Zarja — The Dawn MAY-JUNE, 1993 ZARJA - THE DAWN DATES TO REMEMBER (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 NO. 5-6 MAY-JUNE, 1993 VOL. 65 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze. Published monthly except January, June <£ August — izhaja vsak mesec razen januar, junij in avgust. Annual Subscription for non-members, $15.00 — naročnina $15.00 letno za ne-članice. Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926 Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, !L All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu. Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 Telephone: (312) 548-8878 HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN MAY & JUNE National Officer: May 1 - Jean Korsman, Minnesota Regional President, Biwabik, MN Presidents: May 11 - Christine Konte, Br. 66, Canon City, CO May 12 - Barbara Spritzer, Br. 92, Gunnison, CO May 25 - Frances Yerman, Br. 57, Niles, OH June 15 -June 24 - Secretaries: Robin Marolt, Br. 17, West Allis, WI Genevieve Safran, Br. 27, Braddock, PA 3 -6 -7 - May May May May 13 -May 13 -May 17 -May 27 -May 28 - June 2 -June 3 -June 8 -June 11 -June 19 -June 29 - Anna Anderson, Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA Gladys Buck, Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL Josephine Argubright, Br. 89, Oglesby, IL Helen McFarland, Br. 66, Canon City, CO Mary Mejac, Br. 103, Washington, D.C. Marge Mollica, Br. 57, Niles, OH Anka Kregar, Br. 55, Girard, OH Linda Lambright, Br. 6, Barberton, OH Blanche Laurich, Br. 81, Keewatin, MN Jane Hudak, Br. 74, Ambridge, PA Anne Pavelič, Br. 8, Steelton, PA Betty Stack, Br. 24, LaSalle, IL Dorothy Brezonik, Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI Elizabeth Spolar, Br. ’56, Hibbing, MN May 11 June 6 June 23 June 27 May 1 - May 1 - May 2 -May 2 -May 4 - May 4 May 5 May 7 May 8 May 9 May 11 May 11 May 12 May 13 May 13 May 13 • May 16 ■ May 13 May 16 May 16 ■ May 18 ■ May 19 -May 19 -May 19 ■ May 23 - May 25 -May 26 - PRIZE PROJECT, Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH 65TH ANNIVERSARY MASS, Br. 20, Joliet, IL, 8:30 a.m. ANNUAL PICNIC, Br. 50, Euclid, Oh, Euclid Park Clubhouse, 1 p.m. SUNDAY BRUNCH, Br. 13, San Francisco, CA, after mass, Slovenian Hall. Mother’s Day Celebrations Br. 47, Garfield, OH, Quinn’s Restaurant (Solon), 1 p.m. Br. 100, Fontana, CA at Millie’s Restaurant, 5:30 p.m. Br. 35, Aurora, MN at Megan’s Restaurant, 3 p.m. Br. 38, Chisholm, MN, 7:30 p.m. Br. 14, Euclid, OH, 6 p.m. Call Vera Bajec, 481-7473 Br. 19, Eveleth, MN, Holiday Inn, 1 p.m. Br. 33, Duluth, MN Br. 101, Bedford, OH Br. 105, Detroit, Ml, call (313) 751-0513 Br. 17, West Allis, WI, Kegel’s Inn, 12:30 Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH, Dinner, 4 p.m. call Millie Lipnos - 662-2252 Br. 57, Niles, OH at Paul’s Restaurant Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI at Pleasant Valley Inn Br. 2, Chicago, IL, Mass at 7:30 followed by party, Lower Hall Br. 5, Indianapolis, IN at SND, 11 a.m. Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL Br. 40, Lorain, OH, German Villa, 2 p.m. call 988-7768 Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI, Mass and Brunch, call Aggie 452-8808 Br. 103, Washington, D.C. Br. 20, Joliet, IL, St. Joe’s Park, 6:30 p.m. Br. 32, Euclid, OH Br. 54, Warren, OH, Elks, Rt. 422, I p.m. Br. 55, Girard, OH, also 60th Anniversary Br. 13, San Francisco, CA, Marriott Hotel, 11 a.m. call Jo Aiuto 863-8632 Br. 50, Cleveland, OH at Sterle’s Br. 10, Cleveland, OH at SND Holmes Ave. 1 p.m. call 744—4954 or 531-7635 MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY! CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WOMEN OF THE YEAR HONOREES AND BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! From Branch 42 Maple Heights, Ohio NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE GLORIOUS MONTHS AHEAD FOR US! What a difference a day makes—having had a cold, windy, and snowy week in Joliet while attending the Board meeting, we were welcomed home to Northern Minnesota with warm, sunny weather. With temperatures ranging from 50 to 65 degrees, the snow is rapidly disappearing. We shall never forget tyhe day it snowed in Joliet; National Vice President Beverly Jackson of the San Francisco area couldn’t be happier in the midst of a picturesque snowfall. She took countless snapshots while in this euphoric state. We, who live in the Snow Belt for months realized how often we take for granted the grandeur of nature’s beauty. We’re entering into the most exciting months ahead of us and without a doubt, the busiest and most gratifying. For months we’ve been planning our gardens, deciding whether the windows need a fresh coat of paint, and an endless list of what must be done when warmer weather comes. Sometimes it becomes overwhelming but doing one job at a time, we methodically complete our projects. A lesson that I learned at an early age was that we must enjoy what we are doing, then no task is difficult to undertake. Two beautiful Slovenian dolls hand made by Beverly Jackson were awarded to Jonita Ruth for recruiting the greatest number of new members in our Phase II Membership Campaign, “Slovenians, We’re United!” Effective since April i>, 1993 our Phase III Membership Campaign has begun, the slogan being: "Slovenian Wisdom Unsurpassed.” An original oil painting by artist, Damjan Kreze of Cleveland will be awarded to the top recruiter. Let’s get some competition going with Jonita Ruth who diligently seeks to enroll new members. We’re midway between conventions and it’s time to think and plan for Convention 1995, dates set for May 19, 20, 21, 1995. San Francisco, our host city. will undoubtedly be expensive; however, the Board decided we can no longer pay for per diems and airfare. It will be the responsibility of each branch to defray the greater portion of the delegate’s expenses. The Home Office will only allow each delegate $225.00. Many of our members who do a great deal of traveling know that we don’t always get “cheap” rates. San Francisco is a very popular vacation area so please start making your plans early; perhaps families could plan their vacations at that time. There comes a time when one must view conventions realistically and objectively. Begin by planning on sending a delegate who is interested in the welfare of our organization. Sending a delegate "for a good time” or “to make money” or “we don't dare vote for another person because she’s always gone before” are archaic and obsolete. Our future depends on members who are deeply committed and interested in the preservation of our S.W.U. culture and heritage. The opportunities to channel our resources of our Culture and Heritage are greater ever since the United States government recognized Slovenia as a sovereign nation and subsequently established the Slovenian Embassy in Washington, D.C. We are no longer asked, “Where is Slovenia?” Interest in research and tracing one’s genealogy increased dramatically within the past year. To all of our mothers, Happy Mother’s Day and congratulations to our S.W.U. Mothers/Women of the Year who will be honored by their respective branches. This is a special tribute which every branch is requested to follow. Ask any member who was honored and they will attest to the glowing memories of their Mother/Woman of the Year celebration. May your summer with family and friends be glorious, relaxing and prayerful! O I Victoria “Tory" Bobence <3n our organization of exceptional women, we have many mothers, grandmothers, great grandmothers and great great grandmothers. We have many women whose love and mothering is equally unselfish, each of you, our hearts sing out a wish for blessings now and for eternity. To a *ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft * -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft £ * -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft ☆ A Time To He Gentle The soft winds, the blue calm soft winds, soft and good to bring serenity and peace are here - so that quickly the heart finds the place once more where the angel abides, where a rose garden in silence is kept at it’s side and where the very touch of ourselves rests in a land amidst the moon. - In a time to be gentle given to us so often when r.ot a word is needed or said, when we stop to look at the trees at noon and how the sun traces it’s love on the roofs of the houses instead. When we stop to see into another’s heart and find how our love has been gathered there, when we stop to notice the pace of our life has been slowed and lifted in prayer - we proceed on soft winds, blue calm winds, soft and good in eastern angel time beyond the distance of earth or rhyme on winds that lift the angel’s wings and in song only a human heart can sing. — Klima “She uses song to add to life's joy” is the heading of a story about soprano, Diane Klima, that we read in the Skokie (Chicago Suburban) Life newspaper. Diane and her mother are members of SWU and have participated in local Slovenian activities. When Diane is performing, she often wears the national costumes of the countries she is depicting. Her beautiful appearance in these costumes “may symbolize the ghost of ourselves coming back to remind us of what is important in our lives” she says. Diane also explains that the Slavic costumes are in the colors of the heart, with the predominant color of red used in flowers and designs. She is a former Miss Chicago runner up and DePaul University award soloist at Orchestra Hall in Chicago and is the recipient of the prestigious Polish Arts Club Marcella Sembrich Kochanska Award. She has traveled to Poland and other European countries during her singing tours. Diane is also a poet and has submitted this poem for our enjoyment which we dedicate to all Mothers. Julia Petrich Br. 2, Chicago, IL The 1993 Woman of the Year from Br. 2 is Julie Petrich, a member of 30 years. She was born in Plešivica, Brezovica, near Ljubljana, Slovenia, on February 16, 1923, the daughter of Anton and Maria Brencic. She had three sisters, Frances, Maria, Ivanka and a brother, Tony. Julie and Ivanka are the only surviving members of the family. Julie’s family arrived in the U.S. on Oct. 26, 1949 and settled temporarily in Louisville, Kentucky, then moved to Chicago on April 3rd, 1950. she met her future husband, Frank, at a Slovenian play at St. Stephen’s church hall. Julie and Frank were married at St. Stephen’s on January 27, 1951 by Fr. Innocent Ferjan, OFM. (This was the first marriage officiated by Fr. Innocent when he came to this parish.) Julie and Frank became the proud parents of two sons, Frank, Jr. and Joseph and a daughter, Julia. Frank is the proprietor of Burdeen Shoe Store on Cermak Rd., Joseph is an industrial engineer located in Korea and Julie is -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft gij-t lčl to Zo<-7£...ouzij to cfzzzLitz it... -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft -ft cJ-fctfifiy ^A/[ot(zzz d J^>axj £0 ouz ^^/{/{otfzzzi-^Womsn of tfzs, ^ljs,ax, 1C) 93! a homemaker in Chicago. There are eight grandchildren, the pride and joy of grandma and grandpa. Julie is an active member in some other organizations, too, such as 42 year member of St. Anne’s KSKJ, 30 years with the Altar and Rosary Society and St. Stephen’s Senior Women’s Club. Every second Sunday for the past 20 years, Julie helps serve breakfast to the members of St. Stephen’s Holy Name, hosted by the Altar and Rosary ladies. She has been a faithful SWU pallbearer, on committee for the annual Altar & Rosary Bunco Party, and in past years served as cook for special parish occasions. The Holy Name Society honored her as Mother of the Year in 1978. Julie enjoys knitting, crocheting, going to Bingo and monthly trips with the St. Stephen’s Senior group. She and her husband, Frank, have for many years enjoying dancing which they were able to do once again at their 40th Anniversary party, when the accompanying photo was taken on page 5. Congratulations Julie! Reporter Mary Kerne TekavEC Br. 3, Pueblo, CO Mary Tekavec, Mother of the Year of Branch 3, is a lifelong resident of Pueblo, Colorado and comes from a family of four children, one of whom is deceased. Mary is President of our Branch and has been a member since 1956. She has been instrumental in getting members to attend meetings and works hard for the betterment of our lodge. She and her husband, Albert, were married for 47 years. He passed away in 1987. She has two children, Carol Shisler and A1 Tekavec. There are six grandchildren and three great granddaughters. Mary is an avid bowler and bowls in three leagues weekly. She loves gardening and cooking, enjoys her social organizations and is past president of the Eagles Auxiliary 3367. Her greatest joy is babysitting her great grandchildren! She is a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church. The members of Branch 3 are proud to honor her as Mother of the Year for 1993. Congratulations, Mary! Kate Osep Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI My aunt, Kate Osep is the Mother of the Year of Br. 12. She was born on February 24, 1907 and has made good use of the 86 years the Lord has already j*iven her. A typical Slovenian mother, she serves Sunday dinner at noon, rain or shine, and no one ever goes home hungry! She fills you up with everything from delicious home-made soup to her famous, one-of-a-kind, out-of-this-world potica, and then, sends you home with a big doggie bag and lots of hugs and kisses! Kate is widowed, has two sons, three grandsons and one great granddaughter. You can imagine how extra special she is to Grandma! Although she is 86, Kate still crochets beautifully, drives her own car, travels, and was still bowling weekly until just a year ago. She’s quite a dynamo! Just a few dates in Kate’s life: She married John Osep on Feb. 28, 1927. was widowed 42 years later and is a member of Br. 12 over 50 years! Kathie Child DorEEn 5ustarich Br. 13, San Francisco, CA Branch 13, San Francisco, is proud to announce that our member Doreen Virginia Sustarich is our 1993 Woman of the Year. Doreen has been a member for 21 years, Branch 13’s auditor for lOyears, and is a third generation S.W.U. member. Doreen is the granddaughter of Katie Judnich, one of Br. 13’s original members, and the daughter of Helen and Frank Sustarich. Mom, Helen was a past financial secretary. Doreen is the twin sister of financial secretary, Moreen Spencer, and niece of our great president, Josephine Aiuto, and auditor, Virginia Sustarich, cousin of treasurer, Michele Twers and auditor, Ann Sustarich. Doreen is proud of her Slovenian heritage, and you can always find her working for Br. 13 in the Slovenian Hall kitchen or putting away tables and chairs. She is also treasurer of the Slovenian Hall Board of Directors, belongs to Club Slovenia, and Slovenian American Fraternal and Beneficial Society. Doreen’s hobbies are cooking and gardening. She brings a lot of fun to us with her enjoyment playing the ac-cordian and tamburitza! And, driving her car... she jumps in and goes... a real road runner. She is always giving someone a helping hand, whether it is going to the store or giving someone a ride, she is there for you. She has the wonderful knack of putting a chuckle in your heart, and a smile on your face. Doreen is loved by everyone, especially her twin sister, Moreen and brother-in-law, Don, and absolutely adored by her twin nephews, Kevin and Kenneth Spencer. Aunty Doreen makes life so much fun. Doreen is a very special person in her unique family. In the last four generations, her family has one set of twins. She and her sister are the third generation, and belong to a special group at the University of California called, California Special Pairs. Our Woman of the Year is a Kranski Hrib girl, going to Patrick Henry, Everett Jr., Mission High School, then attending San Francisco City College and the University of Hawaii. She worked for the Federal Reserve Bank, then went into the food industry, where she is credit manager at S.E. Rykoff/ Sexton Fine Foods. May God bless you Doreen, in all you do, and thank you for being such a wonderful sister. Moreen Mary Sintic Br. 14, Euclid, OH Mary was born May 3, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of Blase and Agnes Klucaric of Slovenian/Croatian descent. She is the eldest of three children, two brothers, Ed and Frank. She attended St. Vitus Catholic Elementary School, Wilson Jr. High, and East High. At the age of sixteen (16), Mary had her first office job and has had several other various positions including owning her own business, a Childrens’ Apparel Shoppe. Her hobbies include knitting, crocheting, flower arrangements, bean bag playing, and balina. She has been married for (47) forty-seven years to her childhood sweetheart, Al Sintič. A1 is a retired machinist and was known as one of the best dancers at Slovenian Home, 64th and St. Clair, fifty “short” years ago. They reside in Collinwood where they have lived the past forty years. At present they are active in bean bag and balina clubs. They love traveling and partying. They have two children, a daughter Gerrie who is a homemaker and married to Councilman Ed Matyja of Wickliffe and they are the parents of five teenage boys, and a son Dale who is a confirmed bachelor living at home with his parents. Mary is the proud grandmother of five boys, Eddie 19, Dennis 18, Mike 16, Russell 15, and Greg 14. Her grandsons, just as her children, think the world of her. They are very close to her and see each other often. She makes things for them such as hats, sweaters, and scarves. She bakes them their favorite desserts and listens to many of their problems and knows most of their secrets. When they were younger she was their favorite baby-sit-ter and best friend. And now that they are older she still, is their best friend and a very much loved grandma. Mary volunteers her services for making memorable events of the clubs’ Mothers Day and Christmas Dinners. She donates many hours into making hand made decorations and special party favors for everyone. Mary is a very generous, warm, and friendly person. She is a very sharp dresser, attractive, has snow white hair, green eyes, and always has a great smile. All of Mary’s immediate family, which includes her husband, children, son-in-law, grandsons, brothers, sisters-in-law, eleven nieces, and nephews, seven great nieces, and nephews and her many friends, agree that she is one very remarkable and beautiful woman. Mary says, “The greatest inspirations in my life are my husband, children, and most of all now, my five grandsons. I have many fond memories, some very personal which include my family and close friends and others I can share such as my trips with my husband to Hawaii, Europe, Caribbean Cruise and our many trips to Las Vegas. “This honor was a complete surprise to me since there are many more deserving members. I thank the members, my friends, and my family for bestowing upon me such a great honor.” Reporter Manda Maggio Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL The members of Branch 16 are proud to honor Manda (Bublich) Maggio as our Mother of the Year for 1993. Manda was born on July 14, 1921 in Chicago and was married to Orlando Maggio on June 28, 1946 at Sacred Heart Church. Her daughter, Kathleen is a Senior Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics for 17 years and has received numerous awards for sales achievements including a pink Cadillac! Her daughter, Denise is a Major Accountant Processor for I. B. Diffusion located in the Merchandise Mart. Manda is retired from the Chicago Board of Education where she spent 29-1/2 years as a Lunch Room Manager. She was also a Head Waitress of the banquet facilities for the IOth Ward Democratic Organization. She is one of the Chief Cooks at St. George Church, planning and preparing many outstanding dinners for their fund-rais- ing projects. In fact, she is featured in the St. George Church Bulletin as Chef A’La N)anda, a title she well deserves for her culinary expertise. Manda is a very active and loyal member of Br. 16. She joined in July of 1969 and attends meetings regularly. She handles the games at the monthly meetings and the raffles at the various affairs. She is the third member of her family to receive this honor. In 1967, her sister, Ana Lustig was chosen Mother of the Year and in 1982, her sister, Mary Bublich was chosen Woman of the Year. Ana was also III.-Ind. Regional Pres, for several years. There are seven members in the Bublich family and they are all proud of the achievements of Ana, Mary and Julie Petrich and husband, Frank RII Mathers of Br. Manda in Br. 16 as well as of their brother, Tony Bublich who is a professional bowler and who is honored in the Bowlers’ Hall of Fame. Her hobbies are bowling, dancing, cooking and baking. In addition to the above activities, Manda is a member of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers of St. George Church, the Senior Choir of St. George Church, the Calumet Park Seniors and the Women’s Club of St. Francis De-Sales Church. Manda will be crowned 1993 Mother of the Year by our 1992 Mother of the Year, Fran Zupančič at a dinner at the Crow Bar Restaurant on Thursday evening. May 13th. There will also be a crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Manda, you are loved by all members, and we wish you a Very Happy Mother’s Day and that you will be blessed with happiness and good health so that you will enjoy all the activities which you are involved in for many years to come. Congratulations! Gladys K. Buck Helen Pizar Br. 17, West Allis, WI It seems as if Helen Pizar has spent most of her life serving others! She shares her gracious and beautiful self in many ways. As a girl, she worked in various stores since she was 16, in her parents’ business and other places such as the Boston Store where she spent 22 years. Now she is a volunteer at the gift shop at West Allis Hospital, a job she greatly enjoys because she can visit with so many people she knows. Helen’s birthplace is Milwaukee, she was born there in 1912, the eldest of four children. She married Joseph Pizar in 1933. He was employed as superintendent at the Medusa Cement Plant and passed away in 1971 after they were married 38 years. Their two daughters are Elizabeth (Beth) who lives in El Paso, TX with her husband, Mike Arthur and son, Michael. Another daughter, Joy, lives in Florida with her husband Joe Mikuliza, two daughters, Mary Grant and Ann, and Mary Tekavec MAY-JUNE, 1993 /5 a son, Michael. Little great granddaughter. Marilyn Smith is the apple of her eye! Helen has many talents. She is known for having a beautiful touch with the knitting and crochet needles! She loves making things and has delighted her family with hand-made afghans, doilies, etc. When they were young, she provided her daughters with many pretty clothes she had sewn for them. Her plants and flowers also benefit from an exceptionally blessed green thumb! And, she says, when the girls were young she enjoyed all their activities with the Brownies and Girl Scouts as a Leader for 20 years or so. Her membership with SWU goes back 19 years. Her sister, Fran Piwoni is our diligent Reporter of Br. 17 and her mother was a member, as is daughter Beth and grandson, Michael. She has also enjoyed membership in Sloga Fraternal Lodge of Wisconsin. Emma RonkairiEn Br. 19, Eveleth, MN Our branch has chosen Emma Ron-kainen for Mother of the Year. She has been an active and supportive member of Branch 19 since 1984. A May 4th luncheon will be held in her honor at the Holiday Inn in Eveleth starting at 1:00 p.m. Mrs. Ronkainen was born and raised in a Ely, MN. Her parents were Mr. & Mrs. Frank Miklaucic, and she had three brothers and two sisters. After graduating from high school she owned and operated the Ely Shopper for four years. Emma was married to Donald Ronkainen in 1950. They moved to Virginia, MN in 1951, where they owned and operated the Cottage Grocery for 25 years. The Ronkainen’s have four children, Gerold and Donald residing in Virginia, and Mike and Shirley, living in Minneapolis. Emma has six grandchildren . Emma likes to spend her leisure time doing puzzles, baby-sitting grandchildren, and traveling. She is a member of Holy Spirit Church, Moose Club Auxiliary, AFU #2, and SWU, Br. 19. Please make your reservations for the luncheon with Mary Vranikar 741-0401. Everyone is welcome! Vida Lanari, Secretary Helen Horwath Br. 20, Joliet, IL Branch 20’s “1993 Woman of the Year” is Helen Horwath. Helen was the unanimous choice of the branch’s newly-established Woman of the Year Committee. Helen has been a very active member of the Slovenian Women’s Union for the past 28 years. Actually, she has faithfully served in two of our branches — #103 in Washington, D.C. as a charter member, and then #20, Joliet. Helen was born in Joliet, but her family’s roots are in Slovenia. Her mother, Josephine (Cankar) was born in Ljubljana, and her father, Joseph Horvat, was from Novo Mesto. One of her mother’s relatives is the famed Slovenian author, Ivan Cankar. As one of Slovenia’s foremost writers, many of his books are in the Library of Congress of the United States. Helen and her two sisters and two brothers all attended St. Joseph’s grade school in Joliet. She graduated from Providence High school and attended several colleges. Because her work with the federal government took her on many assignments, Helen never was able to obtain her degree. She retired from the U.S. Federal Service in 1964 and returned to Joliet. For the next ten years she worked for Silver Cross Hospital’s director of nursing and public relations director. She retired in 1975. In 1976 Helen spearheaded the work of our Slovenian Heritage Museum and got involved in the Illinois Historical Society and the Congress of Historical Illinois Small Museums (CHSM). She conducted tours of our Museum and enabled us to become a part of the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor. Helen submitted the film titled “Golden Times”, which was produced by Irene Odorizzi, to CHISM. Subsequently, Irene was recognized for her work at their annual meeting in Springfield, IL. In addition to her work on behalf of CHISM and the I & M Corridor, Helen was very active in setting up shows and recruiting volunteers for our Museum. She and five member/volunteers attended a workshop at Lewis University in preparation for Small Ethnic Museums, presented by CHISM. This workshop stimulated more activity and recognition for our Museum. Helen worked with local Slovenian artists— Lillian Brule, Lucille Dragovan and Karl Pushnik—for a showing of their works. This event was very successful and highly acclaimed by the Joliet community. In 1987 Helen was chairperson of the 21st National Convention held in Joliet. She set up the convention program and successfully guided and organized the committees and volunteers. In 1986 she was co-chairperson for the 60th anniversary celebration of SWU national convention which was also held in Joliet. In between coordinating these major events, Helen also volunteered her services for Branch 20’s other functions such as the annual Grape Harvest Festival and Ethnic Heritage Days in Joliet. Not only did she bring the elderly to our meetings, her car was the bus to anywhere our seniors had to go—-shopping, doctor appointments, church, and such. Non-branch activities included teaching St. Joseph’s Senior Parishioners how to loom rugs and volunteering at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. For her volunteerism she was nominated by St. Joseph’s Senior Parishioners to the Will County Hall of Fame. When St. Joseph’s Church celebrated its Centennial in 1991, Helen involved herself in researching and helping Jim Starasinich compile a history of the parish. Just prior to the actual centennial celebration in June, Helen was felled by a devastating stroke and spent many weeks in the hospital and several more months in a nursing home. Within the past year she has been able to return to her home and care for herself, with just a bit of assistance from a domestic helper. Helen’s loyalty to Br. 20 remains strong. Her role models are Irene Odorizzi and Corinne Leskovar. Says Helen: “Irene and Corinne were my inspiration as they were very supportive and gracious in assisting me with our Museum.” Like Irene and Corinne, Helen is truly an outstanding role model and represents the best qualities of our modern Slovenian women. Proudly submitted by: Woman of the Year Committee: Jonita Ruth, Ann Dragovan, Char Kobe, Pat Figuerowski, Mary Kay Demick and Deanie Gudac •crH'- > 'V ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ Kate Osep Rose Kerntz Br. 23, Ely, MN Rose’s special gift is loving and helping children. This makes her the perfect choice as Br. 23’s Mother of the Year! She spent some time when she was a young lady as a “nanny”, working in Chicago, her first job. Her other special talents are her abilities to create wonderful dishes and pastries in her warm kitchen. Probably, Rose is best known for her world class “potica”! She loves to sew and embroider, too. Rose likes to attend the meetings of Br. 23, to socialize with other members and is always wanting to help. Proof of this is the fact that she has enrolled Mary Sintich some of her grandchildren in the branch and has served on numerous lunch committees. She has never held office but has been the flag-bearer for funerals in the past. Rose was born in Bangor Location in Biwabik on August 31, 1911. Her parents were Frank and Mary Hren. She comes from a family of 8 - her father worked in the mine there, and when Rose was in the 5th or 6th grade, they moved to Ely. Her schooling followed, from Biwabik to Ely, and she was always busy helping her younger brothers and sisters. In 1931, Rose married Frank Kerntz in Ely. Their first home was by Everett Lake where they raised chickens. Then, Rose and Frank moved back to Ely and Frank operated a saw mill while working at the Pioneer Mine at Basswood/Hubacks and lastly, for Lynn Paulson. Rose has been widowed for 32 years - Frank passed away in 1961. She has lived in her home at Chandler Location since they moved back to Ely from Everett Lake. She has three sons who are all funeral directors. Jim, her eldest is married to Mary and they have seven children; Terry is married to Kathy and has four children; and Frank, married to RaeAnn has three children. So there are 8 grandchildren and they spend all of the holidays and many other days together. Rose says she is lucky to have her three sons all in the Ely area. She is able to see the grandchildren often and they all take very good care of her. Some of her great grandchildren still Dareen 5ustarich Helen Pizar and grandson, Michael MAY-JUNE, 1993 /7 Manda Maggia with daughters, Kathy and Denise come Id "Gramma's" when they need baby-sitting while mom and dad are working. Rose is probably one of the warmest, most generous, hospitable persons God created. She loves to chat and has merry blue eyes, silver hair and of course, is a little shortie when standing next to her three tall sons! We call her "Rosie"! She treasures all the moments of her I i fe. Reporter Helen Kunich Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA Our Mother of the Year, Helen Kunich. is a bubbly, laughing, good natured and petite 89-year-old. She lives with a daughter and two granddaughters who do not let her do any chores nowadays and are always willing to chauffeur her to social affairs, meetings, church, etc. Helen is very active, and attends many of the meetings and affairs of the organizations of which she is a member. One of them is the Slovene Pensioners, which meets every second Wednesday of the month. At these meetings, Helen socializes, plays bingo, buys tickets for the various raffles and enjoys the refreshments. She is also an active member of the Zveza and attends most of the monthly meetings. Helen is one of Br. 26’s oldest members and is well loved by all. Some of the other organizations she belongs to are: St. Mary Assumption Church's Christian Mothers and the Lawrenceville Senior Citizens Center. Helen attends many of these group affairs and is always an active participant in whatever is going on. Br. 26 is very happy and proud to have Helen as its member and to name her as their 1993 Mother of the Year. Mary Slaney Lucille U/ickstrnm Br. 28, Calumet, MI Lucille was chosen Mother of the Year by the members of Br. 28. She has been a member for 27 years, joining in 1966 and was recently elected as vice president. She is a widow with two children. Mavis McKinstry and Marshall Wickstrom: four grandchildren, Jim, Lynn, Wendy and Elliot. Lucille is quite active in her lodges. She is the secretary of the VFW Auxiliary 3900 and is a member of the Daughters of Isabella #413, the National Catholic Society of Foresters #517. Laurium Senior Citizens, St. Paul's Altar Society, the AARP Chapter 1676, the Ahmuk Senior Citizens, Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary 382 who chose her as Mother of the Year in 1976. Lucille is a graduate of Calumet High School and enjoys social events, especially Bingo games and playing Pinochle. She was a Bingo Caller for many years. And, oh, the game shows! The family is nearby. Her son, Marshall was in the Marines in Vietnam and is currently working as a maintenance man at the Medical Care Facility at Hancock. His wife, Lynn is a beaut-itian in Laurium at Lynne Fashion Trends. Daughter, Mavis is employed at Fraki's Market as a check-out clerk and her husband, Paul is a barber in Laurium. All these towns are close to each other on the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan. Lucille is deeply honored to he chosen Mother of the Year. Jean Clara McNulty Br. 32, Euclid, OH Jean Clara Massek was the second daughter of John and Sophia Massek, born in Uniontown, PA on August 18, 1919. Her father was in business most of his life. First he had a company store in Continental, PA, then owned a grocery store in Uniontown. Later, he was the president of a meat packing company. Her mother was a homemaker and the president of Zivena for 20 years, until she was in her late 80's. Sophia was an excellent seamstress and baker. Jean had two sisters, Elizabeth, deceased since 1973 and Betty who resides in Uniontown. Jean attended St. Mary’s grade school and St. John’s high school in Uniontown. After high school, she was a bookkeeper for P.M. Auto Supply and eventually came to Cleveland to work for Osborn's. She returned to Uniontown to marry Leo McNulty. Once married, her place was at home. Alter the wedding on August 17, 1946 they lived in PA until 1955 when a flood forced them to move to Ohio. They settled in Cleveland, on E. 79th St. Later, they moved again, this time to Euclid where she still resides. As a child, Jean played the piano and violin. She enjoyed flower arranging and began collecting china and ceramic and wooden shoes. Her collection now is quite extensive. Jean also enjoys going out to play bingo. She belongs to the St. Christine's Ladies Guild, Chriseniors, St. Robert's Seniors, Slovenian Women’s Union Br. 32 and the First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association. She is the mother of two children. Patricia, born in 1947 and Tom, born in 195 I. As they were growing up, Jean took the children all over by bus, and by Greyhound back to Uniontown to visit. She spend endless hours with them on their front porch when there were front porches! Daughter, Pat has two grown children, Theresa, and Gibby Aspinwall. In 1986. Pat married Jack Ulrich and they own the PJ Pub in Kirtland. Tom is married to Michaelene Krann since 1975 and they have twin daughters, Lisa and Erin (II) a two sons, Ryan (9) and Eric (6). They are also raising Michaelene’s 16 year old niece, Jamu Krann for the past four years. Tom is a Sales Manager for A.D.T. Security and Michaelene works as a programmer for Eaton. Tom recently went back to college and will soon graduate with a B.S. in Business Management. Grandma Jean really enjoys her grandchildren. Before Tom's children went to school, Jean and her husband baby-sat once a week. The children love the time they spend with grandma and grandpa! You can always count on grandma, right? One of Jean’s greatest pleasures is eating out and shopping with granddaughter, Teresa. She also loves to buy trinkets for the younger ones and selects pretty jewelry for the girls and toy ears for the boys. When she goes to a fast food place she always picks a “Happy Meal" so she can take something back for the kids! But, now, Jean is slowing down because of arthritis. She has lots of memories, and enjoys tellings about them. She had her parents for 70 years Helen Horwath and they had many nice times so Jean is a veritable storyteller of old times. Jean loves to travel, too. Tell her about a good trip and she will go! Jean does go, to Las Vegas every year for the past 20 years or so! She has been our member since 1978 and is very dedicated to all of her sister members. Michaelene M. McNulty Stella Mattson Br. 33, Duluth, MN Stella (Banas) Mattson was born Feb. 2, 1918, a lifelong Duluthian, has been a SWU member for 33 years. Her parents, Stanley and Mary Banas were Polish immigrants. Her sister, Helen Jean McNulty Mosack, is also a member of our branch. Attended Stowe, Morgan Park, graduated from Central high school and took additional secretarial courses. Stella’s first job upon graduation was at Nopeming Sanitarium in food services for 5 years. She lived on the grounds and went home only on days off even though it was only 6 miles away. She worked for ten years at Klearfax Linen Looms until the factory closed; Western Electric until marriage. Stella and Carl A. Mattson, an electrician, were married on Nov. 26, 1955 in St. Elizabeth's Church. They moved to 3831 W. 6th St., West Duluth, where she still resides, and is a member of Helen Kunich Holy Family Parish. Carl died of cancer on Nov. 8, 1983. Stella does all types of crafts, knits, sews, excellent cook. Her specialty is making baby quilts, sweatshirts, costumes. Enjoys traveling across U.S.; Poland to visit relatives and homeland; Medjugorje, and Hawaii. Carl and Stella celebrated their 25th anniversary Nov. 1980 with family and friends; then went to Hawaii for 3 weeks - her most fond memory. Stella and Carl had two children. Jimmy, born in 1956, died at 9 months. Jean, born in 1958, attended Duluth Schools and graduated from U of M, Duluth, with degree in Home Economics. She lives with her husband, Mark, and two sons in Flower Mound, Texas. Mark sets up computers Rase Kerntz for his company. Jean works out of her home for Pampered Chef as an Advanced Director. Grandma Stella’s pride and joy are two grandsons; James Carl, 5, and Scott, 3. Stella visits at least twice a year and they visit Duluth every summer. Boys enjoy receiving letters with gum in them at least 3 times a week. Brag about it to playmates. Stella has missed very few meetings in her long membership in our branch. Contributes to all fund drives, bake sales, entertains, and is currently Sgt. at Arms and has been for 15 years. She is a kind, generous, hospitable, caring person. Both her mother and mother-in-law lived with them for a number of years. She is a Tops Club member and has been KOP (Keep Off Stella Mattson MAY-JUNE, 1993 /9 Pounds) for 18 years. Stella is honored to be chosen as Mother of Year by our branch. She has always striven to be good mother and “great” grandmother and member working in any activities in our branch. It is a joy to have Stella as “Mother of the Year”, our “sister” and friend to each of us. Alice Cacich and Lois Pelander EilEEn Poderzay Br. 34, Soudan, MN Writing up our Mother of the Year 1993 is a first for me — we are honoring someone who is 100% Finnish! She is none other than Eileen Viola Avikainen Podcrzay of Soudan! Eileen was born on August 4, 1926, in Soudan, moved to Embarrass, MN and then back to Soudan in 1942. She graduated from the Tower-Soudan High School. After graduation, she worked at the Tower Box Factory until she married. Both of Eileen’s parents were born in Finland; they were Lauri and Hulda Kallinki Avikainen. Her mother was an orphan at one year old and was raised by a family in Cook, MN. She worked as a young woman at the Fay Hotel in Virginia. As a young man, Lauri worked as a carpenter and took part in building the court house in Virginia, also Burntside Lodge near Ely and at the Soudan Mine. Eileen married Anthony (Tony) Poderzay, of the well known Poderzay family from Soudan on September 27, 1947. Father John Jershe of St. Martin's officiated, with Pauline Erchul, Joe Poderzay and Ray and Rachel Avikainen as their attendants. Their first home was in the Jamnick family home on 4th St. in Soudan, then they purchased the Oblak family home on 4th St., where they now reside and where Tony keeps up a beautiful lawn and lovely flower beds... being a neighbor of theirs, I appreciate his efforts! Tony and Eileen became the parents of two daughters, Antoinette (Toni) who is married to Stanley Petroskey and lives in Soudan and Margaret (Margie) who is married to Jeff Lecy and lives in St. Paul. Grandchildren include Jeanine Petroskey Grahek and Michael Petroskey; Chad, Kristin, and Anthony Lecy. Toni works as a teller at the Embarrass-Vermillion Credit Union in Tower and Margie is a registered nurse at United Hospitals in St. Paul. Tony was born and raised in Soudan, the son of Anton and Caroline (Euchul) Poderzay. Caroline’s mother, Mary Erchul (Mrs. Tom) was a charter member of Br. 34, and was vice president when our branch was organized in 1929. Caroline served as trustee 1951-1953. Tony served with the U.S. Army as Cpl. with the 754th Field Artillery Bn., being in the Battle of the Bulge under Gen. Montgomery of England on the North Side. He was ready to be shipped to Japan when the war was over and he was discharged in 1946. He purchased his first accordian in Germany, and played for fellow soldiers, then had it sent home. Tony is from a talented family — they all play the accordian, without any formal lessons — Tony, Tom, Joe, Leonard (now deceased) and sisters Pauline (Albert) Trucano, and Theresa (Frank) Galaski. Tony started out at first by himself, then played with Bill Johnson of Soudan, and later teamed up with brother, Tom. Tony also was with the bands, Taconite Trio and Kar-Pod’s. The family still plays today at nursing homes in Cook, Virginia, and Ely. They have played at Ironworld in Chisholm, at Ethnic Masses in St. Martin’s, Virginia and Ely and also played at the Lutheran Church in Cook. Their music is enjoyed immensely. Now they play at our church for Memorial Day, Labor Day, the Feast of St. Martin and other get-togethers. This family is one that is willing to share their time and talent for the enjoyment of all who hear them. Tony worked for U.S. Steel in Soudan, the Ely Pioneer Mine and MN Tac for 42 years and retired as head blaster in 1983. Eileen has two brothers and one sister, Owen Avikainen (Agnes) of Tower and Ray (Rachel) Avikainen of Floren-ton. Her sister is Elaine (Fred) Kosel of Hibbing. She worked for 20 years at Hearthside Homes of Tower, a facility for about 40 mentally handicapped people, doing many things... worked with patients on a one-to-one basis, did housekeeping chores... giving them tender, loving care and being dependable and “on-the-job” at all times. Retiring in 1986, she was one of five ladies who were at Hearthside at the very beginning. Being interested in commercial subjects in high school, Eileen likes keeping books, doing income taxes, etc. and was our Secretary-Treasurer for two years. She belongs to the KSKJ Lodge and its Card Club, the VFW Auxiliary and Northwoods Senior Citizens, is a member of St. Martin’s Circle of our parish. She joined our branch in 1981. Tony and Eileen belong to a bowling league in Hoyt Lakes, before that, they bowled in Virginia. She has enjoyed crocheting and doing craft work. Tony and Eileen take short trips to the Twin Cities and have gone to Milwaukee and to California to see Tony’s sister, Caroline Akins and her family. They also love sports and really enjoy basketball. Eileen bakes delicious Finnish tarts. Tony and Eileen have a dog, named Buffy — I heard that Buffy thinks "Dad” owns the vacuum cleaner and barks when Eileen tries to vacuum — smart lady, that Eileen! Eileen, we are happy and honored ot have you as our Mother of the Year 1993. Good health and May God Bless You. Adeline Mustonen, Reporter GelEstE Spehar Br. 39, Biwabik, MN Our Woman of the Year for 1993 is Celeste Spehar. Even though Celeste lives in Minneapolis, MN, 200 miles away, she is well known to many of our older members because of her interest in S.W.U. Br. 39 is where her mother, Anna Spehar was a member for many years; and also a past “Mother of the Year.” Mrs. Spehar had been a Charter member of S.W.U. in McKinley, MN in 1929 and had enjoyed meeting Mrs. Prisland at that time!!! Celeste joined Br. 39 in 1966. She was born in McKinley, MN Nov. 11, 1932 to Anna and John Spehar. She was the youngest of four children. Her brother, John died in 1975 and she has a sister, Rose (in Milwaukee, Wl) and a sister, Anne in California. Celeste obtained her B.A. from the U. of Minn, in 1956, majoring in “Russian Area Studies” while working part time as a clerk typist at the University for her room and board! One year after graduation she left for Washington, D.C. where she worked as a translator Eileen Poderzay of Russian at the Library of Congress. After 10 years she returned to Minnesota and became employed at the U. of Minnesota using her Russian Language Skills. She is justifiably proud of her ability to converse in Russian and has enjoyed the unique experience of making friends with Russian Jewish immigrants in San Francisco, CA, where she goes often to visit her sister Anne. Celeste is very fond of classical music and keeps a fine collection of symphonies and operas. She loves to travel; and in 1988 she took a trip to Poland, Hungary, Austria and Czechoslovakia. In 1964 she had accompanied her mother to Slovenia. This was 51 years after her mother’s arrival in America in 1913. They vis- Mary 5kul ited with many relatives in her mother’s home town of Tribuče, near Črnomelj, Bela Krajina. They also visited her father’s birthplace in Bela Krajina, Sinji Vrh. She says, "My sister, Anne was the greatest inspiration in my life, motivating me to attend the U. of Minn, just as she had done, having graduated fifteen years before me. “My fondest memories relate to travel in Europe, visiting my favorite city of Vienna, Austria on three different trips. “This honor is special to me because I have fond memories of my mother’s happiness, having been honored as Mother of the Year by the Biwabik branch in 1964, just after we had both flrlinc Fritz returned from a two months stay with relatives in Slovenia.” We are proud to honor Celeste as our “Woman of the Year” for 1993... and it happens on the 100th anniversary of her mother’s birth!!! Jean Korsman Agnes Serazin Br. 40, Lorain, Oh “It’s those little things that matter most - the little things mothers do every day that may not seem important, but they are!” says Mother of the Year, Agnes Serazin. She adds: “This is a special honor and it is wonderful, really makes you think and look at your life differently!” So, Agnes Searzin relates her being fignes Serazin chosen as Mother of the Year in a very special way that we can all agree to. Her life has been circulating around her family of origin as one of four children - with Slovenian parents, Peter and Agnes Celik, and her own family of four children. Lorain, Ohio is her home and she has been a member of Br. 40 since 1988, and an auditor for the past two years. Her mother, Agnes Celik was a member for many years until her death in 1983. Her birthday is January 15th and she is a native of Lorain, and an alumnus of Sts. Cyril & Methodius grade school and Lorain High School, Class of ’49. She started working in a grocery store at age 16 and then, on and off, until 1987 when she retired. Agnes collects Mary “Mitzie” Bencin Hull pottery and glassware and loves antiques. She also does bobbin lace! She is a member of the church choir, too. Her homemaking is excellent. She and her husband, Joseph, whom she married in 1949, have made a happy atmosphere for their family. Joe is retired from the Ford Motor Co. He served his country as a Navy pilot in WW II, discharged as an Ensign. They both enjoy attending Slovenian functions in Lorain. Their children are: daughter, Sharon who lives in Garland, TX and is married with two children, graduated from Kent State Univ. and works in Dallas as a hospital rep.; daughter, Judy is married and also has two children, lives in Kipton, Ohio and works as a floral arranger; son, Christopher graduated from Baldwin-Wallace College, is a supervisor at UPS and lives in N. Olmstead with his wife. Agnes and Joe lost a son, Joey just three days after his birth. The four grandchildren visit often; from Texas are Nicholas (12) and Jennifer (8) and from Kipton, Brian (6) and Elizabeth (4). Agnes loves to baby sit for them whenever possible. They love their vivacious grandmother, who is petite, with brown hair and blue eyes. We bet they have great times together! flrlinE M. Fritz Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Arline M. Fritz has been voted the 1993 Mother of the Year. Arline has been a member of branch 43 for the past 5 years, and has been active in S.W.U., helping out at card parties, luncheons, and donating prizes for special activities. Arline attends all monthly meetings and is very well liked. Arline is an active member in K.S.K.J., and has been an auditor for the past four years. Arline has been in charge of coordinating the K.S.K.J. member of the year award for the last five years, and has organized and helped serve the luncheons of the St. John’s children’s Christmas party for the past ten years. Arline has also prepared and served the luncheons for the Wisconsin Federation meetings for the last eight years. Arline’s story is somewhat different since she is not a Slovenian. She was born in Milwaukee on May 11, 1928, with her parents being of Irish-German descent. Tragically, Arline’s birth mother passed away from pneumonia when Arline was only one year old, leaving her father to the task of raising Arline and her four older sisters and brother. Arline, her sisters and brother went off to live with relatives until their father could make the arrangements to have the younger children properly taken care of at home. Four months later, Arline’s father hired a women to come in and take care of the cooking and house-cleaning. She immediately went out and brought Arline and her brother and sisters home. She and Arline’s father were later married, and she became the only mother Arline has ever known. Arline’s step-mother turned out to be a wonderfully warm, loving and caring woman, just like Arline. Arline had a Catholic education and went to work directly in the medical field. At age 18, she started at St. Joseph’s Hospital as a physical therapist, working her way up to being the head physical therapist of the department. Arline really enjoyed her work at the hospital, helping and caring a great deal about her patients. It was there at St. Joseph’s Hospital at the age of 22, she met and fell in love with a very special young Slovenian man named Frank R. Fritz. Frank was admitted into St. Joseph’s for treatment due to smoke inhalation, and soon became one of Arline’s patients. Frank immediately fell in love with Arline, and the two were married on October 27, 1951 at St. Florian’s Church. Frank was a member of the old St. John’s Slovenian church, and soon introduced Arline to the Slovenian ways. This is where Arline started to become a real Slovenian. Frank taught Arline how to prepare some of his favorite dishes like potica, sarma and štruklje just to mention a few. Frank and Arline loved to go to the dances, picnics and social gatherings. In 1954, Frank and Arline had their first baby, Frank M. Fritz, and at this time Arline stopped working at St. Joe’s and became a full time mom. In 1961, they purchased a home on South 35th Street and had their second child, Mary Kay. “She was always the best mom on the block. She never was too busy to play games, jump rope, or even roller skate with us. She would help us with our homework and teach us how to draw. She always listened to our problems and fears, but mostly she was always our best friend. She would always say, “If we hurry up with our work, we will have more time for fun. Our mom, Arline was our gift from God. She encouraged us to be the best we could be. She is the most unselfish woman that I know. Without her help and dedication to us, we would not be as successful today.” Frank M. Fritz, is a Senior Project Engineer, with a Bachelor of Science from M.S.U.E. in Engineering Science. Frank holds a Master of Science, Management from Cardinal Stritch College, and is currently working on a Master’s of Science, in Computer Science at Marquette University. Over the course of his thirteen years as an engineer, Frank has been awarded four U.S. government patents, with two more in progress. Mary Kay Kais (Fritz) has been a Licensed Practical Nurse for the past twelve years. She is currently working at St. Luke’s Medical Center. She has been married to her husband, Michael G. Kais, for the past four years. Michael has his own business as a Welding and Cutting Specialist. They were married on July I, 1989. Arline is very close to her family, helping them out through any problem or crisis that occurs. Arline is always there to lend an open ear and caring heart to people she cares about, and even for people she hardly knows. She spends a lot of her time with her family, enjoys going on golf outings, vacations, bowling, and parties. She makes a great co-pilot for her son, Frank, when they fly in his airplane. Arline’s husband Frank, passed away on September 8, 1987 after a long battle with cancer. Arline’s true and unselfish love was shown during these trying times, as she dedicated herself to the care and well being of her husband. They were together until the end, with Frank dying in her arms at home. Frank and Arline were married 36 years. Since her husband’s death, Arline has kept busy working at the Medical-Surgical Clinic, American Greeting Cards and currently as a food demonstrator at local grocery stores. Arline maybe short in stature, but big in the hearts ol her friends and family. Everyone who knows her, knows her sweet smile and fun loving ways. “Arline is the Best Mother we could have ever asked for. After nearly losing her life due to illness in January 1992, our family is closer than ever. Once again, Arline proved her strength and will to live by overcoming the illness. In our minds and hearts she is definitely our Mother of the Year now and forever. We are proud of you, mom and we love you." Your Children, Frank, Mary Kay and Michael Mary Sadar Skul Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH Mary Sadar Skul has been a member of Br. 47 for 56 years, including the time in her younger days when she was an active member of the “Little Flower Cadets”. She was born on June 1st, 1919 at fara Krka na Dolenjskem in Slovenia. Her beloved parents were Rudolph Sadar and Mary Krai. She was baptized at Sts. Cosmos & Damien Church there and is the oldest of three daughters, the others being Amalia Kokely and the late Anna Makse. Mary’s father emigrated to the United States in 1921, leaving behind his wife and two daughters, Mary and Amalia. In one year’s time, due to hard work and a very frugal life, he was able to send for his family. At that time, Mary was 3 years old and her sister, only a year. Later, the youngest, Anna was born in the U.S. The family first lived in the St. Clair area, but because her father was employed at the steel mill in Newburgh, they thought it feasible to move there and did so, relocating to E. 80th. Mary completed 8th grade at St. Lawrence School. It was difficult for her since the family only spoke Slovenian, but, with patience and the help of the Dominican nuns, she adjusted nicely. She graduated from Jane Ad-dams Vocation High School, majoring in business and sewing. Due to the Great Depression, jobs in her skills were not available at that time, so her first job was in the kitchen at the famous German restaurant. Max Gruber’s. It was her good fortune to work with chefs who were tops in their class, so Mary acquired a genuine interest in all types of food preparation. She was later employed at the Eaton Axle Cafeteria and Main Weld. To this day she is still actively employed at Packaging and Gaskets and she puts in at least 18 hours a week. On July 18th, 1942, Mary and Rudolph Skul were married at St. Lawrence Church by the late Father Louis B. Baznik. They were childhood friends and had lived next door to each other. This marriage was blessed with three children, Mark, Mary Kathryn and Robert. Mark resides in Las Vegas and is a dealer at a casino. Mary Kathryn and her husband, Rudolph Matejka own Luxx Ultra Tech and she is the president-treasurer of the company. Robert and his wife, Laurie are owners of a Meineke Discount Mufflers shop in Akron. There arc four granddaughters, Kathy Skul, a Budget Analyst at the corporate office of Fabric Center in Hudson, Ohio, Katie Skul, 8 years old and her sister, Teresa, 6, and Elisa Skul, 5. All are so very precious to grandma Mary. Mary’s husband, Rudy (Notice that there are three Rudys in this family!) was employed for 35 years at Federal Appliances as a serviceman for Whirlpool and Kitchen-Aid appliances. After the children were in school, Mary took night classes at West Tech and learned to be a key-punch operator. She also took a course in cake decorating, a venture that was one of her greatest incentives to begin baking as a business. She has done many, many cakes for all occasions and there are many, many, including brides, who have received cakes from Mary as gifts. The last wedding cake she baked was two years ago, large enough to serve over 100 people. Her specialty now is baking poticas and she averages over 50 each holiday. She is very generous in giving them away to family and friends! Some of Mary’s fondest memories are when she met her cousin, Vera Sij-kovic who came from Slovenia with the dance group Tonec to perform in the U.S. in 1956. Prior to that, Mary had been a regular correspondent with her relatives in Europe and still is. Another memorable occasion was when she was a member of the Little Flower Cadets drill team of Br. 47 and performed in the drill competitions at Euclid Beach Park. Her team won first place! After 45-1/2 years of marriage, Rudolph Skul passed away on Feb. 13, 1988 following years of declining health. Mary now resides in Solon, but her roots are deeply imbedded in her old Newburgh neighborhood and she returns there on many occasions. Mother of the Year, Mary Sadar Skul is a very fine and dedicated person in terms of caring, and this is especially exemplified in the attention she gave to her mother for over 19 years until her death in November, 1988. Many, many people are the recipients of Mary’s generosity, hospitality and loving nature. It is truly amazing to know a person who can extend herself to so many. Those of us who know and love Mary, and there are many, are truly blessed. The honor bestowed on her as Mother of the Year of Br. 47, S.W.U. is given with love and accepted with great humility. She is always proud of her heritage and exhibits the best attributes of it in her daily life. God bless you and yours, Mary, and Slovenska Zenska Zveza! Reporter Mary “Mitzie” Bencin Br. 50, Cleve.-Euclid, OH Our chosen “Woman of the Year” is Mitzie Bencin who is a charter member of Branch 50. Her parents were Mary and Joseph Bencin. They had a family of 3 daughters and one son. The daughters, Josephine, Mitzie and Frances are all charter members - Josephine is now deceased,. Branch 50 was the- first English speaking branch, with 20 ladies at the first meeting at the home of Albina Novak (mother of Corinne Leskovar, and I’m sure she was there, too!) Mitzie attended St. Vitus School and is a dedicated parishioner. She belongs to St. Vitus Rosary Society, the Mother’s Club, Alumni Club, Woodman Circle and Euclid Pensioners. She has been a volunteer, helping with school lunches for the last 14 years. Mitzie did a lot of traveling with her sisters throughout the United States and attended a few Baraga Pilgrimages. As a young girl, she loved to play baseball and bowled in a league with Richman Brothers, her workplace. For all these years, she has attended practically all the meetings of Br. 50. Being together with all the ladies is what she enjoys. Mitzie is a very gener- ous person in many ways and we love her. On May 25th we will be honoring her at “Sterles” Country House on East 55th Street. So, ladies, try to come and make this a truly “Happy Day” for our dear Mitzie - our “Woman of the Year”!! Pres. Ann Tercek LucMIe fl. Strom Br. 52, Kitzville, MN “Gramma-lu” is what they call her; that is, it’s what 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren call her! She is happiest when she is able to be with them, bake and cook for them, and tell them stories of her Croatian heritage. Lucille is a mother and grandmother who puts family first at all times. She was the only child bcrn to John and Dorothy Povitich, in a small mining location near Hibbing, Minnesota. Her parents were of Croatian descent. She says: “My parents were very important to me. They inspired me to work hard, love my family and try to help out and spread a little joy and love to others - as they gave their love and devotion to me, their friends and neighbors.” So, the life of Lucille Strom has followed much the same. Her training as a cook after high school brought her into the food service profession. She actually began to work part time after her first widowhood and soon became the head cook supervisor in a school cafeteria. This was in 1962. A very lovely retirement party was held and she received a special gift, an apron signed by all 30 of the workers under her. Her first marriage to Albert Klays-mat in 1940 was a very happy one and five children were born. Before he passed away, they already had one grandchild. In 1972, Lucille married Raymond Strom who was a special person to the whole family. He died in 1992. “I was very fortunate to be married twice to very supportive and caring men. They were both devoted to the family,” says Lucille. Her children include a daughter, Joanne, who has five children and two grandchildren, son, Albert with two children who works for the Dept, of Natural Resources, second son, John, an Immigration Dept, officer who works on the Canadian border, third son, Dan who is a radio station engineer and has two children and lastly, Mike, who has two children and works for a department store. Lucille’s mother was a member of Br. 52 and actually signed her up as a member way back when. The members love Lucille very much and are happy whenever they are together. MayrriE Spmch Br. 54, Warren, OH My mother was born in Greenland, Michigan on Aug. 30, 1903, one of eight children with Slovenian parentage. They were Mike and Katie Banovetz Gerzetich. Mom went to school in Greenland and Lake Mine, Michigan, and then to work at the Packard Electric (GM) Co. She worked there from 1929 until 1965. She belongs to several clubs, organizations, such as SNPJ for 70 years, and enjoys going to bingo and cooking and baking. She is a charter member of Br. 54, SWU and was secretary for many, many years. Mother is a widow now. She married our dad, Jerry Sporich on Aug. 19, 1919 at St. Joseph Church in Chisholm, MN officiated by Rev. J.R. Schiffrer. Dad then worked at the Copper Mine and later a steel mill (Republic Steel). Dad passed away June 18, 1962 after 43 years of marriage. Our family consists of one surviving son, Paul, residing in Warren, eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Her deceased children (three ol them) were Rose, who was a member of SWU for 63 years until her death, and two sons. The oldest son made the US Navy his career. As a devoted grandmother, Mayme has always enjoyed baby sitting for all the grandchildren. She has crocheted an afghan for each of them and travels to visit them in all parts of California, Florida and Ohio. She attended all their weddings and most graduations. She is a warm person, and all the children benefit from her caring, compassion, criticism (oh, yes, that, too), and helpful listening. She is a peppy, bubbly and talkative person, of medium height, with pretty white hair and hazel eyes. Though her activity with the branch is somewhat curtailed, she has had a wonderful history with the branch. In her own words, she comments on her wonderful family, and how proud she is of her oldest son who was a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy and spent much time away from home. “My fondest memory is of the arrival of my son on his ship, pulling into the harbor after being away for a year.” She also says “I greatly appreciate the honor of being Mother of the Year and 1 hope that 1 have contributed just a small amount of advice, guidance and consultation to my children, my grandchildren and great grandchildren and friends in their times of need.” Mayme’s photo was taken on her 85th birthday! Joan Mary Kristin TwaddlE Br. 55, Girard, OH “To be honored in a year that celebrates the 60th anniversary of our branch which was dear to the hearts of my grandmother, mother and aunt, is truly a happy feeling. It brings the past to the present and is indeed a time to go back in memories.” Joan is talking about her grandmother, Mary Krašovec Cekuta and her aunt, Sophie Cekuta who have both passed away but were charter members, and her mother, Mary Cekuta Kristin, a long-time member. Joan says that her precious family holds together the ties that brought her to SWU many years after living away from home. Her birthplace is New Kensington, PA but she moved to Girard as a baby where she stayed until her marriage in 1961. She is a graduate of Girard High School and received a B.A. from Youngstown State University. Her career was as a field director for the Camp Fire Girls which she began four years before her marriage. Her husband, David L. Twaddle, is a retired naval officer and also has retired from the Digital Equipment Corp. They were blessed with two sons: David K. is married and lives in California with his family, including two daughters, Sheree, 7 years old, and Christine, 3. She hopes to see them this year. Her other son is Jack who is 20 and lives at home. Known as “Joanie”, our Mother of the Year thanks the Lord, Jesus Christ, for the blessings she has received all her life, to bring her to this happy day. Mayme Sporich Elizabeth J. Hauaich Br. 57, Niles, OH Elizabeth, known lo us as “Li/" and her husband of 47 years, Charles, are spending an enjoyable retirement together. They have been traveling so much, that they have covered 43 of the United States! They're not always on the road, however. Sometimes they are at home, and when they’re not with their granddaughters, five of them, they do crafts! Liz and Charles are life-long residents of Niles where they were married on Sept. 29th, 1945. He is retired from the RMI Co. and she from 20 years as a cook for the Niles School System. They have two sons, Thomas and Margaret Skriner and husband, Joseph Robert. Thomas is married to Connie Buscino, and have three daughters and reside in Columbus. Son Robert is married to Marcey Schimley and has two daughters living in Austintown. They all get together for any occasion, especially holidays. Oldest granddaughter, Lynn is married to Michael Paszke and the others are Amy, Tina, Cari and Stacey. Grandma loves to make things for all of them, as she is very handy with crochetting. The members of Br. 57 know Liz to be very generous, donating prizes, etc. She is a 54 year member! Many meetings and socials have come and gone in her dedicated membership and as a Recording Secretary, Reporter and Auditor. In many ways she follows in the footsteps of her dearly departed mom, Elizabeth Hauaich Jennie Logar, who was a charter member and the first Mother of the Year of Br. 57 back in 1951. Liz came into the world as a member of the large Logar family, with 6 brothers and 5 sisters. Her mother was a very special person in all their lives and Liz is also a very special person, with a wonderful family of her own. Branch 57 considers her one of their best! MargarEt Striner Br. 71, Strabanc, PA Margaret Striner was selected as our 1993 Mother of the Year. She was born in Strabane, the daughter of the late John and Josephine Cushma. Although of Slovak descent, she was raised in a ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ Joan Mary Twaddle Slovenian neighborhood where she gained an appreciation for the language, music and food of our Slovenian people. Marge attended Alexander School and completed her education at Charters High School. During World War II, she worked locally and in Cleveland. She loved dancing to Slovenian music, so in Strabane she met and married her husband of 46 years, Joseph Striner. Joe is a fine Slovenian, now retired as a supervisor at the McGraw Edison Co. and an avid button box accordion player. Marge is the mother of our Br. 71 president, Peggy Gricar, who teaches at Bethel Park High School. Another daughter. Cheryl Striner Vogrig is a director at California University. Both ▲ Josephine Mou/ak MAY-JUNE, 1993 /15 daughters live in the Pittsburgh area and visit their parents often. Granddaughter, Megan is a joy to them, too. Mom’s primary occupation has been homemaking and mothering. She enjoys cooking, baking, travel and dancing. An avid reader, an enthusiastic shopper, she loves the challenge of a puzzle. Loving and caring for her Yorkshire Terrier is also special to her. An over-thirty-year member, she has greatly contributed to our branch, at the meetings and activities, being the recording secretary since 1980. She attends St. Patrick’s Church and is also a member of the SNPJ #138. Gentle and loving, friends often greet our mom with a hug and call her “Miss Marge”! Although she is our mom, she mostly our friend. Thank you. Peg and Cheryl Josephine Nowak Br. 73, Warrensville, OH This May, Branch 73 will honor Josephine Nowak as our Mother of the Year. She has been a member for 38 years. Her parents, Louis and Anna Zagar, were born in Slovenia and settled in Cleveland where their 10 children were born. Josephine was the 5th child and the oldest surviving of the 10; she was 81 on March 3rd. her youngest sister, Lillian, is a social member in Branch 73. Josephine attended St. Lawrence Elementary School and South High School where she completed the 11th grade. She wanted to become a nun, but she was forced to quit school to go to work to help her family. She went to work for a company that manufactured men’s shirts and pajamas. This is where she learned her love for sewing and befriended a girl whose brother would become her future husband. Josephine and Eugene Nowak, a carpenter who immigrated from Poland with his family when he was 8, were married after 4 years of courtship in St. Lawrence Church on May 12, 1934. Eugene’s parents spoke little English so Josephine soon learned to understand and speak the Polish language. Since she would help her mother-in-law with English and also helped her study for the U.S. citizenship test, she was able to speak and write Polish as well as she did Slovenian. After 3 years of marriage their first child, Eugene Jr., was bom, followed by Gloria and much later, Joanna. Josephine went back to work when her husband became ill. They were married only 29 years when he passed away leaving her alone to raise her youngest, Joanna, who was 13 at that time. Her children and grandchildren are her pride and joy. Eugene Jr., the eldest, is a general contractor and has 5 children. Gloria is a bookkeeper, has 6 children and is recording secretary for Branch 73. Her daughters, Leslie and Melanie are also members. Leslie won one of the $1,000.00 scholarships awarded last year to further her education in pharmacy. Joanna, the youngest, is a medical secretary, has two children and lives in New York. Josephine had 8 grandsons before she was blessed with any granddaughters - the last five born were girls - 13 grandchildren in all. She will become a great grandmother for the first time sometime in April. She enjoys sewing, especially mending. When she finishes, the garments look like new. No one can make home made noodles and cut them as fine; this is one of her specialties along with her stuffed cabbage in sour cream tomato gravy. Josephine likes to spend time with long-time friend, Alouise Epley, Secretary of br. 73. Together they attend cultural activities in Slovenian dress which Alouise has made. Branch 73 is proud to select her as Mother of 1993. Congratulations, Josephine! Barbara Dime Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA Barbara was born in Sugar Creek, Missouri of Croatian parents, Barbara and John Kroll. She has an older brother, John, Jr. and a younger sister, Bernadette Mullendore. In this small ethnic town, Croatians, Slovenians and Slovaks lived together keeping alive many ethnic and religious traditions, circulating around St. Cyril’s Church. After elementary school, Barbara finished junior and senior high and took various business courses. She is a naturally bright person and after graduation began working at the National Life and Accident Insurance Co. in Independence, Missouri. She was there for 12-1/2 years before moving to Seattle, Washington as secretary to the controller of the Unigard Security Insurance Co. She has worked her way up to her present position as Executive Assistant to the President and Chief Operating Officer. Barbara and Gary E. Dime, Sr. were married on Dec. 26, 1972 back in Sugar Creek. Gary is a stockbroker with Dean Witter Co. They have lived in Washington all their married life, and just recently moved into a new home in Bellevue, Washington. Gary and a Slovenian friend, Ted Lunka, who is also Slovenian, have a band and they play for lodge dances and many other functions in the area, in addition to traveling to California, Oregon and other places. The band, says, Barbara, keeps them all very busy. Barbara has three step sons, Gary Jr., Larry and Cameron. Gary Jr. is married to Pam Cooks, the granddaughter of Br. 79 member, Mary Cooks. Larry is married to Paula Wylet. Gary, Jr., Larry and their families all live in the area near the senior Dimes. Cameron is a single and living in Huntington Beach, CA. Granddaughter, Nicole is 12, grandson, Joshua is 10 and grandson, Justin is 3. Another grandchild was expected in March. The family has special times together for Christmas and their tradition is to attend a Christmas show together, have dinner and of course, take pictures with Santa Claus. Among the members of Br. 79 are Barbara’s daughter-in-law and her mother in law, Stephanie Dime who was Mother of the Year. She is described as such: Barbara is of average height and weight and has brown eyes and hair. She answers to Barb sometimes! She is generous, patient, talented, very neat and tidy, is a good listener and very organized. She takes very good care of her appearance and dresses to a T! Husband, Gary thinks one of her favorite pasttimes is shopping at Nordstrom’s, but we know that’s not so. Barbara also likes to dance, do embroidery and for exercise, walks a lot. Her greatest inspiration is her husband who is her best friend, too. “He ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ Jo Schmidt always encourages me to do my best and is the best role model for me!” Being selected as Mother of the Year means a lot, she says. “1 accept with a great deal of pride and gratitude!" “Jo” Schmidt Br. 89, Oglesby, IL John and Josephine (Paulicka) Livek welcomed their daughter with extra joy after having five sons, who ranged in ages from nine to three years. She must have been a beautiful baby with her red curly hair. It isn’t any wonder that “Feenie”, as they called her, grew up as a tomboy. She joined her brothers in baseball, basketball, track, tennis, Sophie Trunkel Bnd husband, John ice and roller skating and even became a sharpshooter. Her father came from Slovenia and was a coal miner at the Cherry Coal Mine at the time of the mine disaster. Then he ran a tavern and prior to his retirement worked at the Marquette Cement Plant. He passed away in 1956. Her mother was bom in Germany and is well-remembered as being a very active member of Br. 89, reporter for ZARJA, National Vice President, and then. National President of the Slovenian Women's Union from 1952 until 1961. Josephine Livek passed away on June 27. 1976. Jo received her education in the Oglesby Washington School and graduated from LaSalle-Pcru High School. In 1940, Jo married Max Florence Strnad Schmidt who was a contractor. Of this union were two sons. Max (Rusty) and Robert. Rusty is a businessman who lives with is wife, Geri, in Vail, Colorado. Their sons are Scott and Max Steven. Scott and his wife, Diane and two children also live in Vail. Max Steven, the younger of the two, commutes from Vail to Oglesby. Jo’s son, Robert is a dentist residing in Ottawa with his wife, Susan and two children, Erika Susan and Hans Damon. Jo is proud of her four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Her husband. Max lived until 1986 and got to enjoy them for a while. While Jo was a stenographer at Starved Rock Lodge in the State Park she furthered her education at LaSalle Junior College, Brown’s Business College, Illinois Valley Community College and Barbara Dime the University of Chicago. In 1951 she became an accountant and private secretary, a position she held for nearly 25 years. In 1976 she was the successful bidder for the Lodge and in 1978 became the concessionaire and operator of the establishment. It was known as Schmidt’s Enterprises, Inc. made up of Max, Rusty, Robert and Jo. Jo decided to retire in 1988 after ten years of successful operation. One of her most memorable times was riding in the Great American Cross Country Race which was a ten day event. They rode in a 1936 original vintage Ford automobile. Max drove in three races. She is looking forward to having the family in the race one more time. We hope you get your wish, Jo! I Loretta Kennedy MAY-JUNE, 1993 /17 Jo has two pets that keep her company, a boston terrier named Beau Ges-tic of Colorado and a cat, Shee Hee. She would have liked to have been a politician. She has hosted Governors, Senators. Representatives and Congressmen and had the opportunity to dine with three ex-presidents. Ford, Reagan and Bush, at different times. When ex-governor of Illinois, Jim Thompson hosted Pres. Reagan at the Hilton in Chicago, she was on his committee and there were five thousand people at the affair! She was also an Illinois delegate to the inauguration of President Bush. She was named Woman of the Week by the Business and Professional Women’s Club in 1967. She is an Ambassador with the area Chamber of Commerce, a lady Elk. A member of the Oglesby Women's Club and Federation of Little Women’s Clubs, Daughters of Isabella, A ARP of Oglesby, Deer Park Country Club, Ladies Golf Association and also bowls with the Senior League. She loves to travel, read a good book and go to the theatre. She is still active and is the corporate secretary of her son, Dr. Robert Schmidt’s practice. Jo is enjoying life, her family and all of the blessings that have come her way. It was with great pride that she accepted the honor of being Mother of the Year of Br. 89. We are happy to have you, Jo, as our honorec! Congratulations and God’s blessings on you and your loved ones! Reporter Florence 5trnad Br. 100, Fontana, CA Our Mother of the Year was born in Meerbeth am Rhine, Germany, January 10th, 1912 of Slovenian parentage. She was 18 months only when she sailed to America with a brother, Frank and mother, Ludmilla. Her father, Frank Lipoglavsek had come to America before and was waiting for the family in a house he rented in Milwaukee. There were many Slovenians living there at the time. After three or four years, a house was purchased on 53rd Ave., two blocks from Mary Help ot Christians church, a Slovenian Catholic church. Mr. Kovacic had a Slovenian childrens’ choir that sang at the Sunday Mass. This was good as all the hymns were in Slovenian. At that time, instrumental music lessons were free. “My brother’s violin was collecting dust in the corner, so, I started taking violin lessons and enjoyed the instrument so much, I continued playing through high school.” She graduated from South Division High School, played the violin and viola in the orchestra and clarinet in the bank; also, the bassoon for the last two years. For all this participation, she received a music medal. Florence graduated from the University of Wisconsin, at that time known as the State Teacher’s College, with a B.A. degree in Instrumental Music, and a minor in science. Taught music at the Milwaukee elementary schools, then at the Girls Trade & Technical High School, conducting the orchestra and band. On August 21st, 1941, she married a genial Slovenian, Frank Strnad, who was in the Coast Guard. After he was discharged, in 1945., they moved to California in 1946. The Strnad’s have a daughter, Mary Pauline who has two sons; David, our son, has a daughter and a son. They all live very near to each other and enjoy many family occasions. "Our first California home was at Pico. While living there, I played my bassoon with the Whittier Symphony and the Los Angeles Women’s Symphony. We moved to Fontana in late 1956. There, St. Joseph’s became our church. Our children attended school there. I became very active at St. Joseph’s and began teaching classes at the parish school, also joining the Claremont Symphony Orchestra which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. 1 have been a member as a bassoonist for 37 years.” Our Mother of the Year taught 4th grade at St. Joseph’s for 17 years and because some children had musical instruments, she began teaching music to them before school, after school and during lunch time. This activity progressed quickly until they formed an orchestra, playing at school programs, etc. It was great fun, she says! “Oh, to be young, again!” This year she received a KSK.J 50 year member pin. Also, she is a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, Slovenian Senior Group and last, but not least, a member of Slovenian Women’s Union. All of these activities would not have come to pass without her husband being her “right hand.” Florence is a quiet, most generous and giving person, hospitable, and an inspiration to all. She is much loved! fill Mothers ot Our Branch Br. 101, Bedford, OH This year Branch 101 has chosen to honor all members as our “Mothers of the Year”. Branch 101 is considered a small branch in numbers, however, in 1991 we enrolled three new members and we’re happy to say three more new members were enrolled in 1992. As part of the S.W.U. Membership Campaign, Phase II, we hope to continue signing up more members. The branch was organized in 1962 and is presently presided by our president, Betty Matjašič who was our hon-oree in 1970. Of the many “Mothers of the Year” selected eighteen are still living and eight are now deceased. Each year on the last Sunday of April a Mother’s Mass is announced at Holy Trinity Church in Bedford Heights, Ohio. We attend as a group and receive communion together. Afterwards, we meet at a designated eatery for “brunch”. We honor our “Mother of the Year” on the first Friday evening in May and meet at a restaurant that was voted on at a prior meeting. Our branch has donated to many worthy charities. Our main project for raising money has been Bedford Heights Home Days. It’s a yearly project where all members, old and young, turn out to help in the stand selling hot dogs and canned pop. You can count on all the members to show up and work diligently for the good of the branch. Our members stand as a shining example of what true members should be. All members arc an integral part of our branch. It is our sincere wish that the members enjoy many years of good health, so that they may continue to serve our branch. Congratulations, all members, and may you continue to receive ever greater rewards and recognition! Respectfully submitted, Florence Mirtel 5nphiE Trunkel Br. 102, Willard, VVI Sophie Trunkel was born to Frank and Mary Gosar in 1917, weighing just 1-1/2 - 2 lbs. and with only a midwife in attendance at home. She was the fifth of nine children, one of whom later became a nun. Her father and mother came from Slovenia, he from St. Vid and she from Brezovica. Sophie married John F. Trunkel in 1943. They had a family of six children, four boys and two girls and have 12 grandchildren. They bought the family farm from Anton and Anna Trunkel who were the first Slovenian settlers in Willard, Wisconsin, which at that time was called Thompson’s Switch and the land was only cut-over timberland. They farmed until 1978 when their son, John took over, but they continued to live there until John F. became a victim of lung cancer and after a week of chemotherapy and radiation had to have his leg amputated. In 1991, they moved into a one story, ranch-type house, to make it easier for him to get around with his crutches and wheelchair. In 1992, John F. suffered a recurrence of cancer and died, after almost 49 years of marriage. One of Sophie’s best memories is of their visit to Slovenia in 1977 with a Milwaukee tour group. There they met and became reacquainted with relatives with whom Sophie had been corresponding for a long time. She speaks Slovenian and learned to read and write it as a child. Sophie is also a member of the Slovenian church choir and the Slovenian Singers. She makes all the traditional foods like potica, strudel, and even “krvave and mesene klobase”! Sophie is a caring person, has always been a wonderful member and has shown the finest example of love in action by her compassionate service to her ill husband and kindness to everyone she meets. LurEtta KEnriEdy Br. 103, Washington, D.C. Loretta Sabina Kennedy has been chosen the Woman of the Year of Br. 103. Loretta was the first born precious darling of John and Sabina Bartol, born on January 21, 1943, Washington, D.C. She was baptized at St. Francis Xavier Church. Her family moved across the historic Potomac River to Arlington, Virginia, in 1946. Loretta attended St. James Catholic School, Falls Church, and Bishop Denis J. O’Connell High School in Arlington. Both schools were taught by the Sisters of the Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Loretta’s graduation class of June 1961 was to be distinguished as the first graduating class of the then “NEW DJO” High School. After high school, Loretta was employed by the Acacia Life Insurance Co. in Washington, D.C., as a file clerk. Subsequently, she resigned and went to work for Central Charge Co. as a bill collector for delinquent debts of customers. In August 1986, Loretta transferred to the Suburban Credit Co. in Annandale. During the interval, Loretta met John Fred Kennedy, at the wedding reception of her friends, Dan and Mary Kennedy. John was Dan’s brother, a native Washingtonian and was employed on Capitol Hill, at the U.S. Senate Office Building in the Mail Room. John and Loretta were married on October 5th, 1968. They enjoyed an endearing bond together for seventeen years. Sadly, in 1985, John passed away after a prolonged period of illness due to his weakened heart condition. Although Loretta and John were not blessed with children, they always welcomed their nieces, nephews, and friends’ children for lively weekend visits and at school vacation times. Loretta has been devoted and caring to her late beloved sister, Mary Elizabeth’s children, Elizabeth, twelve years old and Rachel, ten. They live with their dad in Ruckersville, Virginia and eagerly look forward to weekly telephone conversations with “Reverse the charges, aunt Loretta!” Loretta and her younger brother, Michael and his wife, Joyce, have a fond relationship. They often include Loretta in their social and fun recreation weekend trips. Loretta joined Br. 103 in March 1989. She was interested in learning more about her dad’s Slovenian Heritage. Loretta’s dad and her paternal grandparents were originally from Loški Potok, Slovenia. Loretta is an active member of St. Agnes Church in Arlington. She attends daily Mass before departing for her job. She enjoys swimming, reading novels and short stories, listening to the music of the 40’s and 60’s, attending dinner theatres, plays at the Kennedy Center, concerts, and the yearly Ice Capades Show at the Capitol Centre in Maryland. Her special interest is cooking and experimenting with new recipes. Loretta is a devoted reader and fan of Hermine Dicke, ZARJA’s dedicated writer of Pots and Pans. She finds Her-mine’s varied recipes tempting and delicious. Loretta regularly attends the first Sunday of the month Holy Mass, at Our Lady of Brezje Chapel, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception with the members of the Bishop Baraga Association and Br. 103. She is friendly and a ready listener to those who need a caring ear to listen. Loretta cheerfully volunteers her services in the preparation and work necessary for our social and business activities. Her great delight is helping with the peeling and slicing of apples in preparation for the delicious Apple Strudels we make yearly, headed by the “seasoned bakers” of our Branch for the annual Dinner/Dance held in October. Christmas, Valentine’s Day, individual Birthdays, Wedding and Death Anniversaries of family and friends are all considered treasured occasions to be remembered with a Holy Mass Spiritual Bouquet and or a special greetings card. Loretta is of medium height, grey eyes, dark brown hair, slightly beginning to grey. When asked who is the greatest inspiration in her life? Loretta responds, “My parents! Their continuing faith, caring manners and charitable overlooking of faults in others was, indeed, responsible for instilling a close bond of affection between the members of our family, relatives and friends!” Loretta considers the honor of Woman of the Year a great tribute and an overwhelming pleasure to be so honored by her friends in Br. 103. Love and best wishes for a blessed and happy day, darling daughter, Loretta. On behalf of Loretta and myself, I wish to express our gracious and heartfelt thanks to our members and friends of Br. 103. Sabina L. Bartol Irene M. Odorizzi Heritage Director Looking Back to the Future BR. #96, UNIVERSAL, PA It is always exciting to look back on the past and to see how active a branch was in its formative years. Now we see smaller branches beginning to merge because the membership has decreased over the years. Such is the case of this month's featured branch. #96 from Universal, Pennsylvania. In 1989, Branch #96 cease to exist and the members transferred to Branch #91 in Oakmont. Let me take this opportunity to offer a suggestion to all branches. Look to the future. Do you have younger women active in your branch? If not, take the time to cultivate a “younger sister,” so that when older members reach their golden years, the branch will not fade from existence. The younger members must be cultivated like a garden of flowers that will some day bloom beautifully for our organization. It is the responsibility of branch officers to see that there are troops ready to take over when the time comes. Younger members should be encouraged to attend meetings as they bring with them new and interesting ideas. Suggest that your younger ladies plan activities, projects and meetings for the organization. They will add much zest and life to meetings that might have gotten stale and tired. If your branch is presently saying, “We don't have any younger members to take over, then it’s time for your branch to do something about it, and do it QUICKLY. HISTORY OF S.W.U. BRANCHES I.ETO XI — SJEV. 7 JULY. 1939 St. 96, Universal, Pa. — Naša podružnica Je bila ustanovljena meseca marca ln kakor drugod v začetku tako Je treba tudi pri nas delovati na to, da bomo Imele kaj ročne blagajne. V maju smo priredile kard p ar dl ln sedaj se pripravljamo za piknik, ki se bo vršil 22. Julija v Center Bach, to Je eno miljo proč od mesta. Peljete se po Route 80. Prostor je zelo vabljiv, ker se nudi po-setnlkom vsakovrstna zabava. Za tiste, ki se želijo kopat je lep kopalni prostor, za plesaželjne je pa na razpolago prostorna plesna dvorana. Vljudno vabimo vse članice kakor tudi od sosednih podružnic lz North Braddock, Verona, Pittsburgh, Stra-bane itd. Pridite torej od blizu ln daleč, ker zabava bo prvovrstna. Mno- gi se radi peljejo ob sobotah ven lz mesta in to bo kakor nalašč za priti. Lačni ln žejni boste dobili vsega, kar sl boste želeli. Pričetek piknika Je ob sedmih zvečer. Pridite ln me pridemo ob priliki tudi na vaše prireditve. Zelo rade bi se z vami spoznale ln mogoče bo tudi vam v veselje se spoznati z nami. Ne pozabite 22. Julija ob sedmih zvečer na Center Beach. — Poadravl Paoli ne Kokol, zapisnikarica. Ann Petrich Organizer of Br. 96, Universal Podružnica št 96, Universal, Pa., je bila ustanovljena 23. marca 1939 z 16 začetnimi članicami. To podružnico je ustanovila Mrs. Anna Petrich, gl. odbornica prosvetnega odseka. To je že osma nova podružnica, ki Jo je ona ustanovila. V odbor so bile izvoljene Julia Starman, predsednica; Mary Pavlik, tajnica; Annie Jelovchan, blagajničarka. (( =». S.W.U. HISTORY \— ------- —J Branch 96 of Universal, Pennsylvania was organized by Anne Petrich of Warren, Ohio on March 28, 1939 with sixteen charter members: Florence Boyt, Frances Boyt Velicic, Alice Demshar, Margaret Demshar, Mary Demshar Pivirotto, Mary Demshar, Frances Habjan, Mary Habjan Sacsek, Anna Jelov-chan, Johanna Kokal, Mary Kokal Bohar, Pauline Kokal, Mary Previc Pavlik, Helen Prcvic Grabowski, Victoria Demshar Pryatel, Julia Eržen Starman. The newly organized branch chose as their first officers the following young women: President, Julia Starman Vice President, Johanna Kokal Secretary, Mary Pavlik Recording Secretary, Pauline Kokal Treasurer, Anna Jelovchan Sentinel, Mary Bahor As a newly organized branch, meetings were held every month and then later they were held every three months at various Slovenian Halls in Universal or Center. At times the meetings were also held in the homes of members. STATE CONVENTIONS Branch 96 hosted two State Conventions. The first one was held on April 18, 1970 in St. Januarius Church Hall in Renton, PA. The National President, Mrs. Antonia Turek and her husband attended along with Mrs. Mary Tomsic, State President, from Strabane. The banquet cost $3.50 per ticket. The second State Convention was held at the same location on October 6, 1974. The National President. Mary Bostian and State President, Mary Tomsic attended. Banquet tickets were then $4.00 per person. Members of Branch 96 attended the State Convention on April 17, 1988 in Strabane, PA. Guest speaker for the event was National Vice President, Cirila Kermavner. The State Convention held in Acmetonia, PA was hosted by Branch 91 of Oakmont. Bernadette Kovacic, National co-chairlady of the Women’s & Junior Activities was the guest speaker. Members of Branch 96 attended both events. 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATED Branch 96 celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 1986 and six members celebrated 50 years in Zveza at that time. In September 1989, Branch 96 merged with Br. 91 of Oakmont, PA and now they exist as one branch. The members who transferred were: Mary Bohar, Anna Cestnik, Anna Fontana, Frances Kalik, Rozena Kokal, Albina Kosmach, Frances Kuchna, Kristine Kuchna, Antoinette Mozina, Mary Montanari, Mary O'Block, Jean Oswalt, Dorothy Peternel, Mary Jane Peternel, Mary M. Peternel, Anna Podobnik, Kathleen Podobnik, Mary Sacsek, and Mary Jerich. The members of Br. 96 posed for this photo in September of 1962. Front row: Mary Klemenčič, Mary Sacsek, Mary Bohar, Helen Richter, Pauline Kokal; Second row: Mary Mlinar, Anna Jelovchan, Frances Velicic, Mary Humar; Third row: Mary Peternel, Frances Habjan, Dora Peternel, Irene Zvarelli, Anna Podobnik, Mary Likar, Frances O’Block On September 8, 1963 the ladies of the branch once again posed for a branch photo. First row: Mary Peternel, Dora Peternel, Julia Starman; Second row: Mary Sacsek, Mary Klemenčič; Third row: Pauline Kokal, Frances Habjan, Mary Mlinar, Helen Richter, Anna Podobnik. " • ^ S.W.U. HISTORY v ) Pleasant Pennsylvanians at the State Convention These photos were printed in the April, 1971 ZARJA after a successful State Convention for the branches of Pennsylvania, hosted by Br. 96, Universal (Renton). Top left photo shows the National President, Toni Turek, (fourth from left) with Honorary State President and long-time officer, Mary Tomsic of Strabane (right) and other Br. 96 officers. The top right photo and bottom were taken of the crowd of members attending from other branches. SPECIAL MEMBERS Branch 96 reached its 50th anniversary in 1986, and two members who worked hard and without any complaints during that time were Pauline Kokal and Mary Klemenčič. Both ladies attended every meeting unless they were very ill. They are credited with holding the branch together for 50 years. Mrs. Anna Podobnik celebrated her 100th birthday in 1989 with a party for relatives and friends. She lived at home with her son Philip. Anna also had three other children, Frank, August and Tillie Yearm. Anna came to America from Slovenia is 1928, and as of 1989 is the grandmother of nine and the great-grandmother of 13 youngsters. Many thanks to Mary H. Sacsek, Recording Secretary of Branch 96, from 1947 until it merged with Branch 91, for the information and two photos which she sent for this article. NOTICE TO BRANCHES! All the histories that were submitted will be published in the next few years. Look for many more exciting issues filled with photos and stories about the formation and early development of the branches. If your branch still needs to submit a history but has incomplete records, minutes and photos, consider looking through some past issues of the ZARJA. Check with your members for that special person who has saved back issues of our very informative monthly magazine. There’s a wealth of information in those old ZARJAS. You still have time to “get your act together.” Good Luck! flCTIUITIES ■ NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI Our Mother’s Day Mass for living and deceased members will be on May 16th at 10:30 a.m. at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church. We will celebrate our Member of the Year with brunch following mass in Father Cherne Hall. Please call Aggie at 452-8808. Leave a message for reservation. We hope to see a great number of members present. Thanks to all members who did such a great job baking for the past bake sale, it was a grand success. Belated Happy birthday to Frances Zindarish, on March 7th. She turned 93 and is still maintaining her own apartment. Happy Birthday also to Mary Godec who was 95 on March 15th. Mary is living at Meadow View Nursing Home. We have quite a few members who are shut-ins. Now that the weather is nice,how about stopping in to visit them? Our sympathy to the family of Jennie Babish of Br. I and to the family of Rose Kraemer of Br. 43, Milwaukee. May their souls rest in peace. Please pay your dues for 1993 as soon as possible. Happy Summer! DOROTHY BREZON1K NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL It seems that when Mother Nature wants to play tricks on us with the weather she always performs her best on our meeting nights. That was the case for our March meeting, however, there were 92 members and guests in attendance for our annual St. Joseph’s Table. The hall was decorated in green and red. Fran read a beautiful story about the life of St. Joseph, then Father Blase blessed the food. Each year we are always amazed at all the different foods that our members prepare and it is always so delicious. At our May meeting we will be honoring our Mother of the Year - Julia Petrich. Mass prior to the meeting. Our condolence to Irma Pesdertz and Anna Scieszka on the loss of their brother, Johnny Fickctt. We are sorry that we lost one of our oldest members, Mrs. Jennie Puhek. She had been sick for a long time. Mrs. Puhek was been a member of Branch 2 since it started and was always very active until her sickness. Our condolence to all her family, her daughters, Mary, Delores and Gen. Please remember her in your prayers that she will rest in peace. Please remember our sick and those members who are unable to attend the meetings with a card. Pray for our members who are in the hospital, especially my mom, Mrs. Luba Troha. Happy Mothers Day! Love, DAISY NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO Spring is in the air and what a wonderful feeling it is to be enjoying the beautiful weather we arc having. Let’s hope it lasts. When the Lenten season was in full swing, the ladies of St. Mary’s Church again served meatless soup every Wednesday after the noon Mass. On March 3rd, after we enjoyed the delicious soup, we had our meeting which was well-attended with 20 members present and one guest, Dorothy Brun-jak. Dessert was served by our hostesses Gertrude Jordan, Josephine Giar-ratano and Helen Galich. Mary Tekavec, President, opened the meeting with prayers and then reports where given and approved. The mystery gift (money this time) was donated by Agnes Glavich and won by our guest, Dorothy Brunjak. Dorothy donated it back to the branch. Thank you very much. Prayers were said for Anna Pachak and Jennie LuKanic. Anna Pachak, a Pueblo resident for many, many years passed away February 27, 1993. She was a very active member and leader of Branch 3 and national officer of S.W.U. Anna was 98. We extend our condolences to her family. Among our sick and those who have had surgery recently are: Mary Kochevar, Lillian Germ, Irma Drob-nick, Mary (Grandma) Kochevar, Al Kochevar, Lena Kochevar’s husband, Marie Lindvay and Richard Beard, husband of Marie Kastelic Beard. We wish them all a speedy recovery. Our condolences also go out to the family of Joann Hrobak Sonata, who passed after March 5, 1993. She was the daughter of Ann Hrobak. Congratulations are in order for Joan and John Mihalick on the birth of a granddaughter and Anna Klun’s great granddaughter, February 25. Parents are Lori and James Mihalick, San Diego, California. Congratulations are also in order for Marge Mihalick and Ricky G. Boyd on their engagement; they will be married May 29 in San Bernardino, CA. Marge is the daughter of Joan and John Mihalick and granddaughter of Anna Klun and Rick is the son of Dora Thompson of Redlands, CA. Our next meeting is May 5, 1993. PAULINE PAUCHICK NO. 5, INDIANAPOLIS, IN May 13, 1993 This is the date of our May luncheon of business meeting. We shall be honoring our "Members of the Year”: Florence Banich, Marianna Bayt, and Stella Watson. This is also, the date of our big raffle. It is not too late to turn in your raffle tickets or to purchase more. 1 have even sold some to Slovenians in Texas! Do not forget to bring yourself along with a covered dish to the Slovenian National Home at 11:00 a.m. On March 25, we lost a long time member of the SWU - Branch 5. Mrs. Ludmilla (Millie) Deal was a mother of five, a grandmother of 19, and a great grandmother of four. Branch 5 would like to extend our sympathy to Millie’s family, especially to her sister, Vicky Lambert. Vicky has also been a long time member of Branch 5. Without the support of such loyal members, we would not have an organization today. Branch 5 would also like to extend our sympathy to Frances Yovanovich, 90th Birthday Celebration Mary Pavlovich celebrated her 90th birthday on February 22, 1992 with her daughter, Mary Novak and grandchildren all gathered around her. She resides in Moreno Valley, CA and is a member of Br. 6. Sue Ann Yovanovich, and Debby and Sarah Williams on the death of Alex Yovanovich: husband, father, and grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mary Urbančič has given me a photograph taken of Branch 5 in approximately 1930. Mary remembers quite a few of the women in the picture, but not all. If you have a similar picture and can help us put all the faces with names, please let us know. It is a great item to keep in the organization. Anyone who has not paid their dues can do so at the May meting. Do not forget our raffle. I am sure Mary Frances Mohr will have raffle tickets available at the meeting or call her now for more. I will not be able to attend the May meeting, but I hope you all have a good time and that I win one of the prizes, I do wish Good Luck to all who have entered the raffle. My thoughts will be with you on May 13. BARBARA MOHR NO. 6, BARBERTON, OH From Branch 6, I wish 1 could pick the Mother of the Year. There are 26 ladies plus three social members who deserve this honor. I do want to mention the four oldest members of our branch: Anna Luzier - age 92 - with 62 years membership; Josephine Maver - age 91 - with 58 years with us; Mary Pavlovich - 91 - with 46 years with us; and Pauline Barberich - age 90 - with 57 years with us. The only one who does not live in our area is sister Pavlovich who is with her daughter in California. The president of Branch 6, Jeanette Killoran as well as myself want to wish all the ladies of Branch 6 the happiest of Mothers Days! MOTHER’S DAY Though she may not understand life's winding way... Lead her in peace divine. / cannot pay my debt For all the love that she has given, But Thou, love’s Lord, Wilt not forget Her due reward-— Bless her in earth and heaven. Henry Van Dyke LINDA K. LAMBRIGHT NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH On March 24th, the meeting was called to order by Pres. Steffie Segulin. In attendance were 13 members. Prayers were said for our sick and deceased members. Pres. Steffie Segulin read the minutes of Jan. 20 which I was unable to attend. The treasurer’s report was given by Theresa Dagg. Her address is 1910 Rosemont Rd., East Cleveland, Ohio 44112, telephone, 681-5379. Dues can be sent to her for 1993. We discussed and approved a change of meeting date to the fourth Wednesday of the month. Wc have a total of 186 members. Please try to bring a new member to the meeting. Election of a vice president was held and Mary Podlogar accepted the position. Sgt. at arms was Lucy Romik. Congratulations! We had one death, Antonia Stradj passed away. We send sympathy to her family and to the following who have lost loved ones: our member, Antonia Kerjicnik on the loss of her husband, Ernest; Mary Krann on the loss of husband, Ed; to the family of Frank Fabec on the loss of wife, Mae; to Tony Petkovšek on the loss of his father, Anton; Ann Tercek on the loss of her daughter, Carol. May they all rest in peace. Voted upon our Mother of the Year. She is Mary Princ. Congratulations. She will be honored at a dinner on May 26th at the Slovenian Home on Holmes Ave., first floor, 1 p.m. Please try to attend, bring a friend, guests arc welcome. Reservations must be made in advance by calling 944-4954 or 531 — 7635. Discussed were dates and plans for our Christmas party which will be held in November. More on this later. Keep Oct. 17th open, the date for our annual State Convention at this year. It will be held at St. Lawrence Church Hall. Buses will be arranged. A raffle was held after the meeting was adjourned. Refreshments served and many thanks to the ladies who baked and helped. Happy Mothers Day and blessings to all. ANN STEFANČIČ REMARKS AT THE B5TH ANNIVERSARY BANQUET OF BRANCH 16 NAJPREJ ŽELIM IZREČI PRISRČNO DOBRODOŠLICO US EM, KI STE SE V TARO LEPEM ŠTEVILU ozzubli m prišli nn proslavo bs obletnice društva ŠT. 1B slovenske ženske zveze. Branch 16 of the Slovenian Women’s Union held their first meeting in the Home of Mrs. Agnes Zupancic-Cherne on February 22, 1928. Those who attended that first meeting, our charter members, were: Agnes Zupancic-Cherne, Angela Gorenc, Hannah Kocka, Mary Miklavčič, Mary Novak, Anna Rodish, Josephine Samotorchan, Barbara Sim-cich, Angela Sintich, Anna Makovec, Mrs. Katie Triller, Helen Vuksinich, Antonia Yake and AmeliaZec. The person responsible for enrolling most of the members at that time was Agnes Mahovlic, also known as “Fugina”. She was honored as Convention Queen and the National Convention banquet on June 28, 1936. Mrs. Agnes Zupancic-Cherne was the first President and today her daughter, Olga Kowalkowski and Daughter in law, Fran Zupančič, are still members and present with us on this wonderful occasion. Josephine Samotorchan was the first Secretary and with us today is her daughter, Mary Meyers. Katie Triller was a Charter Member of Branch 2 but was also an organizer of Branch 16 because of her many contacts in the neighborhood and St. George’s Church. Katie was President for 36 years and was also elected as First National Vice President and later served as a National Auditor. She attended many conventions as a delegate and was chosen Woman of the Year in 1973. Her niece, Edna Winters is the present President and her niece, Gloria Serapin is our member. Josephine Krai was Vice President for 25 years and was the first Mother of the Year for our Branch, in May of 1952. Her daughter, Mary Rago, is our present Vice President. Presidents after Katie Triller were her niece, Jean Buk-vich, then Marge Prebil and Mary Ann Sambol for one term. Later, Marge Prebil resumed the presidency. Our present President is Edna Winters, Katie Triller’s niece. One of our most active and devoted members is Ann Lustig who enrolled 109 members and was Regional President of Illinois-Indiana. She organized the celebration of our 50th Anniversary held in April 1978, plus many other parties and trips. She also organized the famous “S.W.U. Kitchen Band”. For each performance, all the band members were dressed in Slovenian national costumes! Gladys Buck is serving as Secretary for over 50 years. She also was Captain of the Cadets, was a Regional Delegate, as well as delegate to several National Conventions. She was the Fashion Editor in ZARJA and is still preparing and sending in to ZARJA all the important articles, like the History of our Branch and Motherof the Year information. Zora Yurkas organized bowling teams, one of which, “South Chicago Aces”, won the 1943 Tournament Championship in Milwaukee. She also worked with the Cadets and was Secretary of our branch. Zora is presently residing in the rest home in Whiting and we all wish her well. Her sister, Helen Milanovich is our long-time member. Sylvia Spretnjak has been taking care of our kitchen for almost 20 years. Together with her late sister. Marge Spretnjak, they made all of our Mother of the Year books, table decorations, pin-ons and other party favors. Sylvia is always ready to offer help and advice. She is also serving as an Auditor for many years. There were and still are many other deserving and devoted members who contributed so much to our progress. It would take too long to mention them all, but, we are certainly proud of them and thankful for all they have done. The sad part is, many are not with us anymore. The History of our Branch was published in two issues of ZARJA in May and July, 1992. In reading the history we see that our biggest projects were the Drill Team, Bowling Tournaments and the Kitchen Band. Along with all these activities our Branch has always promoted our beautiful Slovenian heritage and we are grateful to our parents, specially to our mothers and grandmothers who forever kept in their hearts their birthplace, whether it was a tiny village in Slovenia or a bigger town, whether it was a place in Croatia, Italy, or any other place, they passed down to their children their love for their heritage and homeland. Our sincere thanks to all the guests who attended today - you who are the children of our pioneers. We are especially happy that you are with us to celebrate our 65th Anniversary. Also, thank you, Fr. Raphael, pastor of St. George’s for the mass this morning and for your presence here at the banquet. To our Regional President of Illinois and Indiana, Romaine O’Brien, our best wishes and to Corinne Leskovar, Editor of ZARJA, thanks for being here. We are very happy to have a representation from Branch 95, headed by president, Millie James and Secretary Delores Hennelly. Thank you, ladies for coming. We are honored by this great crowd and wish you a happy day and hope to see you soon. Vida Kumse Mistress of Ceremonies The officers of Br. 16 attended this celebration dressed in their Slovenian national costumes, which were a beautiful sight at the procession before mass at St. George’s church the morning of March 21st, 1993. They were the hostesses for a lovely banquet held at the Golden Shell and to bring more meaning to the event, they exhibited many beautiful Slovenian heritage artifacts and historical pictures of the past 65 years. After dinner and speeches, the music of Frankie Kovacic Trio entertained the crowd with delightful Slovenian and Croatian folksongs. the sunny side oft SLOVEMIfin EXHIBIT AT IMTERHflTIOHflL MIGHT Top photo: Theresa at the display; lower right photo, her mom and dad. Member of Br. 20, Joliet, IL, Theresa Rozman and her family picked up the theme “LEARN ABOUT SLOVENIA” for Theresa’s St. Louis University, Parks College “International Night” held at the Alumni Center in March. “She was so enthusiastic about it that we just had to help,” said Theresa’s Mom, Mary. The Slovenia exhibit was one of 25 nationality displays and the only one from a Slavic country. Theresa readied two tables, with maps, literature, beautiful pieces of art and craft that she borrowed from relatives and friends. Her mom who is an excellent baker, baked small, individual-serving poticas that Theresa passed out to the visitors to the Slovenian booth. For this occasion, she also prepared a folder explaining what, where and why is Slovenia. Her little publication was very well received and many people thought it was an interesting thing to know a little more about one of the newest democracies in Europe. Theresa’s father, Bernie, was very proud of his daughter’s exhibition and was on hand to answer questions. Her brother Paul and sister-in-law, Rene Rozman joined another couple, Helen Williams and Franci Puc, in dancing a real Slovenian polka for the crowd. A video about Slovenia and music by the best Slovenian bands was another feature. Theresa got a lot of material from the SWU Heritage Museum to help her with facts and figures. “It was a real family venture, with SWU as a second support group,” she said! Ermenc-McLeod Funeral Home 5325 W. Greenfield Ave. Phone: 327-4500 Milwaukee, Wisconsin HABERMANN Funeral Home 805 N. 6th Street Sheboygan, WI 53081 ^lllk First Midwest Bank/Illinois 50 West Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60431 ~w National Association Member/FDIC We take time to help. FAULHABER FUNERAL HOME 17010 Lake Shore Blvd. 4703 Superior Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 531-6300 Funeral Pre-Need Planning - Trusts NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, Wl Our March meeting was great even tho we had to put up with remodeling at St. Peter’s Church. We didn’t mind a bit, with delicious chop suey for lunch, made by our cook, Phylis. For dessert we had jello. Glad to see Ann Crambow and Alma Hoelzer with us. Jean Wolczewski had a stay in the hospital but is now at home. Ann Jelinek is in and out for tests. Our charter member, Mary Bucovnik had a hip replaced and is at home, doing great according to her sister, Ann Paulin. The members wish you all good health. We were saddened to hear of the death of Rose Kraemer, secretary of Br. 43 for many years. We extend our sympathy to the family and wc remembered her in our prayers at the meeting. Leona Zigman was in Florida for three months. No wonder 1 couldn’t get you on the phone! Sylvia Kotze spent a week in Florida at Disneyworld with her family. Rose Luebke and her husband flew out west to be with her daughter for Easter. Folks, keep traveling while you can, but, be sure you’re back for our meetings! Wc discussed our Luncheon in April and the Mother of the Year party in May in honor of our Mother of the Year, Kate Osep, our fabulous potica maker. Members were asked what donations of food they would bring. 1 received some money donations, too, so we’ll buy anything we need additionally and no one will go home hungry. Stavia and Jo Wilhelm take care of the attendance prize every month and decide what we need to fatten our kitty. On March 21st our member, Steffie Bashell’s husband, Louis (the Silk Umbrella Man) was honored by the Fine Arts Council of UWM. Louie received the Award of Merit, adding this to his award at Washington, D.C. in 1987, and in 1989 when his band was honored in Santa Fe, NM where they entertained the visitors at the Santa Fe Museum. On the wall in the Art Gallery hangs a 2’ x 4’ polarized photo of Louis and the band which is seen by hundreds of visitors from all over the U.S. There is an inscription: "Slovenian Folk Artists”. Congratulations, Louie! This award is one you richly deserve. For some one who took up plumbing, you excel more in playing our Slove- nian music. Louie left the plumbing to his brother, and he stayed with the ac-cordian. So, you see. Milwaukee has many Slovenian talents and we are proud of them. Be sure to attend our May meeting for a fine lunch and to honor our Kate Osep. Stay healthy. MARY KIEL NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Our March meeting was on exceptionally lovely day. Following the meeting we had a luncheon and B Party with all the delicious sandwiches, salads, jellos and desserts you could eat and fun games. We had a very nice turnout and everyone had a good time. We are looking forward to our Brunch for our Woman of the Year, Doreen Sustarich. This will be at the Downtown Marriott, May 23. Contact Josephine Aiuto for reservations. This always a beautiful day and the food is marvelous. I have just returned from a week in Joliet, 1L after attending the Board of Director’s Meeting. It is always a joy to see these lovely ladies and to attend another branch’s function (Br. 20). 1 went to their meeting and wonderful pot luck. Seems we all have a common problem though, we need new members. Please ladies, we must keep our SWU alive and thriving. Try to bring in a new member this year. I would like to send Get Well Wishes to all the members on the sick list. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to the family of Betty Doherty, who lost her beloved husband, Frank. This was truly a loving couple and he will be greatly missed. Wishing everyone a beautiful Mother’s Day. BEVERLY JACKSON 16, SO. CHICAGO, IL On March 13th we had the Storm of the Century, one of the worst blizzards of our time and it was on our meeting day! Would you believe that 13 ladies showed up for the meeting and the treat of corned beef sandwiches! We had a good meeting, preparing for the 65th anniversary on March 21st. Up to that date we had sold only 40 tickets for the banquet, and in just one more week, SWU Crest indicates the 65th Anniversary of this branch in 1993. C ongratulations ! we sold another 45! What a successful party this was. It was great to have several members from Br. 95, our neighbors, attending and Regional President, Romaine O’Brien. Also present was our Pastor, Fr. Raphael and our lovely editor, Corinne Leskovar who came to celebrate with us. She and our Vida Kumse became great friends. Vida was the Mistress of Ceremonies and did an outstanding job. Everyone in attendance enjoyed the food, friendship and reunion. There was good music, too, by Frank Kovacic and his trio. Thanks to all who helped make our 65th anniversary the success that it was! Mary Jane Strus returned from 3 weeks vacation in Arizona visiting friends. Manda Maggio was selected as our Mother of the Year, 1993. She will crown our Blessed Mother statue at the celebration on May 13th at 6 p.m. at the Crow Bar Restaurant. Call Gladys for reservations, 221-0475. Mary Pterko is back in the hospital. Wc are praying for you and wishng you better health, Mary. Welcome two new members, Lena Amicarelli and Tina Sertich who recently had a fall and broke her leg. Hope you feel better soon, Tina. Our long-time member, Anna Lesko passed away on March 15th and on the 23rd, her husband, John, died. Our deepest sympathy to the family on this double loss. E.W. 17, WEST ALLIS, WI We are finally seeing some signs of spring after this long, dreary and tiresome winter. It is a welcome sight to see the crocuses poking through the ground, even the sight of the dandelion is welcome. Our Valentine party after the close of our Feb. meeting was a lot of fun, a nice way to chase away the winter blahs. The treats were delicious as we celebrated two birthdays, Mitzie Marolt and Loni Limoni. We sang happy birthday, of course, in perfect harmony. Cupid, with his bow and arrow, hit twice in our branch! Robin Marolt and Lori Yaklich are making wedding plans. Lori’s wedding date is April 9th, 1994 and Robin plans a fall wedding in 1994. Just a reminder - we will honor our Mother of the Year, Helen Pizar at a 12:30 luncheon on Wednesday, May 9th at Kegel’s Inn on So. 59th and National Ave. Please plan to attend and make this a happy and memorable day for Helen. Contact secretary, Robin Marolt at 327-1444 or president, Marion Marolt at 327-3871 if you can attend so reservations will be made for you. Coming events worth attending: On May 1st, Sloga lodge will hold their dinner dance and recognition of 50 Year Members at Kuglitsch’s on So. 43rd and Greenfield. You can obtain the tickets from secretary, Adolph Kovacic and we hope you plan to attend and enjoy the comraderie of friends, plus a dance or two. A speedy recovery to Mary Paul and all our sick and shut-in members, be they at home, hospital or nursing home. May the beginning of spring bring renewed strength to all and a Happy Mother’s Day to our moms. FRAN PIWONI 20, JOLIET, IL Branch member, Lucija Dragovan creates watercolor paintings and prints. Through the past several years she’s received a number of honors and recognition for her work, including the prestigious “signature status” from the Midwest Watercolor Society. You can see her work June 5th and 6th at the 57th Street Art Fair in Chicago’s Hyde Park. At this time we’d like to extend our sympathies to the family of Anna Ster-nisha, who passed away. Anna was a 50 year member and an old time bowler. Sympathies go out to the family of Frances Gregorich. Frances was “Mother of the Year” in 1988. She was, also the oldest member in Branch 20. She died at age 98. Heart felt condolences go out to Mary Mauric, on the loss of her brother, Frank Rogel, and to his widow, Johanna Rogel. Sympathies are extended to Mary Ambrozich on the loss on her brother, Frances Schultz for the loss of her father and to Lillian Stefanich on the loss of her daughter-in-law. Wishes for a speedy recovery are extended to Marge Franze, Jo Lustik and Marge Gasperich. Ladies, we hope to see you all up and around soon. May 18th at 6:30 at St. Joe’s Park we will be honoring our “Woman of the Year”, Helen Horwath Lillian Cepon will be catering the affair. Members are free and guests are $5 each. Magician Dave Bogdan will supply the entertainment. Also, at this time the Scholarship Awards will be presented, so bring those junior members with you. We hope to see you all there. The evening promises to be exciting. Also, (This is important, so mark your calendars.) Sunday, June 6th at 8:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church Joliet, Branch 20 will celebrate their 65th anniversary with a Mass. Your presence can only help to make it all the more special. Before I close, I’d like to congratulate Helen Horwath on being selected “Woman of the Year” and wish all the mothers of our branch a Happy Mother’s Day. Since there’d be no mothers without fathers and vice versa, and we have no June issue of ZARJA, Happy Father’s Day to you dads in Branch 20. DIANE HRUBOS 23, ELY, MN At the March meeting there were 40 members present. Thank you notes were read from families of Ann Mik-laucic and Frances Maki, and also a note from Frances Mehle. We arc all looking forward to the “Mother of the Year” dinner in May. Committee members for this dinner are: Mary Landa, Virgie Ivancich, Mary Evanish, Mary Petritz, Mary Ann Lekatz, Kris Garni, Florence Markovich, Frances Pengal, Mary Jamnick and Bev Lobe. The door prize for the evening was won by Rosemarie Buckner. After a delicious lunch, a “great” time socializing kept everyone enjoying the togetherness of this group. JANE YADLOSKY, Reporter 24, LA SALLE, IL Fourteen members answered the roll call at our March meeting. It is certainly gratifying to have such a nice enthusiastic group of ladies to work with. Their was no old business pending so we made all the arrangements for our “Pots and Pans” potluck dinner. We were hungry by the time the menu was completed: Fried chicken, au gra-tin potatoes, green rice, hot vegetables, vegetable salads, jello salads, calico beans, fresh home baked rolls and for dessert kolachy and apple strudel and cheese cake and there would be so much more. Some of the members who weren’t at the meeting promised to come to dinner so there will be some surprise dishes. The Holy Name Society was meeting at the same time in the La Salle Catholic South School gym and having their annual pig roast. They had extra food, and counted the heads at our meeting. They sent fourteen plates of delicious roast pork, mashed potatoes, gravy, bread dressing and sauerkraut to our meeting. We really appreciated the treat and it took care of our hunger pangs. Marie Washkowiak passed away on March 23. Marie was a 60 year member of our branch. There was a short visitation in Resurrection Church before the funeral Mass, so we didn’t say the SWU funeral ritual together as we do in the funeral home. We will use the ritual at our April meeting. Marie is survived by two nephews, William and Robert Urban, her husband, Joseph, preceded her in death in 1973. Our sympathy too, to Terese and Walt Kinczewski whose brother, Joseph Kinczewski passed away in February after a short illness. We pray that God will grant Eternal Rest to our loved ones. Wanita Helmer is confined to her home with a fractured shoulder after a fall, this after a seige of colds and flu, during the month of January. Theresa Jensen is reported as recovering from a sick spell at home. We pray that both will be feeling better soon. A donation of $25.00 was made to the Lighted Way Developmental Center. This annual donation is always appreciated by the staff of this school which does such fine work with youngsters. We welcome a new member, Dar- A CRAFTY IDEA! I have made good use of my “free” time in Florida. The afghan for Branch 73’s money-maker is finished, the crocheted Christmas tree skirt is finished and the beautiful June Bride (which many of you have seen in various stages) will be completed in a couple of weeks. She is truly my pride and joy. Wish I could share her with everyone. She will be a gift for a godchild being married in June (counted X-stitch done on green linen). I have a pattern for an afghan (knitted) which is made in squares using two colors. The friend who gave me the pattern has made so many of them, and each one is prettier than the one before. Depending on the size you will want, 6-7 inch squares will probably require 35-40 (squares) pieces. 1 am sure you will be pleased with the results. The pattern is yours for $2.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Make checks payable to ZARJA and mail to: Evelyn A. Majercik 49 Beverly Port Orange, Florida 32127 lene Krueger. We hope you will enjoy meeting with us and participating in our activities. Your mother, Christine Witek, was a bright light at all of our meetings and we enjoyed her company so much and all of us miss her. There will be no “Mother of the Year” in 1993. All members will be honored at our May dinner to be held on Thursday, May 6th at noon at the Maples Supper Club in Peru. Betty Stack will serve as Chairman and reservations will have to be made with her by Tuesday, May 4th - her phone number is 224-1949. Plan to come, we always have a good time and Betty plans a nice party. We congratulate all the elected Mothers of the Year and w-ish them a Happy Mother’s Day and we wish all of our Mothers good health and much happiness. ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter 26, PITTSBURGH, PA A few of our frequent travelers took advantage of winter’s do-nothing time and took off for far away places to visit with family and friends. Mary Hudak Dekleva visited California for three weeks in January. She enjoyed being with her brother in law and nephews. She also was lucky enough to be there before the rainy season. Mary Slaney and daughters tried their luck at Atlantic City for a few days and came home about even, money-wise, Magdalene Burns also visited the casinos in Atlantic City in January; they all had an exciting time as it did away with the winter blahs! Dorothy Ujcic Pietro spent some time in Florida visiting family. Jane Lynch joined Kalick’s Mardi Gras Weekend in Cleveland in February with three buses of people from Pennsylvania. A very good time was had by all. Polkas, fun and frolicking! The highlight of the affair was a polka mass at the Sheraton Ballroom, Center City, attended by a very large crowd from Ohio, Michigan and Penna. Maybe some of our Zveza members were also there from other states. Branch 26 has two long-standing and faithful members in hospitals: Barbara Bubash, 91 years young is at St. Margaret’s Hospital for the past three weeks. Anne Trontel Zagas is presently recuperating at her son’s home in the North Hills. Our prayers and best wishes to these two of our favorite people! * * * First meeting was on March 22nd after six weeks of very cold and snowy weather. Finally came the Blizzard of ’93! Hope all the treacherous weather is now oveer. Meeting opened with prayer by our president, Agnes Widina. Prayers were also said for our sick and shut-ins. We still have a few members requiring hospital and home care. They are Kathryn Bubash in St. Margaret’s Medical Center, Mrs. Mary Skerlong, hostess of the Slovenian Radio Program of Pittsburgh recuperating at home and Anne Zagas who is still at her son’s home in the North Hills. Prayers and best wishes to all of them Not too much news at this time as we only had twenty-one women attending our March meeting. The snow piles on the street corners must have kept them home. Greetings and sing-a-long for our January, February and March birthdays: Mary Slancy, our financial secretary (in January), Anne Cesnik, Anne Lokar, presently in a rest home after an operation, Anne Zalac, Mary Ferlan, Mary Zigon, Antoinette Jaketic, Marie DeMauro, Mary Capassio, Maria Martha, Catherine Jaketic and Rose Jesih. We also had two class B cancellations in February, Rita Adams and Sally Brunn. We were sorry about this and hope they reconsider. Thank you notes were received from Mary Skerlong and Sharon Ujcic Lubich of the radio program for Christmas donations we sent in. Many letters were read by our president from the Home Office. We need many, many more new members, young women and also more active members. To all Zveza members, we impart from our hearts wishes for a happy spring-time and Happy Mothers Day! JANE LYNCH NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Hermine Strainer lead our members in saying the Rosary for Lent at our March meeting. I did not attend the March meeting as my husband and I were on a trip to Atlantic City. Our bus driver was none other than Joe Walters, the nephew of our Ohio-Michigan Regional President, Evelyn Majercik. The weather was bad with ice and snow, then later, changing to rain. Joe was a fantastic driver considering the bad weather we had going to Atlantic City and we had a very enjoyable trip. We also saw our son, Frank, forafew hours while there. Secretary-Treasurer, Charlotte Perdan and husband, Rudy spent a few days vacationing in Chicago while Rudy was in a bowling tournament. They enjoyed their leisure time together. Traveling to Slovenia is Mary Žnidaršič, to visit her brothers and sisters. We wish her a safe trip and a very enjoyable visit. Congratulations to Ann Rossman. She became a great grandma for the seventh time. Anna has two girls and five boys as great grandchildren! Our Mother of the Year is Jean McNulty. A delicious meal will be prepared by Sophie Mazie. Members, please try to attend the dinner and bring a guest with you, on May 19th. Tickets may be purchased from any of the officers. Let us make it a very memorable evening for Jean. Our Mass will be on Sept. 15th at St. Christine’s Church for our living and deceased members. Please try to attend the mass. We will also have a social event coming up, a Chinese Auction on Oct. 20th. Admission will be $3 which will include refreshments and snacks. Members, don’t forget the Ohio-Michigan conference on Oct. 17th at St. Lawrence Church. Members all invited. On the sick list are Esther Garbincus, Thelma Lisching, Eleanor Latkovic, Anna Godlar and also, my husband, Frank who is recuperating after surgery. A speedy recovery to all who are sick. Vice President, Faye Starman was present at the meeting which was very good news for us! Her husband, Charles drove her and was a guest at the meeting. With the warmer weather coming, president, Ann Cooke and officers would like to see more members try to attend the meetings. Thanks to Ceal Znidar and Helen Kovačevič for reading the minutes and taking notes for me in my absence at the meeting. It was deeply appreciated. Happy Mothers Day to all ladies! FRANCES OGOREUC NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN Our meeting in March had another nice attendance. We received a letter from Irene Odorizzi to ask about memories of Marie Prisland and regret that we do not have members who had recollections of our Founder. Years ago. I’m sure we would have something to contribute, from Mary Pahulaor Barbara Yapel. As we do every year, we made an offering to the Bishop Baraga Foundation. We are still hoping he will be canonized during our lifetime. After our meeting, we had a games party and it was fun to watch what the winners received for prizes, some unique ones were won... like fresh daffodils I received. The money we made will be used to pay premiums for our 80 year and older members. Thank you to all who attended and contributed. The door prize was brought by Agnes Mesojedec and won by Mary Gornick. Our meeting in April had us planning our Mother of the Year Celebration honoring Eileen Poderzay. Hostesses were Sophie Zupanich and Marge Skala, the door prize brought by Margaret Mesojedec. Emma Betourne has returned after being in the San Francisco area since December 20 — she enjoyed being with her three children and their families. Some young people of our parish are busy with money-making projects to cover the cost of their trip to Denver to World Youth Day 1993, all of them have been successful. Our member, Helen Adkisson, will go along as a chaperone, we hope you will have a wonderful time, Helen. Member, Theresa Berg, had hip replacement surgery on March 19, we hope she will make a good recovery. The Tower-Soudan Community Choir performed a concert on April 3 and members Helen Adkisson, Lucille Svatos, Adeline Mustonen and Molly Wilson offered to make bars for the coffee an’ — thank you, ladies. This is a busy time of year but enjoy the warmer weather. ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN Our March meeting was held on Sunday, Mar. 7, and as usual this year, the weather was threatening. We were pleased to have 20 members present, including Phyllis Kukar, Josephine Fenda and Helen Zallar from Gilbert. We still encourage more members to actively participate. My exciting news was me birth of my 5th grandchild! My daughter Barbara and son in law. Hank Schoonover have a baby girl, Valerie Anne, born 3-3-93 in Minneapolis. I enjoyed five days with them and of course my little sweetheart will be a brand new member of S.W.U.! We have found someone willing to knit our donated yarn into an afghan, so we will use that for a future moneymaker. We still have a few cookbooks left and are anxious to sell them. They make wonderful birthday and Mother’s Day gifts. Ann Geržina and Ann Boczkur volunteered to make the arrangements for our “Woman of the Year” Banquet. Members enjoyed a reading of my great aunt Sylvia Skedel’s story about “Coming to America”. She is 95 years old, and lives in Kingman, Arizona. I have so many wonderful memories of her and feel so fortunate to have known her. My mother Annie Purkat will be 91 in April and it’s hard to imagine having her aunt living and well at 95! She still writes us now and then and her letters are still as interesting as she is in person. Those written memories are an invaluable treasure! Molly Zam-len and Margaret Setnikar served a delicious Mandarin Orange Cake dessert. JEAN KORSMAN NO. 40, LORAIN, OH It was a snowy Wednesday on March 10th and the weatherman predicted 3 to 4 more inches of snow, but that didn’t stop 22 faithful members from attending and enjoying a delicious soup luncheon served by Martina Woelfl, Angie Zgonc, Helen Sekularand Agnes Mroski. Thanks and thanks again for all the prizes for our money-making project. The door prize went to our Francine. Agatha took over for our president and brought the meeting to order. After reports were read, we made plans for our Mother of the Year dinner that will take place at the German Villa on May 13th at 2 p.m. at which time we will honor our Agnes Serazin. Reservations are necessary so call 988-7768 if you have any questions. A letter from our National President was read asking us to try to enroll new members since so many of our older members are passing away. We were also asked to donate to the Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont, Illinois. Francine and Angie Martin made mo- Dearly Departed Members tions that we donate $50. We all approved. Manny Teitelbaum received first prize in a speech contest given by the Rotary Club in Lorain. He attends Southview Hi School. He is a talented musician and sings and plays the organ at Saturday evening mass at St. Cyril and Methodius Church. Proud grandma is Mary Ferlic. Morena Bruhn, 7 months old, recently participated in Ohio Sunburst Baby contest at Euclid Square Mall. She competed in the beauty category and won the composite award becoming eligible for competition in Columbus. Morena is the daughter of Sue Ellen and Michael Bruhn. Her proud grandpa is Milo Uehlein and grandma was our long-time, late president, “Binnie” whom we miss very much. She was also a National Officer of S.W.U. Congratulations to all! We wish to express our sincere sympathy to our Genevieve Wenzel on the recent death of her 87 year old brother, Joseph Zimmerman. May God grant him eternal rest. We will not have a meeting on May 12th but hope to see you at the Mother of the Year dinner in honor of our Agnes Serazin. Happy Mother’s day to all Mothers and especially to our Agnes. Love, MARY MATOS NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH We are all glad that winter is now behind us and we can happily look forward to summer. Our bakeless sale in April was a tremendous success with special thanks to the many generous contributors. Condolences to our former Ohio-Michigan President Ann Tercek on the passing of her beloved daughter Carol Piccirello this past March. We wish to congratulate Theresa and Louis Ferfolia on their 66th wedding anniversary, last month. Our Donna Stubljer became a proud great-grandmother for the 12th time with the birth of Alec Pichowski on March 6 to Donna’s granddaughter. Scott and Kelly Gaines had an extra happy Easter because their father who is currently working in Paris, France, flew home for a week to spend the holiday with them. Scott and Kelly are 1 - Jennie Babisch (76) 18-yr member 2 - Jennie Puhek (90) 53-yr member 3 - Johanna Lukanick (92) 45-yr member Anna Pachak (98) 58-yr member 7 - Josephine Sever (79) 41-yr member 10 - Antonia Stradjot (89) 45-yr member 12 - Mary Starich (80) 52-yr member 14 - Florence Lapuh (77) 37-yr member 15 - Rose Rodic (96) 59-yr member 16 - Anna Lesko (82) 57-yr member 20 - Frances Gregorich (99) 65-yr member Anna Stemisha (80) 50-yr member 22 - Anna LaMontagne (85) 58-yr member 23 - Frances Maki (79) 22-yr member 24 - Marie Waskowiak (93) 60-yr member 25 - Jennie Bochar (83) 51-yr member grandchildren of Josie Gruden. Timmy Lipnos, with his wife, son and daughter of Portland, Oregon visited his mom and dad, Marge and A1 Lipnos during March. They had an enjoyable visit seeing relatives and all their school friends. “An Awareness Marriage Workshop” was held at St. Mary’s Church in Collinwood on Mar. 26 and 27, which was extremely inspiring and thought-provoking. It was sponsored by the Ohio Branches of SWU. The workshop was led by Father Christian Gostečnik, who is a Franciscan Priest and Psychologist from Chicago. Our Marge Church attended and strongly recommends that you plan on attending the next Workshop which hopefully, 30 - Mary Vicic (92) 54-yr member Charter member No. 94 32 - Mary Stmad (102) 57-yr member 33 - Izona Borich (75) 75-yr member 43 - Rose Kraemer (84) 60-yr member 45 - Lee Covach (87) 42-yr member Frances Zaversnik (90) 65-yr member 50 - Mary Ivec (76) 38-yr member - Carol Piccirello (51) 14-yr member Josephine Seelye (92) 62-yr member Charter member No. 50 54 - Margaret Racher (88) 53-yr member - 56 - Mary Meadows (88) 51-yr member 85 - Frances Machak (74) 33-yr member 91 - Frances Feme (92) 52-yr member 95 - Matilda Cacich (96) 43-yr member will be planned for later this year. May 11 is the date for our Mother’s/ Woman of the Year dinner and Mass, honoring all our Mothers. We will have dinner at 4 p.m. at the Slovenian Home. Our dinner is being prepared by Mitzi Champa to whom we are very grateful. There will be a $3.00 charge for the dinner, so it is important you call in your reservation to Millie Lipnos -662-2252. Following the dinner, we will have our raffle drawing for the af-ghans and the fruit baskets. Following the dinner and raffle, we will attend mass at 7 p.m. at St. Wenceslas Church. Remember you still have time to buy raffle tickets before the drawing from Marge Church at 467-0696. We will have our last regular meeting June 8 at 7 p.m. before our summer Rose Kraemer 1909-1993 A good heart has stopped beating forever. Our secretary, Rose Kraemer died on March 9, 1993, following a stroke she suffered on January 28th. She was hospitalized until her death. We knew it was coming but prayed for her recovery. The Lord took her from our midst and straight to heaven! Rose Kraemer was a special lady, religious, a proud Slovenian, hard worker for the Slovenian Women’s Union, and Br. 43 was her life. She joined in 1933 and was a 60 year member. For the last 38 years, until her death, she was our secretary. Most of our members were recruited by Rose and she knew almost every member personally. Rose held the office of State President also, and other positions within hiatus. Please plan to attend. Also mark your calendar for the July 13 bus trip to Pymatuming Lake and picnic at Ann and Marge Zupančič cottage. Happy May birthdays to Antonia Stokar, Clara Hrovat, Dorothy Mehosky, Vida Shega, Samantha Thompson, Shawn Thompson, Dorothy Ponikvar, Mitzi Champa, Donna Wilk, Gretchen Wilk, Melinda Prhne, and Angeline Zupanc. Also a belated happy birthday to Dorti Zidar, who had a birthday in April. Please say a prayer for our sick members and shut-ins and remember to send them a card. DOROTHY MEHOSKY This is a double issue. No ZARJA in June. Next deadline for articles is June 1st, for the July-August issue. Thank you. the SWU. She was on the Scholarship Fund Committee and Sports Committee. She loved her church. We could see her every year selling religious articles in the lobby of St. John’s at Easter time or at the Lady’s Guild bake sale where she would be selling tickets in the lower hall. For the last couple of years she was in a wheelchair, but that did not stop her. Every Sunday morning she was at the 8:45 Slovenian mass. Rose loved her son who was always by her side and her daughter and granddaughter. She drew her strength from the strong love for her children and her faith. We said our last farewell at the Jelenc Funeral Home on 23rd and W. National Ave. That she was loved by all was visible at the wake and at the funeral mass on March 13th at St. John the Evangelist Church. Assistant pastor, Fr. Richard Verberg offered the mass with a very moving sermon. She was laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery on Milwaukee’s north side, next to her parents. Dear Rose, may the Lord reward you for all the good things you did for us. We will remember you, always. Our deepest sympathy to son, Richard, daughter, Rose Lee and her husband, and granddaughter, Kyle who was her pride and joy and to all other relatives. Počivaj v miru. Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Matilda Simcic, President NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI On March 24th, the meeting started with a prayer and lunch. Due to the death of our secretary, Rose Kraemer, the new secretary, Shirley Shulta was introduced. She is well known among us and a 53 year member herself! As a single girl she was an auditor, later, our recording secretary and vice president. So, welcome, Shirley, we are happy to have you as secretary. Shirley’s mother, Ceil Groth was also very active in our branch. Mother of the Year luncheon was finalized. We will meet on May 12th at 11:30 a.m. at the Pleasant Valley Inn, 9801 W. Dakota in West Allis. Let’s be there for our lovely Arline Fritz, whom we will honor this year. Call secretary, Shirley Shulta for your reservation. I know it’s long overdue but a nice Slovenian lady and Br. 43 member, Mrs. Amalia Fritzel celebrated her 90th birthday in January of this year. Because of Rose Kraemer’s illness, certain things went unnoticed. I am sorry, Mrs. Fritzel. “Vaše sočlanice Vam želimo še mnogo srečnih in zdravih let. Bog Vas živi, Mrs. Fritzel! A reminder: your dues may be overdue. If so, please make checks payable to Slovenian Women’s Union Br. 43 and mail to our new Secretary at her address listed below. Among our old records I found out that our Branch was organized on June 4th, 1930 by Bara Kramer of San Francisco, CA. She was my mother in law’s best friend and she is the reason I joined 31 years ago! Bara Kramer also organized Br. 13 in San Francisco and at the beginning we were known as the Slovenian LADIES Union of America! Have a nice summer and hope to see you at the next meeting at September. Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers and grandmothers! Remember our sick in your prayers - and send them a card -especially those in nursing homes. Our thoughts are with all of you! Secretary information: Shirley Shulta, 4001 South 90th St., Greenfield, WI 53228, telephone, 321-5762. MATILDA SIMCIC NO. 50, CLEVE.-EUCLID, OH It’s April Fools Day - and hoping that our blustry days of late winter are over - tired of the deep snow and hibernation. The daffodils and tulips are trying so hard to come up and say “it’s spring.” Maybe New Jersey will be a nice change for Ella and Frank Skoda who are visiting their daughter and family there for Easter. Do hope all our members and their families enjoyed the Easter Holiday. Daughter of Ann Kristoff, Sister Donna, O.S.U. entered her painting at the 38th annual Newman Religious Art show and won $150.00 third prize. Also won in the Jury Mention Awards - which was a painting of St. Michael the Archangel. Congratulations. ANN’S LOSS IS OUR LOSS! After a long illness, we have lost Carol Piccirello, daughter of Ann and Charlie Terček. I say we have all lost her because your daughters are all ours. And, anyone who knows Ann and Charlie, will be able to sympathize and share feelings. Carol was the second of Ann’s three daughters and the mother of twin girls, Debra and Denise. It was the closest of families. Carol totally devoted herself to her precious daughters and together with grandmother, Ann, epitomized love and caring. May she rest in eternal peace. We extend to those who grieve... “In the beautiful memories, may you find peace. In the love that surrounds you, may you find strength. We have honored our 50-year members in April with corsages and cake and the six members who are to be congratulated are Jean Kastelic, Maria Kelhar, Mary Winter, Frances Kikel, Bertie Erzen and Ann Winter. Stay well, ladies, and come and see us sometime at our meetings and doings - eh? our June picnic! Still at Euclid Manor is Fanny Kal-tenbach and is trying very hard to do her therapy to strengthen her one ailing side, but the wheelchair still gets her around. Cards or visits will be appreciated. Ann Orlikowski, after three months, is finally driving again since her accident. See you around playing cards, Ann. It is with deep sympathy and sadness we report the passing of Carol Piccirello, our member, and daughter of our president Ann Tercek. Only 50 years old, mother of twin daughters and too early to die of cancer. All of our Marie Prisland Cadets, dressed in their blue and white outfits, made with their presence a good showing of loyalty and care for the family at the wake. So happy to report the wonderful attendance of the No. 50 and other branches. It shows we care at times of adversity. It brings to mind of the death of our other young member that was just as popular and active in the community -Sally Furlick, daughter of Josephine Trunk and just about the same age. May God give the mothers strength as I know what you are experiencing as I did 22 years ago at our Allan’s (son) fatal accident at age 27, coming home from Boston to celebrate Christmas. It’s time we mention the names of our Cadets as they deserve to be commended, as rain or shine as many as possible come to wakes and funerals. “They are appreciated and rightly so.” Bo Bog Plačal “God will pay”. They are, at the present time, Josie Arko, Fran Hrovat, Alice Karberg, Stella Kostick, Mary Kovelan, Rosemary Mam, Jane Novak, Ann Orlikowski, Ann Tercek, Ann Parker, Ella Skoda, Ann Winter, Dorothy Ann Winter and Sophie Zagorc. We, the visitors, feel proud of you as you represent us and our feelings. And thank you also to the ladies who had been Cadets before. If any members would like to represent us as a Cadet, contact our president. Dorothy Ann Winter is getting our calling system in order so all members can be notified when a member dies. Thanks, Dorothy Ann - I can’t write it in the ZARJA if I don’t know about “it” so this will be a big help. Ann Tercek’s cousin finally was assigned to a Slovene parish. Father Ralph Ropret, an American was in Czechoslovakia and said learning their language was difficult so was happy to be reassigned to Slovenia. Ladies, no June ZARJA - remember our picnic in June (Wed.) 23rd at Euclid Club house at 1:00 p.m. Memorial Day coming - Euclid’s Parade is great and the 4th of July Fireworks! Pay your dues plus one buck to Evelyn Pipoly for added expenses. Z Bogom. VERA ŠEBENIK, Reporter NO. 54, WARREN, OH Due to inclement weather, we haven't been able to have a meeting since Christmas, and there’s not too much news to report exccpt that you will all be called for our annual Mother-Daughter Luncheon when we honor our member, Mayme Sporich as beloved Mother of the Year. Please join us for a lovely afternoon with your sister members. Our dear, faithful, charter member, and my teta, Margaret Racher passed away after she suffered a severe stroke. She lingered for a week and we are all sorry to lose her. We will all miss her. She leaves two daughters and 6 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Our members prayed at her bier as a group and our president prayed at the cemet- C.L. ery. Our prayers and sympathy to her family. She was quite a lady! President, Jo Kasan has a cast on her leg. She fell down her basement steps and fractured her ankle and when Jo can’t drive and come and go as she pleases, she’s not too happy! We hope that you mend quickly, Jo! Elsie Persin is still at Hillside Rehab and we send her our best wishes. Spring has finally arrived and soon we will see flowers and trees budding. Can’t wait! It's been a long winter. Happy Mother’s Day to all and may you have a lovely day with your families. My daughter, Pat, from South Carolina, will be home and I’ll be loving it! JOANNE PONIKVAR NO. 55, GIRARD, OH Our March meeting was cancelled due to the snow on 3/10/93. I was in the heart of snow country at a meeting in Middleburg Heights, Ohio. When I arrived at the meeting, snow was falling slowly and steadily. By the time our meeting ended, I could barely see my car in the parking lot. And of course, my boots were in the car - not on my feet! Our Mother-Daughter banquet has been CHANGED to Wednesday, May 19, 1993, at 5:30 p.m. It will be held at Little Peppino’s in Girard. Joan Twaddle is our Mother of the Year. Our branch is also celebrating its 60th anniversary. As a gift to our members, the branch will give each member Oh, what a delight she was! Losing a friend means many things. If she’s a school-mate, we begin to reflect on our own mortality. If she was a co-worker, our feelings go up and down thinking about the things we shared. If it is someone we have put into our past history or even someone in our present life, we will visualize a certain event or occurrence and that's that! Hut, losing someone who shared perhaps a whole lifetime, was a part of fun times, sad times, someone who was a model of what we would like to be — that’s a powerful sorrow! And so, we have lost our dear Jo Seelye, at the age of 91, a wonderful wife, mother, sister, friend. I haven’t seen Jo for many years, but just thinking about her brings a smile to my face. Wasn’t she something? Her voice and appearance was always peppy and energetic. She would walk around the hall when there was a gathering - or at a bowling alley - or a banquet room, a picture of grace and composure! She loved to be with people and conveyed sincere friendship in every gesture! Just look at her picture once more and I’ll bet you will say: Oh, what a delight she was! Jo passed away on March 12th, 1993. Our deepest sympathy to her family. Editor $5.00 towards the purchase of her dinner at the banquet!! May birthdays include, Mary Maček, Virginia Rostan, Andrea Selak, Anka Kregar and me. God Bless you and may all your days be filled with love and happiness in your homes. Thought for the month: Ljubo doma, kdor ga ima! Nasvidenje! DORI KREGAR NO. 56, HIBBING, MN Meeting was held on March 9th at First Ave. Apt. at 7:30 p.m. Mass for our deceased members will be held on Nov. 7th, 1993 at Blessed Sacrament Church at 11 o’clock. Pres. Carlson suggested that the branch hold a celebration for our 60th year coming up. Flowers for our shut-in members will be delivered to all of them for Mother’s Day. It was discussed that we have our Mother’s Day dinner at Woodlands Family Restaurant as our Christmas party was so enjoyable there. March birthdays were recognized. No further business, so the meeting closed with prayers. Jackpot was won by Valerie Carlson, bunco prize went to Jennie Satos. Cannasta to Ann Satovich and 50/50, Elizabeth Spolar. Sincerely submitted by EDITH JONES NO. 57, NILES, OH On March 9th we met at noon at Paul’s Restaurant in McKinley Heights for our meeting with 15 members present. After lunch, we opened the meeting with prayer. Minutes were read and approved as were the secretary’s and treasurer’s reports. Business discussed was our Mother’s Day party which will be held on May 11th at Paul’s. Our the sick list are Julia Yakop who is recuperating from foot surgery; also Mary Lukz is home recovering from knee surgery and hopes to be back in circulation soon. A few of our members are down with colds and we wish everyone a speedy recovery. We had a few members doing some vacationing. Frances Yerman, our president spent a week in Florida visiting her son and family. Mary Opalka enjoyed a lovely time in Las Vegas. Celebrated her 91st birthday in April! She said she would love to go back to Las Vegas! Other birthdays were celebrated by Carol Abdalla, Patricia Rusk and Nancy Lombart in March. We hope we have seen the last of our deep snow and that we will have spring coming in with some warm weather. We enjoyed playing games after the meeting was closed, and hope to see you all at our next meeting. There is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs! FRANCES STANEC NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH Happy Mother’s Day. We do hope that the day will be beautiful, starting with the weather, including visits/calls from children, grandchildren, etc., and ending with a prayerful thanks for all the good things in your life. To our Mother of the Year, Josephine Nowak! We are so happy to have you as our honoree. Jo is the mother of our Recording Secretary, Gloria Dusek. Jo attends as many meetings as her health permits and she participates in our social activities. Congratulations, Josephine, enjoy your day and all the days that follow. It’s nice to receive notes that tell you how much people enjoy reading the ZARJA articles. Thank you to Bea Trolli, Mary Ann Hlavaty and Betty Bayus for expressing their feelings. Vera Kozak is recovering from her ills; though still under doctor’s care, she is doing well. Mary Chesnik, living in Georgia, is improving after her recent stroke. Betty Bayus also let us know that she is “Grandma” again, and Angela Gliha is a great grandma. Congratulations to both of you, and to the happy families. Are new S.W.U. members among these newborns? Our sympathy to Helen Kunka on the passing of her sister, Mildred Kraluk. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Mary Ann Pikus is spending some time in Florida (hope the weather is good on your side of the state). I did see Kay Yuratovac and Helen Dodyk while they were in Clearwater — with many other S.W.U. members in the Bus Bum group. Incidentally, we did weather the BIG storm. Our home was damaged, but in looking around us, we were lucky. The winds were fierce, the rain was torrential and the lightning brilliant. But, we survived, we are well and that’s all that matters. A very special get well message to Leona Mandich. Leona was involved in a serious auto accident in March. She suffered many broken bones, especially in the chest area which has an effect on her heart and lungs. Her right leg is in a cast and she has had pins inserted into her wrists. Needless to say, there is a great deal of pain. After several days in ICU and a hospital stay, she is home under the ever watchful, caring and loving eye of her mother and her family. As you remember, Leona was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1991. She has done so well, was really on a road to recovery - and now this. Let’s all take time out for a prayer for her, and for her family. Hang in there, Leona. By the end of this month we will be returning to Ohio with a full schedule for the summer. I do hope our paths cross eventually. Until then, take care of yourselves. Respectfully submitted, EVELYN MAJERCIK NO. 79, ENUMCLAW, WA Ah, spring, and with it came the March dance of our local SNPJ Lodge 738 at which event our SWU ladies manned the kitchen to provide our spaghetti dinner for the dancers. This was a very successful fund raiser for us. All of the ladies who spent long hours in the kitchen deserve a lot of thanks - such team work, we can’t miss. Monica Podolak and her catering experience co-ordinated (and worked) the event. AnnaMae Anderson, Mary Kell, Annette Johnson, Lynnette El-lertson, and Steffie VanWeiringen and Fran Potočnik served for hours. Fran and Frances Potočnik baked and donated their delicious strudels. Kathy Vogel and her husband, Kurt, were busy at the dinner ticket booth, while ws amhwjte