GETTING TOGETHER SPECIAL PANEL One of the highlights of the '96 Convention was the Guest Panel of prominent Serbian activists from other organizations who agreed to come to our Milwaukee Convention to share with our members and guests their activities on behalf of our Serbian people. Following individual presentations, the panel, moderated by Ron Radakovich, answered any and all questions from the audience for more than an hour. Beba Bjelopetrovic, President of Serbian Sisters Circle of New Gracanica, reported on her trip to Republika Srpska and Serbia and the refugee centers, where there is a dire need for aid. Both jurisdictions of the Church were represented. She stressed the importance of unity to maximize all our efforts. Nikola Kostich, Secretary of the Serbian-American Bar Association, reported on the many and varied activities of their group, whose membership has grown significantly in recent years. Dragan Marin, V.P. Shearson Lehman Investments, New York, talked about various projects for prospective free enterprise investment in Republika Srpska and Serbia. These were presented as possibilities for the U.S. Investment community. Miodrag Perisic, V.P. of the Serbian Democratic Party in Belgrade. His party is an important player in the coalition working to unseat the current neo-communist regime. His presentation was informative on their current activities. Slavisa Rakovich, Economist from Republika Srpska, reported on the plan for reconstruction. Their publication "Republika Srpska Yearbook 1996" contained significant suggestions from the Serbian Unity Congress and was most professional. The leaders of the government are looking forward with the hopes of democracy and a free market in the economic field. Dr. Ljubisa Stankovich, Representative of the Serbian Physicians Chapter, talked about their tireless work in sending medicines and equipment to aid the refugees. They have also been able to obtain medical aid within the U.S. for certain cases. Gordana Todorov, President of S.A.N.E. Serbian American Alliance of New England, reported on the various activities of the group in New England. They have been actively involved politically and humanitarily in the aid of our people. They have worked closely with the church and have been successful in these endeavors. Expressed desire to work more closely with the Serbian Unity Congress in the future.