Book about billionaire entrepreneur to be distributed at board meeting

TRENTON -- The Metropolitan Trenton African-American Chamber of Commerce Empowerment Fund will present more than 100 copies of "The Peebles Principles," by billionaire author and real estate developer R. Donahue Peebles, tomorrow at the Trenton board of education meeting.

The book donations are in conjunction with a citywide essay contest for grades 3 to 12, which will be launched next month.
"It's critical we find a way to inspire our youth to read and embrace the knowledge acquired therein," said John E. Harmon, chamber president and CEO. "The essay contest is an initiative to promote academic excellence throughout the Trenton public school system."
Students in grades 3 to 5 will be asked to write a 200-word essay. Those in grades 6 through 8 will write 300 words, while students in grades 9 to 12 will write 500 words.
Cash prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place in January.

"The Peebles Principles" chronicles the life and business success of Don Peebles, a 47-year-old African-American who has amassed more than $4 billion in real estate.
Peebles was keynote speaker at the chamber's 10th annual dinner dance gala in September. His firm is constructing a $1.6 billion hotel/condominium in Las Vegas.
The Trenton board of education meets at 7 p.m. at 108 N. Clinton Ave.