A Magazine for SNPJ Juveniu * t# o FEBRUARY 1944 Mladinski List JUVENILE IVAN MOLEK......................Editor PHILIP GODINA - - - Business Manager CONTENTS FOR FEBRUARY Vsebina februarske številke POEMS, STORIES, ETC. Abraham Lincoln Walks at Midnight.— Lukec in njegov škorec (nadaljevanje) Včeraj je bilo, jutri bo (nadaljevanje).. ARTICLES, FEATURES Birthdays of the Great Men................................................... 3 Fun and Frolic............................................................... 9 Just For Fun................................................................. 7 Origin of the World, The..................................................... 2 Our Own Juvenile Circles.....................................................20 Our Pen Pals Write...........................................................26 Our School ..................................................................12 Zgodbe o bombažu........................................................... 11 Published monthly by the Slovene National Benefit Society for the members of its Juvenile Department. Annual subscription, $1.20; half year, 60c; foreign subscription, $1.50. Address: 2657 S. Lawndale Ave., Chicago 23, 111. Entered as second-class matter August 2, 1922, at the post office at Chicago, 111., under Act of August 24, 1912. Page .... 1 .... 5 ... 8 MLADINSKI LIST _____________JUVENILE____________________________________ LETO XXIII—ŠT. 2 CHICAGO, FEBRUARY, 1944 VOL. XXIII—No. 2 * ** * * * * * ** * *#■* *** ****** * *** *** *** *** * * * ********* “His head is bowed. He thinks of men and kings. Yea, when the sick world cries, how can he sleep? Too many peasants fight, they know not why, Too many homesteads in black terror weep.” From “Abraham Lincoln Walks at Midnight,” Lindsay ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ * ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♦ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ * ¥ ♦ ♦ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ * ♦ * ¥ ¥ ¥ ♦ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ♦ ♦ ♦ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ +*+********************** THE ORIGIN OF THE WORLD (Continued.) There are differences, also, between the forms of life on the various islands, because the water separating the islands is of oceanic depth. It forms a barrier between island and island, except to the fishes, which appeared to me to be the same all round the islands. The abysmal depths of the ocean, and the fierce tides which sweep between the islands, have made the forms of life on them vary in each place. Taking them full and large, the Galapagos Islands are the best examples I know of the law of development and variation. But you will see the same kind of thing wherever you go, and as clearly in Australia as in the Galapagos Islands. We had no rabbits here till somebody brought them from England. Why were there no rabbits here? Because they did not develop in this continent. But as soon as ever they were let loose here they developed into a pest that threatened, • at one time, to ruin the pastoral and farming idustries. We have spent millions of money in fighting them, and I am not sure that we have got them down now. If you think out the rabbit problem and the briar question, and the prickly pear and the Bathurst burr, and a lot of these things, you will see that my story of the origin of the world is necessarily true. CHAPTER XXI Early Men Once upon a time I heard a story, from the Arabic, which interested me very greatly. It was the story of a garden in the Persian country. The rose said to the lily: “I think that our gardener is a very wonderful man.” “Yes,” replied the lily, “I quite agree with you. What a long time he lives, and he never changes!” “That is a curious thing about him,” said the rose; and here her voice sank to a mysterious whisper as she added: “I think he lives for ever, because the rose that died soon after I was born, an old, old rose, said that he was just the same when she was born.” The lily bowed her gentle head, and replied: “Yes, I think he lives for ever.” You see, little girl, it all depends on the point of view. To the roses in the garden, the man who looked after them appeared to be immortal, simply because their lives were so very short. So the mountains appear to us to be everlasting, because we live such a little while. And the world appears to as like the gardener—to live for ever. But nothing lives for ever! All things pass— worlds, suns, systems—everything has its day, and then fades away. Nothing vanishes, as far as we know; but everything, changes its shape. We cannot think of real things going to nothing, any more than we can think of something coming from nothing. This may seem to be an out-of-the-way subject, yet it all belongs to the question of the origin of the world. Such a lot of things belong to it! Everything belongs to it, I think. You have never been to England, have you? Perhaps you will go some day. When you get to London, you will find there the mightiest city in the world, with nearly twice as many people in it as there are in the whole of Australia. And yet history goes back to the time when London was only a village, by a great river, with a few poor fishermen on its banks. Two thousand years ago there was no London at all, for when the Romans were in England they did not seem to think that the bank of the Thames was a great place; nor did the people who came after them realize for a long time how important the river was. When the kings were first crowned in England they were crowned at Winchester. London is quite modern, but when you drive through it on the top of a ’bus it seems to have always been. Nothing has always been! Nothing endures in the whole wide world. Everything fades and fails in all the wide universe, even men. A great poet once wrote:— For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; Even one thing befalleth them; As the one dieth, so dieth the other; Yea, they have all one breath; So that a man hath no pre-eminence above a beast; For all is vanity. All go unto one place; All are of the dust, And all turn to dust again. (Continued) Birthdays of the Great Men ar Led a rutin Charles Robert Darwin, the famous British naturalist, biologist and author of the world-shaking theory of evolution, was born on February 12, 1809, at Shrewsbury, England. His father was a physician, and his grandfather, Dr. Erasmus Darwin, Was a man of science and poet. Young Darwin’s mother died when he was eight years old. He received his early education at Shrewsbury and at 16 entered Edinburgh College to study medicine, which he soon gave up and his father sent him to Cambridge to become a clergyman. However, young Darwin was keenly interested in science from his early boyhood. Darwin completed his studies at Cambridge and obtained his degree as minister at 21, but never practiced the profession. Both at Edinburgh, where he wrote his first scientific paper, and at Cambridge he gained the friendship of much older scientific men, with whom he studied geology (the science °f the earth and its life). The following year he joined a scientific expedition which lasted five years and took him to such places as the Cape de Verde and other islands of the Atlantic. The expedition surveyed the South American coasts and adjacent islands, deluding the Galapagos, aftenoards visiting Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, Tasmania, and the Azores on the way home. Da rwin’s voyage is regarded as the real Preparation for his life work. His work on the geology of the countries visited, and that on coral islands, became the subject of volumes which he published after his return. His observations on the relation between animals in islands and those of the nearest continental areas, near akin and yet n°t the same, and between living animals and most recently extinct and found fossils ln the same country, led him to reflect deeply upon the modification of species. On his return home Darwin worked at his collectinos, first in Cambridge and then in London. For^hree years he was secretary of the Geological Society, but his health broke down and remained precarious during the whole of his life. The immense amount of work which he got through during the following years was only made possible by the tender care of his wife. From that time on Darwin was engaged upon the numerous researches which finally led to the great work of his life, “The Origin of Species,” published in 1859. The entire eidtion of 1250 copies was sold on the day of issue. It contains 14 chapters dealing with artificial selection by man and natural selection, with the laws of variations, and with the evidence for evolution. The theory of evolution is given the foremost place in this monumental work. Nine years later Darwin wrote “The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication” Then followed “The Descend of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex.” As the title implies, the latter really consists of two works. Soon thereafter “The Expression of the Emotions” was published, also his two previously published geological works on “Volcanic Islands” and “South America” as a single volume. He also published various volumes on botanical subjects. “The Fertilization of Orchids” appeared in 1862, and then “The Power of Movement in Plants” written in conjunction with his son Francis. Darwin’s theory of evolution dealt a severe blow to all religious dogma, and his own attitude regarding religion was that of the tolerant, unaggressive agnostic. His own words are “disbelief crept over me at a very slow rate, but was at last complete.” He first began to reflect deeply on the subject when he was 30 years old. The growth of science due to Darwin’s discoveries made more gigantic strides in his time than during all the past history of the race. His “Origin of Species” has given men a new idea of their own origin, and in so doing it has unsettled many old beliefs. It has brought logical questionings concerning life and death, and has led many men into religious doubt. Charles Darwin’s long life of patient work, the most fruitful, the most inspiring in the annals of modern science, came to an end on April 19, 1882, at the age of 73. He was buried in Westminster Abbey in London. 1 & *■ A VALENTINE PORTRAIT Drawn by Rosemary Panyan, age 16, Lodge 314, Buhl, Minn. the War of Independence, Washington was elected commander-in-chief of the American forces. His career henceforth is part of American history. During the 8 years of war, Washington visited Mount Vernon but once. He was compelled by superior forces at times to retreat and was reduced to the most desparate straits by lack of men and supplies and even conspiracies against his authority. But by his calm courage, prudence, firmness and perseverance he brought the war, with the aid of powerful allies, to a successful conclusion. In 1787, as representative of Virginia, he presided at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. This body formed the present Federal Constitution. Under this Constitution he was chosen first President and was inaugurated at New York, April 30, 1789, was reelected for a second term and served until 1797. On March 4, 1797, Washington returned to Mount Vernon for the quiet of home life. Two and a half years later, on Dec. 14, 1799, George Washington died. He was mourned by the whole nation. He was “first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” TOMMY GORNICK, 12, lodge 629, 331 Third St., Trafford, Pa. * FEBRUARY February is a cold month, It brings us frost and snow; Wherever I do really go, There’s only lots of cold. The children are all happy, With snowballs all galore; They love to skate and ride, Forever and ever more. MARGARET POLONČIČ, 16, lodge 124, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania. * A LITTLE TOKEN I received a little token, It means so much to me, It’s from a friend of mine And I know she thinks of me. I guess I’ll send her A little token, too; I hope she’ll know then That I still think of her. MARGARET POLONČIČ, 16, lodge 124, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania. * VALENTINE'S DAY Valentine’s Day is a day of valentines, But you must always give as a start. Of course, try to give different kinds, One that has a picture of a heart. We would rather give them than receive, This is a way in which we should believe. It is a way everyone has lots of joy, A ready smile from every girl and boy. MILLDRED ČRETNIK, 12, lodge 24, Rte. 2, Box 425, Ft. Smith, Ark. VALENTINE'S DAY The origin of these peculiar observances of Valentine’s Day is a subject not easily understood. First of all, according to the Encyclopedia Britan-nica, Valentine is the name of a considerable number of “saints.” The most celebrated are the two martyrs whose festivals fall on February 14— the one, a Roman priest, the other, bishop of Terni. Legend has it that the priest met a sad death by first being beaten with clubs and then beheaded. He seems to have had nothing to do with the matter beyond the accident of his day. The entire thing is based on legends. Mr. Donee in his “Illustrations of Shakespeare” says: “It was the practice in ancient Rome during a great par tof the month of February to celebrate the Lupercalia, which were feasts in honor of Pan (god of nature) and Juno (ancient goddess). On this occasion, amidst a variety of ceremonies, the names of young women were put into a box from which they were drawn by the men as chance directed. The pastors of the early church substituted, in the present instance, the names of the particular “saints” instead of those of the women; and as the festival of the Lupercalia (women dressed in wolf skins) had begun about the middle of February, they appeared to have chosen Valentine’s Day for celebrating the new feast because it occured nearly at the same time. It is evident that the outline of the ancient ceremonies was preserved but modified by the Christian system. It is reasonable to suppose that the above practice of choosing mates would gradually become reciprocal, and that all persons so chosen would be called Valentines, from the day on which the ceremony took place. Valentine’s Day is now almost everywhere a much commercialized, degenerated festival, but even its beginning wasn’t much better. Many people buy valentines to send to their friends merely for the fun of it. Some of them, however, are taken seriously by the sender and the receiver. Although they have no particular meaning whatsoever, they are a good source for laughter and joy among friends, especially in school. (Source; “Book of Days,” plus my own ideas) ZORA GOSTOVICH, 15, lodge 297, Box 531, Raton, New Mexico. * THE A. W. V. S. Any girl over the age of twelve should, if she can, join the American Women’s Voluntary Services. Why? Because it’s one of the many ways we girls can help the war effort. I joined the A. W. V. S. almost a year ago, and I must say I didn’t realize till recently the fine work they are doing toward the war effort. When I first applied, I was enrolled in the compaign for collecting books. These books were then sent to different USO branches and the Army Camps and Naval Stations, for the pleasure of our servicemen. Besides this campaign there is the scrap drive, and the girls certainly did well. We collected about 150 pounds of scrap rubber, iron, and other metals used in the production of war materials. Recently some of the girls started to collect waste fats, and the response was wonderful. The girls went to the homes personally, and the housewives were only too glad to give. The other members give up a great deal of their time selling war stamps and bonds. The AWVS booth can now be found at every theater and in the larger department stores. These members also knit clothing for the children of the married men in the armed forces, who cannot support their families. They also collect discarded clothing for these needy families. When I first joined I spent four hours a week at the AWVS chapter, enrolling new applicants and doing other clerical work. Now I am working two hours each week at the Bethany Hospital here in Brooklyn, rolling bandages, etc. At sup-Per time we take the trays to the patients, and each patient has a different diet; some of them must be fed, and that is our job. We also do many other odd jobs. We read to the patients, change their flowers, and the way we’re thanked is a Pleasure to do it. A week before Christmas, we started collecting toys and tried to repair anything that has to be repaired. At least once a year, those girls who are talented, pay a visit to one of the hospitals where they entertain the children. We have our monthly meetings each first Monday of the month, and discuss our progress during ^e past month. Pins are given for ten 'hours of service, and those girls’ names who are qualified r arm-bands or uniforms, are read. All pins, Uniforms and arm-bands must be purchased by the members themselves, for the AWVS collects no Ues nor do they raise any funds. A girl is enti- WINTER TIME rawn by Zora Gostovich, age 15, Lodge 297, Raton, N. M. tied to a uniform when she has put in forty hours of service. Our branch of the AWVS is not as large as some of the others in the U. S. but we are progressing splendidly and I urge any girl who does not as yet belong, to join at her first opportunity. MILDRED PADAR, 14, lodge 580, 1676 Linden St., Brooklyn 27, N. Y. * THE FIRST AVIATORS Forty years ago, on Dec. 17, 1903, at 10:37 in the morning, an airplane shaped like a box-kite soared from the sand dunes near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. It was the first time an airplane had risen from the ground under its own power. Orville Wright was at the controls of the plane which was witnessed by five Coast Guards. In the afternoon Orville and his brother Wilbur wrote a letter to their father saying they made four successful flights. The Wrights’ 1903 biplane carried only half a gallon of gasoline. Wilbur Wright died in 1912. Orville Wright is 72 years old now and still works every day. His office in Dayton, Ohio, is only a short distance from the bicycle shop where he and Wilbur assembled their first plane. The Wrights also discovered how to control a plane in the air. GRACE ANN GERDANCE, 12, lodge 559, 4933 W. 24th St., Cicero 50, 111. Important Dont's Read Them Twice, Thrice DON'T address your mail intended for publication in the ML to the Main Office of the SNPJ, to Slovene National Benefit Society, or to some person. The mail so addressed may be delayed and will be late for the intended issue. Address all such mail to Mladinski List, 2657-59 So. Lawndale Ave., Chicago, 111. DON'T write with pencil; use pen or, still bet ter, typewriter. DON'T write on both sides of the sheet. Paper is cheap. DON'T draw your picture with ordinary ink. We cannot use such drawings. Draw only with the India ink. DON'T draw in colors! It's a waste of time because we cannot use it. DON'T fold your drawings! Send them between two card-boards in a large envelope. DON'T omit your name, address, age, and lodge No., together with the parent's signature on the back of every piece of drawing or beneath any writing. And most important of all: DON'T copy any rhymes or pictures! Be honest with yourself and us! You can't get away with it very long! We are checking on that. Our Own Juvenile Circles of the S. N. P. J. m u CIRCLE Send all your questions and requests for your Juvenile Circles to Bro. Michael Vrhovnik, Director of the SNPJ Juvenile Dept., 2657 S. Lawndale Ave., Chicago, III. He has been elected the Director of Juvenile Circles and your Advisers should keep in touch with him. Juvenile Campaigners Win Prizes and Honors During the Juvenile 30th Anniversary Campaign, conducted by the SNPJ in the months of September, October and November of last year, 1461 new juvenile members were gained, bringing the total juvenile enrollment for 1943 to 3117, a new record for one year. This has boosted the Society’s juvenile membership to well over 16,500, the highest it has been since 1931. In the special juvenile contestants’ section of the recent campaign, six members of as many different Juvenile Circles of the SNPJ distinguished themselves notably by their participation as contestants and attainment of the quota of five' or more new members. The six juveniles, who deserve to be honored and congratulated on their success in the campaign, finished in the following order— Sylvia Trojar, Secretary of Circle No. 26, Chicago, Illinois, with 17 new members to her credit, won the top honors and a prize of $25. Mildred Padar, Secretary of Circle No. 50, Brooklyn, N. Y., with 13 members, took second place and a prize of $20. Marion Kaucic, an active member of Circle No. 38, Cleveland, Ohio, with 8 members, copped the third best prize of $15, while Frank Bedey, Vice-President of Circle No. 28, Roundup, Montana, with 7 members won the fourth and final cash prize of $10. Fifth and sixth places, respectively, were taken by Marlin Chick, President of Circle No. 16, Thomas, W. Va., who enrolled 6 new members, and James Podboy, Treasurer of Circle No. 27, Strabane, Pa., with 5 members. Congratulations to all. Incidentally, each of these members will receive a certificate of merit for then-splendid work in the campaign. The SNPJ is proud of these boys and girls and trusts that their first experience as campaigners is just a beginning of bigger and more important achievements—that they and many other juveniles will be found actively participating in future SNPJ campaigns for new members. By the way, boys and girls, what action are you now taking to increase the membership? Have you seen that new friend of yours, the one who recently moved into the neighborhood? Have you asked him to join your Circle? Better do so, before it’s too late and, while you’re about it, why not visit a few of your old prospects who failed to keep their promise. You have everything to gain—so try, won’t you? CONTEST RULES FOR 1944 The rules of the M. L. “Our School for Victory” contest of 1944 appear in this issue. Because we have many more reasons to believe that, this year, our victories on all fronts will be more numerous and decisive than any time in the past three years, We have again decided to use the same contest name as in the previous twelve months. Read the rules carefully from end to end. Don't miss the special contest subject, suggested for the month of April, in which you are urged to write about your most unusual experience or most exciting experience in 1943. It is not compulsory that you write on this subject, for you are left entirely at liberty to pick any other topic you desire. You may also send in drawings and/or pictures (photographs or snapshots clearly taken). By all means, make up your mind to join this contest, not only to achieve success for yourself, but also for the Circle and Lodge of which you are a member. NEW ROSTER OF CIRCLE OFFICERS The names and addresses of the new and reelected Circle Officers for 1944 will appear in the March issue of the Mladinski List. Managers, who have so far failed to report the results of t’heir annual election, are requested to do so at once to enable us to publish a complete roster. JUVENILE DIRECTOR. VERONIAN JUNIORS CIRCLE NO. 15 VERONA, PA.—The Veronian Juniors, Juvenile Circle No. 15, are really progressing very nicely. Let us hope that even bigger strides will be made in 1944. On Nov. 26, 1943, we had a meeting and elected the following officers for the ensuing year: Margie Tremba, President; Richard Papp, Vice President; Tillie Doles, Secretary; Helen Krulc, Treasurer; Catherine Suchevcih and Mary Tomazich, Reporters. Many new ideas were suggested at the previous Meeting. Writing letters to the boys on the Vero-nian Servicemen Honor Roll was suggested and Passed at the meeting. The members are to write what they want to say on an extra sheet of paper, and a committee was elected to write on a sheet of long paper what the members want to say. I he Letter Writing Committee consists of Eleanor Upvall, Catherine Suchevich, Angie Bursic, Mary tomazich and Sally Budich. Not only has Mildred Padar, Secretary of the “Jr. All Americans”, Circle No. 50, Brooklyn, N. Y., been active in all affairs and activities of her group, but more recently she participated in the Juvenile contest of the 30th Anniversary Membership Campaign in which she finished second with a total of 13 new members to her credit. Mildred, also, is an occasional contributor to the Mladinski List. Also, a Suggestion Box was suggested and was passed. This box is for the members to put suggestions and complaints in it, which are to be read and discussed at each meeting. At every monthly meeting we have Bank Night. Mary Mack’s number was drawn for 50c, but she was not present. There is also an extra Bank Night prize for those that are present. Raymond Melle’s number was drawn for 25c, but he was absent. The second number was drawn, Tillie Dole’s number, for 25c and she was present. An Entertainment Committee was elected: Angie Bursic, Jane Please, Alice Buttgerite, Catherine Suchevich, Mary Tomazich, Dolly Youk, Sally Budich, and Eleanor Upvall. A grabbag Yule party was scheduled for Dec. 10, also nam.es for the grab-bag game were selected. Dec. 10 was selected to suit the members and our Manager, who is a war worker. Our Halloween party on Oct. 30 was a big success; it was the best attended party of its kind ever had by our group. Guess Who Quiz: This person is our little Tarzan. He is one of those tough and husky guys that you see in the show and advertised in the papers. He can fight, run and climb, just like Tarzan. If you are stunned at who this person is, watch for the answer in next month’s Mladinski List. Last month’s quiz: Mary Budich. The Veronian Juniors wish much luck and happiness in 1944 to all writers and readers of the Mladinski List. MATILDA DOLES, Secretary 213 Penn St., Verona, Pa. # JUVENILE CIRCLE NO. 27 STRABANE, PA.—Our Juvenile Circle No. 27 is steadily progressing and its activities are many and varied. We meet regularly once each month at the SNPJ hall, and in between the meetings we hold rehearsals and other gatherings. Our Circle held a successful Halloween party and all the boys and girls were masked. I was dressed as a rag lady. We played games and had a nice lunch. I had a very good time, as did the others. By the time these lines are printed, Christmas will have been over. Our Circle is planning to present a playlet. Of course, I am going to be especially good before Christmas so that Santa will bring me all the things I want. This is my second letter to the M. L. Each month when I receive my copy of the magazine, I sit and listen to my mother read the stories and letters to me. I will try to write more next month. RUDY OKLESSON, Circle 27 Strabane, Pennsylvania. * AVELLA CIRCLE NO. 51 AVELLA, PA.—Since I joined the SNPJ and Circle 51, I have had many good times. The members are kind and get along very well. On Dec. 5, we elected new Circle officers. We all had a good time at the Halloween party. We have six bowling teams. Right now we are planning a Christmas program and play. There are many Mildred Padar boys and girls in our Circle. I am very glad I joined this group, and the rest of the members also appreciate what the SNPJ has done for us. We all thank the Society for its wonderful help and encouragement. ROSE BONTURA, Circle 51 Box 425, Avella, Pa. * WARREN CIRCLE NO. 31 WARREN, OHIO.—The regular monthly meeting of Circle 31, held Dec. 6 at the home of our manager, Miss Josephine Smuke, was very interesting. Plans for our Christmas party and program were further discussed and names were exchanged for gifts. Our Christmas party was scheduled for Dec. 19. The officers elected for the year of 1944 are as follows: Elizabeth Zeaken, President; Louise Mla-ker, Vice President; Dolores Recer, Secretary; Dorothy Tomazin, Treasurer. The reporter for the Mladinski List is Frances Smuke and the reporter for the Prosveta is Ann Gabor. Our meetings were changed to each first Sunday of the month at 2 o’clock. We also have a new member, Thomas Banich. Plans for a dance were also discussed and the details will be announced at a later date. Our next meeting was scheduled for Jan. 2, and the second meeting of the new year will be held on Feb. 6. All members are urged to attend. DOROTHY TOMAZIN, Treasurer 2285 Burton St. S. E., Warren, O. * CIRCLE 11 ELECTS OFFICERS FRANKLIN, KANS.—Jolly Kansans Juvenile Circle No. 11 held its December meeting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Shular in Arma. The following members were elected to office: Carl Ulepich, President; John Zibert, Vice President; Frances Slansek, Secretary; Frances Kumer, Treasurer. Publicity Committee, Dorothy Yoger, SNPJers All, Members of "Jolly Kansans", Circle Number 11 Pictured above are the six children of the Frank Ales family of Franklin, Kansas. All are members of SNPJ Lodge No. 92 and Juvenile Circle No. 11. Reading from left to right (front row); Verna, James and Charles; (back row): Frances, Betty and Thomas. Frances Kumer, and Carl Ulepich. Entertainment Committee, John Zibert, Betty and Frances Ales, Lucy Kumer, and Frances Slansek. Representatives for the towns are: Camp 50, John Zibert; Franklin, Betty Ales; Breezy Hill, Carl Ulepich. Prizes at this meeting consisted of a box of candy and cookies and were won by Dorothy Yoger, Rosie Burger, and Frances Slansek. On Dec. 18 at 7:30 p. m. at the Casa Vecchia Hall at Camp 50 we held our Christmas party. John Zibert played a few selections on his accordion and Mr. Shular gave a talk. Then Santa gave presents to all members and everyone received a nice gift. We also had a nice yule tree and it was very nicely decorated. Refreshments were served to all. John Zibert also played his accordion for dancing, and a really good time was had by all. I wish to sincerely thank the SNPJ for the three dollars in war stamps. I am also proud to say that our Circle won the $25 war bonds. We sincerely wish to thank the Society for its generosity. FRANCES SLANSEK, Secretary Box 88, Franklin, Kansas. • JUVENILE CIRCLE NO. 11 MULBERRY, KANS.—On December 18, 1943, Juvenile Circle No. 11 held its annual Christmas party at Camp 50. A large number of members attended the party and we all had lots of fun during the entire program and dance. The party opened with the presence of Old Santa. He told the boys and girls how happy he was to see them, and reminded them to attend the meetings more often. There was much excitement during his visit, especially among the smaller children. Then Johnnie Zibert played several timely pieces on his accordion. After that Santa gave out the presents to the members. Each one waited patiently for his or her present and when received, eagerly opened it to see what they had received. After everyone got a present, refreshments were served. The music for dancing was furnished by Johnnie Zibert on his accordion. Everyone had a swell time and a merry Christmas. CARL ULEPICH, Circle 11 R. R. No. 1, Mulberry, Kans. * EVELETH CIRCLE NO. 48 EVELETH, MINN.—At our last meeting of Circle 48 we had a party and we elected officers. I was elected president. After the meeting we had cookies and candy. I plan to write more often to the ML this year. February is the month in which the Boy Scouts observe their anniversary. I am a second class Scout now. In school we had parties in nearly every class in December. Candy, pop and cookies were the refreshments. The best party was in Auto Mechanics. There we had a pint of icecream, pop, and candy bars. I’ll write more next time, and will tell more especially about our Circle. Circle 48 meets each first Tuesday of the month at 7 p. m. at the SNPJ hall. Our next meeting will be on February 1st. JACOB KOKALY, President 715 N. Court St., Eveleth, Minn. * "THE JOLLY KANSANS" GIRARD, KANS.—“The Jolly Kansans,” Circle No. 11, again held their annual Christmas party at the Casa Vechia Hall in Camp Fifty. The Party was held on Dec. 18 and a fine time was had by all. Santa treated the members with presents, and refreshments were served also. A Program was presented by the members and music was furnished by John Zibert on his accordion, dancing was enjoyed by everybody. Many thanks to those who attended the affair. At this time I wish to thank the headquarters very much for the war stamps given to me for the contributions in the ML and Prosveta in 1943. JENNIE LAMPE, Circle 11 R. R. 3, Box 863, Girard, Kans. * JUVENILE CIRCLE NO. 28 ROUNDUP, MONT.—This is Juvenile Circle ^o- 28 telling about its latest activities. As most °t the other Circles scattered throughout the country, our Circle, too, had a nice Christmas pars' just before yule week. Our Christmas party was held at the home of ".rs. Lea Oset on Friday, December 17. First we ent to the show, then we came back to her ouse. Gifts were exchanged and then we had nch. She served tuna fish sandwiches, ice al?>,m’ co°kies> cocoa, candy, and peanuts. We had a grand time, and wish to thank Mrs. Oset 0r the treat. Our Circle meets once a month, on the second u"day of each month, at the New Moose Hall, ■if °’clock in the afternoon. Our next meeting WiU be on Feb. 13. JEAN BILANT, Circle 28 Box 124, Rounup, Mont. * perfect circle presents program— ELECTS OFFICERS ^ The last big activity of the year for “Perfect” pj e No. 26 was the program presented at the op0*ifei (®59) Christmas Party on Sunday, De-fa 6r A large crowd attended this af- n anc* everyone had a joyous time, w ^le main attractions of the program Wru • V10 one ac^ comedy, entitled “Wilcat jy le>” which was directed by our Juvenile j lrect°r, Michael Vrhovnik. Other outstanding atures were the songs by the Chorus, Snowmans Dance, Ball Drill, The Human Ford and Veral other interesting acts. Short talks were j-j Von by Supreme President Vincent Cainkar and ^°nald J. Lotrich, Secretary of the Pioneer o°dge, this and Santa’s arrival and distribution gifts, all contributed to an excellent and well-led program. Sannemann, Circle Manager, had charge the program, assisted by Ruth Medic. Mr. John Rak helped with the Chorus at rehearsals and Mrs. Frances Rak did all the costuming. In behalf of “Perfect” Circle No. 26, I extend a sincere “thank you” to everyone who helped to make our program and the Christmas celebration a success. At the meeting held on Saturday, December II, officers for 1944 were elected. (Roster of officers elsewhere in this column.) You’ll be hearing more about the Circle’s affairs from me and other members. SYLVIA TROJAR, Sec’y 2803 S. Central Park Ave. Chicago 23, Illinois. * PERFECT CIRCLE NO. 2B CHICAGO, ILL.—On Dec. 11, Perfect Circle No. 26 of the SNPJ had a meeting with 18 mem- Ann Sannemann, Manager of Chicago Circle No. 26 Here we have a fine picture of Ann Sannemann, Manager of “Perfect” Circle No. 26, Chicago, Illinois, who, with her assistant, Ruth Medic, has brought about a number of outstanding improvements since taking charge of the juveniles last summer. Beginning with this issue of the M. L., Mrs. Sannemann takes over the page which, formerly, went under the title of “Let’s Play Games,” prepared by Marge Jeric, Manager of Juvenile Circle No. 38, Cleveland, Ohio, to whom we are very grateful for her splendid work all through 1943. “Fun and Frolic” will be the new title of the page, and it is Mrs. Sanne-mann’s intention of furnishing a variety of old and new ideas on how to have more fun at your Circle meetings, parties, and other affairs. Don’t miss her interesting page starting this issue. Party suggestions are made for three birthdays: Lincoln’s, Washington’s and Valentine’s, something good for each, occasion. Juvenile Director. bers present. We had an election of officers. The results were as follows: Edward Udovich, President; Marian Cervenka, Vice President; Sylvia Trojar, Secretary; Josephine Slansek, Treasurer; Edward Podbevsek, Sergeant-at-Arms. Our Chritsmas program and party on Dec. 19 turned out fine. No activities have definitely been decided on for the coming months. However, we are going to have a Valentine party and are planning and making various articles for our spring bazaar. This is all for now. JOSEPHINE SLANSEK. Treasurer 4933 W. 24th St., Cicero 50, 111. * Juvenile Circle No. 1 Section By Member of Circle No. 1, Walsenburg, Colo. Mrs. Edward Tomsic, Manager First of all, I want to thank the SNPJ for sending me S7.50 in war stamps for writing to Our School Page. Our Circle No. 1 was very pleased to receive a $50 war bond for contributing to the M. L. Everyone in our Circle is going to continue writing to this fine magazine in the coming year. On Dec. 19, the manager, Mrs. E. Tomsic, gave a party for the members that attended the meeting and the party was enjoyed by all. Then as a yule gift the manager gave the mmebers tickets to go to the show. We saw two films, “The Alaskan Highway” and “Lassie Come Home." The show was enjoyed by all that attended. Christmas wasn’t a very pleasing one. Many of the boys weren’t home and the parents didn’t feel like celebrating. A few of the boys were home and had a nice holiday. We all hope that they will have a chance to be home in 1944. Let’s hope that the war will be over before another Christmas comes around. VERNA MAE DUZENACK, Circle 1 * * sj* Here I am writing to this wonderful magazine. I want to thank the SNPJ for the dollar in war stamps I received. I had a nice Christmas but would have had a better one if my brother were home. I got an expansion bracelet and necklace from my brother in the army, and a nice gift from my big brother at home. I got many other things too. I want to say hello to Catherine Gerovac and Milly Padar. I wish Catherine would answer my letter. I want to thank Milly for the yule card. I was sick during the holidays and as a result didn’t have a very pleasant vacation. I hope to hear from my pen pals, both old and new. MILLIE ZORMAN, Circle 1 * * * My sincere thanks to the SNPJ for the four dollars in war stamps I received. They helped fill my stamp album very much. On Dec. 19, we held our regular monthly meeting and elected officers for the coming year. They are: David Zorman, President; Roy Patrick, Vice President; Elizabeth Duzenack, Secretary; Joe Dernovshek, Treasurer. After the meeting was adjourned Mrs. Tomsic gave each member two bars of candy; then we nad pop and doughnuts. We were very glad to have William Tomsic with us; he was home over the holidays from school. Students at the Huefarno County High School were given a vacation from Dec. 17 to Jan. 3. Everyone was glad to get out for such a long vacation. Best regards to one and all. ELIZABETH DUZENACK, Circle 1 * s»s * I am again writing to this fine magazine which I enjoy reading very much. I had a nice Christmas and hope all other members of the SNPJ had one as nice also. I would have liked it much better if my brother who is in the army had been home. During the last three months of 1943 I was a temporary president of our Circle, but now I was elected president at the annual meeting in December. I hope I will be as good a president as our former president was. Anyway, I’ll try my best. DAVID ZORMAN, President. Our Circle is still meeting each third Sunday of the month at Kapusin’s Hall. At the last meeting we did not play any games. After we got through electing officers for the coming year, we drew names for the jackpot. John Dernovshek received the 50c prize. This Christmas was not a very bright one because most of the boys are in the army, many of them overseas. We did not have much candy or nuts or other things. We wanted these things but we had to get along with what we had. I am very glad that I got a dollar for writing to the magazine. I will try to write every month to this fine juvenile monthly. I wish to add that Santa was very good to me this year. I got several nice things and a model airplane which I will fix at school. At school I have been getting good grades. I will close now and write more next time. ALBERT DUZENACK, Circle 1. * I have not written to the ML for a long time, but I resolve now to write more often during the year of 1944. Our Circle No. 1 elected its officers at the December meeting and I was reelected treasurer. On Dec. 20 we had a theater party. My father’s birthday was on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, and mine on Jan. 21, my 14th birthday. The birthdays of my mother, brother and sisters are all in June. I am in the ninth grade at Huefarno County High School and like it very much. Two of my friends that go to high school with me are George March and Joe Malesovich. I hope that by the time 1944 is over the war will be over too. I will try to write more next time. I wish all ML readers and writers lots of luck in 1944. JOE DERNOVSHEK, Treasurer. MLADINSKI LIST SOME OF MLADINSKI LISTS CONTRIBUTORS Reading from left to right (lop row)—Christine Kolar, Circle 47, Johnstown, Pa.; Delma Tomsic, Lodge 57, Black Diamond, Wash.; Frank Lekse, Circle 28, Roundup, Montana (middle row)—Caroline Tavzelj, Lodge 518, Detroit, Mich.; Georgia Močivnik, Lodge 24, Jenny Lind, Ark.; Mitzi Kosernik, Circle 20, Aguilar, Colo, (bottom row)—Zita Bozanic, Lodge 393, Worcester, N. Y.; Michael Ruppe. Circle 4, Milwaukee, Wis.; Verna M. Duzenack, Circle 1, Walsenburg, Colo. Our Pen Pals Write (Naši čilaieljčki pišejo) (Continued on Inside Back Cover) NOTICEABLE IMPROVEMENT Dear Editor:—It doesn’t seem possible that another year has gone by. To me it seems as if only yesterday I was enjoying my vacation. However, I feel that I’ve made a noticeable improvement in my work for the M. L. I remember the times when Mother had to coax me to write to this fine magazine. Now I am almost too anxious to write, and Mother is happy to see the great interest I’ve put into my work lately. Every Monday night I usher at the bingo. Recently, 14 baskets of food worth $35 were given away. Each basket contained a 14-lb. turkey. Money was also given out. I hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas and New Year’s Day. As a proud member of the SNPJ, I remain respectfully yours—Caroline Tavzelj (14), 1425 Mc-Kinstry St., Detroit 7, Mich. (Lodge 518) * GRADUATION RINGS Dear Editor:—I find myself rather busy these school days, but I am trying to contribute to the ML a little anyway. By the time this letter is published the holidays will be over. I hope everyone had a nice time and wish everyone lots of luck in 1944. Late in November I saw many men dressed in red and ready for hunting; at that time the deer season was on. I wish my brother were home to do some hunting. In the same month I attended a wedding party. One of my neighbors, a soldier, got married to a girl from Cleveland. Our Christmas vacation was rather short because our school will be out a little earlier—on May 26. We juniors are going to get our graduation rings this year, as the previous juniors did last year.—Florence Alich (16), Box 607, Aurora, Minn. (Lodge 111) * NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS Dear Editor:—By the time this letter is published, the new year will be well on its way finishing the first month of 1944. Many resolutions were made at the beginning of the new year and it is likely that many have already been broken. One thing is certain. All mothers whose sons are in the service no doubt hope that before the end of this year the war would end victoriously, so that their boys will come home and live in peace once more. However, not everyone will return as some will have given their lives for their country. This year my main resolution is to do my utmost to contribute to the ML again. Even with so much schoolwork, I will try to do something every month that I possibly can. Wishing all SNPJ members lots of luck in 1944, I remain a proud member of the SNPJ:—Zora GosJovich (15), Box 531, Raton, New Mexico. (Lodge 297) HER RESOLUTION Dear Editor:—I haven’t written to this magazine for quite some time, but—as many SNPJ juveniles say—I’ll make this a New Year’s resolution and write to the M. L. By the way, I don’t believe 1 have thanked the SNPJ for the last prize I received, which came on my birthday and really served as a birthday gift as well. I really appreciated it very much and at this time I wish to thank the SNPJ. I also wish to thank all those who have sent me the beautiful postcards. I have already asked why our local juveniles don’t write to this magazine. There are a good many juveniles in SNPJ lodge 223 of Greensburg, and if everyone would write a letter to the ML there would be enough to fill one issue of it. So why doesn’t someone else help to prove that there is a city in existence called Greensburg, Pa.? I hope all members had a fine time during the holidays and to everyone—good luck during the coming year. A proud SNPJ member—Frances Rose Zilko (16), P. O. Box 562, Greensburg, Pa. (Lodge 223) * WILL WRITE MORE OFTEN Dear Editor:—I have been reading the ML for a very long time but I neglected to write to this fine magazine. I will write more often in the future. First, let me introduce myself. I am 16 years old, I have brown eyes and hair, am 5 ft. 7% in. tall and go to the Aguilar Public High School, attending the tenth grade. My favorite sports are skating, dancing and playing baseball. I would like to join the pen pal club and have both girls and boys write to me. Best regards to all.—Paity Bujacich (16), Box 248, Aguilar, Colo. * FOR MORE CONTRIBUTIONS Dear Editor:—Once again we are welcoming in the new year. This year, I suppose everyone has a long list of resolutions, as usual, many of which will soon be forgotten. I hope that everyone will try to contribute more regularly to the M. L. I am enclosing a picture of myself and also a couple of drawings. I have only one regret, however. I wish that the ML would be a little bigger and would come more often. Of course, I realize that this is impossible because the ML is a monthly and very likely will remain a monthly in the future. I needn’t tell you that here in Minnesota, the weather is cold and it snows quite often. In closing I wish everyone lots of luck in the coming year.—Rosemary Panyan (16), 413 Woodbridge Ave., Buhl, Minn. (Lodge 314) * WILL SEND A PICTURE Dear Editor:—By the time this letter is published it will be the end of the first month of 1944. Christmas will be all but forgotten by then and we’ll be again busy with our schoolwork. In school' we go through the daily routine every day. First thing in the morning we have Domestic Arts, then Study Hall, English, Literature, Algebra, etc. Some girls go to Glee Club and some play ball. I am a catcher and the batter 'hit my hand with the bat. It was really sore. I would like to send a picture of myself but I don’t have any. Every time I take a picture the camera breaks or someone takes it from me. I’ll try to make a picture to send it to this magazine as soon as possible. That’s all for now. I’ll try to write more next time.—Josephine Kosernik, Box 199, Aguilar, Colo. (Lodge 381) $ MITZI'S FOUR SUBJECTS Dear Editor:—I’ve been busy with my school work and this explains why I haven’t written to the ML in recent months. I am taking four subjects: American History, Typing, Sociology, and English. I also take Glee Club. I am a 2nd soprana and one of the soloists. For Christmas we presented a cantata. Christmas and New Year’s are gone and we certainly had wonderful times during the holidays. I am cashier at the local theater and I really have fun. The boss is a nice lady, just like one of us. One of my best pals runs the popcorn machine. After I graduate I don’t want to go to college. I’ve always had a longing to be beauty operator, but I still would rather work at something else for a couple of years. I wish to say hello to my Pen pal Dolores Karas. My best wishes for a successful 1944 to one and all. (Enclosed is my picture.)—Milzi Kosernik (17), Box 199, Aguilar, Colo. (Lodge 381) ★ DELMA IS A SERGEANT Dear Editor:—I am again writing to this swell magazine. In school we have just received our report cards, and I got good marks. I am still a member of our school organization, The Traffic Squad. I have been promoted from a corporal to a sergeant. We also have war bond drives; each person that buys a war stamp a week receives a silver star after his or her name; the room that Pledges 100% gets a gold star. My room has received a gold star. A few months ago I received a letter from my cousin, Frank Tomsic, who has been overseas more than a year. I surely was glad to hear from him. And on Dec. 3 I had a birthday party and received many gifts. I would like to say hello to Theresa Turley and Lillian Alexoff. Thanks a lot for the nice postcards. Best regards to all.—Delma Tomsic (15), Box 143, Black Diamond, Wash. (Lodge 57) * "ONCE AGAIN . . Dear Editor:—Once again I will start writing to the ML. I was writing every month until we came to West Virginia; then I somehow neglected to write. I am in the eleventh grade at Kingston High School. I take English, American History, Literature, Typing and Shorthand. I would like to say hello to my grandfather and grandmother, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Grilc, of Arkansas. I would also like to mention that I have an uncle, Pfc. Albin A. Grilc, in North Africa. We can help lick the Nazis and Japs by buying more war bonds and stamps. As I think this letter will be published in February, I’ll try to make a resolution to start writing to this cheerful magazine every month. Best regards.—Ernestine Močivnik (16), P. O. Box 47, Kingston, W. Va. (Lodge 24) * HAS TWO UNCLES IN SERVICE Dear Editor:—I am late in writing this time, but I have been sick for about two weeks. I am much better now and back at school. I have two uncles in the Army Air Corps and I always write to them, too. I’ll close now and I will write more in my next letter to the M. L. I wish to add that we had a grand time at the Christmas party given by our two Juvenile Circles. Justne Sedmak is our leader and I like her very much. Best regards to all.— Romaine Urbas, 421 View Ave., Strabane, Pa. (Circle 19) * THIRD SCRAP DRIVE Dear Editor:—It is likely that this letter will be published in the February issue of the M. L. Anyway, the new year will be here by then and January will be about ready to make room for another month. In our school, the eighth grade boys are collecting scrap for the 3rd scrap drive. My teachers this year are Mrs. Adams, the principal, who teaches mathematics and history; Miss Johnson, our science teacher, and Miss Barlett, the English teacher. I have two brothers in the service. John is in the armored division and is stationed at Fort Knox, Ky., and Leo in the Coast Artillery at Camp Berkley, Calif. I will write more next time. Best regards to all.—Willie Čretnik (13), R. 2, Box 425, Ft. Smith, Ark. (Lodge 24) * ANNIE WILL CONTINUE Dear Editor:—I hope this letter will be published either in January or February. I am glad to say that every issue of the ML in 1943 had an article in it that I wrote. I hope that will stand true for the issues of the ML for the entire year of 1944, as then I will have to stop writing and transfer to the adult class. It seems as though 1943 slipped by in an awful big rush. In that time many obstructive and constructive things have happened. At the present time many homes are lacking a son, husband, or some relative, and I hope that the war will end soon. My brother Johnnie came home on a furlough before Christmas from Ft. Knox, Ky. We were very glad to see him. I wish to express my appreciation to the SNPJ for all the stamps that I have won in 1943. I also wish to mention that I find it very interesting to read the articles that other boys and girls write in the Mladinski List, and I hope they keep it up. Here is hoping all the best of luck and happiness in the year of 1944.—Annie Čretnik (17), R. 2, Box 425, Ft. Smith, Ark. (Lodge 24) WE BOUGHT A JEEP Dear Editor:—I have just finished drawing two pictures to send to the ML and hope they will be published. I am writing this letter to make my contributions more complete. By the time this letter is printed, the year 1944 will be well on its way. I am resolving to send contributions to the ML again. My brothers, sisters and I have been buying war savings stamps and bonds at our school regularly. Last year our school bought a jeep; it was brought to the school and all the children rode in it. This year we are planning to buy a bomber. I am in the sixth grade and like school very much. My teacher’s name is Miss Lodge. Wishing all SNPJ members the best of everything in 1944, I remain a proud SNPJ member— Donna Gostovich (11), Box 531, Raton, New Mexico. (Lodge 297) PLAYING COWBOYS Dear Editor:—One afternoon on my Uncle’s farm, the boys decided to play cowboys and Indians. I asked if I could play and they said girls couldn’t be cowboys. I went in to tell my mother and she came out to tell us some stories of girls of the Wild West. Mother told us about Calamity Jane, who was a famous rider and hunter. She also told us about Annie Oakley, who was known the world over for her marksmanship with a rifle and a pistol. Bob Ann Sannemann, Chicago, as a “cowboy.” After mother was through the boys said I could play, so I went in and put on my cowboy suit. All afternoon we played at conquering the Wi d West and it was one of the best playtimes I ever had—Rob Ann Sannemann (age 9), 2641 S. Mil-laiti Ave., Chicago 23, 111. (Lodge 559, Circle 26.) WILL WRITE OFTEN Dear Editor:—Here I am again writing to you. I stop for a while, then start again. But how eould I be so careless to forget? I think my first New Year’s resolution is to write every month to this fine magazine. By the time this letter will be published, my Christmas will also be over. That’s on January 7 Of course, New Year’s Day is also later, on January 14. To those who observe these two holidays in January, I wish them lots of happiness and luck in the coming year. I was rather disappointed because I haven’t received the November issue of the ML. It must have been mislaid at the post office or lost in the mails. Best regards to all.—Mary Ann Rudich, 163 Baker St., Aliquippa, Pa. (Lodge 122) * IT IS A PLEASURE Dear Editor:—It is indeed a pleasure to write to this fine magazine. Our Circle presented a yule play entitled, “Bang! Goes Christmas.” We had lots of fun rehearsing the play and getting ready for the party. We also had chorus singing, recitations and such, and we all had a grand time. I have two new pen pals, Arvilla Paulson and Sylvia Maljevac, and I want to thank them for writing to me. Recently, my girl friends and I went to see “This Is the Army” and enjoyed it immensely. Another year has gone by and I hope that the issues of the ML for 1944 will be as interesting as they were last year. I remain a proud member —Frances Strozar (14), R.D. 3, Box 245, Johnstown, Pa. (Lodge 82) HER RESOLUTIONS Dear Editor:—At last January has come and I am very glad. A few more months and school will be out again. I made a few New Year’s resolutions, and one of these is: To write an article or letter to the ML every month. I hope I can keep it. I hope everyone had a nice time during the past holidays. It certainly is cold at this time. And it certainly is plenty cold when we walk two miles to school every day. Wishing everyone lots of luck in the coming year, I remain—Christine Kolar (14), 421 Ohio St.. Johnstown, Pa. (Lodge 684) COME ON, GO WAND A! Dear Editor:;—I haven’t written to this magazine for such a long time and I am sorry I didn’t write sooner. The ML is a swell magazine and I wish there were letters in it from Gowanda. Come on, Gowanda! Our Circle meets once a month. In December, we had a Christmas party and we all enjoyed it very much. Various committees were chosen for refreshments, entertainment, etc. At the meeting we drew names from a hat to buy a 25c gift. Also, a playlet was given at the party. Serving on the committees were Lorraine Andolsek, Florence Li- giecki, Frances Bozich, Sophie Bozich, Dorothy Victor, Frances Mende and the writer. In October, the adult lodges gave a party for the Blue Star Mothers. It was a huge success. The mayor of the town spoke. Many members of our Circle had parts in the program. Best regards to all.—Lottie Ligiecki (16), 23 Beech St., Gowanda, N. Y. (Circle 40) * ED WILL WRITE OFTEN Dear Editor:—This is my fourth letter to this wonderful magazine. I am 12 years of age and am in the 7B- grade at Oliver H. Perry School. My classmates and I have a lot of fun in the gym. We play basketball and games. There are about 800 pupils in our school, which was built 17 years ago and is considered one of the modern schools of Cleveland. From now on I am going to write oftener to the M. L. Yours truly—Ed Petrie (12), 1908 Muskoka Ave., Cleveland 19, O. * MICHAEL'S AMBITION Dear Editor:—I haven’t written to the ML for a long time so I’ll try to make up for it now. I am 14 years old, have brown hair, brown eyes, and I am 5 ft. 6 in. tall. I am in 9B at the Boys’ Technical High School in Milwaukee. My subjects are Mechanical Drawing, Gym, Algebra, English, and Electric Shop. The reason that I took the latter was because I hope to get into the radio field and become a radio engineer. I am a member of Circle 4 and its Junior All Star chorus. More next time.—Michael Ruppe Jr. (14), 728 W. Walker St., Milwaukee, Wis. (Lodge 192) * WANTS MORE PEN PALS Dear Editor:—Since I have my pen and ink out, and have answered my pen pals’ letters, I decided to also write to the ML, even though it will be a short letter. In my last letter I asked for pen pals. I received about 15 cards but could not find time to answer them. So, pen pals, if I did not answer your cards, just let me know. I will then be sure to answer them. I also would like to ask for more pen pals, especially from California, Georgia, Florida, etc. Here’s wishing all the SNPJ members lots of luck in 1944.—Catherine Gerovac, Box 83, Marenisco, Mich. (Lodge 323) * AN ALL-SNPJ FAMILY Dear Editor:—With this letter I am enclosing a picture of myself. I am 12 years old and am in the seventh grade. On Nov. 22, we had a lyceurn at our school. There was a magician on the program, and he was very good. I have seven subjects in school. There are nine persons in our family, and all are members of the SNPJ lodge 700. I have a pen pal in Trafford, Pa. Sincerely yours—Frank Lekse, Box 467, Roundup, Mont. * ENJOYS WRITING TO M. L. Dear Editor:—In this letter you will find a picture of myself that was taken when I was in the sixth grade. I am now in the eighth grade. I haven’t changed much, only grown taller. I enjoy writing to the ML. It is also worth the while to any juvenile who takes advantage of the opportunity. Everyone likes to receive the ML and see his or her contributions published. So be sure and write. I assure you it is a great opportunity. Best regards.—Georgie Močivnik (12), P. O. Box 47, Kingston, W. Va. (Lodge 24) * GLORIA'S "FIRST" Dear Editor:-—By the time this letter is published Christmas will be over. I hope everyone had a nice time during the holidays. This is my first letter to the M. L. I am 10 years old and am in the fifth grade. I am 4 feet and 9 inches tall, weigh 83 pounds, and I have brown eyes. I like to attend the Circle meetings. Happy New Year to all.—Gloria Wooten (10), Roundup, Montana. (Lodge 700) * AGNES' "FOURTH" Dear Editor:—This is my fourth letter to this wonderful magazine. I am enjoying my freshman year at good old Union High. School is pretty good with me except for my grades. Our Circle held a dance Dec. 11, a party on the 16, and the Ladies’ Club had a party on the 18th. I am very glad I joined the lodge. Everyone should participate in bringing in new members. We all had lots of fun during the holidays. In our school we are selling war stamps and we have already bought three jeeps. Happy New Year to all.—Agnes Kavčič (14), Box 205, Midway, Pa. (Lodge 89) * HELPING THE WAR EFFORT Dear Editor:—I am writing this letter in December, therefore, it is likely that it will be published in the February issue of the M. L., not in the January issue. This is also an opportune time, at the beginning of the New Year, to ask ourselves a pertinent question: What are we doing to help win this war? Everyone knows that the soldiers alone can’t do it. We must all help by buying war bonds and stamps as well as by speeding the production of war material. When we buy bonds we supply our boys with ammunition so they can fight our enemies. We must all help in the war effort of our country. The more war bonds and stamps that we buy, that much sooner will the war be over, spelling Victory for the Allies. Our schools are cooperating 100% with the government, so are our lodges and other organizations. But we can do still more, individually and collectively. I am a member of the SNPJ and of Circle 43. I am also the recording secretary of Circle 43. To all SNPJ juveniles, lots of good luck in 1944.— Josephine Powell (14), 937 N. Holmes Ave.„ Indianapolis 8, Ind. (Circle 43) * HAS 36 PEN PALS Dear Editor:—The December issue of the ML was very interesting, as were all previous numbers. Through the ML I have received letters from more than 36 pen pals, and I wish to have more pen pals. I wish to say hello to Albena Finco, Dorothy Ujcich, Theresa Turley, William Kroper, Sophie Hrast, Rosemary Panyan, Caroline Tavzelj, Greta Yaugh, Carol Tanslan, and all others. In school I am quite busy (who isn’t, anyway). I am now taking trombone lessons and Spanish guitar. Greta Yaugh and I play a Hawaiian guitar together, and Father plays the accordion. Boy, it sounds pretty! Bill Yaugh was home on furlough for a few days, and we all have enjoyed his visit. My new hobby now is collecting snapshots of pen pals and friends. Pen pals, will you please send me your snapshot if you haven’t already? I want to thank Albena Finco for the souvenir she had sent me. My favorite radio programs are: Eddie Cantor, Mr. and Mrs. North, People Are Funny, etc., etc. I had lots of fun during the holidays. In school we had a play and I was in it. We also had a party at Red Men’s Hall and I sang. My best regards to all and lots of luck in 1944 to everyone.—Ethel Swilko, R. D. 2, Box 346, East Brady, Pa. * HELLO FROM FLORIDA Dear Editor:—I would like to say hello to all of my pen pals. I’d like to have some boys as pen pals as all of mine are girls. I will answer all letters as soon as possible. I don’t have much time, as I help my Dad on the farm, but I get it done. I have three teachers, Mrs. Windborn, Mrs. Sheldon, and Mrs. Gautier. My subjects are history, geography, mathematics, English, study hall, and activity period, which includes Junior Red Cross. I go to the Five Oak Street School at New Smyrna Beach. I live in Samsula, nine miles away. I am in the seventh grade. The senior class presented its play Dec. 10. The name of it was “House of Horrors.” It was very good. We’ve received our report cards twice so far and my grades are as follows: geography, 97; history, 96; mathematics, 100; English, 99. I’m pretty proud of these grades. By the time this letter is published Christmas will long be passed. It is a week before Christmas, but I have already received my present—a piano. It is getting pretty cold now. The temperature has already dropped to almost freezing. It has not hurt any of our vegetables so far. I will exchange post cards with any one who would like to do so. Best regards to all.—Joan C. Benedict (12), Rte. 1, Box 120, Samsula, New Smyrna Beach, Florida. (Lodge 603) • ZITA IS A VERY BUSY GIRL Dear Editor:—The weather is really cold around here. To think we even were snowed in and didn’t go to school for two days this month (December). At our Christmas program I first played viola, then I sang, and finally I played trombone in the brass quartette. This year I’ve been terribly busy. Besides playing in band, orchestra and chorus, I am president of 4-H, am in Student Council, member of Sportsmanship Brotherhood, and am on the staff of our school paper entitled “The Mirror.” You can readily see that I am really a terribly busy girl. I also serve as waitress in the school cafeteria besides one other girl. We serve hot lunches, dip ice cream and sell milk. I still use my art in leisure time and I also play at the piano. I also am a member of the Senior Intramural Sports Team. Happy New Year to Lillian Paleher, June Ribic and each and every SNPJ member and ML reader. Have patience you members—Violetta T., Annie C., and Mary Paling. I’ll write you soon. I’ll surprise you with a long letter. Good luck to you all.—Ziia Bozanich (16), Worcester, New York. (Lodge 393) * BUSY WITH HOME WORK Dear Editor:—I’m very sorry I didn’t write sooner but I’m just a little too busy with homework. I would like to say hello to Ralph Tau-cher, Josephine Ruparcic, Rose Marie and Dorothy Ujcic. Ralph and Josephine are my pen pals and Rose Marie and Dorothy are my cousins. I would like to have some pen pals from all over the states. I’ll answer all letters promptly. I would like to hear from Rose Marie. I received many Christmas cards and manv gifts. I would like to thank all who sent me yule cards. My brother Rudy is in Utah and is a sergeant. He was on a ten day furlough recently. By brother Johnnie is in Africa. We received many Christmas cards from him through the V-mail system. My birthday is on Jan. 18. I remain a proud SNPJer.—Rose Ujcic, 5410 Carnegie St., Pittsburgh 1, Pa. * MARY'S FAREWELL NOTE Dear Editor:—Writing again— and probably for the last time for I’ll be transferred to the adult department—I wish to say that I have really enjoyed this wonderful magazine. I am now a senior at the Snowden High School where I’m taking a commercial course. We played our first basketball game and lost, but I am still hoping for a swell season. In my spare time (Saturdays and holidays) I work at the local postoffice and at the present (yule season) we are more than busy. Many of our students are leaving for the armed forces. I’m hoping that this war will soon be over, with us victorious. I’ll close with a sad feeling for my last letter, but leave my space for some other member, who, I hope, will make better use of it than I did. Good luck and best wishes to everyone.—Mary Slrim-lan (17), Box 24, Library, Pa. * "I LIKE THE ML VERY MUCH" Dear Editor:—This is my second letter to the M. L. I like this magazine very much. Our Circle had a bingo party, and the cost of each game was one cent. Many beautiful gifts were given away as prizes. We are going to have a play for Christmas, songs and speeches by the members. By the time this letter is published the program will be over. At the last meeting we accepted three new members. We are planning a New Year’s party. We are also thinking of having a basketball team. At our last meeting we had a free bingo party for all the members who attended the meeting.—Mildred Jane Posega (150, Box 117, Strabane, Pa. (Lodge 138) * JUST A FEW JOKES Dear Editor:—Here are a few jokes to be published in the M. L. John: “Where is the best place to buy a smoking jacket?” Joe: “At a fire sale.” Mike: “What did one wall say to the other?” Tike: “I’ll meet you at the corner.” Willie: “What did the ceiling say to the wall?” Millie: “Hold me up; I am plastered.” Tommy: “Why does an Indian wear a band around his head?” Frankie: “To keep his wigwam, (wig warm).” And here is another one. Billy: “What did one boy say to the other?” Bob: “I dont’ know; what did he say?” Billy: “Old age pension. Get it?” Bob: “No.” Billy: “You will when you’re 65.” Best regards to one and all and lots of luck to all in ’44.—Dolores Udovic (14), Rte. 1, Box 90, La Salle, 111. (Lodge 573) * AT LONG LAST Dear Editor:-—Surprised? I’ll bet you are. I haven’t written for such a long time. I am sending a picture of myself, taken in school this year (1943). I take the following subjects: English, history, shorthand, typing and bookkeeping plus physical education. We received our class rings. On Dec. 10, our junior class had a skating party and made $9.30 clear profit. Finally came Christmas. Santa brought me what I wanted. Don’t take me seriously about Santa, after all I’m 16, not 6. I got a pair of white ice skates and socks and plenty of other things. I had a very good time. I want to say hello to all my pen pals. I would still like to have more pen pals between 16 and 18. I remain a proud member of the SNPJ. I’ll try to write more often.—Helen Mance (16), 14 Grant St., Cokeburg, Pa. * WANTED: LEAVES OF TREES • Dear Editor:—I want to thank the SNPJ for the Victory pin which I recently received. It is very nice. And I want to thank all my pen pals for the Christmas cards, especially John Reickel. I would like to receive leaves of trees from any state and in return I will send a post-card. One of my 1944 resolutions is to write a letter to the ML every month. I received many Christmas gifts, among them was a war bond. I now have seven of them. Many people around here had the flu. I had it three times. I was in the hospital in November to have my appendix out. Everybody was kind to me and I received many gifts. My birthday is in February, also my father’s. Rosemary Panyan draws very nicely. I hope she keeps up the good work. I don’t see many letters from Wisconsin, but the juveniles from Minnesota and Pennsylvania are dqing their part. I would like to receive cards from any state. Best regards to all.—Dolores Malnar (10), Willard, Wis. (Lodge 198) * BETTY'S "SECOND" Dear Editor:-—Here I am writing to this fine magazine. This is my second letter. I have thrpr pen pals, and their names are Mary J. Kordan, Angelina Barun, and Betty Jane Zgainer. I wish to say hello to them. I know two people who write to this magazine, namely, Dolores and Buddie Malnar. Well, I guess I’ll sign off for this month. Regards to all.—Beity Luzovec (11), Rte 2. Greenwood, Wis. * MILDRED WAS SURPRISED Dear Editor:—I was very much surprised when I received the letter from the M. L. I want to thank the SNPJ for the two dollars in war stamps, that I received two days before Christmas. That was one of my nicest presents. Santa was good to me and we had a very nice vacation. By the time this letter is published it will be February and we will start our second half of the school year. Best regards to all.—Mildred Crelnik (14), R. 2, Box 425, Ft. Smith, Ark. (Lodge 24) * HELLO TO ALL PEN PALS Dear Editor:—I just came home from the store and I saw my sister writing to the M. L. I knew it was time for me to write, too. We had a very nice Christmas. But I would have liked it better if my sister, my niece, and my brother-in-law were with us. He is stationed in Camp Claiborne, La. I wish to say hello to my pen pals Bobby Bedey, Joan Powell, Louise Briselli. I wonder why Bobby and Louise never write to me any more. Best regards to one and all.—Buddy Malnar (8), Willard, Wis. (Lodge 198) * MY VICTORY PIN Dear Editor:—I want to write this letter especially to thank the SNPJ and the ML for the one-dollar war stamp and Victory pin. Speaking of the Victory pin, I would like to add that I never possessed a better pin. I would like to congratulate all of the winners of the achievement awards. I am sure they all deserve it. A friend of a magazine which I enjoy reading—the Mladinski List. Best regards to one and all.-—Tommy Gornick (12), 331 Third St., Trafford, Pa. (Lodge 629) * WAKE UP, MINNESOTA! Dear Editor:—First of all, I want to thank the SNPJ for the beautiful Victory pin I’ve received, and I wear it proudly. I would like to have a pen pal from Rhode Island and Maryland who will exchange picture postcards. I have read the ML thoroughly each month but I see there aren’t many letters from Minnesota. Come on, let’s wake up and write to this fine magazine. Let’s show everybody what we can do. I am closing with best regards to all.—Jean Kos-merl (14), Star Rte. 3, Box 319, Hibbing, Minn. (Lodge 125) * NOT MUCH TO SAY Dear Editor:—I haven’t written to the ML for a long time, but I have been reading the magazine every month. But there isn’t much to say anyway. When this letter is published it will be after Christmas. I hope everyone had a nice time. People are saying that there isn’t much to pick from, you can’t get this or that. They don’t realize how thankful they should be to be where it is quiet and nice. If they would only stop to think of the people in different places where there is so much suffering, hunger and destruction, then they would appreciate all the things they have here. Well, here is hoping to hear from my pen pals soon. Best wishes to all.>—Phyllis McKinley. 402 Ohio St., Johnstown, Pa. * HER FIRST SCORE: 85 Dear Editor:—I 'hope this letter of appreciation for the wonderful surprise I received just before Christmas will appear in the February issue. It was a dollar war stamp which means a great deal toward my war bond, and in ten years I’ll have $25. This is quite a bit, and it means a lot to each one of us. The other day I went bowling for the first time. I enjoyed it very much for I came out with a score of 85. I thought that was very good for a beginner. I hope to start the new year right by writing to the ML the full 12 months. I hope I can keep this promise good. Signing off as your pen pal—Mary Knafelc, 13312 St. James Ave., Cleveland 11, Ohio. * FIRST LETTERS Mildred, Sabol, 58 Newport Loc., Ironwood, Mich., is 13 years of age and in the eighth grade at the Newport School. Her subjects are history, literature, spelling and mathematics. This is her first letter to the ML and she is “very pleased to be writing to such a fine magazine. She has three brothers in the service, one in the Sea-bees, one in the Army Air Corps, and one in the Navy. Her hobbies are collecting post cards and insignias. Mildred is 'a member of SNPJ lodge 323 and would like to have pen pals. Frank Rosman, Strabane, Pa., writes his first letter to the ML, and tells us that he is eight years old and in the third grade in school. His little sister and he belong to Circle 27, attend the meetings and have a good time. His mother often reads ML letters to him that the girls and boys write from others states. Frankie will write again some other time. Dolores Rescer, 2495 Burton St., Warren, Ohio, tells us in her first letter to the ML that she has been in Circle 31 for four months, and she likes it very much. She adds: “I would like to thank the members of Circle 31 for their fine cooperation in electing me secretary. I will try to do my best to uphold the duties of secretary.” Dolores is a member of SNPJ lodge 321. Willaim Rezin, Franklin, Kanss, is 15 years old and this is his first letter to the ML. He also sent a poem. He writes: “I read the ML every month and like to read every article in it. The poem is about my father who passed away Aug. 19. He was loved by all who knew him, and he was a good father to us children. He is sadly missed by all who knew him.” Our sincere sympathy to William and his family in their bereavement. Louise Petrovič, 683 E. 159th St., Cleveland 10, Ohio, is 5 ft. 2 in. tall, weighs 112 lbs., has greenish blue eyes and light brown hair. She is in the seventh grade, and this is her first letter to the M. L. Her hobby is writing letters and she would like to have pen pals from Montana, California, Oklahoma, Georgia, etc., promissing to answer all letters promptly. She concludes: “I would like to say hello to La Vern Alt, Catherine Bujacich, and Helen Krmpotich. I will try to write to this wonderful magazine every month.” Joseph A. Jereb, 92 Lincoln Ave., N. Irwin, Pa., writes his first letter to the M. L. There are five in his family and all belong to the SNPJ lodge 63 at Raton, Pa. He is 11 years old and in the sixth grade. He sells papers at the Irwin Railroad Station every morning. His school has bought two jeeps and there are only 125 students in his school. They are trying to get the Minute-man Flag and the Rattlesnake, too. His brother Marion is in the Army, attending the University of Mississippi. His brother Carl is 18, and they all like to read the M. L. _ Frances Jane Vodopivec, 489 Linwood St., McKeesport, Pa., is 11 years old and this is her first letter to the M. L. She writes: “I surely enjoy the poems and letters in the M. L. I wish I could get some pen pals, and I wish they would send me their pictures, and I’d send them mine. Our school has a football team. We played the Lincoln School and we won 42 to 13 the first time and lost 13 to 14 the second.” Gertrude Abramovich, R. F. D. 1, Box 135, Adah, Pa., tells in her 1st letter that she likes to read the letters and articles published in the M. L. She is 13 years old and lives in Gates, Pa. Her hobby is collecting picutres and post cards. She has three brothers and one sister. One of her brothers is in the U. S. Maritime Service, and her sister and one brother are employed in Cleveland, Ohio. • “I want to say hello to my pen pal Florence Ma-loves in Cleveland. I would like to have more pen pals from any state.” Mary Ann Bell, Box 185, Columbia, Utah, is 12 years old and is in the seventh grade at the Sun-nysdie Junior High School, which is about four miles from Columbia. This is her first letter to the ML and she would like to have some pen pals. “We had snow for Christmas, and I got some very beautiful gifts. I have two pets, a cat and a dog, both are black and white. The dog’s name is Spot, the cat’s name is Puff, and I have lots of fun with them. I want to say hello to my pen pal Frank Bavdek and I wish he would write soon. I will try to write to the ML every month.” Gloria Fratoni, Box 316, Avella, Pa., writes her first letter to the M. L. She is 10 years old and a new member of the Juvenile Circle 51. She is very glad she joined. “We have lots of fun at our Circle gatherings and the meetings are very interesting. We had a play for Thanksgiving and we had one also for Christmas. We also have bowling teams, and every Thursday we have Children’s Day. When we do not bowl we play games. We all take turns setting pins.” WORD SQUARE Can you fill in all of the spaces in the squares below? All of the words across will be the same as those going down, in the corresponding numbers: 1 1 1 1 1 2| 3| 4 I . ... I 1 2 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 | | 1 1 1. Good fortune. 2. Situated above. ANSWERS to Word Square: 1. Luck. 2. Upon 3. Heart. 4. Joint. 3. Core. 4. Knee. ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON JUST FOR FUN PAGE: Abe Lincoln: Log cabin, Kentucky, Feb. 12, 1809, Ann Rutledge, Mary Todd, Emancipation Proclamation, Gettysburg Address, Shot, April 14, 1865, Ages. Kwizzers: 1—There are many, amongst the most common being Osage, Cherokee, Nogales, Tucson, Oshkosh, Paw Paw. 2—Major. 3—Food for a soldier for one day. 4—Lincoln, Neb., Madison, Wisconsin, Jefferson City, Mo. 5—True. Brain Teasers: 1—Mr. Cordell Hull is Sec’y of State. 2—Combustible is misspelled. 3—The Yanks are baseball players. 4—Sonja Henie is known for her ice-skating. 5—A frizette is a small strand of hair, worn as a bang. Sing-a-Tune: 1—We’re All Americans; 2—Star Spangled Banner; 3—White Christmas; 4—Moonlight Sonata; 5—Tiger Rag. Problem Quiz: 1-17-19-21-23. 2—15 lbs. each. Aniealers The fur of the anteater is made up of very dense, stiff hair, which is very valuable to him in baffling his enemies. The skin is of such thickness and so tough that none but the largest beasts have teeth long enough to pierce it. The great anteater has no teeth whatever. AIRPLANE Place on the wall a large map of the world. Give each player a small airplane cut from paper, with his name on it and a pin in it. A large central spot is marked on the map for the take-off. The players are lined up at the opposite side of the room, and several obstacles, such as chairs and small tables, are placed in the center of the room. Give each player a minute to study the location of the take-off on the map and the obstacles. He is then blindfolded. He must then cross the floor without touching any of the obstacles, and pin his airplane on the map as far as possible from the take-off. If he touches an obstacle, it is a crash, and he is out of the race. If he pins his airplane in water on the map, it is considered lost. The pilot of the longest flight wins. This game is played a great deal like “Pin the Tail on the Dun-key” with the excitement of a few added details. Be Poliie To be polite is to do and say the kindest things in the kindest way. SWEEPING THE WALK LET’S MAKE 1944 OUR BEST YEAR Last year 436 of the more than 16,500 juvenile members of the SNPJ contributed one or more compositions to the Mladinski List, 105 of whom received special recognition and prizes. While this record may be considered satisfactory, we expect even better results in 1944. However, to achieve our goal, we must have more cooperation from our juvenile members—and their parents, too. This means you Johnny, Mary, Frankie, Helen, Tony, Frances and all the rest of the boys and girls who have neglected the pages of the Mladinski List. Step forward and take your place alongside of other active members who have formed the useful habit of writing or drawing. The Mladinski List is intended mainly for your education and enjoyment, so send in your letters, stories, poems, drawings, pictures, etc., for publication. • In 1944, the Fortieth Anniversary Year of the SNPJ, the Mladinski List wants— • A much bigger circulation through enrollment of new members. . . • A greater number of juveniles to form the habit of reading it. . . • A large increase in writers and more frequent contributions from each one. . . • An improvement in quality of contents and, by all means, more originality. . . • More interesting reports of Lodge and Circle activities, special events and happenings of human interest appeal. . . • More parents to take interest and encourage their children to participate. in its numerous educational advantages. . . • More Lodges and Circles to have juvenile reporters for the Mladinski List—and the Prosveta. Their meetings, social events, programs and other activities furnish an almost endless chain of valuable news material. • As inducement for the old and new cohtribulors, attractive prizes again will be awarded by the SNPJ, quarterly and at the end of the year. Read the rules inside. • Opportunities for new achievement and reward awaits every juvenile member who strives for improvement. • Let's make 1944 our best year! MICHAEL VRHOVNIK. Juvenile Director.