THE NEWS FROM HERE
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.: Ukrainian volunteers
wanted for 26th annual International Folk Festival
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - On September 26 the small North Carolina town of Fayetteville will once again host the International Folk Festival. Thirty countries will be represented at the 26th annual festival, a popular destination in these parts.
The Ukrainian American Group, chaired by Eugene Kobisky, is appealing to fellow Ukrainian Americans for assistance as the Ukrainian community here is very small - consisting of five families, including senior citizens.
Writing as "a devoted patriot," Mr. Kobisky noted: "My Dear Brothers and Sisters we need your assistance in participating in our 26th International Folk Festival being held on September 26 at noon-6 p.m. We are asking for you to have fun at this festival and then join us in the Parade of Nations at 3 p.m."
Thus, his request is a simple one: come on down, attend this free festival (there is no admission fee), have some fun and help represent Ukraine. He added, "If you are traveling on I-95 near Fayetteville, then stop, take a break and visit with us."
To participate in the parade, Mr. Kobisky advises that volunteers should wear traditional Ukrainian attire - at a minimum an embroidered shirt for men or embroidered blouse for women. However, if readers can come in full Ukrainian outfits, that is encouraged. There are plans also for the group to perform a Ukrainian song.
The festival takes place in the center of town, which will be closed to traffic.
To volunteer for participation in the Ukrainian contingent, or for more information, readers may contact Mr. Kobisky at home at (910) 822-3177 or at work at (910) 396-2050.
Mr. Kobisky noted that Ukraine was the International Folk Festival's host country in 1994, when 45,000 people attended and, thus, were exposed to the beauty of Ukrainian culture.
The hosting of the festival, he added, was a huge endeavor, but "now our local population knows Ukraine and its people.
Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, September 19, 2004, No. 38, Vol. LXXII
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