ZARJA - THE DAWN URADNO GLASILO OFFICIAL PUBLICATION SLOVENSKE ZENSKE ZVEZE V AMERIKI SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA NUMBER 11 NOVEMBER, 1994 VOLUME 66 Happy Thanksgiving says little Tony McDonell, age 5, of Duluth, Minnesota, who grew this mammoth pumpkin in his hack yard. It'll make lots of pumpkin pies for ^hagkSgRfoi^^^ir^nr^MMMn<>nM»i^n»n^mj)ag^()L^^ ywrunriSB ZARJA - THE DAWN (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 NO. 11 NOVEMBER, 1994 VOL. 66 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress Official Publication of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Zenske Zveze. Published monthly except January, June A August — izhaja vsak mesec razen januar, junij in avgust. Annual Subscription for non-members, $15.00 — naročnina $15.00 letno za ne-članice. Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (SIS) 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: 4X51 S. Drexel lilvd., Chicago, IL 60615 Telephone: (312) 548-8878 22ND NATIONAL CONVENTION Slovenian Women’s Union of America May 18 - 21, 1995 San Francisco, California HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN NOVEMBER National Officers: Nov. II - Mary Muller, Past Nat'l Pres., Oakbrook, IL Nov. 16 - Marion Marolt, Nat’l Auditor, West Allis, WI Presidents: Nov. 5 -Nov. 7 -Nov. 9 -Nov. 13 -Nov. 13 -Nov. 20 -Nov. 23 -Nov. 28 -Nov. 24 - Secretaries: Nov. 10 Nov. II Nov. 13 Nov. 15 Nov. 21 Genevieve Grile, Br. 85, Depue, IL Rose Trombley, Br. 52, Kitzville, MN Beverly Menart, Br. 33, Duluth, MN Josephine Auito, Br. 13, San Fran., CA Antonia Kostelec, Br. 64, Kans. City, KS Marcella Zupee, Br. 23, Ely, MN Steffie Segulin, Br. 10, Cleveland, OH Valeria Carlson, Br. 56, Hibbing. MN Josephine Kassen, Br. 54, Warren, OH Alice Cacich, Br. 33, Duluth, MN Regina Cop, Br. 64, Kansas City, KS Dorothy Jamnik, Br. 35, Aurora, MN Dolores Hennelly, Br. 95, So. Chicago, IL Josephine Jacobs, Br. 106, Meadowlands, PA DATES TO REMEMBER Nov 10 PENNY SOCIAL, Br. 2, Chicago, IL, doors open at 6 p.m. Nov 13 ANNUAL POULTRY CARD PARTY, Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Schedule of Meetings & Events Thursday, May 18, 1995 7 p.m. Registration at Canterbury Hotel ^ ^ ^ Friday, May 19, 1995 8:30 a.m. Opening Ceremony - Keynote Address 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Convention Meeting/Session I Free Afternoon and Evening (See sight-seeing schedule) }f» rft Saturday, May 20, 1995 8:00 a.m. Convention Photo, Convention Meeting/Session II Free Afternoon and Evening (See sight-seeing schedule) * * * Sunday, May 21, 1995 8:30 a.m. Convention Meeting/Session III 10:30 a.m. Meeting of Newly-elected Board 2 p.m. Holy Mass, Convention Banquet and Adjournment See pages 1, 14, and 15 for more detailed Convention Information. CHRISTMAS PARTIES Nov 16 CHRISTMAS PARTY, Br. 10, Cleveland, OH Dec. 1 CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON, Br. 5, Indianapolis, IN, SND Dec. 3 JUNIOR CHRISTMAS PARTY, Br. 2, Chicago, IL at noon Dec. 3 CHRISTMAS PARTY, Br. 95. So. Chicago, IL Dec. 4 ADVENT PARTY, Br. 35, Aurora, MN. Community Bldg. 3 p.m. Dec. 4 POT LUCK LUNCH, Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH, SND Maple Hts., 1 p.m. Dec. 6 CHRISTMAS PARTY, Br. 14, Euclid. OH, 6 p.m. SSH Recher Ave., call 481-7473 or 585-4227 Dec. 7 CHRISTMAS/ELECTION MEETING. Br. 33. Duluth, MN Dec. 7 CHRISTMAS DINNER, Br. 40, Lorain, OH, German Villa, I p.m‘. Call Agnes, 245-3919 Dec. 11 ANNUALCHRISTMAS DINNER, Br. 50. Euclid, 011 Dec. 14 CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON, Br. 54, Warren, OH, Elks on Rt. 422, I p.m. Dec. 15 CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR ADULTS, Br. 2, Chicago, IL following Mass at Stephen's at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 18 CHRISTMAS PARTY, Br. 17, West Allis, WI after the meeting. MOORE GLASS, INC. We specialize in... Auto Glass & Thermopane Replacements Plate Glass • Mirrors • Furniture Tops Storm Windows & Doors • Windshield Repair 559 N. Chicago St. L Joliet, IL 60435 (815) 722-7007 Fax (815) 723-8979 i NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE VITAL INFORMATION FOR DELEGATE ELECTION Resuming our fall meetings and getting back to normality after a relaxing summer required a hit of effort and focus. With three months of recuperation after my surgery and six weeks of therapy (left hand remains in a splint). I’m eager to catch up on S. W.U. business. A sincere thank you for your prayers, get-well cards and gifts received after my surgery. It was gratifying to hear from so many of you during my lengthy recuperation. Continue sending cards to members and friends who are ill; this is truly Christian sisterhood in action! Election of delegates and alternates will be within the 3 month period consisting of October, November and December for the S.W.U. National Convention in San Francisco.* Article 4:12 clearly states the requirements on page 18 of the Bylaws. Each branch of the Adult Department shall be entitled to one (1) delegate. Branches with 201 to 400 members will be entitled to two (2) delegates and branches with more than 401 are entitled to three (3) delegates. No branch is entitled to more than three (3) delegates. Criteria necessary to be eligible to be a delegate or alternate are as follows: I) She must be 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen and member in good standing. 2) She must be a member for at least one (1) year. 3) She must have attended 5 meetings during the year prior to June 30, 1994. 4) Attendance and membership requirements may be waived in case of newly organized branches. 5) To be elected delegate or alternate the individual members must receive A MAJORITY of votes cast during her branch’s delegate and alternate elections. Delegate credentials shall be signed by the President, Secretary and Treasurer presiding at the election at the meeting. Two (2) copies of the credentials are signed. One copy is mailed to the Home Office no later than the.Jan. 5, 1995 deadline. The second copy is presented to the Credentials Committee by the elected delegate or alternate at the time of registration at the Convention Headquarters in San Francisco. This was one of the most disturbing situations which can be avoided by a careful reading of the instructions. Hopefully we’ve learned from our past experiences. Convention Chairman, Barbara Chiodo mailed every Branch and all National Officers detailed information sheets telling us of the planned tours and they are outstanding. Superb tours and delicious cuisine in San Francisco will be discussed over and over again upon your return. Please be generous in submitting ads as host Branch 13 requires our whole-hearted cooperation in order to finance this Convention in 1995. Our children and grandchildren are back to school; give them our support, encouragement and love. Take time to listen to them and give them a sense of self-esteem which is extremely important today. Our prayers to all students for perseverance and Christian ethics during these troubling times in the world. Don’t forget to purchase chances on the Slovenian Doll Couple raffle which will be drawn at the SWU National Convention next May. Help support the S.W.U. Heritage Museum! We’re most appreciative of Vice President Beverly Jackson’s talents and dedication. Let us be grateful for the bountiful harvests, the beautified season of autumn, the love of family and triends, and with gratitude we remember our parents and those who lived before us and passed on a legacy that enriches us. HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY! Victoria "Tory” Bobencc Founders' Day is observed in November in tribute to the love and devotion of our organizers. May God bless them all. '--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- j NOVEMBER, 1994 /1 Irene M. Odorizzi, Heritage Director HISTORY OF S.W.U. BRANCHES Looking Back to the Future BR. #24, LASALLE, ILLINOIS Anne \\ angler, President of Branch 24 and reporter for ZARJA, was requested by the officers of her branch to write the history of #24, after they all gathered as much information as they could find for this report. . imu w IADIIS _ J zm\ UNION I kJ^Nunf w -lirmritt: A picture from the founding year of Br. 24 - it’s a treasure! Wc learned from two of our long-standing members, Emma Shimkus and Mary Gornik, that Br. 24 was formed in Oct. 1928, with 36 members. Julia Gottlieb came from Chicago, accompanied by Mrs. Prisland, and met at the home of Julia Furlan. There had been an earlier attempt to organize a branch in La Salic but it was not successful and lasted only a short time. The 1928 Charter members were: Mary Baznik, Veronica Brate, Mary Dolanc, Julia Furlan, Mary Gregovich, Caroline Hrovat, Mary Jaklich, Mary Kastigar, Frances Meglan, Antonia Retzel, Mary Setina, Mary Sodac, Angela Strukel, Mary Strukel, Catherine Tostavarsnik, Rose Urbane and Frances Terdin, all of whom are deceased. The early records of Br. 24 have disappeared so we don’t know who the first officers were. We’re certain that Angela Strukel was an early financial secretary because most of our current members applied for membership due to her efforts during her many years in office. Meetings were held in St. Roch’s School on Sunday afternoons and later were moved to the third Thursday of the month and are held in the evening at La Salle Catholic School Library — Resurrection Building. January, February, July and August meetings were discontinued some years ago as attendance was very poor during very cold or very hot weather. HISTORY Angela Strukel was (he moving force behind the growth of Hr. 24 from its formative years until 1970 when she passed away. During her secretaryship she was dedicated to each and every member’s welfare. CHARITIES Through the years we contributed to our Catholic School, to the local library and St. Bede's Academy Library, to Easter Seals, to Horizon House, our local center for training the handicapped and mentally retarded. Wc had a food booth when the city of La Salle celebrated it's 125th anniversary. All ethnic groups participated at this large picnic in Pulaski Park, featuring their special foods. SINGERS ANI) BAKERS We weren't able to form any of the special groups such as cadets, folk dancing, choral groups, sewing circles, etc., but members enjoyed singing at meetings and at Christmas visited shut-ins at home and nursing homes, bringing Christmas goodies and singing Slovenian Christmas Carols. A group of members, called “Bingo Bakers” met at the school every Tuesday and baked Apple Strudels and made Krofe and all sorts of goodies to be sold at the weekly games. The profits were a big financial help to St. Roch’s School. NURSING HOME VISITS In a ZARJA article the reporter wrote about a visit to the Nursing Home. "On Dec. 14, 1075, we visited our members in the nursing home for the holidays. We sang songs in Slovenian and English. We also brought cakes from home that were decorated beautifully for the holidays... It was very cold outdoors but no one got sick because they came out." CURRENT OFFICERS OF BR. 24 PAST OFFICERS We can’t list all past officers as we have no records but some names come to mind—Angela Strukel, Emma Shimkus, Mary Krogulski, Mary Piletič, Josephine Horzen, Mary Kastigar, Anna Lushina, Theresa Savnik, Mary Gramc, Nellie Mochnik, Wanita Helmer, Mary Gornik, Julia Furlan and all those charter members who worked so hard to organize this branch. We remember Fannie Kobilsek and Rose Furlan who gave of their handiwork, crocheted afghans, which we used as fund raisers, all of the ladies who donated baked goods for our bake sales, and items for yard sales, etc. Our members who contributed to ZARJA, especially Emma Shimkus who wrote a woman’s fashion column for many years and Frances Jancer who wrote “Woman’s Glory-The Kitchen" recipe section (then as now, recipes are the most-clipped and saved part of our ZARJA). President: Vice-President: Recording Secretary: Financial Secretary: T reasurer Auditor: Auditor: Spiritual Advisor: Zarja Reporter: Anne Marie Wangler Minnie Carter Adele Gensler Betty Stack Ann Serri Jo Foley Terese Kinczewski Rev. John Onderko Anne Marie Wangler Theresa Wellner, lead singer during the 111.-Ind. State Convention of 1986, Ann Marie Wangler, President of Br. 24 and Angie Nico (89) then State President. B ZT' ‘ *0(^itchen Frances Jancar (f— ■ =^. S.W.U. HISTORY i HOWLING Officers in 1978 were Wanita Helmer, Secretary, Mary Gornik, Auditor, Nellie Mocnik, Vice-Pres., Mary Gramc, President, Mary Piletič, Recording Sec’y and Emma Shimkus, Auditor. Branch 24 had an active howling league for more than 40 years. Our bowling teams competed in all Midwest Tournaments anil hosted several tournaments at the Palace Bowling Alley and also at Pla-Mor Alleys in La Salle. Agnes Ostrowski remains the last bowler of those earlier teams and until recently bowled in a Monday Night Ladies League. The teams won many trophies and individual awards and celebrated with annual bowling banquets. ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Branch anniversaries called for special celebrations. The tenth anniversary was noted with a wonderful play “Andrej in. Njegov Zločin” which was directed by Emma Shimkus and was very successful. The twenty-fifth Anniversary was celebrated with a Mass at St. Roch’s Church, Rev. Michael Železnikar as celebrant, followed by a dinner at St. Roch’s School. Our fiftieth anniversary was observed in conjunction with the Illinois-Indiana State Convention hosted by Branch 24 on October 8, 1978. After the business meeting, a noon Mass was celebrated by Rev. Bernard Horzen, OSB in St. Roch’s Church followed by a dinner catered by the Paramount Club, in St. Roch’s School. Rev. Bernard was the principal speaker after the dinner, which featured greetings by Rev. Michael Železnikar, Rev. Richard Fitzsimmons, Asst. Pastor; Deacon Charles Burgess; Mayor Al Gunia of La Salle; Anne Vucko, Illinois-Indiana State President and Corinne Leskovar, Editor of ZARJA. A memorial service for our deceased members followed. A musical program followed with several numbers by St. Roch’s Choir, vocal solos by Frank Uranieh, Jr. who was ordained a Vincentian priest in 1990, and member Marianne Schweickert who is now Minister of Music and Choir Diretor at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Aurora, IL. The program closed with several Slovenian numbers by the “Starlites” a musical combo comprised of the grand children of Mary Ajster, a member. Their music brought many of those present to their feet to dance. Officers at that time were: Mary Gramc, President; Nellie Mochnik, Vice-President; Wanita Helmer, Financial Secretary; Mary Piletič, Corresponding Secretary; Ann Serri, Treasurer; Mary Gornik and Emma Shimkus, Auditors; Helen Gorgal, Sergeant-at-Arms. Emma Shimkus was General Chairman of the 50th anniversary activities, Mary Gramc, her co-chairman. LASALLE CHAMPS, winners of the 18th annual Bowling Tournament held in LaSalle in 1954: (top), Evelyn Kastigar, Jo Foley, Ann Pelko, Capt., Ann Tolan and Mary Gramc. (bottom), Junior team members: Ann Marie Wangler, Capt., Marlene Anglevar, Theresa Rogel, Jean Kragulski and Bernadine Ahina. NEW MEMBERS Although it’s been difficult to replace the many members who have passed away in recent years, Br. 24 has diligently enrolled 15 adult members since 1990 and 5 juveniles. In 1993 alone, they brought in 14 in all classes! Hardest working current campaigner has been Josephine Grabowski, and many other officers and members are on the campaign trail, too! " ■ ^ S.W.U. HISTORY MEMBERS WHO RECEIVED 50-YEAR AWARDS CURRENT MEMBERS 1983 Josephine Omahen 1983 Anna PIonian 1983 Mary Sever 1983 Emma Shimkus 1983 Marie Washkowiak 1984 Josephine Foley 1984 Mary Gornik 1984 Mary Janko 1984 Anna Klopcic 1984 Gale Nowik 1984 Marie Pyszka 1985 Justine Anglavar 1985 Agnes Kastigar 1985 Stefanie Kohilsek 1985 Fannie Piletič 1986 Anna Lushina 1987 Frances Baznik 1987 Agnes Hartley 1988 Christine Witek 1988 Josephine Savnik 1988 Wanita Helmer 1988 Mary Gramc 1988 Gale Dolanc 1989 Olga Fritz 1989 Antonia Jakse Justine Anglavar Gerry Bima Marion Borisek Sharon Brady Mary Ann Brunner Minnie Carter Ann Cassidy Susan Ficek Collins Sharon Dobovsky Deborah Dobrydnia Anne Dresen Frances J. Ficek Josephine Foley Olga Fritz Rose Furlan Michele M. Gende Theresa Gende Adele Gensler Mary Gornik Josephine Grabowski Jane Gruenwald Doris Hallett Wanita Helmer Mary Hewitt Theresa Hollerich Antonia Hoefferle Paula Jean lllman Theresa G. Jensen Mary Gertrude Johnson Anne Kastigar Evelyn Kastigar Teresa Kinczewski Stefanie Kobilsek Barbara Krogulski Darline Kreuger Cathy Jo Lenkaitis Anna Lushina Anne Matthews Marie L. Mutual Irene Mauser Rosemary McLaughlin Shirley J. Miller Gale Nowik Dorothy Parola Anne Pieczynski Mary Ann Pieczynski Ann Piletič Fannie Piletič Sherri Plowman Barbara Pohar Debby Pohar Mary Ann Potthoff Bonnie Jean Prokup Audrey Prokuski Frances Puetz Rita Mae Pyszka Elizabeth Ritz Josephine Savnik Theresa Savnik Marianne Sch weickert Mary Senica Ann Serri Mary Sever Johanna Sherman Florence Smorkol Josephine Spayer Betty Stack Loretta C. Story Alvina Ann Strukel Helen Swietek Anne Marie Wangler Julie Ann Weber Mary Ann Weber Mildred Welch Theresa Wellner JUNIORS: Josephine Brady Ashley Collins Caitlin Collins Kaycie Plowman Abby T. Schweickert Amy Lynn Schweickert Julie Ann Wangler Brenda Weber Mr. & Mrs. ,Joe Piletič Fannie and Joe celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary this year and she is a 59-year member! Our congratulations! Diligent Reporters Branch 24 always has had a real sense of the importance of our ZARJA publication, and as many other branches, has had a number of very diligent reporters in both the Slovenian and English languages. During her days as Secretary. Angela Strukel also wrote monthly articles for Br. 24. Ann Pelko was her English language counterpart. Later, Mary “Mici” Piletič was a regular reporter and great activist for the branch. Ann Wangler is not only the secretary now, but has been reporting for many years as well. The members appreciate the work of these wonderful officers. I hank you Anne, (or taking the responsibility of reporting the history of your branch. It would be a shame if the information was lost. Hopefully, someone in the branch will continue your efforts now that the work has been started. Irene Odorizzi JURISDICTIONAL CONVENTION REPORTS Minnesota State Day The Minnesota State Convention of the Slovenian Women’s Union was called to order at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 11, 1994, at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Hibbing, Minnesota, President Jean Korsman presiding. Hibbing Branch 56 Vice President Ann Satovich welcomed the 136 members and guests. Special guests. National President Tory Bobence and State President Korsman were presented carnation corsages. Vice President Ann Orazem led the group in prayer, asking for God’s blessing on the day’s activities and praying that the annual gathering be fruitful and inspirational. Anna Rose Smolich, long time member of Branch 35, Aurora, MN, accompanied the group on the piano as Anna Hodnik directed the group in singing “Our Common Bond" and the Angelus. President Korsman addressed the group, thanking all the members of Branch 56 for their diligent cllorts and long hours spent planning and preparing for the day, our 37th annual Minnesota Convention. A special note of appreciation was extended to Chairman Ann Satovich, President Valeria Carlson, Secretary Mary Micheletti, and Program Chair Liz Spolar, who took on the responsibility of coordinating all the events. Minn. Secretary-Treasurer Dorothy Jamnik read the minutes of last year's convention and gave the treasurer’s report. Branch reports were given by the following: Branch 19 Eveleth/Virginia; Branch 23 Ely; Branch 33 Duluth; Branch 34 Tower-Soudan; Branch 35 Aurora; Branch 38 Chisholm; Branch 39 Biwabik; Branch 56 Hibbing. Keewa-tin and Crosby have no meetings. Several branches introduced their "Mother of the Year” recipients and gave us a look into their year's activities and plans for the luture. A lengthy discussion of "direct billing” of dues, or yearly assessment payments to secretaries lollowed. All secretaries reported they already collect dues annually, usually at their Christmas/Advent party, when more members are in attendance. Aurora secretary Dorothy Jamnik had written a letter concerning “billing” to the National Board, which was read. Members agreed that it was each individual’s responsibility to make this annual payment without numerous pleas from the branch secretary. A letter from the home office and accompanying graph showing the need for new young members was read and explained. Deaths and terminations are almost equal to new memberships, showing that SWU will not progress or continue to be a vital organization unless we all participate in recruiting new members. The upcoming National Convention in San Francisco in May, 1995, was discussed. The choosing of suitable delegates and their qualifications was stressed. It appears that 4 or 5 branches will be electing a delegate. The members were informed by National President Bobence of the exciting agenda awaiting them in San Francisco. WISCONSIN MEETS WILLARD Wisconsin State Convention was held on October 2, 1994 at Holy Family Church in Willard, Wisconsin. What a wonderful day it was! The Slovenian Women’s Union of Branch 102, officers and members, again did a fantastic job hosting the Convention. The day started for us at 5:00 a.m. when a bus of 46 people left Milwaukee for Willard. The weather was not too bad. A few rain drops on the way up, but then the weather turned out line. Thee was also a van from Sheboygan with 13 ladies. After arriving in Willard about 9:15 a.m. coffee and donuts were served before the meeting. The meeting was called to order at 10:15 a.m. by Joan Yaklich, Acting State President in the absence of Janet Maurin who is ill. Josephine Artac, President ol Branch 102 welcomed everyone. Wc were honored to have Msgr. Matthew Malnar at our meeting and he opened the meeting with a prayer. There were no National Officers present so we got to the business at hand. Dolores Kodrich of Branch 12 read the minutes of the last Convention held in 1992 in Milwaukee. Sophie Trunkel of Branch 102 took the minutes of this Convention. Delegates from Branch I, Branch 12, Branch 17, Branch 43, and Branch 102 read their questionnaires. Somethings that need to be improved on were: lack of membership, how to get new members, how to get members to attend meetings and how to get Juniors involved in activities. Also some want State Conventions every year and some do not. The things the Branches were most happy with were ZARJA, Pots & Pans Cookbook, recipes in ZARJA, Scholarship and Heritage articles. Then a discussion was held on Br. 17. It seems it has become stagnate. Marion Marolt, President of Branch 17 has been ill for sometime and there have not been many meetings; and when there were meetings they had to be held at her house and many ladies do not like to go to a private home. It was voted on at this Convention that Branch 17 would merge with Branch 12. Both Branches agreed to this. This will be taken back to the National Officers as to how to proceed with this merger. Then Msgr. Malnar said a few words. He said it was a good idea for the merger as it would help make lor a stronger Branch. It is happening in other organizations and also with churches and schools. It is a sign ol the times. It is also a good way to keep up our Ethnic Heritage. Branch 43 will host the State Convention in Milwaukee on September 17, 1995. I was also voted to be Acting State President for the Branch 43 Convention. This meeting adjourned at 11:15 a.m. Mass was at 11:30 a.m. at Holy Family Church. The choir was dressed in Slovenian costumes and sang Slovenian hymns during the Mass. Continued on page 25 The following article appeared in the Joliet Herald News, 6-13-94, when the new construction on Chicago Street was celebrated. Reprinted by permission of the paper and author. SLOVENIAN ROW: Rich in History, Spirit by Mark Feldmann JOLIET - Once upon a time, North Chicago Street was a city within a city. Immigrants from Slovenia, once part of Yugoslavia, (locked there to open businesses. They lived there, and died there. In the early days, horse-drawn trolleys clattered over the brick-paved road. Men worked 12 hours in the local steel mills and quenched their thirsts in neighborhood taverns. Kids played baseball in the road. On Sundays, everyone went to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, a massive limestone building that became the center of the neighborhood. Back then, everyone knew everyone. “You never had to lock your doors,” recalled Mardell Keenan, who grew up on North Chicago Street. Relatives of the first Slovenians still live and work along the street. The city recently renovated the road, adding decorative street lamps and new sidewalks. The improvements signal a new chapter for an area rich in history - a heritage honored by red, white and blue banners along the road proclaiming it Slovenian Row. North Chicago Street's history stretches back more than 120 years to 1870, when the city’s first Slovenian immigrant came to the city. That immigrant, Markuš Krakar, worked in a stone quarry. He bought the operation, and latter donated all the stone to build St. Joseph s Church. Back then. North Chicago Street was a dirt road. “If you saw a car once a month, that was something,” said resident John Slobodnik, 90. By 1885, there were about 40 Slovenians in Joliet, and a few hundred by 1890, according to research compiled by resident Edward Ancel. The immigrants worked in the city’s factories, steel mills and stone quarries. They toiled with pride and purpose. “My grandfather retired when lie was 81 years old,” said Anthony Golobitsch. “He worked for 67 years. That’s a strong work ethic.” “The steel mill was dirty work,” said Deanie Gudac, who grew up on North Chicago Street. “Twelve hours a day, seven days a week sometimes. If you didn’t like it, you opened your own business.” Many residents did. North Chicago Street was a veritable megamall of its time, restaurants, barber shops, grocery stores, meat markets and funeral homes - all operated by Slovenians. Many of the merchants were geniuses at their crafts. Joe Muren worked as a shoe repairman. He never put any names on his shoes - he knew all the customers and their shoes by sight, remembered Art Krause, whose grandfather, Anton Nemanich, owned a tavern and several other businesses on the street. “He’d take the shoes, toss them into a pile and say come back Tuesday,” Krause said. "On Tuesday, he’d give you your shoes.” Muren also helped doctors create special shoes for people with deformed or injured legs and feet. “What he did was an art,” Krause said. “When he died, the trade died with him.” The most popular spots on the street, however, were the taverns, which lured many thirsty steel workers. “The whiskey would be filled up and on the bar before they got there,” Krause said. “The Slovenian devotion to hard work probably was second only to their devotion to church and education. In 1890, a group of neighborhood merchants decided to build a church for Slovenians. St. Joseph was dedicated in 1891. A school was opened in 1895. A second church was built in 1901 because the first church was already too small. Sometimes, the love of church and liquor intertwined. When St. Joseph needed a new steeple, workers were convinced to contribute to the steeple fund in taverns before they could buy a drink, Krause said. By 1900, Joliet had one of the biggest Slovenian populations in the country. Only Cleveland, Ohio, had more. Immigrants who arrived in Joliet were quickly matched with Slovenian wives. “Slovenians have always stayed together,” Edward Ancel said. “Slovenians married Slovenians.” The new arrivals often were taken in as boarders in houses. Many homes had two shifts of roomers who worked the long, grueling hours at the steel mills. “The sheets never got cold,” said resident Jonita Ruth. “But in the summer, they never got clean.” Daniel Jovanovich’s father came to Joliet in 1910. He started the Serbian Food Store in 1912, and moved it to North Chicago Street in 1925. He had four sons and one daughter, Danica Jovanovich. Everybody worked in the store, even the girl. “You had to work whether you liked it or not,” Jovanovich said. Back then, everything was simpler. “We didn’t have television, we didn’t have radios,” said Thomas Nemanich, whose father owned a bank and soda machine business on North Chicago Street. “You sat down at the table and had discussions.” Kids didn’t suffer without television. They played baseball, delivered newspapers, fished and swam in the DesPlaines River. “We used to throw tomatoes at coal trains that passed through,” said resident Richard Tezak, who once ran a funeral home. “The train guys threw coal at us. They got fed and we stayed warm.” Slowly, the neighborhood got modernized. But sometimes having new technology wasn’t fun. Ann Jelenek’s house had the only telephone on the block. “Everyone came over and used it," she said. That was typical for the neighborhood, where everyone helped each other. You don't see that much anymore, said Stan Golobisch, whose parents owned a tavern near Ohio Street. “You were raised to be part of a unit,” he said. “And that unit really held together.” NEW LOOK FOR JOLIET'S CHICAGO STREET WE'RE CELEBRATING ITS RENOVATIONI Since the Slovenian Women’s Union Home Office came to North Chicago Street in Joliet almost 20 years ago, the city and community have undergone gradual changes but nothing like what has been happening since last fall! Now Chicago Street is beautified and re-struc-tured so that we have a wonderful new/old location! The grand opening celebration of the street took place on June 10th, 1994 in front of the SWU Home Office. Our members hosted the party and provided refreshments for the many guests with a nice place to sit, stand and dance, in front of the building. Some of the pictures depict the event. North Chicago Street as it looks today. Banners are on every street pole with descriptive titles. 8/ ZARJA - the l)AWN S.W.U. Home Office & Heritage Museum Hosts Grand Opening of Chicago Street Benefiting from the massive city renovation, our building now has a completely new sidewalk, under-structure and street light-pole that has been decorated by a banner, similar to others down the street. It was designed especially for this location by Fr. David Srumpf, O.F.M. assistant pastor of St. Joseph’s Church across the street. Last November, several representatives of the neighborhood asked the city council to dub the area as “Slovenian Row" in honor of the Slovenian population that settled there more than 100 years ago! Visitors to Chicago Street will see that at the Slovenian Women's Union we still honor them, not only in decorations, but in the spirit that permeates within the Home Office and Heritage Museum. Some of our Hr. 20 members planned and participated in the celebration, as seen on these photos. Jonita Ruth welcomed the Mayor of Joliet, Art Shultz, the Wolf Brothers entertained and the Home Office held open house for members and friends. Murals V DRACOYAN AmORATE GRATION Four murals painted on faux limestone walls at the St. Joseph School playground by Lucija Dragovan, who designed the murals, and Lillian Brule, who coordinated this special project, were completed in time for the school opening in late August. The murals depict the 1890’s Slovenian immigration to Joliet and are one of the highlights of the celebration of the 100th anniversary of St. Joseph School in 1995. Lucija and Lillian are graduates of the school and life-long members of St. Joseph Church. Lucija’s first experience with murals was a chalk Nativity scene which she created on the blackboard in the eighth grade at St. Joseph School. For this, she chose the immigrant theme because she had always wanted to create a work dedicated to the Slovenian immigrants, the virtues of their work, love of family and respect for the home. The murals are part of the City of Joliet’s Viaduct Enhancement Mural Project. Dedication of the murals was held October 9, 1994. MURAL I Lucija’s first mural depicts the departure of a father from his family in Slovenia to provide a better life for his family, economically and socially in the United States. The background of the mural highlights the well-known Triglav mountain, a roadside Chapel, which is found on rural roads throughout Slovenia, and a village in a mountain area. MURAL II The second mural depicts a mother’s arrival in Joliet with her children. The background in the mural shows the neighborhood homes where the immigrants settled. Churches and the steel mills of the 1900 era are part of the mural. icjE and ^ lAztvi Irene Planinšek Odorizzi HERITAGE DOLL COUPLE RAFFLE There isn’t a prize better than two beautiful 10” dolls dressed in .the Slovenian national dress made by the talented seamstress, Beverly Jackson, of Branch 13 in San Francisco. Last year Beverly donated a 24" doll with three lovely outfits, which was a great raffle gift. This year’s raffle will be Two dolls which are pictured on the back cover of ZARJA. Each member of the SWU is encouraged to buy at least one raffle ticket for$l .00 which will benefit the Heritage Fund/Museum. Tickets can be obtained through the Branch Officers that will be selling them at the meeting or by sending the coupon on the back cover of ZARJA directly to the National Office in Joliet. What a beautiful prize for you or someone special!! The Heritage Doll Rattle will be held at the 22nd National Convention San Francisco, California, May 19-21, 1995! SWU National President on Recovery List Get-well wishes and a speedy recovery are extended to SWU National President, Victoria “Tory” Bobence, who is recuperating after an operation on her hand. The President has been a strong supporter of Heritage and we wish her well and the strength and energy to continue leading our membership during the remainder of her tenure as President of the SWU. Minnesota Branches Observe Zveza Day Dorothy Jamnick, Secretary-Treasurer, Branch 35 recently sent a check for $110.35 to the Heritage-Muscum Fund from the Minnesota Branches. The profit from a successful ZVEZA DAY was shared with Heritage as it has been in past years. How reassuring it is to know that we can depend each year on the generous donation from the members of Minnesota for the continuation of Heritage work. Hvala lepa! This is how the murals began! The plain wall adjacent to St. Joseph’s School, facing Scott Street, was painted and prepared for Lucija Dragovan’s art work early in the summer, thanks to the city’s program for repair and renovation. After several months, the transformation was completed and now the four Murals enhance the whole neighborhood, and particularly benefit the school nearby. MURAL III The third mural is a tribute to the men who went to work in the steel mills. It shows men working in the mill and portrays the work ethics of the Slovenian men, who worked in the intense heat and long hours to provide for their families. MURAL IV The fourth mural is dedicated to the women immigrants. The scene is the kitchen of a home, with women baking poticas, ironing clothes and tending to the children. Parental dedication and unity of the family are the focal points of the murals. Slovenim *tnen>Unfc»ij The Slovenian Heritage Exhibit showing many items of interest included an old “harmonika”, beautiful “auba” and "ruta”, the new flag of the Republic of Slovenia, laces, woodenwear and pottery and a map showing Slovenia’s place in Europe. This exhibit was located near the Governor’s office where it could be viewed by many distinguished visitors. cJ~fzzitag£ JVe £(lrS... MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS PARTICIPATE IN ETHNIC DISPLAY Marie Scheidt and Jo Lustik (right) and Margaret Dusa (second from left) volunteers at the SWU Heritage Museum, pause for a moment to admire the Slovenian Heritage Exhibit at the State of Illinois Center that was held during the month of October in Chicago. Smiling agreement is Illinois Governor Jim Edgar’s Ethnic committee Director Pat Michalski (third from left) and intern, Martha Roman. Slovenian Greeting Notes and Postcards Mary Pavlic, Branch 30, senl 12 boxes of Slovenian Greeting Notes and Postcards which had been found in the attic of Mrs. Pauline Dutchman (Decman) Osolin of Forest City, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Osolin’s sister, Mary, was married to Joseph Zalar, a distinguished national officer of the KSK.I. The greeting cards and picture postcards were printed by the Slovenian Women’s Union alter WWII as a benelit to the Slovenian War-Orphaned children. Mrs. Osolin’s daughter, Audrey, and Mrs. Osolin’s grandson. Dr. John Petrich, Jr. had discovered the boxes of cards after her passing and contacted Mary who is also associated with the Slovenian Genealogical Society. Since Mary and I are in communication, 1 recognized her description of the greeting card and postcards which were printed by the SWU in the late 1940s and she agreed to send them to me so they could be sold to members interested in their Slovenian Heritage. These antique cards of a young Slovenian man and women will be re-packaged and in addition, a translation of the verse under the picture will be included for those who do not understand the Slovenian language. The postcards depict a beautiful and colorful Slovenian flower arrangement. We encourage Branch Officers to order these cards and sell them at a meeting. Of course, they are available to all ZARJA readers. The State of Illinois sponsored an Ethnic Museum and Permanent Cultural Day at the State of Illinois Building in Chicago on July 21, 1994. We are very proud to commend the following Heritage Museum volunteers lor traveling to Chicago on the Metro train with boxes and bags filled with Slovenian artifacts for the Slovenian display. Our dedicated ladies were: Olga Ancel, Josephine Lustik, Helen Plut, Mildred Puce!, and Marie Scheidt. Olga Ancel was attired in her Slovenian national dress for the event which was visited by Elizabeth Edgar, daughter of the governor. Olga mentioned that the event was very successful and our Slovenian troupe returned to Joliet, tired but having enjoyed the day. 1 hanks for representing our American-Slovenians once again, ladies. To purchase these LIMITED EDITION HERITAGE NOTES AND POSTCARDS Three note cards with envelopes ............ $5.00 Five postcards .............................. 3.00 Send to: Irene Odorizzi, Heritage Director 2362 Paddock Lane Reston, VA 22091 GENEALOGY GENEALOGIST VISITS SLOVENIA Joann Kochevar Hanson of Fountain Valley, California has been corresponding with me the past year about the success she experienced in tracing her family's roots. Joann's genealogical success led her to make the trip of a lifetime—visiting relatives in Slovenia. Not only did she visit the villages where her grandparents lived and met her relatives but she was able to visit the registry office for additional birth records. When the very excited Joann returned from Slovenia she called me and related her experiences. I asked that she share her adventures with ZARJA readers and other genealogists. She agreed to briefly relate her experiences which we hope you will enjoy. Perhaps, her success will lead you to delve into your own family history! Irene M. Odorizzi I am learning about my Slovenian heritage and I am loving it! It started last year with a trip to the National Archives in Laguna Niguel, California. 1 found that my grandparents, Joseph Kochevar (Jožef Hočevar) and Louise (Alojzija) Puh Kochevar were on the 1910 census in Aspen, Colorado. Grandpa died in 1967 and grandma in 1978. I knew them as 1 grew up, but seeing records of them when they were in their 20’s and my father as a 2 year old made me want to know more about their history. 1 decided to do what I could do to learn more about my ancestors. 1 found grandpa and grandma’s passenger lists on microfilm. I found grandpa’s passport and birth certificate, grandma’s “working book" and a birth certificate that she sent for in 1948. Two of my Dad’s cousins had traveled to “Yugoslavia” in the 1970’s and they really helped me a lot. Maxine Micklich had made family books and she shared them with me! She also told me about ZARJA, and the Slovenian Women’s Union. That really was a big help! 1 learned about The Atlas of Slovenia and it made it possible to see on a map just where Grandma came from. She came from Škocjan and Male Lipljene and her mother came from Turjak. Another cousin, Jenny Southern in Grass Valley, California, had gotten information from the priest at the church in Kal, my grandpa’s village, and she gave this information to me. This had really become exciting! I have learned that any information we write down may be valuable later. My grandma told me things as I talked with her years ago. Although I didn’t have very much written down, some of that information has really helped me now. Last fall I met someone who has done genealogy research in Slovenia for the last 25 years and she really encouraged me, so 1 sent off my first letter to Slovenia to try to learn new information. I hoped there might be something I would learn and two months later I got a letter with informa- tion about my great grandparents, Janez Puh and Marjeta Gale and their parents. 1 now knew about great-great-grand-parents! I got to share this exciting news with my mother and that was very special as it turned out to be the last real conversation I was able to have with her before she passed away. By this time I really had the feeling that I needed to go to Slovenia, do we started plans for a trip. Our daughter's motto became “Slovenia or Bust!" A newfound cousin, Veronica Fabec, from Wickliffe, Ohio, said, “You go. You will be so happy." She was very right! On August 4, my husband and 1 and our daughter. Heather, left Los Angeles for Slovenia. What a dream come true! We visited with relatives in both my grandpa’s and grandma's families and they were wonderful. 1 got to visit the village of Kal and see the house where my grandpa was born. I was able to find records of my grandpa’s family. We were taken to Škocjan and Male Lipljene where my grandma and her family had lived. We had lots of help from a wonderful new friend, Katja Gregorc. With her help 1 also was able to go to registry offices and find records of my family. At Velike Lašče we saw a beautiful record book of the village of Turjak. It had the birth records of the people in the castle at Turjak and the people who lived around it. In that book were the birth records of two generations of my great grandmother’s family. We also were taken to visit the castle at Turjak. At the castle 1 looked around and wondered about my ancestors who had lived at Turjak. I later found out that one cousin in my Dad’s family had been killed there in the fighting during WWII. There is so much family history to learn! Being in Slovenia was wonderful. Everything I learn makes me feel closer to my ancestors and to the land where they lived. I am really proud of being Slovenian and now I will begin to look forward to another trip to Slovenia! Joann Kochevar Hanson Branch 30 DONATIONS FOR THE SWU HERITAGE MUSEUM FUND AND THE SCHOLARSHIP FUND MAY HE SENT TO THE SWU HOME OFFICE, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, 1L 60439, tel. (SI5) 727-1926. 22nd National Convention SAN FRANCISCO California May 19,20,21,1995 REMEMBER, NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER ARE DELEGATE ELECTION MONTHS! In the three month period between October and December, 1994, branches are required to elect their National Convention 1995 delegates. Please note the following information: * Membership in good standing as of June 30, 1994 is the basis for number of delegates to be elected. * Every branch may elect one delegate and one alternate. * Branches with 201 to 400 members may elect two delegates and two alternates. * Branches with more than 401 members may elect three delegates and three alternates. * Branches with more than 401 members may elect three delegates and three alternates. * Election regulations require that all candidates be qualified for National Office, therefore, a member must be enrolled in Adult Class A or Adult Class B in good standing as of June 30, 1994. * Delegate and alternate elections shall be public and for each delegate and alternate, a separate ballot must be used. Majority of all votes cast shall determine the winner of each ballot. * The delegate(s) elect shall be presented her (their) Credentials signed by officers present at the election. * Delegates shall present their credentials to the Credential Committee at the National Convention as specified. * Expenses for each delegate shall be compensated by a contribution of $225 from the S.W.U., the remainder by the branch she represents. Further details concerning delegate and alternate elections may be found in the SWU By-laws, 3.09 to 3.11 and 4.10 to 4.14. Convention Headquarters: The Canterbury Hotel 750 Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94109 For California Convention and Tour Information: Barbara J. Chiodo, Chairman 1995 National Convention Slovenian Women’s Union of America 2324 Buena Vista Avenue Belmont, CA 94002 TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS TO SAN FRANCISCO! The Regional Presidents are our Travel Co-ordinators for the National Convention in San Francisco. Airfares will be most economical if group fares are used, according to major city fares to the west coast. Please get in touch with your Regional President at the soonest possible time! VISITORS TO THE CONVENTION! We hope you and your families and friends will come to San Francisco for the Convention! Everyone is welcome to join in the sight-seeing excursions and other public events. Remember group discounts are most economical! Take your vacations with us in San Francisco and points from there, such as Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Disneyland, Canada and even, Hawaii! For Travel and other information, please contact the S.W.U. Home Office 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone: (815) 717-1926 CALIFORNIA HERE I COME!!!! BRANCH 13 INVITES ALL DELEGATES, ALTERNATES, FAMILIES AND FRIENDS As you arc aware, the Host Committee of Branch 13 has booked the 22nd National Convention at the Beautiful Canterbury Hotel in the heart of San Francisco. The hotel is a short walk to the Cable Cars, Union Square, with outstanding shopping, Chinatown and the Theater District. The cost of the rooms is $74.00, single and $79.00, double. There are also dozens of restaurants within walking distance of the hotel, which is home to world famous Lehrs Greenhouse Restaurant. Everything from world class restaurants to MacDonalds! Truly something for everyone. We are in the process of planning a Formal Banquet on the evening of Friday, May 19th in the Garden Room of the Canterbury Hotel. We are planning on special guests and entertainment. It will be a time to meet old friends and to make new friends. There will also be an installation Banquet on Sunday, May 21st at the Slovenian Hall, in the heart of the Slovenian Community in San Francisco. The Convention Committee has also been busy planning great tours we know will delight you. We’ve got something for everybody! We are sending this information early so that you can begin to make your plans, and we wanted to get you as excited as we are about the tours we have selected. The Convention Sessions have been scheduled for the morning, so that all delegates and alternates will be able to join in on the fun. The Schedule of Tours For those of you who are planning to make this trip a vacation, we have planned a full day tour for the day before and after the convention. The tours will take you to two of the most beautiful parts of California. Friday, May 19th - We will board a Motorized Cable Car for a short ride to San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf where we will have lunch at the beautiful Franciscan Restaurant. The restaurant is surrounded by windows, so that you can view San Francisco Bay, Angel Island and Alcatraz. After lunch we board our waiting Motorized Cable Car for a three hour narrated City Tour. The tour will include the North Beach Area, Chinatown, Victorian Houses (known as painted ladies). Golden Gate Park and the world famous Cliff House and Seal Rock, overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Our tour will continue across the Golden Gate Bridge to Vista Point, where you will be able to see the entire skyline of San Francisco. The cost of this tour, including lunch is $37.00. Saturday, May 20th - We will board our bus and depart for the Santa Cruz-Felton area. We will tour the beautiful San Francisco Peninsula, past the Silicon Valley and through the Santa Cruz Mountains. During the trip you will enjoy The Garden Room at Lehr’s Greenhouse Restaurant a lovely box lunch and homemade desserts. We will arrive at Roaring Camp and get ready to board the Narrow Gauge Railway for a 1-1/4 hour ride through the magnificent Redwood Trees. We will return to the train depot for dinner. Dinner will be an Old Fashioned Chuckwagon Barbecue under the trees. You will get a taste of the Old West on this tour!!! The cost of this tour, which includes lunch and dinner is $47.00. Thursday, May 18th - We depart the hotel at 9:00 a.m. and travel south to the beautiful Monterey/Carmel Area. Our first stop will be at Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf. This is home to the sea Otter and numerous sea birds. We will have lunch at the Fisherman’s Grotto Restaurant overlooking Monterey Bay. After lunch we will continue south to Carmel, taking the world famous 17 Mile Drive viewing Pebble Beach Golf Course and many of the most beautiful homes in California. Next we will visit the lovely Carmel Mission, founded by Father Junipero Serra. Of all the missions Father Serra founded, this remained his favorite and this is where he chose to be buried in the altar. We will depart from the Mission and return back at the hotel at 7:00 p.m. The cost of this tour, including lunch is $40.00. Monday, May 22nd - We board our bus at the hotel at 9:45 a.m. and travel north over the San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge, through the tunnel on Yerba Buena Island, with a beautiful view of San Francisco and Treasure Island to the Napa Valley. Napa Valley is known as Wine Country, as you will see as we pass some of the most beautiful wineries in the world. We arrive at the Sterling Vineyards and get ready to board the Tram and travel up to the Mediter-ranean-style building overlooking the entire Napa Valley. We will have a guided tour of the remarkable winery, after which we will have a Gourmet Style Box Lunch with Wine. After lunch we will board our bus and return to the hotel at 5:00 p.m. The cost of this tour, including lunch is $42.00. We hope we have gotten you excited about our beautiful City, the City of St. Francis and our beautiful Golden State. We know you will leave your heart in San Francisco!!! To see our City is to fall in love with it. Wedding Bells ^ Bernadette and Timothy Fit/simmons ^ On August 27, 1994, wedding vows were exchanged between Bernadette J. Kovačič and Timothy J. Fitzsimmons. The sacrament ol' marriage was celebrated in the beautiful Notre Dame Chapel of Trinity College in Washington, I).C. The ceremony was performed in both English and Slovenian. Celebrants were the Reverend Brian Vaughan (in English), and the Reverend Raymond Wadas (in Slovenian) for the 3:30 p.m. ceremony. Rosemary Hudccheck, soloist, sang several selections prior to the ceremony. Her lovely voice was entrancing and so appropriate for the event. Vladimir Pregelj, Slovenian soloist, sang some hymns during Mass. Harpist Mary Kay, Trumpeter Bob Seiger, and Organist/Pianist Bill Stief, were excellent, and the strains for the entrance of the bridal party drew everyone’s attention as bridesmaids and ushers entered down the aisle. Rita and John Fitzsimmons, parents of the groom, were followed by mother of the bride, Nika Kovacic, carrying the lighted candle in memory of the late Eric Kovacic, father of the bride. Matron of honor and bridesmaids were lovely in their pink flowered gowns, and the ushers handsome in their dark suits. The bridesmaids were Katherine Antolin Bakeev, Lisa Marie Carr, Tracey Ann Mecanko, and Erica Kokol Roda. Ushers were Sheldon Dean, John Fitzsimmons, Fred Geurts, and Kenneth Walter. Matron of honor Mary Murphy Kolberg and best man Daniel Fitzsimmons were followed by flower girl Kristina Bevec and ring bearer Julian Chung. Finally, the bride and groom came slowly up the aisle with (heir radiant smiles. Timothy was very handsome in his dark suit, and Bernadette was beautiful in her gorgeous white satin gown with beads embroidered throughout and the long train that her matron of honor tended so capably. Her veil was short, covering her face. The wedding ceremony itself was beautiful with readings and prayers in both the English and Slovenian versions. The receiving line was formed outdoors in front of (he church following the ceremony offering ample room for the many guests to extend their congratulations. The weather was absolutely perfect and made-to-order. Everyone then made their way to The Inn and Conference Center, University of Maryland, University College Main Ballroom, in College Park, Maryland. While waiting for the wedding party to arrive, the guests were busy tasting the excellent linger foods with ample service from the two open bars. The dining room was lovely with large round tables, and the long bridal table. The orchestra was outstanding and came all the way from Cleveland for this special occasion. Each guest was assigned space at certain tables, decked with flowers and candles, with a glass of champagne for the salute to the bridal couple. Nika Kovacic, mother of the bride, passed souvenir bookmarks to each guest. A beautiful message from the bridal couple was engraved in gold script (we could choose either the English or Slovenian version). Attached to this was a lovely handmade fell heart, on a white cord. The heart was padded, and decorated with sequins, all handmade—a lovely token for a lovely day. The wedding cake was beautiful and delicious. It was made by the bride’s uncle who came from Slovenia—a rare treat. After the delicious dinner, dancing continued till late into the night. Once again, our most sincere wishes to Bernadette and Timothy for their happiness and good fortune. Matilda Ausich ZELE FUNERAL HOMES, INC. TWO COMPLETE FUNERAL HOMES Cleveland, Ohio 452 East 152nd St. 6502 St. Clair Ave. 481-3118 361-0583 "\ AVSEC PRINTING Union Shop “Over 60 Years of Service” 825 Plainfield Road Joliet, Illinois 60435 (815) 722-2961 V y flCTIUITIES NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Theme for our September meeting was “Grandparents’ Day”. We honored all the grandparents, they were given a red carnation and those that were not received a pink carnation. Everyone received a flower and they were given by Dolores Puhek. Report was given on the Zveza Dan Picnic/Lemont - we did very well.. Thanks to everyone for your help. They are so many plans for the next few months, we are really trying to get a group lor the National Convention in San Francisco - sounds like we will really have a good time put this on your list for places to go for next year. CHEER BASKET: NEEDS ARE GREAT - We must try to restock the shelves. Jean Hrastar says that the pantry is empty; when you go shopping please put a few items into your cart for our neighbors who are in need. A belated Happy Birthday to John Jasbec who reached his 101 year. We wish that the LORD will grant you many more healthy and happy years, John! We welcome Sister Germaine to St. Stephen’s as Principal, and we wish our dear sister Cindy much success in her new job at Alvernia Manor in Lem-ont. She is missed by everyone. Our condolences to the Franciscan Fathers 011 the loss of Fr. Pelagij M. Majhenič. He was called to his Heavenly Home on August 13. He was at St. Stephen's for a few years. Please keep him in your prayers. Also, our sympathies to Jean Zubek 011 the loss of her brother. We also extend our condolences to the family and Iriends of Fr. Steven Budrovich, Pastor of Holy Trinity Croatian Church who passed away on September 25 after a brief illness. He will be missed by many because he was so active in all of the Croatian circles and we will miss his super picnic, and church dinners. Please remember him in your prayers. Remember our sick, home bound, and those in Nursing Homes in your prayers, with cards and telephone calls: Patty Zubek Zeleznak, Mary Slabe, Rose Kleiderman, Tarz Kovacic, Fr. Len Bogolin, Ann Mladic and Fifi Fajfar, Stella Longosz and Barbara Lataranico. Our ZARJA for September was super, everyone I talked to seemed to agree that it was one of our best. Congratulations to the new branch in Virginia. We will all be waiting for the next issue to read what things are happening your way. You all should be proud of what you have accomplished. We were all excited about the IL/IN State Convention in october. Dolores Puhek was our representative. Penny Social: November 10: Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Invite your friends - we always have a great time. The theme is a surprise! December 3 - Children’s Christmas Party. 12:00 noon - Santa will arrive from the North Pole for his annual visit. December 7 - Mass for ailing members - 8 a.m. December 8 - Immaculate Conception holyday. December 15 - Adults’ Christmas Party - Anniversary Mass 6:30 p.m. - Party will follow. Please call Jean Hrastar for tickets. If you have any questions regarding any of the above parties please contact one of the officers. For those members who have not attended any of the parties, they are always held in the church hall of St. Stephen's. DATES TO REMEMBER Nov. 6 - Altar Society Luncheon -Video of the 75th Anniversary will be shown after 10:30 Mass. Nov. 13-Parish Benefit Dinner $15 - Gym Hall (Slovenian Dinner). Nov. 20 - Boy Scout Pan-cake breakfast. Nov. 6 - Afternoon - Special Bingo - Our Lady's Guild Please return the Request Form of how you would like to have the dues paid. Also, try to get a new member, bring a friend to one of our meetings maybe they will like us and join. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. It is a great family time. Love, DAISY NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO Our first meeting after the summer recess was held at St. Mary’s Church Hall September 7 at 1:00 p.m. Refreshments were served by hostesses Helen Galich and Steffie Barnett. Mary Tekavec presided at the meeting and after reports were given and approved she reported that Norma Becco is a new member and that Frances Hiza and Agnes Cvar were on the sick list. Also, there was one deceased member, Frances Mramor. Bingo was played after the meeting. Mary Yanks, a faithful member who very seldom misses a meeting, is on the sick list but is now convalescing at home. Condolences are extended to the families of Marc Perse, Frances Mramor and Joe Russ. Some of our members had a busy summer with visitors and family reunions. In July, the Pritekel, Centa and Yak-lich families had a family reunion in Rye. Val and Charles Marvel came from Kansas City and their son Pat also came. Linda Watson and her children came from Washington state. Jennie Mishmash’s daughter, Myrna and her daughter came from the state of Washington and Myrna's son came from Denver to visit Jennie. Maria Dacar came from Graz, Austria to visit the Tekavec family for four weeks. Rose Zupančič and her son were in Washington, D.C. in June. Catherine Sincovec spent some time in Aspen. Gertrude Jordan’s daughter, husband and daughter, Dorothy and Bert Spencer and Shelly, came fromCalifor-nia for a visit. Gertrude Jordan, Catherine Sincovec, Frances Nelson and Zora Hasse attended the S.N.P.J. Convention in Albuquerque. My daughter, Norma Becco, her husband Albert and I motored to Joliet, Illinois to attend the K.S.K.J. Convention in August. It was an enriching experience and we met so many nice people. From there we motored to Branson which we enjoyed. Get well wishes are extended to all who are ill and may all who are grieving find peace. Lastly, let's remember those who are homebound or in nursing homes in our prayers. PAULINE PAUCHICK NO. 5, INDIANAPOLIS, IN We are giving you a month!! A month to choose what covered dish to bring to our annual Christmas luncheon and meeting. Remember it is a pitch-in with Branch 5 providing the meat. When: December 1, 1994 What: Christmas Luncheon Time: 11:00 a.m. Where: Slovenian National Home RAFFLE! RAFFLE! RAFFLE! The raffle will be held at this luncheon meeting so plan to attend so you can receive your prize. Do not forget to turn in your sold tickets to Mary Frances Mohr. She even enclosed return envelopes so as to make MY as well as yours, too) life easier. The raffle will be held at the Christmas luncheon on December I, 1994. Please plan to attend. We would love to see you all before the Christmas rush begins. You can bring your yearly dues to the meeting on December 1, Mary Frances Mohr will be there to collect. We accept cash and checks, but alas, no credit. So plan ahead for the meeting and remember you need to bring TWO items with you: a covered dish and your dues! Thank you for your help. 1 hope that you all have a bountiful Thanksgiving. Life itself is a Thanksgiving and I am thankful as well as prayerful for all the members of Branch 5. I, along with the rest of the branch, offer the best of wishes and prayers for those who are sick or shut-in. In closing, I hope you to see you at the meeting on Dec. 1, 1994 and don't forget to make one of your favorite recipes. Love from Texas, BARBARA MOHR Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving... (Psalms 95:2) MOURN MEMBERS Members of Br. 10, Cleveland (Collinwood), Ohio are saddened by the loss of two members this spring-summer. Zora Marie Johanna Merhulik passed away on May 11th and Millie Novak died on Aug. 15th. I Zora Merhulik Mrs. Merhulik was born Nov. 26, 1923 in Bay Village, Ohio. She was married to Edward Merhulik on June 26, 1948. They both enjoyed membership with the Glasbena Matica Chorus for many years. Zora was a secretary at the Cleveland School Board for five years and enjoyed part time tutoring of grade-school children. She was a member of St. Paul’s Croatian Church on E. 40th Street from where she was buried and is interred at All Souls Cem-tery. Concelebrating her funeral mass were Fr. Mirko Hladni of St. Paul’s and Fr. John Kumse of St. Mary’s in Collinwood. Besides her husband. Zora is survived by daughters Angela Petro and Katherine Merhulik, sisters Agnes Perc, Paula Dillon, Donna Scott, Angela Macek and Helen Tih and a brother, Nicholas Grachanin, Jr. * * * Amelia (Millie) Novak died on the Marian holyday of the Assumption. She was in residence at the Slovenian Home on Neff Rd., and was one of our eldest members, in her nineties. She always will be remembered lor her generous spirit and friendliness; she always brought bags of homemade noodles to us for fund-raising. So, our “noodle-lady” is now gone. Millie was laid to rest on Aug. 19th after a funeral mass at St. Mary's officiated by Fr. John Kumse. She rests at All Souls Cemetery. We pray for their eternal rest and peace! A. Stefanic NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH Prayers were said for our sick and deceased members on Wed. Sept. 29th at our meeting at the Collinwood SND. After minutes and the treasurer’s report, we heard the correspondence. 16 members were present and Mary Pierce was introduced as a new member. Welcome, Mary! Discussed were plans for the Ohio-Michigan State Convention Oct. 16th in Detroit, MI. We heard it would be a full day with a polka mass, dinner and the meeting. Our Christmas party was also discussed. It will be held on Wed. Nov. 16th at I p.m. at the Collinwood Slov. Home. Reservations must be made in advance. Guests and members are welcome. Please try to attend — meet your sister members. Call 531-7635 for reservations. After the meeting a raffle was held and refreshments served. Thanks to all ladies who baked and helped serve. Our deepest sympathy to the family of Anna Hozyan who passed away. To Helen Suhy who is ill, we extend get well wishes. We miss you, Helen. With summer now over, we are enjoying a lovely fall. The gardens have all been cleared of the summer vegetables, flowers are still blooming and soon it will be time to think of the holidays. Have a safe, healthy Thanksgiving Day and enjoy your families! ANN STEFANČIČ NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Our September meeting was well-attended and everyone was anxious to be back. We made arrangements for our luncheon and style show. To my surprise, all tickets were sold at the meeting. What cooperation! We could have sold more but space is limited and we want people to be comfortable. More on this after our luncheon takes place. A few of us attended the Style Show and luncheon put on by Br. 43. The president, Josephine Janezic and her models deserve a lot ol praise. She tried something different! They are hosting the Wisconsin State Convention next year. Maybe new ideas will bring more enthusiasm and new members. We get in a rut doing the same things over and over and things get dull. Congratula- tions, Br. 43! Well clone! We celebrated Mary Dezman and Stavia Dobersek’s birthdays in September and a few members had birthdays, too. We sang Happy Birthday to all celebrating July, August and September birthdays. Our bus to Willard had no problem filling up for the State Convention on Oct. 2nd. 21 members from our lodge attended. More on this in the next article. We were served a delicious lunch by Phyllis again. Nice to see Ann Paulin back after her surgery. Ann Grambow and Julia Pesec traveled to North Carolina for the wedding of their nephew in October. Another nephew got married in Sept. Rose Luebkc made a trip to visit her daughter in Washington. We discussed our Christmas party. Our vice-president, Jo Wilhelm had eye surgery and Mary Dezman is having eye problems. Get well, we need you all! A Happy Thanksgiving to you. See you at the meetings. Stay healthy and wealthy and wise! MARY KIEL NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA We got back to our meetings in September and made plans for our Annual Pot Luck Dinner in October. We were very happy to swear in new member, Ceta Zagar. Her late husband, Joe, was President of K.S.K.J. for many years and Ceta is Secretary. She has a lovely daughter, Alex, who recently celebrated her 21st birthday and is very special to me. I know this active and energetic gal will be an asset to our Branch. Welcome, Ceta. Rose Scoff had a serious fall in her home and was hospitalized but she is home now. This remarkable lady is up, out, and around already and just celebrated her 95th birthday. She is very lucky to have her devoted sister, Kate, to keep her company. Also on the sick list is Y vonne Cosmi who was in the hospital and is at home now. We send good wishes to Martin Turcina, husband of Eve. He has had a rough time but is doing well. President Josephine Aiuto had one of her marvelous trips and several of our members took advantage of a wonderful week. Louise Petrusich, Eleanor and Emil Hnilo, Virginia and Rudy Sustarich, Agnes Leach. Doreen Sus-tarich, Michele and Denny Twers and Jo went to Morro Bay, Santa Barbara, Lawrence Welk’s Resort, and San Diego where they stayed at the Holiday Inn right on the water and had dinner at the famous Anthony's. Everyone was very happy to see Joe and Ann Nanut at the Slovenian Hall recently. Joe has certainly had more than his share of health problems but looks marvelous and keeps a wonderful attitude. Secretary, Moreen Spencer and husband Don are more than proud parents lately. Sons Kevin and Kenneth are taking Hying lessons and doing wonderfully from what I hear. They plan on going to college in Arizona where they can pursue this career. Way to go, guys! We send thoughts and good wishes to our members who cannot join us at meetings. Sister Marianne gave me this note recently: One day at a time, this is enough Do not look back and grieve over the past, it is gone; And don’t be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present Make it so beautiful It will be worth remembering.... I have just come in possession of a most fantastic cassette tape. It is called SMOOTH AS SILK - THE JOHN KRISCHE BAND featuring Joe Bajuk. This is polka music at its best!! John is local S.F. Bay Area and has played for most of the events at the Slovenian Hall and for our Church Dinners. John is a wonderful young man, as is Joe Bajuk. And a marvelous addition is 2 vocals 'Tfy-our own Br. 13 Diana Fir. She has an absolutely beautiful voice (Graduate of the Conservatory of Music) and the songs are a joy. If you are interested in having this tape you may contact: Diana Fir 448 Cypress Ave., San Bruno, Calif. 94066.1 promise you will not be disappointed. BEVERLY JACKSON NO. 14, EUCLID, OH We've had an early showing of bright vivid colors in our foliage this year due to a dry hot summer which now seems so long ago as we enjoy our cooler Fall September days. Even though we don't have meetings during the months of July and August, we did have our annual get-together picnic at the home of Pres. Martha and Ed Koren. It's always a pleasant gathering to relax and enjoy the company of our friends and, of course, to enjoy tasting the home made side dishes brought by the ladies. Once again the men did the honors of barbecuing the chicken to perfection. It's difficult to believe but ourChrist-mas Party is just around the corner. The day is Tuesday, December6 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Slovenian Society Home on Recher Avenue. Be sure to call in your reservations to Vice-Pres. Vera Bajec at 481-7473 or Marty Koren 585—4227. Our Christmas Dinner is always an evening when members and their guests join in for our delicious home-style dinner and extending holiday greetings to our friends. Speedy recovery wishes to Vera Bajec, Vickie Lindic and Annie Novince who are all now recuperating at home after a stay in the hospital. Sympathy to the family of member Anne Novinc who was a resident of the Slovene Home for Aged and who passed away in September. May our dear Lord and His blessed Mother keep our departed loved ones in Their care. Don't forget to get your dues caught up for this past year and perhaps get an early start on paying next year's dues. You may do so at our next meeting (don't forget, meeting starting time is 6:00 p.m.) or send dues to Diane Varney, 1155 Easton Dr., Akron, Ohio 44310. Happy Thanksgiving to all with wishes for lots of roasted turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie! ALICE KUHAR NO. 16, MILWAUKEE, WI On August 13th, Vida Kumse’s sister Ann Vrhovnik arrived from Slovenia for her yearly vacation in the U.S. A week later, Vida, Ann and Gladys Buck went to Branson, MO for an enjoyable 5 days. Ann also was a guest at our Sept. meeting. Pizza was on the lunch menu and Manda Maggio made a delicious salad. Cake was made by Helen Milanovich. Clara Saviano baked strudel for Palmera Rapiach's birthday. Vida also brought strudel and green leaves candy. New grandmas: Mary Ann Skibbie, baby Monica Marie; Elaine Struble, baby Samantha Elaine. Sick members: Alvina Sreboth, Palmera Rapiach, Ann Lustig, Bernice Jarkovich, Helen Milanovich and Mary Krznarich. Jo Hester left for California for the wedding of her grandson. After a visit to Las Vegas, Corinne and Allen Winters flew to Chicago to visit Joe and Edna Winters - it was an August vacation. The KSKJ had a bocce ball tournament held at Boggie’s and those of our S.W.U. participating were Mary Terese Ehnat, Gladys Buck, Dotsie Rossi, Helen Battista and Mary Jane Strus. E.W. NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, WI Golly1 It won’t be long before we will be planning our Christmas activities, but until then, let’s enjoy what’s left of our beautiful fall season. Birthday greetings are extended to Beth Arthur of Slidell, Louisiana and to all who are celebrating, be it birthdays, anniversaries or some other special event. Get well wishes and better health to all our sick and shut-in members and to our president, Marion Marolt. May she continue to improve now that she is at home under the care and watchful eye of her daughter, Robin. The state convention on Oct. 2nd at Willard, Wis. was a great success. As usual, the food was fantastic and also the entertainment. Will comment more on this in the next issue. Now a reminder - ladies - please try to attend our meeting on Sun., Nov. 20th at 2 p.m. at president Marion Marolt’s home, 1512 So. 53rd Street. This is a very important meeting as a discussion must be made regarding the future of our branch and many issues to be resolved. Hopefully we will have a Christmas social on Sunday, Dec. 18th after our business meeting. Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and an enjoyable holiday season. P.S. - If you are in arrears please pay your dues and get your books up to date. FRANCES PIWONI NO. 20, JOLIET, IL 1 hope everyone had a healthy, safe and fun summer. There is not a whole lot to write about for this article. Some of our members, along with Corinne went to Slovenia this past September. From what I hear they all had a nice time. I’ll have to find out who went and let you know. Wedding bells rang for Anna Marie Yattoni and Todd Gibson on July 3rd. Anna Marie is the daughter of Frank and Barbara Yattoni. Branch 20 held it's annual “Grape Harvest Dance” on Sunday, September 25th. Will County Board member Joseph Babich, better known as “Banana Joe" was our Honorary Mayor this year. Joe and his wife Mary did a very nice job presiding over the festivities. There were nearly 400 people in attendance. The Bruce Korosa band played from 4 until 8 that evening and kept every foot a tappin’. Agnes Dobsczyk and crew kept all glasses filled while Lillian Cepon and her crew did a fine job in the kitchen with pepper steaks, smokies, sauerkraut and Slovenian potatoes. YUM! Our Publicity posters were clolored by Jane Rougeau. II' anyone is interested in going to the National Convention in San Francisco on May 18-22, information can be obtained by calling the Home Office at 727-1926. My husband and I stopped in to sec our member and my sister-in-law Mary Vicich and her husband Elmer. Mary was recovering from surgery this summer. She and Elmer are doing just great. Our next meeting will be November 15th at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Park. That night wc will vote on delegates going to the National Convention. Also guest speaker will be Linda Green for "PartyIite” - these are candles, home and Christmas accessories and giftware. Remember, if there is anything you want me to write about let me know. My number is 744-7584. Closing for now, take care and may God bless. JOYCE VICICH NO. 22, BRADLEY, IL God blessed us with a beautiful September Sunday for our Slovenian picnic! No doubt the chairfolks, Helen and Joe Sebastiani and Elizabeth Kinder, did some praying; for sure, they did the footwork to make the event a most pleasant affair. Thank you, and also to Leo Rittmanic and daughter Barbara for use of the Acres. Nothing like a Sunday afternoon doing what we do best: eating, visiting and playing games. We missed the folks who came in years past and we hope to see them next year. Barbara Rittmanic is never idle! Though involved in many church activities, she found time to be the gracious hostess with her mother Mary at Br. 22’s August meeting and equally gracious was Marge Planton for opening her home to her sister for the occasion. Many thanks to all for the good time. Will let you know who attended the Oglesby meet. Congratulations to Genevieve and Bob Heriford of Lansing, MI, on their 50th wedding anniversary and on Bob’s induction into Golf’s Hall of Fame. Gen is a Spreitzer from Ely, MN, a sister to Mary Rittmanic and Marge Planton. She worked in Bradley in the early 40s. On the go in September was Mathilde Beham of Sun City, AZ. “One more time to Slovenia!” Her sister Mayme Drassler was clocking her arrival at O’Hare for stop-over as we were playing cards at a parish function. How we wish we could join all the happy travelers! One cannot embark upon November without remembering our departed loved ones in prayer, tor they always remain a part of us. God rest their souls. And November is lor Thanksgiving, one of the National days that Fr. Edd at St. Joe’s called a“holyday of obligation”, giving thanks by Mass attendance before the (easting. Enjoy! Enjoy! Our best wishes to Marge Planton as she undergoes a battery of tests to pinpoint the medical problem that suddenly sent her to the hospital. Good luck, Marge! EMMA LUSTIG Keep your members informed! We love to read news of your branch in ZARJA! My best friend, Jenny (rij»ht) and I standing in front of the Vatican This is Assisi, where we attended Easter Sunday Mass YOUNG MEMBER REMEMBERS A WONDERFUL TRIP! I recently had an opportunity to travel in Europe with my (Joliet West) high school’s Spanish Club. Not only was I able to brush up on my Spanish, but 1 was able to celebrate Easter in a totally different culture. It was an experience that I will never forget. My experience began in Rome on Good Friday as we were driving back to the hotel after a busy day of sight-seeing. Our bus slowed and seemed to be caught in a traffic jam, but we quickly realized that it was a parade of people that was blocking our passage. This was not a normal parade with tickertape and floats, instead, it was a reenactment of The Passion! The line was led by the Roman soldiers, followed by a group of mourning women. Further down the line was Jesus wearing a crown of thorns and carrying the wooden cross on His back; Mary was comforted by two women as she wept into her handkerchief. All fourteen stations of the cross were acted out as the group of people made their way to a hill with two crosses and burning torches. Later, our tour guide told us that this is a big tradition in Rome and all of the citizens get involved. During our busy European schedule we toured more than twelve famous churches including San Sebastiano in Rome, Holy Cross in Florence, La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and Santa lglesia in Madrid. All of the churches were very big and elaborate. Most of them had stories of the Bible depicted in paintings on the walls or mosaic on the ceiling. All of the paintings were very beautiful but the most breath-taking was the Sistine Chapel in Rome. The Chapel is in the Vatican Museum located outside the Vatican walls. We had to walk through three long hallways that were decorated with tapestries, statues and paintings just to get there. Because the hallways were so beautiful, I was overwhelmed when I walked into the Chapel. My eyes were immediately drawn upward to the nine panels on the ceiling. From the “Separation of Light from Darkness” to the “Intoxication of Noah”, each painting was very bright and detailed. That same day we toured St. Peter's Basilica. The tiny Vatican City was very crowded because they were setting up for Easter mass the next day. Yet, with a little patience and a lot of persistence, we made it to the Basilica where I was awed once more. I viewed Michelangelo’s “Pieta” and walked by many statues of famous saints before 1 finally admired Bernini’s Canopy that covers the papal altar. Finally, Easter Sunday arrived and we awoke at 6 a.m. for our usual breakfast of rolls and coffee. After breakfast we took a four hour bus ride to Assisi where we attended mass at the Basilica of San Francisco. Even though the mass was in Italian, I was actually able to understand it. The music was very pretty and the entire church echoed with the parishioners’ singing. Unfortunately, it was raining that day so we weren’t able to see the city, although we were able to visit the chapel under the Basilica where 1 saw St. Francis’ tomb. Now that my trip is over every time I look at my photo album it brings back a flood of memories. My favorite memory is that I didn’t see any decorations of the Easter Bunny nor did I see any stores selling jelly beans. Instead. I celebrated Easter in a very religious setting that opened my eyes to the true meaning of this holiday. But I have to admit, I did miss my grandma’s potica! Emily Ukovich Branch 20, Joliet Emily, age 19 is the daughter of Bob and Sue Ukovich and granddaughter of John and Bernadine Ukovich. She has been a member of Branch 20, Joliet, IL, since birth. Also her great grandmother the late Frances Ukovich was a member of Branch 20. Emily is a graduate of Joliet West High School (1994) and will be attending St. Francis College in Joliet; she will be going into the teaching field. Emily is a very bright young girl, she was a member of the National Honor Society and is currently umpiring softball games to help with her college expenses. Emily went to Europe this past spring with her Spanish class and she wrote the enclosed article that was sent to ZARJA by Joyce Vicicli, her aunt and our Br. 20 Reporter. We agree with Joyce that the article is a very good one and perhaps Emily will write again sometime! Good luck to her in her college studies. CL n n o'n, tRose Novak NO. 23, ELY, MN Thanks to the Hibbing SWU members for hosting the State Convention. What a beautiful day and what a nice time! The meeting was very informative, the Mass was so inspirational as a group and the Banquet was outstanding — the food, delicious, the entertainment, ethnic and fun, and the speaker made everyone lighten up, reminiscing on some things that happened in the past and also made one think of our heritage (coming from different areas of the former Yugoslavia) and all with a wonderful sense of humor. Twenty-four members from Ely were present. We went in different cars. In our car, we were really lucky as Chris Cadari won a door prize, which was a cassette by the Range Button Box Band, so we had music all the way home. (Of course, we had to see if it worked okay!) What a pleasurable day! Thanks again, Hibbing! At the Dawn Club meeting on Monday, Sept. 12, we talked about getting new members, as was discussed at the Sunday meeting. We all agreed, this should be our goal for this year. Angie Mobilia won the door prize and a lovely lunch was served by: Margaret Shuster, Rose Pucel (who filled in for Helen Kotchevar) Julia Russ, Ann Saari and Olga Feroni. After everyone enjoyed tasting all the assortment of desserts or salads, we all had a wonderful time — ahem! — socializing, that is! JANE YADLOSKY, Reporter Ely, MN and SWU No. 23 has been saddened by the sudden death of Rose Novak. Just 5 months ago the Tower branch of SWU was saddened by the death of Molly Wilson, who was a sister of Rose. Both were strong and faithful members of the Slovenian Women’s Union. In fact, it was their encouragement and example that got me to become a member. Rose Novak, born in Ely, MN on September 26, 1914, was one in a family of 7 children of Matt and Theresa Rose Železnikar. Even as a child. Rose always had the quality of caring. She was the oldest daughter and she automatically assumed responsibilities of the home when mom and dad were busy with farming, caring for animals and taking in boarders. Rose was always the one that “got things done” and was never afraid of hard work. She was married to Joseph F. Novak on October 12, 1940 and had three sons: Ronald, Thief River Falls, MN, Dennis, Riverside, CA and Joseph, Virginia, MN, seven grandchildren and one grandson. She had been a loyal Red Cross volunteer for 29 years, going to the nursing home every Tuesday helping to organize card games, then staying to help feed those who cannot help themselves. You would always see her smiling face at most other activities. She’ll also be remembered as “The Whistler”, and believe me, she could whistle!!! After her husband passed away, Rose’s sons insisted she learned to drive the car, and she did. What a blessing this was, not only for herself but for many, many others as she would take people shopping, visiting, out lor rides, or just pick people up for meetings. She would make meals for shut-ins, and loved to take them for a Sunday drives or just out for an ice cream cone, just to get them out for a while. Every Thursday, she would donate her time and talents to the Ely Senior Citizens’ Center, helping prepare the meal, setting tables, serving and cleaning up. She did this for many of the other special doings, giving up her weekends also at times. Her culinary talents were outstanding as all of our family will agree. How wonderful she was to share this talent with us in all the walnut and apple poticas, krofe, Christmas cookies, breads, and ethnic dishes such as žganca, štrukle, žeenkrofe, that she gave to friends and relatives. Yes, many times I would see her and her friend, Ann Lunka, pulling apple potica dough at 6:00 a.m. for a funeral that was at 10:00 a.m. Besides always giving of herself to help others, she had a beautiful garden with a variety of vegetables, raspberries and many beautiful flowers, in fact, many of her flowers were used for the church altar on weekends. She always had a fresh bouquet of flowers on her kitchen table and on the TV. Yes, she was quite a gardener, too! Rose was a retired food service worker from the Ely schools. She was employed at the Ely Shopper where she worked on Wednesdays helping to assemble the paper. She was a past-pres-ident of our SWU No. 23. She also served as chairman of a church circle for many years. As a wife and mother she was always loyal and gave of herself to insure a lovely home and good, heallhy children, volunteering for the children's activities. When my daughters were in Girl Scouts, she even got involved in scouting and spent many hours volunteering her talents and time to help the girls learn new skills and broaden their horizons. Rose is survived by her three sons, seven grandchildren, grandson and her brother: Louis “Midge” Železnikar, Plymouth, WI. and two sisters: Kris Garni and Jane Yadloski, both members of our Ely SWU No. 23. Her baptized name was Theresa Rose and I always thought she had many of the same qualities of “Mother Theresa”. For Rose, I can truly say, “wc were all blessed to have had you in our lives — each in our own special way!” We miss you!!! J.Y. NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL We met on September 15th, our first meeting of the fall season and there were seventeen members in attendance. The main topic for discussion was the IL-1N State Convention. The dinner reservations were to be made with Financial Secretary, Betty Stack who will also be the delegate. Most of those present planned to attend the convention. The members planned a card shower for Mary Sever who would have her 100th birthday on October 5. Mary has been a resident of Heritage Manner Nursing Home for several years. Our local Food Pantry is experiencing a shortage of donations of food and money and has made a special appeal for help, so we made a cash donation at this tim e and encouraged members to give food donations when their parish has its turn to collect canned goods, etc. It seems that most of us stayed home this summer and no vacations were reported with the exception of Wanita Helmer who spent several weeks in New York baby-sitting her new granddaughter and also attending the Funeral Directors Convention in Springfield and visiting her daughter and son-in-law while there. My husband and I, along with my sister and brother-in-law flew to Portland, OR where we visited with my brother, Jim Lushina and his family and attended the wedding of our niece, Amy Lushina and Blair Haber-man on September 24th. Congratulations to Jo Foley who has a new great-grandson and to Gale Nowik whose granddaughter, Angela Weihman and Shawn Flaherty were married on July 16th in Ottawa, 1L. Our congratulations and best wishes to anniversary celebrants. Treasurer Anna and Dom Serri who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on September I st and to Fannie and Tony Piletič who celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on August 31. Both couples are very active in Resurrection Parish activities; the men in the Holy Name Society and the women in the Sanctuary and Rosary Society and SWU. Fannie became a 50 year member in 1985 and Anna in 1993. We wish all of you many more happy years together and good health! Since there was no October issue of ZARJA we wish a belated “Happy Birthday” to the October birthday celebrants: Mary Sever, (100 years). Jo Grabowski, Josephine Savnik, Marie Matual, Frances Puetz, Theresa Gende, Shirley Miller. Anna Serri and junior member, Kaycie Plowman. Hope you had a Happy day and wishes for a good year ahead. Those wishes too, for a Happy November Birthday to: Darlene Krueger, Rose Furlan, Mary Gornik, Florence Smorkel, Anne Matthews, Mary Senica, Loretta Story, Helen Swietek, Mary Ann Pieczynski and her mom, Anne Pieczynski. Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, November 17, at 7:00 p.m. in La Salle Catholic School South Library. Our Christmas party will be discussed as well as the SWU National Convention which will take place next May in San Francisco. It would be wonderful to see a nice group of members in attendance again. Plan to join us. ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter NO. 30, HOME OFFICE Thanksgiving Day is always a time of recalling our blessings of the past year and gathering with our families for that delicious turkey dinner. There was a time when all the aunts, uncles, and cousins traveled to Grandmother’s house for the celebration. Today, families arc scattered and it’s not always possible to get everyone in one place at the same time. Some of us solve the problem by simply going out to a nice restaurant. But, remember the days when all the women were circling around each other in the kitchen, baking and chattering, while the men sat in the living room catching up on the year’s news'? I was usually out in the yard playing with my cousins, waiting for the call from the back door, “Dinner's ready! Come in and wash your hands!” This month, in looking through the letters from members, I’m impressed that so many of us are striving to keep our heritage and customs alive for the younger generations, even though we live far away from Slovenian communities. Josephine S. Lozar of Wickcliffe, Ohio writes, "My family still serves the Slovenian types of food on the holidays. My brother taught his children to make sausage, which they still do today. My three sisters and 1 like to reminisce about our childhood, which is one way their children learn about our heritage. Since my parents’ deaths, we speak very little Slovenian now.” Jennie McChristen of Fort Wayne, Indiana told me, “My grandparents were born in Slovenia, and although my parents were born in Colorado, they went to Slovenia. My parents died young, so I was raised my by maternal grandparents. 1 spoke Slovenian fluently, but after moving to Indiana and not meeting any Slovenians over the years, I have forgotten so much, which I wish 1 hadn’t. I’m proud of my Slovenian heritage and so are my children.” Frances Pajak of Phoenix, Arizona wrote of her fond memories - the polka dances, picnics at the park and the Slovenian choir at St. Joseph's in Joliet. "I remember when 1 was little, I use to sing to my Dad. I still remember the words. When I went back to see my son in and family in Ohio, I sang the song. They got teary-eyed and said, “Mom, we didn’t know you still remembered the words.” -I picture my Dad to this day, when he asked me to sing. Slovenia will live in my heart for the rest of my life.” Jean Stueland of Lindstrom, Maine said, “Trying to keep my heritage alive for myself and my children has become a vocation that I pursue with a passion. 1 have a large collection of Slovenian folk music, and try to keep a few phrases of the language in my mind, along with ethnic recipes.” Have a wonderful, warm Thanksgiving, everyone. May God bless you and your family in the coming year. MARY PAVLIC SWU Crest indicates the 65th Anniversary of this branch in 1994. Congratulations! LET’S GO! SAN FRANCISCO WELCOMES US! Helen Koželj Glivar: HOLYLAND PILGRIMAGE Helen Koželj Glivar is a member of Br. 25, Cleveland, Ohio for some years. She is a writer and is currently working on a book. Her story of the Holyland Pilgrimage is a joy to read and we are proud that she is sharing it with us. Thanks Helen. (CIRILA) Part I Under the leadership of Fr. David Halaiko, pastor of the Nativity of Our Lord Church in Akron; Fr. Joseph Boznar, pastor of St. Vitus Church in Cleveland; Fr. Tim Daw (Westlake, Ohio); Fr. John King (Bedford, Ohio); Corodinator - Mary Frye of Akron and together with 46 more pilgrims hoarded TWA non-stop flight from New York to Tel Aviv (Hill of Spring) on Oct. 6, 1993 which was a 12-hr. flight at 5,500 miles, going over Lisbon, Portugal; Madrid, Spain; Rome, Italy and then over the Mediterranean Sea. We were served a delicious dinner, breakfast and lunch en route. On Oct. 7 upon arrival at the Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, we were met by our land guide, a Catholic Palestinian - Nabil and our land operator (Net) an air-conditioned bus; rode to Caesarea, 30 miles away. Here St. Peter baptized Cornelius and his household and where St. Paul was imprisoned until he was shipped to Rome. We visited the restored Roman Theatre, Aquaduct, the Crusader Walls and the ancient port of Caesarea. We checked into the St. Gabriel Hotel to Nazareth where the largest Catholic Church in the Middle East is - the Basilica of the Annunciation where we reverently kissed the Holy Ground where the "Word was made Flesh" - the Latin inscription was 'Verbum Caro Hie Factum Est.’ Great joy overcame us when we gazed upon the facade of the new Cathedral built in 1935 over an older church of the Crusaders. It is made of red (for blood) and white (for purity) marble with the words of the ‘Magnificat’ carved across the entire front in letters six feet high. When we went inside we saw the upper church and in the lower church, there was a little grotto by a well where Mary drew water (each town had only one well). "In the heat of the sun, Mary withdrew into a cave where she received the message of the Angel Gabriel." The Grotto is so small; it only contains a small altar and a bench. We meditated on the holy words of the Angel! "Hail Mary, full of grace!” We all drank from this well from a dipper which one of our pilgrims held. The church has a dome in the design of a lily - the petals open down to the Grotto. Remains of the once-small village of Nazareth is in this area. Nearby is the Church of St. Joseph whose crypt contains more remains of ancient Nazareth. We sang hymns and intercessionary prayers from our beautiful Holyland Handbook compiled by Fr. Halaiko. On Oct. 8 we crossed the Valley of Jezreel, arriving at Megiddo (the ancient city guarding the Carmel Range). There were spectacular remains of walls, palaces, temples and stables; we walked thorugh a water tunnel, an ancient engineering feat; travelled up to Mount Carmel to Muhraga (site of the Prophet Elijah’s confrontation with the pagan prophets of Baal.) Here a beautiful church - Stella Maris (Star of the Sea) overlooks the blue Mediterranean Sea. We drove along Haifa Bay to Akko, a walled port city which has a Tell (Mound) with 25 layers of civilization and climbed down 120 steps to a spring and up again 78 more steps. We then celebrated Mass on Mount Tabor (1800 ft. high), the traditional site of the Transfiguration in a Franciscan Church. Here Jesus showed His Divine glory with the apparitions of Elijah and Moses standing next to Him with Peter, John and James, the 3 apostles as witnesses! At Tabgha we celebrated Mass at the Church of the Primacy outdoors. Jesus asked Peter 3 times if he loved Him - entrusted unto him the ‘Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven.’ A dozen heart-shaped stones, once the pediments of a large church in the first century A.D. Nearby in the Church of the Multiplication is a stone upon which Jesus placed 2 fishes. The present structure stands above 2 churches erected in the first and fourth centuries. We commemorated this miracle in this tilth century A.D. Byzantine Basilica of the Multiplication of the Loaves and (he Fishes; the remains of the mosaic floor clearly depicts this event and was greatly admired! At Caesarea Phillippi, Peter confessed to Jesus that He was truly the Son of God. At the Mount of the Beatitudes, Fr. Halaiko recited: ‘Blest the poor in spirit; the reign of God is theirs’ etc. To be continued In the above picture we see the "pilgrims" our Helen Glivar writes about in this article. The second installment follows next month. HEUJ PRSTDR AT ST. RNTHOriY’S CHURCH Fr. Peter M. Mihalič is the new pastor of St. Anthony de Padua Church in Fairport Harbor, Ohio where many of our members live. He is the son of our Br. 25 member, Mary Mihalič and nephew of Fred Križman, well-known attorney of Cleveland-Euclid (and the Editor’s uncle!) Father Peter was installed as the new pastor in a ceremony on July 10th officiated by Bishop Edward Pevec. Students of Theology know him as their professor for many years at Borromeo College. We know he will serve the parishioners of St. Anthony’s well, and the young and elderly people will find him a true friend. Mary Mihalič is our fine member of Br. 25 and is deservedly proud of her son, Fr. Peter. JURISDICTIONAL MEETINGS CONTINUED: Minnesota: President Korsman stated that she would be holding one or two meetings (workshops) concerning protocol and credentials of the elected delegates. In a short talk. National President Tory Bobence informed the members about their obligations as delegates to ihe National Convention. She also encouraged those present to "Keep the Connection", purchase cookbooks and enroll friends and relatives, especially grandchildren as Junior members. She complimented the Minnesota delegation for their up-to-date bookkeeping and their enthusiasm for SWU. The ladies “passed the basket” and $110.35 was collected and sent to Irene Odorizzi, director, for the “Heritage Fund.” The meeting adjourned at 11:37 a.m. and members went upstairs to Mass. The most Reverend Father Fred Method (a former Biwabik Parish Priest) was the celebrant. National President Tory Bobence, Jean Korsman and Dorothy Jamnik presented the gifts at the altar. An inspirational homily was given hy Father Method; he spoke about “Faith With Works” as cfur spiritual goal. The group then went downstairs to enjoy a delicious Swiss steak dinner, with walnut potica and a strawberry sundae for dessert. The tables were set with a fall motif and each lady was given a pen enclosed in a woven holder. Father Method gave the invocation and blessing. The dinner speaker was John Daugherty, a local funeral director well known for his humor and historic reminiscinces. The group enjoyed his talk, and also the accordian players who entertained us with ethnic music. Numerous donated prizes were distributed, although the final raffle drawing had to be postponed as certain tickets had not reached the committee. The program ended after some appropriate remarks and pertinent reminders from National President Tory Bobence, who was given a standing ovation for her outstanding job as National President for the past eight years. We in Minnesota are so proud of Tory, one of “our own.” Branch 39, Biwabik, MN, will host the State Convention in 1995. Respectfully submitted, Jean Korsman, State President Wisconsin: The banquet was at I:()() p.m. It was a delicious family style dinner. After dinner Msgr. Malnar gave a talk about his coming to Willard and about his life in Willard. He was very interesting to listen to. Afterward, we enjoyed a raffle and a short program with some youngsters singing Slovenian songs and then the adult choir sang a few songs. They were accompanied on the accordian by Frank Pakiz. We all moved across the street to the Athletic Center to have a sing-a-long. Everyone had a great time and when the time came to leave for home no one wanted to leave. Msgr. Malnar and Frank and his accordian were on hand to wish us farewell along with Mary Staut who was the chairperson of this Convention and did such a great job! We had a safe trip home. Thanks again, Willard Branch 102, for a great Convention. Joan Yaklich Acting State President POTS and PANS -- CONVENTION FUND Report of Income and Disbursements January 1 to December 31, 1993 Balance January 1, 1993 .................................. $5,869.08 Income: Sales - Cookbooks .............................. 13,319.50 Interest earned....................................92.01—13.411.51 $19,280.59 Disbursements; Payments on cookbooks (Paid in full) ........$10,000.00 Shipping costs..................................... 500.32__10.500 3? Balance December 31, 1993 .................................. 8,780.27 MEMO: Due on books shipped on consignment (Accounts receivable) ................................. $7,670.00 Olga Ancel, Nat'I Secretary 32, EUCLID, OH July 26th was a beautiful day to spend at the Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha in Bedford, Ohio for a Pilgrimage to St. Anne. It was also the feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Pres. Ann Cooke, Alma Eppich, Lavona Avitt, Josephine Gornik and myself spent the day at the Shrine. State Regional Pres. Evelyn Majercik was also present with about 45 members from the different branches of greater Cleveland. A very delicious dinner was served. Mass was in the morning; devotions were in the afternoon. We are sad to report the death of our long-time members, Theresa Popovič. Burial was from St. Robert’s Church in August. Member Ann Deptola lost her mother, Anna Ulichnie in July. Our deepest sympathy to the Popovič and Deptola families and friends in their loss. Member Katherine Krajewski, daughter of our member, Jean and husband Edward said her marriage vows to Ronald Gambino on Aug. 19th at St. Noel Church. Ann Rossman’s niece Colleen Corrigan said her vows to Terry Pizza. Josephine and Albert Comensek celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. Congratulations to the couples. May they have many happy, healthy years together. Emilie Kerzman’s grandson, Michael and wife, Mary Ellen Drob-nick who live in Joliet presented her with a great grandson, Ryan Christopher on Aug. 13th. Congratulations and we wish them a very happy, healthy family. Rose Brancely had her daughter-in-law Marie and granddaughter Melissa visiting her over the holiday week-end of Labor Day. They enjoyed being together and doing a sight-seeing tour on the Trolley and eating out in some fine restaurants. They traveled from Saco, Maine to visit Rose. Charlotte Perdan with her family flew to Disneyworld in Orlando, FL for a week’s vacation. A good time was had by all with some hot weather. Jean McNulty, being very lucky at St. Christine’s on Bingo, won a trip for two to Las Vegas and took her lady-fricnd with her, so we hope they had the best of luck! Faye Starman received a letter from our Nat’l Secretary, Olga Ancel telling her how much they enjoyed the Polica Cake which she made from the recipe that was in ZARJA. Faye was very pleased to hear this. Christine Verch flew down to Houston, TX to visit her friend and family. The friends drove her back in their van which she enjoyed because she had a chance to see other parts of our U.S. A group of our members were getting excited about going to Michigan for the Ohio-Michigan State Convention Oct. 16th. They traveled by motorcoach. Br. 105 planned to have a Polka Mass and then lunch and a meeting. It was a very interesting trip. Oct. 19th was the date for Mass at St. Christine’s for our living and deceased members. In Nov. we will have election of officers. Dec. will be our Christmas party. Hope all members will be able to attend these meetings. Sick members Ceal Znider, Mary Zifko, Esther Garbincus, Carolina Kaliope and any other ill members are wished a speedy recovery to good health. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Happy Birthday and anniversary to all who are celebrating their special days. Christine Verch had her 75th birthday in Sept. Her family and friends surprised her with a big party. Mary Golobic had her 85th and Mary treated us to her delicious cheese strudel at the Sept. meeting. Our hostesses, Ceal and Adrienne McLean served us an angel food cake with strawberries and whipped cream. Each month they surprise us with a very good dessert. Thanks, ladies. Our member, Nettie Pristov has moved to Florida. Her new address is 4654 Los Rios St., North Port, FL 34287-1642. I’m sure she would like to hear from her friends. Please attend the meeting and bring a friend. FRANCES OGOREUC P.S. — Our blind auction at the Sept. meeting was very successful. It will help our treasury very much. Thanks ladies, for being so kind. 33, DULUTH, MN There were I I members at Minn. Day at St. Leo’s in Hibbing, Sept. 11. Spaghetti Dinner was Sept. 28. Oct. 5 “Anniversary" Dinner was at Deerfield’s Convention Delegate selection. Prayers for members on “sick list’’. Beverly Menart, Emily Skull, Anna Joe) Mrak, Ida Dincau, Peggy Collard, Louise McCaffrey, Louise Turchi, Mary Bart I. Sympathy Prayers: Elizabeth Smolnikar, brother; Rose Borland, sister; Ruth Boben and Thyra Rukovina, brother. Wedding congratulations to Mary Spehar; she and her mother, Sutina are both members. Congratulations on new babies: Lisa (Menart) McDonald, mother; Beverly Menart, grandmother, Ann Menart, grandchild, Anna Strukle, great grandchild. Christmas/Election meeting on Dec. 7. Happy Holidays! LOIS PELANDER, Reporter 34, SOUDAN, MN It seems I heard “the summer was so busy” again and again when we had our first meeting of the season on September 21, and I do believe all of us had plenty to do, with regular chores and entertaining or being entertained! Agnes Mattson and Margaret Mesojedec were hostesses for our meeting, the door prize was brought by Angela Tekautz and won by Lucille Svatos. Other winners at the meeting were Marge Skala, Agnes Tekautz, Emma Betourne and Adeline Musto-nen. Wc had a good representation from our branch for MN Day in Hibbing and Branch 56 did a great job — one of our members and my sister, Theresa Berg, won the $50 in the raffle. We will be looking forward to being in Biwabik next year. Right now we are planning our 65th anniversary of our branch. We planned to celebrate on October 19 with Mass at 5 p.m. with a dinner afterward at the Tower Cafe. Our branch was founded on October 6, 1929 at the home of Frances Loushin with 18 ladies attending... we have one charter member remaining and she is Mary Gornick, also our Auditor of many years. Wc were to elect new officers at our meeting after the dinner. We will combine our anniversary with Founder’s Day, which we usually celebrate in November. We decided to have afternoon meetings in January and February because of the weather which usually is colder, it will be easier for us ladies to drive when it is daylight, too. All our members were given copies of the information for the National Convention in San Francisco which we had received from our National President, Tory Bobence. Our delegate will be chosen at our October meeting. We want to thank Helen Dragavon of Mt. Iron for her generous donation to our branch, thank you, Helen. A few of us visited in Duluth with four of the Benedictine Sisters from Soudan, Srs. Boniface Dragavon, Ruth Schweiger, Maxine and Antonia Erchul at the St. Scholastica Priory and we had such a lovely afternoon with them. They read the ZARJA and enjoy it very much. Our branch had three deaths in a short time, Molly Wilson on April 22, Helen Chiabotti on June 30, and Rose Pecha on July 25 — they were remembered with eulogies, our banner was displayed at each funeral. Molly was in the SWU for 31 years, Helen for 38 years and Rose for 42 years — now you know why we have to enroll new members. We send our sympathy to all their families — Molly had been an officer, Helen had enjoyed coming to our meetings often until she entered the nursing home in Virginia. Rose continued her membership and I'm sure she kept up with our branch through the ZARJA and the local paper. Enjoy our beautiful fall colors, the weather is changing! ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter “San francisco Welcomes Usi Membership Campaign, April-September Results The six-month results show a gain of 81 new members plus 13 Junior transfers: 20, Joliet, IL 18 Individual workers are: 108, Virginia Beach, VA 11 43, Milwaukee, Wl 6 Jonita Ruth (20) 8 13, San Francisco, CA 5 Alan Boštjančič (108) 5 34, Soudan-Tower, MN 4 Patricia Figurowski (20) 4 35, Aurora, MN 4 Alouise Fpley (73) 4 73, Warrensville Hts., 011 4 Linda Fischer (108) 3 2, Chicago, IL 3 Mary Lou Mathews (108) 3 12, Milwaukee, WI 3 June Patrick (13) 2 47, Garfield Hts., OH 2 Mary Rozman (20) 2 50, Cleveland, OH 2 Margaret Louch (20) 2 95, South Chicago, IL 2 Helen Adkisson (34) 2 1, Sheboygan, WI 1 Rosalie Dovnik (43) 2 5, Indianapolis, IN 1 Matilda Simcic (43) 2 30, Home Office 1 Amelia Cuzella (95) 2 42, Maple Heights, OH 1 Individual workers total 33 79, Enumclaw, WA 1 89, Oglesby. IL I 101, Bedford Hts., OH 1 103, Washington, D.C. 1 105, Detroit, MI 1 Please add your name and branch to the above listing! Olga Ancel, Nat’I Secy. Additional 60 plus responded to the Poll agreeing to yearly dues payment in December or January. Many branches have initiated early payment of dues some years ago. It seems early payment of dues ought to be automatic and a habit and thus display consideration to the secretary. “POTS & PANS” COOKBOOK $13.50 p. & h - 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 ff' ^ First Midwest Bank 50 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, II. 60431 (815) 727-5222 Wc take time to help. Equal Mousing Lender Member FDIC N(815) 744-2822 OVIELLI MEMORIALS Since 1934 1214 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, IL 60435 TEZAK FUJSTERAL HOME Welcomes Lydia Marquardt to their professional staff of pre-arrangement Counselor's Licensed Producer's: Richard K. Tczak Lydia Marquardt LUTCI-' (74I-0427) (Forethought Trust) American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) Call for information and a free booklet "For Future Reference" (815) 722-0524 HERMINE PRISLAND DICKE 3717 COUNCIL CREST MADISON, Wl 53711 FOR THE HOLIDAYS! PotS and Pans Two more prize-winning recipes are yours to enjoy from Faye Starman of Newbury, OH: First prize winning recipe is a wonderful RAISIN-NUT REFRIGERATOR DOUGH POTICA and third prize, CHOCOLATE CHIP NUT BREAD. For the men who raise the wheat, -For the bread we get to eat - For the cattle that we need, - For the pastures where they feed. WE THANK THEE, LORD. For our humble, small abode, - For the blessings You bestowed, - For the roof that shields the storm, - For the walls that keep us warm, WE THANK THEE, LORD. Anthony J. Pettito HAPPY THANKSGIVING, dear readers! Affectionately, Hermine. RAISIN-NUT REFRIGERATOR DOUGH POTICA 2 packages dry yeast 1 tablespoon sugar 1 cup warm water In large bowl, dissolve the dry yeast in warm water and sugar. Let stand to foam, about 10 minutes. 3 whole eggs, room temperature 4I;2 to 5 cups flour l'i cup dry powdered milk (depends on brand) lii cup sugar I cup melted butter I teaspoon salt And eggs, powdered milk, sugar and salt to yeast mixture. Add flour on top, pour melted butter on flour and stir with wooden spoon until blended, about 5 minutes (no electric mixer). Knead with only one or two strokes, if necessary. Put in medium bowl and then into the refrigerator overnight, covered. RAISINS: Soak a good half box of white raisins (15 ounces) in I ounce of rum or amaretto overnight. Remove bowl from refrigerator and set in a warm place until dough is ready to roll out, about one hour. Meanwhile prepare your pans and favorite filling or use the following recipe. PANS: Grease three 12-inch pans or four 9 x 5-inch bread pans. FILLING: to 2 pounds finely 2 tablespoons honey ground walnuts lli cup sour cream cup white sugar Flavor: grated orange or lemon •'2 cup brown sugar rind, or 1 tablespoon vanilla cup scalded milk 5 egg whites, room temperature cup butter or margarine l/2 cup sugar, sprinkle over raisins To walnuts add the sugars. Scald milk; add butter and heat on low until butter melts. Stir hot mixture into nuts. Mix in honey and sour cream. Beat egg whites until stiff; fold into nut mixture. Finally, fold in flavor choice. On floured cloth roll out dough to 26 x 40 inches. Spread with filling to 1-inch from edge of wider side to roll last. Spread rum soaked raisins evenly over filling; sprinkle with sugar. Roll up wider side of dough. To remove doughy ends cut off 1 inch with edge of plate and bake as dinner rolls. Pierce dough 3 to 4 times with a meat fork to prevent air holes. Cut dough with plate to fit greased pans. Place pans of dough in bread wrappers and fold ends under - this gives warmth to the dough when rising. When doubled in bulk, about 2 hours, brush tops with a beaten egg for a shiny crust. Bake at 350° for about an hour until medium brown. To prevent overbrowning top with aluminum foil, shiny side down, last 30 minutes, or use brown paper bag cut to cover loaves. Cool in pans about 20 minutes; place upside down on rack. NOTE: Faye has several recipes for refrigerated dough but finds the one used as the easiest to pul together. It was given to her by Val Mervar of Br. 47 (Garfield Heights) who lives in Newbury. Ermenc-McLeod Funeral Home 5325 W. Greenfield Ave. Phone: 327-4500 Milwaukee, Wisconsin HONIG 25224 W. Eames Street, Channahon, IL 60410 Office: (815) 467-3140 Home: (815) 726-4129 FAX: (815) 467-3146 ROSANNE RUTH REALTOR Member of Branch 20, Š. W. U. r CHOC-CHIP NUT BREAD I cup lukewarm milk I 'i packages dry yeast 4 tablespoons sugar I teaspoon salt 4*^ cups sifted flour l;2 pound melted butter 3 egg yolks, room temperature In large bowl, warm milk; add yeast, sugar and salt. Let stand until foamy, about-10 minutes. Add flour, butter and egg yolks to the yeast mixutre. Mix well. Cover and set in refrigerator overnight or at least 5 to 6 hours during the day. Remove dough from refrigerator and let stand until it is ready to roll out, about one hour. Meanwhile grease a potica pan, 12 x 1 l/i inches and prepare filling. FILLING: 3 egg whites I cup sugar cup ground nuts 'i bag of 12-ounce size mini chocolate chips Beat egg white until stiff; add I cup sugar slowly and beat; add ground nuts. Allow dough to rise until doubled in bulk. Roll out dough to 12 x 18 inches. Spread with filling to I-inch from edge of narrow side. Sprinkle chips over filling. Roll up dough and place in greased pan. Cover. Allow to rise in warm place until doubled. Bake 1 hour at 350°. summer at the ball park and supplied several additions to the Wheeler trophy case. James, David and their mom are all our members. Congratulations to Martin and Diane Urick who are the proud parents of a daughter, Jenna Mary, born on Sept. 26th. Jenna Mary has a two year old sister, Kaila, who is mommy’s helper now! Congratulations and best wishes to Herman and Helen Zuponcic (our 1992 Mother ol the Year), and to John and Mary Noson who celebrated their 50th Anniversaries this fall. May you all enjoy many more years of good health and happiness together. Best wishes to our young people who are back in school this fall. Hostesses for the Oct. 12th meeting at Holy Rosary Church Hall were Florence Holland and Dorothy Jamnik. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! ANNE M. ORAZEM 35, AURORA, MN Since I didn’t get a report in the last issue this will be a summary of the last couple meetings. An interesting Regional President’s luncheon meeting took place on June 7th. Br. 56, hosts for Minnesota Day in Hibbing on Sept. 11th had all their plans ready for the special day and we hoped a lot of members would attend. Again, we were fortunate to have our National President, Tory Bobence with us. She always gives us such an interesting report. She talked about the National Convention, picking delegates, sending in their Credentials, etc. Each delegate must have her Credentials at the time she registers at the convention. A meeting for all delegates and alternates from our area will be held next April to prepare them for the convention. We wish to thank Tory for all her help and keeping us well-informed about our S.W.U. On Aug. 18th thirty members including one out-of-town member of Br. 30, Barbara Vodovnik, were present at a luncheon meeting. Plans were then made to attend Minn. Day in Hibbing. We all enjoyed the thank you notes which were read from our Jr. members who made their First Holy Communions and were remembered with cards and monetary gifts from our branch. We wish to welcome our new mem- bers; Julia Marie Menard, who joins her sisters, Jennie and Marie and mother who are all members of our branch. Julia is the daughter of Tony and Connie Menart of Eveleth. Dorothy Jamnik gave a report of our Regional President's meeting held in June. Get well wishes to all our members who are ill. Glad to see Marie Ball well again. Two of our members had knee surgery and are doing well - they are Dorothy Jamnik and Ann Mismash. Take care! Dorothy Jamnik’s daughter from Montrose, MI spent the summer with her and took care of her while Dorothy recovered from surgery. Dorothy, your mom said you were an excellent nurse! We extend our belated sympathy to all the families who lost loved ones this summer: Klandar family lost their father, Roger; Olga Berdice lost her brother, Ed Železnikar, Linda Cazin lost her father, Rudy, Mary L. Smolich lost her husband, Rudy, Julie Smith lost her grandmother, Mayme Glavan and Dorothy Jamnik lost her nephew, Joseph. May they rest in peace. Congratulations to our grandson, James and his team who won their League Championship and went on to win the Coon Rapids Little League Invitational Tournament. James’ Dad was their coach and his mom was “team mom” for James and his brother, David’s (7) team. It was a fun family NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN Br. 38 of Chisholm met on August 10th, after a 2-month vacation. Vice Pres. Jennie Briski presided in the absence of Charlotte Laurich. Branch 38 extends greetings to our ill members: Theresa Gerzin, Frances Gregorich, Frances Komidor, and Mildred Bashel who are confined in Chisholm, and Sylvia Lipovitz in Hibbing and Frances Schaefer in Champlin, MN. Also to Frances Enrico who suffered a broken hip as a result of a fall. She is confined at Queen of Peace 1 lospital in Mitchel, So. Dakota. Lunch committee for Sept. were: Jennie Samsa, Dolly Brusacoram, and Anne Nickovich. Those who celebrated birthdays: in June, Ann Nusich, and August, Lucy Namisnik; the traveling prize was given to Rose Stonemark, and door prizes were drawn by Jo Zupancich, Ann Polichnik, and Ann Arko. * * * A very interesting and informative meeting took place on Wednesday, Sept. 7 in Chisholm, MN. Nineteen Branch 38 members were present. The temperature outside reached 80 degrees for the day ... what a perfect fall day! Br. 38 made plans for the annual Halloween Card Party and Luncheon PICTURE ON THE COVER... The “Great Pumpkin” in Duluth, MN Tony McDonell, age 5, a junior member of Branch 33, with his Papa’s help, grew this “200# plus giant” in his Papa’s garden. 1’he seeds originated from Chili and cost $2.50 for 5 seeds! (Tony picked out the seeds at the greenhouse and we didn’t realize the price until we got home and looked at the seed packet!) Only two of the seeds germinated. They started growing very slowly for more than a month. Then they really took off! Some of the leaves measured 1-1/2 feet across. We picked off all of the blossoms but a few and once the pumpkins formed you could watch them grow by the day. They completely took over the garden! This one settled behind the pole beans, and its “partner” settled in the raspberries. Yes, we grew two of them! Tony won Best of Show - Vegetable class, at the Stowe School Fruit, Flower and Vegetable Show, where he is a Kindergarten student. See, we really do have a growing season in Northern Minnesota! Tony’s mom is Lisa McDonell, Branch 33 member. His Nana is Bev Menart, President of Branch 33 and his baby brother, Andrew Benjamin, born Sept. 12, 1994 is Branch 33’s newest member. which was to take place on Sunday, Oct. 30th at the Slovenski Dom, Jennie Samsa and members of our branch to the luncheon (as usual) and Frances Zalec and Rose Niemi and others to work on the raffle which features home made noodles, potica cakes, etc., etc. We hoped to have some male attendance, as last year, and we hoped for a large attendance. This may help a delegate for the trip to San Francisco in 1995. Eighteen members were to attend the State Convention on Sept. II, in Hib-bing, MN. Hopefully those who have Slovenian Dresses wore them! We were informed that Sylvia Lipovetz had surgery, and we pray that she will recover completely very soon. Also, best wishes to Frances Enrico and to Rosemary Tanko who are still on the sick list. We want all of you to be able to attend our annual Christmas Party! It will be here before we know it. We wish everyone in Br. 38 a Happy Thanksgiving. There were 3 members celebrating birthdays in September, Rose Niemi, Rose Faras, and Ann McAlpine. Happy belated birthday! The following members in attendance had their names for prizes: Ann Nusich, Fran Zalec, Charlotte, and Ann McAlpine. Br. 38 of Chisholm, MN met on Wed., October 5th. The enthusiastic members present accomplished a lot of business, and were looking forward to the Halloween Card Party and Luncheon on Oct. 30. The following members volunteered to contributed to the raffle: Apple strudel from Jennie Samsa; a Potica Cake from Rose Niemi, and Noodles from Frances Zalec. Our nominating committee will be calling members regarding taking an office for the year 1995. Members of the committee are Rose Niemi, Jennie Samsa and Jo Zupancich. And our Annual Christmas Party will be on Dec. 7th. A calling committee will be contacting all members for reservations. On the lunch committee for the Nov. 2nd meeting will be: Florence Fryckman, Helen Kochevar, and Anne McAlpine. We are sorry to report that our only charter member, Mayme Pahula, is confined at Heritage Manor. And Frances Enrico is recuperating from a fall. Sylvia Lipovetz is recovering from recent surgery. Br. 38 members are praying for the complete and rapid recovery of all of these dear sisters. ANN NUSICH, Reporter NO. 40, LORAIN, OH Twenty-one came to our Sept. meeting. Dessert was served by Mary Ferlič, Rose Jancar, Rose Knezetic and Annette Septaric. I was lucky and won the door prize. We made plans for our Christmas dinner. It will be held at the German Villa on Dec. 7, 1994 at I p.m. For reservations call Agnes at 245-3919. We picked Angie Voytko as our delegate to the national convention in May 1995 in San Francisco. Rose Jancar will be an alternate. We signed a petition that all should start paying dues for a whole year beginning in Jan. 1995 and don't forget the extra dollar to help defray the cost of the ZARJA. Angie Tomazine’s sister passed away recently. We wish to express our sincere sympathy. We wish a quick recovery to all our sick members especially Sue Tomazic, Annette Septaric and Irene Kokinda. We will be missing Agnes Drstven-sek and Rose Knezetic who will be spending the winter in Florida. Alice Rutar and Mary Gradišek and husbands returned recently from a week long trip to Branson, Missouri. They saw Andy Williams, Bobby Winton, Rich Little and other entertainers. They were also on a River Boat Casino in St. Louis and went on the Arch in St. Louis; enjoyed it very much. My grandson Anthony Mercurio was voted football player of the week at Mount Union College. They won their first two games. As a result he will have lunch with his coaches. Tony expects to graduate in May, 1995 with 2 degrees in business and economics. His brother Michael who is in the Air Force in Louisiana was picked for Air Man of the Month. He hopes to pursue a career in pharmacy. Don’t forget to pray for our poor souls in November. Hope to see you at our Nov. 9th meeting at I p.m. Love, MARY MATOS Every day will / bless you... (Psalms 145:2) “AN ORGANIZATION THAT STANDS STILL, GOES BACKWARDS” Valuable information and guidelines for the election of your Convention Delegate(s) which is due during these months of November and December, were sent to every branch last May by our president, Tory Bobence. Please read over the points she has so graciously compiled for your consideration. If your branch sends a delegate to the convention, that individual must: * Prepare to make wise decisions regarding the future of the entire organization not only her branch. * Be qualified, responsible and willing to accept a National Office if nominated and elected. * Aware of new and creative ideas that can be shared with the entire delegation for increasing funds and membership. * Encourage a positive attitude with all members contrary to “we can’t get members” or “no one wants to do anything" “there are no young people to be officers.” * Return home energized and willing to: * introduce new ideas and projects * involve more members in the decision making and chairmanship roles of the branch. * promote the Slovene heritage to the entire community. * enroll new members especially young adults and allow them to become involved by suggesting ideas & projects of interest to their age. * seek out adults that can develop activities for junior members. * promote heritage & cultural activities. 11 Q 11 |111 #U 11 f HABERMANN Funeral Home 805 N. 6th Street Sheboygan, WI 53081 SHELIGA DRUG INC. 6025 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 431-1035 Serving our neighborhoods’ daily needs AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOLIC UNION + Ask About "KSKJ ANNUITIES" A New Beginning HOME OFFICE: 2439 GLENWOOD AVENUE • JOLIET, IL 60435 • (800) 843-5755 ZEFRAN FUNERAL HOME Louis Ron Zefran Frank J. Zefran Marilyn E. Zefran Lois M. Zefran 1941 West Cermak Road Chicago, IL 60608 847-6688 GRDINA - FAULHABER FUNERAL HOME 17010 Lake Shore Blvd. 4703 Superior Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 531-6300 Funeral Pre-Need Planning - Trusts NO. 42, MAPLE HEIGHTS, OH Hello Ladies! Wow! This year has moved right along and already is drawing to a close. The saying, "the older you get, the faster the time passes “seems to be true. Our news this month starts with congratulations to Jeanic and Joe Offutt who celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary on August 23, 1994. Our very best wishes to you both. Ann Ferko’s number 16 grandson of her 18 grandchildren was married October 15th in Columbus, OH. She also is a proud great-grandmother of 27 children. Mary Lou Prhne, our Florida member and former branch secretary, was visiting in Cleveland since mid-August through mid-October. It was nice to see her. A visitor from Florida was Danny Vercek, son of Vida and Eugene. Always nice to have family around. We are very sad to say that Margaret Lipnos passed away August 10, 1994. Margie was a devoted member since 1950 and she will be missed by her friends. Condolences to her husband Albert and family. Also Branch 42 sends condolences to Branch 47 on the loss of their past President Jennie Gerk and also to her daughters, Olga Dor-chak and Elsie Spellacy and their families. Our birthdays for October and November include happy wishes to Jeanie Offutt, Francis Tornsic, Jamie Wilk, Amy Thompson, Tracey Buehner, Lynn Kossakoski, Jo Stoltz, Louise Toth, Elyse Harr, Betty Gawor, Cilka Hocever, Jennifer Kosak-Salonia, and Teresa Gorup. The next meeting is scheduled for November 8th at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at the SNH. Please mark your calendar and make the effort to attend. Christmas plans to be finalized. All received a letter with raffle tickets (fund raiser). If you need more, call our Lodge Secretary, at 467-0696. Raffle and Pot Luck Christmas dinner scheduled for December 13th. Please make reservations for yourself and your spouse or friend. Many thanks to Fer-folia and Sons for the printing of the tickets. Keep your prayers going for our ill. (Jn Jlouinc 3 - Frances Mramor (80) 29-yr member 10 - Amelia Novak (93) 43-yr member 17 - Antonia Bruno (85) 45-yr member 23 - Theresa Novak (80) 30-yr member 25 - Katherine Drazumerich (94) 51 -yr member 32 - Teresa Popovich (74) 45-yr member 42 - Margaret Lipnos (71) 44-yr member 43 - Agnes Bachun (92) 50-yr member Mary Bushnik (83) 41-yr member 47 - Jennie Gerk (94) 60-yr member 50 - Helen Levstick (80) 31 -yr member 71 - Mary Toplisek (70) 9-yr member 95 - Sylvia Werner (72) 39-yr member f shut-ins and our ZARJA reporter, Dorothy Mehosky, who recently had a health scare. Blessed and peaceful Thanksgiving greetings to all! Z Bogom, MARGE CHURCH NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Style Show and Luncheon on Sept. 17th was a success! A nice group of ladies and men attended - 141 in all. Everyone enjoyed the lunch and the beautiful models. The bridal gowns were gorgeous and naturally, the models in them, too. Little girls and our adult members were models. You all did a great job! We want to thank everyone who' attended, all who helped in any way. Thanks, ladies, who sold the tickets, especially Jackie Nimmer who sold the most tickets and thanks to all who donated prizes, flancate for dessert. Thank you. one and all, from the bottom of our hearts! Sept. meeting was well attended. A couple of our ladies did forget and two of the regulars were absent because of a death in the family. The birthday girls served a delicious lunch and because our president, Josie Janezic had gone to Slovenia, our vice-president conducted the meeting. Mary Martino, you did a good job; Josie, we hope you have a nice time in Slovenia and a safe return. Our Annual Poultry Card Party was discussed. Tickets arc on sale. Please call me at 421-1243. We promise you a good time, lots of nice prizes, afghan raffle, good food, bakery grocery basket, etc. Please set aside the date of Nov. 13th for Br. 43 and come to our party. Welcome, one and all! Since there was no October ZARJA, I missed wishing October-born members a Happy Birthday, but you were all in our thoughts. My sister, Theresa Pucko from Gilbert, MN was also born in October. As I am writing this article, a box with two beautiful afghans and a package of home-made noodles arrived via UPS from her. She makes it possible for me to donate them for the card parties. Thanks, Theresa - they are beautiful gifts, just like the ones you made for me before. Theresa is our member, too. “Karhekljaj naprej -sem Ti zelo hvaležna!” Happy birthday to November members: Aleah Dovnik, Michelle Goldmann, Celia Dvornik, (Fla.), Theresa Kotar, Angeline Johnstone, Mary Mohorko (Oshkosh), Jan Gehm, Mary Pucel, Julia Rechlitz, Kathleen Wolfgram and our new member, Manuel Zelarya. Jen Luzar is back home from Rehab. Center; also Ann Hiller is back at St. Anne Nursing Home. She had her leg amputated. So sorry, ladies, and we are remembering you in our prayers. To other sick and shut-in members, we think of you and wish you well. Mary Leskosek, get well soon, we miss you. We lost a good member and our Auditor, Mary Bushnik. Due to a stroke she spent a lew months in a nursing home and alter a second fatal stroke, left us forever in August. Mary, we miss you very much. Another member, Agnes Baehun died suddenly 011 Sept. 27th. Just two days before, she had attended the Vinska Trgatev picnic at Triglav Park and enjoyed the good food and music. She died quietly at the age of 92. Our deepest sympathy to Edd Gallun, her brother, and Klsie Gallun, her sister-in-law. May the Good Lord reward them for all the good things they did while among us. May both members rest in peace. Our condolences also to Eleanor Ro/.ek. Her sister passed away after a long illness. Hope to see you at our next meeting - we like to see more members attend. Let's keep our branch strong. Happy Thanksgiving to all - Lep pozdrav - Regards! MATILDA SIMCIC NO. 47, GARFIELD HIS., OH Can t believe that summer came and went so fast. We're all sad to see it go but we welcome autumn with all its beauty and forthcoming holidays. Since we had no meetings during the summer months our September meeting was well attended. It was nice to see most of our regular members in attendance plus a few more we haven't seen for a while, just like coming home again. Our Ohio State Convention was held Sunday October 16th in Detroit, Michigan. Keep in mind our National Convention coming up in May of 1995 in San Francisco, Cal. Sorry to say our Wine Festival (Vinska Trgatev) has been cancelled this year (due to not enough workers). Hope we can say different next year. Welcome three new members: Mildred Stautihar (B member), Hermine Mezgec (social), and Samantha HHIIIHIIIIItHINNIIIIHHHNIIIUNHIIIIIINIIII Jenny Gerk, Past President Born Ivanka Kljun on December 30, 1900 in Podgrad, Slovenia (at that time Austria-Hungary). Emigrated to the United States in November of 1923. in January of 1924 married Jacob Zadnik and became widowed on May 20, 1938. On December 2, 1939 married Joseph Gerk. She was the last member of a family of ten to pass away on Friday, August 26. 1994. She is survived by daughters Elsie, willow of George Spellacy and Olga, widow of Alex Dorchak. Other survivors are grand-daughters, Jane Spellacy, who lives in Ambridge, PA, Katherine Wallace, husband Bruce and great grandchildren David, Elizabeth, and John who reside in Cuyahoga Falls. Also surviving are grandson George and wife, Jane who live in Garfield I Its. Grandson Joseph and wife, Jane Frances and great granddaughters Sarah, Samantha and Stephanie who live in New Mexico. Also surviving are Kathleen Dorchak, husband Robert Hall and stepson Jason who live in Silver Lake and Diane Fornaro, husband Anthony who reside in Mantua. She was a parishioner of St. Laurence Church - Altar Society, a member of many societies and a 60-year member and Past-Prcsident of Slovenian Women’s Union of America, Br. 47 of Garfield Hts. She will be sadly missed by all. May she Rest in Peace! Spellacy (junior). Congratulations are in order to Mary and Tony Kociancic, a lovely couple who celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary 011 August 26th with her family and many many friends. Her daughter and son-in-laws were hosts at their home in Highland Heights. Mary has been a member of Br. 47 for 25 years. Barbara Kočevar, Granddaughter of Rose Kočevar, was married 011 Sept. I()th, St. Gregory’s Church in South Euclid to Paul Zinner. Barbara’s dad, John Kočevar is Mayor of South Euclid. Brian Holder, grandson of Rose Kočevar was married a week later on Sept. 17th to Heather Thompson in Atlanta, Georgia and wc wish them many more blessed healthy years together, and to Rose I locevar, as the old saying goes, she’s eating with the big spoon for two consecutive weeks in a row! We are saddened by the passing of our beloved member Jennie Gerk. a past president and 60-year member of Br. 47. We will all miss her. She would have been 95 years old on December 30th. May she and all our deceased Rest in Peace. To all our Nov.-Dec. ladies. Happy Birthday. Welcome back home to Annie and Andy Harsh. Andy, we are all glad you are feeling better each day. Glad to see that Mary Culkar is 011 the mend, too. To all our other sick members and those in rest homes, the best of health. Our Christmas Pot Luck party, Sunday. Dec. 4, SN1L Maple Hts., I o’clock as other years. Bring groceries to fill baskets and gifts for raffling. November, the month of All Saints and All Souls day. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. Check your lodge books; if in arrear please take care your dues. Respectfully submitted, MARY TAUCHER NO. 50, EUCLID, OH Dober Dan! By the time you read this we will have been to the Ohio/ Michigan State Convention in Detroit which 22 of our members attended, and we will have had our "Picnic” of the year. Prior to the good times we expect to have at these events, we have been confronted by a slew of bad news. It is with sincere regret 1 inform you that our member, a dedicated school teacher, Helen Levstek passed away; we also mourn Mary Maxim’s mother, Mrs. Derenda, Mary Budas’s nephew Peter Yenkovich, Jo Melle’s husband and her daughter, two weeks before, Wanda Golobic ’s husband Tony and Carol Traven’s nephew, Guy Zobec. Our deepest sympathy is extended to all the affected members and their families, and our thanks go to all our Cadets who paid their respects wherever possible. We send get well wishes to Pauline Siefert, Mamie Marin, Ann Hočevar, Vera Šebenik. Ann Strobe, Beatrice Tome, Mary Perusek, and Jean Tomšič. Some of us visited Jean at the Braeburn View Nursing Home on her birthday. Anne Tomsic made the occasion more official by bringing the traditional birthday cake. “58” was the magic number for celebrating anniversaries at the September 16th meeting. The happy couples were Frank and Ella Skoda, Frank and Vera Šebenik, and Marty and Beatrice Tome; also, as was previously announced, Adolph and Jane Somrack’s 5()th. Jane was honored by the traditional 50th ceremony at our last meeting where she received a corsage, and a beautiful cake. Dorothy Winter, her niece, took pictures. A "This is Your Life” expose took place. It was marvelous! Our visitors from out of town were Marge Bokar from Detroit, MI, Dolores Carey from Houston, TX and Christine Mishaga from Sun City, AZ. Thanks for returning. Another big “thank you” is due to all the members for the return of the raffle tickets. This was greatly appreciated. We are pleased to announce the winners. 1st) $100 to Barbara Zgonc, 2nd $50 to Jean Paik (Omaha, NE), 3rd $25 to Frances Kikel, congratulations! We had some travelers recently. Ann and Dorothy Witner had a wild time visiting Branson, MO and they arc to visit Sarino, Ont., Canada. Another group of money circulators Angie Shine, Mary Delost, Stella Koporc, Mary Sirna and husband, Ray, Helen Bonac, and Vida Gawenda went to Las Vegas. I hope they all returned richer and wiser. We had some first-time visitors to the "Old Country" (Europe). They were Emily Strunge, Barbara Zgonc, and Mary Klemcic. I also spent some time thereabouts in September by the way of a Mediterranean cruise. I hope to be able to show you the video during the November 16th meeting. Please attend. We will be discussing our Annual Christmas dinner then in addition to other pertinent matters. With humility we wish to make a correction to our previous issue. Josephine Petrovič donated $75 to our Scholarship Fund in memory of her dear husband, John instead of the $20 as was stated. That is quite a bit more — love and sacrifice to a worthy cause. Thanks again, Jo, for your generosity. The Plain Dealer printed a noteworthy editorial on Slovenia in September by Robert Gordon, a retired English Professor who visited Slovenia this summer and was quite impressed by the achievements resulting from its peaceful independence. Main excerpts from the article stated that the elected president of Slovenia is a long-time Communist now preaching reform; the prime minister is a Liberal Democrat; the foreign minister is a Christian Democrat; the finance minister is without a party. They are all experienced politically, but still cautiously charting their way. Before, you never had to worry. You got a job and you stayed with it. Now the young people finishing school have to look for jobs, for apartments, etc. Suddenly they have to choose for themselves, as we do. The birth rate is low, although the population is mainly Roman Catholic. The standard of living resembles that of Portugal or Ireland, with per capita (per person) income about $6,200 a year. And the factionalism (strife and war) exploding nearby is largely absent. However, at least 30,000 Bosnian refugees have found shelter in Slovenia which in itself is about the size of the state of New Jersey, our second smallest state. Nevertheless, Slovenia is a success story and will be as long as the newly dominant Italian right wing doesn’t press land claims. We all know our 1995 National SWU Convention will be held in San Francisco. We have decided to take a 1/2 page advertisement in the program book. Each member can become a name-listed patron for $5. More details during the November meeting and then some. Last, but not least, our big winner of the free dues for 1995 is Vida Gawenda. Some people have all the luck, and it’s good. As per "Izzy” one of my favorite cartoon characters, he sez “Have you ever noticed that the one who snores always falls asleep the quickest?” Na svidenje! VI MORAVCHEK NO. 52, KITZVILLE, MN We met for the first fall meeting on Sept. 7th with Vice-President, Julia Mancuso presiding. Pres. Rose Trombly was on vacation visiting relatives. Discussion on the forthcoming Regional Meeting Sept. I Ith was held and members urged to attend and support hostess branch 56 of Hibbing. Receiving some standing rules - tabled until the annual election in December. We will meet in November and in December at our annual Christmas party. No meetings in January, February and maybe, March, depending on the weather. Hostesses were Carmella Bonazza, Alice Baratto, Theresa Montcalm and Millie Barbato. Door prize. Marge An-drican. Cards, Julia Mancuso, Theresa Montcalm, Jennie Crea, Alice Baratto and Carmella Bonazza. Brief report on Minn. Zveza Day. Congratulations to host lodge. No. 56 and their committees for a job well done. Good attendance from all branches. National President, Tory Bo-bence represented the National Organization. Yes, many hours of planning go to having a successful convention. Br. 39 in Biwabik will host the 1995 meeting. Yours truly was the only one from Br. 52 to receive a prize! Lucky me! MILDRED BARBATO NO. 54, WARREN, OH I am finally getting back to normal after our most wonderful trip to Slovenia. It was a tour that couldn’t have been better. We booked it with Kollander Travel and Tony Klepec of Girard, Ohio and Bill Seles of Pittsburgh who were our tour guides. We flew to Munich, Germany, then by bus through Austria and into Slovenia. The mountains and the countryside were breathtaking! We were able to visit all of my husband’s relatives and mine. We ate more good food!... Apple strudel, potica, strukle, etc. and wines and slivovka! Needless to say, we gained some pounds! We visited all the famous places of Slovenia, Lake Bled, Portorož, Brezje, Postojna, etc. We visited our parent’s birthplaces and that was very sentimental and teary for us! We’ll cherish that trip forever. Joining us from Warren was Kay Sporich, Mayme’s daughter-in-law; Anne Savor’s daughter, Louise Vett of Poland, Ohio and the Gladd brothers and their wives. Oh, we had so much fun! Singing, dancing, we’re ready to go back! Vacationing in South Carolina is our president, Jo Kassan and daughter. Barb and husband, Ray. They’re with Jo’s son, Jim and family. Just back from New Jersey is Ann Savor and family. She’s 88 years young and loves to travel! Backfrom Michigan is Vic Zuga. Her sister and husband took her while her daughter stayed home and took care of Frank who needs much care and attention after having a severe stroke six years ago. It did Vic good to get away fora while. Also, she celebrated her 80th birthday in October, so we say, "God bless you and keep you well!” Our Christmas luncheon will be on Dec. 14th unless you hear otherwise. You'll be called for reservations. It will be at the Elks on Rt. 422. Hi to our good member, Helen Kohli who has been ailing! We love ya’, Helen! Happy Thanksgiving to all. JOANNE PONIKVAR NO. 55, GIRARD, OH November 1994 It seems like ages since I have written an article I hope that everyone had a relaxing summer. I vacationed with our branch president, Maria Selak and her family in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. We had a terrific time. Mark and Monica played for hours in the ocean and in our pool, which had a fantastic waterslide. And, Andrea, who kept calling you... My sister, Anka and I worked at our church festival at Our lady of Mount Carmel Church. By the end of the final day of festivities, we were ready to go home and soak our feet in water. My sister, Martha Rozman, sent her three oldest children to school this year. I can’t believe how big they are getting! On September 14, 1994, we held our meeting at the Girard Library. Eight members were in attendance. Anka Kregar gave us our branch financial report. We look good, ladies! However, we can always look better. Start thinking about next year’s bake sale. We do need more bakers. Just for your information, there are 27 adult members in our branch. It would be terrific if each member could sign up someone new in the coming year. The members voted to give the Girard Library a $25.00 donation since we do use the conference room for our meetings. We also voted to donate a children’s Bible for the St. Rose Arts and Crafts Show. Some of the news and activities of our members. Matilda Cigolle and her daughter Sr. Jean visited the Heritage House in Joliet, Illinois. They said it was beautiful. Joan Twaddle’s granddaughter, Sheree, visited her grandparents for one month this past summer. Joan and her husband took Sheree, to Washington D.C. where they sat in on some Senate Sessions. Our dear mother, Milka Kregar, has been busy all summer with her canning. Our father, Frank Kregar, is always busy in his workshop, inventing new toys and crafts for the grandchildren. Rose Juvancic’s son Richard, graduated as a nurse/anesthetist. He was awarded the Dominic Malta M.D. Memorial. Congratulations! Rose’s grandson, Steve Forde, was selected for Who’s Who in American High School students. My niece, Andrea Selak, got her driver’s license this summer. So — if any of our members travel on Route 422, watch out for Andrea... She also sprained her back while playing soccer at Ursuline High School. Maria took her to emergency to make sure no bones were broken. My godchild, Monica Selak, enrolled in the Warren Ballet Company where she proudly takes her ballet lessons every Saturday. She and my nephew Mark will also display their talents by being members of the St. Rose School Band. Monica will be playing trumpet and Mark will play the drums. (Maria, 1 know where you can buy some earplugs. Just kidding!) Belated October birthdays: Mark Selak and Monica Selak. November birthdays: Joan Twaddle, Mary Selak, Ivanka Selak and Katherine Sefcik. 1 wish all of our members and your families a Happy Thanksgiving! Nasvidenje, DORI KREGAR NO. 56, HIBBING, MN A special meeting in August was held in preparation for Minnesota Day which was held Sept. 11th hosted by our branch. For old business, Ann Satovich reported about the convention and we agreed to hold another meeting just before, on Sept. 6th, to finalize all plans. Birthdays for August were recognized; Elizabeth Spolar made a motion to publish birthdays in this column of ZARJA starting in January. No further business so meeting closed with prayer and the charter was draped for a deceased member, Emma Petrick. Lunch committee for Sept. was Mary Sickich, Jen Obert and Pep Erickson. Winner of cards and bunko: Jennie Sator, Rose Maras, Mary Micheletti. Sincerely submitted by, EDITH JONES NO. 57, NILES, OH On Aug. 9th we met at the Shepherd Home for lunch with 16 members present. After a very nice lunch we opened our meeting with a prayer led by president, Frances Yerman. Minutes were read and approved as were our secretary’s and treasurer’s reports. We haven’t had much news to report lately as it seems everyone has been busy with their families, but now, we have a few members that are doing some traveling. Julia Sherlock went to Cleveland to be with her sons and their families. Helen Misel was with relatives in Reno and Ann Gunther had a visit to Seattle, Washington with her granddaughter and family; as for me, I had my sister and brother-in-law visiting us from Charlotte, No. Carolina and we had a very nice family gathering before they went back home. A CRAFTY IDEA! If this is November, December will be here all too soon. Time to get started on Christmas projects. Thanks to Julie Klotz (No. 73 member from South Carolina) 1 have a delightful pattern for crocheted angel ornaments. They are done in pastel colors and are certain to please the “special” people you like to remember. You can have the pattern for $1.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope (Checks payable to ZARJA). TO ALL OUR CRAFTERS: The 1995 National Convention Committee in San Francisco will gladly accept your craft projects. 1 do hope you will contribute an item for their sale/benefit. 1 will gladly forward them for you. Requests for the Angel Pattern, or items for the 1995 Convention, can be mailed to: Evelyn A. Majercik 31 Ehired Avenue, Bedford, OH 44146 We have had a few members celebrating their birthdays. Ann Pease celebrated her birthday in July; and in August, it was the birthday of Denise Bahn. Hostesses for August were Julia Yakop and Mary Opalka, both our elderly members and still very active. Hostesses for Sept. were Ann Gunther and Catherine Graffius. Take care and looking forward to seeing you next month. FRANCES STANEC NO. 67, BESSEMER, FA No meeting since April, 1993 which was a nice turn-out. Ladies, our lodge is getting small with no new members added and we lost three members who dropped out, which leaves us with a total of 32 members. Ladies, when I send you cards telling you about the payment of dues, 1 hope you will understand that 1 am doing my duty for the good of the lodge and trying to keep it together. Where else can you go to meet old and new friends you have not seen for a long time. Life is too short - so please think about it. Ljubi Vlah was in and out of the hospital - also her husband, John. Our best wishes to them for speedy recovery. Ann Mravlik and Katie Herbolich are our elderly members, at 91 years of age, and we send wishes for God’s blessing and good health to both of them. We also have another member, Mary Slavich who is 98 years old and in a nursing home. God be with her. We extend our prayers and condolences to the family of our member, Ann Kinkela whose brother John Shuluge died in May. Ann Stanish’s husband, Ernest died in May after an extended illness. Ann and Ernest, who was a Marine during WW II, married in 1937 and their two daughters are Phyllis Henderson of Indiana, Julie Di-lullo of Bessemer; they also have 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Ernest’s sister, Ljubi Vlah also survives. Dorothy Charniga’s husband, Paul, died in July. Dorothy (Brodesko) and Paul were married in 1955 and have one son and two daughters, Sheryn Pakalnis and Cindy Wollet. Two sisters, Helen Malta and Julia Schott also survive as well as four grandchildren. A son, Paul D., preceded him in death. Our sincere condolences to all. Visit the sick and/or send a card. Bless everyone. Will try to have a meeting for Christmas. MARY PERCIC NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH When I recently checked my calendar for an appointment date, I quickly took it off the wall and rechecked the pages I had already turned over — is it possible? Is it true? This is October! Where has the time gone? A recent trip through a mountain area revealed a trace of leaves changing color. Yeah, I guess it is October. Branch No. 73 has resumed its meetings, the same as everyone else. We were pleased with the attendance in September, hopefully we will see many more of you throughout the coming months. GET WELL WISHES: Vera Kozak recently underwent serious surgery, we pray that she mends well. Virginia Nemeth has been ill with various ailments that cause her no end of problems. Benny Dodyk (husband of V.P. Helen) had a hip replacement and spent time in rehabilitation. I was happy to have a few spare minutes to visit him. Margarita Franchini’s son was involved in a motorcycle accident; we wish him a swift/complete recovery. "Them bones, them bones — them d— bones”. Ginny Fortuna suffered a broken wrist when she missed a step (they say the last step is a wow!!). But let’s see who can top this — Our son, Jerry hobbled around on crutches for two weeks, his problem is yet to be resolved, the same weekend he saw the doctor, our two daughter-in-laws, Lisa and Janet, both missed that last step, both sustained ankle injuries. Luckily, Janet was able to protect her small son as she fell. It all could have been much worse. Julie Klotz (S. Carolina) underwent eye surgery. She probably had to lay aside her crafts for awhile. 1 ler granddaughter, Tracy Epley, flew to grandma’s house, all by herself. A big event for the little girl. Hope grandma feels better, and that Tracy had a good time. Joanne French traveled to Alaska with her husband. They spent a month touring and enjoying the vacation. Our new grandma’s award goes to Mary Ann Pikus, but she didn’t supply us with any photo or information. Can we get a new member with this birth? Three of our members were generous enough to send donations to our branch. So, to Kathleen Pope (Cimperman), Ann Fike and Rose Perko, thank you. Marge Munley (Venice, Florida) was in town for a family wedding. Sorry I missed your visit, Marge, maybe we'll make up for it at your new home. CONDOLENCES: So many deaths have occurred in our circle of Slovene friends and acquaintances, I hesitate to extend our sympathy to each individual or family. We want you to know that each and everyone of you, and your family, are remembered in our prayers. We learn that life does go on, the void is always there but our faith secs us through. THANKSGIVING GREETINGS to all of you. God gives us this time to count our blessings, make good use of it. Respectfully submitted, EVELYN A. MAJERCIK NO. 81, KEEWATIN, MN A meeting was held on Aug. 24th with President Kapla leading the prayer; our deceased were especially remembered. Communications were read relating to an invitation by Br. 56 of Hibbing to the annual Minn. State Day on Sept. 11th. Transportation was to be provided by those members who attended and raffle tickets were purchased. Tentative plans were made for an apple strudel project for the annual St. Mary's Fall Bazaar. A special meeting was to follow. Long time member, Clem Bolf has established residency at the Lee Apts, in Hibbing. She will be missed. Meeting adjourned fora social time. TONI D. NO. 85, I)E PUE, IE Br. 85 held two meetings recently. The first was on Aug. 16th with lunch at the Ranch I louse followed by a meeting at the home of our president, Gen Grilc. We agreed to help Oglesby with a monetary donation since we were unable to help physically. Our second meeting was on Sept. 21st at the home of Mary Kuhar. Both served delicious desserts. I was elected to be the delegate for the State and National conventions. Our family had quite a shock in Sept. when we found out my sister, Ann De-Bord had to have a double by-pass heart surgery. She had her surgery then on Sept. 7th at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rockford. 1 am happy to report that she is doing well. All of our prayers and novenas were answered. 1 heard a piece of good news today that our long-time member, Connie Benkse, who has been very ill in Peoria, is doing really well and feeling much better. Her husband, Frank has also been in the hospital and is supposed to come home. More prayers were answered. We have a couple of Do Pue boys doing well at the University of Illinois. Mike Suarez, grandson of Mary Suarez, plays on the U. of I. football team. Christian Bryant, grandson of Caroline Widmar, is a third year cheerleader at the U. of 1. where for two years the 111 ini squad has competed in the National Collegiate Cheerleading Championships seen on ESPN. Despite their busy schedules, both of these young men do very well in their studies. 1 also have to mention that my nephew and grandson of Ann De Bord made the basketball team in Jr. High School. We had our polka mass by the Joliet Polka Masters on Sept. 25th. My cousin, Joe Sterle sponsored them and my cousins and some friends from Joliet attended. We had a dinner after the mass and it was so good visiting with everyone. We were only sorry my sister and family were unable to attend. The Polka Masters are a wonderful group and we certainly enjoyed them. Fall is upon us and we are hoping to have a nice Indian Summer. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. God bless. MARY JERMENC NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL What a good time we had when our members got together after the long, hot summer! Prayers, Minutes and officer reports were dispensed with before the meeting tackled the big agenda of the day, discussion of our annual fund-raiser. This will again be handled by Ann Yosue, Helen Santy and Frances Ben-kovich who do such a fabulous job. Please be generous as this is the main way to swell our treasury. Millie James was selected as delegate to the State Convention in October. Meeting hostesses were officers, Millie James, Dolores Hennelly, Marge Krmpotic, Fran Benkovich and Ann Yosue and they presented a lovely spread. My only news on vacations was that Olga and John Krmpotic took a trip around the lakes and stopped to visit the Baraga Memorial Grounds in Michigan. Let me know, ladies, what is going on with you! Our Christmas party is set for Dec. 3rd at noon...where?... we’ll let you know. Chairladies are Manda Dosen and Mary B. Perkovich, our stalwarts. Still on the sick list are Lu Galdina and Millie Cuzella. Lottie Brkljacic is slowly recovering following her surgery. My Kuma, Lucy Kopilash had a freak accident which caused a broken hip. Replacement of that hip was then done and Lucy says that it is a slow process but she feels better every day. Husband, John is a big help! Last meeting my family and 1 were in Hollywood, Fla. paying our last respects to my father-in-law, Stephen Maras who died at the age of 97. Our “Tata” was the best! God rest his soul. Hostesses for October were Marge O'Connor, Mary Toporis, Fran Benkovich, Helen Santy and Marge Nik-sich. I’ll be on the high seas with my daughters but my thoughts will be with you - maybe! MARIE MARAS NO. 10», FONTANA, CA Greetings from Southern California! We haven’t fallen into the ocean, nor have we been disabled by the shakers, but a lot has happened since we reported to you. Our reporter, Linda Costell and her mother, Chris, moved to Sun Lakes, CA and have not been able to attend many of our meetings. Henrietta Bledsoe moved to Napa, CA and new Carol I larley and her mother, Dorothy Petrich moved toGardenerville, Nevada. What an exodus! We miss all of you. We lost two dear members this last winter. Ann Arledge, our former secretary died in December. Ann was a dear friend of mine and 1 really miss her. Stephanie Majcen, a fifty-plus year member died in March and another former secretary, Mary Omaits died this past June. This is a great loss to our branch. May they rest in peace. On the brighter side, we celebrated the 90th birthday of our sister, Mary Glad at a lovely party hosted by her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Lou and Frank Vidergar. We are privileged to have her continue attending our meetings and hope she can for many more years. Mrs. Glad is a charter member of Branch 100. and has been a constant, staunch supporter of our branch. We attended the Candlelight Dinner Theater for our Christmas party which was wonderful. Our Palačinka Brunch was held and our Communion Brunch was well attended. We miss member attendance at our monthly meetings. Saturday salad luncheon meetings seem to lure more ladies. I hope we can continue this trend. I would like to congratulate Mayme Pahule of Branch 38, Chisholm, MN on her 64 years of membership in SWU. What a sweet lady! I faithfully read the Branch 38 columns and keep up on my home town activities. We are looking forward to the SWU Convention to be held in San Francisco in 1995. Best wishes to all from Fontana, CA. Sincerely, ROSEMARY MLAKAR NO. 102, WILLARI), WI Greetings from the Northland! My goodness! The geese are all Hying south in large Hocks! Could it be that winter is on their tails? Our nice, warm weather has turned very soggy and rather cool, typical fall weather here, but we do look forward to our Indian Summer ahead. You can believe this area was buzzing with activity in preparation for the S.W.U. State Convention in October. We prayed for a nice and sunny day so that you travelers could enjoy your trip. Baraga Days have come and gone. This year they were held in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the first time they were ever held in Canada. There were 5 people in the delegation from Willard who attended this inspiring weekend of activities. Ed and Josephine Bayuk joined Msgr. Matthew Malnar, my husband and myself. Hopefully, next year, there will be even more from our area since Baraga Days will be held in Es-canaba, Wisconsin, as always, over the Labor Day weekend. This is an easy one day drive from here. We have now made the acquaintance of Archbishop Aloysius Ambrožič who is a nephew of our twice-pastor here in Willard, Fr. Bernard Ambrožič. He taught us many of the beautiful Slovenian hymns we still sing in our church and community. He will never be forgotten. A number of our ladies, in Slovenian costume, came from Sudbury and To- ronto, Canada also from Cleveland and a couple from Willard (who could that be?) to make the Baraga Days event more festive. This group formed the procession preceding the clergy into the Cathedral of the Precious Blood at Sault Ste. Marie. Several of us also participated in the Gift Presentation. Archbishop Ambrožič was the main celebrant at the all-Slovenian Mass with a number of visiting clergy con-celebrating; this include Msgr. Malnar from the Willard area, Fr. Joseph Gole from Milwaukee and Franciscan Father, Vendelin Spendov from Lem-ont who majestically played the organ so the whole congregation could join in singing those old Slovenian hymns. One cannot describe the beauty of such a celebration. You must join them! Sunday afternoon, Sept. 25th, a large number of Willard folks and many of their friends and relatives attended the dedication of a beautiful outdoor grotto, dedicated to the Sacred Heart, at the home of our good friend, Msgr. Malnar, in Independence, WI. This is about 70 miles southwest of Willard. How fortunate we all were to have the sun shine all afternoon. Monsignor prayed hard for this, as it had rained for days before and it also rained hard all the way home! Msgr. Malnar grew up in the Willard area and was the celebrant at the State Convention Mass at Holy Family church on Oct. 2nd. Our prayers and good wishes to all our shut-ins, either at home or in the hospital. More news next month. MARY STAUT NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C. On September 11, 1994, we convened for the first meeting of the fall/ winter season. As always, it was nice to visit once again with our Slovenian friends after the long, hot summer. For the past few weeks, we have been blessed with the most beautiful weather here in the Washington, D.C. area. The temperature hovered in the upper 70’s, and the air was so clear with no humidity — what a treat! President Sabina Bartol opened the meeting by leading us in prayer and her opening comments. The discussion revolved mainly around the various projects anticipated for the coming months. We were all pleased that Sabina Bartol and Mary Mejac could join us for this meeting. They both suffered health problems recently and are now recovering very nicely — I’m sure our prayers were helpful. Some other noteworthy events are: Agnes Javornik is now facing another knee surgery. Please remember her in your prayers so this ordeal will lead to a very speedy recovery. Freda Michel itch celebrated her birthday on September 7, an we sang the “happy birthday" song for her in both the English and Slovenian versions. She was, as usual, very appreciative of our best wishes. Our charter member, Ivanka Antolin celebrated her birthday on June 6; Mara Chokel and her husband celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on September 10. Our sincere congratulations to all the celebrants, and may those with health problems continue to improve. The big event, of course, occurred on August 27 which was the wedding of charter member, Bernadette Kovacic and Timothy Fitzsimmons, who are now enjoying a vacation in Slovenia and other areas of Europe. Once again, we wish them much happiness in their life together. Details of the wedding are submitted in a separate article in this issue of the ZARJA. Best wishes to all from members of Branch 103. We are looking forward to the upcoming convention in San Francisco. MATILDA AUSICH NO. 105, DETROIT, MI September is now upon us and since we have not had any meetings since June I would like to give you an overview of our previous activities and our upcoming ones. Our last meeting was held on June 16 at Council Park in Warren, MI. We combined our Annual Picnic with SNPJ Circle 58. This is usually our most popular and well-attended activity, however this year we had to contend with mother nature’s wrath. It was 95 + degrees and even though we were under a pavilion it was hot!!! We BBQ hot dogs and guess what? It got hotter!!! The brave members that did attend had a good time. We’ll try again next year. FYI: 2 years before we were picnicking in the same area shivering and drinking hot cocoa and coffee because the tem- About The Author Bob Dicke’s career has centered around college level education at the Univerity of Wiscon-sin-Madison. He was known as a popular professor of entymol-ogy. Presently, he is retired and enjoys the status of Emeritus Professor of Entomology. Bob also enjoys outdoor life at the family’s cabin in Ladysmith, Wisconsin and has planted thousands of trees on the property. With this lovely verse, it is evident that he has unveiled still another talent, that of poet. We look forward to many other poems in the future. Members will probably recognize that Bob Dicke is the husband of Hermine Dicke, ZARJA columnist and editor of the POTS and PANS Cookbook. On numerous occasions, Hermine has mentioned that Bob is the “official taster" of the many recipes that are sent to her for the cookbook and column. We are indeed grateful to him for his “selfless devotion to new recipes.” He has been living proof through the years that Slovenian cooks are the best and their spouses are the happiest! Irene M. Odorizzi Heritage Director POETRY CORNER Irene M. Odorizzi, Heritage Director perature was near 50 degrees. That’s Michigan for you! Get well wishes are extended to Anne Klančnik, Evelyn Sunich, Mary Jamsek, Marie Dye, and any other members who may be ailing that we missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Enjoy these last days of summer and I'll see you soon. KATHLEEN M. EMERSON President An Ode to the Dandelion by Robert Dicke No less a harbinger of spring this first of a May day, Than the robin seeking angleworks emerging from a wet soil, Or the V-column of a returning gaggle of honking geese, Or the dandelion, the first dash of color from a long dead earth. Never cultivated, unplated, seldom noted and never heralded But somebody should - This splash of burnished, freshly minted gold that only a fool would pass by. Why is this beauty uprooted or poisoned to make room for the uniform monotony of green grass? Must we stifle the fruition of these bright florets to the silky white plumes That seek a spring breeze that wafts their seed to another growing place, There to germinate and further enrich the coffers of Mother Earth with its bullion of treasure so unstintingly given. Few plants can probe the earth so deeply for its moisture and nutrition, Or withstand the ravishes of man’s spade or spray And yet give so unstintingly of its beauty, or even its greens For a tasty salad that requires no weeding or fertilization, or its flowers for a sweet and tasty brew. I, for, one, can cherish this treasure and deplore The thoughtless destruction of this noble and sensual DANDELION BISHOP BARAGA DAYS IN SAULT STE. MARIE, 1994 Our members attended the annual Baraga Days over the Labor Day weekend held in Sault Ste. Marie, Canada. The Slovenian liturgy on Saturday night was celebrated by Archbishop Aloysius Ambrožič of Toronto seen here with concelebrants, Fr. Oberto, President of the BBA and Fr. Jošt Martelanc, representing the Archbishop of Ljubljana, Dr. Aloysius Šuštar. At the altar were visiting clergy from the U.S. and Slovenia. Photos by Vitko Stout Gilbert, Minnesota - I would like to share a few thoughts with you about Bishop Baraga, written for this occasion by Fr. Stanley Dolšina of the Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota. Perhaps the best of all biographies written of Bishop Baraga to date is the book of Dr. Franc Jaklič. The title he chose to give to this work was simply: BARAGA. (The original, in Slovenian, is in our Slovenian section in monthly installments.) This single word is known to many on the side of the Atlantic ocean. Many places and institutions bear this name, in the Michigan Upper Peninsula, a few in Wisconsin, still fewer in Minnesota. The three outstanding locations closely connected with the activity of this noble missionary are: Fond du Lac, Cross River on the North Shore of Lake Superior and Grand Portage on the same shore. Many are familiar with Baraga Cross at the mouth of Cross River and the miraculous story behind it. Early in 1900 Slovenian seminarians in St. Paul, Minnesota were organized in the so-called “Društvo Baraga”. This rather impressive group influenced the then Bishop of the Diocese of Duluth, Thomas Welch, to erect a permanent cross at the site where Fr. Baraga and his companion were saved on the shores during a ferocious storm. Dr. Franc Jaklič, in his BARAGA book, narrates an experience the missionary had in the village of Fond du Lac with an Indian woman the night before she died, consoled with the Sacraments and lovingly administered by the man of God. Baraga’s fame reached the City of Duluth. The priests and laity heard about this exceptional man. Besides Bishop Welch another outstanding clergyman of the Diocese was young Fr. William Larkin, the first non-Slovenian pastor of the parish which included the territory of Fond du Lac. He considered Fr. Baraga important enough to incorporate his image and name into the stained glass windows of the new church he built in 1959. At the same time he included other outstanding personalities from Europe; two Cardinals: Mindtzenty and Stepinac. All three are seen at the entrance of the new church. Fr. Stanley Dolšina succeeded Fr. Larkin. He, too was aware of the obligation to promote the Cause of Bishop Baraga. The first plan was to erect a memorial plaque 011 Highway 23 by the bridge crossing the St. Louis River. This plan did not come into existence. Shortly after his retirement Fr. Stanley recalled his unfinished business and wishing to pay his debt to Bishop Baraga, he contacted the St. Louis Historical Society. After some delay, he obtained a reply from the Society suggesting that a more effective way to remember Bishop Baraga would be a TRAVELING EXHIBIT. It would acquaint both the Slovenian and non-Slovenian population with all the greatness of the missionary. The Society then offered to take care of the historical side, while the Catholic church will take care of the religious significance of the project. Once the initial stage of the project is complete the Exhibit will travel from the City hall in Duluth to the schools and parishes, to the people and places who would consider to increase their knowledge of historical, cultural and religious significance of Bishop Friderick Baraga. II' all goes well, the first step of this project will be made in the Fall of 1995. At the moment we are gripping with the financial problems which are not small. Alter contacting the Slovenian National Organizations: The KSKJ, the Slov. Women’s Union, the KC's as well as the contributions from individuals, we hope to succeed. In this way, we do have high hopes to tell the Native Americans, the Catholics and non-Catholics alike of the grandeur of the Missionary whom they called: “THE FATHER OF THE INDIAN CULTURE”, mostly because of the famous Dictionary and Grammar of the Chippewa language, which is considered priceless. The two original copies are under the key in the Library of Congress 111 Washington, D.C. The ever-burning desire on the side of the Church to have Bishop Baraga proclaimed a Saint will be increased at home and abroad. It seems that the Lord is delaying this favor to our Nation until we gel to know the Man and continue to follow closely his teachings and his example. Fr. Stanley Dolšina who shared the above thoughts and plans with us suffered a heart attack only two weeks before we went to Sault Ste. Marie in September. Although his health has improved, we kindly ask you all to remember him in your prayers, also and ask Bishop Baraga to intercede for him that this project will soon become a reality. We, in Minnesota, especially here in the Diocese of Duluth, would not like to stay behind those who have so diligently worked for the Cause of Bishop Baraga. Perhaps it does not seem very much, but certainly is the most what we can do at this time. Hopefully there will be more when the time is ripe! The days spent at Sault Ste. Marie in September were very beautiful and inspiring in every way. Meeting so many friends from near and far was again uplifting. The group SIX MONTHS’ OF BRANCH ASSESSMENTS January 1 to June 30,1994 Branch Amount Adult JuniorSocial 1. Sheboygan, Wl $ 593.75 no 12 5 2. Chicago, IL 2,317.30 262 160 41 3. Pueblo, CO 938.90 175 14 13 5. Indianapolis, IN 303.60 63 14 6 6. Barberton, OH 238.10 24 I 3 7. Forest City, PA 199.20 19 0 0 8. Steelton, PA 13.50 5 0 0 10. Cleveland, OH 919.35 151 7 26 12. Milwaukee, WI 433.35 74 2 19 13. San Francisco, CA 654.20 81 8 11 14. Euclid, OH 1,113.00 184 17 16 16. South Chicago, IL 656.75 104 27 17 17. West Allis, WI 369.40 107 27 0 19. Eveleth, MN 197.10 42 0 2 20. Joliet, IL 3,281.70 536 96 53 22. Bradley, IL 67.50 12 0 4 23. Ely, MN 795.55 149 9 18 24. LaSalle, IL 367.20 73 8 2 25. Cleveland, OH 1,222.20 245 10 16 26. Pittsburgh, PA 441.70 72 1 0 27. North Braddock, PA 86.40 9 0 0 28. Calumet, MI 125.20 33 2 0 30. Home Office 1,229.20 116 1 33 32. Euclid, OH 956.95 134 9 16 33. Duluth, MN 798.50 144 16 9 34. Tower-Soudan, MN 465.40 57 20 8 35. Aurora, MN 545.40 71 44 17 37. Greaney, MN - 5 0 0 38. Chisholm, MN 334.80 59 4 8 39. Biwabik, MN 326.15 61 9 12 40. Lorain, OH 316.50 58 2 5 42. Maple Heights, OH 466.35 82 12 9 43. Milwaukee, WI 884.10 156 16 11 45. Portland, OR — 23 2 3 46. St. Louis, MO 72.00 13 0 0 47. Garfield Hts., OH 437.80 82 14 2 50. Cleveland, OH 1,924.90 328 28 56 from Slovenia brought even more to the festivities. We hope and pray they, too, had a very wonderful trip traveling through the Land of Bishop Baraga and were able to carry back most wonderful memories, mostly realizing the knowledge of how many sacrifices this man did with the distances and primitive living, close to 200 years ago. Our group from Minnesota also represented the Federation of Minnesota KSKJ Lodges and were able to give a donation, along with some personal ones for the Cause of Bishop Baraga. To the people fo the “SOO" and especially the Rovanšek family, our deep gratitude and thanks. God bless you all! Anne Tushar Member of Br. 39 Gilbert, Minnesota 52. Kitzville, MN 148.40 24 0 2 54. Warren, OH 107.70 23 0 1 55. Girard, OH 265.65 27 7 0 56. Hibbing, MN 151.25 36 1 2 57. Niles, OH 131.55 31 2 0 59. Burgettstown, PA 168.35 24 0 0 63. Denver, CO 159.90 22 0 0 64. Kansas City, KS 36.60 12 0 0 66. Canon City, CO 168.70 32 0 0 67. Bessemer, PA 161.80 34 0 0 68. Fairport Harbor, OH 221.55 39 2 0 71. Strabane, PA 68 10 1 73. Warrensville Hts., OH 476.35 99 33 4 74. Ambridge, PA 158.00 18 0 0 79. Enumclaw, WA 330.40 44 3 5 81. Keewatin, MN 175.80 17 0 4 83. Crosby, MN 27.60 4 0 0 85. DePue, IL 82.75 17 0 0 86. Nashwauk, MN — 4 0 0 88. Johnstown, PA 61.20 11 0 0 89. Oglesby, IL 119.70 28 0 0 90. Bridgeville, PA 42.00 9 0 0 91. Oakmont, PA 183.30 42 0 0 92. Crested Butte, CO 77.40 11 0 1 93. Brooklyn, NY 66.60 21 0 0 95. South Chicago, IL 629.30 104 1 8 97. Cairnbrook, PA 35.10 6 0 0 99. Elmhurst, IL 7.20 2 0 0 100. Fontana, CA 303.90 46 3 14 101. Bedford Hts., OH 154.00 22 4 4 102. Willard, WI 92.45 38 5 4 103. Washington, DC 307.50 49 0 1 105. Detroit, Ml 292.90 48 7 6 106. Meadowlands, PA 115.20 15 0 0 108. Virginia Beach, VA 17.00 10 6 0 TOTALS $29,570.10 4956 676 498 Olga Ancel, Nat'I Secretary Reprinted by permission of National Catholic Reporter Publishing Co., P.O. Box419281, Kansas City, MO 64141 Little Slovenia at big cultural crossroads by Fr. Robert F. Drinan NATIONAL CATHOLIC REPORTER, July 1, 1994 I was both exhilarated and apprehensive as I flew out of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, after some days of lecturing and preaching in that new country, which broke off from Yugoslavia in 1991. I gave the first John F. Kennedy Lecture at the University of Ljubljana on the occasion of the May 29th birthday of the slain president. The recent death of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis made the occasion more memorable and melancholy. I spoke at a university started by the Jesuits in 1619 and conducted by them until Rome ordered the dissolution of the Jesuit order in 1773. History tends to overwhelm a visitor to this tiny nation bordering on Austria and Italy which, after belonging to Austria for decades, was seized by the Nazis and then became one of the six republics that made up Tito’s Yugoslavia. But the language, the culture, and the deep Roman Catholic faith of the Slovenes remained unshakable. In the three years since Slovenia obtained its nationhood, the Catholic Church has seen a surge of faith and self-confidence. For the first time since 1941. Catholics are not afraid to profess their faith; the fear of being excluded from public office or other opportunities is gone. But a large number remain as committed socialists, opposed to almost all privatization of industry. I spoke and concelebrated Mass at a prestigious Catholic high school that reopened last year after being closed since 1941 when the Nazis seized the school and turned it into an army barracks. The scientific equipment, the faculty, and the Catholic atmosphere of that secondary school was impressive. The lay teachers applauded when I urged the students to contemplate a vocation to the religious life. I cited the long history of the Cistercians, the Ursulines and, of course, the Jesuits in Slovenia. The students, dressed in America-style jeans and speaking amazingly good English, seemed to welcome a call, which they probably did not expect from a visiting American. The three dioceses of Slovenia operate a seminary with 80 students and have quiet hopes that the political rebirth of Slovenia will bring a rebirth of the church, which through the centuries in Slovenia has had more than its share of martyrs and saints. m. CZECHOSLOVAKIA AUSTRIA f Ljugjana^ HUNGARY AUSTRIA Ljubljana SLOVENIA Zagreb CROATIA BOSNIA LOVENIAJ \ ,0\ Zagreb CROATIA Old Yugoslavia border I \ SERBIA BOSNIA and HERZEGOVINA Zadar / • Sarafavo YUGOSLAVIA MONTENEGRO ITALY Im Adriatic Sea x S. s A L ? a * A MACEDONIA But church leaders see the realities of what communism and secularism have done to the strong, traditional Catholicism of the Slovene people. There are now more abortions than live births. The new constitution, after a great struggle over abortion, states “persons shall be free to decide whether to bear children.” The government is also required by the constitution to create the conditions necessary to “enable parents to freely choose whether or not to bear children.” The constitution does, however, outlaw the death penalty. The new Slovenia still requires that marriage be performed by a civic authority. Although “the state and religious groups shall be separate,” all religious groups “shall be guaranteed freedom of activity.” The constitution seems to be silent on tax exemption for church-related entities. At the magnificent school where I lectured, teachers’ salaries are paid by the government. The right to divorce, implicit in the new constitution, seems to be exercised in Slovenia with numbers comparable to nations in Western Europe. The problems of the church in Slovenia are comparable to those in the other newly liberated nations of Eastern Europe. But the problems in Slovenia seem even more com- REMEMBERING FROM 50 YEARS AGO... Nurse’s Aid Volunteers The object of taking a Nurse’s Aid course for girls in the 1940’s was to meet emergency needs in hospitals especially if there was a shortage of nurses in health organizations, and in war-time conditions, to attend to patients in field units. What a very serious and important training it was! Those of us who remember those days, are wondering who among our members was also a Nurse’s Aid? The three of us pictured here were volunteers at St. Joseph’s hospital, formerly on No. Broadway in Joliet. Isabelle and Bertha volunteered (no pay!) their time after work in the evening or on Sundays, and I helped out during the day. It's interesting to look back now and recall the feelings we had, thinking that a life of service was really, very worthwhile. It built a great sense of responsibility in all of us. The following is a paragraph that we were expected to follow as our “ethic” for conduct as a Nurse’s Aid. Do you think that now, fifty years later, any of it is still valid? Or have we become too modern? Olga A nee I Nurse’s Aid Ethic: It is expected the Volunteer Nurses’ Aide will conduct herself as a cultured woman at all times. They will not forget to show proper respect to all superiors on the floor or wherever you may meet them. They will rise when a doctor, a sister or a supervisor enters the room or addresses her. Nurses’ Aide will show unfailing courtesy to all doctors at all times. Nurses’ aide may not visit with patients in the hospital while wearing her uniform, unless permission is received from supervisor. Always address each other as "Miss” or "Mrs.” According to Isabelle Musich Gulas, this picture appeared on the cover of ZARJA over 50 years ago! Isabelle is at the left. She says she enjoyed the experience very much, and in agreement with her are Bertha Planinšek Hofer, and Olga Erjavec Ancel, right. Currently, Bertha is the Mayor of Shorewood Village, Illinois. All three are moms and grandmas and long-time members of Br. 20. plicated because this new nation with only one-third the territory of Switzerland and one-third of Switzerland’s population seems vulnerable to attack by other Balkan nations or to a communist retaking of the government. Some in Slovenia openly state that things were better under the communists and that the new coalition government has few friends in the Balkans and little to sell to the West. Slovenes with a wide variety of socialist leanings are not pleased with the explosion of the market economy, the growth of personal fortunes or the introduction of a stock market. Some communists and some Catholics (who quote the papal encyclicals on the social order) agree that the capitalism emerging in Slovenia is irreconciliable with fairness to both rich and poor. The constitution itself is ambivalent on this question, since it denies the possibility of ownership of property to foreign persons or corporations. Multinational corporations are reluctant to invest in a country with this type of restriction. I met with the drafters of the constitution, members of the 90-person parliament and judges who now have life tenure. The ideological consensus among the political leaders would seem to be frail. But their determination to make their experiment work is granite. Slovenes have suffered too much for too many centuries to squander the unique opportunity present at this shining moment in history. Slovenia now has membership in the United Nations and in the Council of Europe. It has political institutions that merit the worldwide praise they are receiving. But Slovenia, the smallest of the 22 post-communist countries, has such limited resources that one wonders whether it can survive without being linked to the five other nations in the former Yugoslavia. But the people of Slovenia are determined to seize their moment of destiny. The prayers of the faithful written by the ninth-graders at the Diocesan Classical High School where I spoke were moving in the aspirations they expressed for themselves and for their country. Meeting them and the faith-filled people of Slovenia will rank as one of the greatest spiritual experiences I have had in a long time. • LETNA DRŽAVNA KONVENCIJA V MINNESOTI ŠT. 39, BIWABIK, MN Ko prične v Minnesoti rumeneti listje v jeseni na začetku meseca septembra je znak da se tedaj obhaja letna državna konvencija za našo Žensko Zvezo. Letos je bila na Hibbingu 11. septembra v St. Leo’s church. Pričetek je bil ob 10.00 uri dopoldan. Navzočih je bilo 136 članic in gostov. Glavna predsednica za Minnesoto, Jean Korsman je ves program spretno vodila. Poleg nje je bila navzoča tudi glavna predsednica Ženske Zveze: Tory Bobence. Sledil je pozdrav Ann Satovich v imenu podružnice na Hibbingu. Ann Oražem pa je vse navzoče povedla v molitev in prošnjo k Bogu za uspešen dan tega dne, za pomoč in blagoslov našega dela. Anna Rose Smolich dolgoletna članica pod. #35 na Au-rori je spremljala petje na klavirju, dirigirala pa je Anna Hodnik, od iste podružnice in sicer pesmi: “Naša skupna vez” in "Angeljsko Češ-čenje” Gl. preds. Jean Korsman je nato pozdravila vse navzoče. Se zahvalila vsem v pod. na Hibbingu za vse dolge ure pripravljanja,za to 37. redno državno konvencijo. Posebno je izrekla zahvalo voditeljici Ann Satovich, preds. Valeriji Carlson, tajnici Mary Micheletti in voditeljici programa Liz Spolar, ki je prevzela ves levji delež tega dne. Nato je tajnica in blagajničarka za vse MN. podružnice podala svoje poročilo, ki je bilo sprejeto velikodušno. Sledila so poročila vseh okrajnih podružnic: Eveleth/Virginia #19, Ely #23, Duluth #33, Tower-Soudan #34, Aurora #35, Chisholm #38, Biwabik #39 in Hibbing #56. Podružnici v Keewatin in Crosby nimajo sestankov. Nekatere so dodale v svojem poročilu tudi tiste članice, ki so bile v tem letu počaščene kot: “Mati leta." Druge spet o njih delu in načrte za bodoče akcije. Na agendi je bila potem debata o “direktnem plačevanju" ases-menta, kar je prineslo v malo razrešitev nekaj idej. Predvsem to; da so se vse navzoče intimno sporazumele, da namreč vsaka članica plača svoj letni prispevek enkrat v letu točno, ne da bi morale tajnice prositi in jim pošiljati opozorila, kar vzame čas in nepot- rebne stroške. Sledilo je poročilo iz Gl. urada o veliki potrebi za nove mladinske člane. Priložena je bila tudi grafična lista, oz. seznam tega in v kaki potrebi smo, da ostane naša organizacija na višku. K temu sodelovanju so pozvane prav vse članice, da pridobe nove člane kar najprej pri svojih družinah. Prihodnja generalna konvencija se bo vršila meseca maja 1995 v San Francisco. Debata se je o tem vršila in pozvala vse, da izberejo kar najbolj delavne delegatinje, ki bodo zastopale svoje podružnice. V ta namen bo preds. Jean Korsman vodila nekaj potrebnih sestankov v bližnji bodočnosti. Kratko je potem spregovorila še gl. preds. Ženske Zveze, Tory Bobence in poudarila obligacije vsake delegatinje za generalno konvencijo. Omenila prodajo kuharskih knjig, ki so še vedno na razpolago. Povabila spet vse, da bi pri svojih vnukinjah pogledale še za nove člane, ki so tako zelo potrebni in važni za nadaljni obstoj Ženske Zveze. Pohvalila je tudi Minnesotsko delegacijo pri urejevanju knjig, ki so vedno v redu in stremijo za splošen napredek organizacije. “Košarica”, ki je potem krožila okrog je prinesla vsoto $110.35 -kar bo poslano Irene Odorizzi za “Heritage Fund”. Sestanek se je nato zaključil ob 11:30 in članice so se podale v cerkev za sv. mašo. Maševal je č. g. Fred Method (bivši župnik na Biwabiku). V svoji lepi in globoki pridigi je poudaril: da brez trdne in globoke vere ne bomo zmogle našega dela. Darovanjska darila so prinesle: gl. preds. Tory Bobence, Jean Korsman in Dorothy Jamnik. Po sv. maši smo se ponovno zbrale v dvorani za okusno kosilo. Ni manjkalo slastne potice ter jagodove posladice. Celotna dekoracija je bila vsa v jesenskem motivu in vsaka navzoča članica je prejela pero v posebnem ovitku. Fr. Method je blagoslovil jedila, govornik pa je bil znani lokalni pogrebni direktor: John Daugherty. Vsem je privabil marsikak nasmeh s svojim humorom. Bil je odličen in prijeten za poslušanje. Sledili so muzikantje in vsa dobra volja navzočih se je še bolj poživila. Radeljenih je bilo veliko darov raznih lokalnih podjetij, kakor tudi drugih. Končni "raffle” žal ni bil še oddan, bil je podaljšan za drugič, ker vodstvo ni dobilo nazaj vseh prodanih listkov pravočasno. Program se je nato končal s tem, da je bila izrečena iskrena pohvala gl. predsednici Tori Bobence za njeno tako uspešno delovanje vseh 8 let v glavnem uradu. Na prih. konvenciji bo namreč oddala svoje delo drugi izvoljeni gl. predsednici. Naša velika "Minnesotska Zveza” je na Tory zelo ponosna, saj je ona tudi “ena izmed nas”! Bog Te živi, Tory! Čas pa naglo beži! Prihodnja Minnesotska konvencija bo na Biwabik, MN. Daj ljubi Bog vsem lepo srečanje tudi v letu 1995. Za podružnico #39 ANNETUSHAR San Francisco Welcomes Usi V AMERIKO Baragov Dan v Kanadi PO BARAGOVIH STOPINJAH Preko potovalne agencije M&M - Turist v Ljubljani s sijajno vodičko gospo Ano Čadež iz Los Angelesa in duhovnim vodjem gospodom župnikom Štefanom Babičem, se je dvajset romarjev iz Slovenije od 24.6. - 7.7.1994 mudilo v krajih ob Velikih jezerih v Severni Ameriki, kjer je v prejšnjem stoletju živel in deloval naš misijonar in škof Friderik Baraga. Obiskali smo mnoge cerkve, kjer je apostoloval indijansko-očipvejskemu ter otavanskemu rodu in bil začetnik njihove pisane besede. V Petoskey-u nas je pričakala skupina Indijancev s svojim duhovnikom in na indijanska glasbila zaigrala nekaj pesmi. Vso pot nas je spremljala tudi Marijina pesem in Baragov duh. Na otoku Madeline smo si ogledali zgodovinski muzej, kjer so ohranjeni Baragovi predmeti (mašni plašč). V kraju Baraga je vodička napravila skupinski posnetek pod njegovim velikim kipom s krpljami. povsod je spomin nanj še vedno živ. V stolnici Sv. Petra v Marquettu, kjer je grobnica škofov Barage, Mraka in Vrtina sta naša dva duhovnika opravila sveto daritev. Z njo smo se poklonili njihovemu spominu. V teh krajih smo na barvastih oknih cerkva brali slovenska imena. Naši rojaki so v prejšnjem stoletju zidali cerkve. Tam so se zbirali in obujali spomine na stari domači kraj. Prisrčna in ganljiva so bila srečanja z našimi rojaki. V Clevelandu so nas pred slovensko cerkvijo Vlarijinega Vnebovzetja pozdravili z nageljni. V Lemontu - slovenske Brezje - smo skupaj peli litanije. Popoldne smo se obakrat z njimi poveselili na pikniku. Potomci naših izseljencev v Calumetu so nas nekega poznega popoldneva povabili in pogostili s poticami in pecivom. Prišli so od daleč in mnogi že petdeset let niso slišali slovenske besede. Utrnila se je kaka solza. Stisnili smo se in zapeli: mi se imamo radi! V New Yorku, v cerkvi Sv. Cirila, smo se poslovili od Amerike. Simpatična turistična delavka Darja Gačnik nas je seznanila, da živi v tem gigantskem mestu 420 Slovencev, ki se zadnja leta pogosteje videvajo, odkar imamo svojo državo. Ljubezen osrečuje ljudi! Naj tudi naš mali narod združuje in povezuje ljudi na obeh straneh oceana. Ana Marič Celovška 177 61000 Ljubljana Slovenija Nadškof Alojzij Ambrožič iz Toronta, glavni celebrant na Baragovih dneh v Sault Ste. Marie, s prijatelji iz Willarda, Wisconsin, Mary Staut (levo), Josephine in Ed Bajuk ter Msgr. Matthew Malnar. Romarji iz Clevelanda, Willarda, Toronta... so sodelovali pri liturgičnem slavju. Narodne noše so še posebej popestrile praznovanje. Slike je prispevala naša poročevalka iz Willarda, Mary Staut in njen mož, Vitko. _ PATER ASIC SVETUJE _ Zoper nespečnost je treba piti čajno mešanico sivko (lavender), baldrijano (farm valerian), jeglica-trobentica (Promise), šentjanževke (hypericum perforatum). Pripravimo si tudi okrepčujočo kopel. Precej dolgo kuhamo 1-1.5 kg. sivke v pol litra vode in jo vlijemo v kad. Če se v tej vodi kopamo, se počutimo krepke. Kopel zdravi revmo, protin, neredno menstruacijo, bolečine v spodnjemu delu telesa. Pest sivkinega cvetja namočimo 2.5 del olivnega olja in damo za 2 meseca na sonce. S tem oljem masiramo dele telesa, kjer so bolečine, zlasti po kapi. Lahko pa cvetje namočimo v spirit ali žganje. S tem masiramo glavo proti izpadanju las in proti prhlanju. Pa Bogu se priporočite! _______________________CIRILA______________________ MflSfl 5LDUEM5Kfl DEDISGIMfl Ana Gaber CQ Začetki Katoliške Cerkve v Ameriki FRANC JAKLIČ VII. BARAGA V L ANSU LA POINTE PRIVZAME O. ŠKOLA (Oktober leta 1845) Na povratku iz Detroita je v La Pointu obiskal o. Školo in se hotel od tam odpeljati z ladjo v Grand Portage. V La Pointu je pa zvedel, da ne bo nobena ladja kmalu šla. Prosil je pol Indijanca Vizona (to je Ludovika), Gaudina (Godena), naj ga pelje v svojem čolnu. Čoln je bil ozek in kakšnih pet metrov dolg; imel je nizek jambor in jadro. Bil je kakor nalašč za mirno vožnjo ob obali, ne pa za razdivjano jezero z njegovimi silnimi valovi. Skušeni La Pointčani so ju svarili, naj ne hodita. Zračna črta od La Pointa do Grand Portagea je 100 km; ob obali bi se vozila osem dni. Peljala sta se proti severozahodu in se ustavila na otoku Sand Island (Send Aljend), ki tudi spada k Apostolskim otokom. Čakala sta jugozahodnika, da bi mogla jadrati naravnost proti Grand Portageu. Lep dan je bil. Razvila sta jadro; Vizon je veslal, Baraga je krmaril. Bila sta že daleč, ko se je nenadoma zbudil vzhodni veter in vznemiril jezero. Vedno više je vzdigoval valove, čoln pa tiral proti zahodu. Zatulil, zažvižgal in zabesnel je vihar. Čolnič se je premetaval med penečimi se valovi, da se je tudi skušeni in neustrašeni pol Indijanec zbal. Zavpil je: "Nose, ki ga nibmin ganabač! Oče, midva se bova nemara potopila!” Baraga je pa ležal vznak in mirno molil brevir. Odvrnil je; “Kego segisiken, Vizon! Ne boj se, Vizon! Črna suknja ne bo utonila, ker potem bi bilo ljudstvo na oni obali nesrečno." Čoln je kakor puščica brzel proti bregu 50 km južneje, kakor sta pa nemeravala. Kaj, če bo zadel ob skalnati rob, ob katerem se je med šumom in žvižgom lomilo tuleče valovje? Vizon je zavpil: “Kam naj krmarim, oče?” Baraga, ki je še zmerom ležal vznak, molil brevir in se sploh ni zmenil za smer, mu je zaklical: "Kar naravnost naprej!” Vizon je skomizgnil z ramami, slekel suknjič, da bo v sili laglje plaval, in krmaril naprej. In čudno, zavozila sta naravnost v izliv rečice, ki si ga je naredila med skalami. Ob šestih zvečer sta stopila iz čolna. Posekala sta dve vitki drevesi, naredila tri metre visok križ in ga zasadila v nekoliko vzvišeni skalnati desni breg. Baraga je dal rečici novo ime Čibačatigo-Sibi, Križeva reka, po angleško Cross River, ki ji je ostal do danes. Tisto noč sta še dolgo potem z vzpetine gledala, kako je vihar hrumel in po jezerski planjavi gnal ogromne valove s šumečimi grivami. Drugo jutro je bilo mirno in jasno. Spet sta stopila v čolnič in se dva dni vozila do Grand Portagea. Ko so ju Indijanci zagledali, je zvonček na zasilni cerkvici veselo zavriskal. Ljudstvo je prihitelo na obalo in jima mahalo v pozdrav. Izstopila sta. Množica je pokleknila in Baraga jih je blagoslovil. Na obeh straneh izliva Križeve reke stoji vas Schroeder Village (šreder Vi ledž). Oba njena dela veže most, pod katerim pada reka v precej visokem slapu, potem teče nekoliko med skalami in se izliva v jezero. Tik pred izlivom zavije iz vzhodne smeri proti jugovzhodu. Njen močni tok je videti še daleč v jezero. Ta njen močni tok odbija ob viharjih valove, ki hočejo proti obali, tako da je tam jezero razmeroma mirno. Naravnost v te mirnejše vode je priletel Gaudinov čoln. - Blizu izliva stoji dandanes na skalnati višini na desni strani reke križ iz belkastega kamna, s podstavkom vred visok kakšne tri metere. Leta 1932 ga je duluthski škof slovesno blagoslovil. Na podstavku je napis: "Oče Baraga - 1846”. Križ stoji na istem mestu, kjer je bil Baraga z Vizonom Gaudinom postavil lesenega. Od tega so Indijanci za spomin na Barago rezali koščke. Potem so leseni križ obnavljali. Tisto leto 1846, ko je Prešeren izdal svoje Poezije, so izšle v Ljubljani pri Klemensu v 3000 izvodih Baragove “Nebeške rože”. Natisnil jih je Blaznik na 462-ih straneh dvanajsterca. To je zadnja Baragova slovenska knjiga. Napisal jo je bil že v La Pointu. V njej razlaga 16 čednosti; v dostavku ima molitve za spreobrnjenje nevernikov. Tudi “Nebeške rože” so Slovenci radi brali. Poleg Slomška je Baraga v tisti dobi najbolj znal pogoditi in negovati versko mišljenje in čustvovanje Slovencev. Njegovi spisi so preprosti, jedrnati. Iz njih diha topla prisrčnost. Tudi jezikovno za tisti čas niso slabi. * ★ * * * Kakor v januarju in juniju leta 1845, tako je Baraga obiskal katoliške vojake v Fort Wilkinsu in katoliške rudarje na Keweenawskem polotoku tudi naslednjo zimo in naslednje poletje. Dne 11. januarja 1847 se je odpravil k rudarjem po posebnem naročilu škofa Lefevra. Ko se je vrnil v L'Anse, je poslal 22. februarja škofu francosko pismo, ki se hrani v arhivu univerze Notre Dame. Takole poroča: “V januarju sem šel na misijonski obisk na Pointe Keweenaw (to je na keweenawsko Konico), kakor ste mi, Prevzvišeni, naročili. Tri tedne sem misijonaril in sem bil prav zadovoljen. Čudil sem se, da je v tamkajšnjih rudnikih toliko katoličanov: Ircev, Nemcev in Kanadcev. Vseh je več ko 240. Ponekod sem slišal, da jih bo prihodnje leto- spet mnogo prišlo, zlasti Ircev. Nekatera naselja bodo menda to pomlad opustili; vendar na splošno govorijo, da bo na polotoku drugo leto več ljudi kakor letos. Moram Vam. Prevzvišeni, sporočiti željo katoličanov na Keweenawu: prav ponižno in prav nujno Vas prosijo, da bi upoštevali njihovo zapuščenost in njihovo veliko število in jim poslali drugo leto duhovnika, ki bi stanoval v središču, v Eagle Riverju ali pa v Eagle Harborju, in hodil tudi v druge naselbine. Zavezujejo se, da ga bdo primerno zdrževali. Govoril sem tem dobrim ljudem o pomanjkanju duhovnikov v naši škofiji in da zato, Prevzvišeni, ne morete poslati duhovnikov, kamor bi želeli. Vendar Vas prosim tudi v svojem imenu, da storite za ta širni misijon, kar le morete. Jaz jih ne bom zapustil, to je res; ne morem jih pa večkrat obiskati kakor trikrat na leto. Vsako leto moram v dneh izplačevanja obiskati La Pointe, kar mi vzame vsaj poldrugi mesec. Zato moram biti vsako leto štiri mesece zunaj svojega misijona v L'Ansu; to je pa za misijon slabo, ker se šola prekine, kadar me ni. Prosim Vas, Prevzvišeni, da mi na to daste odgovor v angleščini, da ga bom lahko pokazal tem dobrim katoličanom, ko jih v maju spet obiščem, kakor sem jim obljubil." Dne 19. junija leta 1847 je pisal tudi na Dunaj: “Zadnja leta se je moje delovno področje razširilo. Približno dva dni hodo od tukaj so odkrili več bakrenih rudnikov in zdaj v njih pridno kopljejo. To je privabilo celo množico ljudi v to poprej tako prazno in zapuščeno deželo; med njimi je večji del katoličanov: Ircev, Nemcev in Francozov. Dne 11. januarja tega leta sem se odpravil na misijonski obisk v te rudnike in sem se tri tedne zadržal v njih. Obstrmel sem nad hitrim napredkom civilizacije. Na več krajih sem našel prav čedne hiše, v njih pa sobe okrašene s preprogrami in lepim pohištvom; celo klavir sem videl, ki ga je mlada Američanka prav strokovnjaško igrala. Kakšnih 250 katoličanov sem našel v teh rudnikih, pa jih je še več, ki jih to pot nisem videl. Imel sem s seboj vse, kar je potrebno za sv. mašo, krst itd. Mnogo otrok sem krstil in skoraj vse katoličane spovedal. Hodil sem okoli in vsak večer rudarjem pridigal, zdaj angleško, zdaj nemško, kakor so pač bili. Torej bo dežela ob Gorenjem jezeru končno le dobila prebivalce in civilizacijo. Govori se o majhnem mestu, ki ga mislijo ustanoviti tri dni daleč od tu." V tem pismu je na Dunaj sporočil tudi to, da je po prigovarjanju detroitskega škofa in duhovščine že spisal slovnico očipvejskega jezika, zdaj pa sestavlja še slovar. Pri obojem mu je mnogo pomagal kanadski Francoz Benjamin Clautier (Kotje) iz LAnsa, ki je dobro znal očipvejsko in poznal tudi slovnico. Spomladi bo dal, kakor upa, oboje tiskati v Detroitu. Prosi, da bi mu za tisk obeh knjig poslali na detroitskega škofa 600 dolarjev. Leopoldinina ustanova mu je na to pismo poslala 1000 goldinarjev in dva zaboja cerkvenih potrebščin in nabožnih predmetov. Za Fond du Lac je skrbel o. Škola. Ni pa bil še vajen zimskih potovanj in tudi očipvejskega še ni dobro znal. Zato je Baraga večkrat šel tja, čeprav je okoli 400 km daleč od LAnsa. Tako je n. pr. v pozni jeseni leta 1847 najprej peš potoval v rudniško ozemlje, potem se je pa s čolnom peljal v Fond du Lac. Dne 12. januarja 1848 je opisal Leopoldinini ustanovi svojo pot. Ko je pisal pismo in se spominjal veselja Indijancev v Fond du Lacu, ko so zopet videli svojega znanca, katoliškega misijonarja, so se mu pod pero vrinile trde, a zelo utemeljene besede: “Evropski duhovniki, ki so marsikje drug drugemu na poti, pa nečejo priti v te zapuščene kraje, bodo dajali Bogu odgovor, ker bi se lahko rešilo mnogo več poganskih duš, če bi jim Gospodovi služabniki prihiteli na pomoč." V Fond du Lacu je ostal cela dva meseca in pridno opravljal vsa dušnopastirska dela. Tudi jih je več krstil. Krstil je tudi 90-letno staro ženido, čisto slepo in hudo bolno. Prav sama je ležala v vigvamu, ker so jo njeni ljudje po kruti indijanski navadi prepustili usodi, ko so šli na daljni zimski lov. Oskrbovat jo je hodila usmiljena krščanska družina, ki ji je tudi vzbudila željo po krstu. Baraga se je s svojim spremljevalcem s težavo splazil v zakajeni brlog. Moral si je delati silo, da je ostal notri. Pozdravil je starko, a ga ni opazila; šele njena krščanska oskrbovalka ji je povedala. Ženica je žalostno zaprosila: "Nose, nose, žavenimičin! Oče, usmili se me!" Pomiloval jo je, ji govoril o nebesih in razložil temeljne verske resnice. Ko se je potem nekoliko menil z njo, je videl, da je še dovolj dobro razumela. Rekel ji je, da jo bo prišel drugi dan krstit, ko jo bo poprej še nekoliko poučil. Pa komaj je stopil iz vigvama, mu je nekaj reklo, naj se vrne in jo krsti. Morda je bil njen angel varuh. Res se je vrnil in jo takoj krstil. Bila je nad vse srečna. Drugo jutro so mu prinesli novico, da je ponoči umrla. “Kdor ima verno srce, si lahko misli, s kakšnim nedopovedljivim veseljem je ta novica napolnila moje srce.” Tako dostavlja v pismu. Potem piše dalje: “Pot nazaj je bila zelo težavna, zlasti od Fond du Laca do La Pointa. Mnogo težkih misijonskih poti sem že imel, a ta je bila najtežja. Predlansko zimo sem prehodil to po v štirih dneh, zdaj sem pa s silnim naporom potreboval zanjo sedem dni. To pa zato, ker je moj spremljevalec in vodnik nenadno zbolel, ko sva bila v divji samoti ravno na pol pota. Zvečer ga je napadla bolezen in vso noč ni zatisnil očesa; govoril je, da ne bo niti eno miljo mogel več naprej. Tista noč je bila strašna. Daleč okoli nobene žive duše. Tam ostati nisva mogla, ker sva bila z živežem slabo preskrbljena. Bila sva sredi pragozda, na gričevju brez potov, v silnem mrazu. Vsiljevala se mi je misel, da bo tukaj najbrž konec mojega zemskega potovanja, če mi umrje spremljevalec. - Toda to ni bila volja Dobrega pastirja, ki hoče po svojem neskončnem usmiljenju še naprej uporabljati to slabo orodje. Mojemu spremljevalcu je toliko odleglo, da je mogel drugo jutro vstati in počasi hoditi. Nesti pa ni mogel ničesar. Moral sem si torej oprtati vso prtljago in jo nositi ne samo tisti dan, ampak več dni zapored, po debelem snegu, čez hribe in doline, kar se mi prej še ni bilo pripetilo. Vendar sem bil zadovoljen, samo da je moj spremljevalec mogel naprej. Že podnevi je bilo težko, še hujše je pa postalo zvečer; na najinem počivališču sem moral nasekati drv, ker je mojega spremljevalca zelo zeblo in sem bil v strahu, da bo obležal, če se bo prehladil.’’ Z zadnjimi močmi sta se privlekla do reke Sioux (Sju) River. Tam sta zakurila tri velike ognje. To je pomenilo, da sta v nevarnosti. Ko so Indijanci v La Pontu videli te tri ognje, so prihiteli in ju spremili do vasi, do o. Škole. Od Fond du Laca sta torej hodila en teden. - Spremljevalec je ostal v La Pointu, z Bagago je pa šel do L'Ansa drug moški. Baraga pripominja v pismu: "Posebna težava na teh zimskih potovanjih je za duhovnika brevir. Podnevi ga ni mogoče odmoliti, ker je dan kratek in je treba skrbeti, da se kolikor mogoče daleč pride; treba ga je torej odmoliti zjutraj pred zoro in zvečer, pri svitu ognja, kar pa oči večkrat zelo utruja. Pa hvaležnost do Boga slajša misijonarju tudi to dolžnost." - Baraga bi bil za tako težke primere gotovo dobil spregled od brevirja, če bi bil prosil. Naporna hoja od ranega jutra do pozne noči bi ga bila tudi že sama oprostila od te dolžnosti. Baraga je pa predobro poznal pomen in moč te duhovniške molitve, zato jo je hotel vsak dan opraviti. Z njo je prosil Boga za blagoslov svojemu delu. Pismo zaključuje z besedami: “Tukaj živim zadovoljen in Bogu hvaležen, ljubeč in ljubljen kakor oče med svojimi otroki.” Tudi iz L’Ansa se je včasih peljal preko jezera h katoliškim vojakom in k Indijancem v Fort William. Večino misijonskih postaj v severnem Wisconsinu, v vzhodni Minnesoti in na Gorenjem in Dolenjem Michiganu so opravljali štirje slovenski misijonarji, vsi iz ljubljanske škofije: Baraga, Pirc, o. Škola in Mrak. Slovenci so s ponosom izgovarjali ta imena in so njihove misijone velikodušno podpirali. Tako je n. pr. leta 1847 duhovnik-profesor Franc Metelko vseh 617 goldinarjev - za tisti čas velik denar ki jih je dobil kot honorar za svojo nabožno knjižico “duhovno zrcalo", izročil ljubljanskemu škofijstvu, naj jih pošlje tem štirim slovenskim misijonarjem. Zelo nas veseli zavest, da jih je v Združenih državah mnogo, ki poznajo versko in kulturno pionirsko delo slovenskih misijonarjev in drugih tamkajšnjih slovenskih duhovnikov in ga tudi javno priznavajo. Ti naši možje so pomagali graditi temelje za veličino in bogastvo sedanjih Združenih držav. POTOVANJA IN NEVARNOSTI V LETIH 1848-1851 Ko se je Baraga vrnil iz Fond du Laca in nekoliko odpočil, je šel s spremljevalcem obiskat katoličane po keweenawskih ■ rudnikih. Vsem je prinesel mnogo tihega veselja. Baragovi dušnopastirski obiski pri rudarjih so bili pogodu tudi rudniškim višjim uradnikom, ki so mu zato šli kar se da na roko, čeprav se osebno morda niso menili za vero. Iz lastne skušnje so poznali dobri vpliv, ki ga ima pobožen in goreč duhovnik na ljudi. Najbrž je to potovanje dalo povod listu New York Observer, da je napisal lep članek o katoliških misijonarjih, zlasti o Baragi. O njem pravi, da je že skoraj 60 let star, pa porabi vse svoje dohodke - misli na prispevke iz Evrope - za svoje misijone in se tudi osebno vsega žrtvuje za svoj poklic. "Preteklo zimo -piše list - je na krpljah potoval čez neobljudene pokrajine iz L’Ansa noter v Copper Harbor na severu Keweenawskega polotoka, 57 milj (92 km) daleč, in sicer samo zato, da bi krstil otroka, o katerem je slišal, da bi utegnil umreti." V pismu do Leopoldinine ustanove Baraga omenja ta članek in pod črto pripominja o svoji navidezno visoki starosti: “Star sem 51 let; moja skoraj že 18-letna misijonska služba in zlasti številna težavna zimska potovanja so me pa tako zdelala, da mnogi, ki me prvič vidijo, mislijo, da sem že 60 let star. Vse v večjo čast božjo!" O zimskem potovanju v Copper Harbor pa pristavlja, da je tam opravil še druge misijonske posle. "To je pa gotovo, da bi jaz in vsak drug katoliški misijonar rad šel ne samo 57, ampak tudi 570 milj daleč, to pa samo zato, da bi eno samo neumrjočo in neskončno dragoceno dušo s krstom pridobil za večno zveličanje." Nadaljevanje sledi. “FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART” Abigail Adams (1744-1818) Thinking about Thanksgiving got me thinking about the various people throughout our history that played an important part. One such person, who is probably unknown for her numerous contributions and accomplishments, is Abigail Adams. Being the daughter of a Congregational Minister, Abigail, unlike most girls of her time, learned to read and write. All her schooling was done at home. She read anything and everything she could. As a result, she not only could read and write English, but French, too. She often spoke out against the unfair treatment of girls in education. (If she were born a boy, she would have attended a university.) At age 14, she met a former schoolteacher and rising lawyer named John Adams. She married him when she was nineteen. They had five children in seven years. John’s work on the Continental Congress caused him to travel, therefore, it was Abigail who ran the family business and properties. She did such a job that John credited her for the rest of her life as the family provider. At the birth of our nation most people faced financial ruin. Not the Adamses! Thanks to Abigail’s keen business head, they grew prosperous. Abigail spoke out against slavery, and strongly defended her right to teach a slave how to read. DAVY’S COLUMN On a number of occasions, Abigail wrote letters imploring and stressing the importance of a Constitution that applies to all men and women despite their race or creed. She spoke out loudly for the abolishment of slavery. Abigail Adams was the first, First Lady to live in the White House. She died at age 74. Til Next Month, LIFE IS LIKE A QUILT Life is like a patchwork quilt And each little patch is a day Some patches are rosy, happy and bright And some are dark and gray. But each little patch As it’s fitted in and sewn to keep it together Makes a finished block in this life of ours, Filled with sun and rainy weather. So let me work on life’s patchwork quilt Through the rainy days and the sun Trusting that when I have finished my block The Master may say, “Well done.” Unknown Submitted by Vera Šebenik who was the recipient of this poem herself, as a special tribute from Albina Kocisko who calls Vera the best quilt maker in the world. DAVY American Women’s History by Doris Weatherford ©1994 THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING £3 IMPERIAL TRAVEL & TOUR, INC. A Company with 15 Years Excellent Client Relations 1-800-317-1800 2536 West Peterson Ave Chicago, III. 60659 L TRAVEL (312) 338-8000 ft Committment to Cxccltotc* FAX: (312) 338-9300 Members of SWU! From Your Hometown to SAN FRANCISCO May, 1995 Lowest Guaranteed ma International £rč) Group Fares EM CHICAGO ............... 268* MINNEAPOLIS ........... 294* NEW YORK............... 298* CLEVELAND ..............314* MILWAUKEE ............. 328* 'Round trip fares to San Francisco as of Nov. 1, 1994. Fares subject to change and availability. 2ND CLASS POSTAGE PAID CHICAGO ILLINOIS SLOVENIAN DOLL COUPLE RAFFLE Help support our Slovenian Women’s Union Heritage Museum! Take a chance on winning this beautiful Slovenian Doll Couple Franci and Katica come together, as a young couple, representing the many wonderful, young Slovenians who immigrated to the United States in the last 100years. The dolls are 16”and 15” tall, respectively. Franci has a nice vest and velvet pants - Katica swishes as she dances in her pretty silk skirt. His “klobuk” and her “avba” as well as all other parts of their costumes are authentic reproductions of the Slovenian native dress of the region of Slovenia called Gorenjska. Our master doll-maker, S.W.U. Vice President, Beverly Jackson of San Francisco crafted them expressly for this fund-raiser. Tickets arc $1 each. The drawing will be held at the National Convention in San Francisco, CA, in May, 1995! Please use the coupon below as your ticket for the raffle. More tickets are available from your branch, or you can make copies of the coupon below and send it with remittance by March 15, 1995 to: S.W.U. Heritage Museum 431 No. Chicago, Street Joliet, III. 60432 NAME ADDRESS CITY PHONE NO. BRANCH NO. SLOVENIAN DOLL COUPLE RAFFLE Benefit SLOVENIAN HERITAGE MUSEUM DRAWING WILL BE HELD ON MAY 21, 1995 AT OUR CONVENTION IN SAN FRANCISCO, CA DONATION - $1.00 each All entries must be received belore May 1, 1995 At 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Tear here and mail in Coupon TODAY!