Absolutely love this video about Osturna, the village of the Smolenyaks hail from. My fellow Rusyns will love this.

Osturna was selected for historic preservation way back under the days of Communism, so even today, it’s ridiculously charming.

Aside from the mayor’s name, I recognize all the surnames as classic Osturnite. They do a lovely job of capturing the spirit of the place and include our music, homes, and even village korj!

Should you wish to visit, check out Thom Kolton in the video. Though he’s speaking Slovak, he’s American and he runs an inviting pension in Osturna.

Warhol Soup Can Chess Set – The Rusyn in me really wants this.

World War II Airman identified after 70 years to be buried in Clearwater Saturday – What a lovely way to start the day. If you have a couple of minutes, please watch this about a viral video that happened to capture the homecoming of one of my soldiers who was buried this past weekend.

Welcome home, 1st Lt. George W. Betchley. Honored to have researched your family.

Photo Credit: Screenshot from Televíkend video about Osturna