NUMBER 5 MAY, 1986 VOLUME 58
From the poem, MY NEST, by Mary Štangelj Murn whose book of Slovenian and English poetry will be out shortly. Her story is on page 37.
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Mary Stangelj Murn A member of Br. 17, West Allis, Wisconsin
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ZARJA - THE DA WN
(ISSN 0044-1848)
Postmaster: Send all changes of address to : ZARJA — THE DAWN, 2032 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60608
NO. 5	MAY, 1986	VOL.	58
Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress
Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of A merica — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze.
Published monthly except January, June & August — izhaja vsak mesec razen januar, junij in avgust.
Annual Subscription for non-members, $10.00 — naročnina $10.00 letno za ne-članice.
Publisher:SL O VENI A N WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, I L 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926
Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu.
Editor, COR1NNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office, 2032 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60608 Telephone (312) 847-6679
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN MAY
May 10 -Mary Tomsie, Honorary State President of Pennsylvania, Strabane, PA
Nat ionu I Officers:
May 27 -Anna Hodnik, Director of Youth, Aurora, MN
Presidents
May 2 - Frances Anzelc, Br. 39, Biwabik, MN May 5 - Bcrnctta Misehe, Br. 84, New York, NY May II - Christine Konte, Br. 66, Canon City, CO May 25 - Frances Yerman, Br. 57, Niles, OH May 30 - Rose Kosko, Br. 21, Cleveland, OH
Secretaries
May 3 - Anna Anderson, Br. 79, Enuclaw, WA May 6 - Gladys Buck, Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL May 13 - Helen McFarland, Br. 66, Canon City, CO May 13 - Mary Mejae, Br. 103, Washington, D.C.
May 14 - Mary Pabijan, Br. 15, Cleveland, OH May 22 - Jennie Tavchar, Br. 65, Virginia, MN May 27 - Anka Kregar, Br. 55, Girard, OH
DATES TO REMEMBER
Mother's Day Parties:
May	4	-	Br.	38, Chisholm, MN, Luncheon, 2:00 p.m.
May	7	-	Br.	95, So. Chicago, IL, Dinner, 6:30 p.m.
Sacred Heart School Hall, Call Evelyn Driscoll, 731-5088 or Charlotte Fryza, RE 4-4336
May	8	-	Br. 40, Lorain, OH
May	12	-	Br. 89, Oglesby, IL, Banquet
May 13 - Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH, Mass 7:15 at St.
Wenceslaus Church followed by dinner at Maple Hgts., Nat’l Home May 15 - Br. 2, Chicago, IL at meeting hall, 7:30 p.m. May	17	-	Br.	105, Detroit, MI at Penna’s, 1 p.m.
May	18	-	Br.	1, Sheboygan, WI, Mass at 11:30 followed
by Social at Fr. Cherne Hall May 18 - Br. 55, Girard, OH at Alberini’s Restaurant 2 p.m. Reservations by May 1st: Mary Selak, 545-3569 or Rosemary Gordon, 545-2156 May	18	-	Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA
May	20	-	Br. 25, Cleveland, OH,	Luncheon at Sterle’s
Country House, 1:30 p.m.
May 20 - Br. 54, Warren, OH, Luncheon at Elks Club, 12:30 p.m.
May 21 - Br. 10, Cleveland, OH May 21 - Br. 32, Euclid, OH
May 21 - Br. 34, Soudan, MN, St. Martin’s Parish Hall, Tower
♦	* *
Apr. 10 - Mass for Ailing Members, Br. 2, Chicago, IL,
7	a.m. St. Stephen’s Church Apr. 25 - SWIMMING PARTY, BR. 33, Duluth, MN for Junior members Apr. 27 - Card Party, Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI, John’s Hall, W. 35th and Lincoln June 26 - JUNIORS’ PICNIC, Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI at Jackson Park Area 6 Aug. 3 - PICNIC IN THE PARK, Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH
Sep. 14 - MINNESOTA STATE DAY, Br. 56, Hib-bing, MN, Mass at noon, Immaculate Conception church followed by dinner at Moose Hall. Registration, 9 a.m.
Sep. 28 - 60th ANNIVERSARY, STATE CONVENTION, Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI Oct. 5 - ILL.-IND. STATE CONVENTION, Brs. 85 and 89 co-hosting, at Oglesby and LaSalle, IL. Oct. 12 - OHIO STATE CONVENTION and 55th ANNIVERSARY, Br. 50, Cleveland, OH Nov. 2 -ANNUAL CARD PARTY, Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI
MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY!
TSiDEPENDEišrr	]
JPAVINGS
1515 E. 260th, Euclid, Ohio 44132	731-8865	\
920 E. 185th, Cleveland, Ohio 44119 486-4100 2765 SOM Center Rd., Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44094 944-3400 27100 Chardon Rd., Richmond Hts., Ohio 44143	944-5500	jj
______________________________________________I
FROM THE EDITOR:
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ami, o/ mami,
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ti moja zlata mami
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To Mimi and Diana:
A love-letter from my mother
Mommy - mommy! The call of a baby to its mother! The call of a child and the call of pure love! It meant to me - that my mother would be there, without fail, nearby and ready to answer!
She was always close. When 1 was lost, a tiny child of three, mommy came quickly to rescue and comfort me. She was my whole world then as in later years. She would take me by the hand and show me what was right and wrong.
My mother and I were inseparable. She took me to all her lodge doings - and I patiently sat in the big, hard chairs, oftentimes sleeping thru her speeches and the talk of the ladies she was organizing for conventions, programs, parades - in which I invariably took part, too.
I presented dozens of bouquets, marched in countless parades, sang many songs and said poems on the stage, all the time eagerly looking for mother’s approving glance.
Girlish dreams in which I placed too many hopes at times, were always kept safe in her heart. She was the one to push me a little further or held me a little back, when the dreams go too big and the disappointments too great.
1 knew 1 was in her thoughts and prayers even when 1 was away from home. We planned everything together and tho we Were apart 1 called upon her for counsel and support. What she could see through her loving eyes was whatever was best for me. She sprinkled sweetness on the harsh reality of the world.
She was a loving grandmother to my children and I watched her bring beauty and meaning into their lives. My little girl learned her first rhymes from her and they, too, were inseparable.
Soon, 1 will be a grandmother, and my thoughts keep going back to her to remember her ways to follow. I want my daughter-in-law to know that there is a beautiful being in heaven who has her in her embrace as she becomes our newest mother.
My mother wants us to know comfort, happiness, contentment, to be not afraid of life no matter how it may twist and turn us about and to love each other with honesty and tenderness.
She wants me to build bridges of friendship and remain loyal to her belief in a better world.
She truly will love us into eternity.
..sem jokala, ko
sem se komaj zavedela da živim. Že tedaj bi rada videla več sveta, vendar, ker sem bila pri svojih treh letih le premalo vešča potovanja v neznano, sem se izgubila. Ko sem bila najdena, sem vsa srečna objemala mojo zlato mami in med nama je vez, ki je trajala te vse od začetka, postala še bolj trdna. Mama mi je pomenila dom, zavarovanost, ljubezen. Njena bližina me je spremljala v mojem otroštvu. Vedno sem bila z njo. Tudi, ko je vodila najrazličnejše sestanke sem bila zraven. Vedno sem sedela v prvi vrsti in pogosto zaspala, ker ljudje niso in niso hoteli prenehati s svojimi govori. Vendar počutila sem se varno, ker je bila za govorniškim odrom moja mama, ki je vzpodbujala, vlivata pogum, reševala nemogoče situacije. Vse to me je že tedaj navdajalo z velikim spoštovanjem, vedela sem, da je mama varen pristan brez čeri, kjer bo vedno lahko pristala moja ladja sanj, kje bo moja ladja, ki ji bodo viharji polomili jadra neuresničenih želja, kljub vsemu našla rešitev, kjer more pristati celo izgubljena ladja s polomljenim krmilom, ki ga je zlomil svet v katerega je bilo stavljeno preveč upanja.
Ko sem odhajala od doma, ko me je svet učenosti z vso silo zvabil stran od rodne grude, mi je misel na mamo stalno zaposlovala moj življenjski utrip. Vedela sem, da je tam daleč nekje, da misli name, da me ima rada, da so ji znani moji napori, saj je z mano vedno čutila. V njenem naročju so pristajale moje lačne ptice sanj, metulji moje sreče, žalostni skovirji neprespanih noči, ki so prinašali sporočilo neutešenosti... mama je sprejemala vse; njene roke, ki so vedno bile pripravljene, da objamejo, njene oči, ki so vedno široko razprte izrekale dobrodošlico, njeno srce, ki je hrepeneče šepetalo besede ljubezni, vse to so bili življenjski sokovi moje mladosti.
Pozneje sem sama postala srečna mamica in spet je bila moja mama tista, ki je z modrostjo babice čuteče kazala pot mladi mamici, da je mladi rod cvetel z novo močjo. In kmalu bom sama babica, misli pa se vračajo nazaj, kot da hočejo na vsak način najti vzorov in nasvetov!
Draga mama, ni te več. Ostal pa ni samo spomin nate, ampak je ostalo prijateljstvo, saj si me vedno učila kako naj se v tako težkih časih med vsemi ljudmi ustvarjam mostove prijateljstva, mostove nerazdružne zvestobe.
Bila si mi mama, bila pa si tudi moja najboljša prijateljica.
Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, O.F.M.:
President's Message Mother
May is the month dedicated to our Blessed Mother. Let our prayers especially, during these troubled times, be for peace in the world.
Many branches honor their mothers this time of year
-	best wishes to them.
At our Board meetings last month we missed our auditor, Marion Marolt, absent because of illness. Minutes will be published in the next issue.
Our cookbooks will be off the presses later this year with many new recipes, including some for Micro-Wave cooking. Heritage director reported on new contributions to the Museum and suggested plans for the future. Our Scholarship Chairlady also had a good report. The convention in 1987 was discussed with Joliet full of enthusiastic planning. All in all, it was an interesting session.
On the evening of March 13th the Board was invited by Branch 2, Chicago to their annual St. Joseph’s Table. I was happy to see so many of my friends and neighbors. Thank you for a lovely and entertaining evening.
Fortunately, I was able to be there because our son, Mike and his wife, Sandra took care of my ailing husband. While in the Chicago area I visited our son Marty and wife Grace, also Jennifer and Jessica their daughters with whom we lived for 3 years before coming out west. It was indeed, a memorable time. We had thought to come back to the midwest, but my husband’s health is too precarious at this time.
To our young people graduating, we extend wishes for success in their future endeavors; for our brides and grooms, we wish a happy future, abundant love and understanding in their new lives; and for birthday and anniversary celebrants, health and happiness.
Many of our members and friends are ailing, send a card, visit or pray for them. For our deceased, especially, our mothers, we ask God’s mercy in keeping them secure in His heavenly abode.
May God Walk With You.
Mary Muller
MOTHER’S DAY PRAYER
Lord Je.sus, Thou hast known A mother’s love and tender care And Thou wilt hear, while for My own Mother most dear,
I make this Mother’s Day prayer:
Protect her life, I pray,
Who gave the gift of life to me,
And may she know from day to day The deepening glow of joy Thai comes from Thee.
Hold her hand-as once she held mine And though she may not understand Life’s winding way,
Lead her in peace divine.
I cannot pay my debt for all The love that she has given But You, Lord, wilt not Forget her due reward-
Bless her on earth and in heaven.
AMEN.
Submitted by MARY JANE SEXTON New York, NY
The month of May brings us sunshine, flowers, songs of birds in our backyards, children’s laughter, in short, the month of May brings us new life. No wonder, that right in the middle of this month we dedicate one day to the woman who gave us life, our mother. Many things were said and will be said about our mothers, and rightly so. They deserve all the acknowledgement and gratitude we can give. Today we witness a strange phenomenon -how many are attacking the honor and sacredness of a mother - and these enemies of motherhood are also among women who are supposed to be good mothers themselves. By “good mothers” we mean mothers, who fully realize what it means to be an instrument in God’s all creating hand, that it is an honor and obligation. Many of us were fortunate, because we had good mothers. Our immigrant mother was not rich; she brought only few essential things in her small suitcase. But, she brought faith in God, determination to stay faithful to her mother’s principles, dedication to work and especially to love her children. For her nothing was too difficult or impossible when it came to the well being of her children. No wonder these mothers gave our history great men and women who built this great nation.
It seems that our nation is very close to a spiritual collapse. Someone will have to come and start to build again and not to destroy only. Here we need many mothers, who will bring up children in the fear of God, mothers who will implant into the hearts of their children faith in God and faith in themselves; today we need mothers who will teach their children about honesty, holiness of life and obligation for work; today we need mothers who will not be afraid to teach their children about sacrifice and self-denial and point out to them the high ideals of different vocations. Our society will be renewed only thru good families, but a good family is possible only thru a good mother!
Greetings from Your Youth Director anna hodnik
May is a busy month. It is the month we honor our mothers, both living and deceased. It is the month our church sets aside to give honor and praise to the greatest and most perfect mother of all — the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Jesus.
Divorce, abortion, live-in relationships, working mothers, materialism, all tend to put motherhood on Ihe back shelf in our society today. We need our Blessed Mother’s help and guidance and should pray to her every day.
I am asking our junior members to make an effort to really express their love and appreciation to their Mom’s verbally or by written word. It will have so much more meaning than a purchased card or gift.
Our granddaughter, Allyson, made her First Holy Communion on April 6th. What a very special day this was for her and her family and for us. May God bless all Ihe dear children who will be receiving these sacraments.
I	would like lo remind the branches to remember their junior members who are making Iheir First Holy Communion, Confirmation, or Graduation, with a special card or gift. It is important thal Ihey know we love them during these special events in their lives and share in Iheir happiness.
Congratulations and best wishes to all our honored Mothers of the Year. Have a Happy Day!
MiinrannniaH
NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI
Spring is bursting out all over. Flowers are starting to bloom and the robins are back singing again, which we in Wisconsin sure welcome at this time of the year.
It is time to honor our Member of the Year, Pat Urayner. Pat holds the position of County Clerk in Sheboygan County area. The date is May 18, 1986 beginning with 11:30 Mass at St. Cyril and Methodius. A social program for friends, relatives and members will follow in the Fr. Cherne Hall. We would like a big turnout to honor Pat.
Our treasurer, Dorothy Brezonik, is visiting her daughter, Kathy Schoeder, in Brandon, Florida for the past month. Kathy is also a member of Br. 1. She just recently moved to Florida from Hawaii.
Janet Maurin, our Vice-President, is recuperating from surgery. We are praying for her speedy recovery.
Our deepest sympathy to the families of Charlotte Melanz, Mary Podrzay and Helen Vuginovich. May they rest in peace.
We are preparing for our State Convention and 60th Anniversary. It will be held Sept. 28, 1986 at St. Cyril and Methodius Church, with meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Get Well Wishes to our Shut-ins and all our members who had surgery and broken limbs.
Enjoy the beautiful spring season.
AGGIE & RUTH
NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL
March, the month of St. Joseph and St. Pat, was celebrated with a sumptuous St. Joe’s Table. The hall was decorated beautifully by Terry Morison and the centerpieces were made by Mary Lauretig. We were honored by the presence of our National Officers, our Sisters of St. Stephen’s and Priests. The members outdid themselves with the good food and plenty of it. Our chairlady, Jean Železnikar, and her committee did a beautiful job. Thanks to all who brought goodies and helped make the evening a joy.
A donation of $ 1,000 was given to St. Stephen’s church and presented to our pastor, Fr. Vendelin, for the church renovation fund. A thank you to all who remember to bring items for the cheer basket each
month. A group of our members were at the Midwest Bowling Tourney in March in Milwaukee.
New members for Br. 2 are Dorothy Floral, Jennie Worth, Helen Szymonik, Marie Knych, Mary Slave; juniors who became adult members are Kati Gaber, Carolyn Kuca, Joseph Podder and a junior, Richard Nusko. Welcome to all.
75th Birthday ladies are Metoda Fischinger, Millie Paisoli, Katie Sabarneck, Jennie Ziherl, Frances Zumer, Agnes Kovacic, Stella Longosz and Gizella Hozian. Congratulations!
Mass for the sick and ailing members is on May 1st at 8:00 a.m. On the list are: Mary Todd, Maryann Slaby, also the husband of Mayme Wilkerson and John, the husband of Angie Blatnik.
We are saddened by the death of Josephine Kolman. Our sympathy to her family. Also condolences to Mary Bernasek on the losss of her father, Matt Kregul and to Stephanie Osterman on the passing of her brother-in-law, Joe Gomilar. Remember them all in your prayers.
Our Mother of the Year will be honored on May 15th at 7:00 p.m. Mass at which she will crown the Blessed Mother. Afterward, there will be refreshments in the hall. Congratulations to Fran Morison and her family and friends! Remember to write the date on your calendar so you don’t forget to attend. This time it is the THIRD THURSDAY, May 15th.
Next on our list of activities is Lemont Zveza Day in July. Prizes and workers are needed. Bring your relatives and friends. There will be games music, clowns and a fun time is promised. Our picnics are better each year.
Kathleen McCall was recently commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the US Air Force and will be pursuing her studies at the University of Wisconsin Medical School to prepare for her career as an Air Force physician. Kathleen is Fran Morison’s god child.
May is Mary’s month; remember to pray the rosary.
ANN SCIESZKA NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Jean Planisek. Prayers were said for sick and deceased members.
Happy birthday and anniversary greetings were sung for members present. Plans were made to honor our “Woman of the Year” Alice Struna on our regular meeting Wednesday, May 21st at 1:30 pm at Fanny’s Restaurant on E. 156 St. All who are interested to help show our appreciation please call our Pres., Jean Planisek.
Plans were made to hold a Rummage and Bake Sale during our June meeting. Ladies are asked to save whatever they have. Don’t forget that your junk may be someone else’s treasure.
Donations were collected for the Statue of Liberty from Branch 10 also. We thank all those who gave so generously. Donations are still being accepted.
The Sophie Magajna Scholarship fund report was given by Caroline Stefančič and is still in progress. I would like to correct an error in the last issue concerning a donation. The name should have read Mary Lavrich. Sorry, Mary.
Refreshments were served and thanks said to all those who baked and served after the meeting. Our special thanks to Millie Novak who donated noodles and some money to the Scholarship fund. Thanks again, Millie. Faye Moro and Joyce Lenassi, our sunshine choirleaders gave their report on their visit to the Slov. Home for the Aged on Neff Rd. These ladies look forward to their visits and send best wishes to all of us.
There were 28 members present at the meeting. As I was not present I would like to thank Faye Moro for taking the minutes of the meeting. I had just returned home the night before from Florida where I was visiting my brother.
The door prize winners were Josephine Brusich for 1st and Sylvia Jansa with second. We thank our Pres. Jean Planisek for her generosity by donating a gift for every meeting.
We send our deepest sympathy to the family of Mary Hraster, our 100 year old member who passed away. We also received word that Olga Toni who is in residence had surgery and is recovering at the Slov. Home for the Aged. Also a get well wish to all our sick members and those unable to attend. I hope everyone has a Happy and Blessed Easter and keep healthy.
FAYE MORO ANN STEFANČIČ
NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI
I	could not have asked for a better meeting day! The hall was in full attendance. Really makes it all worth it. Frances Plesko, as always, started us off with a prayer in Slovenian. All the officers were present and all reports were accepted as read.
Easter goodies and visits to our six ladies in the Nursing Homes were discussed. Sophie Stampfel offered to bake potica as part of the treat. Chris Boyance also baked filled horns for them. Fruit was also brought and the three of us spent a beautiful afternoon visiting them. All the ladies were very surprised and grateful, wishing us to thank all of you for remembering them in such a nice way!
The card party held on April 27th at John’s Hall on 35th and Lincoln was discussed. The usual volunteers will be helping out and the rest we hope to see there with their friends. It’s for our own benefit. Coffee and sandwiches will be available as well as good Slovenian bakery.
The picnic permit for the Junior Picnic has been applied for june 26, at Jackson Park in area No. 6 again. Keep that in mind.
Mitzi Anzur is back with us but Jenny Telesnikar is now at the Good Samaritan Hospital. Mary Kiel’s husband is back home. Frances Plesko will be going to Columbia Hospital on April 14 for hip surgery. Remember her in your prayers as well as a visit if possible. There is a correction in the last article. It lists Mary Olowienko instead of Mary Ogradowski as having passed away.
Numerous door prizes were again called. Happy Birthday was sung to the girls who also treated with a luncheon. Stavia’s husband donated and dyed an egg for each of us! Stavia ended with a prayer.
MARY DEZMAN
NO. 14, EUCLID, OH
Spring is finally here! My snow white zvončki have come to glorious bloom this past week and the daffodils are ready to burst into their bright yellow blooms!
It was a delight to welcome back Lucille Korencic to our meeting after she had been ill. Greetings were received from members Mary Mandich and Mary Sadar from Florida. We always enjoy hearing from our distant members.
Gather up your items for our Garage Sale this month and if you need someone to pick these items up call Pres. Marty Koren at 585-4227.
As one of our ladies mentioned, “Your junk might be someone else’s treasure.”
More travelers among us... Mary Stražišar (Arrowhead) has just returned from Austin, Texas where she attended her grandaughter’s wedding and Mary Koren also is off to Florida for the nephew’s wedding. Member Agnes Tome has just returned from Florida with a lovely tan.
Cleveland’s own Frankie Yankovic has been the recipient of a coveted Grammy Award for his latest recording of polka hits. Frank has brought a great honor to those of us interested in furthering our nationality heritage and we salute him and congratulate him!
Michelle Tome, daughter of Donna Tome has won high honors this semester at Villa Angela Academy with a 4.3 average. Our best wishes to you Michelle with our hopes for a bright future for you!
Speaking of Secretary Donna Tome, she has asked me to remind all of our members who are not current with their dues to give attention to this matter. Send your dues to Donna at 2100 Apple Dr., Euclid 44143 or call at 481-9374.
Ill members this month are Emma Pulzer and also Frances Merela. Mary Dolsak is now convalescing at the Slovene Home for Aged. We pray for strength for our ailing members with God’s Blessing to grant them a speedy recovery.
Wishing all mothers a very Happy Mother’s Day!
ALICE KUHAR
NO. 16, CHICAGO, IL
Meeting was opened with a prayer on Thursday, March 13th. The minutes were read and approved. Get well wishes were sent to Emma Kralj, Mrs. Wine and Ann Novak who is at Birch Plaza — 1426 W. Birchwood — Chicago, IL. 60626.
Edna Winters’ husband was confined due to a heart attack but from all reports is doing well and is back home.
Belated sympathies to Stephanie Golub and her family in the death of her brother.
Longtime member, Tina Ziebart of Milwaukee, passed away. A memorial service was held at our meeting in her memory.
On March 29th, almost at midnight, Anna Buck another one of our longtime members (54 years) was called to her eternal reward. She was mother of Gladys and Jack. She also had one granddaughter and one great grandson. On July 21st she
would have been 92. Rosary was said at the Kompare chapel at 2:00 PM with many members attending. She was laid to rest on Tuesday, April 1st. Honorary pallbearers were Mary Krznaric, Ann Lustig, Phyllis Perko, Marge Prebil, Sylvia Spretnjak and Fran Zupančič.
We pray that our deceased are enjoying their peace and happiness which they so justly deserve. We also pray that their families are blessed with courage to accept Thy will.
Birthday celebrants treated us with goodies at our meeting. They were Mary Brebrick, Julie Virlich, Helen Milanovich, Bessie Ivancevich and Mary Peterko. Thank you ladies.
Marge Prebil, our president, became a grandmother for the ninth time to little Anthony Shingo (of Easton, PA.) who was named for his grandfather and one-hundred year old great grandfather. Congratulations, Grandma!
Our games party was a great success. The weather co-operated, our hall was full and our V—P did a great job in the absence of Grandma Prebil. We thank the ladies from Branches No. 2 and No. 95 for visiting us, all our friends and members attending, the people donating and the cleanup crew.
Mary Brebrick’s 80th birthday on that day received a rousing Happy Birthday Song with wishes for many, many more.
Don’t forget our Mother of the Year dinner on May 8th. We’ll be looking for all of you.
FRAN B. ZUPANČIČ
NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, WI
Ah! Spring at last! A time for yard work and outdoor activities again.
All members and past mothers of the year are cordially invited to attend our Mother’s Day meeting on Sunday, May 18th. After the business end of the meeting is closed, we will honor our mother of the year, Ann Gasparič, an avid bowler and active member not only for our branch but also for K.S.K.J. Lodge 165, of which she is a member.
A delicious lunch will be served at the meeting. Please try to make this a memorable day for Ann, a day she will long remember. Please contact our Sec., Joan Yaklich at 545-3716 or Pres., Marion Marolt, if you plan to attend. If I may do a bit of begging, please, some bakery or goodies would be most welcome. Thanks in advance.
No meetings will be held in June, July, or August. A time for a bit of vacation. We will resume our business meeting on Sunday, Sept.
“A long and happy life together!”
Sandra Joanne Winters, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Winters of Chicago and Bruce Michael Bittner, son of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bittner of Munster, Indiana were married at the Church of the Annunciata on Friday, August 30, 1985. It was a double ring ceremony with the Rev. Paul Gins officiating. A reception for 200 guests was held in their honor at the Wicker Park Social Center, Highland, Indiana. The couple spent their honeymoon in England and Scotland and are now residing in Houston, Texas.
Sandi is a Cum Laude graduate of Loyola University with a Bachelor degree of Business Accounting and graduate of DePaul University with a Masters degree of Science in Taxation. Michael is a graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelor degree of Science in Accounting and a graduate of Arizona State College of Law with a Master degree of Law. The bride and groom are both employees of Melton & Melton, CPA’s in Houston, Texas.
Sandi comes from a very loyal S.W.U. family. Her great aunt, Katie Triller, was a charter member of the S.W.U. and her grandmother, Mrs. Katie Triller, was a charter member of Branch No. 16. Her mother is a member for 44 years as is her aunt, Mrs. Gloria Serapin. Her deceased aunts, Marie Cieslik and Jean Bukvich, who was our President, were also members for many years. Her sister-in-law, Corinne Winters, is also a member as are many of her cousins. It is an outstanding and dedicated S.W.U. family!
Congratulations and our best wishes for a long and happy life together.
Gladys K. Buck
21st at 2 p.m. at St. Mary’s Baraga Hall.
Now on a sad note. On March 24th Louise Meyer, a dear personal friend of mine suffered a massive heart attack and passed away. Lojzka, as we all knew her, was a long-time member and attended meetings whenever possible. Sincere condolences to her husband Norbert, her sisters, Josephine Meyer and Mary Zaitz. She will be sadly missed by her many friends and relatives.
Anyone interested in attending the Wisconsin State Day convention in Sept. which will be held in Sheboygan, please contact Sec. Joan Yaklich at 545-3716 or Pres. Marion Marolt at 327-3871 for reservations.
Have a nice, safe and enjoyable spring and summer. I hope to see many of you at our Sept. meeting all smiles and ready to plunge into our activities with vigor!!
A speedy recovery to all our sick and shut-in members and friends.
FRAN PIWONI
NO. 20, JOLIET, IL
May is the month of many celebrations:	Mother’s	Day,
Communions, Graduations! And each branch celebrates its Woman of the Year! A beautiful month for
these occasions; even Mother Nature is doing her bit to renew the interest and beginning of new life of Spring time, with crocus, daffodils, tulips and even dandelions!
Our Branch celebration for Woman of the Year will take place on May 20th, at St. Joseph’s Park at which time we will honor our choice, Mary Anzelc. Festivities will begin at 6:30 PM with a buffet dinner; meeting will follow. Hope you all plan to attend; these celebrations are always a great get-to-gether occasion.
We’ve received word that a second baby girl has been born to Liticia and Mark Hotuyec. Congratulations to them and the proud grandparents, Jack and Linda Hotuyec.
We extend our sympathy to the Anzelc family on the death of their brother, Anton. To sisters and sister-in-law who are all members of branch 20, Johanna Gore, Matilda Tadey, Theresa Papesh, Elizabeth Corp and Mary Anzelc, and sister Catherine Emery of Lemont and to brothers William, John, Joseph and Charles. Sympathy also to Roman Possedi on the death of his father; to Donna Strong on the death of her father, Donald Ryan.
In last month’s issue we noted the passing of Mary Kunstek. Mary is the last original charter member of
our branch. She worked many long hours at various functions and cooked many meals for branch activities. She was very active during the Cadet Era. She was honored as “Mother of the Year” in 1952. She was a member for 57 years, joining in 1928. Both her daughters Edith and Ann are members. She is missed by her family and the branch.
Christie Flink, grad daughter of treasurer, Mary Marolt, has undergone more surgery; we wish her a speedy recovery.
How would you like to meet Tom Jones in person?? One of our members had the thrill — at our beautiful Rialto Theatre. Dolores Ambrozich won that prize in a contest sponsored by our local radio station. She got to meet him backstage after one of his performances at the teatre.
We have two members whose “better halves” have been hospitalized, Rose Valek’s husband, Elmer, and Ann Mulvey’s husband. Bob. We wish them well and a short recuperation period.
We have just heard of the death of Elsie Panzella. We extend our deepest sympathy to Toni Fabian, her daughter and Cynthia Conte, grand daughter. Toni Fabian was in attendance at our dinner-dance fund raiser for the Statue of Liberty
dressed as “The Lady.” Mrs. Panzella died on April 3rd.
We want to congratulate all our communicants and graduates; wish all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day, and congratulations to all our Woman of the Year choices. May you have a happy day and enjoy the limelight of “your” day.
To all mothers: “May Mary stand beside you and bless you all your days, for the endless hours of love you’ve shown in endless ways.”
See you at the meeting; come help us celebrate.
HELEN PLUT
NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL
We had such a beautiful Easter Sunday-sunny and so warm. One feels that winter has left us and spring is surely here. Our first meeting of 1986 in March was not too well attended. We are not honoring any one member as Mother of the Year this year but will honor all mothers at a Dinner in late May or June. The date will be set at our April meeting which will be after this article goes to press. Members will have to watch the Church bulletin and local paper for details. We voted to make a donation to the La Salle County Easter Seal Society for our charitable donation for this year. It was also decided to have a bake sale in September as our annual fundraising project.
We were saddened by the sudden and unexpected death of Anna Klopcic in February, especially since she appeared so happy and well in January at the KSKJ dinner. Our sincere sympathy to her family. May God grant her soul Eternal Rest.
Antonia Jakse and Mary Janko spent some time in our local hospitals. We hope they are feeling better now. We pray for good health for all our sick and shut-in members.
On May 4, Amy Schweickert will be making her First Holy Communion at St. Thomas Church in Naperville. As her grandmother, I’ll be joining the rest of the family to celebrate this special occasion with her.
The date of the next meeting will be announced in the Church bulletin. Please try to join us.
ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter
NO. 33, DULUTH, MN
Winifred Ellena was to be “Queen” at our April meeting.
Patricia Betts missed $25.00 attendance prize in March. Winnipeg trip will be on Aug. 14-17.
MARDI GRAS QUEEN
Lori stands with her parents, left and principal at St. Francis Academy.
Prayers for sick member, Dolores Heski. Sympathy prayers for Amelia Thomas’, husband. Marie (Leveille) Evans, 25 year member, died Mar. 14. A $25.00 donation from her husband and daughter will be used for red silk carnations to be used for funerals, something Marie had suggested and took care of for short time before her own illness. It is much appreciated;
May 18 leaving for trip to Poland are Helen Mosack, Stella Mattson, Martha and Tom Caskey, and Harriett and Charlie Ostazeski. Visit will include Czestochowa and five other cities. “Happy Spring” to all!!
LOIS PELANDER, Reporter
NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN
A happy spring to all of you!
Our branch postponed our February meeting because of icy weather conditions, so we met on Wednesday, March 19, our usual night.
We received a letter from our Minnesota president, Rose Maras, concerning membership, and we are encouraged, as always, to enroll new members — how about those grandchildren, you grandmothers? Don’t forget the wonderful scholarships that are being awarded each year to members; time flies by quickly and our grandchildren will be qualified to apply for one. It’s something to think about.
We are told that (he dedication of
Lori Ruth, daughter of Fred and Jonita Ruth, became “MARDI GRAS QUEEN”, at Saint Francis Academy for the second year in a row! Her parents and friends were present at the HONOR ASSEMBLY, which will be long remembered. As she approached the stage, to be crowned by the principal, the Senior Class gave her a standing ovation; the class also won the “SPIRIT TROPHY”.
In order to qualify for Queen and members of the court, students at St. Francis had to sell a certain percentage of Mardi Gras Tickets. Lori accomplished this task by selling the most among the Academy Student Body.
At present Lori is a 4 year National Art Honor student. She graduated from St. Joseph Grade School and is an 86 Graduate from Saint Francis Academy, Joliet, III.
the Slovenian Miners and Laborer’s Memorial in Chisholm will take place on Friday, August 1, so mark that down on your calendar. The usual Jugoslav Day will be celebrated on Saturday, August 2. I’m sure it will be an inspiring and happy event.
We plan to honor Mary Gornick, who has held membership since April 3, 1936 and Angela Planton, who has held membership since June 7, 1936, on April 16, our regular meeting night. We congratulate them and hope they will continue to attend our meetings. Angela has been one of our auditors for many years.
We extend our sympathy to Angeline Morin on her recent loss of her sister from Eveleth.
Plans are being made to honor Adeline Mustonen as Mother of the Year on Wednesday, May 21. We hope it will be as successful as our past celebrations have been, it is always a very memorable time for the honored “Mother.”
Bringing the door prize for our March meeting was Lucille Svatos and it was won by Mary Vollendorf.
Our meeting on April 16 will find Mary Frances Jamnick and Jean Zupanich as hostesses and the door prize will be brought by Agnes Tekautz.
We are coming to the end of our year lor our meetings and I want to again thank our membership for the outstanding attendance at our meetings — it is encouraging and we do seem to have a good time — we seem to fill the parish hall with conversation and laughter during our social hours.
ADELINE MUSTONEN
HERITAGE NEWS AND VIEWS
Irene M. Odorizzi
BRAVO BRANCH NO. 2
Another donation to Heritage has arrived and this time from Branch No. 2, Chicago. They profitted by $200.00 for the Mystery Gift sale of special tickets. One of the members, Sallie Kavcic, was the lucky winner of a beautiful white crocheted afghan.
Dolores Puhek, Sec. of the branch, stated in her letter that two raffles were held and $191.00 was collected. The branch then added an additional $9.00 making the final figure an outstanding $200.00. This is the second large check that Heritage has received from Br. 2 and we are truly appreciative of their support in helping us achieve our goals for an outstanding Heritage Museum.
We applauded the officers of the branch for their organization, fresh ideas and dedication. The members are to be commended for supporting their leaders because only in working together toward a similar goal can all these wonderful ideas materialize and the branch and the organization move ahead.
BOARD MEETS
At the March SWU Board Meeting, the National Officers were able to view a presentation of ZLATI ČASI or GOLDEN TIMES which is the slide show presentation of the history of our beloved organization. They were most appreciative and complimentary about the presentation and plans are underway to visit other locals with the slide production.
MEMORIAL PLAQUE DONATION
Many thanks to Hermine and Bob Dicke for the $100.00 donation to the Heritage Memorial Plaque. How appropriate that the name of the daughter of our foundress be included on this plaque. We not only thank Hermine and Bob for this donation but also for all the past support. Hermine has also donated a large framed photo of her mother taken during the years 1924-26 when she was Third Vice-President on the National Board of the K.S.K.J. We certainly appreciate all of the mementos which are a part of Mrs. Prisland’s past.
It is interesting to note that Marie Prisland was the only woman on that National Board sixty years ago and there is still only one woman on the Board at the present.
ARTIFACT DONATION
Mrs. Irene Jagodnik remembered our Heritage Museum once again when she attended the SWU Board Meeting in Joliet. Irene brought a lovely handmade Communion kneeler which was donated by Rose Milner McHugh of Branch No. 50, Euclid, Ohio. Our sincere appreciation Rose for your lovely donation which will be included in our Museum display.
ANOTHER MYSTERY GIFT DONATION
Anne Kapel of Br. No. 100 in Fontana sent a check for $5.00 for the Mystery Gift which they received. Even though the branch didn’t hold raffle, they sent a token donation for the gift and used it as a door prize.
We encourage other branches to wrap a gift in a box and without disclosing the contents of the box, give it away during a meeting or another event being held by your branch. Of course, Heritage is appreciative of all donations sent from these Mystery Gifts.
VISITORS FROM THE WEST COAST
Marion and Keith Bowers of St. Helena, California spent some time in the Washington, D.C. area during mid-February. My husband, Kenneth, and I were able to relax with this very congenial couple over Sunday Brunch at the Casa Maria Restaurant in Alexandria, Va.
The Bowers have a vineyard in the Napa Valley area, which unfortunately suffered from flooding soon after they returned home. News of this catastrophe was televised daily.
Marion who is formerly of Joliet (nee Juricic) and a member of the SWU reads the Zarja without fail each month. We are able to become friends through the IMMIGRANT series. It’s great to see how the ZARJA brings people together from all over the U.S.
Keith is involved in genealogy and has spent years tracing his family tree. This is one of the reasons why they made a visit to the east coast. Both of the Bowers are very interested in ther heritage and they have definitely taken steps to record their findings as well as travel to Europe searching for early records and visiting with distant relatives.
It was super to have you visit! Come again!
SLOVENIAN GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY FORMING
Are you interested in Slovenian Genealogy? Then you might want to send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the following:
SLOVENIAN GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY, 6625 Jeffrey Lane, Lafayette, In. 47905.
A passer-by was kind enough to snap this photo in front of the Casa Maria Restaurant when the Bowers visited the Washington, D.C. area. Standing left to right: Keith Bower, Irene Odorizzi, Marion Bower, Kenneth Odorizzi.
The Strategic Consumer:
By Bernadette J. Kovačič
On Lowering the Cost of Car Insurance Rates
The privilege to drive an automobile carries with it enormous insurance costs. Because of the high risk involved in driving, there is a high price to pay for protection against liability, injury and loss involving your car.
According to the Consumer Federation of America, the automobile is among the ten most dangerous consumer products you can purchase. In the United States, one person dies every 12 minutes in a traffic accident, accumulating to approximately 50,000 deaths each year from car accidents.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, on the average 150 million drivers spend about $45 billion a year in car insurance premiums. Insurance companies claim that rising costs of car insurance during the past decade are attributed to a nearly 300 percent increase in auto repair and maintenance costs, a 500 percent increase in hospital rates and a 300 percent increase in physicians’ fees.
Despite the astronomical costs, consumers reap the benefits of owning a car, such as not having to wait for buses that do not arrive on time, going for a ride on the spur of the moment at any time of the day, and being able to do a week’s worth of grocery shopping and stacking it into your car. Most of us who own cars can agree that the benefits are greater than the risks, thus we are willing to pay the higher costs.
When you buy auto insurance you are purchasing a package deal including the following different kinds of coverages:
Liability for bodily injury and property damage.
This covers you or an authorized driver of your car if involved in a person’s property damage or in a person’s injury.
No-fault or personal injury protection. This policy coverage is required in half the states in the U.S. It reimburses the driver, passengers, or pedestrians involved in an accident for economic losses like medical, lost wages, services and funeral expenses.
Collision insurance. This coverage involves payment from your insurance company for damages incurred to your car in a collision, without regard to fault. If your car is totaled, you will be reimbursed for the value of your car (cost minus depreciation). Collision is available with a choice of deductibles, typically beginning at $100. If the repair bill exceeds the deductible, the amount paid by the policy holder toward the bill, the insurance company will pay the rest.
Comprehemsive insurance. This coverage protects you in case of damage to your car caused by theft, vandalism, fire, explosions, floods and other such accidents.
Uninsured motorist insurance. This coverage protects you and your passengers if injured in an accident with an uninsured or a hit-and-run driver. Additionally you and your family are covered if injured by a hit-an-run driver while walking on the street.
There are also options available to help cover medical payment insurance and other aspects of this nature.
The basic coverages summarized above are usually standard from company to company. However, there are large variations in premiums. There are around 1,000
insurance companies to choose from and annual premiums can vary by 100 percent.
Now that you know some facts and statistics, you are still questioning — what can I do to lower car insurance rates for myself and my family? You already know that an excellent driving record and no tickets will help keep costs stable. But, overall if you drive an intermediate size car, it is costing you about 5 cents in insurance costs for every mile you drive.
By comparison shopping, avoidance of unnecessary coverages, and taking advantage of discounts available, you can reduce your car insurance bill. Some strategies you can take are as follows:
• Familiarize yourself with the terms in an insurance policy, such as liability, collision, comprehensive and no fault.
• Call the nearest state insurance office or consumer protection agency to find out if your state publishes an insurance rate guide.
• Find a broker whom you can trust for good advice and service.
• Ask questions and purchase only that coverage which you need for adequate protection.
Review your car insurance policy yearly and decide if changes would benefit you depending upon the age of your car or other insurance plans you already hold through your employer. Some useful recommendations are as follows:
•Carrying collision and comprehensive for older cars, four years or older is probably not worth the premiums because their book or cash value is low.
• Optional coverage such as medical, disability or accidental death may be unnecesary if you hold an employer-paid health insurance plan or life insurance policy.
• Choosing higher deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage is likely to lower premiums. In selecting higher deductibles in the $200-$500 range and expecting to deduct your repair losses on your income taxes by making the IRS a co-insurer can result in financial loss. Losses can be deducted on your income tax only if the amount is more than 3% of your adjusted gross income.
Some other points to consider which could lower your car insurance rates by up to 40% are:
• If you commute to work in a car pool
• If you drive less than 8,000 miles a year
• If your car is equipped with an anti-theft device
• If you need to insure more than one car
• If you took a defensive driving course sponsored by the National Safety Council or its regional affiliates
• If you drive a safe car (most American made cars are considered safer)
•If your child took driver’s education, has a good scholastic record, or is away at school for at least six months out of the year.
• If you are over 65 years old
• If you area farmer.
Good luck! Drive defensively and wear your seat belts.
NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN
Spring is here! Easter is around the corner! What a wonderful time of the year! We will be meeting again next week on Wednesday. I hope we have a good turnout. A representative from the Iron World USA will be present to give us some input on their opening and their summer plans.
At our last meeting Mr. Frank Tekautz showed movies on his recent trip to Slovenia. Many of our members were on the trip with him so we all enjoyed his presentation. Thanks a lot, Frank.
Plans are being made to have a May 4th luncheon honoring all the women in our branch. Let’s all attend and make it a huge success.
Easter is around the corner. I really enjoy the holiday. I try to do all the things that my mother did on this holiday. I still dye eggs and have an egg tree outdoors and make the traditional food. With my family at home it is a special holiday.
Get well wishes to those who are ailing and especially to Fran Kelly Verant who had an accident and injured her shoulder. Bless you all!
ROSE NIEMI
NO. 40, LORAIN, OH
Happy Mothers Day! May you have a lovely day with family and friends.
Our March meeting was well attended by 21 members — and a lovely meeting was held. Plans were made for our “Mother of the Year” dinner honoring Agnes Tomazin. Date set for May 8th; watch the Journal for place, etc.
The meeting had as hostesses, Angie Voytko, Frances Tilosanec, Angie Zgonc and Agnes Mroski. A delicious dessert lunch was served and we sang “Happy Birthday”.
Door prize donated by Angeline Brehany was won by Mary Matos.
Many thanks to Agnes Bucher, Helen Sekular and Angeline Brehany on their generous contributions to our treasury.
Also to all our members who donated prizes; it is greatly appreciated.
Bill and Agnes Bucher are vacationing in Florida, received a lovely card from them. Agnes has been ill there — hurry and get well.
Also on the sick list are Jean Yelenec and Mary Hočevar — may they be on the road ro recovery.
New grandma’s: Angie Tomazine, Agnes Mroski and Angie Zgonc. Congratulations one and all!
IN LOVING MEMORY
Anna Zgonc,age 101
Our beloved member, Anna Zgonc, died February 21st, 1986 at Ely Bloomenson Hospital. She was born in Slovenia on December 10, 1884, lived in Gilbert, Minnesota over 60 years and spent the last 14 years in Ely. She was a faithful member of Br. 31, and served as president - also became the Mother of the Year.
At the age of 94 she was a great, great grandmother!
She is survived by two sons, Frank and Louis of Ely and four daughters, Mary Z. Palcher, Ely, Mollie Povhi, Glendale, Arizona, Sophie Krize, Fairbanks, Alaska and Rosalie Schiff of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. There are 14 children, 21 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.
Her sweet, thoughtful, loving and generous nature will always be remembered by her family and friends.
Reporter
Sad to report the death of Mary Tomazic, mother of Mrs. Helen Sekular, Mrs. Mary Klein and Frank J.; four grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Her husband, Lawrence, died in 1965. May she rest, in peace.
Please don’t forget on Memorial Day to remember our beloved dead.
I’ll close with this little English blessing:
t< May your path bestrewn with flowers, memories, friends and happy hours.
May blessings come from heaven above, to fill your life with peace and love.
MARY PLOSZAJ
NO. 41, CLEVELAND, OH
A pleasant surprise awaited our members when we met for our meeting on March 18th. A mini Jugoslav artifacts display, brought in by Agnes Perc, was set up for viewing and was most interesting. Many years ago her mother received 2-8 inch dolls in complete costumes. They are very delicate and carved of wood. Beautiful!! Agnes also brought a glass bottle; carved and sealed within was a cross surrounded by all the symbols of Easter and the Resurrection: tiny carvings of 3 nails (painted black), a spear, a sword, and numberous other symbols. In back of the cross was a tiny ladder leading to the top of the cross where rested a chalice — the final hope of life everlasting. It was so appropriate for the Easter season. Agnes Also had “Pipke” and wooden plates engraved with a message of thanks to her family for their help. Thank you, Agnes, for sharing your unique treasures with us!
It was wonderful to see Julia Tavzel back again after a long illness. She was always such a staunch backer of Br. 41. We all wish you a return to good health, Julia. Bertha Cup entered into rest on March 5th. Our prayers and deepest sympathy are extended to her family. Our faithful member, Theresa Mihevc, had spinal surgery and is at St. Vincent Hospital. Let’s cheer her up with get-well-wishes! We hope to see her at our Member of the Year Mass on May 18th!
Everyone is Florida bound; Fay Aleks is gone for two weeks and Rose Puzdar is visiting with her daughter. Enjoy!! Justine and John Prhne left March 3rd and drove to Florida and visited many friends. They had wonderful, balmy weather. A pleasant time was spent with Louis and Mary Prhne who had moved to Englewood, Florida from Maple Heights, Ohio. Mary Lou (who had been so active in Br. 42) did not take long to become superactive in all Senior Citizen’s activities. She is manager for Senior Citizen Luncheons provided by the government. Her favorite hobby is collecting beautiful shells cast up on the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.
Congratulations are in order for Justine Prhne’s granddaughter Maureen Klemens who will graduate from St. Mary’s College—Notre Dame in May with a degree in Nursing. May Success and Happiness be yours, Maureen!
Most important was the finalization of plans to honor as
f
In Me mori a m \
V BLAG SFOMIIN f
Member of the Year our own dear Cecilia Wolf on Sunday, May 18th. After a Mass at St. Mary’s Church (Holmes Ave.), celebrated by Fr. Victor Tome, we will meet at the Slovenian Workmans Home, at 12:30, 15335 Waterloo Rd. for a full dinner to be prepared by Mary Frank. Cost will be $7.50. Please join us to honor a very special lady! Honored also will be our 50 year members who will receive SWU emblem pins and corsages.
Justine and Sutton Girod are in Arizona visiting their daughter Janice and enjoying 85’ plus weather.
JUSTINE GIROD from Glendale, Arizona
NO. 42, MAPLE HGTS., OH
Now that we are headed for summer, a lot of you will be planning outdoor activities. Our March meeting was well-attended. Greetings to the May birthday ladies, Kathleen Hrovat, Dorothy Ponikvar, Mary Stimetz, Donna Wilk, Mary Filips, Angie Zupanc, Veda Shega, Melinda Prhne, Gretchen Wilk and Mitzi Champa.
Since there will be no June issue, greetings to the June birthday ladies, Mary Ann Filip, Jennie Intihar, Betty Ann Kastelic, Dolores Lipnos, Olga Ponikvar, Sally Prhne and Katherine Gruden. To our shut-ins and sick members, our prayers are with you.
Congratulations to Ann Rezin on her new granddaughter. Our travelers are Teresa Gorup, Ann Vercek to Florida, Marge and A1 Lipnos visited with their son, Jim, his wife and granddaughter from Oregon for one week. Olga Ponikvar and husband, William, traveled to Spring Field, Virginia to visit their son, Ron, and family and to see the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C.
Happy Mother’s Day to all!
DONNA STUBLJER
*	* *
Congratulations to Jeanne Legan on the birth of her first grandson, fourth grandchild. Jeanne is retired from Ohio Bell after 28 years, is now living in Brunswick, Ohio and keeps busy with her family and their children who all live in close proximity.
Mary Yemec’s eldest grandchild, Air Force Lt. Michael Yemec, has been reassigned from San Francisco to Wurtsmith Air Force (SAC) Base in Michigan. Maybe now Mary will have more of an opportunity to see her grandson.
1 - Charlotte Melanz
Johanna Zore - age 75
2 - Jennie Intihar
3 - Margaret Jamnik - age 86
5	- Margaret Kaluza - age 90
55-yr member
7 - Mary Kotar - age 88
8 - Mary Kočevar - age 97
50-yr member 10 - Josephine Bezik Mary March
12 - Sophie Ermenc - age 83
Mary Ogradowski
13 - Kate Mikulin - age 96
Mary Mirkovich - age 82 Mary Hemanich - age 76
14 - Agnes Lach - age 77
Anna Pinculis - age 88 Jennie Stefanic - age 95 58-yr member Frances Streetz - age 75 54-yr member
16	- AnnBublich
20 - Marie Gregorich
Mary Kunstek - age 95 58-yr charter member
21 - MaryMismas-age79
24 - Mary Krogulski - age 80
25 - Anna Kosec-age 88
57-yr member Frances Kovacic - age 80 54-yr member Frances Simončič - age 81
50-yr member Anna Zust - age 92
28 - Theresa Sustarich - age 100 57-yr charter member
30	- Julia Verbic-age 90
40	- Anna Znamenak - age 93
51-yr member
42 - Anna Molek-age87
43 - Crystal Mihelčič
50 - Mary Stusek - age 96
56-yr member Charter branch 32
Jean Pierman 71 - Mary DeLost - age 88 100 - Agnes Klopack - age 86
Congratulations and best wishes to Lynn Marie Hrovat who will be married to James Rink on June 28th in Pittsburgh.
Dolores Lipnos is back on her feet after a short stay at Suburban Hospital and we are glad to hear that she’s doing all right.
A few of us shared the 50th Anniversary celebration with our sister Branch 73 (Warrensville, Ohio) on April 6th. We extend our heartiest congratulations and wish them many more years of loyalty, unity and strong membership.
Mother of the Year Mass followed by a light supper is scheduled for
2	- Ann Mary Vucko - 63 yrsold 41-yr member
2	- Helen Weble-72 yrs old 44-yr member 7 - Lucia Jerin-93 yrsold 52-yr member 10 - Frances Tomsich - 85 yrs old 47-yr member 16 - Anna Buck-92 yrs old 54-yr member
16 - Tina Ziebart - 76 yrs old
16-yr member
17 - Jean F Kasun - 44 yrs old
5-yr member
23 - AnneTekavec-55 yrsold
8-yr member
24 - Anna Klopcic - 83 yrs old
52-yr member
25 - Mary Telic-81 yrsold
34-yr member
26 - Ruth Mravinec - 66 yrs old
13-yr member
40 - MaryTomazic-86yrsold
53-yr member
41 - Bertha Ann Cup - 62 yrs old
46-yr member
45 - Augustina Knez - 86 yrs old 37-yr member 45 - Clarice Richter - 50 yrs old 11-yr member 50 - Rose Želodec - 80 yrs old
47-yr member
56 - Hilda Pogorelc-74 yrs old
40-yr member
83 - Mary Radinovich-91 yrsold 44-yr member 85 - Jennie Blatnik-98 yrs old 49-yr member - Charter 88 - Jennie Stermec-87 yrs old
41-yr member
95 - Anna Starcevich - 77 yrs old
35-yr member
May 13th to honor a very special lady, Mrs. Anna Rezin. Everybody is welcome to attend.
Summer “Picnic in the Park” is planned for Sunday, August 3rd. Mark it on your calendar and be sure to invite your families. Burgers, games, prizes, etc. More details via the mails.
How about those 1986 dues? Com’on gals, let’s ante up!
Keep in mind, there will be no meetings during the months of June, July and August, but let’s try to keep in touch. See you at the picnic and have a good summer!
MARGE CHURCH
COUNT ME IN!
by Fr. David Stalzer
The Statue of Liberty was an idea bom of and a gift from the people of France. Her sculptor was a French patriot named Frederic Bartholdi. The engineer was Gustave Eiffel, of the famed Eiffel Tower.
Bartholdi conceived of the Lady as a symbol of freedom and French-American friendship. The people of France raised $400,000 in the 1800’s to pay for her.
Once she was up, she became the image of freedom, hope and opportunity to those who poured into historic Ellis Island.
Slovenians are part of the American dream and spirit, so we join other ethnic groups who are raising funds to restore the Lady and Ellis Island. July 4 and October 28 are the important dates in the life of the Lady.
"Slovenians for the Lady” is hoping to raise $100,000.00 by July 1, 1986. We are calling out to all Slovenes, both Individuals or branches to contribute something toward the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Let SWU be counted among those who care and are truly grateful for freedom and opportunity. Please help the Lady and Ellis Island!
The 1986 officers of Br. 32, Euclid, one of our most active branches in northern Ohio area. They are, from left to right:
Seated: Dorothy Lamm, president and Caroline Lokar, Sgt. at Arms; Standing: Jos. Skabar and Lavona Avitt, Auditors, Jo Comenshek, Secretary, Jo Gornik, Hostess, Ceal Znidar, Vice-President, Joann Weglarz, Recording Secretary, Anne Cook, Treasurer and Esther Garbincus, Reporter.
Br. 32 has many plans for the new year and the officers invite all members to participate and enjoy! Their Mother’s Day party is May 21st.
SLOVENIANS FOR THE LADY
Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc.
Contributions received at Home
Office January 1 to March 1,1986
TOTAL VIA SWU HOME OFFICE
-	$4,551.00
$1,000.00
Pauline Caldwell, Mountain Home, AK
$500.00
Western Slavonic Association home office - Denver, CO
$200.00
United Slovenian Society, Cleveland, OH
$150.00
SWU branch No. 12, Milwaukee, WI
$100.00
Prekmurje Social Club, Chicago, IL
Memoriam Anne Klobučar from daughter Helen Behrman, Hoffman Estates, IL
$50.00
St. Martin Lodge No. 1, Western Slavonic Assn, Denver, CO
American Mutual Life Assn No. 62, Newburg, OH
West Park Button Box Club, Parma, OH
SWU Branch No. 85, DePue, IL SWU Branch No. 103, Washington, D.C.
$25.00
SWU Branch No. 19, Eveleth, MN SWU Branch No. 22, Bradley, IL SWU Branch No. 23, Ely, MN SWU Branch No. 79, Enumclaw, WA
SWU Branch No. 100, Fontana, CA James and Madeline Debevec, Cleveland, OH Tillie Koch, Laureldale, PA Rose Scoff, San Francisco, CA Memoriam parents and relatives from Mary Macek Berus, New Port Richey, FL Fontana Slovene Button Box Club, Fontana, CA Milwaukee Slovenian Retirees Club, Milwaukee, WI Newburgh-Maple Heights Slovenian Pensioners Club, Maple Heights, OH
$20.00
Memoriam John Evetz, Joliet, IL, from daughters Marie DiLorenzo-Francine Donahue-Josephine Hiller-Ann Manago-Kate Martin and Rose Sekola Memoriam John and Barbara Kobe, Joliet, IL from daughters Dorothy Cwudzinski Ann Zelko and Louise Gregorash
$10.00
SWU Branch No. 40, Lorain, OH American Fraternal Union No. 187, Frostburg, MD Edward and Sally Furlich, Cleveland, OH Jane Hudak, Baden, PA Florence Mlekush-Mary Sell, Cleveland, OH Bertha Marciniak-Gen Grilc-Louise Murphy, DePue, IL William and Dorothy Prebis, North Olmstead, OH Frank and Pauline Pustotnik, Geneva, OH John and Margaret Rems, Joliet, IL Vincent and Martha Rozman, Euclid, OH Memoriam Mary Ann and Anton Vehar from daughter Josephine Oblak, Felton, CA Ed and Dorothy Zalar, Cleveland, OH
$5.00
Joseph Bokar, Euclid, OH John and Florence Boldin, Greenfield, WI Joseph and Mary Jerse, Euclid, OH Margaret Lesick, Tacoma, WA John Zakrajšek Jr., Elkhart, IN Memoriam Ursula and Frank Nagoda from son Albert Nagoda, Export, PA $3.00
Agnes Koble, Bedford Hts., OH
Presenting...
Happy Wedding Anniversary Jonita and Fred Ruth May 23 rd Irene and Ken Odorizzi
NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI
The March meeting was somewhat different from the others. We had our lunch of ham sandwiches, pickles, potato salad and cakes at 1:00 p.m. and the meeting at 2:00 p.m. Our birthday gals were Mary Martino, Josephine Verbick, Elsie Gallun, and Mary Strazisher. The food and cakes were delicious.
The April 27th Mass for living and deceased members was discussed and all arrangements made for the breakfast. Our Mother’s Day dinner is on Monday evening, May 12th at 7:00 p.m. sharp. Cocktails from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. It will be held at Country Gardens, 911 W. Layton Ave. Call in your reservation. Our Mother of the Year is Sandy Schachtschneider and we congratulate her. We also selected a date for our Annual Fall Poultry Card Party on Sunday, November 2nd 1:00 p.m. at John’s Hall, 35th & Lincoln Ave. Start accummulating your door prizes which we will need.
Angela Pasler, who will be 100 years young on May 27th we extend our “Happy Birthday Wishes”! She is living at home and in fairly good health. Our travelers, Christine Stein, Fran and Louie Widemsek spent a week in Las Vegas trying to come home with a bundle, but they all said they only broke even. Better luck next time. Angie Johnstone also was in Las Vegas, but she was visiting her daughter, son-in-law and grandson who had a birthday. Catherine Kurtius visited her daughter and family in Colorado. Ceil Groth spent two weeks in Indiana with her niece and family. Fran and Leon Sagadin are in Arizona visiting their son and family for 1 month. John and Ann Rebernisek spent Easter with their daughter and her husband in Detroit.
We welcome our new members, Marie Tratnik, Susan McDonnell,
Jeremiah Heatherly, Kelly Power Joan Hynek. We extend get well wishes to all our sick and shut-ins. Our deepest sympathy to Rose Hribar & family on the death of her husband, Leo. May his soul and all our faithful departed rest in peace. Next meeting is May 28th.
ROSE KRAEMER
NO. 50, CLEVELAND, OH
A sharp contrast from red in February was to green in March. It sure was green! Only about 3 ladies didn’t wear it. Also, it was not profitable for our treasury this month. Not many dimes. In May we will have a surprise. We will also honor our Mother of the Year, Loretta Hlabse unless another celebration will be in the near future, which will be a dinner with all of us at a restaurant of her choice; something new for our branch and hopefully it will be a nice get together. Another innovation will be a day trip. So be prepared to have some fun in the coming months.
Did you know that we are getting old, too! Our branch will be having a 55th anniversary this year. More about this at the meetings. Also branch No. 73 of Warrensville, Ohio has celebrated their 50th anniversary in April and we hope they had a great time. Congratulations. Since it was the lenten season we had cheese and crackers during our social period. Our song bird and Valentine Queen, Caroline Budan, was our hostess who did the treating. Our 50-50 game is quite popular and we had 7 winners. I was one of them.
Our sympathy to the family of our member, Rose Želodec, who passed away. Our sympathy and strength also to Ann Glavic whose son, age 37, passed away leaving 2 small children. Ann - enjoy your grandchildren now as they are what he left you. We wish we had something like grandchildren to remember from our son. It seems God giveth and God taketh it away. Also, Amy Gad and Helen Hraster lost their mother and mother-in-law who was 100 years old upon her death. She really earned her rest.
Our travelers! Stella Baum and Ann Budis went to Atlantic City. Mary Vadnal, Joan Fellenstein, Stella Rostick and Aggie Flanders to Florida. Everyone said what a good time they had, did much and saw much and enjoyed the weather which was such a contrast from our snow. No shoveling for the husbands and that’s what makes a vacation. Eh?
Our sick ladies, hopefully convalescing by now, are Frances Marold, Mary Chesnik, Agnes Bradek, Vera Nosan, Angie Cestaric and Helen Hraster (a new hip). Do take care and shortly we’ll see you at our meetings.
Quite a few of branch No. 50 members surprised Frances Hrovat on her “special” birthday at Alexander Restaurant in March. They had a nice dinner and a piece of birthday cake to take home, too.
Josephine Petrovic’s son Robert, now the head of the English Dept, at our own Euclid High School professes a deep love for children. He and his wife have five children and Josephine is glad to be the “grandma”. Our junior member, Kim Bischof, has won an honorable mention in an AAA contest. She was the only one in her school, St. Williams, and in the fourth grade to win the honor. Our member and the granddaughter of Bea Tome is celebrating her 7th birthday and will be making her first communion from St. Augustus in New York State. We must commend Celia “Cilka” Dolgan for doing a superb job with her Circle 2 children and the success of her Spring Contest and Button Box Bash. Congratulations to our young winners and celebrants and to our teachers.
Make life and bookkeeping a little easier for our treasurer, Irene, by paying your dues on time or catch up, so that your name will be in the fish bowl by the June Meeting. One person will win a year’s dues. It just might be you!
It was nice to see so many of our No. 50 ladies working at Holy Cross Church preparing for a successful rummage sale. We, ladies get involved, don’t we? It’s good!
AMERICAN
SLOVENIAN
CATHOLIC
UNION
LIFE INSURANCE FOR THE FAMILY
HOME OFFICE: 2439 GLENWOOD AVENUE • JOLIET, IL 60435 (815) 741-2001
Anna L. Hodnik:
Learn Slovenian!
May is the month we read the applications for the scholarship entrants and pick the winners. This month’s words will deal with this topic.
scholarship-štipendija application-prošnja high school-gimnazija education-vzgoja achievement-dosežek
How to diet. A woman was dining in a hotel. As soon as the meal was served she put pepper on everything. She even peppered a luscious chocolate cake. “It’s not necessary to do that” a waiter told her, “Oh, but it is,” she replied with a smile. “It keeps me from eating it.”
Enjoy the lovely spring and flowers (instead of our cold winter) and have a nice memorable holiday. I’ll write again in July - no June ZARJA. Take care.
VERA ŠEBENIK
NO. 54, WARREN, OH
Our card party was a huge success. We really did great! Our group, small as it was, worked very hard and we realized a good amount for our treasury. Our Pres., Jo Kassan, was chairman and a special thanks to Barb Jaros who made and donated all the table prizes-which were ceramic baskets and a large basket that we used as a prize. Thanks also to those who helped on Saturday and Sunday. They were Trudy Thompson, Anne Brdek, Millie Pallock, Marge Patrick, Vic Zuga, Stephanie Spelich, Margaret Lunder, Anne Savor and yours truly, who all helped to make it such a great day.
Special thanks to Joseph Kassan, Jo's son who donated the raffle tickets and brought us all shamrocks and other goodies. Barb is Jo Jaros’ daughter, and they are two great young people. Jo should be so proud of them. Everyone wants to know when our next card party is, they enjoyed it so.
Our Mother-Daughter Luncheon will be on May 20th at the Elks on Rt. 422 at 12:30. You can bring a guest, door prizes and canned food for prizes. We will honor Margaret Racher as our Mother of the Year. Happy Mother’s Day to you and God’s Blessings!
JOANNE PONIKVAR
character-značaj
competition-tekmovanje
reputation-sloves
activities—delavnosti
need-potreba
conscientious-vestnost
successful—uspešen
winner-zmagovalec
ideal-vzor
example-zgled
mark—Šolska ocena
NO. 55, GIRARD, OH
Pease’s footsteps as she has done a terrific job and I’ll do my best to keep you informed of our activities.
We were happy to see our member Ann Gunther back from her 4 month stay in Florida, which she spent with her son and family. Elizabeth Havaich and her husband are also enjoying the nice weather of Florida. Frances and Mike Mollis are traveling the Western States.
At our Mother’s Day Party we will be honoring our Mother of the Year, Frances Racher, who has been a member for many years.
Our prayers go out to all those who may be ill and wishes for a speedy recovery.
“A Friend" by Thomas C. Gallagher
Our Mother’s Day Banquet will be held at Alberini’s Restaurant on Rt. 422 in Niles, Ohio. The day will be the second Sunday, May 18th at 2 p.m. You will be contacted by telephone. You may also bring your husband and children.
There is a new arrival, born Nov. 23, 1985 and her name is Mary Catherine Ansbro. Her proud parents are Shawn and Dolores Ansbro and the very happy grandparents are Harry and Dolores De Pietro. Congratulations to all!
Ladies with birthdays in May are Mary Maček, Dori Kregar, Virginia Rostan, Dorothy Magill, Mary Salajko, Anka Kregar (our new secretary and treasurer) and Frances Luke. Happy Birthday to all!
Love,
ROSEMARY
Mary J. Turk our Mother of the Year!
Good wishes from Br. 25 members!
NO. 57, NILES, OH
Our first meeting of the year was held on March 11th with just a fair attendance; and now with warm weather coming we would like to see some of the members come out who haven’t been with us for some time. Come and help us plan our Mother’s Day Party. We have an enjoyable evening at our meetings so do come our!
Our same officers were reelected for the new year. We have a new recording secretary; yours truly. It is going to be hard to follow in Ann
Take time to love A nd time to care.
Take time to feel For others’fare.
Just let them know That even when Their world goes wrong You 'II be a friend.
FRANCES STANEC
NO. 59, BURGETTSTOWN, PA
Hello! After a long winter’s nap, I woke up to see that Spring has arrived. No meetings were held in January or February due to the weather. Last Dec. we held elections of officers. Our current officers will remain the same. They are, Pres., Frances Korošec, V. Pres., Louise Paskitius, Sec., Virginia Bendick, R. Sec., Hilda Montequin, and Reporter and Treasurer, Rosemary Orenchuk.
Virginia Bendick spent a relaxing week in Florida visiting with family. Hilda Montequin went on a one day bus trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Congratulations to our Jr. member, Kimberlee Orenchuk, for winning first place for the senior handicap bowling champ for the Coca-Cola tournament held at the Burgettstown Slovenian lanes. Kim has been bowling for 6 years.
Mothers, our day is fast approaching. Hope all of you have a Happy and Blessed Mother’s Day. Let your family wait on you for the day. Sending out warm cheery wishes for those who are not feeling well. I need news to write an article. Please members, let me know of your happenings. Until next time, have a bright, sunny day.
ROSEMARY ORENCHUK
COMBINED CLEVELAND BRANCHES
It was the first day of Spring on Thursday, March 20th but it looked in some places in Cleveland like the start of winter. In spite of the weather 8 branches and 17 members were present at the meeting.
All Board members were present. After a prayer, Jo Comenshek read the Minutes of the Dec. meeting. A motion was made and approved to increase the salary of the Board members by $10 per year.
The discussion about the Toni Turek Scholarship Fund was approved in December. $67 was collected from the present members and they approved a further donation of $100 from the Combined Branches’ Treasury.
A bouquet of flowers was sent to the funeral home for Albina Uehlein when she passed away in December.
The financial report of Kay Yuratovec was read and accepted. There was a thank you letter from Milo Uehlein and family. We mourn the dear lady and wish her eternal peace and reward. Our comfort to the family.
All present branches gave their reports on activities or loss of any members, also on gaining new ones. Mary Taucher of Br. 47 reported they will celebrate their 55th anniversary this year. More on this event in my next report.
Members of Br. 25 distributed tickets to give them some financial help. Three prizes are being offered. Jo Comenshek of Br. 32 reported they enrolled new juniors
at the same time lost some members.
The Twirlettes have two fathers instructing them now and they are very good and precise teachers. Hope they continue the good work.
Br. 50 will celebrate their 55th anniversary combined with yearly Ohio Michigan State Meeting on Oct. 26th. Mass will be at St. Mary’s church on Holmes Ave. More details will be available later.
National Auditor Irene Jagodnik and Vice-President Cirila Kermavner returned from the National Board meeting in Joliet. They gave us the insights on the Heritage Museum, Slide show of the history of the SWU and reported that plans are under away for the National Convention in 1987.
Br. 73 is celebrating the 50th anniversary on April 6th with mass and dinner. Seven members including 4 charter members will receive recognition for 50 years membership. They will honor their 25 year president, Kay Yuratovec.
As this goes into print in the glorious month of May we wish all members a happy, healthy spring. Next meeting is Thursday June 26th at the same time and place. Please come and bring others. Members of Br. 10 will be hostesses.
Meeting adjourned at 3:45 p.m.
God be with you on your paths.
Marie Beck
NO. 67, BESSEMER, PA
This is April with the winter days behind us and sunny, warm days ahead. We should come out of our shells and enjoy the company of our neighbors and friends.
Just three attended the meeting in April: Ann Markovich, Treasurer, Mary Percic, Secretary and one member, Ann Peterson. Started thinking we cannot go on like this. We have been together a long time.
It has been a year (April 6th) since our president, Mary Snezic, passed away. I miss her very much and our lodge has not been the same since.
Selected as Mother of the Year is Mrs. Mary Slavich. She will be 90 this year on Dec. 9th. She is still very active. I watch from my kitchen window and see her in the yard when no one is around and she is out there working. God bless her and keep her healthy.
For the next meeting, please try to attend so we can save our lodge. Pay your dues if you are in arrears. Thank you.
May God bless the sick and shut-in members with good health. I will see you at the next meeting. Happy Mother’s Day to all!
MARY PERCIC
m
14
NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE HTS., OH
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO EACH AND EVERYONE.
After that long and drawn out winter — Isn’t it refreshing to look forward to days without wind and snow? Let’s enjoy all the warm and beautiful days that we can, because before too long they too will be gone.
Our article will be brief this month, this will allow you time to read all about the members who have been picked by lodge members as their “Mother of the Year”. And congratulations to our own members, Frances Cazin, on being our candidate.
Our trip to Florida in February (so long ago) was dimmed by the virus that hit the majority of us on the trip. Unfortunately, while most of us were sick the weather was great, when we got better, the weather got worse. But it did not hinder the main purpose of the trip, being with friends, having fun, music, laughter and just plain good times. Dad (now 94 years old) said he would be waiting for us next year, and the group assured him they would be waiting to return for No. 95.
GET WELL WISHES: Are extended to (Aunt) Agnes Walters who spent a few days in Marymount Hospital and who is now confined to her home, receiving lots of TLC from her husband. Prayers and well wishes are with you. Those same
prayers and well wishes include any of our sister-members who are not feeling well.
OUR SYMPATHY: Is extended to Helen Kunka on the passing of her sister (Lottie) and to Sally Kunka and the death of her sister (Jean). We likewise extend a note of sympathy to the Steoic Family who lost their father-brother Anthony, whose wife Pauline passed away just a few months ago. Eternal rest grant to them, O Lord.
The July-August Issue of ZARJA will include all the details of our Golden Jubilee Celebration. Hopefully, many of you took part in that celebration.
It was nice to again visit with the members of the Slovenian Art Guild at the St. Clair National Home. Their display of art is tremendous and beautiful. Having completed one splash-cloth, I was delighted to obtain a copy of the booklet covering the history of this project. Incidentally, when I offered the splash-cloth (framed) as a door prize, I was pleased that Helen Dusek, our Vice-President, was the winner. I hope she enjoys owning the finished project as much as I enjoyed working on it.
Our annual summer cookout will be planned shortly, you will be notified of the date. Please make an honest effort to join us, it’s all part of our GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION.
Respectfully submitted,
EVELYN A. MAJERCIK
THE SLOVENIAN AMERICAN NATIONAL ART GUILD
PRESENTS A NEW PUBLICATION: “Splasher Cloths, Traditional Slovenian Stitchery”
“SPLASHER CLOTHS:	TRADITIONAL
SLOVENIAN STITCHERY”
• Introduction to Slovenian art and culture
• Significance of splasher cloths as a folk tradition
• Historical perspective
• Balanced symposium project
• Resource tool, to be passed from generation to generation
• Pictures, proverb translations, region map of Slovenia
Available for $6.50 each plus $1.50 postage and handling. Send to:
Slovenian American National Art Guild:
31827 Chardon Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Under this title, a new booklet has been published by the Slovenian American Art Guild of Ohio. A wealth of information is included on the art-form of splasher stitchery, pictures of splasher cloths are shown and historical facts on the country of ancestry, regional maps and the meaning of this art form to the culture of the nation.
Everyone interested in Slovenian heritage should be interested in having this booklet, not only for its a beautiful and artistic presentation but reading it is a prideful and fulfilling experience.
From the simple, honest and loving womenfolk of our Slovenian nationality has come recognition of a special kind of home-art that they did to enhance their homes.
Faithful reproductions of splasher cloths are also available from the Art Guild, for embroidery or painting, that is, you can obtain these miniature splasher cloths in linen or quality paper.
The Slovenian Art Guild is to be complimented on the Splasher Clothes project which adds new dimension to our cultural history, one that every woman can understand and appreciate.
Editor
NO. 79, ENUMCLAW, WA
It’s anniversary time, 50 years since our group was chartered and we are so fortunate to have two of the original members still active today, our President, Mary Mihelich and Anna Faulk. Other originals were Mary Polaynar, Josephine Richter, Josephine Turlip, Joan and Mary Umek and my mother, Ivana Chacata. We hope to celebrate this occasion along with our Mother’s Day dinner, a potluck on May 18th at the home of Dorothy Sleigh. All members are urged to make this a day to celebrate — be sure to attend.
To our friends in other parts of the country we want to tell you we are on the route to Expo ’86 which is being held in Vancouver, Canada. We would sure like to have you stop by and meet us on your way up there. Call Anna Mae Anderson at 206 — 825-2729. Dorothy Sleigh at 206 — 825-5269 or myself at 206 — 833-2944. Regards to all from the Evergreen State.
MARY BRATOVICH
NO. 85, DE PUE, IL
SPLASHERS’ ORDER BLANK
Cloth stamped and ready for embroidering - framing size 16 x 20"
A- S? & Kres' u itrric HRAST SE STRESE, HRIB SE 2# 4 Krit,»Ml« W ZGANE, VSE NA SVET SE Vttncivf,iricTfscnl SPREMENI. ZVEST V^^Zvrst prijele!! po ostane PRIJATELJ PA OSTANI, M * TukaJKvvc&voiti ^ TUKAJ IN V VEČNOSTI. # The oak shakes, the hill moves, .• \Everything on earth chagnes. Yr; iV: :%f % Only a faithful friend remains the same, Here and in eternity.	7.50	
B. % (S LJUBI MOŽ OSTANI DOMA. H ITTnLrwT^ SICER POIŠČEM DRUGEGA! Loving husband stay home, or else 1 will find another. n. .	7.50	
c- NAJ večja sreča za moža f jVl‘r* £ JE 2ena k| dobro kuhat A 2tmo5£ i. ZNA. ft , W 1 1 ' ' whose wife knows how to cook well.	7.50	
D. ^SONCENE SIJE TAKO LEPO /5 *^1 KAKOR MAMICE OKO. sun ^oes 001 s^'ne as bright as the light in a mother’s eye.	7.50	
SET OF 4 DIFFERENT CLOTH SPLASHER SAMPLERS: 4/S25.00		
Happy Mother’s Day to all Mothers, and to our deceased mothers and members. May they rest in peace.
Branch 89 of Oglesby has decided (Continued on page 33)
SENDCHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO: SANAG, Heritage Stitchery/Design 31827 Chardon Rd.,
Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
TOTAL AMOUNT FOR ITEMS ORDERED
POSTAGE AND HANDLING CHARGE
TOTAL AMOUNT OF ORDER
ADDRESS
CITY________________________________STATE______________________________ZIP_____________________________
Her message is love!
SWV Moth els - Women of the QJecrt
Branch 2, Chicago, Illinois
^Fiances ČMolison
Branch Two’s “Mother of the Year” for 1986 is Frances Morison. She has been an outstanding branch president during the past four years, and we are very, very proud of her. She and her family have resided in the Chicago area since 1952. She did not discover S.W.U. and St. Stephen’s Church until Pope John Paul’s 1979 Chicago visit. While awaiting the arrival of the pontiff at Holy Name Cathedral she had the occasion to meet Mary Muller, Nat’l Pres, and members, Ann Mladic,
V
Branch 1, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
atlicia <_J?. CUlaynal
She’s an organizer and loves dealing with people! It’s obvious from the list of credits Patricia A. Uraynar possesses! And, what a smile! She’s quite a happy person and carries her ambitious spirit into all she does.
Br. 1 in Sheboygan has chosen their most energetic member as Woman of the Year. Mrs. Uraynar is currently serving in public office as Sheboygan County Clerk after having a long history as Deputy City Clerk and working in the City Clerk’s office a total of 22 years. She is also the Scholarship Committee Chairman for Wisconsin County Clerk’s Association; Past Treasurer of SS. Cyril & Methodius Christian Women’s Society; Past President, Secretary, Treasurer of City Employees Organization, Past Secretary of Bowling League; Member of church choir; KSKJ Society; Sloga; Christian Women’s Society; Izaak Walton League; Wisconsin Democratic Party; Wisconsin County Clerk’s Association.
Mrs. Uraynar has a great association with the members of Br.
mm
and Lil Seibert. Mary Muller invited her to attend a S.W.U. meeting at St. Stephen’s, and soon she was an active member. What a gift and treasure she has proven to be for us! During the past four years, Fran, as she likes to be called, has brought a new vitality and enthusiasm to our branch.
She is a very creative person who likes to try new things. To relax, she gardens, tries new recipes, collects bird figurines and befriends live ones. She is characterized by a quiet manner, a friendliness that is contagious, and a deep biding respect
Branch 3, Pueblo, Colorado
Qlose Qo’isic h (U’isick
Our Rose Ursick was selected as Member of the Year by our branch. She is always ready and willing to give a helping hand whenever needed and attends meetings regularly. She donates many prizes to our Br. 3.
She is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Gorsich, both of whom are deceased. Her father was owner of the Gorsich Mercantile Meats and Groceries for many years. She was born in Pueblo on September 10, 1908 and joined Br. 3 on March 16, 1933. She is a member 53 years!
She married Louis Ursick on June 10, 1931. This couple sponsored 19 children as godparents.
Rose’s two sisters, now both deceased, Pauline Gorsich and Mary Zupančič were members as are three of Rose’s sisters-in-law. Rose was doing double duty by taking care of the family of 7 and housework. She enjoyed a beautiful flower garden and did fancy crocheting, embroidery, tatting, cooking and baking.
Continue on page 29
Rose and Louis Ursick
Branch 5, Indianapolis, Indiana
31	ose <JJvancic
Rose (Vericek) Ivancic, our president, was born in Indianapolis on August 4, 1909. She had four sisters and one brother. Schools days were spent in Morgantown, Indiana and Holy Trinity where she still resides. Malleable Steel Casting Co. was her first start in the working world, but later, she went to L.S. Ayers Dept. Store as a seamstress and stayed for 15 years.
Rose and Joe were married on May 8, 1936 and will celebrate their 50th Anniversary this year. Josephine Sheehan, her daughter, has six children and there are eight great grandchildren to occupy their time.
In previous years, Rose bowled in KSKJ league but now is in a senior league.
They have a very productive garden and spend a lot of time tending it. Rose is one of the several women who bake poticas every week for the church.
Happy Mother’s Day, Rose!
J.T.
Branch 12, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
3Lty JCiel
Mary Kiel is a lifelong resident of Milwaukee. She was employed at Perfex Corp. for many years. She later worked for Gimbels-Schusters Dept. Store where she was a supervisor for 20 years.
Mary has been married to Edward Kiel and last year they celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary with a beautiful mass and reception. They are seasoned travelers having been to Europe four times, Hawaii twice and various other places - almost every state in the U.S., too!
Mary has two sisters, Frieda
Branch 13, San Francisco, California
<JhInna $. ^Ve’icelli
Ann was born in San Francisco in 1910 after her parents came here from Slovi nia. She is the youngest of five children, two of her brothers deceased.
She has a brother, Rudy Stariha and a sister, Marie Heath, who was named Mother of the Year by Br. 13 two years ago. Ann’s mother was also a member and her Aunt Mary was president of the branch for some time.
Anna is a widow 18 years. She was married to Joseph Vercelli in the Slovenian Church, the Church of the Nativity in 1928. They were married 40 years when God called him. They reared two children, Donald and Jo Anne (Maniscalco). Jo Anne is' a‘ member of Br. 13, too. There are five grandchildren and two great grandchildren in the family.
Ann enjoys several hobbies, among them baking, crafts, crocheting and taking long walks. She especially likes to bake cookies and brings them to almost every meeting.
“I feel very honored to have been selected as Mother of the Year of Br. 13!” says Anna. And we say, Ann you well deserve it! God bless you!
Branch 14, Euclid, Ohio
<Jllice S. i Kuha'i
Woman of the Year, Alice Kuhar, has the pride of her Slovenian heritage instilled from her earliest years by her parents, Florjan and Anna Kuhar, now both deceased, who were both immigrants from Kamnik, Slovenia. Her parents felt that many of the old country traditions would serve to provide stability in the growth of their children who were taught the Slovenian language from infancy. The family was a large one with seven children: Pete, Frank, Ann (Sraj), Fred, Mary (deceased), and Helen (Morel) with Alice being the youngest of this closely knit family.
During her sophomore year in high school, she was encouraged to develop an interest in radio communications and upon enrolling in radio courses, was assigned as student announcer at the Cleveland Board of Education radio station WBOE. After graduation Alice was employed by WBOE as a radio technician and soon passed the Radiotelephone Operators test becoming one of the first women radio engineers in the country.
As the Cleveland schools developed other areas of communication, Alice was assigned also as Television Production Assistant for an educational TV program and from this soundtrack she produced a radio program aired on local stations.
In 1969 Alice was retained as Continue on page 29
Alice Kuhar and her mother
Branch 16, South Chicago, Illinois
<~Jlnn l Ksiazek
The honored title of Mother-of-the Year for 1986 was bestowed on Anne Ksiazek, maiden name Pakowski, at the February meeting. Anne was born in Chicago, Illinois on June 29, 1927 and resides at 9551 Avenue N. She married Thomas Ksiazek on June 4, 1949 and they had 6 children, Kathy, Michael, Roseann, Mary Ellen, Thomas and Wendy. Anne has been a widow since 1976. She is the proud grandmother of 8 grandchildren who bring much happiness into her life.
Anne has been a homemaker all of her married lfie, but now with all her family grown, she finds time to care for a disabled lady. This is typical of Anne - to know Anne is to love Anne for hers is a personality of caring for others, unselfishness, patience, loyalty and thoughtfulness. It is a pleasure to have her for a friend, and we are so lucky to have her for a member at Branch No. 16.
Although Anne has been a widow for several years, she has encouraged and assisted her 3 youngest children to complete their college educations;. Roseann graduated from Chicago State with a major in History, Thomas graduated from DeVry Institute of Technology and Wendy graduated in April from Robert Morris College completing her Secretarial Co-op Training.
Anne joined Branch No. 16 in March of 1973 and has been a very active member, attending meetings
Branch 17, West Allis, Wisconsin
j^lnn -C. Qaspe\ic
Ann is the proverbial “sunshine girl”! One cannot be in the “dumps” when Ann is around, for she always has a smiling face and is ready to chase anyone’s blues away with her cheerful smile and pleasant laugh.
She is the mother of five children, Richard, Delores, Michael, Thomas and Kenneth and has 10 grandchildren - all granddaughters! And, all members of Br. 17!
She and her husband, Frank have been married since 1940 and no one would believe they are so close to a 50th Anniversary!
Ann worked at West Allis Memorial Hospital for 20 years in the Dietary Dept. She is one of the first to volunteer her services for any fraternal function, be it in the form of labor, in baking one of her many specialties, or taking part in some other way.
At home she is never idle, she loves to crochet for the granddaughters and is very happy in having the children and family come together.
She is a member for 26 years and is a regular at our meetings. All the members join me in wishing Ann the best in life and God’s biggest blessing for our happy Ann!
Marion Marolt
Branch 19, Eveleth, Minnesota
ČMaii/
The recent Minnesota Zveza Dav held in Eveleth in September, 1985 brought together many members and
friends from around the Iron Range. One of the highlights of the day was the banquet at which toastmistress was our Mother of the Year, Mary Intihar. Mary is a very capable and charming person who helped coordinate the arrangements and served on the committee. She is a good organizer for other events as well. She will be honored this year as a 50 year member of Zveza, enrolled at girlhopd when her mother was an active member.
Mary was born in Eveleth and received her education there. She worked as a secretary and bookkeeper for 23 years. For 15 years she was with the State of Minnesota administration as a Regional Director for a 9 county area and thereby, was active in many communities. She is retired from this work but is still active with the Eveleth Senior Citizens, the VFW, Lady Foresters, the KSKJ and Resurrection Church and parish.
She has a son, Jim Pogorelc, who lives with his family in Queensland, Australia and a daughter, Elizabeth Koreltz who resides in St. Paul. A step-son, Jim Intihar lives in Duluth. Both Jims are teachers.
Mary was widowed twice and now takes pleasure in her gardening, playing bridge, traveling and knitting. She participates fully in everything she does and generously drives more members with her to the branch meetings, chauffeuring those who are unable to walk or have no transportation.
To our lovely lady, mother and friend, best wishes!
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Branch 20, Joliet, Illinois
^M.a’iy Anzelc
Our Woman of the Year for 1986 is Mary Anzelc. Mary has been a member for 8 years and at present holds the office of Trustee. She is the kind of member who is always available for any project we may undertake. She, along with her husband John, have been involved in all our Heritage Day celebrations, Grape Festival Dances, Restoration Dinner-dance for the Statue of Liberty Fund and do a lot of behind-the-scenes work at the meetings and the Heritage Museum. They ' have spent the last 10 years working at “Jubilation” an annual fund-raiser which benefits both Catholic High Schools in the area.
Their family circle includes three sons; Raymond, John Jr. (Linda) and Michael and two daughters, Mary Ellen and Janet Anzelc Burke, two grandchildren, Erin and Michael Burke. Their children live in various parts of the country which makes vacation time an interesting choice. Raymond is in Los Angeles, California, John and Linda are in Jakarta, Indonesia, (from where John and Mary have just returned after a two month visit), Michael is in Chicago, Mary Ellen is in Ogunquit, Maine, and Janet and the grandchildren are in Joliet. She and John have also made a trip to Zvirče in Slovenia, the birthplace of her parents, Alex and Jenni Plut.
Mary belongs to the Altar and Rosary Society and the Rosarian Club of St. Joseph’s Church, and the St. Francis Society KSKJ. She is most generous with her time to each of the organizations to which she belongs. She enjoys gardening and
The Bradley branch of S.W.U. is small but, oh, so active! Every meeting brings out the full membership, at least they try to do this. Ann La Montagne is one of those faithful few who enjoy being together and spending the time renewing their affection...for they all are very good friends.
Ann was chosen ths year for many reasons. She is an example to all the others for her steadfast devotion to the group - so that no matter how she feels - sometimes she’s not up to par -she is sure to be there. They can always count on Ann. She has a 52 year membership to boast! She’s served in various capacities and right now is a trustee.
Ann enjoys being with her two little great grandsons. She and her husband, Bernard, had one son, Bernard Jr. who is the father of their two grandchildren, one of whom is studying to be doctor.
Members of her family who are enrolled are a sister, a sister-in-law, and in the past, her late mother, sister and niece were all members.
She has now retired after 27 years of employement at Kroehler Mfg. Co.
We wish her lots of good health in the years to come and that her everpresent smile and beautiful presence will be with us all the time!
Mary was born in Ely, MN at the “26” Location. The family moved to Gilbert, MN when she was four years old. She graduated from the Gilbert High School and then attended the Winona Teachers College. She accepted a teaching position in the Ely Public School System.
In 1929, she married Joseph Palcher, a local business man. She was married for thirteen years when her husband passed away. Mary worked in his clothing store for thirteen years alone while rearing two children, Mary Joan and Joseph Jr. She gave up the Men’s Clothing Store and moved to the “Town and Country” shop on Chapman Street. After seventeen years, she retired.
In 1933, she became the President of the Ely Council of Catholic Women. Became active in the Chamber of Commerce and became its first Woman President. She is a Charter Member of the Women of the Moose and is a College of Regents member, also, a past president of the Ely Business and Professional Women’s Club.
She is one of the originators of the Blood Pressure Unit and also “Meals On Wheels” program.
At the present time, she is a Director of the Senior Citizens Center and a Director of the Housing Urban Development Program and President of the local Lodge No. 120 of the A.F.U.
All the best, Mary!
Reporter
Branch 22, Bradley, Illinois	Branch	23,	Ely, Minnesota
•Jinna -Ca J\lor\tagne	2<. ^Palche’i
Branch 25, Cleveland, Ohio
<Jlia’iy $ean S'u’ik
Mary Jean was born close to St. Vitus Church where she still resides. Her maiden name was Kovacic.
As she grew up, she met a nice man, named Joseph Turk. Their happy day was Nov. 4, 1936. A daughter was born into their happiness. They christened her, Mary Jane.
Mary Jean and Joseph celebrated 35th wedding anniversary in 1970 and then in 1971 Joseph was called to the Lord above.
Mary Jean’s energy was now even more concentrated on her job at Eaton Mfg., where she has worked
27	years. Daughter Mary Jane is married to James Timko and they have three beautiful daughters, Jan, Jackie and Peggy. Her daughter, son-in-law, the three granddaughters were and still are pride and joy of Mary Jean.
Mary Jean Turk is the kind of a lady you are happy to know. You never have to tell her or ask her to help you or for that matter anybody. She is there.
Every morning you see her at mass. She also stops almost daily at the parish house to help. The elderly in the parish are also on her helping list.
Mary Jean is a long-time member of our Branch No. 25, as was her mother.
Our branch would be simply lost without her constant help. She was selected as a delegate to the last convention of SWU Chisholm, and is always prepared to attend Combined Branches meetings.
Mary Jean, you are very generous in so many ways to so many of us and a good friend to all of us who know you. Thank you, Mary Jean Turk!
Besides belong to SWU No. 25, Mary Jean is a member of St. Vitus Altar Society, St. Vitus Mothers Club, KSKJ No. 255, AMLA No. 17, Progressive No. 2 and St. Clair Avenue Pensioners.
Congratulations, Mary Jean Turk and God walk with you always!
Cirila Kermavner
Branch 28, Calumet, Michigan
-T’lacy <J\i. Shucel
We’d like you to know Tracy Strucel who is a long-standing member of Br. 28, 33 years, and always has been active with the branch. She helps them on committees and at the meetings.
Tracy is a widow for the last 10 years and the mother of two, Michael and Susan. She was a service mother with Michael in the US Army for four years.
She enjoys golfing, bowling, knitting and sewing and for the past 35 years has been a member of the church choir. She earned a high school diploma and worked most of her life but is now retired.
Many good wishes from her sister-members in Calumet and all through the SWU who say: Happy Mother’s Day!
Branch 32, Euclid, Ohio
^Vicky Molny
Our Chosen Mother for this year is Augustine (Vicky) Holny, maiden name, Dragozet.
She is the Mother of 4 Children, Albert, Janice Gallion, Virginia O’Reilly, and Donald. She has 12 grandchildren and a great granddaughter, Karie Ann Kellie.
She has just recently retired from Euclid General Hospital, and is enjoying her retirement very much.
Her hobbies are many and her very special one is a Music Box Collection which exceeds over 200 pieces. She enjoys baking, bowling and knitting also has an expensive recipe collection.
She was chosen because of her Continue
Emily and John Skull
Branch 33, Duluth, Minnesota
čmily 31. Skull
Our Mother of the Year for Branch 33, Duluth, MN, is Emily R. Skull (DeBeltz). She was born April 16, 1923 in Ely, MN and graduated from High School there. In the past she was employed by U.S. Steel and Chun King.
Emily was married to John Skull Nov. 21, 1942 and lives at 409 West Gary Street, Duluth, where they are members of St. Elizabeth Parish.
Her children are John of Racine, WI, and Susan and Gerald of Duluth. She has 4 grandsons and one granddaughter.
Emily has been a member of Branch 33 for 40 years. She has been Auditor and now, as for the past three years, is serving as President. She has also headed or worked on various committees whenever or wherever needed. She has arranged bus trips for shopping or trips to Canada.
Emily is the youngest of 13 children (5 still living). Her parents immigrated form Slovenia. In 1984 Emily, her husband John, his brother Bill and wife Dodie, traveled to Slovenia where she had a chance to meet her Aunt who lives at Ig.
There is no problem with “Generation Gap” as far as Emily is concerned. She and her husband share their home with daughter, Susan, and grandson, Chris. They all are included as “members of the group” whether it be a bus shopping trip, a trip to Canada, swimming, or whatever. Emily always has a good time and goes out of her way to see that others do, too.
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Branch 35, Aurora, Minnesota
(juJiun < M a’lie -Culhe’i
Branch No. 35, Aurora, Minn, selects their Mother of the Year according to age, starting with the oldest member. This year we will honor Gudrun Kulaszewicz Luther. “Gudy” as she is called by all her family and friends, has been a very loyal and supportive member of our branch. In her earlier years, she attended our meetings, faithfully paid her dues, took an active part in our functions and donated whenever asked.
She was born August 26, 1906 in Virginia, Minn. When Gudy was 15, her mother died in a fire and she was
Branch 34, Soudan, Minnesota
ine jHustonen
Having known our Mother of the Year, Adeline Mustonen, for my entire life, brings to mind many memorable events. Adeline lived just a short distance from our house in Soudan and therefore I can speak of her and her entire family with knowledge and affection. Despite a most serious accident that occurred about a year before her marriage, leaving her in much pain all of her life, Adeline has been a cheerful and devoted mother of three children and two grandchildren and an active member in her church and the community.
Whenever there is a party, be it for S.W.U., Catholic Council, church or a friend, Adeline readily volunteers to decorate the tables and needless to say, it’s done with artistic perfection. We do appreciate your talents, Adeline! Born in Soudan, Minnesota on March 31, 1932, Adeline Monica was the 9th child of Jacob and Angela Pavlich. She has nine sisters and one brother, five of whom are members enrolled in Branch 34 as are her two grandchildren. In 1950 Adeline graduated from Tower-Soudan High School with honors and secured employment in Duluth as a steno-clerk for the Oliver Iron Mining Division, U.S. Steel Corporation. She attributed her excellent business course background to her high school business teacher, Frances Erchul Bizal, now residing in Chisholm and also a member of S.W.U.-Br. 38. On May 1, 1954
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responsible in helping her father raise the three younger children. In 1925, she was married to her first husband, Phillip Kulaszewicz of Biwabik, Minn. They had five children-Phyllis (Robert) Turk, Dolores Bartol, Aurora; Eugene (Carol), Hoyt Lakes; Joel (Sandy), Cloquet; and Sally (Ross), Florida. Her husband died on November 12, 1964. Of this marriage, they had 16 grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren.
On July 31, 1973, she married Robert Luther of Hoyt Lakes, a widower with seven children. Gudy helped raise the three younger children. This marriage added 21 more grandchildren.
Gudy was active in our community as a volunteer, chaperoning Girl Scouts to various activities and providing transportation to people who didn’t drive. At present, she is a member of the V.F.W. and Aurora Moose Club. Her hobbies are
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Branch 39, Biwabik, Minnesota
cKatheline Steblay
Being a good friend entails taking time to spend with people and being kind to your neighbors - to be good and gracious when misfortune falls and when you are needed. Katherine Steblay seems to be this kind of friend. From her resume'we read how she is willing and helpful to assist at funerals and to help the sick. She is there when they pray the rosary for deceased members and is pallbearer for many funerals. You can count on Katherine to say yes, even when she’s busy, if asked to help out with the Senior Citizens, the Slovenian Ladies Catholic Council and at holiday functions when extra help is always needed. A very special friend to her is a neighborhood retarded child.
Katherine also volunteers her time at the Giant’s Ridge Ski Area in Biwabik, one of the best ski resorts in the area. This is a busy place all winter and brings many people to Biwabik from all over the midwest.
Katherine has always been a generous and hospitable mother and her home is the focal point for all family gatherings. Her son, Ronald, and three grandchildren fill the place with their happy presence...which Katherine loves so much. She has been a widow 12 years but keeps herself happy and busy with gardening, fishing, camping and is an avid sports fan, not only for skiing. She has a special interest in the music of famous “big bands” and loves to hear this sound on radio or records.
Our warmest wishes and hopes for a very Happy Mother’s Day!
Adeline and Ernest Mustonen
/
Agnes Tomazin, left, with Pete Celik and Lorrie Doc
Branch 40, Lorain, Ohio
<_Agnes 3'omazin
Branch 41, Cleveland, Ohio
Cecelia 31. Wolf
Cecelia Wolf (right, standing) with members of her branch: Justine Prhne, secretary (right, seated) Angela Kapel (standing) and Angela Bohnic (seated), both 50 year members.
Many congratulations to our “Mother of the Year”, president Agnes Tomazin!
A member since 1976 she became president after the resignation of our beloved, long-time president, the late Albina Uehlein; and has since been elected.
Agnes is a friendly and a reliable person - no job is too small and no job too big and all is done with a big smile.
Agnes was born in Lorain, on December 28, 1919 to the family of Joseph and Anna Resek - one of six girls. She went to St. Cyril and Methodius School; later they left Lorain and went to Sullivan, Ohio. She attended the schools there and graduated from Sullivan High School. Later she joined the “Waves” as a Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class and was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida.
On August 25,	1951, Agnes
married Michael Tomazin - family friendship goes back many years -Mr. Tomazin was best man at Mr. and Mrs. Resek’s wedding.
To this marriage were born three children; Francie Ann, Michael Joseph, Sylvia Marie - now there are grandchildren; Amber Morgan and George Geoffery.
The family home is at 2917 Toledo Ave. Mike is now retired from the U.S. Navy as a Chief Petty Officer in Ordinance, and they spend their time
Chosen as Women of the Year of No. 41 S.W.U. is a wonderful person we all love very much-Cecelia Wolf! A fifty year member she has been instrumental in holding our Br. 41 together. She has worked heart and soul to keep it alive in spite of dwindling attendance. She and her sister call and pick up members on meeting days.
How does one put into words what a friendship with this dear person means? She is trustworthy, always ready to listen to other’s problems. She is serene-looking ever on the bright side and she is loyal to her beliefs.
Cecelia M. Wolf (nee Tomaric) was born in Cleveland April 21, 1908. When her schooling was completed she went to work as an office manager. After her father died in 1927 leaving her mother with 6 children, Cecelia assumed basic family responsibility which held the family together. In 1950 Cecelia married Leo Wolf. After 20 yars of happy marriage her husband passed away. She lives at 1799 Skyline Dr. Richmond Hgts., Ohio and looks after ber brother, Tony Tomaric, and widowed sister, Steffie Zorman, who live with her.
Her activities are phenomenal! She is a member of Perpetua Guild of St. Felicitas Church; is our very knowledgeable recording secretary of No. 41 S.W.U. since 1976; is an active 50 year member of Jadran
Singing Society; a member of Waterloo Pensioners where she is program chairman and is on the auditing committee.
She is on the Slovene Home for Aged Board of Directors where she also worked as Patient Coordinator for 10 years and is on the fund raising committee. She volunteers as Public Assistance coordinator at the Home.
As a member of the Board of Directors of the Slovenian Workmens Home (Waterloo Rd.) she has been recording secretary since 1971 and has served as Sec’y-Treas. of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Waterloo Home.
She is Past National President of Progressive Slovene Women of America and has been extremely active.	At	Circle No.	1 she	was
President for 10 years.
She	is	a member	of Ladies
Auxiliary of SNPJ Farm and works at all their affairs.
She	is	a member of	the
Democratic Club.
For	25	years she	has	been
recording secretary of Woodman of the World No. 6110 where she had also served as Sec’y-Treas.
From 1935 she has been a member and was Drill Team Captain of the W.O.W. original “VOGUETTES” Drill Team who still meet after 50 years!
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Branch 42, Maple Hgts., Ohio
Birina ^Rezin
Branch 42 - Maple Heights is pleased to honor Anna Rezin as our 1986 Mother of the Year. She has actively participated in our social events and attended all meetings (when weather and health permitted). She was married to Andrew Rezin and had three children, Ann, John and Andrew, Jr. (all predeceased). Her pride and joy are her five grandchildren and seventeen grandchildren.
Originally from Newburgh, the Rezins moved to Maple Heights in 1937. She and her husband were charter members of the Maple Heights Slovenian National Home and together they worked, along with many friends, to establish the membership of the Home. They held picnics and parties as fund-raisers and even had two weddings at their home prior to the SNH being finally constructed. In 1970, Anna and Andy Rezin were jointly chosen Man and Woman of the Year by the Maple Heights SNH for their continual dedication to Slovenian culture. 1977 brought another honor to Anna in being selected as the Maple Heights Slovene of the Year and was lauded for her many years of volunteer work at the home as well as being instrumental in organizing the Cooking Club. She was the third member of her family to hold the honor of Slovene of the Year which was previously given to her husband and then to her son, Andrew, Jr.
She is a member of AMLA, SNPJ, Southeast Suburban Auxiliary of the Catholic War Veterans No. 1812,
Branch 43, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Sandy
Sck acktschneiclel
Br. 43 has a nice group of friendly members who enjoy their get-togethers monthly and they have chosen their good member, Sandy Schachtschneider to carry the banner for Motherhood this year. She has three children, Karin Krzysiak Klaus, Gregory Krzysiak and T/Sgt. Yvonne Krzysiak and five grandchildren, all making her life worthwhile and happy. She was widowed twice and has worked through her entire lifetime. After graduation from high school she worked as a bookkeeper in some banks and did insurance work. At present she does volunteer work for four different agencies.
Among her prized possessions are a first place trophy for golf and seven first place trophies for bowling which is her favorite sport. She says she likes to do some “gambling” too!
Sandy is an example to all with her sweet nature and loyalty for which members wish to extend compliments and deep affection.
' *
-■ + Branch 47, Garfield Hgls., Ohio
Mateja
We have chosen Ann Mareda as our Mother of the Year. Ann has been a member of our branch for 51 years. Our branch’s very first meeting when organized June 17, 1931 was held in her mom’s home wilh 104 members present. That year a membership drive was held and Br.
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Branch SO, Cleveland, Ohio
jCo^elta ^flali se
As our Mother of the Year we are honoring a loyal and deserving member, Loretta Hlabse. She is the kind of person that every organization is proud to have and she does belong to many. Yes, Loretta is a hustler and with her kind and loving smile, she is always willing, available and ready to help wherever there is work to be done, especially in the kitchen, making coffee, cutting pastry, washing dishes and setting tables! She is a member of Br. 50 for 6 years.
Loretta was born on 62nd off St. Clair area of Cleveland. Her parents were Ernest and Jennie Hodnik; she was the 2nd child from a family of 4 daughters. She went to St. Paul’s grade school and Glenville High. Her first job was at the Richmond Brothers Clothes, until 1938 when she married Joseph Hlabse. Their marriage took place at St. Paul’s Church in Euclid, Ohio. After they married they moved to Detroit, Michigan as Joe’s job as a printer was there. In 1942 they moved back to Cleveland where her husband worked for the Cleveland Press.
In 1981 Loretta became a widow. Of their marriage they had one daughter, Shirley Ann Kidd, and 2 sons, Joseph and James. She also has three granddaughters - Angela, age 18; Dawn, age 16;and Jennifer also 16. Later, Loretta worked at the Ohio Bell Telephone Company from where she retired after 15 years of employment. Besides all this she is an excellent cook and a real homemaker, did a lot of knitting and
Carmella Bonazza with grandson, Rocco Benedict
Branch 52, Kitzville, Minnesota
Carmella ^eanetle ^Bonazza
Carmella Bonazza was picked this year from many members who are all deserving mothers. So, it is a great pleasure to be able to write about mothers who are all honored this month.
Carmella Bonazza has worked for years far from home but whenever possible has made it back to visit us and made us always feel welcome at her home. She has a very generous heart.
Her husband, Ben and son, Ben, Jr. make her very proud. She is also grandmother of three and great grandmother of one. She takes care of her widowed father. Her sister, Genevieve Zidarich, is also very active and loyal. At one time her mother, Grace, who has gone to her eternal rest, was an active member. Carmella is willing to do her share in every way that is good for the lodge, such as donations, cooking, baking whatever else she is asked to do. She always tries her best.
Carmella, we know that you will uphold the title of Mother of the Year and we hope and pray that you _will stay with us all. May God ‘bless you.
Gertrude Kochevar Branch 54, Warren, Ohio
ilMalgaiet iRachel
Our Mother of the Year is Margaret Racher, a long-standing good member of our branch. She always helps out when she can and comes regularly to our meetings. She
has a lovely home and keeps it immaculately clean and is a wonderful baker and cook. She raised two daughters, Margaret Zuga and Agnes Franko, and they have followed in her footsteps as good Slovenian homemakers. She always has beautiful flowers around her home and does this work all herself.
She has six grandchildren, all educated with degrees and several with Masters degrees. They always come to grandma’s when they are in town.
She and her husband, my uncle Joe, were married 60 years and we partied for their 50th, Golden and the “60th” before he passed away.
We feel she is most deserving to be our Mother of the Year and we congratulate her on this honor.
Joanne Ponikvar Secretary
Branch 55, Girard, Ohio
Qala /Jhoss
“Woman of the Year” is the title bestowed on member, Gala Jhoss who is one of our most beloved members. She always helps us whenever we have a card party or any of the other doings and has been with the branch “thru thick and thin!” For 46 years, Gala has been this kind of member and we appreciate it very much!
She was born in Arkansas on Dec. 22, 1908 and was married in 1930. She is a widow, however, already 28 years. She has owned a restaurant and also worked as a nurse’s aid for many years.
She belongs to the Red Cross, Altar and Rosary Society, K.C. Auxiliary, Mt. Carmel Society and the Eagles Auxiliary, so she has many social and community activities. She enjoys playing Duplicate Bridge with her many friends.
A hearty wish and congratulations!
Branch 56, Hibbing, Minnesota
Sophie Qwitnakel
We think our Mother of the Year, Sophie Garmaker takes the first place in number of great grandchildren among our 1986 SWU Mothers honored in this issue. She has 30 of them and 32 grandchildren! This family is not only large but active in all the communities in which they reside.
Sophie herself is an excellent cook and baker and is especially known
for her delicious raised donuts (krofe) baking. She plays the piano, too, and entertains the family vivaciously.
She has eight children, Martin, Clarence, Richard who was a professional basketball player in the 40’s for the Minneapolis Lakers and New York Knickerbockers, also twins, Jean and Joan, Margaret, Thomas and Kenneth who is deceased. She is a widow but keeps busy with her VFW, Sacred Heart, Moose, KSKJ and Slovenian Women’s Union groups. Her membership with us is 51 dedicated years!
To this very nice person whom all the members love and admire, heartiest wishes and prayers for God’s many blessings.
Branch 57, Niles, Ohio
1Jlances lHachel
Another of our loyal and devoted members is Frances Racher who was chosen to be Mother of the Year for her many nice qualities. She is a 42 year member, has always been a ready and willing helper and brings much happiness to the group. She makes all the favors for social events and door prizes for the clubs she belongs to.
Her employment as a clerk and buyer for ladies dresses brought her in contact with many people whom she enjoys very much. She has now retired and spends her time with creative craft making and traveling. She has a daughter, Denise in Denver, Colorado, so Frances enjoys visiting her and her grandchild. Son, John, the father of four children lives in Akron so Frances sees them regularly.
Frances, we salute you and wish you all of God’s blessings!
F
in every thing my children do so with
6	of them it’s a daily affair! Being involved is actually Rose Marie’s pleasure; it makes life exciting for her and her husband, Robert. They will be celebrating their 25th Wedding Anniversary on July 1st this year.
Another thing they like to do together is promote button box playing. Bob, Sr. and Bob, Jr. both play the accordians and attend many of the dances and concerts around their town.
Rose Marie is a fun-loving, vivacious lady, who is a friend to everyone she meets. We hope this year’s Mother’s Day will be really special for her and her family and that there’ll be many more to come!
by helping out at their functions and attending meetings, but she is an officer and records their minutes.
She enjoys reading and playing cards and a weekly game of Bingo!
Molly is the mother of two sons, Robert and Frank and grandmother for 3 with 2 great grandchildren. She is a widow for the past 8 years. She "comes from Cleveland (Collinwood) but has lived in Painesville for a long time where she established her home. Her maiden name was Ulle.
It’s a pleasure to extend our best wishes to Molly and many, many more years of good health and happiness to her!
Branch 71, Strabane, Pennsylvania
ose ^Ma’iie JLawlence
Having six children, ages 12 to 24, is enough to keep a mother busy each and every day. So, it’s no wonder that our Mother of the Year, Rose Marie Lawrence, says: I participate
IT’lcuices Caztn
Homemaking is truly Fran Cazin’s strongest interest. She’s proficient in preserving food, tho she doesn’t garden as she used to - but still, canning and freezing take up a lot of her time as do the domestic arts: cooking, baking etc. She also spends time crocheting, tatting, knitting and sewing. She made a beautiful afghan which she donated last year as one of the prizes for the Branch. As a 36 year member, she has had many opportunities to show her generosity and she always does. In fact, she is more active now than ever with free time available since retirement from tavern business. Even after selling the well-known tavern she and her husband, Frank operated for 20 years on Green Road, (called Gorisek’s at one time), she still helped out there when needed.
So, Frances utilizes her time well
Branch 67, Bessemer, Pennsylvania
UHaly Slavich
A young 90 years! This is our chosen Mother of the Year from Bessemer, a mother of seven and grandmother of 25 - great grandmother of 27 children! Her husband lived to join her in their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 1963 but she has been a widow for 23 years.
Mary is proud of her home and has devoted her life to it and her children. She enjoys the summer growing season when she can work in her garden.
Mary was born at Rijeka, Yugoslavia on December 10, 1896. She came to America in 1913 and later in the same year married her husband, John. Her children are Rudy, Vladimir, Mildred, Edward (deceased), Mary, Dorothy and Lillian.
She has been a member for 48 years and sets an example to her sister members for love and affection shown to all. We love her and salute her as our Mother of the Year!
Branch 68, Fairport Harbor, Ohio
ČMolly £F. (tfuzna
Molly is Mother of the Year in a branch that has many enjoyable social events. The ladies participate
in their community affairs, in the	-SB
fraternal life with other
organizations and have a very	.•••■'	/JDh
friendly circle. Molly is a 50 year •	'	V	' jJPWf
member, one of many of our seniors .**	•	\	+	>	jKjBWBI
who has lots of pep and energy, lots f of interest in what is going on around
Branch 73, Warrensville Hgts., Ohio
Branch 77, N.S. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Elizabeth Conway
Along with her mother, Anna Boskovic, our Mother of the Year, Elizabeth Conway, helped organize Branch 77 at a meeting where 52 other women were present. For the past 50 years, this group has stayed together and Elizabeth claims her Golden Membership Anniversary this year. We congratulate her! She has served 29 years as treasurer and 5 years as vice-president. She has been very active planning many parties and picnics and you can imagine how many events have gone on in the last
50	years! All her family has been enrolled in the Branch and she is a most loyal promoter of the Slovenian Women’s Union. Her sister members have chosen her as their Mother of the Year saying she is a wonderful mother and “grammy”.
Grandmother she is to six: Maureen, Melissa, Matthew Mur-phey and Susan and Steven Conway. She and her husband, Charles, married 50 years in 1985, celebrated by renewing their vows at St. Ambrose Church and hosting a dinner that evening for relatives and friends. Daughter, Betty Ann Murphey, who is the president of Br. 77, a son, James and their youngest daughter, Bernice helped to arrange all the celebration.
Elizabeth is a graduate of Park Institute Business College and worked for some years at Kappel’s Jewelry Co. in Pittsburgh. She is a member of the Spring Hill Civic League, St. Ambrose Senior Citizen’s group, 66 League, Jolly
Girls Bowling League, Christian Mothers of St. Ambrose, Special People Club and 500 Club.
Her activities and talents are many we admire and lover her. Happy Mothers Day!
Branch 79, Enumclaw, Washington
iJlnna J2auscl\
We have an active group of members in the western state of Washington, pioneers who came there from various places in the west and established a fine community. Anna Laush, born in Colorado, has made her home in Renton, Washington for many years and with her husband, Frank, whom she married in 1924, reared two sons, Frank and John. Anna is always
looking for ways to keep herself busy and to bring joy to others. She was widowed early in her life and has withstood all the trials and tribulations of life with a smiling face and loving attitude. These are the qualities that make her so special to her sister-members at Branch 79. They say she is soft-spoken kind and always showing God’s love and caring.
Anna was employed for 24-1/2 years at Clark Boeing Co. and is now retired. She is a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church Altar Society, Outreach, Veterans organization and was an officer of another local fraternal organization. She has not been an officer during her membership with S.W.U. but attends all meetings and functions as regularly as she is able.
She loves her garden and is a master cook, always hosting large
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Branch 89, Oglesby, Illinois
Smma iFoltynewicz
Emma and Frank Folty (Foltynewicz) were married June 17, 1939 at St. Roch’s Church in LaSalle, Illinois and started their married life in Tonica, Illinois. They have resided there since.
She is the daughter of the late Egidy and Josephine Hauptman of Oglesby. Joining the SWU Branch 89 kept her in touch with the many older Slovenian women that reminded her of her own mother. Most of those dear members are gone and it is in their memory she feels it is worth driving 8 miles each month to attend meetings and carry on in the tradition of Br. 89’s pioneers.
In 1942, as a new homemaker and mother she became involved in the LaSalle Co. Homemakers Extension Assoc. This organization gave her the opportunity to learn what it takes to become a good homemaker and to share this knowledge with others. During her forty-four years with the Extension service she has served in all the offices, over twenty of them, as president. At present she is serving as 1st Vice-President of the Tonica unit.
In 1951 she took over the operation of her brother’s grocery store in Oglesby while he was ill. After his recovery, she realized she would miss the public aspect of this business so on June 21st, 1952 her dream of Folly’s Market in Tonica became a reality.
The following year her husband gave up his trucking business and joined her in the new venture, selling meats and groceries. They outgrew the first small store and in July, 1962
Branch 92, Gunnison, Colorado
Ball, a\a ' £Bur\ny Splilzel
Bunny Spritzer has been an active member of Br. 92 for 6 years. And now, she has earned her spot as'our Mother of the year!
Bunny has been married to Jake for 21 years and they have five children. The two oldest sons have started lives of their own. One is newly married and the other has joined the Army. Three are remaining at home, the youngest is 6 years old soon to be seven. Bunny has that twinkle in her eyes that shows the loving and caring she has for others and the smile shows her friendship is real.
Bunny has worked the last 3-1/2 years before which she was content to be a good, happy homemaker. She has been a very active member in the Catholic church and the Altar and Rosary Society of which she was president and vice-president for a few years. She has also been vice-president of our own SWU for two years.
Jake, Jake, Jr., Michael, Aaron, Josie and Mary all join in wishing their wife and mother the best and all of us say the same! God love our Bunny!
Branch 95, South Chicago, Illinois
WoLrtes . ‘Hennelly
The spotlight is on Dolores Hennelly (nee Vogler) who resides at 6815 Brementowne Dr., Tinley Park, 111. 60477. She was chosen by members as our “Woman of the Year.”
Dolores is a native of Chicago, born on November 15, 1932. Due to the death of her mother at an early age, Dolores was left to be reared by her grandmother. She is a graduate of Perry School and Chicago Vocational High School.
On February 23, 1957 Dolores
became the wife of Daniel Hennelly and from this marriage, three children were born, Donald, Donna (North) and Danny. She is a grandmother of three grandchildren, Theresa North and Victoria and Jessica Hennelly, who keep things lively around the Hennelly home.
Dolores and Daniel have a strong belief in religion and are members of St. Damien’s Parish in Oak Forest. She volunteers her services to her church and to the school from which her children graduated. She also was a Den Mother for the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts. You can see that they both have a special place in their hearts which is reserved strictly for their family. These are the foundations of family and church which provide them the stability of life together. They marked the 25th Anniversary of their marriage four years ago.
Presently, Dolores is a School Bus driver for School Dist. 230 in Orland Park, 111. For her safety record, she is serving on the Safety Council.
Her interests are many but has most enthusiasm for baking, bowling and traveling. She enjoys
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Branch 100, Fontana, California
<CMa’iy jCou ^Videlgai
MaryLou Vidergar was born of Slovenian parents in Fontana, California. She graduated from Fontana High School, then went to work for the Fontana High School district office. She soon became the High School principle’s secretary.
In 1960, she married Frank J. Vidergar. They have two children, Frank, Jr., and Lisa, both students at<the University of Notre Dame.
Since a child, MaryLou has always been very active in Slovenian fraternal and cultural activities, affairs and programs. She has been the SNPJ Youth Circle Director in Fontana for over eight years and has personally directed that group in their many performances as a very fine musical ensemble. They perform with button accordians, piano, and guitar and sing traditional Slovenian and American songs.
MaryLou was always very involved with her children when they attended St. Joseph’s Academy in Fontana and Acquinas Catholic High School in San Bernardino. She was a Cub Scout Den Mother and actively participated in various Girl Scout activities.
MaryLou reads, writes, and speaks Slovenian fluently as a second language.
MaryLou is a member of St. Joseph’s parish in Fontana. She is a member of SNPJ Lodge No. 723 and KSKJ Lodge No. 253 and is a charter member of the Slovenian Women’s Union Branch 100, was it’s first recording secretary and presently is it’s vice-president. MaryLou’s mother, Mary Glad, mother-in-law, Mary Vidergar, and daughter, Lisa, are also members of Br. 100.
Our very best wishes and fond gratitude.
Mary and Vitko Staut
Branch 102, Willard, Wisconsin
3ttaly Staut
Mary Staut is one of the prime movers of activities in the Willard area. She is the secretary of the local organization of Slovenians called “Slovenska Družba’ and vice-president of Merry Homemakers. Her knowledge of the Slovenian language, customs and food has helped to maker her a leader among her contemporaries who are all seeking to know more about their ancestry. She taught her four grand nieces to sing Slovenian folksongs and sewed national costumes for them to wear for their performances. Mary was active in organizing the concert of the Ljubljanski Oktet in 1984 and last summer, the visit of the famed Lojze Slak Ansambl which brought a record crowd. The successes proved to Mary that the Slovenians in the Willard and northern Wisconsin area are really interested in their culture.
Mary and her husband made a visit to Slovenia in 1968 via Mannheim, Germany to visit their son, John and family while he was in military service. Then they went on to see the beauty of Slovenia for the first time. (Mary was born in Wisconsin altho she knows more about her parents’ homeland than many who were born there!) Her second trip was on 1969 with her mother, then age 76, to visit mother’s birthplace in Gornji Grad after 57 years absence. In 1984, Mary and her sister, Betty enjoyed a wonderful tour of Slovenia.
Mary was a delegate to the last
National SWU Convention in 1983 in Chisholm, Minnesota. She is a member for over 40 yars and attends all meetings, promoting interest among members in all sorts of activities. She is responsible for compiling the branch’s history for the SWU slide show and decorates their annual Christmas tree with Slovenian heritage crafts. She is always friendly and gives her full attention to everything she does, making her a very valuable member, officer and leader.
She is the mother of three grown children and has 12 grandchildren.
It’s a pleasure to honor Maty this way and to extend to her heartiest congratulations!
Branch 103, Washington, D.C.
ctfvanka ^Jlntolin
Realizing that our younger members are very special to our group, we have chosen to honor Miss Ivanka Antolin, the eldest daughter of the late Dr. Victor Antolin and Mrs. Ivanka Antolin.
She was born August 13, 1953 in Madrid, Spain, one of the thirteen children in this family. Many of us remember her as a lovely little junior member and often escorting younger brothers and sisters to participate in many Mother’s Day programs at our branch. She has been our member for ten years and has served as Program Chairman for the past three. She is highly spirited and adds enthusiasm to every event.
Following high school Ivanka attended St. Joseph’s College, a girls’ school in Emmitsurg, Maryland, for two years. While there she belonged to the Association of the Children of Mary. She was no stranger to the campus as her beloved father was professor of Philosophy there.
Later she attended Juniata College in Hungtingdon, PA and received her Bachelor of Science degree in biology. She belonged to the Tri-Beta Honor Society.
She is a Medical Technologist and belongs to the American Society of Clinical Chemistry and the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Her first position was that of Medical Technologist at St. Vincent’s Charity Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. After four years she returned to the Washington area and is currently employed at Sibley Hospital where she continues to further her career. She resides in Alexandria, VA.
We see Ivanka as an attractive, young woman, capable and determined. She likes to have a good time and enjoys especially the exciting sports of sailing and white water rafting. She belongs to the Washington Slovenian Choral Group, too.
Ivanka refers to herself as a modern and independent woman. She is proud of her Slovenian heritage and speaks the language fluently. Her family is important to her and she has a strong sense of devotion and duty to them.
Within the past few years she and her family have experienced much sorrow with the death of their father at the age of 62 and son and brother, Robert, age 27, last October. She has met the challenge and continues to go forward with much thoughtfullness towards her family.
Mother and sister, Kristina, are also members of our branch. We wish young Ivanka much joy and success in the future.
Freda Michelitch President
Mothers- Women of the Year Continued
PATRICIA A. URAYNAR
1. She is an avid bowler herself so has been trying to organize a team for the SWU tournaments. She also contributes regularly to bake sales and comes to meetings full of pep and ideas! She has lots of hobbies, too, such as crafts and baking, traveling, fishing and of course, bowling.
She and her husband, James live at 1245 Columbus Ave. She has a son, Jeffrey Jaschinski who is 25. She is the kind of person everyone likes to be with, and she gives herself into everything she does. That’s another reason why she was named twice as Woman of the Year by a local sorority and why the members of Br. 1 are pleased to chose her for their own Mother-Member of the Year in 1986! Heartiest wishes for continued success and happiness.
FRANCES MORISON
for every person she meets. Fran has the respect of each of us because of the respect and courtesy that she has shown for everyone.
Fran is the daughter of the late Charles Puchreiter and Frances Zakrajšek, who emigrated from Europe to the Iron Range of Minnesota. She still has numerous relatives in Slovenia and she is looking forward to meeting them next year. Her mother passed away when she was only 4 and her brother 13. Her aunt, Mary Deblock, played a significant role in Fran’s early life, caring for her during her mother’s illness and before her father’s remarriage. Her love, tenderness and care left a positive impact on her life for which she is most appreciative.
After graduation from high school, Fran pursued a career as a private secretary. She married her husband Percy in 1951. She became a great source of encouragement and support for her husband while he went through engineering school. Fran and Percy are both self-employed, and they are looking forward to travelling, God willing, after they retire.
Fran and Percy have two sons, Michael and Terrance. Coming from a family strong in faith and Slovenian values, Fran worked hard to instill these in her sons. She is a dedicated mother who stands ready
with a word of encouragement and support in triumph or trial. Both sons have earned various degrees and are graduates of Loyola University of Chicago. They both are using their degrees and unique set of talents to pursue rich and rewarding lives of service.
The unusually unique thing about Fran and her family is their ability to work together and willingness to help one another. It is beautiful to see each of them pitching in - each using his own unique set of talents - to help our branch. This sense of family togetherness has carried over into our branch during the past four years helping us to grow, with more family involvement and more members attending our meetings.
Fran is a selfless person who does one thing at a time, and she does it well. She has brought new ideas, enthusiasm, and plain good old fashioned hard work to her tenure as branch president. This has greatly developed the sense of sisterhood among our members, and it has drawn us closer together. We look forward to each and every meeting to see what the theme and surprise treat will be for the evening. During the past four years our branch has gained a sense of purpose about itself by initiating a monthly cheer basket to help Fr. Vendelin’s poor, assisting the heritage museum, and contributing to promote research on Bishop Baraga, as well as assisting the scholarship fund. Fran leads us by serving, listening, and caring. The beautiful thing about Fran is that she asks for nothing in return; she simply looks for the smiles on our faces.
Many well-deserved accolades can be given to this mother of the year, but they would not adequately describe what we feel for her. She loves her family and they love her; she loves us and we love her. Fran, thank you for all that you have done and for all that you will do. Congratulations to our 1986 mother of the year!
Reporter
ROSE URSICK
Last year, in 1985, Rose and Louis visited Slovenia and really enjoyed themselves. They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 1981 with a wonderful party held at St. Mary’s church - first with Holy Mass then a breakfast followed by a dinner
reception at the Pueblo Country Club. This June will be their 55th year together!
Congratulations, Rose and Louis! We feel our Rose is truly deserving of this honor and we wish her many more years of continued good health, good luck and much success.
Frances Simonich
MARY KIEL
Bosich and Carolyn Bauman.
Mary and Ed do a lot of charitable work, especially for Alvernia Manor in Lemont, Illinois, a home for the elderly.
She is also the “tour director” for Br. 12 excursions and organizes and arranges all of our bus tours for the Slovenian Retirees Club and St. John’s Church Socialites. She also contributes a great deal to Br. 12 in the line of baked goods, wonderful noodles, prizes, crafts and gives her valuable help. She has been a member for approximately 40 years.
We appreciate all she has done for our branch and may God bless and keep her in good health.
Ann Grambow
ALICE KUHAR
Chapter Administrator for the Cleveland Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, a professional organization which among seminars and social functions presents the Annual Emmy Awards.
From her childhood Alice recalled her parents stressing the importance of participation in the privilege of an American to vote. An interest in civic affairs emerged with a desire to become active in promoting political candidates whose primary motive is the interest in the betterment of the community and country and so Miss Kuhar became a member of many of these volunteer organizations.
Ohio Governor Gilligan appointed Alice Kuhar to the Ohio Educational Television Network as a commission member where she served from 1972-
1976.
The beautiful country that her parents told their children about awakened a desire to travel to Slovenia and her dream came true in 1968. Now she could see the in-
credible beauty of the mountains and valleys and experience the warmth of its people. Alice was so impressed with the paradise of her ancestors she has returned every year since, always meeting new friends and relatives.
These trips aroused an interest in Slovenian culture and after the first trip, with a tour led by Tony Petkovšek, she became Secretary of the Slovenian Radio-TV Club whose function is to perpetuate and promote the Slovenian radio program now heard on WELW, NBN and WCPN. The Radio Club, which this year is celebrating its 25th anniversary, is also the originator of the Thanksgiving Day dances which have become a tradition in the Cleveland area with guests from throughout the country.
As it seems natural with her background in radio, Alice occasionally substitutes for Tony Petkovšek on his radio program during his absences. In 1978, with a suggestion from Tony, Alice hosted a portion on his program geared to women listeners. This weekly segment features recipes along with music performed by women in the music field and became so popular that Alice has published two volumes of her Carousel Cookbook, the title of which comes from her 15 minute air show which is heard weekly on WELW during Tony Petkovsek’s polka program.
Alice is one of the charter members of the United Slovenian Society and was Corresponding Secretary from 1970-1980. One of the undertakings of the U.S.S. was the formation of the U.S.S. Concert Band where Alice served as Band Secretary from 1978-1985 and in 1982 was thrilled to travel with the band to Slovenia as they made tour appearances in that country.
Alice’s mother, Anna Kuhar, was very fond of S.W.U. No. 14 and enjoyed participation in their monthly meetings and socials for the 51 years she was a member. Alice joined in 1978 and soon after became reporter for this ZARJA publication. She, too, has developed a fondness for this lodge and contributes her time whenever called upon. She is also a member of SNPJ No. 142 and KSKJ No. 255 Our Lady of Fatima.
Reporter
ANNE KSIAZEK
regularly and serving on committees whenever called upon. She enrolled her children as well as her grandchildren in Branch No. 16. Presently, she is tied for second place in the current 20/20 Membership Campaign - nice work, Anne! She served as a delegate at the Regional Convention held in LaSalle in October 1985. She was also a membr of the S.W.U. Kitchen Band and appeared in her beautiful Polish costume.
While Anne’s children attended St. George’s School, she was very active in the School Mothers’ Organization and now she is a member of the Alumni Association. She is also a very active member of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers having been elected Mother-of-the-Year in 1976, and is a member of the DeSales Senior Center. Anne is an ex-member of the School Board.
To unwind from all the foregoing activities in her busy life, Anne enjoys playing Po-Ke-No with the members of her weekly club and also her Bunco Club which meets monthly. She also finds enjoyment in playing Bunco with the Boniver Ladies who meet monthly at Calumet Park. They have fun attending theater parties and other forms of entertainment appearing in the area.
Anne and her family will be the honored guests at our Mother-of-the-Year Dinner to be held in St. George Church Hall on Thursday, May 8th at 6:30 p.m. at which time she will be crowned Mother-of-the-Year by our
1985	Mother-of-the-Year, and her very good friend, Mary Priesol.
All of us wish you a Happy Mothers’ Day and it is our sincerest wish, Anne, that you will be blessed with good health so that you can continue with your good work. Congratulations!
Gladys K. Buck
MARY ANZELC
bowling when time permits.
A very happy occasion recently was a family reunion held in Ely, Minn., which is where her parents were married. Ten of thirteen brothers and sisters were able to attend, including their families. Mary’s mother was a member of Branch 20, as are her daughters, Mary Ellen and Janet and her sisters Jenny Prijatel, of Br. 23, Ely, Minn., and Bernardine Madronich of Br. 13, San Francisco, California. She also has six sisters-in-law who are
members of Branch 20.
Our congratulations to Mary, a dedicated person and most appreciated.
Reporter
AUGUSTINE (VICKY) HOLNY
beautiful smile which is seen in her picture, and a lovely personality.
We wish to congratulate her as our Mother for this Year and may she have many more happy years to come.
Jo Comenshek,
Secretary
EMILY R. SKULL
She has kept up her Slovenian heritage in her home. She is especially popular with her family on holidays when she always serves the traditional Slovenian treats to her very appreciative family.
Some of the activities she participates in at St. Elizabeth’s parish are: Religious Education teacher, choir member, church caterer, chairman of church dinners, and also was past president of the parish Women’s Council.
Emily is a volunteer at Duluth’s Soup kitchen. She is a member of K.S.K.J. and also the K.S.K.J. Singers, which is directed by her daughter, Susan.
Loving, caring, friendly, giving, cheerful, hard working - are just some of the adjectives that could be used to describe this very special “woman”-we call “EMILY”.
Lois Pelander.
Reporter
ADELINE MUSTONEN
Adeline married her high school classmate, Ernest E. Mustonen at the old St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tower. Presently her husband, Ernie, is the principal of the Tower-Soudan Junior and Senior High School. They have three children, all graduates of the University of Minnesota, Duluth, namely: Lawrence who works for Control data in Minneapolis as a Security Administrator; Monica who is married to Tom Pustovar of Chisholm and they live in Hibbing; he is Dept. Manager Profit and Cost Analysis/Accounting at the Minntac Plant in Mt. Iron; and James who works as an accountant for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minneapolis. She has two granddaughters, Gina and Leah Pustovar, ages 4 and 2.
Adeline has been a homemaker all of her married life and devoted her
full time to raising her family. She has been past president of St. Martin’s Council of Catholic Women and the American Legion Auxiliary and presently she is the president and a loyal member for 32 years of S.W.U.-Branch 34. She assumed the presidency in 1979 and has done a tremendous job of reorganization. Being an excellent organizer and having innovative ideas, our members look forward to attending the meetings regularly. Adeline’s mother, Angela Pavlich, a charter member was also president of Branch 34, in fact, she has the distinct honor of being the first president elected by Branch 34 in 1929.
Among her other interests, Adeline is in charge of an ecumenical Bible study group and has been a member of same for 14 years, attends numerous school functions, is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and St. Martin’s Council of Catholic Women and is our S.W.U. “Star” reporter for the ZARJA magazine. Her hobbies are reading and writing — and she does a lot of writing! As she said, “Just trying to keep up with correspondence from my family takes time.” Summers are pleasant and relaxing as Adeline and her husband enjoy their cabin at Eagles Nest Lake. They look forward to family and friends who visit them and perhaps catch some fresh walleyes or bass or just take a leisurely boat ride around beautiful Eagles Nest Lake. Adeline and Ernie have traveled to California, Phoenix, Chicago and Milwaukee and she particularly recalled fond memories of their trip to California with their children when they were young.
Other memorable events were their 25th wedding anniversary in 1979 and their only daughter’s wedding in 1980; their family and many relatives from near and far helped them celebrate these joyous occasions. Proud and happy times were the births of her two granddaughters, Gina and Leah Pustovar; her face beams radiantly when speaking about them; she truly enjoys being a loving Grandma.
Right now Adeline and her husband Ernest are looking forward to their eldest son, Larry’s wedding on June 28th when he will marry Mary Elizabeth Yung at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in South St. Paul.
The members of Branch 34 are
proud to honor you, Adeline, as our Mother of the Year. Congratulations and best wishes and may God bless you with good health, happiness and peace. Our love and prayers are with you always!
Victoria Bobence, Secretary
GUDRUN LUTHER
crocheting, playing Bingo, gardening and music. In her younger years she was an avid traveler.
Our members want to congratulate her and wish her continued good health and happiness. May she continue to brighten up our corner of the world with her beautiful smile and friendly personality.
Reporter
AGNES TOMAZIN
enjoying their grandchildren. Agnes is a member of K.S.K.J. Lodge 101, the Ladies Guild, Slovenian Women’s Union No. 40 and St. Cyril and Methodius Church, involved with button box lessons, part-time employment and entertaining on her button box at various local activities. This makes for a busy lady.
Agnes is shown with her button box and two friends, Lorrie Docs and Pete Celik, associates in music.
We are delighted to have her as a member - and honor her as “Mother of the Year” in 1986.
Mary Ploszaj
ANNA REZIN
and the St. Lawrence Church Altar Society.
This past January, Anna Rezin celebrated her 85th birthday and, so, we extend wishes for many more healthful years. On May 13th, Branch 42 members will have a Mother of the Year Mass at St. Venceslas Church followed by a light supper at the Slovenian National Home in Maple Heights; this is our way of showing love to a very loving, caring person. Congratulations, Anna!
CECELIA WOLF
Cecelia is a wonderful home maker and gardening was always dear to her heart. She feels that “One is nearer to God’s Heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth”. Her garden is a show place.
This dynamic lady always greets you with a sincere smile and is kind
and compassionate and is loved by all who know her. We wish her the best of health and much happiness during “her year”!!!
She will be honored on her day on May 18th with a Mass at St. Mary’s Church (Holmes Ave.) and a dinner will follow. Plans are incomplete but be sure you circle that day and plan to be with us to honor this wonderful, dynamic lady.
Reporter, J. G.
ANN MAREDA
they won was called “Zlata spominska knjiga”. It was the beginning of a long and very successful fraternal life for Br. 47.
Ann was born into the Zorman family on Jan. 23, 1910 in the city of Calumet, Michigan. She married Frank Mareda on June 18, 1932. They have a son, Robert, who is 48 years old and three grandchildren: Debbie is married for two years and is expecting her first child this month, making Ann a great-grandma for the first time. Granddaughter Patricia has a degree from Kent State University in nursing and Robert was recently married and has his own business, an auto body shop.
Our Chosen Mother Ann graduated from Holy Name High school summa cum laude. She was valedictorian of her eighth grade class and took 2nd place honors in her high school graduating class. She retired from employment at the Ohio Bell Telephone Co. after 39 years of service. She is a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America, the Maple Hgts. - Newburg Slovenian Pensioners Club, National and local chapter of AARP.
Honors she has received are a Superior Rating, a rare honor given to those working in the Data Processing Dept, of the Telephone Co.
Ann and Frank celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary at St. Lawrence Church in 1982.
Her hobbies include traveling, crocheting and reading. Ann also takes part in all events, helps by baking for all occasions and attends meetings regularly. Seldom does she miss a meeting unless she is out of town traveling - that’s the only thing that keeps her away. She has a sister that is our member, too. Ann is most faithful, ready and willing to help when needed. God bless her and her family with many years of good health and happiness. Happy Mother’s Day!
Mary Taucher
LORETTA HLABSE
her children played a big part in her life as she spent a lot of her time enjoying them.
For the last 4 years she is living with her sister, Millie, does belong to many groups and is active at St. William’s Church, St. Robert’s Church, St. Christine’s Church, the A.A.R.P., the Slovenian Natl. Art Guild, KSKJ No. 191 and Euclid Pensioners.
She also loves and does some traveling. Our sincerest wishes for many happy years. We love you!
Ann Tercek, President
FRANCES CAZIN
and with her pleasing personality and smiling face, she has endeared herself to many friends.
They are the parents of two daughters Clare Petrich and Mary Ann Vidmar, and their whole world is wrapped around their four little grandsons, Joey Petrich (9), David (6), Ricky (13), and John (9) Vidmar.
Altho in the background, Frances is always there when needed as any of her family members will tell you or any of her many friends. God’s blessings and good health to our Fran and may she be with us for many more years!
ANNA LAUSCH
family gatherings at holiday time. She does have 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She also enjoys hard work.
Anna says: I want to thank all of the members for giving me the honor of being the Mother of the Year as I know there are others more worthy than 1. 1 have always enjoyed being with you all and hope I will be able to participate more. I’m having eye problems so only hope and pray it will get better. God bless you all.”
We extend our love to Anna!
EMMA FOLTY
a new and larger market was built. Their son, Robert joined them in the operation at that time and later on, grandsons, during their school years, were also involved in helping out at the store.
Folty’s Super Market is at the present time operated by son and daughter-in-law and Emma and Frank still show up almost daily to visit. The Folty family takes pride in their community and are involved in
most community affairs. High on their priority is the Tonica volunteer Fire Dept., Her husband, son, Robert and grandson, Dirk are active volunteer firemen. Daughter-in-law, Diane is an E.M.T. with the ambulance Dept, and granddaughter, Holly and Emma are members of the Firettes, an auxiliary of the Fire Dept. Our Mother of the Year was instrumental in organizing this auxiliary. She has served as secretary and president for several years and is still active with the younger members.
She is a very busy and active person. She is looking forward to the
1986	State Convention which will be hosted by the Oglesby and De Pue branches for members from the states of Illinois and Indiana.
Emma also loves to do needlepoint and refinishing furniture, both skills that take patience and time. She also spends lots of time with her two great grandsons, Eric and Brandon.
What an exemplary woman she is! A woman, wife, mother and grandmother that is a true ideal to her community. Our heartiest wishes for long and healthy life and happiness to her and all the family.
DOLORES HENNELLY
being involved with people, is kind and friendly to all, is well-organized and likes to take things one step at a time in a constructive and creative manner. She follows the principles she learned in her early life from her grandmother and takes pride in all her accomplishments, but sets goals at a level where she can be successful because she does not like to be frustrated by failure. With all these attributes it is scarcely surprising that she won the award for our “Woman of the Year.” To me it’s a cherished privilege to have known Dolores when she was a little girl, and I am happy for this opportunity to add my voice to congratulate her on this memorable occasion, and to commend the members on the wise choice they have made in selecting her.
We wish her and hubby a long life together, and good health for the rest of their days. Dolores, we thank you sincerely for all the services that you have rendered to our branch.
God bless!
Mildred James
Antonia Dolinar celebrated her 90th birthday this year. She was born to Marija and Gregor Kebe on January 16, 1896 in a town called Cerknica in Slovenia. When she was 17 years old, she came to Davis, W.VA. to work in a lumber camp run by Rose and Andy Jankovič, parents of Frank Yankovic, the famed Polka King. In 1915 she left West Virginia and went to Cleveland where she met and married John Dolinar, who was a carpenter.
After 66 years of marriage, he passed away at the age of 96 in 1982. They had two children, John and Jo (Walters). Antonia was the treasurer of Branch 47 in Garfield Hgts., for many years. Her good friend and neighbor was organizer of Br. 47, Helen Tomazic and she helped to start the Branch in 1931 with 104 new members at their first meeting a! the home of Ursula Zala. She still enjoys going to meetings and social functions of the branch.
We extend our warmest wishes to Mrs. Dolinar and hope she has a Happy Mother’s Day, full of contentment and happiness.
Reporter
ANTONIA DOLINAR,
A YOUNG LADY OF90!
SIX MONTHS REPORT OF BRANCH ASSESSMENTS July 1 to December 31,1985
Branch
Amount Adult Junior
1. Sheboygan, WI	$819.85	145	21
2. Chicago, 1L	■ 1,778.20	287	144
3. Pueblo, CO	1,243.95	216	60
5. Indianapolis, IN	301.80	67	6
6. Barberton, OH	87.30	56	5
7. Forest City, PA	78.20	30	0
8. Steelton, PA	60.60	16	0
10. Cleveland, OH	882.05	182	15
12. Milwaukee, WI	530.55	98	23
13. San Francisco, CA	541.45	96	11
14. Euclid, OH	1,129.80	222	13
15. Cleveland, OH	1,028.35	98	0
16. South Chicago, IL	858.20	136	38
17. West Allis, WI	887.05	156	55
19. Eveleth, MN	280.40	58	4
20. Joliet, IL	2,572.60	464	99
21. Cleveland, OH	369.60	76	12
22. Bradley, IL	84.30	15	0
23. Ely, MN	1,074.90	195	21
24. LaSalle, IL	382.00	96	10
25. Cleveland, OH	1,721.00	284	20
26. Pittsburgh, PA	718.25	114	7
27. North Braddock, PA	—	15	0
28. Calumet, MI	260.75	47	2
29. Browndale. PA	5.40	6	0
30. Home Office	135.80	34	3
31. Gilbert, MN	204.00	42	0
32. Euclid, OH	1,204.90	200	49
33. Duluth, MN	1,041.25	168	31
34. Soudan, MN	273.80	44	10
35. Aurora, MN	475.95	68	24
37. Greaney, MN	27.30	7	0
38. Chisholm, MN	509.50	75	8
39. Biwabik, MN	252.30	46	3
40. Lorain, OH	407.15	76	5
41. Cleveland, OH	269.90	62	4
42. Maple Heights, OH	414.60	73	16
43. Milwaukee, WI	1,054.20	180	31
45. Portland, OR	—	30	7
46. St. Louis, MO	44.60	15	1
47. Garfield Hgts., OH	408.45	77	24
50. Cleveland, OH	2,441.55	366	57
52. Kitzville, MN	138.20	37	1
54. Warren, OH	143.85	28	2
55. Girard, OH	205.95	40	9
56. Hibbing, MN	273.15	55	3
57. Niles, OH	197.50	40	1
59. Burgettstown, PA	149.80	25	5
63. Denver, CO	74.60	30	0
64. Kansas City, KS	121.75	22	0
65. Virginia, MN	—	22	2
66. Canon City, CO	209.10	39	2
67. Bessemer, PA	234.00	45	0
68. Fairport Harbor, OH	275.20	48	3
70. West Aliquippa, PA	--	9	0
71. Strabane, PA	485.85	98	17
73. Warrensville Hts, OH	424.95	82	22
74. Ambridge, PA	—	18	0
77. NS Pittsburgh, PA	65.40	15	2
79. Enumclaw, WA	77.10	39	5
80. Moon Run, PA	7.20	3	0
81. Keewatin, MN	122.70	19	2
83. Crosby, MN	40.50	10	0
84. New York, NY	20.20	15	0
85. DePue, IL	195.70	26	1
86. Nashwauk, MN	..	11	0
88. Johnstown, PA	37.40	19	0
89. Oglesby, IL	178.20	39	0
90. Bridgeville, PA	24.60	13	0
91. Oakmont, PA	152.55	32	0
92. Gunnison, CO	109.60	25	6
93. Brooklyn, NY	108.60	30	0
95. South Chicago, IL	988.30	138	6
96. Universal, PA	--	27	1
97. Cairnbrook, PA	56.70	6	0
99. Elmhurst, IL	24.30	5	0
100. Fontana, CA	157.50	45	15
101. Bedford Hgts, OH	126.00	19	7
102. Willard, WI	93.00	34	7
103. Washington, D.C.	137.60	34	5
105. Detroit, MI	—	41	0
106. Meadowlands, PA	—	18	0
Socials
$32,518.85 6,040	968
445
$32,518.85 6,049 968 Olga Ancel, Nat’I Secretary
that we would go in with them in hosting the lllinois-Indiana Convention in October. We met with them in January at the home of our Pres. Gen Grilc. Plans were being formulated at that time and will be announced at a later date after they are finalized.
I	am sorry to report the death of our oldest member, Jennie Blatnik, who passed away March 6th. Mrs. Blatnik was 96 years old and a charter member of our branch. Four of our members served as honorary pallbearers. They were: Gen Grilc, Rose Lopez, Mildred Lavrin and Mary Jermene. She is survived by 2
sons, John of Downers Grove and William of Lockport and four grandchildren. Our deepest sympathy to them.
We only have two of our older Slovenians left. Mr. Anton Siska was 103 years old in January. His wife was a charter member of our branch. His daughter, Julia, took care of him for eight years until she was not able to anymore. He is in the Prairie View Nursing Home in Princeton, 1L and we wish him the best.
Mrs. Josephine Slatner recently celebrated her 90th birthday. A birthday party was held at the home of her son, Alfred, with all the
members of her family attending. Mrs. Slatner still takes care of her home and yard and still looks “terrific”. Our condolences also to Mrs. Slatner who recently lost her son-in-law.
We welcome a new member to our branch. Frances Krogulski has joined as a social member. We are happy to have you with us, Fran.
One of our members, Virginia Grilc, has been in the hospital for quite a while and just recently returned home. We all wish her the best and hope she is feeling much better.
Congratulations to my sister who
CORNMEAL MINI LOAVES
Frances Jasbec, Chicago, IL
2	packages active	1/2	cup cold water
dry yeast	5*/2	to 6 cups flour
*/2 cup warm water	2	eggs, beaten
1 cup milk, scalded	1	cup cornmeal, yellow
1/2 cup shortening	(enriched)
1/2	cup sugar
1	tablespoon salt
Dissolve yeast in warm water. Scald milk. In mixing bowl, add shortening, sugar and salt; pour over the scalded milk, stirring occasionally until shortening melts. Add 1 /2 cup cold water; cool to lukewarm. Stir in 2 cups of flour and the eggs; add dissolved yeast and cornmeal. Stir in enough flour to make a soft dough. Turn dough onto lightly floured surface; knead 8 to 10 minutes, adding only enough flour to make a soft, elastic and non-sticky dough. Put into greased bowl, turn to coat surface of dough. Cover; let rise in warm place about 1 hour or until double. Punch dough down; form 6 individual loaves about 6 inches - long-shaped like French bread. Generously grease 2 large cookie sheets; sprinkle each with about 2 tablespoons cornmeal. Put 3 loaves on each cookie sheet. Cut 3 - '/2 inch deep slashes across top of each loaf. Cover, let rise about 45 minutes or until nearly double. Bake at 400° 18 to minutes or until golden brown.
HINTS: I use the Kitchen-Aid mixer to make the dough.
For 2 regular loaves - generously grease 2 bread loaf baking pans. Sprinkle with cornmeal. Place half of the dough into each pan; cover and let rise. Bake at 325° for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
HAM BREAKFAST SOUFFLE
Nika Kovačič, Washington, D.C.
•/2	stick butter	2	cups bite-size
1	onion, chopped		pieces of ham
1	pound clean mushrooms,	8	ounces mellow Cheddar
	sliced		cheese, shredded
1	green pepper (clean),	7	eggs
	diced	3«/2	cups milk
16	sliced bread (Monastery	11/2	teaspoon dry mustard
	or sandwich)	1	teaspoon salt
8	ounces sharp Cheddar	1/4	teaspoon white pepper
	cheese, shredded	2	cups crushed
			corn flakes
		2	tablespoons butter,
			cut up
Saute in butter the onion, mushrooms and green pepper until tender. Place 8 slices of bread on bottom of well-greased 9 x 13-inch pan (cut crust off bread). Top bread with sharp Cheddar cheese; then ham. Spread sauteed vegetables over ham. Place mellow Cheddar cheese over vegetables and top with 8 bread slices over all ingredients. Mix together the eggs, milk, mustard, salt and pepper. Pour over top of bread. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and let set in refrigerator overnight. Before baking sprinkle with corn flakes and dabs of butter. Bake uncovered in 350° oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes; turn off oven and leave in for 10 minutes. 12 servings.
Hermine Prisland Dicke 3717 Council Crest Madison, Wisconsin 53711
PotS and
During the annual S.W.U. national board meeting in Joliet, IL, the board members drove to Chicago to attend the festive St. Patrick-St. Joseph evening dinner sponsored by Branch No. 2 with 135 members present. Fran Morison, president, greeted us warmly (including George Vukodinovich and my husband, Bob). What gorgeous food - 17 delicious main dishes, 13 attractive salads, besides hors d’oeuvres, breads, cakes and bars. More recipes are coming, but one I obtained that night from Branch 2 is super -Frances Jasbec’s CORNMEAL MINI LOAVES - highly recommended by many.
Mary Ivanich of Joliet, who also attended the dinner sent me her BANANA CAKE which is “delicious and very simple”. Mary remarked that she enjoyed making the SLOVENIAN COUNTRY STYLE BREAD in Jan.-Feb. ZARJA — “just like mother’s”. She added: “I rolled out some of the dough quite thin (stretched somewhat) and cut it in various shapes before frying them in Crisco until brown on both sides, turning once. Sprinkled with granulated sugar, I served them to neighbors with hot coffee. Very good!”
For Mother’s Day besides Frances’s bread and Mary’s cake you may want to try another super dish: HAM BREAKFAST SOUFFLE by Nika Kovacic of Washington, D.C.
A Blessed Mother’s Day to all,
Affectionately,
Hermine
has two new grandchildren and that makes me a great aunt for the 3rd and 4th time. Our family planned to get together at Easter time at my brother’s home so it would be fun with the four little ones.
Best wishes to all our members, and to Father Bernard. We all wish him well. God bless.
MARY JERMENC
NO. 92, GUNNISON, CO
Thirteen members enjoyed a pleasant evening at home of Betty Stefanic. Fran Austin, our new president, presided at a short meeting. She reviewed our by-laws for us and acquainted us with the
various classes that can be enrolled in the lodge.
Betty Stefanic then installed Audry McKnight as our vice president since she was not present at our last meeting. Congratulations to all the new officers.
The minutes were read and approved as well as the treasurer’s report. Bunny Spritzer was given the
BANANA CAKE
Mary Ivanich, Joliet, IL
1	box yellow cake mix	2	eggs
1	teaspoon baking soda	1	cup mashed	bananas
'/4 cup oil 1	cup water
Beat together cake mix, baking soda, oil, water, eggs and bananas for 2 minutes on medium speed. Pour into greased and floured 13x9-inch pan. Bake at 350° 30 to 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Frosting
1	package (3V2 ounces)	1	cup milk
Instant Vanilla	1	carton (8 ounces)
Pudding	Cool Whip
Beat pudding and milk until thick, 2 minutes. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread on cooled cake. Keep in refrigerator.
honor of “Mother of the Year” by the members and will be crowned at the Mother’s Day banquet. Her biography is in this issue.
A letter was received from a dear member, Frieda Forcier. We all miss her and wish her well in her new home in North Salt Lake, Utah, where she spent time with her grandson. We know she will be active there as she was with us.
We have decided to purchase a crown that can be passed down to the next Mother of the Year, and it will be decorated for each occasion that a mother is honored. A gift of flowers was sent to Loretta Szaller who had a baby boy, her second.
Plans were made for the banquet, for making money for the lodge, and for entertainment at each meeting. The mystery box was won by Elsie Massaro. The next meeting will be held at the home of Audry McKnight on April 15.
A silent auction was held on mystery gifts brought by the members. Refreshments were served by Betty Stefanic and Frances Somrak. It is always a pleasure to meet with the ladies and plan for fun things to happen. I think Fern looked lonesome without the job of reporting. We do thank her for the many years she devoted to this task. I am trying not to be so formal about reporting the events of this group. Have a happy Easter and we hope everyone has a beautiful spring ahead.
FRANCES SOMRAK
_!
NO. 95, SO.CHICAGO.IL
I urge all members and friends to join us for the crowning ceremonies of our “Woman of the Year”, Dolores Hennelly, which is a special privileged occasion and should not be taken lightly. The date to remember, May 7th. Dinner is at 6:30 P.M. at Sacred Heart School Hall, tickets $6. Call Evelyn Driscoll, Chairlady, at 731-5088 or Charlotte Fryza, RE 4-4336. Prizes will be accepted by Mary (Bob) Perkovich and Manda Dosen. Please make every effort to attend! Remember we need each other!
Our March Meeting with 29 members present was a lively meeting to say the least. Discussions on changing the meeting date to an afternoon date was heated up, and nothing was solved, due to the fact that there is nothing available or open for a afternoon meeting; therefore we shall continue to have our meetings as is, until further notice.
After the meeting homemade goodies were provided by: Harriet Isek, Mary (Matt) Perkovich, Ann Granich, Manda Dosen, Virginia Kwiatkowski, Sylvia Vukodinovich, Mary Jurco. Donations by Sylvia Werner, Sophie Barbich, Mary Duich. A donation of $5, by Rose Smoljan, Ann Yosue, Helen Nowicki, Julie Hansen, Mary Zeleneka; $2, Bernice Morrison; $6.80, Marge Krmpotic, Olga Krm-potic, Harriet Isek and Marge Innis. Your donations are certainly appreciated.
Get well wishes to Bernice Bubel who has been hospitalized and underwent gall blader surgery. Happy to hear that Fran Griffin is on
the mend. Please remember the following members in your prayers: Bernice Bubel, Fran Griffin, Rose Mary Dichelle, Marge Doherty and Alice Kropel.
Our condolences to Sylvia Vukodinovich and Helen Alb on the loss of their beloved brother, Nick Nikolich.
Congratulations to Rudy and Maggie Pesut on the birth of their first born, a son, Anthony Rudolph Pesut. Mary Ann Taporis is bubbling over on being a Great Aunt. Last but not least Helen Jerbic enjoyed the Arizona sun. Dolores Hennelly and hubby are off to Ireland.
In conclusion, on May 11th Mother’s Day throughout the land, sons and daughters everywhere will express their love and gratitude to mother in a most special way — through greeting cards, flowers, and sundry gifts. For us, as Catholics, the perfect gift for mother is by attending Mass and receiving Holy Communion, whether she is living or deceased. There is so much in that precious gift! May God bless all mothers and may his own Mother keep you all in her loving care. PEACE!
MILDRED JAMES
NO. 105, DETROIT, MI
Our meeting on March 22nd was co-hosted by Alice Sheets and her granddaughter Donna Medina. A most enjoyable afternoon was spent with them.
We had 13 mothers and one lone handsome man attend, Tony, the husband of Mary Jamsek. It was good to see them again, also Agnes Loughlin.
We sold all of our chocolate Easter Rabbits so our Kitty was somewhat fattened. Thanks to John and Theresa Smoltz.
Our Mother of the Year luncheon will be on May 17th at 1 p.m. at Pennas, 27900 Hoover. Guests are very welcome.
We signed a Happy Birthday card for Fulvia Rosa and a get-well card for Catherine Musick who had toe surgery. We’re wishing our best to both of you.
We are hoping that we will be able to see Ann McGee soon. We know that she has the full burden of looking after her ailing sisters. Ann, our prayers and thoughts are with you.
We’re wishing all our members everywhere a Happy and most of all a healthy spring, which will soon be with us.
ANN POBANZ
EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS IN PHILADELPHIA AND OUR LADY OF BREZJE
Those of us fortunate enough to be present at the Eucharistic Congress in Philadelphia still cherish the memory of its beautiful and meaningful solemnities. And the Slovenes who were in attendance have brought from the Congress a meaningful addition: a resolution which was to embrace the Slovenes everywhere and which invites us to:
Every year on the eve of the feast of Our Lady of Brezje, the Patroness of the Slovenian people and Protectoress of the Slovenian heritage, on the 23rd of May, we will light in our homes a candle and spend the evening in meditation. We will reflect on the Christian values and traditions that guided our nation through the centuries, that mold us today and through us the nations where we live.
The Slovenian publications, at least some of them have brought regularly, year after year, a reminder of the Philadelphia resolution. Among them very conspicuously “Družina”, published each week in Ljubljana. “Ave Maria” in Lemont acquainted us this year rather early of the planned commemorative gathering in Lemont in line and in accordance with the Philadelphia resolution.
Community devotion to Our Lady of Brezje on her feast of May 24, at least this year on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the Eucharistic Congress of Philadelphia is a novelty which we would like to implement this year, possibly even as the beginning of regular observances. Moreover, the feast of Our Lady of Brezje this year is on a Saturday — traditionally a day with a major emphasis on the devotions to Our Lady.
Slovenes in the United States hardly live in delineated Slovenian settlements; we are, nevertheless, united through our parish communities, Slovenian organizations, or at least through circles of friends. Let us form Slovenian gatherings on the 24th of May and together pay hommage and give honor to what we call “Slovenian Christian heritage”. The late Father Prah, at one time prior of the Discalceate order, gave a concise description of the Slovenian heritage at the Mass celebrated in the Slovenian chapel on the first anniversary of its dedication: twelve hundred years of Christianity, very rich cultural inheritance, our enterprising spirit and love of hard work, which made possible in the new homeland to survive, depending solely on our own resources, but most significantly the complete devotedness to the Mother of God. The realization that we need Her help, and the faith in Her have always accompanied the Slovenian genius in the past, and they assure us a dedicated national life in the future.
It is certainly well founded a belief that our commemorative gatherings on Saturday, May 24 will be most successful when each community implements its own program. An Ad Hoc Committee has been formed in Washington consisting of members of the one time Coordination Committee for Slovenian Participation at the 41st Eucharistic Congress, of members of the Slovenian Heritage Committee, and with the most valuable counsel of Rev. Father Joseph Yelenc, the National Spiritual Director of KSKJ. Serving on this committee is Ms. Ivanka Antonin, a member of Br. 103,
Washington, D.C. The Committee will make available a suitable program, and groups wishing to request it should contact
Cyril J. Mejac
9509 Hale Street
Silver Spring, Md. 20910
Our original goal to set up audio and video communication among us could not materialize; yet, we would still wish and would appreciate it if we receive some kind of notification as to the form and extent the individual groups intend and will lake in this commemorative celebration of Saturday, May 24.
For the Committee: Cyril J. Mejac
Slovenian Patroness
by Fr. David Stalzer
More than 1200 years ago, the Slovenian people were one of the first Slavic groups to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Christian traditions. Part of that Christian tradition is a strong and venerable devotion to Mary, the mother of Jesus, the Son of God. For centuries now, the Slovenians have had a deep devotion to our Blessed Mother, as is evidenced in the beautiful Marian hymns and artistic renderings of Mary.
This year of 1986, marks the 10th anniversary of a resolution passed by our Slovenians attending the 41st Eucharistic Congress in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1976, which calls all Slovenes to observe every year the religious feast of Our Lady of Brezje (May 24) and with it to honor the Slovenian Christian heritage.
Also, this year marks the 15th anniversary of the dedication of the Slovenian Chapel at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The Chapel is dedicated to Our Lady of Brezje, the Patroness of the Slovenes.
How can we celebrate this feast day? First and foremost, we can reflect on the faith-life of Mary and try to immitate her total trust to the Will of God. We can pray to her for peace and for the needs of our world and personal intentions. We can especially pray the rosary. We can have a picture of Our Lady of Brezje in our homes. This could be an identifying mark of a Slovene home. If we have a Slovene parish in our community, we can check with the pastor to see if it could be possible to have the picture of Our Lady of Brezje to adorn the walls of our house of prayer and worship. This could be a gift from one of the societies. We can make a personal pilgrimage to the Shrine in Washington, D.C. or to the Franciscan Fathers Shrine in Lemont, II. Whatever we do, let us live and pray as Mary did. She said, “My whole being proclaims God’s greatness.”
There is a contoversial film playing in our country, called “Hail Mary”, let us combat this evil by our strong adherence to our Christian faith and devotion to Mary, our Mother. By our prayer and love, devotion to Our Lady of Brezje on May 24th of this year and every year, let us affirm God’s greatness.
Slovenians have a powerful intercessor in heaven, helping them here on earth, all the way to the hour of death. As she loves US, may we love and honor HER.
Our Lady of Brezje, Pray for us!
Marija Pomagaj, Prosi za nas!
MARY FROM STOPICE
“Oh, Stopiče, the place of my youth!
I can never forget you!''
Stopiče, located about four miles from Novo Mesto had everything you could want-a beautiful church, two schools, two stores, two taverns, two mills for grinding grain and four gendarmes for protection. The river that ran through the village was called the Težka Voda and it supplied not only our village with water but also that of Novo Mesto. There was also a dramatic club called the “Prosvetno (cultural) Društvo (Society)” which produced one or two stage plays every year, an event in which 1 enthusiastically participated. There was never a dull moment in our village because there was always so much to do.
My parents, Fran and Magdalena Štangelj, lived on one of the larger farms in the village and so it was necessary to hire people to help with the work in the fields. Life wasn’t easy for anyone then. We were under Austrian rule at that time.
I, Marija Štangelj, was born March 4, 1908, the only girl in the family. 1 had four brothers who always loved and protected me so when they eventually left home, 1 missed them terribly.
When I was born my father was living in the U.S. It was his third visit to America. When the stork brought me (that’s what they say) it was “Pust” or the day before Ash Wednesday. In Slovenia, “Pust” is celebrated in a big way and everyone has lots of fun masquerading. One of the traditions is to make a strawman and wheel him from house to house on a wagon teasing spinsters and young girls. The happy visitors are then treated with drinks and krofe (donuts). This clowning-around lasted the entire day. People still tease me stating that 1 am the way I am because I was born on Clown’s Day.
Special food was eaten on “Pust.” For supper we enjoyed ham, sauerkraut and piles of homemade donuts. There is a folk saying that if you didn’t eat sauerkraut on “Pust”, the wind would blow you away.
Well, my father was happy to see that his fourth child was a girl. He sent my mother $500 and told her to have a picture taken of his little Micka (my nickname) so that he could see his newborn daughter. But Mama was thrifty and bought a piece of land for the money. Land was precious in Slovenia. Father was angry and sent a
IRENE ODORIZZI:-2362 Paddock Lane Reston, Va. 22091
THE IMMIGRANT.
Mary Murn posed for this photo when she was about to leave for the U.S. in 1936, to join her husband who was already in America. She was twenty-eight years old at the time and had a seven year old son, Frankie.
S
I .
© Irene Planinšek Odorizzi
letter saying that if she wouldn’t send a picture of his daughter she wouldn’t see him again.
One Sunday, Mama took me to Novo Mesto to be photographed. She placed me on her lap but just as the photographer put his head under the black cover, I would start to scream. This happened three times. The fourth time Mama had enough and spanked me so much, my little behind was all red-at least that’s what she told me. The picture was finally taken and the result was one sniffling child and one angry mother. Every time I see the picture I laugh knowing that there was a time when the situation wasn’t funny at all.
Young children in Slovenia had to contribute to the family welfare by working. My first duties were helping Mama in the kitchen, washing clothes in the river and taking animals to pasture. We walked to the market place in Novo Mesto to sell our farm products once a week. I was Mama’s shadow. Wherever she went, I went.
Our entertainment was different from what young people enjoy today. Singing was the major entertainment. We all loved to sing because Mama was a choir member and taught us her love of music. We would all harmonize and passers-by would stop in the street to listen. Another form of pleasure was card games for adults and we children played “homemade” games.
Adults and children both had to work hard during summer, food-growing months, but winter eased our work a little and during that time we wove baskets, knitted and embroidered.
I don’t remember much about my father. He emigrated to the U.S. twice before 1 was born and left for the third and last time after I was born. What I have heard about him is that he was a smart and adventurous man. I do remember the beautiful doll he brought me from America. Girls usually played with rag dolls that were made at home so my doll was exceptional. One day we little girls gave her a bath in the pond and my beautiful doll lost her leg! Many tears were shed. The other incident that I recall about my father was his funeral. He was only forty-six years old when he died. How we all cried! The year was 1914, and that was also the time when my two older brothers, Franc and Joseph, were called into military service for the First World War. Those four years of war I remember very well; it was hard for us.
My brother, Louis, was two years old and my brother, Anton, was twelve years old when we were left
alone. I recall how during the war, the windows rattled from the cannons shooting, even though we were far away from the front lines.
There were many shortages during the war. 1 remember a dress I had made of paper cloth. It looked so real, black with white stripes, but it was very fragile. The dress had to be washed on a table with a brush, otherwise it would fall apart.
There was no paper in school on which to write. I wonder how we learned anything in those times. People didn’t have much of anything left after the city officials told them what they had to donate for the war which at this point had been in progress for four years. Farmers took food and buried it in the fields so they wouldn’t starve. We all suffered one way or another. My two brothers didn’t get hurt in action but the eldest was a Russian prisoner of war for eighteen months. Those awful years of war passed, too, and we had soon enough to wear and paper on which to write.
When I was seventeen years old, my dearest Mama died just when I needed her most. She was only forty-nine years old. I had to take over the housekeeping and cooking which wasn’t easy on me. My brother, Franc, was looking for a wife to take over the farm and I began to realize that boys started noticing me.
Frank Murn, who lived in a neighboring village, came and swept me off my feet. The Murn family had lived in the U.S. for twenty years and Frank, my future husband, was born in Calumet, Michigan. He was eight years old when the family of six children returned home to “vas Hrib, pošta Stopiče” in 1908. They were well-known, respectable people who had a nice homestead and farm. I was the envy of all the girls around. We were
The Murn Family portrait was taken in 1942 during World War II. They were lucky to be living in the U.S. rather than Slovenia, where the tragedy of war touched everyone and everything.
(Left to right) Frankie, 14, Frank, Mary and standing in the front holding her mother's hand is Mary Ann, also called Mimi, four years old.
Mamma and I had quite a time at the photographic studio when this picture was taken in 1910—seventy-six years ago. I was two years old and my brother Anton was six. Whenever the photographer placed his head under the black cloth, I became frightened and cried. After the fourth attempt at trying to photograph us, my mother had to teach me one of the bitter lessons in life. The spanking cured the crying but didn’t put smiles on anyone’s face.
married in 1927, but in 1929 my husband decided to leave Slovenia which had now encountered a period of depression, and travel to America where he would earn a better living and could eventually send for us.
Frank left me and our nine-month-old son in the care of his family, I was only twenty years old when he left, hoping to earn some money to pay the debts on the farm and then return. When he arrived in America, there was no work for him. The “Crash of 29” and the ensuing depression had crippled in the U.S. economy making it virtually impossible for anyone to obtain employment.
It would have been much harder for me to endure the separation from my husband if my mother-in-law wasn’t so nice and understanding. She was good to me and I loved her very much. Frank was lonely in America and wrote asking me to join him there, but I answered his letter stating, “I will never leave our nice home to live under a roof that is not my own.” Oh, how I ate those words!
After seven years, I became tired of being alone and working on the farm. I resolved that I would go to the U.S. Frank was so happy but his parents were saddened by my decision. They just couldn’t understand why I wished to leave. Grandmother Mum pleaded with me to leave little eight-year old Frankie with them. How could I? He was everything to me and I loved him so much. It was a sad August morning in 1936, when we said good-by. It was difficult to leave our home for a strange country but looking back now it was one of the wisest decisions that I ever made.
We had passage on the new French liner, Normandie. I never dreamt that any ocean liner could be so beautiful. The rose gardens, the golden chapel, the swimming pool, it was all indescribably beautiful. The Normandie was the fastest ship in 1936, and we crossed the Atlantic very pleasantly and quickly in only four and a half days. When the ship later burned down in New
York harbor due to sabotage, 1 cried because all that beauty was destroyed. War doesn’t care for beauty, does it?
I can’t forget an experience we had while waiting in the New York Railway Depot for the Milwaukee train. Frankie, my son, noticed that everyone was eating and chewing. He questioned me about it. I looked around and it was true. All those people were eating and they never stopped eating! The puzzling thing was that they never put anything into their mouths! Later, I asked my husband to please tell me why these people were eating all the time. There was a big laugh from everyone and they explained “chewing gum” to me. I thought it was just gruesome, but in a few years, Frankie and I also chewed gum.
On our train ride from New York to Milwaukee, I was disappointed by the view from the train window: little wooden houses that were not cared for, cans and garbage were scattered all around the houses and in some places, people were sitting on the steps doing nothing. In Slovenia, we were always busy on our farms but still found time every Saturday to scrub our house and sweep outdoors. These people were just sitting around, looking at the dirt rather than cleaning it up. My first opinion of America was not favorable. I regretted leaving our home before ever arriving at my destination. When the train finally arrived, I didn’t even care to get off; I felt like continuing on to some other destination.
When 1 saw my husband, after being separated for seven years, he looked stronger and healthier. 1 was twenty years old when he left me with a nine-month old little boy. Now, I was twenty-eight and saw life with different eyes, not those of a happy young girl. It didn’t take long to get reacquainted with Frank again. He was such a happy, friendly fellow anyway. It wasn’t long before I started to enjoy living in Milwaukee and learned to love America. We enjoyed a nice family life and when our daughter was born I felt like the whole world was mine, 1 was so happy.
We returned to visit our beautiful Slovenia a number of times. One sad experience 1 recall from our trip in 1952, was when we traveled on the Queen Elizabeth with a nice group of people, among them Mrs. Kovačič from Chicago, III. She was a lovely lady and were were very friendly but her health wasn’t good. One day she became ill and they put her in the ship’s hospital. I felt sorry for her and visited her often as she was very comfortable with me. If I missed a visit, someone would come and tell me she was asking for me. When we docked in Cherbourg, her health wasn’t improved so they placed her in a hospital there. About a week later I read in the newspaper that she had died in Cherbourg and that her two sons had taken her body back to America. On our arrival in Ljubljana, Mrs. Kovačič’s relatives were expecting her and were disappointed when told she was left behind in a hospital. Later, her two sons visited me in Milwaukee, eager to know about their mother, her illness during that voyage, and her parting words. None of us ever thought she would die. We all expected her to arrive in Slovenia at a later date.
Oh, our poor land, what terrible condition you were in after World War II! We were happy to find Frank’s mother alive at the age of eighty-one. Our trip was successful for that reason alone. Frank wanted to see his mother once more and that is why we traveled to Slovenia.
My two brothers survived ordeals in concentration camps. The oldest brother was taken to Leipzig concentration camp where he was freed by the American Army. He was just skin and bones from starvation but I was happy to see him alive. Fortunately, two brothers had left Slovenia before the war; one left for Argentina
Frank and Mary Murn celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at a Mass and reception, Sunday, April 24,
1977.
and the other went to France so they were spared those horrible days of war and revolution. Our reunion was such a happy event.
The war also took its toll on our house in Slovenia. It didn’t have any glass in the windows and looked old and beaten. I was scared to death to sleep in the same room where Frank and I first slept when I was a young bride. We had always planned to return to our homestead, but when I saw it again, I swore I would remain in the United States and that it would be our permanent home. Yes, we would return to Slovenia again, but only to visit, which we did four times. Returning to our home in America at the end of each trip was always such a joy.
I must relate another interesting experience that happened on one of my trips. I met a woman 1 had known in Slovenia as a girl, fifty years prior. On the plane trip to Europe, I overheard two women speaking in Slovenian. When I asked where they were going one replied, “Stopiče”. She told me she was born in a neighboring village, but used to work in Stopice for Alena Stangelj for some years. I will never forget her look when 1 told her I was Micka Stangelj. She was so surprised and said, “Oh, my God, what are you doing here? You were so little when I worked at your house.” She kissed me over and over. We were both so thrilled and happy to meet again after all those years.
Now, my three children have grown into adulthood. The eldest son, Frank, has been practicing law for thirty years. He is a Municipal Judge in New Berlin, Wisconsin. Our youngest son, Victor, attended Technical College and is an Electronics Technician. Our daughter, Mary Ann, is a Medical Technologist.
Life in America is beautiful and we love our Wisconsin. My husband of fifty-seven years is still healthy and we have a wonderful life together, but not without disappointments and some grief like every other family. We have eight grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. I have been a member of the Slovenian Women’s Union for forty-four years and have written articles for Branch No. 17 in West Allis, Wis. Some of my poems have been published in ZARJA.
After raising my children and watching my grandchildren grow, I now have some time for myself, and enjoy writing poetry, knitting and crocheting. But my dearest love is my flower garden which is a special pleasure, after a long Wisconsin winter. Traveling is another pleasure and if God permits, I hope to enjoy more of it. I’m especially grateful to God for all He has given us, especially close ties and abundant love in our family. We never lost it and I pray my family never will after we are gone. To us it is a precious thing.
Mary Murn
Nebeški materi
Duh se dviga mi v višave,
Kraljici maja poje A ve.
Daj, da enkrat bi vesela s Teboj v nebesih pesmi pela.
Ko sem padla, oh, Ti dobra mati, pomagala si mi zopet vstati.
Si	za roko me vodila in pravo pot si mi odkrila.
Če mi noga mi zdrsnila Ti si padca me rešila.
Odkrivala sem Ti svoje želje, vse nadloge in veselje.
Mati, vodi me po pravi poti, da skušnjava mene več ne zmoti. Prostor zame Ti pripravi, da se snideva v nebeški slavi,
Kakor danes v tem krasnem maju naj prepevam Ti v nebeški slavi.
Oh, Ti milostna devica,
Manja Pomagaj pri Slovencih v Argentini	nebes	jn	zem,je	si Kra,jica
EVHARISTIČNI KONGRES V FILADELFIJI IN BREZJANSKA MARIJA
Gotovo so še močni spomini mogočnosti in mnogih lepot Evharističnega Kongresa v Filadelfiji pred desetimi leti med tistimi, ki so bili navzoči pri slovesnostih. Slovenci, ki smo bili tam, smo ponesli s seboj še nekaj več: zaobljubo, ki naj bi vključila Slovence vsepovsod in ki nas vabi, da: Vsako leto, na predvečer praznika Marije iz Brezij, ki varuje slovenski narod in slovenska izročita v svetu, to je 23. maja zvečer, bomo v svojih domovih prižgali sveče in preživeti večer v mislih na krščanska izročila, ki so stoletja vodila naš rod v domovini in oblikujejo danes nas v svetu in po nas narode, med katerimi živimo. Vabimo Slovence v domovini in vse rojake slovenskega izročila v svetu, da se nam pridružijo.
Slovensko časopisje je redno, če tudi ne v celoti, vsako leto ob prazniku Brezjanske Marije 24. maja opominjalo na obljubo iz Philadelphije. Ne z velikimi črkami, a dosledno še prav posebej ljubljanska Družina. Lemontska Ave Marija je letos že zgodaj napovedala skupno počeščenje Marije z Brezij v smislu naše zaobljube v Philadelphiji.
Skupno počeščenje Brezjanske Marije za njen praznik 24. maja, vsaj letos za 10. obletnico Evharističnega Kongresa, je tudi posebnost, ki bi jo radi uresničili ali začeli. Prav letos je praznik Brezjanske Marije na soboto 24. maja — nekoč celo dan, ko naj dobi povsod Božja Mati posebno čast (Marijine votivne maše).
Slovenci v Ameriki, čeprav ne živimo v
zaokroženih naseljih, smo le v procejšnjem številu povezani v slovenska občestva, farne skupnosti, slovenske organizacije ali samo prijateljske krožke. Zberimo se ta dan, 24. maja zvečer, in skupno praznujmo ali se poklonimo skupaj temu, kar imenujemo "slovenska krščanska dediščina”. Le
—	to je pokojni g. Prah na kratko opisal takole ob praznovanju prve obletnice posvetitve slovenske kapele:	Dvanajst stoletij krščanstva, bogata
kulturna dediščina, duh podjetnosti in veselje do dela, ki sta omogočila, da so naši ljudje v novi domovini obstali in si celo opomogli do zmernega blagostanja, na prvem mestu pa naša predanost in ljubezen do Marije in pa zavest, da nas je njena priprošnja in njena pomoč vedno spremljala v preteklosti in nam bo zagotovala tako versko kot narodno bodočnost.
Naša spominska zborovanja bodo verjetno najbolj uspešna, če vsaka skupina sledi svojemu lastnemu programu. Smo pa v Washingtonu osnovali priložnostni odbor, ki ga sestavljajo nekdanji člani Odbora za Slovensko Udeležbo na Evharističnem Kongresu v Philadelphiji. Na tem odboru je tudi članica SŽZ v Washingtonu, gdč. Ivanka Antolin.
Odbor bo imel na raspolago primerem program, če ga katera skupina želi. Obrnite se na:
Cyril J. Mejač 9509 Hale Street Silver Spring, Md. 20910
p. Atanazij Lovrenčič, ofm:
Za Marijin mesec maj!
Materinski dan
Samo en pogled čez drn in strn nam priča o novem življenju, ki nam prinaša mesec maj. Narava se je odela v novo obleko cvetja in zelenjave; petje ptic se sliši z dreves in otroci, ki so bili več ali manj zaprti v hiši skozi mrzle zimske dneve, skačejo in se valijo po travi. In prav v tem mesecu novega življenja se spominjamo svoje matere. Mati nam je bila tista oseba h kateri smo se zatekali v veselju, še posebno pa v žalosti; ko smo mislili, da se vse podira okoli nas, ona je bila tista, ki nas je prepričala, da se bo vse dobro izteklo. Kot nam vzgojitelji zagotavljajo, veliko odvisi od staršev, v kako pot se bo otrok usmeril v življenju. Vsaka oseba ima svoj vpliv na mlado srce, posebno mati ima še posebno velik vpliv na svoje otroke. Časi se danes spreminjajo; z veliko dobrim, ki nam prinaša današnji svet, je tudi veliko slabega. Danes vidimo kako matere gredo za delom, da prinesejo potreben denar za družino, a pri tem puščajo svoje otroke v tujih rokah; ni čudno, da so otroci, ko dorastejo velikokrat razočaranje svojim staršem. Mi vsi se še spominjamo svojih mater, katerih poklic je bil; materinstvo, čigar največja dolžnost je bila vzgoja otrok, čigar čast so bili dobro vzgojeni otroci!
Ko se svet zvija v krčih svojih lastnih grehov in zmot, nam materinski dan prinaša veselo oznanilo namreč, da po dobrih materah marsikaj se lahko spremeni. Kjer vse odpove, tam mati z živo vero vstopi na obzorje, in priča svetu, da ni vse izgubljeno. Materinski dan nam daje upanje, da bodo naše matere z božjo pomočjo dale zopet naši družbi otroke, ki bodo rastli v može in žene, ki se ne bodo branili zavihati svoje rokave in začeti graditi, kar je bilo porušeno v zadnjih dvajsetih letih.
Po spominu napisala T. Ferraccioli - Cleveland, Ohio
Marija na Sveti gori pri Gorici
Marija na Sveti gori pestu/e dete Jezusa.
Marija na Sveti gori: gospa Slovencev pozdravljena!
Marija se k Jezuščku skloni in mu govori v večer: “Častijo me sin moj, milijoni: a kakor Slovenci nikjer."
“Kaj dal jim boš za plačilo, tem mojim slovenskim ljudem;
Jezušček moj, odgovori svoji materi Mariji!"
“Kaj dal bi jim za plačilo tem Tvojim slovenskim ljudem ?
To milost: naj v zemlji svoji dobijo povsod, da do konca dni ne premine njih rod."
Marija na Sveti gori pestuje dete Jezusa;
Marija na Sveti gori: Gospa nebeška pozdravljena! Marija na Sveti gori, srce slovensko dobro pozna.
Ko sem bila še majhna, komaj sem začela hoditi v šolo, sem nekje dobila majhno povestno knjižico. V njej je bilo veliko napisanega o čudežih in o romarjih, ki so hodili na Sveto goro. Prav v tej knjižici sem našla zgoraj napisano pesmico, katero sem se prav kmalu naučila na pamet. Od tega časa je preteklo že kar 50 let, a pesmica mi je ostala v trajnem spominu. Šla je z menoj po svetu, kamor sva šla skupaj s sinom. Pozneje mi je pisala moja pokojna mama tole: “Sem šla na Sveto goro prosit za vajino srečno pot." Tako se je moja mama žrtvovala, da se je podala na tako pot, na visoko goro, čeprav je bila že stara. Zmagala je ljubezen. Ljubezen materina nima meja.
Včasih sem čuta starejše ljudi govoriti o kakšni dobri materi, ki je ostala sama po smrti moža in tudi sama skrbela za otroke. Ali pa se je kje ponesrečil, ali ga je vzela bolezen? Ona se je mučila, da je preživela svoje črvičke, otročičke. Pa tudi to se je zgodilo, da so otroci na njena stara leta mater svojo zaničevali, niso skrbeli zanjo in da je reva uboga v revščini nazadnje umrla.
Poznala sem velikega kmeta, ki je ostal dolga leta samski. Mati je bila stara, ko se je hotel ženiti, pa mu ni pustila. Sem pozneja čuta, da je sin nato svojo zelo staro mater tudi pretepal, dočakala je kar 100 let. Njegova zaročenka pa se je drugam poročila — dve uri daleč. Dobila si je zelo dobrega moža, a usoda ne pusti marsikomu dolge sreče. Prišla je vojna vihra, ki ji je vzela dobrega moža. Slišala sem, da je zelo žalovala za svojim prvim fantom, da ni šla nikamor. Samo svoje kravice je peljala na pašo in se tam jokala. Ko je zgubila svojega moža, je ostala sama s tremi otroci.
Veliko dobrega so storile naše zlate mamice!
Z Marijino pomočjo in njeno in našo ljubeznijo lahko tudi me marsikaj dobrega storimo za naše otroke.
T. Ferraccioli 41
D 0	P I	S I	
ŠT. 3, PUEBLO, CO
Pri naši podružnici smo članice izbrale ženo leta, njen naslov je Rose Ursick - dekliško ime Gorsich, - katero poznamo kot delavno članico in skrbno ženo. Bog ju ni obdaril z narastkom v družini. Z možem sta večkrat obiskala možev rojstni kraj ■ lepo zeleno Štajersko in sorodnike v Jugoslaviji. Od Rose, sedaj že pokojni oče John Gorsich je bil eden prvih Slovencev v Pueblo, ki je pričel s prodajalno - Grocery-z jestvinami. Gospa Rose je že 52 let članica naše podružnice. Vse ji častitamo za izredno čast.
Vsem materam naše Zveze vse najboljše za njihov dan, našim pokojnim pa blag spomin in molitve zanje.
Naša podružnica je bolj na mrtvi točki za nove članice, za predsednico, tajnico in druge odbornice. Vaša skrb mlajših je, da nadomestite z novimi. Ko kakšna članica umrje ali izstopi od Zveze, pridobite mlada dekleta, ki so naš doprinos za bodočnost Zveze. Ponovno smo smrtno izgubile našo članico Magie Jamnik; smrt ji je na hitro vzela nit življenja. Izražamo globoko sožalje preostalim.
Najlepše častitke za Mothers day vsem materam - zlasti onim v podružnici 92 v Gunnison, Colo. Njihova podružnica jim je v ponos in v razvedrilo. Zelo so aktivne na sejah kakor kažejo poročila. So zavedne članice, za “good work” pri pridobitvi novih članic. Ste zelo brihtne v vseh ozirih in: good luck! Podružnica 63 v Cannon City, Colo. je tiho, od nje ni nobega glasu, iz Puebla smo oddaljene 40 milj. Znano mi je, da je predsednica Christine Konte v bolnem stanju. Mary Chesnik se včasih meni oglasi, da mi potoži, kako ji “artrajdes” nagaja. Je tudi v zreli starosti, a je zelo gibčna v pogovorih. Happy Mothers day podružnici 63
-	bodite vse zdrave in vesele! Vaš obisk bo meni zelo dobrodošel. Le korajžo!
MAJNIŠKI KRALJICI —
šmarnice darujem
V krilo nedolžnosti ste se odele majske cvetlice šmarnice bele.
Z rajske grede vas je Ona poslala, ki med cvetlicami sama je zala.
Z rajsko vodico vam Ona zaliva, zjutraj pred soncem vam lice umiva.
Rastite, rastite majniške cvetke, da počastite našo Mater - kraljico.
Marie Beck
Od februarja meseca naprej imamo pri nas že kar pomladansko vreme. Drevesa so v cvetju, kakor marelice; raznovrstne cvetlice tudi. Ko to pišem, je po vrtovih vse v cvetju -kras prirode.
Topla zahvala odbornicam glavnega odbora S,Ž,Z za letno sejo.
Globoko sočustvujemo s starši od Edwarda in Anne Yaklich, katerih sina so zlobne roke s orožjem smrtno končale. Dva mladoletna brata sta obsojena kot morilca; sodba se nadaljuje za nedoločen čas. Pokojni Denies Yaklich je bil zaposlen na Police Force in zelo spoštovan med sodelavci. To je žalostna zgodba umora, naše mesto občuti izgubo. Ob času pogreba je domači časopis poročal, da je bil Denies-ov pogrebni sprevod največji, kar jih je naše mesto doživelo. Bog mu daj najlepši prostor v nebesih zaradi prerane smrti. Mogoče bom še pozneje poročala, kako se bo ta zamotana stvar končala. - Prijateljica je bila na obisku v domovini. Jamrala je takole: “Jemnasta ja, kako so se časi spremenili. Tri tedne sem po vsej Dolenjski in po Ljubljani obiskovala sorodnike, pa nikjer niso prišli žganci na mizo.” Nekdaj so se otroci tepli za
pisker, kjer so se žganci kuhali. Kdo bo pisker postrgal? Žganci so bili naša najboljša jed. Članice, katere ste tudi obiskale domovino, opišite tudi ve, kakšno življenje je sedaj tam! Upamo, da je na boljši stopnji tudi na kmetih.
Ponovno blagoslovljen materinski dan! Vsem materam, posebno še članicam S. Ž.Z.!
Hello ge. Schlosar za njen 95 rojstni dan! Prav tako pozdrav Anni Purkat tam v Minnesoti in odbornicam naše Zveze!
ANNA PACHAK
ŠT. 17, WEST ALLIS, Wl
Hvala Bogu, zima je za nami. Priroda se je zbudila zopet v življenje. Vse hvali Odrešenika, da nam je dal milost živlejnja.
V	lepem mesecu maju bomo počastile našo častno mater leta 1986. Izvolile smo go. Ano Gasperič, zaslužno članico št. 17. Častitamo ti Ann! Vse častne matere preteklih let ste posebno vabljene na to sejo 18. maja! Želimo, da bi bila udeležba velika. Servirale bomo izvrsten lunch -ne bo nobeni žal, ako se boste potrudile. To bo dan naših mater. Pokličite tajnico Joan - t.št. 545-3716 ali pa predsednico Marion -t.št.:	327-3871.	Kakor	v
preteklosti tudi sedaj trkamo na vaša dobra srca za pecivo, za katerega smo vam že vnaprej hvaležne. Nobene seje ne bo v juniju, juliju in ne v avgustu. Sejo bomo imele šele 21. septembra ob 2. uri popoldne kakor po navadi. Za vedno nas je zapustila dolgoletna članica Louise Mayer. Umrla je na hitro od bolezni srca -Bog ji bodi dober plačnik. Izražamo globoko sožalje njenemu soprogu Norbertu ter sestram Josephini in Mary Zajc. Ne pozabite State Convention v Sheboyganu. Ako se nameravate udeležiti, pokličite tajnico ali predsednico.
Želim vsem lepe počitnice ter se septembra zopet vse navdušeno udeležite seje v dobrobit S. Ž.Z. Pridite! Ne pozabimo umrlih! Bolnim vse želimo skorajšnje zdravje!
Iskrene pozdrave!
MARY MURN
ŠT. 68, FAIRPORT HRB. OH
To leto je zgodaj Velikonočno praznovanje., vstajenje od mrtvih vstalega Zveličarja. Po koledarju od 22. marca smo že v pomladanskem času. Oh, ta čas nezarensko hiti, zdi se nam, da so ravnokar minuli božični prazniki, in že opazimo, da se že ptice selivke vračajo iz toplih krajev in nam v zgodnjih urah že prepevajo in žvrgolijo po drevju. In danes je krasen pomladanski dan, saj je toplomer skočil na 75° F. Vpar dneh pa nam napovedujejo dež. Čeprav smo ga imeli več kot preveč, pa ta dež bi nam koristil, izplaknil bi vso umazanijo po cestah in po travnikih, ker so skoro vsak dan potresali cesto z neko umazano in s soljo pomešano mešanico. Tako, da bomo kar zadovoljni s pohlevnim dežjem. Seveda bo treba grablje v roke vzeti, da se počisti zimsko navlako. Že se prebujajo in iz zemlje se šopirijo v liste zgodnje cvetlice čebulnice, kot so tulipani, hijacinte, narcisi, zvončki in pridružujejo se jim tudi drobne trobentice in nam oznanjajo zaželjeno pomlad.
Ta mesec je bila pri naši prodružnici letos prva seja in še kar dobro obiskana. Predsednica Rosi Bradač je sejo odprla z molitvijo, nato je šlo pa vse po vrsti kot mora biti na seji. Enoglasno je bila izvoljena za mater leta Malči Južna, Več bo v angleškom dopisu. Gostiteljica tega večera je bila, naša tajnica Fany Ulle in je postregla z zelo dobrim pecivom, Nato pa kartne igre.
Vesele smo, da v tem času nas ni obiskala tist bela žena s koso, ker se včasih pritihotapi kar v nočnih urah in nepričakovano na hitro odpravi svoje delo. Ona nič ne izbira, brez usmiljenja pobira. Pregovor pravi; Smrt ni za gorami, temveč za našim hrbtom. In tudi pravijo: kdor Išče pravico, naj gre le na pokopališče.
Jennie Mohorčič zelo pogrešamo na naših sejah, ona se še vedno nahaja v domu počitka. Draga Jennie, iz srca Vam želimo ljubega zdravja, in da nas boste enkrat presenetila na seji. V molitvi se Vas spomin-
jamo, da bi Vam ljubi Bog povrnil ljubega zdravja. To so želje vseh nas članic od podružnice od št. 68. Dobro vemo, da ste v najboljši oskrbi.
Maj - mesec je najlepši izmed vseh v letu. Posvečen je pa nebeški materi Mariji. In istem namenu vsem mamicam.
Pri naši farni cerkvi v Painesville smo bili povabljeni na ogled po T.V., prikazovanja Božje Matere v Medžugorju v Jugoslaviji. Poprej zapuščenem kraju, in sedaj izgleda kot park Marijinega svetišča, vse v cvetju in obljudeno z božjepotniki-romarji. Kakor so nam povedali, se tukaj po Ameriki organizirajo skupine, da bodo poromale na to božjo pot.
Katere boste obhajale v maju rojstne dneve so naslednje: Hervatin Edith, Kapel Mary, Kutty Adeline, Mary Modic, Jennie Mohorčič in Josephine Ulle. Vam želimo iskrene častitke k Vašim rojstnim dnevom in Bog Vas živi, da bi jih obhajale še mnogo let zdrave in vesele. To so želje od vseh članic v naši podružnici.
V	juniju Zarja ne bo izšla, naslednja bo v juliju.
Pa še nekaj domislic:
1) Bolj, ko se staramo, bolj se mlajšajo naše napake.
2) Bog pomaga vsakemu od nas s tem, kar imamo.
3) Delo nam gladi pot k sreči, daje nam zaupanje v Boga in sebe, odvrača nas od mnogih nespamestnosti, in nas obda s čistim zdravim zrakom, katerega hitro okuži lenoba.
Hotela sem zaklučiti ta dopis in - žalostna novica. Telefon pozvoni. Končala je življensko pot v trpljenju in zaupanju v božjo voljo Jennie Mohorčič na veliki petek ob 10. uri dopoldan v bolnici v Painesville. V maju bi ji bilo 85 let starosti. Bog ji bodi milostljiv in pravičen sodnik in plačnik za vse njena dobra dela. Lahka naj ji bo Ameriška zemlja. Sinu Tonitu Satej in njegovi družini naše iskreno sožalje.
Že nekaj let, tukaj v našem mestu pri St. Mary cerkvi, imamo blagoslovitev žegna, velikonočne jestvine na veliko soboto dopoldan in popoldan. Kako je
bila ponosna naša pokojna članica Jennie Lagina ob pripovedovanju, da je ona to sporožila pri duhovnikih, da naj tudi tukaj blagoslovijo žegen, ker to je zgodovinski katoliški običaj. Ker je to spomin na Jezusa Križanega. Kolač pomeni Jezusova krona, hrenove korenine žeblje, jajca golobčke; nakateri priložijo tudi vino in vse te jestvine, ko je Jezus nasitil lačne. In opazujemo, da je vsako leto več žegnov v cerkvi. Saj prinesejo to kar cela družina, starša in še otroci z njima. Tako hočejo dobri starši, da ko njih generacija odraste, obdržati ta lepi običaj.
Pa zaklučujem ta moj dopis z željo, da Vas drage čitateljice naše Zarje, doseže zdrave, vesele in zadovoljne.
Z iskrenimi pozdravi,
JULKA KLAMMER
ŠT. 100, FONTANA, CA
Maj je že tukaj. Vsem materam prav lepe častitke za materinski dan. Tukaj v Fontani smo članice izvolile za mater leta Mary Lou Vidergar. Kakor vsako leto bomo tudi sedaj imele POT-LUCK večerjo. To bo prvi četrtek v maju. Prosim članice, da pridete. Če je le kaj mogoče, naj vsaka nekaj prinese; tako bomo imele prav dobro večerjo.
Želim zdravja vsem bolnim članicam: te so Mrs. Novak in Rose Krajnik in še nekaj drugih. Videla sem v cerkvi Mary Železnikar, hčere so jo pripeljale na Wheel Chair. Kako lepo skrbijo zanjo! Mary Kovačič je prodala hišo in se preselila v Slovene Rest Home. Mary, sedaj ti ne bo treba več zalivat in delat okrog hiše. Upam pa, da boš še lahko delala Apple Strudel.
April, 13-bomo imele sv. mašo pri St. Joseph cerkvi in obhajilo, da napravimo velikonočno dolžnost. Potem pa gremo skupaj za kasni fruštik. Tukaj pošiljam $10.00 - dar listu ZARJA od mene v spomin na mojo sestro Frances Kovačič, ki je umrla 9. januarja v Clevelandu.
Pozdrv vsem članicam!
JEAN KURILICH, poročevalka
Josip Jurčič
DESETI BRAT
Roman
Ilustriral MAKSIM GASPARI
TRETJE POGLAVJE
(NADALJEVANJE)
»Boste videli, gospod učenik,« spregovori Manica, »da pri nas ni tako dolgočasno življenje, kakor si morda mislite in kakor se vam je na prvi pogled zdelo. Sosebno ker ste po noči prišli, niste videli, kako lepo okolico imamo. Tukaj pri nas se boste učili lehko naravo in ljudi spoznavati; zakaj po mojih mislih je malokje toliko originalnih nevsakdanjih značajev, ko v našem okrožju. Če Bog da, privadili se boste tako našega življenja, da ostanete tudi več ko dve leti.«
»Beži no, Manica!« dejal je Marijan, ki je bil med tem kakor doma veliko pipo izvlekel in tobak napravil, ne vprašaje za nikako dovoljenje, in vstal, »misliš, da je gospod Kvas — tako se menda pišete, če sem prav razumel — ravno tak ko ti, da se mu bo ljubilo cele ure poslušati neumnega brnjavsa desetega brata ali pa Krjavlja tiste prazne kvasiti ali tiste nore pesmi peti ali kamenoskega Matijca ogledovati, kako v leščevju sedi in nič ne govori, beži! Midva bova rajša hodila rakov lovit, zajcev gonit, lisjaka čakat. Pa se bomo že še zmenili, deset je ura. Lehko noč!«
Rekši odide Marijan. Lovre je iz vsega predomačega obnašanja mladeničevega sodil, da je najbrž Maničin ženin, dasiravno se je čudil, kako nasprotno mišljenje se vidi med njima. Ni si mogel reči, da bi mu bil mladenič povšeči, zato tudi precej za prvega ni imel pravega sočutja do njega. Bil je malo v zadregi, ko ga je gospa vprašala, kako mu kaj sosed dopada.
Govorica se je pletla še nekaj časa o raznih rečeh. Po večerji pak, katero je bila nova njegova gospodinja hitro zanj pripravila, razšla se je družina spat in Lovre je dobil prijazno sobo z razgledom na vrt. Svoje reči je našel že tam. Dasiravno truden, vendar ni šel popred spat, preden ni uredil in razložil knjig in obleke, katerega vsega blaga žalibog ni imel veliko. Izbica in pohištvo je bilo preprosto, ali Lovro še v svojem življenju ni imel tako prijaznega in prijetnega stanovanja.
Premišljevaje razne skušnje in dogodke današnjega dneva, uleže se v mehko posteljo s sladkim občutkom trudnega človeka, ki je dan preživel popolnoma zadovoljen z njegovim koncem. Komaj nekaj ur popred so ga še obhajale bridke misli, tožil je nad svojo usodo, ki mu ni dala veliko več ko revščino, ki ga je drevila že blizu od praga njegovih željž k tujim ljudem, — in zdaj je bil srečen, kajti vedel je, da so ti tuji ljudje dobri, e davno je bil opravil svojo kratko večerno molitev, pa zaspati ni mogel, težko ga je stalo misliti nocoj na milo svojo staro mamico in na Boga; razne podobe, katere je po dnevi imel pred očmi, vrstile
so se mu v spominu. Zdravnik Vencelj, posamezni udje grajske družine, miloglasne besede Maničine, prelepa njena podoba — ah, kako srečen mora biti ta Marijan, ki je menda ženin njen — čudna prikazen deseti brat, njegove proročne besede — vse se je mladeniču čudno čudno vrtelo po glavi, in ko je naposled zadremal, vezale so se te misli v čudne, sladke sanje.
Ko se je Lovre drugo jutro zbudil, bil je velik dan. Solnce je prijazno sijalo skoz njegovo okno. Čudil se je, kako da je tako trdno in dolgo spal, kar ni bila sicer njegova navada. »Ljudje si bodo mislili, da sem Bog ve kak zaspanec in nemarnež,« dejal je in naglo na noge skočil. Ura je bila že osem. Obleko je našel očejeno in pripravljeno. Hitro se opravi in odpre okno.
Zdaj šele je mogel natančneje ogledati kraj in lego gradu, svojega novega stanovanja.
Slemenice so stale na nizki višini. Vrt z gostim sadjem prerasel, katerega je sinoči le napol videl, razprostiral se je po rebri posebno lepo na južno stran. Precej za vrtom pa se je začel travnik ob obeh plateh malega potoka, ki se je daleč po vedno ožji dolini med vrbovimi grmi vil in bleščal v jutranjem solncu. Tudi velika samotna lipa, ki je ponosno na samem raztezala široko razrasle veje, dala se je s strani zapaziti. Konci dolgega žleba se je potok nalival v širok ribnjak, ki je bil malemu jezeru podoben. Na obe plati ribnjaka pa se je vzdigovala strmina, na desni strani gosto prerasla, na levi pa gola, kamenita tja do vasice, ki se je, na vzvišenini stoječa, okolici kaj lepo podajala. Med gradom in vasjo je bila majhna podružna cerkvica z ograjenim pokopališčem, katero so bili nekdanji slemeniški gospodje postavili. Proti vzhodu čez vrt in čez travnik pak je Kvas videl posamno večje domovje; vendar ker je stalo tik hoste in se ni videlo veliko iz drevja, zato ni mogle razsoditi, ali je hiša premožnega kmečkega moža ali pa gradič. Visoki mecesni in redno nasajene lipe so kazale na gradič. To je bil Polesek. Ko je tako skozi okno gledal, zapazil je desetega brata, bosega in opravljenega ko včeraj, ki je izza konjskih hlevov prignal konja,
katerega je on včeraj jezdil. Imel je veliko batino v roki, in ker je konj počasno stopal, vsipaval ga je neusmiljeno prek reber po dolgem. Prišedši mimo okna je zagledal Kvasa, namežikal z očmi, na čuden smeh široka usta raztegnil in zavpil: »Dali so mi gospod, da bom zver tiral Peharčku nazaj, hi! Pa ta božja stvar tako hodi ko polž na vlaku. Krjavlju jo bom dal na popravo, tako-le!« Pri zadnji besedi zopet loputne z gorjačo po konju. Kvas ni vedel, ali bi se smejal ali jezil nad neusmiljenim človekom, katerega je še nekaj časa z očmi lovil.
Stara hišna je pokukala v izbico in videča, da je vstal, poklicala ga k zajutrku, ki ga mu je na mizo postavila. Obenem mu je pravila, da so drugi že zunaj, »gospod pri ljudeh, ki češplje tresejo na gornjem vrtu, gospa na sušilni jami in gospica doli po vrtu hodijo.«
Četrt ure potem je bil tudi Kvas na vrtu. Naproti mu pride Manica. Danes se mu je še veliko lepša zdela. Voščil ji je dobro jutro in ona ga je vprašala, kako mu kaj dopada na Slemenicah, kako je kaj spal in druge čisto navadne reči, na katere je Lovre rajši odgovarjal ko dostikrat na še tako važne. Precej pri tem razgovoru pak je čutil, da ima gospodična nekaj v sebi, kar jo veliko više postavlja, in ravno zato je bilo vse njegovo obnašanje skoro nekako boječe. Gospodična je to menda sprevidela, kajti govorila je ž njim kakor s starim znancem prosto in domače.
Ob to prijetno druščino pripravi Kvasa človek, ki mu je bil dozdaj še neznan, ki je pa naravnost iz grada prišel in moral biti torej domač.
»Glejte, tu prihaja naš stric Dolef,« reče Manica, in ko se je mož približal, dejala je: »Stric, to so gospod Kvas, naš učenik.«
Novi prišlec je bil precej prileten in suh ko sama kost. Po vsem svojem zunanjem opravku ni bil nikakor podoben, da bi bil ud grajske družine. Po špičastem, koščenem obradku so rastle zapuščene in zastarane ščetine, katere so zmršene in nerazčesane pričale, da je lastnik imel jih samo zato, ker je bil prezanemaren, da bi je bil obril. Čelo vrhu globoko ležečih, mrečih oči bilo je visoko ga nagrbančeno, kolikor se je dalo razvideti izpod nekdaj belega, zdaj pa orumenelega in raztlačenega slamnika in ravno tako razkuštranih, sem ter tja že osivelih, dolgih las. Obleka ni določila, ali je gospod Dolef star krojač ali rokodelski popotnik, kakršnega na veliki cesti srečaš z oprašeno culo na plečih, ali drugi deseti brat. Oguljena suknja, na komolcih že skoraj votla, zapeta do brade, segala je komaj do tistega ne imenljivega telesnega dela, kateri pri sedežu in tepežu največ trpi. Hlače so bile dolge, ozke in na drobnih, koščenih nogah vendar še preohlapne, zlasti od spodaj, kjer so se rjavih črevljev dotikale, blatne in s peto pohojene.
»Salve, prijatelj, ste prišli + No dobro, da ste prišli. Midva se bova šele kaj zmenila, dva študioza, eden mlad, eden star. Deklina le pojdi, ti ne razumeš nič tega, kar se midva lehko meniva.«
Rekši izvleče iz žepa malo kmečko pipico in zamazan mehur tobaka in si jo natlači. Manica odide po vrtu, popred pa nekako smeje se pogleda Lovreta, ki je strmeč gledal tega moža in ni vedel, kako bi odgovoril; ni vedel, ali je prav razumel ali ne,
ko je dejala: »Tu prihaja naš stric.«
»No, vidim se vam kakor kak »vacuus viator«, kakor Latinec pravi, ne vem že kateri, ali Ovidij ali Vergilj ali Horacij. Pa to nič ne de, če človek dolgo živi, vse mu pride v koš. Včasi smo bili že drugi ljudje, dfuimus Troes«, veselo smo živeli, pili in peli, da nikdar tega, in Adolf, svojega očeta drugi sin, ki bi bil imel tolar vrh glave vrezan dobiti in črn talar, ni bil zadnji. Pa zdaj so vse tiste urice k niču. Povejte mi, moj tovariš, kaj bo iz vas, kam se boste obrnili, ko ste filozofijo in fiziko dognali?«
»Ne vem še, nism se še določil,« odgovori Kvas.
»V seminar ne?« vpraša stric Dolef in tlečo gobo v tobak potakne.
»Najbrž da ne.«
»Pa zakaj ne? Glejte, ko bi se jaz ne bil premislil in bi bil to, kar so moj rajnki oče menili, da bom, bil bi zdaj ves drugačen trebušček izredil, kakor je ta-le. Dekan bi bil in še kaj več. Pa to se ve, ko bi pijače ne bilo na svetu, bilo bi marsikaj drugače. Ko bi se pes ne bil za grmom zamudil, pa bi bil zajca, ujel; tako bi bili moj oče bolj pametno storili, ko bi bili še nekaj malega časa živeli. Ko so umrli in je ta moj brat gospodarstvo prevzel, ta Benjamin, tačas je Dolef dobil po oporoki nekaj petič več v roke in halo! Kakor bi vraga spustil, bilo je vse naše. Štirje pravi ptiči smo bili: jaz, neki Logar, Vesel, pa neki baron Fric Frik in mi štirje smo imeli groše in ves svet je bil naš pri poličku. Jeminej, to so bile urice! Na Starem trgu je bila lepa Nežika, tista nam je točila do štirih čez polnoč. In pili smo ga dan na dan. Drugo jutro sem vselej prišel ves zaspan v šolo. To je bilo zadnje leto, v prvi klopi sem sedel, — imeli smo zgubanega profesorja, ki je vedno palico nosil pod pazduho na ulicah po letu in pozimi, ta je imel latinsko. Jaz sem bil popred zmerom priden in to mi je potlej, ko sem samo pil, tako prav prišlo, da sem ravno tako shajal, ko drugi, ko so zvečer do desetih v bukvah čepeli. »Quid tu censes?« je prišla vrsta name in Dolef se je
vzdignil iz prve klopi, malo bled in krvavih oči, pa vendar še čvrst, in se je tako odrezal, da so vsi strmeli. In na večer smo spet in spet pili. To so bile urice! Povejte mi, ali je današnji dan še kaj veselega sveta?«
»O, še se najdejo!« odgovori Kvas — »toda jaz sem takih veselic malo skusil.«
»Verjamem, verjamem,« pravi Dolef in hitro tri pota na gosto dima potegne, da bi spet pravil dalje
o	svojih uricah. »No, ljudje so se sprevrgli; nemara, da že ni več pravih pivcev. Glejte, kako se svet spremeni, tempora multantur! Tisti moj tovariš Frik je bil svoje dni tak, da je vinski kar denar trosil — trosil, zastopite; no, zdaj pa ljudje pravijo, da je neki na štajarskem sodnik in si je tako prelevil poprejšnjo kožo In pamet, da ga ne pije kaplje več in da si je že veliko premoženja naskoparil. Samo jaz sem še stari ostal in bom ostal najbrž do groba. Včasi sem že rekel, da bom popustil pitje, ali ne gre in ne dži se. Kamor se človek enkrat vpreže, tam mora voziti po suhi in blatni cesti. 'Vino pellite curas,’ bere se v Horaciji, če se ne motim.«
»Dobro pamet imate, da niste še pozabili takih
zdravnikove skušnjave
Nekoč pride k meni v mojo zdravniško sobo mlada, nekoliko slabotna gospa. Pričakovala je prvega otroka. Bila je zaskrbljena, zato sem skušal razpršiti njene skrbi. Potem sem jo sprejel v svojo kliniko.
Prišel je porod. Bil sem zraven z dvema bolniškima sestrama. Otrokova lega ni bila ugodna. Posrečilo se mi je prijeti nožico prihajajočega otroka in obenem ugotoviti, da je deklica. Kje pa je druga noga? Čutil sem, da druga noga manjka. Gornji del noge je segel samo do kolena.
Kaj na storim? Kako bo nervozna mati sprejela, če ji pokažem takega otroka? Kako njeni domači, ki komaj čakajo?
In jaz sam? V duhu sem videl pred seboj malega pohabljenčka, ki se ne more veselo igrati s prijateljicama in sedi osamljen v kotu. Samo jaz sem mogel družini prihraniti to žalost.
Porod je bil težak in poln komplikacij. Treba bi mi bilo samo nekoliko počasneje delati; dete še ni dihalo; v svoji notranjosti sem slišal glas: Reši nesreče mater in otroka. Preudarjal sem in se boril, ali naj storim to ali ne? Odločil sem se, da ne naprtim družini pohabljenca.
Tedaj se zopet prikaže mala, rožnato rdeča otrokova nožiča — njeno gibanje je razodevalo življenje in moč. To mi je bilo preveč. Čutil sem, da moram otroku pomagati v življenju. Tako je prišla na svet deklica z eno samo nogo.
Zgodilo se je, česa sem se bal; mati je bila dolge mesece na živčni kliniki. Bila je le še senca tega, kar je bila prej. Potem se je družina odselila in ničesar več nisem slišal o njej. Vedno pa sem postal nemiren, kadar sem se spomnil na tega otroka.
Sedemnajst let pozneje!
Na kliniki smo obhajali božičnico. Ko je izzvenela pesem “Sveta noč, blažena noč”, se je na
odru dvignil zastor, nastopile so tri mlade deklice: prva je igrala harfo, druga violino, tretja čelo. Tista, ki je igrala harfo, se je pokazala kot prav posebna umetnica. Vsega me je prevzela. Igrala je z občutkom in notranjo toplino. Njeni fini prsti so hiteli preko strun. Ko so strežnice pele, je njeno obličje, obdano z bujnimi kostanjevo rjavimi lasmi, in s pogledom obrnjenim proti nebu — bilo ožarjeno z blaženo radostjo.
Po slovesnosti sem voditeljici tega lepega večera hotel čestitati. Preden pa sem mogel to storiti, pristopi k meni gospa, ki je nisem poznal. “O, ali ste jo videli? Gotovo ste spoznali vašega nekdanjega novorojenčka? To, ki je igrala harfo, in videla sem, kako je z igranjem vplivala na vas.”
Brez besed sem strmel v gospo. Tedaj se mi predstavi in reče: “Ali se še spominjate deklice z eno nogo, ki se je pred sedemnajstimi leti rodila na vaši kliniki? Storili smo vse, da bi ji življenje olajšali. Že nekaj let ima umetno nogo. Pa bi tega nikoli ne mogli opaziti. Hodi, gre ne potovanje, plava, pleše. V dolgi dobi, ko ni mogla hoditi, se je naučila rabiti svoje roke. Namerava postati velika umetnica v igranju na harfo. Ona mi je v življenju vse, in tudi sama je tako srečna!”
Še vedno nisem mogel spregovoriti besede. Zamislil sem se, dokler se mi ni z nežnim korakom približala mlada umetnica. Tedaj je mati sama rekla s tresočim se glasom: "To je tvoj prvi zdravnik, moja najdražja. On mi je sporočil tvoje rojstvo in te je prvi položil v moje naročje.”
Tedaj sem deklico objel. In zopet sem videl samega sebe v operacijski sobi — pred sedemnajstimi leti. Še enkrat sem doživljal minute, ko je njeno življenje bilo samo v moji roki. Nato sem ji dejal: “Ljubo dete, nikoli ne boste vedeli, kaj nocojšnji večer zame pomeni. Prosim pa Vas, vzemite še enkrat svojo harfo in zaigrajte nanjo samo zame! Na svojih ramah nosim težo, ki je ni še nikdar nihče videl, samo Vi mi jo morete odvzeti.” Prejel sem odgovor na vprašanje, ki me je mučilo dolgih sedemnajst let.
(W. Bers, Po Spominih ameriškega zdravnika Loomisa.)
izrekov. Ali ste se še potlej kaj pečali s knjigami?« vprašla Lovre.
»O, kaj še!« odgovori Dolef. »Kar so rajnki oče umrli, pustil sem ves uk. K vojakom sem jo bil pobrisal, pa je nisem mogel daleč prignati. Dejali so, da sem vedno pijan, pa pijan sem bil malokdaj. Res sem ga zvračal, kakor tisti v pesmi:
En starček je bil,	je glažek izpraznil,
je vince rad pil:	je	druz’ga	nalil,
ali znal sem ga tudi nositi. Kar so mi bili pa oče pustili dote, tisto je šlo z vragom; pa naj gre v božjem imenu, saj mi mora brat Benjamin kot dajati do smrti in pri tem se še vendar včasi kak božjaj ulovi, da je za požirek brinjevca.«
»Ali če človek preveč pije, prikrajša si življenje in človek živi zato, da sebe in druge srečne stori -«
»Le tiho, le tiho, že vidim, da majhno filozofa v vas tiči in da bi me radi spreobrnili. Pa saj veste, kdaj se pijanec spreobrne: kedar se v jamo zvrne.
Zakaj tega ne skrivam, da sem pijanec; kakor sem vas videl, precej sem vam povedal, da me boste poznali. Jaz tudi vem, da bi morda bolje bilo zšme, ko bi se ne bil te navade navzel. Ali kar je, to je in mir besedi! Zato me ne bo nikoli nihče slišal, da bi mu rekel: pijančuj, ampak pravim zmerom: varuj se vraga, delaj tako, kakor me slišiš, ne tako, kakor me vidiš. Pa se bova že še kaj pomenila o moji šoli in druge reči. Zdaj grem doli v vas, če imaju kaj za primako za suho grlo. Če ste kaj učenih bukev prinesli, bova jih enkrat skupaj pogledala in še en pot se bom pomladil in se še marsičesa domislil.«
Lovro je še precej časa gledal za starim, kako je koračil čez vrt. Noge so se mu že opletale, na gosto je že stopal, vse je opominjalo na to, da ni daleč tisti čas, ki bo konec storil življenju tega moža, in vendar mu je bila strast še tako živa! Pač čudna reč to, da more človek drugače ravnati, kakor mu razum veli, razum — največja moč v njem!
NADALJEVANJE PRIHODNJIČ
PREŽIHOV VORANC
PRVO PISMO
»Danes bomo pisali v Celovec,« je rekla mali nekega dne na vsem lepem.
To je pomenilo, da bo treba pisati bratu, ki je pred nekaj tedni odšel v Celovec na gimnazijo. On nam je že enkrat pisal, mi pa mu še nismo odgovorili.
Pisanje je zadelo seveda mene, ki sem hodil v šolo že nekaj let in sem veljal pri hiši menda za najbolj pismenega. Da bi pisal pismo oče, še misliti ni bilo. On ni nikdar hodil v šolo, vendar se je v mladosti sam naučil nekaj pisati in brati. Bral je zelo počasi, zlogoma, ali branje mu je še kar šlo, toda s pisanjem je bilo veliko težavneje. Pri vsaki črki se je zaustavljal, sukal pisalo v rokah in razmišljeval, kako se črka napiše, in ko je črko naposled spravljal na papir, je sopihal, ko da bi dvigal kdove kako težko breme. Preden pa je napisal celo besedo, mu je raz čelo že tekel znoj.
Sedaj pa naša mati. Ona je bila hči velikega kmeta in je v zgodnji mladosti hodila v šolo. Takrat pri nas prave šole še ni bilo, ampak je šolarje učil domači mežnar. Bil je baje zelo strog učitelj, hodil je s palico v rokah po raz-1 redu. Vsak mesec je morala mati nesti mežnarju dvajsetico za ta pouk. Po enem letu šole ali kaj je naša mati osirotela, umrla ji je namreč mati, in potem je bilo njene šole konec. Treba je bilo delati doma, pasti živino in misliti na vse drugo, le na šolo ne. Mati je vedno vzdihovala, kadar se je spomnila šole:
»Zakaj me niso pustili v šolo do konca? Gotovo bi mi zdaj ne bilo treba tako trpeti, če bi šolo dokončala...«
Toda pisala je mati mnogo bolje kakor oče, posebno dobro pa je znala brati. V zimskih večerih je pred celo družino brala iz Mohorjevih knjig in znala je brati tako dobro, da so nam te povesti vstajale živo pred očmi ter nam je, posebno otrokom, včasih kar sapa zastajala, ko smo jo poslušali.
Meni je pisanje v šoli seveda šlo že precej gladko od rok, vendar mi je spričo materine naloge postalo kar vroče. Nikdar v življenju še nisem pisal kakega pisma in tudi v šoli se kaj takega nismo učili. Zatorej sem se začel kislo držati in se izmotavati, toda mati je odrezala:
»Pisal boš, jaz ti bom pa pomagala!«
Bilo je v nedeljo popoldne, ko smo se torej lotili pisanja tega prvega pisma. Nedeljski popoldnevi so bili v naši hiši že tako polni neke svečanosti in nekega velikega miru. Ta občutek je bil še močnejši, ako je sonce sijalo na našo hišo. Danes pa, ko smo se spravili, da napišemo prvo pismo bratu, ki živi v tujem mestu, je bil ta popoldan naravnost svečan. Jaz sem se nekoliko tesnega srca razkoračil za mizo, ki jo je mati prej dobro pobrisala. Oče je ležal vznak na postelji ob steni. V roki je držal svoj celovški tednik »Mir« in se delal, ko da bi ga bral. V resnici pa je že zadremal od utrujenosti, čeprav je šele komaj legel. Manjša dva bratca sta sedela na klopi pri peči in strahoma strmela proti mizi, kjer se je lesketala pola belega pisemskega papirja. Sredi mize je čepela steklenica s črnilom, v kateri je tičalo pero. Mati je sedela na klopi ob oknu, nekaj stran od mize, in je po svoji navadi držala roke križem. To navado je imela še od svojih staršev, ki so bili veliki kmetje in so roke vedno tako pestovali, čeprav je bila ona sama zdaj navadna najemnica. Njen obraz je bil svetal, upa poln. Le nekoga ni bilo v sobi, in to je bila naša babica, ki se je bila umaknila v kuhinjo, od koder se je čul njen ropot. Čeprav je bila tudi ona članica naše družine, se je ob posebno svečanih in važnih dogodkih vedno umikala iz kroga ostale družine, ko da bi takih dogodkov ne hotela motiti.
»Zdaj pa začni, moraš lepo napisati, da bo brat vesel...« je rekla mati čez nekaj časa.
ANA GABER
ŠT. 2, Chicago, IL
gr
Slovenska Dedisc^
Jaz sem medtem že trikrat namočil pero v črnilo in čakal na pisanje. Enkrat mi je s peresa že kanilo, toda v mojo veliko tolažbo mi ni kanilo na papir, ampak na mizo poleg papirja. Mati je vstala, obrisala mizo in vzdihnila:
»Pazi, da ne boš popackal pisma.« Nato je rekla: »Piši,« in začela narekovati:
»Dragi sin...«
Sklonil sem se in napisal ti dve besedi, toda z uspehom nisem bil nič kaj zadovoljen. Napisal sem jih z okornimi črkami ter na vsak način slabše, kakor pa sem navadno pisal. Mati je vstala in pogledala na papir. Tudi ona je zapazila, da sem slabo pisal, zato mi je rekla z očitajočim glasom:
»Malo pa le lepše piši, kaj bo sicer oni v Celovcu rekel...«
Toda tudi moji materi narekovanje ni šlo kdove kako gladko iz ust. Šele čez nekaj časa je nadaljevala:
»Jaz primem pero v svojo desno roko in Ti pišem čez hribe in doline tja v daljno celovško mesto, da bi te naše pismo zdravo in veselo našlo, kakor nas je našlo Tvoje zadnje pismo...«
Meni je roka zelo drgetala, ko sem pisal te lepe materine besede, toda menda ne zaradi njih topline, ampak zato, ker mi je mati med pisanjem strogo gledala na prste. Zato sem za pisanje tega stavka potreboval mnogo več časa, ko pa bi ga potreboval v šoli. Tudi mati je zapazila mojo zamudo, zato je vprašala:
»Ali si že napisal?«
»Ze!« sem dahnil na kratko.
»Piši dalje,« je rekla mati in nadaljevala:
»Pri nas doma je vse po starem, samo za Teboj nam je vsem skupaj zelo dolg čas, posebno meni, Tvoji materi. Tudi očetu je dolg čas za Teboj...«
»Tudi meni je dolg čas,« sem se oglasil jaz, Govoril sem po resnici, zakaj tudi mene je bratov odhod tiščal pri srcu, čeprav sva se skoraj vsak dan skregala ali stepla, dokler je bil pri hiši.
»Nama je tudi dolg čas,« sta se tedaj oglasila bratca pri peči.
»Pa napiši to, kar si rekel,« me je tedaj pozvala mati.
Jaz sem hotel koj napisati, kar sem bil prej rekel, toda tega ni bilo tako lahko storiti. Neka tesnoba me je zgrabila pri srcu, da tega, kar sem čutil, niti zase niti za bratca nisem mogel spraviti na papir. Tedaj mi je pomagala mati in je narekovala:
»Tudi nam, Tvojim bratom, je dolgčas za Teboj...«
Komaj sem te besede spravil na papir, mi je tesnoba
že odlegla in pri srcu mi je postalo toplo in prijetno. Mati pa je narekovala dalje:
»Na našem vrhu še sonce sije. Ozimina je že zelena, bavha pa je imela lepega junca. Škoda, da te ni zdaj doma,..«
Jaz sem naglo pisal, ker mi je šlo od srca. Tedaj pa je nenadoma vzrojil oče, ki se je dotlej delal, ko da bi spal: »Zakaj mu čenčarite take reči? Pišite mu rajši, naj se dobro uči, da ne bomo zaman metali denarja skozi okno...«
Očetove oči, ki so preletele sobo, so bile dokaz, da je stvar resno vzel. Letna šolnina v denarju je namreč res znašala čez dvesto kron, ki jih je moral oče pridelati z golimi rokami,
Pri očetovih besedah je materin obraz spreletela lahna rdečica. Podoba je bilo, da jo je očetov izbruh zabolel. Toda to je bilo le mimogrede opaziti, oče se je kmalu potopil v dremanje in si obraz pokril s svojim »Mirom«. Sedaj smo bili sami. Mati je spet narekovala:
»Če Ti kaj rabiš, nam moraš pisati. Ako si lačen, Ti bomo poslali kruha in jabolk. Ali pri vas že kurijo, ker noči postajajo mrzle? Sedaj Ti moram še pisati, da se moraš dobro učiti, ker Ti bo prav prišlo v življenju in Ti ne bo treba tako trpeti kakor nam drugim. Zato smo Te dali v šolo. Oče tako hočejo in jaz tudi in bratje tudi...«
Naglo sem pisal in pismo se je bližalo koncu. Tedaj so se nenadoma odprla vrata in v sobo je stopila naša babica. Obstala je sredi sobe, pogledala zdaj mater, zdaj očeta, zdaj mene in nazadnje bratca pri peči ter rekla: »Napišite še od mene, da ga pustim lepo pozdraviti...« Ko je to spregovorila, se je po njenem obrazu razlilo tiho sočutje, in ko je nato odšla iz sobe, je med vrati še rekla:
»Ni lahko tako mlademu po svetu...«
Ko je odšla, je mati hitro rekla:
»Napiši, da ga tudi babica lepo pozdravljajo...«
Babica je čakala, dokler smo vsi drugi družinski člani povedali bratu v Celovcu, kar smo mislili, potem je šele ona prišla na vrsto,. To je bila njena skromnost, ki nas je grela skoraj četrt stoletja.
Ko je babica odšla nazaj v kuhinjo, je mati hitro rekla: »Napiši hitro: Tudi babica Te pozdravljajo prav lepo...« Ko je bilo že vse to na papirju, se je mati naslonila na steno, kakor da bi se hotela oddahniti. Jaz sem papir že enkrat obrnil. Medtem ko sem skraja le zelo težko pisal, mi je proti koncu že kar šlo od rok. Tedaj je mati rekla: »Ali je še kaj pisati... ?«
Pogledala je po sobi, toda nihče ji ni odgovoril, zato je rekla:
»Pa končaj!«
Jaz nisem znal končati, zato je končala ona sama:
»... zdaj pa izročim to pisemce drobni ptičici, da Ti ga bo v svojem kljunčku odnesla z našega vrha v daljno, tuje mesto in Ti ga položila na belo zglavje, kjer Tvoja glavica počiva... Tvoja mati in domači.«
Globoko sem se oddahnil, pismo je bilo torej napisano. Toda zdaj se je zgodilo nekaj strašnega. Ko sem pisal zadnje besede, se je s peresa razlil na beli papir velik madež tinte in pokril skoraj pol vrste pisanja. Strahoma sem vzdihnil. Mati je priskočila, toda ugotovila je lahko le velik madež na papirju.
»Nesrečnež, kaj si pa napravil!« je kriknila nad menoj. Meni je zastala sapa od strahu, toda pomagati si nisem mogel, pismo je bilo pokvarjeno.
»Napisal bom drugo pismo,« sem se začel proseče izgovarjati.
To je bilo laže reči, kakor pa storiti, zakaj mati je prinesla iz trgovine le en sam kos pisemskega papirja in eno kuverto. Več tega ni bilo pri hiši. Jaz sem izgubil glavo, mati pa ne.
»Kje imaš pivnik?« Res je bil v moji šolski torbi tudi pivnik, zatorej sem hitro skočil ponj in ga začel polagati
na pismo. Toda madeža s pivnikom nisem mogel odpraviti, ker je pivnik tinto še huje razmazal, preden jo je posrkal vase. Zdaj je bil na pismu velik črnikast pečat, ki je vse skazil. Pečat se je razmazal prav tam, kjer je bilo napisano: »...in Ti ga položila na Tvoje belo zglavje...«
Mene je bilo naravnost sram in čisto gotovo mi je od sramu kanila solza iz oči, čeprav se tega danes ne spominjam več. Tudi mati je bila žalostna. Trikrat je vzela pismo v roke in gledala nanj proti oknu. Potem je rekla obupano:
»No, vidi se že, toda nisem verjela, da si ti taka packa... Knjig v svojem življenju ne boš nikoli pisal...«
Sedaj je prišla na vrsto kuverta z naslovom. Mati mi je zabičevala, kako moram paziti, da ne bom naslova pokvaril, ker bi takega pisma pošta gotovo ne sprejela in bi brata v Celovcu moralo pred drugimi biti sram.
Naslov je bil v bratovem pismu in ga je bilo treba le prepisati. To že ni bila taka reč. Zato sem pero zelo skrbno pomočil v tinto in začel pisati z okorno roko, kolikor se je dalo čedno. Mati se je pri tem sklonila k meni in mi narekovala naslov, kije bil precej zagoneten. Bile so neke številke sob ali oddelkov. Ko sem vse to že imel čisto lepo na papirju, je prišla še zadnja beseda Klagenfurt. To je bilo nemško ime za naš Celovec in bržkone so bratu rekli, da mora napisati nemško ime. Jaz sem že hotel začeti z velikim K, ko je nenadoma zaropotal oče na postelji:
»Nak, nemškega imena pa že ne boš pisal. Celovec napiši...!«
Jaz sem odstavil pero in pogledal mater. Ta se je zdrznila in potem rekla:
»Saj je vendar vseeno, ali Celovec ali Klagenfurt. Glavno je, da fant pismo dobi. On je že vedel, zakaj nam je moral poslati nemško ime...«
Naš oče je bil namreč odločen Slovenec, čeprav je bil velik siromak in se nikdar ni vdal Nemcem in njihovemu pritisku. Mati pa je bila iz take hiše, ki je znala korakati, da se ni nikomur zamerila. Bila je krasna mati, toda v teh rečeh je bila popustljiva in mlačna.
Oče je gnal svoje dalje.
»Če je vseeno, potem je vseeno, potem bo veljalo tudi, če napišeš Celovec. Ali nismo enakopravni? Zakaj pa potem plačujemo vsi enake davke? Nikakor ne, Klagenfurt pa že ne boš napisal...«
Pri teh besedah se je tako razvnel, da se je dvignil na postelji in začel grozeče štrleti proti mizi.
»Če bi pa brat pisma ne dobil... ?« je rahlo podvomila mati.
»Klagenfurt ne boš napisal, pa četudi brat nikdar ne dobi kakega pisma od nas. Zategadelj bo tudi doštudiral.«
Sedaj je bilo konec prerekanja. Oče je dejal:
»Napiši: Celovec...«
Ker ni trenil z očmi, sem moral takoj začeti pisati. Pismo je imelo slovenski naslov.
Materin pomislek je bil zelo utemeljen. Takrat se je velikokrat dogajalo, da pošta ni dostavljala pisem, ki so imela slovenske naslove. Toda naš oče se za to ni brigal.
»Če bo le prav prineslo... ?« je še enkrat podvomila mati. Oče pa je že ni več slišal, ker se je zopet zleknil na posteljo in zahrlil.
Nato je vzela pismo v roke in ga še enkrat prebrala. Med branjem je zardevala kakor otrok. Jaz sem jo strahoma gledal, ker sem se bal, da bo zopet našla kako napako. Tega sicer ni bilo, toda zadovoljna s pismom ni bila, ker je bilo ne le popackano, ampak tudi vse polno odtisov mojih zamazanih rok. Nato je šele preganila pismo in ga dala v kuverto s tako svetostjo, ko da bi vanjo polagala kak velik zaklad.
Drugo jutro sem nesel na pošto pismo, s katerim je naš oče začel borbo za naš Celovec.
pil)
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“FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART”
D A V Y’S COLUMN
Message to Mom
The sun was bright and warm, as it shone through the east bedroom window that second Sunday in May. It was 7:00 a.m. She would have to hurry if she wanted to make 8:30 Mass. She sat up and put her bare feet on the floor.
“Oh!”
Immediately, she rested her head on her knees. The room was spinning in one direction and the furniture seemed to be going in another. Her stomach was doing somersaults, no flips. Her saliva glands were working overtime. No doubt about, she was going to be sick—now! Despite her dizzy condition she jumped out of bed and ran to the nearest bathroom.
She wasn’t sick often, but when she was it was almost as if nature was making up for lost time.
Moments later a very weak and pale woman emerged from the bathroom. Using the walls for support, she inched herself back to her bedroom. Once she was close
enough, she fell on her bed. Although she had only gone several feet, she felt like she just returned from a 10 mile hike. As she closed her eyes, she pulled a blanket over her chilled body. Before she could count to 10, she had fallen back to sleep.
You’re probably wondering what a woman sick with the flu on the second Sunday of May has to do with Mother’s Day?
Well, for starters the second Sunday of May is Mother’s Day. The woman in the story was me a few years back, and when I saw a doctor later that week because I was unable to shake the flu, I learned I didn’t have the flu but was going to have a baby.
Out of all the days in the year, it was Mother’s Day that my daughter (with the help of God) chose to inform me of her presence.
The best Mother’s Day present a mother could receive, is to find out she’s a mother.
‘Til next month,
DAVY
“I Love My Grandmas and Grandpas!”
Two years ago when I was six, I drew a picture of my grandma Jean Paik Br. 50. Now I am eight and am going to write about my grandma Ann.
My grandma Ann Rozanc is in Br. 40, Lorain, Ohio. I made my first Holy Communion March 17th, 1985. My grandma Ann and grandpa Fritz bought me a beautiful communion dress, veil, prayer book and rosary.
I	go to CCD and I like to go to church with my mom Carol Rozanc Br. 50. My church is St. Leo’s in Omaha, Neb. I also go to church with my grandpa Rudy, grandma Jean and Uncle Don. My mommy is a R.N. I am in the third grade. I love school and I love Jesus. I am learning Slovenian from your column in ZARJA. My mom and I visit my grandparents in Lorain, Ohio.
Love.
Jennifer Rozanc, Br. 50
Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.
—Ronald Osborn, The Cockle Burr
Luck is always against the man who depends on it.
—Sunshine Mag., Quote
The easiest way to stay awake during an after-dinner speech is to deliver it yourself.
—Henry Lcabo. Quote
A successful person is one who went ahead and did the thing the rest of us never quite got around to.
—Bils and Pieces
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