N ~ URADNO GLASILO SLOVENSKE ŽENSKE ZVEZE n OFFICIAL PUBLICATION ' SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION I NUMBER 4 APRIL, 1981 VOLUME 53 i Most Reverend Aloysius Ambrožič, D.D. Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto renowned religious leader of North America, who will be our spiritual counselor at the Christian Women’s Conference in July. His book of religious meditation was recently published in Europe. ZARJA - THE DA WN (ISSN 0044-1848) NO. 4 APRIL. 1981 VOL. 53 Mem bet, Illinois Fraternal Congress Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenfke Ženske /veze. Published monthly except one combined issue, July August — izhaja vsak mesec razen skupne številke za julij-avgust. Annual Subscription for non-members, $10.00 — naročnina S10.00 letno za ne-člane. For social Members. .65 per month za družabne članice .65 mesečno. Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S L N ION OE AMERICA /ARJA. 431 No. Chicago St. Joliet. III. 60432 Telephone /815) 727-1926 Second ( lass Postage paid at Chicago, III. AH communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the IIRST of the month. — I si dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednica do L i' mesecu. Editor. COR IN NI LESKOVAR I ditoriul Office: 2032 H Cermak Rd., Chicago, III. 60608 Telephone (312) 847-6679 HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN APRIL Nalional Officers: April 4 - IRENE JAGODNIK, Nat’l Auditor, Cleveland, OH April 8 - LUCILLE SMITH, Regional President, Strabane, PA April 21 - HERMINE DICKE, Scholarship Comm. Chairman, Madison, W1 Presidents: April 1 - FRANCES KOROŠEC, Br. 59, Burgettstown, PA April 2 - EMMA PLANINŠEK, Br. 20, Joliet, IL April 4 - ANNA ROSE SMOLICH, Br. 35, Aurora, MC April 10 - JEANETTE KII.LORAN, Br. 6, Barberton, OH April 13 - FRANCES SKUL, Br. 3, Pueblo, CO April 13 - JENNIE SAMSA, Br. 38, Chisholm, MN Secretaries: April 7 - STELLA DANCULL, Br. 21, Cleveland, OH April 8 - ANGELA KOZJAN, Br. 40, Lorain, OH MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY! DATES TO REMEMBER... April 4—5 MIDWEST HANDICAP BOWLING TOURNEY, Br. I, Sheboygan, WI hostesses April 4 6th S.W.U. COTILLION BALL, Slovenian National Home, Cleveland, OH, Combined Cleveland Branches April 26 CARD PARTY, Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI MEETING at Senior Citizen Center, Br. 35, Aurora, MN 45TH ANNIVERSARY, Br. 73, Warrensville Hgts., OH CORPORATE COMMUNION, Br. 100, Fontana, CA May 3 MOTHER OF THE YEAR PARTY, Br. 81, Keewatin, MN May 6 MOTHERS’ DAY DINNER, Br. 95, So. Chicago, IL May 7 RUMMAGE SALE, Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH May8 CARD PARTY, Br. 50, Cleveland OH May 11 MOTHER’S DAY PARTY, Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI June 6 COMMEMORATIVE MASS, Br. 21, West Park, OH June 25 JUNIORS’ PICNIC, Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI June 28 OUTDOOR MASS, Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Br. 50, Cleveland, OH July 18—19 CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONFERENCE, Lemont, IL September 13 MINNESOTA STATE CONVENTION, Br. 23, Ely, MN Sept. 20 501 H ANNIVERSARY, Br. 47, Garfield Hgts, OH Sept. 27 WISCONSIN STATE CONVENTION, Sheboygan, WI October 10 CALIFORNlA-WASHINGTON-OREGON STATE CONVENTION, Br. 100, Fontana, CA Oct. M 501 H ANNIVERSARY, Br. 50, Cleveland, OH *■■■■■§ ~| tea Es Es! 1 V-E-S-E-L-A A-L-L-E-L-U-J-A NOTES TO HELP OFFICERS... Undertaking the organization of meetings, state conventions, and other fraternal events, needs the energetic work of dedicated officers. In the experience of the S.W.U., we find that most successful events take place when the officers make careful plans with a committee-type group. The “committee’’ is usually made up of the officers and members who have ideas and suggestions to make the event all the more enjoyable and running smoothly. So, if you want to have success and to make your members happy, use the "committee” method when hvvlng a branch event. You’ll find it pays off in unity and good will. Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, O.F.M. . Easter is our Hope When a child is born, the parents, relatives and friends look at this innocent creature and start to predict all kinds of good things: he has long fingers, he will be a good piano player; she has a strong voice, she will be a good singer there is hope of good things. The child starts to walk and talk, grows up, finishes school and gets married. At the wedding there are all kinds of expressions of good luck and hope for good things to come the way of the newly married couple. The couple raise their children and then retire: “Now we will have good times, we will be able to do what we couldn’t do before,” they are saying, looking into the future with great hope. Then, inevitably, they come to an end: old age and death. Suddenly man of today becomes silent, for him there is an end, no more hope. Here God comes to our help with Easter Sunday. Easter morning ended the dark night of sin, brought us new life, brought us new hope that should change our gloomy outlook on life to a joyous expectation. Easter is the day that brought us the message of eternal life. It is very hard to describe what it means to live forever, to be with God, to share His divine life and never be separated from the Supreme Good. The radiance of Easter Morning dispells the gloom of our daily life and brings hope to those who mourn by the open grave of a loved one. The greatest test of our belief in Christ is right at a funeral: do I consider the grave an utter destruction of a human being or just a resting place till the last day? The message of Easter must permeate every fabric of our being because this is the future of our life. We were born not to be destroyed but one day to gloriously rise and be with our Risen Lord forever. Indeed unfortunate is the man who does not believe in Easter and blessed is the one whose foundation in life is the message of Easter: Christ is risen so shall I rise again. As the Alleluia resounds through the land bedecked with spring flowers, let us be mindful, that even a more glorious day is awaiting us — the day of our own resurrection. NATIONAL PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE I wish you all a Happy Easter and hope the spring will bring renewed vigor for us in the coming season. Uppermost in our minds now is our “CHRISTIAN WOMENS’ CONFERENCE” in Lemont on July 18-19. This is an ideal place for spiritual comfort and uplift. The grotto of our Lady is inspirational and tends to encourage all who seek her aid. These are the answers to todays ills and troubles, whether they be internal or worldly. We all need a special time for soul-searching. Hopefully, many will partake of this opportunity. I am sure that those who attend will find an inner peace and contentment. We are looking forward to Bishop Am-brozic’s homily and perhaps, time will permit him to include some discussion during the conference. I have asked our State Presidents to act as coordinators in their respective areas, to help with travel information, etc. Invite your friends to come along too. What an ideal way to enjoy a vacation. Branches in Minnesota have already expressed an interest in this matter. Let us hear from more of you. I am looking forward to attending the Cotillion Ball in Cleveland and the Maple Heights Button Box Jam Session. Hope to see our local Ohioans there. To the April celebrants, our best wishes with much health and happiness in the future. We have many ailing members and wish them a quick return to health. Our prayers for our deceased are constant. May God Walk With You. Mary Muller DA WN CHORAL NOTES Dear Readers, Just so you won’t think our “Dawn” Choral Concert was a flop, I’m going to clue you in! We performed to a full house even though the absence of more men was conspicuous. Most of them sat glued to the “Tube” watching the Football game. Believe it — some were husbands of our singers — but did show up later to keep peace in the family! It was truly gratifying to have such a grand and appreciative audience. When our Director, Dorothy Vogolin said she was proud of us — we were elated that we did not let her down. She is the most remarkably patient and understanding person: Sincere thanks from all of us, Dorothy! Our featured duet was a brother and sister combination. Mary Gerl, a second alto, and organist for 45 years at St. Christine’s church in Euclid, Ohio sang with brother Paul vanchar who is a vocalist with the Jeff Pecon Orchestra. Their voices blended so well together they received a thunderous sound of applause! As I write, we’re already to enter the month of March and still hearing complimentary remarks about oui “special duet. Even though Jeff Pecon’s orchestra played during and after the concert good ol’ Paul stepped out ot ranks to accompany his sister Mary and add to the success of our Concert. Thanks a million, Paul, from our Director Dorothy and the entire “Dawn” Choral Group. Due to an unfortunate accident suffered by President Pauline Krall we have postponed our rehearsals as of now. She was hospitalized for some time but is now recuperating at home in the care of a therapist. Without our Chief — us little Indians can’t get started, so we are all hoping and praying for her speedy and complete recovery. FRAN NEMANICH Reporter for “Dawn’ LU ACTIVITIES OF OUR BRANCHES NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI The writer is vacationing in Florida as I submit this for printing. During my stay here, I met Josephine Vogrin, a member of our Branch, who resides at Smyrna Beach and we had a nice visit. In the next issue, I hope to outline the activities for our branch in the coming months. A reminder: The Midwest Bowling Tournament is April 4 and 5 at the Maple Lanes in Sheboygan. The chairman is our president, Anne Modiz. A good numbei of bowlers is expected to visit our fair city then. All interested are most cordially invited to attend, either as bowlers or as spectators. Blessed Easter to all members and National Officers. MARGARET FISCHER, Reporter NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Spring is here and in full swing again and time for planning the upcoming events for Br. 2. We need a good attendance of membership and a lot of volunteers for the events if we expect them to be a success. We had a nice group of members at the last meeting with a demonstration of glass ware which followed. “Mother of the Year” was selected by the members at our February meeting. I am happy to say it’s Yours Truly, Ann Scieszka. 1 really fee! honored to be the chosen one. We have some happy events to report. Julia Ann Wadycki, born on Jan 12th to Pamela, our member, was enrolled by her grandmother, Evelyn Tome. Mary Ann Partyka gave birth to a son on Feb. 6th, her first child. Mary Ann is also our member for many years. Frances Schultz is the baby’s grandmother. Our members, Frances Zibert and Josephine Squok are his great grandmothers. Fr. Jack Zibert, the baby’s cousin, will officiate at the baptism. Our member, Irene Carter is twice great grandmother! A baby boy and a baby girl were born to two of her granddaughters. Congratulations to all the happy families! On our sick list we have Ann Bunetta, now at St. Anne’s Hospital and Ann Terdin who is recuperating from surgery. We remember them in our prayers. The Slovenian American Radio Club Folk Dancers sponsored a KOLINE dinner at St. Stephen’s in February. The food and entertainment was enjoyed by all attending. The Slovenian Radio Program was broadcast that day from the hall with Lud and Corinne Leskovar announcing. This was a “first” for our hall and very enjoyable to the guests listening. The orchestra and singers of Janez Arko’s “Glas Slovenije” ensembel entertained before and during the broadcast. One of the singers is Pat Zubek, daughter of our Secretary, Jean. We compliment these fine young men and women. The junior folk dancers also performed under the direction of Magda Simrayh, our Branch 2 President. Among the little dancers were the three Nusko children. The Bowling Tournament will be held on April 4th and 5th. Call Lil Putzell 484-5573 for your reservations and get more information from Lil. With the Easter season here, let us remember our sick and shut in members. Send them a message of cheer and remember them in your prayers. May the Lord be with you all and have a Blessed Easter. ANN SCIESZKA NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI It was good seeing so many members attending our meeting after that heavy snowstorm the week before. Hope it’s a good sign for future attendance as well. Frances Plesko led us in Slovenian prayer to open the meeting and all our officers were present glad to know the “flu bug” finally left us! Reports were all read and accepted, some dues were collected earlier making my job so much easier. Thank you for your cooperation. Our coming card party, April 26, was further discussed with the final prize decision to be made in March. Several prizes were promised and a few were already brought in, as we well as cash prizes to cover our expenses. Bus trips for the future were brought up, but nothing definitely decided, as we may need one for the state convention in September to Sheboygan. So that, too, is up for future plans. Our picnic date was definitely announced as June 25, the last Thursday in June at Jackson Park. It’s free to junior members, and grown ups are welcome but will be requested to pay for the lunch. Beer is allowed but if you want it you will have to bring your own. Games and refreshments are still under discussion. Most likely we will need volunteers for ideas and help. Let’s all pray for a good day as we all enjoy this event! Frances Selich was reported in St. Michael’s Hospital, but her son, Louis, tells me she’s doing fine! Remember to visit any of our sick members or those in nursing homes if you can as they’re always glad to see you. The meeting closed with prayer in English. Stonia took charge of the door prizes and attendance prize before lunch was enjoyed. Lunch was provided by “our Birthday” girls, Christine Bojance, Olga Fredericks, Gertrude Schunk and Mary White. It was a good lunch and Mary Kiel baked cookies. Olga, as usual baked the delicious strudel. Happy Birthday was sung before we started our favorite games. The day being so nice that most of us stayed later than usual. We wish to welcome a new junior member Chad Robert Dragan, grandson of Frances Dragan, and a new social member Alma Hoelzer. Hope you enjoy our group! MARY DEZMAN NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA We were honored by a visit from our Regional President, Mary Jasina of Fontana. A special meeting was called when she came to San Francisco. The members presented Mary with a little token of our affection, a heart pendant which she graciously accepted. A social hour was enjoyed during which time Mary was able to meet with all the members. We were so pleased with the visit. Katie Radovich is once again home and on the mend. This dear charter member has had a really rough time An idea to “ catch on! ’ ’ With the winter months over, and spring and summer at our doorstep, we have to put aside the winter activities, and now in full swing of organizing affairs that can happen in fair weather. This year a Conference of Christian Women will be held in Lemont, Illinois on July 18—19. In these trying times, what is better than to get together and pray? Any body interested in attending from far and near can get complete details in Zarja or from the officers. Large or small groups are welcome. In reading the articles in Zarja the past couple of months, it appears that the younger generation has taken an interest with their “thank you” articles in appreciation for what the ladies have done for them. This is wonderful and perhaps, if one juvenile out of every branch can become interested in writing of their ideas and experiences, they will become involved and we would know first-hand what we can do for and with our young. Many of us were involved since we were children and gradually became a part of the organization. Our mothers talked about “Ženska Zveza” and we knew all about it. All the juveniles have an open invitation to write. Ann Hodnik, would be especially pleased to hear all their comments, as would all the women of the branches. Sometimes a simple idea catches on and becomes very popular. Happy Easter to everyone. Albina Uehlein Women’s Activities AIMING FOR ANOTHER? 1980 BOWLING TOURNEY WINNERS Ermenc Funeral Home Bowling Team took first place at the Midwest Bowling Tournament held in Joliet, II. last year. They are from West Allis, Wisconsin. The photo shows them with their trophies as top bowlers among the S.W.U. teams! From left, Vickie Kastelic, Gloria Kloth, Marion Marolt, Captain, Ann Krizan and Mary Ann Costello. This month, the Midwest classic takes place at Sheboygan, Wisconsin with teams from Illinois and Wisconsin taking part. The dates are April 4th and 5th. Best wishes to all our fine sportswomen! this past year and we hope and pray that good health will stay with her. Tillie Kambic is up and walking around after a seige with her leg. Nice seeing you looking so well, Til. Our Pot Luck Luncheon was a huge success. All the ladies were so generous and outdid themselves. Our salad bar was sheer delight as was the chicken, ham and roast beef - all excellent. As if this wasn’t enough, we had delicious pastries of all kinds plus apple strudels. Thanks, Ivanka, yum, yum! See, you have to attend our functions to have all this good food or should I say, excellent food and good company! Financial Secretary, Moreen Spencer brought her adorable twin sons, now 4, and such a delight. They added richly to our atmosphere. Today children are always darling but Kenneth and Kevin are in a class by themselves, friendly, good natured and so loveable. Our day was a complete success. Thanks to all and we hope to plan another day just like this one in the near future. Oh, yes, our kitchen helpers, Ginny Sustarich and Ann Fabian did all the dishes and cleaned up. Hvala, girls! Reno Trip is set for June. Jo Aiuto will handle the details as usual. So, we know we will all have a wonderful time and our usual excellent accomodations will be made. Call Jo early as the bus fiils Tast, 863-8632. Mother’s Day will soon be our day to celebrate with Mrs. Radosevich. Plans are being made to make this a happy day for Margaret. We were so pleased to have Margaret and her daughter attended our Pot Luck. Keep well and happy. FRAN CHIODO, Reporter NO. 16, SO. CHICAGO, ILL Our attendance in February was very good considering it was a bitterly cold wintry night. We welcomed four guests who joined us to acquaint us with plans for the SWU Christian Women’s Conference. They were our Spiritual Advisor, Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, National President, Mary Muller, National Vice-President, Anne Kompare and Zarja Editor, Corinne Leskovar. President Marge Prebil opened the meeting with a prayer and immediately led a Memorial prayer for Mary Primožič who died on January 31st. Mary was 81 years old and a member of our branch for 41 years. She regularly attended our meetings and all our doings and will be missed by all. Many of the members turned out to pray at the Kompare Funeral Home and attended the funeral mass at St. George’s Church. Gladys Buck, Stephanie Golub, Pauline Klobučar, Mary Maricich, Phyllis Perko and Marge Prebil were honorary pallbearers. Entombment was in Holy Family Mausoleum at St. Mary cemetery. Our heartfelt condolences are extended to all her family members. Our branch will again sponsor a bowling team for the tournament in Sheboygan on April 4th. Bowlers will be Andrea Krai, Dolores Franko, Mary Rago, Chris Tomasik and Mary Christine Whalen. Good luck, .girls! Candidates for Woman of the Year were nominated and the members voted to bestow this honor on Zora Yurkus. Congratulations! A letter was read from Frances Haffner, our member in California. Birthday greetings were sent to her. Get well wishes go to Ann Springer, Millie Skul, Julie Vrlich, Ann Marie Kaminski and Dorothy Plebanski. Sunshine prizes went to Mary Sasek, Mary Brebrick and Romaine O’Brien. Our business meeting over, we addressed our attention to our four guests who generated a lot of enthusiasm among the members in their talks on the plans for the conference. It is up to us to keep this enthusiasm alive and. make definite plans to support and attend this conference in Lemont the weekend of July 18-19. Please try to keep this date open when making your plans for the summer. After the meeting our guests joined us in serenading our birthday celebrants, Pauline Klobučar, Mary Krznaric, Mary Rago and Elsie Starcevich. The smell of hot coffee and warm apple strudel baked by Marge Prebil and Pauline Klobučar helped us forget the cold night outside. Valentine favors and the other treats brought by the birthday girls gave the evening a festive mood. Congratulations to fourth grader, Sean Monahan who was a first place winner in the science fair at St. Francis de Sales school. Another first — new juvenile member John Behrman was the first member to join the SWU in 1981. Welcome! MARGE SPRETNJAK,Reporter NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, WI Our annual meeting on Sunday, December 21, had a nice turn out and it was a pleasure to see so many members. Important business topics were discussed and approved for the coming year. The officers were reelected and Mrs. Apolonia Limoni was chosen as the Mother of the Year. She is truly deserving of this honor, always ready to help at any time. Congratulations! Our meetings will be held every 3rd Sunday of the month with the exceptions of June, July and August, at 2:00 P.M. at St. Mary’s Baraga Hall. Please use the rear door and proceed to the lower level. A yearly donation of $1.00 towards the treasury and SO. 10 for each death of a member will be assessed. A $3.00 gift will be given to an adult member if hospitalized for 1 week, and $1.00 for a juvenile. $10.00 will be given for masses, flowers, scholarship or charity for a deceased member. It was also decided that we will dispense with a card party as our selling of the booster sheets went over the top. Officers and members offered miscellaneous prizes such as an afghan, traveling bag, scale, blanket, liquor plus many more lovely prizes. The booster sheets will be selling at a dollar each and the proceeds will go into the treasury to help defray some of the expenses for the coming year. These will be mailed to you in the coming weeks. Sincere congratulations are extended to Mr. & Mrs. Jim (Antoinette) Bruno on their golden wedding anniversary and to Mr. & Mrs. Lud (Corinne) Leskovar on their silver wedding anniversary. Could not miss a chance like this to master of ceremonies, reaccounted the praiseworthy history of Mrs. Schlosar’s civic mindedness, and contribution to ine Slovenian community. The celebration concluded with a lively performance by the Triglav dancers in their beautiful Slovenian costumes. A symbolic bouquet of red carnations was presented to Mrs. Schlosar to preserve the Slovenian spirit of the day. We, the officers and members of Br. 17, are especially proud of Mrs. Schlosar for her 40 decades of work as our charter president. As a contemporary of Mrs. Marie Prisland, she dedicated many of her thoughts and dreams to the betterment of Slovenian womanhood. She has a lovely family including her daughter, Jackie, two granddaughters, 5 great granddaughters and a great great grandchild. At this time I would like to extend my thanks to the S. W. U. headquarters for the beautiful wallet for being a 50 year member and to branch No. 17 for their beautiful bouquet of red roses. Being remembered in such lovely way means so much more than these few lines can say. Thank you for the happiness it brought. God bless you all with good health and happiness. As your secretary, may I extend my heartfelt thanks to the officers and members for all the co-operation and help you have given me thru the years, which made the road a little easier, and which makes our branch a successful one. Thank you — one and all. MARIE A. FLORYAN heartily express warm thoughts ot’ you and wishes too, for special happiness. At the February meeting a motion was made and carried that we will dispense with the April meeting, as it is Easter Sunday. To the shut-ins and sick members, we extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery. Please try to visit them or send a card, also remember them in your prayers. Sincere condolences are extended to family of the late Cecelia Verbick, wife of Anton and mother of Judy Price, sister of Mary Marn, Angelyn (Chester) Johnson; also to Ann& Mary Podlesnik, on the loss of their mother, Ann Podlesnik. May the good Lord grant them heavenly peace and we will always keep them in our hearts. We welcome two new members, Carol Brandt and Shirley Wills who joined our branch and the bowling group. We hope you will also join in all activities. Welcome aboard! A thought to remember: Easter is a miracle of love, the redeeming love of a Risen Lord! Hope your heart rejoices again in the beautiful miracle of Easter and may your heart feel the glory of Easter! Happy Birthday! Josephine Schlosar On Sunday February 1st, our organizer and honorary President, Mrs. Josephine Schlosar was given a surprise 90th birthday party by her daughter, Mrs. Josephine Nimmer at St. Mary’s Help of Christians Hall. There were 175 relatives and friends present to help celebrate this festive occasion. Rev. Frederick Smith, pastor of St. Mary’s said grace before we were served a delicious meal. During the dinner, we were entertained by Mr. Frank Sezon and his group with many Slovenian and “old favorite” melodies. After dinner, M/. Anton R. Verbick, A LASTING TRIBUTE USPEH — SUCCESS STORY! As we look back on our Slovenian pioneers and reflect on their immigrant histories, we find a people that because of political and economic reasons, left a homeland of beautiful mountains, valleys, lakes, and quaint villages for a new country of expanding cities, diverse peoples and endless opportunities. They left the small villages sustained by farms and small shops for the big cities with mills, factories, and mines. Our Slovenian immigrants, by and large, were not professional people, they did not operate big businesses, nor did they any longer till the soil on farms. America was caught up in the “Industrial Era”, and our people were an important part of that history. The Slovenian Women’s Union of America wants to help establish a Lasting Tribute to all our hard working, industrious and conscientious laborers. Since mining was so important when our Slovenian people began to arrive in the United States at the turn of the century and mining preceeded the jobs of the mills and factories, we would like to erect a memorial to our Slovenian miners and laborers. Many of our Slovenian people settled in the Iron Range of Minnesota and the men worked in the mines. That is where the Memorial would be erected. What will we need? Three important things. 1. Money for the Memorial. 2. A place to erect the Memorial. 3. Enthusiasm for the project. It is our goal to have the Project completed by the next S.W.U. convention in May 1982 at Chisholm, Minnesota. We need to publicly identify our Slovenian people as an important part of the history of our beloved country. Let’s unite and work together to honor our pioneers, parents, grandparents, relatives, neighbors and friends. Do you have any ideas or further thoughts? If so I would appreciate hearing from you. Please feel free to write or call me. Thanks! We will be looking forward to your support and cooperation. Sincerely, Fr. David Stalzer Chairman of the Slovenian Miners Project St. Dennis Church 1214 Hamilton St. Lockport, 111. 60441 1-815-838-0704 It’s a great word USPEH — and Milwaukeeans are proudly using the word to describe their latest activities in the preservation of Slovenian culture and language. The USPEH organization was formed in order to answer the call for Slovenian unity in the financing of a Slovenian exhibit at the Milwaukee Public Museum. All societies of the area banded together and came up with the necessary $3,000 that was needed to build a typical Slovenian house that now stands among others in a European Village setting at the Museum. This project was only the first of many. Since the dedication of USPEH Slovenian Village display a year ago, the members of USPEH, which stands for United Slovenians to Preserve Ethnic Heritage, have begun a chorus for the performing of Slovenian songs and established an evening class for the learning of the Slovenian language. The chorus meets at the University of Wisconsin (Milwaukee) every week under the direction of Dr. Leo Muskatevec, a professor at UWM. 25 to 30 men and women form the chorus which will have its next performance May 15th. They will also slug at the USPEH anniversary dinner dance at the Red Carpet EXPC Center on Nov. 14th. Singers are very welcome to join the chorus and may do so by calling Mary Bregant at 543-6695 after 3 p.m. any day. The charge for supplies is $35 per semester per singer. The current Slovenian language class began Jan. 20th and will run for 20 weeks, meeting twice a week under the tutelage of Nancy Reese. The students say she is doing a great job teaching them conversational Slovenian. More students are encouraged to join them. After this term, they will recess for the summer and meet again in September. Cost for the class is $15 plus $6 for the workbook. For further information call Fran Widemshek at 384-5765. The first Slovenian Music Library in the Midwest is another of USPEH’s achievements. It is under the supervision of Prof. Muskatevec and is a collection of all types of Slovenian folk music. Many of our members are members of USPEH and participate in its activities. We salute them and wish them success as they carry on in this very important work! EDITOR NO. 20, JOLIET, ILL We are sorry for any inconvenience and misunderstanding due to an omission of a word in the February issue. The corrected paragraph is: Members who pay their 1981 dues by March 1st will be eligible to win one year free dues. Eight juniors danced to a capacity crowd in four performances at the Annual Joliet Kiwanis Show. Dancing their way to a successful star studded career are: Beth Busse; Mimi Gornik; Anita, Annette and Angela Kraus; Annette Mihelich and Heidi Schoener. A plaque was presented to the students of St. Joseph’s Slovenian Language/School for their outstanding exhibition of Slovenian dancing at the Multi-Cultura Awareness Fair held at Washington Junior High on February 22nd. Congratulations to their teach Lillian Cepon for her continued perseverance. Our sympathies are extended to: Mary Dusa on the death of her mother Mary Stariha, Rockdale; Mary Ann Ragen on the death of her brother, Marty Decman; Georgene Reardon on the death of her mother-in-law; Nancy Busse and Beth on the death of their father and grandfather, John Lukanich; Helen Plut on the death of her brother, Frank Zadel; Theresa Juricic on the death of her brother-in-law, Joseph John Juricic; Frances Higgins and Jennifer on the death of their brother and uncle, Joseph Jursinovic. Get well wishes to: Frances Kalcic, Mary Heintzand Mary Rozman. “Hope 1981 will be real kind to all of you.” This greeting was received along with her 1981 dues from our member Anne Brolich ot Ontario, California. Good to hear from you, Anne. Our next meeting will be held on Easter Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. “One Day at a Time” will be the topic of our guest speaker Carita Ancel Girman. This young woman will discuss how cancer and the treatments are changing her everyday life style. The special evening meeting held Monday, March 2 with the S.W.U. GOOD AT STRIKING OUT! NO. 20, JOLIET, IL BOWLING NEWS Team standings are as follows: Slovenian Home 40, Dames Funeral Home 40, Crow’s Nest 37, Merichka’s Restaurant 35, Northwest Club 35, Tezak’s Funeral Home 30. Individual standings - High Single Game: S. Kopta 250, M. Wajchert 228, J. Derlinga 225, A. Mulvey 223 and L. Rothlisberger 223. High series, Three games: Rothlisberger 603, Derlinga 567, Mulvey 537, Wajchert 542, Bernikas 543. Individual averages: Derlinga 161, Wajchert 160, Rothlisberger 160 and Bernickas 159. Plans are now being made for our Bowling Banquet sometime in April. This is it for now. Till next time, May God be willing, MARY RUDMAN, Reporter •••••••••• and all the work in house-cleaning and preparing of the food. We were so very careful that we didn’t drop a crumb of the blessed food as it was sacrilegious. All waste had to be burned and not stepped on. On Good Friday we would all go to church for special service - the children kissed a large crucifix that laid at a side altar and leave money gifts alongside. We were always so happy when Lent, or the mourning period, was over with and the bells would ring again on Easter Sunday. Easter is still celebrated in a very spiritual way but all the frills and fuss are subdued due to the changing times and inflation, but we will always remember the impressive older customs. Happy Easter to all members and their families! MARGE PLANTON, Reporter Serri, Treasurer, Mary Gornik and Emma Shimkus, Auditors and Rev. Richard Fitzsimmons, Spiritual Advisor. Our Mother of the Year will be Mary Gornik. We had some discussion regarding the lack of a quorum at the at the January and February meetings and the problem it presents in conducting branch business when there are not enough present or if a meeting has to be cancelled. We agreed that it would be wise to hold our election of officers in November with installation of new officers in December. Tentative plans call for abolishing the January and February meetings. More on this later as we have an opportunity to study this proposal and make a calendar for the year. We’are happy to report that both Fannie Piletič and Mary Piletič have been up and around and have been seen at Mass. I’m sure they will soon be as good as new and back with us as before. We pray for our sick members that they might be restored to good health and God is good and answers our prayers. We sadly report the death of our member, Mary Klopcic, who resided in Chicago. Our sincere sympathy to members Frances Baznik, her sister, and Fannie Kobilsek, her sister-in-law. A thank you to our members who served as Honorary Pallbearers at Mary’s funeral on such a bitter cold, snowy morning. Our sympathy also to Mary Ajster and her family on the untimely death of her grandson, Rick Ajster. May God grant them eternal rest! Our next regular meeting date falls on Holy Thursday, so our meeting will be held on the Fourth Thursday of April (23rd) at 7:30 p.m. in the La Salle Catholic School Library. Plan ,to attend and help us plan our May Dinner honoring our fine Mother of the Year. ANNEM. WANGLER Reporter MINN. & CAL. TO BE National Officers covered 2 major projects. 1. The involvement of Branch 20 in coordinating the 1st phase of the Heritage Museum Target date set for July 18, 1981 for phase I. 2. Christian Women’s Conference scheduled for July 18-19 in Lemont, IL. Here at St. Joseph’s Church: The traditional Slovene custom of blessing the fire, water and food, singing of Slovenian Easter Songs, Resurrection Services, and school children in procession will take place on Easter Saturday, April 18th, a truly climatic end to 40 days of Lent. A blessed and happy Easter to all. JOSEPHINE ERJAVEC NO. 22, BRADLEY.IL Those who came to our meeting had a delightful time at the home of Ann Richards on February 15th. There were four missing and missed but we were compensated by our two lovely guests, Barbara Clutter, and her daughter Marsha — Ann Richard’s offspring. Our last meeting was on December 6th and we meet every other month; therefore, we had delayed messages to relay: Rose Barothy, our Indiana member, sent her best wishes and dues. We want to thank her for her generous gift to our treasury and wish her well also. Also greetings from our National President, Mary Muller, were received and we also wish her well. United Parents sent a ‘‘thank you” letter for our donation to their worthy cause. Received an interesting card from Sun City, Arizona where our member, Mayme Drassler, escapes for the winter. Mayme and friends attended a performance by the Slovenian Symphony direct from Ljubljana which was a great treat for one who promotes the Slovenian heritage as fervantly as she does. Also her nephew, Steve Drassler, who has visited Slovenia several times is furthering his interest in our heritage with a Slovenian language course at Kansas City where he resides. We should all be this proud and interested in our roots because we are the shoots that can carry on. Our next meeting will be on April 21st in the evening at Billie Lustig’s home and Toni Legris will assist. We have spring-like weather — 65 degrees yesterday — so I will start looking for our first robin, a sure sign Easter is almost here! I remember Easters of by gone days, the beautiful bonnets, the blessing of the food baskets (Žegan), NO. 24, LASALLE, IL Our February meeting was attended by a small group of members but there were enough on hand to conduct our annual election officers. The same group of ladies will continue in office with the addition of Minnie Carter as our new Vice President. The officers are as follows: Anne Marie Wangler, President, Minnie Carter, Vice President, Emma Shimkus, Recording Secretary, Wanita Helmer, Financial Secretary, Ann REPRESENTED AT LEMONT CONFERENCE A group of our members Jrom Ihe Iron Range of Minnesota will attend the Conference led by Regional President, Tory Bobence. They will vacation in the area for a few days following. Mary Jasina, Reg. President of California is also planning on coming to Lemont and we hope to hear soon from others in our widespread family of sisters of S. W. U. L ___________________________ HERITAGE VIEWS AND NEWS ...Irene Odorizzi FIRST STEPS TAKEN FOR OUR MUSEUM The National Officers of the SWU formally initiated steps to create the Slovenian Heritage Museum in the home office, during the Board Meeting held on March 1-3 in Joliet, 111. Recommendations were presented by the Heritage Director and accepted by the board. A preliminary committee was established and a chairman selected to begin the registration and display of artifacts already on hand and those which will be donated in the next few months. Mrs. Mildred Pucel, vice president of Branch No. 20, was requested to take this position. She will be assisted by No. 20 members who agreed to help with the commencement of this museum: Rev. David Stalzer, Mrs. Agnes Lovati, Mrs. Mary Ivanich, Mrs. Marie Malnarich. Each branch of the organization is requested to appoint or ask for a volunteer who will be a member of the Heritage Committee. This representative would assist in soliciting artifacts and would send them to the Museum with information about the donor, origin of the artifact, age and other interesting data. It is anticipated that members from all over the U.S. will send items that may be displayed in the exhibit room. Hopefully, a small portion of the museum will be completed by July for the Christian Women’s Conference. SPECIFIC ITEMS NEEDED FOR THE MUSEUM Wanted for the ETHNIC COSTUME EXHIBIT: A pair of high button shoes, for a female, is needed to complete the ethnic costume submitted by Frances Sietz. The outfit which is over 100 years old and which was worn by her mother at the age of 16, was brought from her birthplace of Semič in the Belo Krajina area. Frances recently donated this lovely white linen costume to the museum and it will be displayed on a newly-purchased mannequin. Other accessories worn in conjunction with the outfit, as a belt and beads, would also be welcome. Needed for the JOURNEY TO AMERICA EXHIBIT: A black skirt or dress that would have been worn anywhere between the years 1900-1915 and could be worn with a black tailored coat which has already been secured, is requested. A hat of the period would also be appreciated, along with a trunk or luggage used by an immigrant in traveling to the U.S. Passports are also welcome. HERITAGE PROJECT FOR THE MONTH Looking for an interesting and educational project for your monthly meeting? Here’s one: “Show and Tell” Inform your members that their next monthly meeting will be a show and tell meeting. Ask them to each bring in some item associated with an immigrant or Slovenian culture for the next meeting. Devote a portion of the meeting to your membership having them each display the item and tell the history behind its use or its origin. Maybe a member or two wouldn’t mind donating an °bject to the Heritage Museum. Ask your Heritage representative to send the object to the Museum, listing the name of the donor, the age of the object and any °ther interesting information that would help to understand or appreciate the artifact. Good Luck and more ideas for your meeting next month! Send in your ideas, We’d love to hear from you! 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARRIVAL IN AMERICA APRIL 16, 1921-1981 and Birthday Greetings, April 2 EMMA MATKO PLANINŠEK SWU NO. 20 Read about "Emma from Trbovlje” and other Slovenian immigrants in the book, FOOTSTEPS THROUGH TIME To order: Send $6.75 (Postage & Handling) Irene M. Odorizzi 2362 Paddock Lane Reston, Va. 22091 or the SWU Home Office Hermine gets warm welcome in Cleveland from past national President, Mary Bostian (left) and Br. 50 President, Ann Tercek (right). Hermine Prisland Dicke 3717 Council Crest Madison, Wisconsin 53711 (i044 i (\m and * * * * My special greetings to the ladies of Cleveland, Ohio area where, on February 8th, it was my pleasure to serve as food judge for the Bake-Off contest sponsored by the United Slovenian Society of Cleveland with Jean Križman and Jennie Gorjanc as chairmen. Other judges included ethnic columnists from the Cleveland Press and Cleveland Plain Dealer and Home economists from Stouffer Foods Corporation and Durkee Famous Foods. Over 700 people attended that event highlighted by a most enjoyable band concert performed by the society’s Concert Band and the Alpine Sextet. Good food, good music and good fellowship prevailed throughout the day which began at noon at The Slovenian National Home. A 5-minute recording for radio broadcast with Alice Kuhar completed the memorable day. Four categories were featured: krofe, nut potica, apple strudel and flancati. Winners were Mary Vadnal, Potica in Bundt pan; Pauline Fragnowski, Flancati; Ann Sarley, Krofe, and Rosemary Semenchak, Apple Strudel. Other winners included Mary Dolsak, raisin potica; Mildred Pike, oven-baked flancati, Rose Bradich, cheese and strawberry strudels and Betty Rotar, poppy seed strudel. Jean Križman and Ann Tercek introduced me to many members whose warmth made it a special day for me. Some were especially happy to see me because of my mother whom they dearly loved and admired for her accomplishments, including the founding of the Slovenian Women’s Union. On Monday Jean and I visited The Slovene Home for the Aged where I met more members including Dorothy Strnisha (see picture) who celebrated her 92nd birthday two days before our coming. At the Polka Village we met Tony Petkovšek and Maia Kollander from the Kollander Traveling Agency before driving to Sterle’s Slovenian Country House where Ann Tercek arranged for 39 women representing nine branches to meet for lunch. During the informal and very friendly meeting which followed we talked about recipes, scholarship, the new cookbook, meetings and the Cotillion Ball to be held in Cleveland April 4th. Some of the Bake-Off winners have sent me their recipes. In the nut-potica category Mary Vadnal from Branch No. 50 won first prize for Potica in Bundt Pan. POTICA IN BUNDT PAN 1 cup butter or oleo 112 cup milk 2 packages dry yeast 1 /4 cup warm water 3 egg yolks 3 cups sifted flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup sugar Heat butter and milk until butter is melted. Set aside and cool. Dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Beat yolks with fork into above yeast. Blend into the yeast mixture the cooled milk and oleo.Sift the flour and mix in the salt and sugar. Add liquid mixture to flour and beat until smooth and creamy (wooden spoon, not mixer). Cover bowl and refrigerate overnight. Filling; 2 cups ground nuts 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 tablespoons sugar 3/4 cup milk 1 cup sugar 3 egg whites, room temperature In saucepan blend together the nuts, cinnamon, sugar and milk. Cook over medium heat. Stir until mixture thickens (about 10 minutes or less). Remove from heat and cool. Beat egg whites until stiff. Then slowly add 1 cup sugar, beating until very thick. Fold into cooled walnut mixture. Remove dough from refrigerator and divide in two. Dust with flour. Roll into a rectangle 18” x 20”. Top dough with half the filling. Spread to within 1” of edges. Roll up and place in well greased Bundt pan. Roll out second portion of dough in same manner. Place on top of first roll. Let rise for 30 minutes. Bake 350° about 1 hour or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool 5 minutes before turning out. Dust with powdered sugar. Tilka’s Krofe won first place in the krofe category which Ann Sarley, member of branch No. 50, brought to the Bake-Off Contest. TILKA’S KROFE 11/2 cakes yeast, crumbled (or 2 packets dry yeast) 2 teaspoons flour 2 teaspoons sugar 1/2 cup warm milk (may be removed from measurement below) 7 egg yolks, slightly beaten 2 cups milk 2 cups half-n-half cream 1/8 pound butter 8 or 9 cups flour 112 cup sugar 2 teaspoons salt 3 pound-can Crisco powdered sugar Combine first 4 ingredients, stir and set aside to bubble. Slightly beat egg yolks and set aside. Warm milk and cream to lukewarm. Add butter. In extra large mixing bowl sift flour with sugar and salt. Make a well; add milk-cream-butter liquid, egg yolks and yeast mixture which has started to bubble. Stir with wooden spoon until well mixed; keep beating the rest of the flour for 30 or 35 minutes. Lightly flour top of dough, cover with towel or cloth; then put in warm place to raise at least double in size (about 1 1/2 to 3 hours). Beat down again for just 2 minutes and let raise again in warm place to double. Turn out on floured board or cloth; gently stretch or pat down with hands to about 3/4 inch thickness and smooth as possible. Dip doughnut cutter into flour; press out and remove each round gently and place on slightly floured cloth. Cover cut out doughnuts with cloth and let raise for about 1 hour. Leftover dough can be gathered and beaten again, raised and cut again for more krofe, or it can be put into bread pans for delicious bread. Fry krofe (4 or 5) in medium-hot Crisco (using about 2/3 can). Test heat with a piece of dough — must sizzle and come to top of Crisco. Cover and fry about 2 minutes or until golden brown on one side; turn and fry uncovered on other side. Remove gently and powder with sugar. Test for doneness and adjust heat; add Crisco if necessary. Makes about 55 to 60 krofe. * * * One of the most popular desserts at The Slovene Home for the Aged is Noodle Strudel: NOODLE STRUDEL 1 8 ounce package 1/4 inch noodles 2 pounds small curd cottage cheese 3 eggs, beaten 1 cup sugar 2 cups golden raisins 1 cup sour cream Cook and drain noodles. Add cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, raisins and sour cream. Stir until well blended and put into 9 x 13-inch pan, buttered. Sprinkle with buttered crumbs. Bake 1 hour at 350° until firm. Happy Easter! Hermine NO. 25. CLEVELAND, OH Regardless of the blizzard on our February meeting day, we had a good showing of members. We had our annual Benefit that day and Father Boznar did the honors in selecting the names. The First Prize, Afghan made by Jennie Feme was won by Aggie Zupančič, 1391 E. 51st St. Second Prize, Lap Robe donated by Margaret Tomazin went to Anna Jaksic, 6111 St. Clair. The Third Prize, G.E. Clock donated by Jennie Feme went to Rose Kosko, 13128 Astor. Congratulations to all winners. Members did a good job selling tickets. The Zele Funeral Homes paid for the printing. Many thanks. Benefit of this project went to the St. Vitus Church and Slovene Home for the Aged. DOROTHY STERNISHA LIKES VISITORS Mrs. Dorothy Sternisha just celebrated her 91st birthday, on February 6th! She was born at Ravne, fara Bloke in Slovenia. Being a member of a large family, she had little formal schooling and was taught to make her own living at a very early age. After she came to Cleveland to join her father and older sister who already immigrated here, she earned a meager salary at the Cleveland Mother of the Year 1981 is Frances Macerol, a deserving member. Read about her in the May issue. Sorry but the name of Rose Bizjak was omitted in the last report and this was brought to my attention by members. Our records have her only 83 years old. Would be nice if we could take 10 years off our ages! Oprostite, Rose. We have many members in the hospital. After being there a month, Loretta Slapnik was able to have heart surgery. Angela Trchek also had surgery. Others in the hospital are Mary Jeraj, Mary Telban, Leona Olich, Frances Philips and many more are sick. God give them health soon. Members, say a prayer for them. Since Jan. 1st four of our members passed away, Rose Fifolt, Agnes Petek, Mary Koncan and Mary Zadnik. Eternal rest grant unto them, o Lord. May they rest in peace. Our sympathies to their loved ones. Hermine Dicke, the food editor of our ZARJA, was a judge at the Bake-off sale at the Slovenian Home on St. Clair on Feb. 8th. The sale was a huge success, proceeds of which went to the United Societies Hardware Co. on 49th and Hamilton Ave. When she was a young girl bread cost 51 a loaf, coffee was 13e dearly rever for all her goodness, forebearance, counsel and perseverance of an indomitable will. God grant her everlasting peace and happiness. C. which will be held July 18 and 19, 1981 in Lemont, Illinois. The president has more information for those who are interested in making the bus trip to the Conference. The Mother of the Year for 1981 was elected by the group. Chosen for this honor was Mary (Mrs. Leo) Fox. Plans were made for the Mother of the Year Breakfast which will be held May 3rd in Father Frederick Hall after the 10:30 Mass. Josie Kapla will serve as general chairman. All of the members will help prepare the breakfast. Plans will be finalized at the next meeting. Anne Dickovich presented a talk on “Eggs, Warm Ideas for Chilly Days.” She had attended an extension program where eggs were the “subject of the day” and she related this information to our group. Literature on eggs was also distributed. Hostesses for the evening were Blanche Laurich, Mary Michelich, Sophie Michelich and Anne Michelich. Next meeting will be held on April 29th at Father Frederick Hall. Hostesses will be Antonia Mestnick, Anne Dickovich and Mary Brletich. MARY MICHELICH, Reporter NO. 85, DEPUE, IL I’m late in writing this report which contains sad news. We have lost two of our senior members, Mrs. Agnes Resetich, 82 years, died on Dec. 30th, 1980. Funeral Mass was offered by Rev. Edward Fitton at St. Mary’s church and burial was at the church cemetery. Mrs. Resetich is survived by 5 sons and 1 daughter and 17 grandchildren. Mrs. Anna Miller, 84, died on Feb. 4th, 1981. Funeral Mass was at St. Mary’s and burial also at the church cemetery. Among her survivors are a son, a sister and 5 grandchildren. Our deepest sympathy to their families. May they rest in peace! Belated Happy Birthday greetings to all who celebrated in January, February and March. To all who are ill, may you soon recovery and improve in health., With Spring coming, we will be able to get out more! FRANCES MACHEK, Reporter NO. 86, NASHWAUK, MN Our meeting was held on Jan 28 with President, Mary Zakrajšek leading the prayer. Reading of minutes and general order of business was held and approved. Christine Meyer was unanimously voted as the Mother of the Year. She is a very dedicated member, has held office as secretary and treasurer for many years; and is always willing to help. Election of officers was also held. The following were unanimously elected: President, Mary Zakrajšek; Vice President. Elizabeth Zakrajšek; Secretary and Treasurer, Christine Meyer; Recording Secretary, Kate Stimac. Auditor, No. 1, is Mary Gram, No. 2, Nettie Gangle, and No. 3, Marion Dergantz. Sergeant at Arms is Mayme Pansino and Reporter, Kate Stimac. Spiritual advisor, Fr. Rudolph Pakiz. Our meeting date has been changed to the 4th Wednesday of the month instead of the 4th Tuesday. Meeting time is at 7:30 p.m. Meeting closed with prayer for our sick and deceased members by the president. Social hour followed with guests invited. Mary Zakrajšek was the hostess. Respectfully submitted, KATE STIMAC, Reporter NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL Well, now that the holidays are over, its time to get back to business. With the opening of the first meeting of the year, with 33 members attending including myself, we are looking forward to another good year. You might be interested to know that we honor our Mother-of-the-Year, Manda Dosen, on May 6th at 7 P.M. at the Sacred Heart School Hall. Mary (Bob) Perkovich has accepted the responsibility as Chairperson (721-4271) who will put it all together with her Co-Chair-Person, Evelyn Driscoll, (731-5088). This year the party will be catered by Marge Doherty, and the Dinner Tickets will be $5. If your Ticket Reservation has not been sent, blitz it in immediately by calling, Mary or Evelyn (their phone numbers are listed above). These zealous, industrious gals are hard at work to make this affair one of the best. Table decorations using a Valentine theme were lovingly prepared by Julie Hansen, Mary Toporis, Helen Santy, Mary Brozynski, Lucille Nosich, Bernice Morrison, Matilda Martin, and Fran Seabloom; the above donated the goodies and hosted the evening. Door prizes were Chocolate hearts by yours truly and the lucky winners were, Martha Štampar, Julie Hansen and Matilda Martin. Cash by: Rose Krneta $3, Helen Yuratovac, and Marge Simunic $2, Helen and Marie Zeffero and Marge Doherty $1. Get well wishes to Ann Starcevich, Kate Alfirevich and Theresa Franbarger (N. Carolina) who were hospitalized. May the good Lord bless all of you with a speedy return to full health. Happy to have Lou Goldina back with us again, after her stint in the hospital. Our deepest sympathy to Frances Benkovich, on the loss of her beloved husband who was a splendid man, brilliant, an upright leader in his community and an outstanding citizen. The community and his many friends will miss him. I wish to express our condolences to Diane Wojnovich on the loss of her beloved husband, who also was an outstanding personality, and will never be forgotten by the many who knew him so well. May God bless their souls and may they find everlasting peace. At last their dream came true. Fran and George Griffin became grandparents of a baby girl, born on Dec. 15, weighed in at 7 lbs. 2 oz. The proud great grandmother is Hattie Isek. Our heartiest congratulations! April Birthdays: Mary Nicksic, Regina Buchanan, Marge Innis, Mary Pavelich, Matilda Quinn, Mary Aikovich, Rosalie Rozek, Ann Laski, Helen Willis Jr., Genevieve Kovacevich (Allegan, Mich.) and Ann Brkljacich. Rich blessings, good health and happiness is my wish to all of you at this Easter season. Happy Easter! MILDRED JAMES NO. 96, UNIVERSAL, PA Dear members of Lodge 96, I hope you all have been waiting as I have for the snow to melt and spring to arrive. I wish to thank all those members who have been so prompt in sending their dues for the year 1981 and who have assisted me in taking care of the books in my new position. I have enjoyed all the letters from all over the United States. It is very gratifying to hear from all of you and hear how everyone is doing. Since my last article in the Zarja I have heard refreshing news concerning Mary Klemenčič. She is now recuperating at her home on Clements Rd. and I hope to see her attending our lodge meetings again soon. I have also received a call from a member of our lodge informing us that one of our members who is very ill celebrated her 73rd birthday on March 1. This lovely member is Irene Zavarella of Renton, Pa. If anyone would like to send her a card she is now residing with her daughter On a beautiful, balmy autumn day, the Illinois-Indiana State Convention was hosted by Br. 95, at South Chicago on October 5, 1980. Early arrivals were greeted and served coffee and rolls at the Sacred Heart School Hall. At about 11:30 a.m., the assembled group left the school hall to attend the 11:40 a.m. Holy Mass at the Sacred Heart Church. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Mark Kozina, O.F.M. pastor, who also gave the homily in which he stressed the important role women today are playing not only in our relationship with our families, but also in dealing with those in the outside world. The choir was directed by Sister Deanne Tumpich while William Driscoll was reader-commentator. Gift bearers were Mary Muller, National President of Slovenian Women’s Union, Angela Nico, Regional President and Mildred James, President of hostess branch no. 95. After Mass, everyone walked over to the Jovial Club for dinner and the meeting. The afternoon activities began with the Invocation by Fr. Mark Kozina. Dinner was enjoyable and everyone was attentative to the State Convention meeting. Mrs. Angela Nico, State (Regional) President presided at the Convention of the Illinois-lndiana branches of Slovenian Women’s Union. The Pledge ot Allegiance to the Flag was made and a welcome extended to all present, first in the Slovenian language, then in English. Mrs. Nico introduced the guests attending. Mrs. Mary Muller, National President of Chicago greeted the assembly and thanked Br. 95 as hostesses. She also thanked the committee in charge of the delicious dinner and addressed herself to the forthcoming Christian Women’s Conference to take place in July ot 1981 to be held in Lemont, Illinois. She asked that our members attend and take part in its preparation. The usual Zveza Day picnic which has been sponsored by Br. 2 for many years will be relinquished that day in favor of the Conference and religious program. Next introduced was Mrs. Mildred James who welcomed all guests on behalf of Br. 95 and then introduced Mrs. Anne Kompare, National Vice President and chairlady of the convention. National Treasurer, Mary Marolt of Joliet, 111. was next introduced. She expressed her happiness at being able to attend and said she wished to report that the organization is solvent and that an examination by the State of Illinois Department of Insurance was just completed at the Home Office in Joliet. All was found to be in favorable standing. Heritage Day held again in 1980 at Joliet was a successful one and Mrs. Marolt suggested that another branch undertake the Heritage Day festivities in the coming year. Olga Ancel, National Secretary of the S.W.U. was introduced and spoke to the assembly on the importance of the recently approved assessment increase that is in effect since July of 1980, stating that it was necessary due to the high percentage of expenses in ratio to the low income which the S.W.U. gets from its membership contributions. The new dues schedule approved at the 1979 National Convention was needed. She asked that we concentrate on activities in order to bring in more new members saying it is important to enroll families and also needed are younger members for a more vigorous future. The Regional President then called on Branch whose address is 214 Waddell Ave., Donora, Pa. 15033. I would like to remind all our ladies to try to attend all the meetings at the Center Slovenian Club Center, Pa. In closing I would like to wish all our members good luck and good health in this new year. Yours truly, CHERYL PODOBNIK NO. 100, FONTANA, CA April 26 has been designated as the date for Corporate Communion at St. John Bosco’s church in East Highland at 9:00 a.m. Our spiritual advisor, (that nice guy) Fr. Strancar, is pastor of the named church. Breakfast will follow the service. You can be assured that the meal served will be absolutely delicious, as have been those in the past. Although Florence Strnad is no longer a member of the S.W.U., we wish her a quick recovery from the illnesses that have incapacitated her. Florence is a terrific woman, deeply involved in the welfare of the Catholic Church. She was always available when a hand was needed. We pray that soon she will be able to resume her good works to full capacity. Rose Montag also receives our prayers to help speed her on the road to good health. A lovely lady was cnosen as our Mother of the Year. All the women who have been chosen in the past have been truly lovely. But where I am concerned, Mary Glad is an exceptionally nice lady. I hold her ir high esteem and place her within my circle of selected friends. Besides, she’s a terrific strudel baker! We are looking forward to the Western States S.W.U. convention that will be held here in Fontana on October 10th of this year. The Regional President of the Western states, Mary Jasina, has placed before us a full measure of plans and likewise asked for suggestions to assure the success of the forthcoming convention. Br. No. 100 has full intentions to make this October conference a memorable one. We cordially invite our sister branches from San Francisco No. 13; Portland, Oregon No. 45 and Enumclaw No. 79 to unite in this undertaking and give the S.W.Union its true meaning and full merit. Mary Tercek surprised us with a monetary gift which we deeply appreciate. We send a thank you across the miles to her in Cleveland, Ohio. Thank You, Mary. Did you see where our thermometers are showing 91 degrees? In February? Ye Gods and little fishes! This weather has gone berzerk! Oh well, its a darn sight better to sweep the dust away than to shovel snow! Right, 23rd St.? Birthday celebrants for the month of February were Mary Glad, Teresa Paro, Dorothy Petrich (the swell headed grandma), Frances Videgar and yours truly. Dear sisters, God grant you many more years of health and happiness. And now a special birthday song to some one I like, respect and see every day. Happy birthday to me, Happy birthday to me, Happy birthday dear Edith Happy birthday to me! No conceit intended, when you get to my age, you can say things that you wouldn’t dare to express otherwise. Age has its compensations after all. A Blessed Easter is wished to all my friends, to my brother and family, not forgetting Elsie Melissa and Mary Galassini of Br. No. 2. Dear God, The little plans I tried to carry through have failed. I will not sorrow; I’ll pause a little while, dear God, And try, again, tomorrow, Respectfully submitted EDITH DRAWENEK Delegates to make their yearly reports according to the desires of their members. Br. 2, Chicago, delegate was Shirley Melissa who reported having 84 Class A members and 47 members over 75 years of age; in Class B they have 149 plus 12 members over 75. There are 103 junior members and 15 socials for a total of 410 members. In the year 7 juniors transferred to adult classes. About 40 to 50 members attend meetings and activities include Mother-Member of the Year Pary in May, Zveza Day in July, a Penny Social in November and Junior as well as Adult Christmas parties in December. All adult members receive birthday cards and one of their members, called the “Sunshine Lady”, sends get well cards to ill members and visits the sick. At all meetings, games and refreshments are included and prizes given. Br. 2 suggests that more junior activities be instituted and entertainment such as bus excursions, etc. be made for members. They disapprove of the increase in dues and have lost 11 members because of it. In the group today were 14 members and two husbands. Br. 5, Indianapolis, Indiana did not send in a report. Br. 16, South Chicago, delegate was Phyllis Perko. She reported 216 members as follows, 48 adult class A and 115 Class B, 42 juniors and 11 social members. Between 35 to 40 members attend their meetings. They play popular games and hold memorial services at the death of a member. They also participate in the Midwest Bowling Tournament and have yearly card and games parties. They also donated $100 to St. George’s Church. Dues of over-age members are defrayed by the branch. They are proud of their “kitchen band” and enjoy this activity. They celebrate Mother’s Day with a party in May at which time all the “queens for a day” receive an album of their life history. Today there were 35 members and 4 husbands in attendance. Br. 20, Joliet, 111. delegate is the secretary, Agnes Lovati. They have 237 Class A members, and 223 Class B, plus 130 juniors and 12 social members, total 602. Their meeting attendance varies, depending on many factors such as weather, other activities and the day’s program. They try to make their meetings interesting, especially to include juniors. Their activities are a regular Bowling league, attendance awards given at meetings, popular games played at every meeting if possible. They are planning a Grape Harvest Dance in the fall and a Halloween party for their junior members. As for improvements, they are always looking for something to make their branch more interesting so that the juniors will not hesitate joining with the adult group. They praise the ZARJA highly as it serves as a uniting force and selling point for new members. 28 members and 3 husbands were in attendance. Br. 22, Bradley, 111, Gabrielle Lustig, secretary and delegate. They have a total of 16 members, 14 insured and 2 social of whom 12 usually attend meetings. The branch held their 4th annual Slovenian picnic in the summer to keep up with their heritage and have plans for a special Christmas dinner meeting. Also, they plan to continue financial aid to the St. Joseph’s parish school in Bradley. Members especially approve of the ZARJA, saying it is a good magazine, also they like belonging to the SWU as it provides a time to meet and socialize, a time to make them aware of their mother tongue. No changes were recommended and today there were 12 members and their driver present. Br. 24, LaSalle, 111, delegate is Emma Shimkus. At present, they have 105 adult members, 2 socials and 21 juniors, averaging about 12 to 18 attending the meetings. Branch projects are garage and bake sales, selling SWU cookbooks, annual Mother of the Year and Christmas parties and they pay for two masses for each deceased member plus providing honorary pallbearers if the family wishes. They enjoy the ZARJA magazine, the idea of keeping in touch with their own heritage is appealing, they enjoy reading Pots and Pans in ZARJA and exchanging recipes. Their greatest concern is that the meetings and conventions be run according to the Roberts Rules of Order. Discussion on this topic brought out the fact that the SWU By-laws and Regulations are very easy to follow, and everything is specified in it. They suggested that the President or Vice-President notify them in writing of any branch change. Ten members and two husbands and 5 guests attended today’s event. Br. 85, DePue, 111. made no report and no one attended the Convention. Br. 89, Oglesby, 111. delegate is Mary Ann Samuelson, President, reporting that they have 54 members with 15 to 20 attending meetings. Their projects and activities are many. May and Christmas dinners are held, as well as bake sales, white elephant sales, travel movies, remembering ill members with sunshine cards and visiting nursing homes. They approve of having Heritage Days and the ZARJA with recipes and lodge news, the Immigrant stories; improvements are progress reports and details on the Slovenian Museum and Heritage Collections. The branch has lost 11 members due to the increase in dues and would suggest that on the membership application blanks the word Christian be used instead of Catholic. Eight members attended this meeting. Br. 95, So. Chicago, 111. delegate is president and co-chairlady, Mildred James. In Br. 95, they have 132 Class B. members, 9 over 75 and 2 Class A members, 8 over 75, also, 5 juniors and 12 socials, total 168 members. About 35 to 40 members regularly attend meetings although they have as many as 100 at special events. They have the same projects yearly that their members enjoy, such as Mother of the Year, Yearly book for money-making, Christmas party, traveling to various night clubs. They give $120 yearly to the Sacred Heart Church, etc. Members feel that entertainment has a definite value in their lives. Branch problem is that only a few members attend wakes and funerals, some members never do. They have a solid and sound branch. The President, Mrs. James, has good cooperation in making many improvements through the years. Some members disapprove of the increase in dues, they would prefer to see an increase in burial benefits. They also pay dues of members in nursing homes. Present today were 52 members and a few husbands. Br. 99, Elmhurst, 111 sent no report. They have only 8 members and all are senior citizens. After the reading of reports and discussion, the President, Mrs. Nico, asked what projects and activities are being contemplated at the present and what new ideas there are for the future. Mrs. Shimkus asked that branches holding dinners should remember that it is equally important to sponsor spiritual events as we all need help and guidance, also we should pray more so that our young will join in this effort to carry on the organization. Br. 16 stressed that their meetings are happy social gatherings at which they speak Slovenian and English, singing together and enjoying themselves. They recommend that members pool their cars in order to bring more members together for the meetings. Togetherness is very important. Mrs. Nico added that the subject was open for suggestions for improvements and asked that criticisms be aired at the meeting and not afterward. Some of the ideas following were: From Br. 2, Shirley Melissa, that we must remember the financial aspect as well as social get togethers. That we are spending a lot for the publishing of ZARJA; why do we have to print so many copies and why do more than one person in a household get separate copies? Explanations are made but no improvements made. She thinks $40,000 yearly is too much to spend on ZARJA. Olga Ancel answered that all the economical methods are used by their office and the editor in order to keep the cost down. Every member is entitled to a copy and double copies are cancelled with the permission of the member. Mrs. Nico added to keep in mind the rate of inflation is constantly rising. Polly Klobučar of Br. 16 suggest that two more pages of advertisements be made to help defray the cost of printing. Mrs. Nico answered that the solicitation of ads is recommended at each convention and tried without success. Ann Pave of Br. 16 asked that a cheaper paper be used and Mrs. Shimkus of Br. 24 suggested that we reduce the size of the issue. All disagreed with this as they all prefer this present size. The members also like to read the activities in Slovenian although there are fewer Slovenian readers. Mrs. Nico asked for ways to increase enrollment of new members. Agnes Lovati of Br. 20 suggested that the organization should stress young adults and that something should be done for the younger member, not relying only on the social membership. We should stress young adults themselves under age 25 pay for dues not their mothers. They also disapprove of officers’ salaries. The Mortuary benefits were explained by Vice President, Ann Kompare. Every member receives the death benefit payable to her beneficiary according to the classification she joins. The Mortuary Fund must remain solvent so that future payments are guaranteed. There are many organizations that are together only for social reasons. When the SWU was formed, the insurance idea was incorporated into the membership and dues payments include both the Mortuary Fund and the Expense Fund Contributions. Mrs. Kompare added that membership should mean more to us than the amount that will be paid to our beneficiaries as we won’t be here to enjoy it anyway. We join for the reasons listed in our credo, that is: “The purposes for which the Slovenian Women’s Union was organized is for spiritual and civicmindedness, to foster American and ethnic ideals and encourage participation in local and national civic affairs and support their programs for the betterment of womanhood.” She added that with the trend now to knowing your “roots” the S.W.U. has another important role to play in the education of our youth to know more about their heritage. I The subject of the word CHRISTIAN to be used in the application for membership instead of CATHOLIC brought much discussion. An explanation was made by the National Secretary that members married to men of another faith are still eligible to be members provided they were married in a Catholic ceremony. Helen Golich of Br. 95 stated that we do not use the world CATHOLIC in our title and that any woman who complies with the rules of membership, having good health, moral character, etc. may be brought into the organization. Mrs. Ancel suggested that the word CHRISTIAN is more understood in this time and we are only keeping up with modern thought. Polly Klobučar of Br. 16 asked the both Catholic and Christian be used in the form. Father David Stalzer, a member of Br. 20, defined the differences between Christian and Catholic. He stressed that in our multi-faceted society, it is hard to explain who are and who aren’t followers of Christ. Good people have problems today, marriages fail, divorce and remarriage is common. We should show compassion for each other and mercy to all Christians by opening our memberships to all. It is necessary to make the organization attractive and not be controversial. Quality membership will be just as evident in a membership that understands “Christian” as that which years ago understood “Catholic.” Mrs. Nico asked for any objections or exceptions to be suggested for the By-Laws. There were none. Mrs. Ancel commented on the Slovenian Heritage Day and Heritage Museum progress and between Mrs. Ancel and Mrs. Lovati, the assembly heard a descriptive report of the way the successful event has been carried out. Now there is $13,000 in the Heritage Fund and they are collecting articles for the Museum. All old national costumes, artifacts, books, domestic memorabilia, pictures, etc. are welcome. Many members told of their treasured pieces and promised to send them to the SWU Home Office for eventual use in the Museum, such as, a piece of embroidery at least 150 years old and a miner’s cap from the turn of the century. Millie Pucel of Br. 20 appealed to other branches in Illinois to take the reins of this project and commit themselves to next Heritage Day. She offered the help of the Joliet members to set up this event elsewhere in Illinois. Mentioned in this regard was the Slovenian Museum located at the Southern Illinois University and the Heritage Museum of the SNPJ in Pennsylvania. The members received a message of greeting via the telephone from Corinne Leskovar, Editor of ZARJA who could be present for the meeting. The previous evening she and her husband celebrated the 30th anniversary of their Slovenian Radio Broadcast in Chicago and it was a gala cultural program with guest artists from Slovenia. She was also named as Slovenian Woman of the Year. The convention membership commended her on the honor saying it was well deserved. Mrs. Nico then recognized and congratulated all past state Presidents and National Officers present. National President, Mrs. Muller extended congratulations to Br. 95 officers of 25 years standing, President, Mildred James and Recording Secretary, Evelyn Driscoll. They were thanked for their long years of service. Br. 2, Chicago was selected as the site of the 1981 State Convention. Mrs. Ann Mladic, Vice President of Br. 2 accepted in the name of Br. 2. Among the guests this day was Victor Mladic, president of the Chicago Chapter of the Bishop Baraga Association who greeted the assembly and asked that we all work and pray for the Cause for Bishop Baraga’s Canonization. As chairlady of the event, Mrs. Kompare thanked all the committees and especially Mrs. Nico as presiding officer. Motion for adjournment was made by members of Br. 20. Fr. David Stalzer gave the concluding prayer. Before dinner and after adjournment, Steve Zookopny of the Royal Cavalier Orchestra entertained with accordian selections. Evelyn Driscoll, Recording Secretary I I I I I I IMPORTANT FOR TRAVELERS TO THE S.W.U. CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONFERENCE! Those arriving to Lemont, Illinois by auto or bus may wish to expand their visit with some sightseeing or vacationing in the area. Arrangements can be made for a visit to the S.W.U. Home Office in Joliet before or after the Conference where we will offer a preview look at the Heritage Museum and Headquarters. Please get in touch with our National President, Mary Muller or any Regional President when making your travel plans. They are listed below. ILLINOIS BRANCHES TAKING PART IN CONFERENCE DOINGS Officers and members of Illinois branches in Chicago, Joliet, South Chicago, Bradley, LaSalle-Oglesby, are volunteering for committee work during the S.W.U. Christian Women’s Conference. They will take care of registrations, supervise activities and do the myriad hostessing chores that will be needed. We are very grateful to them all. Slovenians have a long history of loyalty to the beautiful shrine, and we look forward to meeting there again in the atmosphere of prayer and thanksgiving. I i GENERAL CHAIRMAN Mary, Muller, National President 1846 W. 23rd St. Chicago, IL 60608 MINNESOTA Victoria Bobence, Rt. 2, Box 5030 Ely, MN 55731 I PA—NY—D.C. Lucille Smith, 37 Latimer Strabane, PA 15363 I OHIO—MICHIGAN c/o Irene Jagodnik, National Auditor 6786 Metro Park Dr., Cleveland, OH 44143 I CA—OR—WASH Mary Jasina, 1021 E. Yale, Ontario, CA 91764 I ILLIN OIS—INDIAN A Angela Nico, 115 Portland, Oglesby, IL 61348 I CO—KANS—MO Frances Simonich, 1113 Mahren, Pueblo, CO 81006 I WISCONSIN Anna Modiz, 1317 Penn Ave., Sheboygan, WI 53081 RESERVATION FORM Slovenian Women’s Union of America — CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONFERENCE July 18-19, 1981, Lemont, Illinois Circle one: PACKAGE “A” $50.00 I enclose $_____________for_______ PACKAGE “B” $40.00 __________person(s) Name(s): Address:, _Zipcode:. I am traveling with a group from: I am traveling alone and wish to have sleeping accommodations for (single) (double) (triple) (quadruple) (please circle one) My partner(s) will be: _______________________________________________________ (Please send above form to Slovenian Women’s Union, 431 N. Chicago, Joliet, IL 60432) Deadline for reservations on Package *'A” is July 1, 1981 CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONFERENCE July 18—19, 1981 Lemont, Illinois PROGRAM OF EVENTS Saturday, noon: Registration at Baraga Retreat House Luncheon 2 p.m.: First Conference, Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, OFM, Spiritual Director of S.W.U. as Moderator 4:30 p.m.: Meditation and Confession 6:00 p.m.: Dinner 8:00 p.m.: Candlelight Holy Mass at Outdoor Grotto in Slovenian vernacular, Fr. Athanasius, Officiant Procession around Baraga Park and Singing Litany. Sunday, 9:00 a.m.: Penitential Rite 11:00 a.m.: High Mass at the Grotto in English vernacular, Most. Rev.Alosyius Ambrožič, D.D., Aux. Bishop of Toronto, Officiant and Homilist. 12:30 p.m.: Dinner 2:30 p.m.: Second Conference 5:00 p.m.: Supper served before departure. Refreshments will be available all Sunday afternoon at the outdoor pavilion. We will pray together, learn together and share our affection for one another! Our Lady of Fatima statue at Slovenian Franciscans’ Shrine, Lemont, Illinois Leading the Liturgical singing: for Saturday evening will be members of the Slovenian chorus, "Slovenska Pesem” directed by Rev. Vendelin Spendov, O.F.M. Sunday’s Liturgy will be led by the Sisters’ Chorus of Mt. Assisi Convent in Lemont, directed by Sister Michelle, O.F.M. COST PACKAGES FOR THE CONFERENCE MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW. send your name with remittance for Package A or B to the S.W.U. Home Office, 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432. Only 120 reservations can be made for PACKAGE A; those received later will be given PACKAGE B. Nearby Holiday Inn and Best Quality Motel will accommodate guests with autos at the following rates: Please make your own motel reservations directly. HOLIDAY INN MOTEL 7800 Kingery Hwy. Willowbrook, IL. Tel. (312) 325-6400 Ask for sales office: Janet or Kathy $49.00 Double, $6.00 for additional beds in same room QUALITY MOTEL 300 S. Frontage Rd. Hinsdale, IL. 60521 Tel. (312) 325-2900 Ask for sales office: Linda $35.50 Double Children under 18 Free PACKAGE A: Complete two day package for all five meals, (two on Saturday and three on Sunday), overnight sleeping (double, triple or quadruple room accommodations) at Baraga Retreat House, all package materials and expense contribution, $50.00 per person. PACKAGE B: Meals and package materials only, no sleeping accommodations, $40.00 per person. INDIVIDUAL MEAL TICKETS: will be available at the Retreat House for nominal charges. Entry into Conference rooms will be for Package ticket holders first. Deadline for the left two motels is July 1st — until then we are holding a block of rooms under the name of Slovenian Women’s Union. Please refer to this name when reserving for the corporate room rate. What do these people have in common? Miss Ohio, Miss San Francisco, Miss International Surf Queen Hawaii, Miss Kuropc, and Miss Australia? The first bishop to issue his pastoral letters in Indian languages. President Kennedy's eye doctor, the commanding officer of the largest American naval shipyards, the l!. S. military representative to the I nited Nations, and a member of the Roval Society of Kngland? A foremost I1. S. OI> mpic gv mnast the best gymnast of Kuropc, the fastest junior woman athlete of Australia, the trainer of the U. S. Olympic Skiing Team, and the winner of five gold medals at l ake Placid's 1480 Winter Olympics? The father of mass airplane production, the conceptual father of the postage stamp, and the Nobel Pri/e-winning father of micro-analysis? The winner of a gold medal at the St. I.ouis World hair, the best of the modernistic painters of Chicago, and designers of the Christian Science Center in Boston, (he llamedina Complex in Tel Aviv, Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, and l.'Knl'ant Pla/a and Robert Kennedy Stadium in Washington, D.C.? The first immigrant senator of Australia, the only live-term governor of Ohio, mayors of Cleveland and Indianapolis, and chancellors of Germany and Austria? What do all these people have in common? Well, they are all of Slovenian descent, and their pictures appear in Slovenian Heritage, Vol. I (642 pages, casebouird). 1 his large, beautiful, and fascinating book costs only $16 a copy, plus SI.50 for mailer and postage, and may he ordered from:Slovenian Research Center of America, Inc., 29227 K.ddy Road. Willoughby hills. Ohio 44092. Slovenian Research Center of America, Inc. BOOKS SLOVENIAN HERITAGE, Vol. I Edited by Prof. Edward (Jobetz with assistance of Milena Gobetz and Ruth Lakner • The most comprehensive and informative book on Slovenian heritage ever published in English • Over 640 pages of 6 x 9 format • A condensed summary chapter on Slovenian history • The most comprehensive overview of Slovenian American history and contributions • Amazing Slovenian contributions to the world • Gems of Slovenian literature, many never before available in English • Ethnic nostalgia and reminiscences of Slovenian Americans • Over 700 photographs • Casebound (hard cover) for beauty and durability • Available at an incredibly low price of $16 per copy. Also available from the Center: Gobetz-Donchenko, Anthology of Slovenian American Literature, $7 Gobetz-Loncar, Slovenian Language Manual, Vol. I, $7 GobetzLoncar, Slovenian Language Manual, Vol. II, $8 Please add $1.50 for postage and mailer for the first book and $1 for each additional copy. In bookstores, the price is $2 higher per book. In Canada, please add the difference between U. S. and Canadian dollars. Order from: SLOVENIAN RESEARCH CENTER 29227 Eddy Road Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44092 Missing Something In Your Life? Subscribe to the American Home newspaper and become better informed on the latest news about the people and events in the Slovenian American communities in the greater Cleveland, northeastern Ohio, throughout the U.S. and Canada. You'll be proud to be a Slovenian. English Friday section, $10.00 per year. Send check or Money Order to: Weekly American Home, 6117 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44103. FREE SECRETSLOVAK COOKBOOKLET Revised Rydal Family Collection!! Slovak Recipes I)ept. Z 1836 Timothy, W. Mifflin, PA 15122 Featuring I'aska, Cabbage-rolls, Nut-rolls, Pierogi and Secret Sensible Dessets. Send $2.00 postage and handling for each. Ideal for Easter Recipe Planning. V TRAJNO POČASTITEV Ko gledamo nazaj v zgodovino naših slovenskih pionirjev in emigrantov, ki so bodisi iz političnih, ali gospodarskih razlogov zapustili krasne hribe in doline njihove rodne Slovenije, da so našli nov dom in nove možnosti za dostojno življenje. Zapustili so male vasi, ki so se vzdrževale s kmetovanjem in malimi tovarnami in prišli v novem svetu v velika mesta z obsežnimi delavnicami in raznovrstnimi rudniki. Naši slovenski izseljenci po večini niso bili učeni ljudje in veliki gospodarstveniki, zato so se v Ameriki morali uživeti v nove industrijske razmere, v katerih so odigrali zelo važno vlogo s svojim trdim ročnim delom. Slovenska ženska zveza želi postaviti trajno spominsko počastitev vsem delavnim ljudem. Ker je ob začetku tega stoletja rudarstvo bilo med najvažnejšimi panogami zaposlitve naših novih naseljencev, zato želimo postaviti spomenik vsem slovenskim rudarjem in delavcem. Mnogo naših rojakov se je naselilo v Železnem okrožju Minnesote, kjer so našli svojo zaposlitev kot rudarji, zato je prav, da se ta spomenik postavi v tem okrožju. Potrebne so nam 3 stvari: 1. Denar za spomenik. 2. Prostor, kjer bi se spomenik postavil. 3. Navdušenje za ta načrt. V načrtu imamo, da bo spomenik dovršen do maja prihodnjega leta, ko se bo vršila konvencija SŽZ v Chisholm, Minnesota. Potrebno je, da mi javno označimo naše slovenske delavce in njihov važni doprinos k zgodovini naše ljubljene dežele. Združimo svoje sile v počastitivi naših prionirjev, Staršev, starih staršev, sosedov in prijateljev. Če imate kako idejo v zvezi s tem projektom, Vas prosim, da mi pišete ali pa pokličete. Za Vašo prijazno sodelovanje, se Vam že ve naprej prisrčno zahvalim. Pozdravlja, REV. DAVID STALZER Mamin hstic Mama mi je stisnila listič tik preden je izstopila iz vlaka v Sežani. “Če ti bo kdaj težko, pa preberi tale listič!”, mi je rekla. Preden sem odgovorila je že izstopila iz vlaka in vlak se je začel pomikati. To je bilo pred mnogimi leti, ko sem zapustila svojo rodno domovino. Moje misli takrat so bile veliko bolj splošne, predvsem so se gibale med navezanostjo na mamo, na planine in na slovensko zavednost. Listič je v teh letih velikokrat služil svojemu namenu, krepilu in tolažbi duha. Zato sem se odločila, da ga bom delila z neštetimi bralkami širom naše nove domovine. V teh letih tehničnega napredka nimamo ali pa si nočemo vzeti časa za razmišljanje. Koliko se je samo spremenilo v letih, odkar žene in matere niso več samo gospodinje in glavni steber družine. Pritisk draginje nas je primoral, da smo klonile novemu naprednemu svetu in se tudi same zaposlile, pa čeprav na račun svojih družin. Toda, ko leta teko, prihajajo z njimi tudi najrazličnejše težave, skrbi in podobne neprijetnosti. V takih trenutkih prihaja mamin listič kot tolažilen obisk dobre iskrene prijateljice. Takole se glasi: Kadar boš žalostna se spomni, * da so ljudje ki živijo blizu tebe, ki so neozdravljivo bolni, brez upanja, da bi se jim vrnilo zdravje, * da v trenutku, ko se ti predajaš svoji žalosti, nekomu umira njegov najdražji, * da so hiše bolečin in trpljenja, ki jim pravimo bolnice, bolnice za duševne bolne itd., kjer bi ti šele izmerila velikost svoje žalosti, ki je pogosto nepotrebna, * da je vse na svetu minljivo; tako kot se menjata dan in noč, pride za žalostjo veselje, četudi včasih le majhno, * da prav tako, kakor ne grozi iz vsakega oblaka nevihta, marsikatero zlo, ki ga boš pričakovala, sploh ne bo prišlo, * da se zelo motiš, če misliš, da je tvoje trpljenje največje, * da je čisto nepotrebno mučiti sebe in druge zaradi nečesa, kar se ne da več spremeniti, * da se na svetu vrstita radost in žalost in da se ti bo včasih to, kar te danes žalosti, zdelo poz-nejo čisto malenkostno, prav tako kakor otroške bolezni, za katere več ne vemo, * da si škoduješ že s trditvijo, da si nesrečna, kajti tudi ta trditev le krepi misel, da boš res nesrečna, * da je veliko bolje živeti in verovati v boljši jutrišnji dan, kakor obupavati in izgubljati nado, * da raste iz trpljenja značaj - in narod potrebuje dobrih značajev! nikova ANA GABER: Vprašanje brez odgovora Št. 2, Chicago 1L. NAŠA SLOVENSKA DEDIŠČINA Velikonočni motiv (Maxim Gaspari) Ludovik Puš: Spomini lastnega otroštva Ludvetova Velika noč Naj bo vigred zgodnja ali pozna, konec marca in v začetku aprila je njena zmaga nad zimo dokončna. Tačas začno mačice plezati v vrbinje in drobje čebelice živo obletavajo leskove abranke ter se vse rumene — kakor bi bile popadale v zlat prah — vračajo v svoje ulnjake. Toda velika noč se ravna po luninem koledarju in tistega leta jo je koledar kazal pozno, šele sredi aprila. Zato pa za butare na cvetno nedeljo ni bilo stiske, kje dobiti zelenja. Bilo je lepega, temno zelenega brišljana s košatimi kobuli črnih jagod, kolikor si ga hotel. In so bile zavoljo tega tisto leto v Št. Vidu butare še posebno košate in bahate. Gruntarski fantje so prinesli v farno cerkev takšne, da so jih komaj zmagovali; če je bilo treba za obramo gruntarskih pravic butaro obrniti tako, da je bila pripravna za padec po hrbtu onemu, ki bi se bil drznil kakorkoli ugovarjati ali omalovaževati njeno lepoto in moč. Tudi v cerkvi so onega leta butare prav posebno možato udarjale ob kamniti tlak. Tačas je bila taka navada, rekel bi, skoraj pravica, da so med blagoslovom oljk in butar, pa tudi pozneje med mašo od časa do časa poropotali z butarami po tleh: s tem so posnemali duhovnika, ki s križem udari po cerkvenih vratih, ko sta se prej — po ljudskem izražanju — "z organistom skozi zaprta vrata nekaj kregala”. Tega je že dolgo in marsikaj se je medtem lahko spremenilo. Veliki teden je bil tistega leta poln sonca. Lahke spomladanske sapice so pihljale tako toplo in prijetno, da je bilo moči tudi otroke vzeti s seboj k pomenljivim obredom velikega tedna. Zlasti veliki petek je v šentviški prostrani fari težko pričakovani in dolgo zaželeni dan vseh kmečkih otrok, ki zavoljo večje oddaljenosti od farne cerkve ne morejo v cerkev drugače kot o posebnih prilikah. In taka prilika je ravno veliki petek popoldne, ko se staro In mlado odpravlja k božjemu grobu in počeščenju Križanega, ki leži ob božjem grobu na tleh. Pri Mandrških sicer niso bili tako zelo daleč od farne cerkve, a edini sinko Ludve je bil tačas še majhen: do zakonite šolske starosti mu je še nekaj manjkalo. Nič ni torej čudno, če mu je bilo tistega leta prvič obljubljeno, da pojde — če bo priden — z mamo “Boga kušnit”. Kazno je, da so bili na Mandrgi prepričani, da bo mali junak že toliko pri sebi, da zmaga dolgo pot tja in nazaj. Da bi kdo otroka večji del poti nosil, še misliti ni bilo. Ludve je očividno prepričal očeta in mater, da mu še na misel ne pride, da bi se pustil en sam korak nesti “štuporamo”. Zato je dobil zagotovilo, da letos na vsak način pojde k božjemu grobu — samo, da bi bilo lepo vreme. Vreme je bilo res prekrasno. Da ste ga videli, malega Ludveta, ko je z materjo koračil proti Št. Vidu. Kot da bi bil ves svet njegov! Cajgasta obleka je bila nova in tako polikana, da je bil pri dolgih dačah rob obrnjen navznoter. Suknjič mu je bil precej prevelik. “Otroci hitro rastejo, pa jim je vse takoj premajhno”, so utemeljevali oče svoj prav. Klobuček je bil čisto po Ludvetovem okusu. Okrogel je bil, oglavje podobno nekakemu polcelindru, krajevci ozki in navzgor zasukani. Na levi strani so bila za trak zataknjena peresa, lepo živo pobarvana: bela, modra in rdeča. Nanje je bil posebno ponosen in se ni dal pregovoriti, da bi jih pustil odstraniti, čeprav so se sestre norčevale, da ima pobarvano kurje perje za klobukom. Junaško jo je torej rezal Ludve z materjo proti fari. Na vsej dolgi poti, ki drži čez bogata polja, ni bilo nikjer žive duše. Veliki petek je na kmetih praznik. Ta dan opravljajo samo tista dela, ki veljajo pripravam za največji krščanski praznik — Veliko noč. Nad mladimi setvami po njivah in nad sveže zoranimi brazdami gospodari zadnje dni velikega tedna le božje sonce, topli vetrovi in v sinjih višavah drobna pesem poljskega škrjančka. Tudi ta dan je bilo tako. Sveta tihota je razgrnila svoj pajčolan nad spokojno pokrajino. Deček je občutil, kako leži nad vso zemljo žalost, kakršno je videl v sosedovi hiši, ko so tamkaj oče ležali na mrtvaškem odru. Kadar umrjejo oče, je tiho in žalostno pri tisti hiši. Vse delo se ustavi, samo ljudje prihajajo in odhajajo ter se polglasno in šepetaje pogovarjajo. Kadar pa umrje Bog, je tiho in žalostno po vsem svetu, saj je Bog gospodar vse zemlje in vsega neba. Ko sta romarja dospela do velikih stopnic pred farno cerkvijo, se je iz visokega zvonika oglasil zamolkel ropot raglje. Oznanila je ob tretji uri popoldne spomin bridke smrti Odrešenikove. Ludve je vprašujoče pogledal mater: “Kje so pa zvonovi”? Zakaj ne zvoni? “Na veliki četrtek gredo zvonovi v Rim”, pojasni mati; “zato mora mežnar zvoniti z ropotuljo”. “Kaj pa delajo zvonovi v Rimu?” je silil naprej v mater. “Smrt Gospodovo oznanjajo vsemu svetu s tem, da nikjer ne zvonijo.” Ni razumel take vrste oznanjevanja. “Kdaj se vrnejo?” ga je skrbelo. “Na veliko soboto, ko gospod župnik prvič po Jezusovi smrti slovesno zapojejo alelujo.” “Kaj pa pomeni: aleluja?” “Ali si siten. Vse hočeš naenkrat vedeti. Aleluja pomeni zmago in veselje.” Zamišljeno je stopal mali po velikih, dolgih in širokih stopnicah in ugibal, kako neki pridejo veliki šentviški zvonovi v Rim, o katerem je slišal, da je zelo daleč. Še ni bil stvari dodobra razmislil, že sta stopila skozi stranska vrata v cerkev. šentviška cerkev je velika, kakor se za take obširno faro spodobi. Zidana je — tako kaže — v slogu, ki ni nikak slog, kvečjemu šentviški; ozka je in dolga tako, da organist na koru komaj sliš* mašnika izpred oltarja pri petih mašah. Tudi svetega Vida, ki je po narodovem sprejemu krščanstva zamenjal v tem starodavnem naselju pogansko božanstvo z imenom “Sventovit” ali “Svatovit”, da je ostalo ime nespremenjeno, človek komaj razloči poleg razbeljenega kotla v velikem oltarju, če vstopi pod korom. V stranskih oltarjih stoluje na ženski strani Mati božja, na moški sveti Jožef. Pri oltarju sv. Jožefa je na veliki teden postavljen božji grob, velik in bahat, kot se za bahato faro spodobi. Od tal do vrha stropa segajo mogočne lepo poslikane stene, znotraj pa stojijo stražniki naravne velikosti. Ti so bili malemu Ludvetu močno všeč. Bolj kot na oltar, kjer je med gorečimi svečami stala zlata z belim prozornim pregrinjalom pokrita monštranca, so mu oči uhajale na stražnike. Na glavi so namreč imeli velike čelade, v rokah dolge sulice, ob bokih ostre meče. Zašepetal je materi na uho, ki je klečala pred oožjim grobom in goreče molila zanj in za vse svoje otroke: “Mama, zakaj so oni možje tam?” Na materinem od trpljenja in truda uvelem obrazu se je ustavila molitev. “Jezusa v grobu stražiljo.' “Zakaj ga stražijo?” “Da bi ga ljudje ne ukradli.” “Zakaj bi ga ukradli?” “Ker nočejo na svetu Boga. Ker nočejo, da bi Bog vladal na zemlji.” Fantič teh besed ni prav razumel. Vedel pa je, da v cerkvi ne sme preveč govoriti in spraševati in je utihnil. Ko so Mandrska mati opravili svoje molitve pred božjim grobom in so sinka, ki je še z drugimi vprašanji silil vanje, opozorili, naj ne sprašuje, ampak moli, kakor so ga doma učili, so se pobožno priklonili pred Bogom v božjem grobu in pokleknili v vrsto onih, ki so čakali, da poljubiji znamenja ran na telesu Križanega. Po njihovem zgledu je pokleknil tudi Ludve in ni trenil z očmi od križa. Na svileni blazini je ležal križani Odrešenik. Iz razmesarjenega telesa je tekla kri na glavi, rokah, nogah in na prsih. Tako ubog je bil Človek, ki je na križu umrl, da je malega obšla velika in čudna bridkost. Mama pravijo, daje bil to sam božji sin in da je v trpljenju umrl zavoljo tega, ker ljudje lažejo, kradejo, drug drugega zaničujejo in mu škodo delajo, ubijajo in morijo in še drugačne grehe delajo. Drug za drugim so se sklanjali nad podobo Križanega in mu poljubovali rane na glavi, strani, rokah in nogah. Ludve se je približal materi in zašepetal: “Zakaj ga pa poljubujejo, če pa lažejo, kradejo in morijo?” Materi se je obraz čudno zresnil. “Tiho bodi zdaj! Doma ti bom povedala.” Potem se je sklonila nad križ, pobožno poljubila vseh petero ran in spustila v pušico nekaj drobiža. Gledal je mater in v tistem hipu se je domislil, da se je tudi sam že zlagal. Tudi ukradel je materi iz predala nekaj koščkov sladkorja...... “Zdaj pa poklekni in poljubi Boga še ti," so potegnili Ludveta h križu. Ubogal je, se nagnil nad Križanega in pritisnil drobne ustnice na rano na levi roki, nato na nogah in na prsih. Glave in desne roke ni dosegel. V prsih ga je tisti hip nekaj neznanega stisnilo, daje skoraj zajokal. “Poljubil sem ga, čeprav sem se zlagal in sladkor ukradel.” Od žalosti bi bil najraje zbežal iz cerkve v samoto, da ne bi videl s krvjo oblitega telesa na križu. Domov grede je bil čudno tih. Svoje matere ni nikoli več vprašal za odgovor na ono vprašanje. Po ogenj Tisti večer pred veliko soboto Mandrški Ludve ni mogel zatisniti oči. Predlansko Veliko noč je šel z mamo prvič k božjemu grobu Boga “kušnit” in je bil tačas še majhen in še ni hodil v šolo. Letošnji Ludve je pa že večji. Hodi že v šolo in se sam sebi zdi že čisto velik. “Drevi pa pojdeš prej spat", so odločili skrbna Mandrška mama, “zakaj jutri bo treba zarana vstati, če hočeš kaj blagoslovljenega ognja prinesti domov. Pri fari so zgodnji in mežnar Janez začne kuriti že ob petih.” Ludve je bil drugače ubogljiv fantiček, a nocoj se mu ne da začeti s pripravljanjem za spanje tako zgodaj, kakor mama želijo. Vedno je treba še kaj pripraviti za jutri zjutraj; kje bo pa časa jutri, ko bo treba hiteti, da ne bo med zadnjimi. Zamuditi vendar pod nobenim pogojem ne sme blagoslavljanja ognja. Sramotno bi bilo za tako velikega fanta, če bi svoje gobe ne privžgal naravnost pri ognju, ki ga je iz oljčnih vejic s kresilnim kamnom in gobo prižgal mežnar. To in samo to je pravi blagoslovljeni ogenj, ne pa tak, ki si ga otroci prižigajo ob tlečih gobah kar mimogrede pri drugih ognjenoscih, ker so sami zaradi zaspanosti zamudili in našli pred glavnimi vrati farne cerkve le še ugasle ogorke in pepel. Kaj takega se mu ne sme primeriti, čeprav gre letos prvič po ogenj PREMAGANA JE SMRT, TROHNOBA— Veseli z mano se, o kristjan, na ta velikonočni dan! Veselite se vse stvari, kar na zemlji v nebesa želi! Sedaj obhajamo tisti spomin, ko je vstal od smrti božji Sin. Marija ino Magdalena — to so brumne žene bile. Žene se zjutraj vzdignejo, k pokopališču pridejo. Okoli se ozirajo, kamen odvaljen vidijo. Enega mladenča vidijo, na desni strani sedečega. Bilje angel iz nebes, z belim oblečen čez in čez. Žene, nikar se ne vstrašite, saj vem, koga ve iščete: Jezusa nazarenskega! Pojdite, učencem pravite: Jezus je od smrti vstal, pred vami bo v Galilejo šel! Aleluja! Ljudska pesem Nadaljevanje: Pregledal je do podrobnosti gobo od vseh strani zopet in zopet. Bila je precej velika drevesna goba, ki sta jo bila z očetom prinesla iz gozda že lansko jesen, ko sta tam drvarila za zimo. Mislite, da je vsaka dobra? Biti mora čvrsto zraščena, gosta in dovolj velika. Pomislite vendar, da je do farne cerkve skoraj pol ure! Pa ko bi človek s prižgano gobo kar naravnost domov šel, bi bila stvar bolj enostavna. Ali treba se je gredoč ustaviti pri stari materi na Burjevini, ležeči v sosednjem naselju, da ji prinese blagoslovljenega ognja. Takšna je bila navada že od popred, ko so velikonočni ogenj nosile še njegove starejše sestre. In te navade ni kazalo opustiti, ne samo zavoljo zamere pri stari materi, temveč zlasti zaradi okusnega krapka, ki je narejen iz istega testa kot velikonočna pogača, le da je mnogo boljši, ker je znotraj namazan z medenim nadevom in na gosto potresen z rozinami. Takih slaščic na Mandrgi vendar ni vsak dan in stara mama zna speči posebno sladke krapke. Goba je bila v redu. Popolnoma suha — saj se je sušila celo zimo v kotu na peči — in ob robovih toliko narezljana, da se je je ogenj hitro prijel. Zaradi zanesljivosti jo je fant že več kot teden dni poprej preizkušal, tako da so ga morali mama dan za dnem goniti izpred peči. “Kaj že spet prižigaš gobo? Saj jo boš požgal, preden bo velika sobota! S čim pojdeš potlej po ogenj? Beži mi izpred peči! Še ogenj boš zanetil v hiši!” Tako je šlo dan za dnem ves veliki teden. Kdo bi se čudil, da je takole do tretjine gobe že doma s preizkušanjem pokuril. Na robu je bila s svedrom zvrtana luknja, skoznjo pa vtaknjena močna žica, ki je na drugem koncu imela čisto po pravilih napravljeno zanko, kjer so jo držali prsti roke. Za to zanko so sestre učile Ludveta pravilno držati gobo in mu pokazale, kako se s prsti v zanki goba vrti in vihti v zraku, da med potjo ne ugasne. Zakaj ugaslo gobo prinesti domov bi ne pomenilo samo velike sramote za ognjenosca, marveč tudi nesrečo za hišo in družino. Bog ne daj, da bi na gobi ogenj ugasnil. Končno se je tudi nocoj spravil v svojo posteljo. K vzglavju je varno primaknil ožgano gobo, da bo zjutraj vse pri roki. Treba bo zares zgodaj vstati. Toda nocoj mu ni do spanja. Bog ve, koliko časa je že preteklo, odkar je odmolil svojo večerno molitev in legel k počitku; slišal je razločno, ko so drugi molili rožni venec in se odpravili spat. Vse je bilo že tiho in mirno, le staro uro na steni je bilo slišati — in potem udarce njegovega srca. Ludve je tudi vedel, da mora biti tisti, ki tak sveti ogenj k hiši prinese popolnoma čist in brez greha. Več ko enkrat si je izprašal vest, pa je vedno kaj našel: da je Tončkovemu Tonetu rekel gumpec in mu pokazal jezik, čeprav je malo čuden in svoje vrste; da je svojo mlajšo sestro danes popoldne ves jezen pošteno nabunkal, ker mu je bila skrivila žico pri gobi... Moj Bog, kako grešen je človek, pa se svoje grešnosti zave šele tedaj, ko je prepozno. In potem je molil kesanje zaradi žalitve Toneta in zaradi bunk. Prvi je bil pri cerkvi; ura je bila pet. Kmalu za njim so že začeli kapati ognjenosci; taki, ki jih je poznal, še več pa takih, ki so mu bili tuji. Vsak je imel gobo, kar jih je bilo daleč. Bližnji so prišli kasneje kar z majhnimi posodicami za žerjavico. Mežnar Janez je bil pri farni cerkvi za mežnarja, kar so ljudje pomnili. Bil je strog in natančen bolj kot ura. Prišel je s kresilnim kamnom in gobo. Brez vžigalic bo naredil ogenj, se je čudil Ludve. Živo je prasketal ogenj pred cerkvenimi vrati in mežnar je skrbno pazil, da je vsaka oljčna vejica prišla vanj. Prišli so duhovniki in ministranti, gospod župnik so nato nekaj molili, poškropili in pokadili. Ludve je pograbil napol dogorelo vejico in jo pritaknil k svoji gobi. Hvala Bogu, goba je zatlela in na prostem jo je začel vrteti v velikih kolobarjih in hitro pot pod — noge. Ker je tekel k stari mami, se bo njegova pot zavlekla za celo uro. Goba je tlela imenitno, kar preveč. Začel se je vznemirjati, če bo prehitro dogorela. Kolikor so ga noge nesle, je planil v hišo stare matere in oddal košček gobe. Urno, urno, sedaj domov! Bilo mu je tako hudo, da bi se razjokal — kaj če dogori in razpade sredi poti? Pa je le prisopihal do domačega praga z zadnjim koščkom, ki je ostal na žici. Kako sladka je bila potem domača pogača! Velika nedelja Mislim na veliko nedeljo po tistem velikem petku, ko sem šel z mamo prvič molit k božjemu grobu. V Št. Vidu so se glede vstajenske procesije držali starega izročila, daje treba Boga “vzdigniti” na veliko nedeljo zgodaj zjutraj. Ob prvih sončnih žarkih je župnik ob asistenci obeh kaplanov v dragocenem oblačilu zapel v božjem grobu alelujo. Malega Ludveta ni hotel nihče vzeti seboj v cerkve. Sestre so mu končno obljubile, da ga bodo na veliko nedeljo popoldne vzele k slovesnim litanijam. Pri Mandrskih je bila vsa hiša zelo pevska. Dve starejši sestri sta peli na koru in Nana je posebno lepo pela drugi glas. Posluh in spomin sta imeli obe izredno oster. Zato sta potem pesmi od skušnje kar v glavi prinesli domov in doma ponavljali: ena prvi, druga drugi glas. Mali bratec je bil pevsko tudi zelo nadarjen. Samo poslušal je nekaj česa, nato povzel s sestrama in pomagal Nani. In ta je bila določena, da bo na veliko nedeljo zapela v cerkvi sama: “Raduj se, Kraljica... Gospod je vstal, aleluja.” Fantiček je njeno lepo petje poslušal in se pesmi naučil gladko od prve do zadnje note. Na veliko nedeljo popoldne so šli skupaj k litanijam. Pevki na kor; deček pa s tretjo sestrico na stopnico ob obhajilni mizi. Fantič je bil ravno toliko velik, da mu je glavica malo gledala izza obhajilne mize. Orgle mogočno zadonijo, vso cerkev prevzame praznično občutje največjega praznika. Kmalu se s kora zasliši lepi alt Mandrške Nane: ‘‘Raduj se...” Ludveta obide prečudno doživetje. Otroško srčece drhti v sreči, usta se odpro in iz drobnega grla privre z močnim, čistim glasom: ‘‘Raduj se, Kraljica... Gospod je vstal, aleluja!” Nana na koru, on na stopnici. Poleg njega so se otroci vznemirili, duhovnik pred oltarjem je pogledal nazaj. Ko je spoznal pevčka, se je nasmehnil. “Tiho bodi, tukaj ne smeš peti,” je potegnila Tina bratca za rokav. V Ludvetu se je nekaj podrlo. A pred cerkvijo ga je počakal duhovnik, tisti, ki se je obrnil nazaj. “Tako, Ludve, zdaj boš pa ti sam zapel pred vsemi pevci ono pesem, ki si jo moral v cerkvi prenehati,” prijel za roko in ga odpeljal v kaplanijo. Ob “Gospod je vstal, aleluja,” je dečko prvič v svojem življenju doživel prelep praznik Gospodovega vstajenja. VESELE VELIKONOČNE PRAZNIKE! Velikonočni običaj sekanja pirhov (Maxim Gaspari) P. Atanazij Lovrenčič, OFM: Velika Noč V naravi opažamo boj med mrzlim in toplim vremenom. Pozimi prihajajo mrzli vetrovi in prinašajo sneg in led; a kmalu dnevi postajajo daljši, sonce pošilja vedno več žarkov na zmrznjeno zemljo in jo počasi otaja. Toplota teh žarkov prikliče iz zemlje različne vrste cvetja, ptički se vrnejo in v deželi je prerojenje, novo življenje. Prav v tem pomladnem času nam Cerkev daje največji praznik: Veliko Noč. Na Veliki Petek je vse žalostno, ker Jezus, “ki je bil mogočen v besedi in dejanju”, je umrl na križu in je bil v grob položen. Na Veliki Petek se je zdelo, da je vsega konec, da je vse, kar je Jezus govoril in obljubljal, izgubljeno. Z njegovim grobom se je zdelo vse končano — a to je bil le začetek. Prišla je Velika Noč. Noč je temna, ni sonca, ni veselja, a prav ta noč, ki jo imenujemo Velika Noč je videla čudež Vstajenja; prav v tej noči je bila smrt premagana in Jezus, ki je na Veliki Petek v največjih bolečinah izdihnil svojo dušo, vstal od mrtvih in “Kristus ne umrje več”, nas uči apostol. Ko hodiš pozimi po snegu in ledu, si je skoraj nemogoče predstavljati, da se bo narava prerodila; a vendar bo čez par mesecev ta ista zemlja pokrita s snegom in ledom, bo zazelenela in pognala vse vrste cvetja na površje. To je le nepopolna slika kaj nam prinaša Velika Noč. Ko stojimo od mrtvaškem odru in gledamo mrtvo truplo rajnega, je nemogoče po človeško mišljeno, da bi to truplo zopet zaživelo; a vendar oznanilo Velike Noči je, da kakor je Kristus umrl in zopet vstal, tako bodo tudi vsi, “ki verujejo V Kristusa vstali k večnem življenju”. V tem življenju opazujemo boj med življenjem in smrtjo. V naše veliko veselje Kristus je premagal smrt s svojo smrtjo in nam zopet pridobil večno življenje, ki smo ga zgubili po Adamu. Velika Noč nam prinaša veselje in upanje. Če postane oznanilo Velike Noči temelj našega življenja, potem naša pot ne bo žalostna, tudi če moramo preko lastnega Velikega petka trpljenja, ampak naši koraki bodo veseli in hitri v veselem pričakovanju, da se kmalu srečamo s Kristusom, ki je premagal smrt in pekel. Naj velikonočna Aleluja, ki zveni preko mest in planjav, odmeva tudi v tvojem srcu in ti daje pogum, dokler se ne srečaš s Vstalim Zveličarjem v večnosti. SINOVI ODHAJAJO Matevž Hace Konec Vsa družina sedi okrog kmečke mize: oče, mati, Jože, Zvonko in Peter. Zadnji se odloči, da ostane doma. Najstarejši Jože ne odneha, v dolini zida hišico za ženo in otroka. Gorske velike kmetije ne mara. Oče mu obljubi potrebni les za hišo. Na žagi je navaden delavec, na kmetiji v hribih bi bil gospodar velikega gozda, živine in polja. Sir Zvonko toži, kako je vse v dolini drago, a vrniti se noče, ker je tam več udobja in on hoče imeti motorno kolo. Najmlajši Peter se po razočaranju v dolini odloči, da bo ostal doma. IV Zmračilo se je. Jože in Zvonko sta odhajala počasi v dolino. Nosila sta polne nahrbtnike domače hrane. Gornikov oče je stal pod orehom nad njivo in gledal za njima. Zazdela sta se mu kakor berača, ki odhajata v svet. Solza se mu je utrnila, solza za sinovoma, ki ju je požirala nova žaga in Gornikovemu Jaku tuja dolina. Obrisal si je solzi in si spet nažgal pipo. “Šestdeset let imaš, živel boš še petnajst let, morda dvajset. Nato boš šel kakor tvoj oče. Ko so tvoji predniki prišli sem gor, so kopali korenine, žgali dračje, kleli in molili, se prepirali in tepli, da so naredili iz puste zemlje njive, sadni vrt, travnike uredili gozd, sezidali hišo in postavili kozolec in skedenj. Pa bo morda doba, ko se bo vse to zopet zaraslo z jelkami, smrekami in bukvami. Otožni veter bo pel čez nekdanji Gornikov svet." Oče Jaka je pokleknil pod oreh, dvignil oči k nebu in dolgo molil v mislih za sinove in za Gor-nikovino..... URED.: Ob priliki našega obiska poznane božje poti v Prihovi na Štajerskem, smo tudi imeli priliko govoriti z ljudskim pesnikom IVANOM PAVLIČEM, ST. ki tako-le opeva romantično vino-rodno pokrajino, ki obdaja ljubko cerkvico Matere Božje na hribčku: Prelepa Prihova Prijazen hribček, lep, zelen, s kmetijami ves posajen, na vrhu stara cerkvica, to je prelepa Prihova. Rod čvrst, delaven tu živi, ki gostoljubje ga krasi, in tod veselje je doma, saj to je sončna Prihova. Je sadje tu in njive so, gozdiči jo obrobljajo, prav žlahtno kapljo trs rodi, na lepi sončni Prihovi. Sem ceste daljne vodijo, od tu razgledi krasni so, in moč in zdravje vsak dobi, naj sončna Prihova živi! DOPISI 6af*: V ŠT. 14, EUCLID, OHIO se pomito, vse pometeno. Na javorjevi Ker je februar bolj kratek mizi je pogrnjen bel prt. Na prtu pisan mesec, zato je tudi bolj malo novic. Sedaj ko se vreme boljša jerbas. Otroci stoje okrog mize. Mati pri- in so dnevi daljši, je želja odbora, v mT . - ... . . v „ . da se udeležite seje, ki je prvi naša: Najprej velik kolač. To je spomin torek v meseCu več nas bo Kristusove trnove krone. NatO prinese skupaj, tem več dobrega se lahko r ukrene v korist Zveze in pet pirhov. To so petere bridke rane Kri- podružnice. Dajte nam svoje dobre nasvete. StUSOVe. Za obod jerbasa zatakne tri ko- Iskrene čestitke veljajo Mary _ _ v . v «... ■ Ucman, ki je zopet postala pra- renine hrena. To so strasm žeblji, s ka- staramama. terimi so pribili Zveličarja na križ. In K ®°'"e ^lan'ce ;S0, ^na r J Kastrevec, Mary Grill (Geneva) in nato zadehti pleče ali gnjat. In tudi meso uPam- da se Frances steerer r w J ^ boljše počuti, bo blagoslovljeno, kar pomeni jagnjička. Rosi Mavrich pa se je preselila k hčerki Frances samega Jezusa^ ki je bil za nas zaklan, sožalje izrekamo Mary zgane . .... . . . c . in družini ob izgubi ljubljenega Tako stoji jerbas na mizi. Sama lepota sinaJohn Hegier ki je b i gasilec in skrivnost ga je. za mesto Euclid. Naj v miru ” ° počiva! Vsem članicam, ki praznujejo Franc Šaleški Finžgir svoje rojstne dneve v marcu, želimo vse najboljše in še mnogo zdravih let. Pozdrav vsem članicam SŽZ v Ameriki. Poročevalka MARY JENNIE JAGODNIK —ČVRSTA 90 LETNICA Naši starejši sorojaki so nam vzgled dobrega razpoloženja in prijaznega smehljaja! Mrs. Jennie Jagodnik je taka tipična starejša državljanka, ki je pravkar dosegla častitljivo starost 90 let. Dne 6. februarja je slavila svoj visoki 90 letni rojstni dan. Ona živi pri sinu Tony-ju in sinahi, Ireni, ki je glavna nadzornica SŽZ iz Ohija. Na sliki v angleškem delu je Mrs. Jagodnik ob njenem rojstnem dnevu s krasno cvetlico, katero je prejela od svojih bratrancev iz Avstralije. Prejela je mnogo daril od družine in prijateljev. Njen drugi sin, John živi z družino v Michiganu. Naša slavljenka rada čita vse slovensko časopisje. Zelo rada gre na večerjo v restavracijo, kar je za njo krona dneva. Dolgoletni članici št. 32 v Euclidu, kličemo: Bog Vas živi še mnoga leta! ŠT. 20, JOLIET, ILLINOIS Na zadnji seji je bilo sklenjeno, da tisti, ki imajo plačano članarino do konca marca za vse leto, bo ena oproščena mesečnine za eno leto. Osem naših mladinskih članic je plesalo v Joliet Kiwanis gledališču v nabito polni dvorani. Nastopili so: Beth Busse, Mimmi Gornik, Anita, Annette in Angela Kraus, Annette Mihelich in Heidi Schoener. Slovenska šola sv. Jožefa je prejela posebno ploščo v priznanje za odlično predvajanje slovenskih ljudskih plesov na Med-kulturno razstavo v Washington višji šoli dne 22. febr. Čestitke veljajo njihovi učiteljici ge. Lillian Čepon. Naše globoko sožalje naslednjim sosestram: Mary Duša, ob smrti matere Mary Stariha v Rockdale, Mary Ann Ragin ob smrti brata, Marty Josephine Schlosar praznovala svoj 90 rojstni dan “USPEH” — USPEŠNO DELOVANJE MILWAUKEE, Wis. — V nedeljo, 1. februarja, ob 2. uri popoldne se je zbralo v dvorani Marije Pomočnice kristjanov na West Allisu veliko število prijateljev, predstavnikov in članov raznih društev slovenskih organizacij, da počaste zaslužno slovensko ženo, go. Josephine Schlosar za 90-letnico njenega pestrega, plodonosnega življenja. Bilo je veselo presenečenje, ki ga je pripravila svoji mami hčerka J. Nimmer. Potem, ko so gostje posedli lepo pripravljene mize s slavljenko v svoji sredi, so takoj začeli servirati odlično kosilo. Stoloravnatelj g. Anton Verbick je pozdravil slavljenko in goste ter vodil spored večera. Med petjem in pozdravnimi govori je go. Schlosar počastila tudi slovenska plesna skupina Triglava z lepim narodnim plesom, pod vodstvom gdč. Loni Limoni in koreografijo ge. Bibe Kralj-Bambičeve. Za dobro voljo in veselo družbo je igral znani muzikus g. Frank Sezon in njegov orkester. Za slovensko skupno dobro stvar vedno vneta žena ga. Schlosar je bila s počaščenjem zelo presenečena, bila je zelo vesela. Zaslužnim ljudem čast in priznanje! O njeni življenjski poti ne vemo vsega v podrobnostih. Rodila se je pred 90. leti v Malem Slatniku pri Novem mestu. Že mlada se je odločila, da pojde v Ameriko. Izučila se je za šiviljo in v tem poklicu tudi delala za 10 centov na uro. Ko se je potem poročila, sta v svoji podjetnostni žilici začela z možem lastno trgovino s konfekcijskim blagom na National in 58. cesti na West Allisu. Zelo primerno je omeniti njeno veliko aktivnost v slovenskih društvih in organizacijah. Ustanovila je podružnico Slovenske ženske zveze št. 17 na West Allisu, ki je postala njena častna predsednica. Nad 50 let je članica društva Sloga in skoraj prav tako dolgo pri KSKJ. še vedno rada obiskuje vse slovenske prireditve in, naj omenimo, tudi Misijonske piknike v Triglavskem parku. Zdaj mirno uživa svoj zasluženi pokoj v svoji lepi hiši na Victoria v predmestju Milwaukeeja. Hčerka pa na dobro mamo skrbno pazi in zanjo skrbi. Slavju zelo pomembnega jubileja ge. Josephine Schlosar se pridružujemo tudi mnogi ostali Slovenci iz hvaležnosti za njeno nesebično delo za skupno našo slovensko stvar in iz srca kličemo: ŠE NA MNOGA LETA IN BOG VAS ŽIVI! Frank Rozina Ameriška Domovina Dečman, Georgene Reardon ob smrti tašče, Nancy Buse in Beth ob smrti očeta John Lukanich, Theresa Juricic ob smrti svaka Joseph John Juricic, Helen Plut ob smrti brata Franka Zadel in Frances Higgins in Jennifer ob smrti brata in strica Josepha Jursinovic. Najboljše želje za hitro ozdravljenje želimo članici Frances Kalcic, Helen Heintz in Mary Rozman. Dalj časa je bolan tudi Joseph Erjavec. Hvaležni bomo vsem, ki bodo poravnale svoje letne prispevke v naprej, kakor je storila Anne Brolich iz Ontario, California. Hvaia, Anne, lepo je slišati od Tebe! Ob koncu postne dobe, bomo imele slovesno obhajanje veselih velikonočnih praznikov in božjega Vstajenja. Stare navade se bodo zopet uveljavile. Po blagoslovitvi vode, b'o blagoslovitev jedi, procesija otrok. Pozdrav vsem in na svidenje na seji. Vsem članicam veselo Alelujo, enako našim č. duhovnikom pri župniji sv. Jožefa: Msgr. Butala, župniku Fr. Tadeju Terpin in pomočnikom Fr. Krizolog Cimerman in Fr. Roger Kaffer. Naša prihodnja seja bo na velikonočni torek ob 7 uri zvečer. Imeli bomo tudi govornika. JOSEPHINE ERJAVEC Pozitivno geslo: USPEH pomeni začetne črke organizacije, ki se imenuje: United Slovenians to Preserve Ethnic Heritage in Milwaučani so upravičeno ponosni na delovanje te skupnosti za ohranitev slovenske dediščine, kulture in jezika. USPEH je bil organiziran v namenu, da združi slovenske rojake v skupnem delu za slovensko razstavo v Milvvauškem javnem muzeju. Vse slovenske organizacije so se povezale in kmalu zbrale $3,000, kar je bilo potrebno za zgraditev tipične slovenske hiše, ki stoji kot stalni del evropske vasi v Muzeju. Odkar je bila postavljena slovenska hiša, pred enim letom, je USPEH ustanovil tudi pevski zbor ter večerno šolo za učenje slovenskega jezika. Zbor ima vaje vsaki teden na Wisconsin univerzi pod vodstvom dr. Leo Muskatevec, ki je profesor na tej univerzi. 25 do 30 moških in ženskih glasov, ki tvorijo ta zbor, bo imel svoj prihodnji nastop dne 15. maja na Wisconsin univerzi v Madisonu. Zbor bo tudi nastopil dne 14. novembra na proslavi obletnice USPEH-a z banketom in plesom v Red Carpet EXPO Center. Pevci in pevke so vabljeni, da se pridružijo zboru. Tečaj slovenskega jezika se je pričel 20. januarja in bo trajal 20 tednov, dvakrat tedensko pod vodstvom učiteljice Nancy Reese. Učenci jo zelo pohvalijo, da jih dobro uči znanja slovenskega pogovora. Novi učenci so vabljeni, da pristopijo. Po sedanjem semestru, bodo imeli počitnice črez poletje in bodo pričeli zopet v septembru. Nadaljni uspeh “USPEHA” je prva SLOVENSKA GLASBENA KNJIŽNICA, ki ima zbirko vsakovrstnih slovenskih ljudskih pesmi. Mnogo Zvezinih članic, je pridnih sodelavk USPEHa. Organizaciji velja naš pozdrav in najboljše želje k uspešnemu delovanju za napredek slovenske kulture med nami! Ured. KONFERENCA KRŠČANSKIH ŽENA Slovenske ženske zveze, 18. in 19. julija 1981 Lemont, Illinois °c CL Vse članice, njihove družine in prijatelji vljudno vabljeni na prvo konferenco krščankih žen pod okriljem SŽZ v dnevih 18. in 19. julija, to poletje na prijaznem lemont-skem hribčku. Slovenski frančiškani nas bodo pozdravili v njihovem domu duhovnih vaj. V soboto se bo pričela registracija ob poldne, nakar, bo kosilo v Baragovem domu. Prvi sestanek se bo pričel ob 2 uri popoldne. Premišljevanje bo vodil Zvezin duhovni svetovalec Fr. Atanazij Lovrenčič, OFM. Nato bo prilika za spoved in oddih z večerjo ob šestih. Zvečer bo sv. maša v prelepi slovenski liturgiji pri Marijini votlini s svečkami. Krajevne Zvezine članice bodo okrasile oltar lurske Marije s svežimi cvetlicami. Po maši, kjer se bodo prepevale Marijanske pesmi, bomo udeleženke v procesiji ob molitvi sv. rožnega venca obhodile ljubko “Blejsko” jezerce, nato bodo zaključne litanije pri votlini. Nedeljo zjutraj bo čas počitka in premišljevanja in sv. maša pri Lurski votlini. Prevzvišeni g. dr. Alojzij Amrožič iz Kanade bo maševal in pridigal. Kdorkoli gaje slišal ve, da je torontski pomožni škof odlični govornik, ki vname svoje poslušalce. Škof bo ostal z nami popoldne za drugo konferenco in premišljevanje v Baragovem domu. Med obema konferencama bo prilika za vprašanja in razgovor. Ilinoiske članice pomagajo na razne načine pri pripravah za kar najbolj uspešno konferenco. To bo prvič, da se bodo naše članice in prijatelji v krasnem okolju ameriških Brezij v Lemontu, da se v premišljevanju poglobimo v vprašanjih našega življenja in izpopolnimo v krščanskih načelih. Prvih 120 oseb, ki bodo poslali rezervacije, bodo imeli priliko dobiti stanovanje v Baragovem domu duhovnih vaj, prav po nizki ceni. Cena je vključena v, CENIK A, ki stane $50 za prenočiše, in pet obrokov hrane: (kosilo, večerja v soboto; zajutrek, kosilo in večerja v nedeljo) ter vse pripomoke za konferenco. CENIK B je $40, ki je vse kakor zgoraj razen prenočišča. Tiste, ki želijo prenočiti v motelu, sta dva v bližini, omenjena na 20. strani. V nedeljo se bodo dobili tudi sendviči in okrepčili na pikniških prostorih. Poseben autobus članic in prijateljev Zveze, je že napovedan is minnesotskega Železnega okrožja. In iz daljne Caiifornije, je drž. predsednica, Mary Jasina tudi rezervirala njihovo udeležbo. Prosimo, da izpolnite obrazce za rezerviranje na strani 21 in se sedaj odločite, da se gotovo udeležite. Na veselo svidenje, Vam kliče: t -> t - ..i Pripravljalni odbor Oče, posvečeno bodi tvoje ime Naslovna stran nove knjige škofa Ambrotiča, ki obsega verske govore, katere je škof imel na duhovnih vajah na Koroškem. Knjiga je izšla pri Mohorjevi druibi v Celovcu. CL a °o °Q °q °o °c s o o0 a a 0Q 0. a GREETINGS FROM YOUR YOUTH DIRECTOR First of all I would like to ask all juniors who will be graduating from school and are eligible to please apply for the scholarships being awarded by the Slovenian Women’s Union. You can get more information by contacting your branch president or write to Hermine Dicke 3717 Council Crest, Madison, WI 53717. Adult members please make the juniors aware of this scholarship. After the long cold winter, the month of April heralds the first signs of spring. Spring brings to mind new life and growth. It is with this in mind that 1 am hoping that we can all make an extra effort to bring new life into our organization through a concentrated effort to enroll more juniors. Many times a parent, grandparent, god-parent, aunt or uncle are at a loss on what to give children as a gift since they just seem to have everything nowadays. What more inexpensive, lasting, thoughtful gift could you give than membership in the Slovenian Women’s Union for just $2.40 a year. It is a gift that has many benefits; pride in being accepted into mom’s or grandma’s organization, learning the heritage and culture if their nationality, and an opportunity to compete for the scholarship offered by the Slovenian Women’s Union for graduates. Think about it. If a child is enrolled at birth to age one, they will upon reaching the age of 18 be able to transfer to the adult group and get two years free assessment. They can also transfer before at age 14 if they so choose. A junior who is a member for 10 years in good standing gets one year free adult assessment at age 18. The junior death benefit is $100. I would like to as* each branch to make a real effort to enroll some junior members before the next National Convention in Chisholm, Mn. It is important for everyone of us to work toward this goal. Let’s not leave it up to someone else! ANNA L. HODNIK WAPPY Why all the talk on income taxes? This time of year you are probably hearing your parents talking about filing their income tax. You are probably wondering, what is all this about taxes? A tax is money paid to support the government of a city, state, or nation. Income taxes have to be paid to the government on the amount of money a person earns at his or her job in a year. There have been taxes as long as there have been governments. They have been paid in feathers, honey and salt, in gold, wheat, corn or oats, in wool or cattle or whatever represented the wealth of the people. In today’s times taxes are paid in money. People have to pay property taxes on houses and land, stores and factories. They also pay luxury taxes on things they buy for pleasure such as jewelry. In return for city, state and federal taxes your parents pay, the government keeps up the schools, highways and streets, parks, the fire and police departments, the law courts and the armed forces and many other public services. Submitted by Fran Sietz Be a Zveza Booster EVERY HOME IS A TARGET FOR CRIME THIS SUMMER! We’ll send you four (4) bright yellow and green stickers used by commercial burglar alarm companies. Apply without water (“Self-Stick”) to windows and doors at home, car, store, warehouse, vacation homes, garage. Burglars see this warning sticker on windows and doors and they leave. The psychology behind the sticker deters the burglar. THIS STICKER CAN SAVE YOU MONEY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE!! WARNING PROTECTED BY ELECTRONIC ALARM SYSTEM * THIS STICKER CAN SAVE YOU MONEY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE! ORDER NOW!! Send $3.00 check or money order for each sel of stickers to: ALARM STICKERS Dept. Zarja 1863 Timothy Dr. West Mifflin, PA 15122 ajKRTERIjOaSE 3RR • Restaurant & Lounge • Banquet Rooms • Business Meeting Rooms • Ballroom • Sauna • Game Rooms 24800 Euclid Ave. Euclid, Ohio 150 Rooms & Suites • Enclosed Swimming Poo! withTerrace Bar • Whirlpools • Exercise Room Barber Shop 261 0300 I ( “FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART” ) All in a Day’s Work Hi Boys and Girls, I work in the branch office of an insurance company. Throughout the course of a day some strange and sometime funny mishaps happen as I’m sure they do in just about any office. This month I’d like to share some of these incidents with you. Our main source of communication between our branch office and our Home Office is through the mail. Every night the mail gets sorted by departments. Each department has it’s own plastic, zip-lock bag, which will be put in a blue cloth mailing bag. Well, one night we discovered that we had run out of blue mailing bags, so we were going to use instead a regular large paper envelope. Trouble was the plastic envelopes didn’t fit in the paper one. Well, we all figured the mail had to be sorted in our Home Office’s mailing room anyway, so we decided not to use the plastic envelopes. Two days fkter we got a call from the Home Office wanting to know what the heck we were doing. It turned out that for some reason our mail wasn’t op-pened and sorted in our Home Office, the whole envelope was delivered to the Vice-President of the Company. ******* One clerk in our office devised her own motto as to how to take care of the work that was put in her work basket. Her motto was: “When in doubt mail it out.” One day she put stamps on six white envelopes. I mean to say six white empty envelopes, (The kind that have windows on them) and mailed them out. They were returned to us from the Post Office stamped “Addressee Unknown’’. DAVY’S COLUMN Our office has a pop machine. Well, one day my supervisor told me to call the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company and order some more pop. Well, in dialing the number my finger got in the wrong hole and messed up the area code. Instead of reaching Aurora, IL, I got Queens, N.Y. Naturally, as soon as the other party answered my call I discovered it was a wrong number, but I didn’t discover how much a wrong number until the phone bill came! I hope you enjoyed some of these incidents, as I enjoyed sharing them with you. ’Til next month DAVY QJLAJt Anna L. Hodnik: Learn Slovenian! Everyday words and expressions: what — kaj who — kdo where — kje why — zakaj or — ali also — tudi no — ne yes — da and — in, pa on — na I — jaz we — mi this — to is — je my — moj mine — moje our — naš ours — naše am — sem here — tukaj there — tam how — kako What is this? — Kaj je to? Who is this? — Kdo je to? This is my mother — To je moja mati My name is — Moje ime je Here is my home — Tukaj je moja hiša What is here? — Kaj je tukaj? 1 am also Slovenian — Jaz sem tudi Slovenka (Slovenec) April showers us all with happenings In this month of April we observe the holy days of Easter but many other things have happened and take place this month. On April 4th, for example, in 1833 the first free public library was established in this country. Do you have your library card yet? If you don’t you’ll want to go to the library nearest your home and ask the librarian how you can get a card so you can borrow books. Do you have a pet and you don’t know when it was born? April 10 is “Pets Birthday Party” day. the date the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was established in 1866. Do you have a nickel? The man pictured on the front of it is Thomas Jefferson who, as you probably know, was a president of the United States and writer of the Declaration of Independence. He was born April 13 in 1743. Have you ever looked up a word in a dictionary? One of the best known dictionaries is the Webster’s and the first major Webster’s dictionary was published April 14 in 1828, 153 years ago. In school you probably have read about Paul Revere and his famous ride to warn the people of Massachusetts that British troops were coming — the start of the War of Independence. Revere made that ride April 18 in 1775. There are many other events we observe in April — April Fool’s Day, the birthdate of Washington Irving who write “Rip Van Winkle,” Arbor Day when we plant trees and should think about how important they are to us, the birthdate of William Shakespeare, a poet and playwright you will be reading when you reach junior high school, and World Health Day, the date the World Health Organization was established to build a world of healthier people. And if you look up the word April in that Webster’s dictionary you will find that it is a month that means the season of spring. Submitted by Fran Sietz ASKEZ JOHN A. X-81 P.O.BOX 232 NEW YCRK, N.Y. 10032 U N B Union National Bank & Trust Co. 50 West Jefferson, Joliet, Illinois 60431 Three locations to serve you. GEREND HABERMAN Funeral Home SHEBOYGAN, Wl 53081 “FOOTSTEPS THROUGH TIME” By Irene M. Odorizzi A book about the time Slovenian immigrants came to America. Send $6.00 (75c postage) to: S.W.U. Home Office, 431 N. Chicago, SI., Joliet, III. 60432 ZEFRAN FUNERAL HOME 1941-43 WEST CERMAK ROAD LOUIS J. ZEFRAN ELIZABETH L. ZEFRAN LOUIS R. ZEFRAN MARILYN E. ZEFRAN Funeral Directors and Embalmers CHICAGO, IL 60608 Virginia 7-6688 SLOVENIAN COSTUME PATTERN Adjustable size: jumper, blouse and apron. Send $2.50, (postage included) 10 S.W.U. Home Office, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, II. 60432 A. GRDIMA & SONS ZA POHIŠTVO IN ZA POGREBE Za vesele in žalostne dneve Nad 70 let že obratujemo naše podjetje v zdovoljnost naših ljudi. To je dokaz da je podjetje iz — naroda za narod. V vsakem ''lučaju se obrnile do našega podjetja, prihranili si boste denar in dobili stoprocentno postrežbo Podružnica: 15301-07 Waterloo Rd. Tel. KEnmore 1-1235 Cleveland, Ohio 44110 Pogrebni zavod: 1053 E. 62nd Street Tel. HEnderson 1-2088 Cleveland, Ohio 44103 17002-10 Lake Shore Blvd. Tel. KEnmore 1-6300 Cleveland, Ohio 44119 ZELE FUNERAL HOMES, INC. TWO COMPLETE FUNERAL HOMES 452 East 152nd St. 6502 St. Clair Ave. Office 481-3118 Cleveland, Ohio 361-0583 Ermenc Funeral Home 5325 W. (.reenlield Ave. Phone: 327-4500 Milwaukee, Wisconsin NEW ENLARGED & REVISED EDITION! Slovenian-International Cookbook Woman jr Glory — The Kitchen To order, send $6.00 (includes postage) per copy to: SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S UNION 431 N CHICAGO ST. JOLIET. IL 60432 TEZAK FUNERAL HOME JOLIET, ILL. ‘First in service since 1908’ 459 North Ottawa Street Phone 772-0534