THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE 1

April 2016 marks KSKJ Life’s 122nd year as an organization that’s put families and communities first. To celebrate, we wanted to take a moment to highlight all of our lodge anniversaries and acknowledge some of the more significant milestones. Find your lodge in the chart on page two to note your founding date and see how you rank among the others. To honor some of the lodges who are celebrating a 5- or 10-year anniversary milestone, we’ve included a short write up to let you know a little more about them and what they are up to. Happy anniversary!

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES — LODGE #29 JOLIET, ILAnton Nemanich established St. Francis de Sales Lodge #29 on February 2, 1896 at his bar on 915 N. Scott Street in Joliet with 13 new members. He served four terms as President in Joliet, IL, Calumet, MI, Chicago, IL, and Pittsburgh, PA. The society had 76 members (13 initially announced and 63 more joined the following Sunday). In the first 28 years of the lodge’s existence, members donated $25,430 to hospitals and doctors and $3,700 for funeral expenses. They had a total of 873 members by April 1924—462 active adults and 411 youth members. The lodge was always very proud to have the most youth members than any other lodge. In 1924, their treasury was $7,500.

CELEBRATING LODGE MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES

VOLUME 126—NO.4 ISSN 1524-4407 APRIL 2016

1-800-THE-KSKJKSKJLIFE.COM

IN THIS ISSUE

LODGE MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIESPage 2

ASEF GALAPage 4

MATCING FUNDS UPDATE Page 5

FRATERNAL UPDATES Page 6

SPRING CLEAN YOUR LIFE INSURANCE POLICYPage 7

A LETTER FROM MILITARY MISSIONS Page 8

JOIN HANDS MONTH - COMING THIS MAY!Page 9

LODGE NEWSPage 10

Why was St. Francis Lodge established in Joliet in 1896? It’s purpose was to assist four other groups in Joliet, Chicago, LaSalle and Aurora to incorporate in the State of Illinois. The rules for incorporation at the time required 1,000 members. KSKJ Life was proud to gather so many members in a short amount of time.

At some point, we were known as the “Lodge of Champions” because of our participation and awards in the athletic competitions between the lodges.

Our many activities include bowling parties for youth members, Steak Fries, a Halloween party, Bean Bags for Hospice and a Holiday party. Once a year, we collect school supplies and canned goods for the needy. We also participate every year in KSKJ Life’s Matching Funds event, which allows us to choose a community event to participate in.

On February 2, 2016, we celebrated our Lodge’s 120th Anniversary. What a long road it has been and ever changing! We are the second largest lodge in KSKJ Life at the present time with 1,368 members. Our focus as a lodge is to provide fellowship and activities for our members while simultaneously hosting many charitable events within our community. KSKJ Life has come a long way in 120 years, and we believe our forefathers are proud of us and our many accomplishments, and that they

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MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES CONTINUED entrusted us to continue their vision. Happy 120 years, St. Francis de Sales Lodge #29. And, forever may you remain strong!

Debbie Zelinski

A photo from Lodge #29’s 30th anniversary year in 1926.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION — LODGE #104 PUEBLO, COWhat a great vision of the Slovenians to start Fraternal Lodges for life insurance, friendship and taking care of each other. Through the years, officers and generations have kept the fraternal bonds strong.

Unfortunately, records from 1904 to 1923 remain unknown, and all records from 1923 to 1951 are documented in Slovenian. However, we do know the following facts:

• When sick pay was paid, the rule was you had to stay in your home. If you left and a member saw you, they were to report you to the President or Secretary. This was a way to always protect the lodge funds. Other rules about it were on a form you had to sign.

• In 1960, an ad was placed on the Slovenian Radio Hour for $5.

• Birth disbursements were made from $15 to $20.

• Our current Auditor, Evelyn Vertovec, received $20 in 1961 and 1963. All of her daughters and sons are still lodge members. (In fact, many lodge members’ children continue to receive the benefits their parents enrolled them for.)

• In 1989, Mrs. Rotondo became Secretary. She had a big tree in her front yard and posted a sign notifying members when you could pay your insurance.

• Sally (deceased) and Agnes Glavich have served various officer jobs since 1968. They would come to the meetings with cash boxes and a book for counting dues. Sally’s daughters Mary Jo Glavich and Nancy Wimber served as President.

• Bill Kocman’s mother was also active with the lodge.

• Our current President Marian Pechek and Diane Slaten served as Activities Coordinator, and each are daughters of Agnes.

Currently, we host a picnic in July where members bring school supplies and the children can ride rides at the park. Last year for our Christmas Party, food items were collected for Military Missions. The Secora Family generously donated a monetary gift for the event. They are all long-time members and some have been honored as 50-Year Members.

Lodge #104 believes that Matching Funds is a great program. It’s so wonderful to help so many groups. Additionally, a fundraiser is hosted each year for St. John Newman School. We donate and sell sausage sandwiches and apple strudel made by lodge member Susan Miketa. She is the daughter of Evelyn Vertovec. All these projects have been done

2016 LODGE ANNIVERSARIESLodge Age In 2016 Founded

Lodge #1 122 years 06.10.1894

Lodge #2 122 years 04.02.1894

Lodge #7 122 years 04.02.1894

Lodge #20 121 years 02.13.1895

Lodge #25 121 years 05.21.1895

Lodge #29 120 years 02.02.1896

Lodge #42 119 years 04.30.1897

Lodge #44 119 years 08.22.1897

Lodge #50 117 years 11.30.1899

Lodge #52 116 years 05.06.1900

Lodge #53 116 years 11.17.1900

Lodge #59 114 years 03.04.1902

Lodge #63 114 years 10.16.1902

Lodge #65 113 years 01.19.1903

Lodge #69 113 years 08.17.1903

Lodge #79 112 years 12.18.1904

Lodge #104 110 years 12.28.1906

Lodge #108 109 years 02.14.1907

Lodge #110 109 years 03.07.1907

Lodge #115 109 years 05.14.1907

Lodge #136 106 years 05.16.1910

Lodge #143 105 years 07.18.1911

Lodge #144 105 years 09.10.1911

Lodge #146 104 years 04.01.1912

Lodge #150 103 years 02.28.1913

Lodge #153 102 years 05.02.1914

Lodge #169 95 years 07.01.1921

Lodge #170 94 years 04.14.1922

Lodge #171 94 years 06.01.1922

Lodge #196 91 years 08.01.1925

Lodge #197 91 years 09.24.1925

Lodge #219 89 years 03.08.1927

Lodge #226 88 years 02.09.1928

Lodge #236 86 years 06.02.1930

Lodge #257 48 years 02.04.1968

KSKJ VOICEOFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF KSKJ LIFE,

AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOLIC UNION, IN THE INTEREST OF ITS MEMBERS

The KSKJ Voice (ISSN 1524-4407) is published monthly by KSKJ Life, American Slovenian Catholic Union (2439 Glenwood Ave., Joliet, IL 60435).It is sent free of charge to KSKJ Life members and for $20 a year to other subscribers. Periodicals postage paid in Joliet, IL and additional mailing offices.

Publisher: KSKJ LifeManaging Editor: Tony Mravle, Jr. English articles for publication should be sent directly to voice@kskjlife.com.Submission Deadline: 2nd Friday of each month.To change address or name, or for matters concerning membership, please contact the KSKJ Life Home Office. This publication is also available electronically at kskjlife.com.

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with St. Joseph Lodge #7, and Diane coordinates many of our lodge activities with the help of her sister Marian.

Our membership has been declining, but we are still strong. Lodge #104 is proud to be a part of KSKJ Life!

Norma J. Becco

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST — LODGE #143 JOLIET, ILLodge #143 was established on July 19, 1911, by charter members Joseph Grill, Joseph Avsec, Joseph Sekula, Matthew Rogina, Michael Stajduhar, Joseph Plese, John Drassler, Walter Plese, John Kostelec, Frank Papez, Rev. Joseph Stukel, Joseph Skrinar, August Stukel, Stephe Skrinar, Frank Nemanich, Joseph Jaksha and Frank Petrovcic. Although the society was only organized with 17 original members in the Joliet area, it has grown throughout the years and now boasts more than 730 members.

On September 1, 1981, Lodge #143 merged with Lodge #11, St. John the Baptist lodge in Aurora, IL, which was established in 1891. Other merges included former Lodge #5 of LaSalle, which had merged previously with former Lodge #75 and Lodge #139 of LaSalle, as well as Lodge #154 of Peoria.

Throughout the years, Lodge #143 has organized many fraternal events, as well as charitable fundraisers. From regional sporting events and annual youth activities to summer fundraising picnics and sponsored religious events, the lodge has always encouraged participation by members of all ages, including the cultural and charitable aspects that come with its history.

A number of members from Lodge #143 are originally from Slovenia. Brothers Stan and Frank Markun emigrated from Slovenia in the late 1950s. Ivanka Markun immigrated in the late 50s to the Milwaukee area and moved to the Joliet area when she married Stan. The Markun family has been a major supporter and leader of our lodge for much of the past 20 years. Another long-time member, Tony Mravle Sr., emigrated from Slovenia in 1960. After college and service in the army, he moved to Joliet and began his career at KSKJ Life as a salesman, ascending over the years to the role of CEO since

2002. Other notable members of Lodge #143 include Joseph Zalar, who was KSKJ Life’s Supreme Secretary (CEO) in the early 1900s for more than 50 years, and Louis Zeleznekar, who became Supreme Secretary upon the death of Mr. Zalar and served from 1959-1971.

With its strong history and foundation for the future, St. John the Baptist Lodge #143 is proud to celebrate 105 years and many more to come.

Julia Markun

Lodge #143 youth members at the 2014 Oktoberfest event.

SS CYRIL & METHODIUS — LODGE #144 SHEBOYGAN, WIEstablished September 10, 1911, Lodge #144 had 12 charter members, one of whom was the pastor of SS Cyril & Methodius parish, Rev. James Cherne.

Members included: Rev. James Cherne, Joseph Meznarsic, James Prestor, Paul Valentincic, James Decman, Andrew Kalan, Matt Juntz, Jerry Kosec, John Droll, Josephine Droll, Mary Droll and Mary Juntz. Initial officers were Joseph Meznarsic, president; James Prestor, secretary; and Jame Decman, treasurer.

This year, Lodge #144 held the Juvenile Bowling Tournament on March 5. Additionally, the lodge will host an Annual Dinner celebrating our 105th anniversary on August 21. We will also honor 50-year members and award Financial Aid to qualified college students. The Annual Juvenile Christmas Party will be Sunday, December 4, 2016.

Pat Slapnick

Original banner for Lodge #144

ST. JOSEPH — LODGE #169 CLEVELAND, OHSt. Joseph Lodge #169 was founded on July 1, 1921. From the beginning, the lodge had close ties to St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood. Reverend Joseph Skur, pastor of St. Mary’s, was the founder and first spiritual director of St. Joseph Lodge #169. The lodge initially started with 31 members.

For much of the 20th century, Collinwood thrived due in large part to heavy industry. Besides the railroad yards, major corporations like General Motors and General Electric employed thousands of workers. By the 1930s, Collinwood’s economic vitality had drawn large numbers of Slovenians and other ethnic white Europeans to its borders. KSKJ Life St. Joseph Lodge #169 benefited from this large influx of economic immigrants. After World War ll, under the Displaced Persons Act of 1948 and Refugee Act of 1953, more than 50,000 Yugoslavs came to the United States. Many were Slovenian refugees who migrated to Cleveland. Once again, this created a large growth spurt for fraternal organizations such as KSKJ Life.

Today, as 95 years ago, KSKJ Life St. Joseph #169 maintains strong ties with St. Mary’s Church and the surrounding community. Times have changed, but our values have not.

Phil Hrvatin

Lodge #169 Cadets circa 1942.

MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES CONTINUED

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ASEF GALA

Dr. Ronald M. Šega (left) is pictured with KSKJ Life Chairman Rudy Krasovec and KSKJ Life National Sales Manager Paul Kaiser at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco, CA.

Dr. Ronald M. Šega was the recipient of the 2016 American Slovenian Education Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award.

American-Slovenian Dr. Ronald M. Šega is a professor at Colorado State University and a former astronaut aboard space shuttles Atlantis and Discovery.

The third annual gala was held in San Francisco on February 28. The reception featured a cocktail hour showcasing educational innovations by Americans of Slovenian heritage followed by dinner and entertainment.

KSKJ Life was a proud sponsor of this event.

Courtesy of Cleslo.com and Phil Hrvatin.

Theresa SkillingWaukegan, IL - Lodge #79St. Mary Lodge #79, $20

Theresa SkillingWaukegan, IL - Lodge #79Mary Chamernik, $20

IN MEMORY OF

WAUKEGAN LODGES HOST BASKETBALL & VOLLEYBALL COMPETITION

In the February issue of The Voice, I wrote an article about the history of KSKJ Life’s Basketball Tournaments. The first tournament was held in 1932, and the tradition continued for the more than 80 years.

Over the last 20 years, fewer and fewer teams have entered the tournament, making us wonder if the long-lasting tradition was indeed coming to an end. Not willing to “throw in the towel” just yet, Waukegan lodges St. Joseph #53 and St. Mary #79 changed the two-day KSKJ Life member only National Tournament into a one-day Round Robin competition, allowing non-members to play (legally) on a lodge team for the first time. The event, which was held at the Waukegan Field House on Saturday, February 20, had great competition all day from the four Waukegan and one Milwaukee Basketball teams.

A Volleyball Match was scheduled for the Women, with only two Waukegan teams entering. Under the watchful eye of honorary team Captains Mary Chamernik and Lois Koncan. A hard fought match took place.

I would like to thank all of the Waukegan members who made this one-day event a fun and friendly, yet competitive day. Thank you to Mike Brown, Lance Johnson and Jay Lerner for pulling this together. Thanks also to the Milwaukee players and Matt from Joliet for joining us. While many of us wish the tournaments we knew and grew up on still existed, those days are probably behind us, and this might just be the next best thing. I’m looking forward to hosting the event again next February.

MaryLou Stefanick, National Director of Athletics

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS, VISIT THE ATHLETICS SECTION OF KSKJLIFE.COM.

Edward G. PavlovicHarrisburg, PA - Lodge #42St. Aloysius Lodge #42, $10 Walter J. TezakSteelton, PA - Lodge #42St. Aloysius Lodge #42, $10

Volleyball - Kneeling: Deb Machak, Christa Kerber, Kelsey Glabowicz, Lindy Pasiewicz, Torie Pasiewicz, MaryLou Stefanick; Second row: Nancy Wilcox, Team Captain Mary Chamernik, Team Captain Lois Koncan, Tammy Tortoricci; Third row: Sue Dolence, Andrea Ostrowski, Michele Klemm, Bev Turkowski, Patty Maloney, Laura Govekar; Back row: Volleyball Officials Eric Pasiewicz, Danny Rygiel, Matt Rygiel

1st Place Team (White Shirts) - Kneeling: Danny Rygiel, Steve Drinka, Ryan Miscenic; Standing: Vince Marone, Matt Rygiel, Drew Rygiel, Matt Gleason, Eric Pasiewicz, Zach Rygiel, Anthony Rygiel; Not pictured: Alex Pasiewicz

2nd Place Team (Blue Shirts) - Front Row - Ryan Brown, Ryan Christensen; Standing: Austin Chamernik, Mike Sroka, Jonathan Turkowski, Ryan Johnson, Dan Sackman Not pictured: Brett Johnson

Kathy Govekar, Deb Morrissey, Barb Marolt and Mary Ann Shinsky busy manning the concession stand.

Basketball team from Milwaukee.

THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE 5

LODGE #79ST. MARYMembers and friends of St. Mary Lodge #79 were treated to an enjoyable night out on Saturday, March 12, as the lodge hosted its annual No-Tap Bowling Outing and Matching Funds Pizza Raffle event. This year, we partnered with Cristo Rey St. Martin School in Waukegan, and at the end of the night, the school was the big winner!

More than 30 prizes, valued at $50 to $100 were donated by our lodge, our generous members and our friends. St. Mary member Debbie Slater did another wonderful job this year coordinating the raffle as did Fraternal Activities coordinator John Deram with the bowling at the end of the evening.

Cristo Rey St. Martin is a Catholic learning community that empowers young people of limited economic means to become men and women of faith, purpose and service. Through a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, integrated with relevant work study experience, CRSM students graduate ready to succeed in college and life.

MaryLou Stefanick

LODGE #52ST. ALOYSIUSSt. Aloysius Lodge #52 held their 18th Annual Sausage Feast in January at the Slovenian National Home. The event, which included entertainment by Hoosier Polka Jammers, was a KSKJ Life Matching Funds event benefiting ArtMix.

ArtMix is a local organization that allows people of all ages and ability levels to interact and express themselves through different art mediums, including ceramics, 2-D arts, music, movement and drama. All classes are led by teaching artists. For more information on ArtMix, please visit their website artmixindiana.org.

Lodge #52 generously donated $1,000 to ArtMix. The donation will be used to continue the efforts of the organization. Thank you to all of the volunteers who helped prepare the sausages and organize such a wonderful event. And, thank you to all of the members who came to enjoy this evening while supporting ArtMix!

MATCHING FUNDS UPDATE

President Angie Cuson from Lodge #52 presented a check for $2,000, which includes the Matching Funds from the Home Office, to Gayle Horton, ArtMix President and CEO. Also included in the photo is Meghan McNeal, ArtMix intern artist.

St. Mary #79 Fraternal Activities Coordinator John Deram goes over last minute details with Glen and Debbie Slater at the event.

What items did Dan and Bev Turkowski want to win at the Matching Funds Prize Raffle? Dan wanted the golf club and Bev wanted the Coach purse. Unfortunately, neither one got their wish.

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MEMBER MEMORIAL

Our prayers go out to the families of our recently passed members. Claims have been paid and a donation to the KSKJ Life Educational Grant Fund has been made on behalf of each.

MARCH 2015

Lillian Balkovec - Lodge #50, Pittsburgh, PASean Bardwell - Lodge #143, Peoria, ILAnn Boh - Lodge #136, Marshfield, WI Alice Bouche - Lodge #29, Stayton, ORWilliam Debelak - Lodge #150, Seven Hills, OHFrederick Gerbeck - Lodge #110, Barberton, OHJennie Germann - Lodge #59, Minneapolis, MNSylvia Haug - Lodge #65, Milwaukee, WIPauline Jaksich - Lodge #2, Omaha, NEJoseph Jarc - Lodge #169, Willoughby Hills, OHJoyce Korst - Lodge #108, Joliet, ILJohn Kukar - Lodge #69, Delta, COJo Ann Lipovac - Lodge #115, Kansas City, KSJames Mericle - Lodge #619, Harrisburg, PAFrederick Mong - Lodge #146, Silver Lake, OHJoseph O Bryan - Lodge #169, Watseka, ILRamie Mary Otto - Lodge #144, Sheboygan, WIMary Pieszak - Lodge #50, Cranberry TWP, PAWilliam Pike - Lodge #169, Cuyahoga Falls, OHMary Riola - Lodge #108, Joliet, ILAnn Roby - Lodge #170, Ottawa, IL Sue Self - Lodge #619, York, PAJoseph Shercell - Lodge #153, Hurt, VAMary Sincavage - Lodge #619, Minersville, PASusan Skull - Lodge #171, Duluth, MNRobert Taylor - Lodge #143, Solon, IALillian Terlop - Lodge #150, Solon, OHWalter Tezak - Lodge #42, Steelton, PAMargaret Urbancic - Lodge #79, Waukegan, ILStanley Yaklich - Lodge #79, Milwaukee, WIJohn Yelenick - Lodge #7, Denver, CO

NATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

The National Golf Tournament, hosted by Lodges #53 and Lodge #79, will be held Saturday, June 25, at the Bonnie Brook Golf Course in Waukegan, IL. Tee time is set for 1 p.m.

The cost is $65 a person and $260 per team. The ticket includes a round of golf, a golf cart, dinner and more. The tournament will be played as a four-person scramble. Each team must have at least two KSKJ Life members on it. All skill levels are invited to participate.

The registration deadline is Wednesday, June 15. Please send entries and a check to John Deram at 37015 N Mulberry Lane, Gurnee, IL, 60031. The tournament is limited to the first 30 teams, so please don’t delay! For more information, contact John Deram at kskjwaukeganathletics@yahoo.com, or MaryLou Stefanick at marylou.stefanick@kskjlife.com.

PLEASE CHECK KSKJLIFE.COM OR FUTURE EDITIONS OF THE VOICE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

2015 LODGE PERSONS OF THE YEAR

The following individual received the Lodge Person of the Year award during their lodge’s recent meeting.

JUDY DERRA LODGE #79WAUKEGAN, IL

FULL LIST OF RECIPIENTS IN THE ACTIVITIES SECTION OF KSKJLIFE.COM.

KSKJ LIFE FRATERNAL UPDATES

ABC BOWLING TOURNAMENT

The ABC (Alternative Bowling Competition) is back for its third year. KSKJ Life has sponsored bowling tournaments for our adult members for several decades now, but this one is just for our youth members.

Here is your opportunity to participate in a national event, right in your own hometown – you don’t need to live close to a lodge to be part of this competition! Bowl at your convenience, either with family members, friends or as a lodge event. Just go bowling!

You still have until April 30 to participate in the ABC Youth Bowling. Visit the Athletics Section of kskjlife.com for more information and to register. If you have any questions or comments, please contact our National Director of Athletics, MaryLou Stefanick at athletics@kskjlife.com.

REGISTER TODAYENTER IN THE ATHLETICS SECTION OF KSKJLIFE.COM.

NATIONAL BOWLING TOURNAMENT

The National Bowling Tournament will be held April 23 - 24 at Freeway Lanes of Parma (located at 12859 Brookepark Rd., Parma, OH). Entries close April 14. Rules, entry form and hotel information can be found in the Athletics section of kskjlife.com.

HAVE QUESTIONS? CONTACT JEAN MARINCIC AT 440-781-3075 OR JMARINCIC01@GMAIL.COM.

JOIN THE RACE TO 100

Have you joined the Race to 100 yet? KSKJ Life members have a special opportunity to support our organization and fraternals across the country with this new grassroots campaign. Simply go to www.raceto100.org for more information and follow the easy instructions. A letter will automatically be sent to your Representative voicing your support of fraternals and their importance in our communities.

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WHOLE LIFE Our whole life policies cover the policyholder for his/her entire life. The policy face amount is guaranteed and can be paid over a period of time depending on the policy. This policy is a great fit for individuals who need coverage for their entire life.

TERM LIFE Our flexible term life policies cover the policyholder for either 10, 20 or 30 years. Face amount and premiums are flexible, allowing policyholders to customize a policy that’s right for them. This policy is a great fit for individuals looking to protect their families over a specific period of time.

For more information on KSKJ Life life products, contact your local KSKJ Life Agent or visit www.kskjlife.com.

CALL: 855-332-8809 AND THEN PRESS “2”EMAIL: SALES@KSKJLIFE.COMVISIT: KSKJLIFE.COM

Courtesy of Life Happens

SPRING CLEAN YOUR LIFE INSURANCE POLICYThe snow is melting. Flowers are blooming. Spring is here—and for many that means ridding their homes of the cobwebs and clutter that accumulated over the winter.

Spring is also a good time to give your life insurance policy a good scrubbing. A lot may have changed in your life over the past year, and some seasonal touch-up work is a good way to stay on top of your finances and maybe save a little cash in the process. Time to get to work.

Many people think of life insurance as a “set it and forget it” product. They pay the premium but otherwise don’t pay attention to the coverage they chose when they got the policy. And that may be fine if you don’t have any life events that change your insurance needs. But take another look if you:

• Have gotten married or divorced, which means you should update your beneficiaries and check to see if your coverage amount is correct.

• Make more than when you bought the policy, which affects the amount your family needs for income replacement.

• Have had more children, which increases the amount needed cover child care, college and other expenses.

• Have a new mortgage, which changes the amount and length of the life insurance policy you need.

One in four Americans say they need more life insurance, but only one in 10 say they are likely to purchase a policy in the next year, according to the 2014 Insurance Barometer Study by Life Happens and LIMRA. If this is your year to take the life insurance plunge, a KSKJ Life representative can help assess your insurance needs.

Here’s a short breakdown of two of our KSKJ Life insurance plans to help you get a better understanding of a policy that’s right for you:

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A LETTER FROM MILITARY MISSIONS Members of KSKJ Life:

Thank you for your very generous donation of a check in the amount of $850 for your 2015 Supporting Soldiers Campaign. We are honored that you chose our organization as your partner to show support for our troops. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Military Missions, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit charity established for the purpose of supporting our military and their families. Our organization reaches Beyond the Yellow Ribbon in our community! As our military personnel serve, providing protection and safety for all of us, we work to give something back to our troops and their families.

Military Missions, Inc. sends out care packages on a year-round basis to deployed military. Packages are sent out to individuals as well as deployed military units. Our goal is to provide a touch of home during long deployments. Your donations make it possible to send these care packages.

Donations also make lives a little bit easier for those here on the “Home Front” providing help for emergencies that arise during a deployment. This support eases the minds of our deployed military knowing that someone back home is helping their family through a difficult situation. Our bi-monthly support group meetings are also an important element of encouragement to military family members.

Support also extends to our veteran community. Military Missions, Inc. is honored to work alongside other organizations in the community to support those who have served to keep our nation free.

On behalf of the heroes who will be touched by your gift, we are grateful. Thank you for partnering with Military Missions, Inc. to support and encourage those that ensure freedoms known only to Americans.

Sincerely,

LINDA CUMMINS Military Missions, Inc.

Find Your Slovenian Roots!

Slovenian Genealogy Research Center6415 St. Clair Avenue • Cleveland, OH 44103

1.216.361.5600 • sgsi.rc@gmail.comSGSI is a designated 501(c)3 non-profit society by the US Internal Revenue Service

DON’T KNOW HOW TO BEGIN OR WHERE TO GO NEXT?

START DIGGING TODAY! Call us, email us, or visit our website

www.sloveniangenealogy.org. • Explore research tools/tips• Read The Linden Tree • Much more

Our mission is to help YOU!

CHARITABLE GIVING AWARDSLODGE #196Rosemary Mattson, who is a member of Lodge #59 and Volunteer Coordinator of the Quad City Food Shelf, receives a $50 Charitable Giving Award check from Karl Oberstar, Jr., President of Blessed Virgin of Help Lodge #196. A food drive was held at the lodge’s Christmas party. Both Karl and Rosemary are also officers of the KSKJ Life Minnesota Federation.

LODGE #115St. Veronica Lodge #115 member Paul Cline shows the items that were collected for St. Mary and St. Anthony’s Religious Education in Kansas City, KS. The organization also received a $50 Charitable Giving Award check.

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ST. CHRISTINE LODGE #219 (EUCLID, OH)DATE TO BE ANNOUNCEDForbes House in Painesville – Lodge #219 will host a clothing drive.

CHRIST THE KING LODGE #226 (CLEVELAND, OH)MAY 7St. Claire Slovenian National Home – Lodge #226 will clean the courtyard and parking lot, spreading mulch and topsoil and paint the interior of the home.

Don’t see your lodge on the list? Don’t worry! There’s still plenty of time to organize a project. If your lodge will be participating, please let us know by emailing fraternal@kskjlife.com.

SHARE WITH US WHAT YOUR LODGE DID BY POSTING YOUR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS ON SOCIAL MEDIA USING THE HASHTAG #KSKJLIFE.

STS. CYRIL & METHODIUS LODGE #144 (SHEBOYGAN, WI)MAY 7Greendale Cemetery – Lodge #144 will host a general clean-up in preparation for Memorial Day.

ST. ANNE LODGE #150 (CLEVELAND, OH)MAY 7Slovenian National Home E. 80th (the NASH) – Lodge #150 will host a general clean-up around the property.

ST. ELIZABETH LODGE #171 (DULUTH, MN)MAY 7St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church and Stowe Elementary School – Lodge #171 will clean up the grounds at both sites.

BLESSED VIRGIN OF HELP LODGE #196 (GILBERT, MN)MAY 18St. Joseph’s Catholic Church – Lodge #196 will host a spring clean-up at church grounds.

There’s an old saying that, “Many hands make light work.” This phrase rings true in the overwhelming response that we have received so far from the lodges who will be participating in Join Hands Month this Spring. From placing American flags on veterans’ graves in time for Memorial Day to cleaning bike paths at area parks, numerous KSKJ Life members will be participating in this worthwhile cause. They will be joining in a day of not only service and volunteerism, but camaraderie and friendship.

The following is a list of lodges (as of press time) who will be participating in a Join Hands project:

ST. JOSEPH LODGE #2 (JOLIET, IL)MAY 14Sunny Hill Nursing Home – Lodge #2 will be planting flowers and vegetables. Members will donate planters, plants, etc.

ST. VITUS LODGE #25 (CLEVELAND, OH)MAY 27 & 28Calvary Cemetery (May 27) and All Souls Cemetery (May 28) – Lodge #25 will place American flags on military stones.

BLESSED VIRGIN LODGE #50 (PITTSBURGH, PA)MAY 23 - MAY 27Allegheny Cemetery, Lawrenceville, PA – Lodge #50 will helping to place 18,000 American flags at all veteran graves.

ST. VERONICA LODGE #115 (KANSAS CITY, KS)APR 9Slovenian neighborhood at 5th & 6th & Ohio – Lodge #115 will host a general neighborhood clean-up. Joining with Holy Family Catholic Slovenian Community

MARY OF PERPETUAL HELP LODGE #136 (WILLARD, WI)MAY 14Assisted Living at Neillsville, WI – Lodge #136 will socialize and play bingo with the residents.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST LODGE #143 (JOLIET, IL)APR 24Shorewood Parks – Lodge #143 will participate in the “Green Up Clean Up” cleaning bike paths and parks.

JOIN HANDS MONTH – COMING THIS MAY!

REGISTER TODAY FOR JOIN HANDS MONTH!

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTSin March, we will have our annual 50-Year Member dinner on Sunday, April 10, at 1 p.m. This will be a joint event with Lodge #150. Our lodge has one honoree: Thomas Kaplan. The event will be at Casa D’Angelo’s at 893 E. Aurora Rd., Macedonia, OH 44056. We were there a few years ago, and everyone enjoyed the food. We’re hoping that we have another great turnout. We will need a RSVP, so please contact me at 216-267-4866 if you are able to join us. RSVPs are needed by April 5.

Our tobogganing event scheduled for February 20 ended up being canceled due to unseasonably warm temperatures. This is two years in a row that a perfect February activity was not able to be completed. Hoping that this trend of warm weather continues.

A reminder that the bowling tournament is fast approaching. If you are interested, please contact Chris Kocin.

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter! See you all soon!

Josie Kmet

LODGE #150CLEVELAND, OH

UPCOMING EVENTSAPR 5Lodge #150’s next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 5, at 6 p.m. The location will be at Brecksville Branch of the Cuyahoga Public Library at 9089 Brecksville Road in Brecksville, OH.

After our April meeting, our next meeting will be held May 3. It will start at 6 p.m. and will remain at the same location. All Lodge #150 members are encouraged to attend these meetings.

50-YEAR MEMBERS RECOGNITION DINNERThe dinner is scheduled for Sunday, April 10, at 1 p.m. at Casa D’Angelo. The address is 893 E. Aurora Rd. Macedonia, OH 44056.

OUR TOWN AND ALL-AROUND DINING (AND MORE) FUNDRAISERWe raised $352 for Youth Development and Programs. Thank you to all who purchased a book.

LODGE UPDATE A huge thank you to everyone who braved the storm in February to make it to our meeting and the Fish Fry that followed. We truly appreciate you going above and beyond by braving the Cleveland weather to be there and contribute to our meeting. You are part of what makes KSKJ Life so great.

Attention! May 7 is our annual Join Hands Day at the Slovenian National Home on St. Clair. Please be there at 10 a.m. Wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty because we will be cleaning the courtyard and parking lot, painting and will possibly spread mulch. Once we are finished working, food will be provided for all volunteers. If you plan on coming to volunteer, please call Ray Zak at 440-376-2553 so we are able to provide enough food for all. We do expect to see all past and current KSKJ Life Educational Grant recipients and hope to see future scholarship winners as well. Volunterism, especially for KSKJ Life, is a huge factor in determining the amount you are awarded for scholarships, so it is important that you attend. All volunteers are welcome whether they are a KSKJ Life member or not.

Due to Join Hands Day, our May 8 meeting will be canceled. Our June meeting on June 12 will be held in the Kenik Room at 12 p.m.

A. Stefani Kurbos

REGION 3CLEVELAND AREA

LODGE #146CLEVELAND, OH

UPCOMING EVENTSAPR 10On Sunday, April 10, we will host our 50-Year Member dinner with Lodge #150.

LODGE UPDATEWinter has continued on. (I hope I don’t jinx us, but we have not had a significant snow event all winter!) And, spring is right around the corner. But my prediction is snow for Easter!

Well, getting back to business. With Easter falling

REGION 1PENNSYLVANIA, CONNECTICUT AND DC

REGION 2CLEVELAND AND EUCLID, OH

LODGE #219EUCLID, OH

LODGE UPDATESt. Christine Lodge #219’s Join Hands project has gotten off to a great start. Roberta Underwood has volunteered to chair our clothing drive for Forbes House in Painesville, and she is doing a great job!

There is a need for children’s clothing at this time, but all clothing will be collected. Help yourself and Forbes House by cleaning out your closets and donating the items to our Join Hands project. You can bring them to our next membership meeting Sunday, April 10, at 1 p.m. in Gateway Manor: 4 Gateway Drive, Euclid, OH. Or, you can also contact Roberta at 440-352-7787. We will also have a collection date in May.

Plans will be finalized for our Corporate Communion Mass and Luncheon to be held May 15 at Saint Robert & William Catholic Church in Euclid. This Mass is being said for all the deceased members of Lodge #219 and all members are invited to attend. Please watch The Voice for more information. We will also be honoring 50-year members at this time.

Elizabeth Kusar

LODGE #226CLEVELAND, OH

UPCOMING EVENTSMAY 7Join Hands Day - Slovenian National Home

JUN 12Monthly meeting at Slovenian National Home at 12 p.m. in the Kenik Room

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTSJOIN HANDS DAY MAY 7 AT THE NASHJoin Hands Day will be held at the NASH on Saturday, May 7. Please contact Tony Peskar if you wish to participate.

SLOVENIAN NATIONAL HOME EVENT - FREE TICKETSIn a continuing effort to promote business and support for the Slovenian National Home E. 80th (NASH), Lodge #150 will donate two tickets (each ticket admits one person) to each bi-monthly 50/50 Raffle. The Raffle occurs the first Wednesday of the month, during the months of April, June, August, October and December. The next two 50/50 raffles are scheduled for April 6 and June 1.

These tickets will be made available every other month. Please contact us for your free tickets.

SAVE THE DATES• July 10: KSKJ Life Four Lodge Picnic.

• August 6: Annual Porky Pig Softball/Pig Roast

Tony & Elaine Peskar, Voice Reporters

REGION 4 JOLIET AREA

UPCOMING JOLIET LODGES EVENTS MAY 24On May 24, the Joliet lodges will have our annual Mass for the feast day of Maria Pomagaj, the patroness of Slovenia and KSKJ Life. Mass is at 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph church in Joliet. A reception will follow in Ferdinand Hall. Everyone is invited for both Mass and reception.

Last year, our Maria Pomagaj Mass booklet was revised. This revised booklet was written so it could be used by any lodge for their own celebration. Fast Printing of Joliet can print more copies if any lodge is interested in holding their own Mass.

Mike Vidmar

JOLIET LODGES UPDATEHello, my friends. Can you believe it’s April already? It seems that the month of March just flew past us. Anyway, I trust everyone had a Happy Easter. So, without further ado, here is what happened at the

some of your time to serve at this event or just come for Sunday morning breakfast, it would be most appreciated.

APR 17We will have a Youth Bowling for members aged 5-17 at Crest Hill Lanes on Theodore Street. Registration begins at noon and three games of bowling, pizza and pop begin at 12:30 p.m. Kids may bring a friend. Adults are welcome to enjoy pizza at a cost of $3 per person.

MAY 1Euchre will be held after the lodge meeting which begins at 11:30 a.m. Please come join in the afternoon fun. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for non-members.

JULY 29We will host our Lodge Steak Fry on this day. Save the date!

LODGE UPDATE Our Chili Cook-Off was held at the lodge meeting on March 6. We enjoyed tasting the six entries. Kathy Lovati was crowned the champion with her recipe. This was Kathy’s first nomination and award, and she wants to thank the Academy! Thanks to all participants who submitted.

Puttin’ it to the taste test! Left to right: Janet Novander, Bernice Ramsak and Joyce Vicich.

last Joliet lodges meeting.

On Tuesday, March 1, the combined Joliet lodges of KSKJ Life held their monthly meeting with 10 members being in attendance.

Congratulations go out to the following people: Philip Petrella and Lodge #143. They were the winners of the 240 Raffle for the month of March.

Once again, members of the Joliet lodges of KSKJ Life participated in the 40 Hours of Devotion, which was held on Saturday, March 19 at St. Joseph Church from noon to 1 p.m.

The Easter Egg Hunt was held on Saturday, March 19, at Haunted Trails in Joliet, IL. You can read more about the event in a future issue of The Voice.

St. Joseph Lodge #2’s Matching Funds Event was held on Good Friday, March 25. The event was a fish fry. Also, St. Joseph Lodge #2 and St. Francis Lodge #29 will be joining forces to have a bowling outing on Sunday, April 17. This will be their ABC event (Alternative Bowling Competition) for the youth.

St. Genevieve Lodge #108 held their annual Ice-Skating and Pizza Party on Sunday, February 14, at the Joliet Park District Ice Arena, which was a very good turnout despite the snowy weather.

The next meeting of the combined Joliet lodges of KSKJ Life will be held on Tuesday, April 5 at 7 p.m., T&C Lanes. As always, all Joliet KSKJ Life members are welcomed to attend. Hope to see you there.

So before I sign off, I leave you with this joke: A duck walks into a drugstore and tells the guy behind the counter: “Give me a ChapStick and put it on my bill.”

Pauline Mihelich, Recording Secretary/Reporter

LODGE #29JOLIET, IL

UPCOMING EVENTS APR 17A Pancake Breakfast will be held at St. Anne’s Church, 1702 Dearborn Street, Crest Hill at 7 a.m. to noon. This will be our 2016 Matching Funds Event. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for kids and children under age three are free. If you can give

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Chili Cook-Off contestants left to right: Mike Vidmar, Joyce Vicich, Chris Zitko, Kathy Lovati, Bob Colman and John Novander.

Welcome to our new members: Terry L. Foster, Joann Larsen, Raymond Papesh and Olivia R. Stefanski.

The next lodge meeting will be on Sunday, May 1, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Joe’s Park. Be sure to read our news in The Voice under Region 4, Lodge #29. And, like us on Facebook: KSKJ Life St. Francis de Sales Lodge #29.

Karen (Ramsak) Colman, Reporter

LLODGE #108JOLIET, IL

LODGE UPDATEOn Sunday, February 14, St. Genevieve Lodge #108 sponsored an ice skating and pizza party for the youth at the Joliet Park District Ice Arena. The event was held from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

There were a total of 33 youths and 42 adults in attendance. A few of the adults who were present tried their luck at skating, too.

Pauline Mihelich, President of Lodge #108 manning the check-in table.

After everyone was done skating, all were welcome to stay and enjoy the pizza and soda pop that was provided. A total of 14 pizzas were devoured—four cheese, four sausage, three pepperoni and three with everything. We also went through seven pitchers of pop, two pitchers of lemonade and two pitchers of water. And, for dessert we had cupcakes provided by Maryann McGinnis and her daughter Katie. Needless to say, the cupcakes all went.

KSKJ Life youth members ice skating.

Members of KSKJ Life eating pizza and socializing.

Since the event fell on Valentine’s Day this year, all of the kids received a plush animal—either a little bear holding two hearts or a plush dog with a heart.

Congratulations to all the winners of the raffle run by MaryLou Stefanick, National Director of Athletics. Thank you, MaryLou, for providing the prizes and bringing some munchies for the kids. It was greatly appreciated.

A big thank you goes to Dan Hinz and his staff for making sure our party was enjoyable. I would also like to thank Maryann McGinnis, our Fraternal Activities Director, and Alan Mihelich, Financial Secretary of St. Genevieve Lodge #108 for all that they did.

Plans for next year’s ice skating and pizza party are already in the works. I hope to see all of you back next year for another fun time.

Pauline Mihelich, Lodge President

LLODGE #143JOLIET, IL

UPCOMING EVENTSAPR 24Gather up your family and friends and come to our Join Hands event. We will be participating in Shorewood Parks’ “Green Up Clean Up” day on Sunday, April 24, from 1 – 3 p.m.

The event will take place at various Shorewood parks. Please meet at Towne Center Park (next to Village Hall off of Rt. 52) at 12:30 p.m. to get supplies and instructions.

“Green Up Clean Up” is Shorewood parks’ annual event celebrating Arbor Day and Earth Day. Projects will include cleaning the parks and bike paths. All skill levels and ages are welcome! Refreshments will be provided at the end of event.

=REGION 5CHICAGO & INDIANAPOLIS

LODGE #52INDIANAPOLIS, IN

UPCOMING EVENTS MAY 1 On May 1, we will host our Annual Communion Breakfast. We will attend 10 a.m. Mass together at Sacred Heart Church. Afterward, we will have our annual breakfast at Madison Grill, which is owned by St. Al’s members Sonny and Toni Cobb!

LODGE UPDATEWe hope all our members are having a fantastic month! Some of our officers went to ArtMix, the recipient of our Matching Funds event. Please check out page five of this issue of The Voice to read a summary of the event. (There are some photos, too!)

On March 19, we hosted our annual children’s Easter Party. This year’s party was held at the Slovenian National Home from 10 a.m. to noon. We had a breakfast with the Easter Bunny and crafts and goodies for the youngsters. More details to

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTSchosen as a partner on our 2016 Matching Funds event. Coincidence? I think not.

Keeping with our lodge’s tradition, we also honored our 2015 Lodge Person of the Year that night. Judy Derra, who was not aware that she had been selected for this award, was surrounded by several family members and close friends as she was recognized for her many years of service to our lodge. She is a former lodge officer, National Convention Delegate, and many of you may know her from KSKJ Life Basketball and Bowling Tournaments. She continues to head up our lodge Christmas party, which is no easy task. She is a lifelong member committed to our organization, and has provided our lodge Membership Committee with a number of leads over the years.

St. Mary Lodge Member of the year Judy Derra is congratulated by our Region 6 Director Pat Slapnick.

Judy Derra (front right) is now part of St. Mary Lodge #79 history as her name was added to the Lodge Person of the Year plaque. Pictured with Judy are past winners of this award. Front row: Kathy Govekar (2010), Mary Chamernik (2008), Albina Opeka (2013). Back row: John Deram (2012), Teri Govekar (2007), Mary Lou Stefanik (2006), Hank Govekar (2011) and David Hammergren (2014). (Sherry Wagner – 2009 – deceased.)

MaryLou Stefanick

refreshments, music and the program. Come enjoy the day! Admission to the park is free. If you need more information, call Mici Bregant at 414-543-6695.

The dates of our next meetings are: April 6, May 4 and June 1. They are held in the Rectory Meeting Room of St. John the Evangelist Church. Please join us and help us keep our lodge active.

Condolences are sent to the family of Bernadine Pauc. Bernadine passed away on November 17, 2015, in Amherst, WI. May she rest in peace.

On March 13, Cole Sebastian received the Highest Award in Scouting: the Eagle Scout Award. Cole is the son of Mike and Kim Sebastian and the Grandson of Frank and Lily Gorenc. Congratulations, Cole! Greetings to all of our sick and shut-ins.

Mici Bregant

LODGE #79WAUKEGAN, IL

LODGE UPDATEOn behalf of St. Mary Lodge #79, we would like to offer our thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of our annual No-Tap Bowling Outing and Matching Funds Prize Raffle event. It was held on Saturday, March 12. This year we partnered with Cristo Rey St. Martin School in Waukegan. (See additional info about our event on page five of The Voice). In addition to bowling and the Prize Raffle, a school supply drive was held. All those attending were asked to bring items previously identified by the school. By the end of the evening, the teachers and staff members present were very appreciative for all of the items that were donated for their students’ day to day use.

School President Preston Kendall shared with us that he was part of the first Cristo Rey School leadership team, which was at St. Stephen’s Parish in Chicago and is a Slovenian Parish with a KSKJ Life involvement. After the startup of that school, he moved on to the Cleveland area, to start up another school. There again, he found himself at a school in a Slovenian Community with KSKJ Life involvement. Now, all these years later, he finds himself connected with yet another KSKJ Life group, as his school is

come in the next issue of The Voice.

May 1 will be our Annual Communion Breakfast. We will attend the 10 a.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Church. Afterward, we will have breakfast at Madison Grill. Please stay tuned to our website for more details.

If you have not done so, be sure to like St. Aloysius on Facebook. We’re posting events and photos regularly. Nasvidenje!

Jennifer Velikan

REGION 6NE ILLINOIS & WISCONSIN

LODGE #65MILWAUKEE, WI

LODGE UPDATEThere is still time for you to get your entries in for the Charles Mouradian/Debbie Nowak 9-Pin Tap Bowling Tournament. Help us make this a great event. Remember that all proceeds benefit our lodge’s Educational Grant Program, which in turn benefits our high school graduates.

The event will be hosted at the New Berlin Ale House and Bowling Lanes, 16000 W. Cleveland Ave. on Sunday, April 17. It will begin at 11 a.m. and the cost is $30 per person. The ticket includes bowling, shoes, pizzas, soda and a donation to the Educational Grant Fund. If you don’t bowl, you can be a spectator!

The Zbor Spendov from Lemont will be presenting a concert of Slovenian Music on Saturday, April 16, at 7 p.m. in the St. John the Evangelist Church Hall. The chorus will also be singing for the 4:30 p.m. Mass. Zadnja Kapla will play for your dancing and listening pleasure following the concert. This is a free program, but there will be a cash bar. Come and enjoy the evening with us.

The USPEH Organization, of which our lodge is a member, will be commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the Independence of Slovenia on July 26. This special event will be held at beautiful Triglav Park. It will begin with an outdoor Mass followed by a delicious chicken dinner, plenty of

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Here is a picture of our jolly kitchen crew from Lodge #59’s Apple-Stuffed French Toast Breakfast: Ron Erjavec, Teresa Lavigne, Gloria Leseman, Evalene Britton, Bob and Barb Mavec and Jennifer Menart.

Bob Mavec, representing Lodge #59, presents a check for $500 to Rosemary Mattson, Director of the Quad City Food Shelf. During the month of March, the Food Share Program of the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches partially matches donations to area food shelves.

LODGE #171DELUTH, MN

UPCOMING EVENTS APR 10Our next lodge meeting will be held on April 10 at 11 a.m. Our lodge will also be hosting the Minnesota Federation meeting at 1 p.m. on the same date.

APR 15Annual Bowling Tourney at Skylines Lanes from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. You need not be a bowler to participate. Guests are most welcome. The cost for non-members is $10 for bowling and pizza, or $6 for pizza only. RSVP to Barb Larson by April 10 at 715-398-5693.

Supporting Soldiers Campaign. A list of needed items can be donated and will be sent to Military Missions. The charitable organization’s mission is to support and honor deployed military personnel by sending care packages as an expression of gratitude and appreciation. More information will be in The Voice and in the flyer being sent out for our Annual Dinner. I would really like to see Lodge #144 participate this year.

Pat Slapnick, President

REGION 7MINNESOTA & MICHIGAN

REGIONAL UPDATEThe second quarterly Minnesota Federation of KSKJ Life Lodges dinner will be held on April 10 at 1 p.m. at St. Elizabeth’s Church in West Duluth. Call Sharon Bucar to make your reservations a week ahead of time. Her phone number is 218-626-1928.

LODGE #59EVELETH, MN

LODGE UPDATESts. Cyril and Methodius Lodge #59 will be teaming up with Care Partners for a Matching Funds Event on Wednesday, April 20. The event is the Annual Swedish Meatball Dinner, and it will be held at the Mt. Iron Community Center in Mountain Iron, MN, from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. The cost is $9 per person and children five and under are free. Care Partners is an Iron Range non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to individuals and families facing cancer or a life-limiting illness. If you have any questions about this event, please contact Heidi Coldagelli, Lodge #59 Fraternal Activities Coordinator, at 218-741-7765.

LODGE #144SHEBOYGAN, WI

LODGE UPDATEOn March 5, seven juvenile members along with four adults participated in the Annual Family Bowling event. After bowling was completed, pizza was served. Thank you Tammy Miller, Fraternal Activities Director, for organizing the event. Next year we hope to get more bowlers.

On May 7 at 9 a.m., we are scheduled to host our Join Hands Project at Greendale Cemetery. We need your help! We want to get the cemetery looking nice for Memorial Day. It would be nice to see some of the students that get financial aid from the lodge to join us. You can get service hours for the National Educational Grants or any church hours needed for Confirmation. Please bring gardening equipment such as lawn clippers, rakes, etc. In case of rain, we will work on May 14.

College-age students will soon be receiving information and applications for the lodge financial aid awards given to students who qualify. Students attending college, universities or technical schools on a full-time basis can receive a monetary gift from the lodge. The deadline for application submission is May 15.

YALC is being held at Wisconsin Dells from July 18 – 20. It is for youth from age 18 – 25 years of age. It would really be nice to see some Wisconsin members attend. Since our National Youth & Adult Activities Director, National Director of Athletics and Region 6 Director all are from Wisconsin, it would be a shame if we do not get representation from our area. Call Pat Slapnick 920-458-1469 for more information.

On August 21, the lodge will be celebrating our 105th Anniversary of Lodge # 144 at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Information about the event will be sent out shortly, so mark your calendars. We would like to see a large number of people present. At the dinner, our 50-year members will be honored and the Financial Aid Awards will be given out. If you have any questions, please call Pat Slapnick.

Last year, 17 KSKJ Life lodges joined in the

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTSorganization would appreciate any support KSKJ Life members across North America can give. For more information, please visit www.ase-fund.org.

Diana Fir Gremett

OTHER NEWS & NOTES

SEND IN YOUR LODGE UPDATE Please remember to send in all lodge news and events to voice@kskjlife.com by the second Friday of each month. Additionally, feel free to submit feature articles of interest for consideration.

FIND US ON SOCIAL Join the conversation with other members on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #kskjlife.

educators globally. The Foundation offers a variety of high-impact grant and endowment programs, teaching and learning materials, as well as foreign exchange of students and faculty. Our goal is to provide American businesses opportunities to invest and expand their presence in Slovenia and other central and eastern European countries.

Prof. Dr. Ronald M. Šega was the recipient of the 2016 ASEF Lifetime Achievement Award. The award was given for unwavering and exemplary leadership in furthering educational opportunity internationally. Ronald M. Šega is a Professor of Systems Engineering at Colorado State University and a former astronaut aboard space shuttles Discovery and Atlantis. Dr. Šega was born in Cleveland, OH, and he is of Slovene origin.

Paul Kaiser and Rudy Krasovec.

Slovenian Ambassador Tom Brandi with award recipient Dr. Šega.

Mr. Rudy Krasovec and Mr. Paul Kaiser represented KSKJ Life at this event and met with members of our lodge to offer their support and services. KSKJ Life is one of the sponsors of ASEF, and the

MAY 7Join Hands Day Project: Clean up grounds around Stowe Elementary School and St. Elizabeth Church. Members: Please bring gloves and meet at 9 a.m. at the school.

Sharon Bucar

LODGE #196GILBERT, MN

UPCOMING EVENTS MAY 13 & 14On May 13 & 14, we will be hosting our Matching Funds Event, the Garden ”Junktique” Sale. It will be held at the Friends of Olcott Greenhouse on 712 N. 9th Ave. in West Virginia, MN.

REGION 8COLORADO, CALIFORNIA, MONTANA & KANSAS

LODGE #7 & #104PUEBLO, CO

UPCOMING EVENTSAPR 28St. Joseph Lodge #7 and Immaculate Conception Lodge #104’s Matching Funds Event will be a Community Breakfast called, “Soul of the Community Breakfast.” This event will benefit Pueblo Catholic Charities. It will be held on April 28 at Old Town Carriage House on 102 S. Victoria Ave. in Pueblo, CO.

Questions? Contact Danny Golob at 719-250-9805.

LODGE #236SAN FRANCISCO, CA

LODGE UPDATEOn Sunday evening, February 28, 2016, ASEF (American Slovenian Education Foundation) celebrated its third gala dinner at the majestic St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. This wonderful foundation, created by Father Peter Rozic and Jure Leskovec, aims to enhance American and Slovenian education activities, uniting Slovenian scholars and

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