Ya Hala – A Successful Fundraiser
Posted by Manon Mitchell
On the evening of September 30th, just over 200 people, including many children, gathered in the Dance Hall of the Alexandra Centre Society to experience many aspects of Syrian Culture. The place was a buzz with activity and the aromas of the food made you feel like you were transported to an exotic country.
Performers, including our own Rotarian Ghada AlAtrash shared their creative talents on stage. Aya Mhanna playing the Oud (The oud is a pear-shaped stringed instrument with 11 or 12 strings; it looks like a lute however it lacks and has a smaller neck) just mesmerized the audience.
Many women sat patiently as they watched the artistry of the henna painter, beautiful images slowly unfolding on their hands and arms. We were all introduced to the Dabke which is an Arabic dance which combines circle dance and line dancing. Many people joined the Syrian Women’s club in this lively and joyous dance.
Many women sat patiently as they watched the artistry of the henna painter, beautiful images slowly unfolding on their hands and arms. We were all introduced to the Dabke which is an Arabic dance which combines circle dance and line dancing. Many people joined the Syrian Women’s club in this lively and joyous dance. 
Both Global and CTV covered the event from different perspectives and the reports were aired on the news both Friday night and Saturday. You can view the individual reports by clicking on these links:People were very generous at the event which raised $7,569.10 for Syrian newcomers to Calgary. Twenty five percent (25%) will be donated to the Rotary Club of Calgary North for the establishment of scholarships for post-secondary students who have arrived from Syrian, and seventy five percent (75%) to the Syrian Women’s club of Calgary for more welcome kits and supplies for Syrian newcomers.
Perhaps the most important part of the evening was the breaking of barriers between Syrian newcomers and Calgarians as well stood there shoulder to shoulder, enjoying the human experience of sharing food, music and culture. What an awesome evening!A special thank you to the Syrian Women’s club, Cliff Tyminski, Robb Liebel, Gary Bains (Calgary North), Terri Holland (Calgary Sarcee), Kurt Kowalchuk & Ghada AlAtrash (Calgary Downtown) and our non-rotarian volunteers, Deb (Barb Young’s daughter) & her friend Rob, and Simon (Kurt’s son).