ILLINOIS VOICE MAY 2011 ISSUE

URBAN PROFESSIONAL LIFESTYLE

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'Olympians have a sense of dedication and focus that is not typical — you're talking several standard deviations away from the average.'—Dean Baim, Professor Economics and Finance, Pepperdine University

Photo by Reuters President and Michelle Obama and Olympians, Jackie Joyner Kersee and Dominque Dawes. The president and first lady host a White House event to promote support for the 2016 Olympics in Chicago.

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Names and references to third parties in this digital advertisement are used with permission.© BFA Energy Solutions. All rights reserved.

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iiconn DESIGN Studio

Pencil and Charcoal Portraiture

By Edward L. Jones Jr. I provide fine hand drawn portraits of children, grandparents, pets, etc.

The portraits are accurate and result in a full likeness of any subject. To receive pricing structure or estimates for large portraits I prefer contact through email. IDSpencilportraits@gmail.com 15

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1728 West Bradley Champaign, IL 61821 217-398-8557

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Wishes Our Readers A

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Once Again I’m Back Again Past Life was a Trip Now I’m Born Again I thought the above lyrics from my son Maleek’s forthcoming mix tape was appropriate to mark the ―Born Again‖ Chicago Bull’s trek to the NBA Championship.

More specifically, our cover this month hosts the remarkably athletic and talented Derrick Rose. IV congratulates d rose on being named the 2010-2011 NBA Most Valuable Player. Now let’s go treat Miami!!

This month IV celebrates the 140th Anniversary of Union Baptist Church in Springfield, IL. Union Baptist church was organized in November 1871 by seven persons who withdrew from Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Because they were united in thought and action, they therefore named the church, "Union". The ground for the original church was donated by one of the Deacons J. H. Brooks. The first edifice was built on the corner of 12th and Mason Streets. Union Baptist Church became an instrumental factor in the community for Christian living and fellowship and remains so today.

We also celebrate Harvey (J-Love) Hall on fulfilling his dream on becoming a Free and Accepted Mason with Central Lodge #3 of Springfield Illinois.

IV is pleased to showcase a photo essay by Erica M. Brooks entitled, “Life More Abundanlty Celebration; The Growth Continues” on the City of East St. Louis’ Inaugural Activities held May 11, 201 to commemorate the Honorable Mayor Alvin Parks Inauguration to his second term.

May also marks the kickoff of IV’s Your Health Matters; Wellness Through Awareness initiative. Your Health Matters is a collaborative effort of various agencies to positively impact the wellness issues within minority communities through increased awareness.

We will have special inserts in IV through September 2011. Stay tuned because…Your Health Matters This month we profile Mr. Tony Jones of Bloomington, Il., Ms. October Warden of Chicago, Ms. Eleanor Smith of Chicago, IL and the beautiful Nun Tet of Newark, NJ. Mr. Tony Jones is a serial entrepreneur and a servant of his community who is striving to bring awareness to the Central Il culture.

Ms. October Warden has developed a wellness program that she will be bringing to the masses that has allowed her to loose excessive weight thus increasing her physical and spiritual well-being.

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Ms. Eleanor Smith is an accomplished entertainment journalist who has interviewed such celebrities as Forrest Whitaker and Al B Sure among others. Ms. Smith is the Founder and Editorial Director of Cherish the Soul Entertainment Blog Site.

Nun Tet is an intellect and accomplished model who has worked with some of the major publications. We look forward to seeing more of her.

Starting in June, IV will have ad another section to our publication entitled, ―Bid News.‖ This section will have public notices from municipalities, the state of Illinois and the federal government for projects that seek minority participation. In addition, our goal is to become a one stop source for prime contractors seeking minority subcontractors and vice versa.

IV would like to welcome William Bishop III as our newest contributor. Bill is a steward of the community and we are grateful to have their contributions.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!!

Regards,

W. E. ―Pete‖ Reeves Founder/Publisher

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Publisher

VERVE MEDIA, Inc. P.O. Box 2704 Springfield, Illinois 62708

Office : 217-761-5778 Fax: 217-793-6939 Cell: 901-832-1144 Email: illinoisvoice@gmail.com Web Site: myillinoisvoice.yolasite.com Editor & General Manager

W. E. “Pete” Reeves

IT Production Assistant

Natasha Crider

Senior Social Correspondent Teresa Haley Contributors

Malcolm Beal-Reeves Joya Abdul Zarif Tia Dent Pat Moody Ball-j Teresa Haley Joyce Nash Michael Johnson Yogini Mafdet JaelMack Meier Lathan

Jo Lena Johnson Prophetess Jennie Chalden Destinee Love Celeste Poole Sarah T. McGee Tainted Lucas Mier Lathan Sylphia R. Lindsay Nell Clay Alicia Wilson jasira William Bishop III

Illinois Voice is published monthly. © Copyright 2011 by VERVE MEDIA, INC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without permission is prohibited. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: VERVE MEDIA, INC., P.O. BOX 2704, Springfield, Illinois 62708.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Send $50 a year: (Add $15 per year for overseas delivery.) Manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and letters to the editor are welcome, but Illinois VOICE can take no responsibility for them while in transit or in the office of the publication.

Letters may be edited. Information published in Illinois VOICE is gathered from reliable sources, but the accuracy of this information cannot be guaranteed. Opinions expressed in Illinois VOICE are those of their authors, and no information or opinions expressed in Illinois VOICE represent an endorsement or solicitation for purchase or sale by Illinois VOICE or its staff.

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DEPARTMENTS

publisher’s page ...............

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celebrations ………………….

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on the cover ........ .............. 26 local......... ......................

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inspiration ......................

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in memoriam .................... 129 web culture ......................

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national...........................

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world..............................

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opinion...........................

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urbanity ..........................

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life & style ……………………

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money ........................

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wellness .....................

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business .....................

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sports ...........................

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remembrances …………

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COLUMNISTS

Bill Bishop ………………………..

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joya …………………………………. 120 Prophetess Jennie Chalden … 122 Jasira ……………………………….. 125 Raaw’ el Letrice Ware ………… 126 Destinee Love ……………………. 171 Alicia Wilson …………………….

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Celeste Poole …………………….

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Harvey Hall (J love) is now Free and Accepted Mason he belongs to Central Lodge #3 of Springfield ,Illinois. Their home is The first black fire station in the city of Springfield, IL., which now is under renovation.

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Since being drafted first overall in 2008, Rose has led the Bulls to the NBA Playoffs every year, along the way garnering significant personal accolades. He was the NBA Rookie of the Year of his draft class, became an NBA All-Star by his second season, and at the age of 22, in 2011, was named the youngest recipient of the NBA Most Valuable Player Award, joining Michael Jordan as the only Chicago Bulls players to win the honor.

Born in Chicago, Rose learned the game of basketball from his three older brothers. In high school, he won two state championships and was rated by scouts as the top point guard prospect in the country after graduation. He played for the University of Memphis Tigers and reached the NCAA national championship game in 2008. Shortly after, Rose declared for the 2008 NBA Draft and was selected by the Chicago Bulls In his first year of professional basketball, Rose was voted the Rookie of the Year and was selected to the AllRookie Team. In only his second season, Rose was selected as an All-Star for the first time for the 2010 NBA All-Star Game; he was also named a starter for the U.S. Team at the 2010 FIBA World Championships.

In 2009, an NCAA investigation revealed that Rose's SAT scores had been invalidated, making him retroactively ineligible to play for Memphis. As a result, the NCAA vacated Memphis's entire 2007–08 season Early life Derrick Rose was born and raised in the Englewood area, one of the most dangerous neighborhoods on Chicago's South Side. He was Brenda Rose's fourth son after Dwayne, Reggie and Allan, but the first in seven years. All three were talented basketball players who taught Rose the in and outs of basketball on nearby courts. As his talent for the sport grew, Rose began to attract much more outside attention in Chicago's basketball circles, leading his mother and brothers to restrict outside contact to him, fearing his road to the NBA would be exploited and derailed by outside parties such as street agents, such as with the case with former Chicago prospect Ronnie Fields.

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High school By the time Rose enrolled at Simeon Career Academy in 2003, he was 5'11" and a hot commodity for collegiate coaches. Despite his reputation, he played freshmen and JV basketball for the Wolverines and wore #25 in honor of Ben "Benji" Wilson, a former promising player who was murdered by a gang member during his senior year in 1984.Rose wasn't allowed on varsity due to a long-standing tradition that head coach Bob Hambric, who had been with the school since 1980 had; no freshman on the varsity team. That rule didn't lessen Rose's play and he went on to put up 18.5 points, 6.6 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 2.1 steals per game and led both the freshmen and sophomores to city championships with a 24–1 record.Hambric softened his stance and allowed the freshman a chance to play on varsity in the state tournament, but Rose declined, wanting the players to get due credit. The next year Hambric retired and Robert Smith was hired, opening the path to varsity. In Rose's much-publicized debut, he had 22 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals over Thornwood High School in a sold-out game filled with college scouts and coaches. He led the Wolverines to a 30–5 mark while averaging 19.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 2.4 steals but the season ended after a loss in state regionals. Rose's play garnered him his first national award: a Parade Third Team All-American spot.

During Rose's junior year in 2006, the Simeon Wolverines broke through and won the Chicago Public League championship held at the United Center where Rose starred with 25 points and crowd pleasing dunks. The team advanced through the playoffs and earned a berth in the Class AA state championship against Richwoods High School, where a fourth quarter buzzer beater by Richwood forced overtime. The score was knotted at 29 late in the extra period when Rose stole the ball and buried the game winning jumper with 1.5 seconds remaining, giving Simeon its first state title since the Wilson-led Wolverines won in 1984. The team finished 33–4, nationally ranked and Rose was awarded with an All-State Illinois mention, EA Sports All-American Second Team pick and another Parade All-American selection.

Entering his senior year, Rose was ranked the fifth best prospect in the nation by Sports Illustrated. In January 2007, Simeon traveled to Madison Square Garden in New York City in January 2007 to play Rice High School and star guard Kemba Walker. The Wolverines, however, lost 53–51. The season's highlight was a nationally televised contest on ESPN against Virginia perennial power Oak Hill Academy two weeks later. Matched up with hyped junior guard Brandon Jennings, Rose had 28 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds and held Jennings to zero points in the first three quarters, 17 overall in a 78–75 win. For his performance, USA Today named him their high school player of the week.

Simeon went on to repeat as Public League champions and defended their state championship, defeating O'Fallon High School 77–54. In doing so, Simeon 28

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became the first Chicago Public League school to win two straight state championships. In his final high school game, Rose scored 2 points, but pulled down 7 rebounds and totaled 8 assists. The Wolverines ended the season 33–2 and ranked 1st in the nation by Sports Illustrated and 6th on USA Today's Super 25. Rose averaged 25.2 points, 9.1 assists, 8.8 rebounds and 3.4 steals.

Overall Simeon's record while Rose played was 120–12. After his senior year, Rose was again All-State after being named Illinois Mr. Basketball and was named to the McDonald's All-American team. He was also awarded with First Team honors by Parade selection and USA Today and USA Today First Team All-American. Rose was selected to play in the Jordan Brand All-Star Game and Nike Hoop Summit. In 2009, Rose was named the decade's third greatest high school point guard by ESPN RISE magazine behind Chris Paul and T.J. Ford, and had his jersey number (#25) retired along with Ben Wilson.

College Left: Rose while playing at the University of Memphis.

Rose accepted a scholarship to play for the University of Memphis Tigers under John Calipari, who recruited him after seeing the high schooler play in an AAU game. Strong efforts were made by Indiana University and in-state University of Illinois to sign Rose to their own programs. Illinois in particular planned to pair Rose and their five-star recruit Eric Gordon, who had played AAU basketball with Rose, together. Gordon however retracted his verbal commitment from the Fighting Illini, opting to play for Indiana, and Rose subsequently gave his verbal commitment before the start of his senior season. Rose chose Memphis because of the school's history of putting players in the NBA and the prospect of Rod Strickland, a 17 year veteran of the league, mentoring him. Rose switched to #23, unable to wear his customary #25, retired by the school in honor of Penny Hardaway.

With the addition of Rose and led by veteran upperclassmen Joey Dorsey and Chris Douglas-Roberts, the Tigers started out the season ranked third in the nation. Memphis sprinted to a 26–0 start and claimed the number one ranking in the country for the first time in over 25 years before falling to the University of Tennessee Volunteers 66–62 in February.[37] Memphis was able to bounce back and capture the Conference USA Tournament to qualify for the "Big Dance" with a 33–1 record. Rose averaged 14.9 points per game, 4.7 assists and 4.5 rebounds 29

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per game during the regular season and earned All-American Third Team honors among others. He finished as a finalist for the Bob Cousy Award as well as the John R. Wooden Award.

Memphis was seeded No. 1 in the South Region and blew out most of its competition on its way to the Final Four. Rose earned high praise for his increased focus on defense, hounding Texas Longhorn guard D.J. Augustin into a low-percentage game in the Elite Eight. In a match-up against the UCLA in the Final Four, Rose finished with 25 points and 9 rebounds while putting tight pressure on Bruins' point Darren Collison to lead the Tigers to the NCAA championship game against the University of Kansas Jayhawks with a 85–67 victory.[42][43] The win set a NCAA mark for most wins in a season (38). Against Kansas, Rose scored 17 points on 7–17 shooting, grabbed six rebounds and dished seven assists, but missed a critical free throw at the end of the second half, and Memphis fell in overtime, 75–68. Memphis concluded the season 38–2. Rose was named to the All-Final Four team after averaging 20.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 6 assists during the tourney.

On April 15, Rose declared for the 2008 NBA Draft.

NBA career Chicago Bulls (2008–present) 2008–09 season: Rookie of the Year Left: Derrick Rose during his rookie season.

Rose was selected first overall in the draft by the Chicago Bulls,[1] an unlikely event considering that Chicago had only a 1.7% chance of capturing the top pick in the draft lottery held that past May. He was selected to the U.S. Select Team to scrimmage against and prepare the National Team for the Olympics in Beijing. In mid-July, he played two games in the Orlando Pro Summer League until forced out by tendonitis in his right knee, ending his summer, but returned in October to play all eight preseason games.

Rose started his rookie year strong, becoming the first Bulls draftee to score 10 points or more in his first 10 games since Michael Jordan,and earned Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month honors for November and December. During the All-Star Weekend, Rose played in the Rookie Challenge, and won the Skills 30

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Challenge, where he beat out several All-Stars to become the first rookie to claim the trophy. Overcoming a January and February slump, Rose returned to form and won monthly rookie honors in March.

Meanwhile, the Bulls, reenergized by the trade deadline acquisitions of John Salmons and Brad Miller, finished the regular season on a 12–4 spurt to qualify for the 7th seed in the Eastern Conference. Chicago's late push contributed to Rose's winning Rookie of the Year, joining Michael Jordan (1985) and Elton Brand (2000) as the only Bulls to do so. He was also the first number-one draft pick since LeBron James to win the award. He averaged 16.8 points on 47.5% field goal shooting, 6.3 assists (leading all rookies) and 3.9 rebounds per game and was also named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team.[3] In his playoff debut against the defending champion Boston Celtics, Rose recorded 36 points (tying Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's NBA record for points scored by a rookie in his playoff debut set 1970), 11 assists, and 4 rebounds as the Bulls prevailed in a 105–103 overtime win on the road. Rose became the second player in NBA history to record 35 points and 10 assists in his playoff debut, after Chris Paul. Rose averaged 19.7 points on 47.5% shooting, 6.3 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game in his playoff debut, as the Bulls were defeated by the Celtics in 7 games 2009–10 season: All Star bid Rose's sophomore season started off on a bad note when he injured his ankle in his first preseason game. Rose would go on to miss the rest of the preseason.

Rose did start the Bulls season opener against the San Antonio Spurs but played limited minutes in a win. Rose's ankle bothered him for most of November, but as his ankle healed, his game improved greatly. On January 28, 2010, Derrick Rose was elected to his first career All Star Game as a reserve for the Eastern Conference, making him the first Bulls player to make the All-Star game since Michael Jordan in 1998. Rose had eight points, four assists and three steals in his first game as an All-Star. The Bulls once again made the playoffs in the 2009–10 season finishing with a 41–41 record. In the playoffs Rose averaged 26.8 points and 7.2 assists, but the Bulls still lost in five games to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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On April 13, 2010, Rose scored 39 points against the Celtics, making 15–22 field goals, and 9–10 free throws.

According to a January 2010 report by ESPN, Rose had the 4th best selling jersey in the league.

2010–11 season: MVP season

Rose led the Bulls to 62 wins, and the best record overall during the 2010-2011 NBA season.

On October 30, 2010, in the Bulls' second game of the season, Rose scored 39 points in a 101–91 win against the Detroit Pistons. Two days after, Rose contributed 13 assists, helping Luol Deng score his career high 40 points in a win against the Portland Trail Blazers.

On December 10, 2010, Rose scored 29 points and had 9 assists, leading the Bulls to their first victory over the Los Angeles Lakers since December 19, 2006.

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On January 17, 2011, Derrick Rose finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists recording his first career triple-double against the Memphis Grizzlies.

On January 27, 2011, Rose was announced as a starting guard on the 2011 NBA AllStar Team for the East squad.

On February 17, 2011, in the Bulls' last game before the All-Star break, Derrick Rose recorded a regular-season career high 42 points, along with 8 assists and 5 rebounds, as the Bulls beat the San Antonio Spurs 109-99.

On March 26, 2011, Rose had a career high 17 assists, along with 30 points, and 3 rebounds, in a 95-87 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.

At the end of the 2010–11 NBA season the Bulls finished with a league leading record of 62-20.[74] Their 60+ wins was the Bulls' first since the 1997-98 season and sixth 60+ win in the team's franchise history.

At season's end, Rose became only the third player in the past thirty years of the NBA to record 2,000 points and 600 assists in a single season. The other two players were LeBron James and Michael Jordan.

On May 3, 2011, Rose, at the age of 22, was named the NBA Most Valuable Player, surpassing Wes Unseld as the youngest player in league history to receive the award (Unseld won the award during the 1968-69 NBA season at age 23).

Rose joined Michael Jordan as the only players to receive the award in Chicago Bulls history.

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The following pages will have a photo essay by Erica M. Brooks entitled, “Life More Abundanlty Celebration; The Growth Continues.” on the City of East St. Louis’ Inaugural Activities held May 11, 201 to commemorate the Honorable Mayor Alvin Parks Inauguration to his second term.

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"The Way I See It"

By William Bishop III Time to Build an Eastside Community / Youth Center My Name is William Bishop III. I live in Springfield, Illinois. My Family and I moved here in 1972. Mr. Reeves asked me if I wanted to write for the Voice. He and I have known each other for quite some time. I jumped at the opportunity to voice my opinion concerning issues that affect my community. He asked me to write about topics as I see it! So, I guess, I will start by dealing with an issue that is dear to my heart! The absence of a Modern Community / Youth Center located on Springfield Illinois’s Eastside Community.

I think, it was the Hasara administration, who conducted the first study (2002 RUDAT) that Identified needs in the Eastside community. The study specifically stated that there was an urgent need for a community/youth center in this area.

That study, and each study conducted since then have come to the same conclusion. The Eastside community needs a Modern Community / Youth center. Senator Dick Durbin even secured some funds to develop a community center, but eastside politics got in the way and he eventually had to give the money to another project or risk losing it all together. Heard of Southwind Park and Erin’s Pavilion! You have all type of facility’s out west, the new YMCA, skateboard parks, sledding hill’s and parks to walk your dogs, but nothing on the end of the town where the kids are in need the most.

It’s time that our community spends some of these public funds on projects on the eastside community. At this point in time there are two centers located on the eastside, The Sangamon County Jail and the Sangamon County Youth Detention Center! The lack of a Modern Facility means that the kids are growing up; hanging on the street corners, just ride through the eastside! You learn street things on street corners. Thus you have kids growing up wanting to be gangsters instead of student athletes!

What’s wrong with building a 25 million dollar facility, that would spur economic development, connect east with west (developing the Stanford street extension) and provide a place for all children in the Springfield community to come and learn something other than street degrees and teardrops! My friend Dameon Johnson has conducted the research and planning for such a project. He has contacted everyone from the feds to city officials, all say the idea is tremendous but!

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The project would bring 10 million a year to local hotels and restaurants. The project would create over 300 construction jobs. The project would turn Springfield in to a Youth sports Mecca. What’s wrong with investing into our youth? With the rash of violence that has erupted in our community, it’s time to develop something that we can utilize to train youth and lead them in a positive direction in life. It’s time to build the All World Sports Complex and Community Center!

It’s time for the Fed’s, Sangamon County and Springfield City government to work together to get this project done!

We are not accepting no for an answer!

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When things are out of focus or hard to see, having the right tools can clear things up.

Lincoln Land Community College can bring your unclear visions of the future into sharp focus.

Register now for summer and fall classes. www.llcc.edu

“You are in control of your own life and your own destiny. If you change your “mind”, you can change the way you think.

By changing the way you think, you can rise to your fullest potential.”

Afi Camara

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Senate vs. House Annual Baseball Game April 13, 2011

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Omega Psi Phi “Party With A Purpose” May 6, 2011

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Eastern Star Tea April 30, 2011

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Delta Sigma Theta New Sorors April 23, 2011

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29th Annual LaPetite Delta Finale April 30, 2011

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SULG Health Awareness Luncheon April 30, 2011

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Entrepreneur Showcase, Bloomington, Il April 30, 2011

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Union Baptist Church (1871-2011) “Bridging the Past; Building for our Future” 140 Years of Continuous Service to the Lord

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Union Baptist church was organized in November 1871 by seven persons who withdrew from Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Because they were united in thought and action, they therefore named the church, "Union".

The ground for the original church was donated by one of the Deacons J. H. Brooks. The first edifice was built on the corner of 12th and Mason Streets. Union Baptist Church became an instrumental factor in the community for Christian living and fellowship.

From November of 1871 until the present, Union Baptist Church has had 15 pastors.

Above: ―Under the direction of Thelma Dammons, ―the Senior Choir of Union Baptist Church brings inspiration to all who hear them. Their singing is one of the cherished traditions of the church. Mrs. Dorothy Logan Foster is their accompanist.‖ Source Capital City News, Circa 1948

In 1940, under the second pastorate of Reverend S. C. Manual, the 12th Pastor, the church moved to a new location to make way for a Federal Housing Project. Union was then built on its present site located at 14th and Monroe Streets. Union moved onward increasing membership, growing spiritually and financially.

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Above: ―Where there is no vision, the people perish,‖ quotes the minister from Book of Books. And the Gospel Choir, directed by Ruby Harveson, takes up the theme and floods the auditorium with the haunting music of the spiritual -- that mystic challenge of the soul to all that threatens it.‖ Source: Capital City News, Circa 1948.

On November 4, 1945, Dr. S. C. Manual went home to be with the Lord.

In January 1946, Reverend J. Alfred Wilson, with wife Annie L., came to Union as its Pastor. All departments flourished in their Christian duties. Soul-saving and Christian growth formed the nucleus of the church. Dr. Wilson was quite active in the denominational work of the church. He serving as both President of Baptist General State Convention and Moderator of Wood River Baptist District Association.

Left: ―Dynamic Preacher, Progressive Pastor, Everyday Exponent of the Golden Rule,‖ is a ten word description of the Rev. J. Alfred Wilson , Miniser, Union Baptist Church.‖ Source: Capital City News, Circa 1948

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Under Dr. Wilson, the Church was remodeled. Modern equipment was installed, such as musical instruments, central heating and air conditioning. Also, additional property was purchased, as well as a bus for church transportation. On September 19, 1976 Dr. J. Alfred Wilson answered the call and went home to be with the Lord.

On January 15, 1968, Reverend Rudolph S. Shoultz, was unanimously called to be our next Pastor. Dr. Shoultz, his wife, Vera, and two children, Tony and Michelle moved into the parsonage on April 1, 1968.

Dr. Shoultz, a great leader and administrator filled with the Holy Ghost, wasted no time taking union to greater heights. In June 1970, ground was broken for construction of a fellowship hall/educational facility and remodeling began on the 1941 sanctuary structure.

In 1968,Dr. Shoultz help organize the Black Action Movement, a Springfield coalition of black community organizations founded in 1968 "to create a unity aimed at strengthening the bargaining position of the Black Community so as to solve its economic, political and social problems." Rudolph S. Shoultz, pastor of Union Baptist Church, and Charles Young were the primary organizers.

By-laws, minutes, letters, financial records, and news clippings documenting the philosophy, structure, activities, goals, and concerns of the Black Action Movement; its independence from the Black Egyptians; and its views on militant action. Activities documented include investigations concerning fights and expulsions of black students at Southeast High School; protests against the Springfield Housing Authority's hiring and rental practices; sponsorship of a Little League baseball team; and use of the Spirit, a black newspaper, as its official voice.

In 1970, Dr. Shoultz opened the UBC Day Care Center and in February 1973 started the Radio Broadcast on WTAX-1240AM. Again, additional property east of the church to the corner of 15th and Monroe Streets was purchased for offstreet parking. A playground was added and all additions were paid off and dedicated on November 5, 1979. Union Baptist Church paid off in nine years and nine months, the two hundred fifty thousand dollar loan for the Educational Building originally set up for a 20-year mortgage. The mortgage was burned in 1982. In addition, the Music Ministry was reorganized into one mass choir, the Voices of Union. Through the efforts of Dr. Shoultz, Union Baptist Church were able to spread the good news of the Gospel in his native land of Jamaica, West Indies, in 1987. In 1988, the Soup Kitchen Ministry began which evolved into a food pantry. On March 10, 1991 the church through a partnership with Boston Capital Investors built Union Baptist Plaza, a twenty-four (24) unit Senior Citizen low-rise apartment complex.

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On March 3, 2000 Dr. Rudolph S. Shoultz went home to be with the Lord.

Reverend T. Ray McJunkins accepted the call as pastor of Union Baptist Church on July 31, 2002. Becoming only the fourth pastor in 100 years, Pastor Mcjunkins, wife Dietra, and daughter, Chelsea, moved to Springfield in August 2002.

Below: Pastor Ray McJunkins Pastor Mac, as he is so affectionately called, had large foot steps to fill.

However, the Springfield community quickly discovered that Pastor McJunkins foot steps were ordered by God. He immediately picked up where Dr. Shoultz left off.

Purchasing the old Washington property for additional parking and continuing with project 2000, the church's building plans. Pastor McJunkins restructured the expansion plans for a new 40,000 sq. ft. facility to minister, not only to the Union membership, but to the community as well. In addition, he has enhanced the role of Christen Education and thus the Church is again growing both spiritually and physically. The building program saw the fruits of its labor when the first service was held in the new Sanctuary on December 25, 2005.

The Union Church has now moved from a traditional worship to a combination of traditional and contemporary praise celebration. The Union Baptist Church now takes up one block within the heart of the eastside community. To honor the three pastors prior to him, Pastor McJunkins named each major area of the 56,500 sq. ft. facility the following: ď ś The 1941 structure in now the Dr. S. C. Manual Memorial Chapel.

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ď ś The new facility has class rooms now named the Dr. J. Alfred Wilson Educational Wing. ď ś The 1970 structure is now the Dr. Rudolph S. Shoultz Fellowship Hall.

The McJunkins administration is a community focus of "Meeting the needs of the total man, mind body and soul." It is from this mission statement that all UBC ministries revolve.

After over 135 years of service to the community, Union Baptist Church, a landmark of faith, still marches on cherishing the past, affirming the present, building for the future; bringing aid to the suffering, comfort to the bereaved and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to the community.

Join the celebration Sunday, May 15, 2011, 11:00am until 2:00pm at 1405 E. Monroe Street, Springfield, IL 62703, Phone: (217) 544-8115.

Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/unionbaptistchurch.

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Words of Inspiration, Inspired MOTHER

I am your mother, a proud Black individual, strong, woman. I love God, church and my pastor. I am a smart intelligent loving woman…. I am mother.

I have taught you right from wrong and I have taught you to be strong and I have taught you to give ad forgive…. I am mother.

I raised ya’ll the best I can and taught ya’ll how to be a woman or am man…. I am mother.

When ya’ll were young as kids I taught ya’ll have to respect people like you should…. I am mother.

I have taught ya’ll that we are family and God is Lord…. I am mother.

I have taught ya’ll al about Sunday school and the preacher man. I have taught you how to stay out of trouble and to see about one another… I am mother.

I’m quite sure they will understand that I am your mother and a beautiful woman I am I always will be, always am…. I am mother So when you tell someone who I am, just say, “Mother.”

Joya may be contacted at iamjoya@gmail.com

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Give God What’s Due to Him In All That You Do No more part-time lovers, God is looking for a remnant of people that will love him with all thine heart, with all thy soul and all thy might ( deut 6:5 )(KJV).

God wants it all today!!! It’s impossible to keep coming to the Lord’s table to be fed and not leave something for him. We can’t be takers but givers. We were created to worship the Lord and to praise him.

The word of God says he inhabits the praises of his people… that's us. We can't rob God of what he desires of us as believers.

Malachi 3:8 states will a man rob God? But yet you have robbed him in tithes and offering? God has blessed us with jobs, businesses, provision for college, homes, cars, spouses, children etc., but yet we have held back what he has blessed us with. What would happen if you even gave God a tenth of your 24hr day? God is the air that we breathe. Without his breath we are without life. How long will you be halted between two opinions? Either you will serve God or serve Baal ( 1 kings 18:21). We can't cut a side deal with God. Either we are all the way in or all the way out… NO SIDE DEALS!!! God wants all of me and all of you. Where would you go if the Lord required your soul today?

Is your heart pure before the Lord? Are your hands clean? We are in a time of selfexamination… EXAM TIME!! What will the Lord find in you on that great day? Will it be love, forgiveness, hate, un-forgiveness, jealousy, envy, strife or every evil work? We must continue on a daily basis to stay in the presence of God which means spending time with him, worshipping, praising, and reading his word. Then will be able to gain direction, instructions and strategies in theses perilous times that we are in. Amen. Please don't get it twisted… you are not waiting on God he is waiting on you. All of you TODAY! I want to encourage all my readers to examine your heart and see if you will pass the test ? Are you making vows to God that you have not been keeping? What will you say on that great and final day? NO MORE EXCUSES.

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If this ministry has been a blessing to you please write me at 3489 Torres St Navarre, Florida 32563 or e-mail me at jenniechalden@yahoo.com and tell me your testimonies. Also, if the Lord speaks to you to sow a seed into this anointing on my life please obey the Lord. He will bless you for your obedience and your sacrifice.

Please join me every Wednesday at 5am (cst) for Prayer and Intercession as we pray for the nations, America, troops, Body of Christ, marriages, children & youth, the addicted, abuse etc....

I also take personal prayer requests. I have been seeing the Spirit of Lord move on our behalf in an awesome way over the prayer line.

I encourage all prayer warriors and intercessor to join with me. Also, each Tuesday before we fast from 6am-6pm( seek the Lord for personal instructions).

Thanks to all those that have supported this ministry through financial gifts, prayer, fasting and intercession.

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Author Jo Lena Johnson on a mission for Good ... Absolute Good!

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live, learn, love and laugh Endangered Species I was asked what kind of man I like. Approached by one, he said, ―I wonder if I’m your type?‖ In the end, that man has to be my friend.

Do you meet my needs, or are you an anomaly?

Tall in stature? Don’t matter if your character is weak, refusing to do better. How can we be what you can’t see? Why in the hell do you chase after me? I need a man that can look past my ass…One that represents the epitome of class. What type of man do you see for me? The answer: one that treats me with dignity!

We can laugh. We can cry. We can keep it real. But never will he pry. Why?!

Because, he won’t have to. This brother makes me want to open my womb…to him, I hang on his every word…sampling his flavor on my lips…what permeates my mind causes my hips to dip like snuff in a tin can…We go together like a kid in the sand.

What kind of man do I like? You see, he’s already out there…somewhere near, but far. He’s lived, and loved, and aware of his faults. No longer lookin’ for a ―JUMP OFF.‖ He allows ME TO BE ME…bangin’ body, confident with sensitivity. He’s far from insecure. He’s quite the opposite; I’m sure.

His hands and fingers are weathered and thick…perfect for handling me, because I’M ONE HELLUVA CHIC! At attention I stand, because he is the EPITOME OF A MAN that talks to me instead of at me, not with lies-but the truth…like Ruth, I have to stay in for the fight, stay on my knees you see, because the man I want is an endangered species.

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Out with the Old… in with the New.

By Raaw’el Letrice Ware The Center Book Store and Research Center hosted its first annual Garage Sale Fundraiser Saturday, May 8, 2011. The weather was perfect.

Raaw’el Letrice Ware spear-headed a much needed garage sale with the owner and longtime friend of the Center Book Store & Research Facility, Mr. Idris Qadeem. Arthur Harris-Choma, promoter of X-treme Fuel Treatment joined as they displayed their wears of tools, gadgets and clothing on the front lawn of the Center Book Store located at the 1200 block of Laurel Street.

There were a variety of items for sell including things for home repair such as paint, tools, and home décor. There were men’s dress clothes and shoes as well as Coogie jeans, Mecca, PePe, Sean John and Old Navy. Women dresses and two piece suites with tags still on them were for sell for as little as $8. Authentic Jordan’s barely worn (average cost of $80- $130) were available for ONLY $15$20. The list is so long for the variety that I can’t even mention everything but rest assured boys and girls baby clothing, books for as little as fifty cent, and Brand new jewelry was also available.

The garage sale was not just an average garage sale which some people may have thought. The idea was to promote De-cluttering the home- mind, body, and spirit. Sometimes we hold on to stuff that we will never use again when someone else could use it.

Personally, I realize how truly blessed my family and friends are as we worked for days gathering the things that were of the best quality so we could offer them to others and raise money to support much need programs in our community.

When we take the time and hard work to cleanse the home- our temples- and our body, it helps to bring about a since of peace and accomplishment.

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The Center Book Store and Research Center has allowed others a space to host reading and discussion groups for several year. In addition, for over a year the Center has held an open family style meal each Sunday for Friends and family at no cost. The gathering at the dinner table on Sundays is a fellowship were people of different age, ethnicities, and religions have come together to break bread and enjoy a scrumptious and nutritious almost fully organic meal prepared mostly by Mr. Choma but from time to time the family and friend will contribute a dish.

The Center Book Store also carries a wide variety of books, body products and information.

RISE – Rock It Science Empowerment is a youth and family empowerment program created by Raaw’el. It was created in 2009 to help individual, families and communities. The motto is ―Promoting Positive Words for Positive Change –Building Bridges & Tearing down Strongholds”. The Mission of RISE is: To use creative strategies via presentations, spoken word, hip hop

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praise dance, educational tools, and broadcasting to share positive words, thoughts and ideas for the purpose of encouragement, education, and empowerment healthier choices that lead to productive lifestyles in youth and adults but we don’t just want to talk about it we are striving to be positive examples.

Together our team appreciated the support and donations we received. Our next Fund Raiser Garage Sale is coming soon. RISE works together with various non-for -profits to help promote their fund raiser events.

For more information ab0ut RISE visit www.risewithus.biz as we construct our site, ourselves and our community.

For more information about the Center Book Store or on how you can save on fuel, please contact Raaw’el on Face book at www.facebook.com/raawel or call Choma 217-638-0319.

Raaw’el may also be contacted at: raawwords@yahoo.com.

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By Nicole Marie Melton

Singer-songwriter Phoebe Snow died yesterday due to complications of a brain hemorrhage that she suffered in January 2010. Snow was best known for her hit, "Poetry Man," which earned her a Best New Artist Grammy nomination in 1975.

Throughout Snow's career, she released 16 albums, and several popular tracks including "Love Makes a Woman" and "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy." She won several awards for her work in music including a MAC Lifetime Achievement Award, the Cultural Achievement Award for New York, the New York Music Award, and the Clio Award for her work singing in TV commercials. Despite her impressive musical achievements, Snow but her career on hold to care for her disabled daughter, Valerie.

"The loss of this unique and untouchable voice is incalculable," Snow's manager, Sue Cameron told the Associated Press. "Phoebe was one of the brightest, funniest and most talented singer-songwriters of all time."

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Plus-Size Model, Mia Amber Davis, Dies at 36

Plus-size model and actress Mia Amber Davis has died at the age of 36 after undergoing a routine knee surgery, reports TMZ. According to Davis' husband, Michael Yard, the vivacious model and actress (she starred in the comedy, "Road Trip," in 2000) had gone to a Los Angeles hospital to correct an ongoing knee problem obtained from years of playing college basketball. Sadly, she never returned.

Yard says he spoke to his wife the morning of her surgery and she was in good spirits. Yet hours later her cousin called to tell him Davis had passed away. "I want to know what happened to my wife," he told TMZ. Davis is best remembered for modeling for Ashley Stewart and being the face of ESSENCE Music Festival headliner Jill Scott's Butterfly Bra. She was also a fierce advocate for fuller figured women. She once appeared on CNN to discuss obesity in America. "The media doesn't showcase overweight people, overweight women are not seen in Hollywood," she said. "It's like, why are we being targets but we're invisible everywhere else?"

Rest in peace, Mia Amber Davis.

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MC Hammer Talks Social Media Interests, Getting through Bankruptcy and Web Influence

By Janell Hazelwood

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Above: Digital enthusiast uses social media to diversify and connect with new audiences.

He had hits from the late '80s to the '90s, from "U Can't Touch This" to "2 Legit 2 Quit," setting records as the first hip-hop artist to hit diamond-selling (10 million units sold) status. He created a multimillion-dollar brand, from those infamous Hammer pants and dance moves to TV shows, a record-label executive post and a Christian ministry. He's been in the news for his financial missteps, from dealing with bankruptcy to recent tax woes. And through it all, there were moments where Stanley "MC Hammer" Burrell thrived and others where he had to survive. Now, he has taken his business and his brand into new arenas by learning to diversify.

Most recently, Hammer has reinvented himself as a social networking mogul. With an audience of millions (more than 2 million on Twitter alone) and a passion for the possibilities of social media platforms, he is often tapped to share his wisdom at prestigious universities such as Oxford, Stanford and Wharton. Calling social media a "tool of empowerment," he believes in the power of its influence and the importance of being able to mold and control the message you want to send to the world, whether it's political, social, or about one's business. "People are able to mobilize, communicate and get the message out," says Hammer, who is slated to be a speaker at this year's Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference May 22-25. "And local governments can no longer control the messaging. As long as you can control the messaging, you can create a perception of what life is, or even of who a person is, with social media."

In 2008, the Oakland, California, native found a way to combine social media, dance and music via DanceJam, an exclusive Web community where one can watch, learn, and highlight their talents among others in the industry. "It was the culmination of some particular thoughts I had over the years in watching the social Web start to develop, in particular video-on-demand on sites such as YouTube," he says. "I had an idea of a concept of how I'd like to see that on the Web, and that's how DanceJam was created."

Further adding to his portfolio, Hammer founded a mixed martial arts company, Alchemist Management, in 2010, tapping into a passion for the sports business that began when he worked as a youngster in the front office of the Oakland As. "I've always seen the energy around sports, and sports fans are a tremendous opportunity from a business standpoint." With Alchemist, Hammer is able to manage, market, promote, and brand-build for fighters.

As an award-winning music industry veteran, Hammer has learned a thing or three about resilience and persistence, especially when it comes to finances. Infamously known for amassing millions and then having to file for bankruptcy in 1996--and reportedly having recent problems with the IRS -- Hammer attests to relying on solid business principles and forward movement to stay in the game. What got him through? "Faith first, and then a true understanding of business second," he says. "There was never a stopping point.

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career, with the building of relationships, getting into new ventures and using the skills he learned throughout his career to amass a multimillion-dollar fortune, he was able to keep the momentum going, he adds.

So what's next for Hammer? With music always being part of what he does, he says fans can look for more Web-related projects, including a one based around utilizing the total potential of social media and social Web. He's also continuing growing Alchemist Management, having recently signed two new fighters to the roster.

Hammer's also reinvented himself as a social networking mogul (with more than 2 million Twitter followers), carving out yet another niche in his diverse career with high impact and visibility. An avid reader and sought-after speaker , Hammer knows a thing or two about expanding one's knowledge of how to connect with audiences and use technology as a lucrative tool. BlackEnterprise.com caught up with the social media whiz on his favorite book picks for social media success.

Engage: The Complete Guide for Brands and Businesses to Build, Cultivate and Measure Success in the New Web by Brian Solis (Wiley; $25)

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Competing on Analytics: The New Science of Winning by Thomas Davenport and Jeanne Harris (Harvard Business School Press; $30)

Influencer: The Power to Change Anything by Kerry Patterson (McGraw-Hill; $27)

A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future by Daniel H. Pink (Riverhead Trade; $15)

Trust Agents: Using the Web to Build Influence, Improve Reputation, and Earn Trust by Chris Brogan (Wiley; $17)

Want to hear MC Hammer share more of his business and social media insights? Meet him in Atlanta at Black Enterprise's Entrepreneurs Conference May 22-25, 2011. Visit blackenterprise.com/ec for more details.

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AP-Gfk poll: Obama approval hits 60 percent

President Obama greets well wishers after stepping off Air Force One at Austin Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, Texas, Tuesday, May 10, 2011, for Democratic National Committee campaign fundraising events. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

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WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama's approval rating has hit its highest point in two years -- 60 percent -- and more than half of Americans now say he deserves to be re-elected, according to an Associated Press-GfK poll taken after U.S. forces killed al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden.

In worrisome signs for Republicans, the president's standing improved not just on foreign policy but also on the economy, and independent Americans -- a key voting bloc in the November 2012 presidential election -- caused the overall uptick in support by sliding back to Obama after fleeing for much of the past two years. Comfortable majorities of the public now call Obama a strong leader who will keep America safe.

Nearly three-fourths -- 73 percent -- also now say they are confident that Obama can effectively handle terrorist threats. And he improved his standing on Afghanistan, Iraq and the United States' relationships with other countries.

Despite a sluggish recovery from the Great Recession, 52 percent of Americans now approve of Obama's stewardship of the economy, giving him his best rating on that issue since the early days of his presidency; 52 percent also now like how he's handling the nation's stubbornly high 9 percent unemployment.

The economy remains Americans' top issue. Impressions of the nation's fiscal outlook have improved following last Friday's positive jobs report, which showed American companies are on a hiring spree. More people now say that the economy got better in the past month and that it's likely to continue doing so in the coming year. Also, more Americans -- 45 percent, up from 35 percent in March -- say the country is headed in the right direction; still about half -- 52 percent -- say it's on the wrong track, meaning Obama still has work to do to convince a restive public to stay with the status quo.

Some have seen enough to know they'll stick with him. "I was happy about bin Laden," says Brenda Veckov, 42, of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. "I put my fists in the air. To me, it was just a little bit of closure for the United States." "The president made the right decisions on this one. And I will vote for him again." Not everyone has such an optimistic view of Obama.

"I'm very concerned" about the country, says 56-year-old Susan Demarest in Snellville, Georgia, who didn't support the Democrat last time and won't this time. "I'm in my 50s and I worry that I'm not going to be able to retire at a reasonable age and enjoy the end of my life because of Medicare and Social Security and the debt of the country." Still, she says Obama doesn't carry all of the blame.

Obama's overall political boost comes at an important time. He is embarking on his reelection campaign and is in the early days of a debate with Republicans who control the House of Representatives over raising the country's debt limit. But it's unclear how long Obama's strengthened standing will last in the aftermath of bin Laden's death.

Americans say they overwhelmingly approve of the military's handling of the risky nighttime mission in Abbottabad, Pakistan. But it hasn't changed public opinion on the war in Afghanistan; most still are opposed to it, and a big majority favors Obama's plan 140

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to withdraw all combat troops by 2014. Overall, Obama's approval rating is up slightly from 53 percent in March and a 47 percent low point following last fall's midterm congressional elections in which Republicans won control of the House and gained seats in the Senate. It was 64 percent in May 2009, just months after he was sworn into office.

Also, 53 percent now say he deserves to be re-elected; 43 percent say he should be fired, making it the first time in an AP-GfK poll that more people say he should get a second term than not.

"I have the impression that Barack Obama works really hard for Americans and that I see his leadership as something that should be continued," says independent voter Allison Kaplan, 25, in Austin, Texas, who voted for Obama in 2008. She praises the administration for handling bin Laden's raid well -- "the way that it happened was the correct way" -- and it reinforced her support of the president.

Nearly two-thirds of Americans who call themselves political independents now approve of him; only about half did in March. They were critical to Obama's 2008 victory but many had fled as his administration increased government spending and passed a sweeping health care overhaul. They could just as easily turn away again between now and next fall.

Bryan Noonan, 23, of Hampstead, New Hampshire, is one of those independents. He backed Obama in 2008 and is likely to vote for the president again, given the other options. "I haven't been real impressed by the Republicans," he says. He doesn't hold Obama accountable for the sluggish economy or rising gas prices, issues Noonan says seem "out of his hands. It's not like there's a magic solution." Noonan likes Obama's foreign policies and applauds the killing of bin Laden, saying: "I was pretty much relieved, happy to hear that we got him. The president absolutely deserves credit."

Among the poll's other findings: -- Sixty-nine percent say Obama will keep America safe, up from 61 percent in March; 65 percent call him a "strong leader," up from 57 percent.

-- Sixty-three percent say Obama cares about people like them; 63 percent also say that he understands the problems of ordinary Americans.

-- Sixty-three percent view Obama favorably, up from 59 percent in March.

Still, his re-election is far from certain. And there are warning signs in the poll.

--Nearly two-thirds of people -- 61 percent -- disapprove of his handling on gas prices, even though there's little a president can do about them.

--Less than half give him positive marks on dealing with the federal budget deficit or taxes, two big upcoming issues.

The Associated Press-GfK Poll was conducted May 5-9 by GfK Roper Public Affairs and Corporate Communications. It involved landline and cellphone interviews with 1,001 adults nationwide and has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 4.2 percentage points.

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The Rapper Common was a Guest at the White House.

The hip-hop performer and mainstream movie actor with a longtime reputation for his star power and socially conscious lyrics was among a number of artists appearing with first lady Michelle Obama on Wednesday, May 11th at a White House event honoring poetry. Conservatives including Karl Rove, Sean Hannity and Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin are lambasting the invitation based on Common's 2007 performance on HBO's "Def Poetry," which is now posted on YouTube. In "Letter to the Law," Common rapped about government corruption and police abuse in the inner city. He also criticized President George W. Bush's involvement in Iraq. "Burn a Bush 'cos for peace he no push no button," the artist said. "Killing over oil and grease/ no weapons of destruction. Palin was the first to bring the clip national attention when she sent a Twitter message linking to a story about the poetry in the right-leaning website The Daily Caller.

"Oh lovely, White House," Palin said.

By Tuesday night, Rove, Bush's top adviser turned Fox News commentator, was on the record calling Common "a thug." Hannity used his Fox program to accuse Common of previous drug use and promiscuity. Common has appeared in films such as "Terminator Salvation," "Date Night" and, most recently, "Just Wright" with Queen Latifah. He also starred in a Gap ad, "Peace, Love, the Gap."

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48 Women Raped Every Hour in Congo

Amuda Sikujuwa, 53, seen at her temporary home in Goma, Congo, on Friday, Feb. 20, 2009, was raped in 2003 by soldiers who killed her husband and two children (AP Photo/T.J. Kirkpatrick)

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DAKAR, Senegal (AP) -- The African nation of Congo has been called the worst place on earth to be a woman. A new study released Wednesday shows that it's even worse than previously thought: 1,152 women are raped every day, a rate equal to 48 per hour.

That rate is 26 times more than the previous estimate of 16,000 rapes reported in one year by the United Nations.

Michelle Hindin, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins' Bloomberg School of Public Health who specializes in gender-based violence, said the rate could be even higher. The source of the data, she noted, is a survey that was conducted through face-to-face interviews, and people are not always forthcoming about the violence they have suffered when talking to strangers.

"The numbers are astounding," she said.

Congo, a nation of 70 million people that is equal in size to Western Europe, has been plagued by decades of war. Its vast forests are rife with militias that have systematically used rape to destroy communities.

The analysis, which will be published in the American Journal of Public Health in June, shows that more than 400,000 women had been raped in Congo during a 12-month period between 2006 and 2007.

On average 29 Congolese women out of every 1,000 had been raped nationwide.

That means that even in the parts of Congo that are not affected by the war, a woman is 58 times more likely to be raped than a woman in the United States, where the annual rate is 0.5 per 1,000 women.

Previous estimates of the number of rapes were derived from police and health center reports in the nation's troubled east where the conflict is concentrated.

The authors of the study used figures from a government health survey and pooled data from across the country.

The highest frequency of rape was found in North Kivu, the province most affected by the conflict, where 67 women per 1,000 had been raped at least once.

"The message is important and clear: Rape in (Congo) has metastasized amid a climate of impunity, and has emerged as one of the great human crises of our time," said Michael VanRooyen, the director of the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative. Source: The Associated Press.

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Is Malachi York is Innocent?

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Diplomat Tried on MLK Day

By Mery Ahab Em Zdahuti

Dr. Malachi York is a political prisoner currently being held in the worst prison in the United States. Like many other political prisoners, Dr. Malachi York posed a threat to the status quo by what he stood for.

As Founder of the Nuwaupian movement, Dr. York stresses the importance of thinking for one’s self and questioning everything by submitting to only facts. What made him seen as a threat was his ability to bring all different people together from all walks of life. One of Dr. Malachi York’s accomplishments is Tama Re of the West. Tama Re of the West is a land which was built in Eatonton, Georgia located in Putnam County, fashioned after the Egyptian (African) empire. In the mid-90s, thousands of Nuwaupians congregated and erected their own land (Tama Re of the West) which would serve as their own cultural mecca. People traveled from around the world to visit. It was in the process of being turned into an amusement park as well as a residence.

Every year it grew with new structures and more people. This was seen as a threat by the officials of the town of Eatonton, Georgia. On many occasions, officials in Eatonton tried to shut down the land and stop the movement. Dr. Malachi York was slandered on many occasions being called a black militant and many other unfounded statements. However, all were welcomed to Tama Re and into the organization. Although there are predominantly more blacks in the organization, members included all races. Dr. York’s goal was to be as accurate of the culture and facts, meanwhile showing love to all the children of the world which all come from African blood, as proven by science. Despite having open arms to everyone, not everyone had open arms to Nuwaupians. Nuwaupians were met with hostility shortly after their arrival to the predominately white town. Nuwaupians stated that they were being harassed and targeted by local officials since they arrived in Putnam County. Some reported discrimination of jobs and poor medical treatment at local hospitals. The town of Eatonton did not accept the peaceful Nuwaupians who brought much money by way of tourism into the otherwise little 146

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known town. Dr. Malachi York would spend years battling zoning violations and attempts to shut down the development of the Nuwaupian land. Dr. York would eventually be victorious after years of tedious filing of paperwork and trips to court.

However, those threatened by Dr. Malachi York, namely Sheriff Sills was not willing to give up so easily. Tama-Re of the West stood in the way of many business plans of town Officials and major business companies who were interested in the 476 acres of land purchased by the Nuwaupians. Five days after Dr. Malachi York’s court victory, Sheriff Sills led an invasion of Tama-Re and it has been the biggest raid in American history to date; over 200 officials, local, state and federal, armed with guns, tear gas, helicopters and body bags. Fortunately, no one was reported killed. At the time of the raid mostly women and children were present as most of the men were out working. Sheriff Sills justified his actions stating that he thought the Nuwaupians were stockpiling weapons. Children reported having guns pointed at them and being searched by armed officials. Some children were even illegally taken into custody during the raid. Of course, no illegal weapons were found. At that time, Dr. York no longer lived on the land but resided an hour away in Athens, Georgia, located in Clarke county. His personal house was also being searched at the same time. Though nothing illegal was found, Dr. York was seized while on a shopping errand in the parking lot of a K-Mart store located in Milledgevile, where he and three women were dragged out of a car after having their car windows smashed in by police. He and the three women were thrown to the floor and dragged over the broken glass. Dr. York showed his Diplomatic ID which was ignored.

Dr. Malachi York was then accused of child molestation. An investigation into the case showed that there were no children involved in the case. And there was no physical evidence of any kind to support those charges. Later the government key witness came forward to confess that she lied on the stand because she was being influenced by the government officials and she was scared. This government key witness, Habibah Washington, gave in detail the entire outline of her part in the plot to take down Dr. York.

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Washington states on the record how Jacob York also helped plot against his father.

Dr. York’s son, Jacob York, made his feelings known of hatred towards his father after Jacob’s mother dying of a brain aneurism. Jacob blamed his father for her death because he felt a broken heart was the cause. For years, Jacob held those feelings of anger for Dr. Malachi York.

Finally, Jacob decided that he wanted to get rid of Dr. Malachi York after Dr. York refused to fund Jacob’s music career. Jacob was the producer for the music of Lil’ Kim, Junior Mafia and other music which went against what Dr. Malachi York taught. For that reason, financing his son’s music career would be a conflict of interest.

Already having ill feelings towards his father, this resulted in increase discontent and Jacob decided to help Sheriff Sills bring down his father since they had a common enemy. Habibah Washington explains in detail why Jacob suggested child molestation. Washington stated that Jacob thought child molestation would be the most difficult thing for someone to defend them self against. Washington gives a detail account about a trip financed

by Jacob where Jacob tries to convince people to help bring down his father.

Washington states that Jacob York was doing favors for many of the people involved. Washington stated that she became too involved and went along with everything after being threatened to have her children taken away or possibly becoming a codefendant if she did not assist in Dr. York’s demise. She also stated being offered monetary incentives. She stated that some of the witnesses were offered immunity for crimes they committed along with offers of money, movie deals and a list of other things. She stated that Jacob was already on the payroll of the FBI and was using the money to lure potential accomplices. Many people refused Jacob’s offer and some of those same people came forward to expose the plot by first hand testimonies. It is stated to the public by government officials that there were hundreds of witnesses who opposed Dr. Malachi York, yet, when put on the stand, most of the witnesses said that Dr. Malachi York was innocent.

There were actually only eleven witnesses that supported the government and all

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stories conflicted at times, eventually some recanted. One witness in particular, Nicole Lopez, is on record stating that she was kicked off the land by Dr. York after it was uncovered that she was sleeping with underage boys. This would make Nicole Lopez a child molester by her own admission.

Lopez crimes could be proven and she even admits to it on the stand.

Lopez was granted immunity for those crimes if she testified against Dr. York. By claiming to be victimized by Dr. York, she was granted immunity and could not be tried for her crimes. This is on record and grounds for a mistrial. The government’s key witness, Habibah Washington, recanting her statement is grounds for a mistrial.

There has been much mishandling of Dr. York’s case. No cameras were allowed in the courtroom despite Dr. Malachi York repeatedly asking for media coverage because he had nothing to hide. The government, on the other hand, had much to hide and the trial was held in a closed courtroom. Despite the trial documents being sealed to hide the case, most of the facts that I found are recorded in other court documents which are readily available to the public, such as affidavits, post and pretrial documents, motions, etc. Habibah Washington and other people evolved in the case are video recorded giving their accounts. Don’t believe me, check it out.

I was surprised to learn that Dr. York’s trial took place during a federal holiday, namely, Dr. King’s Day in the year 2004. All government buildings are closed on any federally recognized holiday. The judge presiding over Dr. York’s trial, Judge C. Ashley Royal, decided to open court on Dr. King’s Day. Judge C. Judge Ashley Royal was not a chief judge at the time. Only a chief judge can legally open court on federal holidays in the case of an extreme circumstance. Dr. York’s trial was the first time in American History for a federal court to be open during a federal holiday. Not only is that a racist act due to what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. day represents to America, but it was against the law. So, what is the significance of holding Dr. York’s trial during Dr. King’s Day? It just so happens that the state of Georgia and other states has recently been in the process of trying to rid Dr. King’s Day as a federal holiday. So, by having Dr. York’s trial on Dr. King’s Day 149

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would set the precedence of state and federal courts not having to recognize Dr. King’s Day. In that case, Dr. Malachi York’s trial became bigger than just Dr. Malachi York by that action. By dishonoring one black man at the expense of another black man’s accomplishments is how Dr. Malachi York’s case would become a modern KKK story. The trial was also moved to the judge’s home town.

Dr. York and the judge even knew each other from past dealings before Judge C. Ashley Royal became a judge and was a practicing lawyer. Dr. Malachi York’s family sued Ocenee Medical Regional Hospital for wrongful death after Dr. York’s father in law named Mr. Roosevelt Richardson was killed in the hospital. Doctors left a sponge in Mr. Richardson after a surgical procedure which resulted in Mr. Richardson’s death. Mr. C. Ashley Royal was one of the attorneys representing the hospital. The York family won that case. Mr. C. Ashley Royal would later be the presiding judge over Dr. York’s case, which is a conflict of interest and illegal.

Dr. Malachi York was sentenced to serve 135 years even though all of the evidence supported Dr. York and not the prosecution. He was then removed from the public eye and kept very quiet, however, his movement continues.

Nuwaupians can be found all over the globe and the movement is still in the process of growing. Despite attempts to assassinate his character or keep him out of sight, Dr. York’s popularity is quickly growing. In 2010, four billboards where put up requesting to bring Dr. York home in Ghana, West Africa. Earlier in that same year, demonstrations around the world were held to bring attention to the injustice done to Dr. Malachi York which included Canada, New York, Washington D.C., Trinidad, London and the list goes on. Many who may not have been interested became interested. I would fall into that category because I knew nothing about Dr. Malachi York prior to learning of his case.

So, what is Dr. Malachi York up to now? Dr. Malachi York is still very active and continues his battle. Efforts are being made to affect his immediate release. Since his incarceration, world intervention is in the works because his incarceration is a violation of international law due to his diplomatic and sovereign status which is all on record. Because of the many injustices with his case, I became interested to know why a government would violate so many of its own laws. That is when I realized that there were many political prisoners from all walks of life, throughout the U.S.A. I also realized that America has more prisons than public schools. Dr. Malachi York is still alive today serving time in the maximum security prison located in Florence, Colorado. This prison is where the most dangerous felons are moved to, which include terrorists and those who kill 150

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correction officers or other inmates. This prison is for those who are too dangerous to be amongst the general population. Dr. Malachi York is the only prisoner in that jail doing time for a non-violent crime. Much of the prison is located underground.

My goal in writing this essay is to gain support and bring attention for Dr. Malachi York and other political prisoners who are swept under the rug. My primary goal is simply to educate the public and bring attention to this ongoing issue which is constantly repeating itself. This way, people will research the information for them selves and gather their own facts by thorough investigation.

My goal is for the facts to gain support. Dr. Malachi York’s story is bigger than Dr. Malachi York himself. His story can be anyone’s story. People of all persuasion have found themselves in similar predicaments. Whether one agrees with Dr. York and his teachings is irrelevant. The facts stand that a huge injustice has been committed. There are many political prisoners throughout the world today simply because they may not have been seen as popular to the status quo at their particular time. Great lengths are taken to silence them time and time again. Dr. York happens to fit that description as do so many others. It is up to us to gather the facts and sort them out for ourselves. This same scenario can happen again and will continue to happen if something is not done about it. When we live our lives based on truth then truth is what is left standing. Everything else falls.

What exactly did Dr. Malachi York teach and what is the Nuwaupian movement?

Nuwaupu is considered the fastest growing movement in the modern world. First introduced by Dr. Malachi York to the Western Hemisphere, it is now known throughout the world. Dr. Malachi York describes Nuwaupu as the ancient science of sound right reason. Spirituality has been invaded with superstition and misinformation which renders its victims ignorant or has its victims ignoring facts which causes spiritual bondage. Dr. Malachi York is an advocate for scientific investigation. His most popular phrase is, ―Don’t believe me. Check it out‖. Submission to only facts is an ancient science once practiced by the ancients. Nuwaupu is based on that very principle and defined as a ―spiritual science‖. Science can be applied to every facet of life and that is the key to a Nuwaupian’s spiritual power. To our ancient ancestors, science and spirituality was synonyms. Spirituality was corrupted by the removal of science due to misunderstanding and due to attempts to control the masses. A Nuwaupian strives to get to the root of all things, putting an end to all belief. To know 151

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surpasses any belief. That renders the Nuwaupian mentally alive because the mind must stay active and inquisitive. Dr. Malachi York has been controversial as he seemingly switches schools of thought from time to time, bearing many titles. However, he has been able to prove that all schools really have their root in one school. Much of the information scattered throughout the world in many cultures and religions can find its root in ancient Tama Re, also known as Kemet or Egypt. The best teachers consider and are knowledgeable about where their student is coming from. Dr. Malachi York has devoted his life to correcting misinformation. ―I came to set the record straight.‖ He then points to where that record came from, each school finding its way to a common home. Dr. York is always pointing to the root, taking time to master language to its core and numerous schools of thought. Not limited by one place or time, his students benefit from the study of the smallest cells, to the largest galaxies. He encourages thorough study even if it means learning a new language or seemingly switching schools of thought. A popular phrase he often uses is, ―Truth is truth‖. Dr. York calls Nuwaupu the living doctrine because there is no cap on it. We study everything to its root. In this way, no subject is limited or off limits. A scientist seeks knowledge or data and then fully scrutinizes it. The test will either confirm the data or disprove the data.

Dr. Malachi York accomplishments are very numerous. His mission has been to seek out leaders, not followers. Known as ―the Master Teacher‖, he says he has come to teach the masters. This is why he is considered a threat. He appeals to the intellect which means more people thinking for themselves. He encourages active students, not mere followers, although followers always find their way to vampire off of any doctrine. An example of this would be a Christian who has never read the bible, but lets the preacher do all the work. Much of the misinformation that has been accepted as social norms, religion, culture and even laws is due to the ignorance of the people. The mind is the greatest asset. This is what made Dr. Malachi York so loved and feared at the same time. Loved by those who found answers in his teachings and feared by those whose system is threatened by the ―active‖ mind that dares to question. Dr. Malachi York has the ability to offer answers about any and every subject. He fully immerses himself in the subject of study and lends himself as an example to his students. Author of hundreds of books, Dr. York has dealt with every subject under the sun.

Everything is neatly tied together by always going back to the source, which is another way of keeping connected. This is Dr. Malachi York’s teaching style. He teaches the student thorough study and most importantly, to ask questions and seek answers. Merry may be contacted at fashionableactress@yahoo.com 152

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culture, entertainment, film, books ..

Reggae fans in Jamaica mark Bob Marley's death

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KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) -- Scores of reggae fans from across the globe placed roses before a statue of Bob Marley on Wednesday to mark the 30th anniversary of the death of the musician, whose charismatic, loose-limbed stage presence and lyrics promoting "one love" took the Jamaican musical genre to an international audience.

Tourists watched as three clerics from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church spread incense and holy water around the Bob Marley Museum, the singer's former home in the capital of Kingston. Rastafarians who gathered around the property spoke in reverential tones about the icon of reggae music who died of cancer in 1981 at age 36.

Yuya Furukawa, 29, came all the way from Kumamoto, Japan, to pay homage to Marley, who preached nonmaterialism and popularized the Rastafarian credo of oneness with nature and marijuana consumption as a sacrament.

"Bob Marley is like a god in Japan," said Furukawa, holding a burning marijuana cigarette as he gazed up at the flower-laden statue of Marley holding his favorite Gibson guitar and pointing a finger skyward.

The singer's Rastafarian faith was a reason for the low-key observance.

Rastafarians, who consider the late Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie the messiah, view death simply as a step that brings believers closer to God, or "Jah." "We're trying to quietly and somberly honor and recognize his life on this day," said Jackie Lynch-Stewart, general manager of the Bob Marley Foundation.

Roger Steffens, a Marley historian and reggae archivist, said Marley's music remains alive 30 years after his death "because the situations that Bob was singing about are exactly the same situations we're undergoing today."

"He told us that if we stand up for ourselves we can bring about change, that love conquers evil and that a divine spark animates us all," Steffens said in an email.

"Bob spoke to the best in each of us and is an enduring symbol of rebellion for youth everywhere."

Marley's anthems calling for love and unity still resonate with many Jamaicans, even if most younger islanders have long ago moved on to the brash reggae-rap hybrid of dancehall reggae music.

"Bob is a person who is timeless. He is real, and now everybody wants to follow the crowd," said Jamaican graffiti and dancehall artist LA Lewis, who showed up at the Kingston museum wearing a flawless white suit.

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Born in 1945, Marley came of age in the gritty Trench Town community of Kingston and later shot to global stardom with hits including "Get Up, Stand Up" and "No Woman, No Cry." His lyrics promoting social justice and African unity made him an icon in developing countries.

His acceptance by mainstream America was sealed when the Budweiser frogs grooved to his song "Jamming" in a 1999 beer ad. His "One Love" anthem woos tourists to Jamaica on TV spots featuring white-sand beaches and swaying palms.

In his Caribbean homeland, Marley's legend was cemented in 1978 when he famously united warring political leaders Michael Manley and Edward Seaga in a solidarity handshake during his One Love Peace Concert in Kingston -- a moment that has become immortalized in Jamaican consciousness.

"He was a brave man," said a 62-year-old Rastafarian called Ozzie, his long dreadlocks tucked into a crocheted cap. "And his music had a message to deliver.

Still does."

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Legendary Smokey Robinson New CD “Time Flies When You’re Having Fun”

Artwork By Shepard Fairey‟s Studio Number One

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Smokey Robinson – one of the most beloved and influential figures in the history of popular music – will unleash a new album of original material (and one surprising cover song) „Time Flies When You‟re Having Fun‟ on ROBSO Records/ADA Distribution.

The first single at radio will be Robinson‟s cover of Norah Jones‟ “Don‟t Know Why.” With guests Joss Stone, Carlos Santana, and India. Arie lending their estimable musical talents and famed graphic artist Shepard Fairey‟s Studio Number One providing the cover art, Smokey‟s newest disc (which he produced with the assistance of Gary Gold and Brian French) will undoubtedly galvanize new fans as well as longtime admirers. And as a slew of awards and other honors come his way, this Motown trailblazer and national treasure is sure to dominate in 2009 as he celebrates a dazzling 50 years in the limelight.

Time Flies was recorded, like his Motown tracks, with the band in one room. “That way was like doing a concert, because everybody was feeding off of each other,” Smokey reflects. “It‟s just that live vibe.” The new songs recall various phases of his career, boasting old-school duets (such as “You‟re Just My Life,” with India.Arie, and “You‟re the One for Me” with Stone), midtempo R&B-pop (“Girlfriend”) and intimate soul (“Whatcha Gonna Do,” “Love Bath” and the title track). Santana‟s inimitable guitar chimes in on the sensual jam “Please Don‟t Take Your Love.”

Smokey‟s one departure from self-penned material is his take on the Norah Jones hit “Don‟t Know Why,” which he makes entirely his own – and which is sure to send chills down listeners‟ spines. The whole package will be wrapped up with cover graphics by Shepard Fairey‟s Studio Number One, best known for the ubiquitous Barack Obama “Hope” poster.

Smokey is once again ubiquitous himself. On June 26, the man Bob Dylan once called “America‟s greatest living poet” received the prestigious Rhythm & Soul Heritage Award from ASCAP (the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) during the 22nd Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards. The honor is bestowed on artists who have had a major impact on the legacy of Rhythm and Soul Music.

Further recognition of that legacy came from Boston‟s Berklee College of Music, which in May conferred an honorary degree on Smokey; the Ivor Novello Awards, where he received the UK International Special Achievement Award in May; the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which inducted him with his group, The Miracles, in March (he‟d already received a star as a solo artist several years earlier); and Elvis Costello‟s acclaimed TV series “Spectacle” on the Sundance Channel, during which the host spent a spellbinding hour chatting and singing with the music-world icon. In 2006 (the year of his last release, Timeless Love), he was among the five honorees at the Kennedy Center Honors.

It‟s scarcely a surprise, in the year of Motown‟s 50th anniversary, that Smokey would be so roundly praised and feted – he is, after all, the sterling pen and satin voice behind such 162

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mega hits as “Shop Around,” “Tracks of My Tears,” “You‟ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “Tears of a Clown,” “I Second That Emotion,” “Going to a Go-Go” and “Cruisin‟,” among others too numerous to list here.

And those are just some of the Smokey hits that Smokey sang; Marvin Gaye (“Ain‟t That Peculiar,” “I‟ll Be Doggone”), The Temptations (“My Girl,” “The Way You Do the Things You Do”), The Four Tops (“Still Water (Love)”), Mary Wells (“You Beat Me to the Punch,” “My Guy”), The Marvelettes (“Don‟t Mess With Bill,” “The Hunter Gets Captured by the Game”), Brenda Holloway (“When I‟m Gone”) and other Motown greats propelled a trove of sparkling Robinson compositions up the charts during the years of Motown‟s unrivaled dominance. All over the world at this very moment, radio stations, jukeboxes, iPods, movie soundtracks and the absent-minded humming of myriad music fans are alight with his melodies.

With Time Flies When You‟re Having Fun, the great Smokey Robinson has conjured still more songs to get stuck in listeners‟ heads. “Has it been 50 years already?” Smokey asks.

“Time really does fly.”

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Is Love Really There?

By Destinee Love

Trying to determine someone’s affection toward you can be difficult at times if you are left with unanswered questions. The only true way to know if someone really loves you is if they accept you for everything that you are, and everything you are not.

Nothing more, nothing less! No one is perfect but true love accepts the perfections and imperfections of your habits and lifestyle. You have to make sure that the one you love loves only you and no one else.

An honest relationship built on intimacy and trust creates a special bond between the two of you that will last a lifetime. If you are lacking one or the other, and in most cases more than the two, then the issue will remain the same or continue to grow. Questions of their feelings or affections towards you should be inevitable.

It would be displayed through their words, actions, or conduct. It’s never monetary, materialistic, or possessive. So if you are pondering the question at hand, check out some tips below to help with suspicions or uncertainties.

Character Character is perhaps the most important essence a person can possess, as it defines who a person is. You may wonder what one’s character has to do with their love for you. But when you think about it a person that has strong traits of charisma, charm, and intelligence possibly means they will show integrity and will not be afraid to show their emotions.

Ask Them Be outright. If all else fails and you really need to know the other person's feelings, you may have to be bold and ask. Just be prepared for disappointment if this doesn't work out. But don't spend too much time asking or they will be turned off by the assumption that you are coming on too strong. It could be that you are in the early stages of your relationship, or they are mentally not prepared to answer some or all of your questions. Spending more quality time with the individual may be a good way to observe how he or she responds physically to 171

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you. Lastly, never ask via text or e-mail. Always ask up close and personal; face to face.

Patience Is a Virtue We have all heard this statement before. A relationship takes time to be comfortable with each other, and time to form a commitment. You should not have to force someone who may not be ready to express their feelings of love because you feel you are. As stated before, this could lead to them feeling trapped or cornered. Sometimes waiting works out best too!

A few things to Remember: If he/she is always distant from you (never wants to hold hands, kiss, or ask how you are feeling), he or she may be contemplating ending the relationship, but might be scared of breaking your heart. Do not fear though, in some cases they may be going through some hardships and need you more as a friend than a lover. Also, do not try to manipulate others to love you, it never works. And if you are playing hard to get, make sure you don't go too far. You may end up standing alone at a distance. Much Love and remember to ―Keep it Sexi‖!

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To order visit: www.destineelove.net

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Zodiac & More

By Alicia Wilson Greetings my brothers and sisters in love!!!!! I trust all of you had a wonderful and celebrated Easter this year!! I would like to focus my attention this month on charity. I t has some to my attention that maybe we are not doing enough for our brothers and sisters in need. This spring season has already brought upon us the tornadoes and spring and summer rain storms that usually plague us this time of the year. Springfield , Ill hasn’t seen a real tornado yet this year but was surprised by the one we had a few years ago which left lots of damage to property and minimal loss of life and inconvenienced a lot of people but we have pretty much recovered from that damage wise.

Many were definitely surprised by the one in St Louis just this past weekend. I watched the news and wondered how everyone was doing having family there I checked on them and they were fine but what about those who were not? There was considerable damage and most of the neighbors were pretty willing to help each other out in the crisis which is how it should be but what are we doing as individuals? Can you imagine being in the Haiti earth quake, the tsunami in Japan and of course let us not forget here in our own United States Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana. How would most of us feel if we were suddenly left without a home or loss of life in our family due to a major natural disaster? I believe in karma what goes around comes around if we all pitch in to help others it will come back to us in a good way. Many of us have made the call by volunteering at shelters and Red Cross and other organizations that aid and assist in these times of need. Springfield has been pretty lucky in some respects that we haven’t had a major natural disaster wipe out our fair city but who is to say anything about 175

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what my grandmother says about the ―Lord’s work‖. It is my sincere hope that all of us find the time to donate and volunteer in the best way to help those in need after a natural disaster we never know when karma may call on us to fulfill a blessing to others or someone fulfilling a blessing to us!!!.

Gemini (May 21st- June 20th) - You will be busy with friends and activities related to organizations you're involved with. This would be a good time to organize a hike with your buddies or start a new project together.

The Sun, Mercury, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, and Uranus will move through the sign of Aries.

This

assertive

energy

will

help

you

confidently step into a leadership role when called upon. You may be an event organizer or the one who takes the initial steps to get things underway. A New Moon in Aries on April 3 will further emphasize Aries energy and keep your energy level up for weeks.

Cancer (June 21st- July 20th) - Your career may take off this month if you put the necessary effort into making some changes.

This is a good time to initiate contact with a potential mentor, circulate your resume, and follow new opportunities. Several planets in the sign of Aries will be in square to your sign, though, and make you feel pressured and stressed. At this time, you will have to be proactive and assertive. This won't be comfortable for you, but it will be the only way to improve your situation. A New Moon in Aries on April 3 will also motivate

you

to

do

things

differently.

Alicia

may

be

contacted

at

facebook.com/AliciaSapphireBlueWilson.

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Debt Free: How to Create the Right Mind-Set to Get Out of Debt

By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox

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As a Money Coach for nearly a decade, and as someone who once owed $100,000 in credit card debt, I know that becoming debt-free isn't just about using proper money-management techniques and effective debt-elimination strategies. It's also about having the right mind-set to get out of debt.

Here are four insights to help you create the right mindset to get out of debt.

1. It's Not About the Money Most of us erroneously think that the biggest drawback of being in debt is the amount of money we have to pay to banks and creditors. We bemoan all the cash that goes down the drain in the form of interest. Or we rail about high fees, late payments and other charges tied to having debt.

The real price tag of debt, though, isn't the financial cost associated with owing others. It's the toll that debt takes on every area of your life. Debt wreaks havoc on you emotionally, causing physical and mental stress. Debt taxes relationships, leading couples to argue more or divorce.

Debt limits your personal and career options, keeping you in a dead-end job or unable to move because you owe too much money on your credit cards or your mortgage. Shockingly, if you're deep in debt, you could even get locked up.

So stop thinking that becoming debt-free in simply a way to improve your wallet. Think instead about how becoming debt-free will improve your entire life, including your health, your relationships and your overall emotional well-being.

2. You Have More Power/Leverage Than You Think Debt can often feel like bondage -- and for good reason. When you're deep in debt, you're essentially a slave to your creditors. But despite the fact that you may owe thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars to banks or other financial institutions, you have more leverage than you may think.

For instance, if you are facing high-interest rate credit cards, you have the power to call up your credit card company and negotiate. Unfortunately, too few consumers do this. They think: "I'm just one small customer" or "The bank is going to say 'No' anyway." But banks send out billions of credit card solicitations annually, and if you've been paying your bills on time, the bank doesn't want to lose your business. So simply calling up the issuer or your Visa or MasterCard and asking: "Is this the best rate you can offer?" could get you better terms.

Even bankruptcy – which I only recommend as a last resort - is a form of leverage with your creditors. Banks know that if you file for bankruptcy protection, they may get nothing. So in such cases, they may be more flexible and willing to negotiate. My point is: Once you shift your mind-set to being proactive about your debt, instead of passive or reactive about it, you'll be better equipped to chip away at those bills and come up with strategies that best suit your individual circumstances.

3. It's NOT Someone Else's Fault We'd all like to blame someone else for our debt woes and our financial problems. The 178

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"irresponsible" ex-spouse who ran up the bills. The "stingy" boss who wouldn't give us a raise. Or maybe even the "greedy" bankers who gave us credit and loans in the first place! But to get out of debt, you have to accept responsibility for your predicament. You have to think about the choices YOU made, the things YOU did - or did not do - that led to your current state of financial affairs.

It's only by seeing your own level of personal responsibility that you become empowered. You have to start to think: "If I got myself in to this mess, I have the power to get myself out of it."

Even if you got in to debt through seemingly no fault of your own (perhaps because you were downsized, went through a divorce, or had big medical bills in the family), you should review what happened and think about how you could have financially protected yourself and safeguarded your household against such unforeseen events.

Could you have had a bigger savings nest egg? Could you have had more insurance? Instead of blaming others, focus on what you could have done to help avoid the situation or what's within your power that you can do to fix the problem now.

4. Paying Off High-Interest-Rate Debt First Isn't Always the Best Strategy Here's a bit of financial advice that you've likely heard over and over: Pay off your high-interestrate-credit-card debt first. Unfortunately, it's also bad advice that doesn't fit everyone's circumstances.

Some people shouldn't worry about high-rate debt because, frankly, the interest rates on their debts aren't really that high at all. They should focus on paying off cards with the highest dollar balances. Others should go after cards with the lowest dollar balances. How do you know which is best? Think about what bothers you most -- and then attack your area of pain.

If you're stressed out because your cards are all maxed out, then you need to pay off cards with the highest dollar balances first. If you're finding it hard to keep up with so many credit cards because you've got a wallet full of plastic, then you should pay off the cards with the lowest dollar balances first. As you pay off cards, then use the money you had been paying to double up on the next card.

The main reason you shouldn't always pay off your high-interest-rate debt first is because that strategy can takes many months - if not years - before you see your balances start to budge. For most people, that's way too long and depressing. Who wants to fight against debt month after month only to see that the $170 they paid on a Visa card only covered $17 worth of the principal balance and the other $153 went toward interest? Little wonder that people don't stay motivated or stick to a payoff plan when the only advice they get is: pay off high-rate debt first.

So instead, use a payoff strategy that lets you get an immediate emotional boost from seeing that your plan is working. That will keep you motivated and on track to becoming debt-free.

Getting out of debt takes persistence and some savvy financial moves. But it also requires that right mindset – especially if you want to be debt-free as quickly as possible. Source: www.thegrio.com 179

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October Warden Says, “Beauty is Truly Skin Deep…”

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An Inspirational Beauty! This young lady is more than just a pretty face. She is a mother, an intelligent woman, and so much more. She stands out from the rest because of her ability to achieve results. To adapt and perfect what she set her mind to. October is truly an original like her namesake. Her style is her own effortlessly. She embraces health and wellness first, as well as her love of modeling and photography!

Awakening after 8 years of being obese from these main 3 factors in her life: poor dietary choices, lack of exercise and stress, October made the mental choice of just doing it. Going to a basic diet of eating raw and natural foods for months, portion control and good old- fashioned working out, assisted in the ―miraculous‖ shedding of her excess weight within an unbelievable 5 months. This Fabulous Black Butterfly has truly emerged from her cocoon!

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Growing up in a single parent home in the Chicago land area, October started on the bad road of eating lifeless processed foods due to lack of money in the household.

Keeping those bad diet habits as well as not exercising at all continued thru out early adulthood, which eventually ―caught up‖ and the weight started piling on. Not one to use excuses, she just stopped one day and changed for the better. This health journey has produced amazing results and truly has permanently changed October for life.

Not only has health become a part of her permanently, she also found a new permanent love of roller-skating. This relationship goes hand in hand, since skating burns as many calories as running!

October also loves spending time with family and close friends and always is up for a new adventure.

Learn more about the October’s health regimen visit her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/octoberwarden.

"Beauty Is Truly Skin Deep. It’s An Old Cliché, Yet It Is Truth!

Having a Beautiful Inside Equals A Fabulous Outside & Makes You Radiate Like The Sun!” ~ October

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Genes, not race, determine donor kidney survival

Donated kidneys from black donors do not last as long as those from non-black donors, and new research from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center shows why.

The same gene that causes kidneys to stop functioning in blacks is now found to be responsible for the failure of kidney transplants from black donors. The organs are not failing simply because of the donors' race, but because those individuals have differences in a specific gene: APOL1, says Dr. Barry I. Freedman, senior investigator on the project.

The APOL1 gene is found in one out of 10 African-Americans. Kidney experts believe these altered genes became common in Africa because they protected people from a parasite infection called African Sleeping Sickness.

Africans without this altered gene died, leaving behind a population of Africans who continued to pass on the gene.

Researchers reviewed transplant records since 1998, looking for all patients who received a kidney transplant from a deceased black donor, collecting data on 136 kidneys.

"We have shown for the first time that genetic risk variants in kidney donors are associated with markedly different outcomes after kidney transplantation," said Freedman. "This finding could dramatically change the way we practice."

Researchers are hopeful that this study can provide transplant doctors with a better way to screen for kidneys that have the best chance of survival.

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Donated kidneys from black donors do not last as long as those from non-black donors, and new research from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center shows why.

The same gene that causes kidneys to stop functioning in blacks is now found to be responsible for the failure of kidney transplants from black donors. The organs are not failing simply because of the donors' race, but because those individuals have differences in a specific gene: APOL1, says Dr. Barry I. Freedman, senior investigator on the project.

The APOL1 gene is found in one out of 10 African-Americans. Kidney experts believe these altered genes became common in Africa because they protected people from a parasite infection called African Sleeping Sickness.

Africans without this altered gene died, leaving behind a population of Africans who continued to pass on the gene.

Researchers reviewed transplant records since 1998, looking for all patients who received a kidney transplant from a deceased black donor, collecting data on 136 kidneys.

"We have shown for the first time that genetic risk variants in kidney donors are associated with markedly different outcomes after kidney transplantation," said Freedman. "This finding could dramatically change the way we practice."

Researchers are hopeful that this study can provide transplant doctors with a better way to screen for kidneys that have the best chance of survival.

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Could banning menthol cigarettes save 600,000 lives?

By Dr. Tyeese Gaines Reid

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Banning menthol cigarettes could save 600,000 premature deaths by 2050, according to new data released today in the American Journal of Public Health. A third of those deaths are among African-Americans, who predominately smoke cigarettes with menthol flavoring.

"Tobacco is not an equal-opportunity killer, and the link between menthol smoking and African Americans cannot be overemphasized, nor can it be overlooked," said Dr. David Abrams, senior author of the study and executive director of the Schroeder Institute for Tobacco Research and Policy Studies at the American Legacy Foundation.

With tobacco companies heavily marketing menthol cigarettes in minority communities, as many as 80 percent of African-Americans smokers smoke menthol cigarettes over other brands. African-American smokers die from lung cancer more than whites, even though their overall exposure to cigarette smoke is lower.

Menthol flavoring is derived from peppermint plants and is thought to mask the irritation from cigarette smoke, cooling the mouth and throat. For that reason, some smokers perceive the health risks as lower with these types of cigarettes.

While the flavoring alone does not directly increase rates of lung cancer or lung disease, some studies suggest that menthol cigarettes are more addictive, making it harder for the smoker to quit. Despite a 22 percent decline in cigarette sales, menthol cigarette sales remained the same from 2000 to 2005.

"For decades, tobacco companies have preyed upon these populations, and these communities are paying the price," said Aisha Moodie-Mills, Advisor for LGBT Policy & Racial Justice at the Center for American Progress. "The FDA scientific advisory committee has concluded that removing menthol from the marketplace will save lives, and that should be our highest priority."

Today, in lieu of the new data, four organizations -- American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, Center for American Progress and The American Legacy Foundation -- support the findings and called for menthol cigarettes to be taken off the market. "A majority of African-American smokers [also] support a menthol ban," said Dr. Jonathan Klein, Director of the Julius B. Richmond Center, based on data collected in the annual Social Climate Survey.

The FDA is currently reviewing conclusions from the Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting in March 2011 that stated public health would benefit from a menthol ban. The FDA has until mid-June to give its initial response.

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Busy Life? It Might Be Making You Fat

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(BlackDoctor.org) -- According to a new study, trying to balance too many unrelated tasks can result in self-discipline sabotage. As a result, you may find it harder to control your temper, resist fattening foods, or stick to your exercise routine.

Why? Because doing things like compulsively checking your smartphone every two minutes as you help your kids do their homework, or frequently shifting between different tasks on the job, can exhaust the “executive function” of the brain.

The researchers behind the study, which is published in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, have concluded that our brains are only wired to shift mental gears a limited number of times before the intellectual resources required for self control are exhausted. After a certain point, people become more prone to such behavior as emotional outbursts or cheating on their diet.

How does multi-tasking undermine healthy eating?

In one experiment, the volunteers were asked to think abstractly about one topic, think in more concrete or technical terms about another, or combine the two types of thought. Afterwards, the volunteers were offered a bitter-flavored beverage and told of its health benefits. Those who switched back and forth between concrete and abstract thought drank one-third the amount of the bitter beverage than did volunteers who were only asked to use one type of thought, thus demonstrating less self-control in healthy eating than did non-multi-taskers, the study found. This finding could also apply to sticking to a weight-loss diet, which requires daily self-discipline, the researchers point out. Multi-tasking could make you more prey to the temptations of distracted eating, a common problem when people are stressed out by a hectic, juggling lifestyle.

What’s the effect of multi-tasking on physical fitness?

In another experiment, a group of of bilingual volunteers were either asked to answer questions in one language or switch between two languages. The participants were then asked to perform a physical task: squeezing a handgrip as long as possible. People who answered questions in one language were able to endure for twice as long, suggesting that they had much greater self-control to tough it out on a physical level because their brains weren‟t exhausted by the demands of thinking in two different languages.

Physical endurance and sustained mental motivation are both key elements for sticking to a workout routine, noted researcher Ryan Hamilton of Emory University.

So...what should you do?

"It‟s smart to focus on one task at a time, instead of shifting back and forth between activities," says Kathleen Vohs, one of the study's authors. "It helps to conserve mental energy to do the tough stuff, such as staying motivated to stick your diet and work out regularly, despite the many frustrations, temptations, and obstacles that make sustaining a healthy lifestyle over the long haul so daunting." And from a business perspective, the researchers note, self-control and single-minded focus, even in the face of the tedious tasks and myriad distractions that pop up during the workday, can boost your job performance.

The bottom line on multi-tasking? Reducing the frequency with which you bounce from task to task to task can help make you healthier, wealthier...and thinner.

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Small Steps To Big Changes For Diabetes Control

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(BlackDoctor.org) -- Often times, when being diagnosed with diabetes, you are overwhelmed with plenty of information and changes. One of the changes that does not have to be so overwhelming, but can greatly improve your blood sugar, is diet. By definition, diet simply means the foods that you choose everyday.

There are no special foods for people with diabetes; you can eat all of the same foods that your family enjoys. Food is such an important part of our culture and while some of our favorite foods may contribute to diabetes and heart disease, we should not have to give them up all together. By simple portion control and modifying the preparation of foods, you can enjoy all the foods that you love.

We have to remember that carbohydrates, foods that turn into sugar, are our bodyâ€&#x;s main source of energy. While large amounts can cause your blood sugar to increase, small amounts are necessary.

An easy way to make sure you are having the right number of servings is to use an 8-inch plate as your guide. First, fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, such as collard greens, salad, or green beans.

Then place a portion of lean meat, such as skinless chicken or pork loin, about the size of a deck of cards, on one corner of the plate. Lastly, place your carbohydrates, such as grains, starchy vegetables, breads, or fruits, in the last corner of your plate.

It is also important to remember that what you drink can contribute an additional 120-240 calories per serving. Try flavored water or sugar-free beverages to cut back on sugar and calories.

Now letâ€&#x;s talk about what actually goes onto the plate. We have to consider that the preparation of these foods can totally change how they affect our bodies. When we fry foods or add

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10 Ways To Motivate Yourself To Workout

By Kelly L. Jackson You’ve made the commitment to begin a healthier lifestyle.for 2011. Month 1 was challenging but good. Month 2 is ok but your life is getting busy and making time to workout is becoming difficult. Have no Fear! Here’s some encouraging ways to keep yourself motivated!

Blackdoctor.org has 10 ways to trick yourself into working out and/or maintaining your workout schedule. Check them out!

1. Channel that glorious post workout feeling. Whenever you feel the instinct to skip a sweat session, imagine how accomplished and energized you feel after just 30 minutes or an hour of exercise. Just get there already.

2. Make a date with a friend or fitness trainer. If you set a time to meet someone, you’ll feel obligated to go, even when your mind and body are telling you otherwise.

3. Create a healthy post workout routine and make time for it too.

Reward yourself after a workout by scheduling extra moments to relax in the steam room, get your hair done, get a hot coffee, or simply sit and enjoy some good, healthy food.

4. Schedule your workout early. Get going in the morning before the day’s distractions detour you from your workout intentions.

5. Carry a motivational token or photo with you. Beyoncé says she keeps a painting of an Oscar at the gym, so she’s literally running toward her next goal. Snap a shot of the dress you want to wear on your next date, a beautiful beach you hope to visit this year, or even yourself at your best, and make it the wallpaper on your phone. When you feel like caving, look at it as a healthy reminder.

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6. Instead of going home to watch your favorite show on the couch, suit up and watch it on the treadmill. If your gym doesn't have TVs on each machine load up your iPod or iPhone.

7. Try something new. Sign up for an exercise class you've never taken before, take a hike to a lookout spot, ride your bike to a new trail or work out at a different time.

8. Throw on your favorite workout wear and some lip gloss. Dolling up can make you feel positive and pretty when you see your reflection working out.

9. Avoid taking a physical dip by fueling your body with a healthy pre-workout snack. You'll have something to burn and a boost of protein to keep your eye on the prize.

10. Give yourself a gold star. Plot out a reward system and treat yourself when you

hit your goal of workouts per week, weight loss, or the finish line. Source: www.blackdoctor.org

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Can Massage Therapy Help You Lose Weight?

Believe it or not, massage therapy can enhance many facets of your weight loss program and aid in even greater results. Collectively, we tend to think of massage therapy as pampering for primarily well-to-do people or a special treat for the occasional recipient. However, studies have shown that massage therapy on a regular basis provides increased weight reduction for a number of reasons. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the advantages.

Post-Workout Pain From time to time our muscles cry out for mercy during or after a good workout. This happens all too often when we forget to stretch afterward. Ice packs and over-thecounter pain relievers only do so much. Massage is a good way to soothe muscle strains.

Lactic and carbonic acids are excreted by your body during a workout as well. By increasing the circulation with massage therapy you are provided with a much shorter recovery time after a hard workout.

General Musculoskeletal Complaints Not all of us work in perfect ergonomic positions and our back pays the price. We end up with tightened muscles and even knots in the upper back and shoulders. Being in the same position for hours on end decreases circulation and causes difficulty in maintaining proper posture 100% of the time. If you work in a seated position in front of a computer for the majority of each day, you probably slouch your shoulders and even the lower legs and ankles may become swollen. A full body massage can increase circulation and relieve musculoskeletal tension.

Behavior Health and Motivation If you’ve never had a real massage, it’s high time you treated yourself. You leave feeling rejuvenated, beautified, energized and relaxed all at the same time. Aches and pains can cause us to be in a bad mood, but after the massage you just feel on top of the world and ready for your next workout. As a motivation boost, nothing beats a massage. Massage therapy alone isn’t going to get you into a bikini or your favorite little black dress, but it certainly will affect other efforts to lose weight and get into shape. Sometimes we get overwhelmed with what we can’t eat and how much exercise we have to endure to shed those extra pounds. Massage therapy can be the cherry on top of the cake and even help you reach your goals!

Call Celeste MajorMoves Poole to schedule an appointment today (217) 280-1367 195

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Tony Jones provides his services, influence, vision and positive role modeling to uplift and improve his community any way he can 196

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Through his vision and desire to fill needs, he proactively created the “mix online� website (www.themixonline.net). This website publishes details about upcoming community events in Bloomington/Normal, Decatur, Peoria & Springfield. This website helps our community to be connected and informed while reaching out to the AfricanAmerican community in all of Central Illinois.

He recently helped spearhead the creation of an Entrepreneur Showcase to inform our community of African American businesses, to foster both entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. The partnership for this event is known as Perfect Productions, Inc. He is a talented entrepreneur and donates his time and services to a variety of community organizations helping them implement successful events at significant cost savings. In 2007, he created a monthly fund raiser event for community organizations known as the Thursday Mix. To date, this effort has donated over $30,000 to local charities and community organizations.

Perhaps his greatest accomplishment for our community is coordinating the Bloomington-Normal Cultural Festival. This event attracts a crowd of over 15,000 yearly and provides a venue for the entire community to showcase a variety cultures, community resources, entertainment and community outreach.

In addition to his general community work, Tony has a heart for uplifting youth. He is the co-founder of Mentoring and Providing Scholarships (MAPS Program) which provides high school seniors with the insight and knowledge they need for success in college. The organization also provides scholarships to help the students pursue their college education.

He has received several awards from local and national civic organizations and serves on numerous boards including the Boys & Girls Club, Cultural Festival Inc., Bloomington Performing Arts Center, 100 Black Men of Central Illinois, and Bloomington-Normal NAACP among others. He is a proud lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity incorporated.

He is currently board chair for the McLean Community Urban League and the Bloomington Human Relations Commission.

Tony works for State Farm Insurance in Bloomington, IL as Sr. Finance Analyst; he and his wife Sonia are both natives of Virginia and enjoy traveling in their home state.

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Johnson Says There's No 'Magic' to Business Success The basketball legend-turned-entrepreneur answers Inc. Twitter followers' and Facebook fans' questions about life on and off the court.

By Tiffany Black | @minnie6998

Courtesy Dove Men + Care

Earvin "Magic" Johnson says, "It has truly been a journey for me having to find comfort in new roles throughout my life off the basketball court such as becoming an entrepreneur."

When you hear the name Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Jr., the first thing that comes to mind is basketball. Yes Johnson is a former point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers with five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and an Olympic gold medal. But the basketball hall of famer is also a philanthropist and savvy businessman.

After retiring from the NBA in 1996, he focused his attention on the Magic Johnson Foundation and Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE), which includes a portfolio of funds to finance revitalization projects in underserved communities.

He is notorious in business for having owned over 70 franchises of Starbucks and the only franchisee to own a 50 percent share. Although he recently sold his Starbucks in 2010, as well as his share of the Lakers, his name and brand is still associated with AMC Magic Johnson Theaters and 24 Hour Fitness Magic Sport centers. Johnson recently became chairman of VIBE Holdings, a multi-cultural 198

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media company that includes Vibe magazine, Uptown magazine and Soul Train brands. He is also leading the charge in bringing a football team back to Los Angeles.

Taking a break from March Madness, Johnson talked to Inc.com's Tiffany Black about managing multiple businesses, the keys to a great comeback, advice for start-ups and minority businesses, and his love of music.

In one of your Dove Men's Care commericals that started running during the NCAA tournament, you talked about how the statement "I can't" motivates you. How do you motivate others?

I tell people to look at me and understand that everybody first told me that I couldn't be a 6-foot, 9-inch point guard and I proved them wrong. Then they told me I couldn't be a businessman and make money in urban America and I proved them wrong. And they thought I couldn't win all these championships and I proved them wrong there as well. I motivate others by making sure that they understand to go after their dreams and don't let anyone tell you, you can't. If you are motivated enough and put the work in that you can achieve anything in life that you set your mind too.

You also talk about the importance of a team when it comes to winning. How can those concepts be applied for some of our readers who are one-man start-ups?

They may be a one man operation in terms of them starting their own business, but at some point they will have a team of people. When you are a successful business person, you are only as good as your team. No one can do every deal alone. I make sure that I have people who want to win, who are about winning, who are competitors, and that understand the brand and how to grow the brand.

Other entrepreneurs should define what winning is to them and then tell their management team or their company what they expect and what he or she wants to see happen—and that everybody has to work as one. In most of the corporations I know that's what happens.

You have multiple businesses and you are the personality or spokesperson for so many of them, how do you manage it all?

Again, it's putting together a great executive team and great people who work to manage the businesses. That's No. 1. No. 2, I do very few deals. I turn down more deals than I actually do. They have to be the right deals. They have to be the right corporations. Like this campaign I'm doing with Dove, I was already using the product before they called me. So this was a no-brainer for me to use Dove Men + Care products because I was using the body wash and the deodarant already.

That made it easier for me to go ahead and do the campaign because I was already excited about the products.

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Why did you sell your franchises of Starbucks?

People didn't understand I had a contract with them to sell at that time. So it wasn't that I did it randomly. It was an agreed upon exit at that particular time. I had a great, great time with Howard Schultz and Starbucks. We made a lot of money. We put a lot of people to work. And I want to thank Howard Schultz for that opportunity. But it was an exit that was already agreed upon.

Drew Lawrence from Facebook and @AaronMazor from Twitter asked about how your bid to bring the NFL back to LA is coming along given the current NFL lockout.

We are still working on it but we have to wait until the labor agreement is finalized by the players and the owners. So we are at a standstill, on the outside looking in, just as everyone else is to see when they reach an agreement. Nothing can happen until that happens. But I'm excited, very excited about the possibility.

LA deserves a team. And everybody that lives here in Los Angeles is very, very excited about the NFL coming back to Los Angeles. It will be a great day if it happens. We already cheer for all the other teams. It's a shame that on Sundays now we gotta go to sports bars and peoples homes and cheer for somebody else, not a team of our own.

Paul Shively, one of Inc.'s Facebook fans, asked what are the key factors to a great business comeback because you came back big time?

I think reinventing myself was really key for me. I have reinvented myself several times. I'm a guy who really understands who I am and what I want to accomplish.

I think the comeback is just about staying the course and then also never getting down. Because a lot of people, when they fall down, they stay down. I'm a guy who gets right back up and says, 'Okay, there is more I can do. There is more that I can achieve and I'm gonna go after it.' And then you gotta have a plan. What's your plan to comeback? You probably have to work harder than you have ever worked in your life to come back. Just look at Donald Trump, who was down and managed a come back—look at him now! So there's a lot of people who have been down, but they came back and they came back strong because they had a plan.

And because they didn't let their prior situation keep them down.

What advice do you have for minorites who have a passion for something and want to start their own business?

We have got to, first of all, start owning our own businesses. It's what makes Harlem go or Chicago go or any community go. It's not enough to be passionate about it—the No. 1 thing you have to do is research to make sure there is a business there. No. 2, make sure there is demand for what you are going to have your business in. I was able to build my company because demand was already there. You also have to understand the competition and what they are doing.

Make sure that you don't have a 'good' staff or a 'good' management team, but a great one. I would encourage all minorities to start their own business. Especially 200

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because we have so many talented young people out here today. It's really crucial for the growth of our communities. And when we own our own business then that dollar touches a lot of hands in our community because that money stays in Harlem, for example, instead of somebody owning a business and taking it out of Harlem. That's why it's importantto keep it in your neighborhood because you can give people jobs in your commuity. It also sends a great message to young people that they can dream to one day own their own businesses in their community as well.

Is there an opportunity for small business owners to utilize the Magic Workforce Solutions?

Yes, small business owners and small businesses [use the program for staffing].

They tell us what they are looking for and we train the people to do that job. We also manage those people on site if they need us to do that. It's worked out very well for us. It's in seven or eight states including Ohio, Texas, Georgia, and Michigan. It's a business that we look forward to growing. Any businesses interested can go to the website to contact us.

I live in Harlem, New York and we have a Magic Johnson theater. Any chance you will open a 24 Hour Fitness Magic Sport center in Harlem?

I would love to do that. As you know I love Harlem. What I love is that the people are so great and they really support your businesses. Harlem is definitely one place that I hope to expand because of the theater and Starbucks that I built there. We have a community empowerment center there. So yes, Harlem is a place that I will be looking to do a lot of business.

You already have movie theaters. Have you ever considered owning a movie studio or distribution company like Tyler Perry? John Riddick, through Facebook, noted that minorities have so few outlets for our films.

Great question. First I congratulate and salute Tyler, he's doing a great job.

Would I think about it? Of course, I've been thinking about it. But right now as you know and I know the studios are cutting back on producing movies. They are not doing as many movies as they used to do.

I'm doing my research and homework but I don't know if I will ever get in to it or not. If I do, hopefully the timing will be right. But if I don't, we have Tyler. I agree that we need more because we need more minority-based movies. Tyler does a wonderful job but the problem is he may give us two movies a year and we need more than that. Minorities are underserved when it comes to family entertainment and movies.

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Continuing with entertainment, you're now involved with Vibe Holdings LLC. I told my Mom and she was so excited that you might bring Soul Train back. What are your plans with Vibe and Soul Train, in particular?

Tell your Mom that's a great question and tell her yes we are working to bring Soul Train back. That's No. 1 because we all grew up and learned how to dance every Saturday morning watching Soul Train. And that's not just people of all colors. I have had people of all colors approach me about this and it's really amazing. I didn't really know until I bought it how people love Soul Train. Then when you think about the library, it is truly amazing the content that we have.

And we have already talked to a lot of companies who want to license the content and the library and we are going to start that soon. When you think about over 300,000 photos and I wouldn't tell you how many shows, it's unbelievable. Soul Train has a really unique and special library. And then Vibe has always been for the young people. I'm excited about Vibe as well, and Uptown is for the wealthy and affluent African Americans. My company is going to start buying other companies as well so this is just the beginning.

Here's a question from Kirsten Peck and Mark Myrick from the Inc. Facebook page. They love your New York Times Bestseller 32 Ways to be a Champion in Business. They want to know when are you going to do a book tour?

I will probably go back out pretty soon. Maybe in the fall or so. We have to look at it because after the NCAA Tournament then of course is the NBA Playoffs and then you never want to do a summer tour for a book or anything. So it would probably have to be in the fall. @MusickEd asked from Twitter if you ever played an instrument or if you could play an instrument what would it be?

No, I haven't played an instrument. And I think it would be the bass because that's how you dance, to the bass. I'm the biggest music lover in the world. I mean I have seen everybody. I went on tour with Michael Jackson and the Jacksons four or five times. You name them, I've seen them and probably a hundred times too. So when you think about Magic Johnson and the thing that relaxes me or gets me going or gets me on that dance floor, it is just some good music. I still love to dance even though I can't do it as long as I used too. But that's one thing I'm really passionate about, good music.

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Eleanor Smith, Founder and Editorial Director, Cherish the Soul Entertainment Blog Site Eleanor L. Smith is a feature writer, journalist and author, who is considered by her peers as an extraordinary gifted woman when it comes to the written word.

Having had hands on experience with hard news reporting, she decided to follow her passion and combine her editorial and creative proficiency with her love of every facet of the entertainment industry: music, film, television and the like.

Indeed, celebrity news is her calling and her lifelong desire is to give readers the exclusive interviews and inside look into the lives of your favorite celebrities.

Having earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Howard University, Eleanor began her media career by working with publications and organizations such as The Community Renewal Society, The Final Call Newspaper, and The Trumpet Newsmagazine. She was also a contributing writer with Red Level Entertainment, based in Chicago and Parle Magazine that is headquartered in New York. Eleanor has also served as a red carpet escort and media assistant with Black Entertainment Television during two of the network’s award shows. She is currently the Senior Entertainment Writer for the Los Angeles based online publication B Couleur Magazine in which she oversees all content and conducts all celebrity interviews to be featured.

In 2010, Eleanor made the decision to create her own entertainment blog site.

Cherish the Soul Entertainment Blog Site is her vision of bringing real Rhythm and Blues/Soul music back to the forefront of today’s media and market. The site highlights articles on local artists and celebrities, as well as her coverage on hot and exclusive events in and around Chicago and beyond.

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With Cherish the Soul Entertainment, Eleanor takes readers on the journey of music news and reviews, interviews and red carpet coverage. She has landed interviews with artists such as El DeBarge, Janet Jackson, Common, Oscar Winner Forest Whitaker, Musiq Soulchild and LisaRaye McCoy just to name a few.

Forever the entrepreneur, Eleanor is in the planning stages of implementing a radio show, self-publishing her first book and continuing to build her brand.

Eleanor Smith resides in Chicago, IL. Visit Cherish the Soul Entertainment Blog Site: http://cherishthesoul.wordpress.com

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Washington Redskins' QB Donovan McNabb (AP Photo)

Bernard Hopkins questions McNabb's blackness

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PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Donovan McNabb wants to call for the bell and end this onesided fight with Bernard Hopkins.

The agent for the Washington Redskins quarterback and former Philadelphia Eagles star released a statement Thursday that said Hopkins' racially tinged insults about McNabb, "are dangerous and irresponsible."

"It perpetuates a maliciously inaccurate stereotype that insinuates those AfricanAmericans who have access to a wider variety of resources are somehow culturally different than their brethren," Fletcher Smith said.

Hopkins, the former middleweight champion, has verbally bashed McNabb like a punching bag for years. Hopkins, a Philadelphia native and die-hard Eagles fan, has repeatedly criticized McNabb for a variety of perceived grievances. At a workout this week for his upcoming fight, Hopkins took time before a sparring session to rip McNabb.

Referencing skin color, Hopkins said McNabb has, "got a suntan, that's all."

Hopkins has long claimed McNabb wasn't the right quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl championship because he didn't have heart. Now, Hopkins says that's because McNabb was raised in a modest suburb outside of Chicago, and not the gritty south side of the city. Hopkins was raised in a more rough-and-ruthless part of North Philadelphia. Reached by phone Thursday, Hopkins refused to soften his stance on McNabb.

"Look at professional boxing. I've never seen a suburban boxer be successful," Hopkins said. "There has to be something in the DNA of the person's experience, of what they overcame, to have that grit; like, I'm going to bite down and let it happen. I just didn't see that in him."

Hopkins will fight Jean Pascal for the light heavyweight championship May 21 in Montreal. If the 46-year-old Hopkins wins, he'll become the oldest boxer to win a world title.

At the end of a nearly 40-minute press session on Tuesday, Hopkins joked that with the Flyers and 76ers out of the playoffs and the Phillies' season still months from the pennant race, he is Philadelphia's sports "franchise."

"With McNabb out of town, I ain't got to worry about that no more," Hopkins said.

Hopkins was then asked what he thought about Eagles quarterback Michael Vick, who, like Hopkins, was raised in an impoverished community and spent time in prison. Vick served 18 months in federal prison for running a dogfighting ring. Hopkins started boxing in a Pennsylvania state prison, where he served five years beginning at the age of 17.

Hopkins went on an uninterrupted seven-minute, often factually incorrect, ramble that put down McNabb and praised Vick.

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"I can relate, not to what he did, but I can relate to what kind of guy inside he is that McNabb didn't have," Hopkins said at a local gym. "That doesn't make McNabb a bad guy. It goes back to what we always say about upbringing."

McNabb and his agent had enough. Smith detailed McNabb's community service, his "impenetrable integrity," and refused to apologize for how he was raised.

"Donovan's parents are proud Americans who worked hard to give their sons the best childhood they could provide," Smith said. "He is unapologetically proud of sacrifices they made for him. Donovan and his brother were raised to be hard-working AfricanAmerican men who were taught to believe in themselves." McNabb was dragged into unwanted controversies when he played for the Eagles.Conservative radio personality Rush Limbaugh was forced to resign from a gig on ESPN after making negative comments about McNabb in 2003. J. Whyatt Mondesire, the publisher of the Philadelphia Sunday Sun, a black newspaper, wrote in a column that McNabb was "mediocre" and that he found it insulting that McNabb had "concocted reasoning that African-American quarterbacks who can scramble and who can run the ball are somehow lesser field generals."

Wide receiver Terrell Owens saw his relationship with McNabb disintegrate into a fullblown feud a year after they led the Eagles to the Super Bowl. Hopkins has long backed Owens in that fight because he felt the outspoken receiver was more "real."

Hopkins called McNabb a good family man, a good corporate pitch man, and a "fantastic guy." But those qualities haven't been enough to stop Hopkins from attacking McNabb.

"You know how many times I hear in the city, from the hardcore Philly fan, that he's soft?" Hopkins said Thursday. "They're like, 'Yo, Bernard, this guy is soft.' Where do you think it comes from? It's in his DNA, man."

McNabb was criticized in 2006 for injecting a race element into his rift with Owens, saying the receiver's criticism amounted to "black-on-black crime."

Fletcher called for an end to playing the race card.

"It is vital that we extinguish this brand of willful ignorance," he said, "and instill in the minds of African-American youth, regardless of the parental makeup of your household, they can become anything they wish if they work hard and make the right decisions in life."

Source: The Associated Press

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Any discussion of the Civil Rights Movement and the integration of American society cannot begin without noting the contribution of Jackie Robinson breaking the color line in Major League Baseball in 1947.

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