Landsgemeinde 2009 was held at Ol’ Macdonald’s Resort near Stettler, June 12-14, 2009.

The weather was fantastic – warm and dry, and it certainly brought out a great number of Swiss from across Alberta. Great representation from Calgary, Central Alberta and the Edmonton area!

Friday night cheese fondue was prepared by Swiss Treasures, Claudia and Daniel Farner. What a treat to have authentic Swiss fondue, prepared with delicious garlic, sherry and wine for only $8! This second annual offer is sure to become a tradition – with many thanks to Claudia and Daniel! Claudia always has inventory available – look her up at Swiss Treasures!

Ad hoc singing and yodeling carried on well into the early morning hours – and was magical to hear under the clear starry skies!

Saturday morning did not disappoint, with continued blue Alberta skies and sunshine. Alan Favre from Amazing Pots in Red Deer set up a collection of his beautiful pottery for sale, and we hope he was well rewarded. Alan also shared his artistic expertise by assisting participants with throwing or hand-forming their own pottery creation, which he took away for final firing and glazing. Alan’s offer of his time and energy for the very reasonable cost of $10 per pot was a generous gift for all! (Look for Alan’s work at the Alberta Craft Council and Legislature Building in Edmonton.)

The cross-bow shoot returned as a favorite event, with many participants competing for top honors. Many thanks to Jeanette, Tom Huwiler, Daniel Farner and Kurt Blesi for organizing, teaching, and keeping everyone safe! Prizes donated by Swiss Treasures, the Edmonton Swiss Rifle Club, and the Edmonton Swiss Society were greatly appreciated.

Running parallel to the cross-bow event was the ever-popular Jass tournament, organized by Anne Huwiler and Priska Strickler. Lots of “gamblers” in this crowd – and all had a great time over the card tables.

A soccer match followed the cross-bow and Jass – despite the warm temperatures, there was great participation from young and old!

The Edmonton Swiss Society provided the charcoal for a very successful group BBQ on Saturday night – everything tastes better when eaten outdoors and among “Kamerade”!

With a concert from the Edmonton Swiss Men’s Choir, and Wildrose Yodel Club followed up with a glass of wine or apple juice, the evening could not have been better! Everyone enjoyed the great group camping facilities – we look forward to next year.

Mark June 11-13, 2010 on your calendar for Landsgemeinde 2010!! Hope to see you all again!

Teresa Clouston