BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) - The Slavonian Ladies Auxiliary continued the tradition of making authentic pusharatas for sale during the holidays, maintaining a practice that has lasted 40 years.
Club president Faye Misko said the group makes the fruit-filled donuts covered in a glaze for preorder, calling the same customers year after year.
“Since 1982, I believe it was the first year,” said Misko.
The tradition began when younger members suggested selling pusharatas to raise money. The pastries originally sold for $3 per dozen and have increased in price since then.
Production has also expanded from 30 to 40 pounds in the early years to approximately 140 pounds currently.
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“We do it as our fundraiser, we give donations to charity each month and scholarships to our graduating seniors every year,” said Misko.
The preparation process begins a week before frying day at the Slavonian Lodge in Biloxi. Members cut fruit including apples, oranges, and lemons, and prepare spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They also make boxes and prepare bags to pack the pusharatas.
The group always fries on December 22, and customers pick up orders on December 23 each year.
This year, the auxiliary had to make 872 dozen pusharatas for preorders. If there are extras, the additional pastries are available for sale afterward.
“I love the club, and I love helping do this,” said Misko. “I learned from the older members; they taught us so much about our heritage, and this was one of them. I hope that it continues to go forward each year.”
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