News

Evening of Humour in Derventa

01. April 2026
The Homeland Society hosted an Evening of Humor at the premises of the Branko Radičević National Library in Derventa, featuring renowned humorists and satirists - Vasilije Karan, Živko Vujić and Miladin Berić. They were joined by Mladen Prodan from the Homeland Society, as well as Milorad Mišo Đurđević from Derventa. The audience responded with resounding applause, warmly supporting and celebrating the performers.

57. Choir Festival Primorska Poje

28. February 2026
A representative of the Homeland Society, upon invitation from the Republika Srpska Slovenes’ Society Triglav, participated in the 57th Festival of Slovenian Choirs Primorska Poje 2026 in Bilje Local Hall, Nova Gorica, where five other choirs participated.

Annual Assembly

11. January 2026
The Annual Assembly of the Homeland Society Patrija Jelovac Prijedor was successfully concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Activity Report and Financial Report for 2025, as well as the Work Plan and Financial Plan for 2026.
On this occasion, the significant results achieved in the previous period were highlighted, reflecting the Society’s dedication and responsible work. At the same time, clear directions for future development were defined, and solid foundations were laid for the implementation of new projects and activities.

Seasonal Greetings

29. December 2025
The Homeland Society extended its holiday greetings to representatives of the institutions of the Republika Srpska, representatives of the City of Prijedor and the Municipality of Kozarska Dubica, as well as to all donors, people of goodwill around the world, members of the Society, partners, supporters, and collaborators. The greeting was sent on the occasion of the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays, with sincere wishes that the New Year 2026 be filled with optimism, fresh enthusiasm, good health, and personal happiness!

Delegation of the City in Jelovac

23. December 2025
At the invitation of the Homeland Society, a working meeting was held with a delegation of the City of Prijedor, led by Mayor Slobodan Javor. On that occasion, discussions focused on the needs of the village, the continuation of works on the Patrija of Living Memories Home in 2026, as well as the future plans and activities of the Homeland Society.

Evening of Humour in Prijedor

15. December 2025
The City Library "Cyril and Methodius" and the Homeland Society jointly hosted an EVENING OF HUMOUR, featuring renowned humorists and satirists Miladin Berić, Živko Vujić, and Vasilije Karan. They were joined by Mladen Prodan from the Homeland Society. Held in the City Reading Room, the event was met with rapt attention and rewarded by the audience with thunderous applause, warmly celebrating every performance.

OUR JELOVAC in Banja Luka

1. December 2025
The Homeland Society, in cooperation with the Republika Srpska Slovenes' Society Triglav, organized a literary evening in Banja Luka at which the literary oeuvre of Vasilije Karan was presented, along with the collection Our Jelovac - Anthology of Jelovac Poets. The event highlighted the rich creative legacy of this distinguished writer while also affirming a lasting commitment to the preservation and celebration of Jelovac’s cultural heritage.

Culture of Remembrance - World War I Armistice

11. November 2025
The Homeland Society marked Armistice Day in the First World War (11 November 1918). Thirty-six volunteers from Gornji Jelovac who joined the Salonika Front fought in the Serbian Army from 1916 onwards. A decision has been made to install a memorial plaque in the spring of 2026 at the Patriјa Living Memories Home, to commemorate the 110th anniversary of their first engagement in the conflict.

New Home for Slavko Prodan

27. October 2025
The Homeland Society has completed the construction of a new home for Slavko V. Prodan. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all benefactors, with special recognition to Diana Vila and the company REGRAD Banja Luka for their generous financial contributions; to Milorad Vila, who voluntarily carried out a significant portion of the construction work; and to Rade Aleksić, who graciously donated the land for the building site.

Patrija Living Memories Home

31. August 2025
The Homeland Society is actively working on completing the fourth phase of construction of the Patriја Living Memories Home. This year, we plan to finish roofing the multi-purpose building, which is our most significant project.

Day of Remembrance for the Children Killed in the NDH

19. July 2025
The Day of Remembrance for the children killed during the genocide against Serbs, Jews, and Roma in the Independent State of Croatia was marked at the Memorial-Ossuary in Macure.
The ceremony gathered officials, diplomats, organizations, and many citizens. Among those present was Yuri Pichugin, the representative of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in BiH, reflecting international acknowledgment of the tragedy.
Members of the Homeland Society also took part at the commemoration.

Petrovdan Lilas at Patrija Plateau

11. July 2025
This year as well, the Homeland Society co-organized the traditional lighting of lilas (on St. Peter’s Eve) made from dried wild cherry bark on the Patrija plateau. Alongside many young people, adults also took part, as well as children who, as always, enjoyed this joyful and light-filled celebration the most.

83rd anniversary of the Kozara Breakthrough

05. July 2025
Organized by the City Committee of SUBNOR Prijedor, the 83rd anniversary of the Kozara Breakthrough was commemorated at Patrija, marking the heroic breakthrough from the Nazi-Ustasha encirclement during the offensive against Kozara and Potkozarje. The commemoration was preceded by the laying of wreaths at the Macure Memorial-Ossuary and the Patrija Breakthrough Monument, in the presence of delegations, descendants, and citizens. Among those present was our Homeland Society, which with dignity paid tribute to the fallen fighters and innocent civilians, thereby preserving the memory of their sacrifice and the enduring spirit of Kozara's freedom-loving tradition.

"Our Jelovac" in Oslo

29. June 2025
The Homeland Society organized a presentation in Oslo (Norway) featuring the most beautiful verses from the Anthology of Jelovac poets, "Our Jelovac", which includes works by fourteen authors. Through performances by Milijana Bariša, Milan Janković, and the Anthology's editor, the audience was introduced to one or two poems from each author. The moderator of the event was Marina Prodan. At the very beginning of the promotion, journalist Saša Dimitrijević from Niš reminded the audience that this was a Vidovdan-themed presentation of "Our Jelovac" in Oslo.
The book launch in Oslo was enriched by an online performance by members of the Women's Singing Group of the Cultural and Artistic Society "Knešpolje" from Knežica, who performed three traditional songs from the Potkozarje region.

Third Kotlićijada on the Patrija Plateau

08. June 2025
The Homeland Society supported and participated in the Third Kotlićijada, organized by the Hunting Association "Mrakovica" - Patrija Section. On this occasion, certificates of appreciation were awarded to all participants, and winner trophies were given to the most successful ones. In the presence of several hundred visitors, accompanied by singing groups and the traditional Kozara circle dance (KOLO), old Kozara songs echoed through the air.

Traditional Mowing Event in Knežica

07. June 2025
The Homeland Society, upon the invitation of the Cultural and Artistic Society Knešpolje Knežica, participated in the traditional Mowing Festival (Kosidba) in Knežica.
All participants received Certificates of Appreciation.

The Day of the Homeland Society Established

01. June 2025
The Homeland Society has adopted its Decision to designate the Feast of Saints Cyril and Methodius celebrated on 24th May - as the Day of the Homeland Society and its Patron Feast.
From now on, this date will stand as a time of gathering, spiritual unity, and the preservation of our homeland traditions.

Festive Parade Through the Streets of Prijedor

30. May 2025
The Homeland Society took part in the ceremonial parade through the streets of the City of Prijedor, marking 33 years since the city's defense and 83 years since its liberation.
On this occasion, the members of the Homeland Society paid tribute to all the heroes who contributed to the fight for peace and freedom.

Memorial Service for VRS Soldiers

26. April 2025
The Homeland Society took part in the memorial service for twenty VRS soldiers from the village who gave their lives in the homeland war, which ended 30 years ago.

New Home for Slavko Prodan - Initiative

21. April 2025
The Homeland Society has launched an initiative to build a new home for Slavko V. Prodan. Contributions can be made to Milorad Vila or deposited into bank account 555-100-00390001-76, indicating that the payment is for Slavko Prodan.

World Poetry Day

24. March 2025
In honour of World Poetry Day, the Homeland Society joined hands with the Republika Srpska Slovenes' Society Triglav, the Czech Beseda Society, and KUD Vardar Banja Luka to host a cultural celebration at the premises of the Triglav Society in Banja Luka.
Poetry enthusiasts were treated to heartfelt readings by renowned poets writing in Slovenian, Czech, Macedonian, and Serbian. The Homeland Society proudly presented selected verses from its publication OUR JELOVAC – Anthology of Jelovac Poets, offering guests both literary inspiration and a meaningful book promotion.
This event showcased not only poetic beauty but also the spirit of multicultural connection and artistic collaboration.

Annual Assembly

19. January 2025
The Annual Assembly of the Homeland Society Patrija Jelovac Prijedor successfully concluded with the adoption of the 2024 Annual Report and Financial Report, as well as approval of the Work Plan and Financial Plan for 2025.
The Assembly highlighted a year of meaningful accomplishments and laid the foundation for new projects and community engagement in the year ahead.

ОUR JELOVAC - Book Launch in Oslo

14. January 2025
The book OUR JELOVAC – Anthology of Jelovac Poets was officially promoted at the International Press Centre in Oslo, Norway. The event was attended by a diverse audience hailing from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia, reflecting the transnational appeal of the collection.
This promotion marks a significant step in bringing the voices of Jelovac poets to an international stage and reaffirming the Homeland Society’s commitment to cultural preservation through literary excellence.

Seasonal Greetings

30. December 2024
The Homeland Society extended heartfelt holiday greetings to representatives of Republika Srpska institutions, the City of Prijedor, the Municipality of Kozarska Dubica, and to all contributors, friends, members, partners, and people of goodwill across the globe.
With warm wishes for a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the Society expressed hope that 2025 brings renewed optimism, enthusiasm, and good health to all. !

Book Promotion: OUR JELOVAC in Kozarska Dubica

05. December 2024
The Library of Kozarska Dubica hosted a successful promotion of OUR JELOVAC - Anthology of Jelovac Poets, organized by the Homeland Society. The evening featured live poetry readings and a musical performance by the Women’s Singing Group of KUD Knešpolje from Knežica, adding a special cultural touch to the event.

Poetic Evening in Prijedor

29. October 2024
The packed Reading Room of the "St. Cyril and Methodius" Library in Prijedor welcomed the promotion of OUR JELOVAC. The event featured readings from six contributing poets, accompanied by the melodic voices of KUD Knešpolje’s Women’s Singing Group, creating an evening of moving verse and cultural pride.

International Choir Festival - Subotica 2024

27. September 2024
A representative of the Homeland Society, upon invitation from the Republika Srpska Slovenes’ Society Triglav, took part in the International Festival of Slovenian Choirs in the Ceremonial Hall of Subotica City Hall, showcasing artistic cooperation across cultures and borders.

Anthology Publication: OUR JELOVAC

01. August 2024
The Homeland Society proudly published OUR JELOVAC / Anthology of Jelovac Poets, featuring ten poets from Gornji Jelovac and one each from the neighbouring villages of Donji Jelovac, Mlječanica, Pogleđevo, and Crna Dolina. Promotions were scheduled in Gornji Jelovac, Prijedor, and Kozarska Dubica.

Remembrance Day for Innocent Children - Macure

19. July 2024
This event was organized by the Committee of the Government of Republika Srpska for the Cherishing of the Tradition of Liberation Wars, and brought together survivors, descendants, local residents, and dignitaries from across the region to honour the memory of the youngest victims of NDH genocide.
Amidst the quiet dignity of the memorial-ossuary grounds, attendees reflected on the profound loss of life and the importance of preserving historical truth. The commemoration served as a call for remembrance, justice, and peace, ensuring that such tragedies are never forgotten - or repeated.
Following the memorial service, a working meeting was held, allowing for meaningful dialogue with high-level guests and the continuation of collaborative efforts in cultural memory preservation. The gathering concluded with refreshments and heartfelt conversations among participants.
By preserving remembrance, the Homeland Society renews its commitment to honouring the past, guiding future generations, and upholding the dignity of every innocent life lost.

St. Peter’s Eve: Wild Cherry Bark Burning Tradition

11. July 2024
In celebration of St. Peter’s Day, the Homeland Society hosted the traditional burning of dry wild cherry bark at the Patrija plateau. The event drew children, youth, and adults, and brought special joy to over thirteen participating children, preserving this beloved local custom.

82nd Anniversary of the Kozara Breakthrough

30. June 2024
The Homeland Society joined SUBNOR Prijedor and other organizations to mark the 82nd anniversary of the Kozara Breakthrough, laying wreaths at Macure Memorial-Ossuary and the Kozara Breakthrough 1942 monument - Patrija. The Society also prepared military-style beans, offering meals to attendees in the spirit of solidarity and remembrance.

Kotlićijada - Traditional Cauldron Cook-Off at Patrija Plateau

09. June 2024
Three teams from Gornji Jelovac, including the Homeland Society, showcased their culinary skills at KOTLIĆIJADA, a popular outdoor stew competition featuring 33 teams. Cultural groups performed traditional Kozara songs and Kozara Kolo dances in front of hundreds of delighted visitors.
All participants received certificates of appreciation from the Mrakovica Hunting Association.
Više stotina učesnika na Kotlićijadi u Gornjem Jelovcu

Traditional Mowing - Kosidba 2024

08. June 2024
At the invitation of KUD Knešpolje Knežica, the Homeland Society took part in the Kosidba traditional mowing festival. Participants Milorad Mićo Knežević, Dušan Aleksić, Miroslav Mićko Prodan, and Society President Radenko Petrić were honoured with certificates of appreciation for their contributions.

City Parade: 32 Years of Defense and 82 Years of Liberation

30. May 2024
In response to the mayor’s official invitation, the Homeland Society proudly marched in the ceremonial city parade, commemorating 32 years of defense and 82 years of liberation of the city, paying tribute to resilience and freedom.

Pecija's Paths 2024 - Mountain March

28. April 2024
In a spirit of remembrance and unity, members of the Homeland Society participated in the annual Pecija’s Paths Mountain March 2024, joining dozens of fellow hikers on a 13-kilometre march through the historic landscape of Krajina.
The route began at the serene Moštanica Monastery, winding through Gradina and Palež, and back, retracing the footsteps of Petar Popović Petrović Pecija - a legendary Serb hajduk and leader of the 1858 Kostajnica Uprising and the 1875 Krajina Rebellion.
At the midpoint of the march, participants paused for a heartfelt recitation, honouring Pecija’s courage and the enduring struggle for freedom, peace and justice in the region. The moment offered reflection and a deepened sense of connection to the past.
The Homeland Society is proud to uphold this tradition, preserving the memory of heroic figures and inspiring future generations through history, culture, and community engagement.

Memorial Service for Fallen VRS Soldiers

27. April 2024
The Homeland Society took part in the Memorial Service for the fallen VRS soldiers of the Defensive-Homeland War (1991 - 1995) at the memorial site in the centre of the village.

Days of Violets - Celebration of Herbal Wisdom

13. April 2024
The Homeland Society participated in Days of Violets, hosted by the HERBA Women’s Association in Crna Dolina. The event showcased valuable knowledge about medicinal plants, promoting traditional healing practices and community engagement.

Book Promotion: KRVOPAD - Polar Pilgrimage

21. March 2024
In a powerful collaboration with public libraries and the Banski Dvor Cultural Center, the Homeland Society organized a multi-city literary tour to promote the compelling book KRVOPAD - Polar Pilgrimage, written by Saša Dimitrijević from Niš.
This deeply moving work sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of World War II history - the tragic fate of forced labourers from the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, deported to Nazi concentration camps in Norway between 1942 and 1945. Of the thousands interned, over half perished, with 90 % being ethnic Serbs, subjected to brutal conditions and inhumane treatment.
Among those who survived was Slavko Drča from Gornji Jelovac, who miraculously endured the horrors of a camp in Central Norway and returned to his homeland - a living testament to human resilience and the will to survive.
Promotional events were held in Prijedor, Banja Luka, Mrakovica, Knežica, Kozarska Dubica, Klekovci, and Gradiška, drawing emotional responses from attendees and sparking important conversations about memory, identity, and justice.
KRVOPAD stands as both a tribute to the victims and a reminder of the sacrifices made during one of history’s darkest periods. The Homeland Society is proud to have played a role in sharing this essential narrative with communities across the region.

Annual Assembly 2024: Plans and Progress

21. January 2024
The Homeland Society Patrija Jelovac Prijedor convened its Annual Assembly, during which it formally adopted the 2023 Activity and Financial Reports, as well as the Work Plan and Financial Plan for 2024, setting a clear course for future development and community projects.

Patrija Living Memories Home - Ground Floor Completed

18. December 2023
Thanks to the generosity of individuals from abroad and within our local communities, including the City of Prijedor and the Municipality of Kozarska Dubica, the concreting of the slab on the walled ground floor of the Patrija Living Memories Home was successfully completed. This milestone, led by the Homeland Society marks a significant step in the realization of a long-cherished vision and goal.

Partisan Breakthrough Road Fully Asphalted

01. November 2023
The company "Prijedorputevi" has successfully completed the asphalting of the final 5.300-meter section of the regional road II order No.1508, historically known as the Partisan Breakthrough Road. The road now seamlessly connects Gornji Jelovac with Međuvođe via Patrija and Mlječanica, improving access and regional connectivity.

Renovated Monument Unveiled in Kolarova Luka

13. October 2023
The Homeland Society took part in a commemorative event organized by the City Committee of SUBNOR Prijedor in Kolarova Luka. A solemn ceremony marked the reopening of a monument dedicated to 109 Serb civilians killed in 1942 by NDH Ustashas and German Nazi forces. The event was attended by village residents and Prijedor city officials, including the Mayor of Prijedor.

Road Survey Completed for Remaining Section

28. September 2023
Engineers from Republika Srpska Roads conducted a thorough survey of the last unpaved 2.100-meter stretch of the regional road II order No.1508, extending from Macursko Raskršće to Trubarski Kamen. A detailed estimate of the necessary works will be finalized next week, after which technical director Mirosav Janković will be briefed.

Bricklaying Begins on Patrija Living Memories Home

21. August 2023
Construction of the Patrija Living Memories Home has entered a new phase with the commencement of bricklaying. This multi-purpose facility is being built with the support of generous villagers, and funding from the City of Prijedor and Municipality of Kozarska Dubica. The Home will honour past, present, and future generations, especially those who sacrificed their lives for justice, peace, and freedom.

Remembrance Day for Murdered Children in NDH

19. July 2023
In solemn remembrance, the Homeland Society joined the Republic-level commemoration at the Macure Monument Ossuary for children killed in the NDH genocide. Organized in cooperation with the Republika Srpska Ministry of Labour, War Veterans, and Disabled Persons' Protection, the ceremony honoured the memory of innocent victims.
The holy liturgy was service in the Church of the Ascension of Jesus Christ in Donji Jelovac on the same day (in the morning).

Traditional Burning of Wild Cherry Bark

11. July 2023
On the eve of St. Peter's Day, the Homeland Society hosted the traditional "lilanje" (burning of dry wild cherry bark) at Patrija Plateau. Symbolizing the burning of sins, the event brought together adults, youth, and especially children, creating a joyful and spiritually uplifting gathering.

Evening of Literature in Knežica

09. July 2023
The Homeland Society held a literary evening featuring the novel "The Wind Has Not Stopped Yet" by Vasilije Karan. The ambiance was enriched by the musical performance of Dušan Dule Aleksić, who played tambourine, flute, and mouth harmonica.

National Gathering on Patrija Hill

25. June 2023
The Homeland Society joined SUBNOR Prijedor in a national gathering marking the 81st anniversary of the Nazi-Ustasha Offensive on Kozara and Potkozarje. Wreaths were laid at the at Kozara 1942 Breakthrough monument on Patrija Hill, followed by commemorative speeches honoring the martyred fighters and Serb civilians.

Traditional Mowing Event in Knežica

10. June 2023
Invited by KUD Knešpolje from Knežica, members of the Homeland Society participated in the traditional mowing festival. Mowers Milorad Mićo Knežević, Milorad Vila, Dušan Dule Aleksić, Miroslav Mićko Prodan, and Society President Radenko Petrić received certificates of appreciation for their participation.

Kozara Songs and Traditional Kolo Dance (Kolo)

04. June 2023
Patrija Hill came alive with traditional Kozara songs and dances as the Homeland Society hosted a gathering that brought together singing groups and the local community. Attendees celebrated their heritage by dancing the traditional Kolo together.

Ceremonial Parade in Prijedor

30. May 2023
At the mayor's invitation, the Homeland Society proudly marched in a ceremonial parade through Prijedor, commemorating the 31st anniversary of the city's defense and the 81st anniversary of its liberation.

Evening of Arts

29. April 2023
The Homeland Society organized a vibrant Evening of Arts in Gornji Jelovac, attended by over seventy guests. The event featured actress Mirela Predojević, writer Vasilije Karan, painters Nevenka Aleksić Aljetić and Milorad Vila, sculptor Milorad Vila, and musicians from KUD Knešpolje Knežica, including Dušan Aleksić.

Annual Assembly of the Homeland Society

22. January 2023
The Annual Assembly successfully adopted the Work and Financial Reports for 2022, as well as the Work Plan and Financial Plan for 2023, ensuring a transparent and strategic direction for the year ahead.

Cermony at Patrija Plateau

28. September 2022
To celebrate the completion of a new section of the Partisan Breakthrough Road, a ceremonial gathering was held at Patrija Plateau. Organized by the Mayor of Prijedor, Mr. Slobodan Javor, the event drew almost two hundred residents from Gornji Jelovac, underscoring the importance of infrastructure in preserving historical memory and fostering community connection.

Additional Asphalting of Partisan Breakthrough Road

22. September 2022
On the feast day of Saints Joachim and Anna, the company "Prijedorputevi" completed the asphalting of an additional segment of the historic Partisan Breakthrough Road. With this addition, the total asphalted stretch now reaches 3.200 meters. To achieve full connectivity with the existing road near Trubarci, a final segment of 2.100 meters remains to be paved.

Church of the Holy Martyrs of Jasenovac in Međuvođe

03. September 2022
The Church of the Holy Martyrs of Jasenovac in Međuvođe, Kozarska Dubica - the first of its kind in the Banja Luka Diocese - is steadily taking shape. A sacred space dedicated to the memory of the innocent civilian Serb victims from World War II, it holds special significance for Gornji Jelovac, from which more than a quarter of the village's victims perished in the Jasenovac death camp. The Serbian Orthodox Church Municipality of Knežica invites people of goodwill to support its completion with donations.
Donation Information:
• SPCO (Serbian orthodox church muncipality) Knežica
• BAM Account: 5620100000184305
• IBAN: BA395620108047299649
• SWIFT: RAZBBA22
• Bank: NLB Banka, Milana Tepića 4, 78000 Banja Luka
Invitation to people of good will to keep the memory of the footsteps of the Jasenovac martyrs
Church of the Holy Martyrs of Jasenovac in Međuvođe

Remembrance Day for Children Killed in the NDH

19. July 2022
A solemn Republic-level commemoration (organized by the Ministry of Labour, War Veterans and Disabled Persons' Protection) took place at the Macure Monument-Ossuary, honoring the Serb children murdered during the NDH regime. The Homeland Society hosted a post-ceremony luncheon for distinguished guests, reaffirming the collective duty to preserve the memory of these young martyrs.

Traditional Burning of Wild Cherry Bark on Patrija Plateau

11. July 2022
In keeping with tradition, the Homeland Society hosted the annual "lilanje" (burning of dry wild cherry bark) on the eve of St. Peter's Day. This spiritually symbolic act, representing the burning away of human sins, brought together villagers of all ages in an uplifting and joyful celebration.

National Gathering on Patrija Hill

26. June 2022
To mark the 80th anniversary of the Nazi-Ustasha Offensive on Kozara and Potkozarje, SUBNOR Prijedor organized a national gathering at Patrija Hill. The event included a wreath-laying ceremony and speeches honoring the heroism and sacrifice of fallen fighters and Serb civilians. The Homeland Society hosted a commemorative lunch following the proceedings.

Local School Closes After 99 Years

23. June 2022
After nearly a century of dedicated service, the local elementary school bid farewell to its final four students. At a heartfelt closing ceremony, the Homeland Society awarded letters of gratitude to the students, their teacher, and religious educator. Students also received meaningful gifts. The school’s legacy began in 1923 with its first student, Rade Bokan, son of Stevo, from the common school in Donji Jelovac.

Foundation Slab Completed for Patrija Living Memories Home

17. June 2022
The foundational concrete slab of the Patrija Living Memories Home was successfully laid today, marking the beginning of a meaningful journey. The Homeland Society extends a heartfelt appeal to the broader community to support this noble project, which will serve as a space of remembrance, culture, and community engagement.

Annual Assembly Held

23. January 2022
The Annual Assembly of the Homeland Society concluded with the adoption of the 2021 Work and Financial Reports, as well as strategic plans for 2022. The session reaffirmed the Society's commitment to cultural preservation, historical remembrance, and local development.

Progress in Constructing the Living Memories Home

29 December 2021
The Republika Srpska Ministry of Labour, War Veterans, and Disabled Persons’ Protection has officially approved funding for the construction of the concrete slab foundation for the Patrija Living Memories Home. This marks an important milestone in the realization of this meaningful memorial and multi-purpose facility.

Partly Asphalting of the Partisan Breakthrough Road

31. August 2021
Following the order of Mr. Milorad Dodik, Chairman of the BiH Presidency, issued on 19 July 2021 in Macure, the company "Prijedorputevi" promptly commenced groundwork for the next section of the Partisan Breakthrough Road. By the feast day of St. John of Rila (Sv. Jovan Rilski), approximately 1.800 meters of roadway had been successfully asphalted, further enhancing local infrastructure and historical connectivity.

Support for the Homeland Society’s Call for Cooperation

31. July 2021
The Homeland Society’s invitation for collaboration has yielded encouraging results. Several membership applications were submitted and generous financial contributions were received. Membership in the Homeland Society remains free of charge, with voluntary donations welcomed from those who wish to support its mission.

First Republic-Level Remembrance Day for Children Killed in the NDH

19. July 2021
The Republika Srpska officially observed for the first time Republic-level Remembrance Day for children murdered during the genocide perpetrated by the Independent State of Croatia (NDH). Held at the mass grave in the hamlet of Macure, the event drew a large crowd - underscored by a heavy rain, as if the skies mourned too. Distinguished guests included BiH Presidency Chairman Milorad Dodik, government ministers, MPs, local officials, members of the Third Infantry Regiment (RS), veterans’ associations, esteemed academic Matija Bećković, young actress Biljana Čekić (aged 13), clergy, and other civil society representatives. The Homeland Society played an important role in organizing this moving commemoration.

Homeland Society Issues Public Call for Co-operation

19. June 2021
Today, the Homeland Society distributed a public invitation for cooperation to numerous contacts via e-mail and Viber. A follow-up report will be published at the end of July 2012 listing those who responded to this call for unity and cultural preservation.

Homeland Society Patrija Jelovac Prijedor de jure founded

11. April 2021
In response to the absence of any legal entity in Gornji Jelovac capable of engaging in community-building and cultural work, the founding assembly of the Homeland Society was held today. Radenko Petrić was elected president. The Society is now officially registered with the Republika Srpska Ministry of Administration and Local Self-Government and the First Instance Court in Prijedor. Although its de facto operations began in January 2019, this date marks the Society's legal establishment.

Meeting with the Mayor of Prijedor

11. February 2021
Representative of Gornji Jelovac Radenko Petrić, Radomir Macura, and Milan Stojanović - held a productive meeting with Prijedor’s Mayor, Mr. Dalibor Pavlović. Discussions centered around the asphalting of the Partisan Breakthrough Road, the upcoming Republic-level commemoration of children killed in the NDH, and the next steps in constructing the Patrija Living Memories Home. Kozarska Dubica’s cadastral survey was nearing completion, and the Mayor was urged to accelerate Prijedor’s cadastral work to enable a formal agreement with the public company "Putevi Srpske".

Beginning of the Construction of the Living Memories Home

03. November 2020
Construction has officially begun on the Patrija Living Memories Home, a long-anticipated multi-purpose memorial and community center. This facility, situated near the Breakthrough Monument on Patrija Hill, has been made possible with essential support from the Republika Srpska Ministry of Labour, War Veterans, and Disabled Persons’ Protection.

Establishment of an Official Remembrance Day for NDH Child Victims

12. October 2020
The Government Committee for Preserving the Legacy of Liberation Wars has passed a decision to commemorate, at the Republic level, the "Remembrance Day for Children Killed in the Independent State of Croatia (NDH)." These annual memorials will take place on 19 July at Macure Memorial-Ossuary, Gornji Jelovac.

Regional Status Granted to the Partisan Breakthrough Road

09. June 2020
Following advocacy efforts led by the Homeland Society, the Republika Srpska Government reclassified the local roads Međuvođe - Mlječanica and Mlječanica - Gornji Jelovac (known collectively as the Partisan Breakthrough Road) as a regional second-order road (R-II). This change, effective from 17 June 2020, is published under registration number 1508. ("Republika Srpska Official Gazette", No. 55/20).

Gathering at Patrija Hill

04. August 2019
A gathering of forty people was held at Patrija Hill, organized by Radenko Petrić, Dr Stojan Stole Aleksić, and Branislav Prodan. The event was attended by notable guests including former RS president counsellor Pantelija Ćurguz, ŠG Prijedor director Saša Bursać, and Dr Rajko Srdić. An initiative to asphalt the Partisan Breakthrough Road was unanimously endorsed and forwarded to key government officials including Milenko Đaković (Mayor of Prijedor), Milorad Dodik (BiH Presidency member), Željka Cvijanović (Republika Srpska President), and other ministers and public figures (Dr. Radovan Višković, Prime Minister; Neđo Trninić, Minister of Transport and Communications; Duško Milunović, Minister of Labour, War Veterans and Disabled Persons' Protection; and Dr. Radenko Reljić, mayor of Kozarska Dubica).

Inception of the Patrija Hill Gathering Idea

02. January 2019
The concept of a communal gathering on historic Patrija Hill, long a sentinel over the region, was put forward by Stojan Stole Aleksić, Rajko Reljić, and Mladen Prodan. Their vision was to unite local leaders and intellectuals - including Prof. Dr. Miodrag Zec, Dr. Dušan Dule Aleksić, and Colonel Milan Stojanović - for a meaningful conversation with Prijedor’s mayor about the long-needed asphalting of the Partisan Breakthrough Road. On this date, the Homeland Society Patrija Jelovac Prijedor was born (de facto founded) in spirit, laying the groundwork for future formal registration.

Churches in the Neighborhood

• Church of the Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Jelovac Donji
• Church of Our Holy Mother Paraskeva in Mlječanica
• Church of the Protecting Veil of the Most Holy Mother of God Knežica

Service Activities
 

• Ribnjak - restaurant Zavišić on the Jelovačka River
• Ribnjak - restaurant Radukić on the Mlječanica River
• Car Seller Asha Auto on the Road М-15

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