Sixth graders compete for Ukraine in California school's "Olympics"

NORTH HILLS, Calif. - The blue-and-yellow Ukrainian flag once again flew over the "Olympic Games" at a San Fernando Valley-area grade school.

Sixth grade students at Valley Presbyterian School in North Hills represented Ukraine in their own traditional Olympics which are held every four years, simultaneously with the international Olympic Games.

Each class represented a different country and learned about its history and culture in preparation of the opening ceremonies, international program and competitive games held on June 7. Wearing blue-and-yellow t-shirts adorned with the tryzub, Ukraine's national emblem, and waving flags, the students marched behind a Ukrainian banner carried by students in authentic costumes.

Earlier in the year, Shirley Deedon's students were taught about Ukraine's history, culture, geography and traditions by Tina Zacharczuk. The students made pysanky, which they will cherish for years to come. Mrs. Zacharczuk treated them to a taste of Ukrainian food, which was devoured eagerly.

In preparation of the International Program portion of the day, the pre-teens enthusiastically practiced Ukrainian dancing. They performed a traditional "Pryvit," welcoming the guests with bread and salt, followed by a fast-paced finale in which the boys performed many of the difficult steps that Ukrainians have come to love and appreciate. Many of these graduating sixth graders have reported that the dancing will be one of their fondest memories.

Other nations represented in the event were Tanzania, Israel, Spain, France, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Korea, Lithuania, Germany and the U.S.A.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, July 21, 1996, No. 29, Vol. LXIV

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