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January 20, 2009
Soundbites

Shifting U.S. image on human rights
Can Barack Obama restore the reputation of the United States around the world? This question was tackled during a recent “Conversations at The Carter Center” panel discussion.

“I think the key to success going forward will be what we do as a people,” said Larry Cox, executive director of Amnesty International USA. “Without tremendous support by the American people, there is a danger that President Obama, whatever his intentions, won’t be able to do everything that needs to be done. The mountain of despair that was created over the last eight years is enormous and it will not be very quickly torn down and destroyed.” —Carol Clark

Coke CEO not down on economy
“Vision without execution is daydreaming,” says Coca-Cola Company President and CEO Muhtar Kent.
Kent told the audience at Goizueta’s Dean’s Leadership Speaker Series that the “Five Ps” — portfolio, partners, profit, people and the planet — will position the company for sustainable growth into the future.

Kent’s advice to students on finding a job in a down economy: Consider working for a small business. Not only would they be more involved in all aspects of the business, they’d learn to respect cash. “In big business, you never touch cash,” Kent notes. He said business leaders’ lack of connection to the balance sheet is one of today’s business world ills.

An optimistic Kent also believes the country will come out of the current financial crisis “quicker than people think” as long as “Brand America” continues to improve and remains strong. —Allison Shirreffs

Nutrition truths to chew over
Cheryl Williams, clinical dietician for Emory Healthcare, busted some myths about eating for good health and weight control at a “Nutrition Myths” session Dec. 17.

Did you know that skipping meals or fasting is not a good way to lose weight? That eating after 8 p.m. does not cause weight gain? That fresh produce is not always healthier than frozen or canned?

Williams discussed common misconceptions and misinformation about food, dieting and meals, advising in particular not to cut out any foods but instead cut down on the portions. She also provided sources for reliable nutrition information.

Her top tip: The best way to lose weight — and enable good health — is to cut back on calories and be more physically active. —Leslie King