Consulate General Calgary celebrated the 239th anniversary of American Independence on July 2, 2015 at the Consul General’s residence in Calgary. This annual event, held the afternoon prior to the kick-off to the Calgary Stampede, has become a tradition in Calgary where almost 500 of the Consulate’s closest Canadian friends come together in their cowboy and cowgirl best to not only celebrate Independence Day, but also the incredible relationship between the United States and Canada.
This year’s celebration marks the last year for Consul General Kujawinski to celebrate American Independence in Calgary. After this tour, he is departing the Foreign Service to move back to his hometown of Chicago and spend time with his young family while writing his new book. During his farewell speech, the Consul General shared the fond memories he and his family had during his time in Calgary. “We helped American citizens, we increased bilateral trade, we supported cultural and academic exchanges, political dialogue, economic opportunity, and minority and LGBT rights.” Kujawinski went on to say, “This place will forever be a highlight of my life, because of the fascinating work I’ve done and because of how graciously Nancy and I have been welcomed.” After a farewell “Yahoo” and cake cutting, the party was underway. Guests enjoyed a multi-cultural variety of food and drink including fish tacos, hamburger sliders, Apple Pie Moonshine, and “soda shoppe” style beverages, naming just a few crowd pleasers.
Other participants in the event include the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, the Honorable Lois Mitchell, Minister of National Defence and Minister of Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney, Alberta Minister of Finance and President of the Alberta Treasury Board, Joe Ceci, and Calgary Mayor, Naheed Nenshi.
