DISPATCH FROM SOYUZIVKA: Dumka performs during sold-out weekend (08/15/99)

DISPATCH FROM SOYUZIVKA: Dumka performs during sold-out weekend

by Tanya Singura
Special to The Ukrainian Weekly

KERHONKSON, N.Y. - The July 31-August 1 weekend was sold out at Soyuzivka. Our summer concert series continued with the Dumka Chorus on Saturday night, July 31. The choir, which has gotten a large following, sang some new songs as well as old favorites. As concert-goers exited the hall, they headed upstairs toward the sounds of Crystal. Crystal, making its second appearance at Soyuzivka this summer, kept everyone on Veselka patio dancing until dawn.

This week's Hutsul Night also brought back a favorite duo at Soyuzivka. Greg Hrynovets along with Stepan Ben, back from Ukraine, were once again entertaining the crowd. Although the duo hasn't played together for more than five years, they sounded better than ever singing their new summer hit "Kurka z Mayonezom," which brought the Trembita Lounge audience to their feet following Hutsul Night.

We finally got a respite from the hot humid weather here at Soyuzivka. Although the temperatures are still in the mid to upper 80s during the day, the drier, cooler air is a welcome change.

A lack of rain, however, also has been affecting the area. A fire on the Lundy Estate, approximately 10 miles from Soyuzivka, broke out on Saturday. Smoke could be seen over the mountain from the Veselka Patio during Monday night's Steak Night and was finally brought under control later in the week. Lake Minnewaska, only 10 minutes from Soyuzivka, has also been suffering from the lack of rain. They have been battling a root fire for over three weeks.

Soyuzivka was spared what could have been a disaster had one of our workers not been quick to spot smoke while pulling into the parking area near Sich (the worker's dormitory). A smoldering log was found to be the cause of the smoke and was quickly extinguished. It was a reminder to all that we must be extra careful and cautious in these dangerously dry conditions.

The lack of rain has also become a widespread concern. Wells have been running low, including ours here at Soyuzivka. A total of 60,000 gallons of water was trucked in on Wednesday to fill up our reserves; 18,000 gallons were brought in the week prior to fill up the swimming pool. Some guests have been happy to help by conserving water. Another guest suggested we allow 15 people at a time to shower in the water fountain. If we don't get rain soon, we're going to have to ask each of our guests to bring two or three gallons of water with them. Pray for rain!

Tanya Singura is activities director at Soyuzivka.

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