Vandergrift High School - Spectator Yearbook (Vandergrift, PA)

Text from Pages 1 - 72 of the 1924 volume:

THE SPECTATOR •K� H I ! I X l-I-I-I -I -I-I-I-I -I-I P. A. Phone 760-J ••i-H-H-H-l-M1: 'H-l-H-H' I I I M-M-M-I Hill Joseph R. Calderazzo Merchant Tailor and Men’s Furnishings oAll kinds of English Broadcloth Shirts New Spring Hats and Ties 305 Longfellow Street Vandergrift, Pa. H-I I I M -I-H I 1 tA. W. LOVE The small store, with the large stock of Confectionery and Smokers’ Supplies 200A Longellow Avenue VANDERGRIFT, PENNA. For Good and Up-to-Date CLOTHES And Good Treatment Go to Max Kopelman Longfellow Avenue Come in and See our New Line in Men’s and Young Men’s Winter Suits and Top Coats L. LANDAU CLOTHIERj AND FURNISHER Grant Ave. Phone 21 L EXCLUSIVE DEALER IN MICHAELS-STERNS CLOTHES 2 THE SPECTATOR Photographs That Please Make an Appointment TODAY , rron ,36- fWephone +oi-a ndergriftBnnsytenia RAMER’S DEPARTMENT STORE DRY GOODS AND NOTIONS § LADIES’ AND CHILDREN’S COATS, SUITS, DRESSES AND MILLINERY MEN’S AND BOYS’ FURNISHINGS t 231 Longfellow St. VANDERGRIFT, PA. $ For up-to-date The Jones Maytag Co. ;; poQ WEAR Maytag Washers Hamilton Beach Sweepers f T T Cor. Harrison and Madison f I Let GEORGE Do It THE SPECTATOR 3 Enjoy A Radio Dance Hear a regular high class orchestra right in your own home through a Paramount Licensed Wide Range Radio Equipment. A Real Loud Speaker Fingal Electric Co. i 210 Longfellow St. Phone 313 Physicians Prescriptions :: Accurately Compounded I at Vandergrift Heights Pharmacy Mavis Candy and Belle Meade Sweets. Also a com- £ plete line of sundries. 301 Longfellow St. Vandergrift, Pa. J. G. ROSS, Prop. John F. Bair Justice of the Peace Real Estate and Insurance Houses to Let Rents Collected Kiski News Co. Cor. Longfellow and Wallace Sts. Phone 54 SOME GOOD BARGAINS IN TOWN PROPERTY, ALSO Dennison Store Sealing Wax, Dennison Crepe, Crepe Paper Rope, Wire, Leaves. A complete line of favors. Come In Some Good Lots for Sale on I Brick Road i A •M-M-I- THE SPECTATOR H. John George Justice of the Peace : j Real Estate Insurance t Vandergrift Drug Co. k Leading Druggists Cor. Grant Columbia Aves. j Vandergrift, Pa. [ Fresh Kodak Films Penn-Grant Beauty Parlor ; For Ladies and Gentlemen A Graduate Beauty Specialist ; for the Ladies Curls, Puffs and Switches I Phone 715, 716 or 717 for an Ij appointment j C. D. OWENS, Prop. Assisted by ] Mme. Gilliam-Douglas and J. M. Lindsay 125 Washington Ave. • Vandergrift, Pa. ! Gregg’s Bakery Fresh Pies, Cakes and Bread DAILY Kiski Milk Co. t Cold Weather is Coming. Pure Milk and Cream : Let Us Do Your Washing f 1: GOOD SERVICE JOSEPH POUNDS, Prop. I FAIR PRICES Farragut and Grant Ave. • Vandergrift Laundry Co. Phones 751 and 269 L j E. J. WALCOTT, Mgr. THE SPECTATOR Watson’s Ice Cream Factory Pre-War Prices WHOLESALE AND RETAIL QUART 40c ESKIMO PIES Special Prices for Large Orders Madison Ave. Phone 189 Robert E. Flickinger NOTARY PUBLIC Real Estate and Insurance 304 Longfellow Street, Vandergrift, Pa. OUR steadily growing business is the surest proof as to £ the character of our work. We show our appreciation | of your patronage by faithfully fulfilling our obligation to you. GRANT STUDIO Copying Enlarging Photographs of Distinction Photography 137 A Grant Ave—Phone 229 WE SPECIALIZE IN BABY PORTRAITS H. D. Andes Furniture Exchange 144 Washington Avenue Phone 544 A Milton E. Uncapher REAL ESTATE | and INSURANCE Notary Public •M-l-H-H-H- CONTENTS OUR FLAG, THE ONLY FLAG THIS SEASON EDITORIAL— Patriotism High School Failures Lest We Forget Courage and Perseverance LITERARY- HOW Jim Love Saved the Day Tony and America Slumming Johnny—A Hero A Modern Declaration of Independence SKETCHES— “Dreams Come True” America’s First Colleges Gettysburg Heroines The Liberty Bell The Death of Abraham Lincoln The Character of George Washington General Robert Lee “The Old Block House” POETRY— Why Worry “Poppies” Winter “Leap Year” Forlorn and Deserted MUSIC— High School Orchestra Lincoln Building Orchestra Music Memory Contest Glee Club Music The Life of Francis Scott Key A Patriotic Song Review NEVER-TO-BE-FORGOTTEN WORDS CLASS NOTES HOME ECONOMICS SPORTS COLLEGE NEWS ALUMNI EXCHANGE ARMY CHATTER THE SPECTATOR Volume 6 PATRIOTIC NUMBER, 1924 Number 2 PUBLISHED DURING THE SCHOOL TERM BY STUDENTS OF VANDERGRIFT HIGH SCHOOL EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ............................ Joseph Lazier ASSISTANT EDITOR ......................—i...—• Fred Neff LITERARY EDITOR .......................... Margaret Loring ASSISTANT LITERARY EDITOR ................... Naomi Black SMILES .................................. Alice Streightif CLASS NOTES ............................. Catherine Gregg DOMESTIC SCIENCE ....................... Elizabeth Barclay MISCELLANEOUS .............................. Winona Love ATHLETICS .........................-....... Pauline Bolar EXCHANGE ............................................ Beulah Burkehart MUSIC .................................. Madeline Ferguson ALUMNI EDITOR ......................................... Alda Bain ARTIST .................................-. Gladys Phillips CLASS NOTES SENIOR .....,............... - -.... Juliet Costanzo JUNIOR ............................ Estella Bromwich SOPHOMORE ............................. Nellie Gagen FRESHMEN ............................ Valjean Orr FACULTY ADVISOR ....................-.. Edith Steel BUSINESS STAFF BUSINESS MANAGER ................... Professor Margraf ASSISTANT BUSINESS MANAGER .................... Leslie Brookhart ASSISTANT ADVERTISING MANAGER Howard Hill SECRETARY .............................. Marie George TREASURER ..................... -..... Martha Anderson PUBLICITY MANAGER ................................ Ena Buckley Our Flag, the Only Flag “Our flag is the only flag,” Said a little boy to his brother, “I wouldn’t give up my Red, White and Blue, For fear I would not get another.” Red, White, and Blue stands for Liberty, And Liberty we all shall attain, Each man, woman, and child alone Shall have Liberty just the same. The stars are for states there are forty-eight, The White Stripes for purity blend. The Red Stripes were washed in the Martyr’s blood, And they’ll all stay together till the end. When our flag does not stand for Liberty, Let the earth be worn and oppressed. But I’ll stand for my flag till the very end’s end, Or the country’s no longer at rest. The flag will fly o’er the forty-eight states, For many long years to come, It will fly for the poor and the needy For FREEDOM for them has been won. I love the flag to the depth of my heart, Would I let it be wasted? No, never, I’d carry it high on a pole in the air, To show nations we’ve FREEDOM forever. —Margaret Hamilton, 26. THE SPECTATOR 9 This Season JANUARY Birthstone—Garnet or Onyx Flower—Snowdrop. The Horoscope: The horoscope for the time between December 21 and January 20 is denoted by the sign of the Zodiac-Capricorn. The people bom under this sign seem to live in a rarified atmosphere. They possess a very religious air and are a bit cold, haughty, and aristocratic, so they seem to hold themselves aloof from the common people. Examples of these types of people are Woodrow Wilson, Alexander Hamilton, William E. Gladstone, and Daniel Webster. This type of persons are particularly adapted to the dramatic stage, pulpit, the classroom or lyceum platform. It is almost impossible to excite or flatter these people, for they are not easily flurried. They are very determined and possess much will power, knowing what they want and then usually getting it. In spite of their energy and enthusiasm these people are inclined to be rather narrow minded and selfish. They are often a prey to morbid conditions but this may be overcome if they forget themselves and be less self-centered. Capricorn people are usually successful in business and realize the value of money. They are capable of obtaining a high degree of polish and culture. They think and consider all things as being serious and would rather attend lectures than musical comedies and read essays in preference to fiction. Their most advantageous marriages are those formed with those bom under the sign of Taurus. January 1—Happy New Year! Watch your step. January 7—School again. When’s the next vacation? How soon are tests ? January 8—Basketball game—V. H. S. vs. A. H. S. January 11—Basketball game—Indiana at Vandergrift. January 17—Birthday of Benjamin Franklin—Born 1706. January 18—Birthday of Lee. January 22—Basketball game—Ford City at Vandergrift. January 25—Vandergrift at Kittanning. January 29—Birthday of William McKinley —Bom 1843. January 29—Leechburg at Vandergrift. FEBRUARY Birthstone—Amethyst. Flower—Primrose. Sign of the Zodiac—Aguarius, (Waterman.) Horoscope—(From January 20 to February 19.) Persons bom under the sign of Aguarius are inclined to be great dreamers. They build many castles in the air—then see them dissolve. They may be called the world’s bubble blowers. Their ambitions are unlimited yet they always lack the power to realize these ambitions. They never fret or complain and are always even tempered, quiet, and dignified. Some of our most distinguished men were Aguarius born—Lincoln, McKinley, and Lord Byron. The child of Aquarius is endowed with a high sense of honor, an enviable poise, a retentive memory and good manners. If he would wake up, have confidence in himself he would make an admirable leader. He has talent for Mathematics and Astronomy and can hold positions of great responsibility. He is probably the happiest when serving humanity. One of this type should wed with those born under the sign of Gemini, Leo, or Libra. February 1—Basketball game—Apollo at Vandergrift. February 2—Ground Hog Day. February 5—Basketball game — Vandergrift at Ford City. February 9—Roosevelt National Memorial Day. February 12—Lincoln’s Birthday — Born 1809. 10 THE SPECTATOR February 14—St. Valentine’s Day. February 19—Basketball game—Kittanning at Vandergrift. February 22—Basketball game — Vander- grift at Leechburg. February 22—George Washington’s Birthday—Born 1732. MARCH Stone—Bloodstone. Flower—Violet. Sign of the Zodiac—Pisces, (the fishes.) Horoscope—(From February 19 to March 21.) Timidity, sensitiveness, and the lack of self-confidence are the principal weaknesses of those whose birth sign is the fishes. They never boast of their achievements and are that kind who hide their light under a bushel. From their ranks have risen great poets, writers and actors. They make especially good farmers and mechanics, but are fond of responsibility, and are capable of holding positions of trust. They have the faculty of absorbing knowledge, but lack the ability of imparting it to others. They are unselfish, placid, and honorable in their dealings with their fellow men. They neither ask nor expect favors and seldom run into debt. In their desire to do right they are often foolish, spending both themselves and their money recklessly If they would be less self-sacrificing; if they would lean less on others for support; if they would remember that the world usually accepts one at his own valuation; they would get more out of life. People of this sign should learn to overcome petty anxieties and worries and to be less modest. As it is, their faults are mostly negative, though they are good at heart. For their life partners they should look under Capricorn, Cancer, or Virgo. March 5—Ash Wednesday. March 17—St. Patrick’s Day. March 20—Spring begins. “In the spring a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.” —Winona Love, ’24. THE SPECTATOR 11 PATRIOTISM Soldier, rest; thy warfare o’er, Sleep the sleep that knows not breaking; Dream of battled fields no more, Days of danger, nights of waking. In our isles enchanted hall. Hands unseen thy couch are strewing, Fairy strains of music fall, Every sense in slumber dewing. Soldier, rest! thy welfare o’er, Dream of fighting fields no more; Sleep the sleep that knows not breaking Mom of toil, nor night of waking. —Scott’s “Soldier, Rest!” - . .| HAT is patriotism—It is that natur-W al sentiment that prompts us to gserg-j love our country, be devoted to its welfare and support its authority and interests. It is actuated by a zealous desire, a passion inspiring us to serve our country. Patriotism is universal, for— “Breathes there the man with soul so dead, Who never to himself hath said, This is my own, my native land.” Patriotism is inspirational, for it inspires a whole people’s confidence, a whole people’s love and the whole world’s respect. Patriotism knows no obstacles nor does it shx-ink at a seeming impossibility. It was patriotism that inspired the great men of our history to record their deeds of valor in the face of almost certain defeat. It was patriotism, that undying love for their country that gave our meager, poorly supplied forces the needed courage to make a last, fearless stand against almost insurmountable odds—against the well drilled troops of the British during the dark days of the Revolution when everything seemed hopelessly lost. It was patriotism that enabled our men to live through that dreary dismal winter at Valley Forge and still have faith that their sacrifices for the noble 12 THE SPECTATOR principles they were struggling for would not be in vain, that they would ultimately obtain those principles. It was patriotism that prompted the men in the blue to battle against their countrymen in the Civil war. In that case, patriotism, the desire to preserve the Union at all cost was greater than brotherly love. This act of patriotism, the desire to rid the world of the unholy ambition of one man and make the world “safe for Democracy,” that aroused our men who broke through the almost impregnable defense of Hindenburg’s line and made history laud their exploits in the battles of St. Mihiel, Chateau Thierry and the Argonne Forest. The position of those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of their country is so secure in the hearts of men that no monument however imposing can add to their renown. They were great in heart, in purpose and in sacrifice, in endeavor and in achievement. The tragedy of their death only added to the glory of their life and the passing years have es- tablished their high positions on the world’s roll of honor. Patriotism is intimately blended with whatever belongs most essentially to the prosperity, the liberty, the free institutions and the renown of our country. Patriotism was a power to rally a nation in an hour of thick-thronging public disasters and calamities. Patriotism was a power that shone amid the storm of war, a beacon light to cheer and guide the country’s friends. That is why our thoughts should center on higher things, on love of country, gratitude to our nations defenders, including those who died that this country might be free, those who gave the supreme sacrifice that the Union might live, and those who sleep beneath the lilies of France—who brought on the conclusion of the greatest war that ever convulsed this planet, the starting point of a new epoch in history, destined to bless all mankind. —Joseph Lazier, ’24. HIGH SCHOOL FAILURES (Published by Request) HE movement on the part of the principal and faculty of the Norwood High School to reduce the number of failures among the students is a noteworthy one. In the first place it is constructive. It is hitting a problem at the source and before it has grown to larger proportions. A failure attacked and overcome in November is a slight skirmish in comparison with the heavy fighting that would ensue in May. In instructing the students on methods of studying the faculty will be doing its share. However, that is only one-third of the battle. The real issue is clearly up to the students themselves. Of course some wall put up a smoke barrage—employment outside of school hours, helping the parents, etc., etc. But, school records will prove that very often the busy students, the ones who work after school, who are leaders in the various school activities, are the ones who rate high in scholarship. In order to accomplish their ends they must of necessity schedule their time carefully. This results in close application to the task in hand. No frittering away of precious time with such students. Surely the boy or girl with only lessons to get and a minimum of helping to do in the home, can keep a high grade if he or she wall. It all simmers down to the WILL to study. Sometimes a student may have a natural desire to study but home conditions do not tend to make study an accepted fact or factor in home-life. Parents are the ones on wrhom the issue ultimately rests. It is unquestionably their duty to provide the proper environment for concentrated study, to encourage it and if needs be to enforce it. A good table, a good light and as far as possible general quiet should be provided. Lessons learned, then pleasure should be the sequence and not, as so often happens, the opposite order. An ideal environment of study includes dictionary and encyclopedia and a few current periodicals. Sad to relate, there are homes where every luxury is indulged in, but where one searches, as for a needle in a haystack to find a plain ordinary dictionary. The real settling then of the whole matter of High School failures is co-operation THE SPECTATOR 13 of teachers, students and parents, a pulling together for the same end and a keeping on pulling from now ti’l next June. To lessen High School Failures the following method was successfully tried: Study blanks were sent to the parents, and rules of study were enclosed, some of which were as follows: Have one definite place for home study. Make up your mind that you CAN and WILL master this work, and then work intensively every minute. CONCENTRATE, DETERMINE to like each and every subject. Seek real motives for your work. Study ALONE, as a rule, and do NOT depend on others for help. First, make a rapid survey of the lesson assigned. Next, study intensively the IMPORTANT or DIFFICULT points. Connect each day’s work with the preceding one. —Selected. LEST WE FORGET NOTHER great war has passed, and has wrought its havoc among the noblest hearts of many nations. Yet we seem to have forgotten those brave soldiers who gave up their lives for their country’s cause. And they died for us, that we might not know the awful horrors of war, and that our nation might stand triumphantly in the right. We, in our comfortable homes and with all the modem conveniences of today, cannot realize what those fighters in the trenches and on the fields of France endured without complaint. However, they did not stop at these small things, but some paid the supreme price and died on those bloody battlefields. Surely they deserve to be remembered and honored by those who are enjoying the benefits derived from that victory which they helped to bring about. And not only those who died, but also those who bear the scars of battle, they too, deserve the name of real patriots. So lest we forget, let us keep in mind the service these men rendered and give them the honor which is their due. —Agnes Allen, ’26. COURAGE AND PERSEVERANCE OURAGE and Perseverance are the only routes to success. Without courage one cannot grasp opportunities to attempt a task which, at the time, might seem impossible and difficult, while without perserverance one cannot go through the difficulties and obstacles arising in these tasks when once grasped. Through history and life we have many incidents which prove this fact to be true. For instance, without courage, how would Columbus have dared to attempt to cross that “Sea of Darkness” and once embarked how, without perseverance, could he have ordered his sailors to “Sail On , “Sail On” when they were at the verge of mutiny? Then what would our country be if it had not been for Washington, who strived with the greatest courage and perseverance at Valley Forge and other places to gain for us our Independence so that we might struggle in life with higher hopes of prosperity, happiness and freedom? Moreover, not only in history, but in life —in the life of today do, we find in business, studies, arts, courage and perseverance. Business men will take great risks, attempt new methods, ideas, and schemes, so that they may obtain greater business, and better opportunities and success. Then why not apply these two important factors even to the student. He has many difficulties, many hardships, and then many opportunities to attain his one ambition, to make himself something. He cannot do these without courage, nor can he complete these without perseverance, but with these two factors, he may be successful in all he undertakes. If all will take as their motto “Courage and Perseverance” no one ever needs to use the word “can’t” for this motto shall lead all to become fearless and able to undertake the tasks of life with success. —Teresa Costanzo, ’26. 14 THE SPECTATOR HOW JIM LOVE SAVED THE DAY N the ambulance division of the American Forces in France, was a tall slender lad by the name of James Love. James was hardly known to his companions by his right name, but always by the nickname “Slim Jim”. To Slim’s companions he would make a better washwoman than a soldier, for he was always telling of what he would like to do but never got a chance. Slim was very skilful in t e handling of a large truck and was also a very good mechanic. For this reason Jim was appointed driver of the largest ambulance in his division. In exhibition work Jim could do more with his large truck than the others could with the smaller ones. This made Love a companion and friend of all. Day by day passed and Jim Love still had the happy high spirit that he had had in the beginning, though each day became blacker and more dreadful about the Red Cross Station. One evening about dusk when the fire of the enemies’ guns had slackened and the fellows were all grouped together and talking about some news that had been received, Slim Jim started telling stories to help put a smile on the faces which were now showing distress and sadness. In the midst of a very interesting story that Love was telling he stopped, and was noticed to be looking in the opposite direction. His companions looked but could see nothing save the setting of the sun which was very beautiful that evening. They asked what was the matter. His answer to them was the continuance of the story. It was noticed that he seemed to waver a bit in his talk but did not stop. All at once Slim jumped to his feet, looked, turned on his heel and made straight for his truck, leaving his companions in wonderment. He started the engine and the truck gave a leap as it started on its mad dash in the direction in which Slim had looked. Slim was soon so far away that he appeared as a mere speck against the setting sun. By this time Jim’s companions started to laugh at what they thought one of Slim’s silly notions. Presently he appeared and seemed to be coming back, but a little slower than he was accustomed to come. His friends looked for a moment and soon discovered that something had happened. They started to meet him, and to their surprise found Jim towing a truck of the same size as his. They soon reached camp and the members of the squad all rushed up to Slim and very eagerly demanded how he knew the other truck, which was loaded to its capacity with ammunition, was there. Jim merely grinned and said, “I have heard trucks before and know when they are in need.” I heard this one while I was telling the story and at the moment I jumped I heard it grind its last. But let’s stop the argument as this ammunition has to THE SPECTATOR 15 be at the front by midnight or we will never see home again. Everyone looked' in wonderment at one another until Jim broke the silence by saying that he would load it on his track and take it through immediately. Woi-k began to load the track. No argument was aroused as to who should drive the track through for Slim Jim was the only one capable of handling a loaded truck of this size through the almost impossible roads that led to the front. No time was wasted and Jim was soon in position in his truck for the perilous journey. Everyone was anxious to know who Jim would choose for his companion on this journey. He started the engine and gave a last look over the camp; then called out with a sturdy voice “Shorty.” In an instant a little short fellow, that made the company view the two as Mutt and Jeff, was sitting by his side. The truck moved off and a cheer of good luck went up as they left the camp. Onward they sped. For hours neither spoke a word to each other. Finally Jim said, “Shorty, this truck must reach the front and one of us or both of us must see it through.” Silence was again between the two. The only sound was the roar of the powerful engine of the track and the continual almost deafening roar of the guns, and the shells exploding near by. Jim all at once jammed on the brakes and checked the speed of the car just as a large shell passed and burst near by. “Whoo-oo” gasped Shorty, “that was a close one.” “Yes”, laughed Slim, “that’s close enough to this load of German Talcum Powder.” All went well till something happened to the truck. It stopped and in a place very uncomfortable to both boys for they were by this time nearing the front and the shells were bursting close at hand. Slim Jim leaped from the seat and immediately started to look over the engine while Shorty crawled under the track to see if he could locate the trouble and fix it. Soon both boys leaped into the seat and the truck started on its way. Not a minute too soon for a large shell burst in the spot in which the car had stopped. Shorty looked at Slim, patted him on the back and said, “Stick to it, Slim, we’re almost there.” After these words Shorty dropped from his seat dead. He had been hit with a piece of flying shrapnel. Slim also got a piece in the right arm putting it out of use. He still pressed on harder than ever though very weary both from the loss of a friend and partner and from the lack of blood that was gushing from his wound. Almost exhausted and very weak he came in sight of the dug-out that was to receive the powder. With new spirit and hopes he pressed the track to its utmost. Soon he reached the trenches and brought the truck to a halt, just as a piece of shrapnel struck the front end of the huge truck. Slim Jim fell helpless to the ground. He was immediately picked up by some soldiers that were coming to meet him. Jim came to some hours later and found himself in one of the cots of the Red Cross quarters from which he had started. His first words to his companions who had gathered around him were, “Did I get there in time?” The answer to this was the pinning of a medal on him by the captain who said that Jim had saved the day. —Kenneth Smith, ’24. TONY AND AMERICA OU know Tony; he’s one purty nice boy. He go fight for America; he ketch nice suit and gun, he go kick German man and knock the stuffing out. Tony he write home, he says he dig zee trench. He says he talk zee French. He says he fight little bit, eat little bit, and take zee prisoner. Tony he say German shoot and hit Tony in the leg. Tony he go to hospital; Tony says there nice nurse and he hate to get well; but he say U. S. best country on earth and he be glad to fight some more Germans for Uncle Sam. Then he says he marry nice French girl and start fruit stand. Tony says he bring back piece of Kaiser’s mustache and frame it. Tony he one nice boy. I’m his papa. —James Ruth, ’28. 16 THE SPECTATOR SLUMMING T was the outcome of my Social Service visit to Grogan’s Alley that brings about this story. Jane and I always hated to visit this particular place, for of all our visits there seemed to be more heartache and misery in the tenements of this district than in all the others taken together, no matter how terrible they may be. I shuddered as we entered the alley. We soon separated, Jane to go her way and I, mine. My attention was soon attracted by a thoroughly drunken man. I noticed with pain, that he wore the dear old khaki of which we are all so familial-. I admit I was frightened but I decided to try to pass him. As he approached me I noticed his sunken eyes search my face with a look that I could not understand. I was astonished to see that he was very young and—well—handsome. I drew my coat more tightly about me as I attempted to pass him, but he would not have it that way. He caught at me, but I, having the advantage, on account of his condition, cleverly dodged him and fairly flew down the street. I hurried into a dirty hallway for my first visit. A pitiful cry floated to my ear as I walked down the hall. As I opened the door and gazed into the room I felt like turning my back on the misery within, but my duty called me and I calmly walked over to the bed where lay a woman. She was not over twenty-eight, but she looked so worn and haggard she might have been taken for forty. I greeted her cheerily but she only shook her head and turned away. I picked up the baby and began to quiet its crying. When I left that room an hour later both the occupants were sleeping peacefully and the room had a much better appearance. Thanks to my hour of faithful efforts! I gave a little happy sigh as I went my way. As I walked along the narrow hallway I heard footsteps of a person coming in my direction. In the dim light I recognized the young man of my encounter in the earlier part of the day. The sight of me seemed to quiet his nerves for I thought I could see some of the pain- leave his face. He spoke and then I realized he was sane and sober. My heart missed a beat. He seemed to understand my mystified look for he began to explain his conduct of our former meeting. He told of his endless search for work. His last resort had been gambling. He had been tricked into a game by a ring of crooks and, fortunately, he had won. The crooks had dragged him and stolen his winnings. When I met him he was suffering from the after effects of the drag and the pain had crazed him. He apologized for his actions, saying that he knew what he was doing but did not have the power to check himself. I forgave him and then he invited me to his home. After a moment of hesitation I accepted and followed him down the hall. He stopped before the door of the room I had just left. He opened the door and gave a little gasp of surprise when he saw the transformation of the room. He then bade me to sit down as he walked over to the bedside and lightly kissed the forehead of the sick woman. She opened her eyes and seemed relieved to find him home again. We then had a little three cornered talk and I discovered that the man was not her husband as I supposed him to be but her brother. The woman was a widow. I learned that before the war they had been accustomed to luxury, but the war had wiped away all their fortune. He liked business but had never had an opportunity to see what he could do, owing to the war. I determined then and there that he should have his chance for there were those few thousands that my father had left me waiting for a chance for a good investment like this. One year later as I entered a little store room, my eyes searched hungrily for the manager. Later as I sat in his neat little office, I smiled as I thought how closely related we soon would be. No, I did not marry Jack Kearns for what would a little crabby old maid like me want with such a young man as Jack? No, I was thinking of Jane, my niece, who was to marry Jack the next day and— I was contented! —Ethel Buckley, ’26. THE SPECTATOR 17 JOHNNY—A HERO sn |OHN Wilson, Jr., was very angry. Just at the beginning of a game of “Hare and Hound”, his mother called him from his pals. Johnny went, scowling and grumbling to where his mother stood. “Johnny, dear”, began mother, “run down to the store and get me some vanilla and I will give you a nickel.” “Don’t want to go,” said Johnny sourly. For a while mother coaxed but when Johnny appeared obstinate, she lost her patience with him and said, “Now, young man, you march down to that store and get what I said and then you can stay in the house for the rest of the evening.” At bedtime Johnny stalked to his room and there made the terrible resolve to run away. Taking his little bank and slipping on his coat, he opened his window and stepped out on the balcony. He swiftly climbed over the railing and slid down the rainspout. What should he do? Johnny sat down on the steps to think. At last he decided to take a last visit to the state bank and look at his beloved statue of Lincoln. As he drew near the bank, he was surprised to see three men silently open the back door of the bank and dart in. Johnny thought this strange so he quietly tip-toed to the door and peeped through the crack. He drew back, astonished and dismayed, for he had seen the men open the largest vault and go in. At last he ventured to look again. He could not see the men but he could hear them move the papers around and whisper. Johnny stood for a time in thought and then crept away. As fast as his fat little legs could carry him, he ran until he arrived at the door of the police station and kicked the door with all his might. One of the night police opened the door. Johnny hurriedly told his story. The officers consulted together a few minutes and concluded that there might be some truth in the child’s story, but how did he happen to see the men? Johnny told the policemen that he had started to run away. Starting immediately for the bank, tne men and the boy reached it by the way of a dark alley. Going to the door, they looked in, to see several sachels full of money, bonds, and the like. Then the policemen waited in the shadows until finally the burglars came out of the bank. Suddenly the thieves found themselves surrounded by officers of the law, who demanded surrender. Two quickly put up their arms, but the third whipped out a revolver, shooting as it came out of his pocket. The bullet sailed unerringly into Johnny’s arm. The last thing Johnny remembered was being lifted carefully from the ground where he had fallen. The next morning, mother read the head lines of the daily paper to him: SMALL BOY MADE HERO BY SAVING THE STATE BANK “O, mother,” cried Johnny happily, as he put his uninjured arm about her neck, “Ain’t you glad I got mad at you?” —Virginia Young, ’28. A MODERN DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE — -.1 HEN, in the course of High School life, it becomes necessary for the jjgOTj students to disso've the paternal bands which have connected them with the most exacting faculty, and to assume among the intellectual powers of the world an equal station, to which the laws of nature and intellect entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of learned critics requires they should declare the causes which compels them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident:— That all men are created equally brilliant: that they are endowed by the school board with certain unalienable rights: that among these are freedom of whispering, chewing gum, and day dreaming. We, the Seniors of V. H. S. feel that by right of the long train of abuses and indignities that we have endured from the faculty for the past three years, we may throw off their control over our daily lives, and institute a student government, which shall give those privileges which we feel are due us. The history of the reign of the present 18 THE SPECTATOR faculty is a history of repeated horrors and tyrannical outrages. To prove this let facts be submitted to a candid public: They have forbidden our taking strolls at various intervals over our beautiful and extensive campus. When a crime is committed we are sent to the judge’s office without witnesses and prosecuted without a trial by jury. They have cruelly taxed us with extremely heavy tests such as most of our fellow-students are unable to meet. They do not permit us to have any voice in the making of the laws. New instructors are being installed and every one is a sworn enemy to the students. They have refused to let us test that great saying “Great minds run in the same channel” by prohibiting our talking to our friends and seeing what is really running through their minds. They have taken the joy from the Hallowe’en Season, by levying atrocious bimonthly tests—due the week previous to Hallowe’en. They have persisted in overloading our careworn minds with lengthy and difficult lessons thereby necessitating our staying in nights, studying, when we might be having a most profitable and enjoyable time elsewhere. Moreover, we have given no cause for these outrages. Our princely behavior deserves no such reward; our magnanimity and conscientious performance of sacred duties is worthy of the finest treatment at the hands of the esteemed faculty. We therefore, the Representatives of the Senior Class of ’24, in general meeting assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of Education, do in the name and by the authority of our most worthy classmates, solemnly publish and declare that they are henceforth subject only to their own wills; and are absolutely free of any tyrannical sway on the part of the aforementioned Professor, Faculty, and School Board. And for support of this declaration, we mutually pledge to each other, our lives, our fortunes, our honor. The foregoing Declaration was by order of Committee, engrossed and signed by the following officials— President, Delbert Secrist Vice President, Pauline Bolar Secretary, Winona Love Treasurer, Howard Hill “DREAMS COME TRUE” ERHAPS many of our imaginative scholars have idly dreamed of V. H. S. with a wonderful auditorium, and a very modern gymnasium, but have they let their dreams go so far as to imagine a swimming pool ? Somehow, in the past, we have gotten along without these modern equipments of every school, but can we say our school was up to the standard? In some things, “Yes”; in others, “No”. How can any school keep its athletics up to the standard without a place for practice ? Our basket ball activity has been of the average but this year the boys have entered upon the season with a vim and determination to win, which, although it should not be unusual, may be given credit to our new gymnasium and its effect upon them. As yet the girls have not practiced for basket ball, but they have organized and expect to start practicing in the near future. More than likely they will be urged on by the same spirit as the boys. So far no plan for daily practice in the gym has been made, but this will probably come, after the biuldings are entirely completed. Without our auditorium we students of V. H. S. have missed some of the most interesting and beneficial times of our school days. W'e have missed the early fellowship of a daily chapel exercise which almost every other school enjoys. Previously in Vandergrift, we have lacked what might be termed a center of all things, which our auditorium will now supply. All kinds of entertainment can be held here and meetings of all sorts, religious or educational. Lecture courses can be given which heretofore, we have not had because we did not have a convenient place for the holding of such things. Now this will be changed and I’m sure not only the students, but the citizens of Vandergrift will receive the benefit of the auditorium. The auditorium has a very large stage and a seating capacity of about seventeen hundred. The swimming pool seems to incite more interest among the students than any of the other attractions probably because it is new, for not every school can boast of a swimming pool. The people of the town will get the benefit of this addition as well as the others. 20 THE SPECTATOR Plans have been made to hold swimming classes in the evening for the town folks. Let us hope that in the pleasure and enjoyment we get from these additions, we will not forget our regular studies, which in the long run, mean more to us and the standard of our school than athletics. Just a word of thanks to all the friends of our school, who did their part, in helping to bring this wonderful work about. Let us hope that they themselves will get the benefit as well as the students of Vander-grift High School. —Catherine Gregg, ’24. AMERICA’S FIRST COLLEGES w w iARVARD, the oldest institution for £ 1 higher education in America, was founded sixteen years after the landing of the Pilgrims. From the earliest days to the present time it has secured a leadership among educational institutions in the United States. It was the first to allow the changes of education, the most important of these being the elective system (This system allows the student to select his own studies). From this institution three of our most important and popular presidents have graduated, John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and Theodore Roosevelt. Not only men in the political field have graduated from here; but men of literature also. The name Harvard was given to the institution in honor of a Puritan who had died and left his fortune and his small library amounting to 250 books in general, to the institution. Princeton University is located in Princeton, New Jersey. This institution was founded by the Presbyterians of New York as a college of New Jersey. This university consists of three different departments, the academic, science, and the graduate department. It was the first American college to make provisions regarding chemistry and was among the first to recognize the elective system. It is also to be praised as a college where some of the founders and builders of the nations were at one time registered among the student body. Yale University is situated in New Haven, Connecticut. It was founded by ten ministers. It was later named Yale in honor of a son of one of the founders of New Haven. This institution is recognized as a school of several different departments such as the graduate, arts, science, academic, theology, philosophy, law, and medicine departments. It is also noted for its valuable library consisting of about 600,000 volumes. One thing significant regarding this insti- tution is the forest school, which was founded in 1900 by Mr. and Mrs. Pinchot and sons. Graduates of this school are given a special degree of master of forestry. Columbia University is one of the oldest and most important institutions in the United States. This university is situated in New York overlooking the Hudson river. In 1754 a charter was granted by King George II and the college was called Kings. Later some years after the close of the Revolutionary war the school was called Columbia. Some of the most important departments are the professional schools, the college of physicians and surgeons, the schools of mining engineering, chemistry and teachers. Women are admitted as professional students to the teachers college and to the college of pharmacy. William and Mary College is situated at Williamsburg, Virginia and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education for men in the United States. The charter was granted in 1693 by William and Mary of England. It is supported by the state of Virginia and during the Revolutionary war it was given up by the students as a barrack for soldiers. From here, three of our presidents have graduated and a host of other prominent men such as army officers, senators, governors, and ministers. Vassar College is located near Poughkeepsie, New York. It was the generosity of Matthew Vassar who donated 200 acres with $800,000 for the founding of a college for women. It is one of the oldest and foremost of American colleges. The campus is on a hill near the Hudson. Many of the large buildings are gifts of the alumnae and the trustees. Mrs. Fredrick F'rris Thompson donated a library consisting of 9,000 volumes as a memorial for her husband who had served as a trustee for many years. Vassar has a faculty of 145 and the student registration is 1,100. —Dorothy Lauffer, :24. THE SPECTATOR 21 GETTYSBURG HEROINES 'XE cannot read of the history of the Battle of Gettysburg without feeling a thrill of admiration for the women who so courageously served and even gave their lives for their country. One incident which is related concerns a woman named Annie Etheridge, just out of her teens, who volunteered as a daughter of a regiment in the Army of the Potomac. She served four years and was presented with a badge by her state, for her devotion to the wounded at Gettysburg. Though not called upon to fight, Annie had spirit enough to make a battle heroine. At Gettysburg she went to the outposts with the skirmishers and was ordered back. On her way back she discovered a line of low trenches, where the enemy lay concealed, so turning her face to the front she called “Boys do your duty, and whip those fellows!” A hearty cheer was the response and a volley was poured into the hidden trenches. Annie was hit in the hand, her horse was wounded, and her skirt was riddled. She performed deeds of daring in bringing wounded from the field under fire, turning a retreating party of soldiers face about by offering to lead them. On the battle field she toiled under the scorching sun and the pouring rains with no thought but for those who were suffering and dying all around her. The story of pretty Jennie Wade is a very romantic and sad one. To Corporal Johnson Skelly, she was the ideal—the girl he left behind him. It was her picture and her letters that cheered him during long and weary days at the front and then he was wounded and for lack of medical attention, life fled. Mercifully Jennie did not hear of her lover’s death for she herself was to be sorely tried. The stork that cares for neither war nor peace had visited the home of her sister, and in order that the baby have attention, and the mother be made comfortable, Jennie and her mother had gone to the little red house that lay in the path of the invading enemy. When the lead begun to fly, Jennie was placidly baking. While the battle waged fiercer the girl went on kneading dough, undismayed by her obvious danger. But finally a bullet found its way into Jennie’s kitchen and with a convulsive cry she clasped her hands to her breast and fell. But perhaps after all it was a friendly bullet that kept her frorp learning that her sweetheart had found a friendless grave only a few days before. Annie Roberts is but another example of indomitable courage. Young, gentle, affectionate Annie, hearing that the regiment in which her brother and husband were enrolled, scarcely existed except for its dying and its dead, unhesitatingly set out for the fateful scene. Reaching it she trod the blood soaked fields searching among the prostrate bodies for her loved ones. From hospital to hospital, and trench to trench amid rain and mud she trudged on day after day. Did Annie Roberts succeed? She found her noble gray-haired brother with a leg torn off and at length she heard from her brave husband who was a wounded prisoner at Libby. These are but typical of many cases of bravery and devotion, but they all point to one fact, that these women loved their country and their flag and were ready and willing, if necessary, to give their lives for her. Pauline Bolar, ’24. THE LIBERTY BELL VERY person in this broad land is proud of the old Liberty Bell. It is a sacred and silent witness now of the great deeds of long ago. November 1st, 1751, the superintendents of the old Statehouse in Philadelphia, wrote to London and asked for a good bell of about 2000 pounds weight. The bell came in August, 1752. When it was hung and tried for the sound, it was cracked by a stroke of the clapper, witnout any violence whatever. The bell was re-cast in Philadelphia, but it made such a poor sound that it was again broken up and re-cast. This time it was satisfactory. On July 8th, 1776, this bell became famous. On that day the Statehouse yard was crowded with eager patriots. They had 22 THE SPECTATOR met to hear the reading of the great Declaration of Independence. When it was read the multitude gave a mighty shout. But above the roar of human voices rang out, sharp and bold, the great bell. Its tongue spoke defiance to tyranny and comfort to the colonists. Its stern voice sounded from sea to sea. It called the men of Georgia to join the men of Massachusetts. It sounded through city and forest, calling merchant and farmer and forester to the front. Its notes rang across the rugged sea and sent a shudder through England. The Liberty Bell it was. It called the men of America to their duty. It rang for Independence! In 1777 it was hastily placed on a wagon and hurried to Allentown, that the British might not break it up and cast it into cannon. It was returned late in 1778. For fifty years it rang the glad tidings of liberty on every anniversary! On the morning of July 8th, 1835, while it was tolling the solemn news of the death of Chief Justice Marshall, who died in Philadelphia two days before, it cracked. On February 22, 1843, it was rang to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of the greatest American. But the old bell could not bear the strain, the crack lengthened and widened, and its tongue became silent forever. —Martha Staniek, ’28. THE DEATH OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN N April 14th., the manager of Ford’s Theatre invited the President and General Grant to witness the representation of “Our American Cousin” and it was announced that they both would be present but Grant was obliged to leave the city. Lincoln, feeling that it would be a disappointment if he should fail, relunctantly consented to go. With his wife and two friends, he reached the theatre a little before nine o’clock, and took seats in a box reserved for the party. The whole audience rose as the President entered, and he was greeted with the greatest enthusiasm. As Lincoln was listening with great interest to the play, an actor named John Wilkes Booth reached the door of the box where the President was seated, presented a pistol within a few inches of Lincoln’s head, and fired a bullet into his brain. Lincoln instantly lost all consciousness and did not move. The assassin leaped upon the stage shouting, “Sic semper tyranis”, meaning “So be it always to tyrants,” then rushed across the stage and in the confusion which ensued, mounted a fleet horse and escaped. Tne helpless form of the President was borne across the street to a private house. An examination showed that the wound was mortal. At twenty-two minutes past seven o’clock in the morning of April 15, 1865, President Lincoln, without recovering consciousness, breathed his last. The body of the President was moved to the White House where 50,000 people took a last look at his loved face. It may be truly said that the funeral train extended fifteen hundred miles—from Washington to Springfield, Illinois. Later his remains were placed in an appropriate tomb. And, so it was that our beloved President, Abraham Lincoln, met his death. —Louise Wherry, ’25. THE CHARACTER OF GEORGE WASHINGTON OR many years we have studied the career of Washington, and with every step the greatness of the man has grown upon us. We see in Washington a great soldier who fought a trying war to a successful end; a great statesman who did more than all other men to lay the foundation of a republic which has endured in prosperity for more than a century. We find in him a marvelous judgment which was never at fault, a penetrating vision which beheld the future of America when it was too dim for other eyes; a will of iron and an unequalled strength of patriotic purpose. We see in him, too, a pure high-minded gentleman of dauntless courage and stainless honor, simple and stately of manner, kind and generous of heart. Such he was in truth. The historian and biographer THE SPECTATOR 23 may fail to do him justice, but the instinct of mankind will not fail. The real hero needs not books to give him worshippers. George Washington will alw’ays receive the love and reverence of men, because they see embodied in him the noblest possibilities of humanity. —Tresa Ferrari, ’28. GENERAL ROBERT LEE OBERT Lee wras a son of the Famous Light Horse Harry Lee. He was born on the nineteenth of January, 1807 in Westmoreland County, Virginia, on the Potomac River. He was a brave, strong, manly lad and was always in love with his mother. His father moved from his native State to Washington near the National Capitol. Here Robert w'ent to school. When he was eleven years old his father died. He resolved to hold up his father’s honor, so he went to West Point on the Hudson River. Four years later he graduated as Lieutenant Lee. He joined the Engineering Corps and was stationed on the Atlantic Coast. On the third day of June, thirty-three years later, he was made General of the Army of Virginia. He w'on the Battle of Malvern Hill and second Battle of Bull Run. However, at Gettysburg, Pa., in the following year, he was defeated by General Meade. He kept the Union soldiers out of Richmond for three yeai-s and he fought many other battles. At last he was defeated by General U. S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, on the ninth day of April, 1865. Here the war ended; the South w’as a waste. For five years he wfas President of Washington College. He died on the twelfth day of October, five years after his surrender and he is honored to this day. —Leland Balsiger, ’28. “THE OLD BLOCK HOUSE” wonder how many of the readers of this paper ever knew' that it was unnecessary to go a hundred or more miles to see a place of national interest? How many could find within the walls of Pittsburgh at least one place of interest? How' many ever heard of “The Old Block House”, in Pittsburgh? Suppose the next time you go shopping you look for it. It is a tiny brick building, a five sided construction, such as we see in our history books when viewing pictures of the Revolutionary days. It is about thirty-five feet wide and has an underground passage running to the fort and one out to the river. It is built of brick, a pagoda in shape, having two floors each showing a row of horizontal slits as loopholes. Over the door there is a stone upon which is inscribed: COL. BOUQUET 1764 In 1785 the structure was converted into a dwelling and continued to be so for 109 years, when the building and surrounding sites were deeded to the Daughters of the American Revolution, who restored it to its original state. Upon entering, one steps back two centuries as he steps down the two steps at the entrance. The interior, paved with flag stone, contains a narrow, twisting staircase leading to the second floor and has a vault-like appearance. A few' historical facts would do no harm. Upon this site rested one of the six places that determined the geographical and political institution wre call the United States. In 1754 the French began building forts to show their power west of the Alleghanies. The two most military dominions of that interior wrere at Niagara and Pittsburgh, but strange as it seems, no fort was made at Pittsburgh until the Virginians had made a fort there in 1754. Gov. Dinwiddie of Virginia, decided to investigate these activities and sent George Washington with a letter asking the French to cease operation on English-American soil but the French politely refused. The following year a body of Virginians were defeated and the French then erected Fort Duquesne. In 1758 the French left this fort in the face of their enemies and the English arriving a few days later began Fort Pitt, naming it in honor of the Prime Minister. 24 THE SPECTATOR This new fort was situated on the same strip of land between the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers as was Duquesne. This fort was capable of sheltering a thousand men. A five angled moat surrounded the fort and on its walls were eighteen cannon. Its taking four years to build it, caused it to be considered a great stronghold for the British. In 1763 “Pontiac’s Conspiracy”, the best organized effort ever made by the American Indians to withstand the impressment of the white men was organized. Only because of the second arrival by Colonel Bouquet did this fort stand the five day attack of the enemy. While preparing for further attacks the Colonel ordered the erection of the little blockhouse in order to protect the moat on the northside where the river sometimes runs dry. Our little blockhouse is all that remains today of Fort Pitt and is the only monument of British occupancy in the surrounding country. —Annamay Risher, ’24. I LOVE TO LISTEN TO GRANDPA I love to listen to Grandpa, His tales are always so good; When he tells about himself In the days of his boyhood. Grandpa with the big white whiskers And a beard of snowy grey, Can always tell the best of stories When it comes the close of day. Grandpa sure has lots to tell you And its nothing but the truth, Stories of great adventures About when Grandpa was a youth. Soon my Grandpa will be leaving For a better place than earth, How I will miss those stories That he told me by the hearth. —Grant Marks, ’25. THE SPECTATOR Poetry WHY WORRY Hello thex-e! why what’s wrong Jack, You don’t look the same to me, Your brow is puckered, your hair is gray, Why what’s wrong, buddy? I know what it is; I need not look twice, You’i-e down in your luck, And you make it concise. You’ve had tx-oubles, great and many, Since the time we all came back. From that field of strife and death. Of which e’en now no dread we lack. I heard you hastened home fhat day, To your mother and brothers dear, You found, alas, your aged mother gone. And your brothers too—many a year. t You went to your former employers And they hail no room for you, You went to othex-s, and then anothei-, But everywhere there was nothing to do. Fortunately you got a place, Though for it, you had no intex-est, You seemed to be in the way of all, Your deeds abx-oad, merely a jest. And now—but cheer up, Jack, Why worry, why spend your day With the past, that unfortunate past. When thex-e is the future to pay. You have been gassed in the ti’enches, For which your health is not now the best, But think of all the women and kiddies Whose lives, by your deeds, have been blessed. Think of the terror we have moved from the land Defeated the foe and vanquished the wx-ong We have dealt out justice, sevex-e and hard. But think of the joy we have brought to the throng. Again, I say, why woi-ry? Do away with those lines on your brow, 26 THE SPECTATOR Put light and hope in your eyes, You’ve lots to live for, I vow. I’ve had lots of troubles. I’ve had lots of falls. But why worry, buddy It’s happened after all? Come with me, a friend, I’ll help you through all strife; Without a doubt, without a worry. To mar so short a life. Why worry, life is sweet, The past is gone forever, And with the future we must compete, So why worry? —Juliet Costanzo, ’24. “POPPIES” Flowers with caps of crimson. Besprinkled with shining dew. Cover acres and acres of sloping ground Where a soldier died for you. The wind from the leeward flows softly At the close of the sunny day. And as the scarlet caps bend gently We seem to hear them say. “We mark the place where many a lad Was sacrificed at the Altar of war, Where others were taken from off the field Bleeding and wounded and sore.” “You ask why our color is not of white Why white is for peace you know, While we stand for battle and bloodshed And war that is filled with woe.” “We mark the places where soldiers met And brothers and sweethearts were slain, Where fathers killed sons without even a sigh And with only a tyrant to blame.” “Are we then not rightfully colored Or should our color be white. But who can stand pure and spotless In the midst of dread war and strife?” And then all is still on the calm cool air Their murmurs have ceased all too soon. And only a tender, sweet echo remains From the dead, that the Poppy might bloom. —Eugene Han-old, ’25. THE SPECTATOR 27 WINTER The grass has ceased its growing, And the chilly winds are blowing, And it’s coming time for snowing As we get our warm clothes out. Soon the sleigh bells will be ringing, We can hear the snow birds singing, And the icicles are clinging To the frozen water spout. Where the old time lovers flirted; The lanes are now deserted, And their sparks have been concerted In the parlor by the grate. The hunters deer are stalking, And the tramp is southward walking, And the sewing circle’s talking Puts their victims in a state. But though the air is freezing, And it gives us fits of sneezing, Yet we’re filled with thots most pleasing As we ope the clothes press door. For, ever since September We have viewed it, and remember That the togs of last December, We must wear a season more. —LaRue Frye, ’24. “LEAP YEAR” Girls—Leap Year is really here, Now we can have a chance Just pick him out and then say “dear,” Here’s the end of “Our Romance.” ’Tis time we girls should have a say, But it only comes once in four Look out Boys, keep out of the way, The girls are after you galore. Many a fellow will have to say “Yes,” When he would rather say “No,” But rather than hurt her feelings, I guess, He’d try to survive the blow. Boys, you’ll have to watch your step, During the year 1924, For some sweet girl will get you yet No matter how lucky you’ve been before. Libby, I know will say to Sam, I’m through with schools and books Gee, I can make delicious Baked Ham, And Oh! How good it looks. 28 THE SPECTATOR We’ll try to get you with our looks, And what are you going to do We’ll say we will make the best of cooks, And the next thing—we’ve got you. But Boys, you know it’s all in the game, You can’t blame the girls at all Don’t be a sorehead if we want your name, For if we ask you, we’re sure you’ll fall. You’ll be so stunned when we ask you What kind of a ring do you wish ? Oh! nothing but a diamond. And you’ll buy it, you poor fish. Now girls, don’t be backward, For another time will be too late If you want him just propose, Next “Leap Year’s” not till ’28. Nineteen twenty-four is Ours, And Girls, do your best If he don’t say “Yes” send him flowers, And on your card the word “At Rest.” —Agnes Hammond, ’25. FORLORN AND DESERTED ’Twas the end of the battle The last man had fled, Among the dead bodies He was left there for dead. Forlorn and deserted And lost in the night. He crept to the stream And waited for light. He bathed there his wounds In the blood stained stream. And lay for the night In an unconscious dream. The morning dawned there Bright and clear, And he raised His dying head to hear, A word of Prayer A hand to cheer, A Red Cross Nurse A Friend so near. “Saved at last” They heard him say. And near the stream He, unconscious lay. —Adelaide Coleman, ’2G. THE SPECTATOR 29 HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA Director—Miss Ferrell President ............... Eugene McCormick Secretary ............... Martha Brayshaw Librarian .................. Josephine Ekin The orchestra members are working with a will. The new auditorium serves as a great inspiration. The new orchestra pit will seat twenty players so there will be no lack of room and the pleasure of playing will be greatly increased. The Orchestra’s library has a great variety of pieces, and a number of fairly difficult overtures are among them. There are seventeen in the orchestra this year: Josephine Ekin.......................cornet Edgar Blinker ...................cornet Harold Wagle ................... cornet Ervin Baughman .................. comet Eugene McCormick ............ saxaphone Paul Alcom .................. saxaphone Erni Lassasso ................ clarinet Miles Ashbaugh ............... clarinet Madeline Ferguson .............. violin Virginia Brookhart ............. violin Martha Brayshaw ................ violin Harold Heckman ................. violin John Harley..................... violin Harold McCllean ................ violin Bruce Newell.....................violin Ardell Crow .................... violin Peter Aiello .................... piano LINCOLN BUILDING ORCHESTRA The High School is not the only division of the school that has an orchestra. The Lincoln building has an orchestra of ten pieces. It is organized and has the follow ing officers. Director—Miss Butler 30 THE SPECTATOR President ................. Malcolm George Librarian Alfretta Myers Secretary.................... Carl Ferguson MUSIC MEMORY CONTEST A music memory contest is being given this year in grades 5, 6, 7 and 8. The students participating will be required to become familiar with thirty compositions by standard composers. They must be able to recognize the name of the composition, state name of the composer and his nationality and give a few salient facts concerning composer and composition. Records of the thirty pieces have been provided, and the pupils hear one or more daily. GLEE Director—Miss Ferrell President....................Virginia King Secretary................Beulah Burkhart Librarian............................Hulda Cooper Pianist .................... Pauline Bolar The Glee Club has a membership of eighty-three girls. The girls seem very enthusiastic and show a great deal of spirit. The Glee Club’s library contains a large number and variety of classical selections. The following numbers are taken from selections the girls are now using. Lullaby ......................... Brahms Holy is His Name..................Handel The Dawning Springtime ........... Capua To a Wild Rose .............. MacDowell Chit-Chat ....................... Moffat The Big Brown Bear............Nana-Zucca The teachers report much interest on the part of the pupil. This contest will be of inestimable value to the children in later life as well as now. Have you not many times heard a piece of music which was familiar yet you could not give the name of the piece or composer ? The idea is to familiarize the children with standard compositions, so they will listen intelligently to music they hear, and have the satisfaction of knowing the composition and its source. CLUB A number of new members have added their names to the roll, and it expects to receive a large number next year from the Freshman class. The Glee Club is now practicing one hour a week and already shows a marked improvement compared to the beginning of the year, due largely to the efforts of its able director Miss Ferrell. The club enjoys the new auditorium very much. It provides many new conveniences heretofore denied. The officers of the Glee Club this year are surely filling their offices faithfully. They are always on deck and very dependable. —Madeline Ferguson, ’25. MUSIC In the extensive field of music there are the advantages and disadvantages, which we might class as “classical” and “jazz”. In classical music, such as compositions by Beethoven, Rachmaninoff, Kreisler, Fletcher, Tschtikowsky, Mendelssohn, and those of many others, wTe find a wide range in type and style. Some of the above-mentioned composers have written in a direct simple style, the type which is easily understood by all; while others have written in a flashing style, portraying in tones of harmony the ideals of the heart, easily misunderstood, yet delightful to the listeners. As real poets write for beauty, giving the people the best that they are capable of giving, so also do real composers. Usually classical music is uplifting, as a person of my acquaintance described— “good music thrills me, and at the time, fills me with ambition.” Really, if one understands music, and is appreciative of good compositions, one derives a great deal of pleasure from it, for as it comforts, it excites, and one’ is saddened, one is uplifted. To turn to jazz; one is reminded of a French critic’s criticism of jazz music. This French critic states, and with due reason, that jazz is the reaction of the late war, and typifies a disastrous change to come soon over the people. He defines it as a state of mental frenzy which is resulting in THE SPECTATOR 31 the downfall of a great many people in the present day, but which cannot last. Occasionally we get hold of a fairly good, sentimental piece of jazz. Sounds impossible, doesn’t it? Well, it isn’t, for there are some beautiful compositions— which are spoiled by the words Some people have great ambitions regarding music; then something happens, perhaps not quite to their liking, and they denounce music and everything pertaining to it, much to their later grief. On the other hand, those who really do care for, and appreciate music, usually have no opportunities to enter the musical field. If you have an opportunity to enter the realm of music, take it. You may have talent, but it takes hard work, and lots of it, to be successful. You will never regret the study of music, for music will afford you many pleasant hours, educational hours, in fact, perhaps hours that you would spend in doing something not quite so profitable. In this brief composition, I have tried to show you of what classical and jazz music is composed, but, if I say nothing else, remember always, that opportunity comes only a few times, and in music, perhaps only once, so, if such an opportunity is offered you, take it, and do your best with it. —Virginia Brookhart, ’24. THE LIFE OF FRANCIS SCOTT KEY Francis Scott Key was born in Fredrick county, Maryland, and was educated at Saint John’s College in Annapolis. Beginning the practice of law in Fredrick in 1801, he rose to the position of District Attorney of the District of Columbia. He wrote a number of poems and in 1857 they were collected and published. He also was the author of our national song “The Star Spangled Banner.” After the burning of Washington, D. C., by the British soldiers, in August, 1814, Dr. William Beaues of Upper Marlborough, Maryland, threw three British refugees into jail, and for this he was arrested by an English regiment and taken as a captive aboard a warship in Chesapeake Bay. John S. Skinner of Washington, and Key, then an attorney in the District of Columbia, were granted permission by Secretary of State, James Monroe, to intercede for the doctor, and these two boarded the vessel just as it was preparing to bombard Fort McHenry, the chief protection of Baltimore. The British soldiers agreed to release Beaues, but refused to allow the two Americans to leave the vessel until after the battle, lest they should tell the plans to the patriots on land. On Tuesday, September 13, 1814 the bombardment began, continuing that day and almost all night. To Key and his companions it seemed impossible that the fort could survive the attack, as its guns were small and its defenders were few. All night they walked the deck in anguish, and even when dawn came could not discover the outcome because of haze and smoke. Suddenly, at seven o’clock, a rift in the mist showed for a moment the flag gleaming over the walls. Thrilled by the sight of the American flag still floating over the fort Key wrote a greater part of a poem on the back of an unfinished letter and completed it that night in a Baltimore hotel. The next morning the poem was printed on hand bills and during that day Key’s brother-in-law suggested that it be set to an old England drinking tune, “Anacreon in Heaven”, which was already familiar to Americans as the air for a political song entitled “Adams and Liberty.” A few days later it was first sung by Fermand Durang, an actor, at Baltimore. The composition immediately became popular, was played at the Battle of New Orleans, and is now played each evening at flag lowering in every American fort and garrison and on every American battleship throughout the world. The United States government keeps a flag floating always over Key’s grave at Fredrick, Maryland, while on the other side of the continent a great statue in memory of him, the gift of James Lick, looks out upon the Pacific from Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. On September 13, 1914, the city of Baltimore celebrated with an appropriate program the hundredth anniversary of the writing of this National Song. —Mary Kuhns, ’24. 32 THE SPECTATOR A PATRIOTIC SONG REVIEW Five Patriotic Songs of America are: “America”, “Hail Columbia”, “Battle Hymn of Republic”, “Dixie”, and “Marching Through Georgia”. “America” was written in February 1832, by Samuel Francis Smith, a graduate of Harvard College. The young man was a lover of music. When twenty-three years old, he was given a collection of songs in which the British National Anthem was included. He was so impressed by the tune and rhythm, he set to work to compose words to it that would be suitable for his owm country. The result was “My Country, ’Tis of Thee” and no other hymn has taken its place. Smith lived to be eighty-seven and never wrote another hymn or song to equal the success of “America”. It is said it only took him a half hour to make the words for his wonderful song. William Steffe is said to have composed the music. “Hail Columbia” was written for the stage. It was first sung at an Actor’s Benefit in Philadelphia in 1798. The actor, Gilbert Fox, for whom the benefit was given, anxious to have the occasion a success, asked a friend, a young lawyer named Joseph Hopkinson, to write a patriotic song. Mr. Hopkinson wrote the poem and set it to the tune of the President’s March. The tune is said to have been composed by a Philadelphia musician of German descent named Roth. It was received with great favor, the big audience joining in the singing. People flocked to hear it. This popular melody had a helpful influence on public affairs. There was, at the time, some danger that the United States might interfere in difficulties then increasing between France and England, “Hail Columbia”, awakened home pride and patriotism and a feeling that we had problems enough of our own country without interfering with those of other nations. Philadelphia was then our National Capitol and hearing of the new song, President Adams and his entire Cabinet went to the theatre to hear it. “Battle Hymn of the Republic” was written by Julia Ward Howe. She was the author of this great war song. Julia was born in New York in 1819, and was married to Dr. S. C. Howe in 1843. In December 1861, Dr. and Mrs. Howe, with a party of friends, paid a visit to Washington. One day the party drove several miles from the city to see a review of the Federal soldiers. An attack by the Confederates caused much excitement, and delayed their return. Finally they started back to Washington under an escort of soldiers, and to while the time away, they sang war songs, among others, “John Brown”. Waking in the gray dawn of the following morning Mrs. Howe found herself weaving together words to the music she had sung the day before. Fearing she might forget the lines if she slept again she arose, and wrote down the verses of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic. The poem was first published in the Atlantic Monthly for February 1862. The verses were published without the author’s name, and she received but five dollars for them. Of this great hymn a recent writer says, “Unlike many of the songs of the Civil war, it contains nothing sectional, nothing personal, nothing of a temporary character. We feel the beauty of the character. We feel the beauty of the lines and their aspiration after freedom, even in the time of storm and stress their full meaning shines out. Written with intense feeling they seem to burn and glow when our own emotions are aroused.” “Dixie”, the most popular of the songs of the South, was written by Daniel D. Emmett of Ohio. In 1859 Mr. Emmett was a member of “Bryant’s Minstrels” then playing in New York. On Saturday evening he was asked by Mr. Bryant to furnish a new song to be used in the performances the following week. On Monday morning Mr. Emmett took to the rehearsal the words and music of “Dixie”. The song became a favorite all over the land. In 1860 an entertainment was given in New Orleans. The leader had some difficulty in selecting a march for his chorus. After trying several he decided upon “Dixie . It was taken up by the people, sung upon the streets and soon carried to the battlefields, where it became the great inspirational song of the Southern army. Many different words were written to the tune. Those by Albert Pike of Arkansas were much used and are, perhaps, the most worthy of mention. “Marching Through Georgia”; this song THE SPECTATOR 33 commemorates the famous march of Sherman and his army from Atlanta to the sea. Both words and music were written by Henry C. Work, a printer who lived in Chicago. When Mr. Work was nine years old, his father was sentenced to prison for twelve years because he aided some fugi- tive slaves to escape from their masters. The young man had vivid recollections of his father’s sufferings and his loyalty to the Union was voiced in a number of patriotic songs, the most noted of which is “Marching Through Georgia.” This song was one of the greatest war songs. —Ruth Hoffman, ’24. Skating Skating is a great exercise, especially for those who can’t skate. Some people do it on their feet, but most of them skate on their noses, on the backs of their necks, on their Adams apple, on their adnoids and on various other parts of the anatomy, more or less tender— usually more. There is nothing that will harden, or soften you for that matter, like skating, unless it is slipping on a thousand banana peelings, or being thrown down a few' hundred flights of stairs. After you have learned to skate, nothing can harm you—nothing. Some people leam to skate without breaking more than a half or their available bones, while others are tenderly swept off the ice and carried home in installments to their bei'eaved families. Still others don’t believe signs that say, “Thin Ice—Danger”, and find themselves convinced w'hen it is too late for anything, except obsequies. They are the lucky ones. A crash, a “gulp”, or perhaps two “gulps”, and then ho! for the crown and the harp and flying around for all eternity in a long white nightgown. Skating has done much toward modifying sartorial styles. For instance, the chic skating costume for the young man show's the padding in the shoulders eliminated in favor of padding elsewhere. What could be fairer? The most sensible costume of all however, would be a feather bed—or better, two, one fore and the other aft. Skating is a healthful exercise. In fact only those who are incurably healthy can stand it. Like porch climbing and shooting mountain lions, it takes you out into the open air, and is heartily indorsed by the leading bonesetters, crutch manufacturers and casket trimmer’s guild. —Selected. 34 THE SPECTATOR N e ver-to-Be-F orgotten Words “Since the close of the last Congress the nation has lost President Harding. The world knew his kindness and his character. He has left his mark upon history. He has made justice more certain and peace more secure. The surpassing tribute paid to his memory as he was borne across the continent to rest at last at home revealed the place he held in the hearts of the American people. But this is not the occasion for extended reference to the man or his work. In this presence, among those who knew and loved him, that is unnecessary. But we who were associated with him could not resume together the functions of our office without pausing for a moment, and in his memory reconsecrating ourselves to the service of our country. He is gone. We remain. It is our day, under the inspiration of his example, to take up the burdens which he was permitted to lay down, and to develop and support the wise principles of government which he represented.” Pres. Coolidge’s Tribute to Our Late Pres. Harding in His Message to Congi-ess. “Fourscore and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that the nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do his. But in a larger sense we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember, what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us, the living, rather to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus so far nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us,—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion,—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain,— that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom,—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” —Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. “The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the trusted foundation of political liberty.” “But the right is more precious than peace, and we shall fight for the things which we have always carried nearest our hearts,—for democracy, for the right of those who submit to authority to have a voice in their own government, for the rights and liberties of small nations, for a universal dominion of right by such a concert of free peoples as shall bring peace and safety to all nations and make the world itself at last free.’ Extracts from Ex-President Wilson’s War Message. “Youngster, let that show you what it is to be without a family, without a home, and without a country. And if you are ever tempted to say a word or to do a thing that shall put a bar between you and your family, your home, and your country, pray God in his mercy to take you that instant home to His own heaven. Stick by your family, boy; forget you have a self, while you do everything for them. Think of your home, boy; write and send, and talk about it. Let it be nearer and nearer to your thought, the farther you have to tra- THE SPECTATOR 35 vel from it; and rush back to it, when you are free, and for that flag, never dream a dream but of serving her as she bids you, though the service carry you through a thousand hells. No matter what happens to you, no matter who flatters you or who abuses you, never look at another flag, never let a night pass but you pray God to bless that flag. Remember, boy, that behind all these men you have to do with, behind officers, a government, and people even, there is the Country herself, your Country, and that you belong to her as you belong to your own mother. Stand by Her, boy, as you would stand by your mother, if those devils there had got hold of her today.” —Phillip Nolan’s advice to a young man as found in E. E. Hale’s “The Man Without a Country.” “.........Citizens by birth, or choice, of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections. The name of American: which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism, more than any appellation derived from local discriminations: With slight shades of difference, you have the same religion, manners, habits and political pi-inciples. You have, in a common cause, fought and triumphed together; the independence and liberty you possess are the work of joint counsels and joint efforts, of common danger, sufferings and successes........ “Observe good faith and justice toward all nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and morality enjoin this conduct: and can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it ? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened and, at no distant period, a great nation to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence.” . . . —Washington’s Farewell Address. “Ladies and Gentlemen: I have no speech to make to you, and not time to speak in, I appear before you that I may see you, and that you may see me; and I am walling to admit, that so far as the ladies are concerned, I have the best of the bargain, though I wish it to be understood that I do not make the same acknowledgment concerning the men.’ Lincoln’s Shortest Speech, Given at Utica, New' York, Feb. 18, 1861. “You are undertaking a great duty. The heart of the whole country is w'ith you. Everything that you do will be w'atched w'ith the deepest interest and w'ith the deepest solicitude not only by those who are near and dear to you, but by the whole nation besides. “For this great war draws us all together, makes us all comrades and brothers as all true Americans felt themselves to be when we first made good your national independence. “The eye of the w'hole world will be upon you, because you are in some special sense the soldiers of freedom. Let it be our pride, therefore, to show all good men, everywhere, not only w'hat good soldiers you are, but also what good men you are, keeping yourselves fit and sti'aight in everything and pure and clean through and through. “Let us all for ourselves set a standard so high that it will be a glory to live up to it, and then let us live up to it and add a new laurel to the crown of America. “My affection and confidence goes with you in every battle and every test. God keep and guide you.” —Wilson’s Farewell Message to American Soldiers. “We are met today to pay the impersonal tribute. The name of him whose body lies before us took flight with his imperishable soul. We knowr not when he came, but only that his death marks him with the everlasting glory of an American dying for his country.” “We do not know the eminence of his birth, but we do know the glory of his death. He died for his country, and greater devotion hath no man than this. He died unquestioning, uncomplaining, with faith in his heart and hope on his lips, that his country should triumph and its civilization survive. As a typical soldier of this representative democracy he fought and died, believing in the indisputable justice of his country’s, conscious of the world’s upheaval, appraising the magnitude of a war the 36 THE SPECTATOR like of which had never horrified humanity before, perhaps he believed his to be a service destined to change the tide of human affair. “The American soldier went forth to battle with no hatred for any people in the world, but hating the war and hating the purpose of every war for conquest. He cherished our national rights and abhored the threat of armed domination; and in the maelstrom of destruction and suffering and death he fired his shot for the liberation of the captive conscience of the world. In advancing toward his objective was somewhere a thought of a world awakened, and we are here to testify undying gratitude and reverence for that thought of a wider nation.” —Extracts taken from Our Late President Harding’s Address at the Burial of the Unknown Soldier. —Selected by Winona Love, ’24. A Skakespearean Romance Who were the lovers? (Romeo and Juliet). What was their courtship like? (Midsummer’s Night’s Dream). What was her answer to his proposal? (As You Like It). At what time of the month were they married? (Twelfth Night). Of whom did they buy the ring? (Merchant of Venice). Who were the best man and the maid of honor? (Antony and Cleopatra). Who were the ushers? (Two Gentlemen of Verona). Who gave the reception ? (Merry Wives of Windsor). In what kind of a place did they live? (Hamlet). What was her disposition like? (The Tempest). What was his chief occupation after marriage? (Taming The Shrew). What caused their first quarrel? (Much Ado About Nothing). What did their courtship prove to be? (Love’s Labor Lost). What did their married life resemble? (A Comedy of Errors). What did they give each other? (Measure for Measure). What did their friends say? (All’s Well That Ends Well). —Selected. THE SPECTATOR 37 a As the old saying goes, good things come all at once, and I think we students can all agree that our vacations do anyway. So it seems, and after spending several weeks enjoying Christmas and beginning our new year in the right way, we are hack in school and are determined td go through with our mid-exams, and establish for ourselves a new record. As yet we have not had the benefit of our new buildings, but the time is fast approaching and we are looking forward to it with pleasure. Our season of football was not quite so successful as we might have wished it, due partly to our bad luck, which) seemed to follow us through the season. Several of our best men were hurt in the beginning of the season and were unable to play, during the rest of the entire season. But we can always look forward to next year as a better year. In some instances our team will be stronger and in other cases it will not be so strong, as next year we lose some of our main standbys as Adams, Secrist, Anderson, Hill and many other good fellows but we must always be hopeful and we know the second team has gradually been growing stronger under the efforts of Coach Money. We at least yet carry our honors high as far as Apollo is concerned. Let us congratulate our team on their wonderful work that Thanksgiving day. The Seniors have long since donned their conspicuous caps. What could be more pleasing to the eye, than an attractive Senior in his no less attractive cap ? The Seniors of V. H. S. and class of ’24 can pat themselves on the back that they will be set down on a Red Letter Day in the history of our school. They will have the honor of being the first class, graduated from our new auditorium. Need they not be proud? The cheering this year seemed much of an improvement over previous years. Can it be the Freshman and their “Pep”? or have we all taken a decided turn for the better. Let everyone turn out for basketball. It is an interesting game, and cheering is just as necessary here as on the football field. Let us show our spirit, students and or appreciation of the new addition to our school, by having the most successful season of basketball yet. 38 THE SPECTATOR SENIOR NOTES Where, oh where, are the jolly Juniors? Safe now in the Senior Class, They are still jolly, more jolly than ever, Safe now in the Senior Class. Thus there is a verse that can be rightly applied to this class of ’24, for, regardless of the past, whether in reference to the cold, snappy days, cramming for semester examinations or any other difficulty a student may encounter, they are still as cheerful as in their Jolly Junior days. The class registers sixty-five members, all of whom are destined for a great career. There are among them, mathematicians, scientists, mechanics, humorists, above all, football stars, and then, milliners, dressmakers, secretaries, etc. Of course they are all as yet unknown to the world but they are merely waiting for their chance in a few years to prove themselves. However, at present, great advance has been made in all subjects and after a turbulent holiday season all have settled to work. Onf Dec. 21, 1923 very interesting Christmas px-ogi'ams consisting of the following numbers were held by the two English classes: “Christmas in Other Lands”, “A Christmas Recitation,” “Christmas Spirit,” “Holly and Mistletoe,” “A Christmas Story,” “The Legend of the Wisemen,” and ended by another “Christmas Recitation.” They proved to be the best of all progx-ams given the first semester, and were enjoyed by all. Moreover, a series of debates are scheduled for the second semester, which, with the experience the students have already received in that line, axe sure to be exceptionally good and successful. The work of the commercial classes is in full swing and pxegxessing vexy well. Many commeieial students have xeceived several cex tificates, card cases and pins for speed in typewriting tests, offered by type-writing associations. The Seniors are doing their utmost to make a success of their last year and hope to end the term with the best spent winter and the happiest Spring of all their years in the V. H. S. SENIOR GOSSIP What would happen to the class of ’24 individually and collectively If:— Sidney Davis would stop humming in Studv Hall. Vii-ginia King would stop chewing gum. Betty Smith stopped laughing. Doyle Elder refrained from speaking to a girl for a whole day. Joseph Lazier did not know his mathematics. Deb Secrist spelled cox-rectly at Miss Steele’s dictation. Alice Aiken would be serious in French class. And if:— All senior's made above 90% in deportment. Regax-dless of what might happen to the class after the above changes, nevertheless, 1 at present, it seems to be tripping fast, a fact proven by Nelson Carnahan’s narrow escape from injury when he tripped on the stairs while going to Chemistry Class, and by Helen Riggle’s embarrassing moment at the instant she almost fell to the floor pulling a few classmates with her, having tripped on the stairs in her hurry to get to her reporting room. Oh, Seniors! Where hast that dignity of thine fled! Did you ever know that the boys in Physics class were cute? Ask Winona Love— she knows. And say, several girls have come back from the holiday vacation wearing diamond solitaires, causing a bit of chattering. What’s up girls? Leap Year—I’ll wager! —Juliet Costanzo. TH E SPECTATOR 39 JUNIOR CLASS NOTES Once more the Juniors have settled down to work after a number of great trials and tribulations. Christmas Holidays are past— final exams have been reached—and we find ourselves much nearer the long sought for goal. The Junior Class boasts a few Honor Roll students. Catherine Gregg Peter Ross Naomi Black Pauline Freshwater The English III Classes have been very busy recently, and are learning many interesting facts about such men as Shakespeare, Marlowe and Jonson. They have also had the pleasure of entertaining. On the twenty-first of December each Class gave an excellent program. The programs arranged were as follows: SOPHOMORE We have again resumed our work at the White Elephant, after the shop early rushing season, resolved to try to do better work this semester than the foregoing one. The finals were given and taken the last week of January. The results of some were enough to remove all Christmas cheer and permit anyone to break their New Year’s Resolutions. Basketball season opened by the Vander- Christmas in Other Lands—Stanley Spiher, Wm. Fraser, Richard Johnson, Sara Nor-burg Recitation—Madelaine Ferguson, Olive Hunger, John Grimm, Ruth Hoffman A Christmas Story—Martha Elwood, Grant Marks, Glenn Prescott, Naomi Black The Holly and the Mistletoe—Daisy Miller, Earl Stoops, Rolfe Hammer, Russel Myers. Recitations—Katherine Owens, Richard Floyd, Louise Shepler, Pauline Freshwater Legend of the Wise Men —Mildred Roeper, Estella Bromwich, Ernest Cravener, Mae Painter The Christmas Spirit—Herbert Brown. Clair Shirley, Ralph Blakely, Caroline Pugliese. The class which met at two P. M. was favored by a reading by Leila George. CLASS NOTES grift-Apollo game at Apollo, January 8. The first game played in our new gymnasium was with Greensburg, January 11. The Sophomore class has quite a few athletes among whom are Ralph Hammer and Paul Lash. The girls’ basketball team was organized January 10. The Sophomore class has not as yet organized, but we are looking forward to the time when we may follow the examples set before us by our higher classmen. SOPHOMORE CLASS CHATTER We wonder:— If Paul Lash still thinks a paralellogram is a crooked square. If Robert McClure still thinks that heads are for hair to grow on. If Joseph Vellano still has Diviciacus halfway up a tree. How Kenneth Smith attained so much knowledge as to know' how to speak Spanish two w'ays, as the rest of us only know one, and it’s usually the wrong one. FRESHMAN NOTES Here we are again just after the midterm “Finals.” Most of the Freshmen who did pass all subjects are continuing orj the same route every day. They pass you now with smiles on their faces as those dreadful “Finals” are over. We are quite well advanced in all of our subjects. In English we are reading, “As 40 THE SPECTATOR You Like It” by Shakespeare, which we find very interesting. We can work all kinds of questions in Algebra. Sometimes General Science is rather hard but with Miss Bain’s help we get along fine. We have reached our hardest translations in Latin, at least we hope they will soon get easier. The students of Bookkeeping and Ancient History are very fond of their subjects, The girls have started to play Basketball and it seems to be the main topic of conversation among most of them. Valgean Orr. The Spectator Staff wishes to thank Mr. Byerly and the Manual Training boys for the useful and neatly made “Joke Box.” Now boys and girls, come along with the jokes! Let us show Mr. Byerly that his gift helps us to improve our “joke” department. Be What You Is Don’t be what you ain’t Jis’ be what you is If you is not what you am, Then you ain’t what you is. If you jis’ a little tadpole, Don’t try to be a frog. If you jis’ the tail. Don’t try to wag the dog. You can always pass the plate, If you can’t exhort and preach. If you jis ’a little pebble, Don’t try to be the beach. Don’t be what you ain’t, Jis’ be what you is, For the man who plays it square Is a goin’ to get “his”. —Selected. THE SPECTATOR 41 DRESS “Then” . IT the time America was settled, rich dress was almost universal in Europe among persons of any wealth or station. The dress of the plain people also, such as yoemen and small fanners and even peasants was good and ample clothing. Materials were strong and honestly made. Clothing was sewed by hand and lasted long. The fashions did not change from year to year and the rich and stout clothes of one generation were bequeathed by will and worn by a second and even a third generation. In England, extravagance in dress in court circles and grotesqueness in dress among all educated folk had become abhorrent to that class of persons who were called Puritans; and as an expression of their dislike they wore plainer garments and cut their hair and soon were called Roundheads. The Massachusetts settlers who were Puritans determined to discourage extravagance in dress and attempted to control fashions. Soon in the larger cities among wealthy folk, a much more elaborate and varied style of dress became fashionable. The dress of little girls in wealthy families wa certainly almost as formal and elegant as the dress 42 TH E SPECTATOR of their mothers and it was a very hampering and stiff dress. They wore vast hoop skirts, heavy stays and high heeled shoes. Their complexions were objects of special care; they wore masks of cloth or velvet to protect them from the tanning of the sun and long armed gloves. Little Dolly Payne who afterwards became the wife of President Madison, went to school wearing a white linen mask to keep every ray of sunshine from her complexion; a sunbonnet sewed on her head every morning by her careful mother and long gloves covering her hands and arms. Our present love of outdoor life, of athletic sports and our indifference to being sunburned would make such painstaking vanity tiresome. and “Now” Each of us has a standard by which one judges standard beauty and harmony of the clothing one wears. Whether or not our standard measures up to an artistic ideal, depends upon our interest in, or indifference to, beauty in dress, upon our appreciation of these things which make for harmony in clothing—color, form, line and texture or upon our ignorance of the principles of art as applied to clothing. We should not think of our clothing merely as a covering for the body, to be constructed by some passing whim of fashion but study rather to suit the covering to the form beneath and that not alone in line but in color and textures as well. Recall for a moment some of the impressions received from looking at pictures. Have you ever turned away from one with a sense of discord and confusion and from another with a feeling of harmony and rest. There is a story told in every gown that a woman wears. Some are beautiful; some are dreams come true; some are poems; others are nightmares. There are tragedies and comedies presented in the things that people put on. Do you not know that in georgette and chiffon there is allure; in velvet there is dignity; in tulle grace; in satin, charm; in lace, coquettry, sometimes delicate, sometimes sophisticated; in metal cloth there is ostentation; in metals and beautiful furs, splendor; linen suggests efficiency and gingham is practical; in organdy you will always find youth; in serges, service; and in broadcloth, a gentlewoman. Is your evening gown for instance, a beautiful ravishing thing of gold metal cloth with long slender lines, very extreme in style? Well then to translate it, let us take first the color gold, deep gold. What does it suggest but riches, luxuriousness, splendor? Is it not so? Second there is the line, long-straight-tube-like. This means sophistication and must be expressed by an upright graceful carriage, not slouchful nor yet stiff but both poised and flexible. You must have the appearance of “going with” and being part of “your lovely gown”. We follow the fashions blindly for fear we will not look like everybody else. To be merely fashionable is to be of the thousands; to wear artistic and individual costumes is to be well dressed. Fashion is also governed by traditions which determine many styles and we submit to them. THE SPECTATOR 43 BASKET BALL We should be pleased with the splendid work of our team so far this year. They have played hard and well and have exhibited plenty of pep, due to the splendid coaching of Mr. Money. Those candidates awarded blue suits were: Diana Lash Chuck Mitchell Bill Paul Deb Secrist Chuck Anderson Bernard Kirklewski Rolfe Hammer Gene McCoy Those awarded white suits are: George Yakalwanix Bob Campbell Happy McCormick Lud Wineman Dave Flude Andy McCombs Bill Frazer But due to the misfortune of breaking training rules, several members - of both teams have had their suits taken. V. H. S. WINS OPENER 27-23 Tuesday evening, January 8th, Vander-grift defeated their old time rival, Apollo, on the Apollo floor to the score of 27-23. It was the opening game of the season and the auditorium was packed to capacity by an eager crowd, anxious to see how these antagonists would fare the first League game. The score was close all through the game, Vandergrift leading until in the third quarter when the score was 21-21. Hammer broke the tie by a long shot for a field goal. Then Kirklewski, who was not very closely guarded, received some passes near his own goal and added several more field goals to the score. The whole blue and white played a bang-up game while Shaef- fer starred for Apollo. V andergrift—27 Apollo—21 Kirklewski F. Dentzel Hammer F. Gumbert Mitchell C. Shaeffer Lash G. Blumenstein Secrist G. Jackson After the game the entire crowd was en- 44 THE SPECTATOR tertained at a dance in the Tamaqua Club rooms of Apollo. A fine time was enjoyed by all who stayed for it. V. H. S.—15 G. H. S.—21 On Friday evening, January 11, the team representing Greensburg Hi came to Van-dergrift to help open up the new gym. Vandergrift had no advantage because of playing on the home floor, because the visitors were as much accustmed to the new floor as the Blue and White boys. The close guarding of both teams featured throughout until the final quarter when Ross, the visitor’s star foi-ward made 5 baskets from past the center of the floor. The first quarter ended 4-0 in favor of the home kids. The half found them still in the lead 7-6. At the three quarters however, the visitors were leading 11-10. Then in the last quarter, Ross cut loose and the game ended 21-15 with Greensbui'g playing for time. CHEERS Our cheers are improving—getting peppier every day! Let’s keep it up. Mi-. Kurtz has already permitted one pi-actice in the new gym. and it was the best ever. The good old gym. seems to be putting new life into the once dead cheers. Let’s all work together and knock ’em cold with enthusiasm. This be our toast, “To the glory of our team and the pi-ide of our school!” —“Happy” McCoi-mick, Cheer Leadei-. V. H. S. WINS 32-14 On Tuesday evening, January 15, V. H. S. played Avonmoi-e Yankees in the new gym. The first half was very slow and unintreesting, V. H. S. leading by only a 12-7 score. But the second half was very much livelier; both teams were playing hard but eai-ly in the third quai-ter, Hammer got started, and shot six sti-aight field goals most difficult shots. The Blue and White boys had it pietty much their own way-after that and the final score found them on the long end of a 32-14 score. GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Thursday evening, January 10, about one hundred girls from the classes met in S. H. to discuss Girls’ Basketball. They elected Vii-ginia Brookhai-t as their manager. On Thursday evening, January 17, the Seniors and Juniors met for practice in the new gym; this was the beginning. So far our manager has no games scheduled and it will take a lot of practice on the part of the girls themselves before they will be able to play out of town teams. From all appeai-ances one might predict a successful season. Mr. Money is the coach. Wonder what made Mi Money and Prof. Kuitz smile so broadly as they watched the gii-ls at pi-actice that first night? V. H. S. DEFEATS BLAIRSVILLE On Friday evening, Januai-y 18th, Blairs-ville High came to Vandergrift and were defeated by the score of 23-15. Blairsville were leading 12-8 at the end of the half but Vandei-grift came back strong in the third quai-ter and took the lead as a result of six field goals in quick succession by Hammer. Thereafter Vandergrift was never in danger. V. H. S.—23 FORD CITY—21 The twenty-second of Januax-y bi-ought foi-th our second league game. The highly touted Ford City High team came to Vandei-grift, practically sui-e of a victory but when the end of the game came the score was tied at 21 all. At the beginning of the 5 minutes extra period Anderson scored a long field goal from passed the center of the floor which put Vandergrift in the lead 23-21. The score i-emained unchanged from then on as Ford City was unable to get possession of the ball, and the Blue and White boys wei-e content at holding their two point lead. BLUE WHITE LOSE AT KITTANNING On Friday evening, January 25, V. H. S. journeyed to Kittanning where they were defeated by the score of 38-16. Coach Money was very disgusted over the showing of his team, but you have to be off now and then, and instead of discoui-aging the boys, the defeat tended to arouse them and to make them work that much harder for the games to come. THE SPECTATOR 45 CARNEGIE TECHNICAL SCHOOLS, PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA How to Choose Your College By R. S. Clark WO serious problems confront nearly every high school student. Both questions are more or less related; and at least one of them must be solved by the time he has reached his high school diploma. The first, and perhaps, the most important problem of the two, and that which may or may not be anwered before high school days are over, is “what is to be my work or profession?” The answer to this question must, of course, come from the student himself. What his future work in the world will be must be determined by his personal inclinations and desires. It is not absolutely necessary, of course, to make the choice of a life’s work while in high school days. Several years of college life may be spent profitably before making the final decision; but a student who delays in determining the nature of his future occupation is skating upon thin ice. Compared to the undecided student, is the young man or young woman who knows before entering college what he or she wants to do in the world, and who employs the time spent in college in more thoroughly preparing for the future. Such young people who follow a straight line toward their goals are naturally in a distinctly advantageous position when they leave their colleges as graduates. The second problem, of only slightly less importance, is “which college shall I attend?” This question obviously must be made at some time near his graduation day in high school. A superseding question “shall I, or shall I not, attend any college?” might be interjected and remarked upon here; but it is inconceivable in these enlightened days if such a question is ever asked of himself by a student. It is unnecessary now to point out to any one the advantages of a college education. It has been proved over and over again that the young man or woman with a college education holds a very pronounced advantage over the noncollege man or woman in the work of the world. In points of earning power and cultural advantages, a college now has no opponents. Rather, the question “shall I or shall I not, attend college?” is now converted to the question, “may I, or may I not, attend college?” The future engineer, whatever the branch of engineering in which he intends to specialize, should make a thorough investigation and select the best engineering school that is available. The student-artist should attempt to find an institution that it superior not only in its art courses, but is located in such a community where there is opportunity for the development of artistic talent. The young woman, if ambitious to study pure science, domestic science, art, or business, must decide which institution can give her the best technical training, and whether or not it is co-educa-tional. Young men and women who aspire for professions as teachers must find the college where they can get the best of technical training and where preparation for the teaching profession receives special consideration. Another important consideration that should influence the choice of a college is of environment. Which is best—the smalltown college, or the city college? Here again, the answer depends upon the student’s aspirations. If he has limited financial resources for the obtaining of his education, the student should choose the city college because of the increased opportunities for outside work found in a large community. If his education is to be technical, again the college situated in a 46 THE SPECTATOR city can offer him better advantages because of its contact with the industries of the city. The engineering student in a city college has the unusual opportunity of supplementing his class room, shop, and laboratory work in college by visiting, and even working in the industries of the city. The student artist in a large community is given a larger sphere in which to develop. The woman student has unlimited opportunities in a large community for the practical application of her studies. Outstanding among the colleges in this country, Carnegie Institute of Technology has had a remarkable growth as an educational institution. Located in Pittsburgh, the center of a district that is rich in opportunities for the supplementary education of college students, Carnegie Tech offers an unusual training. Its course in engineering, industry, art, teacher-training, and for women cover a wide scope of contacts touching nearly every branch of industry and the arts. Some idea of the recognition that Carnegie Tech now enjoys may be gathered from the information that 26 foreign countries and forty-one states in addition to Alaska and the District of Columbia are represented among the 4500 students enrolled this year. One of the contributing factors toward the remarkable expansion of this institution has been the democratic atmosphere ever-prevailing in the student life. Because of the liberal endowment established by Andrew Carnegie, the Institute has exercised its opportunity to establish tuition fees at a lower cost than is usually found in institutions of similar standing. In addition to its efforts to help in keeping a student’s expense account at rock-bottom through lower fees and living costs, the Institute makes every effort to help students desiring part-time employment. A Student Placement Bureau is maintained by the Alumni Association and the Institute, through means of which both men and women students are enabled to secure part-time employment. Many Pittsburgh employers now rely entirely upon the bureau for their employment needs. Carnegie Institute of Technology consists of four main colleges—the College of Engineering, the College of Industries, the College of Fine Arts, and the Margaret Morrison Carnegie College. The College of Engineering offers four year courses leading to the Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical, Civil, Commercial, Electrical, Mechanical, Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, Chemistry, and Physics. A two-years non-degree course is also offered in Coal Mining. The College of Industries gives four-year courses leading to the Bachelor of Science Degree in Building Construction, Electrical Equipment and Construction, Sheet Metal Construction, Heating, Venti-latingand Sanitary Engineering, Machinery Production, Printing and Publishing, and Industrial Education. Short courses of 1 or 2 years are offered in Automobile Maintenance and Operation, Building Trades Drawing, Carpentry, Electric Equipment, Forging, Foundry, Heating and Ventilating, Machine Work, Masonry and Concrete, Mechanical Drafting, Pattermaking, Plumbing, Printing, Sheet Metal and Patterndrafting, and Structural Steel Drawing. In the College of Fine Arts, a five-year course leading to the Bachelor of Science Degree is offered in Architecture. A two-year course, with no degree offered, is also given in Architecture. Four-year courses leading to the degree of Bachelor of Arts are offered in: Painting, Illustration, Applied Art, Music, Drama, and Sculpture. The Margaret Morrison Carnegie College for Women offers major work in seven fields, as follows: General Science, House- hold Economics, Costume Economics, Secretarial Studies, (Regular Course), Secretarial Studies, (English Minor,) Social Work, and Libi-ary Work. All of these courses are of four years and lead to the degree of Bachelor of Science. Carnegie Tech is non-sectarian. Voluntary Chapel Services are conducted once a week; and it is significant, that although attendance is entirely voluntary upon the part of the students, the services are usually largely attended. Life is pleasant and inspiring among the students. The social activities on the campus are regulated almost entirely by a Student Council, the governing body selected among the students of all four colleges. Separate dormitories for both the men and women students are supervised by the Institute authorities, and in addition to these, a large number of THE SPECTATOR 47 flourishing fraternities own their own chapter homes and house a large number of the students. The students who enroll in September of 1924 will have the advantage of being the first regular users of the new $400,000 gymnasium, scheduled for completion in the spring of 1924. The new gym will be unique in many of its features. It will have the largest swimming pool in Pittsburgh, and separate gymnasiums will be used by the men and the women students. With the completion of the gymnasium building, Carnegie Tech will have taken its place among the progressive educational institutions of the country that recognize the need of physical training and recreation as a factor in a college education. PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE FOR WOMEN PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA ' . l E were looking through an old yy prospectus of our college the other day, and when we say “old” we mean dating back to about 1910. In it we came across the statement that “nine-tenths of our girls eventually marry and establish homes of refinement and culture” or words to that effect. This information, interesting as it may be to the public, is no longer found in any Pennsylvania College literature, not because it has ceased to be true, but because that is not our avowed purpose in going to college today. It used to be true that women did little else besides establish homes and maintain culture and refinement in them, but the tender grace of those days can never come back. They are gone, and women now claim that they are the equals of men. However, institutions of higher education have been conferring degrees on men for centuries, and fitting them for the more responsible positions in life, and if women want to make good their boast, it is evi- dent that they must prove themselves equal to their responsibilities. The first step in this direction is education, and education as thorough and deep as men have had. Pennsylvania College for Women has been educating women since 1876. In 1910, the majority of the graduates of the college were marrying and rocking the cradle— intelligently; only one small tenth of them were out “in the world” being useful to humanity in other ways. We have no statistics to show how many were doing both. The number of applications has been increasing each year, so that now we have as many girls as the buildings will comfortably hold but we are promising ourselves more room in the near future. There is room now, however, for work and play, for friendships and study, for tennis, basketball, hockey, lectures, concerts, dances, and all that makes college life so dear a part of every girl’s experience. We know that there is much that is worth while for the girls who come to our “College on the Hill.” 48 THE SPECTATOR t ( lumni f JUST A STORY BACK in the mountain of Kentucky, away from the Blue Grass Region, a gap cuts through the age-old hills making a valley perhaps three miles long and one mile wide. On the southern side, somewhat to the east, the Tollivers had lived for generations; on the northern slope and more to the west, dwelt the Turners. Between these two families existed one of those curses of that upland country, a feud. It was of such long standing that no one could give a veracious account of its origin—but that at the time of which I write there remained to carry on the old vendetta: of the Tollivers, Old Jud and Young Jud, father and son: of the Turners, Tom and his young brother Dan. The blood of these four ran just as hot against each other as had the blood of their fathers, perhaps more so, fostered as it was by many years of violent hate. In 1917, Dan Turner returned home from one of his rare visits to the Blue Grass country, with a strange excitement in his eyes and strange words on his lips. He told of the commotion in the places he had seen; that the war (of which they had heard vaguely) had come to the place where United States was going to take a hand; that he had seen a recruiting officer; that he had enlisted. Tom, when he heard, turned away and said nothing though his heart was rebellious within him at the thought of his brother’s leaving, especially now when trouble with the Tollivers seemed imminent, leaving to meddle in other folks’ business. His heart was bitter as the next day he watched the boy stride down the trail to the outer world and the great adventure. Later he learned that Young Jud Tolliver had gone too, and he wondered, strangely enough, if that hostile cabin across the creek seemed as lonesome as did his. To avoid the painful duty of writing, Dan sent his brother papers and magazines, which were, perhaps, better for after they were laboriously deciphered, Tom had received some things to think about that Dan could never have given him. One evening, about seven months after Dan’s enlistment, some time after his entering the lines of the fighters in France, Tom sat on the porch of his little cabin home reading over again the articles which his brother had sent him. Slowly the thoughts that had been seething through his mind for five or six months came to a point and he expressed himself to his pipe as follows: “It’s just this way. I remember how when I was a little boy, an’ the feud was goin’ on bad, an’ Uncle Joe an’ pap were cross at each other an’ then real trouble with the Tollivers started, they put aside their own little quarrels right away, so they could get together an’ help the family. Now, I figger we all belong to this United States family an’ we should fergit our little quarrels to help out the country: I guess the Turner-Tolliver feud can rest for a while fer by golly! I’m going to enlist.” He meditated till the sun went down and little chill winds, laden with mist circled the cabin, till the great stars shone down from the night sky; till the call of the owl and the faint far cry of a wild cat mingled with the rustle of leaves and the intermittent chirping of crickets. Suddenly he was roused from his thoughts by a step on the trail and a long clear shout. He rose to his feet. It couldn’t be! But it was! Up the steps leaped Danny, Danny come back to him, minus an arm, and still shaky from shock; Danny nevertheless. The first word to break the silence of their meeting was spoken by Tom. “I’m going too.” There on the little porch they stood together and a new affection flowed between them. In the Tolliver home. Old Jud sat in the firelight, his shaggy head bowed on his chest. Over and over he wondered why he THE SPECTATOR 49 had not shot the khaki clad figure or Dan Turner that afternoon, on the trail leading out of the Gap. Over and over he marvelled at his indecision his final turning away from temptation. “It was because he was crippled,” he argued himself into believing before he tramped off to bed. A year passed. Young Jud Tolliver came home with one leg. Tom Turner had been over-seas five months. The two cabins in the Gap seemed just as far apart as ever. Came Armistice Day. The little village at the foot of the mountain sent messengers to bring Jud and Dan down to head a parade. “Surely they won’t fight this day,” the townspeople whispered to each other. The two came, distrustful, rigid with expectancy. They met in front of the Court House. For a long, long time they looked into each other’s eyes. Moved by an im- pulse they could not resist, at last they clasped hands and their faces broke into boyish smiles. Theirs was a pledge of friendship not easily broken. When Tom Turner, white and thin from weeks in the hospital stepped from the train that skirted the little village a most amazing sight met his eyes. Down the street in perfect file was passing a parade, led by Jud Tolliver, his crutch for the moment discarded in preference to the one good arm of Dan Turner. He followed them up the square and stood on the corner while they disbanded. Then the two started toward him followed by Old Jud, his face beaming with a smile. Tom drew a great deep breath of happiness. “It was always so. After the big trouble we found our little quarrels didn’t amount to much,” he said to no one in particular before he was surrounded by the welcoming three. —Madaline Shaffer, ’23. MEMORIES . riHEN one has passed from childhood into maidenhood and then hesita-bjjra ting, stands on the brink of woman-hood ’tis a privilege to let the mind go back for a little while of blissful memories, to be a child again, a happy romping youngster that seems a part of the sunshine and fresh air. We can breathe a prayer of thankfulness for sweet memories. ’Twas in an old homestead built among evergreens and maples on a winter’s evening that a little girl leaned on the lap of a sweet faced, white haired grandmother. The plump brown hands were clasped in a worn wrinkled one while before them sat an old man nodding, nodding. An open book was laying forgotten in his lap, and lower, lower dropped the hoary head as farther he entered into his dreams. “Grandfather sleeps, little one,” whispered the old lady as she gazed at the slumberer. “He is tired from the day’s work and we must not disturb him.” The child crept closer to the grandmother and slipping a little arm about her neck she pleaded, “Tell me a story', please grand- mother.” And the grandmother, lifting the child in her arms began. “Years ago, little one, when grandpa was only a little boy, there lived far to the east a girl of four summers. She had long black curls and dark eyes like yours and a dear grandmother.” “Like you are, grandmother,” questioned the little one, and nodding, the old lady continued. “They lived in a little hut at the foot of a great mountain and a big strong man, the little girl’s father lived there too. Time had been good to them and when spring came in all her beauty, they tilled the land and sowed the seeds, and in the autumn when Jack Frost turned the leaves to gold and crimson and yellow, they gathered in the com and apples and pumpkins. When the snow began to drift around the little hut they were prepared to meet it. The little girl was always happy and merry and she romped over the woods to her heart’s content. One day she noticed tears in the eyes of her grandmother as her father talked with her, and she saw that his face seemed drawn and white. The grandmother was pleading with him not to go. Her father gently wiped the tears from her eyes and told her his country had 50 THE SPECTATOR called and he must go. Then he ilfted the little girl in his arms and brushing the curls from the fair forehead he kissed her many, many times, telling her to be good to grandmother, and with a long look at his boyhood home he left. Anna, the little girl, could not understand where he had gone and running to the grandmother she asked her where daddy was going and why. “Anna dear,” said her grandmother, “Daddy has gone to a place where they are calling men to enlist and then he will be called to fight for our country. There is a war between the North and the South dear, and only God can care for us now.” And the tears fell faster over her face. “What is war, grandmother? Is it very wicked?” inquired Anna, and she was told the cruelness, the sufferings of a war. Anna’s big brown eyes filled with tears and she too cried for her daddy. “But if he doesn’t come back, Grandmother, God will care for us and God will care for daddy too,” and little Anna seemed comforted. But a sad change had come over the little hut and now when Anna played she could hear a roar like a distant thunder and the sky seemed always smoky. At night when she stood beside her grandmother they could see a red light in the distance which illumined the sky for miles. It had been many months since Anna’s father had left the little hut and the grandmother had not heard from him. Her face grew thinner and her hair whiter, while the shadows in her eyes became deeper. One day while Anna was playing with her doll she saw a man come from the. woods and then another and another followed until there was twelve. They were dressed in grey and carried guns but little Anna who had never known fear, ran to meet them. Maybe one was daddy and she ran all the faster. The men soon saw her and stopped until she stood before them, her curls in disorder and her cheeks aflame. “Who are you, girl?” spoke the man who seemed to be the leader, as he took her by the arm. “Where do you live?” “Just over there with grandma” she said, as she pointed to the hut. “But I thought daddy might be here. Don’t you know where daddy is?” and her brown eyes filled with tears. The man turned to his companions and after a few words of conversation, he turned to Anna, and lifting her in his arms they walked back into the dense woods. Anna began to cry and the man threatened to whip her if she made any noise. After an hours tramp the man suddenly stopped, put Anna down, and turned to his comrades said, “I can’t do it boys. She reminds me of Ruth.” And his thoughts carried him back to Kentucky where a sunny haired baby girl waved goodbye to her father. Swiftly he turned and with Anna made his way back to the hut. Then he bade her run to her grandmother and Anna soon was safe in her arms. The old lady paused in her story-telling and the child questioned “But her daddy, grandmother, did he come back?” The soft eyes filled with tears as she whispered, “No, little one, Anna never saw her daddy again.” The child sat quietly in her grandmother’s arms. An old clock in the hall struck nine and the grandfather slowly came back from his dreaming. “Why it’s nine, Anna, and time for the little one to be asleep. Come cricket, come Anna, ’tis bedtime.” The grandmother arose, and leading the child she followed the grandfather up the long broad stairs. Some years have passed since the grandmother told the small child the story on that winter’s evening. The sweet-faced grandmother now sleeps beneath the green sod in a little country church-yard, and the grandfather still sets before the fire, his hair a little whiter, nodding and dreaming—dreaming of her who had gone on before him. The child no longer is a child. Her baby face and ways have changed with the years. Sometimes when the days seem long and weary she becomes a baby again, sitting in the old homestead by her grandmother. And although she awakes all too soon to find herself no longer a child, joy fills her heart that the years cannot rob her of memories. —Sara Frederick, ’23. THE SPECTATOR 51 i! Exchanges ;; ANY exchanges were received since the last issue. Among them were some newt friends which we welcome heartily. Our old friends, I think, know that they are always welcome and we sure are glad to see that “Day by day in every way they are getting better and better.” The jokes are very good in all the papers. (That have any). Two or tTiree of the papers have very few jokes or they have none. The students will as a rule agree that jokes are about the most interesting part of the magazine. When your paper comes out is not the general quest—“Did you read this one?” Of course, if there are no jokes in your paper you have not had the pleasure of hearing that remark. Some of the magazines have excellent authors and others poets, while still others are well supplied with both. The exchanges which were received this issue are the following: OLD FRIENDS Slippery Rocket....................... The Optimist ......................... The Arrow ............................ The Brown and White .................. The Pioneer .......................... The Dawn ...................-......... Trotty Veck .......................... The Coker ............................ The Mirror ........................... The Crimson and Gold ................. The Blue and White ................... The Red and White .................... Broadcaster .......................... Slippery Rock, Penna. .....Titusville, Penna. .......Midland, Penna. ...Greensburg, Penna. ...Rural Valley, Penna. ........Meriden, Conn. .....Leechburg, Penna. ..Connellsville, Penna. ........Sharon, Penna. New Brighton, Penna. ......Newport, Penna. ....Kittanning, Penna. .........Ridgely, Tenn. NEW FRIENDS The Quill ....................................Parkersburg, W. Va. The Buzzer ...................................Reynoldsville, Penna. Ohio Wesleyan Alumni Magazine ......................Delaware, Ohio Nothing was quoted from each magazine this issue but the following was given to us by a member of our faculty. It is from the Williamson Alumni Magazine: OH. AIN’T IT AWFUL By I. Good Awful is an adjective, That’s very much abused. It’s awful when you think of it, How awful it is used. It’s awful good, it’s awful bad, The weather’s awful cold, It was an awful pretty gown, The style was awful bold. We’re awful early sometimes, 52 THE SPECTATOR And sometimes we’re awful late. It’s awful nice to love some one, But awful mean to hate, We speak of some things awful sweet. And some things awful sour. Down at the dentist’s shop one day, We spent an awful hour. An awful pretty maiden, Weds an awful homely man. It’s awful good to go to Church, But awful to say damn. Oh, yes, it’s really awful How awful it is used This awful handy adjective, So awfully abused. RULE OF THREE Three things to govern—Temper, tongue, conduct. Three things to love—Courage, gentleness, affection. Three things to hate—Cruelty, arrogance, ingratitude. Three things to delight in—Frankness, freedom, beauty. Three things to wish for—Health, friends, a cheerful spirit. Three things to avoid—Idleness, loquacity, flippant jesting. Three things to fight for—Honor, country, home. Three things to think about—Life, death, eternity. ‘f Too Much for a Nickel Boy in drug store: “Gimme a nickel’s worth of asafoetida and charge it to Mr. Hunnyfunkle. Druggist: “Take it for nothing kid, I won’t write “asafoetida”, and “Hunnyfunkle” all for a nickel.” Teacher: “John, where’s your joke?” John, pointing to blank sheet of paper: “There’s my joke.” Teacher: “But there’s nothing on it.” John: “Oh, that’s all right, I wrote my joke in “blank verse.” Heard in History Class Girl (discussing a convention held in the southern states prior to the Civil War): “One man got up and five states followed.” Rastus: “Mah wife sure do love to be kissed.” Sam: (with enthusiasm) “L’ll say she do.” Rastus: (suspiciously) “What’s dat?” Sam: “I say, do she?” THE SPECTATOR 53 ylrmy Chatter Pat’s Experience in the Army When Pat enlisted in the army he was the greenest thing ever seen. He had just come from Ireland and made even the Emerald Isle stand back when compared with their colors. During a trying day in camp while the soldiers were in review the Sergeant gave the command—Halt. Much to his surprise Pat plodded on ahead unmindful of the command. Now the Sergeant had a humor of his own so he caid, “Pat did you ever drive a mule?” “Yis sor”, came the reply. “Well, what did you say when you wanted the mule to stop?” “Whoa, of course, sor.” No more was said and when the command to halt rang out it went like this, “Halt squad, whoa Pat.” Needless to say Pat was soon cured. Consolation Private George Washington Lincoln Botts held all laurels as being the laziest darkey-in the Umpty-teenth Steve-dores. His idea of work was that it was something that wasn’t done and his idea of real life was a continuous round of food. But one day at mess he did raise a howl. “Lawsy me!” he bellowed, “ah’s done swallered a worm.” “Swallered a worm, is yo’?” demanded his top Sergeant in deep disguest. “Cheer up, big boy, mebby dat’ll put some new life in you’.” Some Meal “Sure it was horse meat they fed us up in the front lines,” asserted the veteran. “But how do you know it was?” demanded the skeptical one. “Because one day- when I was eating some of it somebody outside hollered, “Whoa!” and I choked.” Rapid Recovery Rastus was on the firing line for the first time. During a lull in the barrage he came to the conclusion that somewhere else was the place for him and set off at high speed. The corporal saw him as he was on the point of entering a convenient shell hole and yelled: “What you’-all doin’ there? Come back h’jah and take yo’ medicine.” “Don’ need no medicine,” Rastus shouted back. “Ah’s cured, ah’s cured.” “Mess Dictionary” Slum: The main thing a doughboy got to eat, most every morning, noon and night, all agree was made of everything unfit to eat. Goldfish: Salmon packed in cans. Monkey Meat: A stringy meat that comes packed in cans, source unknown. Hardtack: A sort of heavy biscuit. Comes in different sizes. Some small as oyster crackers, others like Uneeda biscuits, and others about three inches square, and an inch thick. The doughboys say they could break an inch board with the latter and not even crack the hardtack. Hash: Almost the same as slum. The slum is thin while the hash is thick. Corbill: Nickname for com beef in cans. 14 Carrot Soup: This is really carrot soup. But is called this because about 14 carrots are used in making the soup for a company. Rabbit: Canned rabbit that the British gave the boys. Shipped from Australia, it was generally spoiled when the boys got it. Horse Meat: The boys claim this is regular horse meat but is not bad tasted. Hand Leather: A nickname for hot grid- dle cakas. —Richard Johnston, ’25. 54 TH E SPECTATOR “BUDDIES” Buddies they were thru storm and strife, Marching to battle to the tune of a fife. A bugle sounded, loud and shrill Echoing, far and near, from hill to hill. The soldiers at once to arms did fly, Singing with courage their battle cry. Shoulder to shoulder, thru thick and thin, They fought with a hero’s might and vim. That night when the sun set in the west, Two soldiers, brave, were laid to rest. Buddies they were, that were laid away, Ne’er again to greet the break of day. —Everett Hilty. TAPS Softly and tenderly rings through the night, Sweet strains of melody, saying “Good-night;” Memories of other days cheerful and bright, Blending with shadows so peaceful and quiet, Dreams that were prayers for a loved one’s return, Camp-fires of hope that forever will burn. Softly and tenderly rings through the day, Sad lamentations—they’ve laid him away; Tears from brave hearts that are tender and true, Fall on the flag as it passes from view; Glorious silence descends over all; My hope is dead and has answered the call. Softly and tenderly rings through the years, Undying memories of brave pioneers; Nations are builded on bones of the brave, Drinking eternally life that they gave; Softly and tenderly rings through the night, “Thy work is finished forever—Good-night.” —Selected. THE STAR In the Front Line Trenches at Midnight The tang of frost upon the air— The constellation’s blaze on high; An evening star gleams wonderous fair Then disappears............I wonder why. A burst of fire upon the right— A scream of agony from afar A soldier’s soul speeds through the night To heaven’s gate..........It was the Star. —Selected. THE SPECTATOR 55 THE ROOKIES ERRAND A bright-eyed rookie, One summer day On a dangerous errand Was sent far away. To go into the trenches. Then over the top, And stop the Germans Like a traffic cop. He stopped not for friend, He stopped not for foe, For duty had called him; He answered, “I’ll go.” The cannon roared round him, The bullets flew past; Some men left the trenches, He stuck till the last. Now poppies bloom o’er him, Their caps red and gay; While the wind through the night Hums a soft plaintive lay. —Margaret Loring, ’24. Patronize Our Advertisers Hats for Spring t NOW ARRIVING X AT THE STORES THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ DRESS SHOP 56 THE SPECTATOR 4 ° Paid on Savings Compounded Semi-Annually Save $ 2.00 per week and have $1276.11 in 10 years. Save $ 5.00 per week and have $3190.28 in 10 years. Save $10.00 per week and have $6380.56 in 10 years. Citizens National Bank of Vandergrift, Pa. George A. oMarkell cTVlotor Company WILLYS-KNIGHT OVERLAND CADILLAC 194-196 Lincoln Avenue HUDSON ESSEX Vandergrift, Pa. THESPECTATOR 57 Mr. Money: “James, how did you lose your front tooth?1 James: “Shifting gears on a lolly pop.” Klingensmith Hardware Store Successor to ALTER WHITEHEAD YOUR PATRONAGE SOLICITED 138 Grant Ave. Vandergrift, Pa. THE SPECTATOR Phone 760 A W. E. Donahey Hardware Paints and Oils 309 Longfellow Street VANDERGRIFT, PA. Footwear and Hosiery WE FIT FEET 142 Grant Avenue J. FRANK BLAIR Foot Expert BENJAMIN’S GRANT AVENUE PHARMACY GEORGE R. BENJAMIN, Ph. G. Prescription Druggists The IR XCxBJL Store Eastman Kodaks and Films Fresh Stock RIECKS ICE CREAM (Exclusively) J. E. CRAWFORD Wall Paper, Paints, Varnishes and Brushes Picture Framing a Specialty ;; 209 Longfellow Street Phone 443 J -h-h-k-h- -1 COMPLIMENTS OF BRIDESON LACE THE SPECTATOR 59 Your Taxi Co. of Vandergrift Says: “Our services, rendered under new management, cannot be equalled in Vandergrift and vicinity.” Call Phone 700-701 DAY zAND NIGHT SERVICE Yellow Cab Co. Vandergrift, Pa. Misplaced Mirth Little Willie suddenly burst into his mother’s room crying. Mother: “What’s the matter?” Willie: “Daddy was taking a big box out of the car and it fell on his toes.” Mother (tenderly): “But that was nothing to cry about. You should have laughed.” Willie: “I did.” SWANK STEEL Hardware Furniture Sporting Goods Household Outfitters 122-4 Grant Ave. Phone 3-A 60 THE SPECTATOR I! 138 Grant Street TOP COATS FOR SPRING $25.00’ $30.°°' $35.00 BIEHL C CO. VANDERGRIFT, PA. Phone P A 38 Vandergrift Sugar Bowl JOHN LAMBROS, Prop. •• 147 Grant Ave. Vandergrift S. E. cTVIOHNEY :: Shoes and Men’s Furnishings 237 Longfellow St. Vandergrift, Pa. Fine Confections and Ice Cream Wholesale and Retail Special Prices on Women’s High and Low Shoes WE SERVE TASTY CREAM STOP! HOT DOGS —AT— WALLACE RESTAURANT —AND— TRY THE BEST MEALS Home Baked Pies—Best in Town All Sandwiches a Specialty Phone 444 A GUST PANAGOS 703 Wallace Street THE SPECTATOR 61 Price F. O. B. Factory $965 AH Models are Equipped with Four Wheel Brakes for Safety HOWARD E. WAGLE VANDERGRIFT, PA. Two to One Stout lady to a boy in street car: “Why don’t you get up and let one of those young ladies sit down?” Boy: “Why don’t you get up and let them both sit down?” Miss Ray, exhausted, after explaining a problem in algebra several times, said: “Everybody watch the board while I go through it again.” ■■I..;..!..;..;..;..;..;. We can make that kitchen of yours something to be proud of, and at a very moderate outlay. The Hoosier Kitchen Cabinet in oak and white enamel. This 10 piece of guaranteed cutlery with each Beauty cabinet given free. R. M. ARMSTRONG Vandergrift, Pa. 62 THE SPECTATOR cTVlcCLAIN’S | VARIETY STORE -H-M-I-M-M I 1 I I■ ■ I I■ ■ I E. E. BIRAM ; DISHWARE GROCERIES NOVELTIES HOUSEHOLD NECESSITIES 168 Columbia Ave. : 202 Longfellow St. Phone 247 LADIES’ BAZAAR ; | Has a Full Line of f SPRING COATS and DRESSES j I We SANDWICH : SHOPPE ! J. I. ALLEN TENCH BROS. j • :: I Light Lunches and Sandwiches • DRY GOODS f • : and GROCERIES :: Drinks and Candies ; I Columbia Ave. Vandergrift • W? DIAMOND STORE THE SPECTATOR 63 TtTTtTHTTTTTT « Our Motto—“THE BEST” ROCCO CALDERONE CO. Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Foreign and Domestic Fruits Buyers and Dealers in All Kinds of Fruits, Produce and Vegetables Potatoes, Cabbage and Green Goods Oranges, Bananas and Apples 142-144-146 Columbia Ave. Phone 139A1 235 Longfellow St. Phone 259 Vandergrift, Pa. •K- RHODY’S j MUSIC STORE f A. W. Rhody sells the same -• piano for less money. ” Save from $100.00 to $200.00 ;; on a Piano Talking machines, violins, banjo ukes, tenor banjos, guitars, strings, etc., at special ;; prices. 152-154 Farrague Ave. - I! Vandergrift, Pa. Phone 569-A ” A Powerful Poison Mr. Margraff, lecturing on cyanide of potassium in Chemistry: “Cyanide of potassium is such a very deadly poison, that one drop of it on the tongue of a rabbit will kill the strongest man.” Prof Kurtz: “Some time ago my doctor told me to exercise every morning with dumb-bells. Will this class please report tomorrow before breakfast?” BUCK’S BILLIARDS BOWLING CIGARS League match games each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday ;; t and Thursday evenings. ” YOU ALL KNOW WHERE THE SPECTATOR f PUGLIESE BROS. | J. E. Doverspike Strictly Sanitary Fancy Groceries choice Dry Goods MEATS ' 101 Longfellow St. Phone 498 £ Phone 729 III Cor. Longfellow and Hancock 1 Avenue Wescott Sedan—$2220 F. O. B. Vandergrift H. L. YERTY GARAGE Wescott, Moon and Gardner Cars Stewart Trucks Phones: Residence 508L, Office 612 142 Washington Ave., Vandergrift, Pa. CONDOS MARKET 161 COLUMBIA AVE. VANDERGRIFT Phone 35 THE SPECTATOR 65 H. J. Kuhns Leading Plumber —Also— Hot Water Heating and Electric Wiring Phone 139—Apollo Phone 75 R—Vandergrift VANDERGRIFT DRY CLEANING WORKS Pressing and Repairing Office, 111 Grant Ave. VANDERGRIFT, PA. Phone 418 L Office Warren Ave., Apollo, Pa. Phone 326 Any absent minded Junior or Senior: “Great Heavens! I’ve borrowed the book instead of the book report.” Pat: “What do you charge for a funeral notice in your paper?” Editor: “Two dollars an inch.” Pat: “Good Heavens! An’ me poor brother was six feet high.” Lucille Means: (talking about catechism) “Our class is past original sin.” Mary Orr: “That’s nothing, our class is past redemption.” A lady after giving a small boy some candy: “Now what do you say?” Boy: “Gimme some more.” Tom: “Here, what are you doing with those teaspoons in your pocket?” Eugene: “Doctor’s orders.” Tom: “What do you mean?” Eugene: “He told me to take two teaspoons after every meal.” 66 THE SPECTATOR Recently a small boy crawled in under the bed to escape getting a whipping from his mother. She told him she would have his father get him when he came home from work. That evening when the father came home, he strated to crawl in under the bed and was very much astonished when his young son called out, “Gee pop, Is she after you, too?” Miss Bain: “Bob, what is space?” Bob: “I can’t think at present, but I have it in my head.” Tom (undecided): “What would you do if you were in my shoes.” Dick (glancing at Tom’s shoes): “I’d buy a new pair.” Prof. Money: “Long walks build up the body.” Secrist: “Yes, but how they wear down the sole.” Butcher: “We have some nice round steak today.” Mrs. Newbride: “How much is it per-er-per diameter?” If You Want a first class job of electric wiring done cheap. If You Want a good pretty lot of electric fixtures for your house. If You Want some dishes, either low priced for every day or the highest grade. If You Wish any glass ware, if plain or high cut. Call at GEO. F. BREIG 174 Columbia Ave. Phone 117 .j. t $ BROWN ! � FLORIST | Has a full line of the best t floral stock obtainable :l: Prices Are Right REMEMBER Birthdays, Anniversaries, ;; and other “big” days, and ” above all Mother. Call 113 Grant Ave. Or Phone 350 II “Say it with Flowers” -H—H—H-H-H-S-H- •; J. S. Whitworth, President R. C. George, Secretary and Treasurer Vandergrift Savings and Trust Company Vandergrift, Pa. Capital..................$ 130,000.00 Surplus and Undivided Profits - 200,000.00 Resources...................... 3,000,000.00 DIRECTORS J. S. Whitworth Dr. J. A. Boale R. G. Scott Oscar Lindquist J. C. Kahl T. J. Rowley M. E. Uncapher H. J. Kuhns R. C. George Dr. W. J. Carnahan H. L. Bodwell Small Boy at Zoo: “Gee mom that giraffe looks just like papa.” Mamma (in horror): “Willie, aren’t you ashamed?” Small Boy: “Aw gee, the giraffe didn’t hear me.” Miss Boyd: “What is a collective noun?” Erie H.: “A tax collector.” :: Compliments of IRIS THEATRE ” In the CASINO BUILDING :: The Home of High Class Features :: Phone 504 A Your Effic Depends on Your Eyes Good work needs good eyesight, because as a chain is no stronger ';han its weakest link, so we are no stronger than our weakest faculty. Don’t wonder' whether' or not your eyes are efficient Have them examined—and KNOW Government statistics prove that over 80% of the men examined for the army had defective vision. This should indicate that possibly your eyesight is not so efficient as it should be. are caused by eyestrain. If you suffer from headaches you ought to question the condition of your eyes. Often with vision apparently normal, eyes greatly need the help of lenses. Only an examination can make you sure. We give special attention to School Folks, and by working under the McCormick system we secure results more accurate and sure. No guessing and the benefits are lasting. We use no drops or drugs and our charges are moderate. Phillips (Landes headaches cTWcCormick Ophthalmologists Grant Ave. Phone 275