“ A FAMILY AFFAIR" TEGSA’s  2nd. ANNIVERSARY DANCE
 
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27th, May,2006:These three words – elegant, entertaining and enjoyable – could appropriately be used to describe TEGSA’s 2nd, Anniversary Dance. A capacity gathering of more then 230 members and guests graced the festive evening at the Empire Banquet Hall in Scarborough. The hall was subtly decorated with balloons and banners in the TEGSA colours, creating an ambiance of warmth. The tone for the evening was evident as members walked in to the sounds of soft piped
music. The cocktail hour was a Happy Hour when members mingled and were treated to a variety plate of hors d’oeuvres, served at their tables.

As a preamble to the ‘grace before meals’, Jean Andrade said a special prayer – “…make our lives together as a family meaningful, fulfilling and enjoyable”, she said. “We are blessed to be part of such a wonderful family, such a great and precious group of people. We ask you Lord to guide the new Executive throughout the year, to face the challenges ahead. Bless with wisdom and confidence the members so that they can work successfully towards achieving their goals”

The scrumptious eight course Chinese meal, which catered to all palettes, was different from the normal and was commended as a very welcome change. The organizing committee evenwent to fine detail to ensure that there were two prizes , when members broke open their fortune cookies. Soon after dinner the band- FOCUS – played the Anniversary Waltz and the dancing opened with President Al and his wife Jean. The floor didn’t take long to be crowded. The band, who were in their element, were eager to please and so was the D.J. GODFATHER.

The highlight of the evening was the attendance of our chief guest – MPP for Scarborough Rouge, Hon. Bas Balkasoon. After a very appropriate introduction by President Al, who praised our guest for doing our community proud, he thanked him for his help and guidance when the association was being first formed. Al enlightened members on Mr. Balkasoon’s major contribution as a municipal councilor for nearly 20 years and now as a very effective MPP.

In his eloquent speech, Mr.Balkasoon brought greetings from the Govt. of Ontario, on behalf of the Premier Dalton McGuinty. His words of wisdom were very stimulating and he emphasized the Govt’s strong commitment to the seniors. He encouraged members to get involved and support the political process in the province. He was very happy to meet and mingle with many of his constituents in the gathering.

In his welcome address, President Al Andrade, reiterated his theme for the next two years - ‘Working together as a family’. “We must do all we can to develop our Association’s family spirit and enthusiasm and a desire to share our many blessings. We must then bring these ingredients into a position of organized action, which we do so well”, he said. He commended the founding members for their tireless efforts and remarkable contribution in laying the foundation of TEGSA. He acknowledged them individually, as many of them were present at the function. The president also extended a special welcome to the Presidents of our sister senior associations. He expressed the possibility of working together in some projects. Present were. Zulema D’Souza, Pat D’Cruz, Tony Fernandes and Edmund Menezes. “One of the main keys to the future of our Association is our ability to attract and develop dedicated members to our executive.” said Al. “I feel privileged to be working with a dedicated group of professional men and women who readily give of their time and talents for the Association”. He then introduced, for the first time, members of his Executive and their spouses.

The ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake by Al and Jean followed, to the tune of “Congratulations”, struck by the band. More then 20 raffle, door and dance prizes were given away, thanks to the generosity of the Executive and some members. The two M.C.’s, Vicky D’Souza and Charles Fernandes, did a remarkable job in keeping the spirit lively. The social committee headed by Vicky D’Souza and assisted by Charles Fernandes, Joan Menezes and Dorothy Fernandes have to be complimented for a job very well done.

By: Uvy Lopes