EVERYONE SMILES IN THE SAME LANGUAGE

Yarmarka

Sept. 16, 2007

By Carol Kalscheur Jansen

Konkel Park in Greenfield was the new location for FRUA-WI’s fall festival, Yarmarka, on a sunny Sunday afternoon. More than 40 families, plus vendors and guests, enjoyed the festive atmosphere, children’s laughter and perfect weather.

Stas Venglevski, acclaimed as a virtuoso of the bayan, entertained with classical, contemporary and ethnic music. The Russian language was heard in conversation thanks to friendly Madison and Milwaukee language educators, Svetlana Amineva and Vlada Kleyman. Imported eggs decorated with colorful wax were displayed by Ken and Pat Dretza along with dozens of other ethnic items. Jennifer Demar gently encouraged those of us who have yet to create a lifebook for our children that we can do it and she’ll help! Those families who chose to order the meal prepared by Mark and Shawn Geinopolos were treated to delicious fresh chicken and tasty gyros. Mmm…just thinking about it makes me hungry!

Bill and Debbie Selle got involved with Yarmarka in a big way this year and deserve our thanks. Debbie saved the day by purchasing and distributing “bee sting” remedies for two crying children. Bill transported and erected the two inflatable bounce houses that kept the kids happy and occupied all afternoon. He organized the silent auction that raised $400 for charitable initiatives, and if that wasn’t enough, Bill concocted a “digital scavenger hunt” to challenge our youth to search the park for hard-to-find items!

Special thanks to Laura Gorecki and Jodi McMahon, FRUA-WI board members, who worked overtime to greet everyone at the registration table. Jane Runnels, social/cultural committee member, transported materials and gave up time with her family to help every child exchange their game tickets for something special from the prize table. Finally, a big thank you to everyone who cheerfully “worked” for their half-hour assignment and didn’t leave until someone came to relieve them. Yarmarka was safe and fun, and we couldn’t have done it without you. Come again next year!

The social/cultural committee is always looking for people who like to get involved with activities for our FRUA-WI chapter. As current committee members can tell you, the expectation is that you help plan and staff events when and where you can, so don’t be afraid to join! Contact Carol or Bill to help with Grandfather Frost and/or Heritage Camp.

FRUA-WI social/cultural committee co-chairs:

Carol Kalscheur Jansen (kalsc@wi.rr.com 414-321-5920)

Bill Selle (selle@att.net)