30th June -
Nostalgic eve at the Club
with Mr. Charles
Bezzina...
As part of the annual celebrations
of the titular feast of Hal Balzan, you are invited to an evening at the
St. Gabriel Band Club from historian Mr. Carmel Bezzina, which he will
get us to live almost 40 years ago, 1968. This evening, named
'A Nostalgic Eve' is an opportunity to revive the memories of
those villagers that worked hard in Hal Balzan, in our community and for
the feast of The Annunciation itself. We are not going to see only
pictures or a powerpoint, but we are going to hear their voice... from
the Rediffusion... the local medium of 40 years ago. Do you
remember Mgr. F.S. Zahra and Con. Rev Karm Sciberras, 2 ex-Parish
Priests? Then what about Rev. John Dimech who died last January? Then
we are going to hear Count B. Manduca, Paul Grima, Abraham the carpinter,
along with other personalities such as Valent Azzopardi, George Muscat (il-landier)
and Carmel Gauci (id-Dingejru). Ġużè Cassar Pullicino, Peppinu Farrugia, Profs.
Ġużè Aquilina, Philip Callus, Gabriel Caruana, Piju Ebejer and Dr. Paul
Cassar. All these personalities will be heard live. Join us at the St.
Gabriel Band Club on Tuesday 30 June at 8.15pm. We will bring memories
back!!
28th June -
Festa Gathering with
Pierre Cordina Music, FREE ENTRANCE!
Grazzi lis-sponsor ta' din l-attivita:
27th June-
BBQ -
FULLY BOOKED - Thanks! Saturday 27th June
2009 was held the traditional BBQ before the festa period. Another
success and a record of people attended this splendid evening. Great
food, and the much awaited singer and comedian Joe Demicoli cheered all
those present at the BBQ night.
25th June -
T-Shirts of the
Feast 2009 arrived at the Club...
€5.00
25th June -
The
St Gabriel Band and the street decorations… preparations at their best.
At the moment, the festa followers are all
hands. Preparations are in full swing. The St. Gabriel Band is
preparing for the musical programme to be held on Thursday 9th
July 2009 while the feast enthusiasts are decorating the streets of Hal
Balzan. The 25th March Pyrotechnic Society is also preparing
the last touches for this year’s fireworks programme. Let’s work hard to
achieve another success in this year’s festa dedicated to Our Lady of
the Annunciation.
Gorg Curmi Puse' during concert by St. Gabriel Band, preparation for the
vocal and instrumental program
held on Thursday 9th July 2009
Georgina & Ryan Abela during concert by St. Gabriel Band, preparation for
the vocal and instrumental program
held on Thursday 9th July 2009
13th June -
Decorated the Facade of the
Church for the Feast.
Photos click here.
Saturday 13th June 2009 the members of St. Gabriel together with people
from Balzan at 6.00am started the work so that the facade of the Church
will be set up. The work started much before today on the lights of the
Church. Lino Borg, John Pullicino, Beli Aguis, Ninu Muscat and others
had worked to pass all the wires needed and decorated the dome and the
steeple. But the most of the work continued today buy the help of a
crane which assisted in setting up the design which decorates the facade
of the Church during the Feast time. Thanks to all who were present o
give a helping hand.
12th
June -
Balzan Night... A month
before the Feast! On
Friday 12th June 2009 it is going to be held the annual Balzan Night at
Balzan Square, a month before the Feast of Annunciation. This is going
to be organized by the cleaning and activity committee of the Local
Council Balzan which the Chairperson is Joe Galea. Food, drinks, tombola
and live entertainment from 7.30pm onwards. Special guest MIKE SPITERI.
Not to be missed!
12th June -
Today a month before the
Feast 2009. Exactly a month for the Feast of the Annunciation in Balzan. The
preparation is very busy right now. We encourage everyone who can give a
helping hand in any way. Let's celebrate another feast in Balzan as our
mother the Annunciation disserves.
11th June -
The last roof of the new hall arrived
at the Club...
9th June -
Arrived at the Club, the
Feast Book 2009.
Tuesday 9th June, arrived at the Club the Feast Book 2009... a month
in advanced. Thanks to John Pullicino, the editor of this
Publication. For another year we can see a Feast book full of
information, articles and photos. This book now will be delivered in
every home in Balzan and donations will be collected for the Feast 2009.
We encourage everyone to be generous like usual. Thanks.
7th June -
Artwork - T-Shirts of the
Feast 2009. Like
every year on the occasion of the Feast of the Annunciation in Balzan we
do the T-Shirt of the Feast. This year the T-Shirt is going to be blue
and front print is going to be the logo of the club. The T-Shirt are going to be arrived at the
Club on 26th June 2009 and are going to be sold for the price of
€5.00. Thanks goes also to the
sponsors of the T-Shirt, which is going to be on the back, which are
Deguara Ironomgery & Bartoline Paints.
25th May -
The preparation for the
Feast 2009 street decoration started.
On Monday 25th May 2009,
members from the St. Gabriel Band Club started decorating the village
streets as the feast is less than 50 days. Everyone is welcome to give
a helping hand. Finally, a big thank you goes to all those who year
after year offer their time in decorating the village streets.
20th May -
The last finishing touches
for the Annual Feast Book. The much awaited Annual Feast
Book is almost ready and in the coming days will be in for printing.
Yes, this publication will be very informative and interesting as
always. The Editor is Mr. John Pullicino. Definitely that John worked
very professionally in order that the Yearly Publication will be another
high level of success. Later on, the Feast Book will be online.
This year it is the 25th year of publication.
23rd May -
Band Service - Gwardamangia
Feast.
Saturday
23rd May the St. Gabriel Band made a service at Gwardamangia
for the Feast of Madonna ta' Fattima. Departed from the Club buy
private at 7.00pm. The Band service started from the Church at 8.00pm and
ended at 11.00pm.
16th May -
EUROVISION live on BIG
SCREEN!
17 photos
click here... The Eurovision BBQ was held on
Saturday 16th May 2009 in the yard of the St. Gabriel Band
Club. Another much awaited activity which lead to another huge
success. Food, drinks and the Eurovision Song Festival on big screen
was the order of the night. Sparklers were on as Chiara’s song ‘What if
we’ was on the big screen. Great performance from Chiara. Definitely,
another success in the Eurovision BBQ.
13th
May - Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning on Wednesday
13th May 2009 at the St. Gabriel Band Club at 8.30am. The Price
is €2.50.
12th May -
Outing for Mother's Day by
the Women's Committee. On Tuesday 12th May 2009, the
Women's Committee is organizing an outing with Tombola for Mother's Day
at the Solana Hotel. Price
€8 which
includes also breakfast. We meet at the mass of 8.30am of the parish.
booking from the Club or phone 21 445840.
10th May -
Balzan Youths F.C.
celebrations.
117 photos
click here...
On Sunday 10th May Balzan Youths F.C. organized the celebrations of the
Champions of the 2nd Division season 2008/2009 and so next year they
will be playing in the 1st Division. The celebrations started at the
ground where the last game was played against Mgarr United, with a great
result of Balzan 5 & Mgarr 0. After a carcade to the ground where Balzan
Youths do there training and the players continued there trip on a large
chariot for the occasion, together with the carcade to the Balzan
square. Stopping every Club in Balzan for a drink and a trophy of the
special occasion. St. Gabriel Band Club of course welcomed the
President, Committee & Players and gave the a nice trophy for this
occasion.
3rd May -
Joe Attard placed 3rd in
red and rose wine competition. The Malta Horticulture Society
founded in 1903 organized The Annual Programme of the Great Spring Show
of Flowers, Vegetables, Fruit and Pot Plants at The San Anton Gardens.
This annual show was packed with creativity, imagination and colours.
Furthermore, the show will include several competitions in embroidery,
lace making, beekeeping, honey, leaf arts, sculpture, fruits,
vegetables, flower arrangements, ornamental plants in pots, wine and
more. The Wine Competition was divided into 4 categories, White wine,
Red wine, Rose’ Wine and Other Fruit wine. Mr. Joe Attard, from Hal
Balzan and ex-Treasurer of The St. Gabriel Band Club placed 3rd
in Red and Rose’ wine. There were more than 35 competitors in each
category. Resources and Rural Minister George Pullicino presented
certificates to the winners. The St Bariel Band Club took part in this
annual show with a vegetable and fruit ornament.
Well done Mr Joe Attard for your success!
3
photos
2nd & 3rd May -
Taking part in the
Horticultural Show at San Anton Gardens. Every
year the Malta Horticultural Society organize - The Greatest Spring Show
of Flowers, Vegetables, Fruit & Pot Plants at San Anton Garden. This
year is going to be on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May 2009. The St.
Gabriel Band Club as usual presented an arrangement of fruit to be
displayed during this show. After the show the arrangement will be
donated to an organization with special needs.
30th April -
A Great Festa Warm Up
2009 - BIG SUCCESS! Yes, it was a big night
celebrating Festa Warm Up 2009! A record of people attended this Festa
Warm Up 2009. Well done goes to Daniel Muscat, Jonathan Vella, Sharon
Aquilina, Jessica Muscat, Renato and Chiara, the Eurovision 2009 Maltese
singer. But well done to Renato, almost an hour singing and sharing up
nice jokes. However, in Festa Warm Up 2009, we are already feeling a
great Festa next July. Come on… lets keep it!
26th April -
Congratulations Balzan
Youths - CHAMPIONS 2nd Division 2008/09. The
Committee of St. Gabriel Band Club Balzan, would like to congratulate
the Team of Balzan Youths which on Sunday 26th April 2009 was declared
as CHAMPIONS of 2nd Division 2008/2009. Well done to the President Mr.
George Borg, Committee, Players & Supporters for all the hard work which
was done. more information about the celebrations activities soon...
26th April -
Blessing of the Club.
5 photos
click here... Sunday 26th
April 2009 was held the annual Blessing of the
St. Gabriel Band Club from Parish Priest and Spiritual Director Rev. Fr.
Calcidon Vassallo. After the prayer, a small party was held between
those members present and the Parish Priest.
25th April -
We took part in the
Marathon of Puttinu Cares.
5 photos
click here... The Youth
Committee San Gabriel took part in Puttinu Cares Marathon 2009 held in
Marsa Grounds between Friday 24th and Sunday 26th April 2009.On Saturday,we played football
between 10pm and midnight during this Marathon. We enjoyed ourselves
running and kicking the ball but the best part of it was that in the end
of the game, we, in the name of the St. Gabriel Band Club presented the
sum of
€210. Definitely this
donation shows the big solidarity our Youth Committee has. The cheque
was presented to the popular ex-international footballer Carmel Busuttil.
In the meantime, we met popular singer Ira Losco and we took a photo
together.
19th' April -
Feast Gear 2009...
The Youth Committee of St. Gabriel Band Club Balzan is going to make the
Feast Gear 2009. These must be ordered before for the price of
€25.
To order your gear, phone Jonathan Falzon 99026420 or Matthew Mifsud
99232232.
19th April -
Happy Birthday to the St.
Gabriel Band Club A.D.1920... 89 years! Happy Birthday to the St.
Gabriel Band Club... 89 years old. It was founded on the 19th
April 1920. The life at the St Gabriel Band Club is still on a high.
Just look on the new building in construction, the activities organized
from time to time and one has to remember that the feast of Our Lady of
the Annunciation is less than 3 months away.
19th April -
Balzan Award 2009 - Mr.
John Pullicino... WELL DONE!
19th April -
Balzan Day, Balzan
Community Day!
15 photos
click here... Sunday 19th May 2009. The Hal
Balzan Day. The Balzan Local Council will celebrate this day with:
> 8.00am Flag ceremony in Bertu Fenech Square.
> 8.30am Holy Mass followed by Balzan Award to Mr. John Pullicino.
> 9.30am Plaque in honour of late Gigi Gauci in the Garden
Roundabout in L-Gherusija Street.
The villagers are urged to attend these
activities. All flag lovers are urged to put up the Maltese flag or the
Hal Balzan flag.
18th April -
Youth from Balzan in the
semifinal... Teen singing challenge! Daniel
Muscat, from Hal Balzan, is contesting the Teen Singing Challenge
Semi-finals which are aired during TV Programme Sas-Sitta on every
Saturday between 2.45pm 6.00pm. Daniel's song named Hero, cover virgin
of the well known singer Mariah Carey. He will be live on Saturday
18
April at 4.00pm. Good Luck DANIEL!
13th April -
Holy Week 2009 - Thanks! 27
photo &
3 video's click
here...
The Central Committee would like to thank all those members involved in
the Holy Week Exhibition 2008 and those who organized the Palm Sunday
Pageant. Another thank you goes to those who took part in this
pageant… Biblical personalities, Roman soldiers, Jews and others.
Thank you to those who visited the Holy Weeek Exhibition. Well done to
all involved in this year Holy Week Activities.
12th April -
Winners Easter Lottery
2009.
Statute of the Risen Lord won by Alan Deguara
(White ticket 004).
Doll won by Lino Ciappara
(Yellow ticket 055). 3
Figolli
won by Michael Zarb
(Yellow ticketr 019).
12th April -
One year from the death of Piju Ebejer. Piju
Ebejer, who died on the 12th of April 2008. Piju, as better known
in our village, was the Treasurer 50 years ago when the St. Gabriel Band
Club bought its actual premises, which two years ago we celebrated the
50 years from the purchase of the Club. Thanks Piju...we will never
forget you! The funeral was held on Monday 14th April 2008 at the
Annunciation Parish Church Balzan, at 8.30am mass.
1st - 10th April -
Holy Week 2009... The Youth Section of The St. Gabriel Band
Club AD 1920 Hal Balzan will be holding its Holy Week Annual Exhibition
‘GHAL
IMHABBITNA MIET FUQ IS-SALIB’
that includes the Last Supper Table and a
marvelous crib that starts from the entrance to Jerusalem to the
crucifix. The biggest attraction is exactly next to the entrance where
a 4ft Last Supper statue is on display. Then, one can see another Last
Supper Display that includes 5 life size statues. Ramon Camilleri McKay
did this. The crib is another of its own attraction. The works were
under the guidance of...
CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE TO READ!
8th April - Two year from
the death of the Pyrotechnic VALENT AZZOPARDI. It
was on Easter
Sunday, 8th April 2007, at around 4.30pm, the death of Valent Azzopardi was announced. He was
the Licensee’ of the St. Gabriel Fireworks Factory and member of the St. Gabriel
Band Club Central Committee. Valent was involved more than 60 years in the
manufacturing of fireworks. His first aim was to manufacture fireworks for our
feast, the festa of the Annunciation of Balzan. Then, as he was very popular of
the good work, a lot of other localities used to order fireworks from this
gentleman especially those...click
here to continue.
8th April - Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning on Wednesday
8th April 2009 at the St. Gabriel Band Club at 8.30am. The Price
is €2.50.
1st April -
Opening of the Holy Week
Exhibition 2009.
10
photos
click here...
The Holy Week Exhibition was opened today
Wednesday 1 April 2009. The Balzan Parish Priest and the newly
appointed Spiritual Director of our Society Rev. C. Vassallo inaugurated
this year’s exhibition. Members were present for the opening.
Definitely a great exhibition! Well done goes to all the members of the
St. Gabriel Club that during these last months gave a big contribution
in order to have a magnificent Holy Week Exhibition. Afterwards, a
reception took place. The Exhibition will remain open till Good Friday.
30th March -
St. Gabriel Band services
and invited bands 2009.
28th March -
UPDATED>>> Section
Pyrotechnic Society 25th March.
Saturday 28th March 2009, a Tombola & Lasagna Night was held in Aurora
Hall organized by the Pyrotechnic Society 25th March. The winners of
the Lottery were:
~ Original painting of the Our Lady of the
Annunciation by Artist Michael Mifsud - Maria
Vassallo
(Green ticket 89).
~ Hamper - Alfred Cardona
(Green ticket 66).
~ 2 Pizza and a bottle of Wine from The St. Gabriel Pizzeria -
Noel Borg
(Green ticket 103).
1st Hubert Camilleri
2nd Marlon Monreal
3rd Raymond Mamo
4th Kurt Camilleri
Trophy's sponsored by Mamo
Pyrothecnics.
25th March -
Photos of the Committee's
2008/2009 & new band students.
25th March - Liturgical
Feast of the Annunciation... Wednesday 25th March 2009! 8.00am
Mass at the Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel in Three Churches
Street. 6.30pm Solemn Mass. Emeritus Archbishop Mgr. Joseph
Mercieca will attend.
19th March -
Lunch in aid of the
building project! On
Thursday 19th March 2009, feast day, it is going to be organized a lunch
at the St. Gabriel Band Club Balzan at 12.30am. Price
€10.
Starter: Maltese bread with tomatoes,
olives and goat cheese, Main course: Stuffed pork oven baked, potatoes
and vegetables, Dessert: Fruit. Glass of wine and soft drink. Booking
from St. Gabriel band Club Balzan or phone21 445840.
17th March -
Another Outing organized by the Women's Committee. The
Women's Committee is organizing an outing with tombola on Tuesday 17th
March at 9am for the price of
€6. For more information
& booking phone at the Club 21
445840 or 99 245466.
16th March -
New Spiritual Director for the Club - Rev Fr. Kalcidon
Vassallo. After
the death of Mgr John Dimech last January, the Central Committee
appointed Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Kalcidon Vassallo as the New Spiritual
Director of the St. Gabriel Band Club. He accepted this new appointment
with great pleasure. Therefore, Rev. Fr. Vassallo will inaugurate the
Holy Week Exhibition on Wednesday 1 April 2009 at 7.15pm.
Wishing him more work with our members of St. Gabriel Band Club and the
whole village of Balzan.
11th March - Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning on Wednesday
11th March 2009 at the St. Gabriel Band Club at 8.30am. The Price
is €2.50.
5th March -
Funeral - Last Tribute to Ms. Mary Carbonaro!
24 photos
& 1 video click here... Thursday
5 March 2009 was held the funeral of Ms. Mary Carbonaro, mother of Ass.
Band's Director of the St. Gabriel Band. At 1.30pm, The St. Helen Band
of Birkirkara accompanied the funeral of Ms. Carbonaro. The funeral
passed near the St. Helen Band Club where the members gave the last
tribute to Ms. Carbonaro. The Mass praesente cadavere was said
at the St. Helen Basilica in Birkirkara. The Central Committee members
of the St. Gabriel Band Club attended the funeral.
4th March -
RIP - Mary Carbonaro!
Today Wednesday 4th March, early this morning it was announced the death
of Mary Carbonaro, mother of the Assitant Band Master of St. Gabriel
Band Club Balzan, Anthony Carbonaro. The Funeral is going to be
tomorrow Thursday 5th March 2009, with a Korteo by St. Helen Band at
1.00pm from the Church of St. Paul Birkirkara and the mass starts at
2.30pm. St. Gabriel Band Committee is attending this funeral with the
official flag. Aghtiha o Mulej il-mistrieh ta' dejjem.
17th February -
Another Outing organized by the Women's Committee. The
Women's Committee is organizing an outing with tombola on Tuesday 17th
February at 9am for the price of
€6. For more information
& booking phone at the Club 21
445840 or 99 245466.
30th January -
Dinner at the Club.
11th February - Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning on Wednesday
11th February 2009 at the St. Gabriel Band Club at 8.30am. The Price
is €2.50.
9th February -
Restoration on the
stairs which leads to the new hall, on antique look, from members of the
Club...
4 photos click here...
27th January -
Photo of the Central
Committee with the Archbishop of Malta, Pawlu Cremona, after the meeting
which was held at the Aurora Hall with all the organizations of the
village as part of his pastoral visit in Balzan. The Archbishop Mgr. P. Cremona
Pastoral Visit continued on Tuesday 27th January 2009 at Hal
Balzan. It was time for the Archbishop to meet local Societies. The
St. Gabriel Band Club was present for this occasion with the top
officials accompanied with several members of the Central Committee.
The Archbishop delivered his speech, while afterwards several questions
were asked to the Archbishop. A small reception was followed. Parish
Priest Rev. C. Vassallo attended.
22nd January -
Car stickers for sale
- NEW SOUVENIRS! Sticker which consists of the logo
of the Club, the words "Festa Marija Annunzjata" & the website of the
Club. The colour is white and the size is 30cm. Price €10.
For sale from the Club or phone 21445840 or 79093057. These stickers are
fixed to the back windscreen of the car.
20th January -
Another Outing organized by the Women's Committee. The
Women's Committee is organizing an outing with tombola at the Flower
Power, Ta' Qali on Tuesday 20th January at 9am for the price of
€6. For more information
& booking phone at the Club 21
445840 or 99 245466.
18th January -
One day seminar by the
Malta Band Club Association. Sunday 18
January 2009 was held the Annual One Day Seminar organized by the Malta
Band Clubs Association at Hotel Vivaldi. The President, Hon. Secretary,
Chairperson Women's Committee and the Band's Director attended this
seminar.
14th January - Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning on Wednesday
14th January 2009 at the St. Gabriel Band Club at 8.30am. The Price
is €2.50.
11th January -
Daniel Vella's Programme
Marcifest on 106.6FM
on the History of the St. Gabriel Band Club... Daniel
Vella’s Programme Marcifest on 106.6FM was dedicated to our Club’s
History. During the programme, Daniel did a good research about our
club while the best tunes by the St. Gabriel Band were played. Well
done Daniel!
9th January -
FUNERAL of Dun Gawnn Dimech -
Spiritual Director - RIP 6/1/09... Last salute as he deserved!
25 photos
& 1 video click here... The
Funeral was held on Friday 9th January 2009 at the St. Georges Basilica
at Victoria, Gozo. The President, Hon. Secretary, Vice-Secretary and
other members attended the funeral service. The St. Gabriel Band Club
participated with the official flag in order to give the last tribute
to Mgr. John Dimech or as he was better known in Hal Balzan as Dun Gwann.
Korteo started at 3.30pm from the Franciscan Convent while the
presentae cadavere mass started at 4.00pm.
THANK YOU MONS DIMECH FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE
WITH US IN BALZAN!!
6th January -
Omar & Noemi Aguis -
Musical Examination 2008 by the Malta Band Club Association.
5 photos
click here...
Tuesday 6th January 2009, the Malta Band Club Association
organized the Prize Day for those students that set for Musical
Examinations. One has to congratulate Omar Agius as he was classified
second in Theory and Third in Practice Grade 1. Noemi Agius was given a
certificate. Omar and Noemi form part of the St. Gabriel Band and are
under the guidance of Band’s Director Mro. Joseph Vella. Well done Omar
and Noemi.!!
6th January -
Dun Gawnn Dimech -
Spiritual Director - RIP 6/1/09 It
was announced the death of Dun Gwann Dimech who was the Spiritual
Director of the Club, 6th January 2009.
The
death of Mgr. John Dimech, the Club's Spiritual Director was announced.
Mgr. John Dimech or as better known in Hal Balzan as Dun Gwann was born
on the 2nd December 1922. Studied at St. Aloysius College.
In 1940 together with his family went to settle in Gozo and continued
his studies their. Ordered as a priest in 1949 and a year later he came
to Malta, settled
in Hal Balzan where he took responsibilities there. A great historian,
in fact he published a book named HAL BALZAN – Grajjietu sa l-1999.
Dun Gwann
used to publish an article every year on the Annual Magazine which the
St. Gabriel Band Club publishes for the titular feast of Our Lady of the
Annunciation which will take place in Hal Balzan on every second Sunday
of July. Until last year, Dun Gwann used to come on Saturday and Sunday
to enjoy the great atmosphere of the feast while meeting old friends
that he used to work with during his 43 consecutive years of pastoral
work in Hal Balzan. In fact, Mgr. John Dimech was the Spiritual
Director of the St. Gabriel Band Club. He died at the age of 86 years.
Christmas
Activities
Click on the picture to enlarge...
27th December -
Donation for ISTRINA 2008 -
€102.22.
25th December - Winners of the Christmas
Lottery. 1.
Doreen Farrugia 214929..
2. Helen Bonett 992454..
3. Rosalina Saliba 214874..
4. Charlie Borg 214962..
5. Gorg Mifsud 214952..
6. Alan Deguara 998885..
7. Ilaria Grech 792867..
8. Manuel Cauchi 214970..
9. Connie Aguis 214142..
8th December -
Lunch in aid of the
building project! On
Monday 8th December 2008, feast day, it is going to be organized a lunch
at the St. Gabriel Band Club Balzan at 12.30am. Price
€12.00.
Starter: Maltese bread with tomatoes,
olives and goat cheese, Main course: Stuffed pork oven baked, potatoes
and vegetables, Dessert: Fruit. Glass of wine and soft drink. Booking
from St. Gabriel band Club Balzan or phone21 445840.
1st December -
Calendar 2009, ready and is
being delivered...
Thanks to Silvio Cassar for taking care of this publication much awaited
by the members and all Balzan people. You can see the Calendar 2009
online...
30th November -
Private for Gozo - Balzan
Youths vs Gozo.
4 photos
click here...
Last Sunday 30th November 2008 Balzan won 1 - 0 against Gozo at the Gozo
Stadium at 12.30pm. Now they moved four points clear on top of the BOV
second division league. Congratulation and wish more success to the
players, president & committee from St. Gabriel Band Club. We encourage
everyone to support BALZAN!!!!
www.balzanyouthsfc.net
28th November - Tombla & Timpana Night
at Sala Aurora.
Il-Gimgha 28 ta’ Novembru 2008 saret Tombla & Timpana Night gewwa s-Sala
Aurora organizzata mill-Ghaqda Piroteknika 25 ta' Marzu b'risq in-Nar
tal-Festa 2009. Matul is-serata ttellghu 4 premjijiet marbuta ma’
Lotterija li kienu jinkludu:
Xirja ta’ €50 minghand Rojolin Grocer li ntrebhet mis-Sinjura Jean Borg
-ISFAR 129.
Voucher ta’ €25 minghand Deguara Ironmongery li ntrebah minn Tessie
Pullicino - ISFAR 45.
2 Pizza mis-St. Gabriel Pizzeria li ntrebhet minn Domnic Muscat - AHDAR 101.
2 Pizza mis-St. Gabriel Pizzeria li ntrebhet minn Joseph Spiteri -
AHDAR 150.
Grazzi lil dawn l-isponsors! Inthom nies ta’ vera! Prosit u grazzi lil
kull min attenda ghas-serata.
22nd November -
YOUTH OF THE YEAR award
2008.
Arthur Demarco from Birgu won
this year’s edition of Youth of the Year 2008 organized by Oasi
Foundation which was held on Saturday 22nd November at The Kempinski Spa San Lawrenz
Hotel Gozo. One has to notice that Hon. Secretary of the St. Gabriel
Band Club Saviour Deguara was one of the 9 finalists in this year’s
edition. Minister for Gozo Affairs Ms. Giovanna Debono attended this
ceremony. During the ceremony, past edition clips were shown, Melvin
Attard, 2006 Youth of theYear delivered a message. More clips were
shown, this time the finalists. Fr. Manwel Cordina, Director General of
Oasi Foundation, delivered his message and augurs all the nominated
finalists. He said, ‘You are all winners because you work voluntarily.
Our society needs you all.’ The song Hero was sung by Ylenia Caruana,
the ceremony presenter. Dr. Enzo Refalo LLD read the winner of this
year’s edition. The nominees were given a trophy and a
certificate
while the winner was also given a Shield which he will keep for a
year. A reception was followed at the San Lawrenz Hotel. Well done
Saviour!! Special thanks goes to Trevor Degiorgio - Local Council Balzan,
Lino Borg - The President of the Club and The Local Council Balzan.
22nd November -
Feast of Santa Cecilia -
Patron of Musicians!
18th November -
Another Outing organized by the Women's Committee. The
Women's Committee is organizing a private to the Birgu Market next
Tuesday 18th November 2008. For more information phone at the Club 21
445840 or 99 245466.
15ta' Novembru -
New
wallpaper... FREE DOWNLOAD! 1280 x 1024
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15th November -
Good Luck Jessica Muscat. On behalf of the St. Gabriel Band Club we
would like to congratulate Jessica Muscat and wish her a good luck next
Saturday 15th November 2008. Jessica Muscat participated in different
activities organized by St. Gabriel Band Club. Everyone cannot forget,
for sure, her participation in the Musical Programme held in the week of
the Feast 2007 and 2008 and the great performance during the Musical Programme
held on Saturday 29th September 2007, on the occasion of the 50th
Anniversary since the purchase of the Club premises. Thanks from our
heart for your kind help you always offered to the Club & once again we
wish you a good luck.
14th November - What's on at the St. Gabriel
Band Club.
16 photos
click here... The voluntary work in the St. Gabriel Band Club is
continuous all year round. In fact, Alfred Muscat, Lino Ciappara and
John Pullicino are on the go restoring the wooden pedestal of Angel St.
Gabriel. Lino Ciappara is restoring the wood, Alfred Muscat is painting
the pedestal with great colours while Jon Pullicino is fixing the fibre
sculpture. Well done friends!! Meanwhile, congratulations go to
Vice-President Alfred Muscat as this week he celebrated his 81st
birthday. Ad Moltus Anno Fred!! President Lino Borg is also fixing the
damages occurred in the fiesta lightings. The Project is on the go too.
In fact while the Contractor is hands on, John Pullicino has started
plastering the basement. All of this, and more…make the St Gabriel Band
Club life active throughout the entire year.
12th November -
First meeting of the
Central Committee 2008/2009... Appointment's! On
Wednesday 12th November after the mass for the members who passed away
it was held the first meeting of the new Central Committee 2008/2009 and
so all the members of the Central Committee have their appointment.
Click here to see all the appointment's of the
Central Committee 2008/2009...
12th November - Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning on Wednesday
12th November 2008 at the St. Gabriel Band Club at 9.00am. The Price
is €2.33.
12th November - Mass
for the repose of their soul On Wednesday 12th November 2008 a mass
will be celebrated at 6.30pm at the Annunciation Parish Church, Hal
Balzan to commemorate the members who passed away.
2nd November -
A visit to Lija and Hal Balzan Cemetery.
5 photos
click here...
On Sundaywill be visiting the Lija and Hal Balzan
cemetery at 10.00am.
1st November -
Certificate for Voluntary work. VO/0127 The
Government adopted a new policy regarding voluntary organizations.
Therefore, the St. Gabriel Band Club had to apply as it is a voluntary
organization. We were glad to hear that the Authority is giving a
meaning to voluntary organizations in Malta. After our application, we
were given registered number...VO/0127. (VO means a Voluntary
Organization together with the number given)
26th October -
Annual General Meeting.
4 photos
click here... During the annual general
meeting the new committee 2008/2009
was elected: President Lino
Borg, Secretary, Saviour Deguara, TreasurerRaymond Debono, Director Charles Fenech, Members
Alfred
Muscat,
John Pullicino,Pierre Fenech, Renald Gauci,Alan Deguara,
Joseph
Spiteri,
Simon Barbara, Jesmond Aguis,
Gorg Mifsud,Joseph Borg & Victor
Muscat. More details coming soon regarding the members.
19th October - Opposition Leader in Hal Balzan.
Newly elected Opposition Leader
Joseph Muscat accompanied with district MP’s and members from the
Executive Committee of the Malta Labour Party visited the St. Gabriel
Band Club on Sunday morning. President Mr. Lino Borg together with the
Central Committee and other members gave a warm welcome to the
Opposition Leader. He was toured around the building of the new project
and he was impressed with this ambitious project. A small reception was
followed.18 photos
click here...
18th October -
Concrete was laid in the basement.
4
photos click here...
18th October - Private - Birgu by Candlelight.
29th September -
Feast of Angel St.
Gabriel.
28th September -
Activities, Feast of Angel St.
Gabriel... A Moroccan Night was held in the
Notte di San Gabriele (St Gabriel’s Night) at Aurora Hall. This had to
be held in Annunciation Square but due to bad weather, the Moroccan
Night had to be transferred to Aurora Hall. It was a lively
evening...Tony & Friends Band together with the popular singer Georgina
and her son Ryan helped by Composer Mro. Paul Abela entertained the
audience throughout the Moroccan evening. The Moroccan food was under
the direction of the Moroccan Chef… Dounia. Thanks for the big
attendance which is always growing in these type of activities well
known by St. Gabriel Band Club.
Another activity was held on Sunday morning in a beautiful weather…The
Modified Car Show Competiition which was held in Annunciation Square.
The Show consisted of some great engineering and mechanical modified
cars together with the shiny colours of these cars. There were
different competitions during the event and trophies were awarded to the
winners for
Best Engine Bay, Best Interior, Best
Exterior, Best Luggage Boot & Best Overall - each category 3 trophies
for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place.
Spot prizes were given during the event. A big thank you goes to Victor
Galea, the Barman who was the main organizer and sponsor of this event.
19th September -
Boat Party...
Cancelled due to weather conditions!
5th September -
The roof of the new hall arrived
at the Club... Today
Friday 5th September, is another history day for the St. Gabriel Band
Club. As at 7.00am started the work to be placed the roof of the new
hall. As all the work has been finished, today, you will can see
more photos of the roof ready...
15 photos &
1
video click here...
30th August -
BBQ by the Pool at the
Pergola Hotel, Mellieha.
Photos click
here.
25th August -
Feast 2008 Photos - Updated. More
photos added of the Feast 2008. Including 48 photos of the Feast day
Sunday 13th July, 58 photos & 3 videos of St. Helen Band March and
ground fireworks, eve of the Feast Saturday 12th July & the videos of
the fireworks synchronized during the Vocal and Instrumental Program on
Thursday 10th July where edited and completed.
Click here to see...
24th August -
After 37 years the St.
Gabriel Band played once again in the Feast of Our Lady of the Abandoned
in Wardija. Sunday 24th August the St.
Gabriel Band played band marches at Wardija for the Feast of Our Lady of
the Abandoned. Very nice old village, with a great old feast tradition.
The St. Gabriel Band of Hal Balzan took
part in the feast of Our Lady of the Abandoned in Wardija. After the
absence of around 37 years from the participation in this feast, this
year the Band took the opportunity to play once again musical hymns in
Wardija.
In a typical summer atmosphere, the
breathtaking views, the perfectly maintained environment, the colourful
decorations and the lovely church were the great news of the evening.
But the best of it all was the harmonically sounds by the St. Gabriel
Band. This Band knows the first outside Hal Balzan musical hymns in
Wardija back in 1952, the foundation year of the St. Gabriel Band.
Count Bernardo Manduca Piscopo Macedonia Zammit who used to live in Hal
Balzan –today it’s the Spanish Embassy Residence - had another residence
in Wardija and asked Gabriel Caruana, today the Society Patron to get
the St. Gabriel Band to Wardija for the feast. For almost 20 years the
Band did its musical programme over there. One has to remember that
Count Bernardo was a great friend of the St. Gabriel Band Club. In fact
the Band stopped going to Wardija after his death in 1971.
Yes, the Hal Balzan oldies brought back
memories as they went to Wardija to feel once again this years feast as
the St. Gabriel Band was filling up with the traditional feast with
cheerful melodies, while the younger generation tasted a fraction of
the glorious past of the St. Gabriel Band.
40
photos & 4
videos click here...
20th August -
A visit to Honorable Member Karmenu Micallef... now at
home. After the
unfortunately accident of Honorable Member Karmenu Micallef last month,
a delegation headed by Parish Priest Rev. C. Vassallo and the President
of the St. Gabriel Band Club Mr. Lino Borg together with other friends,
went to visit Karmenu at his residence. He appreciated the visit and
thanked all those who visited him these last days both during his stay
in Mater Dei Hospital and now at this residence in Mosta. He also
praised those who gave him first assistance after his fall. Karmenu is
recovering very well.
19th August -
St. Gabriel Band for the
Feast of St. Helen in Birkirkara. On the occasion of the titular
feast of St. Helen, the St.Gabriel Band of Balzan was invited to perform
musical hymns along the streets of B’Kara on Tuesday 19th August 2008.
The Band was invited by the Feast Decoration Group and St. Helen Band
Club, known as "tal-Bagri".
Total of 68
musicians, as always the band was praised by all those present and the
organizers.
17
photos & 2
Videos click here...
13th August -
St. Gabriel Band Services -
August.
Date
Service
Occasion
Locality
Time
19 - 8 - 08
Marc
St' Helena Feast
Birkirkara
8.30pm -11.30pm
24 - 8 - 08
Marc
Our Lady of the Abandoned
Wardija
6.30pm -9.30pm
25th July -
Carmelo Micallef injured
during work on removing Feast decorations. Friday
25 June 2008, an unfortunately accident happened to our great friend and
Honourably Member Mr. Carmelo Micallef. The 76 years old Carmelo
Micallef was hurt as he was putting down a cable wire. He felt from the
ladder and was seriously injured. Neighbours gave there first help and
immediately, he was taken to Mater Dei Hospital by an Ambulance. Some
days later an operation was done in his lower back after the fractures
caused by the fall. Then he was recovered in Mater Dei Hospital. Now
he is back at home. Thank you Carmelo for all your great voluntary
work in the St. Gabriel Band Club and for the feast of Our Lady of
Annunciation.
24th July -
Feast of the Annunciation
2008 - WHAT A SUCCESS...
Definitely feast 2008 was a huge success! A success on its own!
Absolutely a great feast! Yes…what we worked and planned on, the
results showed that Feast 2008 in Balzan dedicated to Our Lady of the
Annunciation was a class of its own. Everything worked fine. The St
Gabriel Band was very smart on the first outing held on Monday 7th
July 2008. The enthusiasm was great as from day one. The Musical and
Instrumental Program held on Thursday 10th July 2008 was of a
very very high standard. The large audience applauded time after time
and the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ was the climax of this Program as
fireworks were synchronized to music. The last outing for the St
Gabriel Band was on Friday 11th July 2008 as the
demonstration with the St Gabriel statue proved to be a spectacle.
Supporters were cheering up with fantastic band hymns while fireworks
were let off. At the end a multi-vision presentation was organized by
the Youth Committee. The St Helen Band of Birkirkara, Kings’ Own Band
of Valletta and the Stella Maris Band of Sliema were the bands that
completed this years’ bands program. One has to say a big thank you to
The Band of The Hampshire Constabulary from the UK. This Band gave a
tremendous Musical Program on Wednesday 9th July 2008.Well
done friends! The newly formed 25th Pyrotechnic Society gave
a large contribution to this years’ feast success. Thanks to those who
worked for this huge success. Thanks for those who came to share the
finest moments of this years’ feast.
If you
have or you know somebody that took photos of the Feast 2008 and
would like to share them with us, we will be very happy. You can contact
us by e-mail
info@stgabrielbandclub.com
or deguarae@maltanet.net
or phone 21 445840 or 79093057 or come and visit us at the Club and
ask for a member of the Committee. Thank you very much for your help
always!!!
6th July -
The
statue of Angel Gabriel during restoration… Chev.
Alfred Camilleri Cauchi is on the final touches on the statue of Angel
Gabriel…the Patron of the Club. This year is the 15 anniversary when
the same statue arrived in Hal Balzan. The statue will make its return
on Friday July 11, 2008, and then around midnight, the statue will be
put on its column next to the Club. So remember that next Friday we
will meet at the Club at 10am and at around 11.30am, the carcade with
the statue will start from the Main Street (the bottom part).
5th July -
Recording on Super 1
Radio. Members
from St. Gabriel Band Club are going to be Recording on a Feast Program
on Super 1 Radio which starts at 12.30pm.
5th July -
CONGRATULATIONS -
Antonella & Randolph Bonnici.
Photos click here. On Saturday 28th June, at the Balzan Church
Antonella & Randolph Bonnici got married. On behalf of all the Committee's
and members we would like to congratulate them and wish them a lot of
happiness. We also thank them and there family's for there help and
support they give to St. Gabriel Band Club. CONGRATULATIONS!
2nd July -
Another Concert was added by
the St. Gabriel Band.
Photos click here. On Wednesday 2nd July another Concert
was held from the St. Gabriel Band in
preparation for the Vocal and Instrumental Program which is going to be
held on Thursday 10th July on the occasion of the Annunciation Feast of Balzan.
2nd July -
Live on UTV and Radju
Bastjanizi FM.
Members from St. Gabriel Band Club are going to be Live on a Feast
Program on UTV which starts at 8.30pm and on Radju Bastjanizi FM.
1st July -
The unique baldachin
(canopy) is hang up.
Photos click here. The beautiful baldachin
(canopy) suspended above the main altar is the work of Balzan-born
craftsmen Salvatore Grixti and Giuseppe Calleja. First exhibited on the
feast in 1877, this attractive work of art bears witness to the skilful
workmanship of Maltese artisans. This canopy is hang by only one rope.
Therefore this make the canopy a unique artistic decoration.
This canopy was place above the main alter this morning by local
volunteers.
30 ta'
Gunju - A week to go!
As the streets decorations are almost ready, the feelings of a great
feast is on. Even the Parish Church decorations are underway. All the
preparations will definitely lead us for another success in this festa
2008.
The last Saturday BBQ Night organized in the St. Gabriel Band Club was
yet another huge success in a great summer atmosphere. Last Monday’s
activity which took us for an information tour around the Parish Church
dedicated to Our Lady of the Annunciation was more than a discussion.
Mr. Carmel Bezzina, a local historian authority, delivered a highly
informative talk about the Parish Church and its building, its
decorations and much more.
Although those present knew such things about our Parish Church, but
surely everyone learned something new. Well done Mr. Bezzina! Even
Mr. Valent Chetcuti, better known as is-Sagristan, gave a helping
hand to Mr. Bezzina during his speech. At the end, Mr. Lino Borg,
President of the St. Gabriel Band Club presented a momento to Mr. C.
Bezzina.
Finally, Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July 2008, the village of Hal Balzan
is inviting the festa lovers to come and enjoy our local feast dedicated
to Our Lady of the Annunciation.
30th June -
Information about the
Church by Charles Bezzina.
Photos click here.
13th June -
Large Posters of the
Annunciation. For
sale from the Club Large Posters of the Annunciation for the price of
€5.00.
Ideal to be fixed to balcony's and window3s during the Feast of the
Annunciation in Balzan.
Information
Feasts Decorations. Anyone
who wishes to make light decorations, flags, crosses or banners (pavaljuni)
for the balcony can contact anyone of the committee or call on 21 445840
or email
info@stgabrielbandclub.comfor more information.
Tube
Bells for rent.
We have Tube Bells you can rent for your occasion like weddings. If you
are interested contact a member of the committee or phone 21 445840 or send an e-mail to
info@stgabrielbandclub.com for more information.
Would
you like to learn to play an instrument for free?
So send us the following details (name & surname, address, age,
telephone, male/female, type of instrument you would like to learn) at
the Club, St.Gabriel Band Club, Main Street, Balzan BZN 1252. If you
would like more information you may contact a member of the committee or
phone 21 445840 or send an e-mail to
info@stgabrielbandclub.com
Club
Yard and Hall for rent. The
Club’s yard and hall can be rented for any occasion. Anyone interested
can contact any member of the committee or call on 21 445840 or email
info@stgabrielbandclub.comfor
more information.