BLUE NILE THIRD ANNUAL BANQUET A RESOUNDING SUCCESS!
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The Timothy Project/Ethiopia held its 3rd Blue Nile Banquet on April 28, 2007, hosted by Cornerstone Christian Church. With musical selections provided by the Light Singers of the Filipino Church, the banquet was attended by more than 150 people comprising leaders from the educational, technological, medical, ecclesiastical, government, business, American-friends of Ethiopia and members of the Ethiopian-Diaspora. This fundraising event serves to establish the Araya Zerihun Medical Center at Mekelle Institute of Technology (MIT) Ethiopia.
His Excellency Taye Atskeselassie, Ethiopian Consul General of Los Angles at the rank of Ambassador, delivered the keynote address highlighting Ethiopia’s recent achievements in such areas as economic development and education development. Ambassador Taye Atskeselassie congratulated the organizers and the audience on their noble initiative to establish a Medical Center named after a man who has done so much for Ethiopia – the late Araya Zerihun. On behalf of the Ethiopian Government, Ambassador Taye presented certificates of appreciation to Ato Tesfay Abay, Dr. Paul Isihara and Professor Don Church for their dedication and commitment to Ethiopia.
In addition to raising funds for the Medical Center, the banquet provided a unique opportunity for fostering awareness of Ethiopia’s cultural and historical riches. Several speakers reflected on facts and myth about Ethiopia. Dr. Sandra Joireman told the audience about Ethiopia’s little known but important facts—as the only African country which had never been colonized, Ethiopia’s victory of Adwa against Italy and its triumph against the same in 1935-41. Dr. Joireman pointed out Ethiopia’s Fitha Negest, (the Law of Kings), which dates back to 1700 A.D. as a testament to Ethiopia’s long and illustrious history.
“Ethiopia’s natural beauty and the gentle and friendly nature of its people have created a lasting memory and I look forward to more opportunities to visit Ethiopia” said Rick McKnight of the Chicago Eagles as he shared his experience during his recent visit to Ethiopia.
To date, the organization has sent two college professors, two technology professionals, three corporate executives, two pastors and six college students to the MIT. Additionally, Timothy Project/Ethiopia has provided classes, training workshops and helped to build the computer infrastructure at MIT. The organization has been able to donate three dozen computers, a high speed server, digital video projectors, laser printers and several hundred advanced technology textbooks. All this was done while facilitating the building of two new dormitories through donations of capital and skilled labor. The current goal is to provide a medical center that includes dental, eye-care, and more for MIT and the surrounding community.
