I am an original Tarnavian – I was born in Tarnava, I married here and I work here. Why did I stay? The answer is simple – I love Tarnava and its people.  That is how I was brought up. My parents always said that each stone weighs the most at its own spot.  I ran for mayor because I believed that there is a lot to be done. I’ve been mayor for two terms now. I work hard to justify people’s trust and we all work for the best of Tarnava.

We had dreams of an open stage. Our community center was in need of renovation for many years and we have a lot of holidays to celebrate; there is a lot that the kids, students, and amateur groups of Tarnava to exhibit.  When the June First Association announced the Participate, Donate, Change Program supported by America for Bulgaria Foundation, we knew exactly what Tarnava would apply for.  We were very happy when our idea was awarded – 2,500 leva.  After that the real work began and many people helped with whatever they could: materials, equipment, money, volunteer work.  I am grateful for each piece of advice, for each penny. But you know, I am most grateful that the community came together. You can’t measure that in money – it’s priceless.

We use the stage year-round – come winter, come summer.  Here we light the Christmas tree, here we celebrate the St. Trifon’s day of winemaking in February. Our most important event is in August – the folklore festival called “Eco from Your Birthplace”. It will be its 5th edition in 2017. Last year it expanded beyond municipal borders – we had over 400 participants from Ruse, Pleven, Vidin – from all over Bulgaria.

Encouraged by the success of the first project, we applied and won a second grant and created a small museum corner in our community center – a typical Tarnava room from the 19th century.  It is not just a décor – we gather there to teach our children various traditional crafts and just to talk. Our village is alive. We keep our traditions…and we never stop dreaming.

Gabriela Ralovska, Mayor, Tarnava Village, Vratsa District