Jane Byrne Re-Elected Welsh Society President
By EIFION WILLIAMS
VANCOUVER - Jane Byrne was re-elected President of the Vancouver Welsh Society at the Society’s Annual General Meeting held on December 8. Also re-elected were Vice-President Barrie Hancock, Treasurer Gaynor Evans and Secretary Eifion Williams.
The other Executive Members are Membership Secretary Heather Davies, Newsletter Editor David Llewelyn Williams and Members-at-Large Eric Davies, Alan Hunter, Mary Lewis and Lyn Owens-Whalen. The Past President is Tecwyn Roberts.
The President reported to the membership on the many successful events held during 2004, especially those relating to the 75th Anniversary of the Cambrian Hall. There were also many donations received for the Cambrian Hall Roof Fund.
Byrne reported that the roof fund is steadily increasing as a result of these events and the generosity of members and friends. It was noted with gratitude that a $500 donation had been received from the Puget Sound Welsh Society.
The President also thanked Barrie Hancock for his efforts in successfully applying for a grant from Provincial Gaming Funds. A new application has been submitted for a matching grant for renovations and the roof repair.
On December 11 the Society held its annual Christmas dinner, this year combined with a mulled wine evening. An excellent turkey dinner, catered by Jordan’s, with mouth-watering desserts contributed by Society members Nerys Haqq, Sybil Jamieson, Gaynor Evans, Heather Davies and Jane Byrne, was followed by some convivial seasonal entertainment.
The program was innovatively arranged by Neville Thomas. Carols and readings reflected the ways in which different ethnic groups celebrate Christmas. The Dylan Thomas classic A Child’s Christmas in Wales was read by David Llewelyn Williams. Other readers were Kathy Thomas, Brian Granville, Russell Roberts, Gareth Prytherch and John Pritchard. The communal carol singing was led by Nerys Haqq, accompanied by Lucy Sorenson.
The event was deemed a great success by all who attended. The Society thanks all those who contributed to the evening’s success. Special thanks go to Gaynor Evans for her efforts in organizing and planning for this most enjoyable evening.
The next major event for the Welsh Society will be the St. David’s Day Dinner on March 5 at the Cambrian Hall. Anyone wishing to attend should contact Gaynor Evans at (604) 271-3134 as soon as possible as tickets are limited. There will also be a traditional gathering on the evening of March 1, St. David’s Day, in the Red Dragon lounge. Cawl Cenin (leek soup) and Welsh Cakes will be served.
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