Published September 7, 2009 E-mail: [email protected] Est. MMVII
Meet Slovenian Consul General Jure Žmauc
One week on the job and he has already fielded a number interviews, enjoyed a performance of the Cleveland based dance group Folklorna Skupina Kres, attended the Cleveland Council of World Affairs lecture "Transatlantic Agenda" by Dr. Klaus Scharioth, German Ambassador to the United States and had a Slovenian-style fish fry at the Slovenian Workmen's Home.
Jure’s wife Janja with children Nika 17and Ajaž 12 will arrive in the United States later this month. The Žmauc family has plans to live in the Cleveland suburb Kirtland, Ohio.
Consul General Žmauc can be reached by telephone at 216-589-9220 or email [email protected]
FilmAbove: Consul General Jure Žmauc in the Cleveland Slovenian Consulate General. Photo by Phil Hrvatin September 4, 2009
Group photo: Cleveland's new Consul General from Slovenia, Jure Žmauc, enjoyed his first Slovenian-style fish fry at the Slovenian Workmen's Home within days of his arrival. Consul Žmauc met members of the city's Slovenian community and learned about the variety of upcoming events on the Slovenian social calendar. From left: Joe Valenčič, Jure Žmauc, Charles Ipavec, Bob Dolgan, Cilka Dolgan, Barbara Strumbly and Charlie Ipavec.( submitted by Joe Valenčič )
Phil Hrvatin Senior Editor Tim Percic Creative Design
Mr. Jure Žmauc
Consul General of the Republic of Slovenia in Cleveland
On August 22, 2009, The Republic of Slovenia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs relieved Consul General Dr. Zvone Žigon from his official duties in Cleveland, OH. Dr. Žigon completed his four-year diplomatic term in the city which claims the largest population of Slovenians outside of Slovenia. The Consulate General of the Republic of Slovenia in Cleveland remains the sole diplomatic office in the State of Ohio.
The Republic of Slovenia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appointed Mr. Jure Žmauc as the succeeding Consul General of the Republic of Slovenia in Cleveland, with consular jurisdiction over the states of Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. This is Consul General Žmauc's second post as a Consul General; he previously held the position in Klagenfurt, Austria.
Consul General Žmauc has a degree in Construction from the Maribor School of Construction and Architecture, and a Law degree from the University of Ljubljana, School of Law. His legal career has included positions in the Maribor Prosecutor's Office and the Federal Court of Austria.
In 1994, Mr. Žmauc served as Director of the Center for International Cooperation at the University of Maribor. From 1994 to 1995, and again in 1997, Mr. Žmauc was Assistant Instructor in Civil Law and International Business Law at the University of Maribor, School of Law. In 1997, he worked as Counselor at the Republic of Slovenia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Office for Slovenes Abroad. In 1998, he began his diplomatic career as a Consul at the Consulate General of the Republic of Slovenia in Klagenfurt, Austria. In 2001, Mr. Žmauc became Consul General there, and completed his four-year term in 2005, serving a total of seven years in Klagenfurt. Prior to his current post, Mr. Žmauc spent four years as Secretary at the Republic of Slovenia, Office for Slovenes Abroad, serving as the Director of the Sector for Cooperation with Slovenes Abroad. In addition to his native Slovenian, Consul General Žmauc speaks English, German, Croatian and Serbian. His wife, Janja, and their two children join him in Cleveland. Otherwise, the Žmauc family resides permanently in Maribor Slovenia.
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Slovenian National Library Opens Children's Center
September 16 & 17, 2009
Members and friends of the Slovenian National Library invite families to the official opening of their new Children's Library with special programs on Wednesday, September 16, and Thursday, September 17, in the Lausche Hall of St. Mary's School, 15519 Holmes Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio. Professor Peter Svetina presents his new children's book, Anton's Circus, which received the 2008 award for most attractive book in Slovenia. The book is written in English and Slovenian. Prof. Svetina will read from his book and autograph copies for purchase. Artist Damijan Stepancic, who illustrated Anton's Circus, will lead a drawing workshop for children. Families and children can attend both evenings. Admission is free and the programs and workshops begin at 6:00 each day.
With this new Children's Library, the Slovenian National Library presents families with a unique opportunity to instill in their children a love of Slovenian language and literature, both in English and Slovenian. Bring your youngest for an enjoyable and creative event. Fairport Slovenian Club
Slovenian Club wins First place prize for Mardi Gras Parade Float
On July 2, 2009 the Annual Fairport Harbor Ohio Mardi Gras parade kicked off the four day Mardi Gras celebration. Every year the parade starts out on Third Street in front of the club and travels through the village and ends at the community park. Once again the Slovenian Club entered a float in the parade and came away with a first place prize. This year’s parade theme was Celebrate Your Heritage. The club did so by featuring the Fairport Polka Jammers on their Slovenian horse drawn wagon with a banner that read “American Slovenian Club - A quaint little cultural club located in a village with a serious polka music problem – Fairport Harbor, Ohio … Welcome to SloTown” This banner slogan is now available on club T-shirts for only $10. The shirts are a great gift idea for someone who enjoys the club and/or the polka music. Stop by the club and get your T-shirt today!
Fairport Slovenian Club Clambake Dinner & Steak Dinner
September 27, 2009 Johnny Lambert's country-western band "Full House Band" who has been featured at numerous fairs in Ohio and Pennsylvania will perform at the Fairport Slovenian Club clambake. In past years Lou and brother John Grzely break out their button boxes and join in with the country-western band. The place really goes wild
Steak Dinner $17.00 / Pork Chops $13.00 / Chicken $13.00 / 1 Dozen of Clams $8.00 Steak with Clams $25.00 / Chicken with Clams $21.00 / Pork Chops with Clams $21.00 Clam Dinner $13.00
www.fairportslovenianclub.com
A few announcements from Joe Valencic
This year marks the 105th anniversary of the SNPJ, America's largest Slovenian organization. The Slovene National Benefit Society (Slovenska narodna podporna jednota) was organized in 1904 by a handful of independent Slovenian lodges across the country. Lodge Naprej, No. 5, was the first SNPJ affiliate to charter in the Cleveland area. Members of SNPJ Lodge No. 5 recently celebrated the Society's founding with a dinner-dance and a birthday cake at SNPJ Farm in Kirtland. From left: Agnes Turk, Eleanor Pengel, Joe Valencic, Karen Tomsic, Richard Tomsic and Barbara Elersich.
Father Perkovich Brings His Polka Mass to Cleveland, Sunday, October 4
Celebrate the end of summer with the Slovenian Polka Mass, followed by a Last Chance Dance at SNPJ Farm in Kirtland, Ohio, Sunday, October 4, 2009. America's polka padre, Father Frank Perkovich, returns from Minnesota to lead the service, accompanied by the Wayne Tomsic Orchestra. After the mass, the summer polka season officially comes to a close with dinner and four hours of dance favorites.
The Polka Mass enhances the spiritual experience with familiar Slovenian polka and waltz melodies. It's a unique expression of faith, first created by American Slovenians 35 years ago and perfected by Father Perkovich. The Polka Mass begins promptly at 1:00 p.m. Sing-along sheets are available. Father Frank Perkovich, the Polka Priest, returns from Minnesota to celebrate his famous Polka Mass Couples can renew their marriage vows at the Polka at SNPJ Farm in Kirtland, Ohio, Sunday, October 4. Mass. You'll want to share your joyful occasion with Last year Alex Shaver served at the celebration of the Mass. your family and friends. Sophie Matuch can give you details on dinner reservations, menu options, and seating arrangements, (440) 951-6906.
Dinners, refreshments and sandwiches are served after the Mass, featuring a special menu. At 3:00, Wayne Tomsic gives the downbeat for an upbeat afternoon of Cleveland-style polkas and waltzes until 7:00 p.m. It's your last chance to dance at SNPJ Farm this year. Wayne's warm refrains will linger with you into the winter.
Admission is only $5.00. Children and teens free. SNPJ Farm is on Heath Road in Kirtland, Ohio, off Chardon Road (Route 6), three miles east of Route 306 and six miles west of State Route 44.
Joe Valencic, President ~ Cleveland Federation of SNPJ Lodges Discovering New York's Slovenian Scene
New York City showed off its Slovenian side as a busload of Clevelanders enjoyed a long weekend in the Big Apple. Joe Valencic and accordionist Johnny Koenig added music and humor to their knowledge of New York for a memorable, one-of-a-kind travel experience. From the Statue of Liberty to Times Square to Grant's Tomb, the tour took in the city's major sights. Visitors also discovered the warmth and hospitality of the Slovenian and Gottscheer communities.
"Who would think New York had Slovenians? We're everywhere!" remarked Jeanne Matuch. "We had such a great time. I mean, it's New York! It doesn't get any more exciting."
"I've always wanted to organize a Slovenian weekend in New York City," said tour leader Joe Valencic. "We had a great group with every generation of Slovenians and their friends on board. We saw a lot, ate a lot, laughed a lot, and sang a lot."
Kollander Travel reserved a deluxe motorcoach for the ride across Clevelanders gather below the Statue of Liberty for the first Pennsylvania and New Jersey with capable all-Slovenian weekend in New York City. From left: Drago Lakefront Lines driver Christina. Johnny Androjna, Betty Zalar, Mary Grcar, Angela Androjna, Ana Koenig provided polka and waltz favorites, Krevh, Mary Lunder, Maria Druzina, Joe Valencic, Emma while Joe made the trip seem shorter with Delach, Fran Coberly and Stanley Grk. movies and games, including a rollicking horse race. Cilka Dolgan led the sing-alongs. The newly-redecorated Holiday Inn Express near the Lincoln Tunnel was ideally situated for access to Manhattan.
The rich and varied history of New York was explained in a lively narrative by on-board guide Minya Dzakulin. Minya's show-business tours of the city have been written about in the New York Times. He pointed out the locations of well- known film scenes, as well as the apartments of the rich and famous, from Jackie O, Babe Ruth and Joan Crawford to Brad Pitt, Madonna and Matt Lauer. The group viewed the World Trade Center site from the mezzanine of the Winter Garden, visited President
The neon lights of Broadway dazzle Cleveland Slovenians on their Times Square stroll. From left: Mary Grcar, Jeanne Matuch, Sophie Matuch, Stanley Grk, Maria Druzina, Betty Zalar, Ana Krevh, Bob Dolgan, Cilka Dolgan, and Angela and Drago Androjna.
Grant's majestic tomb overlooking the Hudson River, and explored South Street Seaport next to the Brooklyn Bridge.
The Clevelanders were special guests at a goulash dinner and dance at the Gottscheer Club in the borough of Queens. The Gottscheers or Kocevars are descendants of Slovenia's ethnic Austrian communities in and around Kocevje, known as Gottschee in German. Johnny Koenig's late father was the manager of the club and hall, so it was a homecoming for the young bandleader. Drummer R. J. Likovic joined Johnny and the orchestra for a polka show that included Austrian Schuhplattler dancers. Local Slovenians included former Clevelanders Barbara and Ivan Kamin and Slovenian journalists Andrej Brstovsek and Robert Poredos.
Ellis Island was the gateway to America for Slovenians, Croatians and other emigrants seeking a new life for their families. Exhibits and a film traced their stories at this important monument to our nation's heritage. Several Slovenian-themed items were on display. Tour members were able to find the names of parents and relatives on the Immigrant Wall of Honor. The Statue of Liberty was the next stop on the ferry ride. For many, this was their first up-close encounter with the USA's enduring symbol of welcome and freedom. Several were moved with emotion.
"When you see the Statue of Liberty, you understand what America meant to all the people coming here," said Drago Androjna. "I'm so happy we made this trip."
"Sure, I'm proud to be Slovenian, but I'm first and foremost an American," added Al Pestotnik. "To visit Ellis Island and to see Ground Zero really brings home to me the fact that this is the greatest country in the world."
Other memorable moments included a walking tour of mid-town Sunday Mass in Slovenian at St. Cyril's Manhattan with stops at impressive St. Patrick's Cathedral and Church was a highlight of the first Rockefeller Plaza, plus an evening stroll around Times Square Slovenian weekend in New York City. Sophie Matuch, Cilka Dolgan and to take in the dazzling lights and bustling crowds. Cindy Matuch. No one went home hungry from this trip. Dining highlights included the historic Playwright Celtic Pub in the Theater District and the famous Oyster Bar Restaurant in Grand Central Station.
For many, the highlight of the weekend was Slovenian Mass at St. Cyril's Church in Manhattan's East Village. The parish has served as the heart of the city's Slovenian community for nearly a century. The church was renovated through a grant from the Slovenian government a decade ago. Father Marij Osredkar, visiting from Ljubljana, celebrated the Mass. Ljubljana jazz musician Lenart Krecic, a student of Cleveland saxophone legend Joe Lovano, accompanied the choir on the organ.
After the service, Ivan Kamin welcomed the Cleveland group and St. Cyril parishioners hosted with potica and flancate in the church hall. The reception was also attended by Lynn Zalokar, local president of the Slovenian Women's Union, and noted artist Bogdan Grom who created the relief sculptures, tabernacle, font, crucifix and lighting for the church. At age 91, he still accepts commissions.
The ride home from New York included more games and music and a dinner stop at the Grove City Outlet Mall. The group planned a trip reunion to compare photos. The fellow-travelers are ready for another Slovenian-style excursion.
"This was such an incredible time," said Emma Delach. "I enjoyed New York like never before and made so many new friends. Imagine, dancing the polka with Slovenians in New York City. It was great! I'm ready for the next trip, wherever it is!"
For information on upcoming Slovenian-themed trips, contact Judy at Kollander Travel in Cleveland, (216) 692-1000, or Joe Valencic at JAValencic at Yahoo.
Joe Valencic
Johnny Koenig played for the goulash dinner and polka dance at the Gottscheer Club in Queens.
Events
September 11 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Wayne Tomsic Orchestra [email protected] 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
September 12 National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame 6th Annual Sausage Festival Location: Slovenska Pristava http://www.sloveskapristava.org 1:00 - 7:00pm $7.00 at the door/ $6.00 advance sales For info call the Polka Hall of Fame & Museum 216-261- FAME or toll free 866-66-POLKA
September 13 Wiloughby Hills Ohio Fall Corn Fest 2009 Willoughby Hills Fall Corn Fest is a two-day event this year, starting on Saturday, September 12, 2009. Dance to your favorite Slovenian melodies as performed by the Joey Tomsick Orchestra.
SNPJ Ladies Auxiliary Picnic 3:30 to 7:30 Eddie Rodick Orchestra SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094
September 18 Slovenian National Home Annual Social 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, OH Contact Gerri Hopkins 216-361-5115 Dinner by Julie Zalar Annual Fund raising Raffle. Doors open at 6:15. Complete family style Dinner served 7:15. Tickets are $60.00 and additional dinners are $20.00.
West Park Slovenian Home Dance Joey Tomsick Orchestra www.joeytomsick.com 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
September 20 Slovenska Pristava Wine Festival www.slovenskapristava.org Music by Veseli Godci
SNPJ Friends of the Farm Picnic 3:30 to 7:30 Don Wojtila Orchestra SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094
Wisconsin - 5th Annual USPEH Balina Tournament Food - Drink - Music - Fun Noon to ? www.triglavpark.com Triglav Park 6464 South Loomis Rd.Wind Lake, WI. 53185
September 25 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Bob Kravos & the Boys in the Band www.bkboysintheband.com 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
September 26 St. Clair Rifle & Hunting Club Annual Clambake 6599 Ravenna Rd. Concord Twp, OH 44077 Music by the Joey Tomsick Orchestra. For additional information contact President Richard Beck 440-256-7000 [email protected]
Baraga Days 2009 It's Marquette, Michigan in 2009! Bishop Baraga Days Schedule Saturday, September 26th 6:00 p.m. Slovenian Mass St. Peter Cathedral, 311 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette , MI 49855 7:30 p.m. - Social featuring Mama Russo's & the Singing Slovenes Marquette Armory, 1820 Lincoln Ave., Marquette , MI 49855 Ticket $15.00 or Weekend Booster Button $25 (Social & Banquet included).
September 27 SNPJ Slovenian Grape Festival 2:45 to 7:30 Joey Tomsick Orchestra SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094
October 2 Slovenian National Home Clam Bake Details to follow. Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, OH
West Park Slovenian Home Dance Wayne Tomsic Orchestra [email protected] 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
October 3 AMLA Clambake www.americanmutual.org - SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094 Gates open at 1:00pm Dinner served at 2:00 - 4:00 Music by Jack Flaisman 2-6 Clambake or Steak Dinner Contact Theresa Aveni [email protected]
October 4 SNPJ Cleveland Federation Polka Mass 1:00 P.M. Wayne Tomsic Band SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094
October 9 Friends of Slovenian National Home Oktoberfest Contact Gerri Hopkins 216-361-5115 Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, Ohio 44103
West Park Slovenian Home Dance Fred Ziwich Orchestra 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
October 10 KSKJ Athletic Club Annual Social Contact Ron Zak 440-526-3344 Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, Ohio 44103 www.kskjlife.org
October 11 Slovenska Pristava Annual Sausage Dinner
West Park Slovenian Home Dance Sunday Wayne Tomsic Orchestra [email protected] 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
October 16 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Dan Peters Orchestra 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
October 17 St Lawrence Church & Slovenian National Home E. 80th Present a Harvest Dinner Dance 5:00 Mass at St. Lawrence Church - Bishop Pevec Officiating Dinner dance Slovenian National Home 3563 E 80th St Cleveland, Ohio www.thenash2.com Music by Joe Novak & Friends Contact Anna Mae Mannion 216-341-6136 or Tony Peskar 440-243-0312
October 18 Slovenska Pristava Annual Meeting
October 23 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Joey Tomsick Orchestra www.joeytomsick.com 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
October 24 Fantje na vasi - in concert - 7pm University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts Call Mary Cay Freiberg 414-778-1464 for tickets
October 24 Stajerski-Prekmurski Klub Martinovanje Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave.Tickets: Call Mimi Cupar 216-832-2665 or Tonica Simicak 440-256-6716
October 25 SNPJ Pancake & Sausage Breakfast 9:00 AM - 1:00 P.M. $5 Adults, $3 Children SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094
October 30 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Bob Kravos & the Boys in the Band www.bkboysintheband.com 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
November 1 Fantje na vasi - in concert - 3pm Breen Center for the Performing Arts Saint Ignatius High School West 30th and Lorain Ave.
November 6 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Frank Moravcik Orchestra 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
November 8 SNPJ Original Masquerade Ball. SNPJ Farm 11000 Heath Road Kirtland, OH 44094
November 13 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Fred Ziwich Orchestra 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
November 14 Belokranj Ski Klub - Dinner Dance Contact Amelia Maslac 440-423-0527 Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, Ohio 44103
November 20 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Bob Kravos & the Boys in the Band www.bkboysintheband.com 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
November 28 Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame Awards Show Contact Cecilia Dolgan 216-261-3263 Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, OH December 4 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Frank Moravcik Orchestra 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
December 6 Wisconsin - Sveti Miklavž (St. Nick) 2:00 p.m. at St. John The Evangelist. Triglav members and their invited guests. www.triglavpark.com Triglav Park 6464 South Loomis Rd. Wind Lake, WI. 53185
December 11 West Park Slovenian Home Christmas Party Joey Tomsick Orchestra www.joeytomsick.com 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
December 13 AMLA - Christmas Party Contact Theresa Aveni 216-531-1900 Slovenian National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave Cleveland, Ohio 44103
December 18 West Park Slovenian Home Dance Wayne Tomsic Orchestra [email protected] 4583 W. 130th St. Cleveland OH 44135 216-941-3224
From: A&I Vatovec
Hello Philip,
Thank you for emailing your informative newsletter. The SMA is a wonderful achievement.
I have taken the liberty to attach a copy of our Slovenia South Australia newsletter.
Kind regards, Adrian Vatovec
Hello Adrian, I look at your newsletter created halfway around the world and I feel like I'm at home. Is the newsletter available on a website? If so, I can direct my readers to it. If not, I can post it on our site.
Regards, Phil
Hi Philip,
I am glad you feel at home and of course you are most welcome to our Slovenian community. It is fascinating by way of the internet to observe Slovenian communities worldwide. Slovenia SA newsletter http://www.glasslovenije.com.au/aktualno/adelaideJuly_2009.pdf is on the Slovenian Australian Network, website http://www.glasslovenije.com.au/ This website as the name implies has contribution from various Australian Slovenian groups. The administrator of the website is Florjan Auser.
Lep pozdrav
Adrian http://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianvatovec September 5-27, 2009 11:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturdays and Sundays Only! CAROLE RYAVEC AT THE GOVERNOR'S ISLAND ART FAIR Slovene-American filmmaker Carole Ryavec will screen her film "50 Years of American Art: Bogdan Grom." The film follows American based Slovene artist Bogdan Grom as he prepares for his upcoming exhibition in Washington D.C. and discusses his lengthy and prolific career. "50 Years of American Art" lasts half an hour and will be screened along with the trailers for a number of her upcoming films about foreign artists living in and around New York.
The Governor's Island Art Fair is presented by the 4heads Collective and features the work of over 150 independent artists and galleries.
Building 12, room 12N Govenor's Island New York, NY
For more information on the Art Fair and getting to Governor's Island, please go to www.4heads.org.
September 13, 2009 11:00 am ANNUAL PARISH PICNIC AND POLKA MASS Holy Cross Slovenian Church invites all to their annual parish picnic and raffle. The picnic will immediately follow the 11:00 am mass.
Long-running Pennsylvania band “The Polka Quads” will play for the mass and then kick off an exciting afternoon of dancing in the parish hall.
The picnic will feature a wide array of Balkan foods including roasted lamb, roasted pig, čevapčiči, sarma, cabbage and noodles, gulaš, bacon, liver, and onions, klobase, along with roast beef, hamburgers, hot dogs, and more. For dessert there will be palačinke, apple strudel, and other home baked desserts. Beer, wine, and soft drinks will be available.
Admission is $2.00 per person. Children get in free.
Holy Cross Church 750 Tahmore Drive Fairfield, CT 06825 Tel: (203) 372-4595
Opening: September 18, 2009 7:00 am to dusk TOBIAS PUTRIH: AT LENTSPACE Presented by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, LentSpace transforms an entire city block into a free outdoor cultural space open to the public.
New York-based Slovene artist Tobias Putrih features in the opening exhibition Points and Lines.
LentSpace is located at the city block at Canal, Varick, Grand and Sullivan Streets in New York City. For more information on LentSpace and its inaugural exhibitions, please go to www.lmcc.net/lentspace.
September 25, 2009 - January 31, 2010 Opening: September 25, 2009 6:30 pm BOGDAN GROM: SELECTED WORKS, 1947 – 2008 During the last six decades, Bogdan Grom, whose sculpture entitled 'The Sentinel' (Straža) adorns the entrance of the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia, has created art in just about every medium imaginable, including watercolour and oil paintings, sculpture, paper cutouts, drawings, and textiles.
Bogdan Grom continues to divide his reality and his dreams between the Trieste karst and the Plaza Blanca canyon and Bandelier caves of New Mexico. The exhibition at the Embassy of Slovenia includes his homage to the past and present Native inhabitants of the great Southwest.
Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia 2410 California Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: (202) 386-6601 web: http://washington.embassy.si/en
Application Deadline: September 22, 2009 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR FORIEGN CITIZENS PURSUING DOCTORATES IN SLOVENIA DURING THE 2009-2010 ACADEMIC YEAR The Slovene Human Resources Development and Scholarship Fund invites foreign citizens pursuing doctoral studies in the natural sciences, technology or medicine at institutions of higher education in the Republic of Slovenia to apply for scholarships for the 2009-2010 academic year. Scholarships will be awarded for both tuition and living expenses.
For more information please contact Doris Sattler at the Fund by telephone during official hours, Monday to Friday 9:00am to 12:00pm and Wednesday also between 2:00pm and 4:00pm (all times are for Slovenia) at +386-1-434-5892 or via e- mail at [email protected]. You can also visit the Fund's website at www.sklad-kadri.si
November 6-8, 2009 SLOVENIAN HERITAGE WEEKEND GETAWAY This fun-filled weekend includes an international folk dance workshop, fun with proverbs, a klobasa making demonstration, a Slovenian film (subtitled in English) and more. There will also be an easy "Mount Triglav at Mohican" hike.
The fee is $122 for Appalachian Mountain Club members and $129 for non-members. This fee includes all activities, two nights lodging, two breakfasts, two lunches, Friday happy hour and a Slovenian wine tasting and dinner on Saturday.
Mohican Outdoor Center 50 Camp Road Blairstown, NJ 07825
For more information contact Lynn Zalokar at (201) 947-6336 or [email protected]. To register call the Mohican Outdoor Center at (908) 362-5670. Space is limited.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2009 CALL FOR PAPERS ON SLOVENE EXPATRIATES The Office for Slovenes Living Abroad has issued a call for BA, MA, and PhD senior projects, theses and dissertations discussing topics related to Slovene communities outside the borders of the Republic of Slovenia that have been successfully defended at any university in or outside Slovenia. Submissions are being called to encourage academic research on Slovene expatriates. Candidates both from within Slovenia and abroad are encouraged to apply.
Papers will be judged by an expert committee and three theses or dissertations discussing the topic of Slovenes living in neighboring countries and three theses or dissertations discussing the topic of Slovenes living further abroad will be awarded on the basis of their recommendation. Each category shall receive one first prize award of 800 Euros and two second place prizes of 600 Euros respectively.
Candidates should include a hardcover copy of their work, proof that the paper was successfully defended and a short CV of the author. Results will be posted around the end of March 2010.
For more information, please contact the Consulate at [email protected] or the Office for Slovenes Living Abroad at [email protected].
Editor’s Note: To inquire about being listed in Kažipot, please contact the Consulate General of Slovenia in New York at (212) 370-3006 or [email protected] In This Issue Interview Series: J u r e Žmauc, Newly Appointed Inter view Series: Consul General of Jure Žmauc, Newly Appointed Consul Slovenia in Cleveland General of Slovenia Jure Žmauc, Slovenian Republic of Slovenia in in Cleveland Consul General, arrived to his Cleveland? What attracted you to this post in Cleveland in August. He post? Technolog y Sciences succedded Dr. Zvone Žigon, I am a career diplomat and Group Opens its whose term in Cleveland lasted with that comes the opportunity Branch in Slovenia four years. to serve in various cities around Where were you born? the world. My interest is serving in I was born in Maribor, places where a Slovenian community Slovene Press Ag ency Slovenia. My father comes from Ptuj. is present. As Consul General in Opens an »all in one« Web site on the My mother comes from Bistrica ob Austria, I had the experience of Financial Crisis Sotli. I am one of two children; all of working with a Slovenian minority us - my family, my parents, my brother group in a neighboring country. At and his family - live in Maribor. the Office for Slovenes Abroad, EU-US Launch Joint What is your professional my jurisdiction was over Slovenians Education Projects history? throughout Europe. Now, I will have to Advance Academic I have a technical degree in an opportunity to serve Slovenians Cooperation construction, and a law degree. I did living across the water, as we say. In legal work in Maribor and Austria, Cleveland, I will have an opportunity U.S. Open: and I was an assistant instructor at the to live and work with one of the Starting Over for Srebotnik University of Maribor Law School. largest Slovenian communities in the In 1997, I began working at the world. Office for Slovenes Abroad and, the What is the jurisdiction of the Tourist Season Second following year, I began my diplomatic Consulate General of the Republic of Best Since Independence career as a consul in Celovec, Austria, Slovenia in Cleveland. Tobias Putrih at working with the Slovenian minority The Consulate General of LENTSPACE community there. I eventually served the Republic of Slovenia in Cleveland a four-year term as Consul General has a 10-state jurisdiction. These there and then returned to the Office are Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Sinfo, July - August 09 for Slovenes Abroad, where I spent Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Issue the last four years overseeing the Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Sector for Cooperation with Slovenes Of course, the largest Slovenian Abroad. community is in Cleveland, which is How did you come to the why the office is located there. The position of Consul General of the Chicago area and parts of Western
Embassy’s Newsletter Page 1 September 4, 2009 Pennsylvania also have quite large Slovenian populations. While I was working as a consul, then as Consul What goals or special projects do you have in General in Klagenfurt Austria, I felt energized and mind as Consul General of Slovenia in Cleveland? inspired when I would work directly with the Slovenian My main goal is to help Slovenian-Americans minority group there. I enjoy learning about the diverse maintain their Slovenian culture, language and identity. destinies of Slovenians who left their homeland. There is I also plan to pay attention to third, fourth and fi fth a wide spectrum of reasons why Slovenians came to their generation Slovenian-Americans, because there is a settlements around the world, and those stories are rich special love of Slovenian heritage among them, too. and fascinating. My job is to build bridges between my homeland I think the most challenging part of my experience and my jurisdiction in the United States. One of my goals in Cleveland will be to explain to American people why is to invite Slovenian-Americans in scientifi c professions Slovenian-Americans love their homeland so much. The to bring their knowledge and talent to Slovenia to teach fact that fourth and fi fth generation Slovenian-Americans our young scientists. still respect their Slovenian culture is incredible. If I will succeed at that, then I will have represented my country well and done my job. Are there any particular connections between middle America and Slovenia that you want to especially point out? There is the obviously strong and large Slovenian community in the Cleveland area. There are also signifi cant communities in Pennsylvania, Lemont, IL, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Leadville and Pueblo, CO, and Minneapolis- St. Paul. There are many Slovenian settlements across the Midwest, and, therefore, there is much interest in and Jure Žmauc, Slovenian Consul General in Cleveland. love for Slovenia there. Photo, Hrvatin. Also, every year, more and more American tourists travel to Slovenia and it’s clear that Slovenia is becoming a Also, Slovenia is almost 19 years old and getting stronger more popular travel destination for the general American in many ways, but the world is in an economic and population. I intend to further promote American travel fi nancial crisis. I would like to invite American businesses to Slovenia. and economic professionals to regard Slovenia as a land Is anyone joining you in Cleveland? of promising business opportunities. The United States My wife, Janja, and our two children. When is friendly toward Slovenia and I would like to encourage they shortly arrive in Cleveland, the Slovenian-American more business bridges here. community will have four new members. Our family dog, What part of your work do you experience as the Moro, will also be joining us. most rewarding and challenging? Technology Sciences Group Opens its Branch in Slovenia Technology Sciences Group Inc. announced the opening of TSGE Slovenia, expanding its regulatory consulting services into Central and Eastern Europe, including Poland, Hungary, Croatia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria and Ukraine. “As companies strive to develop a global presence, there is a growing demand for scientifi c and regulatory
Embassy’s Newsletter Page 2 September 4, 2009 consulting fi rms that can effectively bring and maintain expertise on a broad range of global environmental a product compliant with regulations to the international compliance issues, will be managed in Slovenia by Ms. market,” said Dr. Arthur Lawyer, Managing Director Bojana Zgonec, who has over ten years of experience in of TSGE. “With the opening of TSGE Slovenia, we regulatory affairs. TSGE Slovenia provides consulting can accommodate these needs by offering our services services in the areas of plant protection, biocides, animal to a broader market.” TSG, which is an international health, REACH, and associated chemical sectors. consulting fi rm that provides scientifi c and regulatory Slovene Press Agency Opens an »all in one« Web site on the Financial Crisis Slovenian Press Agency (STA), has unveiled a them – and to provide it quickly and thoroughly. The new Web site with up-to-date information on the present Web site offers a systematic overview of the already fi nancial crisis. The Web page, Krizno ogledalo (Crisis introduced measures and information regarding their mirror) is a joint effort of the Economic Chamber of implementation. Available are daily updates on the bank Slovenia, the Slovene Chamber of Commerce, several sector, entrepreneurs, social partners and individuals. government ministries, trade union organizations, the Krizno ogledalo also presents analyses of the Slovenian, entrepreneurs’ association, and several other institutions EU and world economies, which are accompanied by and organizations. different commentaries and critiques by economists, The goal of the new service is to provide social partners, and politicians. information on the different measures taken regarding Welcome to the Web site of Krizno ogledalo, www. the fi nancial crisis, and opinions about and reactions to kr-og.sta.si. The site is available also in English. EU-US Launch Joint Education Projects to Advance Academic Cooperation The European Commission and the U.S. in Europe and in North America develop, work closer Department of Education have jointly launched 25 new together and aim higher. Such long-term partnerships are education projects to advance transatlantic academic to the benefi t of advanced education on both sides of the cooperation. Part of the EU-US Atlantis program, the Atlantic.” projects involve 116 universities and training institutions and focus on creating innovative courses and degree structures, including transatlantic joint or double degrees. The European Commission has also launched eight new education projects with Canada. “Due to the lasting cooperation within the EU- US Atlantis and the EU-Canada programs we are inviting university professors, and particularly students, from our partners in North America to come to Europe to take part in joint study projects,” said Ján Figel, the European The European Commission and the U.S. Commissioner for Education, Training, Culture and Department of Education will each contribute 5.7 Youth. “By participating, students can work towards joint million euros to support the students in these two-way and double degrees, helping advanced education hubs transatlantic exchanges.
Embassy’s Newsletter Page 3 September 4, 2009 U.S. Open: Starting Over for Srebotnik Slovenia’s best woman tennis player, Katarina compentition on Tuesday. It was a bad day for Slovenians Srebotnik, returned to the U.S. Open this Tuesday. She all around, as Maša Zec Peškirič and Polona Hercog were was ranked as high as number 20 in the world in singles also routed out. Hercog lost to Christina McHale of the and number four in doubles, and had posted victories United States (3-6, 1-6) and Zec Peskiric was defeated by over Serena Williams at Roland Garros and Svetlana Yaroslava Shvedova of Kazakhstan (3-6, 3-6). Kuznetsova at the U.S. Open a year ago. But pain in her Nevertheless, Katarina Srebotnik, who is now Achilles tendon and a shoulder injury forced her off the ranked 56th in the world (before her injury she was 20th), Sony Ericsson WTA Tour for 10 months. It’s called the will not be leaving Flushing Meadows just yet, as she is luck of the draw, and for Srebotnik it was bad luck. Her first-round opponent was 13th-seeded Nadia Petrova of Russia.
also competing in the doubles competition together with Yung-Jan Chan of Taiwan. The two were successful in their first round. On Wednesday, Katarina and Chan Yung-Jan defeated Kristina Barrois of Germany and Tathiana Farbin of Italy (6-0, 7-5). Slovenia has no men’s representatives at the U.S. Katarina Srebotnik lost to Nadia Petrova Open as Blaž Kavčič, Grega Žemlja and Luka Gregorc in straight sets (6-3, 6-3) in the first round in the failed to qualify. Tourist Season Second Best Since Independence Ljubljana, 3 September (STA) - The Economy stays between January and July, with the exception of Bled Ministry is rather satisfied with this year’s tourist season, and Ljubljana, which were the most visited destinations as it has been the second best in Slovenia’s history, the during the presidency. head of the ministry’s Tourism Directorate, Marjan The number of overnight stays at Bled in July was, Hribar, said on Thursday. however, 18% higher than in the same month in 2008, The number of overnight stays in the first seven and results for August are just as promising. months dropped by 4% compared to last year, but Hribar According to Hribar, good results are the result of pointed out, that during that period last year, Slovenia effective promotion, which has been especially evident at hosted several events as part of its stint as EU president. home. Slovenian spas “are practically the strongest pillar” Almost all tourist destinations registered a rise in overnight of Slovenian tourism, Hribar said, noting they have
Embassy’s Newsletter Page 4 September 4, 2009 proven they can compete on the international market. Austrians (13%) and Germans (11%). Guests from Foreign currency inflow this year fell by 4% compared Croatia are fourth in the number of overnight stays. to last year. But, the number of overnight stays generated Other markets of the former Yugoslavia represent a by foreign tourists dropped by 9%, which shows that this massive potential, Hribar added, noting that the EU - and year foreign tourists in Slovenia are spending more than consequently also Slovenia - is abolishing visas for Serbia, last year. Macedonia and Montenegro on 1 January. Slovenia will be among first countries to launch a broad advertising campaign in these markets, Hribar said. He expects that they could make it to the top five markets for Slovenia. Hribar noted that the number of tourists from Germany and Austria had been falling for years. The ministry will thoroughly examine the issue in the following months, he said. “In these markets Slovenia has not been achieving good results for years, which indicates that something we are doing there is not right.” Slovenia is continuing investments in tourism infrastructure. The response to the latest tender for funding, as part of which Eur 23m will be distributed, Among foreign tourists, the greatest number of overnight exceeded all expectations, with 49 applicants asking for stays is still generated by Italians (19%), followed by Eur 247m, Hribar said.
Presented by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, Tobias Putrih at LentSpace transforms an entire city block into a free outdoor cultural space open to the public. New York- LENTSPACE based Slovene artist Tobias Putrih will be featured in the opening exhibition Points and Lines. Opening: September 18, 2009 7:00 am to dusk LentSpace is located at the city block at Canal, Varick, Grand and Sullivan Streets in New York City. For more information on LentSpace and its inaugural exhibitions, please go to www.lmcc.net/lentspace.
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Embassy’s Newsletter Page 5 September 4, 2009