Message From the Executive Committee

Happy Thanksgiving



As we all approach the Thanksgiving, let’s think of those who are not fortunate as we are. Muadi Mukenge had recently made a call for action in her heart rending report. Let’s not forget her challenge. As we share the meals and friendship, there are people of Cibomba Cimuanyi, the internally displaced people that we have adopted to help. Instead of an extra helping of Turkey, stuffing, mash potatoes or pumpkin pie, put a small donation aside to help us complete we started. Send your donation using your credit card on Leja Bulela website.



KHMC Update.
By now, you might have heard the KMHC building structure is completed (recent photos will be posted on our website). There are, however, several finishing touches that remain to be completed; i.e. painting, glass windows, landscaping, and furnishing. Recently our treasurer made another payment toward the balance owed for the work already completed. The following are the breakdown of the expenses on the construction. Initial contracted construction costs were estimatedat $44, 283.56 K. With adjustment of price of materials, the final cost: $54665.32. We have so far raised and paid $33, 243.85. Congratulations!



We owe a balance approximately of $14,881.76 for the completed work. This reflects the high cost of construction materials in Mbuji-Mayi. The executive has requested the contractor, Ingenieur Samy Tshibangu, to stop further work until we are able to pay off what we owe him.



Ingenieur Tshibangu has accepted to be our guest speaker at the next meeting in Dallas in July 2009. We would like to hear from the members any suggestions on how to raise the rest of these funds. Any active member (who has paid his dues) who wishes to get detailed account of LB finances should call directly our treasurer.



Politics of Rapprochement.
The executive committee is planning to adopt as one of its agenda a policy of rapprochement; i.e. it extend olive branch to any past members, foes or friends, to join LB in efforts to complete our mission; i.e. participate in projects that will benefits our people. We need a grass root movement targetingto recruit anyone that believes in “helping LB become aware a great advocacy organization for the plight of people of the Congo; especially those in Cibombio Cimuanyi, in Mbuji-Mayi. I challenge the youth to use technology at hands to start this movement.



Most older people who voted for Obama were influenced by their own kids. LBYAO, here is your chance!



Happy Thanksgiving
The executive committee wishes you happy Thanksgiving celebrations, and we remain committed to support and carry the mission of LB. It needs your support by your timely paying your dues, by recruiting other members to our organization and by your generous contribution to the projects that will serve our people



For the executive committee,



Martin L. Kabongo

Chairman