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16 OUR LIFE • December 2025 MAL Memories Member-at-Large Reminiscences Celebrate the UNWLA Centennial To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the UNWLA, last February Members-at-Large across the U.S. were invited to share their experiences and memories of tending the flames that keep our traditions and cultural heritage alive, of cel - ebrating their role in cherishing and nurturing ties to the country that helped form all of us into proud Americans with deep Ukrainian roots. “Our shared history, culture and language become especially precious when a wrathful foe aims to wipe them out,” the invitation read. “Since the full-scale Russian invasion, celebrating our unique Ukrainian heritage has strengthened us and brought us closer together in spirit.” Dozens of MAL responded to the call, sharing cherished memories of important moments, events, and objects that showcase their pride and joy as members of the UNWLA and their continued commitment to fan the flame for future generations. Here, a selection of their stories. Olya Czerkas – St. Petersburg, Florida (MAL President) This candle was one of the first purchases my parents made when they arrived in the United States. To keep the Ukrainian Christmas Eve traditions in our family alive every year, the candle is lit, prayers are said, and the traditional 12-course Christmas Eve meal is served. This candle has been lit to begin Christmas Eve in my family for the past 70 years. It has been passed from one generation to the next, reminding us of warm memories of the past and the love of family and Ukraine, and is a positive inspiration for years to come. Dance, music, art, and children have all been important and essential parts of my life. Combining these loves over many years, I have taken the oppor - tunity to educate children about Ukrainian culture, music, and traditions through dance. As an instructor, choreographer, and director of children’s dance groups for many years in Lorain, OH, and St. Petersburg, FL, and for 28 years at Soyuzivka’s Tennis and Children’s Summer camps, I have taught children about Ukraine and Ukrainian culture. I am proud that our love of Ukrainian culture and traditions continues over many generations. This pho - to is from 1987. Tania Bardyn – Bothell, Washington I have a passion for jewelry, particularly Ukrainian jewelry. Supporting Ukrainian ar - tisans became a crucial form of advocacy for me when the war in Ukraine began. I purchased this traditional Ukrainian namysto necklace from Oksana Boriychuk, on Etsy, to support her craftsmanship. Every time I wear it, I receive compliments and questions, giving me the chance to advocate for Ukrainian artisans. This necklace has become one of my favorite pieces. Nadia Kachalenko – Palm Beach Gardens, Florida These two decorative items, a bedspread and an embroidered sheet, were hand-crafted in the Halychyna region of Western Ukraine in the early 20th century. They were gifted to me by my grandmother Mariya Zayatz (born in 1908) when I got married. She, in turn, inherited them from my great-grand - mother Olena Bychok. I brought them with me to America in 1992 and have treasured them for 33 years, enjoying the colors and fine embroidery every Christmas and Easter holiday. My family and friends admire the amazingly preserved and never-fading colors of these true masterpieces.
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