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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER1998 VOL. 70
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Uradno Glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze v Ameriki
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Official Publication Slovenian Women’s Union of America
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National Convention, 1999
On the Cover...
Slovenian Women’s Union National Convention Marriott Hotel - 8001 International Drive Orlando, Florida - May 20-23,1999
May 20	Thursday-Registration
Evening Social Event (on Premises)
May 21	Friday-Business Sessions
Evening Social Event (off Premises)
May 22 Saturday-Business Sessions
Banquet and Installations (on Premises)
May 23 Sunday-Church
Social Event (off Premises)
Plan to bring your families to our Convention in Orlando. Arrangements have been made with Walt Disney Attractions to provide discounted prices for 2-day, 3-day and 4-day theme park hopper passes. Park Hopper passes allow you to visit any theme park unlimited times during the days of your tickets. Passes will be available for children 3-9 years and adults. Children under the age of 3 are free.
Additional information the agenda, social events, and ticket prices will be available in future issues of the ZARJA.
Plan to join us! It will be an outstanding event!
Kathy Dorchak, Chairman
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN SEPTEMBER
Presidents:
Sep. 5 -Sep. 10 -Sep. 24 -Sep. 27 -
Secretaries:
Ann Kapel, Br. 100, Fontana, CA Agnes Widina, Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA Mildred Lipnos, Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH Florence Holland, Br. 35, Aurora, MN
Sep. 2- Joanne Ponikvar, Br. 54, Warren, OH Sep. 22 - Rosemary Mlakar, Br. 100, Fontana, CA Sep. 28 - Patricia Adamic, Br. 105, Detroit, MI
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN OCTOBER
National Officers:
Oct. 9 - Corinne Leskovar, Editor, Chicago, IL Oct. 13 - Olga Dorchak, Regional President, Ohio-Michi-gan, Solon, OH Oct. 26 - Kathleen Dorchak, Nat’l Vice President, Silver Lake, OH
Presidents:
Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 15 Oct. 15 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 28
Secretaries:
Rose Ann Prey, Br. 89, Oglesby, IL Edna Winters, Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL Rose Bradach, Br. 68, Fairport Harbor, OH Mildred James, Br. 95, So. Chicago, IL Charlene Kobe, Br. 20, Joliet, IL Nancy Satkovich, Br. 97, Caimbrook, PA Mary Bratovich, Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA
SPECIAL EVENTS AND DATES
SEPTEMBER
13, San Francisco, CA
33, Duluth, MN 50, Cleveland, OH
OCTOBER:
3	BACK TO MEETINGS!
21-29 JO’S TOUR OF SEATTLE,
VICTORIA & VANCOUVER B.C. 12 LITTLE FALLS CRAFT SHOW 16 ANNUAL PICNIC
13, San Francisco, CA 11-12 JO’S RENO TRIP
32, Euclid, OH	21	MASS-ST. CHRISTINE’S CHURCH,
7:00p.m.
33, Duluth, MN	7	DINNER-MEETING AT UPPER DECK
35, Aurora, MN	11	FIRST FALL MEETING, Community
Center, 1:30 p.m.
VERY SPECIAL EVENTS:
12, Milwaukee, WI	Sept.	27	WISCONSIN STATE CONVENTION
20, Joliet, IL	Oct.	4	LL.-IND. STATE CONVENTION
70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 24, LaSalle, IL	Sept.	17	70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
Cleveland Branches	Sept.	20	0H-M1CH. STATE CONVENTION
38, Chisholm, MN
Sept. 13 MINNESOTA STATE CONVENTION
Oct. 11	•	Mary	Jermene, Br.	85, Depue, IL
Oct. 22	-	Mary	F. Mohr, Br.	5, Indianapolis, IN
Oct. 31	-	Mary	Taucher, Br.	47: Garfield Hgts., OH
Please see Branch Activities Reports for more information on these events.
ZARJA - THE DAWN
(ISSN 0044-1848)
Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703
NO. 5 SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 1998 VOL. 70
Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress
Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze.
Published six times per year - šestkrat na leto.
Annual Subscription for non-members, $15.00 — naročnina $15.00 letno za ne-članice.
Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926
Periodicals Postage Paid at Joliet, IL and at additional mailing offices All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu.
Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 Telephone: (773) 548-8878
JEAN KORSMAN, National President
September-0ctober are busy months!
Congratulations and best wishes are being sent for successful Regional Conventions in Minnesota; September 13; Ohio-Michigan, Sept. 20; Wisconsin, Sept. 27, and Illinois-Indiana, Oct. 4th, 1998. As I have stated in past messages these annual celebrations join the members together in a much broader sense than the individual monthly meetings. A Regional perspective allows for fresh ideas concerning Branch activities and fund-raisers, and also problem solving ideas and support for the aging membership. I feel certain that a visit from the National President and other invited officers can revitalize and strengthen these Branches with answers to difficult questions (face-to-face), as it were.
I	feel privileged to have attended two Conventions in Illinois-Indiana Region; Chicago Br. 2 and LaSalle, Br. 24. Both times I came away with a feeling of accomplishment and sisterly bonding; so vital in this 72nd year of our organization. These bi-monthly visits through ZARJA are one way your National Officers can become known to each of you; but the personal visits via our Regional Conventions are a major factor in bringing us all closer together.
According to our bylaws, (Article 4:12) the elections of delegates and alternates to the National Convention should take place in October, November and December of the year preceding the Convention. That means that you must begin soon to consider the person you wish to represent your Branch at the gathering in Orlando, FL in May, 1999.
PLEASE, review Article IV, pages 15-19 in your
1995	BYLAWS AND REGULATIONS (out loud), at your next meetings and discuss them so that everyone will be well informed as to the rules of the National Convention. Although the Convention Fund of the SWU pays $225 toward the delegates expenses, individual Branches are responsible for the balance, and should be planning fundraisers to help support their delegates. Plane fares and hotel rates are increasing every year, and these expenses must be shared by the Branch. The four years between conventions allows for ample time to plan for and raise these funds. It is hoped that more than the usual thirty of the sixty plus Branches will consider sending a delegate to Convention 1999. It is much more satisfying to “take part” as a delegate and represent your Branch with a vote, than to find out later that your views were not considered, discussed and implemented as you would have preferred.
Please read the bylaws and all the material that will be sent to every Branch in the coming months. Be prepared to elect the very best representative to speak for you and watch for the important information concerning the convention in future articles of ZARJA.
Our National Treasurer, Beverly Menart, a talented seamstress, has spent many hours creating a quilt to be donated to our SWU convention fund raffles, along with a beautiful doll (I call her Anica) who comes complete with three Slovenian costumes. These raffle items will be sold (separately) to help cover the costs of the convention.
In the past three years you have Started With Us, you have Stayed With Us, and now you can Swing With Us into SWU Convention ’99. Let’s make it a memorable one.
THREE LOVELY MINNESOTANS!
Veda Ponikvar, Woman-of-the-Year of Br. 38, (center) Charlotte Laurich, Minn. Regional President, and SWU Nat’l. President Jean Korsman. Veda shares her recipes with us on page 8.
NATIONAL SECRETARY - - KEEPING UP-TO-DATE
A great deal of time this summer has been spent on collecting dues that are in arrears. Most of these are dues from 1997. We took time to review each and every statement prior to mailing them. It is amazing the way people respond to us. There are letters of apology (which we appreciate), there are explanations (which we appreciate), there are explanations (which we don’t ask for), there are words of encouragement (“keep up the good work”) and there are notes of dismay. We explained in our last article that most of the statements were for 1997; we emphasized that, still we were questioned. We have taken the time to answer as many of the notes as possible.
One interesting call was received from a member who was in arrears for two years, and our note to her advised her of the possible cancellation of ZARJA, her certificate becoming null/void, etc.. Her first question was, “What certificate?”. When it was explained to her that she had a $300.00 death benefit certificate, she immediately asked how she could get record of the certificate. Her call was easy to answer, her remittance is in the mail and we were happy to receive her call.
There are a couple of items I failed to mention in past articles. I want to take care of them, now. First, we neglected to send out Get Well wishes to the husband of our Vice President, Kathy Dorchak. Bob became seriously ill, had emergency surgeries, and spent several days in the hospital. When I last spoke with Kathy, Bob is on the mend, and even the complication of pneumonia did not hold him back from a strong recovery. Prayer really helped, and we thank all who offered them.
We also neglected to extend our sympathy to our Past National President, Tory Bobence on the death of her husband. Tory tried hard to take care of John by herself, but she had her own health problems, and with the help of her children, they survived the stormy decisions that had to be made. We hope that Tory has adjusted to her new status in life, we wish her well and pray for John’s peaceful and eternal rest.
To Ann Tercek, Past Regional President (delegate to many conventions), whose husband Charlie has taken up residence in the Slovene Home for the Aged. Charlie was a :amiliar figure at so many occasions. Again, a decision that really wrenches your very soul. We wish Charlie well, and we pray for Ann and wish her good health.
Finally, a big THANK YOU. We, SWU, are the recipients of a wide-bar printer and a FAX machine, generously donated by Dr. Stephen Majercik. As his office requires updating, he immediately thinks of mom and what she can use in her job. Dr. Steve (as we affectionately call him) also programmed a computer for our database which allows us to add new members, delete the deceased members and make corrections/cancellations as they come in.
Another thank you is due LaVeme Korpnick who responded to the request in the last issue of ZARJA (Payment of SWU dues). Her note on the form stated that she could not remember if she had paid her dues, if she had, the money ($25.00) should be kept as a donation to ZARJA in her name. Thank you, LaVeme. It is truly appreciated.
We do hope to see many of you at the October 4th celebration in Joliet, Illinois. We hope that you will take time to visit the Home Office/Museum that belongs to each and everyone of you. The building has received a face-lifting with some needed tuckpointing done on the fascia. New carpeting inside and newly painted walls have all added to a pleasant atmosphere. We want to thank all the people involved in preparing the premises for the numerous visitors to the area.
As the end of the year grows ever closer, and with our participation in the Seventieth Anniversary of Branch No. 20, let’s put ourselves in a positive frame of mind. The new millennium is upon us, we have survived many storms, we still have much to do, and we can grow. Plans are already in place for the upcoming National Convention, May, 1999, in Orlando, Florida. We need your input, we need your support, we need your prayers.
Respectfully,
Evelyn A. Majercik, National Secretary
70th Anniversary Celebration
A special invitation is extended to all our members and friends to join in the 70th anniversary celebration of Joliet Branch 20. We will begin the day with the Illinois-Indiana State Convention and proceed to St. Joseph Church, Joliet, for a Polka Mass at 11:30 a.m. with music by the Polka-Massters. Prior to the mass, Slovenian Marian hymns will be sung.
Our banquet will be held in the Empress Grand Ballroom at the Empress Casino in Joliet. Our special guest will be Dr. Dimitrij Rupel, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to the United States. Tickets are only $20.00. they must be purchased by September 15, 1998. There will be, as always, a celebration carried out with Joliet style and class.
We look back and, even more importantly, we look forward to the challenges which face us as a fraternal group that has been so active and supportive in the job of promoting and preserving our Slovenian heritage and culture.
Rooms are also available at the Empress Hotel at reasonable rates, so why not plan for a miniweekend? For more information, contact Pat Figurowski at (815) 741 -1863 or Jonita Ruth at (815) 727-1926. I hope to see you on Sunday, October 4, and wish you blessings and all good things!
Father David J. Stalzer, Spiritual Director of Branch 20
Heartiest wishes for a happy 80th birthday to Angie Nico, our ioyai member of Br. 89, Oglesby, IL. Angie was our State Officer for many years and often submits nice photos for our ZARJA. She loves to dress up in her Slovenian National Costume!
On this photo taken at the celebration of her 80th, are, left to right: son-in-law, Jay Wait and Angie’s daughter, Lori, the celebrant herself (center), son William Nico, Ph.D. and his wife, Diane. Over 70 people attended the party! Again, happy birthday, Angie!
DELEGATE ELECTION INFORMATION
Excerpted from the SWU BY-LAWS (Pages 17-19)
ARTICLE IV National Convention
4.09 Any Adult Department member is eligible to be a delegate or alternate to the National Convention if she is at least 18 years of age, a United States citizen and a member in good standing. She must also be a member for at least one year and must have attended a minimum of five meetings of her branch during the year prior to the convention. Attendance and membership requirements may be waived in the case of newly organized branches. To be elected as a delegate or alternate, an individual member must receive a majority of the votes cast during her branch’s delegate and alternate elections.
4.10 A Convention year shall be considered the twelve month period ending on the last day of June immediately preceding the convention. Each branch which members’ assessments have been paid on or before the last day of June preceding the convention year is to be represented at the National Convention as follows:
a) Each branch of the Adult Department shall be entitled to one delegate.
b) Branches with 201 to 400 Adult Department members shall be entitled to two delegates.
c) Branches with more than 401 Adult Department members shall be entitled to three delegates.
4.11 No branch shall be entitled to more than three National Convention delegates.
4.12. Delegates and alternates to the National Convention will be elected within the three month period consisting of October, November and December immediately preceding the convention. Elections held before the first day or later than the last day of this period will not be valid. All delegate and alternate nominations shall be public. Elections shall be by secret ballot. If more than one candidate is nominated, and if a majority is not achieved by any one candidate, the two nominees with the highest total vote shall be voted upon to decide the election. Separate elections shall be held for each delegate position. Alternates will be elected in a similar manner. Unanimous elections by voice shall be valid only if one candidate has been nominated and all members assembled so signify.
4.13. Delegate credentials shall be prepared and signed by the President, Secretary and Treasurer presiding at the election of delegates of the branch. These credentials shall be presented to the Convention Credentials Committee by the delegate.
4.14 Delegates shall be entitled to reasonable travel and perdiem expenses for the National Convention. Transportation should be arranged by the most economical means available.
Irene M. Odorizzi,
Heritage Director
HISTORY OF S.W.U. BRANCHES
Looking Back to the Future
Branch 20, Joliet, Illinois
70th ANNIVERSARY -1928-1998
PART IV
Officers of Branch 20, Joliet
Front row: Fr. David Stalzer, Spiritual Director, Char Kobe, President, Agnes Dobczyk, Vice President, Pat Butterbach, Fin. Secretary, Kathryn Stonich, Rec. Sec’y.; back row: Josephine Lustik, Trustee, Marie Scheidt, Sgt.-at-Arms, Mary Kay Demick and Marcia Judnik, Trustees.
50th Anniversary
Continued from July-August issue
The 50th Anniversary Celebration was memorable to many and was capsulized by President, Emma Planinšek, in a letter to her daughter, who lived on the east coast. The long letter which is treasured by her daughter was written the following day, September 18, 1978 in Slovenian. Excerpts from the letter translate as follows:
Dear Rinie,
... Our special celebration began and ended very well.
I	think that the people were extremely satisfied with the hospitality we extended. The program was very good and didn’t last a long time so I was home by 6 p.m. ... Mrs. Prisland and / sat together and talked ...I'm including with this letter a copy of the program booklet. There was a lot of work involved with this 50th anniversary ... You will read about it in the ZARJA ... We enrolled 55 new members for this event. Jonita Ruth enrolled the most... I’m not sure about whether we will be financially solvent for this celebration but I’m not worried, my most important concern was that everything went well.
Receive my best wishes for health and love from your loving mother."
Mama”
S.W.U. HISTORY
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55th Anniversary
Five years later, in 1983, the branch celebrated once again, not with the same fanfare but still recognizing that each anniversary was another stepping stone toward strengthening the branch and ultimately their part in the total picture of the Slovenian Women’s Union.
Two officers had retired from their respective offices after a long-time of dedicated service to the SWU. These very active ladies, Emma Planinšek and Josephine Erjavec, were honored at a testimonial dinner and given the titles of “Honorary President” and “Honorary Recording Secretary,” respectively. At a banquet complete with program, music and dancing, the branch paid tribute to their outstanding leaders and loyal service as they represented the “love” which is found in every SLOVENIAN.
National Convention in Joliet
In May of 1987, Branch 20 hosted the organization’s 20th national convention at the Holiday Inn. The convention was dedicated to Zveza’s 60 years of achievements and to the future involving its concern for a richer and stronger ethnic preservation.
Helen M. Horwath was the 20/20 Convention Chairperson, and in her words, "The traditions so richly displayed during the Convention are our endowment. Future generations are always eager to learn about the beauty, truth and vitality of their ancestors. I echo our Bishop Vonesh: “Keep up the good work!"
Helen Horwath was very active in the Heritage Museum when it was first formed and was the chairlady of the Nat’l. Convention in ’87. St. Joseph Church was the site of the ceremonious holy mass.
Seated: Treasurer Diane Kalcic, Secretary Ardis Gregorash, President Mildred Pucel, Vice-President Kathleen Harvey, Recording Secretary-Reporter, Helen Plut; standing: Auditor Marie Scheidt, Sergeant-at-arms Marie Malnerick, Spiritual Advisor Rev. David Stalzer, Auditor Mary Anzelc, Auditor Joyce Vicich.
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S.W.U. HISTORY
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60th Anniversary and Regional Convention
A large souvenir booklet accompanied the anniversary celebration and regional convention in 1988. The booklet commemorated the active members, the program of the day, listings of past officers, deceased members, activities sponsored during the years, historical events and advertisements of patrons and many local businesses. The booklet was a treasure of historical information.
The committee consisted of Mildred Pucel, President; Josephine Lustik, ad book; Marie Malnarich and Josephine Lustik, coffee hour; Joyce Vicich and Virginia Du Val, dinner; Olga Ancel, historical research, typist Virginia Du Val; Mary Anzelc, hospitality; Elizabeth Burkhardt and Theresa Papesh, reservations; Rev. David Stalzer, ministry; . Molly Gregorich, Jean Govednik, Dorothy Mahan, Museum; Judy Derlinga and Jo Goron, parade; Helen Plut, publicity; Ardis Gregorash, Secretary; Jonita Ruth, souvenirs; Diane Kalcic and Marie Kalcic, tickets.
Branch #20 membership at its 60th year was comprised of 485 adults and 92 juniors. Mrs. Mary C. Terlep was crowned convention Queen in 1943, 46, and 49 for successful membership campaigns totaling 775 members. The first junior campaign winner in 1939 was Josephine Muster.
Also listed in the booklet were all the SWU Scholarship winners of Br. 20: Roseanne Savol (63); Sharon Planinšek (69); Carita Ancel (71); Rudolph T. Pucel (73); Victoria Hofer (78); Anita Kraus (83); Ellen Smithberg (84); Mary C. Mihelich (86); Margie Cepon (88).
65th Anniversary
Branch #20 combined the celebration of the 65th anniversary with hosting the SWU Illinois-Indiana Regional Convention on October 3, 1993. Co-chairs for the event were Mildred Pucel and Judy Derlinga. Festivities began with a breakfast-meeting at Ferdinand Hall followed by Mass at St. Joseph’s Church. Dinner followed at the Louis Joliet Renaissance Center with entertainment provided by the Frank Kovacic Trio. Keynote speaker for the event was Corinne Leskovar, editor of the SWU monthly publication, ZARJA - The Dawn.
One of the highlights of the convention was the reunion of the former Branch 20 SWU Drill Team Cadets. Twelve 50-year members were also recognized at the banquet. From 1991-93, the branch was active in lobbying activities on behalf of an independent Slovenia and participated in a combined relief effort for refugees and victims of the wars in Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia.
Cadets pictured at the 60th: standing l.-r.: Captain Bernice Metesh, Captain Jo Goron, Captain Dorothy Mahan, Marie Malnerich, Gen Klainsek, Olga Ancel (in her uniform), Marie Scheidt, Delores Govednik, Mildred Pucel. Seated: Jonita Ruth, Agnes Dobycek, Dorothy Surman, Dolores Krszyiak.
Vinska Trgatev (Grape Festival)
For many years in the month of September or October Branch 20 has celebrated the Grape Harvest Festival which was taken from a very important Slovenian folkloric custom.
Members decorated St. Joseph’s Hall with an arbor of fresh grapes and various fruits suspended 6 to 8 feet above the floor, under which they danced. Each year a member or some local dignitary was chosen to be the honorary Mayor of the festival. He/she led the parade of “townsfolk” to the arbor to celebrate the good grape harvest with song, dance food and wine.
In Slovenia, it was customary for the vineyard owner to post guards to prevent the thievery of grapes from the
Rudy Pucel, Gene Klainsek, Dave Picco and John Anzelc might just reach up and pick a grape from the arbor above at a Vinska Trgatev celebration!
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S.W.U. HISTORY
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vineyard and wine from the cellars. Punishment was meted out by a judge as the culprits were apprehended. A monetary fine or a term of imprisonment was imposed. The humorous part of the festival was the re-enactment of the “stealing of fruit,” and being caught by the secret detectives then taken before the judge, fined or put in “jail,” during part of the evening’s festivities until the fine was paid.
Traditional Slovenian refreshments were served, dancing was provided and on some occasions the Chicago Radio Club Folk Dancers, under the direction of Corinne Leskovar, performed the traditional Slovenian dances attired in costumes depicting various regions in Slovenia.
The “Mayors of the Grape Festival” were:
1980 Rudolph J. and Mildred Pucel
1981 Scott and Carita Girman
1982 Anton and Julie Kaluza
1983 John (Dec’d) and Joan Bourg
1984 Donald and Betty Randich of Crest Hill (Mayor)
1985 Peter and Theresa Papesh
1986 Joseph Strle
1987 Charles P and Alice Connor - Mayor of Joliet (at that time)
1988 None
1989 Dick and Josephine Tezak
1990 Rudy Deichman (Dec’d)
1991 Bertha and Fred Hofer Mayor of Shorewood
1992 Arthur and Frances Schultz-Mayor of Joliet (Present time)
1993 Corinne Leskovar
1994 Joseph and Mary Babich
1995 Tony and Joseph Wolf (Button Box players)
1996 Frank Yankovic (Polka King)
1997 Richard and Ellen Tezak, Jr. (President of the Polk Mass-sters)
Heritage Festivals “Be A Proud Slovenian Day”
In 1977, Branch 20, under President Emma Planinšek, accepted the proposal and plans of SWU Heritage Director, Irene Odorizzi, to sponsor a Heritage Festival on June 12, the first of its kind in the midwest. The all-day affair began with American Legion Post 1080 raising American and Slovenian colors followed by four polka bands: the famous Frankie Yankovic orchestra, Roman Possedi, Ron Kramerich and Ken Juricic. Eddie Amez’s Polka Express live radio show originated from St. Joseph’s Park over Station WTAQ broadcasting the musical entertainment.
Within the lecture room one could view a slide show “Land of Our Forefathers” provided by Stane Sustersic with Helen Horwath, explaining the slides or one could listen to a Slovenian language class by Milena Gobetz, and a lecture and exhibit by Dr. Edi Gobetz of the Slovenian Research Center.
Wonderful members served from beautiful tables and with warm smiles of welcome.
The exhibit hall offered many handicraft booths and demonstrations by: Frances Jasbec, Gizella Hozian and Branch #20. Heritage items were for sale. There was the newly-published “Footsteps Through Time” book sale, a button box accordian demo by Ray Podboy, art exhibits by Mary Foys Lauretig and Emilija Razman-Bucik, lace making by Frances Sega, bobbin lace by Jennie Puhek, copper tooling by Breda Modic. There were demonstrations of strudel making by Branch 2 members, Frances Zibert and Millie Paisoli as well as pink tea made by Pots & Pans Editor, Hermine Dicke.
Other entertainment included the Frances Prešeren Singing Society of Chicago, Joliet Slovenian Folk Dancers, St. Joseph School Chorus, Slovenian American Radio Club Folk Dancers from Chicago, accompanied by the Janez Arko Tivoli orchestra, the SWU Cleveland Baton Twirlers.
Other Slovenian fraternal organizations were also represented and there were all types of Slovenian refreshments, including roasted lamb and pig. Games of chance, bingo, raffles and the sale of Slovenian pastries was also featured. The tremendous success of the event was not anticipated; there was such a large gathering of American-Slovenians from all over the midwest that the Joliet police were called to handle the traffic going in and out of St. Joseph’s Park.
The Committee was comprised of: Irene Odorizzi, coordinator; Rev. David Stalzer, general chairman; Barbara Smithberg, publicity; Franz Fedo, food; A1 Lovati and Gene Klainsek, bar; Emma Nosse and Anna Stemisha, bakery; Olga and Ed Ancel exhibit hall; Marie Sheidt, bingo; Emma Planinšek, raffle; Helen Horwath and Ken Odorizzi movies and slides, Rudy Pucel outdoor entertainment; Mary Marolt treasurer, Agnes Lovati, secretary, Jonita Ruth souvenirs and the 42 bartenders and 180 workers in all departments.
Encouraged by the response of the crowd, the festival was repeated in 1978 and again in 1980 with proceeds used to establish the Slovenian Heritage Museum in the SWU National Office in Joliet, IL.
To be continued
Sharing recipes with us!
  VEDA PONIKVAR ENJOYS HER FAVORITE PASTTIME, COOKING!
How does one turn down grand people like Nat’l. President, Jean Korsman; or ZARJA Editor, Corinne Leskovar, when they ask if you might write the cooking page for the magazine? Treasured friendship over the years and many memories make it impossible, though I am fully aware of the responsibilities, and also the challenges of meeting the standards and dedication of Marion Juricic Bowers.
Therefore, I ask the help of all of our SWU Sisters and hope that you send in your wonderful anecdotes, stories, and recipes so that the outstanding tradition of the publication can continue.
When the phone call came I was deeply involved with the All Slav Day Ethnic Celebration at Ironworld this year, and which was an absolute spectacular from morning to evening. The music, the Grape Festival, the kiosks full of Slovenian delicacies that were all home made ana being sold by Chapter Clubs from across the Iron Range, and the colorful native dress depicting the various regions of Slovenia, made one feel proud. The success and acceptance of the day’s events could be read in the happiness and smiles of a record crowd. The Moravcik Band of Cleveland was a very special attraction.
I	was in charge of the walnut Potica and apple and cottage cheese strudel kiosk. Like the whiff of the warm, perfumed Minnesota breeze, those items, plus the Sarma and the Polish sausage disappeared. Sure we ran out of everything near the close of a very outstanding day. Though everyone was weary, the Slovene melodies lingered and we all sang with a song in our hearts as we wended our way home.
To all of you, a warm invitation to visit Minnesota, and let us showcase for you Ironworld and the great north country. The welcome mat is always on the threshold of my home—so do come.
Mayor Marge Peterson, of Slovenian descent, and a superb Mayor of our town submitted this recipe. An outstanding supper dish that anyone would be proud to serve.
CHICKEN SALAD PIE
Toss lightly 3 cups cooked, diced chicken with:
3/4 C shredded American Cheese
2	C diced celery
1/2 C crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 C blanched almonds
1/2 tsp. paprika & 1/2 tsp. salt
Mix altogether and spoon into an 8” or 9” baked pie shell.
Then frost with 1/4 C Miracle Whip folded into 1/2 C whipped cream. Can refrigerate overnight if you wish.
CINNAMON LOGS
1 C butter
5 Tbsp. sugar
2 C flour 1 tsp. salt
Blend together. Take ball of dough and roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into finger size strips and bake on cookie sheet at 325 degrees for 10 minutes. While still warm, roll in a sugar and cinnamon mixture.
Served at President Kennedy’s Inaugural Journalists' luncheon.
PEACH PICKLES
7 lbs. peaches (whole, skin and all) 1 qt. cider vinegar 1 tbs. stick cinnamon
4	lbs. sugar 1 Tbsp. whole cloves
Boil vinegar, sugar and spices together. Drop in peaches, a few at a time until done. Put peaches in stone jar or crock and pour syrup over. Pour off syrup each morning for the next three mornings, and boil up and pour over peaches again. Peaches can then be placed in jar, but they are best if they remain in the crock and are well covered.
Excellent with meats of all kinds.
This recipe dates back to the 1800s and was a specialty served for generations by the Greenleaf and Vickery families of Illinois. The recipe was featured in the Bicentennial Cookbook of 1976 - a treasure of Chisholm’s Bicentennial Celebration.
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APPLE CUP CAKES
This is a turn of the century recipe. Rich in vitamins and a delight for children dashing in hungry from school.
1 C shortening
2 eggs
2	C white sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cloves 1/2 tsp. allspice 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
3 C flour
1 C chopped walnuts 1 C chopped raw apples 1 C raisins soaked in hot water & drained 1 C cold coffee.
Cream shortening, sugar and eggs. Add dry ingredients with coffee. Fold in raisins, apples and nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes.
Makes 32 cup cakes.
Veda Ponikvar is one of the best known Slovenians on the Iron Range of Minnesota. She was publisher and editor of the Chisholm, Minnesota FREE PRESS-TRIBUNE for many years until her recent retirement. She has been a most active leader and participant in city, community and parish affairs and even on the national level serving on countless committees and always promoting benefits for her fellow-citizens.
When we learned of her excellence in baking and cooking, Veda was asked to contribute a recipe column for ZARJA which we are happy to have this month.
SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING
The Annual Meeting of the Slovenian Women’s Union National Board was called to order at 9:10 a.m. Friday, March 20, 1998. The opening welcome prayer was given by President Korsman.
Roll call was taken and the following board members were present:
Jean Korsman, National President; Kathleen Dorchak, National Vice President; Evelyn Majercik, National Secretary; Beverly Menart, National Treasurer; Cirila Kermavner, First Auditor; Pat Figurowski, Second Auditor; Josephine Lustik, Third Auditor (New Board Appointment); Irene Odorizzi, Cultural and Heritage Director; Corinne Leskovar, ZARJA Editor.
Minutes of the March, 1997 Board Meeting - In the essence of saving time, the board agreed to dispense with the reading of the minutes at this time.
Correspondence - President Korsman shared various correspondence and comments from members. The letter of resignation from Second Auditor, Marge Church, was read. Effective January 1, 1998 the Board accepted her resignation with regret, and appointed Josephine Lustik, a former auditor, to the interim position until a new auditor will be elected at the next national convention. Written reports were sent in by Women’s Activities Director, Kathleen Emerson, Food Columnist, Marion Bowers and Regional Presidents, Bonnie Prokup, IL-IN, Charlotte Launch, MN and Joan Yaklich, WI.
Jim Verkuilen - Illinois Department of Insurance
Mr. Jim Verkuilen shared with us his comments about our account system, Scholarship Fund, and Bylaws. Jim expressed his compliments to Evelyn Majercik, National Secretary for an excellently prepared annual report for 1997. He indicated that the insurance regulations may require more detailed information in the future. According to Jim, we have made wise decisions in our investments. We discussed the possibility of changing our status from a burial society to a social organization.
Based on our Bylaws, Jim advised that we are required to keep the money in the newly established tax exempt Scholarship Foundation separate from the existing Scholarship Fund. Combining the two bank accounts can only be decided by the delegates at the next National Convention in 1999. Until that time, we will have two separate accounts. Jim will send a letter to Mary Turvey, Scholarship Director, to explain this requirement.
The Illinois Department of Insurance has reviewed and approved the final version of the Bylaws as voted on at the last National Convention in May, 1995. Mr. Verkuilen advised that the Department of Insurance may request to have a target examination this year to review our record keeping and financial information.
This visit from the Insurance Department Representative was extremely informative, helping us to conform to the requirements and regulations set by the Illinois Department of Insurance. The Board thanked him for taking time from his busy schedule to attend the meeting.
Ronald J. Erjavec and Joy Gruber, C.F.A. - First Midwest Trust company, Joliet, IL
A report of the financial and investment status of our funds was given as of February 28,1998. A recommendation was made to decrease our reserve requirement from $25,000 to $ 15,000. A discussion followed on the status of the percentage of our investments held in common stocks. We may need to change the percentage of investments in common stocks based on recent changes to state regulations. It was agreed that the common stock investment percentage will be established by what is allowable by the Illinois State of Insurance for fraternal organizations. The Board agreed to allow First Miudwest Trust to make the necessary modifications.
The Board expressed their gratitude to the time and attention First Midwest Trust takes with our account. The bank has invested our funds wisely and cautiously.
Reports of Board Appointees:
Kathleen Emerson - Women’s Activities Director
Kathleen expressed her disappointment in the amount of donations received for the restoration of Bishop Baraga Monument in the Cultural Gardens in Cleveland, Ohio. The Board discussed ways to increase this contribution.
Kathleen plans to coordinate another member reunion to Las Vegas in November in 1998. She encouraged anyone interested to make her own reservations to attend once the date has been decided.
Kathleen plans to complete the financial status and count of the “Slovenia Travel Book” and will be advised to send the total amount to the National Secretary. National Treasurer Menart will write to Kathleen to request this information by April 15, 1998.
In the future, The Slovenia books will be sold from the Home Office. The Board designed a form to send to Kathleen and Jonita Ruth to record the sale of the books and to determine the progress of the sales so far.
Mary Turvey - Scholarship Director
Mary submitted her written report for the months of January 1, 1997 through December 31,1997. The Board agreed that some changes were required in her annual report. President Korsman will advise Mary of the required changes that need to be made and resubmitted by May 1, 1998. The Board reviewed the duties, responsibilities and the job description of the Scholarship Director and will send the additions to the Director.
The Board approved the establishment for the new Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Foundation to obtain tax exempt status. The Articles of Incorporation were reviewed by the Board and requests for modification and clarification will be requested from the Director.
Irene Odorizzi - Cultural & Heritage Director
Irene is in the process of ordering new products to be sold at the Heritage Museum. Irene asked for approval to approach the Slovenian Government to assist their help in obtaining an individual to help in the museum development and design authentic exhibits and display cases. Another person with computer experience would be needed for a genealogical project. The Board unanimously approved Irene’s request to pursue her proposal.
Corinne Leskovar - ZARJA Editor
The Board reviewed the donations to help defer the costs of the publication of the ZARJA. Corinne expressed her concerns about obtaining information on a timely basis. Since the ZARJA will be published every other month, the editor receives more information to be printed each month than can be printed on 24 pages. The Board agreed that a limit of 32 pages will be established for each issue.
Corinne has been reviewing the mailing list for the ZARJA to keep it up to date with the membership listing. It is cost prohibitive to mail the ZARJA to the deceased and lapsed members.
Corinne Leskovar - Cookbook Coordinator
The Board asked Corinne to assume the responsibility of organizing the new SWU cookbook with the Croatian Franciscan Press. Corinne accepted this challenging position. The Board reviewed and discussed the layout and the contents of the proposed revision of the existing cook book “Pots and Pans.” This new book will be dedicated to Hermine Dicke, the past cookbook editor and food columnist. A date will be set in July for Cirila, Evelyn, Kathy, and Corinne to meet and discuss the progress. Assignments have been made to members of the Committee of Board members which is to meet the deadline to publish the cook book. The selling cost of the cook book will be set after the printing cost has been decided.
Marion Bowers - Food Editor
The Board read the report from the Food Editor. Marion has put a lot of time and effort into her column and the Board appreciates all of her hard work. Marion will be asked to select some of the favorite recipes published in the ZARJA for the cookbook.
The SLOVENIA travel book was Mrs. Bowers’ suggestion as a fund raiser at the meeting in 1997 and she is happy to know that everyone who has purchased the book is very satisfied. She is confident that the sale of this book would bring in a nice financial increase for the SWU.
The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 9:10 a.m. Saturday, March 21,1998.
Reports of the National Officers:
Evelyn Majercik - National Secretary
National Secretary Majercik reviewed the financial report for the year January to December 1997. The Board discussed the various accounts and their associated expenses. Unfortunately, we had a loss for the year due to the high expense for the extensive repair to the Home Office building. The annual report has been filed with the Illinois Department of Insurance for 1997.
Secretary Majercik informed the Board she has secured an additional accountant to review the transactions. The PC program Fox Pro will be installed on the computer to itemize the membership listing. This report is required annually for the insurance board. The computer program, Quick Books is used to process the financial information.
Based on new figures, our membership is down to 4,800 members. Secretary Majercik continually processes applications and death benefits. Unfortunately, payment of death benefits far exceeds new membership applications.
Secretary Majercik made a motion to purchase a full page advertisement in the program for the 70th Celebration for Branch 20. The motion was seconded and was unanimously approved.
Secretary Majercik’s report was unanimously approved by the Board.
At this time the Board took a break as Secretary Majercik, Treasurer Menart, and Third Auditor Figurowski left to visit the Safe Deposit Bank at First Midwest Bank. The contents of the safe deposit box had not been reviewed by the current Board. Items found were the Articles of Incorporation, Deed for the property, and old bank books. The Board considered inserting previous Bylaw booklets.
Cirila Kermavner, Pat Figurowski, and Josephine Lustik - National Auditors
The Board’s unanimously accepted the resignation of Second Auditor, Marge Church, as of December 31, 1997. to fill the position until the next National Convention the Board unanimously approved Josephine Lustik.
The auditors reviewed the books for the year ending December 31, 1997 and found them in good order.
Beverly Menart - National Treasurer
National Treasurer Menart explained the results of the financial survey of the branches. The Board reviewed various branches and expressed their concerns that some branches may need to be dissolved or merged with other branches.
Treasurer Menart is in the process of making a quilt to be raffled off at the National Convention in Orlando.
Kathleen J. Dorchak - National Vice President
Vice President Dorchak asked the Board for their ideas and suggestions in preparation for the upcoming National Convention in May of 1999. She is planning to go to Orlando at the beginning of June to make all the necessary arrangements. Consideration was given to offering outside tours to the delegates and visitors. The Board decided to concentrate on the convention business meetings first and schedule a possible plan for a one day group event. She plans to keep the Board updated with all of the arrangements.
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
Jean Korsman	Kathleen	J. Dorchak
President	Recording	Secretary
REPORTS:
NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Much has been accomplished in the past year, but like the list of “things to do” at home, one matter is checked off only to add two new “jobs” to that list. I am satisfied that several endeavors have been completed for our SWU in 1997.
The “Rituals” and Bylaws as corrected in 1995, were finalized and published in booklet form, with two copies sent to each Branch secretary. Branches wanting extra copies for
individual members can order them for $1 each from the Home Office.
A decision was made to save money by eliminating two issues of ZARJA this year. We hope to resume printing eight issues.
A request for financial disclosure at the Branch level was answered by most of the secretary-treasurers. National Treasurer Beverly Menart has compiled a report for the Board’s review which shows extreme disparity between the “financially secure” branches and the “barely solvent.” It is hoped that a fair and equitable solution to this problem can be achieved through an examination of our bylaws pertaining to financial disclosures and by understanding the intentions of our founders.
The long and costly renovation of the Home Office building has been completed. Extensive work was done from the basement to the upper level. The Heritage Museum and office have been painted and carpeted. National Auditor, Pat Figurowski directed Clerk Jonita Ruth and the “volunteers” in this project and was in charge of supervising the hired workers. The Heritage Director, Irene Odorizzi, has strived to maintain a professional atmosphere in the Office and Museum, with ever-expanding and interesting displays of artifacts. The public can also purchase souvenir items with a Slovenian flavor; from flags and pins to books, aprons, cups and cards. Irene continues to write her informative and educational columns of Heritage News, and has spent many hours assisting people in the search for their Slovenian roots. Besides her Heritage Director’s duties Irene has been a long-time active member of SWU and was responsible for chartering the branch (103) in Washington, D.C. She has also been an invaluable source of information, support and encouragement to my Presidency.
I have been in contact with all members of the Board in 1997. Even though we are separated by many miles, the Executive Board exchanges opinions, shares problems and arrives at decisions by letter, phone and fax, (now that I have finally learned to use our farm fax machine and copier.) I find it very time-consuming to write letters, but in several instances it would have been the wisest choice. Arguments and misunderstandings can be the result when words and intentions are misinterpreted on the phone. As the National President I have done my best to conduct SWU business in a diplomatic and professional manner.
I was invited to attend three Regional Conventions in 1997. As Ohio-Michigan had four National Officers present. I did not travel there. I was fortunate to be able to attend the Illinois-In-diana Zveza Days in LaSalle, Illinois in October as the guest of Regional President Bonnie (Pohar) Prokup and the Pohar family. The Board feels that these visits from the National President are invaluable. They help to establish personal bonds of friendship and give the President the opportunity to exhort the members to continue to participate in their Branch activities and at the Regional level, at the same time acknowledging that we are a National Organization. This broad view is easier to comprehend when members meet face to face.' The National President becomes more than a picture in ZARJA. Questions can be answered and perhaps some problems solved on this personal level.
It was my great joy to be a guest at the Duluth, Minnesota Zveza Days in September. The Minnesota Branches continue to respond to this annual event in large numbers. They feel privileged to belong to the SWU. Their dedication to it’s precepts and their respect for the National Office is humbling.
I am hoping to attend the biennial Convention in Wisconsin on September 27, 1998. It has been many years since a President has visited there. They have kindly changed the date of their meeting so as not to conflict with Joliet’s 70th Anniversary celebration, so I am hoping to extend my greeting in person. I have not been in contact with the other Regions who no longer participate in an annual convention.
National Secretary, Evelyn Majercik has handled the formidable demands of her office with unusual determination, perseverance and dignity. Thanks to her continuing dedication, SWU has been brought up-to-date with computerized billing and up-dated office procedures. Book keeping procedures have been implemented which will facilitate a timely and thorough annual audit. Her long hours spent daily dealing with SWU affairs are much appreciated.
Editor, Corinne Leskovar continues to do an exemplary job in compiling our top-notch magazine. ZARJA has always been the glue that holds us all together. It is also our most costly endeavor and we appeal to all Branches to “keep the connection” with donations to the ZARJA fund. Because we have had no communication with the appointed Youth Director, Corinne has arranged with another writer for appropriate material to be published on our Youth page in ZARJA.
The committee preparing a new edition of our Cookbook, a project handled for years solely by Hermine Dicke, has realized the enormity of this undertaking. There has been declining interest from our Senior members, and few new Slovenian recipes have been contributed. The decision was made to proceed with a reprinting of the Pots and Pans format with some deletions and the new additions. This edition will be a tribute to Hermine Dicke, our founder’s daughter, for her many years as Food Editor and Columnist. No deadline has been set.
The Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship fund, under Director Mary Turvey, remains financially stable, although slightly down in donations from last year. A large donation was withheld for over a year because we lacked a tax-exempt number. (We are qualified as non-profit, but not tax-exempt.) After many delays, this problem appears to be rectified.
Women’s Activities Director, Kathleen Emerson, promoted a trip to Las Vegas, in which many members had expressed interest. Like the Slovenia trip, which fell through for lack of interest, only a small group of ladies took advantage of this trip. Kathleen also volunteered to handle the “Slovenia Travel Book” project, a fund-raiser initiated by Food Editor, Marion Bowers. A report is expected soon on the success of this project.
Auditors Cirila Kermavner, Marge Church and Pat Figurowski spent time reviewing the financial records of SWU in 1996. The Illinois Dept, of Ins. did their required quadrennial audit last year, and our auditors will finalize their report for
1997	during our Board meeting in March. Josephine Lustik, past auditor, was appointed to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Marge Church. Josephine will assist this year and next, after which an election will take place for a four-year term at the National Convention in Florida.
Vice President, Kathy Dorchak has gone far beyond the job description as outlined in Article 7:04 of the bylaws. She has acted as an aide, a researcher, a mediator and a mentor. Although our by-laws call for the Vice President to “have the same qualifications” as the President, I am keenly aware that her qualifications far exceed my own. Her help, advice and support have been greatly appreciated by me and the entire Board of Directors.
1 thank all who have contributed their time and talents towards the growth and stability of our Slovenian Women’s Union.
Jean Korsman
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
I am very fortunate to be able to serve the members of the Slovenian Women’s Union as National Vice President. This is truly a rewarding and an educational experience. I thank the members of the National Board for their help and guidance. We have developed a cohensive and hard working team.
I was privileged to attend the Ohio-Michigan Convention last October as their keynote speaker. It was well attended by members and guests. I am looking forward to this year’s event in September. It is always so heartwarming to see old friends and make new ones.
I am in the process of planning the SWU National Convention to be held on May 20-24, 1999 in Orlando, Florida. I hope many of you plan to attend. We should have a wonderful time. Details of events will be printed in future ZARJAs. Please plan to make your arrangements soon.
If anyone has any suggestions or ideas for the convention, please do not hesitate to drop me a line. I would love to hear from you. My address is: 3088 Markle Drive, Silver Lake, OH 44224.
Kathleen Dorchak
NATIONAL SECRETARY
It has been a very busy, rewarding year in our “satellite” office in Bedford, Ohio. The beginning of each year finds us swamped with reports to be completed, billing to be done and tons and tons of mail that results from each function.
The annual statement to the Department of Insurance, Illinois was completed and submitted. We were recently advised that the report was in good order.
The computer system is the best tool that we have to keep track of all our members. When questions do arise as to payments made, we are able to give members dates and check numbers to satisfy their inquiries. Our membership is dwindling mainly due to the demise of our older members. While there are four applications on file for new membership, there are fifteen death benefits to be paid. We have 976 members between the ages of 1-30, while we have 1,117 between the ages of 71-80, and 552 age 81 and over. The remaining membership ranges from age 31-70.
In the Financial Statement it is noted that we are presently operating $15,962.66 over budget. This can be accounted for in the repairs that have been made at the Home Office. A major updating project was undertaken to improve the building, with new windows, a new furnace, airconditioning, etc. Shortly after this was finished, we were hit by extensive water damage to the downstairs from a pipe problem on the second floor. Everything has been restored, painted, a new carpeting is in place and this year (1998) will be a better year financially.
Insurance that had been cancelled because of the claim made at the time of the water damage has been obtained through another agency. Our officers have been bonded and in general we have “all comers covered.”
There are many concerns that need our attention and need to be resolved within the first few months of the year. To let these situations be ongoing will only allow them to grow into bigger problems as the year progresses. The Board was advised of certain situations and asked for their approval of directives to be written. (Such directives were approved and will be completed in the near future.)
ZARJA continues to be not only our most important possession, but our major expense. Cutting back to six issues presents a problem, since the materials/articles to be published require even more pages for the alternate issues. In order to keep ZARJA as it is today, the publication will need to be kept at a maximum of 32-36 pages.
The matter of travel by members of the National Board needs to be addressed. With a dwindling membership, the need for officers to address issues is necessary, however, with ever rising costs, the feasibility of sending officers to State Convention etc., has to be given serious thought. The Board is asked to review our procedures on these requests for Board representation.
The National Secretary extends a thank you to the National Board for their cooperation in moving the Slovenian Women’s Union into the 21st Century. It is our fondest hope that the next decade will see new “life” starting in Zveza.
Evelyn A. Majercik
AUDITING COMMITTEE
The financial report of National Secretary was audited on March 20, 1998, and was found to be in satisfactory order.
First Auditor: Cirila Kermavner Second Auditor: Pat Figurowski Acting Auditor: Josephine Lustik
Slovenian Women’s Union Profit and Loss January through December 1997
Income
Dues Income Heritage Fund
Purchases/Museum Heritage Fund
Total Heritage Fund Interest Income Misc. Income Trans, trust fund Misc. Income - Other
Total Misc. Income Reimb. Expense Scholarship Fund ZARJA Ads Crafts
Keep Connection ZARJA - Other
Total ZARJA
Total Income
Expense
Admin. Stipend Charges Bank
Safe Box Fee
Total Charges Contributions Death Benefit Fee FICA Insurance Insur. Fee Maintenance Misc. Expense Heritage
Misc. Expense - Other
Total Misc Expense Office Supplies Payroll
Federal Withholding tax FUTA
Gross Wages MEDICARE Net Wages Overpayment
Total Net Wages Soc. Security State Withholding tax SUI
Total Payroll Per Diem Petty Cash Postage ZARJA
Postage - Other
Total Postage Printing
Heritage Museum ZARJA
$66,904.40
2,776.00
2,064.05
15,000.00
176.00
4,840.05
42,282.22
15,176.00
6,685.67
10.00
1.190.00
43.00
51.00
1.183.00
2,467.00
138,365.34
789.24
12.00
5,547.16
407.00
522.93
145.76
20,863.96
—2.75
3,960.00
801.24
50.00
17,025.00
225.75
1,581.30
2,211.00
622.62
3,165.75
5,954.16
290.45
9.00
9.00
—21.56
—357.00
118.38
7,944.76
2,937.56
441.78
45,046.00
21,278.72
2,200.00
591.21
Printing - Other
Total Printing Prof Fee Accounting Consulting Prof Fee - Other
Total Prof Fee Rent
Repairs - Bldg
Total Repairs Scholarship T&E Tax
Illinois State Will County
Total Tax Telephone Utilities City Services Elect Gas
Total Utilities
Total Expense
Net Income
593.25
600.00
270.00
250.00
15,378.50
357.00
1,933.30
100.17
787.29
1,255.65
46,081.03
1.120.00
410.64
15,378.50
10.00
3.741.32
3.742.32
2,290.00
1,863.58
2,143.11
144,328.00
—5,962.66
Slovenian Women’s Union As of December 31, 1997
ASSETS
Current Assets Checking/Savings
First Midwest Checking First Midwest Savings
Total Checking/Savings Acccounts Receivable (A/R)
Total Accounts Receivable Other Current Assets First Midwest CD First Midwest Trust Undeposited Funds
Total Other Current
Total Current Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES & EQUITY
Equity Earnings Net Income Open Bal. Equity
Total Equity
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY
$2,340.81
13.377.12
15,717.93
18.098.43
18.098.43
11.065.13 747,213.50
—8.00
758,270.63
792.086.99
792.086.99
27,153.50
—5,962.66
770,896.15
792.086.99
792.086.99
10,882.32
Evelyn A. Majercik
National Secretary
NATIONAL TREASURER
HERITAGE DIRECTOR
At the annual Board meeting in March of 1997, I was authorized by the Board to collect and compile information from each Branch as to their operation and financial condition. I sent questionnaires to sixty-four branches and forty-eight replied.
The main concern expressed by the Branches was that they were unsure of their membership since they have not received a print out of who paid and who was dropped since direct billing.
Seven of the Branches reported that they pay the dues for their members over eighty years of age, another pays the dues for members over ninety years of age and some pay the dues of the members dues who are in a nursing home.
The Branches reported they held five to twelve meetings a year, with five to fifty people attending, depending upon the size of the Branch.
Of the Branches submitting their Treasurer’s report, twenty-five had checking accounts, ten had checking and savings accounts, three had checking accounts along with a certificate of deposit, two has checking and savings accounts and certificate of deposit and two Branches have certificate of deposits only. These accounts are in the Branch’s name.
The proceeds from the Branch’s money-making activities are used for operation of the Branch, i.e. officers salaries, postage, hall rent and socials such as Christmas parties and Mother of the Year parties. Portions are donated to local charities and memorials. Some Branches make yearly donations to S.W.U. Heritage and Scholarship fund, and ZARJA, and Bishop Baraga fund. Other uses as listed were for Convention expense, both regional and national, monetary gifts to Junior members when they reach an accomplishment such as First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and graduation. Some Branches send cards and/or gifts to those members who are hospitalized and send a stipend for Mass and/or flowers for a deceased member.
I feel these Branches are in compliance with the by-laws of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America.
The Branches who did not reply or respond are: 2 Chicago, Br. 6 Barberton, OH, Br. 20 Joliet, Br. 25 Cleveland, Br. 32 Euclid, Br. 40 Lorain, OH, Br. 42 Maple Heights, OH, Br. 45 Portland, OR, Br. 54 Warren, OH, Br. 64 Kansas City, MO, Br. 97 Caimbrook, PA, Br. 99 Elmhurst, IL, Br. 101 Bedford Heights, OH, Br. 105 Detroit, MI, and Br. 108 Virginia Beach, VA.
I was invited to the Illinois/Indiana Regional Convention but I had to decline due to a previous commitment. 1 attended The Minnesota Regional Convention, both as a guest and as a hostess, since it was hosted by my Branch 33 in Duluth, MN.
I have reviewed and agree with the financial report of National Secretary Evelyn Majercik.
Respectfully submitted,
Beverly Menart
FIRST AUDITOR
This past year has been productive for S.W.U., and 1 look forward to another year of working with you as we focus on the future. Especially, I am looking forward to a new cookbook and our national convention in 1999 in Orlando, Florida.
Cirila Kermavner
SECOND AUDITOR
This past year I was invited to a convention in La Salle and accepted.
The home office was in dire need of repairs and refurbishing after major water damage and I helped in any way I could to get this job done. New carpeting was installed as a part of this.
The financial report was audited March 20, 1998 and reports were found to be in order.
Patricia Figurowski
Greetings to the National Board, members of the SWU and the Heritage Heroes of 1997.
This has been a year with varied activities which I’ll detail. In October of 1996, the secretary of each branch received important information about SWU business for 1997. A soccer shirt was also sent in the package with the request that the branch sell or raffle the shirt and send the proceeds to the Heritage Fund. The expected donation per branch was $12.
Many branches responded immediately but others need to be reminded and some branches were sent three reminder letters, which became a very time consuming project for me, since I also sent out a letter of appreciation to each branch that responded with a donation. Branch 2 was the most generous and sent $100 for the shirt. In December of 1997, I was able to finalize the report which is as folows:
The 44 branches that returned the $12 (or more) for the shirt: 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 32, 33, 34, 35, 37, 39, 40, 42, 43, 47, 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 59, 66, 68, 79, 83, 85, 86, 89, 91, 100, 103, 105, 108.
Branch 2 gave $100	70%	cooperation
These 9 branches returned the shirt: 16, 26, 71, 74, 81, 95, 102	14%	returns
These 6 branches claim that they didn’t get the shirt: 6, 38, 73, 101	10%	denials
No response was received from 4 branches after 3 letters requesting at response	6%	no response
These statistics reflect a cooperative response from the majority of branches in the SWU.
A new logo was requested for the aprons and shirts that are being sold by Heritage. I worked with the company in designing new embroidered aprons featuring a red carnation and the organization’s name. A striped cobbler apron was also added to the collection with sizes ranging from lx to 2x. Now, there are three types of aprons that can be ordered. I also prepared a new promotional list showing the current inventory and prices of items that can be ordered from the Heritage Museum.
Lucille Dragovan graciously presented our organization with another beautiful Christmas card design which was printed, advertised in ZARJA and sold to the members. Many thanks to Lucille, for sharing her creativity with the members.
Along with the National Secretary, Evelyn Majercik, I completed the necessary forms requesting a personal property tax exemption for the National Office in Joliet. The application was denied but it was suggested that we re-apply in 1998.
In Autumn, I was in communication with Regional President IL-IN, Bonnie Prokup and as a personal donation, I made one hundred fifty rose lollipops from white chocolate for the IL-IN Convention in October 1997. Tillie Ausich of Branch 103 assisted me with the wrapping of the “pops” and packing them for mailing. Many thanks to Til for her help. She’s always obliging with her time when I need her help.
Sincere appreciation to the many heritage donations received from members. The “HERITAGE HEROES” column continues in every issue of ZARJA and recognizes the donors. Each donation receives a personal letter of thanks from me and the money is sent to the National Secretary for deposit in the Heritage Fund. To the donors for their generosity and to Evelyn Majercik, the National Secretary for handling the funds, sincere appreciation is sent.
My other columns “Heritage News and Views,” along with “Genealogy Notebook,” have continued to be of interest and I receive many letters (which are always answered) from SWU members. Current and past items of interest are placed in these columns and parts of letters concerning genealogy research are sometimes quoted in the “Genealogy Mailbox.”
“Looking back to the future” articles have appeared for the past seven years and this year I featured Branch 2 in the final four installments with compliments to Jean “Daisy” Železnikar for her extensive research and to Corinne Leskovar for additional photos.
“The Next Generation” column appeared featuring a story
by President Jean Korsman; “The Immigrant,” featured the story of “Mary Marinko from Domžale;” the “Poetry Comer,” printed the poem,” ‘Sojourn on the Soča’ by Lillian Brule. Two junior members, Missy McLaughlin of Illinois and Angela Mlakar of California were highlighted in my articles on the Junior’s Page. Junior members are encouraged to send contributions to this page.
Slovenian Museum volunteers participated in Illinois Governor, Jim Edgar’s, “Tribute to Ethnic Women’s Organizations,” on March 18, 1997. Representing the Slovenian Heritage Museum were Patricia Figurowski, Josephine Lustik and Mildred Pucel of Branch 20. Thanks to the ladies for displaying Slovenian crafts, books, cultural items and memorabilia at the event for our Slovenian heritage.
Regrettably, the Slovenian Heritage Museum lost a valued volunteer in the passing of Helen Plut and condolences are offered to the family. Molly Gregorich, Mildred Pucel and Ann Dragovan continue to meet at the Museum and to keep it in order. Jonita Ruth, clerk in the National Office is on hand to welcome guests to the Museum and to sell heritage items.
Correspondence and my ZARJA articles played a prominent role in my daily work. There was also an assortment of miscellaneous jobs which I completed for the SWU during the year, too numerous to mention, but I’m sure that many of the officers and members can say the same about their involvement with the SWU. It was a busy year as usual.
The Heritage Fund Financial Report was prepared by the National Secretary, Evelyn Majercik and we thank her for her work during the year in this regard.
We are very appreciative to all donors, who sent memoriams or purchased heritage gifts and encourage them to continue supporting the Heritage Fund and Museum because without the backing of donors we cannot accomplish the heritage goals. We especially wish to acknowledge all $100 plaque donations received this year: Irene Jagodnik, Sabina Bartol, Jill Augustine, Matilda Ausich and the Lockhart, Vorst, Colson group.
In conclusion, I’d like to thank the National President, Jean Korsman and the National Board for their continued support this past year and to all the branch officers who supported the heritage projects requested of them. Thank you to the Museum volunteers for their continued interest and a special thanks to Editor, Corinne Leskovar, for her assistance and expertise in regards to my ZARJA articles.
On behalf of the SWU, my compliments to the branches who continue to sponsor heritage activities which include projects from bake sales and grape festivals to Slovenian suppers and exhibits. They are encouraged to continue their heritage activities so that the third and fourth generation of American-Slovenians will be acquainted with their unique heritage. Request young women to assist with heritage projects even if they haven’t participated in the past. It is through their involvement and participation that we will continue to keep our Slovenian heritage alive. The “torch” has been passed to us and we must in turn pass it to the next generation.
Respectfully submitted,
Irene M. Odorizzi,
Heritage Director
SCHOLARSHIP FUND DIRECTOR
This past year, 1997, has been the first full year I have served as Director of the SWU Scholarship Program. It has been a busy year. I have received correspondence from many members who are enthused about our program, thus making me very proud to have a part in the function of the Scholarship Fund Program, and as well, always proud to be a member of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America.
The attached 1997 Financial Statement has been audited and approved by our SWU Auditors. Total donations for 1997 are $4,118.60, down from the total 1996 donations of $4,656.00. Expenses were kept to a minimum in part due to Corinne Les-kovar’s kind donation of envelopes.
Although five applications were received in March, 1997, only three awards were given, due to the stipulations that have
been established - “not more than one award can ever be received within a family,” and “only one award can be given within a single branch per year.”
There is a real need to publicize the Scholarship Program in order to generate more interest and greater financial support. This coming fall in preparation for the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of our Program, I hope to write articles on the history and perhaps some of the recipients for promotion not only in ZARJA but in other Slovene publications. At that time our Tax Exempt status will be obtained, and it will be a good additional benefit for those doing estate planning, writing wills, and wanting to give large donations without paying taxes on them.
I send my best wishes to each of you and wish you a very successful Board Meeting.
Mary Turvey, Director
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
For the period beginning January 1, 1997 ending December 31, 1997
Beginning Balance January 1, 1997 Checking Savings
Total checking and savings Income:
Donations Interest Earned CD Checking
Total Income - 1997
$6,193.00
10.664.81
16.857.81
$4,118.60
543.96
126.70
4,789.26
Total Savings, Checking income-1997	$21,647.07
Expenses:
Scholarship director’s annual stipend	$600.00
Postage	86.33
Scholarship Award Payments to
Non-Winners	100.00
Scholarship Award Payments	4,000.00
Attorney fees	180.00
Maintenance on checking account	21.72
Expenses, photocopies,
phone, supplies	112.34
Less total expenses-1997	$5,100.39
Balance as of December 31, 1997
Certificate of Deposit - total value Checking Account balance
$16,546.68
$11,208.77
5,337.91
$16,546,68
Mary Turvey,
Director
EDITOR’S REPORT
Looking over the work of the past year of 1997 is another very rewarding and enjoyable task. So much done, so much planned, so much to look forward to in each issue of ZARJA-THE DAWN! In 1997 we published 8 issues of ZARJA and the main contents were: articles of our regular columnists, namely, the President, Secretary, Heritage Director, Scholarship Director, Cooking Editor and announcements of our SWU events:
65th Anniversary of Br. 50, Cleveland, Las Vegas Excursion, Baraga Statue Fund-raiser, Slovenia Book fund-raiser, Scholarship Winners, Mothers of the Year, New Members’ Listing and we welcomed a new Junior Page contributor. The Minutes of the March, 1997 Board of Directors’ Meeting were published in July-August. The History of one of our two founding branches, No. 2, Chicago,IL continued in a total of 5 issues, concluding in May-June issue.
My deepest thanks to all our columnists, writers and contributors, of course, to the many branch reporters who are always so informative and interesting to read. We appreciate so much the extra notices and articles they send us, such as reports of trips, crafts, member news, etc. May we urge you all to continue to bring such pleasing reading moments to our members and their families who love to read ZARJA. (Know this because so many people tell me!) We were please to list the new members enrolled in 1997, totalling 71 at the time of printing. We are sorry to add to this report the fact that in 1997 we have taken off 194 names from the ZARJA mailing list.
Our thanks to the generous members who have remembered ZARJA with generous donations... they are listed below.
During the later part of the year I was able to prepare and have printed the SWU Ritual Book for all branches and officers to use for meetings and other ceremonies in connection with the branch activities.
There is always an abundance of material coming into the editor’s office and I hope it will always continue this way. Our diligent writers are a blessing to the SWU and we should never discourage them in any way from the wonderful monthly reports we all read and from which we learn so much about the actual standing of the branches, the members, their localities. We can determine the ages and interests of the active membership and see where we are going on our path through the present into the future. We can see that most of our pioneer members are gone, and that in some branches there are no replacements. As has been proven before, wherever there is an active and energetic staff of officers, there is success and progress. In the Branch Histories one can readily see just how much work went into the organizing of the SWU and into maintaining interest all these years since.
So, we have come now to the end of the first 70 years! I hope that there will be many more wonderful years with young, vibrant officers and members leading the way! The past has been a good teacher and ZARJA is the archive in which the story has unfolded, year by year, month by month.
It is a story that could not be told without love, dedication, unselfishness, charity and loyalty. That it has been told at all is to the credit of the SWU administration that has guarded ZARJA so diligently. With the continued great interest of all, I pray that ZARJA lasts forever!
EDITOR’S FINANCIAL RESUME: 1997
Income:
Donations Subscriptions Advertising Memorials Mothers of Year Pix
Expenses:
Postage Telephone Office Supplies
$
742.00
165.00 1,189.00
95.00
80.00
523.30
300.00
15.85
$2,271.00
839.15
I wish to extend special thanks to the generous donors of substantial amounts who are as follows:
Branch 2, Chicago, IL - $250, Irene Jagodnik (Br. 50) -$100, Josephine Lustig (Br. 20) - $60, Jill Augustin (Br. 103)
-	$50, Barbara Bruch (Br. 89) - $30, Br. 23, Ely, MN - $25, Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH - $25, Br. 20, Joliet, IL - $20, Br. 14, Euclid, OH - $50.
Corinne Leskovar
Report sent by Regional President, MN,
Charlotte Laurich:
On May 14th last year we held our President’s Luncheon meeting. All of the branch presidents and any other interested members are invited to attend the luncheon which is held in a centrally located town. Each president is asked to discuss any problems or activities that her branch may be having. It is a great opportunity for the presidents to get acquainted and compare notes. It also gives me a chance to up-date my branch officer’s roster. Last year we had one of our largest and most productive meetings. The one thing that frustrated all of the branches is that they did not have an up to date listing of their active members. Hopefully something can be done about that in the near future.
The state convention is the highlight of the year and is always well attended. Duluth hosted last year’s very successful convention.
Upon taking inventory of our Minnesota Slovenian Women’s Union, we have 9 active branches. All of those branches honor a Mother of the Year, or all Mothers. They also have Christmas or Advent Parties. Aurora also has a Valentine Party. Most of them remember their members who are shut-ins. They also participate in some way in the funerals for their deceased members.
In June of last year, the Duluth Branch hosted Bishop Baraga Day, which was held at St. Elizabeth Church. At that time many of our branches made monetary donations to the Bishop Baraga Memorial. Many of our branches also donate to other worthy causes in their communities.
In order to make these donations the branches are kept busy with fund raisers. Just to name a couple that I am aware of -Duluth has a spaghetti feed, Chisholm has a yearly Election Day Chicken Noodle Soup luncheon and noodle sale which becomes more successful every year. They also have an annual card party which is open to the public. Aurora raises money with their silent auction.
Four of our branches have been able to enroll new members. Three are managing to hold their own, but unfortunately a couple of our branches are showing a declining membership.
During the last year, National President Jean Korsman and I attended Mother of the Year banquets in Ely and Tower-Soudan. Both were very well attended and were beautiful tributes to their honored Mothers, Sally Davidson in Ely, and Angeline Pirtz in Tower-Soudan. I want to thank both branches for their invitation and hospitality. I would also like to thank all of the branch officers for their hard work and for the co-operation given me during the past year.
I recently spoke with the president of Branch 81, and she said to me “We have only a few members, but we still hold 4 or 5 meetings a year, and have our Christmas party and Mother’s Day breakfast.” I couldn’t help thinking to myself, if we could only enroll some young members with the dedication and determination of the older members in our branches, the Slovenian Women’s Union would continue to have healthy and productive future.
Report sent by Regional President, IL-IN,
Bonnie Prokup:
• After the 1996 election I sent letters to every branch asking for meeting dates and invitations for special events. Besides my own branch I was invited to the following:
- Branch 2 1996 Christmas Party for children
- Branch 2 Penny Social
- Branch 2 Zveza Days in Lemont
- Branch 20 Grape Fest
*	I was able to attend the 1996 Children’s Christmas Party and the Grape Fest.
• I sent in an article to ZARJA on my second trip to Slovenia.
• I sent reminders to all branches regarding the 1997 Illinois/ Indiana State Convention.
- We had representation from every branch except for
two.
- Branch 5 from Indiana had two representatives, the first time they sent someone in several years.
• Along with the reminders I sent out agenda questionnaires for each branch to complete and mail back to me prior to the convention. I had a better response this year as opposed to 1996.
• I invited all of our national officers to attend our 1997 Illinois/Indiana State Convention. I received acknowledgement letters from all but one national officer. Their regret letters were read at the Convention. In addition the following officers sent:
- Mary Turvey donated a check to the convention, which I used to buy mints. I put them in a nice basket at the banquet along with a note recognizing our Scholarship Director.
- I also received a box of white chocolate suckers made by Irene Odorizzi. These suckers were placed at each setting at the banquet.
• I sent a great offer to National President Jean Korsmen. I really wanted her to be there so I made sure she couldn’t refuse.
- offered her a cheap fare to fly to Chicago
- picked her up at the airport
- took her to Joliet to visit with Jonita Ruth at home office
- provided accommodations, food and entertainment
We were so lucky to have her with us and enjoyed her
company.
• At the State Convention I offered to sell Heritage items like I did the year before. I had a beautiful display set up at the meeting and the banquet. I was lucky to have a junior member there to help me sell. Together we sold almost $400.00 worth of items. I ran out of the Slovenia book and the new aprons. Both items sold out quickly.
• I mailed Christmas cards to officers and branches within my region along with reminders to send in their January reports earlier.
• I enrolled two very active members into Branch 24.
- Linda Struna became an auditor and co-chairman for the Christmas Party.
- Mary Mecum arranged all of the flowers for the State Convention and was the other co-chairman for the Christmas Party.
• Throughout the year I corresponded with Evelyn Majercik over concerns regarding dues.
I enjoy serving The Slovenian Women’s Union of America as the Illinois/Indiana State President!
Report sent by Regional President, WI, Joan Yaklich:
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Branch #20 on their 70th Anniversary on October 4, 1998.
Our Branches in Wisconsin have been busy as usual. There have been Masses for the living and deceased members, Mother of the Year celebrations, visits to Nursing Homes, Bake Sales, Christmas Parties and Valentine Parties and they also play their favorite game after the meetings. Branch 102 in Willard also has Strudel Day, Hunters Bake Sale and in the Spring a Plant Sale.
Because it was voted on at the State Convention in Sheboygan in 1996 that there be a State Convention every other year there was no Convention in 1997.
Branch 12 will host a Convention in 1998, but as yet we do not have a date, because it was going to be on October 4,
1998	but Joliet Branch 20 is having their 70th Anniversary, so we will look at a different date so that we can have at least one or more of the National Officers attending our Convention.
Everyone is waiting for their bill to come from Headquarters and also for a computerized list of their members to be sent to the Secretary so that they know what members have been dropped. This is a great help to the Secretary.
Again I hope that when Branch 12 does have their Convention that one or more of the National Officers will attend.
Sincere wishes.
SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS
1998-1999 SWU Scholarship Fund winners write of personal experiences and values of their Slovene heritage. These beautiful young people will continue to represent Slovene Americans with pride and tradition in America. May God be with each of them.
Zachary Pucel: Zach thanks the SWU Scholarship Program for his award and will begin classes on August 25 at Kiswaukee Community College.
Matthew Slaten: Matthew will begin his college education as a freshman at the University of Denver and is grateful for his award which will help with expenses.
Angela Mlakar: Angela is very proud to be a 1998—
1999	winner of a SWU Scholarship. Her mother was the first to receive a SWU award west of the Mississippi. Angela will begin schooling at Cal Poly Pomona University in September.
Elizabeth Fon: Elizabeth would like to thank the SWU Scholarship Program for her award, which will be used as she enters a liberal arts program at Carthage College this fall.
Mary Turvey, Scholarship Fund Director
MY HERITAGE AND CULTURE
Zachary Pucel Br. 20, Joliet, IL
I don’t know much about the history of my family or where they came from. But the information that I do know is contained in my album book.
It all began with the arrival of my great, great, grandparents, Simon and Mary Setina from Slovenia. They settled in the Slovenian community of Joliet, where they became involved in the Slovenian parish of St. Joseph Church. Simon was a stone-cutter. His work can be seen throughout the cemeteries of Joliet. Mary owned a candy and ice cream shop, catering to the students of St. Joseph School.
The next couple of pages show the life of my maternal great grandparents, Joe and Josephine Erjavec. They took many trips back to Slovenia, expressing their deep attachment to their heritage and culture. They were also involved in fraternal work.
The following pages tell about my paternal great grandparents, Joe and Anna Pucel, who arrived in Joliet via Pueblo, CO. They emphasized practicing Slovenian customs, which included melodious song and ethnic cooking.
My life has been filled with Slovenian culture since I was bom. Throughout the years my grandparents influenced me in my Slovenian ancestry and heritage. They stressed the importance of being involved in church activities. I recall the fun times when I volunteered to decorate for the Grape Festival - a Slovenian tradition, sponsored by Branch 20. I was proud to see that my grandparents in their Slovenian
My scrapbook photo
Grandmother, Mildred Pucel and I (age 7), wave to the crowd with Helen Plut joining us at a parade in Joliet in 1987.
costumes were a part of the evening activities, along with myself, which included the Mayor of the Year and the enjoyable task of stealing of the grapes from the arbor without getting caught, and the Polka band playing all the favorite Slovenian melodies for our dancing pleasure. Although I didn’t like it sometimes, I appreciate the effort and time my grandparents, Rudy and Millie, took to make me aware of my true foundation. When looking back I can now say that I am glad that I participated and involved myself with my heritage. My picture album tells a great deal of all my Slovenian ancestors who unknowingly have instilled in me their abiding Slovenian Culture and Heritage. I am proud to be a Slovenian.
MY HERITAGE AND CULTURE
by Elizabeth Fon Br. 5, Indianapolis, IN
For as long as I can remember, our holidays were always filled with the delicious smell of freshly baked potica and attending the Slovenian masses at Holy Trinity, the Slovenian church in Indianapolis, Indiana. Picnics and dances with polka music and homemade sausage were part of our weekends as well as sponsoring different singing and dancing groups from Europe. Trips to Lemont, Illinois came at least once every summer to visit the big Slovenian Cultural Center and to attend their cookout at the monastery picnic grounds.
Almost 100 years ago, my great grandparents made the journey to the United States. Unlike many others that followed, they were not fleeing the wars and other troubles in their home country. They came because they wanted to, to grasp great opportunities and to raise a family. Because of their hopes and dreams, three new generations have come about. Although my family ranges from California to Pennsylvania, we all share our strong Slovenian heritage that we are all proud of.
Even though not very many people have heard of Slovenia, we are one of the largest active Eastern European ethnic groups here in Indianapolis. We helped build the city during its industrial expansion at the turn of the Twentieth Century. Still today, we involve the community to share in our culture with the concerts that we hold.
I myself am very proud of my heritage. Not only am I in a community where there are others from the same background that I come from, but I am surrounded by people
who are just as proud. My great grandparents left my family with one thing that holds us all together, our heritage. I hope that my children and their children and the generations to come have the pride that I have for my background as well as all the sausage and potica they can eat!
MY HERITAGE AND CULTURE
by Angela Mlakar Br. 100, Fontana, CA
There are many ways in which my heritage plays a key role in my life. For me, being Slovenian is a privilege. This privilege has been handed down to me for generation after generation, and it is still going strong. I, along with my cousins, have been raised in the type of environment that allows you to never doubt where you’ve come from. From family gatherings at Christmas and Easter to the old-fashioned polka dances, we all represent something unique. Many children are raised not knowing their family heritage. I often feel sorry for them because they aren’t given the opportunity to appreciate all that their ancestors have done for them.
People ask me what my nationality is and I say to them, “I’m Slovenian.” Slovenia is a place that most people have never heard of, so this gives me the chance to tell them about it. My friends know me as the ‘Slovenian girl’ because it is different and it stands out. I take great pride in being part of such a special culture and I hope someday that I will be able to pass it on to children of my own.
MY CULTURE AND HERITAGE
by Matthew Slaten Br. 3, Pueblo, CO
My culture and heritage are an integral part of my life. The myriad of ethnic customs in which my family participates has definitely contributed to the person I am today.
The custom of putting my special bowl out on December 5th (eve of St. Nicholas Day) to be filled with treats, is a ritual at our house. I also look forward to eating the breakfast food blessed at Žegen each Easter.
Foods such as krofe, žinkrofe, ysperen and potica are other staples of my culture that I couldn’t do without. Learning Slovenian phrases from my grandfather is an experience that allows me to not only learn the language of my ancestors but to spend time with the people who are important to me.
Conclusively, I believe that I am the person I am today, in part, because of my culture for which I have a true love and pride.
rortnMi by
c^-fzritacjs, tzJVzvJS, and O/isuji.
Irene Planinšek Odorizzi
HERITAGE HEROES
Thank you to the latest Heritage Heroes who sent donations to the Heritage Fund-Museum. We are grateful to each and every member for his contribution. A letter was sent to each donor in appreciation for his/her donation from the Heritage Director.
$5.00 - Donated by members of Branch 54 and sent by Joanne B. Ponikvar, Secretary of Br. 54 in memory of Thomas Brdek, son of Anne Brdek.
National Treasurer, Beverly Menart and her husband Tony, remembered Heritage once again with three checks as follows:
$10 - in memory of Agnes Skull.
$10 - in memory of George Mikrut.
$10 - in memory of John Bobence, husband of former SWU National President, Victoria Bobence.
Two checks were sent by Irene Jagodnik formerly a National Auditor and secretary of her branch as follows:
$10 - in congratulations to Ann Winter who was selected Mother of the Year for Branch 50.
$10 - for the Heritage Fund-Museum.
$20 - In memory of John Bobence, husband of former National President Victoria Bobence. Donated by Kenneth & Irene Odorizzi.
$15 - In memory of Josephine Nowak and donated by Mrs. Kay Yuratovac, Secretary of Br. 73.
$10 - In memory of Josephine Nowak, member of Br. 73 Warrensville Hts. and donated by Mr. and Mrs. Ed Ozog.
$10 - Anka Krakovc sent a donation from the members of Girard Slovenian Ladies #55 in memory of Nancy Dom-brosky.
$20 - Donation from Anne C. Yoger in memory of Josephine Nowak.
$5 - Donation from Br. 73 in memory of sister member, Josephine Nowak.
Condolences are sent to all of the families of the members listed. We wish to also acknowledge the recent death of John Bobence, husband of the past National President, Victoria Bobence of Ely, Minnesota. May he and all our members rest in peace.
DONATION FOR PLAQUE RECEIVED
I’d like to acknowledge the generous donation of $100 which was sent for the Museum Plaque in the name of the members of Branch 85 by Mary Jermene, Secretary-Trea-surer. Thank you ladies for contributing to the Heritage Fund & Museum which is dependent upon the contributions of members for its continuation. You will be permanently remembered for your generosity on the plaque.
SLOVENIAN GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
SWU member, George Plautz of Fairfax, VA invited my husband, Ken and I to meet at the home of SWU member Carol Ryba in Sterling, VA for a meeting of the SGS in April. The meeting centered around genealogy and the members present discussed the methods used to research their ancestral heritage. It was a time of sharing information, meeting new SGS members in the area and enjoying Slovenian hospitality as provided by Carol Ryba.
It is amazing to see how many third and fourth generation American-Slovenians are pursuing this field of research. They want to know about their ancestors and are “hooking up” with individuals throughout the United States in this pursuit.
If you are one of these individuals who would like to become familiar with other American-Slovenians researchers and have an E-Mail address which you wish to share in this column please send it to me and it will be published so that you can contact other genealogical buffs. Write to: SWU Heritage Director,
2362 Paddock Lane, Reston, VA 20191
NAVAL HERITAGE CENTER
The preservation of records and photos through computers is becoming more popular. Recently, I became acquainted with another important way when Ken and I attended the Memorial Day tribute at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C.
After the moving service, we entered the Naval Heritage Center and became aware of the “Log Room” in which naval service records are recorded of America’s sea services’ living or deceased members.
Presently there is an enrollment of over a quarter-mil-lion names and tens of thousands of photographs. This “Log” is on continuous display in the Navy Log Room. The touch of a video screen brings into view the entry for any individual in the Log along with a photo, tour of duty, rank, service dates, and awards. Once the information is on the screen, an attractive certificate can be obtained of that information.
Since many American-Slovenian young men and women served in the U.S. Navy or the Waves, it is important that their names be listed. If you know of a relative or friend whose military record has not yet been submitted write to the following address for information and the required form to complete:
U.S. Navy Memorial Log P.O. Box 96570 Washington, D.C. 20077-7685 Phone (202) 737-2300 extension 730
SUPPORT YOUR ORGANIZATION
SUPPORT YOUR HERITAGE FUND
flCTIUlTIES
NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Meeting: 2nd Thurs. St. Stephen’s lower hall
News of the Zveza Picnic - July 19
We were very fortunate again this year, because mother nature provided us with a beautiful hot, sunny day. Every once in awhile we would catch a breeze but that’s part of picnics. Thanks to everyone who attended, to our sisters of Br. 20, Joliet, (there were 25 members), Angie Nico from LaSalle, a guest from Canada, Germany and this year we were entertained by a group of young girls from Slovenia, 30 Acrobatic Gymnasts called “FLIP” and 5 coaches. They were Eastern European winners. Everyone enjoyed their performance.
As always, we started our day with a beautiful Mass, celebrated by Father Vendelin and later in the afternoon, Vespers at the St. Mary’s Grotto. Music by the Heritage Ensemble Vince’s little son Jason really topped the day by singing Slovenian songs with the band. Our chance-book winner again this year was Delores Puhek with 178 and Barbara Kosi with 12.
Listed below are the raffle winners:
#1 - $250 - Angie Blatnik; #2 -Bread Maker - Millie Persa; #3 - Afghan - Jos. Squok; #4 - Boom Box -Eddie Zavala; #5 - Proctor Iron - D. Puhek; #6 - Proctor Toaster - R.M. Krapenc; #7 - Anchor Hocking 2/Pc Cake Plate/Dome - R.M. Krapence; #8 - Lg. Rabbit & Baby - R.M. Krapence; #9 - Rival Crock Pot - Carlos Brown; #10 - Cotton Trow - M. Frolik; #11 - Food Chopper - J. Rodilla; #12 - Hand Mixer - Helen Petrich; #13 - Mary Ann’s Shp Gift Cert. - M. Pacholski; #14 - Phillips Shoe Store Cert. - J. Newbould; #15
-	Wagner’s Bakery Gift Cert. - Fran Morison; #16 - Burdean Shoes Gift Cert. - Jean Hrastar - #17 - Card City Gift Cert. - Sophie Tulo; #18 -Berwyn Finer Foods Gift Cert. - Meta Hanzlik; #19 - Burdeen Shoes Gift Cert. - Mary Jagar; #20 - Fleetwood Florist - Floral Basket - Dorothy Foral; #21 - Picnic Basket - Frank Pflum;
#22 - Lava Lamp - Pavla Mavec; #23
- Lava Lamp - Mary Gorkis; #24 -Handbag - Frank Kremesec and #25
- Makeup - John Mitchell.
If you enjoyed the food you purchased at the kitchen, thank our members who donated most of it. Thanks to Fran Morison - Sloppy Joes; Marija Rigler
- Slovenian Potato Salad; Jean Hrastar
- Baked Beans; Amelia Smith, 6 cakes and Sauerkraut; Amy Taylor - 6 poticas; Millie Paisoli - Strudel; Irene Smid - Cake; Helen Fitzgerald - Cake; Jean Gale - 2 Cakes; Meta Hanzlik -Cake; Daisy-Cup Cakes; Mary Vrhovnik - Cake; Ann Hozzian - Cake; Mae Fabian - Onions.
Thanks also the members who worked in the kitchen - it was a hot time by the old stove but, like warriors, we stood our ground: Jean Gale; Meta Hanzlik, Mary Vrhovnik; Jack Gale; Jennie Oblak; Daisy; and to Katie Buol who really gave it all at Ye Ole Tavern. What a job she did!
Thanks to all our members who worked to make this picnic a success.
Our condolences to the family of Mary Ferenchak Foys, to her daughter, Kathy (Tom) Antizak and their family April Ann, April Rose, and Heather; her son, Ronnie (Susan) and his son, Andrew. Mary will be missed and remembered by her beautiful smile and happy disposition. It was always a pleasure to be in her company. Please remember her in your prayers.
Our condolences also to Sally Bogo-lin and her daughter, Virginia Guertin in the loss of husband/father, Tony Bogolin, after a long illness. He was a member of St. Stephen’s and lived in the area for over 90 years. Please remember them in your prayers that they will rest in peace.
Don’t forget Slovenian Day Festival on Oct. 17th at the Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont. Many of our members belong to the Slovenian American Radio Club who are celebrating their annual event with a cultural program and dance. Fantje na vaši men’s chorus is coming from Cleveland to perform.
October 3 and 4th - We will be going to the 70th Anniversary of Br. 20, Joliet, IL. Should be a lot of fun. See you there.
"If you keep a smile tucked away in your heart, it’s easy to keep one on your face.”
Love,	DAISY
NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO Meeting: 1st Tues.
St. Mary’s Church Hall
Summer has come and gone - hope everyone had a good one.
Being there are no meetings during the summer, I have no contact with a lot of our members, but I do know some have done some traveling and many have attended the graduations of their grandchildren.
Among our travelers were Katherine Kochevar and daughter Judy who had an enjoyable trip to Hawaii. Helen Skul and daughter Luan toured Europe. Some of the places they visited were London, Switzerland and Italy which included Florence, Venice and Rome. Sally Glavich spent some time in St. Louis, Missouri visiting with friends. Mary Tekavec and her friend Louise Turley enjoyed their trip to Antonito riding on the Toltec-Cumbres Railway. I had the pleasure of visiting with my daughter, Patricia and her family in Mansfield, MA, which is just outside of Boston.
It might be of interest to our members that Jennie Koshak is a resident of Life Care Center and Frances Simonich at Int. Health Services, formerly Pueblo Manor. Also we lost a long time member, Dolores Klun. We extend condolences to her family. We will have a memorial tribute for her when our meetings resume in October.
It was with heavy hearts that we learned that Bernice Krašovec, Secretary in the Tri-Parish Community, specifically St. Mary’s, resigned Aug. 1. Bernice has been a great asset to our Parish and will be greatly missed, however we are thankful she will continue as Secretary of the Prayer Garden and historian of the John Gomick Slovenian Library and Parish Museum as a volunteer.
It might be of interest to everyone to know the John Gomick Slovenian Library is now on the internet. Interest-
ing visitors recently were Mr. Goyko Zupan and Mr. Mitja Ferenc, Ministers of Culture from Slovenia. Goyko, who has written 5 books, gave the library an autographed copy of one about Cankar, written in English. Other visitors were the Ohlde family from Lindsborg, Kansas, who were researching Mrs. Ohlde’s family birthplace and Martin and Vera Globočnik from Denver, having just returned from Slovenia. They brought 3 honey bread artifacts as gifts for the museum (an art that is fastly fading away). The loaves were made 40 years ago by Martin’s sister, Frances. They also donated two large picture books of Slovenia. The library is open every Wednesday afternoon or anytime by appointment.
The KSKJ National Convention was held at the Double Tree Inn in Colorado Springs, August 13 and 14. It was culminated with a Polka Mass at St. Mary’s Church August 15 with the Prešeren Glee Club Choir singing accompanied by Rich Eurich and a dinner-dance followed at St. Joseph’s Lodge.
The Cripple Creek trips are still going strong thanks to Jo Poder and Rudy Krašovec, Sr. For reservations contact Jo Poder 542-6528.
Let’s remember the home-bound, the sick and the grieving in our prayers.
Our next meeting will be October 6
-	please make an effort to attend if at all possible.
PAULINE PAUCHICK
NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Meeting: 3rd Thurs.
St. Peter’s Church Hall except July & Aug.
Summer months, no meetings, but the Convention Committee has been meeting to put the State Convention together. It’s Sept. 27th at St. Mary’s Help of Christians Church for Mass and Banquet. I hope you have all purchased your banquet tickets. As you know, we only get ZARJA every two months now, and I know we will have more details at the Sept. 17th meeting. Reports will be made then. Also, we will celebrate president Stavia Dobersek’s birthday, and the July and August birthdays, belatedly.
Many Slovenian picnics were held and the sun smiled on all of them - so this year should be successful.
The Milwaukee community had a
very entertaining concert sponsored by the USPEH chorus which celebrated 20 years this year. The Dr. Bogdan Derc Chorus from Ljubljana, Slovenia performed, along with the USPEH singers at St. Mary’s Help of Christians Church. It was outstanding. I heard them in 1991 when they were here and I think this group was better and better. If you missed the performance be sure to come to their next performance as these people put in a lot of time for our pleasure. Not only is the chorus great but with the help of many friends, the buffet table was a sight to see at the reception. Tickets read “light lunch and dessert” - but enormous platters of fruit, cheese, sausage, veggies, salads,
3	meats - all arranged so beautifully. I was sorry I ate a little something at home before the concert! The dessert table was loaded with Slovenian desserts. Where can you go and hear nine button-box players playing together, alternating with the Eddie Vidmar band? Continuous music, singing, and dancing. It takes many people to put on a thing like this. So, altho I can’t mention all the many names of all those who had a hand in putting together this great day, and taking care of our visitors, all we can say is thank you very much!
Tony and Tončka Vodnik sat at our table, but we did very little socializing -just taking in every moment of joy!
At this writing Ann Jelinek is in the hospital for surgery; Josepine Rozman is in for tests, too. We wish them well. Jenny Ward sent me a card. She is out of the hospital. Stay well, Jenny. Saw Carolyn Imped at the Mission Picnic. Stay well and hope to see you all at the Sept. 17th meeting.
P.S. Just heard Mary Dezman is at Mercy Rehabilitation Center, 2727 W. Mitchell St. I’m sure she would appreciate a card from you.
Stay happy and healthy.
MARY KIEL
NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Meeting: 1st Thurs. Slovenian Hall on Mariposa St.
We have no meetings during the summer, so don’t have much news -but we do a lot of travelling!
I know that I truly wait for each ZARJA now that we only get one every two months. I never wanted to see it come to that, but I’m grateful we have
such a wonderful magazine.
I received a delightful note from Lucille Olaf from Br. 33 in Duluth. She said she reads Br. 13 articles every time, having met us at the 1995 Convention. I feel exactly the same way and read ZARJA cover to cover. What a joy it is to meet the people in person that you have been reading about for years. But, isn’t that what SWU is all about? FRIENDSHIP, HERITAGE and COMMON INTEREST! Thank you for your kind thoughts, Lucille.
We had a beautiful Luncheon in June, honoring our 50-year members: Rose Scoff, Mary Wraa and Betty Doherty. A delightful day, good food and wonderful people. Ruby Hazen won the coveted hand-crocheted afghan.
On July 28th Rose Scoff celebrated her 99th birthday! Those who know Rose know what fun she is and are amazed that she is till the same! Happy Birthday, Rose!
We will be back to our meetings Sept. 3rd at the Slovenian Hall. Bring a bag lunch. Dessert will be provided.
Remember, when bad things happen to you, you should keep the lesson but throw away the experience.
Hope to see you in September!
BEVERLY JACKSON
NO. 14, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 1st Tues., 6 p.m. SIov. Society Home
Special Reminder! Tuesday, September 1 is the day of our annual Family Day Picnic to be held rain or shine, at the home of Pres. Martha Koren at 30334Ridge Rd. (Rte. 84) at 2:00p.m. Members are requested to bring a side dish or dessert. Call either Marty at 440-585-4227 or Jennie Fitzthum at 216-261-1196 to let us know if you will attend. Hope to see you there!
Sunshine lady Rose Rodgers has sent a greeting card to member Frieda Miller who is residing at Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Mark Nursing Home. Condolences to Mary Gerl on the death of her granddaughter. May our merciful Lord and His dear Mother Mary grant comfort to the families of our dear departed.
Mark your calendars ladies! Tuesday, December 1 at 6:00 p.m. is when we will hold our Annual Christmas Party and Dinner. Don’t forget to bring gifts for door prizes. To make reservations for yourself and friends call Marty
or Jennie at the above numbers for your reservations. We are assured of a fun evening with some of the best home cooked food available!
Stay cool and enjoy a restful Labor Day!
ALICE KUHAR
NO. 16, SO. CHICAGO, IL j^M^Jeeting: 2nd Saturday, 1 p.m. I^JJsgthly except Jan.-July-Aug.
St. George’s Hall
Can you believe that this ZARJA is coming to you when it is already Fall? Tempus really does fugit! I hope that you have nice remembrances of the summer.
Our last meeting was attended by fourteen members. We always enjoy our meetings and each other’s company. Could you possibly try to share a couple of hours of your precious time on the 2nd Saturday of the months in which we meet and come to our meetings? You will be warmly welcomed.
We discussed the State Convention which will be held on Oct. 4th in Joliet. We also talked about the National Convention coming up in May, 1999. Orlando, Florida is the designated city. Come and give our delegate some input at the next few meetings when we will be discussing the organization. This is important for the good of our branch and the entire SWU. Maybe some of you will want to attend the Convention as guests. Please do so!
Mary Therese Ehnat suggested (it was then voted on) that we have a group birthday party, and party we did! Twenty-nine of us met at Gaddini’s for a delicious meal and birthday cake. The celebrants were: Manda Maggio (75), Tina Sertich (75), Helen Milanovich (80), Me (80) and Marie Vidovich, our 90-year old youngster who could not make it. She was ill. A grateful thank you to all who attended this nice party and made us all feel so good.
July 12th was my big day - the celebration arranged by all of my loving family at my Rose Marie’s home in Munster, IN. It was a super day. I was surrounded by family, relatives and friends. The setting (beautiful yard) -the delicious food - and the weatherman gave us a perfect day! My friends all enjoyed the day, too. (I would like to tell you all about it, but you would think I am bragging!) It just made me want to go on to 90!
Our Dotsi Rossi’s granddaughter, Gianna Rossi should be on her way to a stage career. I heard that her performance as the Abbess in Sound of Music was superb. Congratulations.
Visitors: Grandma and grandpa Strubel were entertained for three weeks by their three grandchildren from Rochester, MN. By the way, they did bring along their parents, Jan and Susan Strubel. Eddie and Pat Lustig visited family and friends for three weeks. Mom, Ana was especially happy to see them. They have retired to Glendale, AZ.
Dorothy Perak visited her son, Dennis in Lodi, CA for two weeks. Her travel-mates were her daughter, Debbi and granddaughter, Jessica. Dorothy also added a year on July 29th. She says she’s 39! Sure she is!
Mary Theresa Ehnat visited her uncle in Eagle River, WI. God’s country, isn’t it?
More visitors: Andrea and Ed Krai had a delightful six day visit with then-daughter and granddaughter, Ashley from California. Ed and Andrea are heading for that famous honeymoon spot (of yore), Niagara Falls. In October they are on their way to Calif, and then to Reno. Golly, once they retire you just can’t keep them down on the farm!
Congratulations to Kay and Bob Jurincie on forty-five years of wedded bliss.
Guess who’s off on another trip? If you said “Gladys”, you’d win the prize! Now she is off to cruise the Alaskan waters for seven days. She and Barb Ireland, her niece, will be enjoying the luxury and beauty of the Rhapsody of the Sea cruise ship. Have fun, girls!
Congratulations to our Berenice Jar-kovich on the birth of her third grandson, Andrew. He was welcomed by big brothers, John and Jacob.
When you say your daily prayers please remember all of our members, especially Clara Saviano, Julie Vrlich and Zinka Shesek. Zinka tripped in her yard and suffered facial injuries.
Our condolences to Ana Lustig, Marty Bublich and Manda Maggio, and their families, on the loss of their sister-in-law, Rose Bublich. May she rest in peace.
My closing thought:
The kindly word that falls today may bear fruit tomorrow!
MARGE PREBIL
#NO. 20, JOLIET, IL Meeting: 3rd Tues. except June to Sept. St. Joe’s Park Hall
Annual Grape Festival September 27th
We hope we will all attend our annual Grape Festival, Vinska Trgatev, on Sunday, Sept. 27th from
4	to 8 p.m. at St. Joe’s Park Hall. Bob Doszak’s fine orchestra will delight everyone with music and there will be plenty of good food. The Slovenian custom of celebrating the wine harvest will entertain you. Admission is only $5 per person, children under 16 are free!
A reminder to you all about our 70th Anniversary celebration, Oct. 4. Reservations need to be in by Sept. 17. Send $20.00 check to: Lillian Stefanich, 1112 Rosary Lane, Joliet, IL 60435 or call (815) 725-7217. The Empress is beautiful and promises to be the perfect setting for having a good time. You may even want to try your luck and make a vacation out of your visit and stay at Empress Hotel across from the Casino. Come and help us celebrate!
Hot weather did not stop people from attending the picnics at St. Joseph Park. Special class reunions were enjoyed by the Class of 1973 (25 years), Class of 1938 (60 years), Class of 1948 (50 years) and the Class of 1923 (75 years). It’s always great fun to meet with old classmates and discuss the school days at St. Joe’s School.
Stefanich’s Restaurant celebrated 65 years as a Joliet landmark, originally owned by Anna Stefanich and Christina Kuzma, specializing in delicious fried chicken. Ron Sterle, recent owner has expanded his menu, but still clings to the original “homey” atmosphere.
Congratulations to Donna Markum, winner of 9 different awards from St. Joe’s school, an unbelievable accomplishment. Nice going, Donna!
Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. John Ukovich on their 50th Wedding Anniversary, also to Mr. & Mrs. Walter
SWU Crest indicates the 70th Anniversary of this branch in 1998.
Congratulations!
BRANCH 20, JOLIET, ILLINOIS 70TH ANNIVERSARY October 4, 1998!
FESTIVITIES INCLUDE:
Breakfast at 8:30 in Ferdinand Hall followed by a 9:30 meeting.
Polka Mass at 11:30 in St. Joseph’s Church then Dinner at 1:30 at the Empress’Grand Ballroom
Please wear your Slovenian National Costume Slovenian costumes are so beautiful and we urge anyone who has one to wear it for the 70th Anniversary festivities. Men and women and children...please come in costume and participate in the Polka Mass with us!
Ticket Deadline is Sept. 15th Tickets are $20; deadline for purchase is Sept. 15th. No tickets will be sold at the door - and payment is required in advance.
Plan a mini-weekend!!
Enjoy the Express Hotel and Casino!
Rooms at the Empress Hotel have been set aside for October 2,3,4.
When registering for a hotel room, use the name SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION for the special rates.
Rates are $63 plus tax for a double room.
For more information please contact:
Pat Figurvwski (815) 741-1863 or
Jonita Ruth (815) 726-6990 & (815) 727-1926
How to get to St. Joseph Church in Joliet
Plese on their 40th Anniversary and to Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Grisham on their 25th Anniversary.
And congratulations to the newly weds. Bob and Gina Kaluza, married June 10th. Hope that you have many happy years together as our preceding three couples have.
Here are our new “little people” bom recently! Victor and Jean Pucel have a girl, Rachel Ann, the first girl in 48 years bom to the Rudy and Millie Pucel family. Just goes to prove “all things come to those who wait”! A baby boy was bom to Tom and Janet Schatz. Grandparents Pat and Bob Figurowski are proud to welcome a visit recently from Elizabeth Claire, their new grand baby with parents Vicki and Harem Gonzoles.
Get well wishes to Robert Horvatin. Hope you are feeling o.k. after your recent operation.
Please include John W. Horvat in your prayers. He passed away June 12th at his residence. Our sympathy to his daughter and all his other relatives.
Hope that you all enjoy our ZARJA.
and to the Empress Casino Ballroom
To Joliet, Illinois from Chicago:
Take 1-55 heading south and exit on Rt. 53 (Joliet exit). Take Rt. 53 to Ruby St., turn left and go over the bridge. Bear right where Rt. 53 becomes Chicago St. Go three blocks to St. Joseph church -you’ll see the high steeples. Park anywhere in the vicinity. Our SWU Home Office is directly across from the church on Chicago St.
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Please call me if you would like me to include your news. (815) 727-3177.
Congratulations to Mary and Stanley Marolt on their 50th wedding anniversary. Mary was SWU Br. 20 Treasurer 1975 - 1986 and National Treasurer 1976-1983. And, happy 90th birthday to Ann Kobe!
New little people: a girl bom to Mark and Colleen Starasinich, a boy for Daniel and Jill Petrak and a great grandson for Marie Scheidt. Get well wishes to Marge Glanek and to Ron Strle!
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Br. 20, Joliet, Illinois is inviting everyone to an informal get-together on Saturday evening, October 3, 1998, the evening before the 70th Anniversary celebration and lltinois-Indiana State Convention!
It will take place at St. Mary Nativity cafeteria, 706 No. Broadway in Joliet, 7 to 10 p.m.
Special guests are:
Slovenian Ambassador to the U.S.
Dr. Dimitri Rupelj and Mrs. Rupelj from Washington, D.C.
And, fond welcome to all groups coming from out-of-town, especially to Evelyn Majervik and the Ohio members -40 of them - expected by charter bus!
ALL MEMBERS AND FRIENDS WELCOME!
Music for entertainment by the Wolf Brothers.
Food and cash bar.
V_______________________________________
Sympathy to all the relatives of Tony Kaluza who passed away in Slovenia, to Geri Thayer who lost her brother-in-law, Robert to Bruce Korosa for the loss of his father, Eddie, to Anna Marie McIntosh whose sister, Margaret Kola died, to Barbara Kociuba for her brother Stanley. Also, pray for our long-time member, Anna Fandak.
It seems our Button Boxers are starting a new trend, that is to play for our beloved dead, who adored polka music and want it to be played at their graves. The Wolf brothers and George Burich gladly accommodate them with their “heavenly” tunes. Thanks, guys. I have already made my reservations for my own grave site.
Did you get your new member for the 70th anniversary campaign? Everyone, please get your member so we will meet our goal.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Dec. 20th annual Br. 20 Christmas Party. It will be at the Serbian Hall. Dinner at noon. Reserve your ticket by calling Jonita, 726-6990 or Agnes at 722-2580.
Here’s a little prayer given to me by one of our members:
Dear God, so far today, God, I’ve done all right. I haven’t gossiped. /
haven’t even lost my temper. I haven’t been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish or overindulgent. I am very thankful for that. But in a few minutes, God, I’m going to get out of bed and from then on, I'm probably going to need a lot more help. AMEN.
Bye for now and please let me know of any shut-ins so we can send them a card.
KATHY STONICH
NO. 22, BRADLEY, IL Meeting: 3rd Tuesday every other month sr-sf-ŽT Members’ Homes
It was an eventful summer, after all!
On June 16, Br. 22 enjoyed a nice lunch at LaVilletta Restaurant, followed by meeting and social time. Our thanks to Mollie McIntyre and Elizabeth for furnishing prizes and making the afternoon a very pleasant experience.
As a group, we ate again! This time at breakfast at Family Restaurant after the 8:30 Mass July 22 for our deceased members. And coming up is the Slovenian get-together at Leo’s Acres on Sunday, Sept. 13.
Congratulations to Leo Rittmanic. He was honored at the 11:30 Mass on a Sunday in June (the exact date escapes me) for his 75th year of membership in the Knights of Columbus, 56-years as a Fourth Degree member. We salute you, Sir Knight. Enjoy your awards!
Congratulations, too, to newlyweds: Amanda Arnold and Jeff Meeker, who, in late May, pledged their vows on St. Lucius Island, West Indies. Amanda is the granddaughter of Marge Planton.
Pamela Richards and Brad Maas were married on June 6 in Bemidji, MN. For this family event, Grandparents Francis and Ann Richards and cousins leased a van for the long trip from Bradley. Our wishes for both new families are “love, laughter and happy ever after” (borrowed from the Chi Trib).
The Richards also had the exciting news that grandson Airman Mark Clutter returned to Hawaii from duty in Korea the first week in June. Welcome back, Mark!
Ruth Drassler, member Mayme’s sister-in-law, was the honoree at an Open House July 12 to launch her retirement from 33 years of service at the
Bradley Public Library, 16 years as head librarian. It was a wonderful event. May you relax, play bridge and travel as you planned, Ruth. Happy years ahead!
September 12 is not only the parish festival day but homecoming also for graduates of St. Joseph School, which marks its 75th anniversary this school year. Most members of Br. 22 were in line that very first day the three Dominican Sisters from Springfield welcomed us in 1924!
Visitors from Slovenia: The Jamnik and Ponikvar families were hosts to Majda Jamnik and her nephew. Majda had been here eight years ago. In a very, very short visit, the Lustigs were introduced to cousins, Ivanna and her brother from Ljubljana when Cousin Emma Znidarsich and son Jerry drove from LaCrosse, WI to see sorVbrother Frank in Kankakee. Many questions were left unanswered in this whirlwind visit but the moments were sweet nonetheless.
Happy Halloween, and when the Saints come marching in (Nov. 1), be ready to step in line!
EMMA LUSTIG
There were 19 members present for our annual Picnic Potluck Supper which Barbara Pohar and Helen Swietek hosted at Barbara’s lovely back yard. It was a nice, sunny late afternoon when we gathered, and although rain was in the forecast there was no indication of bad weather at 6:00 p.m. when we started to eat. We planned to eat first and have our meeting right after the meal. As we were having our dessert we noticed the dark storm clouds gathering and in a short while we had to scramble and gather our dishes, etc., and run to our cars and the rains poured as we left. It rained so hard I couldn’t see to drive so I parked and sat in the car until it eased up enough that I could drive and take Theresa Kinczewski home. Our area had branches down all over and some flooding. Barb said that we could have our meeting indoors if need be, but with
Cleveland Branches invite you! OHIO-MICHIGAN STATE DAY...
SUNDAY, SEPT. 20,1998
Mass at 10:30 a.m., St. Vitus Church followed by dinner at Sterle’s.
Olga Dorchak, State President Fran Gazvoda, Pres. Br. 25 Co-Chairmen
For dinner tickets ($ 17.50 per person), call Olga: (440) 248-0595 or Fran: (216) 431-2043
the deluge everyone was anxious to get home. Father John Onderko, our Spiritual Leader in his prayer before dinner thanked God for the lovely evening and we did enjoy the supper, but we missed our meeting. Thanks to Barb and Helen for letting us share your backyard.
We were overjoyed to see Wanita Helmer at Mass on Sunday, July 5th. She was surrounded by her friends after mass and many tears of happiness were shed by all of us. Our prayers were answered. It was a long almost 14 months away from La Salle for Wanita with a lot of pain with the surgeries and all of the physical therapy but I have to report that she looks great and still has that wonderful sense of humor.
Our Financial Secretary and Treasurer, Betty Stack, is still going to IVC Hospital for treatment several times a week as an outpatient. Betty always is such a willing helper and goes out of her way to do all that she can to make our projects successful. We pray that she will be better soon and she can participate in all of our activities.
Congratulations to Barb and John Pohar on the birth of a little grandson to son John III and wife Jill on July 28th.
Kevin Sweetland, great-grandson of our Vice President, Minnie Carter passed away on June 25th after a long battle with Hodgkin’s Disease. Most of the past year and a half was spent at St. Jude’s Hospital. He fought so valiantly and we were so sure he was winning his battle so many times, only to learn he had another set back. There were so many of us praying for his recovery and we all feel the loss. Our
NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL Meeting: 3rd Thurs. Catholic School Library Mar.-Apr.-May-June Sept.-Oct.-Nov.
50 YEARS SEEMS JUST LIKE A DAY!
Family and friends celebrated with Clarence and Jo (Josephine) Grabowski as they happily observed 50 years of wedded life on July 3, 1998 in La Salle, Illinois.
Josephine, nee Pohar, is a very enthusiastic member of Br. 24, probably learning much about the SWU from her late aunt, Christine Witek and her mother. Both were exceptional members.
The couple began their married life in La Salle where they still reside. Their home was the scene of the 50th anniversary reception after mass and blessing officiated by Rev. John Onderko. Present at a formal dinner held in their honor at the Paramount Hall were many friends and their family, son Dr. Michael Grabowski, his wife, Cathy (Ficek), whose late grandmother, Nellie Mochnik was an officer of Br. 24 for many years, and two grandchildren, Joelle and Mike.
Our reporter of Br. 24, Anne Marie Wangler sent us this wonderful story and adds more information as follows:
“Jo and Clarence are still working in the family business, Pohar Excavating and Trucking founded by her father, John Pohar in 1929. Her mother, Josephine Brekan Pohar was a member of Branch 24 for many years but passed away some years ago. She has two brothers, John is President and Frank is Vice President and Jo is Secretary-Treasurer. The company is now called John Pohar and Sons, Inc. Clarence works in the office. (Clarence is totally blind, manages very well, and has a great sense of humor).
Jo was proud to be the Branch 24 delegate to the National Convention in San Francisco. Her youngest sister,
prayers and condolences to Minnie, her daughter, Nancy and Chuck Bierhom, the grandparents, and Kevin’s mom and dad, Jeff and Sheila Sweetland. His funeral mass was held on June 29th in St. Anthony’s Church in Spring Valley.
Barb Krogulski’s father, Wally Kopczyk, died on July 12th in the Spring Valley Nursing Home where he had lived the past three years. He was preceded in death by his wife Jennie in 1988. We offer our condolences to his daughters, Barb and Ken Krogulski and Judy and Arthur Silver, his 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother and three sisters. His funeral mass was in Resurrection Church on July 15th. We pray that God will grant their souls and the souls of all our deceased Eternal Peace and Happiness.
Mary Ann Brunner was the alternate and they had a lovely time meeting so many wonderful people. She returned with a wonderful report for the branch and showed us a great deal of printed material which she shared with the members.
She brought in 16 new members, 3 sisters, 1 sister-in-law, 5 nieces, 2 friends, and 5 grand nieces. She is in the process of enrolling the youngest grandniece, Emily Collins, very soon. She is a very enthusiastic member.
Jo is an Oblate of St. Benedict in Navoou, IL and attends many workshops and meetings there.
We’re looking forward to our Branch’s 70th Birthday but first we have to remember that some of our members will have their birthdays soon. A Happy birthday to our September birthday celebrants: Justine Anglavar, Wanita Helmer and Minnie Carter. In October our birthday celebrants will be, Josephine Grabowski, Josephine Savnik, Jr. member, Kaycie Plowman, Frances Puetz, Theresa Gende, Shirley Miller and Anne Serri. May each of you have a very special day and God willing a Happy, Healthy year.
We’re looking forward to our Branch’s 70th Anniversary Dinner on September 17th and the State Convention in Joliet on October 4th at which time Br. 20 will celebrate their 70th Anniversary. Letters have been sent out to all of our members regarding these
Jo and Clarence on their 50th!
They are standing in their back yard. The stone open book has the verse carved on it (13:4-7 I Corinthian), “With God, All Things Are Possible.”
Mr. & Mrs. Clarence O. Grabowski Wedding Photo from 1948
events. We encourage you to reserve your places at dinner and then your seat on the bus to the October Convention.
Our next meeting will be on Thursday, October 15, at 7:00 p.m. in La Salle Catholic School. Convention reports will be given at that time.
I’d like to thank our Editor, Corinne Leskovar, for the lovely page she gave our 50th wedding anniversary. She told me she had been thinking of doing a column honoring 50th wedding anniversaries and she asked if I would
Thanks to our diligent reporter, Ann Marie and congratulations to Jo. and Clarence for sharing this story with us. We are getting to know more and more about the interesting people we have in our SWU!
send photos, etc. which I did. I knew she would do a great job, but my husband and I never dreamed how great it would be. Our entire family was pleased and we had many complements on the article. She said to send information on 50th weddings, so I have enclosed a bit of news regarding Clarence and Josephine Grabowski’s 50th. I think Jo deserves some recognition— she signed up 16 family members and friends and is going to add a 17th with the addition of Emily Collins, a grand niece.
ANNE MARIE WANGLER, Reporter
NO. 25, CLEVELAND, OH 2nd Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Vitus Social Room
Since we haven’t had any meetings during June, July and August... Here’s hoping your summer so far has been enjoyable.
The St. Vitus Annual Picnic held at Pristava was well attended. It was nice to renew old acquaintances.
Happy belated birthday to Jan Krivacic, our recording secretary and to Frances Macerol who is housebound and would appreciate a card or a call. And to all who are ill and in the hospital, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Hope you will attend Bishop Frederick Baraga Days at St. Vitus Church, Sept. 4-5. Mass on Saturday is at 6 p.m. and social to follow.
Enjoy the Labor Day weekend... That holiday winds up the summer.
Get well wishes to Helen March who is confined to the hospital... A card would be nice.
Till we get back to our regular routine, stay well.
Na svidenje!
EMILEE JENKO,
Reporter
NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed. SSH Recher Ave.
Welcome back ladies!! I hope everyone had a fun and safe summer. Well, Fall is almost here and it is my favorite season of all. We get to enjoy the bright and beautiful colors that will be upon us soon.
I was not present at the June 17th meeting but happy to report that everything went well. Frances Ogorevc filled in for me and had good things to say. The picnic went well and the food was delicious. Thank you, Frances, for sayng “yes” and filling in for me. And I would also like to say thank you to all the ladies who brought in food and helped Frances with the hostess duties.
On our "sick list we have Esther Gar-bincus in University Hospital. VP Alma Eppich was in the hospital this past July 8th for hip operation. Alma is now home recuperating nicely. Jean McNulty is home from the hospital recuperating from an illness. Jean is getting her strength back.
Molly Gregorc a long time member of over 60 years passed away on July 20th. Branch 32 supported the family by attending at the funeral home. May Molly be at peace now with angels to watch over her. Our prayers are with her family.
Dorothy and Bob Lamm’s granddaughter, Stephanie Kneisley was head of the life guards at Springfield Country Club. Their other granddaughter Ashley Hegeduš did an outstanding job in pitching with the Dublin Youth Baseball League. Terrific job girls!! Dorothy’s cousins, Zora and Matt Krašovec’s	granddaughter, Cristi
Johnson is going to marry David Russell on September 5th in Fullerton, CA. Zora and Matt are going to make the trip to help celebrate this special occasion . Best wishes to Cristi and David.
Happy birthday to all our members who had a birthday in June, July, and August. And I cannot forget all the members who have birthdays in September and October, so HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!
We would like to say Happy Anniversary to Josephine and A1 Comen-shek, they celebrated their 57th Wedding Anniversary on August 30th. Congratulations!
Our next meeting is scheduled on September 16th, at 7:00 p.m. And the following meeting will be on October 21st, which will begin with mass at St. Christine’s Church at 7:00 p.m. with our regular meeting to follow afterwards.
Until next time take care.
ADRIENNE JAGER
NO. 33, DULUTH, MN Meeting: 1st Wed.
St. Elizabeth’s Church
Summer sure has flown by! Soon the leaves will turn color and fall to the ground. Just think, the holidays will be just around the comer!!
This article will be short this time, since we did not meet in July. I haven’t received much news. Cyrilla Colard had surgery - we hope she is well on the road to recovery.
Our sympathy goes to our member, Bessie Kenyon. Her husband, Lyle passed to his eternal reward.
Very happy 80th birthday wishes to Madelyne Abbott. She has been our member for many years and was our Mother of the Year in 1995.
She is one of the most “up” people 1 know.
We’d like to share her beautiful face with all of you - so am sending her 80th birthday greeting picture. It was in our papers with a special wish from her family.
Best wishes to all regions for successful state conventions this fall!
LISA MCDONNELL
NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN Meeting: 3rd Wed., 1 p.m.
St. Martin’s Church Hall Jan. to May; Sept., Oct. & Nov.
Br. 34, Soudan, met for our Mother ol the Year Celebration on Wednesday, May 13, 1998, which started with a meaningful Mass celebrated by our pastor, Fr. Pakiz. We concluded by singing Češčena si, Marija. We then traveled to the Wayside Cafe on Highway 77 to have the breakfast of our choice, which each of us enjoyed. The ladies had a good time visiting with one another. Angie Grahek, who had just returned from Arizona, provided the door prize, which was won by Tory Bobence. We have now adjourned until September 16, with Theresa Berg and Adrienne Miklich as hostesses; the door
prize will be brought by Agnes Mattson. Don’t forget our meetings are held on every third Wednesday, at 1 p.m. in the parish hall.
All of us would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Tory Bobence, whose husband, John M. Bobence, passed away on April 28 in Ely. We have many good memories of John who was so well liked by so many people.
At our gathering, I was able to distribute information about our MN Day, to be held in Chisholm on Sunday, September 13 and I hope that we will have a good attendance by our branch.
Hope you enjoyed your summer, and we’ll see you in Chisholm!
ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter
NO. 35, AURORA, MN Meeting: 6 per year Community Sr. Center
At our August 5th Luncheon meeting, plans were made to attend the Minnesota State Convention on Sunday, September 13th in Chisholm. This is a special day for all our members. We hope to see all of you there.
Late news about some of our young members. Congratulations to: Katie Martinetto and her softball team who won 2nd place at State this Spring; Alyssa Hodnik who received a perfect score of 100 points in her biographical research report about Joan of Arc. (It was very interesting Alyssa!). All our graduates who won honors and scholarships. We wish you the best in whatever you choose to do in the future.
Travelers this summer were the Alan Hodnik family who went to Japan, Anna Hodnik who went to Alaska and Frank and Anita Vovk who went to Slovenia. We hope you will share the highlights of your travels at our future meetings.
The 4th of July brought many people “home” including several of our members. Josephine (Putzel) Potter (Re-msen, N.Y.) celebrated her 50th class reunion. “Dottie” Jamnick (Montrose, MI) sponsored the 4th of July Children’s Pie Eating Contest again this year. Anna Mae (Drobnick) Lyle and family were here from Houston, TX to visit her sister Dorothy Jamnick and daughter “Dottie”. It was good to see and visit with everyone.
We travel along our Interstates seldom taking time to see places of interest
Our Hero!
It is hard to believe that Nicholas is 13 and will be entering the seventh grade. He has been having a busy summer, just completing five weeks of summer school. “Now,” he says, “summer really begins.” Within that five weeks, Nicholas made a quick trip to Children’s Medical Center to have corrective eye surgery and four teeth extracted in preparation for those tinsel teeth - braces. He met up with a nurse that he had for his first heart surgery. She remembered him as a very sick infant and was pleased to see him as an active young man.
Nick, along with his dad, Paul, are teaming up to help United Way in raising funds for various organizations. Paul is a driver for UPS - a company that contributes to United Way. Nick has been involved in Camp Courage (week long camp), Day Camp Courage, Cub Scouts and other local organizations which receive funding through United Way. Together, they will be part of the United Way brochure, video, and visits to promote it.
along the way. My daughter, Suzanne and I stopped to see an interesting place called the Cross in the Woods on our way to her home in Michigan from Minnesota. It is located 1-1/2 miles off Interstate 75 at Indian River, MI. It was beautiful. The cross is made from a 55’ redwood tree with a bronze 7 ton image of Jesus. It is the largest crucifix in the world. An altar sets at the base of the cross with wooden benches to celebrate mass outside. A new church with a wall of glass built in 1997 was built so the people celebrating mass in inclement weather could see the Cross in the Woods. A Doll museum containing 525 dolls representing the various orders of nuns, priests and brothers was displayed and cared for by a dedicated couple from Saginaw, Michigan. So much to see and enjoy - happy we took the time to stop.
I’m happy to report Nicholas Martinetto is doing well after his eye surgery. I’ve enjoyed seeing all your works of art at Grandma Turk’s, Nick.
All Slav Day at Ironworld was special this year with the Polka mass at noon and the introduction of the Grape Festival. The ethnic foods, including the barbequed pig and lamb, all the
Pictured is Nick proudly standing by this autographed photo of Alan Jackson, his favorite singer, while wearing his Alan Jackson t-shirt. Grandma Phyllis Turk was instrumental in obtaining the photo for Nick, since she knows what a huge fan he is.
The Martinetto family is heading to Colorado for a family reunion. We will do a little sightseeing along the way and get to visit many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Nancy Martinetto
variety of music, dancers and peopl dressed in ethnic costumes added to the festivities.
Our sympathy and prayers are with Helen Simonich and the Grebenc families who lost their sister Molly in June. And to the Baudek Family whose mother, Rose passed away in July. May they rest in peace. (Thank you Florence Holland for leading the prayers at Roses’ wake).
Enjoy the Fall and all it’s colors. It is a beautiful time of the year!
ANNE M. ORAZEM
NO. 40, LORAIN, OH Meeting: 2nd Wed.
SS Cyril & Method Hall
Seventeen came to our meeting on June 10th. Anna Rossman and her daughter, Mary Ann Foster were our hostesses. They treated us to Apple Pie; it was delicious. Thanks!
Our Martina Wolfe won the door prize.
Our meeting was brought to order by our Pres, with prayer. She read us a letter from Evelyn Majercik reminding us about the 70th year celebration
of Lodge 20 in Joliet on Oct. 4th and the Ohio-Mich Convention on Sept. 17th in Cleveland.
It is important, if you wish to attend, to make reservations as soon as possible by calling our President at 245-3919 for details.
June was a busy month with graduations. Our Stephanie Polutnik went to Minneapolis for her grandson’s graduation from High School. Another grandson is is graduating from Northwestern and 2 granddaughters are graduating from Ohio University.
My grandson Nickolas graduated from Admiral King High School. Our Molly Glavan went to Newport, Michigan for the graduation celebration of Frank Jere who received his Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering at Toledo, Ohio. At the same time Frank’s siblings, twins, Katie and Dan were honored. They graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic Center High School in Monroe, Mich. They are the children of Tom and Janis Jere of Newport, Mich. Our Molly and Emma Kurjan are great aunts to the graduates.
Lest we forget, Amy Lynn Christie came to celebrate with her cousins. She attends Smith College in Northampton, Mass and is a sophomore. She is also a great niece of our Molly and Emma.
We wish to congratulate all the graduates.
Here’s more news: We had a beautiful wedding in our family. My granddaughter, Sherri Ann was married to Adam Kopp on July 27th in St. Anthony’s Church. My grandson, Lt. Col. Douglas Paul Yurovich was honored recently at a change of command ceremony held at the U.S. Marine Corps station in Beaufort, S.C. For 3 years he served as an air combat tactics instructor and graduated from the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School. He received many personal decorations. He has logged more than 3,300 hours flying 30 different types of aircraft. At the ceremony he was made commander of the F—18 Hornets.
At our June meeting we had our raffle and Francine was lucky enough to win the gift that Mrs. Rossman donated. Her son-in-law made the wooden bird house and talented Mrs. Rossman painted and decorated it. These bird houses are made with loving care by the Rossmans. They have beautiful flowers and are colorful. There is even a little bird in each of them. Fran-
cine was really pleased and said she loves it.
We wish to thank all our members who donated prizes for all our raffles.
Remembering July 8th
Our hostesses for our July 8th meeting were Martina Woelfe and Irene Kokinda. They treated us to a delicious banana cake. Thanks, girls. Our door prize winner was Agnes Drstvensek. It was a hot day and 16 came to our meeting. Agatha was absent. We dispensed with our meeting quickly. We sang Happy Birthday to our birthday girls and we were reminded to make our reservations as soon as possible if we were planning on going to Joliet on Oct. 4th and to our Ohio-Mich. Convention on Sept. 17.
Hope the weather cools off some and more of you will come to our future meetings.
Enjoy your vacations.
Love,
MARY MATOS
NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH Meetings: Quarterly, 2nd month of the quarter, 2nd Saturday Maple Hts., Library
As you read this we will be into our fall season. Where did the summer go? As winter blends into spring we eagerly anticipate the lazy-hazy days of summer which seems to be shorter with each passing year. Fortunately, our geographic location regularly rewards us with a glorious autumn to help ease the pain of what is to follow!!
Many of you probably read the July 16th article in the Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper about Higbee’s Silver Grille Restaurant which closed in 1989 having been a generational marker for Cleveland families from the days when shopping meant a trolly or bus trip to visit the grand old department stores on our Public Square (Cleveland’s center of town). How many of you know that our own Annie Zupančič contributed 40 of her working years as a Silver Grille employee? Having started her career as a waitress with Fred Harvey’s in the Terminal Tower, Annie moved over to the Silver Grille in the same capacity. With classic Slovenian perseverence she eventually progressed to become kitchen supervisor and ultimately earned the position
of Manager which she held from 1969 to 1986 when she retired. What a great American success story! Annie and I were classmates at Maple Hts., High School - to know her is to love her, and so, who better to serve as our Sunshine Chairman?
Happy Sept. birthdays to: Ann Marie Buehner, Theresa Filips, Mary Tome, Dorothy Budimlic, Betty Ann Harr, Millie Lipnos, Mary Polantz, Pat Wolf and Mary Prhne.
Happy October birthdays to: Jean Offutt, Amy Thompson, Tracy Buehner, my sister, Fran Tomsic and my daughter, Lynn Kossakoski.
Dolores Lipnos’ grandson, Brian Klingbeil graduated from No. Royalton High School and will attend the Univ. of Toledo.
Dorothy Mehosky will have completed her Nova Scotia - New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island sojourn by the time you read this.
Mel Blazy is gradually recovering from recent back surgery. For any of you who are ailing, get well wishes are sent your way! I can only report on the news that reaches me.
Have a pleasant “Jesen” (autumn)!
Till November, na svidenje!
LIL SADOWSKI
NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Meeting: 4th Wed.
St. John Evangelist Rectory
This summer was quite eventful for me. My vision was getting bad, so I finally got up the courage to see a doctor and get the cataracts removed. It is really a very simple surgery. My vision is now greatly improved and I am now glad that I had it done.
Antonia Vekar, the mother of Josephine Janezic, requested that, when she is called to her heavenly home, her body be interned next to her husband, Matija, in St. Peter’s Church Cemetery in Ilirska Bistrica. In June Josephine, her husband Slavko, and her granddaughter Michelle Goldmann went to Slovenia. Michelle carried the Urn to St. Peter’s Church and it was viwed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mass, with many friends and family attending. Michelle also carried the Urn in the procession from the Church to the place of interment.
I believe Michelle enjoyed the trip
Br. SO, Euclid-Cleveland celebrates Valentine’s Day with a special honor going to one of their outstanding members. This year Frances Kikel was chosen. She is a 55-year member! On the photo she is seen, center, seated, with friends, Mary Kovelan, left and Ann Arhar, right, and standing Angie Shine, Ann Tercek and Mary Delost.
For their Christmas dinner on Dec. 8th last year, the members gathered at Kristy’s restaurant on E. 220th St. Ninety members enjoyed themselves singing along to the accordian of Lou Trebar. Oh, those good, ol’ time songs! Leading the singing were Rose Mary Marn and Ann Tercek, seen here with Lou.
to Slovenia the most. She attended one of the classes at a school for two weeks. The students and teacher were improving their English. She was hoping that she could stay longer, but it was time to go home.
Mary Memik went to Slovenia to live with her sister and niece. We will miss you Mary, but I am sure that being back in your homeland will be very happy for you.
September 23rd, the first day of autumn, is our meeting day. Same place, same time. June Smurella and I were to be baking ladies in June, but that meeting was cancelled. So, June and 1 will be the baking ladies for September.
Don’t forget September 27th, the State Convention for S.W.U. #12. Josephine has tickets. You can reach her at 545-0691.
The officers and I are hoping that you all are having a very enjoyable summer.
ANNE E. KONCZAL, Reporter
NO. 50, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed. Euclid Public Library except July & Aug.
Dober Dan! It’s gone, summer. We hope you survived it in good faith. We were luckier temperature-wise than many of the locales in our country. Now we can return to more normal endeavors. Some of us did meet during this period. Most of us who happen to
have the name of “ANN” met on July 23rd to celebrate St. Ann’s Day. A fine luncheon was served at the Four Seasons Restaurant for over forty “Anns” who had a whooping good time together. Thank God for all our lovely Anns.
And then, some of us met at funeral homes. Our member Vida Gawenda passed away July 26th. She will be greatly missed by her son, Paul and sister, Mary Suna, also our member. Antoinette Gaeta, our charter member, lost her husband. Her sister, Rose Lo Presti shares this grief. On August 2nd, Josephine Mole passed away at the age of 90. Jo was the beloved wife of Joseph. They have a son, Thomas and had a daughter, Loretta who will be waiting to greet her mother.
Betty Zaller found herself in a hospital after she fell and broke her ankle. We wish her well along with Ann Hočevar and Ann Doles who also have been ill. Dear ladies, please get well as soon as possible.
By the time this ZARJA issue will be in your hands we will be preparing to attend our September 16th Picnic Meeting. It will undoubtedly be its usual yearly success. We have had good response and are happy so many will be able to attend. Those of you who have had second thoughts about being there can still send a check in the name of SWU #50 for $5.00 to Evelyn Pipoly, 23330 Williams Ave., Euclid, OH 44123 BEFORE the 9th of September to cover the cost of the catered chicken dinner.
Corinne Leskovar from our editorial office visited our area recently to work on our new cook book with Evelyn Majercik, Kathy Dorchak, Cirila Kermavner and Olga Dorchak. We will be anxiously awaiting the new yum yums to be entered in this cook book which should be hopefully available for this Christmas giving. Good luck gals. (More on this later.)
Now that our summer sojourn is over we can return to serious business and more delightful get togethers. Let’s all try to attend the meetings at the Euclid Public Library more often and enjoy each other as we should.
With that, I will leave you with a thought for the day I read recently.
Although the years bring aches and pains, that render our muscles inert, one consolation that remains — thank goodness, wrinkles don’t hurt.
Nasvidenje!
VI	MORAVCHEK
NO. 54, WARREN, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed. Feb. thru May, Sep., Nov., Dec.
We enjoyed our annual Mother-Daughter Luncheon in June at my home and we had a good turnout. A special guest from Arizona, Vic Zuga’s niece, Marie Drašler, came, too - it was a nice visit from someone who left our area about fifty years ago! We had a lovely afternoon with everyone bringing a covered dish, very tasty, too. We reminisced about old times, and read-
A Crafty Idea
Summer is over, and it’s time to think about projects for fall and Christmas. It has been a summer not really suitable for crafting, and I did find myself looking for something to “create” at times.
Remember when “Doris’ Florida Afghan” was offered? Such a simple but pretty pattern. I had a lot of baby yam that I hated to see go to waste. I used Doris’ afghan pattern, and made a slight change. Every third pattern now, I used a varigated yam. The finished product is really pretty. If you have the pattern, try this new idea. Just remember, every third pattern row (only one row) use a varigated yam to match the main color of your afghan.
If you don’t have the pattern, but would like to try it, I will be happy to send it to you. Send $1.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Evelyn A. Majercik
P.O. Box 46539 Bedford, OH 44146
ing some Mother’s Day poems, which made us all teary-eyed. It was so good to have our president, Anne Brdek with us. She has had such a sad and sorrowful year.
We welcomed two new social members, Louise Vett and Frances Sainato and hope they will enjoy our small group.
Haven’t talked to anyone about vacations except Vic Zuga, our charter member, who is traveling to Slovenia for the first time. She is going with her daughter, son and daughter-in-law. All three of them have been there several times but never with mom. Harry and I have just returned from Finger Lakes, NY with our close friends and had a wonderful trip seeing the lakes, vineyards, wineries and farmlands that remind me of places in Slovenia.
Get well to Mary Zugar who had major surgery and is recuperating in a nursing home. And, to Angela Kaferle who has moved to a nursing home from assisted living.
Please come to our Sept. 16th meeting - it’s a Wednesday - at noon at the Elks Clubroom, Rt. 422. We have a lunch and then, business meeting. God bless and keep you.
JOANNE PONIKVAR
NO. 55, GIRARD, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed., 7-8 p.m.
“Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hast formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” Psalm 9: 1-2 Hope you have had a good summer. Fall is here, school begins, the leaves change colors and I wonder how time went so fast.
My granddaughters, Sheree and Christine Twaddle, are visiting from Boise, Idaho. We will be shopping, going to amusement parks, etc. They sure wear me out fast.
Our next meeting is 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 16, 1998 at Marie Selak’s home, 1058 Susan Lane, Girard, Ohio.
September birthday: Nettie Juvančič October birthdays: Mark Selak and Monica Selak
JOAN KRISTIN TWADDLE
NO. 57, NILES, OH Meeting: 2nd Tues. Shepherd of the Valley Center
I am writing this in the month of June - just after we held our meeting at the Shepherd Home. Meeting was presided by our president with nine members present.
In July we held our annual picnic. We’ll report on it later.
Some of our members enjoyed their vacations to far away places. Jane Logar went to Las Vegas with a dear friend and had a really fun time, but no luck. Jennie Novak went on a trip to Middletown, VA to visit her niece, Barb and family and while there they visited the Rubber Maid factory. Elizabeth Havaich and husband went to Columbus to visit their son and family and watched their granddaughter compete in the State Track Meet. Charlotte Lah and family flew to Cancun, Mexico for a week and Helen Misel and her son flew to Boise, Idaho to visit daughter and grandchildren. Some of us stayed home.
Mrs. Opalka, our oldest member, was hospitalized but is now on the road to recovery.
June birthdays were celebrated by Charlotte Lah, Esther Logar and Amelia Simmons. Hostesses for June was Jane Logar.
Stay well and God bless you!
FRANCES STANEC
NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH Meeting: Mar.-Apr.-May-June Aug.-Oct.-Nov.-Dec.
Sec’y. Epley’s Home 20294 Emery Rd., No Randall
The long, hot summer has just about ended. It’s getting kids into bed at a reasonable hour, so you can get them up at an early hour. It’s labeling clothes and packing older children off to college, and spending hours looking for school supplies for the little ones. It’s the challenge of picking out what you want them to wear, as opposed to what they want to wear. Brown bags, backpacks, lunch boxes, everything pointing to another school year that is either about to start, or has already started. We wish all our students a good year, and to all the mothers, it’s time to rest (while the kids are gone).
Hannah Dusek arrived on July 18th, making her parents (Paul and Renee) ever so happy. She weighed in at 8 lbs., 2 ozs. and becomes the fourth grandchild of our Recording Secretary, Gloria and her husband, Tim. Congratulations to the family. In speaking with Gloria, it is quite evident that Hannah has already won over a few hearts.
Accidents do happen, and Stephanie Majercik did not avoid hers. She took a tumble from a swing and fractured her left arm at the elbow. Things were tricky for a while, but at the present everything looks good. She will be in a cast until mid-September. Lucky she is right-handed - school should be no
We love to read news of your branch in ZARJA!
problem. Hang in there, Stephie, it won’t be long now. Stephie did miss playing baseball.
Our vacation to Florida was shortened by the smoke and heat. The area where we have our mobile home was in the path of the smoke from all the fires that were north of us. It was like waking up in a cloud every morning. We knew it would be hot (summers always are, down there), we did not know they would break records with the heat. We knew the fires were there, but never knew smoke could travel so far beyond the trouble points. The beach was out of the question, no sun, only smoke. When the NASCAR race was cancelled for July 4th, the city became almost a ghost town. All activities were cancelled, parades, fireworks, most outdoor events. We left and headed west to Orlando where we spent a couple of delightful, warm, smoke-free days before we headed north.
Our next branch meeting is scheduled for September 14th at Epley’s Residence. Please plan on joining us, we’d love to hear what you have done
this summer. Can’t write a newsy column if there is no input.
The bus to Joliet has room for two more passengers. If you are interested, please call (440-439-1825) and we will save a seat for you.
Have yourselves a beautiful autumn/ fall season. See you when the snow falls (what an awful thought).
Respectfully,
EVELYN A. MAJERCIK
NO. 89, OGLESBY, IL Meetings: 2nd Mon. except Jan. and July Dickinson House
Summer seemed to fly by so fast, but it always does when you’re having fun! We are looking forward to hearing about Angie Nico’s tour of Israel, Jordan and Egypt. I was fortunate to say “bye” to her and wish her well as she left for a week’s stay in California with her son, Bill and his family. It was nice to hear that her granddaughter, Lisa Wait will be going to the Univ. of Illinois in Champaign. It will be her
sophomore year there. She has received many honors in math and psychology. Keep up the good work, Lisa.
Mary Stubler’s granddaughter, Julie Stubler will be going to IVCC, Oglesby.
We were sorry to hear that Mary underwent surgery on her hand. No more pain, I hope, and I’ll bet she’s glad of that!
Betty Hamilton’s grandson, David Munson is headed for IVCC, too. Let’s hope that his studies don’t tie him down too much so he can play basketball. He is really great on the court!
Rose Ann Prey and Jo Morrison are proud of their granddaughter, Vanessa Morrison who received a Scholarship award from Thrall Enterprises, Inc. She will attend Beloit College in Wisconsin this Sept. and major in biology. We all wish you the best, Vanessa. You really worked hard to get where you are!
Our congratulations to Br. 24 in LaSalle on their 70th Anniversary. May they have many more productive years. William and Anne Wangler celebrated 50 years of wedded bliss on May 17th. Congratulations and many more happy years together is our wish. Betty Stack, Br. 24 Financial Sec’y was hospitalized recently. Hope it’s a full recovery, Betty!
Emma Folty’s son, who resides in Tonica, was instrumental in helping to make a model of the Hopkins Township High School which was demolished last month. The original school was completed in 1918 and drew acclaim for having a museum on the top floor. Among some of the exhibits are a bicycle with one big wheel, Civil War memorabilia, American Indian artifacts, World War II artifacts, stuffed birds, an eagle and even a two-headed calf that was bom in Putnam County! The model of the school is taking six months to complete. It will be on display in the Hopkins Hi Alumni Museum when completed.
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Our new pastor, Fr. Brian Rejsek is a wonderful addition to Holy Family Church. We are so lucky to have him as our pastor. Let’s hope that we can make him proud. Welcome, Father Rejsek.
This summer we have Jaroslav Pruka, a visitor from Thove Sviny, a small town in South Bohemia. He is a seminarian and goes to the Archbishop’s Seminary in Prague. He is here this summer to learn about the Catholic Church in America. He is a great help to Fr. Rejsek and now is able to practice his English on a regular basis. It’s amazing how fluent he is already. We will miss him when he goes back to Czech Republic. We enjoyed having him in Oglesby.
EUNICE KOMATER
NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL Meeting: 2nd Wed. Apr.-May-June Sep.-Oct.-Nov.-Dec. 12:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Church Hall
As I left the final meeting before the summer break, when we honored all our Mothers, I was very much aware of the strong feelings we members have of belonging to a great organization. There was a sense of warmth in the air and a lot of happy talk among us. It was a joy to see and be a part of this scene, all the ladies coming together and caring for one another.
It was nice to see Millie Cuzella; she has suffered from a fall and broke her arm getting out of her lounge chair at home. She was hospitalized for ten days but she managed to hobble around on crutches to be with us in May. She also traveled to Lakewood, Colorado with her daughter, Cathy Hansen to see her granddaughter, Janette Cuzella make her first Holy Communion. Another granddaughter, Christina Marie received a BA degree in marketing at Lewis Univ., also in May.
Our guests at the May party included Sr. Maria Goretti and Sr. Regina Marie of Sacred Heart parish. I devoutly wish the best to Sr. Regina and thanks for her many years of faithful and holy service to the parish and school. She was transferred to St. Mary’s Nativity School in Joliet. May you enjoy health, happiness and outstanding success in all your ventures, Sr. Regina.
For the party in May the table decorations were prepared lovingly by Eve-
WE MOURN A LOYAL AND LONG-STANDING MEMBER
The SWU has lost a very long-standing officer and member, Victoria Volk, who served as the only president of Br. 99, Elmhurst, Illinois. She served 58 years and was buried with her 50 year pin. Mrs. Volk passed away in July. Her daughter, Elly Barber is the only surviving member of her family.
Our sincere condolences.
lyn Driscoll. Cash donations were received from Mary Malcich ($5) and Mildred Poropat ($20). We acknowledge these donations with gratitude. It was a joy to see Millie at our party. I always enjoy her presence. Mary (Matt) Perkovich shared the spotlight on her birthday with a beautifully decorated cake by Mary A. Perkovich and Manda Dosen.
Split-the-Pot winners: Marie Maras, Mary A. Perkovich, Mary (Matt) Perkovich, Eleanore Bandera, Ann Ciku-lin, Mary Toporis (cake).
Please remember in your prayers: Millie Cuzella, Helen Nowicki, Kate Musa (she also attended our party), Marge Krmpotic, Helen Golich, Mary Malcich, Julie Hansen. Cake donations were made by Helen Santy, Marie Maras, Ann Cikulin, Marge Niksich. Many thanks to Helen Santy, Ann Yosue, Dolores Hennelly, Mary A. Perkovich, Manda Dosen, Mary Toporis, Eleanor Bandera, Harriet Isek, Helen Price, Bernice Morrison, Ann Cikulin. I appreciate your loving care in making our party interesting. This doesn’t just happen; it takes a lot of painstaking effort by all of you.
In conclusion, try to attend the Sept. 9th meeting. It’s at 1:30 p.m. which should be convenient. It will be our first fall session. Bless you and stay healthy!
MILLIE JAMES
NO. 102, WILLARD, WI Meeting: When convenient Parish Center
Summer usually brings hot, humid weather - but July has been a dry month here.
Mary and Vitko Staut are great grandparents again. A girl, named
Courtney, was bom to Bill and Jody (Friedman) Stagma on May 14th in Enid, Oklahoma. Congratulations to the family.
The 4 H Club of Willard held a Pie social on June 15th at the Athletic Club. There was nice assortment of pies; the social was well-attended.
The Plautz family reunion was held on July 4th at the home of Larry and Sue Pakiz. One hundred and five relatives attended from Florida, Washington, Virginia, Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio and from the cities of Calgary and Montreal, Canada. Represented were the Plautz, Popovich and Maurin families.
The annual Slovenska Družba picnic was held on July 26th. After a pot-luck meal featuring Slovenian foods the afternoon was spent visiting, singing and dancing. The music was provided by Frank Pakiz and sons.
Bobbie Jo Hribar and Robert Wells of Spring, Texas were married on Aug. 1st. Bobbie Jo is a granddaughter of Lud Hribar of Willard. Congratulations to them.
Sue Pakiz injured her vertebrae in a fall at her home. After being laid up for some time, she is now almost completely recovered.
Some local people made a trip to Medjugorje. Among them were Teresa Zorman, Dorothy Briski, Marie Amundson, Mary Staut and Msgr. Malnar. They were gone for ten days.
Mark De Pasquale, son of Ray and Judy Di Pasquale will be married to Suzanne Zani on Sept. 19th in Boston. Judy, from Ithaca, NY is a member of our branch.
Two couples were married in August: Harley Ambelang and Candace Trunkel; and Sarah Zagožen and Greg Shaw. Best wishes to them.
We were all saddened by the death of Anna Lesar. She was a life-long member of our branch, also of the CCW and the Slovenska Družba. Other recent deaths include Cecil and Christine (Verschay) Anderson, Stephanie Champa, Lillian (Kaltinger) Sohlberg, Alvina (Marinčič) Hilge, Frances Horn, Julia Try bula and Albert Musich. Our sympathy to their families.
And our prayers to those in nursing homes or ill at home, especially Sue Pakiz, Josephine Artac, John Francel and Philip Lamovec.
FRIEDA KLANCHER
liflšn 5L0UEM5KR DEDI5ČIMR
BARAGA
Začetki Katoliške Cerkve v Ameriki
FRANC JAKLIČ
X. BARAGA ŠKOF V MARQUETTE BOLEZEN IN SMRT
PREMESTITEV ŠKOFIJSKE STOLICE V MARQUETTE (V maju 1866)
Iz Čebuljevega pisma iz 1. 1866 vemo, da so že vse tri njegove cerkve imele tisto leto orgle: v Bayfildu, kjer je naučil orglati 14-letno pol Indijanko, v Superiorju, kjer je orglala 20-letna pol Indijanka, in v La Pointu.
V	avgustu 1866 je Baraga nastavil za župnika v Marquette Jackerja iz Hancocka. Jacker mu je bil poslej do smrti v veliko oporo in tolažbo. Bil mu je tudi spovednik.
31. avgusta 1866 je Baraga posvetil Janeza Vrtina za duhovnika. Imel je šele 22 let. To je bilo prvo in zadnje mašniško posvečenje, ki ga je Baraga podelil v Marquettu. Podelil ga je rojaku-Slovencu. Novo mašo je Vrtin pel v Hancocku. Negovi starši so po slovenski navadi pripravili slavnostno kosilo. Za dobro voljo je skrbel zlasti Čebulj, ki je brenkal na kitaro, pel in zbijal šale. - Vrtina je Baraga pustil v Houghtonu, kjer se je skazal kot dober dušni pastir in kot dober gospodar. Tudi njegov oče in sploh vsa družina so imeli izredne gospodarske zmožnosti; ker so bili tudi zelo pridni in podjetni, so zelo zabogateli. S svojo drugo župnijo Negaunee pri Marquettu je Vrtin prevzel tudi 16.000 dolarjev dolga za novo cerkev, a ga je v treh letih vsega plačal. V tej novi cerkvi je bil pozneje posvečen za škofa. V Negauneeju je postavil tudi župnišče in šolo.
Ohranila se nam je slika Barage na njegova stara leta. Pogled je brez bleska, viharji in meteži so mu ga bili pogasili. Dolgi lasje so brez življenja, a še niso popolnoma posiveli. V desni zgornji čeljusti mu manjkajo zobje. Na Langusovi sliki iz leta 1854 ima naprsni križec in verižico, ki so mu ju bili kupili za škofovsko posvečenje župljani Marijine cerkve v Cincinnatiju; na starostni sliki ima pa posnetek križca in verižice, ki mu ju je bil podaril cesar Franc Jožef.
Dr. Anton Ivan Režek poroča vil. delu Zgodovine saultsko-marquettske škofije (str. 283-285), da je obstojala še leta 1907, ko je to knjigo pisal, na ozmelju nekdanje Baragove škofije, na Keweenawskem polotoku, slovenska duhovnija z lastno cerkvijo, ki je zelo obogatela, so prihajale na Keweenawski polotok še druge slovenske družine, zlasti belokranjske. Odkar
so odprli izvrstni bakreni rudnik Red Jacket (Džeket) pri Houghtonu, so se zlasti tam naseljevale. Ko je v letih 1866-1871 v Houghtonu služboval Janez Vrtin, je on skrbel zanje. Leta 1871 je stekla železnica iz Ontonagona in iz Marquetta v Houghton. Kot škof je Vrtin leta 1889 poslal v Red Jacket duhovnika Jožefa Zalokarja, ki je stanoval pri župni cerkvi Srca Jezusovega in imel v njej službo božjo za Slovence in Hrvate. Že jeseni istega leta 1889 je pa prišel Vrtin blagoslovit vogelni kamen za slovensko cerkev. Posvetit jo je prišel v čast sv. Jožefu 18. novembra 1891 Mrak, ker je bil Vrtin odsoten. To posvečenje slovenske cerkve v Red Jacketu je bilo zadnje Mrakovo slovesno škofovsko dejanje. Poleti 1892 je za Zalokarjem prišel Marko Pakiž iz Sodražice. Slovenci so cerkev zelo radodarno vzdrževali. Na praznik Brezmadežne 8. decembra 1902 je pa pogorela. Nato so postavili novo, ko je z vsem stala preko 50.000 dolarjev. Je veličastna kamnita romansko-gotska stavba s tremi vhodnimi vrati in dvema zvonikoma. Ko je moral Marko Pakiž zaradi bolezni pustiti to službo, \e prišel za njim spomladi 1904 Luka Klopčič iz Železnikov. V letu 1907 je bilo, kakor piše Režek, v Red Jacketu okoli 350 slovenskih družin in okoli 400 zase živečih Slovencev. Tudi Hrvatje in Italijani so si postavili lastni cerkvi.
Dr. Režek je služboval v Houghtonu od leta 1895 do svoje smrti leta 1946.
V BALTIMORU ZADENE BARAGO KAP (9. oktobra 1866)
Že pred leti so se Baragi začele tresti roke in noge (paralysis šgitans). Ko se je leta 1866 s Čebuljem zadnjič peljal na ladji iz La Pčinta proti Mackinacu, se mu je roka tako tresla, da je pri skupnem obedu razlival juho iz žlice. To je zapazil tudi kapitan. Veljal je za redkobesednega, hrapavega moža. Prosil je Čebulja, naj sede na njegovo mesto, sam se je pa usedel k škofu, ga prijel z levico za glavo, z desnico mu je pa podajal jed. Navzoči so bili do zolz ganjeni; gospe so se "v imenu človečanstva in krščanstva” kapitanu še posebej prišle zahvalit. Odgovoril je, da je zelo ponosen, da je smel streči škofu, ki je najbolj znana in spoštovana osebnost ob Gorenjem jezeru.
To tresenje je Barago zelo utrujalo, ker je za vsak gib potreboval večjega napora volje.
V	septembru leta 1866 je moral v Hancocku neki dan štirikrat pridigati. Pri zadnji pridigi mu je začel pojemati glas in le s težavo je dihal; ljudstvu je rekel, da jim ne bo več mogel pridigati. - Od preutrujenosti mu je oslabelo srce, iz oslabelosti srca se je pa razvila huda naduha.
Bolehal je tudi na poapnenju žil (arteriosclerosis), ki je povzročila kap na notranje organe.
Prvi udarec kapi je začutil že 26. oktobra 1865. V pismu do Jackerja namreč vzklikne: “Moj Bog, kaj je to? Komaj še morem pisati. Desnica mi je ohromela. Kmalu ne bom več mogel pisati."
NADALJEVANJE
Hi ya’ll! It’s Julie!
I hope your summer is going really well, mine is. So far, I’ve gone to Bass Lake, Indiana, with my entire family, besides my immediate (just my mom’s side). Then we went to Kentucky and Tennessee with my Grandma and Grandpa, Fran and Ray Schultz, and my Aunt Diane, along with my mom and brother. That was a great way to get away.
Starting this month, I will be giving away a “S.W.U. Tip of the Month.” I hope you will be able to apply them in some way to your life. For instance this month’s tip is “Buckle Up.” Never think buckling up is too nerdy, because later on you’ll still be alive, while someone who didn’t wear one isn’t.
School is beginning in just a couple of weeks, and I’m not looking forward to getting up early. I’ll be a sophomore this year. I find it hard to believe that I am already in my second year of high school. But, I suppose that’s good thing. Starting school means that the fun ends and the serious me comes into play. Always remember that school is important no matter what your career turns out to be. It helps you in the long run, not hurts you.
I really like to hear from spme of you, and see what kinds of suggestions you could give, or what you like to do for fun. If you have a really neat saying or something that would make a great tip of the month, please send it to me. I’d love to hear it! If you just need a pen pal, I’d be happy to write you back.
LETTERS - WE GET LETTERS
Dear Evelyn, I’ve wanted so many times to write to ZARJA telling how much I enjoy each lodge’s article. July issue was so informative. The recipes are always terrific -I try most, and the other reports are equally enjoyable.
The teen section written by “Julie” is great! Glad to see the youngsters getting involved. Thank you, again.
Emilee Jenko, Br. 25, Cleveland
As I sit here at my desk, I am looking at a picture of something my friend and I did. Here’s an idea for you to try. We took a frozen cheese pizza, (or you can make your own), and we made what we like to call, Mr. Pizza Man. We took a yellow pepper and shaped two eye brows, and took a green pepper, and cut out two little circle for eyes, and shaped a nose, and lastly we shaped two lips out of a red pepper. Then, to make him look more like a person, we layed some ham on for hair. Now, you could be a little more creative if you like, or you can try what I did. Most importantly, ask parental permission first. Here is a picture of Mr. Pizza Man, after he was baked at 350 degrees until he was a golden brown. Cute, huh? The last step is the best step. EAT HIM!
Til next time,	Julie
IT’S IIM
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