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TheFosterFirmWins.com • 404-559-8325 • June/July 2024
THE JOURNEY OF JUNETEENTH From Isolation to Jubilation
Imagine it’s 1863. President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation has just gone into effect, promising freedom to all enslaved people in the southern states of the Confederacy. There are no cellphones or internet, and you are a slave on an island in southern Texas. It would take another 2 1/2 years before the enslaved people of Galveston would learn of their emancipation when Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived on June 19, 1865, informing Texans that all enslaved people were free. That day lives on as a celebration of freedom and the culture and achievements of African Americans. Though it has been historically celebrated as early as 1866, Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, almost 40 years after Martin Luther King Jr. Day was signed into law in 1983. Those early celebrations included prayer meetings, the singing of spirituals, feasts, and celebrants wearing new clothes to represent their freedom. Flash forward to today, and Juneteenth has entire celebrations, festivals, and concerts dedicated to this important day. My connection to Juneteenth runs deep. I have family roots in Galveston and attended a reunion there right before the pandemic. I’m happy to see this historical moment get the recognition it deserves. When I imagine what enslaved people experienced at that time, I can’t help but think of the isolation and disempowerment they faced. When the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect, it did not mean the immediate
freeing of all slaves. It only applied to places under Confederate control, not slave- holding border states or areas under Union control. Texas became a haven for enslavers, and even after Granger’s visit, there were still enslavers who didn’t share the news until after harvest season. Slavery in the United States was formally abolished on Dec. 6, 1865, with the 13th Amendment. Of course, it would be many years before the Civil Rights Movement sought true equality. I love all the local Juneteenth celebrations in the Atlanta area and encourage you to attend one. There’s the Juneteenth Music Festival right here in College Park on June 15, the Main Street Market Juneteenth Celebration in Jonesboro on June 15, and the Juneteenth Parade and Music Festival at Piedmont Park on June 22, which is the state’s largest event for the holiday. Another excellent way to celebrate Juneteenth is by reading classic pieces of African American literature like “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou and “Invisible Man” by Ralph Ellison. You can find a great list of recommended reading from Penguin Random House at PenguinRandomHouse.com/ the-read-down/juneteenth. If movies are more your style, several fantastic documentaries about Juneteenth exist. PBS has an entire series called “Juneteenth Jamboree,” which highlights the history of the holiday, its impacts today, and how the country celebrates this day. They also have a documentary called “Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom.” You can access all of those for free on the PBS website.
With the recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, this vital day continues to be celebrated louder and prouder than ever. Just recently, on May 4, Opal Lee, an activist instrumental in getting Juneteenth designated as a federal holiday, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This is the highest civilian award one can receive. Lee has fought for equity and justice since the age of 12 when a white mob destroyed her childhood home. Several organizations are building her a new home on the same land she was kicked out of, and it’s set to be finished right in time for Juneteenth. I’m so proud of my roots in Galveston and this holiday means so much to me. Really, Juneteenth means so much to our entire country. This day symbolizes justice and freedom and the struggles African Americans have faced that must be remembered and learned from. I will always celebrate both the Fourth of July as the American Revolution and Juneteenth as our day of freedom.
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Hosting the Ultimate Outdoor Movie Night Moonlit Movie Magic
Whether it’s blocking pucks during a street hockey game or checkmating chess hustlers at the park, traditionally indoor activities take on an entirely new feel and flavor when taken outside. While a rare sight these days, movie- goers worldwide used to enjoy cinema from the comfort of their cars at drive-in theaters. These made a brief resurgence during the pandemic, but now that movies are rolling in theaters again, the fad has begun to die off.
all the conveniences you would expect at a movie theater — like an air mattress, pillows, and blankets!
If you are looking for a fun way to spruce up a traditional movie night, what better way than to bring it outside under the stars? Here are some necessities to make your moonlight movie night truly magical: • A portable projector screen, like a sheet on a clothesline • Portable movie projector • Candy, popcorn, and beverages • Some outdoor seating and cushions • Lamps, lanterns, or candles • Warm blankets • The perfect movie to bring it all together You can find screens and projectors to fit any budget, and your movie selection will depend on the crowd. Just make it fun: Lie back on the grass and watch “Antz” or lounge in the pool while watching “Jaws”! The key is to make the experience unforgettable, and all who share in it will be thankful for your effort to make it all possible.
These days, if you want to watch a movie, it seems like you are limited to three options: Watching it at the
theater, on your TV, or on your phone or tablet. Now, I think we can all agree that watching a movie outside on your phone does not make for a great cinematic experience. Debtrette, a TikTok influencer and mom, has a suggestion. She put a spin on an old classic — family movie night — by holding it in her backyard with
Go for the Gold TRAIN LIKE AN OLYMPIAN
Get ready to channel your inner champion because the 2024 Summer Olympics are here, and it’s time to train like an Olympian! I have always loved tuning into the Olympics every four years to marvel at these athletes who have reached the top of their physical fitness game! As a fitness and international Zumba instructor, I thought it was the perfect time to craft an easy workout inspired by different Olympic sporting events. So, get ready to grab that imaginary gold medal and work up a sweat with these simple physical fitness tips! Swimming: If swimming is your favorite Olympic event, splash your way to fitness at the local pool. Many gyms and YMCAs offer affordable water aerobics classes, which are excellent, low-intensity workouts that can help you lose weight. Beach Volleyball: Ready to get that beach volleyball bikini body? Running and jogging, especially on a low-impact surface like the
beach, are wonderful aerobic exercises that build stronger bones, strengthen muscles, burn calories, and maintain a healthy weight. If you are new to working out, start walking regularly and build up your pace over time. Taekwondo: Taekwondo is a martial art in which combatants kick and punch their opponent while avoiding being struck themselves. The practice requires deep concentration and balance. This and other martial arts like tai chi and jiujitsu are great for improving flexibility, muscle tone, and agility. You can sign up for a martial arts class or try kickboxing. Golf: You can reap the benefits of golf by visiting the local golf course and playing a solo round. You can alternatively challenge a friend or two to a round. Here in the greater Atlanta area, I recommend the College Park Golf Course or East Lake Golf Club. Cycling: Riding a bicycle can build your strength and endurance for any sport. All
it takes is 2–4 hours a week of cycling to start seeing improvements in your health. Atlanta is a very bike-friendly city with a mix of wonderful beginner trails and more advanced trails. The Boundary Waters Paved Path, Wolf Creek Trail, and the Phoenix Trail are all simple trails only around a mile. You don’t have to travel to Paris this year to experience the world of Olympians; you can let the spirit of the Games ignite your passion for fitness right at home!
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Hot Tips for Keeping Cool on Your Road Trip SAFETY FIRST, ADVENTURE SECOND
Plan to drive safely. If you are the driver, get proper sleep before you take off. According to the National Sleep Foundation, drowsy drivers are responsible for 6,400 U.S. deaths annually. You also need to avoid any medications that could make you sleepy. Never drive if you are having trouble keeping your eyes open. You can do this by rotating driving duties. It’s also wise to have your GPS cued up and take screenshots of the directions in case you lose reception. Though the weather
As the summer sun beckons us to hit the open road, it’s time to pump the brakes and guarantee that we are well-prepared for a safe vacation. From ensuring your vehicle is in top-notch condition to packing the perfect roadside emergency kit, taking extra precautions before leaving home is essential. So, buckle up as we share the tips to keep you cruising smoothly this summer. Prepare for the heat. As the temperature rises, your body and car must work extra hard to stay cool. Check out the air conditioning in your vehicle to prevent your passengers from overheating. It’s also important to look under the hood and inspect your belts and hoses for any heat damage like bulges, blisters, or cracks in the rubber. Replace anything with signs of damage before your trip. Heatstroke can be severe for adults and deadly for children. So, don’t leave children alone in a vehicle, even for a minute. Always carry a substantial supply of water and use sunscreen. Create an emergency kit. Even vehicles in fantastic condition can break down or get held up by bad weather conditions. It’s essential to create an emergency roadside kit you can keep in your car in case the unexpected occurs. This kit should always include survival essentials — and don’t forget your cellphone. Pack a first-aid kit, flashlight, flares, car repair tools, water, nonperishable foods, medicine, maps, towels, and emergency blankets.
can change quickly, do your best to check the weather ahead of your trip to avoid potentially
dangerous driving conditions. So, whether you’re cruising down a scenic road or heading to a bustling city, buckle up, stay alert, and make memories that’ll last a lifetime!
Pan-Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Tempeh
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil • 2 shallots, thinly sliced •
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4 medium sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise 1 small crisp apple, coarsely chopped Zest and juice of 1/2 lime 1/3 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
2 chipotle chiles in adobo, coarsely chopped 1 8-oz block tempeh, crumbled into small pieces
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Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. Place rack in bottom third of oven; preheat to 425 F. In large cast-iron skillet over high heat, add oil and cook shallots, chiles, and tempeh until oil is sizzling; reduce heat to medium and cook until tempeh is golden brown, 8–10 minutes. 2. Set a sieve over a large heatproof bowl, drain tempeh, and season with salt. Set aside tempeh and oil. 3. Add potatoes to bowl with oil mixture and season with salt; turn to coat. Arrange potatoes cut side down in skillet; set bowl of oil aside. Roast potatoes in oven until browned, 25–30 minutes. 4. To bowl with oil mixture, add apple, zest, juice, and cilantro and toss to coat. 5. Transfer potatoes to a platter. Spoon tempeh mixture over top with apple salad.
Community Spotlight
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1895 Phoenix Blvd., Ste. 110 Atlanta, GA, 30349 TheFosterFirmWins.com 404-559-8325
INSIDE THIS ISSUE My Personal Connection to Galveston page 1 Host a Movie Night Under the Stars page 2 Fun Home Workouts for Your Inner Champion page 2 Build Your Ultimate Roadside Survival Kit page 3 Community Spotlight page 3 Pan-Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Tempeh page 3 Perfect Spots for a Laid-Back Holiday page 4
OFF THE RADAR Hidden Gem Vacation Destinations
Crater Lake National Park Make your way to Oregon and dive into the deepest lake in the country! Crater Lake National Park’s namesake was formed when a volcanic eruption triggered a mountain to come apart in spectacular fashion. You can stay at plenty of campsites and find excellent fishing in the lake’s pristine and seemingly bottomless water. If you are a fan of hiking, fishing, or breathtaking views, then Crater Lake is for you. Crater of Diamonds State Park If you have ever felt envious of the prospectors who made their riches during the California Gold Rush, then pay a visit to Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where you can discover your own hidden gems! You can discover rare rocks and minerals in a massive field birthed
Are you tired of visiting hyped-up vacation destinations or getting lost in a big city or crowded national park? If so, consider a holiday at a less congested, more laid-back locale. These hidden gems offer beautiful views and exciting excursions — all without the headaches that come with vacationing to big-name destinations! Pinnacles National Park Make an excursion to Pinnacles in California to enjoy the splendor of nature without having to share space with millions of tourists. With over 30 miles of hiking trails crisscrossing rocky hills and river-strewn caverns, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for memorable adventure. Despite its wondrous views, Pinnacles was named the 15th least- visited national park in 2023, with just over 340,000 annual visitors.
by volcanic activity, including diamonds, amethysts, garnets, and quartz. The best part? Anything you find, you can keep! Seekers have found more than 35,000 diamonds at the park since it opened in 1972, and with some luck, you could add a few more to that tally!
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