Highlights of UNIBOA’s 16th National Convention
Held in Arlington, Texas - May 27 - 29, 2006
The United Bassa (Liberia) Organization in the Americas (UNIBOA) held its 16th National Convention in Arlington, Texas from May 26-29, 2006 with the National President Mr. Joseph D. Sinyan presiding. The Convention was held near Dallas, Texas which has the slogan “Live large and think big” and described the essence and vitality of an organization built on the attitude that all things are possible.
UNIBOA’S 16th National Convention brought together, nine member organization including the host Texas, Pennsylvania, Georgia, South Jersey, North Jersey, Rhode Island, New York, Minnesota and Washington DC to recommit themselves to UNIBOA and Liberia, provide us with an essential reflective time in which to celebrate our commitment to our organization, our beloved homeland Liberia and come forth renewed to promote the building of a new UNIBOA and new Liberia. North Carolina and Detroit, Michigan were absent. The theme of the Convention was “Building the New” and makes reference to the new day which exists not only in UNIBOA but also our homeland Liberia. This new day and each moment of our lives are new, fresh and vital. We believe that knowledge gives people the ability to grow so we nurture them by providing opportunities for learning.
UNIBOA is on the move--growing wiser, larger and stronger and it is a delight to plant new seeds .Member organizations came together to discuss proposals that would improve the operations and programs as well as address the challenges of re-building the Bassa Counties of Margibi, Montserrado, Grand Bassa and River Cess Counties. Participants sought to reconcile competing demands and the need to expand services in light of the pressures and consequences of the Liberian Civil War. By pooling their individual resources to collectively meet the needs of a diverse group of people who share a common bond with them, members discussed how best to work with local actors on the ground and improve the delivery of services in Post-War Liberia.
Of significant importance was the visit of Superintendent of Grand Bassa County, Hon. Julia Duncan-Cassell who served as the keynote speaker. UNIBOA aimed to bolster support and make a difference in the lives of our people in the United States and at home in Liberia. Priority was given to critically examining a range of initiatives, and the critical importance of making key tactical and strategic judgments in the interests of our people in Liberia. Specifically issues discussed included the erosion in Buchanan, the human rights situation at the Liberia Agricultural Company (LAC), support to Orphanages in the Bassa Counties, UNIBOA’s Capital Campaign Project of a Community Center and its Scholarship Program of training nurses at institutions of higher learning in Liberia .Internal reviews of the organization’s structure and operational methods included accepting the concept of changing the date of the National General Assembly, fund-raising efforts including the Miss UNIBOA Contest, National Raffle and venue of the next convention. UNIBOA’s Board also had its elections and a new corps of officers.
The host chapter of Texas and its Chairman Stephen N. Joe who served as the National Convention Chairman offered a thriving culinary scene, effective accommodation, trendy entertainment and a wonderful atmosphere of fellowship and love.
The Convention activities began with a meeting between officials of the City of Arlington, UNIBOA and the Superintendent of Grand Bassa in an attempt to forge a sister- city relationship and develop a partnership. This was followed by a Welcome Soiree hosted by the Bassa Association of Texas at the Blue Cypress Hotel and Suites, 117 South Watson Road in Arlington, Texas where all activities were held.
The Convention was opened by the National President, Mr. Joseph D. Sinyan. Prayers were said by Rev. John Goah of Tennessee. Mr. Stephen Zeogar, National Vice President and Coordinator of the National Convention offered the traditional calling of the Herald to mark the formal opening of the Conference. In his welcome remarks the Chairman of the Bassa Association of Texas, Mr. Stephen N. Joe welcomed the delegates to come up with constructive ideas and programs that will take the organization to a higher level. He promised the delegates Texas style hospitality and welcomed them to the Lone Star State. This was followed by introduction of the keynote speaker Hon. Julia Duncan-Cassell, Superintendent of Grand Bassa County by Mr. Jerome Gayman, her former school mate at Bassa High School.
In her remarks, Superintendent Cassell recounted the many challenges facing the county and the need to develop partnership with UNIBOA in capacity building efforts. She methodically gave an update of the state of affairs in Grand Bassa County and her election as the head of the Council of Superintendents. She also discussed the level of cooperation which exists between all her colleagues in developing partnerships with each other to foster national development and reconstruction. The keynote address was followed by a lively question and answer period where delegates had an opportunity to ask questions concerning the erosion in Buchanan, redistricting and re-survey of land, naming of districts instead of the current number system, the situation at LAC, decentralization of social services including electricity, collaboration between the Bassa Counties, reviewing of concession agreements, revenue sharing and the need for a formal proposal to the Government of Liberia on the LAC situation.
Greetings and felicitations were sent by the Governor of Texas, Rick Perry, Dr. Robert Chuck, Mayor of Arlington, President Arthur Watson from ULAA and Ms. Delores Anderson from the St. Lucie County School District in Florida, Mr. Jerome Gayman of Frontline for Kids and Mr. Ralph Henry, President of the BWI Alumni Association.
The National President was introduced by Mr. Agememnon Davis of the South Jersey Chapter followed by the State of the Union Address. In his State of Union Address the National President, Joseph D. Sinyan made a progress report on the activities of the Union which is stronger, effective and efficient. He thanked the young Chapter of Texas for their generosity in hosting this year’s Convention. Further, he informed the delegates that UNIBOA carried out many of our goals and we were able to perpetuate the political and cultural existence of its people in the face of adversity during the Liberian Civil War through our material and financial support to the people. He extended his appreciation to all of the past national leaders, chapter leaders and members for their far-sightedness. Additionally he believed that by joining hands with the people of Liberia we would be able to provide education, health and socio-economic needs through our financial support and our commitment to UNIBOA. He cautioned member organizations to proactively support the development programs that will cater to the well-being of the Bassa Counties. President Sinyan challenged us to work collaboratively to help plan a reconstruction road map. The task of reconstruction is daunting and the Government cannot do it alone. Therefore, the economic and infrastructure development of our counties rest squarely on us. He applauded the following members of UNIBOA who have promised to sponsor 1-2 students at any university or college in Liberia in the area of health. These stalwart Bassonians include Mr. and Mrs. Emmanuel Reeves, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Davis, Dr. & Mrs. Lawrence Zumo, Mr. & Mrs. Nathaniel Brumskine and Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Sinyan. These restricted funds are earmarked specifically for the training of nurses who would go back to the Bassa Counties to serve in the health care delivery system. He also commended Mrs. Evita Bestman, the Ambassador of UNIBOA, through whose efforts we have received seven boxes of new college level text books from a university in New York City. Again he challenged the delegates need to see the bigger picture of things and contribute generously to the Capital Campaign Project as well as our scholarship program.
The National President went on to make some recommendations including consideration for changing of the time of Convention from Memorial Day weekend because of the impact of graduations and other regional organizations using this same weekend. He appealed to all members of UNIBOA to make an annual individual contribution of one ($100.00) hundred dollars besides chapters’ annual fee to finance UNIBOA’s projects and programs. The President also informed the delegates about the efforts of his Administration to re-instate the legal status of the organization. Special thanks were given to the Honorable Julia Duncan –Cassell, Superintendent of Grand Bassa County, and her officials for providing space and a building on the Fair Ground in Buchanan for UNIBOA’s Community Center. This is the major project of his Administration and he asked the membership to roll up their sleeves and work for the success of this project. “Let us make UNIBOA the best, progressive, unified and proactive organization of Liberians in the Americas” the President concluded.
The Business Session of the Convention adopted the agenda and the minutes of the 15th National Convention held in Washington DC was read by the National Secretary General Jeremiah G. Davis. The Financial report was made by the National Treasurer, Mr. Ernest Simmons who received a commendation for a job well done. However, even though the delegates voted to consider the concept of changing the date of the General Assembly, there was not agreement on what date to change to. Suggestions included August, July 4, September and keeping Memorial Day. Therefore, Memorial Day will remain the date until a decision can be made. The idea of contributing $100 was also voted out. Rhode Island was tentatively selected as the venue of the next Convention after consultation with the Chapter’s membership. The Convention was adjourned so that the Board of Directors would have its elections.
Board Elections were held with the Chairman of the Board Mr. G. Walter Greenfield presiding. Mr. Greenfield who had ably served the Board after two consecutive terms was not seeking re-election. Those vying for the Chairmanship included Mr. Emmanuel Vambram, Co-Chairman, Mr. Robert Garguah, Secretary and Mrs. Mydea Reeves-Karpeh, Board Member from Washington DC. Mrs. Karpeh won 10 of the 17 votes cast, Mr. Garguah had 4 votes and Mr. Vambram had 3 votes. Mr. Agememnon Davis, Board Member from South Jersey was elected by acclamation as Co- Chairman. Mr. Albert Travell was elected Secretary. However since he was proxy for a Board member from Texas it was agreed that the Secretary position will be filled at the next Board meeting.
On Saturday evening the traditional Unity Dinner- Ball and Queen Contest was held at the Blue Cypress Hotel and Suites. The Mistress of Ceremonies was Mrs. Mydea Reeves-Karpeh. Invocation and Grace was said by Rev. Nathan Kortou followed by Farewell Statement by the outgoing Board of Directors Mr. G.Walter Greenfield. The Dinner Guest Speaker Rev. Ray E. Hampton was introduced by Pastor Nathaniel Johnson of First Family Life Church.
In his remarks, Pastor Hampton recalled the pleasant memories of his visits to Liberia and challenged the Liberians to reconstruct their beloved homeland. He informed the group of the activities of Children Rescue Outreach International which he co-founded with Lucy Roberts, a member of the Texas Chapter.
Remarks were also made by Rev. Fred Vincent of Children’s Rescue Outreach International who talked about his passion for Liberia and the generosity of the Bassa people. Following the remarks, Rev. Ray Hampton was gowned by Superintendent Julia Duncan-Cassell as a Bassa Chief on behalf of UNIBOA.
Honoring ceremonies followed with special Presidential Service awards given to Mydea Reeves-Karpeh, Emmanuel N. Reeves, Scott Mandeh, James Horace (UNIBOA’s webmaster), Joseph Davis, Edwin Dorzon, A. Sayah Richardson, Evita Bestman, Rev. Dr. J. Edwin Lloyd Sr. and Agememnon Davis. Certificates of Appreciation went to Mr. Roger K. Logan, Hon. Julia Duncan-Cassell, Rev. Napoleon Karr, Mr. James Monyoukaye and Rev. Ray Hampton. Special commendations were given to members from various chapters for their outstanding contributions to their chapters. These outstanding members included: Samuel Tompoe, Agemenon Davis and Grace Andrews from South Jersey, Rose Allison, Gray Brown, Edith Lee and Janet Somalah from Rhode Island, George Bryant, Frank & Ellen Warah and Mr. & Mrs Benedict Roberts from Pennsylvania, Evita Bestman, Isaac Gbehan and Emmanuel Vambram from New York; Edwin Dorzon and Nathaniel Brumskine from Washington DC; Rebecca Diggs, Benjamin Gbapaywhea and Mercy Mason-Alexander from Texas; Theresa Jacobs-Korleh, Abraham Barwon and Robert James from North Jersey; Louise Fofana, Wilhelmina Morris and Theresa Parker-Reeves from Minnesota.
The Miss UNIBOA Queen Contest followed. There were three beautiful queens- Martha Tarr, the 2005 Miss UNIBOA and Queen from North Jersey, Edith Lee from Rhode Island and Queen Elizabeth Mayson from Texas. Ms. Queen Elizabeth Mayson won as Miss UNIBOA 2006 and was crowned and sashed by Superintendent Cassell. Vote of thanks was given by Mr. Scott Mandeh from Pennsylvania. Grand march was led by G. Walter Greenfield and Superintendent Cassell. Dancing followed until the wee-wee hours of the morning.
The Intercessory Service was held at the Arlington Christian Bible Fellowship Church in Arlington, Texas with the Rev. Theo Bessman as Pastor. The message was brought by Rev. Emmanuel Botchway who delivered an inspiring and renewing message entitled “It is Time”. The service was very impressive and strengthened our resolve to help our people in Liberia. Rev. Bessman and his congregation donated $2000 in cash, pledges and checks towards UNIBOA’s Scholarship Program. UNIBOA wishes to acknowledge the generosity of Pastor Bessman and his congregation.
A picnic was later held at Red Bud Park in Hurst, Texas followed by a Social and Raffle Drawing at the Blue Cypress Hotel and Suites.
On Monday, May 29, 2006 delegates from the various member organizations departed for their various destinations.
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