YEAR CVI USPS: 448-080ISSUE 26 ISSN: 1080-0263WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2013

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The next two PROSVETA issue dates are Jan. 8 and Jan. 22. All material must be received by Friday, Dec. 27, for the Jan. 8 issue, and by Monday, Jan. 13, for the Jan. 22 issue. If you are concerned about making the deadline, send an e-mail to prosveta@snpj.com or submit your material via the publications area of our website, www.snpj.org.

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In This Issue

Up-and-Coming Calendar of Events ......... 2Slovenska Stran ........................................ 4SNPJ Fraternal Honorees ......................... 5SNPJ Recommender Coupon ................... 6PROSVETA Crossword Puzzle ................. 7SNPJ Fraternal Sympathies ...................... 8

IMPERIAL, Pa. — Take advantage of SNPJ’s Recommender Program which offers members a benefit for encouraging family, friends and acquaintances to join SNPJ. The recommender will receive $10 for each valid referral. Turn to page 6 for the Recommender coupon or pay a visit to the SNPJ website, www.snpj.org, to complete an online Recommender form and get a head start on your reward.

Have you recommendeda new member lately?

IMPERIAL, Pa. — The SNPJ Home Office will be closed Dec. 24 through Dec. 26 in observance of the Christmas holiday. The office will be open during normal business hours Dec. 27, 30 and 31.

The Home Office will also be closed Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014, in celebration of the New Year. Normal office hours, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., will resume Thursday, Jan. 2. We wish all SNPJ members and friends the very best this holiday season.

Home Office schedule for the year-end holidays

Merry Christmas!to all SNPJ members and friends from the staff at the SNPJ Home Off ice

by KAREN A. PINTARSNPJ National Secretary

IMPERIAL, Pa. — SNPJ Lodge 259, Mead-owlands, Pa., merged into SNPJ Lodge 138, Strabane, Pa., on Dec. 1, 2013. We thank the former officers of Lodge 259 who served for many years for all their hard work and dedica-tion. We would also like to thank Lodge 138 for

accepting these members in the true fraternal spirit of SNPJ.

Lodge 259 made several generous donations prior to the merger, including a $50 donation to the Miss SNPJ Pageant Fund, a $250 memorial brick donation to the SNPJ Slovenian Heritage Center and a $232.87 donation to the SNPJ Scholarship Fund.

Merger unites two W. Pa. Lodges

SYGAN, Pa. — The Slovene Federation of SNPJ Lodges of Western Pennsylvania will hold its next meeting Sunday, Jan. 12, 2014, at SNPJ Lodge 6 in Sygan. The meeting will be held downstairs beginning at 2 p.m. All Federation Lodges are urged to send a representative. Plans for a skat-ing party and miniature golf tournament for Youth Circle members, as well as a June polka dance at the SNPJ Recreation Center, will be discussed.

DON PROGAR (138)Federation President

Western Pa. Federation sets Jan. 12 meeting date

submitted by JURČEK ŽMAUCConsul General, Republic of Slovenia

CLEVELAND — On Nov. 14, the Slovenian American Business Asso-ciation (SABA) held a conference in Cleveland titled “Slovenia: Business Opportunities for U.S. Companies.” The goal of the conference was to promote business relations between American and Slovenian companies. With over 60 companies represented across Slovenia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan and New York, it was the very first Slovenian business conference organized in Ohio.

At the beginning of the conference, Gorazd Rencelj, Economic Coun-Among those in attendance at the November SABA business conference were [from left] SABA President Joze Kokal, Consul General Dr. Jurček Žmauc, Cleveland City Councilmen MichaelPolensek and Joe Cimperman, and Ray Marvar of Tucker Ellis, LLP.

U.S.-Slovenian business relations promoted at November conference

SEE BUSINESS CONFERENCEON PAGE 6

Photos submitted by Bro. Mike Dziak (257).

A Holiday Cheer from Lodge 257 Cleveland Lodge 257 held their Christmas party Dec. 7, at which members and friends enjoyed a wonderful event and delicious food. Among those in attendance were third-, fourth- and fifth-generation SNPJ members [below, from left] CAROlE BERGINE EMERY, EIlEEN EMERY DzIAk, SARAh DzIAk, PhIl EMERY and MARIE PIVIk [seated].

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by PAULINE BARBISHLodge 53 President

CLEVELAND — As has been said many times in the past, “Where did the year go?” Time seems to pick up speed as we progress in age.

I must apologize because I have been remiss in writing news articles for V Boj Lodge 53. Here is a brief summarization of recent happenings:

Since our annual Lodge picnic in June, we hosted an extra picnic at the SNPJ Farm on July 9. It pains me to say that the day trip to Washington, Pa., which was planned for Aug. 13, was canceled due to lack of interest. The last-minute reservations didn’t help since we needed early commitments.

During our August meeting, a motion was made and passed to donate money to the SNPJ Recreation Center playground. In September, a few Lodge 53 members went to the Slovene Home for the Aged to assist the residents as they played bingo, and then

An end to a busy year for Lodge 53

SEE lODGE 53 YEAR ENDON PAGE 8

• James E. GreenBorn Aug. 16, 2013

Strabane, Pa., Lodge 138Lodge 138 welcomes its newest member, James Eli Green. James is the son of James and Katie (138) Green, and the grandson of Frank and Amy Mavrich (138) and James and Terry Green. We welcome James to the Slovene National Benefit Society and extend our best wishes to his entire family.

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Office hours are Monday -Thursday, 8 a.m.to 5 p.m.; Fridays 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Executive Committee:NatioNal PresideNtJoseph C. Evanish

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NatioNal treasurerRobert J. Lawrence

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Road, Sewickley, PA 15143Robert Lawrence, SecretaryJoseph C. EvanishKenneth Anderson – 2400 Derby Road,

Birmingham, MI 48009Richard Hervol – 183 Wylie Ave., Strabane, PA 15363

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Lane, Fontana, CA 92335 e-mail: pwoodhcs@aol.comVincent Baselj – 1001 Grandview Ave.,

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Crossing Rd., Greensburg, PA 15601James L. Curl, Region 2 – 503 Orchard

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Way, Painesville, OH 44077Tracey Anderson, Region 5 – 1014

Edgewood Dr., Royal Oak, MI 48067Justina Rigler, Region 6 – 1116 Berkley

Lane, Lemont, IL 60439John Zibert, Region 7 – 284 N. 200

St., Arma, KS 66712Fred Mlakar, Region 8 – 13592

Onkayha Cir., Irvine, CA 92620

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Enon Valley, PA 16120(724) 336-5180 • fax (724) 336-6716

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PROSVETAENLIGHTENMENT

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Have something for Up-and-Coming?

Up-and-Coming...A look at events planned by the Slovene National Benefit Society• DEC. 31 .....Imperial, Pa., Lodge 106 New Year’s

Eve party in the Lodge 106 clubroom; 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Entertainment by Renewed Memories II. Advance tickets only. For more information contact Becky Sabo at (724) 695-1411.

2014• JAN. 5 ........Sygan, Pa., Lodge 6 hosts Karl

Lukitsch annual Hangover Dance in the Sunshine Room. Doors open at 1 p.m. with music from 2-6 p.m.

• JAN. 13 ......Cleveland Lodge 576 holiday social at Waterloo Hall; 6 p.m. Dinner will be catered. Members are asked to bring a dessert and, if you’d like to participate in the exchange, a wrapped $10 gift. RSVP by phoning Lou Novak at (440) 461-6476.

• JAN. 18 ......Verbick Fraternal Memorial Bowl-ing Tournament at Riviera Lanes, West Allis, Wis.; noon. The cost is $85 per five-person team. Entry forms and fees must be submitted no later than Jan. 10. For additional information contact Mary Donovan at (414) 817-0192 or marydonovan@aol.com.

• JAN. 26 ......Sygan, Pa., Lodge 6 hosts The Polka Quads and Mikey Dee in the Sunshine Room. Doors open at 1 p.m. with music from 2-8 p.m.

• FEB. 22 ......Orange County, Calif., Lodge 786 hosts the Slowind Quintet at St. Timothy Church, Laguna Niguel, Calif.; 7:30 p.m. For details phone Jean Koci at (949) 495-0097 or e-mail ajkoci@cox.net.

• FEB. 22 ......CAL Sweetheart Doubles bowling at Wickliffe Lanes, Wickliffe, Ohio. The cost is $20 for adults, $15 for children 17 and under. For additional information phone Rick Gorjup at (440) 354-5001.

• JUNE 15-20 ...... Youth Roundup at the SNPJ Recreation Center, Borough of SNPJ, Pa. Contact Fraternal Director Kevin Richards at 1-800-843-7675 ext. 144, or e-mail krichards@snpj.com for registra-tion forms and additional information.

• JUNE 20-22 ...... SNPJ Young Adult Conference at the SNPJ Recreation Center, Borough of SNPJ, Pa. For more information con-tact Fraternal Director Kevin Richards at 1-800-843-7675 ext. 144, or e-mail krichards@snpj.com.

• JUNE 22 ........... Orange County, Calif., Lodge 786 wine tasting picnic at Wiens Family Cellars, Temecula, Calif.; noon-5 p.m. Music by the Fontana Button Box Club and others. Advance tickets only. For more information contact Jean Koci at (949) 495-0097 or ajkoci@cox.net.

• JULY 11-13 ........ The 33rd Slovenefest and the 58th Miss SNPJ Pageant at the SNPJ Recreation Center. For details phone the Recreation Center at 1-877-767-5732.

• JULY 18-20 ....... SNPJ TEL Workshop at the SNPJ Recreation Center, Borough of SNPJ, Pa. Contact Fraternal Director Kevin Richards at 1-800-843-7675 ext. 144, or e-mail krichards@snpj.com for registration forms.

• JULY 20-26 ....... First Family Week at the SNPJ Recreation Center, Borough of SNPJ, Pa. For additional information phone the SNPJ Recreation Center toll-free at 1-877-767-5732.

• JULY 27-AUG. 2 .....Second Family Week at the SNPJ Recreation Center, Borough of SNPJ, Pa. For additional information phone the SNPJ Recreation Center at 1-877-767-5732.

by COURTNEY KOENIGLodge 138

STRABANE, Pa. — It seems like only yesterday we were enjoying all the activities summer has to offer. And now, another year has come and gone. I hope everyone has a joyous holiday and I wish you all the best in the coming year.

I’d like to take this opportunity to reach out to the members of SNPJ Lodge 138 and Youth Circle 19. At the December regular Lodge meeting, we held the election of the 2014 Lodge officers. I was nominated and elected as Circle 19 director. I am humbly honored to pick up were Sis. Karen Brum-baugh left off. She did an outstanding job for the

past six years. Thank you, Karen, for all you have done for the Circle during your tenure. I know I have big shoes to fill and hope that I can make the Lodge and Circle members proud.

As the saying goes, “SNPJ, It’s about life!” This rings true and close to my heart. The SNPJ has been part of my life since I was born. My gram, a lifelong SNPJ member, lived about four houses up the road from Lodge 138. When my sister and I were born, she bought our policies and our parents got us involved with the Circle. We participated in all the events through the years, including holiday parties, weekend bowling, field trips and bowling tournaments. My sister and I benefitted in college

from the SNPJ Scholarship Fund, and we are both former Miss SNPJs. I served as a camp counselor at Youth Roundup and the TEL Workshop for many years. Some of the best moments in my life came from being so involved with the Circle as a child and with the Lodge as a young adult.

I look forward to this new endeavor this coming year. I have created a Facebook page for Circle 19, where I will post upcoming events, pictures and other important information. You can find this page by searching “SNPJ Youth Circle 19” on Facebook. Be sure to “Like” our page to keep up-to-date with the latest news and events. I hope to see you at a Circle or fraternal event soon!

The new year brings a new director for Youth Circle 19

by KAREN A. PINTARLodge 6 President

IMPERIAL, Pa. — SNPJ Lodge 6 held its election for Lodge officers and the SASC Board of Direc-tors at the annual meeting held Dec. 10. Elected as Lodge officers were President Karen Pintar, Vice President Vince “Babe” Baselj, Secretary/Treasurer Jim Curl, Recording Secretary Ruth Wright and Sergeant-at-Arms Frank Wright. Auditors are Den

Brand and Ken Pintar, and the Youth Circle direc-tor is David Wasky. Elected to the SASC Board of Directors were De James, Den Brand, Lisa Brand, Ruth Wright, Frank Wright, Babe Baselj, Karen Pintar, Ken Pintar, Bob Wasky and John Baselj.

We voted to hold nine meetings per year. They will continue to be held on the second Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in January, March, April, May, June, August, September, November and December.

We also made a couple of our annual donations. To the SNPJ Scholarship Fund we donated $300 as well as the proceeds from our Turkey Dance, making our total donation $672. We also donated to the Slovene Radio Hour Program.

Our election for delegates to the 2014 Quadren-nial Convention will be held during our April 2014 meeting on April 8.

Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year!

Lodge 6 sets upcoming meeting dates for 2014

by NANCY NOVAKLodge 576 Recording Secretary

CLEVELAND — We hope every-one is feeling merry and bright this time of the year!

Spartans Lodge 576 members and guests kicked off the holiday season early with a casino bus trip Nov. 23. There were some winners and some losers, but it was a great trip all around. We even got to celebrate June Slapnik’s birthday! Grand River Winery was a nice stop on the way home, even though we had a bit of a blizzard to contend with. Thanks again to all who joined us and to everyone who contributed

baked goodies, snacks and espe-cially those jello shots!

The Spartans will enjoy a holi-day social at our next meeting on Monday, Jan. 13, 2014. The meet-ing will begin at 6 p.m. at Waterloo Hall. Please let Lou Novak know if you plan on attending by calling (440) 461-6476. The dinner will be catered so we need an accurate head count. We would appreciate guests bringing something tasty to add to the dessert table. Also, if you’d like to be in the gift exchange, bring a wrapped $10 present.

We hope to see more of you in the new year. Vesele božične praznike!

During the Spartans casino bus trip, JuNE SLAPNIK [left] celebrated her birthday with kEN klEINhENz, ANGIE ZABJEK and PAt NEVAR.

Spartans kick off holiday fun with November bus trip

Warm Summertime MemoriesSunday, Aug. 11, was a beautiful summer day to spend outdoors for a picnic. Many members of Delavec Lodge 8 met at the grounds of the Slovenian Catholic Center in Lemont, Ill., to dance to Slovenian music and enjoy delicious food such as klobase, hot dogs, lamb, chicken, potica and baked goods. The games organized for the children were fun for all of the youngsters in attendance.

Photo submitted by Sis. Dolores Novotny (8).

Santa Stops By MilwaukeeBadger Lodge 584 hosted a Christmas party for all youth members in the Milwaukee area Dec. 7. The children enjoyed making crafts, a sing-along, snacks and a visit from Santa. In attendance were MICHAEL JOHN SAkAlOWSkI, MAx MlAkER, HEIdI JORGENSEN, MADAlAINE BROWN, ABBIE kASSECkERt, NAtAlIE kASSECkERt, AShlEY PEtROVICk, tYlER MOUthEY, BRIAhNA lYNCh, ANDREW lYNCh, EMIlY MlAkER, JOSHuA MLAKER, ROBERt PEtROVICh and tAtIANA EBBINGER.

Photo submitted by Sis. Mary Donovan (584).

Lodge 576 members JOE NOVAK and PAttY CANDElA entertained guests with their button boxes during their stop at Grand River Winery.

from thesource

3PROSVETADecember 25, 2013

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Important figures to consider...29%... people who would purchase morelife insurance if they were asked

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Proud of your SNPJ membership? Then you owe it to yourself to delve deeper into SNPJ history through the pages of An Inspired Journey — The SNPJ Story: The First One Hundred Years of the Slovene National Benefit Society.

This richly-illustrated chronicle of SNPJ history compiled and written by SNPJ Publications Editor Jay Sedmak is now available for purchase.

$15.00 each — plus $2.50 s/hadd $1 shipping for each additional copy ordered

Ex-Yugoslav propertynow in Slovenia’s handsROME (STA) — In early December, Slovenia took ownership of the former Yugoslav diplomatic residence in Rome which was assigned to Slovenia as part of succession in 2006, the Slovenian Foreign Ministry reported. The residence was to be handed over by Serbia before Aug. 31, 2011, but the transition was de-layed due to transfer of the surrounding land. The dispute was resolved after the nations’ foreign ministers signed a letter of intent to solve the issue on Oct. 2.

The residence was taken over by a special commission headed by Slovenian Foreign Ministry Secretary General Tomaž Kunstelj which, together with a Serbian commission, defined the final border between the land of the residence and another building which remains in Serbia’s possession. The agreement divides the land in such a manner that allows the functionality and indepen-dence of each building, both of which are situated in a park in one of the most elite locations in Rome.

As former Slovenian diplomat Miran Mejak explained, the value of the land was not explicitly set down when the embassies were divided among succes-sors because it would take too long to appraise. “We said it was logical that the land comes along with the buildings,” Mejak said, noting that the issue of land ownership was only a problem in Rome, where “the land there is very valuable.”

The Rome residence was the last of the 45 diplomatic and consular build-ings owned by ex-Yugoslavia in OECD countries that were assigned to Slovenia in 2006. As part of the transfer of proper-ties, Slovenia has already come into pos-session of the embassy in Washington, D.C., a consulate in Milan, Italy, and a consulate in Klagenfurt, Austria, which it has been using since independence.

Rudi Gabrovec, Slovenia’s high rep-resentative for succession, explained that to date, the successors to the former Yugoslavia have agreed on the distribu-tion of some 80 diplomatic and consular properties, and still have some 50 to distribute. Taking into account an agreed 16 percent share, Slovenia should receive five to seven more buildings.

Several settlements nowstand empty in SloveniaLJuBLJANA (STA) — According to data released by the Slovenian Statistics Office, as many as 61 settlements in Slovenia had no residents as of July 1, 2013, the day when the country had a total of 2,059,114 residents registered in 6,032 settlements.

Four villages lost all of their inhabit-ants in the first six months of the year: Kranjče in the Cerknica municipality, Zanigrad in the coastal municipality of Koper, and Srednji Potok and Suhor in the Kostel municipality.

On the other hand, the village of Br-log in Sodražica gained one inhabitant, which made it a settlement with regis-tered residents again; at the beginning of the year it was uninhabited.

All in all, the number of residents dropped in 2,323 settlements and rose in 2,334, of which Koper gained the most of new residents, a total of 202. The number of residents decreased the most in Ljubljana, by 309.

Slovenia marks its 20th year on the InternetLJuBLJANA (STA) — Twenty years ago, in November 1993, the Jožef Stefan Institute (IJS) set up an Internet server with the first Slovenian web pages and a web presentation of Slovenia which, along with Japan, was even recognized as the best country presentation a year later.

The first Slovenian web pages were created by Mark Martinec and his team at the Jožef Stefan Institute’s National Supercomputer Center on the CONVEX C3860 computer, according to a press release from the Academic and Research Network of Slovenia (ARNES).

Slovenia’s first website was fol-lowed by the pages of universities and academic and research institutions, but Slovenian companies, media and the national administration soon joined in. “Slovenia thus proved to be a dynamic and technologically advanced country,” the ARNES press release reads.

In cooperation with the government information office, the server was trans-formed on March 1, 1996, into the first Slovenian web directory and remained the most popular Slovenian website for years.

Marking the 20th anniversary of Slo-venia’s Internet presence, the Jožef Stefan Institute set up a memorial website, which will be gradually upgraded and will describe the first years of Slovenia on the Internet.

Slovenia has plans to purchase Trubar bookMuNICH (STA) — Slovenia’s Culture Minister, Uros Grilc, paid a visit to Mem-mingen, Germany, in early December to view the recently-discovered copy of Primoz Trubar’s book “Church Order.” Grilc handed the Memmingen mayor a letter of intent for Slovenia to purchase the book, which is considered priceless in terms of Slovenia’s cultural heritage.

Dated 1564, this copy of one of the landmark works of the main figure of Slovenian Protestantism would fill the void in the series of early Protestant heritage in the hands of the National and University Library (NUK). “The ministry will strive to exhibit the copy in Slovenia next year to mark the book’s 450th anniversary,” the Culture Ministry wrote in a press release.

“Church Order” (Cerkovne ordninge), was published by Trubar, a Slovenian Protestant minister and reformer, in Ger-many and contains his vision of a legal, organizational and spiritual framework for the Protestant Church in Slovenia. It is also valued for its language qual-ity – Trubar is considered the father of the Slovenian language – since it was meant, above all, for the period’s intel-lectual elite.

The book was banned as part of Coun-ter-Reformation supported by Charles II, and Trubar was exiled. The only copy believed to have survived – another was destroyed or lost in Dresden, Germany, during World War II – was discovered in the Vatican library in 1971, but it is said to be in worse condition than the newly-found book. The existence of the third copy was revealed in October after it was discovered, quite by coincidence, by a researcher.

IT literacy growing among Slovenia’s seniorsLJuBLJANA (STA) — The number of seniors in Slovenia using the Internet increased seven fold in the past five years, while the number of those who browse the web on a daily basis has tripled in the same period, according to statistics.

A quarter of Slovenians between the ages of 65 and 74 use personal comput-ers, the Statistics Office reports. The majority among these seniors also have access to the Internet.

As many as 15 percent of seniors use a computer and the Internet on a daily basis, as opposed to five years ago when only four percent used a computer almost every day and only two percent used the Internet. Most seniors access the Internet from home, while only four percent use mobile devices outside their homes for Internet access.

Compared to five years ago, the num-ber of seniors who have used a computer at least once rose by 12 points, while the number of those who have already used the internet increased by 23 points.

Nearly one in five seniors (18 percent) use the Internet for checking news; 16 percent of seniors also use e-mail ser-vices and searched for health-related information. Roughly six percent of seniors are active on social networks, while four percent shop online.

Avsenik Ansambel honored with monumentLESCE (STA) — The legendary Avse-nik Ansambel, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, has been honored by the local community with a monument erected near their home village of Begunje.

The monument, which symbolizes an accordion and an umbrella and was unveiled in late November, is placed so that it offers a view of Slovenia’s high-est peak, Triglav, as well as the Golica and Roblek mountain, which are often mentioned in Avsenik songs. The sculp-ture is erected in a circle in Lesce that serves as a gateway for tourists traveling to some of Slovenia’s best-known tourist

destinations: Lake Bled and Lake Bo-hinj, the Julian Alps and the Karavanke mountains.

With the sculpture, the community wanted to express its gratitude to the Avsenik Brothers Ansambel for pro-moting their hometown as well as the entire country. Slavko Avsenik, who started what has since become a music dynasty with his brother Vilko, was touched, say ing that “one cannot wish for anything more.”

Slavko and Vilko Avsenik, who were born in 1929 and 1930, respectively, in the village of Begunje na Gorenjskem in the northwest of Slovenia, established the Avsenik Ansambel in 1953. Through 1988, the brothers recorded more than a thousand songs, and their band per-formed before millions at thousands of concerts and sold over 30 million recordings.

The most popular of the Avseniks’ songs is a polka titled “Na Golici,” which is, by some accounts, the world’s most frequently performed instrumental song. Just last year the Slovenian Ethno graphic Museum classified the Avseniks’ music as part of Slovenia’s “intangible cultural heritage.”

Lights shine brightly for the holiday seasonLJuBLJANA (STA) — Ljubljana and several other Slovenian towns and cities were in a festive mood in early December as the Christmas lights were switched on.

Ljubljana came aglow with 40 miles of Christmas lights to the thrill of a large crowd that gathered for the occasion in Prešeren Square in the heart of the capital. A new feature in Ljubljana this year is the decoration of Trubarjeva St. with umbrella-shaped lamps.

Running until Jan. 1, the Christmas season in Ljubljana features a number of events catered to a variety of visitors, including the St. Nicholas and Father Christmas parades.

The Ljubljana municipality ear-marked more than $156,000 to fund the festive events, and another $229,000 for deco rations.

Enormous wreath may set a new world recordMARIBOR (STA) — The members of a Maribor-area tourist association have made a giant holiday wreath with a diam eter measuring 100 meters (over 328 feet). Should the wreath be listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, it will beat the previous record holder by about 15 meters (49 feet).

The wreath, which weighs 13.5 tons and measures 316 meters (1,036.75 feet) in circumference, is set on a meadow in the village of Volicina, just outside the city of Maribor.

The enormous Christmas decoration is made of spruce, cypress and grapevine, the director of the tourist association, Jožef Vogrin, told the press. Vogrin also explained that about 40 association mem-bers, along with family and friends, had worked on the wreath for two months.

The Guinness world record for the biggest holiday wreath, at 76.6 meters (251.3 feet) in diameter, is owned by the town of Belmont, Canada, and was constructed in May 2008.

A Slovenian wins amulti-million EurojackpotGROSuPLJE (STA) — A Slovenian from the town of Grosuplje recently won the jackpot of the transnational Eurojackpot lottery. The jackpot was worth EUR 21 million (nearly $29 mil-lion), which is the largest lottery prize in Slovenian history, lottery operator Loterija Slovenije announced on Dec. 8.

The winner will keep $24.8 million, and the remainder of the total, some $4.2 million, is expected to go to the Grosuplje municipality, where the ticket was purchased. Grosuplje Mayor Peter Verlič has already announced that the money will be used for an expansion of the town’s health care center.

The prize, the seventh largest in the two-year history of Eurojackpot, which is played in 14 countries, is by far the biggest in Slovenian history. The former record winning was slightly less than EUR 5 million ($6.9 million), paid out by Loterija Slovenije in January 2012.

The articles comprising this feature have been reprinted with permission from the Slovenian Press Agency (STA).

there are plenty of signs that the holiday season is here: stores are having sales, Christmas music is playing everywhere, trees are decorated and houses

are lit up. But my sure-fire way of knowing that the holidays are upon us is when I start crying at every other commercial. Yes, I said commercial. After tearing up for the fourth time the other day (twice at the same commercial), I started to take a closer look at what was getting to me. What I saw was families, cute babies, fluffy puppies and sleigh rides in the snow. Who doesn’t cry at that stuff?

Advertisers are targeting the heart because they know everyone’s heart is extra tender this time of the year. Our thoughts are all about family and friends, past and present. We’re busy creating special moments with our families, and at the same time the season brings forth happy memo-ries of loved ones who are no longer with us. It can be a bittersweet season for many, and as commercials take one more tug on the heartstrings, the tears start to flow. Advertisers play on your already softened heart because they figure that at this time of the year, family is foremost in your thoughts.

SNPJ realizes that for most people, family is not only front and center during the holidays, but all year ’round. Everything we do is for our family, with our family and because of our family. We have our very own cute babies, fluffy puppies and nostalgic memories, and we know that taking care of our families should be our number one prior-ity. When we think of taking care of our families, we think food on the table, braces on the teeth, piano lessons and getting a good education. We usually don’t associate tak-ing care of our loved ones with purchasing life insurance.

For just several hundred dollars a year, we can purchase coverage on ourselves so that our loved ones will receive the financial help they will surely need if we were to sud-denly pass away. For just $500 per year, a 40-year-old man can protect his family with a Whole Life policy for $35,000 or with a 30-Year Term policy for $120,000.

Enjoy the holidays with your family, cry at those touch-ing commercials and buy the kids everything they ask for. But remember to get some life insurance so that those kids can continue having a merry Christmas even if you’re not here.• Thought for the Week — When you

look at your life, the greatest happi-nesses are family happinesses.

Joyce Brothers

Signs of the holiday season

4 PROSVETA25. Decembra 2013 www.snpj.org • prosveta@snpj.com

SlovenskaStran

Ureja Vida Kosir

HEADLINE: MangoTOPIC: Jure had been holding

tightly to the shopping cart handle, which his mother slowly pushed in front of her. She looked at the shelves and was surprised at all they contained, but she could only afford the most necessary items such as milk, bread, rice, pasta, barley and apricot jam for Jure, who liked to put it on a slice of bread. When her husband and her mother recover from their illnesses, they will be able to afford a lot more, but for now they have to be patient. She was aware of the upcoming Christmas holidays. Many children will receive everything they wish for, but she can’t give Jure much.

She looked around and saw that no one else had as empty a shopping cart as she had. Many shoppers had full carts and probably bought things that they didn’t even need.

When they walked through the produce department, Jure stopped. He recognized a particular fruit. He stretched out his arm and said: “Mother, look, a mango! I remem-ber the name because one time I ate it at my cousin Nick’s. For me, this is the best fruit!” She also saw

the fruit. “Jure, I will buy you a mango when I have more money. I promise!”

At the same time, a young well-dressed mother with a son, probably Jure’s age, bought two mangos. Both mothers looked at each other, and then Jure’s mother pulled him away.

As they were leaving the store they were pleasantly surprised at the door when the boy whose mother bought two mangos for him stepped closer to Jure and gave him one: “Take this; it’s for you! I wish you a merry Christmas.”

Jure was so surprised. He squeezed the mango and said to the boy, “ Thank you so very much. I also wish you a merry Christmas. Then the boy ran to his mother who has been waiting for him at the car. Then the eyes of the two mothers met again, and Jure’s mother said, “M’am, thank you so much for your kindness.” And then they went their separate ways.

Jure se je trdno držal za ročaj nakupovalnega vozička, ki ga je njegova mama počasi potiskala pred seboj. Razgledovala se je po policah in se čudila, koliko stvari je na njih. Marsikatero bi potrebovala, a je vzela

le najnujnejše: mleko in kruh, teste-nine, riž, ješprenj in pšenični zdrob, nazadnje pa še marelično marmelado, ki si jo je Jure tako rad mazal po kruhu. Zase bi je ne vzela, toda za Jureta naj bo, saj mu kakšnega drugega priboljška ne more privoščiti. Ko bo mož spet zdrav in ko njena mati ne bo več potrebovala skrbne nege - takrat jim bo šlo na bolje, zdaj pa morajo potrpeti. Najbolj se ji je smilil sin, ki je bil sicer še majhen, vendar je že marsikaj razumel. Zavedala se je bližajočih se božičnih praznikov. Mnogo otroci bodo imeli vse, kar si bodo poželeli, njemu pa ne more nič dati. Ob tej misli jo je zabolelo srce, toda trudila se je, da ne bi pokazala svoje stiske in žalosti.

Ozrla se je po velikem prostoru trgovine in opazila, da nihče nima tako praznega vozička kot ona. Mnogo je celo takih, ki v svoji nakupovalni strasti v svoje do vrha polne vozičke tlačijo še razne reči, ki jih vidijo na policah, pa jih morda sploh ne potrebujejo...

Ko sta se z Juretom pomikala mimo polic s sadjem in zelenjavo, je Jure obstal. Videl je polno košaro debelih rdeče rumenkasto zelenih sadežev. Stegnil je svojo roko proti

njim in vzkliknil: “Mama, glej mango! Zapomnil sem si, kako se mu reče, ker sem že enkrat jedel pri bratrancu Niku. To je zame najboljši sadež!” Tudi ona se je zazrla v tiste sadeže. “Jure, kupila ti bom mango, ko bom imela več denarja. Obljubim!”

Prav tedaj je urejena mlada gospa, ob kateri je stopal sinko približno Ju-retovih let, segla po debelem mangu, ga dala v vrečko in položila na tehnico. Mami, ki sta stali druga ob drugi, sta se spogledali. Ujele so se oči dveh žena, povsem različnih po socialnem položaju, toda oči obeh so bile oči mater, ki ljubijo svoje otroke, in ker ljubijo svoje otroke, imajo srce tudi za druge otroke. Juretova mama je povlekla svojega sinka proč od sadja. Ta je stopal za njo, ves prevzet od tistega vabljivega sadeža, ki si ga je tako zelo želel, a ga ni mogel dobiti. Ni si mogel kaj, da se ne bi ozrl nazaj proti polici s sadjem. Videl je, da je tista lepa gospa nekaj dopovedovala svojemu sinku, ki je veselo prikima-val, potem pa je vzel s police še en debel mango.

“Ta deček bo danes dobil dva slastna manga,” je rekel Jure mami “Res je lahko vesel.” V njegovih besedah ni bilo zavisti, iskreno je

privošil drugemu tisto, česar sam ne more imeti.

Mama je z Juretom odšla na drugi konec trgovine, kjer sta izbrala še milo in pralni prašek, nato pa z na pol praznima vrečkama zapustila trgo-vino. Zunaj se je že pričelo mračiti. Bilo je oblačno in kazalo je, da bo kmalu deževalo.

Pred vrati sta doživela presenečenje: deček, za katerega je mama kupila dva manga, je stopil k Juretu in enega ponudil Juretu: “Vzemi, ta je zate! Želim ti lep božič!”

Jure je od presenečanja samo debelo gledal, potem pa podarjeni sadež stisnil k sebi. Prijaznemu dečku je rekel: “Najlepša ti hvala. Tudi jaz ti voščim lep božič.” Deček je samo prijazni pokimal in pohitel k mami, ki ga je čakala malo proč. Tedaj sta se obe mami spet srečali z očmi in Juretova mama je rekla: “Gospa, najleše se vam zahvaljujem za vašo dobroto. Vam in sinku in vsem vašim iz srca voščim srečen božič.” Prijazna gospa se je nasmehnila, prijela sinka za roko in odšla sta proti avtomobilu. Mama in Jure sta se spogledala: do-brota neznane žene je v njunih očeh prižgala iskrice sreče.

OGNJIŠČE

HEADLINE: Tina Maze’s helmet worth 7,000 euros ($9,450)

TOPIC: An autographed helmet of the best Alpine skier of the past season, Tina Maze, recently sold for $9,450 at a charitable event. This is a record amount. To date, the auction had collected the most money for a Lionel Messi signed uniform, which reached a price of $4,000.

The starting price was $4,000 for the helmet with which the best Slovenian

skier became the winner of the 2012-2013 World Cup. The Slovenian ski champion decided that the proceeds from the auction would benefit an institute to help children with cancer.

Podpisano čelado najboljše alpske smučarske minule zime Tine Maze so na dobrodelni dražbi v okviru Sporto konfer-ence in v sodelovanju s splet-nim portalom MMC prodali za 7000 evrov. Ta znesek je rekorden, doslej so na dražbi največ zbrali s podpisanim

dresom Lionela Messija, ki je dosegel ceno 3000 evrov.

Za čelado, s katero je najboljša slovenska smučarka postala zmagovalka svetovne-ga pokala v sezoni 2012/13, je bila izklicna cena 1500 evrov, izkupiček dražbe pa je prinesel štirikratno vsoto. Slovenska smučarska šampionka se je odločila, da bo izkupiček dražbe podarila Ustanovi za pomoč otrokom z rakom.

Na dobrodelnih dražbah pod okriljem Sporta so v preteklih letih uspešno pro-

dali tudi podpisani nogometni čevelj brazilskega nogometaša Ronaldinha, teniško opremo Rogerja Federerja, podpisano žogo prvakov severnoameriške košarkarske lige NBA Los An-geles Lakers ter nazadnje tudi hokejsko palico slovenskega zmagovalca Stanleyjevega po-kala Anžeta Kopitarja, s katero je Hrušičan ekipi Los Angeles Kings v sezoni 2011/2012 po-magal do sploh prvega naslova prvakov severnoameriškega hokejskega prvenstva.

DElO

Čelada Tine Maze vredna 7000 evrov

HEADLINE: Andrej Mrak received a medal for bravery

TOPIC: Slovenian police superintendent Stanislav Veniger recently presented awards to members of the police and rescue services for their achievements. Among the recipients of the awards was Andrej Mrak from Id-rija, who received a medal for bravery.

In June, volunteer fire-fighter Andrej Mrak saved two lives in a traffic accident. While returning from a fam-ily vacation, he encountered the scene of a car accident in Lucija near Portorož. He noticed an overturned burning van, ran to it, broke the windshield with his por-table fire extinguisher, and rescued two Italian citizens from certain death. He risked his own life; the van was soon completely engulfed in flames. “I would do the same thing again,” Mrak said after he received his medal. He also received a monetary award.

Pred dnevi je generalni direktor policije Stanislav

Andrej Mrak prejel medaljo za hrabrost

Veniger podelil priznanja pri-padnikom policije in reševalnih služb za izjemne dosežke. Med prejemniki tega visokega priznanja je bil tudi Idrijčan Andrej Mrak, ki je prejel medaljo za hrabrost.

Kot poročajo Idrijske nov-ice, je prostovoljni gasilec Andrej Mrak junija v prometni nesreči rešil dve življenji. Ko se je vračal z dopusta, je z družino naletel na prizorišče prometne nesreče v Luciji pri Portorožu. Opazil je prevrnjen goreč kombi, stekel do njega in s svojim prenosnim gasilnim aparatom razbil vetrobransko steklo ter pred gotovo smrtjo rešil dva italijanska državljana. Pri tem je tvegal tudi lastno življenje, saj je kombi le malo pozneje zgorel v ognjenih zu-bljih. "Še enkrat bi storil enako. Prepričan sem, da bi tudi kdo drug storil enako, le da se še ni znašel v takem položaju,« je po prejemu medalje povedal Andrej Mrak. Ob medalji pa bo na svoj žiro račun prejel tudi denarno nagrado v višini dvakratne povprečne plače v Sloveniji.

IdRIJSKE NOVICE

HEADLINE: This year wild and fir honey are standing out

TOPIC: The Sežana Apiculture Association recently announced the results of this year’s 14th international honey judging, Sežana 2013. Beekeep-ers from seven countries brought 187 honey samples to this well known competition.

Because of the wet spring, the judges received fewer samples of flower, linden, acacia and chestnut honey. “On the other hand, there has been plenty of wild and fir honey, which we kind of missed in the last few years,” said board president Malči Božnar.

V organizaciji Čebelarskega društva Sežana so pred dnevi razglasili rezultate letošnjega 14. mednarodnega ocenjevanje medu Sežana 2013. Čebelarji iz sedmih držav so letos na uveljavljeni natečaj

prijavili kar 187 vzorcev medov.Na letošnji izbor se je prijavilo 108

domačih čebelarjev in teh iz Hrvaške, Italije, Bosne, Makedonije, Avstrije in Češke. Ob vremensko muhavi pomladi, preostanek letošnjega leta je bil čebelam bolj naklonjen, je devetčlanska komisija dobila v ocenjevanje nekoliko manj vzorcev cvetličnega medu in medu lipe, akacije, hoje in kostanja kot prejšnja leta. “Po drugi strani pa je letos precej gozd-nega in hojevega medu, zlasti slednjega smo pogrešali zadnja leta,” je povprečen letnik ocenila predsednica komisije Malči Božnar.

Ker je cilj ocenjevanja najti najboljše sortne mede, Slovenci pa imamo ob nara-vnih danostih možnost pridelati sortno čiste mede, kar ni mogoče v vsaki drugi državi, to po njenem velja ohranjati in izboljševati. “Ker se med od medu raz-

likuje po okusu, barvi, vonju, sestavi in učinkovanju, lahko vsakdo najde takega, ki je po njegovem okusu in potrebah,” je še izpostavila nujo po preseganju ideje, da je med enak medu.

Med 187 vzorci so med Primorci dosegli najvišje uvrstitve Izidor Šuligoj iz Grgarja, katerega čebele so mu prinesle naziv šampiona za lipov med ter Branko Planišček iz Nebla, ki se je okitil s šampionom za akacijev med in tretjo nagrado v absolutni kategoriji.

Na prvi dve mesti sta prišla čebelarja iz Ljubljane, Milan Ovca je za gozdni med dobil drugo nagrado, prvo mesto in šampiona za gozdni med pa je domov odnesel Trajče Nikoloski. Prvi trije so se uvrstili tudi na državno tekmovanje, kjer bodo rezultate razglasili proti koncu decembra.

PRIMORSkE NOVICE

Letos izstopata gozdni in hojev med

Adria poleti na londonski GatwickHEADLINE: Adria flights

to London’s GatwickTOPIC: Slovenian tourist

workers attended the world’s most important tourism fair, the World Travel Market, which is intended only for tourism professionals. Slo-venian tourist representa-tives spoke about Slovenian tourism with representatives of the British and global me-dias. Next year, in September 2014, Ljubljana will host ABTA, the annual meeting of the largest association of British tourist agencies.

Slovenia was again de-scribed as a green, active and healthy country. There was a lot of interest in the new flights connecting Great Britain and Slovenia: from May to September, Adria Airway will fly three times a week between Ljubljana and Manchester, and London’s Gatwick Airport.

Letos se je Slovenija na najpomembnejši svetovni turistični borzi - World Travel

Marketu, ki je namenjen le strokovni javnosti - v čast dvatisočletnici Emone, pred-hodnice Ljubljane, kjer bo septembra 2014 letno srečanje največjega združenja britan-skih turističnih agencij ABTA, odela rimljansko podobo. Ko je znameniti Big Ben oznanil poldne, so slovenski turistični delavci o slovenskem turizmu spregovorili s predstavniki okoli petdesetih britanskih in globalnih medijev.

Slovenije se je tudi tokrat predstavila kot zelena, aktivna in zdrava dežela. Veliko zani-manja je bilo za napovedane nove letalske povezave med Veliko Britanijo in Slovenijo: od maja do septembra bo Adria Airways dvakrat na teden letela med Ljubljano in Manchestrom ter londonskim Gatwickom. Karmen Novarlič, vodja Sektorja za turizem v Spiritu, ocenjuje, da ima rast števila obiskovalcev iz Velike Britanije zelo pozitiven vpliv na slovenski turizem.

DElO

HEADLINE: Boštjan More in the American af-ternoon

TOPIC: At the electro-technical-computer profes-sional school in Ljubljana on Vegava St., the Enterprise Educational Center arranged an activity titled “American Afternoon on Vegava.” The united States, their school system, opportunities for study and employment, American culture, social structure, and the business

culture were introduced to students, professors and other invited guests.

Boštjan More, a repre-sentative from the Kolektor Group, also attended the event. He talked about his life and work in America, where he spent three years as a director of Kolektor’s American subsidiary Com-trade uSA. He introduced the differences between Slovenian and American management.

Boštjan More na ameriškem popoldnevuMedpodjetniški izobra-

ževalni center je v Ljubljani na Vegovi, elektrotehniško-računalniški strokovni šoli in gimnaziji pripravil dogodek, ki so ga poimenovali Ameriško popoldne na Vegovi. Dijakom, profesorjem in ostalim pova-bljenim so predstavili Združene države Amerike, njihov šolski sistem, možnosti študija in za-poslovanja, ameriško kulturo, socialni ustroj in poslovno kulturo.

Na dogodku je kot pred-

stavnik skupine Kolektor sodeloval tudi mag. Boštjan More, direktor Ascoma, ki je spregovoril o svojem življenju in delu v ZDA, kjer je bil tri leta direktor Kolektorjevega ameriškega podjetja Comtrade USA. Predstavil je razlike med slovenskim in ameriškim poslovanjem, svojo pripoved pa obogatil s fotografijami iz svojega osebnega arhiva, ki so nastale med njegovim bivanjem v ZDA.

IdRIJSKE NOVICE

HEADLINE: Nova is a new tourist boat in Izola

TOPIC: Izola welcomed a new tourist boat to carry passengers. The boat was purchased by fisherman Robert Radalovič from Izola with the help of Eu funding.

The 59-foot long and 16-foot wide boat, named “Nova,” can carry 93 passen-gers at one time. The boat was built in an Italian shipyard and it is valued at $800,000.

Besides the fishing indus-try, fishermen Robert and Sandi Radolovič have been involved with tourism. In the summer months their fishing boat “Zlatoperka” is transformed into a passenger boat with which they trans-port tourists to the so-called “fish picnics.”

Izola je bogatejša za novo turistično ladjo za prevoz pot-nikov, ki jo je s pomočjo ev-ropskega denarja kupil izolski ribičRobert Radolovič. Nova je že šesto plovilo, ki dokazuje, da so naši ribiči in školjkarji več kot uspešni pri črpanju evropskega denarja.

18 metrov dolgo in pet me-trov široko plovilo z imenom Nova, ki lahko na svoj krov sprejme kar 93 potnikov, je zdaj privezano ob ribiškem pomolu, kmalu pa naj bi stalni privez dobilo (najverjetneje) ob Sončnem nabrežju. Ladjo so izdelali v eni od italijanskih ladjedelnic, njena vrednost pa znaša 620.000 evrov (brez DDV). Kar 85 odstotkov vred-nosti plovila sofinancirata Ev-ropski ribiški sklad (tri četrtine) in Slovenija. Izolska ribiča

Nova je nova turistična ladja v IzoliRobert in Sandi Radolovič sta se že doslej poleg ribištva ukvarjala tudi s turizmom. V poletnih mesecih sta svojo ribiško barko Zlatoperka pre-delala in jo namenila za prevoz turistov in za tako imenovane fish piknike. In prav preus-meritev ribičev v dejavnosti, ki so na takšen ali drugačen način povezane z ribištvom, je eden od ciljev evropske ribiške politike. Radolovič je uspešno kandidiral na razpisu Obalne akcijske skupine (AOS) Ribič,

ki je prek razpisa ministrstva za kmetijstvo in okolje dobila pravico do koriščenja 2,8 mili-jona evrov evropskega denarja za t. i. diverzifikacijo ribičev. S pomočjo AOS sta novi de-lovni plovili, ki sta trenutno privezani ob carinskem pomolu v Izoli, kupila tudi školjkarja Mitja Petrič in Edi Germšek. Plovili bosta namenjeni pred-vsem za reševanje v primeru nesreče in ukrepanje ob izlitju nevarnih snovi na morju.

PRIMORSkE NOVICE

Mango

Vsem cenjenim bralkam in bralcem želim vesele božične praznike ter

srečno in uspešno novo leto 2014!Urednica

PROSVETADecember 25, 2013www.snpj.org • prosveta@snpj.com 5

S N P J F r a t e r n a l

Members celebrating 50, 60, 70 and 80 years with the Slovene National Benefit Societyby JOSEPH C. EVANISHSNPJ National President

We of the SNPJ belong to an organization that has a very ex traordinary and diverse member ship. Our members range in age from newborn to 100-plus years. They

come from many different parts of the United States, have a wide variety of ideas and have many different backgrounds. But they all have something in common – their loyalty and love of SNPJ.

It is through our older members, the backbone of our Society, that our younger members have learned and will continue to learn the meaning of fra ternalism. They have guided our Society through the good times and the trying times with one common goal... unity and harmony within the SNPJ.

Every year, more and more of these respected SNPJ elders reach the 50-, 60-, 70- and astronomical 80-year milestone of membership in the Slovene National Benefit Society. It is our privilege to honor some of this elite group of elders.

In acknowledging our elder members, we show our respect for these honorees by offering our thanks and appreciation for the loy alty they have shown the Soci-

ety for so many years. In a small way we can etch their names into the archives of the SNPJ even more through PROSVETA.

Upon reaching the 50-year mile stone, the Executive Committee forwards a certificate of recognition. Sixty-year members receive a diamond-studded gold pin; 70-year mem bers receive an embroidered fleece blanket and 80-year members receive an SNPJ custom blanket.

We ask our elite elders, once they have received their awards from the Society, to submit a short report on their past and present life style which includes Lodge affilia tion, hobbies and other informa tion which might be of interest to PROSVETA readers.

We welcome letters from all of our fraternal honorees. Sometimes, over the years, a member transfers to another Lodge out of state. This short report enables us to pass along addresses so that longtime ac quaintances can keep in touch or renew old friendships which have gone astray.

Our congratulations to all who have reached these honored mile stones. It is said that our future is in the young, but without our elite elders the traditions and heritage of the SNPJ would not be able to grow and our young would not learn the true meaning of unity, harmony and fraternalism.

Sis. DOROthY BRUCECONTINUES NEXT COLUMN

Sis. ANN MACkCONTINUES NEXT COLUMN

Sis. VIRGINIA DAVIDCONTINUES NEXT COLUMN

Bro. ARNOlD kOCICONTINUES NEXT COLUMN

Sis. ANN MACkFROM PREVIOUS COLUMN

Sis. DOROthY BRUCEFROM PREVIOUS COLUMN

Bro. ARNOlD kOCIFROM PREVIOUS COLUMN

Sis. VIRGINIA DAVIDFROM PREVIOUS COLUMN

Sis. ALICE BARBER (721)

Sis. KATHLEEN MARIAN (584) Sis. VIRGINIA DAVID (643)

Bro. ARNOLD KOCI (786)

• Strabane, Pa., Lodge 138 and the Slovene National Benefit Society honored Sis. MARthA ANtOl for attaining 70 years of membership. Sis. Antol writes:

“I love the blanket, and I’ll be sure to share it with my family. Thank you.

“My family attended a lot of events at various SNPJ Halls. My husband Paul outlived his SNPJ life insurance policy and my father, Anthony Lesnik, worked for the SNPJ and was on several com-mittees.”

Sis. MARTHA ANTOL (138)538 Ash St.

Canonsburg, PA 15317

• Sis. MIlDRED kAtICh, a member of Borough of SNPJ, Pa., Lodge 770, was honored by the Slovene National Benefit Society for her 70 years of SNPJ member-ship. Sis. Katich writes:

“Just a note to thank you for the warm and cozy blanket. I will enjoy using it.”

Sis. MILdREd KATICH (770)137 Mohawk School Road

New Castle, PA 16102

• In honor of her 50 years of SNPJ membership, Sis. JudITH WOtOWIEC was recognized by Euclid, Ohio, Lodge 566 and the Slovene National Benefit Society. Sis. Wotowiec writes:

“The SNPJ has been familiar to my family for many years. My parents, Tony and Margaret Kaus, were very active members of Lodge 566. They enrolled all of their children in the Society as well as all of their grandchildren. I have many memories of Youth Circle 2, our sewing circle, the Slovenian chorus and concerts at Slovenian Home in Cleveland. I enjoy keeping up with PROSVETA and Lodge activities.

“Thank you for the gifts recog-nizing my 50-year membership. SNPJ still holds a warm spot in my heart and in my memories from both sides of my family.”

Sis. JudITH WOTOWIEC (566)6556 Willow Lake dr.

North Royalton, OH 44133

• The Slovene National Benefit Society recently recognized Sis. DOROthY BRUCE, a member of Strabane, Pa., Lodge 138, for her 60 years of membership. Sis. Bruce writes:

“I would like to thank you for the beautiful pin in recognition of my 60 years of membership.

“My parents were John and Josephine Cushman. I have three children, nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. I’m cur-rently retired, and enjoy polka dancing on occasion and visiting some of my family that live in other states.

“I still attend different functions at the Evanstown Picnic Grove and SNPJ Recreation Center. It’s nice to see my Lodge doing a great job of providing entertainment, hosting numerous dinners and

encouraging our young members to continue promoting the organi-zation and our heritage.”

Sis. dOROTHY BRuCE (138)254 Castle Road

Washington, PA 15301

• Aliquippa, Pa., Lodge 721 and the SNPJ honored Sis. AlICE BARBER for attaining 70 years of membership.

Alice (Lampich) Barber cel-ebrated her 88th birthday Nov. 19. She is the daughter of longtime SNPJ members Joseph Lampich and Frances Cimperman Lam-pich.

Sis. Barber lived in Aliquippa for many years, and currently resides in Bradfordwoods, Pa., with her daughter and son-in-law, Char-lynne and Dr. Richard Schollaert. Her son and daughter-in-law, Jeff Barber and Sharon Hodgson, live in Silver Spring, Md. Alice enjoys playing with her poodle Lulu and reading PROSVETA.

Sis. ALICE BARBER (721)69 Seldom Seen Road

Bradfordwoods, PA 15015

• Sis. kAthlEEN MARIAN, a member of Milwaukee Lodge 584, was honored by the Slovene National Benefit Society for her 50 years of SNPJ membership. Sis. Marian writes:

“I recently received my 50-year gifts recognizing my member-ship in the SNPJ. I remember when my mother, Ann Kerzic Rompella, received recognition in the same manner. I have always seen my membership as a gift from my grandparents, Anton and Mariana Kerzic, and my uncle, Anton Kerzic Jr. Their dedication and service to our Society were always an integral part of my childhood and early-adult life. My children remember ‘playing in the hallways’ of the Slovene Hall in Waukegan, Ill.

“ I am currently a retired educator living in a condo near the shores of Lake Michigan in Racine, Wis. I have a beautiful daughter, Amanda, who works as a corporate travel agent. My son Adam is a community organizer and is married to Annie. They have a lovely daughter, Kate, who is the love of my life.

“Life is good, and I am pleased to be remembered with this rec-ognition. It reminds me of a very special time in my life with family, and the foods and sounds of the Lodge. Thank you for reminding me.”

Sis. KATHLEEN MARIAN (584)39 Stonewood Ct.Racine, WI 53402

• In honor of her 70 years of SNPJ membership, Sis. ANN MACk was recognized by Fairport Harbor, Ohio, Lodge 355 and the Society. Sis. Mack writes:

“I was born in Pennsylvania on

Sis. ANN MACK (355)

Sis. FRANCES SOBEK (729)

June 2, 1925. I moved to Paines-ville, Ohio, after my mother passed away in 1943. Two years later, in 1945, I moved to Cleveland and met my husband Ralph.

“I enjoy baking, gardening and sewing. I make memory bears for Hospice of Robinson Memorial Hospital in Ravenna, Ohio, and I’m also teaching a 9-year-old girl how to sew. I spend time at the local senior center twice a week, exer-cising and playing chair volleyball.

“Thank you so much for the lovely blanket — nice and cozy.”

Sis. ANN MACK (355)P.O. Box 2182

Streetsboro, OH 44241

• The Slovene National Benefit Society recently recognized Sis. FRANCES SOBEk, a member of Yukon, Pa., Lodge 729, for her 70 years of membership.

Sis. Frances Annette Sobek was born Aug. 26, 1925, in the small village of Gillespie near Fayette City, Pa. Her mother, Mary Prunk Skrlj Ambrozich, and her father, Joseph Frank Ambrozich, were Slovenian emigrants from Yugoslavia. Her siblings included two brothers, Matthew and Jo-seph, and two sisters, Mary Jane and Rose Marie. A third sister, Amelia, passed away in infancy.

Frances attended Gillespie Grade School and Marion High School where she graduated in 1943. She furthered her education at the Douglas Business College in Charleroi, Pa., and obtained her first job at Pittsburgh Steel’s Allen-port plant where she worked as a messenger before being promoted to secretary to the accountant.

On June 28, 1950, Sis. Sobek married Thaddeus Henry Sobek and they were blessed with two children. As a homemaker, Fran-ces also worked as a clerk for the United Dairy Farms Store in Belle Vernon. Her husband is now deceased and Frances makes her home with daughter Mary Jane in Belle Vernon. Her son Ted, daughter-in-law Deana and granddaughter Alexa live nearby in Perryopolis. Cooking and baking are her favorite hobbies.

Each holiday Sis. Sobek proud-ly continues the Slovenian tradition of baking delicious potica and parka bread. She enjoys listen-ing to the Slovenian, Croatian and Polish radio programs on the weekends, and she never misses a Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins or Pirates game! In addition to her Lodge 729 membership, Frances is a member of St. Sebastian Church in Belle Vernon. She re-cently celebrated her 88th birthday with her family and two loyal cats, Socks and Miss Kitty.

Sis. FRANCES SOBEK (729)926 Lynn Ave.

Belle Vernon, PA 15012

• Girard, Ohio, Lodge 643 and the SNPJ honored Sis. VIRGINIA DAVID for attaining 70 years of

membership. Sis. David writes:“I was so surprised when the

mailman rang my doorbell and gave me a package from the SNPJ Home Office. When I saw the beautiful embroidered blanket with the SNPJ logo and read the attached letter, I was surprised to be receiving this wonderful gift in honor of my 70 years of fraternal dedication; it seems like yesterday I received gifts as a 60-year mem-ber. Thank you for remembering me. The blanket will be used a lot this winter.

“My parents were active mem-bers in the Lodge. My dad received his 50-year pin when I was a little girl and I treasure it to this day. I remember going to dances at the Slovene Dom in Girard, especially the Grape Festival. There were so many picnics that I attended as well, and I enjoyed them very much.

“I worked at the Ohio Leather Co. after graduation and got mar-ried in 1947 to my special husband, Emil. We have been married 66 years. We were blessed with four children, eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, all healthy and lovely. They are so special to us.

“I would like to give thanks to the late Mrs. Ann Zagger for bringing us back as active members, and to Mrs. Ann Rowan, who was my youth director. I will always re-member them both. My husband and I enjoy reading PROSVETA. It was so nice to be remembered. Thank you.”

Sis. VIRGINIA dAVId (643)152 Pittsburg Ave.Girard, OH 44420

• Bro. ARNOlD kOCI, a member of Orange County, Calif., Lodge 786, was honored by the Slovene National Benefit Society for his 50 years of SNPJ membership. Bro. Koci writes:

“I was born Sept. 14, 1931, in Hebron, Neb. My parents moved to a farm in 1934 during the De-pression, and the family continued farming over the next 20 plus years until a tornado hit the area

in the 1950s.“I lived on the farm until I joined

the Navy at the age of 20. All of my brothers had been in the Navy, and it seemed like the right thing to do. I spent four years as an enlisted man and when I was discharged, I stayed in California. The farm was gone and there was no work in Nebraska.

“On July 14, 1956, I married Jean Cukale and we had four children. Jean was an active SNPJ member in Southern California, where we lived and worked, so I joined the former Lodge 615 and we enrolled all of our children. We have continued our interest in SNPJ and other Slovenian activities through the years. Our children, their spouses and all of our grandchildren are now mem-bers of Orange Coast Lodge 786. The Lodge was formed in 1999 by a small group in and around the Orange County area who shared an interest in the Society.

“I would like to express my great appreciation of the SNPJ for all the benefits, friends and social aspects I have enjoyed since becoming a member. Thank you for the 50-year pin, wallet and $10 check in honor of my 50th membership anniversary. I have enjoyed every moment of being a member and, for many years, an officer of my Lodge. I hope to celebrate my 60th anniversary down the road.”

Bro. ARNOLd KOCI (786)29476 Vista Plaza dr.

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

celebratingyour SNPJanniversary?

If you would like to share your 50-, 60-, 70-, or 80-year biography with PROSVETA, be sure to address your material to National President Joseph C. Evanish at 247 West Allegheny Rd., Imperial, PA 15126

6 PROSVETADecember 25, 2013 www.snpj.org • prosveta@snpj.com

• Receive $10 for each valid referral submitted.

• Every valid referral earns the recommender one chance in the Quarterly Drawing for an opportunity to win $100.

• Every valid referral also earns the recommender one chance in the Year-end Drawing for an

opportunity to win $500 cash.

By submitting one valid referral,you have the opportunity to earn

a total of $610 in cash prizes!

Recommender Benefits

The SNPJ Recommender Program pro-vides an opportunity for adult members to encourage family, friends, children and acquaintances to join the Slovene National Benefit Society and take advantage of SNPJ’s competitive products and numer-ous fraternal benefits. Not only will you be helping a friend and strengthening our Society, you’ll also be receiving benefits yourself.

I would like to introduce_________________________________________

for SNPJ membership

Please contact: __________________________________________ (Parent or guardian if under age 18)

Address: _______________________________________________

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Indicate Preferred Agent ___________________________________ (Optional)

My Name: ______________________________________________

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e-mail __________________________________________________

Each individual must be informed that an agent will contact him/her and the referralmust have some interest in SNPJ in order for the recommender to be considered valid.

Complete this coupon and return toSlovene National Benefit Society

Att’n: Marketing department247 West Allegheny Road • Imperial, PA 15126

SNPJ Recommender Program

The cookbook sponsored by the SNPJ Heritage Center is now on sale! For additional information, contact the SNPJ Recreation Center toll-free at 1-877-767-5732.

$20 eachplus $3 s/h for first 2 copies

For 3 or more books,add $1 shipping for each copy.

Name _________________________________________Address _______________________________________City/State/Zip ___________________________________Phone __________________ Number of copies _______

Return this order form to:SNPJ Heritage Center • 270 Martin Road • Enon Valley, PA 16120

Cookbook forthe Ages

Make check or money order payable to SNPJ Heritage Center.

Official ProceedingsMinutes of the Executive Committee MeetingAug. 13, 2013

The meeting was called to order at 3 p.m. by President Evanish with Sis. Pintar and Bro. Lawrence in attendance.The minutes from the June 18, 2013, meeting were read and approved.President Evanish reported that he attended the Cleveland Federation picnic and the Youth Circle 2 reunion picnic, as well as the Slovenian National Day reception.Discussed the Single Premium product including rates, dividends, cash values and face amounts.Discussed the plans for conversion of the computer system set for Aug. 30, 2013.Reviewed some information regarding the painting of the water tower at the SNPJ Recreation Center.Discussed Fraternal Weekend events for Aug. 16-17, 2013.Approved attendance of SNPJ Miss Activity at the Chicago Federation event as Miss SNPJ was unable to attend.Approved a cultural donation to SNPJ Lodge 449 for a Region 6 event in the amount of $200.Approved payment to Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, PC, in the amount of $1,906 for legal services.Approved payment of $250 for registration at the Michigan Fraternal Alliance annual meeting for Bro. Ken Anderson and Sis. Dorothy Anderson.Approved payment of $520 for three registrations and several donations for the Ohio Fraternal Alliance annual meeting.

Cash Withdrawals:June 19 - There were two Matured Endowments and two Adult Cash Withdrawals, none of which were conversions. Cash value, $13,753.78; insurance, $12,890.June 26 - There were four Adult Cash Withdrawals, none of which were conversions. Cash value, $3,105.92; insurance, $16,000.July 10 - There were two Matured Endowments, one Outlived Policy and 16 Adult Cash Withdrawals, none of which were conversions. Cash value, $16,164.34; insurance, $53,290.July 17 - There was one Matured Endowment and seven Adult Cash Withdrawals, one of which was a conversion. Cash value, $6,527.91; insurance, $20,334.July 23 - There were four Adult Cash Withdrawals, none of which were conversions. Cash value, $3,060.23; insurance, $7,550.July 24 - There was one Adult Cash Withdrawal, which was not a conversion. Cash value, $15,024.83; insurance, $50,000.July 31 - There were nine Adult Cash Withdrawals, none of which were conversions. Cash value, $9,761.37; insurance, $48,890.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:15 p.m.

JOSEPH C. EVANISHNational President

KAREN A. PINTARNational Secretary

ANNOUNCE IT

A very busy fall for Lodge 776 young adultBOROuGH OF SNPJ, Pa. — Lodge 776 young adult member Charley Troggio of New Middle-town, Ohio, has been very busy over the last few months.

Charley spent Oct. 25 through Nov. 8 in Cambodia as a non-dental volunteer on a hu-manitarian trip. She did fluoride treatments on school-aged children. A few days after returning, the Springfield Local senior signed a letter of intent on Nov. 15 to continue her academic and athletic careers at West Liberty University in West Liberty, W.Va. West Liberty is a NCAA Division II program that competes in the Mountain East Conference. She plans to receive a business degree in tourism and hos-pitality management.

Charley serves as secretary of the Springfield Local National Honor Society and carries a 4.0 grade point aver-age. She is a four-year varsity catcher for the Lady Tigers and is in her seventh year of travel ball. In January, Charley will be a catcher on one of the U.S. teams competing for the Softball World Cup in the Netherlands.

Lodge 776 member ChARlEY tROGGIO signed a letter of intent to continue her education and launch her collegiate athletic career at West Liberty University in West Virginia.

SNPJ Scholarship Fund donationsfor the months of October and November 2013SNPJ Lodge 764, Milwaukee ............... $9,086.03

Federation of California Lodges ................... $640

2013 Senior Week participants ..................... $118

Ruth Roberts (190), Birmingham, Mich. ........$100

SNPJ Lodge 304, San Francisco ................... $50 In memory of Cecelia Lakner

SNPJ Lodge 31, Sharon, Pa. .......................... $35 In memory of Mary Ann Dunch

SNPJ Lodge 225, Girard, Kan. ....................... $30 In memory of Olga M. (Knapich) Shalins

SNPJ Lodge 225, Girard, Kan. ....................... $30 In memory of Carl Ulepich

SNPJ Lodge 786, Orange County, Calif. .........$24 In memory of Ernest RyavecLouis & Nancy Koutoulakis (721), Aliquippa, Pa. .. $15 In memory of Frank PendelSNPJ Lodge 686, West Allis, Wis. .................. $10 In memory of John PintarSNPJ Lodge 686, West Allis, Wis. .................. $10 In memory of Frances Ellis

News from Here & There

by GRACE DOERKLodge 559

CHICAGO — Winter is here, bringing snow and below-freezing temperatures. It’s not to our liking, but there’s nothing we can do. The white snow is beautiful, but the bitter cold isn’t desirable.

It’s been busy with eight days in a row for Christmas parties. It does get exhaust-ing, but then again, it is that time of the year. We’re enjoying all of the holiday events.

We first went to a KSKJ Christmas party, and then a Christmas dinner hosted by our township. Surprisingly, we met Frank and Carolee Michalek there, along with some of their family and friends.

The SNPJ retirees also met recently. We were happy to have Marion Kieras join us. As usual, we talked about old times and our days working at the SNPJ Burr Ridge office. It’s unbelievable how many of our fellow employees have passed on. Oh, the memories...

We were happy to have Bill and Judy

Dedic pay us a visit. Bill, who is the son of the late Mary and Bill Dedic, brought us some Slovenian CDs for the car and had pictures to show us from their trip to Slovenia. Come visit us again when we can spend more time together.

Our sincere sympathy to Anne Cretnik on the passing of her brother, Ed Umek, who lived in Arkansas. Sincere sympathy as well to John and Anne Cretnik on the passing of their sister-in-law Clara Cretnik, wife of the late Tony Cretnik. Years ago, Clara was very active in an SNPJ bowl-ing league and traveled to many different SNPJ bowling tournaments. She was very active in the former Progressive Slovene Women of America organization.

The Slovene Pensioners Club meeting and Christmas party was held Dec. 11. It’s sad to think of how many club members have passed away, how many are ailing and unable to attend club meetings, and the number of 90-year-old members who are attending.

Our group may be getting smaller, but we have a lot of fun and we’re all gener-ous with both monetary and food dona-tions. Jean Cherway and Betty Nadvornik donated the main course for dinner. We thank one of our newest members, Sharon Ferrero, who donated a cookie house that

was given away as a prize.The next Slovene Pensioners Club

meeting, at which we will be electing officers, will be held Jan. 8. We plan to invite a speaker in the new year to inform seniors about some of the changes taking place with Medicare.

Otto and I also attended the Joliet Pensioners meeting and Christmas party. The party included polka music, a great meal and the favorite game for us seniors, bingo. The politicians were very generous with their prize donations.

Because of the bad weather, the Dec. 13 Pioneer Lodge 559 meeting had fewer members in attendance, but we had a great time eating, exchanging grab bag gifts and conversing with one another. We were sorry to hear that member Mary Vrhovnik was in the hospital for a few days. Best wishes, Mary.

Our family celebrated Otto’s 86th birthday at our son Ed’s house on Dec. 14. What a wonderful evening that was! The older we get, the more we appreciate being together with family. The follow-ing day, I attended the SUA Branch #20 Christmas gathering.

Since Christmas is here, Otto and I wish all of our SNPJ friends a merry and wonderful Christmas!

BUSINESS CONFERENCEFROM PAGE 1

selor at the Slovenian Embassy in Washington, D.C., spoke about the current economic climate in Slovenia with a spe-cial emphasis on privatization. Petra Mitchell, the president and CEO of Catalyst Connec-tion based in Pittsburgh, made a very interesting presentation entitled “The Resurgence of Manufacturing in America.” Raymond Marvar and his colleagues from the law firm of Tucker Ellis LLP followed up with an overview of doing business in the United States.

Two companies that were already engaging in inter-national trade, one of them through SABA, gave very informative presentations summarizing their business ventures. The first, presented by Dr. Zorica Crnjak, outlined the collaboration between the

PoliMat Center of Excellence in Slovenia and the Austen Bio-innovation Institute in Akron, Ohio. The second example in-cluded the partnership between Grah Lighting of Slovenia and WIRIC Corporation of Detroit, which was presented by Phil Warburton, president and gen-eral manager of WIRIC Corp.

To conclude the conference, Jurček Žmauc, Consul General of the Republic of Slovenia in Cleveland, introduced all of the members of SABA. This included a total of 36 compa-nies, 22 from Slovenia and 14 from the United States.

Along with the regular ac-tivities planned for promoting business relations between Slovenia and the U.S., SABA plans to hold its second annual business conference in 2014 in Pittsburgh, and to organize a trade mission from Slovenia to the United States in coopera-

tion with AmCham in Slovenia.During the conference,

Slovenian wines by St. Tomas, and Črnko and Protner, Laško beer, and Slovenia Vodka were all promoted by Mr. Emil Gaspari, a Slovenian wine and beer importer from New York.

The city of Cleveland awarded the president of SABA, Mr. Jože Kokal, with a proclamation recognizing him for encouraging and strength-ening business ties between Cleveland and the Republic of Slovenia. Additional sponsors included SPIRIT Slovenia, the Slovenian Consulate in Cleve-land, Team NEO and Tucker Ellis, LLC.

Membership in SABA is open to anyone with an inter-est in significantly increasing the value, frequency and quality of bilateral business trade deals and relationships between the United States and

Slovenia. The annual member-ship fee is $500. Members or member companies are listed in the SABA database, which includes the member’s name, web information and contact information, information on service or business, and prod-uct description and photos. Members may also describe the nature of their bilateral trade interests in their data-base listing. Membership also includes business news related to SABA, participation in pe-riodic business development events, and the opportunity to promote SABA member company, product(s), and/or services.

All interested businesses and individuals should e-mail jurcek.zmauc@gov.si or info@sloaba.com. Additional information is available on the SABA website, www.sloaba.com.

Conference focuses on U.S.-Slovenian business relations

PROSVETADecember 25, 2013www.snpj.org • prosveta@snpj.com 7

PROSVETA CrosswordHoliday Movies (#2613) by StatePoint Media

ACROSS1. Bug hitting windshield, e.g.6. Presidents’ Day month9. Party barrels13. Moonshine14. Grassland15. Beyond normal limits16. _____ Boo Boo17. Opposite of nothing18. It has front and rear seats19. *Misfit elf dentist21. *“It’s a Wonderful Life” star23. Unopened tulip24. Oliver Twist, e.g.25. White wine and cassis28. ___ _ good example30. Sect follower35. “National Velvet” author Bagnold37. Earth’s neighbor39. Some are on a shorter one than others40. Windmill blade41. Top dog43. Attached to a wheel44. Magazine’s special feature46. *“A Christmas Story” leg ____47. Capital on the Dnieper48. Vital50. Cleopatra’s necklace52. Chester White’s home53. Strip of wood55. *“__ Be Home For Christmas”

57. *It happened on 34th Street61. Show off64. Acid in proteins65. Ides month67. Holy See loyalist practicing different rites69. Closely watched on Black Friday70. Before prefix71. ___ Domingo72. Old World duck73. *Astaire’s character in “Holiday Inn”74. Clear the blackboard

DOWN1. “Be quiet!”2. *“Winnie the ____ and Christmas Too”3. Like a famous Ranger4. Tart5. Immune system organ6. Strip the skin off7. Slippery reef dweller8. Model-building wood9. Acknowledged or recognized10. Tropical tuberous root11. Its seed yields gum used as thickener12. Email folder15. Utilitarian20. Swelling from accumulation of fluid

22. Clinical twitching24. “On the _______” or in a belligerent mood25. *He was left home alone26. Silly27. Between shampoo and repeat29. ____ tale31. Pipe problem32. Yellow rides33. Speck in the ocean34. *Famous lampooner on Christmas vacation36. Owner’s acquisition38. Idiot, Yiddish42. Patriots’ Day month45. Phone companies49. Indian dish51. *Agreement to assume Santa’s identity54. Dangle a carrot56. Relating to the moon57. Physics calculation58. Mosque V.I.P.59. Agitate60. All over again61. *Santa’s bitter old brother62. Columbus’ vessel63. Makes lace66. Exist68. Corn site

The solution to puzzle #2613 will run in the Jan. 8, 2014, issue.

© StatePoint Media

by GERRI TREBETSLodge 604 Secretary

CLEVELAND — It was a crisp, sunshiny morning, just perfect for the Pancake & Sausage Breakfast at the SNPJ Farm in Kirtland, Ohio. We didn’t have to worry about the chilly weather, though, as the fireplace was glowing brightly and kept everyone toasty and warm.

Compliments of Lodge 604, several members came out to enjoy the always tasty pancake breakfast with golden brown sausage patties, orange juice and a hot beverage of their choice served up by our illustri-ous Farm Board crew. Lodge 604 members in attendance were Cindy and Sarah Kolacz; John and Rose Bregar; Donna,

Members of the kOlACz, WEBER, PERDAN, DIRk and BREGAR families enjoyed a delicious homemade meal at the Fall Pancake & Sausage Breakfast hosted by the SNPJ Farm.

An active summer, fall for Utopians Lodge 604Trent and Kalli Weber; Stefi Somrack; Rudy, Charlotte and Alexandria Perdan; Pam Dirk; and yours truly.

It has been a very hectic and overwhelming 2013 and I really don’t know where the time went. In the blink of an eye, here we are at the end of another year. I would like to ex-press my heartfelt thanks to all the officers and members who contributed their time through-out the year, whether it was attending meetings or helping with our dinner dance and pic-nic. We were very excited and happy to purchase playground equipment for the Farm, and I thank Rudy, his wife Charlotte, Pam and Alexandria Perdan for their research as to what we should obtain. We hope to see

the young ones come out next season to enjoy it. I truly feel it was a great enhancement to the Farm.

A very special thanks also goes out to Lodge 5, Lodge 566, Lodge 158, Lodge 53, the Ladies Auxiliary and CAL, who contributed so generously toward this equipment as this was a very big undertaking for our Lodge. We will have name plates made and placed near the equipment they sponsored.

Our fifth activity of 2013 was a picnic on June 23 in continuation of the celebration of our 85th anniversary. Once again, we had a lamb, chicken and pig roast. Don’t know if it was because it was the early part of the season, but we didn’t seem to have quite as large a

crowd as in years past. Bob Kravos entertained with his melodious, uplifting tunes and the dance floor stayed crowded. Vice President Rudy Perdan made an anniversary cake for the attendees to enjoy. All in all, it was a nice day but I would have liked to have had more guests and members in attendance.

We were very proud to have Alexandria Perdan represent Lodge 604 in the Miss SNPJ Pageant during Slovenefest at the SNPJ Recreation Center. Alexandria attained the title of Miss Fraternalism, an honor which behooves her bubbly personality. Her heritage is very near and dear to her heart, and she has been very involved with the Young Adult Confer-

ence and as a counselor for Youth Roundup, among other things. Ally has an extremely beautiful set of vocals and I hope she pursues that avenue in the future.

On behalf of the officers and members of Lodge 604, I’d like to wish the SNPJ Na-tional Board, Home Office and all members from around the

country a very happy, blessed and healthy holiday season. May 2014 hold many good things for us all. We remember fondly those members who have gone on to eternal rest throughout the 2013 year. You are gone but not forgotten.

“I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone.”

by TINA RIGLER (449)Federation Recording Secretary

CHICAGO — The Chicago Dis-trict Federation held its annual youth Christmas party Dec. 7 at the Slovenian Catholic Center in Lemont, Ill. In attendance were 12 youth members from Lodges 1 and 449. All children received lunch provided by the Federation, gifts from the SNPJ Home Office and candy from Santa, as well as a photo with Santa when he arrived. There were 12 children in attendance

A total of 10 children per-formed for this year’s program. Performing from Lodge 1 were Caitlyn Conroy, Juliana Conroy and Michael Potter, who performed several dances; Amber DeLap, who read a poem; and Daniel DeLap, who sang. Performing from Lodge 449 were Jason Rigler, who read a poem; Alenka, Adam and Jakob Rus, who sang; and Zachary Stimach, who shared his favorite song. We encour-age the children to participate

and share their talents with us. After the program, games were played and all children received prizes. The children also had the opportunity to make a Christmas craft to take home.

Thanks to all the volunteer workers who helped make this party possible, including Frank and Dolores Novotny at the door; Marianne Murray in the kitchen; our Santa photographer, Frank Novotny; Tina Rigler, who helped put the program and games together; Vince Rigler for the music; and Ed Dabrowski, who helped capture the event on camera. Thanks to our Santa, Ed Stimach, who did a fantastic job with the kids. A special thank you also goes out to Conrad Novak, who baked and donated several strudels for everyone in attendance to enjoy. They were delicious!

The annual Chicago District Federation meeting will be held Jan. 24, 2014, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Slovenian Catholic Center in Lemont.

Chicago District Federation youth members enjoyed a visit from Santa during the Dec. 7 Christmas party.

Chicago Fed treats youth members to holiday fun

Badger Jabberby BOB SMOLE

Lodge 584

MILWAuKEE — All is prepared for the coming Christmas holiday. The SNPJ youth Christmas party is history for 2013. A great time was had by everyone who attended at the new venue, Mary Queen of Heaven Gym on S. 106th St. in West Allis.

The rooms were all decorated and the Christmas tree was in place as excited youth members from Lodges 584 and 686 arrived to participate. The afternoon craft session was handled by Sis. Michelle Schweiger. Deco-rating ornaments and reindeer cupcakes were the options available to the youngsters. This held their attention for a while, then it was time for the entertainment portion of the day’s program.

Guitar in hand, Sis. Judy Lynch (584) led the group in Christmas carols as individual youth members presented their own talents as well. Madalaine Brown (686) and her grandmother, Sis. Mary Alice Frances (686), presented their original poem. Displaying her talent, Tatiana Ebb-inger (584) played her viola for the group.

As the group of children gathered on the floor and sang in front of Sis. Lynch, the excitement was building in anticipation of the appearance of Santa. The red-suited jolly old man with the white beard didn’t let them down as he appeared during the singing of “Jingle Bells.” He circulated around the room wishing every one a merry Christmas before settling into a chair next to the Christ-mas tree.

Santa called out the names on each of the festively decorated presents under the tree and spoke to everyone to determine if they had been naughty or nice. He also tried to find out what was on their wish lists for Christmas. After all the gifts were distributed the countdown began – 3...2...1, and the presents were torn open to reveal the gifts inside, accompanied by screams of delight.

Santa delayed his departure to allow for families and individuals to take additional pictures. Then it was a sing-ing of Santa’s favorite song, “Jingle Bells,” one more time as he departed. Shouts of thanks and merry Christmas to Santa as he left echoed throughout the building.

In another room, Sis. Michele Melton (584) and her son, Bailey Phalen (584), had the food all ready for serving. Sloppy joes, hot dogs, meatballs, macaroni and pasta salads, cheese and sausage trays, many desserts and more, most of which were brought by the guests, were shared. The main dishes were prepared by Sis. Melton and Bailey Phalen. There was plenty of food and soda for everyone to enjoy.

Everyone thanked Sis. Mary Donovan (584) for orga-nizing this event, as she has done for many years – another nice job done by the committee again this year. Many thanks to them, and to all who brought food.

The poem at right was written and presented by Ma-dalaine Brown and her grandmother, Sis. Mary Alice Frances, at the party:

Lodge 686 youth member MADAlAINE BROWN and her grandmother, MARY AlICE FRANCES (686), presenting their poem at the Milwaukee Christmas party.

The SNPJ Kids’ Christmas’Twas the day before the party, and all through the town

The Badgers were preparing with hardly a frown.The SNPJ Christmas party would soon be here as

families all gather to spread some good cheer.Holiday greetings are given to all as

Lodge members arrive at the festive hall.The crafts were all set for the children to make,But deciding which one was no piece of cake.

The fun keeps on going with talent galore,And everyone is clapping, because they want more.

Songs are sung by all who are there as they excitedly wait for the man with white hair.

While “Jingle Bells” is being sung,Santa arrives for a lot more fun.

The presents all nestled under the tree, and the children all wonder, what could it be?

As he calls out their names they jump up with glee,They run up to him and sit on his knee.

They tell him their wishes, but he checks twice,He wants to know if they’ve been naughty or nice.

With presents in hand, the countdown begins,The paper goes flying amongst happy grins.

While the children are playing with all their new toysThe food is being set out for all to enjoy.

The feast looks fantastic, with a variety of treats,But no one will leave without any sweets.

A thank you to all for the food that you brought,It was all very good... and a very nice thought!

To all who helped out in any small way,We want you to know that you brightened our day.

To Mary, and Bob, and the two Michelles,We thank you for being Santa’s elves.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

8 PROSVETADecember 25, 2013 www.snpj.org • prosveta@snpj.com

SNPJ fraternal sympathies

PROSVETA 2014 Publication Dates

Publication dates are highlighted in black boxes; deadline dates are circled. The deadline for submissions is noon on the Monday a week prior to the issue date, unless otherwise noted above or on the front page. Submissions may be mailed to PROSVETA at 247 West Allegheny Road, Imperial, PA 15126; faxed to (724) 695-1555; e-mailed to prosveta@snpj.com; or submitted via the Publications section of the SNPJ web site, www.snpj.org.

MAY 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JuNE 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

JuLY 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

AUGUSt 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

SEPtEMBER 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

OCtOBER 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

NOVEMBER 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

DECEMBER 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JANuARY 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

FEBRUARY 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

MARCh 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

APRIl 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

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2.

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2.

All-Events$5 per person

YES/NO

Highest Average2012-13

Lodge No.

Doubles & Singles Entry fee $30 per person

Friday/Saturday Only

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2.

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HighestAverage2012-13

LodgeNo.

Four Person Team EventEntry fee $60 per team

Sunday Only

Submit bowlers’ names by position in lineup

2014 SNPJ Winter Classic Bowling TournamentFebruary 21-23, 2014

Team name _____________________________________Team captain’s name, phone number & e-mail address:

The entry fee for each event is $15 per bowler, $9.00 of which shall be used for prizes and $6.00 for bowling. An extra $5 is charged to all who desire to compete for

handicap all-events prizes. The Slovene National Benefit Society adds $6 per member to each prize fund except all-events.

Return form, along with fees of $15 per person, per event, to:John Wagner

1435 Paxton Farm Rd., Washington, PA 15301Phone: (724) 746-5074

Make checks payable to SNPJ Lodge 138ENTRY DEADLINE IS JANUARY 31, 2014

The Home Office will verify all memberships. Complete tournament rules are available by contacting the SNPJ Fraternal Department, 247 West Allegheny Road, Imperial, PA 15126. Rules are also available online at www.snpj.org.

co-sponsored by SNPJ Lodge 6 and SNPJ Lodge 138 and SNPJ Athletic Districts 1 and 2

WOMENDoubles & Singles Events

at Sygan Lodge 6 540 Third Ave.

Bridgeville, PA 15017Phone: (412) 221-9862

Saturday, Feb. 22, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 1:30 p.m.

WOMENTeam Event

at Strabane Lodge 138 269 Latimer Ave.

Strabane, PA 15363Club: (724) 745-9860Lanes: (724) 745-9775

Sunday, Feb. 23, 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, Noon Sunday, Feb. 23, 2:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 5 p.m.

MENDoubles & Singles Events

at Strabane Lodge 138 269 Latimer Ave.

Strabane, PA 15363Club: (724) 745-9860Lanes: (724) 745-9775

Sunday, Feb. 23, 9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m.

MENTeam Event

at Sygan Lodge 6 540 Third Ave.

Bridgeville, PA 15017Phone: (412) 221-9862

SNPJ CrosswordPRIME TIME TV (#2513) solution

sis. Mary Kozuh• Lodge 225 •

GIRARD, Kan. — With sad-ness, the members of Lodge 225 announce the Oct. 10, 2013, passing of Sis. Mary Kozuh, 97, formerly of Fron-tenac, Kan., at Via Christi Village, Pittsburg, Kan.

Sis. Kozuh was born Jan. 30, 1916, in Mulberry, Kan., the daughter of John and Mary (Imperl) Kozuh. Following graduation from Cockerill High School, she attended Pittsburg Business College.

Mary was a longtime mem-ber of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Frontenac, and the Sacred Heart Alter Society. She was a member of the former SNPJ Lodge 27, serving as recording secretary for many years. She later transferred to Lodge 225. She was also a 30-year member of the I.D. Sports Club, a member and past chap-

lain of the D.A.V. Auxiliary and a longtime member of the Frontenac American Legion Post 43 Auxiliary.

Sis. Kozuh was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, John Kozuh.

On behalf of the members of Lodge 225 and the Slovene National Benefit Society, we offer our condolences to Sis. Kozuh’s family, relatives and friends on their loss.

sis. Mary c. BiNder• Lodge 138 •

STRABANE, Pa. — The members of Lodge 138 sadly report the Nov. 9, 2013, passing of Sis. Mary C. Binder, 93, of Greensburg, Pa., formerly of Canonsburg, Pa., in her home with her loving family by her side.

Sis. Binder was born June 15, 1920, in Bridgeville, Pa.,

a daughter of the late Edo-ardo and Teresa Valenzano Andreone. She lived most of her life in Canonsburg, and for the past eight years was a resident of Greensburg. Prior to her retirement, she had been employed for many years as a cook for the dietary department of Canon -McMillan School District.

In addition to 44 years of SNPJ membership, she was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church and its Chris-tian Mothers and Guild, the ladies auxiliaries of American Legion Post 902 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 191, and Canonsburg Senior Citizens. She enjoyed dancing, walk-ing and playing bingo, among many other games. She also enjoyed gardening and build-ing puzzles.

On Nov. 29, 1947, she mar-ried Robert C. Binder, who passed away Sept. 2, 1982. Surviving are two daughters, Marie (Jeff) Taylor and Linda (David) Hauck; two grand-children, Marie (Sam) Wilson and Paul (Jill) Hauck; a step-granddaughter, Laura Taylor; a brother, Gus (Betty) Andreone; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Patricia Ann Binder in 1991; three brothers, Adolf, Robert and Joseph Andreone; and three sis-

ters, Carlotta Valentino, Rose Emling and Ro sina Andreone, who died as a child.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for Sis. Binder Nov. 13 in St. Patrick Church, Canonsburg. Interment fol-lowed in Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray, Pa.

On behalf of the members of Lodge 138 and the Slovene National Benefit Society, we extend our sympathies to Sis. Binder’s family, relatives and friends on their loss.

SiS. AngeLA Potochnick• Lodge 689 •

HELPER, utah — With sad-ness, the members of Lodge 689 report the Nov. 17, 2013, passing of Sis. Angela “Angie” Fercik Potochnick, 90, in West Valley City, Utah.

Sis. Potochnick was born May 16, 1923, in Standardville, Utah, the second of three chil-dren born to John and Jennie Jarc Fercik. She married John Potochnick April 3, 1946, and they were blessed with two beautiful children, Dick and Irene. The Potochnicks were married for 51 years before John passed away. Angie helped care for him through many illnesses.

She graduated as a regis-tered nurse from Holy Cross Hospital School of Nursing in Salt Lake City in 1945.

She worked at hospitals in the Standardville, Dragerton and Price areas of Utah, and was chosen as employee of the month at Castleview Hospital. After retiring in 1988, Sis. Potochnick volunteered as a surgical nurse for the Carbon County Humane Society. She had a love for animals, and her favorite cat, Snowball, was her loyal companion for 22 years.

Angie was proud of her Slovenian heritage. She made a great potica and enjoyed attending the Slovenian Day Picnics, at which she wore her “Slovenians are Nice People” shirt with pride.

Angie enjoyed traveling with her family, and got to experience many parts of the world with her daughter and son-in-law. One of her favorite trips was visiting and recon-

necting with family in Slove-nia. She also enjoyed many road trips with her grandkids. “Grandma” never let her age slow her down and was always up for shopping and eating out at the Olive Garden. Angie looked forward to lunches with her retired Carbon County nursing friends and her special weekly outings with her loving niece Jo Ellen.

Sis. Potochnick was pre-ceded in death by her husband, John; her son, Dick; a son-in-law, Lowell Tolman; and a sister, Jennie Ashworth. She is survived by her daughter, Irene Tolman; a daughter-in-law, Robin Potochnick; four granddaughters, Marquette (Jeff) Smith, Misty (Natalie Hawks) Potochnick, Michelle (Peter) Fazio and Stephanie (Wadi) Rodriguez; eight great-grandchildren, Rodger Smith, Melissa Smith, Lincoln Po-tochnick-Hawkes, Korbin and Davis Potochnick-Hawkes, Sada Rodriguez, and Mason and Matthew Fazio; and a brother, John Fercik.

A Funeral Mass for Sis. Potochnick was celebrated on Nov. 23 at Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church, Price, Utah.

On behalf of the members of Lodge 689 and the Slovene National Benefit Society, we offer our condolences to Sis. Potochnick’s family, relatives and friends on their loss.

Sis. ANGELA POTOCHNICK (689)

May they always rest in peace.Sadly missed by Mary Lou (Lipovec) Vidergar;

Frank, Gretchen, Anna & Ivan Vidergar;Keith, Lisa (Vidergar) & Mia Lucas.

Frank J. VidergarLouis LipoVec

Mary LipoVec gLadMichaeL gLad

Remembering our dear ones during this holiday season and always...

Frank & Mary Vidergar and edith

Always in our thoughts

Frank Joseph VidergarMarch 15, 1935 – Dec. 27, 2007

Six years have passedsince you left us.

Mary LouFrank Jr., Gretchen, Anna & Ivan

Lisa, Keith & Mia

We will always love you.

lODGE 53 YEAR ENDFROM PAGE 1

served cake afterward. It’s good to give of yourself; the return is immeasurable.

On Oct. 29, several Lodge 53 members attended the wonderful Pancake & Sausage Breakfast served at the SNPJ Farm and it was as delicious as usual! In November our Lodge hosted an appreciation dinner for those who helped out at our two picnics over the summer. You see, there are some fringe benefits to volunteering, so

why not get involved?We discussed our Lodge

Christmas party at our No-vember meeting. Considering last year’s low attendance, the Lodge officers decided to forgo the party this year. Our plan instead is to host a Family Fun Fling sometime around the Easter holiday in April. More details will be announced, so stay tuned to PROSVETA or phone Secre-tary Martha Meglich at (440) 884-5043. Please remember, your participation is needed

for any event the Lodge sponsors in order for it to be a success.

The Lodge 53 annual meeting was held Nov. 19. Our various yearly donations were discussed, voted on and passed. All officers remain the same for 2014: Presi-dent Pauline Barbish, Vice President Ed Petric, Recording Secretary Pat Budzilek and Secretary/Treasurer Martha Meglich. Our auditors are Ann Wagner, Anne Herpak and Jake Gabrenya. Our bi-

monthly Lodge meetings are held on the third Tuesday in February, April, June, August and October; in November we hold both a regular meet-ing and an annual meeting. Meetings begin at 1 p.m. at the Slovenian Workmen’s Home on Waterloo Road.

In closing out 2013, V Boj Lodge 53 wishes all of its members, their families and friends, and everyone in SNPJland a very merry Christ-mas and a happy and healthy New Year.

The year draws to a close for Lodge 53 members