New Year Party for Ghanaians in Columbus, Ohio

The most anticipated New Year's Dinner and Dance Party has again come and gone. The Asantemankuo of Columbus, Ohio – U.S.A. was at its best as it put up another successful end-of-year event on Saturday, January 2, 2010. The over 400 Ghanaians in attendance were graciously fed and entertained.

The purpose of the event was clearly outlined in a brief speech by the President of the Association, Joseph Nana Tano. “We meet here tonight to celebrate the unity, friendship and support amongst ourselves and to enjoy the blessing of a New Year,” he said.

As he thanked guests who defied the icy storm to attend the party, Nana Tano also asked for their support to move Ghana forward: “As President, it is my goal to work diligently with my Executive to uphold the noble aims guiding our Association. I hope I can count on your cooperation to achieve this end. I also seek the collaboration of other Ghanaian Associations present here tonight and within the Greater Columbus Area for the benefit of our people both at home and abroad.”

The 2010 event was unique in several ways. It was graced by the presence of Ghanaian doctors in Ohio. Among them were Dr. Bernard Oppong of Ohio Health System, Dr. Alexander Adusei, Attorney-at-Law and Dr. Laurence Entsuah of St. Ann's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio. The traditional leaders were equally represented, led by Nana Odeneho Osei Kwabena and Nana Kumanin Gyamfi, Representative of the Omanhene of Dormaa in Columbus.

The occasion was characterized by a unique blend of traditional dress by women, and suit and tie by men. Miss Britney Maame Nyanta-Boateng led the singing of the United States National Anthem while Miss Elizabeth Frimpong sang the Ghana National Anthem.

The occasion was also climaxed with raffles won by five people. The first prize, a 19-inch Television, was won by Ernestina Appiah-Boateng of Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Several awards were given out to deserving members of the Association. The most prestigious award of the night, “Most Dedicated Member” went to George Adusei-Bonsu, also known as Kwame Piesie. A former President of the First Ghanaian Society of New Jersey, Piesie was recognized for revitalizing the Asantemankuo.

Sponsors of the event were Beets Computer Clinic, Agani Shipping, Rocky Trucking Company and Macy's Department Stores, all in Columbus, Ohio. Music was provided by DJ Sam and Cool DJ. Fabulous Kofi Boakye was the Master of Ceremony; and Ben Photos covered it all for the pictures.

By Nana Appiah
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