Norman C.Bezona, Professor Emeritus, University of Hawai’i, Tropical Agriculture, writes about ORE (www.oreworld.org): I have worked with ORE in cooperation with Peace Corps since 1999 on the bamboo project. The goals of this project were to introduce elite species of bamboo that could be used in Haiti for construction, crafts and food as they are used in tropical Asia. Sean Finnigan, his family and team at ORE have been truly the most enjoyable and effective NGO with which I have worked in the past 20 years. With limited funds they have managed to sustain a relatively stable community in a country that has and continues to go through extremely difficult political and economic times. Although I focused on the bamboo project, I could not help but be impressed with ORE's successes in quality seed production for farmers, improved tropical fruit production, environmental education and reforestation. I would be there right now working with ORE if the political climate allowed. As things improve, we in Hawaii hope to share more bamboo species and expertise with a country and people that have great potential given the opportunity. In times when most would have given up hope, the Finnigans have shown their metal by remaining true to the task. Sean you have been a true model of strength and courage for me and many others here. Norman C.Bezona, Professor Emeritus, University of Hawai’i, Tropical Agriculture. |