THE 14th ANNIVERSARY OF UKRAINE'S INDEPENDENCE
Chicago-area Ukrainians commemorate homeland's independence anniversary
CHICAGO - Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago radiated with warmth from the bright sun on August 24 as members of Chicago's Ukrainian community filled the square to celebrate the 14th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. A huge Ukrainian flag that flew over the plaza; was posted at a sunrise flag-raising ceremony conducted by Ukrainian American Veterans Post 32.
Pavlo Bandriwsky performed the duties of master of ceremonies, welcoming the community to the commemoration on behalf of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, (UCCA) Illinois Division. He introduced Orest Baranyk, president of the UCCA Division, who gave concise speeches in Ukrainian and English, reviewing the progress that has been made in Ukraine since the last independence commemoration.
The next speaker was Oleh Shevchenko, acting consul general of Ukraine, who shared warm greetings from the Ukrainian government and underscored Ukraine's journey on the path toward freedom and democracy.
On behalf of Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Pat Michalski read a friendly greeting to the Ukrainian Consulate and the Ukrainian community, paying tribute to the anniversary.
Mr. Bandriwsky introduced the musical entertainment: sopilka and flute player Vasyl Perovanchuk, singer Mykola Sikora and "The Golden Saxophone of Ukraine" Ihor Rudy. Each performed two numbers and was rewarded with loud applause from the audience.
Mr. Bandriwsky thanked UCCA committee members for organizing the celebration, especially Bohdan Buchwak for handling all details relating to the performances and the audience for turning out for the celebration downtown.
In closing, Father Mychajlo Melnyk lead a prayer for a strong and independent Ukraine and a united Ukrainian American diaspora working together for their beloved Ukraine.
Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, September 18, 2005, No. 38, Vol. LXXIII
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