EDMONTON (NP) – The Ukrainian National Federation (UNF) branch in Edmonton celebrated their 70th Anniversary the weekend of October 25 with an impressive programme that included exhibits, award presentations, entertainment, a classy banquet and a lively town hall meeting with branch members and representatives of the UNF National Executive.

Festivities began on Friday evening with a Wine & Cheese reception at the UNF Hall at which an impressive collection of photographs tracing the branchs 70-year history was on display. The more formal part of the programme included presentation of special UNF Anniversary pins to Honourary members of the UNF Edmonton Branch, as well as past presidents of the Branch, by Roy Kostuk, the National President of the UNF, Diana Bryk-Grabinsky, Western VP, and George Yopyk, Branch President. This was followed by some lively entertainment featuring Vasyl Popadiuk, whose virtuoso performance on the violin left the audience breathless, as well as the talented and energetic Vohon and Volya dance ensembles.

The formal banquet on Saturday night was held at the Chateau Louis conference centre and was sold out well in advance. Gene Zwozdesky, Albertas Minister of Community Development, personally conveyed the congratulations and best wishes of the Alberta government, while Janice Melnychuk did the same on behalf of the City of Edmonton.

Keynote speaker at the banquet was Walter Kish, President of The New Pathway. His rousing and often humorous speech focused on the experiences of Ukrainians in Canada and the many successes, achievements and contributions they have made to all facets of life in this country.

The entertainment that followed included the dynamic violin artistry of Wasyl Popadiuk, the inspiring voices of the Dnipro choir, and the incomparable energy and professionalism of the Cheremosh dance ensemble.

A Sunday brunch at the Chateau Louis was followed by a lively open meeting in the afternoon between the local members of the UNF Branch and executive members of the UNF and New Pathways Board of Directors. A number of local members emphasized the need for better communications and financial support from the National Executive. A lot of opinions and ideas were exchanged on the need for change in the organizations overall priorities and administrative practices and policies.

Overall, there was a general consensus that the weekend was an overwhelming success, and a good example for other branches to emulate in their own upcoming anniversary celebrations.