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Moreland family holds reunion, celebrates cultural heritage

The Moreland family gathered in July to celebrate their familial and cultural legacy.

Descendants of Price and Lizzie McGee Moreland (Leesburg, Georgia) gathered together to celebrate their cultural heritage on Friday and Saturday, July 19-20. The theme was “The Moreland Legacy Continues.” This celebration took place at the East Town Social Hall and about 50 family members attended. July 2019 birthdays were acknowledged: Michael Waller, Clara Donaldson, Vincent Moreland, Elyzia Terado, and Eddie Wilson.

Traveling the farthest to attend were Jason and Teknika William and children, Nia and Jayden from Texas; Lenora Moreland Seymour from Florida, and Greg and Recenia Jane Moreland Pelham from Alabama, who received a special gift for being the first to respond. Everyone was happy to see all of them, and we appreciate them making the trip to the Reunion.

Starr Waller and Ronn Moreland gave Swag Bags to each guest. Each bag included a welcome letter, purple and white t-shirts designed by ArtDen Designs, program of events, Moreland Family Address Directory, Forget-me-Not flower seed packets, and City of Dunkirk memorabilia. Children also received Swag Bags filled with many fun items. Roaming photographers included Gayle Moreland, Adina William, and Nia William who captured numerous photos of family members. Family photos from previous reunions were on display, along with the very first Moreland Family Tree. A Memorial poster of deceased relatives was presented by Shauna Moreland. A slide show of photos of family members was presented by Jason William, who also served as Master of Ceremony, and great music was provided by Shauna “DJ Monie” Moreland on both days. Lynsey William and Shauna Moreland organized numerous fun games and activities for the children and adults and all participants were awarded trophies and gold medals on ribbons. Volunteer food servers were Teknika William and Dorothy Moreland. Keeping everyone hydrated during those two very hot days were Betty Waller, Michael Waller, Curan Waller, Jada Neal, Justin Waller, Jonas Waller, and Sabrina Lord.

Moments of silence for deceased relatives and prayers were given by Deacon Curtis William.

A Business Meeting was held immediately following Saturday’s luncheon to elect officers for the next Reunion. In charge of the next Moreland Biennial Reunion are: Brian Waller and Shauna Moreland of Dunkirk, and Jason and Teknika William of Texas. Dates and Location will be announced soon by the new officials. Finance Officer, Betty Waller, gave the financial report for 2018-19.

After various fun activities, family members were treated to a scrumptious dinner banquet catered by Mike Porpiglia. A beautiful cupcake cake in the shape of a family tree was donated by Lynsey William.

The evening ended when everyone danced down the “Soul Train Line” to the song, “We Are Family.” A great time was had by all and we eagerly await the next Reunion in 2021 that will be organized by the next generation of Morelands, and all family members are encouraged to attend. Indeed, “The Moreland Legacy Continues.”

A Special Thank You is extended to all family members who helped to organize this event: Mary William, Betty Waller, Clara Donaldson, Starr Waller, Lynsey William, Shauna Moreland, Gayle Moreland, Ronn Moreland, Dorothy Moreland, Jennifer Mitchell Phillips, Brian Waller, Curan Waller, Michael Waller, Jada Neal, Adina William, Nia William, Teknika William, Scott Donaldson, and Jason William.

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