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FSCA Christmas Dinner

by Glen McPherson

christmasDinner

Once again, the FSCA played host to hundreds of guests in celebration of the holiday season. More than 250 FSCA members and guests enjoyed a wonderful Christmas dinner at the Canadian National Arts Centre on December 16.

Upon entering the hall, we were greeted by the sounds of violin music as the "Four Fortes" youth orchestra played. Shortly after they finished and as everyone took their seats, a youth choir ensemble from the Artistic Excellence Centre of the Secondary School "De la Salle" began singing Christmas carols. The "Harmonia" choir, composed of DFAIT and CIC employees, also sang occasionally through the night. Neil Swain, MC for the evening, supplied additional entertainment as he raffled off more than 40 prizes. The wide variety of entertainment was enjoyed by all. The buffet style dinner was also wonderful with plenty to eat for everyone. The wine at each table was great, as we were fortunate enough to have received the support of the Wine Association of Canada and its members, who graciously donated the wine.

This year was particularly special, as the FSCA had the pleasure of inviting the Honourable Jean Chretien to share in the evening. Prime Minister Chretien warmly praised Canadian Foreign Service Officers and noted the unique challenges they and their families face. He stated that he had, on numerous occasions, benefited from the services of Canadian diplomats in the course of his travels and was appreciative of their hard work. He concluded his remarks by thanking the Foreign Service Officers and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Additional speakers during the evening included Mrs. Judy Wiesinger, President of the FSCA, and Mr. Gaetan Lavertu, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. They took the opportunity presented by the dinner to discuss the difficulties encountered by Foreign Service Officers and their families. They also passed along their best wishes for the holidays and the upcoming year.

As expected, the evening was a great success due to the hard work of the FSCA executive committee volunteers who organized the evening. Many thanks go out to the numerous individuals and organizations that contributed time and resources to make the event such a success!