Sacred Heart Club revels in Polish heritage with Dyngus Day celebration

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Jim Pinckney is crowned Dyngus Day king at the Sacred Heart Club this evening. Last year’s king Richard Glass puts the crown on Pinckney, a long-time active member and volunteer at the club.

Pinckney, a retired corrections officer, enjoys the celebration of Polish heritage at the Sacred Heart Club, but he said members don’t have to be Polish to join. The non-profit organization donates to veterans and other community organizations.

Pinckney was picked king because of all he does for the Sacred Heart Club, said JT Thomas, the club vice president.

Amy Silkowski is applauded after being announced as this year’s Dyngus Day queen. Last year’s king and queen, Richard and Kirsten Glass, are at right.

Silkowski’s husband David is a past king. She joined about five years ago. She assisted her husband in making the lazy pierogis for this year’s Dyngus Day feast.

Amy said the people are the big draw at the Sacred Heart Club.

“We’re like a big family,” she said.

She was praised for starting a euchre night at Sacred Heart every other Friday evening. She and her husband also repainted “the pit,” an area that is popular for celebrations.

JT Thomas served as the deejay and emcee of the Dyngus Day bash. He played music by Bobby Vinton, “The Polish Prince.”

There was lots of Polish food served including Golumpkis – Polish cabbage rolls that are stuffed with a mixture of beef, pork, rice and seasoning.

The Sacred Heart Club welcomed about 100 people for the Dyngus Day party, with many people wearing red in honor of the Polish celebration. The party started at 3 this afternoon.

Pussy willows were also available. In the Dyngus Day tradition, boys sprinkle water on the girls who then tap the boys with pussy willows as a way of flirting.