VOLUME 75 DC LLJ Q CZD u_ ^ i i -— LI—1 CD z < CJ> S> cc LLJ CD LLJ Q_ LLJ CO CC LLJ CC O U_l =d r»4 CO L-i_l 3 Si LXJ cz> ^ s s < ZI> Li_| CO LLJ o 1 CO N NUMBER 5 1 > National Officers and Delegates of the 24th National SWUA Convention, June, 2003, Duluth, Minnesota ON THE COVER: National Officers and Delegates of the 24th National SWUA Convention, June 2003, Duluth, Minnesota Front row, sealed, left to right: Denise Bartlett, Olga Dor-chak, Angela Nico, Beverly Menart, Betty Ann Kolesari, Kathleen Dorchak-Hall, Bonnie Pohar Prokup, Jonita Ruth, Marjorie Church; Second row standing: Mary Miller, Mary Lou Voelk, Valerie Bohinc, Rosemary Marn, Lynn Zalokar, Agnes Dobczak, Mary Turvey, Corinne Leskovar, Gladys Born, Dorothy Mehosky, Charlotte Launch, Angela Stare, Patricia Figurowski, Gail Minton, Linda Ford; Third row: Virginia Strukel, Beverly Jackson, Elsie Spel-lacy, Rosemary Marn; Fourth row: Agnes Mattson, Mirjam Hladnik, Ceta Zagar, Vida Kumse, Anita Vovk; Fifth row: Jane Yadlosky, Rose Pakiž, Jean Železnikar, Catherine Sandvick, Mary Ann Brunner, Genevieve Buol; Sixth row: Dolores Hennelly, Fran Morison, Charlotte Kobe, Jean Korsman, Jean Herbst, Josephine Gornik, Doris Skull. HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN SEPTEMBER Presidents: Sep. 5 - Ann Kapel, Br. 100, Fontana, CA Secretaries: Sep. 2 - Joanne Ponikvar, Br. 54, Warren, OH Sep. 22 - Rosemary Mlakar, Br. 100, Fontana, CA Sep. 28 - Patricia Adamic, Br. 105, Detroit, MI HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN OCTOBER National Officers: Oct. 9 - Corinne Leskovar, Editor, Chicago, IL Oct. 11 - Jonita Ruth, National Treasurer, Joliet. IL Oct. 26 - Kathleen Dorchak, National President, Silver Lake, OH Presidents: Oct. 13 - Olga Dorchak, Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH Oct. 15 - Rose Bradach, Br. 68, Fairport Harbor, OH Oct. 17 - Charlene Kobe, Br. 20, Joliet, IL Secretaries: Oct. 11 - Mary Jermene, Br. 85, Depue, IL Oct. 17 - Linda Ford. Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH, SWU Webmaster Oct. 5 - Lynn Zalokar, Online Newsletter Fditor ZARJA - THE DAWN (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 NO. 4 JULY-AUGUST, 2003 VOL. 75 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Zenske Zveze. Published Bi-monthly - šestkrat na leto. Annual Subscription for non-members, $20.00 — naročnina $20.00 letno :a ne-članice. Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926 Periodicals Postage Paid at Joliet. IL and at additional mailing offices All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu. Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 Email: CORLESKOVAR@AOL.COM Telephone: (773) 548-8878 - Facsimile: (773) 268—4899 Internet webpage: www.swua.org e-mail: swuhome@msn.com On line newsletter: lzalokar@yahoo.com GOOD THINGS ARE HAPPENING: September 14 Minnesota State Convention hosted by Br. 33, Duluth, MN September 28 Grape Harvest Dance Br. 20, Joliet, IL October 5 75th Anniversary, Br. 20, Joliet, IL in conjunction with IL-IN State Convention October 11 Dinner-Dance, Br. 103, Washington, D.C. October 12 Ohio-Michigan, State Convention hosted by Br. 10, Cleveland, OH In this Issue: President’s Report 2 Secretary's Report 2 Heritage Director’s Report 4 Nat’l Convention Report 6—10 Scholarship Report 14-16 Genealogy Director 17 “Slovenski otroci” 19 Activities of our Branches 20-29 From our Heritage Kitchens 30 2002 Membership Campaign: 2003 THE FUTURE IS NOW MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN “Reaching Up and Beyond” Each one - Reach One! Our greatest workers in the 2002 Campaign for New Members were: Dolores Puhek, Br. 2, Chicago, IL Anita Vovk, Br. 35, Aurora. MN Jean Herbst, Br. 20, Joliet, IL and Teresa Gorup, Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH Dolores Anita Jean Teresa They all had success enrolling new members by emphasizing their branch programs and heritage goals. Thanks to them and all campaign workers in the successful 2002 campaign that netted 175 new members! Prizes to the individual and branch winners have all been distributed. (For more reference, see ZARJA from March-April, 2003.) Remember our 2003 Campaign Mountain Climbers? They took us over the top of the first mountain - that was Phase I! Now let's climb over the Phase II mountain! Don’t forget our slogan: The Future is Now! I hope you all enjoyed reading the last ZARJA issue, which showed the outstanding job our membership did on recruiting new members. This was our best year ever. At the end of the campaign on June 30, 2003 we recruited 208 new members. That is superfantastic. and the top individual winner is Adrienne Micklich of Branch 34, Soudan, MN. Since becoming the new Branch President, Adrienne recruited a total of 38 new members. And not only that, her branch, was the top recruiter, Adrienne was sent two grab bag presents with special goodies from our Heritage Museum/Library. One is for her as the individual winner and one is to be divided however they wish for their branch. And guess what? What always happens when a good job is done? Yes, they ask you to do it again. So, is everyone ready for... THE FUTURE IS NOW...PART TWO! We are going to take off right were we left off on June, 30, 2003 and continue to build from there. Again there will be three prizes 1) for the State President who increases their territory total membership the most over the year 2002, 2) for the branch that increases the most members over 2002, 3) for the individual who brings in the most new members. Good luck! I will keep everyone posted via the website, emails, newsletter and the ZARJA. Bonnie Pohar Prokup 2003 The Future is Now...Part Two Membership Chairperson GET AN EARLY START ON THE MAGIC MONTH CALENDAR TURN TO THE CENTER SECTION OF THIS ISSUE OF ZARJA. YOU WILL FIND THE “JANUARY, 2004 MUSEUM MAGIC MONTH” CALENDAR. PLEASE REMOVE AND RETURN STUB WITH YOUR $10.00 DONATION. SEE DETAILS ON CALENDAR FOR MORE INFO. THIS IS A GREAT FUND RAISER FOR SWUA HERITAGE MUSEUM AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, A WONDERFUL WAY TO GIVE AN UNUSUAL GIFT TO SOMEONE WHO WOULD ENJOY BEING REMEMBERED! ENVELOPES FOR THE GIFT CARDS ARE AVAILABLE FOR THE ASKING. CALL OR E-MAIL THE HOME OFFICE. GOOD LUCK! MARGE CHURCH, CHAIRMAN (r " ^ NATIONAL PRESIDENT Kathleen Dorchak V — 2003 - A Beautiful Beginning At the National Convention this past June, delegates voiced their concerns loud and clear - echoing that a change is needed if the Slovenian Women's Union is to grow. The voting body of the convention was faced with some tough decisions regarding the bylaws and the National Board of Directors. 1 believe their decisions were made in the best interest of the members of the Slovenska Ženska Zveza. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them again for their vision and contribution to the membership. This issue of the ZARJA contains a report of the convention so you all can know what an exciting event it was. Your new Board of Directors is enthusiastic and committed to implement new programs and change existing methods, in the hopes of gaining new members and attempting to invigorate the present members. Minutes of the Board of Directors 3-day meeting held in July wil be published in the next issue of the ZARJA. We made the best decisions and recommended ideas to be implemented to create a stronger future of our organization. The simple words of “Thank You” are not enough when I express my gratitude to all of the members that support the SWUA through their generous donations and purchases of our various items and cookbooks as well as through their volunteer hours and our various projects. Your generosity is what makes us successful. While you may feel that your donation of money or time may not be very significant, we consider each one extremely noteworthy. Your cooperation and support is always greatly appreciated. Regional Conventions are coming up fast. Please mark your calendars with the appropriate date and plan to attend. Your presence makes a huge difference. This will be the time to learn what happened at the National Convention and even meet some of our new Board of Directors. They would like to meet each of you, as the opportunity presents itself. Happily may I walk, May it be beautiful before me, May it be beautiful behind me, May it be beautiful below me, May it be beautiful above me, May it be beautiful all around me, In beauty it is finished. Navajo Night Chant Love and Blessings Always, Kathleen l)orchak-Hall 3088 Markle Drive Silver Lake, Ohio 44224 Telephone: (330) 686--1336 Fax: (330) 688-6203 Email: kdorchak@neo.rr.com National Secretary, Bonnie Pohar Prokup: PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE... BE A PART OF IT! I hope everyone had an enjoyable summer. We did! As I am writing this I am in the process of packing our bags for a trip to England and France. As many of you know I have travel benefits which means 1 can travel anywhere for literally nothing. And to make this trip more special we are staying with my lifelong friend GerriLynn Bima Pearse who is expecting her first baby. As you can imagine the girls are thrilled to be making this trip. Bill will join us in the middle of our trip. I just returned from our National Board meeting yesterday. We spent three long days discussing the past, present and future of the organization. The new board is excited and I anticipate many good things happening from this. One area we discussed had to do with a few minor issues brought up at the Convention pertaining to my job duties. We made decisions based on what the delegates were looking for and what financially is workable for SWUA. I will send a letter to all Branch Presidents and Secretaries at the beginning of September on this. Another suggestion that came up at the Convention was for the National Secretary to have a copy machine. This copy machine will save money and serve many purposes for my position. One additional duty I will be able to fulfill is making copies of new member’s applications once I process them. They will then be mailed out to the branch for their records. And who made this possible? Our very own 2nd Auditor, Denise Paula Bartlett. Denise recognized the importance of this and made a very generous donation of $200.00 in memory of her paternal grandmother, Gertrude Delopst who was the first President of Branch 43, Milwaukee, WI. Thank you very much, Denise! I am sure your grandmother is very proud of you. A really important issue for everyone to be aware of is next year’s billing. As many of you already know the dues increase did pass. 1 realize it may be a hardship for some but it is necessary. As I gave in my reports at the Convention we are not making ends meet. For just the ZARJA alone, which includes the printing and the editor’s salary we are around $15.00 per member per year. Do you realize how many of our members do not pay $15.00? It is 1,832 members. I think you all agree that the ZARJA is what holds us all together. We do not want to cheapen the quality or delete anymore issues. It is too important to our Zveza. According to a bylaw change that was passed this year, anyone not paying their dues within six months will lose their insurance benefit. Please - Please pay on time so we don’t have to take this step. I realize those with the Burial Insurance policies hold these dear. Sincerely, Bonnie Pohar Prokup National Secretary, SWUA Wprokup@aol. com Kathleen Betty Ann Bonnie Jonita Kathleen Dorchak—Hall National President Kathleen has been married to Bob for over 25 years. They have one son, Jason and a seven-year granddaughter named Sky. She and Bob are actively involved in several Classic Car associations. Kathy owns a 1971 Dodge Dart Swinger named “Perdy.” Having a great love for anything “Disney,” she is currently working part-time at a local Disney Store. Kathleen and Bob are also very involved with raising money for their favorite charity “Camp Quality,” a support group helping kids with cancer. Betty Ann Kolesari National Vice President First off, I would like to thank the Board of Directors and the Delegates for their vote of confidence in electing me into the National Vice President position. I am very honored and will try to assist the SWUA to the best of my abilities. I am equally honored to have my cousin, Denise Paula Bartlett elected to the National Board as 2nd auditor. Working with the Board and getting acquainted with many others are endeavors I look forward to. My mother and father, Deone and Andrew De-lopst, raised 3 boys and 2 girls in Franklin, WI, with me being the youngest bom in 1960. I now reside in New Berlin, WI, with my husband. Jack. I have two step-sons and five step-grandchildren, with one more on the way. All live in the Milwaukee area. My grandparents, Gertrude (Globočnik) and Frank Delopst came over from Slovenia in the early I900’s. They had 5 boys and 2 girls, my father, Andrew, being the youngest. Grandmother Gertrude and a group of Slovenian women established Branch #43 in 1930, electing Gertrude as 1st president. Currently, I work at a company called Closing Services of Wisconsin, Inc. It is a small attorney’s firm which does house closings and refinances for lenders in the area. My hobbies include baking, gardening and bike riding. I am very proud and honored to be Vice President and will try my best to serve the SWUA for the next 4 years. Thank You! Bonnie Prokup National Secretary We’re Back! And it’s a two for one deal! When I was voted in at the Convention the SWUA also gained the knowledge and support of my husband. Bill who helps tremendously with the financial aspect. He serves as our SWUA advisor, handles much of the finances and attends the board meetings. By doing this it allows me to locus on the membership, communication, creative thinking and new projects. Together we make a great team! The past four years have gone by fast and since then wonderful memories were made in our family. A major change in my life came last year when I left my job of 18 years at a major airline. As we all know the airline business has changed drastically. I was offered a deal I could not refuse. I now have 10 years Please turn the page Hill and Bonnie New Executive Board of SWUA New Executive Board (continued) of travel benefits and the right to be rehired at any time and to keep my seniority, which means a lot in the airline business. This was too good to be true. A highlight for me was two trips to Slovenia where Bill joined family members and me on a second trip. What great memories we have of those trips. If anyone ever desires to go - please give it a try. Both trips I planned on my own arranging the transportation, hotel and touring. It is quite easy and rather cheap by European standards. My girls are doing great. Bekki just turned 11 and Barbi just turned 8. They attend Peru Catholic School in Peru, Illinois. Both love to play softball, take dancing lessons and are involved in the choir. In addition, Bekki plays the piano, saxophone, and enjoys volleyball and basketball. We are looking forward to another four years. Na zdravje! Jonita (Erjavec) Ruth, National Treasurer I am now in my second term of National Treasurer of Slovenian Women’s Union of America. I have been a member of SWUA for 65 years and have worked in the home office for 25 years as Office Manager. My 3 daughters, Janice, Rosanne and Lorraine, as well as my grandchildren, Kelsey, Kyle, Hannah, and Hayley, are all members of Branch 20. There are 3 “P's” that describe my interests. Pinochle. Picnics (@St. Joseph’s park), and Polkas. I volunteer for the March of Dimes which includes “The Walk" for healthy babies held in April and “the Night on the Town," a dinner banquet/silent auction held in October. The 5 words that best describe me are Aggressive, Caring, Emotional, Producing, and Honest. I am looking forward to helping with the growth of SWUA. Is the Membership Campaign Over? Noooooooooo! “The Future is Now Membership Campaign Will Continue,” says our campaign chairman, National Secretary, Bonnie Prokup! She continues: “The Campaign was sooooo successful - we ended with 208 new members and already are sigm 'g up more since the Convention! It’s sooooo easy when everyone helps!” More details on the campaign in this and in the future ZARJAs! News from the Heritage Museum and Library: Our library volunteers continue to dedicate hours to the indexing of the accumulated books. About 50% of the books have been indexed. Theresa Bums, Vicki Hodgman, and Patti Meglich Sespico, you are dancing the polka! We recently acquired 70 books from Katherine Peshel in Ely, MN, her father was a book seller as was his father in Slovenia! The final write up on Survey 2002 is almost complete. Some very interesting information has been collected from our membership. Hopefully the information can be posted on our website and written up in the ZARJA in the very near future. BTW, our website is currently under construction, our website coop has been hard at work. News from Branch 20: Members continue with their 75th anniversary planning. Several national board members will be sponsoring a wine and cheese social at our Heritage Center during this anniversary event. Branch 20 has taken initiative to send out a 1st ever survey to their membership. We commend them for their dedication to the Slovenian heritage. Their survey will be a model for other branches to follow. Again, we have Branch 20 dancing the polka! I continue researching museum and library presentaion/ storage and exhibits. Conserve O Grams put out by our federal government are very informative PDF files that can be printed out. To Ye To! Mary Lou Deyak Voelk DONATIONS TO THE HERITAGE MUSEUM FUND $100 Cindy Conte, in mem tLouis Fabian, Sr., of WSA Fraternal Life Assoc. Three Star Lodge 33; $10 Bonnie Prokup (24), in mem. tAnne Marie Wang-ler, Pres. Br. 24; Cathy Lenkaitis (24), in mem. tAnne Marie Wangler. The Candid Camera at our Convention {Photos on page 5) Top right, Lvnn Zalokar, Valerie Bohince, Mary Lou Voelk, Mir jam Hladnik share an enjoyable moment; Second row. Gladys Buck and Angie Nico dressed up in their beautiful Slovenian costumes stopped to see the Slovenian Miners and Laborers Monument at Iron-world; right, Mary Lou Voelk presents a first prize award to Jean Korsman (sec her potica recipe on page 30); Third row, Musicians provided music for singing and dancing at the Cruise on Lake Superior; right, the inspirational singers at the Polka Mass, St. Joseph's Church in (Hilbert, presided by Fr. Frank Perkovich; Bottom, “Singing Slovenes” were sensational entertainers at the Banquet. Convention photos in this issue by Linda Ford, Jonita Ruth and Man Turvey. 24th National Convention Report July 12 - 16, 2003 - Duluth, Minnesota Prepared by National President Kathleen Dorchak-Hall And approved by the National Board at the July 18-20, 2003 Board Meeting The National Convention in Duluth, Minnesota began on Thursday, July 12th with a Welcome Reception in the Hospitality Suite at the Hawthorne Suites. Delegates showed their Credentials and received their tote bag with a delegate’s binder and alternates and attendees were greeted. This was a gala event with a variety of foods, wines, and friendly conversations. The highlight of the Hospitality Suite was the bidding on the numerous Silent Auction items as well as various displays of heritage items and information. Attendees could purchase Heritage Museum Gift Shop items and Cookbooks brought from the Home Office in Joliet. The National Board met in the National President’s suite at 8:45 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. to discuss the convention business and to address any concerns or issues. All registered elected and appointed officers and regional presidents attended. The Delegate’s Binders contained the business session agenda, reports from all elected and appointed National Officers and Regional Presidents’ speakers’ handouts and various informational handouts. Children attending Camp Heritage, under the direction of Lisa McDonell, met during the convention business hours on Friday and Saturday. The Hospitality Suite was open to guests during the convention buisness session. At 10:00 a.m. Friday morning the Potica Contest was judged by the Duluth News Tribune special events reporter and the winner was announced at the Vista Boat Cruise on Friday evening. Prior to the business session the Credentials committee of Beverly Jackson and Bonnie Prokup reviewed the credentials of all delegates and confirmed each with photo identification. The Convention Business Session began promptly at 8:30 a.m., Friday July 13th in the Lake Room. National President Dorchak-Hall began the meeting with the Pledge of Alliance and welcomed all delegates, alternates and guests. Convention Coordinator Bev Menart gave her welcome. Our keynote speaker Father John Pctrich welcomed us to Minnesota, provided us with an invocation to begin the meeting and gave a moment of prayer for our deceased members. National Treasurer, Jonita Ruth suggested that Father consider becoming a member of SWUA. The official welcome was given by the Honorable Gary Doty, Mayor of the City of Duluth (left). Roll call was given by National Secretary Prokup. National President Dorchak-Hall introduced all National Officers and Regional presidents. There were 45 voting delegates present, which included branch delegates and National Officers. Greetings were acknowledged from Hermine Dicke, Past Cookbook Editor; Irene Odorizzi, Past Heritage Director and Josephine Janezic, Wisconsin Regional President. The first order of business was to the vote on the motion to accept the delegates as presented as the voting body of the convention. Genevieve Buol made the motion, seconded by Jean Korsman and the motion passed unanimously. National President Dorchak-Hall gave SWUA’s first "State of the Union” address which highlighted all of our accomplishments and success for the past 4 years and mentioned what is happening in 2003. She emphasized that these successes were joint ventures with the entire board and volunteer individuals working as a team. Our next speaker was Bill Prokup, SWUA’s financial advisor, who gave an overview of our financial condition. He outlined our source of funds and expenses and how we must adhere to the rules and regulations of the Illinois Department of Insurance. He explained to the delegates that they must be mindful of these when voting. After a short break, National Secretary Prokup gave a speech on the Membership of our association. She outlined and defined our membership by age and region, listed endangered branches, and described our membership today. Prokup’s PowerPoint presentation gave a complete picture of our membership statistics since SWUA’s inception. Her report highlighted the first increase in our membership in five decades. The Delegates then broke out into their respective committee assignments as follows: Cultural & Heritage, ZARJA, Membership, Fund Raising, Scholarships, and Promotions and Marketing. An hour break was provided for a light lunch of salad and sandwiches brought into the Lake Room. The afternoon session began at 1:00 p.m. with Corinne Leskovar speaking on her appointed position as ZARJA Editor. The subject was on the need for the preservation of our heritage. The audience expressed their awe with a standing ovation. The bylaw amendments submitted by members of the association were the next order of business. A quorum was established with 45 delegates in attendance. According to our bylaws a majority vote of 23 is necessary for approval. The following transpired with the corrected amendment verbiage: Amendment #1 - Passed 2.03. The purposes of this association are as follows: a) To unite persons of Slovenian or other descent and their families, who live in the United States of America, and who are Christians; b) -e) No change f) To maintain a burial fund from which payments not in excess of three hundred dollars ($300.00) may be made toward the funeral expenses of a deceased member. Amendment ;2 - Passed 3.02. Any individual, whether of Slovenian or other descent, who subscribes to the purposes and policies of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America may become a member of this association. All members are subject to compliance of these Bylaws. 3.03. The Slovenian Women’s Union of America will have five classes of members. The designations of and the qualifications for membership in these classes are as follows: a) Adult Class A: Only valid for members enrolled before January 1, 1996. b) Adult Class B: Women and Men between 18 and 65 years of age inclusive. c) Junior Class: Children and young adults up to the age of 18 years. d) Social Class: Individuals 66 years of age and older beginning January 1, 1988. e) New Adult Class: All members after the age of 18 enrolled after January 1, 2000. No changes to 3.04 - 3.07. Deleted 3.08 and 3.09 renumber 3.09 to 3.08. 3.09 Members who fail to pay their yearly assessment by the sixth month of every year will be cancelled and shall forfeit all benefits for any insurance claims submitted in the remaining portion of the year. Any member who has failed to pay his/her assessment by the sixth month of the year may be reinstated any time during that year upon payment of the full delinquent assessment and current assessment. A member who does not pay his/her full assessment nor is reinstated that year may join as a new member at a later date if he/she meets age requirements. Renumbered 3.13 and 3.14 to 3.11 and 3.12. Amendment #4 - Passed 7.01. The National Officers of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America will consist of the following personnel: The seven members of the Board of Directors, namely, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Three Auditors, the Director of Membership, the Director of Special Projects, the Scholarship Fund Director, the Director of Cultural and Heritage Activities, the Editor of ZARJA and the Regional Presidents. Members of the Board of Directors may serve in their individual positions for a maximum of two (2) terms, a term consisting of four (4) years each. The National Officers, namely, the Directors of Women’s Activities, Youth Activities, Scholarship Fund, Cultural and Heritage Activities and Editor of ZARJA, are appointed by unanimous decision of the Board of Directors. Candidates for these offices must be members in good standing with the association, must meet the qualifications of the particular office for which they have been selected, and have an appreciation of Slovenian heritage. 7.02. No change 7.03. The National president will be elected at each National Convention for a limit of two (2) terms of four years (4) each. She/he shall be at least thirty (30) years of age and a member of the association for at least two (2) years. The National President should be able to promote the principles of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America to the utmost of her abilities. 7.04 - 7.06. No change 7.07. The National Secretary will be elected to her/his office at each National Convention for a limit of two (2) terms of four (4) years year. She/he shall be an adult member of the association for at least two (2) years and have knowledge of accounting. To allow her/him to fulfill her/his association duties the National Secretary shall not hold an executive office in a branch, which would conflict with such duties. 7.08-7.11. No Change 7.12. The National Treasurer will be elected at each National Convention for a limit of two (2) terms of four (4) years each. She/he shall be a member of the association for at least two (2) years. She/he should have knowledge of accounting, finance and investments. 7.13. No change. 7.14. The National Auditors will be three (3) in number, and shall include the First National Auditor, the Second National Auditor, and the Third National Auditor. They will be elected at each National Convention for a limit of two (2) terms of four (4) years each. They shall be adult members of the association for at least two (2) years. They should possess some experience in business or accounting. The First National Auditor will have the duty to preside over the activities of the Auditors, and will present any and all reports on behalf of the group. 7.15. No change. 7.16. The Editor of ZARJA will be selected by the Board of Directors. The editor shall be an adult member of the association for at least two (2) years and preferably have an English and Slovenian language background. 7.17. No change 7.18. Each Regional President must be an adult member of the association for a minimum of two (2) years, and a member of a branch within the respective region. She/he should be able to promote the principles of the association to the best of her abilities. 7.19. - 7.20. No change 7.21. The Director of Membership shall be selected by the Board of Directors and be an adult member for at least two (2) years and shall have the duty to promote a building membership campaign on an annual basis. 7.22. The Director of Special Projects shall be selected by the Board of Directors to promote and organize special projects and programs, which create an interest in the organization. She/he shall be an adult member of the association for at least two (2) years. Amendment #5 - Passed 9.02. A yearly assessment is payable one time per year immediately upon billing, usually in January, February or March. The regular yearly assessments are as follows: a) Adult/Social Classes: $20.00 per year b) Junior Class: $ 5.00 per year 9.03. - 9.05. No change 9.06. All death benefits, salaries, management expenses, official organ expenses, National Convention expenses, per diem expenses, travel expenses and educational activity expenses will be paid from the General Fund and other association promotional funds. 9.07. - 9.10. No change 9.11. The bonding of certain National Officers, for faithful performance of their duties shall be as follows: a) The National President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer - S5.000.00 each. b) The Director of the Scholarship Fund -SI,000.00. c) The Director of Heritage and Cultural Activities - SI ,000.00. The bonding of the National Officer shall be provided for by the association and shall be kept in a safety deposit box in a designated bank. Amendment #6 - Passed 10.01. For the purposes of progress and better understanding of the aims of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, this organization shall issue a publication (official organ) called ‘ ZARJA" (The Dawn). Copies published shall be sent to each member of the association in the Adult/Social Class. 10.02. No change Delete 10.03 and renumber 10.04 to 10.03 and each number to 10.09. 10.03. The official organ shall also publish the activities of the branches, reports, and motions approved at the meetings of individual branches, the National Board, and State and National Conventions. Unsigned articles shall not be published. Resolutions sent by branches will be published only if approved by one fourth of the membership of the branch present at the meeting. Amendment #7 - Passed 12.01. To create additional interest, sociability and to foster new ideas benefiting the welfare of the organization. Regional Conventions will be held once a year in each region, the host branch being a different branch each year. Each branch in a region will send a representative-at-large. The regional president will preside over the convention and a recording secretary of the hostess branch will serve at each convention. The minutes of the convention will be published in ZARJA. There shall be six (6) regions, with each entitled to one regional president. The regions are: a) First Region: Eastern States of Pennsylvania, New York, Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. b) Second Region: Ohio and Michigan c) Third Region: Illinois and Indiana d) Fourth Region: Wisconsin e) Fifth Region. Minnesota 0 Sixth Region: Western States of California, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Oregon, and Washington. The following amendment was added during the convention to comply with the rules and regulations of the Illinois Department of Insurance. Amendment #8 - Passed 6.02. The Executive Committee shall hold meetings when the business of the association so demands. It shall have the power to manage the day-to-day affairs of the association in accordance with the decisions of the Board of Directors and the National Convention, the Bylaws and the laws of the State of Illinois Department of Insurance as referenced in the Illinois Insurance Code. It shall also have authority to invest and disperse the funds of the association in accordance with the Investment Policy established by the Board of Directors. The Executive Committee shall supervise the publication of the association’s official organ and any other document issued by the organization. Additionally, it shall carry out any program or assignment authorized by the Board of Directors. Time was allowed for Good of the Order to allow any member wishing to speak to come forward. The meeting adjourned at 4:30 p.m. Friday evening, attendees participated in a Vista Line Boat Cruise on the Lake Superior. The cruise included an Italian Buffet and entertainment by the button box musicians. President Dorchak-Hall thanked everyone who participated in the Potica contest, announced the winner, Jean Korsman, and presented her with a gift of Slovenian crystal. Saturday the Business Session reconvened at 8:40 a.m. President Dorchak-Hall gave an inspirational message and again welcomed the delegates. Our first speaker was Web Master, Linda Ford who gave us an informative talk on our S.W.U.A. website and how to negotiate around our site. Convention Committees were given half an hour to meet again to finalize their suggestions prior to their presentations. Committee Chairs presented the results established by their committees. The following Committee Chairs reported the suggestions of each committee: Delegates giving their rapt attention during the sessions Cultural & Heritage - Cliair, Corinne Leskovar - • Every branch should select a "contact person" to promote heritage, archive branch history, and report to the National Heritage Director. • Fund-raising for the museum by selling booklets for a nominal fee such as $5.00 which could be produced in three separate volumes. The first volume could include "Holidays and Traditions,” the second "Easter," the third "How to make Potica” and the fourth “Slovenian Costumes." A committee needs to be formed to create and edit the booklets. Also need to obtain a sponsor or sponsors for printing and advertising costs. Membership - Chair, Bev Jackson - • Ways to promote membership: kids through our website don't always read the ZARJA; adults and seniors through church bulletins; flyers at senior centers; show our “Look Through Our Eyes Video;” through radio stations. • Suggested copies of applications should go back to the branch secretary for their own branch tracking. • For Branch 30, our at-large-branch. Don’t put some one living out of state in Branch 30; instead, put in their state of residence. Scholarship - Chair, Fran Morison - • Each branch should assign one member to organize fund raisers for the scholarship program. • Make more members aware of the scholarship program. • Extend the scholarship winners through several issues of the ZARJA. • This is a very important program to create the leaders of tomorrow. ZARJA - Chair, Mary Lou Voelk • Maintain the same paper quality and 32 pages • On the front cover be consistent: index for each section, explanation of the cover and important dates. • Consider the follow sections: Letters to the Editor, Notable Slovenians in the news; cultural history of Slovenia; uniqueness of Slovenia foods and crops by region; typical Slovenian Holiday traditions; “In Memory Of’ Section. • Continue to print National Officer Board Reports. • Write for 3-4 generations and more Slovenian Heritage. • Limit photo size and charge $10.00. • Lessen choices for advertisement sponsors. • This committee plans to continue to meet and discuss further suggestions and ideas for the ZARJA. Fund-Raising - Chair, Char Kobe (Char Kobe chaired this committee for Marge Church, due to an illness) - • Branches could have a Bakeless Bake Sale - mail out something eye catching. • Next convention - have another Potica Contest and raffle them off. • Have a 50/50 Raffle at the National Convention. • Encourage each branch and/or family to purchase ads in the ZARJA. Looking pretty happy, M.C. Phase I Winner, Adrienne with Membership Chair, Bonnie Promotions and Marketing - Chair, Mary Turvey - • To promote our organization we should sell ourselves and live the life of Slovenian women and men. • Make a personal contact through our social obligations. Share our culture, traditions through the use of the ZARJA and cookbooks, our Online Newsletter, genealogy, pass out Slovenian Language Manuals, share recipes, and distribute our membership brochure. • Include the application form in the Online Newsletter. The Nominating Committee chaired by Bonnie Prokup submitted the following slate of officers: National President Kathleen Dorchak-Hall National Vice President Betty Ann Kolesari National Secretary Bonnie Prokup National Treasurer Jonita Ruth First Auditor Beverly Menart Second Auditor Denise Paula Bartlett Stephanie Segulin Third Auditor Marge Church Virginia Strukel There being no further nominations from the floor for any position the nominations were closed. The candidates that were unopposed were voted on verbally and passed by a unanumous vote. For the positions of Second Auditor and Third Auditor each candidate was given two minutes to speak on their behalf. Voting by ballot ensued for each of these positions and was tallied by the Teller Committee consisting of: Rose Mary Toth, Dolores Puhek and Nancy Henkel. The position of Second Auditor went to Denise Bartlett and the position of Third Auditor to Marge Church. The 2003-2007 National Board was introduced. Pat Figurowski gave a presentation and explanation about the 2004 Magic Month Calendar Raffle. Every attendee was given 10 calendars to take home to sell. Scholarship Director, Mary Turvey spoke about the Scholarship program and the award process the committee adheres to when reviewing applications. Anita Vovk also talked about the program being developed as a cultural trip to Slovenia which would fall under the Scholarship process. Anita proposed that a Cultural Educational Fund be set up to fund this program. The vote was unanimous. Special Projects Director, Mary Lou Voelk gave an informative talk on how we can get members involved and what is happening with our Heritage Museum/Library. Her theme "The Mother Cord and the Dance" captivated and inspired the members. The address was directed to those many volunteers who have committed themselves and their talents to projects within the SWUA. Our Guest Speaker was Mirjam Hladnik, Ph.D. from the Institute of Ljubljana in Women’s Studies. She related to us her research on the role and impact upon the Slovenian women immigrants. Ms. Hladnik has been interviewing Slovenian women for their stories and will document her oral interviews in a book when her project is complete. This three year project which ends June 2004 includes many interviews with SWUA members. Additionally, she brought to the convention and sold numerous handcralted items made by Bosnian refugee women now living in Slovenia. Her presence and presentation truly bridged our connection to our homeland — “From Slovenia to America. The announcement of the 25th National Convention was made by National Secretary Bonnie Prokup. The next convention will be held June, 2007 at Starved Rock State Park in Utica, Illinois which will be a joint venture for all Illinois branches. The assembly approved unanimously. Time was allotted for members to speak during Good of the Order. The business session adjourned at 3:35 p.m. Saturday evening transportation was provided to Fitger’s on the Lake for our Banquet. The Official Delegate photo was taken by Linda Ford. The banquet began with an invocation given by Mary White, Vice President of Branch 33, Duluth, MN. Heritage items were for sale in the hall before and after the banquet. Immediately after dinner the “Singing Slovenes" performed. The six campers from Camp Heritage performed three Slovenian songs for the audience. President Dorchak-Hall gave recognition awards in the form of certificates and a token of appreciation for all members that worked on the 1999-2003 team to make the past four years so successful. Eileen Plese, a Branch 20, Joliet, IL member won the “Frosty Morning" Quilt. The quit raffle raised $710.00. Winners of the Silent Auction were announced and proceeds were SI ,049.50. The 2003-2007 National Board was officially installed by Corinne Leskovar and Charlotte Laurich. President Dorchak-Hall gave an incoming president’s message indicating the need for change. The banquet ended at 9:30 p.m. The meal and entertainment were outstanding. Sunday attendees were bused to St. Joseph's in Gilbert to attend a Polka Mass officiated by Father Perkovich. Following the uplifting mass Father Perkovich gave the invocation for the luncheon organized by Jean Korsman, Pres, of Br. 39. President Dorchak-Hall gave a brief talk to thank everyone for attending, thanked the food preparers, and introduced the National Board. We then traveled north to Iron World in Chisholm. At Iron World we examined life of the iron worker of years gone by. Those on the bus returned back to the Hawthorne Suites in Duluth for the evening. Monday morning attendees traveling to the Twin Cities boarded the bus at 8:00 a.m. The bus stopped at the Julian H. Sleeper House to see the Slovenian Heritage Exhibit which opened September 2002 created by Dr. Seth Hawkins. After visiting the Sleeper House Museum some attendees traveled to the Mall of America and some stayed in the Grand Street area to visit the local shops and restaurants. This concluded the 24th National Convention. How was the National Convention in Duluth? That’s the question everyone asked me when I returned in June from our SWUA National Convention in Duluth, Minnesota. I traveled with a group from Joliet to Duluth with one stopover in the Twin Cities. In Duluth a short cab ride (actually two vans took care of all 13 of us!) took us to the Hotel and I’m telling you, if I ran away from home this is where I would go: king size bed, a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, television and very clean. “Free” hot and cold breakfasts down off the lobby and plenty of food. Off to the meetings - met some very nice ladies and everyone there with the same purpose - to make SWUA a better and bigger organization. The sessions were very productive and informative. Now the fun part! We had a wonderful cruise on Lake Superior and on the upper deck we heard a lot of Slovenian polka music so we could dance - after the meal we could walk out on the deck and enjoy the nice weather and view. Saturday night was the banquet with installation of officers and recognition awards given. The entertainment was super! The “Singing Slovenes” is a group that is unbelievable! I sat in awe of them as they sang and danced. We got so wrapped up in the program that we felt as if we were transported right to Slovenia. Even had a yodeler! The audience really participated in all this singing and dancing! Sunday morning we traveled up from Duluth to Gilbert, on the Iron Range. We attended a Polka Mass at St. Joseph’s church and Fr. Frank Perkovich was the main celebrant. The Polka Masters in their bright red blazers sang and I can honestly say I can’t remember ever not wanting a mass to end! Father’s homily was so interesting that we will remember it for long time - with clear facts about the meaning of the Gospel and the music filling the air. The polka group is very professional and just put us at complete ease. In the church basement hall after mass we had a meal like no other, with everything cooked so fresh and with such good seasonings. We wanted to know the cook’s secret recipe for coleslaw! One thing we noticed in Minnesota was that no matter where we went, the food was good and there was something very special about their salads. Then on to Ironworld in Chisholm, the town were many Slovenians still live. We were turned loose in the museum and everyone went their own way to view the many displays. With good weather, we even enjoyed walking outdoors. Back in our hotel each evening, our Joliet group visited nearby sights and took walks along the Lake. Sunday night we went to a restaurant that featured Mexican food and drinks - and what fun we all had when we ordered Margaritas on the treat of Aggie Dobczyk (We could not believe she had saved her birthday money from last February!). Monday was a free day for visits to the Sleeper Museum in the Twin Cities or to the Mall of America. We all survived the walking, eating, laughing and came back to reality on our flight home. We found Duluth to be a very nice area and picturesque. I know that my husband would even enjoy it so we might plan a trip another time! Thanks to all for the preparations and planning that went into making the Convention so memorable for us. Pat Figurowski, Br. 20, Joliet, IL The New Neighborhood Online Comments by Lynn Zalokar Connecting Members: “I received a number of replies regarding a request for ‘Warm Cucumbers.’ Got the recipe via this service. Just wanted you to know the success of the newsletter.” “Thanks to this letter, I found Mary Urban’s site regarding marriages and births in the Waukegan area. What a help!” “Thanks for the interesting newsletter. 1 really enjoyed it. I will e-mail the person who asks for a copy of Triglav as I will be able to help her and would get a copy to her immediately.” Known all over the USA and Slovenia too! “Greetings from Minnesota and CONGRATULATIONS on another great newsletter.” “Now 1 am asking you to send the newsleter to my granddaughter who is a senior at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. She is gathering geneology information about her ancestry.” “Thank you for making information about Slovenia & Slovenian people everywhere available by e-mail. The news is heart warming and always a joy to read! Many thanks from Boise, Idaho.” "Do you think it would be possible for you to send this newsletter to my cousins up in Cleveland too? I keep telling them of these wonderful stories that I read about and they would love to be able to read the stories themselves.” (from a high school senior!) “.. .they were from out of state and visiting in Chicago. Jonita then asked them how they found out about the museum - they said the NEWSLETTER!!! The story gets better-they became members, purchased at least $100 in heritage items and are interested in taking the 75th Anniversary Trip.” “I am a student in Slovenia. A friend from America sent me a few issues of your online newsletter and I liked it so much that I would like to subscribe to it... Continue doing the good work you are doing.” Not to be missed! “I don’t know why I am not getting your e-mails any more, but I sure do miss them. Can you get me back on the list, please.” “Please change the e-mail address for me. I enjoy reading the SWUA information and don’t want to miss an edition.” “Thank you for the newsletter. It’s wonderful...” To get the New Neighborhood newsletter all you have to do is sign on with Lynn at: Izalokar (o yahoo.com BOOK/VIDEO REVIEW “An American Rhapsody” I was fortunate to win a gift bag of "heritage items” at the recent national convention in Duluth. "An American Rhapsody" starring Natassja Kinski, Scarlette Johansson and Tony Goldwyn was one of the items. Watching this with my two teen age grandsons. Matt and Nick Voelk, proved its worth. “An American Rhapsody" is based on a true story, beginning in 1960’s in Hungary during a period of oppressive Communist rule. A young Hungarian couple make a daring escape in their flight to freedom, but with one unthinkable price, they leave their infant daughter Suzanne behind. How could someone dare an escape under such iron rule, it would be unthinkable to leave your child? Six years later Suzanne is uprooted from her upbringing in Hungary and returned to her mother and father in California. This is a movie the entire family can view together. It is moving, and gives true meaning to what family and home are all about. MLV “We Made It Through the Winter” A Memoir of Northern Minnesota Boyhood by Walter O'Meara This book was published in 1974 and the author a native Minnesotan who looks back to a specific year in his childhood (1906). He wrote the book for his children and grandchildren describing season by season the things he did (like stacking wood and snaring rabbits to help out with family meals) and the fun he had (fishing, skating, skiing, berrypicking). “Timber was the lifestuff’ is the way he describes the sawmill town of Cloquet (so much so that a tragic fire in 1918 destroyed the wooden town!) There are plenty of references to food including what I thought was only a Slovenian dish: “As the end of winter grew near, my mother began to crave ‘greens.’ The first plants to appear after the snow had melted were dandelions and as soon as they poked out of the ground she sent me with a basket and kitchen knife to gather some. While still very young and tender, they made excellent pot greens, served with a little butter, vinegar, or bacon drippings; or they could even be eaten uncooked as a green salad.” It’s nostalgic to read of much simpler times, but one can also see that there was much more work in every day living too! Submitted by A Duluth Convention Attendee Br. 20, Joliet, Illinois Officers in the Celebration Year of 2003 Front row: Sister Marlene Ambrose, Reporter, Charles Kobe, President, Fr. Tom Paul, Spiritual Advisor, Agnes Dobczyk, Vice President and Grace Doerk, Secretary; 2nd row: Bernice Nemanich, Auditor, Jean Herbst, Financial Secretary, Jo Lustik, Auditor, Kathy Stonich, Sargent at Arms and Mary Kay Demick, Auditor. BRIEF HISTORY OF BRANCH 20 June 11, 1928: Two years after Slovenska Ženska Zveza v Ameriki (Slovenian Women’s Union of America) was formed, Br. 20 of Joliet, 1L organized. Within six months, membership grew to 292. 1928-1936: Within the next eight years, a Sewing Circle, and a Bowling League were formed. 1938: Emma Planinšek and Josephine Erjavec organized the Br. 20 Cadets for young girls and women. 1939: the Junior Circle of Br. 20 was formed, performing Slovenian dances dressed in Slovenian national costumes. The Union headquarters moved from Chicago to Joliet. 1940’s and 50’s: The first Zveza Day (with Chicago Br. 2) was held in Lemont in 1940 organized by Emma Planinšek. Br. 20 collected over $50,000 in War Bond sales. 1942: Josephine Erjavec, Emma Planinšek and Mary C. Terlep organized the Junior Drill Team. As the girls got older, they could become Championship Cadets. Oct. 24, 1943: Br. 20 celebrated its 15th Anniversary with the dedication of the Slovenian flag and the Jr. Cadets’ banner and uniforms. 194(1-1964: Teams from the Br. 20 bowling league placed first in the SWUA Midwest Bowling Tournament 10 of those years! The Br. 20 Cadets and Baton Twirlers won numerous national awards. By 1953, the Senior Championship Drill Team won 1st place at three consecutive national conventions. May, 1951: Br. 20 recognized its first “Woman of the Year,” Emma Planinšek. Oct. 25, 1953: The officers and members of Br. 20 gathered to reflect with pride and love their many accomplishments at their 25th Anniversary celebration. September 23, 1973: Br 20 observed their 45th Anniversary with Mass at St. Joseph Church followed by dinner at the newly founded American Slovenian Home. June 12, 1977: Br. 20 sponsored the first Midwest Heritage Festival at St Joseph park, featuring four polka bands in- cluding the Frankie Yankovic Orchestra, along with presentations and booths. Due to its success, the festival was held again in 1978 and 1980 and proceeds used to establish the Slovenian Heritage Museum in the SWUA National Office. Sept. 17, 1978: The Golden Jubilee celebration was celebrated with a Mass, banquet, program and music. Thirty-three 50-year members were honored. Fall 1980: Rudolph Pucel served as the first mayor at Br. 20's first Grape Festival (Vinska Trgatev). Proceeds are used for members’ dues over 80 and for the Scholarship Fund. May, 1987: Br. 20 hosted the 20th National SWUA Convention and 60th Anniversary Celebration. 1988: Br. 20 hosted the Regional Convention in conjunction with its own 60th Anniversary celebration. The first Br. 20 Scholarship recipients, Tanya Cepon. Mary Lou Golf. Tamara Gregorash, Colleen Gunier and Pamela Lodewyck were honored at the "Woman of the Year” Banquet. 1991 to 1993: Br. 20 actively lobbied for an independent Slovenia. They participated in a relief effort for refugees and victims of the wars in Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia. Oct. 3, 1993: Br. 20 celebrated their 65th Anniversary during the Regional Convention. The reunion of the SWUA Drill Team Cadets highlighted the occasion. May, 1994: The first Br. 20 Continuing Education Scholarship was awarded to Rose Valek. 1999: Br. 20 expanded their scholarship awards to include: 1) Graduating 8th grader attending a Catholic HS, 2) Current Catholic high school student, and 3) Adult continuing educational student. June 18, 2000: Fr. David Stalzar, Spiritual Director of Br. 20 and SWUA Heritage Museum Director, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Fr. Dave committed himself to perpetuating Slovenian Heritage. Sept. 2000: Fr. Tom Paul named Br. 20 Spiritual Director. 2001: Br. 20 member, Theresa Rozman Lockwood, was 75th Anniversary Celebration - Branch 20, Joliet, Illinois On October 5, 2003, Slovenian Women’s Union of America Branch 20 will hold its 75th Anniversary Celebration. Though originally organized by many first generation Slovenian women, the organization now includes men, women and youth, many of which are second, third or fourth generation Slovenian-Americans. Br. 20 has not only been very active in the national organization, but also in the local Joliet community, and in particular in the parish community of St. Joseph Church. Everyone is invited to join the members and officers of SWU Br. 20 at the 75th Anniversary Celebration. The Program of the Day o Saturday, October 4 from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. - Wine & cheese Open House at the Heritage Museum and Library o 8:30 a.m. -Champagne Breakfast in Ferdinand Hall (behind St. Joseph Church) followed by 9:30 State Convention meeting, o 11:30 a.m. - Mass at St. Joseph Church (416 N. Chicago St.) with Slovenian singing o 1:00 p.m. - Dinner at St. George Social Hall, 310 Stryker Ave. Entertainment by the renowned “Singing Slovenes” from Duluth, Minnesota and also, the Joliet Croatian Kolo Dancers and; music for dancing by Bruce Korosa Orchestra. Mistress of Ceremonies is Mildred Pucel. Guest of Honor, Fr. Frank Perkovich from Gilbert, Minnesota, known for his original Polka Mass! Tickets $35 with cash bar. Advance reservations required. A committee headed by well-known Jolietans. SWU Nat’l. Treasurer, Jonita Ruth, Br. 20 Volunteer, Patricia Figurowski, and Spiritual Advisor, Fr. Tom Paul are heading the celebration that will bring many to Br. 20’s 75th Anniversary. Send reservations and check by Sept. 15th to: Heidi Domark, 1906 Hampton Ct., Plainfield, IL 60544 Ph: (815) 436-3180. Slovenian costumes are a beautiful, proud reminder of our heritage. If you have one, please wear it, especially for Mass! For more information, call Jonita Ruth (815) 726-6990 or Pat Figurowski (815) 741-1863. Fr. Tom Paul “The Singing Slovenes” The Singing Slovenes is a performing troupe from Duluth, Minnesota area whose mission is to preserve Slovenian music and cultural heritage. The composition of the troupe boasts a wide and varied number of nationalities, representing the countries of Slovenia, Croatia, Macedonia, Italy, Germany, Denmark, Poland, France, Norway, Finland, and Sweden. Performing traditional Slovenian and other Slavic melodies, the troupe perpetuates the artistic nature of their respective nationalities. Sharing the joy of their musical heritage helps promote good fellowship and love of their neighbors through the use of their time and talents. These performances are educational as well as entertaining. Promoting fellowship through music and cultural education, the Singing Slovenes share their national heritages and preserve them for current and future generations. Frank Bucar is the Musical Director and Mary Spehar White (on the photo) is the Asst. Director. Mary and Frank's wife, Sharon are members of Br. 33 in Duluth. Joliet welcomes the Singing Slovenes and is happy that accompanying them will be a group of SWUA members from Minnesota’s Iron Range headed by Anita Vovk. ♦ Br. 20 History continued: named National Heritage Director for SWUA. Fall 2001: Br. 20 members joined the SWUA 75th Anniversary “Tour to Slovenia” including a 75th Anniversary Celebration at Bogensperk Castle, and a Memorial Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Marija Pomagaj in Brezje. Members also visited the Marija Pomagaj Chapel in the National Shrine Basilica in Washington, D.C., for a 75th Anniversary Mass. It was the 30th Anniversary of the Chapel. March 9, 2002: “Slovenian Jubilej” celebrated both the 75th Anniversary of Slovenian Women’s Union, and the 25th Anniversary of the recently remodeled Home Office in Joliet. March 28, 2003: The oldest member of Br. 20, Anna Petrie, died at the age of 102. 2003: Br. 20 members exceed their goal of recruiting 75 new members commemorating their 75th Anniversary. October 5,2003: Celebration of Br. 20’s 75th Anniversary Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Program Expands! Nicholas Kuhar, Branch 25, son of Stan and Marge Kuhar, Wickliffe, Ohio was the 2003 recipient of the Josef Princ Award. He has submitted the following in regards to his heritage and culture. Cultural Trip to Slovenia is Travel Award We are very pleased to announce a new SWUA Travel Award which will be offered to two young people between the ages of 18 and 26 for two weeks during the month of July 2004. This cultural trip to Slovenia is being sponsored by the University of Ljubljana student organization. The SWU Scholarship Committee will select two applicants and fund their travel expenses. Applications and information can be obtained from Anita Vovk of Branch 35, assisted by Lisa Ochsendorf and Kathleen Wheeler. Anita has researched this educational opportunity and will be chairing this project, serving as the liaison between the University of Ljubljana and the SWU Scholarship Program. Funding for several years of this award will be supplied from the SWU Scholarship's certificate of deposit. The Travel Award and method of funding was approved at the 2003 SWU National Convention. A special account will accept donations to the Travel Award as designated by the donor. Tax exempt donations WILL NOT be used for this award. SWU Foundation bylaws state that all tax exempt donations are to be used to fund scholarships for colleges, technical schools, universities only. See page 16 for Travel Award information. My Heritage & Culture by Nicholas Kuhar My mother was bom in Slovenia and emigrated to the United States when she was approximately eight years old. Her mother was imprisoned for approximately Five years as a manual laborer for the Slovenian Communists along with other members of her family. “Stara mama" left Slovenia in the early 1960s. My father was born in Cleveland, Ohio to Slovenian emigres who fled Slovenia after World War II due to their religious beliefs as Catholics and opposition to communism in Slovenia. My “stari ata” was also a prisoner of war during World War II. My father’s parents were granted permission to emigrate to the United States after a five year period in a displacement camp in lower Austria. They originally emigrated to Minnesota. After one-year they resettled in Cleveland, Ohio due to the number of Slovenian emigrees who were settling in Cleveland. Since then both my mother and father and their families became and remained parishioners at St. Vitus Parish. The majority of our activity in Greater Cleveland has revolved around St. Vitus Parish. I was able to attend St. Vitus School for Pre-School and Kindergarten until our family moved to Wickliffe, Ohio, a suburb in Lake County, approximately 12 miles east of Cleveland. I was also able to attend the Saturday Slovenian School at St. Vitus for a number of years as well be a Mass server for the parish. 1 had the opportunity to be a Mass server in 1998 when the Baraga Days were held in Cleveland for then visiting Archbishop Franc Rode. The past four years have primarily revolved around high school activities such as marching, pep, and big bands, as well as jazz combo and a year of running track. I have also volunteered for benefit dinners, summer picnics, or helping with Christmas decorations at St. Vitus plus one semester of sophomore service as part of the theology program at St. Ignatius High School. The one Slovenian tradition we still maintain is a family dinner, followed by praying of the Rosary and the blessing of our house on Christmas Eve. We then open presents and attend Midnight Mass at St. Vitus Church. I feel fortunate to have had these experiences as well as other experiences I will have in the coming years in college. Again, thank you for this opportunity offered by the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS June and July 2003 We thank our many kind donors of this past year who have enabled us to award five $1,000 scholarships during 2003. William Slogar of Ely, Minnesota, never seems to forget us. God bless you. Bill! $5.00 donation: Branch 35, Aurora, MN (tAnn Wangler) $10.00 donations: William Slogar (tDonald Robertson), William Slogar (tRudy Rom), William Slogar (tDan Erzar) $20.00 donation: Hermine Dicke - gift to Scholarship Fund $50.00 donation: Branch 35, Aurora, MN - gift to Scholarship Fund $475.00 1 donations received from National Secretary and transferred to Scholarship Fund For donations or questions, please contact: Mary H. Turvey, Director, 52 Oakridge Drive, Marquette, Michigan 49855 or MTurvey@aol.com History of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America Scholarship Program Fifty years ago, the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Fund was established and since that time $114,725.00 has been awarded to 289 students. The Slovenian Women’s Union must take pride in aiding the educational development of young women and men as leaders of our American and Slovenian society. Marie Prisland, Founder of the Slovenian Women’s Union in 1926 and Founder of the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Fund in 1949 gave the following account of it’s inception. “At the 1943 National Convention in Pittsburgh I was delighted when the delegates enthusiastically adopted my proposal that a fund be established to financially aid needy, young, qualified students. To this fund was later added a benefit fund to extend help to our war-torn people in native Slovenia. At the January 1944 Supreme Board Meeting the bylaws governing this fund were finalized, setting a goal of $10,000 to be divided: $5,000 for scholarship and $5,000 for Slovenian relief. Through the sale of greeting cards, contributions from the branches and individual members and the formation of a Friendship Circle with $20.00 memberships, the goal was attained 5 years later with Zveza contributing the first $200.00. Consequently at the 1949 National Convention held in Pueblo, Colorado, the Scholarship Fund started to operate. It was the first of its kind among the Slovenian organizations in America. Through the benefit Fund, purchase of Hour, sugar, coffee, lard, household articles, school supplies, medicine, hospital instruments, sewing machines, etc. were sent to various critical areas in Slovenia; actually with additional relief sent by the individual branches a total of $34,000.00 in financial value in food and goods was sent to Slovenia in the post-war period. Photo is from Marie Prisland’s personal collection: “I organized a group of Red Cross workers in the first World War. I wanted this picture to be in the book “From Slovenia - to America.” The picture was not used and was lost. This is the only copy of the Slovenian Women’s Club Red Cross Workers during World War I. Sheboygan, Wisconsin 1917.” (Marie is fourth from right, second row.) When in 1949 the announcement of scholarships was published in ZARJA, five boys and one girl applied. Three were selected for the 1949-1950 year on the basis of their high scholastic records and need of financial aid. * * * * * The Scholarship Fund Program continues to thrive today due to the generous support and continued interest of our members and friends. It is the hard work of our donors and dedicated Scholarship Fund directors that have "kept our dream alive;” the wish of all who have inherited a rich, treasured culture, that our young people will preserve and promote our precious Slovene traditions and history for generations to come. Kelsey Iowa Scholarship Winner Kelsey Singletary, daughter of George and Janice Singletary of Ankeny, Iowa has been awarded the 2003 Virginia Frye - Denver Bennett Scholarship. The Department of Health and Human Performance at Iowa State University presented Kelsey with the scholarship at their annual spring awards ceremony on April 26, 2003. This $1,000 scholarship recognizes a junior level student majoring in sports management who exhibits early potential for career success, has achieved high academic standing and has served the department and profession through curriculum clubs, professional organizations and service projects. Kelsey was a recipient of a SWU scholarship in 2(X)0. “Help Keep the Dream Alive!” by contributing to the SWUA Scholarship Fund Happy School days to all our students returning to school this month! New! SWUA Slovenia Travel Award ■fei I B J9L~ The SWUA announces an award to send two young adults to Slovenia for a two week tour in July 2004. This tour is hosted by the University of Ljubljana Student Organization. This program provides guided tours to many of the tourist attractions, cultural events and informal language classes. Following is a summary of the guidelines and application process: 1.) Applicants must be 18-26 years of age ( 18 by December. 31. 2003 ) - have held a membership (paid-up) for the past 3 years 2.) Applicants must write an essay of 100 words or more (double-spaced) - tell why applicant wishes to receive the Travel Award, how will this experience help them to generate new members into the SWUA. and how will they use this experience to promote the Slovenian heritage 3.) Must include a resume - include applicant's heritage background and photo 4.) A recommendation by their branch officer must be included. 5.) Within two (2) months of return, winners will submit - an article which will appear in the "Zarja" and a photo or two from the tour 1 he SWUA Travel Award will cover cost of airfare and $xx dollars for incidentals. Applications are to be mailed to: Mary Turvey, Scholarship Director 52 Oakridge l)r. Marquette, Michigan, 49855 ** All applications must be received by December I, 2003 For more information on the SWUA Travel Award, contact: Anita Vovk 719 Knuti Dr. Aurora. MN 55705-1212 Phone: (218) 229-3202 amv@cpinternet.com Kathleen Wheeler 16917 Marlborough Circle Minnetonka. MN 55345 Phone: (952) 935-7441 Cell: (612) 803-9416 kwheeler@coinpassmail.com Lisa Ochsendorf 6096 145th St. N. Hugo. MN 55038 Phone: (651)653-5215 Ifo 1968@hotmail.com We are anxious for our members to take part in this offer and wish each one GOOD LUCK!!! Ask Tončka! Geoea ‘Connecting young adults with their Slovenian Heritage” Dear Tončka: In working on Slovenian genealogy I am coming across names like Frank, Herbst, Krauz, that seem to be German. Then there are names that end in “itsch" such as Gerbitsch, Lauritsch, Ribitsch that seem Croatian. Why are there such variations in Slovenian surnames? Hvala. Meta Dear Meta: Interesting observation! It appears you may be doing some research in the Kočevje region, south east of Ljubljana. The very ancient peoples of this region, at one time that is, before immigration, are called the Gottscheers. In c. 1300 the Carinthian Counts of Ortenburg brought in colonists from the German dioceses of Salzburg, Brixen and Freising. Those colonists cleared the heavily forested land at the time but yet maintained some of their ethnic and linguistic traits for centuries to come until about 1870 when immigration to the United States began. During 1941, a larger population was relocated by the Third Reich, when it became an Italian possession for a time. The Gottscheee area consists of 331 square miles and contains 180 villages organized into 31 townships and parishes. For genealogists the good news is that much of its church records, dating from the late 1600’s have been microfilmed and available through the LDS Library. The problem is that many of the villages are identified as German names, yet have Slovenian names as well. In the Catholic Parish of Gottschee, alone, here is an example of some of the interchangeable village names: German: Gottschee (city) Grafenfeld Hasenfeld Katsendorf Lienfeld Schwarzenbach Seele Slovenian: Kočevje Dolga vas Zajčja vas Mačka vas Livold Črni potok Zel nje For additional information on the Gottscheers and their genealogy, contact, “Surnames in Gottschee, 639 Surnames of Gottschee from 1890 to 1941,” Hutter, Martha. “Gottschee: Family Records Research Using LDS Microfilm,” Pruente, Kate. Gottschee website: http://www.gottschee.org/ghga/ how.htm. Address of "The Gottschee Tree Journal” (very well done and full of interesting data): The Gottschee Tree, P.O. Box 725, Louisville, Colorado 80027-0725, Editor, Liz Nick. Happy Hunting, Meta and to all of our readers! Tončka Photo of Jenn and Stephanie at Slap Savica Zdravo. Dober dan. Me veseli. Oprostite. Na zdravje. These are just a few of the words we learned during our two weeks of traveling through Slovenia in July. This unique opportunity to experience the beauty, culture and language of the country was sponsored by the Student Organization of the University of Ljubljana and the Ministry ol Foreign Affairs. The program. Connecting Young Adults with Slovenian Heritage, is in its second year and was lead by Robi Strah, a student at the University of Ljubljana. The group included fifteen young adults from the U.S. and Canada between the ages of 18 and 26. all of Slovenian descent. The tour commenced in Ljubljana with an introduction to the country and walking tour of the city. Once we started moving, there wasn’t much time to slow down. We first traveled to the Notranjska region, where we hiked in Rakov Škocjan and visited the sight of the disappearing Cerknica Lake. We also visited Krizna jama, using carbide lamps to navigate our way into the home that cave bears once roamed. One of the most picturesque places we visited was Lake Bled. The view from Bled castle is breathtaking and the famous kremšnite dessert was undeniably a highlight of the day! We hiked through Triglav National Park and climbed to the impressive Slap Savica. Please turn page SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2003 /17 After a walking tour of historic Škofja Loka, we departed for the Adriatic coast where we visited the beautiful cities of Portorož and Piran. We rafted down the Soča River in Tolmin and had a wine tasting at the Bužinel vineyard in Medana. Goriška brda. We enjoyed a boat ride to Izola where we swam in the Adriatic Sea and played volleyball on the beach in Portorož. We also visited Lipica, the home of the famous Lipizzaner horses. From Portorož we walked through Postojnska jama and Predjamski castle, then drove towards Novo mesto, where we visited the Prus vineyard in Metlika. Bela Krajina. From there, we traveled to Pleterje to visit the Carthusian Monastery, founded in the 15th century. We stopped in Laško for a tour and tasting at the Laško brewery before making our way to Maribor, home of the oldest grapevine in the world. During our stay in Ptuj, we swam in the hot springs near the city and visited the Ptuj castle. The conclusion of our trip took us back to Ljubljana. We shared one last dinner together and enjoyed the clubs in the city. We were lucky to have a great group of people traveling together. Our hosts. Robi Strah. Karmen Mihelčič. Erma Stanonik, Jani Dagarin and Gasper Peternelj were phenomenal and their kindness and hospitality was greatly appreciated. On behalf of the whole group, we would like to thank the Student Organization of the University of Ljubljana and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a wonderful experience! Slovenia is a beautiful country and we look forward to visiting again! Stephanie Polutnik and Jennifer Polutnik Schlater Lorain, Ohio Anita Vovk: “Hands On at Iron world” Monday, July 21, 2003, twenty-five young children ages 7-12 were registered for a 5-day camp experience. On this particular day, the group was to experience Christmas in Italy, Ireland, Slovenia. Finland and Norway. Barb Vodovnik and myself, wearing our Gorenjska National Costumes, were there to represent Slovenia and to tell the stories of Sveti Miklavž and the Božične praznike, their customs and traditions and holiday foods. We brought with us maps, print-outs of Christmas stories, written by children in Slovenija, a list ot Christmas words, greetings, and phrases in English and Slovenian and even a Christmas song, "Sveti Večer" (Holy Night.) 1 made "Lect Piškote" "Sveti Miklavž" and potica for the children to taste and told them the story of St. Nicholas and the celebration of his feast day, December 6. We told them how to make the "Dough Nativity Scene" and encouraged them to make this a family project. 1 would like to hear what the parents thought after the children brought home and discussed all ol this with them. I would encourage Ironworld to continue this program and certainly each time they will find ways to improve it. 1 enjoyed the children and hope that it is a success and would be willing to participate again if needed. FAMILY HERITAGE PHOTO GALLERY Hello, Again! This is just a quick reminder to all that we wish wish to have your old Family Photos for the SWUA Heritage Museum Photo Gallery. The older the photos are, the better! People seem to be so interested in them. We do need more, though. All will be on display permanently in the Museum. Please follow these instructions: • No originals! Copy your photo on a good copy machine. • Make all 8 x 10, print them in black and white only - any photo can be made this size. • Use photocopy paper only, not regular paper. • Preferred are 5 to 20 photos for a set, but no more than 20. • Write a brief caption with each photo separately. telling the names, dates, place, occupation ot the subjects. Give information on anything of interest, wedding photos, early years, reunions, naturalization papers, ship manifests, family portraits. • Give brief summary history. Send them to me and I will do the rest. Hope to hear from you! Thanks. Nancy Henkel 2534 East 150 Road Peru. IL 61343 Tel. (815) 223-2453 Magic Month Calendar in this issue! Use the calendar in this issue (center of ZARJA) for one ONE MONTH FUND RAISER, the Magic Month Calendar for January. 2004. Each day in January. there will be one winner named. There are TWO $500 drawings, namely, on New Year s Day, January 1st and on the last Sunday, January 25th. All other Sundays in January will have $300 winners and each day a $100 winner will be drawn! Can you beat this? If every member of our SWUA would buy or sell two calendars it would be a most profitable fund-raiser for our Heritage Museum. Hope you will all look for the Calendar in this ZARJA, use it for yourself or a friend, and order more from your Branch Officers, or from the SWUA Home Office. 431 N. Chicago St.. Joliet. 1L 60432, call by telephone. (815) 727-1926, or contact us by e-mail: swuhometfi msn.com or go to our webpage: www.swua.org. Good luck to all! Pat Figurowski, Co-Chairman SUZANA ZUPANCIC-BRATHWAITE 482 Montgomery St., 2B Brooklyn, NY 11225 Slovenski otroci in mladina Hello to all of you. It has been a long time since I last wrote, but 1 promise that you will be hearing from me on this page every two months. Remember to learn 5 new words from our photo dictionary each time and if you need any help, please write me. I am here for you! Enjoy... KNJIŽNE POLICE - BOOKSHELVES Dominik Mrvar - Najpomembnejše v življenju "The most important things in life” by Dominik Mrvar Dominik Mrvar is a 12-year old Slovenian boy, who, like most children, likes to ask questions. On his 12th birthday he asked his family what was the most important thing in their lives. His parents told him that the most important thing for them is the family circle: FAMILY, HEALTH AND HAPPINESS. His parents also told Dominik that every family has a different make-up of things that are important. His uncle gave him the idea to write a letter to well-known Slovenians (president, reporters, athletes etc.) asking them the same important question. He got many responses. The following is the one that impressed me: »Da se vsak človek zaveda svoje enkratnosti in hodi po poli, ki je samo njegova.« »That every person walks his own unique path...« »Da znamo biti strpni do drugih in do njihove drugačnosti.« »That we know how to be patient with others and recognize their individuality...« »Da se znamo veseliti življenja in se zavedati, kako pomembne in dragocene so čisto vsakdanje stvari.« »That we know how to be happy, realizing how important and worthwhile are everyday things...« »Da nam je pomembnejše biti kot imeti in smo lahko samo v sobivanju z drugimi.« »That the most important thing is who we are and not what we have because only in this way we can co-exist with others..,« Metka Klevšar, prevajalka, avtorica knjig (translator, author) After reading Dominik’s book I asked myself to look at my family circle. I decided that I would write him and do hope he will answer. I will then be able to share his letter with all of you. Ask your family and friends, what is the most important thing in their lives and please share it with me and all our readers. autumn - jesen KINDERGARTEN VRTEC VINEYARD VINOGRAD GRAPE GROZDJE MASK MASKA PUMPKIN BUČA SLOVENIAN INTERNET -SLOVENSKI INTERNET When I was looking around I came across web site http://home.amis.net/ivanusaa/rono/index.html where you can read a story about Rabbit Ron, who is traveling around the wonderland. I must say that I am sad that web site is just in the Slovenian language, but next to each story there are beautiful graphics and great maps. Children, ask your parents to go on http:// www.geocities. com!A t hens/1 thaca/5612/4sprites. htm and print out a story THE FOUR SEASONS SPRITES by Marko Simcic. It is also in English... Isn’t that great? And do not forget to read more about the author as well. And when you are done, please send me what you thought about this story and also draw a picture. I am asking parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Please show this page and pass it along to children/teens of Slovenian descent. Please e-mail me, write me, send me stories, drawings etc. I am asking parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles of the children who were in SWUA Camp Heritage in Duluth to write down what they were doing, likes and dislikes, drawings etc. E-mail me at Suzi@stmdesigning.com or use regular mail: Suzana Zupan-čič-Brathwaite, 482 Montgomery St., #2F, Brooklyn, NY 11225. Activities of our Branches Reports due first of month preceding publication. NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Founding Dale: DECEMBER 1. 1926 Meeting: 2nd Thurs. St. Stephen's lower hall Zveza Picnie/Lemont July 20 - Thanks to the attendees, workers, and contributors, the picnic was a success with everyone’s help. Mother nature gave us a beautiful day! We had good food, good times, good music (thanks, Vince), and good visiting, it was nice to see so many members from our sister branches and also the national officers. Many thanks to Br. #33 and especially to Bev Menart who worked very hard as chairperson for our 24th National Convention and also for introducing us to her beautiful city of Duluth. MN. There were 6 members of Br. #2 who attended and we had a great time meeting others enjoying the activities that were planned; potica contest, bobbin lace-making, silent auction, hand-made items from Slovenia, the dinner cruise on Lake Superior, banquet and how we enjoyed the “Singing Slovenes”, their music and performance, Ironworld and Sleeper House, Polka Mass and a delicious dinner. We had excellent weather so we could really get out and see the city. Duluth is situated on Lake Superior, the area is very hilly, some said it reminded them of a city in Italy and others said it looked like a little San Francisco. At one time the city had many warehouses because of the iron ore industry; now these have been converted into cute little shops, hotels, lots of restaurants, sport bars and of course, they have a casino... We enjoyed walking along the lake front on the shores of Lake Superior; there were many bikers, skaters and runners each day. They have erected a beautiful Vietnam Memorial in honor of all those who served. It is also a city of many and unusual bridges. We also enjoyed the little buses that took you around the city from place to place, the drivers were very friendly and would tell you of different places to go to eat or just sight seeing. I hope some day you all will make your sum- mer trip to northern Minnesota. There are so many places to visit and things to see and the people are very friendly. (For any changes with SWU, please read the officers’ reports). In four years our next convention will take place in Illinois. Dates to remember: Sept. 28 - Grape Festival - St. Joseph Park/Joliet. It is always a fun time. Doors Open 3:00 p.m. (Time 4-8:00 p.m.) Food and Live music. Sept. 21 - will be our first meeting tor the fall - hope to see everyone. If you have any prizes for the Penny Social, please bring them. Oct. 4 - Saturday before the IL-IN Convention and 75th of Br. 20 will be a gathering time for members and guests at a wine and cheese party at the Home Office. Oct. 5 - Illinois/Indiana Convention - Joliet, IL. Sunday - Convention meeting 9:30 a.m. and Holy Mass 11:00 a.m. in Slovenian at St. Joseph Church. 75th Anniversary Banquet and program will take place at 1:00 p.m. at St. George Social Hall (Striker Ave.) For those leaving St. Stephen’s transportation will be available. Please contact Dolores Puhek for more information (773) 579-1959. Just heard that the Minnesota Singing Slovenes will be in Joliet Oct. 5th for entertainment at the 75th Anniversary of Br. 20! Great! November 16 - Penny Social -12:00 o’clock Greetings to all our stay at homes and sick members. Hope you had a nice summer; wish there was a way we could keep it with us longer. Now we are back again to enjoy the splendor of autumn, when you will be enjoying the shades of burnt oranges, yellows and rust - the changing of the seasons. Try to get out and watch the different colors of nature, it all goes so quickly. Remember our service personnel in your prayers. Love, DAISY NO. 5, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Founding Date: JANUARY 15, 1927 Meeting: 1st Thurs. SND, from May to Dec. Greetings, Branch 5 members!! Hope this finds you well and enjoying our wet and wild weather summer. It is August already! I’m sure all our junior members are anxiously awaiting the first day of school!! I know I am ready, because my summer job is to clean St. Malachy School and get it ready for the fall session, so when school starts it is like a vacation for me!! I hope all of our members are able to stop by the new Haughville Branch Library on Michigan Street. It opened with a nice ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Mayor Bart Peterson and several family members of the original Haugh family. The Haughville Library is the longest continuously operating branch in Indianapolis, and the newest addition to the renovations of the neighborhood around Holy Trinity Church. Our SWU Branch #5 donated money for a fireplace in the library tutoring/ study/reading room, along with several other Slovenian groups. Stop in and see our name on the bronze plaque by the fireside!! We are reminding members to pass on info about joining SWUA. We will once again be handing out applications at the Slovenefest, but there are always forms in your ZARJA and on-line. Sign up someone today! The Slovenian Cultural Society is sponsoring a dance on Sunday, Sept. 21 at Holy Trinity. It will be a noon Mass and a dance to follow at the Slovenian National Home. Bob Doszak will be there to provide us with the polka music we all love! Bring your families for a treat they will long remember!! Contact Phyllis Fon for ticket info (852-9850). Our annual SWU mass will be Sunday, October 5, at 9:00 a.m. Mass, followed by our favorite “KROFE & KOFFEE” breakfast in Bockhold Hall. Please plan to join us. Also, please plan to attend one of the many events being held at Holy Trinity this fall. KSKJ is hosting "BARAGA DAYS" the weekend of Sept. 13th— 14th, and watch/listen for info on Piran Church restorations to be presented by Fr. Zorko Bajc, the priest from Slovenia who will be here for several weeks staying with Fr. KT at Holy Trinity. He is being sponsored by the Indianapolis Piran Sister City Committee and will give several presentations around Indy and will do a Mass in Italian at Holy Rosary. Watch for info in the church, and Indy Star. As always, please remember our sick members and our deceased members. Pray for the continuing safe return of our friends and family in the Armed Forces, and for the families of those who have given their lives for peace. Have a wonderful autumn, and see you around the town!!! Your Prez, PHYLLIS NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH Founding Dale: MARCH S. 1927 Meeting: 4th Wed. 1 p.m. SND Holmes Ave. Went to the Convention in Duluth and it was very interesting. The committee did a wonderful job and everything was well-planned. I'd like to extend congratulations to the new National Officers for the term of 2004— 2007. Back to Br. 10 news. We will have a meeting Sept. 24th at Collinwood Slovenian Home, 1 p.m. Please try to attend because we have to finalize plans for the Ohio-Michigan State Convention which is right around the corner, Oct. 12th. Mass will be at our beautiful St. Mary's Church, 15601 Holmes Ave., at 12 noon, dinner following (@$15 per person) in the church cafeteria. We need the help of our members. Please call me at (216) 451-1876, or call Kathleen Dorehak, (330) 686-1836. Hope you will all attend. To all our ailing members, God bless you and good health to all! STEPHANIE SEGULIN NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Founding Dale: OCTOBER 31. 1927 Meeting: 3rd Thurs. St. Peter’s Church Hall except July & Aug. Hope everyone enjoyed the summer months. I went to a few picnics where many of our members also attended. I always enjoy the picnics, being with friends and having a good time outdoors. At the June meeting we had a small crowd. Virginia Strukel had a picnic lunch ready for us and afterward we had our meeting. Best wishes to Christine Krebs who had a knee replacement at Elmbrook Hospital. She is home and recuperating now. Her sister, Josephine passed away a few weeks ago. She lived at Brookfield Regency for 6 years. Rose and I went with Tini to her sister’s New Year's party in January at the Regency. They had polka music, good food and drinks. We watched everyone having so much fun. Virginia, who was our delegate to the National Convention in Duluth gave an interesting talk on her duties as a delegate. A younger crowd is taking the reins of the organization and these young women were friendly and fun to be with. She really enjoyed the convention. Theresa Fedran had her cousin, Arlene from California visiting her for a few days. They went to Eau Claire for a reunion with her son, Jimmy, a lawyer. Nellie Zietlow and Florence Guenther went to Italy for 8 days with Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan. There were 200 people on the tour and visited many cities including Rome where they saw the Pope and waited with a large group of people outdoors while the Pope drove by and walked up the steps. The Archbishop was presented a white hat and tolem. They had a good time - it was 96 degrees at that time. Our Christmas Party will Dec. 4th at I p.m. at Kegel’s Inn, 5901 W. National Ave. The food is good there and they serve apple and cherry strudel. We will need door prizes and raffles. STAV1A DOBERSEK NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Founding Dare: OCTOBER 30. 1927 Meeting: 1st Thursday Slovenian Hall on Mariposa St. We haven’t met during the summer so I am looking forward to getting back together in September. Ceta Zagar and I attended the National Convention in Duluth, Minn. We had a marvelous time and our accommodations were excellent. Many thanks to the Convention Chairman, Beverly Menart. The food was outstanding and they do have the best wild rice soup in Minnesota! The meetings were very informative and well presented. I had the honor of chairing a focus group with delegates, Jean Herbst, Gladys Bom, Agnes Mattson, Valerie Bohince and Betty Ann Kolesari. These women were so enthusiastic and knowledgeable and had so many good ideas, I was proud to give their report. I am also so pleased to say Betty Ann is our new National Vice President. Above all what we bring home from a Convention are the life-long friendships we made there. I was so happy to see Dorothy Jamnick visiting. She has had a whole lot to handle in the last year, but has made a fantatic recovery so she could make this trip. We got in a lot of “hugs” - God bless you, Dorothy. There were so many ladies I got to hug after four years apart. This is Sisterhood! Thank you, Beverly Menart for a job well done and I was proud to have served on the Nat’l. Board the last four years. We are so excited for our own Diana Fir who is appearing in the Sound of Music” play in Broadway by the Bay. She has the role of Sister Margarita, Mistress of the Postulants. She is marvelous as usual. Congratulations, Diana. She also just celebrated her 1st Wedding Anniversary. We are happy to welcome new member, Joseph Govednik to Br. 13. He is very active in the Church of the Nativity and is past president of the Church Council. Hope you had a beautiful summer and are ready for a glorious fall... all the friendships I renewed in Duluth reminded me...that... “A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.” BEVERLY JACKSON THE FUTURE IS NOW! NO. 14, EUCLID, OH Founding Date: OCTOBER 31, 1927 Meeting: 1st Tues., 6 p.m. Slovenian Society Home I certainly hope that by the time we read this article all the brutal summer weather has settled down. Our greater Cleveland areas has been quite fortunate even though we’ve had our fill of rain-filled days, and cool weather for which many of us are thankful. But our neighboring cities and states have been overwhelmed by flooding and blistering hot weather. Plans are in the works already for our upcoming Christmas Dinner-party so keep the date Tuesday, December 2 in mind for this fun evening. Members Laurie Trevino and her three year old daughter, Alejandra have moved to Minnesota. Laurie loves the area and commutes to work at Merit Care Hospital in North Dakota! Good luck to you, Laurie and Alejandra. Secretary/Treasurer Diane Varney and family wish to thank everyone for their expressions of sympathy and extending condolences upon the death of her mother and our President, Jennie Fitzthum. It was a great comfort to the family. Vice President Pat Habat will now assume the post of President of Br. 14. Best of luck to you, Pat! Deepest sympathy to member Celeste Frollo and her family upon the death of her husband, Joe who passed away suddenly while they were on a group tour to Slovenia. We have also been saddened by the death of our Spiritual Advisor and Pastor of St. Christine’s Church in Euclid, Father Francis Sterk. May our beloved Mother Mary and Her Son keep all of our departed loved ones in Their care. Hope you all stay well and dry during the remaining summer days, ladies. ALICE KUHAR NO. 16, SO. CHICAGO, IL Founding Date: FEBRUARY /.?. /92« Meeting: 2nd Saturday, 1 p.m. monthly except Jan.-July-Aug. St. George’s Hall This month’s column is about the Joy and Sorrow in our Reporter Margaret Prebil’s Family. The Joy — On July 12th, Vida Kumse, Gladys Buck and I were invited to celebrate Marge’s 85th Birthday at the Jovial Club, hosted by her children and grandchildren. It was quite a gathering. After we ate our fill, we went to Marge’s house for Birthday Cake and coffee in her back yard. Her grandsons entertained us, Richard 11, on the keyboard and Christopher 9, on the Guitar. Her daughter, Kathy was telling us about the camping trip she and her husband, Tim were planning for the next weekend. The first one alone since the children were grown or married. The Sorrow - Saturday July 19, Marge called me with the news that Kathy and Tim were in a roll-over accident in Wisconsin. Kathy sustained a small bruise on her elbow, but Tim had died. Our deepest sympathies to Marge, Kathy, the children, Sean, Tim, Dan, Ryan and Meg and all the members of the Monahan and Prebil Families. Rest in Peace, Timothy Monahan. Vida and Gladys are traveling again. This time to Idaho and Montana. If they keep it up, they’ll see all “48” stateside. Congratulations to Kay and Bob Jurincie on their 50th Wedding Anniversary 7/19, Dotsy and Jim Rossi, 55 years in June, and Tina Sertich 80 Candles 7/14. To T.J. Monahan, one of the Coaches of the volley Ball Team for the Glenwood South titans on winning the State Championship and Gold Medal, Father Blase Chemazar, O.F.M., former pastor at St. George Church, on his 50 years as a priest and Father Paul Novak, O.S.M., son of Fran and Rudy Novak, elected Assistant Provincial of the USA Servile Order. Welcome to Rev. Juan P. Sanchez as pastor of St. George and Rev. Philip C. Kiley, associate; and farewell and best wishes to Father Arturo on his new ministry. We will miss you. St. George Church is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year. Cardinal George will officiate at the Mass on Sept. 28th and a Banquet will follow at the Dynasty in Hammond. There wil be no meeting in September. Best wishes to those celebrating birthdays in Sept. and Oct. We urge our members to attend the IL-1N State Convention and the 75th Anniversary of Br. 20 in Joliet on Oct. 5th. SYLVIA SPRETNJAK Happy Birthday, dear Marge! On Saturday, July 13 our talented Reporter, Marge Prebil celebrated her 85th birthday with a most beautiful birthday party at the Jovial Inn. In attendance were her son, Tony, daughters, Sister Lois, Kathleen, Rosemarie, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, 12 grandchildren, one great grandchild, a niece and nephew and a few personal friends. Following a delicious meal all celebrants continued the celebration in Marge's beautiful garden where a delicious “atomic” cake was served to all followed by watching Marge open many beautiful birthday gifts. Everyone had a most enjoyable afternoon and the perfect July weather made for an ideal garden party. Marge does an outstanding job of reporting all news of Branch 16 happenings and members eagerly await each issue of the ZARJA to read her article. Our wish for Marge is that she be blessed with good health so that she will celebrate many more happy birthdays! Gladys Buck, Secretary NO. 20, JOLIET, IL Founding Dale: JUNE II. IV2X Meeting: 3rd Tues. except June to Sept. St. Joe’s Park Hall We hope your summer is going well! Our traditional Slovenian Grape I Iar-vest Festival Dance will be held on September 28 at St. Joseph Park Hall. There will be a cash bar and sandwiches Branch 24 - LaSalle, Illinois will be celebrating the 75th Anniversary on October 19, 2003. We have a totally “Slovenian” afternoon planned. Everyone is welcome to attend. For more details please see the website at www.swua.org or email Bonnie Pohar Prokup at wprokup@aol.com. Come and see us at the 75th Anniversary Celebration! Br. 24, LaSalle, Illinois Sunday, October 19, 2003 .1 available for purchase. The proceeds from the dance are used to pay dues for the insured Branch 20 members over 80 years of age. This is our ONLY social fundraiser of the year, so come on, be there! Bring your family and friends! The 75th Anniversary of Branch 20 in Joliet, Illinois will be on October 5. We are counting on our members and friends of Branch 20 to attend this very important event. This is a once-in-a-lifetime happening! On October 4, cheese and wine will be served at the Slovenian Heritage Museum and Library as a prelude to our 75th anniversary celebration. The public is invited. Our new national Vice president, Betty Ann Kolesari, and Auditor, Denise Bartlett, will host this event. Come and meet our newly-elected officers of the national board. The members of Branch 20 wish to congratulate our own member, Jonita Ruth, who was elected treasurer on the national board of directors of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America for her second term. A bakery sale is scheduled for this fall at St. Joseph’s Church. Raffle calendars for the month of January are available now, and you will have thirty-one chances to win. Call Pat Figurowski at 741-1863. The calendars will also be available at the Grape Harvest Dance. Belated birthday wishes to Anna Kobe who was 95 years young Aug. 30, and to Fr. Tom Paul, our spiritual director on his July birthday. Congratulations to William and Char Kobe, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, Aug. 17th. Char is president of Branch 20. William and Theresa Burns who also celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Theresa Burns works in our Heritage Museum Library. Leslie Ferguson, who graduated from Midwestern University, Chicago College of Pharmacy, PharmD. Arthur A. Hrvatin and his bride, who were married at St. Joseph's Church. Annette Koncar, Branch 20, who was awarded “KSKJ Fraternalist of the Year 2003.” Correction: Jesse Kambic is the mother of Christopher, who was the groom reported in the last issue. Get Well Wishes go out to Mary Barbie and William Kobe. We extend our sympathy and prayers to the families of: Alice A. Ancel, Frances Papesh, Bernice Skriner, Rose Marjasevich; also to Lillian Murphy on the death of her husband, Clarence. Your help is always needed and appreciated in the Heritage Museum, which is situated on North Chicago Street in Joliet, IL. Call 727-1926. On Oct. 19th Branch 24 in LaSalle, IL will be celebrating their 75th anniversary. We encourage our members to attend this important event. For more information call Jonita Ruth, 726-6990. Your calendar of events was mailed to you in August. Keep this calendar handy for future events. Remember our first meeting this fall will be on Tuesday, September 16, at St. Joseph’s Park Hall. “One is nearer God's heart in a garden that anywhere else on earth.” GOD BLESS AMERICA! Submitted by SISTER MARLENE AMBROSE, OSF New phone #(815) 724-0731 NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL Founding Date: OCTOBER 17, 1928 Meeting: 3rd Thurs. Eureka Savings Bank Mar.-Apr.-May-June Sept.-Oct.-Nov. On June 27 members of LaSalle Branch 24 were stunned and saddened to learn of the untimely demise of their president, Anne Wangler. There was no doubt of her talents and the quality of her leadership. As choir director and an accomplished organist, she played at church services for 60 years. She was recognized by the Vatican on the 50th anniversary of her work in that capacity. Having a close-knit family she fully supported the various activities of her children and served as president of the PTA for eleven years. She was an active member of KSKJ and the Altar and Rosary Society. She regularly visited residents of the local nursing homes to provide songs and prayers. Anne took great pride in her Slovenian heritage. She carried out various traditions and passed them on to her grandchildren, even teaching them how to make apple strudel. Her daughter and granddaughters and brother, Bill are all members of Branch 24. With her vested interests she served as our president for many years. In her quite and unassuming manner she conducted the duties of her office efficiently, with kindness, thoughtfull-ness and consideration. She frequently did much above and beyond the call of her office: remember birthdays and the sick, with get-well cards and regularly reported news of the functions of Branch 24 to ZARJA. She also was instrumental in overseeing several state conventions that were hosted by Branch 24. Her husband of 54 years preceded her in death on April 9,2003. Survivors are daughter, Marianne Schweickert, sons. William and Mark; seven grandchildren; two sisters, Mary Jane Darif and Dorothy Stevenson; three brothers, Ludwig, James and William Lushina. Anne left an indelible mark on Branch 24 and SWUA in general. We have all been enriched by knowing her. Her memory will linger in our hearts. Our heartfelt sympathy to her family. REPORTER NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Founding Date: AUGUST 25, 1929 Meeting: 3rd Tues., 6:30 p.m. Euclid Public Library, Erie Room Our June picnic was a fun nite! Thanks to all who gave of themselves! Our meeting was very well-attended and some great news came thru Jo Gor-nick, our delegate to the recent convention. She gave a good report, covered all the news we need to know and points of interest. May the SWUA officers continue with the membership at heart. Our Branch 32 will hold a raffle and the winner will be drawn at the Sept. meeting. Tickets are $2 each. First prize is $100; 2nd is $50 and 3rd is $25 each. Good luck and members and friends, please support the cause! To all the birthday members, God bless you. To our ill members - we care! Deceased members’ families -our very best wishes to carry on. Remember, no meetings were held this summer so in Sept. 1 hope we all get together in good numbers. Same time, same place, same time, 6:30 p.m. See you then. Take time to enjoy the good things in life. DOROTHY LAMM Welcome “NEW” Members August 2003 Name Branch Hagan, Louise Tamse 103 Kokal, Lisa 103 Bertrand, Mary A 13 Govednik, Joseph F 13 Kauffman. Dominique 16 Kauffman, Luis 16 Kauffman. Olivia Grace 16 Marinelli, Angela Maria 16 Marinelli, Maria Rose 16 Marinelli. Veronica 16 Petrich, Joseph William 16 Beilis, Stephanie 20 Newberg, Connie 23 Niskala, George 23 Essl.Toni 24 Pohar, Christine 24 Pohar, Stacey 24 Swanson, Carol 24 Mauric, Joseph 25 Sneed, Charlene 25 Childress, Pamala 3 Buchanan, Jeanette Sevshek 30 Moore, Margaret 30 Schmidt, Rita 30 Slack, Edward J 30 Talian James, Elizabeth 30 Galaski, Theresa 34 Gerzin, Jane 34 Lautigar, Sally 34 Skala, Cassey 34 Stage, Virginia 34 Suihkonen, Dena 34 Syrjanen, Beverly 34 Tekautz, Nancy 34 Trucano, Pauline 34 Zupancich, Renee 34 Ivanca, Kathryn 38 Perkovich, Frank 39 Reynolds, Judy Papesh 5 DiGiulio, Joan Dr. 54 Carollo, Linda 99 Correction: We have a new member, Toni Mitchell in Br. 34, who was mistakenly named Tom in the report last month. Sorry, Adrienne Miklich (her sponsor). Thanks for your INVOICE DONATIONS! These specific donations came with dues payments. We thank the members for their generosity. Donor Slavinec, Doris and Mario (30) Strupeck. Joan (2) Lenkaitis. Cathy (24) 'memofAnneWangler Prokup. Bonnie (24) 'mem ol Anne Wangler St. Joseph s Church Father Perkovich (39) Fitzsimmons, Bernadette (103) Br. 16 ZARJA Photos Br. 42 ZARJA Photos Talian-Janes, Elizabeth (30) Clemence. Ann R (25) Zarja (S) Heri- Schol-tage arship (S) (S) Gen. Fund 35 20 5 10 20 20 ground the Wo^ Since ^ KOLEANDER ^ Featuring the Slovenian Women’s Union Heritage Tour to Slovenia, September 14, 2003. Featuring the World's Best! Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal, Cruises, Princess Cruises, Seaborne Cruises, Special Expeditions, lauck Tours, and many others! Book Airline Tickets at www. kollander-travel. com Kollander World Travel 80 Years Since 1923 (800) 800-5981 (216) 692-1000 www.kollandcr-travel.com NO. 35, AURORA, MN Founding Date: OCTOBER 15, 1929 Meeting: 6 per year Community Sr. Center We did not meet since my last branch report, however, we did attend the National Convention in June in Duluth. Seeing so many young people as delegates and hearing from them was very encouraging. Our SWUA is very much alive! The ZARJA will have convention reports, please take time to read them. Thank you to Beverly Menart and Br. 33 for another successful event. The winner of the Advent Nativity Wreath was my 2 year old great granddaughter, Kainy Orazem, from Onamia, MN. Her grandpa, Paul, bought the winning ticket for her. Thanks to everyone for your support. This money went toward our delegate expense. Several of our members took part in a program “Cooking on the Iron Range” at Ironworld, hosted by Julie Kellner from WDSE, Channel 8 on Sunday, July 13th. Jean Korsman, of br. 39 Gilbert, made a walnut potica and Anita Vovk of Aurora made flancate to demonstrate how these delicacies are made. They even brought along some samples to share. This program is to be aired later this year. Congratulations to Alyssa Hodnik who was chosen by the American Legion Auxiliary to attend the 57th Annual Girls’ State - June 8th—14th. It was held at the Bethel College campus in Arden Hills, MN. The theme was “Heart to Heart with Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.” Their objectives are to learn about our government and to be good citizens. A wonderful experience to meet many other girls from different parts of our state. Her alternate was Lindsay Antilla. Both girls are our members. Correction: James Wheeler graduated from the Univ. of Minnesota with a bachelor of science degree and a major in architecture. It is a 4-year course that he completed in 3 years. Welcome to our new member, Arietta Mikulich who has retired from teaching out east and returned home to Aurora. We look forward to seeing you are our meetings, Arietta, enjoy your ZARJA! Congratulations to two of our members who had special anniversaries in July: John and Betty Rokser celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary. They have seven children and raised two foster children, also have 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Betty embroidered the Splash Cloths that were auctioned off at our National SWUA Convention in June. She always donates her lovely handcrafted articles to our dime social and for door prizes when she serves on the lunch committee. She also is a quilter. Ray and Barbara Vodovnik celebrated their 46th anniversary. They have three children and five grandchildren. Ray and Barbara are active in promoting their Slovenian Heritage. They live in the Cities and we always enjoy having Barbara join us when she can for meetings. God bless all of you and may you enjoy good health and happiness and many more anniversaries. See you all at the SWU State Convention in Duluth on Sept. 14th. Our next meeting is Oct. 12th, 1:30 p.m., C.C. ANNE M. ORAZEM NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN Founding Date: FEBRUARY 3, 1930 Meeting: 1st Sunday monthly St. John’s Church Well, the summer is mostly gone and I can’t say it’s been our best. We had swarms of big black flies here for over a month, and now our farm is over-run by grasshoppers! YUK! They jump up into your face and body whenever you step outside to work in the vegetable garden or flower garden! Because we had such a dry spring, the mosquitos haven’t been too bad, so that is a blessing. What a great time we all had at the National Convention in Duluth. I’m sure everyone has wonderful memories of their visit to Minnesota! Beverly Menart did a great job, and now her Duluth Branch will be hosting our State Convention, so they will be busy again. We are all looking forward to that special day. Congratulations to the re-elected and newly elected officers of SWUA. With all the innovative plans and projects for fund-raising plus the additional new members our SWU is well on it’s way to a great future! With everyone’s support and interest, it will continue to be the wonderful organization that Mrs. Prisland envisioned so many years ago. Our condolences to Judy Stuntebeck (our good member and long-time organist for St. John’s Church) on the recent death of her mother, Helen Vidmar; may she rest in peace! JEAN KORSMAN NO. 40, LORAIN, OH Founding Date: APRIL 21, 1930 Meeting: 2nd Wed. 1 p.m. SS Cyril & Methodius Hall It is sad to report the death of another friend and member. Ann Bobrowski who died after a long illness. She is survived by a son, Calvin Bobrowski, daughter, Karren Mullins and a brother, Joseph Udovich, all of Lorain. To them and the rest of her family, we extend our deep sympathy. May she rest in peace. Agatha Donges led prayers at her wake. At our luncheon in July which was at Hometown Buffet, there were five members and two guests present. We spent a few pleasant hours in good fellowship. Some of our members have been on the go for important family occasions. Aggie Serazin flew to Garland, Texas to be with daughter, Sharon for granddaughter Jennifer’s high school graduation. Our grandchildren grow more and more important to us as we and they grow older. Jean and George Balogh flew to Atlanta, GA for their grandson Greg’s wedding. There were at least 30 family members from Ohio in attendance. They could have chartered their own plane! Jean said the wedding was just beautiful and, of course, it was great to see everyone. Elaine and I cruised to Alaska. Everything I had heard of this trip proved to be true. So beautiful! And we lucked out on the weather. Temps were in the 70’s and not a sign of rain. We took a side railroad trip in Ketchikan and our tour guide pointed out the Alaskan oil pipeline. This was of special interest to me as much of the pipe for this project was produced right here in Lorain at the US Steel plant where many of our husbands - including my own - worked. Angie Voytko spent a week at Hilton Head South Carolina where all the women in the family - daughters and granddaughters - come for this annual get-together. What fun they had. They walked the beaches and even flew kites. Two of my granddaughters, Stephanie and Jennifer participated in a project called "Connecting Young Adults with Slovenian Heritage" and sponsored by the Student Organization and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Slovenia. They were with a group of 15 young people ages 18 to 26 who toured Slovenia for two weeks. They stayed in hostels and had daily lessons in the Slovenian language. They even found time to visit the little house where we lived in Vrhnika and visited St. Paul's Church where my sister. Mary and I made our First Holy Communion and Confirmation. What an experience!! (See our information on next year's Heritage for Youth Tour on page 16.) Just a reminder to our members. Please come to our meetings. We would love to see a full house next month like it used to be. STEPHANIE POLUTNIK NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH Founding Dale: MAY M. 1930 Meeting: Quarterly, 2nd month of the quarter, 2nd Saturday Maple Hts., Library Here we are, already into fall - what happened to summer? After a very harsh winter and a very unstable spring, an extremely rainy summer wasn't what we expected. Hopefully, we will enjoy a traditional northern Ohio autumn with all its splendor. Marge Church, National V.P. and Dorothy Mehosky as delegate represented our branch in Duluth, Minn, at the SWUA National Convention. By the time you read this they will have given a report on the event at our branch meeting. September birthday greetings to: Ann Marie Buehner, Mary Tome, Dorothy Budimlic, Elizabeth Harr, Pat Wolf and Debra Zolywiak. For October: Jeanne Offutt, Marjorie Los-toski, Nancy Thompson, Madeleine Yemec, Amy Thompson, Tracy Jones, Dr. Thos. Jaras, my sister, Frances Tomsic and my daughter, Lynn Kos-sakoski. During a recent visit with my niece, Bonnie Legan Weiner, I had the opportunity to view the wedding album of her parents, my brother, Frankie and his bride. Jeanne. In one of the photos I recognized Betty Ann Kosak Han-standing with Ed Lipnos, my nephew, who was in the bridal party. She had on a long gown and wore a corsage which helped me recall that on that day, May 28, 1949, Eddie was also attending his Maple Hts. Senior Prom with her as his date, Betty Ann Kosak. My curiosity got the best of me which prompted a call to Ed for the details on how he pulled this off. He remembered it very well and said that he did his job as bridal party usher for the morning and afternoon activities and because he did not yet have his driver’s license, his father, Louis Lipnos drove him to Betty Ann’s and took them to the Carter Hotel for the Prom. At about 10:00 p.m. Louis drove back to get them and the trio rejoined the wedding reception at a local hall. Ed really got his money’s worth that night with that tux rental, flowers and the whole thing! Sounds like such a simple solution solved in true Slovenian fashion! So to you, Betty Ann, out there in Summerfield, No. Carolina, I’ll bet you never realized you were setting a precedent by riding in a chauffeured vehicle not unlike today with the stretch limos for proms. Many years ago Ivan Zorman told us that the English language was the hardest language to learn, so consider the following: We take English for granted, but if we explore its paradoxes we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig, and why is it that writers write but fingers don’t fing, grocers don’t groce and hammers don’t ham? If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn’t the plural of booth, beeth? One goose, 2 geese, so, one moose, 2 meese? Is cheese the plural of choose? One mouse, 2 mice, one louse, 2 lice, one house, 2 hice? If teachers taught, why didn’t preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? Why do people recite at a play and play at a recital? Ship by truck or car and send cargo by ship? have noses that run and feet that smell? Park on driveways and drive on parkways? How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites? How can the weather be hot as Hell one day and cold as Hell another? When a house bums up it bums down. You fill in a form by filling it out and on alarm clock goes off by going on. There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger, neither apple or pine in pineapple. And while no one knows what is in a hot dog, you can be pretty sure it isn’t canine. English muffins did not originate in English nor French Fries in France. Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren’t sweet, are meat. You get in and out of a car yet you get on and off a bus. When the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible. Why, when I wind my watch, I start it, but when I wind up this column, I end it? English is a silly language - it doesn’t know if it is coming or going! Till next time. Z Bogom LIL SADOWSKI (Am still laughing, Lil! C.L.) NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Founding Date: JUNE 4, 1930 Meeting: 4th Wed. St. John Evangelist Rectory Our June meeting was well-attended. We seem to be expanding, we will probably need to look for a bigger place for our meetings. On June 18th we went on a Pilgrimage to "Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica” in Chicago. Father Cunningham came with us, and he had the Mass and Homily. One of the Brothers from the Basilica took us on a tour of the place and told about its history. In one of the rooms was a copy of the Pieta by Michaelangelo, the famous scene of the Blessed Mother holding Jesus in her lap. It was awesome. Then we went to a small Polish restaurant, and enjoyed a very good lunch. The bus trip was very comfortable. For the National Convention, Betty Ann Kolesari was our delegate, and Denise Bartlett was our alternate. They were both elected to the National Board Seated: Maria Selak, Sophie Kren, Milka Kregar, Rose Juvančič, Ivanka Florjančič, Anka Krakora; Standing: Joan Twaddle, Paulette Kren, Nettie Juvančič, Kay Sefcik, and Virginia Bestic. We always enjoy reading of their activities from ZARJA reporter Monica Selak. of Directors, Betty Ann is the Vice President, and Denise is the Second Auditor. They gave us a complete report on the happenings at the Convention meetings. They are both very dedicated and helpful members, and congratulations are in order. Angie Johnstone and Yvonne Johnstone Khaldy attended the graduation dinner and ceremonies for son and grandson, Karim Johnstone Khaldy. Karim is in Nevada at Nevada-Las Vegas. His Commanding Officer is Captain Anthony Zupančič (a good Slovenian young man.) Another of our members was called to her heavenly home, Frances Zortz. Please keep her and all of our deceased members in your prayers. Our next meeting will be on September 24th, same place, same time. Have a safe and healthy summer and drive carefully. ANNE E. KONCZAL NO. 47, GARFIELD HTS., OH Founding Date: JUNE 17, 1931 Meeting: Mar., May, Sep. and Dec. Maple Hts. Public Library Hello everyone. Well summer is almost over. We want to welcome a new member, Margaret Rys, sister of Dorothy Cabot who was our “Mother of the Year” honoree, to our group. We would also like to welcome former members of branch #73 and members-at-large transferring from Br. #30. Their names are Mary Kastelic, Olga Sray and Mary Ann Sray. We are very happy and honored to have them. We are also looking forward to having them participate in all of our activities. Please plan on attending our September 14th meeting-picnic, which will be at 12 noon at Olga Dorchak’s house. Here is her address: 404 Dartmouth Trail, Sagamore Hills, Ohio 44064. Phone (330) 468-7989. Please call her if you need directions to her house. Also plan on attending the Ohio-Michigan meeting, Sunday, October 12th. The Mass at St. Mary’s on Holmes Ave. is at noon and following will be a dinner, cost $15.00. We also have some birthday wishes to extend. September birthdays: Mary Culkar, Albina Jordanek, Barbara Nawalaniec, Bernice Novak, Wanda Sever, Barbara Sostakowski, and Annette Yurogavac. October birthdays: Dorothy Cabot, Kathleen Dorchak, Olga Dorchak, Mary Ann Drobnick, Linda Ford, Josephine Godec, Josephine Klun, Allison Mundson, Mary Skul, Agnes Slak, Elsie Spellacy, Ingrid Squire, John Squire, Paula Squire, and Mary Taucher. Congratulations and best wishes to all. Again we cannot wait to see everyone at the picnic-meeting on September 14th. KATHERINE WALLACE NO. 54, WARREN, OH Founding Dale: AUGUST 22, 1932 Meeting: 3rd Wed. Feb. thru May, Sept., Nov., Dec. Greetings from a rain-drenched town! We had such bad storms that our county was declared a disaster area. Hopefully, we will have a better fall season. Our September meeting is on the 17th at my home. I’ll call you with the details. On Oct. 15th, Vic Zuga will have the get-together. We’ll help her celebrate her 89th birthday! No meeting in November but our December annual luncheon is on Dec. 17th. Put these dates on your calendar. Congratulations to the National Officers, especially the new ones who were elected at the Convention. And, our best wishes and prayers to all of you - hopefully it is a new beginning. Our group is so small, but at least we do get together several times a year. As far as recruiting in our town, it’s not easy. We are thankful that we can keep the members we have. Good health and God’s blessing to all and see you at my home in September. JOANNE PONIKVAR NO. 55, GIRARD, OH Founding Date: JUNE 8, 1933 Meeting: 3rd Wed. Feb. thru May, Sept., Nov., Dec. Hello from Branch 55 in Girard, OH!!! 1 hope everyone is enjoying the warm summer months. Unfortunately, we haven’t had that much nice weather here in Northeast Ohio. In fact, the month of July is the rainiest July on record according to our local meteorologists. For the past few weeks the city itself has been practically underwater! Since the last time I’ve written many Members of Br. 55, Girard, Ohio enjoyed their annual banquet in May and observed their 70th Anniversary in June, 2003 things have been going on with the members of our branch. At our 70th Anniversary party held at Little Pepino’s in May, several members won various prizes provided by the president and treasurer. Virginia Bestic won a cookbook, Paulette Kren won 70 bows, Ivanka Florjančič received a half dozen red carnations. All members present also received one red carnation from President Maria Selak. The evening was full of delicious Italian food, fun, and friends. Virginia Bestic had much to report about her family. Her grandson, Joe Bestic was preparing to graduate from the Ohio State University Medical School on June 4. He was also getting ready ot be married on May 13 in Hawaii. Congratulations to Joe and best wishes! Virginia’s granddaughter, Amy, a horticultural student at Cornell University just returned from a visit to Holland with a school group. I’m sure the flowers were absolutely beautiful over there. Virginia’s son, Gregory just became certified as a CPA accountant with the American College of Forensic Examiners International, where he was trained in investigating fraud. We all wish him much success in his line of work! Kay Sefcik’s radio program “Jam-min’ Buttons” is back on the radio every Monday evening from 6 p.m. until sign off on WKTX 830AM in Cortland, Ohio. The program features our very own Kay Sefcik and Kathy Paulenich as co-hostesses. Kay notes that about 99% of the music on the program is button box. Make sure to tune in and listen to the show! Ivanka Florjančič recently hosted six relatives from Slovenia for two weeks. Included among the various activities planned for the family were trips to Niagara Falls, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Cleveland. I hope everyone had a wonderful time visiting the US! Sophie Kren’s granddaughter, Katie is expecting a baby this summer and the whole family is very excited. Our congratulations also go out to Sophie who turned 91 this past February. God bless her for many years to come! Sophie also had a visit with her daughter, Patty and her husband, Rick this past Easter. It was great to have the family together for the holidays. Sophie’s other granddaughter, Tricia Kren recently participated in Civic Day at Girard High School. There, she and other members of her school took up the government positions in Girard. Tricia decided to take her father’s position as an upper level ranking member of the city street department. I’m sure it was a great experience learning how the city government operates. I do have some unfortunate news to report as well. Member Anna Marie Zagger suffered a traffic accident in December while coming home from the cemetery with a friend. She is recuperating with therapy at a local rehab center. Joan Twaddle reported that her great aunt, Caroline Cekuta Cooper passed away in Hawaii in April of this year. Our condolences to her family. Well, that about wraps it up for this month’s news. Like many young people, I will be heading off to college at the University of Notre Dame in just a few short weeks. I want to wish everyone going back to school or starting school a happy, healthy and safe school year. That’s all for now. God Bless! MONICA SELAK NO. 85, DEPUE, IL Founding Dale: DECEMBER 19, 1937 Meetings: at Members’ Homes We extend our deepest sympathy to the Anne Wangler family and also to Branch 24 on the loss of Anne Wanger. Anne was a lovely lady and a very good president. She will be missed. On June 14 Caroline Widmar attended the wedding of her grandson, Leonard Bryant to Kirsten Marie Hoffman in Rochester, MN. Our congratulations and best wishes to this fine young couple and we wish them many years of happiness. Our member, Mary Suarez who is 96 years old is now in Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Peru. Mary loved to dance and was always fun to be with and attended all our meetings. Mildred Lavrin is spending a vacation with her son and family in Tennessee. Belated birthday wishes to Millie who had a birthday on July 16. Belated happy August birthday on the 6th for Caroline Widmar. On October 11, my own, plus happy birthday, Jonita; October 27, Mary Benkse, November 5, our President Gen. Grilc, November 7, Mary Suarez will be 97, on November 27, Mary Maloney, and on November 29, Jackie Barto. Enjoy the rest of Fall. My sister Ann De Bord was in the hospital and has returned home now. We wish her the best. God bless. MARY JERMENC NO. 93, NEW YORK, NY Contact: Andrea Selak Tel. (212) 925-6521 Email: andreaseIak@hotmail.com In July, several branch members attended an evening of Slovenian writing with guest writers Brane Mozetie and Suzana Tratnik, who read their poetry and short stories, respectively, at the Bowery Poetry Club. Tea Rozman Clark and Sonja Knezevic-Kong attended the event and gave it rave reviews. Mirjam Hladnik-Miharcic and Tea Rozman-Clark, on behalf of refugee women from Postojna, Slovenia, extend their gratitude to all the participants of the Duluth Convention who purchased the Bosnian hand knits. Thanks for your cooperation and generosity! Lynn Zalokar noted “Thank you to the organizers for their hard work in planning a great weekend in Duluth. Mirjam Hladnik and I especially enjoyed IronWorld Discovery Center (Minnesota’s own version of Ellis Island). SWUA members! Visit this area if you have a chance and support Slove-nian-American culture in the north woods! The convention had a nice turnout of delegates, but delegates represent their members that attend branch meetings - what about members that don’t attend their branch meetings or those that don’t live near a branch? I wonder if it might be simpler, and more democratic, to do a mail-in ballot and have every member vote on bylaw changes and national officers. Then the convention can focus more on sharing ideas and getting to know each other since it is not often that branch leaders have this opportunity to meet. New Branch 93 member Elizabeth Talian James visited Slovenia from July 16-23. This was her second trip to Slovenia. Coming in October 2003 Home from Slovenia™ Traditional handcrafts, unique gifts and inspiring home accessories available by mail and at www.HomeFromSlovenia.com Lately, we have been discussing books on the Yahoo group. “Footsteps Through Time” by Irene M. Planinšek Odorizzi is being loaned out; so far, Cynthia Shaw Simonoff, Vesna Stras-ser and Suzi Zupancic-Brathwaite have read this book. Erika Bruno wrote a note about the book, “The Sound of One Hand Clapping” by Richard Flanagan, which is about a Slovenian Family that immigrated to Australia, noting that the book is a bit depressing, but on many book clubs lists. A full review of this book will appear in an upcoming issue of ZARJA, and it can be found in some public libraries or puchased online. I have been accepted to participate in the SWUA Scholarship Committee for the new board term of 2003-2007. I was awarded an SWUA scholarship when I began college in 1996. We are planning a Slovenian wine-tasting event to be held during the month of September; more details to follow through our Branch’s yahoo e-mail list. Our holiday event has been rescheduled to Saturday, December 6th (St. Nicholas Day), and we plan to make St. Nicholas cookies along with a presentation on Slovenian holiday traditions. Members who are not on e-mail and would like to get information on these events should call me at the number listed above. We were very pleased that Susan (Oblock) Kellen from Pittsburgh, PA, who was in New York over Memorial Day weekend with her husband, contacted and met with Lynn Zalokar. All other SWUA members, if work or leisure travel brings you to New York City, please do not hesitate to contact us! A. NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL Founding Date: MARCH 1, 1939 Meeting: 2nd Wed. Apr.-May-June Sept.-Oct.-Nov.-Dec. 12:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Church Hall Greetings everyone. How is everyone doing? Dan and I are back home, doing great. Glad to be back. We had a nice meeting in June. I picked up Millie Poropat and brought- her along. Thank you, ladies, for the goodies. There were about 10 of us attending the luncheon at the Jovial Club and we had a good time. The food is still so good there. Our condolences to Rose Smoljan and family on the death of their sister, Marge O’Connor. She died on June 5th. A sister came from California for the wake. It was nice to see you. God bless her. I had a great time at the convention in Duluth. I want to thank Beverly Menart and all the ladies for a wonderful job. I met so many great ladies from all over the USA. It was a learning experience at the meetings. Please read the ZARJA. I wasn’t happy about the raise in dues. I want to congratulate the National Board - and always want to thank Corinne Leskovar for the great job she has done for the organization and for ZARJA. Evelyn Driscoll’s husband is getting better after his stroke. He is starting to walk and get around much better. We are praying for you, Bill. To all our sick members and families, our best wishes. Happy birthday to everyone. Hope you all had a nice summer. We’ll see you at the Illinois-Indiana State Convention Oct. 5th in Joliet. DOLORES HENNELLY NO. 102, WILLARD, WI Founding Date: MAY II, 1941 Meeting: When convenient Parish Center We will have our meeting September 9th. Rose Pakiz will talk about the National Convention that was held in Duluth, MN. We are saddened by the death of a long-time member Josephine Artac. Jo was a very active member until she had to go to a Nursing Home. She was president for our branch for over 30 years. Before that she helped her mother-in-law, Mrs. Artac, for several years. She went to most of the Wisconsin Conventions. She also was active in Holy Family Church, Rock Dam Rod and Gun Club, C.C.W., Clark County Home Makers, and K.S.K.J. Society. Willard 4-H Club held their Pie and Ice Cream Social in June. Richie Yur-kovich Band played. The Polka Fest was held in July at the Willard Athletic Club. Many people camp out in their mobil homes to enjoy the music. Willard Historical Society held a rummage and bake sale that weekend. Money will go for the memorial park. July 27th was our Slovenska Družba Picnic at the Willard Athletic Club; and August 24th was our Bazaar. Our condolences to the families of Josephine Artac and Jenny Pekol. Our prayers go out for health to Lavonne Horvat and Julius Klapataus-kas. AGNES DEBEVEC, Reporter Veda'Ponikvar: Tram Our ‘nerit age “Kitchens Winner of the Potica Contest at the recent National Convention was Jean Korsman, former National President and currently the president of Br. 39, Biwabik. Jean chaired the delicious dinner for delegates and members at Gilbert’s St. Joseph’s Church when the convention visited us on the Iron Range. Congratulations, Jean, and thanks for sharing your prize-winning recipe for Walnut Potica with us! JEAN’S SLOVENIAN WALNUT POTICA Yeast Mixture 5 teaspoons dry yeast 1 tablespoon sugar I;2 cup warm water In 1 cup (measuring cup) dissolve yeast in warm water. Add sugar, stir and let bubble to top Dough Mixture lf/2 cup scalded milk (1 min. in microwave. You can use half canned milk or half and half cream) l,2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 stick margarine 2 beaten eggs to 7 cups flour (I use Gold Medal regular) Method Scald milk and margarine in microwave 1 minute, add sugar, salt, eggs and yeast mixture. Stir and add flour, beginning with 6 cups and gradually adding until dough is no longer sticky. Knead on floured board for approx. 20 minutes by hand, or with a dough hook until smooth. (I do half with dough hook at a time, and then knead all for several minutes to combine.) Place in well-greased (large tupperware) bowl, cover and let rise in warm place, or in hot tap water, changing water frequently to keep hot. (No kneading after dough is risen to top.) Line 3 pans with parchment paper (I have 14 in. pans so I make 3 strips out of one batch, as my table is 42 in.). Spray with Pam. Filling 6 cups ground walnuts, about l'Mbs 1 cup white sugar 1 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 eggs; beaten with 1 teaspoon almond flavoring 1 cup scalded cream or canned milk with 1 stick real butter melted and l,z cups honey Add hot liquid to ground walnuts that have been mixed with sugars and cinnamon. Stir well, add eggs. (Dough should plop, not run). Carefully dump dough onto table that has been covered with a sheet or tablecloth and lightly floured. Start by rolling with floured rolling pin to rectangle about 2 x 3 ft. Then stretch dough to 42 x 60 or to your table size. Cut off any thicker edges. Drop filling by large spoonfuls over 2/3 of dough. (With hands spread easily.) Spread evenly to edges and pick up short edge of cloth and gently roll over and over itself. Cut into pansize strips and patch end with left-over thin dough or cut with small plate and pinch ends shut. Place in prepared pans and prick with cake tester (or turkey pin) to prevent air bubbles. Cover and let rise about 40 min. Preheat oven to 325° or 350 depending on oven. Bake 35 to 45 min. until browned. (At 340° it takes about 35 minutes.) Remove from oven and let cool in pans 20 minutes. Carefully turn out of pan, remove paper and set on cooling rack. Cover with cotton cloth until cool. (I wrap in saran and then freezer foil.) Freezes well up to six months. I love your cookbook, More Pots and Pans which I have been using for years. I would like to buy more copies for gifts. Best cookbook I ever had and 1 have hundreds! Thank you. Sophie McCuski SLOVENIAN -.AMERICAN COOKBOOK MORE POTS & PANS Still the best American-Slovenian cookbook on the American market, available for special price of S15.00 per copy, postpaid. Send your orders with remittance to Slovenian Women’s Union 431 No. Chicago Street Joliet, IL 60432 Recipe Correction: Last month’s recipes included one for Chive Popovers. It did not give the starting oven temperature. Please note that the oven is to be preheated at 400 degrees F. before it is turned down to 350. Wish to contact our Food Editor with comments or suggestions? Write to: Veda Ponikvar 600 13th St., NW Chisholm, MN 55719 American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) An exciting offer to SWUA Life Insurance & Annuity Plans • Whole Life • 20-Pay Life • Single Premium Whole Life • Term Life • Student Term, $ 10,000 / $35 annually* • Tax Deferred Annuities • Traditional & ROTH IRAs KSKJ will make a $25 contribution to SWUA for every accepted and approved new Life Insurance or Annuity plan on the member’s behalf. *$10 donation only for Student Term (certificates) For more information call (815) 741-2001 or 1-800-843-5755 American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) 2439 Glenwood Ave., Joliet, IL 60435 www.kskjlife.com rm $25 SWUA Membership Information $25 Name: Address: City, State & Zip: Phone Number: _ E-mail:___________ SWUA Branch #. H/O use only: Date Certificate Issued_ Note: $10 This coupon must be attached to the KSKJ application in order for a donation to be made. American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) $10 MORE CONVENTION TIDBITS: SLOVENIAN EXHIBITION UPDATE Thanks to the official visit of SWUA conventioneers on June 16, the Julian H. Sleeper House Museum in St. Paul set a new single-day attendance record for its ten-year history. The vast majority of the sixty visitors that day were from the SWUA, but there were also some other tourists, and friends from the neighborhood who saw that “something special was going on.” Among the officials and dignitaries of the SWUA in attendance were National President Kathleen Dorchak, ZARJA Editor Corinne Leskovar, and Bev Menart, convention director. Although the Special Exhibition on Slovenia was the main interest, SWUA members also looked at the two floors of the permanent collection. And the JHSH is grateful for the brisk sales in its tiny gift shop! In response to a question from President Dorchak, JHSH Director Dr. Seth C. Hawkins made official what some had suspected: the Special Exhibition on Slovenia has cancelled its original closing date, and will continue at least through all of 2004. The rationale is not only that we need to give Slovenian-Americans from far-flung parts of the USA more time to see the exhibition, but that the public reaction has been so favorable that it makes sense to keep the exhibition going. “Besides,” said Dr. Hawkins, “I can’t think of anything else I’d rather have in that space: Slovenia is my favorite country.” Even though space is at a premium, a few new items were obtained in July. They include: an illustrated catalog of the Museum of Contemporary History’s traveling exhibit on Slovenian life in the 1950s; antique kitchen implements; an Ilirija shoe polish tin that predates the other two in the collection; recent postage stamp issues, including one honoring the Avsenik brothers; a green antique porcelain-stop-pered bottle from Ciril Kamp in Maribor; and items relating to public transit in Ljubljana. Also, the JHSH is anticipating a visit on October 14 from Dr. Davorin Kračun, Ambassador from the Republic of Slovenia to the USA. For more details on items mentioned in this article, or anything about the JHSH collections, phone: (651) 225-1505. TRANSLATION SERVICES Slovene, English, German, Bosnian, Croatian Marjana Lipitz, professional translator Interested in quality translation of old letters, cards or other documents? Call (518) 464—4472, or send an email to marjanal210@yahoo.com. ________________________ Suzanna Zupan£ič-8rathwaite Web & Graphic designing, Programming and Consulting Oblikovanje spletnih strani in grafike, programirale Adres/Naslov: Tel.: + 1(718) 778-8645 482 Montgomery St., #2F E-mail: suzi@stmdesigning.com Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA Website: »ww.stmdesigning.com At the Convention on Lake Superior! A CRUISE ENCOUNTER After a full day of Convention sessions it was wonderful to walk down to the Duluth harbor, seeing the late day’s sunrays sinking onto the water, and being greeted by young people as we prepared to board our little cruise ship. A small group of us, Dorothy Mehosky, Angela Stare, Corinne Leskovar, and I climbed to the upper deck, which was less crowded and there we found two Slovenian musicians in native costume, playing wonderful folk songs. Up there also, we were pleased to be served by a delightful young woman who was a student at the University of Duluth and working part time on the cruises boats. Lucy, a petite, dark haired girl, seemed quite interested in our little table of “mature” ladies and asked if we were part of a group. She had not heard of the Slovenian Women’s Union, so Corinne asked Lucy: “Do you have any Slovenian people living in your little town north west of here?” Lucy replied “Do you mean the “itches?” Corinne laughed and said: “Yes, the itches, do you know any? Lucy thought a moment and said: “Yes, we have the Mikulitches, the Mihavoliches, the Perkoviches.” Corinne wondered then if these families were Slovenian or Croatian so she asked: “What kind of food do the itches cook? Lucy responded: “Oh the usual, hamburgers, pizza, chili...” Corinne then asked for specifics: ’What do they have at their weddings?” Lucy said: “Sarma.” Corinne was discouraged. I then asked Lucy what nationality she was (can’t help it, it is an old genealogist’s premier question). Lucy said: “My father always says we are American. He never goes any further but I do know I am part French Canadian but I don’t know what else. We don’t talk about it." The conversation was running out of topics, and we were ready to thank her for her kind service, when I just kind of hesitantly asked: “Lucy, did you ever hear of potica?" POTICA!!! Lucy’s large brown eyes lit up: “Oh yes, I made it a month ago - it was a lot of work, took a whole day, we rolled out the dough to cover a big table.” We all knew she didn’t find this recipe in any regular cookbook and would need some help. We asked: “Lucy, who helped you make the potica?” She responded: "My grandma." Then the genealogist had to ask: “What is your grandma’s surname?” She responded: “Grandma Rogers.” Corinne asked if she would like to make potica again and try some other recipes. Lucy said: “Oh yes, it was very good, I would like to try it again.” Several weeks later a “More Pots and Pans” Cookbook was sent to Lucy at the Vista Cruise Office. (Thanks Agnes D. for your $ contribution for this.) Tucked inside the book were two SWUA application forms, one for Lucy and one for Grandma Rogers. M.T. Located in New Ytxk City we can provide tot local, national and midwide clients Slovenian Women’s Union of America Slovenska Ženska Zveza v Ameriki Membership Application Yes! I want to join the S.W.U. I want to preserve and promote the legacy of our Slovenian-American heritage. As a member I will receive the publication, ZARJA-The Dawn; I can affiliate with branches and events across the country and best of all, I will come in contact with fellow Slovenes. Please type or print legibly. Choose type of membership: □ Junior (Birth to 18), Annual Dues $5.00 □ Adult, Annual Dues $15.00 Name ___________________________________________________________ Street Address ______________________________________________ City/State/Zip ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone/Fax ______________________________________________________ E-Mail ______________________________________________________ Date of Birth ____________________________________________________ Do you speak Slovenian? __________________________________ Please describe your Slovenian ancestry _______________________________________________________________________________________ How did hear about us? S.W.U. member newspaper website other Applicant’s signature: Date: Branch Affiliation No. (if known) Location: Please make checks payable to the Slovenian Women’s Union of America and mail to: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA, 431 North Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432 - (815) 727-1926 e-mail: swuhome@msn.com — Internet webpage: www.swus.org In addition to my dues, I wish to contribute: $ ______ Heritage Fund ___________________ Scholarship Fund In honor of __________________________________________ Zarja Fund In memory of Send acknowledgement to For Office Use: Date Received: Membership No.: Branch Affiliate: _ □ I would like to volunteer for the S.W.U. My area of interest or expertise is: Telia Friend! If you wish us to send information to a friend or relative just fill in name and address here: My friend’s name Address City State Zip PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID JOLIET ILLINOIS CONTACT THE SWU HOME OFFICE 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 IF... You want to report the death of a member; Change the beneficiary on an insured member’s policy; Correct a member’s mailing address for ZARJA, including: all names in one household where more than one adult member resides; the maiden name or previous name of a member changing name and/or address. Thank you. At Your Service During Life’s Most Difficult Moments Louis “Ron" Zefran Connie Rodriguez Frank J. Zefran Lois M. Zefran Debbie Zefran Jerry 1-800-249-9150 (773) 847-6688 \}ixn£Lxa£ c^-fonzs., 1941 West Cermak Road, Chicago, II- 60608 rot* First Midwest Bank Joliet • (815) 727-5222 SHELIGA DRUG INC. JhuFl/a&u. 6025 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 431-1035 Serving our neighborhoods' daily needs TEZAK FUNERAL HOME “First in Service Since 1908” Licensed Producer: Richard K. Tezak (815) 722-0524 American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) 1211 Plainfield Road Joliet, IL 60435 ZELE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 452 East 152nd St., Cleveland, Ohio (216) 481-3118 Marie T. Stelow, MS, LCPC Individual, Couple, Family Therapy 370 Houbolt Road Suit 201 Phone: (815) 773-2303 Joliet, IL 60431 Fax: (815) 744-1623 SLOVENIJA MAGAZINE Quarterly issue/$30 USD per year. Personal checks accepted. Send your subscription to: Slovenija Magazine, Cankarjeva 1, P.O. Box 169,1001 Ljubljana, SLOVENIA, Europe It’s truly beautiful magazine! limmr FUNERAL HOMES Mark Zimmer, Funeral Director mark@zimmerfuneralhome.com 805 North 6th Street, Sheboygan, WI 53081 (920) 457-7012 - Fax: (920) 457-7013 117 North Wisconsin Drive. Howards Grove, WI 53083 (920) 565-2331 www.zimmerfuneralhome.com