Laurel Tombazzi is widely recognized for her tireless efforts to preserve and promote Eastern European heritage across Ohio and beyond. A proud Carpatho-Rusyn and Hungarian-American, Laurel is the Founder and Chairperson of the Eastern European Congress of Ohio (EECO), an organization dedicated to recognizing and uniting Ohio residents of Eastern European descent.

Under her leadership, significant milestones have been achieved, including:

• April is designated as Eastern European Month in Ohio.
• The creation of the Eastern European specialty license plate.
• Governor Mike DeWine established and signed the Ohio Commission on Eastern European Affairs into law in 2023.

Laurel’s contributions to Carpatho-Rusyn and Eastern European culture span decades. As a young performer, she danced with the Kruzhok Ensemble and later founded and directed the Karpato-Rus Ensemble, preserving traditional Carpatho-Rusyn music and dance. In recognition of her leadership, Laurel received the Freedom Award from the American Nationalities Movement in 2023.
For the past 12 years, Laurel has served as the Master of Ceremonies for the Simply Slavic Festival, where her enthusiasm and dedication have made her a beloved and integral part of the event. Her selection as Grand Marshal honors her outstanding achievements and lifelong commitment to cultural advocacy and community engagement.

“We are thrilled to name Laurel Tombazzi as our 2025 Grand Marshal,” said Simply Slavic Board President John Slanina. “Her passion for preserving Slavic and Eastern European traditions, combined with her incredible leadership and advocacy, has made a lasting impact not just on the Slavic community but on the cultural fabric of Ohio. She embodies everything Simply Slavic stands for!”

Simply Slavic is a nonprofit organization honoring Slavic heritage through events, educational programming, and community engagement. The annual festival draws thousands to downtown Youngstown each June to enjoy Slavic music, food, dance, and culture. For more information about Simply Slavic, the 2025 Festival, or the Home for the SLAVidays event, visit SimplySlavic.org or contact info@simplyslavic.org. Let’s keep the traditions going – TOGETHER!

Vendor Opportunities Now Open

Simply Slavic is now accepting applications for food and merchandise vendors for the 2025 festival! This is a unique opportunity for businesses, artisans, and community organizations to showcase their Slavic-inspired cuisine, handcrafted goods, and cultural merchandise to thousands of enthusiastic festivalgoers.

By becoming a vendor, you will:

• Gain exposure at Youngstown’s premier Slavic heritage event
• Connect with a diverse audience passionate about cultural traditions
• Be part of an exciting music, dance, food, and community engagement weekend. Simply Slavic welcomes vendors offering:
  • Authentic, unique Slavic foods –Zapiekanka (Polish Pizza), grilled meats, Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes with Sweet Cheese), even Slavic-style Fries!
  • Handmade crafts & cultural items – Traditional folk art, apparel, imported goods, and Slavic-themed merchandise.
  • Educational & Community Booths – Organizations promoting Slavic heritage, genealogy, and cultural preservation.

Interested vendors can receive application details, booth fees, and guidelines by requesting more information at info@simplyslavic.org

Let’s keep the traditions going – TOGETHER!

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