February Issue 2019| Black History Month

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH


TABLE OF CONTENTS

All About Black History Month

03

Don't Say the N*** Word Periodt

04

Must-Watch Black Inspiring Movies

06

Top 9 Most Influential Black People

08

The Struggle of Being a Black Woman

13

Why Slavery Was Not a Choice

14

What to Do on V-Day How to Love Yourself This Valentines Day

Mclaughlin College, York University Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3 macmedia.eic@gmail.com

15

16

So You Want to Know About Sex?

17

Sex Survey Data Results

18

Sporty Things to do With your Boo

21

February Horoscope

February Issue. Volume 22 Issue #06

MACMEDIA STAFF Noor Almutaa

Editor - in- Chief Business Manager

22

FOLLOW US! MacMedia Magazine

@MacMediaMag @Officialmacmedia

Camila Seclen

Social Media Manager

Kristian Barlaan

Layout Designer

Jenna Yasi

Features Editor

Alyssa Offenheim

News Editor

Kristy Kilburn

Opinion Editor

Abdeali Saherwala

Humour Editor

Eric Sadhu

Health Editor

Saran Dhindsa

Sports Editor

Tonia Genete

Staff Writer 1

Amesha Gray

Staff Writer 2

Relina D'Cruz


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This month was –and still is— a reminder of how far our world has come and also, how far we still have to go. Canada is a perfect example of this. To many people across the globe, Canada is portrayed as a nation untouched of racial political instability. Yet, it was only 57 years ago in 1962, when the Immigration Act was amended to eliminate racial preferences. Though Black people are constantly breaking down barriers to the wall’s history has challenged them with, there is still an immense amount of change that needs to be done. I am grateful to be studying at a school that recognizes and shines light on this month, and all the amazingly talented individuals who contribute to making this month known and celebrated. However, there is immense controversy surrounding the celebration of this month. Many people do not believe a single race should have a whole month dedicated for them and their history. While the other side believe narrowing celebrations and recollections down into a single month means it is forgotten the other 11 months of the year. Personally, I believe this month should be celebrated and honoured. Yet, I do understand the point that just because we dedicate one month to shine light on it, we should keep educating ourselves and understanding history and current movements every single day of the year. What are your thoughts? This Black History month, I challenge you to commit to learning something new about black history. Read a book, talk to your peers, and rethink the stories our system has engraved in our brains.

I have always been fascinated by history. Old tales of powerful individuals fighting for their rights - The new innovations that marked the path for an ever changing global world.However, it was not until recently, that I ever questioned the stories I read from our history books. These advancements and historic milestones could not be accomplished without the fight and struggle Black people had to endure. Growing up we were taught the corrupted and one-sided story of Black people’s history. Did I really go all those years celebrating Christopher Columbus Day? Unfortunately, like many others, I did. That is why Black History Month is so important. Black History Month began in 1926. It originally was a weeklong celebration, but in 1976 President Gerald R. Ford ensured celebrations lasted a full month. His reason was that the USA should “seize the opportunity to honour the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans.” And so, Black History Month was born!

ALL ABOUT BLACK HISTORY MONTH. KRISTY KILBURN


In honour of Black History Month, we should strive not to use the “N” word. Canadian social activist Nellie McClung stated that people must know the past to understand the

Don’t Say the N*** Word Periodt. /AMESHA GRAY

present, and to face the future. Understanding the history behind the N word is important to understand why saying the N word is harmful/offensive. The term Negro is adopted from the Spanish and Portuguese language meaning Black. The term was used by prominent African American activists such as W.E.B Dubois and Booker T. Washington to empower African Americans during the civil rights movements. In contemporary North America, influential rappers and hip-hop artists started a movement of reclaiming the N word from being derogatory. The artists used the word in their song lyrics to self-identity as Black because being Black is more than the colour of your skin. However, there is a controversial meaning behind using the N word. The N word is a sign of oppression, racial segregation, inequality and injustice. Historically, the N word was used as a derogatory term by Whites to feel superior and to maintain their power. Saying the N word is accepting the marginalization and the oppression of a radical segregated group. Civil right activists such as Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks fought for social, political, and economic equality to overcome this oppression. They recognized that N word was more than just a word, but an identity given to them. PAGE 10

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In the media, there is a debate about who can say the N word. People who do not self-identify as African American who use the word are seen and portrayed as racist. While, people in the African American community use the word in a neutral context. Regardless of the colour of your skin, no- one should use the N word. It should not be a debate about who can use the N word, but it should be a debate about how the N word should be used. Saying the N word is not a fashion statement you make like the models on the runway. The word is not to be said just to be cool. The word is deeply rooted in history; N word represents endurance, strength, triumphant and progress. Now that you understand the past, you understand the present so you can make a difference in the future by NOT using the N word.

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Don’t Say the N*** Word Periodt. AMESHA GRAY


Black History is also widely

“Straight Outta Compton:” One of the most

recognized across many platforms

groundbreaking movies of its time, this

on modern media, including social apps, online videos, books, and movie adaptations. Hence, in the spirit of Black History Month, here is

gem tells the story of 5 individuals who use their life in Compton, California, one of the most dangerous cities in the world, as an

a compiled list of worthwhile movies

outlet to produce their own truthful rap

to check out that acknowledge the

music, and revolutionize the Hip-Hip genre,

many aspects of life as an individual

as music group N.W.A. This movie deserves

of African-descent: “The Help:” Widely famous for its depiction of power-based

a watch for not only the accuracy in the depiction of the oppression of this community against police forces, and

story of Skeeter, an aspiring writer

police brutality.

who decides to interview Black

Another great movie that brings light to

taking care of prominent white families, who indeed have

/ ERIC SADHU

portrayal of life in the hood, but also for the

relationships, this movie narrates the

women who have spent their lives

Must Watch Award Winning, Inspiring Movies

these such issues is recent release “The Hate U Give.”

much to say regarding their experiences.

““Hidden Figures:” Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monae

“Black Panther:” Not only did this movie bring in more than a billion dollars worldwide in the box office, but it was also the first movie by Marvel Comics to feature a Black

come together to bring light to issues such as oppression and power, and do so with their strong performance in this movie. This powerful trio stars as strong, academic

superhero. Chadwick Boseman stars

women working for NASA, and serving as

as King T’Challa, king and protector

the brains for the operation that launched

of his country, Wakanda, as well as

astronaut John Glenn into orbit,

his family, showcase ethnic traditions to his region, as well as strength when his family is tested against higher forces.

revolutionizing the Space Race. PAGE 6


“Moonlight:” What happens when

, “Girls Trip:” A long-awaited reunion turns

you cross a storyline like “Love,

into a wild experience between

Simon” and a family like “The Hate U Give?” You get “Moonlight,” a modern coming-of-age film that addresses homosexuality in a sentimental,

4 best friends with this film, which not only provides laughs and memories,

Must Watch Award Winning, Inspiring Movies

but also brings forth a satire on the double

heart-wrenching fashion, garnered

standard between men and

by a strong-performing cast

women that persists in modern society.

/ ERIC SADHU

including Ashton Sanders, Mahershala Ali, and Janelle Monae. “If Beale Street Could Talk:” In this film, Wife-to-be Tish Rivers recalls

There are a plethora of other items to check out this month, both movie and literary adaptations. However,

the future she plans on bringing to

this list is definitely a start into

fruition with her fiancé Alonzo, in

catching a glimpse into the lives of African-

which their plans come to halt when American citizens, in which Alonzo is arrested for a murder he did not commit. Another dramatic and sentimental narrative, “If Beale Street Could "Talk” addresses criminalization and honours love

there is appreciation to acknowledge in how far time has progressed towards equality and strength for citizens of AfricanDescent.

and endurance within an AfricanAmerican family, in a culturally and racially biased world set in 1970’s Harlem.“

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TOP 9 INFLUENTIAL BLACK PEOPLE Muhammed Ali Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., known as Muhammad Ali was born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. He was and still is one of the greatest professional boxers. At just 18, Ali shot to fame by winning lightheavyweight gold at the 1960 Rome Olympics. One of the fights that highlight the beginning of his career, was the fight in 1964, where he beat Sonny Liston and won his first world title and became the first boxer to capture a world heavyweight title on three separate occasions. He never gave up and always put up a good fight. The world lost a valuable treasure, but his legacy will forever live on, reminding us of the Greatest. He did not just physically fight; he continuously challenged the world and the system and stood up for what he believes in. Michelle Obama Former First Lady, Michelle Obama is one of the most influential African-American women in the world today. Not only is she a lawyer and writer, but she has become a truly inspiring leader for millions of young women globally. She has strongly advocated for the education and of girls who live in poverty and marginalized communities emphasizing on the importance of education, she initiated movements like “Girls Learn” to educate girls by collaborating with international and community leaders – teaching girls in all types of environmental and medical conditions. She rekindled hope and gave them a vision, a dream – all through the power of education.

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Malcolm X El-Hajj Malik el-Shabazz, also known as Malcolm X, was a major figure in the Cocol Rights movement. While he went through different periods in terms of political and spiritual association, he consistently advocated for PanAfricanism, including self-defence and determination. His actions may have been deemed radical to others, but overall his contributions towards the civil rights movement advanced the cause immensely. He continued to work towards his goal until his assassination in February of 1965.

Ella Baker Born in Norfolk, Virginia on December 13, 1903, Ella Baker is a woman known for shaping the development of the Civil Rights Movement in America. Growing up, Ella was told horrid stories of her grandmothers’ life as a slave. These stories empowered her to get involved in social justice, so that she may fight against the injustice racism is embedded in. After graduating from Shaw University, she moved to the Big Apple of New York City and quickly joined social activist organizations. Along with being an activist for Black Americans, she also fought for women’s rights and economic justice for all. After spending most of her early 20s in NYC, she went back to Shaw University to assist in educating new student activists. Due to the bountiful number of new emerging activists in the community, Ella began an organization called SNCC (Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) in April 1960. A main fight the SNCC battled was to register black voters – Ella believed that voting was a key component to freedom. Ella Baker passed away on December 13, 1986, her 83 rd birthday. Ella spent her entire life fighting for human rights and challenged the system in ways that had not been done yet. Her work continues to be respected today and she will be known as a hero of racial and economic justice.


Beyoncé Beyoncé is one of the most influential black artist in the music industry. She has been a critical voice in the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as other issues of race, body image, and social justice. She has become a powerful household name and a role model for women and minorities globally. She was the first American black woman to headline Coachella music festival. it is comforting to know that we can count on artists like Beyoncé to challenge the norm, stand up for those who feel they don’t have a voice, and give hope to others that anything is possible, no matter what your background is.

Oprah Winfrey A woman who needs no introduction, Oprah is one of the most influential people in the world. With an inspiring transcendence from a young life in poverty to one of unfounded success, Oprah has made a name for herself as a woman unafraid of confession, outreach, or new frontiers. Not only is she the richest woman of African-American descent in the world, last quoted as a multi-billionaire, but she is also considered a major force of political influence and beneficiary of charities. Her ability to come across as a friend in your circle in spite of all of this success only speaks to the grace, wisdom, and kindness that she exudes, a role model for all.

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Barack Obama Remembering Barack Hussein Obama's work in Black History month is vital for he proved to everyone that anyone could lead a nation as powerful as the United states of America. He proved that a nation rooted in racism, bigotry, and slavery has the capacity to rise and elect a black man as their Commander in Chief. He is truly an inspiration to everyone, who yearns to lead and become an inspiration to future generations.

Rosa Parks Rosa Parks is one of many individuals recognized during Black History Month, who earned her name when she decided to resist giving up her seat to an individual of white colour, and was subsequently punished for doing so. This action made her an influential name because of her contribution to civil rights and equality, as well as feminist rights. She stuck to her belief that black people were entitled the same rights as everyone else, and her advocacy contributed to our current society, where we are able to have females in civil power, as well as individuals of African descent.

Viola Desmond Viola Desmond, a Black Canadian businesswoman, challenged racial segregation when she purchased a ticket to a movie and sat on the main floor. At the time, white and coloured people had their own sections to sit. Viola refused to move to the balcony, she was dragged out of the theater, later fined and charged for tax evasion. She was pardoned 63 years later. Viola is an inspiration to all because of her courage to combat this injustice, which is why she deserves to be commemorated on the $10-dollar bill. PAGE 11


VALENTINES DAY


In cases like the R Kelly scandal where black women had the courage to come forward and tell their stories despite the terrifying truth that comes with facing their abuser. They have to cope with ridicule and skepticism from everyone even when evidence is stacked against the accused. R Kelly was charged with twenty-one counts of child pornography with a black minor and all the victims were black women yet he was pleaded not guilty. We can’t ignore the fact that had it been white women the case might be going in a different direction. This is nothing new, people love to act like these statistics are surprising but it’s been like this from time. The world is known to be antiblack and the taboo around sexual assault survivors just adds onto the open wound. Rape culture is a huge contributor as to why female victims are hesitant to step forward in situations of abuse along

The Struggle of being a Black Woman.

Written By: Hafsa Ibrahim

with the fear of not being believed. The negative stereotypes often become the focal point surrounding these topics in regards to violence against black women specifically and can result in life threatening outcomes. These stereotypes hold so much more power then just the public perception of targeted communities but the outlook on our safety as a whole. The simple idea that black

The black woman is the most disrespected person

women are tough seems harmless and almost

in present day North America. The unrelenting

complementary to the ignorant but this opens up the

weight that comes with the expectations of being a

opportunity of neglect. Leaving black women to deal

black woman is crushing. To have to constantly

with things on their own without the proper support

validate your self worth is a process that is never ending and when it comes to cases of abuse we’re usually left to fend for ourselves. Black women face disproportionate high rates of violence and have to endure the systemic injustices within every institution after surviving cases of rape and sexual

that would be readily available to the damsel in distress white woman that always needs saving and countless support. Progression will only become realistic once the voices and lived experiences of black women are validated.

assault. 13


WHY

S L AVE RY

NOT

A

WAS

CHOI CE

Written by: Amesha Gray Well, slavery is not a choice because African Americans did not choose to be marginalized and exploited. The marginalization of African Americans was a means to keep Black people in poverty. Poverty was a means to keep Black people from being educated. Education is empowerment! Empowerment provides individuals with the chance to fight for their rights and freedom. Black’s rights and freedom were stripped from them this implies that they were not equal under the law. Slavery took an important part of what it meant to be different and have your own thoughts and opinions.

The Slave Code of 1712 in South Carolina stated:

The slaves had nothing but their identities and that was taken away from them. Your personality, dreams, and aspirations were not important because they were given a number, auction and sold. Slaves weren’t given the choice the blue or the red pill like in the matrix. They only had one sad reality and that was to work long hours on the plantation and endure harsh conditions. In some states, religious gatherings were banned as a tool to isolate slaves to prevent rebellions. Slaves that tried to escape captivity were killed or beaten near death and left to died. Escaping captivity meant leaving behind the people that they bonded with on the plantations, their family, and their loved ones.

slaves but the slaves sang melodies like "Sweet

any slaves attempting to run away and leave the colony received the death penalty, any slave that evaded capture for 20+ days was to be publicly whipped for the first offence; to be branded with the letter R on the right cheek for the second offence; to lose one ear if absent for 30 days; and to be castrated for the fourth offence. Being raped and beaten was not a choice that anyone would consciously make. Slaves were chained, shackled, hanged, burned and mutilation for the slave master to reassert their dominance. These activities were done to break the spirits of the Chariot” and “Steal Away” to lift their spirits. These melodies were more that songs; they were songs about death to escape the inhumane treatments. The definition of choice is the right, power, or opportunity to choose (option), slaves did not choose to become slaves to give up their rights, freedom and identity. So, no, Kanye West – slavery is not a choice!

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WHAT TO DO ON V-DAY THE ULTIMATE ANSWER TO

Cute, isn’t it? You could also plan a spa day for your partner and yourself. It’s refreshing,

By Relina D’Cruz

it’s relaxing and it’s perfect if you both have super busy schedules. It’s exactly what you need to take a break. Next, if marriage is a With Valentine’s Day approaching, I can say that love really is in the air. February Everyone’s thinking about what to get their partner, where to go, what to do to make it more special. Well, I’m about to make your life A LOT easier – so easy that I will suggest what to do for your partner if you guys are an older couple and a newer couple. I get that as an older couple, you have nearly done everything on the list for Valentine’s Day and newer couples may want to try out the “traditional Valentine’s Day” gestures. Older Couples: Since going to fancy dinners may be mundane for certain older couples, you may want to consider cooking your significant other a special dish, or better yet, cooking together as a couple. If you think you’re leaning towards the surprise element, think of a candlelit dinner with their favorite meal.

This shows your partner how much you care about them and the amount of effort you are willing to put in for them. As time passes by, that tends to dry out with long relationships. Next, maybe take a trip down memory lane. You guys may have started dating back in high school? That means a lot of time and events have passed by. If you are a hoarder and save photo booth pictures, movie tickets, corsages from prom, maybe even the bill from your first date, consider compiling a memory book containing these. You can also list all the songs that became “your” songs. Doing this would may your partner cry, like literally. Not just that, but they would feel blessed to have you save little memories of you guys. Another idea, this one’s if you like to go a little overboard with things. Plan a get away trip for the both of you, maybe even Niagara? A place that’s away from the daily routine, somewhere you can both feel free and loved.

prospect you both have been hovering around, then maybe solidify that by proposing? Saving the best for last, think about what your partner likes in bed - kinky? passionate? bondage? Please them! If you are a new couple, you might want to celebrate Valentine’s Day on the grand scale. You both are really into each other at this point, and would do anything to show how much you mean to one another. Start of Valentine’a Day with breakfast in bed (if you know what I mean). Make some heart shaped pancakes, or if he likes basketball or soccer just a round will work! Next, obviously take your partner out to a fancy dinner. Make sure you both coordinate in terms of outfits, if she’s wearing a white dress consider wearing a white dress shirt. Plan ahead!! Make reservations. You have no idea how many places will be booked for Valentine’s Day. Even Valentine’s Day weekend will be packed so be smart! End off the day pleasing your partner in any way they like. PAGE 15


HOW TO LOVE YOURSELF THIS VALENTINE’S DAY Written By: Alyssa Offenheim Although Valentine’s Day is conventionally known as the day of romantic love, I’d like to propose that singles out there use it in 2019 to celebrate the awesome stuff they have going for them with some pure and sweet self-love. After all, there are many reasons for which you can live your best life on Valentine’s Day, even when you’re a single pringle. Just think of it: - You can enjoy a whole heart pizza to yourself without a greedy partner stealing all the dipping sauce; - You can watch a series on Netflix that you want to watch without compromise; - You can sing empowering songs in the comfort of your own room without fear of judgment; - If hanging out at home isn’t your style, you can ring up your best buddies and hit up the bar without feeling the guilt of not inviting your significant other; - You and your pals can use the evening to plan your next global trip where you’re free to explore all fish in the sea that the world has to offer! - You can spend the money you otherwise would have spent on a gift for SO by treating yourself to a nice body pillow that you can cuddle with all night long; - You can spend the night building that booty and working on your confidence at the gym!

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As you can see, there are several reasons that being in a relationship isn’t all that’s cracked up to be. I mean, if you are tied down and loving it, kudos to you and you increased chance of mono. But if you’re not, and you’re living free and wild, don’t let Valentine’s Day persuade you that you need anything otherwise!


SO, YOU WANT TO KNOW ABOUT SEX? Saran Dhindsa SAFE SEX. WHAT IS IT? HOW DO YOU PRACTICE IT? WELL, THAT’S WHAT PART OF THIS ARTICLE IS ABOUT. ESSENTIALLY, SAFE SEX IS ABOUT KNOWING WHAT YOU’RE DOING AND THE SEXUAL HISTORY OF WHOMEVER YOU’RE DOING IT WITH. SO I’VE CREATED A LITTLE LIST FOR YOU TO USE TO PRACTICE SAFE SEX.

1. Consent. This ought to go without saying, but I’m saying it anyway. Remember consent is ongoing, it goes both ways and you can’t get consent from someone who is inebriated. 2. Ask the person if they’ve been tested, and what the results of their test were. It seems ridiculous, but it helps if you do the same. Knowing everything about the person makes your decisions easier. 3. Always get yourself tested. It doesn’t need to be a monthly thing, but you should get yourself tested at least once a year. PAGE 17

4. Make sure you always use protection. It doesn’t matter if you know them or feel comfortable enough. Condoms, Dams, wash your hands. Wrap it before you tap it. The most commonly reported STI in Canada is Chlamydia (I know, you’re thinking of the Coach in Mean Girls – he was an idiot). Chlamydia is more prevalent in women and while it can be asymptomatic (symptomless), the most common symptoms are painful urination, irritation, bleeding during/after sex and painful/swollen testicles. So, if you want to avoid all that, please review the list above. The usual treatment involves a round of antibiotics and a long discussion with your doctor about your sexual behavior.Yes, in order to be protected, you have to use condoms consistently and properly. So, I reiterate – wrap it before you fucking tap it. Finally, for my ladies out there: Always remember to use birth control if you don’t want to get pregnant. Yes, while it isn’t 100% effective, it is something. So, if you’re thinking about having sex, you might want to go to your doctor and get a prescription. There are risks associated with the medication, such as weight gain, headaches, nausea, blood pressure and mood swings. Make sure you take it at the same time everyday, and if you can’t remember whether or not you took it, download an app to help you keep track.


Q.

48.1%

BUT 30% OF US LIKE IT ROUGH. Q

87%

Bed

Q. Couch

49.6%

Car

48%

EW NEVER!

45%

Kitchen Counter

0%

HOW OFTEN DO YOU WATCH PORN?

ONCE IN A WHILE

6%

Shower

Classroom

51.9%

51% OF US ARE PORN PRUDES.

WHERE DO YOU MOST LIKELY GET YOUR FREAK ON?

Public Transit

FUN

46% OF US LIKE IT PASSIONATE.

GROSS

SEX SURVEY RESULTS

ONE NIGHT STANDS ARE?

31% 18% 25%

50%

75%

100%

49.6%

19%

EVERY WEEK

17%

EVERY DAY

14%

40% OF WOMEN LIKE TO GET THEIR HAIR PULLED. PAGE 18


55% NO. 45% YES.

34.2%

NO

FAKING AN ORGASM IS?

DID YOU HAVE SEX AT YORK?

YES

Q.

30% OF US LIKE IT MISSIONARY.

65.8%

40% OF US LIKE IT DOGGY STYLE.

Q. DOES SIZE MATTER TO YOU?

37% HOW YOU USE IT. 25% YES. 27% NO I LOVE THE PERSON.

Q

Q. DO YOU LIKE TO CUDDLE?

After

WHAT MAKES YOU ORGASM MORE?

AL

19.3%

OR

Before

51.8%

28.9%

No 0%

SEX

D H A NF F STU

Occasionally

20%

40%

60% PAGE 19


STRANGEST/FUNNIEST/MOST EMBARRASSING SEXUAL EXPERIENCE? “NEARLY GETTING WALKED IN ON BY ALL MY SIBLINGS!”

"ACCIDENTALLY FARTED WHEN GIVING A GUY A BLOWJOB” "A GUY SHIT ON THE BED, WHILE WE WERE HAVING SEX." “HE COULDN'T STAY HARD DURING THE SECOND ROUND THIS ONE TIME & ONCE WHEN I WAS GIVING A BLOWJOB IN A FAMILY BATHROOM HE ACCIDENTALLY CAME ALL OVER MY LEGGINGS”

“WOKE UP IN POOL OF BLOOD BECAUSE MY BACK WAS SO CUT OPEN FROM HER NAILS. EVERYONE CAME IN MY ROOM AND I HAD TO PAY THE MAID EXTRA TO NOT FINE THE ROOM” Q. WOULD YOU RATHER GIVE UP MASTURBATION OR NEVER RECEIVE ORAL SEX?

47% OF WOMAN SAID THEY WOULD NEVER RECEIVE ORAL. 53% OF MEN SAI D THEY WOULD GI VE UP MASTURBATI ON PAGE 20


Don’t like working out alone? Get your boo and try some of these activities, it will get your blood pumping and help you bond more. The classes that I will suggest are affordable and fun. I particularly attended one of them and that was literally my "’heaven.” If you want to get your groove on, but don’t like official classes, you can party and also get some salsa lessons in at Lula Lounge. On Saturdays, Lula Lounge features big salsa bands playing a mix of original material and your salsa/bachata favourites. Admission is $20 at the door or you can get a three- course dinner and show prix fixe for $59. You can have a romantic dinner with live bands playing and a dance lesson. Has your boo been annoying you lately? Well, you can take that anger out and spend quality time (because even though they piss you off, you still love them) with a session of paintball at Defcon Paintball for around $30. Another good reason to go paintballing is that it burns about 7 calories per minute. Great workout and therapy session. If you prefer something more relaxing and interesting keep reading because I got the perfect class for you. I personally attended this class and had the time of my life. It is a excellent form of exercise and distress. Are you a dog lover? Well, then this is the perfect class for you. You can now take a yoga class with puppies running around at Pups Yoga Toronto. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly there, you’ll feel more relaxed from the moment you enter the building. The room is big and has a lot of natural light and did I mention that they have puppies? As a massive dog lover that was my literal heaven. You can play with the dogs for about ten minutes before and after the class and while you do yoga you can stop and play with them as well. They have also worked with the Toronto Humane Society and from what I have seen, they take great care of their puppies, it is just like a perfect big loving family. While you do your downward dog, tree pose or Savasana, they will sniff, lick and jump on you. Pups Yoga Toronto has a large demographic from what I’ve seen, best friends, couples, mothers and daughters attend the class. So you can definitely bring your boo and line your chakras together while playing with some furry new friends. I will definitely attend the class again and drag my boo along with me This was actually my first time doing yoga and it was a great and new experience. I was a bit skeptical to think of yoga as an workout, but I was surprised to fill my muscles contract during certain poses just as they would in a core workout ( the tree pose challenged me the most). Adding just a few poses daily can help your health in many unexpected ways. Physically, yoga helps improve flexibility, strength, balance, and endurance. It also teaches you how to cope better with stress by cultivating a sense of ease and how to cultivate mindfulness by shifting your awareness to the sensations, thoughts, and emotions that accompany a given pose or exercise. Pups Yoga Class offers classes every weekend for $35 and all you have to do is go online and reserve your spot, then show up with your mat and a big smile. They only have one rule and that is to keep smiling! Hopefully, you found some of the activities interesting and decide to try them yourself. Let us know by leaving us a comment or message on our Instagram page. See you guys next month!

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Sporty Things to do with your Boo WRITTEN BY: TONIA GENETE


February Horoscope Aries: someone may expect something from you that you don't have or are not willing to give, but because of your good fortune, it could cause hard feelings. If that occurs this month, be as gracious and empathic as possible, trying to understand the source of the discord. Throughout February you may notice a rise in the level of demands on you at work or in your home environment. This may translate to several puzzling problems you will have to resolve on your own, or an overload of responsibilities that have caught up with you. Don't let the stress get to you. Just take it one chore at a time. Taurus: At first, Taurus, you may feel that this month is marked by one small irritating problem after another. Even though there may be nothing that is too significant occurring, the weight of a lot of small issues adding up could get to you. But if you are mindful of this ahead of time, and you deliberately take things in stride, you can really ride this out in an optimistic way and change the whole tone of your month. In fact, you will find that you'll feel good about yourself, and you will learn a new coping mechanism for trying times. When you least expect it, something wonderful could happen for you. Gemini: You may see a sudden spike in your social life, where both new people and friends from your past are popping up out of nowhere and demanding your presence. Have fun, but don't overdo it, because you really do need to maintain a sharp mind to take advantage of all the wonderful chances that are coming your way. Listen to your heart when someone approaches you toward the end of the month on an investment matter. Whether this is an investment of money and resources, or just an investment of time and energy, you need to think it through thoroughly and weigh whether this makes sense for you at this time

Cancer: You may have made a decision recently when you were in a passionate mindset. What seemed perfectly rational and right at the time may now seem rash and foolish. This month, Moonchild, you may have to deal with what transpires because of that decision, but fear not. Now that you have had time to settle down and see things from a more grounded perspective, you will realize what you did back then was right. Validation should come to you before this month is over. A kindhearted friend may attempt to do you a favor this month that doesn't seem like much of a favor. Indulge this person anyway and show them that you are grateful they are thinking of you. Leo: A conflict at work or among a group of friends may work its way to you this month, even though you were not initially involved. Do your best to steer clear of this, as it could become ugly as many different personalities are involved, with each of them wanting some different outcome. Even if you are only trying to mediate, you could get sucked into the hostile vibe of the exchange, which wouldn't be fair. Later in the month, a happening in your neighbourhood or hometown could beckon, and it could reawaken an old goal or dream of yours. Virgo You are a very discerning person with a critical eye for detail. You like getting things just right, and some might even call you a purist. This month, dear Virgo, you may find yourself working on something that gets your juices flowing in this regard. There may be a process that you can take charge of where you can use your entrepreneurial and organizational skills to great advantage. Just be sure that you don't become so obsessed with this that you overlook other more pressing obligations.

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February Horoscope Libra From the very beginning of the month, Libra, you have to begin with the mindset that you won't sweat the small stuff. It will be easy to become irritated by foolish squabbles, petty disagreements, and annoying people. There may be several instances throughout February when that will be possible. But if you do allow it all to get to you, it will create an uncomfortable tone that will carry through for weeks. On the other hand, if you go with the flow, you will find that your entire month will be happier and more harmonious.

Capricorn You may find this month that you keep receiving signs that could bring you an answer to a question you sent out into the universe. Just be sure that you accept the signs as they are rather than interpreting them in the way and with the message you are hoping to receive. Be honest with yourself. This month may also find you thinking about embarking on a healthy lifestyle change. Whether this is healthier eating, more exercise, or more time to relax and rejuvenate, it is coming at an excellent time. It's especially important now to do some selfnurturing.

Scorpio You may feel as if you came into an opportunity a day late and a dollar short, Scorpio, and as this month begins, you may feel downtrodden because of that. Where you once had hope for a dream, you may now feel like it wasn't meant to be. But you are precisely where you should be, and you are neither a day late nor a dollar short. What counts now is that you make the most of the resources you have at your disposal and forge ahead with zeal and passion, for this is something you can make work out quite successfully if you try.

Aquarius This is the shortest month of the year, of course, but you will be able to pack a lot into it. You can accomplish quite a lot in February if you are diligent in going through your to-do list and you check off each point as you go. You may find yourself suddenly gaining a burst of energy and your insight may seem crystal clear. Make the most of that rush for the finish line. And make sure you enjoy it too. This is a great month to shine while doing what you do best, dear Aquarius.

Sagittarius Somewhere along the way last month, you may have lost your power or your authority. Someone was pushy or domineering, and in order to get along, you may have given up some of your command and allowed this person to push you around a bit. You may notice a bit of a change in your love life. This could mean a partnership in a shared interest with an old love that fell through. Either way, you will have a favourable time for the love and comfort. Late in the month, a chance to speak or to present to a group could result in some amazing connections that can make your life richer and more rewarding.

Pisces Someone may be putting a lot of pressure on you now to live up to their expectations of you. Perhaps this individual feels you have been slacking in some area, and they are not mincing words about it. Whether you agree or not, Pisces, you need to recognize that this nagging is done with love. Later in the month, there may be a need for restoration or repair in some area of your life. This could be some actual type of repair - such as residing the house or some upgrades or overdue maintenance to your car; or it could be more metaphysical and emotional restoration and repair in some area of your life.

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CELEBRATE DIVERSITY FEBRUARY 2019


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