After a brief stop in Sabinov to visit the renowned Oscar-winning "Shop on the Main Street" and the statue of the unforgettable Jozef Króner, we continued our journey to Jakubová Voľa, the birthplace of Stephanie’s grandmother on her father's side.

The warm welcome from the Mayor of Jakubová Voľa and the local folklore ensemble brought sincere emotion to Stephanie’s face. Pierogi, poppy-seed cakes, cabbage cakes, and other local specialties, lovingly prepared by the skilled women of Jakubová Voľa since early morning, evoked memories of Stephanie’s childhood, her grandmother, and her late mother. It had been since her mother’s passing that Stephanie had last tasted pierogi—until her arrival in Jakubová Voľa.

The heartfelt moment was deepened by a short film prepared by genealogist Michal Rázus, depicting the birthplace, the journey of 20-year-old Verona Zsilka to America, and Stephanie’s ancestors. Then, the biggest surprise followed.