Scholarship Winners in Welland

StC 200120 members of Welland's Canadian Slovak League Branch 23 attended the Christmas get-together at St. Anthony's Church hall on River Road, in Welland. A wonderful meal, prepared by the cooks of St. Anthony's, consisted of breaded chicken, kolbasa, pasta and meatballs, potatoes, vegetables, salad and fresh home-baked bread. The delicious desert, a dobos torte, was made by Sylvia's bakery. We sang a few Christmas carols and listened to both Slovak and English carols during our meal.

Later, scholarships were awarded to our hard working applicants. Br. 23 was proud to recognize 6 outstanding students this year. Jennifer Csele, enrolled in the Engineering Program at Queen's University, received 1st place scholarship in the University category from the Canadian Slovak League, as well as a scholarship from Br 23 and 1st District Assembly. Christina Csele, a graduate of Media Web Design, received a scholarship from Br. 23. Ryan Vyrostko, enrolled in the Commerce program at the University of Guelph, placed 4th in the University category from the Canadian Slovak League, and received a scholarship from Br. 23 and 1st District Assembly. Harrison Clifford, enrolled in the Commerce program at the University of Guelph, was 3rd in the University category from the Canadian Slovak League, and received scholarships from Br. 23 and 1st District Assembly. John Clifford, who is also enrolled in the Commerce program at the University of Guelph, placed 6th with the Canadian Slovak League, and received scholarships from Br. 23 and 1st District Assembly. Diane Hawker received a scholarship from Br. 23 and is continuing her college education. All six of these young people have worked and studied very hard to achieve high outstanding grades, therefore, deserving this recognition for their academic accomplishments. Our congratulations to all of them!

President, Christine Dzugan, also spoke to everyone on how important it is for CSL members to get involved with their branch committees and activities, and with the Head Office, to unite and work together to achieve future goals; and, that holding a branch committee position or electing to be a director of the CSL Head Office is the best way to be involved and to take responsibility of ensuring the success and continuation of the CSL. Our organization is one that we can all be proud to be a part of. We are the Canadian Slovak League, and our future depends on us!

Santa had arrived later to visit everyone, talking to the youth and passing out treats. In the end, we all had a wonderful time sharing our friendship with each other during the Christmas season.

Christine Dzugan,
President, Canadian Slovak League Branch 23, Welland

Pictures provided by Mike Dinga, CSL Br. 23