(UCPBA) The Ukrainian Business and Professional Association, Windsor Branch, held its 50th Annual Graduates Banquet at Chez Talbot, St Clair College, on Sunday April 28, 2002. Branch President Leisha Nazarewich welcomed 86 members and guests to the banquet and Father Skrumeda gave the invocation.

Dr Myron Hlynka was the guest speaker. He spoke of the history, achievements and people of the organization over the past 50 years. All past presidents in attendance were introduced and the work of Ron Boyer was recognized, as it was during his presidency that the Heritage Awards were introduced. Ron was also instrumental in implementing a bingo program that has been the major source of funding for the Heritage Awards over the past several years.

Myron also reviewed the major financial contributions that UCPBA has made throughout the years to churches and community organizations. Some of the recipients include Hotel Dieu Grace Hospital, Windsor Regional Hospital, Regional Childrens Centre, Hospice of Windsor, Windsor Library, Childs Place, St Vladimir Institute and Ukrainian dance groups in Windsor and Chatham. In addition, scholarships were first offered in the 1970s to students enrolled in the Ukrainian language program at the University of Windsor. Unfortunately, this program is no longer available. However, UCPBAs philanthropy has raised the profile of the organization within the community.

In conjunction with his talk, Myron also set up a very interesting display of photos and scrapbooks for all to enjoy at their leisure.

Dennis Galay, Chair of the Graduates Committee introduced Melanie Kostyniuk and presented the University of Windsor graduate (B Ed) with a small gift from the organization. Eva Perduk, Chair of the Heritage Awards Committee, introduced this years recipients and presented each of them with a cheque for $500. This years winners were: Genevieve Gorski (History, Trent University); Daria Horbal (Biological Studies, University of Windsor); Natalia Kielbasa (French and Geography, University of Windsor); Iryna Kis (Business Administration, University of Windsor); Michael Lozynsky (Sociology and Communication Journalism, University of Windsor); Taisa Petruk (Fine Arts Dance, York University); Oksana Pikush (International Relations, University of Windsor); Toma Regenbogen (Science, University of Windsor).

UCPBA started distributing the Heritage Awards in 1990 and to date 43 students have received awards. We wish all of the students success as they continue their studies.

Following the presentations, Iryna Kis and Oksana Pikush entertained the banquet with a short musical program. The afternoon ended with a raffle. Prizewinners include Mike Bobbie (2), Nel Yaworsky, Taras Cebrynsky and the grand prize of a TV was won by Darleen Swintak.

St Clair College provided a delicious meal with two cakes. A good time was had by all as we celebrated our 50th Anniversary.