VOLUME 126—NO.12

ISSN 1524-4407

DECEMBER 2016

A MESSAGE FROM KSKJ LIFE’S SPIRITUAL ADVISOR:

IN THIS ISSUE

CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS It's hard to believe that we are already in the Christmas season. SiriusXM Radio starts playing Christmas carols in November. Perhaps everyone is more than ready for something joyful, colorful, peaceful and happy. Christmas is surely a time for family, for giving and for celebrating. After all, the birth of Jesus changed the world forever. The world has never been the same, not only for Christians but for people of all religions. Jesus did die for everyone and also promised the Kingdom to them. So what are your plans to make this Christmas a special one that you will remember for a long, long time? I am suggesting that at the very least this be a religious moment for you and your family. Perhaps you and your family might reflect on those who will not be as fortunate as you. Maybe you might want to take on a particular project that the whole family engages in and, as a result, someone or some family might experience the joy of your gift. We know there is more joy in giving, as Jesus spent his life teaching this. I pray that your Christmas holiday is filled with much joy and happiness. Your faith in God and in KSKJ Life, especially in the values it stands for, will brighten your lives as do all the Christmas decorations you and your family will view. Let others see the joy that is in you. Saint Mother Teresa said a “joyful heart is like the sunshine of God's love, the hope of eternal happiness."

God bless you at this time. And, in the words of Robert Schuller, “God loves you and so do I.” "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given...And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6

REV RICHARD GIELOW C.M. KSKJ Life Spiritual Advisor

HOME OFFICE UPDATES Page 2

KSKJ LIFE SPONSORS FILM PREMIERE Page 3

2016 - 2017 EDUCATIONAL GRANT WINNERS Page 3

THREE WAYS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR END OF ANNUITY TERM 1-800-THE-KSKJ KSKJLIFE.COM

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LODGE NEWS Page 6

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THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

UPDATES FROM THE KSKJ LIFE HOME OFFICE ATHLETIC UPDATES

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MIDWEST REGIONAL BOWLING TOURNAMENT

Thanks to everyone who attended the Midwest Regional Bowling Tournament that was held November 5 and 6 in Joliet, IL at Town and Country Lanes. It was a weekend filled with fellowship and fun!

family members, friends, or as a lodge event! Just go bowling! Like last year, the competition is open to all youth members. There are two divisions: straight bowling and bumper bowling. The contest will run from December 1 through the end of April. Random winners from each division will be selected at the end of the ABC.

ABC – EASY AS 1-2-3!

1. Go to the bowling center of your choice. 2. Bowl either straight bowling or bumper bowling. 3. After bowling, enter your information on the Athletics page of our website. You can bowl as many games during this time period as you like, but only submit your information one time.

Members from Indianapolis, Joliet and Waukegan hit the lanes for the Midwest Regional Bowling Tournament in Joliet, IL.

Winners from each division will be randomly selected at the end of the tournament, based on the number of participants. Results will be posted on the website and in The Voice.

STEPPING UP WINNERS

compliments of the Stepping Up with KSKJ Life program. Presenting the winners with their prize is MaryLou Stefanick, National Athletics Director.

FRATERNAL UPDATES

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KSKJ LIFE SERVICE AWARD

Do you know a member who goes the “extra mile” when it comes to volunteering? If so, please consider nominating him/her for the 2016 KSKJ Life Service Award. KSKJ Life is accepting online nominations for this award through December 31. Any KSKJ Life member (age 13 and older) who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service and volunteerism in his or her community can be nominated. The person submitting the nomination must be a KSKJ Life member as well. The honoree will be chosen in January 2017 and KSKJ Life will make a $250 donation to the charity of his/her choice. Visit kskjlife.com and select “Service Award” under Membership to complete a nomination.

SUPPORTING SOLDIERS

This year’s Supporting Soldiers Campaign will be “Socks for Soldiers.” In conjunction with lodge events and Christmas parties, we encourage lodges to participate in this mission to collect brand new packs of crew socks for our men and women soldiers.

A family that bowls together, stays together. The Vicic family of St. Francis Lodge #29 in Joliet came out in full force for the bowling tournament.

In addition, any monetary donations will be matched per dollar (maximum $100 per member) up to $10,000 to this year’s charitable organization, Operation Care Packages. Any donated funds can be mailed to the Home Office marked “Supporting Soldiers” and a one-time donation of the total collected funds will be delivered to Operation Care Packages.

2017 NATIONAL BOWLING TOURNAMENT

Mark your calendars! The 2017 KSKJ Life National Bowling Tournament will take place April 22-23, 2017, in Waukegan, IL. More information will follow on the website and in future issues of The Voice.

Collected socks can be shipped directly to the organization at: Operation Care Packages 120 Jessie St., Box 175, Manhattan, IL 60442. If participating, Socks for Soldiers/Charitable Giving Award Forms are due by no later than January 11, 2017 to the Home Office.

ABC BOWLING TOURNAMENT

The ABC, Alternative Bowling Competition, will be back for its fourth 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

Supporting Soldiers flyers can be found on our website under the Activities tab. Dan Draus of New Lenox, IL, and Katie Starasincich of Crest, IL, were the lucky recipients of a Fitbit,

THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2016 - 2017 EDUCATIONAL GRANT WINNERS! HIGH SCHOOL RECIPIENTS Joseph Ambrozich - Lodge #108, Joliet Catholic Academy Abigail Bartlett - Lodge #25, Gilmour Academy Kerry Devine - Lodge #115, St James Academy Marc Godec - Lodge #7, St. Mary's High School Nicholas Kosir - Lodge #226, University School Kayla Pintar - Lodge # 226, Notre Dame Cathedral-Latin Zoe Tezak - Lodge #108, Seabury Hall Kyle Zupec - Lodge #53, Loyola Academy

Natalie Crtalic - Lodge #226, Bowling Green State University Nicole Deverich - Lodge #7, Colorado State University - Pueblo Molly Devine - Lodge #115, University of Saint Mary Matthew Dietz - Lodge #144, University of Wisconsin La Crosse Caitlyn Dore - Lodge #170, Moraine Valley Community College Carolyn Dreyer - Lodge #25, Walsh University Ryan Drobnik - Lodge #2, Northern Illinois University Anna Emling - Lodge #25, Kent State University

COLLEGE RECIPIENTS Melissa Aharrah - Lodge #29, The American University of Paris

Marisa Finazzo - Lodge #169, Notre Dame College Michaela Fossberg - Lodge #108, DePaul University

Dania Albin - Lodge #52, Indiana University

Anthony Gersick - Lodge #7, Western State Colorado University

Caroline Allen - Lodge #300, University of Wyoming

Taylor Gibson - Lodge #2, Providence College

Katherine Allen - Lodge #300, Casper College

Aleyna Goerlitz - Lodge #136, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse

Kylie Ansorge - Lodge #236, University of Nevada, Reno

Collin Graf - Lodge #59, Michigan Tech

Nicholas Bilski - Lodge #226, McNally Smith College of Music Alan Borcic - Lodge #7, Metropolitan State University of Denver Alyssa Burns - Lodge #2, Pacific University Lindsay Cabay - Lodge #2, Lewis University Graduate Program Christopher Cervi - Lodge #7, Colorado School of Mines Dominic Cevasco - Lodge #110, Ohio State University Natalie Cevasco - Lodge #110, The Ohio State University - Mansfield Machala Comenschek - Lodge #169, Cleveland State University Makaya Corral - Lodge #79, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

Jacob Halstead - Lodge #65, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Hannah Jarrell - Lodge #150, Bowling Green State University Kendra Jones - Lodge #7, Oregon State University

KSKJ LIFE SPONSORS FILM PREMIERE KSKJ Life proudly sponsored the “Forging the West” film premiere that took place on November 11 in Pueblo, CO. Rudy Krasovec, KSKJ Life Chair of the Board, was one of approximately 600 guests in attendance at the event. The one-hour documentary from the Emmy award-winning team of HaveyPro Cinema focuses on the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company (CF&I). The following is an excerpt about the film courtesy of forgingthewestfilm. com: "The Colorado Fuel and Iron Company (CF&I) began production in 1872 and grew to become the largest steel mill in the western United States and a firm of enormous importance to the industrialization of the American west. As the first steel mill west of the Mississippi River, CF&I also played a pivotal role in the tumultuous history of American labor relations. By the turn of the 20th century, the company was the largest private landowner and the largest employer in Colorado. CF&I mines and mining towns operated throughout the west, while subsidiary companies stretched from Massachusetts to California. Its mills in Pueblo, CO provided iron and steel products for agriculture, transportation, mining and other industries critical to western development. The company fueled immigration of ethnic groups to work in its mines and mills, playing an important cultural role in diversifying a burgeoning population."

Ryan Kambic - Lodge #42, Millersville University James Kaye - Lodge #65, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Courtney Kernc - Lodge #169, The University of Cincinnati Amanda Kilway - Lodge #110, Heidelberg University Courtney Kilway - Lodge #110, Walsh University Jenna Kohlmayer - Lodge #146, University of Cincinnati Caitlin Konopek - Lodge #29, Loras College

Photo courtesy of Denver Public Library.

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THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

MEMBER MEMBER MEMORIAL MEMORIAL Our prayers go out to the families of our recently

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2016 - 2017 EDUCATIONAL GRANT WINNERS!

passed members. Claims have been paid and a donation to the KSKJ Life Educational Grant Fund has been made on behalf of each.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2016 Betty Bigalke - Lodge #197, Little Falls, MN Guy Caranfa - Lodge #50, Verona, PA John Coler - Lodge #63, Columbiana, OH Mary Beth Derikito - Lodge #226, Sullivan, OH Raymond Dutchman - Lodge #110, Norton, OH Louis Ethridge - Lodge #624, Bailey, MS Mary Garrett - Lodge #219, Brookfield, OH Charlotte Guagenti - Lodge #44, Glen Ellyn, IL Sandra L. Hecimovich - Lodge #136, Ashland, WI Dennis Highlander - Lodge #63, Bellevue, OH Bessie Koch - Lodge #50, Allison Park, PA Elizabeth Marocco - Lodge #108, Braceville, IL Arthur Mekic - Lodge #50, Latrobe, PA

Nicholas Konopek - Lodge #29, Marquette University

Patrick Sierzega - Lodge #1, St. Ambrose

Natalie Kosir - Lodge #226, Ithaca College

Andrew Smathers - Lodge #226, University of Pittsburgh

Shane Kosir - Lodge 226, University of Dayton Jacob Kozak - Lodge #169, Notre Dame College Brandt Krasovic - Lodge #7, Texas Tech University Mikenna Krasovic - Lodge #7, Colorado State University- Pueblo Woodrow Kromar - Lodge #59, Winona State University Keith Leable - Lodge #53, University of WisconsinMilwaukee Grace Lobato - Lodge #7, Colorado State University-Pueblo Madelynn Lozinski - Lodge #59, College of Saint Scholastica

Sarah Skrutskie - Lodge #2, Cornell University

James Snyder - Lodge #146, Northeast Catholic College William Snyder - Lodge #146, University of Alabama in Huntsville Jacob Spehar - Lodge #171, Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College Suntina Spehar - Lodge #171, College of St. Scholastica Jacob Spender - Lodge #144, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee Colette Starasinich - Lodge #29, Ave Maria University Sean Studer - Lodge #108, University of Wisconsin-Platteville

Lorraine Moon - Lodge #108, Joliet, IL

Nicholas Lozinski - Lodge #59, Hamline University

Tou Moua - Lodge #612, St. Paul, MN

Scott Lyman - Lodge #2, McKendree University

Lawrence Perry Jr. - Lodge #20, Detroit, MI

Rachel Markoya - Lodge #148, Stevenson University

Anthony Supan - Lodge #150, University of Cincinnati

Grace Matonis - Lodge #63, St. Andrews University

Rebecca Supan - Lodge #150, Xavier University

John Pucin - Lodge #53, Lake Forest, IL Theresa Pucko - Lodge #196, Circle Pines, MN Louise Ruettiger - Lodge #143, Shorewood, IL Leopold Ruiz - Lodge #1, Moline, IL Rene Stevenson - Lodge #620, Temple, AZ Pauline Stubbs - Lodge #20, Hesperia, MI Carol Worden - Lodge #20, Lowell, MI

Makayla Miks - Lodge #53, The University of Minnesota Josef Nelson - Lodge #65, University of Colorado Boulder Joseph Niedzwiecki - Lodge #197, Alexandria Technical Community College Kristina O'Brien - Lodge #59, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

IN MEMORY OF

Lauren Paskey - Lodge #226, University of Cincinnati

Robert Grazier - Wadsworth, IL Mr. & Mrs. Robert Grampovnik, $50

Ellen Robinson - Lodge #169, Cleveland State University

Lois Ruth - New Cumberland, PA - Lodge #42 St. Aloysius Lodge #42, $10

Cole Sebastian - Lodge #65, University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

William M. Starsinic - Steelton, PA - Lodge #42 St. Aloysius Lodge #42, $10

Ellen Shephard - Lodge #42, Muhlenberg College Ian Sierzega - Lodge #1, University of IllinoisChicago

Troy Suazo - Lodge #7, Colorado State UniversityPueblo

Michael Tomc - Lodge #169, Lakeland Community College Bradley Vojtkofsky - Lodge #169, Cuyahoga Community College Jeff Wilson - Lodge #171, Waubonsee Community College Nicholas Wilson - Lodge #171, Truman State University

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR WINNERS! WE APPLAUD YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR HARD WORK. BEST OF LUCK TO YOU IN THE NEW YEAR!

THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

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THREE WAYS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR END OF ANNUITY TERM Coming to the end of an annuity term? We’re lending our advice to help walk you through the process. Depending on your type of annuity coverage, there are many ways to prepare for the end of your term. Here is some insight for whichever route you choose.

in other words, annuitize. Annuitizing means you can turn over your contract to your provider and in return, receive payments for a certain period of time. These payments depend on your age and preferred payment option.

1. RENEW YOUR CURRENT PLAN

3. CONVERTING INTO ANOTHER PRODUCT

If you are content with your annuity plan, you have the option to renew. Most of the time, you can keep the money you invested in your account for as long as you’d like, with the option to decide where you want to move it later. This provides flexibility with your funds without any surrender penalties.

2. ANNUITIZING COVERAGE

Typically, there is an option for you to turn your deferred annuity into a lifetime income stream or,

If you are coming to the end of your annuity and are thinking about cashing out your money, ask yourself the following questions first: “What are my plans with the cash from this annuity?” and “Where do I want my funds to go?” Maybe you would like to transfer the funds to your children tax-free. Your KSKJ Life agent can discuss the different options you have available.

TAKING THE NEXT STEP

Finding the right annuity plan to fit your current life stage is essential. And, choosing how to prepare for the end of your annuity term is just as important. When deciding your next steps, evaluate your current situation, and talk to your KSKJ Life agent. Weigh all of your options and consider what your next stage of life may be.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON KSKJ LIFE ANNUITY PLANS, CONTACT YOUR AGENT OR CALL 1-800-843-5755.

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THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTS REGION 1

For the adults, we will be having our annual Ugly Sweater Contest! Don't forget to come all decked out.

PENNSYLVANIA, CONNECTICUT AND DC

LODGE #50 PITTSBURGH, PA

Looking forward to seeing you at the Christmas Party. Holiday greetings to all of our sick and shut-in members and their families. Vesele Bozic Praznike - Merry Christmas!

LODGE UPDATE

Our annual Children’s Christmas Party will be held on Sunday, December 11 from 12-3 p.m. at Funfest/Zone 28 in Harmerville, PA. Please RSVP no later than Sunday, December 4 to Ashley at [email protected] or to Al (412-487-2492) or Bob (724-443-6830). Instead of a toy drive this year, we are going to be collecting items for the Jared Box Project. The goal of the Jared Box Project is to lift the spirits of children in the hospital. Jared Boxes provide a special diversion for young patients in the emergency rooms, patient rooms, surgical centers and clinics as they receive medical treatments. The Jared Box is a plastic storage box filled with small gifts, toys, games and fun activities. We are going to be collecting for children under two and 11 and older. Gift ideas for children two and under would be bibs, rattles, soft books, teething rings, booties, pacifiers, sippy cups or bottles. Gift ideas for children 11 and older would include electronic games, word search/crossword puzzles, books, playing cards, craft kits, brain teaser games, journals, art supplies, nail polish, stress balls, travelsized board games. We will also be participating in the Socks for Soldiers Campaign, benefiting Operation Care Package, collecting new black and white crew socks.

KSKJ VOICE OFFICIAL 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

Srabane, Houston and the Canonsburg areas. We have participated in this food drive at our annual Christmas Party for more than eight years and have collected an enormous amount of items. We will have food, door prizes, gifts, 50/50 raffle, entertainment by Frank and Darryl Valencic, and Santa will arrive also.

Beverly J. Pleskovich Rosselle, Financial Secretary

Lodge #50 member Isabella Jean Schiemer happily shows that she has turned one! Proud grandparents are Robert J. Lokar, Jr. and Nancy Lokar. Ashley Mikulan

LODGE #153 STRABANE, PA

UPCOMING EVENTS

DEC 4 Lodge #153's Adult/Children’s Christmas Party will be held at St. Jerome Lodge #153 lodge hall at the corner of Alexander Avenue and Chartiers Street in Strabane from 1-5 p.m. Call Beverly Rosselle at 724-873-0914 for details. The cost is $10 for nonmembers. Members are free. We would appreciate it if everyone would bring a canned food item, any type of non-perishable item or paper product as we will again hold the food drive. These items will be donated to the Canonsburg/Houston Food Pantry, which serves

Life members and for $20 a year to other subscribers. Periodicals postage paid in Joliet, IL and additional mailing offices. Publisher: KSKJ Life Managing Editor: Tony Mravle, Jr. Articles for publication should be sent directly to [email protected].

REGION 2 CLEVELAND AREA

LODGE #25 CLEVELAND, OH

LODGE UPDATE

St. Vitus Lodge #25 will have our annual meeting on Sunday, December 11 at 1 p.m. in the church basement. Following the meeting, we will have our Christmas party, which will start at approximately 2 p.m. As always, I am asking our members to try their best to attend as we will have our election of officers, and we are asking our younger members to consider becoming an officer. St. Vitus Lodge #25 is 118 years old, and we would like to see it thrive for many more years to come. Our next meeting will be January 8 at the Village at 11:30 a.m. Our annual 50 year honoree dinner will be on Sunday, February 5 with dinner at noon. Anyone planning to attend, please call me, John Turek, at 216-531-0230 and let me know how many

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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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTS will be attending. The deadline to RSVP is January 30. This is necessary to advise the cook. See you at the meeting.

Our next meeting will be Sunday, January 8, 2017 at 1 p.m. in Gateway Manor, Community Room on Gateway Drive in Euclid, OH.

John C. Turek, Secretary

Elizabeth Kusar

LODGE #169 CLEVELAND, OH

LODGE #226 CLEVELAND, OH

Our annual meeting for St. Joseph Lodge #169 will be Thursday, December 15, at 6:30 p.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Collinwood Slovenian Home on Holmes Avenue. We will elect our officers for 2017 and begin planning events for next year, including our first Matching Funds event in the spring.

JAN 8 Our New Year’s meeting will begin at noon. This meeting will also be the installation of new lodge officers.

Join us for our youth and adult Christmas party on Sunday, December 11, at St. Mary's parish hall in Collinwood. Festivities begin at 3 p.m. and will include music, a sing-along, food, beverages and Santa Claus. Call me at 216-541-7243 or e-mail [email protected] if you have any questions. A merry and blessed Christmas season to you all!

Erika Kurbos

John Nemec, Fraternal Activities Coordinator

LODGE #219 EUCLID, OH

LODGE UPDATE

Reservations are a must if you plan on attending Saint Christine's Lodge #219 Christmas Luncheon on Sunday, December 11 in the Dubrovnik Garden Restaurant located at 34900 Lake Shore Blvd in Eastlake, OH. Please send $5 for each member and your one guest to Joanne Ash at 7709 Joseph Street, Kirtland, OH 44094 by December 4. Other guests may attend the luncheon at a cost of $15. The Christmas party is free to all. Please bring a new wrapped gift for our raffle. Our Christmas project for the military is collecting new crew socks, black or white, to be distributed by Operation Care Packages. If you wish to donate please bring them to the party. The business meeting will begin at 12. We will have our election of officers and information on events and dates for 2017. Please try to attend.

With the holiday season upon us, please remember to be thankful for all you have and share the spirit of Christ with all you encounter. Please keep all of our members in your thoughts and prayers, especially during this time of year. Vesel božič in srečno novo leto - Merry Christmas and Happy New year!

UPCOMING EVENTS

LODGE UPDATE

meeting and confirm details at our January meeting. Any suggestions for group events are appreciated.

The Lodge Officers and members of Christ the King Lodge #226 would like to wish everyone a blessed Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

REGION 3 CLEVELAND AREA

LODGE #63 CLEVELAND, OH

Jean Marincic

LODGE #146

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CLEVELAND, OH

LODGE UPDATE

The cooler weather has finally arrived in Cleveland. As many of us were looking forward to the Indians parade, they went on an unfortunate losing streak due to injuries, and the depleted starting rotation caught up with them. But what an emotional roller coaster they put us through! Unfortunately for me, I happen to work with a bunch of Chicago natives who had to gloat. But, now that has passed, and we are thinking ahead to Christmas and the holidays. Can you believe it?

LODGE UPDATE

Lodge-wise, we will have our election of officers on Sunday, December 4 at 12:15 p.m. This meeting will be short, as we will do our election of officers, sign off on some paperwork, and firm up our activities for the first quarter of next year. We're unsure about our menu items as of right now, but there will be plenty of Christmas goodies to enjoy. Santa will be there, and the lanes will be available for those interested in bowling.

We will be sponsoring a Matching Funds event on Wednesday, December 7 at 7 p.m. at the Slovenian National Home, benefiting the Slovenian Home General Improvement Fund. There will be dinner and music at the event along with a 50/50 raffle. The 50/50 raffle is open to all, and our lodge will have a limited number of tickets available at no cost to our members. We only ask that you attend the event and help make it as successful as possible. For tickets, contact me (Jean Marincic) at 440-7813075 by December 5.

We don't have a firm date yet in mind, but in early January we will do our annual member dinner. This will be at Harry's Steakhouse. If interested, please call me at 216-267-4866 after the Christmas party for final details.

St. Lawrence Lodge #63 will be hosting its annual meeting with election of officers Sunday, December 4, 2016 at noon with our annual Children’s Christmas party immediately following. Keeping in line with the organization as a unit, we will be collecting Socks for Soldiers. We ask all that attend the Christmas party and/or annual meeting to bring a pack of socks to be sent to our soldiers.

The 2017 calendar of events is in the works, and we will touch on what is planned so far at the annual

We will be participating the Socks for Soldiers campaign as well, so please bring a pack or two. Josie Kmet

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTS LODGE #150 CLEVELAND, OH

UPCOMING EVENTS

Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, December 4 at noon at the Slovenian National Home - E.80th (NASH) located at 3563 East 80th Street, Cleveland, OH 44105. During the December meeting we will hold the election of officers for 2017. Our annual Christmas party will follow at 1 p.m. All Lodge #150 members are encouraged to attend this meeting.

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK

Lodge #150 now has a new Facebook page to share lodge news, events, photos and other information. Check us out at www.facebook.com/KSKJ150 You do not have to be a Facebook member to view the page.

LODGE EMAIL ADDRESS

The Lodge #150 email address for Financial Secretary, Liz Jones is: [email protected].

SLOVENIAN NATIONAL HOME EVENT FREE TICKETS

In 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 (occurring the first Wednesday of the month, during the months of April, June, August, October and December). The next 50/50 raffle in 2016 is scheduled for December 7, 2016. These tickets will be made available every other month. Please contact us for your free tickets.

OUR TOWN AND ALL-AROUND TOWN BOOKS FUNDRAISER

Lodge #150 will sell Our Town and All-Around Town Books again this year. Proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit Lodge #150 Youth Programs and Development. The cost of the books will remain the same as last year at $28. To order books and/ or for additional information contact Tony Peskar: [email protected] or 440-915-8312 The Officers of Lodge #150 extend best wishes for a most Joyous and Blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Tony & Elaine Peskar

REGION 4 JOLIET AREA

JOLIET LODGES UPDATE

Greetings everyone. I trust that everyone had a Happy Halloween and a Happy Thanksgiving. Now that Halloween and Thanksgiving has passed us by, Christmas will be here before you know it. At least I do not have to buy too many gifts this year! I could go on but I won’t. Anyway, here is a recap of what happened at the last Joliet KSKJ Life meeting. On Tuesday, November 1, 2016, the combined Joliet KSKJ Life Lodges held their monthly meeting with 10 members present. Congratulations go out to the following winners of the “240” raffle. The October “240” raffle winners were Jim Klick of St. John’s Lodge #143. The November “240” raffle winners were Holly Tomashek and Marla Lustik. December will be the last chance to win for 2016; then we will do it all over again in 2017. And while I’m on the subject of raffles, next year’s raffle will be different. Instead of having a “240” raffle, it has been restructured to a “200” raffle, which will go toward the youth and sports activities. The cost of the tickets will be $10 each. And each month there will be two $50 winners. Prior to the next meeting of the combined Joliet KSKJ Life lodges, members will meet at 6 p.m. at T&C Lanes to stuff Christmas cards that will be sent to the 80 and over KSKJ Life members this year. There will be pizza and pop for the members who show up to help with this project. Also, nominations and election of officers for the ensuing year will be held at our December meeting on Tuesday, December 6 at 7 p.m. at T&C Bowling Lanes. The next Joliet KSKJ Life lodges meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at 7 p.m. at T&C Lanes. As always, all are welcome to attend. On behalf of all the Joliet Lodges officers, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Pauline Mihelich, Recording Secretary/Reporter

LODGE #2

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JOLIET, IL

UPCOMING EVENTS

DEC 5 Brunch Meeting at 1 p.m. at St. Joseph Park’s Legion Room. JAN 8 Installation Brunch Meeting at 1 p.m. at St. Joseph Park’s Legion Room. RSVP by contacting Sylvia Churnovic at 815-353-1161 by January 1, 2017. Lodge #2 officers would like to wish all of our members a most happy and safe holiday season. Merry Christmas! For lodge news, visit our Facebook page by searching for "KSKJ St. Joseph Lodge #2." Also, if you would like to be placed on our lodge’s email blast list, email Lynn Miller at lynnderella3@gmail. com.

LODGE #29

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JOLIET, IL

LODGE UPDATE

The Regional Bowling Tournament was held in Joliet, IL on the weekend of November 5-6. A big thank you to Mario and Melissa Medved for organizing this event, which was missed last year and brought back for all to enjoy. Big John Churnovic and his polka band entertained after bowling on Saturday night. A good time was had by all.

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTS January 8, 2017, at 176 West Banquet Facility, 1100 NE Frontage Road in Joliet, IL. Cocktails begin at noon followed by a short meeting at 12:30 p.m. and then lunch at 1 p.m. The cost is $10 per St. Francis member, $16 per non-member, $5 per child ages 4-12 and free for children three and under. A cash bar will be available. Please RSVP to Judy Corum by December 31: 815-725-3553 or jmcorum@ ameritech.net. You can mail your check to Judy at 117 N. Reed Street, Joliet, IL 60435. No RSVP or payment will be accepted at the door. Merry Christmas to you and yours! Karen (Ramsak) Colman, Reporter

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LODGE #108 JOLIET, IL

Babushka Barb Aharrah wins the basket of cherries at the Midwest Bowling Tournament, perhaps for making pies, tarts, scones, etc... My daughter and member, Alison Colman, is the luckiest duck! She has a girlfriend who works for the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs and was able to attend the parade and festivities as a guest. Upon returning to Wrigley Field in the afternoon, she was able to have a picture taken with the World Series trophy, which she claims is very heavy. She has been a Cubs fan her whole life. What a wonderful (maybe once in a lifetime) experience for Ali.

LODGE UPDATE

On Sunday, December 4St. Genevieve Lodge #108 will hold its annual Christmas party at Al’s Steak House, located at 1990 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, starting at 1 p.m. Please contact me (Pauline Mihelich) at 815-521-9317 with any questions. Once again, members are asked to bring a staple of canned goods, which will be donated to the Guardian Angel Home for battered women. Or, if you wish, a cash donation will be acceptable. We will be honoring members with 50 years of continuous membership with St. Genevieve Lodge #108 at the Christmas party. Also, we will be holding nominations and election of officers for the coming year (2017).

jobs, new family members, engagements, weddings and a few funerals. Every year around this time, I like to look back and reflect on the changes that have occurred—not only the visible ones, but the personal growth and changes, too. It is also time to make those New Year’s resolutions. The past few years I have taken it easy. My resolution has simply just been to try and be a better human being, becoming more open, kind and loving to everyone around me. It is a simple resolution but on some days I find it a hard one to follow through on. Our world today is one full of anger and violence, and some days it is easy to feed into that. So I would like to challenge everyone this year to add one more resolution to your list. Try to be a better human being, or a little shining light in this dark world of ours. You already have a head start on most people with the events and activities put together by your lodge. I simply urge you to participate. If you already participate, maybe join the committee to plan something. We can all do our part to make the world a more loving and peaceful place. Here is a recap of our 2016 events in Lodge #44. We just had our Matching Funds project benefiting the American Legion Illiana Post 220, which consisted of our Four Winds Casino Trip and raffle. Congratulations to the winners: Ray Lukas, Kathy Lovati, Marine Nadrajonski, Colleen Naglem and Eddie Marco. Thank you to everyone who helped or participated. A big thank you to Kathy Lovati for all your help. We were able to raise $1,280!

Pauline Mihelich, Lodge President

REGION 5 CHICAGO AND INDIANAPOLIS

LODGE #44 S. CHICAGO, IL

Alison Colman hefting the Cubs World Series trophy at Wrigley Field. The Lodge Holiday Party will take place on Sunday,

LODGE UPDATE

If you are anything like me, you can’t believe another year has come and gone. Personally this year has been a roller coaster. There have been moves, new

Attending the Matching Funds event were (seated) Genevieve Marco and James Rossi, Sr. (standing, left to right) Betty Krcmaric, Kathy Lovati, Carmelina Apostoliti, Mary Jane Strus, George Bozzetti and James Rossi, Jr.

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THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTS LODGE #52 INDIANAPOLIS, IN

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commander of American Legion Illiana Post 220, Larry Parker, gives a speech and thanks the veterans for their service, while Eddie Marco presents the flag. We had many other activities as well. We made our way to the North side to watch the Cubs play. We had our annual Bocce tournament. We will have completed three food drives by the end of this year. We had our Corporate Communion and selected Gerorge Bozzetti as Person of the Year. We do have a few more items to take care of before the year is out. Our Christmas party will be Saturday, December 10 at the Hammond Yacht Club, 731 Casino Drive Hammond, IN 46320, along with our final food drive and 50 Year Member Recognition. We will have a short meeting before the party to hold elections for 2017 around 3:30 p.m. with dinner around 5:30 p.m. Congratulations to our three 50 Year Member recipients: Joseph Putzell, Michael J. Selenik Jr. and Jacalyn A. Trichak. Our 50-year members will be presented with a gift and certificate at the party, or they will be mailed if not in attendance. If you haven’t been involved and would like to start, please join us. All members can vote. Come with any ideas for the new year. Make 2017 the year to make a bigger difference and let Lodge #44 help. We look forward to seeing everyone there. Please contact a board member or George at 708-334-5434 with any questions of concerns or to make your reservation. Finally, Lodge #44 would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year! God Bless. Angela Rossi

DEC 3 All KSKJ Life and National Home members are welcomed to attend our Children’s Christmas Party! Party from 1-3 p.m. at the Slovenian National Home. There will be games, crafts, snacks and movies! For more information, please send an email to [email protected]. DEC 4 Join us at the National Home at noon for our Adult Christmas Party & Annual Meeting. The lodge will provide fried chicken, but please bring a side dish to share. We have lots to discuss for this upcoming year! Please bring a pair of socks to donate to our troops! Hope to see you there! JAN 28 The Sausage Feast will be $20 per adult with dinner served from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Slovenian National Home. You will have a choice of fresh, smoked or blood sausage served with sauerkraut, potatoes and bread. To reserve your dinner, contact Rick Brodnik at 317-292-3505 or rick.brodnik74@ gmail.com, or Paul Barbarich at 317-858-2484 or [email protected].

REGION 6 NE ILLINOIS & WISCONSIN

LODGE #65 MILWAUKEE, WI

LODGE UPDATE

It doesn't seem like it's November in this area. Our temperatures have been in the 50s and some days the temperature even reaches 60. I know this will end, but in the meantime, I will appreciate these days. Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 7, at St. John the Evangelist Rectory Meeting Room at 6:30 p.m. I encourage you to attend this meeting. Your officers for 2017 will be elected and plans for 2017 will be discussed. Remember this is your lodge and we need your

input. In 2018, our lodge will celebrate its 115th anniversary. It's not too early to start planning a special event. We need your ideas to make it a memorable one. Saturday, December 10 is the date of our annual Christmas Party. We've invited Santa to join us, and he promised to listen to the children's wishes. We'll have some refreshments and a light lunch. The event will be held from 1-4 p.m. Snacks, cookies or bars will be appreciated. Remember, this year’s Supporting Soldiers Campaign will be "Socks for Soldiers." Black or white crew socks are being collected, and we ask that you bring them to our Christmas Party on December 10 or to the lodge meeting on December 7. Monetary donations will be accepted. I hope that everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving. Greetings to all of our sick and shut ins. Nasvidenje! Mici Bregant

LODGE #79 WAUKEGAN, IL

LODGE UPDATE

On Sunday, December 18 at 9 a.m., St. Mary Lodge #79 will be holding a breakfast meeting. At this time, we will review our lodge bylaws, hold election of officers, and review our 2017 activities. The meeting will take place at Anastasia's Restaurant, 3880 Northpoint Blvd. (at Fountain Square) in Waukegan. Feel free to bring a "white elephant" gift with you. Contact MaryLou Stefanick at merilu@sbcglobal. net or 847-662-6169 for reservations. All St. Mary members are invited! Our lodge is participating in the KSKJ Life “Socks for Soldiers” campaign. We are collecting unworn packs of crew socks for our men and women in the military. Please consider bringing a pack or two to the breakfast to help make a difference to the soldiers in need.

THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE

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LOCAL LODGE NEWS & EVENTS LODGE #136 WILLARD, WI

LODGE UPDATE

Greetings from Willard! As I write this, I am amazed at our unusually warm November weather here in Wisconsin. Lodge #136 presented a $1,000 check to The Clark County HCE to help purchase books for the needy children in Clark County through the Bookworm Project. In the picture you will see Dianna Schuette, Bookworm Chairperson, and Cindy Craig, Dairy Bar Chairperson, receiving the check from Joanne Trunkel our Activities Director. Joanne is also a member of the HCE, she is quite a busy lady.

packages of black crew socks or white ankle socks if you can't attend the Christmas Party. Our soldiers are in great need of socks all the time. If you can't purchase the socks but would like to donate some money towards purchasing them, you are more than welcome to do so. Also, anyone who would like to bring a food donation to the Christmas Party is more than welcome. We will again collect nonperishable items for the local food pantry. There is a local company that will match each item donated and there are many people in need of food this Christmas season. Have a joyous and safe Christmas season! Lonna Rakovec, Financial Secretary

REGION 7 MINNESOTA & MICHIGAN

LODGE #59 EVELETH, MN

LODGE UPDATE

Joanne Trunkel, Lodge #136 Fraternal Activities Coordinator (center), presents a Matching Funds check for $1,000 to Dianna Schuette (left) and Cindy Craig (right) of the Clark County HCE. We have already been approached for Matching funds for 2017, the word gets around when good things happen. We wish to thank KSKJ Life’s Home Office for providing these much needed donations! On December 11, we will have our Lodge #136 Election of Officers for 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Parish Center in Willard, which will be followed by our annual Christmas Party co-hosted along with Holy Family Parish. There will be a potluck meal at noon followed by door prizes, games for the children and a sing-along. Of course, Santa will make an appearance to hand out bags of candy and listen to the children’s Christmas lists. A little secret...I heard Mrs. Claus made him a brand new suit this year! During this November and December, we will be collecting "Socks for Soldiers." We will put a tote in the entry of church so you can drop off your new

Sts. Cyril and Methodius Lodge #59 recently held a Matching Funds event in conjunction with Cathedral School’s 18th annual “Wish Upon a Star” Dinner Auction. The event was held on Saturday, November 5 at Barkers Island in Superior, WI. The theme for the night was "Through the Looking Glass" from Alice in Wonderland. The evening began at 5:30 p.m. with a social hour and silent auction. A dinner and live auction followed at 7 p.m. The dinner auction helps to support the education of 150 students in grades K-8 at Cathedral School. Cathedral School is a private Catholic school in Superior, WI. More information and pictures from the event will be published in next month’s issue of The Voice.

REGION 8 COLORADO, KANSAS, MONTANA & CALIFORNIA

LODGE #115 KANSAS CITY, KS

UPCOMING EVENTS

DEC 13 St. Veronica Lodge #115 will hold its annual Meeting on Tuesday, December 13 at Panera Bread Co. at the Legends at 6 p.m. Election of officers will take place at this meeting. DEC 17 The St. Veronica Christmas party at Holy Family Hall will be held from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. All are invited.

LODGE #236 SAN FRANCISCO, CA

UPCOMING EVENTS

Please join St. Francis Lodge #236 on Sunday, December 11 at 11:30 a.m for our wonderful Christmas party at the historic Slovenian Hall. The address is 2101 Mariposa, San Francisco, CA. Members are free, non-member adults are $15 and non-member children are $5. Santa will visit and Slovenian Christmas carols will be sung. We will be participating in the Supporting Soldiers Campaign “Socks for Soldiers.” The mission is to collect brand new packs of crew socks for our men and women soldiers. Please bring your donation of socks to the party. Start looking in your closet and join us in our first annual Ugly Christmas Sweater contest. A prize will be award to the ugliest one! Family photos will be taken at the party. Look for the fun photos in the next issue! For more information please contact Jozi Plut at 650-654-2099 or [email protected].(Address: 7 Cranfield Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070) From our lodge to yours, Vesele Bozicne Praznike in Srecno Novo Leto! Diana Fir Gremett

OTHER NEWS & NOTES SEND IN YOUR LODGE UPDATE

Remember to send in all lodge news and events to [email protected] by the second Friday of each month. Additionally, feel free to submit feature articles of interest for consideration.

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THE KSKJ LIFE VOICE