USAID Mission Director, Mr. Howard Sumka, visits Ush Ghurab

July 30, 2009

Mr. Howard Sumka, Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, visited Ush Ghurab Peace Park, Thursday, July 30, 2009.

Mr. Marc Ellingstad, Civic Engagement Program Advisor, Mr. Johnny Basil, Representative of the Association for Rural Development (ARD) and other staff accompanied Mr. Sumka.

The delegation was received by Mayor Hani Al-Hayek, the Municipal Council and the municipality staff.

After a tour and overview of the park, the delegation viewed a presentation on the current administration's strategy and project development, which included past, present and future projects.

Finally, two critical projects were presented to USAID for endorsement: the Arab Orthodox Club (AOC) Community Center Development Project which includes a park, cafeteria and gymnasium for the AOC Community Center; and the Roadway Rehabilitation Project which calls for the repair of 7 roadways with in the municipality.

The Director's visit was short but very positive and he expressed his continued support to Ush Ghurab Peace Park and the community of Beit Sahour.

 

 

 

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