JUVENILE SECT10N OF "NAPRE DEK CLEVELAND, OHIO, JUNE 21st, 1939 ® Mr J**™ 0 ™ By MICHAEL VRHOVNIK, Director of Vrtec and English Speaking Lodges OUR BOVS AND GIRLS What are our boys and girls doing in towns and cities where m y TOUR OF THE SSPZ has taken me during the past eight weeks? Are they growing more active and stronger in member- ship? Do thev hoid meetings regularly, sluge programa, dances, picnics and such, or are they for the most part active in name only? Frankly, the answer is YES and NO. I’d like to paint beautiful word pictures of the things I ha ve seen, people I’ve met and their activities, but I’m afraid just beautiful pic¬ tures would not be a true story of what I h a ve seen in my trav- els for I have found a great deal of misery, sorrovv, want and utter lulplessness even in the best of communities where our boys and girls live . . . and on the other hand, I’ve seen a surprising amount of joy, happiness, contentment, celebrations of one kind and another in some of the poorest and most forsaken places. But... Enough \vritten about reali- ties that tear away the silver lining. This is the season for outings, picnics, sports and games of ali kinds. Vacation days are bere for weeks to come, and of ali months this is JUNE, our SSPZ JUVENILE MONTH when celebrations and a variety of entertainments are held throughout the Organiza- tion in honor of our boys and girls. The reason I know they’re celebrating is because I’ve been around; l’ve celebrated with them and had a wonderful time aieeting them and getting ac- ^uainted with their mothers and fathers, their older brothers and sisters and friends. It’s really b «en a lot of fun and I’ve en- j°yed it, immensely. °ur boys and girls in general are ar nbitious and vvilling work- ers > especially, where leaders are at the helm with ability to lrec t and supervise, having go°d judgment of child persona- ^| es and behavior. Good leader- s 'P is essential to the success °f our Vrtec Units, but it is •■ ast as important and necessary 0 have youngsters under one’s Graduates With Honors direction who crave action and who are not lazy or afraid to try something new or shoulder responsibility when called upon to share the burden of work... It’s time I told you a few things about our boys and girls, so here goes... A week a go last Saturday, the Lodge and Vrtec Unit at Center held a picnic, program and dance at a nearby beach, which, in spite of the heavy rainfall .just as the program was about to start, weting the grounds around the pavilion and the re- freshment stands, was attended by several hundred people. It was a fine demonstration of cooperation, that pull-together- spirit, and the boys and girls, who presented the program of plays under the able direction of sister Elizabeth Knafelc, were a treat for the young and old. I saw and heard my old friends, Jimmy Peternel, Rose Šubic, Charlie Hrovat, Johnny Alexan- der, Helen Knafelc, and ali the Oblock boys and many, many others up on the stage, and it was mighty pleasing to see them again even though Jimmy failed to appear in his former role as a “vvhistler,” or Rose as a Sing¬ er, or Helen as the guitar solo- ist, or Johnny with his golden voicc... But I did see them ac* like grown-ups and I did have the pleasure of hearing a juve- nile orchestra of eleven pieces thrill the audience with a score or more of well selected num- bers. This organization of mu- literary honor roll (APRIL AND MAY 1939) Valeria Artel ..Outlookers Florence Kmet . Hiawathans Marie Ermence . Balkan Jrs. Fredy Basliel . Outlookers Andrew Elersich. Spartan Jrs. Rudolph Milharčič - Jugoslavs Eleanor Ster .- Outlookers Agnes Tekstar .vrtec n” 72 srss-===ir£—: Martin Dragan . Ton * B * yt i;. Rainbows Agnes Lesjak . ys Sr:::::::«! :::: ££ j- Edward Udovicli . Margaret Ohojak - * No . 77 Helen Knafelc .. Rai nbows FranC ?f :“ber .." 'Balkan Jrs. Jeanette Gaber .. sicians is known as the Harding Grade School Orchestra, whose instructor, I learned, is a Mr. Cutter, the Township mušic su- pervisor. He was there in person waving the baton, and in the orchestra were two and, maybe, three of our Vrtec members, Johnny Alexander blowing away like an artist on his cornet and Helen Knafelc strumming tune after tune on her guitar... I’d walk miles to see the same pro¬ gram. .. Oh, yes, our movies,. too, were very much enjoyed. It was a grand get-together and I wish more such events were planned, not so much for the profit, but more for the good times and fun. Now, I don’t want you to get me wrong and think that Center is the only plače where our boys and girls performed in brilliant style. I was equally thrilled at Sygan the second night of mv tour, where a program of vari- ety acts and comedy entitled, “His First Shave”, was enacted. The play, itself, was a marvel- ous performance, more so since it was their first attempt at this type of entertainment. Much credit must be given to sister Julia Kramzer, Adminis- tratrix, and Antonia 0’korn for their coaching and arrangement of the program and to the boys and girls, who spent many hours of their time rehearsing it. The čast included Frank Dolinar, Margaret Eržen, Agnes Visni- kar, Hilda Dolence and the lad who played the part of Derek Morton... Then there were the individual numbers, songs by a duet and a quartet, the latter nearly bringing the roof down... Junior Krek, cock-sure of him- self and with a confident smile on his lips, swayed the crowd with his accordian — He’s plen- ty good and if he doesn’t make a living by playing an accordian, he’s at least going to derive a lot of pleasure out of life play- ing tunes of ali kinds, remem- bering the old ones and learning the neiv as fast as they are written... Yes, you can plače the boys and girls from Sygan right along side of the group from Center with a large, bright Continued on page 5 Among this year’s large grad- uation class at the Canonsburg High School was Lillian Kos- mach, secretary and treasurer of the Challenger Juniors of Strabane. It was in the spring of the year, four years ago, that this Vrtec was organized and it was at that time that Lillian took up the duties of this Office and ever since has faithfully and loyally served the Societv, contributing much of her time, energy and ideas to the progress of the Challenger Juniors. Lillian Kosmach During her high school term, Lillian not once failed. to attain the select group, winning high honors in each of the four years. She was picked by her teachers as one of the students most likely to succeed in life and at the present time, al- though out of school only a few vveeks, is temporarily em- ployed at the Pennsylvania Training School at Morganza, where she has already proven her worth as an Office worker, doing typing and shorthand. Her ambition, hovvever, is to go on to a finishing school where she can specialize in sec- retarial work and later would like to do a lot of traveling. The subjects which interest her most are those pertaining to government, economics and so- ciology. We join with her many friends in offering sincerest congratulations and loads of best wishes and good health in her journey through life. A member. Juveniie Section of “Napredek June 21st, 1939 AAGE 2 Chicago, 111. — Well, here I am again rather late, but better late than never, with the news of the Second Vrtec Festival held May 14, 1939. It was a variety program featuring In¬ dianapolis, Milvvaukee, and Chi¬ cago Vrtec units. Presented by the units were dance, vocal and instrumental numbers and two plays. Indi¬ anapolis Vrtec presented “Fest Fant” and the Chicago unit pre¬ sented “Dve teti.” Ali numbers were very well performed and were enjoyed by the audience very much. After the program a delicious supper was served follovved by dancing to the mu¬ šic of Edward Petan in the up- per hali and Gradišek and Omer¬ za playing in the lower hali. It was a great day for the SSPZ juveniles and for their parents and friends. We hope to have a bigger and better success for the next festival. I also want to take this opportunity to thank ali vvho helped to make this fes¬ tival possible. Wilma Gratchner * * * Chicago, 111. — The last meet- ing of Rožnik Jrs., 160, was held on Sunday, May 21, 1939 and quite a few members were present. The date of meetings was changed from the third Sunday to the third Friday so that the members will have their Sundays free. A girls’ baseball team has been organized but the rain has kept us from practic- ing. Helen Skoff received a 25c attendance award. After the ad r journment of the meeting, re- freshments were served and games were played. Our next meeting will be held Friday, June 16 at 7:30 p. m. at 2334 So. Ridgeway Ave. Ali members be present because after the meeting we will have a taffy-pull. So don’t forget to attend. Wilma Gratchner, Sec’y Vrtec No. 160 Chicago, 111. — I promised to be back with more news about the Vrtec. Cultural Festival, so here it is: Our festival held in Chicago on MotheFs Day, proved to be a success. I want to thank the Jugoslavs, No. 9 from Indiana¬ polis, the Balkan Juniors, Vr¬ tec 33 from Milwaukee, the Trail Blazer Juniors 139, and Rožnik Juniors 160, for parti- cipating in this event. The first number on the pro¬ gram was a speech given by the president of our Federation, Mr. Anton Zaitz. The boys and girls from In¬ dianapolis put on a play in which t,hey again showed us their ability in acting and tal- ents. Johnny “Non-resistable” Praprotnik did a great j ob as the wife of Frank Mivec and the mother of Frank Zakrajšek, the baby. Marion Kronovsek, as the aunt of Frank Mivec, and Wil- ma Mergole as his sister also showed their talents. Leo Kobus and his Beer Barrel Polka was another one of the “Jugoslavs” talented members. The girls quartet and Betty Jane Bernik from Milvvaukee were also very entertaining. (Keep up the good work, Betty Jane, and you’ll get somevvhere in the near future.) The Trail Blazers also put on a few interesting numbers. Rožnik Juniors put on the play “Dve Teti,” vvhich includ- ed Angeline Možina, Wilma Gratchner arfd myself. Mary Lou Gratchner and Mary Jo Townsley did two very niče dance numbers. Edvvard Udo- vich, your “Roaming Reporter” made a great hit with everyone. He sang and played the guitar. Selections were “The Umbrella Man,” and the “Yellow Rose of Texas.” Ali this added up gives you an idea of what the pro¬ gram was like. Movies “Slovenia in 1938” were shovvn after the program. Eats and refreshments vvere served in the lovver hali after the movies. Dancing follovved until tvvelve o’clock. I hope those who attended had a good time, because I knovv I did. Angeline Rokavec Vrtec No. 160 INTRODU C ING OUR MEMBERS Chicago, 111. — On November 3, 1923, Mrs. Stanley Možina gave birth to a 7-pound,. blue- eyed baby, none other than our own Angeline Možina. Angeline is quite a young lady novv. She should be, she has already passed her 15th year, and has a fevv more steps to climb, before she’ll be “svveet sixteen.” An¬ geline is a sophomore at the Harrison High School. She en- jo.vs sports such as baseball, svvimming and dancing. Especi- ally vvhen the orchestra rings out vvith the “Beer Barrel Pol¬ ka.” Anytime you vvant to make good vvith Angeline, just put a plate of “krvave klobase.” in front of her, and you’re her best friend. Angeline’s ambition is to become a typist. As I see my time is getting short I’ll have to type avvay, till next month. Adios, * Tek P. S.—Next month I vvill in- troduce to you Miss Bernice Žlogar. Soc k! Physics Prof.: “Is heat al- vvays generated vvhen tvvo bodies in motion come together?” Študent: “No, sir. I hit a guy yesterday and he knocked me cold.” Courage, the Trne lest of Character By Helen M. Kastelic Delmont, Pa. — The best defi- nition of courage that I knovv of is: Courage is a vvillingness to risk everything in a game vvith no certainty of revvard. Since vve are having such a complex situ- ation in Europe at the present time, vve hear many people talk- ing vvar. We sometimes hear an argument based on the grounds that vvar is necessary to bring out the heroic element in youth. But there are many places in our daily routine of life vvhere courage is demanded and vvhere it can be exercised. The day vvill come, sooner or later, vvhen every person vvill find s o r r o vv and tragedy mingled vvith joy. Some day our most beloved friends vvill pass to the great beyond. When that day comes, it is not the part of courage to dodge it or circum- vent it, or to expect someone else to stand the shock for us, but rather to carry the grief on our ovvn shoulders. A child should be taught to meet little annoyances bravely, and in later years, though tra- gedies and sorrovvs may shake him, he vvill begin to regain his poise and go through vvhatever he has to encounter. A story is told about Abraham Lincoln as he once met a young lad on his vvay to school. After a bit of conversation, Lincoln left vvith him this parting word, “On your vvay, my boy, and remember that every per¬ son must skin his ovvn cat.” There is no halfway position that vve can take in the face of difficulty. Either vve go dovvn before it or vve stand up and face it courageously. .As Frederick K. Stamm vvas traveling through Gary, Indi¬ ana, a fevv summers ago, he thought of a little crippled newsboy vvho always sold his papers at the Street corner there. This cripple, years ago, had given his life to save the life of a young girl unknovvn to him. He had vvillingly undergone great suffering in the belief that he might save her, hoping of course to save his ovvn life, but vvhen he savv he vvas to die, he said cheerfully, “I have been of some use after ali.” Several days later, a multi- tude of admirers vvent to pay their last rites to him. Fifteen thousand mourners stood thei*e listening and singing, “Nearer My God To Thee.” Little did they realize that the little crip¬ pled newsboys had brought them ali nearer to God. It takes courage never to dis- ovvn those of low degree. It is quite easy for a young man or vvoman in the business vvorld to bovv dovvn before those vvho are wealthy and to do endless fa- vors for them, but it is quite a different proposition vvith the poor. The poor are too often looked dovvn upon vvith disdain. It takes courage to be the Champion of human right of ali classes, and herein lies the true test of character. * * * The last monthly meeting 0 f the Kingsters vvas called to or- der May 21 at 11:00 a. m. The attendance vvas quite good, and why shouldn’t it be vvhen a grand party follovved the meet¬ ing! The members vvho failed to attend that meeting, hovvever, missed a treat, for you under- stand that vve do not send any refreshments home to non-pres. ent members. Hot dogs, pop, candy, oranges, cakes, and doughnuts sound appetizing, don’t they? Well, that’s vvhat vve ate just three Sundays ago. After the party several girls, together vvith our administra¬ tor and Mr. Previc vvent to the club vvhere vve danced to our favorite polka. Which one ? Why the Beer Barrel Polka of course. We vvere sorry to hear that Mary Laurich sprained her an- kle, vvhich prevented her from being vvith us on May 21. But vve knovv that she is recovering nicely. May 28 marked the day on vvhich Michael Vrhovnik shovved movies at White Valley. In be- half of the Kingsters, I vvish to thank br other Vrhovnik for visiting us, and vve hope to have him vvith us again soon. Each individual of the King¬ sters should do his utmost in soliciting friends to join our Vrtec. I am sure that you ali realize the need of enlarging it, as many of our members are joining other units, but fevv nevv ones are being admitted. Tvvo more of our girls are leaving us in June; our recording secre- tary, Thresa Kastelic, and Paul¬ ine Kogosek. This means that a nevv recording secretary must be elected. And by the way, our transferred members to the Eve- ning Starš are alvvays vvelcome to come to our meetings. Another of our loyal members is no longer vvith us each month. He is Stanley Previc, vvho had gone to the CCC about a month ago. But some day vve may be surprised to see a man in full uniform stand before us. Thresa Kastelic and Helen Sabec are among the thousands of high school graduates this year. Thresa graduated June 1 from Greensburg High and Hel¬ en graduated June 9 from Franklin Tovvnship High. Con- gratulations former Kingsters and may you enter higher fields of learning. Since school days are over, for this term at least, vve find more leisure time on hand. Nov is the time for more of our mem¬ bers to contribute articles to the Napredek. And novv, a final reminder- Kingsters attend our meeting of June 18 in full number. Helen Kastelic, Preš. Vrtec 103 ]Vlilwaukee, Wis. — May 13, 1939 Vrtec No. 33 had their meeting. As the administratrix vvas not able to be there Mr. Ermence took charge of the meeting. I was not at the meet¬ ing because I went to Chicago with Norma and Olga Stamp- f e l, Elsie Ohojak and our ad¬ ministrator Mrs. Stampfel for the Second Vrtec Cultural Fes¬ tival. We started for Chicago by taking the North Shore Line train. It was a niče long ride and we could see a lot of scenery on the way. When we got off the North Shore Line we took a car to Lawndale Ave., where we wanted to go to. When we got off the car we had to go to Berger’s Hotel where we had a swell supper. There is where ali the Vrtec members met so as to be directed vvhere to go to their sleeping quarters. We slept at a very niče home and on real comfortable beds. The owners of the home being Mr. and Mrs. Zupančič. At the home vve met a bright-eyed boy from a Chicago Vrtec. This young chap was Frankie Zupančič. Gosh vve did have a lot of fun with him. I hope he stili remem- bers us. We four girls and Mrs. Stampfel give our sincere gra- titude to Mr. and Mrs. Zupančič for letting us lodge at their home. We are indeed very grate- fuL On Mother’s Day vve got up at 8 o’clock to go to Berger’s Ho¬ tel to have bi'eakfast. There we met the Vrtec members and they were ready to go to the Brookfield Zoo. Then we ali got into the cars to go down to the zoo. At the zoo we saw many different sorts of animals. The bears were the first things we saw. The bears would sit up to get peanuts from the visitors. Next we saw monkeys and then we saw many different birds. Then vve vvent to the reptile building vvhere vve savv many huge snakes such as cobras, cop- per heads and many other kinds. Then vve savv the pandas. The panda looks like a teddy bear with tvvo black eyes and many black spots on its body. The pan¬ da is a very expensive animal from China. After vve savv most everything vve vvent home and then prepared for the program. We had dmner and then vve 'vent to the hali to see the pro¬ gram. There vvere many chil- dren that took part in the pro¬ gram. Tap dancing, cornet and Piano solo, singing, and the tvvo Plays and other things on the Program. After the program vve s aw movies of Slovenia. After the program vvas over lunch vvas served in the lovver hali and aft- e r lunch there vvas mušic and dancing in the lovver and upper halls. Many attended from Milvvau¬ kee. My mother and father came Sunday. They said that they al- Pi°st lost their vvay. You can r eadily see vvhy, as Chicago is such a large city and has so many streets that you j ust get tangled up.” Johnny Marn, Mr. and Mrs. Pugel and son, Mr. and Mrs. Bernik, Mr. Bren- ce and Mr. and Mrs. Ohojak, along vvith Norma and Olga Stampfel, Betty Bernik and El¬ sie and Margaret Ohojak vvere included in those from Milvvau- kee attending the affair. As it vvas getting late the Milvvaukee gang started for home ,enjoying it from the be- ginning to the end. There is one more thing I vvould like to mention and that is, the four of us girls vvant to thank Mirko Kuhel for accom- panying us on the piano. Yours fraternally, Margaret Ohojak, Vrtec No. 33. Milvvaukee, Wis. — June and its significsnce to us SSPZ Vr¬ tec members. June is juvenile month as vve ali should bear in mind. June I believe is the most popular month of the year “June Brides,” the title sought by nevvlyweds. It is the month of Roses. We have the longest days and shortest nights. The vveather is ideal; fresh fruits and vegeiables are abundant. Nature is in her full glory, radiant, glorious June. The 22nd is the beginning of sum mer. It is also the begin¬ ning of the great anxiously avvaited for time, vvhen schools close for the summer and vaca- tion begins. Many things are planned in the minds of us youngsters for our fun and en- joyment. “Life is just vvhat you make it yourself,” they say, so let’s make it as lovely and pleas- ant as vve can vvhile vve are young and free from vvorries and troubles. At our Vrtec meeting vvith the consent of our administra¬ tor vvho vvas absent (she vvas enjoying herself in Chicago at the Cultural Vrtec Festival vvith other fortunate members of our gang), vve decided that again this year like the other previous years to have another traditon- al get-together vvhich is so vvell- liked by ali us members, an Ice Cream Social, Saturday eve- ning, June 24th at Stampfel’s lavvn. We vvill serve Ice cream vvith cake. There vvill be mušic furnished by our ovvn members: accordions, Heran, Rudy, etc.. Hawaiian guitar Virginia plays so beautifully, violin by Rose- mary, Jeannette Gaber, guitar. Chinese lanterns vvill throvv a mellovv light on the gathering of mothers, fathers and their friends vvho vvill come to enjoy themselves vvith their happy youngsters on the green lavvn, cool shady plače, the evening of June 24th. We also decided to ask our mothers for a donation of a cake each, so if our vvish is granted by our mothers vve vvill have a real feast. Ali members boys and girls, are urged to boost this affair. Try and seli as manv tickets as you possibly can; the bigger the gathering, more advertising it means for our Vrtec, for more nevv mem¬ bers, more fun for ali present, and more profit for our Vrtec treasury. Fraternally yours Marie Ermence Vrtec No. 33 Milvvaukee, Wis. — School days are almost over or they are over, children are full of cheer and the days are grovving vvarmer. Spring days are almost over, and soon vve shall go svvimming or do other things but vve stili keep in mind those little things of spring. Here are a fevv reminders of spring. Delmont, Pa. — Since the be¬ ginning of time, people have had something vvith vvhich to oc- cupy their minds. Reading had been one of the most popular forms of entertainment and stili holds true today, except to a much greater extent. In Egypt, the birthplace of civilization, scrolls vvere used to spread the message, but today more ade- quate means of transfering ideas and messages have been found. The printed vvord contains more beauty than vve can ever realize — beauty in thought, beauty in character, beauty in simplicity. The printed page takes us to ali parts of the globe, helps us to understand the hard- ships of different races of peo¬ ple, depicts the lives of our fore- most citizens, and portrays many other phases of life, too numerous to mention. During the last year for my ovvn reading pleasure I have come into contact vvith many in- teresting personalities, most of vvhom are popular present-day vvriters. Among the fiction books vvhich are particularly vvorthy of praise, “The Rolling Years” and “Remember The End” by Agnes Sligh Turnbull appeal to me considerably. The reason for this is undoubtedly because the authoress vvas born and lived in Nevv Alexandria, a tovvn about eight miles away. She doesn’t forget to mention Delmont in her novels. Mrs. Pearl S. Buck takes us to that far-off land China in “The Good Earth.” The story is vvarm in tone and shovvs exactly vvhat may happen in a country vvhere polygamy is practiced. Hovv thankful vve may be that no such social custom exists in America. The motion picture by the same name vvhich vvas shovvn several years ago, vvas changed somevvhat from the original vvriting. You vvill recall that Paul Muni and Luise Ranier played the roles of Wang Lang and 0’Lan respectively. Sweetly scenting every nook Posies pink, pretty they do look, Round about in their new frocks Irises, roses, lilies and lilacs, Newly dressed are they for summer čare Gaily nodding in the spring air. Songs of the singing bird and wren Praising you can hear them in the glen, Round about they dart and fly In a rhythmic way they cry, Never tiring for the day Gaily these birds go on their way. Springing, jumping and darting around Playing vvith the ripling water sound, Rushing into the little brook Into the vveeds and the shady nook, Newly filled vvith joy and the fishes play Gaily on this lovely spring day. Plovvers, birds and fish know that spring is here, Because they nod their heads and are always full of cheer, So let us also be happy and gay, On this joyous and lovely spring day. Elsie Ohojak Vrtec No. 33 Another novel of interest is “The Land of Promise” by Mar¬ garet Lynn. The title alone gave me inspiration. This novel deals vvith the settlement of the West and the hardships vvhich the settlers encountered. The West vvas then vvild and vvooly indeed, but no covvboys lurked around. Girls particularly vvill vvant to read Bess Aldrich’s stories. Probably her tvvo best knovvn are “A Lantern in Her Hand” and “Spring Came On Forever.” These stories deal vvith the co- lonial period of our country. Little needs to be said about “The Citadel,” the story of a doctor’s life vvritten by a doc- tor A. J. Cronin. This book has been on the popular list of fa- vorites for many months. Many people are under the impression that non-fiction books are boring, but now-a- days they are more interesting reading than fiction. The life of our great American comedian and philanthropist Will Rogers, is a striking example. P. J. 0’- Brien gives a vivid story of his life. I have saved the best story for the last. “A Woman Sur- geon,” the life and vvork of Ro- salie Slaughter Morton. She started the American’s Womens Hospitals, an accomplishment worthy of praise. She nursed the Yugoslavs during the World War and founded a hospital in Europe. The Norton Hospital is the only hospital in Europe named for a vvoman vvho is not a queen. I challenge every book lover to read this vvonderful autobiography vvhose style is so superb. Yes, my faithful servants are books. Time Dandruffs On A fly vvas vvalking vvith her daughter on the head of a man vvho vvas very bald. “Hovv things change, my dear,” she said. “When I vvas your age, this vvas only a footpath.” IVhite Vallej Kingsters MY FAITHFUL SERVANTS By Helen Kastelic PAGE 4 Juvenile Section of “Napredek June 21st, 1939 THE OUTLOOKERS’ HONOR ROLL By Valeria Artel “Outlookers’ Corner”, published S as a section of the Napredek's § Vrtec page. The Junior Editors & are; » Editor-in-chief - Valeria Artel S News Editor - Josephine Kovic § Feature Editor - Fred Bashel & “Do unto others as you would w have them do unto you.” S OUR PERSONALITIES Frank Vadnal “Chick” A long, long time ago (not so very long — eighteen years, come this July 24th, to be ex- act) that familiar and welcome bird once again made one of its famous trips, this being on the dark and dismal night of July 24, in the year 1921. Deposit- ing its precious bundle at the doorstep of Anthony Vadnal, Sr., it once again took flight and headed toward the land of life. With a lusty yell that rever- berated up and down 65th St. and surrounding areas of Cle¬ veland, that little bundle made its arrival known. When Mr. Vadnal opened the door and saw what made ali the noiss, the neighbors awoke, believing that a revolution had started, or that a Civil war was in the making. Looking out the vvin- dows, they saw a man running up and down the Street in his night shirt, yelling at the top of his voice. Suddenly realizing his mistake, he returned to his home, much to the relief of the neighbors. Two weeks later, a bottle of good old Slovene wine vvas opened, and this bundle was christened “Frank Vadnal.” The next three years were spent in happy contentment by Mr. and Mrs. Vadnal, vvatching their children grow up. One day, while looking out the window, Mr. Vadnal decided that the area they lived in was too crowded for their children to grow up in. So — packing their belongings, they moved to Collinvvood, a suburb of Cleve¬ land. After moving around a bit in Collinwood, they finally settled. down at their present address, 16118 Arcade Avenue. Here Frank Vadnal grew up with his three brothers and one sister. While stili in their early teens, Frank and his two broth¬ ers and sister were very much interested in mušic. Result be¬ ing that today Mr. Vadnal is proud to present an orchestra consisting of his three sons and daughter: Johnny, who plays the accordion; Frankie, playing both guitar and banjo; Tony, playing bass fiddle; and Valeria, playing the piano. After completing 12 years of schooling, Frank, who attains a height of 5 feet 5 inches, weighs 115 pounds, and has brown eyes and brown hair, graduated f r o m Collinwood High school on June 17, with high honors. At a recognition assembly, Frank was awarded the boys’ Technical Trophy HEADLINE FLASHES By Valeria Artel First of ali, congratulations to the two of our members be- sides myself vvho graduated from high school last week — Freddy Bashel, and Frankie Vadnal. Best of lučk and vvishes for success and happiness to both. They deserve it! ¥ * * Due to unavoidable circum- stance, I was unable to be pres¬ ent at our picnic last Sunday, but from what I hear, it was a success. There appears to be quite some doubt as to who won the baseball game —we, or Spartan Jrs. We, naturally, know it was our side by a score of 13 to 12 but — you ne ver can teli. N * * * The main attraction of the month for me was my Com- mencement Party, which came as a total surprise immediately after our June Vrtec meeting. Thanks again to ali the eighty- some peopie who made it such a memorable evening for me! ^ ¥ V Also listed among our cele- brations this month were the birthdays of Josephine Kovic and Aliče Bashel, who are now sweet sixteen — and how! Con¬ gratulations ! * * * Boys, don’t forget baseball practice every Saturday after- noon at 1 o’clock. Next time you play a baseball game, we would appreciate it if you might make your victory so decisive that there couid be no doubt as to the winner! ¥ H- * There is stili another week in which to enjoy ourselves in the month especially set aside far us Vrtec members, so, even if, as a Vrtec group, we have no other set plans for a good time together, let’s go in small groups — hiking, bike-riding, swimming, fishing — anything at ali. Summertime is the sea- son when we should forget ali the harrowing vvorries of school life, and build ourselves up with fun and exercise. So, go to it. which means that he averaged an “A” grade in ali technical subjects throughout his senior years. He was also recognized for being on the National Honor Society — his Honor Pin, and congratulated on his excellent Services as Commander of the Hall Guards of Collinvvood. Be- sides these abilities, Frank also made a great performance m the school operetta “The Mika- do,” vvhere he acted as the Lord High Executioner. And now, from the bottom of my heart, and as a fellovv class- mate, I wish Frank ali the hap¬ piness and success that can be bestovved upon a person as he journeys through life.. Adios. Fred Bashel June is a month of com- mencements, graduation, and of bestovving, upon the deserv- ing, avvards and honors of ali kinds. June is also, and verv importantly so, our Vrtec mem¬ bers’ month, and we also have our hard vvorkers and brilliant students. So here we have a list of our “Honor Students” vvho deserve recognition for their work during the past year: Our SSPZ supreme officers — vvho undoubtedly supply the strong foundation for our or- ganization and for our špirit of brotherhood. Mr. Michael Vrhovnik for — well, for so many things, that they cannot be enumerated, but mainly for being the heart and soul of our Vrtec groups, for- ever pushing us onvvard to- vvards life’s finer ideals. Mr. Vatro Grili — for his hard work and patience in as- sembling and putting forth a Napredek of vvhich we can be, and are, justly proud. Mr. John Zaman — vvithout vvhose expert advice and criti- cism we vvould be unable to survive as an active organiza- tion. Edvvard Slejko — vvho, as our capable president, has led us through the past year and a half vvith a škili characteristic of an experienced adult, and al¬ so for playing his saxophone and clarinet vvhenever we ask- ed him to. (By the way, Eddie won first plače in a national musical contest for his excel- lence on the clarinet.) Fred Bashel — for excellent and dependable work in vvrit- ing for our Vrtec page. Freddy has vvritten steadily for one year, vvithout having missed one issue. Frank Mivec, Julia Kramzer, and Michael Vrhovnik — for honoring us by being our guest vvriters in “Outside Vievvpoints.” Joe Zorman — for being our kindly and understanding base¬ ball manager both last year and this. Josephine Kovic and Olga Zaubi — for planning and pre- paring the Hallowe’en party, vvhich was their own idea, and vvhich was undoubtedly a grand success. Eleanor Ster and Margaret Watson — for their interesting and well-written contributions to the Vrtec page. Frank and Johnny Vadnal and Frank Gačnik — vvho never failed us in our requests for mušic, at parties, meelings, dances, etc. By the way, may I especially express my gratitude to Frank and Johnny Vadnal, and to Edvvard Slejko for play- ing ali evening at my surprise Commencement Party tvvo vveeks ago. Thanks a million ... I shall never forget it. (In con- nection vvith that party, thanks also to Josephine Kovic, vvho, together vvith my mom planned the affair, and to ali the rest of you vvho made it an evening that I shall alvvays treasure i n my memory.) To Rudy Bratina — to vvhose credit go so many of our lighter anonymous articles, and vvho also has played for us upon our request. . Aliče Bashel — for her fine performance in our playlet last October, together vvith our president, vice-president, and other members. We had loads of fun. Remember? (Johnny Až¬ man sure vvas a scream in his sliort pants and big red bovvs.) Bob Zaman, Andy Bohinc, Frankie Vadnal, Stanley Bohinc, Joe Prinčič, John Ažman, Aliče Bashel, Harold Tavzel, Fritz Hribar, John Kushan — vvho served as sergeant-at-arms dur¬ ing the past Vrtec year. Harold Tavzel — vvho provid- ed such a grand entertainment by his questions made up for our “Quiz Bee” last vvinter. To Ludvvig Lukane, Johnny Ažman, and Mr. Stefanic —vvho served as bartenders during our picnic last July. Mrs. Bashel — vvho helped us by directing our playlet last Oc¬ tober. To ali the rest of our mem¬ bers, parents, and our friends vvho made this year, from June to June, a year of success, fun, and happy memories. CRAZY CRIMES By Margaret Watson Question: A vvoman drives to a bank, and, arriving there, vvrites out a check vvhich she tries to cash. The bank teller asks her for identification. She then shovvs her driving license, and the teller, a handvvriting expert on the side, compares the signatures and discovers that the check is a forgery. She gets fifteen years. What is vvrong vvith this? (See answer at bottom of page) CHOICE INEVITABLE God offers to every mind its choice betvveen truth and re- pose. (1) He in vvhom the love of repose predominates vvill ac- cept the first creed, the first philosophy, the first political party he meets,—most likely his father’s. (2) He in vvhom the love of truth predominates vvill keep himself aloof from ali moorings and afloat. (3) He submits to the inconvenience of suspense and imperfect opinion, but he is a candidate for truth, as the other is not, and res- pects the highest lavv of his being. —Ralph Waldo Emerson. ANSWER TO CRAZY CRIME Don’t be silly. The vvoman drove to the bank. Therefore, she vvouldn’t have her license with her. It vvould be home, iti her blue hand bag in the lovver right hand dravver of her dres- ser. Ju ne 21st, 1939 With Our Juniors (Continued from page 1) star shining warmly over both. It wouldn’t be the right thing to do if I were to leave off writing here without making some mention of the Challenger Juniors of Strah? ne... it was a t Strabane that a record at- tendance was present to see our ro ovie of Slovenia. Over 450 peo- ple vvere there tc see and hear the program... My old friend, Pete Elish, was drafted to give a short address and to introduce our boys and girls v/hen it came their turn to sing, dance or talk, and he did a mighty fine job of it for which words of praise and compliment were heaped upon him. Vivian Beton- te opened the juvenile program with an appropriate song, “God Save America,” and closed it with a song and dance number that rewarded her with thunder- ous applause... Vivian is an amateur, but don’t let anyone kid you into thinking she acts like one — She’s been places, too, having participated in re- vues in Canonsburg, Pittsburg, VVashington and many other cities and seldom fails to cop one of the top prizes. She’s had an audition before Major Bowes in New York where she gave an excellent account of herself. .. In Strabane, a program without Jennie Tomšič and Helen Kress just wouldn’t be a program. They sang two Slovene numbers as a duet and Helen did a solo, singing “Pennies From Heaven” — A few weeks later, the same girls. including Vivian, sang and danced in the Capitol Theater at Meadowlands for Lodge No. 113. Oh, I could go on telling you in detail the hit Billy Davis and Frankie Fazzolare made in presenting their blackface skit; they really went over in a big way and so did Matilda Bor- chet in rendering the song “Weeping Willow”. .. They are ali good, everyone of them... Which brings me to Ambridge.. The hometown of the Comets. Their play, “School Days”, pre- sented on the occasion of my visit, brought back memories ot younger days. A čast of some twelve boys and girls, playing school while teacher was out of the room, furnished the audi¬ ence with m?ny hearty laughs.. Agnes Tekstar, a member of the Vrtec, directed the play and judging by the results she ob- tained, I’m sure she’s ready to take over more responsible du- ties. .. Frances Rosenberger, President of the Comets, who gave a short welcome address and then pinned a rose on my c oat lapel, comes in for a share of compliments handed °ut by me in this day’s arti- c te... From the few things I have told you, happenings among our Vrtec members, you °an see that in many communi- ties, our boys and girls are Juvenile Section of “Napredek” PAGE 5 Vrtec 140 INVASION Pierce, W. Va. — After read- ing brother Michael Vrhovnik’s article about his trip to West Virginia, I felt that I should write in the Vrtec page. We were ali looking forward to his visit, but when he didn’t arrive at the time we expected him to come, many of the people that crowded the school grounds were going to go home, disap- pointed. But just then he ar- rived and the people crowded into the auditorium. After bein gintroduced to the audience by brother Louis Royce, brother Vrhovink made a speech that* I am sure, con- vinced many people that our society is a good one. Although the prospect of getting new members did not seem good at thattime. I think that some of the parents in the audience de- cided to let their children join when working conditions got better. To the Slovenes, and, in fact to ali, the Movies of Slovenia were of great interest. No doubt they brought back many happy memories of Slovenia, vvhere many spent their childhood days, roaming the hills and val- leys. The movies of the activi- ties of the SSPZ were the most interesting to some, for some of our own members vvere shown on the screen for the first time. Brother Vrhovnik liked the scenery of our state, and, like many other people, would like to see more of it. People marvel at our never ending panoramas of mountains and forests, lakes and streams. The few hours that we mem¬ bers spent with Brother Vrhov¬ nik were delightful, and we hope he will be able to stay with us longer if he ever has the oppor- tunity to visit us again. Jennie Klevisher, Preš. making progress and will con- tinue doing so as long as there is an adult in the Parent lodge willing to donate his Service to this cause. It’s so important that some one do that. It’s a valu- able service to the children, to the community and country in that we are helping to build better citizens, men and vremen who will some day vote and act on problems pertaining to our local, State and national govern- ments. SO, GIVE THE SSPZ, THE MOTHER OF OUR SLO¬ VENE YOUTH MOVEMENTS, MORE OF YOUR TIME FOR EVERY MINUTE YOU GIVE AND EVERY OUNCE OF EN- ERGY YOU EXPEND WILL COME BACK TO YOU IN ONE FORM OR ANOTHER! EN- ROLL YOUR F R I E N D S ! BUILD UP YOUR VRTEC! SUPPORT FRATERNAL SPORTS AND SOCIAL AF- FAIRS! BOOST THE SSPZ EVERY DAY IN EVERY WAY! Michael Vrhovnik The signal vvhistle shrieked and sirens vvailed. The sharp, clear blair of the bugle sent the doughboys trembling from their cots. As the shirtless youngsters dashed out of their pup tents into the foggy davvn, shot and shell thundered in shrill cres- cendo. The army boys in blue fell into line as the captain rushed in. The enemy fleet has been sighted off Cape Felton. The doughboys vvere ordered dovvn to duty along the coast. Light artillery and anti-aircraft pieces vvere set up to combat planeš of the Black Fleet. Bombers had vviped out Blakeville, the head- quarters of the 51st, and so the command had been moved to Lane City. Coastal defense guns vvere prepared for action. The time of the arrival of the enemy fleet vvould be 12:40. The suicide patrol, torpedo boats the size of a motor launch carrying tvvo deadly projectiles, vvas launch- ed. The small fleet, f o u r cruisers, six heavy battle-vvag- ons, four destroyers, six sub- marines, and tvvo plane carriers, moved to their nevv positions, bottling the mouth of the Bay. Those men vvere determined to stay aboard till the end. The hour of the enemy approach vvas nearing, and suddenly the still- ness vvhich had fallen like a pall vvas rent by a shrill yell. It vvas the enemy fleet. The pitiful line of torpedo boats vvent forth vvith their mes- sengers of death. They released their deadly cargo totally de- stroying tvvo heavy dread- naughts of the Black Fleet. The cost vvas great hovvever, for the tvvelve suicide boats vvere smash- ed to splinters and šunk. There follovved great misfor- tune vvhen a submarine vvormed its vvay through the small fleet and hit the flagship vvith four torpedoes. The crevv vvas rescued but the mighty dreadnaught vvas totally disabled. Ship after ship of the Blue Fleet fell out of the battle. Reports of heavy air casualties kept seeping into headquarters. With the Blue Fleet vviped out and the air cleared of United States planeš, the enemy land- ed their marines. Though great- ly outnumbered, the Boys in Blue fought valiantly. Finally, they vvere driven by sheer vveight of numbers to the end of the Peninsula. The black, enemy flag vvas raised over the bar- racks. The manuevers vvere over and the victorious Black Fleet of the navy escorted the Blue Fleet back to their Atlantic Navy Base. The Black Fleet of the Navy vvas prepared to meet any crisis vvhich might arise in these troubled times. Andrevv Elersich Spartan Jrs. SSPZ Vrtec Snapshot Contest R U L E S 1. This contest begins May lst and ends July 31, 1939. 2. Only Vrtec members are eligible to enter. 3. Pictures submitted must be those actually taken by the contestant. 4. Each contestant is limited to ten (10) pictures. 5. A suitable title, the name of the contestant and the num¬ ber of the Vrtec should be printed on the back of every picture. 6. Preferred pictures are those of members at play, vvork, picnics, parties, outings, etc. (Try to catch the human interest appeal.) 7. Ali prize-vvinning pictures vvill become the property of the S. S. P. Z. 8. Pictures vvill be returned only if a request for their return accompanies them. 9. Ten (10) cash prizes vvill be avvarded as follovvs: lst prize .$5.00 2nd prize . 4.00 3rd prize . 3.00 4th prize . 2.00 6 prizes each . 1.00 10. Ali prize-vvinners vvill be published in the Vrtec Section. 11. Judges shall be selected by the Supreme Administrative Sub-committee. Their decisions in determining prize-vvinners shall be final. 12. The official entry blank, or copy thereof, must be filled out, signed by the entrant and accompany the picture (s). SSPZ VRTEC SNAPSHOT CONTEST OFFICIAL ENTRY BLANK I hereby submit the enclosed picture (s) for considera- tion in the S. S. P. Z. Vrtec Snapshot Contest. I have read the rules of the contest and agree to abide by them. Vrtec No. | Name of Contestant ... $ 1 Street or P. O. Box No.:. ® City or Tovvn.State. Clip and mail to the Director Juvenile Department, 247 West 103rd Street, Chicago, Illinois. June 21st, 1939 Juvenile Section ol “Napredek and bid for the SSPZ Junior Softball Championship. Martin Dragon WHOSE FAULT WAS IT Indianapolis, Ind. — My big- gest thrill comes in the spring time. They say it is then that a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love, but •vvhere do the thoughts of the opposite sex stray? To thoughts of spring hats. Of course, when I select a hat I want it to be a sensible one. Making the rounds of the stores I must see ali the hats in stock before I can choose. Here is an episode which takes plače almost daily in the hat departments of our downtown stores. Just let your mind go back to May 6, 1939 or any other day in early spring. It is 9:30 a. m. Saturday. Our largest stores have j ust opened. Breaking the ranks of early morning shoppers is no easy task but slow but sure I get through them. I make a dash for the escalator and from there fly to the millinery department. After trying on several hats I notice tears running down the faces of onlookers and the aren’t tears of sadness either. I also see men and women choking behind their handkerchiefs. (I wonder what’s so funny.) Here is a darling hat with flaps on both sides like wings. “Contact,” says a voice. Look- ing down I see a very čute little boy. “Lady, are you taking off ?” he asks. I decide he isn’t so čute. “Now here is a ducky one.” I put it on. More people smother- ing laughs. 12:00, I stop for lunch. 12:15, back in the hat depart¬ ment. (I’m on a diet.) While put- ting on one which I think extra special, I hear someone mutter, “It looks like the Wings Over the Navy.” After looking at \vhat his wife has on I wonder which of us he means. Presently there is a crowd trying on hats. Why are the men so interested in ladies hats? Every time I try one on I hear someone laugh. Am I mad !!! 5:30. The stores are closing. I stili don’t have a hat. I come home ali hot and bothered. Little sister, while clowning, puts a thimble, thread and pin- cushion on top of the sewing basket and puts it on her head. An idea comes to me. Rushing to a neighborhood 5 and 10 I buy a veil. Sunday morning sees me in church with a new hat. After mass the girls ali flock around me and compliment my hat, but the boys keep their months shut. Their expressions plainly saying, “Silly hats and silly \vomen,” but there is a fly in the ointment. Isn’t it true that men are more famous for designing women’s clothes than the women them- selves? So if our hats are silly, who.se fault is it? Wilma Mergole Vrtec No. 9 Indianapolis, Ind. — Whether this is true with everyone or not, I do not know, but I do know that it is true with most of my close friends. It seems, to me, that the boys are more thrifty in the lunchroom than the girls. Maybe the girls do spend only a small amount of money for dinner, but it is be- cause they are usually on a diet ,either to gain weight or to lose it. We must never think, how- ever, of the boys as a thriftv lot, by no means. There are, as I have learned by associating with the different boys in my neighborhood, different condi- tions which govern the boy’s economy in the lunchroom. For instance, there is the romantic or “Casanova” type of boy who spends probably only one third of his lunch money and saves the other two thirds for a date over the week-end, or until he has saved enough mon- ey for a date. Then there is the type of boy who saves part of his lunch. money to go to the movies in the evening, or to spend at the drug store, where probably he is one of the many “drug-store cowboys”. Thus you see that the boys are economical, for the sole rea- son, that they may have money later to spend. Rudolph Milharčič AWAITING SEPTEMBER Indianapolis, Ind. — The soft¬ ball season for Vrtec No. 9 is now in full swing. Thus far the team has played seven games winning four and losing three. After starting the season in an inauspicious manner by losing a practice game to the strong Hoosier Pal team by a score of 14-8, the Jugoslavs went ahead and won a slugfest from the strong Lynn Street team by a score of 9 to 2. Lil Abner Zupančič hurled a no-hit game until the seventh inning and then the Lynn boys bunched two hits, mixed with a walk and an error to get two runs. The next win was against the River Avenue aggregation in which the score was 3-2 in our favor. This game was hurled by Louis Znidersich and he allowed only two hits. In a return game with the Lynn boys our team also came out in front by a score of 9-6. John Praprotnik hurled this game. The two losses thus far besides the Hoosier Pal game were against Y-B Paint Co. and Howard Street Merchants. The hitting of the team is a little off par but as the season progresses the boys will regain their batting eyes. It might be a little early to predict what sort of a team we will have but looking at the record of the team and their attitude, it looks as if Tony “Frosty” Qualitza’s boys will again have a successful season Indianapolis, Ind. — Yes, folks, we’re back again with more news and gossip from In¬ dianapolis. The June meeting was called to order at 10:30 a. m. at the Slovene National Home on Sun- day, June 4, 1939. It was a short business meeting. It was decided that a candid camera be award- ed in the near future. Now as the chairman and other members of the publicity comnfittee sink into their chairs, they begin to dream— dream—dream. As they awaken each one on the committee sub- mits one or two of the follow- ing. * * John Zimmerman, Clara Mad- ley and Sylvia Naumsek are the proud graduates of Holy Tri- nity Parochial School. (Another milestone has been achieved in their preparation for life.) Alma Klemen, being a little sleepy from the party that was held the previous evening missed school Wednesday. (Her excuse was a blister on her foot caused by dancing.) Fasty Qualiza reports that the soft-ball team is rounding into fine shape with flying col- ors. (What methods do you use, coach?) Alma Qualiza, our governess, is very anxious to return to Chi¬ cago. (We wonder why??) Allgred Armin wants to go on a picnic with a certain Julia. (Can’t you get the rest of the soft-ball players to go along Al?) Charles “Sore Arm” Kom- lanes had a sprained ankle dur- ing last week’s practice. (Is it any better this week Charley?) Frank “Race Fan” Zakrajšek was one of the 150,000 race fans at the Indianapolis Speedway. (We wonder how you got it. Was it the News truck?) Rose “Mascot” Klarick was showing her new mascot jacket around at the Festival. (Did any of the boys like it Rose?) Mary “Mascot” Klarick was showing off her new jacket at the May Festival too. August “No Run.” Zupančič pitched a shut out game on Friday May 27. Gus allowed one hit. (Congratulations to you.) Melvin “Lover” Scott had three girls in his car one lovely Sunday afternoon. (Red has been doing better than Tony lately.) Louis “2nd base” Dragon has received a block W for fresh- men basketball. (Nice going, Louie.) Martin “Captain” Dragon won awards for shorthand and Ci- cero. He also received a letter W for basketball. (Congratula¬ tions to you Cappy.) Phyllis “Dead Pan” Beyer is a new member of Vrtec 9. She is also writing for the Napre¬ dek. (Is that the reason why Tony Bayt always visits at her house?) Dorothy “Sweet 16” Semenick was surprised by a party given in her honor. (We wonder why a certain party was the last one to leave.) John “Beer Barrel” Praprot¬ nik sure must have had a good time at the party, for he even made a date with the hostess. (Did you keep it Johnny?) Adolph “VVrong Aim” Flajs is at the top of the batting average of the softball team. (Keep it up.) Anthony “Two-ton” Bayt, a graduate from Arsenal Tech went on a spree on his gradua- tion night. (Did you get in early Tony ?) Louis “M. O. P.” Snider lost his first game of the season against Howard Merc hants. (Tough lučk, Louie.) William “Bill” Komlac objects to any soft bali meetings. (Who keeps you away, Bill?) Albin “Beany” Turk is a cad- dy that puts art into his work. (Does this year’s business look prosperous, Al?) Rudolph “Chuck” Milharčič is being honored by the Napiv lek this month. (How about an¬ other story Chuck?) Delores “Dizzy and her dales” was expecting company fn >m two young men attending c A- lege at Flint, Michigan, on Memorial Day. (How long did you wait, Dizzy?) Frank “Ex-Pres.” Mivec giad- uated from Arsenal Tech on June 6, 1939. (We wonder if you and Tony had a good time together?) * * * As we are about to come to the conclusion of this little gos¬ sip column of the Vrtec No. 9 we again see the chairman and the rest of the publicity com¬ mittee sink deeper into their chairs and again begin to dream — dream — dream. The Hoosier Stockholders GRADUATION During the month of June, many a boy and girl will take a step farther into the world at graduation. Starting on June 6, 1939 the graduating day of Ar¬ senal Technical Schools some 1290 students will go into dif¬ ferent directions. Some students will immediately go into the field. of occupation in which they have prepared themselves for in high school. Others will go farther in preparing by go¬ ing on to a higher institution of learning. While some no doubt will lag behind and re- main dependent on their parents. Tonight as I am about to receive my diploma for the four years of which I have spent at Tech, I am beginning to realize how much I am going to miss school with its 76 acre campus and ali of my friends that I have made while I was there. I am going to miss my teachers, too, who have helped me in everyway possible in the field I have chosen to follow upon graduation. (Continued on page 8) June 21st, 1939 Juvenile Section of “ Ambridge, Pa. — Vrtec pals from far and near! Well ,time sure does fly, for here it is the month of June already. This is the month in which the SSPZ celebrate.s “Juvenile month.” Juvenile month is the time when ali Vi (ec units cele- brate by sponsciing some sort of entertainmonl or social for its members. 'J hi? gives them more enthusiasm to work for the Vrtec. This is the time when our members should get down to some real hard work. Try hard- er than ever to secure new mem¬ bers into our Vrtec. The SSPZ is an organization of which every member should be proud. It provides many opportuni- ties in which our younger mem¬ bers can participate. The SSPZ publishes a newspaper called “Progress” in which every Vr¬ tec member has the privilege to contribute into the Vrtec sec¬ tion. Many of our members don’t take this wonderful op- portunity and lose out on some fun. Remember this month is Juvenile month so keep the wheel of progress rolling on- ward and upward. What do you say Vrtec pals? The month of June is im- portant to our Vrtec. This is the month in which our Vrtec will celebrate its fourth anni- versary. It was in June 1935 that our adult lodge 41 decided to organize a Vrtec unit in Am¬ bridge. At our first meeting about twenty-eight members were present. The following members were elected as our first officers: President, Cle- ment Kosela; vice-president, John Uhernik; secretary, Mary Posega; treasurer, Gus Rosen- berger and Joseph Tekstar Sr., as administrator. Our member- ship at that time totaled about forty-three. This year our mem- bership thus far reaches to about sixty-five. Of course, dur- ing these four years many new members were enrolled but about eighteen or more mem¬ bers were transferred to the adult class. Duringthis time our Vrtec has been progressing quite rapidly. In the year 1937 our Comet lads journeyed to Cleveland and entered the Na¬ tional Athletic Meet. They won the SSPZ Vrtec softball cham- pionship and were crowned the champs. In the year 1938 they entered the N. A. Meet held in Bridgeville, Pa. Even though they didn’t win the champion- ship they tried hard. As it goes the best team always wins and it happened to be Sygan, Pa. As the years go by we hope to make our Vrtec larger and bet- ter than ever before. Vacation is here and school is out. This is the time for fun. Swimming, mushball, tennis, and numerous other sports are in line. So make the most of your time and en.ioy vourself in the outdoor sunshine. The attendance at our last meeting was fair but it could be Hi ali you better. Don’t let this weather get the best of you. I am sure each and everyone of our mem¬ bers can špare at least one day in a month to attend our meet- ings. Wake up, Jane Gašperšič and Frances Rosey. Pick up those pens and start scratching. Don’t stop j ust when you got started. What about you, Mary Yan- cher ? I know you have the abili- ty to write. So come on, it never hurts to try. Flashes Who is the good-looking blond in the Comets’ Vrtec? I’ve been hearing the girls go for him. Ho\v about it Harry? The Comet girls do a fine job in cheering on the mushball team. Our star second baseman Rudy Rosey certainly does a lot of posin’. Joe Tekstar and Joe Sumrok do the pitching for our team. Jane Gašperšič has celebrated her birthday this month. The Comets ali wish her a happy birthday! I vvonder why John Hasson is so quiet. Peter Georgiadas, Billy and J o Ann De Hart have j ust joined our Vrtec. Ignazia, don’t let my teasing get you. Louis Uhernik is doing some fine playing for our team. Keep it up Flash! I wonder why Marion and Al¬ berta Vlasic weren’t at our last meeting. Could it be that they had a more important date somewhere else. Frank Tekstar, Louis Rosen- berger and Raymond Kosela, our younger lads, are very ac- tive. They play mushball every day. Keep it up, for some day you will play on the Comets’ mushball team. I wonder why Valeria came when the meeting was j ust over. The Comet boys. who are in the Slovene singing society are doing fine work. Our next monthly meeting will be held Sat., June 17, at 4:00 p. m. at the usual plače. Refreshments will probably be served after the meeting. Be sure to come. I wish to take this opportu- nity to thank the Contest jud- ges for the literary prize I have received for my article in the “Progress.” I was very glad to receive the prize and believe me it \vas greatly appreciated. I think this is enough for this time but Pil be back again in the very near future. Agnes Tekstar, Rec. Sec’y Vrtec 44 THE STORY OF POISON IVY Ambridge, Pa. — Once upon a time, in a land far away, there grew a plani of wonderous beauty. It was of a golden red color and ali the country side gathered it to adorn theii homes. This plant was called Ivy. As the years passed, the Ivy grew to be very rare and scarce. The people in their quest for beauty, had picked too many Ivy plants. The Ivy that was left did not have time to grow and develope so their number decreased steadily. One Ivy plant complained of this matter to the wind. The wind answered: “I know, my dear Ivy. You are so beautifully colored that one cannot resist picking you. You have been sought for very much and you should be proud.” “Ah, Master Wind, I am proud but my pride shall not save me from being picked from this world. Others of my kind are very scarce and far be- tween. I fear very much that before long we shall exist no more.” “I see your side of it,” an- swerer the Wind, “but I am at loss to help you. Even now I have tarried too long. Good bye, my beautiful Ivy, good-bye.” As the wind gushed away, the little Ivy plant heard a sweet little voice say: “I can help you, if you shall let me.” Ivy looked around to find the owner of the voice. Before him stood a tiny creature with gold¬ en hair rippling down her shoul- der in shining waves and ring- lets. Her gown was made of sparkling dew, trimmed with violets whose color matched her dark fringed eyes. On her head rested a silver crown, with a matching wand. Ivy observed ali this and his breath was taken away by such splenaor. The tiny creature awaited his answer calmly, unmoved by his surprise and staring. Her eyes twinkled merrily when he was at last able to ask: “W-who are you?” “I am the Queen of the For- est,” she answered in her sweet voice. By now Ivy had complete con- trol of his surprise and he asked another question. “How can one so tiny as yourself help me and my kind? Besides how did you know I wanted help?” “I kno\v ali the wishes and desires of those who dwell with- in this territory. I shall help you by injecting into you a serum which is rea!ly a poison. It does not kili but it shall keep people from picking you. It will cause so much discomfort that no one shall pick you again. Do you wish this to happen?’ Ivy pondered a while and an- swered: “Fairy Queen, I am grateful to you for coming to my aid. If something is not done soon, I shall be gome from this world very soon. Yes, I shall let you inject this serum and I am most. grateful to you.” The fairy touched Ivy witli her sparkling wand and before Ivy had time to thank her, she had disappeared. So from that day on, Ivy has been called Poison Ivy. We ali know the Cfiarezvell I am going oh—my brethern On a long and distant journey Many suns and many vvaters Shall have come and shall vanished. 'Ere I come again to greet you. have Many years with you I’ve labored Many joys we’ve shared together Years were ali too short in passing Time for parting has arrived. To a city I must hasten Make my plače among the aliens There some joys I shall encounter There I never shall forget you. So, good-bye to ali dear breathern So, good-bye to ali Hiawathans May your life be long and prosperous May your life ever be one sublime. Florence Nokomis, 111. — Yes, it’s fare- well. It is strange how one makes friends only to have to part. Ever since we have been an organized branch, I have had the pleasure of serving as an officer and I can assure you I shall feel lost with nothing to do. Yet, I was only a “spoke” in the wheel of Hiawathans and no wheel has stopped be- cause one “spoke” was broken; so you are destined to go on and on, until Nokomis has no more “braves and maidens.” May the “wheel” keep on roll¬ ing; let no more “spokes” be broken; gather much as you trave! onward, gather pleasure as well as members. But what- ever you do, never let the Na¬ predek want for news from “Old Nokomis.” My last month here has been most joyous, and I want to ex- press my thanks to ali the mem¬ bers who extended their pleas- ant wishes upon my parting. School is out in Nokomis, and one can see children on everv hand having loads of fun — especially playing tennis for, as you know, ali Hiawathans are tennis fans, since Ann has join¬ ed the group; keep up the good playing. Many of the members have been going fishing and al- ways brought back fish, or was it simply fish stories? For your information our administrator claims to have caught thirty fish one night — did anyone see the fish? So now I must bring my last article as an active member to a close, hoping some good for- tune shall enable me to return soon. Remember I shall anxious- ly awa.it news from you in the Napredek for I shall be within reach of it. Florence INDIANAPOLIS JUGOSLAVS (Contiued from page 7.) Really it. is rather difficult for a person who is to graduate from school and who is going to miss it. Perhaps I am just a little sentimental Tony Bayt Vrtec No. 9. reason why and avoid the plant whenever we see it. Jane Gašperšič Vrtec 44 Lhallenger J umor § CHALLENGER JUNIORS HOLD PICNIC JUNE 25 Strabane, Pa. — Our first social of the year will be a picnic held at Drenik Park, Stra¬ bane, Pa., on June 25. We are extending an invitation to ali Vrteces in the surrounding dis- trict. How about seeing a few representatives from your Vr¬ tec? How about you “Comets” and “Syganers”? The mušic for this occasion will be furnished by one of the youngest orches- tra leaders in this vicinity, none other than Jake Martinčič. Jake and his orchestra specialize in those good old “polkas”, and say, can he play the “Beer Barrel Polka.” So come one, come ali, there \vi!l be plenty of mušic, fun, dancing and refresh-. ments for ali. Admission will te 25 cents. Will we see you there? A Great Shoiv On April 30, an audience of some 500 people witnessed one of the best performances, of talented young boys and girls, in this vicinity. The program was as follows: Mr. Pete Elish, vice-president of Challenger lodge, acting master of cere- monies, introdued the following entertainers. Musič by Jake) Martinčič and his orchestra started the program under way. Miss Grace Vivian Beton, a popular juvenile entertainer, sang a very appropriate num- ber: “God Bless America.” A Slovene song: “Prišla bo po¬ mlad,” harmonized by two love- ly young ladies, Misses Helen Kress and Jennie Tomšič, ac- companiment on the piano by Miss Evelyn Ambrose. Miss Betty Jane Beton strolling out on stage singing, “I vvant to be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart,” and then going into her acrobatic performance, received great ap- plause from the audience. Once again our lovely Helen Kress stepped into the spotlight sing¬ ing “Penny Serenade.” Our black-faced. comedians, Babe Davis and Frank Frazzalore, gave the audience a laugh do- ing their imitation of “Pick and Pat.” A selection by Jake Martinčič and his orchestra, the “Beer Barrel Polka,” went over great with the audience. Two surprises of the evening were, little Marguerite Christy sing¬ ing “Little Sir Echo,” and a song “Beneath a Weeping Wil- low,” sung by Thelma Burchik. Again Miss Grace Vivian Beton thrilled the audience by singing and dancing to “Fiat Foot Floo- gie.” Miss Angela Vella of Canonsburg accompanied the young ladies on the piano. Movies by our Director Michael Vrhovnik completed the pro¬ gram. Our talented young ladies, Miss Grace Vivian Beton, Miss Helen Kress, Miss Jennie Tom¬ šič, presented a program of songs and dances at the Meadovv Lands theater on June 8 . Musič by Jake Martinčič and his or¬ chestra and movies by Michael Vrhovnik completed the pro¬ gram, vvhich was greatly en- joyed by the audience. Junior Reporter. CHALLENGER JUNIORS DOWN SYGAN VRTEC Strabane, Pa. — In the open- ing games of the Western Penn- sylvania Junior SSPZ League, the Challengers defeated the last year champs Sygan Vrtec No. 72 in a double-header play- ed at Sygan. The scores of both games ended 4-2. Batteries in the first game Bob Davis and Sam Christy; for Sygan Dolinar and Gossic. Bob Davis allowed the Syganers 2 hits while strik- ing out 5. Bob also accounted for 3 of the 7 hits, 2 of which were doubles, allowed by Doli¬ nar. Batteries in the second game \vere S. Horvat relieved in the fourth by Zampan and Christy; for Sygan Gozini and Gossic. The Syganers again were held to 2 hits, a triple by Fisher and a single by Gossic. Beton, with a triple and single, lead the Jrs. while Zampan and Polinsky had a double and sin¬ gle apiece. On Sunday June 18 the Chal- lenger Jrs. will meet the Comets of Ambridge in a double-header at Ambridge. Manager Vrtec 77 Center, Pa. — Well here I am from Vrtec No. 77. Our “Big Day” has come and gone. (June lOth.) Brother Vrhovnik had come to spend a day with us, and shovved us very interesting moving pictures from Europe and parts of this country. Also, we had two plays. The name of them were “Mr. Grass Proves His Point,” and “The Spring- time Question.” Mr. Cutter had the “Harding School Orchestra” to entertain the people. Our ages range from 8 to 14 years. We asked brother Vrhovnik to sty at our plače overnight, then Sunday we invited him to our junior and senior meetings. I and ali the Vrtec members in- cluding our administratrix, thank brother Vrhovnik for his visit. During last week we got seven (7) new members and I stili think we are getting more. About a month ago, the boys from our Vrtec had organized a mushball team. They had al- ready played match games with other towns. Until later news, Helen Knafelc, Sec’y Vrtec 77 TOTAL LOSS “What did you do with my shirt?” “I sent it to the laundry.” “Ye gods! The whole history of England was on the cuffs.” Milwaukee, Wis. — Yes, from the very beginning it vvas fun, as we got on the North Shore Line. That is what vwe call the train, but in Chicago they call it the El; just like a bug or a fish. They call them El (ele- vated) because it runs way up above the streets and if that isn’t a thrill in itself what is? Every time we turned. a corner I thought we were going to hit a building. When we got off that train and started for some subs, it was hard to pick just the right one, and very exciting it was, making me hope I could get lost. We reached our meeting plače about 7:00 o’clock. And there was more fun meeting nevv peo¬ ple, eating at a restaurant table. The next day, which was Sun- day, vre went to the zoo. Oh! what a sight. We saw every- thing from big 40 foot snakes to monkeys and a two year old panda, and as I passed the cage I saw on a sign, the panda vreighs 175 lbs. I asked my mother if she vreighed that much but I never found out because everybody started to laugh. As vre vrere vvalking along, I vvas getting tired, T savv some buggies, and asked Mr. 0’Bosla what they vrere for. He said they were for children to ride in when they got tired. Since I vvas the youngest in our group I thought there vvas a chance for me to get a ride and everyone take turns in pushing me, but I had to walk. Next time vre go there, 1 hope I get a chance to ride. After dinner vre vvent to SNPJ hali vvhere Mr. Kuhel vvent over our songs vvith us. He is a lot of fun, and can he play the piano. I’m tak- ing piano lessons and some dav I hope I can play like him. The afternoon program vvas grand I liked the “Umbrella Man,” and “Fest Fant” best of ali. Yes, it vvas a real lot of fun and vve came home happy, and vvant to thank you ali for mak¬ ing it so. Olga Stampfel, (Age: 9) Vrtec No. 33 Milvvaukee, Wis. — It vvas on May 13th that vve left Milvvau¬ kee to go to Chicago for the Second Vrtec Cultural Festival of our SSPZ. When vve reached our destination and got off the elevated trains, oh! hovv my in- sides felt. While riding vve savv through second-story kitchen and dining room vvindovvs, peo¬ ple eating supper that made us hungry, but soon vve arrived at our destination, Berger’s Hotel and didn’t have to vvait long for our supper. One thing that made our supper taste more delicious vvas the jolly polkas Indianapolis group played. The one that vvas most popular vvith them vvas the Beer Barrel Pol¬ ka. While vve vvere eating vve got acquainted vvith nevv friends and greeted old ones, among them Mr. Mirko Kuhel, our su- The youn g man pictured here is R u . dolph Milhar¬ čič of the I n . dianapolis J u . goslavs, Vrtec No. 9. In order that junior members of the SSPZ in other places may knovv him better, we shall give you a brief introduc- tion: Rudolph vvas born January, 5 1922, vvhich makes him 17 years old. Ke vvent to the Holy Trinity Grade School, Cathedral Latin High School for tvvo years, and is novv finishing his secondary education at Washington High School. He is 5 feet 6 inches tali, and vveighs about 125 lbs. Has blond hair and blue eyes. He goes under the nicknames of Chuck and Mickey Rooney, the reason for the latter being apparent from the picture. He has been the recipient of tvvo prizes for literary contributions to the Vrtec Section of Napre¬ dek during this year. He vvrites us: “I vvant to take this oppor- tunity to thank you for both avvards. The avvards are a fine incentive for story vvriting, but they are not the prime reason for sending you the stories. It gives me a great pleasure to vvrite stories for a lodge paper, my ovvn lodge paper, the Napre¬ dek. I vvill try to vvin more avvards by vvriting more and better stories.” preme treasurer and an old friend, and Mr. Škorjanc, vvhom vve came to knovv at the con- vention at Milvvaukee. When vve vvere almost finished vvith sup¬ per, in came my mother’s old acquaintance, Mr. Zupančič. At this time I vvant to thank Mr. and Mrs. Zupančič for their kind hospitality in making us feel very vvelcome in their home. The Indianapolis group vvent to a dance at vvhich they said they had a vvonderful time. Hovv could you have fun vvhen you’re packed like sardines vvhile riding? At last Sunday morning came. After breakfast, vve vvent to Brookfield zoo, led by Joe Potsch and Andrevv 0 ’Bosla. What a sight! One of the most modern and complete zoos in the United States. One of the ani- mals vve savv vvas Mei-Mei, the baby panda, vvho is only tvvo years old and vveighs 175 lbs. “Boy, is that a large family of elephants!” vvas the remarks of one of the visitors. After vve journeyed ali through the park, vve came to the last building' housing numerous an i m a 1 s, birds, and reptiles. I never in my life savv so many snakes and such large ones. The largest snake vvas the diamond-back rattlesnake. This snake vvas 33 Continued on page 3 of regular section