Ukrainian DJ, garlands, disco, fun entertainment for children and, of course, the mayor's elaborate New Year's speech. These were the keys to a successful and crowded New Year's meeting. It took place in the municipal reception center for Ukrainian refugees in Ossehar in Kuvorden. Together with the residents of the reception locations Gees, Sleen and Ossehaar, the managers and administrators of the location organized a New Year's reception.

In his New Year's speech, the mayor of the city Renze Bergsma mentioned the beginning of the war in Ukraine and the period after it. With all the uncertainty that entails. The municipality supported the proposal of the Council to generously accept refugees. He thanked the residents, workers and companies who made this possible. And he expressed his admiration for Ukrainians who returned to life after they had to leave their home and hearth. Ukrainian Anna Solyanyk, who lives in a host family in Nieuwe Krim, addressed the guests. She thanked for the way they take care of Ukrainians. Serhiy Kasynets from the humanitarian organization "United Ukrainians" told how he collects aid and brings it to Ukraine. He handed the mayor a special map of Ukraine.

Also impressive was the performance of ten-year-old Alex Kazantsev, who lives in a host family in Zwinderen and who, after six months of Dutch language lessons, thanked people in very clear Dutch. He finished with the Ukrainian battle cry "Glory to Ukraine".