The
Liberian Association of Cleveland
Presents
THE REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA’S
RD
163 INDEPENDENCE DAY
CELEBRATION AND FUNDRAISER
BANQUET
Theme: “Education is the Key to Ensuring Immigrants’ Success and Independence”
LA C E
The Civic Conference and Event Center
3130 Mayfield Road
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Saturday, August 7, 2010 • 7:00PM - until
Souvenir Program Booklet
The strategic goal for success for the Liberian community is:
Quality Education • Professional Careers • Great Leadership
Liberian Association of Cleveland
P. O. Box 14448 ● Cleveland ● OH 44114
www.liberiansincleveland.org ● 216-577-3177
Program Booklet Designed by: Rufus and Joan Darkortey
Civic Conference and Events Center
Profile of the Liberian Association of Cleveland (LACE)
3130 Mayfield Road
The Liberian Association of Cleveland and its Environs (LACE) is a tax exempt, 501 (c) (3) (tax deductible), nonprofit
organization comprised mainly of individuals originating from the Republic of Liberia in West Africa. The organiza-
tion also welcomes individuals from other countries and backgrounds as friends of Liberia, and individuals that are
interested in the mission, vision, values, goals & objectives, and programs of the organization.
LACE is dedicated to (1) assisting Liberians and other individuals to achieve the American dream; (2) forming part-
nership with the city and people of Cleveland to address challenges facing the city; and (3) creating awareness among
its membership and others about issues confronting Liberia, a West African Country.
LACE was founded in the 1970s by Liberian students attending Cleveland State University with the purpose of ad-
dressing their social and cultural needs. While LACE continues to offer its members a means for social and cultural
expression, the organization has grown in scope. Today, LACE proudly partners with local organizations to provide
valuable services to worthy causes in the greater Cleveland community, provides monetary and material support to
Liberians residing in Liberia, and is ever more committed to helping Liberians in Cleveland to achieve the American
dream.
To promote community outreach and create awareness in the community, LACE has formed strategic partnerships
with local businesses, including Margaret Wong and Associates, Pernel Jones and Sons Funeral Home, La Boricana
Foods, Chareg Group, Maya’s Chique Afrique, Hookes African Foods, Graphical Conceptions, Kamoe Corner Store,
OneStop African Mart, and Coco’s Accessories. These businesses have been a pillar of support in our fundraising and
programming efforts. LACE has also partnered with government agencies such the Small Business Administration
and the U.S. Census Bureau to provide services to its membership. Additionally, LACE has partnered with the cities
of Cleveland, East Cleveland, and Bedford to fly the flag of Liberia in order to promote awareness of Liberian history
and diversity in the greater Cleveland area. Finally, LACE is proud to support local charities, including the Homeless-
ness Program of the City Mission of Cleveland and the Hunger Center of the Calvary Lutheran Church of East Cleve-
land.
As a volunteer run, nonprofit organization, the success of LACE depends on the generosity of its volunteer, members,
and partners. The organization’s ongoing fundraising campaign not only helps to fund valuable programs within the
Liberian community, including the Liberian Youth Scholarship fund, it also allows LACE to form strategic alliances
with other community organizations with a similar focus, such as the Nigerian Community of Greater Cleveland
(NCGC).
Therefore, we would like YOU to be a part of this exciting movement. Partner with LACE today! LACE is counting
on you!
Mission
The mission of the Liberian Association of Cleveland is to seek and provide information and resources that strengthen
the educational, social, and economic capacities of our members, individuals residing in our community, the City of
Cleveland and the Republic of Liberia, a West African country.
Vision
The vision of LACE is to be a very strong and professionally run organization that inspires its members, the greater
Cleveland community and Liberia to seek and leverage good education, strong social values, and economic opportuni-
ties that would improve their lives and communities.
Values
LACE is built and prides itself on the following values:
Honesty & Integrity • Care & Respect for all • Family, Community & Cultural values
Educational & Economic values • Excellence and Professionalism • Religious values
Civic Conference and Events Center
President’s Message
3130 Mayfield Road
On behalf of the Board, Officers, and members of the
Liberian Association of Cleveland and its Environs
(LACE), I would like to welcome you to the 163rd In-
dependence Day Celebration for the Republic of Libe-
ria. The official seal of Liberia proudly states “the
love of liberty brought us here.” This message re-
minds us that the pursuit of liberty and happiness are
at the core of why we take this time to celebrate the
independence of Africa’s first republic. Today, we,
the proud Liberians of greater Cleveland, extend our
profound love, civic pride and cultural heritage to you
and welcome you to this great occasion.
Over the past 4 years of my administration, LACE has
made many strides. Together, we have identified and
organized members of the Liberian community
through a census. We have invited the Small Business
Administration to teach our members how to start a
business. We have made contributions to organiza-
tions such as the Hunger Center of the Calvary Lu-
theran Church. We have helped our newly resettled
Liberians to assimilate in the greater Cleveland by
providing educational and vocational workshops. We
have organized soccer and kickball tournaments for
our youth. I thank you for your support in achieving
these wonderful accomplishments, but there is so
much more that needs to be done.
Proverbs 29:18 states “where there is no vision the people will perish.” A key part of my focus as President has
been to provide Liberians in Cleveland with a common vision – one that unites instead of divides, one that provides
us with a sense of civic pride and the desire to serve and finally, one that challenges us to achieve greater things to
ensure a brighter future. A key components of this vision is to have an organization that unites and inspires our
community. While achieving all of our goals may take some time, let us continue to stay focused and not grow
wary or tired in doing what is right.
As we celebrate, let us be reminded of this year’s theme “Education is the key to ensuring immigrants’ success and
independence.” Let us continue to promote education by going back to school, providing scholarships to our youth
to pursue higher education and cooperate with members who are using their educations for the betterment of our
community. It is only through education that we will progress as a community. So, I would like to encourage you
to continue to strive for excellence and to donate to our scholarship program to make the dream of a college educa-
tion a reality for a child in our community.
Finally, I would like to give special recognition to our keynote speaker, Margaret Wong, Esq. of Margaret Wong &
Associates, and other distinguished guests, including Mayor Frank Jackson, Senator Nina Turner, Congressman
Dennis Kucinich and others. Thank you for extending your love and concern to Liberians in Cleveland. While it
would be impossible to list every individual who has contributed their time and resources to making this community
great, I would like to thank all the members and supporters of LACE for your many generous contributions. Your
unwavering support of the Liberian community and its programs throughout the years has helped our community to
grow and become a beacon of hope in the greater Cleveland community.
Thank you once again for your support and you are most welcome!
Rufus N. Darkortey
President, Liberian Association of Cleveland (LACE )
Civic Conference and Events Center
3130 Mayfield Road
Civic Conference and Events Center
3130 Mayfield Road
3130 Mayfield Road
A Brief History of Liberia
STRIPES
OF
FRIENDSHIP
The Flag of Liberia The Flag of the United States
Liberia was founded by the American Colonization Society
(ACS) in the early 1800s to resettle freed individuals back
in Africa during the abolition of slavery. The country later
gained her Independence on July 26, 1847.
Most of the individuals that were settled in Liberia origi-
nated from the United States of America. As a result, many
of the settlements and other places in Liberia were named
after Americans and American cities and States. For exam-
ple, Sinoe County of Liberia was once called Mississippi in
Africa because most of its inhabitants originated from the
southern State of Mississippi; Maryland of Liberia was
named after the State of Maryland.
Additionally, some of the former presidents of Liberia were
Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf born and raised in the United States of America. For exam-
24th Head of State of the Republic of Liberia ple, Joseph Jenkins Roberts of Norfolk, Virginia; Edward
Madam Sirleaf is the first female to ever be elected James Roye of Norwalk, Ohio; and Alfred Francis Russell
as a president in the entire history of Africa of Kentucky.
The historic close relationship and friendship between Liberia and the United States has allowed the capital city of Li-
beria to be called Monrovia, in honor of President James Monroe. As a result of the closeness, Liberia is considered to
be a very good friend of the United States. Additionally, the country is considered the United States in Africa.
A period of consecutive bad governance has weakened the country’s ability to be developed – A situation which led to
a 14 years of civil war, which ended by President Bush forcing Charles Taylor into exile. Charles Taylor is currently
facing world crime tribunal in the Hague for crimes allegedly committed against humanity in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
The country is striving to develop by electing the first female president of Africa, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, a Harvard and
World Bank trained economist. Although much effort is being made to rebuild the country, the country is still strug-
gling to overcome an unemployment rate of 85 percent, poverty rate of 90 percent, the lack of road networks, etc. The
country has enormous opportunities to be developed given her abundance natural resources, including iron ore, timber,
gold, diamond, potential discovery of oil of its seacoast, etc. As it stands, many international figures have visited the
country and expressed their commitment to form a partnership with Liberia in the area of private sector development
by establishing foreign companies in the country. Amongst those that have visited the country are Oprah Winfrey,
Robert Johnson of BET, and George Soros a billion businessman and philanthropist.
The Liberian Association of Cleveland wishes to thank President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for always sending a recorded
video message our community during the celebration of our country Independence.
Long Live the Republic of Liberia!
Civic Conference and Events Center
Liberian and U.S. National Anthems 2009-2010 LACE Honorees
3130 Mayfield Road
Distinguished Clevelander
Margaret Wong, Esq.
Rev. Dr. Mulbah Borsay
Plain Dealer
Cleveland Clinic
All hail, Liberia, hail! All hail!
All hail, Liberia, hail! All hail! Distinguished Citizens
This glorious land of liberty John Coleman
Shall long be ours. Prester Pickett
Though new her name,
Green be her fame, LACE Volunteers Award Recipients
And mighty be her powers,
Jackie Collins Malo Diallo
Though new her name, Jamila Martins Talemani “T. K.” Borsay
Green be her fame, Gladys Davis Aaron Slocon
And mighty be her powers, Beatrice Davis Janjay Bass
And mighty be her powers. Laurine Lawrence Jackson Seo, Sr.
And mighty be her powers. Duana Nyei Theresa Caine
1! 2! 3! 4! David Sarko Amos Caine
Betty Sarko Vledy Soe
In joy and gladness Barbara Vah Roseline Hampton
With our hearts united, Donnell Timmons Rev. Himi-Budu Shannon
We'll shout the freedom Miketta Timmons Rev. Napoleon Karr
Of a race benighted, John Crawford Lemay Butler
Long live Liberia, happy land! Hilary Wilson, Esq. Patrick Cooper
A home of glorious liberty, Elizabeth W. Brown Sangai Cooper
By God's command! Saedekon Butler Joan Curran Darkortey
A home of glorious liberty, Garmai Matthew Robert Coleman
By God's command! Henrietta Kelley Johnetta Marshall
Joshua “Baby T” Sailey Bendu Thompson
Priscilla Taylor Teddy Sailey
Korpo Williamson Soma Nagbe
Oh, say can you see
by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed
at the twilight's last gleaming
Whose broad stripes and bright stars
thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched
were so gallantly streaming
And the rocket's red glare,
the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night
that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner
yet wave
O'er the land of the free
We Congratulate and support
and the home of the brave
The Liberian Community and Liberia on
her 163rd Independence Day
Civic Conference and Events
1st Annual Distinguished Clevelander Center Recipients
3130 Mayfield Road
Award
Margaret W. Wong, Esq.
The Distinguished Clevelander Award is presented to Ms. Wong in recognition of her continuous
support for the Greater Cleveland community and economic development of the city of Cleve-
land by providing jobs, supporting charitable causes, providing quality immigration, legal ser-
vices and products and many other opportunities.
Ms. Wong is the Founder/Manager of the Margaret W. Wong & Associates Co., L.P.A. The law
firm is nationally and internationally renowned for its knowledge and expertise in immigration
and nationality law. She has won many great awards during the span of her remarkable career,
including: the 2004 - 2007 "Super Lawyer" in Cincinnati Magazine, a distinction reserved for the
top 5% of lawyers., the "Best Lawyers in America.", the 1997 Creative Philanthropy Award from
the Women's Community Foundation and the Leadership Award from the United Black Fund.
Congratulations!
Rev. Dr. Mulba Borsay
The Distinguished Clevelander Award is presented to Rev. Dr. Borsay in recognition of his con-
tinuous support for the Liberian community in Cleveland, the economic development of the city
of Cleveland by providing jobs, supporting charitable causes and meeting the religious needs of
the community in a quality way, as well as supporting the moral development of our community
Rev. Borsay graduated from the Cuyahoga Community College with a degree in Architectural
and Construction Engineering Technology. He also graduated from the Cleveland State with a
degree in Civil Engineering. He worked on many large projects, including many of the large
buildings in the Cleveland area, wastewater treatment plants, etc. He is the Pastor of the Cal-
vary Lutheran Church in East Cleveland. Congratulations!
The Cleveland Plain Dealer
The Distinguished Clevelander Award is presented to the Cleveland Plain Dealer in recognition
of its continuous support for the community and economic development of the city of Cleveland
by providing jobs, quality news products and many other opportunities.
The Plain Dealer is Ohio's largest daily newspaper, with 1.3 million readers in print and on cleve-
land.com weekly. It has been a part of the Greater Cleveland landscape for over 165 years.
The Plain Dealer ranks in the top 20 United States newspapers in circulation and has won
awards in editorial, photographic and production excellence in local, state, regional and national
competitions, including the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary in 2005.
Congratulations!
The Cleveland Clinic
The Distinguished Clevelander Award is presented to the Cleveland Clinic in recognition of to its
continuous support for the community and economic development of the city of Cleveland by
providing jobs, quality world class medical care and services and many other opportunities.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center that employs over 2,000 physicians.
Per en.wikipedia.org, the thirteen specialties at the Cleveland Clinic were ranked among the
best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in 2009: heart (cardiology) and cardiac surgery
(#1); digestive disorders (gastroenterology) (#2); urology (#2); rheumatology (#2); orthopedic
surgery (#3); nephrology (#4); respiratory disorders (pulmonology) (#5), etc.
Congratulations!
The Distinguished Clevelander Award is established by the Liberian Association of Cleveland (LACE) to rec-
ognize the great work that was/is being performed by certain individuals and businesses to promote the strength, de-
velopment and success of the people and City of Cleveland.
LACE is a nonprofit tax-exempt 501 (c ) (3) organization with a mission to pursue the goals of this award.
Therefore, the Distinguished Clevelander Award is presented to businesses and individuals that are significantly pro-
viding jobs, supporting charitable causes, providing services and products of great value to Cleveland and inspiring
growth and development in the city. Please feel free to nominate the names of individuals and businesses that could
be presented with this award.
The Guest Speaker - Margaret W. Wong, Esq.
In more than thirty years of practice, Margaret Wong has built Margaret W.
Wong & Associates Co., L.P.A. into a law firm nationally and internationally
renowned for its knowledge and expertise in immigration and nationality law.
Ms. Wong is the current co-chair of the Immigration Law Committee for the Na-
tional Asian Pacific American Bar Association.
Ms. Wong has received the highest rating, AV, from Martindale-Hubbell, based
on both legal ability and general-ethics standards. Her peers have named her a
"Leading Lawyer," an exclusive list that has been published in Inside Business
Magazine since 2001. She is listed as a 2004 - 2007 "Super Lawyer" in Cincin-
nati Magazine, a distinction reserved for the top 5% of lawyers. She has also
been listed as one of the "Best Lawyers in America."
Margaret Wong is a civic leader who educates and inspires others. While she was
serving as the first Asian-American president of the Cleveland Chapter of the
Federal Bar Association, the Cleveland chapter won the coveted Chapter Activity
Award. The Ohio Supreme Court appointed her a charter member of the Continu-
ing Legal Education Commission for attorneys, where she is currently serving as
a member of its Racial Task Force. She is also a life member of both the Eighth
Judicial District Court and the Federal Sixth Circuit Court.
Ms. Wong has presented numerous seminars on immigration and naturalization law for bar associations and the public. Committed
to giving something back to the community and to mentoring young professionals, she has volunteered her time and expertise on
boards of diverse organizations, including Notre Dame College, Cuyahoga Community College Foundation, Northeast Ohio Coun-
cil on Higher Education, Cleveland Bar Foundation, Ohio State Bar Foundation, American Immigration Lawyers Association,
Asian Bar Association, Town Hall, University Hospitals Health System, St. Vincent Hospital Health Care System, United Way
Services, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, and the Cleveland State University, SUNY University at Buffalo Law School,
and Case Western Reserve University Law School Advisory Boards.
Margaret Wong has won numerous awards, including two for philanthropy: the Margaret Ireland Award from the Cleveland
Women's City Club and the 1997 Creative Philanthropy Award from the Women's Community Foundation. She has also been hon-
ored by St. Vincent Charity Hospital at the 2007 National Philanthropy Day Luncheon. Crain's Cleveland Business has named her
to their "Women of Influence" list and Cleveland Magazine has included her with its "Most Interesting People." Margaret Wong
also received the highly coveted Ellis Island Medal of Honor in May 1998 for her outstanding achievements and contributions to
the multicultural fabric of the United States. She was inducted into the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame in 2000. Other honors and
awards include an Outstanding Alumni Award from State University of New York at Buffalo as well as from the University at
Buffalo Law School, the Trailblazer Award from NAPABA, Kent State University's Social Responsibility Award, and the Leader-
ship Award from the United Black Fund.
Because of her personal experience as an immigrant, Margaret Wong combines qualities Americans admire: an immigrant's work
ethic, an entrepreneur's drive, a keen sense of resourcefulness, and the utmost compassion for those in need. In 1950, Margaret
Wong was born in the former British Colony of Hong Kong. Months earlier, her Chinese parents fled the political repression and
civil war caused by the Communist takeover of China. In the late 1960s, she came to the United States on a student visa,
with little money and big dreams. She worked as a waitress to pay her way through college and law school. She attended Western
Illinois University to acquire her bachelor’s degree, followed by the State University of New York, University at Buffalo Law
School where she received her J.D. in 1976. In light of a 1973 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, she became one of the first non-U.S.
citizens licensed to practice law in New York and Ohio. She is now a U.S. citizen.
Based on her own experience of obtaining a green card and U.S. citizenship under U.S. immigration law, Margaret Wong recog-
nized that companies and individuals need sound guidance in this highly regulated, seemingly arcane, and sometimes frustrating
regulatory area. She founded Margaret W. Wong & Associates with one desk and no secretary. Her practice now includes over 45
other staff members, from attorney’s to support staff.
Over the last two decades Margaret Wong has helped employers obtain work permits for their executives and has assisted thou-
sands of people in coming to the United States to become permanent residents, advance their educations, work, and pursue oppor-
tunities. Her clients come from every country around the world, from every walk of life, and range from governmental and corpo-
rate to ordinary people. The law firm's talented team handles every kind of immigration problem; its staff is multilingual, with pro-
ficiency in languages including Serbian, Romanian, Punjabi, Lithuanian, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, Albanian, Russian, Span-
ish, French, Korean, and Polish. Executives and large law firms seek her help when they have tough immigration problems. She is
known for speed, quality, honesty, and persistence.
Margaret W. Wong & Associates currently has offices located in Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio, New York, New York, Brook-
lyn, New York, Atlanta, Georgia and Detroit, Michigan. She is admitted for practice in Ohio, New York, the District of Columbia.
Speakers & Friends of the Liberian Community
Margaret W. Wong, Esq.
Ms. Wong is the guest speaker at the 163rd Independence Day Celebration of the Republic of
hosted Conference and Events Center
Liberia Civicby the Liberian Association of Cleveland on August 7, 2010.
Ms. Wong is an accomplished and world renowned immigration attorney. She is founder and
principal partner of Margaret W. Wong and Associates law firm, an international firm. Ms.
Wong is also a writer and humanitarian.
Mayor Gary Norton, Jr.
Hon. Gary Norton is the mayor of East Cleveland. He served as the distinguished guest
speaker at the Republic of Liberia's 163rd Independence Day pre-event on July 23, 2010 at
the City Hall of Cleveland.
Mayor Norton was elected Mayor of the City of East Cleveland in September 20, 2009.
Senator Nina Turner
Ohio State Senator Nina Turner served as the guest speaker at the 2009 Liberian Independ-
ence Day celebration. Senator Turner delivered a powerful and well received message.
Senator Turner was unanimously selected by the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus to serve
the people of the 25th Senate District and was sworn into office on September 17, 2008.
U. S. Congressman Dennis Kucinich
U. S. Congressman and former Democratic Presidential candidate, Dennis Kucinich, made
congratulatory remarks at the 162nd Independence Day Celebration of the Republic of Libe-
ria. Congressman Kucinich praised Liberians in Cleveland for helping to promote diversity in
the city.
He served as Cleveland's City Councilman at age 23 and as mayor in 1977 at the age of 31.
His great leadership is helping to promote diversity in Cleveland and on Capital Hill.
Mayor Frank G. Jackson
The Mayor of the City of Cleveland, Hon. Frank G. Jackson made congratulatory remarks at
LACE's 2009 event, honoring the 162nd Independence Day of the Republic of Liberia. The
program was held at the Rotunda of the City Hall of Cleveland, Ohio. Mayor Jackson praised
Liberians in Cleveland for helping to promote diversity in the city and for being a part of the
solution in Cleveland. Mayor Jackson is the 56th Mayor of Cleveland. Mayor Jackson is pro-
moting diversity, leadership and development in Cleveland.
Councilman Joe Cimperman
Cleveland City Councilman of Ward 3, Joe Cimperman, served as guest speaker at the Re-
public of Liberia's 162nd Independence Day pre-event on July 17, 2009 at the Cleveland City
Hall. Councilman Cimperman praised Liberians in Cleveland for helping to promote diversity
and for being a part of the solution in Cleveland. We recognize and thank him for sponsoring
this event and for being a strong community leader and supporter of LACE. His compassion-
ate leadership is promoting diversity and community outreach in Cleveland.
Commissioner Peter Lawson Jones
One of the three Cuyahoga County Commissioners, Peter Lawson Jones, served as guest speaker at
the 161st Independence Day Celebration of the Republic of Liberia. Commissioner Jones speech was
remarkably uplifting. He encouraged Liberians to take advantage of the many opportunities the county
offers. He pledged and has formally proclaimed his support to the Liberian community. Commis-
sioner Jones is the only African-American county commissioner in the State of Ohio. He is promoting
diversity, leadership, and development in Cuyahoga county.
Civic Conference and Events Center
Liberian Association In The Community
3130 Mayfield Road
L
U.S. SBA at LACE Meeting U.S. Census Bureau and LACE donating to
LACE promoting census the Calvary Hunger Center
LACE youth sporting events U. S. Census Bureau and 2009 Fashion Show
LACE promoting census
Liberia’s flag flown over 3 City Liberians at the 2010 Liberians at the 2010
Halls in 2010: Cleveland, International Folk Festival Independence Day Event at
East Cleveland & Bedford the City Hall of Cleveland
C
The
Liberian Association of Cleveland
Presents
Liberia’s 163rd Independence Day Celebration and Fundraising Banquet
Mr. Asu Pelima
Master of Ceremony
Former President, LACE
Theme: “Education is the Key to Ensuring Immigrants’ Success and Independence”
Invocation……………………………………………...……...…………….................... Rev. William Hookes
Chaplain, LACE
Introduction of the Occasion………………………………………..…….…. …...…….....Mr. Cyrus Quanteh
LACE Youth
Singing of the U.S. and Liberian National Anthems………....………………………………..…...…Audience
Liberian Traditional Drumming and Dance Performance…..……………………….……....……LACE Youth
Joshua Sailey, Lemay & Saedekon Butler and Garmai Matthew
Dinner Served……………………………………..………………………………...…...…Mrs. Jackie Collins
Independence Day Program Chair, LACE
Musical Performance…………………………………..………………………………………….Teddy Sailey
LACE Youth
Traditional Liberian Story………………………………………………………………….….Mr. Duana Nyei
Member, LACE
Recognition of Special Distinguished Guests……………Mayor Frank Jackson, Senator Nina Turner, others
Liberian Cultural Dance Performance………………………………………..African Dream Dance Company
LACE Youth
Special Independence Day Video Message……………………………………..Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
President, The Republic of Liberia
Presentation of the Cultural Heritage of Liberia…………………………………..Mrs. Joan Curran Darkortey
Member, LACE
Presentation of Scholarship Awards…….……………………………………..….The Scholarship Committee
Ms. Janjay Bass and Mr. Duana Nyei
Special Song Selection…………………………..……….……………………………….Mr. Robert Coleman
Friend of LACE
Note: Free items would be given throughout the event
3130 Mayfield Road
Introduction of the Guest Speaker……………………………………………………….Pastor Napoleon Karr
The Mountain of the Lord Church and Member of LACE
The Guest Speaker…………………...………………………………………………...Ms. Margaret W. Wong
Renowned Immigration Lawyer
Founder/Manager - Margaret Wong and Associates Immigration Law Firm
President’s Remarks and Presentation of Awards and Certificates…………..……….….Mr. Rufus Darkortey
President, LACE
Liberian Cultural Fashion Show………………………………..………………...Mrs. Joan Curran Darkortey
Member, LACE
Musical Performance……………………………………………………………………….…...Dynamic Crew
LACE Youth
Vote of Thanks…………………………………………………...………………...…Ms. Elizabeth W. Brown
Board Member, LACE
Benediction………….………………………………………………………………….Rev. Dr. Mulba Borsay
Pastor, Calvary Lutheran Church, Chairman, LACE Board
The Famous Liberian Grand March
(Grab your partner and get on the dance floor)
IT’S PARTY TIME!
LET’S CELEBRATE LIBERIA’S INDEPENDENCE
AND DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!!!
Special Thanks from the Liberian Community
As Liberia celebrates 163 years of independence we come together to honor not only our beloved country, but
each and every one of you who stand as shining examples of a proud and rich culture. The Liberian Association
of Cleveland would like to thank the countless supporters, sponsors, patrons and friends who have come together
to make this evening and this organization a success.
We commend the businesses, large and small, including Margaret Wong and Associates Immigration Law Firm,
Pernel Jones and Sons Funeral Home, La Boricana Foods, Graphical Concepts, Maya Chique Afrique, Hookes
African Food Mart, Available Tax Services, Kamoe Corner Store, OneStop Shop African Food Mart, Coco’s Ac-
cessories, and the Radical Shipping that have donated their services, time and resources. We thank local politi-
cians and city officials, pastors, teachers and parents, including Mayor Frank Jackson, Congressman Dennis
Kucinich, Senator Nina Turner, Mayor Gary Norton, Jr., Mayor Daniel Pocek, Director Blain Griffin, Council-
man Joe Cimperman, and many others who in spite of their busy schedules are always willing to support our mis-
sion of promoting diversity, education and social service, graciously offering their time, wisdom and kind
patience. We also commend David Montgomery for giving us free Cavaliers tickets.
We congratulate our youth and wish them continued success as they graduate high school and college, and thank
them in advance as they prepare themselves to become the leaders of tomorrow, reminding us that education is
the key to the empowerment and betterment of our country and community. Lastly, we thank the individuals who
selflessly came together to make this event possible and we thank You for your presence and continued support!
Happy 26th everyone!
The Liberian Association of Cleveland (LACE)
Civic Conference and Events Center
2010 Scholarship Recipients
Of the Liberian Association of Cleveland Scholarship Program
Lemay Butler
3130 Mayfield Road of this year scholarship. She is very
Lemay Butler is a proud recipient
serious about her education, but also found the time to competitively
participate in track and field throughout her four years of high school.
Lemay was a part of the Conflict Mediation program for three out of the
four years of her high school career. She also completed the Medical
Careers Vocational Program and maintained a 3.4 GPA. Lemay is look-
ing forward to starting a strong academic career in college.
She supports the Liberian Association of Cleveland by performing cul-
tural dances and modeling. Congratulations!
Garmai K. Matthew
Garmai Matthew is a proud recipient of this year scholarship. She re-
cently graduated from high school with a 3.5 GPA. She was involved in
many extracurricular activities are while in school. She served as the
student council president and VASJ dance team founder & choreogra-
pher. She was actively involved in religious activities at school and is
also involved in her church. She is member of the National Honor Soci-
ety.
Garmai is a supporter of the Liberian community of Cleveland. She per-
forms Liberian cultural dances and models at events. Congratulations!
Past Recipients of the Liberian Association Scholarship Program
The Liberian Association of Cleveland
Donated to the Scholarship Program
of the Nigerian Community of Greater Cleveland (NCGC)
The Scholarship Program of the NCGC is one of the first recipients of the Li-
berian Association of Cleveland Scholarship Program. LACE believes in ex-
tending beyond the Liberian community and partnering with other community
Musu Welwolie Monah Gbolie organizations that provide scholarships to deserving youths.
The Scholarship Program of the Liberian Association of Cleveland started in December of 2008 under the administration
of Rufus Darkortey. The objective of the program is to encourage higher education within our community.
Our objective is to encourage our youth and adults to become the next generation of doctors, lawyers, economists, journal-
ists, chemists, presidents, professional athletes, entertainers, pilots, city leaders, community leaders within the Liberian
community.
This program is expected to change lives and make a difference within our community. Therefore, we are counting on your
generous support of the program. Our goal this year is to raise about $2,000.00 for the program. Your donation is tax ex-
empt. You may write your check to: Liberian Association of Cleveland - P. O. Box 14448, Cleveland, OH 44114
Civic Conference and Events Center
3130 Mayfield Road Jackie Collins and Family
Congratulate
The Liberian Community and
Liberia on her
163rd Independence Day
May God Continue to
Bless Liberia.
Long Live the
Republic of Liberia!
Long Live the
Liberian Community
of Cleveland
Jackie Collins - Chairlady of the 2010 Independence Day Program Committee
LACE Featured Liberian of Excellence!
DR. KORBOI N. EVANS
Dr. Korboi Nehemiah Evans is
a Liberian. He graduated from
high school at 15. He graduated
Suma Cum Laude at age 19
from the University of Akron.
He turned down acceptance at
Harvard University and Yale
University to be close to his
father. He graduated at the top
of his class from the School of
Medicine at Case Western Uni-
versity.
Dr. Korboi Evans works at the
Walter Reed Army Medical
Center, Washington, DC where
he is a Board certified
orthopedic surgeon. He has the
rank of Major in the US Army
and the Navy. In May of this
year, he married beautiful Dr.
Patricia Wells.
LACE Congratulates You!
Civic Con-
Rufus and Joan Darkortey
Congratulate
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day!
We are proud of our Liberian heritage
and blessed to be a part of this wonderful celebration!
Civic
The Flag of Nigeria The Flag of Liberia
The Nigerian Community of Greater Cleveland (NCGC)
Congratulates
The Liberian Community of Cleveland and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day!
We are proud to celebrate the Nigerian, Liberian, and African cultural heritage.
Long live the Nigerian Community of Cleveland!
Long live the Liberian Community of Cleveland!
Long live Nigeria and Liberia!
We cherish our friendship and partnership!
Patrick & Sangai Cooper
Congratulate
The Liberian Community
and Liberia on her
163rd Independence Day
Cheers to the
Republic of Liberia!
May God bless our
Country!
The Chareg Group, LLC
Congratulate
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her
163rd Independence Day
May God Continue to Bless Liberia!
Patrick Cooper
Founder
Long Live the Republic of Liberia!
The Chareg Group, LLC’s
829 Sabina Circle
Bear, DE 19701
Tel: 888-826-6026
Tag line/Motto: Technology at Your Fingertips
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Co nfe
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an d
Ev ent
s Ce
nt er
31 30
Ma
yfi eld
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The Cooper-Milton-Williams Family
Congratulates
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day May God Bless Liberia!
1 Family 1 Foundation
Rev. Dr. Mulba Borsay , Pastor
Calvary Lutheran Church
Congratulates Parents Stop! Don't Give Up, There is Hope!
The Liberian Community and Liberia on A newly released book by Elizabeth W. Brown
her 163rd Independence Day This insightful book presents a message of hope and encourage-
May God Continue to Bless Liberia! ment to all parents especially those struggling with difficult chil-
dren. This book offers Christian parenting techniques designed to
Come and worship with us on address common challenges. It also provides helpful information
on praying for your children, accepting God’s help and guidance;
Sundays at 11:00 AM at and trusting Him with your children. If you are a parent struggling
with your child’s behavior, discouraged, hurting, frustrated and
13101 Euclid Ave. feeling helpless and don't know where to turn or what else to do,
this book is for you. This is our experience.
East Cleveland, OH 44112
The book is available for sale at Amazon.com, by E-mail:
216- 451-1151 parentsstopthereishope@yahoo.com or by Phone: (216) 570-2599
Malo is a
professional hair stylist
at
Headlines by De'Franco
5160 Wilson Mills Rd
Richmond Hts, OH 44143
(440) 605-0500
Malo Borsay Diallo
Congratulates
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day
May God bless you all!
Elizabeth W. Brown is a native
Liberian and the Founder and
Director of Impacting Lives for
Christ Ministries (ILCM). Impacting
Lives for Christ is a nonprofit or-
ganization. Ms. Brown is currently
building a mission school in Libe-
ria to educate war-ravaged, disad-
vantaged students.
ILCM
P. O. Box 21022,
South Euclid, Ohio 44121
Email: Impactinglife@sbcglobal.net
Elizabeth W. Brown and Her Liberian Students
Congratulate
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day.
Thank God for His blessings upon the children of Liberia!
The Curran and Darkortey Families
Congratulates
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day!
We wish you all God’s blessing during this celebration.
Duana and Fatu Nyei
Congratulate
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day
May God Continue to Bless Liberia. Long Live the Republic of Liberia!
Civic Conference and Events Center
HOOKES AFRICAN FOOD MART
3130 Mayfield Road
At Hookes African Food Mart
We sell varieties of Liberian, African,
American and Caribbean
food, clothing, phone cards, and bev-
erages at everyday very low prices.
Hookes African Food Mart is your
Country away from your Country
because we sell you varieties of foreign products that are also found in your country.
Please contact us at 216-261-0553 and Mr. and Mrs. Williams and Ramona Hookes will
be glad to serve you in a very friendly and professional way. We are located on 917 E222
St, Euclid OH, 44123
Williams and Ramona Hookes
Congratulate
The Liberian Community and Liberia on her 163rd Independence Day! May God bless Liberia!
Meet the Sponsors and Partners of the Liberian Community of Cleveland
OneStop African
Mart
216-692-3744
COCOS Accessories
216-271-6611
Leaders of the Liberian Association of Cleveland
Executive Team Board of Directors
Rufus Darkortey………….President Rev. Dr. Mulba Borsay……..Chairman
McArthur Welwolie……...Vice President Elizabeth Brown…………….Secretary
Torbor Wonokay…………General Secretary Hilary Wilson, Esq………….Member
Emma Welwolie………….Financial Secretary Joseph Butler………………..Member
Steven Pelima…………….Treasurer Pryde Bass…………………..Member
William Hookes…………..Chaplain
Civic Conference and Events Center
LA BORICANA FOODS
3130 Mayfield Road
We are the home of Imported Foods from all over the
Caribbean, Central and South America, and Africa
2127 Fulton Road Enrique Muniz, Jr.
Cleveland, OH 44113 Owner
we sell you the best of foreign foods, beverages, fruits, clocks,
key chains, phone cars, dried, fresh and smoke fish and others
at very LOW PRICES you cannot find anywhere.
We are opened throughout the week. Call 216-651-2351
LA BORICANA FOODS
Congratulates
Liberians and Liberia on its 163rd Independence Day
Congratulations on this wonderful accomplishment!
PERNEL JONES & SONS FUNERAL HOME
7120 Cedar Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44103
216-431-9205
We Offer Quality
Funeral Services
At Reasonable Prices
Congratulations to the
Liberia Community and Liberia
on its 163rd Independence Day!
Pernel Jones & Sons Funeral Home is a long standing supporter of Liberian
causes, the concerned friends of Africa and the Third World African Music
Program on radio station WELW 1230 where Liberian issues are discussed.
We support organizations and individual that support us.
Headquarters
3150 Chester Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44114
P: 216-566-9908 • F: 216-566-1125
wong@imwong.com • www.imwong.com
MARGARET W. WONG Atlanta ~ Cleveland ~ Columbus ~ Detroit ~ New York
PRESIDENT / MANAGING PARTNER
Margaret W. Wong & Associates: International Immigration Lawyers is dedi-
cated to providing high quality, efficient, prompt services to both corporate
and individual clients in immigration to the United States.
MWW has over 60 years of combined experience in the field of immigration
or naturalization and is licensed to practice law in the U. S and the world
Margaret Wong & Associates offer the following services:
Family Visas Non-Immigrant Visas
Marriage Interview Tips Immigrant Visas
Travel Documents Criminal Alien Issues
Work Visas Asylum
Immigration for Employers Deportation, Removal, Exclusion
Health Care Immigration Federal Court Litigation
Green Cards: Permanent Residency Board of Immigration Appeals
Citizenship and Naturalization
Margaret Wong & Associates
Congratulates
Liberians and Liberia on its 163rd Independence Day
Congratulations and Best Wishes!