North Branch High School - Bronconian Yearbook (North Branch, MI)

Text from Pages 1 - 86 of the 1948 volume:

PROLOGUE open this book is to open again the A doors of North Branch High School, to live again those golden years, to live again that second existence ------------ memory, and to place in history the work and play of the year of 1948. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF — Janis Almas ASSISTANT EDITOR — Shirley Root WE, THE EDITORS CF THE SIGNUM DEDICATE THIS, OUR FIRST ISSUE, TO OUR GRADUATING SENIORS THE SIGNUM (herein lies the proof) NORTH BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL 1948 THE HISTORY OF NORTH BRANCH At a Signum staff meeting some time ago it was decided that inasmuch as our school reflects the community in which we live, it might be fitting and proper to include a story of the development of the village of North Branch. As my father is an ardent student of local history, I was elected for the story. Facts were verified by considerable research which occasionally became discouraging, but below is the history as it was presented to me: It is the common belief that a man by the name of Beecher first settled here in what is now North Branch. He cleared the land, and therefore the area was named Beecherville in his honor. This was probably between I860 and 1865. In later years it was renamed North Branch, in confirmation of the location of the north branch of the Flint River. In the year of I 881, it was officially incorporated as a village. The official and still unchanged ordi- nances were adopted May 13th, 1891, and enforced March 1st, 1895. In 1879, V. S. Miller sold the Gazette office, then the Weekly Observer, to the Reverend F. J. Galbraith. The first railroad was constructed through the village in 1881. Up to this time the only other available transportation was the stagecoach. In looking through the Classified Directory, for the year 1879 the following stores and business offices were listed: V. S. Miller, notary public; Geo. Mott, attorney-at-law; Pioneer Bank; F. B. Howard Co.; J. H. Vandecar, druggist; Welstand Murch, druggist; C. E. Root, dentist; S. A. Snow. M.D.; G. W. Campbell, M. D. Those not listed were: North Branch Stage Line, Harness shop, Daniel Hollinger, G. W. Cobb, millinery; Marsh and Basna, clothing; Daniel Orr, Lumber yard. These stores were owned and operated by our great grandparents. This little village has prospered slowly but surely until at the present date the population is about eight hundred. North Branch High School North Branch, Michigan May 14, 1948 Students of North Branch High School North Branch, Michigan Dear Students: In the fall of 1937 when I was beginning to work in North Branch, Dr. Kenneth Bordine, now of Central Michigan College of Education, was: Superintendent of Schools in Marlette. On one of my first visits with him he made this remark: “One of the most interesting things about the North Branch school is that there are so many things to be done. Eleven years have passed. Many things have been done. Our enrollment has doubled, the school employs twice as many teachers, many new courses have been added, a transportation system has been established, a new type district has been organized, broader music and atheletic programs are in effect, etc. Looking back over the period of my stay with you, I recollect many pleasant and interesting exper- iences. I have worked with, and come to know many fine people, both young and old. 1 have established some lifetime friendships. I feel a sense of deep satisfaction in having had a hand in some of the school’s accomplishments. And yet, looking ahead with you into the future of your school and community, I am constantly reminded of Dr. Bordine’s statement. There are still so many things to be done.” Life is like that. We dare not use much time looking back at what has taken place in the past because glancing ahead, we see so many greater possibilities and responsibilities in the future. Let us be about our tasks. As there are, always will be, So Many Things to be Done.” Very sincerely yours D. Reed McGee Superintendent of Schools North Branch, Michigan Mr. D. Reed McGee, Superintendent North Branch Public Schools North Branch, Michigan Dear Mr. McGee: 1 am writing this letter in behalf of the entire 1 should like to try to express, in my humble grams and suggestions for improving the students possibly mention all the memorable gifts you have for which we are especially grateful. You have made that we may all possess the same opportunities. You making department, and cafeteria: you have supplied grams, and we are also grateful for the noon-hour accomplishments, and many more, we thank you. person has done for us until he leaves us; then is the lost. North Branch High School North Branch, Michigan May 10. 1948 student body of North Branch High School. way, our appreciation for all your wonderful pro- themselves and also the school as a whole. I can't bestowed upon us, but 1 do want to review a few it possible for us all to attend the same school so have provided us with a modern shop, home- us with interesting and educational assembly pro- recreation programs you have encouraged. For these We never are consciously aware of the good a time we stop to realize what a good friend we have As you leave North Branch, we hope you will feel like coming back to visit all your many friends here. 1 hope we will live in your memory for you, as you will always live in ours. Through all the many years you have served our community you have found a memorable place in our hearts, and we wish to you and your family the very best of luck. Sincerely yours, Theresa Schlaud Representative of the students of North Branch FACULTY OF NORTH BRANCH SCHOOL 1947 -1948 Back row, left to right: Mrs Ruth Fox, 3rd grade; Miss Gertrude Hocking. 7th Grade; Mrs Mable But- terfield, 6th grade; Miss Hazel Pendleton, 2nd grade; Mrs Hazel Moore. 1st grade; Mrs Nezzie Cline, homemakin : Mrs Bertha Hocking, commercial. Second row, Mrs Agnes Hamlin, 4th grade; Mr3 Geraldine Clothier, 5th grade; Mrs Virginia Murray 2nd grade; Mrs Lucille Mitchell, 4th grade; Mrs. D. Reed McGee, secretary; Miss Margaret Warren, kindergarten; Mrs Kenneth Burger, 8th grade; Mrs Martin Atkins, English. Third row: John Church, music department; Mr Martin Atkins, social studies Mr Clarence Fleury, Latin and English; Mr D. Reed McGee, superintendent; Mr Kenneth Burger, science and geometry; Coach John C. Thomas; Mr Albert Stickle principal; Mr Edward Krepps, shop. THOSE WHO PREPARE OUR LUNCHES Mrs Mary Repic, Mrs C. Baker, Poppie Naracon and Virginia Klauka, student. VIVIAN ANDERSON She looks quiet, but ???????” Gym 2 Chorus 4 IAMES PATTERSON His thoughts are long thoughts ootball 2 ’•asketball I Chorus 4 Gym 3 GWENDOLYN SCHANK I don’t despair even if diffi- culties are many. Band 4 Chorus 4 CARL BARRETT To us your name will ere re- main as one of highest thought.” Gym 4 Chorus 1 JACKIE AUDET Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these — she’s taken men. Gym i Band 2 Chorus 4 CATHERINE RUHLMAN A heart big enough to receive the world.” Band 4 Chorus 4 Gym 3 RICHARD NEWMAN If school is liberty, death. tSaseballBaseball 4 Football 4 t-ootball 4 Gym 2 give me GEORGE SCR1MGER He is no speaker, yet he can talk. Gym 4 Football 3 Basketball 2 Baseball 4 MARJORIE NELLENBACH A happy heart makes a happy face. Band 4 Chorus 4 Gym 4 t .tt LEON TROJANO WSK.I “He can talk his way through sheet iron.” Gym H Football 3 Basketball 3 BLANCHE REYNOLDS 1 see the world with my heart, but mv eyes help. Gym 2 william McLaughlin A man of few words.” Gym 4 ANTOINETTE MIKULSKI She who does things quietly always does them well.” Band 4 Gym 2 Chorus 4 LEONARD MIK.LOV1CH “What will be, will be — why worry?” Gym 4 Football 2 HOWARD OSBORN He who does not think highly of himself is more le thinks.” Baseball I Football 1 Gym I B ce-ball 2 MARGARET WESTEN “A men for her and she'll gay. At least one new one en it cay. ' Gy m 2 Band 4 C’.c.us 4 SHARON MATTHEWS She may be small . . but she likes ’em tall.” Gym I Band 4 Chorus 4 EMIL MIKLOVICH “The Strand now is his great joy — for the movies or some cute girl? Gym 3 Band 4 • AWRENCE CURELL “A m n is not measured inches.” Gym 4 Football 3 DALE SUMMERSETT “Football is this man's meat. Watching him play m really a treat.” Gym 4 Football 2 Basketball 1 DOROTHY PEET Smiles like hers bring smiles to all.” Bend 4 Chorus 4 TCB7RT GRINNELL A truer gentleman one seldorr ees. Gym 4 Band 3 Chorus 2 EVELYN JANK.OWSKE Here is a girl who's short and weet. and one of the nicest you -ould meet.” Gym I JOSEPH WEINGARTZ Give him some wire and a piece of board. He s all wrapped up in that old Ford.” Gym 4 Baseball I THERESA SCHLAUD Theresa has a smile that wins. That accounts for her many friends.” Gym 3 Band 4 Chorus 4 JAMES D1EGEL If you haven't anything say, say it anyway. Gym 4 Baseball 4 t o BERNARD SCHLAUD “Bernard for blondes has 'assion When he parks wishe« gas were rationed! Gym 4 ROBERT SUTTER Now here's a ladies’ man, no doubt. He really knows his way about. Band 4 AUDREY BYERS MITCHELL “She nrefers marriage to school' Gym 2 Band 4 Chorus 4 ROSEMARY KREINER Always seeking happiness.” Gym 1 Band 4 Chorus 4 DOUGLAS BLONDE “It i«n’t work that worries him — it's women.” Gvm 4 Band 3 Football 1 Basketball 3 Baseball 3 JOSEPH LINCK “Give thy thoughs no words. Gym 4 Football 2 Baseball 1 EARL BRUSKE “Earl is really on the beam when he plays on our basketball team Gym 3 Basketball 3 Baseball 1' SHIRLEY BEADLE She smiles and the world smiles with her. Gym 1 Band 4 Chorus 4 SENIOR CLASS We shall relate to you the story of the class of 1948. Its life continued but four short years, yet every day of those four years was crowded with events. When the members of this class have all achieved the fame that is certain to come to them, the memories of these four years will linger in the hearts of each and every one. It was September. 1944, that this enthusiastic group of boys and girls first made their appearance in the halls and on the campus of North Branch High School. In our Freshman year we had 43 members. Our sponsor for our first yiear jin high school was Miss Margaret Schrot. The officers of the class were as follows: President Jim Diegel Secretary Antoinette Mikulski Vice-president Audrey Byers Treasurer Dorothy Peet The class did a successful job of sponsoring a Freshman Hop. Of course, as Freshmen we suffered many indignities, but as Sophomores we passed them on to the class beneath us. By the end of the first year the freshness had disappeared. We had become quite familiar with the school customs and curriculum, so that during our second year we were able to en- joy more of the social functions and festivities of school life. As Sophomores we had the enjoyment of initiating the Freshman class. This year our class contained forty-three members. The officers dur- ing our second year were as follows: President Carl Barrett Secretary , Theresa Schlaud Vice president Audrey Byers Treasurer Evelyn Jankowske Our sponsor was Mr Henry Burgess. Next came the Jun'or year. The play, Leave t To Us, was rucressfully dramatized by a cast of enthusiastic students. The Junior Prom was held in lay of that year which was well attended. Our class had rorty-five members witn IVir Charles Hundley as sponsor. Class officers during our Junior year were as follows: President Jackie Audet Secretary Fvelyn Jankoweke Vice president Carl Barrett Treasurer Theresa Schlaud At last came the Senior year with all of its importance and its great feeling of superiority over all the other classes. And with it came the thoughts and preparations for graduation, the selection of a class motto, the class flower, the class colors, the caps and gowns, and all else that enters into Commencement. The class sponsored noon-hour activities during the Senior year. A Senior Operatta was written and sponsored by our Music Director, Mr John Church. There were forty-two members in our class this year, and our sponsor was Mr Kenneth Burger. The class officers were as follows: President Carl Barrett Secretary Jackie Audet Vice president Tony Gural Treasurer George Scrimger SENIOR CLASS WILL Died on June 1, 1948, in the fourth year of its life, the Senior class of ‘48 of North Branch High School from a rush of information to the head. The funeral services will be held in the auditorium on June 3rd. It is my solemn duty now to call you here, my respected clients, to hear the last will and testa- ment of the class of '48, which as her legal advisor, 1 drew up as directed by her immediately prior to her passing from our presence. Audrey Mitchell wills her ability to get a husband to Shirley Chapman. Vivian Anderson wills her singing voice to Walter Kelly. Leon Trojanowski wills his well-known ability to talk back in self-defense and to make any action he may see fit to commit, seem perfectly justifiable and proper, to Marian Lange. Jim Patterson wills his limousine to Joan Minkstin and Fred Crawford for a sure way to get where they are going. Evelyn Jankowske wills her ability to keep thin to Dick Pratt. Carl Barrett wills his forbearance, long-suffering and self-sacrifice he had to possess as class president to Ted Musiel. Howard Osborn wills his love for athletics to Roy George and George Harris. Dick Newman wills his ability to sleep in class to Marilyn Gossman. Jackie Audet wills her ability to hook a man to Pearl Patrick. Emil Miklovich wills his misfortune as a rattlebrain to Lodema Simmons and Marie Houck. Dorothy Peet wills her evenings to Alton Barrett Mrrgie Nellenbach wills her Monday washdays o Noel Conger. Douglas Blonde wills his 28 Chevy to Bob Rutledge for transportation back and forth to school. Maybe he will be here more often. Nadene Conger wills her power in sports to Marce Pcdvin. Bob Sutte' leaves his ambition to George Weingartz. Mary Leu Slice wills her experience as a che r'eader to Peggy Heath and Irene LaValley. Blanche Revnolds wills her bashfulness to Omah Swain. Catherine Ruhlman wills her beauty to Rose Ann Hudson. Leonard Miklovich wills hi3 ability to sing to Janis Almas and Shirley Root. Rosemary Kreiner wills her ambition to be a farmer's wife to Marilyn O'Neil and Gladys Stanley. Glenn Bader wills his quietness to Louise Sc'-.la d Shir'ey Beadle wills her life to Keith Byers for the coming years. Pat Foster wills her gift of gab to Virginia Klauka. George Scrimger wills his great desire to be absolutely letter-perfect along with all the worn out typewriters rnd lead pencil erasers with the understanding that thev are to be loaned to whomsoever shall ask for them without regard to race, color, or previous condition of servitude, to Tom Slattery. Sharon Matthews bequeaths with full and unalienable rights forever in recognition of past valuable services rendered, all the beaus she possesses with wishes for her safety and peace, to Vicky Gura. Toni Mikulski wills her entire stock of unflagging industry which enabled her to study from morn 'til dewy eve and by this sign never to fail in making her grades to Ray Swoish, the most efficient pupil in the school. Bob Grinnell wills his fondness for avia’icn to to Ila Dean Geiger. Hedwig Karpinski wills her ability to use common sense at all times in application of the princides learned in class to Wayne Allen. Marge Westen wills his ability to get along with Bob to Kate Harris. Rs'e Summersett wills his ability as a genius in physics class to June Baraboll. Delores Pisariuk wills her height to Ruth Armstrong. Lawrence Curell wills his ability to do math to Tilly Forys. Joe Linck wills his ability to be a factory worker to Genevieve Dennis. Jim Piegel wills his ability to pitch baseball to Jay Baker. Earl Bruske wills his height to Norman Schlaud. Tony Gural wills his curly hair to Harold Miller. Gwendolyn Schank wills all her A s to Pete Stacey. Bernard Schlaud wills to his friend, Duane Laur his ability to court girls. Joe Weinvartz wills his ability to play football to Bob McCormick. Theresa Schlaud wills her experience as a trombone player to Joe Krawczyk. Betty Swoish wills her ability as an A student to her sister Shirley. Any beneficiary attempting to subvert, overturn, nullify, or in anyway interfere with the provisions of this document, shall not onlv be deprived of all rights and privileges there in granted to him or her, but shall be sentenced to hard labor, for one to five years, according to the discretion of the court at the nearest soda fountain. row, left to right: R. Bartkowiak, W. Kelly� G. Harris, R. Rutledge, J. Baker, D. Laur, N. Conger, K. Byers, R. Pratt, F. Crawford, R. McCormick, N. Schlaud, R. Swoish. Center row: Mrs. B. Hocking, Mr. C. Fleury, T. Musiel, L. Schlaud, S. Swoish, S. Chapman, M. Lange, L. Simmons, M. P'Neil, K. Harris, M. Podvin, J. Minkstin, M. Houck, R. George Seated: V. Klauka, G. Dennis, R. ArmstSftng, M. Heath, G. Stanley, P. Patrick, V. Gura. S. Root, J. Baraboll, J. Almas, I. LaValley, T. ForyS.'lR. A. Hudson, I. D. Geiger. Not pictured: M. Gossman, G. Stacey, W. Allen, J. Krawczyk, H. MiJfe� , G. Pisariuk, G. Weingartz, A. Barrett, O. Swain, T. Slattery. JUNIOR CLASS The Junior class started out their school year with Mr Clarence Fleury as their class ponsor. The following officers were elected: Ted Musiel, president; Robert McCormick, vice-president; Marilyn Goss- man, secretary; Gerald Stacey, treasurer. The rose was chosen as our class flower, and blue and silver are our class colors. No motto was decided upon. As our first important business undertaking, we decided to operate a newspaper and enlarge the class treasury with the funds secured. Janis Almas was chosen editor-in-chief; other positions were fill- ed to form a complete staff. Mrs. Martin Atkins was chosen as our sponsor. The Junior class participated in several activities. We presented the annual Junior play Moon Shy,” December 3rd and 4th, with a large audience attending both performances. Instead of holding a regular class party, we elected to join forces with the three classes to hold a roller-skating party at Imlay City. On May 14th the Junior Prom was held in the gymnasium. The gym was beautifully decorated as a jungle with potted palms. Ward Lindsey’s Star Dusters furnished the music. Some Junior students participated in the Senior Operetta, the Minstrel Show, and the Bacculureate Services. Standing, left to right: W. Hughes, P. Fike, W. McLaughlin, M. Hobson, J. McTaggart, J. Rose, E. Stevens. Second row: E.--Buckner, D. Knox, L. McDowell, S. Miller, T. Ruhlman, T. Diegel, J. Frrrier, C. Safford, D. Bruise, E. Senko, M. Pasternak, G. Ankley. Third row; C. Schank, S. Hohman, N. Si mmersett, M. Curell, M. Beadle, R. Naracon, M. McDowell, J. Laur, R. Houck, B. Kreiner, J. Westen, Mr. M. Atkins, sponsor. Seated: D. Klauka, J. Audet, R. Nellenbach, L. Lange, R. Linck, C. ScSlcud, W. Bruske, E. Laur, E. Lipka, D. Moorfe, P. McGuire, M. Harris. Not pictured:: K. Bowman, N. Black- en r, B. Cooper, R. Grinnell, A. Hallock, C. Nellenbach, J. Pratt, B. Render, C. Skwirsk, J. Thompson. R. Deo. SOPHOMORE CLASS At the first meeting of the Sophomore class the following officers were elected. Joan Laur, pres- ident; Tom Ruhlman, vice-pre ident; Darla Moore, treasurer; Eleanor Lipka, secretary. Mr Martin G. Atkins was class sponsor. The class flower is the red rose and class colors are blue and white. The first event of the year was the Freshman initiation which centered around a huge bonfire in Lack of the school. In November, the class party was given The theme was a night club with elaborate decorations throughout. Guests danced to the music of Merton's Melonaires and everybody was satisfied with the entertainment and seemed to enjoy themselves. The Sophomore class came in first in the March of Dimes, and had an undisputed first place in the Red Cross Drive. Class members on the Signum staff are: Joan Laur, Elaine Laur, Kathleen Bowman, and Mary Harris. Elaine Laur was also active on the Bronce News staff. FRESHMAN CLASS The freshman class of 1947-48 from which officers were chosen was seventy-one strong. President Bill Heath Secretary Ann Gural Vice-president Walter Baraboll Treasurer Carl Lindsay Mr. Edward Krepps served as class sponsor. The representatives for the school calendar from the Freshman class were Sandra Matthews and John Gossman. Donna Jean Clendenan acted as class reporter for the Bronco News. The class chose for their flower the red rose; their colors were green and white. Back row, left to right; T. Burns, T. Mikulski N. Byers, D. Albrecht, D. Heatley, N. Martin, B. M. Castle, B. Chambers. S. Skalecki, S. Raymond, S. Hallead, C. Skwirsk, F. Klauka, H. Vielhaber. Second row: J. June, J. June, M. Snay, P. Myers, S. Cyacykowski, T. Almas, D. Cichoracki, C. Stortz, I. Anderson, E. Colburn, K. Dhooghe, R. Robinson. Third row: Mr E. Krepps, sponsor, R. Chapin, C. Lindsay, W. Laur, M. Inman, H. McLeod. J. Bean, C. Chapman, P. Taylor, B. Kennedy, M. Martin, L. Griffin, R. M. Repic, D. McDowell, E. Patrick, M. Vielhaber, M. Thompson. Fourth row: D. Jasper, M. Ruhlman, S. Matthews, A. Gural, R O’Rourke V. Horton, D. J. Clendenan, J. Westen, M. Moore, J. Predmore, M. Bader, M. Clark, M.L. LaFortune, G. Burt. Front row: O. Schierlinger, T. Predmore, G. Sohn, W. Baraboll, P. O’Rourke, L. Horton, J. Gossman, B. Heath, H. Grinnell, C. Russell, R. McMullen. Standing, left to right: M. Coe, L. Patrick, I. Osborn, A. Swoish, E. Chapman. Second row: A. Repic, E. Jamison, D. Ankley, D. Pratt, R. Coates D, Rose, E. Peters, M. Audet, D. Stoneburgh, A. La’:e, V. Krawczyk, L. Cloutier, M. Westen. Third rew: Mrs K. J3urger, M. J. Brusie, O. J. Moore, E. N'o’f n, D Bader, B. Schlaud. L. S: hlaud, E. Chase R. Scherlinger, M. Laur, J. Sherman, N. J. Kreiner, B. Matthews, L. Morse, C. Coe Front row: W. Neitzke, R. Taylor, L. Schlaud, W. Miller, L. Solon, D. Travis, R. Hunt, F. Schlaud, W. Armstrong, E. Ferkowicz. Not pictured: D. Mclnahy, B. Blackmer, L. Link. '• - ' EIGHTH GRADE A few members of the 8th grade class played the parts in the English scene of the Christmas pro- bram; they also took a few parts in the stable scene. Some of the 8th grade boys played on the Jr. high basketball team. Ellen Nolan placed first in the spelling contest for her class; Alice Lake placed second. Ellen Nolan T laced second in the finals between the 7th and 8th grades and went on to Lapeer for the final spell- clown. Standing, left to right: R. Chambers, D. Evans, G. Swirsk, E. Moore, H. McConnell, Miss G. Hartley, E. Evans, O. Cheney, W. Stiglich, F. Raymond, V. Almas, J. Castle, F. Vollweiler. Second row: M. McConnell, L. Miller, L. Stine, J. Richards, B. Almas K. McGee, B. Patrick, V. Scharf, A. Linck, N. Goss- man, B. Render, M. A. Brusie, P. Horton, L. Patrick. Front row: F. Skalecki, L. Kreiner, J. Nelienbach, F. Naracon, J. Boyle, D. Grinnell, D. Swoish. Not pictured: C. Lindquist, R. Schank, S. Gura, D. Blackmer. SEVENTH GRADE The seventh grade is particularly proud this year of their standing in the County spelling contest as dargaret Ann Brusie placed second. There are twenty boys and girls in the Junior Chorus from the seventh grade, and fifteen are in ’ie Junior Band. Janet Richards and Katherine McGee were presented with a certificate from the County Librar- ian for outstanding reading ability for their age and group. Many others have shown great progress in eir leisure readings. SIXTH GRADE The sixth grade started school in September with twenty eight boys and seventeen girls, and al- t ough we are finisf ing in June with the same number some of the students have left to be replaced with rev members. Barbara Friday and Joseph Stefanic have left, but Ann Willett and Billy Horton came to take their places. We joined the Hallowe’en pa-ade, took the Polish part in the Christmas in Faraway Lands program, and had a Valentine's Day party. We’ve had a regular gym period this year which was espec- ially enjoyed during baseball season when we played outside. Every two weeks we have visited the public library for books for spare time use. In February our regular teacher, Mrs Mary Listwak, left us and was replaced by Mrs Mable Butterfield. Third row, left to right: M. Payne, J. Skwirsk, W. Ragatz, J. Scharf, C. Braidwood, S. Moore, M. Cham, bers, E. Law, J. Repic, C. LaFortune, G. Bush, D. Stevens, E. Seelye, G. Hoffman, K. Bruske. Second r.'w: R. Lockwocd, E. Richard, M. Skwirsk, E. Smith, N. Robinson, A. Willett, J. Krake, F. Fricke, B. Dcmbrosky, J. A. Hallock, L. Weingartz, G. Nellenbach, B. Horton, R. Cichoracki, H. McConnell Front rew: Mrs M. Butterfield. E. Weigle, R. Smith, J. Kruschinski, R. Kriner, C. Papke, D. Adamic, M. Cureil, E. Miller, D. Schank R. Stiglich, S. Schank, R. Stig.ich, S. Schank, J. Linck, G. Grinnell, E. Skalecki. Not pictured: Billy Westen. Standing, left to right: R. Schank. K. Fike, V. Horton, G. Schutz, G. Cumper, E. Howard, T Jones, T. Dombrosky, F. Scharf, Mrs. G. Clothier, Second row: M. J. Naracon, E. Blackmer, H. Boyle, M. E. Kennedy, B. Tater, R. Cloutier, W. Bean, B. Matthews, J. Rose, K. Chambers, J. Jamison, D. Weigel. Front row: V. Evans, B. Dearing, R. Griffin, J. Adams, W. Thompson, L. Murray, V. Patrick, G. Kreiner, R. Nolan, L. Schank, D. A. Hoffman, R. A. O’Neil, S. Papke. Not pictured: S. McFarlen and G. Schlaud. FIFTH GRADE The fifth grade has had from 36 to 40 pupils throughout the past year. We have had fun working out map and notebook projects for geography. In the Christmas programs we portrayed the Mexican Christmas. Our main parties were ou| C hristma: and Va entine parties. We ve enjoyed studying plants and birds which come with spring. Cur main sports are baseball and cheerleading. FOURTH GRADE W hen school opened on September 4th, our studenti for one teacher, so we were divided into cur teachers During the year several new members Sairpritt, Michael Clark.The only ones who left were roilment is fifty-seven. Tho-e pupils neither absent nor tardy during Ronald Seelye, and Stanley Chase. We are looking forward to a trip to Flint Park grade had fifty-five enrolled. That was too many two groups with Mrs Mitchell and Mrs Hamlin as joined our group: Joe Parr, Jack Sullivan, Gladys Michael Clark and Gladys Shippritt. Our present en- tire year are: Jimmie Chambers, Edward Vollweiler, which will bring our year to a close. Standing, left to right: J. Fricke, D. Smith, D. Gillis, E. Vollweiler, R. Murray, E. Turner, A. Stelmak, J. Craw.ord, G. Evans, S. Fricke, D. Braidwood, G. Ankley. Second row; Mrs L. Mitchell, M. Smith, P. Stacey, N. Burt, P. Tanguay, Y. Schank. D. Locklin, D. Gould, J. Parr, F. Margrif, C. Skalecki, G. Barck, T. Gates, R. Seelye, N. Ritter, Mrs. A. Hamlin. Third Row: M. Podvin, R. Adams, C. Bauman. J. Castle, B. O Neil, S. Chase, J. Gowing, B. Westen, G. Stoneburg, R. Harley, C. Watson, J. Castle, C. Linck, J. Nellenbach, D. Stoneburg. Front row: J. Skwirsk, J. Griffin, J. Sullivan, E. Bauman, B. Sterling, P. Schlaud, M. Taylor, J. Rutledge, J. Chambers, B. Bader, B. Harris, N. Stine. Not pictured: Ellen Ann Boyle, Keith Harley, James Ferrier, Marvin Smith. Standing, left to nght: B. Skwirsk. N. Cloutier. K. Fisher. T. Roth. J. O'Neill. D. McGee. M. Murray. R. Schank. D Vollweiler. J. Westfall. A. Stevens. S. Miller. F. Richard. Second row: Mrs Ruth Fox. C. DeGrovr, J. McTaggart. L. Carpenter. R. Wynn J. Render. G. Wilhelm. W. Houck. J. O'Neill M Boyle. K. Nolan, M. Jones. B. Reynolds. E. Paoke, Mrs. Agnes Hamlin. Front row: j. Sharrard. B Naracon F. Cumper. P. McConnell. L. Coates. B. Stine. P. Bean. j. Gardner. G. McConnell. D. Brim D. Lockhn. T. Kreiner, B. Seelye. j. Wilson. Not pictured: Robert Carpenter. Arthur Schank. and Jimmy v nase. THIRD GRADE thirdSfi’radl °nn d W'!l a enrollment of forty-one students; twenty-six boys and fifteen girls in the Patrick Bean DI ?8 «“u new„ entries were: Michael Borha. Joyce Ann Sharrard. George Wilhelm, the vear sn we I Carpenter, and Annabell Caeca. We lost five from our class during the year, so we are closing school with a membership of forty-three. Those neither absent nor tardy during the year are: Barbara Seelye. Frank Cumper. Joyce Sharrard. the fourthRgradeFCX gfade te3cher' a d MrS' Agnes Hamli has a her room with Standing, left to right: Mrs V. Murray. P. Ankley. D. Sullivan, M. Cobb, J. McKillen. B. Tater O. McConnell, H. Foster, L. Butterfield, D. Neaves, J. Sh:rf, B. Kennedy, S. Cowing, C. Rhode, F. Mor- stein, M. McClellan, Wm. McKellar. Second row: Miss H. Pendleton, C. Trato, J. Rossman, A. Gasca, L. Chase, A. Bowman, T. Upleger, J. Snay, H. Boyle, J. Ward, J. Thompson, R. Scheuneman, H. Klauka, B. Houck, Y. Fuller, R. Weingartz, S. Me Intosh, J. Dearing, Front row: J. Gasca, M. LeValley R Gould, A. Castle, C. Horton, R. Rhode, J. B ruman, C. Turner, P. Bruman, D. Brace, F. Fricke, L. Thompson, G. Grinnell, F Linck, J. Lackner, B. Ruhlman. Not pictured: J. Andrews, R. Porritt, P. Schank. SECOND GRADE We are the class of ‘58. We began the year with fifty-one students enrolled. Miss Hazel Pendleton was our teacher. However, at the end of two weeks, an extra teacher, Mrs Virginia Murray, was added to lighten the load in the first and second grades. We have especially enjoyed our art and science courses, and our little excursions. ca f' R R T T o Murray' Mn’ H- Mo°re- L- Neaves- F. Skwirsk, A. McConnell. D c P. Cr' R RBUChfan,!,n’TJ0 B,UrUCk’ R' BrUCC’ L' Benne,t- S- Smoke- K. Skalecki, j. Willett C. Stoneburg. R. Butterfield. T. Stelmak. J Nietzske, j. Hunt. C. Criffin. Second row: J. Crawford, C. Cum- n AJ' c' a' Cn rWe ' I’ ceoC’ 1 BrUma j' K!auka' C Horecki- M. Richard, M. McClellan S P MT . R u To! ' L' M°nette J- ThomPSOn- L- Goodrich. Front row: R. Rankin McVean'T)' M V R T RH°de’. W Q Fe,rry- B' Houck- R' S d. M. Bruman. D. Carpenter, C. D Jones, F. Co� ::: M. Pa3ayC Lpor°Rle’ D‘ N°‘ � «■ FIRST GRADE The first grade enrolment in September was fifty-two students with Hazel L. Moore as teacher her two weeks the grade was divided, and another teacher, Mrs Virginia Murray, was added The chil- dren enjoyed learning to read and to write. aaaea. t ne cnil- Our Christmas program was entered into with year was cur picnic on the last day of school. a great deal of enthusiasm. Another high-light of the Standing, left to right: G. Sterling, R. Kraue, L. Houck, F. Margrif, R. Scharf, L. Zeeman. B. IVlatnews D. Goss, B. Chase. Center row: Miss M. Warren. C. McFarland, L. McConnell, A. Porritt, R. Harley, U Bruman M. Linck, B. Parker, M. Murray, M. Robinet L. LaValley. J. Rhode. C. Lackner, D. Parker, B. Fricke, H. Burack, J. Castle. Front row: J. Rhode. D. Nellenbach. J. Grinnell, R. McClements. J. Gould. C. Richards. J. Brace. P. Burger. D. Caldwell. R. Rachow, P. Skalecki. D. Bean. M. Bauman. R. Young, T. Cloulier. R. Deshetski. Not pictured: T. Butterfield. R. Wilhelm, N. Dennis, C. Boyle, R. Brace. R. Dean, J. Morstein. G. Rossman, J. Scrim ger. S. Robinet, J. Rankine. KINDERGARTEN The enrollment of the Kindergarten class at the ing the year six pupils entered and one moved away, ski, Richard McClements, Nancy Dennis, Janice moved to Detroit. School ended with an enrollment During the year we did many different things flowers from corn cobs. W e made snowflakes, pin finger painting, etc. f We completed our “Before We Read' work types of weather, 2. Machines we use in everyday The outstanding social days of the year were of school picnic at Imlay City Park. beginning of the school year was forty-severe Dur- Those entering were Richard Wilhelm. Ralph Deshet- Rankine and Cynthia McFarland. Budd Goodrich of fifty-two. in art class. We made a multicolored bouquet ot scratched pictures, silhouette pictures of ourselves, book. We enjoyed the following units: 1. Different life, 3. Animals on the farm and animals in the zoo. the Christmas Program and party, and our last day B;ck row. left to right: T. Musiel, L. Laur, J. Audet. W. Heath, A. Gural. D. Moore, M. Gossman, C. Barrett. Front row: Mr. M. Atkins, Mr K. Burger, Mr. D. Reed McGee, Mr. C. Fleury, Mr. A. Stickle, and Mr. E. Krepps. STUDENT COUNCIL The Student Council of North Branch High School is composed of the superintendent, principal, class sponsors, and the president and secretary of the various classes. The organization was none too active this year, but did participate in several meetings in which class activities was the principle topic of discuision. Back row, left to right: K. Byers, T. Mikulski R. Grinnell, J. Rose, H. McLeod, H. Grinnell. Second row: D. J. Clendenan, J. Westen, D. Laur, Mr. K. Burger, Mrs B. Hocking, Mr A. Stickle, G. Harris, T. Musiel, H. Osborn, R. Pratt. Front row: S. Root. A. Mikulski, P. McGuire, R. Grinnell, M. Harris, E. Laur, J. Laur, R. Repic, M. L. LaFortune, S. Matthews, V. Horton, B. Cooper, E. Lipka. MATH CLUB The Math Club was organized by some of the advanced Math students with the cooperation of our one and only Mr Albert Sickle. The meetings are held the first Wednesday of every month in the commercial room of North Branch High School. There were eighteen original members, but now the membership has increased to 28. The new mem- bers were initiated into our club by the original members. The evenings are sr ent doing pr b'ems and Mr Stickle gives a short lesson on some phase of Math. After working on problems, we end the evenirg with pot-1 ck lunches. TEEN-AGE BOOK CLUB The Teen-Age Book Club was organized by Mrs Martin Atkins in her I Oth and 1 I th grade English classes. The purpose of the club is to encourage reading among the members. A choice of five popu- lar books is given each month and a student may purchase any of the books from previous months. After purchasing four books, a member is entitled to any pocket book selection entirely free of cost. Classic and modern novels, mystery stories, sports stories, and poetry anthologies are among the selec- tions available. Students borrow and exchange pocket books, therefore giving everyone an equal opportunity to enjoy the writings of famous authc's. rong, r. I aylor. IN. Summersett, IV1. Curell, M. Beadle, R. Naracon, D. Clendenan, J. Westen, P. Patrick, C. Chapman, S. Chapman, M. Podvin. K. Hards, P. Heath, G. Stanley. Second row: Mrs N. Cline. M. Ruhlman R. M. Repic, R. M. Linck, L. Lange, C. Schlaud, P. Meyers. M. Snay. M. Clark, M. Bader, A. Mitchell. D. Pisariuk, M. Houck, R. A. Hudson, J. Bean, M. L. Stine. Front row: K. Bowman, M L. LaFortune, C. Nellenbach, L. Schlaud, C. Schank, T. Schlaud, L. Simmons, G. Dennis, D. Jasper, S. Matthews, R. Houck. B. Kreiner, J. Westen. HOME ECONOMICS CLUB The Future Homemakers of America Club was started in September, 1947. Our officers are as fol- lows: Lodema Simmons president; Theresa Schlaud. vice-president; Catherine Schank. secretary; Louise Schlaud, treasurer; Evelyn Hurd. historian; Genevieve Dennis, reporter; Cecilia Nellenbach. parliamentarian; Kathleen Bowman, song leader. Our club meets once a month to participate in a business meeting, singing, games, and refreshments. To earn money, we have been making cup cakes to be sold to the school children. We are now th ;.pr°ce!3 ot. mjKln8 an afghan to sell. Each girl is crocheting several multi-colored blocks about 3 x) . A committee of three was chosen to set the afghan together. Toward the close of the year, we held a bake donated home-made pastry toward the benefit of sale to help raise money for our club. Each memb the sale. er Back row, left to right: Jim Patterson, Tom Diegel, Neil Blackmer, Junior Safford, Howard Osborn, Leon Trojanowski. Second row: Dale Summersett, Leonard Miklovich, Ted Musiel, Duane Laur, Carl Lindsay, Fred Crawford, Noel ..Conger, Coach John Charles Thomas. Third row, seated: Tony Gural, Dick Newman, Bob McCormick, Ralph Bartkowiak, Jim Diegel, John Ferrier. Front row: Earl Bruske, Tom Ruhlman, George Scrimger. VARSITY CLUB The Varsity Club of North Branch High School has not been active as an organized group this year; but so long as there are letterman in the halls of North Branch, so long will the Varisty Club remain a cherished tradition. s' IT r A”w,0,d JpM;”k in-M G°™ R l A S RotT Blbol,.LaU'' J' Alm“- M' M Alk'“- J- I- C. F—. M. Westen, SIGNUM STAFF The- Signum, the book which you are now holding i« the first vear honk l j i vt 1 Branch High School Without the help of Atkins, our advisor, this edition could never have been publishedI Enclosed within these pages are our efforts, our hopes, and perhaps — our accomplish ments. The judgment of the Signum lies with the students who read it. accomplish Our staff is as follows: lanis Almas ................... Editor-in-Chief Shirley Root ................. Assistant Editor led Musiel • • • • .......... General Manager Richard Pratt Fred Crawford . Business Managers 'n?n t a T......,. Art Advertising Manager Ri' hard Pratt Fred Crawford ... Sports Editors J“ne Baraboll .................... Class Editor Marilyn Gossman and Joan Laur . Cover Committee Joan Minkstin, Ruth Armstrong, Marilyn O Roy George . . Lay-out Committee Shirley Swoish ................ Literary Editor Kath’«rBowmannIUMe: ‘ c ' LaV,aI1fy- obert McCormick. Carl Barrett. William Heath, Nath een Bowman. Mary Harris, Grace Foster, Jackie Audet, Darla Moore, Marge Weslen. Back row. left to right: R. Rutledge, R. George F. Crawford. R. Pratt. J. Baraboll. M. Heath. J Vlink- stin. M. L. LaFortune, S. Matthews, D. J. Clendenan. Front row: S. Root. S. Swoish, E. Laur. J. Almas. Mrs M. Atkins, M. Gossman, M. Westen. BRONCO NEWS STAFF The Junior class has this year published the first newspaper of North Branch High School in many years. It is called the Bronco News, as the Bronco is our school insignia. The paper is published monthly and contains news from the various high school classes and grades, reports of club meetings, assemblies, complete sports' coverage, school gossip and jokes, world news re- views, calenders of future events, and editorials. With what few materials we body, we feel we have accomplished to have still more accomplishments. Janis Almas .................... • Editor-in-Chief Shirley Root .................... Assistant Editor Shirley Swoish ................ General Reporter Marilyn Gossman ............ Art and Production Manager Bob Rutledge .............................. Sales Manager Dick Pratt .............._ . . . . Business Manager Roy George .................. Typist and Lay-out Manager with and with the cooperation of the entire student In the following years we hope Reporters are: June Baraboll . .................... Jf. Class Elaine Laur........................Soph. Class Marge Westen ................... Senior Class Mary L. LaFortune .............. Fresh. C'ass Sandra Matthews ............... Home Ec. Club Gerald Stacey ................ World Reporter Joan Minkstin ..................... Assemblies Dick Pratt and Fred Crawford ......................... Sports Bob Rutledge ........................... Jokes have had to work a great deal in this, our first year. Standing, left to right: J. Almas, K. Harris, J. Baraboll, M. Gossman, S. Root, I. LaValley, M. Podvin, S. Swoish. Seated: M. C. Fleury, sponsor, R. George, D. Laur, R. Rutledge, D. Pratt. JUNIOR PLAY Moon Shy the name of the play picked out by the Junior class this year, was very aptly presented by ten members of the class which is excellently directed by Mr Clarence Fleury, their sponsor. The play took place on December 3rd and 4th, and the scene was a girls’ beach house. The six girls and their maid are obviously without any men whatsoever when three appear almost simultaneously. First, a brother, than a burglar, and last but certainly not least, a very girl-shy bachelor. How the burglar and the bachelor get mistaken for one another and thin get straightened out again is certainly a mixed-up affair. It unravels by having the burglar and the maid sneak off into the night, while the once-girl-shy boy gets himse.f a fair young maiden and the poetess gets the brother. The twins and the two other girls are left behind, entirely disgusted at the opposite sex. T’-e cast included: Janis Almas Marilyn Gossman Katheryn Harris June Baraboll Shirley Swoish Marcedes Podvin Irene LaValley Robert Rutledge Richard Pratt Duane Laur Margaret Lora Lee Nancy Esmerelda Maggie 1st Twin 2nd Twin Mortimer Perkins Duke Paul Prompters included Shirley Root, Roy George, and Mary Heath. JUNIOR-SENIOR PROM • Junior-Senior Prom was held Friday evening May 21st, at the North Branch High School with about I 75 students and guests attending. I he gym was decorated for the occasion like a jungle, with colorful jungle animals and palms on the walls. Real palms, loaned to us by Mr. S. D. Blackburn, were placed in each corner, and color- ed crepe paper and colored lights, to give an authentic jungle appearance. Refreshment stands were located in the bleachers where grape punch and cookies were served. Thir- teen tables were placed around the dance floor. A fine orchestra from Flint furnished good music for dancers. The party was semi-formal, with the men dressed in suits and with their dates in pretty formals of all kinds. The committees that were responsible for the prom were as follows: Decorations: Chairman, Bob Rutledge; Assistant Chairman, Shirley Swoish; Artist Marilyn Gossman, Dick Pratt, Bob McCormick. June Baraboll, Kate Harris, Peggy Heath, and Norman Schlaud. The hat check committee consisted of Walter Kelly, Joe Krawszyk, and Norman Schlaud. Tickets were handled by Shirley Root, Marilyn O'Neill, Ted Musiel, Joan Minkstin. Pete Stacey, Norman Schlaud, Bob McCormick Janis Almac, Irene LaValley, and Marce Podvin had charge of refreshments. Mr Clar- ence Fleury, junior class SDonsor. was responsible for a very succe°sful party. Chaperons included Mr and Mrs Jack Gossman, Mr and Mrs Anthony Mikulski, and Mr and Mrs I H. Woodrow. MASTER OF CEREMONIES MERTON HOBSON SOPHOMORE DANCE On November 21, 1947, the Sophomore class gave a dance in the gymnasium of North Branch High School. The floor-show opened with Merton’s Melonaires playing Mexidale Rose.” Merlton Hobson, who acted as band leader, master of ceremonies, and gag man, displayed a great deal of talent. Merton’s Melonaires” consisted of Joy Westen, Rosemary Nellenbach, Sharon Hohman, Kathleen Bowman, Louise Schlaud, Lorraine Lange, Ross Deo, Charles McLaughlin, Elaine Laur and Janice Pratt. Sharon Hohman was the first performer with a solo entitled “Deep in My Heart.” Kathleen Bow- man then sang Smoke Gets in Your Eyes. Elaine Laur sang If 1 Had My Way,” followed by a duet consisting of Rosemary and Cecejla Nellenbach entitled Winter Wonderland. Janice Pratt played fine piano accompaniment. The Boys' Quintet, consisting of Merton Hobson, Tom Diegel, Junior Safford, Tom Ruhlman, and Paul Fike, sang many unusual and highly entertaining numbers. Darla Moore acted as hostess for the evening. At the close of the show, Joan Laur gave an original poem thanking Mr Martin Atkins, sponsor of the Sophomore class, for his help. Thanks again, Mr. Atkins! The gym was decorated in multi-colored crep“ paper streamers. The baskets were filled with ballons. Tied in two separate bunches from the ceiling, 225 balloons were lowered at the close of the party. Small tables were decorated with bows and crepe paper which were fixed in nite-club style. Refresh- ments served were Spud Flips, Heated Canines, and Cooled Bubble Water. CHEERLEADERS These are the students who encourage our boys To bigger and better victories Back row, left to right: R. Merrill, C. Chapin. T. Mikukki, C. Lindsey, F. Crawford, D. Blonde, L. McDowell, C. Safford, R. Bartkowiak, R. Newman, L. Trojanowski, R. Pratt, H. Osborn, Coach J. C. Thomas. Second row: T. Diegel, C. Skwirsk, J. Linck, D. Summersett, J. Schutz, J. Ferrier, L. Mik- lovich. D. Laur, N. Conger, N. Blackmer. Third row: B. Gostman, G. Scrimger, O. Schierlinger, L. Cur- rell, B. Render, T. Gural, D. Brusie, G. Stacey, W. Baraboil, N. Schlaud, Mgrs. E. Senko, J. Diegel. FOOTBALL TEAM The North Branch Broncos won their first three games of the season by defeating Brown City, Deckerville, and Marlette. The Broncos’ luck then cnanged with five straight defeats from Croswell. Sandusky, Yale, Millington, and Capac. The season ended on a note of triumph, however, when the local team defeated the Lapeer Junior Varsity on Novem ber 14th with a score of 40-0. Howard Osborn, Fred Crawford, G e o r g e Scrimger. Ralph Bartkowiak, and Jim Patterson were especially active this season. Thanks goes to Coach John Charles Thomas for his untiring efforts with our team. Standing, left to right: Carl Lindsay, led Musiel, Howard Osborn, Jim Patterson, Dale Summersett, Coach John C. Thomas. Seated: Bob McCormick, Earl Bruske, Ralph Bartkowiak, Dick Newman, Leon Trojanowski. BASKETBALL Th first three league games of the basketball season were won by the North Branch Broncos from Deckerville, Marlette, and Sandusky. I he fourth game proved a defeat for the local team when they tangled with Yale, but we rallied again by defeating Brown City by a score of 53-16. The fifth game of the season against Croswell also proved a victory for the Broncos. Our luck turned, however, when we iuffered defeats at the hands of Mayville, Deckerville, Marlette, Sandusky and Yale. Columbiaville then proved an easy victory, but Mayville again overpowered our local five; we rallied, however, against Brown Citv and CrosweM to end the league season on a positive note. Ralph Bartkowiak, Howard Os- born and Bob McCormick were all high-point scorers for the local team. We lost our first game of the District Michigan High School Athletic Association to Vassar by a score of 66-45. Blackmer, Coach John Charles Thomas. Seated: Bob McCormick, Junior Safford, Earl Bruske, Tom Die. gel, Tony Gural, George Scrimger, Tom Ruhlman. BASEBALL TEAM The North Branch High School Broncos successfully began the baseball season by defeating Marlette in their tirst game. They were not, however so fortunate in their next three games against Yale, Sandusky, and Croswell. , i_7 e ®roncos a8aln had a winning streak, how ever, which began by defeatingColumbiaville in a double-header immediately followed by a win over Deckerville. The Broncos brought the baseball season to a successful close by defeating Brown City in the final game. Jim and Tom Diegel did most of the pitching for the local team. John Church. Seated left to right: M. Hobson, D. Laur, R. Rutledge, P. Fike, T. Predmore, S, Miller. Those not pictured: Alton BarTett, Edward McConnell. SENIOR BOYS’ GLEE CLUB The Senior Boys' Glee Club was asked to sing at many places this year, Kentucky Babe, 'Float- mg Down to Cotton Town, and Four Leaf Clover were offered at the Father and Son Banquet. For the Rotary Club the boys sang The Battle of Jericho” and Dear Land of Home. On Saturday night April I Oth they presented a brand new song entitled The Winter Song. They also sang “Shortin’ Cead-1 'vh,clJ everyone enjoys especially when the lead is taken by our own Mr. Church. The Boys' L.lee Club will not lose a person from its ranks this year, so next year they will be able to take up right where they leave off and present more songs under the direction of Mr. Church. JUNIOR BOYS’ GLEE CLUB The following boys have not appeared in public this year with the exception of the Christmas Con. cert which was an operetta entitled Christmas In Other Lands. They show great promise however for future programs Robert Chambers. John Castle. Frank Skalecki, Sigmund Gura, Harry McConnell r Ioyd ollweiier Vernon Almas, Don Blackmer, Eddie Evans. Clarence Lindquist. Owen Cheney, Llvyn Moore Jack Nellenbach, Bill Stiglick, Donald Swoish, Donald Grinned, Fred Naracon, Jerome Doyle, and Donald Evans. Ba-'k row, left to right: A. Mikulski, 1. LaValley, M. Podvin, M. Nellenbach, J. Patterson, H. Osborn, D. Bonde, D. Pitariuk, M. L. Stine, J. Audet, S. Beadle. Second row: R. Kreiner, S. Matthews, A. Mitchell, T. Schlaud, C. Ruhlman, H. Karpenski, V. Anderson, G. Foster, M. Westen, D. Peet, G. Schank. Front row: R. Sutter, B. Schlaud, R. Rutledge, D. Laur, R. Pratt, R. Grinnell, E. Miklovich. THE SENIOR OPERETTA The Senior Operetta took place on March 12, 1948, with the main characters, band, and choirs all from the I 2th grade. The story was about a colonel, his wife, their son, and their adopted daughter. The chief characters were: Lee, Jim Patterson; Linda Lou, Vivian Anderson; Colonel, Bernard Schlaud; Wife, Hedy Karpinski; Daisy Mae, Grace Foster; Butler, Douglas Blonde; Dean, Howard Osborn; Maids, Irene LaValley, Marcedes Podvin, Rosemary Kreiner, Sharon Matthews; Mammy, Marge Westen; McKenzie Sisters, Catherine Ruhlman, Audrey B. Mitchell, Theresa Schlaud; Smoky Moun. tain Boys, Dick Pratt, Bob Rutledge, Duane Laur. The Senior class spent many tedious hours working out this operetta. They were well rewarded when (not to their surprise) they had a full house. Each student had something to do. whether a part in the actual operetta, putting up scenery, or in making roses for the trellis, etc. The first scene started out by the four maids dutsing chairs and singing “Whistle While You Work.” The colored Mammy then came in and scolded the maids for loafing on the job. The maids flatter- ed Mammy into singing When Uncle Joe Plays a Rag on his Old Banjo. The maids went off the stage and the colored butler entered to tell Mammy that he loved her. They sang together That’s the Way to Spell Chicken. The Colonel, his wife, his son Lee, and Daisy Mae came home from their drive. Lee received a telegram saying a group of people are coming for the week-end. The Colonel and his wife left the stage to make preparations for their arrival Daisy Mae feels that Lee is too slow and so used this opportunity to tell Lee of her feelings. Lee does not love her and is prompt in telling her so. Daisy Mae left with a broken heart. Lee then told his sister, that although she is his sister, he doesn't feel that way about her. Lee then left the stage and Linda Lou is left alone singing The Tale that the Tear-(Drop told. The second scene found Linda Lou sitting in the garden crying. The Colonel and his wife finally in. form her that she is not really their own daughter. When Lee hears this, he tells Linda of his love for her. The scene draws to a close with the young course singing Near You. The college group arrived scene three. and furnished a great deal of entertainment. The College Band. Freeport Special Washington and Lee Swing; Girls' Choir, Steal Away; The Mc- Kenzie Sisters, Four Leaf Clover, Feudin’, Fussin' and a Fightin'; The Smoky Mountain Boys, Martin and McCovs, Hilly Billy Band. The Dean then conferred two d'cees upon the Colonel and his son Lee. The program closed with the entire group singing Sweetheart of Sigma Chi” and Tuck me to Sleep in my Old 'Tucky Home.” MUSIC DEPARTMENT PRESENTS MINSTREL SHOW On May 21st. the annual Minstrel Show was given under the direction of Mr John Church. The proceeds, instead of going to the seniors as in previous years, went to the Music Department to be used to- ward new band uniforms. The show opened with the usual parade of the Girls' Chorus dressed in beautiful formals that gave the show a little touch of spring. The boys followed in white jackets with black trimmings. They sang Bring Back Those Minstrel Days and many other rousing minstrel songs. These renditions were follow- ed by the colored boys, who this year were Bob Rutledge, Dick Pratt, Duane Laur, and Bob McCor- mink. Mr Interlocter was portrayed by Howard Osborn, who did a fine job. The finale of the first act was the current hit, “Now is the Hour, with the solo taken by Stanley Miller. In the second act, the Girls’ Glee Club and the Girls' Band presented many selections, some of which were April Showers. solo taken by Vivian Anderson, Victor Herbert’s Gypsy Love Song, with Sharon Hohman as solist, and also “Only a Rose, sung by the entire chorus. There were also some acrobatic stunts performed by Mary Jane Kennedy and Barbara Tater. The grand finale was one of the most colorful ever r resented by this school. The curtains opened with the girls singing America, 1 Love You, after which the boys came marching in to Sigmund Rom- berg’s Vagabo.,a bong The boys then dropped to their knees singing “Come, Beautiful Lady,” while fifteen girls waltzed between the kneeling boys. After this the girls sang “My Hero. The boys and girls then combined th-ir talerjt. by singing It’s a Grand Night lcr Singing. When 'he bugle was heard, the girls and boys marched to the platforms and the meican Flag was brought in while the choruses sang Your Lar... and iVly Land. The program was climaxed by the Star Spangled Banner. SENIOR GIRLS’ GLEE CLUB The Senior Girls’ Glee Club consists of fifty talented young ladies from the ninth to the Twelfth grades. The chorus had opportunities to sing many times and places this year. They presented their talents at the Christmas Concerts, for which they sang Only a Rose,” Russian Sleigh Song, and Won. derful One. They also gave another program at the Methodist Church over the loud speaker. In spite of the fact that many were out of town because of the Christmas season, the girls again proved themselves worthy of much credit. Mr Church purchased new robes for the girls this year. The music department put on a midwinter concert to help finance these gowns. The girls also played an imporant part in the Senior Operetta The fifteen senior girls sang only the old Negro spiritual Steal Away to Jesus. The entire Senior Girls’ Glee Club took part in the an- nual Minstrel Show. There will be only fifteen girls to leave the chorus this year. These fifty young ladies are under the direction of Mr. John Church. JUNIOR GIRLS’ GLEE CLUB Another extremely able group of forty-eight girls is being trained by Mr. John Church for a future Senior Girls' Glee Club. Those participating are as follows. Marilyn Westen, Sandra Matthews, Marv Bader, Geraldine Burt, Helen Veilhaber, Ann Gural, Rita O'Rourke, Evelyn Hurd, Marilyn Sney, Marion Clarke, Mary LaFortune, Charlotte Skwirsk, Flossie Klauka, Lorane Morse, Marjory Laur, Ruth Schiej.' linger, Donna Stoneburg, Mary Jane Brusie, Orva Moore, Ellen Nolan, Darlene Bader, Barbara Schlaud Lucille Cloutier, Virginia Krawszyk, Jean Sherman, Alice Lake, Peggy Audet, Lucille Patrick, Mable McConnell, Margaret Brusie, Beverly Patrick, Beverly R'-’der, Janet Richards, Leaor Miller, Louise Stine, ' ;vian Scharf, Barbara Almas, Pauline Myers, Ellen Griffin, Elizabeth Patrick, Mildred Martin, Nancy Martin, Kathryn McGee, Margaret Veilhaber, Lucille Schlaud, Joan June, Joyce June, and Evelyn Chap- man. SENIOR GIRLS’ GLEE CLUB Standing left to right, top row: Marion Lange, thews, Rosemary Kreiner, Antoinette Mikulski, Dennis, Rosemary Nellenbach. Second row: Mary Currell, Victoria Gura, Rose Baraboll, Lleanore Lipka, Sharon Hohman, Kathleen Third row: Director John R. Church, Marilyn ten, Grace l oster, Katheryn Harris, Peggy Heath, Fourth row: Joan Minkstin, Kathryn Schank, Donna Jean Clendenan, Maxine Beadle, Ruth Mitchell, Theresa Schlaud. Absent are: Vivian Anderson, Victoria Schultz, Pert. Jackie Audet, Gwendolyn Schank, Sharon Mat- Shirley Beadle, Mary Harris, Pat McGuire, Genevieve Ann Hudson, Janis Almas,, Omah Swain, June Bowman, Louise Schlaud, Joan Laur, Martha Moore. O Neill, Irene LaValley, Darla Moore, Marge Wes- Delores Pisariuk, Lorraine Lange, Elaine Laur. Joy Westen, Marcedes Podvin, Joanne Westen, Grinnell, Janice E Pratt, Catherine Ruhlman, Audrey Marge Nellenbach, Cecila Nellenbach, Dorothy SENIOR BAND All of North Branch is very proud of Mr. Church and the fine job he has done with our band Ovr re°r’d ' Christmac Concert was presented in December. Some of the numbers were ‘ Showboat,” AM Around the Christmas Tree and a group of Christmas carols. This program was repeated over the broadcasting system of the Methodist Church. The band also entertained at the Mason s banquet with popular songs of days gone by. The annual Band Festivals were held in Marlette this year in April. Our band pre ented three rew numbers; two ove tures. Grand Festival and “Mandalav,’ ap a march. We were judged in third place for Class C schoo’s. Then we journeyed to Michigan State College in East Lansing and came out with a Third Division rating. A Memorial Day service was presented at St. John’s Cemetery, preceded by a Memorial Day pa -' e throughout North Branch. The band played hymns for services at the cemetery. We also played for the grade school’s raduation, and for the annual parade of the seniors at Commencement time. JUNIOR BAND The Junior Band is a hard working and capable organization consisting of forty-six students, some of whom are eagerly planning on filling vacant chairs in next year's Senior Band. At Christmas time they presented themselves at the annual concert, playing lively marches and a Christmas selection entitled Christmas Favorites. The band also played Christmas carols while gathered around the village Christmas tree. They have also presented their talents this year at several assembly programs, and at the May as- sembly honoring the rural 8th grade graduates. SENIOR BAND Back row, left to right: S. G. Scf'ank, A. Barrett, R. lovrh. R. Sutler. Chapman R. Kreiner. R. Rutledge. B Cast'e C. McLaughlin. H. Grinnell. Rratt, D. Laur, D. Peet, E. Lipka. L. Schlaud, J. Minkstin, L. Lange. E. Mik. Seccnd row: M. Podvm S MP'er D. J. Clendenan, j. Westen. K Grinnell, B. Schlaud. E. Nolan. M. Currell. S. r:- mond I P n K- Bovman s. Matthews. S. Matthews. C. Ruh’nvn hront row: S. Swoish A. Byers Mitchell. T. Schlaud. M. Hobson, ,M‘ ange. Mr John Church. M. O'Neill, M. Westen. G H. Miller. R. Armstrong, J. Pratt, P. Patrick. R. A. Hudson, M. Westen, M. Moore, Audet, S. Beadle, A. Mikulski. S. Hoh- Ne' nbach, M. Houck. K. Harris. M. Beadle, E. Laur, P. McGuire, M. Stanley, J. Westen, C. Stortz, P. Fike, JUNIOR BAND Back row, left to right: T. Mikulski, H. McCloud, M. Ruhlman, H. Veilhaber, J. Kruschinski, B. Almas, D. McDowell, M. Laur, B. Render, B. Patrick. N. Gossman, E. Colburne. Second row: Mr. John Church, D. Stoneburg, M. Payne, R. Chambers, O. Cheney, D. Evans, S. Moore, E. Chapman, M. Martin, C. Chapman, J. Predmore, N. Martin, D. Osborn, D. Grinnell. 1 hird row: A. Swoish, majorette, R. M. Repic, majorette, M. Brusie, K. McGee, V. Scharf, J. Krake F. Fricke, J. Richards, E. Richards, P. Horton, E. Patrick, N. J. Byers, D. Albrecht, A. Lake, D. Jas- per, M. Thompson, V. Evans. In front: W. Nietze, G. Grinnell. Not pictured: E. Hurd, C. Braid wood, D. Blackmer, C. Russell. I •' • £ YOUR FRIENDLY FORD DEALER GEORGEW FITCH SON PHONE 77R2 RAYMOND BALL GENERAL MERCHANDISE SHOES WALLPAPER FOOD CLOTHING CAPS COMPLIMENTS OF CAFE QUALITY FOOD SANDWICHES SHORT ORDERS SOFT DRINKS FIRESTONE DAVID RANKIN, MANAGER NORTH BRANCH, MICH. COMPLIMENTS OF NORTH BRANCH HOTEL HARRY CHAMBERS. PROPRIETOR YOUR FRIENDLY FORD DEALER GEORGE W FITCH SON PHONE 77R2 RAYMOND BALL GENERAL MERCHANDISE SHOES WALLPAPER FOOD CLOTHING PHONE 19R2 CAPS COMPLIMENTS OF CAFE QUALITY FOOD SANDWICHES SHORT ORDERS SOFT DRINKS FIRESTONE DAVID RANKIN, MANAGER NORTH BRANCH, MICH. COMPLIMENTS OF NORTH BRANCH HOTEL HARRY CHAMBERS. PROPRIETOR NORTH BRANCH IMPLEMENT The word accuracy” applied to a McCor- mick-Deering Grain Drill means just this: exact metering of your seed to furnish a uniform supply in the quantity you want. And that fea- ture stands out in both fluted and double-run feeds. There’s a wide variety of fur- row openers, too—the right type for your soil conditions so that seed will always be placed at a umtorm depth. Talk about rugged construc- tion and durability! All-steel hoppers and bridge-type main frames with reinforced corners take care of that . . . and hold feeding mechanisms in perfect alignment. But don’t just take our word for it. Come in and find out about the McCormick-Deering model with the seeding and fertilizing jquipment you want. RAY ANDREWS UPHOLSTERING CO. REMODELING AND REFINISHING A PLEASED CUSTOMER IS OUR BEST ADVERTISEMENT 4271 E. MILL ST. PHONE 4SR3 BLACKBURN BLACKBURN FURNITURE STORE- FUNERAL HOME MRS. S. D. BLACKBURN S. D. BLACKBURN AMBULANCE SERVICE PHONE 1R3 NORTH BRANCH PHONE 1R2 NORTH BRANCH COMPLIMENTS OF PRATT’S DRUG STORE PRESCRIPTIONS, DRUG SUNDRIES, SODA FOUNTAIN PHONE 15R2 NORTH BRANCH DUNN MOTOR SALES DODGE AND PLYMOUTH SALES AND SERVICE NORTH BRANCH, MICH PHONE 72R2 COMPLIMENTS OF COMPLIMENTS OF HALPIN’S 5C TO $100 BALDWIN SHOE KENNY HALPIN, PROP. REPAIR NORTH BRANCH, MICH NORTH BRANCH ZENO B. MACK SOLDAN CREAMERY MOBILGAS — MOBILOIL ACCESSORIES — TIRE REPAIRS NORTH BRANCH, MICH PHONE 103 AND DAIRY BAR HOME MADE FREEZER FRESH ICE CREAM CREAM SOUPS PASTEURIZED MILK SPAGHETTI BUTTER CHILI SUNDAES SODAS SOFT DRINKS DEARING’S STRAND VARIETY STORE 5C — $1.00 AND UP THEATRE NORTH BRANCH, MICH NORTH BRANCH, MICH DANIEL ORR SONS HARDWARE SINCE 1875 PHONE 13R3 NORTH BRANCH, MICH BRANCH MARKET s NORTH BRANCH’S COMPLETE FOOD MARKET PHONE 61 COMPLIMENTS OF DENNIS BURNS AUCTIONEER PHONE ME AT MY EXPENSE PHONE 38F15 NORTH BRANCH JOY’S HARDWARE RADIO SHOP MAYTAG WASHERS Phene 62R2 NORTH BRANCH MOTORGLA AND SZNTINAL RADIOS PHONE 114R2 BEST WISHES TO THE GRADUATES WARD’S PHARMACY ORVILLE WARD, PROP. PHONE 3R3