NUMBER 12 DECEMBER 1997 { VOLUME 69	i
lej, zvezdice božje migljajo lepo, odprto široko je sveto nebo. Duhovi nebeški se zraja vrste, prepevajo slavo na zemljo hite.
Od neba razlega se petje lepo, človeški glasovi tako ne pojo.
O	zemlja presrečna veseli se zdaj, nocoj se ti bliža vsa milost in raj.
Obljuba predavna postala je res, Zveličarje rojen ljudem iz nebes. Pri vbogih pastircih na slamci leži, si revščino zvoli, ponižnost uči.
O	srečne dišice ki njega dobe, z nebeško tolažbo jim polniš srce. Le k njemu hitimo, saj rad nas ima, zaupno odkrijmo, mu rane srca.
DATES TO REMEMBER
ZARJA - THE DAWN
(ISSN 0044-1848)
Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703
NO. 12
DECEMBER 1997
Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress
VOL. 69
Official Publication of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze.
Published eight times per year - osemkrat na leto.
Annual Subscription for non-members, $15.00 — naročnina $15.00 letno za ne-članice.
Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926
Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL
All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu.
Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 Telephone: (773) 548-8878
Our cover song (poem) is the oldest Slovenian Christmas Carol.
National Officer:
Dec. 29 - Marge Church, Nat’l Auditor, Macedonia, OH Presidents:
Dec. 28 - Agnes Tomazin, Br. 40, Lorain, OH Dec. 31 - Josephine Kapla, Br. 81, Keewatin, MN Dec. 31 - Frances Vidmar, Br. 83, Crosby, MN
Secretaries:
Dec. 15 - Victoria Volk, Br. 99, Elmhurst, IL
Br. 89, Oglesby, IL, Commemorative Mass, 10 a.m.
Dec. 2
Dec. 3 Dec. 4
Dec. 6 Dec. 7 Dec. 7
Dec. 9
Dec. 10
Dec. 10
Dec. 11
Dec. 11 Dec. 11
Dec. 13
Dec. 14
Dec. IS Dec. 18
Dec. 19
Dec. 21
CHRISTMAS PARTIES
Br. 14 Euclid, OH at SSH, 6 p.m. Call for reservations, Vera Bajec, 481-7473 or Martha Koren, 585-4227 Br. 55 Girard, OH
Br. 12, Milwaukee, Wl, South View Woods,
12 noon
Br. 2, Chicago, IL, JUNIORS’ PARTY, 12:30 Br. 22, Bradley, IL at Family Restaurant Br. 35, Aurora, MN, with Meeting at American Legion Hall, 3 p.m.
Br. 105, Detroit, MN, 7 p.m. Call Pat Hostnik, 810-939-3891 or Doreen Preston, 810-751 -1470 Br. 40, Lorain, OH, Mountain Jack’s Rest. I p.m.
Br. 54, Warren, OH at Joanne Ponikvar’s I lome
Br. 2, Chicago, IL ADULT MEMBERS’ PARTY, Dinner 6:30 p.m.
Br. 5, Indianapolis, IN, Slov. Home, I I a.m. Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL at Gaddini’s Restaurant, noon
Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI at Klemmer’s Restaurant, 10401 W. Oklohoma, 12:30 p.m. Reservations needed. Call Josephine 545-0691 or Anne 605-0518
Br. 50, Cleveland, OH at Kristy’s Rest., 434 E. 200th St. at Tracy Ave., Euclid Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA. VFW Hall, noon Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI at Rupp’s, 6 p.m. Call Ruth, 452-8251 or Aggie, 452-8808 Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH at Piper’s III Restaurant, Broadview Hts., I p.m. Call Marge Church
Br. 20, Joliet, IL Brunch at Al’s Steak House, noon, Reservations by Dec. 14th, call Mary Kay Demich, 723-2324
ZELE FUNERAL HOMES, INC.
452 East 152nd St., Cleveland, Ohio (216) 481-3118
AMERICAN M U	Ask	About
SLOVENIAN A ,*L "KSKJ ANNUITIES"
CATHOLIC	A New
UNION	Whmm	Beginning
HOME OFFICE: 2439 GLENWOOD AVENUE • JOLIET, IL 60435 • (800) 843-5755
HAPPY ST. NICHOLAS DAY, DEC. 6TH!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN DECEMBER
115*788
JEAN KORSMAN, NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Cfrdibnai
ozuins. azazniKE
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It feels good to close out the year with such productive and memorable occasions. The Sept. and Oct. Conventions were certainly great successes. I’m so proud to attend my own Minnesota Zveza Day each year. There is such warmth and affection generated with the early morning arrival of members from the various Branches; the renewal of old friendships over coffee an’, and the socializing that preceeds the annual meeting.
This year we were fortunate to have two buses (arranged by State Pres. Charlotte Laurich) to transport us the 60 miles from the Iron Range to Duluth, so all we had to do was sit back, relax and visit. The meeting, the beautiful Mass and the prize drawings all combined to make the day so enjoyable; the highlight of our SWU year.
Bonnie Pohar Prokup, the capable young Illinois Indiana President invited me to La Salle for their Regional Convention on Oct. 6. I can honestly say 1 have never been treated with greater respect and more gracious hospitality anywhere! I was driven to the Home Office in Joliet where I was able to see all the repairs done on our Building, (the finishing touches and new carpet will be completed by this time.)
I was the house guest of Bonnie’s parents, John and Barb Pohar; and was introduced to this great extended Slovenian family: sister, Kathy, Aunts, Jo and Helen, husbands, uncles, cousins, neighbors, friends and many SWU Convention workers. I thoroughly enjoyed the 80° weather, walking in their beautiful landscaped yard and admiring the professional looking flower gardens, all done by Barb and Kathy. Friday night I sampled Deep Fried Turtle, (a first for me; and scrumptious). On Saturday morning aunt Jo drove us to Starved Rock Resort for brunch and also gave us a tour of LaSalle and Oglesby. As the rest of the family attended a funeral, Bonnie’s sister, Kathy gave me lessons in making Flancate. She is an excellent cook and experienced baker and it was the highlight of my trip, learning the fine art of mixing, prepared over 100 of the melt-in-your mouth pastries, all for the Convention coffee an’. Later we joined the aunts
and uncles at the school where they were setting up and decorating for the meeting. Everything was done with such co-operation and with such attention to the smallest detail.
Our Saturday evening was spent at Josephine Foley’s home, where we enjoyed a pot-luck dinner and got to visit with eight Branch members.
Barb and Bonnie got going at 6 a.m. on Sunday, checking on the pastry table, the raffles and the Heritage Items Table; (which had sales of over $400) and made final preparations for the meeting. I was able to meet for a few minutes with many of the members present, including two young officers of Branch 5 who had driven from Indianapolis, Indiana. The meeting agenda included talks from ZARJA EditorCorinne Leskovar and National Auditor Pat Figurowski. They answered questions and offered encouragement to their sister members. I was called on to give “some short remarks.” No easy task for me! After adjournment, we attended Mass at Resurrection Church. A banquet followed (at the Pohar cousin’s restaurant), with marvelous Slovenian cooking. I was thrilled to have my name drawn (3 times) and brought home a precious memento, a “Marija Pomagaj” candle, brought from Slovenia by President Bonnie and donated to the Convention raffle. (I also won a Stanley Broom, which I donated to Father Bernard Horzen.
It is at just such gatherings as these that we realize how much we all have in common; it is so rewarding to come face to face with a person whose name we may have read in ZARJA! We can try to answer a few questions and perhaps solve some of the problems that arise in each Branch over the year. We find that we are ONE in our hopes and dreams for the future progress of our SWU. The challenges of National Office seem less daunting when we are confronted by members “up front and personal” I hope this trip will be the start of many more such rewarding visits to the other Regions in the remaining two years of my Presidency. Thank you all for adding to my long list of memorable occasions involving the Slovenian Women’s Union of America.
NATIONAL SECRETARY - - KEEPING UP-TO-DATE
We are just about ready to put another year to rest. The point of organization we have reached for this year will all too soon be lost among what needs to be done in 1998.
We took time to advise ZARJA of all the members who did not respond to our invoices nor our second notices. After many were contacted by their branch secretaries, and still no response, we felt they had been given sufficient opportunity to remain members. If you are among those members, and would now decide to come back into the organization, we ask that you contact your branch secretary. Dues for 1996, 1997 and 1998 will have to be paid for you to be reinstated.
Likewise, if you have not paid your 1997 dues, you have until December 31st to mail them to us. NO PAST DUE notices will be sent. Second notices are costly and it is questionable as to the effort put forth. If you want to remain a member, your 1997 dues must be paid NOW. It is just that simple.
Secretaries: A directory listing all branch officers, addresses, meeting places, etc. will not be sent to you. It was decided that every branch does not require the information. Directories were prepared and copies sent to members of the National Board and Regional Presidents. Home Office and ZARJA were also furnished copies. If you need to information on any particular branch, we ask that you contact your regional president, or a board member who may live 'in your area. They will be happy to furnish whatever information you need. This new method makes updating much easier, with less copies having to be printed. When you receive your annual packet of information, immediately fill out the sheet for Branch Officers and return it to us quickly. To date, there are still branches that did not respond to the requests made in 1996 for 1997. Several branches had to be contacted for their response, some responded as late as August.
One final reminder, PLEASE, do not send any money for dues until you receive your bill. Donations to SWU, ZARJA, Heritage or Scholarship should be made in separate checks.
GONE TO HER REST
The National Board was saddened to hear of the death of our past Treasurer, Sylvia Vukodinovich. She had been in failing health and was confined to a Nursing Home. Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting Sylvia will remember her happy face, and her twinkling eyes. Though she walked with difficulty, she attended the 1995 Convention and in the time I shared with her, she certainly gave me paths to follow. She is at rest with the angels, enjoying the company of her husband to whom she was so devoted prior to his passing and together they shall rest in peace, in the sight of God. We will miss you, Sylvia, we love you, and we thank you for the many years you gave to Zenska Zveza.
Thanks you for your cooperation in 1997. May you have a very Blessed, a very Merry Christmas and the finest of New Years.
Evelyn A. Majercik, National Secretary
flCTIUITIES
NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI Meetings: 3rd Tuesday Fr. Cherne Hall
Our Oct. meeting was called to order by our President. Ruth Sheck-Ruth lead us in prayer.
Discussion on our Founders Day Mass followed. We had a mass on Nov. 6th at 12 noon at St. Cyril’s with lunch following in the Church Hall. Hoped to see many members there.
Our Dec. annual meeting and Christmas Party will be Dec. 18th, Thursday, at Rupp’s in downtown Sheboygan. Dinner will be at 6 p.m. Please call Ruth 452-8251 or Aggie 452-8808, if you plan to attend.
We will be visiting with our members who are home-bound or in Nursing Homes during the Christmas Season -let us know if you know of someone who would like a visit. We would be happy to stop in and wish them a Merry Christmas.
To all the members of Slovenian Women’s Union.
Merry Christmas and a
Holy, Happy New Year!
DOROTHY BREZONIK
NO. 1, CHICAGO, IL Meeting: 2nd Thurs. St. Stephen’s lower hall
On Oct. 5, Branches 2 and 20 bused to LaSalle for the IL-IN State Convention. We all enjoyed the ride, weather was cool but clear and Mother Nature was beginning to put on her show of all colors. It was great to see all of our members from the other branches. Our Nat’l President, Jean Korsman made the trip from Minnesota. Thanks to Br. 24 for the wonderful welcome with all those Slovenian pastries. Details of the meeting will be reported in ZARJA.
What a delicious luncheon they prepared for us. Father Horzen kept us laughing with his jokes; it is always a joy to see Father. Every person attending the convention received a gift from Br. 24. Hope all our members will be attending the next convention which is being planned by Br. 20 for their 70th anniversary in 1998.
On our return trip, Delores Puhek and Gen Puhek Buol ran a raffle -money collected will be sent to the Heritage Fund. Afterwards a Rosary was said for the sick of S.W.U. members. Thanks again Br. 24, you did a wonderful job!
Please pray for our sick members; also remember them with cards to cheer them, so they will know they are thought of.
St. Stephen’s is celebrating the 100th Year. Nov. 2, we participated in the yearly Benefit Dinner. As always, Mrs. Frances Fritz cooked a great dinner. Many thanks to everyone who worked very hard to make this event a success.
On Dec. 28, Father Vendelin will be celebrating his 50th year as a priest. Mass at 11:00 a.m. - Marija Pomagaj/ Lemont. Dinner will be served afterwards at the Slovenski Dom - Please call the Seminary or Theresa Krampač to make your reservations. Telephone at St. Mary’s (630) 257-2494 or Theresa (708) 361-1153.
“If our lot in life is better, it is important to remember those who have gone before us to pave the way."
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone.
Love,	DAISY
NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO Meeting: 1st Tues.-Sept. thru May St. Mary’s Church Hall
It doesn’t seem possible that we are already in the month of December and that preparations are being made for the Holiday parties, etc.
We resumed our meetings September 2. The usual order of business was done with 16 members present. After the meeting, refreshments were served by Hostesses Agnes Glavich and Gertrude Jordan with help by some of the members. Bingo was then played.
A trip to Cripple Creek was discussed and on October 12th, 54 people went to Cripple Creek and had a fun day. We give a great big thank you to Helen Skul and Mary (Mitzi) Drobnick for spearheading the trip.
As reported in the last issue of ZARJA, our Soup Festival and Bake
Sale put on by St. Mary’s Church, October 19 was a huge success. This venture could never have been accomplished without the wonderful leadership of our Chairperson, Dixie Sandoval, the volunteers who worked so tirelessly and the ladies who baked the delicious goodies and those who made cash donations. A great big thank you to all.
Congratulations are in order for Joe and Josephine Majestic on their 50th wedding anniversary. They were married Sept. 10, 1947.
Let’s remember in our prayers all our sick and homebound and those who care for them. Also those who are in nursing homes.
We extend our condolences to the families of Mary Yanks, Jessie Grebenc and Albert Prijatel.
Just a reminder - our next meeting will be Dec. 2 at 1:00 p.m.
Merry Christmas!
PAULINE PAUCHICK
NO. 5, INDIANAPOLIS, IN Meeting: 1st Thurs. SND, from May to Dec.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
I hope this newsletter finds you healthy and ready for the holidays. Our Christmas party is Thursday, December 11, 1997. It will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Slovenian National Home: Please bring a covered dish and we will supply the meat. We look forward to seeing you all there.
Branch 5 held our Annual gathering for the 9:00 a.m. Mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Church followed by Krofe and coffee in the hall. Approximately fifteen members attended. This mass and social is such a nice way to get together. I wish more of you would attend.
A special thanks to Frances Yovanovich for a donation to Holy Trinity in memory of Mary Konovsek and the deceased members of the organization. Also, thank you to Mary Frances Mohr, Sue Ann Yovanovich, and Frances Yovanovich for setting up. Our thanks go to Phyllis and Steve Fon, Nikki Brown, and Anne Neese as well as Mary Frances, Sue Ann, and Frances for all the help in cleaning up. A Big
Thank you to Arlene Krebs for being chauffeur to some of the Branch 5 ladies.
BIG TRIP: Two of our officers took the time out of their busy schedules to venture to LaSalle, Illinois for the II-linois-Indiana State Convention on Oct. 5th. Phyllis Fon and Mary Frances Mohr left at 5:00 a.m. that dark Sunday morning for their 3-1/2 hour drive (one way)!
Upon arriving and announcing that they were from Branch 5, everyone was excited. Once they were registered, they were able to meet Jean Korsman, the National President, and their hostess, Bonnie Prokup, the Regional President for IL & IN. Bonnie had set up a booth of items from the Heritage Museum. Did these ladies buy anything? Of course, they did. I found the Slovenia travel guide to be especially interesting. I never knew some of those facts.
As they roamed the hall meeting and greeting, they enjoyed “picture perfect potica”. What is that? Every time I make potica, I just want it to fit in the pans, forget pretty. Oh well, I guess I shall continue to try.
Phyllis and Mary Frances sat with some of the ladies from Oglesby, IL. They have a small group, about 15, but they stay active. A special THANK YOU to these ladies for they welcomed our Branch 5 officers with open arms and made them feel so special.
The meeting was called to order and the delegates were called to give their reports. I am told that it was “very interesting listening to the branch reports, especially how similar their activities are to ours. Several ideas will be brought out at our next meeting.”
Next year the Regional Convention will be held in Joliet, IL for Branch 20’s 70th anniversary. It is going to be a BIG celebration. It will be a three-day affair, held at the Empress Hotel and Casino. So, even if you just want to go and gamble, put this event on your calendar now.
After the meeting, everyone went to church for Mass. The priest, Fr. Bernard Horzen, who was co-celebrant, is Slovenian. After mass, the ladies enjoyed a buffet luncheon and sang Slovenian songs. Unfortunately, our ladies had to get back to Indiana and were only able to enjoy a small portion of the accordionist’s program.
Thank you to both Phyllis and Mary Frances for sending me their thoughts and the events of the day.
Love from Texas,
BARBARA MOHR
NO. 6, BARBERTON, OH Meeting: 1st Sun. Slovene Center
CHRISTMAS ON THE OCEAN!
Hi, Ho! Everyone!
Hope the month of December is not too cold for you.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!
After a brief illness - now I’m fine
-	I’ll be staying with my son and his family in a condo at the ocean front for the winter. Beautiful blue skies, blue water, white sand - in South Carolina.
I'll try to write all of you individually by Jan. 1st but you know all my stuff was packed and I can’t find anything!
My new address is:
Linda K. Lambright P.O. Box 16602 Surfside Beach, SC 29587-6602 Phone: (803) 238-2679 ext. 302
All dues can be sent to my by Feb. 1998. We have fewer than 25 adult members so I’ll help them all.
We have a transfer member to Br. 6, from Br. 105. She is Cynthia Jensen, HCR #33 Box 696, Uvalde, Texas 78801. So, we have another member to add to Br. 6. Welcome!
Hate to report another member has passed away. It was not in the papers, so I didn’t know. (Hahn) Louise Ujcic, born 10/1907, died 9/8/1997. Have faith in God and may Louise’s soul rest in peace. She will be missed.
Our Florida bird, Julie Muren is back at home with her pacemaker. She was staying at her daughter’s home in Colorado. Hope all is well and her Dawn Magazine is finally reaching her regularly.
Now that I have sheet music and Slovenian songs I am looking fora Button Box (used) that no one wants or for a small amount. Would like to buy
—	will pay for postage, too.
Our membership in Br. 6 is dwindling. Need grandchildren, great grandchildren, also social members. Please, we need you to take up these ladies’ heritage. Consider!
Happy Holidays from Jennette and me!
LINDA LAMBRIGHT
NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH Meetings: 4th Wed.
SND - Holmes Avenue
On Wed. Sept. 24th, a meeting was held at Collinwood Slovenian Home when we made plans for our annual Christmas Party - it was on Nov. 19th at the Alexander Restaurant. Members were cordially invited to bring guests, too.
Get well wishes to all our sick members. Prayers were said for you.
The Ohio-Michigan Convention held at Bedford on Sept. 28th was a wonderful affair and we thank the ladies of the hostess branch for their hospitality. Our 50-year member Albina Zimmerman will be honored this year. Congratulations.
Special note: Our president, Stefie Segulin’s nephew Ryan W. Segulin was married on Oct. 18th to Shanon K. Moriarty at St. Robert’s Church. Ryan is the son of Mr. & Mrs. Richard Segulin.
Colleen Collins, granddaughter of Stefie, graduated from Ft. Jackson, So. Carolina. Congratulations to her.
Our Secretary’s new address is: TheresaDagg, 15611 Saranac Rd., Up, Cleveland, OH 44110, phone: 451-1876.
Happy, happy holidays from all our members to you!
ANN STEFANIC
NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Meeting: 3rd Thurs.
St. Peter’s Church Hall except July & Aug.
We lost another member, Mary Marolt. She tranferred from Br. 17 but had health problems so some did not know her. To her family our sympathy. May she rest in peace.
Our member, Jenny Ward who was so generous by giving us 10 lbs. of gourmet coffee which we are enjoying
at the meetings, is having some health problems. With the help of her sister, Lillian Hartman, we hope to see you again at our meetings, Jenny.
Missing at our meeting is little Erin Grambow. But, Erin is not little any more, she is excelling at Xavier College in Cincinnati, Ohio. Grandma, Ann Grambow is very proud of her and her excellence, taking many honors in tennis. She was active also in High School.
Our Christmas party is Dec. 4 at South Woods of Cudahy, 5404 So. Pennsylvania Ave. Reservations are a must. Call Rose Luebke at 321-9357. No more detours. Take Layton Ave. East to Pennsylvania Ave.; turn south and a couple of blocks down you will see the South Woods sign on the left side of the street. If you wish bring a $3.00 gift for exchange.
We had many treats for Halloween at our meeting; we again had our big pumpkin cookies made by Dolores Kodrich, many thanks to all and especially our kitchen girls.
Nice to see Chris Boyance again. Evelyn Laurich with her walking cast brought Chris. As members get older it is nice to have some who care.
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year too.
MARY KIEL
NO. 14, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 1st Tues. except July, Aug., Jan. & Feb. SSH Recher Ave.
We’ve heard so much about El Nino effect in the coming months, that we’re beginning to believe that perhaps it’s true that we can expect an especially brutal winter this year. What with an early freeze in the middle of October and snow showers. Let’s hope that the weather men are wrong (again)!
Hopefully this article arrives before our very popular and well-attended Christmas Party which takes place this year on Tuesday, December 2 at 6:00 at Slovenian Society Home. Reservations should be made to Vice Pres. Vera Bajec at 481-7473 or Pres. Martha Koren 585-4227.
Condolences to the family of Christine Kebe who passed away in August in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where she had been residing. Christine and her husband, Anton owned and operated
the popular Welcome Tavern in Euclid, Ohio.
We’ve lost one of our very dear and loyal members in September, Mary Sintic. We could always count on Mary and her husband, A1 (Albert) to provide us with astonishingly beautiful and colorful decorations to complete our festive events especially at our Mother’s Day and Christmas parties. Mary had quietly down-played her illness these years and continued on with her cheerful smile as she did her handicraft projects with husband, A1 by her side. Mary is missed not only by her husband and family but by all her dear friends. Our deepest sympathy to A1 and the family of Mary Sintic. May our dear departed loved ones be wrapped in the warm and comforting arms of Our Lord and His Beloved Mother Mary.
A reminder that there will be not meeting for the month of January, so just snuggle up in your warm flannel nightgown and read a good book.
The Christmas Season is a time to enjoy the warmth and love of family and friends as we welcome another celebration of the Birth of the Christ Child. May your Christmas be warm and loving. And let’s look forward to a Healthy, Happy New Year filled with peace, love and joy.
ALICE KUHAR ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
NO. 16, SO. CHICAGO, IL Meeting: 2nd Saturday 1 p.m. Monthly except Jan.-July-Aug. St. George’s Hall
Greetings of the Season!
My best wishes for a Blessed and Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year to all of our members, especially to those of you who are sick or shut-ins. Our Christmas party is set for Thursday, Dec. 11th at Gaddini’s, 13191 Brainard at 12 noon. Come and enjoy.
My apologies for having missed the last issue. Mea culpa.
We had a nice turnout of 20 members at our September meeting. Mary Puterko, Julie Vrlich and Elsie Seiner were warmly welcomed; they haven’t been with us for some time. We hope that you can attend regularly, ladies, we missed you.
In October we celebrated Edna Winters’ birthday. Edna, have a really great year! Thanks for all of your hard work. Fran Zupančič also added another year, but she forgot to come to celebrate.
Dolores O’Brien also enjoys an October birthday - Happy, happy to you, Dolly.
We have a few of our dear members on the sick list - Ana Lustig had some surgery done on one leg, Mary Priesol was hospitalized after a heart attack; Manda Maggio has been ailing for a long time with several different ailments; Chris Tomasik has been undergoing several tests.
Hopefully, and with our prayers, they will all recuperate well before our party. Dolores O’Brien was to have eye surgery on Nov. 11th.
The Krai family is goin’ cruisin’. Kay and Bob Jurincie, Andrea and Ed Krai, Dolores, Franko, Christine and Joe Tomasik and Mary Christine Whalen - they are going on a Panama Cruise.
Do you recall when I said that I would have to nail Gladys’ shoes down? Well, it didn’t work! She flew the coop again. Off to Minnesota, she ‘kidnapped’ Barb, her niece, - and on to Vegas! Gladys is a lost cause, I give up! In November she’s going on another cruise and in December she’ll be enjoying Branson’s famous Christmas decorations. Go girl, enjoy!
Nibbles N’bits: Helen and Doc Battista enjoyed a bus trip to Branson, Mo and the shows. Dotsi and Jim Rossi and Mary Jane and John Strus emptied their pockets in Las Vegas. We are happy to see Clara Saviano back all better. Mary Gorenz’ granddaughter, Sarah Alonzo, spent time with gram this summer. Sarah is a student at Las Vegas Univ. She is on the Dean’s list
-	carrying a 3.85 average.
Mary Therese’s grandson Jason Panczuk is doing great at Southern (Carbondale) Illinois University. Mary Brozovich’s son John and family are moving to San Antonio, Texas. He is a hospital administrator. Congratulations to Andrea and Edward Krai on the birth of grandson, Clinton Edward Krai.
Congratulations to a great aunt - this is the second time for her. Our Sylvia received the call that Mark August Spretnjak made his appearance on Oct. 17th. Congratulations to all. Enjoy the little tykes.
BRANCH 20, JOLIET, ILLINOIS CELEBRATES ITS 70TH ANNIVERSARY October 4, 1998!
You are invited to celebrate with them with a mini-vacation at the
: IM IP Ft € f f
CASINOS • HOTELS JOLIET, IL.
More information to follow!
Deep Sympathy
She was a member of Branch 95, she was a former National Officer -the treasurer and she was our friend. She enjoyed coming to our meetings. Please remember Sylvia Vukodinovich in your prayers - she passed away on October 26th. May she rest in peace. My love to all.
MARGE
NO. 20, JOLIET, IL Meeting: 3rd Tues. except June to Sept. St. Joe’s Park Hall
Dear members: I don’t have a lot of news this time. First, congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Keca on their 50th Anniversary, Oct. 19th. That is a fete well worth mentioning. 1 hope all of our children can do the same thing. “Congratulations!”
We really had a good time at our October meeting. We had card “readings” by Pam and we were all told about some very nice things that could happen to us. Of course, we're not superstitious
—	but just in case, it’s fun to dream and hope “maybe”. I’m waiting for my “prince charming!” Anyway, we all had a good time. I wish more of you would join us. Try it, you might like it!
At the November 18th meeting, our guest will be massage therapist, Nancy Busse, who will explain the benefits of massage and demonstrate the soothing effects. Dec. 21st. we will have our Christmas brunch at Al’s Steak House at 12 noon. Our entertainment will be Christmas songs sung by Karen Isberg. Reservations must be made by 12-14-97. Call Mary Kay Demich at 723-2324. Come, join us for a good time and good cheer.
Sunday, 1-18-98 - meeting at St. Joe’s park at 1:00 p.m. Father David Stalzer will conduct installation of officers. Also, the search is on for the 1998 Woman of the Year. Our entertainment will be folk music by “Stay Tuned.”
A treasure from the past, old Cadet uniforms was discovered tucked away in the homestead of Mrs. Josephine Erjavec, who was instrumental in organizing the cadets and was our SWU National Secretary. Anyone who would like to have their junior or adult uniform
or who has any idea where we could dispose of them, to a good cause, please call Olga Ancel at 723-0882 or Dorothy Mahan at 729-1279.
While on vacation in Acapulco, Mexico in October, one of our members, Phyllis Susner was in a terrible storm and is fortunate to come out unharmed except for the terrible memories. There was a write-up in the Hearld-News, regarding this terrible storm.
We extend sympathy to the family of Mary Klein, nee Boštjančič, who is at rest with Our Lord, 10-24-97 after a courageous and long battle with cancer. And also, Get Well wishes and prayers for the grandson of Beatrice Fothergill who is in serious condition in St. Joseph Hospital after a terrible car crash.
Please let us know of any shut-in members. Call Pat Figurowski at 741 -1863. Also, we still need help at the Heritage Museum. We have new carpeting and it really looks nice, so come on down, even for a little while.
THE MONKEY’S DISGRACE: Three monkeys sat in a coconut tree discussing things as they are said to be. Said one to the others, “Now listen, you two, there’s a rumor around that can’t be true. That man descended from our noble race, the very idea is a great disgrace. No monkey has ever deserted his wife, starved her babies and ruined her life, and you’ve never known a mother monk, to leave her babies with others to bunk, or pass from one on to another, till they scarcely knew who is their mother. Here’s another thing a monkey won’t
do — go out at night and get in a stew, or use a gun or club or knife to take some other monkey’s life. Yes, man descended, the ornery cuss, but brother, he didn’t descend from us.” I thought this was worth printing.
KATHY STONICH
NO. 22, BRADLEY, IL Meeting: 3rd Tuesday every other month Members’ Homes
Making public apologies appears to be the order of the day. I add my own mea culpa for failing to check the ZARJA publication schedule, creating a big gap between reports.
First, a bouquet of thanks to hostesses and co-hostesses for the June, September and November meetings: Mol-lie McIntyre and Elizabeth Kinder, Ann Richards and Margaret Planton, and Barbara Rittmanic and Helen Sebas-tiani. They have given wholeheartedly of time and effort to lighten up our lives for a few hours of an afternoon; we are in debt to them.
In September Br. 22 voted to contribute to the Scholarship Fund and the decision was made to have the Christmas dinner at Family Restaurant on Dec. 7.
Backward Glance: According to Barbara Rittmanic, “there were not many adults but a zillion kids” at the family reunion held in July at Leo’s Acres. Kids love picnics, and a rompin’ good time was had by all!
About fifty people attended the August Slovenian picnic, Anne Smole
OUR MEMBERS OF BR. 26, PITTSBURGH WITH 50 AND 60 YEARS MEMBERSHIP!
Agnes Widina	67 years
Antoinette Jaketic	63 years
Helen Kunic	61 years
Anna Straus	57 years
Mary Bratetic	57 years
Mary Racic	57 years
Rosalia Golob	56 years
Anna Zagar	56 years
Mary Susa	56 years
Mary Hudak	55 years
Anna Bobel	55 years
Some of the above members are still in good health and active! We have two who are 94 beautiful years young! God bless them and take good care of them all.
Sixty-eight active members send you all best greetings for the holiday season... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Jane Lynch, Reporter
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A Crafty Idea
I received a letter in 1994 (after “Crafty Idea” started) asking if I had a pattern for crocheted slippers. I kept the note, hoping I could fill the request. Recently, a friend who was moving and tossing out junk (I’m sure you know what I mean) called and asked if I could use a crocheted slipper pattern. She sent it and I immediately sent it on to Severine who asked for it in 1994. I asked Severine to test the pattern for me. Not only did she test it, but in return I received a lovely pair of pink slippers. They have hardly left my feet. They are so warm. She tells me that the pattern is easy to follow and quick to make.
If you would like to try this pattern, $ 1.00 and a self-ad-dressed stamped envelope will bring it to you. Mail requests and $$$ to:
Evelyn A. Majercik P.O. Box 46539 Bedford, OH 44146
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Zorbas and daughters coming from Massachusetts to see family and friends. Sorry to have missed the event and the company, for I know it is always a pleasure to relax and have fun on Leo’s Acres.
Member, Gabrielle Lustig, one of the Lustig trio, now resides at Heritage House, no stranger to HH, since she had been visiting our brother, Joe there for the past 15 months. Both are in the Skilled Care Unit and eat their meals together. Should you wish to write a note, the address is 901 N. Entrance Ave., Kankakee, IL 60901.
Two recreational parks in Bradley bear the names of our Slovenian families: William Ponikvar and the late Lili Zajc. Lill’s brother-in-Law, Edward died October 25 after a short illness. He was admired by everyone for his faithfulness and uncomplaining care of his wife, a victim of Alzheimer’s. Our condolences to his brother, Bernard and to his three nephews. Their mother, Agnes Zajc was a charter member of our branch.
Travelers: Anne Richards reports a “real good time” by daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Alan Clutter, on their 2-week vacation in Hawaii in September, visiting their son, Mark at Hic-kum Air Force Base. Soon after, Mark left for a month’s stint in Korea.
Globe trotting may be over for Mayme Drassler but she’ll be seeing Australia and New Zealand through the eyes of her sister-in-law, Ruth, who was due to return November 3 from a 3-week tour.
We hope all our readers had a Happy Thanksgiving. Christmas, too, is a day of thanksgiving for the gift of the Father to all mankind, His Son, for our redemption. For that reason we can all shout Merry Christmas to the world, and individually to our ZARJA friends.
EMMA LUSTIG
NO. 25, CLEVELAND, OH 2nd Sunday, 1:30 p.m.
St. Vitus Social Room
A BLESSED CHRISTMAS AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR 1998!
The meeting of Nov. 9, started with a prayer. We prayed for all the shut-ins and deceased especially our faithful member, Fran Kotnik. Fran with a smile on her face and her dancing feet will never be forgotten. She was laid to rest this past month. May her memory be eternal!
Pray for Rosemary Duh and Vera Hlad, both these members had surgery.
Our Fund Raising raffle winners are Dorothy Kirk $100, Ray Mlakar $50,
Ann Klopcic $25 and Marie Sustarsic $25. Congratulations.
Don’t forget your pennies! Fran Gazvoda, our president stated that all statements will be mailed by January or February.
Christmas monetary gifts were given out. If you are a member of Branch 25 and know of people in Br. 25 who are ill or in the hospital or have a change of address, please advise.
EMILEE JENKO, Reporter
NO. 26, PITTSBURGH, PA Meeting: 3rd Monday VFW Hall, 42nd St.
Sept. 15th was the first meeting date after a not so pleasant summer. Twenty-two members attended. President, Agnes Widina opened the meeting with prayer for our sick and shut-ins.
Minutes were read by Recording Secretary and Financial Secretary accepted by present members. Our president is going to call the main office for a listing of our present membership.
Our branch membership is decreasing due to a few of our long-time members who have passed away in the last two years.
REGIONAL CONVENTION CELEBRATES 70 YEARS!
The busy members of Br. 24, LaSalle, Illinois hosted the 1997 Regional Convention for Illinois and Indiana branches on Oct. 6th. Principal guest was National President, Jean Korsman of Minnesota. She is seen here with officers of br. 24 who comprised the hostess committee, headed by Regional President, Bonnie Pohar Prokup. The photos were submitted by Angie Nico, (89) to whom we extend our thanks. Below, left to right, Bonnie Prokup, Jean Korsman, Barbara Pohar, Angie Nico and Mary Ann Bruener, Bonnie’s aunt.
No. 26 (Continued):
At present we have eleven members in their eighties and two in their nineties. Good health and God’s blessings to all of them.
We now have sixty-eight active members. Br. 26 of Pittsburgh started in 1928!
A Halloween Party was planned for the October meeting. All were asked to come in costume. Old clothes and hats from the attic make for good laughs!
Christmas party and entertainment were also discussed. Have ideas and suggestions to be talked about at our meetings in October and November.
Our president, Agnes, is also a new great grandma. She now has three great grandchildren! Congratulations to all.
Our Oct. 20th meeting was attended by twenty-one women - a small crowd as there were several one-day trips to the mountains to see the colored foliage before the snow falls.
Christmas party date and place was decided on. It’s at the VFW Hall on the 15th of December at noon. Catered, good food and beautiful prizes for all so we hope to see many new faces for a happy holiday get-together.
On Oct. 6th an old time member, Frances Lokar passed away. She was also an officer in the KSKJ for years. Prayers and our deepest sympathy were sent to her nieces and nephews from Br. 26.
JANE LYNCH
NO. 30, HOME OFFICE
Congratulations to Branch 30 member Beth Pavlic formerly of Atlanta, GA on her recent marriage to Brian Berry.
Beth mentioned in her note, “The wedding was festive. We had a church service followed by dinner and dancing. A lot of family came from as far away as Hawaii. Afterwards, Brian and I took a four-day cruise to the Bahamas for some much needed rest and relaxation. We also visited the Kennedy Space Center.”
Beth and Brian Berry are now living in Gainesville, Florida, where Brian is director of training at a regional blood bank and Beth is working in medical billing while she continues her education.
Fr. Bernard Horzen, OSB was cocelebrant with pastor Fr. John On-derko at the IL-IN Convention mass held at the Church of the Redemption. Fr. Horzen also delighted the dinner guests with his reflections on the Slovenian heritage he enjoys. On the right top photo we see him with Grace Doerk and Bonnie Prokup. Angie and Jean smile for the camera during the festivities (lower right).
The LaSalle News-Tribune carried a follow-up story and photos in a later issue, especially pointing out some of the historic features of SWU, namely, our dedication to the Cause for Bishop Baraga Canonization, our popular publication, ZARJA, and the 70th Anniversary recently observed by the organization founded by forward-thinking Slovenian women in 1926. The next Regional Convention for Illinois-Indiana will be held in Joliet, IL in 1998.
Beth is the daughter of Mary and Michael Pavlic of Atlanta, GA.
*	*	*
Welcome to new member of Branch 30, Christina Borsos, of Delray Beach, Florida. Christina, a sales engineer, was recently encouraged to enroll in the SWU by her mother Jo Gosiline, Secretary of Branch 6, Barberton, OH. Jo recently moved to Palm Beach Shores in Florida and her daughter has been working in the Georgetown area of Washington, D.C.
*	*	*
A warm welcome also to associate member, George Plautz, Jr. of Fairfax, Virginia. George is formerly from Greenwood, Wisconsin, and he is very interested in genealogy. George is also a whiz on the computer and the combination of genealogy and computers gives him a definite advantage in researching his family tree.
REPORTER
NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 3rd Wednesday SSH Recher Ave.
Long time member Betty Petrovič, is in the hospital but soon will be at home recuperating. Best wishes go out to all our sick members.
Our Chinese Auction was successful. Thanks to all who donated items, worked and to all who came to support us. Everyone had an enjoyable time and enjoyed the refreshments.
To all, healthy and happy holidays which are coming up in the near future.
Br. 32 wants to correct an error and apologize to Josephine Baran on the report that she had died. Her health is good. It was Josephine’s brother, Frank who had passed away. Our sympathy to Josephine and family. May he rest in peace.
Also there was an error in spelling Louise Horvat’s name. Sorry, Louise.
FRANCES OGOREUC
NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN Meeting: 3rd Wed., 1 p.m. St. Martin’s Church Hall Jan. to May; Sept. & Oct.
Our first snowstorm of the winter has hit our area, so 1 guess we will have to accept it as it comes—
We met on October 15 with our main business, planning for our Founder’s Day celebration on November 19. This has become one of the events of our branch that we look forward to. We will meet for a Mass, said for our deceased members, remembering all they did to promote the SWU in their lives, starting with Marie Prisland, the national founder, Frances Loushin, who organized Branch 34, to the latest members who have gone before us. After Mass we will meet at the Tower Cafe for a breakfast, with Fr. Pakiz, our pastor, as our guest. We will then have a short meeting with the election of officers. Marge Skala, Agnes Mesojedec, and Theresa Berg offered to be on the nominating committee.
During our meeting, we had a chance to sign petitions that we sent to Senator Paul Wellstone, of Minnesota, to ask him to vote to override President Clinton’s veto on the Ban on Partial Abortion. Our branch has sent a donation to MN Citizens Concerned for Life for many years. Emma Betoume presented information on Oregon’s position on assisted suicide and euthanasia and we were given the opportunity to respond to that also.
A few of our ladies are in the process of getting recipes together to sent to the ZARJA for publication. If anyone else is interested, please contact me.
Our member, Sophie Musich Zupanich, has recently been confined to the Convalescent Care Unit of the Virginia Regional Medical Center — we miss seeing her at Mass and around and about our two towns—we wish you well, Sophie. She has been a member of our branch for 44 years.
The third session of our Renew Program at St. Martin’s will be over soon and they seem to be going very well... such a wonderful way to get to know each other better and share our faith, our experience, etc. We have had some very meaningful discussions.
Margaret Meseojedec and Agnes Mattson were hostesses for our October meeting, with the tables looking lovely with fall decorations. Emma Betoume, Marge Skala, Helen Adkisson and Theresa Berg won the prizes during the social hour. The door prize was brought by Theresa Berg and won by Tory Bo-bence.
We will meet again in January-may all of you have a Blessed Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
Blagoslovljene Božične Praznike in Srečno Novo Leto — this is from the Christmas cards I ordered from the Zveza — they are beautiful, with the picture being made by Lucija Drago-van.
ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter
NO. 35, AURORA, MN Meeting: 6 per year Community Sr. Center
We met on Sunday, October 12th with Sec.-Treas. Dorothy Jamnickconducting the meeting in the absence of Pres. Florence Holland. She led us in prayers for members who are ill and those who are deceased.
An interesting report was given by members who attended the MN State Convention in Duluth. Nat’l President Jean Korsman encouraged us to send in ethnic recipes for the new cookbook. This book will be dedicated to former Pots and Pans editor and Scholarship Chairman, Hermine Dicke. Have you sent in your recipe yet? Please do.
Several of our members were guests of Br. 39 Biwabik on Nov. 2nd. We can always learn by sharing ideas and enjoy socializing with our sister branches.
Plans were made for the next meeting and election of officers at 3 p.m. on Dec. 7th at the American Legion club-rooms followed by our Christmas Party. Dinner will be catered by the Legion Auxiliary.
Congratulations to:
New parents, Kevin and Carrie McGauley who have a baby girl, Cait-lin Marie, bom in Sept. Grandparents are David and Theresa McGauley. Theresa and Kevin are members of our branch.
John and Helen Simonich who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Altar Servers Lindsey Antilla and Alysa Hodnik.
James Wheeler who is teaching a Sunday School class of 1st Graders.
Our sympathy and prayers are with the family of Frank Virant who passed away in October. He was Florence Holland’s brother. May he rest in peace.
Our grandsons, James (15) and David (10) spent 10 days vacationing in Germany, France, Switzerland and Austria in October with their parents, Robert and Kathleen Wheeler. It was
a wonderful learning experience for them.
This year I decided to join a group of Volunteers at our local Nursing Home and have found it to be a very rewarding experience. Take time to visit people you know who are in these homes. Just a short visit brings a smile and sometimes a tear of happiness.
Thank you to Pauline Korpela and Anita Vovk who served the delicious apple strudel, ice cream and tea (šipka, narcisus, borovnica) that Anita brought from Slovenia.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!
ANNE M. ORAZEM
NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN Meeting: 1st Wed. except June & July Slovenian National Home
A thin dusting of snow covers the ground—the wood has been split and stacked by the shed and the hunters are home from the deer kill. This is northern Minnesota in early November!
And we of Branch 38 were busy staging our 3rd Annual Election Day Soup Luncheon and Noodle Sale. The
idea is fast catching on and we are most pleased with our success. Jenny Samsa and Ann Polichnik cooked up a huge batch of chicken soup which we served with crusty bread. Fran Zalec made plenty bags of noodles. They sold like hot cakes. It seems we never have enough on hand. The membership furnished beautiful cakes which we served with coffee. Not only was this a terrific fundraiser — it was also a day of fun and camaraderie.
On Dec. 3rd we will gather at Valen-tini’s Supper Club for our Christmas dinner party. At this time we will hold the election of officers for the new year.
I	suspect it will be brief as the officers will be persuaded to serve another year. Oh, Dear!!!
We remember with prayers our faithful member-Ann Polichnik who lost her husband in Sept. after a lingering illness. God Bless you—Ann.
And now—another year comes to an end. We look forward to a peace-filled Christmas. May your New Year be rich with God’s blessings.
GFRT ZAKRAJŠEK
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ZflRJfl donations!
Many generous contributions this month for us to acknowledge. Heartfelt thanks to all!
Keep the Connection Fund is remembered by the Minnesota Branches, collected at their Regional Convention in September. At the Illinois-Indiana Convention, member, Barbara Bruch graciously presented the Editor a check as her personal contribution. Br. 14, Euclid, decided on a very generous donation.
Food columnist Marion Bowers donated to ZARJA as a gesture of appreciation to the Editor for work well done. (Sincere thanks, Marion! CL).
Memorials to members Jennie Zor-nada and Molly Mauer were sent by family and friends of their respective branches.
The following are the donations received in this past summer:
Minnesota Branches	$51.00
Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI	25.00
Br. 14, Euclid, OH	50.00
Marion Croak, Madison, WI	15.00
BencinFam. (Molly Mauer), Cleve., OH 10.00 Memorial, Jennie Zomada:
Br. 91, Oakmont, PA	10.00
Jennie Flisek	20.00
Mayme Skerl	20.00
Mary Sacsek	10.00
Photo, Jennie Zomada	5.00
Photo, Mary P. Lehane, San Fran, CA	5.00
Photo, Br. 50, Euclid, OH	5.00
Marion Bowers (C. Leskovar)	20.00
Ann Stefančič, Br. 10, Cleveland, OH	10.00
Barbara Bruch, Br. 89, Oglesby, IL	30.00
Rose Baudek, Br. 35, Aurora, MN	10.(X)
In memory Joe Baudek and Mary Penkovich
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN 1st Sunday monthly St. John’s Church
The meeting came to order Oct. 5th at 1:30 p.m. with 20 members attending. A prayer was read by President Kathy Siskar, followed by the group joining in with the Lord’s Prayer.
A thank-you card was received from Agnes Licari for the help and remembrances at the time of her son’s funeral. Other thank-yous received were from Barb Harkonen for the Sand Lake Shuffle contribution ($100) and from M. Pocrinich of Eveleth, MN in regard to the remembrance for his wife, a former Eveleth S.W.U. member. Bishop Baraga literature was received and passed to members, and our branch gift of $100 was acknowledged.
Mary Berkness, who was at this meeting, returned after an extended illness, and was warmly welcomed.
Mary Cossalter, treasurer, read her report; our branch has a current balance of $1,490.08. Anne Geržina and Helen Zallar moved and seconded the motion that the treasures report be accepted.
Ann Geržina, our Sunshine Lady, reported on a number of cards and greetings that have been sent in the past two months.
President Siskar asked for volunteers to fill the recording secretary position. Carol Sherek, Vida Lanari, Betty Lou Anderson, and Mary Lou Crotty offered to be “floating” secretaries.
A volunteer was requested to send articles to the ZARJA for Branch 39 doings; no one volunteered.
Eleanor Indihar agreed to take the post of Vice President to replace Jean Korsman who has been filling in until someone “volunteered.”
Toots Heitala said that all members over 50 years of membership should report to President Siskar, so that she can send for recognition pins from the National Office. Members were asked to bring an ethnic recipe, not necessarily Slovenian, to the next meeting. These recipes should include your name and phone number to assist the publisher of the S.W.U. cookbook that will be published this year.
The Aurora S.W.U. branch will be invited to our November meeting to be held on November ,2 1997. Betty Lou Anderson, Helen Milos, Carol Sherek. Ann Geržina, and Millie Sherek offered to be the food hostesses. Carol Sherek agreed to provide music to help entertain our expected guests, and the Gilbert ladies agreed to provide song sheets. Everyone is asked to bring a Slovenian artifact to keep with the ethnic theme.
The First Sunday in January was selected for our Christmas celebration which will include a catered dinner and
It
Branch No.	1 -	Frances Znidarsich	Branch No.	35 -	Anna Smolich
Branch No.	2 -	Ella Kasper	Branch No.	40 -	Mayme Erjavec
		Rose Kleiderman	Branch No.	41 -	Pauline Anzells
Branch No.	5 -	Bernadette Stanich	Branch No.	42 -	Ann Draganic
Branch No.	6 -	Anna Belovec	Branch No.	47 -	AnnaZeletel
Branch No.	7 -	Theresa Hauptman			Sophia Kandus
Branch No.	8 -	Barbara Illich			Mary Mundson
Branch No.	13 -	Katherine Lampe			Darlene Zagar
		Matilda Kambic			Marie Korošec
Branch No.	14 -	Mary A. Fakult	Branch No.	50 -	Angela Perusek
		Amelia Lourin			Frances Somrak
		OlgaOzanich			Marie Beck
Branch No.	17 -	Julia Omahne			Mary Marinko
Branch No.	20 -	Mary Rozich			Mary Bencin
		Mary Fedo	Branch No.	52 -	Kathryn Adamich
		Helen Plut			Celia Politano
		Stella Tezak	Branch No.	56 -	Agnes Barkis
Branch No.	21 -	Mary Csorey	Branch No.	57 -	Phyllis Muccio
Branch No.	23 -	Jennie Zuper	Branch No.	66 -	Mary A. Tosetto
		Margaret T Shuster	Branch No.	67 -	Katherine Susany
Branch No.	24 -	Angela Nowik	Branch No.	73 -	Mary Pelc
		Theresa Jensen	Branch No.	77 -	Marie J. Filak
Branch No.	26 -	Angeline Pawluk	Branch No.	85 -	Mary Rettko
Branch No.	28 -	Anne Heineman	Branch No.	91 -	Katherine Dauer
Branch No.	30 -	Beatrice Horschler			Albina Kasmoch
Branch No.	32 -	Jennie Hiti	Branch No.	95 -	Alyce Kropel
Branch No.	34 -	Mary Jamnick	Branch No.	105 -	AnneC. McGee
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games. Toots Heitala will check out caterers, and Millie, Aine, Helen and Ann will decorate. The December 7th meeting will convene to discuss the January plans.
The group decided not to participate in the Weihnachtfest this year as our coffers are quite healthy, and we foresee no major disbursements imminent.
The meeting we adjourned at 2:45 with a motion and seconded by Carol Sherek and Jennie Ahlin.
Respectfully submitted,
MARYLOU CROTTY
*	* *
We met at St. John’s Church at 1:30. The weather was snowy, cold and miserable. It was the first storm of the year. What a surprise when 32 members and guests from Aurora came. We had invited Aurora to join us and what a wonderful turn out it was. Carol Sherek entertained us on her button box accor-dian until the meeting opened.
President Kathy Siskar opened the meeting by greeting all who were in attendance. She asked all present to say something in Slovenian and we had fun as some were well-versed in the language while some of us could use a few lessons. Anyone interested?
It was decided to have our after Christmas Party on Jan. 4th, 1998 in the Social Room. This we all look forward to every year. The dinner, the games and visitation are sure fun. We also planned have a Mass for our departed sisters in November and would contact Father Perkovich. We will attend Mass together.
A discussion was held about honoring our 50-year members. As soon as a list is completed we will order the pins. Mary Cassalter, our treasurer and Pres. Kathy will work on this.
Pres. Kathy stressed to read the article written by the secretary in the ZARJA as it contains valuable information. The recipes for the cookbook will be compiled by Jean and sent in.
We will donate $25.00 to the Merrit House for their Thanksgiving. Carol again played the accordian and we all joined in singing. Made us feel like doing the polka! Thanks Carol.
A delicious lunch was served by Millie Mestonick, Eine Karish, Ann Geržina and Carol Sherek. The beautiful table decorations were enjoyed by all.
ANGIE “Toots” HEITALA Pro Tem Sec.
NO. 40, LORAIN, OH Meeting: 2nd Wed. SS. Cyril & Method Hall
Eleven members came to our Oct. 8th meeting and we felt bad that so few came and missed the delicious dessert which was “Cream puffs” served by our Agnes Drstvensek and her sister, Angie Grayson.
All of us were very pleased and to top it off they gave us each one to take home. Num num, good!
Our Pres, opened our meeting with prayer. She also won the door prize.
She reminded us of our Christmas luncheon to be held on Dec. 10th at Mountain Jack’s at 12:30 p.m. Call our Pres, at 245-3919 if you are planning on attending. We will not have a gift exchange; instead we will donate to our favorite charities.
We wish to express our sincere sympathy to our Annette Septaric on the recent loss of her daughter-in-law Bet-tyann.
We wish a quick recovery to our Angie Grayson who had surgery recently and to Frank Pavlovčič, husband of our Francine, who had knee surgery.
Our Agatha and husband Bill celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on Aug. 26th; we wish them many more years of good health and happiness.
We hear that our Rose Knezetec received over 100 cards for her 90th birthday on Sept. 30th. We hope she has many more years of good health and happiness.
Our Pres, and I will entertain in Nov. Hope to see you at our Christmas celebration and at our Jan. meeting. Hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy new year.
With love,
MARY MATOS
SLOVENIANS TO COOK
^isljing pou 9 jftlcrrp an!) JBlcssicb tljnstmas
CHRISTMAS IS:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JESUS
—	and what a party it is - a manger scene set up in an important place in the home; a Christmas tree, with gifts under it, glowing with lights; churches filled with people and song; more smiles; cards travelling hither and yon around the globe.
These are the things that we see - but the real celebration cannot be seen - the time of the year when people try harder to love and show their love through kindness, respect, apology, forgiveness, cheerfulness, and generosity to their family, neighbors, friends, people they meet everywhere, and by giving to others, whether it be a charity in their own home town or benevolence anywhere else on our beautiful blue planet.
No one else's birthday is celebrated so universally and so well.
One way we Slovenians show our love is with our cooking, making special dishes to make others happy. Potica is possibly our most loved dish - especially at Christmas, so a recipe for it is included here. Enjoy!
Keith and I would like to say thanks and a Blessed Christmas to all the Slovenians we metat the October, 1997 Grape festival at the Slovenian Hall in San Francisco. It was sponsored by the Educational and Dramatic Club Slovenia and most of the ladies there are also members of SWU. Good food, wine and comradery. We really had a good time!
There is still time to order your SLOVENIA TRAVEL BOOK for CHRISTMAS GIFTS, and keep those recipes coming for the COOKBOOK - the deadline for sending them is extended. They would be a very nice gift to SWU. Follow HOW TO SEND RECIPES, this issue
God bless you and yours
V Marion
Marion Juricic Bowers 940 Gallcron Road St Helena CA 94574 (707) 963-7795
Anna Kermouner Hodnik, 72, Branch # 35, Aurora, MN, says, "I started making potica at 4H club when 1 was 14. Our school home economics teachcr, who was of Slovenian descent, was our leader. Later, a classmate and I demonstrated making potica at the Minnesota Stale Fair. This recipe (my family says it is the best) resembles the kind my mother made. I gave some to our Slovenian priests at Holy Rosary Church at CHRISTMAS. One priest said it was the first time he's tasted a real Slovenian polica since he left Slovenia." (Marion's note: 1 think one reason for this potica being "best" - I've never seen it in a potica recipe before - is the "nice golden brown" of the bread crumbs.) Thanks Anna, and a MERRY CHRISTMAS to you for this great recipe!
SLOVENIAN POTICA (POTICA)
DOUGH
1/4 C. luke warm water 1 pkg. dry yeast 1 C. scalded milk 1/4 C. granulated sugar 1/4 C. butter, softened
1 tsp. salt
31/2 C. sifted all purpose flour (about - see procedure below)
2 egg yolks, slightly beaten Shortening to grease baking pans
FILLING
3/4 C. scalded light cream 4 C. ground walnuts, packed (about 1 #)
11/2 C. granulated sugar 1	tsp.	salt
1	tsp.	vanilla
4 Tbsp. butter + more for tops 4 Tbsp. soft fresh bread crumbs
2	egg	whites,	beaten	stiffly
A	few	Tbsp. milk,	if	necessary
Make dough: Sprinkle yeast onto warm water and stir until dissolved. Set aside. In a big bowl, mix milk, sugar, butter and salt. Cool to lukewarm. Add 2 cups Hour, beating well with rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Beat in egg yolks and yeast mixture and mix well. Add enough additional Hour to make a soft dough (amount of flour sometimes depends on the brand of Hour used). Turn onto lightly floured surface and cover with a bowl. Let stand 10 minutes. Knead dough until smooth and clastic (about 5 minutes). Place dough in slightly greased bowl and turn once to grease surface. Cover and let rise until double in bulk (about 11/2 hours). When double in bulk, punch down and let rise again for 45 minutes.
Make filling: Scald crcam.ln a medium bowl, stir walnuts, sugar, salt and vanilla into scalded cream. Melt butter in a sauce pan and add bread crumbs. Saute until nice golden brown. Add to nut mixture. Beat egg wliitcs and fold into nut mixture. If it seems too stiff, add a couple of tablespoons of warm milk to make it spread easier on the dough. Assemble: Roll dough on floured cloth into a 32"xl8" rectangle. Spread on filling to all edges of dough. Start rollling on short end, jelly roll fashion Grease two 12" long loaf pans or three 8" long loaf pans. Cut through roll with a small plate or saucer which seals the edge. Cover pans with a cloth and let rise 30-40 minutes, heat oven to 375° . Brush tops of loaves with melted butler and bake for 30-40 minutes or until loaves sound hollow when tapped on top. Let cool in the pan about 5 --10 minutes, then remove to a cooling rack. Takes about 2 1/2 hours to make.
Good lo have on hand to offer to visitors at CHRISTMAS is a bit of candy. Here is a quick recipe from Pat Figurowski, Branch U20, Joliet, Illinois. It was passed on lo me by Hermine Dicke, the editor of the Pots and Pans Cookbook. Everyone loves the cookbook and Hermine. And a special CHRISTMAS thanks to you, Pat and Hermine!
CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES (ČOKOLADNI BONBONI)
12 oz. (equals 11/2 - 8 oz. pkgs.) semi-sweet chocolate 1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
3	C. powdered sugar
1 Tbsp. coffee liqueur, 1 Tbsp. orange liqueur, 1 Tbsp. almond liqueur (2 tsp. vanilla may be substituted for the 3 Tbsp, of liqueurs)
Finely chopped nuts, unsweet cocoa, flake coconut or candy sprinkles
Melt chocolate on the stove in the top of a double boiler, or in a large microwave safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking time until chocolatc is completely melted. Beat cream cheese in a large bowl with electric mixer on medium until smooth. Gradually beat in sugar until well blended. Add chocolate, and blend well again. Divide mixture into thirds and add one flavor liqueur to each third (or add vanilla to entire mixture). Mix well. Refrigerate about 3 hours. Make 1" balls. Roll in nuts, cocoa, coconut or sprinkles. Store in refrigerator.	Makes	3 dozen.
NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH Meetings: Quarterly, 2nd month of the quarter, 2nd Saturday Maple Hts., Library
Greetings of the season!
While I do not have any special news to report. I am reminded that sometimes “no news is good news.” Nonetheless, we can at least note the following birth dates in December: the 2nd - Donna Stubljer, the 10th - Joseph Offutt, the 12th-Betty Carroll, the 17th-Eleanor Lipnos, the 19th - “yours truly”, the 21st - Betty Huth and Jennifer Loc-kard, the 28th - Mary Lipnos, the 29th
-	Marge Church, and the 30th - Christine Hajek. Our best wishes to all.
Members, please mark your social calendars for Friday, December 19th, at 1:00 p.m., when we will hold our annual Christmas Party. The place is Piper’s III Restaurant, 8158 Broadview Avenue, Broadview Heights. For reservations, contact Marge Church as soon as possible. Come and enjoy the good food and camaraderie in a festive holiday setting.
On behalf of our lodge members, we wish you all a blessed Christmas and a new year filled with joy and peace. Looking for the perfect gift? How about these ideas (author unknown):
The Gift of Listening The Gift of Affection The Gift of Laughter The Gift of a Written Note The Gift of a Compliment The Gift of Solitude The Gift of a Favor
ALBINA SKOCAJ
NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Meeting: 4th Wed.
St. John Evangelist Rectory
Our October meeting was well-attended. The meeting was opened with a prayer, minutes were read and the financial report was given. We sang Happy Birthday to our three Birthday Girls, Theresa Kotar, Matilda Wick, Irena Kunivar, who treated us to a wonderful lunch. We thank you very much and hope you will have many more happy and healthy birthdays. There is a change of plans for our Christmas Party. The Columns is being tom down to make space for additional con-
NO. 54, WARREN, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed. Feb. thru May, Sep., Nov., Dec.
Our annual Christmas Luncheon will be on Dec. 10th at 1 o’clock p.m. at my home, 4010 Greenmont Drive. We will have a $1 gift exchange and our raffle basket. You are all asked to bring a covered dish. I will be calling all of you for your reservations.
Our dear charter member, Vic Zuga is having heart surgery tomorrow as I write, and we will be praying for her to have a speedy recovery. Vic is a wonderful, caring person and in September entertained us at her home for the first of our meetings in the fall.
She is especially dear to me and our families have been close, from the time my mom and dad came to Warren, as
NO. 55, GIRARD, Oh Meeting: 2nd Wed., 7-8 p.m. Girard Free Library
"For unto us a child is born, unw us a son is giv^n and the government shall be upon his shoulder and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Merry Christmas! How exciting it is to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Our Christmas party will be held December 3rd in conjunction with AMLA-SDZ members.
The next meeting at the Girard Library is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 1998.
Have a blessed Christmas, and we’ll see you next year in 1998.
December Birthdays: Helen Dagati, Gala Jhoss, Ivanka Florjančič and Rose Juvančič.
January Birthdays: Mary Kristin, Anna Catone, Delores DePietro, Daniel Gordon, and Jessica Gordon.
JEAN KRISTIN TWADDLE
dominiums. Our party will be at Klem-mer's Banquet Center at 10401 West Oklahoma Avenue, and dinner will be served at 12:30 p.m. For tickets and reservation please call Josephine 545-0691 or you can call me at 605-0518. Dinner will be served family style, $ 10.00 for members or guests. It would be appreciated if members would bring a dozen cookies which will be served with ice cream. Because of Thanksgiving our November meeting was on the 19th.
The Christmas party will take the place of a meeting in December. Our January meeting will be on the 28th. I wish all of you Happy, Healthy, and safe Holidays, and don’t forget our sick and deceased members in your prayers.
ANNE E. KONCZAL
newlyweds in the 1920’s. We love you, Vic; hurry and get well so you can go to Slovenia as planned!
Not much new happening in our small group. Isabelle Rek is going to Florida for the holidays to be with her daughter and we’re going to South Carolina to our daughter and son-in-law this week.
A Blessed Christmas to all and a Happy, Peaceful New Year.
Remember, no meeting in January.
JOANNE PONIKVAR
Our members attending the SWU Reunion in Las Vegas in October had a great time! Here we see, 1. to r., Evelyn Majercik, Nat’l. Secretary; Olga Dorchak, Regional Pres, of Ohio-Michi-gan; Elsie Spellacy; back row: Delores and Robin Mueller.
ENJOYING THEMSELVES AT LAS VEGAS
NO. 59, BURGETTSTOWN, PA
Theresa Shearson, 87, of Burgettstown, died October 30, 1997. She was bom January 31, 1910, in Pitsburgh and was a lifelong resident of Burgettstown; she was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, where she was a member of the Christian Mothers and the Catholic Daughters of America. She was also a member of the Burgettwtown Senior Citizens and the S.W.U., Br. 59. For many years, she worked as a cook in her brother’s restaurant, Peppy’s, in Burgettstown.
Her husband, Steve Shearson, died in 1982.
Surviving are a son, Stephen Shearson of Belle Vernon; six grandchildren, Stephen Shearson, Gregory Shearson, Amy Mattingly, Carlotta Shearson-Hoagland, Julie Shearson and Edward Shearson; six great grandchildren; a sister, Lenna Giocomelli of Langeloth; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased, in addition to her husband, are a son, Albert John Shearson; three infant sons, two brothers, a sister, and an infant sister.
Her Mass of Christian Burial took place on Nov. 1st at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.
Our members mourn her loss and we extend our deepest sympathy to the family.
ROSEMARY ORENCHUK
NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH Meeting: Mar.-Apr.-May-June Aug.-Oct.-Nov.-Dec.
Sec’y. Epley’s Home 20294 Emery Rd., No. Randall
Our Indian summer has ended. All of you would have enjoyed being in Cleveland to enjoy the celebrations, the spirit of baseball, the red, white and blue atmosphere of our city after our team lost the World Series. Lord only knows what it would have been like had we won!
It was a very trying time for me, not to be able to watch MY Indians for the last two games. I joined the small group that met in Las Vegas for the weekend. We did have such a great time. Delores Mueller and her daughter, Robin, along with Olga Dorchak and Elsie Spellacy (Br. 47) made the trip. So much to see, so much to do. Weather was great. We
did visit with Kathleen Emerson for a short while. We should do it again. Our number may have been small, but that did not put a damper on our fun.
Babies are in our news this month. We hear that Ann Modic is babysitting for triplets. Her grandson and his wife are the lucky parents of the threesome, and great grandma has the pleasure of enjoying them. She is really a “GREAT” Grandma to be taking on that chore. Congratulations to the mom, dad, and the lil’ ones. Any pictures?
Following close to the triplets, we are given to understand that our secretary, Gloria Dusek, will be grandma again — this time it’s twins for her son and his wife who reside in Indiana. Better get that cross-stitch stuff started, Gloria!
Branch No. 73 wants to extend its sympathy to John and Mary Taucher (Secretary, Br. 47) on the loss of their son. Richard, age 56, died suddenly following a massive stroke. Believe me, there are no words to convey enough sympathy and compassion on the loss of a child—regardless of their age. We keep you always in our prayers.
Likewise, the passing of our past-National Treasurer cannot go unnoticed. Sylvia Vukodinovich gave several years to SWU. We extend to her family our deepest sympathy. May all of our faithful departed rest in peace.
To all of you, from all of us, to your homes from our homes, a very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. We hope that 1998 will hold many blessings for each and everyone.
Respectfully submitted,
EVELYN A. MAJERCIK
NO. 89, OGLESBY, IL Meetings: 2nd Monday except Jan and July Dickinson House
We had a short business meeting Oct. 13th at Hardee’s. A vote was taken to donate towards the Olgesby Public Library which is now being built and which has been long overdue. Rose Ann Prey, delegate for the III.-Ind. State Convention held Oct. 5th, hosted by Br. 24 La Salle, gave a report on the meeting and the guest speakers.
It was so nice to meet Grace Doerk who is a member of S.N.P.J. Lodge
559. I often read her articles in the Prosveta paper. We were fortunate to be sitting with two members of Br. 5 from Indianapolis, the president and secretary of the branch. It proved to be a very delightful afternoon.
It was nice to see Bonnie Pohar Pro-kup do such a splendid job as our state president. Anne Wangler and her Br. 24 members did a fabulous job hosting the convention. Please don’t think for one moment that I forgot Corinne Leskovar; her dedication to her work for 45 years is really something that is impossible to translate into words, the respect and a admiration that is on all o four faces that can’t say “thank you” enough for all of the ZARJA’s printed thru the years.
Corinne, your tireless efforts on behalf of all members of SWU are the qualities which endear you to all - you rank very high indeed among family, friends and SWU. Congratulations!
(Thank you, Eunice, for your kind words that mean so much to me. C. L.)
With the holidays coming real soon, hope you all had a Blessed Thanksgiving with your loved ones and didn’t eat too much turkey.
Santa is next in line so better be real good so he won’t pass you up and forget your gifts. May you all have a blessed Christmas Season and a Happy New Year.
Vesele Božične Praznike in srečno novo leto!
EUNICE KOMATER
P.S. Just a reminder! Don’t forget Dec. 7th 10:00 a.m. Mass for all of our deceased members. Please try to attend.	E.K.
NO. 102, WILLARD, WI Meeting: When convenient Parish Center
One of the highlights of the month of October was the CCW of Holy Family celebration of the 50th anniversary which was held on Oct. 26, beginning with a 10:30 mass. The adult choir sang some Slovenian songs. This was followed by a potluck meal and ended with a short program and some singing.
Margaret Stauner and Sophie Trun-kel compiled a brief history of the CCW from 1947 to 1997. The booklet is very informative, listing all the officers, chairladies, and co-chairladies, plus a
ft: :ft ft if* 6 ft ft ft ft ft SLOVENIA Travel Book ft ft: ft ft ft: 6' fft ft ft ft
Bevcrly Jackson, Zaria reporter for Branch #13, San Francisco, wrote in the October-Nov ember Zarja, "Mary Shockley and daughter, Ina Henderson, spent 6 weeks in Slovenia. ...They used the "Lonely Planet" (travel) book on Slovenia and give it rave reviews. 'The wealth of information in this little book is truly astounding and a copy should be in the home of anyone who has an interest in this lovely country' says Ina". If you have an interest in Slovenia, or if you'd like to give a (CHRISTMAS) gift to a child, friend or anyone else you think would like to become "interested", send for your copy today. You now have two locations where the book can be ordered. The book is $14.00 if you pick it up at the home office in Joliet. It is $16.00 (to cover packing and mailing) if ordered by mail. Please include check made out to "Slovenian Women's Union" when ordering by mail.
SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION	SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S UNION
HOME OFFICE (IN THE IIERITAGE MUSEUM)	DIRECTOR OF WOMEN'S ACTIVITIES
c/o JONITA RUTH	KATHLEEN EMERSON
431 N. CHICAGO ST.	41 SPARROW HILL
JOLIET ILLINOIS 60432	ORION MICHIGAN	48359
(815) 727-1926	(248) 370-0015
How To Send Your Recipes for ZARJA or the COOK BOOK
A INI'RODUCE YOUR RECIPE with a few lines such as Slovenian origin, memories, humor etc. Example: A nice childhood memory was coming home from school and having the delicious smell of homemade soup meet me at the door. Here is my mom's recipe for BEEF SOUP (GOVEJA JUHA).
B. WRITE RECIPE TITLES IN ENGLISH AND SLOVENIAN if you or someone else can translate. See Example above.
C. LIST ALL INGREDIENTS ABOVE THE DIRECTIONS IN THE ORDER THEY ARE USED. See example in this issue.
D. GIVE EXACT MEASUREMENTS, 1 pkg. (5.1 oz.) instant vanilla pudding, 2 tsp. salt, 1 C. milk etc.
E USE KNOWN COOKBOOK ABREVIATIONS, Tbsp. for tablespoon, tsp. for teaspoon, C. or CUP for cup etc.
F. INCLUDE PAN SIZES, COOKING TEMPERATURES, COOKING TIMES ETC., 9" xl3" baking dish, 350°. Bake 35 min. etc.
G. INCLUDE AMOUNTS THE RECIPE MAKES, if applicable. Ex: Serves 4, Makes 4 dozen cookies etc.
H MAKE OR DOUBLE CHECK YOUR RECIPE FOR CORRECTNESS AND COMPLETENESS before submitting it.
I. PROOFREAD YOUR RECIPE and HAVE SOMEONE ELSE PROOFREAD IT. for understadability without questions.
J. INCLUDE SUGGESTIONS OR OPTIONS, Nice to serve with a fruit salad, Serve with a Christmas prayer, etc.
K INCLUDE YOUR NAME. ADDRESS. PHONE NUMBER BRANCH#, MAIDEN NAME, if applicable, and. optionally, your AGE -because a woman's age is always optional! Your phone number is VERY important. Calling information for your phone number costs 95 cents a call and there often are questions about recipes. This is a lot of "stuff”, but doing it will make a good cookbook.
wealth of other information. Our thanks to Sophie and Margaret for a job well-done.
Frank and Jean Gorek left in early October to spend the winter in Yuma, AZ. Hoping they will have a happy and restful vacation.
On Sept. 3rd, Emil Plautz had surgery on his right leg, which was amputated below the knee. We wish him a complete recovery.
Troy Pakiz, son of Larry and Sue Pakiz, is attending school in Grand Forks, ND, where he is taking up aviation. His parents, along with his grandparents, Frank and Rose Pakiz, drove to Grand Forks in late October to visit Troy and spend the weekend with him.
In late September, James Seliškar passed away at the age of 59. Warm thoughts and sympathy are extended to the family in this, their time of great sorrow.
We pray for the good health of all the shut-ins of our area, those in Nursing Homes and in hospitals.
FRIEDA KLANCHER
NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C. Meeting: 1st Sun. except July & Aug St. Columba's Ch. Albemarle St.
The October meeting was cancelled because of preparations for the October 10 dinner-dance. As always, we had a great and successful evening. Many compliments were expressed for the danceable music of John Novak’s “Polka Habit.” The Slovenian selections were excellent — even the young children couldn’t resist dancing every dance. The dinner was delicious, with a strictly Slovenian menu. The ladies of Branch 103 are to be congratulated for a job well done. Special thanks to Mary Lou Terselic, Mimi Mejac, Molly Thomas, and Nika Kovacic for their outstanding efforts; and a special thanks to Tončka Cigale who spent many hours of time in making her famous apple strudels-thanks, Tončka, for your generous contribution. Many thanks to Irene Odorizzi for furnishing her hand-made white chocolate rose lollipops; her tireless efforts in doing for others (and the organization) arc
appreciated more than we can say. Also a big thank-you to all the ladies who made pastries and offered special assistance where needed.
An added feature was the art exhibit. Mary Plantan Bodling, Estelle Zorman McGuckin, and Marie A. Cacic Robinson (all Branch 103 members) displayed and sold several of their paintings. We are indeed honored in having these talented individuals as members of our Branch — many thanks to all three artists for displaying their lovely paintings. Also, thanks to Bernadette Fitzsimmons for displaying and selling her beautiful greeting cards, some with photos she had taken herself. Bernadette’s artistic ability is indeed remarkable. Finally, the door prizes were very special, and certainly exciting for the winners.
*	* *
Members convened for their regular meeting on Sunday, November 2, 1997. Our main topic, of course, was comments regarding the dinner-dance on October 10. Everyone agreed we had a very successful and happy event, enhanced by the danceable music of John Novak’s Band. We had a good
^9he members of Branch 103, fjn Jpovinq Washington, DC, MD, VA,	J	J
mourn the loss of Pauline Grum Caldwell (Polly) after an extended illness. Polly wa bom in Waukegan, Illinois on June 25,
1914, the sixth of ten children, and passed away on October 10,
1997. Her marriage to Kip Caldwell from Waukegan was blessed with two children, John and Jill. Polly, always proud of her Slovenian heritage, was active in the Slovenian community in Waukegan, and was proud to say “Slovenes were her people.”
She was a resident of Virginia since 1993, and became a member of Branch 103 in 1994.
She was interred on October 25
in the family burial plot at the Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, Illinois. Survivors include her son John, daughter Jill Augustine (Branch 103 member and former president), seven grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Father Raymond Wadas, Branch 103 Spiritual Advisor, celebrated Mass for Polly in the Slovenian Chapel of Our Lady of Brezje in the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
Polly will be missed — her ever-ready smile and friendliness endeared her to all friends and acquaintances. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are extended to Jill and her family.
Matilda Ausich
attendance; however, as always, missed some of our regular attendees— namely, Freda Michelitch and Sabina Bartol. Freda is feeling much better now, and Sabina is mending well from her recent surgery. Our prayers are offered for both ladies for a rapid and complete recovery. A big thank-you is extended to hostesses for this meeting— Molly Thomas and Mary Bodling, the buffet was excellent, as always.
Sabina wrote a beautiful letter to President, Mary Lou Terselic and mentioned a recent article in the ZARJA pertaining to charitable contributions which might be directed to our own SWU; namely, ZARJA, Heritage, and Scholarship Funds. Being so loyal to our organization, Sabina has already forwarded a personal contribution to these three SWU funds; hopefully, the branches will also include them in their annual gifts.
We are enjoying beautiful fall weather here, despite the intermittent rain that we so desperately need. The vivid array of colorful leaves from a variety of trees are breathtaking to behold. How fortunate we are to be living in areas where we can enjoy each season, one more beautiful than the other, so it seems. Surely this is one of many of God’s blessings that we sometimes take for granted.
Hope everyone enjoyed Thanksgiving Day-what a beautiful holiday for family gatherings. Also, best wishes for a holy and happy Christmas and New Year.
Blessings to all,
MATILDA AUSICH
NO. 105, WARREN, MI Meeting: 2nd Tuesday, 7 p.m. SNPJ Northern Home 31690 Mound Rd. Warren
It’s hard to believe that Christmas is right around the corner. In the hustle and bustle of this wonderful season we must always remember the reason for this holiday. Christmas is the celebration of Christ’s birth. He came into this world as a baby, as we all did, in order to save mankind.
Christmas is a very sentimental time for many people, and yes, I’m one of them. I remember the wonderful traditions that my mother and father, Frank
and Milka Kregar instilled in our family. Every Christmas Eve, my mother would cook the traditional meal of “krvave klobase", pork, potatoes and cole slaw. As always, we would say grace before our meal, and before we began to eat, we would raise our wine glasses to bid each other a Blessed and Holy Christmas Eve. After dinner, my father would go outside and build a fire which would later be used with the incense to bless our home. Our evening celebration would begin around the Christmas tree with the rosary, and we would follow my father through the house as he blessed each room with holy water. This is a very Slovenian tradition for Christmas Eve. After this was done, we would gather around the Christmas Tree and pray the three mysteries of the rosary. As one can see, our Christmas Eve was filled with prayer. And, what 1 remember most was that I found such a peaceful feeling during Christmas Eve. After prayers, we would listen to Slovenian Christmas songs and sing along with our records.
One of the records contained a Christmas Homily of the deceased Bishop Rožman. I never met the Bishop, but he must have been quite a priest because his Christmas homily was very inspiring.
This year, my husband, Tom and I will be celebrating our first Christmas Eve with our little daughter, Anna. My wish for our daughter is that she, too, will find the same peaceful feeling on this special day.
May all of you have a very Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year of 1998!
Vesele Božične Praznike in Srečno Novo Leto!
DORI KREGAR FOOY
Can you help us find:
Anne Brolich?
She is formerly of Br. 100, Fontana, CA but her last address is in Scottsdale, AZ. If you know of her, please advise the Nat’l. Secretary at P.O. Box 46539, Bedford, OH 44146. Thank you.
fl WEDDING I11 THE OLD TRADITION IN MODERN SLOVENIA
The sun was shining brightly on the wedding day of Sabina and Aleš Štebe in Komenda, Slovenia. A civil ceremony took place at 11 a.m. and a Wedding Mass and marriage vows followed that evening.
Their driver and protector, Sabina’s uncle Miro, put on his tuxedo and top hat and drove to pick up an accordion player, Miha who entertained the wedding party during the day. Next, he and the groom, Aleš went to pick up the bride’s bouquet and the bouquet of white carnations, roses and lilies which were attached to the hood of the car. At the bride's house a ‘mlaj' or maypole had been erected by the village young men. Two twenty-foot evergreen trees were set up at the beginning of the driveway, one on each side, and across the top was a decorated sign reading "Živila Nevesta in Ženin” or Good luck to the Bride and Groom.
Driver Miro drove in under the 'mlaj' and then had to maneuver the car so that when he left with the bride and groom, he would drive out directly. He was not allowed to back up the car at all throughout the day while the couple were in his car as this might bring them bad luck... the car must only go afterward.
Aleš entered the house and presented the bouquet of white roses, calla lilies and orchids to the bride. Sabina was radiant in a white silk shantung gown with Belgian lace insets studded with sequins and seed pearls and a four foot train. Her fingertip veil was edged in matching Belgian lace.
.	.....	As	she and Aleš and
/,’	SMI	\	'	their	two	‘priče’	or
U	IP	witnesses	prepared	to
leave they were met
under the ‘mlaj’ by the the village fellows, dressed in blue work overalls, who had placed a large log between two wooden horses as an obstacle on the road. They then insisted the groom must pay a tax and also prove that he had the skills of a family man and must prove his worth by sawing I the log in half before they could proceed. Once again, bickering began for the price to pay by the groom and his two witnesses, Egan for the groom and Juč for the bride, and their protector, Miro with the ‘fantje na vasi ’. Looking on were the bride, accordion player, parents of the wedding couple, neighbors and friends. Soon the ‘mešetar’ or negotiator settled on 5,2(X) tolars, or about $40 dollars and symbolically sawed the log in half amid the cheers of onlookers as they all celebrated amid much laughter with a drink for goods luck. The ‘fantje’ and their girlfriends then went to the local ‘gostilna ’ for their own celebration with the money.
Everyone entered their cars and proceeded to the civil ceremony in the Blue Hall of Ljubljanska Grad. Following the ceremony and amid a shower of rice, Sabina and Aleš Štebe greeted friends and relatives outside the Ljubljana Castle and were toasted with champagne. As the couple entered their car they found to their dismay that the back of the car was filled with balloons which had been filled with rice. The couple had to sit on the balloons and break them but not let them tly out of the car. Soon they settled in, amid rice and balloons, and were off, first to the photographer’s studio, then for lunch in a restaurant and to visit relatives.
At 7 p.m. the second ceremony took place at Komenda’s beautifully renovated Sv. Juri, St. George’s church. Cousins Brigita, Danijela and Karmen sang with the childrens' choir for the wedding mass and Danijela did the reading at the mass.
Immediately following the mass, the ‘poročno slavje’ or wedding celebration was held. It took place in Domžale at ‘‘Gostišče Majčev. ”
Alice Kuhar
/9400 Arrowhead Ave. Cleveland, OH 44!/9-2245
A LEGEND OF SAINT NICHOLAS
Bernice Krašovec
A LEGEND OF SAINT NICHOLAS is an entertaining story in verse about the Saint who was a Bishop in Myra, Turkey in the year 300 A.D.
This story is also educational and brings to life the spirit of giving and sharing. While numerous parallels are drawn between St. Nichqlas and the famous Santa Claus legend, the author informs her readers trhat the Santa Claus story is the product of many different cultures. Still, this entertaining book will warm the hearts of both children and adults as they gather together to celebrate the holiday season.
Bernice Krašovec P.O. Box 1888 Pueblo, CO 81002-1888
A LEGEND OF S*INT NICHOLAS
SEND TODAY!
Price Total Quantity of each Price
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ORDERS FULLY GUARANTEED SHIPPED UPON RECEIPT OF ORDER
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(&1 will on tn SWU Scholarship Fund)-------------
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Miracle Worker from Myra
Except for those saints whom we know from the Bible, no one saint enjoys universal popularity among both Catholics and Protestants, like Saint Nicholas. A mixture of both fact and legend has surrounded this saint and as a result, everyone knows him, and most link him with the joy of Christmas giving.
So, then, this Christmas suppose we “meet” Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra.
There are many things in general people do not know about Saint Nicholas. When he was returning from the Holy Land by ship, a terrible storm came upon them. This young Bishop Nicholas held his hands up in prayer and stopped the wind. So it has come to pass that sailors in fear of a ship wreck pray to Nicholas.
Saint Nicholas was linked to the sea, as his Diocese was the seaside port of Myra in what was then Asia Minor and is now Turkey. To serve his diocese, Nicholas often had to travel by boat to the many small hamlets of the area because the roads were often washed out by the sea. He was their beloved Bishop, often blessing sailors and those on shore alike while standing by the mast of a small boat. From this service grew the many legends which have brought such comfort and strength to sailors in trouble.
We do know that Saint Nicholas was a generous man. One story tells how three sisters could not marry because their father was too poor to provide the dowry needed in those times. Bishop Nicholas heard of this and when the eldest daughter was ready to be wed, he went to their home in disguise and tossed a bag of gold coins through an open window. Not long afterwards, the girl was married. This happened again for each of the other two daughters - but the father of the girls had been keeping watch for this mysterious gift giver. One evening he heard a noise in his courtyard, so he hurried to the door in time to see a figure wrapped in a heavy cloak. He watched the figure open the window shutter and toss a bag into the house. The father rushed out and caught the cloaked man. When Bishop Nicholas turned around the man recognized him. The father was overwhelmed with joy that such a great man as Nicholas would care for his three beloved daughters. The father of the girls could not keep a secret, so shortly thereafter the story spread, and other people who had been mysteriously helped suddenly realized who had helped them. And so the stories of good will spread throughout the lands.
Many miracles have been attributed to Saint Nicholas, and one tells how three generals were accused of treason when they were actually innocent. They were sentenced to death by the Emperor Constantine. On the night before they were to die, the generals, prayed to Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas was hundreds of miles away, but he appeared in
a dream to Constantine, ordering him to pardon the three generals at once because they had been falsely accused. It is written that Constantine did indeed pardon the men.
Another legend tells how Myra was suffering from famine. One day ships from Egypt dropped anchor in Myra. They were loaded with wheat, but this grain was for the emperor’s own stocks, and the captains feared for their lives should they feed the starving people of the port city. It is said that Nicholas told the captains they could unload enough wheat to save the people without fear. The captains did as Nicholas said. But when they reached their destinations, their cargoes were still intact.
Nicholas died in about the year 340. He was buried with great reverance and love by the people he had served. Ordinarily, a Bishop would fade in time from the memory of the people. But so great was the respect and love Nicholas had won that his memory burned in peoples’ hearts. The faithful in fear of great danger turned to Nicholas “their Bishop” for strength and inspiration, and in time his fame as a miracle worker spread. People began naming their children after him.
Seven centuries after the death of Nicholas, the port of Myra was taken by Muslim armies. Many people were greatly concerned that the remains of Saint Nicholas were in Muslim hands. In the year 1087, fifty Italian sailors landed at Myra and attempted to purchase the remains of Nicholas. When they were refused, they smashed the stone lid of the tomb and took his bones with them. The sailors built a white stone church on the waterfront of Bari to house the relics. Today it is estimated that approximately 200,000 Christians visit Bari and the tomb of Nicholas.
And now, suppose we look at how Saint Nicholas became identified with Christians.
The Reformation frowned on the cult of saints. But Nicholas had a following who wished to keep his memory alive, including some who had allied themselves with the Reformation movement. It was decided to have a day for children on the date of December 6, which was the date Saint Nicholas died. It was a happy day with the children receiving gifts. In some countries, it became the custom for a man dressed as a Bishop representing Saint Nicholas to visit a room where children were gathered, tossing apples, nuts and small gifts to them.
And as time passed, this custom overlayed and blended with Christmas. Saint Nicholas became a symbol of Christmas giving. Other names came into being, such as Father Christmas, Santa Claus and Father Time. Scandinavians added reindeer to the customs. Today our Christmas celebration is a mixture of rich traditions, customs and religion.
Today we know only a little about Saint Nicholas as he truly was, except that his spirit seeks to be very much alive and still working wonders. We know he was a devout man of God, dedicated to serving God and the people. He was a loving, generous person. If we can inspire each other to love others and give as willingly as Saint Nicholas... Bishop of Myra ... did in his time, much of the real joy of giving to others would be felt once again. I wonder if we should not remind ourselves and our children not only of the story of that wonderful day when Christ was born ... but also of the legend of Saint Nicholas.
Excerpted from article by Mary Louise Kitsen in Marian Helpers Bulletin - 1983
<yl/(ay your Christmas be bright with the light of love... warm with peace and hope.
DONATION TO SLOVENIAN HERITAGE MUSEUM PLAQUE
Irene Jagodnik, former National Auditor from 1979-90 and capable Secretary of Branch 50 for many, many years sent a $100 check for the Slovenian Heritage Museum plaque.
As a National Officer, and since her tenure, Irene has been a loyal supporter of heritage and the museum. Her presence on the National Board is truly missed but her understandable circumstances refrain further involvement as a SWU leader. Irene retired from her national position when she realized that her husband’s alzheimer’s illness required her to be his nurse on a twenty-four hour basis. She has been the angel at Tony’s side since 1990, moving to New York where she would be close to family.
I’m sure Irene would love to hear from her many friends. She can be contacted as follows:
Irene Jagodnik Sleepy Hollow Manor 650 Riverside Drive Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591
Once again, Irene, on behalf of the Slovenian Women’s Union and the Heritage Fund and Museum, many thanks for your dedicated work for Zveza all those years and for your continued support and friendship. God be at yourside.
Josephine H. Schmidt from Milwaukee sent $5 in memory of Mitzie Marolt.
National Secretary, Evelyn Majercik, remembered Jennie Zornada, mother of Branch 91 secretary, Jennie Flisek. She also mentioned in her letter that Jennie Flisek was a very cooperative secretary.
Ken and Irene Odorizzi donated $25 for the following dearly departed ladies: In memory of Pauline Caldwell, mother of Jill Augustine #103; Jennie Zornada mother of Jennie Flisek, #91; and Sylvia Vukodinovich, past SWU National Treasurer.
SLOVENIAN CHRISTMAS CARDS AVAILABLE AT MUSEUM
A package of 5 cards is $6.00 inc. postage
Write to the Heritage Museum, 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 1L 60432. Make the check payable to the Heritage Fund.
Slovenia Wins Contested U.N. Seat
The United Nations General Assembly elected Slovenia to a two-year term on the 15-nation Security Council starting Jan. 1, 1998. Other countries included were Bahrain, Brazil, Gabon, and Gambia.
The council is the U.N. body responsible for international peace and security. The council can impose mandatory sanctions or authorize peacekeeping missions. Slovenia was an uncontested candidate of its respective regional group making its election by the 185 member assembly noncon-troversial.
Slovenia defeated Macedonia by 140 to 30 in a contest for the East European seat currently held by Poland.
The five permanent members each with veto power are the United States, Russia, Britain, China and France.
OTHER HERITAGE HEROES
Recently, Dorothy Jamnick, sent a letter and a check for $51. She stated that the Minnesota branches held a raffle at their last meeting and the ladies agreed to send 50% of the money to heritage. Every year, we can expect a nice check from the Minnesota ladies and we thank them most sincerely for always remembering their heritage.
Stefanie Segulin, Secretary of Branch 10 sent a check and a letter stating that Branch 10 wished to donate $10 in memory of their member, Steffie Koncilja.
Fran and Frank Shepel of Ely, MN sent a check for $5 in memory of Clarice Kobe Laudin.
Catherine Oliver, Treasurer of Branch 43, said that her ladies wished to donate $25 from their treasury. Thank you, ladies!
Theresa Fedran, Treasurer of Branch 12, stated in her letter that Branch 12 wished to remember the Heritage Fund this year and we are much obliged to the ladies from Milwaukee for donating $25 from their treasury.
Slovenian Women’s Union Heritage Museum
/ (we) enclose $
In honor of   _______________________________________________
Name and Occasion
In memory of_________________________________________________
As a Contribution   _________________________________________
Donor's Name ________________________________________________
Donor s Address
Remember those you love and hold most dear with a gift to the Heritage Fund. Please send the donation to Heritage Director, 2362 Paddock Lane, Reston, VA 20191. Your donation will be acknowledged in the HERITAGE HEROES column.
FOUR $1,000 SWU SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 1998!
To be eligible, 1) you must be a high school senior intending to be a full time student at an accredited university or college after graduation, and 2) you must have been a member of the SWU for at least three years prior to graduation. One scholarship can be awarded ever to any one family and only one scholarship can be awarded each year to any one branch. ALL APPLICATIONS ARE TO BE MAILED PRIOR TO MARCH I, 1998. Applications received beyond that date will be disqualified.
The applications are evaluated by the SWU Scholarship Committee based equally on scholastic achievement; school, church, and community activities; SWU participation; and financial need. To avoid partiality, all identifying information is deleted from the material given to the committee members and each applicant is identified by a randomly assigned letter of the alphabet.
All applicants are notified by mail of the final decision. If you are awarded a scholarship, one half of the award is paid to you when you submit proof of first semester enrollment at an accredited university or college. The remainder is paid when you submit proof of second semester enrollment.
APPLICATION FOR SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION SCHOLARSHIP
Name____________________________________________________________________________Sex	M_______________F.
Home Address___________________________________________________________________________________________
City_______________________________________________________________________________________State______________________Zip.
Name of Parentfs)		
Hieh School		Princinal
School Address		
City	State	Zip
Graduation Date	Class Rank	GPA
College Considered	Major	
SWU Branch Number________________________________________Years	of	SWU	Membership.
Signature___________________________________________________________________________
Include the following additional material with the application form:
__________ One recent 2-1/2” x 3-1/2” photo, black and white or color.
__________ Official transcript of high school grades to date.
__________ Brief autobiography including school, church, community, SWU activities and personal goals.
__________ Statement of financial need.
__________ Recommendation from high school principal/teacher/counselor.
__________ Recommendation from SWU Branch president/secretary.
Send the completed application form and all the requested material to:
Mary Turvey, SWU Scholarship Director 52 Oakridge Drive Marquette, Michigan 49855
UE5ELE BDŽIČnE PRRZHIKE SLOUEIimn CUSTOMS:
Preparations for Christmas Eve, the most important time of the season, begin many weeks before the actual day. Mother is busy baking cookies and poticas (poteetsa, Slovenian nut roll); children excitedly search the woods for moss for the manger scene, and with their parents, select a Christmas tree to decorate their home. On Christmas Eve final touches are made to the Nativity Scene by the father. He is, by tradition, the one delegated to set up the crib which is a “must” in every home. Mother bakes a special egg bread, which is characteristically twisted into braids, and covers it with a cloth, this bread called “poprtnjak” (Popertnyak), will remain on the table until the end of the Christmas Season, the Epiphany.
A customary procession is made by the family on this occasion in which the father and mother use incense and holy water to bless each room of the house. Members of the family pass through the rooms praying, as the parents bless everyone and all their belongings. Finally the blessing is performed around the outside of the house as well. Upon returning to the house, the father places the Christ child figure in the manger officially announcing the arrival of the Savior. This act is followed by the praying of three rosaries and/or the reading of the Gospel. Christmas carols are sung and the family feasts on all the goodies prepared for this occasion. As Christmas bells ring out with their traditional rhythm, people arrive at the Church to partake in the solemn celebration of Midnight Mass.
These customs are carried out	in a selective,	indi-
vidualized manner, to the extent each family chooses to observe them. After Midnight Mass, all return home to rest, greeting each passer-by as they	go and wishing	them
“Vesele božične praznike”.
The Three Wisemen who searched out for the Baby Jesus and followed the bright star to his crib were Gasper.
Miha and Boltezar. These names revered by Slovenians are symbolic of the spirit of love, respect and gift-giving.
The	initials of the	Three Wisemen	are	marked	on	the
door	lintels of Slovenian homes	on	Christmas	Eve	as	the
family asks for blessings to be granted to the household.
<9
SCHOLARSHIP FUND REPORT September and October 1997
Donor
In Honor of
Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI	Scholarship Fund
Br. 22, Bradley, 1L	Scholarship Fund
Br. 59, Burgettstown. PA	Scholarship Fund
Adeline Mustonen	Hank & Norma Zbasnik
(45th Wedding Anniversary
Pauline Korpela Diane M. Bencin and Sherri L. Bencin Duncan Janvid&Mary Staut Janvid & Mary Staut Janvid & Mary Staut Br. 55, Girard, OH Max L. Schuster Kay Yuratovac
In Memory of
Jacob & Pauline Longar
Molly M. Mauer Dorothy Bayuk Joe Plautz Johanna Klarich Rosemary Gordon Frances Payton Helen Kainac
Amount
$25.00
25.00
50.00 5.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
25.00
100.00 5.00
Since the inception of our Scholarship Program in 1949, $107,000.00 has been awarded to young Slovene students. This could not have happened without the continued support and interest of many thoughtful donors. Hopefully, our young students, with help, will continue to promote the wonderful culture which we have inherited.
A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Mary Turvey, Director
(StovznLan Qlomsn'i Hlnion	^Program
0	(we) aicloie. $ _____________________________
iJn tionoi of _
X>onox i dVame. ____
■zNajru. and (Da
Let’s Keep the Dream Alive!
U^onm'i crf-tLlit.il Cih,---------------------------
<£tatz
2ifi Code.
Send your donation to Mary Turvey, 52 Oakridge Dr. Marquette, Ml 49855
nfiŠfl SLDUENSKR DEDIŠČIHH
BARAGA
Začetki Katoliške Cerkve v Ameriki
FRANC JAKLIČ
IX. BARAGA REDNI ŠKOF SAULTSKI LETO 1862
Z zadnjo ladjo, ki je tisto leto še šla, se je Baraga vračal proti domu. Bila je tovorna ladja. Kapitan mu je odstopil svojo lastno ladijsko sobico. Počasi je šlo, celih deset dni so se vozili.
V Saultu je Baraga moral odsloviti duhovnika, ki je prišel za Bourionom. Spet je moral vso zimo biti sam za vse. Gašper je imel mnogo sitnosti. Že se je menil, da bo šel proč. Baraga bi bil lahko nastavil v Saultu Flannigana ali si od drugod vzel duhovnika v pomoč, a so se mu ljudje povsod smilili.
Tisto leto, 16. avgusta, mu je Kongregacija za širjenje vere odobrila nova Statuta (Odredbe), ki jih je bil poslal prejšnje leto v potrjenje. Pregledal jih je bil nadškof iz New Orleansa ob izlivu Mississippija. Alojzij Barnabd, ki je medtem postal iz tajnika Kongregacije njen predsednik, mu je nekatere točke popravil. Ta Statuta je Baraga dal tiskati naslednje leto.
Na Štefanji dan, 26. decembra, je pa pisal detroitskemu škofu Lefčvru zelo ostre besede zoper tiste, ki odvračajo duhovnike, da ne pridejo v saultsko škofijo. “Ko so ladje prihajale in odhajale, sem zmerom upal, da se bo pripeljal duhovnik, za katerega sem bil pisal prečastitemu rektorju de Neve; zdaj pa vidim, da ga ne bo. Kdor mu je odsvetoval iti v to škofijo, bo z menoj vred nosil odgovornost za mašniško posvečenje, ki sem ga podelil bogoslovcu, ki se še ni mogel dovolj pripraviti. Na nekaterih krajih moram imeti duhovnike. Ta škofija ni kakor druge, kjer so župnije blizu skupaj in je medsebojni stik poleti in pozimi lahak. Tukaj so pa duhovniki ponekod po več sto milj vsaksebi, občevanje je težko ali pa sploh nemogoče, zlasti pozimi. Tukaj imam bogoslovca, ki še ni dovolj pripravljen; prisiljen sem, da ga bom poleti posvetil; in tisti, ki z nasveti odvrača duhovnike, da ne pridejo k meni, naj z menoj nosi krivdo.” - Ni težko uganiti, zakaj je to pisal ravno škofu Lefšvru. Omenili smo že, da je škof Lefšvre tudi naslednje leto hotel pridržati zase duhovnika Van der Bonna.
Tisto leto 1862 je država morala iz trdnjav, ki jih je postavila po indijanskih krajih, poklicati večino vojaštva, ker ga je potrebovala za vojsko. Že 700.000 vojakov iz severnih in južnih držav je obležalo na bojiščih. Cele pokrajine so bile opustošene in požgane. Država je bila v hudih denarnih stiskah in že nekaj let
ni mogla Indijancem dati plače. Indijanci so očitno kazali svoj gnev do belih. Divji rod Sju ob Mississippiju je z indijansko hladno maščevalnostjo in krutostjo obračunal z njimi; mučil jih je in moril, otroke so pribijali na stene hiš ali so jim pa sekali ud za udom.
Da bi Indijanci v L’Ansu ne začeli misliti na kakšen upor, jim je Baraga preskrbel še okoli 200 hektarjev zemlje. Šest hektarjev je določil za novo cerkev, ki jo je postavil Terhorst leta 1873. Indijanci v L’Ansu so ostali mirni, kakor tudi po drugih krajih Baragove škofije. To jim je bilo v veliko korist.
LETO 1863
Leto 1863 se je za Barago slabo začelo. Zbolel mu je sluga, zato si je moral sam kuriti in kuhati. Bil je torej škof, župnik, cerkovnik, kuhar in sluga obenem, čeprav je bil že star in bolehem. Dne 2. aprila je v žalostnem razpoloženju pisal na Dunaj: “Tu mi je zavoljo moje starosti zelo težavno. Tako n. pr. sem moral ondan iti k neki bolni osebi celih 20 milj (32 km) daleč; tja in nazaj sem šel po ledu in snegu in v silnem mrazu. Imam več vasi v (saultski župniji), ki so 10, 12 ali 15 milj (16, 20 ali 24 km) daleč. Najbolj žalostno pa je, ker ne vem, kdaj bo tega konec, ko ga pa nimam duhovnika, ki bi ga mogel poklicati semkaj. Vsak od mojih 15-ih duhovnikov je na svojem mestu tako potreben, da z mirno vestjo nobenega ne morem proč vzeti. Danes, na veliki četrtek, sem moral sveta olja čisto sam posvetiti. To se sme seveda samo v skrajni sili, ki ne pozna nobene zapovedi. Morda se je danes to zgodilo še kakšnemu zapuščenemu škofu na Kitajskem ali v kakšni drugi deželi Azije. Naj bo moja stiska potožena Bogu!”
Prosil je sosednje škofe za enega duhovnika, vsaj za eno leto, da bi ga nastavil v Saultu. Spomladi ga je zelo vleklo na škofovsko vizitacijo, a ni nikamor mogel. Pisal je jezuitu o. Kohlerju, naj za nekaj tednov pride, sam se je pa odpravil proti Detroitu, trdno odločen, da se ne vrne brez duhovnika. Pa ga tudi tam ni dobil. Detroitski jezuiti so mu za čez poletje poslali enega od svojih.
Njegov zaupnik Edvard Jacker je opravljal dušno pastirstvo v rudniških mestih Houghtonu in Hancocku. Imel je velike težave in si je v srcu želel proč; ni pa hotel ravnati proti škofovi volji. Dne 16. maja 1863 mu je Baraga pisal zaupno pismo, ki priča o njegovi globoki ponižnosti, pa tudi, kako potrt je takrat spet bil. Piše mu: “Moj preljubi sin v Kristusu! Vi ste moja največja, po večini edina tolažba v mojih vsakovrstnih skrbeh in ponižanijih. Posebno me je do dna srca razveselila junaška beseda, ki sem jo danes bral v Vašem pismu: 'Če pa ne bom dočakal, da bo moje mesto prevzel drug duhovnik, bom moral biti tukaj zadovoljen'. Da, zares, biti popolnoma zadovoljen z odredbami Vašega škofa, ki jih z vso gotovostjo morete sprejeti kot božje odredbe: to je najbolj varna pot proti Vaši večni sreči. Zdaj Vam dam vse na izbiro; moje odob-renje in moj slabotni blagoslov imate nad vsem, kar boste ukrenili. O da bi bil jaz svetnik, da bi Vam mogel podeliti močan blagoslov! Svoje neznatnosti in nezmožnosti nisem še nikdar tako občutil kakor zdaj. Vendar Bogu hvala za vsa ponižanja, ki mi jih pripusti! Dobro mi je, Gospod, da si me ponižal."
Kako potrta in ponižana je morala biti njegova duša, da so mu pod pero prišle take besede!
Tisto leto 1863 je še mladi in delavni misijonar Andrej Andolšek odšel na zahod, v škofijo San Francisco ob Tihem oceanu. Eno leto po Baragovi smrti se je zopet vrnil v marquettsko škofijo, ki jo je takrat vodil • škof Mrak. Umrl je leta 1882 v Eagle Harborju. Njegov nagrobnik še stoji.
7. julija se je pa prišel Baragi osebno ponudit v Sault za njegovo škofijo 19-letni študent Janez Vrtin, ki je za Mrakom postal njegov naslednik v škofovstvu. Rodil se je 17. julija 1844 v Dobličah pri Črnomlju v Beli Krajini. Oče je imel majhno posestvo; ker je zemlja slabo rodila, je krošnjaril po nemških krajih in tako preživljal svojo družino. Od štirih otrok je bil Janez drugi. Leta 1852 je oče s prvo slovensko izseljensko skupino odšel v Ameriko in leto 1861 vso družino poklical v Houghton. Jacker in Čebulj sta Janeza, ki se je odločil za duhovski stan, napotila k Baragi. Ta ga je sprejel; zaradi vojske so pa bila duhovska semenišča zaprta in Čebulj je moral Vrtina sam učiti modroslovja in modernih jezikov, dokler ga po končani vojski niso sprejeli v semenišče v Milwaukeeju.
Na škofovski vizitaciji ob Gorenjem jezeru leta 1863 je moralo biti, kar piše zdravnik dr. Ely o Baragi: "Štiri leta pred smrtjo je bil na osemdnevni vožnji na čolnu izpostavljen dežju in mrazu; in od posledic te vožnje se nikoli več ni mogel popolnoma pozdraviti."
NADALJEVANJE
Prisrčno domače, vesele božične praznike in srečno, blagoslovljeno novo leto!
Cvetko Golar
BOŽIČ
Glejte, kaj nocoj se sveti?
Kdo mi more razodeti?
Vsi osupli križajo se pastirci, nižajo.
Angelci se, do zemljice, nesejo jih perutnice.
O, pozdravljeni vsi trije,
Jožef, Bogek, sin Marije in preljuba božja mati
Tu naš Jezušček je mali ki smo dolgo ga iskali: pokleknimo in molimo kralja našega častimo.
ŠT. 39, BIWABIK, MN
Oktoberski sestanek naše podružnice se je vršil prvo nedeljo v mesecu. Bil je to krasen dan v svojih očarljivih jesenskih barvah. Samo mesec dni kasneje, za naše novem-bersko srečanje pa smo prišle skupaj v prvem snežnem viharju in poledelenih cestah. Kljub temu je bilo število članic nadvse presenetljivo, saj nas je bilo kar 32.
Vendar se bom vrnila nazaj v oktober za trenutek, kaj se je tedaj napravilo za našo podružnico. Predvsem to, da smo naredile nekaj dobrega v daru $100.00 za Baragov potovalni muzej, kateri se pripravlja zadnje mesece. Prejele pa dar od družine Pocrnich, v spomin umrle žene, Joan.
Z veseljem smo pozdravile Mary Berknes, ki si je zopet opomogla in prišla med nas po daljši bolezni.
Ann Geržina je poslala več kartic bolnim in tudi družinam pokojnih članic. Ona je naša “Sunshine Lady” in zelo zvesto vrši svoje delo. Hvala, Ann!
Ker nimamo še stalne zapisnikarice, so se prijavile naslednje članice, da bodo to storile v izmenjavi: Carol Sherek, Vida Lanari, Betty Anderson in Mary Lou Crotty. Še vedno pa je odprto mesto za dopisovanje v Zarjo. In Eleanor Indi-har se je ponudila, da bo nadomes-tovala predsednico, kadar bo ta odsotna.
Vse članice so bile naprošene, da prinesejo svoj najboljši kuhinjski recept na drugi sestanek, da bomo tako sodelovale pri novi kuharski knjigi, ki jo pripravlja Slovenska Ženska Zveza.
K današnjemu novemberskemu sestanku pa smo povabile tudi sestre članice iz Aurore. Udeležile so se v lepem številu, kljub zelo slabemu vremenu. Še pred začetkom nas je Carol Sherek razveselila z igranjem njene "button box" harmonike in večina je kmalu poprijela in zapele smo naše priljubljene slovenske pesmi.
Predsednica Kathy Siskar je želela, da se vsaka nato predstavi in pove nekaj v Slovenščini.
Zanimivo je bilo slišati ta odmev, posebno nekaterih. Večina naših članic razume nekaj, pa težje izgovarja po Slovensko.
Sklenile smo, da bo naš božični sestanek in božičnica združen na nedeljo 4. januarja. Vse so bile s tem zadovoljne, saj imamo popreje toliko drugega.
Vse članice, ki so pri Zvezi 50 ali več let bodo počaščene s posebno značko za kar bosti poskrbele predsednica in tajnica.
Končale smo lepo popoldne z dobro zakusko, katero so pripravile ob izredno lepo dekorirani mizi članice: Millie Mstnik, Eine Karish, Ann Geržina in Carol Sherek, Ki je spet poskrbela za lepe melodije, dokler se nismo vesele vračale domov - seveda v snežnem viharju, ki ni hotel ponehati.
Ker je to zadnje poročilo v zarji pred prazniki, želim vesem in vsaki posebej blagoslovljen Božič in zdravo ter zadovoljno Novo Leto.
ANNETUSHAR
I was born Julie Ann Partyka, on August 17, 1983 in Palos Community Hospital, at 9:03 p.m., weighing in at 7 lbs. 8 oz. and 21 inches long. I was the little sister to one big brother, Michael who was 2-1/2 years older. At this time 1 lived on the south side of Chicago, with my parents, Edward and Mary Ann.
I went to Tarkington Pre School, and Hurley Elementary School, up until 5th grade. In the 3rd grade 1 won a math contest, and my name made the papers, as well as my trophy.
I was involved with many, other outside of school activities. 1 was in. Girl Scouts, Gymnastics, and Sewing Classes. I was in many of the school plays, including being Mrs. Claus in the Christmas play. We were to begin another play and I was a main character, unfortunately the show was never put on.
%
In February of ’91, I stood up to my Aunt Laurie’s wedding. I was the flower girl, walking down the aisle with a excited, yet scared smile on my face. The reception followed immediately after the ceremony, and I was tired from all the dancing. My next big event happened on May 2nd 1992 when I made my First Holy Communion at Queen of the Universe Church in Chicago.
August of 1993, was a big change for my family and me. We all packed up and moved to Naperville. My parents found the family a nice three bedroom ranch, with plenty of room for the four of us.
I started the 5th grade, beginning at Clow Elementary School, in which I was fortunate. I was able to start in a school with 2 classes of each grade level, which made it easy for me. The following year I went into Gregory Middle Schol, with more students I hadn’t even seen, but I had my few friends from Clow, that helped me get through it. During this one year at Clow, I was a Safety Patrol Leader, Choir member, and I won a President’s Choice Award.
So, here I was at Gregory Middle School, I liked it, I guess. I had more friends than I thought I would make, being a new kid and all. I was involved in the choirs all three years at Gregory. In my last two, we made 1st place in
Middle School Choirs in Illinois. I also was in Student Council, school plays, and Yearbook Club. Before I knew it, it was time to graduate. The Class of 1997 graduated on June 2nd 1997, at Calvary Temple in Naperville. It was a happy, yet sad day for me, but it’s one day I’ll never forget. Hey, I was a Graduate of Gregory Middle School’s Class of 1997! I did it!
Now, I go to Neuqua Valley High School, and I love it. It’s a brand new school, built with $64 million dollars. I’m in the Star Raiders program, which is a club to help show the younger kids that drugs and alcohol don’t do anything good for you, and never to do it. For now, that’s all I’m involve in and I’m sure that there are more clubs and activities that are right for me.
Besides doing activities, I was very involved with my family events as well. My mom’s family is very large, and extremely close. We have a lot of family get togethers, and we enjoy every moment of it. Every year we plan a bon fire, and or a beach party. Now, one of my aunt and uncles have purchased a summer home in Indiana, and we make this an annual vacation for the entire family, all twenty-four of us. We have a blast!
I have a huge extended family, and I enjoy every minute that I can spend with them. I have twin two year old
cousins, Emily, and Kimberly, that I just adore, along with their six month old sister, Alyssa. I babysit for them quite often, which is a lot of fun. I don’t consider it babysitting, it’s more like just spending time with my cousins. Next to these three cousins, I have more!! I have Billy, who is my brother’s age, and lives across the street. He’s a really fun person to be with. Then, there’re my cousins, Olivia, Matthew, Thomas and Mary, they live down the street!! They’re a great bunch of kids, and like to enjoy their time with the family as well. When I’m not spending time with the entire family, I’m just babysitting for them! It’s not often, but when I’m there, I have fun! Olivia comes to my house a few times a month or so after school, and we talk, play a game or two, and then watch our favorite show, Full House!! One Christmas, she and
I	had practiced songs, and we sang them for the family. We had actions too, that was a lot of fun! My other seven cousins are on my dad’s side of the family. I don’t see them as often, but when I do, we talk and catch up on the things that are happening in our neighborhoods.
Well, I think that about wraps up my life story, as of now. As I continue to write for the ZARJA magazine, you will find out more about me! I hope you’ve enjoyed it, I did! Thank you for reading all about me!
Do drugič,
Tvoja prijateljica, Julie
THE BELLS AT CHRISTMAS TIME
The bells at Christmastime always have a beautiful chime. The bells have shiny gold layer,
I	just need to have one!
I	just can’t wait to see. Nothing else can catch me except... THE BELLS AT CHRISTMASTIME!!!!
Written by Stephanie Majercik, Age 9 (St. Martin of Tours School)
Member of Branch No. 73
Accepted and published in the
1997 Edition of "Anthology of Poetry by
Young Americans"
Junior Heritage News and Views
Irene Odorizzi, Heritage Director
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OUR JUNIORS!
SWU JUNIOR OF THE MONTH
Junior Member, Missy McLaughlin,
Assists With Heritage Sales
Bonnie Prokup, Regional President for Illinois-Indiana, recently sent me a letter about the regional convention held in October in LaSalle, IL and 1 thought that junior members (and maybe the adults) would be interested in hearing about a special junior member who assisted at the 111.-Ind. Regional convention with the sale of heritage items.
Missy McLaughlin, eleven years old, and a junior member of branch 24 attended the Convention. That’s very significant in itself! Bonnie Prokup mentioned that besides her two daughters and a cousin. Missy was the youngest member under the age of 27 present that day.
Let me quote part of Bonnie’s letter:
"Without her I would have gone crazy. / was very lucky to have her there because as State President I didn't have time to be selling the heritage items. It took away from people who wanted to meet and talk with me. Because of her / was able to still mingle, conduct the meeting, organize the day’s events and still see that the items were being sold.”
I’d like to personally thank Missy for coming to Bonnie’s assistance at a critical time. In a very mature way she accepted the responsibility and sold $400 of heritage books, stationery, aprons, shirts, bumper stickers and the like. Missy has proven herself to be a worthy example of SWU Junior of the month. We are proud of her.
Thanks Missy and PLEASE keep active in your branch and the SWU activities. The organization needs young ladies like you to continue in the path of our immigrant pioneers.
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Branch Officers,
won’t you nominate an active junior member who has contributed in some way to the organization? Send a short letter stating why you have nominated the junior and a photo. It will be printed on this page.
OUR JUNIOR WRITES INTERESTING ESSAY
BISHOP FREDERIC BARAGA
Frederic Baraga was born and baptized in Slovenia on June 29, 1797. Baraga had a normal childhood and was religious. He liked the outdoors very much. As a child he was a very good artist. He was very educated and learned many languages. When he was a little bit older he went to law school in Vienna. During that time he was thinking of becoming a missionary so he joined the seminary in 1821 and was ordained in 1823. After 7 years he went to the U.S. for missionary work.
When he got there he went to Cincinnati. For his first assignment he went to Michigan. He studied and wrote books about the Indian language. He said mass and taught the Indians in there (sic) own language. He traveled all through the upper midwest doing missionary work. He had to ask for money from Europe to do this. Baraga stood up for Indians rights and also worked with other missionaries.
Baraga started writing a diary in 1852 and his diary was about his travels and his work. He was named the snow-shoe priest because that’s how he probably got around. He moved to Marquee (sic) in 1866 and died in 1868.
He was the author of the first grammar book for the Ojibwa. He taught the Indians agricultural skills and built schools and churches for them He supported the Indians rights and told others to also.	Chris	Tezak,	Grade	5
St. Joseph School, Joliet, IL
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(Forethought Trust) American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ)
Call for information and a free booklet "For Future Reference" (815) 722-0524
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/1 LONELY PLANET TRAVEL BOOK BY STEVE FALLON
SLOVENIA
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Cost is $16.00 ($13.95 plus $2.05 postage and handling)
Proceeds from the sale of SLOVENIA will go toward our 1999 Convention Fund.
Slovenian Women's Union is proud to bring our members and friends the availability of SLOVENIA at nominal cost and convenience. Please send your orders to
Kathleen M. Emerson, Women’s Activity Director,
41 Sparrow Hill, Orion, MI 48359.
HOMES IN THE JOLIET AREA
COLDWELL BANKER HONIG-BELL Realty
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ROSANNE RUTH
REALTOR
Member ol Branch 20, S. W. U.