4
S 3.99 U.S./S 8.99 International
Volume 82 Issue I January/February, 2010
The Dawn
Official Publication Slovenian Women’s Union of America Uradno Glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze v Ameriki
Zarj 3 - The Dawn
EDITOR: Debbie Pohar DIRECTOR OK DESIGN: Bonnie Pohar Prokup
EDITORIAL OFFICE: 16% Illinois St., LaSalle, IL 61301 TELEPHONE: 815.223.95%
FAX: 815.224.1074
WEB SITE: www.swua.org
PUBLISFIER: Slovenian Women's Union of America TELEPHONE: 815.727.1926
Vol. 82. No I, January/February 2010 Published bimonthly Periodicals Postage paid ;ii Joliet. IL and additional mailing offices.
(ISSN 0044-1848)
Postmaster: Send all changes of address to:
SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet. IL 60432
Communications for the next issue of publication:
Do you have something SWUA-related you would like to share with readers, like an event you want to let people know about or an idea for an article? We would love to hear from you! Please e-mail the editor at pohar4(a aol.com. We reserve the right to edit any article submitted. It is preferable that you submit your idea for discussion prior to writing an article. Articles must be related to SWUA events or members. The deadline for articles is the 15'h day of the month. 2 months preceding the issue. For example, articles for the March April issue must be received bv January 15"'. Thank you.
IT5	S IN EVERY SLOVENIAN
l	National President’s Message
2	Nationwide Membership Campaign In Progress
3	Membership Application
5	SWUA Scholarship Program
HERITAGE NEWS	
6	Men in a SWUA World
7	The Feast of the Three Kings
	by Father Ronald Margherio, O.S.B.
8	The Magi by Mary Lou Deyak Voelk
10	Books for Children of All Ages
12	Memories of Visiting Šmarješke Toplic
	by Bernadette Kovačič Fitzsimmons
16	Baraga Days 2009
17	SWUA Win Calendar February 2010 Fund-Raiser
22	Branch Reports
32	Calendar of Events
33	Illinois/Indiana and Ohio Regional Conventions
34	Slovenian Heritage Weekend in Blairstown, NJ
CULINARY
36	Jenka’s Taste of Slovenia
Letter to the Editor
My name is Cookie Maxin. I am the Ohio Regional President and my home is Branch 50 of Euclid. For me and my family, SWUA is part of our heritage. My Mother, May Maxin, was an active member of Branch 50. For her, participation in the organization meant meeting with familiar faces, sharing stories, continuing Slovenian traditions and making new friends. It meant traditional recipes and often times fattening desserts. Il meant being a part of something that connected her to generations of Slovenian women and that came before her. For me, it is much the same. 1 can honestly say 1 never imagined myself holding a position such as this but for me it is a chance to carry on the importance of SWUA that my mom raised me with. It's a way for me to feel closer to her, even though she is gone, and to feel connected to all the women in my family who have gone before me.
In this new era of text messaging and e-mail, face to face communication is getting lost. While the founders of this club formed it so they would have a place to meet other women like them-brave Slovenian women coming to a new country-and to share memories and traditions from their home land so they
wouldn’t get lost, now people need only to log onto their computer to meet someone like them.
Times are changing and my hope is that the traditions, values and importance of SWUA won’t get lost in the shuffle. My challenge to all of us is to fill our meetings with new members; to reach out to the next generation of Slovenian women who, although are very different from our generations still have the desire to be connected to others and to know who they are and where they come from.
I had the opportunity to travel to Slovenia with my niece. Being my first time abroad, it was an adventure. For a moment I felt like I could imagine the emotions that Slovenian women must have felt when coming to America. Everything in Slovenia was foreign to me-I felt scared, intimidated, unsure and homesick. I could see why an organization like SWUA had so much importance to the women new to this country. Once I settled in, I was able to explore the beauty and warmth of Slovenia. I felt so very proud to come from that incredible land and more interested than ever in learning about my Slovenian heritage.
Hvala Lepa and Nosdravje!
National President’s Message
Younger Members Becoming Active Within Their Branches and Giving Dedicated Members Who Served for Decades a Break
Is it possible that I have just completed one decade of serving SWUA as a National Officer? To think back to 1999 when I attended a convention in Florida as the Illinois/Indiana Regional President and came home as the National Secretary. And now ten years later the National President of an organization that many thought was not going to see the year 2000.
It is now 2010 and our organization is still alive and thriving! Yes, we may be losing members as the majority of our membership is aging but just think of what we are gaining. Younger members that are becoming active within their branches and in most cases they have become the officers that are giving that dedicated member who served for decades a break. We now have male officers and members who are bringing a whole new look to the scene. Our Zarja continues to get raving reviews; we have full trips to Slovenia with another one set for October 2010 and so much more. We should be proud to call ourselves a member of SWUA.
Yes, it is true we have financial problems that we need to sort out. A must at the next convention will be an increase in dues or a cut in Zarja. Either way something will have to change, we can’t operate on the budget we have. You will be happy to know that the salaries the present employees have were set back in the year 1995 or before. Only one person received a raise in the past decade and that was so she could make minimum wage.
Sometimes it is hard to measure success. If you look at how many members we lost on paper it can be depressing, but then when I have the privilege of doing the Branch Reports you notice... things are not bad! If you are not reading the branch reports from all over the country I encourage you to start doing so, you would be amazed at the fun events branches are having and how rewarding it can be. Below is a piece from Branch 13 of San Francisco that I feel needs to be shared for everyone to see. I remember for years this branch was decreasing at an alarming rate and now look at it! This is awesome energy!
We had a very successful year in 2009. Under the great leadership of President Doreen Sustarich our membership is up and we have money in the bank and our active members don’t miss a meeting. What more can you ask for? We may not be a large group. but we are a happy group! Our meetings are filled with
friendship, good food, good times and a lot of fun and laughs. And I must say the National Board of Directors have led us into the 21st century in great style. Aren’t computers wonderful!!! Just look at the Zarja magazine. We can’t wait to get them.
We in Branch 13 enjoy celebrating, you name it -Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving, Halloween, the start of summer. Just give us a reason and we ’II celebrate with decorations and great food. And we did celebrate every holiday in 2009. Our Pot Luck Luncheons get better every year! SWUA is the Greatest Women ’s Organization there is. Our members are always trying the recipes in Zarja. I made my first successful potica last year. What a happy day that was. I know my Mom was looking down smiling at me and saying “Way to go!”
If your branch is feeling a little down, I encourage you to talk to other branches and look for ideas to try something new. Find out why people are not attending and find out what interests them; I guarantee it will work!
Best wishes for another successful year in the land of Slovenian Women’s Union of America!
Bonnie Pohar Prokup National President
Welcome to Our	
New Members!	
001 John Zore	093 Mia Branc
003 Tamara Gorenc	093 Pavla Marija Percic
003 Cheryl Holland	099 Sharon Birk
005 Patricia Levsay	099 Diane Fanning
013 Dustin Brace	099 Judith Harazin
014 Kim Densa	099 Julie Kacin Lavoie
020 Maryann Albert	100 Loraine Starc-Homer
020 John Čretnik	108Virgina Durbin
020 Marilyn Hogan	108 Colleen Jurcic
020 Christopher Kehoe	108 Ashley Smith
020 Ann Pedersen	109 Nadia Giordan
020 Susan Stockwell	109 Rick Pisa
042 Edward Zalar	109 MikeSchiltz
089 Trudy Argubright 093 Elizabeth Albrecht	109 Kathryn Marie Stately
noioom
Nationwide Membership Campaign In Progress
Nationwide Membership Campaign
Top THREE Recruiting Branches To WIN POTICA
There’s only a few more weeks left to catch up with the SWUA Nationwide Membership Campaign! Keep passing out the new membership brochures sent to all branch presidents; distribute them personally to branch members, friends, families and members of your community along with your smile and invitation to join SWUA. The top three branches recruiting the most new members from September 1, 2009 - March 1, 2010 will win a gift from Rocky Mountain Potica delivered to the Branch Presidents’ of the winning branches in April, 2010 to share with branch members. Is1 place branch winners will receive three poticas; 2nd place branch winners will receive two poticas, and the 3rd place winners will receive one potica. In the event of a tie among the top recruiting branches, six potica’s will be distributed among the winners, along with a bag of gifts from the Slovenian Heritage Museum Gift Shop. To learn more about potica, or to order for Easter, or other special occasion, go to www.RockyMountainPotica.com.
It is very important to warmly welcome new members so that they retain their membership with SWUA. Think of the first year or two as a trial period and do your best to get new members uniquely involved to match their talents and interests, and make commitments to help individuals meet their expectations of membership, and your branch reach its goals. Keep in mind if new member expectations are not met during the first year or two, it is likely you will lose them. Some ideas for getting new people involved; larger branches can form a welcoming committee; smaller branches, a telephone call, or e-mail inviting the new member to a meeting can be helpful. Ask questions and find out about their interests in Slovenian heritage, cooking, geneology, and crafts and ask them to share their expertise with your branch. Invite them to be a guest speaker, or host a cooking or craft deomonstration. A warm welcome to newcomers will enrich your entire branch this new year and beyond.
As of November 15, less than half of our nationwide branches are actively recruiting. Dig out those new membership brochures and use them to introduce prospective members to our organization. There are dozens and dozens of people in the midwest and west coast regions that just need to be invited to join, and we need all the branches to help. Send or drop off an application to post at your nearby library and college/university department for international students on the east coast and other locations. Lynn Zalokar, Branch 93 forwarded the scanned copy of the application I sent to her to everyone on her mailing list, and included a cover letter to help personalize it. Use your creativity with the tools you’ve been given and I promise you will see results. As of November 15, there are seven top recruiters, but records can change very quickly in the membership business, so don’t give up hope if your branch isn’t listed. Congratulations to the following branches at the halfway point of this campaign. 1 wish I could send each of you half a potica to anticipate your possible winning, but I need to keep my word, and give everyone a chance to compete to the deadline of March 1, 2010.
Branch 20, Joliet, 1L	6 new members
Branch 99, Lemont, IL	5 new members
Branch 109, Twin Cities, MN	4 new members
Branch 3, Pueblo, CO	3 new members
Branch 89, Oglesby, IL	3 new members
Branch 93, New York, NY	3 new members
Branch 108, Olney, MD	3 new members
If you need more SWUA Membership Brochures, please request them from the home office by calling 815.727.1926.
Any suggestions or questions about the brochure and membership application - please call me at 301.391.6873 or e-mail Bettekfitz@verizon.net.
Good Luck and and all the best in recruiting and retaining members this new year 2010!
Bernadette Kovacic Fitzsimmons Vice President of Marketing <£ Fundraising
Consider giving a gift membership for birthdays and special occasions.
Tezak’s
1908-2008
Home to Celebrate Life ®
1211 PLAINFIELD RD., JOLIET, IL 60435
www.tczakfuneralhome.com
815.741.2563 Fax 877.587.8460 815.722.0524
Celebrating our 100"' Year!
Membership Application
Slovenian Women’s Union of America Slovenska Ženska Zveza v Ameriki
www.swua.orgswuhome@sbcglobal.net	(815)	727-1926
Yes! I want to join the S.W.U.A. I want to preserve and promote the legacy of our Slovenian-American heritage. As a member I will receive the publication, ZARJA - The Dawn; I can affiliate with branches and events across the country and best of all, I will come in contact with fellow Slovenians.
Choose type of membership:
Junior (Birth to 18), Annual Dues $5.00
(No prorated dues offered for junior memberships)
Adult, Prorated Dues $10.00 (offered only to first time members joining June 30 - December 31)
Adult, Annual Dues $20.00
(includes returning members)
Adult, International Address Annual Dues $30.00
Invoices are sent annually in January; dues notices in the amount of $20.00/adult or $5.00/junior will be mailed to the address of the member listed below in January of the next calendar year after joining.
Please print the requested information below and send this application fonn with a check payable to:
Slovenian Women’s Union of America	431 North Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432
Maiden Name
Name___________
Street Address Phone
City/State/Zip_
E-Mail
Date of Birth
Branch Affiliation Number (if known)_____________________Location:
Please describe your Slovenian ancestry and provide SLOVENIAN SURNAMES.
Do you speak Slovenian?
How did you hear about us? S.W.U.A. member newspaper website other
I would like to volunteer for the S.W.U.A. My area of interest or expertise is:________
Applicant’s signature:______________________________________________________Date:______
Tell a Friend! If you wish us to send information to a friend or relative just fill in name and address here: My friend’s name_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address
City
State
Zip
Zarja The Dawn Donations
Zarja The Dawn would like to thank the following branches and individuals for the extremely generous donations and comments:
$500 Donation
Dear Bonnie:
On behalf of Branch 12 of the SWUA of Milwaukee, I am enclosing a check in the amount of $500.00 as a contribution, in memory of the living and deceased members of Branch 12, to be used for printing and postage expenses in connection with the Zarja magazine. We are keenly aware of the rocketing costs of printing and postage and hope that the enclosed contribution will defray, in a small way some of the costs, so that we can continue to enjoy the magazine.
Sincerely,
Branch 12 Treasurer, Fran Remshak
$100 Donation
Dear Debbie:
On behalf of Slovenian Women’s Union of America Branch 1 please accept this check of $100.00 for the Zarja magazine. We truly enjoy your new magazine and all the hard work and great photos in it.
Thanks again! Branch 1 President, Aggie Gruenke
$25 Donation
Edward Zalar, 42 +Anna Zalar
$20 Donation
Dear Bonnie and Debbie
Here is my $20.00 donation to Zarja as promised as my sincere thanks for all you do. The two of you are such a great team, you have earned our accolades and thanks!
Sincerely, Stephanie
Evelyn Driscoll, +Andrea Krai Gladys Buck, + my mother, Anna Buck
$10 Donation
Kathy Gunier, 20 +W. Govednik and B. Gunier Mary Rose Scott, 2 +Mary Marinčič Mary Rose, 100 +Val Grantham
Thank you for your generous support of SWUA. During this tough economic time worldwide, it shows how important our
heritage is to all of us. Your donations are truly appreciated.
Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations.
Update - 2011 SWUA National Convention
The location has been chosen for the SWUA 2011 National Convention in Milwaukee, WI. The recently renovated DoubleTree Hotel-Milwaukee City Center located in downtown Milwaukee at 611 West Wisconsin Avenue is the site from June 16th thru June 19th, 2011.
Please mark your calendars. Room reservations may be made beginning in August 2010.
The staff at the DoubleTree Milwaukee City Center has contracted with SWUA to keep prices well below the usual downtown prices. The National Convention Committee will be striving to work towards an affordable convention package to encourage a large participation from all SWUA Branches.
To offer help, ideas, suggestions or to ask questions please contact Denise P. Bartlett in Milwaukee at 414.327.4990 or at denisepbartlett@wi.rr.com
V___________________________________________________________________________________/
SWUA Scholarship Foundation
Entering Its 61st Year of Financially Assisting Students
MISSION To generate funding to Financially assist young students,
With hope that they will promote And preserve Slovenian culture.
The Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Foundation is accepting scholarship applications for the 2010-2011 academic years. Applicants must hold three year paid SWUA memberships beginning March 1, 2006.
ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS MUST be post marked before March 1, 2010.
Emailed application documents will not be accepted, nor will material be accepted that is mailed after March 1,2010. Application forms can be downloaded at http://www.swua.org “scholarship”. Note changes in required essay questions.
In the October 8, 2009 edition of Northern Michigan University’s newspaper, The North Wind, Professor Nell Kupper wrote of an article written in 1942, authored by Abraham Maslow, entitled “A Theory of Human Motivation”. In the article Maslow states that humans are motivated by simple needs, culminating in the need to learn. After the basic needs for food, safety, shelter, belongingness and esteem are met, there is another urge that becomes activated. This last urge exists uniquely in human kind, and Maslow defines it as the need for self-actualization: to become what one can be. A new desire grips humans, the desire to become more and more what one is capable of doing. So the difficult financial and emotionally stressful lives that students engage in, as they seek their educational pursuits, satisfy a natural human drive. Each is striving to become his or her authentic self.
Sara Goldrick-Rab, a professor at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, an expert on financial aid, says: “The safety net is falling away”. There is no question that students coming in to school are going to have much more difficulty getting by year to year in college and staying enrolled as a result of state and federal cuts aiding college students. Many financial programs are need-based grants that provide money that complement financial aid, offered by the school and federal government. Without that cash, some students may be forced to drop out or transfer to cheaper schools.
A conclusion to these two news articles indicates how extremely important higher education in some form, is to the well being of young adults and society, and how difficult government and school funding has become. The effects of our economy are having a devastating impact on many
and in particular our young people. Parents in the past were main sources of financial aid, but now are in a crisis of their own.
Contributions, questions, comments can all be sent to:
Mary Turvey, Director Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Foundation 4 Lawrence Drive Marquette, Michigan 49855 m turvey @aol. com
DONATIONS
The following contributions were most gratefully received and acknowledged:
“All contributions are tax exempt” $580 Donation
Branch 47, Garfield Hts, OH Proceeds from the Ohio Regional Meeting
$100 Donation
Professor Carol Rogel Poirer Branch 1, Sheboygan, WI
$10 Donation
Branch 43, Milwaukee, WI +Victoria Celia Sporis died 9/21/09 at 107 years +John Skusekdied 10/5/09
For more information on the SWUA Scholarship Foundation Program
please visit http://www.swua.org “scholarship”
Men in a SWUA World
The Talented Swinging Slovenes
Led by High School Senior Bekki Prokup
Don’t look now but there seems to be another group of talented Swinging Slovenes! The Lady Bruins Golf Team of St. Bede Academy in Peru, Illinois had a great season this year and garnished more than a couple of awards. The team also has a large Slovenian influence with four of the six varsity players having Slovenian blood running through their veins. While a fifth member though not technically Slovenian has donated a lot of time in helping out the Slovenian Women Union of America in many ways. The four Slovenian-Americans are Bekki and Barbi Prokup, Katie Gregorich and Rachel Struna, while Olivia Dean most recently donated her time to SWUA at the National Convention.
Lead by four-time Sectional qualifier, Bekki Prokup (Branch 24) the Lady Bruins were able to finish third in their Regional and earn a birth in the Sectional Tournament at Byron, Illinois. This is only the second time that the Bruins have advanced this far as a team, the first time being when the two seniors Bekki Prokup and Rachel Struna were freshman.
Bekki Prokup earned the two most impressive awards for High School golfers in the Illinois Valley area. Bekki won the NewsTribune Girl’s Golfer of the year and also the same award in the Bureau County Republican which are the two major newspapers in the area. Prokup became the first St. Bede golfer, male or female, to win the prestigious NewsTribune award.
Bekki had a stellar season with an area best average.
In addition to her scores Bekki also developed into a team leader and in many ways had a large hand in the creation of the team itself. She was responsible for recruiting many of her teammates and worked hard to teach them what she could about golf. “With out Bekki there would not he St. Bede golf, she has grown as a golfer and even more importantly as a leader and a person. ” Bruin golf coach Rich Cummings said of his talented senior. With her high school career now behind, Bekki is looking to continue her golf career at the collegiate level.
Bekki Prokup, Branch 24
Filling the role of the number two golfer was Dean, who earned a spot in both papers as an all-area first team member. Gregorich (granddaughter of member Catherine Gregorich, Branch 24), had a very consistent junior year as she could be counted on to shoot a good score. Struna finished her career strong and was actually the deciding score to advance St. Bede to Sectionals as her score was used as the tie breaker. Freshman Barbi Prokup (Branch 24) has shown steady improvement and worked hard to earn the sixth and final spot on the team, she appears to have a bright future. So it is clear where old Don is going to be looking for his team when the next SWUA National Convention and golf tournament comes around, I’ll definitely take my chances with these “Swinging Slovenes”.
This group of young Slovenian women displayed the hard work that Slovenian people have been known for and we should all be proud of what they have accomplished. These are the kind of things we should focus on in our younger members and should be brought to light. So, if you have any other younger members that have excelled like these girls please let me know at Doomsports@aol.com and I will try to give them the recognition they deserve. As always may good luck be yours. - Don Baldin
The Feast of the Three Kings
by Father Ronald Margherio, O.S.B.
It is impossible to get through the Christmas season without hearing the hymn “Twelve Days of Christmas” numerous times. We are all familiar with golden rings, calling birds and lords a leaping. December 25 is Christmas. So on the 13 of December the countdown begins. The problem is that we are always rushing things. For centuries church calendars noted that there are twelve days of Christmas and they begin on Christmas Day, not on December 13 and end on January 6.
So, the twelve days of Christmas end on January 6 with the Feast of Epiphany also called “The Feast of the Three Kings”. Even though no number is given in the Gospel of Matthew and they are called magi, over the centuries the number became fixed at 3, because of the 3 gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and they became kings and were given the names of Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar.
The birth of Jesus Christ is closely joined with that of the Feast of the Epiphany. And both of these feasts are also seen as joined to Baptism of Jesus. Christmas, Epiphany and the Baptism were seen as the first, second and third nativities: Christ’s birth as son of Mary, his manifestation to the world and his rebirth in baptism.
In the fourth century, December 25 was finally adopted by the Western Church as the date of Christ’s birth. It is believed that this change in date gave rise to the tradition of the 12 Days of Christmas. The Eastern Church still recognizes January 6 as the celebration of Jesus’ birth.
On the evening before the Feast of the Three Kings, there were prayers and the doorways were blessed with holy water and the father of the house would write with chalk C + M + B and the year above the house and bam door and say: Caspar, Melchior, Balthasar protect us again this year from the dangers of fire and water.
The festival of the Three Kings marks the end of the Christmas season. In Slovenia special bread called župnek (or poprtnik) was placed under a special cloth. In some places three loaves of bread, representing the 3 kings, were
baked. Two were decorated with the date of the present year and one with the date of the coming year.
The loaf with the coming year was used as župnek and placed under the special cloth. On this special bread, along with other customary decorations, were also birds. There had to be at least as many birds as there were children in the house. Each child had to be given a piece of bread that had a whole bird on it. The children ate the bread, but for several days they kept the birds to play with. A piece of the special bread was also given to all visitors as well as to all pets.
Father Ronald Margherio, O.S.B.
Saint Bede Abbey and Academy 24 W US HIGHWAY 6 Peru, IL 61354-2903 815.223.3140 Ext. 238 ronaldmargherio@hotmail.com
Maxsim Gaspari
Slovenian Traditions: The Magi
e have all heard the story of the birth of Jesus, and the wise men that came bearing gifts. As a child I had a mental image of three men all decked in flowing purple and red robes, and wearing gold crowns on their heads, trudging through the hot desert riding on their camels. Living in Ely, Minnesota, and at that young age, a desert was a hot, mystifying place. The Magi were present on our cardboard manger scene, and so they were present on Christmas Eve. Confused, I would pour over the newly distributed catholic calendar from St. Anthony Church and find the Three Kings Day in January. I had visions of baby Jesus laying in the manger for 12 days until the Magi found him. Looking back in time, the Deyak family cardboard manger was already packed away for the next Christmas, all before the Magi had arrived!
These same memories and sense of wonderment reoccurred in January 2006. On this Sunday morning Jana Bauer (author of In the Land of Gingerbread) and I attended Mass at Sv Simon and Juda Tadej Church in Ljubljana. The mass ended, the priest and servers left the altar, but no one left. Suddenly, three tall male servers reappeared from the sacristy dressed in white gowns, and with crowns on their heads, the Three Kings had arrived!
A flood of children headed to the front of the church. They seemed to know the protocol. They slipped into lines awaiting their turn to be blessed by a “king” Then each dipped their hand into a basket for a piece of candy and
by Mary Lou Deyak Voelk ©
were given a wooly miniature sheep to add to their home creche. Such wonderful memories for those children to hold in their hearts!
That sense of wonderment! Slovenian tradition speaks of 3 Christmas’, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and the eve of the Three Kings. What about those 12 days? Who were the Magi? What do the gifts represent? What is the meaning of the creche?
Slovenian Tradition
Poprtnik is the symbolic bread for the 12 days of Christmas. Poprtnik (prt/tablecloth) indicates that the bread is covered with a tablecloth and left to rest until eaten on the festive days. Traditionally three breads were baked, using buckwheat, wheat and rye flours. The breads were richly decorated with religious symbols, the date of the New Year, and various decorations. The bread was offered on all three eves.
On the eve of the Three Kings, each room in the house was blessed with burning incense, a symbol of the gift of Balthasar. As the family walked through with the burning incense, each room was blessed with holy water.
The entry to the home and bam were also blessed with the holy water, then the father of the house would write with chalk the year and the initials of the Three Kings. (ex:20+C+M+B+10)
Jana Bauer: “my mum still usually smokes the house with incense”. Sadly many of these traditions are passing away. A group of women from Velike Lašče have realized the richness of tradition. Each year, 40 varieties of poprtnik are baked for their annual celebration.
The Magi
The Magi have played an important role in Slovenian tradition. Just who were the Magi? The Magi were an actual priestly caste in ancient Persia, or Iran of today. They were not magicians per se, but were of noble birth, educated and wealthy. They were
Maxsim Gaspari, the famed folk artist of Slovenia has captured this beautiful tradition in his artwork of showing the blessing in of the home with incense and holy water
held in awe as scholars and were extremely knowledgeable about astrology. They studied Hebrew Scriptures and the Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament so they probably knew of the prophecy of Daniel, 9:25,26 and believed in the prophecy of the Messiah.
The only mention of Magi in the New Testament is in Matthew (2) “wise men from the East came to Jerusalem” “following his star”. The number of Magi is not specified. Historically, it is known the Magi usually traveled in groups of 30-50 for safety reasons. In the western world it is believed their number was set at three to correspond with the three gifts.
The Gospel only says “wise men from the east” but Western tradition names three. The eldest was Caspar, a Semitic. Melchior was middle aged and European. The youngest was Balthasar, an African. It is believed they arrived about the time the Child was a toddler. Their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh are considered prophetic.
Tradition states that Balthasar brought the gift of frankincense. Incense was used in perfumes and in temple worship. The white smoke represented the prayers of the faithful rising towards heaven. It symbolized the sacrifice and divine nature of Christ.
Caspar brought the gift of myrrh. Myrrh had medicinal qualities. It was mixed with wine and given to Jesus when he was about to be crucified, it is considered a prophecy of the death and burial of the earthly body of Jesus.
Melchoir presented the gift of gold. Gold represented the kingship of Jesus.
The creche may appear as being one scene but in reality it tells the earthly story of the Messiah. No matter if it is a cardboard replica or a beautiful painting in a museum. The support cast is Mary, “blessed art though amongst women”; the obedient Joseph; the shepherds who were considered to be at the bottom of the social and economic scale; the Magi, who represent the races of the world. The Three Kings arrive, they bow before Him and present their (prophetic) gifts; they recognize who He is. ******************************** Memories
Pauline Buzan of Branch 100 tells of her childhood memories in New York. A tree was put up a week prior to Christmas. The creche was set up with a landscaped hill along side or behind the nativity setting. The Three Kings would be placed in a distance away. On Christmas, Baby Jesus was placed in the crib. With incense and
holy water in hand, the family would move from room to room, praying the rosary. Each day following, the children would move the Kings closer until on January 6th, they reached the newborn baby. That morning the family would attend the Mass of the Epiphany. The following day it would all be packed away until the next year.
In Slovenian churches it is traditional to bless the creche as part of the Sprinkling Rite at the beginning of Midnight Mass. It is a ritual followed by the parish in Lemont. In Lemont, the creche is set up on the left side of the church between the first pew and the sacristy wall. Each year, parishioner Peter Jakopec adds a new mechanized feature to the creche. There are water mills that spin, a woodsman cutting a log, fires that flicker, women washing clothes in a stream. Each year is wonderment. What will be added to the creche? The children fight to get into this pew so they can watch this during Mass. The creche in Lemont is set up until the Feast of Lights in early February, which is the traditional end of the Christmas season.
Rosemary Mlakar, Branch 100 telephoned Louise Puhek, a relative from Hibbing, Minnesota. Louise was bom in Slovenia. She told this story to Rosemary. On the day of the Epiphany, young men of the village would dress up like travelers and would carry the left over bread to feed to the animals. They were called “koledneke” They would go about singing and knocking on doors in the village. The words of the song said “they were not begging, but only bringing good luck and happiness to all for the New Year”. This was a traditional ritual until after WWII, when the Western influence of such things as Santa came into vogue. And yes, Louise sang the folksong for Rosemary.
Credits: Google Searches; Taste Slovenia, Janez Bokataj; Jean Koci, one call, and she was on the phone with members Rosemary Mlakar and Pauline Buzan, thank you!; John Vidmar on Lemont; and Louise Puhek who graciously sang for me.
Books for Children of All Ages
The Flip Books: Stories in English and Slovenian
September 14-19, 2009 was an extraordinary week for Peter Svetina and Damijan Stepančič.
From New York City they set out in a rental car with a GPS, a few suitcases of personal belongings and their collaborative creation, Anton’s Circus. Their destinations: Cleveland,
Joliet and Waukegan.
The 1st stop was in Cleveland and the Slovenian National Library, Inc, Children’s Library. Here they met with President Nena Cerer who introduced Peter and Damijan. But prior to that time, Jennie Svetina Tuma had recognized the Svetina name in the St. Mary Church bulletin,
Notice of Upcoming Events. Her curiosity was peaked! Jennie came to the book signing and introduced	Donna is finding it exciting to begin the project using her
herself to Peter. Such a wondrous surprise when they	Slovenian culture with her 2nd grade class. The integrated
determined that Jennie’s father and Peter’s grandfather	lesson will feature Anton’s Circus and a PowerPoint
were brothers. Quote from Peter: “Imagine, I found out	presentation created specifically to go along with the book.
At the Heritage Museum in Joliet, Peter and Damijan entertained thirty-two 3rd and 4th graders and twelve 7th graders from the St. Joseph School. Teachers Ms. Sandra Almazan, Ms. Debbie Orive, Fr. Timothy Andres, O. Carm and Principal David Sepia accompanied them.
Speaking directly to the students, Jana Hlade centered her introductory statements on the purposes of museums; places for collections, but also places that offer life-long learning. It is at this museum, Peter and Damijan created an integrated lesson, an opportunity for students to meet a real live author and illustrator and to hear about a tiny country far across the sea and to hear a language unfamiliar to their ears. Their smiling faces attested to their enjoyment!
Photo of Jennie and Peter
Jennie Tuma is a little sister of my grandfather!
Jennie, the evening has become a joyous and recurring flashback! A chance meeting of relatives halfway across the world, and all because of a children’s book, titled Anton’s Circus!
Next, we were off to Waukegan with Mary Carmody of Branch 110 as host. In attendance was Donna Torkelson, a 2nd grade teacher who is working on her Master’s degree, she has opted to develop a Capstone rather than writing a thesis. A Capstone is the integration of educational experiences with independent research. Donna was centering her research on Multicultural Education, the influence of literature in cultures.
Jana Hlade
For Slovenian immigrants founded St. Joseph School over 110
years ago. Slovenian immigrants built the Stonich Building in 1909, which 100 years later, houses our museum. St. Joseph Church was completed in 1905 and was also built by Slovenian families. These
three structures create an honorable and historical scene on North Chicago Street. So it is most fitting that the first event for children in our museum would be a children’s book tour. The interaction of St. Joseph students with an author and illustrator ,from Slovenia, hearing the written word and experiencing the artistic talent of the illustrator in our museum was an exciting adventure.
I feel strongly about books! Books are powerful, they mirror life. We have only one life, but a book allows immersion into the lives of others. A book allows us to experience the fantasy, adventure and problem solving of others. So it was with Anton’s Circus; meeting and interacting with a live author and illustrator, hearing about a foreign country, its language and hearing of the adventures of Anton and Leopold as they search for a solution to their problem. And then the smiles as the students watching Damijan’s arm move in fast circles as he recreated Leopold on a bicycle!
From Janet Schulman comes her metaphor, “books help give children a leg up the ladder of life”. The Forget-me-nots books are for children of all ages. The books exemplify the beauty of language, both English and Slovenian and the joy of reading. But in today’s world, a language spoken by only a few million is cause for serious thought. Why the books? They are saying “Forget-me-not”.
A gracious thank you:
To Jana Bauer of Slovenia, the author of the first hook published in the Forget-me-nots series, In the Land of Gingerbread.
To Sodobnost International and Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenes Abroad for sponsoring Peter Svetina and Damijan Stepančič.
To Agnes Cerer, President of the Slovenian National Library, Inc, Children s Library in Cleveland, for her belief in children s literature; for co-sponsoring the tour in Cleveland.
To David Hočevar of Richmond Heights, Ohio who accommodated Peter and Damijan for 3 days and 2 nights during their stay in Cleveland. Being fluent in Slovenian was a plus for our guests.
To Phil Hrvatin, Senior Editor of the Slovenian American	Times
(Slovenski Ameriški Casi) for the multitude of photographs and his keen interest in the Forget-me-nots book series.
To Mary Carmody, Branch 110, Waukegan for organizing	and
sponsoring the tour and for the multitude of photographs which can be seen on our website (www.swua.org), and for her belief in what children s literature is all about.
To Mary and Felix Mavec for sharing their lovely home, for their warm hospitality and their skill in carrying on a conversation in Slovenian, during the 5 days Peter and Damijan were in the area. Their in volvement is proof that the flame of Slovenian spirit is still alive in Joliet.
To Paula Mavec, for taking on the role of Slovenian/English translator, for being on the clean up committee, for moral support and for treating all to lunch.
To Sonja DePratt for, escorting Peter and Damijan, via train to Chicago, and for showing the beauty of the Windy City. And to Sonj a's son, Collin, who met them for dinner.
To Mark Hlade who assisted his wife in preparing the museum for the book tour, for moving the flat screen andfor setting and “unsetting” chairs and moving furniture.
And most of all to Jana Hlade, who in my absence, made the Joliet adventure a success, a great experience for Peter and Damijan and for the students of St. Joseph School. As you can see, a book tour requires much organization, and much time and effort by many. To all those, and lest I have forgotten anyone, thank you.
To je to,
Mary Lou Deyak Voelk
Memories of Visiting Šmarješke Toplice
Adventures of One Amazing Day
by Bernadette Kovačič Fitzsimmons, Zarja Journalist
Hotel šmarjeta
•	. , si' .V '
*
Notranji termalni’bazeni /	^
Indoor thermal pools
Športni park / Sport park
\anji termalni bazeni / »utdoor thermal pools
One of the highlights of my trip to Slovenia was visiting Šmarješke Toplice, a modern health spa center near Novo Mesto in the Dolenjska region. On Saturday morning, October 18, 2008 Mojca Šosterič from KOMPAS International Travel Corporation and her husband Janez picked me up at Tatjana and Marko’s house in Dob pri Domžalah near Ljubljana where I was staying to begin our adventure. Janez drove swiftly on the freeway on a gorgeous fall day while we conversed about the picturesque scenery and periodic day trips to Šmarješke Toplice. Janez described his positive experiences with the spa treatment plan following a heart attack two years before. He went on to describe his two week stay, 100% covered by health insurance, including a full two weeks at the spa, swimming in the mineral waters, and being closely monitored by physicians while using equipment for moderate exercise to improve his cardiovascular system. He said the benefits were noticeable; he typically feels very relaxed after swimming in the thermal waters and is encouraged by his physician to use the spa as often as possible.
After about an hour’s drive we arrived at the entrance of Šmarješke Toplice, the parking lot full of cars with license plates from various regions of Slovenia, and other neighboring countries. We entered through a large foyer resembling a busy upscale hotel and noticed a number of people walking around in terrycloth robes and casual attire. Mojca had arranged for us to meet one of the sales staff members to give us a tour of the facility; after a few minutes, Ms. Eva Cepec, a young professional from the sales department greeted us and conducted an informative tour of the facility.
Eva first showed us a standard room in the hotel section and then we walked past the massage and facial treatment rooms. Through more corridors she showed us laboratories used for people to improve cardiovascular fitness for athletes and other’s recovering from cardiovascular ailments, such as the stationary bicycles, each fitted with a blood pressure cuff. On the other side of the room there were computer monitors for physicians and nurses to track cardiac output and blood pressure readings.
We continued down long corridors of glass enclosed rooms with different types of equipment designed to treat people with various problems associated with car accidents, knee and ankle problems, sports related injuries and a myriad of other musculoskeletal and cardiovascular problems. One of the most interesting rooms we visited was very high tech with a bicycle type machine that was actually a fat burning machine equipped with infra red rays that penetrate muscles to increase calories burned during exercise. The MEDISAT machine is used in conjunction with a slim fit and detoxification program, including complete diet regimen for at least two weeks.
Eva showed us a darkened room with twinkling lights and soft music for relaxation used during massage and facial treatments.
I was impressed by the professionalism of the staff and cleanliness of the facility. As we walked through the halls, I simply felt like we were in a humongous high tech futuristic capsule. The entire facility felt warm and humid since there are several thermal pools, located both inside and outside with a constant temperature of 32 Celsius, which is 89.60 degrees Fahrenheit, and suitable for patients with cardiovascular ailments. At one point during the facility tour we could see a steaming
outdoor thermal pool down below with just a few people swimming around, and many more in the enclosed
section. Eva took us
through the large dining room and explained that dieticians devised
meal plans suggested by	personal
physicians for dietary needs of all patients.
After the facility tour, Eva and I sat down and I asked her a few questions to share with Zarja readers. The following are excerpts from the interview:
Thank you so much for giving us a tour of this high tech spa facility. We were Ms. Eva Cepec	very	impressed	with	the tour
and this well known resort like spa.
Question - Who primarily comes to Šmarješke Toplice for treatment?
Eva-About30%ofour guests were sent here by National Health Organizations for treatment. Most of our patients are treated for cardiovascular diseases or knee injuries. Although the majority of our patients are from Slovenia, some of our patients come from neighboring European countries. Šmarješke Toplice is known as one of the best wellness centers in Europe.
Question - How long do people typically stay at this facility? Can a person walk in without reservations?
Eva - Most patients that are referred by a physician for treatment come for a period of two weeks. For example, all services are 100% covered, including treatments, boarding and meals for someone recovering from a heart attack, sports injury or a car accident. Cardiovascular patients leave feeling rejuvenated, and people who walked in on crutches or limping leave feeling reborn without crutches. The treatments are doctor prescribed and all are measurable, and reported in the patient’s chart.
A number of guests walk in and use the facility for a few hours for a modest fee. Usually walk-ins use the thermal pools, sauna and have a meal. It is very relaxing here in the Dolenjska region with many forests, fresh air and wildlife. People come to relax, read and take a short break from the stresses of life. The most popular stays are for a long weekend, but reservations must be made in advance. There are 150 beds and today we are completely booked. Many of our services for facials and massages are also booked, so visitors should make reservations in advance for desired treatments either on-line or by telephone.
Question - One of the most interesting high tech pieces of equipment was the fat burning MEDI SAT exercise bike. Can you tell me more about how and why this is used?
Eva - The MEDI SAT machine is primarily used by patients who come in for the slim fit and detoxification program lasting for two weeks. The infra red beams are absorbed in the muscles to burn fat quicker than traditional exercise. It takes a full 30 minutes of continuous exercise to begin burning fat, but by using this bike, it only takes a few minutes to get to that point. This is very beneficial for some people who find it difficult to exercise for a long period and want quicker weight loss results.
Question - This is my first visit to a spa in Slovenia and I’m looking forward to using the thermal pools and sauna. Do you have any recommendations on what pools to use or what order is most beneficial for my short visit.
Eva - I recommend you use the thermal pools first, followed by the saunas. Although it is a cool day, you may swim outdoors, as the water is warm. I wish you a pleasant stay and wonderful day here at our beautiful spa center.
Bernadette - Thank you again for your time today. I’m sure members of the SWUA will find this information about the health spa interesting and hope they can visit the facility for at least a few hours on their next visit to Slovenia.
Following the interview, Mojca, Janez and I walked to the changing rooms and pool areas; we swam and relaxed in the warm thermal pools. I ventured to the outside area, swam laps, sat by the massaging jets and particularly enjoyed swimming backstroke and soaking up the warm mid-October sunshine in Slovenia. I have to admit that swimming at Šmarješke Toplice is much different and more invigorating than swimming in a chlorinated indoor or outdoor pool; it truly relaxed all my muscles and I felt rejuvenated from head to toe after my first experience swimming in thermal waters.
Afterwards Mojca and I went to the sauna area, each finding the ideal sauna (there were seven different types to pick from). Following the sauna, Mojca suggested relaxing in the reclining chairs in an airy room with skylights, filled with natural plants and soft music.
We helped ourselves to herbal tea and simply relaxed before going back to the dressing rooms to change and leave this paradise of peacefulness.
To learn more about Šmarješke Toplice, go to: www.terme-krka.si/en/smarjeske/dobrodosli
Since we were only a few kilometers from the Grad Otočec (Otočec Castle), we stopped in the late afternoon to take in the sights of this medieval fortress, people roaming the grounds in period dress and even an actual Slovenian wedding in the courtyard. As we walked back, crossing the bridge admiring the fall colors reflecting into the lake surrounding the castle, two accordionists dressed in the Gorenjska national costume were preparing to serenade the newlyweds. There were trays of desserts and guests anxiously awaiting the happy couple outside in the parking lot.
We stopped for a relaxing dinner of fresh roast pork, roast potatoes, salad and beer at a gostilna a few kilometers down the road and reminisced about our wonderful day at Šmarješke Toplice. Within an hour, we were back near Ljubljana around 8:00 pm where I was staying at the Kokalj’s home. I bid farewell to Mojca and Janez, thanked them for taking me on this memorable trip as Tatjana and Marko welcomed me at their front door, anxious to hear about my adventure. We sat down in their living room and
I	shared my digital photos and told them about my awesome day in the Dolenjska region. It wasn’t long before I asked them about their day and how their family was doing. Just when I thought my adventures of October 18 had ended, Marko asked me to join him for a short car ride to visit his mother in Šiška, located right on the outskirts of Ljubljana. She greeted her son and I and we sat and talked for at least an hour with Marko’s mother, his brother and his wife. Marko’s mother offered us chamomile tea, potica
Mojca and Bernadette at Grad Otočec
and strudel which she made herself. (See Granny’s Potica recipe on page 44 of May/June Zarja.)
On the couch beside where I was sitting, a beautiful sweater was in the works for one of her grandchildren. She explained that knitting is her favorite hobby and that all family members, children and adults receive a handmade sweater from her each year on their birthday. It is a large family with lots of grandchildren, so she is busy knitting everyday for many hours to keep up this family tradition. When I complimented her work, she brought completed hand knit sweaters she had made; the most beautiful patterns and colors I’d ever seen lay before my eyes. We said lahko noč (goodnight) and once we returned to the Kokalj’s home it didn’t take long to fall asleep after such a remarkable day in Slovenia.
Special thanks (najlepša hvala) to Tatjana and Marko Kokalj, the wonderful couple who hosted me at their home for most of my stay in Slovenia, 2008 and to Mojca and Janez Šosterič for their kindness in coordinating the day trip to the health spa and the Dolenjska region.
A new book “Anton Peterlin 1908 - 1993 Življenje in delo - His Life and Work ” has been donated to the SWUA Heritage Museum Library
A new book, "Anton Peterlin 1908 - 1993 Življenje in delo - His Life and Work ” has been donated to the SWUA Heritage Museum library by Dr. Tanja Peterlin-Neumaier. Dr: Neumaier spearheaded the completion of this life story of her father, Dr. Anton Peterlin with documentation of scientific contributions and letters of correspondence. Included in the book are Dr. Peterlin’s actual written accounts and struggles of strengthening the science and physics program at the University of Ljubljana. One of Peterlin’s most challenging contributions was the establishment of the Jozef Stefan Institute in Ljubljana, known throughout the world and scientific community.
Pictured are SWUA National Board members during the NBD meeting, Bernadette Kovacic Fitzsimmons, VP of Marketing and Fundraising presenting the book on behalf of Dr. Tanja Peterlin-Neumaier to Mary Lou Voelk, VP of Culture and Heritage.
Anja (Tatjana and Marko s daughter) Bernadette, Tatjana and Marko at a farewell gathering at Evald and Jana Flisar’s home in Ljubljana
BARAGA DAYS 2009 BRINGS EXCITING NEWS to MANY!
Fredric Baraga, bom June 29, 1797 in Slovenia, served Upper Michigan as one of the earliest Native American missionaries and also as the first Bishop of the Diocese of Marquette. Two succeeding Slovenian immigrants, Bishop Vertin and Bishop Mrak also served as shepherds of the Diocese of Marquette. All three are buried in a most venerated crypt at St.
Peter’s Cathedral, Marquette,
Michigan.
This year, the annual Baraga Day celebration was held September 26 and 27 in Marquette. St. Peters Cathedral was filled to capacity with over 500 pilgrims including some very special groups: Slovenian Women’s Union of America members from Chicago, Milwaukee, Marquette, Cleveland and Lemont regions, descendents of Bishop Mrak’s family, the Singing Slovenes, Slovenian Octet Kres which sang at the Cathedral and Bishop Baraga Man of the Year, Father Aloysius J. Hribsek. Father Hribsek, a young Slovenian seminarian, who suffered brutally for his religious beliefs during WW1I at the hands of the Communist Partisans. He later was able to escape to Padua, Italy, where he continued his theological studies, becoming a Salesian priest, and later studying in America.
Of all of the beautiful choral, brass ensemble and organ music, the most moving part of the Baraga English Mass was pilgrim participation in singing an Ojibwe hymn written by Fr. Baraga, entitled “Ninzhawedaagoz” (translation: “ 1 am truly blessed. God our Father in heaven is always good to me.”), led by Larry Martin a tribal member of LacCourte Oreilles Ojibwe, a retired Director of American Indian Studies at the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire.
Elizabeth Delene, a native of L’Anse, Michigan, has been the archivist and organizer of all Baraga promotional activities since 1996 when she became employed at the Bishop Baraga Association while working on her master’s degree in history at Northern Michigan University. With no plans to stay in the area, after receiving her masters degree in 1997, she says, “Things kept happening to keep me here and today I see that is a natural fit. ” Elizabeth grew up on Baraga Avenue in L’Anse and knew well of Baraga’s life. Bernard Lambert was a resident of L’Anse and he wrote a biography of Bishop Baraga entitled Shepherd of the Wilderness. Elizabeth says that we all should read this book and she still remembers how Mr. Lambert attributed his ability to walk without crutches as an intercession by Fredric Baraga. Elizabeth has visited Slovenia and remarked on how impressed she was that people in Slovenia still remember and regard Bishop Baraga in such high honor. She added, it’s the Slovenian people here in the United States that are the best supporters. Membership continues to grow each year under Elizabeth’s leadership. In 1996, the Baraga Association had 1,600 subscribers. Today the total is near 4,000.
For more information on the sainthood process, visit the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop’s web site at: http://www.usccb.org/comm/SaintsFinal.pdf
Contact Elizabeth Delene, Archivist 347 Rock Street, Marquette, Michigan 49855-4725, Telephone 906.227.9117 fredericbaraga.org
Photos by Fr. Drago Gocnik - of St. Gregory, Hamilton
In his talk at the business meeting,	Marquette
Diocese’s current Most Reverend	Alexander
Sample announced that a new postulator for the cause of sainthood of Fredric Baraga has been hired. Dr. Andrea Ambrosi of Rome, Italy visited Marquette on September 24 to interview physicians who were involved in the treatment of people the diocese feels may be potential miracles. Dr. Ambrosi is working hard to promote the cause for beatification of Fredric Baraga. After decades of petitioning, research and praying, it appears now Slovenian missionary, Bishop Fredric Baraga will finally reach the position of sainthood: one that he richly deserves.
Turvey and Corinne Leskove r
at Baraga Days 2009
Slovenian Women’s Union of America
2011 SWUA NATIONAL CONVENTION Slovenian Win Calendar February 2010 Fund-Raiser $10.00 PER TICKET
CASH PRIZES TOTALLING $2,230
24 Daily Drawings at $50.00 Feb. 1st and 28th at $100.00 Feb. 8th and 14th at $200.00 28 Daily Seller Prizes at $10.00
Top Seller Prizes:
1st Place-$100.00 2nd Place - $50.00 Towards Convention Package
2011 SWUA National Convention
SWUA holds its’ Nat’1 Convention every four years in host cities around the country. These gatherings are important not only to conduct SWUA business but to have a forum for branch representatives to come together to give their reports, share their ideas, discuss concerns and further cement their mutual love and respect for all things related to their Slovenian heritage. Our next SWUA Nat’l Convention will be held in Milwaukee, WI, from June 16th thru 19th, 2011.
Plans are underway to make this another memorable event. The successful completion of this “Slovenian Win Calendar” fund raiser will provide monies to help defray the costs of conducting SWUA’s Nat’l Convention. The Convention Committee is striving to offer an affordable convention package to enable delegates from every SWUA branch to attend. The calendars make excellent gifts for the holiday season, birthdays and to say “Thank You.”
How Does the Fund-Raiser Work?
Everyone participating in the SWUA “Slovenian Win Calendar” fund-raiser has the chance to win cash prizes. Each day in the month of February, 2010, one winner will be chosen to win the listed cash prize for that day -$50.00, $ 100.00 or $200.00. In addition, each day the person who sold that day’s winning ticket will win $ 10.00. The daily winner and seller can be one and the same and win both prizes.
Winners chosen on the 1sl and 28lh of February will win $100.00 each. The month of February has long represented love and our beloved Slovenia is the only country in the world with “love” in its name. Thus, the names chosen on February 8th, Prešeren Day, the Slovenian Cultural Holiday and February 14th, Valentine’s Day, will win $200.00 each. In addition, the top sellers, 1st and 2nd place, will win $100.00 and $50.00 respectively towards their Convention package. It’s a WIN opportunity for everyone.
Your Participation is Appreciated!
Good Luck!
Slovenian Women’s Union of America
2011 SWUA NATIONAL CONVENTION Slovenian Win Calendar February 2010 Fund-Raiser Registration Information
The cut-off entry form attached should be printed clearly of the winning entries will receive $10.00 as an and accompany your $10.00 donation. Return your award for their selling efforts. The daily drawing completed form by mail to Denise P. Bartlett’s home office amount and the seller’s $10.00 prize will be mailed (please do not send cash by mail):	to the winners of record the next business day.
Winners will be personally contacted and names Denise P. Bartlett, SWUA Treasurer	also posted on the website: www.swua.org.
Nat’l Convention Fund Raiser 7902 West Howard Avenue	Need	additional entries?
Milwaukee, WI 53220-1612	Contact	Denise P. Bartlett at:
Home Phone: 414. 327.4990 or Your “Slovenian Win Calendar” entry will be eligible for	denisepbartlett@wi.rr.com
alldaily drawings in the month of February, 2010. Sellers
i
u
T
Entry Form
(Do Not Cut Form in Half)
Purchaser’s Information:	Seller’s Information:	,	H
Name:	Name:
R
Address:	Address:	i	E
City:	City:
State:	Zip Code:	State:	Zip Code:
Phone:		Phone:	
Branch Location and Number:
Complete Form - Please Print DETACH ENTRY FORM - MAIL $10.00 Check Payable to SWUA to
Denise P. Bartlett SWUA National Treasurer
Tour Slovenia
Sponsored by Zarja The Dawn October 20-30, 2010
You Are Invited!
Come explore the “Secrets of Slovenia II” as we take you on another magical journey through Slovenia’s back roads. Your Zaija hosts Debbie Pohar and Bonnie Pohar Prokup promise you another opportunity of a lifetime.
This time our magical journey will start off on the east side of Slovenia where we will spend time in Maribor, Ptuj and concentrate on the hidden secrets of the Prekmurje region. Later we will travel across the country with dynamic stops along the way to the coastline where we will dedicate days to the beauty of the Adriatic Sea and its surroundings. We will finish the tour in the capital city of Ljubljana.
Just like last time we will have free days where you can meet up with family and friends or take part in an optional tour, your wish is our command! If you would like to extend your stay and spend more time in Slovenia this can be arranged.
Debbie and Bonnie have years of experience in escorting and designing trips to Europe. From the moment you show interest in joining this tour all the way to your flight home, they will be there for you. Not only will you have their individual attention but also that of a professional tour guide from Slovenia with excellent English and Kollander Travel.
Come travel with us on a new fully guided tour of our beautiful Slovenia.
Let us do the work for you!
Space is limited, save your spot now! Call Judy at Kollander World Travel at 1.800.800.5981 x 3 or Bonnie Pohar Prokup at 815.223.9596 or wprokup@aol.com.
SECRETS OF SLOVENIA II
Tour Slovenia Sponsored by Zarja The Dawn
OCTOBER 20- 30, 2010
Visiting
Maribor Portorož Ljubljana Ptuj Rogatec Bizeljsko Kranj Škofja Loka
KOLLANDER WORLD TRAVEL
»71 list IM* Street I CJuveUnd. Ohio 4411» (800)800-5981 I (216)692-1000
WWW	<	om
Land Tour Includes
* Accompanied by a professional local tour manager
* Excellent hotels
* Four (4) wine cellar visits and tastings
* Buffet breakfast daily/1 lunch/6 dinners included
* Authentic Roman dinner in Ptuj
* Lunch and wine tasting at a typical tourist farm
* Deluxe private motor coach
* Hosted by Bonnie Pohar Prokup and Debbie Pohar
* Farewell dinner at a specialty restaurant in Ljubljana
Day 1: 20 OCTOBER - Depart from your home cities to Slovenia.
Day 2: 21 OCTOBER (Arrival to Maribor) Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Maribor. You will have the rest of the day at your leisure until we meet for dinner in one of the most famous “gostilnas” in the Štajerska region with excellent cuisine. (D)
Day 3: 22 OCTOBER (Maribor - Ptuj - Maribor) In
the morning, enjoy a short walking tour of Maribor with a visit to the Vinag wine cellar, a tunnel in the city centre. You will have enough time for lunch on your own, shopping or just relax in one of the numerous cafes. In the afternoon travel to the medieval town of Ptuj and take a walk though the picturesque streets and visit the Ptuj castle. Since the origin of Ptuj is Roman, you will travel back in time and enjoy an Old Roman dinner, where you will be dressed in Roman clothes and eat typical Roman food. Return to Maribor for overnight. (B,WT,D)
Day 4: 23 OCTOBER (Prekmurje) Today will be dedicated to discovering the secrets of Prekmurje and its river Mura. Visit the town of Verzej and the town of Ižakovci with the island of love. Admire the Babic floating mill and enjoy a typical snack from the region. On the way back to Maribor visit the Gornja Radgona sparkling wine cellar. Return to Maribor for overnight. (B,WT)
Day 5: 24 OCTOBER (Bogojina) Travel to Bogojina to visit this charming town. Then to Filovci, the town of pottery, where you will visit the pottery museum. After the visit, you will experience the local cuisine and taste local “Bograc” goulash with “Prekmurska gibanica” for dessert. End the day with dinner in local restaurant with music. (B,D)
Day 6: 25 OCTOBER (Maribor to Rogatec and Bizeljsko region) In the morning travel to Rogatec and visit an open air heritage museum where workshops will be organized for participants to be able to get involved in the making of different handcrafts. We will then drive south to the Bizeljsko region and visit the wine cellar, Repinca. Continue to Portorož for dinner and overnight. (B,WT,D)
Day 7: 26 OCTOBER (Portorož) Day at leisure in Portorož. (B)
Day 8: 27 OCTOBER (Portorož - Ljubljana) Travel to the western part of Slovenia and one of the most popular wine regions, Goriška Brda. Admire the hilly landscape and visit the town of Gonjaee from where you can admire a magnificent view of the region. Then on to the picturesque
town of Šmartno and visit a typical house before arriving in Dobrovo, the center of the region. Visit a local wine cellar with wine tasting. Late in the evening travel to Ljubljana for overnight at your hotel. (B,L,WT)
Day 9: 28 OCTOBER (Ljubljana) Start your day with a walking tour of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Visit the most significant sights of the old city centre: the picturesque Central Open-air Market and the Three Bridges, both designed by famous architect Joze Plečnik. See the Baroque Town Hall and Robba’s Fountain. The rest of the day is at leisure to discover the charms of Ljubljana on your own, relax in numerous cafes or stroll the quaint streets. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. (B,D)
DaylO: 29 OCTOBER (Kranj and Škotja Loka) Today regarded as a ‘Museum City’, Škofja Loka was for centuries a proud independent property of the Freising dominion and during that time numerous guilds developed within its walls. The intertwining of culture and nature inspired numerous artists, who also left their traces in the town. Strolling along the streets, we will admire the town’s flourishing history, reflected in rich architecture, colorful facades and splendid churches. On a 600-year-old bridge we unfurl legends from the past, and the visit to the magnificent castle will give us an insight into the art, craft and everyday life of the town’s residents. Kranj prides itself on its beautiful old centre and the impressive canyon of the River Krka. It is also regarded as ‘Preseren’s town’, as Slovenia’s greatest poet spent the last years of his life there. We will visit the house he called home, still featuring the original 19th century furniture. In the centre we will admire the prominent houses surrounding the lively main square with the Town Hall, see a memorial to Prešeren, and visit the majestic Gothic Church of St. Kancijan. Return to Ljubljana for farewell dinner at local restaurant. (B,D)
Day 11: 30 OCTOBER (Depart Slovenia) After breakfast transfer to Ljubljana airport. (B)
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Branch Reports Poročila Podružnic
BRANCH 1 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Several members attended the Wisconsin State Convention in Milwaukee hosted by Branch 43. We arrived at Klemmers Hall in time for a continental breakfast before the start of the business meeting which opened with prayer by Yvonne Khaldy, State President. The attendance was good, considering Baraga Day was being held in Michigan at the same time. This is an annual event important in Slovenian culture and heritage. Denise P. Bartlett, Branch 43 member and National Treasurer, held our attention with her informative talk regarding the present and future events and activities, especially the National Convention to be held in Milwaukee in 2011. It was a good day, ending with a fine dinner, prizes and entertainment by Uspeh.
Our Branch 1 craft sale was held November 7 and 8. We thank Aggie and members who volunteered hours of time to this effort. To all who contributed in any way, a sincere thank you. The proceeds will contribute toward preparation of the 2010 100th anniversary of our beloved SS Cyril and Methodius church.
Josephine Janezic and Yvonne Khaldy of Branch 43 were guests at our October meeting. Josephine was the invited guest speaker. In her delightful accent, she spoke of her childhood in Slovenia to her coming to America. One must hear her speak and only can partly appreciate the difficulties, especially the tragic World War II.
May the New Year bring good health and happiness to all of our members.
ANGIE FRITZ
BRANCH 2 - Chicago, Illinois
As we begin a New Year, may you all enjoy good health and be showered with God’s Blessing in 2010.
Nine members attended the IL/IN Convention hosted by Branch 99, who did an excellent job. Joe Skala proceeded over the meeting. Next year will be held in Oglesby, IL on September 19. Denise P. Bartlett told us about the National Convention which will beheld June 11-16,2011. We have much to look forward to.
Some members were unable to attend the convention because they were preparing for our Penny Social the following day. Our bakery booth was filled with potica, strudels, horns, brownies, cakes, cookies, etc. There were treasures to find at the Christmas Corner where the junior members were eager to hunt. We were thankful they were present to deliver the penny items to the 100 winners. This event is an opportunity to visit, play bingo, chat and laugh. Two workers celebrated birthdays; Gen Buol and Tom Cukale.
Wedding congratulations to Kathy Kochniarczyk and John Ward and to Jenny Kochniarczyk who graduated from St. Francis Nursing. They are daughters of JoAnn and their grandmothers are Barbara Kochniarczyk and Mary Podder.
The 2010 Officers are: President - Fran Morison (her 30th year), Vice-President - Joe Worthm, Secretary/ Treasurer - Delores Puhek, Recording Secretary - Debbie Morris and Auditors - Lenore Urbanski, Jennie Kovacic and Mary Podder, Kitchen - Helen Cukale, Gen Buol and D. Železnikar, Reporter - Daisy. Because of illness, Geneva Cerjak resigned, we thank you for, all the help you gave SWUA, and we hope you are feeling better.
At Christmas we remembered our oldest members with a live Christmas tree and to the other shut ins a floral piece. Please remember our Troops in your prayers that they will be safe and return home soon.
LOVE DAISY
Rose Ceferin, Branch 2 also wrote about her lovely trip to Europe including a visit to Slovenia. Rose and her husband, Vic, traveled with their son Mike on an European adventure, where Mike became engaged to Gabriela Arreola in Rome, Italy. While in Slovenia they visited many of the famous sites and also took time to visit the villages of their ancestors.
BRANCH 5 - Indianapolis, Indiana
Greetings to all Branch 5 members! Mary, Karen and I would like to wish all of you a Happy New Year! We realize we need to up-date our phone list so we can reach members in case of changes to our plans. If you have e-mail, send your name, address and phone number to POTICA@AOL.COM. That is Karen’s e-mail. If you do not have e-mail, please drop me a note at: Phyllis Fon, 7151 Windridge Way, Brownsburg, IN 46112. This will really help us!
We lost many long time members and their families this year, due to age or illness. Several families had multiple deaths to cope with, others have felt the tightness of the economy and job loss. One way or another, keep our members and their families in your thoughts and prayers. Everyone can always use an extra “guardian angel” on his or her side!
We rallied at the end of 2009 and had meetings in September, October and November. September brought unexpected visitors from Slovenia to join us at our meeting, and form new friendships. (See next page for details.) Our annual memorial Mass in October, followed by “Koffee and Krofe” was very well attended. It is always a nice way to remember past members and their families. Our November meeting was good food and bingo!! Let’s make every meeting in 2010 special! Bring in a new member for Branch 5, or have someone renew his or her membership.
Slovenians in the City by Betsy Fon Walker, Branch 5
It was a sunny Saturday afternoon when I was off to join in a SWUA luncheon down at the National Home. Getting together with the ladies is always a good time to catch up on the comings and goings of everyone lives and also to eat all the delicious food that everyone brings to share.
This luncheon however brought more than good food, it brought four(4) strangers into our midst. As we are getting ready to eat and start the meeting, we notice four young adults enter, decked out in blue and white Colts gear. This is very common attire here in Indianapolis due to the great following of our NFL team and usually wherever you go, someone has on blue and white. What caught our attention was the fact that these people were speaking Slovenian.
At the Nash we have a Slovenian “Wall of Fame”, displaying people from our heritage that have been influential in the community. I notice that one of the boys, Gaj, has taken an interest in the picture of Tom Zupančič. Tom works with the Colts and has a radio show that broadcasts before each game. Being the friendly person that I am, or should I say nosy, I strike up a conversation. Turns out that Gaj is a HUGE Colts fan and they made the trip from Slovenia to Indianapolis just for the game, and then they were heading down to Miami for the game the week after! Gaj said that he watches the games over the Internet and listens to Tom’s radio show every week and wonders if he would be able to meet Tom. So we give it a shot and make a phone call and talk to Tom!
Tom is very generous with his time and offers to meet our new friends after his radio show the next morning. They were super excited and couldn’t wait to get to the stadium the next day! We chat for a little longer to see what they had planned while they were in Indianapolis. They had not rented a car and were getting around by cabs, so I offer to be their tour guide for the day and the adventure began.
Gaj, Sami, Peter and Nika all pile into my car and we were off to see as much as we could in one afternoon. We hit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and tour the museum and took pictures sitting in race cars. We went to Crown Hill cemetery
where we saw the site where people were buried during the Civil war. Crown Hill is the 3rd largest cemetery in the US and the boys joked that it was bigger than their town Tolmin, a small town in the Soca Valley. Nika wanted to do a bit of shopping so I took her to TJ Max and she dove in to find the best bargains. Afterward I took them to get a taste of American beers and went to the Rock Bottom Brewery to rest our feet and get a bite to eat. Peter owns and runs a gostinlla in Slovenia so I hope he was impressed with what they had to offer.
The next day I picked them up at their hostel north of downtown and we headed down to tailgate before the game. They were a little unsure about what “tailgating” was, so until we were there and saw everyone eating and grilling and playing com-hole, they were a little hesitant. They said in Slovenia, you go to a game and then you go home. It was surprising to see how many people showed up early to celebrate the team. We split before the game and they went to meet Tom at his radio show and we made plans to meet up at a restaurant afterward.
The game was close and I was praying that the Colts would pull our a win for our friends and they did! I met them back at the restaurant and Gaj looked as excited as a kid on Christmas morning. Tom met them after his radio show and spent some time with them talking about their trip. He would have liked to take them out on the field but for security reasons, he wasn’t able with such short notice. Instead he gave them his contact information and offered to send them some souvenirs from the Colts back in Slovenia. They were excited and grateful that he was able to meet with them.
After two long days, we said our goodbyes and exchanged e-mails and they offered to take me around Slovenia the next time we come to visit. I told them they better return the favor!
It’s funny how you wake up one day and plan to have lunch with the SWUA and fate brings you to meet four incredible people that make your normal afternoon turn into a weekend you’ll never forget. Hopefully it won’t be long until we can make it back to Slovenia and cash in on that favor.
Tell us your ideas for a fun meeting...how about a Friday night meeting at the Nash and let Joe cook for all of us?
We look forward to whatever 2010 may bring us, and may it bring all of us good luck, good fortune and good friends! Your favorite partners in crime...
MARY, KAREN & PHYLLIS
BRANCH 13 - San Francisco, California
It doesn’t seem possible that this is the start of 2010!!!! We had a very successful year in 2009. Under the great leadership of President Doreen Sustarich, our membership is up and we have money in the bank and our active members don’t miss a meeting. What more can you ask for? We may not be a large group, but we are a happy group! Our meetings are filled with friendship, good food, good times and a lot of fun and laughs. And I must say the National Board of Directors have led us into the 21st century in great style. Aren’t computers wonderful!!! Just look at the Zarja magazine. We can’t wait to get them.
We in Branch 13 enjoy celebrating, you name it -Christmas, Easter, Valentine Day, Thanksgiving, Halloween, the start of summer. Just give us a reason and we’ll celebrate with decorations and great food. And we did celebrate every holiday in 2009. Our Pot Luck Luncheons get better every year! SWUA is the Greatest Women’s Organization there is. Our members are always trying the recipes in Zarja. I made my first successful potica last year. What a happy day that was. I know my Mom was looking down smiling at me and saying “Way to go!”
On behalf of our Board of Directors I would like to invite all of our members to join us at any time. We are changing our meeting day from Thursday to Wednesday in 2010. The meeting/luncheon starts at noon at the Slovenian Hall on the comer of Vermont and Mariposa Streets in San Francisco. If you can make it, call President Doreen Sustarich at 415.468.5039 and let her know what you would like to bring for the luncheon.
BARBARA CHIODO bchiodo@comcast.net
BRANCH 14 - Euclid, Ohio
Our Christmas Dinner was held the first Tuesday of December at the Slovenian Society Home in Euclid. Everyone had a wonderful time savoring the traditional Slovenian dinner prepared by Sophie Mazi and her helpers and our raffle. We had members of the Slovenian American National Art Guild, some of whom are also SWUA members. These dinners are an important social event for everyone because in some cases, they are the only times we get to see our friends of many years.
Thanks again to Stana Grill for all her hard work in gathering reservations and planning seating arrangements for the dinner. We don’t know what we would do without her.
In spite of some serious health problems, our president, Diane Varney, insisted that the dinner take place as scheduled. She knew that her late mother, Jennie Fitzhum, who was also our president, would have wanted Branch 14 to continue as usual and Diane made every effort to see that happen. May God shower her with blessings for restored health so that she will live a productive life for many years to come.
Thanks so much to the Zarja staff for awarding me the “Beehive Front Panel Grand Prize Winner” for my beehive panel, which contrasts the traditional and modern Slovenians. The page, which showed the panel and the accompanying explanation, was beautifully done and again
I	thank everyone. In spite of the fact that some of the details in the original drawing were lost due to the need to reduce the size of the original drawing, the reproduction was very well done. I have always heard that my Slovenian ancestors must have raised bees, and in my own way, 1 have continued to do the same.
Again, please say a prayer for our president, Diane Varney that she gets well soon.
PATRICIA A. BUDZILEK
BRANCH 16 - South Chicago, Illinois
This is a slow time for our branch, so there isn’t too much to report on except things about which we are not too happy. In the months of October, and November within two weeks we lost two loyal members. In October, Olga Kowalkowski fell and within that week she passed away; just this week her sister-in-law Fran Zupančič passed away; we extend our deepest sympathies to their families. We enjoyed their company very much when they were able to be at meetings.
At our Christmas Party we will have a special Candle Ceremony for our deceased members for this year, which also includes Clara Saviano and Helen Milanovich. In January (2010) we will have a Mass said in honor of the four deceased members. Anyone interested can call any
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Our President, Marjorie and her husband Bob have run into some bad times. They are both on the sick list and would welcome your prayers for a speedy recovery.
With all the bad news out of the way, we would like to wish everyone a very HAPPY NEW YEAR. We hope your Christmas was a very merry one.
DOROTHY ROSSI
BRANCH 20 - Joliet, Illinois
Happy and blessed New Year to members and readers everywhere! May you surround yourself with things that make you smile during the Midwest’s January and February winter months.
We learned all about the art of glassblowing and were able to purchase beautiful gifts at the Branch November meeting. We enjoyed a wonderful Christmas party with a bit of sunny Italy in December at Joliet’s Barolo Restaurant. Laughter, friendship, food and music a must at any Slovenian party.
Officers will be inducted during the January meeting by spiritual advisor Father Tom Paul. Once again, the 2009 officers graciously agreed to continue in 2010. Charlene Kobe, President, is in her 19th year as leader; Jeanne Warsaw, VP; Jean Herbst, Treasurer; Robyn Coyne, Correspondence Secretary; Grace Doerk, Recording Secretary; Pat Schager, Zarja Reporter; Jo Lustik, Bernice Nemanich and Pat Butterbach, Auditors; Nancy Horwath and Sandra Kehring, Sgts. At Arms.
An urgent message from Carol Ryba to all members who have email - membership dues invoices will be sent via
Branch 20 Scholarships
Adult Continuing Education Scholarship:
Member 21 years of age or over who is pursuing advanced or continuing education.
High School Scholarship:
Graduating eighth grader accepted to one of the Catholic high schools and is enrolled for the fall 2010 semester.
High School Scholarship:
Current high school student who wishes to continue in a Catholic high school or is planning to transfer from a public high school to a Catholic high school.
Scholastic ability must be shown as well as an evaluation of the applicant’s character and code of behavior. For eligibility information and application forms, contact:
Branch 20 Scholarship Program, %Geri Pope 3820 Hennepin Drive, Joliet, IL 60431
Applications must be received prior to April 1,2010
email. Please send email address to ryba4homeoffice@yahoo.com and you will receive an invoice for dues via email.
It was decided at the October meeting that in the future Branch 20 will no longer pay membership dues for insured members who will be turning 85 years of age as has been done in the past. Members previously receiving this benefit will continue to do so.
As always, our sincere condolences to the families and friends of deceased member Loretta Fuchs; also deceased member Thelma Minarich, whose daughter is member Nancy Horwath.
Word of wisdom from our Branch calendar of activities: You are who you are, not who you used to be.
PAT SCHAGER patricia.schager@sbcglobal.net
BRANCH 24 - LaSalle, Illinois
In November, we attended Mass at St. Bede Abbey for our deceased members, then enjoyed a lovely brunch at John’s North Star. We also wished Charles and Emily Marchiori a happy 62nd wedding anniversary.
Our Christmas party, hosted by Linda Struna and Mary Mecum was held at Bartley’s Supper Club on December 8. It is always a festive time that is enjoyed by all.
Millie Sanders, a dear cousin, passed away. She was a member of our branch, however, living in Merrilville, Indiana, she could not attend our meetings or events. She was a strong supporter of the SWUA and especially loved reading the Zarja. Her love of her Slovenian heritage was evident throughout her 87 years and was celebrated at her funeral - polka music! Our sympathy and prayers go out to her family and also to the family of Donald Kostellic, husband of member, Bemadine, who is also my sister. Donald passed away in November.
We continually pray for hope and healing for all our sick and shut-in members, especially Florence Dondelinger and Stefan Borys, husband of member, Arlene.
Delores Spelich represented our Branch at the Illinois/ Indiana convention and came home with a “glowing” report on the fine job Branch 99 did in hosting this event.
We extend a warm welcome to two new members - Mary Sterchi and Tina Kasperski, welcome aboard!
Our next meeting will be in March, when we are planning a cooking/baking demonstration. We’re not sure what we are going to be cooking, but, knowing us Slovenians, it’s going to be good!
With the New Year brings hope for the future, hope for peace on earth, hope for our troops to come home, hope for health and happiness. May all of these blessings be yours and until next time may your hearts be filled with peace.
LORETTA STORY 91ives@comcast.net
BRANCH 35 - Aurora, Minnesota
Branch 35 has celebrated our 80th anniversary of the annexation into The Slovenian Women’s Union of America on October 18, 2009. This was such a lovely party considering there were only 12 in attendance. Minnesota Regional President, Rosemary Ribich, could not join us but sent a letter of Congratulations.
We had our Charter Member’s table decorated with a beautiful centerpiece of red carnations and the names of all of our Charter Members. We found pictures of some of our Charter Members and hoping to find the rest. The flowers for the Charter Members were given to Kris Smolich Walbum, the granddaughter of one of our Charter Members, Mrs. Mary (Eli) Smolich. Bernice Ceglar our Sec/Treas., is the daughter of another Charter member, Mrs. Paula Pleveli. A toast was sung at this time, “Kol’kor Kaplic” for our ladies who worked hard to organize our branch.
Our meal was very gourmet, pork roast, baked with fresh apple chunks, absolutely delicious, a dressing with apples, raisins and pecans, mashed potatoes with sour cream and parsley, real pork gravy, cranberry jello, corn and applesauce, a tossed salad and dinner rolls. A delicious pumpkin dessert finished off our meal. The caterers were Shirley Wood and her husband from Cook, MN. They even stayed to watch the program.
John Stark played his button box and gave a wonderful presentation on his family’s trip to Slovenia in May. Last but not least, Anita prepared some envelopes with Slovenian folk songs inside. The ladies picked an envelope and then we sang the song. 1 think we had more fun than expected with such a small group. Tople pozdrave!
ANITA VOVK 218.229.3202 gospanita@yahoo.com
BRANCH 39 - Biwabik, Minnesota
A beautiful and full day was enjoyed by thirteen delegates from Branch 39, Biwabik, at the MN Regional Convention held in Duluth in September. It was fun to meet and greet members that we only see once a year on Zveze Day. Duluth Branch 33 did a great job hosting this event.
Our officers are busy getting updated addresses and e-mail addresses for Carol, who will be sending out invoices after the first of the year. Updated e-mail addresses will be especially important since invoices will be sent by e-mail where applicable. A great way to save some money on postage.
We will have our Christmas party at the Rustic Rock in Eveleth on January 10,2010. If you plan to attend, please call Vida Lanari at 218.741.1970 or Rosemary at 218.865.6600 for details and reservations. Any member of SWUA and/or guests are invited. We always have a grand time.
Our branch report is brief this month, but we just want to wish all our SWUA members SREČNO NOVO LETO for all of 2010. I’m sure you all had a wonderful Christmas holiday with family and friends. Bog z Vani Z Ljubezni sve ROSEMARY (SERTICH) RIBICH rribich@northlc.com
BRANCH 40 - Lorain, Ohio
“Another Church Gone and Standing Ovation at Church’s Closing” were the front-page headlines carried by our local newspapers after the final mass at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Slovenian Catholic Church on October 4,2009. It was a solemn and beautiful ceremony attended by more than 250. Father Paul Krajnik received not one, but two standing ovations thanking him for his 34 years of serving the parish. The voices of the choir filled the church as they sang our beautiful Slovenian Christmas and Easter hymns for the last time, prior to the start of mass.
A memorial booklet was given to all who attended. It contains pictures of the main and side altars, all the beautiful stained glass windows and the many artifacts that will remain in memory always. Also in the booklet are the names of the 11 priests who faithfully ministered to our people for the last 104 years. May God continue to bless them and bless all the people, living and dead, who for all those years lovingly cared for Sts. Cyril and Methodius Slovenian Catholic Church.
We have lost yet another member. Helen Sekular died on November 5,h at age 87 following a brief illness. She was a member of Sts. Cyril and
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Ladies of Branch 40 enjoying a recent luncheon. Pictured: Shirley Toman, Stephanie Polutnik, Aggie Serazin our President, Agatha Donges, Babe Grayson our Secretary, Martina Woefl our Member of the Year, Frances Sirse and her grandson Justin and Francine Pavlovčič.
Methodius Church and of its Ladies Guild. She was also an active member of the now gone Slovenian Club, where she was a waitress for 25 years serving their famous fish fries. Helen always wore a smile and had a kind and happy personality. Her daughter Linda Sekular and nieces and nephews survive her. To them we extend our deepest sympathy. Stephanie Polutnik led prayers for Helen at the funeral home. Rest in Peace, dear friend.
STEPHANIE POLUTNIK
BRANCH 43 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The Wisconsin State Convention hosted by our branch was a success and thanks to all the people who helped. President, Yvonne Khaldy conducted the meeting. Denise Bartlett gave a report on the National Convention and concerns of SWUA. We attended mass celebrated by Father Quartana and Slovenian hymns sung by the Uspeh Chorus. Special thanks to Helen Frohna for compiling the beautiful mass. Many thanks to the Upseh Slovenian Chorus for providing the music for the mass and for the entertainment during the program. Next year it will be in conjunction with the 100th Anniversary celebration of St. Cyril and Methodius Parish.
2010 Elections: Jan Gehm - President, Betty Ann Kolesari - Vice President, Mary Bregant - Recording Secretary, Tillie Skusek - Corresponding Secretary, Helen Frohna -
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Treasurer, Karen Goodmann - Sgt. of Arms, and Auditors, Toni Needham and Tom Gehm. Many thanks to out going president, Terri Majcher.
We are busy planning the National Convention in 2011, Your help, ideas, and suggestions are welcome, please attend a meeting on the 4th Wednesday in February at noon at the West Allis Library located on National Avenue, and South 75th Street.
March 28, is Palm Sunday, you are invited to attend the 8 a.m. Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church and then brunch at Meyers Restaurant. Please wear your Narodna Nosas. The Mass will be offered for all living and deceased members of our branch. Join us to make butare on Saturday, March 27, at Triglav Park.
Ray, Mary Cay Freiberg their daughter Therese, and Tom and Jan Gehm spent a couple of weeks in Croatia and Slovenia and came back with wonderful memories.
Congratulations to Rose Zuponcic who celebrated her 90lh birthday and was the guest of honor at a celebration hosted by her children. Best Wishes and God’s Blessings, Rosie.
Deepest condolences are extended to the family of John Skusek who died unexpectedly after an accident at his home. John was a member of our branch and was a willing and able supporter of SWUA. Rest in peace, John.
MARY BREGANT
BRANCH 47 - Maple Heights, Ohio
Our first Meeting for 2010 will be March 14,2010 at the Maple Hts Library at 1:00 p.m. Our Member of the Year will be in May. Further details to follow. Hope to see everyone at our March Meeting. Contacts: Elsie Spellacy 1.330.699.0031 or Olga Dorchak 1.330.468.7989. KATHERINE WALLACE webblekatt@hotmail.com.
BRANCH 50 - Euclid, Ohio
Rose Mary Toth did a wonderful job planning the Christmas Party. We had a tremendous showing of more than thirty members and guests.
Our Ohio convention was hosted by Branch 47 at St. Lawrence Church, which was built in 1901 and is scheduled to close in 2010. A delicious Slovenian dinner followed in the Newburgh Slovenian Home. Many thanks to our sister branch for such a grand day!
We are very saddened that our active member Dorothy Ann Winter, age 62, passed away. We will miss Dorothy very much; she was a lively and friendly personality.
The story on creches was enjoyable, especially Jana Hlade’s collection which will be preserved for her grandchildren. Like Jana, I also bought our first nativity scene when I got married (in 1953) at Sterling Lindner
Davis, Cleveland’s then most elegant department store that was famous for a tall Christmas tree. One of our favorite nativity sets, which I treasure fondly, was given to me by popular Kompas travel director Brane Vidmar on a visit to the U.S.
Speaking of treasured cultural traditions, 1 read an article by Doris Sadar recently about splash cloths, embroidered linen that was hung on the kitchen wall behind the stove. I received a splash cloth from Mildred Ringenbach of our Cleveland Slovenian American Radio Club. The cloth [see accompanying photo] reads, “Se enkrat ljubit mi day -
middle of the night in a Nevada desert with their dad, my son Rick [see accompanying photo]. The race took place in the full moon near the site of the fabled “Area 51” where extraterrestrials are rumored to be held captive. The Tomsick boys stay active in water sports at Boston College and St Ignatius High School.
ANNE TOMSICK 216.531.2745 cjaynow@yahoo.com
Pokier cveti cvetje in maj,” and portrays a young romantic couple. Another popular inscription from such a cloth I recall translates that “the sun never shines so brightly as the eyes of my Mother.”
Speaking of Doris, we’d like to once again congratulate her granddaughter, Branch 50 member Kara Maruszak [see accompanying photo] on being crowned Miss SNPJ 2009. Kara is an outstanding youth who devotes untold hours in volunteering, is very active at Wickliffe High School, and is a certified rescue lifeguard, black belt in Tae Kwon Do, and takes button box lessons from former Miss SNPJ Kathy Hlad. We’re very proud of our Kara!
My own grandsons, Zach and Jonah Tomsick recently ran a marathon in the
BRANCH 54 - Warren, Ohio
Our group had our annual Christmas luncheon and it was well attended. We had a tasty lunch at Cafe 422 and our hostesses were Fran Sainato, who brought lovely favors and delicious desserts made by Elsie Shine and Anne
Tomazin. We don’t meet too often and it was nice to chat and laugh with our few faithful members.
My husband and I traveled to California and what a memorable trip! From L.A., Long Beach, Napa Valley and ending up in San Francisco. We even rode the cable cars. Napa Valley reminded us of Slovenia, with the mountains and vineyards and good wine!
We are an inactive group, but we all donated cash for a basket for the Ohio Convention. Louise
and I attended Mass at St. Lawrence and it was truly inspiring with the Slovenian music, but the parishioners are very sad, it will close in June 2010. Our meeting was short, no input on obtaining more members or keeping the ones that we have. That should have been the main topic of discussion!
Our sympathy to Anka and Mike Krakora of Branch 55. Mike lost his mom. Our sympathy and prayers to them and their loved ones.
Be prayerful during the Lenten season and I trust that you will all have a blessed and holy Easter.
JOANNE PONIKVAR
BRANCH 55 - Girard, Ohio
Happy New Year from Girard, OH! It’s hard to imagine that it is already 2010 as it seems like only a short time ago we were welcoming the new millennium 2000.1 hope the holiday season was enjoyable and memorable for all. Spending time with my family and friends was certainly the highlight of my Christmas break!
In Branch news, the 2009 Holiday party was a success. Members of Branch 55 and AMLA Lodge 42 shared in a wonderful evening of fellowship, delicious food and holiday festivities, including singing in both English and Slovenian. Pictures from the evening will follow in a future issue.
In other Branch news, monthly meetings have begun. It would be great to see more members attend these meetings and participate in Branch events. For questions or additional information, please contact Maria Selak or Anka Krakora. That’s all the news for now. I leave you with a quote about the winter season: “ Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home. ” ~ Edith Sitwell
MONICA SELAK
BRANCH 93 - New York City, New York
Ongoing events/resources that may be of interest to branch members or those visiting NYC: Slovenian Cultural Hour program/meal, third Sunday of the month, 11:00 a.m. at St. Cyril’s, 62 St. Marks Place, between 1st and 2nd Avenues in the East Village/NYC call 212.674.3442 to confirm; “Slovenian Magazine”, a 25 minute program shown in English on channel 25 (WNYE) the first and third Sunday of each month at 3:30 p.m. Website: www.rtvslo.si/slovenianmagazine; Consulate General of Slovenia New York newsletter, to subscribe e-mail clara.drew@gov.si or call 212.370.3006, website: www.newyork.consulate.si;www.slavsofnewyork.com (a blog about Slavic goings-on throughout the five boroughs of New York City, also on facebook).
Slovenian Language Lessons are now offered in NYC! Contact Marta Stemberger for more information: 718.919.0727, marta@eARINNA.com, web: www.eARINNA.com (Marta is a member of Branch 93.)
Please join our yahoo group for information on upcoming events/activities (if you are not on e-mail, please call the Branch 93 contact). The branch membership list is available upon request. If you have an idea for an event or can lead an event, please get in touch with the branch contact. Branch 93 contact: Lynn Zalokar, 201.947.6336, lzalokar@yahoo.com; website: www.swuanyc.org; yahoo group, to subscribe e-mail: SWUABranch93NYC-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; SWUA Branch 93 NYC facebook page: www.facebook.com (type in “SWUA”).
BRANCH 99 - Lemont, Illinois
Happy New Year! Can’t believe 2009 is already gone! Our branch did many things last year, and have plans for another great year. A quick re-cap of last year includes apple strudel, cheese strudel and flancati culinary classes
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and Member of the Year Martha Pecharich. We also held our annual BUNCO fundraiser. While participation was lower at BUNCO than previous years, we are hoping that as the economy strengthens, so will our events. In November, our Branch was honored to host the IL-IN Regional Convention. It was great to see so many familiar faces, and learn new ideas from other branches. Thank you to everyone for making the convention such a success!
In December we held our annual Cookie sale. Thank you to Paula Mavec, Mary Mavec and all our wonderful bakers! We also helped Branch 110 in Lake County, Illinois collect items for troops. They are hoping to adopt Slovenian American soldiers, so contact us if you know of any.
All our best to two young branch members - Lauren Burich, age 15, and her sister, Danielle Burich, age 10. These girls now live in Florida so they can continually train playing tennis. Both became interested in
Danielle Burich
tennis watching their mother, Suzanne Burich, play the game, and have high hopes of playing professionally. You go girls!
Our branch is working hard to create an email list.
Email has become our first choice in communicating because it is fast and inexpensive. Even if you don’t have a computer, you can create a free email address and access it on a friend’s computer or at your local library. You can also list a friend or relative’s email and ask them to keep you informed. Please contact secretary Barb Block at 630.379.6442 or barbandlarryblock@att.net.
Wishing you a wonderful and prosperous New Year!
JANA HLADE jmhlade@hotmail.com 815.439.1905
BRANCH 100 - of Southern California
Many members of the SWUA attended a recent concert by the Slowind Quintet, of the Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra, here in Laguna Niguel. It was a truly enjoyable evening at St. Timothy’s Church. The concert was followed by a reception where traditional Slovenian pastries were served. In attendance were not only members of the Slovenian community, but also students from several high schools, local colleges and many members of the church and the surrounding communities. Our family was able to spend several enjoyable days with the musicians. It is always fun to entertain groups such as this, especially after they have entertained us with their beautiful music!
As this year comes to a close, we wish each and every one of you a “Joyous New Year 2010!”
JEAN KOCI
BRANCH 102 - Willard, Wisconsin
Greetings from Willard! Thank you to all Branch members for helping to keep Slovenian spirit alive in Willard in 2009. Special thanks to President, Rose Pakiz and her husband Frank for all that they do in support of Willard Slovenians.
Thanks are also sent to SWUA members in Milwaukee for a kind welcome and a wonderful Wisconsin State Convention last September. It was a very enjoyable day spent soaking up our shared heritage.
The Slovenian Choir in Willard is made up of many SWUA members. We are so fortunate that this group continues to sing Slovenian hymns and folk songs at special events and occasionally at mass. The Choir got together at Dale’s North Mound on November 10th, enjoying lunch and a chance to catch up on area news.
The branch Christmas party was held at the home of Sue Pakiz on December 5th. Sue is a gracious hostess and her home is always decorated beautifully for the holiday season. We had a delicious potluck lunch, exchanged small gifts and played holiday themed games. We discussed our branch events for the coming year. All branch members are strongly encouraged to contact Rose and get involved in Branch 102 in some way. We all appreciate the Zarja, but the future of our branch depends on everyone being active in some way. Please make 2010 the year you become more actively involved.
Our branch is delighted to have past state president, Josephine Janezic keep in touch with us. Josephine’s dedicated work for SWUA reaches Willard and motivates us to keep moving forward. We are grateful for all our members and especially thankful for all our new members. We look forward to 2010, and new success for Branch 102.
KAREN SPIRES kleespires@comcast.net
BRANCH 108 - OIney Maryland
Our 6th Anniversary Celebration happened to fall on St. Martin’s Day. We had a toast in honor of our branch with Rubida Tilio Slovenian wine from the Vipavska region. Thanks to all our wonderful contributions of refreshments for this gathering. Our meeting topics resulted in a productive discussion, followed by election of officers. Guest speaker, Marjeta Cedilnik gave an interesting presentation, with video clips of her family trip to Slovenia in May, 2009. The full screen of picturesque sights and sounds of church bells included Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Predjamski grad and Šmarna gora. It was an enjoyable video tour for us all with unique, behind the scenes views and tour guide Marjeta providing the details.
Congratulations to our 2009 raffle prizewinners; Marie Robinson, a book of travel to Slovenia donated by Irene Odorizzi and to Marjeta Cedilnik, a comfort massage pillow donated by Erika Kokal.
At our
John Klansek, faithful member, branch treasurer and proud to be a WWII Veteran
October meeting Fr.
Rožič shared his experiences of his trip to Slovenia and Lebanon this past summer. He provided touching stories and photos from his trip, and also introduced his dissertation topic about how to reconcile with people both on a political and social level. His project will entail attempting dialogue
Junior members Zala Weyker and Juliana Fitzsimmons happily assisting at the Anniversary Celebration
Peter among countries with fundamental disagreements, as well as individuals who were deeply hurt under various circumstances, and the healing process associated with reconciliation.
SCOLA
WWW.SCOLA.ORG
Helping people of the world learn more about one another
Please join us at our first luncheon meeting in 2010 for our installation of officers to take place at the Hunan in Olney on January 10th at 1:00 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Slovenian visitor Blaža Cedilnik. Srečno novo leto!
BRANCH 109 - Twin Cities of Minnesota
After a promising look of fall colors in Minnesota two wet snowstorms dulled those vibrant maples, tempered the wild sumac and highlighted the golden tamaracks that are mixed amongst the evergreens. The snow has signaled the Christmas season.
Yet we Slovenians in Branch 109 are relishing in the memories, which were made in Slovenia this past summer and fall. Our three fall meetings were highlighted by three members’ trips to “Stari Krj” A new member, Lois Finney, treated us to homemade bureks (a street food delicacy) along with her many pictures of Slovenia which she thought was the best part of her European trip. Bob Grahek, along with family and friends, shared their slide show and commented on the genuine hospitality of the Slovenian people. This was Bob’s first trip and yes, Bob that hospitality is infectious. John Zakelj, one of our native Slovenians, returned to his family’s “dom” in the town of Ziri and recounted some of the changes he noticed. It was interesting to see and hear John’s native perspective.
As background for our members, A1 Siftar highlighted each members’ travelogue by giving geography facts from Slovenia’s traditional regions of Gorenjska, Dolenjska and Bela Krajina. Al had prepared a number of poster boards for these regions and the members were able to see the benefits of his research. In addition, Norm Setnicker handed out copies of an article on Bela Krajina, which was written in the spring edition of the Zarja.
Each November we try to combine our normal activities with an activity dealing with St. Martin’s Day (November 11) honoring the new wine. Janette and Gary Hahn talked about the wine industry in Minnesota and how they grow and culture the grapes for sale to the Morgan Creek winery in New Ulm, Minnesota. Through a lottery, five members of the Twin Cities Slovenians won a bottle of wine made from the grapes of the Hahn family. Janette is a native of Ely, Minnesota.
Mary Ann Vranesich Palmer added a little levity to our “beginning” Slovenian language lesson by singing some traditional Slovenian songs which we grew up with but never really knew what they were about - i.e. “Jaz Pa Ti”. We are trying to relive the legacy!
Jeff Martinka, our new Festival of Nations chairperson, has already hosted two planning sessions for the upcoming Festival in May. The theme is “FOLKLORE.” After discussing some of the many Slovenian folklore possibilities, four were chosen by the group to receive major emphasis in 2010 booth: the Zlatorog (golden homed mountain goat), Martin Krpan (sort of a Slovene Paul Bunyan character),
Kurenti (said to chase away winter and welcome spring) and the Ljubljana dragon/zmaj (central to the myth of Jason and Argonauts making their way thru Slovenia to Adriatic).
December is traditionally the month where we try to actively involve children and grandchildren in a theme related activity, which touches on the Slovenian language or custom. Mary Percic Bernard has been our “teacher.” Mary and her husband Jim recently returned from an anniversary trip to Slovenia where she has relatives in the Bled and Kranj areas. More details about our December-Christmas children’s program in the next issue of the Zarja. “Kako hitro tece cas!” How quickly time goes by!
NORM SETNICKER
Calendar of Events
NOVEMBER 2009 - MARCH 2010
Performing Revolution in Central and Eastern Europe explores the contributions of the performing arts to the 1989 revolutions and resulting fall of Communism in Central and Eastern Europe. Presented by The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts in association with leading cultural organizations and academic institutions, the five-month festival features more than 25 events, including theater, music and dance performances, exhibitions, film screenings, readings and symposia. http://www.performingrevolution.org/
JANUARY 10, 2010
Branch 39 of Biwabik, Minnesota will host their Christmas Party to be held at Rustic Rock in Eveleth. Call Vida at 218.741.1970 or Rosemary at 218.865.6600.
MARCH 28, 2010
Branch 43 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin to host mass followed by brunch at Meyers Restaurant. Please wear your Narodna Noša.
MARCH 27, 2010
Branch 43 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin will be making Butare at Triglav Park.
JUNE 16-19, 2011
Mark your calendars for the National Convention to be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Branch 99 Hosts Illinois-Indiana Regional Convention
In November, Branch 99 from Lemont, Illinois hosted the Illinois-Indiana Regional Convention at the Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont. The day began with breakfast and fellowship followed by Mass at St. Mary’s Slovenian Mission Church on the grounds. The Convention continued with Regional President, Joseph Skala, leading the meeting. We heard from all the branches present as well as Denise P. Bartlett, National Treasurer, and the guest speaker, Dr. John Vidmar. The luncheon was catered by Lillian Cepon, and members were entertained by button box and piano music by Marty Mavec. So many great ideas were shared, and we thank everyone for making this day possible! - Jana Hlade
Corrine Leskovar, Fran Schultz, Paula Mavec
Members from Illinois and Indiana branches
A True Success and a Great Day Had by All!
Ohio Regional Convention October 4, 2009, St. Lawrence Church
Mass was presented by Reverend Dominic Mondzelowski. After mass a traditional Slovenian Dinner was prepared and served. It was delicious. Branch 47 (Kathy Ferrante and Olga Dorchak) hosted this wonderful event and they really did a nice job. There were several raffle baskets which were all donated by the Ohio Branches. The meeting was brought to order by Olga Dorchak. Rosemary Toth led us all in the pledge of allegiance and the Blessing. A letter from Mary Turvey in regards to the scholarship fund was shared with all.
Right members from Ohio branches
Below left to right: Olga Dorchak, Cookie Maxin, Rosemary Toth
Slovenian Heritage Weekend in Blairstown, NJ - Year Two
By Annette Kirk and Lynn Zalokar
“It’s a little country with a lot of heart, hence the slogan ‘It’s in every SLOVEnian’. You will learn more about (or add to your knowledge of) Slovenia during our weekend. It’s also a holiday, St. Martin’s Day is November 11"', around the time grape juice ferments enough to become wine. We will celebrate with a Slovenian meal and, of course, wine! We look forward to greeting you with a warm dobrodošli (welcome) and na zdravje (cheers) at the wine tasting!”
These words gave attendees an idea of what to expect...and the second annual Slovenian Heritage Weekend (November 6-8 at the AMC* Mohican Outdoor Center in Blairstown, NJ) was a rousing success. Peaking fall foliage and bright sunshine greeted us each morning. Leaves crunchy with early morning frost covered the path to the breakfast room, where homemade biscuits, pancakes and oatmeal awaited.
We offered two guided hikes with an AMC hike leader. Our “Mount Triglav at Mohican” hike on Saturday was up to a ridge via the Rattlesnake Swamp Trail. Sunday we hiked through Van Campens Glen which is aptly described as “cascading waters and lush hemlock forest immediately envelop the visitor in a cocoon of sound and visual beauty.”
Branch 93-NYC members contributed the other activities. Ria (Polajner) Whitmire demonstrated sausage-making from scratch, from grinding the meat to stuffing to cooking. Annette Kirk led us in international folk-dancing, including three Slovenian dances. The Slovenian dances included “Zibensrit” (seven-step dance as ziben means seven); “Pojster (j is pronounced as y) Tanc” or “Povster Tanc” (pillow dance - a dance done at weddings by unmarried guests) and “Stari Sotis” (a dance prevalent across Slovenia in many variations). We learned several international dances: a contra dance from 1860 called “Gallopede”
(galloping was part of the dance), a square dance, two Israeli
dances and a simple but fun German dance called “Lott ist Todt” (Lott is dead) - this is a dance that quickly goes from sad to happy and brings the group together into a circle dance. Annette noted about circle dances: “Holding hands and dancing in a circle establishes trust, bonding and camaraderie, a safe feeling.” (This is helpful in situations when people don’t know each other and for those not comfortable with partner dancing.)
We viewed a folk-dance video that was custom-made at the request of Ria, who had just returned from a visit to her family in Slovenia. Ria’s brother, a dancer himself, arranged for a couple to demonstrate several Slovenian dances and had them professionally filmed while Ria observed in the dance studio. Tomaz Simetinger, the male dancer in the video, is an ethnographer of dance in Slovenia. We are fortunate to have him on film!
Ria also brought from Slovenia a number of movies and music recordings. Entertainment was always handy for anyone who wanted to hang out in our cabin’s cozy living room, with its working fireplace and dozens of books about Slovenia, brought in by Branch 93 members and guests. The room was colorfully decorated with red and blue weavings, Slovenia travel posters and red carnations.
One member remarked that we could have called this “The Slovenian Food Weekend”, as the long table outside the kitchen was always covered with cakes, fruits, snacks, candy and Slovenian wine. The wine was generously donated by Emil Gaspari of TriWines, www.slovenianpremiumwines.com. (Mr. Gaspari also contributed Slovenian pumpkin oil, which we used to dress our salads and string beans.) Ida Mary Smith, a guest from Frederick, Maryland brought Laško pivo (beer, imported from Slovenia)! Our other guests contributed to the Friday evening potluck meal. The main course was jota (a bean, barley and sauerkraut “stewlike” soup) made by Ria and served with bread
and salad. Most of the meals were prepared by Ria, with much assistance from our Branch President Lynn Zalokar. These two members organized the weekend and worked nonstop throughout. Mia Branc of Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania (who cooks for St. Cyril’s Slovenian Church in Manhattan in addition to NYC Consulate functions),
joined us on Saturday to prepare the evening meal of sausage, potatoes, kasha and salad. Mia also brought potica and gibanica she had made for dessert.
We spread our Slovenian cheer by sharing our happy hours on Friday and Saturday with another weekend group learning “map and compass” skills. This means six more people became a whole lot more familiar with Slovenia!
Everyone pitched in to help with the clean-up chores. By Sunday afternoon, it had become like a family gathering. It was hard to say goodbye but we will meet again throughout the coming year, now that we know what wonderful “relatives” we have in the SWUA.
Will there be a third annual Slovenian Heritage Weekend in 2010? The Mohican Outdoor Center informed us that they are holding November 5-7 for us based on the positive feedback from attendee evaluations!
*Appalachian Mountain Club, www.outdoors.org
Ria’s Jota Recipe Jota (pronounced yota) Bean, Pork, Barley and Sauerkraut S
* *
This is a soup from the Primorska region of
Slovenia. It is sometimes made
yith
out
irley.
Ingredients
6 ounces of thickly sliced smoked bacon or salt pork, coarsely chopped 1 large onion, coarsely chopped Vt cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped 3 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped l'A teaspoon dried sage leaves 3 tablespoons of olive oil Vi pound of cannellini beans (some use kidney beans), washed and soaked overnight 1 Vi quart of beef broth 1 Vi quart of water '/2 pound barley
V/i cups potato, chopped into V* inch cubes Vi pound sauerkraut with its juice 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt Vi teaspoon pepper
Combine and finely chop bacon, onion, parsley, garlic and sage until the mixture is ' almost a paste, you can do this in a processor. In a large pot saute the finely chopped mixture in olive oil over medium heat until it begins to 1 Drain the beans and add them. Add the broth and barley. Cover | over high heat. Add the potato, cover partially and lower the heat to Add the sauerkraut and stir it into the soup. Taste and season with salt <
Serve hot. This soup is a great meal with a salad ant
Jenka’s Taste of Slovenia
Winter Evenings
The end of the New Year’s holidays means the beginning of hard work. The long winter evenings are when the field tools are repaired, cleaned and sharpened and stored until the Spring thaw. A typical meal is a bowl of soup or porridge and one of the meats that have been prepared before the end of the year.
This is also the time when many of the traditional craft are made. Sitting around the pec to stay warm, family members and friends are busy creating their artwork. The variety of old Slovenian folk arts are vast. This issue presents Marija’s favorite winter pastime, creating picturesque art pieces from dried flowers.
Marija carefully collects the showiest flowers, leaves and stems at their peak and presses them in newspaper and books to await those long cold winter evenings. Our Editor, Debbie Pohar was fortunate to be able to work with Marija and create her own masterpiece. We know why Marija loves to create these beautiful pieces of art. It allows her to relax and remember about the beautiful gardens of last year and dream of the ones to come. - Jenka
Barley Soup (Ričet Or Kaša)
This is a traditional barley soup made with pork. Several parts of the pig may be used to flavor the soups from the pig’s feet or ham hocks as well as smoked ham. This soup is usually served with the sliced meat on the side.
2 cup barley
2	carrots, sliced
6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1 teaspoons black pepper corns 1 onion, burned (see directions below)
/2 cup or small bunch of fresh parsley 1 whole tomato
1 pound smoked pork rib or another piece of smoked pork 1 cup fresh or frozen white beans (navy or cannelloni)
In a large pot cover the barley with water and bring to a boil. Turn the heat off and let the barley soak for 3 hours.
Drain the barley and cover with fresh water. Over med-high heat bring the barley to a second boil. While this is heating, peel the onion and place it whole over a med-high burner to char the outside. Once blackened on each side place the whole onion into the pot.
Take the whole tomato and score it by cutting and X into the top of it. Add it whole to the stock pot. Add the sliced carrots, chopped garlic, bunch of fresh parsley and the piece of pork. After 30 minutes add the beans. Continue to simmer until the beans and barley are completely cooked. Approximately 1 hour.
Sausage (Pečenice)
Homemade sausages remain a big part of Slovenian and Slovenian-American cuisine. In the days before refrigeration, the fresh sausages were smoked and stored completely covered in lard, to preserve them from exposure to air.
7-8 fresh lean pork sausage links (Kielbasa)
'/2 cup milk V2 cup flour
(enough milk and flour to coat all of the sausages)
3	tablespoons lard Water
Dip the sausage in the milk and then dredge in the flour. Fry the sausage in the lard until browned and cooked through.
Add about lA cup water to the skillet once the sausages have begun to brown to prevent them from sticking and to ensure that they do not dry out.
Place a lid over the skillet, reduce the heat and continue to frying them so that they are browned on all sides and completely cooked through.
For a healthier version substitute a lighter oil for the lard.
Dober tek!
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