On behalf of the Board of Directors, I wish to thank everyone who attended the 72nd Slovak Day on July 18, 2010 in Milton, Ontario.  Congratulations to Margita Galat, President, 1st District Assembly of the Canadian Slovak League for organizing this year’s Slovak Day; and a special thank you to the dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers who helped to make the 72nd Slovak Day a successful event.

The day began with the Greek Catholic Slovak Mass that was co-celebrated by Rev. Jozef Mucha (Hamilton) and Rev. Martin Vavrak (Windsor). Afterwards, the many families and friends who came from near and far enjoyed a traditional Slovak lunch of schnitzel and potato salad, and there was a wide selection of pastries and cakes for dessert. The bar was well stocked with the usual selection but the most popular choice was the Golden Pheasant Slovak beer.     

As in past years, the sound of Slovak music and song filled the air. Participants were entertained with a formal cultural program, and later people danced to the music of Miro Letko.  As well, there was impromptu music provided by Stefan Duga (St. Catharines) who played his accordion to an audience in the picnic area. Many participants showed their Slovak pride by wearing Slovak t-shirts, pins and hats, and it was a delight to see Stephanie Rose, Slovak Ambassador in the St. Catharines Folk Arts Council, dressed in her traditional Slovak costume.

Slovak Day is a perfect occasion for grandparents, parents, and children to celebrate their Slovak heritage and strengthen the bonds between these generations of Slovaks in Canada.  Let’s come together again next year at the 73rd Slovak Day.

Mary Ann (Hačková) Doucette
President, Canadian Slovak League

And where are the pictures? You can see them in the 30. issue of The Canadian Slovak, which you can download by clicking on this link.