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The Forgotten Ones is a foundation started by local author M’ Roberts. Michael, as he is known by his friends, with the help of his wife, is making a difference in the Puget Sound area. He has a spirit of compassion and giving. He has authored three books, Holier Than Thou, When Rage Doesn’t Help - A Mother’s Pain and Endangered Species and gives 25% of the proceeds from his books to this dynamic charity. These books are available through a variety of online retailers. Show your support, buy a book today! Havens of Hope, Benevolence Health Center Children and Affordable Living Community work in conjunction with The Forgotten Ones to assist kids in a tangible and meaningful way. For more information on how you can help this foundation visit:
www.TheForgottenOnes.Com To contact M’ Roberts, send an email to mroberts@theforgottenone.org. 2
A Rich Heritage By M. Roberts Learn how to appreciate your heritage.
Valentine Love By M. Roberts Loving each other as Christ loves us and we love Christ.
Haiti: History & Hope By Starla L. Fitch Focusing on the history, strength and determination of the Haitian people.
Your Financial Questions Answered! By Patrycia L. Taylor Our resident financial advisor, answers questions from our readers. Check out what was asked and answered, you may have the same questions.
Uterine Fibroids By Dr. Cherita Raines Learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of Uterine Fibroids.
Unsung Heroes Remembering a few dynamic Black Americans whose names and accomplishments may not be familiar to many Americans.
A Session with Chef Amadeus By Chef Amadeus A tasty dinner menu to cook for the one(s) you love!
From Your Table to Your Garden. . . and Back Again By Susan Thoman
In Every Issue A Word from our Editor What People are Saying… Family Activities Calendar Food by Evelyn Ray Southern Fried Green Tomatoes Community Calendar
4 4 7 15 17
Becoming a successful composter in King County.
Urban Life Northwest, February 2010, Volume III, Issue II Publisher/Editor - Starla L. Fitch Copy Editor-Sylvia Fitch Graphic Design-Miklos & Starla Fitch Photography (Edtor’s photo) - Lori Woods Advertising/Marketing - Starla L. Fitch Contributors- Cherita J. Raines MD, MPH, Patrycia L. Taylor, Evelyn Ray, M’ Roberts, Chef Amadeus and Susan Thoman Urban Life Northwest is published monthly. Direct all editorial and subscription inquiries to P.O. Box 94057, Seattle, WA 98124-9457, call (425) 533-7802 or visit our website - www.UrbanLifeNW.com. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without consent. All advertising claims and offers are the sole responsibility of the listed advertiser. Query in advance of article submission; unsolicited materials may not be returned.
Hardcopy back issues available - Order Today! Minimum order 3 issues for $5.00! Additional copies $1.75 each.
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Remembering Black History Month!
A WORD FROM OUR EDITOR
As is traditional, February is Black History Month. This is the one month of the year that we make a concentrated effort to celebrate and remember all that has transpired in this country which has afforded us freedom, opportunity and equality. Our ancestors in America did not have the “easy” life that we have today. They put their lives and livelihood on the line each and every day just to have the things we so often take for granted such as education, the right to vote, the right to live, eat and go anywhere our money will afford and the simple right to do and say, within reason, whatever we so choose, without fear of repercussion. So often we forget the lives that were lost and families that were destroyed so that we could have these things and so much more. I ask that we make the most of this month and every month hereafter. I ask that we educate ourselves and our children about our rich history in this country and abroad. Lastly, I ask that we vow to do better and be better people. If for no other reason than to honor the ancestors who gave us so much. Be sure to check out Unsung Heroes on page 13. ULNW shines a spotlight on a few of our ancestors whose names are often forgotten. See if you are familiar with any of the persons we remembered in this issue. Their contributions to American society might surprise you.
Starla L. Fitch Publisher & Editor
Because of the tragedy in Haiti, I decided to do an article on this dynamic country and its’ remarkable people. Haiti has a strong and interesting history that should be acknowledged, remembered and celebrated. Their history is Black History. See the story on page 8.
Become a fan on facebook! Follow us on twitter! WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING… Dear Urban Life Northwest Magazine (ULNW), Thank you for publishing the story in the January 2010 issue (referring to our cover story - Exposed and Unprotected: Your Life Online) concerning how much of our lives are exposed online. Unfortunately, one case in particular ended in an untimely teenage death. To read the entire story, please locate the story online “Mikarah Sanders (15) was shot dead by her boyfriend over a MySpace comment she received from an ex.” How senseless to take a human life over a comment posted on the internet. Mikarah was full of energy and had expressed her interest in becoming a lawyer in the future. These online services may need to do a better job in respect to warning and educating young people about the potential dangers. In addition, please be mindful of what information is posted online and how others may or may not take the information. Responsibility and maturity are both essential. One reason to be careful about what you put online is that this is a World Wide Web service; everyone does not need to know your business. In Sarah Jean Green’s article “Perhaps, the rest of the story?” she has an update on the tragic story and has provided more information about unhealthy teenage dating. To read her story, please visit - www.examiner.com/x-12193-Seattle-PublicEducation-Examiner~y2010m1d6-Perhaps-the-rest-of-the-story. Ms. Secret Charles - Seattle, WA Received January 14, 2010
Mikarah Sanders, age 15 Dear Ms. Charles, Thank you for taking the time to send such a detailed and heartfelt comment. It is our mission to provide articles that are timely and thought provoking and I think we hit the mark with this one. We appreciate your readership. Starla L. Fitch Publisher & Editor 4
We want to publish your comments, suggestions and compliments in our next issue. Please send your thoughts to wpas@urbanlifenw.com. We love hearing from you!
URBAN LIFE INSPIRATION
By M’ Roberts
Have you ever had someone tell you that you were ugly, lazy, dumb, too skinny, too fat, too dark, too light; too this or too that? There are a number of incredibly negative and ugly things that people will sometimes say to others without realizing the long-term lasting effects that words can have on a person. The sad part is that words can not only be paralyzing, they can also take shape, and hold in our minds to create a false perception of who we really are, and create a barrier of low self-esteem and self-image for many years thereafter. The Book of James, 3:1 -10 tells us about the untamable tongue. While we may very well know that, “Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words can never hurt us,” it doesn’t take away the hurt, guilt or embarrassment that we choose to allow ourselves to buy into, when people speak falsities that reprogram our thinking and reshape our self-images in our lives. That is exactly what the “enemy” does, too. He wants you to have a negative self-image and be riddled with feelings of guilt, worry, shame, defeat, despair and depression, so you are not able to see yourself, as you truly are, and as God sees you. His word says: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. His own special people…” (1st Peter, 2:9.) Many centuries before the late-great, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I have a dream” speech, (and as far back as more than 8,000 years ago) – people whose native origin is from the continent of Africa, (Ghana, Egypt, Sudan and many more) enjoyed being a part of a heritage of people who were much more than merely a world power, but also made significant contributions in engineering/ architecture, i.e., the pyramids, sciences, (medicine and mathematics), irrigation and mechanics. Gold from the African empires provided a means, as well as, the desire by which, some European countries began to take off during the 13th and 14th centuries. African countries had already been importing and exporting with other countries, such as China for many years. Well before George Washington Carver, Garrett Morgan, Benjamin Banneker, Madame Walker, Dr. Daniel Hale, Dr. Ernest Everett Just, Sarah Goode, Lloyd Augustus Hall, or the numerous other African-American inventors, doctors and the many other individuals who have contributed greatly to the strong and successful heritage of African-American people; there was Noah, with whom God was well pleased and used his three sons: Shem, Ham and Japheth to populate the earth and create every culture we know today. (Genesis: 6:9 – 10:32) It doesn’t matter what we look like, what our hair looks like, how big our noses are, how dark or light we are or any other differences we may have. African- American people, Anglo-American people, Asian people, Hispanic people, Native American people and every other culture, all have powerful histories; and most importantly, all come from One origin. Moreover, the Bible tells us, “We are all fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14) Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works.” May you never forget, “For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.” (Hebrews 10:14) It may be Black History month, but every person has a rich and priceless history who acknowledges the fact that they are a child of the one- true King, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. How do I know? He made us a promise in Galatians 3:28-29 and Hebrews 6:17 -18, as well as the aforementioned quote from 1st Peter 2:9. May you realize the beauty and richness that is within you, that God sees in you. M’ Roberts is a motivational speaker, marketing consultant and trainer. He is the author of three books. To contact M’ Roberts send and email to mroberts@creativemarketinggroup.net or see his ad on page 2 in this issue. 5
URBAN LIFE MARRIAGE & FAMILY
By M’ Roberts
For many, February, also known as the month of romance, can be a very exciting time that fosters many romantic feelings, thoughts and emotions. There is little known about the mysterious saint, for whom the Valentine holiday is named. What we do know is there are many vestiges of ancient Roman and Christian traditions intermingled within it. The commercialism associated with the Valentine holiday can potentially trigger a plethora of responses and expectations involving the holiday itself. Whether married, engaged or for those who are dating, there are many unwritten expectations, that have been traditionalized, such as, one must purchase flowers, jewelry, candy, stuffed animals, lingerie, balloons, and/or a host of other gifts, in addition to, a candlelit dinner at a four or five star restaurant. Often, there is an expectation from men that if they have spent their money, some form of payment is automatically owed to them – usually of a physical and erotic nature. While a healthy, loving and romantic relationship between a husband and wife is likely the second most beautiful and fulfilling relationship that one can have, next to our relationship with the Lord; it can be reduced to something much less meaningful when our primary objective is the gratification of our own flesh. Philippians 2:1 -4 says, “Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interest, but also for the interests of others.” The only way to have a Valentine love is by demonstrating the love of Christ 24/7 – 365. “ Love suffers long and is kind, love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up, does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil, does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things endures all things.” 1st Corinthians 13:4-7. In other words, love is much more than a feeling; it is more than an emotion that is said to be stimulated by a chemical reaction in the brain. Love is also a choice. We choose to put the needs of the ones we love ahead of our own. We choose to love unconditionally and sacrificially. We choose to love and accept people as they are without seeking to change them into something our flesh feels they ought to be, instead encouraging them to be all that God has equipped them to be. Love lasts more than a night, and should not be measured based on a single day, or the type/price of gifts, and without the expectation of reciprocity. The purpose for dating is to find someone to court. The purpose for courting is preparation for marriage. The purpose for marriage is for two to become separated from their mother and father, united in love and become one flesh. (Gen 2:24, emphasis added). Instead of one focusing on what he doesn’t have or what’s wrong in his relationship; the relationship will be much more fulfilling if he chooses to focus on what they do have, and all that is right – with God at center of it. February 14th may be the official holiday, but if you truly are in love, everyday with the one you love should be celebrated as a Valentine love – for better or worse -faithfully and unconditionally. M’ Roberts is a motivational speaker, marketing consultant and trainer. He is the author of three books. To contact M’ Roberts send and email to mroberts@creativemarketinggroup.net or see his ad on page 2 in this issue. 6
February 24th – See The Moscow Circus! This production is for children and adults alike, and each show begins as soon as the audience enters the theater. Imagine Russian musicians, clowns, costumed performers, and dancers, as theatergoers walk directly from the street into a traditional Russian Folk Festival atmosphere. Time: 9:30 am and 12:15 pm, Cost: $5.00 & $6.50, Location: Mount Baker Theatre, For more info visit ww.mountbakertheatre.com (BELLINGHAM) February 24th - Come hear the Vienna Boys Choir. Until 1918, the choir sang exclusively for the imperial court, at mass, at private concerts and functions and on state occasions. Today there are around 100 choristers between the ages of ten and fourteen, divided into four touring choirs. The four choirs give around 300 concerts and performances each year in front of almost half a million people. Each group spends nine to eleven weeks of the school year on tour. They visit virtually all European countries, and they are frequent guests in Asia, Australia and the Americas. The choir's repertoire includes everything from medieval to contemporary and experimental music. Location: Performing Arts Center of Wenatchee, Time: 7:30 pm, Cost: $30.00 to $40.00 For more info visit http://www.pacwen.org/ (WENATCHEE) February 27th & 28th – Come to the White Pass Winter Carnival. This family oriented event features the huge snow castle, professional snow sculptors from around the US and Canada, live music, fireworks, Torchlight Parade, Kids' Carnival and snow sports competitions for kids and adults! Location: White Pass Ski Resort, Time: 8:30 am until For more info visit http://skiwhitepass.com/schedule/wintercarnival.cfm (NACHES)
February 14th - Oregon Symphony presents Kids Concert: Musical Valentines. Not all Valentines come in an envelope! This concert celebrates some of the things we love most. Selections include Copland’s music to Our Town and John Williams’ Happy Birthday Variations. The concert concludes with the unforgettable story of The Three Bears danced by Dance West. Cost: $14.00 - $45.00 Location: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, For more info call (503) 228-1353 or visit http://www.orsymphony.org/ (PORTLAND) February 12th to 14th – Bend Winterfest begins! In addition to the ice carving exhibitions, fireworks, Mojo Music Eruption in the Festival Center, children's activities at Snowflake Village, the ever popular U.S. Cellular snowboard and ski rail jam, ice skating, Bend WinterFest will feature an expanded Winter Wine Walk, winter light show, a larger WinterFest Marketplace, and the ever exciting cross country ski sprint races. Where: 520 SW Powerhouse Drive in the Old Mill District, For more info visit www.bendwinterfest.com (BEND)
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By Starla L. Fitch Haiti, a country known for it’s beauty, as well as its’ poverty. A country steeped in history. A history that is rich in spirit, determination and the will to survive. This sums up the Haitian people in a nut shell. Regardless of the devastation, regardless of the degradation, regardless of the hardships, the Haitian people survive. Haitians are the only slaves to successfully rebel and gain their freedom. *The Haitian Revolution (1791–1803) is the period of violent conflict in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, leading to the elimination of slavery and the establishment of Haiti as the first republic ruled by people of African ancestry. Although hundreds of rebellions occurred in the New World during the centuries of slavery, only the revolt on SaintDomingue, which began in 1791, was successful in achieving permanent freedom. The Haitian Revolution is regarded as a defining moment in the history of Africans in the new world. Although an independent government was created in Haiti, its society continued to be deeply affected by the patterns established under French colonial rule. The French established a system of minority rule over the illiterate poor by using violence and threats. The racial prejudice created by colonialism and slavery outlived them both. The post-rebellion racial elite (referred to as mulattoes) were descended from both Africans and white planters. Some had received an education, served in the French military, and even acquired land and wealth. Lighter complected than most Haitians, who were descendants only of enslaved Africans, the mulattoes dominated politics and economics. As Haiti moved forward after this revolution, times would prove difficult and fraught with hardships. Haitian people have always known struggle yet have always persevered.
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There has been political unrest and enumerable natural disasters but nothing can compare to the devastation left by the January 20, 2010 earthquake. The capital of Haiti, Port au Prince, was reduced to rubble. Although, the country of Haiti goes beyond Port au Prince, this was the capital and a major hub for tourism and business. This earthquake brought Haiti to its’ proverbial knees. But as in times past, the Haitian spirit will not be broken. The world was watching and came to their aid. The Haitian people began to once again pick themselves up to start all over. I have nothing but love and respect for the Haitian people. I watched the news day in and day out after the earthquake hit and I was amazed by the miracles. People were pulled from the rubble alive when no one believe anyone could still be alive. It just goes to show that we can never give up, we must “keep hope alive” as in the words of the Rev. Jesse Jackson. For those who were rescued after suffering in rubble for two weeks or more, hope was all they had to cling to and that hope kept them alive. As Haiti works to bounce back from this surreal devastation. We have to do our part to help. It was touching, to say the least, to see how the world has responded to Haiti’s needs. Countries from all across the world have come together to help Haiti. The help that has been provided is just the beginning because much more help will be needed for many years to come. The rescue is over but the recovery has yet to begin. Haiti has to rebuild but where will they start? With so much devastation to deal with, a starting point maybe the most difficult thing to define. Where do you start when everything and everyone needs and deserves attention. Do you start with rebuilding the government? Or do you start with rebuilding the lives of the people? The answers to these and other questions will come in time. In the meantime, keeping people alive and giving them the medical care, housing and food necessary for living is first and foremost.
Before the January 20, 2010 earthquake, the images below, show a beautiful country with unlimited potential.
Presidential palace in Port au Prince, Haiti
Statue honoring unknown freedom fighters in Haiti.
My hope for Haiti is simply this, LIFE. I’ll sum it up in a quote from Star Trek, “live long and prosper” Haiti. Your people and your country deserve a prosperous and happy future.
An open air market in Port au Prince, Haiti.
http://www.hopeforhaiti.com/
* Haitian Revolution information obtained from Wikipedia.
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URBAN LIFE MONEY MATTERS
By Patrycia L. Taylor
When is the best time to start saving for retirement? I am 26 years old and retirement looks like a long way away. First let me commend you for thinking about this topic at age 26. Many people who are at, near, or past retirement age wish they’d started planning and saving a lot sooner than they did. You have the opportunity to get a great head start on your retirement plan. Having said that, the best time to start saving for retirement is NOW! The earlier you start saving, the more time your money will have to grow. Even a little bit of money will work harder for you and compound faster over the years than a lot of money set aside with only a short time to grow. Additionally, at your age you can afford a little more risk, which can potentially lead to higher yields (and/or larger losses). In other words your portfolio may contain a greater mix of stocks than bonds. Make sure you have a target number to work towards. Use a retirement calculator and determine approximate numbers for the age at which you’d like to retire, the amount you’ll need at retirement, and the amount of money you will be able to set aside each pay cycle. With a target number, you will be better able to chart your progress. The fact that you are saving is initially more important than the amount you are saving.
I have a small savings account. Is it best to leave it in the bank to draw interest or do you suggest investing it? If investing, what are the best options for me? BTW, I'm 34 years old and I only have $3000 in savings. Your personal savings or investment goals play a key role when considering options for where to park your money. If you are concerned with earning maximum return with minimum risk for example, you can put your money into a high yield savings account or invest it in a “safe” product in order to yield more interest income than a regular bank savings account. Before you turn your money over, you will need to answer a series of questions. Your advisor needs to know: 1) How much risk you are willing to tolerate; 2) Your time horizon - whether this is a short term or long term investment for you; 3) Your net worth - where this $3,000 stands in relation to your total assets; and 4) several other pertinent questions. Answering these questions will identify your specific investment profile, at which point your advisor would be able to recommend the best investment options for you.
Which is the best investment, gold, gems or greenbacks? That is a good question. You’ve no doubt heard the adage that Cash is King, primarily because of its liquidity, availability and relative stability. Cash can be parked in certain types of accounts and later retrieved without loss of any initial principal value. Although it may potentially lose some of its purchasing power, depending upon the length of time it is parked. But generally, investors hang onto their cash when they feel the economy is eroding. Investors tend to purchase gold coins or bouillon for the same reason others retain their cash – they are not confident in the US market or the US dollar and they want to diversify their portfolio. Generally when the price of stocks and bonds decreases, the demand and price of gold and other metals increases. So there are pros and cons to owning either one of these assets, but the best investment depends upon each investors’ investment objective as well as their perception of the market at the time of purchase consideration.
Do you have financial questions? Please send them to Patrycia at wpas@urbanlifenw.com. *Patrycia L. Taylor, MBA is a Financial Advisor living in South Seattle. You may contact her via email at wpas@urbanlifenw.com. 10
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Contact me to learn more about the many ways you can experience Soul Purpose! Karen Y Alexander 206-948-2164 kyalexander2006@hotmail.com http://majestyliving.soulpurpose.net 11
URBAN LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS
By Cherita Raines, MD, MPH
What are Fibroids? Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. Fibroids are almost always benign (not cancerous). Fibroids can grow as a single tumor or there can be many of them in the uterus. They can range in size from a small apple seed to a large grapefruit. In rare cases, they can be very large. Fibroids are also called leiomyomata or myomas.
Who gets fibroids? Some statistics show that fibroids occur in about 66% of women by the time they reach the age of 50 years old. African American women are 3 times more likely to be affected than other women. In African American women these tumors can occur at an earlier age and are often larger and more symptomatic. Asian women have a lower incidence of symptomatic fibroids. Obesity is associated with fibroids, so is red meat, beef, and ham consumption.
What causes fibroids? The cause of uterine fibroids is unknown. However, lifestyle, age, race, and genetics may play a role.
What are the symptoms of fibroids? • • • • • • • • •
Abnormal uterine bleeding with longer, heavier menstrual periods. Bleeding between menstrual periods occurs in some women. Fatigue caused by anemia (low blood count) from excessive menstrual blood loss. Pelvic pressure when fibroid tumor growth causes an enlarged uterus. Urinary frequency when the enlarged uterus presses on the bladder. Pain in the pelvic region due to worsening menstrual cramps or pressure from the fibroids on other internal organs. Low back pain. Pain during sex. Complications during pregnancy and delivery, including six times greater risk for cesarean section. Infertility preventing pregnancy in some women; in others, miscarriage can occur.
How are fibroids diagnosed? • • •
Pelvic examination to feel for the presence of fibroids. Transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves from a probe inserted in the vagina to determine the size of the uterus and the size and location of any fibroid tumors. Hysteroscopy is a visual inspection of the interior of the uterus using a small, slender device.
How are fibroids treated? Uterine fibroids that cause no symptoms do not require any treatment. Other treatment options vary depending on the size, location, and number of tumors. Treatment also depends on whether the woman wishes to maintain fertility. In some women the tumors can be resected during a hysteroscopy procedure. Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids that preserves the uterus and allows the woman to maintain fertility. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a nonsurgical procedure that blocks the blood flow to the main artery supplying the uterus. This results in shrinkage of fibroids and causes a reduction in the amount of blood loss from menstrual bleeding. There is a chance that fertility will not be maintained for some women. • A hormone-releasing intrauterine device releases progesterone, one of the female hormones, and can be placed inside the uterus to reduce the amount of uterine bleeding in some women with small fibroids • Hysterectomy is surgical removal of the uterus, ending menstrual periods and causing infertility. • •
If you have any questions, please discuss them with your family doctor.
*Dr. Raines is a practicing physician at the UW’s Roosevelt Family Medicine Clinic in Seattle, WA. To contact Dr. Raines, send an email to wpas@urbanlifenw.com 12
URBAN LIFE REMEMBERS
Every year, during the month of February, we take the time to honor those dynamic Black Americans who have made positive contributions to our society. Of course, there are a several black americans who are familiar to us and we can rattle off their names without thought or hesitation. Dynamic people such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, George Washington Carver, Madame C.J. Walker, Benjamin Banneker, Thurgood Marshall, Phillis Wheatley, Fredrick Douglass, Dr. Charles Drew, Langston Hughes and there are many others who are just as easily remembered. Yet, in that same respect, there are even more dynamic Black Americans whose names don’t fall so easily from our lips. It would take several pages in this issue to provide a complete list but I would like to spot light a few of our ancestors who went above and beyond to have their talent, intellect and abilities recognized by a society who never gave them the respect nor financial gain they deserved.
Thomas L. Jennings (1791-1859) A tailor in New York City, Jennings is credited with being the first African American to hold a U.S. patent. The patent, which was issued in 1821, was for a dry-cleaning process.
Norbert Rillieux (1806-1894) Born the son of a French planter and a slave in New Orleans, Rillieux was educated in France. Returning to the U.S., he developed an evaporator for refining sugar, which he patented in 1846. Rillieux's evaporation technique is still used in the sugar industry and in the manufacture of soap and other products.
Hiram Rhodes Revels (1827 – 1901) Revels was the first African American ever elected to the United States Senate. He represented the state of Mississippi from February 1870 to March 1871.
John Mercer Langston (1829 – 1897) Langston was the first black man to become a lawyer in Ohio when he passed the Bar in 1854. When he was elected to the post of Town Clerk for Brownhelm, Ohio in 1855. He became one of the first African Americans ever elected to public office in America.
Lewis Howard Latimer (1848-1929) Born in Chelsea, Mass., Latimer learned mechanical drawing while working for a Boston patent attorney. He later invented an electric lamp and a carbon filament for light bulbs (patented 1881, 1882). Latimer was the only African-American member of Thomas Edison's engineering laboratory.
Edward Alexander Bouchet (1852-1918) Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Bouchet was the first African American to graduate (1874) from Yale College. In 1876, upon receiving his Ph.D. in physics from Yale, he became the first African American to earn a doctorate. Bouchet spent his career teaching college chemistry and physics.
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams (1856-1931) Williams was born in Pennsylvania and attended medical school in Chicago, where he received his M.D. in 1883. He founded the Provident Hospital in Chicago in 1891, and he performed the first successful open heart surgery in 1893.
Frederick McKinley Jones (1892-1961) Jones was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. An experienced mechanic, he invented a self-starting gas engine and a series of devices for movie projectors. More importantly, he invented the first automatic refrigeration system for long-haul trucks (1935). Jones was awarded more than 40 patents in the field of refrigeration.
David Crosthwait, Jr. (1898-1976) Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Crosthwait earned a B.S. (1913) and M.S. (1920) from Purdue University. An expert on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, he designed the heating system for Radio City Music Hall in New York. During his lifetime he received some 40 U.S. patents relating to HVAC systems. We must always remember our history. As the saying goes “those who don’t know their history are doomed to repeat it”. Celebrate 13 Black History because our history IS American History.
URBAN LIFE FOOD
It’s February, the month we express love when we celebrate Valentine’s Day. Instead of doing a romantic dish, I decided to make something that is good for the heart. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, so ladies, here is a heart healthy menu that is as good for the heart as it is to the stomach. Don’t worry men, this menu is simple and women love a man who can cook. Try this menu for your family. Show them you love them by taking care of their heart. Give the gift of love this month with the true passion of cooking healthy for the ones you truly love. We’ll start with some Honey Cinnamon Baked Chicken, and pair it up with two delicious sides of Collard Greens with Rick Pilaf. Enjoy and have a Bumpin good time!
Honey Cinnamon Baked Chicken 4 chicken thighs 1 onion large diced 1 green pepper diced ¼ cup honey 1 tsp. Chino 5** 4 cups cold water (save broth for rice and greens) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Skinless thighs are best but this dish can be prepared either way. In a large baking pan add water, cinnamon, honey, peppers, onions, unsalted spice blend or L’il Bump** and chicken. Cover let cook for about 40 minutes. The additional broth will be a delicious addition to your collard greens and rice. This makes a great meal for 2 but you can serve up to 4 people with this dish.
Collard Greens
Rice Pilaf
1 tbs. olive oil ¼ cups onions 2 cloves garlic ½ cup carrots diced ¼ cup yams diced 1 tsp. fennel 1 lb. ground turkey ¼ cup balsamic vinegar 2 lb. collard greens 2 cup water or chicken broth
1 cup rice (uncooked) ¼ cup onions ¼ cup peppers ¼ cup celery 2 cup chicken broth Season to taste with an unsalted spicy blend or L’il Bump**
First, add olive oil to your pot and turn the stove up to a medium heat. Cook the ground turkey until brown then add onions, peppers, carrots, yams, balsamic vinegar and season with an unsalted spicy blend, I recommend L’il Bump**. Once this has cooked for a few minutes add the greens and broth, let cook till tender.
First, add olive oil to your pot and turn the stove up to a medium heat, add rice and cook for about a minute or until lightly toasted. Next, add peppers, onions, celery and cook until slightly tender. Pour in your broth and bring to a boil. Turn heat down to low and until rice tender yet firm.
**L’il Bump and Chino 5 are special spices created by Chef Amadeus, to get these spices, visit his website at www.ChefAmadeus.com.
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To contact Chef Amadeus or if you have any questions about or other recipes send an email to amadeus@chefamadeus.com
By Evelyn Ray
Ingredients • • • • • •
1 extra large egg 4 tablespoons milk 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 green tomatoes, sliced
Preparation In a small bowl whisk together egg and milk. In another small bowl mix cornmeal and flour. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat; use more or less oil to reach about 1/4 inch in depth. Dredge tomato slices first in egg mixture, then in cornmeal mixture. Carefully place slices in hot oil and cook until browned on both sides.
For Additional Flavor Add salt and a dash of garlic powder for taste.
*Evelyn Ray is the owner of Royal Catering. You may contact Evelyn at royalcatering@yahoo.com.
1408 22nd Avenue Seattle, WA 98122
www.cappysgym.com (206) 322-6410
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URBAN LIFE GREEN
By Susan Thoman Climate change is one of the most prevalent drivers for social change in our country right now. In our community, you can see that the world is awakening to a widening awareness that what we do, eat, buy and practice shapes our environmental future. One of the highest impacts you can make on a more sustainable community is to remember to reduce, reuse and recycle whenever you can. I am one of the lucky residents with a rewarding job in a green company making a difference in this area. Last March, the City of Seattle made it possible for residents to add bones, dairy and meat trimmings (in addition to vegetative material already accepted) to single family residential yard waste carts. Most cities in suburban King County also have this service now. The food and yard clippings are shipped to Cedar Grove Composting’s facilities (where I am employed) and made into earth-friendly compost. Compost then goes back into yards and gardens to grow natural, healthy plants and landscapes. A family of four generates between 400500 pounds of recoverable food waste every year. Between uneaten food from homes and businesses, food waste makes up between 30-35% of what is sent to the landfill. When we don’t put that valuable food in our yard carts to be composted, it ends up going over 200 miles away on a train where the shipment and land filling contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions which lead to climate change. In my own family, we generate our fair share of stale cereal, chicken bones, uneaten rice, dried up pretzels, and those last two tortilla shells that seem to curl up at the edges until they just aren’t appealing anymore. Also, kitchen paper towels used to pat the chicken or dry your hands can also be put into your yard waste cart. If you have teenagers, you may have your fair share of soiled pizza boxes that can’t go into the recycling bin because they are contaminated with sauce or threads of cheese. The large delivery boxes are awkward and have always been problematic because they take up so much room in the garbage can. Now- you can tear them into your yard waste cart and have them hauled away with your grass clippings. The key to being a successful and daily food waste collector is having a system that works right for you. I know that in my own early efforts, the mess in an unlined , heavy ceramic container got the best of me and I constantly heard the “ooh-icks” and gripes about the smell and fruit flies from my husband and son. I then purchased a breathable kitchen bucket and compostable bags, and that really cut down on the mess while making it easy every night to toss in garlic bread heals and the leftover peas. I pull the bag out, walk it to the yard bin every other day, and now don’t miss a chance to recover every available morsel. Cities across King County have made it easy for all of us to do our part to make a difference with this program.. If you are in a multi-family condo or apartment unit, services are now expanding throughout Seattle to service those buildings as well. Find out more about the various programs by contacting your garbage and recycling company for more information. You can also visit King County’s website at www.recyclefood.com. *Susan Thoman has been working in the environmental field since 1986. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Washington State Recycling Association, and also has a passion for writing about community sustainability.
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February 12th & 13th – Gin Hammond’s Returning the Bones. Acclaimed Seattle actress Gin Hammond's inspiring, 26-character solo play, "Returning the Bones," transports audiences to rural Texas during the era of Jim Crow laws and into the life of a young, black medical student searching for her place in the world. Based on the life of Hammond's aunt, Dr. Caroline Beatrice Montier (aka "Bebe"), now 84, "Returning the Bones" brilliantly responds to one of life's most challenging questions: How do you choose between your country, your people and yourself? Where: Hugo House, 1634 11th Ave, Time: 7:30pm, Cost: $17.50 pre-sale or $22.00 at the door. For tickets visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/92682 or visit www.ginhammond.com. (SEATTLE) February 14th - Tacoma Philharmonic Presents The Fisk Jubilee Singers. One of America's most celebrated musical ensembles. The Fisk Jubilee Singers introduced 'slave songs' to the world in 1871 and were instrumental in preserving this unique American musical tradition known today as Negro spirituals. They broke racial barriers in the US and abroad in the late 19th century and entertained Kings and Queens across Europe. Location: Pantages Theater, Time: 7:30 pm, Cost: $32.50 - $62.50 For more info visit call 253-272-0809 or visit www.broadwaycenter.org (TACOMA) February 19th – The Harlem Globetrotters 2010 Magical Memories World Tour comes to the ShoWare Center. Come see their high-flying basketball acrobatics in a show good for all ages. Time: 7:00 pm, Cost: $19.00 - $74.00, For more info visit www.showarecenter.com. (KENT) February 20th – Don’t miss the 2010 Mardi Gras in Concrete. Plan now to experience the goofiness and gaiety of Mardi Gras, Concrete style, with a parade down Main Street (aka "Bourbon Street") and lots of fun for the whole family. Music, activities and contests - don't miss the fun! Location: Maryhill Winery and Amphitheatre, For more info visit http://concrete-wa.com/events.php?ident=15 (CONCRETE) March 4th – 7th - The Legendary Mavis Staples will be performing at Jazz Alley. 4 nights 6 shows! Don’t miss this opportunity to see an R&B pioneer. With the groundbreaking family gospel group The Staple Singers ("I’ll Take You There", "Respect Yourself", etc) and on her own, Mavis is responsible for blazing a rhythm & blues trail while never relinquishing her gospel roots. Touring in support of her latest release, We’ll Never Turn Back produced by Ry Cooder, She is a lifetime Grammy Award winner, National Heritage Fellowship award winner and a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. Set times Thursday & Sunday at 7:30pm and Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm and 10:00pm. Doors open at 5:30pm all nights. Cost: $35.00 For more info visit www.jazzalley.com. (SEATTLE)
February 13th – Visit the Annual Charleston Crab Feed! Give crabs to your sweetie for Valentine's Weekend! Fresh Dungeness Crab Dinners, whole or half crabs at $15 & $9, includes beans, salad, bread and beverage. All proceeds help support the Charleston Visitor Center. Location: Old Charleston School House, Seven Devils Road, Time: 11am-4pm For more information, call Mel Campbell at 541-888-4875, the Coos Bay Visitor Center at 541-269-0215 or visit www.oregonsadventurecoast.com (COOS BAY) February 19th - 3rd Friday Art Walk. No need to RSVP. Art Walk is where people mingle and network, see and come to be seen. Ever-changing mix of live music, poetry, artist demonstrations, wine tastings. Fashion shows accompanied by fizzing techno beats and wearable sculptures, toxic-colored human hair extensions and wigs worn by live models. Recyclable cardboard sculptures and unexpected extravaganzas. Guerrilla gourmet food by local restaurants. Affordable artwork for purchase by local artists. Artful pleasures are the best revenge. Make a love connection, attend the artwalk ! Location: Historic Downtown Medford, For more info call (541) 8904940 or visit www.thirdfridayartwalk.org (MEDFORD) February 21st – 28th – Don’t miss the Portland Jazz Festival. The 2010 Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air Portland Jazz Festival presented by US Bank supports jazz outreach programming in area schools and community centers. Location: Throughout Portland, For more info call (503) 228-5299 of visit http://www.pdxjazz.com/ (PORTLAND)
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2 Men, 2 Ideologies, 1 Dream. Urban Life Northwest remembers Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and others who paved the way for freedom and justice. We celebrate Black History Month!