Celebrating Ghana at 67 in Chicago: A big Kudos to the GNC

The Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago, GNC, hosted an impressive party in honor of Ghana's 67th Independence Anniversary Celebrations at The Aston Banquets.

It was the peak of cultural display, national pride, and merriment, which the Council keeps dishing out annually. The Council should be acknowledged and honored for making it possible yearly by creating memories that linger like the echo of a favorite song long after its last lyrics were sung.

For the first time in a while, a new affiliate of the GNC, The Zongo Community Association, led by Alhaji Bashiru Habib, an "old stalwart," participated in the celebrations.

Distinguished members present are Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, President of Group Nduom; Rev. Dr. Nana Yaw Amponsah Antwi, Resident Pastor, Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Redemption Congregation Chicago; Paa Kwasi Sam, former President of the GNC; Mr. Martin Dade Bonsu; Mr. Emmanuel Papafio; Nana Addae Baffour; Mrs. Patience Yawa Adigbli; Imam Baba Cisse, Dr. Hajia Habiba Seidu-Fuseini, MSN-FNP-C, EdD; Nana Kwame Frimpong, Dr. Prince Hodogbe, Mr. Kofi Cromwell and others.

The Ojam Cultural Troupe thrilled the crowd with splendid and spellbinding Agbadza, Borborbor, Kpalogo, Adowa, and Tora performances that left a superb and meaningful experience for performers and the audience. They were the principal architects of the joy, the choreographers of the laughter that vibrated the atmosphere in the hall, fascinating some attendees to join them.

Mr. Kofi Cromwell brought the house down with his execution of the heartwarming ballad and iconic song of Louis Armstrong, "What A Wonderful World." The song's simple yet profound lyrics resonated with the audience.

The President of the GNC, Mr. Kassim Abubakari, informed the audience that in recognition of the strength in unity, despite the unique background and diverse associations and affiliations, the Council chose the theme "PROGRESS IN OUR DIVERSITY" for the occasion.

The theme he said, underscores the idea that we are, first and foremost, Ghanaians despite our various associations and cultural backgrounds. Our health, therefore, must be paramount to us all.

He informed the audience that the Council, in addition to the monthly community health clinic, will introduce an annual "HEALTH WALK" starting in May this year. He explained that the program will serve as an opportunity to unite as a community in solidarity and promote the benefits of an active lifestyle.

The President emphasized the need for community members to patronize the free Community Health Clinic when he said, "As we focus on health, let me remind everyone in the community again to use the Ghana Community Health Clinic to access good healthcare. The clinic is open to all but was purposely created to help members of our community access good healthcare with or without health insurance."

"Let us remain active, attend social gatherings, and, most importantly, be our brothers' and sisters' keepers. In our diversity lies our strength, and through unity, we shall progress," he appealed to the audience.

In conclusion, President Kassim thanked the audience for their attention and asked community members to continue building a thriving, interconnected Ghanaian community.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Vice President of the Ghana National Council, Dr. Eunice Cromwell DNP, FNP-C, extended the gratitude of the Council to the audience for joining in celebrating the 67th Independence of Ghana. She noted that it had been an extraordinary evening filled with joy, pride, and unity.

She also expressed her deepest gratitude to distinguished guests, community leaders, and representatives from various organizations. She acknowledged the clergy that offered prayers, Reverend Dr. Kofi Noonoo, President of the Council of Ghanaian Churches, and Mallam Hafiz Tahiru, Haske Community of Metropolitan Chicago, for their presence and support, making the event even more significant and memorable.

She expressed her sincere gratitude to all sponsors, performers, guests, and others whose participation has contributed to the success of the celebrations here in Chicago. In conclusion, Dr. Cromwell said, "Once again, thank you all for participating in this momentous occasion. May God bless Ghana, and may our bond as a community continue to grow stronger."

VS Global, the official partner with Ghana's biometric enrollment and other passport services, presented a cheque for 5,000 in support of the GNC Community Health Clinic. They have offices in Chicago and Los Angeles.

The crowd was on their toes all night because of D.J. Azonto's spot-on selections. He has established himself as one of the best deejays in Chitown.

Emcee Cosby Michael had the crowd hanging on every word. Whether it was a witty joke or heartfelt introduction, he kept the revelers hooked.

Deserving community members received awards for their work and devotion to the Ghanaian community.