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SAVE HOLY CROSS

Holy Cross Lithuanian RC Church celebrated the 102nd Lithuanian

Independence Day on Sunday, February 16th, 2020 beginning with

1030a mass. Our celebrant for the day was Father Joseph Kindell. We had beautiful

flowers on the alters from our friends at Furst the Florist and what a striking job they did

on all four of the settings. The choir was lead by organiat Aaron Geiger and included

Kristy Geiger, Connie Geiger, Jim Geiger, Eric Geiger, Michael Petkus, Norma Petkus,

Annamarie Berger, Regina Mikalauskas, and guitarist MaryAgnes Mikalauskas. The

readers for the mass were Molly Walters and Raimingas Laigminas. Server for the day

was Dylan Haas. Offertory bearers included Marian and George A. Mikalauskas II.

Eurcharistic ministers were Chris August, Annelouise Tucker, Lou and Tillie Dukro.

Continued on page 18

IRON Wolf

f

Kovas* March * 2020 * V 3 * # 3

Knights of Lithuania #96 * Dayton, OH

Dayton, OH Lithuanians &

Friends of Holy Cross

Lithuanian RC Church

M a g a z i n e

KNIGHTS of LITHUANIA #96 Lithuanian Independence Day 1 C96 Officers 2 Kovas 2 Upcoming Calendar 3 Upcoming Events 5 President Dalia Grybauskaitė 7 WELCOME new members! 9 Regina Mikalauskas 10 Mayor Nan Whaley 11 General Consul Ingrida Bublys 12 Lithuanian President Nausėda 13 State of Lithuania 13 Lithuanian Independence Day 14 Holy Cross Koffee Klatch 17 Lithuanian Independence Day 18 Ragolis or Tree Cakes 25 Children’s Pages 26 Our Lady of Šuliva 26 K of L Scholarship 27 Lithuanian Anglers 28 Lithuania in spring 32 Things to do in Vilnius 33 St. Casimir 36 Lithuanian Partisans 39 Birthdays & name days 48 Region XII 49 Support IRON WOLF 50 K of L Membership Application 51

Join us for mass every Sunday at 1030am

Holy Cross Lithuanian RC Church 1924 Leo Street * Old North Dayton

Pastoral Region XII Father Tony Cutcher, Pastor Father Ambrose Dobrozsi Father Joe Kindel, in residence Father Johann Roten, S.M.

Pray the rosary to

Our Lady of Šuliva for

HOLY CROSS

Photo by Eric Geiger

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SINCE YOU ARE READING THIS…. THANK OUR SPONSORS & consider being one! If you are unable to be a sponsor, consider asking your dentist, doctor,

baker, or barber to be a sponsor. We need patrons to keep the newsletter successful.

Kovas (March) may derive from the noun kovas, the rook, or noun kova,

meaning battle. Rooks increase their activity at this time, building their nests and mating. The alternate derivation refers to the struggle between winter and spring. It was formerly known as morčius and karvelinis.

C96 Officers &

Committees

President -

Michael Petkus 1st VP - Membership

Nathan Fletcher 3rd VP – Junior Members

Tina Kavy Recording Secretary -

Anne Louise Tucker Treasurer -

Alex Fletcher Financial Secretary -

Mary Petkus Trustees -

George A. Mikalauskas & Daniel Tucker Sgt. at Arms -

Adam Fletcher Religious -

Frances Petkus Lithuanian / Cultural Affairs - Michael Petkus Ritual committee -

Anne Louise Tucker IRON WOLF Magazine -

MaryAgnes Mikalauskas Historian -

Elena Mikalauskas Social committee -

Annamarie Sluzas Berger Condolence -

Julie Goecke By-Laws -

Nathan Fletcher & Frances Petkus SARYSIS / Parish Council -

Lauretta Pant Vytis correspondent - Open & need a volunteer Trumpet correspondent – Open & need a volunteer Public Relations -

Open & need a volunteer Ways & Means -

Open & need a volunteer Sports committee –

Open & need a volunteer Photographer -

Open & need a volunteer

Offices and committees

are elected annually in October by the general membership and are open to those in good standing with a willingness to work for the good of the organization. A complete position description is available in the by-laws.

MaryAgnes Mikalauskas * 937.461.7139 * 224 Rita Blvd. * Dayton, Ohio 45404-2060 mamikalauskas@aol.com IRON WOLF is published monthly by the Knights of Lithuania #96, Dayton, OH, USA. Subscription is free for 1 year (12 issues) with your paid

dues for membership in the Knights of Lithuania national organization. Additional printed requests are $2 per + $2 postage per issue or free

via pfd. & email. Email requests to mamikalauskas@aol.com. The IRON WOLF is a free & open forum for the expression of opinions. The

opinions expressed herein are solely the opinion of the author & in no way reflect the opinion of the publisher, staff or advertisers. IRON

WOLF claims no ownership of any material contained within this newsletter except for stated original articles or advertising. Every effort

has been made to give reference to information & historical material. It is presented for the sole use of your enjoyment & to learn more

about the Lithuanian community, past & present members, sponsors, friends, & other nationalities represented by our membership and

church community. IRON WOLF is not responsible for the accuracy of any & all information contained within advertisements. IRON WOLF

reserves the right to edit all submitted materials including press releases, letters to the editor, articles, calendar listings for brevity and

clarity. IRON WOLF is not legally responsible for the accuracy of calendar or directly listings, nor is it responsible for possible

postponements, cancelations, or changes in venue. Manuscripts, documents and photographs sent to the IRON WOLF become the physical

property of the publication, which is not responsible for the return or loss of such material. The IRON WOLF is a member of the national

Knights of Lithuania organization, Chicago, IL, USA.

Articles are accepted from readers like you for the IRON WOLF newsletter. You may submit via email or in person.

St. Peter’s Catholic Church

6161 Chambersburg Road Huber Heights, Ohio 45424

Phone 937.233.1503 FAX 937.237.3523 Office 8a to 4p Mon to Fri

REGIONXII.org

Father Tony Cutcher, Pastor Father Ambrose Dobrozsi Darren Backstrom, Business Manager Joy Blaul, Pastoral Associate Laura Joliat, Communications

S A C R A M E N T S BAPTISM: The baptismal preparation class is the 1st Sat, 9a-1030a in the Senior Center at St. Peter Parish. 937.237.3516 to RSVP for the baptism class and 937.233.1503 to schedule the baptism. Baptisms are held after the 11a Sunday Mass at St. Peter. Baptisms at Holy Cross, Our Lady of the Rosary, and St. Adalbert are by request. MARRIAGE: Arrangements are made 6 months in advance. Call Parish Office at 937.233.1503. RECONCILIATION: Sat 3p-4p at St. Peter & 4p-430p at Our Lady of the Rosary, 1st Sun; at St. Adalbert from 8a-830a & Holy Cross 10a-1030a. Also, by request. ANOINTING of the SICK: Priests are available to administer the Sacrament of the Sick. Please call the Parish Administration Office at 937.233.1503.

PARISH CHURCH BULLETIN DEADLINE. Bulletin articles are due in writing by Friday at 12noon (10 days before the Sunday bulletin date), emailed to ljoliat@saintpeterparish.org or mailed or dropped off at the Parish Administration Office. For additional information, please contact Laura in the

Parish Administration Office at 937.233.1503.

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Upcoming Events…mark your

calendars… so you can PARTICIPATE

BINGO is every Wednesday afternoon in the Church hall! All

adults invited to this social with light refreshments and a good time. Meet your old friends and make new ones. Come any time after 1130a and grab your seat.

HOLY HOUR is every Wednesday at 530p at Holy Cross Church. Come to church during the middle of the week and pray with your fellow friends. Celebrates God’ work in our community.

HOLY CROSS LITHUANIAN

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

SARYSIS Council President James Geiger @ 937.896.7996

Council Secretary Mary Petkus @ 937.898.8177

BINGO James Geiger @ 937.896.7996

Choir Director Connie Geiger @ 937.836.7996

Knights of Lithuania Michael Petkus @ 937.422.7946

Lithuanian Anglers Kyle O’Brien

Lithuanian Culture Council Michael Petkus @ 937.422.7946

Lithuanian Vejeliai Dance Group Eric Geiger @ 937.896.7996

St. Peter’s Society George A. Mikalauskas @ 937.275.8235

ST. CASIMIR’S DAY

Sponsored by the Knights of Lithuania, is

SUNDAY, March 1st beginning with 1030a mass. Immediately following

mass we go to the church hall for our event to celebrate the patron saint of

Lithuania and Poland. Alex, Adam, and Nathan Fletcher are in charge of this occasion. All parishioners and members invited to celebrate at this

free event.

Koffee Klatch is every Sunday immediately following 1030a mass in the Holy Cross church hall. All

invited to this free event sponsored by the Knights of Lithuania. Hosts are always welcome. Sign up on the calendar.

The Knights of Lithuania meeting is usually every 1st Sunday of the month in Holy Cross church hall

immediately following 1030a mass and Koffee klatch. Tell a buddy & bring a friend. Our next meeting is MAR 1st.

Known around the world by many

names including Shrove Tuesday,

Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras, Fastnacht,

and Carnival, Užgavėnės is one of

the most jubilant Lithuanian holiday

celebrations. Seven weeks before

Easter and the day before Ash

Wednesday, Užgavėnės marks the

end of winter and the beginning of

Lent. Lithuania’s unique version of

Mardi Gras, it is a day filled with

food, dance, and merriment.

This holiday is known for its

pancakes served with an abundance

of toppings. These pancakes are

similar to breakfast pancakes made

with flour and buttermilk, but are

heavier and crispier since they are

fried in hot oil or lard. Toppings

include sour cream, fruit sauces and

syrups, and caviar among others.

Lithuanians feast on pancakes

throughout the day as a last hurrah

before the long Lenten fast.

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Lithuania National Anthem Lietuva, Tėvyne mūsų, Tu didvyrių žeme, Iš praeities Tavo sūnūs Te stiprybę semia. Tegul Tavo vaikai eina Vien takais dorybės, Tegul dirba Tavo naudai Ir žmonių gėrybei. Tegul saulė Lietuvoj Tamsumas prašalina, Ir šviesa, ir tiesa Mūs žingsnius telydi. Tegul meilė Lietuvos Dega mūsų širdyse, Vardan tos, Lietuvos Vienybė težydi!

Knights of Lithuania Vyčių Himnas Nuženk, Galybe iš dangaus, Sustiprink jauną Vyčių dvasią! Mes už teisybę stosim drąsiai Tėvynę ginti kuo narsiau. štai plevesuoja vėliava. Ką kalba jos žymė? Ei, Vyčiai, gyvenam Tautai ir Bažnyčiai Mūsų širdyse Lietuva, mintys, darbai, karšta malda. Ei, Vyčiai, gyvenam Tautai ir Bažnyčiai

M A R C H

SUPPORTERS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anonymous

Venice & Armon Grantham, c96

Jim & Sharon Goldschmidt

Fred P. Kreuzer, CPA & Associates

Karen A. Kuritar

Vida McQuiston

Elena Mikalauskas, c96

Frances & George A.

Mikalauskas, c96

Marian, Regina, George II Mikalauskas,

c96

Joann & Gary Thiele, c96

Ačiŭ IRON WOLF 2020 supporters: SPONSOR

PATRON Jim & Sharon Goldschmidt

Fred P. Kreuzer, CPA & Associates Elena Mikalauskas, c96

Frances & George A. Mikalauskas, c96 CHAMPION

Vida McQuiston MaryAgnes Mikalauskas, c96

ANGEL

GUARDIAN ANGEL + Anonymous

Venice & Armon Grantham, c96

Ačiŭ IRON WOLF 2019 supporters:

SPONSOR Joan Kavalauskas, c96

Marian, Regina & George II Mikalauskas, c96

Lauretta & Henry Pant, c96 Joan Tillman, c102

Constance Zilinkas, c96 PATRON

Anonymous Paul & Susan Binkis, c112

Victoria Zilinkas Carter, c96 Regina Mikalas Dell Fred P. Kreuzer, CPA

Elena Mikalauskas, c96 Frances & George Mikalauskas, c96

Terry & Jerry Scott, c96 CHAMPION

Karen A. Kuritar Gecas – McCarthy Family, c96

Joann & Gary Thiele, c96 ANGEL

MaryAgnes Mikalauskas, c96 Dr. Alan Wilimitis, DO

GUARDIAN ANGEL Venice & Armon Grantham, c96

Ačiŭ IRON WOLF 2018 supporters: Venice Grantham

Barb Kreuzer Fred P. Kreuzer, CPA & Associates

Lithuanian Anglers Elena Mikalauskas

MaryAgnes Mikalauskas Dr. Alan Wilimitis, DO

Upcoming Events…mark your

calendars… so you can PARTICIPATE

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Letters & more…

MaryAgnes,

Just a note to say thank you for

all your work and compassion for Our

Lord. I wish all of you were here in

San Antonio! I agree with what you

wrote about the ethnic cleansing –

the last time I was visiting my three

cousins, all three are nuns and blood

sisters in Brockton, MA, the

Archdiocese had closed down the

Catholic Church. This has been

takin place for quite some time. We

are praying for more priests.

God bless you. Thank you for

the Merry Christmas notice for our

Texas groups. We were called

“Lithuanians in Texas” for 25 years.

Now we joined the “Lithuanian

American Community of San

Antonio”. Houston has a group

(Lithuanian American Community of

Houston) and we are Lithuanian

American Community of San

Antonio.

I am working on our Lithuanian

Independence Day. We do Kugelis!

Take care and God bless all of you!!

Love, Venice and Armon Grantham

MID AMERICA DISTRICT NEWS…Winter

District Meeting at St. Casimir’s Day Mass and meeting will be held on Saturday March 7th, 2020, at the Sisters of St. Casimir Mother House, 2601 W. Marquette Rd, Chicago, IL 60629. The Mid-America District Board will be our host. We will attend Mass beginning at 930s. We will also be presenting a 4th degree to a deserving Knight. After Mass, we will have coffee and pastries in the dining room with the meeting to follow. Also, please park in the lot and not behind the building in the fire lane. Contact Susan Binkis at 773-471-4804 or sbinkis@gmail.com, or Georgi Macke at 630-416-0658 or jurgina318@yahoo.com. Please RSVP no later than Monday, March 2, 2020. See you soon!

Congratulations!

Mackenzie Mooney from C-16 won a first place ribbon for the straw ornament she entered at the Oklahoma State Fair! She was in the Unpainted Christmas Ornament category with the one that she made at our summer convention with the help of wonderful instructor Theresa di Cello from Kenosha. Many thanks to Theresa. Mackenzie made our Lithuanian heritage proud in Oklahoma! Awesome job!

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Upcoming Events…

CELEBRATION of LIFE ~ Sue Papp ~ On Sat, Feb 29th, after the 5:00p mass at Our Lady of the Rosary, all family, friends, and parishioners are invited to dinner in Shumaker Hall for a CELEBRATION of LIFE for SUE PAPP. Sue volunteered 40 years of her life to OLR. She was known for cafeteria manager at the school, Bingo coordinator, senior breakfast caterer and decor, and most recently tirelessly serving as OLR Sacristan. Sue shared an unconditional love for her parish and we are so grateful for her kindness. Plan to attend dinner and honor Sue.

Put these items on your

SAVE THE DATE calendar:

March 1st St. Casimir’s Day Celebration 1030a mass followed by activities and

luncheon in the church hall.

FREE and open to all. Children welcome!

Hosted by Alex Fletcher, Nathan Fletcher &

Adam Fletcher.

President Dalia Grybauskaitė is presenting at Miami University of Oxford in March for the visiting lecture series. Our Cincinnati Lithuanian group has planned the March 15th Lithuanian Independence Celebration for all on Sunday, March 15th beginning at 1pm at Xavier University. Also on the program is the musical group from Klaipeda, Lithuania. Please plan to attend to speak to her personally. Details next few pages and on the Cincinnati Facebook page. Please check with Eric Geiger and log into the FRIENDS of Holy Cross Facebook page for current and up to minute… activities and changes for Knights of Lithuania, church and all published activities!

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President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaitė at

Xavier University …please join us for this momentous event!

Commemoration of the Lithuanian Independence Day with

President Dalia Grybauskaitė and Klaipeda Youth Theater

Sunday, March 15th * 1pm (doors open at 12:30)

Musical performance “Beautiful and Powerful She Is”

Conaton Boardroom, Xavier University

Free entrance (voluntary donation to the Lithuanian Community is encouraged)

Light refreshments and cash bar.

Schedule · Sunday, March 15, 2020

1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Reception

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Formal event.

Keynote speaker President Dalia Grybauskaitė

2:15 PM - 2:45 PM Intermission

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM Play performance "Beautiful and Powerful She Is"

3:45 PM - 5:00 PM Coffee and desserts

Hosted by Darius Sabaliunas

Cincinač io Lietuvių Bendruomenė / Cincinnati Lithuanian Community

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DIRECTIONS TO XAVIER UNIVERSITY

CONATON BOARD ROOM, SCHMIDT HALL

DRIVING INTERSTATE 75 TRAVELING SOUTH: I-75 South to Mitchell Avenue exit, turn left on Mitchell

...follow Mitchell until it ends; turn left onto Clinton Springs which turns into Dana Avenue. Follow Dana

until you see the University (on your left). Cross Victory Parkway and turn left onto University Drive at the

guardhouse entrance.

TO CONATON BOARD ROOM: After entering at the guardhouse, there will be parking spaces located immediately past the guardhouse, on

University Drive, and in lots just below University Drive. Conaton Board Room is on the second floor of Schmidt

Hall. Schmidt Hall is the second building on University Drive. The main entrance to Schmidt Hall is at the circular

staircase. Once in the building, there are steps immediately to your left, or an elevator at the end of the hallway

opposite the steps.

Fred P. Kreuzer, CPA & Associates 5 W. Wenger Rd, Suite F | Englewood OH 45322 | 937.832.0620

www.fredpkreuzercpa.com | Email: info@fredpkreuzercpa.com

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August we had a membership campaign for c96 Knights of Lithuania. Last month, February 2020, we were extremely proud to announce four [4] new and re-joining members for Dayton! These new folks were Joseph Michael Mantz, Joseph Peter Mantz, Regina Mikalauskas and Laima Rastikis. This month, March 2020, the success of new membership continues with three [3] additional members for c96! Let’s give a big Dayton Lithuanian welcome to…Carolyn and Paul Flanagan & Eleanor Presutti!

Carolyn Flanagan, Lithuanian heritage

Eleanor Presutti, Lithuanian heritage

Paul Flanagan, married to Lithuanian

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Knights of Lithuania Council # 96 * Condolence Report

If there are any changes to the birthday list and / or other cards to be sent,

Please email those changes to Julie Goecke at jgoecke1973@gmail.com

CONGRATULATIONS to 2019 JR member Regina Mikalauskas for being inducted into the National Honor Society of Newton High School,

1 of 11 for this year in all of the 10th, 11th and 12th grades!

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2020-02-16 Dear Fellow People, Dear Guests! Today we are celebrating a beautiful dream that has come true. One hundred and two years ago, members of the Council of Lithuania confirmed by their signature the birth of the independent Republic of Lithuania. They embodied the vision of Lithuania that had been resonating for long years in the hearts of our enlightened people and through the pages of Aušra – until the Great Seimas of Vilnius called on all patriots to get to work.

Namely, this historic event was made possible by the streamlined efforts of many prominent figures as they worked, year after year, to wake the nation and guide it to new life. Priest Juozas Tumas-Vaižgantas described the work and activities of the Vileišis brothers – well-known Lithuanian enlighteners – in the following manner: „Downpours do not refresh the earth. The earth is revitalized by continuous light rain with every drop falling directly on the soil”.

It took many raindrops to awaken the nation. As if rising from a long bad dream, the sons and daughters of Lithuania reconnected with the cultural heritage of their ancestors, rediscovered their national identity and brought the vision of freedom to maturity. They needed a lot of knowledge and wisdom as well as courage to make independence more than just a distant dream.

The architects of the Lithuanian state were united not only by their love of homeland, but also by their strong belief in the power of the printed word and science. A whole generation of young people who came from small villages and manors proved that there was nothing impossible for those with intense thirst for knowledge and passion to educate. The life path of many signatories of the Act of Independence started with secret Lithuanian schools banned Lithuanian books and foreign university auditoriums. The education they received through hard work broadened their knowledge and deepened their love of Lithuania.

It is not by chance that today we speak of doctor Jonas Basanavičius – a relentless Lithuanian educator, publicist, popularizer of science and, first and foremost, our mentor – with a feeling of immense respect. The Patriarch of the Nation as one of his most significant accomplishments had the foundation of the Lithuanian Scientific Society dedicated to spreading the ideas of national revival. The Society, established after the Great Seimas of Vilnius, gathered together influential figures of deep intellectual insight, including the Vileišis brothers, Vaižgantas, Antanas Smetona, and many others.

It was only the enlightened and educated people driven by a common goal who could achieve a breakthrough in the case of Lithuanian independence and withstand the pressure of alien powers. Their valuable legacy helped Lithuania stand up to the challenges that followed and continue forward. Therefore, this February 16, I call on you not only to commemorate past historic achievements and pay tribute to the heroes who built the nation, but also to direct our thoughts and hearts to the future.

I believe that education can lift us up again, like one hundred years ago, making us dream big and act bigger. The future of our children will be shaped by the ability of the Lithuanian education system to adapt to the winds of the 21st century. The future prosperity of a free society is inseparable from the values and skills that we pass on to future generations. We cannot create a strong economy without educational and scientific advancement. We cannot generate fresh and original ideas without a strong and vibrant academic community.

We can no longer waste talents if we wish to build a brighter tomorrow for our nation. We must ensure education that is socially fair and accessible to all children of Lithuania, wherever they may live. We must focus on achieving the best possible progress across all areas – from pre-school to higher education – because this is the only way to bring up a new generation of free and independent nation builders. Because the state is created not just for a fleeting moment, but for long centuries. Because the building process never stops! Because the architects of a state are educated, active and dynamic citizens with big hearts – let us never forget that!

Address by President Gitanas Nausėda at the Flag Raising Ceremony in Daukanto Square

Thank you to: kanceliarija@president.lt for our Presidential Greetings!

, II

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Act of the Re-Establishment of the

State of Lithuania

The Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania or Act of March 11 (Lithuanian: Aktas dėl Lietuvos nepriklausomos valstybės atstatymo) was an independence declaration by Lithuania adopted on March 11, 1990, signed by all members of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Lithuania led by Sąjūdis. The act emphasized restoration and legal continuity of the interwar-period Lithuania, which was occupied by the USSR and lost independence in June 1940. It was the first time that an occupied state declared independence from the dissolving Soviet Union.

Background. Loss of independence. After the partitions of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in the 18th century, Lithuania was part of the Russian Empire. In the aftermath of the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Council of Lithuania, chaired by Jonas Basanavičius, proclaimed the Act of Independence of Lithuania on February 16, 1918. Lithuania enjoyed independence for two decades. In August 1939, the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany signed the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact dividing Eastern Europe into spheres of influence. The Baltic states (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia) were assigned to the Soviet sphere of influence and subsequently were occupied in June 1940 and converted into soviet socialist republics. In Lithuania's case, President Antanas Smetona left the country rather than accept the occupation. He did not resign but turned over his presidential duties to Prime Minister Antanas Merkys as per the constitution. The next day, Merkys declared himself president in his own right. Two days later, under Soviet pressure, he appointed Justas Paleckis, a left-wing journalist and longtime opponent of the Smetona regime, as prime minister. Merkys then resigned at Moscow's insistence, making Paleckis acting president as well. The Soviets then used the Paleckis government to give the final Soviet takeover the appearance of legality. The Paleckis government staged a heavily rigged election for a "People's Seimas," in which voters were presented with a single Communist-dominated list. The newly-elected People's Seimas met on July 21 with only one piece of business–a resolution declaring Lithuania a Soviet republic and petitioning for admission to the Soviet Union, which carried unanimously. The Soviet Union duly "approved" the request on August 3. Since then, Soviet sources have maintained that Lithuania's petition to join the Soviet Union marked the culmination of a Lithuanian socialist revolution, and thus represented the legitimate desire of the Lithuanian people to join the Soviet Union. The Soviet authorities undertook Sovietization policies: nationalization of all private property, collectivization of agriculture, suppression of the Catholic Church, and the imposition of totalitarian control. At the same time, free education and free national health system were also introduced. The armed anti-Soviet partisans were liquidated by 1953. Approximately 130,000 Lithuanians, dubbed "enemies of the people", were deported into Siberia (see June deportation and March deportation). After the death of Joseph Stalin in 1953, the Soviet Union adopted de-Stalinization policies and ended mass persecutions. Nonviolent resistance continued both in Lithuania and among the Lithuanian diaspora. These movements were secret, illegal, and more focused on social issues, human rights, and cultural affairs rather than political demands.

Independence movements. As Mikhail Gorbachev attempted to revive the economy of the Soviet Union, he introduced glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring). Gorbachev's political agenda went for great and deep changes within the Soviet government, as such, Gorbachev invited the Soviet public into open and public discussions unseen before. For the soviet Lithuanian dissidents, and activists, it was a golden opportunity not to be missed, to bring their movements from underground into the public life. On August 23, 1987 (48th anniversary of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact), the Lithuanian Liberty League organized the first public protest rally that did not result in arrests. Encouraged by the non-arrests, by mid-1988, a group of 35 intellectuals organized the Sąjūdis Reform Movement with the original goal of supporting, discussing, and implementing Gorbachev's reforms yet short of openly supporting independence from the USSR. However, Sąjūdis grew in popularity, attracting large crowds to rallies in Vingis Park and therefore radicalizing its agenda, taking advantage of

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Gorbachev's passiveness. By 1989, Sąjūdis, not afraid of angering Moscow and causing a violent clampdown, continuously pushed further with its demands: from limited discussions on Gorbachev's reforms, to demand of greater say in economic decisions, to political autonomy within the Soviet Union. By the time of the Baltic Way, a human chain spanning over 600 kilometers (370 mi) across the three Baltic States to mark the 50th anniversary of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, full independence was the official goal of Sąjūdis.

Democratic election. Parliamentary elections of February 1990 were the first free and democratic elections in Lithuania since World War II. The people overwhelmingly voted for the candidates endorsed by Sąjūdis, even though the movement did not run as a political party. The result was the first post-war non-communist government. During its first assembly on March 11, 1990, the Supreme Soviet of the Lithuanian SSR elected Vytautas Landsbergis as its chairman and restored Lithuania's prewar name of the Republic of Lithuania. It then changed its name to the Supreme Council of the Republic of Lithuania, and formally declared the re-establishment of Lithuanian independence. The act was approved at 10:44 pm by 124 members of the council while six abstained. There were no votes against.

SUPREME COUNCIL OF THE REPUBLIC OF LITHUANIA

ACT On the Re-establishment of the State of Lithuania

The Supreme Council of the Republic of Lithuania, expressing the will of the nation, decrees and solemnly proclaims that the execution of the sovereign powers of the State of Lithuania abolished by foreign forces in 1940, is re-established, and henceforth Lithuania is again an independent state. The Act of Independence of 16 February 1918 of the Council of Lithuania and the Constituent Assembly decree of 15 May 1920 on the re-established democratic State of Lithuania never lost their legal effect and comprise the constitutional foundation of the State of Lithuania. The territory of Lithuania is whole and indivisible, and the constitution of no other State is valid on it. The State of Lithuania stresses its adherence to universally recognized principles of international law, recognizes the principle of inviolability of borders as formulated in the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe in Helsinki in 1975, and guarantees human, civil, and ethnic community rights. The Supreme Council of the Republic of Lithuania, expressing sovereign power, by this Act begins to realize the complete sovereignty of the state. The Supreme Council took the line that Lithuania's original declaration of independence in 1918 was still valid and considered the Act to be a reassertion of an independence that still legally existed under international law. It was based on the premise that Smetona never resigned, and Merkys' takeover of the presidency was illegal and unconstitutional. Lithuania's official position on the matter since then has been that all subsequent acts leading up to the Soviet annexation was ipso facto void.

Litas commemorative coin dedicated to the 10th anniversary of Independence

Aftermath. The Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania served as a model and inspiration to other Soviet republics. However, the issue of independence was not immediately settled and recognition by other countries was not certain.

Mikhail Gorbachev called the Act of Independence illegal and the USSR demanded revocation of the Act and began applying sanctions against Lithuania including an economic blockade. In addition, on January 13, 1991 Soviet forces stormed the Parliament building in Vilnius along with the Vilnius TV Tower. Unarmed civilian Lithuanians confronted Soviet soldiers. Fourteen people were killed and seven hundred injured in what became known as January Events. On May 31, 1990, the

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Supreme Soviet of Moldavian SSR voted to recognize the Restoration of the Independence of Lithuania. The Parliament of Moldavia was the first in the world to recognize Lithuania's Independence, but Moldavia was still part of the Soviet Union. On February 11, 1991, the Icelandic parliament voted to confirm that Iceland's 1922 recognition of Lithuanian independence was still in full effect, as it never formally recognized the Soviet Union's control over Lithuania, and that full diplomatic relations should be established as soon as possible. They were followed by Denmark, Slovenia and Croatia (within Yugoslavia) and Latvia. After the failed August Coup, Lithuanian independence recognition was reconfirmed by the United States on September 2. President George H.W. Bush announced that if the Soviet Union were to use armed force against Lithuania, the U.S. would react accordingly. Finally, on September 6, 1991 Lithuania's independence was recognized by the Soviet Union. Then recognition of Lithuania's independence was quickly followed by several countries including China, India and Belarus as well as Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. On September 17, 1991, it was welcomed as a member of the United Nations along with Estonia and Latvia. Since 2004, Lithuania along with Estonia and Latvia became members of the European Union and NATO. The country eventually banned displays of Soviet and Nazi symbols in 2008.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Act_of_the_Re-Establishment_of_the_State_of_Lithuania

When is Restoration of Independence Day?

Restoration of Independence Day is a public holiday in Lithuania, always celebrated on 11th March.

This holiday marks the declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on 11 March 1990.

History of Restoration of Independence Day

By the 18th century, Lithuania had become part of the Russian Empire. After the end of the WWI, Lithuania

became an independent country in 1918.

During the WWII, the Soviets and Nazi Germany agreed a pact on who would occupy several countries in the

region and as a result, the Soviets occupied the country in 1940.

The promotion of perestroika (Mikhail Gorbachev's social reform policies) within the Soviet Union created a desire

within Lithuania to adopt the policies and that grew into a call for independence.

The Lithuanian people voted for self-rule in elections held in February 1990, and the new democratically elected

parliament declared independence from the Soviet Union on 11 March 1990.

The Soviet Union reacted negatively to the act of independence and began an economic blockade against

Lithuania and eventually resorted to violence against people holding vigil around the capital buildings in Vilnius

on 13 January 1991. Outrage from around the world stopped the attack and Lithuania's independence was

recognized by the Soviets later that year.

Within a year the influence of perestroika and independence movements across an increasing number of Soviet

states brought about the disintegration of the Soviet Union.

This holiday is not to be confused with Restoration of the State Day, celebrated on 16th February, which marks

the act of independence from Germany in 1918.

www.officeholidays.com/holidays/lithuania/lithuania-restoration-of-independence-day

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Knights of Lithuania’s New weekly…

Koffee Klatch

Since the first Sunday of January, January 5th, 2020, the Knights of Lithuanian started sponsoring a weekly

Koffee Klatch. Immediately following 1030a mass at Holy Cross Lithuanian Church, we immediately travel all

the way to the church hall for food, fun and friends. The refrigerator is open and the music is always on.

Different hosts have stepped up to the plate including those who contribute regular delicious goodies for all to

enjoy. Thanks to the following who have contributed both in service and in-kind for the January activities so

far: Annelouise Tucker, Mary Petkus, Carol August, Karen Kuritar, Charlie August, Patty Palmer, Annemarie

Berger, Mark Berger, Chris Mantz, Alex Fletcher, Adam Fletcher, Joe Fletcher, Nathan Fletcher, Terri Scott,

Erin Petkus, Fran Petkus, Joe Mantz, Joseph Michael Mantz, Elena Mikalauskas, MaryAgnes Mikalauskas,

Frances & George Mikalauskas. [I apologize in advance if I have failed to mention your name yet.]

Please check the wall calendar and sign up to be a weekly host: it only consists of buying some goodies, set-up,

and enjoying company. Turn the bills into Alex.

February 2nd, 2020 with Father Tony, and 82 people at mass and church hall

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Lithuanian Independence Day…

Following mass we proceeded to the church hall. Annamarie Sluzas

Berger and Chris Fletcher were our hosts for the afternoon, organizing

quit the event. We were able to enjoy a Lithuanian cultural display in the

meeting room and on the hall stage. Annamarie exhibited her family

Lithuanian costumes for all to see using life-like manikins. In the meeting

room, a national display or traditional Lithuanian items was avalable for

all to enjoy. Contributors for the display included Annamarie and Mark

Berger, Chris Fletcher, Norma Petkus, Connie and Jim Geiger, Regina

Juska Svoba and MaryAgnes Mikalauskas.

We enjoyed a well prepared feast of a multitude of homemade baked

delicious items. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the main food

table, cheese and crackers table, and dessert tables. Regina Juska Svoba

brought a ragolis direct from Cleveland for the celebration. Read all about

the special cake in the article to follow.

MaryAgnes Mikalauskas opened the program for the afternoon by

welcoming all parishioners from Holy Cross, St. Stephan, St. Adalbert,

Our Lady or Rosary, St. Peter’s, and friends and family. Michael Petkus,

Knights of Lithuania #96 was thanked for his agreement to have the K of

L host today’s events. Jim Geiger, president of the Sarysis was thanked

for sponsoring our occasion. Two proclamations were received, read

and posted in the church hall. Our friend, Ingrida Bublys, Lithuanian

General Consul of Cleveland and Nan Whaley, Mayor of Dayton, sent

declarations on the joyous occasion of Lithuania’s 102nd day of

independence.

Knights of Lithuania Supreme Council President Regina Juska Svoba of

Detroit, spoke to us in both English and Lithuanian. She stressed the need

to remain vigilant and strong willed in continuing our Catholic faith and

to remain committed to our Lithuanian heritage. We certainly

appreciated her spending the weekend with us.

The afternoon was filled with good times and friends as we enjoyed each

other and appreciated our friendships.

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Church photos by Eric Geiger

Raphael, Eleanor and Felicity Stange by MaryAgnes

MaryAgnes photo by Elena Mikalauskas

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Regina Juska Svoba photo by

Elena Mikalauskas

Mike Petkus and Dr. Dysas Father Joe Kindell getting ready to pray, in English

21

George A. Mikalauskas II, Joe Fletcher, Adam

Fletcher, Alex Fletcher, Joe Berger

Jim Geiger, Molly Walters, Dylan Haas & Connie Geiger Mark Berger and his sister Suzanne

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Frances Petkus Frances Mikalauskas Mark, Annamarie and Joe Berger

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Annamarie Sluzas Berger and Chris Fletcher

Annamarie Berger, Adam Fletcher, Elena Mikalauskas, Regina Juska Svoba

Joe Mantz, Michael Petkus, George A. Mikalauskas, Joseph Michael Mantz

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Lithuanian

Cultural display

designed by

Annamarie Sluzas Berger

25

thespruceeats.com/all-about-eastern-european-tree-cakes-1136751

All about Eastern European

Tree Cakes

Written by Barbara Rolek

Polish and Lithuanian Tree Cakes. In Poland, tree cake is known as sękacz (SAYN-kahch) or senkacz which, loosely

translated, means "bark." And, in very politically incorrect terminology, it's also known in Poland as "beggar's cake" supposedly from

the days when gypsies stole eggs and made them into a cake because it was more portable on the run than eggs in the shell. In

Lithuania, it's known as raguolis (which means "spiked") or sakotis (which means "branched"). In Hungary, they're known as

kurtoskalács or tepsiben, which means "little chimney cakes" or "stove cakes."

German Tree Cakes. In Germany, it is called baumkuchen, which literally means "tree cake." The final appearance and taste of

the German cakes are a little different from the Polish and Lithuanian versions, which are virtually indistinguishable -- pyramid-shaped

with spiky ends. The technique, however, is the same -- pouring successive layers of batter along with the length of a rotating wooden

pole or stainless-steel rod in front of a heat source. When the hollow cake is cut, it reveals rings similar to a tree trunk, hence its name.

Hungarian Tree Cakes. The Hungarian version -- kurtoskalács -- is often served at traditional weddings, but it's very different

from the Polish, Lithuanian and German versions. It is made with a yeast dough that is rolled and cut into strips and then wrapped

around tubes (originally it was rolled on a log and turned on a spit over an open fire). Today's version can be made in a home oven on

stainless-steel baking tubes that stand vertically. Originally from Transylvania, it is famous as Hungary's oldest pastry. Kurtoskalács is

sold in bakeries, festivals and fairs, and on street corners. Watch this video of Hungarian chimney cake making to get the idea.

Who Invented Tree Cakes? I'm not aware of tree cake existing in other European countries, but it certainly might. As to its

origins, it's the same old song and dance -- Poles say it began there, Lithuanians say they are the creators, and Germans claim it as their own. This much is known about its Polish connections. Cukierna Zaniewicz, a bakery in Poland that specializes in making

sękacz, says the cake originated in eastern Poland (near Lithuania, by the way!), but is now made by them in Miedzyrzec Podlaski in southern Poland.

Legend of Queen Bona Sforza and Tree Cake. The company continues to say on its website that legend has it five

centuries or so ago, Queen Bona Sforza challenged the royal bakers to come up with an exceptional cake for the wedding of her son

Prince Sigmund August, and sękacz was born. Such a laborious and expensive effort (five or more hours of patient ladling of an egg-

rich batter over a rod that was hand cranked) could only be afforded by the nobility, so, naturally, it became coveted by the common

folk and a trend ensued.

Tree Cakes Served Today. To this day, tree cakes are popular on sweets tables at Polish and Lithuanian weddings and for

special occasions like Easter, Christmas and birthdays and special occasions. They are often adorned with fresh flowers and herbs

in the hollow top and at the base. Slices are cut off from the top horizontally and then further divided into bite-size pieces. In a concession to modern times, the pieces are often accompanied by fruit and melted chocolate, and presented very elaborately. How a Lithuanian Tree Cake (Raguolis or Sakotis) is made… how tree cake is made at Racine Bakery in Chicago

26

CHILDREN’S PAGE

Say you prayers every day and night…

OUR FATHER in Lithuanian

Tėve mūsų, kurs esi danguje!

Teesie šventas Tavo vardas,

teateinie Tavo karalystė,

teesie Tavo valia kaip danguje, taip ir ant žemės.

Kasdienės mūsų duonos duok mums šiandiena,

atleisk mums mūsų kaltes, kaip mes atleidžiam savo kaltininkams.

Nevesk mus į pagundą,

bet gelbėk mus nuo pikto. Amen.

Hail Mary in Lithuanian

Sveika, Marija, malonės pilnoji! Viešpats su Tavimi.

Tu pagirta tarp moterų, ir pagirtas Tavo Sūnus Jėzus.

Šventoji Marija, Dievo Motina,

melskis už mus, nusidėjėlius, dabar ir mūsų mirties valandoje. Amen.

Prayer to Our Lady of Šiluva O Most Holy Virgin Mary, thou who didst appear

to the shepherds in the fields at Šiluva, thou whose tears did bathe the rock where once an altar stood, thou who didst with plaintive voice say: “You plow and seed here where formerly my Son was honored,” grant that we, moved by Thy tears, may, once as our Forefathers did, revive the spirit of adoration of Thy Son in our fallow hearts, strengthen the tottering structure of the shrine which is the family, and seek forgiveness for our negligence and sins.

O Mother of God, we desire to raise up the glory of Your revelation from forgotten ruins, that we may more honor

Thee, the Patroness of Lithuania, and with Thy help obtain for us the spirit of a living Faith. Through Christ our

Lord. Amen.

http://www.ourladyofsiluva.org/our_lady/prayer/

COME TO MASS AT HOLY CROSS LITHUANIAN CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY AT 1030a

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The Knights of Lithuania Scholarship

The Knights of Lithuania Scholarship Program is intended to help a worthy and deserving Knight obtain a college education.

Applicants must be a member of the organization for at least two years in order to be eligible to apply for a scholarship award, which is verified with the National Financial Secretary. The Scholarship Program is intended to be a stimulus for young Lithuanian Americans to join and be active in our organization. Service to the Knights of Lithuania organization is of prime importance to be considered for this award. Scholarships are awarded annually and are paid to the recipients in two installments. Applications must be complete (e.g., photo, transcript, recommendations, etc.) to be considered by the Scholarship Committee.

PLEASE NOTE: 1. Applicants may apply for a scholarship more

than once; however, an applicant may only be awarded a scholarship twice.

2. There are various scholarships available with individual amounts decided upon by vote of the Scholarship Committee each year.

3. Each applicant is responsible for completing the application and securing entrance to the college of choice. If the recipient of an award drops out of college, or academic standing becomes unsatisfactory, the unexpended balance of the award may be forfeited.

4. Scholarship awards may be made to a person for undergraduate or graduate work. There is no age limitation. Organizational activity within the Knights of Lithuania is one of the most important criteria for obtaining a scholarship along with the following requirements and stipulations:

An applicant will be scored based on recommendations made by his/her

1) Council President or 3rd Vice President; 2) Spiritual Advisor or Pastor; 3) Former Teacher; 4) Character Reference.

Applicants will be evaluated based on their scholastic records, financial need, and most importantly, Knights of Lithuania involvement. The Scholarship Committee will carefully study the applications. Decisions of the committee are final. Recipients of the Scholarship Awards will be announced at the next National Convention of the Knights of Lithuania.

For the official and complete application go to the Knights of Lithuania scholarship application site and

complete the application form. http://knightsoflithuania.com/scholarship/

Membership application at end of this newsletter…must be a member 2 years!

Important things to remember:

It is imperative the scholarship applicant be

involved in the Knights of Lithuania activities so…

1. Participate regularly in meetings

2. Participate in Knights of Lithuania’s sponsored

activities such as Lithuanian Independence,

St. Casimir’s Day, Palm Sunday breakfast,

Mother’s Day, Cemetery Visits, Fall No-bake

bake-sale, and Christmas Caroling

3. Participate in Lithuanian church activities like

St. Casimir’s mass, Easter mass and Midnight

mass.

4. Attend District meetings and National

conventions

5. Participate in a Lithuanian dance group,

language classes, or cooking class.

6. Write an article for the IRON WOLF newsletter or

Vytis and submit for publication.

It is FREE for “juniors” to join and

be members up thru the age of 18!

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Dayton 2020 Lithuanian Anglers

From left, 1st line: Stevie Mikalas, Tom Pietrzak, George A. Mikalauskas, Mike Laudermilk, Joseph P. Mantz, Joseph M. Mantz

2nd line: Phil Pietrzak, Matt Sanderman, 3rd line: George A. Mikalauskas, II, Brian Citrigno, Neil Geswein

4th line: Kyle O’Brien, Andrew Berczelly

2020 LITHUANIAN ANGLERS: Charlie August, Andrew Berczelly, Mark Berger, Joe Berger, Brian Citrigno,

Neil Geswein, Rob Glaser, Mike Laudermilk Joseph M. Mantz, Joseph P. Mantz, Steve Mikalas, George A. Mikalauskas, George A. Mikalauskas, II, Kyle O'Brien, Henry Pant, Robert Pant, Michael Petkus, Robert Petkus, Phil Pietrzak, Tom Pietrzak, Doyle Robinson, and Matt Sanderman

Meeting and activity dates at Holy Cross Lithuanian church hall:

March 21 Meeting 530p to 10p

August 15 Meeting, 530p to 10p

Sept 25-26 Cooking Kugelis & Mtg. all day

Oct 29-Nov 1 Cooking turtle soup all day

November 1 Kugelis & turtle soup sale 9a to 12n

November 21 Meeting 530p to 10p

SAVE ROOM IN YOUR FREEZER for KUGELIS & TURTLE SOUP for the fall sale!

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Can you name these Lithuanian Anglers and from what year? Standing tall in the vest and tie is Mr. Frank Ambrose, and by the wall on the right side is Mr. John Scott. This is inside the cottage.

Another great shot of five men who are going fishing. And what is fishing? It is having a good time with your friends at the cottage.

Pictures from Annamarie and Mark Berger.

A paradise for anglers Janis Stikuts, jst@fishing.lv

Europe has several wild and unspoilt areas that are a paradise for nature-lovers. The Baltic States and

Poland with their abundant water and forests have among the best examples of such areas, which attract

people from near and far. They come to interact with nature, to walk, gather mushrooms, hunt, and above all

to fish.

The three Baltic countries, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are each blessed with a coastline along the Baltic Sea or the Gulf of

Riga, and plentiful inland waters in the form of lakes both natural and artificial, and rivers. Between them the three countries

boast almost 10,000 lakes and several hundred kilometres of rivers all of which provide fertile fishing grounds for anglers. Fishing

for sport is a well-established pastime in the Baltics. In Estonia, for instance, more than 300,000 people go fishing regularly and

for a further 90,000 it is a major recreational activity. Those with an interest in angling thus represent almost a third of Estonia’s

population of 1.3m.

Janis Stikuts…interest in fly fishing especially for carp is increasing.

Rules and regulations vary slightly from country to country. Despite their similarities and geographic proximity, angling in

the three Baltic States is governed by regulations that vary somewhat from country to country. In Estonia everybody has the right

to fish with a simple hand line for free. This can be done without a specific fishing permit, but only in public waters (lakes, rivers).

30

Of course, any other regulations in force must be respected, for example, temporal and spatial restrictions. These limits are usually

introduced to protect the fish in spawning times, or to regulate the number of specimens of specific species.

Fishing with a simple hand line is easy and at the same time fun. In every water body there are different kinds of fish, which are

not only tasty to eat, but offer the thrill of the catch. For more serious fishing, an angler can consider tackle with up to three hooks.

For this the fisher must buy a fishing permit, which allows the use of a wide range of fishing tackle. The definition of hook gear

includes spinning, hand line, troll line, fly rod, hook, bottom line, trimmer, bottom set longline, drifting longline, surface longline,

spoon bait, mormyshka, reel, and jig. For underwater fishing an angler may use a harpoon gun or a harpoon. When a fisherman

uses some of the fishing tackle mentioned above, he must pay for the fishing rights. Buying a permit is a very easy process which

can even be done on-line at www.pilet.ee, or also with a mobile phone linked to the Estonian GSM net. A permit can also be

purchased the old-fashioned way from points of sale, such as post offices, which are widely distributed in the country. The sales

receipt and a personal ID are needed as proof of purchase. Fishing is free however for certain groups; pre-school age children,

students under 16 year of age, pensioners, and the disabled, subject to proof. Fees for fishing are modest: EUR1 per day, EUR3

per week, EUR13 for six months, and EUR20 per year. Fishing in Järvamaa County in central Estonia requires a special license,

which costs EUR6 per day. This can be bought at the local environmental administration, which is located in every city.

Fishing is possible in nature reserves in Lithuania. Lithuania is the biggest of the three Baltic States and also richly endowed

with natural beauty in the form of woods, rivers, and lakes. The rules and regulations governing angling in Lithuania are like

those in Estonia and Latvia. Here too every fisherman needs to have fishing permit that can be bought at fishing shops or online.

And some activities demand an additional license, for example, to fish for salmon or sea trout in Nemunas or Neris. National

parks and nature reserves too have special regulations. In general, a day permit costs EUR3; children under 16, people over 62,

and persons with special needs do not need such permits, and can fish for free.

One of the most popular pastimes for anglers is fishing for salmon and sea trout in

autumn. The Nemunas, among the biggest rivers in Lithuania, is one of the best

sources of these fish. The river starts in Belorussia, and has a total length of 900 km

of which 359 km are in Lithuania. The major tributaries are the Neris and the Merkys.

The Nemunas is a very wide river with a lot of variation in the current, slower in

deeper water and faster in shallow, and hosts many different species of fish. Pike and

perch can be caught all around the year and the river is also a good place for float

fisherman. The Neris, the second biggest river in Lithuania, also flows at different

speeds. Many salmon enter the Neris to spawn and this number is increasing each year,

so that fishing, which is only allowed at certain approved spots, can be very satisfying.

Nature protection organisations have focused on the salmon population which is not

large and the rules are strictly enforced, but fishermen can still look forward to

wonderful catches. A license for a day cost EUR3 which entitles a fisherman to keep

one fish, a salmon or a sea trout, the rest must be returned to the water. It is best to

gather information about the best places before fishing the Neris to improve the

chances of a good catch.

Grayling, a fighter, can best be caught in the Merkys River. The Merkys River starts in Belorussia and flows through the

Dzūkijos National Park, which is a special nature zone. It is possible to fish in the Merkys all year around. From early spring to

autumn in the first part of the river, where the current is slow, a section that requires a special license. The middle part of the river

is best from summer to late autumn. It is characterized by slow-flowing water with some rapids and runs that become more

frequent going downstream. The lowest part of the river has an even-flowing current. The river bed is sandy with deep holes

which host many large specimens and the best time to fish is from mid-autumn until the beginning of winter. The Merkys has

Lithuania’s biggest population of graylings, which makes it an interesting river for fly fishermen, but there are also chub, pike

and perch. Kayaking is a popular pursuit on the Merkys in summer, so fishermen will not have the river to themselves.

Lithuania also offers many medium and small rivers, where the main target species is chub, a challenging fish to catch as even

small ones are real fighters, and there are some large individuals too. At smaller rivers it is also possible to fly fish, which is not

easy, but one gets better with practice.

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The Curonian Spit offers anglers a variety of species. One of the best places to fish in Lithuania, a virtual paradise for

anglers, is the area of the Curonian Spit and the Klaipeda Channel. Many species, perch, zander, bream, roach, zaehrte (Vimba

bream), can be found in these waters, and several fishing techniques can be used. In spring the Klaipeda Channel is full of

Baltic herring, so a fisherman can be sure of catching something. This is also one of the best places to fish for zander in summer

and autumn by jigging or using hard baits. From the spit or the channel it is also possible to rent a boat with a guide and sail into

the Baltic Sea after flounder, cod, Baltic herring, and even halibut. The guide will know the best places to fish. There are

however special regulations that govern fishing in these areas: to fish in the Curonian Split, less than 500 m from the shore,

requires a special permit issued by the Ministry of Environment. However, fishing with float rods from the shore is exempted

from this requirement. When it is dark

fishing is only allowed from the shore or

from the ice. Angling in the Baltic Sea must

be approved by the border police and

catches may not exceed five kg per angler.

Another good place for zander is Lake

Sartai, a natural reserve close to the Latvian

border, where the fish can approach trophy

sizes. Here too it is possible to hire a

knowledgeable guide, who will know the

best places to fish.

Kestutis Zabotkus A chub, a catch coveted by anglers.

Polish anglers must sit an exam to obtain

a license. Angling in Poland is regulated as

it is in the three Baltic States with minor variations. A fisherman must have an angling license issued by the Polish Angling

Association, which can be obtained from their offices across the country, and a fishing permit from the water authority of the

area. Licenses are usually issued after passing an exam in fishing rules and regulations. Foreigners and non-members of the

association are exempt from taking the exam, but need to pay a special fee. Children under 14 do not need a license provided

they are accompanied by a license-holding adult with a permit. Poland has several lakes which are inhabited by more than 20

fish species. In the country’s north east is the Masurian Lake District, an area with more than 2,000 lakes that are connected

with rivers and channels forming a comprehensive system of water-ways. The district was a finalist in the Seven New Wonders

of Nature contest. The biggest pike to be caught in the district weighed more than 24 kg, and for fly fishing enthusiasts’ trout

and grayling are also found in the rivers. In the winter ice fishing is a popular activity targeting perch, roach, and bream. In

addition to natural lakes, Poland also has man-made lakes, such as Lake Zalew Zegrzyński close to Warsaw. Poland also has a

Baltic Sea coast where anglers can rent a boat and fish for cod and flounder. Another possibility is the Lubuskie District in

western Poland, an area for carp and catfish, where anglers can find good accommodations as well as large fish.

The Baltic States and Poland are perfect places for recreational fishing offering a variety of species, water bodies, terrains, and

opportunities. Every angler will be able to find something that appeal to him or her, and often will return home with an impressive

trophy.

COME TO MASS AT HOLY CROSS LITHUANIAN CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY AT 1030a

32

Lithuania in Spring

By Kerry Kubilius, Tripsavvy

Saulius Zakarka / EyeEm / Getty Images

The Baltic countries begin to

waken from their wintertime

slumber during the spring months

of March, April, and May.

Lithuania, as the southernmost of

the three countries, may see

slightly better temperatures than

Latvia or Estonia, particularly

when capitals are taken into

consideration. Lithuania’s capital

of Vilnius is well inland, escaping

the colder coastal climate seen by

cities such as Klaipeda and

Palanga, while Riga and Tallinn may still be in the grips of colder winds and chances of snow. Middle-to-late spring

is an excellent time to visit Lithuania, particularly if you’re up to bracing temperatures and don’t mind a little rain.

What to Pack for Lithuania in Spring. Each spring is different in Lithuania. Sometimes winter lingers

well into April, though other years may be blessed with signs of warmer weather in March. Keeping an eye on

general weather trends will help you plan what to pack, but it’s important to be versatile in your choices no matter

what the weather prediction estimates. Forecasts can change very quickly in this region of the world, making any

type of weather guarantee impossible. Furthermore, wind and rain can make even moderate temperatures unpleasant

while sightseeing, so keep your personal tolerance for variations in weather conditions in mind.

While winter-weather gear won’t be necessary, lighter versions of accessories such as gloves, hat, and scarf will be

good additions to practical, layerable clothing and a jacket that can withstand a rain shower. In late spring, boots may

be overkill, but it’s still smart to pack one pair of good walking shoes and another pair that will serve if the weather

suddenly turns sour.

If you decide to visit the coast or the Curonion Spit, keep in mind that temperatures there are typically significantly

cooler than in the capital or Kaunas, and that wind is also more of a factor than it is well inland.

Lithuania also tends to be a humid country no matter the season, meaning that breathable clothing is the best option.

Pack natural fibers or synthetics that are well-designed for airflow and temperature control.

Spring Events in Lithuania. The biggest event for Lithuania, which happens in Vilnius in March, is

Kaziukas Fair, which fills the old town with vendors from Lithuania and neighboring countries, entertainment, and

games. This event is ideal for picking up handmade souvenirs, watching traditional dances, listening to folk songs, or

trying local food favorites. Speak directly with artisans to learn about their craft. This fair happens the first weekend

in March in celebration of St. Casimir’s Day.

33

St. Patrick’s Day is also a large event in the Uzupis district of Vilnius. A green river and an out-of-doors party draw

interesting people to this neighborhood on the Saturday closest to April 17.

March may also see the celebration of Uzgavenės, Lithuania’s Shrovetide celebration or carnival. Entertainment and

games accompany this interesting holiday with a decidedly pagan twist.

Finally, Kino Pavasaris, the annual film festival, takes place at various theaters. This two-week celebration of

international cinema, films by Lithuanian directors, and a focus on the Baltics and Scandinavia movie culture means

that you’ll be able to check out films you might not have the opportunity to see otherwise.

In March or April, depending upon the calendar, Easter comes to Lithuania. Through the coloring of margučiai, or

Lithuanian Easter eggs, and the purchase of verbos, or Easter palms, Lithuanians make this holiday colorful and

lively. Lithuania, as a country with a majority of Catholic believers, ranks Easter highly on the holiday calendar.

However, regular Easter markets have yet to come to Vilnius as they have in other parts of Eastern Europe.

Two strange holidays occur in Vilnius in April. The first is April 1, which is Uzupis’ Independence Day. Of course,

this also being April fool’s Day means the holiday is all in good fun. Be sure to check out the Uzupis Constitution

while you’re in this part of Old Town Vilnius. The second holiday is Physics Day, when the Physics Department of

Vilnius University constructs a dinosaur to parade through the town in search of philology students.

Lithuania is a land of song, and in May, the Skamba Skamba Kankliai folk song festival fills the air with the sound

of haunting traditional melodies. A market selling handicrafts accompanies the entertainment.

www.tripsavvy.com/lithuania-in-spring-4039987

Things to do in Vilnius in March Although the weather may still be quite chilly and damp, the first signs of spring appear in Vilnius. The days get warmer, brighter and longer, so it can be a good time for your visit to the capital of Lithuania. This article is dedicated to informing you about the fairs, celebrations, commemorations and historical events that happened in Vilnius in March.

From 1st to 3rd of March: St Casimir’s fair in Vilnius

St Casimir’s Fair is the biggest and the oldest craftsmen festival in Vilnius traditionally held on the weekend nearest to the 4th of March, St. Casimir’s Day. That marks the day when Casimir (the Prince of Poland and Lithuania) died. St. Casimir is the only Lithuanian Saint, so Lithuanians celebrate the day wildly. The huge weekend event turns the streets of Vilnius into a feast of crafts and folk traditions. The township includes craft tents and market places with traditional Lithuanian wood carvings, knit

items, jewellery, pottery, metal crafting, and leather products. The visitors have an opportunity not only to buy items, but also try out their skills in various craftsmen‘s workshops. The traditional souvenir of the fair is a “palm” made of dried flowers called Verba which is consecrated on a Palm Sunday (last Sunday before Easter). It is a good opportunity to enjoy Lithuanian Folklore, to feel the history of ancient Vilnius and taste the culinary heritage of different nationalities that used to live in Vilnius.

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On 5th of March: Shrovetide (Uzgavenes)

46 days before Easter Lithuanians celebrate Shrovetide or Uzgavenes, the last and the funniest winter celebration. The aim of the fiesta is to get winter away and to welcome the upcoming spring. Shrovetide in Lithuania is not imaginable without masquerades: people dressed as witches, devils, gypsies, and beggars, wondering in the city’s streets or from house to house asking for sweets or money. As this is the last day before the fasting of Lent, it is essential to fill yourself with hearty food. Obligatorily meal is pancakes; other special food can be doughnuts, fat pork. One of the traditional attractions of the fiesta is the fight between two characters

Kanapinis (the Hemp Man symbolizing spring) and Lasininis (the Fatty associated with winter). After the battle, when the thinner wins, the huge witch-like character, symbolizing winter, is burned accompanied by shouting “Winter winter go away”. If you want to feel this crazy spirit of the merriest festival in Lithuania, you have to visit Rumsiskes, Lithuanian folk museum that organizes it for more than 30 years. The newspaper “The Guardian” rated it among “10 of Europe’s best alternative carnivals”. A huge fiesta with folk music bands from all Lithuania, pancake baking and eating competition, masquerades parade, ride in a horse-drawn sleigh will take place on Saturday, 2nd of March. The real celebration is on Tuesday, the 5th of March, but as it is a working day, the festival in Rumsiskes will take place on Saturday before Shrovetide.

Photo: Rimgaudas Žaltauskas, http://www.llbm.lt/en/mardi-gras-in-the-open-air-museum-of-lithuania-march-2nd/

When and where is Kaziukas Fair?

Kaziukas Fair takes place annually on the weekend closest to Saint Casimir‘s Day (4 March). That‘s 6-8 March, 2020.

Kaziukas Fair takes place in the heart of Vilnius.

Hundreds of stands and stalls featuring our finest crafts and folk art fill Gediminas Avenue, Šventaragio, T. Vrublevskio, B. Radvilaitės, Maironio, Vokiečių and Pilies Streets.

Vilnius Kaziukas Fair cannot be imagined without:

Traditional Easter palms – the most popular souvenir of the fair

An array of food and traditional culinary treats Eatable fair souvenirs

Trade of handmade goods and art creations

Theatrical processions

Music!

History of Kaziukas Fair. After the canonization of the Grand Duke Casimir (Lith. Kaziukas) in the first part of the 17th century, the construction of St. Casimir’s Jesuit Church began in Vilnius. It was the first Baroque sanctuary in the city. On the day of the Saint’s death, 4th March, St. Casimir’s Day started to be mentioned. To mark this occasion, a huge fair of craftspeople and farmers was organized every year after St. Casimir Day mass. As a result of different historical events, several editions of the fair were forced to relocate to various parts of the city: The Cathedral Square, Lukiškės, even Kalvarijų market. In the times of Independence, the fair returned to Vilnius city center, stretching to the four corners of the city. In its present form, the fair extends many kilometers along the streets of the Old Town, squares and yards.

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TOP 3 REASONS TO VISIT KAZIUKAS FAIR: 1. You can find EVERYTHING (in the truest sense of the word) in one place. There is such a wide variety of traders and artisans who take part in the fair, so you’ll be sure to find products satisfying your taste: from unique trinkets real art creations, traditional handicrafts from various regions of Lithuania and numerous examples of modern design. 2. You can get acquainted with the Vilnius region and Lithuanian traditions. Visit Kaziukas Fair – get acquainted with Vilnius and Lithuania. There is no other event that has maintained a tradition for more than 400 years in our swiftly changing country. 3. You can taste various traditional Lithuanian dishes in one place. Tasting dishes at Vilnius’ Kaziukas Fair is the perfect opportunity to introduce your palate to a wide variety of Lithuanian breads, meats, dairy products, honey, herbs and sweets, and of course, Lithuanian homemade beer. Come discover new flavors!

TOP 4 MUST-TASTE DISHES AT KAZIUKAS FAIR: 1. Baranka What’s a fair without a warm Kaziukas baranka (ring-shaped roll)? Their necklaces are an obligatory attribute according to which fair guests may be recognized from afar. After all, everybody feels obliged to bring at least one ring-shaped roll to their relatives who could not come to the fair. It is a unique product found only once a year, only at Kaziukas Fair. 2. Kaziukas gingerbread Gingerbread has been one of the most sought-after souvenirs among the fair-goers since the inception of the event. It’s available in a variety of sizes and shapes and the most popular ones come in the shape of a heart or even Vilnius Gediminas Tower, decorated with icing sugar. Our tip: get some Kaziukas gingerbread not only to try, but also as a great souvenir to bring home to you friends and family! 3. Šimtalapis, the Tatar hundred-leaf cake When was the last time you tasted a hundred-leaf Tatar cake? Probably during Kaziukas Fair? Tatars have lived in Lithuania for hundreds of years and continue to practice many of their culinary traditions; the most popular of which is a sweet pastry requiring special accuracy called Šimtalapis.

TOP 5 MUST-HAVE SOUVENIRS FROM KAZIUKAS FAIR: 1. Vilnius region Easter palm. Of course, the most sought-after souvenir is the Vilnius region Easter palm. The Easter palm is now iconic to Kaziukas Fair, and serves as a reminder of the onset of spring in Lithuania. 2. Wooden souvenirs. The classics of Kaziukas Fair are wooden spoons, paddles or other cutlery made of wood. With a huge selection of these products to choose from, you’re certain to find something interesting that catches your eye. 3. Ceramic products. Purchase something from a seemingly endless selection of ceramics: artistic bowls, pitchers, earrings or even a whistle to help call spring with. Again, nowhere else will you find so many variants, and, if you miss something beautiful, you’ll have to wait until next year’s fair to find something similar. 4. Wickerwork. Kaziukas Fair is famous for baskets and other wickerwork. You can find baskets of various sizes, forms, and styles, which later on can be used to pack other products and souvenirs from the fair! 5. Helping others. The best souvenir is helping those who really need it. Kaziukas Fair is also full of kindness, not just products and goods. Here, you’ll also have an opportunity to support, donate or contribute in any other way to the activities of campaigns and organizations dedicated to serving important initiatives.

www.kaziukomuge.lt

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St. Casimir Prince of Lithuanian and Poland, patron Saint of

the Knights of Lithuania, born in the royal palace at Cracow, 3 October, 1458; died at the court of Grodno, 4 March, 1484. He was

the grandson of Wladislaus II Jagiello, King of Poland, who introduced Christianity into Lithuania, and the second son of King Casimir IV and Queen Elizabeth, an Austrian princess, the daughter

of Albert II, Emperor of Germany and King of Bohemia and Hungary.

Casimir's uncle, Wladislaus III, King of Poland and Hungary, perished at Varna in 1444, defending Christianity against the Turks.

Casimir's elder brother, Wladislaus, became King of Bohemia in 1471, and King of Hungary in 1490. Of his four younger brothers,

John I, Albert, Alexander, and Sigismund in turn occupied the Polish throne, while Frederick, the youngest, became Archbishop of Gnesen, Bishop of Cracow, and finally cardinal, in 1493. The early

training of the young princes was entrusted to Father Dlugosz, the Polish historian, a canon at Cracow, and later Archbishop of Lwów (Lemberg), and to Filippo Buonaccorsi, called Callimachus. Father

Dlugosz was a deeply religious man, a loyal patriot, and like Callimachus, well versed in statecraft. Casimir was placed in the care of this scholar at the age nine, and even then, he was

remarkable for his ardent piety. When Casimir was thirteen he was offered the throne of Hungary by a Hungarian faction who were discontented under King Matthias Corvinus.

Eager to defend the Cross against the Turks, he accepted the call and went to Hungary to receive the crown. He was unsuccessful, however, and returned a fugitive to Poland. The young prince

again became a pupil of Father Dlugosz, under whom he remained until 1475. He was later associated with his father who initiated him so well into public affairs that after his elder brother,

Wladislaus, ascended to the Bohemian throne, Casimir became heir-apparent to the throne of Poland. When in 1479 the king went to Lithuania to spend five years arranging affairs there, Casimir

was placed in charge of Poland, and from 1481 to 1483 administered the State with great prudence and justice.

About this time his father tried to arrange for him a marriage

with the daughter of Frederick III, Emperor of Germany, but Casimir preferred to remain single. Shortly afterwards he fell victim to a severe attack of lung trouble, which, weak as he was

from fasting and mortifications, he could not withstand. While on a journey to Lithuania, he died at the court of Grodno, 4 March

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8th of March: International Women’s Day International Women’s Day is not an official holiday in Lithuania, but it is still widely celebrated. In many countries, this day has a slightly political flavour and is a time to reflect on progress made in emancipation and equality of women. This day emerged at the turn of twentieth century in United States to mark the importance of women‘s rights in labour, property, ownership, education and voting. Lithuania was surprisingly fast to adopt political rights to women. The first commemoration of International Women’s day took place in 1914 and in 1919 the women gained the right to vote surpassing long-established Western democracies like USA (1920), France (1944), Switzerland (1971) and others.

During the Soviet times, women‘s role in Lithuania gained a bit of a different nature, Lithuanian women had to adopt to a “Socialist Gender Equality” principles. Women had to work a full day and serve socialist state’s needs. Heroism of working women was emphasized all over the country. Women had jobs in collective farms, factories, and in more white-collar spheres such as medicine and education, that were previously dominated by men. In Soviet times, the political motives of the Women’s day moved to the background and it became the celebration like a cross between Mother’s Day and St. Valentine’s Day. This trend still exists today. Every 8th of March in Lithuania is a day when men express their love and appreciation to women by giving flowers, chocolates, postcards and other pleasant gifts.

11th March: Day of Restoration of Independence of Lithuania In 1940 Lithuania lost its freedom and became a part of the Soviet Empire. In the middle of the Second World War, Soviet invasion was replaced by Nazis, but as Nazis retreated, Soviets took over Lithuania once more in 1944. Lithuania was a part of USSR for more than 45 years. During all these years Lithuanians survived painful nationalization, industrialization and collectivization processes. Despite the aggressive Soviet politics, Lithuanians never ceased fighting for freedom. Both violent and silent, secret resistance existed throughout the years of occupation. In late 1980s as Perestroika {restructuring} the period of economic reforms, publicity and democratization started in Russia,

Lithuanian intellectuals took advantage of the new openness and begin seeking independence. In 1988 the political organization, called Sajudis {reformation} was formed that led the struggle for Lithuania’s freedom. During the forthcoming years before the independence, Sajudis organised political demonstrations, protests, Lithuanian press distribution, etc. In February 1990, Sajudis won a huge majority of the seats in the Supreme Council. Sajudis candidates emphasized that their fundamental purpose was to re-establish the independent Lithuania’s state. Everybody felt that the freedom is just few steps away, but few would have said it would happen so soon. After less than one month, in 1990, 11th of March, the newly elected parliament, signed an act of restoration of Lithuanian independence. 124 members of the Supreme Council were in favour, 6 absented, but nobody voted against.

16th of March: St. Patrick’s Day St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th each year. It is the feast day of Ireland’s patron Saint Patrick. The day is celebrated in Ireland and all over the world by people of Irish heritage. St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, known for converting the Irish to Christianity. He died on March 17 in 461, after spending many years helping people and sharing his beliefs all over Ireland. One of the important symbols of the day is the

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shamrock, or three-leaf cover. Patrick used the shamrock to help people understand God. The three leaves of the shamrock symbolize the Holy Trinity. The green is the color of St. Patrick’s Day, but it didn’t use to be that way. Actually, blue used to be St. Patrick’s color. In 1798 during the Irish Rebellion people used green to symbolize their love of country, and made the green clover a national symbol. Since then, St Patrick’s Day has been all about the green. The tradition to dye rivers in green was accidentally born in Chicago. The plumbers were searching for holes in the pipes and for this purpose used water dyed in green color. Each year the city of Chicago dyes the Chicago River green, the fountain on the lawn of the White House gets dyed green too. Even though the Irish community of Lithuania is relatively small, Vilnius commemorates St Patrick’s Day wildly

since 2012. The Ambassador of Republic of Ireland Mr David Noonan invites citizens of Vilnius and city guests to gather on the banks of river Vilnelė to see it turning green at Užupis Republic. The turn happens at 15.15-15.40 and is accompanied by special concerts, Irish dances and lots of fun. So if you visit Vilnius on that day, don’t miss the chance to be the part of this cheerful celebration and don’t forget to bring something green with you.

20th of March: The Earth day On 20th of March, Lithuanians will mark an Earth day. This particular day was chosen as the spring equinox happens at that time. On 20th of March, 2019 at 12:29 in EET time, the sun will be shining directly on the Earth’s equator, bringing almost the same amount of daylight to the northern, and darkness to the southern hemispheres. That means that length of the day will be the same as the night and afterwards the days will slowly start getting longer. It is believed that, in ancient times, before the transition to Julian, and after Gregorian calendar, Lithuanians New Year was celebrated around the time of vernal equinox. Symbolically it makes sense, as it is about a new beginning: the wild animals wake up from winter sleep, the birds fly back from the south, the agricultural season starts. Nowadays, when people are less dependent on nature, this day has a different perspective. It‘s all about growing awareness of importance to protect the earth, encourage people to “think globally, act

locally”: recycle, save energy, use green products, public transportation or bicycles rather than cars. In Vilnius, the events dedicated to this day, usually take place between Lithuanian National History museum and Cathedral Square. Next to the Mindaugas’ bridge, the bonfires will be lighted accompanied by traditional Lithuanian folk music The Erath flag will be raised in front of Lithuanian parliament.

25th of March: The Stork Day One more day that symbolizes the beginning of spring is the 25th of March- the storks’ day. White stork is the national bird in Lithuania; therefore Lithuanians have a special day to honor it.

Usually around this day the storks return home from the south. As there were times when Lithuanians were celebrating the New Year around this day, so it was believed that the first time you see the stork, can determine the whole year. If the stork is flying, the year will be successful, unmarried girls will find husbands, students will pass exams, but if the stork is on the ground, the year will be poor and infertile, girls will stay in the parents’ house, the student’s will fail their exams. Also, Lithuanian children still believe that it is the stork that brings babies to a family. Lithuania is not the only country in Europe where the stork is a national bird, but Lithuanians has the highest stork density of all the European nations. The nests are visible all over the country, sprouting out of trees and on wagon wheels on top of poles.

www.vilniusfreetour.lt/things-to-do-in-vilnius-in-march/

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FIGHTERS FOR FREEDOM

Lithuanian Partisans Versus the U.S.S.R.

by Juozas Daumantas

This is a factual, first-hand account of the activities of the armed

resistance movement in Lithuania during the first three years of

Russian occupation (1944-47) and of the desperate conditions

which brought it about.

The author, a leading figure in the movement, vividly describes

how he and countless other young Lithuanian men and women

were forced by relentless Soviet persecutions to abandon their

everyday activities and take up arms against their nation’s

oppressors.

Living as virtual outlaws, hiding in forests, knowing that at any

moment they might be hunted down and killed like so many

wild animals, these young freedom fighters were nonetheless

determined to strike back with every resource at their command.

We see them risking their lives to protect Lithuanian farmers

against Red Army marauders, publishing underground

newspapers to combat the vast Communist propaganda

machine, even pitting their meager forces against the dreaded

NKVD and MGB.

JUOZAS DAUMANTAS

Translated from the Lithuanian by E. J. Harrison and Manyland Books

SECOND EDITION FIGHTERS FOR FREEDOM

Copyright © 1975 by Nijole Brazenas-Paronetto

Published by the Lithuanian Canadian Committee for Human Rights,

1988 1011 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, M6H 1A8

Library of Congress Catalog Card No.: 74-33547 ISBN 0-87141-049-4

http://www.partizanai.org/failai/html/fighters-for-freedom.htm

CHAPTER III

WHAT’S YOURS IS MINE

After the front had become temporarily stabilized beyond the city of Marijampolė the advance Red Army units which

had been carrying out the “liberation reforms” in our district were replaced by several units of the NKVD. Apparently these

units "had also “left their field kitchens behind,” for the women soon began to grumble about the way the enkavedisti were

making themselves at home in theirs. But this was only a diversion. The real business of the NKVD was of a much more

serious nature. To begin with, they conducted systematic purges of the local population. Not a day went by that we didn’t

hear about this or that person being arrested. They also made sure that the people discharged whatever obligations the

authorities had imposed on them —the most important of these being trench digging and airfield construction work.

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Although the Russians had been advancing steadily throughout the summer, they could not rid themselves of the fear

that the Germans might yet rally and destroy them with a sneak attack. In fact, they became so obsessed by the possibility

that they began constructing networks of trenches as far back as sixty-five miles behind the front. This operation was

conducted on a massive scale all autumn long by means of forced labor. Every Lithuanian man and woman capable of

wielding a shovel had been drafted for the purpose. Each one was expected to dig a stipulated number of trenches per day,

and each one had to keep working until this daily quota was fully completed. Since the Russians did not supply these workers

with food, they were also obliged to make frequent trips to their homes for securing provisions. This was particularly hard

on those who had been recruited from distant communities. (Some of them from as far as fifteen miles away.) They had to

spend most of their free time traveling, and were consequently deprived of much-needed rest.

Another type of forced labor imposed on our people was the clearing of land for airfields. About a hundred and fifty

of them were constructed in Lithuania during the autumn of 1944, and the necessary road building and repair work was

carried out concurrently. The entire burden of this operation had been placed on the shoulders of the rural population. The

results were disastrous, especially where next year’s crop was concerned. The farmers simply didn’t have time enough to

sow their winter wheat—and many of them couldn’t even get around to digging their potatoes, which were left to freeze in

the fields. The weather didn’t help anybody, either: it rained nearly every day.

But what plagued the farmers and the villagers more than anything else was the incessant thievery on the part of the

Russians. Rank-and-file soldiers, Red Army officers, and the government officials of every designation were robbing the

people blind—and had been doing so ever since the first day of “liberation.” Perhaps the most notorious of the “official”

bandits were the civilians who had attached themselves to Red Army units as territorial administrators. These gentlemen

would simply climb into their automobiles, drive up to some farm or other, and requisition anything they wanted. And when

the farmers asked them to issue receipts for the “requisitioned” items, so that they might be counted towards their quotas of

mandatory contributions, the officials would bluntly refuse. Most frequently victimized by such “requisitioning” parties

were farms which lay close to the main roads and could easily be reached by car.

Much less sophisticated but a great deal more devastating were the wholesale robberies being committed by Red Army

soldiers. They would descend on a farm in hordes and grab whatever they could lay their hands on. Even the farmer’s wife’s

undergarments would not be spared, since Red Army women usually participated in the raids and took great delight in such

feminine finery. Needless to say, an individual subjected to one or two of these predatory visits was bound to be left totally

destitute. Worse yet, he had absolutely no hope of obtaining redress. Appealing to Soviet officials didn’t do any good

because they invariably dismissed such complaints as mere fabrications. Besides, everyone already knew that the Soviet

regime tacitly condoned pillaging by its rank-and-file soldiers—the idea being to make them all the more eager to push the

Russian offensive further and further westward in the hope of securing still greater spoils.

About the only thing the villagers and farmers could do under these circumstances was to try fending off the Red Army

men on their own. Those fortunate enough to be living in areas where partisan units were operating had a relatively easy

time of it. Not only did the partisans do their best to supply such individuals with weapons to defend themselves —they also

went after the robbers personally, wiping out whole gangs of them and restoring the stolen items to their rightful owners.

Granted, the risks involved in seeking or receiving help from the partisans were considerable. The Russians had declared

them to be outlaws or “bandits,” and inflicted severe punishment on anyone who was even remotely suspected of having

dealings with them. Nevertheless, most farmers and villagers were more than willing to chance it, and jumped at the prospect

of obtaining partisan aid.

As for the individuals who found themselves outside the sphere of partisan influence, they had to handle the situation

in the best way they could. And if some of the safeguards which they adopted were not altogether practical, at least they

showed a great deal of ingenuity. The Pakaunė farmers, for instance, came up with the idea of installing loud gongs on their

premises. Whenever one of these farmers happened to spot Red Army soldiers anywhere in the vicinity, he would sound

the alarm by repeatedly striking his gong. The others would immediately follow suit. And the noise generated by dozens of

gongs clanging in unison was so great that it frightened the intruders away. Or at least it did the first couple of times.

Unfortunately, they were quick to see through the ruse, after which no amount of gong ringing could frighten them. This is

not to imply that the gongs were rendered totally ineffective, though. They still served as excellent devices for warning the

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community. And if enough people could be alerted of an impending Red Army raid, they had a good chance of preventing

it by taking prompt and concerted action.

Something of the sort occurred in the village of Vaintrakai. At midnight, the entire village was aroused by the incessant

clanging of a gong which seemed to be coming from the direction of villager G.’s house. The gongs of his neighbors

promptly picked up the alarm. However, it was obvious that they weren’t doing any good because the next sound the

villagers heard was a desperate cry for help. At this point, eight husky youths each grabbed a club and ran to assist G. as

fast as their feet could carry them. Along the way, they very nearly collided with G.’s daughter, who was running

breathlessly in the opposite direction. According to what she told them, the place had been invaded by a trio of Russian

soldiers. All three were armed: one with an automatic pistol. Apparently the girl had escaped at the very last minute, because

she said that the robbers were already starting to demolish the living room when she fled.

The villagers found G. in his door-yard, crouched down behind some bushes near the porch. Four of them joined him,

while the remaining four crawled up to the windows and took up positions beneath the sills. The idea was to ambush the

robbers as they were emerging with the “loot.” Any other alternative—such as trying to capture them inside the house would

have been far too dangerous because the villagers carried no firearms. The looting continued uninterrupted for about two

hours. Judging from the awful commotion they made, the robbers were going at it with a vengeance. Every few minutes or

so, the night air would be rent by the sound of some piece of furniture being smashed to pieces. This would invariably be

followed by a long string of obscenities in Russian—after which the whole sequence would start all over again.

Finally, one of the robbers discovered that he simply couldn’t stuff another thing into his sack. So he said good-bye to

his comrades (who were still looting away) and headed for the door. But he had no sooner stepped over the threshold, when

G. throttled him and sent him sprawling to the ground. The others pounced on him almost immediately afterwards, looking

for hidden weapons. They did manage to locate a hand grenade. However, in the process of extricating it, G. lost his

stranglehold on the fellow’s throat—whereupon the latter let loose such a yelp that his cronies dropped everything and

rushed outside to see what in blazes was happening. But the moment they spotted the rescue party, they stopped short and

doubled back.

For a while they remained barricaded inside the house doing absolutely nothing. Then one of them hurled a hand

grenade out of the window. Just as he did so, the other one

flung open the door and shoved his sacksful of stolen goods onto the porch. He was undoubtedly planning to make away

with it while the attention of the villagers was being diverted by the explosion. Only he didn’t get very far. He came charging

through the door so fast that he ran right into the sack and fell flat on his face on the ground. Taking no chances, villager J.

made sure that he stayed there by delivering a smart blow to the back of his neck.

At this point, the robber who was still at large realized that things were getting serious and started blasting away. He

did manage to wing one member of the rescue party, but had absolutely no luck with the other seven. These simply waited

it out until he had exhausted his ammunition, after which they marched into the house and subdued him with no trouble at

all.

There remained only the matter of notifying the district authorities. Since this was the duty of the village secretary, he

was immediately summoned and dispatched to Panemunė with orders to get there as fast as his bicycle could carry him. As

for the robbers, each of them was given a sound thrashing, and then all three of them were thrust into G.’s cellar until such

time as the authorities should arrive.

To say that the Panemunė authorities were pleased with the village secretary’s report would have been an

understatement. They were positively delighted. At last, the villagers had done them proud by behaving like true public-

spirited Soviet citizens. Eager to get his hands on what he believed to be a trio of Lithuanian partisans, District Executive

Committee Chairman Savickis ordered a truck to be brought around at once. Then he and the local NKGB chief with eight

of his men climbed aboard and drove full speed ahead to the scene of the crime.

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When they reached G.’s house, the NKGB chief greeted the villagers assembled there with a laudatory oration. He

heaped lavish praises on G. and on the brave citizens who had single-handedly apprehended the “bandits,” and he urged

everyone else to follow the fine example they had set. He continued speaking along these lines for some time, after which

he and Committee Chairman Savickis provided themselves with heavy sticks and ordered G. to lead the way to the cellar.

“Now, then, my dear fellows. Out you come!” drawled the NKGB chief sarcastically as soon as G. had thrown open

the cellar door.

Ever so slowly, the head of one of the bandits began to materialize inside the dimly-lit aperture. This was an opportunity

which District Executive Committee Chairman Savickis simply couldn’t resist. He raised his stick and wham! brought it

down full force right on the fellow’s noggin. The latter let out a blood-curdling yell and scrambled back into the darkness

for safety.

Suddenly, the NKGB chief turned as white as a ghost.

“Stop it, God damm you!” he shouted. “That is Lieutenant Shchipin you’re beating! I’d recognize his voice anywhere!”

A tense silence followed. The NKGB chief stared at the crowd of assembled villagers, then at the cellar door, then at

the villagers again. Finally, he decided to take the bull by the horns and addressed himself to the aforesaid Lieutenant

Shchipin:

“You can come out now, Comrade Lieutenant. It’s all right. Nobody will hit you, I guarantee it. Please, Comrade

Lieutenant —and you other men, too —please come out of the cellar and show yourselves.”

One after another, the objects of the chief’s entreaties began to emerge. Sure enough, there was Lieutenant Shchipin

with fresh blood all over his forehead. And there were his companions: two privates from an artillery unit stationed in

Panemunė It was a pretty mess, indeed. Neither the NKGB chief nor any of his subordinates had the faintest idea of what

to say or do. They just kept staring at the three men and cursing them under their breath.

As for District Committee Chairman Savickis, he was beside himself. How could he have been so thoughtless? Why,

he had very nearly succeeded in fracturing the erstwhile lieutenant’s skull! He stood a little apart from the others with his

eyes focused intently on the ground and contemplated the possibility of finding a hole to crawl into. He looked so ridiculous

that it was all the villagers could do to keep from laughing out loud. Nor was this their only source of amusement. They

also rejoiced at the fact that they had finally been able to unearth the truth —and had even managed to rub the noses of the

Panemune officials in it. Although none of them uttered a word, the smug expressions on their faces were enough to fill

volumes.

“Well, well, gentlemen!” They seemed to be saying. “So

You didn’t believe us when we told you that Red Army soldiers were robbing us blind. You called us liars and slanderers

of the glorious Soviet Republic. Liars, indeed! Take a good look and just try calling us liars now!

Curiously enough, Lieutenant Shchipin was the only one of the Russians who did not seem to be in the least

embarrassed. While everybody else was standing around red-faced, he was busy working himself into a rage at the very

idea of anyone’s daring to assault an officer of the Red Army. He stomped up and down, heaping torrents of curses on the

head of the scurrilous mongrel and threatening the villagers with instant perdition unless they disclosed his identity at once.

(All this to the great consternation of Committee Chairman Savickis, who was undoubtedly wishing himself elsewhere!)

Heaven only knows how this little farce might have ended if the NKGB chief hadn’t decided to intervene. Displaying

great presence of mind, he promptly herded everybody into the truck and ordered the driver to take off for Panemunė before

things could get any further out of hand.

43

Later on, villager G. wanted to demand compensation for the damage done to his house. But his neighbors talked him

out of it.

‘‘Leave well enough alone,” they urged. ‘‘And thank the Lord that the whole thing is over. You'd never get justice

from that lot —not unless birds of a feather suddenly start pecking each other’s eyes out!”

CHAPTER IV

TO ARMS: FOR OR AGAINST SLAVERY?

Not only did the Russians force our people to do their heavy labor, but they also expected us to fight their wars.

Thousands of Lithuanian young men were eventually drafted into the Red Army, although the feat was not accomplished

until a great deal of blood had been shed. At first, the Russian mobilization order was ignored altogether. After all, it was

as illegal as a similar order which had been issued during the German occupation: no occupying power had the right to

recruit men for its armed forces on foreign soil. But unlike the Germans, who eventually realized the error of their ways and

abandoned the scheme, the Russians simply redoubled their efforts and chose to ignore the fact that they were trampling

over our national rights.

On the day set aside for reporting to recruiting stations, armed NKVD men were sent out to scour the countryside for

likely “recruits.” (They had already learned from the first occupation that no Lithuanian in his right mind would enlist into

the Red Army unless a bayonet was pointed at his back.) Rounding up the first batch of conscripts proved to be relatively

easy because the poor fellows were taken completely unaware. But when these same “recruits” were being herded to

induction posts, every able-bodied male who saw them promptly took off for the woods. And when the enkavedisti saw

them, they started shooting. In this manner alone, Lithuania lost several thousand of its men.

Even more men of draft age were killed because they sought to avoid recruitment by concealing themselves in stables

or barns. These were extremely hazardous hiding places. The enkavedisti always searched them thoroughly and fired their

machine guns point blank into the piles of straw and hay which were stored there. Only those individuals who were able to

keep themselves from crying out or moaning after they had been wounded ever lived long enough to tell their tales. As for

the rest, they were quickly flushed out and finished off on the spot.

One such search of the barns and stables in a small village not far from mine resulted in the deaths of eighteen young

field hands.

*

Under these precarious circumstances, I began to wonder whether my student draft exemption card would do me any

good if I remained on the farm. I therefore decided to return to Kaunas somewhat sooner than I had intended. I might starve

there, but at least I wouldn’t be drafted. Little did I know that I would very nearly be “shanghaied” along the way! Just

outside Kaunas, a Russian patrol intercepted me and demanded to see my papers at once. The Mongolian sentry who

examined them decided that they were not in order. So, with an automatic pistol pressed against my spine, he pushed me

towards a kiosk where his superior officer was stationed. The officer also found my documents wanting. Why was there no

seal on the card which exempted me from military service? Why had I, a student, left Kaunas University in the first place?

Did my family really need me so badly to help out on the farm? I did my very best to answer the officer’s questions, but he

must have found my answers wanting, too, because it wasn’t long before he ordered the sentry to detain me.

The Mongolian then took me to a spot beside a ditch where some fifteen other young men were already assembled. As

I stood there, wondering what to do next, another student—a friend of mine—came riding up on his bicycle. True to form,

he was stopped and ordered to dismount. This my friend did immediately. However, instead of producing his papers, he

made motions to draw the Mongolian aside. At first the latter didn’t know what to make of such strange behavior and

instinctively reached for his automatic. I held my breath. Was the Mongolian really going to use it? But, no. All of a sudden

44

a broad grin flashed across his face, and he looked down with delight at his hands —into which my friend had just pressed

a brown paper-wrapped parcel.

“All right! Papers in order!” he barked, and the next thing I knew, my friend was pedaling away, laughing. He was still

laughing when he pedaled past our sad little group.

“What in the world are you fellows doing standing beside that ditch?” he shouted. “Hasn’t anyone told you that

Russians are simply mad about bacon? Or are you saving all of yours so you can have something to munch on in the Army?”

We acknowledged his jest with rueful smiles, wishing that we had been half as resourceful as he was.

After twenty of us “draft dodgers” had been rounded up, we were separated into groups of five and marched off to a

recruiting station on Gediminas Street. Here, they told us to wait until we were summoned for a hearing before some kind

of special interrogation. It was quite a while before my turn came around. During the interim, two more young men of draft

age were dragged in and given the same instructions. According to what they told the clerk on duty, I gathered that they

hailed from Pakuonis. There was nothing out of the ordinary about this. Pakuonis was just another town. But it did strike

me as strange that one of the sentries should come running over to talk to the clerk only moments after the name had been

mentioned. What possible interest could a Russian have in Pakuonis? My curiosity was aroused, and I edged a little closer

to the desk so that I might hear what the sentry was saying. I managed to catch the general drift of it, although I missed a

few words here and there because he was doing his best not to speak above a whisper. Apparently there had been some sort

of violence in Pakuonis on the previous day. Certain individuals —“bandits,” the sentry called them —had laid seige to a

building in which newly-captured Lithuanian “recruits” were being held, and had managed to set every single one of them

free. While they were at it, they had also killed every one of the sentries —which probably explained why this particular

sentry had been so startled when he heard that the two newcomers were from Pakuonis, and why he kept casting fearful

glances in their direction all the time that he spoke. I made a mental note to find out more about the incident if and when I

was released from this place.

At long last, somebody called out my name and directed me to the special interrogator’s office. For reasons which

have yet to be explained, the interrogator refused to have any dealings with me until he had first made certain that I was

standing exactly four paces away from his desk. Then he took down my name and address, and proceeded straight to the

heart of the matter. To wit, he wanted to know why I — a healthy and apparently intelligent Soviet citizen — hadn’t enlisted

in the Red Army long ago. Where was my sense of obligation? Where was my loyalty? Didn’t I realize what a glorious

opportunity was being extended to me? Wasn’t I anxious to get my hands on that monster, Hitler, and to rid the world of

him once and for all?

I saw right away that it would take quite a bit to impress this character —so I decided to give him back a dose of his

own medicine. Of course, I wanted to see Hitler destroyed, I said. Of course, I was completely loyal and devoted to the

glorious Soviet Union. And, yes, I dearly longed to take advantage of the wonderful opportunity being offered to me. But

what could I do when the Council of Commissars had already decreed that my type of individual was better able to serve

the State by obtaining an education than by fighting or laboring with his hands? Being a loyal and devoted citizen who knew

where his obligations lay, I couldn’t even dream of placing my personal preferences above the mandates of the Council. To

do so would have been selfish and unpatriotic—if not downright treasonable.

Perhaps the special interrogator was impressed with my oratory; perhaps he wasn’t. He merely pointed out that student

draft exemptions were not his department and turned me over to the Commissariat for Academic Military Affairs. This

particular body quickly handed down a ruling in my favor—very likely because the only Commissar who happened to be

on hand at the time was the same one who had failed to affix the required seals to my student draft exemption card in the

first place.

♦

45

It was a relief to be outdoors again, and to be able to roam from place to place without some meddlesome guard tagging

behind me. After taking a leisurely stroll through the streets, I walked over to the university where I was supposed to meet

my brother Juozas. I found him waiting impatiently for me and wondering why I should be so late in arriving. (He had set

out for Kaunas a few days before I did, and hadn’t encountered the least bit of trouble along the way.)

The first thing on our agenda was to look around for a suitable place to live, since it was obvious that we would have

to remain in Kaunas from now on. We inspected the various residences which the university administration had made

available to its students and finally hit upon a boarding house which seemed to be a trifle less dilapidated than the rest.

Having made our decision, we filled out an application and waited. Because our friends Julius and Jurgis were supposed to

come in with us, we had requested a whole apartment rather than just a single room. We sincerely hoped we could get it.

There were a number of advantages to having a place all to ourselves, not the least of which was the comfort of knowing

that our room-mates weren’t spying for the NKVD.

We obtained the apartment without any difficulty whatsoever. The difficult part came later — when we were faced

with the prospect of having to make it fit for humans to live in. The place had been occupied first by Germans and then by

Russian soldiers — and to say that it was an absolute mess was to give it a compliment which it didn't deserve. Both groups

of previous tenants had left so many revolting mementos of their sojourn behind them that the cumulative effect was enough

to make us cringe every time we stepped through the door. (In actual fact, we were fortunate to have a door at all — never

mind that the lock and the doorknob were missing! — Because the soldiers had removed everything else, right down to the

windowpanes.)

Only after weeks of back-breaking labor were we able to restore this hovel to some semblance of decency. Eventually,

we even fashioned a make-shift lock for the door. We never could do very much about the windows, though, except to board

them up.

*

When we weren’t slaving away in this manner, we could be found at the university where we spent long hours trying

to get back into the tempo of academic routine. Yet as busy as I was during these first few weeks, I still found enough time

to make inquiries about the Pakuonis incident, and I finally obtained a full account of it from some of my better-informed

colleagues. According to what they told me, two Lithuanian partisans — Tigras and Šarūnas — had planned and carried out

the operation all by themselves. The story went something like this. On “recruiting” day last, the enkavedisti had managed

to bag several dozen young “volunteers,” and had locked them up under heavy guard inside the Bajoraitis Mansion. But

when Tigras and Šarūnas got wind of the fact, they decided that they didn’t much like the idea of these young men being

held captive. So they filled a couple of sacks with hand-grenades and set out to remedy the situation. As soon as it had

grown dark enough for them to move about undetected, the two men crept into the yard of the Bajoraitis Mansion and hurled

their entire stock of grenades right through the windows of the guard house. So deadly accurate was their aim that it took

them less than a minute to blow every single sentry to bits. And once this had been accomplished, it was a simple enough

matter to break down the doors of the mansion itself and to release the prisoners.

These same colleagues went on to inform me that the Pakuonis incident was by no means unique. Quite the contrary.

It was just one example of what was beginning to take place everywhere. A few days earlier, for instance, something along

these lines had occurred on the outskirts of Prienai. Here, a band of partisans under the leadership of group commander

Dešinys had ambushed a whole convoy filled with “recruits.” Not only did they succeed in setting the lot of them free, but

they also wiped out the entire NKVD escort while they were at it. As for the vehicles (American-made Studebakers, every

one of them) they were promptly doused with gasoline and ignited so that they could never again be used to carry Lithuanian

young men into slavery.

There were many other ways in which the Lithuanian partisans were making their presence felt. For one thing, they

had redoubled their efforts to protect Lithuanian farmers against Red Army marauders. For another, they had recently

initiated an all-out campaign against collaborators. Not a day went by that at least one or two Lithuanians who had sold

themselves to the Soviet cause didn’t drop out of sight under mysterious circumstances. And with each new disappearance,

46

the people who heard about it would nod and exchange knowing looks. So-and-so has gone fishing, they whispered. Such-

and-such is off hunting hares; this or that individual has been spirited away by a fox. . . .

Needless to say, the remaining collaborators (district administrators, officials, and paid agents of the NKVD) were

quick to catch on. Seeing how many of their number had already vanished under the very noses of the Russians, these

gentlemen suddenly became extremely reluctant to remain in their posts. And the Russians, anxious to stimulate the waning

zeal of their puppets, responded by subjecting other Lithuanians to stricter repressive measures than ever before. It was a

vicious circle because the end result of such tactics was to swell the ranks of the partisans, thereby enabling the movement

to conduct its activities on a still wider scale.

The increasing militancy of the armed resistance members provided a fairly accurate indication of the national

temperament at this time. Instead of submitting like sheep to their Russian oppressors, the Lithuanian people were becoming

more and more determined to resist them — even to the point of arming themselves and becoming outlaws in Soviet eyes.

Granted, the risks involved were tremendous. The Russians had vast numbers of troops stationed throughout Lithuania, not

to mention an extensive network of agents who seemed to be everywhere. As for their methods of dealing with offenders

— these were only too well known and much too cruel to be described except superficially. Yet in spite of all this, more

and more Lithuanians were arming themselves and joining the underground each day. Outraged by the never-ending waves

of arrests, robberies and murders, these men had solemnly pledged to stem the tide in any way that they could. They deemed

it better, by far, to die defending their countrymen than to live as virtual slaves.

*

Shortly after I had settled down in Kaunas, I was visited by a friend who had recently joined the ranks of the partisans

and had adopted the pseudonym of Uosis. He had come to Kaunas to make arrangements for getting a small printing press

out of the city. The Kaunas partisans had been using this press to run off draft exemption cards since the first days of

occupation. But now they wanted to turn it over to a partisan group known as “The Iron Wolf,” which was operating in one

of the nearby rural districts. During the course of our conversation, Uosis explained how he happened to become a member

of the armed resistance movement in the first place. He had applied for admission to the university, but found himself

rejected on the grounds that his father had been a volunteer soldier during the struggle for Lithuanian independence and had

later been awarded the highest Lithuanian order for bravery, the Knight’s Cross. Barred from the university, Uosis could

look forward to nothing better than arrest or mobilization. And so he decided to cast his lot with the partisans. This way he

would at least be able to fight back, he said.

He showed me a couple of draft exemption cards which had been printed on the “underground” press and asked me if

I knew of anyone who could use them. He assured me that it was virtually impossible to tell them apart from the real thing.

As a matter of fact, he had just recently tested them by deliberately going through three check points, and each time the

“Ivans” had looked at his papers and barked:

“All right! Seals in order! You may proceed!”

He also told me how he had managed to outwit the Russians several weeks ago, when he was picked up without any

documents whatsoever. He had just left partisan headquarters on a mission when a handful of them obstructed his path.

Naturally, they demanded to see his documents on the double. Uosis never did explain to me why he hadn’t brought them

along, but to the Russians he said that he didn’t need them: he was still much too young. He did have a birth certificate back

at the house, though. Very well. The Russians would go take a look at it. Now, where was his house? Uosis led them into

the woods and wandered around for a while, trying to think of some way to ditch them. Then, all at once, it came to him.

He pointed to a ramshackled cottage far on the opposite bank of a swamp and exclaimed:

“There! That’s where I live!”

47

The Russians sized up the place with disappointment. It was obvious that they wouldn’t find anything worth stealing

there. And since this was the only reason why they had been so eager to examine my friend’s mythical birth certificate, they

cursed him and stalked away in search of bigger game. “I suppose I should consider myself lucky,” Uosis concluded. “But,

to tell you the truth, I was just a little bit sorry that it ended as easily as it did. I was really itching to give those Russians a

good fight!”

Chapter 5….Continued in April

Saint Casimir’s Story…March 4th…Saint Casimir pray for us!

Casimir, born of kings and in line to be a king himself, was filled with exceptional values and learning by a great teacher,

John Dlugosz. Even his critics could not say that his conscientious objection indicated softness. As a teenager, Casimir lived

a highly disciplined, even severe life, sleeping on the ground, spending a great part of the night in prayer and dedicating

himself to lifelong celibacy. When nobles in Hungary became dissatisfied with their king, they prevailed upon Casimir’s

father, the king of Poland, to send his son to take over the country. Casimir obeyed his father, as many young men over the

centuries have obeyed their governments. The army he was supposed to lead was clearly outnumbered by the “enemy”;

some of his troops were deserting because they were not paid. At the advice of his officers, Casimir decided to return home.

His father was irked at the failure of his plans, and confined his 15-year-old son for three months. The lad made up his mind

never again to become involved in the wars of his day, and no amount of persuasion could change his mind. He returned to

prayer and study, maintaining his decision to remain celibate even under pressure to marry the emperor’s daughter. He

reigned briefly as king of Poland during his father’s absence. He died of lung trouble at 25 while visiting Lithuania, of which

he was also Grand Duke. He was buried in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Reflection

For many years, Poland and Lithuania faded into the gray prison on the other side of the Iron Curtain. Despite repression,

the Poles and Lithuanians remained firm in the faith which has become synonymous with their name. Their youthful patron

reminds us: Peace is not won by war; sometimes a comfortable peace is not even won by virtue, but Christ’s peace can

penetrate every government repression of religion.

COME TO MASS AT HOLY CROSS LITHUANIAN CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY AT 1030a

48

KOVAS Kovas (March) may derive from the noun kovas, the rook, or the noun kova, meaning battle. Rooks increase their activity

at this time, building their nests and mating. The alternate derivation refers to the struggle between winter and spring. It was

formerly known as morčius and karvelinis.

49

REGION XII…

MASS INTENTIONS Dayton Region XII,

including Holy Cross Lithuanian Church:

1. All Mass Intention requests must be in writing

2. Include who the intention is for

3. The date mass is requested for

4. The Mass preference, i.e.: 1030a @ Holy Cross

5. The Church, i.e.: 1030a @ Holy Cross

6. Only six requests will be allowed per family.

7. The Mass stipend is $5 per Mass.

8. If paying by check, please make the check

payable to the Church where the Mass Intention

will be said, i.e.: payable to Holy Cross

9. Mass Intentions can also be requested by mail

(St. Peter Church, Parish Administration Office,

6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights 45424)

10. Emailed jbarbour@saintpeterparish.org

11. Currently, no Mass Intentions will be taken by

phone.

12. All intentions must be in writing

13. They will be put in the book on a first-come, first-

served basis.

14. Since we will be taking Mass Intentions for all

four churches, we are hoping the above

guidelines help the process go more smoothly.

15. Please contact Jan Barbour at 937.233.1503 or

email jbarbour@saintpeterparish.org

for additional information.

To reserve HOLY CROSS Church Hall for all

occasions:

1. Call the Region church office at 937.233.1503

2. Request your date

3. This will begin the reservation process.

4. Hall contracts on the bulletin board.

BULLETIN BOARDS in

CHURCH FOYERS 1. All flyers posted in the foyers at all Region XII

churches need to be cleared by the Parish

Administration Office.

2. Please call Laura at 937.233.1503 to receive

approval to post flyer.

EVENTS AFTER MASS

1. All parishioners & groups in Region XII who

would like to have event sign-ups following Mass or

sell items need to receive permission from the

Parish Administration Office

2. Please contact Laura at 937.233.1503.

CHURCH BULLETIN DEADLINE

1. Bulletin articles are due in writing by Friday at 12:00 noon (ten days before bulletin date) by

2. email to ljoliat@saintpeterparish.org,

3. or mailed or dropped off at the Parish Office.

4. For more information, please call Laura in the Parish Administration Office at 233-1503.

50

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Knights of Lithuania | Lietuvos Vyčiai

Established 1913

“For God and Country” | “Dievui ir Tėvynei”

Membership application

Council Number ____________Location/City ________________________________ Membership Status (please refer below)*

New Regular _______ Associate________ Returning______ Junior _______ Auxiliary regular _________ Auxiliary Junior__________

Print copy Vytis (1 per household) ____________ online copy (email) _______________________________ __________ Both_______

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I, the undersigned, apply for membership to the Knights of Lithuania and promise to abide by its constitution, by laws, National Convention

resolutions and recommendation and will support the organization through the paying of dues and participation at local, district and national levels,

as I am able.

___________________________________________________________ ____________________________________ Signature

of applicant Date of application

DUES: First member of a household is $30.00 (includes 1 print copy to Vytis- The Knight) Each subsequent member of a household is $15.00 with complimentary online Vytis. Juniors (through 16/18 years of age) per council per year is $5.00

*Membership status is:

New or returning regular member (16 years and older) is a practicing Catholic and of Lithuania ancestry.

Associate Catholic, non-Lithuanian spouse of regular member.

Regular juniors under age 18 and are practicing Catholics and of Lithuanian ancestry.

Auxiliary regular and juniors are not required to be Catholic or of Lithuanian ancestry, but must adhere to the ideals of the Knights

of Lithuania rooted in the motto “For God and Country” Knights of Lithuania office use only (form updated Nov. 2017)

We approve and accept this applicant for membership in Council ____________ amount of dues paid___________________

Signature council financial secretary ________________________________________________ Date__________________________________

Mail this form to the K of L National 2nd VP. Mail the dues to the K of L National Financial Secretary. Addresses on the website: knightsoflithuania.com

52

Knights of Lithuania #96 * Dayton, Ohio * Holy Cross Lithuanian RC Church * 1924 Leo St * Dayton, OH 45404

Knights of Lithuania

#96

c/o Holy Cross Lithuanian

Roman Catholic Church 1924 Leo Street

Dayton, Ohio 45404

PHONE: (937) 620.0978 mamikalauskas@aol.com

We’re on the Web! See us at:

KnightsOfLithuania.com

QUICK REFERENCE CALENDAR

Every Sunday 1030a mass & weekly Koffee Klatch

Every Wednesday 1230p BINGO 530p Holy Hour

Mar 1st St. Casimir’s Day and monthly meeting Mar 15th President Grybauskaitė in Cincinnati Apr 5th K of L monthly meeting Apr 12th Easter son-rise service

Want to sponsor an event? Talk to Michael Petkus at mass.

Dėkojame mūsų rėmėjams!

Dr. Alan Wilimitis, DO Child & Adolescent

Specialty Care

1483 W Main St Tipp City, OH 45371

937.667.7711 childandadolescentcare.com

Call for an appointment

COME TO 1030a mass EVERY SUNDAY

at HOLY CROSS

LITHUANIAN CHURCH