CSL Welland Branch 23, celebrated their 74th annual banquet on Oct 18th. A good crowd came out for an evening of good food, great entertainment and dancing. Our banquet was held at St. Anthony's Church hall in Welland, on River Road. Along with our members, we welcomed guests from Niagara Falls, Niagara-On-The-Lake and members of CSL St. Catharines Branch 31.
After a good meal of roast beef, chicken, kolbasa and cabbage rolls, we had the pleasure of having the Vychodna Dancers from Toronto, entertain us. This year, the Vychodna Dancers are celebrating their 30 anniversary and we were very happy that they were able to fit us into their busy schedule. Br. 23 presented the group with a donation, as we have always done in the past, to show our appreciation for their wonderful talent and hard work in presenting us with the gift of Slovak folklore. We extend our congratulations to them and wish them all the best for a successful future!
At the end of the program, two young members, Julia and Daniel Dzugan, helped draw for the lucky winners of the beautiful ornamental pepper plants on each table. Throughout the remainder of the evening, everyone listened and danced to the music of Miro Letko, accompanied by his band members, Joe and Elizabeth. A good time was had by all and we look forward to next year when we will celebrate our 75th anniversary as a branch in Welland.
Christine Dzugan
President, Canadian Slovak League Branch 23, Welland
Pictures provided by Mike Dinga, CSL Br. 23
