Friendly fire

Local Slovenians and Croatians fight for beanbag title and raise money for Joliet area hospice

Perhaps the countries of Slovenia and Croatia could learn a lesson in beanbag diplomacy to solve the long-standing border dispute between their two countries.

One of the most heated competitions of the summer -- the Slo-Cro Beanbag Tournament -- happened on one of the hottest days of the summer.

The Aug. 8 tournament was a joint effort between KSKJ (American Slovenian Catholic Union) St. Francis Lodge No. 29 and the Croatian Culture Club to raise money for Joliet Area Community Hospice.

But it also was a way to prove definitively whether the Slovenians or the Croatians were the better beanbag players.

The tournament at the Croatian Cultural Club in Joliet drew 78 beanbag players and many spectators, who not only watched the competition, but also took advantage of the great food, music and fun.

The committee that brought the tournament to fruition included Sally Boettcher, Melanie Keltz, Kathy Lovati, Mike Verbic and Joyce Vicich .

The tournament opened with the playing of the U.S. national anthem, followed by the Slovenian and Croatian anthems.

The ceremonial throwing of the first beanbag was tossed by John Jelinek , Croatian Club president; Joyce Vicich , St. Francis Lodge president; and Rick Kasper , hospice CEO.

After a few hours, the tournament was narrowed down to one Croatian team and one Slovenian team for the grueling championship match.

The result: the Slovenians now have "bagging" rights.

First prize went to the Slovenian team of John Churnovic Jr. and Jimmy Giordano . Second prize was won by the Croatian team of Pam Budeselich and Kyle Knezetic .

In addition to numerous businesses that provided food and prizes, six bands donated their time and talent. The bands performed inside and outside both during and after the tournament. Guests enjoyed dancing and a variety of music until midnight from: Krystalites, Bob Mutz Orchestra, Ray Koncar and the Boys, Harvest Moon, Larry Nickel, and the Too Loud Polka Band.

In the end, the Slovenians and Croatians set aside their beanbag differences and raised $3,300 for the hospice.