Preserving Our History
for the Future
Since 1922, the Macedonian Patriotic Organization’s mission has focused on preserving Macedonian history and culture by creating a sense of community here in the U.S. and Canada. Our common heritage is what bonds us and by coming together as part of the MPO community, we ensure our history lives on for future generations. We invite you to learn about our history and culture and encourage you to become an active member of our Macedonian community.
Upcoming Events & NEWS
Remembering
George Lebamoff
Bog da go prosti
May his memory be eternal
On February 9, 2026, George Lebamoff of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away at the age of 98. With his passing we are saying farewell to a great human being, a patriotic American, and a respected leader of the Macedonian Patriotic Organization (MPO) – who had a wonderful and fulfilled life.
Born on July 18, 1927, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, George Lebamoff stood as an emblematic example of the “old-school” Macedonian American—one who helped build the greatness of America while proudly preserving his ancestral Macedono-Bulgarian culture and heritage. A U.S. Army veteran, political activist, and successful businessman, George exemplified dedication both to his adopted homeland and to the Macedonian cause
A proud member of the Macedonian Patriotic Organization for more than seven decades, George joined the organization at just 18 years of age. His service spanned local, national, and international levels. Prior to assuming the presidency of the MPO in 2006 as its 11th President, he served as president of the MPO Kostur chapter and later as MPO Treasurer.
George’s dedication to the MPO ran deep within his family. His parents, the late Argire and Elena Lebamoff—immigrants from the village of Visheni in the Kostur region of Aegean Macedonia—were among the founders of the organization in 1922. His late brother Ivan also served as President of the Central Committee, underscoring the Lebamoff family’s extraordinary, multi-generational commitment to the Macedonian community.
George is survived by his wife of 70 years, Rosie, their children, Debbie Doust (Joe), Andy (Deb), John (Michelle), and Tom (Alexia) as well as their 10 grandchildren and spouses, and 11 great-grandchildren. George was preceded in death by his parents, Argire and Lena, sister, Marie Spahiev, and brothers, Ivan and Klement.
George Lebamoff leaves behind a legacy of service, patriotism, community leadership, and devotion to heritage and family. His life stands as an enduring example of commitment to both America and the Macedonian community he loved so deeply.
2026 MPO Convention – Downtown Cleveland
Make Your Hotel Reservations Now!
The excitement is growing for the MPO 2026 Convention to be at the Hotel Cleveland in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. The time is now to Book your group rate for Macedonian Patriotic Organization Annual Conference The MPO Convention will be celebrated over Labor Day weekend September 4th – September 7th, 2026. If you want to lock in on our special rate of $189, don’t wait until the last minute. We only have a limited number of blocked rooms available at that special rate, so don’t wait to make your reservation. Check out the Upcoming Convention page for all the information. You can also call the hotel at 1-216-696-5600 and will be transferred to the Offsite Reservation Call Center to make a new reservation. Hotel Cleveland, Autograph Collection Marriott is located at 24 Public Square Cleveland, Ohio 44113. The guest rooms are a King or two Queen beds with all rooms having a mini refrigerator. There are also a few suites available online. A few items to be aware of:
Come and enjoy downtown Cleveland with your family and friends and let’s celebrate the MPO convention together! |
Our History
This kingdom, Macedon, became a great power under the leadership of Philip II and his son, Alexander the Great. The Macedonians of this era were likely Illyrians, an ancient people who were probably the distant ancestors of the present-day Albanians. By 148 B.C., Macedonia was conquered by the Roman Empire and became a Roman province.
Support Our Mission
Thank you for your interest in supporting the MPO. We are grateful for the generosity of hundreds of individuals who have offered their time, talent and resources to support our organization over the last century. With your help and through its mission, the MPO will continue to expand thus supporting the next generation for the next 100 years!
Become a Member
Become a member of the Macedonian Patriotic Organization! These membership levels are open to any person of Macedonian descent who is at least eighteen (18) years old and their spouses/partners.
Macedonian Tribune
First published on February 10, 1927, the Macedonian Tribune is the longest-running Macedonian newspaper in the world!