$ 3.99 U.S./$ 4.99 International hZ(r Official Publication Slovenian Women’s Union of America Uradno Glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze V Ameriki I Including Members of the Year Volume 78 Issue 3 May - June, 2006 'm 7r;.- i /*» 4, rl i*' ^ P"v r^-v. w »m/J 't .1 jasr- Mfc.- Celebrate Independence A Sovereign and Independent Slovenia - By Corinne Leskovar The Independent State of Slovenia - By SINFO Magazine Independence Day - By guest writer Lea Flis Juliana Fitzsimmons, Branch 108 guest junior writer CONTENTS IN EACH ISSUE 1 From the Editor National President’s Message 3 National Secretary News News from SWUA.org SWUA Scholarship Program FEATURE STORIES THE COVER Photo by D. Mladenovič Bohinj guests wearing traditional clothing. 11 Slovenian Tourist Board www.slovenia.info 11 13 14 16 18 19 20 26 28 36 38 39 40 IT’S IN EVERY SLOVENIAN Men in a SWUA World Kid Talk Kids in the News Discovering your Slovenian Roots To America The Immigrant Experience SPECIAL LETTER Letter from the Consul General of Slovenia HERITAGE NEWS Slovenian Gorečnost Members of the Year National Convention News Branch Reports Feature Branch 93 NYC Wilderness Travel - Slovenia Slovenian Cardinal CULINARY Entertaining ... With a touch of Slovenia by Jenka Editor’s Note: We enjoyed the many comments we received on the last issue which incorporated a few different ideas including beautiful colorful covers. Thank you all. We hope to continue pleasing our membership in any way financially possible. Zarja - The Dawn EDITOR: Debbie Pohar DIRECTOR OF DESIGN: Bonnie Pohar Prokup CONSULTING EDITOR: Corinne Leskovar EDITORIAL OFFICE: 1696 Illinois St., LaSalle, IL 61301 TELEPHONE: 815.220.0636 FAX 815.224.1074 PUBLISHER: Slovenian Women’s Union of America TELEPHONE: 815.727.1926 Vol. 78, No.3, May/June 2006 Published bimonthly Periodicals Postage paid at 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-relatcd 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 pohar4feaol.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 first day of the month preceding the issue. For example, articles for the July-August issue must be received by June 1". Thank you. From the Editor Celebrate Freedom Independence Day is an occasion to reflect and commemorate our freedom. We celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, parades and picnics with family and friends just as those living in Slovenia celebrate June 25th, the day they gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Patriotism is brought out in full force by the whole country as we remember what our countries went through in the beginning to get the independence and freedom that we enjoy today. For those of us living in the United States it is only through history books, tradition and stories passed down that we are aware of the struggle that was endured by the forefathers of our country to allow us the freedom that we possess, but for those living in Slovenia it is so ever fresh in their memory. So, on June 25th let’s keep in mind the recent hardship that Slovenia has suffered and celebrate their perseverance and success in their struggle to own and keep their freedom. - Debbie Pohar, Editor f T) Letters to the Editor Congratulations to Corinne for the marvelous talents she used as the editor of the Zarja and also being the backbone of the SWUA organization. Shall we call it the Corinne Era? Best wishes to the new editor team Debbie Pohar, Bonnie Prokup and Corinne Leskovar who have the courage to change the Zarja format in color and also print additional varieties of topics. It may create attention with the younger audience. Color has always been important to me. During my eye problems the sight and color was taken away from me temporarily several times. Good luck to Debbie, Bonnie and Corinne for original ideas for the Zarja and all their hard work. Angela Kuhar Nico - Branch 89 1 just had to let you know how impressed I was with the March/April issue. The color pictures on the covers, food section, author articles, Discovering Your Roots (which I am researching) and especially the Slovenian Easter traditions (which are almost to the letter as 1 remember from my childhood). Marie Hoppa - Branch 102 Editor’s Note: Marie has also requested directions on ^ -how to make a butara. If anyone has directions, please ^ se iem to the editor’s office and I will be sure that tjuaMawipets a copy. , —w-------------------------------------------- The last ZARJA was one of the best ever. We like the heavier front cover, bold colors and the substantial content of articles of interest to women, men and youth. The time and effort the editorial team has put in to improve the quality of our ZARJA certainly shows. Bernadette K. Fitzsimmons President - Branch 108 Kudos to the 2006 “ZARJA TEAM”, Debbie, Bonnie and of course, Corinne. The ZARJA magazine has been, for all these years, the “Tie That Binds” all of the members of SWUA across the country. It has informed, enlightened and educated us all in matters of interest pertaining to everything from the colloquial activities of our local branches, to the progressive spirit of our Slovenian ancestors, to the past - 1991 cultural and political events of Modem Slovenia; and I am confident our “official publication” will become more and more a “must read” magazine. In my thirty-plus years of active membership, having held offices on the local, regional and national level, I have witnessed some extreme (albeit necessary) changes in our organization. We have been led by an elected National Board and governed by the will of the majority; always following the precepts of our founder. Our SWUA has been dynamic, progressive and sometimes controversial, but never “dull”. Jean Korsman - Branch 39 and former National President I am enrolling three of my daughters in Branch 50. I pass the Zarja magazine to them and they enjoy it very much. They want to keep their Slovenian Heritage alive. Helen Sturm - Branch 50 God Bless all of you at the home office. An excellent job all of you are doing on the Zarja staff. I enjoy the Zarja, especially the recipes! Ann - Ohio I read the Zarja and enjoy everything that is printed. Keep up the good work. Martha - Ohio At our March meeting the room was buzzing with praises and comments on the last Zarja. It was wonderful and you are to be commended on work well done. We can see all the time and effort put in to it. We all are looking forward to the upcoming issue. Hvala lepa! Branch 89 Oglesby, Illinois The recent restrictions applied to the articles sent to Zaija by reporters for each branch, make the articles less interesting. Anonymous National President’s Message Time to Plan to Celebrate Calling All Members - Let’s all cheer for the 15th Anniversary of the independence of Slovenia on June 25, 2006. I am sure 1 speak for all of us when I say how proud we are to be associated with such a wonderful country. This is indeed a time to celebrate. The next celebration dear to our hearts is the Slovenian Women’s Union of America’s 80th Anniversary coming up on December 19,2006.1 encourage each branch to plan a unique event to commemorate this very special date. Start planning now to attend the 80th Anniversary celebration at the National Convention on Saturday, June 23,2007 at Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, Illinois. This is shaping up to be an extravagant event. You will not want to miss this festivity. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the special writers from Slovenia who are making our beloved Zarja so special and unique. Your contributions are helping to give our organization a strong and real connection to our homeland. We love your stories, poems, and other contributions. Happy Mother’s Day is extended to all of our moms and grandmothers as well as Happy Father’s Day to our dads and granddads. May you all enjoy these special days creating long-lasting memories with your family and loved ones. Kathleen Ferrante, National President 178 Gaylord Drive Munroe Falls, OH 44262 330.688.4949 Kathleen Ferrante National President Welcome to our new members! 1-Barbuch, Brian 20-Kehring, Sandra 99-Martincic, Mara 108-Antolin, Nikolas 1-Barbuch, Matthew 20-Rems, John 99-Petek, Angela 108-Antolin, Viktor 1-Barbuch, Samuel 20-Ursitti, Kathleen 99-Wolfe, Fran 108-Balazic, Jessica 1-Fields, Pat M 23-Theno, Amanda K lOO-Oswald, Shirley 108-Daum, Claire Maria 1-Fields, Thomas A 23-Theno, Morgan 101-Gerome, Isabella Rose 108-Daum, Mary H 1-Grasse, Timothy J 26-Bums, Dannielle K 102-Plautz, Ellen 108-Litvinas, Carol 1-Hoeppner, Patricia M 28-Burich, Bradley J 103-Flaynik, Anthony J 108-Maxel, Erika 1-Schellinger, Mary Ann 33-Hellgren-Garson, Paige 103-Valdez, Janja 108-Smith, Judith J 1 -Schroeder, Peter G 33-Menart, Abbygail 1-Udovich, Joseph J Jr. 33-Turchi, Patricia 1-Zaletel, William A 43-Anderson, Sienna Rose 1-Zaletel, Wilma C 43-Bartels, Shawn C Goal: 800 New Members 2-Blue, Karen 43-Dovnik, Karl Jr By June 2007 2-Corgait, Dominic 43-Gehm, Thomas 2-Corgiat, Gianna 43-Johnson, Lauren E 2-Corgait, Nicholas 43-Starich, William 2-Swicionis, Brittney 47-Ferrante, Louis R 2-Swicionis, Rachel A 47-Honeck, Beth 2-Urbanski, Ellie L 47-Moviel, Joyce Ann 2-Urbanski, Michael 50-Deitrick, Sally L 3-Perko, Joseph J 50-Maxwell, Jacqueline M 2006 New Members: 101 5-Friesenhahn, Renae F 50-Schloss, Carole J / 20-Carter, Diane 93-Ravnik-List, Alenka ( ) 20-Francisco, Kay 99-Leskovec, Maria \ ' National Secretary News Have you ever considered creating a new branch of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America? What a wonderful idea! There are Slovenians all across the United States, just mention the word POTICA and you will see how many people know what you are talking about. Procedures for establishing a branch are easier than you think, just follow the steps below and before you know it you will be a part of the future of a successful organization serving its members for 80 years. • Contact the National Secretary for bylaws. • Pick a date for your first meeting and spread the word. • Have applications on hand that you can either download from the web site at www.swua.org or call Jonita at 815-727-1926 and she can mail some of our newest brochures. • Record the minutes and be sure to include the names of the people in attendance, hold an election of officers and submit the information to the National Secretary for acceptance of membership, chartering and acknowledgment and allocation of branch number. • Establish meeting dates, times and a location. Once your branch is established, each member will receive a copy of our national magazine ZARJA Bonnie Pohar Prokup The Dawn, and the on-line National Secretary Neighborhood Newsletter is free to all members as well. Throughout the years, SWUA has evolved into inviting men, women and always the younger generation, of all different backgrounds with a modicum of Slovenian heritage to join in the spirit of their Slovenian ethnicity, culture and traditions. The organization adds both a learning and social aspect to our lives. We would like you to share in this unique environment. Submit your questions to: Bonnie Pohar Prokup, National Secretary Slovenian Women’s Union of America 3119 Carrie Street, Peru, IL 61354 Home: 815-223-9596 E-Mail wprokup@aol.com Zarja Donations $100 Donations 20-Kambich, Anthony 103-Kotler, Marija 30-Martin, Deanna D ‘memory of grandmother Ana Dickovich and godmother Anne Dickovich 20-Ruggera, Frances 23-Stupnik, Frank ‘in memory of wife RoseAnne 50-Winter, Dorothy Ann $80 Donation 93-Burger, Mariana $60 Donations 20-Dvomik, Donald and Susan 20-Emery, Catherine & John 24-Ficek, Bob & Jean $50 Donations 30-Blatnik, Bernadette 20-Engers, Carolyn M Tomazic 5-Friesenhahn, Barbara 5-Friesenhahn, Renae 35-Hodnik, Anna L 20-Holden, Kathleen ‘memory of Bernice A Suski 34-Paulson, Katherine Anne & Kathleen Nemanich 24-Pohar, Barbara 40-Serazin, Agnes 20-Yankovic, Ida $40 Donation 2-Latronico, Sheri $30 Donations 105-Barkovich, Cheryl D 50-Beck, Mary 14-Collins, lllene 13-Cummings, Dorothy Govednik 102-Fraid, Elizabeth M 2-Gaber, Agnes 20-Hlade, John 20-James, Margaret A 20-Kaisher, Margaret 95-Kompare, Maria 105-Kosir, Mary Ann 23-Mam, Helen 33-Menart, Beverly Ann 23-Palmer, Mary Ann 13-Pecavar, Stanka 102-Plautz, George J 24-Pohar, Debbie 47-Rys, Margaret H 33-Shubitz, Genevieve M 47-Sostakwoski, Barbara 20-Stelow, Marie 30-Wyant, Sophia $20 Donations 34-Adkisson, Helen 99-Antich, Anne M 1-Appelbaum, Margaret 12-Arthur, Elizabeth 1 -Bartol, Gladys 2-Boychuk, Dolores M 20-Burk, Mary ‘memory of Louise Schoener 99-Burkland, Miriam 23-Champa, Helen L 108-Colaric, Anton 100-Demshar, Rosemary 23-Yadlosky, Jane ‘memory of 12-Dobersek, Stavia Janet & Ken Kistner and Josephine Pirtz 50-Zalar, Julia $25 Donations 20-Anzelc, Mary and John 14-Brann, Marceline 103-Cesnik, James M 52-Chisholm, Patricia 13-Goergen, Carol A 100-Gomick, Rosemary 20-Grisham, Linda 20-Gulas, Maria L 30-Horvath, Lillian D 50-Jagodnik, Irene 2-Koren, Dolores 2-Kosi, Barbara 13-Nanut, Anna F 105-Nosal, Katherine 109-Pajunen, Nancy J 103-Paulin, Anne E 25-Pivik, Marie 47-Dorchak, Olga A 32-Drobnick, Julie F 47-Duris, Deborah C 71-Fidel, William M 39-Gottardi, Paula M 25-Habjan, Vida A 20-Herbst, Jean A 25-Hlavaty, Mary Ann 33-Hoppenyan, Shirley May 108-Hrastar, Fran 93-Hmcic, Lisa 33-Jacobson, Carol Marie 43-Kais, Mary Kay 81 -Kapla, Josephine C 20-Keltz, Melanie 42-Kish, Nancy 100-Koci, Jean 43-Kouchich, Jennie 25-Kovacic-Bogovich, Dorothy 24-Kuzman, Barbara 23-Lammi, Patricia 28-Ryan, Mary Pat ‘memory of 20-Lange, Lorraine mother Stephanie Ryan 20-Laskowski, Paula Uremovic 102-Schwartz, Lynn E 42-Legan, Arlene 26-Warren, Joann 100-Lipic, Hilda 16-Livaich, Marie 14-Lorek, Carol 20-Lukancic-Valerugo, Helen 43-Majerle-Klug, Rita 85-Maloney, Mary Ann 50-Maxin, Catherine ‘memory of mom May F. Maxin Br 50 23-Medved, Albina 105-Megahan, Cheryl 103-Mejac, Mary Grill 20-Mitok, Nancy 40-Mramor, Stan * memory of Josephine Mramor who gave the gift of our language 20-Mueller, Maureen ‘memory of Caroline Culik McGuckin 40-Pavlovcic, Frances A 12-Piwoni, Frances 95-Poropat, Mildred 24-Prokup, Bill, Bonnie, Bekki & Barbi 13-Purtell-Terry, Caroline (Lampe) 30-Rak, Gene F 30-Ritz, Frances M 108-Robinson, Marie 3-Rogers, Mary 38-Rudolph, Anne 16-Soltysinski, Jacqueline 50-Sovich, Josephine ‘memory of mom & sister Josephine Fajdiga and Lillian Goryance 34-Stage, Virginia 50-Steffens, Kathleen ‘memory of mother Helen M Zak 32-Stragisher, Mary A 108-Stratton, Anne K 100-Tanita, Cynthia 23-Telich, Florence 20-Testen, Mary Ellen 3-Tezak, Dorothy Marie 5-Thompson, Josephine 13-Troya, Sophie M 109-Vidas, MaryC 99-Voss, Nada 43-Walsh, M Donalyn 20-Walsh, Marie 20-Williams, Margaret 47-Zagar, Bill * in memory of wife Beatrice Zagar 20-Zaida, Angela M $1? Donations 46-Ancel, Josephine 35-Hubbard, Lucy Elizabeth 10-Ivons, Jean 25-Kuhar, Margaret 20-Lustik, Josephine 100-Mlakar, Rosemary 23-Nemanich, Josephine 20-Pubentz, Margaret K 43-Rechlitz Family 32-Ster, Mary 20-Wanthal, Mary $)p Donations 105-Adamic, Frances 30-Aheame, Mary Ann 30-Ambrožič, Frances 25-Andrews, Frances Mary 39-Askew, Eleanor M 89-Banich, Mary Irene 5-Barbarich, Mary 28-Barrons, Rose 43-Bartlett, Robert and Denise 102-Bayuk, Edward & Josephine 38-Bizal, Frances A 50-Blatnik, Mary C 20-Kociuba, Barbara 93-Bodisch, Annamarie 20-Kodrick, Anthony 50-Bokar, Margaret 20-K.oncar, Dorothy 47-Bolek, Ludmilla A * memory 5-Konechnik, Dolores ofAgnes Žagar 71 -Boštjančič, Agnes 50-Bozic, Alice 79-Bratovich, Ellen 10-Brodnick, Molly 30-Brown, Deborah 10-Brozina, Dorothy 89-Bruch, Barbara and Kitty 24-Brunner, Gene & Mary Ann 109-Buchanan, Jeanette 2-Buol, Genevieve 33-Burger, Rose 25-Burjes, Caterina 20-Burkhardt, Elizabeth 20-Butterbach, Patricia 40-Cargould, Lainie 50-Castrovince, Nanci 42-Charvat, Eleanor M 103-Chokel, Mara Kočevar 42-Church, Marjorie 43-Coffelt, Mary 32-Cook, Agnes 20-Cox, Dolly 30-Criss, Nancy L 2-Cukale, Margaret 25-Debevec, Pauline 2-Desnica, Angela 63-Di Matteo, Mary T 20-Dirker, Sophia 2-Donofrio, Adrienne N 5-Dragan, Betty 12-Dragan, Frances 89-Ebner-Landgraf, Tammy 100-Eckert, Jeanette 30-Edgington, George L 20-Egly, Joan 20-Eijavec, Ronald 12-Fedran, Theresa C 42-Ferfolia, Don 39-Ferkul, Mary 47-Ferrante, Kathleen 50-Frank, Mary 43-Freiberg, Mary Cay 12-Gasperic, Ann L 50-Gillen, Sharon 25-Glivar, Helen 12-Glowienka, Frances 47-Godec, Josephine 32-Gomik, Josephine 5-Gravelie, Mayda 40-Grayson, Angeline 13-Gremett Fir, Diana 32-Hanks, Jacqueline J 2-Hanzlik, Maria 42-Harr, Betty Ann 38-Harwood, Elizabeth 105-Healy, Margaret 95-Hennelly, Dolores 38-Hoag, Laveme 25-Holderbaum, Michelle 102-Hribar, Spires, Karen 35-Hubbard, Michelle K 30-Hull, Mara Cerar 20-lvanich, Daniel 35-Jamnick, Dorothy L 43-Janezic, Josef 43-Janezic, Josephine 43-Janezic, Karen 12-Jelinek, Albert J 85-Jermenc, Murielann *for Jermene Family Members 20-Judnick, Marcia 20-Jurkas, Christine 89-Kamnikar, Terry L 14-Kaporc, Eleanor 20-Kastelec, Justine 42-Kastelic, Betty Ann 50-Katosic, Olga 89-KelIett, Rose 71-Kern, Sophia C 20-Kiehna, Sonya 25-Kimmel, Sylvia 35-Klun, Madelyn A 47-Kociancic, Mary Rose 99-Kocinec, Wanda 2-Kopfensteiner, Kathleen 25-Koporc, Agnes 32-Koss, Josephine 2-Kovacic, Jennie 108-Kovacic, Nika 30-Kozak, Vera F 20-Kramer, Catherine A 3-Krasovec, Bernice 24-Krpan, Anne 103-Kukenberger, Cynthia 38-Laurich, Anne L 47-Lea,Josephine 13-Leach, Agnes C 20-Leben, Barbara 20-Lesnik, Mary 20-Lilek, James 20-Lustik, Walter A 91-Marel, Eleanor 25-Marin, Patricia ‘memory of father Ted L Marin 16-Marinelli, Anne Marie 20-Marquardt, Darrell 20-Marquardt, Lydia 30-Massaia, Amelia 38-McDonald, Carol 66-MeFarland, Helen L 47-Mergec, Hermine 20-Mihelich, Clare 14-Miklich, Rose 24-Millman, Helena M 25-Mills, Marcelline 50-Misic, Josephine 5-Mohr, Mary Frances 30-Musil, Angela 23-Newberg, Connie 23-Newhouse, Margrette 35-Noson, Mary 20-Novak, Carol 97-Novak, Genevieve 12-Nuteson, Cecelia 50-0berman, Sarah Elizabeth 20-0’Blak, John 32-Ogoreue, Frances Alice 50-0kicki, Mary 20-01denburg, Frances 20-0tis, Jenniefer 2-Ovnik, Judith 2-Ovnik, Lorraine D 102-Pakiz, Rose »memory of Angeline Levesque 102-Pakiz, Susan 32-Penrod, Marian Rose 3-Perko, Ann J 20-Peterson, Mildred J 23-Petrich, Diana J 23-Petrich, Geraldine 3-Petrick, Hermina 20-Picco, Elizabeth 50-Picman, Justine 26-Pierzga, Mary C 46-Pisoni, Viola 20-Plese, Eileen 20-Plut, Dolores 40-Polutnik, Stephanie 30-Potepan, Agnes 23-Prijatel, Evelyn 43-Prijic, Helen 10-Prime, Donna 39-Purkat, Jane E 33-Radosevich, Margaret L 20-Rems, Margaret 2-Rhoads, Theresa 103-Richardson, Alenka 2-Rodenbostel, Elsie A 16-Rossi, Dorothy 39-Rukavina, Joseph R ♦memory of Anna Krancj and Ann Rukavina 20-Rutkowski, Bemadine 42-Sadowski, Lillian * memory of mother Mrs. Antonia Legan 24-Sanders, Millie 20-Sartorelli, Anne Schoener 30-Satalich, Nina V 20-Savol, Mary Jo 20-Savol, Rosanne 20-Scheidt, Marie 33-Schiltz, Kathleen J 89-Schmidt, Josephine 20-Scholp, Elizabeth 39-Schoonover, Barbara Perpich 108-Seaton, Sasha 55-Selak, Maria, Mark & Monica 16-Sertich, Concetta 54-Shine, Elsie 54-Shine, Wanda 100-Skebe, Matilda 23-Slogar, William 39-Smith, Angela 43-Smith, Jacquelyn 30-Smith, Marcia Jean 24-Smorkol, Florence 23-Smuk, Gloria 24-Spelich, Delores and Elmer 10-Spendal, Dorothy 2-Stanek, Christine 20-Staniszewski, Janice M 43-Starich, Rita M 2-Statkus, Elsie 102-Staut, Becky 102-Staut, Sophie 20-Steensland, Janet 32-Sterle, Mary 38-Sterle, Rose 3-Stofac, Mildred 1-Stropnik, Milena 2-Strupeck, Viola 20-Suwal, Laurie Kambic 30-Swintosky, Dorothy 56-Tarro, Mary Ann M 25-Tavcar, Frances M 1 -Tesovnik, Edward and Germaine 20-Tezak, Betty 23-Theno, Helen M 103-Thomas, Amelia 50-Toth, Rose Mary 95-Tranbarger, Theresa 43-Tratnik, Ronald 50-Troha, Helen 66-Ungrad, Ruth Ann 50-Unik, Emily C 2-Urbanski, Lenore 10-Urbas, Sophie 35-Urick, Barbara 50-Vecchione, JoAnn 54-Vett, Louise 6-Vidergar, Mildred 32-Vidmar, Marilyn Frances 20-Vinyard, Elizabeth 1-Virant, Justin L »memory of Carol Virant 12-Vodnik, Antonia 35-Vodovnik, Barbara 105-Volpe, Marian 6-Voros, Mary 2-Wadycki, Pamela 5-Watson, Marija 66-White, Frances 2-Wojdula, Elsie 34-Yapel, Agnes E 13-Yerman, Mary F 5-Yovanovich, Frances 2-Yucevicius, Frances 20-Yuvan,Jean 47-Zabak, Agnes D 55-Zagger,Anna 3-Zaitz, Anne E 25-Zak, Ann Marie 99-Zakosek, Thomas 10-Zalar, Elsie 1-Zaletel, Josephine 39-Zallar, Helen 2-Zubek, Genevieve 23-Zupancich, Judith SS Donations 66-Adamic, Mary Jane 39-Ahlin, Jennie 7-Allen, Veronica 14-Androjna, Francka 20-Attaway, Margaret 14-Azman, Alice 102-Backus, Edith 25-Banker, Helen 3-Bamett, Stephanie 25-Bartholomew, Annie E 25-Bartholomew, Nancy E 30-Baum, Helen M 20-Benac, Helen 39-Berg, Margaret 50-Berkopec, Jane 30-Bongiomi, Margaret 20-Bottomley, Elaine 102-Branch 102 43-Bregant, Mary 20-Brown, Dorothy A 95-Bubel, Bernice M 35-Ceglar, Bernice 35-Cina, Margaret 2-Ciszek, Elsie 32-Cooke, Anne 20-Coyne, Robyn 2-Debevc,Ada 3-DeBevc, Frances M 20-DiBartolomeo, Lillian 50-Doles, Anne 43-Dovnik, Aleah M 43-Dovnik, Danielle E 43-Dovnik, Rosalie 5-Dragan, Angeline 34-Dragavon, Justine 25-Drobnic, Genevieve 30-Eggen, Lillian 16-Ehnat, Mary Therese 79-Erickson, Theresa 3-Evans, Velma 103-Faas, Dolores M 20-Ferguson, Miehalene 55-Fooy,AnnaM 55-Fooy, Dori Kregar 55-Fooy, Nicolas Thomas 47-Ford, Linda 12-Frangesch, Mary 43-Fritz, Arline M 33-Galleberg, Agnes 30-Godfrey, Dorothy 25-Godic, Rose 1-Golob, Joan K 99-Gombac, Josephine 35-Goritchan, Gabriella 2-Gospo, Clare 20-Govednik, Jean 20-Gregorash, Lucille 20-Gregorich, Mollie 20-Gudac, Bemadine 47-Hall, Sky 71-Hervol, Helen 20-Hofer, Bertha 90-Hofrichter, Emma L 24-Hollerich, Lois 43-Homa, Heidi C 43-Homa, Holly C 105-Hostnik, Patricia 39-Indihar, Eleanor 47-Jordanek Family in memory of Albina 2-Judnic, Cynthia 55-Juvancic, Nettie 20-Keca, Margaret Mary 50-Kikel, Frances 50-Kirschner, Mary 20-Kobe, Charlene 32-Kobe, Stephana F 20-Kobe, William 12-Kobow, Estelle 20-Koren, Mary Alyce 47-Korman, Josephine 10-Korosee, Jean 39-Korsman, Jeanette K 20-Korst, Joyce A 20-Korst, Richard M 14-Kosem,Mira 10-Krall, Frances 50-Križman, Jean A 14-Kmel, Mary 12-Kugland, Karen 39-Kwiecinski, Mary Anne 24-Lauer, Wendy 108-Lawrence, Eveline 71-Lawrence, Rose Marie 20-Legerski, Joanne 20-Mahan, Dorothy 30-Malensek, Anton 10-Marolt, Mary 14-Martin, Suzanne 14-Martincic, Alice 30-Maslyk, Virginia 24-Matthews, Anne 71-Mavrich, Helen 34-May, Mary E 108-McFarland, Margaret 43-Menchak, Milka 12-Mershnik, Theresa F 20-Metesh, Bernice 1-Meyer, Patricia 20-Meyers, Rose 35-Mikulieh, Arlette 50-Minello, Josephine 79-Mitchell, Jeanette 2-Mladic, Krystal and Janet 5-Mollett, Antonia 103-Motta, Frances 34-Mustonen, Kathryn E 20-Mutz, Patricia 2-Nauheimer, Dolores 108-Neal, Alyssa 108-Neal, Jackie Jo 108-Neal, Miranda 108-Neal, Shannon T 23-Niskala, George 14-Okleson, Mary 50-0rlikowski, Anne 93-Palcic, Mary H 25-Peterlin, Victoria 50-Petrovic, Josephine M 50-Petsche, Helen T 50-Pipoly, Evelyn 50-Pipoly, Michael 50-Podmore, Joan 54-Ponikvar, Joanne 30-Popich, Katherine A 25-Pozelnik, Albina 34-Pustovar, Monica 35-Rabb, Marlys C 20-Regis, Dorothy 1-Rupar, Joan 14-Sadar, Mary 68-Satej, Carol 43-Schuita, Shirley 99-Sehultz, Frances 16-Sebahar, Victor Jr. 20-Sebalj, Olga 22-Sebastian, Helen 10-Seday, Olga Mary 14-Sedmak, Elsie 93-Shallins, Olga M 30-Shisila, Christine 89-Sitar, Barbara 102-Sixel, Patricia M 47-Skul, Mary A 47-Slak, Agnes M 1-Slebir, Anne 100-Tanita, Alexis G 2-Todd-Fellows, Mary 20-Vergo, Mary 20-Vidmar, Michael 20-Vidmar, N icholas 99-Vlasic, Maria 30-Vorisek, Mary 35-Vovk, Anita 46-Webb, Ida Barut 20-Webber, Carol J 20-Weber, Elaine 35-Wilson, Alice N 42-Wolf, Patricia 30-Wos, Charlotte 20-Yattoni, Barbara 42-Yemec, Mary Anne 99-Zalokar, Marilyn 2-Zalokar, Mildred 39-Zamlen, Molly June 2-Zeleznikar, Jean 32-Znidarsic, Mary 35-Zuponcic, Helen 20-Lustick, David F S2 Donations 50-Duncan, Sherri 33-Janchar, Dorothy A 89-Taylor, Karen SI Donation 10-Svigel, Josephine News from SWUA.org Your SWUA Web Site Our Portal Into The Future In the nascent days of SWUA, the organization leaders reached members by word of mouth, letters and mainly, our magazine, Zarja The Dawn. What a wonder it must be for our senior members to watch the advent of computer technology impact our organization. Now, we reach you monthly with our e-newsletter, The New Neighborhood, and every day at SWUA.org. Currently, we’re working to bring you more information about what’s happening at SWUA in a more timely manner at SWUA.org. In recent weeks we’ve added a variety of articles of interest to members. If you want to read more about Slovenian history, check out the book review of “The History of Kostel 1500-1900: between two civilizations” at http:/ /www.swua.org/genealogv/index.html. That, and other top-notch book reviews can be found at your SWUA Web site. Have you heard about the new membership campaign? Do you know how last year’s campaign turned out? The information is at the tip of your fingers. Just check out this recent article wrapping up the 2005 campaign and giving you the latest tidbits on the upcoming membership drive goals at http://www.swua.org/membership/2006campaign.htm. If you know of a junior member who is eligible for a scholarship - or maybe you’re returning to school full time and could use a little financial help - you’ll want to fill out our scholarship application. We’re using our Web site as a way to get you the forms you need, including the scholarship application, which can be found at http://www.swua.org/ scholarships/index.html. Maybe you’ve been encouraging a family member or friend to join SWUA, and you’ve been telling them about our great magazine. We have posted not only a glimpse into our beautiful, newly-designed Zarja on our Web site at http:// www.swua.org/zaria/, but also a history of the magazine as well on the same page. Maybe you’d like to listen to great polka music at work or while you’re working around the house, but you don’t know where you can find decent Slovenian music. Just check out our page of links, http://www.swua.org/web links.htm. which lists places on the Internet where you can listen to and buy all sorts of Slovenian music including polkas and waltzes. Of course, we want people to be able to easily join SWUA, so we have also posted our membership application at SWUA.org. Just send your friends and family to http://www.swua.org/membership/ioin.htm to access our membership form. And if you, a relative or someone you know wants to start receiving our e-newsletter, they can go to our Web site not only to sign up to have the monthly New Neighborhood sent to them, but also to read the previous months’ newsletters at http://www.swua.org/eNewsletter/. We hope you’ll explore and take advantage of all the information on SWUA.org. Technology today is helping us reach members in new ways never dreamed of - and we hope as we reach out to you in these modem ways, you’ll embrace all that we have to offer. About the Editor: Cummings has been an SWUA member for four years. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has been a writer/editorfor more than 12 years. She’s been writing for Zarja and SWUA.org for two years. You can reach her at Icc0920(a).ameritech. net with comments or questions. Leslie Cummings SWUA.oi-g Editor SWUA Scholarship Program Scholarship News of 2006-2007 Ten years have passed since I became the director of the SWUA Scholarship Program. During this time frame, a tax exemption 501c3 was obtained, a wonderful gift of $100,000.00 was given by the Slovene Rest Home Association of Fontana, California, a $5,000 estate check was received from Anna Rose Smolich, members have sponsored $ 1,000 scholarships in honor of their loved ones and many donations were received from you; individuals and branches to make these past years so successful. It has been a pleasure to work with young students and assist them to reach their educational goals. Applications through these years have revealed to all that young Slovene people are high achievers in both scholastic and community work. It was amazing to read of all the charitable work they had already accomplished in their first eighteen years of life. The past ten years would not have been possible without the assistance of Marge Church, Vice President of the SWUA Scholarship Foundation, Mary Prisland, Secretary, SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS $ 1,000.00 Anthony Colnar - funding for the 2006 Frances Barman Scholarship $100.00 Ann Zupančič (+her sister Margaret Zupančič) Genevieve M Shubitz - Scholarship Fund Update on Past Scholarship Winners STACI SLEIGH-LAYMAN - 1976 SWUA Scholarship “I can hardly believe that 30 years have gone by! The SWUA Scholarship helped me finance my first year at the University of Washington. I struggled through my first 45 credits, thinking I wanted to be a medical doctor. Wow, was I wrong. I found that English, Sociology, and history classes were much more to my liking and talents. After taking fifteen years at three institutions to finish my bachelor’s degree, it’ll probably take me just as long to finish my master’s (although I only have my thesis to complete). Three children, my husband, Dan, human rights work, church, 4-H .. .1 couldn’t ask for a fuller life! Thanks, SWUA for being there in my youth and continuing to preserve our Slovenian heritage!” SUPPORT SWUA SCHOLARSHIPS Margaret Francel, Past Treasurer, and SWUA Liaison Officers: Kathy Ferrante and Betty Ann Kolesari. The committee members who have served four year terms have had to critically evaluate each applicant. Without their dedication, this program would never have survived. The SWUA Scholarship Program is a charity of which we can all be proud. A Special Thanks to all of you who have donated to the Scholarship Program - your gifts are truly appreciated and will be acknowledged in Zarja. Donations and communications can be sent to: Mary H. Turvey, Director SWUA Scholarship Program 52 Oakridge Drive Marquette, Michigan 49855 $20.00 Albert J Jelinek (+ Mary Bucovnik - Charter Member of Branch 12) Sandra Farrell - Scholarship Fund $10.00 Dorothy M Zakrasek - Scholarship Kathleen Starcevich (+01ga Mohar) Kathleen Starcevich (+Christina Bradish) CHRISTINA SKALKO - 2002 SWUA Scholarship “Since receiving the SWUA Scholarship in 2002, my life has been filled with new and exciting experiences. Throughout these past 4 years, I have been active in many organizations on and off-campus, such as Women’s Soccer Club, Society of Women Engineers, Chi Epsilon Civil Engineering Honor Society, Inter-Christian Council, Respect Life ministry, and a member of St. Albert the Great University Parish. In addition to this, my awareness of Slovenian culture and people seems to be ever increasing, as this area is particularly devoted to Bishop Baraga, who came from Slovenia to minister in this area. My years at Michigan Technological University are coming to a close now, as I graduate this coming April with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. At the completion of this semester, I will work in St. Paul, MN where I have accepted an engineering position with Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik & Associates.” BOOKS OF SLOVENIA - IN ENGLISH The Making of the Slovenian State/1988-1992; and the Collapse of Yugoslavia Authored by Prime Minister Janez Jansa, this book gives an insider’s view of the period leading to Slovenia’s independence and a portrait of the people who emerged along with it. Hardback English edition has 52 photos in 256 pages. Price - $44.95 National Atlas of Slovenia The Library Journal, 2002 Hardback - $72.95 (Also available in Slovenian - $50.95) Wines of Slovenia Translated into English, this new book covers 386 vineyards, a remarkable number for such a small country. Presented by region, the wines are rated in a four star system and paired to food recommendations. Authored by ethnologist Dr. Janez Bogataj and viniculturalist Dr. Julij Nemanič. Price - $72.95 Handicrafts of Slovenia This gorgeous book presents the craft art of over 200 craftsmen working in traditional forms. Includes a guide to artisans by region with contact information. 315 pages with 532 color photos. Standard edition - $87.95, exhibition edition with 143 color photographs in 172 pages - $40.95 Slovenia from the Air There is no better way to appreciate the natural beauty of Slovenia than from the air. Over 200 stunning aerial photos in its 242 pages. Price - $90 now $50.95 Slovenia: My Country This is one of the best photographic portraits of Slovenia ever published. It was produced by Joco Žnidaršič, the long-serving photo editor of DELO, the major daily newspaper in Slovenia. “My Country” captures the stunning beauty of Slovenia in 277 photographs over its 200 pages. English narration. Price - $87.95 Slovenian Cookery Over 100 classic Slovenian dishes are provided in this recent publication. Recipes selected by Slavko Adamlje, one of Slovenia’s foremost chefs. 83 color photographs over its 144 pages. Attention is also given to the wines of each region. Price - $50.95 Come My Gentle Ariel This is the best known of renowned Slovenian author Mira Mihelic’s many stories for young people. It is based on the author’s up-bringing in her grandmother’s home in the mining town of Trbovlje. 129 pages with 18 illustrations. Price - $31.95 Slovenian Folk Tales An English version of one of the best-selling Slovenian children’s books, with six Slovenian folk tales and 52 great full-color illustrations in 82 pages. Price - $34.95 Slovene-English Dictionary At 935 pages, this hardcover edition is intended for most translation tasks. At the condensed size of 5" x 3" x 1", the dictionary is great for travelers. Price - $65.95 ALSO AVAILABLE Guide to Slovenian Museums - $53.95 / Plecnik’s Market in Ljubljana - $77.95 /Plecnik’s Treasures: - $77.95 / Triglav National Park Guide and Map - $31.95 /Architectural Guide to Ljubljana - Paperback - $54.95 /Slovenia Pocket Guide - $15.95 /Slovenian Cooking - $15.95 Slovenia Roadmap - $13.95 /Slovenia: The First 10 Years - $82.95 Prices include shipping and handling. Orders can be placed by credit card on-line at: www.BooksofSlovenia.com or by sending a check (or purchase order) payable to Books of Slovenia to 453 Rialto Avenue, Venice, CA 90291. For information call (310) 392-4843 or email BooksofSlovenia@comcast.net DIANA FIR GREMETT 1990 SWUA Scholarship Diana Fir Gremett is a graduate of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with a Bachelor and Master’s degree in Operatic Vocal Performance. She received her single subject teaching credential in K-12 music at Notre Dame deNamur University and is currently working on her National Certification in early Childhood Music through a support group at Stanford University. She is President of KSKJ St. Francis Lodge 236 and teaches kindergarten through fifth grade vocal music at a public school. She teaches piano and voice privately after school and has enjoyed performing as Sister Margaretta in The Sound of Music and as a soloist in Davies Symphony Hall’s Sing It yourself Messiah. Diana studied the Slovenian language at Poletna Šola through the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia in the summer of 2001 and teaches her Kindergarten students Slovenian folk songs. Diana is forever grateful for the scholarship from Zarja (SWUA Scholarship Program). It is imperative that the readers help support students in their pursuit of education. http://www.kompas-online.net/ For your travel in Slovenia KOMPAS All you need in travel A Sovereign and Independent Slovenia Following the first democratic elections in Slovenia, on December 23,1990, a sovereign and independent Slovenia was declared on June 25,1991. The statement was received with wonder and amazement by most of the world but especially by the tens of thousands Slovenians living outside Slovenia in the United States. To us, children of immigrants, the idea of free elections and a democratic form of government is our God-given right. We came to America for them. In Slovenia, the hope for their own identity and to have their own democracy was growing for decades, but seemed to be only a dream. My grandmother prayed for it - never expecting it to happen during her lifetime or the lifetimes of her grandchildren. I have had a personal relationship with Slovenia’s freedom movement because like many others, in the ten days between June 25th and July 4th, 1991, a strong organization, the Slovenian American Council of Chicago was formed and enrolled many of us to work for the cause, sitting up nights, manning the phones and passing information on to the people in Chicago who might help reach influential people in the US government. We were listening for news from any source that Slovenia would be ok and survive the confrontation of war and that the Slovenian people would survive. We demanded that the United States would “Free Slovenia ” was the message acclaimed by hundreds of Chicagoans at a rally supporting the new independence of Slovenia on July 4, 1991, the same day as America was celebrating its own independence. Yet, it has survived and in 1991, when Slovenia made its final move, we in the United States were ready and eager to help our countrymen achieve their goal. From sea to shining sea, Slovenians in America took up the call and rallied, sending cards, letters, making calls and writing to their representatives. Postcards were addressed to the then President of the United States, George Bush, and petitions followed. Our members spoke up and were recognize Slovenia’s declaration of independence and give whatever help needed, and that the USA would support our homeland in their struggle. The dream for an independent Slovenia is very old Slovenian history begins with the early middle ages and their participation with other Slavs in organized councils or voting bodies. Later, The Installation of the Duke of Carantania in the 8th Century was carried out by an assembly of people of the Slovenian inhabited region gathered on the fields of Gospasveta to bestow authority and confer the title of “duke” on their democratically chosen leader by enthroning him ceremoniously (This early manifestation of democracy, as students of history know, is accepted to be one of the influences on Thomas Jefferson, as he prepared to write the American concept for the Declaration of Independence in 1775). Through many centuries, the Slovenians co-existed in tribal and provincial assemblies. Much later history shows they aspired for unification in a separate body, as the kingdom of Slovenia, but it never was realized. It is hard to know how the dream for independence survived through all the centuries. heard, often by the media. Our National President at the time, Victoria Bobence, spoke in an interview for the Minneapolis Star Tribune, the reporter calling her a “symbol of her heritage”. She said that from an emphasis on home, cooking and fundraising, the members of SWUA were turning to political action in support of the struggle for Slovenia’s independence. “I’d never really been focused globally up until this point. Since becoming an officer in the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, and through a lot of reading, I’ve become aware of things such as the price people must pay for freedom and peace”, she was quoted as saying. The world found it a compelling story that this small country would challenge an occupier and demand its own identifiable form of government, a republic! The Republic of Slovenia! It woke up many people across the country; they finally could identify with a place called Slovenia and now they know who they are. They are not Austrian or Yugoslavian as they thought. No matter how jumbled up is the memory of what grandma or grandpa told them about where they came from, or that they do not know how to say any words in Slovenian or name any places there, they still know who they are and it makes them proud to say it. I think members of Slovenian Women’s Union of America have had a head-start on this issue because we have been Slovenia is small; the population has just reached the two million mark. Those of us Slovenians living in the United States are a considerable number -estimated at about a quarter million. Slovenian people are intrinsically hard working and freedom-loving, and this makes them strong, and this is our connection. You just don’t know how happy it makes us feel to know that we have this connection, it energizes us and gives us added determination to frame future plans according to the words of the SWUA Mission Statement: To Preserve Our Own Culture and Heritage. It’s that simple. - by Corinne Leskovar The Independent State of Slovenia Choosing Independence and the Ten-Day War In 1980, the economic and political situation started to become very strained and this ultimately led, ten years later to the end of the SFRY (Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia). The first clear demand for Slovenian independence was made in 1987 by a group of intellectuals in the 57th edition of the magazine Nova revija (New Magazine). The arrest of three journalists from the political weekly Mladina magazine and a non-commissioned officer of the Yugoslav Army sparked off demands for democratization and resistance against the centralized Yugoslavia. In 1988 and 1989 the first political opposition parties emerged, which in the 1989 May Declaration demanded a sovereign state for the Slovenian nation. In April 1990, the first democratic elections in Slovenia took place and were won by DEMOS, the united opposition movement. In the same year more than 88% of the electorate voted for a sovereign and independent Slovenia. The declaration of independence followed on 25 June 1991. The next day, the Yugoslav Army attacked the newly formed state. After a ten-day war, a truce was called and in October 1991 the last soldiers of the Yugoslav Army left Slovenia. In November, a law on denationalization was adopted and in December, a new constitution. The European Union recognized Slovenia in the middle of January 1992, and the United Nations accepted it as a member in May 1992. In February 1999, an association agreement with the European Union came into effect and Slovenia applied for full membership. Slovenia joined the European Union on May 1, 2004. - SINFO magazine SINFO is a monthly magazine that brings news from Slovenia on politics, environment, culture, business and sports. http://www.uvi.si/eng/slovenia/publications/sinfo/ working for almost 80 years on promoting our identity. Every time a group of us comes before the American public we show ourselves as Slovenians. Our Zarja-The Dawn comes into many homes and is concentrated on historical, literary and heritage information and it clearly tells that story. We travel to the homeland and try to educate our youth to expand their worlds to include Slovenia in their studies. We celebrate the good news reported in the world-wide media about the athletes, musicians and professionals who make the news and win awards. Independence Day Slovenia’s 15th Anniversary: How I Survived A War I am a war survivor. Saying that or putting it down on paper sounds so surreal. Was I really there, physically present when the military aircrafts were bombing my country, meticulously targeting all the important strategic sites, such as TV and radio stations, the municipal, governmental premises and even areas inhabited by civilians only. Summer of 1991: June 25th. I felt so proud of my nation. We celebrated our independence for the first time. Let us reverse the timeline a bit and start with the evening. It was a remarkable evening, the spacious square in front of the Houses of Parliament in Ljubljana was all covered with red carpets; our flag with all our key national symbols was proudly fluttering in the sweetly scented summer air. I was lucky enough to be there witnessing the glory and grandeur of the moment. Prior to that grand event, we had strawberries and champagne at home and even though I was only 16,1 could taste the exquisite blend of perfectly ripe strawberries and “Zlata penina”, one of my favorite types of sparkling wine. The strawberry afternoon turned into an evening with the vanilla colored sky reflecting in the windows of Ljubljana houses. The memories of that June evening are so vivid still, I even remember watching David Lynch’s Blue Velvet on TV and having Ketty Lester’s version of “Love Letters” piercing my teenage heart. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster, all those emotions dancing inside of me.. .pride, excitement, unawareness of what was going to happen next. That unawareness, ignorance even, could, I believe, be attributed to a lot of people on that lovely June day. Few knew that the borders were going to be closed the following day and that there would be soldiers with shotguns patrolling the streets, the horrifying sound of bombers whizzing through the cloudless summer air and the tanks with the Yugoslav Army invading our land, all that was only a day away. “What a difference a day makes! 24 little hours” as the song goes. On June 26th, a couple of armed soldiers walked right into our garden and told us that they had to place some of their observation or surveillance equipment in our garden. They claimed it was a perfect strategic spot for observing the activities on a nearby hill where the Yugoslav Army was supposedly lurking. The very next morning, I was awakened by the sound of sirens, a sound I’d never heard before was resonating through our entire neighborhood. “Fighter planes! Fighter planes!” my grandmother, a WW II survivor, yelled. We turned on the TV and the Minister for Information (former Defense Secretary) Jelko Kacin declared that the country was in a state of war. I distinctly remember his incredibly calm, almost soothing voice: “Do not panic, just closely follow the instructions provided to you via radio, TV, or newspapers. Protect yourselves and your beloved.” Lea Flis, Branch 93 So we did, my family and I quickly packed some essentials and ran to a bunker about 150 feet from our house. We stayed there for about 4 hours, until the sky was more or less clear. I didn’t think about dying at the time, maybe I was just too young or I sort of stoically accepted whatever was to come. Fast forwarding a bit, I was lying on a sofa in our living room, a day of two after the bunker experience when a horrible sound shook the whole house. I almost fell off the couch. We all jumped to our feet and ran outside. Soon we learned that one of the fighter planes had broken the sound barrier. I honestly thought I was going to choke on my own heart, I felt totally shaken and utterly scared. There was nothing to do but wait. Wait to see what the next day or night had in store for us all. We were helplessly waiting for something completely devastating, an apocalypse, or a miraculous turnaround of the events. Another day, another blast; a chopper was shot down a couple of blocks away from where I lived with a huge explosion and a heavy grey cloud of fumes and debris hovered in the air. We were all still waiting for a magic touch of God or Fate that would end the madness and chaos around us. Finally divine intervention came. After ten days it all went suddenly quiet, soldiers and snipers disappeared from the streets of Ljubljana, my home town, and Slovenia started breathing again, inhaling and exhaling freely without having a huge stone of fear and uncertainty laid on our chests. What really happened that the Slovenian war for independence ended in ten days? Who or what intervened? Was it a political agreement, some concealed mysterious treaty that saved us or was it Godly intervention? It remains unclear to this day what exactly rescued us from the grip of Fate that was awaiting the Croatians and Bosnians. I guess the answer lies concealed in some bureau or in some classified document. In a file that saved many lives, but also took too many. Those lives are lost forever, the names and faces, however, of the people who bravely fought for the independence of our state desired so passionately by our nation for centuries, remain locked in our memories forever and in this case, forever will never turn out to be long enough. - by Lea Flis Lea Flis was born and raised in the Slovene capital of Ljubljana. She is a doctorial student of American Literature at the University of Ljubljana. Currently she is a visiting scholar on a one-year research scholarship in New York City (Fordham University). Men in a SWUA World Summer: Fishing and Picnics We are moving into the summer months which means fishing and picnics. Let’s start with how popular and exciting fishing is in Slovenia. It is a passion for many Slovenians, Don Baldin, Branch 24 especially fly Oktoberfest - Munich, Germany fishing. I don’t know if you have ever tried fly fishing, but it is extremely difficult and takes a lot of practice to master. For those of you have never tried to fly fish here it is in a nut shell. First you wade into a river with your trusty fly rod, net and hip boots. Once you’re in the stream or river the next step is to attach your fly which is a little lure that looks like, you guessed it, a fly. Now we are ready for the hard part, the cast. How this works is pretty amazing, first you throw the fly forward and then you yank it back behind you and then whip it back towards the front each time letting more and more line out until you feel the fly will land where you want it and finally letting it land softly in the water in front of you. Sounds easy but, it’s not. I’d love to tell you what to do next but that’s as far as I’ve ever gotten, I usually end up hooking myself or someone else and switching to my trusty rod and reel! If you are interested in learning this and are in Slovenia, here are a couple of places you could get the instruction you need. First, a Slovenian trout hot spot is in the Krka river, a pure chalk stream with both brown and rainbow trout. The river is located in a part of Slovenia called Dolenjska, a small river of small water falls, fast runs and deep water holes making it perfect for trout fishing. Here one can take out trophy size trout, with the best time to fish in the early evening. Another great spot is in either of the clear alpine rivers that stream down the Alps, such as Soča and Sava rivers which hold many types of trout such as marble, gray, brown and rainbow. There are numerous guide services and licenses range from 20 to 90 euro depending on which region you choose. But remember to practice your technique before you head over. Marie T. Stelow, MS, LCPC Individual, Couple, Family Therapy 1000 Essington Road Phone: (815) 773-2303 Joliet, IL 60431 Fax: (815) 744-1623 __________________________________________________________J Now let’s move on to picnics, a great summer activity, whether it’s with a large group or just a romantic encounter for two. A picnic is always a wonderful and relaxing setting. If you choose to plan that small romantic picnic for two, here are a few tips. First try to find a nice spot with a great view like looking at Bled Castle or maybe a nice nature scene near where you live. Next, it’s always good to start out with a nice Slovenian wine or champagne, then follow that up with a light lunch, maybe some fresh bread, fine cheese and of course a little bit of prosciutto. After lunch, if time permits, a short hike would be the perfect finale to your picnic. Remember guys, it’s really nice to surprise your lady with this type of a picnic because you know we don’t do it enough. A good day for a picnic might be Slovenia’s Independence Day, June 25th. Let’s all remember that day and toast a few glasses of wine in honor of our homeland. Well, that’s it for me; I hope you enjoyed our short visit to Slovenia’s fishing spots as much as I did. Now if you give fly fishing a try, don’t forget to drop me a line (terrible pun) and let me know how you did at doomtribe@aol.com. Also don’t forget old Don on those summer picnic guest lists! Until next time, let good luck be yours! - by Don Baldin Fly-fishing on the Soča River Photographer: J. Skok Picture from Slovenian Tourist Board www.slovenia. info Kid Talk Children Discovering their Roots Hello everyone. Hope you are enjoying the warm weather. For me this time of year represents softball. I just love this game and look forward to the days I spend at a ball park. I would like to introduce my fellow Slovenian-American friend Juliana. I look forward to meeting you at the 2007 National Convention in Illinois. - Babs Hi Babs, my name is Juliana Fitzsimmons. I just turned seven. My branch is in Maryland. We do lots of fun activities. The last thing we did was march in a St. Patrick’s Day Parade. I like dressing up in the narodna noša. My stara mama made it for my mom to wear when she was a little girl, now it’s my turn. My mom makes pretty braids for me whenever I wear the costume. We wave at the crowd and they cheer as we walk by in our Slovenian dress, it is fun! I like going out afterwards for lunch with the other junior members, too. At the Pustna veselica we all made masks and played with other kids. (See pictures on the SWUA website www.swua.org) My mom made hundreds of krofi for the party. I ate krofi all day long that day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They taste sweeter with sprinkled sugar. Every time I got hungry at the party, I ran to the kitchen to eat krofi before they even had sugar on them. We were at that party from morning until night doing all kinds of things. I don’t like Slovenian sausages or hotdogs, so I was happy to eat my mom’s krofi. For Palm Sunday we’ll make butarice, we cut greens and flowers in our yard and bind them together with ribbons. Since we don’t grow pussy willow bushes in our yard, we buy a few branches of pussy willows at the store and bind them together with the stuff from our yard. We bring them to our church and add palm branches, you can do this activity too. For Easter Saturday we take our food to be blessed at the Our Lady of Brezje Slovenian Chapel in Washington, DC. We put all our painted Easter eggs (pisanice), ham, bread and potica in a big basket. We go to my stara mama’s house afterwards for an Easter Saturday Slovenian dinner. I’ve never been to Slovenia, one day I’d like to go to Slovenia to see castles, mountains and to visit my cousins. Our relatives don’t have enough space for our family of six to all stay over. I thought everyone there wore narodna noša until I met Mr. Flisar and Jana Bauer. Jana Bauer invited us and said they have lots of space for all of us to stay over. I am also a member of KSKJ, I won first prize in the KSKJ photo contest youth category for my “Steaming hot pots in Yellowstone National Park” picture I took with a disposable camera. My winning photo was printed on page 18 of the 2/22/06 KSKJ Voice newspaper. Going to Yellowstone National Park in Montana last summer was the biggest trip I ever took with my family. We saw wild moose, elk, deer, one bear and many big birds eating and playing in their natural habitat. I do lots of other things that don’t have anything to do with my Slovenian heritage, but I’ll have to tell you more about my other activities another time. We might come to the National SWUA Convention in Illinois, so maybe we’ll meet then and we can talk more. - Juliana Editor’s Note Thanks, Juliana, it was nice learning more about you. I hope you are the first of many other children who would like to be guest writers for Zarja. If so, please contact Zarja at wprokup@aol.com. Fitzsimmons Juliana Branch 108 Kids in the News Bailey Ribich, junior member of Branch 39 Biwabik, Minnesota was cast in the Passion play as one of Christ’s miracles. Bailey is the granddaughter of Rosemary and Bob Ribich. Erika Pell, junior member of Branch 5, Indianapolis, Indiana junior member in the play The Little Town of Christmas. Josie Brady (left) and Barbi Prokup (right) Barbi Prokup (left) and Josie Brady (right) Cousins Barbi Prokup and Josie Brady junior members of Branch 24, LaSalle, Illinois were cast in the stage production of The King & I. Slovenian Dezela English Country a r e Slovenija Slovenia X d d Začeti Begin n e P Rojstni dan Birthday i c 0 Torta Cake c j c Pocitnice Holiday m z i Junij June o f t Maj May d a n Zmagal Won e t i Slovenski Slovenian r 0 c Petindvajset Twenty-five f r e Dan državnosti National Day u t X Piknik Picnic n a V Moder Blue 1 i k Rdec Red s 1 0 Bela White t s r FIND THE WORDS u y z m a g a 1 m e V b q V P c m j z n m 1 w d e z e 1 a b V P e k t e 1 e c i n w 1 j i h g s e a e r j u n i j k t n j w q V d b n g i P d r z a V n 0 s t i m 1 i h a b e 1 a k i u m u j j u 0 0 n f i 1 c s e k V P i c e 1 1 e q j e t k m a j e t e s n h e e r r b k y u i n t V e n s k i g j t i 0 j s t n i d a n k Great Annuity Rates! 5-year Guaranteed Interest KSKJ 4.40% § AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOLIC J UNION 2439 Glenwood Ave., Joliet, IL 60435 7-year Flexible Annuity 1-800-843-5755 5.40% guaranteed first 12 months WWW.KSKJLlfe.COIIl Discovering Your Roots Oral History - Passing On Family Lore There is never an Ohio SGSI Chapter genealogy meeting that a new member joins the group and doesn’t say, “I wish we had talked more about Mom’s and Dad’s lives—where they were bom, how they grew up, what was important to them. Now they are gone and I don’t know where to begin.” You may be fortunate enough to have garnered information from your folks, but have you ever thought about recording these stories on tape or writing them down to provide information for a written history of your family? Probably not. It’s something we generally do not think of doing. However, the time may come when you wish you had, especially when the older generation is no longer around to share their own stories as well as the stories they learned from their parents and grandparents. Learning the value of “oral” family history is a fitting way to reaffirm your roots. Storytelling in families is an invaluable activity that binds families together and establishes a legacy that provides rich details in the fabric of a family’s life. The intent of this article is to provide a roadmap for you to gather your family’s oral history. Take a bit of time now to consider the suggestions offered and plan your quest with a goal in mind, that goal being to interview and record as many people as you can who will share your family’s stories with you. First, determine who you want to interview - grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, cousins, any and all distant relatives as well as close friends of the family. Choose equipment that records clearly such as a regular cassette player, a mini cassette player, or a video camera. Develop a method to archive the tapes and decide where you will keep them. Thoroughly test the equipment before the interview—check the sound quality to determine how close/far from the microphone the person needs to be. Pay attention to how well the recorder picks up background noises as these may make it difficult to understand the dialogue when you replay the tape. Set goals for yourself, prepare beforehand the questions you want to ask and be sure these questions are brief, open-ended questions that do not require a “yes” or “no” answer. For example, ask “What do your remember most about your childhood?” rather than saying, “Do you have any fond memories of your childhood?” Find an old photo to take to the interview and ask if the person can identify the people, places, or things in the photo, ask about the events of the time. Bring your family pedigree chart or family group sheets with you to help keep the ancestors straight! When arranging the interview, encourage the person to look over old photo albums, scrapbooks or other memorabilia to help refresh his/her memory before coming to the interview and ask that these materials be brought to the interview. To continue, find a quiet area for the interview and place the recorder where there will be no other people or distractions intruding on the conversation. Before beginning ^ose Marie Jisa, the actual interview identify President Ohio Chapter ,r- Slovenian Genealogy yourself on the tape and give the date, the place of the interview, name the person you are interviewing and note his/her relationship to you, if any. Understand that the person you are interviewing may be intimidated by the microphone, so begin the conversation talking about a mundane subject such as the weather to help the person feel more comfortable. It is important that you avoid adding your own comments as the person speaks, let the person do the talking! If he/ she is long-winded or goes off on another tangent say something like, “That is very interesting, but before we discuss that..then, refocus on your question. Keep the interview short. If you begin to hear, “I don’t remember,” then you know the interview has run too long! If you get information from the person that conflicts with information you already have, i.e., the date of birth or death of a family member, make note of it, but don’t make a big thing about it! When you complete the interview, try to find the information to corroborate which answer is correct! When you finish, ask if there is anything else the person would like to share as he/she may bring up something you didn’t think about! After the interview, transcribe your notes as soon as possible while they are still fresh in your mind! This is also a good time to note things you forgot to ask so you’ll be prepared if there is another interview. You might want to send a copy of the transcript to the person to edit, asking for corrections; this makes the person feel involved. The answers you get when conducting a personal interview may give you the only chance you will ever have to ask questions. You will never regret time spent doing this! I encourage you to talk with family members, relatives, or friends who may have stories to tell. Also I encourage you to record or write your own life’s stories as well. As Al Peterlin, President of the Slovenian Genealogy Society International, Inc. said in the January 2005 edition of The Linden Tree (a quarterly newsletter published by SGSI), “Don’t let another day pass without starting to write down the story of your family’s life and the story of “YOUR life ...It is never too soon, but can be too late! - by Rose Marie Jisa Visit www.slovenianeenealopv.org for more information. Living Your Legacy Through Genealogy: Unique Slovenian Descendant Repositories of Information. In this issue I will provide unique repositories of information that Slovenian descendants may want to use in their research. While there are people of Slovenian descent living all over the U.S. and Canada, repositories are very much evident in the Midwest. IThe first repository of genealogical information is the C&H and Quincy Mine Employment records at Michigan Technological University in Houghton. The individual records are not online. A visit to Houghton is required to view the records, many Slovenian miners started at the copper mines in Michigan. A note from NARA on the preservation of the mining records can be found at this URL: http://www.archives.gov/nhprc/annotation/march-98/copper-countrv.html and an overview of the record collection can be found at this URL http://www.lib.mtu.edu/ mtuarchives/overview.aspx 2The second repository of genealogical information is the Iron Range Research Center, which is located in Chisholm, Minnesota, where you can order records over the Internet or visit in person. The URL for this organization is http://www.ironrangeresearchcenter.org/. 3 A third repository of genealogical information is the Immigration History Research Center in St. Paul, Minnesota affiliated with the University of Minnesota. This records center holds Slovenian language newspapers as well as personal collections of Slovenian immigrants and descendant’s papers. Slovenians often visit the Research Center in conjunction with their own research projects. The URL is http://www.ihrc.umn.edu/. 4A fourth repository of genealogical information is the Chicago Historical Society, located in Chicago, Illinois. More information on this research center can be found at this URL http://www.chicagohs.org/. In addition to the Ivan Molek collection there are other records pertaining to Chicago area Slovenians and their descendants. A personal visit is required to search and view the records. 5 A fifth repository of genealogical information for researchers living in the western U.S. is Gornick Slovenian Library and Museum and St. Mary’s Genealogy Center in Pueblo, Colorado. The center has no direct presence on the Internet. Genealogy research is available eorge autz through sacramental records of all churches in the Pueblo Diocese from the 1800s through 1957, naturalization, census, cemetery and Intemet-immigration records. There is a minimal research fee. For information, call 564-1539. 6 A sixth repository of genealogical information can be found in Joliet, Illinois, at the SWUA Heritage Museum. The Society maintains an archive of rare books, indices and will eventually be providing member’s death benefit records, another source of genealogical data. 7 A seventh repository of genealogical information is the Family Research Center sponsored by the Mormon Church. These centers are located throughout the United States and other countries. You can locate the centers and find out what records they possess by using this URL: http:/ /www.familvsearch.org/. There are many parish registers in Slovenia, which have been microfilmed before World War Two and are available for viewing at a Center. The microfilm numbers are required before the film can be ordered and viewed. So far in these articles I have covered the following places to find genealogy data: family reunions and personal memories, books and periodicals, and in this issue, research centers. I would like to know if I have missed any of the research centers in the U.S. unique to Slovenians. Please email me at glplautz@aol.com if you have uncovered another research center or have comments regarding my articles.Adijo. - by George Plautz You can send your genealogy questions to Ask George by sending it to “I have some news to submit ” found on the website under SWUAeNewsletter. He will attempt to answer these questions via the eNewsletter. To America... The Immigrant Experience 100% SLOVENIAN, The Movie The idea for the documentary film 100% Slovenian came from a chance encounter and a question. At the beginning of my five-year stay in New York (2000-04) 1 met a girl who didn’t have any connection either with Slovenia or the culture of the people. Yet, she vehemently introduced herself as Slovenian. What makes a woman who doesn’t speak Slovenian, who briefly visited Slovenia once and has an English sounding name claim she’s just as 100% Slovenian as the girl who flew in two years ago? In my academic work 1 was already dealing with questions of identity in the context of migrations, but the theme never posed itself in such clear terms. For the people who migrate from Europe to the United States the Atlantic Ocean acts as a strong filter. It lets many things slip through it, but many are left on the European shore or misplaced on the way. It changes with time. Not the same things slipped though or were retained when the trip was made with a steamboat or with a jet plane. In every generation a different person emerges on the other side. The country she or he left is frozen in memory and doesn’t change through time. What are the elements that several generations regard as common so that people with very different life stories and experiences who left the country in very different times can see each other as Slovenian? It turned out to be a complex and intriguing question. And it started ... . . . IT, , , , .. . ., , . Minam M. Hladnik a beautiful intellectual, y professional and human adventure. Since a lot was written about male immigrants I focused on women and their experiences. I started writing letters. First to the Slovenian Women’s Union of America stating “My name is Mirjam M. Hladnik. I’m a researcher at the Institute for Slovenian Emigration Studies in Ljubljana. I currently live in New York with my family and work on my research project ‘Slovenian Women and their descendants in the United States and their role in preserving cultural heritage’. The main topic of the study is the oral history of Slovenian women in the U.S.A. concerning their roles, efforts and achievements in preserving Slovenian cultural heritage in the family, community, unions and organizations or professionally as teachers, journalists, activists or artists... I am interested in the life stories of immigrants, first, second and third generation and women who came to live in the States recently - of any age, background or marital status. The main method to document the life stories is not an interview but more a conversation, a story telling of women who are willing to talk and to share their experiences and views about the cultural heritage with me.” The reaction was overwhelming. I went to the cities where Slovenians traditionally established themselves as immigrant communities in the States and interviewed scores of women. With the help and the willingness of more then sixty women from SWUA and other American-Slovenian organizations, I recorded and collected an amazing amount of personal stories of migrants and their descendants, intimate memories, unforgettable emotions. In the time span of three years I gathered enough material in interviews, letters and documents for a comprehensive study that will eventually become a book. Left to right: director Hanna A. IV. Slak, sound expert Urška Kos with Angie Nico Branch 89, one of the featured American.': in the film Američanke. Shooting at the Polka Hall of Fame with Cecilia Dolgan and her daughter Ann Dolgan. In 2003 I met the Slovenian film director Hanna A.W.Slak. She was in New York for the screening of her first feature film, The Blind Spot. We talked about our work. I described my encounters with women of Slovenian descent all over the USA. Hanna immediately saw a documentary film. The idea was very attractive. As far as we could tell it would be the first documentary film that would focus on Slovenian women and their experiences as migrants. It took some time to find a producer, get some funding and find a team. But within a few months we were on the road between New York, Cleveland and LaSalle-Peru. We were filming with a handheld video camera on a very tight budget, within severe time constrains and a skeleton crew. The sound master Urška Kos had to perform miracles when the sound equipment was lost and shipped to Singapore instead of New York. The result made us all very happy. 100% Slovenian is a documentary that tells the story of three generations of women who immigrated to the United States over the 20th century. It’s a story of identities lost and found. The film tells stories of identities that are made of memories of voices of grandmothers and cooking recipes for exotic foods like potica and kislo zelje. Of experiences of shame and pride in elementary school when even the answer to where are you from was confused and confusing. Of nostalgia for the old country and love for the new one. Mostly of love. On a roof top in Brooklyn, NYC with Manca Klanjšček. The film was released in October 2005 under the Slovenian title “Američanke”. In Slovenia it was shown on national TV and was very well received. The students in high schools and at the University of Ljubljana have been watching and discussing it. Among other things it was nominated for Slovenian TV Award, Viktor 2005 for best documentary. It acquired a life on it’s own as a bootleg copy on the black market and will be officially released on DVD in spring of this year. - by Mirjam Hladnik SWUA Member Comments on the Documentary For many of us, it’s not so much living our legacy as it is learning more about our legacy. These are generalizations but, our native Slovenian members are often surprised to find that Slovenian descendants in the U.S. know so little about Slovenia and don’t know the language. The pressures of assimilation and acculturation our ancestors from the Ellis Island period faced in the U.S. often have to be explained. The immigrants to the U.S. during this time period, of any ethnicity, sacrificed greatly for future generations. This is a huge part of American history. We, in the U.S., have much to learn about what happened in Slovenia after our descendants left the homeland (life, history, events in Slovenia did continue on). Also, our immigrant ancestors had limited knowledge of Slovenia’s more extensive history due to lack of education or the age at which they immigrated. - by Lynn Zalokar Branch 93 Editor’s Note: We are currently talking with the filming crew in Slovenia about selling the DVDs of the documentary and we will keep members posted. 15 let slovenske državnosti Slovenia -15 Years of Statehood 25. junija 1991 je bila vsa Slovenija praznično razpoložena. Na demokratičnih volitvah izvoljeni slovenski parlament je razglasil neodvisno in samostojno državo -Republiko Slovenijo. S tem dejanjem so bile uresničene sanje, ki sojih potihem sanjali že naši dedje in očetje. Mnogi so v imenu iste ideje - za svoj narod - dali celo življenje. Žal je čistost te ideje prevečkrat skalila primes politike, ideologije in naše ljudi delila na različne bregove. Naslednje jutro, 26. junija 1991, so nas prebudili tanki jugoslovanske vojske. Zdelo seje, kot da smo se prebudili iz prelepih sanj. Kljub strahu pred vojno in smrtjo, kakršnega predvsem mlajši še nismo izkusili, smo takrat Slovenci prvič v svoji zgodovini ne glede na politično prepričanje stopili skupaj in ponosno dvignili glave. Nasprotnik ni računal na tako enotnost in pogum, zato so se njegovi načrti v borih desetih dneh razblinili in sanje so končno postale resničnost. Naučili smo se, da skupaj lahko zmoremo vse. Tega nauka se spominjamo tudi letos, ob petnajstem rojstnem dnevu samostojne Slovenije. Na pobudo Generalnega konzulata RS v Clevelandu bo slovenska skupnost, kije v tem mestu najštevilčnejša, ta jubilej obeležila s “Slovenskimi dnevi”. Začeli se bodo že predvidoma 5. junija, ko bosta v Mestni hiši odprti razstava likovnih del slovenskih ustvarjalcev iz Clevelanda in arhivska razstava o vlogi slovenskih izseljencev v Clevelandu pri slovenskem osamosvajanju, višek pa bo na Dan slovenske državnosti, 25. junija, ko bo v Narodnem domu na St. Clair Ave. slovesnost s koncertom vseh slovenskih zborov in gostovanjem Slovenskega okteta. Ta dva glavna dogodka bo spremljala še vrsta drugih (slovenski filmi, predavanja itd.), naj ob tej priložnosti pozovem tudi vse druge slovenske skupnosti v ZDA, da na svoj način - če se le da, s skupnimi akcijami - obeležijo ta praznik. Naj bodo glasni, naj nas sliši Amerika! Namen vsega tega početja je obuditi spomin na usodne in hkrati najpomembnejše dneve v slovenski zgodovini, ameriško javnost opozoriti na naš obstoj, pa tudi potrkati na lastno srce, ki je še vedno slovensko, tudi če naša usta morda ne znajo več jezika. Namen je dokazati, da skupaj lahko zmoremo vse... Drage rojakinje in rojaki, ob bližajočem se dnevu slovenske državnosti oziroma 15. rojstnem dnevu Republike Slovenije vam že zdaj iskreno čestitam in se vam iz srca zahvaljujem za vse, kar ste počeli in počnete v imenu svojih slovenskih korenin in iz ljubezni do matere (ali babice) Slovenije! Dr. Zvone Žigon, generalni konzul, s soprogo Ireno On June 25, 1991, all of Slovenia was joyous. The Slovenian Parliament, elected democratically, proclaimed an independent state, the Republic of Slovenia. Through this act, the hidden dreams of our grandparents and parents became a reality. In the pursuit of this dream, many had even given their lives, for unfortunately, the pure idea of independence was often spoiled by politics and ideology thus dividing our people. On the morning of June 26, 1991, we were awakened by the rumbling of Yugoslav tanks, as if to a nightmare from a beautiful dream. Despite the fact that fear of war and death was an unprecedented experience for the younger generations of Slovenians at the time, our people, for the first time in history, disregarded political beliefs and biases and banded together to raise our heads proudly. The enemy was crippled by this display of unity and bravery, and his plans simply faded in just ten days. The dream of independence was thus fulfilled. We Slovenians learned that, together, we can achieve anything. We remember this lesson even today, as we approach the celebration of Slovenia’s Fifteenth Birthday. Encouraged by the Consulate General of the Republic of Slovenia, the large Slovenian community in Cleveland will celebrate this anniversary with a month-long series of events entitled ‘Slovenian Days’. On June 5,2006, ‘Slovenian Days’ will kick off at Cleveland City Hall with an art exhibition of works by Cleveland-Slovenian artists, along with an archival exhibition illustrating the role of Cleveland-Slovenians in Slovenia’s emancipation. The central celebration will be held in the Slovenian National Home on St. Clair Avenue on June 25, 2006. The program will include a performance by each Cleveland-Slovenian chorus along with the headlining Slovenian men’s singing group from Ljubljana, Slovene Octet, which is traveling to Cleveland, in honor of this special occasion. Other events during ‘Slovenian Days’ will include a Slovenian film festival, lectures and other performances. The purposes of these efforts are many: To preserve the memory of those crucial days in Slovenian history, to share our culture with American society, and to warm our own hearts, which hold Slovenia close, even if our lips may not speak her language. Allow me to take this opportunity to challenge the numerous Slovenian communities in the United States to celebrate Slovenia’s Fifteenth Birthday in their own ways, and, if possible, while demonstrating a unified effort of your multi-organizational communities. Let us unite once again for a common cause, one of proud celebration. Let us be loud! America must hear us! Remember, together we can achieve anything. Dear fellow Slovenians, on the occasion of the Day of Slovenia’s Statehood and her Fifteenth Birthday, I heartfully congratulate and thank you all of your efforts, past and continued, in the name of your Slovenian roots and your love of our Mother (or Grandmother) Slovenia! Dr. Zvone Žigon, Consul General of Slovenia in Cleveland, with my wife Irena Heritage News Slovenian Gorečnost “If only I lived closer to the museum, 1 would be there every week to volunteer.” This is a quote I have heard so many times. I am sure there are members out there who have “thought the same thought” but did not verbalize the words. I also have a listing of members who have volunteered their talents, but distance is an issue. If only the Slovenian gorečnost (zeal) of those members could be harnessed. Truthfully, I have been perplexed as to how to get such dedicated members into this building. It has been a Slovenian zadrega (to be at a loss). And then I had a Slovenian predstava (idea). And it does not require entering the museum, packing suitcases, filling the gas tank, or driving. All one has to do is purchase one shirt, two shirts, three shirts from our Gift Shop and wear one for the world to see. In the few minutes it takes to place an order, you will have become a volunteer. You will be logging “donated time”, and you will have a wonderful shirt to wear. Most important is the psychological “open market” you will create each time you wear your shirt. Just don that shirt making a potica or strudel, frying Slovenian potatoes, or just vacuuming. Wear that shirt playing golf, shopping, or out walking. That shirt will catch the eye of a passersby. I guarantee everyone, men, women or children, will feel that Slovenian energija (energy). Try it, you’ll LOVE it. We live in the age of logos. Logos are meant to advertise. In fact, wearing that shirt with a Slovenian logo or crest is advertisement and recruitment at its best. What a way to tell the world who you are. It is the loudest voice you have. It advertises what you value, and what gives you joy! “I am a proud supporter of the Slovenian Heritage Museum.” And it gets better. Not only are you recruiting for the SHM and the SWUA, you are recruiting for the country of Slovenia. How many people have asked you, “Where is Slovenia?” Well, just wear that shirt and you will have the opportunity to tell them all about Slovenia being south of Austria, east of the Adriatic, north of Croatia, west of Hungary, and that the western edge abuts Italy. This brings to mind a question. Why are we members of this organization? I am answering for our members when I say; we honor those who have given us the opportunity to be Living a Legacy. It is a means of “keeping base” and not forgetting who we are. As different as family stories might be, we all have a common story. Our ancestors were Slovenian! So back to the shirts! Did you ever imagine that volunteering could have such an impact? Purchase a shirt and feel the Slovenian gorečnost (zeal). Best of all, the shirt comes with a guarantee to wash and wear well. The energy and pride it exudes will not fade no matter how many washings. I will personally be taking orders for any shirts ordered during the month of May. Just email me at marylou@swua.org or call me at this special phone number during the month of May: 251.968.4364. And if you just want to talk, that’s okay too. You are promised a friendly and prompt reply, and best of all, we get to connect! Now for the good news: The 25 th shirt purchased will be half price! The 50th shirt purchased will be free! Male members, order your shirt, take a photo and send it in! Here’s your chance to be a Slovenian-American celebrity! To je to, Mary Lou Maty Lou making potica wearing a women’s -size polo shirt. See back cover page for color pictures and sizes of shirts available. Members Of The Year Mary (Mitzi) Drobnick, Branch 3 Pueblo, Colorado Mitzi has been a member since 1989 and served as our President and Secretary. Mitzi was bom in Pueblo, Colorado to Slovenian immigrants Joe and Anna Pechek of Ljubljana. She is the youngest of fifteen children, twelve brothers and three sisters. Her dad was an accomplished accordion player, he played an accordion brought over from the “old country”, who along with his eldest son Joe, performed for local weddings and parties; never learning how to read music, they played from memory. Mitzi worked at the CF&I Steel Corp. offices for thirty-seven years and continues to be active in the Eagles 145 where she has served as Vice-President, President, Guard, and President of Retired Eagles. She has three daughters: Diane Drobnick, Doreen Drobnick-Martinez, and Dana Eccher and eight grandchildren which includes two sets of twin granddaughters, and one great-grandchild. They keep her quite busy. Mitzi visited Slovenia last summer with the KSKJ Lodge, where a warm greeting of women in traditional costumes passing out carnations and men playing accordions was a welcome and memorable site to the visitors. Mitzi is proud of her Slovenian heritage and claims “Everyone Loves a Slovenian!” Rose Luebke, Branch 12 Milwaukee, Wisconsin Rose Luebke was bom Rose Pucel on October 4, 1919 in Milwaukee Wisconsin to Josef and Teresia (Rozi) Pucel. Rose is the youngest of three sisters and grew up on the south side of Milwaukee, graduating from South Division High School in 1937. In January of2006 Rose celebrated the 60th anniversary of her marriage to Roy Luebke. Rose and Roy worked side by side in the family business, a small grocery store on Milwaukee’s south side, until closing the business in the 1960’s. They have two daughters, Pat and Linda, five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren II, Rose served as a Red Cross volunteer at St. Luke’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Today, Rose’s life is full of the many things she likes to do, lodge meetings, event planning, reading, cooking, gardening and spending time with her family, many of whom still live in the Milwaukee area. A real joy is having a grandson who grew up on the west coast attend graduate school at Marquette University in Milwaukee and to see him on a regular basis. Rose was surprised and honored by her nomination as Member of the Year. It is a well deserved recognition. Rose was elected Vice President of our Branch this year and last year she served as Auditor. She is part of the kitchen crew that cooks and serves the meal before each meeting and is on the Convention committee. Rose has been a member of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America for more than 57 years and is described by her fellow members as always helpful, cheerful and always showing quiet interest and care for those in the group. In 1939, she and a friend organized the first women’s Slovenian Bowling League in the area. She bowled for many years, traveling to tournaments throughout the Midwest and beyond. During World War r, OV Heritage Donations $200 Denise Bartlett $100 Perovshek family in memory of Julia Zgonc $50 Betty Ann and Jack Kolesari $50 Corinne Leskovar $50 Bev Menart ^ ^ Jean (Juricic) Herbst, Branch 20 JolietIllinois Jean is currently the Financial Secretary/Treasurer of our branch. Jean married Jerry Herbst in 1954 and together they raised three wonderful children: Rev. Robert Herbst, OFM, Conv., Renee Herbst, and Rita Bottomley. She also has one granddaughter, Elaine Bottomley. Renee, Rita and Elaine are all SWUA members as well as her sister Joyce Korst and brother-in-law Dick Korst. Currently, Jean spends her time as a speaker for organ donation with the Organ Transplant Support Group. Jean also is involved in craft projects making baby blankets for charitable groups as well as neck scarves for Operation Care Package to send to our troops overseas. Jean is active with CCW at St. Ambrose Parish in Crest Hill, Illinois as well as helping out with local school’s marching bands. As a proud Slovenian, Jean fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting Slovenia in 2001 with the SWUA tour. Julie Puzel, Branch 23 Ely, Minnesota Julie is one of those members who is always there when needed and volunteers for almost all committees. She is always such a pleasant worker. Julie was bom in St. Janž, Slovenia and still has 2 sisters and a brother living there. Julie keeps in close touch with her family and has been to see them eight times and last year one of her nephews came to visit her in Ely. In 1945 Julie and her husband John were married at the labor camp in Dachau, Germany - they came to the US in July 1946 and made there home in Ely, in “Chandler Location”, which was predominately Slovenian, both culturally and topographically. They raised a family of two sons and a daughter; Julie was widowed several years ago. Julie’s Slovenian culinary skills are outstanding, she has continued many of the traditions of her family, her pastries (strudels, poticas, and breads) are truly delicious. Thanks, Julie for being you! Julie will be honored at our Member of the Year dinner on May 7th. Barbara Pohar, Branch 24 LaSalle, Illinois Barb was not bom of Slovenian descent. She was raised in a very Polish household, but upon marrying John Pohar Jr. in 1961 she quickly began to follow many of the Slovenian traditions. John’s mother Josephine (Brekan) Pohar, a life time member of Branch 24 was very instrumental in teaching her many of the Slovenian traditions and how to “cook Slovenian” and now, Barb has passed them down to her children and grandchildren. Barb and John have four children: Debbie Pohar, Bonnie Prokup, John Pohar 111 and Cathy Lenkaitis and seven grandchildren, most of whom belong to Branch 24. Barb is exceptionally active in our branch; she has graciously opened her beautiful picturesque yard to us every year for our Slovenian garden party and never passes on a request to be on a hospitality committee. She is there enthusiastically helping at every meeting, party and convention with her many talents. Barb truly exemplifies the meaning of “Slovenian at heart”. Congratulation Barb you are a well deserving honoree. Dorothy Jamnick, Branch 35 Aurora, Minnesota Dorothy is a long time and loyal member of 35 years. Dorothy married Frank Jamnick in 1945 and together enjoy their daughter, Dorothy L Jamnick, now a retired school teacher living in Michigan. Dorothy is retired after 25 years with the U.S. Postal Service, as a letter carrier and has devoted her time to many organizations, holding offices in most for many years. She has held the post of Secretary-Treasurer in our branch for 17 years and for the Minnesota Association S WUA for 12 years. Presently she is serving as Vice President of Branch 35. Dorothy spends her time with Slovenian heritage organizations, civic projects, hospital volunteers, the Holy Rosary Resurrection Choir, “Happy Quilters”, Garden Club, American Legion Auxiliary, and “our chauffer”. We congratulate you, Dorothy, and thank you for your dedication. Carol Sherek, Branch 39 Biwabik, Minnesota Carol is the middle child of three bom to John and Jennie (Talus) Sherek of Biwabik, Minnesota and joined the SWUA in 1988. She attended Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota and the University of MN to be trained as a medical lab technician. In 1960, Carol married Duane Aho; they have two adult children, Kenneth Aho of Duluth, Minnesota and Kim Aho of Nevada City, California. Carol was employed as a medical lab technician, chemistry technician and also worked in quality control and research at several hospitals in the Metro area of Minnesota. After moving back to her hometown of Biwabik, Carol worked at Dyno Polymers, Virginia, Minnesota. Carol retired in 1992 and decided to learn to play the button box accordion and filled her hours playing our beloved Slovenian music. In 1997, she began performing her talents at the local nursing and group homes. Carol has entertained us at our State Conventions, our 75th Branch Jubilee and at several branch meetings and events. Love of her Slovenian heritage inspired Carol to study the Slovenian language which led her to making three trips to Slovenia and following the genealogy trail, she met several second cousins there. She is planning another trip this summer. Not only does she share her gift of music with us, she is also teaching water aerobics at our local YMCA. Carol, we salute you for being one of our friendly, happy, fun-loving Slovenians and we will honor you as Biwabik Branch 39 Member of the Year 2006, on May 7th, at the El-Roy Supper Club. Barbara Sitar, Branch 89 Oglesby, Illinois At 103 Vi years old, Barbara Sitar is inspiring not only for her age, but for her love for her family and religion; they are both the center of her being. She has four daughters, 19 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren and attributes her long life to her deep faith in God, hard work, clean living and her caring family. Her mind is sharp, she lives alone in her home and she still bakes cookies, cakes, pies and cooks delicious meals all from scratch. We are happy to have her as a member, as she is a remarkable woman with great Slovenian genes and love of her heritage. God bless you, Barbara. Tillie Kveder, Branch 43 Milwaukee, Wisconsin Tillie was bom in Stična, Slovenia in 1923 and met her late husband, Tony (Karlo) Kveder, after the war in a refuge camp in Italy. They immigrated to the United States in 1949 and were married in Joliet, Illinois on April 30,1950, then moved to their current home in Milwaukee. Tillie and Tony raised two beautiful daughters Camilla and Theresa and are blessed with three wonderful grandchildren, Toni, Nina, and Nicolas. Tillie and Tony loved to take trips together as well as with the whole family including the oldest granddaughter. They took numerous trips throughout Europe, always stopping in Slovenia to see their family and friends. Family has always been very important to Tillie; she is very involved in the lives of her daughters, grandchildren, family members, and friends. Tillie has always been a role model not only to those in her family but to those around her. She always stands up for what is right and does what she believes in. Even in the face of adversity and difficult times, she finds the positive and helps others do the same. She instills high morals and values in all who know her. Catherine “Cookie”Maxin, Branch 50 Euclid, Ohio Cookie has been a member of S WUA since 1991, along with her dear Mom, May Maxin (Member of the Year 2003) and sister, Joann who were the inspiration behind her becoming the Vice-President in 2003. Cookie has been a business analyst for Progressive Insurance for 18 years. In her spare time, baking is just one of Cookie’s passions; she loves to bake cookies, cakes, and kolacky. She is always looking for an opportunity to bake and to try new and old recipes. Another passion is traveling. She visited Slovenia in 2004, flies off to St. Louis or Dallas visiting friends several times a year and loves Disney World (she has been there 12 times and is always looking for the chance to go again!). Cookie’s dog and faithful companion, Georgie has been with her for 10 years and has added so much happiness and love to her life. All dogs seem to love Cookie-1 wonder if it is the treats she carries in her pocket or her sweet disposition? Being the middle of 5 children, Cookie loves her family and enjoys keeping the family traditions alive. Cookie is always trying to make people happy in whatever way possible and treasures the special moments spent with her nieces and nephew. One very special tradition among the Maxin family is Pierogi Day, which is celebrated every Good Friday. This is when all their family and friends gather together bringing either the pierogi dough or the fillings. Everyone pitches in as they roll, cut, fill, seal and boil many varieties. Once the dozens of pierogis are done, everyone begins to eat them with a Slovenian Salad. Hvala lepa for this Honor! First Midwest Bank Joliet, IL (815) 727-5222 RXC TEZAK FUNERAL HOME “First in Service Since 1908” Licensed Producer: Richard K. Tezak (815) 722-0524 American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) 1211 Plainfield Road Joliet, IL 60435 Frances Schultz, Branch 99 Lemont, Illinois Being named Member of the Year is not just about an award. It is an honor given to members of the SWUA that have shown a commitment to family values and raising their children while preserving and passing on our Slovenian language and culture. Frances Schultz, a life member of Branch 2 in Chicago and founding member of Branch 99 in Lemont has six children: Mary Ann, Barb, Bill, Diane, Linda and Laurie. All five girls have been members since birth. Each of her six granddaughters started her life as a member as well. Fran and her daughters have supported the Bunco and other activities at St. Stephen’s parish for many years before bringing that traditional fundraiser to Lemont’s Branch 99. Frances and several daughters have traveled to Slovenia multiple times following in the footsteps of grandma and very active SWUA member Fanny Zibert. Fran and her husband Ray have a “Slovenian room” in their home for all of their souvenirs and photos from their trips and Slovenian music can always be heard at family parties and Slovenian is still spoken at home. MaryAnn and Laurie have become potica experts and son Bill has become the family strudel maker. On any given weekend, Fran and Ray can be found at the Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont or a Slovenian picnic at the Franciscan Fathers with their family - a strong example to their grandchildren of what’s in every SLOVEnian. Dorothy Jerneycic, Branch 100 Southern California Dorothy has lived in California for 40 years, but her roots go back to the Slovenian and Croatian Midwest, having been born in East Cleveland and raised in the Detroit area. Her father and grandfather were active in SNPJ in Pennsylvania and Ohio during the 1920’s and beyond. In her childhood years, Dorothy could speak some Croatian with her maternal greatgrandmother, but being a second generation American, never really learned the languages that her parents knew so well. Dorothy’s mother lived for a while near Karlovac and her paternal grandfather came from the Planina region in what is now Slovenia. Dorothy was fortunate enough to be able to visit both villages during her trip to the former Yugoslav area in 2001. At that time she had the opportunity to write about her experiences in the Slovenian Genealogical Society newsletter. About this same time, Dorothy became connected to the Slovenian and Croatian organizations in Southern California and joined the SWUA, the SNPJ, and the CFU. These organizations have helped her to become closer to her roots and at the same time she has made many friends through these contacts. She especially has enjoyed the “Vinska Trgatev” and “Pust” celebrations in Fontana and San Francisco. Community service is Dorothy’s life, she serves selflessly for the Mater Dolorosa Center in Sierra Madre, The Pasadena Playhouse, and other church and school related programs. As a retired high school teacher, she was asked to serve as one of the SWUA Scholarship judges. She truly enjoys reading about the accomplishments of talented young people and although she has no children of her own she encourages her niece and nephews to learn more about their heritage by enrolling them in the ethnic societies that she has discovered to be so valuable. Dorothy Jerneycic can usually be found at the center of animated conversations with young people who attend Southern California events, but she is also the person who will be first to offer a ride to a senior who would like to attend an event and has no other means of transportation. She is ready with a thoughtful note or a humorous interjection whether it is via email or in person. We are very happy to claim this generous and outgoing person as one of our own. Submitted by Jean Koci with details from Dorothy Jerneycicajkoci@cox.net Peter Mejač, Branch 103 Washington, DC Peter is the son of Mary Mejac, who has served as secretary of the branch since its inception in 1965. Peter became a member in 2001 and has been an active and valued participant in the activities of the branch, but has also assisted in many capacities before joining. He is always ready to pick up and deliver supplies, help decorate halls for social events, place tables and chairs or run errands of any sort - always with a friendly smile. Peter, his wife Sarah, and their three children (Nicholas, Andrew, and Andrea) are all branch members as well as Peter’s father, Conrad, sisters Helen and Maria, five nieces and nephews and father-in-law, James Cesnik. Peter runs a local landscape business and offers snow removal service in the winter. Peter graduated from St. John’s College High School as a first lieutenant and received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. He loves sports and is passing this love on by coaching his children’s teams. He has visited Slovenia several times and speaks fondly of those trips and the family members he met while there. Congratulations to all our Members of the Year! In Memory of Mary Staut, 1919 - 2005 Mary Francis Volovsek was bom May 28, 1919 to Frank and Anna. She married Janvid J. “Vitko” Staut in 1940 in Willard, Wisconsin, they had three children. She was an active member of SWUA, Slovenian Singers, Catholic Council of Women and the Willard Homemakers. Gardening was one of her favorite hobbies. Mary was a past president of Branch 102 and was instrumental in reviving the organization to regional and national recognition. Her enthusiasm and organizational skills were evident in many facets of her life. She is remembered most for her steadfast efforts in preserving the Slovenian language and traditions in Willard and the surrounding areas. She and her husband traveled to Slovenia several times, maintaining close contact with family and friends. After her graveside services, Frank Pakiz played the polkas “Jaz Pa Ti Pa Židana Marela” and “Adijo” softly on his accordion as red carnations were plucked from a bouquet on her casket and given to the grieving family members. We miss this energetic woman who did so much to perpetuate the Slovenian culture she so loved. We of Branch 102 do our best to follow her examples. - Rose Pakiz Home From Slovenia, Handcrafts, Gifts, and Heritage Slovenian Cookery Cookbook tl • it |< j /-• \/ Overioo classic and authentic I rl IS Holiday, (jive Your Sloveniandishesanddesserts Family and Friends Unique Gifts Handcrafted Exclusively from Slovenia Acir cno Slovenia Map Clock «3 iv run Celebrate Slovenia’s independence frtWTAfT fnnF and heritage with artist Andreja Skulj's V.UnilMl.1 V.UDC handcrafted, ceramic, map clock #411 to Receive *4 off Next Order cobalt-crystal vase from , .. , Kreativ, Rogaška Slatina Shop securely on-line at www.HomeFromSiovenia.com Or call (203) 775-0853, or email lnfo@ Home From SI o ve n i a.com for our Free Catalog Bylaws Amendments/Revisions Important - Help Wanted - Important The bylaws of an organization can be considered a contract between the members and the organization. The basic concepts of bylaws include the rights and responsibilities of members individually and meeting together as a group; rules that the organization considers so important that they cannot be changed at the whim of the members at a single meeting and, for the most part, cannot be suspended. Every four years at our national convention we have the opportunity, after considerable review, to amend/revise the bylaws to reflect the intentions of the organized membership. It is time once again to hear from the membership regarding bylaws which may be problematic, outdated, vague or restrictive as we provide the authority to our national officers and board of directors to, among other duties, oversee the original burial insurance policies, continue to keep the membership connected through our official organ, Zarja The Dawn, and also to provide guidelines and formats to branch officers in the governing of our branch meetings and state conventions. A bylaws committee is being formed with Denise Bartlett (National 2nd Auditor) as chairperson. Denise is looking for interested and/or experienced members in parliamentary/ bylaws procedures. The meetings will be held by telephone, e-mail and U.S. mail and the only compensation is “satisfaction”, or maybe postage. Committee members do not have to be delegates at the National Convention, but of course, there will be committee members present to respond to the convention attendees. The National Board has heard from branch members over the past four years who feel that a few areas of the bylaws need to be reviewed. If members or branches want to have a voice in this procedure - the next several months is the time to review, discuss, and submit ideas for consideration. It is suggested that all members become familiar with the SWUA bylaws. Your branch President and Secretary have copies. Members may also go to www.swua.org to print a copy. Each issue of the Zarja from the July/August ‘06 issue through the March/ April 2007 issue will highlight sections of the current bylaws, and will include concerns and suggestions received thus far. In addition to committee volunteers, Denise is asking for feedback regarding suggested revisions, information from members regarding the reasons/history of certain sections, lessons learned from past SWUA history regarding the bylaws - in short, members are urged to SPEAK UP The committee will consider every submission of information before presenting suggested formal (final) bylaw changes for all members to read in the May/June ’07 Zaija, review/consider/discuss at their branch meetings and entrust the delegates at the June 2007 Convention to determine with their vote. Please send all correspondence to: Denise P. Bartlett, 7902 W. Howard Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53220-1612, or telephone 414-327-4990 or e-mail denisepbartlett@wi.rr. com Newly Released CD Ethnic Strains of the Singing Slovenes 1. Hišca ob Cest Stoji 2. Jaz pa Pojdem na Gorensko 3. Tiha Noči 4. Židana Marela (Silk Umbrella) 5. Terezinka 6. Pod Mojim Okencem (Pojdi Zmenoj) 7. Oj Marička Pegla 8. Moja Dekla 9. Slovenia 10. Živili Brača 11. Waltz Medley: Ti Neznaš Što Je Lubav, Ne Planince, Tam U Dolu 12. Živio Slovenci 13. Ej, Prijatelj 14. Sailor 15. Ko Psi Zalajajo (Barking Dog) 16. Kukavica 17. Krčmarica 18. Zlati Časi 19. Moj Očka Ima Konjička Dva (Two Horses) A >7* iSmd Jngtng ' Covenes To order send check for $15.00 plus $2.00 for postage. Make checks payable to Singing Slovenes Send to: Pat Snidarich 3910 Stebner Road Hermantown, MN 55811 (218) 729-6532 Email: Snidelindu@vahoo.com Editors Note: Singing Slovenes will be performing all weekend at the 2007 National Convention. 25th National Convention Get FIRED up! See What the BUZZ is All About Mark your calendars now for June 21 - 24,2007 to attend the 25th National Convention in Utica, Illinois. This is a great location, situated less than two hours from Chicago and Milwaukee, six hours from Minneapolis, and five hours from Cleveland. It is at the crossroads of many of our branches in the Midwest, which makes up % of our membership. Starved Rock Lodge will be the headquarters. Imagine a place of natural beauty. A place nestled within 2,630 acres of thick forests, 18 lush canyons and sparkling waterfalls. A place where everyone can experience adventure or tranquility. Go to: www.starvedrocklodge.com. In addition to the convention we will celebrate our 80th Anniversary of SWUA on Saturday evening. With important dignitaries and entertainment from Slovenia, along with the Singing Slovenes - this will be an evening you won’t want to miss. The convention is open to delegates and guests of all ages; however we ask that branches be very careful when choosing your delegates. A packet was recently mailed to your branch leader. Look carefully at the guideline for ideas on who to choose. Remember, the future of SWUA rests on the shoulders of these delegates. Calendar Of Events 2006 May 21-11 a.m. Mass, followed by lunch and party at Slovenian Cultural Center, honoring Branch 99 Lemont, IL Member of the Year Thursday, June 15 - “Taste of Slovenia” Annual Branch 24 Picnic at Pulaski Park in LaSalle, IL Sunday, July 16 - Zveza Day Picnic at Lemont, IL Sunday, September 10 - Wisconsin State Convention at Sacred Heart Parish in Milwaukee, WI Sunday, October 1 - IL/IN Regional Convention at St. Stephen’s Church in Chicago and Mayfields Sunday, October 1 - Slovenian Heritage Festival at the SNPJ Farm Kirtland, OH Sunday, October 22 - OH-MI Regional Convention at St. Lawrence Church and Slovenian Home on East 80th, Cleveland, OH For those not coming as delegates we have an exiting lineup prepared. All guests regardless of age are welcome to join meals, activities and can attend the business portion. Children will participate in the opening of the convention and then off to Camp Heritage. This is a camp to discover more about their heritage and have the opportunity to perform at the 80th Anniversary Gala. We have the first SWUA Golf Outing. You can join Don, the columnist from Zarja who writes the column “Men in a SWUA World” and spend the afternoon on the greens or in the clubhouse! If you have any questions, want to get more involved with the planning -please let us know. Sincerely, Bonnie Pohar Prokup Nancy Henkel Co-Chairperson Co-Chairperson 815-223-9596 815-223-2453 Appreciation Dinner - Lemont, Illinois May 28th The annual dinner in appreciation for the loyalty and support of members is Sunday, May 28th. It will also be a special day for tribute to our dear Fr. Vendelin Spendov, for his many contributions to the Slovenian community and the world of Slovenian sacred music. In all the years since he came to Chicago and Lemont, he has been devoted to expanding the musical knowledge of our choirs and Slovenian musical groups. “He brought the highest forms of music into our lives”, was a comment made recently. Members are asked to please pass on this information to singers and musicians who were a part of Fr. Vendelin’s long history with us and invite them to attend the dinner. For non-members, the cost is $15.00 for adults. For more information call 1-630-243-0670. Slovenian on the Move The Servite Friars of the United States Province confirmed Fr. Paul Novak O.S.M. in Office as the Prior Provincial of the United States Province. For the next three years Fr. Paul is the Superior of all Servite Friars in the Province. The Province includes communities of Friar Servants of Mary in Illinois, California, Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico and delegations in South Africa and Australia. Fr. Paul is the son of Rudy and Frances Novak (Branch 16). A congratulation to all Slovenians as Fr. Paul is the first Servite of Slovenian descent to become Provincial. Branch Reports Poročila Podružnic BRANCH 1 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin A box of prizes arrived from the Home Office for winning the 2005 membership campaign. It was a nice surprise of various items. We decided to raffle off the items so that all members would have a chance to enjoy. Our “Members of the Year” meeting will be held on Thursday, May 25, 2006. Full details will be provided in the church bulletin or call President, Aggie Gruenke. We continue to support the SWUA Scholarship Fund by contributing S10 for each recently deceased member. This month we lost two of our members, Amelia Mueller on March 3rd and my dear sister, Victoria Sullivan on March 18th, who will be deeply missed. 1 recently met a speech therapist, Gail Whitlock, at a Sheboygan nursing home where she happened to see a copy of Zarja at a resident’s bedside. Being of Slovenian descent, she leafed through it and while reading the Willard, Wisconsin Branch 102 report, she noticed her grandmother’s name: Vickie Krultz! What a small world! We talked about SWUA and of course I mentioned membership. 1 promised her a copy of Zarja to keep her interested in learning more about her Slovenian heritage. Let us remember to keep our homebound in our thoughts and prayers. Best wishes to all, ANGIE FRITZ BRANCH 2 - Chicago, Illinois We are celebrating our 80th Anniversary and will be honoring members who are age 80 and older as Members of the Year at our May 2151 meeting. A catered dinner will be served and there will be many surprises, please try to attend. Call Dolores or Fran for more info. Please mark your calendars: June 18th: Picnic Rally and Flag Day and July 16th: Zveza day picnic at Lemont, Illinois, chances will be mailed. On October lsl we will host the IL/IN State Convention. The Mass & Convention will be held at St. Stephen’s, Chicago and dinner will follow at Mayfields (Damen & Archer Aves). Hope all our out of town members will make arrangements to attend, it will be a big day for SWUA. The following members were in the hospital, but we are happy to report they are at home: Helen Cukale, Chris Pirman, Mary Reich, Jeanette Frontier, Katie Buol, Jenny Worth and Matt Buol; keep them in your prayers. Keep our Troops in your thoughts and prayers for their safety. Love, DAISY BRANCH 3 - Pueblo, Colorado The March wind and winter cold blew across Pueblo, Colorado. Members attended the March meeting in warm jackets and bright scarves wiggling like kite tails in the sharp breeze. The Board of Directors decided that “Welcome Letters” should be sent to new members, Annette Charron, Nicholas Chavez, Stephanie Chavez and Maureen Crocker. The letter contained a brief history of Branch 3 along with our meeting schedule. Future Event: Mother/Woman of the Year Luncheon will be May 2, 2006 at La Renaissance Restaurant. Mother of the Year, Mitzi Drobnick has consented to give a program presentation; but the topic is a secret until May Party Day. Officers Margaret Cullen and Eileen Kaplan will hostess. Best wishes to all branches from colorful Colorado, EILEEN KAPLAN BRANCH 5 - Indianapolis, Indiana Our members have been very busy working on the wonderful restoration and celebration of Holy Trinity Church’s 100th year. Thanks to all who donated time, talent or treasure, I hope you all made time to join in the celebrations. Our junior members have been very busy also. Erika Pell keeps busy performing in plays in the Indianapolis area, Anna Fon visited Washington DC with her 8th grade class and our newest member is Renae, the new daughter of Barbara Mohr Freisenhann in Austin, Texas. Members, how about enrolling your new daughter/granddaughter in our branch? Don’t forget our May meeting and raffle is Saturday May 6th. Mass at 4:00 p.m. and a pitch-in at Bockhold Hall to follow. Come join in the fun! As always, your friends and family are also welcome! 1 know that I ask for prayers for our members and our officers, but I am especially asking that you keep my daughter Katie and her husband Pat in your prayers, Pat is now in Qatar in the Mid East. Please keep them and all servicemen and their families in your prayers. God Bless, PHYLLIS BRANCH 12-Milwaukee, Wisconsin Since I did not write an article for the January/February Zarja, I was quite surprised to have members note the absence of an article for our branch. Our branch has again felt the loss of two of its members since the first of the year, Ludy Babich (January 5"’) and Mary Bucovnik, (February 12th - the last of our charter members at age 93). We certainly will miss both of these wonderful people. Since no meeting was planned for January, our February meeting was postponed as Mary Bucovnik’s funeral was on our meeting date, the majority of our members attended the memorial service and mass. Our Convention Committee met in January as planned and preliminary arrangements for the State Convention have been made. The Wisconsin State Convention will be held on September 10th, at Sacred Heart Parish, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. More detailed information will be forthcoming, but please note that the entire convention will take place at Sacred Heart Church and Hall. SO GET THE BUSES reserved and join us, you will have a wonderful day! Our branch meeting in March was somewhat of a surprise, not only did we have Žgance, Zelje, with fresh sausages, (prepared by our combined cooks, Virginia Strukel and A1 Jelinek) but we had the pleasure of the company of our State President, Josephine Janezic, National Vice President Betty Ann Kolesari and National Second Auditor, Denise Bartlett, who joined us for lunch and our March meeting. Denise brought us up-to-date on some of the national events and plans and Betty Ann, as well as Josephine stressed the importance of new memberships to assure the continuance of the SWUA. STAVIA DOBERSEK & FRAN REMSHAK (414-541-5116) BRANCH 13 - San Francisco, California Spring is here, new beginnings! Our branch seems to be doing very well and happy. We had a delightful March meeting for St. Patrick’s Day. Beverly Jackson bought a corned beef and cabbage lunch and our ladies provided the green jello, “Slovenian” Irish Soda bread, dessert and table decorations which included a singing and dancing leprechaun. We have made our meetings a joy and would love to see more members attend. I would like to welcome new members, Frances Chilcoat, Rose Gandy, Renee Kiml and Marian Luoma. Please join us at our meeting, you will enjoy it. We will not be having our Mother’s Day brunch this year. We have decided on a luncheon/raffle at Caesar’s restaurant in San Francisco, to honor all our members. It will be June 11th at 12:00. We will be raffling our annual handmade quilt and many wonderful prizes. It is our only effort to raise money for our branch and it enables us to pay our rent. Please support us! For details, contact Louise Pertrusich 415-468-1674. Let’s make this our most successful venture yet. Caesar’s has marvelous food and we hope to fill the restaurant. I am sad to report the death of Evelyn Brandi. She supported many of our functions. Condolences to her family. On a happy note, birthday wishes to: Ann Fabian (95 years), Sophie Troya, Mary Copp, Marie Fir, Laura Frick, Diana Gremmett, Karen Jensen, Ivanka Lukezic, Marjorie Schmidt and Ste ven Stimach. I must commiend Debbie Pohar, Bonnie Prokup and Corinne Leskovar for the latest issue of Zarja. It is beautifully done and very informative. I am truly impressed. Thank you ladies. The best time to do something is between yesterday and tomorrow. BEVERLY JACKSON BRANCH 14 - Euclid, Ohio Time certainly flies, especially for a new reporter who wants to meet deadlines. When I was writing my first article in January (due February 1st, our spring Mother’s Day dinner on May 2nd was the furthest thing from my mind considering all the snow on the ground. I never noticed that the next deadline was April 1st and the article was for the Zarja May-June issue, so by the time you read this article, our Mother’s Day dinner will be over. Please accept my apologies and I will try to meet deadlines better in the future. Our Mother’s Day dinner on May 2nd featured a delicious meal by Sophie Mazi. Stana Grill once again took care of the reservations, and I marvel at how organized she always is, taking reservations and arranging seating for over 80 people with nary a hitch. Meals are always paid for at the door, and everything always comes out perfect to the last penny, thanks to Stana and our responsible guests. Our honorees at the Mother’s Day dinner were all the members, especially our ladies in the nursing homes, Pauline Krall, Ann Kozlevčar, Anna Gacnik, and Mary Verh. We truly missed them. BRANCH 16 - South Chicago, Illinois Happy birthday to Clara Saviano who is celebrating her 95th on May 5th; please don’t try to blow out all the candles. We will all drink a toast to you at the Luncheon on Thursday May 1 llh being held at Just Jim’s, 13191 S. Brainard Ave. Hegewisch, Illinois at 1:30 p.m. For reservations please contact Mary Jane Strus 768-5127 or Mary Therese Ehnat 646-5758, price of luncheon is $12.00. We are honoring all our members this year, especially those who worked so hard at the IL/IN State Convention last October. On May 21st, St. Florian KSKJ and Branch 16 are joining together to honor Marija Pomagaj, Our Lady of Brezje at St. George Church. Rosary and Litany at 8:30 a.m., Mass and Benediction to follow. Coffee and rolls will be served in the hall to all who wish to attend. At our March meeting Frances Novak audited the books and I gave a financial report. We celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with corned beef sandwiches. Welcome to new member Rose Tomasich. Our June meeting has been changed to June 17,h. Hostesses will be Connie Saviano, Frances Novak and Vicky Putzel. No meetings are scheduled for July or August. SYLVIA SPRETNJAK BRANCH 20 - Joliet, Illinois At the March meeting, Marge Corcoran was picked for the accumulative attendance award. However, she was not present. At the April meeting, we heard about “Wellness for Seniors” from Jackie Mansholt, Director of Wellness and Promotion at Silver Cross Hospital. May 16, Tuesday we will have our final meeting of the year. We will be honoring Jean Herbst, our secretary, as “Member of the Year” at the dinner banquet. Fr. Tom Paul will read a special tribute to Our Lady of Brezje. Branch 20 Scholarship Awards will be presented. Thank you Josephine Rositch for your donation to our scholarship fund. Our branch will have a booth at St. Joseph’s Fair on June 24-25, come and enjoy Congratulations to Joe and Mary Babich on twin grandchildren named Elizabeth and Joseph; Nicholas Pucel, USF student on the community service, “Exploring Joliet” on Ch. 6; Sue Regis on her handmade glass artifacts; grandparents Mary Kay and Richard Demick on daughter, Mary Lee’s adoption of Robert and Grace from Guatemala; Sister Marlene Ambrose who celebrates her 60 year Jubilee on June 17,2006; the First Communicants and Graduates of 2006. May 7 - March of Dimes - Please come to the 6 mile “Walk America” beginning at Knights of Columbus on Jefferson St. Walkers contact Jonita Ruth for more information - 726-6990. We hope and pray for a good recovery for Jo Lustik, Vicki Hodgman, Joyce Korst, and Jo Tezak. Prayers and sympathy to the family of Marie Kanta whose husband passed away, and Margaret Louch who lost her grandson Ben Louch. Happy Mother’s and Father’s Day to our mothers, fathers and grandparents. “The memory of my mother will always be a blessing to we.”...Thomas Edison Branch 20 will celebrate 80 years next year. Let’s get more new members! Have an enjoyable summer SISTER MARLENE AMBROSE 815-723-1499 BRANCH 24 - LaSalle, Illinois On March 16,h we held our first meeting of the year, 21 members and 3 guests enjoyed the delicious refreshments served with a St. Patrick’s Day theme and Connie Kotar was the lucky winner of a beautiful Shamrock cake made by Martha Lushina. Rosemary McLaughlin was sworn in as our new Treasurer while the remaining slate of officers remained the same: Loretta Story, President; Linda Struna, Vice-Presi-dent; and Mary Ann Pieczynski, Secretary. Plans for our Spring Luncheon began to take shape. There will be a noon luncheon on Thursday, May 18th at Mario’s Maples in Peru. Reservations are to be made by Monday, May 15. Our summer picnic is getting bigger every year, so this year we are having it at the Pulaski Park Shelter in LaSalle. It will be held on Thursday, June 15 at 6 o’clock. It’s truly a feast since everyone brings an authentic Slovenian dish to pass and their own beverages. Guests are welcome! We were pleased to welcome a special guest, Angie Nico from Oglesby’s branch 89, because we were able to view the Slovenian documentary “Američanke” and she was featured in it wearing her traditional Slovenian costume. The producers did a marvelous job in making this extremely interesting, very moving and sometimes humorous documentary. We enjoyed it so much that no one made a sound for approximately fifty minutes (a record for us!). Easter will have passed us by the time you read this but with it brings Spring - new growth, new life, new hope -what a wonderful time of year! And, I must add, it is obvious that all the birds got married in March! Until next time, may your hearts be filled with peace and love. LORETTA STORY BRANCH 32 - Euclid, Ohio On March 15th we held our first meeting for 2006 at the Euclid Public Library. It is with pleasure that I introduce myself, Lauren Penko as the new branch Reporter. It is an honor to follow in the footsteps of a great lady and reporter, and long time acquaintance, Dorothy Lamm. Dorothy has decided to “enjoy” and it’s time for someone else to take on the reporting duties. It’s a tall order to fill but with Dorothy’s gracious offer for help and guidance, I look forward to a fun job. It was decided at our meeting a new branch roster would be available to all of the members. Information was shared about the Fall Festival slated for October 1st. We had a cake to celebrate birthday greetings to our winter and early spring birthday members. Good health and a speedy recovery to those unable to attend because of illness. The April meeting was cancelled, since our usual time and meeting room were unavailable. The next meeting is Wednesday May 17lh at 6:30 p.m. We will have coffee and dessert and celebrate our wonderful mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers. Our picnic will be the center of our June meeting. See you there. LAUREN PENKO BRANCH 35 - Aurora, Minnesota Coming off of a polar chill, we met on Feb. 19th, with happy faces entering the room. It was great to have Ann Orazem back with us. After opening the meeting with a prayer, we discussed donating a copy of the Revised Women’s Glory Cookbook to our local library. All members agreed to this. We also talked about our upcoming Heritage Festival and urged members to attend the next meeting. Our hostesses, Betty Rokser and Helen Simonich, served a President’s Day dessert, cherry pie and ice cream. We then enjoyed the fun of our Dime auction and added to our “coffer” a significant amount of money Greetings and Good Health to all our Sister Branches. ANITA M. VOVK 218-229-3202 BRANCH 39 - Biwabik, Minnesota My first meeting as President of Branch 39 and where am I? - celebrating our heritage in Oakbrook, Illinois. On the weekend of Feb. 3rd, Bob Doszak brought us another unforgettable weekend of ethnic music, what a weekend! Many SWUA members from the Iron Range branches were dancing, listening and renewing friendships. Next year the Illinois Polkafest will be held in Naperville, come join us. Our own talented button box entertainer was picked as our Member of the Year; Carol Sherek will be honored at a dinner on May 7th at the El-Roy Supper Club. Congratulations Carol, we are glad to have you on our team. In my absence, Eleanor Indihar, Vice President presided and her daughter, Mary Osmundson joined our branch. We also welcomed new members Nina Walker and Bailey Ribich (junior member). Our April meeting brought us Phyllis Globokar Nisen and former Biwabik resident, Marija Stojakovich Holcomb, now residing in California. Nelly Hurley was reported as a transfer member from Branch 30. One branch member transferred to Branch 109. We will miss you, Jean, but we know you are still a “sister member”. Welcome aboard ladies, we hope this is the beginning of new growth for our branch. We are all saddened with the loss of long time member Molly Zamlen. We honored Molly with our ritual rosary recitation. Molly will be missed. Vida Lanari and Maria Ferkul attended the Heritage Festival meeting in Chisholm on March 25th. Unfortunately the Festival was cancelled for lack of interest. The Chisholm branch agreed to host the September Minnesota convention. Branch members are working on a fund-raiser with an Absent Tea letter. A linden tea bag is enclosed and we hope to add funds to our treasury. ROSEMARY RIBICH rribich@lcp2.net BRANCH 40 - Lorain, Ohio Dear Corinne, I did not write in the last issue of Zarja, so let me first of all send a big Thank You from me personally and from all our members to you for all the hard work and dedication you have put into each issue of our Zaija over all these many years. It was truly a labor of love and we wish you well in whatever you choose to do in the future. Love and many blessings to you! To Debbie and Bonnie, congratulations on your beautiful and colorful first issue. Great job! Calling all members, calling all members! We need you. There were very few at our last meeting but we shared a few pleasant hours. Our thanks to Agatha who brought a dessert which we enjoyed. You will be contacted about the time and place of our May luncheon. Let’s have a good attendance as in former times. “Ljubi Maj, Krasni Maj”. Spring is here. It’s wonderful to do all those little chores that need doing outside. I hope you all had a blessed Easter. And to all mothers I wish A Happy Mother’s Day. A final reminder to our members, please come to our May luncheon. STEPHANIE POLUTNIK BRANCH 42 - Maple Heights, Ohio Plans for the 2nd SWUA Fall Festival are in full swing. Marge Church, Jackie Albers and I attended chairwoman; Rose Mary Toth’s meeting in Beachwood. Rose Mary successfully chaired the 1st festival in 2004. The event will again be held at SNPJ farm in Kirtland on Sunday, October 1st. More on this in succeeding issues. We send our condolences to Fran Fedor in Florida on the loss of her mother, Millie Franczak Prhne. Millie was the wife of the late Stanley Prhne who was instrumental in directing Fran to Branch 42 through our Zarja articles. Once again we have lost a long-time member by the passing of Betty Kosak-Gawor. For you younger members Betty was the youngest sister of Franca Legan and Tonka Kastelic and resided in North Carolina. Betty’s daughters, Betty Ann Harr and Marjorie Lostoski are loyal members of Branch 42 and have also enrolled their daughters. We extend our sincerest sympathy to this deeply fraternal family and all the Kastelic and Legan relatives. May she rest in heavenly peace. Our next meeting at Maple Heights Library is Saturday, May 13th at 11:00 a.m.. Our annual mass for living and deceased members is Sunday, May 21st at 10:00 a.m. Mass at St. Lawrence Church. A lunch at Sterle’s following the mass is optional. Happy birthday to May and June celebrants and a happy Mother’s Day to all our mamas and a happy Father’s Day to all our atas. Adijo LIL SADOWSKI 216-398-4367 LRSadow@aol.com Remember www.swua.org BRANCH 43 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin It was bitterly cold, but about 40 members attended a breakfast/luncheon meeting on February 19. It was “Dutch Treat” where everyone paid their own way and all enjoyed this idea for a meeting. Many thanks to Yvonne Khaldy for the packet of greeting cards she gave to all present. Our meal was delicious and after eating and socializing, a short meeting was held. It was good to see members who are usually unable to attend our regularly scheduled meetings. Congratulations to Tillie Kveder who has been selected as our Member of the Year. She will be honored at a luncheon on Saturday, May 13, 2006, at Benny’s Cafe, 5354 S. 27th St. at noon. The cost is $15.00 and all are most cordially welcome. Come and celebrate with Tillie and the rest of our members. Please call Josephine Janezic 414-545-0691 for information and reservations. Two new members were introduced at our February meeting. They are Tom Gehm and Karl Dovnik, Jr. Welcome. Congratulations to Mary Martino who turned 90 years young on March 10. Mary is a zealous worker and an avid supporter of all of our branch activities. She was our financial secretary for many years. Mary, may you have many blessings on this day. Vesel rojstni dan. Our March meeting was well attended and all enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by the members celebrating their birthdays. Our guest was Fannie Smole, President of the USPEH Organization (United Slovenes to Preserve our Ethnic Heritage). She explained how the group started and what their purpose is. The latest edition of the Zarja was truly a beautiful issue and the colorful cover was certainly eye catching. Congratulations to our editors. MARY BREGANT BRANCH 47 - Garfield Heights, Ohio Hi Everyone. Our Mother’s Day Luncheon is on May 6th at Dimetri’s on Snow and Broadview Roads at 1:00 p.m. Our Mass for living and deceased members is June 25lh at St. Lawrence Church at 10:00 a.m. Let Olga Dorchak know if you will be coming to the luncheon 330-468-7989. Plans are underway for our Fall Festival on October Is1 at the SNPJ Farm in Kirtland and the Ohio-Michigan Convention on October 22nd. We are looking for ideas and donations of baskets for both events. Birthday wishes go out to all our May birthdays: Sky Hall and Katherine Wallace and June Members: Elsie Lawrencic, Mary Skul, Jane A. Spellacy and Therese Turner. Best wishes to all. Hope everyone has a Happy Mother’s Day. KATHERINE WALLACE BRANCH 50 - Eucid, Ohio We had a fine attendance of 20 members at our March 22 meeting and everyone wore a touch of green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Several of our members will be on their way to Joliet, Illinois April 21-23 for the “Discover Joliet” outing. The 75th anniversary of our branch will take place this November along with our Christmas Party. Happily, we will have some charter members sharing many memories and nostalgia of the early beginnings. Congratulations to Cookie Maxin, Vice President, chosen as “Member of the Year”. Cookie expressed her gratitude for this special honor, especially since she follows in the footsteps of her late mother. The branch will celebrate with her at Dubrovnik Gardens, Eastlake, Ohio on May 17,h. We invite your support on this special day for Cookie by calling Fran Kajfez at 1.440.944.3697. Get well soon to our members, Joan Fellenstein, out with fractured elbow, Mary Wolff, Mary Sterling, Stella Koporc in rehab, Ernestine Jevec and Jennie Arko. Additional congratulations are due to Anne Arhar and Ivanka Matic who were honored by Fr. Joseph Boznar, pastor of St. Vitus Church (see photo) for their many volunteer efforts over the years. Birthday greetings go to Alice Signorelli, Cookie Maxin, Dorothy Ann Winter, Anne Arhar, Rosemary Marin and Fran Kajfez. Another meeting was held to plan the 2nd annual Fall Festival (Sunday, October 1st at the SNPJ Farm in Kirtland, Ohio). Details include display tables, Chinese auction, Art Guild display, and many other surprises, Slovenian food and a polka mass (with Bishop Pevec accompanied by the Joey Tomsick Orchestra). The Federation of Slovenian Homes for the Greater Cleveland area recently honored their “Men and Women of the Year.” We congratulate the principal honorees, Kathy Hlad (well known button accordionist) and James Slapnik (florist). ANNE TOMSICK 216.531.2745 cjaynow@yahoo.com BRANCH 54 - Warren, Ohio Happy Mother’s Day to all. Our annual luncheon will be held on Wed. May 17,h at the Cafe 422 on Youngstown Road. Get well wishes to Vic Zuga, our charter member, who had been hospitalized recently with pneumonia and other health problems but is doing better now. 1 have also been handicapped with a severe leg problem, but am making a slow recovery, because of this we had no winter meetings since the group meets at my home. Our member and my Anne Arhar, Fr. Joseph Boznar and Ivanka Matic daughter Pat and son-in-law Mark who live in South Carolina will be traveling to Europe in June, to tour Vienna, Prague and Slovenia. Pat was featured on the Providence Hospital, March 2006 calendar with her scrub outfit - She’s a Registered Nurse in the Cardiac Surgery Recovery and it was quite a distinction to be picked out of 1800 employees. It came as a complete surprise to her. Needless to say, her Dad and I are very proud of her! Our sympathy to Fran Sainato and Barb Jaros on the death of Jennie Smuke, their sister-in-law and aunt. Congratulations to Corinne on guiding the new editor in continuing to produce such a good magazine! The March-April cover was beautiful. Keep up the good work. JOANNE PONIKVAR 330-856-2911 BRANCH 89 - Oglesby, Illinois Greetings from Oglesby, the Gateway to Starved Rock, where our SWUA 2007 National Convention will be held. At our last meeting we discussed what our branch will do to make it an interesting and fun time for everyone who attends. It’s going to be great. We talked about how to properly display our original charter that lists the names of all our charter members. We are talking to the Oglesby Public Library and hope to hang it there. It is in an ornate frame and all the names are written in beautiful script. We want to find a safe place for it in our hometown. Tammy Landgraf is going to be our Scrapbook Editor. Thanks, Tammy, for sharing your talent with us. We have a new Junior Member; she is six year old Mary Argubright, grandma Flossie’s pride and joy. We welcome you, Mary. Best regards, BARBARA BRUCH barbarabruch@vahoo.com BRANCH 99 - Lemont, Illinois We are looking forward to celebrating Mother’s Day and Marija Pomagaj Sunday on May 2 lsl. Mass is at St. Mary’s at 11:00 a.m. Participating will be violinist Olivia Schultz, granddaughter of Member of the Year, Fran Schultz, along with our members and juniors. Afterwards, it will be party time at the Cultural Center with a delicious buffet and a program by the Schultz family in honor of their mom and grandmother. We hope to make it a very enjoyable affair. Fran deserves it! A reminder, please bring some goodies for the sweet table. We had another fabulous cooking class on March 18th. There were 12 students, 2 of them were young men and 4 ladies came from LaSalle, 100 miles away. We made the Slovenian Easter sweet rolls called MENIHI. 1 think no one will forget how much fun it was - just like all our classes have been - and our teachers have been great! This time Julka Kacin and her daughter, Julie guided us through all the techniques of rolling the dough, etc., and everyone was able to take home an array of various shaped “little monks”. We have a potica class on September 30 and making krofi on October 14. For these classes beginning students will learn hands-on, whereas others who are interested may just watch and take notes. With this system we hope everyone will be accommodated. Next meeting is Sept. 17th. We will have a discussion period after the meeting to answer questions about our various Slovenian traditions, and if time allows, a Slovenian travelogue. You’d be surprised how many people wonder about their heritage and things that we take for granted. So, come and be educated. CORINNE LESKOVAR BRANCH 102 - Willard, Wisconsin Our meeting was held February 4th, 12 members and 4 guests were present. We enjoyed a potluck lunch followed by a short meeting, door prizes were awarded and bingo was played. Get well wishes go out to our Branch President Rose Pakiz, she had a hip replaced. Have a speedy recovery Rose. Pat Sixel has been chosen as our Member of the Year. She was honored at our April meeting. Pat is the daughter of the late Jo Artac. Msgr. Matthew Malnar will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of his Ordination May 28th at Holy Family. Our Palm Sunday Bake Sale was held April 8,h and April 9th before and after Masses. Our annual plant sale was held April 29th and 30th before and after Masses. Aprons are in our news. For our September meeting we are asked to bring or wear aprons where Vicki Krultz will demonstrate strudel making. AGNES DEBEVEC BRANCH 108 - Olney, Maryland Welcome new members, Nikolas and Viktor Antolin, Jessica Balazic, Carol Litvinas, Erika Maxel and Judith Smith. We look forward to meeting each of you at a branch meeting or event soon. On February 25 a Pustna veselica, Shrovetide masquerade festival was held. The pre-Lenten celebration offered an opportunity to learn about Pust traditions and eat Slovenian style food, including ham, sausages, krofi and potica. Guests were entertained by live button box accordion music and folk songs played on the piano. Junior members and other youth mingled with one another while engaged in creating colorful masks. The sizeable turnout gave members of the Washington, DC metropolitan Slovenian community of friends and families the opportunity to socialize with a wide range of people of Slovenian descent. Embassy of Slovenia in Washington, DC representative Tadej Rupel gave a welcome address in both English and Slovenian wishing everyone a festive Pust celebration. He summarized the well-known Carnival figure “Kurant” typically dressed in sheepskin and bells tied to his belt with a mask, horns, wings and a long red tongue that makes rounds chasing away winter in hopes of spring in the villages around Ptuj, the oldest city in Slovenia. Ivanka V. Antolin came on stage with a hand made mask created by her son and shared her reminiscence of Pust in Slovenia from her youth. ‘7 lived as a child in Ljubljana and do not remember any carnival procession. However, we children ransacked mamas old trunk and found all kinds of finery to disguise ourselves... while we children ran from house to house to show ourselves to neighbors, our mothers were making doughnuts (krofe) mountains of them... we were not supposed to run in and out or slam the doors. This would interfere with the rising of the delicate dough." (More excerpts from Mrs. Antolin’s reminiscence talk from the program will be cited in the Branch 108 July/August feature article to come.) Youth participants were invited to the stage to show their beautiful creations of masks made with paper mache, feathers, markers and colorful glitter. Pust in Slovenia is similar to Halloween in America in that children dress up wearing masks and go door to door asking for treats, so the group of children gathered on stage was requested to repeat a Slovenian phrase and learn its English meaning to receive a bag filled with treats. “From House to House, from door to door, we bring luck and the hope of spring. Give me a dollar or two, three doughnuts and a wedge of meat.” On behalf of the Montgomery County Executive in Maryland, Shu-Ping Chan of the Office of Community Outreach presented SWUA Branch 108 an award of recognition and appreciation for “representing Slovenian Americans in and around Montgomery County and for providing opportunities for all residents to learn and appreciate the diverse cultures in our community.’" Br. 108 President, Bernadette K. Fitzsimmons accepted the award and was thanked for her efforts on the Montgomery County Committee on Ethnic Affairs. Dedicated Branch 108 members and their families planned and worked together as a unified team in planning and preparing details for Pustna veselica. The following members and sponsors deserve a round of applause for working together to make it successful: Florence and Chuck Engelhardt and their two grandchildren, Bernadette and Tim Fitzsimmons and their three children, John Klansek and his daughter and granddaughter, Fran Hrastar, Lynn Koiner, Nika Kovacic, Eveline and David Lawrence, Bonnie Pausic, Ed Primožič, Erika Kokal Roda and her three children, Helena Schweiger, Shu-Ping Chan, Frank Vidergar and Estelle Dawn Zorman. It was wonderful to see so many members who brought along friends and relatives to share our traditions at Pustna veselica. Thanks to all that joined us! BKF BRANCH 109 - Twin Cities, Minnesota We recently had a “Slovensko Petje” (Slovenian Singing) party at the home of Karen and Miro Medved in Roseville, in addition to our regular meeting in March, Karen and Miro hosted a second Slovensko Petje on March 24th. This fun event was open to members and friends interested in learning to sing Slovenian songs. What would an evening of song be without wine, sausage, potica, “kisli krompir” and šunka! We even had Karen Medved and Shelby Setniker Eshiti accompanying us with their traditional button box melodies. Here is just a partial list of the songs: Kje so tiste stezice, Regiment, Če student na rajžo gre, Večernica, Moj Očka Ima Konjička Dva, Pojdem na Štajersko, Kolkr Kapljic,tolko let and we even tried to sing the Slovenian National Anthem “Zdravljica” by France Prešeren. Miro helped us with the translation as well as supplying us with copies of the various songs. We hope to make this a monthly event. Our next meeting is scheduled for May 5,h at the Nectary restaurant where we will be sending a committee to view the Festival of Nations held annually in St. Paul. One of our branch goals is to feature Slovenia at the Festival in 2007.The last item on the March agenda was Mary Vidas, our President, is in the process of planning our annual Twin Cities Slovenians picnic at the Minnesota Arboretum in June. NORMAN SETNICKER Nonnas 188@msn.com 651 -777-6106 Happy Mother’s Day We seldom think of the Blessed Mother as a very young mother but here she is, doing her laundry while watching the Baby Jesus as He plays on the grass. She was a busy mother. It must have been the happiest time of her life. Just like mothers today, she gloried in the simplest tasks of motherhood. The artist is unknown To all those Slovenians who are Young or Young-at-Heart: If you have never been in Slovenia, let me invite you to experience one of the most beautiful countries in the world! Visiting Slovenia is a unique opportunity not to be missed! Slovenia is a land of unspoiled beauty and breathtaking scenery. As one visitor from the United States said, “I travel a lot, and I have been in many countries, but have never seen so many different things in a such a small place: Slovenia boasts the Alps covered with snow, blossoming meadows, mighty caves, vineyards, pristine rivers and majestic waterfalls. Every time I thought I had seen it all, this beautiful country showed me something even more spectacular. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! ” Still not convinced? If you think he was exaggerating, experience Slovenia’s splendor for yourself! My name is Ingrid Cercek, and 1 can offer you two ways to experience Slovenia’s beauty firsthand. Wilderness Travel is an American trekking and hiking agency based in Berkeley, CA. They offer a thirteen-day hiking trip in Slovenia (described on their website as »the unheralded gem of Europe« which it surely is!) This trip takes you through beautiful vineyards, the breathtaking Julian Alps, medieval towns, and around shimmering lakes. The trip ends with a boat ride to Piran, an old Venetian town on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, where you enjoy panoramic views of the coast and delicious Mediterranean food. I’ll be with you on the five trips they will run this year. For more information or a detailed itinerary, check out their website: httn://www.wildernesstravel.coin/nav/adventure-travel- slovenia.html Alternatively, if you’re part of a bigger group, or want families to travel together, TrekTrek, a Slovenian outdoor ad- Hiking Triglav Mountains Photographer: B. Kladnik www.slovenia.info Kayaking on the Soča River Photographer A. Fevžar www.slovenia.info venture agency may be just the choice for you. This company offers plenty of possibilities for winter sports, such as downhill skiing, crosscountry skiing, tobogganing (you can even do this with torches at night), hiking or paragliding. We can also arrange trekking, cycling, horseback riding, rafting, kayaking and other water activities. Find more information on their website: www.trektrek.si. An example of a typical 8 day adventure with Trek Trek would be: Dav 1: Hike through the legendary Gold Horn kingdom. Day 2: Walk along the green meadows in the heart of Triglav National park with spectacular views of the Seven Triglav lakes. Day 3: Visit the Soča valley and Lake Bled, ascend Slovenia’s highest pass and follow the stream of the emerald Soča River as it continues its way all the way down to the Adriatic sea. Day 4: Experience Bovec, the white-water capital of Slovenia. This is something all water enthusiasts should experience. Day 5: Visit Kozjak-Goriška-Štanjel and hike to Ernest Hemingway’s favorite waterfall of Kozjak, then round out the day at the stonewalled wine cellars of Goriška Brda to sample world-class wines. Dav 6: Discover the underground world of Skocjan’s caves and wander around narrow streets of the beautifully preserved coastal Piran town to get a feeling of old Venetian times. Dav 7: Discover the natural stone bridges in Rakov Škocjan Regional Park where the Rak River has carved out a series of curious natural features. Dav 8: Enjoy splendid views from the Ljubljana castle and dive into the city’s picturesque antique market. If either of these trips sounds interesting to you, please contact me and I will answer all your questions! You may email me at: ingrid.cercek@siol.net or visit the websites listed above. Remember, Slovenia is so much more than Bled, Portorož and potica! Feature Branch: 93 New York Revitalizing a Branch: What Other Branches can Learn from our Experience New York Branch 93, it’s been almost five years since a small group of New Yorkers, me included, started reorganizing Branch 93 in New York. We’ve had many successes - increased our membership, created a great Web site and held many events and activities. But, we can also look back and recall not only the successes, but also the past difficulties and ponder the future challenges. It was December 2001 when I, armed with little knowledge* of and slim connections to Slovenia, attended a holiday party put on by the Slovenian Consulate and Slovenian Business Community. There I met Ervin Hladnik, who said I must meet his wife Miijam**. She was starting a research project about women of Slovenian descent in the U.S., and as editor of SWUA’s New Neighborhood e-newsletter, I was able to direct her to Slovenian-American women. Miijam and I were soon discussing the idea of a New York SWUA branch. I found there was a branch in Brooklyn which was dormant - members were out of state or too elderly to meet. But the eight or nine members provided a framework around which to build. We reorganized as Branch 93-NYC to encompass the entire tri-state area (New York, New Jersey and Connecticut). I got a small list of SWUA members in our area from SWUA National Secretary Bonnie Pohar Prokup. and contact prospective members. In addition, the Slovenian Consulate started including information about our branch in its monthly calendar of events. And we ask SWUA members to let us know when a family member or friend of Slovenian descent moves to the area, no matter what age. Our greatest find has been native Slovenians who are furthering their education at grad school or through doctoral programs, or who are pursuing careers. (Fellow branches, NYC can’t be the only place where native Slovenians are pursuing higher education or their career goals. See if there is a way to find Slovenian students at the colleges and universities in your area. Ask your members working at large corporations to check their company’s employee directory for Slovenian names, too.) But starting a branch, or in this case, reorganizing, presents some challenges. There may not be enough interest - our first few meetings were held at ethnic restaurants, but soon it became clear they lacked purpose. Our best attended events so far? An afternoon tea for Kulturni Dan (Culture Day) with a presentation on the poet France Prešeren and Gregorjevo or Valentivo - the Slovenian version of Valentine’s Day, egg dyeing with plants and onion skins for Easter, a Slovenian wine tasting, our lecture/documentary film series with Mirjam Hladnik and a recent scrap booking event. Clearly the educational component is important. Members and guests have to walk away feeling like they learned something/participated and that their time was well spent. After all, we compete against everything there is to offer in NYC. For many of us, it’s We now have access to records from the original branch, so we will be able to research We invited all, via snail-mail, to our first meeting at a New York City Hungarian restaurant. There was little response. Some members had never been involved with the branch; others belonged long distance to other branches. But Mirjam and I, as well as some other members, stuck it out. We soon got a few others to join - from people we met at social events such as contra dancing, to members who responded to a mailing about us from the Slovenian Consulate. We even got a few SWUA members to transfer over! Branch 93 Easter egg dyeing 2003 not so much living our legacy as it is learning more about our legacy. The wonderful diversity of Branch 93 can be a double-edged sword. We have Slovenian-Americans from across the country and native Slovenians (even a Slovenian-Argentinean), but we lack the “old neighborhood” sense of belonging and camaraderie. We didn’t grow up in the same places at the same time and its taken time to get to know one another. Many of our members speak Slovenian fluently and our events give them a chance to speak in their native language. For those of us who don’t speak Slovenian, language can be a barrier, but all of our members do speak English. Many of us are not originally from NYC. So we do share the trials and tribulations of life in the urban/ suburban jungle. When we gather we are a unique group with a shared ethnic heritage. Slovenians comprise just a small group in NYC, but we are represented! We also use our many communication tools to stay connected. In addition to our Web site, which tracks our history and allows prospective members to find us, we have a Yahoo user group and we do an annual mailing - a holiday card with a brief newsletter and our membership list. It’s important for members to see the list - a surname may bring about a family connection or fellow members may find they live near each other. (We encourage members to meet each other on their own in addition to attending branch events). Most of us are on e-mail, so it’s a challenge to keep those who are not, informed. Some members show support by maintaining their membership, but we encourage all members to come to our meetings and activities. Mirjam Hladnik translating a Slovenian splasher cloth for a guide taking notes at Iron World Discovery Center, Chisholm, Minnesota. members taking on leadership roles, do we have a presence in Zarja The Dawn and The New Neighborhood (online newsletter)? This keeps us thinking about future growth. Of course we extend a warm welcome to all members visiting New York - feel free to attend our events or, with some notice, we can hold an impromptu get-together. Who knows - you may even have ideas to share with us on how we can continue to grow our branch. - by Lynn Zalokar * My knowledge of Slovenia and Slovenian-Americans has increased substantially since then, mostly through self-study. **Mirjam Hladnik, PhD, Sociology; Researcher, Institute of Slovenian Emigration Studies in Ljubljana. To learn more about Branch 93, go to www.swuanyc.org or contact Sonja Knezevic-Kong at skll 7(a),Cornell.edu. How do we run our branch? Well, most of us have full-time jobs, so leadership duties are rotated. I served as branch president for more than two years, now we have another president. A change of leadership is refreshing. Our current president has hosted several meetings at her New York apartment, providing us with a central meeting place, and she tackled a grant application that brought Mirjam Hladnik back here for our lecture series. Another member writes branch reports. Others lead events and contribute articles to Zarja The Dawn. We now have approximately 48 members and we regularly assess our efforts: Do members attend our events, is membership increasing, are Kollander World Travel www.kollander-travel.com 971 E 185 St. Clevenland, OH 44119