MYRNAM – On July 20, the Myrnam and District Ukrainian Dance Club celebrated its 50th anniversary with plenty of performances for the community.
In spite of the scorching hot weather, dancers from the club donned their colourful, traditional Ukrainian outfits and graced the floor at the Elks Hall. Some of the club's alumni also came back home to perform, including, Kari Karbashewski-Morgam who currently resides in St. Albert.
She emceed the afternoon celebration and was also part of the club's 50th-anniversary committee.
Karbashewski-Morgam's family has always been part of the dance club, and her mother was also one of the first members of the club when it was put together. To come back, see familiar faces, and perform for the celebration, "It was just an honour," she said.
Many clubs do not survive half a century, she acknowledged, especially when challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic arise. But, "we plowed through and survived."
Aimee Chanasyk is the current president of the dance club. Seeing the success of the performances, Chanasyk expressed her pride.
"It's crazy," she said. Many of the dancers, including the younger ones, wrapped up the season in April, giving them a few months off.
"We only just got them back together last week to put this on today."
The day was a success, Chanasyk said, even though it was very hot.
"It was beautiful."
Karbashewski-Morgam and Chanasyk thanked everyone who came out to celebrate.
"Thank you to all the former alumni... the former dancers," who took part in the celebration, said Karbashewski-Morgam. "I know there was quite a few of them in the crowd. I know a lot of them... We appreciate them being here," as well as those who have kept the club going through the years.
Chanasyk agreed. "It's a wonderful community."
For those interested with joining the club, registrations will begin in September.
Earlier that day, the Myrnam Agricultural Society also presented the 2024 Myrnam Fun Days, celebrating 50 years for the Ag Society, 50 years for the Myrnam Seniors, and 50 years for the dance club. A parade and several other events were held.
*Check back for more coverage of the 50th anniversary celebrations that took place in Myrnam
