Winter ‘07
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This Season, It's All About Me!
A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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The Maryland Lottery庐 encourages responsible play. Remember, it始s just a game.
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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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“These are a few of my favorite things…”
A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers The Baltimore Afro-American Newspaper 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 554-8200 The Washington Afro-American Newspaper 1917 Benning Road NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 332-0080 John J. Oliver Jr. Chairman/Publisher Director of Marketing Ammanuel Moore Director of Advertising Susan Warshaw Sales Robert Blount Michaela Blanchard Marquise Goodwin Annie Latsu Jessie Murphy Editor Rev. Dorothy Boulware Electronic Editor Shanise Winters Contributing Writers Tiffany Ginyard Zenitha Prince Beverly Richards Catherine Kibirige-Shacklett Michelle Wright Graphic Designer Perry Sweeper
“So the holidays are finally here, whether we want to admit it or not. The jingle bells have been ringing since the day after Halloween. Decorations and ornaments have eased into the malls and shopping centers little by little until store lobbies and aisles finally took on the look of Santa’s workshop or a wintery wonderland. Face it, winter’s afoot and the holiday season is here. During this festive period, however, Trends is taking a look at the theme of giving differently. The last two winter/holiday editions focused on the spirit and rewards of giving. This edition we want to focus on giving, but dare we say it… giving to ourselves. If you’re anything like me or the people I know, as busy as we are, we always take the time to make sure other people are taken care of—parents or family need an extra hand around the house. Kids need a few items for school or extracurricular activities. The car requires its usual check up and even the dog gets a treat from time to time. The one person that often gets neglected, (though not by choice) is me. If we could re-design the cosmos, each of us would choose to be the center of the universe from time to time. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. So this edition of Trends is all about me, which is to say all about you. Throughout these pages, we will encourage you to indulge in the things that tickle your fancy. The comfort food you like to eat when diet and calories are not an issue. Beverly Richards writes about folks who will not only “stage” your house for immediate sale, but will decorate your home to fit the holiday or special occasion. While many people look forward to staying home for the holidays, some do prefer to find places to get away. Tiffany Ginyard clues us in on the perfect venue for relaxation this time of year as she shares her experience staying at a local bed and breakfast. Trends editor, Dorothy Boulware also suggests a great place for a family reunion or second honeymoon. Do you ‘re-gift’? Ever get a gift you didn’t want or experienced the sadness of not getting something you truly desired. Zenitha Prince talks to some ‘experts’ who share their strategies and tell how to use the power of suggestion to get small and large gifts. As this time of the year is filled with traditions across the globe, many countries recognize the holidays differently than what we’re accustomed to. In these pages we explore celebrations around the Diaspora; perhaps we can find new ways to enjoy our time of merriment. As bustling as this time is for all of us, I invite you to carve some time out of your schedule to enjoy this edition and relax. After all, this still is a season of peace and goodwill. So on behalf of the entire Trends staff, peace and prosperity to you and your loved ones.
Photographer John Moore
John J. Oliver Jr. Chairman/Publisher
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Contents 6 Myrtle Beach 8 Event Calendar 9 Recipes for the Holidays 10 The Perfect Getaway 12 It’s in the Bag 16 Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago 17 A Ugandan Christmas 17 Kwanzaa in the City 18 The Magic of Christmas Without the Headache 20 Classic Toys 21 “Seriously Simple Holidays’: A Book Review
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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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Seated left to right: Tiffany Ginyard, Jessie Murphy, Michaela Blanchard, and Shanise Winters
Standing: Dorothy Boulware, Zenitha Prince, Perry Sweeper, and Beverly Richards
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Courtesy photo
Island Vista Hotel in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Myrtle Beach By Dorothy Boulware
alking along the shores of Myrtle Beach we imagined this to be the most beautiful place in the world, at least on that early September morning. Making our own footprints in the sand reminded us of a walk we took 39 years earlier in a warm but insistent August downpour bursting to get to family and friends with news of our hour-old engagement. It was a whirlwind romance; first date July 17, engagement announced August 9 with an intimate wedding gathering to follow on September 21. It didn’t matter what anyone said to us. We knew our love was strong enough to take us wherever we needed to go, together. And now, 39 years, 4 children and 4 granddaughters later, we found in Myrtle Beach, the perfect place for a celebration, a look back with our toes writing remembrances in the sand and a look forward to more years and more grandchildren. It was so romantic listening to the crashing of the waves on the beach throughout the night, from our expansive three-bedroom, three bathroom, full kitchen condominium on the
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fourth floor that allowed for quiet introspection and taking in the sights without hindrance. Our vantage point, the Island Vista Resort, sits comfortably in the mid section of the beach in a residential part of town so families and children can safely wander the beach without being overwhelmed by sheer numbers. It was hard to drag myself away from my porch to go down and mingle with the “little” people. Being an introvert, I could have spent the entire weekend in that spot, as long as someone brought in food. Which we did the first night, because I refused to leave the balcony. But the second night, we dined in the exquisite condo restaurant. Actually…Carolina crab cakes sandwiched between fried green tomatoes. My husband had a shrimp creole dish that he found quite satisfying. And can I tell you about the pecan pie – not the so-sweet-it’s-an-instanttoothache variety – this was light and airy with just a hint of sweetness. It was the first time I’ve been able to eat an entire slice, no need for coffee or the ice cream that came with it. The hospitality is graciously provided, and has been for more than 100 years, by the Chapman family who own
the establishment previously known as the Sea Island. “We grew up in the business. I actually waited tables along with some of the employees who are still working with us,” said Julie Chapman, including her brother, Steve, the general manager. “One of the unique features of the Island Resort is that we still offer meal plans,” Steve said. “It’s something all the resorts used to do but most have abandoned. It makes the stay a little more affordable.” He said they are able to offer special prearranged meals for larger groups and accommodate them in a separate banquet room. Units range from 1-4 bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and include full kitchens and washer and dryer. We really didn’t want to leave when the long weekend was over, so we spent the last morning walking barefoot on the beach one more time. We laughed and dreamed out loud about retiring to such a place in a few years. Our revelry was interrupted when we encountered Janice and her children. She said her family vacations every year were in Myrtle Beach but this was the first time the entire Goins family
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came for the annual reunion. “And we voted to come back every year because we love this place,” she said. The higher than medium cost was absorbed in the number of family members that attended. “We have about 35 family members here and everyone is really enjoying it.” IBM employee Deborah Bridges flees the beach during the summer season when the tourists descend. “Oh yeah, I let my family members and friends use my condo during the summer. It’s too crowded. Too many people on the beach,” she said as she took her morning stroll. Since she can work from home, what better site to choose than the sights and sounds of the oceanside resort. The golfer originally from New York has lived in Myrtle Beach for six years and finds the community more welcoming than in earlier years.
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Calendar of Upcoming Events December 26 2007 Urban Music Concert Series 8 p.m., H20, 500 Water Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. Information: www.takenbystorment.com December 28 Ella (play) 8 p.m., Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. Information: www.arenastage.org/season/07-08/ella December 29 Keith Sweat * Johnny Gill * Raheem DeVaughn * Chrisette Michelle 8 p.m., Constitution Hall, 18th and C Streets, N.W., Washington, D.C. Information: www.ticketmaster.com
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January 12 Black and White Candlelight Ball to salute Black women trailblazers,7 p.m., Carlyle on The Green, Farmingdale, N.Y. Information: 516-445-8280 and/or visit www.li100bw.org January 12-19 Black Ski Mini-Summit Breckinridge, Colorado Information: www.Blackbeachweek.com January 14-20 Barbados Jazz Festival: Paint it Jazz Information: www.Blackbeachweek.com January 25-27 2008 Honda Battle of the Bands Atlanta, Georgia
February 1-4 Superbowl Weekend University of Phoenix, Glendale, Arizona February 13-16 Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit LaQuinta Resort and Club Palm Springs, California February 14-18 NBA All Star Weekend February 16 Full Circle Dance Company Sacred Body: In Response to Religion, Baltimore Museum of Art. Information: 410-235-9003
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two pieces, wrap each in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Working with one piece of dough at a time, roll it into a circle about 14 inches around. Use cookie cutters to cut out cookies, rerolling and cutting the scraps. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheets. They can be close; they don’t spread. Bake the cookies, reversing the pans midway through (top to bottom, bottom to top), 12 to 15 minutes (less time for softer cookies, longer for crispier). Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool. Repeat with remaining dough. Decorate as desired. Recipe from King Arthur Flour
ONION SOUP WITH CHAMPAGNE, PORT AND CAMEMBERT
RECIPES FOR THE HOLIDAYS By J.M. Hirsch These oatmeal cookies from the folks at King Arthur Flour offer a fresh take on cutout cookies intended for decorating, which traditionally are either sugar cookies or gingerbread. CHEWY OATMEAL DECORATING COOKIES Start to finish: 1 1/2 hours Makes 6 1/2 dozen cookies 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter 3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar 1 large egg 2 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ginger 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
2 cups all-purpose flour In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla, salt, baking powder, cinnamon and ginger. Beat until smooth. Scrape the bottom and sides, then beat in the oats and both flours. The mixture may look dry at first, but will come together. Divide the dough into
Start to finish: 9 to 10 hours (30 minutes active) Servings: 6 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 4 large white onions, thinly sliced 3 cup beef broth 3 cups dry Champagne, left open for a few hours to go flat Three 1-inch rounds Camembert cheese, rind removed 3 large eggs 1/4 cup Port Place the butter in a medium or large slow cooker, cover and cook on high until the butter melts. Add the onions and toss to coat. Cover and cook on high until the onions are dark brown and caramelized, but not burned, about 8 to 9 hours. Add the broth, cover and cook on high for 15 minutes. Add the Champagne and cheese, cover and cook another 10 to 30 minutes, or long enough to melt the cheese into the soup. Stir the soup to mix in the cheese. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and Port. While whisking, ladle about a cup of the hot soup into the egg mixture. Then, while whisking Continued on pg. 22
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The Perfect Getaway
By Tiffany Ginyard
Your “to-do” list is a mile long, and it seems for every item you check off, ten more appear. Every time you turn around, something else needs to be done or someone is calling on you for something. Not the story of your life? Keep living. The key to managing the inescapable “to do” list however, is making sure your name appears at the very top of the list most of— if not all— the time. All too often in life we find ourselves so busy being busy, we rarely take time to enjoy ourselves by ourselves. Even during the frenzy of this holiday season, when you’re being bombarded by the spirit of giving, make sure you give yourself the gift of “me time.” Courtesy photo
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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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Steal Away There are countless ways to spend quality time with yourself—journaling, luxuriating in a hot Jacuzzi tub, curling up with a good book, indulging in a full body message, and the list goes on. But how about spicing “me time” up a bit? Steal away. That’s right, before you lose your sanity, before the paperwork on your desk swallows you whole, before the kids ask for anything else. Pack your overnight bag; gas up the car and go. You ask where to? Akwaaba, a bed and breakfast in Washington, D.C. Time to relax, relate and release...
About Akwaaba DC Located in the heart of the District, Akwaaba DC boasts top-notch hospitality and an atmosphere that’ll take “me time” to another level. Once inside the historic townhouse in Dupont Circle, stress, anxiety and tension will have no choice but to flee. The scent of fresh flowers, a warm décor, soft music echoing from the living room and the gentle spirit of Joanna, the innkeeper, will greet you at the door to usher you into an unforgettable experience. Designed with a literary theme to celebrate the rich contributions African-American writers have made to American culture, guests have a choice to lodge in one of eight spacious rooms, ranging from the Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, Toni Morrison and Walter Mosley suites to the Romance, Science Fiction or Poetry suites—all equally aweinspiring and serene. Each guest room includes air conditioning, a TV with VCR or DVD, a clock radio/CD player, a personal telephone, candles and private bathrooms with plush robes to help make a smooth transition into your comfort zone.
selection of good reads from the classics down to the contemporary works of African-American literature. And why not grab a beer or a glass of wine to go with it? Akwaaba hosts an evening happy hour for guests daily. This is also a chance for you to meet other guests and —if you choose— engage in friendly conversation. If you’ve booked the Langston Hughes or Zora Neale Hurston suite, you could always retreat to your room, light some candles and soak in the Jacuzzi tub or spend some time on the balcony overlooking the city. And before it’s all said and done, be sure to take advantage of the in-room spa services Akwaaba has to offer.
crucial for you, but it’s also beneficial for the people around you. As often as you can, get away to a quiet place where you can reconnect with and reenergize yourself. Akwaaba is that place. In addition to D.C., there are also Akwaaba inns located in Cape May, NJ (Akwaaba By the Sea and Akwaaba At Buttonwood Manor); Brooklyn, NY (Akwaaba Mansion) and New Orleans, La., (Akwaaba In The Bayou) just in case you ever decide to really get away. Check the Web site www.akwaaba.com for special packages, availability and rates. Make your reservations today, because this season is all about you.
Make it a habit Remember to always fill your cup first. Taking “me time” is not only
‘Indulge in a return to splendor’ So you’ve made your getaway and found peace in one of the luxurious rooms at Akwaaba— which means “welcome” in the akan language of Ghana, West Africa. Now it’s time to spoil yourself. If curling up with a good book is your thing, you could not have picked a better a place. At Akwaaba there’s a packed bookshelf in every room for you to enjoy a wide
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It’s in the Bag!
Getting the gifts you want for the holidays By Zenitha Prince
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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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T
he mound of gaily wrapped boxes sits with an air of importance under the verdant canopy of the fairy-dusted Christmas tree. Shrouded in multi-hued layers of secrecy, the glittered packages wink invitingly, no, tauntingly at you, promising to deliver the desires of your heart—maybe. They’ve made those promises before, like last year when that red-and-gold-striped box with the saucy bow invited you to believe your husband had gotten you the diamond tennis bracelet you’d been eyeing for months. But, instead, it contained a beautiful-yet-hardly-unique, definitelynot-what-you-wanted sterling silver bangle. This time around, you’re determined to stifle all hope. But the gifts are bedazzling, encouraging hope, daring you to dream and a betraying sliver of excitement creeps in. Your hands make a desperate scramble towards an interestingly-medium-sized package, clawing at the wrapping until all is revealed. It’s…a phone! Your husband remembered. But, wait. Isn’t that a replica of the one you already have? Hello! Can you say, iPhone? That’s what you say in your head; outside, you offer your cheerful hubby a wan smile. Hope crumbling, you brave the other gifts—a cookbook (is that a commentary on your Thanksgiving meal?); a tea-brown sweater (so not your color)…all that’s needed is a pair of socks and the tragedy of disappointment will be complete…they’re pink with purple rosettes. In life, and at Christmas, this scenario occurs way too often. “Usually people get some of what they want but they seldom get what they really, really want,” said David Straker, author, ChangingMinds.org, a Web site dedicated to the art of persuasion. That’s because getting what you want requires much more than just desire, added Dave Lakhani, author or Persuasion: The Art of Getting What You Want. “Most people don’t get what they really want because they don’t take an active role in getting it,” he said. Straker and Lakhani, who gained their wisdom from professional experience, and others shared some tips on how to ensure that Santa delivers the goods.
Some Ground Rules Be realistic: “Don’t set yourself up for failure,” advised Diane Hocker, 51, a community relations manager, wife, mother and grandmother. “Know what you’re working with and don’t have unrealistic expectations about what the person you’re with can provide.” Do your homework: You should have all the information about the gift so there are no nasty surprises and you should also understand the person you’re looking to persuade. “You have to know the gift giver because the same technique won’t work for everyone,” said Lyndon Cornwall, 30, an engineer and graduate student. Leave them wanting (to give more): There is a fine line between persuasion and manipulation, be careful not to cross that line. “At the end of the day,” Lakhani said, “if people feel like they’ve been duped orr tricked into buying a gift, they won’t feel el good about buying you a gift the nextt time. The gift should be a natural progression of your relationship.”
The Direct Approach Coming right out and asking for what you want was a favorite technique among the panel. “If it’s something that I really want, I just ask for it and nine times out of 10 I get what I want,” said Hocker. It’s an approach that is especially effective when you’re dealing with men. “Men are not mind readers. If I make a vague request, like saying I want jewelry when in my mind I wanted a bracelet and he [instead] buys me an earring then I’d be pissed off,” she said. “I make it very clear what I want.” Subtlety is sometimes overrated, Lakhani agreed. “The problem with subtlety is that it doesn’t always work,” he said. “To help people deliver what you want, you have to give them a map.”
Persuasion Still, bluntness has its drawbacks. “Some people are contrary,” Cornwall said, “and may buy something other than what you want to maintain the surprise element.”
Surprise is an integral part of the theater of holiday giving, an element that many people prefer to maintain. So how do you ensure that the surprise is a welcome one? Make your preferences known: “Make it known to people the kind of stuff that you like so you won’t have to drop too many hints,” said Trenae Pitts, 19, only child and oldest granddaughter who says most of her loved ones know she prefers shoes, clothing and accessories from stores like BeBe, American Eagle, Coach and Nordstrom. Create a picture: Sit down with someone and “dream” together, Lakhani suggested. You create a safe place where you and your loved one can express the desires of your heart without censure or pressure. Play on the emotions: “Emotion is the biggest persuader there is,” Lakhani said. “Emotion helps people buy into the gift. The more emotion you can attach to the gift, the more likely you are to get it.” One way to tap into emotion is to tell a story around the gift. For example if you want a rare book as a present you would tell a story like this: “My granddad and I were really close. We shared so many interests, especially, a love of books. My most treasured possession is a dog-eared paperback copy of Hemingway’s For Whom the Bell Tolls that my granddad passed on to me. I’ve actually been trying to find an original copy….” “Create tension and let it build,” Straker said. Persuading is partly about using the natural tendency to want to “bridge the tension gap between sadness and happiness.” Example: Sitting on the sofa before the TV, you sigh, look sad. Your parent, friend or significant other naturally asks, “What’s wrong?” You can hem and haw a while but then you associate your sadness with the fact that you don’t have the item. Maybe a few days later, if you’re passing the establishment that sells the gift, you slow down, look longingly at the item in the window and move on. “The tension builds and builds until they go out and buy the item for you. Then the tension becomes excitement because they can’t wait to give it to you. Continued on pg. 15
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Continued from pg. 13
It’s an act of closure for them.” “Persuasion is about changing how people feel not so much what they think,” Straker added. “Don’t try to persuade someone when they are in a bad mood but when they are relaxed and feeling good.” And it helps to be nice to the person, he added. Make them think they’re getting a bargain: Everyone loves a bargain. For example if you want a $300 ring, mention someone having bought one for their significant other for $600. Make it as painless as possible: Help reduce the impact on the person’s pocketbook. “If it’s an expensive gift, give them enough time to save. For example, if you want the gift for Christmas you have to drop hints before Thanksgiving so they can get it cheap on Black Friday,” Cornwall suggested, or send coupons for places where the wanted item(s) can be found. Widen the net: “The expert gift acceptee will make sure they offer several options,” Cornwall said. Men are from Mars and women are from Venus: Men and women are motivated by different things. Men, for example are interested in status, while women are interested in relationships. “If four men go out to a restaurant and the bill is $150 they’ll each throw out $50 and no one will pick up the change. Women, [on the other hand] will pull out the calculator. So to persuade a man [to buy a gift], convince him it’s largesse and if he sees other men are doing it he won’t want to be bested,” Lakhani said. For success with a woman, however, “make them think they are making someone feel better.” Use an ambassador: Let someone else in your circle know exactly what you want, so if your significant other approaches that person for some suggestions, he or she can feed the right ideas. What’s in it for them: It helps if the gift giver believes he or she will benefit from the gift. Example: lingerie. Need I say more?
org, touching another person during a conversation influences the other person very strongly. So try touching the other person when you hint about your “perfect gift.” Stir their curiosity: A novel request piques people’s interest. Try asking for a 4.833 carat ring instead of 5 carats. Signs, signs everywhere: Planted evidence is a tried and true method of persuasion. Try folding the page of a magazine showing the pocketbook you want, or pausing on a commercial.
Knocking down objections Even with all these subtle hints and direct requests, sometimes the gift giver may prove a tough nut to crack. Here are some ways to deal with objections suggested by ChangingMinds.org: Preemptive strike: Tackle and disarm potential objections head on so the person cannot bring it up him or herself. It’s all in the word: Make the objection more palatable by renaming it. For example if the person says the gift is expensive, say instead that it is an “investment.”
©2006
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Fruit Festival with Dipped Bananas
Boomerang—turn objection back on them: For example, Yes, it is expensive, but I don’t think you would want to buy your wife a cheap present. Shame on you: If all else fails, shame them into buying it. Pitts said that is what she had to do last year. “Last year I told my boyfriend I wanted this sweater and vest from American Eagle. We went to the mall and I saw it and asked him to buy it but he told me it was too expensive. I was in American Eagle getting ready to cry and he just gave me the money and told me to go get the sweater. On Christmas I realized he had bought the vest already, from online, so I ended up with the sweater and the vest.” Finally, hope springs. Now you are armed with just some of the ways to ensure that your holiday gifts are just what you asked for. Unless you’re talking about grandma’s hand-knitted socks, of course—there are some gifts you just cannot escape.
Reach out and touch: According to a study referenced on ChangingMinds.
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Photo courtesy of Tourism Development Company Limited
Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago By Zenitha Prince Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago is an immersion into a rich decadence of aromas and tastes but mostly, sounds. Known as the land of calypso, soca and steelpan during most of the year, T&T, at Christmas time, becomes the land of parang. Rooted in the country’s Amerindian but mostly Hispanic heritage, parang is the multi-faceted expression of the effervescent, bounteous and eternally optimistic spirit of the nation’s people. The word “parang” comes from the Spanish word “parranda” which means spree, the act of merry making or a group of serenaders. In T&T, parang refers not only to the genre of music, but to dance (Castillian waltz, salsa, meringue and more), food and communal fellowship. Traditional parang bands or “Parranderos” are the equivalent of carolers—but of a more tempestuous, unrestrained sort. They consist of four to six singers, usually dressed in gaily-colored, traditional Spanish peasant garb, accompanied by musicians who play guitar, cuatro, mandolin (bandolin), violin, cello (violoncello), bandol (bandola), box bass, tambourine, clapper, toc-toc (claves), wood block pollitos, tiple, scratcher (güiro) and maracas (chac-chac or shak-shak). Often starting before daybreak on Christmas morning, parranderos go from house to house, serenading their residents with songs. Traditional parang tunes are sung in Spanish and are based on religious themes, usually on the story of Christ’s birth and the peace and goodwill evoked by the season. “Alegria, alegria Se nacio el Señor 16 Trends
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Hosanna, Hosanna The Savior is born
Para salvar al hombre Y ser su redentor En Belen de Judea La Virgen Maria Pario al niño Rey de Israel.”
To save man And to be his redeemer In Bethlehem of Judea The Virgin Mary Gave birth to a son The King of Israel
~Chorus of “Alegria” one of the more popular parang songs by the world renown folk singer Daisy Voisin. More recent subgenres include soca-parang, a fusion of the traditional soca and parang usually sung in English and based on secular themes, including North American traditions like Santa Claus, and soca chutney parang, which blends in the nation’s East Indian heritage. At each house, the parranderos are usually greeted by a sumptuous repast of traditional food and drinks that include: pastelles (savory chicken or pork-filled cornmeal patties); paime (sweet pastelles); ginger beer; sorrel (a cider-like drink); homemade wines and liquor of which “babash” is the most popular); rum; ponche de crème (a traditional eggnoglike drink which includes a healthy dose of rum); hams; alcohol-laced fruit cakes and more. As the group moves on, people usually join in, adding their voices to the melodies or playing homemade instruments like bottle-and-spoon, fork and graters or anything that can add to the rhythm. Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago is a buoyant celebration of the country’s religious roots, cultural heritage, family, friends and the generosity of its people; a fitting segue into the pageantry of the Carnival season. A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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A UGANDAN CHRISTMAS By Catherine Kibirige-Shacklett My fondest childhood Christmas memories are of those extra special Christmases when we went to Uganda. My sister and I were born in Kenya you see, our family fled to Nairobi along with many other Ugandans during “Amin’s Times” and although there was a thriving Ugandan community every family I knew tried their hardest to make it home for Christmas. My mother’s family always had either Christmas day and/or boxing day in “Katale” my Mum’s home village–at our family home. It was and still is to a lesser extent a family tradition for each family to put on some kind of Courtesy photo performance. It was always exciting for us as children to find out if our cousins would be coming to Uganda too, and what song or play they were going to sing or do. Sometimes we’d do joint family performances and would have tons of fun visiting cousins or having them over to practice. The trip to Uganda was always an adventure especially if we were traveling with another family. Home coming was always a joy-filled festivity catching up with relatives we had not seen in a long time. There were always too many names and faces to keep track of and we were always spending a night or two one place and then moving on to another place trying to By Michelle Wright visit as many relatives as possible during our short vacation. There was always the toss up between Christmas with my On Christmas Eve, my mom, my daughter, Alex, and I Dad’s family and New Year’s with my Mum’s or vice versa. visit the grave sites of my grandparents. The next morning Christmas in Katale though was always a grand affair. Jjajja we do presents and spend the day with the extended family. Nyonyintono – my grandmother–was well known in the But at our house…it’s Kwanzaa. We light the candles village. My grandfather–when he was alive was a local paseach day and attend programs and parties throughout the tor and leader in the community. They had a lot of land and metropolitan area. Some public celebrations, others with my were known for taking in, pastoring and raising many chilfriends. dren and families. It was always a very extended family affair I also lead the Kwanzaa celebration at the Druid Hill and always very well organized because there were so many YMCA for the Pan Afrikan Youth Development group. helping hands around. We always got roped into helping with Last year Alex had a Kwanzaa slumber party with her serving food – “matooke” – plantains, cassava, sweet potafriends, all members of the Duafe History Club. While the toes, peanut sauce, yams, fish, chicken, all kinds of greens – girls worked on dresses for their upcoming performance as all cooked traditionally over a wood fire, steamed in banana Black women of note, we ate and talked about the principles. leaves. Roast goat meat was our equivalent of turkey and no Also, one night during the season, at least 15 family memone cooks it the way the “country folk” do. There were also bers come to the house and we share hand made holiday. the fruits which were a real treat to me – much larger and Last year, I gave scrapbooks. One year a taped interview riper and much more of a variety than we were used to getwith my grandfather on a CD with a specially designed cover. ting in Nairobi – which has a more arid climate. There were Another, after my grandparents died, I drew a family tree always tons of kids playing in the compound. Then there with photos and framed one for each family. were the family performances that were always a real comedy as well as a lesson in family history as each family introduced itself and explained its connection with the “Nyonyintono’s.” There were always funny and fascinating childhood stories and memories that the elders shared. Growing up in Kenya, we were deprived of a lot of the family and Ugandan traditions and this was our way of catching up and absorbing as much of it as we could before we sadly had to leave not knowing if it would be another year or more before we could make it back.
in the City
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The Magic of Christmas Without the Headache By Beverly Richards
T
he holidays are upon us, and there are many things that can spark the Christmas spirit inside of us — family, the smell of freshly baked cakes and sweet potato pies, and cold weather. But nothing ignites the magical feelings of Christmas like holiday decorations. Mammoth red bows, wreaths, garland, trees and lights adorn homes, in hopes of creating a warm and welcoming feeling. And with all of that, what most folks would not give to be able to skip the tedious task of designing and installing their holiday décor. If the idea of decorating for the holidays fills you with dread, fret no longer. Your prayers have been answered. A trend has developed among seasonal businesses, such as lawn and landscaping, and staging companies, to keep themselves busy during the off-season, by offering holiday decorating services. “This trend has its origins in the increased availability of discretionary money available to homeowners, as well as to the increased popularity of lifestyle magazines and to the visibility of designer celebrities, like B. Smith, Sheila Bridges, and Martha Stewart,” said Helen Pearson, co-owner of HD Home Design. These companies have seasoned Christmas décor designers and installation crews who can make your house look like a “Christmas Wonderland,” decorated exactly the way you want. Everything is handled for you, the lights, supplies, decorations, and manpower so you can spend your time doing what’s important — enjoying the holidays. “Most people want to have a beautiful home to welcome family and friends during the holiday season, but they may not have the time, energy, or skill to realize their vision in their homes,” Pearson said. “Between work and family obligations, the work of de-tangling lights, getting out the ladder, swagging greens, tying perfect bows, arranging tablescapes and mantels can seem overwhelming, and often doesn’t get done. Stagers can do as little or as much as the client wants, from working out a decorating plan to be implemented 18 Trends
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by the client to installing a complete holiday decorating scheme, often working with florists and lighting designers to achieve the desired ambience,” she added. In addition to saving time and frustration, safety may be another reason for using holiday decorators. According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, 8700 people per year are treated in emergency rooms for injuries, such as cuts, shock or falls, that are related to holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees. The major players in the industry are bonded, trained professionals who know the hazards of the trade. They take preventive measures against accidents, such as safety training and using proper tools and procedures. “Accredited staging professionals should be insured themselves and should work only with subcontractors who are licensed, bonded, and insured as necessary according to their areas of expertise. It is wise for anyone engag-
ing the services of a stager or any other professional to verify this before entering into an agreement for services,” said Pearson. In addition to Christmas décor, Pearson and her partner Debbie Wood are real estate stagers, general contractors in charge of coordinating the myriad jobs needed for a seller to realize the greatest possible return on the potential equity in a property. Pearson and Wood de-clutter, arrange and re-arrange furniture, artwork and accessories so that a property is stylish and inviting. “Stagers tend to be creative, artistic people with good taste and a knack for making spaces look beautiful. Holiday decorating is another way of using those talents,” said Pearson. For more information about Christmas decorating or staging services, contact Pearson and Wood at HD Home Design, 2805 Abilene Drive, Chevy Chase, MD, 301-495-9626.
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BUGABOO CREEK STEAK HOUSE MORE THAN JUST GREAT STEAKS Bu!Cvhbcpp!Dsffl!Tufbl!Ipvtf-!xfÖsf!gbnpvt!gps!pvs!tufblt/!Ubtuf!pvs!ufoefs!Mpehf!Gjmfu!ps!pvs!pof.pg.b.ljoe!Gjsftjef!Tjsmpjo! Tljmmfu!Ujqt!boe!zpvÖmm!voefstuboe!xiz/!Cvu!podf!zpvÖwf!tbu!jo!pvs!dp{z-!bvuifoujd!npvoubjo!Mpehf!gps!tpnf!Topxcjse!Dijdlfo-! Hsjmmfe!Gsfti!Tbmnpo!ps!bozuijoh!fmtf!po!pvs!nfov-!zpvÖmm!voefstuboe!uibu!efmjdjpvt!tufblt!bsf!pomz!uif!cfhjoojoh/
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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
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LEGOs Mr. Potato Head
c i s s a l C s Toy
Slinky
Etch A Sketch
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By Alison Lapp
The Cabbage Patch Kids are skate punks. Strawberry Shortcake is wearing fitted jeans. And your Monopoly game piece might be a Starbucks cup. Some favorite toys from the 1980s have gotten 21st century updates as children who grew up playing with the iconic toys are having babies of their own. Boomer-era grandparents can also get nostalgic, with LEGOs designed for imaginary trips to Mars and an Etch A Sketch for the mobile phone. The desire to share favorite playthings with a new generation may be driving a trend of classic toys resurging on the market, but “nostalgia will only get you so far,” said toy analyst Chris Byrne. “The brands have to keep revitalizing and revamping to be relevant to today’s kids.” Here’s a look at some oldies-but-goodies that have been updated for the children of 2007.
Strawberry Shortcake
Alison Lapp is a writer for the Associated Press.
A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
11/27/07 7:38:03 PM
How To Throw A Fantastic Holiday Party
‘Seriously Simple Holidays’
A book review
Elaborate holiday party plans can often keep you so busy that you don’t have time to enjoy them. That may account for the popularity of a new book, Seriously Simple Holidays (Chronicle Books), which is filled with wonderfully easy recipes and ideas for hosting a fantastic holiday party. In her book, author Diane Worthington offers everything needed for stress-free entertaining for the holiday season—the essential equipment, table setup suggestions, homemade gift ideas, wine pairing notes, and menus for every occasion from Rosh Hashanah to Thanksgiving to the New Year. Among the many time-saving suggestions are ideas for stocking up the holiday pantry with a diverse array of products and quality-prepared ingredients that look and taste amazing. For more elaborate meals, Worthington proves that even Crispy BaconWrapped Stuffed Dates and Roast Turkey with Maple-Balsamic Butter Rub are deceptively simple. From drinks to desserts and even breakfast the next morning, “Seriously Simple Holidays” makes it easy to find time to share in the joys of the season. A new book helps you find time to share the joys of the season. —North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.
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Continued from pg. 9
CRABMEAT-GRUYERE DIP Start to finish: 45 minutes (15 minutes active) Servings: 8 to 12 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus additional to coat the baking dish 1 tablespoon minced shallot 1 cup sliced white mushrooms 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 2 large egg yolks 1 cup heavy cream 2 1/2 cups grated Gruyere cheese (about 7 ounces) 1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat Brandy, to taste 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Dash of hot sauce 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Salt and freshly ground white pepper, to taste 1 cup cracker crumbs, such as Saltines, crushed with a rolling pin Preheat the oven to 350 F. Generously butter a 10-inch gratin dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shallots and mushrooms and saute for 1 minute. Add the flour, stir to form a paste, then turn off the heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cream, then add the mixture to the skillet. Slowly bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, whisking to break up any lumps. Add the cheese and simmer for 30 seconds, or until it reaches a creamy consistency. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the crabmeat, brandy, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, parsley, cayenne, salt and pepper. Pour the crabmeat mixture into the prepared gratin dish and top with the cracker crumbs. Bake for 30 minutes, or until browned on top. Recipe from Kevin Garvin’s ``Neiman Marcus Taste,’’ Clarkson Potter, 2007, $45 22 Trends
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Holidays 2007
Winter 2008
Spring 2008
Winter 2009
Holidays 2008 Summer 2008 Fall 2008
SEASON
2008
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11/27/07 7:16:08 PM
afro.com We connect the African American Community A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
Call 1-800-AFRO-892 to find out more or visit www.afro.com
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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers
11/27/07 7:16:40 PM