Calgary
Sig. Renzo Facca, Pres.
Fogolâr Furlan di Calgary
22 Westview Drive S.W.
Calgary, AB T3C 2R7
Tel: (403) 293-0366
Fax: 255-2910
The Fogolâr Furlan di Calgary enjoyed another very positive year in 2005. We continued to grow, not only in our membership but also in the number and quality of activities we have undertaken. In the last few years, we have worked towards attracting first generation Canadians into the Fogolâr. This is still our primary objective and while we have had some success, we will continue to work towards this goal in coming years.
Our Annual General Meeting was held on February 8, 2005. As always, the attendance was excellent. One of our major accomplishments in 2005, and a clear sign of the renewal we are experiencing, is the preparation of new by-laws, the first in over 30 years. The by-laws introduce a new category of membership, that of Associate Member. The by-laws were ratified by our members at the General Meeting and a new Board of Directors was elected for two-year terms.
The Festa Friulana was held on March 12. This is a very popular event and 188 people attended. The foods we serve are traditionally Friulan, with pasta and bean soup, cotecchino, brovada, stew, polenta, cheese and salad. The disc jockey “T42” provided the music and the dance floor was busy. The late night snack consisted of crostoli and many baked goods brought by our members. It was an excellent evening thanks to our many volunteers.
On April 3, we celebrated the Fičste Dal Popul Furlan. Approximately 50 people attended. A detailed presentation was made outlining our goals for a “Sagra” to be held in the future. The children did a number of crafts which they proudly displayed to their parents and grandparents. We also had a bocce tournament where the older generation partnered with the younger generation. A light meal concluded the activities for the day.
A Volunteer Appreciation Lunch was held on May 1, 2005. The lunch was to thank the valuable work of our many volunteers. None of our events could be held without the work, cooperation and support of our members who value and appreciate the Fogolâr and the work that it does.
Two members of the Board of Directors attended the Fogolârs Federation of Canada meeting in Hamilton, in May, and in Ottawa, in November. The president attended both and he was accompanied by a different director at each meeting. Giving different people the opportunity to attend this meeting is important as it increases the general understanding of the work that the Federation does for the Fogolârs in Canada.
The Fogolâr entered the computer age with the purchase of a laptop and multi-function printer/copier/fax machine.
Our Social Committee continued to do great work throughout the year, organizing a number of activities for our members, including the very successful Senior and Youth Golf Tournament held on June 25. There was even a bocce tournament organized by those members who did not want to play golf but wanted to be in attendance. A steak and trout dinner followed the tournament.
The summer months are a time for picnics. The Fogolâr Furlan rented a coach to take a group from Calgary to Edmonton for our sister city’s annual picnic on July 10. As always, Edmonton organized a wonderful picnic. Our Stampede Breakfast was held on July 17. For the first time in many years we went to the lovely Bowness Park in northwest Calgary. The Friulani-Alpini picnic was held on August 7 just south of Calgary. The group from Edmonton came down for the day, which is an annual tradition. We had an excellent turnout and a beautiful day. Games were organized for the children, including a watermelon eating contest and a pignata, which make wonderful opportunities for great photographs.
For the first time ever, a day-long Senior Bus Tour was organized. Out seniors went to Waterton Lake National Park in August. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate but activities were planned for the journey and everyone shared a convivial atmosphere. We will do other Senior Bus Tours in future years and explore a different part of our beautiful province.
New issues of “Cjantinsi in place”, our newsletter, come out on a regular basis over the year. This newsletter goes to most Friulians in Calgary and in the surrounding area. Membership is not required to receive the newsletter. It is a wonderful way of keeping in touch, sharing information and keeping everyone informed of when our activities are being held.
At the end of November, the children and grandchildren of our members enjoyed Babbo Natale. We had 60 children and many adults. It is a fun-filled day for everyone. The children did crafts and games before Santa’s arrival. Many photographs were taken as children waited with baited breath for their turn to talk to Santa Claus. A lovely meal was served at the end of the day. Several members of the Fogolâr Furlan participated in the activities of the Settimana della Lingua Italiana held at the University of Calgary. There were films, a concert and presentations.
The Fogolâr Furlan di Calgary made several donations in 2005. Eleven charitable organizations each received $1,000. The Canadian Red Cross also received $3,000 for the Tsunami Relief effort and this amount was matched by the Canadian Government.
Another significant decision in 2005 was the commitment of $40,000 towards a post-secondary scholarship endowment. The criteria for the scholarship will be worked out in early 2006. This is an incredible legacy for the Fogolâr Furlan di Calgary, one that is a testament to our hard work and belief in community. This endowment is something that we can all be proud of for many, many years to come.