2
Out of Style By M. Roberts Is faith “out of style”?
The Jazz Singer By Starla L. Fitch Mercedes Nicole is making her mark on the jazz world in Seattle, WA. Find out more about her and her career goals.
The System is Broken - Are Politicians Destroying America? By Starla L. Fitch Politics and Politicians are destroying America in my opinion, what’s your thoughts on this issue...
Your Financial Questions Answered! By Patrycia L. Taylor Our resident financial advisor, answers questions from our readers.
Hypertension: The Silent Killer By Dr. Cherita Raines Learn what signs to look for and how to treat hypertension.
A Session with Chef Amadeus
In Every Issue
By Chef Amadeus The recipe for this month is Cuban Fried Steak. Chef A. reviews a new restaurant - Charlie’s Flame Broiled Burgers
A Word from our Editor What People are Saying… Family Activities Calendar Out & About with Chef Amadeus Community Calendar
Reduce the need for Stuff By Susan Thoman
4 4 6 13 15
Eco-friendly ways to reduce waste.
Urban Life Northwest, April 2010, Volume III, Issue IV Publisher/Editor - Starla L. Fitch
Copy Editor-Sylvia M. Fitch
Graphic Design-Miklos & Starla Fitch
Advertising/Marketing - Starla L. Fitch Contributors- Cherita J. Raines MD, MPH, Patrycia L. Taylor, M’ Roberts, Chef Amadeus, 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.
3
A WORD FROM OUR EDITOR
Hello Spring and hello more political unrest in America. How do we, as a country, explain a debate that lasted over a year because some “politicians” opposed giving the American public better healthcare options?
How do we justify the venom and evil that has bubbled to the surface and is causing a serious divide along political party lines? Are we going to allow self-serving, unethical and immoral politicians destroy the civil practice of democracy? These are the questions I am addressing in the cover story entitled The System is Broken - Are Politicians Destroying America? Be sure to read this story and feel free to send me your comments. We must speak up and speak out about what is happening in Starla L. Fitch this country. America is a “democratic” society but our democracy is being attacked by Publisher & Editor the very people elected to protect and defend it. Too many politicians are playing political games that are dividing America along party lines and creating an unsafe and unhealthy atmosphere in America. It is time for real Americans, regardless of political affiliations to stand up and speak the TRUTH! No more talking points. No more rhetoric. No more bull. This is our America. It does not belong to any one political party. If we fail to remember that united we stand and divided we fall. America will FALL! Thank you facebook fans and twitter followers our numbers are growing and we appreciate your support.
Become a fan on facebook! Follow us on twitter! WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING… The following comments are referring to our March 2010 cover story - Educating Our Children - Public, Private or Home School.
Dear Ms. Fitch, I enjoyed reading your insightful article. J. Murphy, Seattle, WA Received March 4, 2010
Dear Editor, I think it is great that you have taken on the task of home schooling your son. I have considered doing that but never really knew where to start. Your article gave me the courage to reconsider the home school option. Much success to you and your family. K. Jamison, San Diego, CA Received March 12, 2010
M’ Roberts shares his inspirational insight each month in Urban Life Northwest, although some may not know that he is also a celebrated author of three dynamic books. To get your copy of his motivational books visit Barnes & Noble or Amazon online and use the following ISBN#Endangered Species, ISBN# 978-1-4490-0979-3 When Rage Doesn't Help, # 978-1-4490-0977-9 Holier than Thou, # 978-1-60647-032-9 or visit http://www.authorhouse.com/Bookstore/BookHome.aspx 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
It never ceases to amaze me when whenever I hear someone say certain clothing fashions and other trendy items are no longer in style. Of course, there are many that never should have come in style, in the first place. Who is it that gets to decide when or whether something is no longer, “in style?” I used to give away a lot of clothing because I would listen to people when they would tell me that I need to let a certain fashion go. Loud colorful silk shirts for example, remember those? Over the years, what I have found is that the same double-breasted suits that I purchased nearly twenty years ago are back in style again. Some of the same dances we did got a few variations to them, along with a name change and were brought back to life. Did you know that many of those old clothes we gave away and old cars we traded in are worth quite a bit of money? Whether it’s comic books, stamps, toys, trading cards or any number of other items; they gain value with age. When a car gets old, it is termed a classic, when clothes get old they are called vintage, but what happens with people? Ecclesiastes 1:9 says: What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done and there is nothing new under the sun. There is a wealth of knowledge, wisdom and experience that our elders have available to share, but they are often dismissed as being old, antiquated and out of touch with the technological advances and degrees of higher learning many have come to benefit from. While technology is great and has numerous benefits, we have increasing numbers of high school drop-outs, incarcerations, bankruptcies, foreclosures, and unemployment. Our grandparents and great-grandparents made considerably less money, were often less educated and often had larger families to provide for, but their divorce rate was considerably lower, they understood the value of a dollar and learned how to make sacrifices so that we could have better opportunities in life, and many of them placed their faith and trust in the Lord. It is estimated that 10% of Americans, nationwide attend church on a regular basis and have a personal relationship with the Lord. That means, on average, people have more faith in the stock market than they do in Jesus Christ. Everyone has faith, to a certain extent. We have faith that when we get into an elevator and press the button that it will move and stop accordingly to the way for which it was programmed, we have faith that every time we depress the brakes on our automobiles it will come to a complete stop, we have faith that our organs, senses and limbs will continue to work each day, and so on. Over two-thousand years ago Jesus chose to give Himself as a sacrifice for the remission of our sins. John 3:16-17 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.” There are people who would try to tell you that the Bible is verbose and Jesus Christ is an old, “out of style”, concept that has no bearing today. The same way they try to tell you what is deemed fashionable or not. In the same manner, there are some trendy and/or “new age” religions out there that will do the same. They would tell you that the nails, beatings and torture that Jesus endured on the cross, didn’t matter, but it should matter, because He did it for you, too. Because God so loved the world…you, me, everyone. Styles and trends only last for so long, but eternity is forever. It is not about religion, but about establishing your own personal relationship with God. Regardless of what you may have done in the past, if you accept Jesus in your heart as your Lord and Savior, and believe that He died on the cross for our sins and on the third day, He rose again – you will have eternal life. If you pray that prayer and sincerely mean it; God will change your life, God loves you and He will never leave nor forsake you, and He will never go out of style. May you be abundantly blessed with all the fullness of His unconditional love. M’ Roberts is a motivational speaker, marketing consultant and trainer. He is the author of three books to purchase his books see his ads on pages 2 & 4 in this issue. To contact M’ Roberts send and email to mroberts@creativemarketinggroup.net .
5
April 9th & 10th – Whatcom County Youth Fair. This is a two day fair held annually the Friday and Saturday of Whatcom County's school spring break. Ownership of animals is not required. Those who do not have an animal are teamed up with those who do. Everyone learns at their level of experience and has a chance to work with the project of their choice. Cost: $5.00, Time: varies by event, Location: Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, for more info call (360) 354-4111 (LYNDEN) April 11th - Bring the whole family to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival! Daily events and attractions, most with appeal for kids and families, through April 30. Handy online “bloom map” shows which fields currently have flowers. Prices vary, many events FREE. Various locations throughout the Skagit Valley. Download the festival brochure online. For more info visit www.tulipfestival.org (MOUNT VERNON) April 15th & 18th - The Spring Fair in Puyallup! This is the 21st annual Pacific Northwest celebration of spring in Puyallup. Great fun for the entire family. You won’t want to miss Dock Dogs, Slamfest Demolition Derby, Spring Garden Show, Fiest Mexicana, Green Living Exhibit, Rock On! Musicfest, KidZone, Northwest Jr. Livestock Show and Sale, tempting Fair food, rides and much, much more. The fair opens on Thursday April 15th at 2pm to 10pm and on Saturday from 10am to 10pm and on Sunday from 10am to 8pm. Cost: Adults $9, Children ages 6-18 $7 and Children 5 and under are free. For more info visit www.thefair.com. (PUYALLUP) April 17th to 25th - Kites on the Fly! Family Workshop at the Museum of Flight. Learn the 2,000-year history of kites, then make and decorate your own. Time: 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m, Saturdays and Sundays only. Cost: $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10 active military, $8 ages 5 to 17, free younger than age 5. For more info visit www.museumofflight.org (SEATTLE)
April 24th & 25th - KidFest 2010! This is an amazing weekend of family-oriented entertainment, information and resources all packed into hundreds of interactive exhibits for kids and parents. Non-stop entertainment on two live stages and the Extreme Fun Zone keeps the kids entertained while parents can learn about the latest products, services and educational opportunities for successfully raising healthy, smart children of all ages. Cost: $5.00 for an all day pass, for more info call (503) 736-5200 or visit http://www.kidfestnw.com/ (PORTLAND) 6
1408 22nd Avenue Seattle, WA 98122
www.cappysgym.co
(206) 322-6410
URBAN LIFE ENTERTAINMENT
By Starla L. Fitch Putting a spotlight on up and coming talent in the Pacific Northwest is something Urban Life Northwest continues to do. This month we want to introduce to some and present to others Mercedes Nicole, a talented jazz vocalist. I first met and spoke with Mercedes in August of 2009. Although I have never seen her perform live, I have listened to recordings on her website. Her sound and style remind me of Dinah Washington. So if you’re a jazz lover, her upcoming performance at Jazz Alley is something you won’t want to miss. Here is what Mercedes had to say about her life and career. ULNW: Mercedes, when did you start your singing career? MN: The last time Nancy Wilson came to Jazz Alley, I knew all I ever wanted to do was to sing Jazz! That was in 2004, and I’ve never looked back! I was so smitten by her charm, sass, beauty and voice if I could have followed her all over the world if I had the money to do so. I was blown away by the fact we have the same exact birthday, which we share with Sydney Poitier…another of my favorites. ULNW: Why did you choose singing as a profession? MN: This may sound familiar, but music found me. I grew up listening to Jazz. Both my parents love music and Jazz is their favorite. My oldest brother played the saxophone all over Southern California and I use to sit on the steps with him in the warm summer evenings and hum along everything he was playing. ULNW: What do you like best about performing? MN: Music is mystical, magical and moving! I love tapping into the emotion and hearts of others and watching them surrender to the messages in a song. There’s a intensity that happens between the audience, musicians and singers that’s so magnetic it literally takes everyone into another time and place that’s literary quite intoxicating. Lastly, my fans are lovers of music, particularly of Jazz and I love the respect and love they show me, because that love keeps me going! ULNW: Which performers do you admire and/or emulate? MN: I’m not so sure I emulate anyone, but I certainly admire Sarah Vaughn, Dinah Washington, Shirley Horne, Nina Simone, and of course Nancy Wilson. Ohh, if I could scat like Ella…I’d probably just die and go to heaven! ULNW: You have a show coming up at Jazz Alley in Seattle next month, tell us more about this performance? MN: Singing at Jazz Alley is just about as delicious as my mother’s Sweet Potato Pie. The venue is top of the line, the sound just surrounds you in a sea of delight, and the staff is exceptional! They take care of every tiny detail. I’ve had a love relationship for years with Dinah Washington. She was cutting edge, unique, provocative and purely divine. On May 3rd I’ll be doing a tribute to some of the songs she mastered and made her own: This Bitter Earth, Moonglow, A Foggy Day in London Town, and certainly, “What A Difference A Day Makes”. Dinah had such a pure clear sound, and she sang with so much heart that I’ve often been compared to her… we definitely have our own unique sound. ULNW:Any other shows coming up in the near future you want to tell us about? MN: I’m actually going to go full speed into working on my own project. Some of the best local talents have released some amazing music the first part of this year, and I can’t help but be inspired to follow my passion and do my own. I have been working on my memoir for four years now, and it’s time to wrap that up also and get it out in print. ULNW: What are your dreams and goals for your career? MN: Getting signed by a major record label would be fabulous. I’d love to sing at Yoshie’s one day, and at Lincoln Center. I’d love to headline at some of the major Jazz Festivals and travel all over the world doing my thing. One dream I’ve had for years, is to have my own performing arts center that would not only highlight all the young talent we have in our city, but give those women and men who have turned their lives around or found their voices at last, a place to shine and grow because despite age, there’s a child in each of us that deserves the right to have their moment in time to shine! Mercedes Nicole, a talented singer who is making a name for herself in the Pacific Northwest. If you’re looking for a fun jazz filled evening, be sure to catch her show at Jazz Alley, May 3, 2010 at 7:00pm
For more information on Mercedes Nicole visit her website at http://www.mercedesnicole.com/index.htm 7
By Starla L. Fitch
If you haven’t figured it out by now, let me confirm, the system is broken! There are too many politicians playing games with the lives and livelihood of the American people. They say one thing and do another. They lie, cheat and steal to get what they want out of government, without regard for what Americans want or need from their government. They’re selling out the American people to get wealth and power. They’re playing dangerous games and these games have consequences. I know you’ve heard of this new game some of state attorney generals are playing, right? The game of threatening to sue the Federal Government over the healthcare bill because they claim it “forces” people to get health insurance and that it is unconstitutional for the government to “force” people to do anything. Unconstitutional really? Is it unconstitutional for the government to “force” people to get a driver’s license in order to legally drive a car? Is it unconstitutional for the government to “forcibly” take taxes out of our pay checks? Is it unconstitutional for the government to “force” people to have a social security number for employment purposes? Is it unconstitutional for the government to “force” people to get a passport to travel outside of the United State? Is it unconstitutional for the government to “force” doctors, lawyers, teachers and other similar professionals to be educated, licensed and/or certified before they are allowed to practice their craft? I think not. Requiring people to have health insurance so that the government is not picking up the tab for the uninsured is NOT unconstitutional? The government is trying to help people help themselves and those who can’t afford health insurance, the government will step in on their behalf. That’s what a government does for its’ people and it is insane for any politician to be against a bill that not only helps the people but helps the government help the people. It’s funny, the main people who are complaining about the government are employed by the government and are apart of the system that they claim to oppose. The people who are screaming “The government that governs less, governs best” are the same one who are governing in your state. Let’s take Sarah Palin for example. My favorite example of a politician gone awry. The former governor of Alaska who failed to complete even one four-year term and has to write notes on her hand just to remember her Republican talking points says that what “we” the American people need is less government. So my question is, did she believe in this governing less idea when she was governor or when she was running for vice president. If she really wants the government to govern less, then shouldn’t she be opposing all forms of government not just opposing Democrats in government? She along with the rest of her cohorts are nothing more than Republican hypocrites. Don’t believe their hype. Either you want a government or you don’t but you can’t have it both ways nor can you have a puppet regime that is only going to follow the party you support. American is one body and a body divided cannot stand. We must stand true to our democratic roots and work with the party that is in power. If we don’t support everything that party does then we have the right to question, we have the right to protest, we have the right to vote in or vote out any party that is not doing the will of the American people. We the American people must decide what we want from our government and from our political leaders, they answer to us, not the other way around. We cannot let political leaders decided what is best for us. We must speak up and speak out against these politician who are lining their pockets at our expense. Too many of them are using lies, distorted facts, fear and hate-mongering to get their followers up in arms. They are playing games with our emotions instead of helping us understand the truth and deal with the facts. If we just say no to political games by demanding truth from our political leaders, we can stop these wayward politicians and get the American political system back on track.
The Republicans have given themselves a new title, “the party of hell no”. They’ve embraced this title as a badge of honor. While they were embracing this new title, others have a different title for them - the Rethuglicans. Somewhere down the line, the Republicans have gotten off track with their political views and political practices. I’m not sure if it all started with George W. or with Regan but it started somewhere and these Rethuglicans have been playing more and more to the fringe elements of their party. They’ve become an obstructionist party if anything, playing politics and failing to serve the people who elected them. How can this party honestly fight against the Obama Administration when they were in office for eight years with George W. Bush and what do we have to show for their eight years of leadership? An excessive national debt? A crippled economy? Record unemployment? A failed housing market? A war that has lasted longer than any other war in American history? Can the Republican party really be proud of that track record? Can Americans (or should I say Republican supporters) really want Republicans to give us more of this type of “leadership”? When George W. Bush took office after Bill Clinton, the government had a financial surplus. When Barack Obama took office after George Bush, the country was more than a trillion dollars in debt. So tell me, what exactly did the Republican party do for America that has its’ followers determined to get them back in charge? 8
Just think about it for a moment. Stop the lies and embrace the truth. The truth is the Republicans are afraid the Democrats will be successful in getting America back on track therefore they have made it their mission to delay and/or stop that success. This “hell no” stance hurts the country. The political rallies, (if I can call them that) are nothing more than “tea” parties for whiners and hate-mongers. The attempts to incite violence and hatred does nothing more than show the world that the Republican party is filled with hateful, malicious and small-minded people. Case in point, a Republican doctor in Florida is so upset over the passing of the healthcare reform bill, he decided that anyone who voted for President Obama is no longer welcomed at his office. Dr. Jack Cassell, posted a note on the door of his doctor’s office which stated “If you voted for Obama, seek urologic care elsewhere. Changes to your healthcare begin right now, not in four years.” What kind of doctor would tell that to his patients? When did doctors start choosing their patients based on their political affiliations? By the way, his wife, Leslie Campione is a lawyer and GOP candidate for the county commission. For more on this story click on the link - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/ id/36152956/ns/health-health_care. The Republican party has failed to denounce this doctor or denounce others following in his footsteps. People who have threatened the lives of Democratic leaders because they support healthcare reform. I’m still waiting for the Republican party to change their talking points and tell their followers that their methods of opposing the government is wrong. Tell them that threats and violence is not the way. This has been going on since President Obama was elected and all the Rethuglicans have done is fan the flames with their rhetoric while denying any responsibility.
I remember an old saying my mother taught me, “If you dig one grave, you better dig two, because what you do to others, will come back on you.” What this really boils down to is karma. Everyone has to face karma, although many think karma will somehow pass them by but it won’t. Just ask Republican party chair, Michael Steel. During the 2008 election, he denounced anyone who claimed things that were said and actions that were taken against presidential candidate Barack Obama had any racist intent. He not only sold out black Americans but he also did a major disservice to the racist fringe in America. His lies attempted to make blacks feel as if they were wrong if they claimed that something or someone was being a racist and for the racist, he allowed them to feel comfort and/or justification in their racism. But now all of that has changed. Now, Michael Steel is admitting that his race has something to do with the problems he is currently facing with the RNC. He admits race played a role in the treatment that President Obama has received and is receiving. Now he sees the light, when the light is shining on him. It’s surprising how blind he was to that light when, it was shining on someone else. He is a poor excuse for a political leader. Any political leader who is without compassion for others or does not have the ability to look at a situation from the other person’s perspective is a not a leader at all. He is nothing more than a selfserving charlatan, who will do and say anything for personal gain. He is a politician who is doing a disservice to the American public.
When did politicians get a free pass when it comes to integrity, truth, morals and ethics? I continue to see story after story about this politician or that politician who has lied about something that affects not only his family but also his constituents. I don’t know about you but if I were caught lying about something that affected my job and/or embarrassed the company I worked for, I would be out of a job but for some reason, we tend to forgive and forget when it comes to politicians. Why? We voted them in based on the very morals and ethics they violate. Therefore, we must vote out any and all politicians who have forgotten their morals, ethics and have lost the ability to tell the truth. The job that we have entrusted them to do is too important to be taken lightly. When these politicians violate our trust and disgrace the political office for which they were elected, I say we impeach or vote them out immediately. These politicians should be forced to vacate their office and give someone else a chance to properly represent the American people. I believe in second chances and I believe in forgiveness but I also believe in responsibility and if these politicians are acting irresponsibly then their jobs should be in jeopardy. We’ve got to get the bad apples out of office and put some good ones who are ready, willing and able to do the job! I don’t care how long they’ve been in office. They can be replaced and they should be replaced. How long will we accept subpar representation in our local, state and federal government? When will enough be enough? I say today! Stop waiting for someone else to do the job. If you’re a US citizen and have good ideas about how to make this country a better place then run for office. Be the change we need to help make this country better. The system may be broken but it can be fixed. Politician will not destroy America if we vote in honest, ethical, moral and caring individuals who can make decisions for the American public based on what is needed to improve the country and not based on increasing their own personal wealth, power and fame. Lastly, I’m asking the media to help the American public by reporting the truth. Not a half-truth, not a partial-truth but the whole truth, I’m talking to you FOX “news” channel. Your programming is hurting your viewers and you don’t seem to care. It’s okay if you dislike President Obama and the Democratic party but it is not okay to perpetuate lies and broadcast them as if they were true. Shame on you FOX, shame on you! Thanks and appreciation to MSNBC for being a news source you can believe in. They give you the truth straight up with no chaser. They back up their commentary with interviews, videos and other discussions. They give the American public what it deserves, the TRUTH. The system can be fixed if we hold our political leaders accountable for their words and deeds. We must utilize the tools that are available to us to check the “facts” we receive from the media. Don’t take their word at face value. Before you run out to a tea party or political rally, make sure the cause you’re supporting is a valid cause. When you arrive, be sure to check your bigotry at the door, because there is no room for it in a country as great as America. 9
URBAN LIFE MONEY MATTERS
Patrycia Taylor, the ULNW financial guru is answering your questions. She want to help you make the best financial choice possible. Here are some questions from our readers. Hopefully she was able to answer your question but if not, be sure to send your questions and concerns to her at wpas@urbanlifenw, just put Financial Question in the subject line.
1. Summer is on the way and I need to start saving for our summer vacation. What are some ways we can have an economical fun-filled vacation for a family of four? It is great that you are proactively saving for your summer vacation. I’m sure you know that “economical” means something different to every family. One may have $500 to spend; another may have $5,000 to spend. So first you’ll want to make your best guess as to how many activities or events you want to squeeze in this summer. Determine whether you plan to have one special activity/event each week, one activity/event each month, or one big trip or event for the whole summer. Then determine approximately how much you want to spend on each event, and how many weeks or months you have to save the money you need. To spend as little cash as possible, check your pubic library or local city event listing for free or nearly free events that your family would consider as fun and vacation-worthy. For example local sports stadiums provide free tours. You can visit a different one each week for a several weeks. There are free concerts and plays in the park, parades, inexpensive ferry rides, camping, hiking, free museum and national park admissions on certain days, and free movie screenings. You can also look for events in neighboring counties, such as the Tulip festival. Even a backyard or beach barbeque with relatives and friends can be a fun, low cost activity. If you really want to get out of the city, a little more planning and saving will be required. One way to save money is to vacation out of town, but closer to home. For example, maybe your family goes to Disneyland in California instead of to Epcot Center in Florida. Whatever your preference, there are enough activities to provide a measure of fun for each family member.
2. What is the best age to start teaching my children how to handle money? The best age is when they are ready! So how do I know when they are ready, you ask. The age will not be the same for every child, but you will have an idea who is ready when they start to consistently ask you to buy toys, clothes, or other kid-centric items. You can use trips to the store or the bank to insert teaching moments to help them understand the relationship between handing over money and in turn receiving something of value, or in the case of a young child, receiving something they really want. When they ask why you have to trot off to work each day, you can explain in age appropriate language that it’s to earn money to pay for necessary food, clothing and shelter. When grandparents, aunts, or uncles give them money for their birthday, it’s a good time to teach them about saving, spending and giving away a portion of it. If you really want to gage your child’s understanding of monetary value, you can perform a little test. Place coins or bills on a table and ask your child to pick only one. A three year old, for example, when faced with the choice of a penny, dime or nickel will probably choose the nickel because it’s the biggest coin. A six year old who has learned how to count or has seen pictures of coins in his 1st grade math book will probably know to choose the dime, even though it’s smaller. This will give you an idea of which category to start with when teaching them about money. Stylist
There are also age appropriate teaching tools such as the three slotted piggy bank or games like Monopoly or Cash Flow for Kids that will augment your child’s learning. Older kids should be allowed to participate in the decision making process when it come to grocery shopping, paying bills or buying gifts. Remember the very best way to teach your child is to lead by example. So use money responsibly… your kids are watching you.
Micro Braids Hair Extensions Design Coloring Invisible Weaves Lace Cap Wigs Relaxer Systems Flat Iron
Do you have financial questions? Please send them to Patrycia at wpas@urbanlifenw.com. 10
*Patrycia L. Taylor, MBA is a Financial Advisor living in South Seattle. You may contact her via email at wpas@urbanlifenw.com.
URBAN LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS
By Cherita Raines, MD, MPH
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is appropriately nicknamed the silent killer. It is called this because individuals usually do not have any symptoms. Many times hypertension is discovered when a patient goes to see their doctor for an unrelated reason or it is discovered on a routine medical exam. I will briefly mention some key facts about hypertension, but there are two important points I want everyone to understand. 1) Young people are not exempt from having hypertension. 2) Hypertension, if it is severe enough, can kill you. What is hypertension? Arteries are like hoses that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. If you put a crimp in a hose, pressure builds up inside it. Hypertension occurs when your blood moves through your arteries at a higher pressure than normal. What do the numbers mean? Blood pressure is really two measurements, separated by a slash when written, such as 120/80. The first number is the systolic blood pressure. This is the peak blood pressure when your heart is squeezing blood out. The second number is the diastolic blood pressure. It's the pressure when your heart is filling with blood--relaxing between beats. A normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. If your blood pressure is between 120/80 and 140/90, you have what is called "prehypertension," which means that if you don’t take important steps, your blood pressure can turn into hypertension. How is hypertension diagnosed? Blood pressure is measured by placing a blood pressure cuff around your arm, inflating the cuff and listening for the flow of blood. Your doctor will measure your blood pressure at more than one visit to see if you have hypertension. How often should I have my blood pressure checked? After age 18, have your blood pressure checked at least once every 2 years. Do it more often if you have had high blood pressure in the past. What problem does hypertension cause? Hypertension and prehypertension damage your blood vessels. This increases your risks of stroke, heart attack, heart disease, and kidney failure. How is it treated? Treatment begins with lifestyle modification: stop smoking, lose weight, exercise regularly, eat fruits and vegetables, limit salt, caffeine, and alcohol intake, and try relaxation techniques. Even if you need to take medications, positive lifestyle changes can reduce the amount of medications that you take. Does stress affect my blood pressure? Stress may affect your blood pressure. Try daily relaxation techniques or biofeedback. What about medicine? There is a class of medications called antihypertensives which are used to combat hypertension. There are several different categories of medication under this general class. Taking medications does NOT take the place of positive lifestyle modification. Medications can have side effects including: problems sleeping, dry mouth, cough, dizziness, headaches, bloating, and depression. In men some medications may cause problems with having an erection. However, if you, or someone you know, are experiencing side effects do not stop taking your medications without first talking to your doctor. There are other medications that you can be switched to that may not have an adverse effect. In addition, stopping medication increases your risk of stroke and heart attacks. This material was taken from familydoctor.org, please visit the website for more information and always discuss medical advice personally with your own 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 11
URBAN LIFE FOOD
It’s spring again, for the past month I have been traveling from coast to coast. While down in Florida, I had a chance to spend time with my mother, and as always, we talked about food. We remembered our love for Puerto Rican cuisine. Many years ago, I took a Latin cooking class in Jacksonville, Florida. I won’t tell you exactly how long ago that was, because I know how “young” I look…ok… how young I think I look but I digress, it was sometime in the late 80’s, that I collaborated with Chef Hector Ortiz. We worked together at the San José country club. One of the dishes that I loved then and now is Cuban fried steak and that is the recipe I’ll share with you – Enjoy! Enjoy and have a Bumpin good time!
6 – top round steaks about 4 to 6 ounces each 2 - cloves garlic (crushed) The juice of 2 limes Lil’ bump (season as needed) 3-4 table spoons olive oil 1 – medium onion (sliced) 3 tbs parsley Step 1 - pound the steaks on both sides until about ¼ inch. Season with garlic, lime juice and Lil’ bump. Let marinate for at least an hour. Step 2 - Remove the steaks from marinade, pat dry. Don’t discard the marinade, you’ll need it later. In a large pan heat oil over medium heat. Cook steaks on each side for 2-3 min. Step 3 - Transfer steaks to serving platter and keep warm. In the same pan that you used to cook the steaks in add your sliced onions then the marinade and cook until onions are slightly wilted or about 3-4 minutes. Step 4 - Garnish steaks with the cookeds onions and parsley then serve.
When I arrived back in Seattle to promote my spices, I was looking for a place to grab a bite that had wifi. I heard about this place called Charlie’s Flame Broiled Burgers from twitter. I went in and met the owner and next thing you know I am talking about food and my spices. I had the avocado burger, great choice. Now they are using Lil’ bump on the fries. If you like spicy, try the green pepper burger. Next time you are craving a burger and you’re in the central district check it out. Good burgers and great fries! **L’il Bump is a special spice created by Chef Amadeus, to get this spice, visit his website at www.ChefAmadeus.com.
To contact Chef Amadeus or if you have any questions about or other recipes send an email to amadeus@chefamadeus.com 12
Or follow Chef Amadeus on Twitter - twitter.com/chefamadeus
Last month we were out and about with Chef Amadeus. Urban Life Northwest in conjunction with the Northwest African American Museum sponsored a tasting with Chef Amadeus. We had an intimate and interactive group in attendance. The food and conversation made this event one to be remembered and worth repeating. . .which we will do next month. Enjoy the photos. Be sure to watch for more detail about our next event - An Evening with Chef Amadeus in May 2010.
Don’t miss our next culinary event coming in May 2010. Come eat, drink and be merry and maybe learn a thing or two about food from Chef A. A food filled evening you won’t want to miss!
13
URBAN LIFE GREEN
By Susan Thoman In my last article, I touched on how to recycle more at home by adding food waste to your yard bin. Recycling, as one of the three R’s (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle), seems to be what many in the recycling outreach community spend time and effort on. Although maximizing recycling efforts is critical to minimizing our carbon footprint and preserving our natural resources, the Washington State Department of Ecology points out that as recycling rates continue to rise (yay!), the amount of waste we waste we create continues to grow (boo!). Thus, let’s ponder the thought of simply reducing our waste by rethinking our need for stuff. One positive environmental benefit of a struggling economy is that waste generation declinesless money to shop, less stuff going to waste. However, once things get better, it is part of our cultural DNA to go out and get something new. We might think its time to replace a bulky, fully functional 10 year old TV with a thin, sleek new one. Then there’s that one- of-a-kind pair of aqua heels with the tiny jeweled buckle-just gotta have ‘em!. However, when we compulsively acquire stuff, we tend to displace functional items that are still usable with things that we think we need. Albeit, a trip to Salvation Army or a donation to the needy might provide a new home for the old, displaced items, but then there’s the foam packaging the TV came with and all the plastic ties and wrap, the shoe box and paper the shoes were wrapped in, and so on. The residual waste that comes with these items end up at the landfill. And even if we can recycle the box or the paper, then we need more energy and resources to manage that, too. Day to day, there are many ways to reduce our waste generation. 40 years ago, my mother always had a glass pitcher of lemonade or iced tea in the refrigerator- no cases of plastic bottles on the garage floor. By using reusable (durable) stainless bottles and making juice and tea from concentrate (or my lifelong favorite- the tea bag!), you cut your waste production in this area dramatically. I have had some realizations along the way as well. By striving to take out disposable paper and plastic containers from my day to day life, I realized (in horror) that I was compulsively buying reusable bottles in various shades and colors. It hit me when I heard several of them clanking into each other on the floor of my car, then saying to myself “I only needed one or two-not six in various shades!” So, as spring greets us, its time to welcome another R- reflection. Reflect on how you can reduce waste. Think about planting a vegetable or herb garden, using (and not forgetting them at home….) the reusable shopping bags, looking for treasures at consignment or thrift stores while bringing them a load of your old stuff, giving no-waste gift certificates for services or downloadable music, sewing new covers for the pads on your patio furniture, or fighting that impulse to compulsively shop with a nice, long walk. Thoughtful reflection and a few life changes can make a big difference in our community’s waste generation, and it starts with just being aware. Happy spring! *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.
14
April 13th – Come enjoy food prepared by Chef Amadeus at Island Soul. From 5:00pm to 9:00pm Chef Amadeus will be a guest chef at Island Soul. Enjoy his unique spin on classic Carribean dishes. For more information contact Island Soul at 206-329-1202 or visit www.islandsoulrestaurant.net (SEATTLE) April 15th & 18th - The Spring Fair in Puyallup! This is the 21st annual Pacific Northwest celebration of spring in Puyallup. Great fun for the entire family. You won’t want to miss Dock Dogs, Slamfest Demolition Derby, Spring Garden Show, Fiest Mexicana, Green Living Exhibit, Rock On! Musicfest, KidZone, Northwest Jr. Livestock Show and Sale, tempting Fair food, rides and much, much more. The fair opens on Thursday April 15th at 2pm to 10pm and on Saturday from 10am to 10pm and on Sunday from 10am to 8pm. Cost: Adults $9, Children ages 6-18 $7 and Children 5 and under are free. For more info visit www.thefair.com. April 15th – American Heritage Series: Black Women Conquer the West, presented by Central District Forum for Arts & Ideas. The impact of Black women pioneers are often marginalized or unacknowledged. Through developing the first women’s clubs, homesteading, and running brothels, Black women shaped the Old West as madams, mothers, cowgirls, society ladies, and more. This event is co-sponsored by Northwest African-American Museum, Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), University of Washington-Simpson Center for Humanities and the Center for Northwest History. $7 for general admission/$5 students and seniors For more info, visit www.cdforum.org or call (206) 323-4032. April 18th & 19th - The Northwest Foodservice Show - Join Chef Amadeus at the largest foodservice and hospitality tradeshow in the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy educational seminars, sampling, northwest brews and vintages. Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm on Sunday and 10:00am to 4:00pm on Monday. Cost: $25.00 pp For more information visit www.nwfoodserviceshow.com. (SEATTLE)
April 17th & 18th – We’re celebrating our 56th year, don’t miss the Hood River Valley Blossom Festival!! Over 15,000 acres of orchards explode into bloom - carpeting the entire Valley in pearly white and pink blossoms. The entire Valley welcomes you to join us in the celebrations, including the Blossom Quilt Show, the Blossom Craft Show, and much more! Stop by the Hood River County Visitors Center at 720 E. Port Marina Drive (Exit #64) for your map & brochure -- or just ask the volunteers stationed at Exits #62 and #64! For details, call 1-800-366-3530. (HOOD RIVER) April 23rd & 24th - 6th annual Oregon Garden Brewfest 2010, this event will be held inside the garden’s J. Frank Schmidt Jr. Pavilion where attendees will enjoy flagship beers, seasonal beers, live music and hearty fare. The event’s $15 admission includes entrance to The Oregon Garden and to the Brewfest event, a commemorative beer mug, and tasting tickets. Time: Friday, April 23 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday, April 24 from noon to 11 p.m. For more info call (503) 874-8100. (SILVERTON) April 24th - Be green! Stop by the Sherwood Green Day Celebration! Environmental Movies, Organic Beer & Wine Garden, Music, Cycling Zone, Animal Trivia Show, Scavenger Hunt, and more! Time: 1pm – 5pm, Cost: your recyclables, For more info call (503) 6254243 (SHERWOOD)
15