People of all ages got the party started on the dance floor to celebrate 50 years of the Lloydminster Ukrainian Cultural Association and Malanka dancers on Jan. 13. Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source
Slava Ukraini! (Glory to Ukraine!)
That was how Lloydminster Ukrainian Cultural Association (LUCA) president Tara Jarvis wrapped up her speech on Saturday night, with hearty applause, at the 50th-anniversary celebration of LUCA and the Malanka dancers.
The night was filled with fun, great food, and of course a dance, featuring the musical stylings of Millenia.
“Today is a very special day as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Lloydminster Ukrainian Cultural Association. Let’s go back 50 years to 1974 when amazing individuals like Lillian Chomik, Pat Stelmaschuk, Ed Lemco, Mercene Iwanic and Jerry Federkewycz came together with a shared love for Ukrainian culture,” said Jarvis.
“They aimed to preserve our traditions for future generations.”
Through a spirited beginning in 1974, along with support from both the local Ukrainian Catholic and Ukrainian Orthodox churches, LUCA and its members fueled a love for Malanka celebrations in the Border City.
By 1982-83 their Malanka dance club was gaining great momentum, hosting their first sold-out Malanka dance in 1984.
Since 2005, Lloydminster’s Ukrainian Dancing on the Border Festival has been a highly anticipated event. This year’s festival is set for March 15-17 at the Vic Juba Community Theatre.
“We’re proud of our Ukrainian culture in Lloydminster … Today, as we celebrate 50 incredible years, our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our founders and all members past and present for their dedication,” said Jarvis.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers was in attendance to support LUCA and the Malanka dancers.
“It’s a real pleasure to bring greetings on behalf of my fellow council members here tonight at this 50th anniversary of the Lloydminster Ukrainian Cultural Association (LUCA) and Malanka,” said Aalbers.
“The Lloydminster Ukrainian Cultural Association has brought music, dance, and food as well as culture each and every year, to our city. I would like to acknowledge our sister city—Nikopol, Ukraine.” Aalbers added they had the opportunity to host the mayor of Nikopol a few years ago, and that their thoughts and prayers are with everyone in Nikopol and Ukraine in general.
Jarvis ended her speech on a high note, looking to the future.
“The Lloydminster Ukrainian Cultural Association is a crucial part of who we are. Looking ahead—let’s keep our Ukrainian traditions alive and pass them on. Here’s to the next 50 years of LUCA and the Malanka dancers!”
