Let Not The Light Of Freedom Be Extinguished! American Home over 100 years of serving American- Slovenians Vol. 108, No. 23 America** Ho“f Ameriška SLOVENIAN MORNINv 89S6-f80Pfr HO Atiti3d 133 y is oiho eeee NOHVIAPI/V NVItiVW USPS 024100 ISSN Number 0164-68X AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, AUGUST 10, 2006 Phone: (216) 431-0628 e-mail: ah@buckeyevveb.com 70t Žbogar speaks at Cleveland City Club On Friday, July 7, Ambassador of Slovenia to the United States, Samuel Žbogar gave a lecture, “The Situation in Southeast Europe. A View from Slovenia ” at the traditional Friday Forum at the prestigious City Club of Cleveland. Before a capacity audience of 280, Ambassador Žbogar began by outlining the significance of 15 years of Slovenian independence and the successful transition of this new country, which lies between Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, and whose small dimensions include impressive variations in culture, language and climate. Ambassador Žbogar outlined the successful entry of Slovenia into the European Union and NATO, her upcoming transition to new currency, the Euro, and most impressively, her scheduled Chairmanship of the European Union in 2008, all of which are proof of Slovenia’s strong leadership and international and domestic Policies. Ambassador Žbogar then addressed the current situation of all the former republics of Yugoslavia. He stressed the leading role that Slovenia plays as a mediator between the various regions °f the former Yugoslavia and the developed Western European countries in the European Union. He discussed the status of each or the republics, paying m°st attention to Serbia and to Bosnia and Hercegovina, wbich, he indicated, was the ni°st complex and problem-atic, for her three ethnic groups continue to struggle with achieving unity in language. Ambassador Žbogar explained the impressively Peaceful secession of Mon-^Uegro and, at the same lnic, warned of the low jPoral which persists in Ser-la, with its growing, unproductive, extreme nationalise Politics and how this does et allow for the recognition such urgent issues as eco-°niic stagnation and the Uestion of the status of Ko-SOvq. Heritage Plaque add°ll0winS his City Club ress. Ambassador Samuel Slovenian Ambassador to the United States Samuel Žbogar (Photo by PHIL HRVATIN) Žbogar unveiled the restored commemorative plaque, Slovenians, Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence, in downtown Cleveland’s Mall B, just across from Cleveland City Hall. The late and famous Slovenian-American Senator, Governor and Mayor, Frank J. Lausche, presented to the United States Congress evidence that Thomas Jefferson, in drafting the Declaration of Independence, borrowed from the writings and ideas of the Dukes of Carinthia, from present day Slovenia. The plaque which had been previously displayed, was recently restored by the Slovenian American Heritage Foundation. Participating in the unveil- ing were also Consul General of Slovenia in Cleveland, Dr. Zvone Žigon, and President of the Slovenian American Heritage Foundation, Anthony Hiti. Also in attendance were Slovenian American Coun-cilmen Michael Polenšek and Joe Cimperman, who both expressed great satisfaction at the vibrant celebration of 15 years of Slovenian independence throughout the month of June. Councilman Polenšek stressed the importance of preserving the office of the Consulate General in Cleveland for the largest Slovenian community outside of Slovenia, is represented in this region of the United States. Newspaper Schedule The Ameriška Domovina (American Home) newspaper will continue publishing three times each month. This month, the next newspaper editions will be dated Aug. 17, and 24. In September the American Home will be printed on Sept. 7, 14, and 21. In October, the American Home will be printed on Oct. 5, 12, and 19. Cleveland Slovenian Days A Treasured Experience Editor, Months ago, when I first uttered the idea of organizing a celebration of the 15th birthday of independent Slovenia, I didn’t dream of the many extraordinary experiences that would unfold. Today we can together proudly conclude that the Slovenian community in Cleveland presented a culturally dynamic and widely communicated celebration of Slovenia’s birthday. Other Slovenian communities throughout the world can look upon you with admiration, as can other ethnic descendants in the United States and all of Mother Slovenia herself. Cleveland Slovenian Days has been a treasured experience. With pride in our hearts we saw the flag of Slovenia fly atop Cleveland City Hall and the beautiful banners, expressing, “Cleveland Celebrates its Slovenian Community,” displayed along the streets of Cleveland. We know with dignified satisfaction that others enjoyed the same sights during their visits to Cleveland - Prime Minister Janez Janša, Foreign Minister Dimitrij Rupel, Senator George Voinovich, and numerous journalists from Slovenia. I heart-fully thank the many Slovenian establishments and organizations, of every shape and form, and each individual who contributed to this massive effort. Above all, I thank the active participants of the Cleveland Slovenian Days Committee and all members of the Slovenian-American media, for your enormous sacrifice and generous contribution of time, material, funding and most importantly, your positive and proactive attitude of willingness and mutual cooperation. Cleveland Slovenian Days was the best possible gift for Slovenia, and for yourselves. With it, you as a community, realized your capacity for wonderfully productive cooperation and mutual understanding. This was a most valuable investment in the future of Slovenians living in the United States of America. Congratulations! —Dr. Zvone Žigon Consul General Slovenian Consul General Dr. Zvone Žigon (Photo by TONY GRDINA) Pristava and KSKJ #226 Picnic Slovenska Pristava and KSKJ Christ the King Lodge #226 will have a matching fund raising picnic on Saturday, August 12th after 5 p.m. Dinner is going to be served by Sofie Mazi and her staff. The price is $13.00 per person and you have to re- serve tickets by calling' Elizabeth Zalik at (440) 537-1941. You will be entertained by ansambel “Tramontana” from Primorsko, Slovenia. We hope to see all members and friends of Pristava on Sat., Aug. 12. -Milan AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, AUGUST 10, 2006 2 AMERICAN HOME AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA 6117 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103-1692 Telephone: 216/431-0628 - Fax: 216/361-4088 AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA (USPS 024100) James V. Debevec - Publisher, English Editor Dr. Rudolph M. Susel - Slovenian Editor Ameriška Domovina Permanent Scroll of Distinguished Persons: Rt. Rev. Msgr. Louis B. Baznik, Michael and Irma Telich, Frank J. Lausche, Paul Kosir NAROČNINA: Združene države Amerike in Kanada: $35 letno za ZDA; $40 za Kanado (v ZD valuti) Slovenija in tujina, letalska pošta, $165 letno (v ZD valuti) SUBSCRIPTION RATES United States and Canada: U.S.A.: $35 per year; Canada: $40 in U.S. currency Slovenia and other foreign: $165 U.S. per year (air) AMERICAN HOME (ISSN 0164-680X) is published weekly, except 1st week in July and 1 week after Christmas, for $35 per year by American Home Pub. Co., 6117 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44103-1692. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, Ohio. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to AMERICAN HOME, 6117 St. Clair Cleveland, OH 44103-1692. No. 23 August 10, 2006 Computer Polka Mass by RUDOLPH FLIS Have I got something for you. Are you unable to leave home because of illness, or accident? I wish I could take credit for it, but it’s not mine, and it’s not for sale. It is soul grabbing, spiritual and a blessing to all of us of Slavic heritage. It’s the Polka Mass on the computer that you may have in your home. It was recorded a few Sundays past by Father George Balasko of the Youngstown Diocese. And here is where you can view it http://catholicmass.blogaspot .com You’ll love it. If you miss going to Mass on Sunday, here you can do it anytime. Say you get up at 3 a.m. and can’t sleep, and maybe you have already said a Rosary or two; just turn on your computer and through the miracle of electronics, you can pray the Mass with Fr. George. The greatest prayer in the world, and it is yours at any time, any day, any month, and any place. Your mood will change as your toes and fingers keep time with the music. Your soul will unite with Jesus, as you pray with Fr. George and sing praises to Jesus and with you will be your loved ones as the Slavic music makes this Special Mass touch your heart and soul and all special to you. If you are unable to bring it up on your computer, get one of your grandchildren over and it will be savored by both of you. How far we have come with technology, and this time it benefits you, me and God. We all thank you Fr. George. Father George told me I must attend Mass on Saturday or Sunday, no matter how many times I pray the Mass on my computer. That way I can offer up my Communion for all you folks unable to travel to church and Mass. It's Time for your eye exam! J. F. OPTICAL Eye Care Specialists Eye Exams Latest in eye fashion - Contact Lenses We Welcome Your Drs. Prescription 775 E. 185th St. Eye Glasses Cleveland, OH 44119 Repaired Tel.: (216) 531-7933 (34) Preserving Slovenian Identity by CARL DEBEVEC VACAVILLE, CA -- Thanks to Rich Terselic for his thoughts on the meaning of the Slovenian heritage. It brought up a lot of thoughts about ethnic identity, the need we may have to search for it in our own lives, and how we come to find it over a lifetime. I was raised in a half-Slovenian household. My dad (Robert Debevec) being one of six children of a full-blooded Slovenian, James E. Debevec, my mom of German, English and other heritage (fair disclosure: James V. Debevec, publisher, is my uncle). Our Slovenian ancestry was prominent in the household. My recollections of growing up in Euclid in the 1950s include visits to a Slovenian home on E. 174th Street for holiday dinners and celebrations, frequent weekend picnics with other Slovenian families in the neighborhood, Christmas eve family gatherings at Grandpa Debevec’s home, and all the Debevec uncles, aunts and cousins. (We still have pictures.) Holiday dinners included potica and other dishes that I later learned were of Slovenian tradition. (I also was assigned to learn the accordion at age 6, a trial I endured until age 8.) I have since and recently acquired an accordion and am renewing the acquaintance. (Joey Tomsick need not worry.) The true and deep meaning of these traditions and the vast Slovenian cultural history escaped me however, for many years. Over the years of high school and college and grad school I was, at best, vaguely aware of Slovenia as being a Central European part of Yugoslavia. I made some (ok, pathetic) effort to learn of its geography and traditions. As time and my interest in family heritage grew, I began a more expanded exploration of Slovenian culture and history. I learned my dad had only spoken Slovenian during the first five years of his life. Our Slovenian family tree was traced back to the 1700s, and learned of Grandpa Debevec’s dedication to Slovenia and its people and his efforts to help them during the tough years. The brief and victorious war for Slovenian independence in 1991 was the subject of much discussion and analysis in our family and was probably the stimulus for my quest to truly understand the meaning of my Slovenian background. (The recent articles in American Home on the 15th anniversary of Slovenian independence certainly filled in a lot of blanks in what I didn’t know about that heroic event.) I found myself explaining to inquisitive friends that Slovenia was the small European country that bravely stood up to the Yugoslavs in 1991 and achieved its independence. And along the way it became one of the prime independent and successful capitalist countries in Europe. A Christmas gift subscription to American Home several years ago from my dad truly opened the window to learning the Slovenian heritage. The many regular articles and letters and commentary about Slovenian history and the trials suffered by its people over the years especially during and after the war years have greatly enhanced my growing need to know about our shared history. Then I read the book “Slovenia 1945,” a moving first person semi-narrative history of the post war years, and felt I was coming to a real understanding of what the Slovenian experience was about, the incredible suffering, heroism, and the ethnic price that has defined the Slovenian culture for many decades. So when I read articles in the American Home about preserving our Slovenian identity, and about the events of 15 years ago, and the details of the story of lives such as those of Joseph Mihevc and Anton Žakelj, I find I have come over the years to a great and deep appreciation of this heritage we share and offer my thanks, our thanks, for those ready and willing to share their stories. My acquaintance with this wonderful heritage grows in love and appreciation and is passed on to my children. As it should be to the children of all who share our wonderful history. So thanks to the American Home, its writers and publishers (and Uncle Jim and Aunt Madeline) for your efforts in carrying on the truth and legend of this awesome culture we are privileged to share. Sold on ‘Kres’ Talent Editor, Clevelanders are very fortunate to have the talented and dedicated dancing group “Kres." I have heard about their wonderful performances for years, but since I live in Minnesota, I have never been fortunate enough to be in Cleveland at the same time as a Kres performance. Their next performance is on August 26 in the Slovenian National Home on St. Clair, but sadly, I will miss that one, too. This week I received the next best thing from Ivan Hauptman - a DVD of last year’s performance. I found this DVD to be absolutely delightful, entertaining and touching. Clevelanders can be very proud that you have so many talented adults and children participating in the Kres group. They present our Slovenian heritage with energy, enthusiasm and creativity. If I lived in Cleveland, I wouldn’t miss their performance. But, if you are like me and show, order the 2005 Kres DVD from Miss Lauren Hauptman at tvhauptman@vahoo.com The price, including shipping, is only $20. You can also order other quality DVDs, Slovenian books and recordings from the Slovenska Pisarna by contacting Felix J. Gaser at Slovenska pisarna, 6114 Lausche'Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 or e-mail felixgaser@adelphia.net Our thanks to Mr. Hauptman for his dedication and talent in producing this excellent record of our cultural hcri- ta8e' —John Zakclj, Saint Paul, MN What’s Problem With Being Balkan Country? Editor, I don’t intend to argue, here, whether or not Slovenia is a Balkan country. However, I find nothing “regrettable” about being a Balkan country. - Greece, the mother and cradle of ALL our European civilization, is a Balkan country. —Joseph Kovacic Colonial Hts., Virginio It'S COOL To Be SLOVENIAN Investors! Large home with 2 suites-one 7 room, 4 bedroom-Plus inlaw/suite. 4 room bath, attic, basement. Larg6 lot. Room for garage-driveway. Great for cxten ed family. Mechanically * 1 good working order. Asking $49,500, Possible seller participation. Telich Realty 216 - 481-3123_____- Finding Help to Quit Smoking All Come to SNPJ Farm by MARIJA MIKA STRASNER SAEGERTOWN, PA -Our body is supposed to be the temple of the Holy Spirit and not have the disgusting smell of an old chimney. If you want to get rid of the horrible, evil habit of buying expensive, stench-emitting cigarettes that kill your body (as we all well know that many thousands die each year from this awful habit), then listen to my story. I started smoking when I was a young girl during the Second World War. I was a student at that time and lived through the cruel, German occupation of my country. We students were hungry daily because food was not readily available. Little by little, I started smoking to control my hunger pains, and before I knew it, I was hooked. After emigrating to America, I tried many, many times to stop smoking because I could not afford it as a poor, young, single, widowed mother who could not speak the English language. Because of my status, I could not qualify for a good job. In the struggle to try to stop smoking, I remembered how my father used to tell me that tobacco is a devil flower. When Lord Jesus was walking in a valley one day, he stopped and admired the beautiful creation of Almighty God. The devil joined Him and told Him that he will put one of his flowers between God’s flowers and whoever tastes it will never leave it. Then with words from my heart, I prayed to Archangel St. Michael and to St. Mary Magdalene, from whom Jesus cast out seven devils, that they would help me rid myself of this evil habit that was destroying my health and my body. And believe it or not, I stopped smoking without even thinking or trying hard about it. I even had a cigarette lying on my living room table for a long, long time, and not even a thought or craving came into my mind that would lead me to start smoking again. About 10 years later, I also dreamt that I was smoking, and when I woke up, I had the taste of cigarettes in my mouth. This happened to me three times. Despite these temptations (which were probably from the devil), I still did not resume the habit. Thanks to Sts. Michael and Mary Magdalene, I am totally rid of cigarettes. If you want to quit as well, I am writing this to tell you that you, too, should ask for help from up above as I have. The dog days of summer will soon be coming to an end. But wait, we still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the summer before fall sets in. The Federation of American Slovenian Senior Citizens Clubs will have their annual picnic at SNPJ Farm on Heath Road on Wednesday, Aug. 30lh. Dinner will be served at 1 p.m. by our well-known popular cook Julie Zalar. For your toe tapping pleasure music by Frank Moravcik Orchestra from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Dinner and dancing admission is $13.00. For tickets call (216) 481 -0063 or (440) 943-3784 before Aug. 24. The St. Clair Pensioners will have their monthly meeting at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 17 at Slovenian National Home. Tickets for the Federation Picnic will be available as well as side board raffle tickets. If you cannot attend this meeting, please call Larry Hočevar (216) 431-1995 for tickets. Hope you can attend the meeting as well as the picnic. —Sylvia Plymesser The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people are so full of doubts. -John Mercina Bric km an- Jeff DiDonato, owner Di Donato flsSSU k Tom Corrigan Harlan Saxton FUNERAL HOME Lloyd Rankin 21900 Euclid Ave. Euclid, OH 216-481-5277 Caring ~ Compassionate ~ Dedicated to Euclid Wishes to Contact Frank Gorenc Editor, Greetings from Wenatchee, WA - On page 6 of the 04/20/06 issue of the American Home there was a nice article about Frank Gorenc, who is the Commander of the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, Balad Air Base, Iraq. I grew up with Frank in Milwaukee, and have lost contact with him after mov-mg West. He was always good, hard-working, and a real gentleman. Would you know his e-mail or surface mail address where one might be able to write to him. I would love to tell him how proud I am, and that he is in my prayers. I would aPpreciate any leads you may have. Beta Modic betamol 818(a)vahoo.com Kres Performance Mark your calendars. Kres’ annual performance W'U be on August 26 at the Movenian National Home. Euclid Slovenian Home Friday Meals erving 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. a" 216-531-8348 for take ®ut orders. Featuring deep r'ed Canadian pike and aked cod dinners, breaded P°rk chops, beef goulash, ®ur-chcese macaroni and £ Ccse and Slovenian Home ples> polenta, hand-cut rench fries, coleslaw and Ported desserts. 10 & ^ er children’s menu mlable. Every Friday will -—■^irc a different dinner Gobvg-OwOf-Business Sale - All Books 25% Off The Making of the Slovenian State/1988-1992; and the Collapse of Yugoslavia Authored by Prime Minister Janez Janša, this book gives an insider's view of the period leading to Slovenia's independence and a portrait of the people who emerged along with it. Hardback English edition has 52 photos in 256 pages. Sale price - $33.75 The Lipizzan Horses Features the photographs of Joco Žnidaršič, whose photographs are also seen in the popular “Slovenia: My Country." The book presents the world-renowned Lipizzan horses in all their beauty. Sale price - $67.50 Wines of Slovenia Translated into English, this new book covers 386 vineyards, a remarkable number for such a small country. Presented by region, the wines are rated in a four star system and paired to food recommendations. Authored by ethnologist Dr. Janez Bogataj and viniculturalist Dr. Julij Nemanič. Sale price - $48.75 mam ENGLISH SlOVtNE SLOVENE ENGLISH Slovene-English Dictionary At 935 pages, this hardcover edition is intended for most translation tasks. At the condensed size of 5-1/2“ x 3-1/4” x 1-3/4”, the dictionary is great for travelers. Sale price - $44.25 Slovenia: My Country This is one of the best photographic portraits of Slovenia ever published. It was produced by Joco Žnidaršič, the long-serving photo editor of DELO, the major daily newspaper in Slovenia. “My Country" captures the stunning beauty of Slovenia in 277 photographs over its 200 pages. English narration. Sale price - $67.25 Handicrafts of Slovenia This gorgeous book presents the craft art of over 200 craftsmen working in traditional forms. Includes a guide to artisans by region with contact information. 315 pages with 532 color photos. Standard edition - $75.00, exhibition edition with 143 color photographs in 172 pages - $33.75 The Cuisine of Slovenia: Four Seasons of Culinary Masterpieces won the 2005 Gourmand World Cookbook "Special Jury Award." This richly photographed book follows Slovenian cuisine through the year, bringing to the reader traditional dishes as well new menus. It has 260 recipes in 310 pages along with a section on Slovenian wines. Sale price - $59.25 Slovenian Folk Idles An English version of one of the best-selling Slovenian children's books, with six Slovenian folk tales and 52 great full-color illustrations in 82 pages. Sale price -$21.75 Come My Gentle Ariel This is the best known of renowned Slovenian author Mira Mihelic's many stories for young people. It is based on the author's up-bringing in her grandmother's home in the mining town of Ttbrovlje. 129 pages with 18 illustrations. Sale price -$21.75 Slovenian Cookery Over 100 classic Slovenian dishes are provided in this recent publication. Recipes selected by Slavko Adamje, one of Slovenia’s foremost chefs. 83 color photographs over its 144 pages. Attention is also given to the wines of each region. Sale price -$33.75 ALSO AVAILABLE Guide to Slovenian Museums - $43.50 / Plecnik’s Market in Ljubljana - $60.00 / Plecnik’s Treasures - $60.00 Triglav National Park Guide and Map - $19.50 / Architectural Guide to Ljubljana - Hardback - $63.75 Slovenia Pocket Guide - $9.00 / Slovenian Cooking - $9.00 / Slovenia Roadmap - $7.50 Slovenia: The First 10 Years - $60.00 / National Atlas of Slovenia - $56.25 (Slovenian version - $25.00) Slovenian Calligraphy: Uvelfih-Century Cistercian Manuscripts - £436 $60 A* Orders can be placed by credit card on-line at: ivww.BooksofSlovenia.com or by sending a check