Slovenian-American Club

Navihanke - Slovenian tunes medley

2011-05-22T11:07:00.000-04:00

This is a nice medley of some popular Slovenian tunes, performed by ensemble Navihanke. All the members of this band are young ladies, still students. Enjoy! :)

Član parlamenta gre v nebesa

2011-05-18T17:26:00.000-04:00

Član parlamenta hodi po cesti,zadene ga tovornjak in povozi do smrti. Njegova duša gre v nebesa,kjer se pred vhodom sreča s Sv. Petrom. "Dobrodošel v nebesa" reče Sv. Peter,"Preden te nastanim, hm, izgleda da imamo problem. Zelo poredko se znajdejo tukaj visoki funkcionarji, tako da ne vemo kaj bi s tabo." "Ti samo spusti me noter. Ne bo problema," reče možakar. "Če bi smel bi te spustil, se

Perpetuum Jazzile U.S. Tour - 2011 schedule

2011-05-17T12:49:00.000-04:00

A popular Slovenian choir with millions of views on their YouTube videos is finally scheduled to tour North America this summer. They perform jazz, pop and lately Slovenian folk music, received several awards for their performances and published six albums so far. For this summer Perpetuum Jazzile's will be the one concert that you wouldn't want to miss for sure - if at all possible. Photo "

Euro Kvintet

2011-05-04T08:54:00.001-04:00

Image via WikipediaIt used to be that the first tunes by new ensembles weren't all that good and it usually took them a while to break through and become popular or have a hit song. I just heard the Euro Kvintet for the first time at one of the recent festivals in Slovenia (the truth is - I don't really know how long they have been around) - but their playing (I'm talking about the instrumental

In a year or two...

2011-04-15T20:13:00.000-04:00

This is an example of two popular pop singers Špela Grošelj and Domen Kumer singing a nice Slovenian waltz Čez leto ali dve (In a Year or Two). One more proof how excellent vocals can make a huge difference in popularity of certain genre of music. The lyrics go something like that in Slovenian: Čez leto ali dvebo drugače vse,le ljubezen najina še bo trajala... And in English: In a year or

Unique accordion

2011-04-05T20:10:00.000-04:00

The new season of Slovenia's Got Talent (SIT - Slovenija ima talent) seems to be the talk of the last few days in Slovenia. Poplular and well known folk ensemble Azalea was one of the performers that caught the most attention with their performance and this unique accordion (see photo below). Ensemble Azalea at Slovenia's Got Talent (Slovenija ima talent) - Foto: Dejan Vrtačnik The four

Spring Hill Orchid Show

2011-03-26T17:24:00.001-04:00

For a few years in a row, Orchid Lovers Club of Spring Hill has rented our Suncoast SNPJ Lodge 778 hall on County Line Road for their annual Orchid Show in March. I've heard about the event but never visited - and I'm glad I changed that today! 2011 Spring Hill Orchid Show at the Spring Hill Hall One of the things that surprised me every time I walked into familiar Hall, ready for another

Mother's Day - Materinski dan

2011-03-25T14:57:00.004-04:00

Closeup of Cinco De Mayo rose flower . . Today is the Mother's Day (Materinski dan) in Slovenia. To all the moms all over the place I'm sending my best wishes and these beautifully scented roses from my front yard. Happy Mother's Day!! :) Blooming Cinco De Mayo rose . . Tiny yellow petunias that bloom all season long decided to turn into perennials (I bought and planted them last spring

2011 Florida SNPJ Days in Spring Hill

2011-03-24T23:25:00.012-04:00

I am still working on all the (photo and video) materials from this year's Florida SNPJ Days, hosted by Suncoast SNPJ Lodge 778 in Spring Hill. But to give you a little taste of what was going on at our hall, here's a photo and a video. . . Photo above by Rose Zaletel - Friday Jam Session at the Spring Hill Hall: Kathy Paulenich (button box), Larry Zaletel (button box), John Gurl (drums), Pete

Election of the officers

2011-03-21T22:11:00.001-04:00

There's a regular monthly meeting (and the last one until fall) scheduled at the Suncoast SNPJ Lodge 778 in Spring Hill, Florida - for May 4, 2011 at 11 AM. There will be nomination, election and installation of new officers at this meeting. Catherine Feil is running for the position of the President/Treasurer and Nezka Novak for the position of the Vice President/Treasurer. Please attend if

Srečen - Happy

2011-03-20T10:26:00.005-04:00

"Srečen" - Happy - is one of those things that probably every human being wants to be - as much - or as often - as possible. Some recent events reminded me again how irrelevant so many things we tend to worry about in life are and I am now even more determined to stay focused on the bright side of my life. That's why I decided to share some happiness with this happy polka, performed by an

Name Day tradition in Slovenia

2011-03-19T10:11:00.001-04:00

In Slovenia, the Name Day - "god" in Slovenian, is still way more important to a lot of people than their birthday - and that's what they celebrate every year. Just last night Nežka was telling me about the Name Day tradition in the village near Domžale, where she comes from. In my early years, the traditional celebrations haven't been a significant part of my life - although I lived in a small

First annual Craft Show

2011-03-17T11:17:00.007-04:00

SUNCOAST DANCE AND PARTY CENTERSNPJ Lodge 778 13383 County Line Road Spring Hill, Florida 34609 Contact: Daria Telephone: (727) 753-9631 Date: April 9, 2011 CRAFT SHOW ON APRIL 9, 2011 All vendors, craft artisans and public - invited to participate in the first annual craft show on April 9, 2011. Bring your creative talents and colorful art

Friday at Samsula

2011-02-28T15:34:00.000-05:00

Since I was already on the east coast of Florida for the last space shuttle Discovery launch, I decided to stay there another day, check out some other attractions and go to Samsula on Friday afternoon for the 2011 Florida Slovene Days at SNPJ Lodge 603. The first thing that surprised me when I arrived to Samsula Hall was the 'Polka Avenue' sign. I thought that was very cute. . . . . Friday

Saturday dance with Frank Moravcek from Cleveland, Ohio

2011-02-27T13:29:00.001-05:00

Suncoast SNPJ Lodge 778 - Slovene-American Club in Spring Hill hosted its traditional February dance with Frank Moravcek from Cleveland, Ohio, this Saturday, February 26, 2011. Photo above: Linda Hochevar and Frank Moravcek The music was good, the hall was full and people seem to have fun. Yet another event is 'under the roof' while the 2010/2011 season of events with Spring Hill SNPJ Lodge is

92 minutes of Slovenian music

2011-02-22T18:44:00.001-05:00

Image via WikipediaIn case you're up for 92 minutes of Slovenian music, click on the link below, lean back, relax and enjoy. This is a New Year Eve's show "Videomeh" with Slovenian polkas and waltzes, singing at its best by the legends of Slovenian folk and pop music scene, hosted by two popular hosts and singers, Boris Kopitar and Nuša Derenda. Other popular vocals some of you might

Alex Meixner Band instead of Polka Quads

2011-02-12T09:37:00.005-05:00

Image by sunflower19020 via FlickrAbout a week ago Polka Quads (they were supposed to play at the Spring Hill Hall on Saturday and Sunday - March 5 and 6) had to cancel their participation in Suncoast SNPJ Lodge 778 biggest event of the year - Florida SNPJ Days 2011. Here's what John Salov, the band leader of Polka Quads sent to me in an email: Daria: It breaks my heart to cancel but all 3 0f

Idrija Slovenia - 2011 Alpine Town

2011-02-09T10:28:00.001-05:00

Žlikrofi, Slovenian national food from town Idrija. Idrija Becomes Alpine Town of 2011 09.02.2011 Idrija - The oldest Slovenian mining town, Idrija, which is situated in the Alpine foothills, assumed the title of the Alpine Town of 2011, becoming the 14th town from the eight Alpine countries to receive the title since its induction in 1995. The title is conferred by an association of Alpine

Slovenian language

2011-02-07T15:07:00.001-05:00

Image via WikipediaI always knew Slovenian language was more difficult to learn than most other foreign languages. Throughout the years of using and understanding English better and better I realized many times over that there are some terms in Slovenian that cannot be properly translated into English (and the other way around, of course). However, hearing about Slovenian language from an English

Florida in 1925

2011-02-05T13:41:00.000-05:00

Image by sunflower19020 via FlickrA few months ago I got a hold of an old book about Slovenian Americans, printed and published in 1925 by SNPJ, written by Jože Zavertnik. It's written in an old Slovenian language which means I have to read certain sentences three times before I fully understand them. Many of the words, used in the text have not been in use for a long time and others are

Lake Bled, Slovenia

2011-01-13T23:47:00.000-05:00

Image via WikipediaI like to hear what other people have to say about beautiful places in Slovenia. I've visited and experienced them countless times and know very well how breathtakingly beautiful some of them are. And that's why articles like the one below make me smile and I like sharing them with you. Lake Bled in Gorenjska region is one of those places that has been an inspiration to many

New Year's Dance with Bob Turcola

2011-01-08T12:46:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, on January 2, 2011, SNPJ Lodge 778 in Spring Hill hosted the New Year's Dance with Bob Turcola for the second time in a row. The five-piece band sounded great and so did the jammers who took the stage twice. The attendance was decent and everyone had fun. Here are some photos I took at this first successful event of the season at the Slovenian-American Club's Spring Hill Hall. Bob

Krizanke, Ljubljana

2011-01-01T09:16:00.000-05:00

Photo "Krizanke, Ljubljana" - courtesy of Vojko Dular Photographer’s Note from web The Knights of the Cross monastery stands by the southwest edge of the former fortified medieval nucleus of Ljubljana, above the New Square (Novi trg). It was built in the middle of the 13th century and redone in 1567. It was first mentioned in 1265. In the walls and lapidary, the stones, with their Gothic and

Portrait, bigger than a football field in Ljubljana, Slovenia

2010-12-27T10:40:00.003-05:00

I'm going to need a bigger paintbrush: Artist's incredible portraits that are bigger than a football fieldBy DAILY MAIL REPORTER Huge ideas spread over canvases bigger than football fields and onto the sides of buildings is how Jorge Rodriguez Gerada expresses his art. The Cuban lives in Barcelona and has spent the past decade creating his Identity and Terrestrial Series, across Europe and

Ljubljana, Slovenia

2010-09-01T22:02:00.000-04:00

Image via WikipediaToday I found this interesting article, written by an American, visiting Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana. . The Hidden Gems of This Capital City Published August 26, 2010 by: Cleo Louise Source . "Ne razumem! Ne razumem!" ("I don't understand!") is undoubtedly a valuable phrase to memorize when conversing with people in Slovenia. Luckily, the majority of citizens in Ljubljana

Slovenian mount Raduha

2010-08-09T16:02:00.002-04:00

Image via Wikipedia: Hut on Grohot meadow under mt. RaduhaTadej Štalekar from Mislinjska Dobrava in Slovenia was kind enough to let me use his photos from his recent Alpine-climbing trip to Kamnik-Savinja Alps in municipality Luče. Mount Raduha (6765 ft / 2062 m) is a peak that offers magnificent views all around. Its SE slopes are covered with spruce forests and meadows to approximately 1600

Slovenefest 2010 music and praises

2010-07-27T13:42:00.003-04:00

After talking to several people who attended XXIX Slovenefest in Enon Valley, PA, I have an impression that this was certainly an event well worth experiencing and that I better make sure to be there myself next year... :) Though, the sweetest testimonial I received from Agnes & Lou Lyman who have also never been at this Slovenian fest at the SNPJ Recreation Center before: We just returned from

SNPJ Slovenefest XXIX

2010-07-12T15:33:00.003-04:00

Image via Wikipedia Enon Valley, PennsylvaniaThis past weekend (Friday through Sunday, July 9-11, 2010) Slovenefest at the SNPJ Recreational Center in Enon Valley, Pennsylvania, was the biggest event with Slovenian food, music and dancing in the country. I heard from a few people that were attending this festive event. They all told me the same thing: the music and crowds were good and the

Sunset photography from around the world

2010-07-07T17:45:00.004-04:00

Author of all the photos in this post is Larry Zaletel ©. Thank you, Larry - for sharing them with all of us!! :) Kona, Hawaii Kona in Hawaii Kona - Hawaii Petrovac na moru - Montenegro Sveti Stefan - Montenegro Related articles by ZemantaHighlights of Hawaii's Kona Coast (hawaii-travel.suite101.com) Off to Montenegro! (mneylon.me) Montenegro Rocks! (michele.me)

Independence Day lyrics

2010-07-02T06:10:00.000-04:00

Photo "American Flag on Independence Day - July 4, 2008" - courtesy of agdenza Independence Day Lyrics Artist: Martina McBride Well she seemed all right by dawn's early light Though she looked a little worried and weak She tried to pretend he wasn't drinkin' again But daddy left the proof on her cheek and I was only eight years old that summer And I always seemed to be in the way So I took

Slovenian Unveiling Wedding Traditions

2010-07-01T09:40:00.015-04:00

Image above: Alpine valley of Krnica in Triglav National Park, Slovenia via WikipediaI once asked Bob Kravos what was the very favorite CD of his. He replied, “Unveiling.” I must have given him a blank look because a moment later he was explaining to me, “You know, that Slovenian wedding tradition. When the bride's veil is removed...” It's time for me to admit that I had absolutely no

Florida sunsets

2010-06-30T08:00:00.003-04:00

As I've been spending quite some time away from the computer this spring and summer, I've managed to take a sizable collection of sunset photos on some Florida's west coast beaches. Here's a handful, especially for you. They were all taken with my cell phone though, so they are not the highest quality. Photo above: Sunset on Pine Island, Hernando County Photo above: Sunset on Sunset Beach,

New image

2010-06-29T17:29:00.001-04:00

I decided to change the look of this blog, to make it look more cheerful and summery (to match the season) - and easier to browse. I hope you like it... Photo "Early morning in a Somerset poppy field" - courtesy of Carl Loves Somerset ***

Slovenia independence

2010-06-25T21:56:00.013-04:00

Image above: President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama pose for a photo during a reception at the Metropolitan Museum in New York with Slovenian president Danilo Türk and his wife Barbara Miklič Türk - via WikipediaJune 25, 2010 marked 19th anniversary of Slovenia's independence. 76 Slovenians died during the ten-day independence war. That's how Slovenians first won their statehood

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-19T13:14:00.002-04:00

Image by Te55  - M♥R1E via FlickrOn this special day I'd like to share with you two famous quotes. I looked through many, some even brought tears to my eyes - but the following two touched my heart most deeply. I sure wish I could see my dad (I call him "oči") today and give him a hug... He didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it. ~Clarence Budington Kelland It is

Just let me go to the football

2010-06-17T17:43:00.003-04:00

Since most of the world seems to be focused on everything about soccer these days, I decided to go with the flow and post some more fun videos for you. Both of the videos below are music videos, inspired by football/soccer. Watch when it gets too hot to be outside (happens quite often to me these days). First, here's polka "Na fuzbal me pust'" (Just let me go to the football game), performed by

Slovenian soccer fairytale continues

2010-06-13T10:48:00.004-04:00

Image via Wikipedia "Slovenian soccer fairytale continues," were the words of American reporter on ABC TV channel - after Slovenia won their first game at the FIFA world championship in South Africa. Midfielder Robert Koren's late goal 'handed Slovenia their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory as well as the top spot in Group C as they beat 10-man Algeria 1-0 in Polokwane.' Slovenia is the

Bessemer Accordion Festival 2010

2010-06-04T19:23:00.003-04:00

My online friend Larry Zaletel was kind enough to send me this photo, taken at Bessemer Accordion Festival in Pennsylvania this past weekend. It's always good to see what our members and guests are doing all summer long. Photo above: Linda Hochevar, Frank Moravcik and The Happy Timers at Bessemer Accordion Festival 2010 Related articles by ZemantaEverybody Polka! Turn your Windows PC or Mac

Polka Film

2010-05-28T12:58:00.001-04:00

Image via WikipediaNational Slovenian TV made a great documentary movie in two parts - about things that are very familiar to most of us. It's title is: "Polka film: O glasbi, klobasah in Slovencih v Ameriki" (Polka Film: About Music, Klobase and Slovenians in America." Part 1 is mostly in Slovenian but there are some popular polka musicians and other well known people of Slovenian heritage

Slovenia's Got Talent

2010-05-25T08:00:00.002-04:00

You might be interested to watch the video below. 15 year old Slovenian girl Tina Drole from Cerkno became a finalist of "Slovenija ima talent" (Slovenia's Got Talent). She sure is and excellent jodeler... :) ***

Season 2010/2011 temporary schedule

2010-05-24T07:00:00.007-04:00

Some of the dances for the upcoming season 2010/2011 are scheduled. You can see the dates at: SNPJ Lodge 778 in Spring Hill, Florida - Schedule of Events (click on the link above, it opens a new window) More events will be added as soon as all the arrangements are made. Photo above: Nezka and Jim ***

Timeless Slovenian Waltz

2010-05-23T12:27:00.003-04:00

"Jadraj z menoj" (Sail with me) is one of the most famous Avsenik's waltzes of all times and has been around for many years. Still, this is also one of those evergreen, timelessly young and fresh melodies that are always new-like - when performed by another talented ensemble. I instantly fell in love with one of the latest versions of "Jadraj z menoj" (Sail with me), performed for the first

Ansambel Osminka

2010-05-11T08:00:00.025-04:00

For all of you who are planning to be at the biggest annual celebration of ethnic culture - Slovenefest 2010, held every second weekend of July at the SNPJ Recreation Center in the Borough of SNPJ (Enon Valley), PA - it's no news that there will be lots of popular polka bands entertaining visitors for three days: Bob Turcola Orchestra, Mikey Dee Band, Dick Tady Orchestra, Fred Ziwich & the ISM,

Folk Rock - Narodnozabavni Rock

2010-05-10T13:33:00.001-04:00

Slovenian Eurovision Song Contest (EMA) took place on February 21st of 2010. An overwhelming winner was the song "Narodnozabavni rock" (Folk Rock or Polka Rock), performed by two groups: popular folk band "Ansambel Roka Žlindre" (Rok Žlindra Ensemble) and popular rock band "Kalamari" (Calamari) The tune is an interesting mix of button box - pop - polka music and rock rhythm which obviously took

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T00:01:00.000-04:00

Photo Mother's Day Bouquet - courtesy of Ko&Ka Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever. ~Author Unknown Happy Mother's dayto all the moms out there!! :) And especially for all the mommies today, a very heartfelt song by Majda Sepe - "Poj, kitara mojega srca" (Sing, My Heart's Guitar). Lyrics in Slovenian (partial): Prelep je dan, sonce se smehlja kot

Oto Pestner

2010-05-08T21:41:00.000-04:00

Oto Pestner is my all times favorite Slovenian singer with beautiful voice, no matter what kind of music he is singing. I haven't heard this melody (in the video below) in the past ten years and today someone posted it on Facebook. It made me quite happy and here I'm sharing it with You: Oto Pestner and "Ljubim te, Slovenia" (I Love You, Slovenia). And if you're not a fan of Slovenian pop

National flower of Slovenia

2010-04-26T11:39:00.010-04:00

As my birthday gift (a gift from me to you on my birthday) I'm sharing with you this beautiful picture of carnation, the national flower of Slovenia. I took the photo in my front yard and since the bloom is so bright red, it took me quite a few shots before I got the color right. Photo above: Red carnation, Slovenian national flower Many of you are probably familiar with the fact that Slovenia

SNPJ Prosveta

2010-04-21T12:56:00.002-04:00

There are certain things that I really enjoy reading - besides books. So I keep those issues of magazines, flower catalogs and/or newspapers on the dining room table and enjoy them one page at the time. Newspaper Prosveta is one of those publications. All the SNPJ Insured Members know about Prosveta, official publication of the Slovene National Benefit Society and source for SNPJ news. It's

Video memories of Snowflake Dance 2010

2010-04-16T11:23:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was just playing around, throwing together that short video in previous post and today I finally got my act together and created another video about Snowflake Dance 2010... ;) I'm just kidding, I very much enjoyed making both of them. It is true, though, that it's been a while since I created my last video so I felt a little bit rusty and on top of that, I wanted to do some things

Fun Snowflake Dance 2010 video

2010-04-15T18:17:00.001-04:00

I have moments when I feel like creating something fun and today was one of those times and here's the result: This is a handful of photos from the Snowflake Dance 2010 with Frank Moravcik and as a background I chose a tune from the list of oldies: Artist: Leslie Smith Song: Can't Get Enough Of You Hope you like it! :) PS: I'll make more like this one as soon as I figure out how to strip

Festival Slovenian Polka and Waltz

2010-04-12T19:22:00.004-04:00

I'm on my laptop, waiting for the "16. festival SLOVENSKA POLKA IN VALČEK" (16th Festival Slovenian Polka and Waltz) to start live on TV Slovenia 1. 14 new tunes, all performed live, straight from the crib of the Cleveland-Style... :) "Festival SLOVENSKA POLKA IN VALČEK" is the biggest folk music event in Slovenia and the winning groups (one in Polka and one in "Valček" - Waltz category) usually

Frank Mahnic Jr. Obituary

2010-04-09T13:15:00.000-04:00

Frank Mahnic Jr.MAHNIC, Frank Jr. 92, of Dunedin, died April 4, 2010. Born in Brooklyn, NY he grew up in Terre Haute, IN and later relocated to the D.C. area where he worked for the USDA as an accountant and served as Commander for American Legion Post 36. During WWII, he served as Engineering Officer on B29's. Survivors include wife, Bernice; son, Bob; daughters, Sharon and Diane; 5

New officers

2010-04-08T09:29:00.002-04:00

At yesterday's Board Meeting our SNPJ Lodge 778 elected new officers: John Laurich - president Mary Ann Hiltz - vice president Rita Hren - treasurer New officers sworn in: Thank you all for accepting these important functions. We all wish you the best of success and promise to do our best with anything that needs to be done for our upcoming events to run smoothly. ***

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T16:13:00.004-04:00

Nothing says "spring" for me as loud and clear and cheerful as Narcissus - daffodil flower. Every time I see that happy, bright yellow bloom, the memories of my grandmother's backyard take me to another space and time, to the days of my carefree childhood in idyllic Slovenia. There I spent many hours observing all kinds of beautiful wildflowers or blooms in my granny's garden, sunbathing on the

Slovenia Facts

2010-03-28T23:23:00.000-04:00

This interesting article about Slovenia facts appeared on Oregon Live website a few days ago and I decided to post it here for you to enjoy it, too. Thursday's Edge: Everything you ever wanted to know about SloveniaBy The OregonianMarch 25, 2010, 4:30AM Happy Mother's Day to all of our readers in Slovenia! Yep, you can look it up, today is the big day for all the moms in one of our favorite

Slovenian Waltz 2009

2010-03-24T07:53:00.003-04:00

While I'm working on videos and photos taken at the last three events, here's some more popular "narodno-zabavna glasba" (folk music), made in Slovenia. For today I chose for you Slovenian Waltz of the year 2009 "Del srca" (Piece of Heart) by a very successful and popular, young Slovenian ensemble: Ansambel Roka Žlindre (Rok Žlindra Ensemble) Rok Žlindra (band leader and button accordion

Important updates

2010-03-23T07:02:00.005-04:00

I have to admit that my online life has been pretty adventurous ever since 2009 turned into 2010. I have no intention to bore You with technical details of everything that happened (completely out of my control), so I'm only updating everyone on the part that might have affected You. There were some major issues on the webhosting server where my SNPJ 778 e-mailing list of subscribers is saved

Friendship memorial for Ray Sholar

2010-03-22T12:49:00.000-04:00

Photo above: Ray Sholar at the SNPJ 778 February board meeting in 2009 Ray Sholar was one of the founders of our SNPJ Spring Hill Lodge 778. I remember him coming to all the board meetings and every other event, he was always kind, in a good mood and smiling. The last time I saw him he came in really early so we got to talk some more than usually. Friendship memorial for Ray Sholar is scheduled

Slovenian Polka 2009

2010-03-13T07:56:00.001-05:00

I'll be away for a few days so I'm sending some energizing Slovenian music your way. :) First, here's best Slovenian polka of 2009 by Ansambel Golte (Golte Ensemble): "Če te luna nosi" The title seems kind of difficult to translate - it's something like "Moonwalking" - you know, the kind that happens to men who are totally in love and all they can see and think about are their sweetheart's

Sunday afternoon dance with Virgil Baker

2010-03-12T10:32:00.002-05:00

.Virgil Baker, playing at SNPJ 778 Spring Hill hall in March of 2009 Slovenian-American Club - SNPJ 778 Spring Hill Hall 13383 County Line Rd, Spring Hill, FL 34609 is hosting a traditional Sunday Afternoon with Virgil Baker on Sunday, March 21, 2010 with: live music dancing jamming ethnic foods

About the Spring Festival 2010

2010-03-09T14:36:00.000-05:00

Our SNPJ 778 Spring Hill Hall was lively with good music, dancing and jamming all week long (Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 5 - 7, 2010). . . . . I caught a lot of happy faces on my camera, the attendees looked like they had fun. . . ......We had ethnic parade on Saturday and our national SNPJ president Joseph Evanish from headquarters in Pennsylvania attending our event (photo below):....We

Spring Festival in Spring Hill

2010-02-24T21:12:00.000-05:00

If you live somewhere up north and you're still debating whether to come to Spring Hill, Florida some time soon or not, look out your window and then look at the two photos below, taken in my neighbors' front yard two days ago. What would you rather have: Spring Festival in Spring Hill - or snow and cold? . . Photo: Linda.. Photo: Linda.. To find out more about our upcoming events, click on the

Slovenian Style Polka Music

2010-02-16T10:58:00.002-05:00

If you have an hour to spare and you're in a mood for some good Slovenian style polka music, watch the video below. Underneath the video I am including a short transcript (since the whole thing is in Slovenian language), the list of performers and some information about the musicians. Please let me know if you enjoyed this post. In case I get a good feedback, I'll do something like this again,

Majolika - Majol'ka, Maiolica - Majolica

2010-02-15T18:28:00.008-05:00

Photo above: Slovenian Majolka (Maiolica)Source: nms.si I went to the dictionary.com to get some help with explaining of this word: ma⋅jol⋅i⋅ca [muh-jol-i-kuh, muh-yol-] ma⋅iol⋅i⋅ca [muh-yol-i-kuh] Noun:Italian earthenware covered with an opaque glaze of tin oxide and usually highly decorated. any earthenware having an opaque glaze of tin oxide. "maiolica." Online Etymology Dictionary. Douglas

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T13:49:00.006-05:00

It takes more then lace and ribbons And lovely verses too, To make a Valentine Thats nice enough for you It takes a world of special thoughts Tucked into every line And that's exactly what you'll find Inside this Valentine. . . Photo above: "Gingerbread hearts piled-up" (lectovi srčki na kupu) - courtesy of http://www.slovenian-alps.com . . These are the kind of hearts (see photo above) that

Spring Festival

2010-02-11T17:42:00.003-05:00

Slovene-American Club - SNPJ Lodge 778 Spring Hill Hall - Suncoast Dance & Party Center 13383 County Line Rd, Spring Hill, FL 34609 is hosting a traditional Spring Festival on March 5, 6 and 7, 2010 with: dancing jamming ethnic food and golfing OPEN TO PUBLIC, EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Schedule: Friday, March 5 *************** Music by: Bob Turcola from Youngstown, Ohio Food served: 5

Glas harmonike

2010-02-10T20:16:00.007-05:00

The second tune that received the title of "2009 Greatest All-Time Hit Song" (2 elected)at the XXII Polkas International Award Show in Cleveland, Ohiois also a waltzGLAS HARMONIKEorTHE HAPPY ACCORDIONby famous Slovenian composer and band leader Lojze Slak. In the video below, Bobby Kravos with Walter Ostanek and the Boys In The Band was kind enough to perform it for me while playing at our SNPJ

Youtube videos of Jam Sessions - January 2010

2010-02-05T13:06:00.005-05:00

Unfortunately, I missed the whole Jam Session at the dance with Bob Kravos and Walter Ostanek but I did manage to take some tunes during the Frank Moravcik weekend and here (below) is the list of them. Like before, simply click on the title of the song and a new window (with the video) will open: Top of the Hill Polka - Jam session Trzinka - Jam session Kamnik Polka - Jam Session ***

Youtube videos Frank Moravcik weekend 2010

2010-02-03T00:13:00.005-05:00

I have quite a few videos from the past two weekends (three dances) and it would take me a while to publish them all here, in the blog posts. For the last nine days or so I've been fixing and uploading these videos and now that they are all live/published online, they deserve to be seen, especially by the people (You!) - who are in these videos. They all turned out pretty good so I'm

Bob Kravos - Happy Birthday!!

2010-02-01T07:06:00.006-05:00

We had great crowds and lots of fun with Bob Kravos, Walter Ostanek and The Boys In The Band on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at our SNPJ Spring Hill hall. Photo above: Bob Kravos (accordion), Walter Ostanek (accordion) and John Gerl (drums) playing at SNPJ 778 Spring Hill Since January 30th is also Bob's birthday and he had to play to himself by himself on his special day, I asked him to play his

Bob Kravos

2010-01-28T21:59:00.002-05:00

Many of us are looking forward to this Saturday dance at our SNPJ Spring Hill hall - with live music by: Bob Kravos - great nephew of Frank Yankovic from Cleveland, Ohio and guest appearance of Walter Ostanek, the Canada's Polka King . . Video above: Bob Kravos and the Boys in the Band playing My Polka Lovin' Gal at SNPJ Farm . . Saturday, January 30th, 2010 Schedule: Food served 5 – 7PM

Linda Hochevar

2010-01-27T19:01:00.001-05:00

Linda Hochevar is a beautiful lady with a life-long passion for polka music. Also and excellent dancer, she plays button box accordion playfully and with ease. To anyone who observes Linda Hochevar playing, button box looks like a lot of fun. . . Video above: Linda Hochevar playing at the jam session at SNPJ Spring Hill hall on January 24, 2010 with: Frank Moravcik, Walt Harfmann, Kurt Harfmann,

68th Wedding Anniversary

2010-01-26T16:33:00.001-05:00

This past Sunday (January 24, 2010) at our dance with Frank Moravcik we had a couple of very dedicated "polka people" who drove to our SNPJ Spring Hill Hall all the way from Fort Meyers on the East coast of Florida. The dedicated 'Ohio Polka Friends' names are Ralph and Kathryn Knick, who are celebrating their 68th Wedding Anniversary on February 7th, 2010. . . Photo above: Ralph and Kathryn

Waltz of Love

2010-01-25T21:43:00.007-05:00

I've been waiting for an opportunity to take a video of someone playing the Waltz of Love since last Thanksgiving. Finally, this Saturday (January 23, 2009) Frank Moravcik with his group of musicians granted my wish and here's the result to enjoy - for everyone who loves one of the most romantic Cleveland-Style songs of all times - that received the title of "2009 Greatest All-Time Hit Song" (2

Frank Moravcik Weekend

2010-01-18T19:49:00.002-05:00

Frank Moravcik with his band is someone we know pretty well at our Spring Hill Hall - and enjoy his music very much. He is playing again for two of our dances this Saturday and Sunday. We expect great crowds and lots of fun for everyone that attends this weekend's events. Everybody and your friends are welcome! This is the video, taken by Ed Klasa, from last year's Snowflake Dance at Suncoast

Accordion Jam Fest

2010-01-14T12:57:00.003-05:00

WMNF Accordion Jam Fest Saturday, January 16th, 2010 Polish American Pulaski Hall of Holiday, Florida 4616 Darlington Rd. Holiday Florida MAP 1:30pm until 4:30pm Tickets are $5.00 per person Children 12 and Under are FREE Students are just $1.00 Food and Beverages will be available! ALL MUSICIANS ARE WELCOME! Special guests Joe Oberaitis, Tony Lovello,Walter Kasprzyk and Carmen Vitanza,

Florida Sunset

2010-01-12T19:05:00.001-05:00

The big window across from my desk faces west and I feel very lucky to be able to see another world-wide famous Florida sunset every day, even when I'm not on the beach - but working on my laptop. I only close the blinds after all the stunning colors of another Florida sunset fade away, into the darkness of the night sky. On this (another) record cold January night, it feels really warm and

Jam sessions regulars at Spring Hill hall

2010-01-09T12:37:00.005-05:00

At our SNPJ Spring Hill hall we have jam sessions at most every event hosted by Slovene-American Club. For March Days weekend event musicians from around the country join-in the fun an play with such a passion and uplifting energy that everyone present either dances - or taps with their feet or fingers - to the cheerful beat of polkas and waltzes. However, there are some musicians jamming at our

Wedding Anniversary

2010-01-07T10:10:00.002-05:00

We have heard about quite a few very impressive wedding anniversaries at the board meetings in our SNPJ 778 Spring Hill hall. At the moment I don't have the whole list with all the names and numbers but I did manage to take two photos of one of the hardest working couple from our Lodge. . . . . The president of our Club Ben Drongosky and his wife Carol celebrated 52nd wedding anniversary in

Spring Hill hall

2010-01-06T21:55:00.005-05:00

Spring Hill hall Suncoast Dance & Party Center on 13383 County Line is available to rent for: Weddings Picnics Meetings Banquets Shows Dances Anniversary parties Mini conventions Expos and other events for up to 350 people For a limited time this Spring Hill hall is running a BABY SHOWER SPECIAL For additional info about renting the hall for your baby shower at a discounted price - or with any

Happy New Year

2009-12-30T13:36:00.001-05:00

Photo "Happy 2010" - courtesy of H.Ue . . I don't know who is the author of the verses below. I received them in one forwarded email and knew right away that this is the one I will share with all of you. . . My Wish for You in 2010 May peace break into your home and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet for $100 bills. May love stick to your

Joey Tomsick

2009-12-28T10:34:00.002-05:00

Polkas International 2009 Annual Achievement Awards Show By many who participated the XXII Awards Show at Slovenian National Home in Cleveland, Ohio, on November 28, 2009 - it was nicknamed "The Year of Joey Tomsick" - due to many awards Joey and his Orchestra won: Best Musician - Individual: Joey Tomsick Best Musician - Sideman: Hank Guzel and Phil Hrvatin (both from Joey Tomsick Orchestra

Ron Likovic

2009-12-27T15:31:00.002-05:00

Polkas International 2009 Annual Achievement Award Nominees in the category Button Box - Individual/Duo were: Ron Likovic Joe Grkman Jr. Joe Novak Ron Pivovar Fred Ziwich and voted best was Ron Likovic, one of the musicians that surely won't be forgotten any time soon by anyone who saw him playing at Marriott in Downtown Cleveland this Thanksgiving. . . Ron Likovic playing at Tony

Yodeling - listen

2009-12-26T13:27:00.009-05:00

We probably all agree that yodeling is not the easiest thing to do, this 11 year-old girl in the video below sure mastered it to perfection and all by herself - with a yodeling track and an instruction book - one summer when she was only 7 years old and had nothing better to do. Yodeling - listen to Taylor Ware... . . . Taylor Ware yodeling. . . . ***

Waltz Christmas songs

2009-12-25T20:16:00.001-05:00

While most of the waltz Christmas songs I've been listening to for the past couple of weeks, came from the Home for Christmas CD by (well known to all of us) Canada's Polka King and 3 time Grammy winner Walter Ostanek - I've also been on a mission, searching Internet for some waltz Christmas songs to share with you. I have to say, polka Christmas tunes were much easier to find, though... :) . . .

Polka Christmas utube

2009-12-25T07:12:00.004-05:00

This morning I asked mine and Nick's good friend Phillip from Australia to play a cheerful Christmas Polka for all of us - and this is what he came up with... enjoy!! :) German Christmas song: "Kling Kling Glockchen Klingelingeling" or in Slovenian: "Zvončki na saneh" . . Then I discovered "The Merry Christmas Polka" by Freddy Martin and information that This classic 3-part CD set From the

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T12:36:00.001-05:00

. Photo courtesy of Chobopop "Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget." . With this thought, I wish you a very Merry Christmas, all the Happiest Holidays and all the luck the New Year could possibly bring to you. ***

Done shopping?

2009-12-23T16:56:00.000-05:00

If you're now done shopping for all the last minute gifts, it's time to relax and start planning some fun things to do in the next few days - and until everything goes "back to normal" after Santa delivers all of his gifts, after all the delicious and calorie-rich Christmas goodies are consumed, after returning the unwanted or unfitted presents to the customer services around the country,

The Purple Star award

2009-12-07T14:07:00.010-05:00

This morning I received the Purple Star award for the third time in a row and I have to admit that it makes my day - sunrise to sunset - every time I receive an email like this one:Hey Daria,Good news. Scratch that. GREAT news.Your lens has been awarded a purple star!"Green Cleaning Formulas"http://www.squidoo.com/unusual-cleaning-solutionsPurple stars are awarded weekly to our favorite lenses

Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame

2009-12-06T08:39:00.012-05:00

My visit to the National Cleveland style Polka Hall of Fame in Euclid - dedicated to the preservation and promotion of polka music, 'the happiest sound around' - was memorable. . . Photo above: Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame Euclid Ohio building on 605 East 222nd Street . . The Polka Hall of Fame and Museum is located in the historic, former City Hall of Euclid, Ohio, in close proximity

Friday snow

2009-12-05T06:00:00.002-05:00

As I'm sitting at my desk in my Central Florida home, sipping jasmine green tea and looking at my laptop screen while thinking about my Cleveland trip, the memory of that early Friday morning in Northfield, Ohio makes me smile. . . Photo above: Friday snow and sunrise in Northfield, Ohio . . When I first woke up that morning I instinctively knew there had to be snow outside. The next thing I

Tony Petkovsek Thanksgiving Polka Party

2009-12-04T12:12:00.005-05:00

In one of the best hotels Cleveland has to offer, in the Downtown Cleveland Marriott Hotel, there was a traditional Thanksgiving Polka Party going on this past weekend - also known as Tony Petkovsek's 48th Annual Cleveland-Style Polka Extravaganza. . . Photo above: Crowds at the Thanksgiving Polka Party at the Downtown Cleveland Marriott Hotel - one of the jam sessions I was attending the

Piano accordion master

2009-11-26T08:00:00.002-05:00

Here's another masterpiece by Štajerskih sedem (Štajerskih 7) and especially their piano accordion player: Slalom za harmoniko (Accordion Slalom) - in case you enjoyed yesterday's post and you have some time to spend on your computer these days.***

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Wishing you all a beautiful Thanksgiving Day, no matter where you are and who you're celebrating with - with some quotes and uplifting music videos. French Proverb: Gratitude is the heart's memory. For today's occasion I chose an older group that has been around for decades: Štajerskih sedem. Below is their polka about the happy dancing. They have always been very popular, their music and

Happy polka video

2009-11-24T09:06:00.001-05:00

I found this video of Slovenian group named Pop'n'dekl - which means carton - in Germanic-Slovenian slang. I won't go into the details of lyrics - so I don't get accused of something ;) - in short, this tune sings about Franček (Frank) who liked his flute and girls, of course.These guys from Pop'n'dekl group say about themselves that rumors about them being half way nuts is a complete

Thanksgiving Dinner and Dance

2009-11-23T10:36:00.006-05:00

Everyone who attended yesterday's Thanksgiving Dinner and Dance had a good time. Thanks to Eileen, the tables were nicely decorated (we received several compliments for that) and - also thanks to Eileen, we had a nice variety of pies and some other pastries. The food was good, all the credits go to chef Richard and everyone else who helped with cooking, baking and serving food, the music was a

Polka music future continued

2009-11-17T06:51:00.004-05:00

Response to Polka music future post - by Walt HarfmannDaria,This past summer we went to Slovenia, Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic, as you know.We were stunned, in Austria, Slovenia, and also southern Germany, at how many young people are very interested in Folk music, or as in Austria & Germany, Volksmusik.From our last visit in 2001, to this trip, 2009, We would have to say that there

Polka music future

2009-11-16T09:12:00.007-05:00

Lately, there's been a lot of discussion (at the meetings as well as certain newspapers) - about Slovenian Style (Cleveland Style) Polka music losing it's followers and popularity in United States. For some reason this kind of statements don't resonate with me so I did some research. See for yourself (below) what kind of polka music and performers I discovered. Video below: Marko Mikiš (

Steve Juricic and Tropical Squeeze

2009-11-10T16:16:00.004-05:00

To give you a taste of music we're going to dance to at this season's first event - Thanksgiving Dinner Dance - here's a video of Steve Juricic and Tropical Squeeze, a Slovenian Style Polka Band. These guys strut their stuff in the Tampa Bay Area. Tropical Squeeze is Steve Juricic - Accordion-ItaloBass-Lead Vocal, Mike Pavlin - Bass - Button Box, Bill Rochon - Accordion - X4, Dick Smith - Drums

SNPJ 778 temporary schedule of events for the coming 2009/2010 season

2009-10-11T07:06:00.018-04:00

2009 - 2010 Activities/Dance Schedule Here's the list of events scheduled so far for Slovene-American Club (SNPJ 778 Hall or Suncoast Dance and Party Center on County Line Road in Spring Hill): Thanksgiving Dinner Dance Date: Sunday, November 22 of 2009 Music by: Steve Juricic and the Tropical Squeeze Schedule: dinner: 12 - 1:30 PM dance: 2 - 5 PM Admission: dinner &