Meeting Minutes

Date: Sunday, 28 February 2016 at 7:40 PM

Teleconference call

Theme: “40 years ago”

Attendees: 27 Callers

1.

 RICHARDS,DOROTHY

 

    

2.

 BRUMSKINE ,MARGARET- RICKS

 

 

 

3.

MOORE, DAVID

 

 

 

4.

WILLIAMS, ALIRIC WARIEBI

 

 

 

5.

WARNER, COMFORT CHENOWETH

 

 

 

6.

SMITH, GIFTY ROBERTS Rev.

 

 

 

7.

CISCO, LAFAYETTE

 

 

 

8.

WANDA JONES

 

 

 

9.

W. WASHINGTON

 

 

 

10.

STEVENS, LEUVET

 

 

 

11.

SMITH, CHERRINE GOODRIDGE

 

 

 

12.

SMITH ,ROOSEVELT

 

 

 

13.

SIMS ROSELINE

 

 

 

14.

BING,SOPHIE DUNBAR

 

 

 

15.

COLLINS,SHERYL

 

 

 

16.

RAYMOND, KARGBO YASSAH

 

 

 

17.

SMITH, BROWN,GRACE

 

 

 

18.

GIBSON,ARAM

 

 

 

19.

GRANT, THOMAS

 

 

 

20.

GRANT, EDITH WILLIAMS

 

 

 

21.

EASTMAN, LOUISE

 

 

 

22.

(UNANNOUNCED)

 

 

 

23.

(UNANNOUNCED)

 

 

 

 

* NAMES AS LISTED IN CALLER IDENTIFICATION

 

 

 

 

  1. Prayer, Welcome, Introductions and Apologies

          M. Ricks called meeting to order at 7:40PM; Leuvet Stevens offer prayers, substituting for Chaplain Ciata Diggs who had prior engagements.

  1. Minutes of Sunday, 1, November 2015

             Dorothy van Aurelia Tolbert read synopsized version of minutes of 1 November 2015.

With minor discussions, a motion was called to accept the previous meeting as read. Meeting minutes of 1 November 2015 was accepted.

  1. Financial Secretary Report

Leuvet A. Stevens postponed financial reports because some due payments had to be re-issued in name of CLASS OF 1978 EDUCATION FUND. Updated due payments to be posted momentarily after reissuance. Leuvet advised that henceforth, all checks be made out to “CLASS OF 78 EDUCATION FUND”. M. Ricks acknowledged situation of  some dues reissuance and recommended to members’ that postponement is appropriate for accounting purposes and a financial report shall be made in next meeting.

  1. 40th Reunion Planning Committee Report

Committee Chairperson, Vice President Sherly Collins averred she had no information to report at the time – she apologized to members and stated she will make efforts prior to next scheduled meeting.

Mr. Ricks acknowledged. He later provide synopsis of previous Reunion and alluded to planning efforts and cost. He asked Cherrine Goodrdige Smith to please assist the Planning Committee to develop a Reunion plan worthy for our 40th Reunion.

Cherrine Goodridge accepted the call for assistance and will get back with the members via committee momentarily. She emphasized the 40th Reunion should be one for the ages and it will be approached as such

Mr. Ricks provided a theoretical forecast of twenty (20) committed members making due payments regularly until December 2018, and doing so could essentially provide us sufficient funds to host a successfully 40th Reunion program.

  1. Correspondence – Inward/Outward: M. Ricks informed members that Charles Hansford and other 78ers in Liberia are planning a 40th Reunion. Mr. Ricks announced the passing away of Victor Manning a fellow 78er in Liberia. A sympathy card was mailed by Mr. Ricks to the late Victor Manning sister, Ms. Augustus Marsh who resides in Brooklyn, NY.
  1. General Business

Grace Smith suggested we looked into accommodating credit card payments for dues. Leuvet Stevens responded she looked into this idea previously and our credit Union did not have the ability at the time. She will look into this matter again.

Sophie Dunbar Bing asked if members could be provided the class’ account deposit number, which would allow for members to make due payment as in “bill payments online”. Leuvet said she will look into this possibility with our credit union.

Alaric Wariebi Willaims asked if web banking was a possibility to facilitate due payments; Thomas Grant asked if pay pal could be placed on the website as accommodations for payment also.

Mr. Ricks commented that Leuvet Stevens should investigate aforementioned suggestions and provide responses to member in the next meeting. In the interim, Mr. Ricks will investigate due payments via our website site and provide update in the next scheduled meeting.

Mr. David Moore suggested members remit several hundred dollars to memorialized deceased 78ers on BW Harris National Alumni Association website.  

Thomas Grant reiterated 78' members name would be placed on the national wall of memory.

Comfort Cenoweth warner commented this idea is too expensive and  calls for money we do not have.

Mr. Ricks asked David Moore if this idea was a fundraiser – David responded in the affirmative. Mr. Ricks said he does not support the suggestion because deceased 78ers are memorialized on Class of 78 website without cost, and it seem immoral to use deceased members for fundraising purposes without consultation with relatives; importantly,78ers are active members of the National body – paying chapter dues, supporting events in respective chapters. Presently, members are seeking to make class due payments current in addition to benevolence and reunion initiatives; to seek additional fundraiser is burdensome to all, especially so that members are currently performing fundraisers at various levels of engagement.

  1. Announcements

Leuvet A. Stevens announced that members attended wake keeping of Alaric wariebi Williams' mother in Maryland; that Dorothy, Yassah, Sophie and herself made a benevolence visit  with Jackie Thorpe Addy and her husband. A similar trip is being planned to Vickie-Doe Herring and her husband on the 9th of April and members able to attend are welcome. Member Boima Johnson who took ill recently is also on scheduled visit as well.

Deconte Brumskine-Ricks informed members that Verlene Curtis Torchiano was involved in a terrible accident recently in which her vehicle was totaled. Members were asked to reach out to Verlene.

Dorothy made mentioned of Deconte Brumskine-Ricks uncle, Dr. Walter Brumskine who passed away recently. Members were asked to extend words of sympathy to Deconte.

Rev. Gifty Roberts Smith said she missed a few of the announcements – specifically details about Macdilla Howard’s funeral. Leuvet stated she text information to all and information was posted on the class website.

  1. Closing Prayer

Leuvet Stevens provided closing prayer as Chaplain for the teleconference meeting.

  1. Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned and next scheduled meeting will be posted on the class website.

Dorothy van-Aurelia Richards, secretary

Date: Sunday, 28 February 2016 at 7:40 PM

Teleconference

 

Date: Sunday, 1 November 2015 at 7:38 PM

Teleconference call

Theme: “Embracing the Future”

Attendees:30 Callers

  1. 240-640-XXXX - Unannounced
  2. 978-237-XXXX - Unannounced
  3. Alfred Major
  4. Aram Gibson
  5. Bendu Barclay Browne
  6. Cherrine Goodbridge Smith
  7. Ciata Diggs
  8. Comfort Chenoweth Warner
  9. David Moore
  10. Dorothy Richards Tolbert
  11. Edith Grant
  12. Father Benjamin Speare Hardy
  13. Grace Smith Brown
  14. Jackie Thorpe Addy
  15. James Duncan
  16. John T. Gabbidon
  17. Leuvet Stevens
  18. M. Decontee Brumskine Ricks
  19. Milton Ricks
  20. Oretha Kumba Urey
  21. Patience Logan
  22. Rev. Gifty Roberts Smith
  23. Roseline Simms
  24. Rosevelt Smith
  25. Sheryl Collins
  26. Sophie Dunbar Bing
  27. Theodosia Daniels Hoff
  28. Thomas Grant
  29. Vyrle Kabbah Killen
  30. Yassah Karbo Raymond

 

  1. Prayer, Welcome, Introductions and Apologies

M. Ricks called meeting to order at 7:40PM; prayers offered by L. Stevens and T. Grant provided words of encouragement.

  1. Minutes of Friday, 14 August 2015

Dorothy van Aurelia Tolbert read synopsized version of minutes.

  1. Financial Secretary Report

Leuvet Stevens provided details of financial report

  • $3,910 collected for Pierre King; family was given $3,500.
  • Grace Smith Brown was responsible for the ladies corsages and gentlemen boutonnières for Sholo's funeral. Cost to fabricate and ship these items was $114.50
  • $1,450.00 Contribution made to late Hawa Byrd four sons, each received $362.50.
  • The class dues of $19.78 is being paid by several members: S. Collins, 12 months, E. Bedell, 12 months, J. Duncan, 12 months, L. Stevens, 6 months, T. Elliot, 6 months, G. Smith, 6 months
  • $200 was raised for Morris Gweh which Leuvet sent to him via Western Union. He expressed his gratitude to the class.
  1. Correspondence – Inward and outward
  • Jimmy Duncan suggested a compassion fund for the class, due to what he observed at Pierre’s going home. He asked for at least 20 members to join with him to donate at least $10 per month for this cause. Ben Hardy, Decontee Ricks, Leuvet Stevens and Shyrel Collins and John T. supported his suggestion. Shyrel suggested a name be given for this compassion fund idea and guidelines set. Ben motioned to adopt the idea and the amount of money be set. Thomas wanted to know what the designated dues of $19.78 is used for. Milton explained there was a motion made; and $19.78 is separate from dues. Oretha asked that Thomas’ concern be addressed before going on. Duncan explained his suggestion for establishing the fund will be to give financial help to members who may be ill with cancer, diabetes, etc. Sophie commented that the idea is all good but what about the $100 for benevolence? Milton said $100 is deceased members’ families and reiterated Duncan’s. He appointed Jimmy as chair of committee to provide proposal and also Alfred, Ben, Leuvet, and John T. The committee is to provide a Compassion Fund proposal for nest scheduled meeting.
  • Eric Yhap: Group Insurance Initiative; Eric was not available to provide information.
  • Oretha Kumba Urey – Establishment of Community Center in Liberia: Oretha’s idea is to provide an ongoing project for a community center. She noted that people in Liberia have no entertainment beside the beer bar and video club. Milton asked her to provide more details. Grace suggested that we put this idea on the table for people to think more about her idea. Thomas suggests that an exploratory committee be set up headed by Oretha and maybe the focus can be on seniors and widen the idea.
  • Famatta J. Sambollah Lincoln – Books donation to BWH School Library; she was not present to present her idea.
  • Dorothy Richards – Back Pack to briefcase idea was to help to students from kindergarten through to the corporate world. Example is sending 50 backpacks to 50 students through B.W.H National every year. This is recommended to be a yearly project from the class of “78”; inquirers by Leuvet, making a donation to the school’s clinic maybe be possible. Leuvet said she is not prepared at this time to elaborate in detail about clinic project.

 

  • Comfort Chenoweth Warner express concerned about so many projects. There are too many projects and the class members need to be realistic. Be mindful of our chapter affiliations. All our commitments cost money and from what she has seen, every member has not paid their monthly class dues. The class has not decided on anything except the $19.78. She suggested that everyone bring in their proposal, discuss them and make decisions from there on. Sophie suggested that the ideas be brainstormed and tabled.
  • Milton Ricks suggested all ideas be placed together and tabled and presenters submit a report/write on his/her idea. Later the best proposal could be adopted. He asked everyone that has not paid their dues to please do so.
  1. Localized Contact: Milton asked members to reach out to other class mates and keep us informed of their well-being. Thomas mentioned that we are ageing, we need to be mindful of that.
  2. Report from Committee Members: Milton said that there was no committees to report. He took the opportunity to establish the Class 40th Reunion Planning Committee. The members are: Sheryl Collins, Cherrine Smith, Comfort Warner, Rev. Gifty Smith, Grace Brown, Jimmy Duncan, Thomas Grant and Eugene Bedell. Sheryl asked if there is a committee set up in Liberia to communicate with and Thomas agreed. Milton responded that members in USA and Liberia and formulating their respective plans; after Class of 78 USA has decided where the 40th Reunion will be held, both groups will synchronize their plans accordingly.

 

  1. General Business: Sheryl announced the Christmas party to be held December 12, 2015 at the home of the Grants in Newark, DE. She asked that everyone should try to attend. Leuvet said that the party is the sole purpose of relaxing and having fun. It’s not a fund raiser or a platform for meetings - just plain fun and hanging out with each other. Sheryl informed the group about the Secret Santa and asked that everyone participate and bring a gift not less than $19.78; Leuvet asked that her gift go to the American Kidney Fund. Dorothy went over the Christmas menu. Oretha contributed cleaning services for the Christmas event. The Grants announced that they have 3 extra bedrooms and it’s open to whomever need a place for the weekend. Milton reiterated that this is a fun event. He also suggested that we all make phone calls to reach out to all members for the class for this event.

Leuvet spoke about Aram’s suggestion of making payments via pay-pal. She was asked by Milton to look into pay-pal initiative and report later. Oretha had additional questions about credit union and bank payments; Thomas give some information about credit union payment modalities. Comfort asked the name of the class financial Institution. Leuvet responded that it is a non interest bearing checking account at Educational Credit Union.

 

  1. Announcements: Milton announced the webpage links to Face book, He stated that membership has not reached 50% but encouraged members to inform those not registered.

Sophie announced that her son Desmond is in a stage play in Washington DC, called “Unexploded Intentions” about the Rwanda Genocide. He is playing the lead role. She encouraged his “uncles and Aunts” to see his performance.

 

  1. Closing Prayers: Ciata Diggs

 

  1. Adjournment: Milton adjourned the meeting and next meeting date to be posted.

 

Dorothy van-Aurelia Richards, secretary

Date: Sunday, November 1, 2015

Teleconference

B.W. Harris “Class of 1978 USA” Meeting Minutes

Date: Friday, 14 August 2015 at 8:00PM

Place: Montgomery Village, Maryland, USA

Agenda

Theme:  “Where Do We Go From Here?”

Attendees:

  1. Aram Gibson
  1. Baindu Barclay-Browne
  1. Boima Johnson
  1. Ciata Diggs
  1. David Moore
  1. Dorothy Van-Aurelia Richards
  1. Edith Williams-Grant
  1. Eric Yhap
  1. Jackie Thorpe-Addy
  1. John T. Gabbidon
  1. Léuvet A. Stevens
  1. Margaret Decontee Brumskine-Ricks
  1. Milton N. Ricks
  1. Oretha Farkalun-Urey
  1. Roseline Sims
  1. Sheryl Collins
  1. Sophie Dunbar-Bing
  1. Thomas Grant [President Emeritus]
  1. Verlene Curtis-Torchiano
  1. Yassah Kargbo-Raymond

Agenda:

9:00     President Emeritus, Thomas Grant, made opening remarks about the B. W. Harris Class of 1978 resilience; Milton Ricks chaired and called the meeting to order.

Call to Prayer: Mrs. Baindu Barclay-Browne

Introduction of Theme: “Where do we go from here?”  Milton Ricks remarked about the abrupt passing of Pierre “Sholo” King and the profound impact thereof.  He indicated how challenging the effort was for few members to coordinate the “Class of 1978” participation in the burial ceremony; thus the theme.

9:30     Statistics of the Class of 1978 participation: Milton Ricks provided a statistical breakdown of the Class participation as provided by the 78ers’ website.  Statistics captured the numbers of identified 78ers with confirmed addresses - 114 members; of this number, 41.2% have visited the website and less than 20% of these members are active participants.

9:45     General Discussions: Sophie Dunbar-Bing commented that 78er Morris Gweh is confined and recommended that the Class provide some monetary support.  Class members present were all in agreement of such humanitarian gesture.  Milton Ricks initiated the fundraising and passed a plate around for contributions.  Class members were also informed that 78er John Wrimene was recently hospitalized.  It was suggested that as family, we need to reach out to John also.

Prior to the conclusion of the meeting, $200.00 (Two Hundred U.S. Dollars) was raised for our dear 78er, Morris Gweh.  The money was handed to Léuvet A. Stevens to obtain information on how to disburse the funds to Morris.  Léuvet noted that she would contact Alex Cummings for directions on how to have the money sent to Morris. We give GOD the glory for reminding us to be our brother’s keepers.

Multiple comments were presented encouraging members to reach out to other 78ers during normal times, instead of reaching out only during times of crises.

Milton Ricks commented how the website could be an excellent tool for communication. He shared how the survey for the 40th Reunion reflects Liberia as the venue chosen by most survey participants.  Cherrine Goodridge Smith was acknowledged for providing the Class with a website (myfamily.com) presence for over a decade, using her personal funds.

Léuvet Stevens encouraged members to pay their $19.78 monthly dues to sustain the Class administrative efforts.  She stated that a report that reflects the Class’ current financial status, will be disseminated to members.

It was echoed that members need to meet several times during the year for socializing and future event planning.

Eric Yhap suggested that the class purchase a life term group insurance that will be inexpensive, should we purchase as a group.  The suggestion was well taken and Eric was asked to provide additional information and share it with members via the Class website.

Mrs. Jackie Thorpe-Addy suggested that the class elect officers to administer class activities; Sheryl Collins supported these suggestions and majority of the members concurred.   A motion was made to elect officers to administer the Class of 1978 business and members were elected and installed into respective positions.  The newly elected officers are:

President:

Milton N. Ricks

Vice-President:

Sheryl A. Collins

Treasury:

Léuvet A. Stevens

Financial Secretary:

Roseline Sims

Secretary:

Dorothy Van-Aurelia Richards

Chaplain:

Ciata E. Diggs

9:50     After elections, officers were installed by Cllr. Margaret Deconte Brumskine-Ricks.

President Milton Ricks recommended that the Class By-laws and constitution be established within a month from today, Friday, August 14, 2015, to ensure orderly administration and transition of officers.

Cllr. Margaret Deconte Brumskine-Ricks was asked to establish the constitution and bylaws.  President Ricks encouraged the Class of 1978 honorary member, Cllr. Tilman “Nickie” Dunbar, to provide support to Cllr. Ricks should she request it.

Cllr. Ricks indicated that crafting the constitution and bylaws for the Class of 1978 was elementary.  She indicated that she will synopsize the constitution of the B.W. Harris Alumni Association in the USA, so that it is tailored to the Class of 1978, since we are germane to the association.

10:00   Mrs. Bindu Dunbar was recognized as an honorary member of Class of 1978, since she is

 the wife of the Class of 1978 honorary member, Cllr. Tilman “Nickie” Dunbar.

President Ricks thanked Léuvet Stevens for opening her home to the Class of 1978 for their meeting and after party.

 Closing Prayer:  Ciata E. Diggs said closing prayers.  Dinner was served by Léuvet Stevens and members wine and dined the rest of the evening.

Dorothy Van-Aurelia Richards, Secretary

Date: Friday, 14 August 2015 at 8:00PM

Place: Montgomery Village, Maryland, USA

 

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

78ers,

Thank you for participating in your “40th Reunion” discussions via teleconference on Sunday, March 11th. Your participation was extremely rewarding.

Special thanks to our 40th Reunion Chairperson, Cherrine Goodbride Smith for the Reunion planning updates and Leuvet A. Stevens for the Financial Management of our funds.

 

AGENDA

Sunday, March 11, 2018

40th Reunion Program

Call to Order:

Milton Ricks call to order the 40th Reunion Meeting of the class of 1978 at 7:45PM Eastern Standard Time.

 

1. PRAYERS

Chaplin, Ciata Diggs offered opening prayers.

 

2. ROLL CALL (25 Participants)

Cherrine Goodbride Smith (CHAIRPERSON), Milton Ricks, David Moore, Margaret Brumskine Ricks, Leuvet Stevens, Alfred Major, Annie Pritchard, Aram Gibson, Comfort Chenoweth Warner, Tonea Fowler, Pomey Greene, Thomas Grant, Edith Grant, Ciata Diggs, Gifty Roberts, Famatta Sambola Lincoln, Caroline Dennis Kobbah, Jimmy Duncan………

 

3. 40TH REUNION FINANCIAL UPDATES

Financial Administrator, Leuvet A. Stevens provided a detail payment report of members who have made payments to date. (Report has been mailed & texted to everyone and is posted on the class website)

 

4. 40TH REUNION PLANNING UPDATES

Chairperson, Cherrine Goodridge Smith provided a detailed summary of planned events, to include location, hotel accommodations, cost, class yearbook project etc. (informational flyer has been e-mailed and details posted on the class website)

5. QUESTIONS

Many questions and suggestions were proffered; it was agreed that all suggestions did not relate to the 40th Reunion agenda, however those unrelated suggestions will be addressed separately after the Reunion. Range and depth of questions were - 78ers contribution to B.W. Harris School; Cost of 40th Reunion; Planning Committee composition etc.

 

6. Announcements: (a) make reunion payments early (b) Submit old personal passport photos along with current photos for the Reunion Yearbook; submit school photos ASAP (c) reach out to other 78ers with 40th. Reunion information.

 

7. BENEDICTION

Ciata Diggs offered closing prayers.

 

Please look forward to the next teleconference in a few months.

 

Thank you,

Milton

 Minutes of 40th Reunion Teleconference Discussions

Sunday, 13th January 2019

7:00PM- 8:15PM

23 Participants [First Name ONLY, ALPHA Order]:

1

Alarie

2

Alex

3

Annie

4

Aram

5

Caroline

6

Cherrine

7

Comfort

8

Corneal

9

David

10

Deconte

11

Edith

12

Erma

13

Gifty

14

Leuvet

15

Milton

16

Pompey

17

Sheryl

18

Sophie

19

Theo

20

Thomas

21

Tonieh

22

Veryle

23

Wanda

 

  1. Prayer/ Salutations:  

 

M. Ricks called teleconference to order at 7:04PM and asked Comfort Chenoweth Warner to provide prayers.

 

  1. Post – 40th Reunion Financial Updates:  

Financial Secretary, Leuvet A. Stevens provided a detail breakdown of 40th Reunion expenses. She stated additionally that all receipts, contracts and checks are in her possession and will be forwarded to the class president for distribution to membership as the president sees fit. The class financial balance is $2010.25

Member, David Moore: Was deposit to hotel that was referenced in Financial Report returned to Class account?

Financial Secretary, Leuvet A. Stevens: Deposit was to hold hotel reservations for venue and not a deposit to be returned.

Member, Sophie Dunbar Bing: What is our account balance?

Financial Secretary, Leuvet A. Stevens: Our account balance is $2010.25.

Member, David Moore: Can I ask related questions about Reunion?

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: All may ask questions related to 40th Reunion activities as relates to finances.

Member, David Moore: Why did yearbook payment change?

40th. Reunion Chairperson, Cherrine Goodbridge Smith: Yearbook payment was never provided, only photos were solicited. Yearbook payment was to be provided after all photos were acquired and a cost determination made according to volume of photos submitted.

Member, Thomas Grant: Members should have received copy of financial report prior to discussion.

Financial Secretary, Leuvet A. Stevens: After accumulation of financial report and related support documents, report will be submitted to Officers only, the chapter president will decide how to share report with members.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: After I receive the financial report, I will redact report and share with members.

Member, Sophie Dunbar Bing: Financial report should not be distributed.

 

Member, Erma Browne: Financial report should be distributed.

Member, Thomas Grant: Financial report should be distributed.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: After I receive the financial report, I will redact report and share with members.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: Cherrine, Where are the photos that were taken at the reunion events?

40th. Reunion Chairperson, Cherrine Goodbridge Smith: I send a google link to photos for everyone to access and download, if you did to receive I can re-send.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks:  Please re-send link so I may post photos on the class webpage.

Member, David Moore: How much liquor was purchased and who paid for the liquors?

40th. Reunion Chairperson, Cherrine Goodbridge Smith: The liquor was paid for by the class – purchase some from Delaware and some from Maryland; I do not know what happened to the balance as I left before the end of the party.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: Dorothy Richards stated she was authorized by Cherrine to take deposit of drinks, I removed excess drinks from the refrigerator and loaded drinks into Roseline Simms vehicle to be transported to Dorothy Richards’ residence. I can ascertain from Dorothy Richards details thereof.

Member, Alex Cummings: Further detail is not necessary.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: Consider this matter resolved.

  1. Class Donation to B. W. Harris School:  

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: As per our by-laws we are dedicated to donate to B.W. Harris School in commemoration of our 40th Anniversary celebration. To this end, i am open to discussion thereof.

Additionally, the principal of B.W. Harris School did communicate with me that a PA system is on his wish list. I researched around the cost is approximately between $800-$1400. Shipping and installation are rough estimates and may require additional research to acquire realistic estimates.

 

Member, Pompey Greene: How many speakers will they need for each class room, auditorium etc.?

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: PA systems comes with a minimum quantity of speakers etc. and additions can be made as need be; such is what my research revealed.

Member, Thomas Grant: Can we get more details.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: I can ask the school principal to elaborate further and share with you as I have done. A PA system is such that it can be upgraded as required to accommodate addition components as need be, based upon my research.

Member, Aram Gibson: We should purchase the PA system.

Member, Alex Cummings: A committee should be setup to research PA system further and ensure we get a quality PA system.

Member, Gifty Roberts: There is no need for a committee; the President has spoken directly with the principal and knows what he wants.

Member, Sophie Dunbar Bing: Let’s get more than one (1) suggestion from the school. Also, why not pay one (1) person tuition for a year?

Member, Pompey Greene: Let’s give what they need as oppose to what we want.

Member, Tonieh Fowler: Paying a tuition for one (1) year? What about the year after? We should get three (3) immediate needs from the principal.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: I will communicate with the principal again and share your input; I will also clarify further the PA system request and share information with everyone. I will ask principal if he has additional suggestions.

Vice President, Sheryl Collins: I must exit teleconference call now as I must return to work; Mr. President, I will contact you later to receive updates on this meeting.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: Thank you Sheryl.

 

  1. Officers Elections / Schedule:  

 

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: per our bylaws, elections must be scheduled every two (2) years. I postponed elections because elections schedule conflicted with ongoing 40th Anniversary celebrations.

I have develop a process for an election committee appointed by me to conduct class elections; this process should take 15 days to implement.

 

Member, Alex Cummings: You should not appoint a committee. Volunteers would be best.

 

Member, Erma Browne: Volunteers would be best.

 

Member, Thomas Grant: Between 5 to 7 volunteers.

 

Member, Pompey Greene: Five (5) volunteers

 

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: I will now accept volunteers for the Class Elections Committee.

 

Volunteer # 1: Pompey Greene

Volunteer # 2: Erma Browne

Volunteer # 3: Leuvet A. Stevens

Volunteer # 4: Tonieh Fowler

Volunteer # 5: Thomas Grant, Election Committee Chairperson

 

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: How soon will committee conclude the elections?

Member, Pompey Greene: Thirty days (30)Class President, Milton N. Ricks: That is too long a time and unacceptable.

Member, Thomas Grant: 15 days; and committee members need to share phone numbers.Class President, Milton N. Ricks: Election Committee is now charged to proceed.

Member, Pompey Greene: On another Topic, I visited member Jed Deshield in his care facility and he is faring well considering his healthy; I informed Milton of my visit and texted him as well.  We must reach out to him. He is active, he is coherent and was pleased by updates of Reunion information and asked for others. He also is a chess champion in his health care center.

Class President, Milton N. Ricks: Thank you Pompey.

 

  1. Announcements:  

Class President, Milton N. Ricks:

The class give a tribute at professor’s Varfley Funeral; in attendance was Milton, David & Wife, Leuvet and Yassah.

We were informed of Una Momolu Thompson losing her father and aunt recently.

…… …………many members who lost love ones or knew of someone made mentioned, in addition to expressing thanks to the Class for reaching out with sympathy and support.

 

  1. Benediction:  

Comfort Chenoweth offered closing prayers.

 

Milton N. Ricks, Class President (2016/19) is the author of teleconference minutes; narratives are from the author’s recollection. Please direct any changes or corrections to the author.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DRAFT

Date: Sunday, 18 February 2019 at 8:16 PM

Teleconference call

Class of 1978 Officer Elections for 2019-2021

Attendees: 22 Callers:

1

Alexander Cummings

2

Ciata Diggs

3

Comfort Warner

4

Corneal Philips Monger

5

David G. Moore

6

Edith Williams Grant

7

Erma McBorrough Brown

8

Rev. Gifty Roberts Smith

9

Grace Smith Browne

10

Jackie Thorpe Addy

11

Leuvet A. Stevens

12

Margaret Decone Brumskine Ricks

13

Pompey Caesar Greene

14

Roseline Simms

15

Sheryl A. Collins

16

Theo Elliot

17

Theodosia Daniel Hoff

18

Thomas Hne Grant

19

Tonea Fowler

20

Victoria Ogamba Benson

21

Vyrle Karbar Killen

22

 

 

 

 

 
  1. Prayer

Class President, Milton Ricks provided opening prayers

  1. Roll Call

Class President Milton Ricks called attendance.

  1. Explanation of Election Procedures and Voting Rules

Class President Milton Ricks explained Election requirements as referenced in Class By-laws, responsibility of class president to call, administer elections and declare election results. Voting rules were also explained by examples.

  1. Elections

Conference was declared open for nominations by the Class President and the following officers were elected:

  1. Chaplain – M. Deconte Brumskine Ricks was nominated by David G. Moore; there were no competing nominees and by default M. Deconte Brumskine Ricks became Chaplain.

 

  1. Secretary – Sheryl Collins was nominated by Erma McBorrough Brown; there were no competing nominees and by default Sheryl Collins became Secretary.

 

  1. Financial Secretary – Pompey Greene was nominated by Leuvet Stevens; there were no competing nominees and by default Pompey Greene became Financial Secretary.

 

  1. Treasurer – David G. Moore was nominated by M. Deconte Brumskine Ricks; there were no competing nominees and by default David G. Moore became Financial Secretary.

 

  1. Vice President – Ciata Diggs was nominated by Tonea Fowler; there were no competing nominees and by default Ciata Diggs became Vice President.

 

  1. President – Sheryl Coll was nominated by Erma McBorrough Brown and Rev. Gifty Roberts Smith was Tonea Fowler; voting on the nominees was conducted and Rev. Gifty Roberts received the most votes and became president.

 

  1. Elections results was announced by the out going president and incoming officers were congratulated and welcome; administration of the Class leadership was turned over to Rev. Gifty Roberts Smith.

 

  1. Rev. Gifty Roberts Smith President elect, thanked the class for the opportunity to serve and encouraged everyone to join her in developing our class further as leaders.

 

  1.  M. Deconte Brumskine Ricks, Chaplain provided closing prayers.

 

Milton N. Ricks, Out Going Class President (2016/19) is the author of teleconference minutes; narratives are from the author’s recollection. Please direct any changes or corrections to the author.

Sunday, February 16, 2020

Meeting Minutes

General Meeting Agenda:

2020 first Conference Call for the Class of 1978 of B.W. Harris Episcopal High School, was February 16, 2020. The Call started at 6:00(central), 7:00(eastern).

 

We began with Opening Prayers; welcome was extended to everyone on the line. We followed the agenda with discussion and decisions.

a. Bereavement – we had some clarifications on our bereavement policy. After much discussion, we decided to set up the following:

- for any member losing a parent(s), spouse or significant other, child/children, we will ask for voluntary financial contributions from our members.

- and, other family members, the Class of 78 will pay a visit, call, offer support in terms of attending visitation or funeral service, and paying a tribute(if we have any members in the same area where such is being held). 15 members voted in favor of this policy.

b. Info on Class Project to BWH – Our Class was asked to purchase a new and improve PA System for the school. President Emeritus, Milton Ricks, has been in contact with the Principal of the school and with a local Liberian vendor to help get us the best system, at the right price. There has been some setbacks, but, we are back on course. More information will be forthcoming.

c. After our 40th Anniversary, what is next for us???? Suggestions were made:

Leuvet: a philanthropic project every 2 years in a State where we have 78’ers living. We can end the day with a Broadway Show, Concert, etc., etc. or just an evening of fun at a member’s home; depending on the State and what is available that weekend. 10 persons were in favor of this suggestion.

Ciatta Barclay Smith - stated we should follow the National Convention’s schedule. Wherever the convention is held, we can gather at a 78er home. 1 person was in favor.

Ciatta Diggs – Class of 78 can assist in purchasing items for the birth centers in Liberia(Maternity Center/JFK Hospital); 1 in favor.

Pompey Greene - within the tenure of this administration, we plan something for the class to celebrate our 45th anniversary. 3 persons were in favor.

After much discussions and corrections, the body decided to do a philanthropic project in a new community(State) every 2 years.

d. Financial Report – Leuvet made a detailed financial report. We have a bank balance of $2,021.25, after our 40th Class Anniversary. In the meantime, we had 39 class members plus 2 honorary members make a contribution in the amount of $3,647.00. This was given to Baindu Barclay Browne, on the death of her daughter, Lily Mae Peters. We also had 49 members plus 2 honorary members contribute the amount of $4,271 to George Jr-boy Askie on the death of his wife, Ayo Hickson Askie.

David G. Moore and Pompey Ceasar Greene, Treasurer and Financial Secretary for Class of 78, will travel to Maryland on February 29th, to meet up with Leuvet and have financial records transfer to their care; a new account will be established for Class of 78 with both brothers being signatories to the account. We like to express our heartfelt gratitude to God first, and, to our sister Leuvet for an outstanding job in handling our finances, and other things as assigned to her. Leuvet, thank-you.

We were reminded to pay our Class Dues of $19.78 monthly. There is so much we can do if we make that financial commitment to our Class.

e. Website – just a reminder that, we have a website for information purposes pertaining to our Class. We should make every effort to check out the website often. Also, our Chaplain, Deconte Brumskine Ricks, will be posting a monthly Inspiration, to help us along this journey of life. Please visit the website and give Conte some feedback.

f. Class Members – we have been informed that 3 of our class members(Jed Deshield, Charles Banks, and Eric Yhap) have and/or are dealing with health issues. It was decided that, members living in the state, will form a delegation and visit with them. The body also decided that, instead of waiting until someone passes, we should voluntarily raise a financial contribution and give to each member who is dealing with some health issue(s), as a gift from the class. Betty Glover’s name was also brought up. We were reminded that Class of 78 have stood with Betty through her illness and the death of her son. The voluntary financial contribution will be coordinated by our financial officers.

- Erma Mcborough Brown offered to make contact with Jed Deshield’s sister and forward the information to us.

- Joyce Sancho Moore said she would contact Charles Banks’ wife to get updated contact.

- David Moore stated that Eric “Butchie” Yhap, lives in his community, and would be willing to pay him a visit on behalf of the class.

g. Honorary Members – Leuvet was approached by Wilma Sleweon Harris(sister of Catherine Sleweon Tyler) asking to be an Honorary Member of the Class of 78. The clause in our Class By-Laws were read to remind everyone of Honorary Members. Currently, we have 4 Honorary Members. It was decided by the body to accept Wilma as our newest Honorary Member.

h. Miscellaneous - None

i. Closing Prayers – We had our closing prayers and the Call was adjourned.

Those on the Call were:

  1. Grace Smith Brown

  2. Leuvet Stevens

  3. David Moore

  4. Comfort Chenoweth Warner

  5. Theo Daniels Hoff

  6. Corneal Monger

  7. Ciatta Diggs

  8. Alare Wariebi Williams

  9. Vyrle Kabbah Killen

  10. Sheryl Collins

  11. Erma McBorough Brown

  12. John Wrimene

  13. Matu Mongomery

  14. Yassah Kargbo Raymond

  15. Ciatta Barclay Smith

  16. Pompey Greene

  17. Joyce Sancho Moore

  18. Gifty Roberts Smith

 

 

Excused:

  1. Milton and Conte Ricks

  2. Roseline Sims

  3. Victoria Ogamba Coleman

  4. Famatta Sambolah Hubbard

     

 

***Please Note: If we forgot anything or anyone, please feel free to send us the correction(s).