JUVENILE SECTION OF "NAPREDEK" CLEVELAND, OHIO, MAY 15, 1940 National Vrtec Festi¬ val Takes Spotlight The National Vrtec Festival, the one event we ali have been iooking forward to with in- creasing interest and excite- ment as the weekly reports in “Napredek” became more and more numerous, will take plače in its finest splendor this Corn¬ ing Sunday afternoon in the Slovene National Home, Cleve¬ land, Ohio. In this Festival, as you have read on many oc- casions, will appear talented boys and girls who are mem- bers of Active Vrtec Units of the S.S.P.Z. Included among them will be members from Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania, and counting the “Guest Represen- tatives” who, also, will partici- pate briefly in the program, you may add New York, West Vir¬ ginia and Minnesota, embracing a total of eight states in ali. By MICHAEL VRHOVNIK, Director of Vrtec and English Speaking Lodges .. - <■ . . HONORED FESTIVAL GUESTS Vrtec No. — Name Plače 5 William Wapotich .... . Cleveland, Ohio 5 Edward Stokel . Cleveland, Ohio 9 Louis Znidersich . Indianapolis, Ind. 11 Robert Zaman ... Cleveland, Ohio 13 George J. Tirpak . Madison, lil. 44 Agnes Tekstur . Ambridge, Pa. 72 Julia Kramzer .,. Sggan, Pa. 89 Evagene Chad . Eveleih, Minn. 139 Williarn Tršar . Chicago, lil. 140 Marg Klevisher . Pierce, W. Va. 148 Violet Widgag . Goivanda, N. Y. 169 Ella Yuvancic . Bridgeville, Pa. 171 Florence Žitko . Cleveland, Ohio fr-.fr --fr ■ — > . 1NTRODUCING ONCE MORE OUR FESTIVAL GUESTS tivity taken in the Society, for our records disclose that ali but two of the “Guest Kepresenta- tives” hold or, at one time or other, held important executive otiices in their Vrtec. They have the qualities which make for good leadership: loyalty, courage, aggressiveness and sincerity. We are proud to introduc© once more to you the “Guest Representatives” who, directlv or indirectly, helped to add L the Society’s membership near ly 300 other boys and girls, an achievement worthy of great. honor. They are some of lomov- row , s leaders. A grand spectacle is in store for us next Sunday; a collection of cultural entertainment worth far more than the priče of ad- mission asked. Anything short of an over-crowded auditorium will be a keen disappointment to the visitors, for numbered among them will be not only relatives and friends of the par- ticipants but, also, the Dele- gates to the lOth Regular Con- ventiun, Supreme Officers and “Guest Representatives.” They will come to Cleveland fully ex- pectant of seeing a succession of juvenile performances unsur- passed in S.S.P.Z. history. Per- sonally, I believe they will and think that even Cleveland mem¬ bers, who are more or less used to frequent exhibitions of high type entertainment, will be sur- prised by the talent that will be presened by youngsters Corn¬ ing from small towns like Stra- bane and Bon Air, Pa., Girard, Ohio, Madison, Ul., and not to forget the central vvestern cit- (Continued on page 6) It was a long wait, and a& impatient one for most of them, but at last the time has arrived for their reward. . . . That promised FREE TRIP to Cleveland and plače of high honor at the National Vrtec Festival, sight-seeing and other forms of amusement and enter¬ tainment, ali will be reality in just a few more days. It was some months ago when we first introduced to you, in- aividually and later collective- ly, through mere mention of names and also through pic- tures and biographical sketches, the successful contestants of our Juvenile Festival Campaign. They will be honored and feted at the National Vrtec Festival this coming Sunday as “Guest Representatives,” a title which in itself carries little weight or meaning and one, I’m sure, fails to do justice to them for the important part they played in the recent growth and prog- ress of our Society. | NOTICE I Ali those aiding in the I presentation of “Growing . f Up” are requested to be > l present at 1 P.M. Satur- | day, May 18th on the I .stage of the Slovene Au- I ditorium, 6417 St. Clair £ When the Juevnile Festival Campaign opened last October, we had to have some one from among the Vrtec members to volunteer as contestants, for without contestants there could- n’t very well be a Festival Campaign, at least not like the one proposed in the rules. As I remember, the campaign was hardly two weeks old when the first entry, that of MARY KLEVISHER of Pierce, W. Va.., was received. . . . And the very next day, another entry was re¬ ceived from JULIA KRAMZER of Sygan, Pa., and then, in the succeeding weeks, there came others until a total of fifteen contestants filed their names and began the task of helping to enroll new members. It took a great deal of cour¬ age in the frist plače to enter the Festival Campaign, and to some of the boys and girls it meant a lot of extra work co- operating and assisting as best they could in the enrollment of the quota of new members re- quired by the rules. It’s true, I admit and so do they, that most of the ground-work had to be done by some adult member, 'father or mother, Administra¬ tor, relative or friend; someone more experienced in the ways of campaigns and lodge affairs. . . . But back of each effort on their part was some boy or girl in whom confidence was held that some day that same boy or girl would take up-on his (her) shoulders the full responsibilitv of continuing the work and pro- gress of the local lodge and Vrtec. Helping them to suc- cess in the Festival Campaign was intended as a reward for v/hat they already had accom- plished and, in part, for \vhat v/as expected of them in the future. That they deserved this recognition and hončr is proven by the interest and ac- BETTY JANE BERNIK “Balkan Jrs.” Vrtec No. 33 Milvvaukee, Wis. LILLIAN ULLE ALBERT ULLE Anniversary of the Concordians Spartan Juniors Concordian’s h a ve ended their first year of activity and are embarking on their second. The first year proved to be successful, and we hope the second vviil be just as success¬ ful, if not rpore so. We celebrated this occasion with a party which was held after our regular meeting April 23. The meeting started peace- fully and continued so until our administratvix passed out our drill team pictures. From then on there wasn’t any peace. The meeting ended abruptly and a questionnaire was begun. After that games were played and re- freshments were served. The questionnaire proved- to be very interesting, and today the members are probably anx- iously awaiting the paper for results/ Here they are: Dolly Svetlic — prettiest, and smartest girl and b e s t marcher. Richard Mott — nicest boy. Eddie Zupančič — most comical and laziest boy. Angy Pevec — Mary Menich— tied for most polite plače. Mary Menich—taliest, most athietic. Berniee Mott — smallest girl. Best member — too many argu - ments. Best singers — Mary Menich, . Dolly Svetlic, Florence Ponik¬ var. Best dancers — Dorothy Gre¬ benc and Rita Holland. Best dressed — Dorothy Gre¬ benc. . First at meetings are Angy Pe¬ vec and Betty Novak, while the last to arrive are Mary Menich and Doily Svetlic. For those \vho are curious, cur maseot is “Stinky,” the parrot, and our colors are yel- lovv and brovvn. G ur flovver is the yeilow rose. Ali in ali we had a good time and are eagerly avvaitihg our next meeting which will be held Tuesdav, May 28 in Room 2 of the Slovene Natoinal Home at 7:30 p. m. Mary Menich, Sec’y. Vrtec 171. P. S. On May 28 we will consisting of juvenile taleut from five dirferent States vviil begin at 3:00 p. m. After the program ,there vviil be dancing to Johnny Pecon’s orchestra. Tickets are only 25c. The Concordians’ thoughts are ali vvrapped up in the com- SPORTS SPOTLIGHT By Bill Wapotich Our last meeting was _fairly veli attended, but, among the other things we discussed vvas an outing, planned for some time in June at Metropolitan Park. More will be discussed on this subject at our next meeting vvhich will be held June 14, at the Slovene Na¬ tional Home. We vviil also discuss plans for a baseball team. At our last" meeting our administra¬ tor, Matt Debevec, said that we couldn’t enter in any leagues because there aren’t any league for boys of our age, and that we vvould not have uniforms because our treasury vvouldn’t be able to stand it. We have bats and balls and vvould play against teams such as the Out- lookers at picnics, or play games against other teams on Saturdays. Any boys vvishing to play are vvelcomed to do so a,nd are asked to come to our next meeting. Our skating party vvas fairly vvell attended. About ’forty members had an enjoyable evening of roller skating. But our lodge had to pay a dollar for printing charges, and be¬ cause vve didn’t sell.enough tic¬ kets vve didn’t make any profit on our venture. \ Baseball has already started for another full season. Among the more notable events during the first fevv vveeks vvere t.he no-hit games by Bob Feller of the Cleveland Indians against the Chicago White Sox in the opening of the season, also Tex Carleton’s no hitter against the Cincinnati Reds. But the most notable event is the recent siump of the Nevv York Yankees. Many people can’t figure out vvhafs vvrong vvith the team vvhich vvon four vvorld championships in a rovv. Many tliink that the Yankees are only in a siump and soon vviil puli out of it, vvhile others think that the Yankees are done for, and that their great team has finally fallen apart. Only time vviil teli vvhat is the matter vvith the Yankees. This is ali for novv, and un¬ til I rcturn next month I re- rnain your Sports Spotlight Re¬ porter, Bill Wapotich. ing festival. That day, the Concordettes, first drill team in the S.S.P.Z., vviil exhibit for the very first time. To the tune of Johnny Pecon’s orchestra, they vviil march along in their colorful uniforms. As we vviil have the largest number of par- ticipants, vve should try to seli ali the tickets vve have and rc- tum the moncy to our adminis- tratrix, Marge Jene. Natalie Svetlic, Preš. Vrtec 171. Ambridge, Pa. — This is Vrtec 44 broadcasting from Ambridge, Pa., the home tovvn of the Comets’ Vrtec. Gee, time certainly does fly! Here it is May already and the Vrtec Cultural Festival vviil soon be here, in fact just a fevv aays off. I have been looking forvvard to this grand occasion vvhich vviil be held in Cleve¬ land, Ohio. I knovv that ITI have a grand time meeting ali those niče people. It vviil b e program vviil be very niče. The “Rožmarin” Slovene Sing- ing Society of Ambridge held its second concert on April 28. The “Rožmarin” Singing So- ciety put on a splendid perform- ance. Miss Wilma Makalic and Miss Virginia Žiberna sang so- los and Mrs. Stella Peltz and Miss Helen Hockevar sang a duet. Their songs vvere en- joyed by ali vvho vvere present. A highlight of the program vvas the singing of Slovene songs by our guest soloist, Miss Anne Gačnik of Cleveland, Ohio. This charming young lady vvas born in Ambridge, but moved to Cleveland. We certainly are sorry that Anne aoesn’t live in Ambridge because she vvould make a very good member of our “Rožmarin” Singing So- ciety. I am sure that everyone enjoyed listening to the songs that she sang for us. We ali extend our thanks to Miss Anne Gačnik of Cleveland and may she sing for us again in the near future. Ajl in ali the “Rožmarin” Concert vvas a real succešs. I extend my congratulations to this vvonderful singing society, and maj: this soeiety continue to prosper in the years to come, under the leadership of Mr. Michael Halovach, The “Prešerin” Singing So- ciety of Pittsburgh, the visit- ing choir sang a number of songs and they should also be commended for theri splendid singing." I am sure djhat ali vvho vvere present also enjoyed dancing to the melodious strains of Jack Persin’s Orchestra from Ohio. The “Rožmarin” society vvishes to thank everyone attending from Ambridge and ali the other tovvns. This month, the follovving Comets’ members are celebrat- ing their birthdays: Mary Yan- char, Charles Bono, VVilliam Plese, Margaret Tekstar, Mar¬ shall Grosdeck, Charles Gros- deck Jr., John Georgiadis, Jos¬ eph Yeager, Steve Vuknirovec, Ann Vuknirovic, Stanley Uher- nik, William Knafelc, and So- phie Tekstar.’ In behalf of Vrtec 44 I vvish everyone of these members a very “Happy Birthday!” Mrs. Caroline Kochevar, mem¬ ber of Lodge 41 S.S.P.Z. is on the sick list. I vvish Mrs. Koch¬ evar a very speedy recoverv. Well, I guess I’ll be signing off but I’ll be back again next month vvith nevvs about the Vrtec Festival. Agnes Tekstar, Sec’y., Vrtec 44. COMETS’ COLUMN Ambridge, Pa. —This month, as in the previous months, a number of our Vrtec members must leave our Vrtec and join the higher ranks. This month William Knafelc vviil be trans- ferred to the adult lodge No. 41. Bill vvas a very good member of our Vrtec and has served one year as Vice-President of our Vrtec. He vvas a member of our Vrtec soft-ball team since it vvas first organized. He also participated in the athietic meets at Cleveland Bridgeville. This young fellovv vvas a very good player on our softball team, having pitched many games vvhich brought victory to our Vrtec Softball Team. The Comets’ Vrtec vvish Wil- liam Knafelc ali the lučk and success in the years to come. Agnes Tekstar, Sec’y., Vrtec 44. We have foundjthat one night of the vveek is the vvorst for most persoifs sleep. That is 3unday night] Sleep for this night is belovv par, not because Sunday is a day of rest, but largely be¬ cause it is also a day of neglect- ing the usual habits around vvhich each individual life is strong!y organized. Blue Mon- day can be better understood in vievv of Sunday night treating us to the most.disturbed sleep of the vveek. TOMMY LESKOŠEK “Balkan Jrs.” Vrtec No. 33 Milwaukee, VVis. May 15, 1940 Ju venile Section of “Napredek” PAGE 3 THEY SAY: By Rudy Lisch Dawn Patrol Sylvia Skedel, administra- trix of Vrtec No. 112, Bon Air, Pa .—“Josephine Martinčič — is our most talented member. She has taken part in numerous af- fairs receiving thunderous re- sponse for her ability in tap dancing and singing.” About John Klajder she says: “He plays the accordian with such ability that there is no end to the applause for more. He is most warmly recommend- ed by our community.” Virginia Korber is only seven years of age but, says Sylvia, “For that age she is exception- ally able in her performance. She has a lovely voice and will touch your heart with her tap- ping feet.” Elma M. Qualiza, administra- trix from Indianapolis, Indiana, says, “Gordon Kronoshek, our boy soprano has been studying at Arthur Jordan Conservatory of Musič with great results. He has a regular spot on the radio every Saturday. His appear- ance before clubs, in hotels and shows in Indianapolis have made him a recognized figure here. He appeared with suc- cess^jn Joliet in 1939.” VVith this record behind Gor¬ don we are sure he will be a hit in Cleveland. Elma goes on to say, “Leo Robas, our accordian king has been our selection twice for Chicago appearances. He has years of experience and has been popular with the crowds at numerous dance affairs.” Victor Zupančič, one of our most ardent administrators of S.S.P.Z. Vrtec’s hails from Chi¬ cago. His enthusiasm and en- ergy leave much for younger men to desire. Victor says, “As administrator of Vrtec No. 160 nothing could fill my wish more than to have our four most able Chicago entertainers a id you in your festival ar- rangement in Cleveland.” Edvoard Udovich, our eleven year old master of stage ap- peal, plays the guitar and sings Slovene and English songs. His small stature has won over the public in some twenty odd per- formances. In addition to his talent his comedy produces hi- larious laughter. Mary Lou Gratchner and Mary Jo Townsley are not ordi¬ nat tap dancerš. Their float- ing tempo is a marvelous sight. A coincident for this duo is that Mary Lou Gratchner is a real aunt to Mary Jo Townsley. Both are of the same age. IVilma Gratchner plays the piano well. She also accom- panies the aforementioned čast. We are confident our presenta- tion will be \vorth your efforts.” Sophie Stampfel of Milwaukee Vrtec writes us: “Bcfty Jane Bernik, our little eight year old girl is called our “Queen of Song and Dance.” Betty re- ceived her first start in 1937 at our Vrtec Christmas celebration and since then she has gone far in pleasing audiences. Chicago has had the privilege twice to > be entertained by Betty.” Tommy Leskošek is our nine year old lad who plays a piano accordian. On every amateur program he has participated, first prize went to him. He was selected on one occasion to ap- pear at Lyon Club’s National Convention.” Tommy has the “Sharp Shooters March” to thrill you, “Beautiful Days” to fascinate you and “Dekle Moja” to please you with. Betty Jane will be “Your Only Star in my Blue Heaven” when she sings and, by-golly, you’ll wish it was the days “When Pa was Courting Ma,” when her nimble feet tickle the hardwood. Shell give you some tumbling moments of your life when she presents her acro- batics. Frances Vrhovnik of Stra- bane, Pa., administratrix of Vrtec No. 10 says: “Miss Grace Vivian Beton is a graduate of the Jane Vella Schoo^of Sing¬ ing and Dancing and has for the past several years been one of Western Pennsylvania’s most talented juvenile entertainers. EST “Her personal appearances date back to June, 1934, when she appeared as first prize win- ner on Sunny Jim’s WJAS Chil- dren’s program, and as a first prize winner on Brauns Baking Program. She was taken on tours of many cities in Penn- sylvania as a featured enter- tainer at banquets and thea ; ters. “In June of 1935 she was featured as one of the youngest talented stars in ‘Pittsburgh On Parade’ at the Harris Alvin Theater in Pittsburgh. ^ “Since that time Miss Beton has made personal appearances at Motor Square Gardens in Pittsburgh, at the Hotel Roose¬ velt for the ‘Dance Masters of America.’ She received an au- dition for Major Bowes Ama¬ teur Hour in New York City and has appeared in the “Melt- ing Pot” in Cannonsburg, at Washington Theater, and at Eagles’ Auditorium in Wash- ington, Pa. She appeared by special request at many night clubs and social parties. She has also been featured in ali Vrtec programs. “Miss Beton is most out- standing as a singer and tap dancer. She has an attractive personality and much stage tal¬ ent.” Julia writes from Girard (Cleveland knotvs Julia as a former Spartan Secretary), “Irene Rovan of Girard Vrtec No. 30 is a competent piano player. She has been featured in school programs and has ap¬ peared in a number of outstand- ing recitals.” “I have heard Irene play Jo- Govvanda, N. Y.—By the tinie this letter is in print ali the delegates will be happily pack- ing their bags and \vaiting for that big day. You know this week is going to go very slo\v because I am ali excited and can hardly wait to be off on my first train ride. Well, here’s hoping we ali get their safely and ali feeling good. Our next meeting on May 12 wi 11 be held at Mentley’s Grove, if weather permits. Here’s hoping it’s a niče day, so we can have our softball game and go on our hike. If the weather does ' not permit, it will be held at the Slovene Hall. Hope to see a big gang at the meeting Sun- day. At the last meeting we made plans for the softball team and . tried to find ways how to earn enough money for the equip- ment. Tickets were sold. We also had a Slovene test prior to the meeting and first prize went to Josephine Stich, second to Billy Dekleva and third to*Eleanor Matekovich. Congratulations on your good work! Before I close I wish ali mem- bers the best of lučk, and I’ll be seeing you ali in Cleveland on Saturday. I also promise to have a long article for next month. Violet Widgay, Treas. Dawn Patrol No. 148 liann Strauss’ ‘Tales of Vienna Woods” as I’ve ne ver heard it played before by anyone years older than she.” Julia contin- ues: “Eva Križaj, Matilda Kri¬ žaj and Helen Mihevic have given pleasant moments to many radio listeners. They have repeated their appear¬ ances by public demand. Their participation in lodge programs were met with loud and long receptions. William Marn plays an ac¬ cordian and plays it well.” We can see that Girard and Salem, Ohio will be well repre- sented. Rose Tirpak from Madison, Illinois, has this favorable com- ment to make about Shirley Joy Uzunoff: “Shirley Joy has stud- ied for six years in a nationally recognized school of dance and mušic. She is a versatile dancer. Her ability includes the art of Ballet, tap and toe danc¬ ing, along with a fine voice. For real talent you just can’t beat Shirley Joy Uzunoff.” We await Shirley in Cleve¬ land with great anticipation. Her pictures denote beauty and character. Cleveland is ready to wel- come this array of talent from East and West with sincere ap- preciation for their vvillingness to participate in what we feel will be the classic of events. “Grovving Up.” S.S.P.Z.’s Na¬ tional Vrtec Cultural Festival preše ntation is offered to the public as a two dollar show at a sacrifice priče of only twenty- five cents. JOSEPHINE MARTINČIČ Vrtec No. 162 Bon Air, Pa. VRTEC NO. 148 Another month has just lapsed, taking away ali the snow and bringing good old spring. I know I am right be¬ cause the boys were out practic- ing softball. Oh what a mob! Keep it up boys! Who’s your captain? Again I am mentiomiig in article our good old fnena oeo. Samson who is stili on the sick list but has promised the boys when he gets well that he will be out there with them. Our deepest sympathy is ex- tended to the Sever family be¬ cause of the death of the father of Phillip who is a Vrtec mem¬ ber.' His father fell from the window where he was working - and died the following day. By the way, Violet, did Prof. let you hove it off to go to Cle¬ veland, and when are you leav- ing? Or isn’t it any of my busi- ness? By the time this article goei| to press our Vrtec meeting will be ali over with. We are plan- ning on having it at the pienie grounds and then going for a niče long hike, Where to, gang? Just a little advice to those who are wonder- ing who I am. My age is between 10 and 12. Not bad looking. The sex I shall not mention. That’!, for you to find out. | Now it’s for the good of che Vrtec and the SSPZ that this convention goes on record as one of the most remarkable evei' held, and to the officers and delegates we Vrtec member! give our fraternal greetings. Un- til \ve meet again, I remain fulj of SSPZ špirit. Your Roving Reporter LEO ROBAS “Jugoslavs” Vrtec No. 9 Indianapolis, Ind, FRED HRIBAR “Outlookers" Vrtec No. 11 Cleveland, Ohio PA.GE 4. Juvenile Section of "‘Napredek" May 15, 1940 Vrtec 72 A DISAPPOINTMENT SPRING VS WINTER Perhaps the \var bet\veen ^Vinter and Spring has ended, giving Spring the honors as the winner of the 1940 struggle, as to who shall reign this begin- ning of spring and thereafter. To me there is no greater joy and beauty than the bursting of spring. Everything is truly bursting; blossoms burst in col- ors "of elegance, the Cool air bursts with its fine cool, per- fumed aroma. Spring after the peace pact \vas signed, burst in hilarious laughter of gladness, while 01 d Man Winter is in con- stant study as to how he will repay spring and perhaps ruin our crops. Oh, hum!' I too am bursting. Not from over eating, but with spring fever. Be careful, people, it may be along you line. * * * TOO THRILLED Honestly, Fm so thrilled and excited over the coming Festi¬ val, I can’t think of anything else. Gee, we’ll have loads of Fun, loads of friendships and ihemorable moments. Before we know it, we’ll be off for the trip. I shall not write much more, but in closing I would like to say, let’s ali cooperate in every respect, so as to make this oc- casion the most successful. Bye now! See you in Cleve¬ land! Julia C. Kramzer A TRIBUTE TO MOTHER Although the article is slight- ly late for the Mother Day cele- bration, I only hope the mean- ing and sincere love for moth¬ er will remain with us through- out the year, instead of j ust the one day set aside for mothers. There is one great journey in this life and only one. It ends with the grave. The swiftest word is Time. The nearest word is Now. The meanest word is Hypocrasy. The broadest word is Truth. The strongest word is Right. The truest word is Love. The sweet- est vvord is Home. And the dear- est word is MOTHER. Hovv poor the man \vho has never felt the presence of a mother’s kiss and in the corridor of whose memory there lingers no sound or echo of a mother’s voice. Once a man gave a touching instance of a mother’s devo- tion, referring to the death of Aliče. Her little boy lay strick- en with diptherla. Stretching out her arms, he cried, “Mam¬ ina, kiss me.” Though strongly cautioned to keep away from her babe, she answered the boy’s lappeal and took him in her Jnotherly arms, and they lald [them to rest in the same grave. Children of today, obey her filways! She may be wrong at times but why hurt her feel- ings ? Remember> we have but Perhaps you recall the terri- ble time I had last month when we did our spring house-clean- ing. Do you remember ali of the misery I got into? Well, my evening was even worse. Several days before, I found cut that I was to experience for the first time in my li'fe the thrill ???? of a blind date. I could scarcely wait. And I was so jittery I didn’t know what to do. “Will he like me, \vill I like him?” These were the questions which had me on edge for days. One of my friends first met her husband on a blind date. I didn’t need a wave because I had just gotten one the day before, but after ali of that housework, I did need a mani- cure. I had a new pink suit which I had never worn before and I decided that this was the time to wear it. Now, the man of my dreams has always been, well shall I say, “tali, dark and hand- some?” His hair must be brown and curly. Do you blame me when I immediately jumped to conclusions and expected him to fulfill my dreams? Finally 8:30 arrived. It was raining. By the time I got to the car I was nearly soaked, and you should have seen my suit, but worse of ali you should have seen my hair. To make matters worse my date was a big, big, big, disap- pointment. Did 1 say big? Well, he sure was big. He was almost as broad as he was long. Where was that beautiful brown hair and where were those brown eyes? Where was my dream? Ali I could see was someone with hair like straw. He had little, watery blue eyes, and on top of ali this he was a full three inches shorter than I was. After an hour or so o'f at- tempting to make a conversa- tion I discovered that he was a graduate of dear old Washing- ton High. After getting only grunts in answer to my ques- tions, I finally got around to the subject of sports. Will wonders never cease? I finally got him to talk and could he talk! After he got wound I could scarcely get a word. in edge-wise. Talk about women gabbing, I don’t think we have a thing on the men! We talked about basket-ball and we played over every game of the last season. From there we went to football. Then it was track, and from there we played every football and bas- ketball game and ran every track meet since he had gradu- ated in ’35. Next came boxing. It was then and only then that I noticed a cauliflower ear and a broken noše. Yes, you guessed it. I was having a date with a prize-fighter. At eleven when he brought me home he was stili talking about “I, I, I, and I.” I quickly retired with a headache and needless to say I quite properly squelched him when he brought me to the door. It was then that I slid and fell in my haste to get inside the house. That night I swore never to have another blind date again. (Till the next time.) Wilma Mergole, Vrtec 9. asaHttssssejaooossr NOTICE! Ali out - of - town and % Cleveland participants of the SSPZ National Vrtec C uit ur al Festival Musical Revieiv “Grivoing Up" are to be preselit Saturdai/, May 18tli on the stage of the Slovene National Home 6417 St. Clair Ave., Cleve¬ land, Ohio not later than 2 1 p.m. Left to right: MATILDA KRIŽAJ HELEN MIHEVIC EVA KRIŽAJ “Budgets” Vrtec No. 30 Girard, Ohio one Mother. No greater truth was spoken when we utter the \vords ,the only sorrow and pain a mother may commit is when she passes away and we, weak- lings, must go on without her. Oh, Lord! Why is there death of such lasting loves? Submitted by Julia C. Kramzer GRACE BETON “Challenger Jrs.” Vrtec No. 10 Strabane, Pa. Mountaineers PATH OF LIFE This spring thousands of boys and girls will lay aside their books and step forward into a different world. These are the graduates, who have been preparing for this day. For twelve long years we have stood at the door and now it is about to open. As each one is presented with a diploma, many thoughts may run through our mind. We may think of the beautiful friend¬ ships we have enjoyed, which is one of the brightest spots of our school days; but now our school chums will scatter far and near like the leaves that are blown by the wind. Yes, friendship is one of the most beautiful of school day experi- ences, and, yet, ali beautiful things must end and leave with us just happy memories. Many of us will march down the aisle with bowed heads and a tear in our eyes, for perhaps never again shall ali of us be assembled together. We leave an old road for a branch of a new road and leave behind us a path for the rest to follow. And, as an important chapter in the book of life is about to end, we shall stri ve to reach our goal — suceess, in what- ever we may undertake. Most graduates have chosen their career and will begin to pre- pare for it. Whatever our vo- cation, we shall each play an important part in the progress of mankind. Some will climb the ladder of success slowly, others fast; and the ones that will succeed are those that have the cour- age, ambition, and strength. We may not succeed quickly but we must continue our ef- forts. For the last twelve years we have been citizens of a school, a small community in itself. Now we will have responsibili- ties, some of which are: good citizenship, honesty, courage, and many others. The prob- lems of tomorrow will have to be solved by us. With ali these happy thoughts there is a sad one. It is the thought that will leave a dark page in history—war. We think of the terrible thing man is do- ing to one another. There is no glory in war, and it only leaves behind unhappiness. We shall not be in a world of peace but one at war. Youths shall lose their lives in the field of battle. We know how much suffering war brings to the masses, and we should try to live in harmony with ali peo¬ ple of the world—no matter of what race or creed they may be. And, as we depart with our diplomas, we should each make a vow to do everything that will bring progress to mankind, for only then can we enjoy peace. Mary Klevisher, Treas., Vrtec. 140. May 15, 1940 Juveoile Sectkm ot ,r N^predefc” SLOVENE PROGRESSIVE BENEFIT SOCIETY PRESENTS c'A National “Vrtec” Cfestival with ORIGINAL MUSICAL REVIEW “ Qrowing Up” In Four Acts Arranged by Rudolph Lisch Assisted by John Kikol and Vatro J. Grili Poetry by Mirko G. Kuhel Musič by John Pecon and Orchestra In Colaboration with Members and Lodges of Cleveland’s SSPZ United Lodges. Vrtec No. 171 CONCORDIANS, Cleveland, Ohio Vrtec No. 9 JUGOSLAVS, Indianapolis, Indiana Vrtec No. 13 MADISON, ILLINOIS Vrtec No. 112 BON AIR, PA. Vrtec No. 33 MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN Vrtec No. 160 ROŽNIK JRS., Chicago, Illinois , Vrtec No. 30 GIRARD, OHIO Vrtec No. 10 CHALLENGER JRS., Strabane, Penna. Vrtec No. 11 OUTLOOKERS, Cleveland, Ohio Vrtec No. 5 SPARTAN JRS., Cleveland, Ohio “GROWING UP” ACT I. “Forward March” Overture — John Pecon Orchestra Drill Parade — Concordettes ACT II. “Dream Comes True” “Golden Voice” ... Gordon Kronoshek “Dream Girl” ... Shirleg Joy Uzunoff “Serenading” .— Leo Robas “Eyes Up” . Virginia Korber “Trickling Keys” ... Tommy Leskovec “Tumbling Queen” . Betty Jane Bernik “Pleasant Notes” ...-. Fred Hribar “Snappy Rhythm” .. John Klajder “Responding Notes” ... . Josephine Martinčič “Keys That Please” . Wilma Gratchner “Dancing Dno” ....Mary Jo Toivnsleg, Mary Lou Gratchner “Gag Cavalcro” ...-.. Edivard Udovich “Musič We Love” .. Irene Rovan “Waltz Time” . Lillian Ulle, Albert Ulle ACT ra. “Everybody’s Happy” “KAZNOVANI ŠALJIVEC” — (Penalized Jester) Joe Godec — Betty Tushar — Julia Godec “Let’s Be Friends” . William Marn “Grace In Glorg” .r.. Grace Beton - “Together >> “Queen of Pleasure” “Tapping to Your Heart” “Bold Gesture” “Harmong Trio” Matilda Križaj, Helen Mihevic, Eva. Kriza] “ Beats Your Heart” “Gag Slovene Musič” . Vadnal Orchestra “Met With Grace” ACT IV. “FINALE” Looking Forward (Tableau) — Spartan Jrs. Helen Papesh, Elsie Drobnič, Dorothy Nemanich, Delores Rossman Mary Mulec, Anthony Sterle, Frank Popotnik, Frank Rebol, Raymond Grili “Mladi stari materi” ... Marion Rebol (By M. G. Kuhel) “The Three Links” .. Aliče Popotnik (By M. G. Kuhel) “PLEASED TO MEET- YOU” — Contest Winners Evagene Chad Mary Klevisher Julia Kramzar Edward Stokel Agnes Tekstar Violet Widgay George Tirpak Ella Yuvancic William Tršar Robert Zaman William Wapotich Florence Žitko Louis Znidersich “Theme Song” “Curtain” Presenting the Čast: Joseph Levstek — Mary Nemanich Vatro J. Grili NA pravi ipcnm Vatro J. Grili, urednik “Napredka” MLADINSKI KULTURNI FESTIVAL, katerega prireja naša Zveza v zvezi s svojo 10. redno kon¬ vencijo v Clevelandu, je dogodek, ki je vreden, da ga podčrtamo in zabeležimo kot čisto poseben in svoje¬ vrsten pojav. Nobena druga bratska organizacija med nami še ni podvzela kaj sličnega — preostalo je za najmanjšo podporno edinico v ameriški Sloveniji, da je zasadila plug v ledino ter pokazala na možno¬ sti, ki se odpirajo pred nami, ako imamo voljo in ra¬ zum, da jih izrabimo in razvijemo za naš lastni in obči blagor. Kot je razvidno iz vzporeda, ki je priobčen na drugem mestu v tej knjižici, nastopijo na priredbi Prvega narodnega mladinskega festivala SSPZ vsakovrstni talenti, ki so dospeli v Cleveland iz nič manj kot petih različnih držav. S tem so zvezani finančni stroški, ki so za organizacijo take velikosti kot je SSPZ že znatni. Dejstvo, da se jih organizacija ni ustrašila, predstavlja do¬ kaz, da idealizem, ki je nekoč preveval naše organizirano življenje, še ni umrl med nami. Pri vsem tem je treba tudi pomisliti, koliko podrobnega dela je mo¬ ralo biti izvršenega od strani dečkov in deklic, ki se vam danes pred¬ stavljajo na odru S. N. Doma v Clevelandu; koliko dolgih ur je ta iz¬ brana mladež posvetila učenju in vežbi, da vam je sposobna podati ta¬ ko pester in zanimiv program, kot ga imate danes priliko gledati pred seboj. In koliko dolarjev so dali njihovi starši učiteljem petja, glasbe in plesa, da so se njih sinovi in hčerke dosegli tisto stopnjo izurjenosti, da lahko stopijo na oder in podajo publiki sad in užitek svojega učenja. Prišel bo čas, ko slovenstva v Ameriki kot ta pojem danes umemo, ne bo več; ko bo naše življenje prešlo v ogromni tok ameriške družbe in v njem izgubilo svojo izrazito identiteto. Slovenske naselbine se bodo polagoma drobile, naša govorica zamrla, naša pesem utihnila. Ni prijet¬ na ta misel; človeka zazebe ob nji. Ampak brezmiselno.bi bilo prikrivati nekaj, kar je neizogibno in torej mora priti. Vemo pa, da kot kul¬ turen narod ne moremo izginiti brez sledu, da bistvo tega, kar smo in kar ustvarjamo, bo ostalo in živelo dalje v novi, prerojeni obliki. To je krepilna in navdihujoča zavest, katere nas ne more oropati nobena sila. Smo delavci pri gradnji veličastne nove kulture, kakršne svet še ni videl — kulture ki ima svoje korenike v narodih in plemenih sveta in ki bo resnično služila sreči in blagostanju vsega človeštva. Naš mladinski kulturni festival je delo v pravi smeri in dokaz, da korakamo po pravi poti. PAUL ti - xX KJX hvapredek” May 15, 1940 With Our Juniors (Continued from- page 1) ies of Chicago, Milvvaukee and Indianapolis. It will be inter- esting to compare one perform- ance with another to see which excels. That they will be pre- pared to give the best that’s in them, there is not a doubt in my mind, and my only hope is that the audience will be in a recep- tive and appreciative mood, even to the breaking point, for these youngsters, like most of us grovvn-ups, require encour- agement in order to do their very best. As I sit here writing, I vvon- der how many of the boys and girls who have received and ac- cepted invitations to participate in the Festival Program, are even now anxious!y watching the hands of the clock as they slowly move on to that eventfu! day when theyl>egin to journev to Cleveland vvhere they will be the instrumental keys in the crowning achievement of S.S. P.Z. Juvenile cultural entertain- ment. Putting myself in their shoes, I can just imagine how exčited and thrilled they must be and, maybe, a little bit scared, too, at vvhat looms before them as a great adventure in their yo«ng lives. And there is no question that it will.all end as a memor- '•able adventure to most of them; one to which much importance is attached because Cleveland and the country over whieh they vvill travel, especially for those coming from distant points, vvill be new and strange. The Participants and “Guest Representatives” living in or near Cleveland vvill miss out on this particular treat, but there -vvill be lots of enjoyment and fun in it for them, too, for here is presented an opportunity to make nevv friends by mixing with fellow-member celebrities from other states. It offers them a chance to play hosts to up-and-coming youthful leaders and shovv them what Cleveland has that their home tovvns or cities don’t have; it is this side of the Festival that vvill yield the most riches to our young members and the Soeiety. It is in contacts o’r’ this nature, building friendship and respect for others, developing cultural desires through inspiring spec- tacles such as the Festival vvill present, that our greatest in- vestment lies. Cleveland Com- mittees, vvho have vvorked months to perfect this program, deserve highest. praise. One cannot thank enough leaders of the c.aliber of Rudolph Lisch, John KiJcol, William CandOn. Krist Stokcl, Anton Wapotich. Franj:- Pucel, Ann Opeka, Agncs Jeric, John Zaman, Matthcv) Debevec and hosts of others. who make such National events successful. The S.S.P.Z. is for - tunate to have in one city a group of leaders and uoorkers so wwthy of compliment. cdJuiti go ucLOjcC lO Čil6 (Jni- cago Festivais o± and 1939 for some of the seeds sovvn for our first National Vrtec Festi¬ val, or back a step or two farther to our local Vrtec and Lodge ent : Lainment programs vvhere the talent of ali Partici¬ pants vas initially displayed, but even that vvould not bring us to the real source of discov- eryi and development. That re- quires going into their very homes, 'for, in most cases, there is vvhere they obtained their original start and training. Nearly everything they are, they ovve to their mothers and fathers vvhose encouragement led to study and practice, and no one can take that away from them. Our Vrtec Units, inter¬ ni and National Festivais are merely mediums by vvhich they are afforded opportunities to express their talent in public. . . . And this vve ovve to the combined efforts and expense of local and national leaders and members of the Society. We are fortunate to belong to a Society that makes this possi- ble. Though I leave much unvvrit- ten about the Festival, the Par¬ ticipants, Guest Representa¬ tives, etc., I must bring this to a close, and in doing so, I hope our first National Vrtec Festi¬ val is our greatest Juvenile success — one that vvill leave memories never to be forgotten in the minds of the participants in the program and those vvho vvill sit back and vvatch it un- fold before their eyes . . . lil be one of them . . . B’cing you there. Last minute instructions per- taining to quarters, payment of traveling expenses, and per diems of Participants and Re¬ presentatives have been for- vvarded to Vrtec Administra- tors. Further information vvill be given at the Festival Head- quarters in Cleveland this Sat- urday. Remember to celebrate Ju¬ venile month in June! Next month marks the fourth year of Juvenile Month Celebrations! Ali active Vrtec units should give attention! THANK YOU! Strabane, Pa. — I vvish to ex- press my sincere appreciation for the gift vvhich I received from the Challenger Juniors, at their last meeting. After being "\vith them for almost five vears, the time has come vvhen I must leave them, much as I regret it. The nevv secretarv eleeted is Dorothy Helay vvho, I feel dure, vvill make a verv geod secretary. I only hope the members vvill cooperate vvith Borothy as they did vvith me and that those vvho have b^en paying their dues regular- ly vvill continue to do so, 'vvhile the members vvho have not been regular vvill soon begin to be. Again my thanks to the mem- i§ One, tvvo, three, four years have passed snce Rožnik Jrs. held their first meeting vvith twenty-four members and now vve have brought this number up to seventy, at vvhich vve do not intend to stop. On May 5, 1940 vve celebrated our Fourth Anniversary vvhich vvas vvell attended by both mem¬ bers, parents and friends. Start- ing off the party vvith a pro¬ gram, Mary Lou, Mary Jo, Ed- die, Angeline and Harold pro- vided entertainment for us. Re- freshments vvere served by Sis- ters Zupančič and Gratchner of Roznik’s 227. Mrs. Zupančič do- nated a beautiful six-piece nee- dle vvork set for the living room, vvhich she had crocheted. After the program, Brother Vrhovnik shovved us moviet, vvhich vve ali enjoyed, consist- ing of movies of Washington, different members of the SSPZ and also pictures of a play in vvhich some of our members took part a fevv years ago. A comedy vvas also presented to the enjoyment of ali. Games and dancing also proved part of the good time had by ali. tovvn at that! Again our Roaming Reporter made a great hit at Preseren’s Concert vvith his super-fine sing- ing. If you don’t knovv vvhom vve mean by R.R., it’s Eddie Udovich. Our thanks go to Louis and William .Zorko for having the vvill and «pirit to come to the committee meeting from such a great distance vvhen most of the others failed to shovv up be¬ cause of the dovvnpour. (And it vvas raining cats and dogs!) Why didn’t Tony Bayt come to Chicago for the Bovvlingf Tournament as he promised he vvould? (We vvonder if a cer- tain someone is vvorried.) Why does Jeanette’s face turn red everytime she passes a cer- tain someone in the hali? Sacred Heart Academy cer- tainly rftust be a vvonderful plače. Bernice is looking svvell since she has been going there. What certain someone has Angeline Možina ali a-flutter since her recital? Was it really Angy’s shoes or the one sitting on the side that kept her from dancing? Three Spies Congratulations, Jeanette and Helen on your achievement in your literary vvork! Let’s see more of those articles in the Napredek. Hovv about some of the rest of you members vvrit- ing. Once you get started you’ll really enjoy it. We have four members cele- bratng birthdays this month. In behalf of the Vrtec vve vvish Evelyn Možina, Mary Lou Gratchner, Joan Caruso and Margaret Skoff a “Happy Birth- day.” Harold Zupančič has vvon the attendance avvard at quite a fevv meetings this year, and believe it or not, Harold is only 9 years old, but comes to every meet¬ ing. Keep up the good record, Harold. Congratulations also to Jack Marinich and Angeline Možina on the splendid vvork they did in the recital of their mušic school! We had quite' a surprise at our last meeting, it being the birthday of our administrator. We had a cake in his honor and really surprised him. See you again next month. Wilma Gratchner, Sec’y Vrtec 160 INSIDE NEWS Too bad Angeline Možina vvas not at the Bovvling Tournament Dance. Her hidden (?) kept asking for her, and from out-of- bers of the lodge and may they have much success in the fu- ture. Lillian Kosmacli, " Vrtec 10. Chicago, 111. — Shouts of “Happy Birthday” greeted Bro¬ ther Victor Zupančič, our ad¬ ministrator vvhen he entered the room in vvhich members of our Vrtec, Rožnik Jrs. vvere holding their meeting. On the table, in ali its glory, vvas a large birth- day cake on vvhich glovved six, ten-year candles. Al though he vvas only 59" years old that ar- rangement of candles seemed most suitable. Brother Vrhovnik opened the meeting vvith an interesting talk. Having Brother Vrhovnik at the meeting came as a surprise both to us and to him because he did not knovv vve vvere hold¬ ing a meeting that evening, as he came to discuss other mat- ters vvith our administrator. It vvas a pleasant sight to see the members enjoying the jello, prepared vvith fruit, soda, and of course, that delicious birth- day cake prepared by Mrs. V. Zupančič. Since there vvere some pies left over, they vvere given avvay to lucky members vvhose names vvere dravvn. On the vvhole an enjoyable time vvas had by ali. Helen Mikrut Vrtec 160 JOHN KLAJDER VVILIHAM MARN Bon Air, Pa. “Budgets” Vrtec No. 162 Vrtec No. 30 Girard, Ohio r v* *i ■T Cleveland Offers : Concordian Jrs. of Cleveland will present a novel unit in Con- cordettes Drill Team. A long, tiring grind of drill, drill, drill under the able guidance of Marye Jeric has turned out a finished group of 3 7 oungsters that will start the shovv on the rnarch. In regalia of blending colors, striking to the eyes, they open a show of splendor. Joe and J ulici Godec and Betty Tushar in “Penalized Jes¬ te r, a play vvithin the musical review “Growing Up” will give the audience a brief moment of able juvenile acting and comedy relief. Joe’s pranks rebound, and results are not too pleasing for him. Mrs. Bashel is direct- ing this unit and you can ex- pect plenty of laughter in the spoken lines and mimicry. Fred Hribar is a featured member of the youthful singing chorus “Slavčki” which is di- rectea by Mr. Louis Seme. Fred has a lovely voice and you can be asured of his best efforts. Marion Rebol offers M. G. KuheVs “Mladi Stari Materi” vvith able characteristics. A bora Slovene whc speaks the language fluently. Aliče Popotnik, an active Vrtec No. 5 member will give you an energetic. interpretation of “The Three Li®ks”, also by M. G. Kuhel. The Statuette Club of the Slovene Workingmen’s Home D) will present the tableau u 'er the direction of Vinko :. This brilliant, almost fantastic ofier vua amaze you. Members of Vr«,ec x,o. 5 will also participate. Tnis tabkau must be seen lo be appreciated, for no description wouu do it justiee. Mr. Con is an artist in Statuette presentuuons. hillian and Albert Lflle in a Waltz Dance vvill steal your heart. They liave actuallv stopped every shovv they have ever appeared on. Hollywood jieed omy send a talent scout once to grab these two young- sters. Clevelanders had * ,any occa- sions to recognize the Vadnal Family orchestra as one of rare ability. These youngsters add life and zest to any program, but in our “Grovving Up” re- view they vvill be superb. Joseph Levstek and Mary Ne- manich vvill introduce the čast as it appears on stage. In the native Slovene customs they make an admirable pair. To top it ali, everyone vvill have the opportunity to meet ali our campaign contest win- ners from parts way out in Minnesota and New York. Thir- teen boys and girls who have given aid in building up bigger and better Vrtec lodges in Min¬ nesota, Wisconsin, Indiana, Il¬ linois, Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio! Greetin & .* to ali far and near, and may your stay in Cleveland te a pleasant one, and your par- ticipation in S.S.P.Z.’s Festi¬ val Revievv be a successful one.' Rudy Lisch. E-jVVaK VVILMA GRATCHNER MARY LOU GRATCHNER, MARY JO TOWNSLEY NIK JRS” VRTEC NO. 160 — CHICAGO, ILL. Jeric, Capt.. Angjr Pevec. Flc. l lc. Rra Hcll d. 4th row left to right: Agncs Lesar,-Mary Menich, Natalir lic. Dorothy Grebence. G D DS AND E N DS The poison secreted by the boe has long been recognized for it s curative properties in cases of rheumatism. Recently, hovv- ever, it has been used vvith un- i oped for success to a therapeii- tic measure for hay-fever. To a-dneve best results treatments should begin as early as May. The bee-poison preparations should be injested in o the skin of the arm three times a vveek in increasiifg doses. As yet vve are unable to say vvhether or not such treatment vvill effect a lasting cure. Prayer of a little girl: “O God, make the bad people good and the good peool n c.o.” Vrtec No. 13 OTNIN Madison, 111. JO LEVETrK \ MA RY N5MANICH “. piro - Jrs.” r' !, c No. 5 r' el " . Ohio GORDON KRONOSHEK "Jugoslavs” Vrtec No. 9 Indianapolis, ind Telephone Booth Gadget In order to cut short the in- terminable telephone conversa- tions of cer Lam ^ues^s, pxo- prietor of a restaurant has in- stalled a set of hot air tubes in each booth. When tvvo minutes are up, hot steam is shot out m-- to th§ small subicle. The person usin gthe telephone is bathed in perspiration. Soon he is unable to endure the -suffocaiing heat any longer, cuts short his cou- versation, and leaves the phone free for the next guest. An ex- cellent idea, according to our opinion! Hitherto the process has been ..d: t-liose outside \ the booih grovv hotter and hot- ter .vvhile the one inside remains quite cool. May 15, 1940 Jt*AGE 8 Juvenile Section of “Napredek” Mihvaukee, Wis.—The month of May brings us fiowers, birds’ song so gay, gently blow the warm breezes, urging trees and ali other miriads of smaller plants and grasses to vigor and progress. Mother Nature in her own way is at its Ufe build- ing work again. Welcome, we greet you, beautiful month of May! Another important event is drawing the attention of the thousands of men and women, as well as the younger genera- tion, in this month of May, to the city of Cleveland, the me- tropolis of v American Slovenes. There the lOth Regular Con- vention of our own S.S.P.Z. will convene. Delegates, pioneers frorn the very beginning of the Organization, young men and ladies o'f a generation that grew up since^the birth of the So- ciety, and last but not least, the third generation, the Videc members, will come to that Con- vention, greet, meet and min- gle with each other. Fraternal feelings, fraternal love, will hold sway, and there should be no other kind of thought amongst brothers and sisters. Their intentions, their work, should be to give advise, do their best and carry* out the instructions of their lodges, for Unity Brotherhood and Prog¬ ress of ali members, old and young, in the S.S.P.Z. Let us strive toward the goal of a fina 1 achievement where. there will be but one, grand Union, the Consolidation of ali Pro¬ gressive Slovene benefit socie- ties into one big organization, with no competition for mem- bership, one aim with the motto: E pluribus Unum! (Ali for one.) My sincere congratulations to the two great sincere, most active workers for the good of the S.S.P.Z. among the younger generation, Brothers Mike Vrhovnik and our own John Maren, and my recommenda- tions and indorsement to the Delegation of S.S.P.Z. for an¬ other term- for these two worthy brothers in their re- spective Jobs. Fraternal love to ali active \vorkers in our Vrtec Lodges, bouquet o'f flov/ers to contribu- tors of articles to our Juvenile Vrtec paper every month. It’s like the igmtion spark vvhich gives the wheelš of life the \vhoIe action and movement up amongst the Vrtec members. Every time I hear that sweet, hvely tune, “ln a Dutch Kin- dergarten Down by the Zender Lee,’’ I think of our Vrtec (or little garden in English) time flying fast; a few more years, and it will be ali over with lit¬ tle garden. We will become of age, we will have to join the adult lodges like many other youngsters before us. (How I miss ' imes that used to appear in the Vrtec Section;) Well, we have some good ar¬ ticles among the present con- tributors. Keep up the good work, boys and girls (in the Vrtec Section). Well, here is hoping and wishing that ali Vrtec Representatives enjov themselves to the utmost while in Cleveland and that the lOth Reg. Convention does a lot of good for ali the members, young and old, in the S.S.P.Z. Fraternally yours, Marie Ermence, Vrtec No. 33. Milwaukee, Wis.—Two meet- ings ago we had a social and this month a regular business meeting without the president or vice president. Let this be a warning to the president that if he won’t attend meetings more often we will have to elect a new one. We certainly don’t want to do that. Also our at- tendance is very poor. For the next meeting let’s have a much larger attendance as we will plan many things for the sum- mer months. Since this May is our third anniversary, we are going to have a hayride party May 26. We will start from Kagel school on 12th and Mineral Street at 4:00 in the afternoon. Bring your lunch, for we are going to have our supper out at the farm. After the hayride we are going to have a bonfire to roast vvieners. Please have your quarter in at Sophie Stampsfel’s house before the 24th. For a good time be sure to come. I am sorry to say that the boys’ baseball team was a com- plete failure. Anyone with ability to play a musical instrument and read notes please notify me befsre the next meeting, June 8th. Norma Stampfel, Sec’y. IRENE ROVAN “Budgets” Vrtec No. 30 Girard, Ohio TO MY DEAR MOTHER There is no one so dear as Mother, and there isn’t a bet- ter friend than Mother when you are in trouble. She will always carry you through, and she will always have a smile rvaiting for you. When with troubles you come, she will make your crises turn into fun. When your Mother gets old and gray, no more can she be so happy and gay. But even then she will al- ways have a great love for you, just as when you were a little ehild. And your worries v/ill be hers, and your Mother will be your sunshine and guide. I stili say and always will, “There is no one as dear as My Mother.” Jeanette Gaber, 12 years old, Vrtec 33. Progressor Juniors Bridgeville, Pa. — As the time draws nearer for my long- planned trip to Cleveland, I await the day eagerly, as I know the other representatives must. I am sure everyone is as anxious in meeting one another as I am. Reading the articles in “Na¬ predek” certainly makes one think of the grand time one can have when a wonderful organi¬ zation as the SSPZ holds a con¬ vention. Ah s\veet mysteries of spring! And here I am getting ready for exams! Can I stay indoors and study? No, indeed. I often think of this question. I sit on the front porch with paper, books and pencil, just thinking ho\v much I can learn the last night. But once I’m ali set to study someone \vill begin a conversa- tion ,and there I start right in. Half of the evening.is over and I haven’t begun studying. (And I don’t start in the other half' either.) I often think a couple of weeks before exams that I will not wait until the last night to dig in, but it always ends up with the night before. Ah sweet mysteries of spring! And here I am stili getting ready for exams! Sincerely, El la Yuvancic Vrtec 169 JULIA GODEC BETTY TUSHAR JOE GODEC Vrtec No. 11 Cleveland, Ohio “Outlookers” i