Volume 79 Issue 2 March/April, 2007 The Dawn “SLOVENSKA BUfARICA” Palm Sunday Bou The Butarica The Butarica is usually blessed with the palms in church and then carried in the Palm Sunday Procession. Many families place it into a vase at home near other Easter decorations, on a table where the blessed food (žegen) is kept. It is also saved through the year as a symbol of Easter and when it becomes very dry, it is burned to extinction, not thrown away. et Zarja - The Dawn EDITOR: Debbie Pohar DIRECTOR OF DESIGN: Bonnie Pohar Prokup CONSULTING EDITOR: Corinne Leskovar EDITORIAL OFFICE: 1696 Illinois St., LaSalle, IL 61301 TELEPHONE: 815.223.9596 FAX: 815.224.1074 WEB SITE: www.swua.org PUBLISHER: Slovenian Women’s Union of America TELEPHONE: 815.727.1926 Vol. 79. No.2, March/April 2007 Published bimonthly Periodicals Postage paid at Joliet, IL and additional mailing offices. . Mary's Church, Cleveland, Ohio with a gigantic Butarica as it looks on Palm Sunday. Easter services conducted by Fr. John Kumse are beautiful and feature newly blessed Butaricas, as seen on the back inside cover. Photos by Phil Hrvatin How to Make a Traditional Slovenian Easter Symbol After featuring the butarica last year in the March/April 2006 issue of Zarja, we had many requests for the directions to make one. Step ’/y step instructions on how to make a butarica are on the first page. W hope you will try this on your own. Send us a picture. - Zarjc Staff (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Communications for the next issue of publication: Do you have something SWUA-related you would like to share with readers, like an event you want to let people know about or an idea for an article? We would love to hear from you! Please e-mail the editor at pohar4fa aol.com. We reserve the right to edit any article submitted, li is preferable that you submit your idea for discussion prior to writing an article. Articles must be related to SWUA events or members. The deadline for articles is the first day of the month preceding the issue. For example, articles for the May/June issue must be received by April 1“. Thank you. CONTENTS IN EACH ISSUE 1 From the Editor 2 National President’s Message 3 National Secretary News 4 National Convention News 16 SWUA Scholarship News IT’S IN EVERY SLOVENIAN 20 Men in a SWUA World 21 Geneology 21 Discovering your Slovenian Roots 23 Family Connected HERITAGE NEWS 25 The Path Taken - Dopoljena pot 27 Archival Records Scanned 27 Slovenian Heritage Museum 30 Branch Reports CULINARY 40 Entertaining ... With a touch of Slovenia From the Editor 0 @ I am especially excited about the approaching 25th National Convention and 80th Anniversary Gala. I have had the privilege of being involved in many of the planning phases for the upcoming events. I can tell you first hand the convention committee has been working very hard to organize a great four days for everyone. There is a fantastic line-up of events planned. Take a look at the back page of this issue to see how you can honor your family, friend or an occasion of your choosing while giving a donation to the convention. Your chosen picture and a short writing will be honored in the 25th National Convention souvenir booklet which will also be the July-August 2007 issue of the Zarja, which means every member across the nation will receive this booklet and your family/friend will be forever remembered. We will have a staff writer work with each submission to create a beautiful ad for others to admire. I am anxiously waiting to share with you the beauty of the area where I grew up with so many other Slovenians, the Illinois Valley. It is going to be truly enjoyable to visit with so many familiar faces again and to meet many of you that I know by name only. This is going to be a marvelous time and one that no one should miss! - Debbie Pohar, Editor “SLOVENSKA BUTARICA” How t0 d0 it: Palm Sunday Bouquet This is what you need for a Butarica 12 to 15 inches long: Branches of fresh greens, boxwood, yews, juniper and blooming pussy willows, cut to 12 to 15 inches. Trim off leaves from the bottom portion and leave only the leafy-bushy tops. Separately, tear or cut small pieces off more branches, about 3 to 4 inches in length, that will be used in as your construct the Butarica, row by row. Pieces of string, (one for each Butarica) 2 Vi yards, lightweight but strong. Ribbons, 1 inch wide, and cut into pieces 7 to 8 inches long. Make loops of these ribbons and sew the bottom ends side by side, about 5 of one color. The ribbons should be in various pretty colors of pink, blue, yellow, white, red, purple or green. For a Butarica about 12 inches long, you will want to use at least three colors. 'v"'"/%fThiS makes a nice place to hold the bouquet in your hands. LJUBLJANA s Take six of the long branches of greens, pussy willows in the middle, and tie them together tightly with the string right under the leafy part. Take a length of ribbon loops, any color, just below where the branches are gathered and go around the bunch, holding the loops as you go around, tops up. Tie the string tightly around the whole bunch, (branches and loops), and keep holding it tightly. Add a full row of the small pieces of greens. Take another color ribbon loops and do the same thing, placing them in your hand where you are holding the small pieces of the greens. Tie again with the string. That is the second row completed. Repeat the third row the same. Use as many short pieces of greens as needed to define the rows of ribbon loops. You can extend the butarica to make it wider and longer. If not, continue to tie the string around all the bare branches to the bottom securing it at the end with a looped knot. National President’s Message 25th National Convention “Be There or Be Square” Maybe some of you can remember the saying “Be there or be square”. Well that’s what comes to my mind when I think of how important it is to be at our 25th National Convention and 80th Anniversary Gala at Starved Rock in June. You will be just “square” with envy if you don’t make this historical trip. The convention committee is working very hard to make this a spectacular event and consider this - most of our members are within just 200 to 300 miles driving distance. Travel shouldn’t be difficult. A bus from the Cleveland area is planned and I believe we could possibly get other cities to do the same. This issue of the Zarja is filled with information and details pertaining to events and activities planned for June 21st through June 24th. This would be a great way for the family to have a get-away weekend and indulge in your Slovenian heritage. It will be like being in Slovenia without the long plane flight. Starved Rock has so much to offer. You will be amazed. By this time, 1 hope all branches have made arrangements to send a delegate to this important meeting. Every four years our organization faces major decisions and changes. You, as members, are vital to the outcome of these decisions. Your branch delegate/s is your voice. If your branch has decided not to send a delegate, I urge you to reconsider. There is still time to send a delegate. Contact Bonnie Prokup, National Secretary to make the appropriate plans. New To the Gift Shop From Slovenia comes a novel idea, postcards of BEAUTIFUL Slovenian foods. Turn the card over and you have the recipe! These cards are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face! Call the museum: 815.727.1926 First Midwest Bank Joliet, IL (815) 727-5222 rote t»r Kathleen Ferrante National President This convention we will vote for important bylaw changes and a new National Board. Since the amendments affect the appointed members of the National Board, appointments to the National Board will be made at the National Board meeting held in July or August by the new board. If you are interested in running for a National Office or would like more information about a National position, please contact Bonnie Prokup, Nominating Committee Chair. Remember, we are still having a Membership Drive. It is never too late to make a relative or friend a member. They can enjoy the same benefits of membership that you do. Ready to travel to Slovenia? If so, a trip is planned for 12 days in September. Look in this issue for all of the exciting details. Space is limited so I encourage you to make your reservations with Kollander Travel as soon as possible. Honoring the Past. Envisioning the Future. May each of you have a Happy and Blessed Easter. Kathleen Ferrante 178 Gaylord Dr. Munroe Falls OH 44262 330.688.4949 kdorchak@neo.rr.com Zarja The Dawn Donations $100 Donation Cameron, Mary Ruth *memory of mother Rosa “Samsa” Tobak, Branch 38 $50 Donation Heim, Lydia, Branch 30 Chilcoate, Frances, Branch 13 $20 Donation Polutnik, Stephanie, Branch 40 Križman, Jean, Branch 50 2006 Year End Total - $9,197 National Secretary News 25th National Convention Located at the Crossroads of SWUA In less than four months I will see many of you when you make the trip to the 25th National Convention. This convention is being held in Utica, IL which is approximately 10 minutes from my hometown. This is the first time the convention is being held in our area. I believe this is a great location for a convention as it’s the crossroad to many of our branches here in the Midwest. The majority of our branches are within driving distance and many will drive. We have a bus coming from Minnesota and one driving west from Ohio. A few will fly in and others are just a short distance away. The convention is an important time for SWUA. Not only do we update our bylaws but also we make new friends and it’s a great opportunity to build our organization. Now is the best time to encourage new members to join. Not only will members receive a small discount to attend various convention activities but also they will enjoy being a part of so much fun. And fun we will have! Please read in this issue all the exciting plans we have prepared for the convention. If at any time you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Many of you are probably Bonnie Pohar Prokup wondering how do we pay for such National Secretary an extravagant event. The answer is very simple - it’s the proceeds from the cookbooks we have been selling during the past four years. Even previous conventions were paid for by the cookbook sales. Anyone who has ever planned an event like this realizes how much it costs. Not only do we need to think of food and lodging but entertainment, decorations, gifts, hospitality room, activities and the list goes on. We worked very hard on keeping the costs to attend minimal so that it is affordable to all. The only way we bring in money is through the sale of ads (more information in this issue) and through the silent auction. Another reason for the convention is to elect a new board. Every position is up for election come June 2007. Have you considered running for a position? If so, please let me know. Bonnie Pohar Prokup 3119 Carrie Street Peru, IL 61354 wprokup@aol.com Welcome to our new members! Fredericks, Evan J, 1 Fredericks, Jeanne, 1 Fredericks, Rachael, 1 Fredericks, Ty, 1 Gruenke,Amy, 1 Schaeve, Cynthia, 1 Stancar, Frances C, 1 Sterk, Monica M, 1 Zunker, Justina, 1 Benedict, Danute, 2 Skow-Pucel, Christine, 2 Betz, Annette, 3 Betz, Kelsie, 3 Martinez, Skyla, 3 Martinez, Zandria, 3 Barbarich, Peter, 5 Black, Janet L, 5 Trauner, Rick, 5 Burtsell, Elizabeth J, 13 Sepaher, Marlina, 13 Kilian, Regina, 20 Kurtz, Karen Galle, 20 McCue, Joe, 20 Meagher, Dorothy J, 20 Panek, Anne, 20 Pechauer, Jill, 20 Rivera, Sister Barbara Jean, 20 Sienko, Bernie, 20 Tibbits, Nancy E, 20 Vershay, Phyllis, 20 Richards, Donna J, 23 Tesca, Sandra Yadlosky, 23 Tesch, Carmen, 23 Tesch, Laura, 23 Monk, Jen, 24 Pawlak, Patricia A, 24 Zeman, Sue, 24 Habjan, Vida F, 25 O’Block, Jenna, 26 O’Block, Kayla, 26 O’Block, Kristen, 26 Clarkson, Barbara, 30 Heim, Lydia, 30 Musich, Michelle, 30 Reynolds, Steve, 30 Stumm, Dona M, 30 Weaver, Patricia, 30 Fautch, Gregory J, 39 Fautch, Jeffrey, 39 Welander, Lauley M, 39 Mohr, Olga M, 43 Relien, Nathan James, 43 Strmšek, Meagan, 43 Zefran, Marilyn, 43 Zurawik, Chester, 43 Potočnik, Jeffrey J, 47 Turner, Sandra, 47 Križman, Katherine, 50 Marquis, Josephine, 93 Christenson, Leo, 99 Johnson, Theresa Zibert, 99 Schustennan, Patricia, 99 Akins, Diane Marie, 100 Edwards, Milena, 100 Stewart, Jacqueline, 100 Stewart, Julie, 100 Kamnikar, Leonard, 109 Lytle, Fay, 109 Medved, Karen, 109 Medved, Miro, 109 Mehle-Turk, Kay A, 109 Moren, Thomas, 109 Poferl, Betty, 109 Rademacher, Sue, 109 Soltesz, Kristina, 109 Soltesz, Lucinda, 109 Soltesz, Theresa, 109 77 New Members You Are Invited.... To the 25th National Convention and 80th Anniversary Gala June 21 Dear Readers: Everyone is invited to attend one of the most exciting events to hit the Slovenian Women’s Union of America in recent history. Not only are we celebrating the 25th National Convention but also the 80th Anniversary of our organization. Two awesome reasons to be a part of this history! Picture yourself traveling to the Illinois Valley, an area first attracted by Slovenian immigrants over 100 years ago mainly for the numerous coalmines. Today we have two active branches, 89 of Oglesby and 24 of LaSalle. Starved Rock Lodge will be the headquarters, a place of natural beauty, a place nestled within 2,630 acres of thick forests, 18 lush canyons and sparkling waterfalls, a place where everyone can experience adventure yet tranquility. You’ll find all this and more. The business portion and grand celebration will be held at the historical Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, 1L. By limiting ENVISIONING THE FUTURE HONORING THE PAST - 24, 2007 the change of destinations for different events it saves on both money and time. Plus it makes getting around so much easier. And events we have! We start off with a demonstration and tasting of wine, followed by an evening on the veranda, this is a an outdoor patio situated on a high bluff overlooking the State Park and the Illinois River where we will listen to the music of the Singing Slovenes of Minnesota. We will have a silent auction, potica contest, golf outing, baggo tournament, camp heritage, geneology, Slovenian art show, displays, Slovenian storytelling, musicians and Slovenian tourism and a Polka Mass. The fun will never end. The highlight will be Saturday evening for a grand Gala celebration of our 80 years of S WUA. Yes, the fun is waiting you at Starved Rock. Take a look at your calendar and make your reservation. This is one party you will not want to miss! Come see what all the BUZZ is about! For more information contact Bonnie Pohar-Prokup at wprokupffl aol.com or 815-223-9596. To learn more about Starved Rock Lodge and the surroundings please view the web site at http:// www.starvedrocklodge.com To make your reservations at Starved Rock Lodge please call 1 -800-868-ROCK, and let them know you are part of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. There are other hotels in the area. If you arc traveling with children be sure to look at Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort, located across from Starved Rock Park, which has a 24,000-sq. ft. indoor watcrpark. For more information please view the web site at http:// www.grandbearlodge.com or call 1 -866-399-FUNN. On a budget call LaQuinta Inn located in Peru, Illinois, only 5 miles from Starved Rock Lodge at 1 -815- 224-9000. Let them know you are part of SWUA. Corning from Minnesota... Join “The Singing Slovenes” Duluth, Minnesota For a Bus Trip to the 25th National Convention and 80th Anniversary Gala June 21 - 24, 2007 The bus will leave Duluth at 6:00am on Thursday, June 21. The cost is $260.00 per person based on double occupancy at LaQuinta Hotel in Peru, 1L. This includes round trip transportation, hotel taxes and three breakfasts. For additional information please call: Mary Spehar White: 218-626-2333 or Frank Bucar: 218-626-1928 Coming from Ohio... Join the Cleveland Bus to Starved Rock 25th National Convention and 80th Anniversary Gala Lakefront Bus Lines Join us for fun-filled travel on a comfortable and air-conditioned bus. This excursion will provide Slovenian music and a travel goodie bag. Thursday, June 21 - Leave the Cleveland area (Euclid City Hall and Solon Community Center) Along the way there will be brief stops for snacks/lunch. If there is interest we would also plan a brief stop at our Heritage Museum in Joliet. Sunday, June 24th - Leave Starved Rock Approximate time 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm Travel Costs: This is a 56 passenger bus. To help defer some of the bus cost we are using some of the profit ($1,200.00) from our Heritage Festival. The bus cost $3,000.00. Cost is based on having 40 passengers. Only $45.00 for round trip transportation If we have more passengers, the cost would go down. If we have fewer passengers, the cost would go up. For questions please call Kathleen Ferrante at 330.688.4949 or email her at kdorchak@neo.rr.com Registration must be made no later than May 1, 2007 Once we determine the exact cost, you will be notified. Payment must be made by May 15,2007 National Convention Activities Dear Members and Guests: The 25th National Convention is just months away. We have worked long and hard during the past four years preparing for this wonderful event. We believe this is going to be one of the greatest celebrations in the history of our organization in recent decades. This is something you won’t want to miss. We have many activities planned throughout the four days. Many are free, however there are a few that will require payment and reservations in advance. Read through our exciting list of events. (Delegates will be required to attend the meetings from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30p.m. on both Friday and Saturday.) Please note what requires pre-payment and reservations. All registration forms must be returned by May 1,2007 to guarantee your reservation. For those not coming as delegates you can arrange your own breakfast and lunches in either the restaurant or the snack shop. Or why not venture into town? We will have volunteers on hand in the hospitality room that would be more than happy to recommend a good place to eat. We look forward to meeting you on June 21, 2007. 2007 SWUA National Convention Committee Slovenian Women’s Union of America Pin Requires no registration Daily EXPERIENCE THE LOVE WITH SWUA PIN TRADING Totally new to the 25th National Convention this is a great opportunity to meet others, start a collection of beautiful trading pins and to take home memories of the wonderful days spent with fellow Slovenian-American’s across the United States. WHERE DO I START? SWUA Pin Trading is Very Easy! 1. This is open to anyone attending any part of the 25th National Convention. 2. Visit the Pin Trading Booth located in the hospitality room to view and purchase the pins. 3. Purchase a starter kit for $5.00, which includes a lanyard to wear around your neck, one National Convention collector’s pin and two pins to trade. 4. Additional pins can be purchased anywhere from $1.00 - $5.00 per pin. 5. Meet any National Officer wearing a pin trading lanyard and you can switch any pin with them. (They are obligated to trade - you make the deal!) 6. Throughout the four days additional pins will be given away complimentary for various events or rewards. 7. Pin trading is not allowed during convention meetings. All proceeds go directly into the SWUA Convention Fund. Bylaw Review Sessions * Requires no registration Thursday, June 21 between 3:00pm - 5:00pm or Friday, June 22 between 3:00pm - 5:00pm Hospitality Room “Open Discussion of Proposed Bylaw Amendments/ Revisions” with Denise Paula Bartlett, 2nd Auditor. Delegates vote on bylaw changes of great importance and demand serious consideration. Convention delegates and all interested members should attend this open discussion in order to fully understand the/reasons behind the proposals, which suggestions are endorsed by the current board, to voice their opinions and to hear opposing viewpoints. Silent Auction *Requires no registration Starved Rock Room Watch for a list of pre-bid items on our website www.swua.org. Thursday, June 21 - 7:00pm through Saturday, June 23 - 9:00pm A “can’t miss” silent auction is being prepared for you. We have all types of items for you to bid on including two HOT items; a Marija Pomagai picture hand painted by Helen Lukančič Valerugo and your very own Baggo set hand painted by Zarja Editor Debbie Pohar with a picture of a family leaving Slovenia on one end and a family arriving in America on the other end. Don’t know what Baggo is? You will have a chance to play the game and see how this is one of America’s favorite new games. Wine Tasting Extravaganza in the Gostilna Thursday, June 21 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm Located in the Great Hall of the Lodge Old Slovenian proverb states: “Life without holidays is like a long road without a Gostilna.” Advanced registration required! A Gostilna is a unique cultural monument of /1 our heritage. One notable characteristic of -Z inns was that both townsfolk and country people were welcome beneath their roofs. The first inns probably appeared with the development of traffic. In those days people only left their homes because of work or for other urgent reasons. People did not travel much and setting off on a journey, especially a long one, was a major undertaking. Along the way travelers would stop to slake their thirst and ease their hunger. Their horses would be rested or even changed, and inns offered sleeping accommodation for those who required it. The very> name Gostilna tells us that this is a place where a guest or gost can expect to receive hospitality (gostoljubje). The word gost is cognate with the Latin word hostis (originally meaning “stranger ”), the German word gast and the English word guest. All derive from the proto—Indo—European word ghostiformedJ'rom the rootghos meaning “to eat”. Thus the word originally denoted a stranger who was offered food by a host. A warm welcome awaits you at the Gostilna. Strolling musicians will be entertaining us for the evening. Come meet old friends and make new ones in the Gostilna and have some great Slovenian fun. Advanced registration required! Dear Parents and Children, It is with great pleasure that we invite you to the Slovenian Women’s Union of America’s Camp Heritage. This will be a great opportunity to meet children 6 - 16 years of age from across the United States of Slovenian heritage. The camp will be held on Friday and Saturday while the delegates are meeting and adult guests are participating in activities. The camp will have a Slovenian theme and all about having fun! Before and after camp hours can be spent with your family at all of the exciting events planned. Reserve your child’s place at camp. A letter confirming enrollment and check-in procedures will be mailed to each participant. 2007 SWUA National Convention Committee SWUA Golf Outing Join Don, Zarja Columnist “Men in a SWUA World” Friday, June 22 - Shotgun 10:00am Golf Course This is open to anyone of any skill level, and it is a 9 hole with cart scramble format so you can submit a team (4 players) or you are welcome to come as a single and we will place you on a team. Lunch will be provided after golf. Reserve your spot today. You’ll love the challenge! Advanced registration required! j Baggo Tournament * Requires no registration Saturday, June 23 - 3:00pm - 4:00pm On the Lawn Now here is a chance for anyone to participate in a tournament regardless of the shape you are in. The only requirement is that you can throw a beanbag. This is a great opportunity to mix with other Slovenian-Americans. Complete with live Slovenian music. (Just like an old fashion Slovenian picnic) THE FUTURE- Camp Heritage - Just for Kids! Friday, June 22 - 8:00am - 2:30pm Saturday, June 23 - 8:00am - 2:30pm Starved Rock State Park A “Slovenian” Veranda Party Friday, June 22 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm Starved Rock Room and VIP seating on the Veranda The menu is very typical of the Illinois Valley. Fried chicken, a local favorite along with other local specialties will make you want to come back for another visit. Following dinner we will turn to our left and walk out the French doors onto the lodge’s veranda where you will be overwhelmed by the view. The Veranda is located high on Starved Rock Veranda Party * Requires no registration Friday, June 22 - 7:00pm - 10:00pm Starved Rock is famous for it’s Friday Night Veranda Party. Throughout the warm months the Veranda is filled with people from all over the world to hear various entertainers. This is the first time for Slovenian music. This is open to the public, however seating is limited. Wedding display from Slovenian-American families Slovenian Tourism Art Show Meet Zarja the Dawn writers ZARJA THE DAWN - MARCH/APRIL 2007 t. Advanced registration required! ^ ^ a cliff overlooking the beautiful Illinois River. Grab your seat and get ready for our toe tapping favorite performers - the Singing Slovenes of Duluth, Minnesota. This show will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. You won’t want to miss this lively Slovenian group. Starved Rock Lodge Veranda Geneology Preserving Your Slovenian Artifacts In the Land of Gingerbread display and demonstration Plus many other displays and lectures! Slovenian Expo * Requires no registration Saturday, June 23 - 1:00pm - 5:00pm Various rooms throughout the hotel Slovenian Expo will feature various displays and lectures important to our heritage. National Convention Potica Contest Judging: Saturday, June 23 - 1pm - 4pm. Winners announced at the Gala 80th Anniversary Banquet, Saturday, June 23nd - 9:00pm. All members are encouraged to enter! (Judges will be outside experts on baking and cooking) The glory of the Slovenian kitchen: POTICA! Enter your home-baked potica and be selected as the best potica baker among members of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America! Win a prize! You’ll be featured in Zarja! Prize for the Best Potica will be given on the basis of best taste, texture, form and presentation! Entries will be accepted Thursday and Friday, June 21-22, 2007. A registration receipt will be given for each potica by the Contest Committee. Delegates may bring poticas from any member of SWUA. For delivery in person: Present potica, fully baked, not sliced, with complete recipe, and name (identity of the baker) attached. For mail delivery: Ship potica, fully baked, not sliced, and identified with name of baker and complete recipe. Potica should be well wrapped to preserve moisture, shape and texture. Shipped poticas must be received no earlier than Thursday, June 21, nor later than Friday, June 22, 2007. Ship to the following address: SWUA Convention Potica Contest Committee Starved Rock Lodge/Convention Center Utica, Illinois 61354 For further information, please call or email: (773) 275 111 5/cor lesko vaiia sbctilobal. net 80th Anniversary Gala Saturday, June 24 - 6:00pm - 10:00pm Starved Rock Room and Great Hall Join members and guests from across the United States and Slovenia as we celebrate 80 years of Slovenian-American history at our 80th Anniversary Gala. This elegant affair begins with cocktails and a “can’t miss” silent auction. Dancing the night away to live Slovenian entertainment follows a delicious exquisite dinner selected Advanced registration required! by Jenka especially for this evening, complete with potica and strudel. Price includes a commemorative Rogaška crystal gift from Slovenia. See Jenka’s article on page 40 for more information. Slovenian Polka Mass * Requires no registration Sunday, June 24 - 10:00am Starved Rock Room There will be a private service just for SWUA at the Starved will be by the Singing Slovenes. A cash collection goes to Rock Lodge. Father Blase Chemazar, OFM of Lemont, the Singing Slovenes for all their donated time and Illinois will be the celebrant of this special mass. Music entertainment all weekend. Everyone is Welcome...Come Join the FUN! Registration Packet Please use this form to let us know how you will participate at the SWUA 25,h National Convention. Registration Deadline: May 1, 2007 All delegate meal packages are paid for by the National Convention Fund. Name: __________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: ________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ____________________________________Email: _________________________________ Branch #: _________________________ (circle one) Delegate Alternate Guest Child Make check payable to Slovenian Women’s Union of America and return to: Kathleen Ferrante 178 Gaylord Drive Munroe Falls, OH 44262 1-330-688-4949 For Official Use Only Amount Paid: $ Check Number: Event Registration Wine Tasting Extravaganza in the Gostilna Thursday, June 21 - 6:00pm - 9:00pm Wine tasting experience that includes a wine glass. $ Free Delegates $ 15.00 Adult member $ 20.00 Adult Non-Member $ Free Child Breakfast Friday, June 22 - 7:00am - 8:00am $ Free Delegates $ 17.00 Adult Member $ 17.00 Adult Non-Member $ 9.50 Child (10 and under) Lunch Friday, June 22 - 12:00pm - 12:45pm $ Free Delegates $ 18.00 Adult Member $ 18.00 Adult Non-Member Slovenian Veranda Party Friday, June 22 - 5:30pm - 10:00pm Includes meal, coffee and VIP seating on theVeranda $ Free Delegates $ 30.00 Adult Member $ 35.00 Adult Non-Member $ 10.00 Special Child meal (10 and under) circle one Hamburger/fries Hotdog/fries Chicken fingers/fries Breakfast Saturday, June 23 - 7:00am - 8:00am $ Free Delegates $ 17.00 Adult Member $ 17.00 Adult Non-Member $ 9.50 Child (10 and under) Lunch Saturday, June 23 -12:00pm - 12:45pm 80th Anniversary Gala Saturday, June 23 - 6:00pm - 10:00pm Includes meal, dessert, coffee, entertainment and a commemorative piece of Rogaška crystal. $ Free Delegates $ 50.00 Adult Member $ 55.00 Adult Non-Member $ 12.00 Special Child meal (10 and under) circle one Hamburger/fries Hotdog/fries Chicken fingers/fries $ Free Delegates $ 18.00 Adult Member $ 18.00 Adult Non-Member Camp Heritage Registration Friday, June 22 - 8:00am - 2:30pm Saturday, June 23 - 8:00am - 2:30pm $ 30.00 for SWUA members $ 35.00 for SWUA non-members Camp fee includes activities, lunch on both days and a gift. Name:___________________________________________ Birthdate: ____________________ Address:________________________________________ Male / Female (Circle One) City:______________________State:______Zip:___________Shirt size: ______________ Parent/Guardian Phone: (______)______________ Email Address:___________________ Parent/Guardian Name: _____________________________________________________ SWUA Golf Outing Friday, June 22 - 10:00am Shotgun $40.00 Individual Fee includes 9 holes, cart, light lunch and a gift. Prizes awarded at Friday evening’s dinner. Team Name ^N^-tNVISIONn^G THE FUTURE Bylaws Amendments/Revisions We’ve come a long way since 1943! - The Members Speak! - Decisions in June 2007 In my copy of the Constitution, bylaws and Regulations of the SWU of America adopted at Pittsburgh, PA in May 1943 it states in Article II “The object for which the association is formed is: To unite female persons of Slovenian race origin and other women of the white race, living in the United States, who are in good health, have good moral character, are practical Catholics, and not over fifty years of age.” Whew! We’ve come a long way! Those restrictions wouldn’t be tolerated today. Here we are again - this time in 2007 in the 21st Century - with the opportunity to make changes that ensure that the bylaws of our organization reflect the will of the membership. Space allows for only a sample of thoughts and suggestions received from the membership. I’ve chosen the two topics that elicited the biggest response -the suggestions of a name change for the SWUA and the expanding of our purpose by removing restrictions from membership criteria, particularly the Christian requirement. The responses listed below represent all that have been collected from conversations in person and by telephone, and received by U.S. Mail and e-mail. Thank you to all who responded. The bylaws committee will review all submissions and present their recommendations to the National Board for their consideration. Final proposals will be selected by the National Board and officially printed in the May-June 2007 Zarja. With their votes, delegates at the June 2007 National Convention will be making the final decisions on several topics. In Favor of a Name Change • I am 100% Slovenian and very proud of it. I will continue to support SWUA although 1 wouldn’t mind a more inclusive name for the organization, (male) • We need to change the name of the organization. I propose Union of Slovenian Americans (UOSA or USA), (male) • The name of the organization could use an “update” to reflect all members as Slovenians and not gender. • My suggestion is Slovenian Family Union (SFU). • How about Families United for Slovenian Heritage (FUSH)? • The SWUA name needs to become more generic: to include all, men and women. • The more we change it, the more reason people will not know who we are - that we are a long existing organization that has helped many. How about Slovenian Men & Women’s Union (SMWU)? • United Association of Slovenians (UAS)? • 1 do believe we need to somehow incorporate a male reference to SWUA. Could we somehow keep the SWUA “attached”? • SWUA is out-dated and a change is necessary if we want men and boys or families to join. Eighty years ago was a different era. We are so much more than the name suggests. Women and Union need to be dropped. It just does not fit us. SŽZ is a worse message, has a foreign old feeling and SWUA is not understood either. Men do not want to belong to a woman’s organization. If it takes much money to change documents, etc., so be it. We will gain so much more by it in the long run. It is a must for our survival and growth. • The SWUA is already multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religion, so a more appropriate name is something along the lines of Slovenian Cultural & Historical Society (SCHS) (to cover Slovenian as well Denise Bartlett - Bylaws Committee as Slovenian-American topics from the past, present and future). • A point of information.. .former KSKJ is now KSKJ Life. • Obviously if the organization is actively soliciting men as members, the name should be changed. However, just where does the SWUA position itself? Other than encouraging the celebration of our Slovenian heritage, how do we differ from other organizations, such as KSKJ and SNPJ? • I recognize the historical significance of the “Women” designation, but when the decision was made to allow men to join, the designation of “women’s union” lost its meaning as being a group limited to women. The thought of becoming a member never occurred to me because I assumed the group was exclusively women. I would assume there are many other Slovenian males who continue to think as I did. I suggest Slovenian Union of America (SUA) because that name accurately describes who we are. (male) • I’d join the SWUA but I don’t want my obituary to read “Was an active member of the Slovenian Women’s Union.” (male) • I understand that if it weren’t for the women this organization may never have thrived: however in the modem day and age I feel we should be more gender compliant. There are many men who feel as strong about their ethnic background as the women. What about Slovenians of America (SA)? (male) • My husband, a member, thinks that changing our name is a “no-brainer”, that of course it should be changed to be more welcoming to men. I like the sound and look of United Slovenians in America (USA), United Slovenians of America (USA) or United Slovenian Americans (USA) because some people have negative outlooks in regards to unions. Against a Name Change • Leave SWUA as it is. From being in professional organizations that felt they had to change the name, it created more confusion than it was worth. If we are not proud to be Slovenian Women then abandon the whole thing. We are what we are and if guys want to join, that’s great. We are not an extremely well known group to begin with, so change the name and our identity is gone. • I completely disagree with the suggestion that we change the name of our organization. The SWU was founded in 1926 with the goal and purpose: “Foster our ideals and ambitions as an open forum for all the women of Slovenian birth, where they could freely express their opinions There are many Slovenian organizations in this country and most do not have the word “Women” in their names. We are UNIQUE in that our stated goal is to further the advancement of Slovenian women. Will we have to change our goal which served us well all these years? Males are always welcome, but they must respect the purpose of our organization. By changing our name, we change from an organization with a special mission to just another Slovenian group. In Favor of Allowing Non-Christians to Join • The bylaws could state that the organization was founded and is based on Christian principals and further state that those of all faiths are welcome to join. • Any barriers to SWUA involvement have to be removed. • Do we have to say “are Christians”? Who is to say if somebody doesn’t believe in a god? I think that should be struck from the bylaws. In general I would like to see the bylaws less religiously slanted. • We need to build this organization into a class act. It can happen. We need to draw members to us, not put up barriers. Everything about an organization speaks! • We will never be the large organization we once were. But if we continue building a more modern organization - the young ones will come. We need to consider our image in everything we do. • We are struggling to survive here and we want anyone interested in Slovenian heritage to join. • From an extended family member - My relative belongs to the “Daughters of the American revolution.” They had to open their doors to all races. • In this day and age we have to avoid discrimination lawsuits whether it be racial, sexual, gender, religious, etc. • There is an assumption that everyone is Catholic. Why? Because branches are not recruiting beyond their church communities. Our membership is no longer 100% Slovenian-Catholic anymore. We have Asian members due to inter-marriage, Asian and Indian adoptions. The bylaws and assumptions the SWUA makes need to be re-evaluated. SWUA has to remember to be politically correct and sensitive. • I do not attend my branch meetings because I am not Catholic. • I joined to meet others of the same nationality and to have Slovenian fun. • I would like to see the word Christian remain with an additional line including all other religious entities. But do not remove the word Christian. • After researching other Slovenian organizations and how they define themselves, I like how the Society of Slovene Studies says “The Society’s ranks are open to all persons..” (so simple and not restricting anyone). • Many Slovenian-Americans are now blended into different ethnicities and religions. We can’t have any barriers to involvement or descendants of our original members, or other prospective members, may not feel welcome. Descendants may be down to lA, 1/8, 1/16 Slovenian heritage and non-Christian, but curious about their Slovenian roots or doing genealogy research. If someone wants to join simply because they are planning a trip to Slovenia and want to learn more beforehand - again the bylaws are restrictive. • Members: AH individuals, race, religion, sex. • Remove any barriers to new members. New members breathe new life. It creates more volunteers. Secures longevity. New members mean we SURVIVE! • The bylaws need to catch up to where we are. Why would this be drastic? Catholics will still be the majority, but there needs to be an awareness that there are non-Catholics in the membership and are branches/members welcoming to all? 1 doubt that there are any Buddhists, Hindus, pagans, etc. waiting in the wings to take over. This organization is struggling to survive, to have a future - making religion the overriding concern puts a general interest in Slovenians and/or Slovenian Americans as secondary! Why would we want to turn anyone away who has an interest in Slovenians or Slovenian-Americans? • We are no longer a burial society, but a historical or cultural society. Many Slovenian-Americans are now blended into different ethnicities and religions. • My suggestions are: Christian remains, as that is what this organization was founded on. If nothing else, for the respect of our mothers and grandmothers. It is open to ALL Slovenian and ALL other people for membership. No one is turned away but it is a Christian organization. We do not force any religious views on members. We want all to join and enjoy the Slovenian culture, camaraderie, fellowship, and all that our heritage has to offer. • If I am successful in my attempt for an international adoption of a baby, and I choose to raise my child to honor its customs, traditions and religion, and want that child to belong to SWUA to also honor and learn about my heritage, but am told that he/she is not welcome to join— then I’m no longer a member and saddened and ashamed! Get in the 21st Century! • Find another way - keep the word Christian and add another phrase that non-Christians are accepted under conditions. • Slovenian Astronaut Sunita Williams is currently spending six months at the International Space Station doing repair work. We can’t invite her to join SWUA because she is Hindu. I strongly urge that we repair our bylaws before she returns to Earth so that we can extend a heartfelt invitation to join a welcoming SWUA. • Upon learning of Slovenian-Hindu Astronaut Sunita Williams - “WOW! Can you imagine how many more people out there have mixed heritages that would compliment our organization?” • Upon learning of Slovenian-Hindu Astronaut Sunita Williams - “A very good example of how our antiquated religious requirement would exclude this smart Slovenian-American woman!” • Our membership needs do not include that members be Christian. To be removed. • So what if some members don’t believe that Jesus Christ is their savior? That’s all that the word “Christian “really refers to. I have encountered so many very religious Christians that certainly do not act “Christian-like”. Four sisters in my family - 1 Catholic, 1 Lutheran, 1 Jehovah Witness and 1 Agnostic/Atheist - all warm, caring, successful SLOVENIAN women. That’s what binds us. • Change the wording to reflect that we are a Christian-based organization - within the spirit of unification. • I joined SWUA not because of the word “Christian” BUT because of what SWUA meant, an organization that strives to maintain, educate and renew Slovenian heritage, custom and traditions for those of Slovenian descent living in the US. And this was what was most important to my grandparents when they immigrated here, that they could be with people who shared the same culture and customs. SWUA does not promote itself as a “religious” organization that promotes Slovenian culture, custom and heritage. In Slovenia today there are Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, and even some pagans. They are Slovenian first, regardless of their religious belief. Against Allowing Non-Christians to Join • A Midwest branch report states that “members thought it absolutely absurd about inviting non-Christians to join our organization. Our organization was built upon our religious values and most cannot understand that someone who does not believe, would even consider joining the SWUA.” The branch submitted a written petition of the members present at their December 2006 meeting. The question was “Are you in favor of allowing Non-Christians to become members of the SWU?” Seventeen voted NO and two voted YES. • The Christian values and beliefs are an important element of our organization. I am in favor of continuing to emphasize our Catholic traditions of mass at important events. • If it happens that we allow those of all faiths to join will we ever again be able to have a polka mass? • “Christian” equals ethical individuals. • In this day of political correctness, many people want to show how tolerant they are. I joined the SWU specifically because it was unique in being a Christian organization, rather than joining any number of many other Slovenian groups which are secular. And praying now and then never hurt anyone. Would a Moslem organization change its by-laws to accept non-Moslem family members? Absolutely not! Certainly some people are excluded from membership in the SWU, but I am also quite sure that each of us could find a group where we are not welcome even though other members of our families belong. I wonder how many new members we would get if we changed deleted Christian from our name bylaws. Maybe at first we would pick up a few new members, but I think over the years we would lose more members than we gain because we have lost our uniqueness and are just another Slovenian organization looking for members. • As far as “Christian” is concerned, Slovenia is still a Christian, even a Catholic country. I see nothing wrong with the SWUA being an organization for Christians only. This begins to tie in with the aim of ‘social, moral and intellectual development of members’. Many years ago it wasn’t an issue, today even POLITICS is involved. Just how are members to develop in those ways? If we have member’s spouses who are Jews, Muslims, etc al., THEY DO NOT HAVE TO BE MEMBERS. ANYONE can be a GUEST at cultural functions, picnics, etc. — (even a Mass!) membership is NOT required. • I agree that we need to keep our Christian principles in place and that members be aware that they are joining a Christian organization - So my vote would be NO. However, if Slovenian-American heritage is our focus, that encompasses all walks of life and different denominations/religions. Or do we keep SWUA growing on its foundation of Christianity as well leaving out those of Slovenian heritage that are of different backgrounds? • In years to come it will change, but I don’t think it’s up to us to be the first. Let’s see what other lodges like ours will be doing. By dropping Christian from our organization we are acting disrespectful to our long time members because one of the main reasons they joined was thinking SWU followed their religious principles. ----------------------------------------------- TEZAK FUNERAL HOME “First in Service Since 1908” Licensed Producer: Richard K. Tezak (815) 722-0524 American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) 1211 Plainfield Road Joliet, IL 60435 ----------------------------------------------- Scholarship News SWUA June 2007 Convention’s Joyous Entertainment Featuring -1982 Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Winner! THE SINGING SLOVENES of Duluth, Minnesota “In the end we will conserve only what we love, We will love only what we understand, We will understand only what we are taught” Senegalese Conservationist, Baba Dioum Featuring Lead Singer and Assistant Director: MARY SPEHAR WHITE 1982 Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Winner! Mary, daughter of William and Suntina Spehar, Duluth, Minnesota was the 1982 recipient of the Marie Prisland Scholarship. When one meets her, one is struck with her love of Slovenian music, her enthusiasm of life, her sincere interest in others, and most obvious, her lovely face. Her first singing experience was as an elementary student, when Father Stanley Dolsina, a priest from Slovenia, who was serving at that time at St. Elizabeth’s Church in Duluth asked her to sing in front of the congregation. Since that time she has sung continually as a cantor, at weddings and funerals and most importantly has been a member of the Singing Slovenes for the past 25 years. Mary graduated from the University of Minnesota, Duluth, with a degree in Education but later went into the banking business. She is currently the Lodge President of KSK.J, the SWUA Minnesota State Treasurer, and Vice President of SWUA Branch 33, Duluth. Her Mother Suntina Spehar, who is a 50 year member, and her Aunt Ann Podgoršek (now deceased and a former SWUA National Officer) had a profound influence on Mary’s love of Slovenian culture. Mary is also a guitarist and devoted Minnesota Vikings fan. Mary Spehar White and Frank Bucar steel mills and he was a high school “jock” who would not admit to an interest in music at the time - it was considered “wimpy”. After high school graduation Frank spent a year working on the “LaSalle”, one of the Cleveland Cliffs Ore carriers, an adventure of which one could write pages. He and high school friends had been attending polka dances in the Twin Cities and neighboring communities for some time. They liked the music and from Slovenian Polka Kings, such as Frankie Yankovic, they learned Slovenian folk music. At 25 years of age, Frank began taking accordion lessons. Soon there was a group of about 14 young people, including Mary Spehar, 18 years of age, that began meeting in family home basements to work on their own sounds, later graduating to neighborhood garages for rehearsals. In 1979 the group was known as the “KSKJ Slovenian Singers” and later adopting the name, “Singing Slovenes” in the early 1990’s. Since then this group has grown in membership and become a professional organization. Visit the “Singing Slovenes” website at http:// www.singingslovenes.com for more information on their music, photos, CDs, future stars, and hear one of their favorite folksongs. Featuring “Singing Slovenes” Organizer and Director: FRANK BUCAR Frank’s early years were spent in an Austrian refugee camp in the Alps, near Spittal. He remembers the beauty of that area before arriving in Duluth, Minnesota as a young child. His parents were from Cerklje, Slovenia before war forced them to relocate. Frank grew up as a typical American young lad of the 50’s and 60’s - his father worked in the Future Stars: Hannah Hudson, Suntina Spehar, Taylor Stewart and Nathan Hudson Frank shared two personal insights: First, “My parents always spoke Slovenian at home so I grew up learning two languages. One should not be embarrassed about speaking Slovenian. It has served me well when on occasion I was able to do some translating for Slovenian soldiers who in 1991 visited Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama, and in 2001 at Fort Benning, Georgia. ” When skiers from Slovenia come to Duluth to compete, Frank is there to meet and greet them. Second, of the work he is doing; “My Dad had to flee his native home and now I, as his son am helping to gain respect for it This last statement explains Frank’s devotion and You will cherish every moment of The Singing tremendous energy that he directs to the promotion of Slovenes’performance. You will enjoy meeting its Slovenian music. COME to the SWUA CONVENTION! charming members. if- _ " Scholarship Donations $10,000.00 Gift from Rose Marie Princ to fund scholarships of 2007 and 2008 $200.00 Rose A. Arthmire (+Antonia Ozanich - Keewatin, MN) $100.00 William Klun Family (+William Slogar) $50.00 Branch 42, Maple Hts, OH in honor of Dr. Vladimir Rus Gerzin Family:Jane,Joe, Dave, Colleen, Nancee (+Jane Yadlosky) Gladys Bartol in honor of Mary and Dan Turvey’s 50lh Wedding Anniv. $40.00 Phyllis Fon (+Nadia Stanich) *see story Agnes Kurnec Family: Mother Mary, Aunt Matilda, Father Joseph, and Husband, Edward $25.00 Virginia Ivancich (+Jane Yadlosky) $10.00 Ed & Judy Zupancich (+Jane Yadlosky, Former Sec. of Br.23, Katherine Yuratovac (+Leona Mandich) $5.00 Branch 23, Ely, Mn (+Agnes Zaverl), (+Mary Malovasich) ^^^^^DoloresK^Maki(+Mary Malovasich)^ FRANCIS KOSMERL SCHOLARSHIP - available to Slovenian students attending University of St. Thomas in the Duluth, Minnesota area. Contact Susan Brady, Office of Student Financial Services, University of St. Thomas phone 1-800-328-6819 ext 2-6553 SLOVENE AMERICAN STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS are available to attract “heritage students” Details at http:// www.academic-solutions.coin/slovenia/scholarships.htm Contact Ryan Lorenz of Academic Solutions, London, UK fax 020 7813 3253 SLOVENIAN WOMENS’ UNION SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION - to receive a new updated brochure, contact Marge Church at 1028 Skyland Dr, Macedonia Ohio 44056 or Mary Turvey, 52 Oakridge Drive, Marquette, Michigan 49855 Sending sincere best wishes to all of you and an enormous “Thank You “ to Mrs. Rose Marie Princ for helping to make the SWUA Scholarship Foundation what it is today. - Mary Turvey, Director SWUA Scholarship Foundation CONTRIBUTIONS ARE SINCERELY WELCOMED AND TAX EXEMPT. *Phyllis Fon of Branch 5, Indianapolis, Indiana shared the following story: Nadi Stanich lived with her parents across the street form Holy Trinity Church. A spinster, she took care of her parents until they died and was very active in church activities and SWUA meetings until she passed away about 6 years ago. The home was emptied and sold to a single man. Recently someone doing attic repair on the house, found two boxes of magazines and books in a foreign language. The box was labeled “Property of Fr. Grannon” (Fr. Gannon was a former priest of Holy Trinity Church) It is not every day that a young man comes to the Slovenian National Home with boxes of Slovenian books. Phyllis was able to retrieve them, air the boxes out and mail them to me. 1 found a home for all of the magazines, many were “Ave Marias” which the Baraga Archives was pleased to receive, books went to an immigrant friend here in Marquette and the remainder, “Novi Svet” copies went to someone in Minnesota who is scanning old Slovenian literature onto CDs for future reference. THE SINGING SLOVENES and “groupies” Touring Slovenia with SWUA A trip to Slovenia is special any time of the year. However, nothing can describe visiting Slovenia in its entire splendor in Autumn. This exceptional time of the year enables us to avoid the larger summer tourist crowds and hot weather. The Slovenian Women s Union of America encourages Slovenians to retain our bonds of our Slovenian heritage and culture. Join us for this extraordinary 12-day tour highlighting our exquisite and beautiful homeland - Slovenia. We encourage you to make your plans as soon as possible, as space is limited. Kathleen Ferrante SWUA National President Hollander World Travel 1-800-800-5981 Hidden Highlights of Slovenia September 17 - September 28. 2007 Tour Package Includes: • Round Trip Air Fare from Cleveland (call for price from any major U.S. city) • First Class Hotel Accommodations • Private Motorcoach Transportation for Sightseeing and transfers • Knowledgeable English-speaking Tour manager throughout the trip • Walking city sightseeing tours with expert local guides • Buffet Breakfast and most dinners as indicated in the itinerary • Local meals at unique local restaurants • All hotel taxes and service charges • Baggage handling at hotels - 1 large bag each • Sightseeing as described in the itinerary • Comprehensive Travel Documentation prepared by Kollander World Travel Land Cost: $2078.00 (Per Person Double Occupancy) Single Supplement: +$355.00 Airfare: $799 from Cleveland or $925 from Chicago to Ljubljana (Please call for other cities) +NOT INCLUDED: Government Taxes, Fuel Surcharges and Security Fees (Approximately $350 per person) +Priced is based on current exchange rate ($1.30 USD/Euro) and is subject to change if the rate varies, by more than 3% at the time of full payment. Minimum 25 participants September 17 Depart the United States Travelers head to their home airports for connecting flights to Ljubljana Slovenia. Enjoy the fine service aboard Adria Airways, the flag carrier of Slovenia. September 18 Arrival to Slovenia Mid day arrival to Ljubljana, Brnik airport. We will be met by tour guide and motorcoach driver just outside the arrivals area. We begin our trip in the majestic Alps of Slovenia as we head north to Kranjska Gora. We check in to the Hotel Kompas with its stunning views of the Julian Alps. We’ll have some leisure time to take a refreshing stroll (or nap!) and adjust to the new time zone and surroundings. Enjoy a Welcome to Slovenia dinner tonight. D September 19 Bovec - Kobarid - Goriška Brda We begin our exploration of Slovenia with a trip to the famous Planica valley and its world record ski jumps at the foot of the Tamar Mountains. We continue across to Mt. Vršič, stopping at the top for a piece of potica and tea, continue to the Austro Hungarian era towns of Bovec and Kobarid situated along the Soča river. Visit WWI museum in Kobarid. We’ll stop for lunch in the Goriška Brda vineyards area with a possible stop at a tourist farm with private wine cellar. Return via Predil pass back to Kranjska Gora for dinner and overnight at the hotel Kompas. We’ll have some time this evening for a visit to the Casino or a swim in the new swimming pools center. B, L, D September 20 Lakes Bled and Bohini After a hearty breakfast in the fresh air we board our coach and take a local road across Radovna river valley and stop in the village of Dovje to visit a typical Gorenjsko region house: Kovačnica. We then continue across the Pokljuka plateau to Alpine Lake Bohinj Try the new cable car lift to the top of Mt. Vogel for spectacular scenic views of the Triglav National park. Enjoy a light lunch at the mountain top gostilna. We then wind thru the Triglav Park region en-route to Lake Bled. We visit the classic church perched on the small island in the center of the lake by traditional wooden boats or “pletna” then back to the shore for a stop at Villa Bled for a piece of kremschnitte, the typical Bled pastry and a cup of coffee or tea. Visit the national shrine of Brezje before enjoying a typical old style Slovenian dinner in the 500 year old Radovljica restaurant Lectar. Return to Kranjska Gora for overnight. B, L, D September 21 Škofja Loka - Velenje - Maribor On our way to Maribor, stop in Škofja Loka, the second oldest town in Slovenia and stroll the old narrow streets, visit the very comprehensive filled Ethnographic museum, where many people will recognize the tools and utensils that their grand parents or great-grand parents used a long time ago (in the fields or in the house and kitchen... ). We also visit Nace’s house, a typical old house that has been preserved. Stop in Crngrob where the Church of the Annunciation houses very famous frescoes and probably the largest gilded altar and biggest organ in Slovenia. Continue to Kropa, a small village that used to be the area’s metal workhorse for centuries, mining iron ore and hammering out the nails (Venice still stands on Kropa nails) and the many decorative wrought iron works that are still used around Slovenia. Continue across the heart of Slovenia en-route to Maribor, with a quick stop in Trojane for a donut. Check in into deluxe Hotel Habakuk Spa. Dinner at the Pri Treh Ribnikih restaurant in downtown Maribor with a glass of local wine. B, D September 22 Ptui - Jeruzalem We’ve reserved the morning for spas activities and enjoying the facilities of our modem hotel/spa. Early afternoon we depart for nearby Ptuj, the oldest town in Slovenia. Visit their cultural museum in the old castle which holds an interesting collection of wall knitted paintings, and the typical Kurent masks that are so popular in this part of the region Štajersko. The Kurent is a symbolic creature which people used to scare away the Winter and welcome the Spring. Of course you have to visit the wine cellar in Ptuj which is also among the oldest in Slovenia, and partake of an informative wine tasting. Continue along the vineyard area of Slovenske Gorice to come to the top of Jeruzalem hill where dinner with house wines awaits us at Taverna Novak with a local accordion player. Return to Maribor hotel for overnight. B, D September 23 Maribor - Šmarieta Depart Maribor and visit and tour the Velenje Coal Mine to see how many of our ancestors earned a living. Then to Olimje to have a look at one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. Afterwards we visit the health spa ‘Atomske Toplice’, a local chocolate factory, and for a change, a brewery. After a snack, we will continue our journey towards the wine-growing region Bizeljsko famous for its light and fresh wines. You will have a snack and try the exquisite sparkling wines produced by the well-known winegrower Istenič. Accommodation at the Castle Otočec or the hotel in Šmarješke spas. Dinner tonight at the castle Otočec. B, D September 24 Bela Kraiina Drive to Novo Mesto, the center of the Doljensko region and visit the old city on a strategic bend in the river. Free time for walking around and shopping the small city center. Continue to Črnomelj and the area of Dragatuš to see some of the Regional Park ‘Lahinja’ and how a “gudalo”, a typical folk instrument is made. We’ll also get to taste some local “pogača”. Close to Vinica, in Adlešiči we visit the Cvitkovič family who still keep a tradition of handcraft flax-linen products. Time permitting stop at the local beekeeper to learn about this ancient Slovenian craft. Upon return, stop in Metlika for a visit to their wine cellar. Dinner tonight in a typical Dolenjska vineyard lodge called a ‘Zidanica”. Overnight Dolenjska region B, D September 25 Ljubljana After breakfast a short drive across the rolling hills of the farm land of Slovenia takes us to the capital city of Ljubljana. Travel magazines hail the revitalized city as an ideal vacation destination with its expansive pedestrian only zone, clever shops and cafes and friendly local population. We’ll check in to our centrally located hotel this afternoon. A brief walking orientation will acquaint you with the many attractions within easy walking distance of your hotel. B September 26 Ljubljana Free day in Ljubljana. Time is set aside for possible receptions with local officials, visiting friends and of course shopping! B Optional tour today: Piran and Izola with cooking classes: Drive to the Slovenian coast, take a short walking city tour of Piran and take a boat ride along the Portorož bay with prosciutto & cheese and local wine & musical entertainment, drive to Izola where we stop for a short city tour and cooking classes at their Cooking School. Learn and assist to prepare a typical Slovenian meal, take home the recipes and an official diploma. Return to Ljubljana. September 27 Ljubljana A reception for the SWU tour may be planned for today in the city center. We will also offer several optional day trips. Those interested may take a day trip to the city of Venice. Nearby Lake Bled Golf course also beckons those golf enthusiasts in the group. Tonight be sure to rendezvous for our Farewell to Slovenia Party with music at a local gostilna, Pri Krač in Dolsko near Ljubljana. Overnight at our hotel. B, D September 28 Ljubljana - Depart Departure transfer to LJU airport for your flight home. The beauty of Slovenia is calling You! " B ed Sept 2005 An escort, 1st class tour featuring the Music and the People of SLOVENIA. The Sfovenian "1 Yemen's 'Union jrrastnts: Midden :Hn]hlic]hts of Slovenia _________Sept&mb&i-17 - 28, 2007___________________ visiting: Krajnska Gora A'ps, Lakes Bled and Bohinj, Škofja Loka, Veenje, Maribor, Smarjeta, Be a Krajina legion, Ljubljana Fgr.fl comply,descriptive t»p<;hgrq, Piggsc ca pr, visit? Hollander World Travel a 971 E. 185 St. Cleveland. Ohio 44119 (216) 692-1000 * (800) 800-5981 www.kollander.com Travel Men in a SWUA World Don Baldin, Branch 24, enjoying a bottle of wine SWUA Golf Outing Can you believe it? They are actually putting me in charge of a golf outing at the National Convention. Well, we know two things for sure, one is that the pivo will be cold and the fun will be hot! I can’t wait; this is going to be the event at the convention that you are going to want to tell your friends back home about. This outing is going to be great! Whether you are a good golfer, bad golfer somewhere in between or never played before and want to give it a try this is the golf tournament for you. As long as you want to enjoy a nice day and have some fun come join old Don and I promise we will only talk about the good shots and we’ll relax with a beverage of your choice and get to know each other. So how does Don run a golf tournament you ask? Well as you can imagine the most important part is fun, I really don’t care what the final tally is, what you shoot isn’t as important as how you shoot it. I love the stories that start with “you won’t believe this one”, you are gonna love this one” or the infamous “I’ve never seen this before”. That’s what this tourney is all about. Sure we’ll have a trophy for the winners but we’ll have better prizes for some categories. What are the categories you ask? Well you’ll just have to come and find out. But you can be sure they will be a little different, a little off base and a lot of fun and laughs. So come on out and let’s pack the course and have a great time. I know some of you will be in meetings all day and would like to play but can’t, but don’t worry we’ll think about you as we yell “Fore” and laugh with each other. Slovenian super-swimmer Martin Strel The readers of Zarja would be familiar with Slovenian super-swimmer Martin Strel. In August of 2006 he came to St. Paul, Minnesota, for the SWUA picnic and to unveil a mural to Bishop Baraga. In the lakes of Minnesota he also practiced for his forthcoming swim of the length of the Amazon River, over 3,300 miles. This is nearly the distance between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans over the continent of South America. On January 24,2007 he called from Atlanta on his way to the headwaters of the Amazon in the Peruvian Andes. On February 1, 2007 - Day 1 of his swim, Martin started swimming from a jungle setting. The peaks of the Andes were shrouded in a gossamer mist of clouds. A freshwater dolphin appeared ahead of him, seemingly to lead him downstream toward the Atlantic Ocean. Martin also swam Another part of the convention I’m going to be helping with is the baggo tournament, what’s baggos? It’s like horseshoes, except instead of a stake you throw at a hole in the center of a box and instead of heavy horseshoes you throw bean bags. It’s a great time and anyone can play. So let’s look forward to that as well as the golf tournament. I guess you can say I get to have a part in all the fun stuff, big surprise huh? So, if you’re planning on coming to the convention sign up for the baggo and golf tournament and I’ll be sure to get to meet you. If you’re not sure if you if you’re coming or not, try to because it’s going to be a memorable time. If you have any questions and want to contact me you can do it at doomsports@aol.com and as always may good luck be yours. - Don Baldin by a Lagarto alligator. To fend off creatures he is escorted on each side by kayaks, his son Borut in one of them. On Day 3 Martin swam through fog and between branches sticking up from giant trees that were anchored in the mud of the river. His main escort boat with a Film crew lies anchored near the bank. On this day Martin swam over 70 miles. ...On February 4 he will swim past the deadly confluence of the Pachitea and Ucayali rivers. A small boat will ply ahead to scout the best rout for his swim. To get caught up on Martin’s epic swim go to www. amazonswim .com. Yul Yost 3015 Fairview N St. Paul MN 55113-1244 yulyost@msn.com Genealogy by George The Genealogical Quest This month we feature an article by renowned genealogist, Branka Lapajne, of Canada. Branka has written a book on researching Slovenian families and performs research in Slovenia for clients. Her guidebook is available by writing to: BML Publishing Co. Inc., 108 Hollywood Ave, Willowdale Ontario M2N 3K3, Canada. The cost is $20.1 have personally engaged her to conduct some research for me and find her reliable and economical. Next issue I will summarize a discussion I had with Mary Urban on her approach to conducting research. Mary specializes in Willard, Wisconsin, Waukegan, Illinois and the region around Vmika, Slovenia. It was just after I wrote my column regarding preservation efforts that I was contacted by Richard Terselic of Washington, DC, regarding a preservation questionnaire he and several others were putting together. My primary concern is and convention talk will be about preservation issues and challenges. Richard contacted Ambassador Samuel Zbogan for assistance in obtaining a Slovenia-America perspective on preservation efforts in America. At this time only five organizations that are (jtwge Plant' composed of Slovenian Americans or work to preserve the Slovenian immigrant experience replied to the questionnaire sent out by the Ambassador’s office. One respondent was SWUA. I continue to believe strongly that organizations need to network to ensure that not only is their literature preserved, but that other aspects of this American experience are not discarded but properly cared for. If you are interested in more details regarding this effort, then contact me by email at doblice@,gmail.com or write to me at 1307 Dragon Head Drive, Valrico, FL 33594. My convention piece is titled, UNITE, PERSEVERE, PRESERVE. For now, Adijo, George Plautz Discovering Your Roots Starting the Search for Slovenian Ancestors in the U.S. By Branka Lapajne, Ph.D. Researching one s Slovenian ancestors can be can be difficult to go back to the early 1700 s or church records lost through war, fire or simple But this is a problem many interested in researching their Slovenian ancestors would love to experience. Sometimes, from the perspective of American descendents, researching one hundred years after the arrival of their Slovenian ancestors in America, frustration can set in just trying to locate the place of origin. Some individuals may be fortunate to have a birth or marriage certificate belonging to the immigrating Slovenian ancestor. If this is the case, you are well on your way. Not only do these documents provide the names of the parents (including the mother’s maiden name), but they also record the place of birth, or residence at the time of marriage. In addition, the document gives the name of the parish and diocese to which the family belonged. For those with no original documentation, just narrowing down the area of search may appear hopeless. While Slovenia is a small country, it is divided into several dioceses: the both rewarding and Jnistrating. Sometimes it even late 1600 s because of the lack ofofficial neglect. Archbishoprics of Ljubljana and Gorica and Bishoprics of Maribor and Koper, which are further made up of over 700 parishes. (There are also the more recently created Bishoprics of Celje, Novo Mesto and Murska Sobota, though the latter do not have archives for official church records.) With many surnames found throughout Slovenia, locating the place of origin may seem daunting. There are various US databases one can access to start the search. If you know where your ancestors lived in 1930, the U.S. census can be a great help. Occasionally the nationality is incorrect, with Slovenians recorded as Slovaks and vice-versa. Some are also recorded as being Yugoslav, even though the majority emigrated before Yugoslavia came into existence. In the 1920 census, Slovenians can also be identified as Austrian, a description common in all older census records. In some instances I have even found Slovenians identified as being German. While census records provide the year of immigration, often these years differ from census to census. With a possible range of immigration a look at Ellis Island, or the other ports of entry, can be undertaken. Manifests from 1906 onwards have the last place of residence and name and address of nearest relations still in Slovenia. Earlier manifests can be frustrating, often providing only a generic place of origin such as Krain or Camiola. Another possible problem is the use of German versions for Slovenian place names. However, while the various databases are easily accessible by internet today, saving researchers fruitless hours or weeks looking though microfilms, some people are still difficult to locate. Sometimes it is because the recorded year of immigration is incorrect. In other instances, the problem is caused by either difficulty in deciphering the manifest entries because of poor writing, or simply a case of incorrect transcription due to non-familiarity with Slovenian surnames and place names. Some transcriptions have been so badly mangled by transcribers that it takes a near miracle to locate them. In the latter case one can try the “starts with” option and hope that only the last letters were incorrectly entered. Whatever the circumstances, it is always important to check the original manifest image to verify information. All you need is for one letter in a place name to be incorrect and the search becomes more complicated. Another problem can arise if the name of the place of origin is relatively common. There are any number of Gorenja vas, Srednja vas, Dolenja vas, Sela or Vrh throughout Slovenia, to name just a few common place names. Sometimes it is possible to determine which of these is the right one by checking the surname on the Slovenian telephone directory website: tis.telekom.si. If people with the same surname are still living in the original area, they will appear in the directory. In addition to providing names and addresses, the Slovenian telephone directory gives the name of the postal district to which the village or hamlet belongs. With this information it is possible to establish the correct parish to research. While this is one way of determining where your ancestor may have come from, it must not be forgotten that it is equally possible that no-one with your ancestor’s surname lives in his or her village of origin today. There is a myth that names and surnames were changed at Ellis Island by officials who did not know how to record the various foreign names. As manifests were prepared either in Europe at time of embarkation or during the voyage, this refutes this assumption. For Slovenian immigrants, a lot depends upon when they arrived in the US. If they came in the period before 1900, it is very likely that their surnames on official documents were recorded according to German orthography. Thus Meznar could be Meshnar, Zupančič could be either Zupancich or Supancic, Agnic would be Agnitsch and Sutej would be Schutej, to name just a few. Though church records from the late 1800’s were primarily recorded in Slovenian, it is still possible that the parish priest used German orthography instead. Some individuals returned to Slovenia intending to remain there, only to come back to the U.S. a few years later. In these instances it is sometimes easier to find the second immigration record. With more information provided in later records, this can be a benefit. However, if you still have not been able to locate an immigration record for your Slovenian ancestor, the next step is to check the Social Security Death Index. If they died before the SSDI was established, then you will have to try to locate their death certificate. Hopefully the person providing the information had knowledge of the place of birth and names of the parents. Another possible source of information for male ancestors who were of military age during WWI is the WWI civilian or “Draft Registration Cards 1917-8”. However, like other documents, some provide the place of birth, others give only the generic regional name. Some do not even provide that! Occasionally, if the family remained in Slovenia, the next of kin section might give the wife’s or parents’ names with place of residence. In some instances I have seen a number of people with the same names. Be sure to check the birthdates to confirm who is your ancestor. If none of these resources provide information as to the origin of your Slovenian ancestors, then other research is called for. Often people would emigrate to a place in the US where others from their village or region had already gone. Thus a look at other Slovenians living in the vicinity might provide the essential clues to locating your ancestors. While it may take more time to locate the immigration records for these individuals, online databases make this research considerably less time consuming that it used to be. It is an option that should not be overlooked if other avenues do not achieve the desired results. However, before you set out to research the available databases, ask all your relatives if they have any documentation on your ancestors, or if they know where they came from. It is quite possible that one of them has the crucial information or documentation in their possession. [Branka Lapajne, Ph.D. is author of the guidebook: Researching Your Slovenian Ancestors. Cost of the book is $20 US for addresses in North America. At present she is preparing several other Slovenian genealogy-related items for publication. She also conducts genealogical research for clients on trips to Slovenia.] Family Connected® By Gail Wallace (Branch 1) with introduction by George Plautz Seated (left to right) - Gail and Bill Wallace, standing - Paul Ailstock holding daughter Grace, Charity Ailstock holding son Jack, Matt Ailstock and from Slovenia Boštjan, Alenka, Teja and Matt. This article is the first in a new series which provides reconnection stories of families in America with their counterparts in Slovenia. Franc Zagožen, like many of his countrymen at the beginning of the 20th century, left his family behind as he escaped conscription by the Imperial Army of the Austrian Empire. Having already served a period of conscription and acknowledging the storm clouds of war that were gathering, Franc Zagožen arrived at the Port of New York on February 15,1909, having departed from Southampton, England, on the ship Saint Paul. Franc noted on his immigration record that he left his father, Franc Zagožen, back in Šmartno ob Dreti, the head of a family of ten children on a farm in Volog, about 20 miles from Ljubljana. Franc made his way to Milwaukee to begin a new life and married Theresa Stifter, another Slovenian immigrant, on June 22, 1912. A brother Jacob (Jack) arrived some time later; both brothers were tavern keepers in a city renowned for its ethnic taverns. Today Jack Zagožen’s tavern exists as Shaker’s Cigar Bar in Milwaukee. In 1924 Franc (Frank) moved his family to Sheboygan, WI. He bought a gostlina and dance hall, still known today as Standard Hall, only to die at a young age, leaving his family to run the business until 1946. Unfortunately, during the interim his family (wife Theresa with four children Frank Jr., Joseph, Theresa, and Mary) lost touch with their cousins in Slovenia. Fortunately Jack’s daughter corresponded and visited with the family in Slovenia. Frank’s grandson, Joe Zagožen, with information provided by Mary Zagožen Tulachka, made contact with the family in Slovenia in 1970 and stayed with Peter Zagožen (Frank and Jack’s brother) in Volog. Contact dwindled off due to the language barrier and the slow mail system. In 1998 Gail Wallace and her mother, Mary Zagožen Girdaukas (the only living child of Frank and Theresa Zagožen), were very surprised by the results of an internet search by Gail’s cousin, Mary Jo. The search resulted in the website of Boštjan Zagožen; the grandson of Peter. Boštjan was very much interested in communicating with the American branch of his family. A face to face meeting occurred in 2000 between Paul (Gail’s son) and Charity Ailstock, who visited with Boštjan and his family in Slovenia. As time went on, Gail, Paul, and Mary Jo continued their E-Mail correspondence with Boštjan, who to their delight had become quite fluent in English. This may have become just another story of immigrant families tracing their roots back to Slovenia; however, this story is really about the arrival of Boštjan in America with his fiance and friends and the subsequent reunion of family, all meeting in Sheboygan. Family from both branches in Sheboygan and Milwaukee turned out in the summer of 2006 at the home of Gail and Bill Wallace. Everyone was thrilled to finally meet, share pictures, and spend some time together. After the reunion, the young Slovenians continued their 4-week continental tour of the country (including a Brewers/ Cubs game). The two couples, (Boštjan and Alenka, with her brother Matt and fiance Teja) were married in Las Vegas on July 29,2006. When Gail asked why they had decided to marry in this country, Boštjan replied, “Why not?” While enroute, Boštjan e-mailed photos and observed first-hand our American patriotism. He wrote of his surprise at the many American flags displayed by ordinary citizens, and all four marveled at the beauty and vastness of the West and the excitement of Las Vegas and New York City. I Frank and Theresa Zagožen wedding in Milwaukee, 1912 The Path Taken.. •Dopoljena pot Pavla (Matko) and Alojzij Lukančič by Mary Lou Voelk Pavla (Paula) Matko was born on January 22, 1911 in Čolnišče, Slovenia. Parents were Janez and Helena Jager Matko. Godparents were Franc and Antonija Jager. The family later settled in Trbovlje where Janez worked the coal mines of the area. The family consisted of 11 children: Marija, Ludmila, Julka, Ema, Malka, Berta, Lojzka, Rose, Franc, Pavla and Elica. Not all reached adulthood. Alojzij (Louis) Lukančič was bom on February 11, 1903 in Ljubljana. He worked on the family farm and as a sexton at the Church of St. Anthony de Padua in Velika Stranga until the day prior to leaving for America. On January 22, 1921 he set sail from Trieste on the S.S. San Giusto arriving in America on March 13, 1921. His destination was Joliet, Illinois. During his first years in America, he worked at a number of jobs, first in Kansas and later in the coal mines of southern Illinois. In 1923 he returned to Joliet and began working in the steel mill. Louis was issued his Certificate of Naturalization on February 28, 1927. On April 3, 1928, he was issued a U.S. passport. Alojzij was planning a return trip to Slovenia in search of a bride. The Courtship: At the age of twenty-five, Louis Lukančič returned to Slovenia carrying a letter of introduction from Emma Matko Planinšek, who also lived in Joliet. Through an exchange of letters to and from Trbovlje, arrangements had been made and he arrived at the Matko home with gifts for the Matko daughters. The youngest daughter, 17-year-old Pavla, charmed Louis and he asked for her hand in marriage. While her father thought her too young to marry, her mother argued that America was the land of opportunity. Janez Matko gave his blessings, knowing he would never see his daughter again. Janez was suffering from a terminal illness that took his life in 1934. On August 27, 1928 Pavla Matko was married to Alojzij Lukančič in the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation in Ljubljana. Witnesses were Pavel Planinšek and Ivan Grame. Alojzij and Pavla spent their honeymoon at Tivoli Park and Lake Bled, visiting the island church famous for its wishing bell. Pavla later learned that Alojzij had made a wish that they be blessed with many children. After a short honeymoon, Louis returned to America to earn passage money for her trip seven months later and to await the arrival of his bride. Paula’s Journey: With her new husband back in America, Pavla began the process of acquiring the necessary papers for her journey to America. She now was with child. The following information shows the efforts of Pavla to obtain a Passport and Visa for her voyage. November 22,1928; Obtain copy of marriage record from Trbovlje November 25, 1928; Obtain copy of birth-baptism record in St. Lambert December 20,1928; Obtain stamp in Belgrade January 14, 1929; Obtain stamp in Lasko March 13, 1929; Obtain Visa in Zagreb March 16, 1929; Obtain approval in Ljubljana On March 20, 1929, Pavla set sail from LeHavre aboard the He de France. She suffered from sea sickness and could eat only endive salad on the trip. The following information was taken from the Manifest of Alien Passengers by the United States Immigration Officer at the Port of New York. “#7 LUKANČIČ, Pavla, a married female housekeeper age 18 who can read and write Croatian, of Yugoslavian nationality. She was born in Colnisce, Slovenia. Mother, Mrs. Helena Matko, Loke 254, Trbovlje, Passage paid by husband Louis, has ticket and $60. ” Six days later, on March 26, 1929, Pavla Matko Lukančič arrived in New York; she arrived in America with great Louis and Paula Lukančič, August 27, 1928 recognized that food was a big part of heritage. And what a marvelous cook she was! The poor who came to her door were warmly welcomed and given a warm meal. Her , favorite charities were Trinity School for special needs children and the Morning Star Mission for the homeless. Ma was also a natural healer! Tea from horsetail plants cured kidney problems. Poultices of cottage cheese were applied to inflamed areas. An earache called for warm oil. Chewing willow leaves relieved headaches. She was justifiably proud that her son Louis and her daughters Mildred and Maryann entered the medical field. And for the children, there were expectations! They were expected to study hard and hold jobs. The boys delivered papers, worked on truck farms and stocked grocery store shelves. The girls baby-sat, and worked at the local ice cream parlor. Paula was their role model. She read books, 654 Broadway, circa 1939 expectations even though the Immigration Officer interviewing her on board the lie de France wrote: “abdominal tumor” even though her final destination was “Kurja Vas” or “Chicken Village” in Joliet Illinois even though she arrived on Good Friday. Louis and Paula settled, for a short time, on Bluff Street in a neighborhood called “Kurja Vas”, yes, “Chicken Village”. They became members of St. Joseph Slovenian Church. Louis worked at the steel mill, and Paula took on her responsibilities of starting a household. The next move was next door to Paula’s sister Emma Planinšek on Elizabeth Street. At the age of 18, Paula delivered their first child Lillian. In the next several years there was a series of moves. Helen (Bobby) and Emma were born on Marble Street. Louis was born on Briggs Street. Life on Broadway Street: In 1936, Louis and Paula found a home on Broadway Street with a “roof that didn’t leak”. There was a large yard for the children and room for Paula to plant her flowers and vegetable garden. Louis had secured a loan of $2,000 from a well-to-do Slovenian couple, Mr. and Mrs. Mahkovec. His word and a handshake were their only contract. The children have memories of certain Saturday mornings when Louis would shave, don a white shirt and tie, put on his only suit and deliver five, new, crisp twenty-dollar bills to the Mahkovec home. In less than four years, Louis and Paula repaid the loan in full plus interest, all on a one-income workingman’s salary and with the efficiency of a wife’s management. In the coming years, they also managed to pay the tuition for all nine children to attend St. Joseph Grade School where they were grounded in the Catholic Faith and received a solid education. John and Angela (Patty) were bom at 654 Broadway St. The youngest three, Mildred (Mickey), James (Butch) and Maryann were born at St. Joseph Hospital, several blocks south on Broadway Street. Over the years, a lot of living went on in the house on Broadway Street. Ma budgeted wisely; her work was never done. The inside work of cooking, baking, laundering and sewing were daily chores. Outside, her garden provided for their table year round. Shelves held bottles of catsup and jars of tomatoes, beans, mushrooms, pickles, relishes and preserves. And of course there were her flowers. Ma had a “peasant’s wisdom” bom from hardships and living only with necessities. She would often say, “Tako gre na svet” (So it goes on earth). Her son Jim testified, “I never had a bad meal in that house!” Homemade noodles and dumplings were their comfort foods. On becoming adults, the girls used recipes from the Slovenian Women’s Union of America cookbook, Women’s Glorv-The Kitchen. Ma newspapers and listened to the radio so she could leam the English language. She and the Lukančič children made good use of the Joliet Public Library. At garage sales she purchased National Geographic Magazines to add to the family’s store of knowledge. Paula attended night classes at Joliet Township High School, where Mary Gospodarich taught immigrants English and Civics. Mary was awed by Ma’s beautiful drawings depicting the three branches of government. In 1943 Paula became a proud American citizen. Pa’s pleasures were simple: Sunday afternoon family rides in the old Ford; picking mushrooms in Hammel Woods; playing a game of pinochle with buddies; stopping for a cold beer on the walk home from work; making smoked sausages and red wine the “old-country way”; raising lettuce and tomatoes for the family table; picnics with other Slovenian families, and enjoying polkas and Viennese waltzes. He would say, “They must play Strauss in heaven”. 1958 (left to right) seated: James, Paula, Sister Louis Paul (Helen), Louis, Lillian standing: John, Emma, Maryann, Mildred, Angela, Loins Pa continued with his job for 43 years in the noise-filled machine shop, which eventually caused a hearing loss. Yes, he received the customary gold watch from US Steel. During his time on the job he made many suggestions to the mechanics, which at times brought a monetary reward. Louis was known as being a very efficient nail machine operator. Men were always glad to be his helper as their pay reflected productivity. On April 25, 1959 he obtained a U.S. Patent for a nail and tack-making apparatus, patent #2505415. Louis and Paula were the epitome of “The American Dream”. Both knew that America would offer their children a better life. Louis had 6 years of schooling in Slovenia. Having lived through the Great Depression, he counted himself fortunate to have a steady job to support his family. His greatest pleasure was seeing their children receive their diplomas. Paula came to America as an 18-year old bride and had completed the 8 years education. But, she had a dream, “only in America”. Had Paula been born in a different time or place, a multi talented Paula Matko Lukančič could easily have been a doctor, an educator, a chef, a lawyer or an artist? Instead, she was destined to become a remarkable wife and mother, whose nine children bom in America received opportunities she never had enjoyed. Her children continue to feel her teachings: the duty of responsibility, respect for others, a strong work ethic, faith in God, and love of family and tradition. On November 19, 1964, the Immigration Service League of Chicago honored Louis and Paula Matko Lukančič with a special family distinguished award for the manner in which they raised their children. Paula Matko Lukančič delivered the following speech. Mr. Capp; Mr. Chairman; Distinguished Guests: Ladies and Gentlemen: As my husband and I have never done any public speaking, we were both apprehensive of coming before such an accomplished group of people. However, we both agreed that we must express our thanks to everyone connected with this wonderful award: so, since my husband insisted that I be the speaker of the Lukančič House this evening, I would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude. Gratitude first to the Immigration Service League; to Dr. John Mayer who nominated us for this award; to the Judges, who must have had a difficult time making their decision; and, last but not least, we are most grateful to God for our fine children and for the opportunity to rear them in the greatest country in the world. One of the newspapers stated that my husband and I have given a gift to America. We want to believe that we have given something to America, because America has given so much to us. We realize that our children could not have accomplished what they have in any other country in the world. For us, America’spromise has come true. We humbly thank God daily for America. Louis Lukančič died of multiple myeloma in 1966, just four months after seeing his youngest daughter Maryann receive her nursing diploma. Paula Matko Lukančič died in 1980 and rests beside her beloved husband in St. Joseph Cemetery in Joliet where hundreds of Slovenian immigrants and their family members are buried. The family philosophy: always give back and share your blessings and good fortune. Of their nine children, Helen, Angela and John became teachers. Lillian worked in medical records at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Joliet and Emma was a legislative aide. James was an officer with the Joliet police department. Louis became a family doctor and Mildred a radiologist at St. Margaret Hospital in Spring Valley, Illinois. All are enjoying retirement. Maryann is a registered nurse in the Emergency Room of Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet. Today the Lukančič siblings and their spouses total 14. There were 24 grandchildren and there are now 38 great-grandchildren. A family reunion is held every first Sunday in August with an 11:30 a.m. Memorial Mass followed by food and fellowship in the Church Hall. The Lukančič Legacy: Each day hundreds of motorists on Normantown Road in Romeoville pass by the name Lukančič. On September 7, 2006, in Romeoville, Illinois, a new junior high building was dedicated in honor of Louis and Paula’s son John, who had served the school district for 34 years as a teacher and as Assistant Superintendent of Personnel. The school board announced that the school would be named the John Lukančič Middle School. When interviewed by the Joliet Herald News. John said, “1 kind of look at it as having my parents’ name on that building. My folks came from what is now the country of Slovenia. The times were tough. My A Bit of Fashion History: The Roaring Twenties Sporting a cloche hat, and the dove grey “boyish” look on her wedding photo, Pavla Matko Lukančič was a class act. She arrived in America in 1929 during a period of unprecedented prosperity. In America, homes were now lit by electricity, people made more money than ever before. Modem appliances were now available. The sale of 30 million automobiles and untold tickets to the movie theaters contributed to this fast-living world. During the Great War of 1914-1918, fashion had been at a standstill. It was a time of drab, functional clothing and uniforms. Youth were at a premium as many had been killed in the war. The young men who survived were made old by the horrors of the war. Woman nurses had seen horrific injuries and suffering. The motto now, “life is short, enjoy it to the fullest” Class barriers were now broken down. The war had given the ordinary female choices of employment rather than only domestic work. Female clothes became simplified. They were looser, waists disappeared, the bust was suppressed, and shoulders became broader. Womanly curves were eliminated, the corset was discarded and women’s legs could be seen. Such simple clothing did not require a dressmaker that once only the rich could afford. These simple lines could be mass-produced and were affordable to all. dad came with little more than his name, and now his name is going to be on a school building”. The family maintains the Louis and Paula Lukančič Scholarship Fund in honor of their parents at the Joliet Junior College. They plant flowers annually at the graves of their parents. Blessed candles are lit on All Saint’s night, as is the Slovenian custom. A visit to Lake Bled and the island church can be called a family pilgrimage. Numerous family members have visited the island church where the presence Louis and Paula continues to be felt. And now it is Angela who bakes the potica and strudel for family reunions and special celebrations. “Ma would be so proud!” An oil painting of Lake Bled, painted by Helen Lukancic-Valerugo hangs in the social hall of St. Joseph’s Slovenian Church. For all groups that meet in the hall, they only need to look up; such is the reminder of their Slovenian heritage. “Tako gre na svet ” (So it goes on earth) The Lukančič family history and photographs were supplied by Angela Zaida with commentary by Helen Valerugo. Both daughters are members of SWUA. Lukančič family photos and briefs can be viewed at the Slovenian Heritage Museum in Joliet. They are part of the Slovenian Family History Project prepared by Nancy Henkel. This was the time of the “bobbed” hair. It was first introduced after WWI when society dancer Irene Castle stunned New York by appearing on a show with bobbed hair. The impact was enormous. Bobbed hair was idyllic for the iconic hat that had come into fashion circa 1908.The style of the cloche gave definition to the face, the eyes and the lips. To wear one correctly the hat was pulled over the eyes, making the wearer have to lift the chin, while snootily peering down one’s nose as they listened or spoke. (Hence the phrase, “Looking Down One’s Nose”) The tall shape added inches to the wearer, giving an appearance of haughtiness. By the 20’s, hair was cropped so short, the new closer fitting cloche shape made a statement that said “new woman”. With focus on the face, the cosmetics industry flourished. It became fashionable to perform the rite of powdering one’s nose in public, while sporting a compact and lipstick tube rather than scurrying off to the lady’s room. Oxblood lipstick was used lavishly. Such was life in America. Seven months after her arrival, Pavla Matko Lukančič would experience the beginning of the Great Depression. “ Tako gre na svet” (So it goes on earth) Heritage News Bits and Pieces of Heritage Newly Acquired Family History and Genealogy Yearbook It is most pleasing that people are recognizing the Slovenian Heritage Museum and Library as a repository for Slovenian histoiy in America. Edward Shustersich of New York has presented the museum/library with a family history. The research is bound in two volumes and is a model for any person contemplating a family study. The volumes include family members, surnames, photos, personal letters, important dates, documents and page after page of the family tree. Translations from German, Slovenian and Latin are also included. Edward is a member of the Slovenian Genealogy Society. The Slovenian Heritage Museum and Library is indebted to Edward for considering our museum and library. You are encouraged to stop by the museum/library to view these magnificent volumes. Pat Pate, a member of the Slovenian Genealogy Society, presented the museum/library with a spreadsheet indexing of the Ameriški Družinski Koledar*, volumes 1915-1950. The museum has also acquired the issues of koledars. The “fields” include names, businesses, titles of short plays, poetry and fiction, political events and movements and contemporary art. All are in alphabetical order, and include the year, the issue and the page number where each field can be located. Again, it is with gratitude that we accept this project for our library archives. *A koledar is a Slovenian almanac or a yearbook. Each yearly publication includes the months of that particular year, dates of holy days and Saints’ Days (if it is a Catholic publication) and holidays. National and religious rituals, customs and traditions usually predominate the contents. Because the koledar is used for an entire year, the illustrations tend to be very beautiful. Koledars are all but rare if not obsolete today. Archives Dedicated volunteers continue to plug away at our tremendous endeavor, the scanning of our documents. Carole Terlep, Carol Novak, Carol Ryba, Vicki Hodgman and Theresa Bums can be thanked for their dedication. As of this date, the years 1928-1934 have been scanned for a total of 1185 documents for 156 deceased persons, George Plautz is indexing the document surnames and on-line internet storage arrangements have been made for safety and accessibility. Our goals for 2007: • The total number of persons and/or files scanned will meet or surpass the 2006 total. • My concern is the furniture; an old wooden desk and a chair rescued from some far off comer of the building. Until one has sat at a computer for hours, ergonomics means little. Computer ergonomics is concerned about, the height of the computer and work surface, the viewing angle, the angle of the head, wrist, knees, elbows and hips, the distance to the screen, the quality of back support. Scanning will go on for a number of years and having a suitable work station would not only make for body comfort, but it would speed up the scanning. So here is another goal for 2007 • Acquisition/donation of appropriate ergonomic furniture If anyone can help us with this furniture dilemma or scanning, PLEASE do come forward. You are needed! Rita Starich, has volunteered her computer talents for the start up of a new project, indexing Zarja. Every Zarja published is stored at the museum. However, to allow for research in this historical, iconic magazine, we must have it indexed. Yes, EVERY magazine! It can be done! Reading ability is all you need to volunteer for this project. YOU ARE NEEDED! Call: Mary Lou Voelk 251.968.4363 Documents Scanned Mary Prijatel Br. 25 DOD: 1/03/1930 Barbara Tomasich Br. 20 DOD: 1/03/1931 Christine Mohorčič Br. 25 DOD: 1/05/1931 Kristina Lousin Br. 13 DOD: 3/08/1931 Anna Ciraj Br. 12 DOD: 4/16/1931 Agnes Gregorc Br. 14 DOD: 5/04/1931 Mary Papesh Br. 20 DOD: 5/11/1931 Frances Kern Br. 32 DOD: 5/14/1931 Mary Agnich Br. 23 DOD: 5/17/1931 Agnes Sebat Br. 24 DOD: 7/05/1931 Agnes Raski Br. 9 DOD: 7/15/1931 Fanny Valovsek Br. 12 DOD: 7/15/1931 Ursula Leskovec Br. 20 DOD: 8/11/1931 Mary Gazvoda Br. 28 DOD: 8/17/1931 Anna Skubic Br. 23 DOD: 8/28/1931 Correction: Mary Smilanovich Br. 16 DOD: 1/25/1929 A KOZOLEC “hay rack” For Your Garden? It appears our readers noticed the “kozolec” in the garden of Frances Yenko Chilcoat, 3rd place winner in the garden contest. (See Sept/Oct 2006 photo) Many requested the ‘building plans” for the kozolec. While Frances realized her garden would lose the honor of being “the only existing kozolec within the U.S.A.” she readily came up with an idea. Sell the plans to our members, with moneys going to the Slovenian Heritage Museum and Library! Frances has one request. In respect for the zest and ingenuity of her husband Aaron in planning and building the kozolec; for the time and expertise to redraw the plans by their neighbor Dennis Brahney; for the respect of donating to the museum library; she asks that you not copy/duplicate the plan from your neighbor/friend/relative, but do donate generously to Slovenian Museum/Library cause. Telephone: ___________________________ E-Mail: Please include a self addressed, stamped envelope. To purchase, mail check to Slovenian Heritage Museum 431 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432 !~I AM REQUESTING A BUILDING PLAN FOR THE KOZOLEC: Name: Street: Donation: $10.00 i_________________________________________ Accidental Death and Dismemberment Policy To the Readers and Friends of Slovenia from the Embassy of Slovenia! Embassy of Slovenia is inviting you, your family members or anybody with interests in Slovenia, to sign up for the weekly electronic Newsletter and join the growing community of our readers. Each week the Embassy sends out news on Slovenian diplomacy in Washington, announcements of special events, and invitations to current cultural Slovenia-based events, such as concerts, film-screenings, etc. In the Newsletter we are also informing the American - Slovenian community of consular matters and any legal changes that might be of relevance for them. If you would like to enjoy our newly designed and always interesting newsletter, please write to us at: vwa@gov.si. - - ^ - - - BECOME A MEMBER KS K I WITH ANEW _______________________ INSURANCE PLAN AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOUC UNION FROM I^SIKJ! ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT PLAN Available from ages 20 to 65 (coverage expires at age 70) Minimum Amount Available $25,000 - Maximum Available $100,000 $30 minimum per mode premium - $1.00 per thousand in PA $1.20 per thousand in CA, CO, CT, IL, IN, KS, Ml, MN, MT, OH, DC, Wl Call your local sales agent or the Home Office at 1-800-843-5755 www.kskjlife.com Branch Reports Poročila Podružnic BRANCH 1 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin Our 80th Anniversary celebration began with the youngest members, attired in native Slovenian costumes, leading a procession into SS. Cyril and Methodius Church for the 9 a.m. Mass, celebrated by Fr. Glenn Powers, our Spiritual Director. Following was a Slovenian brunch in Fr. Cheme Hall - with poticas, flancati and apple strudels aplenty! Many thanks to the bakers. We also had kranski, ham and Slovenian potato salad. We were pleased to host the attendance of National and State Officers and members of Branches 12 and 43. A short program, emceed by V.P. Mary Jo Grabner followed brunch. Aggie Gruenke, President, welcomed all to the celebration. Josephine Janezic, State President, Betty Ann Kolesari, National Vice-President and Denise Bartlett, 2nd National Auditor, gave speeches. The keynote speaker was our own Fr. Glenn, who gave a very inspirational talk. The program ended with a wonderful selection of music by Jim and Kathy Gorton. Kathy is the granddaughter of Marie Prisland and always a welcome addition to our celebrations. Space does not allow writing of all the wonderful events of the day. Thank you to all of our members, too numerous to mention by name, who contributed to make this a memorable day. The raffle baskets were beautiful, as were the Slovenian dolls in their display. Mention must be made of the beautifully decorated sheet cakes made by Mary Ann Schellinger. Special thanks to the SSCM Men’s Club and members! Frances Krolnik, age 92, a member for 62 years, passed away on 12-31-06. She was always a joy to visit throughout the latest years of her life. Our officers visited our homebound and assisted living members during the holiday season. It’s helpful if we are Jim and Katie Gorton, Katie is wearing her grandmother, Marie Prisland s outfit. Children of Branch 1 notified of any members recently moved to assisted living or nursing homes. We planned an eventful year, so make note of announcements in the SSCM church bulletins. Events include a bus trip in spring to visit the Slovenian Heritage Museum in Joliet. This is an opportunity to see first hand what our Slovenian Heritage and Culture means to us. Blessings, Angie Fritz BRANCH 2 - Chicago, Illinois It has been a long year as we were in the midst of celebrating our 80th year. We tried to bring forth all things from the past for all our deceased members who had worked so hard to accomplish so much with so little. As a tribute to our founders let us continue our efforts to increase our membership and the preservation of our heritage. Our Penny Social theme in November was “Shop at Sacks” and you had to be there to see how the committee carried the theme through. We had a packed hall and it helped finance our Junior Christmas Party. Even though we had a major snowstorm earlier, come Saturday, doors opened and 50 eager young juniors were there to play and wait for Santa. They made and painted ornaments to hang on their Christmas tree, which was located near the manager of our Blessed Baby Jesus. We found out just how talented these children are when they performed without prompting, singing Christmas songs. After refreshments were served, Santa came and gave gifts, which brought smiles and laughter to the children. Our adults at the Crystal Sky Banquet Hall for our Christmas dinner also had a fun time. The place looked very festive with red carnations and poinsettias everywhere. And Paul Dudasik entertained us with nice music. Fran Morison read a touching prayer. Jane Duol gave a toast while we sipped Slovenian Wine. The food was delicious. Fr. Blase joined us. JoAnne Ferraro was our oldest member (93). Debbie Zefran Jerry arrived like Santa bearing gifts for everyone. We enjoyed each other’s company and ended the day by singing “Silent Night” in Slovenian and in English. It brought tears because there are always many sad and happy memories. Two of our members traveled to exciting places in 2006. Marie Ovnik to Austria, Germany and Slovenia. Virginia and Bob Guertin went on an African Safari where they tented in jungles, rode elephants and saw lots of wildlife. Sounds great! We are sorry to report of the loss of the following members: Eugenia Jean Hraster, Marie Rom, Fran Rebout, Angie Bennedict and Beverly Brenik. We will miss them all and our branch will be lost without them. Condolences to Ann Hozzian and family on the loss of her husband John and to Mamie Fabian on the loss of her daughter Arlene. Please remember them in your prayers. Dates to Remember: March 18th- St. Joseph Table and St. Patrick Celebration - April 15th- Arrival of spring -May 20th - Member of the Year Celebration. Keep our soldiers in your prayers for their safety. HAPPY EASTER TO EVERYONE! Love, Daisy BRANCH 3 - Pueblo, Colorado “Beautiful and tiny six pointed snowflakes... no two alike, falling from the sky and uniting to form a blanket ofsnow covering our fields and mountains. Soft snow that will bring spring water. ” Members of SWUA are like those sparkling crystals -each different, but coming together for special endeavors. We are dedicated to the education of our youth. With education on the agenda, in lieu of a gift exchange at the annual Christmas Luncheon, the following persons contributed a monetary amount, totaling $305.00, earmarked for the National Scholarship Fund. Contributors to SWU Scholarship Fund, $25 - Josephine Perko, $20 -Andrea DeGarbo, Francesca and Gianna, Anna Knific, $ 10 -Agnes Glavich, Bernadette Krašovec, Dorothy Zakrasek, Eileen Kaplan, Eileen Perez, Elsie Medonich, Florence Snider, Frances Ondovchik, Helen Perse, Josephine Krasovic, Katherine Chrisman, Katherine Kochevar, Kathleen Starcevich, Lillian Galich, Margaret Cullen, Mary (Mitzi) Drobnick, Mary Gersick, Mildred Stofac, Pauline Pauchick, Rose Zupančič and Stephanie Barnett Bernice Krašovec BRANCH 10-Cleveland, Ohio Hi Ladies, we had our Christmas party on January 30, 2007, at Recher Hall, in Euclid, Ohio. We had a great time. Many people came out even with the bad weather. There was good food and door prizes for all that attended. The cook Sophie Mazie made excellent wedding soup, roast chickcn, and breaded pork chops. It was quite filling. Please call me it you are interested in attending the convention of 2007; Please phone me, Stephanie Segulin (216)-451-8176. I wish all the members a Happy St. Patrick’s Day and a Blessed Easter. I also give a prayer to all the military family members fighting for our country in Iraq. Stay safe and warm! Stephanie Segulin Happy 2007 to all of the SWUA readers and may this New Year bring you nothing but Good Health, Good Fortune and Happiness. First, Kudos to the Editors for the Memorable Issue of the 80th Anniversary Zarja magazine. Not only is it a treasure to keep, but information unbeknown to many members. It is obvious that your efforts were not in vain. Since the month of December was devoted mostly to Christmas luncheons and parties, meetings were set aside until January and in our case, to February, because of the normally inclement weather but this year has certainly been unusual. We celebrated Christmas on December 7th and because diversity is the spice of life, this year as each year, we try a different restaurant and this year we were pleased with our choice. I want to thank Elaine Oertel and Lillian Hartmann for donating their time and talents to make this celebration a great success. At our first meeting of 2007 we will discuss our 80th Anniversary. Our officers for 2007 are Honorary President - Stavia Dobersek, President - Nell Zietlow, Vice President - Rose Luebke, Recording Secretary - Virginia Strukel, Treasurer - Fran Remshak, Auditors - A1 Jelinek and Fannie Smole. With this slate of officers and our cooperating members, we should have a very good 2007. So until next issue, here’s hoping that everything is just right in your little corner of the world. Stavia Dobersek and Fran Remshak BRANCH 13 - San Francisco, California We held the election of 2007 Officers at our December meeting. The results are as follows: President - Louise Petrusich, Vice President - Doreen Sustarich, Secretary -Moreen Sustarich, Recording Secretary - Barbara Chiodo, Treasurer - Michele Twers, Auditors - Virginia Sustarich and Ann Sustarich, Recorder - Barbara Chiodo. We also shared a lovely Christmas Luncheon on that day. Our love, best wishes and prayers are with President Louise Petrusich, who fell down on Thanksgiving and broke several bones in her neck. She is home now, but still has a “halo” brace on her neck. We are all hoping she will be able to make it to our March meeting. We have a new member, Suzanne Widmar. We welcome you and hope you will be able to join us on the first Thursday of each month at noon at the Slovenian Hall. We all wish a Happy Birthday in March to Mary Bertrand, Sandra Farrell, Dorothy Simenic Flynn, Gail Coppinger Hilton, Jožica Jakša Plut, Dora Simenc and Jennifer Kurnick Yager and in April to Dorothy Govednik Cummings, La Verne Fuildord, Ina Henderson and Kathleen Madronich Trombetta. I am very proud to join in writing for Zarja. My mother Frances Chiodo did it for many, many years. Barbara Chiodo Members and friends met for our annual Christmas Party the first Tuesday of December. The lower hall of the Slovenian Society Home was filled with celebrants who feasted on a delicious Slovenian dinner prepared and served by Sophie Mazi and her staff. As usual we had our raffle where wrapped gifts are donated and raffle tickets are sold. I was the fortunate one to win a lovely ruffled white apron handmade by one of our members who remained anonymous. It’s a work of art that I will be afraid to use for fear of spotting it. Slovenian handwork is something to be cherished as it is becoming a lost art. The raffles that we have at our two dinners are our only fundraisers for the year and, thank God, they are always very successful. The donated gifts from our generous members get nicer and nicer each time, and more and more people buy tickets. We will be having our second annual event, our Mother’s Day Dinner, the first Tuesday of May, May 1st, at the Slovenian Society Home, where we will be honoring all our mothers. Our dinner will again feature a delicious Slovenian meal prepared by Sophie Mazi. You do not find too many cooks today who are able to prepare the traditional Slovenian meal starting with liver dumpling soup and ending with strudel. We invite you to attend. Many, many thanks go to Stana Grill who takes all the reservations and arranges the seating for about 80 people at these events. And, we have the best, most responsible members in the world. No money is taken beforehand and all fees are paid at the door. Everyone who says they are coming show up and we are never burdened with extra dinners. I don’t know of another group where you don’t have to worry about people saying they are coming and don’t show up. The SWU A convention is this year and information is in this issue. If you are interested, please call Diane Varney. See you at our Mother’s Day dinner! Patricia A. Budzilek BRANCH 16-South Chicago, Illinois I would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and hope that the year is very productive for the SWUA. There has not been an article in the Zarja for quite a few months, because we lost our reporter Sylvia Spretnjak. It was a surprise to all of us, because we did not know she was ill. Sylvia passed away on August 11, 2006 after a very short illness. A Mass of Christian Burial was said at Sacred Heart Church; all our members were present to sing her requested Hymn, Angelsko Cesenje. She was laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery. May her soul rest in peace. Sylvia was a very active member in our Lodge, taking on all different positions; her latest position being Treasurer and also being voted as “Member of the Year - 2006”. She traveled with the SWUA Heritage Tour to Slovenia in 2001 and enjoyed it veiy much. She will be sorely missed by all. Our November meeting was very productive. Our present Officers accepted their positions for next year, President -MaryTherese Ehnat, Vice President - Mary Jane Strus, Secretary - Gladys Buck, Recording Secretary - Veda Kumse, our newly elected Treasurer - Julia Pastor and Fran Novak - Auditor. We’re looking forward to a good year. Our Christmas Party was held on Thursday, December 7th at the Jovial Club. Gen Marco was in charge of the party and did an excellent job. The attendance was very good. Everyone joined in on our Christmas Sing-a-long. A good time was had by all. Some sad news to report, in November we lost our member Mary Ann Skibbie. While she wasn’t an active member she did participate in some of our conventions. At times she joined Gladys and Veda and wore her National dress. We express our condolences to her family. Our member Fran Zupancic’s son Paul passed away after a battle with cancer; we attended a Memorial Mass for him at St. George. Our sympathy is extended to Fran and her family. Dorothy Rossi BRANCH 20 - Joliet, Illinois I hope you all had a blessed and healthy Christmas Season. As a new reporter for the Zarja magazine in the up and coming year, I will try to do my best to keep all of our members informed. Congratulations are due to the following members on their accomplishments: Joe Babich on being recently elected to BRANCH 20, JOLIET, ILLINOIS, OFFERS THE FOLLOWING SCHOLARSHIPS TO ITS MEMBERS: Adult Continuing Education Scholarship to a member 21 years of age or over who is pursuing advanced or continuing education. High School Scholarship to a graduating eighth grader who has been accepted to attend one of the Catholic high schools and is enrolled for the fall 2007 semester. High School Scholarship to a current high school student who wishes to continue in a Catholic high school or is planning to transfer from a public high school to a Catholic high school. Scholastic ability must be shown as well as an evaluation of the applicant’s character and code of behavior. For detailed eligibility information and application forms, contact: Branch 20 Scholarship Program Theresa Burns 1109 Plaza Drive Joliet, IL 60435-3844 Phone: (815) 725-5319 Applications must be received prior to April 15, 2007 the Will County Board. Eric and Cortland Pucel on the birth of their daughter, Teague Grace Pucel born on 9/5/ 06, and is the youngest member of Branch 20. Also to Teague’s great grandmother Millie Pucel. Dave and Sue Bartholme on the birth on their twin grandsons! Eric and Devon Bartholme born on 7/31/06. Dorothy and John Mahan on the celebration of their 50th Wedding Anniversary. John Lukančič, who retired on June 30th, 1994 from the Valley View School District. The John Lukančič Middle School was named in this honor. Congratulations John! The installation of new officers was held on Sunday January 21st at St. Joseph Park. Spiritual Advisor Father Tom Paul honored us by doing the installation of officers. The newly installed officers provided a wonderful buffet dinner. The following officers were installed for 2007: Char Kobe - President, Agnes Dobczyk - Vice-President, Vicki Hodgman - Secretary, Jean Herbst - Treasurer, Mary Kay Demick, Bernice Nemanich and Josephine Lustik as Auditors. And finally, Barbara DeLaney as the reporter for the Zarja magazine. Also discussed at the meeting was Branch 20’s up and coming 80"' Anniversary Celebration in 2008. We would love to see more members to help us celebrate! Joan Lesnik of Lockport, IL was not present to except the accumulative door prize at the meeting. Also, April 20,h (Friday) and April 21st (Saturday) will be our annual rummage sale held at St. Joseph Park. Your donations of items that are slightly used, or no longer needed would be greatly appreciated. Any questions please contact Jonita Ruth at (815) 726-6990. The March of Dimes 3 mile Walk-A-Thon will be held on the 1st Sunday in May at the Knights of Columbus located on Infantry Dr. in Joliet. Come join Branch 20 walkers for healthier babies. Contact Jonita Ruth if you are interested in participating at (815) 726-6990. The National Convention elected delegates are Char Kobe, Jean Herbst and Grace Doerk. and their alternates are Theresa Bums, Agnes Dobczyk and Pat Figurowski. Many thanks to Dennis Cohil for his generous donation to the scholarship fund for Branch 20. Our young members will truly benefit from his generosity. Our condolences to the following members who have lost their loved ones: Marlene Ancel (sister-in-law), Gloria Gobel (mother), Terri Crotty (brother), Kathy Kramer (brother), Joann Legerski (husband), Don Legerski (father), Marge Grayhack (husband), Bernice Ramsak (husband) and Margaret Keca (granddaughter). The following were members of S WU A who have passed away this year. We extend our condolences and our prayers to their families as well. Anna M. Kobe (98 yrs), Ann M. Savol (92 yrs), Frances Kimak (89 yrs) and Marla Mae Allen (65 yrs). If any members have any special events taking place in their lives, please feel free to get in contact with me at: delanevprd@sbcglobal.net. That’s all for now! Have a Happy and Healthy 2007! Barbara DeLaney Branch 24 - LaSalle, Illinois Dober Dan! It may be the middle of winter but the Illinois Valley is thinking summer, especially June, when we host the National Convention and 80th Anniversary celebration of the SWUA at the Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, IL. Recently I had the pleasure of enjoying lunch at the Lodge along with three other ladies, one of whom is a fellow branch member, Frances Puetz, and who is 92 years young and quite remarkable! Much of our conversation that day was about the Slovenian immigrants who migrated to LaSalle many years ago. It was these same people who would pack up their lunches on a beautiful Sunday afternoon (back when Sundays were a day of rest) and take their families out to “The Rock” to spend the day hiking, picnicking, playing ball, fishing and just relaxing. As I took a stroll through the Lodge my mind was racing ahead to June and I could just imagine the hustle and bustle that will be going on. I thought of the Veranda filed with singing, good Illinois Valley food and happy voices -members, delegates and guests taking in the breathtaking view of the valley below. It is a majestic place in the middle of great natural beauty. It promises to be a most enjoyable experience and will leave warm and lasting memories for all who will attend. It seems not so long ago our branch enjoyed a lovely Christmas party at Bartley’s Supper Club in LaSalle, hosted by Linda Struna and Mary Mecum. Shortly before Christmas I had the opportunity, along with Helen Millman and her sister, Frances, to visit Antonia Hoefferle, who resides at St. Joseph Nursing Home in Lacon, Illinois, and who celebrated her 99th birthday on December 20. She was very happy to see us and is doing quite well for her age. We are keeping Wendy Lauer, daughter of Janice Mueller, in our thoughts and prayers as she is having some health problems. She is the wife of Scott and the mommy to Nicholas and we wish her well. Keep focused on June and plan to make your reservations early. We are anxious to welcome any and all who attend the convention and will be proud to show you the Illinois Valley! Until next time, may your hearts be filled with peace and love. Loretta Story BRANCH 35-Aurora, Minnesota Sunday, January 14, 2007 was our first meeting held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church Hall. Eleven members were in attendance. Prayers were said and we remembered our sick, deceased and shut- in members. We worked on the suggested amendments to the articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. There are many questions, which we need to obtain answers for and will continue work on the rest of the suggestions at our February meeting. Bernice Ceglar come up with a name for the organization. Slovenian WoMen’s Union of America was suggested although we felt no change was necessary. We plan to get together with the delegates and alternates from the other Minnesota Branches to go over and discuss all amendments. Anita Vovk was the hostess for this meeting and prizes were drawn. We reminded all members that February is Dime Auction, dues should be paid and those having children or grandchildren, must get their scholarship applications into Mary Turvey as soon as possible. Our Branch is working on honoring Our Slovenian Blessed Mother, Marija Pomagaj, with a picture to be hung in our church. We have a lot of work to do on this and will keep you informed of our progress. In May we will honor our member, Ann Mismash, as Member of the Year. Congratulations! We wish you all a Happy and Healthy New Year and God Be With You! Anita Vovk BRANCH 39 - Biwabik, Minnesota Our November and December meetings were well attended and much discussion was held about the upcoming convention and the pending by-law revisions. A notice was sent out to all the branch members to review the past Zaija’s about these issues and contact Rosemary Ribich with opinions. She will send these suggestions to the bylaws committee chairperson by March 20, 2007 for consideration. In December, a Christmas greeting letter was sent to all branch members listing our goals and events scheduled for 2007. Vida Lanari, branch secretary, did a great job with the embellishments reflecting scenes of the birth of Christ. Hvala Vida, your expertise is really appreciated. Twenty-six members met in St. John’s social hall in Biwabik on January 7th to celebrate our Christmas social and dinner. A fitting day since it was the Epiphany and the branch members seem to enjoy having the event in January when all the other Christmas festivities are over. Carol Sherek again entertained us on her button accordion during the social hour. Carol also has a new CD for sale and we encourage all to get a copy. Nice going Carol. Among the members, were three invited guests who also enjoyed their day with us. Homemade apple wine was served and a delicious stuffed pork chop dinner was catered by Melody Lane. We held a brief ritual, inducting five (5) new members. Two of the new members were out of state and unable to attend, but they were also welcomed. We then gathered to play our dice game. Everyone enjoys trying to accumulate the many wrapped gifts and winning them from each other. What a delightful way to begin 2007. Our branch members gathered together on January 2,2007 to attend the funeral of our beloved sister and seventy-eight (78) year charter member, Jennie Ahlin. The S WU A branch banner was placed on the altar and our President, Rosemary Ribich, read a tribute to Jennie. May you rest in peace, Jennie, you will be missed. Hope to see our many sisters in Utica, IL in June. Zbogom, Rosemary (Sertich) Ribich rribich@lcp2.net Spomladne pozdrave (Greetings of Spring) members. Our branch Christmas party at Sterle’s Country House is now history and was well represented by the Kastelic clan. Dr. Joe and wife Kathy, Bob with son and grandson visiting from Florida and Dr. Vlado Russ and wife Thea. Our Slovenian community lost a popular citizen with the passing of Florence Mirtel of Branch 101. She was very active with the Slovenian National Home of Newburgh having hosted their highly successful Wine and Cheese Festivals. Shortly after her demise, her sister, Dorothy Stark, also succumbed to a lengthy illness. Louis Gregorič, brother of our member, Rose Meljac, also passed away around the holidays as did Arlene Kasarda Legan’s father. We extend our deepest sympathy to all the families. May their loved ones rest in heavenly peace. As we go to press, plans for our February 10th meeting are in full swing with the National Convention the main topic of discussion. Handouts and an open discussion will enable the assembly to make an informed decision regarding any necessary revisions to the SWUA bylaws and regulations. Finalizing the selection of our delegate and promoting attendance by members will be paramount. More on this next time. We will again hold our popular Easter “Bakeless” Bake Sale and ask that you be as generous as possible. We have been so blessed with really loyal and dedicated members but our “graying” membership is noticeably shrinking and the time is now for the “tough to get going”. Get well wishes to any ailing members. Happy St. Joseph’s and St. Patrick’s Day and have a pleasant Easter holiday with your loved ones. Adijo, Lil Sadowski 216-398-4367 LRSadow@aol.com BRANCH 47 - Garfield Heights, Ohio Our next meeting is March 11th, 2007 at the Maple Hts. Library at 1.00 p.m. We will have more information about the upcoming 80lh Celebration of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America and our 25"’ National Convention. Everything is looking good for this big event. We as a group want to explore and embrace our Heritage and take great pride in what has been accomplished since the inception of SWUA. 1 am really looking forward to participating in this great event and hope everyone can come and witness this event also. Our next meeting will be May 5lh, 2007. That will be a Saturday. Please plan on attending this meeting. Our Member of the Year will be highlighted. Birthday wishes to all our March and April members. Any questions call Elsie Spellacy at 330-699-0031 or e-mail me at webblekatt@hotmail.com. Katherine Wallace Remember to shop at SWUA Heritage Museum heritage. Jean’s daughter, Carol Dickenson and granddaughter, Jennifer Mann are also proud members. Ed Arhar (Anne’s husband), who had back surgery a year ago and several serious setbacks is now recuperating at home. Ed is a great music fan and has never deliberately missed a Slovenian choral concert. So, on New Year’s Day, 18 members of the St. Vitus choir surprised Ed at home with a personal Christmas concert amidst laughter and toasts to good health. Ed expressed his gratitude to John Srsen, director and to the entire choir. What a wonderful gift to Ed and Anne! Our current meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Euclid Public Library at 1 p.m. Be sure to attend our next regular meeting on Wednesday March 21st to discuss the upcoming national convention (on June 21 to 24,2007 in Utica Illinois). This year’s convention is one you won’t want to miss! Anne Tomsick ciavnow@vahoo.com 216.531.2745 BRANCH 54 - Warren, Ohio Our President, Rosemary Toth welcomed members and guests to a spectacular Christmas party and grand celebration of our 75th Anniversary of Branch 50 on December 3,2006. She introduced and complimented our new secretary, Josephine Wutchiett, and also recognized Evelyn Pipoly, our interim secretary during the past year. We all appreciate and thank Evelyn who volunteered as secretary when former secretary Mary Miller resigned due to illness. The party was held at a seasonally decorated Tizzano’s Party Center in Euclid and as a smashing success, complete with Chinese raffle, valuable prizes and a spectacular dinner! We were entertained with music by Joey Tomsick, our affable polka celebrity. Prizes included an afghan handmade and donated by Mary Jo Rom and an afghan donated by Angie Shine in memory of her sister, Stella Kaporc. Guests included Branch 25 member Emilee Jenko, polka radio promoter Tony Petkovšek, Dorothy Lamm and John and Mary Prizzi. Once again our Vice-President, Cookie Maxin provided wonderful centerpieces and party favors, and everyone received a bookmarker commemorating our anniversary. A brief meeting was held and the following officers were re-elected; Rose Mary Toth - President, Cookie Maxin -Vice President, Fran Kajfez - Treasurer, and Josephine Wutchiett - Secretary; Anne Tomsick - Zarja Reporter and Auditors - Lillian Homer and Louise Troglia. We express our deepest sympathy to the family of Frances Kikel (63-year member) on her passing. At age 92 she was still driving, and faithfully attended (and looked forward to) our meetings. Fran will be sorely missed. Congratulations to Mary Jo and Peter Rom who celebrated their 50th Jean and Rudy Paik Mary Jo and Peter Rom Nebraska, who celebrated 69 years of marriage on June 12,2006. They were married at St. Vitus Church in Cleveland. Their children are David, Robert, Donald and Carol. Jean has been a loyal Branch 50 member for many years and extremely proud of her Slovenian Wedding Anniversary on October 6lh at St. George Church in Cleveland. Congratulations to Jean (nee Jaksic) and Rudy Paik currently living in Omaha, This year our officers are the same as every year and we will continue to keep our small group and not give up. Fran Sainato has some critical eye problems and hopefully she’ll continue to improve. Our charter member, Vic Zuga has not been doing well. Keep her in your prayers. Our Mother - Daughter luncheon, will be on Wednesday, May 16"' at Cafe 422 at One o’clock. I’ll be calling you for reservations. Have a good Lent and Happy and Blessed Easter to all. Joanne Ponikvar BRANCH 55 - Girard, Ohio Greetings and Happy New Year 2007! I hope this finds each of you in good health. In branch news, the annual Christmas Party was held on November 30, 2006 along with members of AMLA Lodge 42 - Slovenska Bistrica, at Little Peppinos restaurant in Girard. Sadly, this was the last Christmas party to be held at the restaurant as owners Angie and Joe Migliozzi closed their family business on December 31,2006 after 25 years in the area. Members in attendance included Joan Twaddle, Dolores DePietro, Maria Selak, Milka Kregar and Anka Krakora. Those members who could not attend were certainly missed this year. Our thoughts and prayers are especially with all that are currently experiencing sickness or confronting various illnesses. The party commenced with a brief meeting, election of officers, and other end of year business. Members in attendance voted to keep the current slate of officers in their respective positions for another term. After a delicious Italian buffet-style dinner and dessert, Dolores DePietro entertained us with a button box performance. This was followed by the singing of Christmas carols in Slovenian and English, the distribution of traditional Sv. Miklavž cookies made by Maria Selak, and much merriment for all. Christmas Party, 2006 In other news, Milka Kregar is currently recovering from illness at Liberty Health Care Center. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. We wish you a speedy recovery! Our next meeting will be held in March. Members will be contacted with the date and meeting place at a later time. Please try to attend. That’s all the news for now. Health and happiness to all! Monica Selak Branch 89 - Oglesby, Illinois Greetings to everyone, especially our out of town members. We had a very successful bakeless bake sale. Many thanks to all who contributed, particularly the members who live away from Oglesby. We appreciate your generosity. We’re having fun at our meetings with the “Guess Who?” feature. Barbara Bruch brought the November picture of her mother and four aunts, the Terselic girls, taken in 1942. The month before Darlene Wasielewski brought a picture of her parents, Sophie Perschuh and Frank Frank, at their wedding. Lakho Noe-Good Night was our Slovenian phrase to learn. We’ll soon all be fluent. We lit candles and said the Rosary for our 75 departed members. Twelve members and guests at Delaney’s Restaurant attended our Christmas party on December 4. Bad weather that night kept some away. President Alice Ebner has a treat in store for our junior members. In February she is teaching them how to make apple strudel and in March there will be a potica class. This should be a lot of fun. The kids will do it all from grinding nuts to stretching dough. I wish 1 was a junior member. Barbara Bruch barbarabruch@vahoo.com BRANCH 99 - Lemont, Illinois Greetings and a very happy March-April to you all. My name is Olivia Schultz, not only am I a long time member, first time writer for the SWUA, but 1 am also the granddaughter of Frances Schultz, and great granddaughter of the late “Fannie” Zibert. Now I’ll happily be bringing you an inside look at our organization and all its events! Not only do 1 proudly represent the Slovenian Women’s Union of America (and a dedicated attendee at our annual Bunco bash), but I also enjoy dancing, playing the violin, attending youth groups at church, and editing the yearbook at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville. I will be graduating in May, and will attend a community college to hopefully transfer and major in journalism. So bear with me, I haven’t exactly earned a bachelor’s yet! Regardless of my journalistic credentials, I am here to inform you of the following news. Our next meeting is March 4th in the Slovenian Cultural Center Library at 12:30 pm. We will be selecting our mother/member of the year, and all are encouraged to participate in this election. Speaking of active members, 1 am proud to announce Frances Schultz as our delegate representing Branch 99 at the National Convention at Starved Rock this June. (Way to go Grandma!) Branch 99 is happy to be directing the Convention’s Potica Contest. Other honorable mention as a result of our 2007 election goes to our President - Corinne Leskovar, Vice-President - Jean Gale, Treasurer - Tom Zakosek, Secretary - Julie Partyka and Auditors - Fran Schultz and Michaela Simrayh. Furthermore, there will be no meeting in April, but all are welcome to attend 11a.m. Mass on April 1st, followed by Palm Sunday Brunch at the Cultural Center. This is free of charge, thanks to all the sponsors of the Cultural Center, including Branch 99. Lastly, we would like to pray for Marilyn Zolakar and Darinka Tkalec and their families, who have gone to the Lord this year. Let us also pray that Jennie Valent and Marie Petek recover soon! Olivia Schultz BRANCH 100-Fontana, California Sunday, December 10th was a special day for our members. We gathered for a lovely lunch at the Curtain Call Dinner Theater, which was followed by a stirring rendition of the well-known “Fiddler on the Roof’. It was nice to see so many of our good friends in attendance, some that we only see a couple of times a year. After the play, the cast came back onstage for a Sing-a-Long of Christmas Carols that added to the festivities. Most of us continued the afternoon at the home of Rosemary and Fred Mlakar where our December meeting was held. Rosemary is a wonderful hostess, and had the house all decorated and ready for Christmas. And, even though everyone was still satisfied from his or her ample meal, we enjoyed some nice treats to top things off. After minutes were read and correspondence discussed, we had our election of officers for the new year. Mary Lou Jensen was nominated and accepted the office of President, since Mary Lou Vidergar was no longer available to take the position. Mary Lou Jensen is the daughter of Anne Kapel who served us for many years. She has been very active in our group. Jeanette (Jan) Eckert accepted the position of Vice-President. Rosemary Mlakar will continue on as Secretary/Treasurer and Jean Koci will continue her position as Recording Secretary and Reporter We then discussed the nomination of “Member of the Year”. Marge Ostrowski was selected and accepted the nomination. There were no other nominations. A tentative date for the Member of the Year Luncheon is Saturday, April 28th. You will read more about our honoree in a later issue of the Zarja. The next order of business was the selection of a delegate to the National Convention. Our new President, Mary Lou Jensen was nominated and accepted on the condition that she would be able to arrange her time off from work. Several others hope to travel to Illinois to attend, as well. This is, indeed, a special year for the SWUA! The 80th Anniversary edition of the Zarja was truly a memorable issue with so many interesting articles. I’m certain the convention will have many wonderful activities for the attendees to enjoy. Those of us who are hoping to attend are really looking forward to it, so that we may meet members from many places in the U.S. and hopefully to have the chance to visit nearby centers such as the Home Office and Museum in Joliet, as well as the Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont. We send our sympathy to the family of Jean Kurilich, former officer and active member of the branch for many years who passed away since my last article. Na svidenje! Jean Koci BRANCH 102 - Willard, Wisconsin Our meeting and Christmas party was held December 2nd with 16 members and 14 guests. Our February meeting was on the 3rd with a potluck lunch at noon. We held our hunters bake sale in November. Our March bake sale will be Palm Sunday weekend. Our Member of the Year, Sandy Herrick will be honored Saturday, April 28lh. A potluck lunch will be served. Our spring plant sale will also be held that weekend. Congratulations to Charlene Herrick and Kory Broda, and Ashley Trunkle and Keith Volovsek who were married recently. Also Congratulations to Ed and Josephine Bayuk and Frank and Rose Pakiz on their 60,h Wedding Anniversaries. We lost two members, Jean Govek and Edith Backus. They will both be sadly missed. Our condolences to the Val Krainz Family. Val was the husband of Helen who was a very active member until for health reasons; is now in a nursing home. Prayers for the health of Darwin Kokaly and Ed Bogdonovich who was hurt during their house fire. The Willard Centennial Celebration in honor of the first Slovenian settlers to arrive in Willard-1907 will be held on July 27-28-29. The Settlers Park will be dedicated on Saturday July 28th. There will be Polka bands, Slovenian Pastries and a noon potluck picnic on Sunday, July 29th. Every one is welcome to attend any or all of the festivities. For further information call 715-267-3142. ________________________________________Agnes Debevec BRANCH 103 - Washington, DC Social Evening, November 11, 2006 - Balloons floated in the air, anchored to tinsel-covered rocks on tables covered with red and white tablecloths and vases holding red carnations. This sight greeted our guests at our social evening. The locale new to us left the attendees exclaiming in delight at the Colonial Room at the Church of Christ the King. Also new was the fact that this was our first catered event with food prepared by Mama Lucia’s restaurant, a well-known establishment in the Washington, DC, and -Maryland area. The buffet table was laden with Mama Lucia’s fancy bread, chicken and pasta, sausage and pasta, salad, and desserts including brownies, cookies and cannoli. We supplemented this repast with our traditional offering of sauerkraut and klobase. Since the food was served by Mama Lucia’s staff, our members were free to enjoy the evening, although they were still busy selling potica, strudel, and the like and framed Gaspari prints as well as syrup. Four members sang the Slovenian national anthem followed by a toast with wine supplied by the Slovenian Embassy. They also entertained us with a medley of other Slovenian songs. Ambassador Samuel Zbogar’s speech helped us understand what has occurred in Slovenia following its independence in 1991. As in other years Frank Vidergar on the accordion and Gene Schacher on the guitar played music that kept many on the dance floor. Because of an array of prizes from which they could choose and because of the foot-tapping music, the children happily joined in the fun and helped serve beverages and with the raffle. For this occasion, the members decided to commemorate the 41st anniversary of Branch 103, the 80th anniversary of the SWUA, and the 15lh anniversary of the independence ofSlovenia. According to custom, we collected donations for Fisher House Foundation (provides housing for military families whose members are undergoing treatment at various military medical facilities) and Catholic Mission Aid (helps support Slovenian missionaries in underdeveloped countries). Marie T. Stelow, MS, LCPC Individual, Couple, Family Therapy 1000 Essington Road Phone: (815) 773-2303 Joliet, IL 60431 Fax: (815) 744-1623 As usual we had a raffle with quite a few lovely prizes, including paintings by members, glass cake plates, and a glass bowl. Our vice president Angela Stare prepared an enjoyable and informative collage of branch activities through the years. Mike Pausic, photographer for the evening, caught many of our activities on camera, which will be a great reminder of a memorable evening. Last but certainly not least, we honored two Members of the Year-Matilda Ausich and Peter Mejac, our first male honoree. Our December meeting was held on the first Sunday of the month in the cafeteria at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, at which we discussed the Social Evening and what we could have done differently or better, and voted for the officers for the coming year. Mimi Mejac and Mary Lou Terselic mmgram4445@rcn.net and maryterselic@juno.com BRANCH 108 - Olney, Maryland In November our branch celebrated its third anniversary with a luncheon and guest speaker presentation. Thanks to all our members who brought homemade dishes and Slovenian desserts to share. We were grateful to have Ms. Marjeta Cedilnik, a native Slovenian who now lives in Maryland with her family join us in presenting a picturesque video highlighting travel to the top of Mt. Triglav and other scenic sights in Slovenia. Copies of this lovely original CD of breathtaking sights and background music will be available through Ms. Cedilnik this year. Member Lynn Koiner recently returned from Europe and a short visit to Slovenia’s oldest city, Ptuj where she purchased for our branch archives an authentic Kurant doll. The doll will be displayed for the first time at our February 11 meeting when we will celebrate Pust with a hearty meal and traditional krofi, just before the season of Lent begins. Thanks to Lynn, we can share the ancient story of this colorful, whimsical Kurant replica with our members, for future family library programs and Pustna veselica celebrations. Helena Schweiger sends her regards to all from London, England. She fondly remembers our group and will contact us if her work travels bring her to Washington, DC. John G. Amez, Ph.D. of Louisville, KY has offered to visit our branch and guests to show a DVD documentary about Studia Slovenica and his father Dr. John Arnez’s life experience entitled “Uresničene sanje Dr. Janeza Arneža” (A Fulfillment of Dreams by Dr. John Amez) that was aired Farewell to Helena Schweiger (middle), June 2006 on RTV Slovenija last summer. Look for further details in an e-mail invitation and the March on-line newsletter. The documentary highlights the challenges of life situations following WWII immigration to America, and the founding of “Studia Slovenica,” in 1957 for the purpose of publishing books and articles pertaining to Slovenian immigrants. Weather permitting, members and guests will participate in Slovenian costume in the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Gaithersburg at the Washingtonian Center on Saturday morning, March 17 at 10:00 a.m. For details, go to parade@hssg.org. We have had fun participating in this event in the last three years, so all are invited to come out! Bernadette K. Fitzsimmons Bettekfitz@comcast.net BRANCH 109-Twin Cities, Minnesota Srečno Novo Leto! Christmas 2006 has passed but the memories of the Twin Cities Slovenians’ Christmas gathering still lingers: Joe Kuznik teaching Slovenian holiday vocabulary; a nostalgic Christmas reading written in 1926 by Marie Prisland(S WUA founder) read by Mary Ann Palmer; Don Palkovich talking about Christmas dinner and gift giving in Slovenia; Al Siftar reading children’s letters illustrating Christmas traditions; John Zakelj’s boyhood recollections of St. Nicholas day and Miro Medved leading us in the Slovenian version of “Silent Night.” Our Christmas celebration would not have been complete without Mary Zgonc Manning baking “many dozen” of krofi (which complimented the excellent ham) and Yvonne McComber’s fresh rosemary flavored shortbread cookies. The Twin Cities Slovenians ushered in the New Year with a wine tasting and hors d’oeuvre 2nd anniversary party catered by our own Andy Percic who operates the Nectary and the Bridgewood restaurants. The highlight of this well attended social event (52) was for members to guess the “mystery” of a well battered suitcase with a single, old leather children’s shoe located inside. Mary Percic Bernard brought the battered suitcase along with ladies’ headdress “Avba”. The “avba” was Mary’s great grandmother’s. As it turned out, the suitcase was Mary’s bed in the refugee camp. Karen Medved and Dee Dee Sherek guessed correctly and received complimentary tickets to the Singing Slovenes who will be performing in St. Cloud, MN on April 15th. Come March we will be electing officers for the coming year and discussing the upcoming SWUA National convention. Norm Setnicker, our acting president, has been involved with SWUA By- laws committee and will be attending the convention along with his wife, Mary Ann. Karen and Bonita Bjorgo who were instrumental in the founding of Branch 109 will also be in attendance. We look forward to a productive convention and anticipate a lively discussion centering on a possible name change for SWUA along with gender and religious word changes within the current By-laws. Norm Setnicker Slovenian Women’s Union of America Slovenska Ženska Zveza v Ameriki Membership Application Yes! I want to join the S.W.U. I want to preserve and promote the legacy of our Slovenian-American heritage. As a member I will receive the publication, ZARJA-The Dawn; I can affiliate with branches and events across the country and best of all, I will come in contact with fellow Slovenes. Please type or print legibly. Choose type of membership: □ Junior (Birth to 18), Annual Dues $5.00 Name and Middle Initial ___________________________________ Street Address______________________________________________ Phone/Fax Date of Birth Please describe your Slovenian ancestry I I Adult, Annual Dues $20.00 City/State/Zip E-Mail Do you speak Slovenian? How did you hear about us? Applicant’s signature:__________ S.W.U. member newspaper website other Date: Branch Affiliation No. (if known) Location: Please make checks payable to the Slovenian Women’s Union of America and mail to: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA, 431 North Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432 (815)727-1926 email: swuhome@sbcglobal.net webpage: www.swua.org Please allow four to six weeks for membership processing. In addition to my dues, I wish to contribute to the General Fund: In honor of In memory of For Office Use: Date Received: Membership No. Branch Affiliate: Send acknowledgement to would like to volunteer for the SWUA My area of interest or expertise is: Tell a Friend! If you wish us to send information to a friend or relative just fill in name and address here: My friend’s name Address City State Zip Zimmer FUNERAL HOMES Mark Zimmer, Funeral Director mark@zimmerfuneralhome.com 805 North 6th Street, Sheboygan, WI 53081 (920) 457-7012 - Fax: (920) 457-7013 W 2132 Ganton Rd., Sheboygan, WI 53083 (920) 565-2331 www.Zimmerfuneralhome.com Zarja has Lost a Good Friend and Co-worker ENTERTAINING... With a touch of Slovenia 80th ANNIVERSARY GALA Because this issue highlights the upcoming Convention I thought my column should too. Now is a great time to remind you of all the reasons you should be attending the 80th Anniversary Celebration of our organization. It’s all about - Honoring the Past.... Envisioning the Future! You don’t have to be a delegate or attend the convention to be a part of this. EVERYONE is invited to this grand celebration. The excitement begins at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday afternoon for the Slovenian Expo. There will be vendors, exciting seminars and so many displays you will enjoy. To make things convenient for those coming from out of town, the Gala follows the Expo. This is going to be a feast you don’t want to miss. I am working closely with the Chef at Starved Rock Lodge on the menu for this festive occasion. I am handpicking those favorite-tasting recipes of our ancestors to be served at this meal. In addition I am in the process of securing wines from the homeland - let’s keep our fingers crossed on this one. Being a part of this celebration should be a must on everyone’s list. Not only will the food be outstanding but also will the entertainment. We have an exciting line-up, which includes the Singing Slovenes of Duluth, MN, children from our Camp Heritage showing off their talent and hopefully a surprise from Slovenia. Yes there will be plenty of surprises at this Gala from the beautiful centerpieces designed especially for this occasion to the commemorative piece of Rogaška crystal at every adult’s dinner place. This is going to be a great evening! And for those who love to shop this will be the final opportunity for our exciting Silent Auction. If you think you have a recipe that should be included for this meal, please share it with me. You can email the recipe to Zarja Director of Design wprokup@aol.com. Please do so by April 1, 2007. If your entree is selected it will be featured in the July/August issue of Zarja in this column as will the rest of the meal. I look forward to seeing many of you at the 80"’ Anniversary Gala. - Jenka The editors and membership mourn the loss of one of the finest co-workers that Zarja has had for the past 35 years. Martin Stimac, who immigrated from Croatia in 1950 and with his Slovenian-born wife, Bertha, was employed at the Croatian Franciscan Press, passed away January 20"’ after a 10 year battle with leukemia. Heartfelt sympathy to Bertha, four children and five grandchildren who dearly loved their “Dida”! He was a gentle man and we will always be grateful for his spirit of love for God, his family and Zarja! - C.L. Martin Stimac with his wife, Bertha, both members of Branch 99 C°nsulate General n« ? Suite 945 USA * 44113 NARODNA IN UNIVERZITETNA (CNJIžNICP DS II 54 788 2007 Be a Part of SWUA His 920092904,2 COBISS s We arc encouraging branches, individuals, businesses and families to consider purchasing an ad. Support SWUA! Honoring your Family or Advertisement with Pictures $300.00 $170.00 $80.00 $50.00 Full Page 1/2 Page 1 /4 Page 1/8 Page Carnation Circle $300.00-up $150.00-299.00 $75.00-$149.00 M $50.00 $74.00 $10.00-$49.00 Send To: Mitzie Banich 305 Pershing Road La Salle, Illinois 61301 Make your checks payable to: SWUA 2007 National Convention Deadline date is April 1, 2007