Vytis - The Knight March/April 2014

Vytis (The Knight) Knights of Lithuania

Supreme Council Officers

2013 – 2014

Spiritual Advisor Rev. Msgr. Joseph Anderlonis, STD, HM St. George Rectory 3580 Salmon St. Philadelphia, PA 19134 (215) 739-3102

March-Apr – 2014 – kovas-balandis Volume 100 – Number 2

VYTIS (THE KNIGHT) (ISSN 0042-9384) (Postal Permit # 663-680) is published seven times per year: bi-monthly and one extra issue in September by the KNIGHTS OF LITHUANIA, 3420 South Lituanica, Chicago, IL 60608-6720. Subscription is $25.00 per year. Single copy $5.00. Outside USA $35.00 per year, single copy $6.00. Periodical postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional mailing locations.

Mailing Address: 3420 South Lituanica Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60608-6720

Tel/fax: 1.312.771.7432 Email: [email protected]

Fax (215) 739-7217

President Regina Juška-Švoba, HM 1594 Beaupre Madison Hts., MI 48071 Tel (248) 547-2859 Fax (248) 547-0982 [email protected] 1st Vice President Catherine Nakrosis 747 Schuyler Avenue

VYTIS – The Knight – STAFF Editor: Robert A. Martin, Jr., HM

Business Manager: Phyllis Gendreau Council News Editor: Irene Macke

Send all District and Council News to: 6618 Osceola Trail

Indian Head Park, IL 60525 Email: [email protected]

Knights of Lithuania Web page: www.knightsoflithuania.com 100th Anniversary Web page: www.knightsoflithuania100thanniversary.org

Send all articles & photos to:

VYTIS (THE KNIGHT) 3420 South Lituanica Avenue

Chicago, IL 60608-6720

Tel:1.312.771.7432 Email: [email protected]

Kearny, NJ 07032-4233 (201) 997-3445 [email protected]

2nd Vice President Andrew Berczelly 422 Carters Grove Road Centerville, OH 45459 (937) 254-9222 [email protected]

3rd Vice President Lexie Rudmin 929 West 34th Place Chicago, IL 60608 (773) 523-4305 [email protected]

Recording Secretary Ellie Nakrosis, HM 10 Park Avenue Kearny, NJ 07032 Tel: (201) 998-9641 Cell: (201) 294-4250 [email protected]

Treasurer Bernice Aviza, HM 8 Tremont ST Albany, NY 12205 (518) 459-5256 [email protected]

Financial Secretary June Grenier 4029 West Twin Oaks Street Broken Arrow, OK 74011 (918) 459-8047 jvg159@ windstream.net

Trustees Robert D. Petkus 1707 Leo St Dayton, OH 45404-1915 (937) 222-3844 [email protected]

Mary Beth Slakis 18263 Murphy Circle Tinley Park, IL 60477 (708) 337-0193 [email protected]

Legal Advisor Saulius V. Kuprys, Esq. Henehan, Donovan & Issacson 150 S. Wacker Dr. #1050 Chicago, IL 60606 W (312) 346-5275 [email protected]

VYTIS Editor Robert A. Martin, Jr., HM 3420 S. Lituanica Ave Chicago, IL 60608-6720 (312) 771.7432 [email protected]

VYTIS Business Manager Phyllis Gendreau 38 Rocky Nook Malden, MA 02148-1561 (781) 321-4880 [email protected]

Webmaster Alex Fletcher 6403 Silver Pheasant Court Dayton, OH 45424 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Lithuanian Language & Cultural Chair. Dolores Herbert 5985 Jeannette St Philadelphia, PA 19128-1616 (H) (215) 483-6460 (C) (267) 971-8856 [email protected]

Lithuanian Affairs Chair John R. Mankus, HM 1110 Darlene Drive Endicott, NY 13760 Tel/Fax (607) 754-1241 [email protected]

Honorary Memb. Chair. Walter Svekla, HM (Amber) 44 Clemson Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-1214 (609) 667-7074 [email protected] Rita Sussko, HM (MAD) Robert Martin, HM (MAMD) Elinor Sluzas, HM (MCD) Veronica Bizinkauskas, HM (NED)

Public Relations Chair Regina Juska-Svoba, HM 1594 Beaupre Madison Hts., MI 48071 Tel (248) 547-2859 Fax (248) 547-0982 [email protected]

Ritual Chair. Georgianna Macke (MAMD) 1351 Fairfield Court Naperville, IL 60565 (630) 416-0658 [email protected] Lillian Greymas (Amber) Lee Moore, HM (MCD) Rita Sussko, HM (MAD) Clemencine Miller, HM (NED)

Scholarship Chair Elena Mikalauskas (MCD) 4929 Arrowhead Drive Kettering, OH 45440 (937) 434-8367 [email protected] Robert Damasauskas (MAMD) Meredith Domalakes (Amber) Antoinette Sakal (MAD) June V. Grenier (NED)

Archives Chair. Currently Vacant Our Lady of Šiluva Fund, Inc. Pres.– Rev. Anthony Markus, HM St. Pius X Rectory 4314 S. Oak Park Ave. Stickney, IL 60402-0000 Tel (708) 484-7951 Fax (708) 749-8518 Website: www.ourladyofsiluva.org

K of L Foundation, Inc. Pres – Irene Ozalis 2557 E Ontario ST Philadelphia, PA 19134 (215) 426-6762

St. Casimir Guild, Inc. John R. Mankus, HM 1110 Darlene Drive Endicott, NY 13760 Tel/Fax (607) 754-1241 [email protected]

Amber District Pres. – John R. Mankus, HM 1110 Darlene Drive Endicott, NY 13760 Tel/Fax (607) 754-1241 [email protected]

Mid-America District Pres. – Aldona Zajauskas 27859 W Lake Shore Dr Spring Grove, IL 60081 Tel (847) 587-1419 [email protected] Website: http://knightsoflithuaniamid-america.weebly.com

Mid-Atlantic District Pres. – Ellie Nakrosis, HM 10 Park Avenue Kearny, NJ 07032 Tel: (201) 998-9641 Cell: (201) 294-4250 [email protected]

Mid-Central District Pres. – Michael F. Petkus 38 Woodsdale Rd. Dayton, OH 45404 (937) 235-0341 [email protected]

New England District Pres. – Shirley Musumeci 123 Colton Rd Glastonbury, CT 06033 860-633-3127 [email protected]

Mission Statement: The Knights of Lithuania endeavors to instill in its members an attachment to Lithuania, the land of our ancestors, and knowledge, appreciation and love of the Lithuanian language, customs and culture.

Publication Deadlines and Reminders

Please note the following publication deadlines for each issue of Vytis-The Knight. Jan-Feb Issue – Jan. 1st / Mar-Apr Issue – Mar. 1st / May-Jun Issue – May 1st / Jul-Aug Issue – Jul. 1st / Convention Issue – Sep. 1st / Sep-Oct Issue – Sep. 15th / Nov-Dec Issue – Nov. 1st. Also, please be advised that while we are always happy to include any photos that you send us in issues of Vytis we are not able to send them back to you

after publication.

Publication Information for National Website

Email address to submit pictures for the website: [email protected] Email address to submit events for the website calendar: [email protected]

Email address to send comments/suggestions about the website: [email protected]

Please note that it can take up to seven (7) business days for submissions to post. The webmaster is happy to receive all posts but reserves the right to make the final decision concerning content of what is published.

March-April – 2014 – Vytis–The Knight – 2014 – kovas-balandis Page 3

Contents – Turinys

2013-2014 Supreme Council Address Information .................... Inside Cover 2014 Convention News Area Attractions ............................................................................. 10 Greetings / Program Book Form ................................................... 12 Airport Shuttle Information ............................................................ 13 Registration Form .......................................................................... 11 2014 Foundation Essay Contest .................................................................. 14 2014 Foundation Meeting Announcement .................................................. 15 Council 7 – Waterbury, CT celebrates centennial ........................................ 8 District and Council News........................................................ 20, 22, 24 & 26 Easter Greeting ............................................................................................... 7 Easter Hymns................................................................................................ 32 In Memoriam ................................................................................................. 16 Inspirational message from Pope Francis I ................................. Back Cover JBANC news ................................................................................................. 17 Knight Life ................................................................................. 19, 21, 23 & 25 Knights making a difference ........................................................................ 18 Lithuanian Language Courses @ Camp Dainava ....................................... 30 National Calendar of events ......................................................................... 35 President’s Message ...................................................................................... 4 Recipes – The Easter Table ......................................................................... 27 Reminder about our web site ........................................................................ 5 Saints John XXIII & John Paul II ................................................... Back Cover Something from the past to help with the future ........................................ 31 Special Thank You .......................................................................................... 6 Vincukas Remembers .................................................................................. 29 Vytis Staff Message ........................................................................................ 5

Cover art: Lithuanian Easter Eggs From the collection of Rob Martin


A message from our President

Dear Fellow Members and Friends,

Linksmų Šv. Velikų! As we celebrate this wonderful Easter my wish for you is that it brings you and yours all the best of God’s graces that this season promises. Easter is more than just a promise of redemption it is also a chance for new beginnings. By this time hopefully everyone should have read all the convention information that has been printed already in Vytis and we hope you are looking forward to attending a wonderful convention in California. On May 3rd I will be meeting with your fellow Supreme Council members in Alsip, Illinois for our annual Spring Meeting. During this meeting we will be finalizing plans for the convention schedule and panel presentations. So much work goes into planning and executing a convention we truly hope to see you in Los Angeles, where you can see first hand the great job Council 133 has done and more importantly be an active part in charting our organization’s future.

Again I want to remind you of the important crossroads we, as an organization, find ourselves in. In the last issue I wrote about our current financial situation and listed some ideas that have been presented as a way to try and solve it. Please understand that these are only proposals at this time and whatever we decide to do will require a vote at the convention to make them official. We encourage all members to take an active part and voice your opinions or suggestions. We are open to any and all thoughts. There are no ideas to small or unimportant to be considered. May we all continue working together “For God and Country”. Vytiškai,

Regina Regina Juska-Svoba, HM President


A Message from your Vytis Staff

Dear Fellow Members, As we continue to try and bring expenses down for the organization we would like to ask your help. In the month of May we will be sending each council president a listing of your council’s current Vytis mailing list. We are going to ask each council to review the list to make sure it is accurate and send us changes and corrections were needed. In addition we are going to ask that members consider receiving Vytis electronically by providing their email address. Those wishing to receive Vytis electronically will have the benefit of receiving it quicker as there is no printing and mailing time involved, basically you will receive it the same day the printer does. Added benefits include receiving the Vytis in full color throughout. Vytis is also available on our national web site as well. However, it is password protected so you will need to contact our web master, Alex Fletcher, to receive the password. Lastly, each Vytis we are able to send electronically is a cost savings to the organization on average of $3.25 per copy. That means for each K of L household that goes electronically can save the organization, again on average, $22.75 per year. Working together we know we can help our organization run much more financially secure. Vytiškai,

Rob Phyllis Irene Robert A. Martin, Jr., HM Phyllis Gendreau Irene Macke Editor Business Manager Council News Editor

Reminder about our Website!

The use of the internet is such a valuable tool for all of us in getting information out faster. We encourage everyone to submit meeting notices, event information and photos electronically for inclusion on the website and website calendar. How do we get something added to the Knights of Lithuania website? Look no more. Below are the email addresses of where you can send your photos, event announcements and questions, comments and suggestions. Please note that it can take up to seven (7) business days for submissions to post. The

webmaster is happy to receive all posts but reserves the right to make the final decision concerning content of what is published on the site. Also, remember, if you don’t submit it, he can’t put it out there for you!

Email address to submit pictures for the website:

[email protected]

Email address to submit events for the website calendar:

[email protected]

Email address to send comments/suggestions about the website:

[email protected]

A Special Thank You



Linksmą Diena mums nušvito

Visi troškom džiaugsmo šito

Kėles Kristus, mirtis krito!!

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!!

May the joy and reality of

Christ's Resurrection fill your

lives with endless bliss!

Wishing you much happiness and peace!

Council 1

Brockton, MA


Council 7’s – Waterbury, MA Celebrates 100th Anniversary

On Sunday, September 29, 2013 Knights of Lithuania Council 7 (Waterbury, Ct) celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the K of L in America. The day began with a special Mass at 10:30 am at St Joseph Church which was concelebrated by our present pastor, Rev Norman Brockett and our former K of L spiritual advisor, Reverend Francis Karvelis. The Mass featured a full choir with music in both Lithuanian and English, readings in both languages, and a procession with members in traditional Lithuanian folk costumes carrying flags of the United States and Lithuania as well as the knights of Lithuania “Lietuvos Vyciai” banner.

The Mass was followed by a reception and formal sit down dinner in St Joseph School Hall. Before the meal attendees could socialize with friends and catch up with old time acquaintances as well as peruse the booths set up by vendors, Rasa Dooling with amber creations, Laima Reiss with photographs of scenes of Lithuania, and Laurynas Misavacius who offered a variety of items of interest to people of Lithuanian descent. A special addition to our celebration was a book signing by Council 7 member Janina Nawarskas whose book, “A Child Lost, My Life’s Journey from War Torn Europe to Proud American” had just been published. There was also a History table with pictures, articles, etc. about the Waterbury council through the years. Following grace by Father Brockett the meal was served. The menu consisted of tossed salad, roast pork, oven roasted potatoes, green beans almandine, (all prepared by Judy Blinstrubas Vecchitto), kugelis (donated by Leon Farr), sauerkraut and Lithuanian sausage (prepared by Bob Orintas, Adele Klenske, Ann Valuckas, and Marlene Shea), and rye bread and butter. Dessert was cake, coffee, and raguolis donated by long time member Marcella Laureckas. The beautiful table decorations were made by Mary Blinstrubas. For after dinner entertainment Council 7 member Eric Karpavicius organized a group comprised of some members of the former Vetra dance group, and after they demonstrated three traditional folk dances, there was audience participation which was a lot of fun!! Event chairperson Marlene Shea and council president Linas Balsys were especially pleased to have newly elected NED president Shirley Musumeci as well as members of the Hartford, Bridgeport, and Ansonia councils in attendance at this happy and momentous occasion!!

Members of Council 7 – Waterbury, CT attending their Anniversary Celebration. L-R: Bill Stokes; Council 7 President, Linas Balsys; Laima Reiss; and Event Chairperson,

Marlene Shea.


Members of Council 7 – Waterbury, CT attending their Anniversary Celebration. L-R: Pat

Alexander; Anna Juraska; Adele Klenske; and Tony Alexander.

Members of Council 7 – Waterbury, CT attending their Anniversary Celebration. L-R: Marlene Shea; Janina Nawarskas; and New England District President, Shirley

Musumeci


Convention News Below is a listing of popular tourist attractions in the Los Angeles/Glendale, CA, area and their distance from our convention hotel, The Embassy Suites Glendale. We are happy to provide this information here to help you plan your convention visit to beautiful California this summer.

Area Attractions and Distance from Embassy Suites Glendale

Name

Distance

ABC Studios 14 Miles

Americana at Brand 0.8 MI

Armand Hammer Museum of Art & Cultural Center 25 Miles

Autry National Center / Museum 2.5 MI Chinatown 11 Miles

Descanso Gardens 8 Miles

Disney® Studios 4.1 MI

Disneyland 40 Miles

Dodger Stadium 8.5 MI

Farmer’s Market and Shopping Village 14 Miles

Getty Center 19.0 MI

Glendale Galleria Shopping 0.8 MI

Greek Theatre 5.8 MI

Griffith Park 2.8 MI

Hollywood Bowl 8.0 MI

Hollywood Sign 5.5 MI Hollywood Walk of Fame 11 Miles

Huntington Library & Gardens 12.0 MI

Kodak Theater 8.0 MI

La Brea Tar Pits 20 Miles

LA Live Nokia Theatre 11.8 MI

Los Angeles Coliseum 13.5 MI

Los Angeles County Museum of Art 21 Miles

Los Angeles Fashion District 11.8 MI

Los Angeles Zoo 2.8 MI

Melrose Avenue Shopping District 11 Miles

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) 11 Miles

Museum of Science and Industry 15 Miles NBC Studio Tours 5.3 MI

Norton Simon Museum of Art 4 Miles

Pacific Asia Museum 8 Miles

Paramount Studios 11 Miles

Pasadena Rose Bowl 8.3 MI

Rodeo Drive Shopping District 22 Miles

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library 40.0 MI

Santa Anita Horse Racing 15.0 MI

Santa Monica Pier 25.0 MI

Staples Center 11.8 MI

The Music Center 10 Miles

Universal Studios Hollywood 7.0 MI Venice Beach 30 Miles

Warner Bros Studio Tours 5.5 MI


Knights of Lithuania 101

st Convention

July 24-27, 2014 Host: Council 133 – Los Angeles, CA

Convention Site: Embassy Suites Glendale

101ST NATIONAL CONVENTION REGISTRATION FORM

Name: ____________________________________________________________________ Council No: ____________________________ (Please Print)

Address ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________ State: ______________________________ Zip: ___________________________________ Phone: ______________________________ Email: _______________________________________________________________________

_____ Registration (By June 13, 2014) _____ @ $ 250.00 each $ _______________

_____ Late Registration (After June 14, 2014) _____ @ $ 275.00 each $ _______________

_____ Junior Registration (By June 13, 2014) _____ @ $ 125.00 each $ _______________

_____ Junior Late Registration (After June 14, 2014) _____ @ $ 150.00 each $ _______________

_____ Pre-Convention Tour _____ @ $ 60.00 Adult $ _______________

_____ @ $ 50.00 Junior $ _______________

Mail completed form(s) and payment to: Total Enclosed: $ ______________

Danutė Jasiukonis, Registration Chair Make checks payable to: Knights of Lithuania Knights of Lithuania 4051 West 7th Street Los Angeles, CA 90005 Phone: 1.213.385.5176 (H) / 1.213.364.3132 (C) Email: [email protected]

HOTEL: The Embassy Suites - Glendale 800 North Central Avenue Glendale, CA 91203 Reservation Toll Free: 1.800.362.2779 request group code: KOL or Visit www.losangelesglendale.embassysuites.com enter the group code: KOL

Knights of Lithuania rates: July 22-23, 2014 (All rooms are two room suites) 1 King Bed - $169.00* per night + tax (Currently 9%) 2 Double Beds - $179.00* per night + tax (Currently 9%)

July 24-29, 2014 (All rooms are two room suites) 1 King Bed - $149.00* per night + tax (Currently 9%) 2 Double Beds - $159.00* per night + tax (Currently 9%)

(Please note that these rates include: Cooked-to-order breakfast each morning; Evening Manager’s Cocktail Reception each evening; $10.00 overnight parking (reduced from $15.00); and $5.00 daily high speed internet access (reduced from $9.95 daily).

PRE-CONVENTION TOUR: The Best of Our California. Please

plan on joining us on Wednesday for a wonderful tour on the very best of the Los Angeles / Hollywood area. After a morning scenic bus tour of our great city we’ll be off to a museum like no other, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Be prepared to be amazed by all the important national history and scenic beauty this first class museum has to offer. While there time will be allowed for lunch. Seating will be limited so please make your reservation early.

CONVENTION REGISTRATION RATES: Registration (By June 22, 2014) .............................................. $ 250.00 Late Registration (After June 23, 2014)................................... $ 275.00 Junior Registration (By June 22, 2014) ................................... $ 125.00 Junior Late Registration (After June 23, 2014) ........................ $ 150.00 Pre-convention Tour ................................. $60.00 Adult / $50.00 Junior

CONVENTION REGISTRATION INCLUDES: Adult Registration includes: Thursday Welcome Luncheon;

Evening Get-together Western Night; Friday Cultural Program; Saturday Convention Banquet; Sunday Farewell Luncheon. In addition bus transportation will be provided as needed for off site events. A surprise or two may also await you in our town known for its tinsel.

Junior Registration includes: All adult activities plus their own events being planned for Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Our Junior attendees won’t be disappointed with the fun we have planned for them.

CUT OFF DATE FOR ALL RESERVATIONS IS: Sunday, June 22, 2014 Make all reservations under the group code KOL no later

than June 22nd. All group reservations have a 7 day cancellation policy. After June 22nd, per hotel policy, the convention rate will

no longer be available.


Knights of Lithuania 101

st Convention

July 24-27, 2014 Host: Council 133 – Los Angeles, CA

Convention Site: Embassy Suites Glendale

101st National Convention Program Book Ad/Greeting Form

From July 24th to 27th, 2014 the members of the Knights of Lithuania from across the United States will gather together in Glendale, California for their 101st National Convention. As we embark on the start of our 2nd century we welcome the opportunity to continue our work, “For God and Country”. What a wonderful opportunity to send Greetings, Congratulatory Remarks or Best Wishes and Continued Support to all the Knights of Lithuania! We therefore ask that you please consider placing an ad/greeting in this year’s Program Book. Realizing that everyone’s budget is different and wanting to make sure that everyone who wants to be part of this piece of history is able to, we are making ads/greetings available in several different sizes. We hope to be able to include your Ad/Greeting in this year’s book.

Final deadline for all ads/greetings: Ad sizes and costs are as follows (* = These will be sold on a first come, first serve basis):

___ $200.00 Back Cover* ___ $150.00 Inside Covers* ___ $100.00 Full Page (8½” X 11”) (8½” X 11”) (8½” X 11”)

___ $60.00 ½ Page ___ $30.00 ¼ Page ___ $20.00 2 Line Well Wisher (8½” X 5½”) (4¼ ” X 5½”)

Make checks payable to: Knights of Lithuania Sent by: Mail ads/greetings with payment to:

Name: ________________________________________ Rob Martin

Address: ______________________________________ 3420 South Lituanica Avenue

City: _____________ State: _________ Zip: ________ Chicago, IL 60608-6720

Phone: ________________________________________ Phone: 1.312.771.7432

Email: ________________________________________ Email: [email protected]

Please use the space below for your ad/greeting. You are encouraged to submit camera ready copy or electronic copy:

________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________


Convention News Airport Shuttle Information

Our convention hotel, The Embassy Suites Glendale is located seven (7) miles from the Bob Hope Burbank/Glendale/Pasadena Airport (BUR) and twenty-four (24) miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). While Bob Hope Burbank is closer to the hotel flights to Los Angeles LAX may be priced more economically as it is a larger airport. Below is information concerning transportation to/from the hotel from each airport.

To/From Los Angeles International (LAX) to Embassy Suites Glendale One Way Shared Ride (Door to door but may make additional stops in route): $38.00 (1st person) - $9.00 (each

Additional) Maximum # of people seven (7). Exclusive Ride (Door to door with no additional stops in route): $93.00 (Flat rate) Maximum # of people

nine (9). Round Trip Shared Ride (Door to door but may make additional stops in route): $76.00 (1st person) - $18.00 (each


nine (9). To/From Bob Hope Burbank/Glendale/Pasadena Airport (BUP) to Embassy Suites Glendale One Way Shared Ride (Door to door but may make additional stops in route): $17.00 (1st person) - $9.00 (each


nine (9). Round Trip Shared Ride (Door to door but may make additional stops in route): $34.00 (1st person) - $18.00 (each


nine (9). Please note that rates quoted are based on rates at time of publication printing. Please confirm your rates with Super Shuttle directly when you make your booking. All rates quoted do not include tax and tip. Cab service is also available but will be much more expensive.

To make your airport shuttle reservations please use one of the following methods:

By phone: 1.800.BlueVan (1.800.258.3826)

By Email: [email protected]

Online: www.supershuttle.com

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.supershuttle.com/


Knights of Lithuania

Foundation, Inc. A Tax-Exempt Organization

2014 ESSAY CONTEST ANNOUNCEMENT

TOPIC: Write an essay expressing your thoughts on: What goals should the Knights of Lithuania have in the next century?

or

Why am I a Knights of Lithuania member? Each topic will be given the same attention.

LENGTH: 450 to 500 words (count all words). DEADLINE: June 7, 2014. Essays received after this date will not be considered. ELIGIBILITY: A contestant must be a Knights of Lithuania member (Honorary, Regular or Associate) in

GOOD STANDING. CRITERIA: Essays will be judged on content and originality. Correct grammar and neatness will also be

considered in judging. Entries with less than 450 or more than 500 words will be disqualified. MANUSCRIPT: Must be typed or written legibly, double spaced. The FIRST PAGE should contain ONLY

your name, address, council number, and the essay title. Succeeding pages should contain the essay contents but NOT your name. This is to assure anonymity in judging. Junior entries should be identified as such, giving the name and Junior Council number.

PRIZES: Amount of monetary gifts given will depend on the number of essays submitted. JUNIORS: Because Junior members cannot be expected to meet the standards of adult

members, there will be a separate prize category for Juniors who are members of a Junior Council that is duly registered with the Supreme Council.

Monetary gifts will also be given to prize winning Junior member entries. JUDGES: One member of each K of L District, plus the 2013 Contest Winner. MAIL TO: Irene Svekla 44 Clemson Road Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08034 WINNERS: Will be announced July 2014, during the 101st National Convention in Glendale, CA. Winning

entries will be published in VYTIS. SPONSOR: KNIGHTS OF LITHUANIA FOUNDATION, INC. via a grant from Msgr. J. Prunskis.


Knights of Lithuania

Foundation, Inc. A Tax-Exempt Organization

ATTENTION ---------- ATTENTION ---------- ATTENTION

All Members and Board of the Knights of Lithuania Foundation, Inc.

A meeting of the Membership and Executive Board of the Knights of Lithuania Foundation, Inc. will be held at the Knights of Lithuania 101st National Convention at the Embassy Suites, Glendale, CA. The exact date and meeting room location will be announced during the Convention. Please come to the meeting prepared to exchange ideas on past, current, and future foundation projects, for the betterment of the Knights of Lithuania Foundation, Inc. Your suggestions and your help in getting new members for the foundation are important to us. Please notify me as to your attending the meeting or not, as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you.

Please complete this form and return by July 15, 2014. I will attend ______________________________ I will not attend _____________________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Council No. ___________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________ Suggestions ( if any ) _____________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Mail to: Irene Ozalis, President Knights of Lithuania Foundation, Inc. 2557 East Ontario Street Philadelphia, PA 19134 1.215.426.6762


In Memoriam

Please join us in praying for eternal rest for our fellow Knights who

have left us for their eternal reward. May their souls and all the souls

of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.

Council 6 – Hartford, CT

Helen Lizauskas

Council 36 – Chicago, IL

Sr. M. Joanella Fayert, SSC

Council 50 – New Haven, CT

George Kisielius

Council 96 – Dayton, Ohio

Walter A. Lastoskie

Council 102 – Detroit, MI

Marie Yokin

Council 110 – Maspeth, NY

Martha Pezar

Paul Pezar

Bruno G. Rutkunas

Antanas Vytuvis

Council 141 – Bridgeport, CT

Lee C. Marcinka

Council 144 – Anthracite, PA

Alphonse Mikatavage

Helen M. Paskey

Paul T. Saukaitis

Council 157 – Lemont, IL

Jonas Martinkus

Amžiną Atilsį


News from JBANC The following is reprinted from the JBANC web site www.jbanc.org. It is printed here for our readers information. We encourage all to visit their website for current information and announcements concerning the Baltic nations.

France, Denmark offer sending more fighter jets to Baltics Mar 31, 2014 by BNS France and Denmark on Friday offered sending their fighter jets to the Baltic air policing mission in response to Russia’s neighbors’ concerns over its annexation of Ukraine’ region of Crimea. They are following the steps of the United States and the United Kingdom after the former has already send six additional F-15 jets and the latter pledged to send up to four fighter jets in May when Poland is scheduled to take over responsibility for the air policing mission from American troops. “We are ready to send additional fighter jets,” French Defense Minister Jean Yves Le Drian said in Vilnius on Friday. Responding to criticism over the sale of Mistral warships to Russia, the minister said the fate of the sale would depend on the EU agreement on collective sanctions. ”Our response must be collective. It means that sanctions also have to be collective,” he said. Following a meeting with his French counterpart, Lithuanian Minister of National Defense Juozas Olekas announced that Denmark had offered sending more fighter jets to the Baltic air policing mission. “Denmark has also announced its readiness to send more jets,” he told journalists. The Baltic States don’t have their own air defense capabilities, therefore, other NATO member country perform the air policing mission on a rotating basis. According to Olekas, a collective NATO decision will be made on specific capabilities to bolster individual previously planned missions. Source: http://www.lithuaniatribune.com/65602/france-denmark-offer-sending-more-fighter-jets-to-baltics-201465602/


Knights Making a Difference

Council 6 – Hartford, CT started their February 11, 2014 meeting with Soup and Bread to start their Lenten Journey. In the Lenten spirit of alms giving, the members collected can goods, and non-perishable items for those less fortunate. In addition they collected $25.00 from those in attendance at their meeting. All of this

was then donated to St. Elizabeth House Soup Kitchen to assist in feeding those that are less fortunate then ourselves. It was such a good feeling to be a small part of helping those in need. The Director and the people we met when we dropped off the food and check were so appreciative that we wish that we could have done more. In the future we will continue to help St. Elizabeth House, which is just around the corner from Holy Trinity Church one of the few Lithuanian Church's in CT. Pictured above with the Director of St. Elizabeth House Soup Kitchen are Council 6 members: (L to R) Leona Gwaz; Vaidotas (Vic) Spakauskas; Carol Spakauskas; Kay Urban; and Xavier Dembele.


Knight Life

Some of the sixty members and guests of Council 10 – Athol-Garnder, MA enjoy the wonder meal prepared for their annual Kučios.

Jackie Doherty and Nellie Melaika of Council 10 – Athol-Gardner, MA lighting the Advent candles at their annual Kučios.

The wonderful and delicious selections on the Pastry Table at Council 10 – Athol-Garnder, MA’s, annual Kučios.


District & Council News Amber District C-3 Philadelphia, PA Stephany Gutauskas At the end of October 2013, Marge and Charlie Petronis traveled to Las Vegas, NV, to celebrate the 50th birthday of Charlie’s niece, who is one of 12 children. At the November council meeting, Irene Ozalis reported on the Amber District meeting, hosted by C-3 with the assistance of Evelyn Harryn of C-63 and held at the St. Francis Retreat House in Easton, PA, on October 13, 2013. Delegates and guests sat down to a delicious roast pork dinner and indulged in many tasty desserts, whereupon the meeting commenced. Getting together with fellow Knights is always an enjoyable experience. Marge Petronis gave members details about the council’s Christmas party and reminded everyone to bring a Pollyanna to the affair. Culture Chairperson Stephany Gutauskas explained how Lithuanians observe All Souls’ Day. Sunshine Chairperson Ausra Maknys held raffles for the benefit of Lithuanian Children’s Relief Inc. In November, Jackie Fox was the winner. In January 2014, Marge Petronis and Lillian Greymas took home the prizes. At the November meeting, Irene Svekla gave a brief report about the American Lithuanian Craft Show held at the Philadelphia Convention Center from November 7 to 10, 2013. Twenty-three Lithuanian vendors displayed their wares at the show. One of the highlights was a Lithuanian beer tasting. Officers

and chairpersons were installed at the November council meeting. Marge Petronis prepared salad and served meatball sandwiches to the delight of all. Council 3 hosted the Supreme Council meeting at St. George Parish in Philadelphia on November 16. It is our great pleasure to assist and serve Supreme Council officers. Marge and Charlie Petronis spent Thanksgiving with their son Charles Jr. in Elsworth, ME. We congratulate Mary Czupick upon becoming a nonagenarian on December 7. May God grant you good health and many other blessings, Mary. The weather was a huge factor on December 8, the day of our council’s Christmas party. Nine brave souls ventured out in a driving snowstorm (8 inches of accumulation) to safely reach the warmth of La Stanza Restaurant in South Philadelphia. We were sorry that half of our expected members were unable to attend. Even so, we still made merry, enjoyed our entrees (chicken, veal, or fish) and exchanged Pollyannas. We cordially welcome back Victor Balten and his daughter Kristina, who recently rejoined our council. We are searching for a suitable religious site, one we haven’t visited in the past, where we may hold a one-day spiritual retreat in 2014. At several recent meetings, Culture Chairperson Stephany Gutauskas taught council members about the origin of the Lithuanian words for the months of the year.

We offer best wishes to Dianne Drumstas’ daughter, Carol Ann, who wed John Curry on January 18, 2014, in St. George Church in Philadelphia. God grant you an enduring and happy marriage. We heartily congratulate Alberta Weigand and Marge and Charlie Petronis, who were $50 winners in the St. George Lucky Dragon Club drawing on January 3 and 20, respectively. C-143 Pittston, PA Peggy Yanklunas Our flag-raising ceremony was held on February 14, 2014, in honor of the 96th anniversary of the restoration of Lithuania’s independence, which was on February 16, 2014. Reverend Peter Tomczak gave the invocation, and local dignitaries attended. Amid the immense accumulation of snow, the Lithuanian flag was raised at Pittston City Hall on Broad Street in Pittston, PA. Ron and Mary Claire Voveris, husband and wife, were chairpersons. Following the ceremony, a delightful luncheon was served at the Lithuanian Citizen’s Social and Beneficial Club. The honorary chairperson was our president, Yvonne Branas. On March 2, we celebrated Mass in honor of St. Casimir’s Feast Day, which is March 4. Reverend Father Peter Tomczak was the celebrant. The Mass was lovely as the Children’s Choir of St. John the Evangelist Parish from Pittston did the singing. There was a procession with members carrying the Lithuanian flag along with other symbols and artifacts of the country.


Knight Life Members of Council 1 – Brockton, MA taken at their latest council meeting. Council 27 – Norwood, MA members at their Communion Breakfast on January 19, 2014. Front row (L to R): Nella Pezwick, Sandra Melish, Ted Callahan, Jane Perednia, Lillian Callahan, Irene DeShiro, Ramona Gonski, Carol Treciokas; Back row (L to R): Jean Hauck, Sonia Skricki, Joyce Kaseta, Marcia Perednia, Patricia Adakonis, Carol Richard, and Charles Treciokas.


During the Mass, Peggy Yanklunas was awarded the Fourth Degree of the Knights of Lithuania and received a St. Casimir medal. Ron Voveris and his wife, Mary Claire, were awarded the first degree at a luncheon at Agalino’s in West Pittston. Dennis Polladina was chairman. He and his wife, Janet, are new members. Mid-Central District C-96 Dayton, OH Fran Petkus Looks like winter is going out in full force. Our area has not been hit as hard as the east, Chicago, and other areas, but we have had our fill. It just seems like a good old-fashioned winter for some of us. But – time to bring on spring! The weather did affect plans for the celebration of our annual Independence Day Mass and luncheon on February 16, 2014. Our Lithuanian friends from Cincinnati, who quite frequently travel back and forth to Lithuania, usually share the latest news of Lithuania but could not be here due to the road conditions. The Mass was pretty well attended and the warm food added to the day. Thanks go to Judy Petrokas and her ‘team’ for putting this special occasion together: Jim and Connie Geiger and Michael Petkus. Due to weather conditions, our January meeting was canceled, but the February meeting made up for that. The main topic was the celebration of St. Casimir’s Day. St. Casimir’s Mass was celebrated on March 2 at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Church. Weather did affect the attendance, but all went well. Father Johann Roten of the University of Dayton celebrated the Mass. His homily was

wonderfully woven into the readings of the day and St. Casimir’s life, his stewardship, and all. Andrew Berczelly followed carrying the painting of St. Casimir; Teri Scott carried the lily, and Jerry Scott, the crown. Mary Petkus explained the significance of each for those in attendance and not familiar with St. Casimir and his life. The offertory bearers were Kyle O’Brian and John and Joyce Berczelly. The Mass was a beautiful celebration of our patron, St. Casimir. Following Mass, Rimantas Liaugminas led us in the Litany to St. Casimir in Lithuanian. Then all sang the “Vyciu Himnas.” From church we headed to the Spaghetti Warehouse for lunch. Because of the weather and lack of members, we could not hold a formal meeting, but we did enjoy each other’s company over dinner/lunch. Even the waiter knew he had a good group to serve. In preparation for Lent, the Four Parishes Committee held their 11th Mardi Gras celebration on March 1. It was held at the Polish Club Hall and was very well attended. Holy Cross’s crew was in charge of the New Orleans Jambalaya and special New Orleans Bread Pudding. Michael Petkus chaired the preparations with the help of Norma and Fran Petkus. Steve Habodasz of St. Stephen’s Hungarian Parish helped us, as in the past. It was a great evening with dancing and plenty to eat and drink—a fun way to create friendships and to prepare for Lent. Our deepest sympathies go to the family of Fourth Degree Knight Eloise Berczelly: to her son John, daughter-in-law Joyce, grandson C-96 President Andrew Berczelly, and all Eloise’s family–grand- and

great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Eloise had always been active in the council and district and had attended several national conventions. She had a great sense of humor and could put you in your place. Her grandson Andrew said at the eulogy that it was because of his grandmother he learned to love the K of L. Get well wishes go to Eleanor Mantz and MaryAgnes Mikalauskas. May your recovery time be short. Congratulations to Joseph and Ann Boeke, our North Carolina members, on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. May one and all have a very Blessed Easter. New England District C-6 Hartford, CT Agnes Gagnon At our January 14, 2014, meeting, we were treated to a guest speaker, Kevin Borrup, a Peace Corps volunteer in Lithuania from 1998 to 2000. For those of us who have not experienced living or visiting our native Lithuania, he revealed the social conditions he experienced. His focus and mission were to assist the Youth Psychological Aid Center in Vilnius. The picture was one of a struggling nation as it continually tries to deal with past occupations and its present relationship with Russia. I conclude that the Peace Corps is a very positive program created by our government that promotes good will. Although Poland is beyond the Lithuanian border, 80% of the people living in Seinai are Lithuanian. Brian Daigle reported that Fr. Peter Gucevicius, who serves this area, requested financial as well as other needs


Knight Life

Council 142 – Washington, DC President, Joseph Chaplick with Council Spiritual Advisor, Rev. Msgr. Edward J. Filardi.

National Legal Advisor, Saulius V. Kuprys, Esq. with Mid-America District Ritual Chairlady, Georgiana Macke after receiving his 3rd Degree during the District’s Spring Meeting and St. Casimir’s Day Mass.


for their youth. We agreed to establish a donation area at our meeting for this cause. Did you know that Lithuania has a noted fashion designer of women’s clothing? If one got a whiff of White Jasmine, you could also credit that to Juozas Statkevicius. Sue Gudaitis reported on our Lithuanian son. Brian Daigle promoted Super Bowl Sunday by offering orders for soup as a fundraiser for St. Andrew Parish in New Britain. Several members of our council are members of that parish, and this was a cause we encouraged our members to support. At our February 11 meeting, Spiritual Advisor Brian Daigle put us on the path to addressing Lent. We would forego dessert and substitute soup and bread. That proved to be not as painful as the alternative was quite good! Following that path, we were requested to bring nonperishable items as well as monetary gifts that would be donated to St. Elizabeth House. Dalia Dzikas reminded us to celebrate Independence Day on February 16. There will be a 9:00 a.m. Mass at Holy Trinity followed by a talk given by Dr. Elona Vaisniene. She also reported that there will be a day of prayer at the Vilnius Cathedral on March 2. Forty-two countries will be represented. Sue Gudaitis’s Lithuania’s Son this month is Robert J. Shiller, who received a prize in economics equivalent to the Nobel. He is a Professor of Economics at Yale University and resides in New Haven, CT. He recently authored “Finance and the Good Society.”

Florence Morkus has donated some Lithuanian books to our council as she has moved to Maryland and is unable to include them in her move. Also, we learned that Leona Gwaz’s mother, Natalie Gwazdauskas donated the wooden cross that appears in Holy Trinity Church’s hall/basement. She made this gift many years ago when she realized that no cross was displayed. We thank her for her pro-active response. C-10 Athol-Gardner, MA Vincukas Our council held their annual Kucios on Sunday, January 5, at St. Francis Church in Athol with about 65 persons in attendance. It began when the first star appeared in the sky. Emcee Vincukas read the Christmas Gospel of St. Luke. Nellie Melaika followed with the lighting of the Advent Candle for our beloved K of L members, including so many who passed throughout our 100 years. Following a prayer, the ceremonies began with the sharing of plotkeles and wishing each other good health and choice blessings. Each year traditional specialties are enjoyed, beginning with fish chowder, baked haddock, kugelis, hot and cold kapusta, herring, vinegretas, various casseroles, mushrooms–at least 12 dishes in all, in honor of the 12 apostles. The calorie-loaded dessert table was something to behold. The traditional Kucios table was covered with hay overlaid with a white linen tablecloth, symbolizing the birth of Christ in a stable. Games of chance led by Emilie Joseph followed dinner. The Bouthillier family was in charge of the kitchen, as usual. Special benefactors were the

Shatos family. The Gatautis brothers were wine servers, with other members assisting in many ways. The hall was nicely decorated in the holiday spirit. Our Lithuanian Kucios is everything we Lithuanians hold dear: family, friends, God, and country. The local press provided good coverage. Our spiritual advisor, Fr. Joseph Jurgelonis, recently observed the 40th anniversary of his ordination. He has brought Christ to us through the Eucharist and other sacraments, powerful homilies, and dedication. He has given much of himself to all of us. He has dedicated himself in serving all in need, be they sick in the hospital or at home, dying, anointing, and counseling. He gives all a royal send-off to heaven, be they prince or pauper. Soft-spoken, gentle, not tall in stature but a giant of a priest. We all offer him our thanks and congratulations as a priest who loves his priesthood. May God sustain him with health for years to come. His parents looking down from heaven must be proud of him. God bless! Old Man Winter hit us hard this winter in the northeast—bitter cold for weeks with temperatures and wind chills down to 30 below zero. Before long we will complain about the heat. Oh well! The parish Women’s Guild held a successful pork roast dinner that gave the parish $1,300 profit. The Trappist fathers of St. Joseph’s Abbey in our Spencer area have started brewing ale with the Belgian recipe. It’s a far cry from the assortment of jams and jellies that they sold for 60 years, plus the religious vestments they are famous for. The ale is available at Anthony’s in Gardner, whose owners are


Knight Life Mid-America District Members join the Sisters of St. Casimir Auxiliary for their Annual Spring Games Party. (L-R): Council C-112 members Ann Pauksta and husband, Council President, Leon Pauksta.

Council 112 Member and Former Vytis Editor, Sr. Johanna Marie Shainauskas, SSC, at the Games Party looking fit as a fiddle.

Enjoying the Games Party. (L-R): Donna Juraitis, C-157; Janeen Perutis C-16 & MaryBeth Slakis C-16.

Enjoying the Games Party. (L-R): Joanne Rogers, C-16; Donna (friend of Joanne’s); Faustas Strolia, HM, C-157; Terry Strolia, HM, C-157 and Sue Svehla, C-112.


Jim and Asta Kraskauskas, local K of L members. Bronius Savulis, a long-time member passed on to eternity on February 9 in Greenfield. He was born in Rekatija Luibavas parish. During the Russian invasion, the family fled to Poland and resided there until settling in the United States. He lived the Golden Rule and was a model of Catholic perfection, a true gentleman. A group of K of L’ers attended his

funeral Mass and Armand and Pam Bouthillier placed the Lithuanian juosta on his coffin. Condolences to daughter Diane and family and to Brone Wisnauskas, his sister and caretaker for 14 weeks. Rest in peace, Broniau. C-27 Norwood, MA Carol Treciokas On a snowy morning, January 19, 2014, fifteen K of L’ers from C-27

of Norwood ventured to our annual Communion breakfast at Raffael’s in Walpole for a delicious meal and our monthly meeting. Joining us were Patricia Adakonis, Ted and Lillian Callahan, Irene DeShiro, Ramona Gonski, Joyce Kaseta, Sandra Melish, Jane and Marcia Perednia, Carol Richard, Sonia Skricki, Nellie Pezwick, Jean Hauck, and Charles and Carol Treciokas. A wonderful time was had by all.

Knight Life Supreme Council Members at their meeting last fall hosted by Rev. Msgr. Joseph Anderlonis, HM and the members of Council 3 – Philadelphia, PA. (L-R): Rob Martin, HM; Phyllis Gendreau; Mary Beth Slakis; Rita Sussko, HM; Lexie Rudmin; June Grenier; and Bernice Aviza, HM.

Mid-Central District President, Michael Petkus with Supreme Council President, Regina Juska-Svoba, HM.

Msgr. Anderlonis, HM and Council 3 President, Irene Ozalis, with some of the members of Council 3 – Philadelphia, PA.


The Easter Table – Velyku Stalas Borrowed and shared with our thanks from Jubilee Gems

published by the Sisters of St. Casimir Auxiliary

The coloring and decorating of Easter eggs is a challenge to everyone’s artistic ability. Colored eggs are a must at the Easter breakfast. Traditional custom prevails in the choosing of an egg for strength of shell by tapping one egg against another. The reward for the winner with the unbroken shell is the loser’s egg. The menu for Easter listed on this page was served throughout the holiday season. The festivities for this Christian holiday lasted for approximately one week. The season would end wit Low Sunday, affectionately referred to in some areas as “Little Easter”. We hope you enjoy these “Easter Dishes” during the Easter season and always. The recipies marked with an asterisk (*) are provided here for your cooking pleasure.

Colored Hard Boiled Eggs (Marguciai)

* Homemade Horseradish (Krenai) Stuffed Roasted Goose or Duck (Zasis Idaryta)

Easter Butter Lamb (Avinelis) * Crullers (Grusdai)

* Homemade Cheese (Suris) Cold Baked Ham (Kumpis)

Homemade Sausage (Desros) Vegetable Salad (Vinagretas) * Easter Bread (Velyku Boba) * Sour Cream Butter (Kastinis)

Coffee (Kava)

Homemade Horseradish (Krienai) by Mrs. Mary Srupsa Ingredients: 2 Horseradish Roots 2 cups Sour Cream ½ cup White Vinegar ½ cup Beet Juice (Optional)

What to do: Use two(2) horseradish roots—soaked in ice water for 2-3 hours. Peal and grate (preferable outside). To 2 cups of grated horseradish add about ½ cup of white vinegar and 2 cups sour cream. For red horseradish, add ½ cup beet juice. For plain white horseradish, omit sour cream and beet juice. For plain pink horseradish, add beet juice omitting sour cream.

Pressed Lithuanian Cheese (Suris) by Miss Anna Bay Ingredients: 2 pounds Cottage Cheese ½ cup Sour Cream ½ cup Milk 1 teaspoon Salt

What to do: Mix all the ingredients. Put in a triangular cloth bag (about 16 inches long, 10 inches across the top and 2 inches across the bottom). This bag can be made from any white material that is not too closely woven, like a flour sack. Tie the bag with a heavy string just above the mixture in the bag. Place on a bread board near a drain. Place another board on top of the bag. Put a heavy object on the top board to press out the liquid to form a cheese. After 2 or 3 days remove the bag from between the boards. Then carefully remove the cloth, place the cheese on a platter. Keep refrigerated. Slice and serve with dark rye bread and butter, or with honey, is a real treat.


Crullers (Ausukēs-Gruzdai) by Miss Harriet Strumil Ingredients: 5 Egg Yolks 3 tablespoons Sugar 5 tablespoons Sour Cream 1 tablespoon Brandy ¼ teaspoon vanilla flavoring ¼ teaspoon almond flavoring 2 ½ cups flour (sifted) ¼ teaspoon Salt Cooking Oil (for deep frying) Powdered Sugar

What to do: Beat egg yolks unil lemon in color. Add sugar gradually and continue beating. Add sour cream, brandy, flavorings, salt and mix well. Add flour a little at a time and mix until a ball is formed in the bowl. Place on floured board and knead until dough is not sticky to the touch when cut with a knife. This is important. Divide dough into several balls, wrapping each in Saran Wrap, and set aside for 10 minutes. Roll out paper-thin on a floured board. Cut into strips 1 ½ x 3 inches. Cut a slit into the middle of each strip and bring one end thru the slit. Heat sufficient oil in skillet for deep-frying (about 365˚) and fry a few at a time for about 3 minutes. (Careful! They burn fast!) Drain on absorbent paper and cool. When ready to serve, sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Sour Cream Butter (Kastinis) by Mrs. Stella Wabol Ingredients: 1 quart Sour Cream 4 tablespoons Butter 1 tablespoon Onion (finely minced) ¼ teaspoon Fresh Ground Pepper ¼ teaspoon Allspice 1 clove Garlic (crushed – Optional) Salt (to taste)

What to do: Put butter and 1 tablespoon of sour cream in a warm bowl. Cream with a wooden spoon. Keep stirring, gradually adding remaining cream 3 or 4 tablespoons at a time. Pour off and save excess liquid which forms while creaming. Place bowl in a pan of hot water. Stir vigorously until mixture separates from sides of bowl. Add a small amount of the liquid which has been poured off, to make a smooth buttery consistency. Add seasonings. Note: Care must be taken not to overheat the mixture during the making. If this happens and it becomes watery, place the bowl in a pan of cold water, and continue creaming until a soft buttery consistency is regained. The mixing can be done with an electric mixer set at a low speed.

Easter Bread (Velyku Boba) by Miss Anna Bay Ingredients: ¾ cup Hot Milk 2 cups Flour 1 Yeast Cake 1 tablespoon Warm Water 2 tablespoons Soft Butter 1/3 cup Sugar ½ teaspoon Salt 2 Egg Yolks ½ teaspoon Cardamon (ground) Raisins (optional) Nuts (chopped – optional) Cherries (chopped – optional)

What to do: Scald milk. Carefully stir ½ cup flour into hot milk. When smooth and cool, add yeast softened in warm water with 1 teaspoon sugar. Set aside to rise. Add salt to egg yolks and beat until thick. Add to sponge (flour/milk/yeast mixture) the butter, sugar, beaten egg yolks and cardamom. Beat with spoon thoroughly. Slowly add the remaining 1 ½ cups flour and knead with hand until dough no longer sticks to the fingers. Let rise until double in bulk. Punch down and let rise again, about 1 hour. Bake in loaf tube or sheet pan, your choice, for 30 minutes in a 350˚ oven.


Vincukas Remembers Preparing for Easter was a 40 day experience. With Mardi gras over, Ash Wednesday ushered in the period of penance. It was a period of strict religious exercises of self-denial. The Sisters of Sacred Heart instilled in us the need to perform acts of self-denial because life is short and eternity is forever. We had to attend a week long old fashioned mission with fire and brimstone homilies. We were told an unconfessed, unrepented Mortal Sin would be finished with eternal fire. Even as children we had to fast, but on Sunday with respite. I remember all the fish we ate – herring, smelts and haddock. We were told not to complain in Lithuania all dairy products were forbidden. But today, it is a treat and a hearty, healthy food that we enjoy twice a week. On Sunday afternoon I would attend the Bitter Lamentations at St. Joe’s. On Palm Sunday we school kids were proud to be chosen to join in the procession of Palms, the girls in their Holy Communion dresses and we boys with white shirts and dark trousers. On Holy Thursday we celebrated the institution of the Holy Eucharist and the priesthood. The bells fell silent and the wooden clapper took their place. Good Friday, the most somber of the Tridium, included the veneration of the cross. In the evening it was back to church for the Stations of the Cross.

After services Bernie took us to the Finish steam bath on Pine Street for a good steaming and brushing. We had to be physically clean as well as spiritually. After Saturday’s Mass, Bernie was in charge of the coloring of eggs, some with dyes, and some with onion skins. Amelia and I had our turn but always made a mess. Mom prepared a beautiful basket of food to be used for our Easter morning breakfast and had it blessed at St. Joe’s. On Easter morn, scrubbed and with a fresh haircut, we were decked out in our holiday best. Sis with a new dress and bonnet – did she look sweet with bangs, we thought she was special. Easter Resurrection Mass was special. The traditional hymns soared Heaven-ward. The Altar was ablaze with candles, flowers, lilies, tulips and greenery galore. After Mass we greeted our Lithuanian friends with “Linksma diena nusvito”, a joyous day has dawned, Christ is risen. We had fasted, done our best and made peace with God, our family and friends and we were ready for our feast. The breakfast table was a sight to behold. There was the Easter Pascal Lamb cake with the red flag symbolizing Christ’s resurrection. The table had an abundance of homemade dešros, ham, jellied pork hocks, horse radish, and to wash it down was our special honey liquor, krupnikas. We then enjoyed the Easter games.


Lithuanian Language Courses Camp Dainava, Manchester, MI

August 3 - 10, 2014

The Lithuanian language courses at Camp Dainava, Manchester, Michigan, are intensive one - week courses designed for students at the beginner, intermediate and advanced level, or those just wishing to refresh their Lithuanian. The program operates under the auspices of the Lithuanian Educational Council of the USA, a not-for-profit organization. The courses are taught by experienced instructors in vacation-like surroundings and a relaxed atmosphere. There are no limitations regarding formal education. The courses are student centered and we do our best to meet individual needs and interests. Each student will be able to choose the level with which they are most comfortable. We will provide you with some language structure and a great deal of audio-lingual practice, with abundant help available to all students. Because these courses are an adjunct to a camp for Lithuanian Heritage School teachers from across the country, in addition to classroom study, you will have an opportunity to interact with Lithuanian-speaking people and will be invited to take part in many common activities.

CHILDREN'S PROGRAM For those families who wish to bring children, there is a Lithuanian oriented, supervised children's program in operation during certain hours of the day. These sessions help the children 3 years and older have fun learning some Lithuanian by immersion while freeing the parents to attend classes and take part in other activities. THE CAMP AND ITS FACILITIES The camp is located at 15100 Austin Rd. near the town of Manchester in southeastern Michigan. It covers 226 acres of rolling hills and resembles a picturesque region in southern Lithuania after which it is named. The small lake and wooded hills that greet each visitor let you know that you are close to nature. The camp facilities can be described as basic and consist of dormitories and rooms with adjacent showers, a central mess hall, a main building with conference rooms, kitchen and a coin operated laundry. The main building, with its large hall is a focal point of activity and is often referred to as “the White House”. The grounds include basketball, sand volleyball, and tennis courts, as well as a fishing pier, picnic tables, an open air pavilion and swimming beach. So bring your bathing suit, if you like swimming and sun bathing, fishing gear for fishing or hiking shoes for trails through the fields and forest. THE FOOD The cuisine is mostly Lithuanian-American and it is very good. The meals are served family style. The menu includes a variety of choices to appeal to different tastes and age groups. The meals consist of a hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a light snack after swimming. Certain Lithuanian dishes may even rekindle nostalgic memories. "The camp

gives you the feeling of being in Lithuania right here in America." These words of one camper speak volumes. It’s a relaxing place. While you build memories and friendships that could last a life time, you’ll be re-establishing a connection to your Lithuanian heritage, learning about the culture, improving your language skills, and enjoying the company of fellow Lithuanians and friends from the United States, Canada and Lithuania. So welcome back to your roots! TRAVEL INFORMATION If you travel by car, please refer to a more detailed map. The actual address is Camp Dainava, 15100 West Austin Road, Manchester, MI, 48158. It is located in southeastern Michigan, 6 miles west of Manchester and 9 miles east of Napoleon. There is a DAINAVA sign at the entrance. Camp phone is 1.734.428.1549 or 1.734.428.1633 (attended while camp is in session). If you travel by plane, you should arrive at Detroit Metro Airport on Sunday. Please let us know in advance your airline, flight number and the time of arrival and we will try to help you to make arrangements for transportation to the camp. Camp Dainava is about 40 miles away from the airport. Estimated cost of additional transportation varies per person round trip, depending on the number of passengers. LOOKING FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION For more information and/or to register please contact Ausrele Sakalaite, 1388 Overton Drive, Lemont, IL, 60439; phone 1.630.243.6302, E-mail: [email protected]. You can also find more information on their website: http://www.dainava.org.


A bit from our past to help build our future!

The form below was recently submitted to Vytis by member Mildred Jagiella of

Council 82 – Gary, IN. It was a helpful tool in the past and is just as useful

today. Consider reprinting it and use it for your furure membership drives.

GET INVOLVED .....

JOIN THE KNIGHTS OF LITHUANIA AND …..

BECOME A BETTER ROMAN CATHOLIC

BE A BETTER U.S. CITIZEN

TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR ETHNIC HERITAGE

MAKE MORE LITHUANIAN FRIENDS

WIDEN YOUR HORIZONS

HAVE FUN AND ENJOY LIFE

GET ACQUAINTED WITH LITHUANIAN HISTORY AND CUSTOMS

PARTICIPATE IN LITHUANIAN CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL AND NATIONAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS

TAKE PART IN THE ONGOING WATCH TO KEEP LITHUANIA FREE!!!

Membership:

Ask any member for an application or print one on line at www.knightsoflithuania.org.

Annual dues is currently: $20.00 (single); $10.00 for each additional member in a

household. Your membership entitles you to a complimentary copy of the organizations

bi-monthly publication.

The Knights of Lithuania was formed in 1913 in the U.S. and has always heartily

welcomed those born here, earlier arrivals from Lithuania and also the newly arrived. As

we enter our 2nd century we continue to welcome all and to work “For God and Country”.

Councils function from the Atlantic to the Pacific…wherever Lithuanian communities

exist.

We need you and your unique, valuable Participation!!!

Join us today!


Hymns of the Season


Hymns of the Season


Hymns of the Season

Knights of Lithuania Calendar of Events


May 2014 3th Supreme Council Meeting in Chicago, IL 4th MAMD Dedication of Our Lady of Šiluva

Monument in Chicago, IL 11th Mother’s Day 17th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m. 18th Council 6, 100th Anniversary celebration

27th Memorial Day

June 2014 14th Flag Day 15th Father’s Day 20th-22nd New England District Annual Retreat at

the Franciscan Monastery in Kennebunkport, Maine with Msgr. Al Contons, HM. Reservations to be made directly with the Franciscan Guest House. Special rate for K of L members. Any questions contact Shirley at 860-633-3127 or by email at [email protected].

23rd K of L Tour Lithuania Begins

July 2014 4th Independence Day – God Bless America! 6th Coronation Day - Lithuania 7th K of L Tour to Lithuania Returns 24th-27th 101st National Convention – Host Council 133, Los Angeles, CA

August 2014 16th-17th The 100th annual Lithuanian Days,

Schuylkill Mall, Frackville, PA. Sponsored by Council 144.

September 2014 1st Labor Day 8th Feast of Our Lady of Šiluva 20th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m October 2014 18th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m 31st Halloween November 2014 1st All Saints’ Day Council 17 – 100th Anniversary Celebration,

South Boston, MA. 2nd All Souls’ Day 15th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m 27th Thanksgiving Day

December 2014 6th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m 24th Christmas Eve 25th Christmas Day 31st New Year’s Eve January 2015 1st Happy New Year 17th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m. February 2015 14th Valentine’s Day 16th Lithuanian Independence Day – Valio Lietuva! 21st Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m. March 2015 4th St. Casimir’s Day 14th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m. April 2015 18th Mid-America District Bowling @ El-Mar

Bowling Alley, Burbank, IL @ 4:00p.m. Reminder: We can’t include it on the calendar if you don’t let us know!


"Our deepest joy comes from

Christ: remaining with him,

walking with him, being his

disciples." ー Pope Francis I

PERIODICALS

Postage Paid at

Chicago, IL

and Additional Mailing Locations

Permit # USPS 663-680

Saints John XXIII and John Paul II Pray for us!

Canonization: Sunday, April 27, 2014

Photos borrowed from https://canonization2014.com/ with our gratitude.

Documents

Vytis - The Knight March/April 2014