
By: Samuel B. Johnson
MONROVIA, LIBERIA - The Bassa Sports Association (BSA) has come under fire for its recent budget submission, which has left entertainment stakeholders feeling snubbed. Despite allocating funds to various sports and operational expenses, the BSA has failed to include entertainment as a budget item, sparking widespread criticism.
The Budget Breakdown:
- Football: US$100,380.00
- Kickball: US$61,245.00
- Basketball: US$29,147.00
- Field Preparation: US$4,000.00
- Media Coverage: US$3,000.00
- Operational Expenses: US$12,000.00
- Contingency (2%): US$4,195.44
However, the absence of entertainment as a budget item has raised eyebrows, particularly given the expectation that artists will produce the county's theme song at their own cost. Don Weezy, former Chair on Entertainment, Bassa Sports Association, expressed disappointment, stating that the decision is "shortsighted and undermines the entertainment sector of Grand Bassa."
County theme songs have long been a crucial element in motivating players and energizing fans. By excluding entertainment from the budget, the BSA may be overlooking a vital aspect of Grand Bassa's success. The county is home to renowned artists such as 10-30, Lil Moore, MC Caro, and others, who are expected to contribute to the county's spirit without financial support.
Critics argue that entertainment should be clearly identified as a line item in the budget, rather than being lumped under operational expenses. The call is clear: entertainment must be recognized as an essential pillar of Grand Bassa's success at the National County Sports Meet.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the BSA will revisit its budget and prioritize entertainment as a vital component of the county's sports program.