Zarja Official Publication Slovenian Union of America Uradno Glasilo Slovenske Zveze v Ameriki $3.99 U.S./$8.99 International Volume 87 Issue 2 March/April 2015 The Dawn The Parish Church of St. Andrew in Goče, Slovenia Zarja - The Dawn EDITOR: Debbie Pohar DIRECTOR OF DESIGN: Bonnie Pohar Prokup EDITORIAL OFFICE: 1696 Illinois St. LaSalle, IL 61301-1359 TELEPHONE: 815.223.9596 FAX: 815.224.1074 WEB SITE: slovenianunion.org PUBLISHER: Slovenian Union of America (Formerly Slovenian Women’s Union of America) TELEPHONE: 815.727.1926 Vol. 87, No. 2, March/April 2015 Published bimonthly Periodicals Postage paid at Joliet, IL and additional mailing offices. (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: SLOVENIAN UNION OF AMERICA (Formerly Slovenian Women’s Union of America) 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432-1703 Communications for the next issue of publication Do you have something SUA-related you would like to share with readers, like an event you want to let people know about or an idea for an article? We would love to hear from you! Please e-mail the editor at pohar4@aol.com. We reserve the right to edit any article submitted. It is preferable that you submit your idea for discussion prior to writing an article. Articles must be related to Slovenia, SUA events, or members. The deadline for articles is the 10th day of the month, two (2) months preceding the issue. For example, articles for the May/June issue must be received by March 5. Thank you. Submission Guidelines Tell us how to reach you: Include your name, daytime phone number, e-mail address, and mailing address with each submission, including e-mailed submissions. Go Digital: We regret that we can no longer return submitted materials. It is best to e-mail your photos. Use a 3.2-megapixal (or better) camera set for the highest picture quality, and attach your photos as jpeg files. If you have an old photo that is irreplaceable, please make a good-quality copy to share with us. (Scanned copies must be a resolution of 300 or higher.) By submitting material for publication, you grant the Slovenian Union of America (formerly Slovenian Women’s Union of America) the use of the material, including your name, hometown, and state. We may modify, reproduce, and distribute it in any SUA authorized medium and in any manner or appropriate place. St. Andrew - A Man of Great Stature - The Legend(s) of St. Andrew Cross According to the New Testament, before he joined Christ, St. Andrew was known as the brother of St. Peter and a disciple of St. John the Baptist. After the death of Jesus, Andrew traveled east and preached around the Black Sea, bringing the gospel to the pagans. fingers, and a tooth) were brought to Britain between the 8th and 10th centuries by St. Regulus from Patria. However, how could Andrew become the patron saint of Scotland when he never visited the country? Again there are conflicting stories on how this happened. According to one legend, a number of bones, (supposedly the saint’s arm, kneecap, three Today, the legend or the miraculous legend of St. Andrew continues to speak to us. All we need to do is open our eyes. To those who share some Scottish heritage amongst your Slovenian heritage, St. Andrew’s Day is on November 30. Regardless of the legends, some time in history, the relics attributed to St. Andrew reached the coast near the village of Kilrymont; a cathedral was built and dedicated to St. Andrew, the It is believed that around 60 AD, Andrew was crucified on a city of St. Andrew was founded, the church in Goče, Slovenia, diagonal cross in Patras, which today is a city in Greece. He was dedicated to St. Andrew, and the village proper built in the felt unworthy to die in the same way as Christ did. Some argue form of St. Andrew’s Cross. it was just an earlier pagan symbol. A second theory says the diagonal cross may have been a more popular way to conduct Today, the St. Andrew’s Cross is the most recognized symbol executions in that region of the Roman Empire. in the world, the most famous is the Saltire, the national flag of Scotland. To list a few more: the state flag of Alabama, the Legends state that the Pictish King Angus led his forces into multiplication sign, a railroad sign crossing, the St. Andrews battle against the Saxons. As omens go, the night before the battle Cross spider, St. Andrew Flower, and the famous St. Andrew King Angus had a dream that he would see a Cross in the sky Cross Jewelry. and he would defeat the Saxons under this symbol. King Angus is said to have vowed that if he won then St. Andrew would be The next time you see a railway crossing, or the next time you appointed the patron saint of Scotland. In the morning, a white use your calculator, what will come into mind? The next time cross appeared in the blue sky. The troops were roused to victory. you see a spider, what will come to mind? I know for a fact, that King Angus won the battle and the Saltire (x-shaped cross with on my next trip to Slovenia, I will return to Goče to walk on the diagonal bars of equal length, aka St. Andrew’s Cross) became cobblestone St. Andrew Cross, and then stop by the church to a national symbol. say hello. e e g g a a s s s s e e M M s ’ s ntt’ Prreessiiddeen P OnJanuary January4,4,2015, 2015,my mysister, sister,Debbie DebbiePohar, Pohar,and andI Ilost lostour ourGREATEST GREATESTZarja Zarjafan, fan,our ourfather, father,John JohnPohar, Pohar,who whopassed passed On awaypeacefully peacefullyatatthe theage ageofof82. 82.Our Ourfather fatherwas wasananamazing, amazing,100% 100%Slovenian Slovenianman manwho whotaught taughtusushow howtotowork workhard, hard, away honest,and andput putfamily familyfirst. first.He Hewas wasborn bornofofSlovenian Slovenianimmigrant immigrantparents, parents,and andthrough throughhim himDebbie Debbieand andI Ifell fellininlove love bebehonest, withour ourSlovenian Slovenianheritage. heritage.Growing Growingup, up,potica, potica,sausage, sausage,flancati, flancati,polka polkamusic, music,and andhomemade homemadewine winewere werejust justa afew few with things that filled our home, setting the stage for the roles we would eventually take on at SWUA and SUA. things that filled our home, setting the stage for the roles we would eventually take on at SWUA and SUA. manyother otherfirst firstgeneration generationSlovenian-American Slovenian-Americanhomes, homes,our ourknowledge knowledgeofofthe thehomeland homelandwas wasvery verylittle. little.All Allofof Like Likemany thatchanged changedonce oncewe webecame becamemore moreinvolved involvedininSUA. SUA.Debbie Debbieand andI Iimmersed immersedourselves ourselvesinineverything everythingSlovenian. 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Thank you to all our friends across the United States and to taste everything. We are going to miss this man greatly! Thank you to all our friends across the United States and Sloveniawho whohave haveexpressed expressedtheir theirsympathy sympathytotoour ourfamily. family. Slovenia alsolike liketotothank thankeveryone everyonewho whofilled filledout outthe theSUA SUAsurvey. survey.This Thisisisgoing goingtotobebea agreat greattool toolleading leadingup uptotothe theNational National I’d I’dalso Convention and especially for the 2015 – 2019 National Board Officers. Which brings me to… who is interested? Convention and especially for the 2015 – 2019 National Board Officers. Which brings me to… who is interested? The2015-2019 2015-2019Board BoardofofDirector’s Director’spositions positionsare: are:President; President;VP VPofofOutreach; Outreach;VP VPofofHome HomeOffice; Office;VP VPofofCulture Cultureand and The Heritage;VP VPofofMarketing Marketingand andFund-Raising; Fund-Raising;Corresponding/Recording Corresponding/RecordingSecretary; Secretary;and andTreasurer. Treasurer.As AsI’ve I’vesaid saidmany many Heritage; times,accepting acceptingthese thesepositions positionscan canbebevery veryrewarding. rewarding.Since Since1993 1993I’ve I’vemet metsome somewonderful wonderfulpeople peopleand andhave havebeen beena a times, part of so much success in embracing my Slovenian heritage; I love it! And you can too! part of so much success in embracing my Slovenian heritage; I love it! And you can too! noneofofthe theBoard Boardpositions positionssuits suitsyour yourtalents talents- -no noworry worry- -consider considerbeing beingon onthe theAd AdHoc HocAdvisory AdvisoryCommittee, Committee, Perhaps Perhapsnone whichwill willbebecreated createdatatour ourSUA SUANational NationalConvention. Convention.This Thiscommittee committeewill willbebecomprised comprisedofofvolunteers volunteersfrom fromacross across which the country and from our Branches not exclusively elected Branch representatives and officers. All are welcome! We the country and from our Branches - not exclusively elected Branch representatives and officers. All are welcome! 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June! tional BonnieProkup, Prokup,National NationalPresident President Bonnie wprokup@aol.com wprokup@aol.com March/April2015 2015 March/April 11 Proposed Bylaws’ Amendments for SUA Member Representatives/Delegates to Vote at 27th National Convention In preparation for SUA’s 2015 National Convention in June - our first as a 501(c)(3) organization - and in following our Corporate Bylaws - the following information is of importance to our membership and to each Branches’ Member Representatives. Below is the list of proposed amendments to the new Corporate Bylaws that our Member Representatives/Delegates will vote on. The deadline for submissions for consideration was December 18, 2014 per ARTICLE XIII AMENDMENTS, SECTION 13.2 Bylaws, of our Corporate Bylaws. Additional suggestions must be submitted six (6) months prior to the next Member Representative Meeting tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2015. That date will be determined by the newly installed National Board. It is an adjustment for us all to understand - that now as a 501(c)(3) organization - we have laws to be mindful of and must adhere to. SUA is governed by our Corporate Bylaws and the SUA Policy & Procedure Manual. Our National Board determines our policies and procedures based on the law and smart business practices. Any member may make suggestions to the President and National Board for inclusions, changes, revisions, etc. to policies and procedures at any time. The decisions for final amendment proposals rests with the seven (7) member National Board. It is always a stressful process, but was much easier this time around due to the new Corporate Bylaws’ recent implementation. Still the Board spends long hours over what to propose to the Member Representatives/ Delegates for their final decisions as they represent the SUA membership. The National Board was guided by our legal representatives for a few of the proposals. One critical section referencing the number of votes by Member Representatives was incorrect for our type of corporation, which our law firm didn’t notice and the Board didn’t realize was in error. The sections of the SUA Corporate Bylaws that are listed below are printed with the exact wording (barring any typos) of the proposed amendments to the current Bylaws. Only the particular section and individual sentences considered for change are printed and the proposed wording change is in bold type. Unfortunately, space limitations do not allow for the printing of the complete SUA Bylaws for comparison. A complete copy is available from the SUA web site - www.slovanianunion.org for reading or printing. All members are encouraged to read or copy the complete Bylaws to use as a guide while considering the proposed amendments. These proposed amendments will be voted on by the Member Representatives/Delegates on June 19 & 20, 2015, in Naperville, Illinois, at the National Convention’s business meetings. All members are encouraged to attend the business meetings, however only Member Representatives elected by the individual Branches may vote on these proposals presented at the National Convention. Not even the National Board Officers or Regional Presidents may vote as in the past and SUA no longer needs approval from the Illinois Department of Insurance. Questions? Contact me at denisepbartlett@wi.rr.com or 414.327.4990. 2 Zarja - The Dawn Following are the Proposed Amendments to SUA’s Corporate Bylaws: CORPORATE BYLAWS OF THE SLOVENIAN UNION of AMERICA, INC. ARTICLE I CORPORATION SECTION 1.1 Corporate Name of the Slovenian Union of America, may become a member of this Corporation. Individuals under the age of eighteen (18) years may be admitted as junior members (“Junior Members”). Junior Members shall have no membership interest entitled to vote and shall not be considered in the cumulative membership interests voted by a Member Representative, as more fully described in Section 2.5. All members are subject to compliance with these Bylaws. The name of the Corporation shall be THE SLOVENIAN UNION OF AMERICA, INC. (the SECTION 2.5 Voting of Membership Interests “Corporation”), an Illinois not-for-profit corporation. The name as translated in the Slovenian language The Membership Representatives shall represent the is: SLOVENSKA ZVEZA V AMERIKI, INC. Members of the Branch and vote the membership interests of the Members of their Branch. Branches SECTION 1.4 Not-For-Profit Organization with up to 200 adult members shall have one (1) Member Representative and shall have one (1) vote (e)The Corporation shall forever use its property and and Branches with 201 or more adult members provide its services without regard to race, delete - shall have two (2) Member Representatives sex, add - gender, age, creed, color, condition, add and shall have two (2) votes. (Delete - Each - religion, ancestry, or national origin. Membership Representative shall cast the number of membership interests equal to the total Adult ARTICLE II Members of their Branch divided by the number MEMBERS of Membership Representatives for that Branch. The Membership Representative shall cast all SECTION 2.1 Members membership interests and may not divide the membership interests he/she represents.) The members of the Corporation (“Members”) shall consist of the individual adult members of the local SECTION 2.7 Term of Member Representative Branches of The Slovenian Union of America (each a “Branch”) that have paid their membership dues on Each Member Representative shall serve according or before the first (1st) day of March each year and to the election decision of their respective Branch. remain in good standing. Any individual over the age (delete - until his/her removal, resignation, or of eighteen (18) years, whether of Slovenian or other death.) The term of a Member Representative shall descent, who subscribes to the purposes and Bylaws automatically and immediately end when and if the March/April 2015 3 time by the National Board of Directors or National Conventions. The National President shall have the authority to call meetings of the National Board of Directors, and to sign all official Corporation papers ARTICLE IV and documents, as may be required. The National OFFICERS President shall be responsible to the National Convention and the National Board of Directors for SECTION 4.1 Officers all work carried out on behalf of the Corporation, The National Officers of the Slovenian Union of shall present a written report of the activities of the America, who must remain in good standing, shall Corporation at the annual meeting of the National Board of Directors, and shall provide a written report consist of the following personnel: covering the National President’s term of office to the (a) The seven (7) elected members of the National Convention. The National President shall be National Board of Directors, namely, an ex officio member of all committees and receive the National President, National notice of their meetings. Vice President of Outreach, National ARTICLE V Vice President of Home office, COMMITTEES National Vice President of Culture and Branch that appointed him/her ceases to be a Branch of the Corporation. Heritage, National Vice President of Marketing and Fund-Raising, National Corresponding/Recording Secretary, and the National Treasurer. (b) The six (6) Regional Presidents elected by the Branches constituting the six (6) regions. SECTION 4.2 National President The National President shall be at least 21 years of age and a member in good standing for at least two (2) years. The National President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and Chairperson of the National Board of Directors. The National President shall supervise and manage the affairs of the Corporation and shall appoint Chairpersons of all committees, unless otherwise provided. The National President shall perform all duties incident to such Office and such duties as may be provided in these Bylaws or as may be prescribed from time to 4 SECTION 5.1 Establishment of Committees The National Board of Directors, by a majority vote of the Directors present at a meeting of the National Board of Directors at which a quorum is present, may create one (1) or more standing or ad hoc committees and appoint Directors, or such other persons as the National Board of Directors designates, to serve on the committee or committees. Additionally, the National Board of Directors may create committees to work specifically in preparation of and conducting of National Conventions and may create an Advisory Committee. SECTION 5.2 Appointment and Removal of Committee Members Each committee shall have two (2) or more Directors. (delete - and a majority of its membership shall be Directors.) All committees shall be comprised of an odd number of committee members. All committee Zarja - The Dawn members shall serve at the pleasure of the National described in Section 8.2. Regional Presidents shall Board of Directors and may be removed by the have the duty to foster interest in the Corporation National Board of Directors at any time. in their respective areas. They shall promote the development of the Corporation generally, and shall SECTION 5.6 Standing Committees program activities on a region-wide level. In addition, they shall organize and preside over Regional Delete e) Scholarship Committee. (Scholarships Conventions. are currently offered by the SWU Scholarship Foundation, a separate entity.) SECTION 8.6 Regional Conventions ARTICLE VIII REGIONAL PRESIDENTS AND REGIONAL CONVENTIONS SECTION 8.1 Regional Presidents One Regional President, a member in good standing, shall be elected for each Region by the Members of the Branches constituting the Regions, as more fully To create additional interest, sociability, and to foster new ideas benefiting the welfare of the Corporation, Regional Conventions shall be held at least once every two (2) years in each region. Each Branch in a region shall send a Representative-at-Large. The Regional President shall preside over the Regional Convention and a Recording Secretary of the host Branch shall serve at each Regional Convention. Important: Special attention is drawn to the following notices: --Some votes may be by silent ballot. --The State of Illinois and the IRS requires that certain language must be stated in a non-profit Corporation’ s Bylaws. Our Bylaws have to be written in accordance with the State of Illinois Not-forProfit Act of 1986 and also must conform to a legal structure that is acceptable to the IRS for a 501(c)(3) Corporation. This is for information only - not delegate approval - as we must comply. We are always guided by legal counsel when necessary. --Parliamentary procedure dictates that due to the Scope of Notice requirement for proposed amendments to Bylaws 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. --Member Representative’s/Delegate’s votes on issues and amendments during the convened National Convention are final. Submitted by: Denise P. Bartlett, SUA Director of Special Projects, SUA Parliamentarian, & Bylaws Chairperson for the 27th National Convention March/April 2015 5 SUA Donations - Thank You! $500 Donation Bjorgo, Benita, 109, +Rose Sevshek $100 Donation Branch 89, Zarja Branch 89, Heritage Museum Sixel, Mike, 102, +Pat Sixel-Artac $50 Donation Branch 24, Heritage Museum Wojdula, Elsie, 2, SUA $25 Donation Louthan, Barbara, 93, SUA Skrilec, Maria, 93, SUA Smith, Marcia Jean, 30, SUA Weber, Nada, 93, SUA Weber, Renata, 93, SUA Marcus Ochsendorf Branch 35 - Aurora, MN Earned the Rank of Eagle Scout He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 151 in Hugo, MN, and is a senior at White Bear Lake High School. To earn the rank of Eagle, a scout must earn 13 required Merit Badges and plan and deliver a service project to his church, school, or community. In addition to the 13 required badges, Marcus also earned 25 badges in elective subjects. For his service project, Marcus and a team of volunteers built 40 field desks for Oneka Elementary School in Hugo. Students use these portable desks when they go out into the local wetland area to study the environment. A Court of Honor was held on January 17, 2015, to present Marcus with scouting’s highest rank. Over 60 people attended, including family, friends, fellow scouts, and community members. The luncheon afterward included homemade potica. It was a hit, especially for those who had never tried it before. Congratulations, Marcus, on attaining the rank of Eagle Scout! Zakosek, Jerry, 20, SUA Zwieg, Ruth, 102, SUA $15 Donation Kovacic, Nika, 108, +Erik A Kovacic $10 Donation Bockin, Mary, 1, SUA Burke, Cheryl, 1, SUA Grambow, Krista, 43, +Ann Grambow Rupar, Joan, 1, SUA $5 Donation Ceglar, Bernice, 35, SUA 6 Marcus with his grandmother, Anita Vovk, former president of Branch 35 - Aurora, MN. Zarja - The Dawn CALENDAR OF EVENTS SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2015 BRANCH 100 of Southern California to host cooking/ baking class at the home of Bonney Zupan in Banning. Contact Jean Koci for further information at 949.495.0097. SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2015 BRANCH 13 of San Francisco, California, to host Member of the Year Luncheon, $35 per person, at 12:00 p.m. at Val’s Restaurant, 2468 Junipero Serra Blvd., Daly City. TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 BRANCH 20 of Joliet, Illinois, to host St. Joseph Table Dinner at St. Joseph Park at 6:30 p.m. Everyone attending to bring a dish to pass. WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 BRANCH 16 of South Chicago, Illinois, to host the Member of the Year Luncheon, honoring Rosemary Petrich, at Tom’s Restaurant in Calument City. Call Mary Jane Strus at 773.768.5127 to RSVP. SATURDAY, MARCH 21 and SUNDAY, MARCH 22, 2015 BRANCH 20 of Joliet, Illinois, to host annual Bakery Sale at St. Joseph Church before and after all Masses. SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2015 BRANCH 109 of Twin Cities (TC), Minnesota, to host “Regions of Slovenia” by Miro Medved at 9:30 a.m. at New Brighton Community Center. Call Norm at 651.777.6106 for more information. SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2015 BRANCH 89 of Oglesby, Illinois, to host annual Slovenian Heritage Event at Claudette’s in Oglesby. SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2015 BRANCH 43 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to host annual Butare-making at Triglav Park in Wind Lake starting at 10:00 a.m. SUNDAY, MARCH 29, 2015 BRANCH 43 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to attend 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. John the Evangelist for a blessing of the butare and procession into church. Wear your Narodna noša or a red carnation. A social will take place in the church hall following Mass. SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 2015 BRANCH 109 of Twin Cities (TC), Minnesota, to host Festival of Nations theme with Sue Rademacher and Mike Koski at 9:30 a.m. at New Brighton Community Center. Call Norm at 651.777.6106 for more information. THURSDAY, APRIL 30 – SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2015 BRANCH 109 of Twin Cities (TC), Minnesota, to participate in Festival of Nations at St. Paul River Centre. Call Norm at 651.777.6106 for more information. SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2015 BRANCH 47 of Garfield Heights, Ohio, to host luncheon at 1:00 p.m. at the Burntwood Tavern on Kruse Drive in Solon. March/April 2015 SATURDAY, MAY 16, 2015 BRANCH 109 of Twin Cities (TC), Minnesota, to host Slovenian Strudel-baking Demo at 9:30 a.m. with Ronnie Boucher at New Brighton Community Center, Room 224. Call Norm at 651.777.6106 for more information. THURSDAY, JUNE 18 – SUNDAY, JUNE 21, 2015 27th SUA NATIONAL CONVENTION to be hosted by Branch 99 of Lemont, Illinois. Convention will be held at the Chicago Marriott Naperville with side trips to the Slovenian Union of America Heritage Museum, Slovenian Catholic Mission, Slovenian Catholic Center, and Lipizzaner Horse Performance. Special activities include Slovenian fashion show, Potica Contest, Apron Contest, Auction, Polka Lessons, Beehive Tour and Presentation, and more. The Convention is open to all Branch Member Representatives/Delegates, SUA members, and guests of all ages. Welcome to Our New Branch Members 16, Griffin, George 23, Ostrander, Terry 30, Black, Cynthia 30, Bowers, Mary 30, Parks, Arthur 30, Regina, Martin 43, Gallun-Arnieri, Margaret 50, Price, Lindsey 50, Runge, Bobbie 93, Mencigar, Vera 100, Mavko, Frances 100, Sanders, Kathy 103, Terselic, Abigail 103, Terselic, Hannah 109, Carey, Kathy 109, Lobe, Joseph 7 27 SUA th NATIONAL CONVENTION Naperville/Lemont, Illinois June 18-21, 2015 The 27th National Convention is just three months away! Many activities are planned and some possible surprises. Registration is now underway and all are welcome to attend. You can register for the Convention online or by U.S. mail. Although there will be time for important meetings, the Convention is not all business. There are several fun events in store, as well as sight-seeing near the hotel. All attendees are welcome and encouraged to attend the business meetings, as well as the special activities planned. SUA members and non-members of all ages are welcome. Hotel Reservations The Chicago Marriott Naperville hotel welcomes you with contemporary design, innovative technology, and a warm, hospitable atmosphere. Comfort is a given, with spacious guest rooms featuring luxury linens, marble bathrooms, flat screen TVs, and more. Technology fits the way you work and play, with both wired and wireless Internet access in all rooms. Special room pricing including a full breakfast package are offered. We know you will enjoy your stay! Chicago Naperville Marriott 1801 North Naper Boulevard Naperville, IL 60563 Hotel reservations must be made by May 25 Call 800.514.4684 Reservation Name: Slovenian Union Convention June 2015 $104 per night plus tax (2-queen beds or 1-king bed) Room price includes a full, free breakfast for all occupants! To reserve a room online, please follow the link for online registration. Welcome Event A Welcome Party is planned at the SUA Heritage Museum in Joliet on Thursday, June 18. Enjoy a taste of Slovenia and view the many Slovenian exhibits and displays. Thank you to Branch 24 from LaSalle, IL, for hosting and organizing this event. Transportation from the hotel to the museum is on your own - carpooling is recommended. The hotel is just three miles from downtown Naperville, including the renowned River Walk and an outstanding, living history museum known as the Naper Settlement. There is easy access to the interstate and many top area restaurants. Enjoy Marriott’s great room designs, indoor swimming pool with patio area, complimentary fitness center, full-service restaurant, lounge, room service, and free parking! 8 Slovenian Union of America 431 North Chicago Street Joliet, IL 60432 Lippizan Horse Show Attendees of the SUA Convention are in for a special treat! Tempel Farms in Old Mill Creek, Illinois, will hold a special performance of their Lipizzan horses on Friday evening, June 19. The Lippizan horses originated from Zarja - The Dawn Slovenia and have been protected by empires and sought after by royalty for centuries. Cost for the show includes transportation from the hotel. Honeybees Exhibit and Presentation The Chicago Marriott Naperville hotel cultivates their own beehives on the roof of the hotel and produces their own signature honey. MaryAnn Basso, Sales and Catering Coordinator of the hotel, says the following about their beehives - “On the roof of our hotel we house five beehive colonies, each named after a team member’s child. With us since the hotel opened in 2012, our bees work hard to produce the best, truly local honey featured throughout our menus. We harvest upwards of 1,000 lbs. of honey each year. Our culinary and pastry teams present the honey in practical and delicious ways for our guests to enjoy. The honey is also used to create the hotel’s signature wedding cake flavor, the ‘Honey Cake with Honey Mousse.’” Enjoy a presentation of the hotel beehives, a guest speaker on the topic of beehives and their importance in Slovenia, and an exhibit of beehive panels. Slovenian Fashion Show Enjoy a trip through the various regions of Slovenia and see the traditional costumes of each area. Learn about the different cultural folk dress, when and how they are worn, the special fabrics used, sewing techniques, and accessories. March/April 2015 Polka Dance Lessons Put your polka-dancing shoes on and learn this lively, Slovenian, traditional form of dance! You will also be able to perform what you learned by dancing the polka at the banquet. All for fun! Potica Contest Prepare your best potica recipe and enter it into the potica contest for the chance to win a prize! Present your potica fully baked, unsliced, accompanied with complete recipe and name of the baker. Entries will be accepted Thursday and Friday during the Convention. Entrant must be a SUA member. Winner to be announced at the banquet. 9 Convention Banquet A highlight of the Convention is the banquet, which will be held on Saturday evening, June 20. The hotel is preparing a special dinner for Convention attendees and offering many Slovenian foods. Also, the Slovenian Ambassador, Dr. Božo Cerar, from Washington D.C. will be the guest Slovenian Catholic Center – Mass, Picnic, & Art Show On the last day of the Convention, June 21, we plan to co-host an outdoor Mass and a walking tour of the grottos on the grounds of the Slovenian Mission Church located in Lemont, Illinois. Attendees can also enjoy a Slovenian picnic, a Slovenian Art Show, and tour of the Slovenian Catholic Center which is located on the grounds as well. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Transportation from the hotel to the Slovenian Catholic Center is on your own - carpooling is recommended. Slovenian Catholic Center 14252 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439 speaker. The well known, Evald Flisar from Slovenia, will entertain us with a play written especially for this Convention. Meet the new National Board of SUA, and enjoy a night of delicious food, traditional music, and Slovenian fun! If you have any questions about the National Convention, please contact Julie LaJoie, Convention Chairperson, at jamp817@comcast.net or 630.854.5400. Looking forward to seeing YOU and SUA members from across the U.S. this summer!! ATTENTION MINNESOTA MEMBERS & GUESTS! Would you like to attend the National Convention in Illinois this June? We are organizing bus transportation. The cost will be around $125 round trip per person and will have a pick up in Eveleth, Cloquet, and the Twin Cities. Interested members should contact me by e-mail at roseanttila@hotmail.com or phone 218.229.2996 to reserve a seat. We need a minimum of 35 passengers in order to reserve a bus. Reservations should be made by April 15 and payment by May 15. You must register for the hotel separately! Call the Chicago Naperville Marriott at 800.514.4684 and request the special room rate of $104 for the Slovenian Union of America. The room rate does not include taxes or any extra charges you personally incur - for example, drinks, room service, and movies. Rooms will host up to four guests. 10 Zarja - The Dawn National Convention Registration Form ONE FORM PER PERSON - Please make copies as needed. You may REGISTER ONLINE by going to www.slovenianunion.org and use your credit card! First Name __________________________ Last Name ________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________ City _____________________ State ____ Zip Code ___________ Phone _________________________ Branch # - City _____________________ Phone _________________Cell Phone __________________ E-mail (Required - If you do not have e-mail, please use one of a trusted friend or relative.) _____________________ C U T H E R E Check box if you are a Member Representative (delegate) for your Branch. **The Member Representative’s Convention Package is paid by the National Convention Fund. Lippizan Performance and hotel not included. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Convention Package: (Hotel Not Included) (Includes all activities and meals on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Lippizan Performance not included.) Check ONE Member Representative $ 0 _________ Early Bird SUA Member (Before May 1) $185 _________ Regular SUA Member $195 _________ Junior Member (5-17) $ 30 _________ Child Member (4 and under) FREE $ 0 _________ Non-Member $215 _________ To make hotel reservations, call the Chicago Naperville Marriott at 800.514.4684 Reservation Name: Slovenian Union Convention June 2015 Special room rate of $104 plus tax per night includes a full breakfast for all occupants. Lippizan Performance: (Ticket includes bus transportation from Chicago Naperville Marriott.) Check ONE Adult $35 _________ Junior/Child (17 and under) $10 _________ Banquet Only (For additional guests): Adult (For additional guests) Junior (5-17) Child (4 and under) FREE $50 $15 $ 0 Check ONE _________ _________ _________ TOTAL DUE: _________ ** Please let us know if you have special needs; vegetarian, handicap, etc.** -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Include a check payable to: Slovenian Union of America and mail to: Slovenian Union of America C/O Monica Morrissette, 903 Cassie Drive, Joliet, IL 60435 March/April 2015 11 SWU Scholarship Foundation CELEBRATING 66 YEARS OF FINANCIALLY ASSISTING STUDENTS Mission: To generate funding to financially assist students with hope that they will promote and preserve Slovenian culture. As the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Foundation reaches its 66th year, it is time to remember its past, dedicated directors. MARIE CERNE PRISLAND 1949-1965 member of the Girl Scout Council, along with being a member of St. Cyril & Methodius Church and its Altar Society. King Peter’s government of Yugoslavia decorated Marie with the Order of St. Sava in 1939, as a result of the war relief work she organized in Wisconsin. President Truman awarded her a Red Cross citation for her Red Cross work, and the City of Sheboygan gave Marie a community service award in recognition of her devotion to community betterment. As a prolific writer, Marie Prisland wrote a book entitled From Slovenia to America, recording early experiences as an immigrant, which included much information on other Slovenian immigrants in various Slovenian communities of the United States. In 1945 she compiled a history of Sheboygan Slovenians for the Sheboygan Press and also for the state in the Wisconsin Magazine. In Zarja - The Dawn, the magazine of the Slovenian Women’s Union, Marie Prisland wrote monthly news columns named “Oh Ta Svet,” along with an early ethnic cookbook entitled Women’s Glory. Marie Cerne was born in Recica ob Savinji, Slovenia, June 21, 1890, the daughter of Franz and Marija Cerne. She came to America at the age of 15 and in 1908 married John Prisland, also of Slovene ancestry. With the desire to promote and preserve her Slovenian heritage, Marie became a founding member and the first female national officer of the KSKJ Lodge 157 Queen of Mary Society. In 1926 she founded the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, a national society that continues to flourish today as the Slovenian Union of America. Marie also founded and was president of the Slovenian War Relief Branch 4. She served 21 years as a trustee of the Mead Public Library, was a charter member of the Sheboygan County Community Welfare Council, a former 12 In 1946, the Slovenian Women’s Union of America held its national convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Marie Prisland proposed a national scholarship program to the members. After its approval, funds were raised and the first scholarships were presented in 1949, and have been awarded annually for the past 69 years. HERMINE DICKE 1965-1991 Hermine M. Dicke, daughter of Marie and John Prisland, was born April 21, 1912, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. She graduated from Sheboygan High School in 1930 and from St. Mary’s School of Nursing, Milwaukee, in 1933. Hermine was employed as a registered nurse at the Zarja - The Dawn University Hospital in Madison. She married Robert J. Dicke in 1940. Hermine served as president of the following organizations: Madison Catholic Women’s Club, the Queens Guild of our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Friends of International Students, Daughters of Demeter, and MARC. She was the Oneida Tribe Chief of the Nakoma Welfare League and Engineering from Triton College, and a Bachelor of Science and Civil Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology. She has tutored adults working toward their GED or associate degrees and has taught special education CCD classes. After working over 20 years as an Environmental Engineer, she went back to school to become a licensed high school teacher. For the past 11 years, she has taught at Cardinal Ritter High School in Indianapolis, covering Algebra, Geometry, Pre-calculus, Trigonometry, Probability and Statistics, and Finite Math. Two years ago, she introduced a Principles of Engineering course, and now is developing a course for 2D and 3D modeling and printing with the use of two 3D printers. Carita is also currently the moderator of a robotics team. MARJORIE CHURCH 1995-1996 Mary Marjorie Church was born and reared in Maple Heights, Ohio, daughter of Jacob and Mary Yemec (Jemc), attended schools in Maple Heights and Fairfield Hts., Ohio, and graduated with an Associate Degree in Business from the University of Dayton. Later she attended the University of Colorado and Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Ohio. She lived in Denver, Colorado, for 20 years, for 20 years she was active in the Black Hawk Council of Girl Scouts, including years as the general chairwoman of the annual Girl Scout Cookie Sale. She received the following awards: In 1979, the Book of Golden Deeds Award by the Madison Exchange Club for community and church services; in 1982, the MARC’s service Award; in 1985, the Downtown Rotary Club Senior Service Award; and in 2009, the ARC-Dane County Lifetime Achievement Award. For 26 years she directed the scholarship program for the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, a national organization founded by her mother, Marie Prisland. In 1981 she authored a Slovenian-American cookbook for the Slovenian Women’s Union entitled Pots and Pans. During her tenure as director of the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Program, Hermine developed promotional and evaluation procedures. Her interest in the welfare of others and her joyous personality brought the scholarship program continued success. CARITA GIRMAN 1991-1995 Carita Girman, daughter of Edward and Olga Ancel, has been infused with Slovenian heritage work since a young child. Education has been a strong drive in the Ancel and Erjavec families. Carita holds three college degrees, namely, a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Illinois, an Associate of Science in March/April 2015 working as a stewardess, administrative assistant, and ski instructor. Marge returned to Ohio and joined the Slovenian Women’s Union (now SUA) in 1983, became a national officer in 1994, followed by 20 years as an officer of the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Foundation. She also became a member of the Slovenian National Home, in Maple Heights, Ohio, and later served as Director and Recording Secretary. Marge retired from her employment in 2008, and currently enjoys her church choral group and associate membership with the Sisters of St. Joseph, Third Order of St. Francis, Garfield Heights, Ohio. Marge served as a temporary director for one year before becoming Vice President and Treasurer of the SWU Scholarship Foundation during the past 19 years. 13 An Update from Amy Koncar, Branch 20 - Joliet, Illinois AMY KONCAR, member of Branch 20 - Joliet, IL, recipient of the 2013 Jean Kurilich Memorial Scholarship, has sent the following letter to Zarja readers. Dear Slovenian Union of America, I have successfully finished my third semester of college at Fontbonne University in St. Louis, Missouri. Both in the fields of academics and extra-curricular activities, I have accomplished much during my time in St. Louis. Academically, I continue to challenge myself through courses in the Honors program and thus far have maintained a GPA of 3.959 out of 4.0. My passion for Speech and Language Pathology continues to grow with each class I take within my major. Additionally, I added a minor in Religious Studies, which allows me to continue taking classes to increase my understanding of all religions. I was also recently inducted into the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. I recently attended the Alpha Lambda Delta Leadership Conference as our chapter’s Vice President. In addition, I am involved in numerous clubs, organizations, and service activities, many in which I currently hold leadership positions. To name a few, I am Vice President of Students for Life, Participation Coordinator for the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, Campus Ministry Core Team Member and Retreat Coordinator, and volunteer Student Ambassador. On top of my extracurricular activities, I work in the school library to help support tuition costs. Outside of school activities I am volunteering through St. Louis University for Camp Kesem. This national organization gives children, whose parents have or have had cancer, a free, weeklong, summer camp. College students do all the fund-raising, advertising, planning, and running of the camp. I am extremely lucky to have the opportunity to participate with the new St. Louis chapter of Camp Kesem, because I attended Camp Kesem for numerous years in junior high and high s c h o o l . We hosted our first week of camp over the summer and ended with great joy and success. Wi t h a l l o f my activities and studying I manage to stay extremely busy. Over the summer I also volunteered in my future field of Speech and Language Pathology at Easter Seals of Joliet by helping in their development and articulation summer camps. Not only have I grown in knowledge academically, but also personally and spiritually through my extracurricular activities and volunteer experiences. I want to thank the Slovenian Union of America for the confidence and encouragement you have given me as I continue to pursue higher education. With much thanks, Amy Koncar In the January 2015 edition of Signs of the Times, the following suggestions were listed in order to become happy in life: Gratitude - Optimism - Acts of Kindness - Forgiveness There are many Slovenian Union members and friends who must certainly be happy after being so generously responsive to the 2014 Scholarship Christmas Card fund-raiser. The students and officers thank you most sincerely. Please visit http://www.swusf.org for information on the SWU Scholarship Foundation program. Donations of any amount will be gratefully accepted and can be mailed to: Mary Turvey, SWU Scholarship Foundation 4 Lawrence Drive, Marquette, Michigan 49855 mturvey@aol.com 14 Zarja - The Dawn Scholarship Donations $500 Donation Anonymous Bonita K. Bjorgo, +Rose Sevshek $200 Donation Carole Poirier $100 Donation Connie Newbery & Family, +Emily Rodich Maria Kompare, +Anne & Edward Kompare Louis P. Lukancic, +Helen Valerugo Rose Arthmire, +Joseph & Antonia Ozanich Branch 89 - Oglesby, Illinois $50 Donation Stane & Marge Kuhar, +Jozica Benedik Virgnia Ivancich Jacquelyn Smith, +her dad, Louis Kovach Dorothyann Lindes, +Nick & Dorothy Zakrasek Dr. Donald Carek Sara Cullinane Phyllis R. Fon - A Christmas gift Agnes A. Kurnick, +Edward Kurnick & Edythe M. Ansel Barbara P. Nash, honor of the Perhay Family Carol A. Dooley Fredrick J. Mlakar FIND YOUR SLOVENIAN ROOTS! . . . maybe you don’t know where to begin . . . . . . maybe you have hit that proverbial brick wall . . . $40 Donation Ken & Teresa Koci, +Rose Novak $25 Donation Wanda Kocinec, +Paula Mavec Wanda Kocinec, +her parents, Anton & Dina Skamperle Mary P. Ryan, +Stephanie Ryan, Secretary of the Calumet, MI Branch Breda Loncar, honor of the Slovenian American Times Patricia Budzilek Corrine Leskovar Rosemary Toth, +Albina Mesnik Marlene Stjernholm, honor of Helen Skrabec’s 90th birthday Carol Ryba, +Val Grantham Dorothy Jerneycic Clare Mihelich $20 Donation Branch 35 - Aurora, MN, +Madelyn Klun Rosemary Mlakar, +her mother, Rose Novak Joseph Cannavino, +Midge Cannavino Anonymous Marjorie Church, +Robert Kastelic Branch 42 - Maple Hts., OH, +Robert Kastelic Anne Kemmerling, honor of Mary Taucher $15 Donation Alice Mrzena Mentor Women’s Club, +Maureen Podlogar Contact us: Slovenian Genealogy Research Center 6415 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 $10 Donation E-mail: sgsi.rc@gmail.com Koncar Family Phone: 1.440.655.3954 Branch 50 - Euclid, OH, +Maureen Podlogar Website: www.sloveniangenealogy.org Our mission is to help you!!!! March/April 2015 Hvala! Hvala! Thank you kind donors for your support of our scholarship program. 15 Membership Application and Renewal Slovenian Union of America (Formerly known as Slovenian Women’s Union of America) slovenianunion.org sua@slovenianunion.org 815.727.1926 For RENEWALS use form at BOTTOM of this page Adult Dues $25.00 Adult Dues (International Address) $35.00 Junior Dues (Birth to 18) $5.00 If this is a gift and you agree to continue paying for this membership next year, please advise us of billing address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Dues are for January through December If you join after August 31 you will not be billed in January of the next calendar year Membership Renewal Notifications are sent annually in January Please print the requested information below and send this application form with a check payable to: Slovenian Union of America, 431 North Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432-1703 Last Name________________________________ First Name______________________ M___ F____ Street Address_____________________________ City/State/Zip________________________________ Phone____________________________________ E-Mail______________________________________ Date of Birth_______________ Branch Affiliation Number (if known)/Location_______/______________ Maiden Name______________________________ Do you speak Slovenian? _____________________ Please describe your Slovenian ancestry and provide SLOVENIAN SURNAMES ___________________________________________________________________________________ How did you hear about us? SUA Member___ Newspaper___ Website___ Other____________________ I would like to volunteer for the SUA. My area of interest or expertise is___________________________ Applicant’s Signature__________________________________________ Date______________________ Recommended by: Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL Name ___________________________________________________ Member ID No.__________________ (located on back cover) Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________ E-mail______________________________ Dues Amount______________ Donation_________________ Mail to: SUA/SWUA, 431 N. Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432-1703 16 Zarja - The Dawn Slovenian Union of America “April’s Showers of Wishes” Drawing April 2015 Fund-Raiser CASH PRIZES TOTALING $2,790 Top Seller Prizes: 1st Place - $130 2nd Place - $90 3rd Place - $50 Daily Drawings at $60 April 5 and 30 at $130 April 1 and 15 at $200 $10 Per Entry How the fund-raiser works: Each day in the month of April, 2015, one (1) winner will be chosen to win the listed cash prize for that day - $60, $130, or $200. C U The month of April has much to celebrate - including April No Fool’s Day, Easter Sunday, Help with Tax Day, and the last day before May’s flowers. The winners chosen on April 1 – “April No Fool’s Day” – and April 15 – “Help With Tax Day” – will win $200 each. The winners chosen on April 5 – “Easter Sunday” – and April 30 – “Here Come May Flowers” – will win $130 each. In addition, the top sellers (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place) will win $130, $90, and $50 respectively. A minimum of 300 entries must be sold. It’s a WIN opportunity for everyone! ****Good Luck!**** T H E R E Your “April’s Showers of Wishes” drawing entry will be eligible for all daily drawings in the month of April, 2015. Sellers of the winning entries will receive $10.00 as an award for their selling efforts. The daily drawing amount and the seller’s $10.00 prize will be mailed to the winners of record the next business day. Winners will be notified by e-mail, if provided, and their names posted on the SUA website: www.slovenianunion.org. The following entry form should be printed clearly and accompany your $10 entry fee. Detach at perforation Entry Form (Please Print Clearly) Entrant’s Information: Name:_____________________________________ Address:___________________________________ City:______________________________________ State:_______________ZipCode:_______________ Phone:_____________________________________ E-mail:____________________________________ Seller’s Information: Name:_____________________________________ Address:___________________________________ City:______________________________________ State:______________ Zip Code:_______________ Phone:_____________________________________ E-mail:____________________________________ Branch Number and Location:__________________________________________________________________ Please mail completed form and $10 check payable to SUA to: Denise P. Bartlett, SUA Director of Special Projects 7902 West Howard Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53220-1612 Phone: 414.327.4990 or denisepbartlett@wi.rr.com March/April 2015 17 Slovenian Union of America “April’s Showers of Wishes” Drawing April 2015 Fund-Raiser “April’s Showers of Wishes” Drawing 18 SUA has been fortunate over the past couple of years in having some decade-long wishes realized. Being recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization was a wonderful occurrence after so many actual hours and monies were spent to make it a reality. Now it’s time to concentrate on the many needs of our organization. Our members have been so generous over the years in helping us to produce memorable National Conventions because of our successful raffle fund-raisers, and we hope you’ve had some fun in doing so. Won’t you help us once again? Our needs and wishes are many. Our National Officers over many decades have donated many hours and items to get us where we are today – but some things are financially out of reach at this time. Of course we would have liked to procure them all yesterday and it is unrealistic to fulfill all our wishes at once – but we can try. Any profits from our fund-raiser could help us procure many of the following needs (wishes): Slovenian Heritage Items Heritage Programs Updated Telephone Conferencing System Updated Computer System Membership Database Software Laptop Computer Heritage Museum & Home Office Spring Cleaning Renovated Restroom Carpet Replacement Off-Site Record Retention Home Office Building Repairs Lighting/Fixtures Slovenian Cookbook Production All members’ donations are now tax-deductible, however, raffle entries are not. Your $10 entry will make you eligible for cash prizes each day in April, 2015. The National Board will determine which of the “wishes” will be met from the fund-raiser earnings. However, if raffles are not of interest to you, any donations that you are willing to make towards a particular “wish” would be gratefully received. Thank you and GOOD LUCK! Denise P. Bartlett, SUA Director of Special Projects Need additional entries? Copies accepted. Have questions? Contact Denise P. Bartlett at: Phone: 414.327.4990 or denisepbartlett@wi.rr.com How Does the Fund-Raiser Work? Everyone participating in the “April’s Showers of Wishes” Fund-Raiser has the chance to win cash prizes. Each day in the month of April, 2015, one winner will be chosen to win the listed cash prize for that day - $60, $130, or $200. In addition, each day the person or Branch that sold that day’s winning ticket will win $10. The daily winner and seller can be one and the same and win both prizes. In addition, the top sellers (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) will win $130, $90, and $50 respectively. Zarja - The Dawn By David G. Sodac A Neighborhood Grocery and Meat Market The “Boldan Family Estate” A typical inside layout of a neighborhood grocery and meat market. The bygone era of the walk-to, neighborhood, grocery market is an unfamiliar concept to many of today’s generation. Back in the early 1900s, there would be “mom and pop” grocerys sprinkled in most neighborhoods in towns everywhere. Many reflected the ethnic demographics of the neighborhoods in which the customer lived. The markets frequently specialized in the cultural foods and unusual ingredients necessary to prepare and cook a family’s favorite dish. Slovenian neighborhoods had Slovenian grocery markets, often run and operated by storekeepers who spoke the native tongue with ease. The markets offered the convenience of being able to just walk out your door and down the street to get the groceries and fresh, butchered meat for that night’s supper. They were similar to today’s “Quick Shops” and “Convenience Stores,” but back then they were the only grocery and meat market for many shoppers. In those days, the walk-to neighborhood market was a godsend for the many families that didn’t have refrigeration, besides the old icebox. In the late 1880s to 1900 Cleveland was emerging as a heavily Eastern European immigrant enclave, drawing thousands of Slovenians into its ethnic neighborhoods to work the railroad yards and factories. One of those immigrants, taken in by the allure of what shore-side Cleveland had to offer, worked as a boiler maker for the New York Central Railroad. His name March/April 2015 was Blaz Boldan. Blaz was the son of John Boldan and Mary Bobin. He was born January 30, 1881, in Gradec, Slovenia, and arrived in New York on September 22, 1901, settling into the “Little Slovenia” area of Cleveland, around St. Clair Avenue. He met a young Slovenian girl by the name of Anna Oberstar, the daughter of Stephan Oberstar and Ursula Videc, who had emigrated with their two daughters in 1890, from the village area of Prevole, Slovenia. Blaz and Anna married in January of 1903. The first of their seven children, Robert Blaz Boldan, was born in 1904 during their brief residence in Massillon, Ohio. The young Boldan family soon returned to Cleveland. Additional children were welcomed with the births of John, Josephine, Anna, Eugenia, and Joseph. By 1916, Blaz began working and gaining experience as a meat cutter, and hoping one day to own his own market. At one time, during the mid-1920s to mid-1950s, the city of Cleveland, Ohio, listed over 5,000 such markets. Generally they were only 20 to 30 feet wide and 40 to 60 feet deep with oiled, wooden floors. Most stores had a meat case and a butcher block which were generally situated at the back of the store. They were small by today’s standards, but highly functional. Blaz eventually scraped and saved to purchase in 1923, for the asking price of $6,000, a two-story building with a grocery storefront and opened a grocery and butcher 19 market situated smack-dab in the middle of a Slovene residential neighborhood, at 14401 Thames Street, in the South Collinwood area of Cleveland. The property offered a three bedroom apartment unit behind the storefront that accommodated the entire family and even gave breathing room to squeeze in baby Betty, who was born later in 1928. The second floor housed two apartments, each with two bedrooms. In the large attic was another makeshift apartment with one bedroom and a workshop, but no running water or bathroom. The two-story building jutted out to the sidewalk in contrast to the family homes that were set back further from the street. You couldn’t miss it. The grocery section was concisely arranged in front of the butcher counter and checkout area. There was a very narrow driveway on the east side of the building, with a two-car garage in the back. The backyard also was home to a chicken coop, a pigeon area, a doghouse, a bunch of beehives for honey, and many fruit trees. It was much more than a neighborhood grocery; grandson Robert Blaz Bolden affectionately embodies the building as the “Boldan Family Estate.” The back of the grocery storefront was home for the Boldan family. The three apartments upstairs were revolving doors for the comings and goings of various relatives. An Uncle John and Aunt Anna (Chase) Boldan and his first cousin, Joan, lived in one The marriage of Blaz Boldan and Anna Oberstar on January 7, 1903. 20 of the second floor apartments. Great-grandfather Stephan Oberstar eventually moved in with his daughter and her husband shortly after the death of his wife. The list of residents also included his grandson, Robert Blaz Bolden, Jr. Robert was born December 30, 1930, the son of Robert Blaz Bolden, Sr. and Christine Struna. Robert Jr.’s parents divorced seven years later, and finally at the age of 11, the day after Pearl Harbor was bombed, the Juvenile Court Judge allowed him to go live with his father. He moved in with his father in the attic apartment of the “Boldan Family Estate.” Eventually, Robert Jr. and his dad relocated into one of the second floor, two bedroom apartments after his father married Elizabeth Toth in 1942. They continued to use the attic as their tinkering workroom and setup spot for their shared love of being amateur, radio operators. Robert, Jr. described his Grandpa Blaz as “a little tyrant!” Grandpa was a short, stout man, only 5’6”and extremely overweight. He displayed very little tolerance for mischief and any wasted time from his grandchildren. “If you wanted affection and attention you went to grandma, she was the sweetest lady in the world!” he said. Grandpa Blaz would watch his grandson carefully around the store. All he ever allowed him to do was stock shelves and clean the chopping block, or sweep the wooden floors. Robert Jr. quipped, “The cash register was always off limits, and I don’t blame him! I was a nasty kid in those days.” On hot days, if he wanted a cold Coke to cool off, Robert Jr. was expected to pay for it by sweeping the floors clean, which Grandpa Blaz seemed to think was an all day job. Blaz Boldan’s intolerance for mischief from his grandchildren also carried over to any locals who tested his mettle. Robert Jr. recalls one such incident - “One evening, around supper time, we all heard a great deal of noise, so we rushed downstairs to see what was going on. When we got to the front of the store, my grandfather had this tall, skinny guy pushed up against the building and was beating him. The kid was a bloody mess. He had chanced an opportunity to steal from grandpa’s store, was chased after, and caught by grandpa. The police didn’t need to be called as word got around quickly, that one didn’t mess with grandpa. He never had any more problems after that incident.” Robert Jr. recalled the neighborhood area as a great place to be situated. It was centered around St. Mary of the Assumption Church, and the Slovenian National Home, both located on Holmes Avenue. Slovenian Polka King, Frankie Yankovic, also a South Collinwood native, played live polka in many of the taverns and dance halls in the area. When Robert Jr. and his buddies went out cruising for young Slovenian ladies on Saturday nights, the place to go was the Slovenian National Home located on 65th and St. Clair. Robert Jr. recalled, “There was always cheap beer, klobase, gorgeous girls, and of course a good Slovene polka band upstairs. I still don’t know how those girls could Zarja - The Dawn stand our breath with all the garlic and horseradish from the klobase!” back to Cleveland in 1966. Still having some military zeal in him, he volunteered in 1967 for a year with the U.S. Army in South VietAt the age of 69, Blaz Boldan nam. Following that stint, died on April 1, 1950. Robert Robert Jr. returned to work Jr. was stationed in Japan as a on staff at the Cleveland Sgt. in the Air Force when he Federal Aviation Agency received word, via the Red (FAA) office. In 1976, he Cross, that his grandpa had was offered and accepted a died. According to military supervisory position which regulations he wasn’t alprompted the relocation of lowed to return to the States his family to Columbus, for the funeral, as he was Ohio. In 1988, he retired only a grandson. Then a few The Slovenian National Home still stands at 65th and St. Claire Ave. in Cleveland’s Slovenian district. from the FAA. Robert Jr. months later Korea started up and he was on an LST (landing ship, tank) to Pusan. and his wife are currently residing in the Columbus, Ohio, It would be another year before he could return home to area. express his sympathies to his grandmother in person. After his grandfather’s death, the grocery store was closed for Robert Jr. has never forgotten his Cleveland roots. Being good. Robert Jr. said, “After I got home from my military raised above his grandparents’ grocery store has made a stint, I heard from my grandfather’s old cronies that he lasting impression. Family is important. Robert Blaz Boldused to brag about his Sgt. grandson in the Air Force. I en, Jr. relished his years living with so many family memnever heard him ever say anything nice to me in person.” bers in such an unusual housing arrangement. He loved being surrounded by the significant, Slovenian, immigrant The “Boldan Family Estate” is long gone, demolished in history of Cleveland. Growing up he learned to become the late 50s, along with most of the old Slovenian neigh- self-reliant, industrious, and mechanically and electrically borhood to make way for the new Interstate 90 that now proficient. Robert Jr. once wrote me, “Looking back and severs South Collinwood from North Collinwood. There remembering those days, I’d have to say they were pretty still exists melodic strains of Yankovic’s polka music, damn good days!” They definitely were! ethnic aromas of garlicky klobase, blood sausages, and baking sweet breads of potica in the air. A few of the National Slovenian Homes, which once numbered seven, still stand in the various neighborhood regions and are active venues for today’s Slovenian gatherings, celebrations, Author’s Note: dances, museums, and the sharing of many memories from Robert Blaz Bolden, Jr., is in my generation the massive immigration era into Cleveland. of descendants related Grandson Robert Blaz Bolden, Jr. moved out of the through the Oberstar Cleveland area following his return from service in the family lineage. His Air Force. He lived in South Carolina for a while, working grandmother, Anna for a Cleveland Electronics company based there, dealing (Oberstar) Boldan, with quality control equipment used in the textile industry. was a first cousin to Eventually, through his ham radio hobby, that was honed my maternal grandwhile living in the attic apartment above his grandfather’s mother, Antonija (Pagrocery market, Robert Jr. happened to talk to a guy in pež) Banko Muhich. Honolulu, HI. He mentioned employment positions in the We had never been Islands with what now is the Federal Aviation Administra- aware of each other’s tion. Robert Jr. was hired as a Federal employee in 1958 existence and in 2011 and headed for an Island in the South Pacific. He later was discovered the connec- Robert Blaz Boldan II, Blaz’ relocated to Honolulu where he met his future wife, Evelyn tion while doing family grandson who grew up living in Prior, from Manilla, Philippines. In 1960 they married in genealogy searches. the Boldan Grocery building. Honolulu and remained living there for the next seven Since that time, we years. Their two children, Diana Lyn and Robert Blaz III, have been in frequent written and phone communication, were born in Honolulu. Robert Jr. and his family moved exploring our families’ shared roots in Ohio and Illinois. March/April 2015 21 Živijo, Živijo, Zarja! Zarja! Tour Tour 2014 2014 A A14-day 14-day Tour Tour of of Slovenia, Slovenia, Part Part II II bbyy Mary Mary Lou Lou Deyak Deyak Voelk Voelk and and Marc Marc Judnick, Judnick, Photographer Photographer Živijo, Živijo, Zarja! Zarja!Tour Tour2014 2014 continues continues on on with with Days Days 44 through through 7.7. From From our ourcameras cameras to to your youreyes, eyes, these these are areour ourmemories. memories. Day Day4: 4:Our Ourday daybegan beganwith withthe thetrain trainride ridethrough throughthe thepicturesque picturesquePrimorsko Primorskoregion regionon onaa100 100year yearold old steam steamengine. engine.Our Ourtour tourbus buswas wasawaiting awaitingus usat atthe thedepot, depot,and andwe wewere wereoff offto tothe theStekar StekarVineyards. Vineyards.As As we westepped steppedoff offthe thebus, bus,we wecould couldhear hearthe thesounds soundsof ofaabutton buttonbox. box.ItItwas wasaawalk walkdown downaasteep, steep,curved, curved, cobblestone cobblestoneroad roadto tothe themain mainhouse. house.After Afterintroductions introductionsand andaatoast, toast,we wewere wereput putto towork workpeeling, peeling,dicing, dicing, and andchopping choppingthe theingredients ingredientsthat thatwould wouldbecome becomeour ourevening eveningmeal. meal.The Theingredients ingredientswere werewhisked whiskedoff offto to the thekitchen kitchento tobe becooked cookedor orbaked. baked.ItItwas wastime timeto torelax relaxunder underthe thearbor, arbor,sip sipsome somelocal localwine, wine,and andview view the theacres acresof ofvineyards. vineyards.The Thebutton buttonbox boxplayer playerentertained entertainedus uswith withlively livelyfolksongs folksongsand andhis hishair-styling hair-styling talents, talents,braiding braidingthe thelong longtresses tressesof ofseveral severalSlovenian-Americans! Slovenian-Americans!He Hetold toldus usof ofhis hisbraiding braidingthe thehair hairof of his histwo twodaughters daughtersevery everymorning morningbefore beforeschool. school.That Thatevening eveningwe wedined dinedon onthe thefood foodwe wehad hadprepared. prepared. With With happy happy hearts hearts we we departed departed in in procession procession fashion, fashion, the the tour tour group, group, the the staff, staff, and and the the button button box box player. player.ItItwas wasmusic musicall allthe theway wayto tothe thetour tourbus. bus. 22 22 Zarja Zarja--The TheDawn Dawn Day 5: It was Sunday morning when we arrived at Goče, a picturesque village, and population 185. First mentioned in the 14th century, Goče is now under heritage protection. It soon became obvious why the tour bus had parked on the outskirts of the tiny village. It was an a‘mazing’ walk to the parish church of St. Andrew. The cobblestone passageways were narrow and some buildings were barely one meter apart. We passed through a tunnel and found a courtyard with numerous door fronts of the locals’ homes. Their shallow, front yards became one big garden filled with vegetables and flowers. Oral tradition states that houses were built in close proximity, as the land belonged to the church. Living on church land exempted residents from military service. The thick walls were built from local stone; many buildings remained unplastered. It was not unusual to see one small window on an entire wall. Carved into door casings were dates from the 17th and 18th centuries. The oldest section of the village, located on two main streets, formed an Andrew’s Cross.*See separate article on the legend of St. Andrew on the inside cover of this issue. through the door. It was a small church, but so much for the eyes to take-in the main altar and side altars, columns, and stained glass. Voices from the choir loft filled the church, sounds as only Slovenians can deliver. In this hour, 32 Slovenian-Americans became bonded with their heritage. After the Mass, and just meters away, we found our way to the Cejkotova homestead. It was a delightful setting, sitting under an arbor and sampling the wines of the Cejtkotova vineyard. Lunch was served in the upstairs dining room. Each table was set with a tureen of soup, crusty bread, and honey wine. It was only the first course! Before leaving the village, we stopped at the cemetery; the chapel is dated 1687. We finally came to a lone, wooden door on this massive stonewall. Thirty-two Slovenian-Americans walked March/April 2015 23 It is no wonder that the symbols of Goče are grapevines, wine, and wine cellars. It is said there are over 60 wine cellars in Goče, perhaps one for every residence. We said goodbye to this extraordinary day and departed for the Adriatic Sea and the coastal town of Portoroz, where we would stay for the next three nights. It was dinner on our own. Many of us in the tour group found the seaside Prego Restaurant, where we dined on fresh, cooked mussels, salad, and Lasko pivo. Day 6: In the early morning we boarded a private cruise boat on the Adriatic. It was a beautiful sail to the medieval coastal towns of Piran and Izola, where we debarked to shop and explore. Back at the boat, the chef was preparing a special fish dinner, and delicious it was! 24 Zarja - The Dawn Day Day7:7:We Weheaded headedinland inlandtotothe theIstria Istriacountryside. countryside.Along Along the theway waywe westopped stoppedininHrastovlje Hrastovljeatatthe theChurch Churchofofthe the Holy HolyTrinity, Trinity,built builtbefore beforethe the15th 15thcentury centuryororatatthe thelatest, latest, by by1480. 1480.Renowned Renownedfor foritsitsfamous famousfrescoes; frescoes;they theywere were discovered discoveredinin1949 1949under underthe thewhitewash. whitewash.ItItisissaid saidthere thereisis “not “notaamore morethoroughly thoroughlypainted paintedchurch churchininSlovenia… Slovenia…some some ofofthe thebest bestpreserved preservedininSlovenia.” Slovenia.”The Theartist artistisisinscribed inscribed - -Johannes JohannesofofKastav. 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Vujovic.Her Herknowledge knowledge ofofregional regionalfolksongs folksongsand andlore loreand andher hertonal tonalvoice voicewas wasaa Upon Uponentering enteringthe thechurch, church,one oneisismet metwith withthe thesight sightofof true truegrand grandfinale finaleininPortoroz. Portoroz.ItItwas wassing-along sing-alongtime timelike like beautiful beautifulfrescoes frescoeseverywhere. everywhere.Labeled Labeledappropriately, appropriately, only onlySlovenians Slovenianscould coulddeliver. deliver. biblia bibliapauperum, pauperum,they theydepict depictthe thestories storiesininthe theBible, Bible,soso To Tobebecontinued… continued… paupers pauperscould couldunderstand understandthem. them. InInthe thecentral centralapse, apse,are arethe the12 12Apostles Apostlesand andthe theAltar Altarofof Grace. Grace.InInthe thelateral lateralaisles aislesare arestories storiesfrom fromGenesis Genesisand and Christ’s Christ’sPassion, Passion,the theMagi, Magi,and andscenes scenesofoffarm farmwork work symbolizing symbolizingthe the12 12months. months.Most Mostremarkable remarkableare arethe the scenes, scenes,Dance DanceofofDeath Death(Dance (DanceMacabre), Macabre),and andanananswer answer totothe thequestions, questions,What Whatare arewe? we?Where Whereare arewe wegoing? going?The The images imagesshow showaadance dancemacabre, macabre,ininwhich which11 11people peopleare are accompanied accompaniedby byskeletons skeletonsasasthey theyproceed proceedtowards towardsthe the tomb. tomb.ItItsignifies signifiesthe theequality equalityofofall allatatthe themoment momentofofdeath, death, whether whetherpope, pope,queen, queen,burgher, burgher,baby, baby,citizens, citizens,beggars, beggars, kings, kings,ororqueens. queens.The Themotif motifsupposedly supposedlyoriginated originatedfrom from the theepidemics epidemicsofofplague; plague;death deathcomes comestotoall. all.InInone onescene scene someone someoneisisoffering offeringgold goldcoins coinstotothe theskeleton skeleton- -aabribe! bribe! Where Wheredid didthis thistheme themeofofequality equalitycome comefrom? from?How Howcould could this thisdemonic demonicvision visionoccur occurininthe thesolitude solitudeofofthe theIstria Istriaofof Slovenia Sloveniaatatsuch suchaatime timeininhistory? history?ItItisisaasacred sacredstory, story, comprehensible comprehensibletotoall, all,educated educatedorornot, not,and andwhatever whatevertheir their March/April March/April2015 2015 2525 The Terselic Surname In North and South America by Richard A. Terselic 1972: View of Former Terselic Farm in Arnovo Selo. The January/February 2015 issue of Zarja included an excellent article by my friend, Charles F. Debevec, in which he shared his research on the Debevec surname in America and Slovenia. It prompted me to write a similar article sharing highlights of my 40 years of research related to the Terselic surname. Pursuing it created a trail that switched back and forth between North and South America and Slovenia, with notable success, as well as failures. I will draw upon material contained in The Terselic Family History, that I first wrote in1993. It was edited on the basis of new information and reissued in 2004 and 2013. Slovenia, in the lower Posavje area of Stajerska. Stajerska is on the east side of the Sava River. Dad’s father, Frank, was born in the village, Vihre, on the west side of the Sava River in Dolenjska. He was a younger brother and would not inherit the family property from his parents. It appears that is the reason he left Vihre, crossed the Sava River to Stajerska, and found work at the farm of the Lupsina family in Arnovo Selo. He later married their daughter, Marija. I was born on the east side of Cleveland to parents of Slovenian heritage. As best I knew, we were the only ones with the Terselic surname in a city with thousands of Slovenian heritage people. I did have two aunts living in Cleveland, my father’s married Terselic sisters. Their married names were Habinc and Gall. At some point I posed the question to my father (Anton - who went by Tony), “Were we unique in being named Terselic?” He answered that he had once been told that a man with the same name had lived in the Cleveland area but was not locatable either through friends or local data sources. Dad was sure the man would not have been related to us and may have died or moved from the area. Dad and his family had lived on a farm in the village, Arnovo Selo, located outside Brezice, in southeastern 26 About 1920 - Terselic Family: Top (left to right) Joseph, Frank, and Anton; Seated (left to right) Terezija, Mother Marija, Neza. Father Frank and daughter Anna not present. Zarja - The Dawn Grandfather Frank came to America in the early 1900s. His stated goal was to make enough money to permit buying more land for the family farm. He settled in the LaSalle/Peru, Illinois, area and worked in a factory. He moved from there to Racine in southeastern Wisconsin. The four eldest Terselic children, Frank, Anna, Neza, and Josef (Joseph), joined their father in Racine over the next few years. The remaining family members, including my Dad, his youngest sister, Terezija, and their mother, Marija, arrived together in Racine about 1920. Grandmother owned the farm in Arnovo Selo and sold it to cover passage. Four of the six children later moved from Racine to Chicago or Cleveland. In the late 1920s, Grandfather Frank abruptly left the family, destination unknown, never to return. My searches of public records failed to locate him. Son, Frank, and his wife settled in Chicago, where they learned two Terselich families were living. However, they never made contact with those families. In the course of my research I learned that both of those families had added the “h” to the name to ease pronunciation. In 1970, a gasoline credit card bill directed to my uncle, Joseph Terselic, in Racine, was delivered in error to John Terselic who lived in Oglesby, Illinois, in the LaSalle/ Peru area. The bill was kindly redirected to Joseph by the wife of John. The news of a Terselic in Oglesby stimulated my research. Before this time, my research was limited to following up with inquiry letters of Terselic/ Terselich mentions in Slovenian publications. With the aid of the internet, I was also able to follow up on Terselic and Terselich “hits” at genealogical websites, as well as by simply typing in the names at search engines. It sometimes proved hard to follow up on leads produced from such sources. When I traveled for business I would check local phone directories for Terselic listings, without success. I made a visit to the John Terselic family in Oglesby, Illinois, during the 1980s, and learned about John’s extensive family in the LaSalle/Peru area. In 2005, I was invited to a Terselic family reunion held outside LaSalle. I attended, met several of the family members, and collected genealogical information. The reunion was organized by Barbara Bruch, daughter of the late Elizabeth Terselic. Barbara is a member of SUA Branch 89 in Oglesby, Illinois. While I was nominated as an informal “cousin,” at that time we had not established a relationship between our respective Terselic families. Further aiding my research, in the early 1970s I began traveling to Yugoslavia, administering medical research contracts throughout the country for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. I had previous contact with Suhadolc family members of my mother who were living in March/April 2015 Slovenia. With their help I made trips to Arnovo Selo and Vihre during my visits. My Dad’s sister, Anna, had married a Habinc from Arnovo Selo and I met her husband’s relatives on the first trip. On another trip I visited Vihre and discovered Terselic relatives who recalled my grandfather Frank. Due to a pension issue involving a family member who had served with the French Foreign Legion, they used a different surname spelling - Trselic. I was later told that his spelling dates back 100 years or more. Two other fortuitous aids facilitated my research. First, my daughter, Susan, while in high school, had done extensive genealogy research on the families of her four great-grandparents, involving two families in Italy and two in Slovenia. I had access to the extensive materials she collected. Susan was a SWUA scholarship recipient. The second aid was another cousin of my mother, Peter (Suhadolc) Hawlina, head of the Slovenian Genealogy Society. When Peter and I began our collaboration, computers were beginning to make important progress in tracking Slovenian family genealogies. Peter was kind in sharing his files on the Terselic, Terselich, and Trselic surnames. I contributed the information I had collected to him and he incorporated it into his files. An important contact occurred in the early 1990s in the form of a letter I received from Nada Maric. Born in Slovenia, she lived in Connecticut and worked for a pharmaceutical firm. She had read a story in an industry trade publication about me. I followed up and found she had been born a Terselic, in Veliki Podlog, near Vihre. As best we could determine at the time, we were not related. She reported that Terselic was a regional name and that numerous families sharing the name lived in Dolenjska and Stajerska. Suggesting the extent, she recalled two Terselics being married in her home area who were not related. My checks of the Slovenian telephone directory showed a few Terselics scattered around Slovenia, but with most in Dolenjska and Stajerska. The phone listing included a family member from Vihre who had moved to Krajn. Another fortuitous connection came from my internet searches. Numerous “hits” involved a peace activist, Vesna Terselic, who lived in Zagreb, Croatia. I wrote to her and she connected me with her father, Marjan, a retired Yugoslav army officer, who also lived in Zagreb. During a tour I took to Croatia in 2005, I met with him and he provided data on his family. As in the case of Nada Maric, the data provided by Marjan did not disclose a relationship to my family. I found that the LaSalle/Peru, Illinois, family had its origins in Skopice, a village located near Vihre. A number of the other families of which I was aware, and whose members came to North and South America, also had ties to Skopice. By 2010 I had 27 28 T E R S E L I C charted all the information I had collected about the various Terselic, Terselich, and Trselic families. The charts covered six, then-unconnected, families: one in Canada; one in Columbia, South America; two in Chicago; one in LaSalle/Peru; and my own. All the families had their origins in the Stajerska/ Dolenjska area. With chart updates provided by Peter Hawlina, I was able to establish links among the other five families, but not to my own. However, one Saturday morning in 2013, while reviewing the charts, it dawned on me that I recalled a name appearing on the combined charts of the others as well as my own. The charts involved hundreds of named individu- 1944: Grandmother Marija and Grandson Richard. als. I was correct and the link proved to be Ivana Pirc, who had married Josef Terselic in 1915. Finding the connection established that all the Terselics and Terselichs of which I was aware were related. Excluded from this generalization are persons about whom I had seen only single mentions in the many sources I researched, but could not verify. I’ll share a few comments related to the families I studied. *The Terselic family unit in Canada was the smallest (a husband and wife and their son) and about which I was able to collect the least information. *The family in Columbia, South America, is quite large and several members have immigrated to southern states in the United States. Just like the family in Canada, they had arrived at their destinations after World War II when the international agencies resettled displaced persons. *All, but two, of the first generation members of the two Chicago Terselich families born in America had died before I reached them. The first replied to my inquiry letter before his death and provided valuable history. I interviewed the second in a hospital in northern Indiana shortly before her death. She also provided valuable information about her family as well as their connection to the LaSalle/Peru Terselics. *Persons familiar to Zarja writers - David Sodec and David Smukovic - were persons with whom I had contact during my research. David Sodec has family connections to the LaSalle/Peru Terselics. David Smukovic provided to me photos he took of Terselic mentions in old church records during his extensive studies of church records that led to the book described in the Zarja article about the 2014 SUA trip to Slovenia. In closing, I extend an invitation to persons who share my interest in the Terselic surname to contact me at rat1@verizon.net. Zarja - The Dawn 40+ Years of Research In my 40+ years of researching the Terselic surname and my family history I have learned things that may be helpful to others engaged in similar pursuits. *Genealogical research opportunities have greatly improved, based on availability of new or enhanced data sources. When I began, computers were not in common use and collecting data was labor intensive. Very important to my early research, was having living, family members who could be interviewed and who might have historical materials and knowledge to share. I began when several of my Terselic family members had already died. Their children (my first cousins) became my primary information sources. While some proved to be good sources, others hadn’t learned much about the stories of their parents coming to America and their early experiences. In some cases, information shared proved to be sketchy or was later found to be inaccurate. Sometimes the children chose not to share family information that dealt with topics they considered to be “family sensitive.” *Before automation of historical records, seeking out vital statistics information was either unavailable or required writing letters, paying fees, and waiting a long time for responses. In the case of my grandfather, Frank Terselic, I had only a vague idea as to where he might have gone after leaving the family. Inquiry letters to the vital statistics officials in states surrounding Wisconsin produced no information. He might not have been covered by Social Security, therefore that information source could not be tapped. In recent years the extent of automation of data bases has vastly improved and much such data may be available. In the case of my grandfather, the best lead came from a letter he had sent to his family in Vihre after leaving Wisconsin, indicating he was “taking an ironhorse (train) to Detroit.” I was told about this letter during a visit there. *Writing letters to both family members and strangers poses problem. Letter recipients may be concerned about uninvited letters asking for what they may consider personal information. Others may be willing to provide information, but are unaccustomed to writing lengthy replies. Phone interviews pose similar limitations. In today’s world of scams, it is understandable that strangers may be hesitant to cooperate. The ideal case of a researcher sending a single letter to a person in a village in Slovenia (where a family member was believed to have lived) and getting a detailed reply, would seem to have limited prospects of success. *Leads collected from online sources can vary greatly in quality, and may be difficult to validate. In my case, online sources gave fragmentary, single mention leads to Terselic surname persons who, it was suggested, had connections to particular locations. I invested considerable effort unsuccessfully following up such mentions in places such as the desert of northern California, outside Cleveland in Ohio, and Forest City, Pennsylvania. However, if your desire is great enough, following such mentions can become challenging parts of the search. In this regard, I have the upmost respect for seasoned genealogists such as George Plautz, who has published extraordinarily detailed data here in Zarja, as the product of his exhaustive research. - Richard A. Terselic March/April 2015 29 Slovenian Union of America Branch Reports BRANCH 1 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin Contact Information: Mary Ann Schellinger 920.457.7946/rhmas@yahoo.com Well, the end of the year found members of Branch 1 gathering at the KC Hall for their Christmas party. Three Guys and a Pizza Pie provided catering and a yummy buffet was served which included gourmet ham, grilled turkey, and, of course, all the fixings that go with it - including “Pink Tea.” A really unique group in the community provided the entertainment. “They are not penguins, they are not nuns, they are not even Catholic… they are the Sisters of the Moonlight.” These ladies are members of a small group ministry of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Sheboygan and they share God’s love and joy through music and laughter. It was a take off on the “Sister Act” movies. “Sister Mary Merry Maid” was walking among the group dusting off many balding heads and “Sister Mary Vince Lombardi” was donning a cheese head and ref’s whistle and had the group participating in the act. I think everybody’s tummy could be found jiggling, “like a bowl full of jelly,” just like Santa Claus. In keeping with the spirit of sharing with others for the holidays, our members donated 167 pair of hats and mittens, which were distributed to the needy in the community. Many of the items were homemade and one member, just 30 by herself, made 55 items. With such a busy time during the holidays, a couple of our members managed to set aside a day to get together to make potica. Marilyn Hendricks shared her newly remodeled kitchen with Denise Schueffner to bake “many batches” of the famous Slovenian nut roll. I think they even took time for a sip or two of wine in front of the fireplace while waiting for the dough to raise. What a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday season - sharing your time with friends. MARY ANN SCHELLINGER BRANCH 2 - Chicago, Illinois Contact Information: Judy Stoll 708.479.2864/judystoll@att.net Spring greetings to all Branch 2 members! We enjoyed a wonderful Christmas party at Ignotz Restaurant in Chicago. Twenty-three members and guests were present to celebrate the holiday together and indulge in the great food. Our Branch extends condolences to the Pohar family on the passing of John Pohar, father of SUA’s President Bonnie Prokup and Vice President Debbie Pohar. We will remember him in our prayers. Anthony Podder made grandmother, Mary Podder, very Zarja - The Dawn proud when he was chosen as an Illinois High School Varsity Hockey All-Star this season. Jennifer Kochniardzyk, RN, BSN, reached her life long goal when she also earned her MBA this year. Congratulations to both of you!! Sisters Lorraine and Judy Ovnik will share our 2015 Member of the Year award. Both are very active members of Branch 2 and are always willing to help out and join in whenever needed. Our thanks to them also for volunteering to be our representatives at the SUA National Convention in June. Don’t forget to join us at our next meeting, which will be held at Portillo’s restaurant, located on Harlem and Archer, on Thursday, April 23, at 1:00 p.m. Please call me if you have any questions or comments at 708.479.2864. JUDY STOLL BRANCH 3 - Pueblo, Colorado Contact Information: Annette Charron amtcharron@yahoo.com Early December 2014 was filled with holiday activities for Branch 3 members. On Tuesday, December 2, the annual Christmas luncheon took place at Park East Restaurant. President Marge Cullen introduced Peggy Martin, Branch 3’s newest member, who was attending her first Branch activity. All attendees brought Santa gifts to share, and everyone left the event with a hostess gift. Madeleine Khosla also gave each participant a favor bag filled with participated in the annual St. Mary’s Church St. Nicholas Feast Day Mass, which was followed by a Slovenian dinner in the church hall. Father Ben Bacino celebrated the Mass. Parishioners brought a mountain of gifts to the altar during the offertory. The gifts surrounded the statue of St. Nick and were given to needy children in the Pueblo area served by Catholic Charities. Before the recessional, member Madeleine Khosla read A Legend of St. Nicholas, a children’s book written by longtime Branch 3 member, Bernice Krasovec. At the feast day dinner, St. Nicholas (Father Ben), made an appearance to the delight of all of the children, young and old. St. Nick personally visited with children in the church hall during the delicious dinner, which featured klobase and sauerkraut. Regular monthly Branch 3 meetings resumed on Tuesday, February 3. ANNETTE SABO CHARRON & BARBARA KARLINGER BRANCH 5 - Indianapolis, Indiana Contact Information: Phyllis Fon phyllisswu5@aol.com Wonderful Spring Greetings to all Branch 5 Members! As warmer weather approaches, so do thoughts of spring rains, snowdrop crocus, creamy yellow daffodils, and early spring mix from my lettuce garden! Oh yes, and chickens. CHICKENS? Yep, I said chickens, or more precisely, eggs. Eggs are the eternal symbol of new birth, or rebirth, a symbol of change... and we all know it is never too late to change. Eggs for Easter are dyed many colors of the rainbow, and are braided into breads, piled high into baskets, and hidden around yards for hunting by young and old alike. My niece, Julie, has chickens. The “girls,” as she calls them, are kept in a coop in a small, fenced area. But when Julie is home, she takes out a lounge chair and a good book, sets it in the middle of the yard, and lets the “girls” out of their pen. As she relaxes and reads, the hens surround her, eating the grass, and getting their exercise. Julie keeps a Members Judy Kochevar, Bernice Krasovec, and Kathy Kochevar at the annual Branch 3 Christmas Luncheon. festive goodies. After lunch, attendees played Saints Bingo, a game created by Marge Cullen using Saints’ names in place of numbers. Millie Stofac won the handmade afghan that was raffled off to members at the party. The beautiful afghan was designed and made by luncheon guest Marilyn Miller. The proceeds of the afghan raffle were donated to the fund for the restoration of the bells of St. Mary’s Church. Luncheon attendees also contributed to the SWU Scholarship Foundation. On Saturday, December 6, many Branch 3 members March/April 2015 Enjoying their annual Holiday Feast is Marc and Rosalie Hetzner, Pete and Mary Barbarich, and Rick and Genita Brodnick. 31 long branch handy, and when the hens start to stray, she raises the branch and twirls it overhead in a large circle. The hens come running back to her, happy and cackling all the way. They lay the most beautiful brown eggs, with huge, deep yellow-orange yolks. Can you imagine the old Slovenian homesteads, with freerange chickens running all around, their owner coming out with a bowl of grain or scraps once a day? She wouldn’t have time to sit in the yard with the chickens, because of all the other chores she would have to do before having to get the next meal on the table. And if those chickens didn’t lay eggs, they were the next meal on the table! Still, spring eggs symbolized a freshness and a new beginning, even for the poorest of households. May this Spring bring a revitalization to your soul, and a promise of a new season of surprises. We had a very nice turnout for our holiday gathering at Iron Skillet restaurant; thank you to all who attended! It Katie Poole serving Krofe for dessert at Sausage Feast! Members Sara Cline and Anna Fon ready to sample sausages at the Sausage Feast! 32 always is the starting point to our holiday season! We also thank everyone who attended the annual Sausage Feast at the Slovenian National Home! The aroma from the cooking of fresh, smoked, and blood sausage, com- Former SWU Scholarship winner, Betsy Walker , one of the chief cooks at Sausage Feast, takes a break to enjoy a blood sausage dinner. bined with steaming sauerkraut, potatoes, and hot, hardcrust bread is always overwhelming... but in a very good way! We were all very thankful this year that both A 95th birthday surprise for one of our oldevents had est Branch 5 members, Mary Vertacnik Fon. Fr. Christian Gostecnik, with friends Mihah very lovely and Sonja, came from Slovenia, Gary Gos- weather, and tecnik, Texas, and Corinne Leskovar, Chica- everyone had a safe trip go, for a special visit. home. Please watch the Slovenian National Home website for our upcoming SUA Friday night dinner. We will also host a Friday night dinner in May to honor our Member of the Year. A Happy and Blessed Easter to all. MARY, KAREN, & PHYLLIS BRANCH 13 - San Francisco, California Branch 13 has sad news to report. Our member, Barbara Chiodo, passed away December 1, 2014. Barbara was the daughter of the late Joseph and Frances Pechavar Chiodo and the sister of Beverly Jackson and the late Stephen Chiodo. Barbara was raised on Potrero Hill, three blocks from the Slovenian Hall, and her parents owned the grocery store across from the Hall on Vermont and Mariposa Streets. Barbara followed in the footsteps of her mother Zarja - The Dawn and sister by being the Zarja reporter for Branch 13. Barbara was past president of the Board of Directors at the Slovenian (Hall) Progressive Home, San Francisco, CA, chairperson of the 1995 SWUA National Convention held in San Francisco, Branch 13 Member of the Year in 2009, and was past recording secretary. We send our sympathy to Barbara’s sons, Joseph Rathbun and David Rathbun, and their families, and to her sister, Beverly Jackson, niece Janet Jackson, and family. Rest in peace, Barbara. On a happier note, our Member of the Year 2015 Luncheon, will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2015, 12:00 p.m., at Val’s Restaurant, 2468 Junipero Serra Blvd., Daly City, CA, at a cost of $35.00 per person. We have such a wonderful time. Please join us. We want to wish everyone a very Happy Easter. MOREEN SPENCER BRANCH 16 - South Chicago, Illinois Contact: Marjorie Mitchell 773.646.4392/Dolores60617@yahoo.com Our annual Christmas party was held at The Cavalier Inn in Hammond, IN, on December 13, where the “Member of the Year” was announced. Rosemary Petrich was selected for this honor. Make your reservation for the ceremonial luncheon on May 13, 2015, at Tom’s Restaurant in Calumet City. We will have more information when our meetings resume on March 14, 2015. Mary Jane Strus at 773.768.5127 will be accepting reservations. Please try to stay warm, and above all, HEALTHY. DOLORES KRAL FRANKO BRANCH 20 - Joliet, Illinois Contact Information: Diane Hohenwater dhohenwater@comcast.net We are very proud to share the accomplishments of a young Branch 20 member. Nicholas A. Vidmar graduated on December 13, 2014, from the University of St. Francis, magna cum laude, with B.A. degrees in both history and psychology. Nicholas was inducted into Duns Scotus (USF Honor Society, four-year Fellow), Delta Epsilon Sigma (National Catholic Honor Society), Phi Alpha Theta (National History Honor Society) and Psi Chi (National Psychology Honor Society). Nicholas is a 2007 graduate of St. Joseph Grade School and a 2011 graduate of Joliet Catholic Academy. Nicholas was also the recipient of a Branch 20 high school scholarship. Nicholas is the son of Sandra and Michael (Mike)Vidmar; Mike was Branch 20’s 2011 Member of the Year. Nicholas’ late grandmother, Adrianna Vidmar, was also a Branch 20 member. Congratulations to Nick! We are mourning the loss of our member, Helen Benac, as well as Jerry Herbst, the beloved husband of our longtime treasurer, Jean Herbst. Jerry accompanied Jean to many Branch events, and he will be missed by many of us. March/April 2015 Thank you to everyone who turned out for our Christmas party. The appetizer, pot luck format worked well. We enjoyed a variety of wonderful food, as well as potica, Slovenian wine, and Laško beer. Our St. Joseph Table dinner will be held on Tuesday, March 17, at St. Joseph Park, with dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a brief meeting. Everyone attending is asked to bring a dish to pass. We welcome memNicholas A. Vidmar bers and their guests. On March 21 and 22, we will hold our annual Bakery Sale at St. Joseph Church before and after all Masses. Your participation is greatly appreciated, whether you donate baked goods or contribute money. We hope to see you at one of our events! DIANE HOHENWATER BRANCH 24 - LaSalle, Illinois Contact Information: Loretta Story 9_lives@att.net At our November meeting, member Helen Millman spoke to us of her family’s life, struggle, and hardships Helen Millman and her daughter Debbie. 33 in Yugoslavia and their journey to America in 1950. We were mesmerized by her account of what life was like, with its joys and fears, happiness and tears. When Franc and Maria Knap, along with their six children, came to this country, they settled in the Illinois Valley and made a better life by continuing their strong work ethic. Helen’s daughter, Debbie, accompanied her mother and shared family photos with us. Our December Christmas party, held at Oak Ridge in La Salle, was highly enjoyed by the 40+ members and guests attending. Hostesses - Linda Struna, Martha Lushina, Mary Mecum, Robbie Donohue, and Olivia Karun - did a beautiful job with table decorations, prizes, and a beautiful tribute by Linda, regarding the Slovenian Christmas traditions. We were saddened by the death of member, Minnie Carter, who turned 100 years old in September. She passed away on December 26, leaving behind wonderful memories for her family and all those who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace. The Illinois Valley was saddened by the unexpected death of John Pohar, Jr. of La Salle. He was the husband of Barbara, father to Bonnie (Bill) Prokup, Debbie (Don Baldin) Pohar, Cathy (Scott) Lenkaitis, and John (Jill) Pohar III. Seven grandchildren, three sisters, one brother, and many nieces and nephews also survive him. In high school John started working with his father hauling coal and in 1966 John, along with his father, brother, Frank, and sister, Josephine, established John Pohar and Sons, Inc., an excavating company. The company has grown over the years and its reputation for good and honest work is second to none. John instilled his Slovenian work ethic in his family and also his work family. We extend our deepest sympathy to Barbara and the Pohar family. His death is a loss, not only for the family, but also for the whole community. May he rest in peace. Following a January and February hiatus, our Branch will kick it in gear in March, when we are looking forward to meeting in the former St. Roch’s Church once again. Our focus will be on Our Lady of Brezje, patron of Slovenia. Spring can’t come soon enough and with it comes new life. Our Branch will continue its successful course with Diane Data, President; Linda Struna, Vice President; Lois Hollerich, Treasurer; and Shirley Eide, Secretary. Please pray for all men and women in the Armed Forces and for the innocent victims of religious persecution throughout the world. Until next time, may your hearts be filled with peace and love. LORETTA STORY BRANCH 35 - Aurora, Minnesota Contact Information: John Stark johnks6@yahoo.com Our Branch is deeply saddened by the loss of Anne Orazem. The Branch has lost a wonderful and wise member of longstanding! Our condolences to her family. She was a wonderful woman of wisdom and I called her our resident advisor. We will all miss her! In January, we had our ‘get together’ at the beautiful home of member Johnny Snidarich! It was a potluck of Slo- Tom and Tina Bajda dancing venian dishes. to the polka music. We had a lot of good food and button-accordion music by Johnny Snidarich and John Stark. Johnny and his wife, Sam, were so gracious in sharing their wonderful home with our Branch Six new members with Johnny Snidarich: (left to right) Ava Baumgard, Tresa Baumgard, Holly Bamgard, Josie Baumgard, Angela Seline, and Jean Seline. members. Johnny has been collecting antiques since he was 13 and has built a beautiful home to display his vast collection. He did all the planning and decorating himself. We were amazed at his talent to artistically coordinate 34 Zarja - The Dawn BRANCH 43 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin Contact Information: Jan Gehm 414.321.1413/twogames@wi.rr.com Happy New Year! Srecno Novo Leto! After weeks of social activities, things have quieted down and we can look forward to spring activities. Our bake sale in November was a huge success, thanks to all of the generous bakers and to those who were able to help at the sale. It was a sellout long before the polls closed. Dobie - The Concertina Man, Lynda Broucek, John Cerar, and Jackie Smith. Newest member: Josie Baumgard enjoying hot chocolate. all his many items. Since we were still in the Christmas season, most rooms also had a wonderfully decorated tree. New officers for 2015 are: Co-Presidents: Vida Lanari and Tina Bajda, Treasurer and Secretary remain the s a m e , B e rnice Cellar and Sharon Starkovich, respectively. Jean Stark is Sergeant-atArms and myself, Marlys Raab, reporter. Dime auction will be at our March meeting with proceeds going New co-presidents: to the Activity Tina Bajda and Vida Lanari. Department at the Northern Pines Nursing Home in Aurora. MARLYS RABB March/April 2015 Lynda Broucek, John Cerar, Jerry Floryance, and Gene Nimmer. Lynda Broucek, John Cerar, Jackie Smith, Tom Gehm, Pat Peavy, and Diane Floryance. Our last meeting of the year was preceded by a delicious lunch and a talk about the traditional St. Nicholas celebrations in Slovenia, told by Helen Frohna. Since it was “show and tell,” a few members displayed and explained some of their precious items from Slovenia. It was decided at this meeting that we will celebrate with all the male members of our Branch as Members of the Year as we do appreciate their help and membership. More on this celebration will follow. Members and guests attending the New Year’s Eve Party had a wonderful time. At 5:00 p.m. (midnight in Slovenia), 35 a champagne toast was given in English and Slovenian. The music by Dobie, the Concertina Man, was wonderful, the food great (thanks to many members), the door prizes were plentiful, and all enjoyed Janet and John Cerar camaraderie. Po Bozicna Zabava was held on January 10, and all who attended enjoyed the food, raffle prizes, and gift exchange. Preceding our luncheon prayer, member Helen Frohna had us all reflect on things that would improve our lives for 2015. Following our delicious lunch, member Fannie Smole installed the Branch officers for 2015. Lynda Broucek and Gene Nimmer REMINDER! You are invited to join us at Triglav Park in Wind Lake on Saturday, March 28, starting at 10:00 a.m. to make butare and then join us for the 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church on Sunday, March 29, for blessing of the butare and procession into church. Please wear your Narodna noša or a red Jan and Tom Gehm carnation. This 36 is our traditional Palm Sunday Mass and a social gathering will take place in the church hall immediately following the Mass. How about making a New Year’s Resolution to attend our monthly meetings and luncheons held at the West Allis Library? Please refer to your calendars for exact times. We hope to see you there. MARY BREGANT BRANCH 47 - Garfield Heights, Ohio Contact Information: Debbie Duris 330.467.2281/dcduris@gmail.com Greetings! Thank you to our members who attended our Christmas luncheon. Everyone that attended had a wonderful time. Our officers this year are - President/Recording Secretary - Debbie Duris, Vice President - Diane Fornaro, Treasurer - Lynn McKettrick and auditors - Ginger Kemmerling and Katherine Wallace. Thank you for serving our Branch members. I would like to encourage members to attend our luncheon on Saturday, May 2, at 1 p.m. at the Burntwood Tavern on Kruse Drive in Solon. To get Branch information contact Debbie at her home (see her contact info above). Wishing everyone a Happy and Blessed Easter. I’d love to share any member stories, call me on my cell 330.730.8951 or e-mail me at kjferrante@gmail.com. KATHLEEN FERRANTE BRANCH 50 - Euclid, Ohio Contact Information: Rick Tomsick 440.655.6735/ricktomsick@gmail.com Greetings from the “5-0” on America’s North Coast, Cleveland, Ohio! It’s not easy to live in this climate during this time of year, but as they say, “Za lepoto se trpi!” Our first meeting of the year will be on April 15 at the Euclid Public Library. Come celebrate Tax Day with us! I am very sorry to report that Pat Budzilek’s husband, Ron, passed away on December 20, 2014, following surgery. Let’s keep Pat in our prayers. I also learned from Connie Smith that her mother, Helen Kovacevic, a long time Branch 50 member, passed away in September in Pennsylvania. Let’s each remember to keep one another and all members of Branch 50 and all of the SUA in our prayers, especially remembering the dead and the poor souls in purgatory, and those they have left behind, to bring comfort and joy to all who mourn. Please write to me at ricktomsick@gmail.com with any family news and I will add you to our list of updates for Branch 50 (you don’t need to be a member of Branch 50). That’s all for now. Many thanks to everyone for all you do in SUA! RICK TOMSICK Zarja - The Dawn BRANCH 93 - New York, New York Contact Information:Elizabeth Gross 718.335.8459/Lizg669@gmail.com We are launching a 2015 Slovene “Study-Buddy” project where “Slovene Conversation Online-Pogovorna slovenščina preko spleta” participants are using the GoToMeeting platform in groups of two or three to practice live Slovenian conversation, review points of grammar, nuances of vocabulary, history, geography, ancestry, and culture. As we discovered in our two or three pilot sessions, for a small country, there is a wealth of all of the above, with plenty of diversity in the mix. We also came to more deeply appreciate the hours and hours our teachers (Mia Rode, Ria Whitmire, and Joan Walker) have put into developing our previous sessions as we scrambled to devise how we could make our mini-groups the most productive. Even before the online classes, most of us had attempted to learn Slovenian, either with a brief class in Ljubljana (the lucky ones!), or with teach-yourself books and DVDs, a variety of dictionaries, and we shared what materials were the most helpful (or what we enjoyed the most - well, listening to Vlado Kreslin singing najbrž must be improving my accent), but we also knew how much better a real, live teacher was! We are very happy to learn our teachers are willing to get together with us once a month to resolve grammar points we are totally stumped with and resolve any hotly, contested disputes. Plans are afoot for truly spectacular Prešeren Day festivities - read about it in the next Zarja! And if you’re in New York City for a visit, take the opportunity to hear Mass in Slovenian at Church of St. Cyril, 62 St. Marks Place, at 10:30 a.m. Sunday mornings - followed on the third Sunday of every month by Slovenian Cultural Hour and a klobasa lunch. ELIZABETH GROSS March/April 2015 BRANCH 99 - Lemont, Illinois Contact Information: Jana Hlade jmhlade@hotmail.com Greetings fellow members! Wishing you warm wishes for spring! After so many cold days this winter, it’s a relief to feel some warm weather. By this time you should have received the new calendar of events for Branch 99. Remember that some of the activities require a reservation. Please see the calendar for details. If you did not receive a calendar, please contact Julie LaJoie at jamp817@comcast.net or 630.854.5400. The Convention Committee has been diligently making plans for the 27th National Convention that our Branch is hosting this June in Naperville and Lemont. There are many fun activities planned, including a Welcome event, Lippizan Horse show, Beehive Presentation, Slovenian Fashion Show, Polka Dance Lessons, Potica Contest, visit from Slovenian Ambassador Dr. Božo Cerar, and a Mass, Grotto Tour, and Picnic and Art show at the Slovenian Catholic Center. The Chicago Marriott Naperville hotel is offering our Convention attendees a special room rate, which includes a full breakfast. Registration and hotel reservations are now underway and can be completed by mail or online. Details are in this issue. If you have any questions, please contact the Chairperson, Julie LaJoie. We truly hope you will be able to join us at the Convention. Come for part of it or stay for all events. It will be a great time! You won’t want to miss it! Wishing you a very Happy Easter and spring season! JANA HLADE BRANCH 100 - Southern California Contact Information: Jean Koci ajkoci@cox.net/949.495.0097 The Christmas season is over and we are about halfway through January, as I write this report. Southern California is enjoying some much-needed rain at the moment, so we are blessed. The Christmas celebrations were enjoyed among our Slovenian community, as well as our families and friends, and we have much for which to be thankful. Branch 100 celebrated with our annual Christmas Luncheon at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant in Loma Linda on Saturday, December 13. We were honored to have Fr. Peter Rožič, s.j. as our guest at this gathering. This is the first time that he has been able to present his ASEF program to us as a group, although during the past year and a half or more, he has visited with several families individually, where we learned of this Ken and Teresa Koci with Fr. Peter Rožič. 37 worthy endeavor. We were delighted when he was able to Looking forward to seeing many of you on March 14 spend the rest of the weekend with us for another gather- and then several weeks later for the Member of the Year ing here in La- Luncheon. guna Niguel, JEAN KOCI where members of our BRANCH 102 - Willard, Wisconsin church came Branch 102 members got together on December 6 for b y t o m e e t their Christmas meeting. After a prayer, the group dug into him. St. Tim- the potluck lunch. Members Ruth Zwieg, Sarah Trunkel, othy’s Church Candy Johnson, and Megan Johnson brought food reminisis becoming cent of their recent trip to Slovenia. There was prosciutto, quite familiar capocollo, salami, provolone and Swiss cheeses, roast pork with the Slo- (of course), and a gnocchi casserole. Slivovitz also made venian culture an appearance, but no one was brave enough to take a sip. Rosemarie Black, Mary Lou Vidergar, with Fr. Peter Along with the other salads, casseroles, desserts, and wine Francine Phaller, and Marcia Leathers at concelebrat- - it was a feast! SUA Luncheon. ing Mass sevNew at this meeting was the Junior Members Report. eral times now, as well as the four concerts featuring the Megan Johnson announced she would be graduating from Slowind Quintet from Ljubljana over the past 13 years. the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a Bachelor of SciOur pastries have been featured during bake sales and ence Degree in Professional Communication and Emerging international programs, as well. It’s amazing how many Media. In January she will be traveling to Central America Slovenians or other Slavic people come “out of the wood- for some relaxation and adventure. She will be gone for two work” when we talk about these ethnic connections! and a half months visiting Mexico, Guatamala, Nicaragua, Important business was handled at the meeting held in Honduras, and Costa Rica. Sandy Brierton told about her connection with our Christmas program. The election of recent trip to the Mall of America. Michael Brierton reofficers resulted in all those serving continuing for another ported that he will be transitioning from Cub Scouts to Boy year. Dorothy Jerneycic gave a report on the teleconference Scouts in 2015 and is in the process of earning the Arrow of with other Member Representatives of the Branches and Light. To do this Michael has to earn 19 badges. Being an National Officers of SUA. We are happy that she will be overachiever, Michael is on his way to earning 20 badges. a delegate to the upcoming Convention. Michael also is the Mary Lou Jensen and Paul Jensen plan on attendPresident of Student ing, as well. Francine Phaller was elected to be the Council this year and Branch 100 Member of the Year. You will hear much is learning Parliamore about Francine in the next issue of Zarja. She mentary Procedure, is certainly worthy of this honor! so he was helping Also decided at this meeting was the location and keep his mom, SUA date of our next cooking/baking class. Bonney Branch 102 President Zupan again volunteered to host the event on SaturBonnie Brierton, leday, March 14, at her home in Banning. Notices will gal in how she was be sent out with directions. I believe we will be bakrunning the meeting. ing lemon strudel. I hope that most of you will have Officers were electreceived a notice by now for that yummy baking day, ed at this meeting. and that you plan on attending. Bonney has been Bonnie Brierton very generous several times in offering her fantastic President, Teresa kitchen. Last year we were at Lina Kerwick’s home Zorman - Vice presiin San Juan Capistrano, which was also a beautiful dent, and Sue Pakiz location. Our members cover a very large area so Secretary/Treasurer. meetings are sometimes 80 or 90 miles distant for Sarah Trunkel was some of us, but we always manage to have a nice chosen as the Memnumber of participants. This is true dedication, and ber of the Year. the fact that we really enjoy being together. Long-time member We send best wishes to our members who are ill and former Branch or are otherwise having a difficult time, especially UW-Stout graduate Megan Johnson and 102 President Rose her (VERY) proud mom, Candy Johnson! former president, Anne Kapel. Pakiz passed away 38 Zarja - The Dawn in September 2014. Her daughter-in-law, Sue Pakiz, gave some of Rose’s Slovenian memorabilia to members as door prizes. These items will be treasured by those lucky enough to receive them. BONNIE BRIERTON BRANCH 108 - Olney, Maryland Contact Information: Bernadette Fitzsimmons bettekfitz@verizon.net A number of Branch members and guests attended the Independence and Unity Day of the Republic of Slovenia reception held on December 22 at The Embassy of Slovenia in Washington, D.C. It was in honor of the 24th anniversary of the independence referendum to adopt the Constitution of the Republic of Slovenia. Ambassador Dr. Cerar and his wife, Dr. Martina Skok, welcomed guests for this celebratory gathering. In Dr. Cerar’s speech, he emphasized the importance of positive relations between the U.S. and Slovenia in the years past. It was a pleasure for all to visit the Embassy to enjoy the Christmas tree, opening day art exhibit, and socializing at the elegant reception. The current exhibition of paintings is by the renowned Slovenian painter and art professor, Andrej Schlegel. “New York 1987 – 2014” will remain on display for visitors at the Embassy through April 22, 2015. The drawings are striking depictions of NYC, but one of the most poignant paintings on exhibit commemorates the victims of September 11 in an impressive ink-on-paper visual depiction of the attack on the World Trade Center in 2001. Branch 108 members met in February for a Mardi Grad Pust Luncheon and recognition of the significance of Pust in Slovenia, and associated traditions. Vesele velikonočne praznike in veliko pirhov želimo od podružnice 108. Branch 108 wishes everyone Happy Easter holidays, and many colorful eggs. May you share the tradition of baking and serving potica with your families during the Easter holidays. BERNADETTE K. FITZSIMMONS BRANCH 109 - Twin Cities (TC) of Minnesota Contact Information: Norm Setnicker 651.777.6106/normas188@msn.com Over the winter months speakers with excellent credentials have blessed our members with excellent presentations. Mirjam Gremes was born in the small mountain village of Polhov Gradec, Slovenia, and currently resides in Chisholm, MN. She and her family made the threehour trip to the TC on December 13 where she presented an archeological art history of Slovenia. Her presentation centered on a Baroque restoration of the local church in Polhov Gradec. During the summer of 2014, Mirjam personally helped a group of art professionals rescue and restore a myriad of religious artifacts. Through a series of Branch 108 members and friends at Embassy of Slovenia Unity Day Celebration: (left to right) Thomas Fitzsimmons, Marko Oven, Matthew Fitzsimmons, Amalia Oven, Mark Oven, Lynn Koiner, Bernadette Fitzsimmons, Ambassador Dr. Cerar, Nika Kovacic, Juliana Fitzsimmons, Christian Oven, and Teresa Oaxaca. March/April 2015 39 “before” and “after” slides, Mirjam illustrated a beautiful transformation of the church altar and religious artifacts. Hvala lepa, Mirjam, for such an interesting and unique presentation. It was also great that her family attended the meeting and was able to appreciate the presentation. Rick Pisa added a unique feature towards the end of the meeting - a 15-point quiz dealing with Slovenia. Mike Koskie, Yul Yost, and Norm Setnicker were the prizewinners. Cindy Gauthier and Rick Pisa each won a bottle of Slovenian wine from the Podrava area of Slovenia as part of our monthly lottery. At our January 17 meeting, Silvester Vicic, one of our newer members, gave a heart-wrenching presentation titled “How My Mom and Dad Met Freedom - A Story of Determination.” Ivan and Ivanka Vicic were born in the village of Zajelsje, in the Primorska district of Slovenia, at the time that Italy ruled that part of the former Yugoslavia. After living through WWII, and then the worst part of Titoism, Ivan and Ivanka, neither not yet 21, left Yugoslavia in January 1956 and headed towards the Italian border; they were caught and sentenced to prison for six months each. Once released, their courage overcame any fears they had and they again set out for the border. After some three days and nights of walking through woods and bushes, afraid they might be discovered, they emerged… successfully. Silvester then traced their ventures from Italy to Venezuela and then to Canada. As Silvester’s mother so poetically spoke, “Ljubezen nima meje (love has no borders).” This was a great memory piece that the membership will not forget. The TC Slovenians had two meetings in February. As tradition would dictate, Dr. Seth Hawkins hosted “Kultura Dan” at the Slovenian Exhibition in the Julian Sleeper House Museum in St. Paul on February 7. Dr. Hawkins organized the program around the concept of “Slovenian Money.” Five different members researched the following individuals that are pictured on Slovenian money: Ivan Cankar (Norm Setnicker), Jacobus Gallus (Cynthia Bradford), Joze Plecnik (Pat Dahl), Primoz Trubar (Terry and Monica Cornelison) and Ivana Kobilca (Elaine Bartelmey). Each person then showed a picture of the Slovenian person and gave a five-minute talk about the person. This proved to be a very interesting activity that involved more than one person. On February 21, Tea Rozman, director of Green Card Voices and member of the TC Slovenians, showed two videos of two Slovenian immigrants who settled in the Twin Cities - Yul Yost and Mimi Gorshe Manning. Green Card Voices records and collects immigrant stories from different cultures and so this was our first experience of seeing Yul’s and Mimi’s stories captured on video disc. These two discs will be part of the archives dealing with Slovenian oral history. We pray for an early “pomlad (spring)” and look forward to preparing our Festival of Nations Exhibit come May. NORM SETNICKER “Born in USA with Slovenian Parts” Music Stars Shine at Polka Hall of Fame Awards The Frank Stanger Orchestra repeated as Band of the Year at the 27th annual polka music awards ceremony presented by the National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame and Museum on Saturday, November 29, 2014. Accordionist Brian O’Boyle was voted Musician of the Year. The Awards Show theme, “Down at the Friendly Tavern,” paid tribute to the clubs, halls, and lounges that hosted polka dances. Large-scale murals of vintage tavern photos were displayed on the ballroom walls. The master of ceremonies was Ray Somich of WINT. The show was directed by Ray Somich II and produced by Joe Valencic. The Polka Hall of Fame and Museum is located at 605 East 222nd Street in Euclid, Ohio, in the historic former Euclid City Hall. Admission is free. Polka and Slovenian CDs are on sale online and in the museum store. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:00 to 4:00. For more information, call (216) 261-FAME, tollfree (866) 66-POLKA, or check Facebook or the website, www.polkafame.com. - Joe Valencic Musicians and leaders of Slovenian and nationality organizations founded the National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame in 1987. Museum exhibits trace the story of Cleveland’s home-grown dance music from its roots in the city’s Slovenian neighborhoods to nationwide popularity. Historic instruments include an accordion belonging to Frank Yankovic, America’s Polka King. The archive preserves 6,500 vintage recordings, some dating back a century. Each year, the organization’s 1,300 members vote for best album and top musicians by category. The Thanksgiving Polka Weekend was established in 1963 by radio host Tony Petkovsek. 40 Zarja - The Dawn U.S. Western Slovenes (family names: Muren, Judnick, and Kambic) met each other on the Živijo, Zarja! Tour in September and had their first reunion on November 15. Gina had the idea. Her husband, Fred, said “Ok, let’s do it.” The western, frontier city of Carson was chosen, because… well, that’s where Gina and Fred live. Commitments were made and assignments sent out… klobase, tripe soup, risotto, ocvrta kokos, strudel, potica, and wine. First, Judy (Gina’s sister), flew in from Denver. Next, a day after returning from his business trip to China, Marc drove his hot, little Mustang five hours up from the Bay Area. And, lastly, Bill and Fran navigated the northern Fran and Bill Granger, Gina Martin, Judy Matthews, and route over the Sierra’s. Marc Judnick in Carson City, Nevada - November 15, 2014. Preparing food in our Okusi Kamnika aprons, dining, reminiscing, viewing Marc’s videos, listening to the choir from Goče… it was laughter, love, and Živijo! These are some of the moments we shared. Živijo, Zarja! Tour by Megan Johnson It was a cold, most likely frigid, February day when I got the news. I was going to Slovenia. The next thing I knew my backpack was packed, electronics were charged, and off to the airport we, my mom and two of her best friends, went. It was finally time to leave. harder not to be excited about being in Slovenia. Being 22 and in college, I am used to being around people my age, so it took some getting used to, but I did that faster than I expected and I enjoyed myself the whole time. Travel is my passion. As soon as the offer was on the table to be part of this trip, I agreed to go. It started with excitement, “I finally get to go somewhere again!” Then there was worry, “How can I afford this?” This was, of course, followed by more excitement, “Only two more months!” Which was followed again by more worry, “I’m going to be the youngest one on this trip. What am I going to do with a bunch of older strangers?” Then it hit me, I was about to get on a plane to go to Slovenia, and the excitement returned in full force. Worries dissolved as the trip was a graduation present from my parents, and I knew the strangers wouldn’t be strangers for long. Soon enough, they would turn into friends. Everyone was young at heart and ready to have fun, no matter what we were doing. They all had an adventurous spirit and were ready for anything. There was no shortage of something to do or someone to do it with, that’s for sure. I tend to have more introvert than extrovert qualities. In groups, this can be difficult. This means I am generally a quiet person and can go unheard on occasion. Though, no matter what, spirits were always lifted, literally with the slivovitz, but also within myself when we would all gather at the end of the night. We bonded over the seemingly endless glasses of wine and shared our joy about our lives back home, as well as the memories we were creating in Slovenia. After arriving at O’Hare Airport and meeting a few people going on the same tour as we were, one of whom would later turn out to be who I spent the most time with, I was ready to be on that plane. If only I could speed up time. My mom and her friends chatted with the others about potica, their heritage, and themselves, while I sat quietly charging my phone, answering the occasional question. Sometimes being shy can have its downsides - this is one of them. It was a good omen for the trip, getting along with them right away, but some worry still lurked. “Will I get along with everyone?” (I did.) “Will anyone even talk to me, since I’m so much younger?” (Of course!) “What would we even talk about?” (What am I doing here!?) This group brought out the fun in me and I managed to gain new friends, and 30 or so new moms. They all wanted me to have the best time possible and seemed to be concerned about this because of my age. With their daily checks to see if I was enjoying myself and if I was glad I came, I could always answer with a “yes.” As soon as we landed and were on the bus, I was getting questions left and right. “Did you want to come on this trip?” (Of course!) “Why did you agree to this?” (Why wouldn’t I?!) The longer answers? I did want to be part of the trip because I love traveling and I thought it would be a good experience to travel with my mom. While the excitement of being in Slovenia was there, it was still weird getting used to being the youngest in the group, though it was Looking back at pictures, even just three months later, I get a little sad because I miss my new friends, but the excitement is still fresh in my mind. Little things back home still bring back memories, like talking about blood sausage in my French class or seeing on the counter every day the bottle of wine I got on the trip. I keep putting off drinking it to hold onto the trip just a little while longer. My shadow box is finally complete and will be up in my room, always reminding me of the good times that were had by all. I spent 10 days with some of the most caring and fun people I could have asked for, making this trip unforgettable. It was well worth it to be a part of this group. I couldn’t have asked for better people to spend this time with, as we were cooped up on a bus, wandering through foreign cities, and drinking all the wine. PERIODICALS NON-PROFIT PERIODICALS POSTAGE POSTAGE POSTAGE PAID PAID PAID IL LASALLE, LASALLE, IL LASALLE, IL Shadow Box of Živijo, Zarja! Tour By Megan Johnson