II 6 4/88 NO. 7-8 JULY-AUGUST, 1995 VOL. 67 The z A R eT A D A W N * m ' ■ ms,. We take exceptional pride in naming the 1995-96 Scholarship Winners! CHRISTOPHER CAZIN JENNIFER DICKINSON JAMES HOFSOMMER KEEPING THE DEEM ALIVE! ft m ZARJA - THE DAWN (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 NO. 7-8 JULY-AUGUST, 1995 VOL. 67 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-inembers, $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, IL AH 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: 4X51 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 Telephone: (312) 548-8878 DATES TO REMEMBER July 16 ZVEZA DAY IN LEMONT, Br. 2, Chicago, IL Sept. 17 MINNESOTA STATE CONVENTION, Br. 39, Biwabik, MN hosts Sept. 17 WISCONSIN STATE CONVENTION & 65TH AN- NIVERSARY, Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Sept. 20 Commemorative Mass, Br. 32, Euclid, OH at St. Chris- tine’s Church, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 Picnic, Br. 50, Euclid, OH Oct. 1 OHIO-MICHIGAN STATE CONVENTION, Br. 25, Cleveland, OH hosts Oct. 18 Chinese Auction, Br. 32, Euclid, OH HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN JULY & AUGUST Past National Officers: July 8 - Olga Ancel, Secretary, Joliet, IL July 21 - Janet Maurin, Regional Pres, of Wisconsin, Sheboygan, WI Aug 26 - Beverly Jackson, Vice President, San Francisco, CA National Officers: Aug. 1 - PatriciaFigurowski, Nat’l Auditor, Joliet, IL Presidents: July 27 - Jill Augustine, Br. 103, Washington, D.C. July 5 - Ann Cooke, Br. 32, Euclid, OH July 6- Maria Selak, Br. 55, Girard, OH July 21 - Ann Tercek, Br. 50, Cleveland, OH Aug. 4- Betty Matjašič, Br. 101, Bedford Hgts., OH Aug. 7 - Rose Ivancic, Br. 5, Barberton, OH Aug. 22 - Mollie McIntyre, Br. 22, Bradley, IL Secretaries: July 7 - Eileen Kaplan, Br. 3, Pueblo, CO July 10 - Rosemary Donald, Br. 33, Duluth, MN July 18 - Mary Djubinski, Br. 102, Willard, WI July 19 - Mary Percic, Br. 67, Bessemer, PA July 23 - AlouiseEpley, Br. 73, WarrensvilleHts.,OH July 27 - Marylou Matthews, Br. 108, Virginia Beach, VA Mary Satkovich, Br. 97, Cairnbrook, PA Dorothy Szumski, Br. 101, BedfordHts., OH Moreen Spencer, Br. 13, San Fran., CA Virginia Bendich, Br. 59, Burgettstown, PA Frances Ulle, Br. 68, Fairport Hbr., OH Dorothy Bruce, Br. 71, Strabane, PA Charlotte Perdan, Br. 32, Euclid, OH Evelyn Pipoly, Br. 50, Cleveland, OH Aug. 2 Aug. 2 Aug. 7 Aug. 13 Aug. 16 Aug. 19 Aug. 20 Aug. 30 Carita Girman: FRANCES BARMAN SCHOLARSHIP What a way to honor your mother! Tony Colnar of Cleveland, Ohio has generously donated $1,000 to the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Program in honor of his mother, Frances Barman, a member of SWU Branch No. 25. With his donation, Tony established the Frances Barman Scholarship to recognize his mother being named 1995 Mother of the Year for Branch No. 25 and to show his appreciation of the many sacrifices his mother has made for him. (See May-June, 1995 ZARJA.) Tony was bom in Slovenia in 1919 - just six months before his father, Anton Colnar, died from wounds suffered during World War I. Faced with the challenge of being a single mother in war-torn Slovenia in 1920, Frances immigrated with her son to the United States, settling in the Cleveland area. To support herself and her son, Frances worked as a seamstress. In 1925, she married Joe Barman but was widowed again in 1936 when Joe became a victim of Hodgkins disease. Frances continued to work hard to support her son financially and emotionally through high school and college. With a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering, Tony has had an interesting career working for NASA. Now, as a loving tribute to his mother, Tony has funded the Frances Barman Scholarship. On page 13 read about all three of our 1995-96 Scholars and what they hope to accomplish in life! Slovenian Women's Union of America zznd nflnonflL CDnuEnnon San Francisco, California - May 19-21,1995 NEWLY-ELECTED NATIONAL OFFICERS National President JEAN KORSMAN Br. 39, Biwabik, Minnesota National Vice President KATHLEEN DORCHAK Br. 47, Garfield Hts., Ohio National Secretary EVELYN MAJERCIK Br. 73, Warrensville, Ohio National Treasurer BEVERLY MENART Br. 33, Duluth, Minnesota First Auditor CIRILA KERMAVNER Br. 25, Cleveland, Ohio Second Auditor MARJORIE CHURCH Br. 42, Maple Hts., Ohio Third Auditor PATRICIA FIGUROWSKI Br. 20, Joliet, Illinois Director of Culture & Heritage IRENE ODORIZZI Br. 103, Washington, D.C. Director of Women’s Activities KATHLEEN EMERSON Br. 105, Detroit, Michigan Director of Youth Activities KATHY SCHROEDER Br. 1, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Editor of ZARJA CORINNE LESKOVAR Br. 2, Chicago, Illinois ... . . OjTREETINGS TO S WU MEMBERS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY! Delegates at the National Convention in San Francisco have elected me to the most honorable position of President of our beloved Zveza. In the following editions of Zarja, I will try to communicate my hopes FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR ORGANIZATION. I HAVE MUCH TO LEARN!!! THERE WILL BE A MEETING ON JULY 16TH WITH THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND NEW OFFICERS. WlTH THE HELP OF PaST-PreSIDENT, TORY BoBENCE, AND THE SUPPORT OF ALL OF YOU, WE WILL TRY TO SET A SUCCESSFUL COURSE FOR SWU FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS. I PRAY I WILL PROVE WORTHY OF THIS AWESOME CHALLENGE. God bless the SWU! Fraternally and sincerely yours, Jean Korsman V J A REMARKABLE AND MEMORABLE CONVENTION! “I left my heart in San Francisco” says it all! The 1995 National Convention of the SWU of America is history but fond memories of San Francisco shall long be remembered. Upon our arrival at the Canterbury Hotel we were greeted by amiable and energetic S.W.U. Convention ’95 Chairman, Barbara Chiodo and National Vice President, Beverly Jackson. Words are inadequate to justify the countless courtesies given to the officers, delegates and guests during our stay. Tour Director, Michele Twers, who planned and directed all tours, did a remarkable job. Our heartfelt gratitude to Barbara, Beverly, and Michele and to all Br. 13 members and friends who were instrumental in making this Convention a huge success. (If we were asked to give you a grade it would definitely be an A + !) A brief summary of the convention proceedings and activities follows: The 22nd National Convention of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America convened on Friday, May 19th at 8:00 a.m. with the Call to Order; Credentials Committee Report consisting of 47 delegates, 1 alternate, 10 National officers and 3 Regional Presidents; Opening Ceremony—Fr. Chris Gostečnik giving the Invocation, National Anthem lead by Frank Shepel of Ely followed by the Pledge of Allegiance; Roll Call, Rules of Order, Welcome by Convention Chairman, and Welcome by President Tory; National President asked Evelyn Majercik to record the minutes for the Convention; a dynamic Keynote Address by Barbara Chiodo; Br. 34 delegate, Adrienne Micklich presented a beautiful floral bouquet to National President from Br. 34 members of Soudan and Tower; a Proclamation “Slovenian Women’s Union Day in San Francisco” on May 19th, signed by the Mayor of San Francisco, Frank M. Jordan was presented. Business Session I By-laws Committee Revisions by Corinne Leskovar, Chairman in charge. Motions made, seconded and carried were: Direct Billing, Term limit of two (2) terms of four (4) years each, Increase in all dues effective January 1, 1996. A lovely bouquet of flowers from Fr. Paul Maslach and Croatian Franciscan Press was received; Adjournment for San Francisco Cable Car Tour and lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf. Friday evening — Gala Welcoming Banquet — carnation corsages, elegant cuisine, beautiful and charming Diana Fir’s vocal renditions which captivated the heart and soul of all in attendance (standing ovation); beautiful hand crafted gifts to: 1st National Auditor, Marion Marolt who despite insurmountable odds due to illness managed to attend this Convention, our admiration and love; flowers and garden articles adorned a bright green sweater as well as a tote bag with “Tory’s Garden” printed and appliqued, faded flowers to Helen Ad-kisson and her sister who were married in San Francisco 50 years ago, POTS & PANS apron for Hermine who was unable to be with us due to ruptured appendicitis (all’s going well which is great news); gift to Frances and Frank Shepel who spent time at the Presidio during the war; an engraved gavel to President Tory presented by Barbara Chiodo, an engraved plaque and gift certificate from S.W.U. of Minnesota branches, an address and telephone book with flowers on every page from State President Jean Korsman and a hand carved cross given to me by Pat Figurowski. This was an emotional and enjoyable gala banquet. The outpouring of love and generosity was overwhelming! On Saturday, May 20th the official Convention Photo of National Officers and delegates was done in record time. Business Session II opened with a prayer by Fr. Chris. Motion made, seconded and carried to publish the ZARJA-THE DAWN 8 times per year; Report of Nominating Committee given by Josephine Lustik, Chairman. Officers elected: National President, Jean Korsman, Branch 39, MN; Vice President, Kathleen Dorchak, Branch 47, OH; Secretary, Evelyn Majercik, Branch 73, OH; Treasurer, Beverly Menart, Br. 33, MN; 1st Auditor, Cirila Kermavner, Br. 25, OH; 2nd Auditor, Marge Church, Br. 42, OH; 3rd Auditor, Pat Figurowski, Br. 20, IL; Cultural & Heritage, Irene Odorizzi, Br. 103, Washington, D.C.; Editor, Corinne Leskovar, Br. 2, IL; Women’s Activities Director, Kathleen Emerson, Br. 105, MI, and Youth Activities Director, Kathy Schroeder, Br. I, WI. Adjournment for Roaring Camp Tour — majestic redwoods—Western Barbecue with marshmallow roast. Sunday morning we convened at 9:00 a.m. since all business was completed we held “Share Shops” and then adjourned. Procession to Notre Dame des Victoires Church; beautiful, touching Slovenian Choir; Fr. Chris Gostečnik, O.F.M. concelebrated with Fr. David Stalzer; Floral Bouquet to Blessed Mother’s altar; Readings by President Tory and Vida Kumse in Slovenian; Peace Offering by National Officers to entire congregation as requested by the Celebrant, Fr. Chris; Installation Banquet — delicious food and wine — capcity crowd; Welcome and Introductions by Barbara Chiodo; Greetings by President Tory; Greetings by Br. 13 President, Josephine Aiuto; Presentation to Treasurer, Sylvia Vukodinovich who served 12 years on the Board; presentation to Jonita Ruth for recruiting 66 members in four year Membership Campaign; gifts will be forthcoming to other National Officers who were not present; On behalf of the National Board, Vice President Beverly Jackson presented President Tory a San Francisco cable car music box; President Tory introduced the newly elected National Officers followed by the Installation. Three bouquets of roses were given to Barbara, Beverly and Michele from the National Board in appreciation for a wonderful well organized Convention; Thank you from Barbara and Beverly; the 22nd National Convention of the S.W.U. adjourned. A sing-a-long led by Frank Shepel followed and accordian music by Bob Mueller of Ohio concluded the festivities. My best wishes and prayerful congratulations to our newly elected National Officers; the challenges are great but attainable through cooperation, determination and enthusiasm. This desire to serve — and the spirit of selfless dedication to a cause is the fundamental approach to all true leadership. To our outgoing National Officers, thank you for the dedication, time and talents given to this great organization, the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. May it continue to flourish into the 21st Century! And to all of our membership in every Region, it was indeed an honor and privilege serving you. May God Love You! Victoria “Tory" Bobence “WE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME AND HOPE YOU DID, TOO!” Officers of Br. 13, San Francisco, California, outdid themselves in every possible way to make our 22nd National Convention a grand success. One of the first photos to come in after the convention is this one from Mary Staut, delegate from Br. 102, Willard, WI whose husband, Vitko was a diligent photographer, and sent us a whole chronical of pictures that we’ll be using in future issues. We invite all photos and stories pertaining to the convention - thank you for helping us make the convention a pictoral memory! On this photo taken at the Slovenian Hall in SF on the concluding day, May 21st, 1995 are, from left to right: Michelle Twers, Chairman Barbara Chiodo, Beverly Jackson, Jo Aiuto, Virginia Sustarich and Ceta Zagar. Their “western” hospitality will never be forgotten! MARIE DYE WINS SLOVENIAN DOLL COUPLE! Our first SWU Scholarship Winner (in 1949) won the Heritage Dolls given out at the Convention! It was a nice surprise for all of us! Read Some of Marie Bombach Dye’s comments below. This weekend I received the best gift I had ever been fortunate enough to get! The DOLLS I won at the Convention are so precious! I just keep staring at them - wondering how could I be so lucky - since I am usually NOT a winner of anything! (Not one to buy tickets often, either, or to “gamble”!) When our lodge secretary telephoned me that I was the lucky winner of the two Slovenian dolls, I could hardly believe it! Since I “retired” some years ago, I started collecting dolls and unusual stuffed animals. All the time I was wondering how I could get a doll dressed in the Slovenian costume. Now I know that I have waited for a reason, and I am very grateful. God bless you all. Marie FIRST THOUGHTS IN REMEMBRANCE! NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Yes, I am writing this on the beach at Waikiki...! Barbara and I are having a wonderful time and unwinding from the National Convention. It was a wonderful, exciting and “busy” week. I saw so many wonderful friends again and to say the tours were magnificent is an understatement. And, God truly blessed us with beautiful weather. Our meetings brought forth new, vibrant and enthusiastic officers and a gracious thank you to the past officers. I personally want to thank everyone in San Francisco who worked so hard at the Slovenian Hall, my loved “strudel ladies”, our magnificent Choir, delightful Diana Fir and most of all, my wonderful sister, Barbara Chiodo. Four years of planning and working very hard couldn’t have been any better. To our new friends, can’t wait to get together in four years and to my “old” friends it was a joy being together again. Thank you Bob Mueller, you saved the day with your terrific button box, and Michelle, what can I say that everyone has not said already... thank you!! In the tribute to Br. 13, a couple of names were accidently omitted. My apology to Betty Doberty and others who were overlooked but surely not forgotten. Betty worked so many years for our branch and was Mother of the Year and an officer. God bless and Hvala. BEVERLY JACKSON WELCOME 10VENSKE ŽE« ZVEZE V MERK 1995 CONVENTION! MINUTES OF THE MEETING SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA BOARD OF DIRECTORS March 20-21-22, 1995, Home Office, Joliet, IL Meeting was opened on Monday, March 20, 1995 with welcome and inspirational prayer by the President. The roll call of officers was taken. Board members present: President, Victoria Bobence, Vice President, Beverly Jackson, Secretary, Olga Ancel, Auditor II, Cirila Kermavner, Auditor III, Josephine Lustik; National Officers present: Director of Women’s Activities Frances Morison, Director of Scholarship Fund, Carita Girman, Director of Culture and Heritage Activities, Irene Odorizzi, Editor of ZARJA, Corinne Leskovar. Absent due to illness and excused were Treasurer, Sylvia Vukodinovich and Auditor I, Marion Marolt. Reading of the Minutes of the previous meeting was dispensed; moved, seconded and carried. Minutes of this meeting were first taken by Irene Odorizzi, later by Corinne Leskovar. President especially welcomed Scholarship Fund Director Carita Girman who was present for today’s meeting. Her recent resignation was tabled and the Board extended their best wishes to Carita with hopes she would be willing to continue in this capacity for the fuutre. Correspondence: Resignation was received from Hermine Dicke who served as the editor of Pots and Pans for 32 years and also as the former Scholarship Fund Director. Upon hearing of Mrs. Dicke’s intentions, the Board members expressed their regrets and extended many thanks to Hermine for her exemplary and loyal service. On Tuesday, the officers were happy to have a visit at the Home Office by Hermine and Bob Dicke, accompanied by their daughter, Kathy Gorton. Evelyn Majercik, State President of Ohio-Michigan also informed the Board by letter that her attendance at the forthcoming National Convention would be based on the health of her husband. Greetings were received from Mary Marolt, former National Treasurer, now retired and living in Florida. President of Br. 43, Josephine Janezic requested a Board member to attend the 65th Anniversary celebration and Regional Convention of Wisconsin on Sept. 17, 1995 in Milwaukee. Correspondence was accepted as read. Officers’ Reports: PRESIDENT’S REPORT National Officers of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America: It is a pleasure to meet with you once again. The three days we are gathered together will require a great deal of serious deliberations and cooperation. Even though we don’t necessarily agree on every proposal presented to us, we know it is our responsibility to evaluate and act accordingly in the decision making process. At all times we must ask ourselves, “Is this in the best interests of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America?” Keeping in touch with our membership and branch officers is time consuming but rewarding since these contacts via telephone or letter has helped “bridge the gap” so to speak, as travel has been minimal. During the past year the invitations to branch meetings and/or celebrations have been enjoyable. The hospitality and sense of belonging are remarkable traits passed on to us by our Slovenian ancestry. It was a honor to be invited to four Regional Conventions in 1994, however, due to an austere budget the Minnesota and Ohio-Michigan Regional Conventions were the only ones your president attended. Since Michigan hosted the SWU Convention for the first time, it was especially important to attend. The reception by host Branch 105, Detroit was overwhelming; a heartwarming experience which will not be soon forgotten. We thank Evelyn Majercik, Regional President of Ohio-Michigan for her organizational skills which made this all possible. Minnesota’s State Convention was also a huge success. Though host Branch 56, Hibbing has a smaller group with many elderly members, they proved that it can be done. We applaud Minnesota State President, Jean Korsman for conducting an orderly and stimulating meeting. At every meeting that your president attended, an informative message relating to all aspects of the Slovenian Women’s Union was presented. We have encountered numerous problems among our branches which we attempted to resolve. It is very difficult working among clashing personalities and hopefully we have a brighter outlook in most areas as a result of our perseverance. Delinquent dues has been a problem among a few branches which cannot be tolerated. The By-laws define these directives very clearly; we can no longer make exceptions to the rule which ultimately creates a financial burden on our organization. To all of our Board members who contribute their time and talent toward the growth and stability of the S.W.U., a sincere thank you! As we prepare for the 22nd Quadrennial S.W.U. National Convention may this great organization continue to be a source of inspiration and resourcefulness for many years into the future. Victoria “Tory” Bobence VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT Greetings, National Officers of the S.W.U. Board of Directors, I come again with greetings and best wishes from the West Coast. The main thrust of my work during the past year has been organizing the Host Committee for the 1995 National Convention. As all of you know this is a tremendous job. I am most grateful for the wonderful response I have received, not only from the officers and members of Branch 13 in San Francisco, but from the ladies of Branch 79 in Enumclaw, Washington who have offered to help at the convention. We are now in the process of inviting local and state dignitaries to welcome our members to San Francisco and California. We are all overwhelmed by the response from the branches of S.W.U. to the National Convention. We are hoping everyone will come to the convention with enthusiasm, new ideas for the future and the zest to bring our organization to its full potential. Because this is the first time the Golden West has ever hosted a National Convention, we would like this convention to be ‘a new beginning’ for the Slovenian Women’s Union and that all of the members will go back home with the energy to build their branches with more members and a renewed pride in our organization. With the closure of Slovenian National Churches in the United States, preserving our Heritage is more important than ever and more of a responsibility of longtime organizations like the Slovenian Women’s Union. My commitment to my Slovenian Heritage is strong and heartfelt. I have worked closely with Heritage Chairman Irene Odorizzi and again have made two authentic Slovenian dolls to be raffled at the National Convention, with the proceeds going to the Heritage Fund. In closing I pray for a successful Board of Director’s Meeting, and hope our work is productive and will lead to one of the most successful National Convention in our history. It is up to each one of us to share in the responsibility of making the Slovenian Women’s Union one of the most important organizations in the United States which promotes Pride in Slovenian Heritage, Family and love of God. Beverly Jackson SECRETARY’S REPORT Secretary’s Financial Review: The Reports given by the Secretary on the financial standing of the SWU, the Heritage Fund and Pots and Pans Cookbook Fund were discussed. Particular attention was given to better means of collecting members’ assessments and how branch donations can be standardized. The Secretary also informed the Board of a new branch merger, stating that members from branch 17 have now transferred to 12. Dober Dan and Dobrodošli! to our annual important meeting! Finances — As a result of two fortunate circumstances, we realized a gain of $6,483 for the year 1994. During the year we had one less issue of ZARJA, thus reducing expenditures approximately $5,000 and secondly, death benefits paid of $15,800 were the lowest in ten years. (During the last ten years the average paid was $20,400.) Due to our limited working capital, I recommend that in 1995 we again have only eight issues of the ZARJA, since a reduction in expenses is essential. Interest earned in 1994 — $46,314 was $4,200 less than in 1993, continuing the downward trend of previous years. In order to meet current obligations we combined our two Investments accounts (with the approval of the president and treasurer). In so doing all interest is now automatically transferred to our checking account. Also of great importance in providing working cash, I plead with all the secretaries to transmit their assessments on a timely basis as specified in the bylaws. It must be mentioned again, the Special Assessment approved at the 1991 Convention has been most advantageous in our operations. In 1994 this amounted to $5,434 and since 1991 we received a total of $18,501. I believe if we follow my earlier proposal, there is no need to raise any assessments. Any increase at this time will only result in a further reduction of membership. Membership — Two years ago I presented the attached report at the Board meeting and I also mailed copies to all branch secretaries, president and national officers, but I must have been preaching to the “choir”. To update the report, in the last two years we have lost another 281 members, of which 176 were lost in 1994. Our current membership of 5,565 is the lowest in the last 60 years. Since reaching our peak of 13,300 members in 1955, we have lost 7,700 members. In the last 15 years alone we lost 3,200 members of which 1,065 was in the year following our assessment increase in 1979. Continued losses are adversely affecting our income and related activities. Comparing membership change by locality, Ohio has propor-tionaltely lost more members than any other area. Comparative statistics show the following membership: All Year OH IL MN Other Total 1955 4486 2484 1728 4605 13303 1986 2222 1457 928 1663 6270 1990 1886 1448 872 1918 6124 Decrease 1994 1563 1415 779 1808 5565 94 vs 55 2923 1069 949 2797 7738 % Decrease 65.2 43.0 54.9 60.7 58.2 What can be done to reverse this trend? It must be obvious to each one of us that if the SWU is to continue, we must recruit more aggressively. Only by planning and sheer hard work will this be accomplished. To begin with, we must make and keep the SWU attractive and appealing to the young. Personal contact is still the best way of recruiting; that’s how our grandmothers did it when our branches wer organized. If recruiting members is not the answer, how about increased subscriptions to the ZARJA. We keep hearing about people who love to read the ZARJA, but are not members. Since the Independence of Slovenia, more of our younger people are showing an interest in the Homeland. Can we sell them a subscription? Maybe adding an additional page or two about regions or cities in Slovenia would promote sales. What are your ideas or suggestions? Let’s hear from you. Branch Officers/Mergers — Another one of my recommendations of two years ago needs immediate action. Some procedures must be adopted to authorize the Board of Directors to take punitive action against any members for nonfeasance in office. We now have three instances where duties are not being performed. We should also add to our present Bylaws — under duties of officers (page 47) — a requirement “upon conclusion of an officer’s term,” she must turn-over and deliver to her successor all moneys, records and official papers in her possession. As of December 31, 1994, branch 17 of West Allis, WI was merged with branch 12, 2 members requested transfer to branch 43 and 8 wanted Direct Billing. Status of branch 45 of Portland, OR has not been resolved at this time. Heritage Museum - During the year 1994 we had three special events that brought 263 visitors to the Museum. In August we arranged a special display to coincide with the KSKJ 100th anniversary. During their convention, 111 delegates and guests visited the Museum and we realized $577 in Sales. The Chicago Street dedication on June 10 brought us 52 guests and in August a bus tour of 40 people from Indianapolis, Indiana made arrangements to visit the Museum on a Sunday afternoon. Other visitors during the year amounted to 32, giving us a total of 235 visitors for the year. Our volunteers are to be commended for their dedication and concern for which we are most grateful. General Comments — The “downtown improvement extension" was completed and dedication of “Slovenian Row” was held in front of our office on June 10th. Through this program the Slovenian Women’s Union has new sidewalks on three sides of the office, the basements under the sidewalks were filled and new walls were poured under both ends of the building. The front supports that were already crumbling and needed repair. Now it’s greatly improved with no expense to the organization. I do look forward to a successful meeting and convention. MEMBERSHIP As of December 31,1992 At your next meeting, look around at the women who are there. Are there new, younger members in your Branch, who are prepared to carry on your work? I prepared a membership chart and statistics on Junior members that shows we have a serious problem. We reached a peak of 13,150 members in 1954, and now have declined to a low of 5,846, which includes 711 Juniors. During our peak period most of our members were in their 20s and 30s. Now these same members are in their 70s and 80s, in fact 35% of our membership is in the age group of 70 to 85. (54% of our membership are 65 and older) Projecting this trend, where will be in the year 2005 - ten years from now? The membership chart also shows that our Junior membership is also declining. In recent years we have enrolled an average of 54 Juniors a year. However, at age 18, when these Juniors should be transferred to the Adult Department, 55% are cancelled. If we don’t want to be “history” in 10 or 20 years, we must make a vigorous effort to increase membership. There is no magic. It takes hard work, perseverance and tenacity. And, most important, it takes YOU. FINANCIAL REPORT FINANČNO POROČILO January 1 to December 31, 1994 Income-Dohodki: Assessments ............................... $56,112.30 Special Assessment........................... 5,434.00 $61 Interest from investments .............................. 46 Interest from checking.................................... Rental....................................................4 Gain on investment sales................................. 5 Expenses-Stroski: Death Claims (120) .................................. $15, Salaries .............................................. 21. Administrative, travel of officers ..................... 7, ZARJA-THE DAWN Printing ................... $35,220.00 Less: Donations................. 630.40 $34,589.60 Postage .................................. 5,573.92 $40, FICA-Social Security ................................... 1, Unemployment tax ......................................... Real estate tax......................................... 1, Department of Insurance .................................. Electricity, gas, water .................................2, ,546.30 ,195.30 118.70 ,550.00 ,190.76 117,601.06 800.00 970.00 564.43 Advertising, printing, stationery Postage and telephone ...................... Depreciation-Rent .......................... Insurance and officers bonding.............. Maintenance ................................ Investment and bank service charges ........ Computer service-state annual reports ...... Secy., campaign, junior and 50-yr awards. Memoriams and get-wells..................... Donation-Bishop Baraga Association ......... Advertising (incl. Convention ad) .......... Miscellaneous .............................. ,163.52 ,680.68 302.07 ,796.84 125.00 .582.55 .857.50 ,729.76 .900.00 ,531.00 081.74 204.81 350.00 862.30 348.66 100.00 150.00 17.00 111,117.86 Gain for Year ..................................................... $ 6,483.20 Balance December 31, 1993 .......................................... 819,332.17 Balance December 31, 1994 .......................................... 825,815.37 Checking account................................................... $ 2,384.49 Investments in bonds and CDs........................................ 767,837.22 Furniture and fixtures................................................ 1,158.47 Real estate ......................................................... 53,069.69 Song books and Slovenia to America.................................... 1,365.50 Total Assets ...................................................... $825,815.37 POTS and PANS - CONVENTION FUND Report of Income and Disbursements January 1 to December 31, 1994 Balance January 1, 1994 .......................................... $ 8,780.27 Income: Sales cookbooks ......................................... $8,910.00 Interest earned............................................. 287.55 9,197.55 $17,977.82 Disbursements: Shipping costs............................................. $154.85 Bank Service charges ......................................... 4.50 159.35 Balance December 31, 1994 .......................................... $17,818.47 MEMO: Due on books shipped on consignments ....................... $ 5,353.00 (Accounts receivable) HERITAGE MUSEUM FINANCIAL REPORT - Year of 1994 Balance January 1, 1994 ............................................... $4,266.68 INCOME Memoriams: Jennie Gerk (47) Garfield Hts., OH from daughters Olga Dorchak and Elsie Spellacy ................................ $100.00 Evelyn Majercik .................................. 5.00 $105.00 Albina Grimsch, Kathy Mahar, Mary Mervar and Anna Vercelli Officers and members No. 13, San Francisco, CA ......................................... 40.00 Robert Holmes, past museum Curator $10.00 Milt Johnson, Alexandria, VA........................ 10.00 Joe Kunstek, Joliet, IL ............................. 5.00 Mother of Shirley Szabiscan of Bradenton, FL..................................... 5,00 Ken and Irene Odorizzi..................................... 30.00 Mary Haggerty, Emma Nosse, Kathryn Pavnica, Helen Skrinar and Mary Spelich Officers and members no. 20, Joliet, IL 25.00 Robert Musil from wife Angela (73) Warrensville Hts., OH...................................... 25.00 Tony Mersnik from parents Anthony and Theresa Mershnik (17) West" Allis, WI............... 10.00 Antonia Dolinar (47) Garfield Hts., OH Evelyn Majercik ............................................ 5.00 240.00 Donations: Minnesota State Convention .................................. $110.35 KSKJ-Camiolian Slovenian Catholic Union ..................... 100.00 No. 47, Garfield Hts., OH ...................................... 50.00 No. 33, Duluth, MN.............................................. 27.80 No. 55, Girard, OH.............................................. 25.00 St. Francis de Sales No. 29, KSKJ .............................. 25.00 Cynthia Jensen, Corpus Christi, TX ............................. 10.00 No. 103, Washington, D.C........................................ 10.00 368.15 Sales: Slovenia blinking flag pins ................................ $1,500.00 Ironworld in Chisholm, MN...................................... 766.93 Visitors from KSKJ Convention ................................. 577.00 Doll Chances ....................................... $504.00 Less chance printing .............................. 170.00 334.00 Misc.: Slovenia GREETINGS and ATLAS, language tapes, tote bags, cards, aprons, bumber stickers, cassettes, Dictionaries, mugs............. 1,547.15 4,725.08 Checking account interest...................................... $58.39 5,391.62 EXPENSES Memberships: Illinois Heritage Museum-2 years .................... $55.00 Joliet Junior college show............................ 50.00 Illinois Historical Soceity .......................... 30.00 I&M Canal Corridor ................................... 25.00 Polka Hall of Fame ................................... 13.00 $9,658.30 172.00 Director Irene Odorizzi expenses .......................... 275.51 Illinois Ethnic Days in Chicago, IL........................ 155.50 Chicago Street banner (1/2)................................ 310.88 St. Joseph playground plaque ................... 428.20 Less donation................................. 300.00 128.20 Window display needs........................................ 92.22 Plaque engraving ........................................... 26.40 Phone, printing and shipping costs ........................ 220.48 Office needs--ribbon, film, repairs, etc.....................97.18 Open House visitors treats ................................. 60.44 Easter Tour of Landmark Churches ............................60.00 Tee and sweat shirts .................................... 1,516.00 Tote bags.................................................. 189.60 Aprons..................................................... 395.00 Bumper stickers............................................ 162.00 Slovenia flags ............................................ 184.50 Easter cards................................................ 61.20 Mugs....................................................... 319.04 Slovenia blinking flag pins ............................. 1,379.00 Slovenian-English dictionaries ............................ 542.80 Slovenia ATLAS .......................................... 1,120.00 Learning Slovenian tapes................................... 291.00 Musical tapes from MN ...................................... 20.00 ZARJA Project book and cassette ............................ 24.95 7,804.80 Balance December 31, 1994 .......................................... $1,853.50 Money Market January 1, 1994 ....................................... $7,058.06 Interest earned........................................................ 182.09 $7,240.15 Total net worth December 31, 1994 .................................. $9,093.65 Olga Ancel, Nat'l Secretary AUDITING COMMITTEE’S REPORT On March 23, 1995, the Auditing Committee reviewed the records of the National Secretary, Treasurer, the ZARJA Fund, Scholarship Fund, Heritage Fund and the investment accounts at the First Midwest Bank in Joliet, IL and found that all the records of transactions are in good order. ■"hank, you to all the officers for their co-operation. Cirila Kermavner, 2nd auditor Josephine Lustik, 3rd auditor Fran Morison, in absence of first auditor, Marion Marolt I AUDITOR’S REPORT Best wishes to all assembled today for the annual S.W.U. meeting. It is with great regret that I am unable to attend this years’ meeting. My doctors have advised me against extended travel at this time. I am confident that the decisions reached at the meeting will benefit the entire organization, and that the members best interests shall be realized, as they have always been in the past. Medical complications limited my ability to participate at my lodge's events, but I have been given an encouraging diagnosis for the coming year. I would like to thank the officers and members of Branch 17 for all of their cooperation and support they provided during my terms of office. It has been my pleasure to serve on their behalf. I’m certain that in our new capacity with Branch 12, we shall also share in many more successful years. It has been a great honor for me to be a national officer with the Slovenian Women’s Union. The lasting friendships I have made my life unique. Thank you very much for your kindness. My association with the S.W.U. has been a marvelous experience, and I shall always continue to actively support and promtoe the Slovenian Women’s Union. Fraternally, Marion M. Marolt III AUDITOR’S REPORT Today I’m using again an old Slovenian greeting: “Bohdaj”, I think it is proper to start with this greeting, as we need him to stand beside us at these meetings, just before our 22nd SWU Convention. Madam President, and officers of the National Board. Last year started bad. Some of the officers at the branch were sick, some could not attend the meetings, and of course, I could not sit alone at the head table and be 4 persons in one. Second half we started to see the light thru the tunnel actually at the end of the tunnel. Last quarter of the 1994 year and at the beginning of this year we got some new members and new young president Fran Gazvoda. Things started to move. We have monthly and sometimes even bimonthly meetings. The members are starting to come to the meetings and also particiapte. Fran and Leslie come up with wonderful ideas. Discussions are going on about everything and anything, but somehow it always boils down to keep our heritage alive. Thru heritage comes knowledge of the country we come from, and also love for the country - America we live now. Somehow those two things usually go hand in hand. SWU should concentrate, and I mean, truly concentrate on the meaning of their heritage. SWU heritage should be a melting pot for our younger women and children, to give them that incentive and pride, they’ll be happy to work with us. As for our branch we are sprouting, hopefully we will grow into a sturdy branch, of our beautiful tree of SWU. First time, we had Ohio-Michigan Convention in Detroit. President of branch 105, Kathleen Emerson and her crew made an exceptional day for us. Ohio-Michigan President Evelyn Majer-cik made it possible for the Ohio group to meet, go to Detroit. There were 2 buses of happy ladies. To top all this, we also have the pleasure of seeing our National President, Tory Bobence at the Convention. Branch 25 has two wonderful, knowledgeable, young delegates as our representatives at the 22nd Convention. Hopefully this step in the preparation for the 22nd Convention at these meetings will be a huge success, and bring us into an excellent realization of our goals. With God’s blessings, everything is possible. Sincerely, Cirila Kermavner SCHOLARSHIP FUND DIRECTOR’S REPORT Discussion: Ways to establish fund raising for Scholarships: “Memorials” in memory of departed family members may be named specifically; also, “Living Scholarships” in tribute to officers and members may be another way to increase interest in the fund. Mrs. Girman announced a recent $1,000 Scholarship donation from the family of member, Frances Barman who was selected as Mother of the Year by her sister-members of Br. 25, Cleveland, Ohio this year. The Barman family responded in gratitude by donating this generous amount in their mother’s name. The Scholarship Committee will arrange for the Frances Baiman Scholarship grant in 1996. Slovenian langauge studies in Slovenia through scholarships offered by the Republic of Slovenia may be an opportunity for SWU members. “Loan Program” for graduate students is another idea to pursue. WOMEN’S ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR’S REPORT We are all looking forward to our 22nd National Convention in San Francisco with great anticipation. Our Convention affords us the opportunity to reintroduce ourselves, exchange experiences and new ideas. Hopefully, all suggestions will be well received and discussed thoroughly before implementation with all criticisms being of a constructive and fruitful nature. While visiting with various members attending our State Convention, I found that they too, as we, are concerned with our declining membership. Their concerns, of course, are how to entice younger members to increase our membership roles. They seem to agree that family participation is the only viable solution for our survival. The strength of the Slovenian heritage rests in the strength of our family life. Let us encourage family participation in our events by using ourselves as an example. The future and strength of our organization lies in the whole family developing an appreciation for our Slovenian heritage. Caring for one another should be a prime concern for each of us also. At our State Convention, I introduced the possibility of having a prayer tree for those members who become ill: an assigned individual would contact other members to each pray a decade of the Rosary on a specific assigned day. Each participant would say all the prayers pertaining to their decade. Praying for a member is one of the greatest things we can do for one another. As we ask Mary to intercede, our prayers will not only help our ill member, they will also act to strengthen our friendship and our bonds with one another. Let us pray for a successful Convention. We are so grateful for all the members of our organization whose lives have touched our own. Let our faith and Slovenian traditions continue to enliven the hearts of our descendants. Frances Morison YOUTH ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR’S REPORT I wish to extend my best wishes for a successful annual board meeting of the Slovenian Women’s Union. I regret that I cannot be with you during this exciting meeting as you look forward to the upcoming National Convention in San Francisco. I am confident that your selection of a new Youth Director will open doors to new beginnings for activities available to our young people. Some of my attempts on a national level, such as “My Special Slovenian Christmas Experience” contests, outlines of ideas for branch program activities and the “Pen Pal Exchange” brought in some positive responses from our young people. It was really wonderful to see how parents were encouraging their children to go beyond their daily family and school activities and do something a bit different. We still need an abundance of support from our branch members to make the future attempts successful. The young people in my home branch have responded favorably to being invited to participate in our annual Mother’s Day program through Slovenian poetry readings, songs and other activities. Receiving prizes with a Slovenian theme, or just plain fun prizes have enhanced our parties. I want to especially thank the home office for their efficiency in providing us with these little treasures of Slovenian heritage. Our Editor has done a fine job in recognizing some of our young achievers in ZARJA. It is always interesting to hear good news about SWU branch, school and community achievements by our young people of Slovenian heritage. As the close of the school year draws near and we anticipate graduations and year end awards, I encourage our branch members to send news about the youth in their branch. Sometimes even the smallest accomplishments give a healthy boost to a young person’s self esteem. I would like to thank everyone who has supported and contributed to the efforts of attracting our young people to stay involved and interested in our Slovenian heritage by providing educational and fun family activities at local branch meetings. Bernadette Kovacic Fitzsimmons CULTURE & HERITAGE DIRECTOR’S REPORT One of the highlights of this year’s work has been the establishment of Branch 108 in Virginia Beach with Alan “Bo” Boštjančič and his wife Gigi. The group is off to a flying start and have held many meetings which also include the junior members. Details of the formation of the branch have been published in the ZARJA along with a photo in March '95. National Vice President, Beverly Jackson’s nimble fingers were busy once again sewing two Slovenian dolls which will be raffled to benefit the Heritage Fund at the convention in San Francisco after the banquet. Beverly also supplied a color slide of the dolls which 1 used to make a color flyer. This flyer was sent along with the raffle tickets to all branches by National Secretary, Olga Ancel. Thanks Beverly for initiating the idea and bringing it to fruition and to Olga for participation in the raffle. Thanks as well to all the officers and members who sold tickets or purchased them. Your support is appreciated. The SWU Brochure explaining our organization which 1 started in 1994, was designed and printed through Editor, Corinne Leskovar and sent out to each member with her lovely ZARJA notecards. The ritual book, which was edited by the Board in March 1994, will be printed next. My communication with Mary Pavlic of Branch 30, led me to realize that members who have direct billing should receive some kind of recognition in the ZARJA. Since they live in all parts of the U.S. and don’t have direct contact with branch activities there may be a tendency for these members who lack representation in a branch column. I asked Mary Pavlic if she would be interested in contacting members of Branch 30 and writing their news in a monthly column. She accepted and after my first two articles, she continued the interesting column. Locating a part-time curator for the Museum has been a hopeless task. If any member can recommend a qualified individual willing to work as a part-time curator, because that is all we can afford, I would be happy to follow up on the recommendation. In regards to developing our Museum, I checked with the company that did the excellent display at the Interpretative Center in Chisholm. They are willing to undertake the project, however, this may be a costly venture and at the present the Heritage Fund cannot support this venture. Ways of achieving a fully developed museum and the funds needed for this project must be considered by the Board. The coloring book which was put on hold for awhile has been rekindled and I hope to have it ready by Convention time. The Board assigned $500.00 for printing of this book, a few years ago. Notecards, featuring Slovenian recipes, has been another project which I have worked on with artist, Karen Dillon of #103. Hopefully, this project will be complete and ready for sale by convention time as well. A Thanksgiving cruise was planned for members and friends. After planning the cruise, sending out letters and color flyers, as well as an advertisement for ZARJA, it was disappointing to receive any response to this “holiday in the sunshine of the Caribbean.” Answering correspondence and phone calls from genealogists has been an interesting task. Information which they request is xeroxed and sent out. Hopefully, my efforts will help some of these individuals trace their Slovenian ancestors in the old country. My features in the ZARJA for 1994, have been varied. Coming in contact with some fine poets initiated the idea for a POETRY COLUMN. There have been some very fine pieces of poetry printed thus far and I hope we will discover many more poets from our ranks in the future. The FIRST LADY column was started to obtain and document information about our founder, Marie Prisland. Many family members have contributed information as well as members of the SWU. Hermine Dicke’s remembrances were printed under the NEXT GENERATION article. I still have additional information which must be written up in further FIRST LADY articles but request many other little anecdotes etc. of members recalling our founder. LOOKING BACK TO THE FUTURE which relates the history of the SWU Branches is in its fourth year. There are still additional branches which contributed information that must be featured. I would recommend that those branches not yet highlighted in a ZARJA article, send me an update of activities, officers etc. for the last four years. Many thanks to Editor, Corinne Leskovar, for supplying photos for the histories of the formative years from her early ZARJAs and to all the branch historians that collected data to send me. Heritage News and Views continues each month as well with an assortment of information. It seems that our members read this section and respond to the various offers/sales advertised in this column. The sale of the Antique Slovenian Notecards and Postcards has been progressing well. Many thanks to Mary Pavlic for making these cards available to Heritage and to Matilda Ausich for the hours that she spent in packaging them so beautifully. The sale of these notecards w/envelopes and the postcards will benefit the Heritage Fund. Next to writing the ZARJA columns, many of my working hours are spent answering correspondence. This year I have written 135 letters in regard to Heritage or the Slovenian Women’s Union. I have also spoken with Jill Augustine, Pres, of Branch 103, and she assures me that the branch will sponsor the Regional Convention for Pennsylvania-New York, Washington-Virginia in Fall of 1995. The Museum store continues to sell books, tapes, tee shirts, aprons, caps, etc. and is managed by Jonita Ruth. The Museum volunteers continue to provide services at the Museum and also in displaying our Slovene artifacts at exhibits. These are both very important duties in regards to our Slovene Heritage. The volunteers are: Molly Gregorich, Ann Dragovan, Mildred Pucel, Helen Plut, Margaret Dusa, Olga Ancel and Ed Ancel for special projects. The Heritage donations this year are itemized in the Heritage Financial Statement prepared by National Secretary, Olga Ancel, and submitted with this report. We are very appreciative to all donors and encourage them to continue supporting our Heritage Fund and Museum. Commendations to all branches that present heritage activities in their locale. Continue to do so and keep our Slovenian traditions a vital aspect in the life of the third and fourth generations of American-Slo venes. Irene M. Odorizzi ZARJA EDITOR’S REPORT My sincere greetings to you all. It is an exciting time for us - this month of March just before our 22nd National Convention this May. In the excitement, we are facing the responsibility we hold as officers and must make a concentrated effort to do whatever is necessary to prepare us for this meaningful Convention. First, we must plan our committees, procedures, agendas and all that is necessary to make the convention run smoothly within the allotted time. Second, we are expected to prepare the By-law proposals for further study by the delegates. This entails research and planning, so we will anticipate all the changes that could or should be made for our operation the next four years. Third, we each have to face our commitment to this organization and examine the duties of the offices we have held, whether or not it was done to our satisfaction and what more could be proposed for ther future. Are there ideas that can be discussed at this meeting to restructure our financial matters for at least the next five years. What about ZARJA in the future? Can we manage it and how? These are serious financial questions and I know you, as well as I, have been contemplating them. We certainly do have a lot to discuss and I’m sure that with teamwork it can be done. The year of 1994 was extremely busy for the publication as usual. We did produce 8 issues of ZARJA, the October issue was eliminated by agreement with the Executive Committee. I find that all the combined issues, for two months together, are larger than the usual monthly elections of 32 pages and it is somewhat more difficult to maintain a sense of timeliness due to accumulation of material and delay of publication. Otherwise, we had no changes in ZARJA’s production or format. In order to ease the financial burden which is our organization’s main concern all the time, I proposed another fundraising project for ZARJA at the last yearly meeting of this Board and it was carried out, actually in 1995, not in 1994 as originally planned. The delay was fortuitous, I believe, because we have received a far better return on this fund-raiser than possible if it were too close to the previous one, the 1993 Anniversary Calendars. Therefore, the Note-card fund-raising project was finalized in 1995 and because it is only two months since completed, I do not have as yet all the financial income. Hopefully we will do better financially because of this delay into the new year. Your authority for the project to try to raise funds was accomplished in two specific projects, the Anniversary calendars in 1993 and the Note Cards in 1994(95). Not to bore you with many descriptions of the work, worry and struggle each of these projects brought on, I would say that much of the extra work is forgotten and that we learned a lot from them. We learned to expect far less than anticipated in the number of returns. Both the fund-raising ideas were concentrated on Slovenian art, following the theme of Slovenian heritage, so that as gifts they were meaningful and beautifully presented. Both elicited a warm response from those who did give donations. But, the fact is that there were not as many responses as we hoped - the numbers were not there. The number of calendars sent was 5350, returns were 18%, that is, under 1000 donation-returns. The number of Note-cards sent was 5300, returns are about 17%, again with about 1000 donation-returns. It should be noted, with our thanks, that the artists for both fund-raising efforts did not request nor were given any payment for their work. It was their donation as members of our Slovenian Women’s Union. The cost of the new Brochure has been added to our fund-rais-ing expense because it was agreed that circulating them in this way to each individual member seemed a far better idea than distributing them at meetings. Greater proceeds could be realized - if we had a better response from the members. It really is most disturbing that only about 1000 of our 5300 adult members feel inclined to donate to something that the members say they want to continue, proven by the comments, in fact, some comments plead that ZARJA never be eliminated. Therefore, I am mystified and a little disappointed, but the lesson, I believe, is well worth the effort, because we are learning a fact through this exercise and that is, we will be forced to budget our expense and ZARJA costs into our assessment income and free these monumental worries that the organization has had to face for so many years. This will end the need for sporadic fundraising as it has been done in the past. Before closing my report, I wish to specifically thank a number of members who have been more cooperative than ever could be expected in this last year. They are Jo Lustik, our National Officer who has sent in well over $200 in ads in 1994. She did this completely on her own, as a gesture of loyalty. I also wish to thank the members of Branches 2, 16 and 20 who came to our aid this last January-February and helped to package and stuff all the 5300 mailing envelopes, and prepare everything for distribution. They devoted many hours to the work. One member, Ann Sam of Br. 2, even did work at home, which saved a lot of our time later on. This was work of love and dedication. I know that if anyone appreciates the effort of the project, these members do. Besides the work, all of them also responded with donations. Indeed, sincere thanks goes to them. To all those who contribute their messages for print in ZARJ A, my sincere thanks and encouragement that they will continue. The news and information is well presented and all our correspondents are great. Also, appreciation to our advertisers who loyally remain with us year after year. I would hope that more could be found to take advertising space on a yearly basis in our ZARJA. In the past year, the Convention in San Francisco has given us an opportunity to do more promotion in ZARJA for the event that is so important to the future of our organization. We are hopeful that going to San Francisco will be a turning point for us as we extend the invitation to our members and their families to join in a wonderful excursion to a major landmark-city in the U.S. while we plan the future of S.W.U. together. With the cooperation of our San Francisco “gals,” Beverly Jackson and her sister, Barbara Chiodo, everything will be super in San Francisco! I know you are aware of all the work and effort they have made to this end. My personal thanks to both Bev and Barbara for keeping ZARJA well informed and on top of the news and for their professional convention planning! Again, with thanks and best wishes, I extend to you all my fond greetings and hopes that we succeed in all we hope to achieve at this meeting. Corinne Leskovar All Reports were accepted as read on a motion, second and unanimous yea vote. Throughout the reading of Reports discussions were held by the Directors to clarify and familiarize themselves with the points brought up by each subject. Decisions arising from the discussions appear in these Minutes as they were made. Expressions of Sympathy: The President announced the recent passing of our National Officer, Romaine O’Brien Jablonski, State President of Illinois-In-diana. To her family, deepest sympathy. Condolences were offered to the Korsman family of Gilbert, Minnesota on the death of Jean Korsman’s step-daughter, Jeanne Radtke. Beverly Jackson, Na- tional Vice President and her family were offered condolences on the death of her father, Joe Chiodo. Prayers for the repose of their souls were led by the President. Reports of the State Presidents were all received by mail and were accepted, moved, seconded and unanimously approved by voice vote. These reports will be published in the next ZARJA. The President announced that a new branch of the S.W.U. was formed in 1994 in Virginia Beach, Virginia comprised of 10 new members. A very warm welcome to the new branch and its newly elected officers. It is hoped that they will be active and productive and a happy group. The Board extended its commendation to Mrs. Odorizzi for her work in promoting this new branch and encouraging Mr. Alan Boštjančič, to carry out his interest in heritage by organizing a branch of S.W.U. that he now says is “the foremost organization promoting heritage”! Proposals for By-law changes: President presented the proposals she received by mail from the memebrship; after discussion at this meeting, they are to be prepared for presentation at the forthcoming National Convention. 1) Request that the By-law 3.10 be changed to allow Social members to be elected to branch office. - Recommendation from Board in re By-law 3.10 that a branch may request a special dispensation from the Board of Directors to elect a social member to branch office if the branch is unable otherwise to fill a vacancy. 2) Request that ZARJA be issued only four or six times per year to cut costs. - Recommendation from the Board that eight issues per year might be more feasible, based on the fact that only eight issues were printed in 1994 which decreased the cost and the budget still was manageable. 3) Request that name of the organization be changed to eliminate the word Union. - Recommendation that the name change is a very serious consideration and the Board favors the traditional name and is not in favor of any immediate changes without a referendum of the membership. 4) Request that the assessment schedule be reconstructed into a “Direct Billing” form of collection. - Recommendation from the Board was favorable. The Board is interested in getting more information on how it could be done in a least costly manner, particularly to ease the burden on branch secretaries who, in some cases, are not able to collect assessments on time and secondly, to ease the burden on branches who find it difficult to find members willing to do the monthly secretarial work of filing reports, keeping financial ledgers, etc. A study will be made for the adoption of this system and computerizing the Home Office. A visit by Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, Pastor of St. Joseph’s church (across the street) and former SWU Spiritual Director was a surprise. Fr. Athanasius led a prayer for successful deliberations at this meeting and for a better world for all. Meeting was adjourned at 6 p.m. with prayer. Meeting was opened at 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday, March 21, 1995 by the President. A short prayer was offered by the Secretary: The President read the recommendations for candidates to fill vacancies in the National Board at this Convention. The names will be forwarded to the Convention Nominations Committee. 22nd National Quadrennial Convention, May 19-20-21, 1995, in San Francisco, California: The Secretary reported that to this date 34 delegates’ credential forms have been received in the Home Office. The full Convention assembly will also include 15 National Officers, total 49. The detailed schedule and information for the days of the National Convention were presented for discussion by Vice President, Beverly Jackson, co-chairman of the Convention. All arrangements were thoroughly outlined and time strictures considered so that Convention business took priority over other activities. The Chairman, Barbara Chiodo was commended on a very well-organized Convention, one that will be remembered with pride. The Board extended their gratitude to Br. 13 and all members. Meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Officers were invited to attend Br. 20’s monthly meeting and St. Joseph’s feastday party at St. Joe’s Park which was very enjoyable for all. Meeting was called to order on Wednesday, March 22, 1995 with prayer led by the President. A discussion followed on the goals and priorities of the S.W.U. that should be placed into consideration at the Convention. In order to keep the Board of Directors and National Officers of Zveza a viable group, discussion was held on 1) setting general limits for all terms of office; 2) changing from elected to appointed the positions of five National Officers. The Board was in favor of two term limits for all officers. In addition to the Board of Directors, seven in number, there are five National Officers whose terms will be limited to two four year terms each. Moved by B. Jackson, seconded and carried. The Board discussed the advisability of changing the National Offices for Directors of Women’s Activities, Youth Activities, Scholarship Fund and Culture and Heritage from elective to appointive positions. The Editor of ZARJA position will also become an appointive one. All four National Directors and the Editor of ZARJA will be appointed by the Board of Directors. State Presidents will be elected by their own jurisdictions at the state conventions as before. Moved by C. Kermavner, seconded and carried. A new assessment schedule is crucial to keep up with the expenses of operation and to put the association in compliance with the Illinois State Insurance directive that limits the percentage of funds from the General Treasury of the association that may be used for expenses. Additionally, with a Direct Billing system the assocaition will be able to organize the method of collection to achieve three important goals: 1) standardize the amount of branch dues to be paid by the member with her/his membership assessment; 2) eliminate extra fund raiser for operational expenses; 3) modernize the system and take the burden off the local branch secretaries by collecting from all members in all classes in a uniform manner and time. The Board asked that the President and Secretary secure information and bids from companies that would set up the Direct Billing procedure for the association, beginning in 1996. Article IX in the By-laws specifies the payment of assessments and the Board favors the following changes, beginning in January, 1996, based on once-a-year payments of assessment: Adult Dept. Class A: $12.00 per year, (over 75 years old $8.00 per year); Adults Dept. Class B: $15.00 per year, (over 75 years old $10.00 per year); Associate Dept., Class A: $12.00 per year; Class B. $15.00 per year; Junior Dept.: $4.00 per year; Social Dept.: $15.00 per year. From this yearly assessment collection branches will be able to receive from the Home Office a yearly stipend to cover the amount they would receive from their members via an extra collection. These assessments have the favorable backing of the Board of Directors and will be presented by the Convention By-law Committee to the general assembly. The above moved by C. Kermavner, seconded and carried. Another important factor for future solvency and insurance law compliance that must be addressed at the National Convention is the regulation concerning branch operation, that is, to hold yearly elections; and, to conduct at least five meetings per year to maintain their status in good standing. It was pointed out that in Illinois, the State in which the S.W.U. is chartered, there are only two Burial Societies in existence and no others have been allowed to incorporate, therefore, it is important that the association complies with all regulations. The Board also considered a change in By-law 3.03, with the elimination of Class A from further enrollments, retaining Class B, Junior, Associate and Social Classes. Members already enrolled in Class A will be retained as long as they are in good standing. The above moved by J. Lustik, seconded and carried. The Board agreed that for the forthcoming Convention, only three convention committees will be named, that is, Credentials, Nominations and By-laws. Moved by B. Jackson, seconded and carried. By-law 7.24, that a Spiritual Advisor for the association be eliminated is another proposal by the Board since there has not been one in effect for the past 8 years and there is no budget for maintaining one. Each branch having their own spiritual counsel makes it unnecessary to have an officer in this position. Moved by C. Kermavner, seconded and carried. In the discussion concerning the official organ, ZARJA, the Board reviewed the costs of the past year determining that printing only eight issues instead of nine in 1994 was a cost-saving measure. Motion by the Secretary that eight issues per year would be feasible in our present financial status, seconded and carried. The publication schedule suggested by the Editor is: January-February; March; April; May-June; July-August; September-October; November; December. With the advent of a new four year term, it is expected that there will be some increases in printing, approximately 10% is expected due to paper and other material costs, plus the steadily increasing postage costs which are exorbitant even at the lowest possible postal rate for our publication. The Board was hopeful that members will seriously consider soliciting advertisements and securing memorials and other types of donations to help out in the future. The Editor was very pleased to report on all the favorable comments received from the members complimenting the ZARJA for its interesting material and expressing appreciation for all of the S.W.U. heritage and Branch history articles by Mrs. Odorizzi. In summary, the Board named five priorities for the SWU to consider at this Convention and to assure us a secure future, which are: 1) To keep ZARJA as it is, with 8 issues per year, maintaining the same quality and content; 2) Do all we can to refresh the branches so that they will flourish and attract more new members; do all we can to help them increase activities in their communities; and try to maintain closer contacts between the branches and the Board members; 3) Do better marketing to increase the membership by means of printed material and other means of promotion at our disposal; 4) Secure a better financial status by involving our members in the effort to widen our membership base; 5) Develop our S.W.U. Heritage Museum to be a place of which we can be proud as the center core of our heritage activities. Lunch recesss at 1:00 p.m. Reconvene at 2:00 p.m. State Conventions: Following State Conventions were announced: Sept. 10, 1995, Minnesota, Br. 39, Biwabik hosts; Sept. 17, 1995, Wisconsin, Br. 43, Milwaukee, hosts, celebrating their 65th Anniversary. Oct. 1, 1995, Illinois-Indiana, Br. 95, South Chicago; Oct. 15, 1995, Ohio-Michigan, Br. 25, Cleveland. The Board will try to send representatives to each event - to be named after the National Convention. The Board held an extended discussion on a replacement for our Pots and Pans Editor, Hermine Dicke, to try to find someone to keep up the recipe column that is so favored in ZARJA. Hermine Dicke will bid adieu to this column in July, 1995 after over 30 years of dedicated service. The Board members will be actively seeking a replacement. Moved by J. Lustik, seconded and carried. The President led a discussion on the job descriptions of Board of Directors and National Officers. The Executive Committee arranged to meet to discuss the S.W.U. budget for 1996 and Auditing Committee arranged to meet Thursday to conduct the annual audit of S.W.U. ledgers. Meeting was adjourned at 5 p.m. with prayer led by the President and a wish to all for a safe journey home. Victoria Bobence, Corinne Leskovar President Rec. Secretary MARY FERKUL Br. 19, Eveleth, MN Our Mother of the Year Maria Mihelich Ferkul was born in Zgomi Kaselj in Slovenia. She was the second daughter of Frank and Teresa Mihelich, there were five more to follow. In 1945 when Slovenia was not very stable, father left the country for his own safety. In 1951 he was able to enter the U.S. and proceeded to send for his family. The family arrived in Eveleth in February, 1956. Maria and her two sisters started to work at the Cluett-Peabody Factory in Virginia. She worked there until her marriage to Stanley Ferkul in 1958. Stanley was also bom in Slovenia and came to U.S. in early 1950s. Maria was the first daughter in the family to get married. The wedding took place at St. Joseph’s Church in Gilbert, MN. They’ve been residents of Biwabik since the marriage and soon started to raise a family. They were blessed with four children, three sons, Albert, David, and John and a daughter, Martina. Because of proximity, they are able to visit with the three children in Minneapolis area more often. Martina has been married for almost ten years and has two children, son Joey 9 and daughter Theresa 7. With Maria’s talents of knitting, crocheting and sewing, the grandchildren are often the recipients of these projects. Other activities they enjoy together are taking walks, camping and traveling. The recipients of Maria’s talents are not only her family, she is involved in church events. She teaches religion class during school year and year round volunteers with a church ladies circle that serves at funeral lunches, help with church dinners and have been recently involved in packaging sandwiches for Special Olympics. Maria joined branch 19 in 1957 with her mother and sisters. Mother, Teresa Mihelich was the Mother of the Year in 1966. Maria has held the position of treasurer since 1981. JO ANN MALS Br. 71, Strabane, PA Jo Ann Urbančič was bom in Strabane to John and Mary Kmet Urbančič of Slovenia. Jo Ann had 3 sisters and a brother. Her mother was an early member of Br. 71 as was her sister, Caroline Massack. Jo Ann remembers her mother attending meetings. She attended grammar school in Strabane, then graduated from high school in Houston, Pa and from Penn Commercial College in Washington, PA. She worked in the office at the former R.C.A. in Canonsburg as a secretary, then at Manufacturers Light and Heat (Columbia Gas) and after rearing her children has been at J.C. Penny store. In 1961, Jo Ann and Edward Mals of Canonsburg were married. He is of Polish ancestry but enjoys Slovenian food and many activities of the community. He is now retired from Cooper Industries after 42 years as a draftsman. They have lived in Washington, PA since their marriage and are members of the Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal church in Meadowlands. They have two children, a son, Larry who lives in La-grangeville, NY and is employed by Metro-North Railroad as an electronic tehnician and a daughter, Susan, employed by Calsonic as a mechanical engineer and residing near Detroit. Both are always anxious to visit their homestead. Jo Ann says one of her most cherished memories is a 1982 visit to Slovenia and being able to see the home where her father was bom in Zagradec. She hopes to be visiting there again in the future. Her parents were a great inspiration in her life because she was taught by them to appreciate the “Slovenian” work ethnic, also faith, and caring, which have been proven as the best “ties that bind” in her life. She accepted this honor with pride and humility. CONGRATULATIONS! MARY, JOANN AND OLGA! “WOMAN OF THE YEAR” OLGA (nee Erjavec) ANCEL of Joliet, IL was chosen by the Altar & Rosary Society CCW as the St. Joseph’s Woman of the Year. She is the school board secretary, a member of the Slovenian Choir, publicity chairperson for the annual homecoming fairs, a member of the school Centennial Committee, Rosarian and Senior Parishioners member. In the American Legions Auxiliary 1080, Ancel chaired the Veterans crafts, and was president and secretary. She has also served on the SFA alumni board and was coordinator of the Gostilna in Jubilation. In the Slovenian Women’s Union she has been a charter member of the drill team, secretary of the local branch #20 and the SWU national secretary. Her parents were excellent examples of generosity and helpfulness. By the way of her six children, relatives and friends she became involved. But none of the above was possible without the support and help of her husband Ed. Both are proud of their Slovenian heritage. A Crafty Idea Like everyone else, Crafty Idea is going on vacation for the summer. If you are interested in a crochet, knit, cross-stitch, sewn pattern that you think I may have access to, please do not hesitate to write. I will appreciate a self-addressed stamped envelope with your request. Over recent months I find that the most interest is expressed in afghan patterns, both knit and crochet. Maybe you have a favorite that you would like to share. Please send it on to me. I will be looking for new, interesting patterns during the summer months. Keep yourself busy. See you in September. Evelyn A. Majercik 31 Eldred Avenue Bedford, Ohio 44146 5 - Julia Marchig (97) Michaela Zakrajšek (91) 54-yr member 42-yr member 6 - Pauline Barberich (92) 26 - Anna Stayduhar (81) 59-yr member 21-yr member 10 - Veronica Vulich (98) 27 - Frances Kucic (73) 54-yr member 46-yr member 12 - Mary Debelak (83) Genevieve Safran (81) 42-yr member 46-yr member Angela Medved (100) 47 - Katherine Gasparič (87) 54-yr member 59-yr member 17 Mary Mum (87) 52 - Mary Techar (88) 57-yr member 59-yr member 19 - Jennie Zupec (92) 55 - Mary Macek (89) 43-yr member 51 -yr member 20 - Theresa Muhich (87) 67 - Helen Snezic (77) 55-yr member 55-yr member 23 - Frances Mehle (84) 93 - Mary Koshier (90) 65-yr member 53-yr member Stephania Peshel (86) 95 - Frances Benkovich (75) 63-yr member 20-yr member 25 - Mary Mauer (99) 97 - Helen Kawula (92) 61-yr member 38-yr member Anna Mohorčič (89) 106 - Catherine Hoefler (85) 53-yr member 47-yr member We wish all the 1995 graduates much joy and success in college and beyond! The Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Committee proudly announces the three students to be awarded the 1995 SWU Scholarships. The Frances Barman Scholarship was made possible through the generosity of her loving son, Tony Colnar of Cleveland, Ohio. The other two scholarships are due to the generosity of all the many faithful contributors to the SWU Scholarship Fund. A unique situation has occurred this year. Normally, there are so many applicants that the rule limiting one scholarship per branch per year must be strictly enforced in order to more fairly distribute our scholarship funds. However, for the first time in the long history of the SWU Scholarship Program, this year there are fewer applicants than the available scholarships. Since the whole purpose of the SWU Scholarship Program is to assist as many deserving, young members as we can, we decided to award scholarships to all three applicants regardless of their branch membership. We now introduce to you (in alphabetical) order) the bright, hopeful students through whom you are helping to keep alive the dream of the Slovenian immigrant for a better education and a better life. Christopher Cazin 333 Forestry Road Aurora, MN 55705 FRANCES BARMAN SCHOLARSHIP Jennifer Dickinson P.O. Box 746 Fruitland, ID 83619 James Hofsommer P.O. Box 363 Gilbert, MN 55741 IP The SWU Scholarship Committee Olga Ancel Victoria Bobence Marjorie Church Kathleen Emerson Irene Odorizzi Mary Lou Videgar Carita Girman, Director Christopher Cazin is the son of Linda Cazin of Aurora, Minnesota. Christopher, a member of SWU Branch No. 35 for seven years, plans to major in Law Enforcement at Hibbing Community College. His involvement with young people in his volunteer work has led him to choose this career because Christopher would like to help juvenile offenders find alternatives to crime. At Mesabi East High School, Christopher has participated in the band, played basketball, baseball, and football, and has served on the staff of the school newspaper. Christopher has also volunteered his time as an altar server, basketball referee, and baseball umpire, as well as at various community and church events. He has been active in his parish youth group and on Teenager’s Encountering Christ retreats. Christopher appreciates the family Slovenian traditions from gardening to cooking that he attained from watching his grandfather. Jennifer Dickinson will receive the Frances Barman Scholarship. Jennifer is the daughter of Carol and Dennis Dickinson of Fruitland, Idaho. Jennifer, a member of SWU Branch No. 50 for 17 years, plans to major in Science at the University of Idaho. At Fruitland High School, Jennifer has been an active member of the National Honor Society, Catholic Youth Organization, Athletic Club, Future Farmers of America, and Students for Global Awareness. She has received various awards including the Presidential Fitness Award, National Science Merit Award, U.S. Cheerleader Achievement Award, and Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Jennifer has been nominated for and attended the Congressional Youth Leadership Council in Washington, D.C. In addition to her role as cheerleading captain, staff coordinator of the yearbook, and Homecoming Committee chairman, Jennifer has been involved in the band, drill team, school newspaper, and her church youth group. Jennifer has also found time to play the piano at a local retirement center, and to care for a shut-in husband and wife. Jennifer attributes her love for Slovenian music and food to her grandmother, Jean Paik. James Hofsommer is the son of Sherry Hofsommer of Gilbert, Minnesota and James Hofsommer of Markham, Minnesota. James, a member of SWU Branch No. 35 for 5 years, plans to major in Graphic Arts at Range Technical College in Eveleth, Minnesota. James hopes to own his own advertising agency or to join the advertising firm owned by his sister Chris. At Mesabi East High School, James has been an honor student. His extracurricular activities have been limited due to his responsibilities on his father’s farm both before and after school as well as during the summer. James has taught himself to play the guitar. James enjoys painting, drawing, hunting, fishing and skiing. Irene M. Odorizzi 2362 Paddock Lane Reston, V A 22091 THE IMMIGRANT PAULA FROM SPODNI KAŠELJ* Part II There was no honeymoon trip. Within a day or two of the wedding Paula resumed work at the Močilnikars and in her own household. Paula and Johan rented three small rooms in the back of a house on E. 41st Stret; it had a little yard in which Johnny could play. Her first purchases for this modest household included a big copper kettle for laundry, a washtub, scrubbing board, pots and pans, mantle clock, bedroom chests and a kerosene lamp. They also purchased a bed for themselves and a small one for Johnny. The kitchen table and chairs, along with the flatware, was received as a wedding present. Every stick of kitchen furniture was washed down each week and the floor was scrubbed on her knees, as well as the back stairs of the house leading from the kitchen to the sidewalk. When Johan had arrived in America he assessed the situation regarding Johnny who was in the hospital struggling through another one of the childhood illnesses. He asked himself, “Why this frailty and illness?” Johan wrote to his mother in Spodni Kašelj relating the pathetic condition of little Johnny who was frail and sickly. At the age of two, he hadn’t learned to walk nor did he talk; but Johnny had suffered through all the childhood illnesses including dipth-eria. Modern doctors might assess the illness as being psychological. In the Močilnikar household Johnny was unwelcome and Paula was discouraged from bringing him downstairs to play with the Močilnikar youngsters. In spite of his early age, this rejection may have been felt and embedded deeply into Johnny’s psyche. Since in those early years there was no father present, the love he received was only from Paula and even this was rationed as she was occupied with raising the Močilnikar children. There is a story about a French King who believed that French children were bom “knowing" the French language. To prove his theory, he had 50 new-born infants of French parents taken away and lodged with non-French speaking families. The experiment failed. The children could not speak French and one third of the children died within a year as parental love had been denied them. So, skinny, frail and sickly Johnny was doomed to die perhaps within a year or so. No one really cared, except Paula, of course. Babies died all the time, as did Johanna’s * Spodni Kašelj is near Ljubljana. first child. So what if it happened to little Johnny? In short, he was already being written off. But, Johan was determined that this child would live. And live he did. Suffering through the early childhood diseases may have endowed Johnny with immunities that protected him later in life. When the flu epidemic hit Cleveland in 1918, Johnny survived it easily. Johan had saved Johnny’s life mostly by bringing into the picture his parental love and perhaps an extra concern as to how the child was being fed. His concern saved Paula as well. It would have been devastating had her infant child died and her first child, Francelj, left behind in Slovenia, raised by people who were almost strangers to her. Two years after his arrival in America, Johan sent a letter to hsi mother, Neža, along with a photo of his son. “Here is a photograph of little Johnny. He’s quite chubby now as you can see, perhaps a bit small for four years of age, otherwise all right. As long as I have my health he shall want for nothing and the same goes for little Edward.” Johan kept his pledge. Edward, Paula’s third child had been born one year after her marriage. More living space was now required and a small house was rented in a back yard on Superior Avenue. Setting up the household was too slow a process for Paula as Johan’s salary was not lavish and she no longer worked for Johanna. Needing extra income, Paula decided to resume work at her Uncle Jože’s saloon. There were 50-75 lunches to be served in the saloon which was located on Hamilton Avenue near 53rd St., in the factory district. After the lunch hour, there was considerable cleaning to do in the kitchen. Johanna didn’t get paid much but there was always a portion of ham, occasionally some goulash or beef pot roast that she could take home for supper. She was required to pay for bread, however; so to save even this little bit of money, she began to bake her own bread as she had learned in Slovenia. A sewing machine became one of the first major purchases after she started working once again. Paula had been taught seamstress work in Slovenia and made all of the clothes for Johnny and Eddie as well as for herself, with the exception of coats. Johnny was enrolled at St. Vitus School in the fall of 1918, just about the time the war in Europe ended. The first grade class at St. Vitus that year was the largest in its history. There were 118 first graders, which reflected the fact that 1910-1911 was the peak of Slovenian immigration in the Cleveland area. Paula continued to buy groceries from the Močilnikar grocery store but she was determined not to ask for any favors. Groceries were purchased on credit and a little grocery book detailed all purchases with an indelible pencil. Payment was due the first of every month but her payments were made two or three days earlier. Johan worked in a factory and his salary was not that good, but with her help they would make out. A saving schedule was begun. They had learned that a house could be purchased for less than $2,500 with a $500 down payment. They had estimated that a down payment could be saved in three years. The grand plan was to buy a house as soon as possible and they did accomplish this aim in three years. Johan was less ambitious than the Molčilnikars and Plevniks but he wanted to be his own boss and not work in a factory. He was talented artistically and could draw free hand and sketch quite well. He had a beautiful Spencerian handwriting. Johan enrolled in an evening English class for foreigners at the local library and he supplemented his income by doing paper-hanging on spare evenings and on Sunday. He could wallpaper a house in three days and the results would be a piece of art. It was a pleasure for him to look over a job when it was completed as it was always neat and professional looking. Eventually, Johan parlayed this moonlighting work into a fulltime paperhanging business, though never to the extent that he would have more than one or two employees working for him. The house they finally purchased after three years was located on E. 53rd Street, near St. Vitus Church. It had a yard sufficient for a bit of vegetable gardening and a rental apartment upstairs which would help with the mortgage payments. Johnny enjoyed school, a big relief to his mother, because she now had only Edward to care for during the day. Paula managed to find someone to take care of Eddie during working hours and she secured a full time factory job. Both Paula and Johan were determined to work things out and bring Frankie from Slovenia. Fortunately, Johan was in favor of Frankie coming to America and joining the family. After all, Frankie was his son, and if not his son, then certainly that of his brother. At any rate, it was the decent thing to do and Johan was a compassionate man at heart. Letters were written to arrange for Frankie’s voyage to America. A neighboring woman in Kašelj, Francka Boš-tetova was scheduled to come to America so she was commissioned to bring ten-year old Frankie to America. Great expectations were in progress for Frankie’s arrival! The two brothers, Johnny and Eddie, looked forward to having a big brother join them. For one thing, Frankie would strengthen them as a team when confronted by neighborhood toughies. They would stick together and take on any of them at any time. Frankie finally arrived. He was a tallish boy for his age with black hair and tanned skin, reflecting someone who was outdoors a lot. Paula was ecstatic and even Johan was most happy at the turn of events. It added instantly to his family. A family photo was commissioned at Bukovnik, the photographer for Slovenes on St. Clair Ave. The photos were sent back home to Slovenia as well as passed around to the American relatives. Now everything was perfect. To top it all off, there were plans to buy a model T Ford, not a new one but a second hand touring car. For a Slovene in 1921, it was an American dream. Sure enough, the car was purchased within a year. Johan quickly learned to drive and it was immediately placed into service for Sunday excursions to the country, for picnics or visits to the zoo on the west side or the museums near 105th Street. The car did something else as well. It freed families from having to live near their work and enabled Paula and Johan Sešek to plan on moving their family to Collinwood, an outlying section of Cleveland, where the Mams lived. Collinwood had a farm-like quality, neighbors kept cows, maybe a goat and there was a neighbor who even kept pigs! Vineyards were all round. The Močilnikars and Plevniks had selected the Nottingham area. The new house, which cost only $3,600, was located in Nottingham, on Shawnee Avenue, and remained in the family for the next 50 years. There was a rental unit upstairs as well as a pear tree and an apple tree in the yard. The Perdans lived next door, the Perkos three doors away and the Travnikars across the street. A Slovenian grocery store was also conveniently situated across the street. Now, the Sešeks could have a few chickens in the yard, a rabbit hutch, a couple of cats and a good family watch dog. Paula at her garden - the home they bought in 1921 The move occurred in September 1921, and the children were immediately enrolled at St. Paul’s Catholic School in Euclid, a 20 minute walk. Frank was put into the fifth grade, Johnny in the fourth and Eddie in the second grade. The school was basically Irish. Father Ryan was the pastor and Sister Brennan, the mother superior. Next to the Irish, the Slovenians were the predominant ethnic group in the school. The nuns spoke no Slovenian as they did at St. Vitus but Slovenian contact was maintained through a social hall, near Recher Avenue, the Euclid Slovenian Home, on a little street which eventually was named Ljubljana Avenue. Johnny always liked school and it added to his self-esteem to be able to compete in class with students coming from families where English was spoken in the home. The Sešeks spoke a kind of Slovenian-English mixture like this sentence, “Če boš ti drivo karo, jaz ne grem". Translated it meant, "If you drive the auto (car). I’m not going.” Frankie was also a good student. When he completed grammar school, plans were made for further education. Paula and Johan did not want Frankie to work in a factory but in the white collar field as a typist and bookkeeper. After one year of high school, he was sent to Spencerian School, for business classes. Frankie learned typing, shorthand and bookkeeping. After two years he finished business school and began his first job with Blumel Ignition, a specialty automobile repair shop owned by two Slovenian brothers. It was a small office and Frankie was the all-around office manager and bookkeeper. (To be continued) HUGS AND SQUEEZES TO THESE HERITAGE DONORS We are so happy to report that recently many donations were made to the Heritage Fund and the Museum. First of al! I’d like to mention the plaque which hangs in the Museum and features donors of $100 or more. The following ladies contributed to the plaque. National President, Victoria Bobence, presented a $100 check at the recent National Board Meeting. It was in memory of her mother, Mary Erchul, who reorganized Branch 34. Mrs. Erchul went from door to door and asked ladies to join the SWU Branch 34 so that the fledgling branch would not fade into oblivion. Her interest and enthusiasm kept the branch active for many years. This same enthusiasm and love for the SWU was passed on to her daughter, Tory, who has been a dedicated National President for the past eight years. They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree and it appears that Tory is like her Mom. Vice President, Beverly Jackson, recently suffered the loss of her dear father. We extend condolences to Bev and to her sister Barbara Chiodo, who has been working conscientiously on the twenty-second convention in San Francisco. Beverly also presented a check for $100.00 at the National Board Meeting in memory of her father and mother, Joseph and Frances Chiodo. Frances was very active in Branch 13 and a ZARJA reporter for many years. In her daughter Beverly, we see another example of a mother who has influenced her daughter into becoming a very active member of the SWU. Other memorials in memory of Joseph Chiodo were from: Cirila Kermavner, National Auditor, $10; Rose Scoff, of San Francisco and Former Regional President of the West, $35; Kenneth & Irene Odorizzi, $20. National Auditor, Josephine Lustik, donated $100 toward the plaque in honor of her mother and father, Mary and Joseph Vidmar of Joliet, Illinois who were immigrants to America. Jo has made numerous donations to the heritage fund and Slovenian Museum through the years. ZARJA reporter for Branch 30, Mary Pavlic of Chambiee, Georgia, sent a donation of $10.00 to the Heritage Fund. Mary said, “it was long overdue and since I was writing checks for many other things, I thought it was time to send a check to Heritage.” How nice if other members would take your lead, Mary, and do the same when it’s check writing time. Sabina Bartol, former President of Branch 103, sent a lovely note with Easter greetings. She mentioned, “Easter is a special time of Peace and Joy. A Blessed a Happy Easter to you, our Director of the Heritage Museum and your caring workers and volunteers.” Her lovely note brought with it a check for $25.00. Sabina is one of the most generous SWU members that I have met. She readily contributes to all the projects and causes which are sponsored by the branch, the organization or heritage. UNITED STATES HONORS SLOVENIA The Slovenian flag blew strongly in the cold wind on Friday, March 10, when the U.S. Department of Defense honored the Republic of Slovenia at a full military honors ceremony, complete with a 21 gun salute, held at The Pentagon in Washington, D.C. This momentous occasion was held in conjunction with a World War II Commemorative Photo Exhibit and the signing of an alliance between the U.S. and Slovenia for further development of military strength and security in Slovenia. Sec. of Defense William J. Perry hosted the Slovene Minister of Defense, Jelko Kacin and the Slovene Ambassador to the U.S., Dr. Ernest Petrie with full military honors at the River Entrance to the Pentagon. Speeches by important dignitaries and a 50th Anniversary award ceremony honored the Slovenians and the American airmen who cooperated during WWII followed the ceremony. Each of the awardees spoke emotionally of their war experiences and there was hardly a dry eye in the audience upon hearing and seeing these men reminisce and grasp each other in emotional embraces. All the emotions of war survival and victory were evident on every face. Mr. Pokar representing the Slovenian Partisans said, “small nations are capable of great deeds when fighting for their survival,” and that “America helped win Slovenia’s freedom in WW II and their independence in 1991.” Mr. Kacin stated that after fifty years, both sides were proud of their part in the Allied victory and that the Photo Exhibit scheduled in Ljubljana during the month of May would be a symbol of the friendly relationship between both countries. Each of the American airmen who had flown over Slovenia expressed respect and gratitude for the brave Slovenians who had defied many obstacles to rescue the wounded airmen and ultimately transfer them to the Allied lines. They praised the Slovenian women who had cared for them and saved their lives when their planes were shot down in Slovenia. It was a privilege to have attended this inspiring ceremony with my husband, Kenneth and friend, Matilda “Til-lie” Ausich. Tillie had worked in the Pentagon for 30 years and following the reception of danish, petits fours and coffee we were escorted through the Pentagon and its many Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps corridors. Space is limited in this column and so my comments regarding the speeches have been condensed; however, it was edifying to know that Slovenia and America enjoy a close bond of friendship, formed fifty years ago, and which continues with even greater strength into the next millenium. Long live these two great nations in peace and tranquility! HERMINE PRISLAND DICKE 3717 COUNCIL CREST MADISON, Wl 53711 S My dear members: This is my last column, after almost 30 years, which is devoted to my beloved mother, Marie Prisland, who dedicated her life to the founding and development of the Slovenian Women’s Union. Two of her favorite recipes follow with her comments. Being food editor has been a satisfying and rewarding experience. 1 loved receiving your recipes and cherish your many letters. Please keep carrying the S. W.U. in your hearts - ever loyal and dedicated to its ideals. With sisterly love, Goodbye and blessings, Hermine r' -~i AJMPREN CUCUMBERS “A dish I was crazy about as a child in Slovenia and still am. As a child, we were sometimes served a bowl of vegetables or milk soup with it.” 2 medium cucumbers 1 tablespoon salt 4 medium potatoes 2 cups water 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons lard 2 tablespoons flour l1', cups potato broth Cracklings (ocvrki), optional 1 teaspoon vinegar •'4 teaspoon pepper *'« pound bacon, fried crisp REFRIGERATED DOUGH POTICA “This is a popular recipe because the potica can be prepared in two stages.” NIGHT BEFORE: 2 ounces compressed yeast or 3 packages dry yeast 3,a cup warm milk 1 2 tablespoons sugar 5 2 tablespoons flour 1 7 cups sifted flour 1 2 teaspoons salt 2 l'i cup sugar 1 Grated rind of one lemon cup butter (l1'! sticks), room temperature cup warm milk egg yolks, beaten teaspoon vanilla cup raisins cups boiling water once rum In bowl, crumble yeast into warm milk, add sugar and flour, mix and let stand to rise, about 10 minutes. In large bowl, combine S1'? cups flour, salt, sugar and lemon rind: reserve remaining flour. With fingers work softened butter into flour mixture until all butter is absorbed. Make a well in center; add milk, egg yolks, vanilla and prepared yeast. With wooden spoon, stir until well mixed. On floured surface, knead until smooth and elastic, about 15 minutes, adding small amounts of remaining flour, if needed, until dough is no longer sticky. Place in greased bowl; turn to grease top. Cover tightly; refrigerate overnight. Pour boiling water over raisins; let stand about 10 minutes. Drain and dry. Add rum to raisins; let stand covered overnight. NEXT DAY: Remove dough from refrigerator; let stand at room temperature for about 1 hour (more pliable). Grease three 12 x 4-inch loaf pans or four 9 x 5-inch bread pans. Prepare filling. 1 pound walnuts, finely ground 1 lU cup milk or cream l'* lli cup butter 5 l,i cup honey 11;2 teaspoon cinnamon cup sour cream egg whites, room temperature cups sugar (divided) Grind nuts. Heat milk or cream, butter and honey over low heat, stirring until butter melts. Pour over walnuts; mix. Add cinnamon and sour cream. Beat egg whites until stiff; gradually add 1 cup sugar, beating constantly. Fold into walnut mixture. Cover table with floured cloth; roll out dough to 26 x 40 inches. Spread filling over dough to 2 inches from end to be rolled last. Sprinkle filling long side start rolling up dough with fingers; continue by hand, stretching back slightly to make a tight roll; try to keep edge? even. Prick with thin knitting needle or cake tester, about every several turns, 7. to 3 inches to avoid air pockets. Line greased pans along roll. With edge of flat p’ate cut roll to fit pans, pinching ends to seal. Cover loaves in pans; let rise in warm place l1;i to 2 hours until doubled. Before baking in 325° oven, brush tops with a beaten egg for shiny crust. Bake 1 hour and 10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pans, about 20 minutes. Remove to wire rack. NOTE: For smaller slices; Roll both long sides to middle of dough forming a double roll. Proceed as above. Cut lengthwise through middle. Peel cucumbers and slice paper thin into a bowl. Mix in one tablespoon salt; set aside for at least one hour. Peel the potatoes and cook in 2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt. When tender, drain, reserve potato broth and mash the potatoes. In skillet heat the lard. Add flour, stirring constantly; cook over low heat until golden brown. Stir in potato broth and cracklings, if on hand. Add cucumbers that have been squeezed with hands to remove all liquid. Stir in vinegar and cook for 7 minutes. Add mashed potatoes; mix well. Place in serving dish and sprinkle with pepper. Garnish with crumbled bacon. NOTE: Mamma made this dish during her last visit in our home. H. flCTIUITIES. NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Our May meetings are always special. We all attend Mass in memory of all our members who are no longer with us and were instrumental with the success of Br. 2. Thanks to Father Blase and Sister Germaine for the lovely Mass. Our Mother of the Year crowns the Blessed Mother and this year we were happy to honor Jennie Worth. It was nice to meet Jennie’s family and friends. A skit was performed by Elsie Ciszek, Marie Knych and Ray Nusko depicting one day in Jennie’s life. (She is indeed a busy lady, she has been a hospital volunteer for over 20 years) Jennie received a lovely Precious Moments “Angel” memento from Br. 2. Her son, Joe had flower arrangements on each table, these were later raffled off. Jo Lukus and Helen Fitzgerald made lovely favors for each member. We were treated to a delicious supper by our members. Thanks to ALL our members for their help. Thanks to everyone who brought items for the “Cheer Basket.” The 75 year members will be honored. They are Dorothy Drager, Mae Persa, Elsie Ciczek, Theresa Rhodes and Jo Lucas. Congratulations to Gordon New-bould who worked very hard and was presented the top honor of the Boy Scouts, the “Eagle Award”, at St. Vincent DePaul/Peoria. Over 100 family and friends were there to wish him success in his future scouting. The Baraga Mass will resume in Sept. last Saturday of the month 5:00 p.m. in Lemont. Your prayers are needed to help Bishop Baraga for the beatification process. Please contact Irene Kalina if you are interested in the Baraga Labor Day trip this fall. Our condolences to the family of Tony Martone. Please remember him in your prayers. We will all miss him very much. Tony was always there to help at our meetings and picnics. There are no words to really thank San Francisco, Branch 13 for their hospitality and all the work that went into getting the super convention organized and running smoothly. Bar- bara, Beverly, Michelle, Josephine, Ceta and other members, you were all terrific! We will never forget you all. I think we did leave our hearts in San Francisco because you were all so kind and did everything that was possible for us to have a terrific time. How could we not love S.F. when you all showed us how very much you loved your city. We are just sorry that all our members were unable to make the trip. God Bless you all, Hvala lepa in naj Bog blagoslovi vas. It was nice to meet the members from all over the country. Good luck to the new board and much luck to Br. 47 who will be planning our next convention... somewhere in Florida. Thank you, Bob Mueller! How we enjoyed singing those Slovenian songs and dancing to your music! Chicago is a great city-maybe you can make the Zveze Picnic. A-E-A-E-A-I-O! SWU SLOVENIA TRIP? Sounds like fun...next year? The changes that will be taking place in the organization will be reported by the officers, please read the convention section in this and future ZARJAS. Please pray for Irene Carter who is back in the hospital. Hope you all will have a happy, safe summer. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA. Love, DAISY PICNIC ZVEZA DAY Sunday, July 16, 1995 NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO St. Mary’s 1400 Main St. Lemont, III. Mass: Marija Pomagaj Chapel 11:00 a.m. Benediction & Litany 2:30 p.m. Picnic on grounds after Mass Live Music Games for Children & Adults Refreshments It is unbelievable that we are already in the month of July! Our May meeting was the conclusion of meetings until September. At this meeting, a beautiful tribute was given to Helen Skul, our Mother-of-the-Year, and then she was presented with a gift. Helen was very worthy of this honor. A short meeting was held and then refreshments were served by our hostesses Margaret Cullen and Eileen Kaplan and others who helped. Margaret and Eileen are to be commended for the beautiful leadership they have given us, both at the Slovenian Women’s Union meetings and the Senior Sociables. Every Wednesday during Lent, except the Wednesday before Easter, the ladies of St. Mary’s Church, which include some of the S.W.U. members, prepared and served a variety of meatless soups which were enjoyed by all. Patti’s restaurant furnished the soup the last Wednesday for which we were very grateful. Worthy of commendation are the skills of Bernice Krašovec and Eileen Kaplan who created the beautiful panels for the sanctuary that depicted the Gospel messages during Lent and Advent. On Mother’s Day, ladies of St. Mary’s Church were treated by the men of the Holy Name Society to a breakfast following the 8:00 a.m. Mass. The ladies were very appreciative and enjoyed it. How nice to be served like this and, of course, there were prizes and parishioners over 90 were mentioned with Mary Koche var, who is 97, accorded the honor of being the oldest in our parish. Helen Sukle was honored as the oldest present. May 15, 1993 marked the 100th Anniversary of St. Mary’s Church. On May 12, the John Mendoza Postmark and Cachet Envelopes commemorating our 100th Anniversary were unveiled and presented to Father Louis Kirby and St. Mary’s Church. Attending were Postmaster Robert Podio, Artist John Mendoza, with Bob Sprouse as Master of Ceremonies. Many parishioners and friends were present. The Cachet En- velope is a collector’s item and is on sale nationally. The 100th Anniversary Directories were also given out. On May 15, the St. Mary Postal Station was located on the Rectory porch for the 100th Anniversary Postal Cancellations. Many sent mail out from there. The celebration of 100 years as a parish was held Sunday, the 21st of May, with a polka mass. Slovenian music was provided by Richard Eurich and the Prešeren Choir. The Most Rev. Arthur N. Tafoya, Bishop of our Diocese, celebrated the Mass with con-celebrants the Very Reverend Kenneth Hein, O.S.B. and Reverend Louis Kirby, O.S.B. Other clergy were present, one of whom was Reverend Alan Schwab, our former pastor. After Mass a reception was held wsith ethnic food served. Reverend Richard Gielow, who was instrumental in beginning the Prayer Garden project, celebrated his 25th Anniversary at a Mass at St. Mary’s Church May 23. A reception followed. We congratulate him on his Ordination to the Priesthood twenty-five years ago. Travelers in April were Anna Klun and her daughter Joan Mihalick, who spent Easter week in California visiting Joan’s children and grandchildren and great granddaughter. They are Ana’s grandchildren and great grandchildren. While there, they attended a fashion show put on by Otis College of Art and Design, which was held in the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel, Beverly Hills, California. Suzy Mihalick was a participant in the fashion show which featured a formal gown and playsuit created by Suzy. Suzy graduated from the college in May and her parents, Joan and John Mihalick, attended the graduation. Gertrude Jordan went to Middletown, California in June to attend the high school graduation of Jeremiah Cone, her great grandson, son of Pattie Moore and grandson of Gertrude’s daughter, Dorothy and husband, Bert Spencer. Adeline Kochevar traveled to Brooklyn, New York for the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Stanley and Ann DePre-sco. Ann is Adeline’s sister. Another one of our travelers was Helen Skul who traveled to Anchorage to visit her daughter Luan. On the return trip, Luan will accompany Helen to Pueblo to spend some time here. On a happy note, congratulations are in order for the 50th wedding anniversary of James and Retha Minton and 65th for John and Ann Smith and Stanley and Olga Golob. Congratulations are also in order for Raeanna Krasovic and Sean W. Tucker who became engaged and plan to marry in June 1996. On a sad note, we extend our condolences to the families of Lorine Zobeck, Albert (Jonsey) Galich, Anthony (Tony) Zaitz, Jay Allan Martin, Angela Jamnick and Catherine Brubnjak. It is interesting to note how well some of our people are doing away from their home town. Recently, former Puebloan, Joseph A. Petrick, now an associate professor of management at Wright State University in Ohio, was elected president of the individual entrepreneurship division of the U.S. Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Joseph is the son of Joseph and Hermina Petrick. Get well wishes are extended to those who are ill and remembered in our prayers are those who are homebound and in nursing homes. Have a good summer! PAULINE PAUCHICK NO. 6, BARBERTON, OH Happy 4th! In April went to “Night in Slovenia,” saw authentic dress, dance and Polka - Button-Box Mass. Thanks to Jeannie Negal and Mary Kovacic’s sister and brother Paul - Frances Gerhardt. Also had the cherry blossom festival in May. Hope throughout the summer I see all of you at the music at Lake Anna. Mary Kovacic is sick and awaiting surgery for her back. All our prayers and good wishes are with her. Also thanks for all the prayers. Masses and thoughtful cards sent to Pauline Barberich. From January through May has been an ordeal. She is now at Manor Care, 85 3rd St., Barberton, closer to all our friends. Thanks again. “With all your heart you must trust the Lord and not your own judgement, Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow." Proverb 3,5,6 June Birthdays: Verna Petrich, 6/ 17. July Birthdays: Christine Stopar, 7/27; Mary Doughtery, 7/31; Bobby Winland, 7/3; Mary Poje, 7/22. Death Notice: We all are sad at the passing of Pauline Masak Barberick. After numerous operations and complication she passed away on May 24, 1995 at Manor Care Nursing Home, Barberton. Daughter of Marcus J. Masak and Onzi Francisco bom Oct. 3, 1903 in Bridgeport, Ohio and lived the rest of her life as a Barberton resident. Member of SWU #6 for 59 years, she gave a lot to her lodge and her community. She will be sadly missed. LINDA LAMBRIGHT, Secretary NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Our April meeting was very well-attended. As usual we received our Easter eggs from Matt Dobersek. He colors them and we each receive one. Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Lunch was served by Phylis and her faithful kitchen crew. I attended branch 43 meeting and was impressed with their new bookkeeping system. I presented it to our members and after the convention we will convert and make the job easier for the secretary. This year has not been kind to us. We lost 5 members: Jean Walczewski, Mimi Debelak, Mary Skender, Mary Mam, Mary Mum. Florence Brandt lost her brother. Our charter member, Mary Bucovnik lost her husband. We extend our condolences to the families and remember them in your prayers. Mark your calendar for our Christmas Party on Dec. 7 at Tanner Paul Post. Details at the meeting. Mothers day recognition day dinner for Ann Jelinek was a big success. Ann’s family took off from their work to make an appearance. They got a big kick, winning cans of food and they were generous. Ann, along with son Albert, our member too, are very helpful and generous. I had to miss this affair as I had an 8-day stay in the hospital with acute brochitis. Everything is fine now. Thank you for your prayers, phone calls etc. Lydia Jenich and her husband went to California to await their grandchild’s birth. Connie Lewandowski left for Minnesota again; must like it up there. On May 21 we attended the Slovenian Arts Council Awards Program at U.W.M. honoring our member Jackie Nimmer. She is a transfer from branch 17. Glad you chose us. A tribute was in KSKJ paper on her accomplishments so I won’t repeat. I called Ann Konczal, reporter for Branch 43 and said she should write because some of their members are involved. Be sure to read branch 43 report on this. I’m glad that I’m in that circle of friends. On May 24, State President, Joan Yaklich picked me up and we attended branch 43’s mother’s day celebration. What a nice day spent with such good members and officers. They are going in the right direction, ahead. Good luck. Have a nice vacation and come back with some new ideas. To our shut-ins good health to all who are ailing. MARY KIEL NO. 14, EUCLID, OH We walked into a spring garden as we entered the hall for our Mother of the Year dinner. Tulips, daffodils and hyacinths greeted us in a room bedecked with colorful bouquets. The tables were decorated in soft pastels topped with handcrafted baskets, each of different colors and shapes, thanks to Mary Sintic with the help of her husband, Al. Stana Grill, Mother of the Year, was accompanied by members of her family and friends. Daughters Karen, Connie, Cindy and their husbands and children joined Stana at the head table along with mother-in-law Mary Stražišar (Arrowhead). We were entertained by toddler, Kathleen who was Karen’s daughter. Stana’s son-in-law Bob thanked members for bestowing this honor on Stana and expressed best wishes from her family. As Stana was presented a gift certificate from members, she thanked one and all for making this her special day. Jackie Ulle and Mary Sintic were the tireless volunteer Decorating Committee and President Marty Koren presented each of them with a bouquet of red carnations in appreciation for their work. After a delectable soup-to-strudel dinner served by Sophie Mazzi and her crew, Stana was then serenaded by the beautiful voices of Agnes Tome, Tillie Spehar and Mary Mlakar with a few Slovenian songs for mother. Then more Slovenian tunes with all attending joining in. Our thanks too to Mary Stražišar who once again presented her homemade egg noodles to be sold for the benefit of our branch. A reminder from Secretary Diane Varney that all dues need to be paid at the beginning of each year. So be sure to send your checks as soon as possible to Diane Varney, 1155 Easton Dr., Akron, Ohio 44310. I’d like to make a correction of a death notice which appeared in our April issue. Mary Zakarajsek, who resided at the Slovene Home for the Aged, died at the age of 102. She is survived by her daughter Mary Zimmerman and family. My apologies for the error. Reminder there’ll be no meetings in the months of July and August. Have a safe and happy summer! May it be filled with pleasant memories of picnics and gatherings with friends and family! ALICE KUHAR NO. 16, SO. CHICAGO, IL Greetings dear members! I am BACK! It has been a few years since I contributed to the ZARJA. Please bear up with me -1 will need your contributions of notes, and newsy items. My phone number is 646-0705 - please keep this number handy. I have an answering machine so I will get your messages! Our branch was well represented at the National Convention - headed by our very capable recording secretary, Vida Kumse - our delegate, Gladys Buck was our alternate. Others were: Edna Winters, our President, Bernice Jarkovich, Helen Milanovich, Mary Rago, Mary Ann Skibee, Susan Skibee, Fran Zupančič and her sister, Jeanette Nemchock. According to all reports they had a superb time. Our congratulations and best wishes to all of the newly-elected officers. And to our former officers a huge thank you for a job well done! All of you gave your best for many, years. We love you - Hvala lepa! Our Mother of the Year party was a huge success, this due to Edna’s very capable leadership and very able assistance by Gladys, Vida, Sylvia, and Clara Saviano. Mary Therese Ehnat, our Mother of the Year was crowned by our 1994 Mother, Bernice Jarkovich. With her family in attendance, children and grandchildren, Mary Therese received many accolades. A goodly number of her friends were also in attendance to pay tribute to a lovely, personable lady. A good time was had by all. We also honored four 50-year members - three sisters and their cousin -namely Kay Jurincie, Chris Tomasik and Dolores Franko (the Krai girls) and our Sylvia Spretnjak, their cousin. Mary Rago, our Vice President, presented her sisters and her cousin with their 50 year pins. It may be embarrassing to her, but I do want to say something about Sylvia Spretnjak. Sylvia is our very capable hostess at our meetings - she knows how to set everything up. The crowns that adorn our Mothers of the Year are made with TLC, as are the memory books by Sylvia. She and her sister. Marge made many beautiful favors and decorations for our Christmas parties. Sylvia attended many regional conventions - but most of all we salute her for her stint in the U.S. Waves (Navy.) A most gracious thanks to you, Sylvia. Yes, Branch 16 has some really great members! Among them is another lovely friendly lady who celebrated her 75th birthday. Our Elaine (Buns) Strubel was the recipient of a surprise party - I understand that her son and daughter in law, and her “pride and joy,” her granddaughter, also surprised her. Our Alvina Sreboth reached her 90th birthday on April 27th. All the best to you, Alvina! Though these wishes are a little late, please accept them with all our love. Many happy returns to our May celebrants - Gladys, Vida, Bernice, Martz, Bublich, and our dear Clara Saviano. The Easter Bunny hopped out to Noblesville, IN with Edna and Joe to visit Sandy, Bruce and the grandchildren. Many good wishes to Matilda Voss granddaughter, Debbie, on receiving TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE: FATHER JOSEPH BOŽNAR Father is the Spiritual Director of Br. 25, Cleveland. St. Vitus Church in Cleveland, Ohio was the scene of a gala celebration in May, 1995! The parishioners celebrated the Silver Jubilee of their pastor, Father Joseph Božnar under whose guidance the landmark Slovenian church has been flourishing for 16 years. Fr. Božnar says his goal in life has been to be a good parish priest. The influences of his religious background, his environment, his family and his nationality have all contributed to making this his uppermost endeavor. The activities he has encountered at St. Vitus and other parishes before that have increased his zeal and invigorated him as it does all true leaders. It is interesting to note that after 25 years as a priest, Fr. Božnar has been able to clearly state the reasons that continue to motivate him: They are to pray for world peace in a world continually turning to violence and hatred, to pray for his fellow clergy and religious and to do a good deed whenever possible, refuting the old “saw” that says a person can’t do anything to change the world! We hope that Fr. Božnar will measure his happiness in the good deed he does each time he meets someone and in each smile of friendship offered to him. May God strengthen and inspire him for many years to come! Editor her degree in Elementary Education and Sociology. My grandson, Danny graduated from Fenwick High School and is heading out to Holy Cross College in Massachusetts. Kathy and Tim, his mom and dad are really proud of their guy. Our condolences to our member, Dorothy Perok and her family on the loss of their husband and father, Dan. I know that all of you remember our Ana Lustig. She was a real booster and a go-getter for our branch. Ana is now recuperating at home - I know she would appreciate hearing form you. Gladys asked me to add a little note to remind any members who are delinquent in their dues. Please check your dues books and if you are in arrears, please pay up. Come to our meetings on the second Saturday of the month - St. George Church Hall - come and enjoy lunch with us! We eat at 1 p.m. My best to all of you. MARGE PREBIL NO. 19, EVELETH, MN On May 3rd, we honored Maria Fer-kul as our Mother of the Year for 1995 with lunch at the Holiday Inn in Eveleth. There were eleven members present and a guest, Maria’s husband Stanley. (Please see story on page 11.) In February we had our first meeting of the year. We made plans for the Mother of the Year dinner and had a nice visit discussing our family news to politics. In April we lost a long time member, Jennie Zupetz. Years ago she was a very active member and held an office for a number of years. Mrs. Elizabeth Goritchan has not been in the best of health and recently broke her hip and is presently in the nursing home recuperating. Her daughters, Maria Anderson our member, and her sister make sure that she is well taken care of. Possible meeting during summer months to get information, make reservations, and plans for attending the state convention in Biwabik in September 10. Submitted by, VIDA LANARI, Secretary NO. 20, JOLIET, IL I thank all the wonderful members and guests who were at the Woman of the Year dinner on May 9th. It was a wonderful feeling to see all of you there. I also thank all the officers who chose me for this wonderful honor and for all their hard work to make the evening one I will never forget. Also to Lillian Cepon for her delicious cooking, to Helen Minnick for her Slovenian cocktails, to the musicians who kept us all so entertained. The Wolf brothers and the Too Loud Polka Boogie band. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Joliet had 21 people attend the convention in San Francisco. From what I hear they all had an enjoyable time. They did a lot of walking and eating! Bertha Hofer, member of Branch 20 and village president of Shorewood, IL has earned the 1995 Joliet Junior College distinguished service award for outstanding community service. Branch 20 congratulates you. Branch 20 also had two other members who were Women of the Year in other areas and they are Olga Ancel for the Altar and Rosary Society for St. Joseph’s Church and Margaret Stalzer for Senior. Parishioners for St. Joseph’s. Happy Anniversary to Joseph and Margaret (Stariha) Dusa on 50 years of marriage on May 5th. Mr. & Mrs. Dusa have 2 children and 4 grandchildren. Get well wishes are sent to Margaret Rems and Theresa Papesh. I saw Theresa last Sunday and she looks great. She says all the prayers helped her to full recovery. Johanna Vella is a new grandma to baby girl, Danielle Elizabeth Vella. Our shut-in members were visited at Easter time with a lovely tulip plant and a friendly visit from: Jo Tezak, Ceil Wolf, Helen Plut, Millie Pucel, Helen Minnick and Ann Dragovan. I am sure the visit was worth more than you know. Branch 20 extends their deepest sympathy to Diane Govednik on the loss of her sister Mary Boziveich. To the family of Lauretta Barney, a 46-year member. To Agnes Dobczyk on the loss of her brother Stanley. To Theresa Gerencher and Josephine Bostanche on the loss of their mother Theresa Muhich, also a member. To Frances Pajak on the loss of her sister Agnes Koscik. To Joan Cardwell on the loss of her brother Wally Doszak. The Joliet group came back home a lot thinner from walking the 7 hills of San Francisco. Joining them for the formal banquet were Marion and Keith Bowers of St. Helena, CA. Marion is We need 24 people who like to BOWL! We’ve got the Lanes - possible Sunday afternoons or Monday nights for friendly weekly bowling - in Joliet! Call by July 31st if you want to participate, (815) 727-1926. All ages! a member of Branch 20 and a former member of the Joliet Cadets under the name of Marion Juricic. Fr. David Stalzer of Joliet was the co-celebrant at Sunday’s Mass held at Our Lady of Victory Church. Bob Kostelc and Rudy Pucel helped with ushering and collecting. Congratulations to two of our Junior members. First to Connie Cwudzinski for her outstanding performance at a Solo & Ensemble contest. The contest was sponsored by Music on the Move, and Connie received 1st Place. Connie is the daughter of Art & Donna Cwudzinski. The other congratulations goes to Erin Regis who read her essay at the 4th Annual Undergraduate Conference on English Language & Literature at the College of St. Francis. Her paper was about the meaning of John Donne’s “The Ecstacy”. Erin is the daughter of Mike and Dottie Regis. Don’t forget Zveza Day in Lemont on July 16th. Host branch is Chicago #2. (Sorry, I won’t be there, we are having my husband’s family reunion at that time. We have VICICH’S coming from all over the U.S.) Museum Has New Officers President, Mildred Pucel, Secretary, Molly Gregorich, Treasurer, Margaret Dusa, Telephone, Helen Plut and Social Chairman, Marie Scheidt. SWU is fortunate to have such loyal and diligent members! Until next time, take care and may God bless. JOYCE VICICH NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL The nine members in attendance at the April meeting voted to assist our delegate and alternate to the National Convention in San Francisco with a cash donation to be used toward their expenses. It was noted that a Junior member would be graduating from our local High School this year and there was some discussion regarding a graduation gift. It was decided to bring this up at the May dinner when there would be more members in attendance and we would get a better idea of what the majority would agree to. Betty Stack and Doris Hallett accepted the responsibility of being Co-Chairmen of the May dinner. It was held on Thursday May 18, at noon, in the La Salle room in Days Inn. The Paramount Club was undergoing some remodeling and it wasn’t completed in time for us to have our dinner there so Harold Witek arranged for the use of the room at Days Inn. The food was excellent, as usual, as it was prepared and served by Paramount Catering. Our dessert was apple or cherry strudel prepared by Darlene (Witek) Krueger, our member and it was a delicious treat. There were 24 members and a guest in attendance as well as our Spiritual Advisor, Rev. John Onderko. Betty and Doris made May baskets filled with candy as favors for each of us and the tables were lovely. We thank Betty and Doris for arranging the dinner—they always do a great job! Thanks too to Harold and Todd Witek for a delicious dinner and complimentary beverage. After dinner there was a short discussion regarding the June meeting and it was decided to have a Potluck dinner before the meeting on June 15th, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meat and beverage will be provided and each person attending is to bring her own table service and a dish to pass. We thought of a picnic in the park but decided to meet in the school gymnnasium due to the predicted large population of mosquitoes due this summer. Helen Swietek, Barb Pohar and Sharon Brady will be in charge of our potluck. We asked for suggestions to form some policy regarding our junior members who graduate from High School. It was decided to give a cash gift toward their further education. Brenda Weber, a May graduate of LaSalle-Peru Twp. High School will be the first recipient. Brenda has been a member of our branch since 1984. Her mother, Mary Ann Weber and sister, Julie are also our members as well as grandma, Jane Gruenwald who joined in 1956. We had our Mother’s Day Dinner at Hometown Buffet Restaurant (very good food) located at Euclid Mall at 5:30 p.m. on May 15. There were 25 members present and 6 guests. Frances Ogoreuc’s great granddaughter and Charlotte Perdan’s granddaughter, Alexanderia presented each Lady with a pink carnation as we arrived. Sick members are Mary Stark and Mary Golobic. Get well wishes from'all the members. Ceil McLean’s daughter and Ceil Znidar’s granddaughter, Adrienne McLean was married on May 20th to Steve Jager at St. Felicitas’ in Euclid. Reception was at Croatian Hall. Adrienne’s aunt Pam played the organ and her sister in law, Katherine McLean sang. Frances Ogoreuc and daughter, Charlotte made a beautiful Afghan for Charlotte to take to California to be raffled off at the Convention in San Francisco. We had a short meeting after the dinner. We will have a picnic supper at our June 21 meeting. No meetings in July and August. Sept. 20th, we will have a Mass at 7 p.m. at St. Christine’s. On Oct. 18, we will have our Chinese Auction. Members, we will need many gifts and donations. Also help the night of the auction selling tickets and serving refreshments. ROSE HAHN, Reporter NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Our Sunshine Person, Ceal Znidar and her husband, Frank celebrated 43 years of marriage and treasurer Charlotte Perdan and husband Rudy had their 28 years of marriage. April birthdays: Marge Sas, Mary Drobnick, Mary Tushar, Anna Tekavec and Margaret Milavec. Some of the ladies are making a trip July 26 to the Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha for the Feast day of St. Ann. Also, a bus trip to Adrian, Mich, to Motherhouse of the Dominican Nuns. We had our Mother’s Day Dinner on Monday, May 15th at the Hometown Buffet Restaurant. We had a Parade of Hats at our meeting. Ladies wearing hats were: Anne Cooke, Helen Kovačevič, Alma Ep-pich, Marge Kovecevich, Adrienne McLean, Charlotte Perdan, Ceal McLean and Josephine Comenshek. We are looking forward to our potluck dinner and will have a short business meeting afterwards. We are anxious to hear all about the National Con- vention from our delegate Jo Grabowski and alternate Mary Ann Brunner at that time. There will be no meetings in July and August but we will meet on Thursday, September 21st, at 7:00 p.m. in La Salle Catholic School Library. At that time we will discuss the Illinois-In-diana State Convention and select a delegate to the Convention in October. Plan to join us as we make plans for the rest of this year. ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN Upon return of our members who had gone to the National Convention in San Francisco, I could not believe that Minnesota has the honor of having one of our members as National President again! We are happy to have as our new president, Jean Korsman! After listening to some comments on the convention, we will be looking forward to hearing a report from our delegate, Adrienne Micklich, when we meet for our first meeting next fall. Our Mother of the Year celebration was just wonderful again this year. Lucille Svatos, our Motherof the Year, had all her children and their spouses in attendance, we had about thirty at our dinner on May 3rd. Our regional and national presidents were with us also, plus Fr. Pakiz, our pastor. I presented a corsage and gift to Lucille, and she received a lovely silk flower centerpiece from her daughter, Kathy. We had a lovely decorated cake for dessert and Lorraine Berg treated us to her husband’s delicious homemade cokecherry wine! At our meeting after the dinner, we approved sending wild rice as our gifts for the convention sales. We thank Mary Gomick, our charter member, for seeing that we got the rice for our delegate to take to San Francisco. It was then, too, that we presented Adrienne with a generous check for her expenses at the convention. Right now, we are having gorgeous summer days, it finallay warmed up and we are busy with vegetable and flower gardens, each day there is such a difference, we hope the weather stays with us, we do need rain, tho. We will now recess until our meeting on September 20 with Angie Grahek and Lorraine Berg as hostesses and the WE MOURN OUR PAST OFFICERS Deepest sympathy to the families of our fine officers. On May 19, 1995, FRANCES KUCIC, Regional President of PA-NY-DC and secretary of Br. 27, No. Braddock, PA died at her home in Turtle Creek. May 21, 1995 was the last day in the life of ANGIE KOZJAN, longtime secretary-treasurer of Br. 40, Lorain, OH. Both had a long history with our Zveza and were active in making their branches viable and successful. We mourn them greatly. door prize will be brought by Kay Dean. Remember Minnesota Day will be held in Biwabik this year, mark it down on your calendars... September 10th. Have a good summer, everyone, enjoy each day! ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter NO. 35, AURORA, MN This will be a report of meetings, Woman of the Year and the Nat’l Convention. Regional President Jean Korsman and Nat’l President, Tory Bobence met with SWU members and delegates to the National Convention on April 16th. This was a very informative meeting, all plans were completed for those attending the convention in San Francisco. Jean reported that Br. 39, Biwab-nik has all their plans made for the State Convention to be held on Sept. 10th. Members, please plan to attend as reports on the Nat’l Convention will be given. On April 23rd, twenty members were present to finalize plans for the Woman of the Year party for Anna Rose Smolich. The response to the call for crafts for the convention was overwhelming. We sold a total of $300 in addition to the crafts sent to the conven- SWU Crest indicates the 65th Anniversary of this branch in 1995. Congratulations! tion. Donations of $100 each were given to the Heritage and Museum Fund, ZARJA Fund and Scholarship Fund. Special thanks to Mary (Rudy) Smolich who made 21 wildlife pillows; Marge (Peterka) Ball, Afghan; Anna Rose Smolich, Stationary; Tony Soukup, Christmas ornaments; Mary Nosan, Adult booties; Phyllis Turk and Ann Mismash, nylon scrubbies. As one lady said, these crafts were truly “labors of love!” Congratulations to our two new SWU Scholarship winners, Linda Cazin’s son, Christopher and Sherry (Noson) Hofsommer’s son, James. Best wishes in all your future plans! Special thanks to Max Shuster and Tona Soukup for their generous annual donations and to everyone who donates to the SWU Scholarship Fund which makes all these scholarships possible. Congratulations to Matthew Hanka who made his confirmation. God bless you. He is Katherina Hanka’s grandson. Corrections: Joseph Charles Furry -not Bradach - is a new Junior Member. A luncheon meeting will be held in August to make plans to attend the State Convention in Biwabik. Thank you to hostesses Betty Rokser and Pauline Korpela for the delicious cheese cake. Sixty friends and relatives (23) including Nat’l President Tory Bobence and Fr. Peter Muhich gathered at Giant’s Ridge to honor our Woman of the Year, Anna Rose Smolich. She was presented with a lovely corsage by President, Florence Holland. The beautiful centerpiece of spring flowers was a gift from her traveling companion, Rose Bolka. Fr. Peter said grace before dinner. Afterward, Anna Hodnik gave an interesting history of the SWU, how and why it was organized, what our goals are and why, and how we choose our Women of the Year. This was for the benefit of our guests who weren’t familiar with us and may not know who we are! Tom Smolich gave a beautiful tribute to his sister, told of her dedication as a teacher for 41 years, an active member of several organizations in our community and is the organist and active member of our Holy Rosary Church. He thanked his parents, Eli and Mary, for setting a good example of “caring and giving” for all their family. Her nephew, John Orazem spoke on behalf of all the nieces and nephews and related this special Aunt was always there to encourage them to get a good education and gave her support to whatever choices they made. She took them on many interesting trips -this year her niece,.Michelle would be going to the Nat’l Convention with her! Fr. Peter thanked her for her dedication as our church organist for 25 years and for all she’s done for our church. Several guests shared interesting comments, too. A decorated basket filled with messages from her family and friends was presented to her to “read and reminisce” after the party was over. Pres. Holland presented her with the book, “Footsteps Thru Time” with an inscription written in calligraphy by Connie Makela (Anna Rose does this in all the books presented to our Women of the Year!) Betty Orazem came from Sandstone Nursing Home to share this special day with her sister and family. Everyone was happy to see her! A short report on the National Convention in San Francisco. We had productive meetings, many important decisions were made (please read your ZARJA for full reports). Our thanks to the retiring officers for a job well done! Congratulations to the new officers, Jean Korsman of Br. 39, Biwabik, MN is our new President. Vice President, Kathleen Dorshak, Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH, Secretary, Evelyn Majercik, Br. 73, Warrensville, OH, Treasurer, Beverly Menart, Br. 33, Duluth, MN, 1st Auditor, Cirila Kermavner, Br. 25, Cleveland, OH, 2nd Auditor, Marge Church, Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH, 3rd Auditor, Pat Figurowski, Br. 20, Joliet, IL, Women’s Activities, Kathleen Emerson, Br. 105, Detroit, MI, Youth Activities, Kathy Schroeder, Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI, Heritage Director, Irene Odorizzi, Br. 103, Washington, D.C., ZARJA Editor, Corinne Leskovar, Br. 2, Chicago, IL. Our thanks to all the members of Br. 13, their President, Jo Aiuto, Convention Chairman, Barbara Chiodo, National Vice President, Beverly Jackson and Michelle Twers, for all your hard work and plans to make the 22nd National SWU Convention a success. We enjoyed your wonderful hospitality, tours, it will be a convention and vacation long remembered. Yes, we did leave our hearts in San Francisco! So much more to tell you in my next report. Enjoy a safe and happy summer! ANNE M. ORAZEM CHISHOLM, MN As much as we all anticipate with joy the coming of summertime — right now I need to say — “O time be kind, be gentle, Give ear to this one thing, Stand still while earth renews herself, O do not hurry spring!” Due to necessity our March meeting was rescheduled and held on Wed. of Holy Week. This resulted in a very low attendance but the excuses were very good. Everyone was in church that evening! A report on the success of our March 23rd luncheon and bake sale revealed a profit of $500. Everyone was pleased. The annual Spring Mother’s Day Mass and Brunch was set for Sunday, April 30th. Charlotte Laurich, our delegate to the national convention in San Francisco submitted an estimate of her anticipated expenses. We will act on this at the next meeting. April birthday honors went to Jennie Samsa and Charlotte Laurich. Rose Niemi and Jenny Samsa served hot cross buns and coffee at the conclusion of the meeting. How appropriate! It is Easter Monday as I write this report. I am yet humming the ALLELUIAS! ALLELUIA - His peace be with you! ***** The girls made up for the poor showing at the April meeting (only 6) by coming in greater force for our May meeting... (20 members!) It was a fine opportunity for Jenny Samsa to thank all the members for their hard work, good spirit and dedication in making our March bake sale and luncheon a huge success. We have a good number of our members confined to the nursing home or home bound. Again Fran Zalec took on the responsibility of delivering in person a flower to each on Mother’s Day. God Bless You - Fran -- for your constant love and caring. Our delegate to the National Convention, Pres. Charlotte Laurich, submit- Our lovely Jennie Samsa on her 90th birthday! ted a close estimate of what her expenses would be for this occasion. The girls voted unanimouslyu to help her with the cost. We are sure that you will represent us well and we are anxious to hear all about your experience. Bon Voyage!!! After hearing of all the glowing reports on our annual Mother’s Day Mass and brunch held on Sun. April 30 I was truly sorry I had to miss the celebration. Fr. Duffy, a visiting Franciscan missionary, celebrated the Mass and joined the group of 38 members at a brunch in the church social hall. Rosie Marino, a new member and Rosie Tanko, a long standing member prepared and served a super delicious breakfast casserole along with eggs, sausage, muffins, rolls and a fruit plate. Fran Zalec’s charming granddaughter entertained the group playing several Slovenian folk tunes on her clarinet. Special honors went to Jenny Samsa on this, her 90th birthday. She was presented a corsage of roses fro her faith-fullness and long active dedication to the SWU. We applaud you and we love you — Jenny. Ann Nusich gave a few heartfelt readings about Mothers. The beautiful spring plants that decorated the tables were won by drawings going to Rose Sterle, Rose Niemi, Rose Faras and Helen Kochevar. We won’t be meeting again until August. We wish you all the joys of the lazy, hazy days of summer. GERT ZAKRAJŠEK 39, BIWABIK, MN Our April meeting was attended by 19 people, so we were able to discuss our “Woman of the Year” dinner and hoped to have a good turnout. Kathy Siskar, Eleanor Indihar and Denise Erchul, our State Convention Co-Chairs had worked out a Committee assignment sheet and the ladies present filled out their preferences. The committee will tabulate those results along with the letters to be sent to our other members. I’m so proud of our ladies and their cheerful willingness to accept a part in this gigantic task. We wished a Happy Birthday (in absentia) to my mother, Annie Purkat who turned 93 on April 7th. She enjoyed her trip to the National Convention in Cleveland so much, and has helped out with my sister-in-law’s and my trip to San Francisco, so we are so grateful to her for her generosity and love of Zveza. I was pleased to accept an invitation from our Vice President, Kathy Siskar, to speak at her class on “INTERCUL-TURAL COMMUNICATIONS” at the Mesabi Community College on April 4th. I spoke of the impact on my growing up in a multi-cultural home, where parents bom in Europe brought their values and dreams to this country and how it shaped my own traditions in religion, work, music, food and especially education. It’s great to use my penchant for “talking” for some good advantage and I thank Mrs. Siskar for her confidence in me. (She wrote me that the students made favorable comments about my “knowledge and enthusiasm”.) Hostesses for the meeting were Mary Suhadolc and her daughter, Jr. member Leah. They served delicious lemon and lime cream dessert. The door prize was a beautiful cloth-covered basket, handmade by Mrs. Suhadolc, and won by our other Junior member, Jaime Siskar. JEAN KORSMAN 40, LORAIN, OH Our Lodge was saddened by the passing away of our Angie Kozjan. We wish to express our sincere sympathy to her family, may God grant her eternal rest. Sixteen came to our meeting in April. Angie Voytko, Angie Mroske and Angie Zgonc served us a delicious dessert. Our Pres, brought our meeting to order with prayer. Agatha Donges was absent due to an accident. We hear that she is doing fine and we hope to see her at our next meeting. We made a change. We will now give $10 to the family of a deceased instead of the usual $5. We donated $50 to the church for Easter. We sent get-well cards to Angie Martin, Agatha Donges, Angie Kozjan and Emma Matos and a birthday card to Angie Kozjan for her 94th. Mary Gradišek and husband Frank celebrated their 49th Wedding Anniversary recently and Jean Balogh and husband George will be celebrating their 49th on May 30th. Jean will also be celebrating her birthday on the same day. We have a member who is 100 plus. In fact, she will be 104 years old on Dec. 10 1995! She is our Mary Evanish. Best wishes to all! Mother of the Year dinner, at which time we honored and drank a toast to all our mohters, was held at the German Villa on May 10, 1995. 27 came and we wish to thank Fr. Krajnak for leading us in prayer. We spent an enjoyable afternoon thanks to Francine, Agatha and Agnes Serazin who planned it all. Francine and Agatha gave a reading about Mothers and we were each presented with a Rose Bud made by Agatha, Francine and Agnes Serazin. We were entertained by a guest, Angie Radick, who told our fortunes by flipping cards. A good time was had by all. Love, MARY MATOS 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Our April meeting was well-attended and was opened with a prayer by our President Josephine Janezic. The minutes were read and the financial report was given. All was approved. We were treated to a lunch by our Birthday Girls, Mici Bregant and Arlene Fritz. Thank you, it was delicious. We talked about two of our events. Members of the Year Luncheon on May 24th and our State Convention on September 17th. Congratulations, Jackie Nimmer! % m May 21 st was a very special day for a very special lady, Jackie Nimmer. She received The Slovenian Arts Council Award of Merit at U.W.M. We love you, Jackie, and we are very proud of you. After the award we were entertained by three lovely ladies from San Francisco called P.M.S., Patricia Bregant, Mary Lambert, and Sandra Noltimier, followed by goodies brought in by friends of Jackie. Meeting was closed with a prayer. Our Members of the Year luncheon at Klemmer’s was delicious. As a surprise, Josephine Janezic decided that it would be a very good idea to put all members’ names in a bag. The 1994 Mother of the Year, Rose Vodnik picked out a name, and that name was our Mother of the Year! The name picked was Josephine Strukel. Rose pinned the crown on Josephine and presented her with a bouquet of red carnations. Josephine and her husband live in Spring Hill, Florida and are here visiting family and friends. Red carnation corsages were given to each member and boutonnieres to the four men attending. Long stemmed red carnations were also given to each of the guests. I do believe everybody had a good time, inlcuding our Acting State President, Joan Yaklich and Mary Kiel from Branch 12. We wish to thank Arlene Fritz for being our delegate, representing us at the National Convention in San Francisco. We hope you had a good time, Arlene! We wish to extend our sympathy to family and friends of our member Antonia Swirkowski on the death of her husband. May his soul rest in peace. Our next project is our State Convention on September 17th at Klemmer’s. In order for this convention to be a success we need the participation of all of our members. For additional tickets please call Josephine at 545-0691 or you may call me at 871-8295. Don’t forget our ads. Patrons $2.00 each name, 1/4 page at $12.50, 1/2 page $25.00, and a whole page at $50.00. Our next meeting will be on June 28th at 12 noon in the Gold Room at St. John Evangelist Church. Hoping to see you there. ANNE E. KONCZAL, Reporter NO. 50, CLEVELAND, OH Our picnic is scheduled for Sept. 27. A grand time was had by all who attended the “Mother of the Year Luncheon” at Sterle ’s on May 11th, especially Evelyn Pipoly, the guest of honor. Three 50-year members have been congratulated. They are Pauline Siefert, Anna Glavic, and Josephine Justine. Ann Cemes is to become a Great Grandma to triplets in November. Our gracious and supportive member, Millie Petrovič is in Lake County West Hospital, the intensive care unit. We miss you, Millie. Get well also to Josephine Arko. Relunctantly we must announce the death of Mary Vadnal’s husband Frank, a well-known polka musician who has been entered in the Polka Hall of Fame. Our sincere condolences to you and your family, Mary. Nettie Leslie has passed away. She was a 50-year member. Sincere condolences to her sisters, Christine Duche and Rose Pujzdar, both members, and to her husband, Henry and the family. Jane Berkopec’s daughter, Sister Elaine of the Ursuline Academy Order, celebrated her 25th anniversary mass and reception as a nun recently. The National Convention was enjoyed by our President, Ann Tercek and Vice President, Mary Miller. Many changes were introduced at the meetings which will be explained at our next meeting. The Winter gals have been and will be doing interesting traveling for this season, and we want to congratulate our President Ann Tercek and her husband , Charles on their recent 20th Wedding Anniversary. That’s it folks, briefly put! Nasvidenje! VI MORAVCHEK NO. 54, WARREN, OH Our Mother-Daughter Luncheon for May was cancelled because our president, Jo Kassan had been hospitalized for over a month and then had foot surgery and is slowly recuperating at home. We are planning our luncheon for June 21st and hope to be able to report on it later. Mayme Sporich was hospitalized and we hope she is doing better. Having back surgery today is Elsie Shine and we all send our prayers to them for a speedy recovery. Congratulations to newlyweds, member Pat Ponikvar and Dr. Mark Van Gunten who were married in April in Columbia, S.C. She was a most beautiful bride, not braggin’ of course, since she’s my daughter! We all had a lovely time and wish them the best. Congratulations also to Mary Diana’s daughter, Cathy Diana, who was married to Don Wigleuz in May in Youngstown. Our best wishes to them also. To those vacationers, safe traveling and have a wonderful summer. We’ll meet again in September for our fall meeting, Sept. 20th at the Elks on Rt. 422, noon. JOANNE PONIKVAR NO. 55, GIRARD, OH June 1995 Our Mother-Daughter banquet was a beautiful event. Thanks ladies for coming! We do have some sad news. Our beloved member, Mary Macek, died on April 11. Mary had been one of our Branch’s secretary-treasurers. May she rest in peace. Congratulations to my niece, Andrea, and my nephew, Mark, for their terrific performance in Ursuline High School’s Play, “The King and I.” This month, our beloved mother, Milka Kregar, will be celebrating her 70th birthday. Believe me, she is 70 years young!! Who else do you know at the age of 70 that can ride her bike with no hands!! Mama has been an inspiration to my sisters and me. She is a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a super grandmother to her nine grandchildren! This month’s edition is dedicated to you. Mama! Here’s a special poem for you: Mama Mama, naša Mama, zlata, kam so leta pohitela? Ko smo bile male punčke, prelepe pesmice si nam zapela. Tisti dnevi so vedno v spominu, oj kako je luštno bilo, Dan za dnevom si skrbela da, imele smo se lepo. Prvo besedo si slišala ti, ko si nas Slovensko učila, Prelepe spomine Tebi vedno obudi, ker “Mama” je prva beseda bila. Videla si naše prve korake ko hodile smo sem in tja, Ponosna si bila ker smo znale biti pridne, drugod’ in doma. Vsaka od nas ima prekrasne spomine na tiste mladostne dni. Vse najboljše, draga Mama, Ti kličejo, Maria, Anka, Marta in Dori. Our June birthdays: Seth Gordon, Anna Zagger, Marian Cigolle, Milka Kregar. July Birthdays: Stephanie Gordon, Maria Selak-our President, Anna Kalan, and Nancy Dombrosky. September Birthdays: Nettie Juvančič. July-August, 1995 We have lots of news to report in this issue! Rose Juvancic’s grandson. Steve Forde, a Junior at Ursuline High School, was selected to attend the Journalist Contest in Washington, D.C. during the week of April 18, 1995. Though he was busy writing papers, he did get a chance to see some of the sites of D.C. Steve also placed 2nd at the Press Day competition at Youngstown State University. Congratulations Steve! Rose and her husband Richard travelled to Marietta, Ohio to visit their daughter, Joyce Hes-lop’s family. Their granddaughter, Jenna, celebrated her 10th birthday, while her sister Jacqueline, did a fantastic performance in her school operetta, “Tom Sawyer.” Joan Twaddle’s granddaughter, Sheree, visited her grandparents from Idaho. She stayed for a 1 month visit during which time they went to Cedar Point, Geauga Lake, and COSI in Columbus, Ohio. Congratulations to Joan and her husband who re- cently celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary. May God bless you both with many more years of happiness!! My parents, Frank and Milka Kregar celebrated their 46th Wedding anniversary on Aug. 2. Bog vaju blagoslovi, Očka in Mama! Our president, Maria Selak and her husband, Gus celebrated their 20th Anniversary on Aug. 9! May God Bless both couples! Virginia Bestic’s grandson, Michael Boeing celebrated his 1st Communion in Indianapolis. Helene Zupan visited her daughter and her family in Buffalo, New York. Sophie Kren has a new great granddaughter, Ivy Tate. Sophie is also very proud of her grandson, Brian Kren, who was accepted to Beta Club at Girard High School. Well, ladies, this is the kind of news that 1 enjoy reporting. Please keep the information coming to me. Thought for this issue: “The moments when you have really lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love. ” Henry Drummond Nasvidenje, DORI KREGAR NO. 56, HIBBING, MN On April 4, No. 56 members held a meeting at First Ave. Apt. at 7:30 p.m. Vice Pres. Ann Satovich presided over the meeting in the absence of Pres. Carlson. Roll call was read and minutes of last meeting were approved. Liz read a card from Mary Sickich on the loss of her brother, Frank. Ann Satovich and Mary Massich both had surgeries in recent months and both ladies are doing fine. On May 2nd we had our Mother’s Day dinner at the Open Pit, the same night as our meeting. Mary Sickich made a motion that the club give each member at the dinner $5.00 as was done at our Christmas party. It was seconded by Annie Voiovich. Mary Micheletti, our treasurer will handle this. Liz Spolar mentioned that a movie will be shown about priests and asked that each member call a number given on TV to object to the showing. Ann Voiovich stated she was going to the nursing home to visit Amelia Domen and Mary Drobnik. Birthdays for April were recognized. Jackpot member was picked by Agnes Barkic; she picked her own number. Members who are ill at the present time: Pep Erickson, Edith Jones and Mary Martinich. Ann Satovich closed the meeting with prayer. A delicious lunch was served by Ann Satovich, Agnes Barkis and Fran Tobey. Prizes for games won were: Milena Koheler, Bunko, Jenobert, Cannasta and Liz Spolar, 500. Respectfully submitted, MILENA KOHELER ***** Hibbing held their Mother’s Day dinner at Open Pit Supper Club May 2, 1995 the same night as our regular meeting. Prayers led by Pres. Carlson opened our meeting. Roll call read - most members were present. In old business: there was a meeting in Virginia and it was discussed Biwabik will hold the Minnesota Convention on Sept. 10, 1995. Gilbert has merged with Biwabik; dues will be raised. In new business: flowers for Mother’s Day will be delivered to our shut-in members. Pep Erickson and Jen Obert will deliver the flowers. Mary Massich attended the National Convention in San Francisco in May. Mass for our deceased members and Oklahoma tragedy will be held Nov. 12, 1995 at Blessed Sacrament Church at 11 o’clock Mass. Motion was made and seconded to pay bills. Birthdays for May, June, July and August were recognized as we are not meeting in the summer months. Next meeting will be held Sept. 5, 1995; the Convention will follow. No further discussion. Meeting closed with prayer. Have a Happy Summer, everyone. Sincerely submitted, EDITH JONES NO. 57, NILES, OH Our first meeting of this year was in March and we had a very good turnout; but at our April meeting we had a very small turnout due to vacations and other plans. We opened the meeting with our minutes and secretary reports read. We completed our plans for our Mothers Day luncheon when we honored all our mothers. Our hostesses for April were Elizabeth Havaich and Helen Misel. We closed our meeting with a prayer and then enjoyed our lunch. • After lunch we played a few games winning prizes which our hostesses brought in. We really enjoyed the afternoon. On May 9th we met for our “Mother’s Day” Luncheon with only 15 members present. In the absence of our President and Vice President we dispensed with our meeting; as we had no new news to report. We had a very nice lunch served to us and later had a gift exchange as we honored all the mothers. We played a few games for an afternoon of fun. We celebrated birthdays for the month of May, which were Jane Lozar, Marge Mollica and Frances Yerman. We all miss Frances Yerman as she is in the Retirement Center in Florida. Last month one of our oldest members celebrated her birthday, Mary Opalka. Our next meeting was to be held on June 13th with Mary Visnosky and Frances Stanec as hostesses. Helen Misel and Elizabeth Havaich made lovely favors for our Mothers Day Luncheon which we all appreciated very much. We hoped to see more members out in June as the weather is always nice. Take care and God Bless you all. FRANCES STANEC NO. 67, BESSEMER, PA No meeting since Feb. 12th. Nine ladies and I attended and they promised they would come up with something to keep our lodge together. Still waiting. We can meet every 4 or 6 months -it is up to you, ladies! Will you come? Maybe each one of you can bring one of our elders to the meeting as they don’t get out much if they don’t have a way. I know you are busy - we seem to see each other at weddings and funerals at least. I want to let you know that we have 29 ladies left in our lodge. Since the last meeting, Helen Snezic, a member of our Branch, died on April 11th. Bom in Martins Ferry, Ohio to Eli and Mary Fiberman Kogut. Her husband, Larry, preceded her in death. Survivors include four daughters, Priscilla Toman of Ellwood City, Marilyn Argiro of New Castle, Mary Jane Pusnik of Charlotte, NC and Gayle Kozina of Niagara Falls, Ont. A sister, Virginia, of Lan-tana, FL and a brother from Martins Ferry also survive along with 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Also preceding her in death were two brothers, Joseph and Adolph and three sisters, Josephine Kulewicz, Blanche Moose, Ann Skuta. Services were conducted by Rev. Jack Fitzgerald and burial was at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, beside her husband. Amelia Bryan’s sister, Valeria M. Spinic passed away last October. We all wish to extend our condolences to the families. May God bless them and grant them eternal peace. Shut-in and sick: Lube Vlah and John were in and out of the hospital. They are getting on with real good health. Nada was home sick, Dennie Mehocic was in and out of the hospital before I knew it. Sorry to hear she is moving to Oregon, but, is still going to belong to our lodge. Good luck and good health be with you, Dennie, always. Katherine Susany is real sick and in bed at home. Joe, her husband, is taking care of her. He is carrying a cross - he is a devoted husband. God bless him and keep him in good health to carry on. Want to thank the ladies who paid their dues and the ones that are not paid up, please, because we are paying your dues for you and that is why we do not have any extra month. Well, Easter was here and gone, Mother’s Day also, and next is July 4th. Have a happy one! Also, Happy Birthday and Anniversary to everyone who is celebrating. All I can say is, visit the sick or send a card telling them you still think of them. It will mean a lot. God bless every one. MARY PERCIC NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH All the familiar sayings come to mind as this article is put together — “June is busting out all over,” “Spring has sprung,” “Oh What a Beautiful Morning,” “April showers bring May flowers,” they all apply this sunny morning. A sure sign of spring with Branch 73 is our annual celebration of our beginning with Ženske Zveze. Our anniversary mass was held on April 23rd at St. Jude’s Church, the home parish of so many of our members, living and deceased. Father Senger, a young Franciscan priest, congratulated us, wished us well and encouraged us to continue. After mass, we enjoyed the Pancake Breakfast sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Many of our members were in attendance as well as their family members, and it was nice to see members of our sister branches (Nos. 42 and 47) participating with us. Next year is a BIG one, as we look forward to marking sixty years. Do as I do, on the last page of your calendar make a notation, April, 1996, No. 73 is 60 years old. Congratulations to Vera and Chuck Kozak on their 44th wedding anniversary. And if you happened to see Vera’s name in the “Deceased” column in ZARJA, rest assured she is doing well. She has had some ills but has managed to keep herself active . We hope the anniversary day was a good one for both of you. Our lone traveler reported was Mary Ann Hlavaty who spent some time in Texas visiting her daughter who suffers MS and at the same time enjoying her three young grandchildren. Our prayers are with your daughter, Mary Ann, and we are glad you had a safe journey. Our June meeting will end our monthly meetings. Plans for our cook-out are incomplete at this writing, we will get word to all of you when the date and time are set. Please make plans now to join us at our meetings when we resume in September. In the meantime, did you meet the deadline with your dues? And, have you sent in your Cardless Card Party donation? Your cooperation in both is deeply appreciated. Before you read this column, the Convention in San Francisco will be only a memory. We will be anxious to share our experiences with you and report to you all the details of the meetings. Our meeting is scheduled for June 5th, if ZARJA reaches you in time, please join us. Respectfully submitted: EVELYN A. MAJERCIK NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL Our May meeting opened with the usual candle-lighting ceremony honoring the Blessed Virgin and in memory of our deceased members. President Millie James performed the ceremony and also read a lovely mother’s day greeting. She thanked everybody for their earnest endeavors for our branch. I have to tell you all that there is such a unique closeness and concern among our members. Reports were read by Marge Krmpo-tic and new secretary, Marie Maras. Our members reported that Millie Poropat was at a recent affair and looked fabulous! She wrote to Dolores Hennelly regarding her travels, visiting family and extends greetings to all! Mary Barcevac also said “Hello” from Texas. Member Mary Zelenika had extensive eye surgery and then had additional corrective work done. She is a strong one - that Maria -! We are with you all the way! Marge Simunich had hand work done and Mary Jurko took a tumble and broke her wrist. This was our first afternoon meeting and so far so good, according to present members. We were planning a pizza party in June. Meetings will begin again in September. Marie Krmpotic and Mollie Mach were split-the-pot members. Hostesses were Helen Nowicki, Helen Price and Mollie Mach. September 2nd will be our next meeting date at 1:30 in the afternoon. Most important issue settled is that the members not paid up by the September meeting will be dropped from the books! Secretary Dolores Hennelly does such a terrific job - she claims that the branch needs to weed out whoever is no longer interested in our branch. This must be true with all the branches - just those few irresponsible members! We finalized our plans for the II-linois-Indiana Convention - it will be Oct. 1st at Sacred Heart Church Hall at 8:30 a.m. for coffee and President, Millie James welcomed aunt Ann Loncar who has missed a few meetings. We had a fun session and would love to have all the “no-shows” join us in September. MARIE MARAS NO. 102, WILLARD, WI Spring has finally sprung! With all the good rains we have just had, and warmer weather, everything will grow much faster - especially the grass. The National Convention is over. It was a busy time. Do hope all arrived home safely. It was so nice to see the many friends that we met at previous conventions and now we made more! Everything was so well organized by Vice President, Beverly Jackson and her sister, Barbara Chiodo, also with Michelle Twers who was in charge of all the enjoyable tours. Not a thing was left undone and they were always on hand to be sure everything went as planned, and it did! So many, many thanks to all of you ladies for doing such a wonderful job. The climax of these conventions is always the Solemn Mass with that beautiful singing to close the 3 day sessions. This again was something Beverly and Barbara had to work very hard at and begged to get permission at Notre Dame des Victoires church to have this mass said for us. It was nearby, a French parish, and within walking distance. The Slovenian church was closed down a year ago by their Bishop, but their Slovenian choir did sing beautifully for this occasion. It was an honor to walk in the procession from the hotel to the church, about 3 long blocks away, but only one block up hill! Those dressed in Slovenian costumes were in the lead singing “Češčena si, Marija,” as we arrived at the front of this beautiful church. Fr. Chris Gostečnik of Chicago celebrated the Mass and 8 attending delegates were selected to read petitions while two others did the readings. After mass, three huge buses took everyone to the Slovenian Hall on Kranjski Hrib, as it was called by the early Slovenian settlers of years gone by. Here we enjoyed our last banquet together which included the installation of the new officers of our SWU. Their names will be listed on other pages of ZARJA, I’m sure. I must mention that one member of the above-mentioned choir is a young lady who also entertained us at the Welcome Banquet with a variety of songs, accompanied by a young man, Steve Bailey, at the piano. She is Diana Fir, a member of Br. 13 of San Francisco and a former Scholarship Winner. In her clear, strong soprano voice, she did a beautiful job singing songs that were a delight to hear, just excellent. All too soon it was time to say goodbye to our many new friends, and get ready to board our flights back to “home sweet home,” with many nice memories of San Francisco and the wonderful people that live there. Back home now with a busy summer ahead we must find a date to honor our Mother of the Year. She said she doesn’t mind if it won’t be until November! But, we will surely try to do this sooner! In July, we have the two largest events in our community, the Polka Fest on July 14-15-16 and the Slovenian Družba Membership Picnic on July 30th. The last Sunday of August is always the day of our big Parish Chicken Dinner with all the trimmings. We do manage to keep very busy. Best wishes to all our new friends, far and wide! MARY STAUT, Reporter NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C. On April 2, 1995, we convened for a meeting chaired by president, Jill Augustine. We had an exceptionally good attendance. The productive discussion revolved around preparations for the May Mother’s Day program and for other activities scheduled for later this year. This is an appropriate time to once again recognize the lovely ladies who comprise our membership for their cooperation when things need to be done. This meeting was an example fo the unity of the ladies who pitched in to help in a specific project. Thank you ladies; with group effort, we get things done. Finally, thanks to our hostesses at this meeting, Molly Thomas and Mary Bodling, for the delicious pastries and coffee. ***** On Sunday, May 7, Branch 103 once again hosted the annual Mother’s Day program to honor our “Mother of the Year”, Mary Bodling. The weather was made-to-order for this very special event, and it was a delight to welcome so many guests from the Slovene community. This was the first event which was presided over by our new president, Jill Augustine. She was outstanding as the emcee as she introduced Mary Bodling the honored Mother of the Year, summarizing events in Mary’s life, how she discovered and became a member of Branch 103, and finally relating her talents as an artist. One of Mary’s lovely paintings was included in the 1994 SWU Calendar entitled “Pears — 1989”. Those who received that calendar may recall seeing that lovely painting. We are indeed proud of her, as well as the other talented individuals in our Branch. The program was opened with the children’s procession and crowning of the Blessed Virgin. The program followed. The young children were outstanding in their performances with songs, recitations, and musical numbers. These youngsters are to be congratulated for their courageousness in performing so beautifully, and for their obvious talents. Molly Thomas, Jane Bevec, and Mara Chokel sang “Na Planinca Sončice Sije” — the harmony of their voices was beautiful; thank you ladies. The Slovenian Choral Group was lovely as ever with selections of Slovenian Folk songs. I do believe the choir is getting bigger; we always appreciate hearing their beautiful renditions. A mere thank you seems so inadequate for everyone who assisted in making this an outstanding program. A big thank-you also the ladies who furnished the food for the buffet; and, last but not least, a big thank-you to our president, Jill Augustine, for her outstanding job in putting things together and her introductions. ***** On May 17, 1995 I was honored to be the Branch 103 delegate to the SWU National Convention in San Francisco, California. This was indeed a well-organized convention. The Hospitality Suite was open every morning for coffee and snacks. The arts and crafts donated by members were displayed and sold rapidly. Thanks to Branch 103 member Mary Lou Terselic for donating a lovely hand-made decorator’s pillow which she made -- it was sold the first day! Also, thanks to Mary Lou for the lovely etched and decorated decorator’s box which she donated— that, too, was sold immediately. Jill Augustine donated her hand-made and designed apron which also disappeared very soon. We are proud of our talented Branch 103 members, and once again thank-you for your efforts. The productive Convention sessions were held in the mornings, affording ample time to board buses for the tours scheduled for each day. The tours were well planned and everyone seemed to enjoy them as much as I did. I am especially grateful to Br. 103 president Jill Augustine, and vice president Nika Kovacic who accompanied me; they were great in assisting Br. 103 member Irene Odorizzi, our National Heritage Director, in setting up the Heritage table and accepting donations for Heritage. The donators were rewarded by being offered cute baskets filled with miscellaneous articles — all donated by Irene. Also, the table displayed loose leaf books prepared by Matilda Ausich. Articles of Br. 103 were cut out of the ZARJAS which she saved from the beginning of Branch 103. One volume contained Br. 103 articles; another was the Heritage volume with articles written by Irene Odorizzi; two volumes contained the Immigration stories written by Irene Odorizzi. Another volume on display was prepared by Br. 103 member Sabina Bartol. This volume contained histories of all SWU Branches which Irene Odorizzi spent long hours and days in preparing for publication. Many branches have not as yet submitted their histories to Irene, and this might be an incentive for us to make this a priority. What a great treasure for the SWU National Archives! A big thank-you to Barbara Chiodo, Branch 13, San Francisco, CA, the Convention coordinator, for her outstanding efforts. Also thanks to all those who assisted her — you were great! Wishing all SWU members, friends and family a safe and happy summer. Best wishes, MATILDA AUSICH, Ttiirn HERITAGE Br. 105 members are good at crafts! From left to right, Pat Hostnik, Yola Roel, Anna Klančnik, Sharon Wysocky and President, Kathleen Emerson. They made these beautiful wreaths at their April meeting. NO. 105, DETROIT, MI On April 1, 1995, fifteen members attended our regular monthly meeting. We received a report on our St. Patrick’s Day Slovenian Style Dance which was rather disappointing. While we did not lose money, we did not make as much as we had in the past. Suggestions were made regarding the type of refreshments to serve next year. At the conclusion of the business meeting, the floor was turned over to member, Sharon Wysocky who instructed us in the making of grapevine wreaths as spring decorations. While some of the members are very good at “crafts”, some of us, including the writer, need a lot of assistance. Sharon teaches crafts at a local store and was able to help the members fashion some beautiful wreaths. Everyone left with a wonderful feeling of accomplishment. Since Mary Ann Yemec, who suggested this activity was unable to attend due to back problems, Valeria Jacklich, with Sharon’s assistance, made one for her which was delivered by Anna Klančnik. Our regular meetings are over until September. The Mother of the Year luncheon honoring Frances Adamic was held on May 13th at the L-Bow Room restaurant in Warren. Our annual picnic will be held on June 24th at Council Park in Warren. All members, daughters, grandchildren and prospective members are invited to this fun filled event. We will meet at the park at noon and after a brief meeting, the fun will begin. For additional information call me at (810) 751-0513. Our sincere sympathies to Patricia Wiater on the loss of her Father and to Barbara and Brandy Baloh on the loss of their Father in Law and Grandfather, and to Ann McGee on the untimely loss of her son, Jack. On our sick list are Katherine Mihelič, Ann Pobanz and Mary Jamšek. In nursing homes are Aileen Wysocky, Frances Hostnik and Kathryn Petrich. To all of you our prayers and wishes for better health. Hoping to see many of you at the National Convention in San Francisco. PATRICIA ADAMIC 4 SINCERE THANK YOU TO OlIR “KEEP OUR CONNECTION!” CONTRIBUTORS A SINCERE THANK YOU to our “Keep Our Connection” contributors listed according to our seven regions for April and May, 1995: California-Oregon-Washington Memory Rose Novak from daughter Rosemary Mlaker (100), Fontana, CA $20.00 Colorado-Kansas-Missouri Memory Ann Anzick from Helen and Thomas Skerl (3), Pueblo, CO 20.00 Branch No. 38, Chisholm, MN 15.00 Memory of Frances Sherek from Tony and Anne Orazem (35), Chisholm, MN 5.00 165.00 450.25 Ohio-Michigan Memory of Stanley Baloch from family and friends via daughter-in-law Barbara Baloh (105) Detroit, MI $300.00 Slovenian Style St. Patrick’s Day Dance Branch No. 105, Detroit, MI 40.25 j25 oo Josephine Misic (50), Cleveland, OH 80.00 Memory Carol Piccirello (50), Cleveland, OH from Ann Tercek 20.00 2o oo Mary Miller (50) Cleveland, OH 10.00 20.00 20.00 Pennsylvania-New York-Washington, D.C. 5.00 Pauline Caldwell (103), Sterline, VA $50.00 5.00 Loving memory Mary Koshier (93), Brooklyn, ------------ 95.00 New York from daughter Marie Konchan, Tuckerton, NJ 25.00 $100.00 75 00 25.00 Total for two months $ 825.25 Previous Total 6,501.35 Total to date (55 months) $6,326.60 20.00 Note: $340.25 received during convention. Illinois-Indiana Branch No. 85, DePue, IL Memory of Anton and Mary Jermence from daughters Mary and Muriel Jermence (85), DePue, IL Carita Girman (20), Indianapolis, IN Jo and Walter Lustik (20), Joliet, IL Mary Ann Brunner (24), LaSalle, IL Josephine Grabowski (24), LaSalle, IL Minnesota and Wisconsin Branch No. 35, Aurora, MN Branch No. 39,. Biwabik, MN Memory of Veronica Schwarts (56) from daughter Fritzie Furlong (56) Menominie, WI ] DOPISI [ ŠT. 39, BIWABIK, MN Aprilska seja naše podružnice je bila zelo lepo obiskana, saj se je te seje udeležilo kar 19 članic. Zato smo zmogle napraviti več zelo vaznih postavk in odločitev za nase delo čez leto. Naslednje večje srečanje je bilo za našo podružnico že 7. maja za kosila “Materinskega dne" v Holiday Inn na Evelethu. Ob jej priliki je bila tudi počaščena “Žena tega leta". Že zjutraj pa smo se vse zbrale v cerkvi za 9. sv. mašo, na to nedeljo so tudi prvi obhajanci imeli “svoj veliki dan". Delo za našo jesensko državno konvencijo, ki bo na Biwabiku je že v polnem zamahu. Komitej treh zelo požrtvovalnih članic je pripravil listo, kjer so označena vsa dela, ki bodo morala biti tedaj izvršena. Kathy Siskar, Eleanor Indihar in Denise Erchul so prepričane, da ne bo v tem težav in da bodo vse, ki zmorejo priti takrat tudi pridno sodelovale in razvile svoje talente v obilni meri. Prilike je dovolj za eno ali drugo delo. Vse tiste, ki so bile na seji so se že odločile, druge pa upamo, da se bodo kmalu. Naša dolgoletna članica Anne Purkat je slavila 7. aprila svoj 93. rojstni dan. Ker ni mogla biti z nami, smo ji čestitale kar “na uho" in je bila gotovo vesela te lepe pozornosti. Še na lepa in zdrava leta, Mrs. Purkat! Predsednica Jean je pred kratkim sprejela povabilo podpreds. Kathy Šiskar in je njenemu razredu v “Community College” na Virginiji govorila o “Mednarodnih odnosih". Povdarila je tu važnost vzgoje in rasti v družini staršev, ki so prišli iz Slovenije v Evropi in kako velike vrednote so prinesli s seboj, da so leta in leta ustvarjali boljši svet v novi deželi Ameriki. Ohranjali so svoje etnične tradicije predvsem v verskem okolju, v svojem trdem delu za blagostanje, veselje do glasbe in seveda do posebnih delikacij v hrani na splošno. Mimo tega pa so vedno želeli, da bi njih otroci mogli imeti veliko več izobrazbe, kot so jo sami mogli zadobiti in jim je tudi us- pelo. Preds. Jean ima velik talent v predstavljanju in debati in je bila gotovo tej skupini mladih ljudi velik doprinos razlage etnične skupnosti in življenja, ki je na našem Železnem Okrožju tukaj v Minnesoti neizogibno. Kot je potem pripomnila učiteljica Kathy, da je bil njen razred poln entusijasma in sedaj bolje razume slovensko etično skupnost. Za veliko delo, ki smo ga tu opravile, so nam postregle pridne članice z okusnim desertom. To je bila Mary Suhadolc s svojo hčerko in mladinsko članico Leah. Še posebno pozornost pa je napravilo darilo Mary Suhadolc v obliki lepe košarice iz blaga, katero je zadela srečna mladinska članica, Jaime Siskar. Predlagano je bilo, da spet naročimo še 20 “cook books” v prodajo. Predno pa bo to natisnjeno v Zarji, se bodo naše članice in de-legatinje že vrnile iz San Francisca in prinesle kar najlepše vtise iz konvencije in potovanja po sončni Kaliforniji. Vsem želimo lepe in toplejše pomladne dni. ANNE TUSHAR NflŠfl SLDUEMSKfl DEDIŠČINA ^ BARAGA Začetki Katoliške Cerkve v Ameriki I K \\< I NKI.K VIII. BARAGA APOSTOLSKI VIKAR V SAULTU SAINTE MARIE DRUGIČ V DOMOVINI (1853- 1854) Za svoj apostolski vikariat je Baraga nujno potreboval še vsaj deset duhovnikov, stanovanj in pohištva zanje, v Saultu stolnico in škofijski dvorec, več drugih cerkva z vsem potrebnim, več šol in učiteljev. In še mnogo drugega. Zato se je odločil, da takoj iz Cincinnatija gre v Evropo po duhovnike, denar in cerkvene potrebščine. Spotoma se je hotel tudi pokloniti papežu. 15. novembra 1853 je zapustil Cincinnati in se je 26. novembra odpeljal iz New Yorka s parnikom Pacific (Pšifik). Vozil se je deset dni in se izkrcal v Liverpoolu v Angliji, kakor se je na prvem potovanju proti Evropi. Iz Liverpoola ni imel več daleč do Dublina (D&blina), glavnega mesta Irske, kjer je za svoje irske rudarje želel dobiti duhovnika. Dublinski nadškof-primas Cullen (K&len) ga je gostoljubno sprejel in mu rad dovolil, da je 10. decembra zvečer pridigal v stolnici o svojih misijonih. Poslušalci so po pridigi zložili ve^o vsoto zanje. Tudi nadškof in duhovniki. Za dublinski dnevnik je Baraga napisal povabilo duhovnikom, da bi se kateri priglasil za njegov apostolski vikariat. Priglasil se je Lavrencij Dunne (D&ne) iz Dublina, ki je pet let mis-ijonaril med črnci Kafri v južni Afriki. Bil je nekoliko šibkega zdravja. Baraga ga je vzel s seboj v Pariz, da se dobro nauči francoščine. V Parizu je šel v zavod sv. Sulpicija, kjer je bilo semenišče za zunanje misijone. Ponudila sta se mu dva bogoslovca; ker sta pa bila že določena za misijone v Indiji, ju ni sprejel. Potem je sklical vse bogoslovce in s predsedniškega mesta motril njihove obraze. Oči so mu obstale na bogoslovcu krepke postave in mirnih, razumnih in odločnih potez. Bil je to Martin Fuchs (Fuhs), pruski Nemec, bivši pruski oficir, človek železnega zdravja, zelo nadarjen, izvrsten govornik. V Ameriki se je podpisoval Fox (Foks). Tudi on je že bil določen za Indijo, a ga je Baraga želel imeti, ker je že znal nemško in francosko. Poklical ga je v sobo, kjer sta se domenila. Fox je potem zapisal v dnevnik: "Od škofa Barage sem odšel kot od najboljšega in najbolj obzirnega očeta." Ker ni znal angleškega, ga je Baraga poslal v dublinsko semenišče. Iz Pariza se je peljal v Munchen (Minhen), pre-stolico Bavarske. Kralj Ludovik ga je povabil na obed. Ludovikovo misijonsko društvo mu je obljubilo 2000 renskih goldinarjev podpore. V Linču je obiskal škofa Rudigierja (Ridigierja), znanega borca v nemškem kulturnem boju. Cilj potovanja je bil Baragi Dunaj, sedež Leopol-dinine ustanove. Nastanil se je pri rojaku Jerneju Vidmarju, ravnatelju Avguštinčja (višjega duhovniškega vzgojevališča), ki je pozneje postal ljubljanski škof. Sel se je poklonit svojemu znancu iz Hofbauerjeve šole, nadškofu-kardinalu Rauscherju, novemu predsedniku Leopoldinine ustanove, in njenim odbornikom. Dne 23. januarja jim je izročil spomenico o svojem apostolskem vikariatu in njegovih kričečih potrebah. Že samo stolnica v Saultu, ki naj bi bila iz opeke in vsaj 30 m dolga, 15 m široka in 10 m visoka, bi stala do 10.000 dolarjev. Dne 26. januarja se je po 17-ih letih spet pripeljal v Ljubljano. Tisti dan je zapisala Zgodnja Danica: “Ravno smo zvedeli, da bodo danes popoldne ob petih naš rojak, prečastiti g. škof Friderik Baraga po železnici prišli z Dunaja v Ljubljano.” Šel je pozdravit škofa Wolfa. Drugo jutro ob petih je maševal v stolnici pri oltarju sv. Rešnjega Telesa, kjer je pred 30-imi leti imel, tudi ob petih zjutraj, svojo novo mašo. Kaj vse je doživel od tistega davnega jutra! Obiskal je svojega botra in vzgojitelja dr. Jurija Dolinarja, ki je še vedno živel, osamel in popolnoma slep. Mnogo sta si imela povedati. Profesor Dolinar je umrl štiri leta nato, 21. oktobra 1858, star 94 let. Z ženo in s hčerko Anico počiva v istem grobu. Ob njegovi smrti je Zgodnja Danica omenila tudi to, da je bil velik prijatelj misijonov. K darovom, ki jih je Amalija Gressl pošiljala bratu v Ameriko, je tudi on prispeval, kolikor je s svojo pokojnino mogel. Mnogo je molil za misijone svojega birmanca, gojenca in učenca Friderika, ki ga je zmerom imel tako rad. Dobro se zavedajmo, da bi brez profesorja Dolinarja Slovenci ne imeli kaplana in nabožnega pisatelja Barage, Indijanci in sploh Severno-amerikanci pa ne misijonarja in škofa Friderika Barage. Ko so Baragi umrli starši, gaje vzgajal Dolinar. 29. januarja, na dan sv. Frančiška Šaleškega, je škof Baraga pred svojo slovesno mašo v stolnici pridigal o grehu. Pridigal je nemško, ker je nedeliska pridiga pred deseto mašo morala biti nemška; škof Jeglič je leta 1918 vpeljal slovensko. - Zgodnja Danica je pripomnila k Baragovi pridigi: “Kako jih Ljubljančani čislajo, je posebno pokazala v nedeljo škofijska cerkev, ki je bila pri njih pridigi natlačena s poslušalci iz vseh stanov." Danica potem slavi Baragove zasluge za indijansko slovstvo. Po zmoti trdi, da ima deset duhovnikov v škofiji. Vabi duhovnike in bogoslovce, naj jih nekaj gre z njim v Ameriko. Imenuje ga "biser v Cerkvi Kristusovi." Prosi za denarno podporo za njegove misijone in obljublja, da bi prinašala njihova imena. Prispevki so bili pa znatno manjši kakor prispevki za Knobleharjev afriški misijon. To je razumljivo, ker je bil afriški misijon Luki Jeranu, uredniku Zgodnje Danice, bolj pri srcu, saj je dvakrat poskušal iti za Knobleharjem. V 6. številki je Danica prinesla sonet Matevža Hladnika v pozdrav Baragi, ki ga imenuje “najmilejšo zvezdo obnebja Slovenije", ki "se je dvignila med neznabogov roje". I “FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART” DAVY’S COLUMN Feeder Patrol Somewhere within the neighborhood a lawn is being mowed. Every now and then a jogger or bicyclist passes the house. There’s a slight breeze which makes the sun bearable and carries the waft of bar-b-que smells. If you happen to look in my backyard, you’ll see a leash stretched to its farthest point. At its end, stretched out on his side, with his head arced back is my Schnauzer. He is completely motionless. Despite his totally limp, relaxed position, he’s completely alert and aware of his surroundings. For people it’a holiday, but to Mr. Toto it’s just another day of feeder patrol. Approximately five feet from his chosen position is a small Crabapple tree with a feeeder in its branches. As soon as a bird larger than a robin lights on the feeder, Mr. Toto is on his feet sounding the alarm. The sudden commotion causes the frightened, unwelcomed visitor to take flight. That is unless it’s his arch menace, the Morning Dove. The Morning Dove has spent many an hour testing and measuring Mr. Toto’s boundaries. He knows exactly to which blades of grass Mr. Toto can pass. Morning Dove also knows he’s safe on the clothes poles, telephone wires and branches of the Crabapple tree. When startled from Mr. Toto’s sudden spring to life, the Morning Dove usually just flies to the clothes poles or the branches of the Crabapple, just far and high enough to ensure Mr. Toto’s limits are secure. On one particular day, someone in the area was feeling extremely festive and set off firecrackers. This made Mr. Toto very nervous and apprehensive. 1 was on the patio and moved him closer to me. From his new position, the Crabapple tree was accessible. Not seeing him anywhere by the garage, the Morning Dove decided to make his move. Boldly, he must have thought the coast was clear and waddled across the yard to the area under the feeder, where he began to munch on the seed that had been pushed out of the feeder. Mr. Toto was preoccupied with sniffing the roses along the house. Suddenly, he spotted the Morning Dove and tore after him like a lighted cannon ball! Startled, the bird couldn’t fly Mr. Toto on feeder patrol higher than a foot off the ground. The dithered dove spent the next several minutes collecting its bearings as it wandered aimlessly in the garden. Wagging his tail, Mr. Toto again took his position under the feeder. Mr. Toto was on the job. 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