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OCG JAN.15TRANSCRIPT
By Ben Wrobel National NAACP
Jamie Scott, 38, and Gladys Scott, 36, are starting life anew. The two sisters, who walked out of prison on Jan. 7—16 years after being sentenced to double life sentences in Mississippi—are catching up with their mother, the children they left behind, including one who was born while they were in prison, and the four grandchildren they now have between them. The family lives in Pensacola, FL.
The NAACP and civil rights groups say the Scotts’ double-life sentences as first-time offenders for a crime in which no one was hurt are indicative of the egregious sentencing that still exists in the American criminal justice system. The Scotts’ release by Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour was hailed as a long-
overdue victory for justice, as well as an example of a governor using his commutation powers to right a wrong.
“I have no doubt that the reason the governor let them out is that this is a grave injustice,” said NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous, who advocated on the sisters’ behalf. “We need more days like this in Mississippi. We need more days like this in this country.”
The sisters’ release marks the end of a grassroots campaign led by a coalition of concerned individuals and groups, including the women’s family, their attorney Chokwe Lumumba, the national NAACP and the Mississippi NAACP State Conference. Supporters from around the country brought attention to the sisters’ imprisonment and petitioned Gov. Barbour for their freedom.
“This is a result of all of the individuals across this state and across the country who saw injustice in what was taking place and gave voice to it,” stated Mississippi NAACP State Conference President Derrick Johnson. “This is a great day to let us know that if we stick together, work together, we can make mighty things happen.”
“They have served more time than they should have served,” Lumumba said.
The Scott sisters were arrested on Christmas Eve 1993, when Jamie was 21, and Gladys was 19 and pregnant.
They were condemned for a first-time offense in which no one was hurt and court records maintain that little more than $10 was stolen. The sisters were convicted of luring two men to be robbed by three teen boys. The boys, who said the sisters were the masterminds behind the robbery, each received eight years and served less than three. The sisters maintained their innocence.
While in prison, Jamie, who has diabetes and kidney failure, lost use of both of her kidneys. Gov. Barbour freed Jamie and her sister on the condition that Gladys donate a kidney to Jamie. Jamie’s care costs the state of Mississippi more than $200,000 while she was imprisoned.
After leaving prison, the sisters returned to Pensacola, FL, where their mother and children now live. Jamie has three children, ages 23, 20 and 17, and two grandchildren, ages 5 and 3. Gladys has two children, ages 22 and 15, and two grandchildren, ages 7 and 4.
Jealous said that the NAACP will continue to ensure that the sisters receive the best medical care available, and Lumumba said that he would help the sisters seek a full pardon.
“Our next step is to ensure that the sisters get the health care that they need, and ultimately, the full pardon they deserve,” stated Jealous.
According to Jealous, the sisters’
release speaks to the urgent need for the work the NAACP and their allies are doing to encourage governors to use their clemency powers to advance justice. He says that for more than a century the NAACP has pushed governors and presidents publicly and privately to use their clemency powers to advance justice.
“The case of the Scott sisters gives hope to others who are unjustly imprisoned,” stated Jealous. “During the past few weeks, two governors released black Americans who had been railroaded by our nation’s criminal justice system. One week before the Scott sisters were released, New York Gov. David Paterson commuted the sentence of John White, a man who was defending his family. We hope that this trend continues in other cases, such as the case of John McNeil, a Georgia man who was given a life sentence for defending his home.”
On Common Ground News’ staff contributed to this report.
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INSIDE
Some brave icey weather to work Cheerleading Champs
The Ellenwood All Stars cheerleading teams lived up to their name
and made their training school proud: The teams took home first place titles in nine of 10 division competitions that were held recently during the World Spirit Federation A Town Championship at the Gwinnett Arena.
“This is one of the biggest wins that we’ve ever had. To win first place in that many categories is outstanding,” said Avis Jett, the school’s CEO.
Jett opened the school 11 years ago. The teams, which are
comprised of girls and boys ages 3 through college, have won numerous competitions for their showmanship and training.
What’s next? The Ellenwood All Stars will head to New Orleans for the Mardi Gras competition. After that, they will go up against some of the best teams in the nation at the National Cheerleading Association competition Feb. 25-28 in Dallas, Texas.
You can visit the Ellenwood All Stars on Facebook. To view more photos of the team, visit ocgnews.com.
Ellenwood All Stars earn high marks. Photos by Raymond Hagans special to OCG NEWS
Scott sisters finally freed—NAACP continues push for justice
National NAACP President Benjamin Todd Jealous
stands with sisters Jamie and Gladys Scott.
By Valerie J. Morgan
While everyone, except emergency workers, was safe at home, Kenley Waller met Atlanta’s ice storm head-on. Waller, who owns Kenley’s Catering, left his Stone Mountain home and headed to his downtown Atlanta restaurant to prepare and deliver the catering order he had received. After making a dinner delivery to workers at a box manufacturing plant, Waller thought he’d head for home. He never made it, though. He spent the night sleeping on the floor at his restaurant, which is located at 75 Piedmont Avenue in downtown Atlanta.
“I left at 8:30 p.m. Sunday thinking I could make it home, but the snow started coming down on I-20 and I knew I couldn’t,” said Waller. “I got off the exit and went to the restaurant.”
Waller said he made a pallet out of two cardboard signs and slept in the jacket he wore. That was Sunday, the day the storm hit. He spent Monday and Tuesday night there, too.
Waller kept the restaurant running both days by himself. After delivering catering jobs like the 100 Georgia Power employees that he served, Waller cooked for students from nearby Georgia State University who dropped by the restaurant. For more on the story, visit www.ocgnews.com.
PAGE 2 JANuAry 15, 2011
Dr. J. Jason Thomas, CEOBoard Certified
Dr. Marvin Ngwafon
Stonecrest/Lithonia2930 Turner Hill Rd.Suite ALithonia, GA 30058Phone: 770-484-SMILE 76455
JANuAry 15, 2011 PAGE 3
Former Lithonia City Council member Barbara Lester didn’t want the usual gift certificates
and wrapped presents for the birthday she celebrated recently with some of her seven siblings who planned a grand event in her honor. Lester requested money, but not for herself. The senior citizen fed her guests a three-course dinner and asked them to donate to her church.
“I knew I didn’t need any gifts, but the church did. So anyone that gave a monetary gift was donating something to the church,” said Lester, who turned 75. “I just asked everyone to please take an envelope and give money to my church.”
Lester’s birthday celebration raised more than $1,000 for her place
of worship, First Saint Paul A.M.E. Church in Lithonia, which is under the leadership of Pastor Marvin Crawford and is located at 2687 Klondike Rd.
Lester’s birthday bash was held on Jan. 2 at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia. Lester’s siblings include Roger Woods, Jerome Woods, who served as a Lithonia police chief for 19 years, Kenneth Woods, Laverne Baker, Marcia Glenn Hunter, who served as Lithonia’s mayor in the 1990s, Drucilla Woods and Rena McGhee. Lester’s late mother, Maggie Woods, was the first African-American elected to the Lithonia City Council.
Community NewsjANuARy 15, 2011 VOluME 16, NO. 20
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HomeFree-USA is a minority-founded, 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit organization that specializes in homeownership development and foreclosure intervention. Based in the Washington, DC metro area with regional offices in Atlanta, and Kansas City. HomeFree- USA delivers services across the country through its nationwide network of faith- and community-based nonprofit partners. The HomeFree-USA network represents the inter- ests of 15 million homeowners and homebuyers. HomeFree-USA enjoys a 0% foreclosure rate among families that have participated in its pre-purchase homeownership prepara- rate among families that have participated in its pre-purchase homeownership prepara- tion program. Learn more, visit http://www.homefreeusa.org/
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Congressman Hank Johnson (standing, right) presents a proclamation to Barbara Lester for her birthday.
Turning 75: ‘Please give money to my church’
School districts to weigh make-up days
By Joshua Smith
With a solid week out of school due to the icy weather, students in the metro Atlanta area will have to make up some of the time they have missed out of school. The question is: When ?
The State Board of Education allows four emergency days for districts to use for inclement weather or emergencies that would not require make-up days. But once those days are used, districts have the discretion of figuring out how students will make up the required classroom time whether eliminating Teacher Work Days or extending the school year and letting out for school later.
In DeKalb County, School Board member Jay Cunningham said he planned to recommend that students go to school on a Saturday as a make-up day.
“We need to have some out-of-the-box thinking. Our students need to spend more time in school anyway to raise test scores in math and science,” said Cunningham. Other districts go to school on Saturday. I don’t see why we couldn’t.”
Nothing is etched in stone. DeKalb schools officials will weigh their options and notify parents once they develop a plan.
At the newspaper’s deadline, Gwinnett was looking at the week ahead.
See Future page 6
PAGE 4 JANuAry 15, 2011
comiNg up
aTlaNTa
Learn how to safely use eBay
Atlanta Fulton County Public Library System’s Mechanicsville Branch, 400 Formwalt St., S.W., Atlanta, will host a how-to session on buying and selling on eBay, Jan. 29, 12:30 – 3 p.m.
Taught by J. Daniel, a certified eBay instructor, this course will teach the basics of eBay and other topics such as assuring your purchase is with a reputable dealer.
Founded in 1995, eBay is now a multi-billion dollar business with operations localized in more than 30 countries. eBay expanded from its original “set-time” auction format to include “Buy It Now” standard shopping, online classified advertisements, online event ticket trading, online money transfers and other services. 404-730-4779.
Emory University presents annual art showcaseEmory University will host its
third annual Emory Arts Showcase on Jan. 29, 8 p.m., at the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts at Emory, 1700 N. Decatur Rd., N.E., Atlanta.
Considered by staff as “One of Emory’s best-kept secrets,” the program highlights the talent simmering just beneath the surface of students, professors and staff coming from several backgrounds such as pre-med, business and political science. They all turn out to be painters, singers, rockers, pianists, bagpipers, dancers, photographers, guitarists and sculptors at this free event. 404-727-5050.
DeKalb
“SALT” spy thriller to screen at Lithonia library
DeKalb County’s Lithonia-Davidson branch, 6821 Church St., Lithonia, will host a free screening of SALT, starring Angelina Jolie on Jan. 15, 2 – 4 p.m.
As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt swore an oath to fully honor and work for her country. Her loyalty is tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a cover operative to elude capture. Her efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives, as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continue and the question remains: “Who Is Salt?”
The movie is rated for ages 18 and older. 770-482-3820.
Disaster training for communities set
The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency will hold a class to ready families for disasters on Jan. 25, 7 p.m. at the Fire Rescue Headquarters, 1950 W. Exchange Place, Tucker.
Learn what to do before, during and after a disaster occurs. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Course will train you to care for your family and your neighbors.
The class is free if you live or work in DeKalb County. For more information or for an application, contact Specialist Robert Swanson at 678-406-7858 or [email protected].
rDeKalb CEO sets in-home neighborhood meetings
DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis will attend a series of in-home neighborhood meetings to discuss and receive feedback on the proposed 2011 executive budget recommendation and related county matters.
“I know that residents have questions to ask and priorities to voice,” said CEO Ellis. “I want to hear what the people have to say”.
The meetings scheduled so far will be at the following locations:
Tuesday, Jan. 18, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.1373 Altamont Drive, Decatur -
Leafmore Creek Park ClubhouseThursday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.4233 Sandstone Shores Drive,
LithoniaTuesday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.5001 Mainstreet Park Drive
Clubhouse, Stone MountainThursday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.2765 Northbrook Drive, AtlantaTuesday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.3397 Springside Drive, Decatur
Community meetings set on DeKalb budget
The DeKalb County Budget and Finance Committee, comprised of DeKalb County Commissioners Lee May, Sharon Barnes-Sutton and Elaine Boyer, will host a Town Hall meeting on Thursday, Feb. 3, 6:30 p.m., in the Manuel J. Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur. The purpose of the Town Hall is to discuss the 2011 Annual Budget.
The Budget and Finance Committee, which has changed leadership this year, is eager to incorporate the community’s
perspective into this year’s budget decisions.
“As the new chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee, I am committed to tackling this year’s budget concerns, while also keeping the constituents of DeKalb informed,” said May. May is also hosting a community meeting with constituents on Feb. 2, 7 p.m., at Berean Christian Church, 2201 Young Road, Stone Mountain.
rocKDale
Olde Town bike ride set The City of Conyers will offer a bike
tour of historic Olde Town on Jan. 23, 4 – 5:30 p.m.
The Olde Town Trail Committee sponsors this leisurely four-mile, 45-minute bike ride through Olde Town Conyers. Meet at the Conyers Depot at 901 Railroad Street, Conyers. For more information, call 770-602-2606.
gwiNNeTT
Lunch with New York Times authors
Book lovers are invited to a free luncheon and book discussion with New York Times bestselling authors Mary Jane Clark (To Have and To Kill), Lynn Cullen (The Creation of Eve), and Karen White (Falling Home). The complimentary luncheon on Jan. 20, at noon, is provided by Garden Plaza. The garden center is located at 230 Collins Industrial Way in Lawrenceville. Reservations are required. Call 770-978-5154 or e-mail [email protected].
‘DRUMLine Live’ is rescheduled
Due to the recent snow storm, the DRUMLine Live stage show has been rescheduled to Jan. 24, 8 p.m., at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta.
DRUMLine Live pays homage to the show-style marching bands popularized at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
DRUMLine’s 39-member cast of performers, many originally from the metropolitan Atlanta area, honed its talent with years of training in marching band programs across the United States such as Clark Atlanta, University of Georgia, Tennessee State, and Florida A&M University.
The show is co-produced by Halftime Live, LLC (based in Atlanta and DeKalb County), and Columbia Artists Management, Inc.
Tickets for DRUMLine Live are available for $13 to $63, plus fees. Tickets can be purchased at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center or online at www.cobbenergycentre.com or through Ticketmaster.com.
Community invited to
College Fair
Chamblee Charter High School’s PTSA invites you to attend its annual College Fair on Feb. 12, 1 to 4 p.m.
Meet representatives from colleges (junior, 2-year, and 4-year), trade schools, technical schools, and military options. Experts in financial aid, career development, and college study habits will also be available, as will be guest speakers.
The fair, originally scheduled for Jan. 22, is free and open to the public. The school is located at 3688 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Chamblee GA, 30341.
Job fair in Lithonia set for Feb. 3
Lithonia councilwoman Doreen Carter and the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce have rescheduled the job fair planned for this month. The fair now will be held on Feb. 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Lucious Sanders Recreation Center, 2484 Bruce St., Lithonia.
The Georgia Department of Labor DeKalb, DeKalb Parks & Recreation and DeKalb Workforce Development will be offering job opportunities from 20-30 employers at the fair. The job fair will also offer expert resume assistance, interviewing skills, and education opportunities. Job seekers from DeKalb County and surrounding areas are invited to attend.
Rescheduled Events
JANuAry 15, 2011 PAGE 5
Hands on Atlanta to host 18th King Service Summit
Hands on Atlanta will host its 18th annual King Service Summit on Jan. 17, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., at Georgia Tech’s Ferst Center for the Arts, 349 Ferst Dr., N.W., Atlanta.
A freedom rally will kick off the day at 8 a.m. featuring music, dance and a legacy conversation moderated by Jovita Moore of WSB-TV showcasing Senator Jason Carter, Andrea Young, and Brooke Jackson Edmonds. Hands On Atlanta will present Presidential Service Awards to exceptional volunteers as well.
At 10 a.m., the summit continues with a Community Conversations forums where participants will address Dr. King’s dream by discussing community poverty, disability discrimination, environment, women studies, and the violence that is stripping youths of their dreams.
The summit will conclude at 1 p.m. with a food drive sponsored by Target and the Atlanta Community Food Bank, where attendees along with more than 800 AmeriCorps members from around the state, will box food and participate in a walking food drive in local Atlanta neighborhoods to collect additional canned goods. The food will be distributed to more than 10,000 Atlanta-area families in need.
Participation is free and open to the public. To register or to volunteer, visit www.handsonatlanta.org/HomePage/index.php/mlk2011/index-gjh-3.html or call 404-979-2800.
DCTV anchor to emcee King event
The King Center has invited Diamond Lewis, an Emmy Award winning News Director and Anchor for DeKalb County Government, DCTV, to conduct an interview during the official observance of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The event will take place at Ebenezer Baptist Church at The King Center on Saturday, Jan. 15, at 1 p.m.
“We are honored that the King Center has selected Ms. Lewis for such a profound event,” said DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Burrell Ellis.
Lewis has been asked to conduct an interview with Dr. Clayborne Carson, the senior editor and director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Papers Project, at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for nonviolent Social Change and Stanford University.
Dr. Carson has also authored, co-authored, and co-edited several other definitive works based on the King papers.
Decatur sets MLK service project
The City of Decatur will host “Decatur’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Project,” Jan. 15 – 17 throughout the City of Decatur.
Volunteers for the ninth annual event will work on senior citizens’ homes in Decatur, making needed repairs and doing yard work that the elderly homeowners have been unable to do. The MLK Jr. Service Project is sponsored by the Decatur Preservation Alliance in partnership with the City of Decatur and other organizations. Those who are interested in volunteering should call Lee Ann Harvey at 678-553-6548.
DeKalb NAACP sets annual parade and rally
The DeKalb branch of the NAACP and the City of Stone Mountain will hold the Ninth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Rally on Jan. 17, 12:30 p.m. in downtown Stone Mountain.
Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King, Jr. with marching bands, local entertainers and State Representatives.
The parade begins in the MARTA Parking lot on Fourth Street in Stone Mountain. The rally will begin immediately following the parade in the Champion Theme Middle School Gym, 5265 Mimosa Drive, Stone Mountain.
Gwinnett Youth NAACP celebrate King Weekend
The Gwinnett NAACP Youth Council will honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a book festival and blood drive on Jan. 15 and 16.
The youth group will host the book festival at Barnes & Noble, The Avenue at Webb Gin Shopping Plaza, 1350 Scenic Highway, Snellville, 12 – 6 p.m. The event will feature motivational speaker, pianist and author Noni Carter, along with middle school and high school performers. On Jan. 16, 2 – 4 p.m., there will be a poetry/writing workshop and a publishing workshop.
On Jan. 15, the youth council will join forces with Delta and the American Red Cross to host the “Take to the Skies” blood drive at the same location, 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. 404-644-2266.
Rockdale sets MLK breakfast
The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber
of Commerce and the Rockdale Branch of the NAACP will co-host a breakfast celebrating the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The breakfast will be held on the national holiday, Monday, Jan. 17, 7:45 a.m. at Longhorn Steakhouse, located on Iris Drive near Interstate 20 and West Avenue.
The speakers for the event will be the Rev. Eric Lee, pastor of Springfield Baptist Church, and the Rev. Jeff Meyers, pastor of Conyers First Baptist Church.
The cost to attend the breakfast program is $5 for adults and $2 for children ages 13 and under. Limited seating will be available for those who want to attend the program, but not purchase breakfast.
Proceeds will benefit United Way homeless initiatives in Conyers and Rockdale, including Phoenix Pass and Family Promise of NewRock. Advanced tickets may be purchased from the Chamber of Commerce, located at 1186 Scott Street.
Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.
PAGE 6 JANuAry 15, 2011
ATLANTA–The Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University is hoping to groom the next generation of researchers, physicians, nurses, and health care professionals. Winship is currently accepting applications for its Winship Summer Scholars Research Program from high school students who are interested in an immersion into the research world of cancer.
The Winship Summer Scholars Program begins June 6, 2011, and ends July 15, 2011. Deadline for applications is February 11, 2011.
“This program provides a genuine experience in a biomedical research laboratory for high school students who have a keen interest in science,” says Mary Jo Lechowicz, MD, assistant professor of hematology and medical oncology at Emory and director of the Winship Summer Scholars program.
The Winship Summer Scholars Research Program (WSSRP) consists of both academic and practicum components, and is available to students who are rising seniors attending any high school in the greater
Atlanta area. “At the completion of the
program,” said Lechowicz, “students will have experienced the rich, interdisciplinary nature of biomedical research and will have an authentic understanding of the process of science.”
Students accepted into the program will be assigned to work with a research scientist or clinical oncologist who is actively engaged in research at Emory University School of Medicine. Students will work in a professional
setting with their faculty mentors, as well as with laboratory technicians and graduate students, in their assigned lab. Participants will learn about the research interests of their faculty mentor and will be assigned to a specific question or problem relating to that interest.
For more information, or to apply to the Winship Summer Scholars Research Program, contact: Beverly Jones, 404-778-2249 or [email protected].
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DeKalb School System revises public input meetings on redistricting
Parents will have a chance to give their input on proposed school closings in DeKalb
County. The district is considering closing 14 schools to save money and meet budget shortfalls. The number includes 12 elementary schools and two high schools. The school system says it needs to consolidate and fill 11,000 empty seats.
In DeKalb, 12,900 to 16,100 of the school district’s 99,000 students would be sent to a new school next year, if the School Board plan is approved. School officials have stated they could not determine the exact dollar amount on the 11,000 empty seats, but said the district, which has an approximate budget of $1 billion, has lost millions of dollars in state funding due to the empty
class seats. This includes annual state operations funding to pay for expenses like art and music teachers, and capital improvement funds to renovate and build new schools.
DeKalb currently has 21 elementary schools that have such low enrollments they are not receiving state funding for some programs, which means local tax dollars fund the difference.
Due to inclement weather, the DeKalb County School System has adjusted the schedule for the Redistricting and Consolidation Public Input Workshops, recommendations from the Superintendent to the Board of Education Public Hearings, and the final scheduled vote by the Board of Education, which will address these issues.
Emory offers summer research program for high school students
“District leaders are looking at calendars as we speak to try and figure out what would be the best way to make up these missed days, then we will let parents know,” said Jorge Quintana, director of Media Relations for Gwinnett County Schools.
Quintana says Gwinnett County’s website will be updated to inform parents. He said parents should also pay attention to media reports.
Right now, no school districts have expressed shortening their spring breaks, which had concerned parents
planning for vacation. Atlanta Public Schools, DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett County school systems all have spring break scheduled April 4 – 8.
In DeKalb County, the last day of school is set for May 20. In Gwinnett County, where calendars have one snow make-up day during the months of February, March and May, the last day of school is May 25. Fulton County schools’ last day is scheduled for May 27. The City of Atlanta Public School system has its last day set for May 24.
continued from page 3
The revised schedule for the meetings is as follows: Redistricting and Consolidation Public Input Workshops:Tuesday, Jan. 18 Miller Grove High SchoolWednesday, Jan. 19 Druid Hills Middle SchoolThursday, Jan. 20 Chamblee High SchoolTuesday Jan. 25 McNair High SchoolWednesday, Jan. 26 Bethune Middle SchoolThursday, Jan. 27 Stone Mountain Middle School
Superintendent’s Recommendation to Board of Education: Monday, Feb. 7 Administrative and Instructional ComplexBoard of Education Public Hearings: Tuesday, March 1 Administrative and Instructional ComplexThursday, March 3 Administrative and Instructional ComplexFinal Vote by Board of Education: Monday March 7 Administrative and Instructional Complex For more information and updates, visit www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/vision-2020
Future make-up days to be decided
JANuAry 15, 2011 PAGE 7
The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for its O.P.E.N. (Opportunities for Promoting Entrepreneurship and Networking)
program, which will begin on Feb. 7. Open to entrepreneurs, would-
be entrepreneurs and relatively new business owners, this six-week course is held on Monday evenings from 6 – 9 p.m. and has been praised by Governor Perdue as being “Exactly the sort of thing other communities need to be doing.”
The lecturers teaching in the program are successful businessmen and women with various business backgrounds. Lecturers share their years of experience while explaining the advantages, challenges and pitfalls to be expected in business ownership.
President and CEO of the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce Fred Boscarino is proud of the program and says that any individual interested in succeeding in business ownership will benefit greatly by attending it.
“Certainly, it is the best thing ever to happen to new business in Rockdale County and the entrepreneurs who
created them,” Boscarino said. More than 200 participants
have graduated from the O.P.E.N. program, coming from Rockdale and neighboring counties. Many of them are now successfully operating their own businesses.
Some of the graduates learned that business ownership was not for them. By taking the class, they may have avoided losing their savings in an investment for which they are not suited. For others, the course provided them with the first steps to take before opening the business of their dreams.
The final meeting of the class will be a graduation program with a featured speaker. The size of the class is limited to allow for a greater opportunity for individualized instruction.
Usually there are more applicants for the course than can be accommodated, so those who are interested in getting a seat should express their desire as early as possible.
O.P.E.N. will be held in the Rockdale County Government Annex at 1400 Parker Road, Conyers. The program is $150. To enroll and learn more about the program, contact the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce at 770-483-7049.
Fred Boscarino
TO CONTACT uSBy PHONE: 678-526-1910By FAx: 678-526-1909By E-mAIl: [email protected] ONlINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COm Business News Development, Newsmakers & Events
Industry experts, seminars to highlight free Entrepreneur conference
Entrepreneur magazine and the UPS Store are presenting a
free conference in Atlanta to help those who want to grow their businesses in 2011. The conference is set for Jan. 20, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at the Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., N.W., in Hall B in the Zell Miller Ballroom.
The conference will feature hands-on seminars by industry experts, a breakfast and luncheon, networking opportunities, and an awards program to announce the magazine’s “Established Entrepreneur of 2010,” “Emerging Entrepreneur of 2010,” and its “College Entrepreneur of 2010.”
The keynote speaker for the event will be “Franchise King” John Brown, who, at age 29, purchased the Kentucky Fried Chicken Corporation with a partner and built KFC into the world's most recognized personal brand and largest food service company, later selling for $285 million. The former Kentucky governor, who won the governor’s seat in 1979, will share his experience on building companies from
the ground up, offering insight into growing brands, innovating, and being unafraid to do things differently.
In addition to hearing from Brown, business owners will have a chance to learn from some of the top business experts in the country. Several speakers will lead seminars on helpful topics ranging from raising capital for your business to branding your business to using the internet to grow.
At the conference, entrepreneurs also will have the opportunity to pitch their business to Entrepreneur magazine’s editors. Owners can tell them why their business should be featured in Entrepreneur magazine or on Entrepreneur.com for the chance to generate the kind of attention that can increase sales multiply their business base while getting national recognition for their business. Entrepreneurs should come with their practiced pitch, a media kit and product samples.
Register for the free conference at http://www.entrepreneur.com/growthconference/index.html or call 404-223-4000.
Build Your Brand, Build Your Business
3 Weeks to Startup
How to Build a Selling System in Your Company
Principles of Sales Leadership
Susan Gunelius
Tom Black
Tim Berry
SEMINARS and SPEAKERSAttracting Customers with Google AdWords
Power Social Networking and PR
How to Raise Money Now
Asheesh Advani
Perry Marshall
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Chamber offers O.P.E.N. to help entrepreneurs launch their businesses
Bobby L. Scott, CEOEmail [email protected]
Accounting, Taxes, Business ConsultationIndividuals-Corporations-Non-Profits
IRS Representation
Over 30 Years ExperienceMember: AICPA & GSCPA
1316 Rockbridge Road, Suite LStone Mountain, Ga. 30087Stone Mountain, Ga. 30087
For AppointmentCall (770) 638-1200 Office (770) 638-1201 Fax
BOBBY L. SCOTT, CPA LLCCERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT
PAGE 8 JANuAry 15, 2011
“O.P.E.N. has been accredited by Georgia Governor Perdue as the type of program Georgia needs”
Starting Your Own Business Or Enhancing Your Existing Business?Join The 2011 Winter Entrepreneurial Class
• Accounting/Bookkeeping
• Marketing Your Business
• Legalities Of Starting A Business
• Retirement Planning For The Small Businessperson
• Hiring And Firing Employees
• Business Liability Insurance
• Handling Expenses, Managing Revenues
• Computer/Technology Resources
• Procedures For Starting A Business
6 - Week ProgramMonday Evenings: 6 - 9 p.m. • Starting: February 7, 2011
some of the topics: CLASSES ARE LIMITEd!
$15000(pre-registration discount)
For Reservations And Further Information, Call:
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce
770-483-7049
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENTAdvertisement for Week of January 13, 2011
Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, 2nd Floor, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030,
for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below:
REQUEST FORQUOTATION NO. ITEM CLOSING DATE
3001928 ITB Ford Crown Victorias for Sheriff Department January 27, 2011
3001929 ITB Ford Crown Victorias for Police Services January 27, 2011
10-100205 ITB Call Electrical Contractor Services February 15, 2011
10-100206 ITB On Call HVAC Contractor Services February 15, 2011
Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030.
For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html
DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise.
By: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer • DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
ABL to install new board members The Atlanta Business League will welcome its new
board members on Jan. 18, 5:30 – 7 p.m., at the Atlanta Life Financial Building, 100 Auburn Ave., N.E., Atlanta.
The installation ceremony will be held for incoming Board ChairThomas W. Dortch, Jr., the 2011 Board of Directors, Officers and General Counsel of the Atlanta Business League. Come hear the initiatives planned for 2011 as well.
Georgia Supreme Court member Justice Robert Benham. Will conduct the swearing in. Donna Lowry, 11Alive News education reporter, will serve as the mistress of ceremony.
For more information, visit www.atlantabusinessleague.org or call 404-584-8126.
DeKalb’s District Attorney to attend business networking mixer
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will welcome County District Attorney Robert James at its Business After Hours event on Jan. 27, 5:30 – 7 p.m., at Heritage Golf Links, 4445 Britt Rd., Tucker.
The Chamber says some of the best business opportunities happen when professionals are in a relaxed and social networking environment. Join the DeKalb Chamber this month as they take this opportunity to meet and greet new businesses in the county at the host location and event sponsor, Heritage Golf Links.
Attendees can enjoy food, a cash bar, door prizes and of course networking. The cost to attend is $10 for non-members. Register at "http://www.dekalbchamberofcommerce.org" www.dekalbchamberofcommerce.org or call 404-378-8000.
ABWA holds monthly networkingThe American Business Women’s Association will host its monthly
networking meeting on Jan. 26, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Express, 1302 Green St., Conyers.
The group brings businesswomen of diverse occupations together to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition.
The cost to attend is $20 for non-members. To register, call Patti Bryson at 770-918-1039.
BBA welcomes Atlanta Police Chief George Turner
The Buckhead Business Association will welcome Atlanta Police Chief George Turner to its monthly breakfast on Jan. 27, 7:30 – 9 a.m., at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, Suite 1850, Atlanta.
Chief Turner has worked in all areas of the Police Department including the Uniform Division and investigations. He has extensive experience in the area of dignitary and executive protection, having participated and/or managed well over 100 events in the City of Atlanta, the United States and abroad.
Chief Turner served on Ambassador Andrew J. Young’s Executive Protection Team during his tenure as Mayor of the city of Atlanta and as the Dignitary and Security Chief during his Governor of Georgia Campaign. Turner served as the Interim Police Chief for six months and was named the Chief of Police by Mayor Kasim Reed in July of 2010.
The cost to attend the breakfast meeting is $20 for non-members. To register, visit www.buckheadbusiness.org or call 404-467-7607.
NFP hosts Shakers and Stirrers mixerNetworking For Professionals will hold Shakers and Stirrers, an after-hours
mixer for the business community on Jan. 19, 6 – 8 p.m., at Shula’s 347 Grill, 3405 Lenox Rd., N.E., Atlanta.
Keep your New Year’s resolution to grow your business. Join NFP for its first mixer of 2011. Make quality business connections and mingle with top professionals.
The next day, NFP will email you the list of confirmed attendees to help you follow up with your new contacts. Only those who sign up in advance online will receive the list of attendees.
The cost to attend is $15 for non-members and $20 at the door. Register under the events page at http://www2.bizjournals.com or call 212-227-6556.
busiNess News caleNDar Compiled By Joshua Smith
Thomas W. Dortch, Jr.,
DA Robert James
“The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you commit yourself to it.” Mack R. Douglas, Author”
Make a commitment nowBy Dr. Tanisha Johnson
If you are serious about
making a permanent change in your life, why wait? Make a commitment now. According to Webster’s II Collegiate Dictionary, commitment is a pledge or promise, an obligation.
Once you have determined what it is you want to accomplish, you need to write it down. When you have clearly defined your goal, you are confirming your agreement to make it happen.
Additionally, you must have accountability for your commitments. Accountability is essential. Share your commitment with at least one other person who will help to keep your feet to the fire until it comes to fruition. With only a few days into this New Year, get serious about the change you want to have in your life. I know you say you have made resolutions. Most of us make resolutions at the beginning of the
year, but without a plan of action, you won’t resolve anything at all.
Take inventory of what worked for you last year and incorporate those things into your plan. I have made my commitments, put them on paper and have accountability partners to make certain that I stay on track.
Make your commitments realistic and attainable. Most people aren’t specific. They aim too high and at the first sign of a challenge, they quit. Don’t underestimate yourself. You will be surprised at what you will accomplish once you have a plan of action in place. You will be challenged and tempted to give up but know that you can do it! Go easy on yourself and take one small step at a time so that you don’t become overwhelmed. Stick with it and it shall come to pass. 2011 will be your best year yet.
Dr. Tanisha Johnson is a Leadership and Relationship Coach who is based in DeKalb County. To contact Dr. Johnson, e-mail her at [email protected].
George Turner
JANuAry 15, 2011 PAGE 9
TO CONTACT uSBy PHONE: 678-526-1910By FAx: 678-526-1909By E-mAIl: [email protected] ONlINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COm Health & Wellness resources & lifestyle Tips
DeKalb Medical hosts Mom & Baby Fitness
classes DeKalb Medical Center will
hold its Mom & Baby Fitness classes on Sundays Jan. 23 – Feb. 13, 12:15 – 1 p.m., at the hospital’s Wellness Center, 2701 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur.
DeKalb Medical wants to make sure mothers and their babies begin the new year on the right track. Get ready for a great workout. This class incorporates cardio, strength-training and focused abdominal work.
Your baby can get in on the fun, too, or simply stay close to you on your mat. Class ends with a treat for your baby—gentle babies massage.
Participants should bring a yoga mat, front carrier (Baby Bjorn or similar), towel and water. Medical consent is required, if your baby is less than 12 weeks old.
The sessions are offered at $60 for the complete series or $18 a class. Register at www.dekalbmedical.org or call 404-501-1000.
Emory Healthcare offers HeartWise series this
month Emory Healthcare will host a
free series entitled HeartWise on Jan. 24 and 31 in the fifth floor conference room of the Emory facility, 1525 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.
“Fats: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly,” will be held on Jan. 24 and will feature nutritionists covering “good” fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, and “bad” fats, like saturated and trans fats.
The second session, “Physician’s View: The Mediterranean Diet,” will be held on Jan. 31. The Mediterranean diet is a heart-healthy eating plan combining elements of Mediterranean-style cooking.
Both sessions are free to attend and are held from 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. To register, visit www.emoryhealthcare.org or call 404-778-7777.
Rockdale Medical Birth Pace tours set
Rockdale Medical Center, 1412 Milstead Ave., Conyers, will offer free Birth Place tours on Jan. 23, 4 – 5 p.m.
Expectant families tour the Birth Place rooms on both the Labor and Delivery and Mother/Baby Units. Family members, including children, are invited to tour. Hospital staff asks that you arrive no later than 3:45 p.m. for the tour at the East Tower Entrance. A staff member will meet participants in the lobby and will begin the tour promptly at 4 p.m. If you do not arrive prior to the start of the tour, you should make plans to attend a tour at a later date.
Registration is required to attend the free tour. Register at www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org or call 770-918-3000.
Eat right while you’re pregnant
Gwinnett Medical Center will host “Pickles & Ice Cream” for parents who are in their first trimester on Jan. 25, 7 p.m. at the hospital’s Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion in the Rose and Azalea rooms.
Designed to help you get off to a healthy start with your pregnancy, topics include: fetal development, prenatal care, healthy lifestyle choices, nutrition and current body changes.
The Women’s Pavilion is located at 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville. The class is free to attend, but registration is required. Register at www gwinnettmedicalcenter.org or call 678-312-1000.
Piedmont Cancer Center offers relaxing health
sessions The Piedmont Healthcare’s
Cancer Center, 1800 Howell Mill Rd., Suite 700, Atlanta, will offer guided imagery and relaxation for optimal health on Jan. 31, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Come learn widely researched techniques for using the mind for healing and growth. Sessions will focus on key issues such as optimizing chemotherapy and radiation treatments, reducing side effects, preparing for surgery and actualizing your goals—turning insight into action. Each participant receives a CD for daily practice.
Tallulah Lyons, M.Ed, facilitates this free course. Register at www.piedmontcancer.org or call 404-425-7925.
HealTH & wellNess caleNDar Compiled By Joshua Smith
DECATUR—The Belvedere Community in South DeKalb is taking the expression
“just walk it off” to heart. Through a new initiative called MOVEment, community residents are uniting to become healthier one step at a time.
“This new program, The Healthy Belvedere Initiative, is a part of a $1 million grant, which was awarded to Belvedere two years ago by Kaiser Permanente,” said Project Administrator Celeste Beaty. “There is no weight goal or prize, but at the end of the program, there will be a more confidant, prouder and healthier you.”
MOVEment has been created to expand, enhance and reinvigorate walking programs. By increasing participation in walking clubs, MOVEment’s goal is to reduce cases
of obesity, high blood pressure and pre-diabetes while encouraging walkers to advocate for policy and environmental change in the Belvedere community.
Kaiser Permanente conducted a survey about three years ago and examined the Belvedere community, along with at least five other communities, to determine who would be awarded the grant. In their research, Kaiser found that one in two adults in the Belvedere community are living with a chronic disease such as diabetes.
“The goal is to get folks moving. With so many Americans being overweight, our kids especially being overweight and Belvedere adults being diagnosed with chronic diseases at alarming numbers, we are doing everything we can to make
sure this program is a success,” Beaty said.
The MOVEment project will be implemented in three phases:
“READY,” the Walker Liaison and Partner Interest Meeting, open to faith-based leaders, education and civic leaders, businesses and those interested in leading walking clubs, will be held on Jan. 19, 12 p.m. at Christ the Lord Church, 3760 Glenwood Road, Decatur.
The second session, a walking club resident interest meeting, will be held on Jan. 29, 6 p.m., at the same church and is open to those who live, work, worship or play in Belvedere Park.
More activities, including indoor fitness activities, nutrition classes, coking demonstrations and walker assessments, are scheduled for
late February. Healthy Belvedere welcomes all that live, work, worship or play in the Belvedere Park Community to participate in this MOVEment.
Healthy Belvedere is a neighborhood initiative focused on Healthy Eating and Active Living (HEAL). The Belvedere community is located in Decatur, between Memorial Drive, Columbia Drive, Glenwood Road and Candler Road.
For more information on how to get involved, meeting times and locations, or other Healthy Belvedere initiatives, visit www.healthybelvedere.org or contact Celeste Beaty, project administrator, at [email protected] or 678-973-2186.
Healthy Belvedere ready for MOVEment
PAGE 10 JANuAry 15, 2011
Exousia Lighthouse Ministries hosts free
community expo
Exousia Lighthouse International Christian Ministries, 2562 Bond St., Lithonia, will host a free “Community Wellness & Health Empowerment EXPO” on Jan. 29, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Free information will be provided in the areas of fitness, diet and nutrition, speech pathology, mental health, Christian counseling and other services.
The community is invited to the event. For more information, visit www.myexousia.org or call 770-695-0167.
Andrew Young among dignitaries for FAMA
meeting The Faith
Alliance of Metro Atlanta (FAMA) has set its first meeting for the year for Feb. 2, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3003 Howell Mill Rd., Atlanta.
The luncheon will focus on the theme, World Interfaith Harmony. The Rev. Gerald Durley will moderate a distinguished panel comprised of Archbishop Wilton Gregory, former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, Rabbi Analia Bortz, Tayyibah Taylor, Brother Shankara, and Taiun Michael
Elliston. An interactive dialogue by the invited interfaith organizations and Counsel Generals will follow. You must RSVP to Jan Swanson at [email protected] to attend this discussion. 404-237-6491.
TO CONTACT uSBy PHONE: 678-526-1910By FAx: 678-526-1909By E-mAIl: [email protected] ONlINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COm We Worship Faith-Based News & Inspiration
MWE SCHOOL OF MINISTRYClasses Begin Jan. 24, 2011
Earn a Certifi cate in MinistryGain a Deeper Understanding of the Bible
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Classes Meet 2 Hours Each Week for 12 Weeks
Visit Our Website or Call for the List of [email protected]
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Classes Meet at Big Miller Grove Baptist Church in Lithonia, GA
Shirley Sherrod to keynote Fairfield Baptist fundraiser
Shirley Sherrod
Fairfield Baptist Church will present Shirley Sherrod, the USDA’s former director of rural development in
Georgia, during its “Historic Program,” honoring esteemed dignitaries and community icons on Feb. 12, 12 p.m.
Sherrod drew national attention after the Department of Agriculture fired her over comments she made 20 years ago that were taken out of context and put on the internet.
Sherrod has worked for civil rights since the age of 17 after her father was
killed over a dispute concerning a cow. Fairfield’s program will be hosted
by Channel 11 education reporter Donna Lowery. The program will also recognize Henry “Hank” Thomas. Thomas has served as a civil rights activist and is one of the Original Freedom Riders.
Tickets are $75 to attend. Proceeds will benefit the church’s building fund. Order tickets at http://www.fairfieldbaptistchurch.org/b1inamillion.html or call 770-482-7660, ext. 127.
Christ Covenant offers free yoga classes
Christ Covenant Metropolitan Church, 109 Hibernia Ave., Decatur, will host free yoga courses with certified Yoga instructor John Hartland on Jan. 17 and 14, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
The free courses will be held in the church’s Davis Hall. The class is open to all ages and all skill levels. First-time visitors are welcome.
Hartland has been practicing Yoga for more than15 years. He is a Certified Yoga Instructor, CYT200 recognized by the National Yoga Alliance. He is trained in classical Yoga and a variety of Yoga disciplines and styles.
If you have a Yoga mat, bring it with you. The church has a limited number of mats for first-timers. Wear comfortable clothing or exercise clothing. The typical class is focused on stretching, breathing exercises, poses, and meditation practices. 404-373-2933.
Oakhurst Presbyterian Church reflects on
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oakhurst Presbyterian
Church, 118 Second Ave., Decatur will host two events during the month of January to honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The church will host its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. breakfast on Jan. 17, 9:30 a.m. Bring your favorite breakfast items and join a meaningful time of fellowship and reflection of the Civil Rights leader.
On Jan. 22, 10 a.m. – 1p.m., the church will host “The Beloved
Community of Martin Luther King, Jr.: Where Are We Now?” This discussion will focus on Dr. King’s work and how today’s community can keep his dream alive. Oakhurst member John Blake, a CNN On-line religion reporter and author of Children of the Movement, will host the panel discussion. Childcare and lunch provided. 404-378-6284.
Hillside International celebrates 40 years
Hillside International Chapel & Truth Center, 2450 Cascade Rd., S.W., Atlanta, will celebrate 40 years of ministry on Jan. 19, 7 p.m.
The worship service will feature the debut of founder and pastor Dr. Barbara Lewis King’s “Dr. Barbara’s Keys to Manifesting Miracles,” a series touted as bringing you what you need to create heaven in 2011.
King began this non-denominational ministry in 1971 with 12 people in her living room. The present Hillside complex, which covers nearly 12 acres, today has a congregation of more than 10,000. 404-472-1929.
Decatur First UMC offers “Al-Anon” Decatur First United Methodist Church will offer
biblical counseling and guidance for families of alcoholics on Jan. 20, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
For over 55 years, Al-Anon (which includes Alateen for younger members) has been offering strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers. It is estimated that each alcoholic affects the lives of at least four other people, making it truly a family disease. No matter what relationship you have with an alcoholic, whether they are still drinking or not, all who have been affected by someone else’s drinking can find solutions that lead to serenity in the Al-Anon/Al-Ateen fellowship.
Decatur First United Methodist Church is located at 300 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. 404-378-4541.
Ray of Hope to host “Diva Dialogue”
Ray of Hope Christian Church’s Daughters of Destiny Women’s Ministry will host “Diva Dialogue” on Jan. 28, 7 p.m.
With the theme “How to still be Fabulous When You’re Broke,” the discussion will focus on your relationship with money, the purchases you make and needs vs. greed. Other questions to be addressed include: Are you on a first name basis with your creditors and do you have a caviar taste, but a Big Mac budget?
Learn how to weather a loss and rebuild your finances with best selling author and motivational speaker, Michelle McKinney Hammond. All women are invited to this free informative discussion. Nursery services will be available.
Ray of Hope Christian Church is located at 2778 Snapfinger Rd., Decatur. 770-696-5100.
Life Abundantly sets LA Gospel Café Life Abundantly Christian Church, 1659 Centennial
Olympic Parkway, Conyers, will host its LA Gospel Café on Jan. 28, 8 p.m. – midnight.
Come for a Christian night out featuring several local artists, musicians and spoken word performers. Attire is casual. The cost to attend is $15 and includes a buffet dinner. 678-301-8598.
Dr. Mrtin Luther King, Jr. Michelle McKinney
caleNDar
Andrew Young
Archbishop Wilton Gregory
JANuAry 15, 2011 PAGE 11
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PAGE 12 JANuAry 15, 2011