ZAPISNIKI 
"UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA" 
ANGLESKI IZVIRNIKI ZAPISNIKOV S SEJ 
"UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA" 
S SLOVENSKIM KOMENTARJEM 
30 Zapisniki "United Americgns for Sioveniq" 
MINUTES FROM GENERAL MEETING 
S LOVENIAN NATIONAL HOME - ST. CLAIR AVENUE/EAST 65TH STREET 
JUNE 30, 1991 
Meeting called to order at approximately 7: 40 P.M. 
Introduction by Mr. Charles Ipavec l 
Introduction by Yugoslav General Consulate, Matja;; Jancar.2 
Mr. JanCar explained his points of view and possible avenues to assist 
Slovenia due to crisis in Slovenia and Yugoslavia. 
Mr. Jancar was informed activity has already occurred regarding the 
following: general listing with telephone/ fax numbers for Executive, State 
Department, and Congressional branches of government; personalised letters 
to President Bush,3 Secretary of State James Baker,4 and for U.S. Senator/U.S. 
Representatives in Congress. All US Representatives and US Senators will also 
receive a mail-o-gram on July 1, 1991, regarding support for indepe ndent and 
democratic Slovenia and for their support on this matter; over 1,000 leaflets 
containing contact persons were also distributed by today; and a news 
conference had been planned and executed on June 28, 1991. 
All above activities had been co-ordinated and performed by Slovenian 
American Council. It was also noted that original elections held in April 1990 
were initiated by the SAC,5 in terms of financial and moral support. This paved 
the way for independence movement. 
Additional comments were made by many persons. Final proposal initiated 
by Father Joseph P. Boznar,6 pastor, St.Vitus, was agreed upon in the following 
manner:one (I) representative from the five (5) fraternal organisations (AMLA,7 
* * * 
1 Hojen leta 1921 v ClcvcJandu, pravnik in pravni svctoV'.ilec za Charter Onc Uank v Clcvc[andu, dolgolctni 
prcdsednik Clcvclandskc fedcracijc narodnih domov. Izhaja iz podjcrngke dru?ine, v katcrc I<lsti jc hila dolga 
leta Double Eagle Bottling Company in podjetjc, ki sc je ukvarjalo s prodajo avtomobilov. 
2 Jugoslovanski diplomat in slovenski JX>litik. Rojcn leta 1940 v Ljubljani, umrlleta 1996. Konwl v ZRN, gener-
alni konzul SFRJ v Clevclanduj v 8()-ih Icrih prcdscdnik Slovenske izseljcnske matice. 
3 George H. W. Bush; raj. leta 1924 v Miltonu, Massachusetts. Predsednik Zdruzenih drhlv v IClih 1989-1993. 
4 Uaker James Addison, Ill; raj. lcul 1930, pravnik; nosilet ~tevilnih drzavnih funkci;, podsekrclar sekrcrarial4l. 
za rrgovino 1975-76, vodja kampanje l.a izvolitev Gcorgea l1usha za predscdnika Zdruicnih drlav leTa 1988, 
<!merBki driavni sekret<!r za zunanje l.adeve v obdobju 1989-1992, 1992-1993 ! ef oscbja Rele hiSe. 
5 Sloven ian American Council , organizacij<!, ki je podprla Slovenske krSCna.'ike dcmokmle in Siovensko 
kmecko zvczo na volitvah v skup~tino SRS teta 1990. 
6 t.upnik pri Sv. Vidu v ClcvdancJu. 
7 Ameritan Mutual Life Associmion (Amcriska dobrodelna zveza), organizacija, ustanovljena v Clcvclandu tela 
1910. 
Rozorove in 9rodivo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 31 
KSKJ." PSWA'y SWU,IO and SNPJll); the three (3) main Siovenian Catholic 
parishes (St.Vitus,12 St.Mary's,13 and St. Lawrence)14 also one representative; one 
representative from the Siovenian American Council;15 one (1) representative 
from the Aliiance;16 and one (1) representative from the (Federated) Sloven ian 
National Homes17 to serve on a temporary "AD HOC" Committee to work 
toward informing and maintaining the democracy and independence in 
Slovenia. Edmund Turk1S will act as legal advisor with the American Home 
Games Debevec l9) and Joseph Valencic20 acting as public relations advisors. 
Ad Hoc committee will meet at 4:00 P.M. at AMLA headquarters in Cleveland, 
Ohio on July I , 1991. 
Meeting concluded at approximately 9:55 P.M. 
Respectfully Submitted, Stane S. Kuhar21 
* * * 
8 American Sloven ian Catholic Union; slovenska fr.l.ternalistiCna or~anizacija , ustanovljcna leta 1894 v Jolietu, 
[I.. 
9 Progres .. ~ive Slovenc Women of Amcrica; slo\'Cnsko politicno in dohrodclno drustvo, ustanovljeno leta 1934 
vlDA 
10 Slovene Women 's Union; katolisko orientirana bratska podrorn<l organizacij<l slovenskih zena, organiziran,l 
leta 1928 v Chicagu. 
11 Siovenska narodna podporna jed nota; ustanovljena leta 1904 v Chicagll Pri United Americans for Slovenia 
s scde7.em v Celevclandll ni sodclov<ll<l Amcriska br<tlska zveza (American Fraternal Union), organizacij;l S 
sedezem v Ely, Minnesota. ustanovljena 1898, ki je se danes tretja najvccja od Sloveneev organizirana brat~ka 
podporna organizacija v lOA. Se pa kasncjc prcdscdnik tc organizadjc tudi pojavlja v Stcvilnih dclegacijah v 
zvezi s predswvljanjclll slovenskih problemov v lDA. 
12 Slovcnska Clnictll[ ;f.upnija, u .~lanovljcna lela 1894. 
13 Slovcnska etnicna :i:upnija, ustanovljcna leta 1905. 
14 Siovenska ctnitna zlIpn ija, lIstanovljena lela 1901. 
15 Organizacija slovcnsk ih izscljenecv, ki so se po drug; svetovni vojni izsclili iz politicnih razlogov in so na 
vOlitvolh v Slovcnij i lct<l 199<) podprli strdnkc DEMOS-<l . 
16 Organizacija, ki so jo lcza 1990 ustanovili s soclclovanjclll vseh slovcnski h organ izacij v Clevclandu, z 
namenOIll podpol'c dcrnokraticnim procesolll v Sloveniji.. 
17 V Clcvclandu jc tcdaj sc vedno delovalo osem slovcnskih narodnih dOIllOV, to je stavb, ki so jih zgrad ili 
slovenci z namcnom, da bi lahko v njih organizirali kulturne, zabavnc in politicne prircditvc. 
l R Rojen leta 1925 v Clcvel;mdu, Ohio. Diplomiral na pravni fakultcti Clcveland-Marshall College of Law lela 
1954. Od leta 1901 do leta 1973 clan dcvclandskega mcstnega $ve[a. Prcdscdnik mestnega sve[a ad leta 1972 
do leta 1973. Predscdnik Sloven ian American Heritage rOllnda[ion in nosilcc os[alih funkcij. 
19 Lastnik podjctja, ki izdaja Amerisko domovino. 
20 Hojen leta 1954 v Clcvclandu. Od sredc osemdesctih le[ se ukvarja z rckhul1ami, ad lera 1977 do 19H2 je bil 
zaroslen v Wcstern Hcscrve Historical Society kjer jc hil zadnl1.cn za pripravo razstav. Dircktor agencijc za 
reklamiranjc International Management Group od leta 1992 dalje. Predsednik Clevclandskc Fcdcracijc drllstev 
SNP) od lew 19B2, podpredsednik drustv(l SNP) St. 5. Naprcj od leta 1981 in stevilnih drugih slovcnsko-<lrllcr-
iskih klliturnih organizadj v Clevclandu, avtor clankov v Encyclopedia of Clcvcland History ter Western 
Heserve Historical Sodcty Quartt!rly. 
21 Rojell lew 1953 v Clcvclandu. Diplomiral iz komunikacijskih ved na Ohio State University leta 1976. 
PodiplofllSki stud ij kOlllunikacijskih ved na Cleveland State University in v okvifU Ameritrust Company Leta 
1991 jc postal vodja prodajc v oddelku Society Dank. Aktiven v livljcnju slovcnskih organizacij v C!eveiandll, 
se z!asti v okvirll fare Svelcga Vida. 
1 
32 
MINUTES OF THE JULY 1, 1991 
MEOING - AAU. HOME OFFICE 
JULY 1, 1991 
4:00 P.M. 
19pjsniki HUniled Americans for Slovenia" 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 4: 10 P.M. 
Several of the original appointees were unable to attend today's meeting. Their 
replacements were: Joseph Baskovic22 for Eugene Kogovsek23 (KSKJ): John 
Pestotnik24 for Tony Hiti25 (The Alliance); Frank Urankar for Father Kumse (St. 
Mary's);26 Frank Sega27 for Stan Kuhar28 (The Council); Cirila Kermavner29 for 
Jean Krizman (SWU)30 Father Boznar represented both St. Vitus and St. 
Lawrence Parishes (Father ReboI31 ). Also present were Jim Debevec of the 
American Home Weekly and Joseph Valencic. Touched briefly on including a 
member from the American Fraternal Union (APU) and the cultural groups. All 
agreed this should be done. 
Stan Ziherl32 reported on a call from Yugoslav Consul Jancar saying that 
eventhoug the media is telling us there is a 90-Day moratorium, the Siovenians 
are not in agreement with their independence moratorium: they only agreed to 
freeze some of the implementive procedures. Also, the East Coast Sloven ian 
••• 
22 Clan gbtvncga odbora in podpredscdnik AmcriSko slovcnskc k.uoli~kc jcdnOic. 
23 Prcdscdnik Alllcrisko slovcnskc k,Holiskc jed note. 
24 Slovcnski podjcrnik Ii'. Clevctand ... , prcdstavnik United Sloven ian Society in Slovcnian-Amcrican Radio Club. 
25 Anthony W Hiti.j arhitckt, rojen lela 1%3 (Cleveland, Ohio). Studiral arhitckturo na UniVCfl.ah v Cindnnaliju 
in Ljubljani. Arhilckl in oblikovalcc v Euckidu, Ohio. Clan ~fevilnih slovcnskih organizadj v Clcvclandu, mcd 
drugim ludi podprcdscdnik S. A. H. F Soavtor: Guide to Cleveland ArchitcClure (1991) 
26 John M. KUfllSCj mjcn lela 1952 v Barbcnonu, Ohio. Diplarniral zgodovina na I3orrollleo CoIJegcu v 
Clcvclandu in studiral tcologijo na 5t Mary Se minary v Clevehmdu. Postal 2upnik pri Sv. Mariji v Clevdandu leta 
1987. 
27 Tajnik Drustv'd ill. 169 K5KJ in clan vodStv'd 51ovensko ameriSkega sveta. 
28 Stane S. Kuhar, mje n leta 1953 v Clevelandu. Studir.d komunikacijskc vede na Ohio University (1976) in 
latem na Cleveland State University. Clan Slovenskega ameriskcga sveta. 
29 Podprcdsednica Slovenske 1.cnske lvezc, organizacije katoliski ameriskih slovcnskih zena, ki je bila 
ustanovljena leta 1928 
30 Rojcna leta 1921 v Clc..-vclanuu. Diplomimla na Ohio University v Athens (Ohio) leta 1943. Njcna poklitna 
karicra jc VClana na vodenjc mrcZc rcstavracij Stouffer. V letih 1975-1980 podpredsednica korporacije Stouffer 
Food. Od leta 1980 v pokoju. Aktivna jc hila v najrazJicnejilih slovcnskih organizacijah, !ie zlasti kat clan ica 
direktorija slovenskih Narodnih domov ter clanica Slovcnske 1cnske zvezc. 
31 Anthony Reho!, 2upnik pri Sv. uwrcncu v Clevclandu. 
32 Stanley Ziherl, rojcn tela 1929 v Clevelandu. Pravnik in predsednik American Mutual Life Association 
(AM LA), organizacije, ki je hila pod imenom Siovenska dohrodelna Zvcza ustanovljena v Clcvclandu kot edina 
ccntrdlizirana bf"df:;ka podporna organizacija.~ sedc?'.em v Clevelandu. Njegov oce je ustanovil podjctje MZ &. W 
Tool" v okraju Lake. 
Rgzprave in grgdjvo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 33 
Enterprises are interested in establishing some lobbying for this cause. We also 
have access to the Fax No. of DELO: and]. Evanish33 of SNPJ has informed Stan 
that we could set up a Western Union Hotline for $ 6.75/Message. 
Our first objective was to have a name for this organisation. Several sugges-
tions were discussed and the final decision was to call this Ad Hoc Committee 
"United Americans for Slovenia". 
Our purpose clause was also discussed at length with several suggestions. 
Father Boznar's suggestion was accepted unanimously on a motion by Stan 
Ziher!, second by John Pestotnik. It shall read: "The United Americans for 
Slovenia support the declaration of independence of Slovenia. We urge the 
government of the United States of America to give immediate recognition to 
the new democratic government of the Republic of Slovenia". 
Jim Debevec reported that he was on Station WWWE this morning from 9:00 
to 9:15 A.M. and that it is important that we get support of all Americans to help 
us in this effort. He has received many phone calls from different areas of the 
United States asking where they can call; send money, etc. 
Jean Krizman contacted the American Red Cross and was able to pass out a 
letter indicating the work the Red Cross is engaged in connection with the 
Yugoslav situation. 
Discussion ensued on a membership roster with names, addresses and 
phone numbers. Since expediency is of utmost importance in disseminating 
information to members of many organisations, it was decided that each organ-
isation should use its own resources.. whether it be individual letters to its 
membership, weekly newspapers, church bulletins, etc. to encourage con-
cerned citizens to respond. This could be done through a form letter, fax, phone 
or personal letter. 
Also brought up was the need for office space; funding for this organisation, 
letterhead stationery. Stan Ziher! offered the AM LA Home Office for immediate 
use; Father Boznar felt that parishes and, perhaps, fraternal organisations could 
share the burden of cost. Securing stationery was tabled for the present time. 
John Pestotnik provided the names and addresses of all the Senators and 
Representatives in Washington D.C. All agreed that a copy of the July 1st issue 
* * * 
33 John Ev:mish; rojcn let .. 1959 v Pittsburgu, Pennsilv .. nia. Diplomiral iz ckonomije na Robcn Morris Collegeu, 
Coraopolis PA. Od let" 1991 prcdsednik SNPJ, 
34 Zapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
of the American Home Weekly should be sent to each one. Stan Ziherl agreed 
to send the Senators each a copy. Since a cover letter with a brief explanation of 
our purpose for the mailing was necessary, Edmund Turk asked Joe Valencic to 
draft such a letter. This was done almost immediately and the letter was 
approved by all. 
Since the task of sending out approximately 500 lette rs to each membe r of 
the House of Representatives is monumental, Betty Rotar34 suggested that we 
have a "lick and stamp" meeting on Thursday, July 4th at 9:00 A.M. at w hich time 
volunteers could either type labels or stuff the e nvelopes. Again, we wi ll use the 
AMLA Home Office to accomplish this job. 
We discussed at length what other areas should be covered and it was felt 
that State Officials of Ohio, Michigan, illinois, Pennsylvania and o ther states, 
where there are large Sloven ian settle ments would be helpful to our cause. Here 
again, pe rhaps the Fraternals could help in securing names and addresses of 
officials in their respective states. 
Jim Debevec suggested a press release covering yesterday's meeting and 
tonight's meeting be sent to the media, as well as notifying Slovenia. Joe 
Valencic volunteered to do this. Jim also asked w he re people could send money 
for victims in Yugoslavia and it was suggested that if anyo ne asks, we 
recomme nd contacting the Red Cross of Slovenia. 
Edmund Turk commended Jim Debevec on printing the July 1st edition of 
the American Home Weekly to insure our people knOWing of the plight o f 
Slovenia and the efforts that are being made to help. 
The meeting was adjou rned at 6: 10 P.M. The next meeting will be held on 
Friday, July 5th at 7.00 at the AMLA Ho me Office. 
* * * 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Record ing Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
34 ROjena lela 19i9 v Clevclandu, dolgolctna funkcio[l<lrka lokalncga drus{Va SJovenske narodnc podpornc 
jed note (SNPJ) in (I<lnica glavncga odbora SNPJ . V c"su dclovanja United Americans for Slovenia (UAS) jc bila 
rcgionalna podpredseunica SN P) , ki je preds[3v!jala Cleveland. Bila jc ludi prcdsednica pcvskcga drllStva 
")admn" in clan ica odbora Slovcnskl!g'l dC[;lVskega doma na Waterloo Road v Clevclandu. 
, 
Rozproye in gradivQ Ljubljana 1999 sl. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
19424 S. WATERLOO ROAD 
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44119 
JULY 2, 1991 
Dear Member of Congress; 
35 
As you know, hundreds of Americans trace their roots to the Republic of 
Slovenia. 
The current situation in Slovenia has brought together representatives of the 
largest Siovenian-American organisations to ask for your assistance. 
We, the me mbe rs of the United Americans for Slovenia, support the declara-
tion of independence of Slovenia. 
We urge you and the government of the United States of America to give 
immediate recognition to the new democratic government of the Republic of 
Slovenia. 
The enclosed copy of American Home, a national Slovenian-American news-
paper, will enlighten you to our concerns. 
Sincerely, 
Committee for Uniled Americans for Slovenia 
II 
36 lapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
MINUTES OF THE UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIJA 
WEDNESDAY, JULY 10, 1991 
SLOVEN IAN WORKMEN'S HOME 
The meeting was called to order at 7:50 P.M. by Chairman Edmund Turk, who 
then read the Proclamation that was issued by the City of Euclid just this 
evening, prior to this meeting. 
Absent this evening were: 
Carl Bonutti35 representing the Primorski Club 
Helen Konkoy representing the Fed. of Slovene Homes 
In the absence of Helen Konkoy, who took minutes at the July 5th meeting, 
Betty Rotar read the minutes. There were several corrections in the spelling of 
names which will be taken care of. Other corrections included: The word 
"Slovenian" should precede "American Heritage Foundation". On Pg. 2 the 
PSWA report should read: Frances Mauric36 sent some messages and made 
many calls, passing along information for members to call legislators. Also, 
Dorothy Gorjup, representing SNPJ reported that SNPJ Headquarters sent Mail-
o-Gram information to all secretaries. Information also was published in the 
Prosveta. On Pg. 3 under Joe Valencic's (Public Relations) report: He received 
calls from individuals regarding financial support. Also on Pg. 3, Father Kumse 
was the Celebrant with 1600 in attendance at St. John's Cathedral on July 1st 
and, again, it was Father Kumse who reported that upon meeting a journalist 
from the Columbus Gazette, it appears that not many people in Columbus 
realise that Cleveland is a strong Siovenian Community. On Pg. 4,John Pestotnik 
speaking for the Alliance of American Slovenes reported that $ 10,000 was sent 
to the hospital in Celje, Slovenia and the second $ 10.000 was going to be 
presented to an Elementary School in Celje, pending approval by three (3) 
members of the organisation who will make an "on site" determination since 
they would be in Slovenia for tlie Slovene World Congress. Also on Pg. 4 (top of 
* * * 
3S Karl Danulti, rojeD lei" 1928 \I Gorici. 'studiral ckonomijo in politicnc vedc na Case Western Reserve 
University v Clcvclandu in na univcrJ:i v Fribourgu, $vica. Profcsor ekonomije na Cleveland State Universi ty; 
kasnejsi castni koowl Rcpublikc Slovcnije v Clevclandu in vclcposlanik rcpublike Slovenijc v Vatik:mu. 
36 Odbornica Progrcsivnih slovcnskih l.cna Amcrikc, organizacija libcralno orientiranih slovcnskih zcn<l v 
ZDA, uSlanovljcna lela 1934 v Clcvclandu, <lklivna pa jc bila ludi pri pomoci za vzdrzevcnjc z:lhavi!\cncga parka 
SNPJ v Kinlanuu pri Clcvdanuu. 
7 
Rgzprgve in grgdivo ljubliono 1999 st. 34 37 
the page) a motion was made by Father Kumse to support the work being done 
by the United Americans for Slovenia as well as support the Appeal for Aid to 
Slovenia Fund being sponsored by the Slovenian American Council. Second by 
Martin Kumse.37 Motion passed. 
Relative to the above motion, Edmund Turk reiter.ted his remarks made at 
the previous meeting indicating that he said more than once, that this 
Organisation has nothing to do with fund raising, since our sole purpose is to 
influence the Government to recognise the independent Republic of Slovenia. 
We cannot raise funds in connection with any other group and, therefore, he 
was upset with the letter mailed out by the Slovenian-American Council dated 
July 5th. In the 4th paragraph, only the first sentence "The campaign is being co-
ordinated by the Slovenian American Council" is correct. The rest of the para-
graph should be stricken from all future correspondence. This should clarify 
our position. 
The minutes will be accepted as amended and corrected. 
Mike Polensek,38 Councilman from Ward 11 was introduced as was Tony 
Petkovsek. 39 Edmund Turk asked if there would be any objection to have Tony 
Petkovsek become a member of this Committee. Ann Opeka40 moved, second-
ed by]oyce Plemel ,41 Tony to represent Radio media. Motion passed. 
Matjai].near reported he has been in contact with Foreign Minister Rupel 42 
He has informed him of our function. He also received both the English and 
Slovenian text of the talks between Foreign Ministers that were held in Brioni. 
* * * 
37 Predscdnik Kluba slovcnskih upokojcnccv (Slovcnian Pcnsioncrs Club) v Barbenonu, Ohio. Strie Rev. 
Johna Kumscta. 
38 Rojcn ICla 1949 v Clevclandu. Diplomirdl na CUYAhoga Community Collcgcu. Od leta 1977 dalje chm IllCSI-
ncga svcla v Clcvclandu. Aktivcn v razlicnih clevclandskih brdlskih podpornih organizacijah. Od leta 1994 Clan 
vods£V"a mcstncga svela v Clevclandu. 
39 Anlhony L Pctkovsck; rojen leta 1941 v Clevclandu. D iplomiral na Ohio School of Broadcasting na Kcnt 
Stale University. Radijski napovcdovalcc in produccllt radijskih oddaj od 1%1. Laslnik postaje wnw 
( Petkovsck-Somil:h Broadcast Company) in podpredsednik Kollander World Travel. llstanovitcij clcve-
landskega slovcnskcga radij.~kega kluha in United Sloven ian Society of Greater Cleveland. SoustanovilClj in 
predscdnik amcrBko·slovcnskt! fondacije za polko. American Sloven ian Polka Foundation. Clan Svcta za Ulllct-
noslOhia. 
40 Prcdstavnik slovcnsko-amcriskc fundacije za ahranjanje kulturnc dcdBcinc (S[ovcnian American Hcritage 
Foundation) in nekdanji clan odbora Glasbene Malice. 
41 Ena ad ustanovitcljic in ('Ianica odbora Progrcsivnih slovcnskih 1-ena Amerikc. Aktivna jc tudi pri dramskcm 
dru.~tvu "Ivan C:mkar" in pcvskem zhoru ~Amon Verov.sck". 
42 Dimitrij Rupel, micn leta 1946 v Ljubljani. Slovenski socio[ag, pisate[j in politik. Diplomil'"dl lcta 1970 na 
Filozofski fakuit(!ti v Ljuhljani . Doktoriral iz sociologijc na univerzi Br"mdeis, ZOA. Od lcta 1992 redni profcsor 
za socio]ogijo kuhure.Uslilnovitclj in odgovorni urednik Nove revije v lelih 19B4-19B7. Slovenski zunanji 
minister v letih ]990-1992. V 1etih 1994-1997 lupan Ljubljanc. od lela 1997 velcposlanik RS v ZDA. 
38 Zopisniki "United Americans for Siovenio" 
Jim Debevec offered to take the English text and print in the American Home 
Weekly. As of this moment, Matjaz J ancar has officially been declared the 
Consul representing Slovenia. However, since Slovenia is not recognised by our 
Government, it is difficult to say what his position is. Mr. Millonig43 was nomi-
nated by the Government of Slovenia to lobby in Washington and is the liaison 
between Slovenia and the United States. 
Edmund Turk believes the Euclid City Council is the first legislative body to 
pass such a resolution in the State of Ohio. The City of Los Angeles also passed 
a resolution July 2nd. On the 24th of July, the City of Cleveland will also present 
a resolution and Rep. Ron Sustar44 will introduce a resolution in the House at 
the State level. All these passed resolutions should be faxed to Slovenia and John 
Pestotnik offered to do this. Mike Polensek said he talked to Senator Glenn45 
and that he has taken no position; what Mike is saying is, that we as individuals 
have to start letting Glenn, Eckart,46 Metzenbaum,47 Stokes,4~ Oaker49 and 
Feighan50 know that we want support and a firm commitment from each of 
them. 
Joe Valencic then read letters that were prepared for President Bush, our 
Congressmen, Secretary of State Baker and Ambassador Eagleburger.51 These 
* * * 
43 Peter Millonig, slovcnski podjctnik v Washingtonu, dolgolctni clan uredniseva rcvijc Cclov~ki %von in prvi 
prcdslavnik Slovcnijc v ZOA. 
44 I{onald Sustar, clan prcdstavni~kc zbornicc amcriSkc zvcznc dr:lavc Ohio in kasncjsi okrajni s<xlnik v 
Clcvclandu. 
45 John Glenn Herschel; rojen leul 192 1. Prvi amcriSki astronavt in prcdstavnik zvcznc drlavc Ohio v amcr-
iSkcnl sena!U v Washingtonu. 
46 Dcnnis E. Eckart; mjcn lc!a 1950 v Eucliuu, Ohio. Diplomiral na Xavicr Univcrsity !cr doktoriral na Marshall 
Law School v Clc\'cJanuu. Bil pmlancc v drzavi Ohio ter clan ameri~kcga kongrcsa v letih 1981-1993. 
47 Howard Morton MctzcnbaullI; mjen lew v Clevel,mdll leta 1917. Pravnik. Diplorniral na Ohio Statl.! 
University, School of Law. l".voljen v predstavniski dorn drzavc Ohio leta 1943-1947. <'::lan senala urzave Ohio. 
Leta 1974 ga jc guvcrner drzave Ohio kot demokrata irncnoval v senat Zdrllzen ih drzav, kjer je ostal do 23. 12. 
1974 in hi! 2. 11. 1976 izvoljen v senat ZDA; Clan senata vse uo danes. 
48 LOll is Stokes; mjen leta 1925 v Clcvc!andu, brat biv~ega zupan a Clevelanda Carla B. Stokesa, pravnik, 
ucmokratski kongresnik iz Oh ia, 1953 uiplollli ral n<l Cleveland Marshall Law School, izvoljcn v 95. ameriski 
kongrcs 1%9, v kongresu do lew 1998 (lOS kongrcs). V svoj i kongrcsniski ka rieri je billudi chill kongresncga 
odbord za obvcsccvalno dcjavnost. 
49 M .. ry Hose Dakar; rojen .. leta 1940, kongresnica iz Ohia od lew 1977 daljl', docentka na Cuyahoga 
Community College 1968-1975; clanica mcstncga svela v Clcvelandu 1973-1976, prebiva v Clcvelandu. 
50 Edward Farrell Feighanj rojcn lela 1947 v prcdmeslju Clevelanda, Lakewoodll; demokralski prcustavnik 
Ohi;! v Kongrcsu v obdobju 1983 do danes, pravnik v Clcvelandu, izvoljcn v predstavniski dom Ohi<l v Ictih 
1973-1982; komisar okrozja CuyahoRa v IClih 1979-1982; delegat v uemokratski konvcnciji drbve Ohio leta 
1980; prcbiva v Lakewoouu , Ohio 
51 Lawrence Sidney EaRlehurgcr; mjen leta 1930; velcposlanik Zdruzcnih ddav Arncrikc v )ugostaviji v lctih 
1977-1981, lcta 1989 postal J>0rnocnik url<lvncga sekrclarja v zunanjem ministrsrvu . 1989 je bil prL>dsednik 
Kissingcrjcve fondacijc kKissinger Associatcs tncorponucd - v New Yorku. Sodcloval je pri projeklu 
~ Yugoamcrica~, ki je n;1 amcrBki trA plasirala aVlomobilc krdgujev~ke kZastavc~. Leta 1991 postal drzavni sekrc-
tar (zunanji minister) ZOA. 
7 
Razprgye in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 39 
letters were to be signed by all the members of the Committee. 
Reports from the different representatives followed: 
SWU - Ann Tercek reported that she has contacted members in West VA, 
Washington, D.C., etc. Also contacted their President, Victoria Bobence52 and, of 
course, all the local members are doing their part. 
ST LAWRENCE - Father Rebol has already asked through the Sunday 
Bulletin for support and of course, addresses and telephone numbers for all 
represen tatives were included in the bulletin. 
5T VITUS - Father Boznar has written a lengthy article on the work that the 
Organisation (UAS) is doing. Parishioners need to know. Received communica-
tions from the Sloven ian Research Center (Prof. Edward Giles Gobetz53) re: 
"Myths and Facts about Slovenia". Father Boznar gave the copy to Stan Ziherl 
who will make copies for the Committee members. 
USS - John Pestotnik reported that he has been in contact with his daughter 
who is in Ljubljana. The Federal Army is removing some of the army members 
and replaced them with M.P.'s. There are 100 M.P.'s in Zadar, one of the many 
border cities of Slovenia. (sic!) The Chetniks have risen in Croatia and they are 
fighting again. John feels that the Federal Army will come back into Slovenia. 
Some would like to give up: however, orders are to kill anyone who wants to 
leave. There are mine areas around the barracks. We cannot let down on this 
problem. 
RADIO - Tony Petkovsek would like to zero in on a particular fund raiser 
campaign. Perhaps a 4-Hr. stint on the radio within the next two weeks, possibly 
on a Saturday afternoon. If we want to do this sort of thing, Tony has the 
accessibility and could handle eight (8) trunk lines for calls. Edmund Turk 
thought that, although an excellent idea, it should be "on hold" for a bit; perhaps 
a bit premature until we can sit down with some of our elected officials and see 
where we are getting resistance in Washington. John Pestotnik agreed it was a 
good idea; i.e., going ahead with a campaign for a specific purpose; perhaps 
getting a lobbyist in Washington. 
SAHF (Slovene American Heritage Foundation op. M. K.) Ann Opeka 
reported the SAHF issued a letter on information and requesting action and 
* * * 
52 Prcdscdnica knljcvncga drU~lva S[ovenske zenske zveze v Wasbing(ollu. 
53 Upokojcni profc.-;Of so<.:io[ogije na Kent State University, aVlOr, urednik in zaloznik stcvilnih knjig 0 prnh-
lcmatiki slovcnskih izsc1jcnccv Icr dolgolcfni dircktor Slm'cnian Hcscarch Ins(illllC of America s sede2cIll v 
Clcvctam.lu. 
,I 
40 ZopjsniKi "United Americans for Sioveniq" 
strong support for the independence of Slovenia. Letters sent to President Bush, 
Secretary of State Baker, Congressmen and Senators; also to Nationalities 
Services of Cleveland and Senior Services. The Foundation has also contributed 
to the finances for mailing purposes. Also contacting non-Slovenians for their 
support. The SNPJ Federation of Western PA is printing 5,000 prepaid post-
cards, with a message directed to Pres. Bush. These will be available at this week-
end's Siovenefest54 in Enon Valley.55 She has also been in touch with the County 
Auditor's office and they are willing to help. 
PUBLIC RELATIONS - Joe Valencic requested permission to represent The 
American Slovenes for Cultural Exchange at the Committee's suggestion. Betty 
Rotar moved. Stan Ziherl second the motion to have Joe Valencic as their repre-
sentative to this Committee. Motion passed. Joe reported he talked to our 
National President Joe Evanish over this weekend and was informed that the 
SNPJ has started a Slovenia Relief Fund which has been announced on National 
Television last week and the information is already printed in this week's 
Prosveta.56 During our SNPJ Federation Picnic where 700 people were in atten-
dance, two bands approached Joe and said if we could find a date, they would 
be happy to donate their services. We are thinking of Labor Day for this benefit 
fund-raiser. 
ASA - Tony Hiti reported he wrote to various representatives and officials in 
addition to helping at the AMLA office on the 4th of July. Dr. Susel 57 spoke at 
the Euclid City Council in support of the resolution. Dr. Susel has also brought 
back the official Flag of Slovenia. Tony feels we have to keep an audit on replies 
from the different representatives, etc. 
ST. MARY'S -Father Kumse encouraged parishioners to take petitions and 
sign them. He turned them in to this SWH tonight. Also announced the 
Sloven ian American Council Fund raiser as well as asked the people to call their 
respective Congressmen, etc . 
• * * 
54 Leino drulcnjc clanov SN P) in ()slalih Slovcnccv na podroeju slovenskc farme, na k,ucrcm sc zbcrc v [reb 
dneh vee kot 30, OO() ljudi. 
55 Kr<lj kjcr le?1 Borrough of SNP], malo mcsto v rokah SNP) 
56 Glasi\o SNP), tiskano v okrog 20.000 izvodih. 
57 Rudolph (M,m) Susc!j rojen leta 1940 (Cleveland, Ohio), doklora[ zgodovinskih vcd lela 1972 (Indiana 
University, Bloomington), profcsor zgodovinc na Arizona State University od leta 1979 daljc; urcdnik tcdn ika 
American Homc/ Amcriska dOffiovina, od leta 1981 datje urednik Our Voice ADZ, polul"'ddncga glasila A, M . L 
A., (American Mutual Life Organism ion, predhodno Slovcnska Dobrodelna Zveza), urcdnik Papers in Slovene 
Studies, 1967; avtorCianka 0 slovenskih Amcricanih v Harvard Em.:ydopcdia of American Ethnic Groups (1980) 
in Encyclopedia of Cleveland; clan AAASS, SSS. 
7 
Rgzprove in gradivo Ljubljqna 1999 St. 34 41 
BARBERTON - Martin Kumse did much the same as Father Kumse, but at the 
Sacred Heart Church in Barberton. Had people sign petitions. News re Slovenia 
on Akron TV. Channel 23 and twice in the Akron Beacon Journal. 
AMLA - Stan Ziherl said it would be interesting to find out how many will 
respond. Editor just got back from Slovenia. All information will be printed in 
the forthcoming issue of Our Voice.58 Edmund Turk thanked Stan for his 
tremendous help and support and that of his AMLA members. 
KSKJ - Gene Kogovsek suggests that we get the word out to other organisa-
tions from around the country other than Siovenians. Gave the Fraternal 
Statistics Booklet to Joe Valencic so that all 100 fraternals in the Ohio Fraternal 
Congress can be contacted. 
SAC - Stane Kuhar the SAC is trying to get a program together where they 
would co-ordinate something for Northeast Ohio either August 4th or 25th. This 
gathering would be held at the Siovenska PristavaS9 and they would invite Dr. 
Millonig to give the Washington perspective. They sent out about 2,000 request 
letters. Their feeling is that the best opportunity to get to Washington legislators 
would be through Senator Dole's60 office. Need to push President Bush to make 
some decisions. Our Congressmen are getting many calls. If support does not 
come from Ohio, Rep. Sangmeister'\1 of Joliet will bring the resolution to the 
floor. John Vidmar62 and Joze Bernik,63 both of Chicago will also help. 
* * * 
58 Poluradno glasilo AMLA 
59 Krai, ki .so ga v scdcmdcsctih ictih odkupili in zgradili 7.3 potrcbe svojcga dru2:enja p()lili~ni emigranti. 
60 Bob (Robert) Joseph l)olc, mjen leta 1923, republikanski senator iz Kanzasa. Clan prcdstavniskega donut v 
Ictih 1951-1953; kongrcsnik v Icrih 1961-1969; republikanski kandidat za podpredscdnika v letu 1988; izvoljcn 
v semi[ leta 1968, ponovno izvoljcn let:.! 1974, 1980 in 1986 in 1992; \lodja rcpuhlikanccv v 5Cnatu v Ictih 1985-
1997; prcdscdnik v komitcju l.a finance in v spccialncm komitcju za varnost in sodc[oV'<tnjc V Evropi; rcpuh-
likanski kandidat za predsednisko nominadjo v lelU 1988 in rcpublikanski kandidat za predscdnika ZDA leta 
1996. 
61 George E. Sangmeisler; mjen lela 1931 v joliclU v eni izmed znanih slovcnskih naslebin v blillni Chic<lga, 
demok •• lt'iki kongresnik i1. Ill inoisa., pravnik, leta 1957 diplomiral na Elmhurst Collegeu, 1960 najohn Marshall 
law School. V svoji karieri je bil 7.aposlen rudi kot sodnik in drlavni pravdnik v jolietu. Politicno kariem jc 
zatclleta 1972 7. i7.volirvijo v prl.'<istavnBki dom dr1:ave Illinois. V letih 1976 do leta 1987 je bi! tlan scnala dr1:ave 
Illinois. leta 1988 je poslal kongrcsnik in bil ponovno izvoljen 6. 2. 1990. Med drugim je bil tudi clan centra:ta 
ckonomski fazvoj jolieta in okrolja will. 
02 john Vidmar; mjen leta 1952 v Clevctandu, dip]omiral iz politicnih vcd in sociologije in polilicnih vcd na 
Cleveland State Univcrsity lcta 1974, magistriral iz politicnih ved na University of Chicago leta 1976, doktorirat 
iz "Public Affairs- na University of Illinois, Urbana Illinois leta 1985. Po dokloralu je bi! v letih 1985-1988 konwl-
lant Metropolitan PLanning Council of Chicago, potem konzultant NBC News Election Unit v letih 1986-1988. 
V IClih med 1988 in 1990 je bit vodja sku pine za racunovodstvo v Public Sector Research Group, Market Facts, 
Inc. Od lela 1991 je clan komileja za r.u:unalnisko zbiranje podatkov v okviru ameriskega urada za Ijudsko slel-
ie. 
63 joze M. Bcrnik; rojen leta 1924 v Skofji Loki. Studiral na vet univer.lah (Rim, 1946-47; Madrid, 1948-50; 
42 Zopisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
PSWA - Joyce Plemel64 reported that Fran Maurie wrote a letter which will be 
sentto all members for them, in turn, to send to their respective legislator. Joyce 
also attended the Waterloos Pensioner's meeting, where Don Gorjup65 spoke in 
behalf of the UAS to have all members sign the petitions that were distributed. 
SNPJ - Betty Rotar re ported that both Joe Evanish and Grace Doerk,66 
National president and National Secretary respectively, were on National TV in 
Chicago. She also passed around the latest issue of the Prosveta which had 
much information about Slovenia and the efforts being made in the United 
States to help. She also reported that 3 sheets of petitions were signed at Friday's 
Fish Fry at SWH67 and another 10 sheets of petitions were signed at the SNPJ 
Farm on Sunday, July 7th. Petitions will be taken to the SNPJ Recreation Center 
in Enon Valley for signatures also. 
AMERICAN HOME - Jim Debevec just returned from vacation. Out West, 
nobody is interested in the events other than the Slovenes in their respective 
communities. Councilman O'Malley donating 5" - 2 Column space for whatever 
Jim wants to print. Paul Barborich68 of indianapolis sent him a clipping from 
the Indianapolis Star which had a derogatory cartoon depicting Slovenes and 
Croations (sic!) as being "a bunch of rubes"". a woman with a babushka, etc. 
This type of portrayal hurts the Slovene people and deserves a letter of protest 
from our Organization. There will be another march in Washington on July 
26th. Croatians and Albanians will be meeting with Senator Dole. The New York 
Times in doing an excellent job of writing about the Slovenia crisis. 
Stane Kuhar reported that tomorrow night on Channel 8 between 5:00 and 
6:00 there will be a program regarding Slovenia with Dr. Gobetz and John 
Hocevar participating. 
* * * 
rHinois, 1953, Chic<lgo Kent College of law; podiplomski studij mcdnarodncga pnlY'd Oct univezi v Chicagu, 
1962, podiplomski ~tudii managcmcnta na univcrl.i v BosTonu, 1970). Zasedal visokc funkeije (podprcdscdnik, 
tajnik in svetov<I]cc) v Abbot International LId v ]el ih 1965-1989. Eden ad uSlanoviteljev dncvnika Slovcnc(;, 
rodprcdscdnik (1991-1992) in prcdscdnik Slovcnskcga svctovncga kongrcsa. 
i14 Clanica glavnega odbor<l Progrcsivnih slovenskih 1-eoa Amerikc. 
65 Clan odbora za sport pr gl<lvncm odboru SNI~ , prcdsednik odbora za vzdrhvanje 7.ab::l.vi~tncga parka v 
Kirtlandu pri Clcvclandu in prcdsenik clcvelandske ~portnc lige pri SNPj ref <"Ian odbora Siovenskcga 
dclavskega doma v Clcvelandu. 
66 V obdobju dcloV'.mja UAS je bila nacionalna sekretarka SNPJ, 
67 Siovenski de[::I.vski dom je bi! zgr::l.jcn leta 1927 kot zbiralisce levo oricntir.:mih clcvelandskih Slovcnccv. 
68 ROjen Icta 1959 v Indianapolisu. Diplomiral na Purdue University. Aklivcn clan Kranjsko- slovcnskc katoliskc 
jednote. 
z 
Razprave in gradjyo Ljubljang 1999 st. 34 43 
Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 17th at 7:00 P.M. at the 
AMLA Home Office. Meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
44 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA 7/17/91 
1. APPROVAL MINUTES 7/17/ 91 
Zapjsnikj "United Americans for Siovenio" 
2. NEW MEMBERSHIP-FRANCES AND JANE S. LAUSCHE FOUNDATION 
3. REPORT ON MEETING WITH DENNIS ECKART, MC69 
4. CROATIAN RALLY, WASH. D. C. 7/26/91 
5. AUTHORIZATION FOR PURCHASE OF PREPAID POST CARDS 
6. REPORTS 
7. NEW BUSINESS 
8. DATE & TIME NEXT MEETING 
9. ADJOURNMENT 
MINUTES OF THE UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
WEDNESDAY, JULY 17, 1991 
AMLA HOME OFFICE 
The meeting was called to order at 7:35 P.M. by Chairman Edmund Turk. 
Betty Rotar read the minutes of the last meeting; with a few minor corrections, 
they were unanimously approved as corrected. Edmund Turk complimented 
Betty Rotar on her excellent comprehensive minutes and all reciprociated with 
a round of applause. 
Absent from this meeting were: Joyce Plemel (PSWA), Jean Krizman (Red 
Cross), Stane Kuhar (SAC), Eugene Kogovsek (KSKJ), Father Boznar (SI. Vitus), 
Helen Konkoy (Federation of Slovenian Homes) and Karl Bonutti (Primorski 
Club). Joseph Baskovic represented KSKJ at this meeting. 
* * * 
69 Rojen leta 1950 v Eudidu, Ohio, pravnik in clan prcdslavn i~kega doma ameriSkega kongrcsa (198H993). 
? 
Rgzprave in gradivQ Ljubljgna 1999 St. 34 45 
Edmund Turk suggested having Jim Debevec represent the Lausche 
Foundation on this Ad Hoc Committee. Motion by Ann Opeka, second by Cirila 
Kermavner, we approve. Motion passed. 
Edmund Turk reported that Stanley Ziherl wrote a letter which was sent to 
Anna Mae Mannion, 70 1st v.P. of the Ohio Fraternal Congress asking them to 
pass a resolution supporting Slovenia's declaration for independence. The 
Ohio Fraternal Congress represents 500,000 members. An attempt will also be 
made to present a similar letter/ resolution at the National Fraternal Congress to 
see if they too would support recognition of Slovenia's independence. The 
National Fraternal Congress represents 9,000,000 members. 
Edmund Turk also reported on the meeting which was held on Sunday, July 
14th at the AMLA office with Congressman Dennis Eckart present. Dennis is in 
contact with representatives in Slovenia everyday. The important thing is that 
we have to get the President'S ear since he is the only person that has the 
authority to recognise Slovenia as an independent nation. We have to keep 
calling and writing into Washington. He stressed that the phone calls/ letters 
have to continue so they make an impact. Dr. Rupel will be coming to the U.S.A. 
this week and will open up the way for the Slovenian delegation. He will appear 
on CNN on Friday at 3:00 P.M. Someone should approach Governor Voinovich 71 
and the State Chairman of the Republican Party for them to use their influence. 
Edmund Turk reported that Governor Voinovich stopped at his home the other 
evening and assured him he is doing everything he can. Rep. Eckart indicated a 
resolution will be presented in Congress by Co-sponsors Lantos72 and 
Sangmeister who are on the Congressional Foreign Relations Committee and 
therefore, have more clout. 
Edmund Turk also reported that he received a phone call from England this 
afternoon from a gentleman by the name of Keith Miles who is married to a 
Slovene. He arranged a meeting with Peterle and John Major. Also arranged to 
have past Prime Minister Thatcher73 call President Bush who talked to him 
about Slovenia. 
* * * 
70 Po poklicu gospodinjOl. j prva podprcdscdnica Ohijskcga fratcrnalisticncga kongrcsa, organizacijc, ki 
zdruiuje bratskc podpornc organizadje v re; ameri~ki zvezni drhvi. 
71 George Voinovich; rojen lela 1936 v Clcvclandu. Mati Siovcnka. Studir.al na Ohio University in 5i pridobil 
doktorat pr.wnih znanosti na Ohio State University. nil '-upan Clcvelanda v Ictih 1979-1990 in guvcrncr drz<lvc 
Ohio v Ictih 1991 do 1998, Izvoljcn za zvczncga scnatorja iz dr1.ave Ohio na listi rcpublikanskc stranke. 
72 lllOmas Peter LantOS; mjen leta ]928 v Budimpdti, dcmokrdtski kongrcsnik iz Kalifornije v obdobju 1981 
do danes,. V Zdru~ene drlavc je p ri~e l leta 1947 na ~Iudije. Doktorat v Berkcleyu, Kali fornija. Profesor 
ekonomijc; televizijsk i komenlalor; ekonomski in zunanjepolilicni svelOV"d[ec v senatu Zdruzcn ih drlav; dele-
gat na dcmokral~ki nadonalni konvcnciji leta 1976. 
73 Margareth Thatcher, 1979-80 prcdscdnica vlade Zdru1cncga kraljcstva Vclikc Britanijc in Scvcrnc Irskc. 
46 lapisniki NUoited Americans for Slovenia" 
The Croations (sic!) are planning another rally in Washington D.C. on July 25 
and 26 and would welcome Siovenians to join them. The Croations (sic!) are 
getting support from Senator Dole74 because he has a Croation (sic!) woman 
who works in his office. Ann Opeka gave a notice to Edmund Turk re this same 
rally. This note was passed around the bus that took them to and from Enon 
Valley last Sunday. John Pestotnik wondered how effective this rally will be; do 
they have permits to attend; most of the Senators and Representatives leave 
Washington on Thursday or Friday for the weekend. After much discussion, it 
was agreed that both Tony Petkovsek and Jim Debevec would publicize this 
rally, suggesting that any interested party can contact Mr. Nogalo, Tele: 951-5191 
and leave it up to each individual who wishes to go. Cost will be $ 20.00/person. 
We discussed having something to pass out to people to show/ send their 
support. Betty Rotar passed out postcards which were given to her from the 
SNPJ Western Federation. These postcards were prepaid and carried a message 
to President Bush to support Slovenia's and for Croatia's independence; there 
was space for the name and address of the sender. Betty Rotar moved, Joe 
Baskovic second we have 5,000 pre-printed postcards with a similar message 
that can be passed around to all our organisations asking for support. A ques-
tion on how we can purchase these cards brought a response from our 
Chairman that we do have $ 1,300 in our treasury. Betty Rotar then presented 
several envelopes that had come to the SWH, each with donations. Upon open-
ing the envelopes, another $ 150.00 was noted, which brings the total to $ 1,450. 
On a vote for the motion, the motion passed, Joe Valencic was asked to come 
up with the appropriate message for these postcards. We discussed mass mail-
ing to lodges, organisations etc. Using the USS Slovene Directory75 as a source 
for names, addresses, etc. 
Discussion continued on the need for funds. Although we agreed at our past 
meetings that we can not collect funds for Slovenia since our purpose clause 
explicitly states that our mission is to urge the US. Government to recognise the 
Republic of Slovenia, it is imperative that we do collect funds to resolve our mis-
sion. However, we have to be very specific since this Ad Hoc Committee repre-
sents a cross-section of Siovenia/ Cleveland/ Ohio/ US.A. member collectively. It 
has to be approached as a "fund raiser" stating that the monies collected will be 
used exclusively for lobbying purposes and to keep our people aware of what 
is happening in Washington, here, as well as in Slovenia. Father Kumse was 
••• 
74 Bob Dole, glop. ('jo 
75 Dolgan Cecilia: S]m'(!nian National Directory. 1st Edition. (Cleveland: United Sloven ian Society, 1984). 
7 
Rgzpraye in grodiyo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 47 
asked to explain why SAC76 funds were going to be directed to the Siovenian 
Society of SI. Mohor (Mohorjeva Druzba op. M. K.) in Celovec. Austria. Father 
Kumse replied that the Mohorjeva Druzba has a long tradition of helping peo-
ple in times of disaster. They have the assurance that funds will be used for 
humanitarian. medical supplies. rebuilding the lives of refugees. etc. The reason 
the money is sent to Celovec is that in the event funds are Itfrozen" in Slovenia, 
they will be able to get help thru Celovec. 
Tony Petkovsek again stated that he would be willing to have a Radiothron 
on WELW within the next several weeks and that the money collected could be 
used by this Ad Hoc Committee. He suggested haVing a 4-Hour Radiothron on 
Saturday. August 3rd from 12:00 to 4:00. The radio station will be willing to 
donate free air time; the trunk lines from Kollander World Travel; all we need 
are volunteers to help answer calls and list the donors. This would actually fall 
within "Old World Festival" Week; However. the Saturday afternoon is a slow 
time for the Festival and this might be an excellent time to do this. All were in 
agreement. Publicity will begin at once on radio. the American Home. Our 
Voice77 and any other publication that may be printed within the next two 
weeks. The statement issued should be identical for all media. 
With this decision made. John Pestotnik suggested that Father Kumse might 
be willing to act as Treasurer. Father Kumse accepted and Joe Baskovic agreed 
to help him. Checks/money should be sent in c/o Edmund Turk. Chairman. 
United Americans for Slovenia. 6411 St. Clair Avenue. Suite #8. Cleveland, OH 
44103. 
John Pestotnik suggested a follow-up promo letter that should go out to all 
areas of the United States. We should also push for interviews in the United 
States. We should also push for interviews with the Associated Press. CNN; also 
Dick RuSS7B on TV; Tony on WELW;Jim Debevecvia American Home and other 
news media. 
Joe Valencic was asked how long he thought it would take to get out a solic-
itation package including a press release. imprinted envelopes (both outer and 
return) and anything else that should be included in sending out information to 
all organisations in the U.S.A. Joe felt that it would take approximately one week 
and felt that by next Thursday or Friday it could be done. He was given the "go-
* * * 
76 Slovene Amcric;an Coun(;iI; en .. od sl()vensko-amcri~kih organizacij, ust<tnovljcna 1990. 
77 Ghlsilo American Mutual Life Association (AMlA.) 
78 Napovcdovalcc in politii:ni komemator na cnl ad g[avnih develandskih te]cvizijski mrc1_ Po obeh starsih jc 
hi] slovcnskcga porckla. 
48 Zapisniki "United Americgns for Siovenio" 
ahead" by all in attendance. Volunteers will again be called to help stuff 
envelopes and address same. This will again be done at the AMLA office. 
John Pestotnik also mentioned the possibility of having the new Slovenia 
flag made and use it as a "fund raiser". He has taken the new flag and checked 
on prices. However, he has to wait and see how much it will cost because of the 
silk screening. The approximate cost at this point in time is $23.00 for a 3' x 5' 
flag. The flags would have to be sold for no less than $ 30.00, but John will get 
the actual figures for our next meeting. The general consensus was that we 
should not go in the "flag selling" business because we could not make enough 
money for all the work involved. However, we will make our final decision at 
our next meeting. 
Our next meeting will be on Thursday, July 25th at 7:30 P.M. here in the 
AMLA Home Office. The meeting was adjourned at 9.40 P.M. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
7 
Razprove in grgdivo Ljubljana 1999 St. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA 7/25/91 
1. READING AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF 7/17/91 
2. MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 
3. 3. REPORT JOE VALENCIC, PRINTING & MAILING 
4. REPORT TONY PETKOVSEK, FUND-RAISING, PRESS RELEASE ETC., 
5. STAN KUHAR, MR. MILLONIG BRIEFING 
6. NEW INFORMATION & REPORTS 
7. NEW BUSINESS 
8. DATE & TIME OF NEXT MEETING 
9. ADJOURNMENT 
MINUTES OF THE UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
THURSDAY, JULY 25, 1991 
AMLA HOME OFFICE 
<19 
The meeting was called to order at 7:35 P.M. by Edmund Turk. The follOWing 
members of the Committee were absent: Joyce Plemel (PSWA), Cirila 
Kermavner (SWU), Jean Krizman (Red Cross), Eugene Kogovsek (KSKJ), Father 
Kumse (St. Mary's), Father Rebol (St. Lawrence) Helen Konkoy (Federation of 
Siovenian Homes), Martin Kumse (Barberton) and Tony Petkovsek (Radio 
Advisor). Fran Maurie represented PSWA at this meeting. 
Betty Rotar read the minutes of the July 17th meeting. Stane Kuhar pointed 
out that on Pg. 3, 9th line. The word "lobbying" should be changed to the 
follOWing phrase: "exclusively for the promotion and recognition of an 
independent Slovenia by the United States of America". This will clarify our 
stand. Since there were no other additions or corrections, the minutes were 
accepted as read. 
50 Zopisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
Edmund Turk asked if there were any other requests for membership to this 
Committee, such as Singing Societies, etc. There were no requests made at this 
meeting. Edmund once again expressed his gratitude to Stanley Ziherl of AMLA 
for their hospitality in letting us use the facilities of the AMLA Home Office. 
Joe Valencic will have our mailing package ready to go by this coming 
Saturday. The mailing will include a cover letter from our Committee, a Petition 
for the Recognition for the Republic of Slovenia, a flyer regarding the Radiothon 
for United Slovenes for America on August 3rd, a pre-paid post card addressed 
to Pres. Bush and a preadressed return envelope for the donation. In addition 
to the volunteers from this committee, both John Pestotnik and Father Boznar 
offered to contact people who will be willing to help. Volunteers should come 
at 10:00 A.M. to type the labels and after 12:00 Noon for "stuffing" the envelopes. 
John Pestotnik reported on his findings re the Sloven ian Flag. Cost will be 
around $ 20.00 for a 3' x 5' flag, with a selling price of $ 30.00. He ordered 100 
of them. He also had pins which will be selling for $ l.00 each and hats that will 
be either $ 5.00 or $ 6.00 depending on the style. These purchases were all 
financed by the United Slovene Society. After repayment to the USS, all pro-
ceeds realised will be given to this Committee. 
John also reported on the Radiothon scheduled for Saturday, August 3rd. 
Volunteers will be needed for that day. The Radio Club members will also be 
there. John suggested that the treasurer Father Kumse or his assistant Joe 
Baskovic should be there so that after the checks are audited and announced 
over the air, they can be depOSited immediately. Tony Petkovsek did send out 
promotional material regarding the Radiothon; however, printing the informa-
tion on the back side of our mailing packet will increase publicity greatly. All 
volunteers should be at Kollander World Travel (where Tony's show is broad-
cast) by 11.00 A.M. 
Stane Kuhar asked if any consideration was given to where any excess funds 
might be allocated when Slovenia is recognised as an Independent Republic 
and this Ad Hoc Committee's work is completed? Discussion ensued on exist-
ing rules for tax exempt organisations. This collective body will make the deci-
sion when the time comes. Right now, we have managed to purchase 5,000 post-
cards and plan to make a mass mailing of approXimately 1,000 pieces of mail. 
However, we are hoping that other organisations may "take the bull by the 
horn" and continue the campaign by ordering their own postcards and mailing 
to their respective membership. In this way the impact will be much greater for 
our leaders in Washington. 
-
b 
Rozprove in aradiyo Ljubljana 1999 sl. 34 51 
John Pestotnik is also negotiating for a big truck for the "Old World Festival" 
Parade on Sunday, August 4th. He plans to use SNPJ, AMLA, KSKJ and AFU79 
banners. If he can get a banner for the United Americans for Slovenia, he will do 
so: however, time is of essence. All in attendance were in agreement that we 
should identify ourselves. As to the representatives on the Float, all will depend 
on the conditions prevailing in Slovenia. If all seems to be fairly calm, he may 
invite musicians to perform; otherwise a more sombre atmosphere will be 
apparent. 
Stane Kuhar reported on the itinerary of Dr. Peter Millonig for this weekend. 
A news conference is planned for 1:30 P.M. A meeting with the UAS will be at 
3:30-3:45 P.M. and a meeting with the SAC at 5:00 P.M. On Sunday he will be at 
the Slovenska Pristava where the SI. Vitus Slovenian School will be sponsoring 
their annual picnic. Dr. Millonig is fluent in English, Slovene and German. He is 
a graduate of the Slovenska Gymnasia in Celovec and the University of Vienna 
where he attained an attorney's degree. He has been in the U.S.A. for 10 years, 
owns an Import/ Export business in McLean, VA and is the Editor of "Celovski 
Zvon". Meeting with this Committee will give us another dimension and sense 
of what is going on in Washington. Dr. Millonig is the official representative 
from Slovenia having been nominated and elected from the Executive 
Committee of Slovenia and works on a voluntary basis without reimbursement. 
All members of this Committee were invited to attend the Saturday afternoon 
meeting. 
Father Boznar reported that he has a small group of about eight (8) persons 
who are willing to hel p whenever needed. He would like to know if we have any 
plans coming up where he could utilise these people. John reminded him that 
it is important that we continue having the petitions and post cards that are 
circulating collected so that they can be sent to Washington. Father Boznar then 
suggested lhal a question and answer type interview by Tony Petkovsek during 
the Radiothon might be a good way for people to familiarise themselves with 
this Committee and the work that we are doing. Karl Bonutti reminded us that 
the expenses for achieving our objective will not be small; this process of 
getting recognition will be very costly. At the present, everyone on the 
Committee is doing a good job; however, we have to go out of our own groups 
and approach different people so the concentration of effort is not only coming 
from Northeast Ohio but from all across the U.S.A. 
* * * 
79 American Fraternal Union; Ameriska bratska zveza, slovenska fr-.nernalistitna organizacija s se<.lezem v Elyu 
v Minncsoli. 
52 Zopisniki HUnited Americgns for Slovenia" 
Edmund Turk reported that twenty-two (22) buses will be leaving Cleveland 
tonight bound for Washington- another five (5) from Chicago and a bus from 
New York as well as from Sharon, Pa. This is a part of the Croation '(sicO contin-
gent reported on at last Thursday's meeting and announced over the air via 
Tony's Polka Show and thru Jim Oebevec via the American Home Weekly news-
paper. 
Under new business, Betty Rotar invited all members to the Farewell Party 
which will be given in honour of our departing Yugoslav Consul General, 
Matjaz Janear. This party will be held at the SWH on Waterloo on Monday, July 
29th from 7:30 to 9:30 P.M. A donation of $ 10.00 person will be collected at the 
door. 
Betty Rotar also suggested the possibility of sponsoring a fundraiser at the 
SNPJ Farm with a Labor Day picnic. As previously noted, several orchestras are 
willing to donate their time for this worthy cause. The suggestion was put "on 
hold". 
Edmund Turk read a letter sent to State Rep. Ron SustarBO from Joan E. 
Colbert, Co-Ordinator for Intergovernmental Affairs, Bureau of Public Affairs 
wherein she alluded to the fact that each of the Republics that make up 
Yugoslavia are free to secede, according to the last Four (4) constitutions 
governing their country, as long as the proper process is followed. 
Jim Oebevc reported that he printed some highlights from an article which 
appeared in "Oelo" stating that there is support in the U.S.A. for Slovenia's sov-
ereignty. Karl Bonutti also quoted, regarding a rather critical article by the 
Editorial Board of the Washington Post, wherein they state that Europe is soon 
to see a new Nation. It appears that in Washington now, the public is accepting 
the reality. Similar stories were also carried in U.S. World Report and the July 
20th issue of "Oelo". The army is already moving out and things are moving in 
the right direction, but we still have much work. Patrick BuchananBI wrote a 
strong commentary on foreign policy directed at Pres. Bush. Since he is non-
ethnic, this carries a lot of weight. 
* * * 
80 Ronald). Sustar; rojen leta 1942 v Cleveiandu, Ohio. Doktor pravnih ved s Case Western Reserve Law School, 
Cleveland, Ohio (1967). Odvcmik. CIan prcdstavni~kcga doma drlave Ohio od leta 1981do lela 1991. 
81 P'<lIrick Joseph Buchanan; rojen lela 1938; eden izmed najbolj znanih amcriskih 1:urnalislov, prcdscdni~ki 
svctOV'.dcc, piscc stcvilnih knjig in voditel; tclcvizijskih programov (med drugim tudi CNN-ovcga Crossfire ter 
moderator Capitol Gang; glavni urednik Newsletter PGD from the Right v letih 1990.1991); leta 1992 kandidat 
Z<t rcpublikansko nominacijo Z<I. prcdsednika Zdruzenih dr7.av. 
t 
R 
Ro;prave in grodivo Ljubljgna 1999 SI. 34 53 
Senators Dole and Metzenbaum have put a resolution on the floor. Mike 
Polensek sent a fax stating that a resolution was introduced at a committee 
meeting and passed. It will now be introduced at City Council this coming 
Monday and there seems to be no reason to believe that it will not pass unani-
mously. 
John Pestotnik reported that his daughter Linda called and told of a tornado 
in DomZale and hail as big as "golf balls" in another section of Slovenia. This 
on ly adds to their already troubled woes. 
A short discussion ensued regarding the state of their economy. We touched 
briefly on their inflation and the value of the dinar. We also discussed the 
possibility of their getting enough credit from the World Bank to be able to 
survive as an independent nation. 
John Pestotnik moved, Stane Kuhar second we adjourn the meeting at 9:07 
P.M. The next meeting will be Thursday, August 1st at 7:30 P.M. at the AMLA 
Home Office. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Sec. 
SA 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA 8/1/91 
1. APPROVAL MINUTES OF 7/ 25/ 91 
2. NEW MEMBERSHIP 
Zapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
3. RADITHON REPORT TONY PETKOVSEKJOHN PESTOTNIK 
4. REPORTS 
5. NEW BUSINESS 
6. TIME & PLACE NEXT MTG. 
7. ADJOURNMENT 
MINUTES 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
THURSDAY AUGUST 1, 1991 
The meeting was called to order at the AMLA Home Office by Chairman 
Edmund Turk at 7;35 P.M: 
No roll call was taken however, Franc. Mauric replaced Betty Rotar for this 
meeting as recording secretary, Frank Sega sat in for Stane Kuhar and Joe Lach8' 
for Helen Konkoy. 
Frances Mauric read the minutes of the previous meeting and after a few 
typographical errors, a motion was made by John Pestotnik and seconded by 
Stan Ziherl to accept as read. 
Ed Polsak83 had expressed a desire to have the Sloven ian Singing Societies 
represented on this Committee. Was agreed by all that Ed Polsak should repre-
sent all of the groups. 
* * * 
82 Clan odbora Fcdcradjc S]ovcnskih n.rodnih domov v Clcvclandu. 
83 Edwin Polsak;' rojcn leta 1921 v Clevelandu, pevovodja in organizator slovcnskih pevskih drus!cv v 
Clcvclandu. 
c 
n 
Razprave in g(adiva Liubljanq 1999 sl. 34 55 
Joe Valencic to put this group on an amended le tter head. 
Tony Petkovsek reported that all is in pretty much good order to go on the 
radiothron this coming Saturday during the annual E. 185th Street Fair. He has it 
a ll pretty well covered by all of the Sloven ian publications and hopes more from 
the Plain Dealer H4 He is expecting the following to call in during the broadcast: 
Governor Voinovich, Congressman D. Eckart, Mayor Lynch from Euclid, Ronald 
Suster State Rep.,H5 Mike Polensek,8o Cleveland Councilman, Corrine Leskovar87 
from a Chicago radio program. Hoping that this will give considerable credence 
to our work. Tony has faxed a letter to Charles Kuralt,88 a descendant from no 
less than Slovenian nobility and has expressed interest in his heritage. 
Edmund Turk has been in touch with Kieth (sic!) Miles89 from London, 
England. Kieth describes himself as .working for the Embassy in Waiting. A 
medium between the British and the Slovenians. Said that there are some 2000 
Siovenians in England. He may call Mr. Rupel in Slovenia and have him call here, 
hopefully. Said that Mr. Peterle has talked to Mrs Thatcher who sti ll has some 
clout in England. Tony would like to have Ed Turk there for the time to explain 
to people what is going on in Slovenia and what this organization is all about 
and of course why we need financial help. 
Ed Turk also to air express all pertaining articles to active and interested 
Mark Ryavec90 from California and who is reputed to also to have some friends 
with clout. 
John Pes[Qtnik,91 chairman of promotion, has items for sale. New Sloven ian 
flags that wi ll sell for $ 30.00. cost us $ 20.00. Caps to sell for $ 6.00, these have 
logo on front. And badges selling for $ 1.00. People donating $ 1000.00 will get 
••• 
84 Ghl.vni clevcl'lQ(.b;k i loblni casopis z naklado preko milijona izvcx.lov. 
85 Ronald J. SusieI'; mjen ICla 1942 v Clevelandu, studir.!1 na Adalberl College, Western Reserve University 
(1964) in na C:lse Wesfern I.aw School (1967, dokcor prava). Odvelnik. Poslanec v zakonodajni zbornici drl.avc 
Ohio in sodnik clcvclandskega mcstncga S<X!isCoJ.. 
B6 Michael D. Polensek; rojen leta 1949 v Clevelandu. Studiral indusldjski managcmcnet na Cuyahooga 
Community Colll!gc, Cleveland, Ohio. Clan clevelandskega mestnega svcta 0<./ lela 1977 dal je. Nekdanji pod-
predsednik in c;lan SNP) loZe 1/ 142 v Clcvclandu. Clan KSK), AMLA. 
87 Lcskovar Corrine; lastnica in urcdnica slovenskega radijskega programa v Chicagu. 
88 Charle.~ Kuralt; dolgo]clni polili61i komentator ene od treh nacionalnih tclevizijskih mrez CBS in ,lVtOl" 
.~tcvilnih knjig. Naj med njimi onwnirno Ie knj igo '·Charles Kuralt's America", v bted v poglavju 0 Elyju s ponC)-
som govori 0 svojih sloven.~kih korcninah . 
R9Kcith Miles, angldki zgodovinar, ki sc je posvccal zlasri dogodkom ob koncu druge svctovne vojnc v 
Sioveniji. 
90 Mark I{yavec; rojcn leta 1951 v Santa Monici, California. Diplomiral iz psihologijc na Uniwrsity of California, 
Los Angeles, in magistriral iz urhanih srudij na Occidental Collcgcu v Los Angelesu leta 1978. Delov,1l kot lohist 
v Lo.~ Angclesu. AVlor rcsoludjc Illesta Los Angelesa, ki je podprla ncodvisnost Siovenijc in Hrva.~ke . 
9 1 Odvetnik iz Clcvclanda. 
56 Zgpisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
a flag. Those contributing $ 500.00 will get a cap and all others will get a badge. 
John stresses the importance of everyone getting involved, w riting, calling 
and talking and what have you. Would particularly like to have more young 
folks take an interest He feels strongly that if Slovenia fails, our cultural activi-
ties here will also suffer. We have much to lose. 
John outlined the work force and line of duty for the radiothon on Saturday. 
Tony Petkovsek92 reported that the Croations (sic!) collected locally in one 
night, a total of $ 600,000. No small amount. 
Reported here that we have already received some very notable donations. 
$ 1,000,00 from Andy Cashen, who is a Siovenian, a proud one, businessman 
from Lake County, $1,000,00 from the United Siovenian Society, and $ 500,00 
from the National Board of the P.S.W.A. 
Joe Valencic has done a remarkable job in getting the mailing necessities. 
950 PCS. of card, letters and envelopes for the cost of $ 950,00 and the printing 
cost $ 248,00. Joe also did a great job in emceeing the A: the fast put together 
farewell party for former Yugoslav Council (sic!), Matjas Janear. He had pro-
claimed his loyalty to Slovenia, The Federal Government then demanded that he 
return to Yugoslavia. 
Decided that Joe Valencic is to order 10,000 more post cards and there 
should be a place noting the name and address for people signing these. This 
an urgent need and Jean Krizman and Mr. Sega are to look into availability of 
immediate printing. John can use them for this weekend. Ann Opeka passed 
out 600 cards this past week. Franc Mauric is going to the Midwest and will 
attend the Slovene Fest in Urbana, Illinois. This is always attended by thousands 
of people. And she would hope to have some ready then. Perhaps sell some 
badges also. Suggested that perhaps we can pay someone overtime to get these 
cards printed immediately. 
John Pestotnik asked Fr. Kumse to audit at the Radiothon, however, Fr. 
explains that Saturdays are a busy time for priests. He cannot put off wedding 
etc. Stan Ziherl volunteered to stand in for Fr. Kumse. 
Jean Krizman hoped that we could reach some big radio or T.v. station and 
get a dialog going. Tony is doing a great job, but his daily program does not 
* * * 
92 Tony Pctkovsck; rojen leta 1941 v Clcvclandu v Ohiu; napovedoV'.dcc na etnitnem radijskclll pmgramu v 
Clevelandu fer lastnik nl(Jijskc postajc "Pctkovsek S()mic~ ter podprcdscdnik potovalnc agcnc:ije "Kollandcr 
World TrAvcl. 
b 
Rozprgve in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 it 34 57 
reach far enough. Jean says that we need someone on public relations. Perhaps 
we should contact Sue Gorisek from Public Radio. We have able people here to 
work on such a committee. Jim Debevec,93 who is already doing beyond 
expectancy, Joe Valencic and Tony Hiti. Edmund Turk said that he would put 
together such a committee. He suggested that perhaps Jim Debevec would 
again print a big promo issue and send it out widely as possible. Will be inter-
esting see what kind of monies will come in. Jim Debevec announced, to 
everyone's great surprise that the phone call to Washington costs only .23! 
Suggested that someone contact the Senior Citizens and explain all of this to 
them. Someone who can talk strongly and forcefully. That can instil the desire 
to help in the apathetic people. The .23 phone call should be an incentive. 
Jean Krizman also suggested that other parish, not just the Slovenian ones, 
be contacted. Found out that there has already been some that showed concern. 
Edmund Turk asked if perhaps we have to ask Bishop Pevec94 if he is open to 
above suggestion. 
Tony Petkovsk said that it is very imperative to stress that none of these (this 
committee) is being paid for their work! 
John Pestotnik also said that perhaps it may be necessary to join forces with 
other nationalities for this fight for recognition by our Government. 
Stan Ziherl suggested that we have some government people attend our 
meeting. 
Some discussion on reputed disunity in Slovenia. What can we do to suggest 
to them "please try to stay united until goals are achieved" at least. Maybe send 
a letter to Mr. Rupel, Tony Hiti suggested sending a letter in form of a congratu-
latory message on their unity. Also letters to Mr. Peterle and Mr. Kuean. 
Suggested that our President certainly would not be inclined to support them if 
they are not united. However, Mr. Turk insisted that this is not our concern. Our 
purpose here is being united in our goal to encourage our country leaders in 
supporting Slovenia's fight for democracy. Even the money aspect is not the 
foremost. We must reach everyone possible. 
Professor Karl Bonutti wished to discuss the letter received from Phylis 
Kaminsky in Washington D. C. Re: Congressman (SiC!) Dole's amendment and 
his sympathy to our cause. This amendment will offer the monies that are now 
* * * 
93 Urcdnik in lastnik "Amcri~kc domovinc" 
94 EdYl'drd A. Pevec, mjen lela 1925 v Clcvclandu. Doklorirai leta 1964 na Weslern Reserve University, 
Cleveland, Ohio. Posvcccn v duhovnika leta 1950. 1982 imcnOV'.m za pomozncga ~kora clcvclandske skofiiC. 
I 
58 Zgpisniio:.i "United Americans for Slovenia" 
frozen to be distributed to all of the Yugoslav Republics and not to the Federal 
Government in Belgrade. This will no doubt pass both house and seemingly, 
Pres. Bush could do no less but pass it also. Economy in Slovenia is bleak 
indeed. They have no currency, but the dinar, and this is not very desirous to say 
the least. Also discussion on who is capable on ruling the new Slovenia. Rumors 
on disunity are a natural process of evolution. This is democracy at work. Some 
people point to our Civil war. But Mr. Bonutti points out that there is a decided 
difference between the two. There is also fear that the Yugoslav Army will return 
unless we get the recognition from our Government and some of the European 
countries. Cirila Kermavner (SWU) reported that she had read that Mr. Tudjman 
has put 2 Serbs in his cabinet. This is good and wise. 
Again, Mr. Turk asked individual organisations to expand on our work, Gene 
Kogovsek reported from K.S.K.]. that theirs is us already in the making. 
Ann Opeka moved to close this discussion. 
Professor Bonutti announced that there will be a Slovenian History 
Professor at the Cleveland State. Teaching and lecturing on Slovenian 
Prospective teachings. Using his lecture to prepare a book in Sloven ian. This 
will begin at the end of the September for the following quarter. [ of the stu-
dents are Sloven ian and Prof. Bonutti would hope for more to sign up. Karl 
Bonutti also noted that everyone on Adria Airlines speak Sloven ian and sounds 
impressive. 
NOTE: Saturday on August 3. From 11:30 to 4:00 P.M. The Big Push on 
W.E.L.W. 1330 on your dial. 
The next meeting to take place at the same place, The gracious AMLA Home 
Office with gracious Stan Ziher! at the helm, on Wednesday, August 7, 1991. 
This meeting adjourned on motion by Joyce PIe mel, seconded by Joe 
Valencic adjourned at 9:45 P.M. 
P.S. Some 26 people were here on the preceeding Saturday working on the 
first mailing. An impressive number. 
Respectfully submitted 
z 
Rqzpreve in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 59 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEOING OF WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 1991 
This meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund]. Turk at 7:45 P.M., at 
the Home Office of A.M.L.A., 19424 S. Waterloo Rd., Cleveland, Ohio pursuant to 
the notice of this meeting given at the close of the prior meeting of August 1, 
1991. 
Present were: Edmund Turk, Jean Krizman, Eugene Kogovsek, Matt Susei, 
John Pestotnik, James Debevec, Ann Opeka, Stanley Ziherl, Tony Petkovsek, 
Tony Hiti, Stane Kuhar and Joseph Valencic. 
Ann Opeka read the minutes of the prior meeting, and the following cor-
rections were made: on page 2, second sentence, "cost us $ 20.00" was deleted; 
on page 3, seventh sentence, in place of "Public Radio", Ohio MagaZine was the 
correct designation. The minutes were then approved as corrected upon the 
motion of John Pestotnik and seconded by Eugene Kogovsek. 
Stane Kuhar mentioned that he had not yet seen or heard a Treasurer's 
report, and received the explanation that Father Kumse was not able to be 
present this evening and that other expenses were not yet submitted by persons 
or organisations who had expended funds on behalf of our committee. 
John Pestotnik brought up for clarification that one of the callers to the 
Radiothon asked that the funds he had sent to the Slovenian American Council 
be earmarked as a pledge to V.A.S. The details were given to the S.A.c. repre-
sentative, Stane Kuhar. 
Mr. Pestotnik also explained that Edvard Polsak, representing the singing 
societies, was not able to make it tonight due to rehearsals. Ann Opeka 
suggested that we inform the members of the committee that if they or their 
substitutes are unable to attend the meeting, the A.M.L.A. Home Office should 
be called, or others on the committee can relay the information to the meeting. 
Jean Krizman stated that this committee should layout and detail our 
objectives for the future. 
Chairman Turk responded that our public relations sub-committee use all 
the media at our disposal and co-ordinate timetables so that our messages can 
get out in one huge common voice. He reiterated his vision of a coalition of all 
of our Fraternal publications Zarija (sic!) (S.W.W), Prosveta (S.N.P.j., Glasilo 
60 Zopisniki "United Americqns for Slovenia" 
(K.S.K.J., New Era (A.F. V.), Our Voice (A.M.L.A.), Fraternal Voice (W.S.A.) and the 
Sloga publication (all of V.A.S. which representing approximately 125,000 plus 
members) uniting in the common cause of periodic coordinated publishing of 
our information, purpose, and pleas to continue calling and writing to the 
White House and elected officials of our Federal government. 
John Pestotnik suggested planning another mass mailing to include another 
spectacular issue of the Ameriska Domovina. Someone spoke that a spot could 
be reserved in all fraternal publications of around 2 columns by 5 inches. 
Eugene Kogovsek stated that he would recommend same at his National Board 
Meeting of K.S.K.]. James Debevec suggested that it would be very helpful if 
what we could send out to these publications, or any other print media, be 
camera ready, and we may have to hire a graphic arts specialist for illustrative 
purposes to best get our message across to the readers. 
The consensus regarding our recent Radiothon was that it was a very 
successful promotion of our cause and that the donations received or pledged 
exceeded our expectations. Tony Petkovsek expressed his disappointment of 
the lack of coverage by our major local media. 
Chairman Turk, speaking for all of the committee, expressed his and our 
gratitude to Tony Petkovsek and W.E.L.W. for their superb efforts in this 
endeavour. He also remarked in the same manner regarding our debt of 
gratitude to Kollander World Travel Organization for their generosity and 
courtesies extended, - even the pizza supplied after the radiothon. He 
suggested that we recognise these contributions at an appropriate time in the 
near future with a plaque or other suitable permanent memorial of this event. 
Chairman Turk also expounded on some of the highlights of the event such as 
the calls from Bishop Pilla Anthony95, Keith Miles from London, England; Ivo 
Veigl's (sic!)96 call and one of the Slovenian Minister's who called from Ljubljana 
along with Linda Pestotnik; Mr. Ryovec (sic!)97 from California; Dr. Longo (sic!)98 
from New York; and our own Congressman Dennis Eckart, among others. 
John Pestotnik reported on the effectiveness of the U.S.S. booth at the 185th 
St. festival regarding petitions signed, memorabilia purchased and approxi-
* * * 
95 Skofv Clcvcl<mdu. 
96 Rcctc 1vo Vajgl j rojen leta 1943, dipl. ing., do.avni sekrclar na Ministrstvu za zunanje zadcyc rcpublikc 
Slovcnijc, jugosloV'.mski generAlni konzui v Clevelandu v ielih 1986-1990, predstavnik :1.;1 stikc z javnostjo 
Ministrstv'A za wnanjc zadcvc SFR) v lctih 1990-1991, leta 1991 (ob razdru1.itvi Siovenijc z)ugosJavijo) postal 
slovcnski diplomat in leta 1993 slovcnski velcposlanik na Svcdskcm, leta ]9<)8 pOl. v Avstriji. 
97 Pnlvilno Ryavcc. 
98 Prdvilno Lango. 
? 
Razprave in grgdiva Ljubljana 1999 51. 34 61 
mately 1,000 post cards that were signed. He also thanked Matt Susel for bring-
ing a new Sloven ian flag from Europe, without which, replicas could not have 
been made for sale. 
Tony Hiti brought us up to date on the plans that the Alliance of Sloven ian 
Americans are involved in regarding a large labor day demonstration that the 
AFL-CIO will have in Washington D.C., and they are trying to get a group 
together to participate in that demonstration for our cause. He also reported 
that the Alliance will be writing to a Congressional Committee on Human Rights 
regarding the Helsinki Accord violations against Siovenians by the Yugoslav 
government. 
Me Hiti also informed the committee that he was made aware of the fact that 
several persons had received the July 5th letter from the Siovenian American 
Council, postmarked August 3rd, and containing language that was to be delet-
ed from that communication per discussions with Stane Kuhar on July 10th at 
the Waterloo Hall meeting of this committee. Chairman Turk commented on 
this matter, and Mr. Kuhar responded that it might have been coincidental, but 
was not intentional, as the letters were sent from another location where such 
letters, in their original form were located. Chairman Turk asked Me Kuhar to 
look further into this matter and report back at the next meeting. 
Stan Ziherl suggested that the P.R. subcommittee meet to layout plans for 
future conferences with other elected officials of the government. He also 
suggested that each member write their own thoughts on this and present them 
to the committee. 
There was some general discussion on fund ralsmg, and Mr. Kuhar 
suggested using goals and letting the public know what this committee would 
decide to do with any funds that may be in excess of our needs. James Debevec 
suggested a fund raising committee to make our goals known and to solicit 
more con tributions, and buying radio time or advertising in media such as 
U.S.A. Today. Tony Petkovsek suggested plans for some major publicity at such 
future events as the Oktoberfest. 
At 9;35 p.m., upon the motion of Stane Khuha (sic!) and second by Tony Hiti, 
the meeting adjourned. Our next meeting will be held at the A.M.L.A. Home 
Office on Friday, August 16, 1991, at 7:30 p.m. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Stanley G. Ziher! 
62 Zopisniki "United Americans for Sioveniq" 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEmNG OF FRIDAY, AUGUST 16, 1991 
This meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund J. Turk at 7:45 p.m ., 
at the Home Office of A.M.L.A., 19424 S. Waterloo Road, Cleveland, Ohio, pur-
suant to the notice of this meeting given at the close of the prior meeting. 
Present were: Edmund Turk, Fr. Rebol, Eugene Kogovsek, Jean Krizman , 
Cirila Kermavner, Martin Kumse, Joseph Vaiencic, John Pestotnik, Ann Opeka, 
Karl Bonutti, Rudolph Susel, James Debevec and Stanley Ziherl. 
Stanley Ziherl read the minutes of the prior meeting, and the following 
corrections and additions were made: Spelling errors were made in the names 
of Edwin Polsak, Dr. Lango,99 Mark Ryavec and Ivo Vajgl; and Chairman Turk 
asked that the third paragraph on page 2 include this committee's praise for the 
contribution, attention and efforts in our endeavour by John Pestotnik and the 
Radio Club, and James Debevec and the American Home. 
Chairman Turk in his opening remarks repeated that we had made known 
that we would welcome participatio n by other groups, but he has not yet heard 
from othe rs that may be interested. 
Karl Banutti suggested that large donors to our cause be invited to our meet-
ings and Chairman Turk pointed out that they would be welcome, as we always 
have extra seats and space available for them to observe our proceedings, and 
that we have allowed guests in the past. 
Regarding a Treasurer's report, Chairman Turk asked if John Pestotnik and 
Stan Ziherl would lend themselves to working with Fr. Kumse in that matter. 
John Pestotnik reported that to date, the pledges and contributions would 
exceed $ 27,000,00. 
Joseph Valencic reported on the work he is doing on drafting a Thank You 
and other information letter to our donees. Chairman Turk suggested that it 
would be nice if the letter was constructed to include the amount of the dona-
* * * 
99 Lingo Silvester, rojen leta 1940 (Dcsklc, S[ovenija), zdravnik, piscc strokovnih del s podrocja IlIcdkinc, clan 
stcvilnih strokovnih zdruzcnj, prcdscdnik AmcrBkcga s]ovcnskcg3 kongrcsa, prcdscdnik NYC Slovene 
American Club-a; clan ~Ievitnih slovenskih zdruzcnj v Zdruzenih drzavah Amcrikc (Slovene Business 
Community Club, New York, SSS, Slovene Republican Club of New York), sponzOI" simpozijcv () sloven.~ki 
prisOInosli v Zdruzcnih drZavah lela 1992 in 1993, moderator mesecnih slovcnskih kulturn ih !HcC:::anj v New 
Yorku. 
7 
Rgzprgve in gradjvQ Ljubljgna 1999 st. 34 63 
tion to serve as a confirmation of the amount, as at least one of the donors had 
made that request. 
Martin Kumse and John Pestotnik suggested placing ads in publications 
such as the Plain Dealer, in addition to another mailing project. Chairman Turk 
spoke on considering meeting with Senator Metzenbaum and Congressman 
Feighan, and Jim Debevec suggested extending an invitation to Senator Dole or 
trying to meet with him. Eugene Kogovsek suggested concentrating on all sen-
ators and congressmen who expressed favor for the independence of Slovenia. 
After a discussion on ordering more post cards to be sent to the White 
House, Karl Bonutti moved, and John Pestotnik seconded to purchase and print 
5,000 more postcards, motion was approved unanimously. 
Joseph Valencic shared with us the thoughts of our P.R. subcommittee 
regarding a series of ads in Siovenian publications telling the readers how to 
contact the White House President Bush Hot Line; self-mailing envelopes and 
order form for donations; follow-up press releases on our actions and results; 
audio tapes to Siovenian and polka radio media nationally to run as public 
service announcements on contacting President Bush for recognition of 
Slovenia; and other means of keeping up the pressure. 
John Pestotnik commented that we're due for another attention-getting mail-
ing to keep our cause on an up-beat.James Debevec suggested that we make an 
effort or contact in other areas across the country for groups to form or be asso-
ciated with us. He also suggested that church bulletin ads may also be helpful. 
Karl Bonutti thought that other ethnic groups should be approached through 
their leaders. Chairman Turk asked Karl Bonutti if he could make contact with 
people in other cities that he has contact with. Joseph Valencic mentioned that 
we should look forward to packaging some written material for the Oktoberfest 
celebration. 
Eugene Kogovsek reported that K.S.K.]. sent $ 100,00 in response to the 
Radiothon, and that the KSKJ board approved setting aside space of 2 columns 
by 5 inches for the next three months in their publication for our material. An 
Opeka suggested sending information to Slovenia, and after further discussion 
by others, upon the motion of Stanley Ziherl and second by Eugene Kogovsek, 
it was unanimously approved that U.A.S. would pay for the postage and sub-
scription to the American Home for issues to be sent to Slovenia's president and 
selected members of Slovenia's cabinet to let them get information from 
Cleveland. 
64 Zgpjsnjkj "' United Americans for Siovenio" 
John PeslOtnik brought us up to date regarding possible representation in 
the Labor march in Washington available to local Slovenians, and may have 
more information next week on further details. Jim Oebevec suggested that we 
send a lener of support to the AFL-CIO with the expectation that they may, in 
turn, sponsor our cause. This was taken under advisement, especially when we 
have no idea on what kind of turnout or support that may participate in their 
march and demonstration. 
Chairman Turk read the recentlener he received, along with a T-shirt which 
commemorated the demonstrations by Slovenians in London, England, from 
Keith Miles, the Honorary representative of the Republic o f Slovenia in England. 
There being no further business, upon the motion of Kar! Bonutti and 
second by Stanley Ziher!, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m., and our next 
meeting will be on Friday, August 23, 1991, at 7:30 p.m. at the AMLA Home 
Office. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Stanley Ziher! 
= 
Razprgve in grgdivo Ljubljang 1999 il. 3.4 65 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE COMMmEE MEETING OF AUGUST 23, 1991 
The meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m., on August 23, 1991, by 
Chairman Turk at the A.M.L.A. Home Office. Present were Edmund Turk, Edwin 
Polsak, Stane Kuhar, Father Kumse, James Debevec, John Pestotnik, Joseph 
Valencic, Kar! Bonutti, Cirila Kermavner, Matt Susel, Stanley Ziher!, Tony 
Petkovsek and Father Boznar. 
The minutes of the meeting of August 16th were read by Stan Ziher! and 
were corrected regarding the mailing of the Ameriska Domovina to persons in 
Slovenia to clarify that the U.A.S. would pay for the postage involved for a peri-
od of six months and that it would be mailed to several newspapers and the 
Sloven ian Press agency and Matica. After the corrections were noted, John 
Pestotnik moved with a second by Mrs. Kermavner to approve the minutes as 
corrected and emended. 
Chairman Turk welcomed Edwin Polsak to the committee, and reported that 
he received no requests from any other organization to become a member of 
this committee. 
Father Kumse reported that our checking account had a balance of $ 24,142 
at this time, with only partial expenditures paid for, and other expenditures 
have not yet been submitted. It was reported that there could be approximately 
two thousand plus dollars of pledges that have not actually been received yet, 
and some monies received on this date that have not been submitted and 
cleared for deposit to our account.. The report as given by Father Kumse was 
approved and accepted by the motion of Stan Ziher! and second of John 
Pestotnik and the agreement of the committee. 
Chairman Turk reported upon the letter sent to the President by Senator 
Glenn and Congressman Eckart and asked that it be published by Jim Debevec. 
Stane Kuhar gave a report in the nature of a response to the request for 
clarification by Anthony Hiti at prior meeting where Mr. Hiti was of the opinion 
that solicitations sent out by the Slovenian American Council on the same day 
as the radiothon might have confused some of the donors. 
Joseph Valencic reported that the "thank you" letter will be ready to send to 
all of our donors and would get together with Stan Ziher! and John Pestotnik to 
implement this project. 
66 Zapisniki "United Americans for Sloveniq" 
Chairman Turk stated the most recent events regarding the Soviet Union 
developments and asked for an evaluation and input on our feelings as to the 
possible effects of our government recognising the Republic of Slovenia. The 
consensus was that the Soviet situation, and the impending recognition of the 
Baltic states by both the U.S. and Russia, had a positive effect for Slovenia and 
did not seem to be detrimental in the long run. 
John Pestotnik stated that we should send out another mailing as soon as 
pOSSible, in addition to the Thank you letters to keep the pressure on. 
Karl Bonutti reported that Ernest Petrie 100, the former Yugoslav ambassador 
to India would be coming to Washington DC in some form of diplomatic status 
as the representative of Slovenia here in the U.S. He should be located in the U.S. 
near the end of September, and the situation looks more promising for 
Slovenia, and that it seemed likely that Slovenia and Croatia may be recognized 
simultaneously in the near future. 
It was suggested that we should send another very strong letter to the 
President and members of Congress to take advantage of the situation as it 
stands now. Some felt that if we do, we should speak only of Slovenia and not 
mention Croatia. Stan Ziherl felt that, while we speak only of the recognition of 
Slovenia, that we must mention the Croation (sic!) situation, so not as to dis-
tance ourselves from that situation as our President has done. 
John Pestotnik reported that approximately 250 full petitions have been 
returned, and in his opinion the response was not as good as anticipated. He 
also reported that we would have some persons at the Oktoberfest to keep our 
movement going. 
Upon the motion of Stan Ziherl and second by John Pestotnik, this meeting 
was adjourned at 9:10 p.m., and that our next meeting will be on September 5, 
1991, at 7:30 p.m. again at the A.M.L.A. Home Office. 
* * * 
100 Ernest Petrie; mjen leta 1936 v Ljuhljani. ad leta 1982 rcdoi profcsor na Fakultcti za sodologijo, polilicne 
vcdc in novinarstvo v Ljubljani . V h.!tih 1989-1991 velcposlanik SFRJ v Intliji, od leta 1991 najprej pooblas(-coct: 
vladc Rcpublikc Slovcnijc v ZDA nalo pOi v Icrib 1992- 1996 pa vclcposlanik Hcpuhlike Slovcntjc v ZDA. Cd leta 
1996 drzavni sckrelar na MinislrSIVl1 ~<I zunanjc zadcvc Rcpublike S]ovcnijc. 
z 
Rqzprqve in grqdjyo Ljubljana 1999 il. 34 67 
STANLEY ZIHERL 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA FOR MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 5, 1991 
1. READING AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PRIOR MEETING, S/23/91 
2. TREASURER'S REPORT 
3. NEW MEMBERSHIP ON COMMITTEE. 
4. BARAGA DAYS, WASHINGTON DC, REPORT FROM JAMES DEBEVEC. 
5. MARK RYAVEC. 
6. UNITED FRONT AGAINST COMMUNISM IN YUGOSLAVIA. 
7. REPORT FROM FLORENCE UNETICH RE: SLOVENIA INDEPENDENCE 
VIDEO. 
S. TIME & PLACE OF NEXT MEETING. 
9. ADJOURNMENT. 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 1991 
The meeting was called to order at 7:40 P.M. by Chairman Edmund Turk. The 
minutes of the August 23rd meeting were read and approved on a motion by 
Carl Bonutti, second by Betty Rotar. 
Present at this meeting were: Edmund Turk, F~ther Boznar, Jean Krizman, 
Gene Kogovsek, Tony Hiti, Edwin Polsak, Joe Valencic, John Pestotnik, Ann 
Opeka, Carl Bonutti, Florence Unetich, Cirila Kermavner, Jim Debevec, Stanley 
Ziherl and Betty Rotar. 
Stan Ziherl reported that 400 "ThankYou" letters were sent out on Labor Day. 
Where pledges had been made and not received as yet, it was so noted on the 
letter. 
68 Zopjsniki "'United Americgns for Slovenia" 
John Pestotnik reported that additional donations are being directed to the 
Treasurer, Father Kumse. To date, approximately $ 27,000 has been received. 
Edmund Turk acknowledged a check for $ 100 from Frank and Anne Kern and 
a $ 250 donation from the KSK). 
Jim Debevec reported on Prime Minister Petede'slO1 visit to the U.S.A. and 
passed around copies of the latest edition of the American Home Weekly which 
covered the weekend events in Washington. D.C. Petede is very optimistic that 
within a matter of days, the European countries will recognise Slovenia and the 
U.S.A. will follow. Peterle had a meeting with Mark Ryavec of California at 10:00 
A.M. Sunday morning. There are two items that are of utmost importance: 
Support of a "Dear Colleague" letter which is to be sent to the President and urg-
ing of the passage of the Dole-PellHl2 ammendment. There is also a possibility 
that Pe tede will be meeting with Vice President Dan Quayle.103 Jim remarked 
that Prime Minister Petede comes on very favourably with the news media and 
is very charismatic. 
Jim also said that everyone was asking where they could get the "Support 
Slovenia" buttons. John Pestotnik replied that the Brodniks were in Washington 
and had them available. 
Edmund Turk asked Joe Valencic to write a letter to Governor George 
Voinovich thanking him for his letter to President Bush. Similar thank you letters 
should be written to both Congressman Eckart and Senator Glenn as well as 
Oberstar.104 
A lengthly discussion ensued re "United Front against Communism in 
Yugoslavia" letter. Edmund Turk reported that he has been in contact with Hon. 
Joseph DioGuardP05 of the Albanian American Civic League who is urging our 
* * * 
101 Lojzc Pc!Crlcj rojen ICla 1948 v Cuzoji vasi na Dolcnjskclll j gcogrdf in potitik, prv! prcdscdnik slovenskc 
vlade po dCllloknllicnih vOlirvdh lela 1990 (1990-1992); minister Rcpuhlikc Slovcnijc za wnanjc (1993-1994); 
publicist in urcdnik Revijc 2000; od lela 19R9 jc predscdnik strankc Slovcnskih kdcan:;kih dcmokratov in ad 
lela 1993 poprcdscdnik Evropskc ZYCZC krscanskih dcmokr.ltov. 
102 Clairborn{! dc l3ord<l Pcll j rojen !cta 1918; od leta 1960 senator z Hhodc Ishmd .... Diplomirdl 0<1 Princctonu 
in Columbia Univcrsity. Bit prcdscdnik ndbora za zunanjc zadcve v senatu ZDA. 
103 Danforth (I)<ln)). Quayle, mjen let<l1947 v InJianapollislI, kongrcsnik in senator iz Indianc; podpred.~ed­
nik Zdruzenih dr~av v letib 19RR-1993; let<l 1976 izvoljcn v kongrcs, leta 19f11 izvoljell v .~cnal. 
104 James L Oberstar; rojen leta 1934 v ChishollllU, Minnesota. St udiral rranc()~Cino in polilicne vede na 
College of St. Thomas v St. Paul, Minnesota (1956). Komparativne polilicne sistel11c jc sludi ral na College of 
Europe v Bruggesu , Bclgija. Dodatno slUdijsko izpopoln;evanje na Laval University (Quebec) in Georgetown 
University (Washington D. C.) Kongresnik od leta 1975 do danes, tore; te 11. periodo (osllli distrikt, Minnesota) 
105 Joseph J. l)ioGuardi; rOj. leta 1940, republikanski kongresnik iz okroija Scarsdalej diplorniral na Fordham 
University, Bronx New York, lcta 1984 izvoljcn v 99. kongres, ponovno izvoljen v 100. kongrcsj predscdnik 
Albanian American Civic League. 
RazprQve in grodivo Ljubljgna 1999 st. 34 69 
Committee to back them on this cause. Many representatives present felt that 
although the sub-title states it is an Ad Hoc Coalition to promote Democracy, 
Human/Civil Rights and Self-determination for all Peoples in Yugoslavia, the 
contents of the letter itself suggests their goals are not in keeping with ours. 
They only say what they are "for"; not what they are "against". We would be bet-
ter served to stick to our goal, i.e., getting President Bush to recognise Slovenia 
as an independe nt nation, than getting involved with peripheral issues. Carl 
Bonutti was in favor of our getting involved, pointing out that this letter will 
help to get the Dole-Pell Act passed. There will be a meeting on the 25th of 
September of the Natio nal Security Council where this issue will be discussed. 
Carl Bonutti moves we su pport this group, second by Stanley Ziherl. Motion car-
ried. Carl also suggested that perhaps some volunteers may want to attend the 
meeting on that day. We must, however, reiterate to Joseph DioGuardi that our 
involvement is specified under their sub-title and that, at this paint, we are only 
involved until the 25th of September. Edmund Turk will reply to the letter. 
Florence Unetich talked about the Alliance of Sloven ian-Americans showing 
a video cassette entitled Siovenija na Barikadah. The video is I Hr., 20 minutes 
long showing the hostilities of June 26/July 10th with excellent commentary 
including press co nfe rences and some of the negotiations that took place. 
Some of it is in English and or German with subtitles in Slovenia. The video will 
be shown this coming Saturday at 1:00, 4:00 and 7:00 P.M. at the Slovene 
Workman's Home on Waterloo. There will be no charge; however, donations 
w ill be accepted. If response is good and if we get permission from Radio/ TV 
Ljubljana, we will make copies of the video to sell. Price to be approximately $ 
2500 
Edmund Turk read the letter which was written by Joe Valencic and is to be 
sent to President Bush. All agreed it was a good letter. Motion by Betty RotaI', 
second by Ann Opeka the letter be sent. Approved by all. 
Although Stane Kuhar was not present at the meeting, he reported to 
Chairman Turk that their SAC has collected in excess of 1/ 2 Million Dollars (with 
SAC Group responsible for approximately $ 150,000 of that amount). Wants a 
list from Slovenia as to what they want to use the money for so that it gets direct-
ed to the proper people/places. 
Jean Krizman, affiliated with the Red Cross/International Section had 
Florence come down to talk to her people. Florence did an excellent job of 
explaining the history of Slovenia and spoke for 55 min. without stopping. 
About 20 people were in attendance and this certainly will help the Red Cross 
70 Zapisniki "United Americgns for Slovenia" 
understand what is going on in Slovenia. She has also got in touch with Tanny 
Babic to help with support for Croatia. 
Edwin Polsak wondered why more pressure is not coming from our own 
Federal Government to the Serbian Government to take control of the situation 
between Croatia/ Serbia. Carl Bonutti offe red that he has learned that a group o f 
Senators/Congressmen will invite Kucan106 for an official visit sometime in 
January; the exact date unknown at this time. This is an interesting development 
because of the definite interest on the part of our Congressmen and would be 
an honour to have the President of Slovenia invited. Through this invitation 
there is a strong possibility that Kucan would be able to meet with the President. 
More publicity is needed in the Cleveland Pape rs about Slove nia and what is 
being done to get recognition. Perhaps a half-page spread and some good copy, 
utilis ing the information of what this organization has already do ne should be 
sent to Feighan, Stokes, Metzenbaum, Oakar and others. The Cleveland Plain 
Dealer should also be sent a copy of the Committee's letter. 
We should also look into the National Endowment for Democracy Grants 
Package. 
John Pestotnik reported that all the names of the donors for the Radiothon 
will be published in the American Home. 
Jim Debevec reported on two young wholesome college students that he 
spent several hours with today. 
Joe Valencic re ported that 5,000 more postcards have been printed. 
Motion to adjourn at 9:28 by Father Bozoar, second by Cirila Kermavner. 
Passed. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, September 12, at 7:30 P.M. 
here in the AMLA Office. 
* * * 
Respectfully submitted 
Betty Rotar, Rec. Sec 
106 Milan Kucan ; rojen leta 1941 v Krizcvcih v Prekmurju, pl"dvnik in polilik. Mcd [eti 1978-1982 prcdsednik 
sku psi:ine SJ{ Sloycnijc, arrHa 199() izvoljcn za predscdnika predscds[V<l. RcpuhHkc Slovcnijc in leta 1992 in 
19% izvo[jen za prcd.~cdnika Hcpuhlikc Slovcnijc. Odigral je pomcmbno vlogo pri razdruzcvanju Rcpuhlikc 
Slovcnijc od Sodalisticnc fcdcrativnc rcpubJikc )ugoslavi jc. 
7 
Rgzprave in grgdjvo Ljubljana 1999 it 34 71 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 1991 
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Chairman Edmund Turk The 
minutes of the last meeting were read and approved after Carl Bonutti noted an 
error in the time of Kucan's visit. It should read "sometime in January", not 
October as stated in the minutes. Fran Mauric moved the minutes be accepted 
as corrected with a second by Tony Hiti. Passed. 
Chairman Turk reported that the American/ Slovenian Polka Foundation at 
its meeting this past Tuesday asked for representation in this Committee. 
Motion by Carl Bonutti, second by Jim Debevec for approval. Motion passed. 
Edmund Turk also questioned if we should invite Cardinal Hickey or perhaps 
Bishop Pevec would like to be a member. Carl Bonutti will call Bishop Pevec. 
John Pestotnik gave the Treasurer's Report. Checks are still coming in. He is 
trying to co-ordinate with Father Kumse and Stan Ziherl so they can keep 
current on the donations. Edmund Turk also presented a bill from AMLA in the 
amount of $ 987.34 which is, indeed, a conservative figure for all the copy paper, 
envelopes, postage, etc. used in sending out our mailings. Motion by Gene 
Kogovsek, second by John Pestotnik, the bill be paid. Motion passed. Edmund 
Turk also read excerpts of a letter written by Albin Lipold,107 President of the 
United Slovene Society to President Bush. It was a very good letter. 
Edmund Turk also reported on the United Front against Communism in 
Yugoslavia letter. A question arose that we may become liable. We might be 
called "communists" etc. In view of the feeling after we discussed it a little fur-
ther. One of the problems is that we do not have a corporate veil and we're all 
responsible for the actions of this committee. Edmund did not follow thru on 
our previous motion of September 5th. Therefore, he wishes us to reconsider 
the motion. Motion to reconsider was moved by Gene Kogovsek, second by Jim 
Debevec. Motion to amend or delete the adoption of the motion ... that is, we 
will not get involved by Gene Kogovsek, second by John Pestotnik Motion 
passed. 
Edmund Turk then read a letter which was written by Stan Kuhar re Mark 
Ryavec's letter. No action was taken. However, Carl Bonutti felt that we should 
* * * 
107 Albin Lipoid; mjcn leta 1928 v Dawsonu (NM.) Leta 1954 doktorinll na Cleveland Marshall l.<tw School 
(Cleveland Stale University). Pomoenik miilea v CUYdhooga Counry, Cleveland, Ohio. 
72 Zapisniki HUniled Americans for Slovenia" 
support anyone in the democratic government in Slovenia. It is not proper for 
us to point a finger to individuals that might have been members of the 
Communist Party years ago. They fought for democracy and succeeded in 
changing the system. Whether it's a Christian or Social Democrat or former 
Communist Party member, why should we be critical. No one on this 
Committee is getting paid and it is our duty and obligation to get going on the 
issue of getting support from our government. 
We again discussed the Dole-Pell Amendment and all agree that for the most 
part, the passage of this bill will greatly benefit our cause. However, John 
Pestotnik has asked Dennis Eckart's office to get him a copy of the bill in its 
entirety so that we can fully understand the parameters of this bill. Edmund 
Turk will also get more information. 
We also discussed the possibility of having Congressman Edward Feighan 
attend one of our meeting so we might get an update on this issue. It is Ollr 
understanding that when Mr. Petrie arrives in this country, he will be given 
diplomatic status. 
Matt Susel, who just returned from a week in Slovenia, gave an indepth 
report on what is going on. Apparently, their primary concern is the market 
economy and privatisation. They are having real difficulty in how to go about 
structuring businesses which were run by the government and now are going 
private. They don't know to do it and are asking how it can be done. An 
Economist from Harvard10" was very successful in advising the Eastern 
European countries, induding Slovenia. Peterle is committed to the plan. 
However, there is no model and no capital and if they take the wrong route, it 
will be a disaster. 
Jim Debevec added to the comments about a newspaper, much smaller in 
size than the American Home Weekly which has 18 reporters and 85 people 
working compared to the half dozen working at the American Home. 
Ivo Vajgl and Matjaz Janchar are both working in the Foreign Ministry. It 
appears there are two teams ... Peterle and Rupel and each is doing their own 
thing. We are, however, channelling information to Slovenia re our Radiothon, 
our letters, postcard, etc. So that they are aware that we are behind them 100%. 
Matt also reported that everything in Slovenia is expensive, even newspa-
pers. The official rate of a dinar is 22, but it will be going up again and there is 
* * * 
10M Jeffrey S;tchs, pmfcsorekonolllijc na harvardski univerzi in nekaj casa svetovalc<.: vl4tdc Rcpublikc Slovcnijc 
in mmtlih vzhodnocvropskih drJ.av v tranziciji. 
7 
Rgzprave in gradivo Ljubljgna 1999 SI. 34 73 
a physical shortage of bank notes. What they really need is hard currency. The 
Yugoslav Army is leaving, but destroying anything of value left at the army 
posts, etc. 
Stan Ziherl reminded us that we discussed putting an ad in the Washington 
Post or the Plain Dealer. Joe Valencic reported that a 1/ 2 Pg. ad somewhere in 
the vicinity of the Editorial Page would cost either $ 5,250 (432,000 Circulation) 
or $ 6.210 (562. 000 Circulation). He will also find out what the cost would be in 
the Washington Post. 
Joe Valencic also read a cover letter which will go out with the petitions that 
are going out. Another letter was received today. This one from a Tadej Gartner, 
which was directed toward the Radiothon. This letter, plus others we receive 
from across the country should be used as publicity. 
Tony Petkovsek reported that he will be travelling extensively and will be 
unable to attend too many meetings. However, he will be having an 8 x 10 
Commemorative Program Booklet in conjunction with the Thanksgiving Polka 
Weekend and is asking the fraternals and other organisations for support. 
Carl Bonutti reported that the President of Cleveland State"") has received a 
request to have Carl teach at the University of Ljubljana from October thru 
December. Permission has been granted and Carl will teach a course in 
Economics. He will have approximately 250 students, it will be taught in 
Slovenian and since there are no textbooks, the students write their own. He 
also noted that Vodopivec l1O is coming to America with his family and his apart-
ment will have to be furnished . If anyone has any furniture to donate, kindly let 
him know. 
Members in attendance were: Carl Bonutti, Frances Maurie, Tony Hiti, Gene 
Kogovsek, Edwin Polsak, Edmund Turk, Stanley Ziherl, Cirila Kermavner, Rudy 
Susel, Jim Debevec, John Pestotnik, Joe Valencic, Tony Petkovsek and Betty 
Rotar. 
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 P.M. The next meeting will be held at the 
AMLA Office on Tuesday, September 24th. 
* * * 
109 Cleveland Stale University; drl.avn<i univcr.la v Clcvcl<mdu. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rottar, Recording Secretary 
110 Peter VodopiVCCj rojcn leta 1946 v Ucogradu, rcdni profcsor 7.a oba> zgodovino 19. slolctja na Univerzi v 
I~ubljani in "Vlor ~tcvilnih prispcvkov vdomaCih in lujih znansrvcnih rcvijah, znansrvcni svclnik na Institutu za 
novcjSo zgodovino v ljubljani. 
74 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA 
9/24/91 
Zapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
1. READING & APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF 9/12/91 
2. NEW MEMBERSHIP 
3. TREASURER'S REPORT 
4. REPORT ON COMMUNICATIONS & STATUS OF DOLE-PELL AMEND-
MENT 
5. REPORTS 
6. NEW BUSINESS 
7. ADJOURNMENT & TIME & PLACE OF NEXT MEETING 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 24, 1991 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 7:40 p.m., at 
the A.M.L.A. Home Office. 
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and corrected as follows: 
Tony Petkovsek name was omitted as an attendee. A remark made by Dr. 
Bonutti was attributed to Matt Susel, however neither of them thought it 
important enough to redo. Also, concerning the United Front Against 
Communism in Yugoslavia there was a question of possible liability if someone 
is called "communist" and not "we might be called communist". On motion of 
Stan Ziherl and second by Cirila Kermavner, minutes approved as corrected. 
Carl Bonutti reported that he called Bishop Pevec about joining this group, 
and was awaiting a return call from the bishop. 
Father Kumse sent in a detailed treasurer's report and co-treasurer Stan 
Ziherl summarised it. Also, Stan Ziherl reported that Fr. Kumse would like to be 
7 
Razorave in gredivQ Ljubljana 1999 sl. 34 75 
relieved of these duties, and since Stan and Fr. Kumse are both the signatories, 
Stan said that he would be willing to let it remain as such with Stan doing the 
necessary paper work. 
John Pestotnik reported that our donations have exceeded $ 30,000.00. An 
unsolicited donation of $ 500.00 was received from Or. Glavina.l11 This prompt-
ed discussion on how to thank persons that sent in the larger donations. Jim 
Debevec volunteered to print the names, etc in the Domovina112 at no charge. 
He also suggested that these large donations should be acknowledged with a 
letter and perhaps a phone call. Joe Valencic will compose such a letter. 
The treasurer's report referred to earlier was approved on the motion of Ann 
Opeka and second by John Pestotnik. 
Chairman Turk reported on various phone calls he made and received. Stan 
Kuhar called him regarding the activities of Mark Ryavec of California, and no 
action was taken on a request from Mark Ryavec to be employed to go to 
Washington to promote the Siovenian cause. 
Chairman Turk also reported that he has been trying to get more 
information on the Oole-Pell Ammendment. Carl Bonutti reported that it did 
pass the Senate and is in Conference now and thought this ammendment has 
enough support to pass. Ed Turk further reported that Senator Glenn's office 
has been in touch with him and are impressed by our committee's efforts and 
that his office is still working for our cause. Jim Oebevec suggested the 
importance of having a lobbyist in Washington, but agreed that the expense 
would be prohibitive with OUf current treasury. 
A detailed discussion on the feasibility of taking an ad in the Washington 
Post, Wall Street Journal and others - as to which would be most effective and 
reach the right persons. Costs were given by Joe Valencic. Stan Ziherl suggested 
an ad in the Washington Post and also another mailing. Joe Valencic pointed out 
some of our problems with such an ad, such as time required for composition, 
copy readiness, etc. 
* * * 
111 Sonja Glavinaj rojena leta 1931 v MaribonL Studirala na univerzi v I.jllb!;an! v Icrih 1954-56, na Dunaju II klill 
1956-57, na C'I.~C Western UniWfsity v Clevclandu (1962) jc doktorirala iz dent.llne kirurgijc. Dcmisktk:l z 
zascbno prakso in poucevalka ( "senior clinical il1struc{or~) na Case Western University 
112 ArIleri5ka dOrllovina, najs{arej~ i slovcnski etnicni casopis v Clevclandu. Od lela 1899 do 1908 sc ic imcno-
"'.II Nova dOIll(}vina. Leta 190M jc touls !lire (solastnik Nove domovinc) uslanovil Clevclandsko Ameriko, ki sc 
ic po prvi svctovni voini preimcnovala v Amcrgko domovino. Ccprdv jc bi! casopis kat()li~ko orientiran, jc hil 
po svoji vschini ncodviscl1 od ccrkcvih krogov in jc vcasih priSe! v nasprotjc z njimi. Po drug; svetovni vajni jc 
postal ludi glasilo slovcnskc politicnc cmigracijc v Clevclandu. 
76 Zgpisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
Joe also suggested that the ad has to reach the right people, and that it would 
be mo re effective in Washington rather than in our Plain Dealer, and gave us 
some of his ideas of what the copy should contain. ' 
Senator Glenn's office also informed Chairman Turk that the Senator was in 
favor of bringing to the attention of the U.N. Security Council the hostilities in 
Croatia. 
Stan Ziherl reported that he will be attending the National Fraternal 
Congress convention in Washington next week and there is a possibility that he 
may meet Ernest Petrie, the Siovenian representative. 
Carl Bonutti suggested that we bring Mr. Petrie to Cleveland to lecture again , 
and Chairman Turk responded that it may be more appropriate for some other 
organization such as the Heritage foundation to make such arrangements. Ifhe 
should come here, there is no hesitation to have him meet with OUf committee. 
Since the Brioni Accord moratorium w ill expire on October 7th, Matt Susel 
felt that Slovenia will go forward to further implement their independence from 
Yugoslavia. Chairman Turk thought that this time would be a very propitious 
date to implement our press releases and letter campaign wi th our own 
mailings and coverage in the fraternal newspapers regarding the importance of 
calling the White House com ment line and mailing postcards on and during the 
week o f October 7th . Stan Ziherl moved that the chair be authorised to 
implement this program at the most opportune time, however Chairman Turk 
suggested that those interested could meet again this Thursday at 5:00 p.m. to 
set the logistics for another mass mailing and forwarding of press releases. 
Chairman Turk reported that he received a fax from Linda Cimperman 
regarding the atrocities being committed upon the Croatians. All agreed that we 
have hear too little from the White House regarding this situation, and are con-
cerned why we never hear the President mention Slovenia. 
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m. 
Present at this meeting were: Edmund Turk, John Pestotnik, Ann Opeka, 
Joseph Valencic, James Debevec, Matt Susel, Cirila Kermavner, Carl Bonutti, 
Fran Maurie, Stan Ziherl. 
Ron Maurie, Recording Secy (acting). 
d 
z 
Razprave in gradivo Ljubljana ]999 51. 34 77 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1991 
The meeting was called to order at 7:38 P.M. by Chairman Edmund Turk. 
Minutes of the previous meeting were read by Acting Recorder Frances Maurie. 
Since there were no additions or corrections, the minutes were approved on a 
motion by Stanley Ziherl , second by Carl Bonutti. 
Attendees at this meeting were: Edmund Turk, Tony Hiti, Stane Kuhar, Cir ila 
Kermavner, Frances Mauric, Stanley Ziherl, Joe Valencic, Carl Bonutti, Ann 
Opeka,jim Debevec, Rudy Susel and Betty Rotar. 
Relative to the minutes of September 24th, Stane Kuhar asked about Father 
Kumse's request to be relieved of his duties as Treasurer. Stan Ziher! comment-
ed that nothing has changed. The co-signatures on the account will remain the 
same. 
Edmund Turk asked is there were any more requests for new membership to 
the UAS. There were none. 
On the Treasurer's Report, Stan Ziherl reported an additional $ 2,050 in 
donations. There are some bills that have to be paid for postage, printing, etc. 
Fran Mauric moved, second by Ann Opeka all bills presented be paid. Passed. 
Our balance now stands ;,t $ 24,945.34. 
Discussed at length was the campaign targeted for October 7th, wherein 
everyone will be pushing to send postcards and/or call the White House at 1-
202-456-1111 to get the message across to President Bush that we want him to 
recognise Slovenia as an independent nation. 
There was an informal meeting on Thursday, September 26th at which time 
information and press releases were gathered for a mass mailing which took 
place on Saturday, September 28. About 12 or 13 people helped in this effort; 
about 1300 le tters were sent out. Edmund Turk thanked the volunteers for the ir 
work in this behalf. 
Relative to the same subject, Stane Kuhar reported that both S. VilUS and S. 
Mary's will print information about calling the While House, etc. in their Sunday 
bulletins. He is not quite sure about St. Lawrence yeti however, if it is too late to 
get printed in the Bulletin, he is certain something will be said from the pulpit. 
Fran Mauric reported that St. Felicitis, as well as St. Noel will be supporting this 
cause. 
78 lopisnjkj "United Americans for Slovenio H 
Since there will be several social functions this coming week, Edmund Turk 
asked for volunteers to get the message out at these affairs. They include, "Fantje 
na Vasi" Concert Saturday night, The SND1l3 Sunday Brunch and George 
Knaus's Upstairs/Downstairs Dance. Cirila Kermavner will co-ordinate the 
work. Ann Opeka,)im Debevec and Fran Maurie also volunteered their services. 
Others will also be asked to help. Cirila also reported that the SWU1l4 will also 
be doing their part in this effort. 
We again discussed putting an Lor Pg. Ad in either the Washington Post or 
the New York Times. We have to be careful that the ad would carry the impact 
to warrant the cost. We may do something on this after October 7/8. 
Stan Ziherl reported that he will be in Washington D.C. for the National 
Fraternal Congress starting tomorrow. He, along with Gene Kogovsek of KSK) 
and)oseph Evanish of SNP) will try to gettogether with Mr. Petric sometime this 
weekend. President Bush will be addressing the Congress and, perhaps, they 
may have some luck with him also. 
It appears that all of our Congressmen & women in Washington are willing 
to meet with this committee. Included will be Feighan, L. Stokes, Rosemary 
Oakar and Sen. Metzenbaum Arrangements will be made. 
Carl Bonutti remarked on the banquet that was held in honor of the 
Hungarian Prime Minister. Apparently, the Prime Minister feels his country will 
support Slovenia in its quest for independence. 
Edmund Turk reported on Tony's absence, noting that he is in Akron 
receiving a prestigious award, voting him into the Broadcaster's Hall of Fame 
and we compliment him on this honor. Since this is his 30th year of 
Broadcasting, there will be a program book during the Thanksgiving Weekend 
and we have been asked to take an ad in this book. Taking into account the 
tremendous job Tony has done for our Radiothon, plus the constant references 
on his programs to support Slovenia's independence, all agreed we should take 
out a full page ad for $ 300. Motion by Betty Rotar, second by Cirila Kermavner 
we purchase ad. Passed. 
Edmund Turk thanked Cirila for bringing an up-to-the-minute report which 
she received on a modem in her home giving latest information on 
Slovenia/Croatia. Rudy Susel also passed around information received from 
* * * 
113 Slovcnski Narodni Dom na St Clair Avenue. 
114 Slovene Women 's Union ( - S]ovcnska zcnska zveza) 
7 
Rozproye in gradjyo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 79 
Ljubljana, re the Siovenian Press Agency which touched on the ending of the 
moratorium, recognition of Slovenia, etc. 
Stan Kuhar reported that the Dole-Pell Act is now #1415 State Authorization 
Bill. The main obstacle is from Indiana. The plans are to put an arms embargo 
to Serbia. Edmund Turk remarked that he is totally amazed at the concern and 
responsiveness from Senator Glenn toward Slovenia ever since we met with 
him. Of course, others have also jumped on the "bandwagon", namely Senator 
Metzenbaum. 
Edmund Turk also thanked Rudy Susel and Jim Debevec for keeping 
Slovenia news on the "front burner". The Prosveta issue this week also devoted 
a good portion of front page to the October 7th "push" for Slovenia's inde-
pendence. The most important function of this committee is to keep the 
momentum going. We are all anxiously awaiting the October 7/ 8 outcome of 
responsiveness. 
Ollr next meeting will be Thursday, October 10th at 7:30 P.M. at the AMLA 
Home office. Motion to adjourn at 8:35 P.M. by Stan Ziherl, second by Jim 
Debevec. Motion passed. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
80 lopisniki "United Americgns for Slovenia" 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF OCTOBER 10, 1991 
In the absence of Edmund Turk, the meeting was called to order by acting 
chairman Stanley Ziherl, at 7: 40 p.m. 
Acting Recording Secretary, Fran Maurie read the minutes of the previous 
meeting. Motion to accept these minutes as read was made by Ann Opeka and 
seconded by John Pestotnik. Approved. Stane Kuhar questioned the status of 
Father Kumse's position on the Treasury post, Stan Ziherl answered that 
nothing has been changed. 
Stan Ziherl gave a verbal report on the treasury. We have an outstanding bill 
of $ 182.00 which needs approval. Approval to pay made by Gene Kogovsek 
and seconded by Toni Hiti. Approved. 
Matt Susel, Gene Kogovsek and Stan Ziherl reported on their trip to 
Washington DC where they were attending the National Fraternal Congress. 
President Bush addressed the group one day on the subject of Volunteerism. 
Senator Dole spoke another day and met with much approval and acclaim as he 
spoke on Slovenia and Croatia. He strongly feels that these peoples' quest for 
independence should be recognised by our government. Mr. Petrie who is from 
Slovenia and representing Slovenia in Washington met with Matt Susel and the 
presidents of AMLA, KSKJ and SNPJ for dinner and all were impressed by him. 
He was accompanied by Gregor Zore who is the financial and economic per-
son: The three fraternals took care of the expenses of Mr. Petrie and his party. 
Mr. Petrie was impressed with our work here. He thought our State Department 
was turning about and would be willing to talk to him. Cyrus Vance1l5 was 
appointed special envoy from the United Nations to try to resolve the problems 
in Yugoslavia. 
Joe Valencic reported on the publicity. Since the middle of the month, some 
9,000 names have been sent to Washington on petitions. Ed Turk had spoken on 
WERE. Channel #3 showed Jim Debevec at work on our issue, of course. 
*** 
• Rojen leta 1946 v Washingtonu D. C. M<lgisterij iz mcdnarodnih ekonomskih odnosov na univcrzi v LjubJjani 
(1974). Opravl;a! razoe funkcijc v Zvczncm sckrctariatu za zun:mjc zadevc SFRJ v ictih 1976 - 1991. V Icrih 1991 
- 1995 nameslnik vclcposlanika in lela 1997 velcposlanik, slalni prcdstavnik Slovenijc pri OZN in drugih mcd-
narodnih organizacijah v Zcncvi. 
115 Cyrus Vance, amcriski drzavni :\Ckrctar v Carrcrjt!vi .. dministratiji (1977-1981). 
7 
Razprave in grqdivo Ljubljanq 1999 si. 34 81 
Churches did their part. Concerts and dances were attended with cards and 
petitions. Thanks to all who participated in all of this work. Calls were made to 
Washington in great numbers this past week. He reported that Slovenia is very 
impressed with our work. Said that a big driving factor in our work is the work 
of both Senator Glenn and Congressman Eckart. They also said we should stay 
on course. 
The ad in the Washington Post was brought afore. And in view of the fact of 
Dr. Petrie's arrival in Washington, it was thought that now is the time for our ad. 
This ad and expense details were discussed at a previous meeting. 
Stane Kuhar moved that we put a [ page ad in the Washington Post, second-
ed by John Pestotnik and added that it should be done with ultimate speed. All 
agreed. John also moved that for a few hundred dollars more we should dupli-
cate this ad in the American Home newspaper. Ed Polsak seconded this motion 
and agreed upon byall. 
Stan Ziherl asked Joe Valencic, Matt Susel,Jim Debevec and several others to 
get together after this meeting and set a time to meet next week to work on this 
ad. Jean Krizman suggested that mailing be sent to our legislators at this time 
also. Also agreed. 
Professor Bonutti reported that there will be 'a lecture at the Euclid Library 
by visiting professor Vodopivec, who will lecture on Slovenia and Croatia. Carl 
also reported that Mr. Dular,1I6 Minister of Slovenians abroad will be in the 
country, and on November 3rd the Heritage Committee will sponsor another 
Slovenski Vecer. Mr. Petrie will also be there. Carl also invited any organisations 
to invite the gentlemen to their meetings or whatever, for the next few days. Ed 
Polsak suggested that we have them at a meeting on November 4th. All agreed. 
Perhaps we should ask Mr. Glenn also and others. 
Jim Debevec brought in a First Edition of a Croatian Newspaper which will 
be published monthly. In that issue they noted the arrival of Dr. Ernst Petrie to 
Washington. 
John Pestotnik told of the cutting of cables in Croatia and problems arising 
from this, as related to him by his daughter Linda in Slovenia. 
* * * 
116 Jancz Dular; rojen lcta 1943 v Vavli vasi pri Novem mestu, docent za slovcnski jezik na Filo7.0fski fakultcti 
v Ljubljani, minister za Slovence po svetu in narodnosti v Sioveniji v Pcterlctovi vladi in minister za kulturo v 
lctih 1995-1996. 
82 Zapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
A motion to adjourn was made by Father Boznar and seconded by Ann 
Opeka. The meeting adjourned at 8:55 P.M. 
Present were: Ed Polsak, J05. Vaiencic, Jean Krizman, Stane Kuhar, Fran 
Maurie, Gene Kogovsek,John Pestotnik, Matt Susel, Ann Opeka, Tony Hiti, Cirila 
Kermavner, Father Boznar, Jim Debevec, Carl Bonutti and Stanley Ziherl. 
Fran Maurie, acting fee. Seey. 
• 
b 
Rozprave in gradivo Ljubljgna 1999 si. 34 83 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF MEETING OF OCTOBER 22, 1991, 7:40 P.M. 
The meeting was called to order by chairman Edmund Turk at the AMLA 
Office. 
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved on a motion 
by Stanley Ziherl and seconded by Karl Sonutti. 
Stan Ziherl had prepared a treasury report and followed it with a verbal 
explanation. This included a donation of $ 50.00 from the K.S. K.J. from Joliet, 
III. and another $50.00 which had been pledged during the radiothon. Cirila 
Kermavner moved to accept this report. It was seconded by Tony Hiti and 
approved. In conjunction with that report, John Pestotnik reported that Tony 
Hiti had done some photography work at the radiothon amounting to $ 30.00. 
Motion made by Ed Polsak and seconded by Gene Kogovsek to pay this bill 
approved. 
John Pestotnik thought that we have not rounded the good number of sen-
ior citizens in this area. Ann Opeka to contact the Federation of the Senior 
Citizen groups. John also reported that he had been contacted by an individual 
in Texas that showed some interest in our work. He will send him some of OUf 
literature. 
Chairman, Ed Turk reported that Mr. Dular and Mr. Petrie will be here either 
Friday evening or Saturday A.M. An extensive itinerary has already been 
planned. Was decided that we would meet hereabout 2.00 p. m. on Nov. 2 and 
these gentlemen would arrive about 3.00 P.M. 
John Pestotnik suggested that we present ourselves with a bit of class and 
have tablecloths on the tables with mineral water and then perhaps some coffee 
and whatever. Ed Turk suggested that John handle and Fran Maurie offered the 
help of the women. To prepare for about 50 people. Chairman Turk emphasised 
that this is a meeting and not a reception. Mr. Sonutti did think that it was very 
important that this committee deals with these gentlemen. Feels that the 
Siovenian Government will or would be glad to deal with this group. 
Discussion on the prospective ad in the Washington Post. At the previous 
meeting, it was moved and agreed upon to purchase this ad. Now the discussion 
as to when and how. Joe Valencic explained that the ad will cost $ 10.000, i.e. a 
84 lopisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
1/4 page. It can appear for two Mondays for that price, however to appear on 
days of Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday would mean that price for one day. 
Friday was not accepted as a good day. These prices are also considered on a 
special "stand by". The committee chosen to work on this will meet after this 
meeting. 
John Pestotnik cites that Switzerland is accepting Slovenian passports; also 
Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Germany, Austria, Italy and Poland are about 
to recognise Slovenia. He feels that they are awaiting the United States. We must 
go for it!!! 
Stan Ziherl reported that he had received a letter from Senator 0' Amato ll7 
from N.Y. expressing his concern and that he had introduced a bill favoring eco-
nomic sanctions against the Federal Government of Yugoslavia. Stanley feels 
that if we do not do something, such as the ad in the Washington Post, we will 
lose steam and the issue will be forgotten. 
Mr. Petric will meet with the Plain Dealer. Jos. Valencic had called Mr. Bill 
Miller1l8 and Brent Larkin 119 and neither showed any interest in our issue. Ed 
Turk suggested that perhaps Karl Bonutti talk to Bill Miller. 
As told above, Ed Polsak reiterated that there can be no talk as to whether we 
should or should not go with the ad as it had been voted upon at the last meet-
ing. 
Stan Ziherl also displayed the Slovenian Newspaper "Delo" reporting our big 
effort on Oct. 9. i.e. calling and writing to President Bush.120 No one has any 
information as to how many calls may have been made on that day. John 
Pestotnik will contact Dennis Eckart. 
Also reported that the C.F.U.l21 is having a gigantic drive to secure 5,000,000 
petitions for their effort in Croatia . 
• • • 
117 Alfonse Manella D'Am.no; rojen leta 1937, republikanski scn<ltor iz New Yorka. Pravnik. Dirlomira1 na 
Siracuse Law School, Prvic izvoljen v senat leta 1980 Z3 obdobjc, ki se je zacclo 3. januarja 1981; ponovno izvo]· 
jen v letu 1986 za obdobje, ki sc je koncalo 3. januarja 1993. 
118 Bill Miller, novinar Plain Dcalerja, ki se ukvarja z etnicnimi vpr~anji v Clevclandu. 
119 Odgovorni urcdnik casopisa Plain Dealer. 
120 erc za poz;v profesorjcv ameriSkc knji~evnosti na Filozofski faku[tcti v Ljubljan i, nas]ovljcn "Pismo 
Warcnnu Zimmermannu · in objavljen v Dclu 16. 10. 1991 na su. 4. V pismu profesorji pozivajo amcri.llko vlado 
k priznanju Slovcnije, kom~a pa se s stavkom: " ... Ta podpora bo ludi pripomogla k krcpitvi tradicionalno dobrih 
odnosov med slovenskim narodom in dr1avn ZDA, kjcr Americani slovenskcga rodu pray tako s sreem podpi-
rajo prizadcvanja za samostojnost Slovcnije: 
] 21 Croalian Fralernal Union (Hrvatska bratska zajcdnica), hrva.llka podporna organizacija, uSllloovljena kOl 
Hrvatska oarodna zajednica leta 1894. 
t 
Rgzproye in grqdivo Ljubljana 1999 $1. 34 85 
Ed Turk reported that he has received more donations through the mail. Also 
a letter from the White House, however, there was no commitment and not even 
any mention of Slovenia. He did receive a very encouraging letter from Senator 
Dole. Ed has also received a call from Congresswoman Oaker's office, (not from 
her personally) Also no commitment. 
Tony Petkovsek suggested that we support the Siovenski Vecer. Said that 
most of the committee members represented here, will be there representing 
their other organisations. 
In attendance at this meeting were: 
Edmund Turk, John Pestotnik, Joyce Plemel, CiriJa Kermavner, Antony Hiti, 
Eugene Kogovsek, Jos. Valencic, Stanley Ziherl, Ann Opeka, Karl Bonutti, Tony 
Petkovsek. Matt Susei, Ed Polsak and Fran Maurie. 
The next meeting will be right here on Saturday, November 3th 1991. 
The meeting adjourned on a motion by John Pestotnik and seconded by 
Joyce Plemel. 
Submitted by 
Fran Maurie, Acting Recording Secretary 
86 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA 
NOVEMBER 21, 1991 
Zapisniki NUniled Americans for Sloven iaN 
1. THE APPROVAL FOR THE MINUTES OF OCTOBER, 1991 
2. NEW MEMBERSHIP. 
3. BRIEF EVALUATION OF DULAR/PETRIC CONFERENCE. 
4. REPORTS OF COMMITIEE MEMBERS. 
5. RECOGNITION LETIERS TO $ 1,000.00 AND $ 500,.00 
CONTRIBUTORS. 
6. MEDIA ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTING OF LIST OF DONORS. 
7. PAT BUCHANAN RECOGNITION. 
8. PURCHASE OF FILING CABINET AND PAPER-FOLDING MACHINE. 
9. TIME AND PLACE AND ADJOURNMENT. 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 21, 1991 
The Meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 7:40 P.M. 
Minutes of the last meeting were read and accepted on a motion by Karl 
Bonutti, second by John Pestotnik. Motion passed. Members absent included 
Fathers Boznar and Kumse, Mat Susel, Cirila Kermavner and Gene Kogovsek. 
Joe Valencic will be late. Joe Petricl 22 is representing the Cleveland Federation 
of Siovenian Homes. 123 
Jim Debevec proposed Jean Drobnic of the American Slovene Clubl24 who 
would like to serve on this committee. Motion by Stan Ziherl, second by Jean 
* * * 
122 Sckrctar American Mutual Life A.~sociation (AMLA) in nckdanji predscdnik Slovenskcga narodncga duma 
v Eudidu na Heche!" Avenue. 
123 Organizacija os mih slovcnskih narodnih domov v Clcvclandu, ki skrbi za njihova vzdrioV'dnjc in ohranitcv. 
124 Eno od mnogih slovcnskih dru~tcv v Clevclandu. 
b 
Razprave in gradivQ Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 87 
Krizman we accept the American Slovene Club's representative. Motion passed. 
Ann Opeka reported that she did contact the Pensioners Clubs!25 and was 
told that John Taucher would represent that group at the November 2nd meet-
ing with Drs. Petrie and Dular. He did not attend. 
Edmund Turk spoke briefly on the Petric/Dular reception which was held 
here in the AMLA Headquarters Office. The meeting gave us some insights on 
what is happening in Slovenia and also in Washington. From all reports, they 
were quite busy travelling throughout the U.S. The Heritage Foundation Dinner 
which was held on November 3rd was well attended. Ed was impressed with Dr. 
Petric as a very articulate speaker and feels he will be a good conduit for us in 
Washington. 
Other committee members added their comments. Jim Debevec reported 
that he asked them to give us more news regarding Slovenia. The people in the 
U.S.A. are interested in what is going on there. They would also like to see some 
of our people travelling to Slovenia again. Karl Bonutti felt that the meetings 
were beyond their expectations. Both men felt there was a great deal of interest 
on the part of the Slovenian communities in the Slovenian cause. They were 
also surprised at our efforts to keep Slovenian culture alive in the U.S.A. Ann 
Opeka was impressed with the warmth shown to the guests, especially when 
Tim McCormack126, Mayor White!2' and Senator Glenn spoke and thanked 
everyone who came and participated. 
John Pestotnik said although congratulations on the successful visit are in 
order, the issues are still not resolved. Serbia still controls Slovenia and the 
U.S.A.(sic!) There is definitely something going on in Washington that is not in 
our favor regarding the Slovenia independence issue. We are all aware that 
many State Reps and Senators have come out strongly in our behalf; yet, with as 
many as 18-24 bills pending in the White House on this same issue, there is still 
no action from President Bush. 
Stanley Ziherl has in his possession the different bills that are pending in 
Congress. However, he has to read thru them to see which ones directly affect 
Slovenia. Many of them also relate to Croatia and its struggle for independence. 
We all realise that we have to assert ourselves more. We are all working 
toward the recognition of Slovenia and trying to do our best. However, perhaps 
• • • 
125 ZYc%.a sloycnskih upokojcnccy v ClcYe\andu 
126 Okrajni pooblasccnec (County Commissioner) v clcvelandskem okraju Cuyahoga. 
127 .zupan mcsta Cleveland 
88 ZQRisnik; "United Americqns for Slovenia" 
we should send letters to all the Congressmen and Senators whose names 
appear on the different bills pending, expressing our thanks for their support. 
Joe Valencic will write the letter and it will go out. 
Letters will also go out to any individual or organization that donated $ 500 
or more to the United Americans for Slovenia Fund. 
Discussed at length was the approach we should take in regard to the ad in 
either the Washington Post or a newspaper of that caliber. Although we have 
voted to place a full page ad several meetings ago this has not been done to 
date. Members made comments as to which avenue would be best. We want to 
get the finest and best product and the biggest "bang" for our dollar. Tony Hiti 
felt that we should go locally first and print something in the American Home. 
Jim Debevec felt that we would have more impetus if we would have our ad in 
US.A. Today. 128 Stan Ziherl agrees. Joe Valencic and Tony Hiti who have worked 
on the ad layout showed a couple of their efforts and asked for imput as to what 
would be most effective. Although the general format was impressive, Tony felt 
that they were not confident that it is exactly right at this point. Edmund Turk 
asked that those members interested in helping set up the ad should stay after 
the meeting and meet with Joe Valencic and Tony Hiti. Jim Debevec, Joe Petric, 
Ed Polsak and Stan Ziherl volunteered to stay. 
We then discussed the timing for placing the ad. Congress will be taking a 
recess during the Thanksgiving Holiday. However, they will be coming back to 
finish their business during the month of December. The ad should be placed 
sometime early in December. Dr. Petric offered to help with the ad. The feeling 
is that he still doesn't have the sensitivity of the American public at this early 
date and, since we are not obligated in any way, he will not be asked. 
Edmund Turk then addressed the abundance of publicity that is coming by 
way or reporter Pat Buchanan who writes for the Washington Post among other 
publications. With his articles he has put "Slovenia" on the front burner more 
than any other journalist. Ed thought that perhaps we should present him with 
a plaque. Stane Kuhar felt we should invite him here to speak. We would get the 
milage and the publicity would be plentiful. Motion by Ann Opeka to invite Pat 
Buchanan, second by Fran Mauric, Karl Bonutti would make the contact and see 
if he could appear at the City Club. There would be an invitation to all the media 
to come for a press conference. All felt in would be in his best interest if he 
would accept. The motion passed without opposition. 
* * * 
128 USA Today. vSCamcri~ki casopis. 
7 
Rozprave in grodivo Ljubljana 1999 it. 34 89 
Edmund Turk asked for permission to purchase a filing cabinet and a paper 
folding machine, both items not to exceed $ 850.00. Permission granted. 
Edmund Turk then reported on a discussion he had with a gentlemen of 
Croation (sic!) descent who wondered if we could have a liaison person to 
attend their meetings and they in turn, would send someone to attend ours. 
Apparently the Croations (sic!) are very well organized and are sending 
clothing, canned goods and medical supplies, etc. to help their people. More 
discussion ensued on this subject' however, it was felt that our focus should stay 
on having our government recognize Slovenia as an independent nation. 
Karl Bonuni again brought up the subject matter of the ad which will be pub-
lished. He felt that there is some confusion in Washington and that it appears 
that they are blaming Slovenia for the problems that have developed in 
Yugoslavia. It is a very serious and depressing statement they are making. 
Therefore, it is very important that we stress that Slovenia was promoting a con-
federation; that they were for human rights for Kosovo and Albania (sic!). Their 
secession was a last resort. Our ad should reflect this message. 
Under miscellaneous business, Ann Opeka reported that Eleanor Molley 
(Kmet) had called about selling Xmas Angels at the Slovenian National Art Guild 
Bazaar129 in October. She had made these "Angels" and wanted any monies 
realized from this project to be donated to a worthy cause. A total of $ 218.00 
was donated. Eleanor Molley will be thanked. A donation of $ 50.00 was 
received from the Bishop Baraga Society, KSKJ Lodge # 257. 
The meeting was adjourned at 9, 40 P.M. on a motion by Ann Opeka, second 
by Fran Mauric. Motion passed. Edmund Turk reminded anyone who wished 
to participate in preparation for the ad to stay and help. 
Our next meeting will be on Thursday, December 5th at 7, 30 P.M. at the 
AMLA Home Office. 
• • * 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
129 Organi .. 4l.cija "La promocijo slovenske kulture med Slovenei v Clcvelandu, ki vsako lelo v Euclidu organizi ra 
prodajno ra7,Slavo slik. \ JI)(1" 
90 lopisniki uUnited Americans for Slovenia" 
Members in attendance at the November 21st Meeting were, 
Edmund Turk, Stanley Ziherl,Joseph Petrie, Jim Debevec, Fran Maurie, Ann 
Opeka, Karl Bonutti, John Pestotnik, Tony Petkovsek, Betty Rota .. , Ed Polsak, 
Tony Hiti, Stane Kuhar, Jean Krizman, Joseph Baskovich, Joseph Valeneic. 
d 
b 
Razpro .... e in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 sl. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF DECEMBER S, 1991 
91 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 7:40 P.M. 
Minutes of the last meeting were read by Recording Secretary Betty Rotar. 
Corrections to the minutes included: On Pg. 2, Para. 2, Stan Ziherl was in agree-
ment an ad be taken in the American Home Weekly, not U.s.A. Today. Same 
Para., the size of the ad should have read "1/4 Pg.". not Full Page Ad. Also , same 
Para.,John Pestotnik was also present when the "Ad" was set up. Heari ng no fur-
ther objection the minutes were accepted as corrected. 
Stanley Zihe rl gave the Treasurer's Report. Balance as of Dec. 5, 1991, $ 
25,536.76. The $ 6,211.60 figure represents statio nery, printing and mailing costs 
for OUf massive mailings. Motion by Fran Maurie, second by John Pestotnik to 
accept the Treasurer's Report. Motion passed. 
John Pestotnik also mentioned that he was able to procure a file cabinet for 
our use from his sister-in-law. Ann Opeka questioned if we really need a folding 
mach ine. Edmund Turk pointed out that when this Committee is officially ter-
minated, the Folding Machine could be used by any organization that has bee n 
involved with the UAS. Since there was no motion for reconsideration for the 
action taken at the last meeting, the Chair will go ahead with other business. 
Speaking on the subject of having Pat Buchanan as a possible speaker at the 
City Club, Matt Susel felt we should think twice. He is not in favor of this move, 
considering that Mr. Buchanan is seriously considering running as a presiden-
tial candidate. Ed mund Turk felt that we should explo re the possibi lity of get-
ting Buchanan because he is definitely suppo rting our cause; we invited John 
Glenn and no one criticised us. Pat Buchanan as a natio nally syndicated colum-
nist seems to be the only journalist who speaks out on the subject of what is 
happening in Slovenia and Croatia and we should seek anyone who shows an 
interest in this matter. Actually, its not a matter of principle, but a matter of what 
is bette r for us. 
John Pestotnik reported that at the U.S.S.ll ll meeting on Tuesday they voted 
to sponsor a clothing drive which would help the Croation (sic!) people now in 
Slove nia. The central collection point will be the Siovenian Workmen's Home 
* * * 
130 Unitl..x1 SJovcn ian Society. En a 00 kuJ[urnih orga nizacij SJovcnccv v CJcvcJand u. 
92 lapisniki UUnjted Americans for Slovenia" 
on Waterloo. A 2.5% tax is being imposed on Slovenians and sending this cloth-
ing will relieve the burden on them. Father Boznar reported that 5t. Vitus had a 
similar clothing drive for two weekends and they collected not only clothes but 
$ 3,000 which will be sent to Karitas in Slovenia. He would be willing to receive 
this drive, perhaps after Christmas. John Pestotnik will work with Father Boznar 
re the expenses, i.e., cost of shipping, etc. 
A copy of the ad which will appear in the Washington Post was passed 
around and Edmund asked for comments. Some suggestions included 
changing the order of "bullet" paragraph No.4 to the No.2 spot: spelling out 
CSCE (Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe): making a change 
in the next paragraph to say "The United States has a moral commitment to 
support Slovenia and other emerging democracies and grant it formal 
diplomatic recognition". A clearer, larger sketch of the map of Slove nia will be 
used. Chairman Turk complimented the committee on the fine job they did on 
preparing this ad. He also felt that this ad should appear in the American Home 
and the other five (5) fraternals first. Then, we should put it in the Washington 
Post. A lengthy discussion ensued. Most of the members felt that we should put 
the ad in the Washington Post as quickly as possible. Joe Valencic reported that 
he w ill call on Monday to see if we can be on standby for possible inclusion in 
the Thursday issue. On this basis, it would only cost us $ 5,000. Stane Kuhar 
moved, second by John Pestotnik, we have the revised ad printed this coming 
week. Motion passed. 
We then discussed using the ad in our fraternals with the notation that it 
appeared in the Washington Post and we would like to have the readers clip it 
out and send to President Bush. Likewise in the American Home Weekly. 
Jim Debevec said he is still waiting to get the list of donors to the UAS so that 
it can be published. Joe Valencic is in the process of getting out the letters to all 
the Senators and Congressmen who have offered their support. 
Edmund Turk then announced that an invitation has come to his office re 
the official opening reception of the Republic of Slovenia in Washington D.C. 
on Wednesday, December 11, 1991. From all indications, it appeared that no one 
would be in a position to attend. 
Edmund then read a letter received by Karl Bonutti asking for support for a 
group that is fo rming a coalition for Slovenians and Croations (sic!) and other 
ethnics to stop the bloodshed and recognize the independence of both coun-
tries. Letter tabled. 
j 
b 
Razprove in gradivo Lj ubljana 1999 st. 34 93 
Edmund also reported that he had an informal meeting with Linda 
Cimperman who enlightened him on what's happening in Slovenia. She is still 
here in Cleveland and he was wondering if we wou ld like to have her talk to us 
at our next meeting. John informed us that she will be leaving on December 
13th and since everyone was in favor of haVing her talk to us, it was decided to 
have a short meeting on Thursday, December 12th at 7:30 preceding her arrival. 
Karl Bonutti announced that there was an interesting interview with Father 
Kumse in the last issue of Druzina. He also invited everyone to join in the 
Annual Bishop Pevec Mass and Xmas Program at Borromeo Seminary 
tomo rrow evening. The program starts at 6:30, the Mass at 7:00 with the 
Glasbena Matica Chorus, followed by singing of Xmas Carols and a social. 
The mee ting was adjourned at 9:15 PM. on a motion by Stanley Ziher!, sec-
ond by Joe Valencic. Motion passed. 
Members in attendance were: 
Jim Debevec, Stan Ziher!, Joe Valencic, Matt Susel, Ann Opeka, Kar! Bonutti, 
John Pestotnik, Betty Rotar, Edmund Turk, Father J. Boznar, Cirila Kermavner, 
Tony Hiti, Fran Mauric, Stan Kuhar, Helen Konkoy. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
94 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
DECEMBER 12, 1991 
Zapisniki "United Americgns for Slovenia" 
In attendance at this meeting were: Chairman Turk, Stan Ziher!, Rudy Susel, 
Jim D ebevec, Jos Valencic, Ann Opeka, Cirila Kermavner, Jean Krisman, Tony 
Hiti, Gene Kogovsek, Fran Mauric and Father Boznar. New Member is Jea n 
Drobnik representing the American Slovenes. 
Chairman opened the meeting and reported that he had no formal agenda. 
The recording sec'y. Betty Rotar was ill, therefor not in attendance and there-
fore, no minutes of the previous meeting. Fran Mauric offered to record. 
Jos. Valencic reported as follows. Presented all with the final ad which will 
appear this coming Tuesday, the 17th in the Washington Post. He had 
negotiated for the Federal Page at a price of approximately 4000 to 5,000 
dollars. It was sent in today. Consensus of all that it was a "good deal". Price and 
timing. With Germany to announce on the 18th their sanction of Slovenia and 
Croatia, this is good! Other countries are promising to follow. 
This ad will then be printed in the American Home and other Fraternal 
Papers. People will be asked to cut out this ad, make copies and send it to the ir 
respective representatives in Washinton. 
Stan Ziherl moved to buy this ad in the American Home. Cirila Kermavner 
seconded the motion and approved. 
Kar! Bonutti had called Stan and reported a bit on his attendance at the 
Petrie reception in Washington, D.C. 
Stan Ziherl reported on a slight addition to the Treasury report. Gene 
Kogovsek was added to the "Ad" Committee. 
Suggested that a list of the donors to our organization will be listed in the 
American Home after the holiday. 
The "Ad" Committee to work on the subject as to which papers the ad will be 
sent to. 
John Pestotnik and his daughter Linda arrived. They also had attended the 
reception in Washington. Gave a very concise report on it. Linda proceeded to 
give her interpretation of the situation in Slovenia. She has been living and 
working there for the almost 2 years. 
J 
b 
Razprave in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 sl. 34 95 
Meeting adjourned on a motion by Stan Ziher! and seconded by Cirila 
Kermavner at 9:30 P.M. 
A meeting to be held next Thursday, the 19th. 
Acting Recording Secretary, 
Fran Maurie 
96 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AGENDA 
DECEMBER 19, 1991 
Zopisniki "United Americqns for Slovenia" 
1. READING & APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOV. 28 & Dec. 5, 1991 
2. NEW MEMBERSHIP 
3. TREASURER'S REPORT 
4. REPORT ON ADVERTISEMENT WASHINGTON POST 
5. FOLLOW UP ON CAMPAIGN STRATEGY RE: 4 
6. NEW BUSINESS 
7. MERRY CHRISTMAS & THANKS FROM OUR SLOVENIAN COMMUNI-
TY FOR YOUR DEDICATION AND HARD WORK 
8. ADJOURNMENT AND TIME & PLACE NEXT MEETING 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF DECEMBER 19, 1991, 7.43 P.M. 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Ed. Turk at the AMLA office. 
The minutes of the Dec. 5 meeting were read and that following corrections 
made; The last sentence of the second par. on the 2nd page is to be deleted. re: 
Stan Kuhar's motion to go ahead with the ad. This had already been moved on 
and approved at the previous meeting. And to clarify on the same page, par. 4; 
Jos. Valencic is in the process of getting out the letters to all of the Senators and 
Congressmen who offered their support. This should be: They are to be sent 
Thanks for their support. 
There being no furthe r corrections, a move to accept was made Tony Hiti 
and 2nd by Matt Susel, approved. 
The Minutes of the December 12 meeting were read and the follOWing cor-
rection was made: In the 3rd par., the word sanction is to be changed to the 
b 
Razprave in gradiyo Ljubljanq 1999 sl. 34 97 
word recognition. Cirila Kermavner moved to accept the minutes and this was 
seconded by Tony Hiti, approved. Stan Ziherl reported that there was no change 
in the Treasury and that the folding machine had arrived today. 
The Big News of the Day and Week is: Our ad appeared in the Washington 
Post yesterday. And propitiously, on the same page that announced the installa-
tion of new Chief of Staff, Samuel Skinner. Joe Valencic reported on the drama 
proceeding the ad's appearance. In fact, surprising, that on the preceding two 
pages are headlines of Croation (sic!) and Slovenian news. This had not 
appeared before. Also noted that Zagreb was celebrating tonight Germany's 
recognition. Dan Ratherl3 ! also reported on the issue. It seems that our issue has 
become of some value to the public other that ourselves. Jos. Valencic faxed the 
ad to Mr. Petric in Washington, also to Mr. Mitja Merso]I32 A Me. Stan 
Sustersich133 of Chevy Chase, M.d. sent copies of this newspaper to Ed. Turk. Ed 
also rec'd1 34 a letter from a Me Halogyn who supplies inflatable boars to 
Croatia. He wanted to know about our committee and it's work. 
Ed rec'd. copies of bills no. 213 and 224. These bills support our cause. 65 
members cosponsored these bills. Hamilton of Indiana refused to sign them. 
Suggested that Me aaker, Me. Feighan and Me Stokes be contacted as to their 
thoughts on these bills. Ed Turk also suggested that our Mast Head be put on 
this ad when it is reprinted in our Fraternals. 
Also suggested that a note be added that people should read or hear about 
these bills. John Pestotnik said that we take time to read these bills thoroughly 
as some of them may be duplicates. There are 20 of them. Stan Ziherl said that 
he has already found the above bills in our files. Jos. Valencic to include a note 
on the # 224 bill when writing on our ad to Congress people. Feighan, Stokes 
and Oaker. 
Ed rec'd. a donation from a lodge in Indiana of $100.00. Karl Bonutti offered 
that he received positive calls from people on the ad these same people had 
questioned the monies spent. Chairman Turk proposed a Big Hand to the Ad 
Committee, a good amount of work expended, a wise expenditure. Indeed a 
good job. A slight discussion as to whether this ad should appear again and 
* * * 
131 Komcntator CBS. od leta 1988 daljc glavni poroecvalec CBS News. 
132 Urednik casopisa Dela in avtor ~tcvilnih knjig. 
133 Pr<lvnik slovenskega porekla il. Clevelanda. Od leta 1979 do 1987 je bil radijski koordinator radijskih oddaj 
za Evropo pri Voice of America (GJas Amerike). Po upokojirvj sc ukvarja Z organizacijo in koordinacijo sloven-
skih kulturnih prireditev y W<lshingtonu. 
134 received 
98 Zcpisniki "'United Americgns for Slovenia" 
when. Adding the possibility as to is going to recognize. Added that it will be 
pertinent that the ads appear in our fraternals/ determined that 50,000 families 
can be reached through the fraternals. 
Ed has been contacted by the Washington Times, selling us space. Tabled. 
John Pestotnik suggested that copies of these bills be sent to all of Ohio 
Representatives. Stan Ziherl suggested that we make a concerted plan on what 
we are going to send an to whom. Suggested also that we send/some of the edi-
torials such as the one written by Richard Nixon 135 in the Wall St. Journal136 
Interesting as to what motivated Nixon's interest. Agreed that a Mail-Out during 
the holidays is not very probable but should aim for one after, possibly the 15th. 
Stan complimented Jim Debevec on the good editorials. 
John Pestotnik reported that approximately $300.00 is owed by pledges 
from the radiothon. Ed. Turk suggested that he diplomaticaly ask for it. Joe 
Valencic will call a meeting as needed by the Ad committee and Ed Turk to call 
meetings for the full committee. Jos. Valencic will get letters to donors. 
Wondering by all why the Plain Dealer is so lax in reporting on our issue. 
Karl Bonutti suggested that these reporters do not know much about the world 
outside of our city. Karl also announced that both Jim Debevec and Matt Susel 
will be honored by the American Nationality Movement in recognition of their 
work on the Slovenian and Croation (sic!) issue. This to be done at the Hofbrau 
House on the 15th. All invited. 
Mall Susel that another ad appear following the news on recognition 
appears on Jan. 15. 
This meeting adjourned on a motion by Cirila Kermavner, 2nd by Karl 
Bonutti at 9 P.M. 
* * * 
135 Amcriski prcdscdnik v IClih 1967- 1973. 
136 Vooilni ameriSki gospodarski casopis. 
Submitted by 
Franc Maurie, Acting Recording Sec'y. 
h 
Rqzprave in gradivo Ljubljqnq 1999 it. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF JANUARY 9, 1992 
99 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 7: 40 P.M. 
Minutes of the last meeting were read by Fran Maurie. Corrections to the 
December 19th minutes included: 64 Members, not 65 Members on Bill No. 224 
and on Bill No. 213, 27 sponsors. However, what's important is that they need a 
majority of 218 signatures to get a bill moved in Congress. Hearing no other 
additions or corrections, the minutes were approved on a motion by Gene 
Kogovsek, second by Jean Krizman. Passed. 
New Membership - Edmund received a letter from the United Slovene 
Society stating that Linda Cimperman will be their representative. In the event 
Linda cannot attend the meetings,John Pestotnik will be the alternate. John also 
represents the Slovene Radio Club. Edmund also wondered what ever 
happened to Jean Drobn ik of the American Slovene Women's Club. Ann Opeka 
offered the information that she were in Florida at this time. 
Treasurer's Report - Two $100 donations were received: one from Siovenska 
Druiba and one from St. Aloysius # 52, KSKj. Expenses were: #458.06 to Quill 
Corp. for the letter folder and $300 to Cleveland Siovenian Radio Club for the 
"Trideset" ad. Income to date: $32,062.56, Expenses: $11,263.26; Balance 1/92: 
$20,799.30. Motion to accept the Treasurer's report by John Pestotnik, second 
by Betty Rotar. Approved. 
Edmund acknowledged the recognition received by American Home own-
ers James and Madeline Debevec and the Slovene section editor Dr. Rudolph 
Susel at the December 21st Annual Christmas Luncheon of the American 
Nationalities Movement. A round of applause for the recipients was given. 
Edmund Turk also read a letter he received from Dr. Petric. He was most 
complimentary and thanked the UAS and all those responsible for the timely ad 
which was printed in the Washington Post. He has receiyed many calls relative 
to the ad; response has been good. Edmund suggested that the letter in its 
entirety could be printed in the American Home Weekly and Jim Debevec 
agreed to do this. 
Dr. Karl Bonutti offered the information that there will be a change in the 
leadership of Slovenia. At this time, Parliament does not have the majority. 
However, a new law has to be written and passed to have a new election in 
100 Zapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
Summer or in September. The present government could stay in power for four 
years. However, if there is a change in the Prime Minister, they have to have an 
election. They are learning. No one said "democracy would be easy". Dr. Bonutti 
also elaborated on other aspects of the problems between Croatia and Serbia. 
Jean Krizman reported that there was an article in the Cleveland Plain Dealer 
re finding missing people in Yugoslavia on January 2nd. There have been 8 
inquiries to date to the ICRC.J37 She also reported that Geneva, Switzerland has 
taken charge of the Yugoslav Red Cross. 
We discussed at length having another and appear in the Washington Post. 
However, Linda Cimperman reported that in talking to Rep. Dennis Eckart, the 
dollars spent would have more of an impact if the ad were to appear the week 
of January 20th (or on January 23rd). In general, the consensus seemed to be 
we will wait until January 15th to see if the European Countries will recognize 
Slovenia as has been indicated and then we will know what direction to take. 
Edmund reported on a meeting held last Thursday Oan.2) where this same sub-
ject was discussed at length. He has talked to Dr. Petrie who was optimistic 
about what was happening following our Dec. 17th ad. Has been attending 
many diplomatic functions. Jim Debevec asked Ed if when talking to Dr. Petric, 
he had alluded to whether he felt the U.S.A. would recognize Slovenia on 
January 15th. Ed responded, "No", not at that time, but was hopeful the recog-
nition would follow soon. 
Jim Debevec mentioned that in its January, 1992 edition, the Rodna Gruda 
had reprinted in its entirety, the October 31st article "Call the President" is Big 
Success ! and remarked that this is good publicity and makes the Slovenians 
aware that we are doing something here in America to help their cause. 
John Pestotnik reminded everyone that we must continue to "bombard" 
President Bush with telephone calls, postcards, letters, etc., because they do a 
daily tally on what news items U.S. citizens are most concerned about. 
John Pestotnik also remarked that we are missing represe ntation from about 
4,000-5,000 people because we don't have the Pensioner's Clubs included in 
our membership. A letter should be sent asking for a representative to be 
appointed or elected. Ann Opeka has already approached John Taucher sever-
al months ago and he had indicated that he would come. Ann will call again and 
a follow-up letter will be sent. 
* * * 
137 International Commiuee Red Cross " Mednarodni komile Rdetega kri"la. 
s 
b 
Razprovo in gfgdivQ Ljubliana 1999 st. 34 101 
Joe Valencic reported that he sent out 24 mailings over the weekend. These 
included all the fraternals, including Western Slavonic as well as Bill Miller and 
Brent Larkin of the Plain Dealer; John Urbancich 138 of the Sun Newspapers 
(brother of Madeline Debevec), the News Herald, Akron Beacon Journal and 
Assoc. Press. He has also submitted publicity (including the Washington Post 
ad) to WELW and WEWS139 Edmund thanked Joe for the great job he has done 
in the publicity department for us. It is really appreciated. Joe was 
acknowledged with a round of applause. 
Dr. Bonutti reported that the City Administration has called a meeting of a 
Sister Cities Committee140 for Thursday, January 16th at 7:30 in the Council 
Chambers. They are expecting the Mayor of Ljubljana to visit Cleveland some-
time in February. Since our meetings are generally held on Thursdays, Karl will 
see if they can, perhaps, change their date. 
Fran Maurie moved, second by Stanley Ziherl our next meeting be held on 
Thursday, January 16th at 7:30 P.M. here in the AMLA Home Office. Motion 
passed. 
Motion to adjourn at 8:45 P.M. by Tony Hiti, second by Gene Kogovsek. 
Passed. All were invited to partake of Jean Krizman's Potiea and Coffee in the 
AMLA kitchen. 
* * * 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
138 Roj. 1948 v Clcvclandu, OhiO, novinar in odgovorni urednik casopisa Sun Newspaper v Clevelandu 
139 1.okalni radijski posfaji v CleveJandu. 
140 Clevclandski del (xlbora pobratenih mes! Clevelanda in Ljubljanc. 
102 Zopisnjkj "United Americans for Slovenia" 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEniNG OF JANUARY 16, 1992 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 7:40 P.M. 
Minutes of the last meeting were read by Betty Rotar and corrected as follows: 
Under New Membership: Spelling of Gene Drobnic's name and it should be list-
ed as the American Slovene Club. Top of Pg. 2. under Dr. Bonutti's report. "At 
this time, the Demos Coalition does not have a majority in the Parliament." 
Hearing no other additions or corrections, the minutes were approved on a 
motion by Stanley Ziherl, second by Tony Hiti. Approved. 
Ann Opeka reported that she has talked to John Taucher and although he is 
not able to attend meeting, he offered to call Gus Petelinkar, Frank Cesen 141 (son 
of Frank Cesen) and Stanley Frankt4 ', to see if any of them would be willing to 
attend. None are present tonight. 
There is no change in the Treasurer's report. 
A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the recognition of Slovenia by the 
European Communities. However, the position of the United States 
Government has not changed. In fact, it appears that they are again favoring a 
confederation of Yugoslavia according to Linda Cimperman's remarks. Dr. Karl 
Bonutti reported that Or. Petric was very distressed after his meeting at the 
White House, especially because he not only wants recogni tion of Slovenia, but 
also because he would like to have the sanctions imposed on Slovenia lifted. 
This is causing a tremendous economic problem in Slovenia. At the present 
time, they have o nly enough fuel for another month at the Atomic Energy Plant 
and if their plant gets shut down because of this shortage, it will cut down 
Slovenia's energy by 50%. Although the plant was built by Westinghouse, 
permission has to come from the U.S. Government even if Westinghouse 
intercedes in Slovenia's behalf. Just about everyone present at the meeting 
offered some suggestions as to what procedure we should follow. They 
included: A follow-up ad in the Washington Post; more letters to our 
Congressmen; additional postcards, but with different wording such as "X No. 
Of Countries have recognized Slovenia ... Why not the U.S.A.'; another Phone-a-
* * * 
141 Funkcionar slovcnskih upokojcnskih klubov iz Clcvclanda. 
142 Clan odbora fcdcracijc slovcnskih narodnih dornov v CJevclandu in blagajnik slovcnskih devclandskih 
upokojenskih kluhov. 
7 
Razorave in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 $1 34 103 
thon, perhaps on Lincoln's Birthday, Feb. 12th (maybe even suggest calling all 
week long); a delegation of Sloven ian leaders go to Washington to meet with 
the State Department and Congress to express our disappointment at the way 
this situation is being handled. All these suggestions were recognised as being 
good ones however, according to Edmund Turk "no wheels will turn until 
Congress gets back in session. Only then will we be able to determine if this 
subject will be re-opened; if there is enough dialogue to warrant their reacting 
to what their constituency wants". 
The discussion continued with an overall agreement that a personalised, 
comprehensive, all encompassing letter be sent to each Congressman asking for 
support to have Slovenia recognized by the US.A. Enclosed with the letter will 
be a copy of the Washington Post Ad, a copy of the American Home Newspaper, 
etc. Another letter and similar enclosures will be made to the 645 organisations 
who are supporting the UAS cause. A motion by Ed Polsak, second by Karl 
Bonutti to purchase 1,600 envelopes to get this project underway was approved 
by all. Dr. Bonutti will check into utilising a software disk which may be avail-
able thru the Urban College to help expedite this mailing. 
In planning for our next big campaign, we must see what the next several 
days will bring. We have to see how many countries will recognize Slovenia, a 
sense of what Congress will do and a feeling from the State Department. We 
have to emphasise that Slovenia's borders are not in dispute, we are supporting 
human rights and protection for minorities. We have to find which are the right 
buttons to push, where the pipe line is, who are we trying to get to. Linda 
Cimperman will give Nixon's personal fax number and address to Ed. Turk. 
Dr. Karl Bonutti had a suggestion that perhaps a letter written by Chairman 
Edmund Turk to the President of the Latini American countries urging them to 
recognize Slovenia would have an impact. The gentlemen is a good friend of Dr. 
Bonutti's and will be glad to do this. 
Dr. Bonutti also reported that he heard they will be having a big celebration 
in Slovenia this coming Sunday and was wondering if, perhaps, our parish 
churches could have a Mess of Thanksgiving here at the same time. Father 
Boznar felt that we should wait for an appropriate time and day and do some-
thing as a Siovenian community, not just the churches. 
Dr. Bonutti reported on the Sister Cities meeting held last night regarding the 
visit of the Mayor of Ljubljana. He wondered if this Committee would be inter-
ested in meeting with the delegation that is coming from Slovenia. A decision 
was put "on hold". 
104 Zopisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
Linda Cimperman asked if we could reconsider the urgency of placing 
another ad in the Washington Post. She realises that Joe Valencic is inundated 
with work and that our December 17th ad was a manifestation of nearly two 
months of work to produce that excellent ad. However, she is willing to help if 
you need assistance in whatever way she can to produce another one as quick-
ly as possible. Jim Debevec suggested that we welcome the Congressmen back 
to session and tell then what countries have already recognized Slovenia and 
that it is a top priority. 
A motion was made by Stanley Ziherl, second by Father Bozoar to go for-
ward with mass publicity. People did contribute for this specific cause and we 
should spend the money (prudently, of course) in the way that is most effective. 
Therefore, we should put another ad in the Washington Post, send our the let-
ters and postcards. All agreed. 
Chairman Edmund Turk again thanked Joe Valencic for all his work above 
and beyond the call of duty. He asked Joe if he needed help and Joe replied that 
writing the letters doesn't take that much time. However, other areas in the 
Publicity Department do, and he will ask for help when necessary. 
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, January 23rd at 7:30 P.M. at the 
AMLA Home Office. Motion to adjourn at 9:30 P.M. by Dr. Karl Bonutti, second 
by Tony Hiti. Passed. 
Present at the meeting: 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
Edmund Turk, Dr. Karl Bonutti,Joe Valencic, Tony Hiti, Edwin Polsak, Father 
John Kumse, Father Joseph Boznar, Jean Krizman, Fran Mauric, John Pestotnik, 
Linda Cimperman, Jim Debevec, Stanley Ziherl, Matt Susel, Ann Opeka, Betty 
Rotar. 
d 
7 
Rozprave in gradivo Uubljana J 999 st. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF JANUARY 23, 1992 
105 
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Edmund Turk at 7:35 P.M. 
Minutes of the last meeting were read by Betty Rotar and corrected as follows: 
Linda Cimperman wished to clarify the statement re the United States position 
toward Yugoslavia. It should have read, "The State Department Representative 
stated that the U.S. position has not changed". It was further stated that the "u.s. 
favored a Yugoslav Union". Karl Bonutti asked that on Pg. 2, Para. 3, the word 
"President" be changed to "Parliament" and Ann Opeka suggested that in her 
report on contacting the Pensioner's Clubs, it should be so stated. Stan Ziherl 
moved, second by Jim Debevec that minutes be accepted as corrected. Motion 
passed. 
Treasurer's Report - Motion to accept by Dusan Marsic, second by Betty 
Rotar. Passed. Edmund Turk read a letter he received from Ernest RyavecJ43 who 
resides in California. Enclosed was a donation of $100 to the United Americans 
for Slovenia in memory of Frank Zebot,144 a native of Maribor, Slovenia. Betty 
Rotar will send a letter to his widow, Lija. John Pestotnik noted that many letters 
accompanied donations to the UAS, expressing sentiments of "why" they were 
donating to this worthy cause. If we start a precedent with this individual, all 
should be acknowledged. Other correspondence included a signed petition 
page from the Plymouth, Minnesota area and a clip out of the message for Pres. 
Bush from a woman in Wisconsin. 
Rudy Susel showed a copy of the American Serbograd (sic!)J45 newspaper 
which is packed with letters to our Congressmen. It is interesting to note that if 
you listen to Slovenians and Croations (sic!), the feeling is that the Serbs control 
the media. In this newspaper, the Serbs feel the opposite is true. 
Jim Debevec stated that in the Financial Times of London, if you read 
between the lines, the Serbs are acknowledging that Slovenia and Croatia are no 
* * * 
143 Rojcn leta 1916 v Clevclandu, Ohio, poveljnik vojne ladje v ameri,~ki vojni mornarici in veteran druge 
svCtovne vojne; vodja maternat i~ne sekcije v uradu za pomorsko raziskovanje pri amcri~kem obrambnem 
ministrstvu. 2:ivi v Sama Monici v Kaliforniji. 
144 Francis L Zebo!; mjcn leta 1943 (Ljubljana, Slovenija), doktorat pravnih ved leta 1969 (University of 
Chicago), od leta 1978 dalje pOlllocnik vrhovnega totilca Zdrutenih drtav. 
145Prdvilno Srhobran srbski cmitni tasopis, glasilo Srbske narodne zajednice (Serbian National rederdtion), 
rned drugo svctovno vojno na vclcsrbskih, proCetni~kih staliSlih. 
106 lapisniki "United Americgns for Sloven iON 
longer a part of Yugoslavia; and today, both Bosnia-Hercegovina and 
Macedonia said "No" to Serbia. 
All in attendance had received a copy of Senator Dole's January 23rd 
Resolution urging the U.S. to recognize Croatia and Slovenia. The resolution 
states that 27 Senators and 39 Countries have already extended recognition. 
Linda Cimperman noted that in talking to someone in the Minister of Foreign 
Affairs Office, 45 countries have already Signed on and Jim Debevec offered the 
information that he had received a fax from Senator Glenn's office with this 
same information. 
Edmund Turk felt that a "Thank You" lette r should be sent to all the 28 per-
sons telling them a little bit about our organization, along with a copy of the 
American Home newspaper. A similar letter should be sent to the remaining 62 
Senators asking them for su pport. The Dole Resolution should also be included 
in this latter. 
Linda Cimperman also stated that in talking to several people, it was sug-
gested that we lobby the Black Caucus and Spanish Caucus. These two inde-
pendent groups might have some appreciation for what we are trying to 
accomplish. Linda offered to send a letter to these two groups to alleviate an 
extra burden on Joe Valencic. Two other comments were that the Foreign 
Affairs Committee is in support of Serbia and that the Sports Trade Publication 
is recognising Slovenia'S entries in the Winter Olympics. 
Dr. Bonutti asked if the letters to the Latin American Countries has been writ-
ten. Joe Valencic stated they were; however, they have not been mailed. Dr. 
Bonutti wondered if he could add a new introductory paragraph and include a 
copy of the Dole Resolution. Joe acknowledged it would be no problem. 
Dr. Bonutti also reported that there are rumors that the White House and 
State Department are now in the process of re-evaluating their position on 
Slovenia and Croatia. 
At this point in time, Edmund Turk left the meeting, following an emergency 
phone call and he asked Stanley Ziherl to preside. 
Joe Valencic reported he may have a problem getting the ad in the 
Washington Post when it would be most effective. It appears the Senate will be 
adjourning the week of February lOth. At the moment, there is space available 
on a standby basis for January 31st and possibly February 6th. However, there 
is no guarantee and confirmation can only be gotten a week before date of 
issue. An alternative would be printing the ad in the New York Times-that cost 
D 
Razprave in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 SI. 304 107 
would be $ 5,100 on a standby basis. At this point, corrections have been made 
on the original ad ~ndJoe will check on Monday to see what dates are available 
fort the coming week. Even though it appeared we didn't get much response, 
the phones "were ringing of the wall" in Washington. 
Rudy Susel suggested that several months ago there was talk that a delega-
tion of some of our members go physically to Washington. It might cost less and 
be more effective. Karl Bonutti reiterated that 3-4 months ago, a group of peo-
ple were ready to go; however, they had to cancel because of the political situa-
tion in Slovenia at that time. You do have to have a professional organize those 
meetings and you have to have a lobbyist. With a Republican Government, you 
have to have someone open the doors within the White House and the State 
Department. According to John Pestotnik and Linda Cimperman, Congressman 
Dennis Eckart would assist us. Tony Hiti also felt strongly about sending a dele-
gation to Washington. Suggestions were noted and Stanley Ziherl appointed 
Tony Hiti, Linda Cimperman, Karl Bonutti and Rudy Susel to assess the possi-
bility and effectiveness of this move. 
John Pestotnik feels very strongly that we should repeat what we have done 
before. We shou ld send out the personalised letters to the Congressmen, then 
follow up with a similar letter to all the organizations as well as the 500 plus con-
tributors to arouse our people to support our cause. This should be done just 
prior to February 12th, the date we have mentioned for our phone-a-thon. A 
mail-out will be done this coming Sunday. 
Jim Debevec wondered if we could invite Senator Dole to come to Cleveland 
so we could have a meeting with him, similar to that which we had with Senator 
Glenn. Karl Bonutti offered the information that Senator Dole had been invited 
to Cleveland when Dr. Dular was here. Unfortunately, he cou ld not make it. 
Stane Kuhar reported that SAC has extended an invitation to Senator Dole to 
come to Northeast Ohio. There has been no response to date. 
Karl Bonutti noted that the Cleveland Plain Dealer has not had an editorial in 
the newspaper re the recognition of Slovenia and Croatia; Rudy Susel added 
that in talking with Joseph Bernik of Chicago, the Chicago Tribune is also silent 
on this issue. Apparently both newspapers favor a Yugoslav Confederation. 
Duke Marsic added his comments: The cause of YugoslaVia is falling apart. 
Slovenes and Croatians have been oppressed from 1918 thru 1941. We now have 
to use the leverage that 45 countries are recognising these two nations. They 
were considered 3rd class citizens in Yugoslavia even though they produced 
artists, writers, etc. They have voted for their independence and it should be 
supported. They have wanted this for a long time and they are justly deserving. 
108 Zapisniki "United Americgns for Slovenia" 
Linda Cimperman expressed her feeling that the strategy behind the U.S. not 
reacting too quickly is that someone has to play ""dirty guy"" The had to get the 
U.N. troops into Croatia. Someone had to be in the middle. They did send a 3-
man team from the Institute of Strategic Planning and others to analyse the sit-
uation. Hopefully, they will recognize at some point. 
There being no further discussion, a motion by Stane Kuhar, second by Cirila 
Kermavner to adjourn the meeting at 8:40 PM Passed. Our next meeting will be 
held here at the AMLA Home Office on Thursday, January 30th at 7:30 P.M. 
Present at the meeting: 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
UNITED AMERICAN FOR SLOVENIA 
Edmund Turk, Stanley Ziher!, Joe Valencic, Jim Debevec, Cirila Kermavner, 
Joe Petrie, Florence Unetich, Kar! Bonutti, Duke Marsic, Rudy Susel, Tony Hiti, 
Ann Opeka, Stane Kuhar, Linda Cimperman, John Pestotnik, Edwin Polsak, 
Betty Rotar. 
c 
Razprave in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 St. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF FEBRUARY 6, 1992 
109 
Prior to the meeting being called to order a group photograph was taken of 
the committee members. 
The meeting was called to o rder by Chairman Edmund Turk at 8:00 P.M. 
The Minutes of the January 30, 1992 meeting were read and corrected to 
indicate that 41 countries had recognized Slovenia, and that recognition by 
Israel and Ethiopia would increase the number to 43. G. Kogovsek moved to 
approve the Minutes as corrected. J. Pestotnik seconded. The motion carried 
unanimously. 
TREASURER'S REPORT 
S. Ziherl reported that there were no changes from the last report. Some 
recent contributions have been received and will be accounted for in the next 
report. 
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 
E. Turk read a letter he received from Dr. Ernest Petrie thanking the members 
of the UAS for their efforts during the mailings to Congress. He reported that the 
Russian Federation will be recognizing Slovenia by the end of the week. E. Turk 
detailed the progress of Senate Bill 246 which was co-sponsored by Sen. Bob 
Dolc. To date 36 Senators have signed on. Unfortunately Ohio Sen. Howard 
Metzenbaum has not yet Signed. E. Turk indicated that he would contact Sen. 
Metzenbaum's office regarding this matter. 
PUBLICITY COMMITTEE 
Jo. Valencic reported that press releases had been sent to the Siovenian -
American media concerning the February 12 White House phone-in campaig n. 
He has also prepared letters for UAS contributors and the general mailing list.]. 
Pestotnik informed everyone that workers will be needed on Sunday Feb. 9 to 
prepare the mass mailing. Anyone interested in helping should contact him. J. 
Pestotnik also reported that the list of contributors should be ready to publish 
soon. 
RECOGNITION CELEBRATION COMMITTEE 
J. Valencic asked all committee members to stay after the regular meeting to 
110 Zapisnik.i "United Americgns for Slovenia" 
develop plans for the celebration. Rev. Boznar said that he would talk to the 
other Siovenian parish priests concerning a Mass of thanksgiving. He felt that 
the Cathedral would be the best location. 
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS 
]. Valencic and L. Cimperman reported that the Siovenian and Croation (sic!) 
flags were flown over City Hall today as a sign of solidarity during President 
Bush's visit to Cleveland. E. Turk suggested that a letter be sent to Mayor White 
thanking him for this gesture of support. 
K. Bonutti reported that the Senate Foreign Relations Committee has invited 
Siovenian President Milan Kuean to Washington DC during the week of 
February 17th. K. Bonutti suggested the UAS send a delegation to Washington 
at this time. E. Turk would contact Dr. Petrie in Washington to see if a UAS dele-
gation would be appropriate. 
M. Benz from Kollander World Travel briefly reported on the travel situation 
to Slovenia. He said that the U.S. State Department has lifted its travel advisory 
for Slovenia and that the Brnik airport is again open and operational. He report-
ed that flights to Slovenia via Frankfurt would soon be available. 
With no further business before the Board, S. Kuhar moved that the meeting 
be adjourned. S. Ziherl seconded. The motion carried and the meeting was 
adjourned at 8:55 P.M. 
The next meeting will be at the AMLA Home Office on Thursday, February 
13, 1992 at 7:30 P.M. 
ATIENDANCE 
Respectfully Submitted, 
Anthony W. Hiti, Acting Recording Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
Edmund Turk, Joe Valencic, Cirila Kermavner, Karl Bonutti, Tony Hiti, Linda 
Cimperman, Stane Kuhar, Betti Rotar, Jean Krizman, Helen Konkoy, Tony 
Petkovsek, Stanley Ziherl,Jim Debevec,Joe Petrie, Rudy Susel, Ann Opeka,John 
Pestotnik, Edwin Polsak, Rev. Joseph Boznar, Fran Mauric, Gene Kogovsek, 
Joyce Plemel. 
7 
b 
Razprave in 9radivo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF FEBRUARY 13, 1992 
III 
Chairman Edmund Turk called the meeting to order at 7:45 P.M. The minutes 
of the last meeting written by Tony Hiti were read by Betty Rotar. Hearing no 
additions or corrections, the minutes were accepted as read on a motion by 
Stanley Ziherl, second by Jean Krizman. Approved. 
Edmund Turk welcomed Gene Drobnic to her first meeting. Gene apolo-
gised for not coming before; however, she was out-of-town. 
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 
Edmund Turk reported tllat he heard that Pres. Milan Kucan is coming to 
America ... then later that he is not. However, Dimitri Rupel and Ivo Vajgl and 
several others are apparently coming to Washington to meet with some of the 
Senators. Dr. Petric wondered if perhaps a small delegation from the UAS could 
come and have dinner at his house. It would be a rwo-day trip and the dates are 
not yet confirmed. A greeting was also received from Meta Vajgl wishing us 
success in our efforts in contacting the Leaders in Washington. 
Received a letter from John R. Kasich146 Representative from the 12th, 
District of Ohio dated November 12, 1991 and one from Stanley Frank 
Secretary-Treasurer of the St. Clair Pensioners Group. 
Although we have not heard what the figures were on yesterday's telephone 
campaign to the White House, indications are that it was very successful. Dennis 
Eckart will be contacted for a pOSSible up<late. 
Edmund Turk was featured live on Station WLIP from Kenosha Wisc. at 7:45 
A.M. this morning. The interview lasted about 8 minutes discussing the issue of 
the USA's recognition of Slovenia as an independent nation and of course, our 
organization, that UAS. It's ironic that we get publicity so far away and yet, here 
in Cleveland, all the radio stations and TV stations are so quiet about our work. 
Stanley Ziherl had called Edmund Turk with the information that Russia has 
recognized Slovenia. 
* * * 
146 John It K<tsich, rcpublikanski kongrcsnik iz Westerville, Ohio. Prvic izvoljen v 98, kongres ICla 1984 in v 
vse nadaljne do d,mes. Lela 1974 diplomirdl iz politicnih ved na Ohio St.ne University v Columbusu. POllloCnik 
ohijskcga dr~avncha scna!orja Donalda Luckensa 1975-1977. Clan ohijskc zakonodajnc zbornkc 1979-1982. 
Clan kongrcsnr.:ga komilcja za vamos! lDA. Predsednik kongresnega komitcj<l za proracun. 
112 Zopisniki "United Americqns for Slovenia" 
RECOGNITION CELEBRATION 
Joe Valencic reported on the meeting that this committee had with regard 
this celebration. They will do a mailing to the different Choruses to be on stand-
by for when recognition does come. They are also going to contact the USS 
Band and a couple of orchestras. As of now, they are looking at three options: 
1. A spontaneous open-house (within several days of the official 
announcement) at the St. Clair Hall. An invite to Mayor White, Rep. Dennis 
Eckart and perhaps some other celebrities/ dignitaries who were helpful in our 
quest. The festivities would include a cash bar and kitchen and arrangements 
are being made to get a liquor license on short notice when the time com es. Joe 
Petric would be in charge of the bar and Jean Krizman in charge of the kitchen. 
2. A Mass at St.John's Cathedral with an open-house follOWing at either St. 
Vitus or the Sloven ian National Home. Here again, it would take several days to 
get the word out; publicity on Tony's Radio Show and in the American Home 
would help to alert the general public of this endeavour. 
3. Our formal celebrating would be by invitation only. Guests would 
include donors and workers/ volunteers who helped in any capacity. The com-
bined choruses would be asked to perform and a featured speaker would be 
invited. Some of the dignitaries would include Dr. Petrie from Washington, D.C., 
Mayor Lynch, Robert Dole, Dennis Eckart and others. Since this would all have 
to be co-ordinated, it would not necessarily be done as soon as the first two 
options. There is a possibility that we could work out a telephone/ video hook-
up with Slovenia or a video-taped message that could later be televised in 
Slovenia. 
John Pestotnik is looking into getting some sort of a souvenir to give each 
donor for this special event. A lengthy discussion ensued on all the possibilities 
available. Many suggestions came from all in attendance: Pins, ribbons, some-
thing in china, crystal or wood were all mentioned. Of course, cost will also 
come into the picture and John is exploring all the avenues and come up with 
a few choices. 
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS 
Stanley Ziher! had no treasurer's report as he is awaiting statements from the 
bank. 
John Pestotnik reported that 1,100 mailings went out on Sunday February 
9th with the help of many volunteers. Thanks to all who came and helped. 
d 
Razprave jn gradivo Ljubljana 1999 sl. 34 113 
Edmund Turk felt that since this mailing is out and we are just sort of waiting 
for something "big" to happen, perhaps we should wait for two weeks before 
we meet again. Hearing no objection, the next meeting will be on Thursday, 
February 27th at 7:30 P.M. at the AM LA Home Office. Motion to adjourn by Cirila 
Kermavner, second by John Pestotnik, at 8:55 P.M. Motion passed. 
Members in attendance were: 
Respectfully submitted 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
Edmund Turk, Joe Valencic, John Pestotnik, Stanley Ziher!, Jim Debevec, 
Jean Krizman, Fran Maurie, Cirila Kermavner, Edwin Polsak, Joe Petrie, Linda 
Cimperman, Betty Rotar. 
114 lopisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MIMms Of 1HE MEETIIIG Of MARof 19, 1992 - AM1A HOME oma 
The meeting was called to order at 7:35P.M. by Chairman Edmund Turk. 
Minutes of the last meeting were read with a few minor corrections. The lunch-
eon at the Playhouse Club was a combined effort of the Slovene Businessmen 
and The Cleveland Heritage Foundation. Motion to accept the minutes as cor-
rected was made by John Pestotnik, second by Jim Debevec. Approved. 
Edmund Turk reported on mail received which included: An Editorial from 
the Arizona Republic; Mary Rose Oakar; Mrs. Mary Lavrich and Albert Gore.1• 7 
There was also a $25.00 donation from Frank and Stella Strauss and another 
$25.00 from John Krepfl in addition to a $ 100 donation from Vladimir Rus148 
Stanley Ziherl reported approximately $ 21,600 is in the treasury at this time. 
Since the American Home Publishing Company has been financing the air mail 
cost of the American Home Weekly to Slovenia (approximately $ 231.65), 
motion was made by John Pestotnik, second by Ann Opeka we renew the sub-
scriptions for another 6 months as this is an excellent source for news from 
America. At present, copies are being sent to Bojan in Italy,149 Siovenska 
Izseljenska Matica, Druzina, Kucan, Slovenec and Peterle. 
It was reported that Japan and Libya recognized Slovenia on March 17th. 
Matt Susel reported that he received a letter from Ernest Petric in 
Washington and it now appears that we are looking for recognition from the 
• • • 
147 Albert Gore; mjen lei .. 1948, p<xJprcdscdnik Zdruzcnih drz:.tv, dcmokl'"dlSki kongrcsnik in senator, diplomi-
ral na Harvardu in na pravni fakultelj Vanderbilt University, udele1.cncc vojnc v Victnamu, izvoljen v 95. kon-
gres let ... 1976 in tri naslcdnjc kongresc, 6.111984 izvoljcn v sena!, ponovno jzvoljcn v senat 6. 11. 1990 in 3. 
11. 1990 jc hi! izvoljen za podprcdscdnika ZOA in zapriscgct 20. 1. 1993. Ponovno izvoJjcn za podprcdscdnik:! 
novcmbra 1990 
148 Rojen leta 1925 na Reki na Hrva~kem, studiral politicne vede na Ir2a~ki univerzi, slavistiko na Western 
Reserve University ter na University of Michigan. Zaposlen je bi! kot docent na Case Western University v 
Clevclandll ler kat administrator na CUyahoga Community Colegel! in v clevclandski mcstni hi.~i . Je tudi 
lIstanovni clan Slovene Heritage Foundation ref .~tevilnih drugih slovcnskib izseljenskih in mestnih organizacij 
v Clcvclandu. 
149 Rojen lew 1948 v Trstu. Studiral ekonomijo na univerzi v Trstu. V [etih 19$4-1985 dopisnik Prill10rskcga 
dncvnika v Rimu. Konec lela 1992 ~Iavni urcdnik Primorskega dncvnika in IjubJjanske Republike, danes 
odgovorni uredniK Primorskega dm."Vnika. Ustanovni clan italijanskc manj.~inske organizacije CONFEMILIleta 
1984, od ICIa 1990 njen predstavnik pri Evropskem uradu za manj ra~irjcne jezi kc. V letih 1988-92 poslanec 
dcze!ncga svcta Furhmijc-Julijskc krdjine.1988 deze!ni svelovalcc na listi S!ovcnskc skupnosti. Prvi predscdnik 
Slovcnskcga svctovnega kongrcsa (199]), 
7 
RQzorave in grodivo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 115 
U.S.A. the week of April 6 thru the 10th. 
A lengthy discussion ensued relative to the impending recognition and 
plans for our celebrations. Stane Kuhar will check with Father Boznar to see if 
any plans are being made to have a Mass prior to the initial celebration. He will 
report back to Joe Valencic. There are many things to be considered. Will the 
SNDI50 be available' If recognition comes during Easter Week, we may have to 
hold up any celebration. Many aspects of the celebration are already covered. 
The menu will be simple; bartenders are on call; Slovenian Flags are available 
thrll U.S.S. Also, local radio announcers and newspapers will be contacted 
immediately for publicity since this will be open to everyone. Letters have been 
sent to all the Slovene Choruses to see if they will participate with the combined 
singing of the two Anthems (American and Slovene) and to be prepared to sing 
one other song, time permitting. 
We also discussed at length the people that we would consider inviting for 
the formal celebration. Some of the suggestions included: Dr. Ernest Petrie" 
Senators John Glenn and Dole; Congressman Dennis Eckart and Charles Kuralt. 
Since we seem to be "whistling in the dark" until we know the exact date, what 
we're hoping for is that word may leak out of Washington and we would have a 
little time to plan. 
Stane Kuhar also wondered what we will do with any remaining funds in our 
Treasury when recognition is accomplished. Edmund Turk felt making plans at 
the present time would be a bit premature. However, we are all in agreement 
that an accounting is necessary and all the income, expenses, etc. will all be 
publicized in the American Home. 
We did not make any plans for the next meeting as this too, will depend on 
whether or not Slovenia is about to be recognized. Keeping in mind the fact that 
we may hear something "via the grape vine" we should leave ourselves open for 
the next meeting, whenever it comes up. 
Motion to adjourn at 8:55 P.M. by Jean Krizman, second by Joe Valencic. 
Passed. 
••• 
150 Slovcnski narodnl dom. 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
116 Zapisniki "United Americans for Slovenia'" 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF APRIL 30, 1992 
Chairman Edmund Turk called the meeting to order at 7,42 P.M. Since the 
minutes of the previous meeting were unavailable at this time, they will be read 
and approved at our next meeting. 
Stanley Ziher! reported $ 21,056.00 is the balance in our account at the pres-
ent time. However, some expenditures will have to be approved at this meeting 
in conjunction with the April 10th spontaneous celebration at the Slovenian 
National Home. Joe Valencic reported that there were approximately 750 peo-
ple in attendance and at least 100 singers appeared on stage during the pro-
gram. It was quite an impressive turnout on such short notice. All three (3) TV 
Stations and The Plain Dealer reporters were on hand. 
The income for the evening was $ 2,256.25 and the expenditures were $ 
3,545.00. It appears Ihat our cost wi ll be somewhere in the ne ighbourhood of $ 
1,200 to $ 1,300.00. Motion by John Pestotnik, second by Edwin Polsak to pay 
all the bills was unanimously passed. Edmund Turk thanked everyone fo r their 
help in both the bar and kitchen as well as publicity, etc. A list of all of the 
volunteers is needed so that they can be thanked. A motion by Betty Ro tar, 
second by Edwin Polsak to pay for all the minor sundry items was also 
approved by all. 
Both Ke n Tomsick,151 and George Knaus,ls, took tapes on the April 10th 
celebration. The tapes are almost two hours long. These tapes are available for 
$ 10.00 each; Florence Unetich 153 also has tapes of the July, 1991 War available 
at at $ 20.00 if anyone is interested in purchasing them. Edwin Polsak suggested 
that a tape be kept in our archives for future posterity. It will be done. Several of 
the members expressed an interest in purchasing the above tape. 
Edmu nd Turk then expounded on the official reception that was held in 
Washinton, D.C. on Tuesday, April 28th. Three plaques were ordered and 
presented to Senators Dole and Glenn as well as Rep. Eckart with appropriate 
* * * 
151 Aktivcn pri arncrisko-slovcnskcfll radijskcm klllbll; oee glasbcnika in povczov,lka rad ijskih {xldaj Joseph:! 
lornsicka. 
152 Clcvelandski trgovcc ... ncprcmicninami in povczovalec radijskih oddaj. 
153 Clcvclandska profcsorica angleskcga jczika na srcdnji sol i in dolgo]ctna prcdsednica Progrcsivnih sloven-
skih ;;.en a Amcrikc. 
d 
7 
Rozpraye jn gradivo Ljubljana 1999 si. 34 117 
messages conveying ou r thanks for their leadership and suppo rt in attaining 
U.S. recognition of Slovenia. The cost of these plaques was $ 198.00 and a 
mo tion was made by Gene Kogovsek, second by Gene Drobnic, we approve 
payment. Passed. Edmund Turk would also like permission to get two 
additional plaques to be presented to Congo Oberstar and Harkin 154 for their 
assistance in gett ing U.S.A. approval. Permission granted. 
Jim Debevec, Owner of the American Home Weekly reported that a Special 
Edition wil l be published at the end of Mayor the early part o f June which will 
highlight some events that took place and what the UAS did to help Slovenia's 
cause. It wi ll be at least an 8 Pg. Edition on a heavier paper and will include the 
list of donors as well as the fi nancial report and breakdown of expenses 
incurred. f'ollowing a short discllssion, Frances Maurie moved, second by John 
Pestotnik that the UAS pay for a minimum of three (3) pages of this edition and, 
if necessa ry, even a forth (4th) page. Motion approved. This com memorative 
issue lS5 will be sent to each donor/volunteer who assisted in any way during the 
UAS's existe nce. In addi tion, a "thank you" letter and an appropriate pin will be 
enclosed in the mai ling. This action will be followed through in lieu of a dinner 
party as was previously discussed. A motion by Edwin Polsak, second by Ann 
Opeka to go ahead with this plan was unanimously passed by all. 
Edmund Turk then suggested that we consider presenting some type of 
significant permanent plaque or monument to AMLA for the use of their 
facilities during this past year. Edmund also suggested appropriate plaques be 
presented to Kollander World Travel Agency, WELW-1330 AM for four (4) hours 
of air time, the American Home \'V'eekly for their extensive coverage and, 
perhaps, others who donated to help in this endeavour. A lengthy discussion 
ensued with many ideas being presented. However, a presentation of this 
magni tude should be thoroughly discussed and, taking Stan Ziherl 's suggestion 
that he would bring the idea up at a future Supreme Board meeting for possible 
input, the discussion was tabled. 
We also discussed briefly, the possibility of having an appropriate 
plaque/monu ment in Ljubljana, perhaps in the Squa re, in recogni tion of the 
independence o f Slovenia. Here again, much thought will have to be given 
* * * 
154 TO[11 Harkin; roj . leta 1939 v CUlllmin}l, Iowa. Senator iz lowe. Diploll1iral na low;t St;uc University in pravni 
fakulteti Ctlthotic.: Ilniversity of Allleric.:a v W;t.~hingtonu . Koavtor "Five Minutes to Midnight: Why the Nudear 
Threats is Growing Faster than Ever". V letih ] 974-1984 clan preds\<lvni.~kega doma ;tmeriskega kongres<l , od 
lela 1984 dalje dcmokratski senator. 
155 AmerBka uomovina - posehna izdaja (American Home - commemorative issue), maja 1992. 
liB 19pisniki "United Americans for SlovenioH 
before action is taken. 
Stanly Ziherl elaborated on the official reception in Washington D.C. He 
quite picturesquely explained who was in attendance and the proceedings of 
the entire evening. 
Some of the Clevelanders present were: Stan Ziherl, Edmund Turk, Dr. 
Bonutti, Charles Ipavec, the Kollanders156, Tim McCormick & spouse,157 Robert 
Tomsichl5~ and spouse (who donated $ 1,000 to cover expenses of the recep-
tion). Altogether, approximately lOa people were in attendance. 
Edmund asked Father Bozoar if he thought it would be timely to have a Mass 
at the Cathedral in the near future. Father Bozoar suggested that Edmund 
himself approach Bishop Pevec to see when it would be feasible. Joe Valencic 
mentioned that perhaps it would be appropriate to celebrate Slovenia's 
independence and U.S.A. recognition on or about June 25th which would be 
anniversary date of the cessation from YugoslaVia. It's an excellent idea, but 
much will depend on Bishop Pevec's itinerary. Edmund Turk will contact the 
Bishop. 
Edmund Turk thanked Joe Valencic for the stupendous job he did of corre-
lating the spontaneous celebration in two and one-half days. In addition, Joe 
also was responsible for the wording on the plaques which were presented to 
the political dignitaries. A much deserved "round of applause" was given Joe for 
all his time and effort in behalf of the UAS Committee. 
Hearing no other comments or discussion the chair asked for adjournment 
at 8:50 P.M. Members were asked to speak a few words for the video tape that 
will be sent to Slovenia and also to look at the pictures that were taken at the 
Washington D.C. reception. 
Our next meeting will be held on May 14th at 7:30 P.M. 
* * * 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
156 CIani druzinc podjctniknv, lastnikov potovalne agencije iz Clevelanda. 
157 Nadzornik okraja Cuyahoga, [eta 1999 okrajni pooblaUcncc (County CommiSSioner) v okraju Cuyahoga. 
158 Prcdscdn ik podjctja NESCO. 
? 
Razprgve in gradivg Ljubljana 1999 St 34 119 
Members present: 
Edmund Turk, Joe Valeneie, Edwin Polsak, Gene Kogovsek, Karl Bonutti, 
Tony Hiti, Father J. Bozoar, Gene Drobnik, Cirila Kermavner, Stanley Ziherl, Jim 
Debevee, Fran Maurie, Ann Opeka, John Pestotnik, Stane Kuhar, Betty Rotar, 
Sophie Opeka (Guest). 
120 Zapisniki uUniled Americans for Slovenia" 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF AUGUST 24, 1992 
Chairman Edmund Turk called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M. Minutes of 
the April 30th meeting were read by Edwin Polsak (since Recording Secretary 
Betty Rotar would be late for this meeting). There being no additions or cor-
rections, the minutes were approved on a motion by Gene Kogovsek, second by 
An n Opeka. Passed. 
Edmund Turk reported that the Commemorative Issue of the American 
Home will be printed and available approximately Labor Day. It will contain a 
chronological listing of the names and money people donated toward 
Slovenia's independence. Listed also will be the monies spent and a brief treas-
ury report. Many members in attendance were not even aware that there had 
been solicitations for ads for this issue and wondered why they had not been 
informed. Apparently, the solicitations were printed in the weekly American 
Home and not thru letter or any other means, except "word of mouth". John 
Pestotnik felt that the people who were a party to this operation should have 
something printed in that issue. Discussion that followed revealed that the 
United Americans for Slovenia will have at least three (3) pages including pic-
tures and additional material gleened from our files. 
Stanley Ziherl reported $ 19,715.00 in the checking account with no checks 
w ritten since May. 
At this time, Jim Debevec e ntered the meeting room and reported that all 
material must be in by next Tuesday, Noon. He anticipates at least a 16 Pg. 
Edition, perhaps more. The bulk of the newspaper will be ads, the rest will con-
stitute articles from various groups and pictures as well informative articles 
relating to the measures that were taken to insure the Independence of 
Slovenia. The Commemorative Issue itself will be printed on a "high quality" 
paper. 
John Pestotnik touched on the mailing of the Commemorative Issue along 
with a Certificate of Appreciation. He would like to have several people from 
the Committee meet with him following this meeting to discuss the possibility 
of a pin or other suitable gift. Thus far, only people who have donated $ 1,000 
have received flags of Slovenia; $ 500 donors received white hats. 
c 
b 
Razorove in grodiyo Ljubljana 1999 st. 3.4 121 
Edmund Turk again talked about the plaques which he felt should be pre-
sented to: AMLA, American Home, WELW/fony Petkovsek/Kollander, the 
Sloven ian Embassy in Washington and to Slovenia. The chair moves authoriza-
tion to spend approximately $65.00 each for these plaques. Second by Joyce 
Pie mel. The motion was amended to a $ 100.00 amount for each and these 
plaques will be suitable for Board Room mounting. 
In regard to the bronze plaque for Slovenia, Linda Cimperman, via letter thru 
the Ministry of Slovenia, reported that there will be a meeting of the UAS on 
August 27th, at which time an expenditure of & 2,000-$3,000 will be discussed. 
Linda has prepared the information sent to us, covering the expenditure and 
details and proposed location of the same. In the discussion that followed , 
some of the areas for the plaque location to be considered were "in the park" or 
on the Parliament Building. Further discussion ensued with Edmund Turk end-
ing same announcing he will appoint a committee to come up with the word· 
ing and size and other factual information. Ed Polsak moved it is much too early 
in the development of Independent Slovenia to put up a plaque or wherever we 
have in mind. We need to research and investigate and decide later. Second by 
Ann Opeka. Motion passed with one objection, Stane Kuhar. 
Edmund Turk also reported that he had a telephone call asking for the mail-
ing list which was compiled by the UAS membership and personally felt that he 
had no authority to give it to anyone without UAS membership approval. 
Motion by Stane Kuhar, second by Edwin Polsak that, in the future, if anyone 
needs/wants the list, the request should come up at a meeting for approval. 
Motion passed. Karl Bonutti suggested that if there is an activity or project that 
benefits the whole community, the Chair should have the judgement to 
approve. 
Father Boznar reported that he had no meeting with Bishop Pevec. However, 
the date for the Mass of Thanksgiving will be Sunday, November 8 tho 
Gene Kogovsek brought up the point of what will happen with the funds 
after we have paid all of our bills; the commemorative issue of the American 
Home as well as the plaque for Slovenia. He was assured that we will have 
another meeting and a final disposition of the Committee. 
Because of the uncertainty of when the Committee will be asked to do a 
mailing on the Commemorative Issue/Appreciation Certificate or a ruling on 
the plaque for Slovenia, the Chair will call the next meeting. 
122 Zopisniki "United Americans for Siovenja" 
Motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 P.M. by Joe Petrie, second by Cirila 
Kermavner. Passed. 
Members Present: 
Respectfully submitted, 
Betty Rotar, Recording Secretary 
Edmund Turk, Joe Valencic, Edwin Polsak,Gene Kogovsek, Karl Bonutti, 
Father Joseph, Boznar, Gene Drobnik, Rudy Susel, Tony Petkovsek, Joe Petrie, 
Jim Debevec, Cirila Kermavner, Stanley Ziherl, Franc Maurie, Ann Opeka, John 
Pestotnik, Stane Kuhar, Joyce Pie mel, Betty Rotar. 
s 
b 
Razprave in gradjvo Ljubljana 1999 St. 3.4 
AGENDA 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
AUGUST 31, 1992 
123 
1. COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE, NAMES OF DONORS, AMOUNTS, ADDI-
TIONAL COPY: J. DEBEVEC, JOE VALENCIC 
2. MAILING OF COMM. ISSUE, INSERTS & CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIA-
TION 
3. APPRECIATION PLAQUES, AMLA, RADIO CLUB, AMERICAN HOME, 
KOLLANDER, WELW. ANY OTHER' 
4. MONUMENT OF PLAQUE, INSTALLATION AND EXPENSE, SLOVENIA 
5. MAILING LIST OF UAS 
6. NEW BUSINESS 
7. TIME & PLACE OF NEXT MEETING 
124 
UNITED AMERICANS FOR SLOVENIA 
MINUTES OF MEETING OF MAY 5, 1994 
Present: 
Chairman Ed. Turk, 
Ann Opeka 
Joe Valencic 
John Pestotnik, 
Tony Hiti 
Stan Kuhar Joyce Plemel 
Zgpisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
Dr. Karl Bonutti 
Stanley Ziherl 
Frances Maurie 
Joe Boskovic Gene Kogovsek Florence Unetich (arr. 8:00 P.M.) 
Betty Rotar (arr. 8:30 P.M.) 
(When arrived, Dr. Bonutti appeared to be explaining why the March 27th 
reception for President Kucan was held at Slovenian National Home rather than 
at AMLA as original plan had been. Answer: Later decision was made to invite 
all those who had financially or through volunteer efforts assisted the work of 
UAS to achieve recognition for Slovenia. That precluded a reception at AMLA for 
a larger facility was needed.) 
Discussion moved to whether or not it was appropriate fo r UAS funds to 
cover expenses of the event. A request for costs thus far received showed a total 
of approximately $ 2450.00, itemized as follows: 
Hall rental 
Postage 
Invitations 
Refreshments 
$ 
176.00 
200.00 
Button Box Group 100.00 
U.S.S. Band 100.00 
Photography 
Motion by Ann Opeka seconded by Fran Maurie that UAS cover the 
expenses which should be capped at $ 2.700.00. Discussion followed. Stan 
Kuhar stated donations were not made for this kind of event. Expressed 
rl 
b 
Razprave in gradivo Ljubljana 1999 st. 34 125 
opinion that people would not cooperate in future. Chairman Turk stated he 
viewed the visit of the President of Republic of Slovenia as a culminating event 
in the recognition drive. The call for a vote on the motion showed unanimous 
approval with the exception of a "nay" vote by Stan Kuhar. 
Dr. Bonutti referred to May 10th reception in Washington, D.C., in honor of 
Foreign Minister Lojze Peterle, and to celebrate opening of new Embassy of 
Slovenia. Dr. Petrie had suggested to Dr. Bonutti that a painting, representing 
Bishop Baraga's missionary work with North American Indians, to hang in the 
Embassy as a gift of Slovenian-Americans would be much appreciated. Since 
time had not allowed for contracting well-known artists either in Slovenia or 
USA, Dr. Bonuni had contracted with Damjan Kreze of Mural Art Gallery to do 
such a painting. Kreze agreed and offered to donate the frame. Painting 
measures 3 x 5' and cost is $ 1000.00. Required deposit of $ 400.00 was made by 
Dr. Bonutti; painting is presently in Mural Art Gallery. 
Discussion followed. A question raised on whether or not it is a function of 
UAS to fund the painting was resolved by agreement that the plaque should 
indicate the painting is in commemoration of the recognition of Slovenia by the 
USA. Chairman Turk suggested the plaque shou ld also state that the painting 
was presented by United Americans for Slovenia and dedicated to all Slovenian 
Americans who had worked for the recognition. Furthermore, it should include 
the names of all the organizations which are part of UAS. A question on the size 
of the UAS treasury revealed it totalled $ 16,000. 
Question raised on where the suggestion of the Baraga subject came from 
was answered by Dr. Bonutti. He stated it came from the Embassy. Reportedly, 
Dr. Petric feels it as appropriate for the RS Embassy an America as the bas-relief 
_of the investiture of the Dukes of Carinthia which came from Slovenia. Tony Hiti 
moved, Stan Ziherl seconded that the UAS cover the cost of $ 1000.00 plus 
expenses to bo incurred for plaque. Motion was unanimously approved with 
the exception of one "nay" vote from Stan Kuhar. 
Chairman Turk brought up bills on hand for mailing the AMERICAN HOME 
via ai rmail to various individuals/ departments in Slovenia. UAS had authorized 
the postage cost during the campaign for recognition; American Home 
Publishing keeps sending copies to Slovenia. Should the mailings be continued 
and how long' Discussion followed. S. Kuhar insisted a letter from Father 
Boznar must be read. Declaring S. Kuhar out of order, Chairman Turk stated he 
had a copy of Fr. Boznar's letter and would read it, but mailing issue had to be 
concluded first. Motion made by S. Kuhar, seconded by John Pestotnik that the 
126 ZQpisniki "United Americans for Slovenia" 
subscriptions be concluded May 31st and what is owed is to be paid, but no 
postage bills are to be accepted after the end of May, 1994, Motion passed unan-
imously. S. Ziherl is to get the total bills. 
Chairman Turk read the letter from Fr. Boznar who could not attend the 
meeting. Letter referred to formation of the UAS as an ad hoc committee formed 
to help achieve recognition, which objective was reached 2 years ago. Fr. 
Boznar questioned why committee was still active and requested a definitive 
plan to bring the committee to an end. 
Discussion followed. Chairman Turk stated special meeting must be held to 
vote on dissolution and members must be advised of nature of meeting. Motion 
made by F. Mauric, seconded by G. Kogovsek that Chairman Turk calls special 
meeting. Afte r seve ral tries, June 20th 7:30 P.M. was agreed upon as the date 
when all present were available for the meeting. Question was then raised as to 
what concluding projects or tasks had already been decided upon and had not 
yet been accomplished. Ed Polsak asked that minutes be checked to determine 
what remains uncompleted. Joe Valencic stated a mailing to donors (as previ-
ously agreed upon) cannot be accomplished by the meeting date. Further dis-
cussion suggested the dissolution process might take some weeks. Chairman 
requested that members be notified of the June 20th meeting by letter. Meeting 
adjourned, approximately 10.00 PM. 
Florence Unetich 
Rgzprave in gradjyo Ljubljana 1999 St. 34 127 
BIOGRAFSKI VIRI 
Klemencic Matjaz: Slovenes of Cleveland. The Creation of the New Nation 
and a New World Community. Slovenia and the Slovenes of Cleveland, Ohio. 
Novo mesto, Dolenjska zalozba, 1995. 
Menase Luc: Svetovni biografski leksikon. Mihelac, Ljubljana 1994 
Enciklopedija Slovenije, Mladinska knjiga, Ljubljana 
Primorski biografski leksikon. Goriska Mohorjeva druzba, Gorica. 
Who is Who of Slovene Descent in the United States. 1995 Revised Edition. 
New York. Society for Slovene Studies. Compiled and edited by Joseph 
Velikonja and Rado L. Lencek. 
Who is Who in the US Congress. Washington DC. Government Printing 
Office 1990.