By Consuelo (Chit) E. Munar

The Filipino Calgarian Seniors Club  (FCSC) celebrated its 34th anniversary with a spring gala celebration  at the Polish Canadian Cultural centre  last March 17, 2017.  About 220 attendees graced the occasion including   members of other senior organizations in Calgary. It was an eventful  evening of delightful fellowship  and camaraderie  of the Filipino community.

The program commenced with the singing of the national anthems led by the FCSC officers followed by the opening remarks of the newly elected president, Celestino Bautista, an unassuming and principled guy.  He remarked,”I am humbled by this great opportunity that has been bestowed upon me, however, I am also excited by what opportunities lay ahead.  Thank you to my fellow officers for helping me in my growth and new beginning as President.  I am excited by what we can achieve by working together in good faith, cooperation and unity.”

One of the significant  highlights of the program was the recognition of octogenarian members of the club, namely: Constante (Stan) Collado, Felizardo Emirenciana, Remedios Garcellano, Leonora Guanzon and Mario Reuto.  Special recognition  was also accorded to Mr. and Mrs. Felomino Guanzon for reaching a milestone on the occasion of their 62nd wedding anniversary.  Both were tremendously happy for the special attention and best wishes they received.

A group of nine (9) talented couples performed a well-received performance of Tango Royale, the high point of the program’s entertainment. Led by the ever-skillful and graceful choreographer, Wilson Danu, an associate member of the club, he painstakingly mentored the senior dancers for weeks to their  great level of confidence to perform.

The spring gala of the Filipino Calgarian Seniors Club was also a celebration for members of the club who turned a milestone in their lives in the months of January, February, March and April.  Each of the celebrants were presented with a lovely, colourful  rose.  Ube (purple yam) and mocha-flavoured cakes  donated by a few generous  club members  were distributed and shared with guests and attendees.

The ever-able Vice-President  of the club, Joven Bautista, hosted the evening’s event.

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