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*Cover story photos by Lorie Woods *Cocoa Martini photos by Aiana Poquiz
Urban Life Northwest, July 2009, Volume II, Issue VII Publisher/Editor - Starla L. Fitch Copy Editor-Djuna Basconcelo Graphic Design-Miklos L. Fitch Photography - Aiana Poquiz & Lorie Woods Advertising/Marketing-Paul Sims, Christopher Coleman & Hakeem Shakoor Contributors-Pastor James P. Broughton III, Lora-Ellen McKinney, Ph.D., Cherita J. Raines MD, MPH, Tim Jackson, Patrycia L. Taylor, Djuna Basconcelo, Evelyn Ray, Tobi Ellison, La’Chris Jordan, Bartley Felder, Rev. Patricia L. Hunter 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. Subscriptions: $12 p/year US; Canada $16 p/year; all other countries $24 p/year (US currency only)
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Whew, what a month! June started off with a bang and just zoomed by. I was so busy last
OUR PUBLISHER & EDITOR
month that everything seems like a blur. We’re already into July and I just don’t know where the time has gone. On the bright side, there are still 3 good weather months ahead for us to enjoy, which I plan to do when time permits. In this issue we have two great interviews I am sure you will enjoy reading. The first is an interview with Susan L. Taylor (editor emeritus of Essence magazine), who is promoting the continuing development of the National CARES Mentoring Movement. The second is an interview by LaChris Jordan with Cocoa Martini, a local jazz trio that is growing a fan base with every outstanding performance. As always, we have several other informative and motivational articles for your reading pleasure. Our illustrator, Tim Jackson, has once again created awesome cartoons that are funny and thought-provoking.
On a more serious note, Urban Life Northwest is our magazine. It was created to help showcase our stories, events and businesses in a positive and progressive light. We are the only monthly magazine in the Northwest, for people of color, that is in print, online and regional. We reach communities of color in Seattle, Renton, Kent, Tukwila, Federal Way, Puyallup, Tacoma, LakeStarla L. Fitch & Susan L. Taylor wood, Bremerton, Lacey/Olympia, Vancouver, Spokane, WA and Portland, OR. We know that budgets are tight but we ask that business owners, non-profits, and churches find a way to support Photo by Lorie Woods, Beaux Arts Studio what we provide for our communities. Our communities deserve quality media sources that focus on things that are important to us. Collectively and individually, we (minority media sources) are the voice and face of communities of color in the Northwest, therefore we as individuals must commit to showing our support. Advertising is important to the survival of every business. If advertising were not important, companies such as, Microsoft, Pepsi, McDonalds, UPS, etc.. would stop spending millions of dollars each year to advertise. These companies are known world-wide and if they believe advertising is still necessary, then it is wise to reason that advertising is necessary for your business or organization. If we sit idly by and let our media sources fade away due to complacency, then we cannot complain when there is no way to voice our concerns, showcase the good and positive in our communities or when there is no affordable and professional way to market our businesses, events, products and services. If you value what Urban Life Northwest provides for the community, then we ask that you give us your feedback and support. Let us know how you think we’re doing. We value your opinion and we need your support. WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING… Dear Ms. Fitch, I don’t know if you remember me but I met you when you were in Portland last month. I just want to let you know how much I enjoy reading your magazine. Great photo on the cover of your June issue. (Wedding Contest Winners) Congratulations to the winning couple. I hope they have a great wedding. I wish them all the best and God’s blessings. Your magazine is growing and improving, I like what I see. S. Watson, Portland, OR, received June 16, 2009
*Please send your comments, suggestions and compliments to us via email -
wpas@urbanlifenw.com, or via US Postal Service P.O. Box 94057, Seattle, WA 98124 We love hearing from you!
Ms. Starla, You are working hard to make Urban Life Northwest a serious publication for our Northwest Community. I noticed that Tacoma and Portland have been added to your scope of influence. Where else could we receive all the wonderful information and beautiful advertisement each month? Keep up the good work! Of course it is difficult for people to sacrifice and support you during these critical times, however, it doesn’t take a big bank roll to give a little cash and moral support to our “community herald of truth.” Please accept this small donation to carry on your good work. A little bit can go a long way when we stand together in helping the talented people of the Northwest. There is no other publication like yours in the State of Washington. Please keep up the good work! Ms. Anonymous , received June 22, 2009
Dear Ms. Anonymous, Thank you so much for caring and sharing. I am happy that there are people like you, who value what this magazine provides for our communities. Your words and monetary support are sincerely appreciated. - Starla L. Fitch, Publisher & Editor, Urban Life Northwest (Ms. Anonymous, has written to Urban Life Northwest previously but this time she included a monetary gift with her letter.)
Hello! First of all, congratulations on bringing a professional, urbane, and relevant community focused magazine to the Pacific Northwest. I found your magazine in Portland Oregon before I saw it here and was delighted to discover it online as well. 4
L. Hunter, My World Dance & Fitness, Seattle, WA, received June 27, 2009
URBAN LIFE MONEY MATTERS
1. Backyard picnic, BBQ, or swim party The best things in life are free…a good mantra to remember as we march into 2. Hiking and/or mountain Summer 2009. The message behind it is that the truly valuable things in life climbing are intangible and have little or no monetary costs associated with them. 3. Canoeing at the UW While summer is normally a time of fun, spontaneity, weekend or weeklong getaways, and uninhibited spending, many of us are likely to embrace this 4. Miniature golf mantra, especially as we witness and experience the nation slowly pulling 5. Film festivals - free itself out of the recession. screenings Yes, there is evidence in the news that the economy is on its way back. 6. Museums - there is Meanwhile, many, including some of the wealthy, have curtailed or reprioriusually one free day tized their spending. Some things just have that feel good component attached each month to them, however, and everyone has some product or service that they will 7. Public Libraries continue to spend money on, whether there is a recession or not. great activities for children and adults A summer vacation is one such item. Many view their summer vacation as an 8. Summer concerts inalienable right! Others have experienced financial setbacks, however, and and plays in the park their goals this year are to complete basic tasks such as restoration of depleted 9. Family movies – free finances, finding employment, or getting business sales back up to optimal at the SuperMall (Auburn, WA) levels. Those interested in the pursuit of life balance will find that they can 10. Boeing Factory tour at the Everett, WA facility still get out and enjoy the summer without spending a lot of money. 11. QWEST & SAFECO stadium tours (Seattle) One way to do this is to go on a “Staycation”. This is a vacation where you 12. Microsoft Visistay in or close to your home town and visit one or more of the free or nearly tor Center tour free attractions there. The plus is you avoid lodging, airfare, rental car and 13. Seattle Beaches other inevitable vacation costs. 14. Pike Place Market (Seattle) Seattle and the surrounding vicinities have a plethora of fun places and sites 15. SeaFair events – to see. Many times when we live in a city, we don’t get around to visiting all Blue Angels, pathe sites, because we know they will always be there and we figure we can go rades, hydro at any time! races (Seattle) 16. Train ride or To the right is a shortlist of fun, free or low cost activities to check out. drive to SnoThere should be at least one that you haven’t experienced yet: qualmie Falls 17. Ferry ride to Remember: Sometimes you have to change your spending habits, even if Bremerton, Vaonly temporarily, in order to get your finances on track. “Staycations” are shon Islands, one way to accomplish that. Fauntleroy, San Juan islands 18. Mt. Rainier - free weekends in June, July & *Patrycia L. Taylor has an MBA and is a Financial Advisor living in South Seattle. August By Patrycia L. Taylor
You may contact her at (206) 248-5642.
Pacific Northwest
Orthodontics C. Neil Nicholson, D.D.S. Orthodontist
2815 S. McClellan Street Seattle, WA 98144 (206) 722-5000 5
URBAN LIFE PEOPLE
By Lora-Ellen McKinney, Ph.D. For a period of forty years between 1932 and 1972, an experiment was conducted by the United States Public Health Service (PHS) on 399 black men who were in the late stages of syphilis. Manipulated by the promise of free health care and informed that they were being treated for “bad blood,” these men, who were primarily impoverished illiterate sharecroppers from one of Alabama’s poorest counties, were never informed of their specific illness or provided available successful medical treatments being used in clinical treatment of, or in research on white men. Sadly, researchers representing the government were waiting for these black men to die so that they could examine them on autopsy, an indication that there was no intent to treat them. Diagnosed with tertiary syphilis, the men’s health degenerated into symptoms that included heart disease, tumors, paralysis, blindness, insanity, and early death. In the book, Bad Blood, author James Jones, identified this shameful chapter in American research as “the longest nontherapeutic experiment on human beings in medical history.” From this book a stage play, Ms. Evers Boys, looked at the conflict experienced by the black public health nurse who was charged with keeping the truth from the men involved in what is now known as the “Tuskegee Experiment.” Shepherded by Senator Ted Kennedy, the National Research Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. §§ 201 et seq) established institutional review and an ethic guidance program for all future research studies done under the auspices of the U.S. government. On May 16, 1997, President Clinton made a national apology to survivors of the experiment and their relatives. As Manager of Community Outreach at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Juan Cotto spends time strategically soothing the legacy of the Tuskegee Experiment. His primary work is to educate traditional minority and underrepresented communities in Seattle and around Puget Sound about the importance of participating in scientific research studies and trials. While there remain fears about whether or not scientists may abuse community trust, it is Cotto’s job to communicate several important facts: • •
Every research institution must have an Institutional Research Board (IRB) to evaluate all research applications; this requirement of the 1974 National Research Act is designed to protect research subjects by ensuring that only well-designed research will be accepted. Medical research is only useful if it can be generalized to many populations. As an example, if studies on Medication A only include white and Japanese women, we can only know its impact on white and Japanese women. IRB’s will often request that scientists include a diverse population of research subjects so that they can be useful to the broadest population.
This makes sense because working to increase diversity in research studies and clinical trials participation creates a number of winners. By ensuring a more diverse research pool, researchers are pushed to do much better work that benefits communities of color, research and clinical institutions, and ultimately, science as a field. According to Juan, “Great science that has the ability to save lives with no boundaries is the product of the community participation.” Juan has long been committed to community and to the Pacific Northwest. From his parents he learned that the Golden Rule applied to everyone and that all people deserved respect. Juan graduated from O’Dea High School in Seattle, Western Oregon University with a Social Science focus and from the University of Washington Graduate School of Public Affairs. Though this form of community work was not where he started his career, Juan’s work has always had an educational focus. With a work ethic and belief in God learned from his parents, he has always been diligent on behalf of others. Juan also knows that good health, his and the community’s, requires a balanced life. He and his wife, Sara, are the proud parents of 19-month old Clemente, a new life that they joyfully celebrate with family. Juan is also the head football coach at Highline High School in Burien. Laughing, Juan says, “People don’t understand how I can do this while working a full time job and attending as many community meetings and events as I do. I feel that as an educated black Latino, I have an important community responsibility to work with young people. I don’t watch TV and that single action frees up my time!” In the rest of his TV-free time, Juan continues his community education tasks. They are not always easy. He works for a cancer institution and cancer is increasingly a killer in racial minority communities. Unfortunately, the legacy of the Tuskegee Experiment remains strong. AIDS was thought by many to be a government plot. So Juan has his work cut out for him. But he is working all sides against the center, creating inroads with researchers, communities of color, and the organizations that work with them. And it’s working. A recent community meeting held at the Northwest African American Museum was filled to overflowing. Fred Hutchinson’s magazine noted that African Americans and Hispanics were beginning to engage in more research studies. These are examples of Juan’s hard work. And in years to come, though we may never think about it, when our local health options and opportunities improve, Juan’s efforts to educate the community about scientific research studies and trials, and put a painful past behind us, will have been part of that story. REQUEST: Please consider joining a volunteer study at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Volunteers of varying levels of health status are sought. Go to http://www.fhcrc.org/ and look under Health Information. *Lora-Ellen McKinney, Ph.D. is an expert in community health, social services, social justice and education. She heads her own consulting firm and is a published author.
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URBAN LIFE HEALTH & FITNESSES
By Cherita Raines, MD, MPH Since the summertime is here, I wanted to make sure to briefly discuss a topic that is rarely discussed, skin protection during sun exposure. We’ve all thought that our darker skin protects us from the sun. Well to a certain extent that is true. Skin cancer is less common in persons with skin of color than in light skinned Caucasians. The low incidence of cutaneous (skin) malignancies in darkerskinned groups is primarily a result of photoprotection (sun light protection) provided by increased epidermal melanin (skin pigmentation). Darker-skinned groups have increased melanocyte activity and larger, more dispersed melanosomes, in contrast to less melanocyte activity and smaller, more grouped melanosomes in Caucasians. Black epidermis allows through 7.4% of UVB and 17.5% of ultraviolet A rays (UVA), compared with 24% and 55% in Caucasian epidermis, respectively. Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the predominant predisposing factor for skin cancer in Caucasians. UVR is also a significant risk factor for skin cancer in Asians. The association of skin cancer with UVR exposure in blacks is unclear except for Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC). UVR plays a significant role in the development of BCC in black patients, since these tumors most commonly develop on sun-exposed sites. The head-and-neck region is overall the most common location of BCC in Caucasians, Asians, Blacks, and Hispanics. BCC doesn’t usually metastasize; rather it infiltrates the surrounding area destroying tissue. BCC is primarily related to prolonged, intensive UV light exposure in Caucasians, Blacks, Hispanics, and Asians. Consequently BCC occurs most often in persons after the 5th decade on sun exposed areas of the head and neck, regardless of the degree of pigmentation of the skin. As with Caucasians, 70% to 90% of BCCs occur on sun-exposed skin in Blacks and Asians, thus the emphasis on sun protection should not be ignored by darkly pigmented persons.
1. Check your local paper or radio station daily for the UV index. The higher the number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection. 2. Protect children by limiting their sun exposure and applying sunscreen to children 6 months and older. 3. Stay out of the sun between 10am-3pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest. 4. Wear sunscreen with a minimum of 15SPF, even on cloudy days 5. Wear sunscreen under your clothing; a standard T-shirt only provides SPF protection of 5 to 8. 6. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, especially during exercise and swimming. Be sure your sunglasses have UVA and UVB protection, which should filter at least 80% of the sun’s rays. 7. Sunscreen is only part of a good program, which includes a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a long-sleeved shirt and pants. 8. Remember to apply sunscreen to your lips and ears. 9. UV reflection from sand, water, pavement, cement, and snow doubles the amount of ultraviolet exposure.
This article was not meant to be a lesson on skin cancers, but to emphasize that people of color do need to visit the sunscreen aisle, before enjoying the nice summer weather. As with any other health concern, please contact your physician for any unusual or changing skin lesions. *UVB responsible for sunburn, skin cancer and aging of skin, UVA responsible for tanning and aging of skin.
*Dr. Raines is a practicing physician at the UW’s Roosevelt Family Medicine Clinic in Seattle, WA. 7
URBAN LIFE MARRIAGE & FAMILY
By Bartley Felder Independence Day, July 4th confirms that we are seriously into summer; forget about the temperature, I'm talking about flip flops, shorts, tank tops, bathing suits, and cookouts. No self respecting cookout can call itself that without the presence of Bar-B-Que, with its accompanying sauce. When perusing the grocery aisles, the selection of Bar-B-Que sauces available, seem endless and I don't think I am alone when I say they all taste hauntingly similar which is why I guess some folks are on a never ending quest to concoct their own? This quest seems to be taken on more by men than by women. While most folks take it in stride, that Alpha Male out there thinks his sauce is the "bee's knees." Why does he think his is the best? Why does he think his final product is deserving of all high praise? When it comes to humbleness I have met few men who show any modesty whatsoever about their creation. Sometimes however, it will evoke the South Carolina phrase: "It's so good it makes you wanna whip your mama." So maybe self adulation is indeed well deserved by the men who shroud their creations in secrecy. Maybe secrecy is a regional thing or maybe even generational, all I know is that Pacific Northwest folks are generous in sharing their recipes with whomever asks. This quest by men can be so all consuming as to not only cause them to take on extreme behavioral changes but also for one man who gets so engrossed in making his "brew" that he literally loses all track of time. His possessiveness of his secret recipe would cause all activity to cease if his wife dared to walk into "his kitchen" while the "master" was at work. This same secret master whose sauce was "made from scratch" would hide his empty store brand bottles so as not to reveal that his sauce was really "doctored up" rather than original. Who cares? It is the final taste test that counts. A certain Bellevue, WA Lieutenant Colonel's recipe for Bar-B-Que sauce was so secret; it was only in his waning years that he swore us to secrecy and wrote down the recipe for us. The ingredients, it seems, included every spice known to man. The proportions went beyond the conventional to almost the absurd. Pinches and dashes were listed along with a dust, a speck, a bit, a hint, a taste, a passing of, the essence of, and on and on. One might conclude that he was purposely leading us astray. I don't think so. Enough talk, I'm heading to a cookout. Representing the legions of non-cooks out there, I'll sit on the sidelines, watch the declared experts go at it and enjoy the fruit of their labors. Don't worry about napkins; Bar-B-Que is synonymous with "finger lickin." Have a safe, happy, fun-filled, stomach filled Bar-B-Que 4th of July! Bartley Felder is a native of Washington D.C., has a BA degree in Anthropology, who has traveled the globe and loves to write.
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July 17th – Have a fun-filled Friday evening with your kids at KidsQuest Children’s Museum in Factoria Mall. From 5pm – 8pm admission is FREE! The opportunity is offered every Friday during the summer. For more info call (425) 637-8100 or go to www.kidsquestmuseum.org. (BELLEVUE) July 17th – Play Tacoma in association with Metro Parks Tacoma, will have a carnival at Manitou Park, 4421 American Lake Blvd. Summer carnivals are back! Bring family, neighbors and friends to kick back and enjoy our parks. Through July community parks around Tacoma take turns as carnival destinations from 5-8 p.m. on Friday evenings. Bring the camera for all the photo ops created by these fun memory making adventures for kids. All activities are FREE. July 31st the carnival will be at Portland Ave Park, 3513 Portland Ave. For more info go to www.metroparkstacoma.org. (TACOMA) July 22nd, 24th – 26th - The 24th Annual Renton River Days is a week-long family festival and a celebration of community pride. It is a time to get together with family, friends and neighbors and to enjoy the amenities and activities which make Renton a great community in which to live, work and play. Location: Lincoln Park, Time: varies daily see website or call (425) 430-6603 (RENTON) July 25th – Alaska Airlines is sponsoring the Seafair Torchlight Parade. This year will be the 60th year of this wonderful event. Bring family and friends to celebrate this multi-cultural experience. Location: 4th Ave, Downtown, Time: 7:30pm. For more info and/or tickets, call (206) 728-0123 or email info@seafair.com. (SEATTLE) August 8th – The Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition presents the 5th Annual Duwamish River Festival. This FREE family-friendly event features live music, Mexican folk dancing, food, kids activities, and educational kayak rides. Time: Noon to 4pm Location: Duwamish Waterway Park,7900 10th Avenue S. For more call (206) 954-0218 or visit www.duwamishcleanup.org. (SEATTLE)
July 25th - Day in Damascus celebration, sponsored by the Damascus/Boring Kiwanis is a community-wide festival that takes place in and around Damascus Centennial Park. The event features kids' games, pony rides, tug-o-war, water balloon toss and egg toss, horse shoe competition, dog show/contest, live entertainment, food booths, arts & crafts Fair, farmers' market, safety fair and historical information. This year the city has partnered with OR-150 to make this an official sesquicentennial event. For more info go to http://dayindamascus.org. (DAMASCUS) July 31st – August 2nd – Enjoy family fun at the Willamette River Festival. Featuring BBQ Cook Off, pie eating & rib eating contest. There will be live entertainment, jet ski demonstrations & much more. This event is FREE! Location - Ferry & Water St. Albany, Oregon, 97321. For more info call – (541) 928-0911 or go to www.oregonfestivals.org . (ALBANY) July 29th – August 1st - The Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo, is celebrating 90 years of jam packed fun! Get ready for four days of fun, great food, great vendors and entertainment. This year's County Fair will give you more for your money! For more visit www.expo.deschutes.org or call (541)548-2711. (REDMOND) Deschutes County Fair
August 1 – Fun in the Park! A wholesome fun-filled family festival at Town Center Park. Over 130 activities - including music, animals, jugglers, clowns, magic and more! This event is FREE! Time: 10am to 5pm. For more info visit www.funinthepark.com or call (503) 682-2804. (WILSONVILLE) st
August 8th – Peeps Learning Center presents the Youth Explosion. Various youth in the community coming together for a dynamic evening of fellowship. Location: 5637 NE 14th & Church, Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm, for more info contact Brother Jeff (503) 493-1614. (PORTLAND) 9
URBAN LIFE REAL ESTATE
By Djuna Basconcelo “Home Sales are Up,” report the West Seattle Herald, Realty Times, and the NW Reporter. As with any news item, a little back-story is needed to understand the implications. First of all, “sales are up” refers to the number of homes being purchased, not the average price. And, “sales are up” is only half of the picture. Secondly, the other critical number to track is availability. If supply increases twice as fast as demand, sales being up, doesn’t really have the positive effect a down market needs. Lastly, add to “sales are up”, “inventory is shrinking”. Now the balance between supply and demand is clarified and one could even extrapolate that the market is landing on a firmer foundation. A firmer foundation will lead to stabilization of prices, a more balanced market place, and both buyers and sellers will need to move toward the center to accomplish their respective goals. A firmer foundation also means that the waiting is over for buyers, interest rates are increasing, choice is decreasing, and now is the time to act, especially if the $8,000 first time buyer credit is in the crosshairs. The next, and very important, factor is to consider location. Real estate is a local market place driven by local variables, such as employment rate and quality, available services and amenities, and the presence of major institutions (schools & hospitals). Comparing Seattle to a town like Detroit, for example, one discovers quickly, they are in 2 entirely different real estate worlds. In Detroit today, in 2009, there are 77 homes available for sale priced under $10,000, and a couple dozen are going for less than $1000. Less than 1000 dollars for a livable functional 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home! In Seattle the same house costs $300,000-at least. One main difference is Seattle has a much wider variety of jobs, most of which are skilled high paying jobs. Additionally, the employment rate is higher in Seattle than in Detroit, Seattle’s expansion is stymied by water along most of its borders, driving prices up. Home sales are up in our area, true, but there is still quite a bit of inventory, there are still a record number of homes controlled by banks but most importantly there are still opportunities to be had. *Djuna Basconcelo has worked for Keller Williams Realty for 10 years. She specializes in helping her clients find homes that they love. See her website at www.TheReDoc.com
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URBAN LIFE GREEN
his season, home decor trends are taking a more ecofriendly look with more earthy elements. We are also seeing a cultural fusion taking place in the pattern movement with emphasis on a more eclectic style. With the current economy situation and the move towards eco-friendly building and decoration, the future in home decor colors is to use neutrals and calming colors such as blues and grays to cool tones of bluepurple. The trend also includes colors that have a calmer feel such as golden greens, citrons and other earth tones. Graphic designs along with personalized patterns will also come into play as will the cultural fusion that combines patterns giving a more eclectic feel. The color palette includes strong blacks, denim blue and spice colors. While center stage will be found with neutrals, warming up your home decor color can be achieved with the use of blue-greens, bluepurple, oranges, wine berry, tomato reds and earthy browns. Bronze accessories work well with the warm colors and we'll see more of this in the time to come. Today's designers are working a lot with recycling colors and the "green" movement, while artistically combining warm color combos and bringing diversity through traditions found in China, India and the Middle East. 11
ULNW COVER STORY
By Starla L. Fitch Meeting Susan L. Taylor was something I never dreamed possible. I’ve seen her in Essence magazine for more than two decades. When I was in my early twenties, I wondered what it would be like to have a job as important and influential as hers. I never thought then I would ever be able to do what she does and getting a chance to not only meet but interview Ms. Taylor is more than I would have thought possible. She is truly a role model for women and I’m grateful to have had an opportunity to speak with her. Thank you Karla Clark of KC Media Strategies for making this interview possible. What can I say about Ms. Taylor other than she looks the same in person as she does in magazines, newspapers and on television. She has a very calming spirit that immediately fills the room upon her entry. She is warm and friendly yet serious and focused with regard to her mission. There is a regal quality about her that lets you know she is a person who deserves your attention. Ms. Taylor, along with Dr. Rustin Lewis - President, National CARES Mentoring Movement and Ms. Hazel Cameron - 4C Coalition/Seattle CARES, were eager to share the objective and inspiration for this movement with me. I was equally as eager to learn more about this movement so I could share this information with the Pacific Northwest. ULNW: National Cares Mentoring Movement, started as Essence Cares in 2006, what inspired you (Susan L. Taylor) to start the CARES movement? ST: I had been mentoring but what I didn’t really see was just entering the lives of these youngsters when in crisis was a way to create a larger, wider pathway for them to succeed. I knew there were mentoring spaces out there and I created Essence Cares to be supportive of the whole mentoring movement and so after Katrina, I knew that I needed to do something different with the many people who would come to the Essence music festival and that is what inspired me to try to speak to the community about getting involved in mentoring relationships. And not just their children (New Orleans) but all black children, with those who are underserved, ones who are vulnerable and who we’re losing and L-R Ms. Susan L. Taylor, Dr. Rustin Lewis and Ms. Hazel Cameron who are filling up prisons. We are not a mentoring organization but we are a mentor recruitment movement. What we’re doing is recruiting African-Americans because the first respondents are white women and then white men, black women and black men and when you look at the ranks of the young people who are falling into deepest peril and who are filling up the ranks of youth supporting organizations and mentoring organizations you’ll see a disproportionate number of black children. So we wanted to get the black community involved, the adult community involved in just wrapping our arms and our love around our vulnerable children and helping them. ULNW: What is the mission of this movement? ST: Well, the mission of the movement and we say “all hands on deck” the mission is for every able and I say stable black person to enter the life of a vulnerable youngster in our community and guide and mentor that young person to wholeness, high achievement and great opportunities. Our goal is merely to increase the graduation rate of black high school students by ten percent every year and just to damp this filling up of prisons the over incarceration and criminalization of black children at younger and younger ages. I would say to the black community that even though we live in the suburbs and we’re not in your neighborhood, we love you, we care about you and we are linking arms and hands to support you. 12
ULNW: I have a question for you Dr. Lewis, how did you get involved in this program? RL: I was introduced to this organization by Ms. Taylor and the chairman of the board but I’ve always been passionate about mentoring and the foundation of mentoring. ULNW: So what do you (Dr. Lewis) hope to accomplish with this movement? RL: Well to galvanize the community and encourage our brothers and sisters to step up, especially in this time in our lives where we have the first African American president, to take responsibility for our communities and begin to change the numbers, change the statistics and not just accept them. ULNW: Where is the headquarters for the National CARES Mentoring Movement and what does it do? RL: The national office is in Atlanta and we also have an Atlanta chapter and Atlanta circle. The national office serves as a typical support for all the 55 circles throughout the country. So we serve as a central resource, providing feedback, guidance, operational support etc.. ULNW: You (Susan L. Taylor) want the black community, like you said, even if you’re in the suburbs, to get involved in the lives of all of our children but how do we do that? How do we get people involved? ST: I think the first thing we have to do is remind all of us of our history and culture, that’s not who we are, each of us who is enjoying any measure of stability, is stable because somebody helped us and we're all standing on somebody’s shoulders, none of us got to where we are by ourselves and we have a moral and spiritual responsibility to those who are underserved and who are not doing well. I think a lot of us are people of different faiths, most black people are involved in some kind of religious support or some faith system I should say. I think all faiths are really saying the same things, the Holy Spirit or God or Allah, or whatever we call the deity is asking just one thing and that is that we take care of the least among us and we’re not doing that and so what we’re doing is we’re speaking to people’s hearts and we’re also explaining and I’ll let Hazel Cameron explain what we’re asking of mentors. People say oh I have to have a degree, oh I’m really not highly educated or I’m too busy, I don’t have time so Hazel you talk about what is needed and what you’re asking for. HC: Well, I think what we’re asking and I’ll repeat what Susan often says about first responders being white women and then white men, black women and black men and we want to reverse that order. We’re basically asking our community to step up and start doing things and be counted, to get involved and become a mentor. We’re not asking for a lot of time but we’re asking that you give something back to the community so we can change the statistics and the peril that we’re seeing in our communities. We’re losing too many of our children. I lost my own son to violence here in Seattle. We’ve seen so many mothers over this past last year experience death, the number of death’s we’ve had of African Americans….that’s unnatural for a mother to bury her child when it is not a natural cause and if we don’t take it in our own hands and do something about it, we’ll continue to see the same and we cannot continue to see the same. We’re in a major time in history as Dr. Lewis was saying, the president has proven that we can do all things and it’s up to us to do that. This article has only a few of the questions that were discussed in this 20 minute interview. I’ve included the questions and answers that I thought would best explain and highlight the mission of the National CARES Mentoring Movement. I learned a lot about the passion and dedication these three dynamic people have for our youth, our communities and our future. They are asking us to look inside ourselves, to muster up the courage and dedication to mentor. They want us to accept the responsibility we have to our children, our community and our race. Caring enough to mentor goes beyond lip service. It requires action. We must take action if we expect to see results. For more information about the National CARES Mentoring Movement go to http://caresmentoring.com/. For more information about the 4C Coalition/Seattle CARES go to http://www.the4ccoalition.org/. 13
LAUGH OUT LOUD (LOL)
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Tim Jackson, is a nationally syndicated cartoonist, illustrator and graphic designer. Monthly, he creates original illustrations specifically for Urban Life Northwest.
URBAN LIFE FOOD
By Evelyn Ray 2 large wheat flour tortillas 1/2 cup of cup red, yellow, and green bell peppers combined, chopped 1/2 cup of cup sweet white onion, chopped 1 can of black beans 4 large eggs 1 cup of instant rice Margarine or Butter Salt and pepper to taste Saran Wrap Foil Sauté the chopped bell pepper combination and onions for 7-10 minutes in butter or margarine. Add eggs and softly scramble in butter or margarine along with your vegetables. Empty the can of black beans in to a medium pot and cook until soft. While doing this, cook your rice. Just follow the instructions as listed on the box. Once all ingredients are cooked, mix together and fill your tortillas. Fold your burritos and wrap in Saran wrap individually. Then place the wrapped burritos in foil, thus, making this an easy way to take this nutritious meal with you wherever you go. *For additional flavor, add picanté sauce and top with shredded cheese before folding the wraps together. **For meat lovers, chorizo or other meat options can be added. *Evelyn Ray is the owner of Royal Catering. Her dishes have a Southern flare but are influenced by local ingredients. You may contact Evelyn at royalcatering@yahoo.com.
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URBAN LIFE POLITICALLY INCLINED
By Dr. Lora-Ellen McKinney I have come here to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect; and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive, and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles - principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings. President Barack Obama June 4, 2009 "Them Jews ain't going to let him talk to me," Wright said. "I told my baby daughter that he'll talk to me in five years when he's a lame duck, or in eight years when he's out of office. ... Rev. Jeremiah Wright June 10, 2009 Von Brunn, a self-described artist, advertising man and author, wrote an anti-Semitic treatise, "Kill the Best Gentiles," that he said no one would publish. In it he decries "the browning of America" and claims to expose a Jewish conspiracy "to destroy the White gene-pool." “Suspect in Holocaust Museum shooting linked to neo-Nazis” Seattle Times News Service June 11, 2009
From June 4 to June 10, 2009 we experienced a set of national and international experiences that ranged from phenomenal to surreal. This week in June saw a president give a speech intended to reach out to Muslims around the world as a way to demonstrate that America was not in a fight against Islam. Six days later, on the same day that neo-Nazi James Von Brunn shot and killed Stephen Tyrone Johns, a black security guard at the National Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, in attendance at the Hampton University Ministers Conference, slandered Jews when asked about his current relationship with and access to President Obama. When he was a presidential candidate, Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton were engaged in a debate about how to deal with Cuba as new leader Raul Castro took the helm from his aging brother Fidel Castro. Obama had angered Democratic supporters of Clinton and Republicans alike by stating that he believed that we should have full diplomatic engagement with America’s perceived enemies. Obama was prepared to negotiate with Castro and others “without preconditions,” though he acknowledged that significant diplomatic preparation was required. Quoting President John F. Kennedy, Obama stated, "Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate." Many of us learned the childhood rhyme, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me.” As we grow up, however, we learn that these words are more protective than true. Words can hurt. But they can also heal. Ultimately, it is the actions connected to our words that matter most. When George W. Bush noted that our response to September 11th should be a crusade, Muslims everywhere were horrified. This loaded term recalled the religiously sanctioned military campaigns waged against Muslims by mediaeval Christian Europe. By turning a tin ear to diplomacy and using a bludgeon to engage most international processes, including the Iraq War, George W. Bush squandered the reserve of good will America had with the world. Soon after taking office, President Obama’s first televised interview on January 26, 2009 was on the Al Arabiya News Channel. There he discussed America’s diplomatic role in the Middle East as well as his potential role for necessary peacemaking between Israel and Palestine. This absolutely unusual American presidential stance was very well-received in the Middle East for a number of reasons. Obama made a clear priority of the Muslim world by choosing them as his first interview, acknowledging the importance of the world’s fastest growing religion. Obama looks like most of the world, which is various shades of brown. And Obama, as a man comfortable with himself, answered every question he was asked without reservation. On June 4, 2009, President gave a soaring speech in Cairo, Egypt on the importance of partnering with the Muslim world. While polls indicated that the man on the street liked Obama considerably more than George W. Bush and tuned into his speech in huge numbers, it also showed that they were uncertain about whether American policies would change. Certainly, Obama’s use of words was new and made news: "Given our interdependence," Obama said, "any world order Monitored Security Alarm Systems for that elevates one nation or group of people over another will inevitably fail. So whatever we think of the past, we must not be prisoners of Homes, Businesses and Churches it. Our problems must be dealt with through partnership; progress *Promotional Offer* must be shared." So while the man on the street had doubts, politicians were forced to listen. President Obama favors the two-state soluFree Security Alarm System for New Customers! tion to the problems in Israel and Palestine. A two-state solution envisions two separate states in the western region of historic Palestine, Call Today! one Jewish and the other Arab, giving Arab inhabitants citizenship in Richard Aaron, Security Consultant a new Palestinian state. For decades Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has fought against the two state solution. Following a meeting with President Obama, on June 14th, Netanyahu announced in a speech that Israel could accept a peace agreement with a "demilitarized Palestinian state" as its neighbor. 16
Continued on page 20
URBAN LIFE INSPIRATION
By Pastor James P. Broughton, III In Matthew 18:1-4, Jesus uses a child to redefine "greatness" in the reign of heaven. In the community of disciples who acknowledge that the reign of heaven has come in Jesus, the greatest, most significant member of the community is precisely the one who is in greatest need of care, nurture, and protection. The Christian community wrestles with this very question of status and power in relationships. This pericope is not just about cultivating an attitude of humility; it raises in a very direct fashion the question of power in the Christian community. Who's on top? Who ranks the highest? Jesus responds to this question by showing the disciples a particular child-- someone who has no power or status and is utterly dependent upon their parents. He tells them they must become like children. It is an interesting observation that Matthew 18 begins its' discourse on forgiveness and reconciliation with this pericope that answers the question "Who is the greatest?" Jesus knows that we can't deal adequately with the nitty-gritty issues of sin and reconciliation in community without first concretely addressing the nature of power and relative ranking in the community. Nothing raises questions of the meaning of power more acutely than having to come to terms with harm done within a relationship within the community. This chapter has been used as a framework for individual and congregational justice, but in its' context emphasizes the length, height and depth of Christian love in forgiveness rather than chastisement. "Who is the greatest?" No question has more relevance to the process of pursuing reconciliation at every step than this one. If we try to practice mercy while obscuring the realities of power, we are liable to perpetuate all sorts of abuses. The only hope is that we will keep our eyes on that little child. Not just try to be childlike in some spiritualized sense, but attend to the literal child whom Jesus has moved from the periphery to the center of our attention. "Who is the greatest"? One who acknowledges their lowly position and looks to others-especially to God-for help, protection and guidance. *Rev James P. Broughton, III is the Pastor of Damascus Baptist Church, 5261 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle, WA
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URBAN LIFE ENTERTAINMENT
By La’Chris Jordan
It was a packed house at Jazz Alley on a Monday night – yes, a Monday night – and the three beautiful ladies that make up Cocoa Martini were ecstatic. It showed in the way they walked, the way they talked, and definitely in the way they sang. Kimberly Reason, Karen Shivers, and Kay Bailey sang everything from “My Funny Valentine” to Thelonnius Monk’s “In Walked Bud” to Randy Crawford’s “Rio de Janeiro Blues” while their four-piece band played on. “The three K’s” as Kimberly joked at the beginning of the show, were infectious and the crowd loved them, so much so that they gave them a standing ovation on their final song. The ovation for Cocoa Martini was well-deserved but the trio will quickly tell you their “four shows in one” takes a lot of work. “We didn’t want this to be a fly-by-night thing,” said Reason of the group which formed two years ago. “We treat this like a corporation and not just something being done on occasion.” In fact, Cocoa Martini has come a long way since their sold out concert at the Triple Door in December 2007. “Initially, we were just going to come together and sing,” Shivers said. “But after the Triple Door, we had this ‘a-ha’ moment. We got excited. We realized that we had something bigger than just a one-shot gig.” After that ‘a-ha’ moment, the ladies got serious. They made solid decisions on the type of music they wanted to play, the venues they wanted to perform in, even the kind of dresses they were going to wear for each show. And this attention to detail has paid off in a big way. They have generated an amazing fan base in a relatively short amount of time. “Our music appeals to all generations, all races,” Reason says of their classic jazz sound. “This is what our music (jazz) is all about. You see, jazz means different things to different people. A lot of people think jazz is smooth jazz. But for us, we have harmonic chord changes and do songs that have been around for decades.” Bailey says, “We just want to make people happy. We want them to dance and smile.” Reason adds that their fans tell them over and over again how much they love their stories. “Before we sing a song, we tell the audience why we chose the song and what the song means to us. They love that.” And even though they have only been together for two years, Cocoa Martini has nearly thirty years of singing experience between them. And it shows in the way they dress, in their presence, and how they treat their audience. And they don’t just sing songs, they perform them. Their upcoming gigs at Local Color in the heart of the Pike Place Market on August 21st and the Triple Door in December is proof that this is a jazz trio to watch. Most importantly, they are friends who deeply respect each other. “You can choose to make it all about you or you can embrace the togetherness of three,” Shivers says. Reason agreed, “We make decisions on a song based on what’s gong to make a great show not based on whether we get to sing our favorite songs. That would be easy.” Shivers adds, “The beauty of us is that we all have different styles, repertoires, looks, the whole thing. And then when we come together it’s magic!” Magic, indeed. To find out more about Cocoa Martini and their upcoming performances visit their website at www.cocoamartini.com. *La'Chris Jordan is an award-winning playwright whose plays have been performed in Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York. **Photos by Aiana Poquiz
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Kay Bailey, Karen Shivers, LaChris Jordan and Kim Reason
*If you have entertainment related ideas or events that you want covered by Urban Life NW, contact La’Chris Jordan via email - wpas@urbanlifenw.com. She would love to hear from you!
URBAN LIFE STYLE
What’s Hot! Purses this Summer are in line with what’s always popular this time of year. If you’re going for something less classic and more trendy, look for these details in an everyday bag. These are styles that will most likely be popular again next Summer, so it would be worth it to purchase a mid-quality, mid-priced handbag like one from Maxx New York or Marc by Marc Jacobs.
White is the color of the season. It’s a clean, sophisticated choice for the hottest months of the year. Bulky bags are the bags of choice so opt for a hobo or satchel.
Yellow is the super fun option this season! To brighten your day and everyone else’s, go for a bright yellow bag in any style.
For a more feminine, chic option, go for a pink bag. And, not just any pink. Think Barbie pink! Pink clutches are perfect to rock this style. A pink chain purse is also good choice.
If you’re digging the more classic options, go for a purse in natural brown leather. This color is quite trendy in belts, shoes and handbags this season.
What’s Not! Long Shoulder Straps: Instead of long shoulder straps, go for purses that have short straps that allow the purse to hang just below your armpit. Or, forget shoulder straps altogether and find a bag that just has handles. Fall Colors: Avoid Fall colors such as deep jewel tones, burnt oranges and coppers. Spring and Summer call for lighter colors. Black is okay just because it’s so iconic, but should really be left for nights out on the town. Metallics: Metallics are still popular in Summer sandals, but are not so trendy in handbags this season. If you must go for a metallic handbag, choose a light gold. *Source sassychic.com
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URBAN LIFE SENIORS *Tobi Ellison, SOLO Coordinator at CASC, 30th Ave S., Seattle, WA. To contact her call (206) 325-7663, or leave a message at (206) 726-4926
Seattle Parks and Recreation in conjunction with SOLO - Spirit of Life & Oneness invite you to
Community Spirit Rainier Valley & Columbia City Summer Picnic The Rainier Valley & Columbia City are the most diverse neighborhoods in the world, there are nearly 80 languages spoken here. Another way to look at this is to say that this community is the best place in the world to live, why else would so many cultural groups converge in a single neighborhood? Let’s celebrate the richness of this diverse neighborhood. Come enjoy lunch, entertainment and the open spaces of our Rainier park and playfields.
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Date: July 18, 2009
Rainier Community Center Meadow 4600 38th Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98118 (206) 386-1919
This Event is FREE! Continued from page 16 Between Obama’s outreach to Muslims and Netanyahu’s baby steps to a two state solution, anti-Semitic ugliness reared it head in surprising ways. In attendance at the Hampton University Ministers Conference, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, President Obama’s former pastor, was asked by a reporter if he had been in contact with President Obama since the election. Wright could have politely refused the interview. He could have said, “No, I haven’t.” Instead, he blamed Jews surrounding Obama for blocking his access to him because of his particular brand of truth-telling. It was a jaw-droppingly shocking statement, not befitting a respected preacher and teacher. It was an example of words that hurt, words resulting from hurt, and words born of hubris. In Rev. Wright’s case, it was part of a cavalcade of words now attributed to him. Though he had had considerable black community support when newscasts played endless out of context clips of his “God damn America” sermon, this statement said what he meant. His apology came two days later and was interpreted as less than sincere. Wright’s egregious comment occurred on the same day that James von Brunn became fed up with the way his world had changed. A black president. A play at the Holocaust Museum about two people “killed by hatred” - Anne Frank and Emmett Till – was to be performed. Von Brunn did not believe in the Holocaust and supported the Ku Klux Klan for whom lynching was a standard death sentence. In his view, 14 year old Till deserved to lynched for whistling at a white girl. The play was written by a black woman, Janet Langhart Cohen, who was married to a white (Jewish) man, former Secretary of Defense William Cohen. For von Brunn the presence of these many hated factors may have been more than he could manage. 20
At the advanced age of 88, their presence provided him an opportunity to strike a noticeable, memorable, fame-producing blow for white supremacy. "This outrageous act reminds us that we must remain vigilant against anti-Semitism and prejudice in all its forms," Obama responded. There may have been a message in this statement for his former pastor as well. Our world will not change until we look in the collective mirror and make commitments to engaging the change that must start with each of us. We must choose words and actions that heal. We must see the good in those different from ourselves. We have a presidential model. We have cautionary tales. We can’t wait on any of them. It is true that we have nothing to fear but fear itself. The world gets smaller and friendlier and easier to navigate when we put preconceptions aside and decide that the world heals when we put away our sticks and stone. The world heals when we start to work toward its healing. I'm starting with the man in the mirror I'm asking him to change his ways And no message could have been any clearer If you wanna make the world a better place Take a look at yourself, and then make a change. Man in the Mirror Michael Jackson 1988 *Lora-Ellen McKinney, Ph.D. is an expert in community health, social services, social justice and education. She heads her own consulting firm and is a published author.
URBAN LIFE TRAVEL
Summer is here, the sun is shining, and heaven knows you need a vacation! Although you may have more time to get away this summer due to furlough days or being laid off, money is still an issue. So how do you have a vacation on a budget? Try exploring the Pacific Northwest. Instead of purchasing two or more plane tickets and staying in that five star hotel, how about hopping in the car and heading for the Oregon coast? If you have not traveled highway 101 in Oregon, you have missed one of the most spectacular sights on the planet. In just a short five hour drive you can be in beautiful Canon Beach, OR. The rock formations that protrude through the Pacific Ocean are breath taking. Canon Beach is famous for Haystack Rock. This is just one of many geological wonders you will see along the 362 mile coast. An Oregon Coast Lighthouse
You can travel the Oregon coast on a budget. Gas and lodging are going to be the most costly items. There is not much you can do about gas prices. Just keep in mind what you pay for gas will be hundreds of dollars less than a couple of airline tickets. You can still enjoy a comfortable, clean hotel, or guest house for under $100 a night. You may not have an ocean view for that price, but with over 80 state parks and recreation areas, you will only be a few miles from the next viewpoint.
Since this is the busy season along the coast, it is a good idea to invest in a travel book of the Northwest. That way you can plan where you want to stop and reserve accommodations that suit your budget. You can have control over your food costs by packing the picnic basket and putting a few of your favorite beverages in the ice chest. Take along a festive tablecloth, healthy snacks, and plenty of sunscreen. As you travel down highway 101 keep in mind you are not on I-5. There are lovely towns and stop lights every ten to fifteen miles. So instead of making the destination the goal, make the journey your destination. Instead of vacationing in the fast paced, Twitter world, make an intentional effort to slow down. Stop and read the historical markers and do not forget to take your kite. Children and adults can enjoy this playful relaxing activity. Being near the ocean often helps us get a new perspective on life. The water is so beautiful, massive and dangerous all at the same time. You will not have to go far before your shoulders drop and the stress of it all becomes a distant memory. We all need time to relax and decompress. You can have a wonderful vacation away from home without spending a lot of money. Start by exploring the wonder of creation in your own backyard. Try the Oregon coast. *Rev. Patricia L. Hunter, is a Baptist minister, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER TM and a columnists for the Seattle Times' Faith and Values section.
Oregon Coast - Humbug Mountain
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July 7th to August 2nd - C Art Gallery is proud to present works by photographer Dale Rio and ceramic artists Lin Holley, Robert Fornell, and Mark Strom. The artist reception for “Sanctuary and Ceremony” will be held on Sunday, July 26th from 2pm to 5pm. C Art Gallery is located at 855 Hiawatha Place South in Seattle’s Central District. For more info (206) 322-9374 or visit www.cartgallery.net. (SEATTLE) July 17th - SALSA PARTY! (No partner required) My World Dance and Fitness Studio regularly hosts a Friday night Salsa Dance Party the third Friday of every month for only $5.00. Light refreshments provided. Time: 7:00 - 10:30 p.m. Location: Artspace Hiawatha Loft Building at 849 Hiawatha Place South, Seattle. For more info, check out their website at www.myworld-df.com or call (206) 861-2500. (SEATTLE) July 25th – FREE Health Screening - heart health, women’s wellness exams, HIV/AIDS testing, blood pressure checks Hepatitis C screening and more. Throughout the day there will be music from a variety of local artists. We will close out the event with a hip-hop gospel concert. This event is co-sponsored by N-Time Music Productions, Northwest Connection Community Choir and Ecclesia Community Church. For more information please call (206) 841-6059. (SEATTLE) July 31st - August 2nd – Drop by UmojaFest and don’t miss the African American Day Parade on August 1st. Continuing the tradition that began over 50 years ago with the "Seattle Mardi Gras Parade". This parade will feature drill teams, African drum & dance, masquerades, floats youth and community organizations and more. The parade will begin at 23rd & Union and travel south on 23rd Avenue to the festival grounds. Location: Judkins Park, Time: 12 noon. For more info, email parade@umojafestnw.com or call (877) 505-6306. (SEATTLE) August 6th – 9th – Jazz Alley presents, Bill Evans Soulgrass, featuring Robben Ford on guitar and Dennis Chambers on drums. Bill Evans is a grammy award winning saxophonist/singer, making his solo debut at Jazz Alley with his Soulgrass Band. It is an explosive combination of grassroots-fused jazz and blues. For more information go to www.jazzalley.com. (SEATTLE) August 7th – 9th - Garfield High School of Seattle, Class of 1969 is celebrating their 40th class reunion this summer. On Friday, August 7th there will be bowling, August 8th dinner and entertainment, and August 9th a family picnic and potluck. The registration fee is $69 per classmate and spouse. Goto http://ghs1969.wordpress.com to RSVP or call (206) 499-9624 by July 15th . (SEATTLE)
July 17th & 18th – City Wide Garage Sale, pick up a garage sale map downtown to help locate treasure from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout town. For more info call (541) 466-5709 or visit www.historicbrownsville.com. (BROWNSVILLE) July 29th – Don’t miss The Linda Hornbuckle Band, featuring Janice Scroggins on piano, along with Doug Lewis on guitar, Randy Monroe on Bass and Rod Nightingale on Drums, as they perform at Dawson Park. This dynamic group presents a musical experience that transcends all barriers and genres. Their jazz, blues and gospel repertoire is a musical experience that will leave you breathless. Time: 6:30pm to 8:30pm. For more info go to Janice & Linda www.lindahornbuckle.com or call (503) 331-1544 (PORTLAND) July 31st - Tillamook Cheese celebrates its 100th Anniversary with a free family event featuring mini ice cream cones, chef demonstrations, cheese parings and more! 10:00 to 4:00 PM Pioneer Courthouse Square, 701 SW 6th Portland, OR 97204. For more info go to ww.tillamookfanclub.com. (PORTLAND) August 8th & 9th – You don't have to travel far to experience Oregon's amazing bounty of Food, Wine, Craft Beer and Entertainment. It's all right here for you at the 2009 Bite of Oregon. Benefiting Special Olympics Oregon. See FOX TV’s Hell’s Kitchen winner, Executive Chef Rahman “Rock” Harper on the Oregon Chef Stage. Go to www.biteoforegon.com for more info. (PORTLAND)
Chef “Rock”
Thank you Church’s Chicken for sponsoring our Urban Life Community page. 22
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!
Summer Travel Destinations Answer these 5 questions correctly and win a 1 year subscription to Urban Life Northwest!
1. The city where you can win big, lose big and get married at a drive-thru wedding chapel all in the same weekend. 2. Also known as the “big apple” this city is so nice they named it twice. 3. This is the only state in the Pacific where you can get “laid” when you arrive at the airport, where flowered shirts are always in style and where Spam is considered comfort food. 4. There are many songs about this west coast state, one in particular was a big hit for Tupac in the ’90’s but what people remember most are the great beaches, great weather, great amusement parks and great food! 5. This is the number one tourist destination in the Pacific Northwest, aka “The Emerald City”.
June 2009
Winners C. Finkley, Covington, WA R. Freeman, Seattle, WA B. Johnson, Spanaway, WA ~~~~~~
Answers (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Denzell & Paulette Washington Will & Jada Pinket Smith Bill & Camille Cosby Ozzie Davis & Ruby Dee Colin & Alma Powell
The first 3 persons to answer correctly will receive a 1 year subscription to our magazine! We would love to mail our magazine to your home or office. This subscription is a $12.00 value! Submit your answers via email to KIP@UrbanLifeNW.com. Please include your name and mailing address so that we may send your prize. **Winners will be announced in our August 2009 issue.**
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT!
Malesis & Renton Flower Shop
Eph
6:17
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...sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
313 Rainier Avenue South Renton, WA 98057-2404 www.malesisflowers.com
(425) 228-6622 1 OWNER
(800) 248-1047 -
2 LOCATIONS
Beyond The Garden Gate
FLORAL & INTERIORS
(253) 850-6000 417 S. Central Ave. Kent, WA 98032 www.BeyondTheGardenGate-Kent.com
Pastor Paul Sims & 1st Lady Jean Sims “One with the Lord and one with each other”
2588 S. Alaska St. at Christ Temple Seattle, WA 98108 (206) 299-2632 www.crusadersforchrist-icm.org cfcicm@clearwire.net
Service Times: Saturday Street Ministry on Rainier Ave. S.& Henderson, 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm Sunday Prayer @ 2:00 pm Sunday Worship @ 2:30 pm 3rd Sunday Discipleship Ministry (Taught by Evangelist Jean Sims) Sunday Street Ministry on Occidental & Washington 11:00 am to 1:30 pm (If weather permits) 23