Dave wrote:
> I just checked down in the old parts box, and need to correct somethings
> I indicated below. Firstly, I now believe the correct spelling and
> pronounciation is Balilla [ba-lee-ya].
In Italian you pronounce all letters (with a few very rare exceptions), so it is pronounced Bah-lee-lah, with the stress on the second syllable. There is quite a negative (or possibly positive, depending on your political views) connotation to Ballila. During the years of fascism, all children were encouraged to become members of the fascist youth movement. The members of this movement were called Ballila.
Steven Maasland Moorestown, NJ
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