There was complete silence before Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen of Georgia was announced. Who would it be? There were 4 young ladies, all talented and all deserving still standing. Then Kierra Shivers, a North Cobb High School student, was announced as HJTTI of Georgia. “I was shocked and overwhelmed”, stated her mother Doretha Motton. As for Kierra, it is still sinking in. This is the second year that a teen from Cobb County has represented Georgia. Over 3 months, she along with 10 other teens and pre-teens, trained for this moment. She knew that she was standing in the presence of others that were just as talented and just as deserving. But according to the judges, she was the one who stood the tallest. She will now join over 30 other talented teens July 12-20, 2008 from all over the globe in Tortola, British Virgin Islands to compete for scholarships and multiple trips abroad. Her week will include many cultural events and meetings with performance stars and dignitaries as well as competition. Arlisa Bradshaw and Vickee Clark, the directors, plans have not changed. They will bring the international title and scholarship money back to Georgia. Visit www.talentedteenofga.com to learn more about HJTTI and how you may sponsor or support your Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International of Georgia 2008, Kierra Shivers.

EGTYI is a non-profit organization whose goal is to promote culture and education through the performing arts. They are the state sponsor of Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International and EGTYI Miss Talented Pre-Teen Scholarship Programs. They have awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships and endeavors to form positive relationships with each child they serve. Visit www.talentedteenofga.com or contact us at info@talentedteenoga.com for more information.

Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International began in 1971 as a way for young ladies to display their talent to the world. It grew into an international competition that allowed young ladies to not only display their talent, but win academic scholarships, trips abroad and the opportunity to experience many cultural events. Mr. Harold “Hal” Jackson continues to serve as the executive producer along with his wife, Debi Jackson. Among many first, Mr. Jackson is known as the first African American to be inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame and the creator of the idea of the King Holiday. His legacy of giving continues through HJTTI. www.talentedteens.org.