A capacity crowd gathered at St. Anthony's Parish Hall in Rama to celebrate Canada's 151st Birthday on Canada Day.
The Canada Day Program began with the singing of O Canada as everyone held their hand flags high.
Mayor Darrell Dutchak welcomed those in attendance, especially the Filipino Community, the focus of this year's celebration.
Mary Kowalyshyn, emcee, introduced Star Relatado, explaining that “the Relatado family was the very first Filipino Family that came to our community by purchasing a home in Invermay and becoming very active parishioners at St. Anthony's Church.”
Kowalyshyn said a lasting friendship soon developed, with many more Filipino families coming into the area.
“It’s important that we as Canadians learn more about the culture of the Philippines,” she said. Relatado explained the many aspects of the Filipino culture, using a wide variety of items in her display. Of great interest was the "kumot", a multipurpose blanket.
Those in attendance sampled Filipino food which Relatado had prepared, followed by the opportunity to enjoy singing done by a group of young Filipino children. The Cabungcal sisters of Invermay, Gwen and Clouie, performed a Filipino dance.
Part two of the celebration was presented in both official languages of Canada. Sponsors were acknowledged and thanked for their support.
The official cutting of the Canada Day cake was done by Star Relatado and Mary and Joe Kowalyshyn, followed by a roast beef banquet.
Music was provided by the Zayshley Band as the dancers “danced the night away.”
Fireworks at dusk were sponsored by Rama Village with a number of positive comments heard, including, "Wow, for a small town, that was very impressive."
A late lunch was served by Rama Golden Jet members.
Many door prize draws were made and dancing went on till midnight, finishing off the Canada Day Celebration for 2018.
