World News
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![]() Atlanta's Weekly E-Magazine
Apr 13th - Apr 20th, 2001
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We applaud the efforts of President Bush, Secretary of State Powell, Ambassador Prueher and all the members of the diplomatic corps who negociated the release of the 24 Americans, the crew of the downed surveillance plane. They are in Hawaii today undergoing debriefing and they will soon be flown home to celebrate Easter with their loved ones. This is going to be one joyous Easter for 24 American families, as well as for all of us across the country. It seems that a carefully and cleverly drafted letter handed by Ambassador Joseph W. Prueher to the Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Tang was the masterpiece which allowed the Chinese officials to authorize the release of the crew. Below is an excerpt from that letter : "Both President Bush and Secretary of State Powell have expressed their sincere regret over your missing pilot and aircraft. Please convey to the Chinese people and to the family of pilot Wang Wei that we are very sorry for their loss. Although the full picture of what transpired is still unclear, according to our information, our severely crippled aircraft made an emergency landing after following international emergency procedures. We are very sorry the entering of China's airspace and the landing did not have verbal clearance, but very pleased the crew landed safely. We appreciate China's efforts to see to the well-being of our crew". The letter continues in confirming a meeting to be held by both sides on April 18, 2001 to discuss the incident. May the Easter bunny smile on all of us this joyous Sunday. . |
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A good example is the period of Olympics. Large crowds were congregating downtown and crime was almost nil during that period. What makes this reduction in crime more significant is that it was achieved with a 20% reduction in police force. Major Woodard had thirty more police officers a few years ago than he has now in his zone. He attributed this improvement to community alertness, one neighbor looking after another. He cited one case on Penn Street where one resident heard the noise of broken glass. When she looked out of her window she spotted a stranger in her neighbor's backyard. She called 911 and gave a full description of the stranger. Within minutes the perpetrator was arrested by the police a few blocks away. Major Woodard paid tribute to his officers for their dedication and the satisfaction they derive from a job well done. Among the officers Lt. Walker and Sgt. Bell were present at the meeting. At the conclusion, Jannie Gerds informed the members of the success and the fun they have had in home showing over the weekend. She stated that financially it was a rewarding experience for the Association and that the results will be disclosed during the next meeting to be held on April 26, 2001 at the Park Tavern on 10th Street & Monroe Drive. The undersigned takes this opportunity to remind our readers that he is a candidate for the Board of Directors. I will appreciate your favoring me with your vote. . James C. Stathis Associate Editor |