Dear Sir…

I am appalled that you have attacked the Wellness Steps Program of Bradley County and Mr. Maurice Saliba. I am in this second session of this program and I have been watching amazing things happen to the members who are persevering and going the distance. I have lost 20 pounds since April 1, and my husband has lost 32. Mr. Saliba has been a great encouragement to us and I know in my heart of hearts that without this program, I would not have the willpower to do this.

Are you jealous that you did not think of anyone but yourself when you tried to lose weight??? We are accountable to each other and it does make quite a difference. We are making new friends and establishing what I hope to be a lifetime pattern of weight management, not just dieting for a short term. Did you even interview Mr. Saliba before attacking his intentions for this program??? Mr. Saliba has given of himself and his own personal time for this program because he has a heart for God and for the community! I can say that with absolute conviction. Can you say the same about your own intentions???

By the way… only 54 certificates were awarded, however, the weight loss amount was for the total from the beginning of the first session. Not everyone who started the program, finished the program, however I am sure that their weight loss was also recorded as part of the first session. If you call Mr. Saliba, I am sure that he would be more than willing to let you know the exact amount lost from the 54 people that were awarded certificates.

As for this program going to the highest bidder… Can you truthfully print (journalistic integrity) that you know that Mr. Saliba is profiting from this endeavor that was his brainchild??? By the way… the only cost for this program that we have is the cost of the workout bands that we did not even purchase from Spectrum. And let me just tell you (from my personal point of view) that if he was or is going to profit, it will be in how he answers to God for his intentions. Maybe you should consider trying out for the third session before you pass judgment?

Sincerely,

Brenda Lee Branam


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