Received a very surprising message from an American high school student in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is president and founder of the "Serbian Heritage Appreciation Club". They have around 15 members that have no relation to Serbia, except interest! He made me very proud!!! Here is his message : "Hey Charles, I've been watching your videos for a while and have even shared quite a few at my school. I live in Las Vegas, Nevada, where I am president of my high school's "Serbian Heritage Appreciation Club" that I made for others like me who are interested in learning more about Serbia. I have a few questions I would love if you could make a video about to answer, that I would play for our club to watch! First off, I was wondering what the proper etiquette is while the Serbian National Anthem is played/performed. In America we put our hands on our hearts and it is acceptable to sing along, what about in Serbia? Also, it would be awesome if you could explain a little bit about how the Serbian lifestyle differs from the average American's? Personally, living in Serbia, what differences have you noticed? Finally, what do you think are the most unique and interesting parts about Serbian culture. Thanks a ton for reading Charles! Sincerely, Gavin Brooks' I responded asking for a contact email for my Serbian pals that wanted to speak to him . Here is his response: "Hey Charles, Thanks for all the kind words, I am very excited for the video! First off, you and any of your friends are welcome to email me at " gavinbrooks@cox.net ", that would be super cool! And quite honestly, the story behind this club is rather odd. I remember finding some video on YouTube a long time ago that was made/about something Serbian (I can't quite remember). Then, since then, I kept learning more and more about Serbia and what an interesting place is. Therefore, my idea to start the club came from an inspiration to learn more about the place, seeing as how it has such a distinct culture and welcoming atmosphere. Unfortunately, most Americans don't even know that Serbia is a place (especially at the high school age). Most people know Russia and Ukraine, France or England, but for some reason Serbia is a very unspoken place. Even in the World History textbook, it's only mentioned once. Most of the people in my club now are people who initially didn't know a lot/much at all about Serbia, but we have learned a lot together and have grown to have an odd love for Serbia. I say it's odd, only because none of us have any relation to the country. None of us have been there, or have direct relatives from Serbia, but our passion continues to grow for the unique place, the more we learn! We only have 10-15 members, but for all of us, our club meetings are our favorite parts of the school week. I don't want to rush you and understand this is very last minute, but if it would be convenient for you to put up the video before 3PM serbian time, today (01/23/14), that way I could show it in today's club meeting. If not, it's totally cool as well, I have a few other things planned plus telling them about this contact with you will get everyone excited for a video. Thanks!!! Gavin Brooks"

• published: 23 Jan 2014
• views: 926