Volume 79 Issue 3 May - June, 2007 The Dawn Visitors from Slovenia Between June 20lh and July 3rd, a group of best-selling Slovenian children’s writers, Desa Muck, Andrej Rozman (Roza), Tatjana Kokalj and Evald Flisar will be touring the United States and attending the National Convention. They will be introducing (and reading from) their latest illustrated books for children from the Forget-me-not...spominčice series, all published in a bilingual, Slovenian - English format and aimed toward children of Slovenian ancestry. vV.: The first title in the series, In the Land of Gingerbread by Jana Bauer, is already available from The Slovenian Heritage Museum (orders can be placed on www.forgetmenotbooks.com). Front page photo by D. Mladenovič, Bohinj, traditional customs at a wedding. Courtesy of the Slovenian Tourist and Information Office, www.slovenia.info For the Illinois Valley Tour, the authors will be accompanied by Marija Bauer, the creator and baker of an entire gingerbread village for the first book, In the Land of Gingerbread, and will, if requested, demonstrate baking and constructing of a “fun gingerbread house” that takes minimal effort! Their entertaining is suitable for “children of all ages”. The authors are planning to begin their tour at the Slovenian Women’s Union of America anniversary gathering at Starved Rock, and then visit Slovenian communities in Florida, Washington and New York. The tour is of great importance in promoting Slovenian children’s literature and their language abroad, and is partly sponsored by the Slovene Ministry of Culture. Illinois Valley Tour Schedule On June 22 and 23, Illinois Valley area libraries and bookstores will host the Slovenian authors: V June 22 - Noon - 1:30 pm Spring Valley Library 215 K. Cleveland Street, Spring Valley V June 22 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm LaSalle Library 305 Marquette Street, LaSalle v June 22 - 4:00pm - 5:30 pm Common Grounds Book Cafe 723 S. Clark Street, Utica v June 23 - 10:00 am - 11:30 am Book Mouse 820 LaSalle Street, Ottawa v June 23 - 2:00 pm Starved Rock Lodge CONTENTS From the Editor IN EACH ISSUE 1 From the Editor 2 National President’s Message 3 National Secretary News 4 Zarja Donations 10 National Board Meeting News 13 Proposed Amendments to Bylaws 17 SWUA Scholarship News IT’S IN EVERY SLOVENIAN 18 Men in a SWU A World 19 Geneology 20 Family Connected HERITAGE NEWS 22 The Path Taken - Dopoljena pot 26 Heritage - Archival Records Scanned 27 SWUA Member of the Year 32 Slovenian Weddings 36 Branch Reports Letters to the Editor I really enjoy the Zarja Magazine, especially the history, genealogy and recipes. Thanks! - Mary’ Zakrajšek Zarja carried a report on Martin Strel’s swim of the Mississippi River (Nov/Dec 2003) under the heading “ Heroes among us” and “Farewell to the Mississippi”; and again, in the last issue (Mar/Apr 2007), how Martin on February 1, 2007 started swimming the Amazon near its source in the jungles of Peru in the Andes. Now as of April 6 (deadline for this report) our hero is nearing the Atlantic Ocean at the city of Belem, Brazil. With tongue in cheek this reporter suggested to Martin he continue swimming to Africa, which is only half the distance he just swam. Take a look at his Web site, www.amazonswim.com . - Yul Yost Celebrate Bishop Baraga Days! Midwest members, remember that on Sept. 29-30, 2007 the annual Bishop Baraga Days will take place in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and if interested in group travel by motorcoach, please contact tour leaders: Corinne Leskovar 1 773 275 1115 for Chicago area, Virginia Strukel 1 414. 543 6566 for Milwaukee; Ivanka Matic, 1 216 481 for Cleveland. - Corinne Leskovar What an exciting issue we have here, there is a little of everything. But most dear to me are the 4 1/2 pages filled with names of our generous members who graciously donated to our magazine. Please be sure to read those names and the names of those to whose honor/memory donations were made. Zarja is the organization’s largest expense but it is the strong voice that holds Zveza together. Today we are the only magazine published in the United States primarily to preserve the ethnic culture of Slovenian-Americans, and one of a few in the world. We should all be proud of this. In this issue we had to set aside a few articles for a future use. We are limited to 40 pages and it was very hard to fit everything in with this being the last issue before the National Convention. I realize many of you will be disappointed that Jenka’s Entertaining column will not be in this issue but it was necessary to hold off as you can see we have so much information. But we guarantee you that Jenka is working closely with the chef at Starved Rock Lodge for the 80th Anniversary Gala meal that she is choosing for this special event which will be featured in the following Zarja. I hope you enjoy the wedding theme issue. There are some excellent stories that I am sure you will enjoy. Congratulations to all of our Members of the Year.- Debbie Pohar, Editor Why not extend your visit to Joliet after the National Convention? Jonita Ruth, Home Office Manager is inviting you to spend a night in Joliet. Join local Branch 20 at the St. Joseph’s picnic on June 24th, Sunday, noon until 10 p.m. Sample Slovenian food, tap your toes to Slovenian music, play bingo and meander among the booths. Drinks are also available! Jonita will be more than happy to make a hotel reservation! On Monday, finish off your mini vacation with a tour of Joliet and our SWUA Heritage Museum. Again, Jonita will graciously be your tour guide! Interested? Contact Jonita! 815.727.1926 m f‘’ , ir^A .1» i?yg *fM IsMas* SHS *i?s£H- všl:-“ !S» Zaria The Dawn Donations $70 Donation Pecharich, Martha A ‘memory of Maria Pecharich, 99 $60 Donation Golobich, Mary Lynn *memory of Julie Zgonc, 23 Kovacic, Jennie *memory husband & father Frank Kovacic, 2 $50 Donation Blatnik, Bernadette ‘honor of Blatnik Family, 30 Collins, lleene *memory of Louis & Josephine Lustic, 14 Ficek, Frances & Robert *memory of parents John & Josephine Pohar, 24 Hočevar, Suzanna *memory of Frances Meglen, 93 Kosir, Mary Ann *memory of Michael Kosir, 105 Louthan, Barbara ‘memory John & Gertrude Toni Polainer, 93 McNally, Donna *memory of Mr. & Mrs. Frank Ribich, 2 Prey, Rose Ann & Morrison, Fran, 89 Rupar, Terry T *memory of William “Bill” Rupar, 38 Sanders, Joanne *memory of Joseph Story, 5 Savol, Mary Jo ‘memory of Ann M Savol, 20 Selak, Maria *memory of Ivana Selak, 55 Sheets, Susan M *memory of Edward Stergar, 5 Switalski, Rose *memory Florence Mirtel #101 Secretary, 101 Walsh, Donalyn *memory of mother Mary Tratnik former Branch 43 President, 43 Zalar, Julia, 50 $45 Donation Pachak-Holfeltz, Marcia Ann *honor of John & Anna Pachak & William & Elsie Pachak, 3 $40 Donation Burk, Mary *memory of mother Louise Schoener, 20 Paulson, Kathleen Nemanich *mcmory of Barbara Nemanich Yapel, 34 $39 Donation Tompa, Jozica, 43 $35 Donation Dickinson, Carol Jean, 50 Petrich, Joe, Pam, Lauren & Julia *memory staramama Marija Brenčič & Teta Francka Brenčič, 99 $30 Donation Bokar, Margaret ‘memory Anna Shelko Kozan, 50 Cummings, Dorothy Govcdnik ‘memory of Gertrude Malerich Govednik, 13 Dupont, Margaret *memory of Margaret Kochevar, 30 Dvornik, Donald, 20 Dvornik, Susan, 20 Edgington, George L ‘memory of Rose Scoff, 100 Ferfolia, D.L. ‘memory of Louis & Theresa Ferfolia, 42 Fidel, William M ‘honor of parents Pauline & Bill (Blakse) Fidel, 71 Fraid, Elizabeth *memory Anna Volovsek & Mary Staut, 102 Horvath, Lillian D ‘"memory of Stephen & Julia Gosztoni Horvath, 30 Koren, Dolores ‘memory of parents J & D Koren, 2 Lipic, Hilda, 100 Luoma, Marian ‘memory of Tom & Katie Duich, 13 Maloney, Mary, 85 Mam, Helen, 23 Pierzga, Mary *memory of Mary Kotar, 7 Rak, Gene F *memory of Rak/Ramuta/Strojan Ancestors, 30 Serazin, Agnes *memory of mother Agnes Celik, 40 Shubitz, Genevieve M ‘memory of mother Mary Shubitz, 33 Sovich, Josephine ‘memory of sister Lillian & Josephine, 50 Urban, Mary *memory of Johanna Artac, 102 Winter, Dorothy Ann *honor of mother Ann Winter, 50 Zoman, Theresa ‘memory of Jennie Krapf, 102 $25 Donation Aheame, Mary Ann *memory of mom Mary Link, 93 Applebaum, Margaret *memory of Margaret G Fischer, 1 Blatnik, Holly ‘memory of Vida Heisroth, 50 Blatnik, Robert *memory of Frances Blatnik, 50 Blatnik, Rose Marlene ‘memory of Albin J Blatnik, 50 Brann, Marceline ‘memory of Jennie Maver, 14 Burkland, Miriam, 99 Cesnik, James *memory of Jeva Cesnik, 103 Chilcoat, Frances M, 13 Debevec, Madeline D ‘memory of grandmothers Agnes Kastelic & Rose Urbancich, 50 Drobnick, Mary Ann ‘memory of Mary Abram Culkar, 47 Gaber, Agnes, 2 Galich, Lillian ‘memory of Ginal Powell & Josephine & Matt Glavich, 3 Glivar, Helen , 25 Globokar, Mary Louise *memory of Frances Globokar & Margaret Tomazin, 14 Goergen, Carol *memory Rudy Troya, 13 Haslup, Aggie ‘honor of mom Teresa Gorup, 42 Hlade, John, 20 Jagodnik, Irene *memory of Anthony Jagodnik, 50 Jorgensen, Holly ‘memory of Adeline Bovdik, 2 Kaisher, Margaret *memory Paul & Margaret Kaisher (Kosir), 20 Klein, Vicki "‘memory of Grandma Louise Miklavič, 24 Kosi, Barbara *memory of Mary Pacholski, 2 Kozak, Vera F ‘memory of Ann Bockanic, 30 Krpan, Anne ‘memory of Milka Ahčin Krpan, 24 Lauritzen, Mary *memory of Joseph Story, 24 Lorek, Carol ‘memory Frances Globokar & Margaret Tomazin, 14 Lukančič-Valerugo, Helen ‘memory of mother Paula Lukančič, 20 Martinka, Jeff ‘honor of Barbara Martinka, 109 Mejac, Mary Grill ‘honor of Conrad Mejac, 103 Morrissey, Janet ‘memory of Rose Sleyko McCarthy, 13 Mueller, Maureen ‘memory of Caroline Culik McGuckin, 20 Nosal, Katherine ‘memory of Edward “Skip” Evatz, 105 Nosal, Katherine ‘memory of Mary Bedenko, 105 Odorizzi, Irene Planinesk ‘memory of Emma Planinšek, 103 Pavlovčič, Frances ‘memory of Mary Pavlovčič, 40 Price, Judith ‘memory of Cecelia Verbick, 12 Radek, Father James ‘honor of Jonita Ruth, 20 Rechlitz, Judith, 43 Sanders, Millie ‘memory of Milka Ahčin Krpan, 24 Savol, Rosanne ‘memory of Ann Ramata Savol, 20 Seme, Marina ‘memory of Leopold Seme, 99 Sleigh-Layman, Staci ‘honor of sisters Dorothy Sleigh & Mary Kell, 79 Smith, Judith J ‘memory of Mary Mutž, 108 Staut, Sophie ‘memory of Mary Staut, 102 Sterle, Mary ‘memory of Richard Sterle, 32 Stimach, Joseph, 13 Tesovnik, Edward ‘memory of Olga Saye former BR I President, 1 Troya, Sohpie ‘memory of Anna Nanut, 13 Veit, Alice ‘memory of Potisk Family, 12 Wolf-Astrauskas, Marianne ‘memory of Mary Wolf, 20 Zajec, Marilea *memory of Victor W Zajec, 20 $20 Donation Adamic, Frances ‘memory of Helen Grasser, 105 Adelman, Verdean *memory of Mary Foys Lauretig, 2 Argubright, Mary Elizabeth *honor of grammy Florence Grdin Argubright, 89 Barbarich, Mary *memory of Josephine Barbarich & Josephine Zgonc, 5 Bartol, Gladys, 1 Batich, Martha *memory of Louis Batich Sr, 10 Becco, Nonna ‘honor KSK.J Immaculate Conception Lodge 104, 3 Bergant, Diane ‘memory of Joseph Bergant, 14 Blackford, Nancy *memory of grandmother Ann Dekleva Stanonik, 50 Blakely, Claire, 14 Bodisch, Annamarie *memory of mom Anna Bodisch, 93 Bolek, Ludmilla A ‘memory of Agnes Zagar * granddaughter Darlene Zagar, 47 Chisholm, Patricia *memory of Angela Hrovat, 52 Colarič, Anton, 108 Collins, Kristine *memory of Frances Cepon, 20 Corgiat Family *memory of Amelia Smith, 2 Criss, Nancy ‘memory of Johana (JoAnn) Janes Kochevar Mallow, 30 Demshar, Rosemary ‘memory of Rose Baraga, 100 Desnica, Angela, 2 Dorchak, Olga A ‘memory of Jennie Gerk, 47 Dovnik, Karl Jr ‘honor of Rosalie Dovnik, 43 Ebner, Alice, 89 Egly, Joan *memory of Mickey & Jen Juricic, 20 Erjavec, Ronald, 20 Ferguson, Leslie, 20 Freiberg, Mary Cay *memory of mother Catherin Lesatz, 43 Friedman, Mary Anne *memory of mother Mary Staut, 102 Frohna, Helen ‘memory of Mici Coffelt, 43 Gatti, Cheryl G *memory of mom anna Simovich Gatti, 3 Gobetz, Milena, 1 Gomik, Josephine *memory of Frances Spehek Kikel, 32 Grisez, Sandra *memory of Josephine Simenc, 50 Gulas, Maria , 20 Harr, Betty Ann *memory of Betty Kosak Gawor, 42 Hlavaty, Mary Ann ‘memory of Mary Zupančič Rakovec, 25 Hoppenyan, Shirley May, 33 Hubbard, Michelle K ‘memory of Frances Smolich, 35 Jacobson, Carol Marie in memory/honor of Josephine Rizzi, Mary Hinnenkamp & Dorothy Jacobson, 33 Jagodnik, Nancy *memory of Marie S. Beck, 50 Jelinek, Albert J ‘memory of Anna Gorishek Jelinek, 12 Jernigan, Tina ‘memory of Anna Potochnik, 5 Jex, Erin *memory of Ann Grambow, 12 Judnick, Marcia, 20 Kais, Mary Kay *honor of Arlinc M Fritz, 43 Kapel, Anne *memory of Buchar Family of Joliet 100, 100 Kastelic, Louis ‘memory of Mr. & Mrs. Louis Kastelic Sr., 42 Kellett, Rose *memory of mother Mary Ovsak, 89 Knezevic-Kong, Sonja ‘memory of grandmother Ljudmila Pasetta, 93 Kouchich, Jennie ’"memory of Ann Rcbernisek, 43 Kovacic-Bogovich, Dorothy ‘memory of Mrs. Vida Habjan, 25 Kozleuchar, Barbara '"memory of Cecilia Kozleuchar, 12 Kramer, Catherine A '"memory of Bertha R Wolf, 20 Kronoshek, Nancy ’"memory of Louis Konochnik, 5 Kurnick, Agnes *honor of Edward Kurnick, 13 Kuzma, Barbara, 24 Lammit, Patricia, 23 Lapornik, Justina A, 103 Laskowski, Paula *memory of Mary Rose Uremovic, 20 Lea, Josephine ‘memory of mother Jennie Pugely Br 47 Secretary, 47 Lewis, Dolores ‘memory of Ann Kakover, 2 Livaich, Marie ‘memory of Amelia Zee, 16 Lustik, Jospehine, 20 Mahalik, Tom *memory of Isabelle Rozich Mahalik, 20 Mallik, Carolyn, 25 Martin, Deanna ’"memory of Ana Simonich Dickovich, 30 Masters, Sandra ‘memory of husband Mel Masters, 20 Maxin, Catherine ‘memory of mother Mary Maxin, 50 Mazeres, Rose Marie, 30 Medved, Albina ‘memory of Theresa Bajda Vlaisavljich, 23 Megahan, Cherly ‘memory of Anna Karun, 105 Metzler Lyon, Sherri ‘memory of Mary Ann Boyance McCue, 1 Miklich, Helen, 3 Misic, Josephine ‘memory of Angela Misic, 50 Muren, Juli, 6 Newberg, Connie ‘memory of grandma Katherine Slogar, 23 Oswald, Shirley ‘memory of Anna Medo & Anne Lubick, 13 Ovnik, Judith ‘memory of Mary Ovnik, 2 Pajunen, Nancy ‘memory of mother Josephine Koshcher Erickson, 109 Palcic, Mary H , 93 Palmer, Roberta ‘memory of Josephine Zabel Palmer, 2 Pausic, Bonnie Lynn ‘honor of Ann & Emeric Pausic, 108 Penko, Frances ‘memory of sister Mary March, 10 Peppard, Gerard ‘memory of Jennie Benedick & Louise Peppard, 20 Petroskey, Antoinette ‘memory of Eileen Poderzay, 34 Pigat, Jessie ‘memory of Pauline Pigat, 47 Plautz, George, 102 Plavan, Julie ‘memory of Telban & Plavan Family, 25 Potisk, Shirley ‘honor of Herman Potisk, 12 Povsic, Maria ‘memory of Francka & Boleslav Povsic, 30 Pyszka, Rita Mae ‘honor of Josephine Šinkovec & Mr. & Mrs. J Pyszka, 24 Rehn, Ona ‘memory of Yonk & Skip Komater, 89 Ruggera, Frances, 20 Rupar, Joan, 1 Shine, Elsie ‘memory of Jennie Shine, 54 Shine, Wanda ‘memory of Ivana Shine, 54 Škerjanec, Alice, 3 Smith, Marcia Jean ‘memory of mother Vem Zadel, 30 Soltysinski, Jaqueline ‘memory William & Mary Kompare, 16 Sostakowski, Barbara ‘honor of family, 47 Stanfield, Sylvia ‘memory of our deceased members, 5 Steensland, Janet ‘memory of Father David Stalzer & Margaret Stalzer, 20 Stratton, Anne K , 108 Staut, Becky ‘memory of grandmother Mary Staut, 102 Stupnik, Frank ‘memory of Rose Brula Stupnik, 30 Suwal, Laurie Kambic ‘honor of all Kambic’s, 20 Terry, Marsha ‘honor of Emma Lesar Olson, 79 Thompson, Josephine, 5 Todaro, Geraldine ‘memory of Daniela Zndarsic Marolt, 47 Toth, Rose Mary ‘memory of Albina Mrsnik, 50 Udovich, JoAnn M ‘memory of mother Theresa Udovich, 1 Ukovich, Susan & Robert, 20 Urbas, Sophie ‘memory of Kristina Urbas, 10 Valenčič, Marge ‘memory of Mary Tomsic, 71 Vertacic, Shirley ‘memory of Mary M Vertacic, 1 Vokurka, Mary Ann ‘memory of Mary Kastigar Marinčič, 2 Vranesic, Josephine *memory of Bernard Vranesic, 20 Wanthal, Mary "“memory Margaret and Rev. David Stalzer, 20 Warren, Joann, 26 Wojdula, Elsie *memory of Wojdula & Kroschel Families, 2 Yost, Yul, 109 Zakrajšek, Mary, 86 Zandecki, Marie, 24 Zupančič, Francis *memory of Paul J Zuponcic, 16 $15 Donation Blatnik, Mary C *memory of Ann Tercek, 50 Eckert, Jeanette *memory of mother Angela Steiner, 100 Findley, Mary "“memory of Mary Dragan, 5 Goste, Lucille *memory of husband Alvin Goste, 99 Ivons, Jean, 10 Kiml, Irene *memory of Anna Novak Kuhel, 47 Kuhar, Margaret "“memory of Matija Plečnik, 25 Mickelson, Therese, 34 Nemanich, Josephine Pauline, 23 Oldenburg, Frances "“memory of Mary Rojic, 20 Otto, Helen , 43 Pubentz, Margaret K, 20 Robinson, Marie, 108 Roland, Virginia *memory of Andy & Christine Susman, 103 Rukavina, Thyra , 33 Stragisher, Mary A, 32 Tusek, Dorothy "“memory of Ann Dekleva-Stanonik, 50 Twers, Michele K *memory of Josephine Aiuto, 13 Vidmar, Marilyn Frances *memory of mother Julia Zak, 32 Zgonc, Angeline *honor of 95th birthday of mom Angeline A Zgonc, 40 Zimmer, Marie *Antonia Legan, Antonia Matis, Julia Lipnos & Frances Tomsic, 42 $10 Donation Adamic, Mary Jane "“memory of Pauline Boben, 66 Adkisson, Helen, 34 Aikovich, Mary, 95 Ambrozich, Dolores *memory of Father David Stalzer, 20 Ancel, Josephine Marie, 46 Andrews, Dorothy "“memory of Margaret Ostroska, 68 Andrews, Frances Mary *memory of mother Mary Kapla, 25 Anonymous *memory of Josephine Železnikar, 2 Antich, Anne M, 99 Anzo, Terry "“memory of Florence Mirtel and Mary Zito, 42 Argubright, Marilyn, 89 Azman, Alice *memory of mom Anna Tomsic, 14 Bailey, Bernice Prosen, 30 Bajuk-Woelfl, Martina, 40 Banich, Mary Irene , 89 Barnaby, Helen "'memory of all family members, 16 Barnett, Stephanie, 3 Bartlett, Denise Paula *honor of Corinne Leskovar, 43 Bcncin, Diane M & Sheri "“memory of Molly M Mauer, 50 Berg, Margaret, 39 Bcstic, Virginia *mcmory of mom Frances Juvančič, 55 Bissell, Heather M "‘honor of Glavich Family, 3 Bozic, Alice *memory of Susan Ann Bozic, 50 Brown, Deborah "'memory of Anton Skul, 30 Brunner, Mary Ann & Gene "'memory Pohar & Brekan Family, Burger, Rose "'memory of mother Angela Blatnik, 33 Burjes, Caterina , 25 Butterbach, Patricia, 20 Cargould, Lainie *honor of Milo & Binnie Uelilein, 40 Cook, Agnes "‘memory of Theresa Potokar, 32 Crouch, Julia Horwath *memory of Helen M. Horwath, 20 Cukale, Margaret, 2 Daniel Gergisch, Joan *memory of Agnes Gergisch, 1 Debevec, Agnes "“memory of Frank Debevec, 102 Debevec, Pauline "“memory of Matt Debevec, 25 DiBartolomeo, Lillian "“memory of France Papesh, 20 DiMatteo, Mary T "“memory of mom Mary E Bohte, 63 Dirker, Sophie , 20 Donofrio, Adrienne "‘memory of Evelyn Fabian Tome, 2 Dragan, Angeline *memory of Martin & Mary Dragan, 5 Drobnick, Julie F "“memory of Mary Drobnick, 32 Edwards, Vera, 24 Ehnat, Mary Therese "‘memory of Mary Brebrick & Mary Matasich, 16 Eide, Shirley *memory of Dorothy Gens, 24 Emery, Catherine, 20 Erickson, Teresa "“memory of mom Mary Sasek, 79 Faas, Dolores M "“memory of Jane Yadlosky, 103 Fabian, Antoniette "“memory of Lewis E Fabian , 2 Fassiotto, Betty "“memory of Tom Fassiotto, 20 Fidel, Pauline "“memory of Pauline Micklege, 71 Fitzsimmons, Bernadette "‘memory of Teta Jerica, 108 Francisco, Kay "“memory of Dr. Karl J Sitar, 20 Gable, Helen, 26 Galleberg, Agnes "“memory of Mary Ivanovich & Frances Staverishek, 33 Gillen, Elizabeth "“memory of Nancy Mramor, 50 Glivar, Dolores "“memory of parents Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Glivar, 100 Glowienka, Frances memory of Mary Kokalj, 12 Godec, Josephine, 47 Godfrey, Dorothy "“memory of Rose Zbasnik, 30 Goetz, Dana "“memory of mother Sophie Stampfel, 12 Goritchan, Gabriella "“memory of mom Mary Peterkov, 35 Gorshe, Margaret S "“memory of Amelia & Frank Gorshe, 30 Gospo, Clare , 2 Govednik, Jean, 20 Gregorich, Mary Ann, 20 Gruden, Angela J "“memory of Angela Vidic Perko, 42 Gruenke, Agnes "“memory of Grace & Ray, 1 Gudac, Bernadine "“memory of Thomas & Anne Buchar, 20 Gulliford, Janet, 25 Hanks, Jacqueline J, 32 Hanzlik, Maria "“memory of Gisela Lah, 2 Harris, Suzanne "“memory of Angela Perko, 42 Hartmann, Lillian M *memory of Mick Hartmann, 12 Harwood, Elizabeth "'memory of Angela Verant, 38 Healy, Margaret, 105 Hennelly, Dolores “"memory of Mildred James, 95 Herrick, Charlen "‘memory Marion Herrick, 102 Hoag, Laveme "‘memory of Anne Mickovich, 38 Homa, Heidi C "‘memory of Great-Grandma Dclopst, 43 Hrncic, Lisa "“honor of Angela Tominšek, 93 lcenhour, Mary Louise, 30 Ivanich, Daniel "‘memory of Mayme Ivanich, 20 Janezic, Josephine, 43 Jclovnik, Richard E ""memory of Mary Ann Jclovnik, I Jermene, Murielann *memory of deceased members of Jermene Family, 85 24 Judnic, Cynthia, 2 Kambic, Cyrilla "‘memory of Martin Kambic Jr, 20 Kaminikar, Terry "‘memory of Kernz & Kamnikar Families, 89 Kaplan, Eileen F Smemory of Katarina Gersick (Gcrsec), 3 Karlinger, Mary Therese "'memory of Mary Erjavec Karlinger, 3 Kellen, Susan O’Block "‘memory of Kathryn Bergcnt, 26 Kern, Sophia *memory of Mary Nemanich, 71 Kiehna, Sonya, 20 Klainsek, Genevieve *memory of Agnes Lovati, 20 Klemenčič, Frances L * memory of parents Joe & Frances Klemenčič, 10 Klun, Marie A *memory of Rose Kozar, 23 Koci, Jean, 100 Kociancic, Mary Rose *memory of mother Mary Locniskar, 47 Kocinec, Wanda, 99 Kopfensteiner, Kathleen, 2 Korst, Joyce A, 20 Kovacevich, Margaret *memory of son David Kovacevich, 32 Kovačič, Nika B , 108 Kovic, Judy *memory of mom Helen Darin, 20 Krall, Frances *memory of mother Mary Zupančič, 10 Kuhar, Alice, 14 Kwiecinski, Mary Anne *memory Mary Krebs, 39 Lanari, Vida, 39 Laposa, Josef *memory of Anne Pogotek Spiller, 5 Leach, Agnes C *memory of Josephine Aiuto, 13 Leben, Barbara, 20 Leffler, Gloria Kay *memory of Rosie Dugar, 5 Leskovsek, Natasha, 108 Lesnik, Joan *memory of Mary Lesnik, 20 Lesnik, John *memory of Mary Lesnik, 20 Lesnik, Julie J *memory of Mary Lesnik, 20 Lilek, James, 20 Little, Lorelei *memory of Mary Dasovec, 30 Lopour, Cheryl A *honor of Frank & Martha Kotnick Family, 1 Luebke, Rose, 12 Malone, Nancy Carol *memory Frank & Patricia E. Zevnik, 30 Marel, Eleanor , 91 McFarland, Helen L, 66 Mega, Janet Ida *memory of Nick & tom Mega, 33 Menchak, Milka *memory of Mazy Coffelt, 43 Mikec, Albina *memory of Darinka Tkalec, 2 Miklich, Rose *memory of Miklich Family, 14 Mills, Marcelline *memory of Jean Jemescic, 25 Mlakar, Rosemary *memory of Jean Kurilich, 100 Mohr, Mary Frances *memory of Mary Konovsek, 5 Musil, Angela, 30 Mustonen, Adeline, 34 Nauheimer, Dolores, 2 Nething, Aimee *memory of Mary Staut, 102 Nevelos, Dorothy *memory of Betty Pearl, 63 Niskala, George, 23 Novak, Carol *memory of grandmother Katherine Wedic, 20 Novak, Frances, 16 Novak, Genevieve *memory of Margaret Mihelič, 97 O'Blak, John *memory of Andrew & Theresa O’Blak, 20 O’Connor, Anna, 26 Ogoreuc, Frances Alice *memory of husband Frank, 32 Omerza, Mary *memory of Mary Dcyak, 23 O’Neill Family *memory of great-grandparents Mr. & Mrs. Louis Fink, 42 Otis, Jennifer *memory of mother Frances Jursinovic Higgins, 20 Ovnik, Marie *memory of Mrs. Mary Ovnik, 2 Pakiz, Susan *honor of mother Hedwig Bauer & mother-n-law Rose Pakiz, 102 Palkovich, Donald , 109 Pelander, Lois M, 33 Penrod, Marian Rose *memory of son Frederick Jr, 32 Perak, Dorothy *memory of Daniel Perak, 16 Perko, Ann, 3 Perme, Vida Theresa *memory of Francis Perme, 32 Peterlin, Victoria *memory of mother Frances Peterlin, 25 Petrick, Hermina, 3 Pieman, Justine, 50 Pisoni, Viola, 46 Podlesnik, Ann *memory of Emma Zagar Franczak, 2 Potepan, Agnes * memory of brother Frank, 30 Pozelnik, Albina, 25 Prijatel, Evelyn, 23 Prime, Donna *memory of mother Jennie Prime, 10 Prince, Sophie M *memory of Rose Schubert, 34 Purkat, Jane *memory of Ann Purkat, 39 Radosevich, Margaret *memory of Mary Shubtiz, 33 Ready, Rebecca *memory of Victor Gorshe, 3 Rossi, Dorothy *memory of Sylvia Spretnjak, 16 Rudolph, Anne, 38 Rupnik, Vida, 50 Ruthenberg, Helen *memory of mother Mary Ujcich, 12 Ryan, Mary Pat *memory of mother Stephana Kobe Ryan, 28 Sadowski, Lillian *memory of mother Mrs. Antonia Legan, 42 Sartorelli, Anne Schoener *memory of Louise Schoener, 20 Satej, Carol *memory of Jennie Mohorčič, 68 Scheidt, Marie , 20 Schiltz, Kathleen J, 33 Scholp, Elizabeth *memory of Rose M Pasdertz, 20 Schultz, Frances M *memory of Frances Zibert, 99 Schwerin, Justine *memory of Puklavetz Family, 2 Sebalj, Olga, 20 Seday, Olga Mary *memory Mary Zupančič & Theresa Seday, 10 Sertich, Concetta *memory of Matt Sertich, 16 Sever, Wanda *memory of Josephine Klun, 47 Sholar, Ray *memory of Mary and Esther Sholar, 30 Simenz, Susan Marie, 1 Simicak, Antonia *honor of Zarja, 32 Sisto, Helen, 2 Skebe, Matilda *memory of Matilda Skebe, 100 Skusek, Tillie A *memory of sister Mary Cvar, 43 Sleigh, Dorothy *memory of Anna Mae Anderson, 79 Smole, Fannie *memory of Stavia Dobersek, 12 Smorkol, Florence, 24 Smuk, Gloria, 23 Spelich, Delores & Elmer, 24 Sray, Olga *honor of Marija Hoffner Jancak, 47 Stancar, Ann M *memory of Frances Stancar, 1 Stanek, Christine, 2 Starich, Rita M *memory of brothers Tony, Joe, John, John F, Louis, Wanzel Frank & sister Mary, 43 Statkus, Elsie, 2 Stebick, Rose Marie, 101 Stefanich, Lillian *memory of Louise Gregorash, 20 Steffen, Billie Jo *memory of Mary Anne Boyance McCue, 1 Stofac, Mildred *memory of Anna Grahek, 3 Strle, Cecilia *memory of Frances Gregorash, 20 Stropnik, Milena, 1 Strupeck, Viola * memory of Katherine Osterman, 2 Stupica, Josephine *honor of Frances Stupica, 14 Sustarich, Virginia *memory of Katie Judnick, 13 Swintosky, Dorothy and Family, 30 Tarizzo, Marilyn, 20 Taylor, Karen *memory of Frances Assmussen, 89 Telich, Florence, 23 Thomas, Amelia *memory of Frances Levstek Jerich, 103 Tiedmann, Marie *memory of mother Mary Koscak, 2 Todd-Fellows, Mary Alyce, 2 Troha, Helen *memory of Rudolph J Troha, 50 Turek, Victoria *memory of Antonia Turek National Pres., 50 Tverberg, Althea *memory of Anna Sever, 33 Urankar, Stanley *memory of Dorothy Urankar, 30 Urbas, Helen *memory of Anna Virant Urbas, 103 Valenčič, Shirley Ann *memory husband Steve Valenčič Jr., 14 Valent, Jennie *memory of Frances & Martin Certalic, 99 Vannucci, Patricia A *memory of Barbara Petek, 100 Vett, Louise *memory of Ann Savor, 54 Vidmar, Frances, 50 Vinyard, Elizabeth, 20 Vlasic, Maria *memory of Mary Pecharich, 99 Vodnik, Antonia *memory of Antonia Lubesek, 12 Vodovnik, Barbara, 35 Voelk, John, 23 Volpe, Marian *memory of John & Agnes Zomik, 105 Vrhovnik, Mary *memory of Mary Slabe, 2 Walsh, Marie *memory of Mary B Tomazic, 20 Williams, Margaret, 20 Yapel, Agnes *memory of Angela Pavlich, 34 Yerman, Mary *memory of Mary Stariha, 13 Yovanovich, Frances *memory Mary Konovsek, 5 Yovanovich, Sue Ann *memory Mary Frances Mohr, 5 Yucevicius, Frances *memory of Josephine Toplak, 2 Zabak, Agnes D *memory of Mary J Hrovat, 47 Zakosek, Thomas *memory of Zakosek’s, 99 Zaletel, Josephine *memory of Albert Zaletel Sr., 1 Zaletel, Wilma, 1 Železnik, Rosalie *memory of Dorothy Latino, 47 Zidan, Heidi *honor of grandmother Franie Zidar, 25 Zidan, Hope *honor of grandmother Franie Zidar, 25 Zubek, Genevieve, 2 Zupančič, Leopolda *memory of Martin Zupančič, 100 Zupancich, Judith, 23 $5 Donation Allen, Veronica, 7 Androjna, Francka, 14 Anonymous, 14 Anonymous, 93 Arthur, Elizabeth ‘memory of mother Helen Pizar, 12 Attaway, Margaret, 20 Banker, Helen *memory of mom Helen Less, 25 Bartholomew, Annie *memory of Ann Potochar Elliott, 25 Bartholomew, Nancy *memory of Ann Potochar Elliott, 25 Batic-Sciarrabba, Beverly *memory of mom Mary L Batic, 32 Baum, Helen *honor of Cecilia Adamic-Kostka, 30 Beilis, Tanja Cepon, 20 Benac, Helen, 20 Bevsek, Sophie *memory of husband Frank M Bevsek, 43 Bledsoe, Henrietta *honor of Frances Martin, 100 Bratovich, Ellen , 79 Bregant, Mary, 43 Briggs, Debra A, 30 Brozina, Dorothy, 10 Bubel, Bernice M *memory of Walter Bubel, 95 Cavey, Elsie ’memory of Valencie & Cavey Families, 25 Ceglar, Bernice, 35 Charvat, Eleanor, 42 Ciszek, Elsie *memory of mom Mary Reich, 2 Cooke, Anne *memory of mother Anna , 32 Costell, Linda M, 100 Doles, Anne *memory of Frank Doles, 50 Dovnik, Aleah M, 43 Dovnik, Danielle , 43 Dovnik, Rosalie ‘memory of Maria Coffclt, 43 Dragan, Frances *memory of Joseph Dragan, 12 Dunlap, Dolores , 5 Dzamonja, Nevena, 43 Elish, Jeannette Zaman *memory of Jennie Zaman, 10 Farrell, Sandra, 13 Ferguson, Michalene, 20 Ferkul, Mary, 39 Flisek, Jennie *memory of Carl A Flisek, 91 Fooy, Anna M *memory of Charlene Fooy, 55 Fooy, Dori Kregar *memory of Milka Kregar, 55 Fooy, Nicholas Thomas *memory of Milka Kregar, 55 Ford, Linda, 47 Fritz, Arline M , 43 Gallun, Elizabeth *memory of husband Edward, 43 Glavich, Agnes, 3 Godec, Angela *memory of Joseph “Phil” Godec, 23 Grahek, Dorothy *memory of Mary Kastelic, 23 Gregorich, Mollie, 20 Gremett, Diana Fir *honor of mom Maria Fir, 13 Griffin, Frances, 95 Haug, Maria Bowers, 20 Henrickson, Karen , 20 Hervol, Helen *memory of Henry J Hervol, 71 Hester, Daniel Kokal *memory of Daniel Conrad Kokal, 108 Hollerich, Lois *memory of Mary Meznarich, 24 Hostnik, Patricia, 105 Hozzian, Jessica Anne, 2 Hull, Mara Cerar, 30 Jaksic, Florence, 25 Jarkovich, Bernice *memory of mother’s, 16 Juvančič, Nettie *memory of John Juvančič Jr, 55 Kambič, Donald, 100 Karges, Cyndi *memory of Anton Grayhack, 20 Klepec, Betty, 20 Klepec, Dolores, 20 Kobe, Charlene, 20 Kobe, William, 20 Kobow, Estelle, 12 Kochevar, Adeline *honor of Albert Kochevar, 3 Korsman, Jean *memory of mother Annie Purkat, 39 Kotnick, Frank M *memory of Jean Kotnick-Steffes, 1 Kotnick, Martha *memory of MaryAnn Kotnick Jeloynik, 1 Križman, Jean, 50 Kugland, Karen *memory of Peterson Family, 12 Lauer, Wendy *honor of mom Janice Bedenko Mueller, 24 Laurich, Anne L, 38 Lawrence, Rose Marie, 71 Lekan, Marilyn T, 32 Mahan, Dorothy, 20 Marquardt, Darrell, 20 Marquardt, Lydia, 20 Maslyk, Virginia Bendick, 30 Massaia, Amelia, 93 Mata, Menky *honor of Sylvia Zupančič Troop, 20 Mavrich, Helen ‘memory of Keith Mavrich & Janice Salisbury, 7 McDonald, Carol, 38 Merc, Josephine ‘memory of sister Blanka Tonkli, 25 Mcrshnik, Theresa F, 12 Metesh, Bernice, 20 Meyers, Rose *memory of Horvat Family, 20 Mihelich, Clare, 20 Mikulich, Arlette, 35 Mismash, Ann *memory of Anna Milinkovich, 35 Mladic, Keaton *memory of Ann Mladic, 2 Mohorčič, Emily, 68 Motta, Frances, 103 Needham, Antonette *memory of mom Louise Barbarich, 43 Okleson, Mary , 14 Panyan, Bertha C, 33 Pecaric, Irene *memory of Darinka Tkalec, 99 Peterson, Mildred J, 20 Petrich, Gerry *memory of Julie & Tony K.lun, 23 Petrich, Verna, 6 Pivik, Marie, 25 Piwoni, Frances *memory of sister Helen Pizar, 12 Plese, Eileen, 20 Plut, Dolores *memory of deceased family members, 20 Pogorelc, Anne, 43 Ponikvar, Joanne *memory of Rose Racher, 54 Puzel, Julie *memory of mother Julia Zaman, 23 Rudman, Eleanore *memory of mom Anna Pieman, 50 Sadar, Julia *memory of mother Julia Bencelich, 50 Sadar, Mary *memory of Edward J Sadar, 14 Schulta, Shirley, 43 Schultz, Frances, 20 Scotton, Edna, 42 Sebahar, Victor Jr. *honor of Lucy Tidmarsh, 16 Sever, Clara *memory of mom Christine Menart, 30 Shisila, Christine *memory of husband , 30 Skansgaard, Joanne P ‘memory of Betty Zupec, 23 Skorich, Agnes *memory of Mary Kraus, 25 Smith, Angela *memory of Kozina Family, 39 Smutnak, Bevery. 20 Stofac, Mildred, 3 Tanita, Alexis G, 100 Tanita, Cynthia, 100 Velikan, Judith *memory of Caroline Velikan, 5 Vergo, Mary, 20 Vidmar, Michael, 20 Vidmar, Nicholas , 20 Virant, Justin *memory of Carol M Virant, 1 Vogrin, Mary, 50 Vozel, Rosemarie *memory of Mitzi Krapenc, 2 Vukelich, Mary J *memory of mother Mary Radinovich, 83 Webb, Ida Barut, 46 Yernatich, Margaret *honor of mother Agnes Tekautz, 34 Zak, Ann Marie *memory of Anton J Zak, 25 $2 Donation Miklavcik, Mary *memory of Antonia Svigel, 68 Zuponcic, Helen *memory of Johanna Bradach, 35 $1 Donation Schoonover, Andrew *honor of Grandma Jean, 39 Schoonover, Madeline Jean *honor of Grandma Jean, 39 Schoonover, Valerie *honor of Grandma Jean, 39 Member-Get-A-Member Campaign DEADLINE June 1,2007 Announcing a fantastic opportunity to enroll a family member or friend at unbelievable rates of $10.00 per year for adults and free for children up until age 18. We know that the best way to build SWUA is through word of mouth. The Member-Get-a-Member Campaign offers you a chance not only to introduce your family and friends to the many benefits and opportunities of membership in SWUA, but also a chance to win a commemorative Slovenian doll. Volunteers of Branch 1 of Sheboygan, WI made this doll and costume exclusively for our National Convention. For every new member you enroll your name will go into the drawing for this doll, which will be held on Saturday, June 23, 2007. Additional chances can be purchased for $ 1.00 per chance or fifteen chances for $ 10.00. (See inside back page) But hurry you must act soon as this offer ends on June 1. 2007. Please fill out the application below and return with a postmark date of June 1, 2007. I-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 YES, 1 want to join SWUA. I want to preserve and promote the legacy of our Slovenian-American heritage. As a member 1 will receive the publication ZARJA-Tlie Dawn. 1 can affiliate with branches and events across the country, and best of all, I will come in contact with fellow Slovenians. Junior (Birth to 18) 2007 Dues FREE ($5 after 6/1/07) Adult 2007 Dues $10 ($20 after 6/1/07) Name ____________________________________________________________ Street Address City/State Zip Phone Email Date of Birth ___________________________________________________ Do you speak Slovenian? Please describe your ancestry______________________________________________________________ Branch affiliate number (if known) ____________________________________________ Location Referred by ___________________________________________________________ Location___________ Please make checks payable to SWUA and send to SWUA 431 N Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432 L For questions contact wprokup@aol.com Slovenian Women’s Union of America National Board Meeting February 22 - 24, 2007 Attending the Meeting: President Kathleen Ferrante, Vice President Betty Ann Kolesari, Secretary Bonnie Prokup, Treasurer Jonita Ruth, First Auditor Beverly Menart, Second Auditor Denise P. Bartlett, Third Auditor Nancy Henkel, Special Projects Director Mary Lou Voelk, Zarja Editor Debbie Pohar, Zarja Consulting Editor Corinne Leskovar, IL-IN Regional President Genevieve Buol Opening prayer, roll call and opening comments were given by President Ferrante. Forms were distributed for reimbursement of travel expenses. President Ferrante commented that we participated in the Slovenian Organization Survey forwarded by Slovenian Ambassador Žbogar regarding promotion and preservation of our archives and material of Slovenian Immigrant Heritage. The Home Office has several copies of hard-bound Zarja volumes from the past available for sale at $45.00 each. Discussion ensued about the 80th Anniversary Banner that was hung on the building last year and was damaged by wind. Office Manager Ruth will contact the printing company that made the banner to determine the cost of either fixing or replacing it. The Scholarship Program: Scholarship Director Mary Turvey was unable to attend, however she furnished a detailed report of the progress and financial situation of the Scholarship Fund and Scholarship Foundation. Treasurer Ruth made the suggestion that the Continuing Education Scholarship should be increased to $1,000. This suggestion will be recommended to Director Turvey. Home Office Manager: Jonita Ruth provided a report on the various duties she performs in Home Office. After a count of remaining cookbooks, reports were given on revenue on the various categories such as: More Pots and Pans and Women ,'v Glory cookbooks, pins and charms, donations and gift shop items. An aggressive program has been established to sell the remaining cookbooks. Auditor Henkel stated she sent notices to numerous churches in her area asking them to put an advertisement in their bulletin mentioning that these cookbooks were for sale and who to contact. This was successful. Another way to promote cookbook sales is for a feature in a local newspaper mentioning ethnic cooking. The cookbooks will be for sale at the national convention. Special Projects Director: Mary Lou Voelk gave a presentation on the Heritage Museum and distributed a hand-out on “How To...Achieve Success in Your Museum Store”. Director Voelk expressed her concerns and thoughts on the building condition and keeping it up and in good repair. The building was built in 1910 and will need more repairs as it gets older. She expressed the many comments that are the result of the questionnaire completed by the board at last year’s meeting. They arc: should the building be sold; it’s a money pit; we need room to expand, too small; too old; located in a slow growth area; do not have funds for major repairs; must make major changes, but stay in Joliet; need newer larger building; present setup is not working; needs new look, update; Home Office and Museum should not be in the same building; would like to sell building, house museum in a home or with another museum; hire a museum director, someone locally as the primary person. She suggested that a committee be formed now to discuss the building issues. It would be helpful to have branch pledge volunteers to staff the museum. Director Voelk explained our partnership with a Slovenian literary organization to promote the exclusive sale in the US of the children’s book “In The Land of Gingerbread” written in both English and Slovenian by Jana Bauer. At this time, Ms. Bauer is planning to attend the Slovenian Expo at the 80th Anniversary Gala. If she is unable to attend we hope to offer signed bookmarks for those purchasing a book. Director Voelk presented President Ferrante with a large Slovenian flag donated from Beverly and Bob Blaszkowsik from Branch 33 in Duluth, MN to be hung at Starved Rock for the National Convention. The flag was given to them by Primož Petak from Logatec, Slovenia. After the convention the flag will reside at the Heritage Museum. First Midwest Bank Trust Accounts: Ron Erjavec and Joy Gruber, CFA from the Midwest Bank and Trust presented the investment update of the SWUA investment accounts. Again this year, we will continue to comply with the ruling of having our investments split accordingly to 80% in Fixed Income and 20% Variable Income. Our organization is in good financial standing and in compliance with the Illinois Department of Insurance. Their presentation resulted in the following suggestion to transfer funds from T. Rowe Price Mid-Cap Growth Fund to Vanguard Index Trust Vanguard 500 Fund effective February 23, 2007. The board agreed unanimously to their proposal. Auditors Report: First Auditor Menart presented the results of the auditors review on all of the accounts and their financial books. All of the accounts were found to be in order. They recommend that money received for Heritage Items and Cookbooks be deposited when received. Slovenia 2007: President Ferrante described the tour to Slovenia planned with Kollander World Travel for September 17-28, 2007. National Secretary: National Secretary Prokup gave her report explaining the challenges and the accomplishments during her term. She also gave a detailed presentation on the existing membership by geographic area. Currently, we have 4,246 members. Changes are necessary if we are to grow. A discussion was had on the position of National Secretary and National Treasurer. With the upcoming election of new officers, it was decided that the duties of these positions may need to be changed. Accountant William Prokup presented the financial situation as of December 31, 2006. As per the Illinois Department of Insurance, the Board unanimously adopted the Slovenian Women’s Union of America Investment Policy of February 1,2003. He also mentioned that SWUA is the last burial society existing in the state of Illinois. Website: Tony Rizzo is our new volunteer Webmaster. He is working with Leslie Cummings to maintain the website and keep the information current and timely. Tony has been very quick with our changes and updates. On-Line Newsletter: Jan King has stepped up to this volunteer position and doing an awesome job of keeping information progressing on a monthly basis. Heritage Museum Gift Shop: Theresa Burns has assumed the responsibility of the Gift Shop inventory. She is maintaining an accurate count of the gift shop items in inventory, as well as sales of items. She will make sure the Gift Shop items are available for sale at the convention. These items will include mugs and shirts. A new pin/charm will be available. Zaria Editor. Design Editor, and Consulting Editor: Editor Pohar explained the format of the new Zarja. The team has added ten new columns and they continue to theme each issue. It is important that National Officers and reporters meet their deadlines for submission to insure that articles will be published on a timely basis. They have already made plans for the 2008 issues. Discussion ensued about the publication continuing to be printed by Croatian Franciscan Press. The team is continually researching to determine what is the best quality printer for the best price. The board vote unanimously to allow them to make any changes necessary to insure that the Zarja will continue to be printed bi-monthly. Consulting Editor Leskovar has indicated that she would prefer to reorganize her workload. The board agreed unanimously to continue to give her $200.00 a month until the 80th Anniversary of the Zarja. She will continue to write articles and proofread of the articles. Denise Bartlett volunteered to be a proofreader for all articles, if needed. National Convention 2007 and 80th Anniversary Gala: The upcoming National Convention will be held in the historic Illinois Valley at Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center June 21 -24, 2007. Bonnie Prokup, Debbie Pohar and Nancy Henkel shared with us their plans and agenda. The board unanimous approved that transportation and accommodation costs will be paid for the national officers attending the National Convention. Many of the National Officers present have already expressed that they will not require reimbursement for their transportation costs. Help is needed to set up and tear down the 80'1’ Anniversary Gala premises at the convention as well as setting up the Slovenian Expo. With all of the work involved as Co-Chair of the National Convention, Secretary Prokup resigned as chair of the Nominating Committee. Vice President Kolesari has accepted the position as Nominating Committee chair. Bylaw Amendments: Committee Chair Bartlett discussed all of the proposed amendments recommended by the Bylaws Committee. The Board spent an entire day discussing these amendments to present them to the members. The Board also agreed on a proposal for a name change. (These changes are described in the Bylaws Report printed in the 2007 May/June issue of the Zarja and are not included in the minutes of the meeting.) Other Important Issues Discussed by the Board: • Due to time constraints the Calendar Raffle for 2007 will be referred to the new board in July 2007. • Consideration is being given to restructuring the National Board. If the recommended amendments are approved some changes should occur and the Office Manager job description should be reviewed by the new board. Before adjourning the meeting President Ferrante asked for closing statements from the outgoing officers. All were in agreement that they will truly miss each other and were happy with what they fell they have accomplished and contributed to the organization. The closing prayer was given by President Ferrante and the meeting adjourned at 1:00 pm Saturday, February 24, 2007. Submitted by: Patricia Figurowski, Recording Secretary Kathleen Ferrante, National President Secretary Review Resolved that the Board has reviewed the Investment Policy of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America dated February 1, 2003 and hereby adopts, ratifies and confirms the Investment Policy of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America attached hereto and shall be effective as of March 1, 2003 and renewed for 2007. Vote: 3-0 (6-0) Resolved, that the Board has reviewed and assessed the technical investment and administrative capabilities and expertise of the First Midwest Bank and hereby determines that it is qualified to execute the Investment Policy of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America dated February 1, 2003. Vote: 3-0 (6-0) As required, First Midwest Bank has provided information for the time period January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2006. All investments are within the guidelines authorized by the Board of Directors of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America under the investment policy dated March 1, 2003 Summary of Investments Market Value % of Total Cash & Equivalent $ 18,670.02 2.7% Fixed Income $522,575.75 76.3% Equities $144.132.16 21.0% Total $690,156.16 100.00% Our market value of equity investment exceeds the allowable percentage per 1LCS 215 and our investment guideline. From a cost basis, we are within guidelines. Good faith efforts need to take place to meet the 20% equity position. Cash and Equivalents currently exceed the cash needs of the organization and meet current reserve requirements for unpaid claims. For the first half of 2007 no bonds are maturing. The new board must review and recommend investment guidance for the $25,000 par value bond from Southwestern Bell that is maturing November, 2007. In addition, the board agrees to continue the $3,000.00 per month transfer to meet the cash needs through July, 2007. Future needs should be reviewed by the new board of directors to be elected later this year. Vote: 3-0 (6-0) Resolved that the Board has reviewed the summary investment reports for the 4th quarter 2006 and determined that all the Society’s investments have been made in compliance with the SWU standards, limitations, and investment guidelines as specified in Investment Policy of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. Vote: 3-0 (6-0) Note: Jonita Ruth absent during review. Slovenian Women’s Union of America - Trust Investment Summary Q1 2006 Q2 2006 Q3 2006 Q4 2006 Total Investment Balance, Prior Quarter $692,434.99 $687,700.91 $674,040.90 $684,352.59 Dividend Income $3,193.01 $3,718.89 $3,317.47 $4,172.20 $14,401.57 Interest Income $5,613.76 $2,846.88 $6,348.14 $2,331.25 $17,140.03 Realized Gains/Losses $3.749.12 $(16.037.501 $(1.532.06) $2.881.90 $(10.938.54) Total Income $12,555.89 $(9,471.73) $8,133.55 $9,385.35 $20,603.06 Distributions: Monthly ($3,000/mo) Fees to First Midwest $(9,000.00) $(1.721.95'! $(9,000.00) $(1.700.83) $(9,000.00) $(1.686.32) $(9,000.00) $(1.716.07) $(36,000.00) $(6.825.17) Total Disbursements $(10,721.95) $(10,700.83) $(10,686.32) $(10,716.07) $(42,825.17) Accrued Income $(1,315.45) $1,092.32 $(1,943.65) $935.30 $(1,231.48) Unrealized Income $(5,252.57) $5,852.70 $14,808.11 $6,198.99 $21,607.23 Purchased Income $(432.47) $(432.47) Investment Balance, End of Quarter $687,700.91 $674,040.90 $684,352.59 $690,156.16 Financial Review Attached is the unaudited financial report for the year ending December 31,2006. Prior to this date, I have included supporting checking account detail and year-end reconciliation for the auditor’s review. Cash in checking (book) at year end was $ (511.39). The balance is understated as it does not reflect reconciling items of $4,102.85 that will be added back in January of 2007. In addition, there are uncashed death payments of $3,616 that will be sent to unclaimed property after one last effort to contact the beneficiaries directly. Cash in primary savings/cookbook (book) at year end was $18,198.64. In addition, a new checking account was created with a balance of $3,065.80 to pay for convention expenses. The account was funded with a transfer of $5,000 from savings. Payments from the account included a deposit to Starved Rock Hotel ($1,900) and check fees ($34.20). The attached sheet shows Trust summary transaction detail for the year 2006. Note the amount of dividend, interest income, and gain on sale of assets. The balance of $690,156.16 reflects only a slightly lower balance than previous year. The monthly withdrawal continues at $3,000 per month to meet the operating needs of the organization. You may wish to consider delaying this withdrawal to mid year to take advantage of potential investment earnings as short term cash needs are met through the assessment process. No major withdrawals were made in 2006. The quarterly management fee to First Midwest Bank is 1% of quarter ending balance. The following board resolutions need to be reviewed: Review and adoption of the investment policy Review of 2006 investment transactions Review of First Midwest Bank’s administration capabilities Source/Use of Funds Attached is a report on the source and use of funds. Please note this report excludes information on the investments previously reviewed. Our primary sources of funds are assessments, investment income, and donations. We thank everyone for the additional funds to support our organization. This year, grant money ($2,631.85) was received to pay for the 4 color cover of the Zarja anniversary issue. Our primary use of funds is to pay for printing, salaries, taxes, travel, insurance, and additional administrative help. As you can see, Zarja printing is our largest expense. Lower printing costs are offset by higher salary expense as Debbie Pohar was added late last year to improve the design and transfer that obligation from Croatian Franciscan Press to this organization. Other expenses are similar to prior years with a couple of exceptions. Corinne Leskovar is included in the administration expense. This is partially offset by lower office expense attributable to Zarja. Also, lonita’s salary was increased to reflect minimum wage for an 80 hour month. One additional payment was made to each in 2007 to correct an oversight on my part in March, 2006. Year-end Major Liabilities 2006 Property taxes $2,500 Mortality Reserve $238,099.40 Miscellaneous These figures different slightly from the annual filing. Adjustments will be made to reflect depreciation and trust activities. Report presented by Bill Prokup Bonnie J. Prokup, National Secretary 2006 Financial Report Sources of Funds Insurance $2,978.00 Zarja Printing $42,279.86 Convention Fund $10,828.50 Maint. $318.50 Printing - Other $2,382.49 Donations - Zarja $9,002.00 Misc. Exp $588.59 Repairs - Equip $285.00 Dues $71,828.27 Office Supplies - Home Office $369.04 Scholarship reimbursement $130.00 Interest Income $246.70 Office Supplies - Nat’l Secy $185.26 BOD Travel $3,210.92 Trans trust fund $36,000.00 Off Supp - Other $901.72 Property Taxes $2,498.86 Misc. Inc - Other $2,787.84 Office Expense - Nat’l Secry $1,200.00 Telephone $1,858.74 Rental $5,500.00 Office Expense - Zarja $50.00 City Services $51.04 ZARJA Ads $1,050.00 Officer Stipend $50.00 Elect $1,044.29 Total Income $137,243.31 Federal With. $122.10 Gas $3,405.32 FUTA $230.80 Water $403.57 Uses of Funds Gross Wages $39,880.00 Total Expense $129,767.98 Admin Stipend $4,600.00 MEDICARE $3,096.72 Advert $449.40 SU1 $470.18 Net $7,475.33 Bank $763.87 per diem $50.00 Convention Fund/Cookbooks $2,100.00 Zarja Editor Postage $379.58 Amounts in Trust and related activity Death Benefit $12,299.99 Postage - Other $1,134.14 reported separately. Proposed Amendments to Bylaws YOU spoke/WE listened, pull up a chair and start reading...It’s not as boring as you think ENJOY! The sections of the bylaws that are listed below are printed with the exact wording of the amendments that are suggested for change. Only the particular section and individual sentences considered for change are printed and in most cases a change is underlined. There are a few deletions of sections and also new bylaw provisions included, such as naming a parliamentary authority source. A few sections would be renumbered and some position responsibilities altered if approved. Unfortunately, space limitations do not allow for the printing of current bylaws for comparison. Members are encouraged to refer to the blue 2003 Bylaws booklets in the possession of Branch Presidents and Secretaries. For a personal copy complete current bylaws may also be read and/or printed (16 pages) from the SWUA web site -www.swua.org - and all members are encouraged to do so. These suggestions were submitted by members and reviewed by the Bylaws Committee, the SWUA Board of Directors and National Officers. Collectively, hundreds of hours were spent by all of us in reading, listening, discussing, writing and rewriting the proposed changes. The more we studied the bylaws the more obsolete and problematic sections were found. For example, our current bylaws have no mention of the positions for Corresponding and Recording Secretary at the National or Branch levels. Bylaws establish the real framework for any organization, like the Constitution is to the USA. We took our job very seriously and hope the membership will be as excited as we are with some of the proposed changes - especially a long overdue restructuring of our National Board for a more even distribution of responsibilities. This task was a huge undertaking and every effort was made to consider every suggestion submitted. The National Board unanimously agreed upon many of the proposed changes and some received a majority vote to at least present them to the membership and let the delegate/members decide. Some proposals were determined through compromise. Branches are encouraged to review, seek clarification and discuss the proposed bylaws amendments. There will be a separate Bylaw Review Session at the Convention to fully explain the rationale behind the proposals, to answer questions and for discussion before the official voting. All Convention attendees are urged to attend this important gathering. Only delegates at the June 2007 National Convention may vote on bylaws changes. Parliamentary procedure dictates that due to Scope of Notice requirements re bylaws amendments only the exact written proposals previously received by all members may be voted upon at the Convention. They will pass or fail as printed in our official publication - Zarja - the Dawn, barring any printing errors. Thank you to all of the members who submitted their thoughts and suggestions over the last several months. Members with questions pertaining to the proposed bylaws are encouraged to submit them to me at denisepbartlett@wi.rr.com, especially if clarification and rationale is needed prior to branch discussions. You may also call me at (414) 327-4990 in Milwaukee, WI. Denise Bartlett, Bylaws Committee Chairperson NOTE: The two topics of most interest to our members were addressed by compromise - 1) SWUA originated as a burial society with insurance policies still held by 2/3 of our members which prompted the proposed name selection and 2) our Declaration of Principle (page 10) regarding SWUA’s “belief in and commitment to Christian principles and the United States’ concepts of freedom and democracy” remains untouched while proposing the deletion of the religious requirement from SWUA’s purpose (pages 3 and 11) which causes restrictions for membership conflicting with “freedom and democracy.” YOU spoke and WE listened! Please refer to the CONSTITUTION, BYLAWS and REGULATIONS of the SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION of AMERICA adopted June 13 - 14, 2003. (blue booklet) ARTICLES of INCORPORATION (pages 1-6) ARTICLE I (page 1) The name of this association shall be: Slovenian Society of America. The name translated in the Slovenian language is: Slovenska Zveza v Ameriki. ARTICLE II (page 3) The purposes for which the Slovenian Women’s Union of America is formed are: a) To unite persons of Slovenian ancestry or other descent and their families who are of good character. d) To establish a Burial Fund, as permitted by the laws of the State of Illinois and the Bylaws of this association, from which a sum not to exceed three hundred dollars ($300.00) is paid to the beneficiary of members enrolled prior to January 1, 2000. ARTICLE III (page 3) The management of the association is vested in a Board of Directors who are elected at the National Convention of the association for a four-year term as provided in the Bylaws. ARTICLE IV (page 4-5) This body shall be composed of the members of the Board of Directors and delegates elected by the individual branches, as provided in the Bylaws. In the interval between National Conventions, and when the affairs of the association so demand, the powers of this body may be exercised by the Board of Directors upon the majority consent of the Board or when authorized by a general vote of the membership, called and held in accordance with the Bylaws of this association. GLAVNI NAMEN (page 9) Slovenke, širom Združenih Držav Amerike, smo se združile v organizacijo z imenom: Slovenska Zveza v Ameriki. Naš osnovni namen je ohranjati in širiti Slovenske kultume-narodne vrednote in verske vrednote. CONSTITUTION, BYLAWS and REGULATIONS (pages 10-55) ARTICLE 1 (page 10) Name and Location 1.01 The name of this organization is the Slovenian Society of America, or as abbreviated, S.S.A. Translated into the Slovenian language, the name is Slovenska Zveza v Ameriki, or as abbreviated, S.Z.A. 1.02 The principal office of this association will be located in the State of Illinois. ARTICLE II (page 10-11) Formation, Purposes and Governing Laws 2.03 a) Same as ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION - ARTICLE II a) - (page 3) 2.04 Mutual ideals and understanding shall govern all practices and procedures. ARTICLE III (pages 12-16) Membership 3.02 Any individual, whether of Slovenian or other descent, who subscribes to the purposes and bylaws of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, may become a member of this association. 3.03 The Slovenian Women’s Union will have five classes of members. The designations of and the qualifications for membership in these classes are as follows: a) Adult Class A: Valid for members who joined under the age of 66 and before January 1, 1996. b) Adult Class B: Valid for members between 18 and 65 years of age who joined between January 1, 1996 and December 31, 1999. c) Junior Class J: Valid for children and young adults up to age 18 years who joined before January 1, 2000. d) Junior Class X: Valid for children and young adults up to age 18 years who joined since January 1, 2000. e) Social Class: Valid for members 66 years of age and above who joined on or after January 1, 1988 and also for those members 18 years of age and above who joined since January 1, 2000. 3.09 A member who joined prior to January 01, 2000 with a burial insurance policy benefit who does not pay her/his full assessment in a given year nor is reinstated that same year may join as a new member at a later date without a burial insurance policy benefit. ARTICLE IV (pages 16-20) National Convention 4.02 Two-thirds of all eligible convention delegates must be present at the business meeting in order to constitute a quorum. 4.03 The National President and Vice President of Outreach shall preside over the convention. 4.05 Amendments of the association’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws must be approved by a two-thirds majority of the eligible convention delegates. 4.06 Resolutions and motions of branches requesting amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws must be presented to the Board of Directors no later than six (6) months in advance of the National Convention to allow for Board review and distribution to all members through the official publication, Zarja- the Dawn. 4.09 Any Adult Class member is eligible to be a delegate or alternate to the National Convention if she/he is at least 18 years of age and a member in good standing. She/He must also be a member for at least one year and must have attended the majority of meetings of her/his branch during the year prior to the convention as verified by branch records. 4.12 Delegates and alternates to the National Convention will be elected by individual branches at their branch meetings in the year preceding the National Convention. Delegates and alternates’ names shall be submitted to the National Convention Credentials Committee at least 60 days prior to the National Convention. In case of unforeseen conflict/emergency, the alternate delegate becomes the primary delegate. If that person cannot serve, the branch shall elect a substitute delegate in a timely manner. Elections may be by secret ballot if any member so requests. 4.13 Delegate credentials shall be prepared and signed by the President, Recording Secretary and Treasurer presiding at the election of delegates of the branch. ARTICLE V (pages 20-23) Board of Directors 5.02 The Board of Directors of the association will consist of seven official members. The official Boards’ members shall include the National President, as Chairman; the National Vice President of Outreach; the National Vice President of the Home Office; the National Vice President of Culture and Heritage; the National Vice President of Marketing and Fund Raising; the National Corresponding/Recording Secretary; and the National Treasurer. 5.03 Board members shall be adult members of the association and may serve for a maximum of two (2) terms, a term consisting of four (4) years each. 5.08 When a vacancy occurs on the Board of Directors, the Board shall have the authority by a two-thirds majority vote to fill the position from among the members of the association. 5.09 If a Board member should neglect her/his official duties, violate the Bylaws or act dishonestly, the Board shall have the right to remove the member from her/his office by a special trial. The National President will preside at such trials, unless she/he is the accused, in which case the following order of responsibility will be followed: National Vice President of Outreach, followed by National Vice President of the Home Office; followed by National Vice President of Culture and Heritage, followed by National Vice President of Marketing and Fund-Raising. ARTICLE VI (pages 24-25) Committees 6.01 (Delete current section re Executive Committee.) (Current 6.04 becomes 6.01) The Scholarship Program Director/Committee Chairperson is appointed by the Board of Directors. 6.02 (Delete current section rc Executive Committee.)(Current 6.05 becomes 6.02) An individual may receive more than one SWUA scholarship. 6.03 (Delete current section re Executive Committee.) Members of the National Convention Credentials Committee are selected each National Convention year by the host branch(es) to serve for the duration of the National Convention. The Convention Credentials Committees’ responsibilities to be determined by the National Convention Chairperson(s). ARTICLE VII (pages 26-35) National Officers 7.01 The National Officers of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America will consist of the following personnel: The seven members of the Board of Directors of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, namely, the National President, National Vice President of Outreach, National Vice President of the Home Office, National Vice President of Culture and Heritage, National Vice President of Marketing and Fund-Raising, National Corresponding/Recording Secretary and National Treasurer and the Regional Presidents. Members of the Board of Directors will be elected at each National Convention and may serve in their individual positions for a maximum of two (2) terms, a term consisting of four (4) years each. In addition, National Officers, namely, the Director of Membership, the Director of Special Projects, the Scholarship Program Director , the Heritage Museum Director and the Editor of Zarja - the Dawn , may be appointed by majority decision of the Board of Directors. 7.02 The National President will be the chief executive officer of the association and will, subject to the control of the Board of Directors, supervise and control the affairs of the association. By virtue of her/his office, the National Conventions and all meetings of the Board of Directors or directorial committees, she/he shall have the authority to call meetings of the Board of Directors and to sign all official association papers and documents, as may be required. 7.05 The National Vice President of Outreach will perform all duties and exercise all powers when the President is absent or otherwise unable to act. She/He will assist the National President in presiding over National Conventions, attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and perform such other duties as may be prescribed from time to time by the Board of Directors and the National President. The Vice-President of Outreach will have the same qualifications as the National President. In the event that the office of National President should become vacant, the Vice-President of Outreach will succeed to the position. 7.06 (Delete current section re National Secretary) The National Vice President of Outreach will oversee and be responsible for the following areas: publication of the Zarja - the Dawn, along with the Zarja Editor; maintaining and updating of the official web site, along with the Webmaster; production of the On-Line Newsletter, along with the On-Line Newsletter Editor; and maintaining the Scholarship Program, working with the Scholarship Program Director. 7.07 (Delete current section re National Secretary) The National Vice President of the Home Office will be the custodian of the official documents and records of the association. She/He will maintain a strict account of the transactions of the association, and, subject to the direction of the Board of Directors, will allocate all accumulated interest to the association’s funds. In addition, the Vice President of the Home Office will give all notices as are required by law or by these Bylaws and, generally, will perform all duties incident to the office of Vice President of the Home Office and such other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Board of Directors and the National President. 7.08 (Delete current section re National Secretary) The National Vice President of the Home Office shall have knowledge of accounting and record keeping. To allow her/him to fulfill her/his association duties the Vice-President of the Home Office shall not hold an executive office in a branch, which would conflict with such duties. 7.09 (Delete current section rc National Secretary) The National Vice President of the Home Office on behalf of the Board of Directors, will accept new members and branches into the association; accept petitions for admissions and Bylaws; issue yearly assessment invoices to all members; record all membership transactions and maintain a list of individual branches according to number and date of organization. 7.10 (Move current section re National Treasurer to 7.16) The National Vice President of Culture and Heritage shall have the duty to awaken the consciousness of our members to their cultural heritage and to promote activities which will relate to or reflect upon the contributions of Slovenians to the American way of life. She/He shall be engaged in on-going interpretive research and development that identifies Slovenian culture and heritage to the membership, the general public and specifically to and for children. 7.11 (Move current section re National Treasurer to 7.17) The National Vice President of Culture and Heritage shall oversee the operation of the Heritage Museum and that museum standards are maintained. She/He shall direct the acquisition and exhibition of collections, promote fundraising, procure grants, and shall communicate with the membership through the official publication, Zarja - the Dawn. 7.12 (Move current section re National Treasurer to 7.18) The National Vice President of Marketing and Fund-Raising will direct all aspects pertaining to the creation of marketing techniques to benefit and expand the membership of SWUA. The Vice-President of Marketing and Fundraising will be responsible to develop public relations, media and press opportunities; and develop ongoing communication with the Editors of Zarja - the Dawn, the On-Line Newsletter and SWUA’s Webmaster. 7.13 (Move current section re National Auditors to 7.19) The National Vice President of Marketing and Fund Raising shall develop and manage fundraising activities; write grant proposals; develop volunteer networks and cultivate strategic planning as directed by the National President and National Board of Directors 7.14 (Move current section re National Auditors to 7.20) The National Corresponding / Recording Secretary shall work with the National President to prepare and distribute agendas for meetings of the Board of Directors. The Corresponding/Recording Secretary shall handle the general correspondence of the Board of Directors as directed by the National President. 7.15 (Move current section re the Editor to 7.21) The National Corresponding/Recording Secretary shall record, maintain and distribute minutes of all meetings ofthe Board of Directors as directed by the National President. 7.16 (Move current section re Editor to 7.22) The National Treasurer will act as a financial liaison between the National Board of Directors and the branches. She/He will assist the Vice President of the Home Office in matters pertinent to assessments and perform her/his duties as required and assigned by the Board of Directors. 7.17 (Move current section re Regional Presidents to 7.23) She/He will sign all checks presented to her/him by the Vice President of the Home Office, and she will deposit all bonds, investment papers and documents pertaining to the funds of the association in a safety deposit box located in a bank approved by the Board of Directors. She/He will have access to the safety deposit box only when accompanied by the National President or the Vice President of the Home Office. 7.18 Becomes Current Section 7.12 re National Treasurer (Move current section re Regional Presidents to 7.24) 7.19 b) (Current section 7.13 b) re National Auditors) To certify to the Board of Directors, the National Conventions and the members, through the official publication, Zarja - the Dawn, that they have performed their annual and periodic examinations of the books, accounts, records and investments maintained on behalf of the association by the National President, National Vice President of the Home Office, National Vice President of Culture and Heritage, National Treasurer, Scholarship Program Director and Heritage Museum Director. 7.20 (Current section 7.14 re National Auditors) They will be appointed by the Board of Directors after the National Convention for a limit of two (2) terms of four (4) years each. 7.21 (Current section 7.15) The Editor shall communicate and distribute a newsworthy publication to promote the Slovenian- American culture and heritage among all association members and seek to aid youthful members in their intellectual and cultural development. 7.22 (Current section 7.16) The Editor of Zarja - the Dawn will be selected by the Board of Directors, shall be an adult member of the association and shall work with the Vice President of Outreach in communicating with SWUA’s membership. 7.23 (Current section 7.17) Regional Presidents shall strive to attend one (1) meeting of individual branches within their jurisdiction each year. 7.24 Current Section 7.18 re Regional Presidents 7.25 Current section 7.19 re Regional Presidents 7.26 (Current section 7.20) The Scholarship Program Director is appointed by the Board of Directors and shall chair the Scholarship Program Committee. 7.27 (Current section 7.21 re Director of Membership) The Director of Membership is appointed by the Board of Directors, shall be an adult member, and shall have the duty to promote a building membership campaign on an annual basis as approved and directed by the National President and the National Board of Directors. 7.28 (Current section 7.22 re Director of Special Projects) The Director of Special Projects is appointed by the Board of Directors, shall be an adult member, and shall have the duty to promote and organize special projects and programs as approved and directed by the National President and National Board of Directors. 7.29 (Current section 7.23 re Cultural and Heritage Director) The Heritage Museum Director is appointed by the Board of Directors, shall be an adult member, shall oversee day-to-day operations of the Heritage Museum and ensure that Museum standards are maintained as approved and directed by the Vice President of Culture and Heritage and the National Board of Directors. 7.30 Current section 7.24 re Spiritual Director 7.31 A Webmaster may be appointed by the Board of Directors to be responsible for all technical aspects and general maintenance of the SWUA Web site as approved and directed by the National President and the National Vice President of Outreach. 7.32 An On-Line Newsletter Editor may be appointed by the Board of Directors to be responsible for providing a forum for the membership to communicate via computer items of interest on related Slovenian topics as approved and directed by the National President and the Vice President of Outreach. 7.33 National Officers, whether elected or appointed, may assist each other with their respective position responsibilities. ARTICLE VI11 Initiative and Referendum 8.04 The Corresponding Secretary shall forward the proposal to every member of the Board of Directors. ARTICLE IX (pages 38-42) Assessments, Investments Income and Disbursements 9.01 a) (Current section 9.01 re yearly assessment) 9.01 b) A lifetime assessment (one time per lifetime) is $500.00. A lifetime membership is guaranteed for as long as SWUA is in existence. (Subject to approval by the State of Illinois - Department of Insurance) 9.04 The Vice President of the Home Office, subject to the supervision ofthe Board of Directors, shall invest the funds in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois, the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of the association. 9.08 Deceased members shall be cared for as follows: a) The members shall honor and pray at the interment of its deceased members if so requested or permitted by the deceased’s family. 9.08 (1) Class A: $ 100.00 for a deceased member. Class A membership is valid before January 1, 1996. 9.08 (2) Class B: For deceased members in Class B membership: (current five (5) increments) 9.09 If upon the death of a member in Class A, it is found that such member upon admission to the association was older than the age limit for admission according to the Bylaws, the association shall not pay any amount for the benefit of such member, but shall, however, refund to the beneficiaries of the deceased all monies which she/he may have paid as a member into the mortuary fund. 9.10 The outgoing Board of Directors shall determine the salaries and stipends to be paid to the incoming Board of Directors. 9.11 The bonding of certain National Officers, for faithful performance of their duties shall be as follows: a) Members of the Board of Directors - $5000.00 each. b) Scholarship Program Director - $1000.00 c) Heritage Museum Director - $1000.00 ARTICLE X (pages 43-45) Official Publication 10.01 For the purposes of progress and better understanding of the aims of the SWUA, this association shall issue a publication called Zarja - the Dawn. Copies published shall be sent to each family of the association in the Adult Classes. Family members who hold an adult membership may receive individual copies upon request. 10.03 Resolution documents sent by branches will be published only if first approved by a majority of the members attending a branch meeting at which one/fourth of the branch’s membership is present. 10.06 Zarja - the Dawn shall be published in English. 10.07 The publication shall be published in a printing shop. The Editor of the Zarja - the Dawn shall seek estimates for printing of the official publication. The concern sending the most acceptable bid shall be awarded a contract for a specified period as determined by the Board of Directors. 10.08 merged with 10.07 10.09 becomes 10.08 ARTICLE Xll (page 47) Regional Conventions 12.01 To create additional interest, sociability and to foster new ideas benefiting the welfare of the organization, Regional Conventions will be held once a year in each region. ARTICLE Xlll (pages 48-49) Branch Meetings 13.07 If a member of the Board of Directors attends a branch meeting on official business, the branch shall allow her/him to examine any of its records and hear any matter brought before the members assembled. ARTICLE XIV (pages 50-53) Branch Officers 14.01 Each branch shall elect from its Adult class members the following officers: (3) Corresponding Secretary. Branches may also elect a (7) Sergeant at Arms (8) Program Chairman (9) Historian / Heritage Officer and (10) Youth Officer. 14.05 (current Secretary duties deleted) The Corresponding Secretary shall work with the branch President to prepare and distribute agendas and notices for branch meetings. She/He shall handle the general correspondence of the branch as directed by the Branch President. 14.06 (current Secretary duties deleted) The Corresponding Secretary shall give prompt notice to the home office of the death of a branch member. When a benefit is claimed, she shall insure that all documents required by the association, such as Death Certificates, are submitted to the National Vice President of the Home Office or her/his designee. 14.07 The Recording Secretary shall record, maintain and distribute minutes of the branch meetings as directed by the Branch President. She/He shall keep a record of the names and addresses of all branch members. 14.08 The Treasurer shall receive all branch monies collected for all purposes and shall maintain records of branch receipts and expenditures. The Treasurer shall deposit all branch funds in suitable accounts maintained at a bank designated by the Branch Officers. When approved by the President she/he shall also pay all legitimate obligations of the branch. All records and accounts held by the Treasurer shall be submitted to the auditors for audit. 14.09 The Treasurer shall provide to the branch accurate monthly and semiannual reports of its expenditures and receipts. The Treasurer shall be held accountable for the branch financial income and shall perform any other related duties as may be assigned to her/him by the Branch President. 14.12 The Sergeant at Arms shall preserve and maintain order at branch meetings, keep attendance records and welcome new members, as well as assist at branch functions. 14.18 Branches may set term limits for their Officers consistent with the term limits of National Officers. 14.19 Branch Officers may assist each other with their position responsibilities. ARTICLE XV Heritage Museum 15.02 Overall direction for the Heritage Museum will be determined by the Vice President of Culture and Heritage and the National Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may appoint a Heritage Museum Director to oversee day to day operations. 15.04 The Vice President of Culture and Heritage will prepare and submit, along with the Heritage Museum Director, a report and an annual operating budget for approval by the National Board of Directors. ARTICLE XVII Parliamentary Authority 17.01 It is recommended that National Board meetings and Branch meetings be conducted according to procedures outlined in the latest edition of ROBERT’S RULES of ORDER. All National Officers and Branch Officers shall familiarize themselves with proper parliamentary procedure. INDEX (pages 57-60) Corrections made as necessary. First Midwest Bank Joliet, IL (815) 727-5222 FDK f=> 25th NATIONAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE June 21 - 24, 2007, Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, IL Thursday. June 21 Bylaw Review Session 3:00pm - 5:00pm Wine Tasting Extravaganza in the Gostilna 7:00pm - 9:00pm Camp Heritage for kids 6:00pm - 9:00pm h’ridav. June 22 25th National Convention Opening 8:00am Camp Heritage 8:00am - 4:00pm SWUA Golf Outing 10:00am A Slovenian Veranda Party 7:00pm Saturday. June 23 25th National Convention 8:00am Camp Heritage 8:00am - 4:00pm Slovenian Expo 1:00pm - 5:00pm Potica Contest Baggo Tournament 3:00pm - 5:00pm Group picture 5:30pm 80th Anniversary Gala 6:00pm Sunday. June 24 Slovenian Polka Mass 10:00am OnuoiiiL' Hospitality Room Pin Trading Silent Auction Scholarship News To all of YOU, our supporters during the past months and years, a most grateful THANK YOU! CONTRIBUTIONS are NEEDED and appreciated! We would like to financially assist more of the outstanding applicants who apply for awards. Please contact Marge Church at vemec@earthl ink, net or Mary Turvey at mturvev@aol.com for further information. SWUA Scholarship Program 52 Oakridge Drive Marquette, Michigan 49855 Meet Mary Turvey and Marge Church at the Convention and Expo. They will be on hand to discuss the Scholarship Program. See You at The Expo! Zimmer FUNERAL HOMES Mark Zimmer, Funeral Director mark@zimmerfuneralhome.com 805 North 6th Street, Sheboygan, WI 53081 (920) 457-7012 - Fax: (920) 457-7013 W 2132 Ganton Rd., Sheboygan, WI 53083 (920) 565-2331 www.Zimmerfuneralhome.com Scholarship Donations $5.00 Donation Branch 23, Ely, MN (+Betty Zupec) Dolores Maki (+Mary Palcher Labernik) Dolores Maki (+Betty Zupec) $20.00 Donation Sandra Farrell (+Edward P. Kumick) $25.00 Donation Virginia Ivancich (+Elizabeth Zupec) Ivancich Inc. Ely Dairy Queen (+Elizabeth Zupec) Ivancich Inc. Ely Dairy Queen (+Agnes Zaverl) $30.00 Donation Jocelyn Baker (+her husband, Frank Baker) $40.00 Donation Branch 20, Joliet, IL (+Ann Savol, Anna Kobe, Marla Allen and Francis Kimak) $305.00 Donation Christmas Party Gift from Branch 3, Pueblo, CO members: Steffie Barnett, Katherine Chrisman, Margaret Cullen, Andrea, Francesca and Gianna De Garbo, Mary “Mitizi” Drobnick, Lillian Galich, Mary A. Gersick, Agnes Glavich, Eileen Kaplan, Anna Knific, Katherine Kochevar, Bernadette Krašovec, Bernice Krašovec, Josephine Krasovic, Christine (Starcevich) Mascarenas, Elsie Medonich, Frances Ondovchik, Pauline Pauchick, Eileen Perez, Josephine Perko, Helen Perse, Florence Snider, Bernadette (Starcevich) Spinuzzi, Kathleen Starcevich, Mildred Stofac, Dorothy Zakrasek and Rose Zupančič. Linda’s Lenses Photography will be on hand for the 2007 SWUA National Convention! We’ll be covering most events, and be at the 80th Gala on Saturday night for formal portraits - we will capture forever your memories! After the last drop in the Gostilna has been drunk -Camp Heritage has closed -the last “FORE” has been shouted -the last bean bag has been tossed -the Singing Slovenes have sung their last note -the 2007 National Convention/SWUA 80"' Gala has come to a close -you will be able to relive this memorable event for years to come with a DVD of these highlights. Photography All pictures will be viewable on our website, where you can order reprints online. An order form will also be available Saturday night. www.LindasLenses.com 440.570.3983 Linda@LindasLenses.com Men in a SWUA World Slovenian Wedding Tradition 99 Steps to a Long and Happy Marriage When I was told that this issue was going to be about weddings, I really didn’t know where to start. So 1 figured a good place to start was with what a man’s role is in a traditional wedding in Slovenia. My inquiries led me to Bled Island for a traditional ceremony. Well, 1 found out that the church to be wed in is St. Mary’s and that it is traditional that after the ceremony the couple gets to ring the church bell. This is done to signify longevity and happiness in the marriage. So, if you’re like me about now you’re thinking, well, if I go this route I need to get in a bit better shape to make it up all 99 steps to the top of the hill where the church is! Well, fellas, you are wrong, you need to get in a lot better shape! Because part of the tradition is that you have to carry your new bride-to-be up the steps, that’s right, you have to carry her the 99 steps up to the church to get married and then, you get to ring the bell! But, once you get through all the bell ringing it’s home free! You’ll probably follow all this with a traditional party with great food and dancing. The only drawback to an American getting married in Slovenia is that there is a mountain of paper work. So, if you are planning on a Slovenian wedding, two words of advice, first hire someone over there to help you and second start the paperwork as early as possible. Let’s move on to another sacred event, the SWUA National Convention and most importantly my golf outing. Let me update you on where we’re at, we will be playing a 4 person best ball scramble format and 1 have a whole 9-hole course reserved and the carts are ready to go. That’s right the whole course is ours and we are going to break out the grills and cook up something good and we’ll have plenty of cold beverages (both alcoholic and non) to keep us hydrated. So get signed up now because space is limited and it’s going to be a fun time. If you have any questions or suggestions on the tourney contact me at doomsport@aol.com. I ’d be happy to read them. Well that's all for now and as always may good luck be yours. - Don Baldin Meet Don at the Convention and ExpO. Don will be on hand to greet his Zarja readers that cannot participate in the Golf Outing. See You at The Expo! 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Contact the Home Office at 1-800-843-5755 for a FREE Personal Health Record and to learn more about our new Simplus program. PcrixiiMl Health Record St. Mary's, Bled Island Genealogy by George Electronic Genealogy Using the Internet Mary Ann (Artac) Urban is a genealogist who specializes in researching the people who settled in Willard, WI, and Waukegan, 1L. She has two web sites that contain pictures and history of these areas and is the coordinator of monthly breakfasts held in Waukegan for people of Slovenian ethnicity. Besides being a mother and wife, she also assists many people who are researching their family’s history. Over the last few months Mary and I have been corresponding about electronic genealogy. The results of this correspondence will become a primer for genealogists beginning and continuing their research using the Internet. It is my intent to include all the Internet links that I have listed in the Zarja on our SWUA web site. Mary feels that people do not exhaust the resources in the United States before they move on to seeking information from Slovenia. Mary’s favorite starting points are searches on Google, Ellis Island, Steve Morse One Step and Family Search. These are great for searching surnames social security numbers and places. To determine if others are already researching your surname or location use GeneaNet. For mapping and finding places she uses ShtetlSeeker. To obtain obituaries she used Suburban Chicago News. It is amazing today what information is available to researchers by subscription to Ancestry.com. Other major organizations are One Great Family and Genealogy.com. She believes strongly that all surname inquiries be listed on message boards as this usually provides significant information. The surname boards are on Genforum and Ancestry for Slovenia research. There is a message board for those with Gottscheer roots and a message board on the SWUA web site. Also there is a new web site in Slovenia for queries. Unfortunately the SRD genealogy web site in Slovenia was a hit with major spamming and is not in operation anymore, this is the Genealogy and Heraldry web site which has not been updated since 2000. The Slovenian Genealogy Society Int. has a user group available through membership in their organization called the SIRL. All of the message boards require registration. Mary specializes in researching families from the Ljubljana Diocese, and has done some research on families in Maribor. She also researches families in Prussia, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania and Hungary that are connected to her family. She is a contributor to the Clark County web pages for Hendren, Foster and Mead Townships, which reflect Visit Mary at either of her two web sites: http://groups.insn.com/genealogv2000/whatsnew.msnw or http://groups.vahoo.com/eroup/genealogy2002/ Search Tools: www.google.comwww.ellisisland.org www.stevemorse.org www.familvsearch.org Mapping: www.iewishgen.org/ShtetlSeeker/LocTown.asp Obituaries: www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/obits Regional: http://wvls.lib.wi.us/ClarkCountv/ Message Boards: http://www.swua.org/forum/ http://genforuni.genealogv.com/slovenia/ http://boards.rootsweb.com/ localities.eeurope.slovenia.general/mb.ashx http://z3.invisionfree.com/Rodoslovie/index.php (SRD English board) http://hwk.best.vwh.net/gbb/ (Gottscheer) http://groups.vahoo.com/group/SIRL/ (requires SGSI membership) Subscription Fee: www.ancestrv.comwww.genealogy.com www.onegreatfamilv.com The village of Willard Wisconsin is celebrating its 100th birthday. For information on the centennial see http:// wvls.lib.wi.us/ClarkCountv/hendren/community/ Centennial.htm I hope to see many of you at the convention in June. Adijo - George Plautz C 'N TEZAK FUNERAL HOME “First in Service Since 1908" Licensed Producer: Richard K.. Tezak (815) 722-0524 American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSK.J) 1211 Plainfield Road Joliet, IL 60435 Slovenian ethnicity. This web site provides historical information on the people and cemeteries of the George Plautz region. Willard, Wl was an early hub for Slovenians who tired of working in the mines or steel plants. Family Connected „ Roots, Slovene-style by Karen J. Engelking Mimika Kodrič, Pečke št. 10. That’s all I had. Just a name and address on a letter sent to my mother in 1950. The letter inside was written in Slovenian, so we didn’t know what it said. Mom never learned the language even though both of her parents emigrated from Slovenia many years ago. She did give me an old photo of the Jurij and Marija Kodrič family, her cousins from Pečke, taken in 1948. It depicted five children with three adults, standing in a dirt road, some of them with bare feet. A ctually, I had much more than just an address and / \ a photo - I had a life-long desire to see my -Z. ^grandparents’ homeland. As my interest in genealogy grew, I learned more and more about Slovenia. I learned about its natural beauty and pristine forests, rolling hills and mountains and fertile river valleys. All beckoning me to come. The driving force that actually got me on an airplane to Ljubljana was my 10th wedding anniversary in June and a desire to celebrate it in a special way. Little did my husband and 1 know what a joyous celebration it would become on July 2,2005. We were excited to be exploring Europe and the magic of walking through centuries of history and culture. The guided tour we signed up with was hosted by Joe and Nancy Novak from Cleveland, Ohio. Joe’s talent on the button box was a wonderful introduction to Slovenian polkas. He kept us entertained on the bus, on boats, in restaurants, you name it! Most of our group was from the Cleveland area and/or related to each other in some way. The two of us are from Milwaukee and many in the group seemed curious about how we found out about this group tour. My mother shares with me the Prosveta newspaper she receives as a member of the Milwaukee SNPJ Lodge. In it, I saw an ad for Kollander World Travel’s trips to Slovenia. And that’s how it started. Once we signed up for the tour and examined the itinerary closely, I realized that we would have a free day when in Maribor, a city that’s close to both Pečke and Gornji Grad, my grandfather and grandmother’s birthplaces. Once we arrived in Slovenia, we asked the tour guide, Brane Vidmar, if it would be possible to rent a car and hire an interpreter for the day so we could visit Pečke. It was only 35 kilometers, about 30 minutes, away from Maribor-perhaps we could! We continued enjoying every place we visited - Lake Bled, Portorož, tourist farms, Mount Vogel, Vintgar Gorge, wineries, gostilnas.... Beauty everywhere - and breathtakingly so! My heart was so joyous, so full of love for this country and its warm welcome to me. How could anything get better? Yet everyday, in the back of my mind lay the fervent hope that 1 could find my long-lost family. Finally, our free day arrived. We shared the cost of a car with another couple who were also looking for relatives in a different town. We also shared Brane, who agreed to be our interpreter for half that day. We agreed to do our venture to Pečke in the afternoon, so our morning was relaxed. Well, as relaxed as one could be with all the excitement of being so close to something from one’s dreams! Brane picked us up with the rented car and we headed down the highway. Rolling hills passed us by in a blur. My thoughts were racing - what if they’re all gone? What if they’ve moved somewhere else? What if? In a very short 30 minutes, we arrived at the edge of town and pulled over to the side of the road, next to the yellow and black sign that said Pečke. Using the list of names and phone numbers we culled from the local phone directory, Brane called the number associated with #10. The town is so small, it doesn’t have street names, just house numbers. A woman answered the phone. Yes, she knew the Kodrič family, she is the widow of a Kodrič. Brane explains to her who I am and why I am here. The woman gives him directions to her home and off we go! We pull up to a house, humble but neat, with chickens in the yard and an old dog barking from a fenced in area. A middle-aged woman greets us - and I’m in tears. 1 can’t believe this is actually happening to me! It’s surreal and dreamlike and I can’t feel my feet touching the ground. Brane must do all the talking and Majda Kodrič welcomes me into her home. She wants me to sit down and feel welcome. She wants to give me refreshments but I’m too upset to swallow. 1 sit down and feel like fainting. As 1 catch my breath, she shares stories with Brane and brings out photos of her late husband, my grandparents’ nephew Jože. Yes, she remembers hearing about Franc and his brother Anton going to America. Yes, she knows about Ruth and Mary, Franc’s children. During our visit, Majda’s daughter has called her aunt Ana to come over and see this woman from America. A few minutes later, Ana (Kodrič) Erker and her son Igor come in the door to greet me. Ana looks so much like my mother and aunt, I’m flabbergasted! She embraces me with tears in her eyes and Brane attempts to translate her warm greetings to me. 1 brought along scanned copies of the old photos of their family, along with photos of my family. When I showed the photo of the farm family with barefoot children, Ana points out the little blond-haired girl standing next to her father’s chair to tell me that’s her in the photo. I bring out a copy of the letter from Mimika to tell them how I found them after all these years. As we sit in Majda’s living room, we are all overwhelmed with strong emotions - taking turns speaking and crying. This is so unbelievable to be sitting among my Slovenian cousins! Ana and Igor suggest we visit her brother Johan and her sister Mimika in neighboring villages. Before I know it, we’re on a whirlwind afternoon of visits to Johan Kodrič in nearby Fram and Mimika (Kodrič) Pahič in Kočno. At each household, we were welcomed with a feast of native meats and cheeses along with fresh bread and the ubiquitous Maribor regional wine. Much of that day is such a blur, but luckily I remembered to bring my camera and took many family portraits that day. In that short visit, I was able to reconnect with my mother’s cousins and my generation of cousins, who all speak English rather well. We visited my grandfather’s church in Pečke, as well as the graveyard in this small farming village. I felt the presence of my ancestors in that tiny village, realizing that the rolling hills surrounding the cluster of houses are the same hills that they looked upon more than half a century ago, perhaps even longer. A wealth of genealogical information was now within reach. I learned that my mother actually had six cousins in this family and I have 12 cousins in my generation. I continue to correspond with my cousin Igor via email. And I met through the mail, my cousins in Vienna, Austria. We now exchange Christmas cards and greetings each year. I hope my story will inspire you to take a chance and look up your relatives in Slovenia. Although you probably shouldn’t just appear on their doorstep on a Saturday afternoon like I did! In retrospect, it’s amazing that many of them were at home and welcomed us warmly without hesitation. But this experience has fueled my passion for learning more about my Slovenian roots. NOTE: Franc Kodrič (Frank Kodrich) arrived in the United States on November 12, 1913, emigrating from Pečke aboard the ship Olympic, leaving from Southampton, England, destined for a brother-in-law in Detroit. Marija Žehelj, emigrated around 1916. They met in Milwaukee and married in 1919. Karen Engelking is a SWUA member. Left to right: Helena Kodrič, her son Jani, my husband Ken Luepke, me, mom s cousin Johan Kodrič, my cousin Igor Erker and his mother Ana Kodrič Erker. We were visiting Johan s home and enjoyed refreshments in their outdoor gazebo in the backyard. Meet George at the Convention and ExpO. George will be on hand to greet his Zarja readers and will participate C V f Tli TT ynAl in a lecture on AH Things Slovenian. ^ee *0U at 1 "e The Path Taken.. •Dopoljena pot @ One Hundred Years Ago, a Wedding Lizzie Novak and Joseph Zupančič, Married 7/17/1907 Joseph came bearing a gift of multi colored jellybeans in a brown paper bag! Lizzie Novak: DOB, November 19,1887 Lawrence and Mary Šinkovec Novak were a poor peasant couple from Kruka Rebar, Slovenia, a village near the Croatian/Slovenian boarder. Simon Šinkovec, Mary’s father, had 3 wives each of whom died in childbirth. Subsequently, much was placed upon Mary’s shoulders. Mary was very young when she married Lawrence Novak. Together, they raised eight children, five of whom immigrated to America. A daughter, Lizzie Novak, was their sixth child. (In their village the family was called Learnardcic, as the name Novak was very common.) In 1907,20 year-old Lizzie Novak left for America, never to see her parents again. She joined her sisters and brother, John who had come to America earlier and were already married with families. On board ship, Lizzie was placed on the middle deck in what was called “second class”. It was less congested than the lower deck. Passengers had the freedom to walk on the open deck and breathe the fresh ocean air. The lower deck had little access to fresh air and their vast numbers made for a difficult trip. Added to this misery was that the trip took over one month and many succumbed to seasickness. Lizzie however, faired well on the trip. Each person had their names and destinations pinned to their clothing and each was responsible for handling their personal luggage. Lizzie’s personal belongings along with gifts for her sisters and brother filled the camel stream trunk* to capacity. Those less fortunate had their personal items wrapped in rags or newspapers. Interpreters were on board, as few passengers could speak English. During the voyage, a ship porter gave Lizzie a banana. Lizzie had never seen a banana and because she did not understand what the porter was saying, she wrapped the banana in an old newspaper and threw it under a deck chair. Thinking she had dropped a personal item, another passenger “rescued” the package. When debarking the ship at Ellis Island, Lizzie intentionally left the wrapped banana behind. Again, the package was “rescued” by a worker. After all those attempts to rid her self of this black smelly thing, Lizzie assumed it must be “worth keeping “. She arrived in middle -America with the wrapped banana tucked under her arm. Her sister’s had a great laugh, and this story continues to be repeated to this day. A new woman in the village invariably caused much head turning. Lizzie Novak, a petite blond who never weighed over 100 pounds in her life immediately had many pursuers. One miner offered her a box of lovely chocolate candies which she promptly tossed thinking they were spoiled. Lizzie became most impressed with a tall, thin, shy, dark haired miner named Joseph Zupančič who along with his father, John, was residing at the boardinghouse. Joseph came bearing a gift of multi colored jellybeans in a brown paper bag! Joseph Zupančič: DOB January 1882 Joseph Zupančič was born in Žužemberk, Slovenia. Joseph only knew he was born in late January 1882, he chose the date January 15h. Joseph was the second child of John and Theresa Kachancic Zupančič. Both his grandfather and father were millers. In the mid 1880’s his father John left for America in search of work; young Joseph became the man of the household, supporting his mother and siblings after his father’s departure. He never attended school, he never learned to read and write. Joseph signed his named with an X until the day he died. Lizzie joined her sisters Rose and Johanna, in the village of Rutland, Illinois, 100 southwest of Chicago. Together the three Novak sisters ran a boarding house and their Lizzie Novak and Joseph Zupančič, husbands and married July 17, 1907 Rutland, Illinois brother worked in the coalmines. Running a boarding house meant cooking the meals, packing lunch pails, washing miner’s clothing and providing a clean bed for each miner. Boardinghouse living was the closest substitute for family Music and storytelling took place around the dining room table. As many did not speak English, it was a place where interpretations and advice were given. It also provided each miner with a mailing address. In 1900, at the age of 18, his father sent him a steamship ticket for America. The ulterior motive was to escape joining the Austrian army under the command of Franc Joseph. Just before boarding the ship in France, Joseph was caught and jailed. In humiliation he was sent back to his homeland with a large yellow “X” painted on the only suit coat he owned. But his ticket was not wasted. His sister Mary used his ticket and joined her father in Illinois. One year later, Joseph was smuggled through Italy. He sailed for America never to return to Slovenia, joining his father John in Rutland, Illinois. Joseph found work in the coalmines. Though work in the coalmine was back breaking and dirty, enough was earned to regularly send money to the family in Slovenia. The Wedding: July 17, 1907 Lizzie Novak and Joseph Zupančič were married in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Rutland, Illinois. Lizzie was dressed in typical Slovenian wedding attire. A reception was held on the boardinghouse lawn where tables were laden with Slovenian foods and drink and music filled the air! Fifty years later, a large celebration reminiscent of their wedding day occurred on the lawn of their home. The Family: On April 22,1908, Joseph Jr. was bom. In the next several years, the young family moved around the state of Illinois in search of work in the coalmines. Five more children were bom in the tiny mining town of Standard, Illinois; Joseph Jr. (1908-1985), Elizabeth (1909-1990), Frances (1912-1999), Angela (1914-1917), John A (1915- ) and Agnes (1919-1997). Lizzie was a wiry sort and set in her ways. Her word was law; even her children were in awe. Joseph on the other hand was quiet and hard working. He smoked cigarettes and an occasional cigar and did enjoy an occasional drink of wine, beer or whisky. Both Lizzie and Joseph attended many festivities and in turn entertained endlessly. Many gatherings and all holidays were held at their home. There was never too many, they always managed to find another chair. On February 6, 1914, John Zupančič died at the home of his son of “black lung disease”, the so-called “coal miners asthma”. He left a widow Theresa, and two children in Slovenia. John was buried in the Catholic cemetery in an unmarked grave, as Joseph could not afford a marker. Three years later 3 year old Angela was buried next to her grandfather. The death of Angela was a heart breaking experience, one of which Lizzie refused to talk about. To this day, the two graves remain unknown. In 1917 trouble was brewing in the coalmines and strikes were commonplace. Mines began shutting down, and families were struggling to get by. Joseph began working as a farm hand during the strikes. It was then he saw the advantages of clean air and healthy living. He found a house in the country and began farming, never to return to the coalmines. The children attended a one-room school not far down the dirt road. Because the name Zupančič was so prevalent in the mines, the name was shortened to Zupan. Later a schoolteacher convinced the family that Zupan should be Americanized. Today the name Supan prevails. Over time, Lizzie and Joseph bought cows for milking and began selling milk for profit. They raised chickens and pigs and worked a large vegetable garden for the family table. Workhorses were used for fieldwork. Lizzie did all the cooking on an old cook stove that burned wood or corncobs. A vineyard was always present on the farm. Joseph had his homemade wine to serve his guests. As was the custom brought from the homeland, the couple had a small glass of wine daily with their evening meal. Lizzie and Joseph opened their home to all in need. When Joseph’s sister died in Coal City, Illinois, 8 children were left motherless and poor. When Lizzie’s oldest sister Mary abandoned her husband and children, never to be heard of again, Lizzie and Joseph took in these children each summer. What happy time for these orphans! In the fall of the year, the children returned home to attend school until the next summer. But before leaving Lizzie and Joseph would send along as much food as possible and during the year made trips carrying fresh meat and canned goods for these orphaned families. (These children never forgot the generosity of Aunt Lizzie and Uncle Joseph and as adults visited them often.) HOLIDAY TRADITIONS: Holidays were spent at Lizzie and Joseph’s home. On Easter Sunday, the blessed food, consisting of klobase, fresh shaved horseradish, potica and sliced boiled eggs were served prior to Easter dinner. In Slovenia it was customarily served as an Easter Sunday breakfast. (Today the Supan family continues this tradition. Men in the family are given the privilege of shaving the fresh horseradish.) Lizzie and her favorite cow Adults and babes were seated at the dining room table and children had their table in the kitchen. Platters Joseph on his tractor o f S1 o v e n i a n klobase, fried chicken, Lizzie’s special pork roast, apple strudel, potica and fruit pies filled the table. This assortment of foods was prepared from preserves and dry goods stored in the kitchen špiza (Slovenian/pantry) some of which were purchased from the Jewel Tea man*, (see separate article) After dinner, there was a race to the bam in search of the baby chicks or a new calf or lamb. There was the saddle horse, “R.B.” to ride and soft hay in the haylofts to play in. The tall old Eucalyptus tree (which still stands today) held a swing that was always in use. The boys would walk along the board on the back edge of the old picket fence, to see who would fall off first. The girls with their new Easter dresses chatted on the front porch, waiting for the adults to finish visiting over coffee. After dinner, the entire family would gather outdoors to play a game Joseph had played as a child in Slovenia. This game required 15 dozen boiled eggs. Each person would get one colored Easter egg. The children would approach an adult. The adult produced a coin and would throw the coin forcefully at the egg, attempting to imbed the coin into the boiled egg. If the coin stuck into the egg, the adult owned the egg. If the coin bounced off the egg and onto the ground the child kept the egg and the coin. In turn, the child could try his or her luck at another person’s egg with the coin they had won. There were messy hands and skinned knuckles, and egg salad was served for days after. But Grandpa Joseph had the best time of all. There was always a raw colored egg that Grandpa seemed to get. When someone broke the “raw egg” it was a hilarious event for the children. Another game brought from Slovenia was the “tap tap game”. One would tap the tip of a colored Easter egg with another person’s egg. The egg that broke first had to be given to the person with the unbroken egg. Each child looked forward to their Easter basket filled with candies, colored eggs and a chocolate bunny from Joseph and Lizzie. This must have cost them a bundle because there were at least 25 grandchildren at that time. Christmas was another wonderful event. Prior to Christmas, poticas were baked using the walnuts Joseph had cleaned and stored in glass jars. Apple strudel was made in huge batches. The large fresh Christmas tree with old-fashioned ornaments, large colored lights and a glimmering star was a magical sight. A nativity scene in a nearby corner completed the Christmas scene. Treasured gifts for each child from Lizzie and Joseph were under the tree. The old player piano in the living room got a workout. The children would sing and pump for hours. No one ever told them it was too loud or that it was time to stop. The Later Years: In 1955 Lizzie and Joseph retired from the farm and purchased a country home with a few acres. They continued to have a cow and a few chickens along with a “his and hers” garden. Joseph planted by the signs of the moon and Lizzie began planting potatoes on Good Friday. Even though it snowed or the cold winds blew, she planted those potatoes. Each dug the garden by hand well into their late 80’s. Joseph never learned to drive a car or truck, but he did drive his Allis-Chalmers tractor in the fields doing his fanning in Eden Township, south of Cedar Point, Illinois. He also had a four-row com planter that was considered large in those days and he was so very proud of the mbber tires on his tractor. Agnes, their youngest daughter never married and stayed with and cared for her parents and was the family chauffer. When Lizzie took off her apron and put on her little black hat it meant they were going somewhere special. Joseph’s visiting attire was his bib overalls, his worn suit coat and a white shirt. The Franciscan Monastery in Lemont, Illinois was one of their favorite places to visit. They would rise very early and tend to the farm chores. With a picnic lunch of fresh fried chicken they arrived just in time for the 11 a.m. Sunday outdoor mass. Joining them were Lizzie’s sisters and their families from Cleveland, Ohio. By late afternoon they were on their way home to attend to the cows! Nancy’s Memories: Nancy Supan Henkel has fond memories of her grandparents. Etched in family memory is Lizzie with hands in a prayer position, eyes looking upward, and uttering “Jožeš Maria”. This happened whenever anything out of the ordinary occurred such as summer storms, or when a visitor happened to stop by unannounced. One could count on Lizzie going into her praying position, uttering “Jožeš Maria”. Then you could find her out in the yard running after the choicest chicken. In no time the chicken was plucked and frying in the pan. One day Nancy came home from her grandparents with an orphaned baby lamb, which she had named “Bebec”(Slovenian/baby). She became the surrogate mother, bottle-feeding Bebec until weaned. Bebec spent the nights in the bam but was Nancy’s constant companion during the day. Sneaking into the house, Nancy and Bebec would race up the stairs to Nancy’s bedroom, where Bebec proceeded to jump onto her bed. All was well until Mother heard his “baaahing”. Nancy had “Bebec” for years! Nancy remembers Joseph as a gentle man, he believed in church and family and he loved country life. He gardened all his life and was a good steward of the earth. In 1970, granddaughter Nancy Supan Henkel and her husband Bill purchased the farm in Eden Township. Joseph died quietly in his sleep on April 14, 1970. He and Lizzie had been married for 63 years. {Joseph would be proud to know that his great grandson Douglas Henkel and his father Bill Henkel now farm the soil as he once did.) Lizzie remained healthy up to the last few years of her life. In her late 80’s, she and daughter Agnes survived a tornado that completely destroyed their country home. They took up residence in another rural house, so Lizzie could garden. Today the Supan family carries on Slovenian traditions brought by Joseph and Lizzie Novak Zupančič (Zupan, Supan) from Slovenia. Nancy Supan Henkel treasures Lizzie’s camelback steam trunk and the family potica and strudel recipes that are now well over 100 years old. To quote Nancy Supan Henkel: “I was privileged to have four Slovenian grandparents. Each couple celebrated many years of marriage and lived long lives well into their late eighty’s and Lizzie into her 90’s with good health. I was privileged to have them all at my wedding.” The Jewel Tea Man The Home Delivery Truck with Coffee, Tea, Flour, Spices and Other Dry Goods Items Children would be the first to spot the Jewel Tea man coming down the road in his delivery truck. Such excitement! These were the days when many families lived in semi-rural areas and when women did not drive. From this delivery truck came coffee, tea, flour, spices and other dry good items. Such were some of the items stored in Lizzie's Spiza/pantry. The pantry was also known as the Hoosier. The pantry had a special bin for flour. A door would tilt forward, and flour poured into the bin. At the bottom of the bin was a sifter with a handle. By turning the handle, a measured amount of flour could be removed. As an added bonus, the Jewel Tea Company gave out premiums to thank customers for their patronage. Popular premium items were dishes, the Autumn Leaf pattern made by the Hall China Company being the most famous. Each season Jewel Tea Company would discontinue old patterns and add new patterns so as to keep customer interest peaked. If a family consumed enough coffee, tea, etc, they could accumulate pieces as they were issued. Most likely most families never accumulated a complete collection. Frank Vernon Skiff founded Jewel in Chicago, Illinois in 1899 as a door-to door delivery service using a horse and buggy. By the 40’s and 50’s however, many people were living in newly formed suburbs and women were now part of the work force. The Jewel Tea store became part of the grocery store scene. In the photo are Lizzie Novak Supan’s dishes that were purchased from the Jewel man. Sadly, Lizzie’s home and most of her belongings were destroyed in a tornado. Lizzie’s pattern is listed as Homer Laughlin VSA E50N8. The dishes are white, with pink and blue flowers, and a bit of rose, green and yellow for added color. Anyone knowing the name of this pattern, please contact Nancy Henkel. This would definitely add to the family memories...... Lizzie's dishes from the Jewel man In her 90’s Lizzie was hospitalized for a few days. She found it quite amazing that the hospital remained open around the clock with doctors and nurses available. The last two L toR: Frank and Aloisa Kernz, and a half years were Nancy and BiU H™kel, Lizzie and spent in Care Inn Joseph Supan, Nov 30, 1963 Nursing home. Son, Joseph and daughter, Agnes along with extended family were her constant visitors. On February 23, 1980, Lizzie Novak Supan died quietly. Heritage News The Slovenian Culinary Society Blood Sausage a New Pin/Charm for 2007 The sausage is printed on metal with an epoxy finish, and is approximately 1 inch in size. The background is a soft white showing a layer of sauerkraut, topped with delicious blood sausage. A silver ring encircles the pin. The pin accentuates the “richness and wholesomeness” of this Slovenian delicacy and the gold border gives evidence to its distinction as a traditional food. The printed lapel pin has a military clutch; the charm has a lanyard that attaches to a bracelet or a necklace. Slovenian Language Lesson: Blood Sausage: Krvavica (singular), Krvavice (plural) Blood Sausage and sauerkraut: Krvavica s kislim zeljem Frank and Debbie Deyak (Branch 23) Ely, MN made the sauerkraut and blood sausage and snapped the photo as well. Volunteering at its best! Place your order by calling the museum 815.727.1926 Price: $10.00+ $1.00 S+H Special 3 pins: Potica, Krofi and Blood Sausage for $25.00 + $2.00 S+H Heritage Donations $100 Patricia Massucci $100 Mary Lou Voelk $50 Albina Skocaj In memory of her deceased mother, Christina Skocaj The ExpO at the National Convention Do take the time to stop by the Slovenian Heritage Museum booth. See for yourself what the scanning is all about. View actual scanned documents on line! View hand written death certificates written in the Slovenian language! Learn how you can have your family story told in Zarja, and then have that same story and family photos placed with your ancestor s documents, to be preserved forever? Or, if you have the computer skills, stop by and render your volunteering services so that our scanning process can be speeded up. We look forward to visiting with you! Documents Scanned Barbara Krall Br. 22 DOD: 09/22/1931 Mary Gloyek Br. 12 DOD: 10/01/1931 Emilia Paskvan Br. 11 DOD: 10/12/1931 Mary Shimetz Br. 28 DOD: 10/22/‘931 Rose Gorsich Br. 20 DOD: 11/10/1931 Rose Sponc Br. 16 DOD: 12/27/1931 Anna Golobic Br. 13 DOD: 12/29/1931 Helen Benetic Br. 26 DOD: 01/01/1932 Frances Vesel Br. 14 DOD: 01/02/1932 Mary Dobrinic Br. 25 DOD: 01/19/1932 Mary Sutej Br. 26 DOD: 01/20/1932 Mary Kopler Br. 16 DOD: 01/28/1932 Lucille Urankar Br. 10 DOD: 02/01/1932 MaryAnzlin Br. 10 DOD: 02/02/1932 Agnes Kocjan Br. 28 DOD: 02/23/1932 Antonia Jerele Br. 10 DOD: 03/10/1932 Hermina Simonič Br. 25 DOD: 03/26/1932 Frances Polis Br. 10 DOD: 04/15/1932 Mary Zunic Br. 26 DOD: 04/15/1932 Mary Novinc Br. 10 DOD: 04/23/1932 Margaret Boldan Br. 10 DOD: 05/15/1932 Christina Janezic Br. 14 DOD: 05/24/1932 Ursula Mervic Br. 11 DOD: 05/28/1932 Anna Žnidaršič Br. 36 DOD: 05/30/1932 Anna Kovacic Br. 16 DOD: 06/07/1932 Mary Cerne Br. 07 DOD: 06/15/1932 Frances Mikolich Br. 23 DOD: 06/20/1932 Agnes Prelesnik Br. 03 DOD: 06/24/1932 Frances Martich Br. 10 DOD: 07/28/1932 Katarina Prebeg Br. 19 DOD: 08/01/1932 Mary Lakota Br. 20 DOD: 08/06/1932 Josephine Peterlin Br. 25 DOD: 08/25/1932 Frances Dremelj Br. 03 DOD: 09/07/1932 Katerina Peshel Br. 11 DOD: 10/18/1932 Mary Ausec Br. 25 DOD: 10/31/1932 Barbara Perusich Br. 28 DOD: 11/23/1932 Mary Mesojedec Br. 03 DOD: 11/23/1932 Barbara Gersetich Br. 36 DOD: 11/24/1932 Anna Kosmach Br. 02 DOD: 12/03/1932 Louise Sebanc Br. 14 DOD: 12/05/1932 Frances Zagar Br. 19 DOD: 12/15/1932 Mary Gremc Br. 14 DOD: 12/17/1932 See You at The Expo! SLOVENIAN CULINARY SOCIETY SLOVENIAN CULINARY SOOETY SWUA Members of the Year 2007 Mary Jo Grabner, Branch 1 Sheboygan, Wisconsin Our 2007 Member of the Year, Mary Jo Grabner, has been a lifelong member of Branch 1 since her birth in 1960 in Sheboygan. Her family includes parents Rogene and the late Anton Grabner, sister, Kathryn Ann, who resides in Colorado and her brother Tom, who lives in Sheboygan. Tom’s teenage daughter, Jamie, is a new SWUA member. Mary Jo fondly remembers participating as a child in the entertainment at SWUA meetings under the guidance and watchful eye of Marie Prisland, founder of SWUA. She is extremely proud of her Slovenian heritage, which she happily shared with us at our 80lh anniversary celebration. As our Vice President for the past two years, her concern and dedication helped increase Branch 1 membership more than any other branch over this period. Mary Jo takes an active role in church and SWUA activities. She is an excellent program moderator, works at Ss. Cyril & Methodius bingo events, participates as lector and distributes communion to homebound parishioners at Momingside Health Center. Mary Jo also has served on the Citywide Planning Committee board. She and her mother are involved in the care of her homebound Frances Yovanovich , Branch 5 Indianapolis, Indiana Frances Yovanovich is a longtime active member of Branch 5. Frances was one of nine children born to Mary and Matthew Milharčič. She was married to Alex Yovanovich for 54 years before his death, and has four children, nine grandchildren, two greatgrandchildren and many nieces and nephews. To know Fran is to love her. Everyone knows her as a kind, considerate, thoughtful, helpful person who always has a smile on her face. For years she and her sister would cook together and help out at the many weddings at Holy Trinity Slovenian Catholic Church in Indianapolis. Fran is also famous for the delicious apple strudels she makes for SWUA and parish gatherings. She is a devoted life-long member of Holy Trinity Church, active in the Altar Society and participates in the parish’s many activities. Her very strong faith has guided her life, and the many people she has touched try to emulate her generosity and follow in her footsteps. This is a very deserving honor for a beautiful person. Virginia Strukel, Branch 12 West Allis, Wisconsin Member of the Year for Branch 12 is Virginia Strukel. She was born in Taylor, Illinois to Slovenian immigrants. She received a 4 year scholarship to the University of Illinois, and upon graduation she trained with Carson Pirie Scott in Chicago, before returning to Springfield, Illinois. Virginia married and moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and became a buyer for Boston Store. She had 2 children, and stayed home for 6 years to raise them. She received her teaching degree and taught in the West Allis, West Milwaukee school district. She was the District Manager for World Book Encyclopedia, and spent the summer in Slovenia learning the language. Virginia is a member of the Slovenian Arts Council, Uspeh Chorus, SNPJ and Badger KSKJ. She is a vestry at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. She was awarded by the “Slovenska izselniška matica” for being an outstanding immigrant. In addition, Virginia prepares the lunches for every meeting, and we are all appreciative of this wonderful gift! aunt, Frances Grabner, another long-time SWUA member. Mary Jo is employed as a chemist with the Kohler Company, which often requires out-of-state travel, but in her free time she enjoys dance/exercise classes and she is a fan of Bruce Springsteen. She even has a dog named “Brucester”! Mary Jo, we salute you for being a friendly, caring, fun-loving, hard-working Slovenian and we will honor you as Member of the Year this May at KC Hall in Sheboygan. cStudktfc Branch 20 has chosen sisters Helen Minnick and Pat Butterbach as Members of the Year. They are daughters of the late Teresa Pasich (SWUA member in 1928) and have been active in Branch 20 for many years. Besides SWUA they also share other common interests. Both are registered nurses, graduating from St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing in Joliet. They are also members of the Crest Hill Library Book Club. Helen is active with the Rialto Theatre in Joliet while Pat is busy with her grandchildren. Pat has been a member of SWUA for many years. She has served as Secretary-Treasurer and co-chaired the spring bake sale. Last year Helen and Pat co-chaired the Christmas Dinner for Branch 20 and were co-hostesses for the monthly meetings. Pat is married to Dick Butterbach. They have three children, Jody, Daniel and Jill and four grandchildren. Helen Minnick chaired the delivery of Easter and Christmas flowers to SWUA shut-in members. Also, she co-chaired flea markets and used clothing sale markets. She is always a dependable participant in the many activities of our branch. She lives in Crest Hill, Illinois with her husband Glenn and their brittany spaniel Brandy. Adele Gensler, Branch 24 LaSalle, Illinois This year’s Member of the Year is Adele Gensler. Adele was born in La Salle to Antonia (Kramarsic) and Frank Jakse, both naturalized citizens from Slovenia. She attended nursing school in Chicago and received her degree from DePaul University, where she met her husband. His work took them to various parts of the Midwest where Adele also worked as a nurse. They became the parents of a daughter and two sons. After the sudden death of her husband, Adele decided to come “home” to care for her 88-year old mother. Adele went to her first SWUA meeting in order to pay her mother’s dues and became a member herself. Shortly thereafter she was elected secretary and held that position for approximately 20 years. Adele has always been a loyal and devoted member and a cheerful and willing helper. She expresses gratitude to her parents for their love and instilling honestly, integrity and values of work. Adele has eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She also had the privilege of visiting the ancestral home in Novo Mesto and learning the Slovenian language. She has been truly blessed with a good life, many friends and the will to follow in her parents’ footsteps and promote her heritage. Ann Mismash, Branch 35 Aurora, Minnesota Branch 35 has chosen Ann Mismash as Member of the Year. She has been a member for twenty-two years and was local secretary for two years. Ann married Frank Mismash in 1940 and had three sons, Francis, Thomas and Allan. She is a retired part-time U.S. postal carrier, a position she held for 18 years. Ann held a number of offices in numerous organizations throughout her years and spent many years as a hospital volunteer and “Happy Quilter”. Today, she belongs to the American Legion Auxiliary, All Slav Club and sings with the Holy Rosary Resurrection Choir. She spends hours knitting and crocheting for organizations that serve the poor. Branch 35 is proud and honored to have a diligent and loyal member in our group. We congratulate you, Ann, and God bless you! Marie T. Stelow, MS, LCPC Individual, Couple, Family Therapy 1000 Essington Road Joliet, IL 60431 Phone: (815) 773-2303 Fax:(815)744-1623 Branch 39 has chosen to honor three faithful SWUA members as our 2007 Members of the Year. We honor Rose Koroshec, Rose Veronick (not pictured) and Josephine (Pep) Kern who chose to maintain their membership in spite of a former inactive branch. How lucky we were to have them join us. Rose Koroshec joined SWUA in 1941, Rose Veronick in 1946 and Pep Kern in 1952. Collectively, these members have 182 years of membership. They have contributed to the success and stability of our present branch and their longevity of membership is truly remarkable. These friends Josephine Kern truly are an inspiration. They promoted their Slovenian heritage and culture by volunteering their skills to make poticas, strudels and sarmas for various church and civic functions. They were instrumental in helping sell many SWUA cookbooks. Rose Ann, Pep and Rose Mary, we salute you and will honor you all as our 2007 members of the year with dinner on May 6th. Congratulations! Sophie Bevsek, Branch 43 Milwaukee, Wisconsin were well known as active participants in Slovenian events, clubs and organizations. She can still be seen at almost all events and is active in several organizations and clubs including SLOGA #1994, SNPJ Lilly Lodge #764 and Slovenian Retirees. Her whole life has revolved around her family and cultural heritage. She has enthusiastically passed Slovenian customs down to her children and grandchildren, such as baking strudels and potica, music and songs (especially Frank’s accordion music) and of course, Slovenian traditions. She has many friends, loves participating in all events, and looks forward to many more years as part of the Slovenian community. Katherine Wallace, Branch 47 Garfield Heights, Ohio Rose Koroshec (right center) with 4 generations of family members Our Member of the Year, Sophie Bevsek, was born in the United States, the youngest of four children to John and Lucija Tevz, both Slovenian immigrants. She married Frank Bevsek in 1941 and they have two children, Dolores and Frank, five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Sophie speaks fluent Slovenian, which makes her trips there comfortable, interactive and pleasurable. She and her late husband Frank Our Member of the Year, Katherine Wallace, affectionately known as Kathy, has been a member of our branch for 37 years, and our Reporter for the past few years. She is the second of five children of George and Elsie Spellacy (our branch Secretary/Treasurer). Her Grandmother, Jennie Gerk was a long time member and president of our branch. She has been married for 33 years to Bruce and has 3 grown children. She is the very proud Grandmother of Rhiannon, 4 '/2 years old. Kathy has always been proud of her heritage. While in high school she was a SWUA debutante in 1970. She has cherished memories of this event. She also assisted in the debutante balls in 1972 and 1974. Her hobbies include crocheting, camping with the family, and spending quality time with Rhiannon. Our branch is happy to honor this most deserving “Member of the Year.” Special thanks to Jennifer Suster Swenson, originally from Euclid, Ohio and now a member of Branch 99 for all your hard work editing our Member of the Year feature. Congratulations to all of our Members of the Year! Ivanka Matic, Branch 50 Euclid, Ohio I Ivanka Matic, Branch 50 is named Member of the Year. Ivanka Matic has lived in ^ Ohio for over 50 years, but v Map?- . her roots are in Slovenia. She was the tenth child in a family of twelve. Between the years 1941 and 1945 she, her parents and five siblings were interred in a German concentration camp. After their release they returned to their homeland. She later met George Matic, whom she married in Zagreb in 1950. In 1956 they came to the United States. George died in 1996 after 46 years of marriage. They have a son, George, Jr. (Sue) and daughter, Vesna, and two grandsons. Ivanka has been a member of Branch 50 for 43 years. Ivanka worked in the St. Vitus neighborhood at a local market as a clerk and spoke Slovenian, Croatian and German, which was an asset to the business. She served as nanny for twenty years for a family with two girls and because of this lifelong bond; they still refer to her as “Grandma”. She was president of St. Vitus Mother’s Club and currently is president of St. Vitus Altar Society. She recruited 75 additional members during her presidency. This group has baked thousands of krofi. She also actively promotes the annual St. Vitus chicken dinner, which continues to be a great success. Ivanka is a member of the St. Clair Pensioners Club and bowls with the KSKJ women’s league. She enjoys annual bus trips to Lemont, Illinois and has been very active in the Bishop Baraga Days and pilgrimages. She and her daughter visited Medjugorje in 2005, and just recently returned from a 10 day pilgrimage to the Shrines of Fatima and Lourdes. Barbara Bruch, Branch 89 Oglesby, Illinois Branch 89 proudly names Barbara Bruch as our 2007 member of the year. Barbara and her husband, Ken, live in Granville, Illinois, and are the proud parents of their daughter, Kitty, who also is a member of Branch 89. Barbara is always ready and willing to help. She is currently the recording secretary and Zarja reporter, and will be this year’s delegate for our branch at the National Convention. We know our branch will be well represented by Barbara’s presence. Her enthusiasm for her Slovenian heritage is contagious. She tells us with great pride of her grandmother’s beautiful flower gardens and the beautiful singing voices of her mother and four aunts. She inherited her grandmother’s love for growing flowers and vegetables and her mother’s love for music. Barbara loves to sing old Slovenian songs and has a beautiful voice, too. Our thanks to Barb for sharing her Slovenian spirit and our congratulations on being the Member of the Year! Maria Vlasic, Branch 99 Lemont, Illinois This award goes to a native Slovenian, one who exuberates the very essence of our culture. Maria Vlasic came to the U.S. from Drasici in 1954 accompanied by her mother, Mary Pecharich, and three of her six siblings. Arriving in Chicago, they settled in with her father, Martin Pecharich. In 1957 she married Stanley Vlasic and resided near St. Stephen Catholic Church. It was important for Marie to be involved in her culture, so she joined Branch 2 with her mother, and initiated the legacy of her infamous bakery. While raising her four sons William, Daniel, Ronald and Michael she still found time to bake for the branch events. In addition to her phenomenal potica and delicious strudel, Maria loves to cook all types of food, which she donates to our events. She enjoys bowling with her husband and bocce ball, where she has brought home championship titles. Her community contributions include decorating the church in Lemont, working the Slovenian Cultural Center Picnic, and making klobase for Koline celebrations. Maria and Stanley, who recently celebrated their 50"' wedding anniversary, now have six grandchildren, who are her pride and joy. Maria, we recognize your selfless acts and caring heart, as you truly represent the qualities of a genuine Slovenian mother. Margaret Ostrowski, Branch 100 Fontana, California Branch 100 announces our 2007 Member of the Year, Margaret Ostrowski. Marge was born in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania to Slovak immigrants. They moved to Cleveland, Ohio when Marge was six years old. Living in the Slovenian community of Cleveland, Marge was exposed to many ethnic activities. She attended picnics, dances and dinners at the SNPJ farm as well as the Slovenian National Home on St. Clair. She truly enjoyed these activities and still remains close to friends made during those years. She married John Ostrowski in Ohio prior to their move to California. They had two daughters and a son, all now, living in Southern B California. John passed away after 44 years of marriage and she now has three grandsons and one great-grandson. Marge found a community of Slovenians who enjoyed dancing, singing and socializing much as she and her girlhood friends did in Cleveland, so in 1988 she joined the SNPJ. She served on the Board of Directors of the Slovene Rest Home Association of Fontana for eleven years, until its dissolution, which included a large donation to the SWUA Scholarship Fund. It was this experience that brought Marge into the SWUA as a true and active member. She could connect with these members and their strong, caring attributes. Marge always has a kind word for everyone, and is the first to greet a newcomer whenever there is a social gathering. Marge says: “My Slovenian Family has been a great and enjoyable part of my life.” Marge Ostrowski is a loving mother and grandmother, a loyal friend and our honored member of the year 2007. We heartily congratulate you! Sandy Herrick, Branch 102 Willard, Wisconsin Our 2007 Member of the Year is Sandy Herrick. She and her husband Gred live on a small farm near Willard and have two wonderful daughters, Charlene (2000 SWUA scholarship winner) and Roberta. She has worked at Electric Cooperative for the past 29 years; she was a Girl Scout leader, religion teacher and became involved in many other activities. She also found time to be the town treasurer for four years. Currently she works with a great group of volunteers from the Willard Historical Society in developing a park to be completed and dedicated at Willard’s 100th celebration this year on July 28th. She is very proud of her volunteer time, instilling family values, helping your neighbor and supporting your community. She has instilled this in her two daughters, and learned everything she knows from her own mother. Ivana (lea) Marie Zebot, Branch 103 Washington, D. Our 2007 Member of the Year is Ivana (lea) Marie Zebot. Ica came to the United States from Slovenia in 1948 and lived in Pittsburgh with her husband and four children until 1958. They moved to Washington, DC, where Ica still lives. She is proud to have been a charter member of Branch 103 since 1965. She has worked on the various SWUA- C. sponsored events such as the annual social/dinner dance, Mother’s Day celebrations, speakers and concerts. She is known for her miske (“little mice”), a smaller version of the delicious krofe. She is always ready and willing to assist in the kitchen to prepare sauerkraut, goulash or some other delectable dish. She has 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren all of who will come to Washington to help her celebrate her 85"' birthday this May. Her warmth, ready smile, and spontaneous embrace endear her to all that meet her. Miro Medved, Branch 109 Twin Cities, Minnesota Our 2007 Member of the Year is Miro Medved. A native bom Slovenian, he came to Minnesota in the 1950’s with his family and settled in Biwabik. He has been the “bonding agent” for our organization this past year by maintaining political connections, promoting Slovenian cultural heritage by hosting four Slovenian sing alongs, increasing our knowledge of Slovenian history and most importantly he epitomizes the “love” in every Slovenian. Miro performed at our Slovenian Cultural Day celebration in February, he and Sing Zhang (Chinese female singer) sang “Gor čez jezero” in Slovenian. Weddings in Slovenia Many weddings in Slovenia are still old-fashioned and traditional, with village participation, church blessing, folk music and dancing and family reunion, but now they are also becoming global! The story we have to tell is just that! T3 the beautiful, quaint town of Škofja Loka recently came a young couple from Belgium. They selected it for their wedding because it is the Sister-City of their home town of Maasmechelen, near Maastricht. They wanted a typical country wedding and thought Škofja Loka would be the perfect place! And it was! The whole town came out and arranged to perform the old wedding traditions well known to that area. (See photos courtesy of Jean and Marija Avsec of Maasmehelen.) On the morning of the wedding, while the whole town watched, the young townsmen made a barrier of the main road into Škofja Loka which the groom could not pass until he chopped some wood - thereby earning money to pay for passage into town and a “tip” for the locals! The groom was then allowed to go to the bride’s home to receive her parents’ blessing and settle on the dowry. Finally, she and her father were taken to the church in a horse drawn wagon. And, much later, the best musicians in town provided folk music for dancing! Many of these old-fashioned wedding traditions are still popular as they represent the centuries-old customs that entwine the strong religious beliefs of the Slovenian people with their beautiful culture, e.g. prayers and songs asking for God’s blessing on the couple, the bride’s clothing and her trousseau being hand-made and styled according to folk tradition, ancient folk songs sung that speak of love, hospitality, the best wine and food served (Parable of the Marriage at Cana), plus engendering the spirit of neighborliness among friends. Most young European couples intent on marriage follow the usual custom of having two marriage ceremonies -European law demands that they must make their vows in a civil court, and if they desire, the sacrament of marriage may follow in church. In Slovenia, most couples choose having both ceremonies so they obey the law and also retain the religious meaning of marriage, making the occasion both solemn and elaborate. Don't think that village weddings are the only kind in Slovenia. Bride s Magazines, just like those in the US, direct the young moderns in the latest bridal fashions and offer all the most elaborate banquet locations, including castles and world-wide honeymoon locations such as Greece, Dubai and Bangkok. - Corinne Leskovar I! 2007 Convention Wedding Dress Exhibit Several of the wedding dresses for the SLOVENIAN EXPO at the 2007 National Convention Featured at the 2007 National Convention will be a special exhibit highlighting beautiful wedding dresses from the past 80 years. The dresses will be on display at the Slovenian Expo on Saturday afternoon, June 23rd. A Slovenian woman wore every dress, some of whom are members of our SWUA! Make sure you stop by this impressive exhibit - it is an event not to be missed! Much time and effort has been put into this display and it will certainly be enjoyed by all. The Cowboy and the Governess During the Great Depression, when jobs were hard to come by, a young man from Illinois drove his Model A Ford to Montana to seek employment. He took Thomas Greeley’s advice, “Go west young man, go west.” He found work on a cattle ranch in the mountains of Montana where he did all the “cowboy” jobs, such as herding cattle, riding on horseback in search of stray cows, eating around a campfire and sleeping under the stars, just like the popular western movies of this time. He stayed on for nearly ten years, sending money to his Slovenian immigrant parents back home when he could, as times were tough and pay was scant. He returned home to visit his parents about every two years. In the summer of 1939, on a visit home, he attended a picnic with friends, where he met a young woman also visiting home from her job as a governess in New York City. She, too, had left the area to find employment a few years before. She was flattered by his good looks, friendliness and very impressed by his cowboy stories and lifestyle. To her he seemed like one of the cowboys right out of the movies. In addition to that, he was also a Slovenian and Catholic. They had several dates during their vacation, and he asked if she would write to him when it was time for them to part. After a time and much letter writing, he proposed marriage and she accepted. They decided to return to their hometown in Illinois to begin a life together. Eunice Kernz and Joseph Supan Jr., were married at St. Constantine’s Catholic Church on April 26, 1941 in Oglesby, Illinois. They enjoyed many years of a happy marriage together and he was always her “cowboy”. Three Brides for Three Brothers Two sisters and their first cousin married three of the hometown boys, the Argubright brothers, who can trace their heritage back to the Revolutionary time and also to William Penn. Josephine Kernz met Eugene Argubright at a town square dance and then went along on a double date with her best friend and his friend. That was the beginning Josephine and Eugene of their courtship. She later Argubright married her sweetheart on October 18, 1941, in St. Constantine’s Catholic Church in Oglesby, Illinois. Marilyn Garden knew George Argubright through family events over the years when she lived next door to the fourth brother, Ed and his family. They began dating after Geoige and Marilyn Argubright George’s return from World War II. They were married on Sweetest Day, October 15, 1955. Her younger sister, Flossy, began noticing Tommy Argubright, who had just returned home from the Korean War, when he came into her father’s neighborhood tavern where she fried chicken on Saturday evenings. One night he offered her a ride home and, as she said, “that was it”. It must have been the cooking. They will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on February 15, 2008. Eunice and Joe April 26. 1941 Tom and Flossy Argubright Slovenian-American Weddings From a Kid’s Point of View. Weddings here in America have always been a big celebration, everyone waits to see the unveiling of the bride and her gorgeous bridesmaid’s dresses, the groom and his men and the exchange of vows and rings. But the reception is what everyone really waits for! Even in Slovenia this applies. Yes, there are the church ceremonies, but the reception is what it’s really all about. In Slovenia, there are usually two different ceremonies. The first, in front of the legal magistrate, which is the “official” binding of the couple. Then there is the church ceremony, where family, friends, and other relatives come to see the adorable couple become one. After the ceremonies, there is a procession of cars and you do not want to get in the way, or you will end up getting very mean glares from those involved in this procession of honking their horns. These traditions continue in America. Then comes the fun part; the reception. At the reception, there are a variety of different festivities going on. Dancing to polka music, traditional food and drinks to share, much toasting of the couple, all prime choices at any reception. I hear detailed, in-depth stories about my Great-Grandma and Grandpa Ribich’s wedding. It lasted 3 days, with the button box player staying the whole time for entertainment. He played through the night, just so the party wouldn’t stop.. .because if he stopped, the party was over. The wedding reception took place at the bride’s parents’ home and the wooden sidewalk from town to their home was the busiest place in town. They had a quiet church ceremony because people did not have vehicles to take them to the out-of-town church. Even though that is only one example of a wedding, there are many other ideas of nice weddings, we (as Slovenians) truly like to have fun; and no matter where we are, we know how to celebrate a traditional Slovenian wedding ceremony. - Bailey Ribich Branch 39 Biwabik, MN Have you ever wondered how fun being in a wedding would be? Getting to wear a special dress chosen by the bride, a new hairstyle done up the day of the wedding, dressing up, make up, new shoes and before you know it you are transformed into a princess. And if you are lucky like me you even got to wear a tiara. There are many jobs in a wedding and so far I’ve only had the role of flower girl. Each time I either walked by myself, with another boy or with girls. But each time I was very careful to make sure I did my job right. I held my head high, walked very straight down the aisle and of course with a huge smile as I went by the pews. The ceremony is of course the most important part but for someone my age the reception is where the fun is. I can’t help but think what a wedding reception is like in Slovenia. Don’t you wonder what types of food they have there? I wonder if its like a wedding in our family where we have home made sausage, potica and of course my favorite flancati, because what would a party be without flancati? Yes, weddings are a big deal in our family and huge weddings for that matter. My parents had 700 guests at their wedding and two bands, an American Band and a Slovenian Band. The dancing never stopped. They had sausage, flancati, potica in addition to a meal already prepared. My mom also flew over to Slovenia a few weeks before the wedding to get gifts for her bridal party. Now that sounds like a wedding I would have loved to have been at. I also heard about my great Aunts’ weddings that lasted a whole weekend on the land my family still owns. Wow, that had to be a great time! When did those people go to bed? One thing 1 like to do at a wedding besides eating flancati is to dance the polka. Have you heard of Moje dekle Polka or Jaz Pa Pojdem Na Gorenjsko Polka? These are two songs I like. Well if not don’t worry, most polkas will get you in the mood to dance. You don’t know how to dance the polka? Don’t worry it can be as easy as grabbing a partner and stepping one-two-three, one-two-three. When you master this try something more sophisticated. But remember -never look at the floor when you dance. Now that you learned how to polka grab a few friends and try it! - Babs - P. S. I cannot wait to see everyone at the Convention, Camp Heritage is going to be great! Slovenian Wedding Tradition The Unveiling Ceremony at Midnight The Slovenian unveiling ceremony, which takes place during the reception, symbolizes a bride’s passage from maidenhood to womanhood. Being a romantic flower of choice and the favorite flower in Slovenia, the red carnation plays a critical role during the unveiling ceremony at a traditional Slovenian wedding. The maid-of-honor removes the bride’s white veil and hands it to the bride’s mother. In its place, she pins a red carnation in the bride’s hair. During this time, the guests sing “Slovensko Dekle” (Slovenian Maiden), a song describing the bright wreath of flowers worn by the bride. Following, the best man replaces the groom’s white boutonniere with a red carnation, while the wedding guests sing “Sinoči je pela (Last Night She Sang), as the bride kisses her parents and the groom kisses his mother and shakes hands with his father. This beautiful ceremony celebrates the couple’s love, the transition from single life to the married life, and the joining of the two families. A toast with red wine concludes this very touching ceremony, leaving many with teary eyes.- Maria Selak Branch 55 Slovensko Dekle Venček na glavi se, Lilija vrtnica, Dokler človenški rod biva, bliska iz kitice, rožic zelenih, slovensko dekle, rožiz zelenih, slovensko dekle. mila ti šmarnice, ličice krasi, Slovenko dekle, ličice krasi, slovensko dekle. po zemlji hod, bode slovelo slovensko dekle, bode slovelo slovensko dekle. Sinoči Je Pela Sinoči je pela, Sinoči je pela, Sinoči je pela, Kot slavček ljubo. Zakaj pa je danes, Zakaj pa je danes, Zakaj pa je danes, Rosno nje oko? Imela je vrtec, Imela je vrtec, Imela je vrtec, Oj vrtec krasan. Ko davi je vstala, Ko davi je vstala, Ko davi je vstala, Bil cvetje obran. Tam doli po polju, Tam doli po polju, Tam doli po polju, Pa stopa nekdo. On cvetje potrgal, On cvetje potrgal. On cvetje potrgal, Zdaj uka glasno. Slovenian Maiden Garlands of roses red, Glow on her lovely head, She’s like a flower, Slovenian maiden. Precious and sweet and pure, Beauty with much allure, That’s what she gives us, Slovenian maiden. Where’er Slovenes on earth, Live, there she’ll show her worth, This pretty girl, this Slovenian maiden. Last Night She Sang Last night she sang like a lovely nightingale Why is it that today her eyes are so misty? She had a blossom a beautiful blossom. When she awoke her blossom was gone Down in the field someone is strolling. He picked the blossom now he is yodeling loudly. Branch Reports Poročila Podružnic Zveza Day/Lemont will be held July 15 - Time to celebrate, renew friendships and create new ones. BRANCH 1 - Sheboygan Wisconsin Congratulations to the editors of Zarja\ Words cannot express the beauty of the March/April issue cover! At our meeting in January announcements were made concerning important upcoming events. We discussed the State Convention, which will be held in Willard, Wisconsin in September 2007. However, the biggest event is the upcoming National Convention this June. Exciting information in the recent issue of Zarja should certainly attract many members. As noted in that edition of Zarja, many important issues will be discussed and voted upon at the convention. Let your officers or delegates know your thoughts and opinions. We held an election of officers for 2007. Our officers are Aggie Gruenke, President; Mary Ann Schellinger, Vice-President; Angie Fritz, Secretary; Kathy Schroeder, Treasurer. Mary Bockin and Ann Stancar agreed to be “Sunshine Ladies”. Thanks to all for you’re continued good work for the SWUA. The program list for 2007 was distributed to all members present. A copy was mailed to all members not present. Anyone who has not received a copy should contact Aggie Gruenke. Dorothy Brezonik, long time member passed away on 3-20-07. Though not of Slovenian heritage, she was deeply involved in all things Slovenian - at SS. Cyril & Methodius Parish as well as the Secretary of our branch for over twenty years. She will be dearly missed. Rest in peace. Blessings, Angie Fritz BRANCH 2 - Chicago, Illinois February meeting was the year of the “Pig” for the Chinese New Year. The Chen’s Restaurant supplied food. We had fun reading the fortune cookies and each received an orange which according to Father Chen, the Chinese believe brings good health to all. In March we celebrated St. Joseph Table and St. Patrick Day. The statue of St. Joseph graced the table and members brought in food. This May we will be honoring 4 generations as “Members of the Year”: Mother - Helen Cukale; Daughter - Lenore Urbanski; Granddaughter- Deanna Swicionis; great granddaughters Brittney and Rachel Swicionis. All are very active with Zveza. We are proud to have them represent Branch 2 and SWUA. Our condolence to the Bemadine Storcz family. May she rest in peace, remember her in your prayers. A surprise 65th birthday for Genevieve Scianna. She was very happy her son, Father Bernard was able to get the following members to spend time in the hospital: Elsie Ciszek. Gen Buol, Ann Bunnetta, Chris Pirman, Tina Stanek, Elsie Statkus, Meta Hanzlik, Tina Schwerrin and Daisy Jean Železnikar. Hope you all are doing great! Have you all made your plans for the Starved Rock Convention? Add an extra day for your trip to visit Chicago. There are so many beautiful sights to see. Please pray for Peace and for the safety of our Service Personnel. Happy Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Daisy BRANCH 5 -Indianapolis, Indiana Spring Greetings to all Branch 5 Members! We made it through a rough winter to arrive at some spectacular Spring weather! My flowers must have loved all that snow, because they are the biggest and brightest I have ever seen! This time of year brings some of my old-fashioned favorites, lilacs, lily of the valley and bleeding heart. I received “starts” of these flowers many years ago from old gardens of family and friends, many of whom are no longer with us, so these flowers are my “Remembrance Garden” and always bring good memories and a smile to me. I would like to thank all of the members and friends who came to our 80th Anniversary Mass and dinner! I was overwhelmed by all of you who came to Holy Trinity for mass and then brought all that wonderful food for us to share. As one member put it.’’pigs feet and red cabbage...does not get much better than that!” I know the HAUGHV1LLE BINGO was a big hit, and it also brought back many memories...Armonoff’s bakery, Swampy’s, Peewee’s Tavern, Minatell’s...these were all familiar names and places when we were growing up...ah, the good old days! I would also like to thank the members who donated to the special collection for the International Trust Fund for Demining and Mine Victims, to sponsor Ambassador Samuel Zbogar in his marathon. We sent him a check for $250 for this worthy endeavor. Will keep you updated on his progress to raise more funds. I hope all of you can join us for our Member of the Year meeting, this year honoring a beautiful lady, Frances Yovanovich. Fran and her family have always been such a part of Holy Trinity and the Slovenian organizations, always helping out and volunteering many hours to help out. Fran always has a smile on her face and is a welcome sight at our meetings. Thank you, Frances! Go out, enjoy the warm spring weather, and remember to keep our sick members in your prayers. Phyllis BRANCH 13 - San Francisco, California I am happy to report that our President Louise Petrusich is doing much better. She is also very proud about the birth of her great grand daughter, Isabella Joy. I spent the most wonderful Christmas I have had since the death of my mother, Frances Chiodo. I spent the day with my family and dear friends. My sons Joe and David used to lived in the house my grandfather Frank Pechavar purchased in 1907, and my mother was born there. 4 generations of the Anna and. Joseph Fabian family at the 5()tli Wedding Anniversary of Stuart and Joann Curtis When Joe married the year before last, he and his wife Amy moved in to this same house. It was wonderful to celebrate in my childhood home again. My daughter-in-law prepared a beautiful dinner. It was topped off with a povitica for dessert. I bought it from Strawberry Hill Povitica on the advice of my cousin Doreen Sustarich. It was delicious and as we ate, we all looked up at a large photograph of my Mother when she appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle many years ago. What a wonderful Christmas. We would like to wish a Happy Birthday to all our member who have birthdays in May and June: Marie Fir, Laura Frick, Sophie Troya, Mary Lovrin Copp, Anna Fabian, Karen Jensen, Ivanka Lukezic, Margaret Simenc Schmidt and Diana Fir Gremett. Remember our Pot Luck Luncheon on June 7th. We hope many of you can come. Barbara Chiodo BRANCH 14- Euclid, Ohio Greetings once again. By the time you receive this copy of Zarja we will have enjoyed our annual Mother’s Day dinner where we honored all mothers. Stana Grill as usual did a great job of organizing, and the cooks served a delicious Slovenian meal, something you don’t get very often any more, even at a Slovenian activity. Where else can you expect to get good Slovenian food except at a Slovenian activity, and yet so many times we are served generic American meals, which we can get anywhere. We have some talented Slovenian cooks in Branch 14. Let’s use them! This is a real pet peeve of mine! The convention is coming up soon, and we hope that all the delegates make decisions that are in the best interest of the entire SWUA. So many times decisions are made, especially by politicians, which reflect only personal ambitions and not the good of the entire group. We have a viable organization with a long history and it is our duty to see that it continues as the founders would have desired. Happy Mother’s Day to all. Patricia Budzilek BRANCH 16 - South Chicago, Illinois We finally had our first meeting of the year. It was great to see all our members. We also welcomed a new member, Betty Krcmaric; she enjoyed playing Bunco after the meeting. I’m sure she will help our Lodge to grow. We recently lost two of our members, Mary Peterko and Ann Lustig. While they were able, they were active members. May they rest in peace; our deepest sympathy goes out to their families. We send our prayers and good wishes for a speedy recovery to Dolores O’Brien who underwent knee surgery on April 3rd. at Ingalls Hospital. We received a Thank You note from Fran Konar’s daughter for remembering her at Christmas time. Fran has moved back from Florida and is living in the Lansing, IL area. Fran is 93 years young, God Bless her. Our member Clara Saviano will be celebrating her 96"' birthday on May 05. Happy Birthday Clara, and we hope your birthday was a happy one. We miss seeing you. Our Luncheon will be on May 10lh at Jovial Club, 9615 Commercial Ave. Gen Marco did such a fabulous job at our Christmas Party, that we convinced her to accept the job of chairman for our Member of the Year Luncheon. It was unanimously voted that we honor all the members. Anyone wishing to join us can call Gen at 773-221-4745 (by May 03) to make a reservation; the amount of the dinner is $16.00. We would like to thank Rose Mary Petrich for accepting the position of Delegate for the Convention. She is the perfect person for the job. BRANCH 20 - Joliet, Illinois I hope you all had a Blessed Easter with your family and friends! Just a few reminders of special events to mark on your calendars, first, is the National Convention to be held at the Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, IL from Thursday June 21st until Sunday June 24Ih. Next is Tuesday May 15th for the Member of the Year Banquet. This year we honor two sisters Helen Minnick and Pat Butterback. Congratulations Ladies!! Scholarships will be awarded at the banquet as well. We had a wonderful turn out at our last meeting held on Tuesday, March 20th at St. Joseph Park. Kim Maris and Terry Crotty hosted the meeting, everyone brought excellent food. Also the entertainment given by the “Koncar Brothers” William and Rob on their button boxes was enjoyed by all. The accumulative prize of $60.00 was not awarded since Linda Whitgrove was absent. The following members of SWUAhave passed away. We extended our condolences and prayers to their families for their loss. Louise Sega (97), Victoria Bernickus (90), Anthony Kodrick (87), Mary Gregorash (92), Sarah Voots (16). Also our sympathy to members who lost a loved one. Eileen Plese (husband), Sue Bartholme (father). You can reach me for any upcoming events that you would like to share by calling me at 815-741-1863 and ask for Pat or via email at my address below. Our last meeting will be in May and we will resume in September. Have a Safe and Happy Summer! Barbara DeLaney delanevprd@sbcglobal.net BRANCH 24 - LaSalle, Illinois Dober dan! Greetings to all during this most beautiful time of year when the earth is waking up and everything begins to grow afresh! We here in the Illinois Valley are very anxious and excited to participate in the 80th anniversary celebration and national convention to be held at Starved Rock Lodge in June. There are a lot of “busy bees” working with the preparations for this “twin” event. Speaking of twins - we are lucky enough to have two sets in our branch - Wendy Lauer and Michelle Pangricic and Florence Smorkel and Anne Matthews. You get a double dose of pleasure knowing these gals. Our March meeting was very productive and enjoyable as we planned for the upcoming convention and May luncheon and also selecting our Member of the Year, Adele Gensler. Fr. Bernard Horzen, O.S.B., will say a Mass for all of our deceased members on Sunday, May 27th at 10 a.m. at St. Thomas More Church in Dalzell. We are hoping for a nice representation of our branch at this Mass. Members also voted upon the issue of eliminating our annual June picnic this year due to the fact that the BRANCH 99 - Lemont, Illinois If April showers bring May flowers what do Mayflowers bring? Well the punch line to the joke is pilgrims, but in this edition of the Dawn, we’re talking about some fresh announcements and exciting news for you all. Firstly, our newest Member of the Year is Maria Vlasic. All are welcome to an 11 a.m. Mass in observance of Marija Pomagaj Sunday, followed by a party for Maria at the Slovenian Cultural Center on May 20th. Everybody is also invited to join in the Potica Contest committee meeting on June 3rd at 12:30 in the library of the SCC. Our branch is in charge of the judging, and will be rewarding a very special prize at the National Convention during the weekend of June 21-24. Good luck to all bakers! We are also proud to announce the promotion of our very own, Dawn Vidmar who is the first woman to be named General Manger for Archdiocesan Publications, one of the highest ranking positions in the archdiocese of Chicago! Congratulations, from one “Dawn” to another. Branch 99 would like to recognize its newest members, Theresa Zibert Johnson, Leo Christensen, Michelle Haklin, Marina Seme, Christina Martinčič and her daughter, Sophie. Remember, recent and returning members, to mark your fall calendars for the Potica culinary class on September 29, and our 4Ih annual Bunco Party on October 28th. Also, a junior excursion is in planning for September, so stay tuned for those dates. Finally, we would like to pray for Martin Stimac who recently passed away. May the month find you happy and healthy! Olivia Schultz BRANCH 103 - Washington D.C. Veronika Stare and team mates at Oakcrest School, McLean, VA, were named regional winners of Toshiba and the National Science Teachers Association’s ExploraVision Challenge. Teamwork and initiative helped them to create the Emergency Heart Attack Notification Treatment System (EHANT). Using a combination of technologies, the EHANT system would detect a heart attack, administer medicine into the bloodstream and report the medical emergency by calling 911. The EHANT system was chosen as the top project from all schools in the mid- Atlantic region. The next phase of the competition involves creating a Web site and a prototype of the EHANT system. The winners of the national finals will be announced in late spring. Veronika, her mother Angela and brother Andrej are members of Branch 103. We are very proud of her achievement and wish her the very best. Mary Terselic BRANCH 108 - Olney, Maryland At our March meeting we welcomed Ms. Marjeta Cedilnik, a native Slovenian and her daughter Zala Weyker as new members. The Member-Get-A-Member Campaign offering low introductory rates certainly was an incentive that led to the final decision to join. We also welcomed and introduced SWUA member Mrs. Helen Sisto, originally from the Chicago area that recently moved to Maryland to be close to family. We discussed our branch participation in the silent auction and inclusion of an ad for the program booklet to help support SWUA’s 80"' Anniversary. The St. Patrick’s Day parade was cancelled due to snow and cold temperatures. Since the inception of our branch, members, families and friends gather together each spring for a Member Appreciation Slovenian Potluck. We honor all members and recognize those who have volunteered their Slovenian spirit in an exemplary way. This year we especially thank members: Stasha Furlan Seaton for showing her father’s film documentary; Lynn Koiner for donating a Kurant doll she purchased in Ptuj, Slovenia; John Klansek, Florence Engelhardt, Fran Hrastar, May Kokal, Nika Kovacic and Bernadette Fitzsimmons for promoting SWUA among their families and acquaintances and successfully recruiting and retaining members. Thanks to May Kokal and Nika Kovacic, mothers and grandmothers who regularly support their daughters Erika K. Roda and Bernadette K. Fitzsimmons along with their children. Through their support and dedication our branch has participated in local community events, and we can count on their artistic talents when needed. May God bless our Branch Treasurer, John Klansek and Branch Secretary, Eveline Lawrence who both have had a challenging year with their health; despite it all they attended meetings on a regular basis. May Marija Pomagaj of Brezje, the Patroness of Slovenia, strengthen them and all members with faith, healing and love. Bernadette Fitzsimmons BRANCH 102 - Willard Wisconsin Vicki Krultz demostrated the art of making apple strudel to about 30 spectators at Holy Family Parish Center in Willard recently. Rose Pakiz A Mother’s Sigh 1 am calling you But on the way to the stars My voice fades I love you But you are not aware of My love Because separating us is Time And the limitless blue sky. Yet you know -I believe-My prayers And you will send them back to me. V zdih materi Kličem te Ali na poti do zvezd Utihne moj glas Ljubim te Toda ti več ne dojemaš Moje ljubezni Ker naju ločuje Čas In neskončna modrina neba. Pa vendar dojemaš -Verujem -Moje molitve In ti mi jih boš vrnila. Radovan Toljanic, Mladika, 2007 One of a Kind Raffle Items 1 - Marija Pomagaj Painting Submitted by Branch 20 - Joliet, IL member Helen Lukancic-Valerugo Gaze upon the Marija Pomagaj. * CP»% One can sense the majestic beauty of Mother and Child. The darker robed figure with hints of mauve set off the glory of their iridescent crowns. And then fix your gaze on their eyes. They say, “peace be with you”. 2 - Baggo Game Set FROM SLOVENIA TO AMERICA hand painted by Debbie Pohar, Branch 24, LaSalle, IL and Zarja Editor. One of American’s hottest games for summer picnics, tailgate parties or just plain fun. On one side it will show a picture of an immigrant family leaving Slovenia and on the other end it will be the family arriving in America. The game comes with a set of beanbags. 3 - Slovenian Doll named “Marie” Designed by volunteers of Branch 1, Sheboygan, WI. In honor of founder, Marie Prisland, we have named this special doll Marie. Marie is dressed in her Narodna Noša (Slovenian costume) in celebration of the 80,h Anniversary of SWUA. Her burgandy taffeta skirt has black glittered swirls. Her blouse and handkerchief are white satin decorated with elegant white lace. Marie’s black and white shawl is perfect for the occasion and around her waist is a black linen apron with exquisite black lace. Marie’s Avba (Hat) is of glittered sequins on black velvet with white satin and lace overlay to complete the Avba. This doll says Happy 80th Anniversary from Branch 1 - Sheboygan. 4 - Oil on canvas reproduction of Lake Bled ca. 1865- 1875 Reproduction donated by Branch 109, Twin Cities, MN member Yul Yost. Read what Yul says about this history of his painting that is being reproduced. At a meeting in 1995for Swedish artists in St. Paul, MN a local art appraiser told me that he just valued a painting of Lake Bled at $15,000. He attributed it to Romanian painter named ALPAR. A/par stands for Alexandro Paraschivescu. Upon seeing the artwork I argued that the appraiser misread the signature which to me looks as “Alpes ”, the French word for “alps ” and that therefore the painting is not attributable to the great painter and thus not worth that money, but I liked it. It was nostalgic for me to see an image of my homeland in Minnesota. In the end I bought it for much less. In 1999, I showed a picture of my Bled to Mr. A. Smrekar, dir of Narodna Galerija in SLO, who immediately noticed that the steeple on the parish church of St. Martin is on the opposite side from where it is now. So, how come? In my booklet from 1908, “Bled nekdaj in sedaj” (Bled once and now) there is a picture of the old church with the steeple as on the painting. The old parish church had its beginning as a chapel in 1004, which was expanded into a church around 1425 and again in 1684. Well indeed, the old Romanesque wm style church was destroyed and in 1903 a new one was built in Gothic style with the steeple built away from the castle. Two SLO art gurus are excited about the Bled painting in USA and think it Jits into 1865-1875 timeline. I do not know who originally owned it much less who painted it. My connections at Baraga’s Archdiocese in Marquette, MI suggested that Slovenian Bishop Baraga may have commissioned it. Baraga was also a painter. He died in 1868. The painting did come from Wisconsin where Bishop Baraga was active. RAFFLE FORM Deadline: June 15,2007 Name: Address: Phone: Make checks payable to SWUA Convention Fund and mail to: Bonnie Prokup 3119 Carrie Street Peru, IL 61354 State: Zip: $ 1.00/chance (indicate which one item you would like to try to win) $ 10.00 for fifteen chances (indicate number of chances per item - total 15 - you can put all 15 chances on one item or divide them up) Maria Pomagaj Painting Baggo Game Set Slovenian Doll Marie Oil Painting of Lake Bled Winner does not need to be present to win if won, shipping charges will apply. NARODNA IN UNIVERZITETNO KNJIŽNICA DS II 54 "882007 Periodicals Postage Paid Joliet, IL 920092904,3 ill have show the kids o our s am make it but wh rafts include; hi ks, painting a beehiv way, to name a It ded the camp and redesig ut Slovenia, partieip , play games and nniversary Gala, word that The Slovenian ■ part of the action. Dr. Bori Mr. Franci Feltrin e coining to work lers will n between th rsday nig ,h Annivi me i m CAMP HERITAGE REGISTRATION Camp fee includes activities, lunch on both days and a gift. S30.00 for SWUA members $35.00 for non-members Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Thursday Friday Saturday Shirt size: EXTENDED HOURS!!! June 21 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm June 22 8:00 am - 4:00 pm June 23 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Birthdate: Parent/Guardian Phone: (________) Email Address: Parent/Guardian Name: Male/Female (Circle One) Mail application to: Kathy Ferrante 178 Gaylord Dr. Munroe Falls, OH 44262