Date: January 6, 2017
Place: Szolnok, Hungary
A special banquet was held on January 6, 2017 in Szolnok, Hungary to celebrate the 70th birthday (actual birthday is January 2) of Shihan Kalman Furko, a 7th Dan Karate master and retired colonel.
The event was attended by prominent guests, such as Dr. Istvan Simicsko – Minister of Defense, the General Staff leaders, Colonel Attila Simon – Defense Ministry Chief of Staff, Janos Hajdu – Major General of the Counterterrorist Center Commander, Dr. Laszlo Garamvolgyi – General of the National Crime Prevention Council’s Director of Communications, Dr. Janos Meszaros – President of the Hungarian Karate Federation and the National Racing Sports Association, Szalay Ferenc – Mayor of Szolnok City, and many others related to national defense, karate and sports leaders, former students, a total of about 60 people gathered to celebrate his 70th birthday.
Defense Minister Istvan Simicsko praised Shihan Kalman’s work in the sport and military areas, and presented him a “Hadik- sword”. Also greeted with a surprise, was a film presented by the ministry and the Stability Sports Promotion, of Shihan Furko Kalman and his achievements. After this, President Janos Meszaros also greeted the Shihan and gave him a gift from the Hungarian Karate Federation.
Then two big cakes with fireworks were brought into the room, cut into slices by Shihan …. and then a toast was made, dinner and casual conversation – dancing continued into the program, with music provided by a local music band.
Old karate masters, or former students and friends also honored the event, and personally expressed good wishes to Shihan’s 70th birthday.
