Leo Messages - January 09

Hi Sharpites and Friends

It has been quite some time since you have heard from me.  I am glad to be able to start the ball a-rolling again.  I miss this (writing) and based on some telephone calls and emails I got from some of you, I guess you do too.  Anyway, 2009 has proven to be all that we don’t want; Dr Walden is in pre-retirement, recession: which means loss of jobs, no-money, hawd fi get wuk; and the list goes on.  The good thing is Bush is out and Obama in.  All said my friends, and as Bredda Ronny Williams said on his death bed “di show muss go on”

Yes, it has difficult this year and we all agree, but Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College and it’s past student association must continue the work it started.  We are a group that has shown that “wi lili bit but wi talawah.  We must pick ourselves up and move forward with the plans we set in place.   This year, there will be some level of trimming and pruning (cut the fat as we call it) as it is prudent that we do so; but our main plans are still afloat and we need your help as past and current students to accomplish them.  These are the goals we set for 2009

Bus ride – Florida Chapter – January 2009

Dinner party – New York Chapter – February 24, 2009

Gospel concert – New York TBA

Fish Fry – New York TBA

Fish Fry – Jamaica – TBA

Grand Reunion – New York Chapter – July 10 – 12, 2009

Education Camp – All Chapters – July 20 – 31, 2009

Medical Mission – All Chapters – July 27-31,2009

Mega Raffle – All Chapters March – July 11, 2009

Mini fundraisers by all chapters and individual members - year round

Our organization is very proud of its accomplishments so far and we want to take the next step in reaching for the stars.  Watch for these events and be a part of them.  We need you.

Some recent happenings:

In an effort to continue the relationship-building with the surrounding communities of the college and with our plan to modernize the Granville clinic, SSTC and it’s past student association has donated money, time  and energy in painting the interior and exterior walls on the medical facility.  Further, we have donated a brand new microwave this past week. The MOH and the staff at Granville are very thankful and appreciate of our efforts this far.  Thanks to the people who have participated in this noble gesture.

The application process is underway to host our 2nd medical mission.  We are still seeking nurses, doctors and other medical professionals who would like to participate in this year’s mission.  If you are a past student and have medical skills, please join us in Mission 2009 by calling or emailing Valrie Ferguson at 718 693 9578 or valesp2005@verizon.net.  We are also seeking experienced teachers who would like to become a volunteer in the 2 week education camp on the campus this summer.  Your services are needed  

On a sad note, it is with teary eyes that I announce that Dr Walden’s tenure at SSTC has ended.  She is currently on pre-retirement leave as at the start of 2009 and will begin full retirement on September 1, 2009.  If I know Dr. Walden; and I can surely speak for her with 99% certainty, “shi nuh dun, she jus a come.”  Mr. Errol Clarke (current VP) is Acting Principal until a permanent replacement is identified.

Dr Walden, on behalf of the SSTCPSA, we would like to wish you the very best on her journey.  We know that your experience and wealth of knowledge will have you “soaring into greater heights”  Sam Sharpe Teachers College, the current and past students are happy that you shared that major part of our lives and we would like to let you know that “you are now a student who has graduated.”  We love you and hope that you continue to stimulate us in your very kind and charming way.  Thanks Dr Walden. See you in July.

On a happy note, there is talk that 2010 reunion will be on the high seas.  “Save up yuh money people, a seven day reunion cruise is a-comin”

“Keep this link alive; watch us go as we grow”

 A Leo Gilling