ZARJA -THE DAWN ^7as URADNO GLASILO OFFICIAL PUBLICATION SLOVENSKE ZENSKE ZVEZE V AMERIKI___________________SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA_______ NUMBER 11-12 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 1996 VOLUME 68 Branch #2, Chicago, Illinois Diamond Jubilee 1926-1996 Flag Blessings in the 40’s were important times for our fraternal organizations because flags were used for church and community events to identify the groups participating. In Chicago, Br. 2 held their Blessing with a large number of members and families attending, prominent of whom were the “Godparents” of the Flag, well-known local business people, Mr. & Mrs. Anton Tomazin (center front). In this issue we begin the history of Br. 2 that will recount 70 years distinctive dedication. And, Happy 70th Anniversary to all our members on Founding Day, December 19th! ZARJA - THE DAWN (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 NO. 11-12 NOV.-DEC., 1996 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress VOL. 68 Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze. Published eight times per year - osemkrat 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 Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do 1. v mesecu. Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 Telephone: (773) 548-8878 NOTICE! The cancellation of the November issue of ZARJA was necessitated by a financial emergency. Our Home Office Building in Joliet, Illinois will be having some much needed and costly repairs. A new furnace, or complete overhaul of the old furnace is the No. 1 priority, and a committee will soon consider the estimates and select the lowest and most reliable bidding contractors. Other vital repairs will be done on an as needed schedule, and as our financial picture is made entirely clear. Jean Korsman, National President CHRISTMAS PARTIES & ANNUAL MEETINGS Dec. 3 Br. 14, Euclid, OH Br. 40, Lorain, OH Br. 56, Hibbing, MN Dec. 5 Br. 38, Chisholm, MN Br. 13, San Francisco, CA Dec. 7 Br. 2, Chicago, Children’s Party Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Br. 105, Detroit, MI Dec. 8 Br. 22, Bradley, IL Br. 33, Duluth, MN Br. 35, Aurora, MN Br. 50, Cleveland, OH Dec. 14 Br. 16, Chicago, IL Br. 42, Euclid, OH Dec. 15 Sheboygan, WI Dec. 17 Br. 20, Joliet, IL Dec. 18 Br. 54, Warren, OH Dec. 19 Br. 2, Chicago, IL HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN NOVEMBER National Officers: Nov. 11 - Mary Muller, Past Nat’l Pres., Oakbrook, IL Nov. 16 - Marion Marolt, Past Nat’l Auditor, West Allis, WI Presidents: Nov. 5 -Nov. 7 -Nov. 9 -Nov. 13 -Nov. 13 -Nov. 13 -Nov. 20 -Nov. 23 -Nov. 28 -Nov. 24 - Secretaries: Nov. 11 Nov. 13 Nov. 15 Nov. 21 Genevieve Grilc, Br. 85, Depue, IL Rose Trombley, Br. 52, Kitzville, MN Beverly Menart, Br. 33, Duluth, MN Josephine Auito, Br. 13, San Fran., CA Antonia Kostelec, Br. 64, Kans. City, KS Linda Kusar-Fischer, Br. 108, VA Beach, VA Marcella Zupec, Br. 23, Ely, MN Steffie Segulin, Br. 10, Cleveland, OH Valeria Carlson, Br. 56, Hibbing, MN Josephine Kassen, Br. 54, Warren, OH Regina Cop, Br. 64, Kansas City, KS Dorothy Jamnik, Br. 35, Aurora, MN Dolores Hennelly, Br. 95, So. Chicago, IL Josephine Jacobs, Br. 106, Meadowlands, PA HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN DECEMBER National Officer: Dec. 29 - Marge Church, Nat’l Auditor, Macedonia, OH Presidents: Dec. 28 - Agnes Tomazin, Br. 40, Lorain, OH Dec. 31 - Josephine Kapla, Br. 81, Keewatin, MN Dec. 31 - Frances Vidmar, Br. 83, Crosby, MN Secretaries: Dec. 15 - Victoria Volk, Br. 99, Elmhurst, IL HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN JANUARY National Officers: Jan. 6 - Irene Odorizzi, Cultural Heritage Officer, Re-ston, VA Jan. 15 - Evelyn Majercik, Nat’l Secretary, Bedford, OH Presidents: Jan. 2 - Kay Yuratovac, Br. 73, Warrensville, OH Jan. 11 - Frances Correll, Br. 93, Brooklyn, NY Secretaries: Jan. 5 - Mary Jackovich, Br. 28, Calumet, MI Jan. 12 - Mary Krall, Br. 37, Greaney, MN JEAN KORSMAN, NATIONAL PRESIDENT A Closing the year with achievement •'VT So much has happened since my last letter! My husband and I had an unforgettable trip to Finland where we were able to trace his father’s family back the 1700’s up to now; (a story to follow in a later issue of the ZARJA Heritage Page.) ... Our bountiful potato harvest is completed, hay and straw delivered or stored under cover, the grain combined, newly seeded Winter Rye is emerging and we are prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store for us in the way of a Minnesota Winter. In September and October four of our seven SWU Regional Conventions were concluded. Minnesota’s Zveza Day took place on September 8, hosted by Aurora, MN, Branch 35, President Charlotte Laurich presiding. I had been invited to speak on a subject dear to my heart; Mrs. Prisland’s History and the beginning of our SWU 70 years ago. Branch 1, Sheboygan, Wisconsin also had invited me to their Anniversary Celebration and Convention Festivities (on the same day) but sadly I was unable to be there in person. What great pride they must feel having the distinction of being Branch 1, our founding Branch. State President Joan Yaklich presided over the meeting, and they were fortunate to have Hermine Dicke, our founder’s daughter, and her niece Mary Turvey in attendance. That personal family involvement is what we all desire from our Zveze, the glue that has held us all together for 70 years; and God willing, many more. The lllinois-Indiana elected President had accepted a job transfer to England, so the Vice President, Bonnie Prokup of Streamwood, Illinois, was my hostess for four days as I visited Chicago in October. There I endeavored to assist her in the various aspects and correct procedures of her challenging new position. This remarkable and busy young mother of two little girls also works out, takes care of her husband and home, and is an enthusiastic member of Branch No. 24 in La Salle. She drove me to the Home Office in Joliet, where she got her first look at the Heritage Museum, while I made an inspection of the building, including the apartment and basement in order to get some perspective on upcoming needed repairs. Corinne Leskovar was my taxi, chauffeur and tour guide of Chicago, including dinner where I sampled some delectable Greek lamb chops, followed by Taramisu for dessert. We ended our evening at the Auditorium Theatre enjoying a musical production of showboat. On Monday, as my plane didn’t leave until 5 p.m., we also had time for a brief visit to the law office of Corinne’s daughter, Miriam Burkland who presented us with tickets to the Chicago Art Institute, just across the street, where we enjoyed lunch and viewed an exhibition of the French Impressionist, Edgar Degas. The main business of the trip, the lllinois-Indiana Convention and Banquet, was well planned down to the smallest detail, with the meeting proceeding in a timely fashion. The delegates selected a new Vice President, Genevieve Buol. She will work well with State President Prokup to insure the continued progress of the lllinois-Indiana Region. I was able to accomplish my official business and at the same time I was honored to be the recipient of the warm and gracious hospitality of Branch 2 and all of my new friends in Illinois! The Ohio-Michigan Convention was hosted by Branch 14, Euclid, Ohio, President Olga Dorchak presiding. This active Region can boast of having the National Vice President, the National Secretary, two Auditors, all from Ohio, and the Women’s Activities Director from Michigan!! So the National Board was well represented, allowing much to be accomplished and many procedures explained under these ideal circumstances. I am hoping to visit each Region once during my term of office. All the correspondence received so far indicates the need for the National President to resume these visits, as in the past. We all benefit when local concerns are addressed person to person at these meetings. I also hope to encourage the other Regions to explore the possibility of resuming or initiating these annual Conventions. Your National Board of Directors will hold their annual meeting in Joliet in March. I would appreciate your letters with questions and suggestions for improving our agenda for the next three years and for the continuing success in the future of our Slovenian Women’s Union. I hope your Thanksgiving Holiday was enjoyed with family and friends; We all have so much to be thankful for! My sincere wish is that you will have an abundance of Christs’ Blessings on HIS Birthday, Christmas Day, and a Healthy and Happy New Year. NATIONAL SECRETARY - - KEEPING UP-TO-DATE A very Happy New Year to all of you. We receive it with hope, with anticipation and a sprinkling of wonder. As we review the year that has passed, we all can pick out the good and the bad. Let’s start 1997 on a positive note. We have come through this far, and our future still remains on the bright side. With the start of 1997, the first item to call to your attention is DUES. We ask your cooperation in this matter. The biggest problem we had to conquer last year was dealing with all the payments that were sent in before the invoicing was even put into place. Many members placed the blame on the new system when they did not receive a bill early in the year. The system had nothing to do with it; we were bombarded by payments that were sent in without any place to put them. Added to that factor was that the proper amounts were not sent in, members did not read/heed that information printed in ZARJA. In order to make things move smoothly in 1997, please remember the following: 1) DO NOT SEND IN PAYMENT until you receive an invoice. 2) Always return the TOP PORTION of you statement with your payment. Putting your branch number and certificate number on your check will also help. If you are including payment for another member, please include their name. 3) DO NOT SEND IN THE (SMALL) PAYMENT BOOKLETS. These are obsolete, we do not use them anymore. 4) DO NOT SEND CASH. 5) If any information on your invoice is incorrect, please notate the correction and we will correct your record. 6) Please, do not include donations to any of our other projects, i.e., ZARJA, Scholarship, Heritage, with your payments. These donations must be made by separate check. 7) All mail should be forwarded to: Slovenian Women’s Union P.O. Box 46539 Bedford, Ohio 44146 An apology, and an explanation, is due to a few of you who received “Past Due” notices for your 1996 dues. We apologize for not checking into payments received prior to the computer being put into use. Many, many of the members sent in their payments before being billed. This created a dilemma that was handled in the easiest way possible, that is, to cash the checks and make entries later. This eliminated the task of returning each and every check (and there was hundreds of dollars involved.) We did attempt to match up checks with membership lists (not yet entered in The 1995 National Convention in San Francisco, California, adopted the following schedule for annual membership assessments, effective January, 1996: If you are an “A” member, under 75 years of age, your dues are $12.00 If you are an “A” member, over 75 years of age, your dues are $8.00. If you are a “B” member, under 75 years of age, your dues are $15.00. If you are a “B” member, over 75 years of age, your dues are $10.00. If you are a Social member, your dues are $15.00. Junior members pay $4.00. If you will reach the age of 75 this year, 1997, you will be billed for the reduced rate. If a Junior turns 18 during the year, the increased rate will be considered. SECRETARIES: It would be appreciated if you would review your records and give us an accounting of members turning 75 during the year, and Juniors turning 18. The computer will only tell us what we tell it. Your cooperation in this phase if billing will be appreciated. the computer) but as notes came in inquiring about checks not being cancelled, concern over lost checks, etc., we photocopied each check, deposited them, and time has not permitted this phase of the update. Please bear with us. It is depressing to read some of the notes that criticize our program without full knowledge of how the whole system works. We have come a very long way under the new setup, but we still have a distance to go. If you have not paid your dues for 1996, more past due notices went out in November, keeping with the fact that all dues should have been paid much earlier in the year. We accept the blame for the delay in sending out invoices. However, it would seem that from all of the notes and calls received as to when the invoices would be sent, there should not have been any late payments. It always intrigued us as to the number of inquiries, after hearing so many secretaries report that members just would not pay on time. Any unpaid dues at the end of the year will be called to the attention of the secretaries. Cancellations will result from non-payment after that notification. I would like to introduce you to my right hand, my assistant here in Ohio. Without her I would be so bogged down that the Lord only knows what my situation would be. Delores Mueller is a member of Branch No. 73. Many of you will remember her best as the wife of the buttonbox player at the San Francisco Convention. Maybe you remember her husband (Bob), and never noticed her, but she was there. Delores is the midnight dispatcher for a neighbor- 70 YEARS-DECEMBER 19,1926-1996 It began with this Lady, First Lady, Marie Prisland Founder of Slovenian Women's Union Mrs. Marie Prisland was the Founder of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America and an officer and member of many Slovenian and community organizations to which she devoted her time, talent and integrity. So many of our members are younger and many not remember that she instituted this organization in 1926. She was bom on June 21, 1881 at Rečica ob Savinji, a very beautiful little town nestled in the highlands of Slovenia. She passed away on September 13, 1979 at Sheboygan, Wisconsin where she made her home for more than 80 years. Mrs. Prisland was an early immigrant to the United States, arriving in her new home at Sheboygan as a 15 year old girl. There she began her study of the language and citizenship very earnestly, becoming one of the first in the community to become a citizen of the United States. She ing police department. Our friendship began years ago as we listened to each other on the radio. She works until 8 a.m. and comes directly to my home. Her computer experience was a bonus for me. She does all the posting of checks and as time permits, works on the updates regarding beneficiaries, etc. The job does not end there for her. When she leaves, she takes with her any job that can be done at her leisure. I might also add that many times when Delores leaves here, her day is just beginning because like so many of us she has a three year old grandson to attend to while “mommy” works (two daughters are also police dispatchers). We owe her a debt of gratitude for her continued interest and concern for SWU. Publicly, I say thank you. One question that is expressed so often comes from our older members, especially those over 80 years of age. They inquire as to why they are still paying dues, that (other) was a bom leader and co-founded parish and fraternal societies such as Sheboygan’s Queen of Mary Society of KSKJ and Christian Mother’s Society of Sts. Cyril & Methodius. She was the first woman to be elected National Vice President of the American Slovenian Catholic Union in 1924. It was not long afterward that she fulfilled her dream, that of successfully instituting the first organization of Slovenian women in the U.S., the Slovenian Women’s Union. It was her wish to gather together Slovenian women of all areas into a unified force by which to retain their pride in the highest ideals by which Slovenian women, live, then as now. She was a prolific writer, author of the book “From Slovenia to America” and countless articles in Slovenian and English language publications. The S.W.U. monthly publication, ZARJA-The Dawn, was her most beloved medium for literary contributions. She was most proud to have been recognized with the Order of St. Sava given her in 1939 by the King of Yugoslavia. During World War II she was cited by President Truman for her energetic Red Cross work. The city of Sheboygan gave her a community service award and she was honored numerous times by the Slovenian Women’s Union. The Slovenian American Radio Club of Chicago named her “Woman of the Year” in 1966. Her husband, John, preceeded her in death in 1975; they celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary in 1973. She is survived by a son, Theodore of Highland Park, Illinois, two daughters, Mrs. Robert (Margaret Fischer of Sheboygan and Mrs. Robert (Hermine) Dicke of Madison, Wis. 11 gradchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Continuing in her footsteps: Hermine and Bob Dicke’s daughter Kathy Gorton loves the Slovenian folksongs she learned from her grandmother and includes them in her professional repertoire; her sister, Mary has recently legally changed her surname and is now Mary Prisland; granddaughter, Mary Turvey, daughter of long-time secretary of Br. 1, Sheboygan, Margaret Fischer has just been named as the SWU Scholarship Fund Director, succeeding her aunt, Hermine Dicke who managed the Fund from 1963 to 1995 following her mother, Marie, who instituted the Scholarship and Benefit Fund in 1943. lodges give them free dues once they reached 80 years. It has been my firm belief, and I have shared it with many, that something has to be done in this respect. However, it will take action at the next National Convention to change our policy of operation. Please follow our intentions in ZARJA. The subject will be discussed at the next Board of Directors meeting and will certainly be a topic on the agenda in 1999. Until that time, older members should check with their branch secretaries to see that policy they have within the branch with regards to payment of dues for 80 year old members. If everyone follows these simple instructions, 1997 will start and end on a positive note, and we will have smooth sailing. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to a prosperous year for our organization. Respectfully, Evelyn Majercik, National Secretary Irene M. Odorizzi, Heritage Director HISTORY OF S.W.U. BRANCHES Looking Back to the Future BRANCH #2, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS DIAMOND JUBILEE 1926-1996 On this momentous occasion, the Diamond Jubilee of the Slovenian Women's Union and Branch 2, it gives me great pleasure to honor past officers and members of the branch for establishing such a large, active membership and to congratulate those presently active for continuing the efforts of past organizers and members. Branch 2 is respected as one of the largest, most active and prestigious branches of the SWU. When you read of the numerous activities of Branch 2 in the next few issues and reminisce about their past accomplishments please keep in mind that Jean Železnikar, historian for Branch #2, spent many hours researching the information in the minutes of each meeting, in ZARJA and at the Heritage Museum in Joliet. I realize her dedication in completing this project because on four different occasions she sent me a package of computer printouts and photos which I edited and organized for publication. The Branch #2 history project has been a tremendous task for Jean who was assisted by Sophie Železnikar Bogolin. Branch #2, please remember Jean’s and Sophie’s time and effort with a big thank-you and to all branches with published histories, please do the same for your historian. Let them know they are very special. Part I “Getting Started” Seventy years ago, on October 30, 1926, a very brave and aspiring young immigrant lady from Slovenia realized the dream of a lifetime by organizing Slovenian immigrant women from various Slovenian communities throughout the United States into a burial insurance organization, namely, the Slovenska Zenska Zveza or the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. This amazing organizer was Marie Pris-land of Sheboygan, Wisconsin. She had notified Slovenian immigrant women of her intent by publishing a letter, which could be considered a “call to arms,” and which was published in the Glasilo, a newspaper printed under the auspices of the K.S.K.J. Mrs. Prisland outlined her goals in that letter, stating that the sole purpose of the organization would be to uplift the Slovenian women in America. It would be an organization where the women could broaden their outlook on life, educate themselves domestically and socially, and adapt themselves as better citizens of the U.S. while still maintaining their Slovenian spirit in heart. The time was right and the ladies responded to her letter so overwhelmingly that by October 1926, a number of ladies had met and the National Officers elected: President: Marie Prisland, Sheboygan, Wisconsin; Vice President: Mary Glavan, Cleveland, Ohio, Secretary: Julie Gottlieb, Chicago; Treasurer: Matilda Duller, Chicago; Auditors: Mary Vidmar, Indianapolis, Indiana, Margaret Ritonia, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rose Smole, Bradley, Illinois; Publishing Committee: Frances Jazbec, Chicago; S.W.U. HISTORY v —J) Gl. uradnice in delegatinje prve konvencije, ki se je vršila v Chicago v leto 1927 OFFICERS AND DELEGATES, 1ST NAT’L CONVENTION - 1927 Branch 2 officers who attended the first National Convention of SWU, one year after the organization was founded, were: Matilda Duller, Nat’l Treas. (left seated), Frances Jazbec, Editor (next left), Katie Triller, Vice-Pres., who later transferred to Br. 16 (right), Julia Gottlieb, Nat’l Secretary (left of Triller) and Br. 2 Delegates: Mary Kobal (2nd row, 2nd from left), Mary Puhek (2nd row, and from right). Marie Prisland, Sheboygan; Barbara Kramer, San Francisco; Pauline Osolin, Forest City, Pennsylvania, Mary Planton, Oregon City, Oregon; Advisors, Margaret Kozjan, Pueblo, Colorado, Frances Zagar, Barberton, Ohio, Matilda Roberts, Eveleth, Minnesota, Barbara Kramer, San Francisco, California, Mary Darovec, Cleveland, Ohio. There were two groups, one in Mrs. Prisland’s hometown of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and the other in Chicago, Illinois, ready to enroll members in this fledgling organization. The State of Illinois was willing to issue a charter to this burial insurance organization, however, the Sheboygan branch assumed the title of Branch 1, in honor of the founder, Marie Prisland, and the Chicago ladies were formed as Branch 2. By the end of the year Branch 3 in Pueblo, Colorado and Branch 4 in Oregon City, Oregon, were part of the Slovenian Women’s Union. The formal date of the charter coincides with the date when Branch 2 was formally organized, Dec. 19, 1926, at St. Stephen’s Church Hall. From then on the members met monthly at the church hall overcoming many obstacles and resolving many problems. Dues was 25 cents each month. The first officers of Branch 2 were: President: Julija Gottlieb; Secretary: Josephine Racic; Treasurer: Matilda Duller. In 1927, Branch 2 held election of officers at the December meeting and the following ladies were elected: President: Fannie Jazbec; Secretary: Agnes Augustin; Treasurer: Jennie Stayer. The membership of Branch 2 was comprised mostly of young immigrant married women with families. It was difficult for them to be away from their homes but they still found time to be active with Church activities. The Branch continued to meet in St. Stephen’s Hall. Mrs. Josephine Racic was the delegate to the convention held by the National Council of Catholic Women. She brought back information of happenings throughout America and reported what other women were doing in their homes and churches throughout the United States. JUVENILE DEPARTMENT Branch 2 is credited with establishing the first Juvenile Department of the SŽZ (SWU) in Chicago with 10 members. The purpose of organizing this Juvenile Department was to supervise the girls completing the eighth grade until they could become active members of the Union. The girls elected officers and were under the direction of Mrs. Helen Zakrajšek. President: Margaret Duller; Secretary: Molly Wolkar; Treasurer: Genevieve Piber; Trustees: Mary Schwab and Johanna Staver. S.W.U. HISTORY ■ -J ZGODOVINA PODRUŽNIC S. Ž. ZVEZE PODRUŽNICA ŠT. 2, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Dne 1. decembra 1926, se je v šolskem prostoru fare sv. Štefana zbralo lepo število slovenskih žena in deklet iz Chicaga in okolice, da_se pomenijo glede nove organizacije in ustaov*it}-ve lastne podružnice. Ko se jim je pojasnil namen nove ženske organizacije, so se vse navzoče izrazile, da se ustanovi podružnica, katera se pozneje priklopi k ženski organizaciji. Vpisalo se je takoj 35 žena in deklet kot ustanoviteljice nove podružnice. Odbor je bil izvoljen sledeči: — Predsednica Fannie Jazbec, podpredsednica Ma- ry Kobal, tajnica Agnes Augustin, blagajničarka Jennie Stayer, zapisnikarica Julia Gottlieb; nadzornice: Alva Jerin in Theresa Meditz. Podružnico je ustanovila Mrs. Julia Gottlieb. Članice št. 2, ki so bile izvoljene v prvi glavni odbor, so sledeče: glavna predsednica Kattie Triller, glavna tajnica Julia Gottlieb, glavna blagajničarka Mathilda Duller, glavna nadzornica Ljudmila Kušar, urednica Fannie Jazbec. Na tretji konvenciji je bila izvoljena za gl. tajnico Josephine Račič in za glavno blagajničarko Mary Tomažin in ponovno na 4. In 1951, officers were (standing left to right): Mrs. Frances Zibert, second auditor; Mary Kovacic, recording secretary; Clara Foys, vice-president; Elizabeth Zefran, first auditor; Mae Fabian, sergeant at arms; Mary Polden, third auditor. Seated: Lillian Kozak, secretary; Josephine Železnikar, president; Mary Tomazin, treasurer. Matilda Duller Frances Jazbec First Nat’I Treasurer First Editor Josephine Recic Nat’I Secretary Julia Gottlieb Organizer of Br. 2, First Nat’l Secretary --------------- S.W.U. HISTORY ---------------- L. . — . — -J BOWLING WAS SYNONYMOUS WITH CHICAGO! ZEFRAN FUNERAL HOME WINNERS in 1950 Liz Zefran, Capt., Dorothy Banich, Elsie Ovnik, Jennie Kovacic and Lil Putzell were outstanding bowlers in their time. Branch 2 wanted the young girls to become involved in SWU sponsored activities. Member, Mrs. Terselich, suggested that since St. Stephen’s School had bowling alleys, why not organize a bowling team? So, on Monday, Oct. 14, 1929, Branch 2 held their monthly meeting and organized their first Bowling Team. Most of the girls had never before thrown a bowling ball. They met weekly at St. Stephen’s School at 22nd Place and Lincoln Streets. The first bowling team participants were: Mici Koporc, Josephine Racic, Anna Kahover, Christine Zefran and Anna Kosmach. At the December meeting a Christmas party was held for the young ladies of the bowling teams and the junior members. Gifts were exchanged and snacks were supplied by the talented Branch 2 cooks. 1930 brought many additional members who wished to participate in all the activities of the SWU members. Sheboygan, Wisconsin later followed and organized a bowling team with the first tournament being held in Chicago at St. Stephen’s on March 9, 1930. GIRL SCOUT TROOP The year was 1929, and younger girls entered the branch. These junior members were formed into a Girl Scout troup which met once a week. One of the many fun things these scouts enjoyed was a Halloween party where all the juniors came in funny costumes. Prizes were offered with Grace Puklovitz winning first prize, a green Girl Scout handbook. Second prize was awarded to Elizabeth Perse. It was also noted in the minutes that Albina Kaucic and Albina Zeman were attired as funny gypsies. The scouts enjoyed refreshments which were donated by Mrs. Fabian and Mrs. Kremesec. The Zefran team won the 1965 Bowling Tournament held in Minnesota: Shirley Melissa, Elsie Statkus, Ann Vucko, Lil Putzell and Elsie Klasovity. Bowling was one of the main attractions for new, young members. The Chicago Bowling Trophy went to the Parkview Laundry Bowling Team for three consecutive years. 1952-53 season ended at a gala banquet held at Tomazin’s Hall - girls seen here, standing: Mae Kregul, Jo Tomse, Ann Kregul; in front: Toni Brandt, Capt., and Dolores Ovnik. S.W.U. HISTORY ^ ■» MUSIC REIGNED WITH THE BRANCH 2 CHORAL CLUB Front row: Gizella Haklin, Lil Kozek, Justine Cieblinski, Ann Cham, Director, Josephine Železnikar, Sophie Bogolin, Alvie Jerin; 2nd row: Barb Wencel, Mary Kovacic, Mary Koren, Ann Strupeck, Mary Pretnar, Mary Garbais, Agnes Marazzo, Frances Zibert, Paula Ozbolt, Mary Polden; 3rd row: Elizabeth Zefran, Ann Zorko, Julie Zeibert, Millie Paisoli, Lil Putzell, Ann Zagar, Mary Šinkovec, Jennie Rojc, Mary Sutolovich, Julia Pavlin. (Photo 1942) Josephine Železnikar A long-time president of Br. 2 in the 30’s and 40’s, Josephine was best-known for her love of the Choral Club which she organized. She was the beloved Nat’I Treasurer from 1952 to 1970 and was very active in establishing the Home Office at their Chicago location in the year 1952. Branch 2 enjoyed seventeen years of harmony with the organization of the choral group. It all began in August of 1941, when Josephine Železnikar, President of Branch 2 suggested that the branch start a choral group. President Železnikar along with other members had been singing in the church choir but felt by starting their own group they could present concerts which would bring money into the Zveza treasury while simultaneously uniting the Slovenian people. Mrs. Železnikar contacted the pastor of St. Stephen Church about using the parish facilities. After permission was received her suggestion was discussed and approved at the September Zveza meeting. It was decided that $25.00 would be given to the parish for rehearsal expenses. On October 16, 1941, ten members excitedly began the weekly practice in preparation for a concert. Later, the group increased as other members heard about how much fun the group was having at the rehearsals. Josephine Železnikar possessed a lovely singing voice and her favorite songs were those she learned from her homeland, the village of “Loški Potok.” These songs, as well as those from other regions of Slovenia, were added to the repertoire. One of the Sisters of St. Stephen School assisted with the music. Mrs. Anna Cham, an accomplished violinst who performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, became the group’s first director. Her musical knowledge and direction was a tremendous help in bringing about a beautiful melodious sound because the voices blended beyond the singers’ expectations. In August 1942, already famous within the Slovenian community, the 20 choraleers presented their first Concert and Dance at St. Stephen’s School Auditorium. The hall was packed and everyone was surprised and happy to hear the beautiful voices rendering the old Slovenian folksongs they loved so well. The concerts that followed were always well attended and many featured soloists were well-received. Dancing followed each concert and the music was supplied by lively bands, namely, those of Pete Snyder, S.W.U. HISTORY Top: Minstral Show put on by the Choral Club of Br. 2 in 1947 was a “first” for the community - and Zveza! Below: A “Gay 90’s Revue” was another presentation that the Choral Club members put on to the delight of singers and audience! Frankie Kovacic, Billy Reich, the Chet Edwards Trio or Jimmy Bovdik and the Melody Makers. In 1947, the group extended themselves to include, with the concert a Minstrel Show, written by Mr. and Mrs. R. Schlacta. It was performed at St. Stephen’s Auditorium under the untiring direction of Constance Moline, but was so successful that the group was invited to perform the following month for the Slovenian community in Cleveland. Again, an outstanding hit, and they returned to Cleveland once again for another performance. Part of the production was comedy act entitled, “Half in Pol” (Half and Half or Pol in Pol) which was written and acted by Frances Zibert and Steffie Osterman. The skit was written using the common language spoken by the immigrants, half Slovenian and half American. It was so unique and realistic to what was experienced in many Slovenian-American households of the day, that the comedy duo “brought the house down” with laughter and applause. Thereafter, tbe pair of Zibert and Osterman was in demand for many Slovenian functions. During the late 40s and 50s, the ladies added a 30-45 minute musical show following the concert. One of the most memorable was, “Show Boat,” with Sophie Železnikar Bogolin as Capt. Andy. The group also presented their version of the hills country in the show, “Them Dar Hills” Another hit, “A Day In The Park,” featured Fanny Zibert in her unforgetable political speech from the park podium and Josephine Železnikar riding on stage on a tricycle as a candy and ice-cream vendor. One of the most remembered concerts was the, “Gay Ninety Revue,” in which every member participated in a costume of the era. Each spring the community could expect a concert alone or in conjunction with the France Prešern Singers. In the fall, a musical, a concert and dance was scheduled. The Choral Club traveled to many places and were always well received. When the Slovenian Radio Program began broadcasting in Gary, Indiana in 1950, the group was invited to appear “live” and sang a selection of Slovenian songs directly over the air. When Ana Cham moved to Colorado they could not find a replacement director, however, Dr. Alfred Fishinger, an accomplished pianist and teacher of piano who had joined NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 1996 19 S.W.U. HISTORY v —J) the Choral Club as an accompanist, remained with the singers as director until they disbanded in 1958. Mary Garbais acted as President of the Choral Club for many years and Viola Strupeck, as Secretary. Viola also participated as writer and director of the group’s many shows as well as performed in the concerts. Her excellent memory and total participation became the source of the information concerning the Choral Club. To this day, Branch 2 can thank Josephine Železnikar for having the foresight to organize the singing group which experienced many good times together, challenging concerts, enduring friendships and cherished memories. The lovely voices have been preserved for posterity in a collector’s item: a phonograph record, which is evidence of a fruitful musical venture. By 1931, two years after Branch 2 was formed, membership reached the amazing number of 116 members. The first member to pass to her eternal reward was Mary Laurich on April 2, 1930. 1932 - Mrs. Mary Tomazin, was chairman for the spring dance which was held at Tomazin’s Tavern. It was such a great success that the members voted that they would have two dances each year. 1933 - The first bake sale held in March, was entitled “DOMAČA ZABAVA,” and chairman of the event was Mamie Fabian, kuharica (Cook). The other committee members were: Mrs. Martin Kremesec, Potica, Josephine Racic, Flancate, Mrs. Primožič, Rdeči Caj, Mrs. Jelencic, Kava, Mrs. Stayer, Miscellaneous groceries, Mary Tomazin & Lil Kozek, Tickets. It was at this affair that Mrs. Clara Foys became a member. A banquet was held in Westmont at the “Gostilna Finžgarjič,” a neighborhood tavern owned by member Mary Kobal and her husband. Since the location was “out in the country” the members were excited to be out in the fresh air during the summer. Fifty members attended and many participated in the “Balina,” tournaments (wooden ball, “bocce”, bowling.) The ever-popular Bunco Party (dice game) was held in the school hall in October. Completing the year 1933 was the election of officers for the coming year: President: Theresa Chemich; Vice President: Frances Vrecik; Secretary: Anna Frank; Treasurer: Mary Tomazin; Recording Secretary: Caroline Pieman; Sentinel: Mary Mladic; Auditors: Lil Kozek, Anna Kosmach Jr., Josephine Racic. 1934 - The Branch started off the year with a dance at St. Stephen’s Hall. Two bands entertained at what became the “event of the year.” The ladies who assumed responsibility for the event were: Chairpersons: Mary Tomazin and Clara Foys; Kitchen Committee: Mary Kovacic, Mary Kobal, Mamie Fabian. MEMBERS OF BR. 2 WHO HAVE SERVED IN NATIONAL OFFICE: 1929 1929-33 1929-33 1933-39 1933-39 1939-43 1952-55 1943-46 1946-52 1952-70 1952-70 Treasurer Editor Secretary Secretary Treasurer Youth Committee Youth and Recreation Auditor Auditor Treasurer Secretary (Mrs. Novak was National President 1946-52 and Editor1933-52 as a member of Cleveland Branch 25.) Matilda Duller Frances JazJbec Julia Gottlieb Josephine Racic Mary Tomazin Lillian Kozek Paula Ozbolt Josephine Železnikar Albina Novak 1952- Corinne Leskovar Editor 1955-70 Elizabeth Zefran Sports Commitee 1961-73 Women’s Activities 1967-70 State President 1970-76 Treasurer 1958-61 Mary Muller State President 1979-87 President 1970-76 Franceska Humar Secretary 1976-79 Agnes Gaber Vice President 1976-79 AnnVucko State President 1976-79 Lillian Putzel Sports Committee 1987-95 Frances Morison Women’s Activities From the Chicago parish of St. Stephen’s two Franciscan Fathers, Pastors, served as Spiritual Advisors of Zveza, namely, Fr. Alexander Urankar, OFM 1952-58 and Fr. Claude Okorn, OFM 1958-80. The National Headquarters was located in Chicago in the beginning until 1939 and again from 1952 until 1976. A Card Party was held in March for the benefit of the canonization of of Bishop Baraga. The event was open to everyone and the profit was donated to the Baraga cause. At the December election the officers were reinstated for another year. 1935 - On January 10th, a dance was held at St. Stephen’s Hall and was such a success previously that everyone was anticipating this event. The money raised from the event was given to the church to help pay their expenses. f- — ' S.W.U. HISTORY v J) Frances Zibert was one of the most vital and competent members of Br. 2. Her smiling face and happy nature always made other members feel cheerful. Fani’s kitchen work was also exemplary and she helped at almost every wedding and banquet held at St. Stephen’s parish. Elections held were held in December and the membership choose the following members to lead them in 1936: President: Anna Strupeck; Vice President: Mary Kre-mesec; Secretary: Lil Kozek; Tresurer: Mary Tomazin; Rec. Secretary: Mary Kovacic. 1937 - A membership campaign was started in March for all SWU branches. The prize was a trip to Washington, D.C. for branches in the eastern section of the country and forthe western branches, a trip to San Francisco, California. New officers for 1937, were President, Frances Sadock; Secretary, Lil Kozek and the other officers remained the same. September found 35 members and Rev. Marinšek on a bus trip to Holy Hill, Wisconsin. The trip was arranged by Caroline Pieman. The bus cost $2.00 per person. After the annual election in which all the officers remained the same, the December meeting centered around the Christmas theme. Each member brought a ten cent gift and a small donation was asked for refreshments: the committee in charge brought the potica. Entertainment was performed by the junior members. It was noted that Rev. Leonard Bogolin was annpointed the new pastor of St. Stephen’s and Marshall Field Department Store, Chicago, introduced a Bride’s Registration Bureau. 1939 - The first Mother’s Day Program was performed on May 8th. There were two short plays, one in Slovenian and the other in English written and performed by the members under the direction of Anna Kukman. The Balina Tournament held in Westmont was rained out for a short duration. During that time the members were invited indoors to the gostilna where they sang songs until they could complete the game. Several of the members were scheduled to leave for their trip to Slovenia. In September, a suggestion was made that an additional 25 cents per month be added to the assessment to increase the treasury and assist in the payment of the expense associated with the 1939 National Convention. October was drama time and the junior members performed a play at St. Stephen’s Hall. The Joliet Branch 20 Drill Team also performed their intricate drill routines. Tickets were 25 cents and the profit was given to the church. Chairmen for the event were Ema Gerbais and Johanna Mladic. The November meeting was set aside for Mary Blaj and Evelyn Fabian who returned from their trip to Slovenia filled with exciting stories about their visit with relatives. They brought many handmade souvenirs and photos. The December election completed the activities for the year: President: Frances Sardoch; Secretary: Lil Kozek; Treasurer: Mary Tomazin. The Franciscan Sisters in Lemont requested that Branch 2 start the fund raiser to collect money for the new home which they intended to build in Lemont. A donation of $25.00 was given and it was decided that more work and money would be needed to complete this task. The National Convention was held in Chicago and during the proceedings, the SWU Home Office was moved to Joliet, Illinois, with the election of the new National Secretary, Josephine Erjavec. There were two pilgrimages held in the month of August. On the first trip, Father Bogolin and 36 members traveled to Holy Hill on the feast of St. Anne. During the trip, the rosary was recited and Marian songs were sung in honor of Our Lady and her mother, St. Anne. The second pilgrimage was to St. Mary’s Seminary in Lemont, where the group could enjoy the replica of beautiful Lake Bled and the Lourdes Grotto. In November, the month of the Holy Saints and Poor Souls, Branch 2 met in Lemont at St. Mary’s Seminary and with the assistance of Victor Mladic, Frank Grill, Frank Polden and John Železnikar, they cleaned the cemetery. Barbecue was later served on the hill to the volunteers. The December meeting began with the election of officers for 1940, followed by the Christmas Party. The officers: President: Josephine Železnikar; Vice President: Pauline Ozbolt; Secretary: Lil Kozek; Treasurer: Mary Tomazin. It was also noted that the new pastor at St. Stephen’s was Rev. Edward Gabrenja. For the Christmas Party each member was allowed to invite a guest. There was a lot of delicious potica and bakery which was under the chairmanship of Mary Poldan. A Christmas program with beautiful Slovenian songs followed the refreshments. Everyone joined the group in singing with the sentimental memories of childhood in Slovenia apparent in everyone. (To be Continued) FOUR $1,000 SWU SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 1997! To be eligible, 1) you must be a high school senior intending to be a full time student at an accredited university or college after graduation, and 2) you must have been a member of the SWU for at least three years prior to graduation. One scholarship can be awarded ever to any one family and only one scholarship can be awarded each year to any one branch. ALL APPLICATIONS ARE TO BE MAILED PRIOR TO MARCH 20, 1997. Applications received beyond that date will be disqualified. The applications are evaluated by the SWU Scholarship Committee based equally on scholastic achievement; school, church, and community activities; SWU participation; and financial need. To avoid partiality, all identifying information is deleted from the material given to the committee members and each applicant is identified by a randomly assigned letter of the alphabet. All applicants are notified by mail of the final decision. If you are awarded a scholarship, one half of the award is paid to you when you submit proof of first semester enrollment at an accredited university or college. The remainder is paid when you submit proof of second semester enrollment. APPLICATION FOR SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION SCHOLARSHIP Name______________________________________________________________________Sex M_____________F. Home Address. Citv State Zin Name of Parent High School Principal School Address. Graduation Date Class Rank GPA College Considered Major SWU Branch Number Years of SWIJ Memhershin Signature Include the following additional material with the application form: __________ One recent 2-1/2” x 3-1/2” photo, black and white or color. __________ Official transcript of high school grades to date. __________ Brief autobiography including school, church, community, SWU activities and personal goals. __________ Statement of financial need. __________ Recommendation from high school principal/teacher/counselor. __________ Recommendation from SWU Branch president/secretary. Send the completed application form and all the requested material to: Mary Turvey, SWU Scholarship Director 52 Oakridge Drive Marquette, Michigan 49855 Current Officers of Br. 50: Mary Maxim, Recording Sec’y., Evelyn Pipoly, Secretary, Ann Tercek, President, Mary Miller, Vice President and Jean Miller, Treasurer. BR. #50 CELEBRATES 65TH ANNIVERSARY DEC. 8TH! The years sure fly by, it was not so long ago that we celebrated our 60th Anniversary and here we are with our 65 th. On December 8th we will have our Christmas Dinner and 65th Anniversary Celebration at the same time. There will be good food, good music, good singing, happy people, a short program, and some surprises too. Our well known Steffie Smolic, a super cook, along with her staff will prepare a delicious meal. This will all take place at 1 o’clock p.m. at the Slovenian Society Home on 20713 Recher Ave., in Euclid, Ohio. Branch 50 has had a lot of history through these years. It was organized in October, 1931 by the late Albina Novak, who was the mother of our ZARJA Editor, Corinne Leskovar at their home on St. Clair and 62nd Street. With 20 ladies at their first meeting, we have grown to 308 Class A & B; 34 Juniors and 42 socials for a total of 383 members, with our Branch being the second largest in the Union. A very dedicated member when the branch organized was the late Josephine Seelye, a super sales lady, who signed up many new members, and was also secretary for many years without compensation as those were depression years. Dedicated and loyal members who have since gone to their Eternal Rest are: Albina Novak, Frances Seitz, Toni Turek, Mary Loushin, Mary Bostian, Ann Dekleva and many, many others. May they all Rest In Peace! We still have 4 charter members with us. They are: Antoinette (Celesnik) Gaeta, Mitzi Bencin, Carole Traven and Sophie Posch, who by the way was the first Br. 50 President and also the first Captain of the Marie Prisland Cadets. Later Frances Seitz and Ernestine Jevec took over. We lost one charter member, Frances Benčin this past year. Br. 50 has sponsored many events and activities these past 65 years, such as dances, years back when admission was 20 or 25c and the orchestra charged only $15.00. Popular were bazaars, bake sales, bowling leagues, mystery trips, card parties, hat parades, comical skits such as the Beatles and Rythmettes. Also we had Cotillion Deb Balls where many girls from Br. 50 participated. The Mother and Woman of the Year honors, the picnics and Christmas Dinners are still very popular today. The Marie Prisland Cadets played a large role throughout the years by participating in parades for lodges, the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, Drill Team Competitions at Euclid Beach park and they marched in many Parades. As of now there are 12 cadets who mostly attend wakes and funerals for our deceased members. Profits from these social events made it possible to donate to various organizations such as: S.W.U. Scholarship Fund; The Heritage Museum; ZARJA-The Dawn Magazine Printing Fund; Slovene Home for the Aged; Mary Mavec Euclid Opportunity School; Bishop Baraga Cause; Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine; the Euclid Library and many others. Yes, we are proud of our S.W.U. and God Bless and reward our late founder, Marie Prisland by His loving care in heaven. We loved her and she is not forgotten! In celebrating our 65th year we will be remembering the past and looking forward to a good future! (We hope you enjoy the historic photos sent with this article.) We are anticipating a large attendance - so early responses will be very much appreciated. For tickets, please call 261-3615. All branches and friends are most welcome. Come join us! Ann J. Tercek, President REMEMBERING THEIR MOTHERS-OF-THE YEAR A few years ago, the members of Br. 50 gathered many of their past Mothers of the Year for a special party at which time the above photo was taken. They are, from left, seated: Marie Beck (’65), Mary Perusek (’74), Mary Petrie (’73), Sophie Zagorc (’62), Beatrice Tome (’70), Victoria Pianecki (’72), Marie Azman (’69); Standing from left: Jean Tomsic (’75), Louise Vovko (’63), Ernestine Jevec (’64), Ann KristofF (’71), Carole Traven (’67), Vi Zak (’76), Mille Pike (’78), Mary Cesnik (’77), Mary Susnik (’68), Agnes Trebar (’61) and Josephine Trunk (’57). Pictures below: Santa visited Br. 50 and guess who he found there? His mom, Ann Cern! Cadets Mary Delost, Ann Tercek and Antonia Turek in a 1974 photo when the Marie Prisland Cadets were parading. MEMBERS-MOTHERS OF THE YEAR FROM 1981 THROUGH 1996 Top left to right, standing: Mary Blatnik (’90), Stella Koporc (’94), Anne Cern (’83), Angela Shine (’92), Mitzie Bencin (’93), Ella Skoda (’84), Jane Berkopec (’85); seated: Ruth Kolenc (’81), Mary Jo Rom (’82), Evelyn Pipoly (’95), Ann Tercek (’91), Dorothy Winter (’96). Sorry that four of our hon-orees are missing from this picture. Bottom: Ladies formed a “Hat Parade” at a meeting in 1992! MARIE PRISLAND CADETS of 1936 as they looked at the 4th National SWU Convention held in Milwaukee, WI. They performed in the drill competition there with other drill teams of the SWU. These uniforms were of blue and white wool with gold braid trimming and were made by Frances Sietz. On this picture are, from left to right, standing: Antoinette Lausche, Rosalia Jerman, Antonia Tanko Turek, Mary Palcic, Frances Seitz, Jean Križman, Frances Konjar Wohlgemuth, Mamie Pershe Marin, Jennie Suhadolnik and Anne Pizem Maver. Seated: Anne Slapnik, Frances Macerol, Molly Martinčič Frank, Alice Sefsick, Mascot Corinne Novak Leskovar, Stella Zabukovec Rupe, Marie Benevol March and Anne Smolick. Captain was Albina Novak. THE CADETS IN 1939 with a new banner and uniforms - after attending the Chisholm Convention. From left to right front row: Agnes Grebenc, Ernestice Perse, Emily Kokal, Justine Marn, Julia Buchar, Josephine Seelye, Mary Gornik, Mary Russ, Ann Smolick, Albina Pozelnik, Ann Pizem, Alice Soucek; seated in front, Mascot Corinne Novak; second row: Carole Kasic, Rosalia Jerman, Lilyan Jud-nich, Josephine Gornik, Mary Palcic, Frances Kure Seitz, Captain, Louise Mlakar, Mamie Perse Marin, Mary Kasic, Jean Oblak and Antonia Tanko Turek. THE CADETS IN 1974 sporting new uniforms they enjoyed wearing. Drill competitions are over now, but the Cadets participate in many branch activities and are always warmly welcomed. From left to right, front row: Antonia Turek, Jean Tomsic, Millie Pike, Hettie Jenko, Mary Champa, Ernestine Jevec, Velma Gricar, Jo Sieworek, Rose Želodec, Mary Cesnik, Vi Zak, Ann Tercek, Mary Delost; top row: Mary Kovelan, Jo Arko, Jane Novak, Pauline Klemenc, Mary Perusek, Rose Petac, Jo Trunk, Dorothy Winter, Sophie Zagorc, A. Kumse and Fran Seitz, Captain. 50 CELEBRATES 65! Top right: 50 YEAR MEMBERS! Ann Winter, Alberta Erzen and Frances Kikel each received a cake of her own! (Middle right): Valentine Queen Stella Koporc with her “Princesses”, Mary Delost, Frances Kikel, Angela Shine, Helen Bonac, Mary Sirna and Ann Hočevar. Pres. Ann Tercek in the background says they’re all good friends! Lower right: Officers at the 1988 Christmas party, Vera Nosan, Reporter, Ann Winter, Recording Sec’y., Ann Tercek, President, Ann Ryavec, Vice-President and Irene Jagodnik, Secretary-Trea-surer. Bottom: Committee members representing Cleveland branches joined Br. 50 officers in planning the 1977 Cotillion Ball, from left to right front: Mary Vorisek, Fran Seitz, Chairman, Mary Bostian Nat’I. Pres, and Ann Tercek (50); behind: Helen Cul-kar (47), Sophie Magayna (10), Mitzi Globokar (14) and Kathy Wallace (47). OPPOSITE PAGE PHOTOS: Top: Members of the “Rhythmettes - singers and dancers from 1983. Middle left: All our Anns of Br. 50 celebrate once a year, left to right, seated: Ann Hočevar, Anne Kristoff and Ann Tercek, standing: Ann Cetina, Ann Lukek, Anne Skebe, Anne Orlikowski, Ann Kelley, Anne Arhar, Ann Zalar, Anne Kronik and Anne Tomsic. 3rd left: Photo taken for a story in Cleveland-Euciid News-Herald by Cecilia Dolgan and shows some happy Anns at their recent party (photo Jeff Forman). Top right: Cilka Dolgan (left) sang for our Mother of the Year, Ella Skoda (center) and Jane Berkopec accompanied Cilka on the piano. Middle right: Here’s Rosemarie Marn who sang to our Mother of the Year Mary Petrick (seated left) which Jean Pike entertained on her accodian. Middle: Slovenian national dress dollmakers Ruth Kolenc (left) and Carole Traven (right.) Lower photo shows the Marie Pris-land honor guards at a Memorial Service. THE BEST! MINNESOTA STATE DAY BRINGS OUT n_________________________________ At Aurora’s 1996 State Day the camera caught our Nat’l and State Officers for a very nice pose, from left, Tory Bobence, past Nat’l President, Jean Korsman, SWU Nat’l President, Charlotte Laurich, Minnesota State President, Anne Orazem, State Vice Pres and Dorothy Jamnik, State Sec’y-Treas. It was a foggy, drizzly morning on Sunday, September 8th, as we started out for Aurora for the Minnesota State Convention. By the time all were gathered, and the meeting convened, the sun came out and it was a beautiful day in many ways. The convention started at 9 a.m. with coffee and doughnuts and registration. Florence Holland, President of Branch 35, welcomed everyone to Aurora for this year’s convention. At 9:45 a.m. the meeting was called to order by State President, Charlotte Laurich. Vice President, Ann Orazem led the group in an opening prayer. National President Jean Korsman, National Treasurer Beverly Menart and Past National President Tory Bobence and the State Officers were presented to the gathering. The minutes of last year’s convention and the treasurer’s report were given by State Secretary, Dorothy Jamnick. A letter from National Secretary Evelyn Majercik was read. She informed us that all invoices are now out and urged all members who have not as yet paid their dues to do so. Members with unpaid dues as of January 1, 1997, will be cancelled. She thanked the social members who have stayed with us despite the raise in their dues. She also thanked all of us for our patience and cooperation with the office she accepted. A lively discussion regarding dues, specifically the $15.00 dues of Social members took place. National president Jean Korsman urged those branches that have not as yet enrolled new members to do so for the 70 years anniversary. It was mentioned that when enrolling new members, if it is in the latter half of the year, it would be beneficial to enroll them as of January 1 st of the following year as dues are not prorated but run from Jan. 1 to Jan. 1. Their membership is effective as of the date they join but their dues must be paid for the whole year. President Laurich reported that the Minnesota Branches’ celebration of the 70th Anniversary held at Iron-world was not as well-attended as she had hoped it would be. The members who did attend had a very good time. Registration desk at the State Convention when Marlys Rabb (left) greeted Bernice Ceglar, Tona Soukup, Anna Hodnik and Dorothy Jamnik. Anna Rose Smolich, a member of Branch 35, who always played the piano for our convention gatherings, was ill this year and could not attend the convention, so the convention gathering sent their “get well” messages and signatures to her. We hope all those good wishes will help speed your recovery. Anna Rose. A motion was made and passed to send a gift to Evelyn Majercik from the Minnesota branches, in appreciation for her efforts in getting out all of the membership invoices. A collection was taken up and $134.50 will be sent to the Heritage Fund from the members attending the Minnesota State Convention. After each branch gave a report on their activities during the past year, the meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m. There were 156 members present at this year’s convention. Raffle tickets were drawn for the strudels, pictures and afghans donated by members of Branch 35. The convention then moved to the Holy Rosary Church for the 12 p.m. Mass. Father John Golobich, who is retired, but graciously agreed to return to Aurora for our mass, officiated. It was a beautiful mass with Slovenian hymns being sung by the church choir. Since it was also the birthdate of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a bouquet of red Carnations was placed at her statue by National President, Jean Korsman, State President, Charlotte Laurich and State Vice President, Ann Orazem. A delicious catered dinner followed in the church social hall. Steve Perpich, with his concertina, put us in a festive mood with his dinner music. We were again welcomed, this time by Mayor Alan Hodnick, son of SWU member, Anna Hodnick. Father Golobich gave the invocation and the benediction, and during the program was presented a strudel by Ann Orazem. He said he was “looking forward to having some potica,” but since we had no potica, Ann gave him the next best thing, the strudel she won in the raffle. After the banquet, State President, Charlotte Laurich gave a brief “pep” talk to the members and National President, Jean Korsman gave the main address of the convention, outlining the life of SWU founder Marie Prisland. She then read a letter stating that plans are in the works for a SWU gathering in Las Vegas next spring. A show of hands indicated a lot of interest by the members present. Before closing the convention, names were drawn for the monetary prizes and the final raffle tickets were drawn. I hope all the members left the convention with renewed spirit and a resolve to work even harder for the Slovenian Women’s Union. Charlotte Laurich, State President Left: Alyssa Hodnik at the mike gets some coaching from her mom before her presentation in honor of Grandparents’ Day; right: Connie Menart with daughter, Jennie, one of the servers. They were good servers and good eaters, too: Jenna Korpela, James and David Wheeler and Ryan and Erik Korpella. In the background are quilts made from recycled materials for the needy and homeless. Junior Members Erik Korpela, Lindsey, Kyle and Janelle Antilla taking a break from their serving chores. Fr. John Golobich, of Holy Rosary Church enjoyed being with us. He is seen here with our Mayor, Alan Hodnik and his wife, Erica, and Secretary, Dorothy Jamnik, extreme right. WISCONSIN REGIONAL CONVENTION Wisconsin Regional Convention and 70th Anniversary was held on September 8, 1996 at St. Cyril and Methodius Church and was hosted by Branch 1 in Sheboygan. The day began with a bus leaving Milwaukee with 44 people at 6:30 a.m. There were also two members present from Willard Br. 102. It was a very warm and humid day. When arriving in Sheboygan we attended Mass at 8:30 a.m. The church was beautifully decorated and the superb singing of the choir was very impressive. There were several wearing Slovenian costumes. Father Fleishman from Sheboygan had the Mass. After Mass we all went downstairs to have breakfast which was delicious, homemade potica, strudel, juice and coffee. The meeting was called to order by Regional President, Joan Yaklich. Introduction of Officers followed. Mary Tur-vey, National Scholarship Chairman and Kathy Schoreder, National Youth Director were present. Ann Konczal of Br. 43 read the minutes from the last convention held in Milwaukee. Kathy Schroeder of Br. 1 took the minutes of this convention. Letters of congratulation were read from Evelyn Majercik, National Secretary, Jean Korsman, National President and Josephine Janezic, President of Branch 43 in Milwaukee. Delegates from Br. 1, 12, 43, and 102 read their questionnaires. Discussions were opened and the main topic was state Conventions every year. The majority are against having one every year because there are not enough younger people to work and the older ones cannot do the work anymore. Also it is very costly. It was discussed at great length and it finally came down to having to State Convention every other year. A motion was made and seconded on this matter. The next State Convention will be in the Fall of 1998 by Br. 12 in Milwaukee. Another topic was on direct billing asking how Secretary’s are to know who has dropped, and if there will be a print out at the end of the year as to who are still members. Most are pleased with direct billing. Also asked when new By-Laws would be out. Also discussed was why National Officers cannot be reimbursed for expenses to come to Regional Conventions. They feel if we are to have Conventions more National Officers should attend. Mary Turvey, National Scholarship Chairman and granddaughter of Marie Prisland then gave a brief talk. Meeting adjourned at 11:20 a.m. We then proceeded by bus to Rupp’s Restaurant where a delicious sit down dinner was served. After dinner, the Master of Ceremonies, Mary Jo Grabner, introduced Hermine Dicke, who in turn read a couple of letters that her mother, Marie Prisland, had written about SWU many years back. We were all glad to see Hermine again and she is looking and doing well. We were then entertained by Kathy and Jim Gorton, who are the daughter and son-in-law of Hermine Dicke. They did a fantastic job with their singing of songs from Sound of Music and many others. They were greatly appreciated by all. We were then entertained by Frank Virant with his accordion and Frances Grabner who lead the sing-along. All the songs were sung in Slvoenian and a great time was had by all. Then the door prizes were called, and soon it was time to leave. Again I would like to give a special thanks to Agnes Grunke, Chairperson of this special event and also to all the Officers and members of Br. 1. Congratulations on a great State Convention. Joan Yaklich, Regional President povede* gAKERy POVOTICA - Authentic Old-World Pastry The perfect holiday gift! Bernice’s hand-makes each loaf from scratch using only the finest ingredients. We ship fresh from our door to yours via UPS. Choose from English Walnut, Cream Cheese or Apple Povotica. Absolutely delicious. Only $15.95 per 24 oz. loaf includes shipping. Call now: 1-800-BERNICE (237-6423) Visa/MC. Bernice’s Old World Bakery, 3744 N. 67th St., Kansas City, KS 66104. SLAVONIC COOKBOOK Slovenakt Jedlo and Pennsylvania Slovak Soul Food by Julianna RomanovA and Pavel Bencko-Maras 137-page booklet of real Carpatho-Rusyn/Slovak/PennsylvaniaSlovak/Mining town everyday and holiday recipe« handed down by Slovak parent* to the authors (in English) Pirohy, Grul’ovniky, Holubky, Pagacy, Pankusky, Pirosky, Gulas, Halusky Na Sucho, Paska C/kUib.l4jpy, Poppy teed rozky (Makovicy), Kolacy, Easter Basket Preparation, Kolbasy, Smoked Karpatsky Ham and Pennsylvania Slovak Soul Food AND MUCH MORE Written in an easy to read, easy to make fashion with a sprinkling or dry humor and related anecdotes. TO GET A COPY. MAIL $10.00 CHECK OR $15 00 CANADIAN CHEQUE (POST PAID) MORRIS PUBUSHERS, 99 STATE ROUTE 149. LAKE GEORGE, N Y. 12845 OR VISA 518-793-3986 Ron Strle Proprietor 5^^ Stefanich's Restaurant / 457 North Scott Street Joliet, Illinois 60432 (815)722-9751 Fax (815) 722-5750 cJ~f £.zltcicj£, CUlA, ^l^LECUl by Irene M. Odorizzi, Heritage Director HERITAGE HEROES There are more Heritage Heroes this month. I’m sure that the members of the Minnesota Branches are happy that they had such a successful Minnesota Day on September 8th. I was thrilled to receive Dorothy Jamnick’s letter, with the very generous check in the amount of $134.50 for the Heritage Fund, collected through the donations of those present. Hvala lepa! Dorothy also sent a copy of their lovely program, “Iz Srca Do Srca” (From Heart to Heart) which listed the program for the event and the menu enjoyed at dinner. The ladies were entertained by Steve Perpich’s dinner music and a few of the members were lucky to receive prizes from the drawing. Kudos to all members for their dedicated interest in Zveza, their hard work, and successful Minnesota Day! Of course, I was also happy to hear that the ladies enjoyed receiving the white chocolate roses, a memento of the SWU 70th Anniversary which I sent for the occasion. It was an interesting project making so many roses and Sabina Bartol, from Branch 103, wrapped them for me. Her son, Michael, our courier, also advised us on the packing of the candy and then delivered the box to the post office. Thanks to Sabina and Michael for their invaluable assistance. On many occasions I have reported about donations from our frequent Heritage Hero, Jo Lustik of Branch 20. This year again, she remembered our fund with a check for $25.00, in memory of her mother and father, Mary and Joseph Vidmar of Joliet, Illinois, who both died many years ago in the month of October. Many, many thanks Jo, for always keeping Heritage in mind. Your generosity is appreciated time and time again. Beverly Menart, National Treasurer, sent $30.00 to the Heritage Fund along with this note: “I am enclosing a check from the sale of the needlepoint items. We had a Regional Meeting in Virginia, MN on May 15th. I took with me (the donated) items you sent and the Branches each bought some to use for raffle, prizes etc. The Minnesota Branches represented were: #33 Duluth, #34, Soudan; #35 Aurora; #38 Chisholm; #39 Biwabik; #56 Hibbing; and #81 Keewatin. We are all happy to help you out with the sale of the items. All of us in Minnesota send our greetings to you and Ken." A hearty thank you to all the Minnesota ladies for their continued support of heritage. You are loved! SLOVENIA ON INTERNET An article written in the Slovenian language is available to members interested in using Internet and in finding out more about Slovenia. The article is 7 pages long and so you need to send an SASE with two stamps. SLOVENIAN PIANIST PERFORMS IN WASHINGTON, DC The Slovenian Ambassador of the Arts, Dubravka Tomšič, performed the works of Beethoven, Scarlatti, Sreboynjak and Rabel at a piano recital on July 24, at the Embassy of Austria-Chancery. The event, co-hosted by the Ambassadors of Austria and of Slovenia, welcomed five hundred guests who enjoyed a stellar performance by Mrs. Tomšič. A reception hosted by Ambassador Ernest Petrič and Mrs. Petrič followed the recital. A brilliant Slovenian pianist, Mme. Tomšič was born in Dubrovnik in 1940, gave her first recital at the age of five and received most of her musical education in New York City where she studied with the famed Arthur Rubinstein for two years before returning to Ljubljana where she presently teaches at the Ljubljana Academy of Music. She has given more than three thousand performances throughout Europe, Australia and Asia appearing as soloist with most of Europe’s principal orchestras and has won numerous prizes. Since 1987, over 40 recordings have been released and have brought Dubravka Tomšič world-wide acclaim and renewed attention in the United States. Mme. Tomšič will tour Australia in November, 1996 and will serve as juror for the Tenth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in May, 1997. She will also appear in concert at Chicago’s famed Orchestra Hall in March, 1997. Dubravka Tomšič first appeared in Chicago as a child-prodigy in the early 1950’s. At that time our SWU Home Office in Chicago was newly established and Albina Novak, then Nat’l Secretary, welcomed Dubravka and her mother on a visit. The famed Slovenian pianist, Dubravka Tomšič is photographed after her recent piano recital in Washington, D.C. (1 to r) Kenneth Odorizzi; SWU Heritage Director, Irene Odorizzi; Pianist, Dubravka Tomšič; First Secretary, Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia, Miklavž Borštnik. nGi GB oo* N ANCESTRAL RECORDS Locating Slovenian records and vital statistics isn’t as challenging a project one might think after a few basic facts are understood. Most Slovenian immigrants gravitated to northern regions of the U.S. from the East Coast through the Midwest to the Rocky Mountains and finally, the West Coast. Their settlements can be traced around forests and mines in the rural or mountainous areas and around factories by the large cities. Some Slovenian communities were formed in places like: California: San Francisco, Fontana, Redlands Colorado: Pueblo, Carson City, Gunnison, Lead-ville, Crested Butte Illinois: Chicago, South Chicago, Joliet, LaSalle, Bradley, Oglesby, Elmhurst, Aurora, Pullman, DePue, Oglesby, Ottawa. Indiana: Indianapolis Kansas: Kansas City Michigan: Detroit, Calumet, Dearborn Minnesota: Duluth, Minneapolis, Ely, Eveleth, Tower, Soudan, Aurora, Greaney, Chisholm, Biwabik, Kitzville, Hibbing, Keewatin, Crosby, Nashwauk, Gilbert, Buhl. Virginia, Bowy-Cole-rain, Iront. Missouri: St. Louis New York: Brooklyn, Ridgewood Ohio: Cleveland, (Collinwood, Nottingham, Newburgh, West Park) Barberton, Euclid, Lorain, Maple Heights, Garfield Heights, Warren Girard, Niles, Fairfort Harbor, Warrensville Heights, Bedford Heights, Noble, Kenmore, Brooklyn, Con-neaut, Struthers, East Palantine, Canton. Oregon: Portland, Oregon City Pennsylvania: Pittsburgh, Steelton, Burgettstown, Johnstown, Bessemer, Strabane, Ambridge, Oak-mont, Caimbrook, West Aliquippa, Braddock, Vandling, Moon Run, Broughton, Bridgeville, Verona, Universal, Meadowlands, Imperial, Forest City Washington: Enumclaw, Valley West Virginia: Clarksburg, Morgantown, Davis Wisconsin: Milwaukee, Sheboygan, West Allis, Willard, Waukegan Wyoming: Rock Springs The immigrants usually settled in neighborhoods which included a Catholic Church founded and patronized by the Slovenians. In these churches, you will find the vital statistics of birth, marriage and death of your forebearers. Slovenian priests at one time were sent to America as missionaries who would administer sacraments to the Slovenian immigrants and eventually establish a church for worship. These parish priests kept excellent church records and this is one of the few resources where Slovenian surnames will not be misspelled. What a refreshing change from port officials and census takers who took it upon themselves to anglicize difficult foreign names. Many Slovenian names were misspelled upon arrival in America. On the other hand, some immigrants wanted to become totally American and changed their names to an easy American one. Along with the Slovenian Catholic Chruch there was also a Slovenian cemetery. It can be quite an experience walking around the old section of one of those burial places and observing the numerous old monuments. In many cases the family plot fully detailed the births and deaths of entire families and in some cases the monument was adorned with a photo. What a genealogical find! Some of the Slovenian fraternal organizations, societies or social clubs founded by immigrants may still have application records or insurance policies, perhaps copies of their newspapers and magazines. The Slovenian Homes or Cultural Centers may have old minute books, photos, program booklets, scrap books or anniversary souvenir booklets etc. still on high shelves covered with dust, ignored through the years and waiting to be discovered. One thing to always bear in mind: if you wish to locate the records of Slovenians then walk in their footsteps through neighborhoods, churches, organizations, institutions and their final resting places. If you can locate their trail, you’ll discover the history they made. Good Luck! DO YOUR CHILDREN KNOW THEIR HERITAGE? BOOKLET AVAILABLE Through the years, I’ve gathered information that may be of assistance to researchers who are interested in tracing their family tree in the U.S. and in Slovenia. Some of this information was previously advertised in the ZARJA and sent upon request but now, all the information has been compiled into one booklet and is available upon request wiht a $10.00 donation to the Heritage Fund. The donation covers the paper, xeroxing, booklet supplies, postage and handling. The many hours taken to compile all this information into one booklet was handled efficiently by Matilda Ausich, Recording Secretary of Branch 103. Her dedication to the many heritage projects which I requested that she undertake through the years is truly appreciated. She has always been a willing, responsible and proficient volunteer. Many thanks, Tillie. Please send your request and check for $10.00 made out to the SWU Heritage Fund to: Irene Odorizzi, SWU Heritage Director 2362 Paddock Lane Reston, VA 20191-2640 GENEALOGY TOUR Salt Lake City, Utah has been designated as the site for a genealogy tour on Feb. 2-9, 1997. This successful educational program helps researchers become acquainted with the famous Family History Library in Salt Lake City and the multitude of genealogical records it contains. The group will visit the Family History Library and also included in the tour will be an orientation, socials and lectures, with the majority of time devoted to hands-on research. The program organizer is Bill R. Linder, author of How To Trace Your Family History (New York, 1978; rev. ed., 1996) and formerly director of central reference of the National Archives in Washington, D.C. For details write to: Bill Linder 4615 9th Street South, Arlington, VA 22204-5922 Slovenian Dignitaries Greeted by the Clintons (White House Photo) Slovenian’s Ambassador to the United States Dr. Ernest Petrie and his lovely wife, Silvestra, are shown in an official White House photo with President and Mrs. Clinton during one of the Ambassador’s recent White House visits. THE AMERICAN FAMILY IMMIGRATION HISTORY CENTER Imagine a place where you can look up the first members of your family to arrive in America. You would discover facts like, when they came, on which ship they sailed, who they married, where they settled. Then imagine adding your own story to a computerized database — the names of your children, your grandchildren, important dates photos or even oral history in your own words. That will be the American Family Immigration History Center on Ellis Island when it is completed. Phase One will concentrate on entering into a computer database the ship’s manifests of passengers through the Port of New York and Ellis Island from 1892-1924. These val- uable documents contain 20 million names, dates, ship records and more. These records will provide a unique and fascinating glimpse into the lives of our ancestors who risked so much in coming to America. The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation will launch another campaign to raise money for the construction of the Family Immigration History Center and they are offering charter membership to donors who contribute before the dedication ceremony. In return for your minimum financial contribution of $25 your name will be placed in the Register of Charter Founders and kept on permanent display for all to see. By contributing to this historical cause, future generations will always know that their history will be there for them to see at Ellis Island. Send your contribution to: The Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Foundation Inc. P.O. Box 1955 New York, NY 10117-1955 Have you ever been to Slovenia? After you read Slovenija Quarterly Magazine you will want to leave immediately! Do not miss this beautiful magazine! You can order a year's subscription now for 30 USD. Send the subscription form and your personal check to: Slovenija Magazine c/o SIM Cankarjeva 1, P.O.Box 169 1001 Ljubljana SLOVENIA Europe Name Street City, State, Postal code Country SCHOLARSHIP FUND REPORT July and August donations: Donor Amount Rosemary Petrich In memory of 530.00 Marge Church Ann Kurylo 5.00 Mr. &Mrs. JohnNoson Ann Oberstar 5.00 Ann & Dorothy Winter Frances Travnik 20.00 SWUBr. 16, Chicago, IL Pauline Klobučar 10.00 Gladys Buck Pauline Klobučar 10.00 SWUBr. 16, Chicago, IL Lena Kafka 10.00 Edna Winters Lena Kafka 10.00 SWUBr. 19, Eveleth, MN Sr. MaryPrimozich 100.00 SWUBr. 16, Chicago, IL Alvina Sreboth 10.00 Angela J. Gruden Steve Majercik 5.00 Rose Ann Ziherl Mary Cesnik 10.00 RoseZuzek JosephZuzek 20.00 AnnJ.Tercek Frank Vidmar 10.00 Ann & Dorothy Winter Mary Cesnik 10.00 Josephine Smith James Zust 10.00 Mary Budas Jean Kendle 40.00 SWUBr. 16, Chicago, IL Palmera Rapick 10.00 Edna Winters Palmera Rapaick 10.00 Gladys Buck Palmera Rapaick 10.00 Good Times, Good Friends, Good Food A unique cookbook in its second printing 200 recipes including Slovenian Favorites A great Christmas Gift. Price—$8.50 plus $2.50 for shipping and handling Address. Jean Križman (member of Branch 50) 381 Pebblebrook Drive Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44094 Tel: (216) 943-9228 September and October 1996 donations: Donor SWU,Br. 59,Burgettstown,PA $25.00 SWU, Br. 89, Oglesby, IL 20.00 Jenny Lou Skul In memory of ZoraVrencur 10.00 Mr. & Mrs. Gene Klainsek ZoraVrencur 20.00 SWU, Br. 23,Ely,MN Margaret Tome 5.00 Josephine Lustick Joseph & Mary Vidmar 25.00 Olga Slapnick Marie Prisland 20.00 JeanE. Paik Frank Rozanc 5.00 SWU,Br. 23,Ely,MN Mary Shiryance 5.00 Jennie Lou Skul Pauline Klobučar 10.00 Mary & Vitko Staut Herbert & Marion Herrick 30.00 Joseph & Mary Milavec Jennie Milavec 25.00 Martha Gunderson Irene Nehring & Oliver Fondie 6.00 Henrietta Bledsoe Ruth Pelch 5.00 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Winters Michael J. Selenik 10.00 SWU, Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA deceased members 25.00 SWU, Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH Jennie Milavec 10.00 Donnell D. Wolf Polly Klobučar 10.00 SWU, Br. 102, Willard. WI Marion Herrick 25.00 Mr. & Mrs. John Taucher Midge Bizjak 5.00 SWU, Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH Jennie Intihar 10.00 Marge Church Jennie Intihar 5.00 SWU, Br. 22, Bradley, IL deceased members 25.00 SWU, Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH Frances Wenckus 10.00 OlgaDorchak Josephine Kassan 10.00 Julie Smith Julie’s Grandparents 15.00 SWU, Br. 73, Wamsvle Hts., OH Betty Bayus 10.00 Kay Yuratovac Betty Bayus 5.00 Mr. & Mrs. Gene Klainsek Helen Milosovich 20.00 Marge Rachor Helen Milosovich 10.00 Your contributors are greatly appreciated. Many thanks. A happy 70th birthday to Branch 1 of Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Mary Turvey, Director 52 Oakridge Drive Marquette, Michigan 49855 Let’s Keep the Dream Alive! A LEGEND OF SAINT NICHOLAS Bernice Krašovec A LEGEND OF SAINT NICHOLAS is an entertaining story in verse about the Saint who was a Bishop in Myra, Turkey in the year 300 A.D. This story is also educational and brings to life the spirit of giving and sharing. While numerous parallels are drawn between St. Nicholas and the famous Santa Claus legend, the author informs her readers trhat the Santa Claus story is the product of many different cultures. Still, this entertaining book will warm the hearts of both children and adults as they gather together to celebrate the holiday season. Bernice Krašovec P.O. Box 1888 Pueblo, CO 81002-1888 SEND Quantity TODAY! Price Total of each Price A LEGEND OF SAINT NICHOLAS $5.95 ORDERS FULLY GUARANTEED SHIPPED UPON RECEIPT OF ORDER Sub Total Postage and Handling $1.75 (S1 will ao to SWU Scholarshin Funrli I have enclosed mv check or monov nrrinr fnr S Total Name Address City ____ .State -Zip CELEBRATING A GREAT 70TH AND STATE DAY In September, all around St. Stephen’s things were buzzing with all kinds of activities, thanks to Jean Hrastar and Ray Nusko for all the printing and assembling of the pamphlets. Ray Nusko decorated the hall, one side of the hall was dedicated to the memory of our deceased, as a “Memorial Wall” with each deceased member’s name written and the year of her death placed in a red heart. Since 1931 we have lost 295 members. Also, we honored all our Mothers/Women of the Year since we began this tribute in 1951 with their pictures and a bit of their life stories. This was placed on a large board near the “Memorial Wall”, as so many of our dear honored members are no longer with us.. Our kitchen hostesses: Elsie Ciszek, Joyce Broader, Irene Smid and Helen Fitzgerald had the continental breakfast set up, which was donated by our members - thanks to Millie Paisoli who baked cheese strudel and Ann Bunetta the potica. Elsie Statkus and Helen Fitzgerald donated the welcome napkins. Anna Bunetta handled the tickets, Mary Reich registered guests and members. The delegates and members began arriving at 8:00 o’clock; there were 7 branches who particiapted, some in their Narodna NoSa’s. We were very happy to have our National President, Jean Korsman from Minnesota and Marion Juricic Bowers, the ZARJA Food Editor from California, Pat Figurowski, National Auditor/Joliet, Corinne Leskovar, Editor ZARJA. Past Pres, of Br. #2 Shirley Melissa; oldest members attending were Elsie Melissa (93) and Mary Pecharich (90). Fran Morison welcomed everyone, prayers were said for our deceased. Fran turned the meeting over to V.P. Bonnie Prokup. We had to vote for a new VP as Bonnie Prokup was elevated to President by acclamation. Gen Puhek Buol was elected as VP (she also acted as secretary, taking minutes of the meeting). Sitting with the delegates of the other branches was our Secretary Dolores Puhek. Pres. Bonnie read congratulations from: President Clinton, Gov. Edgar, Mayor Daley, Irene Odorizzi, Heritage Director;Evelyn Majercik, Nat’l. Sec.; Kathy Emerson, Women’s Activity Director; Marge Church, Auditor (Details of the Meeting will be reported in later ZARJA). Jean Korsman asked that the members be patient with the new system, it takes Evelyn Majercik a long time getting all records in the computer, also that we must get our young members involved with branch activities, and we need more new members. Our church was decorated with lovely flowers, our member Donna Sierzega was getting married on the same day and her flowers also decorated the altar for us. (Congratulations to Donna and Tom.) Barbara Latronica made a lovely SWU Banner which decorated the podium. After the meeting, we all attended Mass, concelebrated by Father Blase and Deacon John Vidmar, the lovely voices of our Slovenian Choir under the direction of Father Vendelin brought back so many memories. Thank you all. Dinner was held at the Archview Banquet Hall beautifully decorated. Each guest received a miniature “Slovenian Avba” made by our artist Mary Foys Lauretig; Josie Lukas and Helen Fitzgerald made Praying Hands which were encased in plastic, and a prayer card; also Irene Odorizzi sent white rose candy suckers for each guest, After the nice dinner, we were entertained by the “Reich Trio” made up by Billy Reich and his grandchildren, Junior members - Lenny and Sheri Latronica. It was really great listening to the music that they produced. PROGRAM: Pres. Morison welcomed everyone; Father Vendelin gave the invocation. Introduction of our guests was made by Fran; Dolores Puhek and Jean Hrastar presented members related to deceased members each a Cross in honor of their mothers and/or grandmothers. Lodge History was given by Jean Železnikar. Our guest speaker was Ron Zefran. He touched on the subject of his heart; those who served Br. 2 over the past years, namely his mother, Liz who held offices in our Ženske Zveze (the organizer of the Sports Club, officer of the Bowling League and Br. 2, also a National Officer) and his grandmother, Mary Skrjanc, who was his mentor and kept him straight, as he told, in so many funny ways. We Nat’l President chats with Br. 2 Spiritual Advisor, Fr. Vendelin Spendov, OFM enjoyed you, Ron. Thanks! For the raffles we had so many nice gifts. A Slovenian doll was made by Mary Foys Lauretig, an Indian doll made by Anna Bunetta, a goose that wore her Slovenian Narodna Noša outfit made by Carol Reich Zelensky, af-ghan by Elsie Melissa. We all had such a nice time, thanks to the members of all the branches who came to the IL/IN Convention and help Br. 2 celebrate our 70th Anniversary. We hope that we did justice to our members who struggled years ago to get Zveze together for the women who came over from Europe so they could bond together and learn the American way. Sorry so many members missed this very historical event which was so precious to their mothers and grandmothers. Thanks to everyone who attended and those for your help! We have celebrated the past now we must concentrate on the future! Daisy RGTIUITIE5 SWU Crest indicates the 65th Anniversary of Branch in 1996. Congratulations! NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI Thanks to all the members, friends and families of our members who made our 70th Anniversary and State Convention such a big success. It was a great day here in Sheboygan for Br. 1! Special thanks to Kathy and Jim Gorton, Frances Grabner and Frank Virant for the great musical entertainment. Everyone enjoyed it very much, it was wonderful to meet Mary Turvey, our Scholarship Fund Director - glad to have her visit us from Marquette, MI. Good to see Hermine Dicke looking so well after her recent surgery. Janet Maurin was also with us and enjoyed every minute of it. Good luck to both of you. We had our Founders’ Day mass on Nov. 5th at 12 noon followed by lunch. We will be having our Christmas party on Dec. 17th at Fountain Park Restaurant. Dinner will be off the menu. Please contact Aggie at 452-8808 or Ruth at 452-8251 for more information. This will also be our annual meeting and election of officers. Hope to see lots of members there! Margare Fischer has moved from her home in Kohler to the Sheboygan Retirement Home on No. 6th St. in Sheboygan. Frances Krolnik had hip surgery and is temporarily a resident at Heritage Nursing Home. Theresa Udovich is back home after being at St. Nick’s Hospital. Rose Carek, mother of Fr. Peter Carek and member for over 50 years passed away in October. May her soul and the souls of all the departed rest in peace. We pray for all members who are ill or in nursing homes in the area. Do try to visit them during the holidays. We wish all our Sheboygan members. A Blessed Christmas and a Holy, Happy, Healthy New Year! DOROTHY BREZONIK Whoever does not think can at least listen. NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Fall has come and gone, with it, we enjoyed the colors which are here always for such a short stay. By now, we have all enjoyed “the big pumpkin”, as well as our Thanksgiving Feast with our families. Many of our members enjoyed nice vacations, with the help of our member, Marie Ovnik. Marie is celebrating her 47th year in the travel business. She has had a very fulfilling career as a travel agent, advising, assisting in planning and arranging trips for her clients to fully enjoy their precious vacation time. Marie has had many interesting travel experiences, one of which was her cruise to Antarctica last year. One of the ships” officers she met was a Slovene from Bled. Imagine! Two Slovenes meeting in Antarctica... small world, isn’t it. This year Marie visited China for the second time. We will be waiting for her return to tell us of all that is happening in that country. Keep plugging, Marie... so we can celebrate with you your 50th year in the business. October is the month of the Rosary - Rosaries were said for our sick: Maymie Fabian, Elsie Ciszek, Katy Srabamek, Ella Kaspar, Amelia Smith, Percy Morison, Bruna Novy, Helen Symonik, Elsa Antonilli - Mary Foys Lauretig. Cards were also sent out, please remember them in your prayers. Condolences to the family of Mary Kržišnik, her husband, John; brother, Frank (wife, Adeline) and brother, Martin. Mary was an active member for many years, please remember her in your prayers. Please remember these dates: December 7 - Children’s Party - “Come to the Stable”. December 19 - Adult’s Party - “Snowball Christmas”. MASS: 6 p.m. - dinner will follow - Members $6.00; Guests $8.00. Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed Holiday Season to all ZARJA readers. Vesele Božične Praznike in Srečno Novo Leto želim vsem. Love, DAISY NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO We are very pleased with the attendance at our meetings after the summer recess. We would like to have more come. Missing was one of our most faithful and dedicated members, Angela Mikatich, who passed away August 24. We extend our condolences to her family. She will be missed very much. Visitors in Pueblo this past summer were Gertrude’s Jordan’s daughter and husband, Bert and Dorothy Spencer, and Gertrude’s granddaughter, Julie Ann Hammond and her children. I, too, had an enjoyable week here with my grandson, Brian McCarthy, who came from Boston to visit. He is a senior at Notre Dame University and plays on Notre Dame’s Hockey team. Anna Klun had a pleasant surprise on her 80th birthday in July when her daughter, Joan and husband Jon, and son Jack and wife Brenda gave a surprise party for her. Anna’s grandchildren and great granddaughter came from California, Arizona and Utah and many of her friends were present too. At the meeting in September a beautiful tribute was given for our deceased members, Sharon Kidd, Angela Mikatich and Mary Blazina. Family members of the deceased were present. It was a pleasure to have Josephine Poder, a former member, back in our midst. Welcome back. Josephine was honored on her 75th birthday with her daughters and families present, other relatives and many friends. Her compassion for others was very evident when she had meals sent to her friends who were homebound and unable to come. Heather Walsh and her mother, Mary Jo, attended our meeting. Sally Glavich is Heather’s grandmother. Heather is a recipient of the National S.W.U. Scholarship. She expressed her gratitude for receiving the scholarship and enumerated the various activities she was involved in along with her dancing. She will have the privilege of being in Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. Once again congratulations are in order for Agnes and Frank Cvar who became great grandparents again. Their granddaughter, Shauna, and husband Jose Ramirez, are the parents of a son. Grandparents are Jerry and Roseann Cvar. Get well wishes are extended to all who are ill or in the hospital and remembered in our prayers are those who are homebound or in nursing homes. Also, condolences are extended to those who have lost their loved ones. May they rest in peace. PAULINE PAUCHICK NO. 5, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Success! We had a great success with our October 13th Mass followed by coffee and krofee. A thank you to Gloria Leffler for helping us to set-up. A special thank you to Father Kenneth Taylor for giving our organization warm welcome. In October the mass was said at for all living and deceased member of Branch 5. Thanks to Frances Yovanovich for her mass donation to Holy Trinity Catholic Church in memory of her sister, Mary Konovsek. Branch 5 would like to extend our prayers and sympathies to Lavena Wiegand on the loss of her husband in October. The raffle has met with tremendous response from all members. Thank you for your generosity in buying and selling the tickets. We have had additional prizes donated by Nikki Brown and Emma Stevens. A big thank you to all who have donated prizes. Since, this article is due by November 1 st, I cannot yet tell you who has won the prizes, but look for the list in the issue due out in February. We want to wish everyone a new year of health and happiness. We especially want to say hello to all the shut-ins. Please sure and check the next issue for the date of our annual spring meeting and luncheon. Love from Texas, BARBARA MOHR NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH On Sept. 25th Branch 10 meeting was called to order by Pres. Stefie Segulin. Prayers were said for our sick and deceased members. Minutes were read by Ann Stefančič and treasurer’s report was given by Theresa Dagg. Our deepest sympathy to our Vice Pres. Mary Pologar on the loss of her husband, Frank; to the loss of our former member Jenny Fonda, Rosemary Raines, Mary Peolo, Louise Jed-licar. Get well to our beloved twins, Joyce LeNassi and Fay Moro. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Discussed were plans for our annual Christmas Party to be held on Wed., Nov. 20th at 1 p.m. at Maria’s family restaurant, 22404 Lake Shore Blvd., Euclid, Ohio. Members are invited and guests are welcome. On Nov. 10, Sunday, St. Mary’s Church celebrated the 90th Anniversary of St. Mary’s Church on Holmes Ave. Banquet following at the Col. Slovenian Home on Holmes Ave. News of our members’ families Stefie Segulin, niece Lisa Fonda was married at St. Mary’s Church. Our best wishes to granddaughter of Olga Sec-lja, Renee Seday to be married to Paul Dusek on Sept. 28 at 2 p.m. at St. Peters in Solon, Ohio. Congratulations and best wishes. On Sunday the 1996 Ohio-Michigan convention was held at St. Christine’s Church in Euclid, Ohio. Mass was at 12 noon. Pastor, Rev. Francis R. Sterk welcomed members at the Mass. 9 members of Br. 10 attended. We thank Br. 14 for hosting the convention and all the hard work to make it a truly successful and good meeting and also for all the wonderful decorations and prizes that were given at the raffle. We, at Br. 10 enjoyed the hospitality. Br. 50 will be celebrating its 65th year. Congratulations. A Christmas dinner will be held on Dec. 8th at 1 p. m. at the Slov. Home on Recher Hall. To all our members we wish a Blessed Happy Healthy Holidays and to our sick members our prayers are with you. Happy New Year! ANNE STEFANČIČ Congratulations, Mary Kiel! Mary Kiel, our energetic member and reporter from Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI was named “Baraga Woman of the Year - 1996)” at the annual Baraga Days weekend celebration held in Toronto, Canada over Labor Day. We know Mary is dedicated to the Baraga Cause for Canonization and directs group-attendance at all the Baraga events. Our heartiest congratulations, Mary! C.L. NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Our meetings are well-attended so we must be doing something right! In October we had our Fall luncheon which was a huge success. Thanks go to all the members who donated money to buy the meat and other items, plus those who donated food and desserts. A nice combination of good food so the people were able to have seconds. Nobody went home hungry. Not to mention names, I don’t want to forget anyone, but a big thank you to the kitchen helpers and those that came the day before to set up and do some cooking. To those who brought prizes, thank you, too. Start working on your projects for the next event. The entertainment, “Flashbacks”, got a standing ovation so it was enjoyed by all. Frank Mrsnik lost her husband. Fran took care of him and wasn’t able to attend meetings but always remembered us with a monetary gift. Our sympathy to the family. Tillie Russ lost her husband, also. John attended many of our functions. At his wake we learned that Tillie was hospitalized and could not attend the funeral. We all wish her a speedy recovery. Our sympathy to her and the family. A bus from Milwaukee with members from Branches 12 and 43 attended the State Convention in Sheboygan. Some of our members attended the 50 year members’ party at Klemmers put on by Br. 43. Entertainment was by young people in their Slovenian narodna nošas and they sang beautiful Slovenian songs. They are trying to keep the young people aware of their Slovenian heritage. Good luck! By now, I hope everyone has their Keep your members informed! We love to read news of your branch in ZARJA! billing from the National Secretary and paid up. As you know, from now on we have direct billing. I have mentioned this in my articles many times, so again, I repeat, that if you have a question, please call Theresa Fedran, our secretary, to get you into the new system. This has been a hectic year for Theresa, getting everyone straightened out. Let’s hope Theresa will have an easier year ahead. It should be! Thank you, Theresa for taking good care of all of us. November meeting is over by the time you get this. Our Christmas party is Dec. 5th and reservations are a MUST so please get your tickets from A1 Jelinek, 453-4161. Our State President, Joan Yaklich is having some health problems and we wish her well. And the same to all of our sick members - get well soon. A Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year to all. MARY KIEL Congratulations, Mary Kiel! Our member and Reporter for ZARJA, Mary Kiel could be described as one who is energetic and giving of time and ability. She certainly is an active member, one who can be counted on to volunteer her services for every good cause. She’s also the one who handles all our tours. Mary attends meetings regularly -even when she’s sick! In September she conducted a tour to Toronto Canada for Bishop Baraga Days. It was a few days before our State Convention. When in Canada, much to her surprise, Mary was called up to the stage and presented as the Woman of the Year, and given a plaque. Congratulations, Mary! The members of Br. 12 want to thank you for all you do for us. Your help and kindness and all the encouragement you give to everyone is very appreciated! God love you! Theresa Fedran, Secretary 70 Years NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA It almost seems impossible, but we have come to the end of another year. I really haven’t had a whole lot of news this year as we seem to be getting smaller and smaller. We lost several dear and dedicated members this past year and they are remembered in our prayers. Also a few have moved away to be closer to family. But our dedicated President, Josephine still holds a meeting every month even for just a few of us. We will be having our Christmas Party on Dec. 5th at noon. We will have our gift exchange, goodies to eat, and a nice time so come and join us. On a joyful note, the Pecavar Family is very excited with the arrival of ISOBEL KATHERINE LEHANE. Grandma Katie, Aunt Stanka, Mom Mary, and big sister Jessica are all members. Congratulations and God bless this beautiful new baby. This reporter and member, Marion Mirabella went to another paper doll party in Southern California. We had a marvelous time and got to meet Jane Withers and take pictures together. What a delightful lady she is. I heard there was a wonderful birthday party for Rose Scoff. She celebrated her 97th birthday. Happy, Happy Birthday, Rose. If you have any news you would like to share with us or anyone on the sick list, please let me know. It is very hard to write without news. Wishing every family a joyous and Blessed Holiday Season. Everything good and happy in 1997... and remember... THE LOVE IN YOUR HEART WASN’T PUT THERE TO STAY, LOVE ISN’T LOVE TILL IT’S GIVEN AWAY. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! BEVERLY JACKSON, Reporter NO. 14, EUCLID, OH Who would have thought that winter would descend upon us like a ton of bricks, with barely an autumn season? It’s November 1st and the prediction is for weather in the 20’s and snow showers tomorrow. Much too early! We had a lovely day to celebrate our statewide combined branch lunch and meeting which we hosted here at the Slovenian Society Home. Thanks to all the ladies who helped make this a festive occasion. Ileene Collins worked many hours planning and preparing the event. The hall and tables were decked out in a patriotic red, white and blue theme with red feathered cardinals, the State bird, at each place setting. Ileene and yours truly wore our Slovenian Narodna Noša outfits as we greeted and handed out carnations to the ladies. A delicious meal was prepared by Sophie Mazi and served by her crew of ladies as we dined on soup, chicken, pork and all the trimmings ending with cheese and apple strudel. A nice representation of members from other branches attended from Nos. 10 Cleveland, 25 Euclid, 42 Maple Hts., 47 Garfield Hts., 50 Euclid, 68 Fairport Harbor, 73 War-rensville Hts., and 101 from Bedford Hts. Seated at the head table were officers: Marge Church No. 42, Diane Varney No. 14, Kathy Dorchak No. 47, Host President Martha Koren No. 14, Evelyn Majercik No. 73, Fran Gazvoda No. 25, and Cirila Kermavner No. 25. Pres. Martha Koren expressed thanks to our entire committee who worked so hard to make this an enjoyable afternoon. Thanks to Ileene Collins, Stana Grill, Jackie Ulle, Ruth Korelec, Diane Varney, Mary Sintic, Jennie Fitzthum and Vera Bajec. Thanks also to those contributing lovely door prizes. Our condolences are extended to the family of Angela Arko who passed away on Sept. 4 and who had been a resident of the Slovene Home for the Aged for the past three years. God bless our dear departed and may they find eternal love and peace. Hope this article reaches our members by Tuesday, December 3 when we have our festive Christmas Dinner which starts at 6:00. Call in your reservations to Martha Koren at 585-4227. Wishing all our members and readers a Blessed Christmas Season among the warmth of your families and friends. May the New Year 1997 bring us all good health, joy and peace. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! ALICE KUHAR s love NIANS to cook 15th century Florentine artists, the Della Robia family, is famous for colored enamel reliefs. Their works are in the Vatican and many churches. This appetizer recalls their famous wreaths. “DELLA ROBBIA” WREATH On the outer portion of a very large round platter, randomly place a mixture of bite sized vegetables such as carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, mushrooms, green, red or yellow peppers, radishes, cucumbers, pickles, green onions, olives, snow peas, zucchini, Belgian endive, jicama, etc. Garnish with parsley sprigs and place a bowl of your favorite dip in the middle. From my sister, Carrie Johnson, a member Branch 20, Joliet, who lives in Hudson, Wisconsin. CHRISTMAS VEGETABLES It was a great pleasure for my husband Keith and me to attend the Illinois-In-diana State Convention hosted by SWU Branch 2, Chicago, who did a superb job. The comraderie of those present and the beautiful Slovenian songs sung at mass touched the heart. Thanks to all! And next, CHRISTMAS! For St. Nicholas Day, December 8, children put their shoes under the bed the night before, hoping to get wrapped candies in them in the morning and not, as in the old days, the threat of a lump of coal from the coal bin in the basement. Now a rock replaces the coal. Where can one get a lump of coal today? Actually, I’ve never known anyone who got the coal or rock. The Nativity is expressed in miniature figures or in an advent calendar with windows for children to open. There are thoughts of churches filled with people and song. It is a time when the ladies of the home present special dishes as an expression of their love for family and friends, remembering that the food is for the body but the best recipe for a blessed Christmas is our kindness and cheerful attitude that feed the soul. God bless you, From the heart, Marion Marion Juricic Bowers 940 Galleron Road St. Helena, CA 94574 1# package of frozen peas or cut green beans 1 cup fresh red peppers or canned drained pimientos 2 Tbsp. butter Salt and pepper to taste Cut peppers or pimientos into lV’ dice. Cook green vegetables re package directions. Add peppers or pimientos during the last minute of cooking. Drain. Add butter and salt and pepper. Serves 6. Slovenians love strudel at holiday time. The carrots in this one go well with holiday foods and carrots are inexpensive. Use your favorite strudel dough recipe. CARROT STRUDEL FILLING c. butter, lightly browned and cooled c. breadcrumbs c. coarsely grated carrots c. sugar tsp. salt tsp. cinnamon egg yolks egg whites whipped Preheat oven to 400°. Brush strudel with cup butter, sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Mix !/4 c. butter, carrots, sugar, salt, cinnamon, egg yolks. Fold in egg whites. Spread filling on dough. Bake 20 minutes, turn down to 350° and bake 10-20 minutes longer until crisp and brown. Happy holidays to Tillie Ausich, Branch 103, Washington, D.C. who wrote that Irene Odorizzi suggested she send this in. Tillie says, “This is a very large recipe and I usually make it during the Christmas season for family gatherings”. MAMIE EISENHOWER’S FUDGE 4!/j c. sugar Pinch of Salt 2 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. butter 1 tall can evaporated milk 12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate bits 12 oz. German sweet chocolate 1 pint (2 jars) marshmallow cream 2 cups chopped nutmeats Butter a large (about 9 x 13”) pan with 1 tsp. butter. Boil sugar, salt, 2 t. butter, and milk for 6 minutes. Put chocolates, nuts and marshmallow cream into a large bowl. Pour the boiling syrup over it all. Beat until chocolate is melted and pour into pan. Let stand a few hours before cutting into serving pieces. Store in an airtight container. Greetings of the Season! My best wishes to all of our members, especially our shut-ins. May our Infant Jesus bless you abundantly during this Christmas Season and best wishes for a healthy and happy New Year! Please mark your calendars! December 14th is the day! Gaddini’s is the place! 12:00 p.m. is the time! $12.00 is the price! Call Gladys, Vida or me for reservations. Let’s make merry! Twelve of us attended the State Convention of Illinois on Oct. 6th hosted by Branch 2 at St. Stephen’s. Pres. Fran Morison and her committee are to be highly commended for the wonderful day they put together. We were warmly welcomed - the convention ran smoothly, Mass at St. Stephen’s is always so special for me. Fr. Blase and Deacon John Vidmar concelebrated the Mass. The choir under Fr. Vendelin’s direction was superb. Hvala lepa! Members and officers of Branch 2 brought up an assortment of gifts at the offertory - such as our emblem, red carnations, a rosary, potica and wild rice along with bread, water and wine. The dinner and the music was excellent as was the program. I believe we all won a prize. I have my ‘Bon-bon’ a real cute white cat. No food - no litter box. Those of us in attendance were Edna Winters, Gladys Buck, Vida Kumse, Sylvia Spretnjak, Mary Ann Skibbie and myself in our Narodne noše. Other members were Lena Amicarelli, Manda Maggio, Dorothy Rossi, Tina Sertick, Mary Jane Strus and Mary Ann’s hubby, Bud Skibbie. By the way we have a new state president, Bonnie Pohar Prokup. Our former vice president has moved on up - our new vice president is Gen Buol of Branch 2. Congratulations to these fine young ladies. They will indeed be an asset to our organization. Did you folks on the East Side notice how much lighter it was on Oct. 12th and 13th? What sudden burst of light was due to two lovely ladies celebrating birthdays. 80 candles on each cake makes for a lot of light. Happy, happy birthday and a happy new year to Edna Winters and Fran Zupančič. Elsie Grunhard also celebrated the big ‘70’ - happy, happy to you too Elsie. What a pleasure it was to renew acquaintances with a few old time friends on Sept. 22 - Ana Lustig, Tini Martin, Fran Konar and Agnes Krilich. These ladies all come to St. George’s Christian Mother’s celebration of the 75th year of their organization. Congratulations to Dotsi Rossi who is now the President, and doing a wonderful job. Congratulations and best wishes to a lovely young couple. Ellen Franko and Steven Schmiedl were joined in matrimony on October 26 in Las Vegas. Ellen is the daughter of our Dolores Franko. Ellen was given in marriage by her uncle Fred Krol - her cousin Becky Strauss was her attendance. Her aunts and uncles - Teenie and Joe Tomasik, Andrea and Ed Krai, and Mary Rago were also there as well as other relatives and friends to share in their joy. They had a reception in Calumet City on Nov. 16th. Grandma Job Hester flew out to share in the joy of her granddaughter’s marriage. Donna Koenig was wed to Bryan Lundberg on Aug. 9th in Glendale, AZ. Congratulations to a fine young couple. Our Gladys has had her traveling shoes on this year! She met up with niece Barb Ireland - her hubby Tom and the young ones, Jason and Kelly - they toured Door County - then crossed Lake Michigan on the S.S. Badgers - with the car on board. They debarked at Ludington, MI, toured that entire area - then came on home - not for long - she and Vida headed out to Mount Rushmore - they both loved the trip and heartily recommend it. Did she stay home now? No! Off to Las Vegas with Mary Ann Skibbie and her two daughters. They enjoyed. We’ll just have to lasso that lady for awhile. A beautiful couple who is home-bound reached 60 years of togetherness on Aug. 22nd. To Mike and Vi Somin our congratulations and prayers. We love you. On August 14th we lost a lovely member, Palmera Rapaich. She was a dear sister of our Clara Saviano - a large group of our members came to say the rosary and other prayers in conjunction with St. George Christian mothers. To Clara and all other members of the family our deepest condolences. May she rest in peace. Members please take note - our next meeting is on February the 8th 1997 at 12:30 p.m. at St. George’s Hall. Hope to see you then. Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year! MARGE PREBIL NO. 20, JOLIET, IL It’s hard to believe that three years have passed. This is my final article. It is like saying so-long to a pen pal! Branch 20 wants to congratulate Marge Grayhack on receiving the “American Slovenian Catholic Union KSKJ Fratemalist of the Year Award. Not only is she active with KSKJ but she is also active with our branch of the S WU and about a dozen other clubs in the local area. To know Marge is to love her. Marge and her husband, Tony don’t have the word NO in their vocabulary. They just say “when, where and what time!” Congratulations Marge, you are most deserving of a long time, over-due award. We have some sick members in need of our prayers for a speedy recovery. They are: Sister Marlene Ambrose, Joann Morrison, Bobbie Potochnic, Marlene Ancel, Lee Gutnik and Nicholas Pucel. We pray and hope that you soon will be feeling like new again. Hope to see you all at our Christmas party. We congratulate Shirley Dzurko on 28 years of service as a school crossing guard. She has helped three generations cross at Collins & Ohio Streets. You just can’t find dedication like that anymore. Keep up the wonderful work! Happy 40th wedding anniversry to Emil and Bernice (Resetic) Ramsak. Emil and Bernice celebrated with a surprise party given by their children. They have three children and one granddaughter. Branch 20 extends sincere sympathy to Lydia Marquardt and family on the death of her father, Gino DeAngelis. Also to the family of Zora Vrencur who was a member for 48 years. To Jean Reardon and family on the death of her father, Edward Vesel. To Marge and Chuck Franze and Ed and Olga Ancel on the loss of their sister and sister-in-law, Anne Stefanic. And to the family of Robert Cambic. They are all in God’s caring hands and are resting in peace. Pamela Lodwyck and Christian Barnes became man and wife on August 10th at St. Joseph’s church. Many happy years to you both. Some new babies - some new members. Annette and Kent Nelson have a new little baby boy, Brett Anthony. Proud grandparents are Tony and Mary Mihelich. Scott and Heidi Domark have a new baby girl and Hannah has a new little sister. Mark and Marion Sohoener are the grandparents. Also Mark and Colleen Starasinich are the proud parents of Kristina Marie. I know they will bring you all much joy. Enjoy, because they grow up so very fast. Mine are 22 and almost 20. I know, I can hardly believe it myself. We had our Grape Dance the end of September and as usual it was a lot of fun and a great success. If you weren’t there you really missed out. Frankie Yankovic was our honorary mayor for the dance and he even played a little for us. Even today, he can still pay a mean polka. A really great time was had by all. Don’t forget Sunday, December 15th. Mark your calendar. This is the day of our Christmas brunch. It will be at Town & Country West on 1-55 Frontage Road and Jefferson Street. Cocktails begin at 11:30 with a cash bar. Brunch is at 12:00 noon. The cost is $12.00 for adults, $6.00 for children 3-10 years. Guests are also invited. Entertainment will be by Holiday Magic. Make your reservations by December 7th by calling Marcia Judnik at 436-6409 or Jo Lustik at 723-2777. Make checks payable to SWU Branch 20. Our next meeting is Sunday, January 19th at 1 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Park. We will have installation of officers and a buffet lunch will be provided by the 1996 officers. Well I’d better wind this article down. See you all at the brunch. Have a wonderful Christmas and the Happiest New Year ever. Take care and may God bless. JOYCE VICICH RUNNING FOR RECORDS! In the small city of Ankeny, Iowa sports programs are very prominent and the young competitors of the Akeny High School are exceptional. When compared to other high schools in the U.S. Ankeny High rates among those on top! One of their stars is a young lady who happens to be the granddaughter of our Jonita Ruth, top membership award winner of the SWU and a member of the team that runs the Home Office in Joliet. Jonita is of the well-known Erjavec family - and now she is as proud of her own granddaughter, as was her late mother, Josephine Erjavec of her three daughters, Olga Ancel, Mildred Pucel and Jonita Ruth. Getting back to the subject of this story we bring you Kelsey Singletary, a freshman member of the Ankeny girls’ team that has been ranked in the pre-season Top 10 by the Iowa High School Cross-country Coaches Association. Kelsey recently won two medals in track and field at the All-Iowa Games, a gold in the 800 meter race and with her team (in which she ran the anchor leg of the race), Kelsey was a winner in the 400 relay. Nice going, Kelsey! We’re sure your parents, Janice and George Singletary and sisters, Kyle and twins, Hannah and Hayley are having a hard time keeping up with you! Keep it up! And, Go Hawks! “Champ” Kelsey Singletary I like that!! Turning back the clock an hour was so satisfying it occurred to me we could manufacture time every weekend by a few twists of the wrist! But time marches on. In the waning days of August some 40 local Slovenes enjoyed the picnic at Leo’s Acres. The small number shows how the years have changed our lives. Beginning with Sister Sabina’s death on Aug. 27, in two weeks, the Lustig family lost a first cousin, a brother, and two life-long friends. Sister Sabina died of Alzheimer’s at the Dominican Motherhouse in Springfield; our brother John, 94, of congestive heart failure, and complications following heart surgeries claimed Bernadette Stefanich Kresovich of Chicago and Mathilde Drassler Beham of Sun City, AZ. Bernadette’s brothers, Louie and Joe, reside in Bradley. Mathilde was a sister of our member, Mayme D. She made several trips to Slovenia and in her will did not forget her mother’s parish church. Wish I could recount here the special traits that made these loved ones so memorable. We take comfort in the words, “Those who die go no further from us than God, and God is very near.” (credit Catholic Digest, Nov. ’96, Anonymous) Our thanks go to Mollie McIntyre and Elizabeth Kinder for hosting the Branch in August and to Helen Sebas-tiani and Emma Lustig (patting myself on the back with a wet noodle) for fulfilling their duty in October. The hostesses did their utmost to provide some happy hours. For one thing, a contribution to the Scholarship Fund was voted in, and for another, arrangements were made for the Christmas dinner at Family Restaurant on Sunday, Dec. 8. Congratulations to Marsha Clutter, granddaughter of Ann Richards. Marsha is now a personal bank consultant. Hey, can you spare a dime? And remember her brother Mark, the Air Force Trainee? Hawaii is great but he misses his family and friends. It proves that home is where the heart is! A bit of honor has come to St. Joseph School in their 8th grader, Brad Benoit, who made his debut in the Chicago Lyric Opera House. He sings backstage in the Lyric Children’s Chorus and has a small solo part onstage in Puccini’s Nicholas Pucel meets the King - of Polkas, of course! 70TH ANNIVERSARY IN MINNESOTA Gianni Schicchi. His parents are active supporters of the school. Of their six children, Brad is the only one musically inclined. We wish him well in his dream of a career in opera. Christmas! He came, He sacrificed all to give us LIFE. Let us pray that Our Country will be transformed from a culture of death to one of LIFE. Then there will be the Peace, Love, and Happiness we all wish one another. And a Happy New Year, too! EMMA LUSTIG NO. 23, ELY, MN Members of the Slovenian Women’s Union met on October 7, 1996, at 7:00 p.m. President Jane Yadlosky opened the meeting with prayer. All officers were present. Plans were made for the Coffee Social and Bake Sale to be held on Oct. 25th in the Church Hall. Mary Starkovich resigned as Sunshine Chairman; and the ladies thanked her for her years of service with a round of applause. The Youth Group for Church had donated a printer to the Church with which the signs for our Coffee Social were made. Delores High volunteered to be Sunshine Chairman. November Lunch Committee: Julia Fink, Mary Ann Lekatz, Kathryn Klabe, Virgie Ivancich, Rose Fer-derber. Pauline Ferderber was the winner of the door prize; and Angie Mobilia won the 50/50 raffle. Coffee and followed the meeting, with Bingo after that. MARCELLA ZUPEC, Reporter I enjoy my membership, especially through the articles in ZARJA. I am now attempting to And my ancestors, and have joined the Slovenian Geneological Society. All of this has been possible because I have joined the Slovenian Women’s Union. Thank you very much. Sincerely, Margaret Addicott Enumclaw, WA I am so proud of our Branch 23 members in Ely, MN. We celebrated the 70th anniversary of SWU with a coffee social and bake sale with a nice hallo-ween theme... You should have seen the decorations... Each table had a special halloween experience of its own. Thanks to the decorating committee under the direction of Rosylyn Perko. The outstanding support of all the members was really reflected in all the bakery for both the bake sale and the coffee ’nd-table, what a variety (from noodles to divinity and many ethnic foods in between). Gen Erchul, and her committee did a wonderful job packing, displaying, organizing and selling all these nutritious goodies. Wow! What a sell out!!! Our special raffle tables turned out to be very special. We raffled an apple potica donated by Rose Gomik, a blueberry potica donated by Julie Russ, and a couple of halloween cakes donated by Margaret Shuster. We also had a 50/50 drawing... All these raffles were well accepted. To top all of this, you should have NO. 23, ELY, MN Ely Branch 23 would like to thank Aurora #35 for hosting the Minnesota State Convention on Sept. 8, 1996 — What a wonderful day! The weather was beautiful, the company was great, the food was delicious, remembering our heritage, praying together—who could ask for anything more? It was so nice to see so many people from other branches and how nice to see the Aurora junior members serving our dinner — they did a wonderful job - Thanks Aurora, you did an “Outstanding job” -To Irene M. Odorizzi, the roses were beautiful and delicious! - Thanks! We had our September meeting last night and everyone agreed that summer went by too fast. Members were encouraged to try to promote our organization to increase our membership. Plans were reviewed and committees appointed for our Special 70th Anniversary Halloween Coffee Social and Bake Sale to be held on October 25, at St. seen the coffee ’nd table!!! Oh my, what ethnic delicacies: Apple potica, krofe, walnut potica, flancati, kolachees, kifli, rosettes, bars and cookies. This was beautiful... and we had a little Slovenian doll on the table, right by the apple potica. A special thanks to Rose Pucel who helped the co-chairperson, Rosemarie Buchner and Jane Y. Learn to make krofe. She was a great teacher... so patient!! But all in all, thanks to all the members who baked, donated their time and hard work, and those who made monetary donations, the calling committee really came through once again, and our advertising committee got the word out; also thanks Pat Lammi and Gloria Smuk. The community support was great! The members’ outstanding cooperation and support made this such a memorable and successful event. Hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and at the threshhold is a beautiful and blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! God Bless! JANE YADLOSKY, President Anthony’s Church Hall. Let’s hope we don’t have a snowstorm (after last winter here in Ely - who knows?) All in all, Ely Branch 23 has had a quiet, transitional year. Many of us anxiously awaited the changes that took place at the national level, but we seem to have gotten our dues paid with not too much confusion — thanks to all for your patience! We in Ely really did have a year of transition because our branch still had a social club (The Dawn Club) which met once a month, but members voted to disband The Dawn Club and have only one meeting a month. Some members were not in agreement with this and also the new billing so we may have a smaller membership this year, but we are working on some promotion-als for a boost in membership. Every year we have a WONDERFUL Christmas party which is done by the committee of the month. Our “Women of the Year Banquet” is always the Hi-Lite of the year. Florence Markovich was our honored person for 1996. This event is also planned by the committee of the month. “Thanks” to Olga Feroni who takes care of the drawing of names for each committee of the month and following through on commitments. Our Ritualistic Funeral Team, under the direction of Angela Godec, does a very impressive service at any member’s funeral. Thanks to all the women who give up their time for such a well worth cause. Our sunshine Chairman, Mary Starkovich, is always “on the ball” when it is time to send “get well” wishes or condolences if necessary. Our Branch donates to the National Scholarship Fund in honor of any deceased members. One of our “Fund Raisers” which has proved to be very successful is our 50/50 drawing after our meeting is adjourned. I think our Branch has the best Ticket Seller” in Minnesota, his name is Bill Slogar. We must thank him for his enthusiasm and salesmanship. “Thanks, Bill”! Special thanks go out to our Calling Committee who got together during the summer to reorganize their lists of members from names we had; so the new membership lists will be greatly appreciated when they come out for next year. Thanks to: Olga Feroni, Angela Mobilia, Pauline Ferderber, Molly Grahek, Rosemarie Buchner, Sally Davidson, Molly Mistek, and Dolores (“Dodie”) High. When these members give you a call to let you know what is going on or need you help, please say - “thanks”! Now that we have survived an influx of tourists here in Ely - yes, during our Blueberry Festival” (rated one of the best craft shows in Minnesota) 25000+ people were here for that weekend. Our Boundary Waters attracts many canoeists and fisherman and our International Wolf Center brings many tour groups and visitors. Ely really had a busy summer, plus many of our “snowbirds” (summer residents) now are back in the South, so driving and parking in our little city are back to normal. Ely now has a new “Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort” which has been a great asset to our community so I’m sure many winter sport enthusiasts will be in our area for snowmobiling, winter fishing, dogsledding, cross country skiing and before you know it, our “Winter Festival” will be here. If any members are vacationing in our area, we welcome you to our meeting which is the first Monday of the month, August thru May. We are very proud of some of our members who belong to the “Slovenian Chorus” and just got back from a trip to Slovenia where they performed in concerts there. Welcome Home and we’ll be having a travelogue of their trip at one of our meetings. Thanks to all our members for the work they do when they are on any committee and thanks to all the officers for their support. Special thanks to our Secretary Rosemarie Buchner who has had a “trying” year with all the changes. Thanks to all of you - keep up the good work and may 1997 be a “growing year”! (and a better winter!) JANE YADLOSKY, President NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL We had a small attendance at our October meeting which we attributed to the change in the weather—very rainy and much colder temperatures. We discussed our recent trip to the State Convention and agreed that Branch 2 was to be commended on the beautiful job they did planning the convention and also celebrating their 70th anniversary. Fran Morison, Br. 2 President and her officers and members planned the day’s activities and the time passed so quickly. Our member Bonnie Prokup is now State President since Geri Lynn Bima was transferred by her company to London, England. We enjoyed hearing our National President, Jean Korsman, speak on our organization and also having the new Food Editor, Marion Juricic Bowers, present too. She asked the members to send recipes to her, especially recipes for the good Slovenian dishes we all love. We enjoyed having Mary Jermene, Br. 85, and Angela Nico, Br. 89 traveling with us as well as Jonita and the Joliet group. A donation was made to the local food pantry for the Holiday Food Baskets. Betty Stack is in charge of purchasing a gift for a needy child from the Catholic Social Service Giving Tree in church. Barb Pohar will serve as Chairman of the Christmas Party and members of her family will assist her. Information on the party will be in the Church Bulletin and the local newspaper. Fruit baskets will be given to members in nursing homes and those confined to their homes. We missed Jo Savnik who tries to attend all of our meetings but was not back from her trip to Slovenia. She also has so many interesting things to share with us. We looking forward to hearing about the trip to London, England by Bonnie Prokup and husband Bill, her sister, Debbie Pohar, and aunt, Jean Ficek and husband, Bob; they planned to visit Geri Lynn Bima while there. Betty Stack, Financial Sec., is in charge of the Bakeless Bake Sale project. The letters were mailed at the end of October and we would appreciate an early response from our members. We hope to have as successful a Project as in the past year. This is our 10th Bakeless Bake Sale and our members really like the convenience of it. Our congratulations to Barb Pohar on the birth of grandson John IV to son, John and his wife, Jill. Our sympathy is extended to Trese Hollerich whose brother, John Livek passed away on October 17. May God grand his soul Eternal Rest. Fannie Piletič’s husband, Anthony has been seriously ill. Remember our sick members and their family members who are ill in your prayers. The Holiday Season is an especially trying time for those who are ill and confined so a little visit or card would be really appreciated. We welcome two new members to our Branch, Janice Bedenko Mueller and Marilyn Zupančič Ciesielski. Birthday greetings, some of them belated, to the following: November birthday celebrants; Marilyn Ciesielski, Rose Furlan, Mary Gomik (99 years on November 11) Florence Smorkol and Anne Matthews, (twins), Geri Lynn Bima, Mary Senica, Loretta Story, Helen Swietek, and Mary Ann Pieczynski. Happy birthday to the December birthday ladies; Jr. member, Caitlin Collins, Olga Fritz, Michelle Gende, Marian Borisek, Evelyn Kas-tigar, Antonia Hoefferle, Fannie Piletič, Jane Gruenwald, and Mary Anne Weber, and our January celebrants; Janice Mueller, Gale Nowik and Cathy Jo Lenkaitis. As our usual procedure, we won’t meet in January and February but look forward to getting together in March. I wish all of our members, near and far, and their loved ones a very Merry and Blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter ST. NICHOLAS VISITS ST. VITUS You are cordially invited to spend a few happy hours with the children of the St. Vitus Slovenian School, who are preparing a play for you about St. Nicholas. The event will take place on Sunday, December 1, at 3:00 p.m. in the St. Vitus Auditorium. The play will be performed in Slovenian. Admission is $6.00 age 18 and up. Everyone is welcome to attend this unique event. NO. 25, CLEVELAND, OH Hope it was a glorious summer for all the members... Now, back to business. Our first meeting was held in the social room at St. Vitus on Sept. 15, 1996. We opened with prayers. Happy birthday and our best to the mother of our President, Frances Gazvoda, all of 89 years young! She is on the sick list right now so say a prayer for her speedy recovery. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Josie Am-brosic celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past month. Congratulations from all. Deepest sympathy to the family of Jennie Strumble. May her memory be eternal. On the mend is Cirila Kermavner who had knee surgery. We are glad to see she is well on her way to recovery. Stay that way. Have you received all your computed invoices for your membership dues??? Let us know. Ohio-Michigan convention was on Oct. 13 at Christine’s Church, dinner at Slovenian Society Home on Racher Avenue. Branch 14 was the hostess. Slovenian Women’s Union Branch 25 is trying to update our list of addresses and birthdays, so that we can send greetings for major events in our members’ lives. Make sure we have your correct address and birthdate (including the year) by contacting our Sunshine Person, Peg Moore, at the address below. Also feel free to contact Peg with the names and addresses of other Branch 25 members who are ill, or have special events coming up. Peg Moore 4495 West 62nd Street Brooklyn, OH 44144-3403 Ph: (216) 741-7397 after 7 p.m. After the meeting we munched on cheese and crackers and a glass of “vino”... and played bingo. Say a prayer for all our deceased, and shut-ins!!! A thought to live by... never give up on anybody. Miracles happen every day. Till we meet again... EMILEE JENKO, Reporter NO. 32, EUCLID, OH On October 16th, Branch 32 had mass at St. Christine’s Church for our living and deceased members. It was well attended by the members. After mass we had our monthly meeting. Refreshments were served after the meeting. Pumpkin squares made by our President Ann Cooke were served with beverage by our hostess Ceal McLean. Ceal always brings in decorations to celebrate the holiday of the month. Thanks to Ann & Ceal for the Halloween treats. Branch 32 thanks President Marty Koren, their officers and members of Branch 14 for a very nice Ohio-Michigan Convention on October 13th. It was well attended by our members. The mass was beautiful and it was also well attended by all branch members. The meal at Slovenian Society Home was delicious. It was very nice to meet all of the National and Regional board officers that were present at the meeting. Many raffle prizes were given after the meeting. Thank you Branch 14. Members on the sick list, Vida Perme, had surgery, Rose Brancely was in the hospital. Vida and Rose are now at their homes recuperating. We wish all of our sick members a speedy recovery to good health. Hope to see our sick members back at our meetings soon. Few of our members have been doing some traveling. Jean McNulty to Las Vegas, Thelma Lisching with her family to Morristown, FL., Charlotte Perdan and Family to Myrtle Beach, and Adrienne Jager with sister Nadine to visit brother Howard and family in Indiana. They all had a good time on their vacations. On November 20th, is our next meeting and we will be having election of officers. After the meeting we will have our dice game. Members are asked to bring 3 gifts. It will be a fun game. We also will be celebrating Thanksgiving Day at this meeting. We wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving Day with good health and happiness. Members try to attend our December 18th meeting. We will be having our usual Christmas Party at this meeting. Hope we just have a little snow on the ground on Christmas Day. May all of you have a very nice Christmas and a good New Year with peace, good health, and happiness always. In the New Year I wish that all members get more involved with their branch and try to bring in new members in the S.W.U. We all should try to help make it bigger and stronger. January and February of 1997, we will not have any meetings. Our first meeting in 1997 will be on March 19th. We will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Wear something green to the meeting and we all will be Irish. To all members who had birthdays in October, November, December, January, and a Happy Birthday to all with good health and much happiness. Members that have anniversaries during these next few months we wish you the very best and may you have many more good years together. Helen and Frank Kovačevič will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on January 11th, congratulations! May 1997 be good to all. Love and Peace, FRANCES OGOREVC, ADRIENNE JAGER NO. 33, DULUTH, MN October Anniversary Dinner was held at the Belknap South with 40 attendance. Election of officers and Mother of the Year selection was planned for Nov. 6th meeting. Christmas Party with Dime Social will be held Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2 p.m. with all junior members invited; hope more members will attend in the afternoon. Dorothy Jacobson went on a week trip to Santa Monica, CA. Prayers for all on the sick list including: Bess Kenyon, Albertina Bianco, Agnes Skull, Ida Dincau and Rose Borland, Helen Zilko and Louise McCaffrey. Prayers of sympathy to Linda Tezak on the death of her daughter. Dominic Winifred Ellena on their wedding day, Sept. 14, 1946. Congratulations to Winifred and Dominic Ellena on 50th Wedding Anniversary. They celebrated their 50th anniversary with renewal of vows at St. Elizabeth’s Church followed by a family celebration. Their children are: John and Mary Ellena, Cloquet; Carolina and Fred Shermock, St. Cloud; Mark and Susan Ellena, Wales, WI; and Denise and Brian Gunderson, Duluth. They have 14 grandchildren. Winifred has been a member for 42 years and Carolina for 13 years. Congratulations!! Congratulations to Cheryl (Tver-berg) Foldesi on baby boy! Her mother, Althea Tverberg, Cheryl and first son are branch members. The “Dime” social in May put $75.00 into our treasury. The Spaghetti Dinner/Bake Sale added $424.25. Congratulations to Bess (Fresl) and Lyle Kenyon on their 60th Anniversary. Prayers for all on the “sick list” including Betty Piconnatto, Donna Carl, Clem Spehar, Katherine Broten. Sympathy and prayers to Josie Hočevar on the death of her husband; to the family of Donna Carl, member of our branch. Happy holiday wishes to all Zveza members!! LOIS M. PELANDER, Reporter I feel that I am writing this as a letter, telling you that I have been remiss in my letter writing, because it has been such a long time since I have “written” to you! I miss getting the ZARJA more often! At our October meeting, we had another good attendance, with member, Theresa Berg, making a presentation after our meeting on her trip to Slovenia and Croatia this summer. The ladies enjoyed hearing abotu the travels and also her wonderful display of items she brought back with her, dolls, linens, wooden items, plus a coffee mug with the new Slovenian logo, promoting tourism to Slovenia. Thanks, Tress! Plans were made to celebrate Founder’s Day on November 20, with Mass at 8 a.m., followed by breakfast at the Tower Cafe, offering the bargain Senior breakfast! Fr. Pakiz was invited to be our guest. Marge Skala was to provide the door prize. Theresa Berg, Agnes Mesojedec and Marge Skala agreed to be on the nominating committee, with election of new officers on November 20 also. Winners after our October meeting were Sophie Spollar, Tory Bobence, Lorraine Berg and Angela Tekautz. Adeline Mustonen brought the door prize, won by Marge Skala. Our members, Angeline Morin and Sophie Zupanich were sent cards — Angeline is now at the Eveleth nursing home and Sophie had cataract surgery. Mary Gomick also had cataract surgery this summer. Seventeen of our members attended MN Day in Aurora in September — it was a wonderful convention - one of the best we have had. I won a beautiful afghan made by Barbara Urick, a former Tower resident. My sister, Emma Betoume, won a delicious apple strudel, which she shared with us at our meeting. Winners for the evening were Tory Bobence, Helen Adkisson, Adeline Mustonen and Theresa Berg; the door prize, brought by Angeline Morin, was won by Lucille Svatos. Lucille and Angeline were also hostesses. Our parish is now in the Renew Program and those of us who are meeting in groups have been very pleased with the meetings. Cathy Anderson, who happens to be a granddaughter of Angeline Morin, has been one of the guides for these meetings and has done a terrific job. We are having winter weather, snow is on the ground, so we will just have to settle in and try to enjoy it — but we all still remember how terrible it was last winter! I wish all of you a blessed Christmas, good health and best wishes for the new year - 1997! ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter NO. 35, AURORA, MN A luncheon meeting was held on Aug. 4th to finalize the plans for the S.W.U. State Convention with 20 members present. As I write this report, Fall is in the air and by the time you read this in Dec., Winter will be here. The 39th MN State Convention brought 180 members together including three active members 90 and older! We enjoyed coffee an’ and socializing before the meeting. State President Charlotte Laurich conducted the interesting and infoma-tive meeting. It was good to hear that not many members were lost through direct billing. We were happy to hear our younger members voice their ideas and concerns for the survival of our S.W.U. Thank you! Mass was celebrated by Fr. John Golobich with the Slovenian choir. We honored our Blessed Mother by placing 7 red carnations by her statue while the choir sang, “O Maria pridi knam”. We gathered in our Church hall after mass. Mayor Alan Hodnik welcomed everyone. A delicious meal was catered by Zups and served by our Jr. Members (Ages 8-16) Kyle Janelle and Lindsey Antilla, Ryan Eric and Jenna Koppela, Jennifer Menart and James and David Wheeler. (They also quietly cleared the tables after dinner while the program was on) Alysa and Carolyn Hodnik helped set tables the day before. Our guest speaker was S.W.U. National President Jean Korsman who talked about the interesting life of our S.W.U. founder Marie Prisland, she truly was a lady ahead of her times. Her book “From Here to Slovenia” is in our library, take time to read it. Since today was grandparents day too, Alysa Hodnik read a poem about grandmothers and grandfathers. Thank you Alysa for a job well done! Last but not least, it was time to announce the raffle winners (cash) Elizabeth Spolar, Hibbing; Helen Theno and Tony Gilbert, Ely (Thanks to our top ticket seller Bill Slogar from Ely!) Other winners - Plain Afghan donated by Barbara Urich won by Adeline Mustonen, Soudan; Granny Afghan made by Mrs. Art Ball won by Bernice Ceglar, Aurora; pictures donated by Rhonda Zupančič won by Kathy Sis-kar, Biwabik; strudels - apples and cheese - made by Marilyn Smith won by Emma Betrone, Soudan and Anne Orazem, Aurora. Thank you to everyone who helped in so many ways to make our convention a success and special thanks to all our Jr. members, we are so proud of you! Congratulations to Matthew Hanka (Duluth) who received the Am. All-Slav Assn., James Hunt and U. of Minnesota Merits Scholarship which will pay for most of his education. He is enrolled in pre-medicine at the U. of Minnesota, Minneapolis. Good luck Matthew - (he is the grandson of Katherine and Henry Hanka). John Helen Simonich’s son, Mack, who lives with his wife, Karen and son, Bradley in Highland, Michigan, is employed by Chrysler Corp. and has 2 patents. The first one was done to comply with government regulations to detect failed emission control components and specifically identifies a failed switch in an automatic transmission. The second one reduces exhaust emissions by using an oxygen sensor after the catalytic converter to maintain an optimum fuel air ratio by adjusting the goal voltage of the oxygen sensor in front of the catalyst. He is in the process of applying for another patent now too, hopefully it will be approved. Good luck Mack! To Isle, MN Fall Homecoming King, Joseph Orazem and Sophomore Prince, Robert Orazem. To Aurora Fall Homecoming Princess, Janelle Antilla. To Larry and Janice Grebence who celebrated their 25th Anniversary, wishing you many more years of good health and happiness! Get well wishes to Anna Rose Smolich (we missed you at the convention) and Pres. Frances Holland’s daughter, Linda. I’m happy to report that Nicholas Martinetto is back at school after his heart surgery in August. Sympathy and prayers are with families of Larry Grebence and Helen Simonich who lost their brother Frank, may he rest in peace. A meeting was held on Oct. 27th to make plans for our Advent party on Dec. 8th at the Legion, meeting at 3 p.m., when 1997 dues may be paid. Dinner catered by the Legion Aux. at 4 p.m. Paid reservations must be made by Nov. 30th. A final report was given on the MN SWU Convention by Dorothy Jamnick. Please note our scholarship director is Mary Turvey, 52 Oakridge Dr., Marquette, MI 49855. (Dorothy has the memorial cards.) Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone! ANNE M. ORAZEM NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN One would think that after a two month rest from the task of being the Recording Sec. for SWU I would be eager and ready to face the list meeting of the fall season. Being totally absorbed with enjoying the company of two of my grandchildren I completely forgot about the meeting! to that I can only say — “you win some and you lose some” — and I was forgiven — Bless them! Our meeting of Sept. 4th consisted of 5 positive items which made for pleasant conversation and discussion. Twelve of our members are planning to attend the SWU State Convention hosted by Branch 35 in Aurora on the 8th Sept. is such a beautiful time to take a Sunday drive out toward the northwoods and that is what we will be doing - driving to Aurora! We agreed unanimously to participate in the Tribute our community will be paying to Veda Ponikvar at a banquet in Oct. She has been the owner and editor of our local newspaper for 50 years, a tremendous “mover” in promoting our town and a long standing member of our SWU branch. Veda has endured herself to all and we are glad for this opportunity to say “Thank You.” Because the last two Nov. fund raisers have proved successful we have decided to continue with the Election Day “Zupa pa Kruha” dessert and coffee social. The homemade bags of noodles go fast and we have lots of fun too. In late August Ironworld and the Slovenian Clubs of Chisholm hosted The Gallas Choir Singers from the Slovenian community of Klagenfurt, Austria. I was delighted to be a host family for three of the group - for 3 days and nights, as were many of the other host families. Through their beautiful concert in the open air amphitheater we were transported back to our roots — singing all the way! When I was growing up and for some years beyond — the Eve of All Hallows and All Saint’s Day had its very own time of celebrating. Then came Thanksgiving Day and it too was celebrated without interference. Christmas-followed and it also had its own time of preparation which began in about the 2nd week of Dec. Today is a different story. The clerks of stores large and small work the midnight shift on Halloween night to tear down what was and load the shelves with Christmas gifts and trim ushering in the “Holiday Season” Amongst all this finery and materialism one is hard put to find anything much that would remind us of the true reason for Christmas. — And all the clerks are back to working the midnight shift a day after the holiday tearing everything down and setting up for Valentine’s Day. WHAT HAPPENED? Our branch enjoyed a most successful fund raiser in early Nov. We began a tradition last year — initiating the idea of a home made chicken noodle soup luncheon on election day. After 2 years of great results we decided to claim the idea for Chisholm and do this every Nov. Three of our consistently dedicated and very young members worked hard to put it all together. Jenny Samsa - 91 years young, Fran Zalec, 83 years young and Ann Polichnik - 81 years young. The rest of us struggled to keep up with these gals!!! Our Christmas dinner is planned for mid-Dec. It will be an interesting evening because Veda Ponikvar has consented to be our guest speaker. She will tell us all about her one month visit to Slovenia this past Oct. A tape of children singing Christmas songs in Slovenian should be absolutely delightful. Our Vice Pres. Jenny Briski received the tape from her friend in Koroška. Our 2 pastors, Fr. Daigle and Fr. Gustin along with Sr. Cecilia will be our guests. Chisholm’s popular chef-Rosie Marino who is also a branch member will cater the dinner. She plans to serve a Clark Gable Roast (sounds great to me!) We have some special plans for early spring but I’ll save that for another story. We are reminded in this season of giving of ourselves to remember our sisters in Christ who suffer sickness and set backs in these twilight years. May the PEACE - the JOY and the LOVE of the infant Jesus find its way into your hearts. May the new year find your rich in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. GERT ZAKRAJŠEK NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN Well, summer is over and winter is here. We had our first snow in October so that means Weinachtfest time. Our first meeting in October was planning what we will be doing to earn money for our scholarships and whatever else comes up. For those who don’t know what a Weinachtfest is, its a celebration we hold the first Sat. in December. We have crafts, food, sleigh rides put on by the churches. The most beautiful part is at 6:00 p.m. all the Christmas trees in the Pavillion are lit, a choir sings all beautiful Christmas carols, all the beautiful homes have their lights and decorations to coincide with the town. At six the church bells ring and the fun begins. We will be serving walnut poticas, cottage cheese and apple strudels at the school. This has proud to be profitable because I think we have the best bakers to perform this chore. We also made some plans for our annual Christmas party which we hold in January. We will be having a mass on Nov. 17th for our deceased members. We will attend and show our beautiful banner. Remember, December is election time for new officers. Please attend and we hope you will volunteer for the coming year. We were saddened by the death of Albert Ferkul, son of our faithful mem- Proud grandma, Mary Ferlic sent me this news about her grandkids: Marin Ferlic went to the Dominican Republic for six days where she assisted in various eye surgeries, including cataract extractions and comeal transplants. Meredith Ferlic is at Tennesse Tech where she is studying marketing. She starts on the Women’s Volleyball Team. Manny Teitelbaum studied in the Japanese Insitute at Indiana Univ. He is applying for a Fulbright to study developing labor unions in Sri Lanka and, Dan Teitelbaum is attending Cuyahoga County Community College. Our Mary Gradišek and her husband Dr. Frank celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May the 4th with a Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Peter Church. Their four children and their spouses honored them with a family dinner, and also a reception for family, relatives and close friends at Spitzer Plaza Hotel. They also have 6 grandchildren and Mary said it was a beautiful, fun-filled celebration. bers Maria and Stan Ferkul. May he rest in peace. God Bless. ANGIE HIETALA Recording Secretary Frank W. Pavlovčič of Brighton, MI was accepted into the school of osteopathic medicine at Michigan State University. Frank graduated in May from Michigan State. He also played in the Drum & Bugle Corp. for two years with the Madison Scouts from Madison, WI. Francine Pavlovčič is his proud grandmom. My grandson, Tony Mercurio has been promoted ot marketing manager, Marshall, MI by Westfield Insurance Co., where he will be opening a new office for the company. In August our Molly Glavan had a visitor from Ljubljana, Slovenia, Anton Štukelj, a relative of her late husband. It was a very enjoyable reunion. He brought her news about the Glavan relatives in Ljubljana. Before he left he presented her with a beautiful piece of bobbin lace and Molly gave him a coffee mug with the inscription “It’s in every Slovenian!” (LOVE) Our Agatha & William Donges celebrated their 58th Wedding Anniversary recently. Best wishes to all! I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. God bless you all. Love, MARY MATOS Now that the busy holiday season is approaching, we hope that some of our other members will take the second Wednesday of the month off to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with us. Our Pres, was absent and Agatha opened our meeting with prayer. I won the door prize. Thanks to Agatha who pulled my number. We made plans for our Christmas Dinner. It will take place at 12:30 p.m. at the German Villa on Dec. 3rd. Reservations required call 288-8002 if you have any questions. NO. 40, LORAIN, OH We were disappointed that only 11 came to our Oct. meeting to enjoy the delicious dessert that Francine and I served for the last few months our attendance has been less and less due to sickness of our faithful members who are our Angie Tomazin, Jean Balogh, Agnes Serazin, Alice Rutar, and Rose Knezetic. Let’s all pray for their quick recovery. George and Mary Ferlic (right), are a handsome couple, and a very joyful one, too, as they have just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They had a Mass of Thanksgiving, received a Papal Blessing and celebrated with their family of three children, George, Jr., Joyce Arredondo and Mary Teitelbaum along with six grandchildren. Congratulations! NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH Season’s Greetings to our wonderful Branch 42 members! The year has quickly passed and the holidays are here once again. Branch 42 members will have a Christmas luncheon on Saturday, December 14, at 1:00 p.m. at Sterle’s Country House at East 55th and St. Clair in Cleveland. The cost of the social is $15.00 per person which includes a complete dinner with tax and tip. Members should send checks to Marge Church no later than Saturday, December 7, payable to SWU Branch 42. Everyone is invited. Members also enjoyed a floral arrangement session with Novak’s Flowers at their November 9th meeting. Anniversary congratulations are sent to Mr. and Mrs. Mehosky and Frank and Albie Mroczka on their 50th celebrations. Mr. and Mrs. Mroczka had a party at the Winsburg Recreation Center given to them by their daughters, Jeanette and Diane, and grandchildren Christopher, Daniel, Kimberly, Christopher Jr. and Bobby, on November 2. The couple received a proclamation from Bishop Pilla and the Mayor Incorvaia. Our warmest wishes go to both families. Branch sympathies are extended to the families of Jennie Milavec and Jennie Intihar. Marge Church is recovering from eye surgery and Marge Zupančič is recuperating from back surgery. Please remember them with cards. Birthday greetings to our December and January ladies: Donna Stubljer, Julia Lipnos, Beth Agnes Carroll, Eleanor Lipnos, Albina Skocaj, Jennifer Lockard, Frances Wenckus, Marge Church, Christine Hajek, Kelly Ann Gaines, Mary Perko, Karen Lockard and Camille Lao. DIANE BALACH NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Now that the ZARJA isn’t published each month I will have much to write. On Sept. 8th we enjoyed a wonderful day in Sheboygan. We had an enjoyable group on the bus. We attended Mass at St. Cyril & Methodius Church followed by a wonderful breakfast which included potica and strudel. Our convention meeting followed. I believe Maya Zelaya with her mom, Kyle and grandmom, Rose Lee Otto. Her great grandmother is the late Rose Kraemer. details will be published in the next issue of ZARJA. We then were treated to Hors d’oeuvres and a delicious dinner, enjoying dinner music and a sing-a-long by Frank Verant on the accor-dian. We were also entertained by Kathy and Jim Gorton with songs from South Pacific, Sound of Music and others. Franz Schubert’s Ave Maria was sung by Kathy, and the program was concluded with all of us singing Let there be peace on earth. On October 4th we had our Autumn Harvest Banquet honoring our 50 year members Rose Le Otto, and Judith Delopst Re-chlitz. Also in attendance was our youngest member, Maya Zelaya, granddaughter of Rose Lee Otto. All of our members and friends, who attended, enjoyed Hors d’oeuvres and a family style dinner with flancati and ice cream for dessert. Table favors and center pieces were the creation of our Rose Lee. We were entertained by our Mladinski Zbor Uspeh under the direction of Mici Bregant. Nine Young girls and one young boy singing in Slovenian, and Mici asked them if they know the English version of the songs, and much to our surprise, they knew it. A good job by Mici. Our October meeting was opened with a prayer. Minutes were read and the financial report was given. All was approved. We discussed our Christmas Party which will be on December 7th at Klemmers starting at 12:30p.m. Reservations must be made. Call Josephine at 545-0691 or me at 871-8295. Members are asked to bring one dozen cookies. Our next meeting will be on November 20th, same place, same time. Hoping to see you there. ANNE E. KONCZAL 50, CLEVELAND, OH Dober Dan! Most of the news in this issue of ZARJA almost was ready for the previous issue printed in the Sept/ Oct. issue, but released before August 1st. Are you confused? Well, bear with this - it’s news, nevertheless. Good things are happening among our young ones. After one and a half years in Seoul, South Korea, Adrienne Radcliff, granddaughter of our member, Jo Smith, returned this summer to San Francisco. While in So. Korea, she visited the disputed former lost war area of Viet Nam and Thailand. In August, she headed for the Czech Republic to teach English. More power to Adrienne; while enjoying her life, she is sharing her knowledge with others. Another pleasantry happened to one of our members, namely Bonnie Blatnik, who was named as one of the outstanding educators of the Euclid Teachers’ Association. She was hailed as a most dedicated teacher who has been appreciated and respected by the students, staff and parents within the Euclid School System. We too are proud to have Bonnie as a member of our Branch 50. (See picture, pg. 39). We had a roaring time at our Picnic on Sept. 18th within the Euclid Club House. The day was as beautiful as were the 84 members - plus, who attended. Kenny King caterers outdid themselves, and we in-did ourselves with the delicious spread and the wholesome comraderie. No meeting is scheduled in January, no ZARJA will be issued either. Our 65th anniversary celebration will be held at our Christmas dinner on Dec. 8th, 1996 at 1:00 p.m. in Recher Hall/ Slovenian Society Home. Tickets for this event must be purchased in advance, preferably at our November meeting, Nov. 20th, otherwise, order reservations directly per Dorothy Ann Winters, 481-3472. It is imperative to know who and how many will be attending this worthwhile event. Please come. We wish the following get well wishes and hope you are all on the mend at this time. Mitzi Bencin, Mary Frank, Nancy Mramor, Albina Mršnik, Justine Pieman, Bertha Vidmar. Also, Marlena Blatnik and Holly Blatnik were in a Bonnie is indeed a Bonnie Lass”! Lodge 50 members, Evelyn Pipoly, Bonnie Blatnik, Mary Blatnik, Cathy Blatnik, and Lillian Homar attended a social on May 31, 1996 to honor Bonnie Blatnik as one of Euclid’s Outstanding Educators. The award was presented to our member by the Euclid Teachers’ Association of Euclid, Ohio. bad accident recently in Rowlet, Texas. Robert Blatnik, their husband and father, had 5 by-pass heart surgery not too long ago. Enough is enough! Our sympathy goes to Anna Glavic and to Tony Petkovšek in the loss of Frank Petkovšek, Anna’s brother and Tony’s uncle. Frank’s nephew, Tony is the Radio Man who does such a super job broadcasting our Slovenian news and good music every day on Station WELW - 1330 on your dial. We wish to thank Rose Ziherl for the generous donation in memory of her sister Mary Cesnik. With this issue we almost by-pass our most important holidays. Thanksgiving has passed. Let’s hope all your prayers were answered. For Christmas, may peace and joy dwell in your hearts forever. And for the New Year! IZZY sez, “The optimist stays up ’till midnight on New Year’s Eve to see the New Year in. The pessimist stays up to make sure it’s gone.” “Vesele Božične praznike and all that good stuff. Make way for 1997. Nasvidenje! VI MORAVCHEK NO. 54, WARREN, OH Our branch has some very sad news to report. Our beloved president, Jo Kassan’s son, Joseph, 43 years old passed away on August 4th very unexpectedly. He had a massive heart attack. He was such a devoted son and so caring and helpful to Jo, who has been ailing and in fact that day, fell and fractured some ribs and had other injuries. His wake was the largest we had been to and his funeral procession had 60 cars. He was buried from St. James Church where he had grown up at and he was buried at All Souls Cemetery. He leaves besides, Jo, his wife Joan and sister, Barbara Jaras and brother, Jim. He will be sadly missed. May you rest in peace, Joe. Jo Kassan is slowly recuperating and will be having a pace maker treatment this week. We all send our prayers to her. Get well to our spiritual adviser, Father Crumbley, who had heart surgery. Our sympathy to Mary Zuga, on the death of her brother. Happy 69th wedding anniversary to our member, Anne Savor and Martin. They are amazing. Traveling, going to Slovenian picnics in the area and she’s a great cook too! Happy 95th birthday to Mr. Savor, who still drives to Mass and short trips around town. * * * It is with sadness that I write this article. Our beloved president, Jo Kassan, 75 years of age, passed away on October 11,1996, just two months after her son died suddenly. Jo had been in failing health for the last few years but never lost her spunkiness or love for our branch. She was dearly loved and cared for by her family, especially her daughter, Barbara Jaros and husband Ray. Her remaining son, Jim, came from South Carolina to help out and enjoyed visiting with Jo. She was bom in Colorado and came to Warren in 1938. She was married to Andrew Kassan for 28 years before his death in 1978. She was an active member of St. James Church, when she belonged to Altar & Rosary Society, had been president of over 50 Club, and several other organizations. She became our president in 1980 after, my mom, Rose Racher and Jo’s aunt resigned because of ill health. She loved our meetings and our special luncheons, and always made certain that we had favors and candy for each of us. She loved Slovenian music and polka dancing. She had a large funeral and our members prayed at her bier. She was laid to rest at All Souls Cemetery. We will miss her so much! May you rest in peace, dear one. Our sympathy to all her loved ones. We will have our Christmas luncheon on December 18, at 1:00 p.m. at the Elks Club Room, Rt. 422. You are asked to bring a $5.00 gift exchange, paper products for our raffle and a door prize or cookies. I will be calling you, so please come and join us for an afternoon of togetherness. Congratulations to Samantha Brdek, granddaughter of Anne Brdek, our new president; she received a scholarship to Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland and Ryan Rek, attending University of South Carolina, grandson of Isabelle Rek. Merry Christmas and a blessed and a Happy Healthy New Year to all. We will try to meet in February, weather permitting. “Vesele Praznike” JOANNE PONIKVAR Reporter NO. 55, GIRARD, OH Happy Thanksgiving! We thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the many blessings He has bestowed upon our nation, S. W. U., and our families. Dori, our previous reporter, was a beautiful bride and had a lovely wedding. Her gown was just gorgeous. She is now in Michigan and settling in her new home. We pray the Lord’s abundant blessings upon her and Tom. Rose Juvancic’s grandson, John Forde, is at Xavier University in Cincinnati. Another grandson, Ryan Mirto celebrated his 5th birthday September 27th with a party. Andrea Selak, our president’s daughter, is a Freshman at Notre Dame in Indiana. In August, Kavika Twaddle and his daughters, Sheree and Christine, visited three weeks with his parents Joan and Dave Twaddle. It was wonderful to have my family together again. We extend our deepest sympathy to Jenny Selak and her family on the passing of her husband, Stanley Selak, July 6, 1996. Mr. Selak was Maria Selak’s father-in-law and Andrea Selak’s grandfather. Mr. and Mrs. Selak were also my grandparents, Joseph and Mary Cekuta, neighbors in Girard for many years. My grandmother, Mary Cekuta and mother, Mary Cekuta Kristin were charter members of Branch 55. Our November birthdays: Joan Twaddle, Ivanka Selak and Katherine Sefcik. “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:20 * * * Merry Christmas! What a wonderful time of year! The world celebrates the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Our Branch has wonderful and exciting news. We are pleased to announce the engagement and forth coming marriage of Anka Kregar to Michael Krak-ora. The wedding will take place June 28, 1997. Anka is secretary-treasurer of Branch 55. We are so happy for them and extend our sincerest conratu-lations and the Lord’s blessings upon them. The Christmas party was held December 4th in conjunction with AMLA-SDZ members. The next meeting at the Girard Library is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 1997. December brithdays: Helen Dagati, Gala Jhoss, Ivanka Florjančič and Rose Juvančič. January birthdays; Mary Kristin, Anna Catone, Dolores De-Pietro, Daniel Gordon and Jessica Gordon. “And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21 JOAN KRISTIN TWADDLE, Reporter NO. 55, GIRARD, OH On Saturday, August 17, 1996, Dori Kregar was married to Thomas Fooy. The ceremony (Mass took place at 2:30). Prior to the Mass, Dori’s sisters, Anka, Martha, and Maria sang a Slovenian song, “Marija Skoz Življenje”. Dori looked like a princess as she was escorted down the aisle by her father, Frank Kregar. Her mother, Milka, had tears of joy as she saw her daughter being given away to Tom. How lucky they both are to have found one another. After the church service, Dori, Tom and the entire wedding party took an enjoyable ride on a trolly. They drove through the city of Niles. Later on in the day, they received guests at Mollica’s Banquet Center. Many other Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Fooy “Slovenian” traditions went on at the reception. The most touching tradition was the “unveiling ceremony.” They honeymooned in Aruba and now are living in Warren, Michigan. The family misses Dori’s and Tom’s smiling faces, but they had to move because of Tom’s promotion. Tom is the manager of a Red Wing Shoe store and Dori works with computers at a nearby college. Dori and her sisters, Maria and Anka, and her mother Milka, and nieces Monica and Andrea and nephew Mark are all members of SWU Branch 55 in Girard, Ohio. Dori has met some wonderful SWU ladies in the Warren, Michigan area and may get involved with that branch. We all wish Dori and Tom the best of everything. Bog Živi! ANKA KREGAR NO. 56, HIBBING, MN On August 20, 1996 a special meeting was held at First Ave. Apartments at 7:30 p.m. Concerning the convention in Aurora: Meeting opened with prayer for our deceased and sick members. Milena Kalar made a motion, members have to at least attend four meetings a year to be eligible for part payment for their dinner. This was seconded by Mary Sikich. This will be effective Sept. 1996. Our Slovenian Women’s Union lost a charter member, Amelia Domen on July 24, 1996. Mass for our deceased members was held on Nov. 10, 1996 at the 10:30 Mass at St. Leo’s Church. Birthdays for August were recognized. We sang happy birthday to our members absentia. Lunch for Sept. 3, 1996 meeting was served by Liz Spolar, Mary Sikich and Rose Maras. Jackpot won by Ann Voiovich; Bunko, Jennie Fator; 500 Liz Spolar; Cannasta Jen Obert. On September 3, 1996, the Ladies of SWU, Br. 56 held their meeting at First Ave. Apt. at 7:30 p.m. Birthdays for September were recognized. No new or old discussions so the meeting closed with prayers for our sick and deceased members. Jackpot was won by Ann Satovich. Bunco - Edith Jones; Cannasta - Agnes Barkis; 500 - Mary Micheletti. Lunch committee for October were Ann Satovich, Fran Tobey and Ann Barkis. * * * Oct. 1, 1996: The Ladies of SWU, Br. 56 of Hibbing held their meeting at First Ave. Apt. at 7:30 p.m. Meeting called to order, prayers were said. Milena Kahler made a motion not to donate to scholarship fund. It was seconded by Mary Massich. Ten members from Hibbing attended the convention at Aurora. Elizabeth Spolar made a motion to have our Christmas party at Sammy’s Restaurant, it will be on our meeting night Dec. 3, 1996. Milenna Kahler will check out the menu and prices and also if we can hold our meeting there and card games after. Seconded by Ann Satovich. Lunch committee for our Nov. 5 meeting were as follows: Valeria Carlson, Milena Kahler and Romolase Perprunner. Birthdays for Oct. were recognized. No further discussions. Meeting closed with prayers. Bunko won by Ann Voiovich. Can-nasta - Ann Shubert and 500 - Mary Micheletti. EDITH JONES, Rec. Sec. NO. 57, NILES, OH On July 9th we held our Annual Picnic meeting and Luncheon at the “Shepherd Home”. Our menu was a regular picnic lunch. We had eleven members present. After our lunch was cleared away; we had a gift exchange. We did nto have any members as hostesses for our picnic as we had each member bring a dollar gift to exchange. We also played Bingo and enjoyed the afternoon visiting. We sang happy birthday to Ann Pease as she celebrated her birthday in July. Our hostesses for our August meeting: Esther Logar and Mary Lukez. On August 13th, we met at the “Shepherd Home” with a lovely lunch. Our President opened our meeting with a prayer; the minutes of the previous meeting were read as were the treasurer reports. We had eleven members present. Charlotte Lah and her family spent a lovely vacation going to Charleston, S.C. for 3 days and also spent a week in Fayetsville, GA to see the Olympics. Ann Pease spent 3 weeks with her son in Willington, OH, Frances Mollis and her daughter from Cheyenne were here to spend a week with her sister Ann and relatives. We spent the afternoon playing Bingo with Mary Lukz and Esther Logar being our hostesses. Jane Logar brought in a very nice gift which was won by Ann Dzeda. Birthdays celebrated in August were Denise Bahn. Stay healthy and we look forward to seeing you. * * * Our Sept. 10th meeting was held at the “Shepherd Home” with 9 members present. Our Vice President Julie Sherlock presided at the meeting in the absence of our president. We opened our meeting with a prayer. We talked about plans for our further meetings; as we do not have very many members attending our meetings. We decided to have one member as our hostess for each month which should work out very well. We also talked about cancelling meetings for Jan. and Feb. of next year as we cannot depend on having good weather. Our hostesses for Sept. were Julie Sherlock and Marge Mollica. In October it was Elizabeth Havaich and Helen Misel. Birthdays celebration in Sept. were Frances Mollis and Ann Dzeda. We should all be receiving our direct billing statements soon; as of our last meeeting no one has received theirs yet. We closed our meeting and had a lovely lunch and later played a few games and won prizes brought in by our hostesses. Stay healthy and God bless you all. FRANCES STANEC NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH We had our cookout on August 4th and were blest with a beautiful sunny day. We sat outside under the trees (no need for shelter from rain this year). Pete Yuratovac was honorary cook again and did a great job on the hot dogs. He must have a special recipe because they were luscious. Our buffet table was filled with all sorts of goodies. Naturally, the pastry end drew the most attention. No one left the party hungry or thirsty. With about thirty members/guests in attendance, it was a day truly enjoyed by everyone. Those of you who did not attend, you don’t know what you missed. A few SŽZ members enjoyed St. Ann’s Day at the Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha. mass was celebrated by abbot Gries. The luncheon that followed was a very nice. This day is sponsored by the First Slovak Catholic Women’s Union and is always well attended. I was unable to join the “caravan” that traveled to Pymatuming to visit the Zupančič Girls. Heard that it was a delightful trip. News is scarce this month (again). It would be nice to hear from you about things that are happening in your life. Sometimes I find it necessary to keep a journal just to remind myself of all that happens. Seems almost impossible to think that there is so much “nothing” going on around us. Alouise (662- 5310) is always ready and willing to take you bit of news. We were sorry to hear that George Brindza had to spend a few days in the hospital. George is the handsome man you always see behind “Babe’s” wheelchair. We are glad to hear that Tracey took time to help out her aunt during Uncle George’s absence. Our sincere wishes for a speedy recovery. * * * Happy New Year to everyone. It is hard to believe that we have turned the pages on another year. For many it was a good year, for others, they are glad it has finally ended. Whatever your feelings, let’s hope that we all have a fresh start, and that in twelve months we will be able to look back at what has transpired in each of our lives. As I write this article, there is an air of gloom over Branch 73, on Friday, October 25th, our beloved President, Kay Yuratovac, had to face what all of us dread, the loss of her husband, Pete. Death came swiftly and suddenly to Pete and left everyone in a state of shock. Having been to the doctor during the week, and complaining of what would be considered minor pains of aging, Pete became very ill, a triple bypass was considered, to be followed by carotid artery surgery. While Kay was visiting Pete, things changed drastically and within a few minutes, Pete had to answer the call placed to him. Pete was not just another guy. Pete was as much a member of Branch 73 as was his wife. He was our musician, he was our chef, he kept up with every activity we had. He attended conventions, he transported members, he was always with us. He had a three piece band that “gave” of themselves for many functions. To say we will miss Pete is one thing, the manner in which he will be missed by so many others is something else. Kay, our feelings for you are deep. The pain that you feel is felt by all of us. Our loss is minor compared to the loss you suffer. Please, take care of yourself, know that our thoughts and prayers remain with you. When the time comes for your to return to our group, we will be waiting there to welcome you. On a lighter note, our congratulations go out to Judy Tintera who once again has been made a great, great grandma. These precious babies make each day a little easier to greet. Best wishes to Grandma, Mama and baby. In September, Tim and Gloria Dusek (our recording secretary) welcomed a new daughter-in-law into the family, when the son Paul married Renee. The wedding was beautiful and was enjoyed by so many. We wish the newlyweds the best of everything that life has to offer. The flu bug is making its rounds in our area. We hope that any members that are effected will follow doctors orders. Stay indoors, take that medicine, get your proper rest and get well sooner. No meetings in January or February. Please let us see all of you in March, and remember our Anniversary Mass will be on the Sunday after Easter, St. Jude’s Church, 10:30 o’clock a.m. And the Knights of Columbus will be expecting us for breakfast. Please join us for this annual gathering. Respectfully submitted, EVELYN A. MAJERCIK NO. 85, DE PUE, IL The wind is blowing so hard and all the leaves (plus a lot of my pears) are coming off the trees. It makes us think that winter is fast approaching. I have to compliment Branch 2 for hosting a lovely State Convention. Everything was done to perfection. I always enjoy the Slovenian singing during the church service and I thought the Slovenian Choir was outstanding. I would like to also congratulate our new state president and vice president. I am sure they will do a terrific job. Our deepest sympathy to Jackie Barto, her sister Beverly Stuart and their families on the passing of their father and grandfather Frank Benkse. Their mother, Connie, a long-time member of Branch 85 passed away last November. Both had been ill for a long time. Jackie is also one of our long-time members. Our best wishes to Kristy Lavrin, daughter of Mildred Lavrin who became the bride of Roger W. Evans. May they have a long and happy marriage. My cousin, Ron Strle has become the owner of the legendary Joliet restaurant Stefanich’s. It is well known for its fried chicken and now Ron also serves lunches. Recently 10 of my cousins, my sister and sister-in-law surprised me with a birthday dinner there, it is a very nice place. The food was delicious and the company “great.” Our best wishes to Ron. I am sure he will do well as he has a lot of personality. (We welcome an advertisement for Stefanich’s in this ZARJA! Ed.) Father Bernard had the Slovenian litany on October 20 followed by a pot luck dinner with the help of his sister Jo Foley and her helpers. This year the Slovenska Pesem Chorus of Lemont also gave a concert in the Church. It is always a nice gathering and good that we can still have something in Slovenian here. By the time the next ZARJA comes out we will be in close to another year. My best wishes to everyone for a very Merry and Joyous Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year 1997. God bless. MARY JERMENC NO. 102, WILLARD, WI We held a meeting on Aug. 15th beginning with a potluck meal, preceded by a prayer. A birthday song was sung for Edith Backus. Joanne Trunkel was honored as the Mother of the Year. She received a beautiful card and a gift of money from our club. Vicki Krultz and Sophie Trunkel brought red carnations for her. Jean Govek of Willard and Betty (Volovsek) Fraid of West Allis attended the SWU Convention in Sheboygan on Sept. 7th. Frank and Rose Pakiz and their daughter, Patrice left for Slovenia on Aug. 19th for a vacation. Most of the students are doing well in school this year. They need our guidance in the importance of education, moral training, and welfare. Many weddings were held in the past few months. John Verhunce and Luz-viminda Bingcang were married in the Philippines on June 18th. JoAnn Backus and Jeffrey Lukes were married on July 15th. Ree Kozik and Randy Susa were married on July 13th. The marriage of Michelle Volovsek and Clay Herron took place on Aug. 3rd. Michelle’s cousin, Heather Volovsek and Jon Renteria were married on the same day. David Zukowski and Kathy Wilczek’s marriage was held on Aug. 10th while Traci Krultz and Dean Lindner’s wedding was held on Aug. 17th. Darin Bogdonovich and Kim Lewis were married on Aug. 31st. Melanie Lamovec and William Kind were married on Sept. 14th. CCW of Holy Family Parish of Willard was established in 1946, so a special 50-year celebration was planned for October. Ed and Josephine Bayuk celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 1st; the reception and dinner was held at the Parish Center. The 60th wedding anniversary of Frank and Mary Parkel was held at their home in Plover, WI on Saturday, Sept. 7th. It was attended by many of their friends and relatives. Frank and Mary are formerly from Willard. Our congratulations to both of the couples. Doris Auman died on Aug. 8th after spending a couple of years at the Neillsville Nursing Home. Andrew Verhunce, formerly of Willard, died on Aug. 13th. He was 91 years old. Condolences to both families. Let’s remember in our prayers the shut-ins, all who are in nursing homes or in the hospital. * * * On Sept. 8th, Msgr. Malnar held services in Independence, WI with blessings of statues, etc. Singing was provided by the Polish Choir of Independence, and the Willard Slovenian singers. Austin James Bayuk, 10-day old son of Timothy and Joan Bayuk died on Sept. 14th at the hospital in Neenah, WI. Condolences to Ed and Jo Bayuk. My grandson, Lee Klancher and Renee Latterell were married on Oct. 5th in St. Cloud, MN at the Christ Catholic Church. I baked potica and apple strudel for the wedding dinner. Music during the ceremony was provided by Patrice Pakiz. She and her band also played for the evening dance. Joe Hribar passed away on Sept. 9th. We were all shocked by the news of Marion Herrick’s unexpected death on Sept. 22nd. Her death was caused by a lawn mower tipping over on her. She was a member of our branch and secretary of the Slovenska Družba. Funeral services were held on Sept. 26th at the Holy Family Church. Our sincere sympathy to all families. Our prayers are with all who are ail- ing, in the hospital, or in the Nursing Home. We wish them all the best of health. FRIEDA KLANCHER NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C. Branch 103 convened on Sunday, September 15, for its first meeting after the summer vacation. This was indeed a most unusual summer. It seems there was no part of our great country not touched by some inclement or disastrous events, such as tornados, floods, overabundance of rain causing water to rise overnight, etc. Somehow, we always survive these disasters without too many catastrophes. Our meeting was short, but productive. Our new member, Andrea Gorra, gave a very informative and interesting account of the “International Peace Garden Tour” to Slovenia she enjoyed last May. It was amazing how many members of her family she met for the first time and enjoyed visiting with them. She showed the many lovely pictures taken of her travels through beautiful Slovenia. This was certainly an incentive for us to seriously consider a visit to our ethnic land from which our parents, grandparents, etc., came. Those who recently immigrated to our country surely must wish to make another visit to their homeland. Thank you, Andrea, for this most interesting report. We were pleased and honored to welcome Corinne Leskovar, Editor of ZARJA, upon her visit to Washington, D.C. to attend the September 7, 25th Anniversary of the Dedication of the Slovenian Chapel of Our Lady of Brezja in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. It’s always great to have Corinne visit us. Some time ago, Molly Thomas broker her wrist; because of complications, she has been suffering much pain and may need additional surgery. Let’s all remember Molly in our prayers and hope all goes well with her speedy recovery. Also, Freda Michelitch is recovering from some medical problems; with our prayers she, too, will recover quickly. It’s appropriate at this time to extend a big thanks to our member, Irene Odorizzi, the National Heritage Director, for her many concerns and good deeds she extends to everyone. She donated a very lovely insignia depicting the letters “SWU” with Slovenian and USA flags to complete the arrangement. This beautiful arrangement will be a permanent centerpiece for all meetings and appropriate occasions. Also, for a special treat at this meeting, she furnished a basket filled with a special homemade candy roses, each molded on a stick—this required many hours in making; Sabina Bartol spent many hours wrapping each piece-a very professional job. Many thanks to Irene, and thanks to Sabina for her help, and to Sabina’s son, Michael for acting as courier on many occasions. Finally, we are pleased to report that our branch continues to grow. Let me take this opportunity to extend a word of welcome to each new member, and hope to see you often at our meetings and functions. Irene Odorizzi has a great record as a recruiter new members. Her recent enrolees are Kristina Robinson and her daughter, Natalie (Junior member); also an associate member, Michael J. Kastello. Congratulations are also extended to Nika Kovacic for all the new members she has recruited for Branch 103. Her friendliness, knowledge of our organization, and her devotion to the SWU are commendable. Wishing everyone a very enjoyable Thanksgiving-a most beautiful holiday when family and friends make an effort to get together for a bountiful dinner, and giving thanks for all our blessings. * * * What a beautiful time of year it was when enjoyed the crisp cool breezes and the beautiful colorful leaves on the trees. By the time this article is published, we will well into the winter-mild, I hope. Our October meeting was well represented, and it was a pleasure to welcome three new members—Metka Luckmann, her sister Maya Mar-garonis, and Lynn Koiner. We are delighted that they have joined our group, and hope to see them at all our meetings and functions. Bernadette Fitzsimmons was accompanied by her son, Matthew (who has long passed his first birthday). What a beautiful, delightful child! This meeting was mostly devoted to socializing, viewing many Slovenian books and artifacts, and taking chances on a variety of items that will be perfect for Christmas gifts, especially appropriate for children. Many proposals were touched upon for the future and will be discussed in depth at the next meeting. Our hostesses, Sabina Bartol, Loretta Kennedy, and Tončka Cigale served a beautiful buffet of desserts, using the October motif in decoration. Thank you ladies for your efforts in making this a truly enjoyable get-to-gether. As always, Branch 103 wishes to extend best wishes to everyone for the holdiays that are fast approaching. Finally, let’s not forget to offer our prayers for those who have passed on, and those who are incapacitated. Molly Thomas is still suffering with her injured wrist-let’s remember her in our prayers and hope for a rapid healing. MATILDA AUSICH LETTERS: I sure enjoy reading the ZARJA. It has a lot of interest articles every time. It keeps me in touch with my friends at St. Joseph’s which I miss since moving down here. Best wishes, always. Sophia M. Dirker Mountain Home, Arkansas Pre-Holiday Heavenly Delights COOKBOOK SALE 90th Anniversary Edition Begins Nov. 1 $10.00 (Formerly $12.00) St. Mary Nativity Church 706 N. Broadway Joliet, IL 60435 (815) 726-4031 Features ethnic recipes as well as familiar favorites. Mailed price, including postage - $13.00 Br. 105 kitchen crew, left to right, Frances Adamic, Rita At the 70th Anniversary: Patricia Adamic, Dori Fooy, Hostnik, Kathleen Emerson, Marian Volpe, Anna Marian Volpe, Rita Hostnik, Mary Jane Smith and Pat Klančnik. Hostnik. NO. 105, DETROIT, MI October 12th was the date and the Slovene-American Club in Melvindale, MI was the place. Branch 105 held a celebration in honor of 70 years for the SWU and the 5 years of Independence for Slovenia. Over 100 people came to celebrate with us. The theme of the party was multicultural and the tables were decorated with flags from different countries with placemats in the colors of the flags. The Slovenian and American flags were prominent on the bandstand where the Eddie Adamic Orchestra played for our dancing and listening pleasure. Members prepared and served the family style dinner which also celebrated the multicultural theme. We also donated the many desserts which graced our dessert table which was in charge of Dori Fooy from the Girard, Ohio Branch, who moved here after her recent marriage. Many of our members wore traditional Slovenian outfits and added another touch of color to the Hall. While there was a lot of hard work involved in having this celebration, the members and their guests enjoyed the evening and our treasury benefited from the proceeds. We hope to do something similar in the future. More good news. The Slovene-American Club and the SNPJ Northern Home will hold their second Michigan Polkafest in July, 1997. We plan to have a booth again next year, and will feature items made by our members as well as those we purchase from the Home Office in Joliet. At this year’s Polkafest, we sold $987.75 worth of Heritage items from Joliet. Not bad for a few determined women lead by our President, Kathleen Emerson, Yola Roel, and Sharon Wysocky. Our October meeting was well attended and the two members who did come in costume were awarded prizes. Several additional members wore cleverly decorated sweatshirts with charitable donation to Habitat for Humanity - Slovenia this year. This particular charity is being sponsored by the Slovene National Benefit Society and we feel that the money will be put to good use. We also voted to have members purchase and deliver flowers to our shut-ins for Christmas. At our November meeting we will make Christmas swags under the direction of Sharon Wysocky. This meeting will be on November 23rd at 1:00 p.m. at my home in Warren. Don’t forget our Christmas Party on December 7th at the popular Meriweather’s Restaurant. Call (810) 751-0513 for reservations. Guests are welcome for this party and we will have our usual gift exchange. Don’t forget canned goods for the Turning Point Shelter for battered women and children. With our best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year to our National Officers, members of other branches and to our own members. PATRICIA ADAMIC THANK YOU FOR ZARJA DONATIONS Thanks to our new regular advertiser, Stefanich’s Restaurant in Joliet, Illinois, (at the same time the owner, Rich Strle joined as an Associate member!) - and we are proud of two of our members who have undertaken some exciting business ventures and are sharing them with us. Jean Križman (50) offers her own cookbook and Bernice Krašovec (3) tells us about the availability of her children’s storybook. Bernice’s Bakery returns with their offer of poticas for the holdiays. Memorials were sent by Jo Lustik (20) and Albina Skocaj (42). Thanks to all Donations: Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH Rose Ceferin (2) Helen Sturm (50) Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH tJennie Milavec Jo Lustik (20) tJos. & Mary Vidmar Albina Skocaj (42) tChristine Skocaj tJennie Milavec Donations for pictures: Br. 33 ($); Br. 14 ($5); Br. 103 ($10); Br. 105 ($10) Mollie Matuska (10) 10 $25 10 10 25 25 - parents 15 15 HE WAS A GENTLE MAN, A MAN OF PEACE The American Catholic world mourns the passing of the “Man of Peace" Joseph Cardinal Bernardin, Archbishop of Chicago and one of the most noble princes of the Church. He taught us what it means to live in gentleness and kind humanity and to die in God’s grace. Cardinal Bernardin will be remembered for many things - by each person who ever met him or knew of him - because his presence left a lasting impression of caring and love. Slovenians may wish to remember him for yet another reason, because Cardinal Bernardin loved us through Baraga and our Slovenian religious history. He accepted all requests from the Bishop Baraga Association and raised our celebration of Bishop Baraga Days in Chicago in 1990 through his celebration of mass and his eloquent homily on the meaning and life of the missionary bishop. With Cardinal Bernardin’s death we have all learned a lesson that may be the most important one we have ever been taught or gained in life’s experience, the lesson that life is a blessing of God, our Creator, and that death is the passing of life to a greater and happier place where God awaits with a warm and loving embrace. EDITOR Škof Anton M. Slomšek svetnik? MARIBOR, 11. - Več kot polstoletni postopek za tako imenovano beatifikacijo dr. Antona Martina Slomška, lavantinskega škofa, šolnika (avtorja znamenite knjižice Blaže in Nežica v nedeljski šoli), pesnika, politika in narodnega buditelja, se bliža koncu. Anton Martin Slomšek naj bi tako v dolgi zgodovini Katoliške cerkve postal prvi slovenski svetnik. 0 dolgem in natančnem postopku za beatifikacijo smo se pogovarjali z dr. Marjanom Turnškom, vicepos-tulatorjem (pospeševalcem) v postopku, sicer pa docentom za dogmatiko na Teološki fakulteti in rektorjem bogoslovja v Mariboru. Za blažene oziroma za svetnike Vatikan razglasi tiste cerkvene može, za katere je mogoče dokazati, da so vsaj na koncu svojega življenja živeli svetniško oziroma, kot temu pravijo teologi, so živeli krščansko življenje na herojski stopnji. Pomembno je tudi, ali so se oziroma se še na priprošnjo k njim dogajajo čudeži. Sam postopek je zelo natančno določen. Vse dosegljivo gradivo o kandidatu za svetnika na podlagi »glasu svetosti« najprej razišče in popiše komisija v domači cerkveni skupnosti. Če so rezultati raziskave prepričljivi - če torej komisija ugotovi, da gre res za izredno mero krepostnega življenja - gradivo pošlje v Rim, kjer se začne tako imenovani apostolski postopek. Ko se in če se o gradivu pozitivno izreče kongregacija za svetnike, dobi kandidat za svetnika naziv »božji služabnik«. Nato strokovnjaki za in v imenu kongregacije napišejo tako imenovano zgodovinsko pozicijo. V njej je treba natančno in verodostojno popisati življenje in delo kandidata in vse trditve o svet-niškosti in čudežih dokumentirati (čudeže po teološki in medicinski plati) in dokazati. Zgodovinsko pozicijo nato znova preuči omenjena vatikanska kongregacija in če dobi vsaj dvetretjinsko podporo, lahko papež kandidata razglasi za blaženega. Do kanonizacije ali razglasitve za svetnike pride nekoliko pozneje - če se v času do kanonizacije zgodi vsaj en večji čudež, in sicer na priprošnjo k (bodočemu) svetniku. Opisani postopek je potekal tudi v primeru škofa Slomška. Škofijski postopek se je na pobudo skupine duhovnikov začel že daljnega leta 1926. Gradivo, ki je, kot pravi dr. Turnšek, kot po čudežu počakalo konec vojne nedotaknjeno na hodniku neke stavbe v Mariboru, so zbirali kar do leta 1962, seveda pa je vmes delo za kakšnih deset let prekinila vojna. Strokovnjaka vatikanske kongregacije za svetnike, ki sta gradivo preučevala vse do leta 1977, sta se o njem pozitivno izrekla in na podlagi tega se je bilo mogoče lotiti zgodovinske pozicije. Ta je zdaj končana; pred dnevi so jo odnesli v tiskarno. To so trije debeli zvezki, pisani v italijanščini, z nič manj kot 1500 stranmi. »Škof Slomšek je bil tako plodovit, tako vsestranski ustvarjalec, da prej pozicije preprosto ni bilo mogoče končati,« pravi dr. Turnšek, ki je za in v imenu vatikanske kongregacije opravil to delo. In v čem je svet-niškost škofa Slomška? »Bistvena je njegova globoks vera, za to, da bi pomagal ljudem do odnosa do Boga, je zastavil vse svoje življenje, zato je delal na Dunaju kot politik, kot narodni buditelj, zato se je potegoval -in to tudi dosegel - za prestavitev sedeža škofije iz ponemčenega St. Andraža v Maribor, kar je bilo, kot se je pokazalo, velikega pomena za Slovence.« Skozi teh 1500 strani pozicije se mora zdaj prebiti osem teologov in pet zgodovinarjev. Na vprašanje, kdaj je mogoče pričakovati končni da rimske kongregacije, dr. Turnšek odgovarja, da je beatifikacija »realno možna«. V primeru pozitivnega izida razprave bo z dovoljenjem papeža izdana »odločba o junaških krepostih božjega službenika«, do razglasitve za blaženega bo na vrsti še razprava o vsaj enem čudežu na priprošnjo Slomška. Kot smo že omenili - do razglasitve za svetnika se mora zgoditi še vsaj en čudež. S temi pa menda ni težav, saj so se in se po besedah dr. Turnška še dogajajo - med njimi zlasti čudežne ozdravitve - in so v zadnjem času tudi ustrezno dokumentirani. RANKA IVELJA Dnevnik, sobota, 11. marca 1995. am ŠT. 10, CLEVELAND, OH Že dolgo časa se nisem nič oglasila, zato bom pa danes napisala par vrstic. Spomladi smo imeli dolgo mrzlo, kar na enkrat je prišel topel val vročine. Še poprej smo imele pa Materinski dan, kosilo v Country Home v Euclid Mall. Mislim da že nisem pozabila, nas je bilo 28 Smo bile kar zadovoljne. Tudi nas g. župnik Kumše je bil znami da nam je pomagal moliti sv. očenaš, tako, da nebi pozabile moliti. Ženske so prinesle tudi nekaj daril and smo imele žrebanje tako, da je bilo kar fletno. Dan je bil lep, da smo bile res zadovoljne. Upam, da za vse drugo čez poletje ste se tudi lepo in dobro imele na dopustah in doma. Sedaj se je približala jesen; kakor vsako leto lansko leto smo imele Konvencijo za Ohio in Michigan pri sv. Vidu. Je bilo vse lepo in dobro napravljeno - kosilo dobro, dosti peciva, zelo lepe ročno napravljene vaze z cvetjem. Zelo smo bile zadovoljne. Članice št. 25 so to priredile, seveda z g. Cirilo Kermavner na celu, povsod se pozna dobro vodstvo. Mašo je pa opravil pater Abbot Roger W. Gries. Tam nas je bilo tudi lepo število. 15. oktobra letos smo imele pa (2 dni po 13.) mašo pri sv. Kristini. Udeležilo se je dosti članic, cerkev je bila polno skoraj do zadnjega kota. Mašo je opravil g. župnik Frances Sterk. Lep so zapele Marijino pesem "Angelsko češčenje," tako da je donela pesem po cerkvi, ko že dolgo nisem slišala tako lep ubrano petje. V začetku maše so nesle 3 članice lep šopek cvetja Materi božji v spomin na pokojne članice (g. Cirila Kermavnar, št. 25, Marge Church, št. 42, Martha Koren, št. 14). Po maši smo imele v Slov. domu na Rehar kosilo katerega je priredila za konvencijo podr. št. 14, katera je ali obhaja 70 letnico svojega obstoja. Članice so tudi darovale lepa darila za srečolov. 1 punčko dala g. Josephine Arko; 1, g. Stela Kostich; afgan, Marge Cigoj; za blazine obleke (pillow cases) g. Vera Bajec. Nevem kedo je pa daroval 2 košarice zelo lepo napravljene in še več drugih stvari, košarico z sadjem, drugo za lepotičenje kreme in take stvari. Na mizah so bili pa veliki belo spone klobuki z veliko mašno v barvah slov. zastave in balon privezen na vsakem. Vsaka sedma članica po mizi je bila deležna tega klobuka. Zmeraj sem rekla da št. sedem ni dobra, v nedeljo sem pa bila deležna klubuka vse eno! Sestanek je bil malodolg. Članice so začele že dremat, nekatere so bile že utrujene. Veliko ljudi skupalj in vsak hoče nekaj povedati in stvar se zavleče. V tem leu smo izgubili pri naši podr. št. 10 kakih 8 članic, to je dosti. Pred kratkim je umrla Angela Trobentar. G. Meri Podlogar je izgubila tudi zelo dobrega moža. G. Antonija Ališ je bila tudi v bolnišnici nekaj časa konec avgusta ali v začetku sept. Imam staro glavo pa hitro pozabim, moram na koledar hitro zapisat, da ne pozabim kedaj je bilo sonce ali dez. Tudi naše članice dvojce so bolane. G. Faye Moro ima reumo in sestra njena, g. Joyce Lenasi je dobila pa strok, tudi že 2 mesece ali več. Torej, vse bolanim članicam želim čimprejšnjega zdravja in okrevanja. Vse katere ste praznovala rojstne dneve poprej, v kratkem, naprej po dolgem želim vse najboljše in dobrega zdravja da bi bile še dolgo vrsto let med nami. Tudi vse Rozi, Rožice in Reške ko so ta mesec dvakrat obhajali godove tudi vse najlepše in najboljše pa vsem skupaj lepe pozdrave. Članarina je pa tako zmešana letos tukaj v Ohio-Michigan, kakor tisti hurikani na Floridi in Kubi! Lep pozdrav se enkrat. Tereza Ferraccioli NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN Poletje se je pri nas že umaknilo jesenski sezoni in naše družabno življenje se je spet poživilo. Sicer se je te zadnje dni oktobra že tudi sneg prikazal, vsaj toliko, da vemo kakšne barve je... V tem času se naša podružnica že pridno pripravlja na naš vsakoletni “Weinachtfest”. Na ok-toberski seji smo uredile vse potrebno, da bo spet lep uspeh, kakor navadno. To je namreč naš edini vir, da kaj v blagajno pride in da potem imamo za potrebe naše podružnice, kakor za razne projekte preko leta. Za tiste, ki Vam ta naš “Weinachtfest" ni poznan, povem, da je nekaj zelo zanimivega za zimski popoldan, ki se potem še nadaljuje v prelep in očarljiv zimski večer. Na prvo soboto v decembru je v našem mestecu jako živahno. Za vse je poskrbljeno, tako za mlade in starejše. Nihče ni lačen ne žejen... Imamo razne stojnice, kjer se prodajajo naše dobre orehove potice, razni štrudeljni, kateri so vedno zelo iskani. Naše članice se izredno izkažejo v tej pecilni stroki. Najlepši trenutki tega dne pa sovpadejo okrog 6. ure zvečer, ko se pri Paviljonu prižge božično drevo v vsem sijaju, ko je okrog tega tudi po naših domovih vse razsvetljeno, ko naš pevski zbor zapoje vedno nam drage božične pesmi in se oglasijo božični zvonovi. Tako smo strnjeni okrog te božične skrivnosti kot ena sama velika družina. Pridite in poveselite se z nami ta dan, ne bo Vam žal! Mimo tega pa se pripravljamo tudi na našo božičnico, ki pa bo kmalu po božičnih praznikih. Sredi novembra meseca se spominjamo vseh naših rajnih, posebno vseh naših članic. Zato bomo imele skupno sv. mašo zanje 17. novembra tukaj v cerkvi sv. Janeza. Upamo, da boste prišle od blizu in daleč za to priliko. Spomnile Washington, D.C. - Sv. Ana, 1996. MflŠfl SLDUEnSKfl DEDIŠČINA \IU t.ulHT Prihod papeža Janeza Pavla II Mogočno peli so zvonovi po deželi slovenski. A najlepše so peli iz bližnjih cerkva Velikih grobov - kjer počivajo slovenski mučeniki... Kristus jih je sprejel k sebi, da so vidci nad nami zemljani, ki jih prosimo pri Sv. Očetu v nebesih za resnično spravo in odpuščanje. Papež Janez Pavel II, Petrov naslednik, je hodil po isti poti - se ustavil in molil, kjer je odmevala pesem slovesa slovenskih fantov. Deželica naša, v svoji 1250 letni zgodovini krščanstva ni bila deležna takega doživetja... Ljudstvo je prihajalo iz vseh strani, v dušah jim je pelo: “Množice gredo s cvetjem in palmami...” Pozdravljali so velikega slovanskega papeža, ki ga je poslal nebeški Oče na priprošnjo Sv. Duha, da veri in upanju pristopimo k spravi. Desetletja smo pričakovali praznik; Praznik Odpuščanja. Papež Janez Pavel II je klical: "Ne bojte se Slovenci..." ...ne bojte se... V tišini in solzah sklonili so glave in se priporočili Materi Božji. Peli so zvonovi, molilo je ljudstvo... Jane Bevec MIKLAVŽEVANJE PRI SV VIDU Slovenska šola pri sv. Vidu v Clevelandu priredi Miklavževanje v nedeljo 1. decembra ob treh popoldne v farni dvorani. Starši se bodo lahko pogovorili s sv. Miklav* žem od osme ure dalje v društveni sobi. Vsi vljudno vabljeni! se bom,o posebno še mladega Alberta Ferkula, ki je nenadno odšel v Večnost. Naše iskreno sožalje staršem Stanley in Marija Ferkulj in njuni družini. Naj v miru počiva! Marija je naš zelo zvesta članica in rada vedno pomaga, kjer je potreba. Upam, da ste vse imele kar najlepše počitniške dni in si nabrale novih moči za delo, ki je pred nami v tem zimskem času. Tako bomo imele na decemberski seji volitev novega odbora, kar prosimo za cim večjo udeležvo. Zatorej, nasvidenje v nedeljo 1. decembra. Anne Tushar R A G A Začetki Katoliške Cerkve v Ameriki FRANC JAKLIČ IX. BARAGA REDNI ŠKOF SAULTSKI LETO 1859 13. oktober tistega leta je bil zanj vesel dan. Prišel je k njemu v Sault, prav na svoj 27. rojstni dan, naš rojak Janez Čebulj, ki mu je s svojo gorečnostjo, pa tudi s svojo neporušljivo vedrostjo in brezskrbno veselostjo delal samo veselje. Rodil se je leta 1832 na Virju pri Velesovem. V Ljubljani je gimnazijo in bogoslovje odlično izvršil; učenje mu je sploh bilo igrača. Rad je prebiral Baragova misijonska poročila. Ko je Baraga kot škof prišel v Ljubljano, je govoril z njim; ni pa še mogel v misijone, ker sta mu roditelja še živela in je čutil dolžnost, da ju na starost podpira. Leta 1855 je pel novo mašo. Za kaplana je bil eno leto v Poljanah nad Škofjo Loko, dve pa v Kranju. Na obeh službah je slovel kot vedno vesel, a vzoren in delaven duhovnik in kot izvrsten govornik. Ko sta mu oče in mati kmalu umrla, se je priglasil Baragi. Ni se pa najprej obrnil do svojega škofa Wolfa, kakor velevajo cerkveni predpisi in kakor je bil storil Baraga; zato mu je škof Wolf na kratko odgovoril, da ga ne pusti. Pa ga je tudi zato pridrževal, ker ga je zelo cenil in bi ga bil rad obdržal v svoji škofiji. Po Wolfovi smrti je 22. avgusta 1859 odšel proti Ameriki. Ko je na morju vihar srdito divjal in se je vse skrivalo v notranjosti parnika, je on brezskrbno sedel na krovu in z zanimanjem gledal divjanje razpenjenih valov. V New Yorku so ga vabili, da bi ostal v njihovi škofiji; pa jim je moško odgovoril, da bi to bila “malopridna nestanovitnost in preklicana nezvestoba, če bi tako naredil Baragi, ki ima samo 15 duhovnikov." Svoj prvi obisk pri Baragi je Čebulj pozneje takole opisal: “Naletel sem na globoko brozgo blata in snega in na oster mraz, da sem stiskal roke pod plašč. Povprašal sem po škofu Baragi. Prijazen Američan se mi je ponudil za vodnika in me je v večernem mraku spremil do škofijskega dvorca, - nizke lesene hišice, ki služi škofu za škofijski dvor na jezuitom, enemu patru in dvema bratoma, za samostan. O siromaštvo! Poslovim se od svojega spremljevalca in se nekaj časa pomudim pred ubožno leseno stavbico, stolno cerkvico, ki je precej oddaljena od mesteca. Vse je bilo tiho okoli Reke svete Marije, ki teče iz Gorenjega jezera v Huronsko. Prijazna lučka iz sobe škofa Barage me je zdramila iz misli in me privabila k vratom. Potrkam, vstopim. Začudenje, razveselitev, to se razume. Pol leta me že ni več pričakoval, zato ga je B A AJ SPOROČILO VEČNOSTI IN ČASA NAPOLNI TEK VSAKDANJOSTI Z MIROM, SREČO, ZDRAVJEM IN BOŽJIM BLAGOSLOVOM OB PRAZNOVANJU BOŽIČNIH SKRIVNOSTI IN SKOZI VSE LETO 1997! nepričakovani prihod trudnega krajskega romarja še toliko bolj razveselil. V prijetnem pogovoru nama je potekel večer. Razlagal mi je misijonske težave in mi naposled podelil pravice, dane od svete stčlice severnoameriškim misijonarjem, ki presegajo celo pravice nemških ali avstrijskih škofov. Drugo jutro me je škof Baraga poslal naprej, po Gorenjem jezeru, 250 angleških milj daleč, v velikanski misijon Minnesoto Mine, misijonarju Foxu v pomoč. Spremil me je do parnika in mi pomagal nesti mojo ropotijo. V velikem blatu in snegu mu je bilo to nekoliko težavno in ubogi usmiljeni gospod je padel v gosto brozgo, da sem ga komaj izvlekel iz nje.” Drugje pripominja Čebulj, kako je škofu Baragi pulil svoji dve culi iz rok: “Prevzvišeni, to vendar ne gre, da bi Vi, ki ste škof, nesli moje stvari.” Baraga pa: “Nikakor ne! Vi se morate varovati, jaz sem pa že star in navajen takih reči. Škof sem in Vi me morate ubogati!" V Minnesoti Mine je Čebulj našel Foxa "vsega v capah", kakor je pisal domov. Živel je v velikem siromaštvu, tudi zato, ker je moral plačevati dolg, ki si ga je nakopal za novo cerkev. Dne 20. novembra 1859 je Baraga imenoval Mraka za generalnega vikarja otavskih misijonov na Dolenjem Michiganu. V imenovalni listini ga pohvali, da si je pridobil velike zasluge za misijone, v katerih že 15 let deluje “z odlično vnemo in modrostjo". Leta 1859 je izšla v jeziku Indijancev Kree, ki so pripadali algonkinski skupini in ki so živeli ob zalivu Hudson Bay v Kanadi, knjiga z angleškim naslovom “Pridige škofa Barage”. Namenjena je bila zlasti misijonarjem. Sestavljena je iz raznih Baragovih spisov. Ima črke, ki jih je bil izumil neki protestantovski misijonar. Izšla je v Montrealu. Leta 1887 je izšla tam v 2. izdaji. LETO 1860 Misijonarja Piret v Mackinacu in Murray pri Sv. Ignaciju sta bila prosila prejšnje leto Barago, naj pride birmat pozimi, ko bodo verniki, po večini ribiči, doma. Dne 6. februarja se je Baraga napotil k njim. Cerkvene potrebščine, živila in odeje za prenočevanje v gozdu sta mu nesla dva pol Indijanca, ki mu jih je poslal Piret. Prvih pet kilometrov so se peljali na saneh. Ko so prišli do gozda, pa sani niso več šle in so si morali navezati krplje. Drug za drugim so stopali; Baraga je šel zadnji. Zaradi starosti je bil zelo opešan; s težavo je vzdigoval in zanašal težke krplje. Čeravno je bil hud mraz, je bil kmalu ves potan. Opoldne so se ustavili, zakurili ogenj in si skuhali čaja. Kakor navadno, je Baraga prigriznil le malo prepečenca. Popoldne so mu krplje postale pretežke in si jih je moral odvezati; v samih čevljih je pa tudi težko gazil, ker se mu je globoko udiralo. Tako se je mučil do večera. Prenočili so v vigvamu, ki je bil zgoraj odprt in tudi vrat ni imel. Baraga je noč nekam dobro prespal. Ob štirih je vstal, da je ob svitu ognja že do zore odmolil del brevirja. Po zajtrku si je spet navezal krplje. Vsa muka prejšnjega dne se je ponovila. Vodnika sta se s strahom ozirala nazaj, če ni opešal. Zvečer je že komaj stal na nogah. Pripravili so mu posteljo: s krpljami so odkopali sneg, nanesli dračja in ga pregrnili z odejo, zraven pa zakurili ogenj, da bi prepotena obleka ne zmrzovala na njem, ko bo molil brevir. Za večerjo je imel spet samo čaj s kruhom. Tisto noč je samo malo podremaval; oči je imel uprte v zvezdnati svod, ki se je bočil nad tihim gozdom. Drugo jutro je spet na vse zgodaj ob ognju opravljal brevir. Po čaju si je navezal krplje. "Kako sem se postaral!” je zapisal v dnevnik. Ob pol desetih so zapustili pragozd in prišli k zamrzlemu Huronskemu jezeru. Čakalo jih je še 24 km hoje po gladkem ledu. Komaj so pa stopili na led, so v daljavi zagledali dolg sprevod: Indijanci od Sv. Ignacija so se na več ko dvajsetih lepo okrašenih saneh peljali svojemu škofu naproti. Baragi so se od ganjenosti orosile oči. Tiho so pokleknili. Blagoslovil jih je. Potem so ga posadili na sani, zadelali z odejami in mu nudili okrepčil. Hitro so zdrčali čez gladki led. Pri Sv. Ignaciju ga je pozdravil misijonar Piret. Birmal je 90 oseb, med njimi tudi več starih mož in žena. Ostal je pri njih osem dni in jih obiskoval tudi po kočah. NADALJEVANJE NAŠE JASLICE Old Slovenian Christmas Customs In the olden days, the Christmas creche was the focal point in the Slovenian family’s home at Christmas-time. A Christmas tree might be there, too, but the Nativity Scene was the most prominently displayed - and it was lovingly set-up by all the family. This is usually how it went: While mother and grandmother in the Slovenian household were busy getting ready in the kitchen for the Christmas Eve meal, father and the children went out to the woods to gather moss. The nicest and most verdant plush of mountain moss was found deep in the woods. They would bring it home and place it all around the platform on which the Christmas scene would be arranged. It was usually in “God’s Comer,” that part of the room, high above eye-level, where the family established a little comer altar with their patron saint statues and pictures of the Blessed Mother and Sacred Heart of Jesus. The comer became the most important place in the home for the happy season and everyone wanted it to be beautiful. Transforming God’s comer into a replica of Bethlehem was a tradition. First, the handworked linen cloth embroidered with sacred symbols, then the moss, then the figures of the Baby Jesus and all the other Christmas subjects. In many families, the father was the main architect of the little scene - he probably made the stable from wood and arranged the surrounding area to conform to the traditional, old-fashioned setting. The youngsters helped by putting the figures into place. MARKING THE ENTRANCE DOOR Another purely Slovenian tradition is the marking of the entrance doorway with the names of the Three Kings -Gaspar, Miha, Boltezar, or their three initials. It looked something like this: “G - M - B” and the date. This would stay there all year. Father used a crayon or chalk, and mother dared not ever erase it with her dusting cloth! This was thought to protect the family from any misfortune entering their home all year. BLESSING THE HOUSE When evening came and the Angelus sounded, each family formed its own little procession to bless their house. With father leading the way, carrying the Rosary and bowl of incense, mother followed with blessed water and each child with a lighted candle. They prayed while walking around the whole property. In some palces, the children also carried little crosses they had made and placed them in the fields and garden. When they returned home the whole family gathered at the “God’s Comer - Bogkov kot” and listened as father told the story of the First Nativity. CHRISTMAS EVE -A WONDERFUL FAMILY TIME! After capturing the spirit of Christmas in their home, the family enjoyed a meat-less dish, perhaps “mlinci” or porridge, dried fruit that had been cooked and sweetened and apple strudel. To drink, a delicious sweet wine, plum brandy and then, herbal tea whose aroma filled the home with its delicate fragrance. The little ones were put to bed with grandmother ever-watchful, and the older children joined mother and father on their trek over the snow-laden paths to church for midnight mass. It was magic! Celebrate in the old traditions or in your own family customs! Merry Christmas to all! Editor 2ND CLASS POSTAGE PAID CHICAGO ILLINOIS HABERMANN Funeral Home 805 N. 6th Street Sheboygan, WI 53081 TEZAK FUNERAL HOME “First in Service Since 1908” [ Licensed Producer's; Richard K. Tezak Lydia Marquardt LUTCF (741-0427) (Forethought Trust) American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) Call for information and a free booklet “For Future Reference" (815) 722-0524 Fred C. Dames Funeral Homes Phone 741-5500 Mark L. Dames Jeffrey M. Dames Brian L. Dames Fred J. Dames 251 North Center St. Joliet. II 60435 3200 Black Rd . Joliet IL 60435 ZEFRAN FUNERAL HOME Louis Ron Zefran Frank J. 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