The Queen's representative in Manitoba, Lt.-Gov. Janice Filmon, invited all Manitobans to attend the annual New Year's Levee at the Manitoba Legislative Building.
Each year the UELAC Manitoba Branch is issued a special invitation. Those of us who are able to attend are introduced to Their Honours Janice and Gary Filmon shortly before the general public are admitted. This introduction takes place in the Blue Room, the historic receiving room for royalty and other guests to the lieutenant-governor's office. We are individually announced and then greeted by Their Honours. The Filmons are always very gracious and each person is made to feel special.
The members of UELAC Manitoba Branch who are fortunate enough to have period dress are encouraged to wear same and add colour to the festivities which this year included a magician, face painters, the Ecco Singers, Winnipeg Police Service Choir, Winnipeg Police Pipe Band, members of the Manitoba Living History Society and complimentary sleigh rides on the Legislative building grounds. Scouts and Girl Guides were on hand to serve light refreshments to the crowd.
It is certainly a wonderful way to spend New Year's Day afternoon.
