Story Arcs Intersect

          Clara Matynka, our CAMZ, was a senior at Kensington High during academic year 1946-47.  Gene Zdrojewski was back from the war, sleeping on the floor in Casey's room, getting to know his new Mom, pressing pants at a drycleaning establishment, and looking forward to work at the Buffalo Steel plant, thanks to the good offices of his Uncle Stanley.

          They were both active in St. Luke's parish youth groups, as were their parents.  Singing Polish Carols at the old folks' home was a favorite activity and a big deal.  Just now I've edited an earlier post of a photo of a group on such an outing, from one of Marty's two new cartons.  I had guessed 1947.  In fact it was Christmas 1946, according to the church bulletin from late winter 1947, saved by Clara with her high-school yearbooks.  

Photomontage from the St. Luke's
"Youth Council Monthly,"
reporting on the Christmas trip
to the Wende Home.

Gene on the left, Clara in the back row, their friends,
including their friend Father Tomiak.

          "The Churchmice, dressed in the colorful costumes of the 'Górale,' presented their  'jaselka'  in song, at Homes for the Aged in both Hamburg and Alden, N.Y.  Sodalists of St. Luke school traveled on both occasions, and also presented their dramatic version of the Nativity scene.  The 'Górale' carolled from home to home during an entire week of the Christmas season, spreading Christmas spirit and cheer.  Those who were privileged to hear them will always remember the traditional Polish carols."

         I bet those were really, really good times.