The Flower City Friends Club (FCFC) celebrated Diwaloween, a unique fusion of Diwali and Halloween, on November 3, 2024, at the Paul Pallecshi Recreation Center. The festive evening was attended by over 100 senior members of the club and featured a rich tapestry of songs, dances, skits, and traditional Gidha performances. Achla Kalra’s captivating solo dance performance left the audience mesmerized.
Honoring Veterans and Launching a Fundraising Campaign
In a heartfelt gesture to honor Canada’s veterans, women members of FCFC have knitted Poppy flowers as a tribute to the men and women who sacrificed their lives for the country. Henry Verschuren from the Lorne Scots Regiment was the chief guest of the event, launching the FCFC fundraising campaign aimed at supporting veterans by selling the handmade poppies. He spoke eloquently, reminding the seniors of the incredible sacrifices made by Canada’s servicemen and women and extended a warm invitation to visit the Lorne Scots museum in downtown Brampton.
Regional Councillor Paul Vicente praised FCFC’s dedication to both cultural and community service. “The efforts of the Flower City Friends Club truly embody the spirit of unity and cultural celebration. Their initiatives, including this fundraising drive for our veterans, are both inspiring and commendable.”
Kamal Khera, MP and Minister, emphasized the importance of cultural events in enriching community life. “Cultural celebrations like Diwaloween bring people together, strengthen bonds, and create a vibrant community spirit. I am especially proud of FCFC’s initiative to support our veterans,” she said, appreciating the fundraising campaign.
Gurbax Malhi, Special Guest, added, “FCFC has always been a beacon of positive energy and service. The dedication of the members to both celebrating culture and giving back to the community is extraordinary.”
Entertainment and Enjoyment for All
Members enjoyed an evening filled with vibrant performances, heartfelt speeches, and delicious food. The event highlighted the essence of togetherness and joy, combining the flavors of traditional Diwali treats with a festive Halloween twist.
Gian Paul, Chairperson of FCFC, expressed his gratitude: “Our club is built on the foundation of cultural pride and community service. I am immensely thankful to our members for their unwavering support, and I applaud everyone who made this evening a grand success, especially those who contributed to the veterans’ fundraiser.”
The event concluded with a sense of accomplishment, unity, and a shared commitment to honoring Canada’s heroes. The FCFC community left inspired and filled with joy, looking forward to continuing their impactful work in the future.