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Were you aware that a child is abducted every 40 seconds in this country? Moreover, did you know that over 40% of these chil-dren are African American? If not, you are not alone because few people are aware of this epidemic. The truth is that African American children receive limited media coverage when they go missing. Sadly, without this exposure it is less likely that they will be safely found.

The staff at Peas In Their Pods works diligently to spread awareness about this issue by alerting media outlets as needed when African American children are missing or abducted. Our mission is to make communities aware of the plight of these children, and to make them a national priority. Peas In Their Pods are concerned about all our children, the organization strives to bring awareness to any child missing, no matter, race color. The commitment is to keep the public on alert and aware. There are many organizations across this country who’s mission is to provide re-sources to families in helping to building stronger and healthier children. Com-munity based organizations are key factors in developing opportunities that will help our children advance to higher levels of achievement, without these addi-tional support systems our children and families would lack the most. It still takes a village…!!!

Sincerely, Denise Bethune, Editor-In-Chief Whitesboro, New Jersey www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmail.com

Editor’s Message

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“ For Indeed Man Was Not Created For The Woman’s Sake, But For The Man’s Sake”

Happy Mother’s Day You Are The Rib That Holds It All Together. Mother's Day, honorable in the true sense of sacrifices made in building our fami-lies, communities. You are a special and remarkable group of Beautiful Mothers who are truly dedi-cated in giving wisdom, unconditional love, guidance to your families and friends near and beyond. You don't walk away, you stay to catch the fallen and bruised. You give life to everything that cross your path and sometimes just your presence does the trick. I pray your day is filled with celebrations of who you are to so many people who love you on a daily basis. A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials, heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine, desert us when troubles thicken around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavour by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.

Thanking God For You, May HIS Light Shine Over You Always Celebrating You...With Love

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In This Issue

Lisa (Left-Eye) Lopez Foundation Innovative Approaches, LLC

The Kn.E.R.D.S.

Family Promise of Cape May County Network Director: Laurie Johnson

Parenting Corner Gaetane Borders

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

Sharon Fox

Safely Ever After, Inc. Patti Fiztgerald

Monthly Tasty Treat

Pat Holmes

The Barack Obama Green Charter High School

Miss Safiyah Sadiq

D3 COMMUNITY OUTREACH, INC Mr. Malcom Reed

Paula Whitebear-Burton

“A Mother’s Love

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Circumstances: Gianni and Joseph Jr. were last seen on February 4, 2010. They may be in the company of Summer McStay and Joseph McStay Sr. Joseph Jr. has a birthmark

on his forehead. Joseph Sr. has tattoos on both of his shoulders. Summer may use the alias date of birth January 1, 1978.

ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST)

San Diego County Sheriff's Office (California) 1-858-565-5200

JOSEPH MATEO MARTELLI MCSTAY JR. GIANNI GIUSEPPE MARTELLI MCSTAY

Case Type: Endangered Missing DOB: Jan 31, 2007

Sex: Male Missing Date: Feb 4, 2010

Race: White Age Now: 3

Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Brown

Height: 2'6" (76 cm) Weight: 35 lbs (16 kg)

Missing City: FALLBROOK Missing State : CA

Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC1141362

Case Type: Endangered Missing DOB: Jul 9, 2005

Sex: Male Missing Date: Feb 4, 2010

Race: White Age Now: 4

Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Brown

Height: 3'0" (91 cm) Weight: 40 lbs (18 kg)

Missing City: FALLBROOK Missing State : CA

Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC1141362

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Headquartered in Stone Mountain, Georgia the Lisa Lopes Foundation (LLF) was developed in 2003 by Lisa's mother,

Wanda Lopes-Colemon, her brother Ronald Lopes and family friend Anashay Murphy.

LLF was inspired by Lisa's dream of giving back to youth.

LLF is dedicated to the betterment of youth and currently operates in Metro-Atlanta and Honduras, Central America.

Visit LLF online at www.lisalopesfoundation.org

Mission:

The Lisa Lopes Foundation, Inc. (LLF) &

Innovative Approaches, LLC. are dedicated to exposing youth from various communities and diverse cultural backgrounds to

innovative programs, songs and resources to increase motivation and strengthen their desire to stay in school.

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A new non-profit affiliate of a national twenty three (23) year network known as Interfaith Hospitality Network, or IHN.

Mission: To provide through interfaith collaboration, the caring and charitable services and shelter facilities needed to assist any low-income homeless children and their families in Cape May County, including but not limited to, emergency shelter, food, clothing, casesupportive services…ultimately assisting parents to find permanent housing and build a stable fu-ture for their children and themselves.

Tax Status: Family Promise of Cape May County is tax exempt per IRS Section 501( c )3. Service Area: Network Director: Laurie Johnson Case Manager: Kathleen O’Neill Contact Numbers: 846 Statement of Need

With no family emergency shelter in Cape May Countytime - usually isolated placement in motels, or referred to shelters in other counties, both severely disrupting their lives. Belimited cooking, laundry and storage facilities, significant expense and inconvenience is created for the families no matter wheThe children of the targeted homeless families, must survive in physically unhealthy situations, witness drug use and violence, to place and school to school, have few friends and experience academic failure. Without support or intervention, they, like thtend to become psychologically vulnerable, and live with feelings of distrust, fear, and emptiness that tend to follow them intothroughout the rest of their lives.

“ We believe that it is unacceptable for even one child to be without a home in Cape May County or anywhere in our country. “ History and Experience Family Promise, a national organization, incorporated in 1988, to develop concept programs designed to address the underlying caness on a nationwide basis. The satellite programs are implemented by local affiliates and supported by Family Promise through ship, consultations, documentation manuals, and training. Family Promise is a four-ranks at the top of its peer group, which supports homeless families. According to the latest Family Promise Program Services Rlocal affiliates operating across the country. 3,048 families comprised of 9,747 individuals (59% children) were served. All tviduals received some form of assistance nationwide from Family Promise. Locally, FPCMC, was incorporated to bring the nationalpertise and twenty years of experience, together with the facilities and resources of our local congregations in order to bear homeless problem. FPCMC board members have since consolidated the critical mass of interfaith congregations to support handshousing program. Since our doors opened May 10, 2009, we have presently served, and are serving eleven families comprised of 32 children). For additional information visit: www.familypromisecmc.org

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profit affiliate of a national twenty three (23) year network known as Interfaith Hospitality Network, or IHN.

To provide through interfaith collaboration, the caring and charitable services and shelter facilities income homeless children and their families in Cape May County, including

but not limited to, emergency shelter, food, clothing, case-management, educational programs and supportive services…ultimately assisting parents to find permanent housing and build a stable fu-ture for their children and themselves.

Service Area: Cape May County Kathleen O’Neill Contact Numbers: 846-7862 or 350-4875

With no family emergency shelter in Cape May County, homeless families remain at the mercy of whatever resources are available at the usually isolated placement in motels, or referred to shelters in other counties, both severely disrupting their lives. Because motels have

limited cooking, laundry and storage facilities, significant expense and inconvenience is created for the families no matter where they are placed. The children of the targeted homeless families, must survive in physically unhealthy situations, witness drug use and violence, move from place to place and school to school, have few friends and experience academic failure. Without support or intervention, they, like their parents, slowly tend to become psychologically vulnerable, and live with feelings of distrust, fear, and emptiness that tend to follow them into adulthood and

“ We believe that it is unacceptable for even one child to be without a home in Cape May County or anywhere in our country. “

Family Promise, a national organization, incorporated in 1988, to develop concept programs designed to address the underlying causes of homeless-ness on a nationwide basis. The satellite programs are implemented by local affiliates and supported by Family Promise through extensive leader-

-star (their highest rating) charitable organization that consistently ranks at the top of its peer group, which supports homeless families. According to the latest Family Promise Program Services Report, there are 141 local affiliates operating across the country. 3,048 families comprised of 9,747 individuals (59% children) were served. All total, over 30,000 indi-viduals received some form of assistance nationwide from Family Promise. Locally, FPCMC, was incorporated to bring the national Family Promise ex-pertise and twenty years of experience, together with the facilities and resources of our local congregations in order to bear on this county’s family homeless problem. FPCMC board members have since consolidated the critical mass of interfaith congregations to support hands-on emergency housing program. Since our doors opened May 10, 2009, we have presently served, and are serving eleven families comprised of 32 individuals (21

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El-Jahid Forever Allah

· Missing Since: · March 14, 2003 from Charlotte, North Carolina

· Classification: Endangered Missing · Date Of Birth: November 12, 2000

· Age: 2 · Height: 2'5"-2'6" Weight: 30 lbs.

· Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown · Race: Black Gender: Male

· Distinguishing Characteristics: · Birthmark under right eye

· AKA: "El", "Jah" · Case Number: 2003-0325-1718-01; NCMC958842

Allah was last seen on March 14, 2003 in Charlotte,

North Carolina in the company of his non-custodial father. If you have any information concerning this case, please contact:

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (704) 353-1000

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"Energy never dies…"Energy never dies…"Energy never dies…"Energy never dies… it just transforms" it just transforms" it just transforms" it just transforms"

are the famous words of are the famous words of are the famous words of are the famous words of Lisa "LeftLisa "LeftLisa "LeftLisa "Left----Eye" Lopes.Eye" Lopes.Eye" Lopes.Eye" Lopes.

Today, Lisa Lopes' energy has transformed into one of the hottest up and coming per-formance groups out today....

the New Knerds (KKKKnowledgeable, EEEEducated, RRRRelentlessly, DDDDriven, SSSScholars).

The New Kn.E.R.D.S. New Kn.E.R.D.S. New Kn.E.R.D.S. New Kn.E.R.D.S. are a group of “Scholars” from the Metro Metro Metro Metro AtlantaAtlantaAtlantaAtlanta Area Area Area Area defying the odds using Music as a tool to pro-

mote education and address issues today’s youth face

on a daily basis… inside and outside of schoolinside and outside of schoolinside and outside of schoolinside and outside of school....

The Kn.E.R.D.S.

http://newknerds.com/

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Gaétane Borders is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psychologist who works closely with the inner-city youth and their parents. She is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent achieve healthy, harmonious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television.

Who can avoid all the recent news headlines…”Kids killing kids….kids killing parents….teen domestic violence…gang attacks in broad daylight.” With news like this, one can honestly begin to question whether there’s something in the water.

Just today I spent time with a 5th grader who was brought to me (unwillingly) by an Assistant Principal. Although dressed in the school’s mandatory uniform, his pants were a good two sizes too big, and hung a bit lower than necessary. But that pales in comparison to the fact that his short sleeves exposed his self-made tattoos. “The God in Me,” “Get At Her,” and a picture of a sword were some of the things he had drawn with a black sharpie. In addition, there was the acronym “YMC” scrawled in the middle of various symbols. I couldn’t confirm whether it is an actual gang, or for what it stood…but I can only assume. I dug deeper into this student’s background to learn that he comes for an upper middle class upbringing, with educated parents. However, his behavior at school leaves a lot to be desired. To put it bluntly…he’s a wanna’ be thug, and al-though handsome, his behaviors make him less than adorable! It’s not easy working with kids like him, and it sometimes seems that the more you try…the harder they push you away. But you knme even more?...When people give up on kids like him. You know the ones I’m talking about… the fowl mouth having, eye rolling, tcutting, weed smoking, fight provoking, droopy pants wearing, and sometimes gun toting kids. Why? Because I have learned over thneath the hard and often thuggish exterior is typically an emotionally wounded child.have to stay on that road. Sometimes all it takes is for someone to care enough to mentor them. There are so many ways to make an impact with kids. It could be that you forge meaningful relationships with kids in your neighchildren's friends. Whether you are someone who actively goes out each day and speaks to crowds of people about ways to remedy problems we see, or someone who has a few hours a month to spend mentoring kids....we can all do something. Let's all just stop talking about it and BE ABOUT IT. This generation deserves it! Happy Parenting....AND MENTORING;), Gaetane

PARE�TI�G COR�ER

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Gaétane Borders is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psychologist who works closely with city youth and their parents. She is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent

achieve healthy, harmonious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television.

Who can avoid all the recent news headlines…”Kids killing kids….kids killing parents….teen domestic violence…gang attacks in broad daylight.” With news like this, one can honestly begin to question whether there’s something in the water.

Just today I spent time with a 5th grader who was brought to me (unwillingly) by an Assistant Principal. Although dressed in the school’s mandatory uniform, his pants were a good two sizes too big, and hung a bit lower than necessary. But that

made tattoos. “The God in Me,” “Get At Her,” and a picture of a sword were some of the things he had drawn with a black sharpie. In addition, there was the acronym “YMC” scrawled in the middle of various symbols. I couldn’t confirm whether it is an actual gang, or for what it stood…but I can only assume. I dug deeper into this student’s background to learn that he comes for an upper middle class upbringing, with educated parents. However, his behavior at school leaves a lot to be desired. To put it bluntly…he’s a wanna’ be thug, and al-

It’s not easy working with kids like him, and it sometimes seems that the more you try…the harder they push you away. But you know what frustrates me even more?...When people give up on kids like him. You know the ones I’m talking about… the fowl mouth having, eye rolling, teeth sucking, class cutting, weed smoking, fight provoking, droopy pants wearing, and sometimes gun toting kids. Why? Because I have learned over the years that under-neath the hard and often thuggish exterior is typically an emotionally wounded child. Just because they are on a wrong path does not mean that they

Sometimes all it takes is for someone to care enough to mentor them.

It could be that you forge meaningful relationships with kids in your neighborhood, or with your who actively goes out each day and speaks to crowds of people about ways to remedy some of the social

problems we see, or someone who has a few hours a month to spend mentoring kids....we can all do something.

This generation deserves it!

PARE�TI�G COR�ER

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Missing Since: September 29, 2002 from Whiteville, North Carolina Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: August 24, 1998 Age: 4 Height: 3'10" Weight: 90 lbs. Hair Color: Brown/Black Eye Color: Brown Race: Black Gender: Female Distinguishing Characteristics: Light complexion. Pierced ears.Birthmark on her arm in the shape of a seashell. Her hair was styled in small braids tied with small bows and/or barrettes. Clothing: Gray FUBU t-shirt, blue jeans, white socks and blacksneakers. NCIC Number: M-552739886 Case Number: NCMC946349 Kynande was reportedly last seen by her mother, Vartasha "Tasha" McCullough, at a Kway, South Carolina and were visiting Kynande's uncle in Whiteville, North Carolina that day. At first McCullough claimed Kynandan aisle of the store, but she later changed her story and said she walked into the store and thought Kynande was behind her, buand she was gone. Nobody remembered seeing the child with her mother in K-Mart that day. Investigators claim that there is no evidence that Kynandthe state at the time. No one other than Kynande's parents saw her in the two days before she was reported missing. Authorities biological evidence in McCullough's apartment that suggested a physical assault had taken place. The evidence was matched through DNA to Kynande.aiding and abetting, unlawful neglect of a child and inflicting great bodily harThe judge sentenced her to 20 years in prison.

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: Light complexion. Pierced ears.Birthmark on her arm in the shape of a seashell. Her hair was styled in small

Kynande was reportedly last seen by her mother, Vartasha "Tasha" McCullough, at a K-Mart department store at 5:00 p.m. They resided in Con-way, South Carolina and were visiting Kynande's uncle in Whiteville, North Carolina that day. At first McCullough claimed Kynande disappeared in an aisle of the store, but she later changed her story and said she walked into the store and thought Kynande was behind her, but turned around

Mart that day. Investigators claim that there is no evidence that Kynande was even in the state at the time. No one other than Kynande's parents saw her in the two days before she was reported missing. Authorities later discovered biological evidence in McCullough's apartment that suggested a physical assault had taken place.

The evidence was matched through DNA to Kynande.aiding and abetting, unlawful neglect of a child and inflicting great bodily harm on a child.

Kynande Kalehje Bennett

Age Progression

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What happens when get a group of Borderline Geniuses known as the New Knerds. It is a new and exciting day for future generations, the music industry and the face of entertainment worldwide! Educators, Music Producers, such as Travis Porter, Ying Yang Twins, etc) and entertainers such as Voe of New Editionnation’s educational system, utilizing the vein of Music. The Lisa “Leftwith effacious lyrics that promote a “highly” inspirational message is a great recipe for creating one of our best “allies” in the fight for education. LLF would like to introduce the New Kn.E.R.D.S., a group of Scholars and former students of Kortni Boyd and Anashay Wright, founders of vative Approaches Education Consulting Firm

The New Knerds are a performance group consisting of creative scholars committed to spreading a positive and relevant message abyoung people are facing in an age of technology, single parent homes, lack of motivation in school and character building using guage of Music! This group is unlike any other! Who would have EVER imagined a group of students that had been repeatedly labeled as ADD and/or actually gifted, BORDERLINE Geniuses!!! Many were transformed from being nearly delinquent to highly successful in school.verse bunch of witty, fun, and talented scholars, the approach to creating music is most refreshing and real. Our Mission: The New Knerds aim to inspire our country’s future leaders, using music as tool to moti-vate, educate and inspire ALL college and career bound scholars; while reshaping the face of the today’s classroom and current educational system. Our goal: To serve on the frontline of defense of a movement known as, “World War E…The New Fight for Education.” The New Knerds want to educate the masses about the issues school age children are facing inside and outside the classrooms. We want to educate the world about issues such as, lowmotivation in the classroom, pervasive images on the internet and high crime rates among children under age 18. To book a Show at your Church, School or Community Event please email Anashay Wright atwww.newknerds.com Twitter @ www.twitter.com/NewKnerds

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What happens when Progressive Music Collides with Effacious Lyrics??? Well, you get a group of Borderline Geniuses known as the New Knerds. It is a new and exciting day for future generations, the music industry and the face of entertainment world-

Educators, Music Producers, such as Mr. Hanky of Collipark Music (Soulja Boi, Travis Porter, Ying Yang Twins, etc) and entertainers such as T-Boz and Ronnie De-Voe of New Edition have created an alliance to address the growing concerns of our nation’s educational system, utilizing the vein of Music.

The Lisa “Left-Eye” Lopes Foundation (LLF) believes a fusion of well-produced beats with effacious lyrics that promote a “highly” inspirational message is a great recipe for creating one of our best “allies” in the fight for education. LLF would like to introduce the New Kn.E.R.D.S., a group of Knowledgeable-Educated-Relentlessly-Driven-

and former students of Kortni Boyd and Anashay Wright, founders of Inno-vative Approaches Education Consulting Firm.

The New Knerds are a performance group consisting of creative scholars committed to spreading a positive and relevant message about the issues young people are facing in an age of technology, single parent homes, lack of motivation in school and character building using the Universal Lan-

This group is unlike any other! Who would have EVER imagined a group of students that had been repeatedly labeled as ADD and/or ADHD where Many were transformed from being nearly delinquent to highly successful in school. With such a di-

verse bunch of witty, fun, and talented scholars, the approach to creating music is most refreshing and real.

The New Knerds aim to inspire our country’s future leaders, using music as tool to moti-vate, educate and inspire ALL college and career bound scholars; while reshaping the face of the today’s

To serve on the frontline of defense of a movement known as, “World War E…The New Fight for Education.” The New Knerds want to educate the masses about the issues school age children are facing inside and outside the classrooms. We want to educate the world about issues such as, low-motivation in the classroom, pervasive images on the internet and high crime rates among children under age 18.

book a Show at your Church, School or Community Event please email Anashay Wright at anashay@lisalopesfoundation.org.

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Chioma Gray Has Been Missing for Two Years: Where is She?Written By: Delilah

Chioma Gray has turned 18 years old. However, chances are she won’t be celebrating with her family and friends in Ventura, CA, but, most likely, somewhere in Mexico.

On December 13, 2007, school surveillance cameras show a young man, 20 year old, Andrew Tafoya, arriving at Buena High School soChioma was dropped off by her father. Andrew Tafoya had been released from jail the day before on charges of unlawful sex with a

That minor was Chioma Gray, who was 14 at the time of the incident. It’s reported that Tafoya arrived in a stolen car and authorChioma left with Tafoya willingly. FBI has charged Tafoya with child stealing, unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and auto the

The family, especially her mother, Francine Black, do not feel that Chioma willingly left the country with Tafoya, who had mentihe had a desire to take her to Mexico. Cameras at the Mexican border show the license tag of the stolen car Tafoya and Gray wereborder.

Chioma Gray was an excellent student with a 4.0 grade average, getting ready to graduate high school when she went off with Tafodisagrees with the police, and feels that she did not go with Tafoya willingly, as they have expressed. Black has not been interFBI, other than to be told that her daughter is dead. Even if that’s true, she would not stop looking for her, dead or alive, answers as to her daughter’s whereabouts.

Franicine Black is now getting help from former assistant police chief of Oxnard Chuck Hookstra. They established an anonymous tnumber is (805) 844-5045. The number is not associated with law enforcement. It’s easy to speculate about what may have happenecould be any number of scenarios, but without a doubt there are tons of unanswered questions about the disappearance of Chioma G

Many online sites are uniting to bring information to the public about Chioma’s vanishing. this case that may grow cold if we don’t. We must not let that happen.

For more information on Chioma, join her Facebook page Take part in an awareness campaign along with can to spread the word that Chioma needs to come home.

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Chioma Gray Has Been Missing for Two Years: She?

Chioma Gray has turned 18 years old. However, chances are she won’t be celebrating with her family and friends in Ventura, CA, but, most likely, somewhere in

On December 13, 2007, school surveillance cameras show a young man, 20 year old, Andrew Tafoya, arriving at Buena High School soon after Chioma was dropped off by her father. Andrew Tafoya had been released from jail the day before on charges of unlawful sex with a minor.

That minor was Chioma Gray, who was 14 at the time of the incident. It’s reported that Tafoya arrived in a stolen car and authorities believe that Chioma left with Tafoya willingly. FBI has charged Tafoya with child stealing, unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and auto theft.

The family, especially her mother, Francine Black, do not feel that Chioma willingly left the country with Tafoya, who had mentioned to others that he had a desire to take her to Mexico. Cameras at the Mexican border show the license tag of the stolen car Tafoya and Gray were in crossing the

Chioma Gray was an excellent student with a 4.0 grade average, getting ready to graduate high school when she went off with Tafoya. Her mother disagrees with the police, and feels that she did not go with Tafoya willingly, as they have expressed. Black has not been interviewed by police nor FBI, other than to be told that her daughter is dead. Even if that’s true, she would not stop looking for her, dead or alive, and deserves to have an-

Franicine Black is now getting help from former assistant police chief of Oxnard Chuck Hookstra. They established an anonymous tip line. That 5045. The number is not associated with law enforcement. It’s easy to speculate about what may have happened, and there

could be any number of scenarios, but without a doubt there are tons of unanswered questions about the disappearance of Chioma Gray.

sites are uniting to bring information to the public about Chioma’s vanishing. Please gather with them, let’s all help bring attention to

Take part in an awareness campaign along with Peas In Their Pods . Please do what you

(Continue Next Page)

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FROM FBI WEBSITE

Date of Birth: April 27, 1992 Place of Birth: Sex: Female Hair: Black Height: 5’4 THE DETAILS: Chioma Gray has not been seen since December 13, 2007. She is believed to have been taken from her high school in Ventura, California, and driven to Mexico by fugitive Andrew Tafoya. The two may be travelling in a stolen, white 20 Acura TSX with California license plate 6AXX928.

Suspect Andrew Tafoya It is believed that Tafoya took Gray across the border into Mexico on December 13, 2007. An arrest warrant was issued for Tafo by the Ventura County Superior Court on December 14, 2007, after he was charged with child stealing, contributing to the delin quency of a minor, and car theft. On December 31, 2007, Tafoya was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and a fed eral arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court in Los Angeles. Individuals with information concerning thi should take no action themselves, but instead immediately contact the nearest FBI Office or local law enforcement agency. For any possible sighting outside the United States, contact the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate. It is believed that Tafoya took Gray across the border into Mexico on December 13, 2007. An arrest warrant was issued for Tafo by the Ventura County Superior Court on December 14, 2007, after he was charged with child stealing, contributing to the delin

quency of a minor, and car theft. On December 31, 2007, Tafoya was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and a federal arrest warrant was issued by thDistrict Court in Los Angeles.

Individuals with information concerning this case should take no action themselves, but instead immediately contact the nearest law enforcement agency. For any possible sighting outside the United States, contact the nearest United States Embassy or Consul

http://delilah1234.wordpress.com/2010/04/29/chioma-gray-has-been-missing

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Date of Birth: April 27, 1992 Place of Birth: Sex: Female Hair: Black Height: 5’4″ Eyes: Brown Weight: 115 pounds Race: Black THE DETAILS: Chioma Gray has not been seen since December 13, 2007. She is believed to have been taken from her high school in Ventura, California, and driven to Mexico by fugitive Andrew Tafoya. The two may be travelling in a stolen, white 2008

It is believed that Tafoya took Gray across the border into Mexico on December 13, 2007. An arrest warrant was issued for Tafoya by the Ventura County Superior Court on December 14, 2007, after he was charged with child stealing, contributing to the delin quency of a minor, and car theft. On December 31, 2007, Tafoya was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and a fed eral arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court in Los Angeles. Individuals with information concerning this case should take no action themselves, but instead immediately contact the nearest FBI Office or local law enforcement agency. For any possible sighting outside the United States, contact the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate.

It is believed that Tafoya took Gray across the border into Mexico on December 13, 2007. An arrest warrant was issued for Tafoya by the Ventura County Superior Court on December 14, 2007, after he was charged with child stealing, contributing to the delin

On December 31, 2007, Tafoya was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and a federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States

Individuals with information concerning this case should take no action themselves, but instead immediately contact the nearest FBI Office or local law enforcement agency. For any possible sighting outside the United States, contact the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate.

missing-for-two-years-where-is-she/

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SOUTHER� HOSPITALITY - Sharon Fox Greetings! This time of year is always so beautiful. Flowers blooming, butterflies fluttering, birds singing, and the atmosphere is just so fresh! Consider this a time to "spring" into a new way of thinking and walking right into the life that God has for you. We all have a purpose in life and it's not always easy to figure out what that purpose is. But you best believe that it always has to do with LOVE. Whatever you do, always do it in love and whole-heartedly! Give God the glory for your gift and use it for that purpose. If you allow Him to direct your paths, you can't go wrong. And always remember: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6… Enjoy your life, share it with others! Love with all that you have inside and know that in doing so, you will please God. And as you all know, the best way that I have to show my love for all of you is by sharing my love for cooking!! I hope you enjoy this month's recipes as much as my family does!!

www.goodcookin4u2.web.com

OLD FASHIONED ONION RINGS 1 large SWEET onion, cut into 1/4 inch slices (Vidalia onions are best) 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 egg 1 cup milk, or as needed 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs seasoned salt to taste 1 quart oil for frying, or as needed Heat the oil in a deep-fryer to 365 degrees F.

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Separate the onion slices into rings, and set aside. In a small bowl, stir to-gether the flour, baking powder and salt. Dip the onion slices into the flour mixture until they are all coated; set aside. Whisk the egg and milk into the flour mixture using a fork. Dip the floured rings into the batter to coat, then place on a wire rack to drain until the batter stops dripping. The wire rack may be placed over a sheet of aluminum foil for easier clean up. Spread the bread crumbs out on a plate or shallow dish. Place rings one at a time into the crumbs, and scoop the crumbs up over the ring to coat. Give it a hard tap as you remove it from the crumbs. The coating should cling very well. Repeat with remaining rings. Deep fry the rings a few at a time for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove to paper towels to drain. Season with seasoning salt, and serve.

WHITE CHOCOLATE-RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs 3 tablespoons white sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 (10 ounce) package frozen raspberries 2 tablespoons white sugar 2 teaspoons cornstarch 1/2 cup water 2 cups white chocolate chips 1/2 cup half-and-half cream 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup white sugar 3 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract In a medium bowl, mix together cookie crumbs, 3 tablespoons sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan. In a saucepan, combine raspberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, cornstarch, and wa-ter. Bring to boil, and continue boiling 5 minutes, or until sauce is thick. Strain sauce through a mesh strainer to remove seeds.

24

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a metal bowl over a pan of simmering wa-ter, melt white chocolate chips with half-and-half, stirring occasionally until smooth. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in vanilla and melted white chocolate. Pour half of batter over crust. Spoon 3 tablespoons raspberry sauce over batter. Pour remaining cheesecake batter into pan, and again spoon 3 tablespoons raspberry sauce over the top. Swirl batter with the tip of a knife to create a marbled effect. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until filling is set. Cool, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 8 hours before removing from pan. Serve with remaining raspberry sauce.

MEXICAN VEGETABLES AND QUESO 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/2 cup chopped red onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 zucchini, thinly sliced 1 yellow squash, thinly sliced 1 chayote squash, thinly sliced 1 cup peeled, chopped jicama 2 tomatoes, chopped 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1 pinch cayenne pepper salt and pepper to taste 1 cup shredded queso asadero (white Mexican cheese) .

25

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion and gar-lic; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add zucchini, yellow squash, and chayote. Cover, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped jicama; cover and cook 3 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cover and let cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Serve immediately

GRILLED BASIL SHRIMP 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 1/2 lemons, juiced 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (such as Grey Pou-pon) 1/2 cup minced fresh basil leaves 3 cloves garlic, minced salt to taste white pepper 3 pounds fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined skewers In a shallow, non-porous dish or bowl, mix together olive oil and melted butter. Stir in lemon juice, mustard, basil, and garlic, and season with salt and white pepper. Add shrimp, and toss to coat. Cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour. Preheat grill to high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, and thread onto skewers. Discard marinade. Lightly oil grill grate, and arrange skewers on preheated grill. Cook for 4 min-utes, turning once, or until opaque.

26

ASHA JAQUILLA DEGREE

Missing Since: February 14, 2000 from Shelby, North Carolina Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: August 5, 1990 Age: 9 years old Height and Weight: 4'6, 60 pounds Distinguishing Characteristics: African-American female. Black hair, brown eyes. Degree may style her hair in pigtails. Clothing/Jewelry De-scription: Possibly a white shirt, white jeans and white tennis shoes. Degree resided with her family in an apartment on Oakcrest Street in Shelby, North Carolina in 2000. She was last seen inside her home at ap-proximately 2:30 a.m. on February 14, 2000. Degree's father went to sleep at that time and told authorities his daughter was in her bed when he checked on her. Degree shared a room with her brother, who stated that he heard noises during the early morning hours and assumed his sis-ter was tossing in her sleep. Degree's mother went into her room at approximately 6:30 a.m. to wake her children for school and discovered Degree was not in her bed. The family immediately summoned authorities and an extensive search of the surrounding area was initialized, with no result. Degree has never been heard from again.

If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Cleveland County Sheriff's Office 704-484-4822

Age Progression

27

Rilya Alert Criteria

• The abduction is of a child age 17 years or younger

• The parent must have contacted law enforce-ment to report child missing.

• A RILYA Alert may also be issued if the child is classified as a runaway by the police. If the parent has reported miss-ing child and has convincing evidence that child does not have a his-tory of running away, an alert will be initiated within the 1st hour. We recognize that at times, not all information is readily available (ie. li-cense plate numbers, name of abductor, or witness to abduction. In such cases, the available information will be reviewed and verified prior to RILYA Alert.

• The law-enforcement agency believes the child is in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death.

• All children of color meeting the criteria for the Amber Alert will also receive the RILYA Alert If these criteria are met, alert information is assembled for public distribution. This information may include de-scriptions and pictures of the missing child, the suspected abductor, and a suspected vehicle along with any other information available and valuable to identifying the child and suspect.

*The staff at Peas In Their Pods respectfully requests that once a child is found that any organization posting information remove

their pictures from their sites.

http://www.peasintheirpods.com

(516) 338-6873/ (515) 554-5096

hfmbc@hotmail.com

28

Cyberbullying 101

CYBERBULLYING: Have you heard of it? If not, you probably will soon, because cyberbullying is becoming increasingly more common among tweens anthe Internet today. While most parents these days worry about the online stranger or predator that may be trying to lure their cmost parents don’t have a clue about this relatively new and dangerous phenomenon our kids are faced with. WHAT IS IT? The basic definition of cyberbullying: Using the Internet, cell phones or other electronic devices for the purpose of harassing, threatening, embar-rassing, or otherwise hurting another person. Cyberbullying can be done through emails, text messaging, postings through blogs aworking sites, or by sending pictures or images online with the intention of hurting another person. WHY IS IT DANGEROUS? For one thing, it preys on children emotionally AND physically. Imagine being a 13 year old girl whose yearbook picture has beenway, perhaps your face superimposed on a different body, and then texted to everyone in school. Maybe with a threatening or humiMaybe even with your home address and phone number. How about a 12 year old boy… who is being bombarded daily with texts and emails calling him names, making fun of his weight or ofeatures, and being taunted with threats of physical violence “you’re gonna get you’re ____ jumped bad after school todaythe real-life examples of cyberbullying that our children are facing today. If you were one of those kids, what might you do? Ruphysically hurt yourself, sink into depression?

Has been successfully teaching Child Predator Safety Awareness since 2001. She is the founder and creator of Safely Ever After, Inc. and provides effective, non

speeches at schools, community organizations, churches, and corporations throughout the United States. She has trained many crime prevention educators and children’s advocacy groups with her specialized pro-

29

Cyberbullying 101

Have you heard of it? If not, you probably will soon, because cyberbullying is becoming increasingly more common among tweens and teens using the Internet today. While most parents these days worry about the online stranger or predator that may be trying to lure their children, the fact is most parents don’t have a clue about this relatively new and dangerous phenomenon our kids are faced with.

or other electronic devices for the purpose of harassing, threatening, embar-rassing, or otherwise hurting another person. Cyberbullying can be done through emails, text messaging, postings through blogs and social net-working sites, or by sending pictures or images online with the intention of hurting another person.

For one thing, it preys on children emotionally AND physically. Imagine being a 13 year old girl whose yearbook picture has been altered in some way, perhaps your face superimposed on a different body, and then texted to everyone in school. Maybe with a threatening or humiliating caption.

How about a 12 year old boy… who is being bombarded daily with texts and emails calling him names, making fun of his weight or other physical you’re gonna get you’re ____ jumped bad after school today.” These are just two of

life examples of cyberbullying that our children are facing today. If you were one of those kids, what might you do? Run away, retaliate,

Pattie Fitzgerald

Has been successfully teaching Child Predator Safety Awareness since 2001. She is the founder and creator of Safely Ever After, Inc. and provides effective, non-fearful safety workshops, seminars, and keynote

speeches at schools, community organizations, churches, and corporations throughout the United States. She has trained many crime prevention educators and children’s advocacy groups with her specialized pro-

grams, curriculum, and educational materials.

30

STATISTICS A recent survey of 1500 students, grades 4 through 8, conducted by I-Safe America (www.i — 42% of those interviewed were victims of some form of cyberbullying — 35% had been threatened — 58% of those victims did not tell an adult or parent — Girls were more likely to be targets of cyberbullying than boys WHY DO KIDS DO THIS? There are lots of reasons. Sometimes they’re motivated by anger, frustration or revenge. Sometimes it’s a form of en-tertainment because they’re bored, or they want a “laugh.” Some kids are looking for a sense of power or stature among their peedo so by accident, by not realizing that passing along hurtful messages is in fact cyberbullying. Whatever the reason may be, cyful, damaging, and can have serious consequences to everyone involved. IS IT ILLEGAL? In some instances, yes. Certain threats of physical harm, language, or images are definitely illegal and law enforcement can andwill take action, even if the perpetrator is a minor. The sad truth is that this is happening in schools across America. Surpriswould never engage in bullying behavior against another person in the “real world” are taking part in cyberbullying either by inalong texts and emails as part of the “game.” Parents and educators are just now beginning to recognize the seriousness of the ping out to understand how this happens and more importantly, how to stop it. The sad truth is that this is happening in schoolsSurprisingly, even kids who would never engage in bullying behavior against another person in the “real world” are taking part ither by instigating or passing along texts and emails as part of the “game.” Parents and educators are just now beginning to recness of the problem, and reaching out to understand how this happens and more importantly, how to stop it. Tell an adult. You cathe problem. WHAT CAN KIDS DO? 1. Don’t reply or respond to the cyberbully’s message. 2. Don't be an accomplice. Don’t forward any bullying messages to others.3. Save/print up the evidence. 4. Tell an adult. You can get help to solve the problem.

For additional information on Cyberbullying 101 please visit:www.wiredsafety.org

*Pattie Fitzgerald has been successfully teaching child predator safety and awareness since 2001 with her child

keynote speeches and parent education seminars.

31

Safe America (www.i-safe.org) found that:

There are lots of reasons. Sometimes they’re motivated by anger, frustration or revenge. Sometimes it’s a form of en-tertainment because they’re bored, or they want a “laugh.” Some kids are looking for a sense of power or stature among their peers. Some kids may do so by accident, by not realizing that passing along hurtful messages is in fact cyberbullying. Whatever the reason may be, cyberbullying is hurt-

In some instances, yes. Certain threats of physical harm, language, or images are definitely illegal and law enforcement can and will take action, even if the perpetrator is a minor. The sad truth is that this is happening in schools across America. Surprisingly, even kids who would never engage in bullying behavior against another person in the “real world” are taking part in cyberbullying either by instigating or passing along texts and emails as part of the “game.” Parents and educators are just now beginning to recognize the seriousness of the problem, and reach-ing out to understand how this happens and more importantly, how to stop it. The sad truth is that this is happening in schools across America. Surprisingly, even kids who would never engage in bullying behavior against another person in the “real world” are taking part in cyberbullying ei-ther by instigating or passing along texts and emails as part of the “game.” Parents and educators are just now beginning to recognize the serious-ness of the problem, and reaching out to understand how this happens and more importantly, how to stop it. Tell an adult. You can get help to solve

Don't be an accomplice. Don’t forward any bullying messages to others.

www.wiredsafety.org This information is so valuable it must be shared by all.

*Pattie Fitzgerald has been successfully teaching child predator safety and awareness since 2001 with her child-friendly school curriculum,

32

Cornmeal Pound Cake 1 Cup butter 4 eggs White cornmeal ¾ Cups all-purpose flour ¾ Cup cake flour ¼ Cup white cornmeal ¼ cup cornstarch 2 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 Cup sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla ¾ cup amaretto liqueur 1 recipe Orange Cream Allow butter and eggs to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat oven 350. Grease an 8 inch fluted tube pan. Lightly coat pan with white cornmeal. In a large bowl beat butter with a mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Gradually add sugar, beating on medium speed about five minutes or until light and fluffy. Add vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time. Stir in flour mixture just until combined. Pour batter into pre-pared pan, spreading batter evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until tooth pick inserted in center and comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan; cool completely on rack. Brush cake with liqueur, serve with Orange Cream. ORANGE CREAM: Beat two cups of whipping cream; add 2 tea-spoon vanilla flavoring and 4 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Fold in the zest from one orange.

Monthly Tasty Treat - by Pat Holmes

33

Case Type: Endangered Missing DOB: Sep 8, 1984 Sex: Female

Missing Date: May 12, 2001 Race: Black Age Now: 24 Height: 5'7" (170 cm)

Missing City: LA GRANGE Weight: 165 lbs (75 kg) Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Brown

Missing State : NC Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC911721

Circumstances: Timeka's photo is shown age-progressed to 19 years.

When Timeka was last seen she had braces on her teeth and light brown highlights in her hair. Her ears are double pierced.

She may go by the nickname Meka.

TIMEKA DONYALE PRIDGEN Age Progression (Right)

34

The mission of The Barack Obama Green Charter High School is to prepare students to become informed, engaged and independent critical thinkers and to inspire leaders for sustainable development with a focus on our envi-ronment. Students will be educated in a school community that fosters high expectations for both achievement and conduct and facilitates clear connec-tions between the curriculum, the community and the world.

The founders of The Barack Obama Green Charter High School believe in the potential of Plainfield’s youth to achieve at much higtrict performance data suggests. As such, we seek to change the performance trajectory for Plainfield students with the establisObama Green Charter High School by engaging children in challenging and meaningful work, with the expectation that they will do cally and socially. Students will be supported by a committed and competent community of teachers and administrators who identifachievement as their professional priority. The education program will draw upon research proven interventions and promising praperforming schools serving a student population comparable to the student population in Plainfield. The Barack Obama Green Charter High School will feature: Small Learning Communities enable personalization and promote greater interaction between teachers and students. Problem Based Learning is a “hands on” teaching method that creates studentskills, and values student autonomy, choice, unsupervised work time, and responsibility. Service Learning connects the curriculum to the real world and fosters participation in community revitalization. Educational Focus on Sustainable Development Sustainable development is a pattern of resource use that aims to meet human needs such as energy, water and food, while preservment so that these needs can be met not only in the present, but in the indefinite future. Educational Philosophy The priorities that define the student experience at the Barack Obama Green Charter High School of Plainfield are preparing infoindependent critical thinkers and inspiring both leaders for environmental sustainability and graduates prepared to compete in tStudents will be educated in a school community that communicates high expectations for both achievement and conduct and facilittions between the curriculum, the community and world. http://www.njfirstgreen.org/index.html email us at: info@njfirstgreen.org

35

The mission of The Barack Obama Green Charter High School is to prepare students to become informed, engaged and independent critical thinkers and to inspire leaders for sustainable development with a focus on our envi-ronment. Students will be educated in a school community that fosters high expectations for both achievement and conduct and facilitates clear connec-tions between the curriculum, the community and the world.

The founders of The Barack Obama Green Charter High School believe in the potential of Plainfield’s youth to achieve at much higher levels than dis-trict performance data suggests. As such, we seek to change the performance trajectory for Plainfield students with the establishment of The Barack Obama Green Charter High School by engaging children in challenging and meaningful work, with the expectation that they will do well both academi-cally and socially. Students will be supported by a committed and competent community of teachers and administrators who identify high student achievement as their professional priority. The education program will draw upon research proven interventions and promising practices of high-performing schools serving a student population comparable to the student population in Plainfield.

Small Learning Communities enable personalization and promote greater interaction between teachers and students.

Problem Based Learning is a “hands on” teaching method that creates student-driven projects and activities which focus on increasing critical thinking skills, and values student autonomy, choice, unsupervised work time, and responsibility.

Service Learning connects the curriculum to the real world and fosters participation in community revitalization.

Sustainable development is a pattern of resource use that aims to meet human needs such as energy, water and food, while preserving the environ-ment so that these needs can be met not only in the present, but in the indefinite future.

The priorities that define the student experience at the Barack Obama Green Charter High School of Plainfield are preparing informed, engaged and independent critical thinkers and inspiring both leaders for environmental sustainability and graduates prepared to compete in the green economy. Students will be educated in a school community that communicates high expectations for both achievement and conduct and facilitates clear connec-

(Accountability From The Founders Next Page)

36

As a founder of the school but also as a ‘new comer’ to the world of sustainability, the term has become somewhat of a lifestylea clear picture of what sustainability is. You have to live it and you have to put it into practice. Sustainability goes beyond name to your lifestyle, your relationships, your economic situations as well as your environment. It is all about preservation a Going through the process of opening this school, I often wonder how I got so far in life without ever thinking to investigate tseem to separate it from anything I do. Originally being inspired by Van Jones in ‘Greening the Ghetto’ and then the President, green and learning about sustainability is not just for science centered people, or people in wealthy areas, it is for everyone,want my students to understand this. I want them to look within themselves and make sure that their actions are conducive to livsure their thinking is in line with a sustainable earth, and that their career choices are appropriate fields that move towards skills they need to be successful in a low carbon economy, because we are missing that piece in many urban areas. As a 26 year othen being appointed as the Schools Leader, is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I am honored to break boundaries down to doworld.

As an educator in the district of Plainfield I am well aware of the educational model in place in the Plainfield Public Schools.

field School system as an educational partner to improve that model. I wanted to create a school where students take pride in th

compete in the most up to date fashion. A “green” charter high school that prepares students for a green economy does not curren

institutions in New Jersey and around the nation are creating programs with a green focus in order to prepare students to unders

tainability. We were moved to bring this form of education to Plainfield.

Using service learning as an overarching pedagogy, students will study local, national and global environmental issues as a vehi

ciency in the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards. The Barack Obama Green Charter High School will work collaboratively

vide the supports necessary for our students to become the leadership cadre for environmental sustainability across a variety of

Miss Safiyah Sadiq, M.Ed Founder School Principal

The Barack Obama Green Charter High School

(908) 834 5378 http://www.njfirstgreen.org/index.html info@njfirstgreen.org

The Barack Obama Green Charter High School Founders

Mr. Anthony Bundy, Ed.D Throughout my career I have strived to inspire, encourage and support students in achieving academic success. Many students in %

results. Having served as a Principal in the public school system in %ew Jersey I am keenly aware of how difficult it can be to

tive change. I am interested in applying solutions to many of the challenges that prevent these students from academic success.

will allow teachers to not only establish mentoring relationships but to also increase the capacity for meaningful dialogue.

Mr. Ka Siame Massiyah, M.Ed As an educator, I enjoy the challenge of meeting students on their educational journey, engaging them and providing support, too

Barack Obama Green Charter High School presents an opportunity to provide a creative educational model that can respond to the e

system. These students face the added challenge of a changing economic focus, one that moves the Global %orth and the Global Sou

lar to the industrial revolution those students not equipped with the appropriate skills will face diminished educational econom

reachable for all of our students.

37

A MESSAGE FROM THE CO FOUNDER AND SCHOOL LEADER What does ‘sustainability’ mean to you?

As a founder of the school but also as a ‘new comer’ to the world of sustainability, the term has become somewhat of a lifestyle. Research and investigation cannot give you a clear picture of what sustainability is. You have to live it and you have to put it into practice. Sustainability goes beyond the environmental aspects, you can apply the name to your lifestyle, your relationships, your economic situations as well as your environment. It is all about preservation and sustainment.

Going through the process of opening this school, I often wonder how I got so far in life without ever thinking to investigate the expression. In these later days I cannot seem to separate it from anything I do. Originally being inspired by Van Jones in ‘Greening the Ghetto’ and then the President, Barack Obama, I was reminded that being green and learning about sustainability is not just for science centered people, or people in wealthy areas, it is for everyone, and tremendously important for our world. I want my students to understand this. I want them to look within themselves and make sure that their actions are conducive to living a sustainable life. I want them to make sure their thinking is in line with a sustainable earth, and that their career choices are appropriate fields that move towards a sustainable economy. I want them to gain the skills they need to be successful in a low carbon economy, because we are missing that piece in many urban areas. As a 26 year old minority female, founding a school, and then being appointed as the Schools Leader, is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I am honored to break boundaries down to do what is right for our students and for our

As an educator in the district of Plainfield I am well aware of the educational model in place in the Plainfield Public Schools. As a founder I plan on working with the Plain-

field School system as an educational partner to improve that model. I wanted to create a school where students take pride in their education, and are fully prepared to

compete in the most up to date fashion. A “green” charter high school that prepares students for a green economy does not currently exist. More and more educational

institutions in New Jersey and around the nation are creating programs with a green focus in order to prepare students to understand and become active leaders in sus-

Using service learning as an overarching pedagogy, students will study local, national and global environmental issues as a vehicle to meet and exceed student profi-

ciency in the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards. The Barack Obama Green Charter High School will work collaboratively with all stakeholders to help pro-

vide the supports necessary for our students to become the leadership cadre for environmental sustainability across a variety of disciplines.

Throughout my career I have strived to inspire, encourage and support students in achieving academic success. Many students in %ew Jersey are struggling under pedagogies that are not yielding substantial

results. Having served as a Principal in the public school system in %ew Jersey I am keenly aware of how difficult it can be to have public schools respond quickly and decisively as a means to implement effec-

tive change. I am interested in applying solutions to many of the challenges that prevent these students from academic success. By The Barack Obama Green Charter High School creating smaller classrooms

will allow teachers to not only establish mentoring relationships but to also increase the capacity for meaningful dialogue.

As an educator, I enjoy the challenge of meeting students on their educational journey, engaging them and providing support, tools and techniques necessary in helping them achieve increased success. The

Barack Obama Green Charter High School presents an opportunity to provide a creative educational model that can respond to the educational challenges faced by many students in the Plainfield educational

system. These students face the added challenge of a changing economic focus, one that moves the Global %orth and the Global South on the same trajectory using a low carbon green economic model. Simi-

lar to the industrial revolution those students not equipped with the appropriate skills will face diminished educational economic opportunities. We plan on ensuring that these opportunities are available and

(Additional Founders Continued On Next Page)

38

Mr. Steven King, M.A Inspired by Barack Obama and his leadership I was moved to give back to my com-munity and contribute to the development of young people. I wanted to start a High School dedicated to harnessing the creative forces that America has been known for, to educate and inspire the youth to dedicate themselves to a sustained change in themselves, their homes, the communities, the state, the nation and the world. To help them to develop a more sustainable life and lifestyle, through “green” science, technology and community based projects that incorporate sustainable development,

climate change, energy efficiency, clean tech and alternative energy. All of these will prepare students for Green Jobs and a Green Economy. Our global village is moving full steam in creating Green Jobs, and a “Green Economy”. I want to help people start to prepare themselves to be part of this new economy; aware-ness and education are the first steps. Throughout my career I have strived to inspire, encourage and support students in achieving

academic success. Many students in New Jersey are struggling under pedagogies that are not

yielding substantial results. Having served as a Principal in the public school system in New

Jersey I am keenly aware of how difficult it can be to have public schools respond quickly and

decisively as a means to implement effective change. I am interested in applying solutions to

many of the challenges that prevent these students from academic success. By The Barack

Obama Green Charter High School creating smaller classrooms will allow teachers to not only

establish mentoring relationships but to also increase the capacity for meaningful dialogue.

Mrs. Alisa Barnes As a resident, teacher and mother of a child in the Plainfield School District I am in-volved in creating The Barack Obama Green Charter High School in Plainfield so that parents, students, and the community of Plainfield can have more affordable options in sending their children to school. Plainfield students attending grades K-8 have several good schools to choose from yet high school students have only one high school in their district. Many parents who lived in Plainfield all of their lives and attended these schools, have seen the decline of education in our city. Parents, Guardians, Grandpar-ents and family members live the reality of an unfulfilled educational promise for their

children in Plainfield. I work with my fellow founders to create free high quality educational options in the city of Plainfield.

As an educator, I enjoy the challenge of meeting students on their educational journey, engag-

ing them and providing support, tools and techniques necessary in helping them achieve in-

creased success. The Barack Obama Green Charter High School presents an opportunity to

provide a creative educational model that can respond to the educational challenges faced by

many students in the Plainfield educational system. These students face the added challenge of

a changing economic focus, one that moves the Global North and the Global South on the

same trajectory using a low carbon green economic model. Similar to the industrial revolution

those students not equipped with the appropriate skills will face diminished educational eco-

nomic opportunities. We plan on ensuring that these opportunities are available and reachable

for all of our students.

The Barack Obama Green Charter High School Founders

39

THEDA TERESA LUISE GONZALEZ-SMITH

Case Type: Family Abduction

DOB: Aug 23, 2007

Sex: Female

Missing Date: May 26, 2009

Race: Biracial

Age Now: 2

Height: 3'1" (94 cm) Weight: 45 lbs (20 kg)

Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Brown

Missing City: WEST COVINA

Missing State : CA

Missing Country: United States

Case Number: NCMC1140966

Circumstances:

She may be in the company of her mother. They are believed to be

in Germany. Theda is biracial. She is Hispanic and White.

Investigating Agency:

Los Angeles’s District Attorney’s Office

(213) 633-7424

National Center For Missing & Exploited Children

1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST)

40

D3 COMMU�ITY OUTREACH, I�C

- MISSION: "To Foster A Healthier Community By Developing A Healthier Child" - VISION: D3 envisions a healthier community by offering opportunities for youth to come together to be educated, empowered and experience success. D3 programs encompass educational, leadership and recreational activities that are available to all youth in Durham and surrounding counties. D3 aims to bridge the gap between generations by

offering safe and enjoyable events throughout the year. D3 will connect with the community as we provide safe environments for family entertainment and serve as disadvantaged youth. We aim to promote a positive transition from adolescence to adulthood. D3 will educate the community, expand the community, and promote growth in the community by utilizing the heart of the commu-nity—the people of Durham. We will make a positive change within Durham through our outreach targeted toward at Incorporated on September 29, 2006, D3 Community Outreach is well on its way as a growing nonprofit organization in Durham County, North Carolina. - CONTACT INFORMATION: -Website: www.d3communityoutreach.org -Facebook page: D3 Community Outreach, Inc -Blog: d3communityoutreach.blogspot.com -Twitter: D3Comm_Outreach -Email: info@d3communityoutreach.org -Phone: 919 824-5959 -Address: P.O. Box 11837, Durham, NC 27703

41

D3 COMMU�ITY OUTREACH, I�C

"To Foster A Healthier Community By Developing A Healthier Child"

D3 envisions a healthier community by offering opportunities for youth to come together to be educated, empowered and experience success. D3 programs encompass educational, leadership and recreational activities that are available to all youth in Durham and surrounding counties. D3 aims to bridge the gap between generations by

offering safe and enjoyable events throughout the year.

D3 will connect with the community as we provide safe environments for family entertainment and serve as positive role models for disadvantaged youth. We aim to promote a positive transition from adolescence to adulthood.

D3 will educate the community, expand the community, and promote growth in the community by utilizing the heart of the commu-the people of Durham. We will make a positive change within Durham through our outreach targeted toward at-risk youth.

Incorporated on September 29, 2006, D3 Community Outreach is well on its way as a growing nonprofit organization in Durham

Malcom Reed Founder

42

Report Type: Parental/Family Abduction

Sex: Male Race: Hispanic Hair: Black Eye Color: Brown

Height: 4 ft. 06 in. Weight: 80 lbs. Date of Birth: 7/21/2004

Last Seen: 8/23/2009 Dental X-rays Available: No

Anthony is being concealed by his mother, Dinora Pereira (DOB: 5/25/1981) and they were last seen on

August 23, 2009, in Dixon.

CONTACT Agency: Solano County District Attorneys Office

Phone Number: (707) 678-7080 Case Number: 091001541

ANTHONY ANGEL RIVERA

43

MATTHEW QUENTIN ROGERS-HARRIS

Report Type: Runaway Juvenile Sex: Male Race: Black Hair: Black Eye Color: Brown

Height: 5 ft. 10 in. Weight: 140 lbs. Date of Birth: 10/27/1993

Clothing: White shirt, blue jeans Last Seen: 8/29/2008

Scars/Marks/Tattoos: DJ tattoo on upper right arm Dental X-rays Available: No

Age in photo 14 Matthew was last seen on August 29, 2008, in Sacramento.

CONTACT

Agency: Sacramento County Sheriffs Department Phone Number: (916) 874-5115

Case Number: 0853639

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"A Mother's Love"

Each of us has our own definition of what a mother is...for me it is someone who loves, nurtures, teaches, encourages, and is always there for you whether you need them to be or not. For some, this may be their natural or birth mother,grandmother (if that is who raised you), or someone who has adopted you and done the job of a mother. Mother's are the backbone of child...this doesn't exclude the father's by any means, but it is the mother that many children looAs I look at my children, I thank God that He has brought me this far and madeeasy to raise children, and that is something that I think we all took for granted while we were growing up. Every one of my chiknow I love them and the lengths that I would go for them. That is what a "Train up a child in the way it should go, and when it is old it will not depart from it", us and that is what I teach my children. Mother's take a bow, because you made us what we arenurture, encourage, teach, and be there for our children. A mother's love is one of God's greatest gifts. So on Mother's Day and everyday cherish the one that God put in your life as your mother...and if your mother is not with you, sprayer to thank God for the time that you had with her, because no matter what she still is here with you in your heart, encourayou to strive to be the best. To all mother's...from the birth mother's to those who are Happy Mother's Day, Paula Whitebear-Burton Warrior's for Christ (W.F.C) Founder, Coordinator, and Organization Manager

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Each of us has our own definition of what a mother is...for me it is someone who loves, nurtures, teaches, encourages, and is always there for you whether you need them to be or not. For some, this may be their natural or birth mother, a grandmother (if that is who raised you), or someone who has adopted you and done the job of a mother.

Mother's are the backbone of child...this doesn't exclude the father's by any means, but it is the mother that many children look to. As I look at my children, I thank God that He has brought me this far and made me the woman and mother that I am today. It's not easy to raise children, and that is something that I think we all took for granted while we were growing up. Every one of my children

go for them. That is what a mother does when it comes to her children.

it should go, and when it is old it will not depart from it", that is what my grandmother taught us and that is what I teach my children. Mother's take a bow, because you made us what we are today so that we are able to love,

encourage, teach, and be there for our children. A mother's love is one of God's greatest gifts.

So on Mother's Day and everyday cherish the one that God put in your life as your mother...and if your mother is not with you, say a prayer to thank God for the time that you had with her, because no matter what she still is here with you in your heart, encouraging

birth mother's to those who are by God, Much Love and God Bless!

Warrior's for Christ (W.F.C) Founder, Coordinator, and Organization Manager

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Peas In Their Pods

Thank You..!