Monday, April 27, 2009

Happily Natural Day

WHAT IS HAPPILY NATURAL DAY?

Happily Natural Day, originating in Richmond, Virginia, is an African Heritage festival committed to cultural awareness, holistic health and social change. Seven years ago, we saw the need for an event that says that natural hair was something more than just the latest style, and way more than just a chic look or fashion trend. At Happily Natural Day we identify with natural hair as a statement. Locks, afros and braids are socio-cultural symbols that are used as public proclamations of self-love and deep pride in being a person of African descent, and so, through Happily Natural Day, we promote the natural beauty of African people. Happily Natural Day is a continuance of the “Black Is Beautiful” campaigns of the 1960s and 1970s – started by Elombe Brath and the African Jazz Art Society and Studio (AJASS) via its “Naturally” shows and Grandassa Models. Happily Natural Day is ultimately married to the cause of redeveloping the maximum human potential of people of African descent through information and inspiration. Our annual August festival features workshops, lectures, live music, and merchants with one of a kind products from around the globe. It inspires us to love ourselves, to support Black-owned businesses, to heal ourselves holistically, and to live for the freedom that comes with doing for self. The mission of Happily Natural Day is to raise consciousness and cultural awareness, and to inspire collective works, self-determination and social change in the African community.
(Excerpt taken from http://happilynaturalday.com/ following the link to learn more)

White Taco Salad Recipe

This is a summertime favorite for me and my family. My Aunt Joyce used to make it for us when we were kids. I make it for my children now. Enjoy!

White Taco Salad

Ingredients:
2 lbs - Ground Beef
2 pks - Ranch Salad Dressing (The dry kind that you mix)
Milk
1/4 cup of onions
1/4 cup green peppers
1 - Can of Red Beans (drained)
Tortilla Chips
1 - Med. Tomato
1 - Head of lettuce
16 oz Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Cook ground beef. Add Onions and Green Pepper to the meat while it's cooking. Drain.
Mix Ranch Salad Dressing together according to the instructions on the package. (Use Milk if it calls for Buttermilk.)
Chop Tomato
Chop Lettuce

In a large bowl combine: Cooked ground beef, Salad Dressing mixture, & drained red beans. Mix with a large spoon until white dressing is blended throughout.. Refrigerate for about an hour.

Serve it cold over tortilla chips and garnish with lettuce, tomatoes and cheese. A wonderful summer treat but can be enjoyed all year!!