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April 2012 PUBLISHER
Pastor Tyrone Crider, Sr.
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Contents
Mr. Tracey Harris
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Leslie Briscoe Dr. Candace Cabbil Daniel Clayborn, MS Ava Simone Collier Dr. Shelley M. Dunson-Allen Bela Gandhi Pastor Joyce Gilmer Micah Harris Jewel Hunter Cassandra Johnson Landry Nurisha Liggins Dr. Saled T. Murphy Minister Tavares Stephens Pastor Juandolyn Stokes Dr. Lisa M. Tait Pastor Yolanda Thompson Robin M. Ware Juana Wooldridge
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The Gospel Tribune Atlanta info@thegospeltribuneatlanta.com advertising@thegospeltribuneatlanta.com www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com Phone: (678) 278-9145
43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards
Cover Story 14 Bishop Paul S. Morton
A man who has dedicated his life to serving with integrity and excellence!
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Arts & Entertainment 17 Preparing Ministries to Reach the World Through Social Media
BET’s Reed Youth In Action
Health & Wellness 18 Women, Hypertension and Stroke: Natural Remedies for Symptons 19 Know the Risks and Signs of Stroke
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Morehouse School of Medicine
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The Gospel Tribune Atlanta is a free monthly publication. There is a $20/year fee for home delivery & online access.
Family Corner Protect your Wireless Home Network Marriage & Business: Can the Two Mix? Where There Is Faith, There Is a Chance to Succeed All the Single Ladies! 8 Steps to a Great First Date
Special Feature 28 The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Scholarship List
Reproduction of the content in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2012 - The Gospel Tribune Atlanta. The opinions expressed herein are those of the columnist and not necessarily of The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Newspaper.
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Youth In Action 13 It’s Easter Time!
jdelgado@avantsoft.net
Tameka Pero tpero@me.com (678) 525-5588 www.tpero.com Cover photo by: Tameka Pero
Editorial Statement Mr. Tracey Harris
Spiritual Enhancement 8 43rd Annual GMA DOVE AWARDS 12 GTA Spotlight: Commissioner Bruce Holmes for his Service in the Community
LAYOUT & DESIGN Joseph Delgado PHOTOGRAPHY
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facebook.com/thegospeltribuneatlanta twitter.com/gospeltribune linkedIn/gospeltribune
Feature
PRODUCTION & OPERATIONS Claudia A. Bowman Karen Gustave Mariah & Nathaniel Harris Tevera Tabron Linda Whatley
Ambassador Andrew & Walter Young YMCA
Mayor Kasim Reed May 2012 Edition Cover
Senior Living 30 Tips for Seniors The Sun and Vitamin D
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CITY OF ATLANTA 55 TRINITY AVE, S.W. ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30335-0300 TEL (404) 330-6100
September 16, 2011 Greetings: As Mayor, it is my pleasure to welcome The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Newspaper to the City of Atlanta. The faith community is a strong pillar in our city. Atlanta’s rich spiritual heritage represents a significant portion of our district history. I extend a warm welcome to The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Newspaper and look forward to receiving your enlightening messages and positive features. Thank you for the tremendous value you add to our community and residents. Your publication provides encouragement for life and spiritual inspiration. On behalf of the people of Atlanta, I extend best wishes to you. Sincerely,
Kasim Reed
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Editorial Statement We are celebrating Easter this month. Easter represents the resurrection of Jesus Christ. That means eternal life to all those who believe in him. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross of our sins! It’s been one year since The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Newspaper launched its inaugural issue. God has truly blessed GTA to experience a year, beyond all of our wildest expectations. Amidst trials, tribulations, and even growing pains, I say, “thank you Lord for all you’ve done for us!” As Editor-in-Chief, I look forward to continuing to spread God’s love and message to the world! We are not stopping or slowing down. However, we are excited to announce GTA will release an issue the first of every month.
Courtesy of GTA
Tameka Pero
In this issue, we acknowledge April is National Minority Health Awareness Month, National Autism Awareness Month and Parkinson Awareness Month. Thank you to Morehouse School of Medicine for its dedication to improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities, increasing the rural diversity of the health professional, scientific workforce and addressing primary healthcare needs through programs, education, research and service with an emphasis on people of color and the underserved urban and population in Georgia and the nation. We are happy to have you as our partner!
Tracey Harris
We have been afforded the opportunity to meet some fascinating men and women who call this wonderful city of Atlanta home. We are so excited to share our interview with the dynamic preacher, teacher, author and world-renowned gospel recording artist, Bishop Paul S. Morton! Bishop Paul S. Morton, presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Church Fellowship, is a man who has dedicated his life to serving with integrity and excellence. A special thank you from the GTA family to Bishop Paul and Pastor Debra Morton for blazing the trail and ministering to the world. GTA would like to highlight all youth who are in action! We are celebrating youth across the country who are doing great things in their communities. If you know a child(ren) ages (6-12) or teen(s) ages (13-18) doing phenomenal things, we want to hear about it. Email us at: info@thegospeltribuneatlanta.com. In His Service,
Mr. Tracey Harris Editor-in-Chief
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Atlanta will host the Dove Awards for a second time at the Fox Theatre on April 19, 2012, following a sold-out show in 2011 hosted by Sherri Shepherd which aired on the Gospel Music Channel and garnered 1.5 million viewers. The Dove Awards have featured performances and appearances by some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports, including the legendary Whitney Houston, Tim Tebow, Sherri Shepherd and Kathie Lee Gifford. It has showcased many of the nation’s leading Christian music artists, including Amy Grant, TobyMac, Michael W. Smith, Kirk Franklin, Casting Crowns, Mary Mary, Third Day and many more. “The GMA is excited to again honor the artists, songwriters and creative individuals in our community through the 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards” said Jackie Patillo, GMA’s Executive Director. “This event not only celebrates great work, but provides a platform to further our mission of exposing, promoting and celebrating the Gospel through music.” GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION’S 43RD ANNUAL GMA DOVE AWARDS NOMINATIONS: Artist of the Year Nominees are: Casting Crowns, Jason Crabb, Laura Story, Lecrae, and The Isaacs New Artist of the Year Nominees are: Jamie-Grace, Dara Maclean, Royal Tailor, Beyond The Ashes and The City Harmonic Producer of the Year are: Bernie Herms, Brown Bannister, Ed Cash, Ian Eskelin, Michael Sykes and Wayne Haun
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Photography by Tameka Pero
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There’s a Plan Customized Just for You! by Kimberly C. Kisner
Do you ever wonder what the weather is going to be like for the week? If you are like me, you probably access weather.com to get the daily weather updates.
You see, in spite of what I’m going through, God is still blessing me. Everything is NOT perfect in my life. Yes, my unemployment is a minor setback in my life. However, no matter what setbacks you experience don’t take a step back because your set back is God setting you up for something better than you could have ever imagined. I tell myself every day that “God has a plan for me.” I don’t know what it is, but I can’t wait until he reveals it. We have to TRUST him. I know it’s easier said than done.
Courtesy of GTA
Courtesy of GTA
For the last 2-3 weeks job opportunities have been coming out of no where for me. I was on a roll, interviewing daily. I even made it through to the second round of interviews for some of the companies. Unfortunately, 2 out of the 5 job opportunities decided to go with another candidate. Did I let that discourage me? I’m going to be honest…yes. While I was looking on weather.com, it dawned on me that it would be nice if we could go to our own personal Web site to see the future forecast for our lives? This Web site would be able to tell us what we could expect on that particular day. Currently, in my jobless situation, I wish I could access that type of Web site so that I would know when I’m getting my next job.
Did I let the fact that these companies didn’t want to hire me make me sad? Yes. But then I had to remember-God has a plan customized just for me. God knows me better than I know myself and apparently, those jobs were not for me.
As you know, there is no such website available that will help us foresee the future, but you know we all have access to someone more reliable and accurate than any web site?
When you are feeling discouraged, here are a few scriptures to encourage you to stay focused on God’s customized plan for you:
We have God. God knows what’s in our future because He has designed a customized plan just for each and every one of us. His plan is good and is guaranteed.
1. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5)
God wants the best for all of us…yes, that includes you too! I know at times it seems like there’s no hope in sight. I constantly have to give God thanks because even though I’m unemployed, I still have a roof over my head, a car to drive and food in my refrigerator.
2. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” (Psalm 32:8)
All this means is that He’s got something better and I just have to hold on and have faith-and so do you.
3. “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass … Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him.” (Psalm 37:4,7)
Kimberly Kisner is a native of Cleveland, OH. She is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She continued to further her education by obtaining a Masters in Business Administration from University of Phoenix. Kimberly has worked at organizations such as Delta Arilines and Elizabeth Baptist Church. She owns her own marketing company called Perceptions Marketing Group.
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The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Spotlight Service in the Community Bruce Holmes
Courtesy of GTA
Henry County District 5 Commissioner Bruce Holmes has had a life long commitment to helping others and giving back to his community. His recent election to the Henry County Board of Commissioners is a continuation of this service to others.
Born in El Paso, Texas and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Bruce earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota in 1987. He went on to earn his Masters in Business Management from the University of Minnesota St. Mary’s. After college, he had a successful professional pro football career that ended in 1993 with the Minnesota Vikings. Always believing that “to whom much is given, much is expected,” Bruce always devoted much of his time volunteering at food banks, senior centers and in youth programs. Recognizing the lack of opportunity among youth in the inner cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Bruce started coaching football and basketball, which led him to create his first non-profit youth organization. This program provided both coaching and mentoring to young people and was recognized as “an organization that makes a difference,” as described by Coach Dennis Green of the Minnesota Vikings. Commissioner Holmes has established the Commissioner Bruce Holmes Youth Athletic Foundation. Working in conjunction with the Henry County Parks and Recreation Department, this new program has attracted nearly 500 youth in baseball and basketball. This fall, a football and cheerleading component will be added. Like earlier programs, there will be a mentoring component as well. As District 5 Commissioner, Bruce has had an even greater opportunity to serve and support his community in areas of public safety, quality of life, transportation infrastructure and business development. In the area of public safety, he has worked to support the move of the Fairview Police precinct to the Publix Plaza in order to reduce crime on businesses and residents. In the areas of quality of life, he has promoted the development of bike trails at Kelleytown Park and the addition of sidewalks and bike lanes on a redesigned Fairview Road. He has also championed the realigning of West Panola Road to alleviate the traffic congestion at Fairview Rd and East Atlanta Rd. Commissioner Holmes has also been a promoter of Henry County, attempting to attract businesses to this community and to make it easier to do business in Henry County. Bruce is currently the Director of National Accounts for a hematology/oncology biotech company. He is the father of three children and two grandchildren. He is also a member of Shiloh Baptist Church in McDonough.
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It’s Easter Time! Whenever Easter time comes around I think of so many things. Fun times spent together with my friends and my family, eating a big Easter dinner, egg hunts, baskets full of candy and new Easter dresses. I am sure parents and other adults don’t think us kids think about much else. But the most important thing to me is what my parents and church has taught me. Easter symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus and that means eternal life to all those that believe in Him. That is the best gift! So even though I will enjoy the candy and getting dressed up, I will remember the true meaning of the season and what it means to be a Christian. Happy Easter everyone! We’d love to hear from you! Please email us at thegospeltribuneatlanta@gmail.com to tell us what Easter means to you. Love & Peace – Micah Harris
Courtesy of GTA
CDC Encourages All Youth To: FUEL UP FOR FUN Whether you hit the court, the field, the track, the rink, or your backyard to get some physical activity, you’ll need some fuel to keep you going! Here are some great snacks to munch on to keep your body moving: Fresh veggies like carrots and celery sticks Snack-sized boxes of raisins Pretzels Low-fat yogurt Crackers — try graham crackers, animal crackers, or saltines Bagels Fig bars Fruit juice boxes (make sure you choose 100% pure fruit juice) Small packages of trail mix Fresh fruits such as bananas, oranges, grapes and berries No matter what type of physical activity you do, you should always be sure to drink plenty of water — before you start, during the activity, and after you’re done, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Courtesy of GTA
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B ishop Paul S . Morton
A man who has dedicated his life to serving with integrity and excellence! Presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Church Fellowship GTA: Tell us about the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship and what’s going on at the church? Bishop: First of all we are grateful for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. It was something God gave to me early in the 90’s. What happened is in 1990, I began to transition our church from a traditional Baptist church to Full Gospel – when we talk about Full Gospel it’s more of a Pentecostal Baptist or a charismatic Baptist. But what we were endeavoring to do is bridge the gap between Baptist and Pentecostals because those were the two fighting groups basically. I wanted to see it happen in my church first at Greater St. Stephen in New Orleans. For two years, I taught on the Holy Ghost, being filled with the Holy Ghost, and how important the Holy Ghost was to a traditional Baptist Church. After the two years were up, I told them, “Listen, I’ve been teaching you and now it’s time to operate in it so those of you who want to be filled, come to the altar.” And I mean people were just everywhere. So I watched the transition of a ministry change from traditional to really believing in the power of God and the fullness of the Holy Ghost. God said seek out 12 people who can really help you in this ministry like the disciples. So in different cities and in different regions we made people overseers. God gave me the 12 that were going to help me put it together. They helped me to work through our transition and that’s why we have Full Gospel today. GTA: Bishop, where is Full Gospel going? Bishop: We are still proclaiming the message as to what we’re all about. We want to educate across the country. We want a place where pastors, ministers, and people in ministry can really learn and understand how to operate in excellence. One of my favorite scriptures is Isaiah 1:17 where it says, “Learn to do well.” GTA: Given the recession right now and all that people are going through, what is your message of hope, your message of love to all of our readers and viewers today?
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Bishop: My message of hope is just believe God’s word. I just spoke it and I stand on that. There is nothing in there about a recession. My God shall supply all of my needs. And on the rock of His word builds the church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. If it would have said, “Everything but a recession”, then I will have said the gates are coming against us. But no gates of hell can come against us if we stand on the Word. What I am finding in this season and what we have to be careful of, is there is a spirit out there that is scaring people. It’s called the spirit of fear. I teach against that spirit of fear that stops people from their destiny and stops them from their goals. So we have to break that bondage of fear. That spirit of fear is so strong because of what people have experienced in their lives. They have to know God is greater than the spirit of fear. GTA: Full Gospel – I hear you have a big event coming up next year? 6N1 conference?
Courtesy of GTA
Bishop: We started 6N1 several years ago but the timing was off. I guess I have always been a little ahead of my time. But I knew how important it was to reach people in every area that we can. 6N1 means pastors from all over the world are going to come together for a pastors conference. Then, we have the men. I believe that when men see a whole lot of men coming together and fired up, they are able to go back to their ministry and say because of Full Gospel´s men´s conference, we are excited. Men have to know their rightful place, the head and not the tail. So the men’s conference is going to be awesome and the women – they are already on fire.
GTA: God has kept you over the years, how do you maintain balance? Bishop: It took me awhile. I think it was a generational curse I had to break. My dad was a workaholic and my wife would probably say I’m still somewhat a workaholic. But, I’ve learned how to balance it out. We take vacations and that’s important because you must rest your mind. That’s what I teach pastors. Sometimes you get burned out and you don’t even know that you are burned out. In 2006, I was
kind of vision, the same kind of goals, then she can work New Orleans as Senior Pastor. She works here as Co-Pastor with me. And it works out well. GTA: You just celebrated 25 years in music and great gospel music I must add. Who are some of your favorite gospel artists? Bishop: Well, I know Pastor Marvin Winans and that man is just awesome. He has an amazing gift and unique talent. I appreciate him so very much.
Courtesy of GTA
I love the whole Winans family though. And of course Pastor Marvin Sapp. The mentors of the past that I have appreciated are like the James Clevelands and the Mattie Moss Clarks. Those are the people that I grew up under and watched them motivate me to do I what I did. diagnosed with colon cancer but I thank God for bring me through it. I listened to the doctor and there were some things I had to change about my level of exercising. I had to change my diet. It’s amazing how we can teach people that the devil is busy. For example, if you are on drugs; you can get off those drugs. But there are people that can get hooked on ice cream. They have to have ice cream before they go to sleep. You can get hooked on anything. But you can’t cast a demon out of somebody else until you cast a demon out of yourself. So, I jog 5 miles a day and just eat right – I stay off of the fried foods. Just balance. That’s really what it’s all about. That’s why I tell people if you can’t spend one hour a day on your body out of 24 hours in a day, I mean do you really love your body? I am 61 years old and God has been good to me and I want to be able to make sure that I’ve given my people the best as it relates to presenting my body, my mind. GTA: First Lady Morton, what is she into? What’s going on? Bishop: You know I thank God for her! That’s the love of my life. I know God gave her to me! Because, of course, even in the raising of our children she is just the best of the best. And even in the beginning of our ministry she was first lady and did that part well. When I married her, she was in the choir and she stayed in the choir for a while, taught Sunday school and then I saw leadership ability in her. She began to organize the women in our ministry. So there was definitely a gift of leadership inside of her. Now her level of her preaching is awesome. She is just one of the greatest preachers that I know. I told God, “Lord I just wish there were two of me. I know my assignment here in Atlanta but I know you still have purpose for us in New Orleans. People needed us there.” I thought if I was just two people it could work. And the Lord said you are two people. You and your wife are one. And so with both of you being one with the same
GTA: What can we expect? Any new releases coming out from you? Bishop: There is one coming out real soon. I am doing another solo project on our label. I am excited because two of the greatest producers are coming together to produce it – Donald Lawrence and my son PJ. GTA: Bishop I notice you have an I-pad with you, how do you use this tool in your ministry? Bishop: Listen, I focus in on my I-pad. Of course, it’s so important to me. I use it on the plane to prepare my sermons. I get my notes off of it and get emails. And also, I Tweet. I believe that there are messages to be shared and I want to speak to people and followers who appreciate my ministry. It’s about communicating with people! I know some pastors say they don’t have time for it but if you don’t have time for people then what are you doing in ministry? It is just remarkable, this is the 21st century and I refuse to get stuck in the 20th century. GTA: If someone wants to get involved in your ministry how can they contact you? Bishop: You can Tweet @BishopPMorton or visit www.cagmin.org. You can call our offices too. GTA: Any parting words that you would like to leave with our readership? Bishop: Tracey, we have a good example in you and how you operate in excellence. That’s important! So you are what people need to see. That’s why I am glad and honored to be a part of the Gospel Tribune Atlanta newspaper.
Courtesy of GTA
I see what God is doing in and through you. And this has to happen as we use our gifts together. We cannot be jealous of one another. We must appreciate each other’s gifts and encourage one another. So that is what I ask you to do. Continue to strive for excellence and trust God and you and the GTA family will be blessed!
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Preparing Ministries to Reach the World Through Social Media by Robin M. Ware
Social Media has literally transformed the way we do church. As ministry leaders we are all proud of our churches and the ministry we provide and social media allows us to share it with the world With a well-trained and organized team, social media can propel your ministry and its services to the next level with the right strategy. Launching a successful social media plan isn’t as difficult or overwhelming as you might think. Here are the steps to get you Courtesy of GTA started and well on your way to utilizing social media to change the way you do church and reach the world: 1. Set up Google. Google is the #1 search engine. It offers an array of products that will help you market your ministry. Once you launch your account, here are some of the services you should take advantage of: a. Profile: establish a Google Profile if your brand is promoting a person b. Places: establish a Google Place if your brand is a business or church c. Alerts: establish this feature to receive an update via email any time your “keywords” are utilized online. d. Analytics: establish analytics to track the traffic that comes to your website. It also registers your domain on Google. e. Voice: set up Google voice to route calls from an office number to another number that you have pre-programmed to “find” you, so that you don’t miss important office calls. f. Google Google+ is Google’s product that challenges Facebook. Google+ allows you to place your friends in “circles” or groups. You can then post a message and it instantly goes to just this circle. It also challenges Skype and successfully allows a group of people to communicate within this circle or group via video and all see each other at the same time. This can literally transform the way committee meetings are held. g. Docs: All I can say about Google Docs, is it is probably one of the best systems that a group can use when working on a project together. It’s a major productivity tool! 2. Set up a Facebook. Facebook is the 2nd most visited website. It allows you to reach and communicate with the other 600 million users. Facebook offers so many options for FREE but here are a few to get started: a. Set up a Personal Page for the leader: Establish a PERSONAL page to communicate with family and friends. The personal page should not be used for marketing purposes. b. Set up a Facebook LIKE page: previously known as a Fan page, establish a LIKE Page to promote a business, service or product to the world.
c. Set up a Facebook Group: Establish a group to share and promote like- minded causes and interests. d. Set up a Facebook Event: Create an event to promote a special event or occasion. e. Set up a Facebook Ad: Once you create your event, link your Facebook Ad to it for only pennies per ad. 3. Set up a Twitter account: Twitter is a micro-blog that allows you to meet and connect with people you probably in life would have never had the chance . 4. Set up a SlideShare,net account: This great site allows you to download PowerPoint, PDF’s or Videos and compress them into email able size files to promote your latest event or services. 5. Set up YouTube: YouTube is the 2nd most used search engine. Launch your own channel and post videos that are unique to you that convey your message, brand and services. 6. Set up Flickr.com: Flickr is an online photo hosting website. Post photos from your services and events that can be shared all over the world. 7. Set up an Email Database system: use a service like Constant Contact or MailChimp to easily create newsletters or quick updates. It also allows you to collect email addresses so you can share your content with everyone. 8. Use an Aggregator site: Utilizing all of these social media sites can be overwhelming so I recommend you use an “aggregator” site like Hootsuite , SocialUmph or TweetDeck to manage all of them from one website. Courtesy of GTA
In closing, to be successful in reaching the world, you must be committed to actively participating on these networks. Make sure that you identify a team that can help you if you already know that you aren’t going to be able to remain consistent. Your social media accounts will grow once you show your commitment level of engaging followers, friends and fans on a regular basis.
Robin Ware is a Social Media Expert that works with churches providing Marketing, Social Media and Event Planning Services. She is a Coach for Meeting and Event Planners and host’s workshops, events and conferences for ministry leaders and entrepreneurs. Follow her on Twitter @robinmware or online at www.thewareagency.com
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Women, Hypertension and Stroke: Natural Remedies for Symptons by Candace Cabbil
Courtesy of GTA
Did you know that women suffer strokes at a higher rate than men? The National Stroke Association asserts that 55,000 more women than men suffer from stroke at 425,000 each year. Additionally, seven out of 10 women are not aware that they are more likely than men to have a stroke. African American
and Hispanic women were less likely than Caucasian women to correctly identify the causes for strokes or are aware of stroke symptoms. However, African American women suffered a significantly higher number of strokes and Hispanic women lead
the way in stroke related deaths compared to Caucasian women. It is important for women to take a comprehensive and holistic approach when looking at their health care needs. As a Naturopathic Practitioner and a woman suffering from stress-induced hypertension, I know the importance of taking my physicianprescribed medication. Nevertheless, I am aware that alternative therapies provide a natural and effective way of resolving the underlying factors of hypertension without the many side effects associated with hypertension medications. I discuss my alternative options with my doctor and we work together to design a treatment plan tailored specifically for my health needs. I encourage women to educate themselves about their individual health care needs and options so that they will feel empowered when taking charge of their health. “Stress and a sedentary lifestyle are other factors to consider when diagnosing and treating hypertension,� according to W. Lee
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Cowden, M.D., author of Longevity: An Alternative Medicine Definitive Guide and cardiologist from Fort Worth, Texas. Major treatable risk factors include diet, exercise, and controlling stress levels. Herbs and botanicals such as those in the garlic family, mistletoe, and olive leaves are known to have hypo-tensive (blood pressure lowering) properties. Calcium, Magnesium (non-chloride salts), and Potassium along with Zinc and antioxidants are nutritional supplements that can help reduce hypertension. Please contact me for a more detailed listing of alternative methods of reducing high blood pressure.
Candace Cabbil is the Naturopathic Doctor and Organizational Development Consultant with Camile Group, LLC.
The Sun and Vitamin D by Candace Cabbil
We all know that proper exercise, fresh air, and natural (raw) foods are important for good health. But did you know that sunshine is just as essential for gaining and maintaining health, strength, beauty, and vitality? It is true that all life require sunlight. The sun’s rays not only influence the skin, but pass through the skin into the body exciting and stimulating the cells and tissues. Dr. Thiel asserts in Combining Old and New: Naturopathy for the 21st Century that it is a proven fact that the skin absorbs the solar energy drawing the blood to the surface, vitalizing the skin and stimulating its respiratory and eliminative functions, thereby relieving the overworked lungs, liver, and kidneys. Sunshine stimulates every function of the body to normal activity.
It is unclear if Vitamin D deficiencies are a long-standing problem or if it is indicative of life-style changes, people shunning the sun, the overuse of sunblock, and the smog covering the sun. Whatever the case, it is clear that the amount of Vitamin D people produce naturally is very low. As you enjoy the final days of summer, remember to do your body some good by enjoying plenty of outdoor activities in fresh air, basking in the sun to produce and boost Vitamin D levels, naturally!
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Courtesy of GTA
The sun and Vitamin D work together synergistically. The sun is the source and activation of Vitamin D production in humans. It is virtually impossible to get enough Vitamin D in the diet naturally, which is the major difference between Vitamin D and all other vitamins. The sun provides it instead. According to the article “The Power of D” in Science News, the ultraviolet rays of the sun trigger the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin producing the vitamin’s seemingly broad benefits — ranging from maintaining bone strength to sharpening mental acuity. Despite the fact that most people don’t get enough sun exposure, the sun is a natural way to optimum health by supporting the proper functioning of the immune system, heart, brain, and the bones. Due to limited sun exposure, most people today suffer from a Vitamin D deficiency. The amount of Vitamin D produced is heavily dependent upon factors such as age, where people live and skin pigment. African Americans, other dark-skinned people, and those living in the northern hemisphere are particularly vulnerable to Vitamin D
deficiency because they do not produce enough. In fact, according to the Washington Post Article, “Vitamin D Deficiency Called Major Health Risk,” a nationwide federal study found that nearly one half of African American women of childbearing age may be Vitamin D deficient.
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Protect your Wireless Home Network
Courtesy of GTA
by Daniel Clayborn, MS
Today’s Wi-Fi devices are very complicated and rushing to get these devices installed on your wireless network is one good way of becoming hacked or leaving the potential to becoming a victim of identify theft.
“VistaStumbler” to see who’s leaving their data up for grabs. If they detect you’re using a Linksys card, they may attempt to connect to your network by trying the linksys SSID. Take another moment to change the default, and you’re halfway there. If you change your SSID every few months, you’re more than half way home.
Here’s a series of steps that you can take to greatly improve the security of your wireless network and reduce the likelihood of your network being hacked.
If you don’t want to call attention to yourself at all, then, turn off your SSID broadcast. Turning off the broadcast SSID function will decrease intrusion by 25%! The hacker will have to guess your network’s name to get in. Starbucks, McDonalds and Panera Bread can get away with broadcasting their SSID, they want customers to use their network, you don’t.
1. Change Default Administrator Passwords (and Usernames) Your wireless router requires a username and password in order to make changes to the device, the login provided with the device (default) are simple and very well-known to hackers on the Internet. Change these settings immediately. 2. Turn on WPA / WPA2 Encryption All wireless equipment supports some form of encryption. Encryption technology scrambles messages sent over wireless networks so that they cannot be easily read by humans. WPA2-PSK is the strongest and most practical form of WPA for most home users. One th1ing to note here, all wireless devices on your network must share the identical encryption settings. Therefore you may need to find a “lowest common denominator” setting. 3. Change your SSID Change the default SSID that came with your wireless router. Each wireless device has a name, called a Service Set Identifier, or SSID. Most networks broadcast this name to make connecting easier. This makes the guessing game much harder for the hacker. Wireless network vendors ship their products with SSID names set to obvious defaults. Hackers can use a program like
4. Disable Auto-Connect On Your Laptop and Mobile Devices As mentioned above, Starbucks, McDonalds and Panera Bread want customers to know their network, since connecting to an open Wi-Fi network exposes your computer to security risks. You want to disable this feature on your wireless laptops and wireless devices. Only under certain temporary situations should this setting be turned on. 5. Enable MAC Address Filtering Within your wireless device, there is a unique identifier called the physical address or MAC address. Your router keeps track of all connecting device MAC addresses. Physically adding the MAC address of your wireless Courtesy of GTA equipment restricts the network to only allow connections from those devices. 6. Enable Firewalls On Each Computer and the Router Ensure that your router’s firewall is turned on. Consider installing and running personal firewall software on each computer (or wireless device) connected to the router. 7. Position the Wireless Router Safely Since Wi-Fi signals extend past the exterior of a home which may result in some signal leakage to outdoors. The further this signal reaches past the walls of your home, the easier it is for others to detect and use. Try to position these devices near the center of the home rather than near windows to minimize leakage.
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8. Turn Off the Network During Extended Periods of Non-Use Shutting down your network is the ultimate prevention of outside hackers breaking in! Consider doing this when traveling or when Internet access is not necessary for a long period of time.
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There’s no such thing as a perfect, 100 percent, secured network. Protecting your home wireless network is no guarantee but it will improve the odds on the safety of your network. Remember, be secure, be safe, be happy!
Marriage & Business: Can the Two Mix? by Dr. Lisa Tait
Marriage is an extremely difficult institution to master. Mix those difficulties with managing a business and it could be catastrophic at best and fatal at worst. Can a married couple run a successful business while managing the vicissitudes of family life? In the best of times balancing marriage and parenting can seem impossible.
We already know that nearly 50% of all marriages in the U.S. end in divorce. The “marriage index” recently released by the Institute for American Values brings even more bad news. Marital health—based on indicators such as the percentage of couples who say they’re “very happy” and the number of couples whose first marriages have stayed intact—has dropped from an index of 76.2 in 1970 to 60.3 in 2008. On a 0 to 100 grading scale, that’s a D- (Louis Upkins, Jr., Bloomsberg BusinessWeek, 2010).
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When we add to this mix the pressures of the current business and economic climate, despite a few recent positive signs, is still considered the most challenging in generations. We are forced to pause and ask the question, “What is the prognosis for a married couple who have decided to run their own business?”
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Should a married couple shun the very thought of building their own business or ministry together because of these grim statistics or are there safeguards that can be put into place to ensure marital/ business bliss. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), statistics show that more than 20 million Americans are working out of the home. Many are husband and wife. So, if there are countless examples of married couples in business and ministry who are thriving – what’s their secret? Here are some helpful pointers to use before, during and after you and your spouse decides to start your own business or ministry. • Discuss Your Business Goals – Develop a business plan, workout a common goal, and be willing to do your part. Each of you needs to know clearly what your passion and destination is, so you both can “paddle” in the same direction. A husband and wife business could either bring you closer together or push you further apart. • Seek Work/Life Balance – Married couples should seek work/life balance by clearly separating work time from family time. Married couples should stick to prescribed work hours. If not, this will often
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lead to private/family time being used to finish the latest project or return business calls. Couples who own a business together must be very intentional about leaving their work at work and focusing on one another during specified family time. Define each other’s roles - You’ll be more productive and efficient if you evaluate each other’s talents and weaknesses and then assign tasks accordingly. Roles that don’t require particular skills can be done by either of you or exchanged as your needs or responsibilities vary. Business Profit Shares - Agree how the profits will be allocated. Decide beforehand who is responsible for bill payments. What are the partner’s salaries? How much of the business profit shares will be invested back into the business. Seek Out Mentors – It is very easy to feel alone and frustrated while trying to make a marriage and a business thrive, however, there are countless examples of people around you who have succeeded at just that. Find a couple to serve as your mentors and ask them the tough questions that continue to plague your relationship. The right mentors are persons with whom you have a personal connection and they will ultimately be a great advantage to you in your career and your own personal development. Stay Positive - A husband and wife business partnership can either be an exciting, lucrative experience or a devastating, lifealtering one. It depends on your attitude, thoughtfulness and willingness to compromise. Be positive and think about the things you can achieve together. Remember to keep God first and if done properly, the benefits could improve your relationship.
Dr. Lisa Tait serves as Executive Director of the Atlanta Center For Healing, Public Relations Manager and Therapist with Mental Health Georgia (www.mentalhealthgeorgia.com) an Adjunct Professor at the ITC, and a radio personality and relationship expert. She is author of Women of Destiny: Five Principles For Pursuing Your Purpose in God and CEO & Founder of Women of Destiny Ministries (www.womenofdestiny.org). Learn more about Dr. Lisa at www.DrTait.com.
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Where There Is Faith, There Is a Chance to Succeed by Tavares Stephens
Imagine entering what should be your senior year in high school and; you find yourself nearly fourteen credits shy of graduation. You are frustrated as you think about what could have been if only you had applied yourself, valued your education, and used every ounce of your time and energy to achieve. You lament over the fact that graduation could be the dream indefinitely deferred. In August of 2010, Stanley Scandrett faced the aforementioned scenario. Yet, nearly nine months later, Stanley’s academic life and destiny have forever been changed for the better. In spite of early academic setbacks, his dream of being a high school graduate has become reality. Stanley began the 2010-11 school year with 12.5 credits. In order to graduate, Stanley needed 23 credits. Many students in this situation choose to drop out. Yet, Stanley did not make that choice. He chose to seek a way to graduate. He enrolled in Clayton County School’s Career Center and Open Campus, also known as the Perry Center for Learning. At the Career Center and Open Campus, students work on both a block schedule and extended day schedule that enables them to earn up to 8 credits per year. Additionally, like other Georgia schools, after school and online classes are offered at the Career Center and Open Campus. So, in addition to his full load of classes, Stanley decided to take every additional class he could add. He took both after school classes, online courses, and his regularly scheduled classes. His goal was to earn 10.5 credits. Through embracing a rigorous course load, Stanley earned the credits and became part of the class of 2011. He completed nearly two years of credits within one year. He even scored on the highest levels of the Science portion Georgia High School Graduation Test. Stanley’s decision helped him avoid being part of the large number of high school students who don’t finish. According to the Georgia Department of Education, 19.2 % of the students who should have graduated last year in Georgia did not complete requirements. And according to the U.S. Department of Education, in 2008, nearly 25% of eligible students did not complete high school. Although Georgia’s graduation rate has steadily increased over the last few years, it should be disturbing that nearly onefifth of the students in our state and one-fourth of our students nationally may end up being non-completers of high school. When asked what helped him turnaround, Stanley credits both faith in God and the grace of God. He also had incredible support from his family. As they encouraged him, he finally embraced the support being giving and developed a laser focus. Stanley says, “I had to discipline myself, cut off certain friends, give up my lunch, and recognize that anything that looked like free time had to be study time.” Amazingly, as Stanley began his turnaround, God began birthing a new gift in his life – the gift of musicianship. As his academic focused increased, so did an ability to play music by ear. Stanley’s gift has grown to the point that he now serves as a lead guitarist for Open Door Evangelistic Pentecostal Church in Atlanta. He travels nationally with the music ministry and God is using him to touch the lives of both believers and nonbelievers across the country. Stanley’s father, Stanley, Sr. was instrumental in his academic rebirth. According to Mr. Scandrett, “Stanley has always been intelligent. Yet, he lost focus. As began to listen to the wise counsel of family and church members, he began to see that faith in God makes things possible.” Mr. Scandrett states further, “While going through his struggles, he began to focus. He began seeing successful people who believed in God and it changed him. After a minister in the church prophesied that he’d be a great musician, his mind opened to a new reality and his talents began to develop.” Mr. Scandrett went on to say that as Stanley’s talents grew, he pushed him to realize that if God would bless him with amazing musical gifts, God would bless him to be a better student. Stanley embraced this idea and that’s when the beautiful story you are reading began to fully unfold. Stanley’s story reminds us that the grace of God can take dead dreams and resurrect them. It also shows us that through faith, hard work, and sound guidance, we can yield to God’s unlimited vision of success for our lives. If we can help all of our children embrace the beautiful challenge of seeking success – even in difficult circumstances – imagine what this world might be like. Students like Stanly Scandrett are leading the way. We must encourage young people like him believe and let their lights shine.
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CD Spolight! Evangelist Dorothy Norwood “God’s Been Just That Good”
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All the Single Ladies! 8 Steps to a Great First Date by Bela Gandhi
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Does the thought of dating put a knot in your stomach? Rest assured - dating well is a skill that can be acquired. Most men are simple. They are looking for warm, happy, kind, and thoughtful women – as they say, a “soft place to land” after work! With this in mind, here are eight great tips to putting your best foot forward for a first date: 1. Step Up Your Feminine Look. Dress beautifully in a dress or skirt. Take some time to get ready for your date. When you feel pretty, you feel confident! 2. Smile a lot. Just like Mama told you. Happy, confident people attract the most people. 3. Be genuinely interested in your date. Be an active listener and ask good questions about something he likes/is interested in. However, please keep in mind to not ask questions as if you’re interrogating him. 4. Break the force field. Give your date a hug when you meet. A gentle, appropriate touch on the arm or back during the evening will jolt him into paying closer attention to you! 5. Be very prepared to chat. Think of fun and interesting stories about yourself that cast you in a good light. They could be about the great things you cook, your beautiful drawings, places you’ve traveled, fun childhood stories, and unique interests. Word to the wise though – don’t oversell you. 6. Leave your “Inner CEO” at home. Don’t be bossy, demanding, rigid, or argumentative – definite deal breakers! 7. Be lavish with appreciation. We all love to hear nice things. Telling him, “I had such a nice time this evening, thank you!!” will make him feel good, and hopefully, want to take you out again! 8. Give him the benefit of the doubt. Don’t rule out a guy unless he demonstrates truly inexcusable behavior on the first date. Chemistry is very unpredictable and usually takes several dates to develop. This is important – the frog on date 1 can turn into Prince Charming by date 4!
Happy Dating!
Bela Gandhi is the Founder and President of the Smart Dating Academy, a full service personal consulting firm that provides busy, successful professionals with dating coaching, image consulting, personal shopping, professional photography and online dating consulting. She is the head dating coach for Smart Dating - and has an uncanny sixth sense about people, and what they need. Her intuition has been responsible for several marriages (and children)! She personally coaches each client at Smart Dating..
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The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Scholarship List by Jewell Hunter
We’re approaching that time of the year again. High school seniors are preparing for graduation; and anxiously waiting for their opportunity to matriculate through the higher education system. However, many of them are faced with the financial roadblocks. In order to assist with this transition we have provided a list of scholarship opportunities. DISCUS AWARDS COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS Eligibility: Scholarships for high school seniors, juniors, sophomores and freshmen Deadline: March 31, 2012
Amount: Up to $2,500
March 31st is the deadline for the April 2012 National All-Around Student Scholarship. The Discus Awards, which rewards all-around high school students for their achievements in three of ten key attributes, offers multiple scholarship opportunities, including a $2,000 National All-Around Student Scholarship to a Discus Award winner each month of the school year. Students must be named Discus Award winners to be eligible for the $2,000 National AllAround Student Scholarships so nominate yourself now for an award and scholarship. The National All-Around Student Scholarships total $20,000 each year. ODENZA MARKETING SCHOLARSHIP Eligibility: Scholarship for students between the ages of 16 and who achieved at least a 2.5 GPA in their previous year of study Deadline: March 30, 2012
Amount: $500
SHIRE 2012 ADHD SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Eligibility: Scholarship for U.S. citizens accepted to or attending an approved college, university, vocational, or technical school as an undergraduate student that has been diagnosed with ADHD and is under the care of a licensed health care professional for ADHD Deadline: March 30, 2012
Amount: $2,000
$2,000 “NO ESSAY” COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP Eligibility: Scholarship for current students and those planning to enroll within 12 months Deadline: March 31, 2012
Amount: $2,000
CENTRAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS Eligibility: Scholarships for high school seniors, college freshmen, college sophomores, college juniors, college seniors, graduate students and vocational students Deadline: April 1, 2012
Amount: Up to $10,000
WyzAnt College Scholarship Eligibility: Scholarship for students who plan to enroll in a four-year college or university between 2012 and 2014 Deadline: April 1, 2012
Amount: Up to $5,000
LITTLE PEOPLE OF AMERICA SCHOLARSHIP Eligibility: Scholarship for prospective and current students shorter than 4’10” attending college or vocational school in the United States Deadline: April 22, 2012
Amount: Up to $1,000
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES SCHOLARSHIP Eligibility: Scholarships for high school seniors and college freshmen Deadline: May 30, 2012
Amount: $5,000
THE BIG DOG SCHOLARSHIP Eligibility: Scholarships for high school seniors, college freshmen, and college sophomores Deadline: June 1, 2012
Amount: $3,000
DISABILITY SCHOLARSHIPS FROM MILITARYVALOAN.COM Eligibility: Scholarships for high school seniors Deadline: June 10, 2012
Amount: $1,000
MEDIA FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Eligibility: Scholarships for rising college juniors and seniors who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their major concentration Deadline: July 30, 2012
Amount: Up to $5,000
THE ZINCH $20,000 SCHOLARSHIP To get started on applying for this college scholarship, you have to create a free profile on their site. Eligibility: applicants must be a current high school student graduating in 2011, 2012, 2013, or 2014. Scholarship applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, All applicants Zinch profiles must be over 80% complete in order to be eligible for this scholarship opportunity. Deadline:
Amount: $20,000
SHEPHERD SCHOLARSHIP HTTP://WWW.SRMASON-SJ.ORG Eligibility: * Must be a United States citizen stuying at an accredited school in the United States. * No Masonic background required.
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Amount: $6000 max
Deadline: April 1, 2012
Eligibility: Anyone who plans to be enrolled in a four year college or university sometime between the application year and the next 2 years is encouraged to apply. This includes most high school sophomores through college juniors.
Kentucky Fried Chicken Colonel’s Scholars Scholarship could receive up to $20,000 over four years to help complete a bachelor’s degree. Eligibility: To be eligible to compete for the KFC Colonel’s Scholars Scholarship, an individual must have earned a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. The scholarship applicant must plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a public, in-state college or university, be a US citizen or permanent resident, and demonstrate a financial need for college.
Application Overview
Additional Scholarship Websites to Visit
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www.atlantascholarships.com/ http://www.scholarshipsgrants.us/a-list-of-scholarships-for-collegestudents/ http://collegescholarshiplist.com/ http://www.noessayscholarshipsonline.com/top-5-easyscholarships-for-high-school-seniors/ http://www.cappex.com/scholarships/
WYZANT COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS WWW.WYZANT.COM
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Must complete an online application. Applicants will be asked to compose an essay to the following prompt: In 300 words or less, write an essay about the most important lesson you have learned in your life. Using your email and social media contacts, reach out to friends and family to get votes for your essay. Finalists will be determined by popular vote!
Amount: 10,000 max
Deadline: April 1, 2012
WISHING WORKS INC. “DARE TO DREAM” SCHOLARSHIP Eligibility: U.S. citizen, graduating senior, and enrolling as a fulltime student at an accredited four year university. Application Overview • Copy of highest ACT and/ or SAT. • Copy of official high school transcript. • Copy of complete FAFSA report including EFC. • One teacher recommendation (limit: 2). • One personal recommendation (cannot be a teacher or family member - limit: 2). • Complete application form. Amount: $1,000 max
Deadline: April 1, 2012
DR SEUSS SCHOLARSHIP 2012 - OH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO Application Deadline Tentative November 2012 - January 2013 Award Amount $10,000 When I was a child, I remember reading so many of Dr. Seuss children books. One of the most inspirational, and very appropriate for high school seniors as they enter college, is the best selling book Oh, the Places You’ll Go! By Dr. Seuss. So dust off your childhood books and read this classic, then apply for the Dr. Seuss scholarship. In 2010 this was a writing scholarship, and in 2011 an art contest, so we will see what the Dr. Seuss scholarship requirements will be in 2012. This is one of the fun but weird unknown scholarships for college, and one of the best scholarships for high school seniors. For more information see Dr Seuss Scholarship Application.
THE NORDSTROM SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Amount: Nordstrom Scholarship Program awards 40 college scholarships of $10,000. These college scholarships are paid out in equal installments of $2,500 over four years to the college of the student’s choice. Deadline: May 1, 2011 THE KFC SCHOLARSHIP FOR COLLEGE WWW.KFCSCHOLARS.ORG Amount: KFC Colonel’s Scholars Program provides funding for: Tuition, Fees, Books and Room and Board. College scholarship awards can be up to $5,000 per year. The scholarship winner of the
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Eligibility: • Live and attend school in one of the participating 30 states where Nordstrom currently has a full-line store. • Have at least a 2.7 GPA (based on a 4.0 scale) throughout high school. Volunteer or participate in community services or extracurricular activities. • Plan on attending an accredited four-year college or university during the four years over which the scholarship is distributed. The scholarship is paid out in equal installments of $2,500. • Plan on applying for financial assistance in order to attend college. Jewel Hunter founded Camp Jewell House in 2009. She received a Bachelors of Arts in English from Clark Atlanta University in 1994, a Teaching Certificate in 2005. She became Advanced Placement certified in language in 2007 and gifted endorsed in 2009. In addition, she received a Masters of Science Degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University in 2009.
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Here are some tips for Seniors to stay safe & comfortable during periods of higher heat: • Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. On hot days, the body loses moisture more rapidly, so keep yourself hydrated with water or fruit juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which cause the body to lose more fluid. (If you are on a fluid-restricted diet, speak to your healthcare provider about staying hydrated during periods of heat.)
Plan ahead for hot weather. Check on senior friends and relatives, especially those with no air conditioning in their homes. Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, and take them to a cool place during the hottest hours of the day.
• Keep your home comfortable by letting in cool air during the early morning and evening hours. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on two sides of the building. Use fans to circulate cooler air. Close curtains and blinds during the warmest hours.
• Dress for the weather. Wear short-sleeve, loose-fitting garments. Natural fibers and light colors are cooler than synthetic materials and dark colors. And don’t forget your sun hat! • Exercise and work outside only during the cooler hours of the day, and pace your activities. As past years have shown, heat waves hit seniors the hardest.
Since 1965, Senior Citizen Services of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. (SCS) has been at the heart of the aging network in Atlanta - dedicated to serving the senior community. SCS’ mission is to support senior independence through meals, shelter, education and community. Our vision is that no Atlanta senior is hungry, cold or forgotten. SCS offers metropolitan Atlantans a variety of services in an effort to meet the needs of the aging community. SCS continues to expand its tradition of cost-effective and innovative services for older adults and their families.
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Courtesy of GTA
• Take a break at an air conditioned location during the hottest part of the day. Go the mall, a movie, the library. Many communities, social service agencies, religious groups and senior citizen centers also provide services such as cooling centers.
Today’s Need Senior Citizen Services is a safety net for Atlanta’s vulnerable and frail seniors and a resource for isolated or disconnected seniors. Seniors who receive services lack the income and physical capability to cook for themselves, properly maintain their homes in order to remain in their preferred living environment. • 92.5% of clients have an income level of less than $19,000 per year • 64.5% of clients are living alone • 83% of clients are women • 74% of clients are 70 years old or greater • 75% of clients utilize our programs to stay in their own homes as they age • More than 2500 requests for assistance in 2011 • Senior Citizen Services’ seniors are utilizing our programs to maintain their independence and dignity. The potential for strengthening this impact has never been stronger. Unfortunately, even current levels of funding are insufficient to meet the needs within the community: • There are waitlists for most of Senior Citizen Services’ current services • More than 500 seniors are awaiting assistance. • Senior Citizen Services will receive more than 2,500 requests for assistance in 2011 Phone: (404) 351-3889 1705 Commerce Drive, NW Atlanta, GA 30318 www.scsatl.org
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