EUCLID, Ohio — It has been a busy summer, and I can’t believe it’s already time for the new school year to start. Along with school, it’s also time to prepare for the new Youth Circle 2 season. Before I begin to discuss our planned events for the coming year, I’d like to mention a few of our members.

First of all, I’d like to send best wishes and good luck to our graduates, Miss SNPJ 2008 Kristy Zivkovich, Regina Strumbly and Frannie Kocin. All three of these young ladies brought so much talent and maturity to our Circle, and they will be missed. I’m sure they will enjoy their time in college. Please, girls, don’t forget to come back and visit; you are always welcome!

Second, I’d like to congratulate Colleen Frank and Frannie Kocin who competed in this year’s Miss SNPJ Pageant. Unfortunately, due to my own Lodge picnic I couldn’t attend the pageant. I heard they both represented Lodge 158 and Cleveland in such a way that made us all very proud. Colleen did bring home the title of Miss Activity.

The first Circle 2 rehearsal will be held Thursday, Sept. 4, beginning at 7 p.m. at Recher Hall in Euclid. We are looking for new members. I encourage the youngsters to get involved with their Slovenian heritage. This is a wonderful way to get to know more about your heritage and make some new friends as well. If you are interested in joining, please contact me at (440) 974-1321 or kat21_2@hotmail.com.

Mark your calendars now; our fall concert is set for Sunday, Nov. 9, at Recher Hall. The children will perform a short program under the direction of Shirley Ivancic Stall. Following the program, music will be provided by Eddie Rodick. Sandwiches and beverages will be available for purchase. It would be great to see everyone come out for this wonderful event and show support to the children. More information will be provided in upcoming weeks and future PROSVETA articles.
Besides the fall concert, Youth Circle 2 always performs at the Slovene Home for the Aged in Cleveland. I know the residents really enjoy listening to the children perform, as well as having the extra company to visit and share a few laughs and smiles. Of course, what would spring be without the annual Button Box Bash? This is one of the biggest events of its kind, and it never ceases to amaze me how many people come out to enjoy great music, food and dancing. This is one event you do not want to miss.

I look forward to seeing each and every one of you at these events throughout the year. Please remember, it’s important to encourage and support these young children — they are the future of our Society!