July 2011

Girlfriends Talk Real people, Real Issues, Real Talk

Happy Independence Day!

$ 3.00

Letter To Family and Friends Of Girlfriends Talk From Founder and Editor- In Chief Janice L. Carter

Sometimes I believe I was meant to be a track star because It seems as if I have been jumping hurdles all of my life. The past couple of months for me have had me questioning my every thing. The first thing to come to my mind is to give up and isolate myself again.

Go right back to where I started from. That wasn’t a good place at all for me. I know all this may seem personal but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t express my real true feelings. After all, this is the making of Girlfriends Talk. Real people, Real Issues and Real Talk! Truth be told I am a little stronger today then I was back then. With that said, “Hello July “! my 19th issue. I say that proudly, the first dream I ‘ve ever had the courage to follow and stick with no matter what and as always a special thank you to the people who have supported me, encouraged me and even to the people who let me down, gave up on me and turned their head to my movement of building unity and communication amongst not only women but men also.

I hope you all enjoyed June’s Father’s Day issue, it had some really great articles. Please feel free to leave a comment or any type of feedback. Thank you!

S S Winner –vs.- Loser The winner is always a part of the answer.

The loser is always a part of the problem.

The winner always has a program.

The loser always has an excuse.

The winner says, let me do it for you.

The loser says, “That’s not my job”!

The winner sees an answer for every problem.

The loser sees a problem for every answer.

The winner says it may be difficult but it’s possible.

The loser says it may be possible but it’s too difficult.

In life there will always be winners and losers, but that’s only because the loser Doesn’t want to let the winner out.

We can all be winners.

(I can do all things through Christ, which strengthens me.”)

Philippians 4:13, Be A Winner!

-An Anonymous Friend

Girlfriends Talk

Girlfriends Talk Real people, Real Talk, Real Issues

!"#$%&"'($")%!"#$%*++,"+)%!"#$%-#$.%

Kim Joyce

!

!"#$$%&'!(#)*+&! ,%&$!+-.!/0).!*+1#!1#&!.0%&2!)3+-.!

1)44%)'#5!

(.4#**!6/)4#&#**!7+&.0! !8+/!$+!9+-!*0)2#!%.!+::;! !

!!!?#*.!@&!A#)B#!

/#01#23"$4/#0"%5'667%8#$"% 6-'-*.!CDE!CDFDG!7)4B0!CHEI>CC!

My Friends Or My Man‌ Should you have to choose? !

"#$%&

!

Subscribe Today To Get Your Copy of Girlfriends Talk!

April !!!!!!!!!!! <=5>>!

July 2011

Contributors

Independence Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;z By: Frank Comer A Helping Hand, Please!

By: Janice Carter Independence By: Blk Abyss J Nance Event

Janice Carter Columbus, Ohio Blk Abyss Chicago, Illinois Frank Comer Columbus, Ohio

Have a great holiday and a safe summer!

2 1

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Happening In The C.O?

Ohio State Fair

July 7- August 7, 2011

Chris Botti -Columbus Symphony on Saturday, July 9, at Chemical Abstracts Service (2540 Olentangy River Rd.). Gates open at 6pm. Concert begins at 8:15pm.

R.Kelly and Keisha & Marsha Ambrosius

Friday 7/8/2011 8:00 PM

Schottenstein Center Columbus, OH

Sade with very special guest John Legend Schottenstein Center Columbus, OH

Sun, Jul 10, 2011 07:30 PM

Declare Independence, by taking better care of yourself. Here's the schedule of summer classes to help assist you with that!

Outdoor boot camp will start this July 6th to August 3rd. These sessions will be held at Capital University Tennis Courts on Monday and Wednesday from 6:30p.m to 7:30 p.m.

Saturday morning Bonus Class included Tba* Cost $135 Drop in rate $20 *class minimum of 8.

Deadline Registration date: Wednesday July 6th 6:30p.m. 1st day of class!

The Friday 6 a.m. TRX Boot Camp is back!

TRX Boot Camp: Friday 6 a.m. to 6:50a.m.

This Ropes and Straps class is a unique blend of TRX and jump rope intervals that build total-body strength and cardiovascular conditioning. It will make you stronger leaner, and more agile. This class is for 50 minutes including boot camp exercises, high intensity workout and a cool down stretching routine on the TRX. $80 for 4 weeks. ( July 8th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; July 28th ). Class is limited to 8 people. Call today to register 614.207.7170! *July 28th is a Thursday, I will be traveling on the 29th.

Deadline Registration date: Thursday, July 7th 6:30p.m. * Also this week July 7th join me for a free boot camp, heathy happy hour from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Arena Athletic club.

Independence Day'z By: Frank Comer

Independence is a well-travelled path in America.

Independence is synonymous with emancipation. July 4th represents Independence Day, which it is so patriotically and affectionately called.

This day of celebratory events was obtained through conflict and America became completely independent and self-governing from Great Britain.

America detached itself from a Parasitic nation who habitually took advantage of an aspiring country to be, and repeatedly refused to accept, or acknowledge the sovereignty of this country. But for Blacks, independence came belatedly. We were restrained and purposely omitted from this historical day. Our day of independence came in the form of Emancipation, 87 years after the start of the American Revolution with the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. It was not until June 19th, 1865, 89 years total from the start of the American Revolution, that the concept of independence in this country covered everyone. This date, June 19th, 1865 (Juneteenth), became unequivocally a symbol of time that symbolized our total physical independence in this country.

The Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863 was significant day in American history, but more so in African American history, because it allowed millions of Black to experience freedom without restraint. Black people were denied the basic human rights of independence during this era. The 13th Amendment and the abolishment of slavery Guaranteed Emancipation even though it was time delayed. Nevertheless, this was the greatest act of independence that this country could grant a mass of people being held in bondage. So, on this day of celebration, remember that the 4th of July has been accepted as the official anniversary of America's day of independence. Be mindful that June 19, 1865 is our day of Independence.

Martin Lawrence Live in Columbus, Ohio (May 2011) In case you missed it, after a long hiatus from stand up comedy, Martin Lawrence is very much still one of the funniest men alive!

A Helping Hand, Please!

By: Janice Carter

I remember trying to be in five different places at one time. I had five children doing different activities at different schools or locations. It would break my heart when I would have to choose one or the other. I just didn't want one of them to look up and not see anyone there to support them. Also, I didn't want anyone of them to have to wait to be picked up afterwards. So I ripped and ran, juggled, left work, even had to leave clients at times and so forth for years. I often thought "you did this to yourself and you just have to do what you can". I had no one to help me. In fact people always asked why I was trying to do so much? I think you should try to keep your child busy to deter them from other not so child like activities. This is not a for sure proof reason but it is a good shot at your child finding something that they are good at and want to stick with.

Which often builds discipline.

As the years went by I truly started to understand what people meant by "It takes a village to raise a child". My children attracted more children, on top of my nieces and nephews. My children didn't understand that the extra weight they added to me was too much at times. At the same time I knew that if I didn't help these other children out there was a great possibility they would miss out on the opportunities to do some positive things. I could have said to my children “that is not my responsibility “, and in fact I have said it a time or two, but whatever the situation was, I did it any way. I have fed kids, treated kids, and lapped up like the car in the circus at times to make sure no one got left behind.

I say all of this to say that even though you may birth a child, it is always nice to know that you can count on someone who will help guide your child while you work, while you sleep and even if you just needed a break. No, you can’t trust everyone. So always use caution when it comes to your children. Divorce, separated or whatever the case maybe put your child’s well being first, there are broken families knowing that things could be much easier if the adult wasn't so stubborn.

People move on in life for whatever reason and sometimes a bitter or brokenhearted person will use a child/children as a pawn.

People rather rely on children taking care of children or a child watching after themselves than to ask for help. We have to put our children best interest before a lot of the nonsense. Back in my days “No child left behind” meant when your children was out of your sight they were in the view of your neighbor or the storeowner. We need to get back to helping one another.

Independence is a condition of a nation, country, or state in which its residents and population, or some portion thereof, exercise self-government, and usually sovereignty, over its territory.

July 4th, 1776 the day we all celebrate as that triumphant day when Declaration of Independence was signed. A great day indeed. Tradition mandates that we signify this day with tribute to our fight and victory for freedom form our perceived oppressive dictator Great Brittan. With the stroke of a Quill Pen, on the document drafted at the Graff House in Philadelphia, humanity and the world would forever be changed. Pride in our Independence and our newfound freedom, gave this new nation a chance to make its own history.

This is a day we set aside in the middle of summer to gather with family and friends and show our patriotic spirit. Being a national holiday we have a day off from most jobs to have fun filled barbecues and picnics. People look forward to the 4th and plan elaborate parties to make sure they utilize this day to the fullest. We walk around in out Red White and Blue displaying our fashion and decorative support if not for our country at least our love for the 4th. American Flags fly from building tops down to homemade t-shirts. Parks, backyards, and driveways are lined with grills puffing hickory smoke into the air as family chefs proudly prepare a feast over hot coals for their guests. Tables are filled with lemonades, beer, wine, liquor, potato salads, coleslaws, baked beans, corn on a cob, etc. even the dish that someone brings every year that no one eatsâ&#x20AC;ŚLOL! Laughter and good cheer circulate through the air as children play and adults over indulge in everything available to be consumed. All-day you can hear the whistle of bottle rockets, Roman

Candles and the barrage of what seems like thousands of firecrackers, M80s, quarter/half sticks of dynamite, sparklers, and every other illegal firework made. If you don’t have your own nighttime firework show you can usually find a suburb that has the budget to put on a Michael Bey 3D style fireworks ballet. GOOD TIMES HAD BY ALL! Definition of Independence: The state or quality of being independent; freedom from dependence; exemption from reliance on, or control by, others; self-subsistence or maintenance; direction of one's own affairs without interference.

We recognize the 4th of July as a day of independence right!

Do I even have to ask the question? The definition of Independence should make all of us take a closer examination of our own independent status. Look at the world around you and where you fit in…do you feel like celebrating your own Independence? Are we as independent in this society as we imagine? Or have we been left to continue to suffer in our ghettos and slums because we are systematically being targeted and set on a downward spiral?

Unemployment: “The Labor Department’s April statistical report showed that just 56.9 percent of black males over 20 years of age held jobs, while 68.1 percent of white males were employed.”

“The United States Secretary of Labor, Hilda Solis, pointed out yesterday that unemployment rates for African American men are unacceptably high, averaging 25% to 30%, and climbing to a breathtaking 40% in some areas of the country. The Secretary wants to create programs to put low-paying workers in jobs in inner cities.

In other words, if you are black and male in the United States, you are, statistically, living through another Great Depression.” Black “Lately in New York City, the experts have acknowledged that there is a 50% unemployment rate for Black Males in 2009. That means 1 out of every 2 Black Men in the city is unemployed. Based on this information, we can estimate in every major inner city across the country the Black Male unemployment rate is around 40%. These numbers are appalling and it would appear that the leaders in these communities would be putting pressure on the politicians for help.”

“While unemployment among the general population is about 9.1 percent, it's at 16.2 percent African Americans, and a bit higher still for African American males.”

Now we all know that these figures are low-balling the truth because $9.00/hr. jobs are what we are getting in our communities and you can’t live off of that. But what a way to feel really independent huh. Prison:

“US: More Blacks In Prison Today Than There Were Slaves In 1850” “For example, of nearly 250,000 state inmates serving time for drug offenses in 2004, 113,000 (or 45%) were blacks compared to 66,000, (or 26%) whites and 52,000, (or 21%) Hispanics.”

“Young, Black women the fastest growing prison population…In 2008, we knew the arrest rate in California was 49 out of every 1,000 for black girls, 8.9 per 1,000 for white girls and 14.9 per 1,000 for Latinas.”

“There are 49,400 more black men in jail and prisons today than there were ten years ago; however the rate of incarceration has not change. In 2000, there were 4,777 black men in jail for every 100,000 black men in the U.S. population, compared to 4,749 black men in prison in 2009. Although the rate increase among white males was higher during that time period (from 683 to 708), the current rate for black males is still almost 7 times that of white males (West, 2010).”

“What added insult to injury in the War on Drugs is that not only did the government play a role in allowing guns and drugs into black America, they were the first in line to chastise African Americans for possessing these items? A large percentage of black males behind bars have been convicted of drug possession, even though the major producers of both drugs and guns happen to be white. So while the state and American citizens are more than happy to see black men go to prison for possessing guns and drugs that have been created by someone else, there is almost no effort to go after those who create these deadly products in the first place.”

Education”

Year

Age

1971 2008 1971 2008 1971 2008

9 years 9 years 13 years 13 years 17 years 17 years

Average reading score Black White 170 214 204 228 222 261 247 268 239 291 266 295

Score gap 44 24 39 21 52 29

Table 1: Average reading scores of black and white students, 1971 and 2008 “Closer inspection of the data reveals that most of this reduction in the achievement gap occurred during the 1970s and 1980s. Since the 1990s, the gap between black and white students has remained relatively stable. Although the reading scores of black students continue to improve, they no longer grow fast enough to close the gap with white students.”

“The three-yearly OECD Programmed for International Student Assessment (PISA) report, which compares the knowledge and skills of 15-year-olds in 70 countries around the world, ranked the United States 14th out of 34 OECD countries for reading skills, 17th for science and a below-average 25th for mathematics.”

Looking at all the facts it shows that our Independence is in a very dark place in this society. What people don’t have the time to pay attention to is part of the reason why as a race and a culture we are the lowest in almost every aspect of living. Black men are either in prison or unemployed, black women are single parents or lost. We don’t earn the same wages, have the same opportunities, in most urban communities have decent education, and are left to repeat these trends over and over. Our indepedence comes from our ability to continue to survive when the odds are severely stacked against us. The day that we are all going to celebrate seems to be an unreachable fantasy. 2011 has eerie similarities to slavery days for blacks. The success of some has overshadowed the plight of the masses. Celebrate the 4th of July, but understand that we are owed our Indepence as well or at least a fair start just like every other race.

BLK ABYSS

Girlfriends Talk, The City United will be presenting you with an award this Saturday July 2nd at the ICON. This event is from 8p10p so please be on time. Only $5 at the door. There will be appetizers served and a Grand networking opportunity. We are bringing together the cities Promoters, D.J's and Media to say thank you for doing what you do. Family and friends are welcome.

WUGR will be broadcasting live as well as filming the event. Zuela, Boss Lady and Chris want to say THANKS and show our appreciation for everyone that is keeping Columbus Entertained.

Just when you think no one is paying attention, you are beginning to question yourself and you want to give up, something or someone uplifting happens. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to The City United, World Underground Radio, Boss Lady Enterprises & Krazy Promotions for the two appreciation certificates that I received. This was truly that extra motivation I needed. Not to mention a good look for Columbus, Ohio. Congrats to everyone that received a certificate. This was truly a great event! Thank you all so much!

Sincerely, Janice L. Carter Girlfriends Talk Magazine

!

!!!

Jackie J Nance CEO at Ace Entertainment Management, LLC

It was a trill and a pleasure to be sitting at the same table talking to artists who have left an impacted on music for years to come. I am talking about a hip-hop legend like Kurtis Blow, Michel’le and the Rude Boys. I also had the pleasure of meeting the younger brother of Lyfe Jennings, Jay Rush. I had a ball and I really enjoyed the humbleness of these celebrities. Most of all I appreciate people like Liz Boss Lady – Walton, Eric GoShay and Jackie J. Nance who make moments like this possible.

Rude Boys The late great Gerald LeVert in a local nightclub in Cleveland, Ohio discovered the Rude Boys known for their hit song “Written All Over Your Face”. The Rude Boys speaks of their desires to return and stay relevant in the R& B industry. Although Joe Little is no longer apart of the group and off doing his own thing and Larry “Bingo “Marcus has dedicated his voice to gospel. There are currently three original Rude Boys, Edwards “Buddy” Banks battles with health issues but remains apart of the group and Dwight and Melvin who admits to it being a constant struggle but remains optimistic of their return. The love that they have for each other and for music makes it all worthwhile. They have been doing countless shows that include new material. When Dwight was asked if there were any regrets from the past he said “Get your paper right and make sure your contracts are right and everything is for your best interest. Don’t get shorted by nothing, get your own lawyer! Do the right thing once you start getting it to make sure you keep it. This business is a “ Here today gone today type of business.”

As they reminisced Gerald LeVert they spoke of his big heart generous heart. The great learning experience, tours and background singing.

With the assistance of Doc Walker (Atlanta) and Will Gather (Mississippi) they, admit that people are not as eager to help like that these days. As they express how much he is missed they continue to have contact with other Levert Family members. Vowing to keep their music respectfully grown and sexy, they also vow not to lose their street cred either. With hopes of an up coming tour with Silk, Head Of State, Tony, Toni, Tone and New Edition, They will be in Cleveland Ohio September 30th with the Whispers and After 7. Be on the look out for the new CD titled “Rude Loving”, coming soon.

Hip Hop Pioneer and Legend

Kurtis Blow If you are a true hip-hop junkie then I know you remember songs like “These Are The Breaks”, “ If I Ruled The World” and “ Basketball”! OMG, It was such an honor to be sitting here with a hip-hop pioneer and legend Kurtis Blow. So humble, laid back and smooth! He made this moment so easy.

When asked how it felt to be a part of history, this is what he had to say: Kurtis Blow: I feel blessed, I feel honored, miracle after miracle seeing just the creative spirited just flow around this country, around this planet, just to see how Hip Hop has taken the planet by storm and how people have been affected by it, it’s just amazing to see. I feel honored and blessed that I lived in a lifetime…in a time where I saw hip-hop being created. It’s amazing.

Being a ordain minister, Kurtis Blow admits to still listening to secular hip-hop music. But loves his old school 70‘s funk, James Brown and Motown.

How do you feel about today’s rap music?

Kurtis Blow: As a parent my son raps and he is Lil Wayne, Drake and all that, so it’s in my household. I am proud of him; he is a very intelligent young man and a great writer. Although Kurtis Blow admits that as a pioneer of the game it is frustrating at times to actually listen to some of todays hip hop music and some times he don’t. On another note he says raps are faster, wittier, there is some good, good stuff that’s out there, we just got to do our research. Underground stuff. Like conscious rap that’s really good. Like Talib Kweli, Roots, Common, Nas there is some positive rap stuff that seem like it was motivated and inspired from what we use to do. We just need to look for it, but there is a lot of mad flavor from all over, from the dirty south to the west coast to mid west. You got Kanye over in Chicago, Nelly in St. Louis. There are a lot of different cats out there doing it, I’m just amazed that there is just so much of it; it’s a lot of potential for a person to feed their family.

If he had to battle some of today’s artist, they would have to battle him in every category of hip-hop. B- Boying, Graffiti, DJ-ing. The new rappers will get us if we went rhyme for rhyme but show for show we would take them out. Because we really performed back then and we connected with our audience and our whole thing was for crowd response. We were there to make you say ”Ho!” and “Everybody Scream!”

That was our thing. And if you go into that for 10-15 minutes straight that’s hard to beat. And a lot of the new cats don’t have that crowd response; they may do it here and there in between songs and stuff but a concentrated Cab Calloway thing that’s what I mastered. Lyrically content is also a thing, back in the day we had a code of ethics, early, early groups Sugar Hill Gang, Kurtis Blow, Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five, Spoonie Gee people like that, before Run DMC, African Bombata, Soul Sonic Force, we never cursed. That was our thing. When we made our records we didn’t have to make radio versions.

Kurtis Blow raps: We got style We got class And we don’t pop our stuff too fast!

See we had that code where we had to make it slow and easy where people could understand because we knew we were the first groups coming out and we knew if we did the fast, fast rap it would be hard to understand and people would be saying “ what is he talking about”, “ I don’t understand”, “I don’t like it “! We knew if we came out cursing (we from the ghetto) we knew if we came out with this kind of mentality, it would not be accepted. So we all had the code of ethics and we knew that it was a sacrifice that we were making in order for us to spread hip -hop and for hip hop to be successful. Now there is no code of Ethics, so now anything goes.

Kurtis Blow is doing a major tour (with 30 shows) called “ Return Of The Kings” along with Krs One, Rakim , Dougie Fresh , Whoodini and Slick Rick also a compilation CD with the same title.

Make sure you all check out Kurtis Blow and the Trinity, gospel group on Itunes.

I had to ask his opinion on the M. C Hammer video “ Better Run Run” (about Jay- Z) Kurtis Blow: Mixed feelings, mixed opinion, as a Christian, I didn’t like it because were suppose to tell the truth in love and it doesn’t matter what anybody says about us what they do to us, Its about our relationship with God we are suppose to show love at all time we suppose to kill them with love, he was really just killing him! (He laughs) But on another note, a hip hop note, he gained a lot of respect even in L.A (got the kids in the street saying “I’m about to go Hammer on you”! he came with it, but on a lyrical not his flow makes us old schooler’s look bad.

Michel’’le Known for her squeaky voice and beautiful singing voice, Michel’le has blessed Columbus with her presence twice in the last few months. When asked about her opinion on the state of the music industry she said…

Michel’le: The business side of the industry is as horrible as it ever been, the music side is good because now it is universal; we get all types of it and I just love music.

The business side has always been the worst. I’m glad that we can listen to music from around the world. It’s good it fuses cultures in a great way to me and that’s good.

When asked about the west coast attention Michel’le : So much attention on the west coast music industry because Ruthless and Death Row went against the grain. Dre never came out of the studio, they never took breaks. There was drama everywhere but it wasn’t publicized as much as the west coast. The west coast drama was actually blown up bigger than what it really was.

She still feel that people still look at her as this teenage hip hop girl so she decided to title her up coming Cd “Grown”. That expresses her trials and tribulations and dealing with them. She is also working on a book , that doesn’t have a title yet , where she discusses her life situations .

Walking away and giving birth to her daughter is what turned her life around. Her return has been met with a warm welcome.

Her son takes after his father Dr.Dre and is also a producer.

Jay Rush If you close your eyes and listen to his voice you will notice a strong resemblance to the R&B soul sensation Lyfe Jennings. Although Jay Rush says he has heard this many times before and admits to some similarities and considers it an honor, he also lets you know that there is a big difference between the two of them and being the younger brother of Lyfe Jennings has nothing to do with it. Although it helps to grab the people’s attention, Jay Rush is truly holding his own out here with this thing he calls “Street Soul”! Coming from a talented family who once formed a group of their own known as the “Dotson’s” there is no doubt that this family was truly blessed with a natural uncut and raw talent.

Jay Rush made a comment that he felt R&B was dead, without disrespect he just feels that R & B music isn’t the same and it isn’t based off of true talent anymore. When asked the difference (to him) between R& B and Street Soul he stated R & B is more love making, more timeless opposed to Street Soul being more less coming from someone with nothing to lose. A songster imitation of his life, he felt he had something to prove. I consider this heart crying out music, which to me is that music that reaches inside and pulls out every emotion and leaves you with a sigh of comfort that someone understands exactly how you are feeling. Jay Rush wanted others in the same predicament to be able to vibe and relate to him. Comparing himself to a modern day Marvin Gaye, he definitely has what it takes to make you stop and listen.

Jay Rush has accomplished a few major features with the likes of AZ, Foxy Brown, Styles P, Players Circle and Bones Thugs and Harmony. On top of being a two times best Ohio Hip Hop Awards male vocalist winner. Jay Rush continues to record his own music and strengthen his buzz by releasing mix tapes he currently has a publishing deal and spends a great deal of his time writing for others. Make sure you all check out the “New Day” mix CD, go to www.jayrush.com, Yahoo music, Itunes, follow him on twitter@1jayrush and Jay Rush Music on Facebook.

Behind The Wall

Good Ole' Days By: Frank Comer

Words are designed to be impacted and posses a degree of power. In some cases, words have been the motivation to implement change or inflame a particular situation. A plan or layout must be put together to create a resolution that helps in eradicating the disease of self-destruction in our communities. There must be a positive and peaceful approach to this enormous problem, something must symbolize and say that, and “we are done! Enough is Enough.

Our communities once thrived with ambitious people wanting to make a difference where they lived. In the days gone by, Brothers and Sisters stood side by side, bound together by a common cause and an equal effort in demanding that we stop polluting our minds, and contaminating our bodies with harmful substances. These persons of pride and Blackness wore berets and shouted words that were expressional in systematic terms and concepts summoned from a revolutionary mind. Others stood erect in a state of order, discipline, and obedience, well dressed and wearing bow- ties, expressing the same disgust and having the same concerns regarding the state of our communities.

Today, the State of our Communities reminds me of the same conditions that once plagued our past, although the situations were not as extreme and out of control as they are today. We must resurrect a mentality as we did before, that gave us pride, dignity and respect. That pride which symbolized “weʼre tired”… and was displayed everywhere. Sacrifices needed to be made and changed was the result of these sacrifices.

Those who want change should embrace it without being consumed by fear or retaliation. There will be those who will say” Iʼve heard this before”, there will be others who will try to destroy your credibility with calculated sabotage. There will be those who will scrutinize and analyze everything that you say, hoping to find contradictions in your words and messages. I say to you stand firm and be committed to what is true in your heart. Be justified in your determination. Believe that there will be someone attacking you with a malicious intent( verbally speaking) because they want to destroy you and prove you wrong. Be deliberate with your knowledge and experiences. Make your awareness known to everyone. There will also be those who will believe a dressed up lie, rather than the naked truth.

There must be a way to stop those from drinking from the cup of ignorance and get them to drink from the cup of cold, hard truth?

Melody Moment

I can’t say enough about this CD. Beautiful is a good word for it. “Pieces Of A Woman” sums up a lot of us women. Jahiem added a nice little spice to this CD on the song “Staying Together”. This is a must have. I played it over and over. I heard other people raving over it on Facebook.

You will not be disappointed.

To be honest this CD is a downer, I don’t know what or if she was going through anything , but this CD isn’t what I been waiting for the past two years. Her and Jennifer Hudson should hurry up and get back to the lab!

I think Jill is more a live than ever on this CD. “ So In Love With You” with Anthony Hamilton is really nice. Jill Scott has a aura about her self that just lefts you know it will all be alright if you keep living. This is a feel good CD.

Racquel “Rokki” Bonner

Rewards of a 5K Have you ever considered running a 5K? The benefits may surprise you. A 5K race is 3.1 miles, the perfect distance for beginning runners. It's a realistic, attainable goal that's fun and satisfying to achieve. Here are 5 rewards you will reap: 1) Tone Your Legs: Runners have awesome legs. Muscular, toned and tan. Training for a 5K will get you on pace for your own set of lean limbs.

• Calves: Not the easiest muscle to tone in the gym, but these lanky muscles are quickly toned by running. A proper runner's stride has your foot landing in a rolling motion, heel to toe. As you push off with your toe, feel a firm contraction in your calves. Push your calves to the limit by running in sand or gravel. No Thumping! You know your stride is stiff when you hear a thumping sound with each step. When you lightly roll your foot from heel to toe, you take pressure off of your lower back. Remember, thumping feet lead to a sore back.

• Glutes: Running is a great way to firm up your glutes. To really raise your glutes take your training to the hills or do bleacher runs.

• Thighs: Who doesn't want slimmer thighs? Running does wonders for shaping and slimming your thighs, right where it counts.

2) Support A Cause By participating in a 5K you get in shape while supporting a cause. Most 5K races are put on by charities or non-profit organizations. Many times you have the opportunity to raise funds and community awareness through your involvement.

3) Flatten Your Abs Running burns a massive amount of calories. This means you'll find your body quickly morphing into that of a lean athlete. Don't over-compensate the extra calories burned by eating too many carbs. Manage your portions to reap the most belly shrinking benefits. While running is an amazing way to transform your body, running alone won't deliver complete results. Resistance training is an equally important part of the equation. With resistance training you get: • Raised Metabolism: Resistance training raises your metabolism for an extended period of time, even after the workout is finished. This means more calories burned. Also resistance training adds muscle to your body, which raises your resting metabolism to burn even more calories when you aren't exercising.

• Upper Body Muscle Tone: While running is great for adding lower body muscle tone, it won't do much for your upper body. With resistance training you target the muscles of your upper body to create a symmetric physique.

• Muscle Confusion: With resistance training there are endless variations of movements you can do in order to keep your muscles guessing. Never allow your routine to grow stale by doing the same motions over and over again.

4) Make New Friends Athletic endeavors are a relaxed way to make new friends and form connections within your community. Join a local running group to assist your training or start your own group of 5K hopefuls in your neighborhood. Your group could run the 5K together for support. Who knows, you may make new friends for life.

5) Start A Habit Although you may find it hard to believe, especially if you haven't yet run your first 5K, racing is addicting. The satisfaction of accomplishing your goal, along with the exciting changes in your body, will likely lead you to another race. It's not farfetched that you'll build your training up to run a marathon. Running is great, but as we touched on above, resistance training is essential for achieving outstanding results. The best way to get into amazing shape is with a challenging and dynamic exercise routine. Call or email today to get started on your own exercise program that will lead to more rewards than you ever dreamed of.

Fitness In The City! A Sexy Way To Be Fit Birthday Bash!

Smoked Salmon Wrap

Salmon is a rich source of omega 3 as well as protein. Couple that with sprouted grain tortilla and fresh arugula and you've got yourself a healthy, balanced meal that's ready in only 5 minutes. Servings: 2 Here's what you need: • 1 Sprouted grain tortilla • 1 Tablespoon low fat cream cheese • 4 oz Smoked salmon • 1/2 cup Arugula • Dash of salt and pepper • Spread the cream cheese evenly over one side of tortilla. Place the salmon in the center of the tortilla. Top with arugula. Add a dash of salt and pepper.

• Roll the tortilla and slice in half.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 175 calories, 6g fat, 12.5g carbohydrate, 3g fiber, and 16.5g protein.

Spread the word. Forward this newsletter to your friends, family and co-workers.

Jim Jones and Juelez Santana

Mansion, Columbus, Ohio July 1, 2011

Columbus , Ohio very own Dipset affiliates

YBM

The DRIVEN FOUNDATION is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to providing a continuum of educational programming along with support services to under served populations throughout Central Ohio and surrounding cities.

Ultimately, our goal is to empower these residents to realize their full potential through programming, community events and outreach focused on strengthening families and networks of support.

06/18/11 CONGRATULATIONS WESTERVILLE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL! 2011 DRIVEN 7 VS 7 TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS

July 2011 Horoscopes

Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): The way you express yourself may change over the next several Months. In fact, perhaps you want to relate to others but are finding it very difficult?

Perhaps you're creating controversy and don't know why? This is a good experience for you to understand the valuable aspects of peace making. It begins with intentions of goodwill. Study courage.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): You are being tremendously selfless. This is good. But it's only exterior. Internally, you're exhausted, tired of caring for others, need time for self, and wish others would be as charitable as you are. You think these thoughts are harmful. No, they're truthful. Unresolved problems arise that are not pleasurable. You will endure. Ponder serenity.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): You are to assess your group activities, what you do with friends, and how to better make yourself more agreeable with associates and business people. Also consider what you feel is lost by participating in group endeavors. Do you help everyone achieve their goals? Or are your goals the prime concern? Compromise gracefully and compassionately.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): "Usefulness" is the key word you need to consider when attracting situations and people to your life. It may be difficult to work harmoniously with others. A level of solitude is thus required. Venus wants to beautify and harmonize. Does your work environment need to be more attractive and comforting? Having beauty is professional. Have sincerity of purpose.

Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): If you are not involved in artistic, philosophical, or religious work, you are missing an expansion of consciousness that will create your future. If you're not being challenged by new thought, new music, or an entirely different environment, then you're missing a life encounter. Regard the strange and different as educational. What are you doing? No matter, just be reverent.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): If thoughts and ideas seem to be intertwined in veils of confusion, then you're on track, Cap. It's most important to maintain structure and order with finances, both what comes in and what goes out. You also need to coordinate, and listen carefully, to what others are saying. A Pisces has information for you and will speak to your deepest needs.

There's work ahead. You can do it. Just maintain a calendar of events.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Balance is the key working model for the next four Months.

Balance between your thoughts and ideals, between work and love, self and other, the state of your physical body and your Soul. Your state requires patience and caution. Should you display coldness and pride or criticism of others, you'll have trouble keeping your relations in a state of harmony.

Practice tolerance.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Some difficulty in relationships not handled prior to now will surface and what you found amusing won't be anymore. Check if agreements between you and others are clear and discuss everything openly. Be practical, share your resources, look at struggles as evolutionary tests, and have the intention to love with ease and restfulness. Do not dash about.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): Your idea of self will expand as the old, restricted self fades away. Your Gemininess will incorporate Sagness, integrating higher mind qualities and new ideals. Joy will result from deep study, and a broader religious and/or spiritual identity will emerge.

If you look at the glyph of your sign you'll see two pillars standing side by side. Do you know what those pillars represent? You might need a horse.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): Instead of being at home you might feel impelled to go here, there, everywhere in search of contact. What you're seeking is Love because that's the outcome of contact. For love to occur, you have to give it. Because you're a Cap who only understands what's useful, this is a useful statement. Concentrate more on philosophical studies and common sense.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): A great surge of love may be encountered from external sources which, in turn will stimulate you to love in return. The discovery that love is all around is an experience many do not know about yet. Therefore, during this time, you are to be an ambassador of love to all realities, kingdoms, people, places and things. This will integrate your Leo shadow side. Think of what the Sun provides, ceaselessly. Mentor it.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Finances again. Difficult or good, you'll have to handle them.

Prosperity, a book written by esotericist Katherine Ponder, teaches us that to have appropriate resources, we must project praise and gratitude so that the Life quality is always available to us.

Visualize money shifting from the Forces of Materiality to the Forces of Light. Now love it.

Deanna Marie Mundy

Jamika Morris

Missing from: Columbus, Ohio

Nickname or alias: Mickie

Missing since: 6/16/2011

Missing from: Cincinnati, Ohio

Missing age: 17

Missing since: 6/2/2011

Current age: 17

Missing age: 16

Date of birth: 7/15/1993

Current age: 16

Gender: Female

Date of birth: 11/29/1994

Race/Ethnicity: White

Gender: Female

Height: 5'2"

Race/Ethnicity: Black

Weight: 138 lbs

Height: 5'6"

Hair color: Red

Weight: 105 lbs

Eye color: Green

Hair color: Brown

Contact Columbus Police Department

Eye color: Brown Contact Cincinnati Police Department

Kirsten Long Missing from: Xenia, Ohio

Krista Michelle Smith

Missing since: 6/19/2011

Missing from: Xenia, Ohio

Missing age: 16

Missing since: 6/5/2011

Current age: 16

Missing age: 17

Date of birth: 4/26/1995

Current age: 17

Gender: Female

Date of birth: 5/16/1994

Race/Ethnicity: White

Gender: Female

Height: 5'6"

Race/Ethnicity: White

Weight: 109 lbs

Height: 5'0"

Hair color: Brown

Weight: 140 lbs

Eye color: Blue

Hair color: Blonde

Fairborn Police Department at (937) 754-3000.

Eye color: Brown Xenia Police Department at (937) 376-9901.

www.girlfriendtalkmagazine.weebly.com