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THEE TRA ININ TO THE PLANENE

arrivingiving april 22 MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. Volume 29 Number 12 March 2016 -Proverbs 31:26

PUBLISHER It’s Women’s History Month and as we usher in the time of year when the country focuses on women, and celebrate Rosalind J. Harris and honor their achievements, it’s also a time of learning, understanding and educating. The journey is just beginning and for some the trek will be tumultuous. What better time than now to join nine coura- GENERAL MANAGER geous women who are walking in the footsteps of others with the desire to make a difference with a politically voice. Lawrence A. James DUS contributor, Charles Emmons reached out to several African American women who are hoping to help shape MANAGING EDITOR Denver’s political landscape in several high profile positions. Find out why they feel they are the best person to fill the seat Angelia D. McGowan they are seeking. Misti Aas shares how and why a local and well-known vocalist is stepping out on faith with starting her own long-over- CONTRIBUTING COPY EDITOR due entertainment band. And Melovy Melvin talks with a health and wellness specialist who brought her expertise and Tanya Ishikawa experience to the Mile High City from the UK nine years ago. In addition to these contemporary women warriors, Theo Wilson teaches us about some historic female warriors as far COLUMNISTS Ofari Hutchinson back as 1583 and how they, through sacrifices and courage, help lay the groundwork and foundation for us today. Theo Wilson So, as you learn about women this month and understand what they did and why, pass it on and educate others. From the words of a very good friend, you have to know your history - people who don’t know there history are like a FILM CRITIC trees without roots. BlackFlix.Com This is Women’s History Month. Last month was Black History Month. But for US, every day is Living History Month. Learn it, understand it and pass it on. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Misti Aas Charles Emmons Melovy Melvin Rosalind J. Harris Sydney M. Odion-Smith Publisher

ART DIRECTOR Bee Harris LETTER TO THE EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jody Gilbert God Responds to Donald Trump with the Pope. Instead, you said, “For each of the words pointed to the same Kolor Graphix By Rob Okun a religious leader to question a per- phrase: “You Choose.” A real WWJD Donald, my son, son’s faith is disgraceful… When the moment, don’t you think? PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Vatican is attacked by ISIS — which as A few months ago I wrote to Kim Melovy Melvin I have been troubled for some time knowing you don’t feel a need to ask everyone knows is ISIS’s ultimate tro- Davis, the county clerk in Kentucky CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Me for forgiveness when you’ve done phy — I can promise you that the who was refusing to issue marriage Lens of Ansar something wrong. And now, with Pope would have only wished and licenses. I told her the essence of all I Bernard Grant your strong remarks to one of my prayed that Donald Trump would do can be boiled down to two words: have been President…” “Love wins.” Today, thinking about DISTRIBUTION staff, Pope Francis, I felt even more Glen Barnes urgency to write. The Pope pray for you, Donald? you, Donald, I’m adding two more: Lawrence A. James “I love God and I love my Inciting people’s fallen angels is not “Forgiveness counts.” Ed Lynch church,” you said last July. That’s the road to a principled life. Calling If you want to feel cleansed, it’s good. Yet, in practically the same for a ban on Muslims entering your going to take more than having a little breath you said you don’t ask Me for country? Advocating spying on wine…and a little cracker. It’s going to forgiveness for any of your transgres- mosques? Considering establishing a take actually asking for forgiveness. sions. You told a CNN reporter, “If I database of all Muslims living in the Be in touch, Don, when you’re do something wrong… I just try and U.S.? That’s your idea of how to ready. make it right. I don’t bring God into “Make America Great Again”? G that picture; I don’t.” You want people of faith to sup- Editor’s note: Rob Okun is a psychothera- The Denver Urban Spectrum is a Don’t bring Me into the picture? port you, yet you keep making divi- pist practicing in Amherst, Massachusetts monthly publication dedicated to Really? And then you said — talking sive, mean-spirited remarks. A couple and the editor of Voice Male, a national spreading the news about people of about Communion—that “When I of my senior people — archangels magazine chronicling the transformation of color. Contents of the Denver Urban drink my little wine (which is about Michael and Gabriel — think I’m masculinity. He writes for PeaceVoice. Spectrum are copyright 2016 by Bizzy the only wine I drink) and have my being too soft on you. I disagree; I Bee Enterprise. No portion may be believe you understand where I’m Denver Urban Spectrum reproduced without written permission little cracker, I guess that is a form of asking for forgiveness, and I do that as coming from without My having to Department E-mail Addresses of the publisher. lash out with a mighty hand and an often as possible because I feel Denver Urban Spectrum The Denver Urban Spectrum circu- outstretched arm; with great terror lates 25,000 copies throughout cleansed.” [email protected] and with signs and wonders. Colorado. The Denver Urban Spectrum “Drink your little wine. Have your Sexist comments about women? Publisher welcomes all letters, but reserves the little cracker?” That’s how you “feel [email protected] right to edit for space, libelous material, cleansed?” Racist remarks about people of color? grammar, and length. All letters must Humiliating and denigrating Editor Why do you need to ask Me for [email protected] include name, address, and phone forgiveness? Pope Francis told a Muslims, immigrants, and number. We will withhold author’s name reporter that, “A person who thinks minorities? Saying, “I could stand in News & Information [email protected] on request. Unsolicited articles are only about building walls — wherever the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot accepted without guarantee of publica- they may be — and not building somebody and I wouldn’t lose vot- Advertising & Marketing tion or payment. bridges is not Christian. This is not in ers?” Oy. [email protected] Write to the Denver Urban Spectrum Donald, one of my angels showed at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. the gospel.” Donald, that was an Graphics & Design opportunity to stop, to think, to pray up for a staff meeting on Friday sport- [email protected] For advertising, subscriptions, or ing a T-shirt with the words, “Love” other information, call 303-292-6446 or — to take some time in deep contem- Distribution & Circulation and “Fear” printed chest high, and fax 303-292-6543 or visit the Web site at plation. At the very least, it was an [email protected] www.denverurbanspectrum.com. opportunity to request an audience spaced far apart. The arrows beneath

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 3 The political sea- son is here. Most of the media focus is on the Black Women Vying to Shape national race for the presidency. More stri- dent utterances and COLORADO’S POLITICAL LANDSCAPE accusations make the By Charles Emmons headlines coming out of the debates and the Arapahoe County. In November 2014, Senator Gloria Tanner, State Rep. ASSET bill that ensured Colorado Twitter accounts of the candidates. she was reelected to her third term. Rosemary Marshall and City high school students have access to in- Hillary Clinton has work to do, if she Personal tragedy drove her into poli- Councilwoman Edna Mosley, my state tuition. I will fight to increase tics when her son Javad and his heroes growing up were the architects school funding, and to make college is to become the first woman presi- fiancée were killed prior to his testify- of the civil rights movement. I admire more affordable and accessible. In dent. History will be made if she is ing in a murder trial. She fought to people like Thurgood Marshall, 2015, I worked to tackle the distrust pass House Bill 1379, which was Charles Hamilton Houston, and between our community and police successful. designed to help ensure the safety of Constance Baker Motley. All of these and passed six bills with bi-partisan But politics is local, and nine witnesses. The bill was passed and leaders demonstrated to me that pro- support that improved training African American women in the named the Javad Marshall Fields & gressive social change was not con- requirements, brought transparency Denver metro area are poised to make Vivian Wolfe Witness Protection Act. fined to the streets, and that true and required the use of body cameras. their own history. As the demograph- It is in memory of her son’s activism could also be practiced in the I will continue to work with commu- ics of the city and suburbs change, courage, confidence and heroism that courtroom and legislature. Because of nity members, leaders and police offi- there are more opportunities for seats she founded the Fields Wolfe these amazing individuals – I can cers on these important issues. in the different legislative and policy- Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organiza- stand up and speak up! #2) Having been a business owner, I making bodies – a handful have come tion designed exclusively to promote am an active supporter of small busi- before them, and their names are well academic excellence, civic engagement ANGELA WILLIAMS, 52 nesses and passed bills encouraging known…Vikki Buckley, Wilma Webb, and community service. Colorado State Senate, District 33 growth and reducing barriers to their Gloria Tanner, Elbra Wedgeworth, #1) During my three terms in the Angela Williams is a significant success. I will continue to help grow Happy Haynes, Rosemary Marshall, Colorado House of Representatives, I leader in the Colorado State House. our economy and create more high Edna Mosley . have worked hard to bring smart, Representing paying, local, jobs. Now, another generation of candi- innovative and effective approaches to District 7, she is the We must concentrate on rebuilding dates is looking out for your interests government. I have led on passing leg- Majority Caucus the middle class, and reinforcing the in the role of government, keeping islation to strengthen ours schools, chair, founder and American Dream through increasing you safe, facilitating economic growth champion equal rights, create safer chair of the access to education and creating an and educating your children. We communities, and promote access to Colorado Black economy working for everyone. In asked them three questions to give affordable housing and health care. Democratic 2015, I introduced and passed legisla- readers insight into who they are and Despite personal threats, I continue to Legislative Caucus, tion which created a grant program to what they will do if elected. Some of stand up to the most extreme wing of and was recently close an information gap – the lack of their answers have been edited for the NRA and led the effort to pass appointed as the public awareness of the available good length, but every effort was made not groundbreaking gun safety legislation. co-chair of the National Black Caucus jobs in certain industries. I will contin- to change context or meaning. Colorado needs bold progressive lead- of State Legislators Business and ue to fight for equity in state procure- Question 1: Politics are local. What ership that will not be afraid to con- Economic Development Committee. ment contracts, equal pay, and higher experience do you bring to be an effective front the challenges we face. I will be Before pursuing a life in public serv- minimum wages. lawmaker or policy maker to solve prob- that fighting voice. ice, Williams was the principal owner #3) Michelle Obama is my political lems in our communities, and why are #2) I will invest in people and pro- of the Angela Williams Allstate hero. She is a strong, smart and articu- you the best person to fill the seat you are tect the values we share – justice, fair- Insurance Agency for 14 years. She is late African American woman who seeking? ness and community. This means pro- now the principal of AW Consulting represents community. During her Question 2: What is your plan to make tecting our air, water and land. It Inc. Williams worked to protect time in the White House she has made our communities better and participants means fighting for an economy allow- Colorado children’s educational progress on issues important to work- in Colorado’s prosperity? ing every Coloradoan to share in our futures by successfully opposing legis- ing families such as education, healthy Question 3: Who are your political growth and prosperity. It means lation that would cut school breakfast families, and higher education. (s)heroes and why? strengthening our system of education subsidies. In addition, Williams’ so that children have the opportunity efforts have focused on helping home- KHADIJA KATHERINE HAYNES, 57 RHONDA FIELDS, 62 to pursue their dreams. As Democrats, owners experiencing enormous finan- Colorado State Senate, District 33 Colorado State Senate, District 29 we know that a strong middle class cial burdens. She sponsored legislation Khadija Katherine Haynes is a State Rep. Rhonda Fields was first means a stronger nation. expanding the state’s foreclosure native of Denver and a fourth genera- elected to serve the Colorado House of Clearly Colorado needs a champion deferment program and introduced tion Coloradoan. Representatives for – a leader who will push open doors the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Haynes has been the 68th General to create ladders of opportunity for Program Bill. She also helped negoti- politically active Assembly in 2010. families and individuals alike. We ate $4.6 million in foreclosure mitiga- in the Denver She is the first owe it to the next generation to level tion funds from the U.S. attorney gen- community for African-American the playing field, and I will never stop eral’s office. more than 40 woman elected to fighting for our children’s futures. #1) I have strived to listen to my years, having the state legislature #3) Apart from several local leaders neighbors’ concerns and then take worked in vari- to represent who all have played an instrumental action. As a mother, I will always ous political Aurora’s House role in shaping my political perspec- emphasize the importance of educa- campaigns ranging from school District 42, tive like the Honorable Wilma Webb, tion. I was the prime sponsor on the Continued on page 4 Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 4 When all of these functions are tion is not simply to get more sleep; Lost Your Joy? thrown off from a lack of sleep, a per- but too sleep well. Good sleep SleepSleep Tight, Tight, son may find themselves eating in depends on practicing strong sleep excess; and making unhealthy food habits. EatEat Right Right choices. The Perelman School of The National Sleep Foundation Medicine noted in their 2011 study, reports that some of these habits that participants, who got 7 to 8 hours include not eating heavy meals 2 to 3 of sleep per night, had a healthier hours before bed, sleeping in a room more varied diet. While those who got that is free of computers and televi- 6 hours of sleep or less, lacked many sions, eliminating naps, and partaking Find it again at the key nutrients in their diets. In addition in daily exercise; but not too close to United Church of Montbello! to this, other research has shown that your bedtime. Practicing these strate- Come as you are and get connected to your best self through great fellowship and the love of Jesus Christ! By Sydney M. Odion-Smith sleep deprived people are more likely gies on a routine basis will get your to be fatigued throughout the day; body in the habit of enjoying a better, Sunday Worship: 8:00am (Traditional) and 10:30am (Gospel) MSUD Nutrition Major 4VOEBZ 4DIPPM  BN r 8FEOFTEBZ #JCMF 4UVEZ QN and less likely to exercise. longer sleep – and making smarter, All of these factors can contribute nutritious food choices. You can check Rev. Dr. James E. Fouther, Jr., Pastor n honor of sleep awareness week, 4879 Crown Blvd., Denver, CO 80239 303-373-0070 I to a significant gain in weight and a out more helpful sleep tips at sleep- h p://ucm.ctsmemberconnect.net which starts on March 6, we are taking decrease in health. Though the solu- foundation.org. a closer look at the relationship between our eating habits and how much sleep we get. Sleep is a beautiful thing, and get- ting an adequate night’s rest is ideal. According to the National Sleep Foundation, “Young adults ages 18 to Ask about our 25, and adults over the age of 25, need around 7 to 9 hours of sleep while sen- Women’s History Open House Specials! iors over the age of 65 should aim for Saturday, April 9, 2016 7 to 8 hours of sleep.” Though these guidelines are helpful, they may not be practical for people who lead busy lives. As a college student who works and enjoys a social life, I find myself clocking in about 5 to 6 hours of sleep per night. And, many adults who are juggling a career, kids, or other life events sacrifice their sleep in order to keep up with everything else. However, research shows that cut- ting the amount of hours you sleep can actually slow you down. It has been found that people, who sleep less, are more likely to eat more. As well as eat poorly, and gain weight. In an article from WebMd, based on a 2012 study by the Mayo Clinic, when people were sleep deprived, they ate an extra 549 calories per day – which could add up to a pound of weight gained per week. One reason for this might be due to the effects sleep deprivation has on the body. In 2011, research published in The Open Respiratory Medicine Journal stated that, “Sleep deprivation has been associated with multiple physiological changes, including increased cortisol and ghrelin levels, decreased leptin levels and impaired glucose metabolism.” Cortisol is a hor- mone that responds to acute stress on the body, by releasing glucose (sugar) into the system to be used as energy. Ghrelin and leptin are also hormones. Ghrelin sends a signal to the brain when the body is hungry. And leptin sends a signal when the body is full. While a functioning metabolism allows the body to breakdown and utilize glucose properly.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 5 Black Women policy issues ranging from affordable city, this state and our country is State of Colorado, at a minimum, the Continued from page 2 housing to transportation, agriculture beyond what most may know. Her company’s labor force, should be rep- boards to initiatives and referred to economic development, and arts to moral compass and humility have resentative of Colorado’s demographic measures to presidential campaigns. mental health. I have working knowl- guided my life and have set a high bar ratio. Haynes is currently a principal at K- edge and experience in representing that I strive for every day. Because of #3) I cannot name one political hero. I Solutions, a political consulting, lobby- my community in many arenas. My her, I am proud to be in the “family believe that any person who stands up ing and public relations firm. She co- roots and commitment are deep and business.” against political oppression no matter founded The Urban Farm, a nonprofit strong. the form is a hero. It takes a lot of organization that teaches agricultural #2) Access to and the acquisition of ELET VALENTINE, 42 courage to stand by yourself, speak out and environmental education to high- livable-wage jobs, quality education, Colorado House of Representatives, District 7 against opposition, stay consistent, and risk urban youth. Haynes served as a affordable housing, meaningful health Elet Valentine is a native of Denver stand firm in their beliefs. Those are the Gubernatorial Appointee to the Board care (including mental health) and and grew up in the people I look up to. of Directors of the Scientific and fresh food are priorities. I plan to work Northeast Denver Cultural Facilities District; Mayoral steadfastly in these areas. neighborhoods of MICHELE WHEELER, 60+ Appointee to the Denver Parks and Additionally, I’ll focus on transporta- Cole, Park Hill, Colorado House of Representatives, District 7 Recreation Advisory Board; President tion, sensible economic development and now lives in Michele Wheeler has served active- of Colorado Black Women for Political and strengthening neighborhoods. I the Montbello ly with various community organiza- Action; Co-Chair of the Citizens plan to draw on my own experiences neighborhood. In tions, and has also Advisory Board for the Stapleton and the wisdom of community mem- 1996, Valentine had a long career Development Corporation and is on bers and others to contribute to vision- obtained her bachelors of arts degree in the health care the Board of Directors of the National ing and planning processes, which in behavioral science with a minor in industry, as well as Western Stock Show will influence outcomes for citizens in criminal justice from Metropolitan government and #1) Born into a multi-generational Senate District 33. The district is quite State College of Denver. She currently public institutions. political and activist family, I was diverse which brings great opportuni- pursues graduate studies in marriage Soon after grad- raised in the “family business.” At 18, ty for creative problem solving and and family therapy. Valentine spent uating from I registered with the Democratic Party the challenge not to settle for “one size the last 11 years as a small business Denver East High and within weeks was appointed to fits all” solutions. owner of Valentine Bail Bonds, L.L.C., School, she moved the Denver Democratic Party Central #3) My list of s/heroes is long and as a bail bond and recovery agent and to Washington, Committee – the youngest appointee each one I admire has given me an enjoys giving back to the community D.C. to attend the School of Radiologic ever. I served as the director of opera- invaluable piece of wisdom that I have and social justice issues. Other Technology at Freedman’s Hospital. In tions of the governor’s office during woven into the fabric of my political endeavors included giving 1979, she returned to Denver and com- the Romer Administration. I recently life. Perhaps, not surprisingly, at the Thanksgiving baskets to the elderly, pleted her bachelor’s degree from the served as both the policy director and top of my list is my mother, Anna Jo advocating for children with special University of Colorado and later the chief of staff of the Colorado Garcia Haynes. Though she has never needs in her community, and volun- earned her master’s degree in urban Senate Majority. I have a command of held elected office, her dedication to teering her time at other community and regional planning. Wheeler made the enrichment of this district, this non-profits. a substantial shift in her focus and #1) As a bail agent for nearly 13 worked in the Park Hill neighborhood years, I gained experience reading as the community justice advocate for statutes, regulations, policies, writing approximately four years. She was court motions, and defending those also employed by the Denver District actions in various judicial jurisdictions Attorney’s Office as a gun violence across the State of Colorado. I have prevention coordinator, a position that been politically active within the focused on gun violence prevention Democratic Party as a Precinct strategies in the Northeast Park Hill, Committee Person (PCP) and given Cole, and Montbello neighborhoods. testimony in front of committees at the After leaving the district attorney’s State Legislature, Denver City Council office in 2008, Wheeler worked part- meetings and the Denver Public time for the Stapleton Foundation, the Schools Board of Education. At the Colorado Clinical & Translational Citizen Oversight Board, A+ meeting I Sciences Institute and the Office of the EnjoyEnjoy more morre gold gold in yyouroour proposed an alternative plan to the Independent Monitor. closure of Montbello High School and #1) My education, experience, and publicly commented for the final record of working in this community goldengolden years. years. Environmental Impact Study (EIS) of and the district for more than 20 years the I-70 expansion plan, and in vari- make me the best person to fill the AAF FirstBankFirirstBank IRA makes makes it ssimple ttoo sasave.ve. And it’it’s’ss not ttoooo latlate;e; yyouou still ous community meetings. House District 7 State Representative havehave until April 15 ttoo makmakee your your 20 201515 ccontribution.ontribution. #2) The Black community is at a seat. I have been president of the systematic disadvantage on many Northeast Park Hill Coalition since fronts in the areas of economics, edu- 2003. I was a community research liai- cation, criminal justice, and healthcare. son for the Department of Family For any piece of legislation to work Medicine at the Anschutz Medical efficiently the system in which we Campus identifying health disparities. “With“With the choicchoicee of a TTrTraditionalrraditionaladitional IRA or R Rothoth IRA at ccompetitiveompetitive intinterester t rates,t it’it’s never ttoo earlyl operate, it must be changed. My num- I was employed by the Independent or tootoo late late to to ststartart sasavingving fforor rretirement.”etirrement.” ber one priority is improving the eco- Monitor as their community outreach DanielleDanielle N. Vaughan Vaughan nomic system to encompass diversity ombudsman, arranging mediations of VViceice P Presidentresident and inclusion. The State of Colorado complaints about the police and sher- FFirstBankirstBaank Holding Company Company CCommunityommmunity Reinvestment Reinvestment and FFairair Lending Lending must take the first step and be a repre- iff personnel. 303.626.6713303.626.6713 sentation for its citizens. To accom- #2) My plan will be and has always danielle.vaughan@efirstbank.comdanielle.vaughan@efirstbank.com plish this challenging task, legislation been to help people achieve their goals efirstbank.comefirstbank.com must be proposed and passed to make and dreams by helping them to MemberMembeer FDIC it mandatory for anyone doing busi- improve their quality of life, providing ness directly and indirectly with the our communities with the opportunity

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 6 to make themselves better and partici- service at the Colorado State Capitol. ple want safe neighborhoods, good Aurora. She is a pants in Colorado’s prosperity. I Under strong leaders such as former quality schools and opportunities to member of believe if the opportunity is not there, Speaker Andrew Romanoff, former participate in Colorado’s economic the Health, Insurance one cannot prosper or it becomes Majority Leader Alice Madden, for- growth. I will advance policies that & Environment and extremely difficult to do so. I will be a mer House District 8 Rep. Rosemary keep us safe and at the same time Education voice at the table, hopefully the joint- Marshall and Deputy Mayor advance sensible criminal justice Committees. budget committee table, advocating Treasurer Cary Kennedy, Herod reform and combat mass incarcera- Rep. Buckner retired for opportunities and services for you. gained direct experience in public tion. Further, the key to any thriving from a professional My door will always be open. Better policy. strong community is good quality career in 2007 after schools? Better housing? Better jobs? Later, Herod served as a senior pol- schools. I will fight to ensure that all more than three decades in medical Better access? Better environment? icy advisor to Gov. Bill Ritter, Jr., spe- our kids receive the quality education sales, training doctors and other hos- Together we can do this. cializing in social services, criminal that they deserve. Finally, we must pital personnel as well as other sales #3) My s(heroes) include Rep. justice, mental health, specific issues create an economic environment representatives. She has promised to Rhonda Fields for her faith, integrity, relating to senior citizens, and anti- where small businesses can thrive and be an advocate on women’s health strength of character and witness pro- poverty issues. She met regularly with where all members of our community issues. tection legislation for others; Rep. legislators and constituents to con- benefit from economic prosperity, not Early in her career she worked for Angela Williams for her respect and tribute to the creation of just and clear being pushed out of our neighbor- several years as a speech and lan- ability to garner bi-partisan support policy and laws. After leaving govern- hoods. I will fight for this. guage therapist. She has a bachelor’s for legislation; Attorney Linda Lee for ment service, Herod became a pro- #3) Honorable Rosemary Marshall degree in education from Ball State her strong legal mind; Dr. Marilyn gram officer with the Gill Foundation and Honorable Gloria Tanner are my University in Muncie, Ind. Mills-Walker for her strong medical where she led philanthropic initiatives heroes for many reasons. As Black #1) I have lived in Aurora since mind; Former Sen. Gloria Tanner as focusing on LGBT equality and female leaders, they did not just break 1975. The Colorado way of life is one the first African American woman alliance-building in communities of barriers, they committed and continue that I have known for 25 years now. senator in Colorado, who sponsored color. She serves on multiple commu- to commit their time and energy to My experience in education and the legislation on civil rights for women; nity boards and commissions and fighting for justice and to ensure com- medical field led me to be an advocate and former Rep. Wilma Webb for her recently, formed a strategic planning ing generations have the best opportu- for marginalized members of society. tenacity in establishing Dr. Martin and community partnership consult- nity to succeed. I stand on their shoul- My husband John was principal of Luther King, Jr. Day in Colorado. ing firm. ders. Overland High School and together #1) Dedicating my life and career to All of these women have brought we were deeply involved in our com- LESLIE HEROD, 33 finding real solutions to the problems positive changes to their communities munity and had an open door policy Colorado House of Representative, District 8 facing our state and our community, in numerous ways. And their respons- at our home. Now my open door poli- Leslie Herod is passionate about and utilizing my public policy educa- es show a passionate eagerness to take cy carries over into my life as a legisla- making a difference in the community tion and experience, I have worked on their commitments to the next level. tor. I am always excited to hear from through advocacy positive change initiatives-including The November election is only 8 my constituents and look forward to and civic engage- the Five Points Main Street Initiative months away. While that may seem continuing to be a voice for my neigh- ment. This passion and free breakfast programs for our like a long time, there is little time to bors. grew from a very kids. I worked with the Colorado waste. Make a point to get to know #2) This session I am sponsoring early age as she executive and legislative branches these women and the other candidates several bills that level the playing field watched her moth- making an impact on issues in social in your district. If these women are and ensure everyone’s shot at success. er who was an offi- services, criminal justice reform, elected, it will be historical. As the The House recently passed my first cer in the Army behavioral health, issues facing seniors metro area changes it is vitally impor- bill, Parental Involvement, which Nurse Corps serve and long-term solutions to address tant to stay connected. Attend meet- allows parents to take unpaid leave to her family, com- our homeless population. Not only ings; follow them on social media; attend important academic activities. munity and nation. Herod graduated have I worked on these issues at the ponder your selection and then vote in Additionally, I am co-sponsoring a bill from the University of Colorado at policy level, I volunteer my time in the November. that ensures businesses that receive Boulder where she was elected presi- schools and with homeless youth to state contracts pay men and women dent of the Student Union’s determine how we can keep improv- JANET BUCKNER, 69 equally for the same work. I am also Legislative Council and made it her ing. I will put this experience, my pas- Colorado House of Representative, District 40 working on a bill that creates a public- mission to create a campus climate sion, and my dedication to our com- Rep. Janet P. Buckner was elected private partnership allowing employ- that was inclusive of all students munity to work as a state legislator. by a vacancy committee in July 2015 to ees not currently offered access to a regardless of race, class, sexual orien- #2)) Knocking on doors across the serve the remainder of the term of her workplace retirement plan to save for tation, gender or ability. After gradu- district and attending community late husband, John W. Buckner, repre- their future. These bills prepare work- ating, she continued to work in public meetings, I hear consistently that peo- senting House District 40 in southern Continued on page 6

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 7 Black Women #2) My plan is to focus on three Denver. As a business owner, I bring Low graduation and high dropout Continued from page 5 main issues: education, attainable hous- business expertise to the community. I rates combined with a lack of funding ing families to lead stronger more eco- ing and amending TABOR. served on the board of the Aurora has plagued some APS schools. I will nomically stable lives, which in turn Empowering our teachers also empow- Public School Educational Foundation. champion small business develop- helps the economy and the communi- ers our students. We need to listen to I am a past board member of the ment, which is important to our eco- ty as a whole. our teachers to find out what’s working Conference of Minority Transportation nomic prosperity and affordable hous- #3) My (s)heroes include Gloria and what’s not working. It is essential Officials Colorado and in 2015 I was ing development in Aurora. Tanner, Rosemary Marshall, and for our citizens to be able to afford a appointed to the City of Aurora #3) My first (s)hero is my mother Wilma Webb, three African American place to live and I believe the ability to Citizen’s Advisory Committee. I am who was a progressive entrepreneur. women who served in the Colorado own a home is critical to growing a the president of the newly formed Her work with the United Nations Legislature. All three of these women strong middle class. It’s unfortunate our African Chamber of Commerce of and the World Health Organization worked hard to pave the way for fast growing economy is hampered by Colorado-USA. I also served as treas- brought justice for the needs of the women like me to continue to serve TABOR. We must address the “Hospital urer of the African-American Initiative less fortunate in Liberia and around Colorado. They made tremendous Provider Fee” issue to free up space in of the Colorado Democratic Party. the world. Ella Jo Baker was a brilliant contributions to Colorado, and our budget. #2) I believe being raised in Aurora black woman whose legacy inspired a because of their dedication, I’m now #3) Children, especially, don’t know makes me best qualified to address the whole generation. Others include Ida fortunate enough to represent House who they “can be” or what they can needs and issues of North Aurora in B. Wells-Barnett who’s passion for District 40. I hope to use that good for- do if they don’t get a chance to “look House District 42. There are many Justice was uncompromising; Ellen tune to improve the lives of hard- over the fence.” I was lucky enough to challenges and opportunities with its Johnson Sirleaf, the first elected Black working families in Aurora and across see Shirley Chisholm on TV one day. cultural diversity and more than 136 female president of Liberia; Leymah the state. And surely, the fact that she was a languages spoken in Aurora Public Gbowee, a Liberian peace activist and Black was the first things I noticed. Schools. Immigrants and refugees Nobel Peace Prize winner; Tawakkol DOMINIQUE JACKSON, 55 But ever so the researcher, I started comprise a large percentage of the Karman of Yemen, the first Arab Colorado House of Representatives, District 42 looking into her life and discovered population in Aurora, yet our con- woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize; Dominique Jackson currently sits as that she became the person she was, cerns are not heard in the State and Rep. Rhonda Fields for her pas- a commissioner on not just because of her strong sense of Capitol. I will champion the cause of sion for justice and fairness and for  the Citizen’s fighting for what she believed was educational issues for our children. doing the right thing. Advisory right (a trait I too possess), but simply, because she loved others. Committee for Editor’s Note: Just as we are proud of the African American women who are striving to make a Housing & difference (and history) in their communities, we are also proud of the African American men AQUETTA ICKS Community N R , 48 looking to serve Colorado communities. Development for Colorado House of Representatives, District 42 the City of Aurora. Naquetta Ricks is a longtime TONY EXUM,HOUSE DISTRICT 17 Aurora resident, small business- In this role, the Tony Exum Sr. was elected in 2012 to represent woman, innovative board votes to House District 17 in southeastern Colorado Springs. A and strong com- fund various projects and develop- retired battalion chief in the Colorado Springs Fire munity leader, par- ments to ensure the availability of Department, he spent 35 years making his city safer. ent, and graduate quality, affordable housing; to create According to his website, Rep. Exum believes opportu- of the University of opportunities for locally-owned small nity must be available to all Coloradans, not just the Colorado Denver business to get started and grow; and privileged few, he will fight to make sure Colorado tax dollars are cre- Business School. to help insure quality of life for all ating Colorado jobs that can’t be outsourced and he knows that if the As our state recov- Aurora residents. Jackson was next generation is going to compete in a global economy, we need to ers from the worst appointed by Denver Mayor John invest in Colorado classrooms, not protect special interest tax loopholes. recession since the Great Depression, Hickenlooper, and re-appointed by Rep. Exum lives in Colorado Springs. His son Tony Jr. is a noted jazz sax- Colorado working families look for Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, to ophonist. serve on the Commission on leaders who will focus on giving their Homelessness. She was appointed and children access to tools they need to ERIC NELSON,HOUSE DISTRICT 42 compete in the 21st century. With a reappointed to serve on to the Eric D. Nelson, Ph.D., is a life visionary, entrepreneur, background in auditing and finance Sustainability Advisory Council by former educator, and veteran community and politi- gained through her work with Mayor Hancock. Jackson is interested cal organizer. He currently serves his community as a Lockheed Martin, Regional in learning more about people, busi- member of the Aurora Public Schools Board of Transportation District (RTD) and US ness and her neighbors; she has partic- Education and served his country in the U.S. Air Force. West, Ricks hopes to bring that vital ipated in several leadership training Although his service on the school board has been experience to ensure that the state leg- opportunities including: Leadership a rewarding and informative experience, Nelson has found that there islature is accountable to Colorado Aurora, Leadership Denver, are many barriers to improving the school learning environment. As a taxpayers. Congressional Black Caucus state representative, he hopes to sweep away those barriers and give Ricks is treasurer of the 6th Leadership Institute, and Emerge more children the opportunity to achieve the education and experi- Congressional District and a member America. ences they need to reach their full potential. of the Central Committee. She is a #1) I am running to represent my As a small business owner and banker, he understands that a strong member of the African Leadership neighbors in North Aurora because middle class is key to the overall economic health of our state. Group and the Women Empowerment many of the issues we face can only be Dr. Nelson earned a B.A. in psychology from Southeastern University, Group, working professionals serving changed at the state level. I am a Master of Social Work from Northwest Nazarene University, an MBA the immigrant community by helping uniquely qualified because I have per- from Northeastern University, and a doctorate in organizational psy- individuals integrate into American sonally experienced many similar chology from Southeastern University in Washington, D.C. society. struggles. I’ve served on the board of Nelson has extensive experience working with young people as a vol- #1) For more than 18 years, I have Aurora@Home, the Commission on unteer and mentor through his present service as a school board mem- worked in complex industries – trans- ber and past service as a board member for Bennie E. Goodwin After- Homelessness, and the Sustainability portation, defense, information tech- School Academic Program, a youth civic engagement nonprofit. He is and Advisory Commission and El nology and real estate. I received my also a minister and elder at the Potter’s House Church of Denver. Centro Humanatario. These positions bachelor’s degree in accounting from Nelson moved to Colorado in 2000 from his native Georgia. He lives require an ability to bring consensus Metro State University and my MBA in Aurora with his three children and wife, Laura. to complicated problems. from the University of Colorado

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 8

tion for the past half century, win or lose. Black voters have been so reli- No Mystery Why able, maybe too reliable, that Democrats have been repeatedly rapped for plantationism; that is for Sanders and taking the black vote for granted and offering little tangible benefits in Clinton Trek to return for their unyielding support. If black voters had not turned the Democratic primaries in 2008 into a Sharpton virtual holy crusade for Obama, and if By Earl Ofari Hutchinson Obama had not openly in the South Carolina primary and subtly in pri- He’s their favorite racial punching politicians in need of a boost to turn to emocratic maries thereafter stoked the black D bag in part because of who many per- the Rev Al. Black politicians, and vari- presidential can- vote, he would have been just another ceive him to be and the influence that ous Democratic candidates have failed Democratic presidential candi- didate Bernie he has on the street with many blacks, leaped over themselves to get mug date. The fight for the White House Sanders and rival Latinos, the poor and community shots, endorsements, and a spot on the then may well have been between Hillary Clinton activists. This is a constituency that no dais at the National Action Network’s 2008 GOP presidential candidate John liberal or moderate Democrat, least of confabs. At times, even some trek to a meeting McCain and Clinton. all Sanders and Clinton, can afford to Republicans have saber rattled fence with the Reverend This bears heavily on a brutal racial ignore or alienate. sitting white voters with the dread of political reality. The emergence of Al Sharpton for Sharpton’s appeal is his media pull Sharpton. Trump and Cruz as real threats to two reasons. The first is Sharpton him- and image. The lines between the two This is not to say that he is the con- grab the GOP presidential nomination, self. President Obama paid absolutely are hopelessly blurred. A sound bite, summate political king or queen their thinly disguised anti-immigrant, photo-op, rock star and Hollywood maker. But that doesn’t much matter no heed to the by now ritualistic anti- anti-Muslim and anti-woman pander- celebrity allure can mean as much if in the glare of the cameras. A beaming Sharpton name calling by the assorted ing, the droves of ultra-conservatives, not more in determining a candidate’s President Obama standing before a and evangelicals that buy this line, menagerie of right wing talk show political fate than what they have to bank of TV cameras with Sharpton at and their stoking the fury of lower hosts, pundits, and unreconstructed say about global warming, the deficit, his side shows for the moment that income blue collar white workers dis- bigots who take giddy delight in spin- Syria, the Middle East conflicts, Russia the man who many love and many illusioned, disgusted and hostile and North Korea, campaign reform, or more love to hate is in his camp. For ning the line that he is an ego driven, toward government, have made the Wall Street domination, or even health Sharpton it showed that he was media hogging race baiting agitator black vote loom bigger still in the care reform. important enough for Obama to want Democrat’s 2016 calculus. There’s little and opportunist who will jump on The two Democratic presidential him in his camp. margin of error with this vote. Clinton any cause to get some TV face time. contenders by no means are the first The other reason Sanders went to or Sanders needs a reasonable facsimi- Harlem to meet Sharpton and Clinton le of the November 2008 black vote met with him too is not brain surgeon outpour to win the White House, save stuff. It can be summed up in three as many Democratic seats as possible, words: the black vote. From virtually and serve as a partial shield against day one of each candidate’s campaign, the extreme peril that a Cruz or the black vote has never been far from Trump triumph would pose to every- their calculation. Clinton has a long thing from a total right-wing takeover memory. She knows that South of the Supreme Court to a gut of the Carolina is as New Hampshire and Affordable Care Act. Iowa an early primary state. Black vot- That horrific prospect is more than ers make up the majority of enough to speed any Democratic pres- Democratic voters there, and in the idential candidate to trek to anyone 2008 battle with then Democratic rival who can help make sure that doesn’t Obama, her campaign came unglued happen. In this case, that someone there. happens again to be Sharpton. This time around she’s spent count- Editor’s note: Earl Ofari Hutchinson is an less days courting any and every black author and political analyst. His latest book Democratic official she can to make is Trump and the GOP: Race Baiting to the sure that doesn’t happen again. White House (Amazon Kindle) He is a fre- Sanders after establishing himself as a quent MSNBC contributor. He is an asso- real contender has moved quickly to ciate editor of New America Media. He is a try and make up ground with black weekly co-host of the Al Sharpton Show on voters in the state. South Carolina is Radio One. He is the host of the weekly no anomaly. Blacks make up either the Hutchinson Report on KPFK 90.7 FM Los majority or near majority of the Angeles and the Pacifica Network Democratic vote in several other Southern states and those states’ pri- maries will follow close on the heels of South Carolina. A big win in these states will do much to seal the nomi- nation for either one. Beyond the immediate importance of the black vote this election go around, the black vote has been the Democrats’ trump card in every elec-

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 10 Linda Styles: An Unfolding Journey of Transformation - By Misti Aas

very caterpillar goes through The Linda Styles Band will play the area club scene, as well as participat- its own path of metamorphosis. Once EE ing in many other venues such as fes- it spins its own cocoon, it emerges as a tivals, wedding receptions, private parties, and other events. The band unique and beautiful butterfly – tak- plans to become known for a variety ing flight with grace and confidence of genres; jazz, R&B, dance, pop, gospel, and perhaps even some coun- into a new world of possibility. try. Emerge Linda Styles who began Styles visualizes her new band to singing professionally at the age of 14, be outside the box and to develop its with a group called The Sweet and own brand of creative flair. “I want Sticky Band. Their first gig was at The our music and performances to Inferno Lounge, a nightclub in Kansas always be a dynamic and memorable City, Missouri. On break, the musi- experience,” said Styles. cians had to sit on the side of the stage L to R: Paul Taylor, Ken Nieves, Linda Styles, Shelley McMillion, Skip Lynch, and Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, because they weren’t old enough to be Michael White Photo by ?????????? Patti LaBelle, Natalie Cole, Nancy anywhere else in the club. The talent Wilson and Anita Baker are among of the young singer had begun to truly and contributions ed a concert in San Styles’ greatest musical influences. She blossom, and from that moment, she to the Denver com- Diego. “Sitting in admires the soulful female legends never looked back. munity. the audience, I and their powerhouse voices, and The Kansas City native was born Over the past thought ‘I can do Styles prides herself in stretching her- into a musical family. Styles’ mother several years, that,’” reflected self to sing close to anything in almost was a professional singer, who Styles has been Styles. “Why am I any key. stopped her singing career to start a most known as a not doing what “Her greatest strength is she is very family. Her daughter never had a vital part of Ron they’re doing? I diverse,” said Ivory. “Linda can sing chance to hear her sing as she died Ivory’s musical realized the only absolutely anything.” when Styles was very young. “I made ensembles, from way for me to get The unfolding development of The a vow in my mom’s honor that I Suite ti to One on to where they are is Linda Styles Band is its own metamor- would never stop singing,” recalled One. She originally for me to make it phosis. The questions of who they are, Styles. “Regardless of where life took began singing with happen. I have to what will truly set them apart, and me, I vowed I would continue to pur- Ivory in the fall of do the work. I have who they will ultimately become is sue this dream. And with God’s bless- 1999, having met to get a band still a mystery that Styles embraces in ing, I have.” through a mutual together. It’s time this amazing transformative journey. The versatile singer has carried friend when Ivory for me to take The continuing evolution of this deter- forth this promise, working independ- was looking for a responsibility for mined and distinct artist, and that of ently, and with various bands and singer. me and my career.” her band, will be an exciting discovery vocal groups over the years. Styles has “Linda is the epitome of a team Styles started putting the wheels in for everyone to behold, as she spreads shared the stage with countless local player in any band,” said Ivory. “She motion and shared with friends, fami- her wings on her own path.  and national artists, including Ron has your back. We became very good ly and colleagues her intention of Editor’s note: For more information, visit Ivory and the Miles Apart Band, friends.” forming her own band. The over- www.lindastyles.me and follow her on Hazel Miller, Dotsero, Harold In 2006, Styles made the decision to whelming support she received from Facebook at www.facebook.com/linda. Melvin’s Blue Notes, Kim Waters, take a hiatus from secular music and everyone, including other musicians, pouncilstyles. Nelson Rangell, Tommy Thomas, sing exclusively gospel. In 2012, she was reinforcing and motivated her to Donald Harrison, Atlantic Star, The came back to her once familiar style of continue to take her goals, and herself, Platters, The Drifters, The Coasters, music. “God told me it was time to lay to a new level. and Latin Jazz Pianist Eddie Palmieri. it down for a moment. After six years, “I’ve had people ask me over the In 1999, Styles co-wrote and pro- I had an awakening and I felt it was years why I didn’t have my own URBAN duced her first single CD self-titled ok for me to pick it back up again.” band,” said Styles. “I wasn’t ready yet. Linda, and in 2001, participated in a Styles returned to working with Ivory. I was comfortable and loved working EVENTS compilation CD with Eric Epps, Life’s In addition, she has continued to work with Ron. Now I need to start writing Story, co-writing and performing six with other local musicians. my own ticket.” songs. She released her CD You’re the As much as Styles has gained from Moving towards her dream and One in September 2005, and is current- and enjoyed this portion of her career, rebirth is what Styles is relentlessly on ly working on her next CD release an evolving inner voice began to her course of action to achieve. The For information, call scheduled for fall 2016. speak to her, with a message that con- Linda Styles Band currently consists of 303-292-6446 Styles was honored in 2003 by the tinued to become louder. It was time Skip Lynch on drums, Ken Nieves on Colorado Black Women for Political for Styles to become her own musical guitar, Michael White on bass guitar, DUS WEEKLY Action at the 24th Annual Tribute to independent entity. Paul Taylor on keyboards, and Styles ADVERTISERS Black Women Luncheon, receiving the Styles’ recent journey of transfor- and Shelley McMillion on vocals. GUIDE Cultural Arts award in recognition of mation had a defining moment during Their debut public performance will her outstanding service achievements the summer of 2015 when she attend- be at Jazz at Jack’s March on 24.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 11 Minority Scholars in Medicine Event Highlights Historic Medical Achievements Exhibit Highlights Achievements of Black Medical Pioneers The Greater Denver Chapter of the medical residents to Denver. This is a National Association of Health collaborative effort of Denver Health, Services Executives (NAHSE) held its University of Colorado Hospital, 3rd Annual Second Look for Minority University of Colorado School of Scholars in Medicine event at the Blair Medicine, CU Office of Inclusion and Caldwell African American Library on Outreach, Children’s Hospital Feb. 4. An exhibit titled “Black Health Colorado, and Denver Chapter of LEGENDS,” recognizing the historic NAHSE. achievements and contributions of Founded in 2012, the Denver Black medical pioneers in the develop- Chapter, NAHSE is one of 28 ment and growth of America’s health Rosalyn Carpenter, Deidre Johnson, Executive Director, Center for African American Health, Chapters across the country. NAHSE care system was displayed. Patrick Green, and Dr. Andrea Boudreaux, Catholic Health Initiatives Executive Fellow has become the premier professional The exhibit was sponsored by Photo by Vern Howard association for Black executives in the Denver Chapter members Patricia Webb, former national NAHSE healthcare field and was established President, Executive Vice President and bridges a and Second Look for nationally in 1968 for the purpose of and CHRO, Catholic Health Initiatives notable collabora- Minority Scholars promoting advancement and develop- and Rosalyn Carpenter, Founding tion with local was highly successful ment of these leaders as well as elevat- Denver Chapter President, Chief healthcare organiza- resulting in appli- ing the quality of healthcare services Diversity Officer, Catholic Health tions, universities, cants returning to rendered to minority and undeserved Initiatives. and businesses to Aurora and Denver communities. Patrick Green, FACHE, Denver bring minority to gain a stronger Editor’s note: For information about Chapter President said, “NAHSE is an physicians to the sense of the commu- becoming a Denver Chapter NAHSE mem- organization that has been instrumen- Denver area.” nity and its diversity. ber (individual or business) email Chip tal in developing some of our most In 2015, match The 3rd Annual Neilson, J.D., Denver Chapter Membership influential Black healthcare results for the Second Look for Chair at [email protected]. For executives. Our commitment is to con- Denver Health Minority Scholars in more information about Black Health LEG- NAHSE keynote speaker, Mark Murray tinue this legacy here in Denver. Our Residency in Medicine event is ENDS email Dr. Andre Lee at Emergency MD, Interventional Neurologist, Centura Minority Scholars in Medicine event Health and Denver NAHSE President designed to help Leway333@aol.com or visit Blackhealth- supports the good work being done Medicine (DHREM) Patrick Green recruit more diverse legends.com. ENJOY A 2-FOR-1 BUFFET All-you-can-eat crab! WHOLE MAINE LOBSTER  ENJOY A 2-FOR-1 BUFFET! Please present this coupon with your Club Monarch card to the buffet cashier. You bet it’s fun. *MEuS16031* P.O. Box 9 | 444 Main Street | Black Hawk, CO 80422 | 303.582.1000

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 12 After establishing two successful are tightened, while swelling and bags businesses, Angel met and fell in love under the eyes are reduced when used Health and with an American from Denver. Nine together with a collagen facelift mask. years ago, she sold her two businesses To support the achievements obtained Wellness Is and moved to join her husband in the through using the systems, a wide Mile Hi City Denver. Once here, range of products are available to use Angel went through the U.S certificate at home. Looking Good verification process and received her Next is Angel’s Parafango system aesthetician licence in Colorado and which begins with exfoliating the and Feeling began introducing to the Denver area whole body to start the detoxification the innovative computerised VIP Body process by applying an AHA Amino Healthy Systems she used in the United Serum for cellulite and Crème Amino By Melovy Melvin Kingdom for 12 years. Firm for weight loss followed by lay- “It’s not just about looking good – ers of Parafango mineral-rich sea mud “Angels may not come when you call it’s about health and wellness,” Nixon containing healing ingredients before them, but they’ll always be there when explains about EuroSlim Centre, her wrapping the body in a warm Infrared you need them.” clinic that specializes in modern slim- blanket. This treatment works on the -Author Unknown ming/weight loss and anti-aging tech- lymphatic and helps drain the lymph Ultrasonic Facial niques that focus on overall health. and fats from the body naturally and She says, “The LectroGym system allows weight loss two to seven on best diet and to incorporate into works for both men and women with pounds in just one session. individual eating habits and lifestyles. their desire to reduce body size and Many people seeking ways to reduce She recently added to her program, lose weight. Through the use of small cellulite and to eliminate the unwanted Ionic foot detox – a toxin removal for electronic pads, the muscles are stimu- dimples that sometimes decorate the whole body cleanse. lated through a unique movement that body on the thighs and butt can experi- Her newest treatment, the creates a contraction and stimulation ence a breakthrough with Angel’s Universal Contour Wrap Spa, is a much like a crunch. In addition, a EuroSlim Cellutronic cellulite removal body wrap that Angel has dubbed as a squeezing and wringing out effect is equipment. It uses a combination of “no-more-liposuction.” After a visit produced that enables the rapid elimi- long infrared with deep electronic tissue for free consultation, clients will learn nation of fluids and soluble substances stimulation to start a natural process of what treatments are best to achieve in the treated area. This muscular releasing trapped body fluids in the fat their desired results. workout also stimulates the metabolic cells and the connective tissues of the She explains that a combination process and immediately starts to affected areas to breakdown cellulite fat with Cavi-Lipo treatment for natural burn carbohydrates and fat. A 30 cells. Angel says, “A block of treatments sculpting, face a body, works to dis- minute session is like exercising for is recommended to achieve lasting solve cellulite and reduce body cir- four hours.” results.” cumference with skin tightening effect, In addition to losing weight on var- ious body areas, this equipment can Parafango System also help to reduce back pain and aches. Health and wellness goes skin deep. Angel’s Bio-Skin Resurfacing hen you meet Angel Nixon, Technology is an advance version of youW quickly realize her beauty and microdermabrasion in which an humour transcends three continents. infrared light heals the surface skin immediately. “By the time the process She was born in Ghana, West Africa, is completed, all the redness is gone where she went to school and worked and you are left with none of the irri- in the fields. After graduation from tation that sometimes is a side effect of college she worked as a secretary for a microdermabrasion,” she says. “In couple of years. Later, she became a other words, you won’t have a glow- ing sunburn appearance when you policewoman, serving for a number of leave. When used all over the face and years before deciding that travelling neck, you come away with an even was next on the list so she travelled color tone without the patchiness that throughout Africa. can occur with spot treatments.” She Like many people, it took Angel added, “It stimulates the skin’s natural EuroSlim Centre, weight loss and without surgery. Angel guarantees the sometime to find her true passion. In regeneration process and provides day spa offers a number of services to loss of at least six inches in just two her early 30s, she decided to become overall rejuvenation. I want people to accommodate clients’ busy lifestyles. hours. “I want to help others discover an aesthetician so she could help look and feel good,” she says. “We Clients can experience healing and a ‘new you’ so they can be confident women who had been using danger- don’t want to just cover up the marks. relaxation from aromatherapy mas- and put their best foot forward. And ous chemicals on their face and body We want to remove the marks, min- sage sessions that Angel says she pro- most important, it’s not just about to beautify themselves. Realizing that imise pore size, firm and tighten the vides personally. She says using her looking good, it’s also about getting dream, Angel migrated to England skin so clients feel comfortable with- Infrared Sauna before the massage is healthy.” where she worked as a secretary to out makeup.” extremely healthy. Editor’s note: For a free consultation, more put herself through an aesthetic col- EuroSlim’s Bio-Skin Resurfacing These and other services and prod- information on the affordable treatments, or lege. After graduation, she worked in process includes the stimulation of the ucts are available to help with weight a free consultation with session of spas until she was able to pursue the facial muscles, which work to reduce loss and overall health. The most LectroGym, visit www.euroslimcentre.com dream of owning her own business. deep wrinkles, crow’s feet and frown effective product is the Weight Loss or call Angel at 303-997-6601. EuroSlim She opened her first beauty clinic in lines and gets rid of active acne and Drops where clients can lose a pound Centre and spa is located at 155 Cook St. East London which led to opening the marks it leaves behind. In addi- a day when followed with a healthy Ste. #100, Cherry Creek, Denver CO another clinic in Central London. tion, sagging jaws and double chins eating program. Angel says, “I coach 80206. Free parking available.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 13 ers escaped into the Blue Mountains, Blacks combined and became the and killed British slave catchers that “Seminole,” a Creek word that means The Battles We Won: perused her. She started leading slave “Runaway.” They established, “Negro revolts, recruiting Africans, and estab- Fort.” From there, they staged raids, lished several maroon colonies in the sacking and burning plantations. Blue Mountains. The legend of Queen Blacks started fleeing, not north, but Successful Warfare in Nanny of the Maroons struck fear in south the Florida border. Africans the heart of the British with her tales were leaving in such droves it was of witchcraft and shape shifting into weakening the economic infrastruc- Black History! birds. The likely explanation of her ture of the South. powers is a thorough knowledge of General Andrew Jackson was sent By Theo E.J. Wilson herbs retained from her Ashanti back- in to solve the ‘problem.’ Negro Fort ground, and astral projection, the sup- was destroyed in 1816, but the conflict posed ability to project consciousness was just beginning. Spain sold the Imperialism. Let’s examine some of outside of the body, even to spy on Florida territory, and the United States these victories that shaped the face of lack his- the enemy. The Maroons brokered the wanted the Seminoles gone. When B the modern world, even though they first slave peace treaty with the British then Chief Osceola refused to leave, tory can be pretty were obscured from most White his- in 1738, forcing the empire to grant the war was inevitable. Chief Osceola depressing. Loss, torical texts. them their freedom. joined forces with the greatest Black after loss, after Let’s start with Queen Nzingha of The Maroon colonies of Jamaica hero this country has never known: a Angola, 1583 to 1663, who soundly loss. Colonialism, exist as self-governing communi- man intentionally erased from the his- defeated the Portuguese, stop- ties to this day. tory books for fear his example may slavery, lynching, ping their expansion of the slave Honorable mention in inspire a spirit of rebellion. His name bombing, and victim-hood seems to trade into southern-central African military history includes was John Horse. John Horse was a Africa. After her brother proved be the narrative of our people, even the nation of Ethiopia, never to large Black man of African and to be a weak leader in the for those well versed in the subject. be conquered by Italy, or any Spanish heritage. An unstoppable face of the slave traders, European power. Hannibal warrior and expert negotiator, he This is just bad for morale. It seems she reportedly poi- of Carthage, who crushed spoke English, Creek, and Spanish. we are a people helpless to effectively soned him and the Roman army on ele- Together, he and Chief Osceola ascended the defend ourselves against violent phant back, is also bright mounted the Second Seminole War. throne. She spot. Of course, Haiti’s The Second Seminole War raged oppression. fought them Toussaint Louverture, from December of 1835 to August What if I told you nothing could be for the the Zulu of South 1842. So taxing was this war, that it is further from the truth? What if I told remainder Africa, and queen Yaa estimated that it took two thirds of you the Black man and woman are the of her life, Asantewaa of the available military resources to put most feared fighting machines on this buying Ashanti were all down the rebellion, employing the Earth? That our capacity for warfare is guns from famously formidable army, navy, and marines. It cost more so bottomless, so devastating, that the multiple against the war than $30 Million, which was more stability of the Western world hinges European machines of the West. than the U.S. GDP at that time, and on forgetting how formidable we are interests and suc- But, perhaps the greatest secret killed over 1,500 American Soldiers. in armed combat. They’ve known this cessfully arming the Africans. in Black history is the war that truly At the end, Chief Osceola was cap- since Nubian queen Amanishaketo The effect of her ended American tured and executed, but John Horse sent Emperor Augustus packing lick- thwarting the slavery, and it wasn’t the Civil escaped. He negotiated the first ing his wounds after her archers shot Portuguese may never be War. That conflict was the most public emancipation for rebellious American his army dead. They’ve known since fully calculable. We do not know what of the wars over slavery. The Gullah slaves, and they settled in the African fighters dominated the Roman havoc they would have wreaked, or Wars or “Seminole Wars” were hidden Oklahoma territory in 1838. Then in gladiator arena. how far they would have expanded from history, or reported as “Indian 1848, America went back on its agree- Consider this: Due to the transat- slavery into central and southern Wars.” In fact, General Thomas Jessup ment, and John Horse and his band of lantic slave trade, a great number of Africa. She stopped them, not with reported, “Throughout my operations, I over 100 Black Seminoles escaped to healthy, strong people were taken singing or clapping or praying, but found the Negroes the most active and the Mexican border. He became a from the terrain, and yet the Black with sound military strategy, diploma- determined warriors, and during the general in the Mexican army, and was race holds the vast majority of the cy, and determination. conferences with the Indian chief, I known as “Juan Caballo.” They got African continent, a very large and Then, there is the case of Palmares, ascertained that they exercised an their own land in Mexico on July 12, valuable piece of real estate. What’s a city of runaway slaves formed in the almost controlling influence over them. 1850. He was never captured, never the reason? mountains of Brazil from roughly This, you may be assured is a Negro executed. The Seminole still have six Sure, some environment factors 1605-1695. Aided by Native Brazilians, and not an Indian war.” territories in Florida, and the Gullah thwarted European expansion, but runaway Africans built and effectively These ‘wars’ were actually slave Sea Islands are still in the hands of other tropical places with similar envi- defended a colony where ex-enslaved revolts so massive, so comprehensive free African people. ronments were still conquered. Africans could live free for almost a in scale, that it forced Whites into mili- These are the stories we need to be Despite what ‘history’ says many century. Only when the Portuguese tary conflict over the dangerous insti- telling our children. Liberation is more armed conflicts against the Europeans joined forces with the Dutch and sur- tution of slavery. In fact, had the than singing, praying, and clapping fell decidedly in favor of the Africans rounded the city of Palmares, and rebellion of Denmark Vesey not been hands. Our people have never been on both sides of the Atlantic. This after suffering heavy losses, did they foiled by cowardly Negroes, the entire docile; that’s a myth. A trail of bodies resilient spirit deflected Europe’s finally destroy the city; but not the cul- southern region of the country might lay in the wake of Black fighters who attempt to decimate the population in ture. To this day, the descendants of be in the hands of a free Black nation. would not put up with oppression. numbers enough to repopulate the the African and Native Brazilians live The Gullah wars were fought from the Uniquely, women play a major role land with themselves. This is no small on the land they fought for, and the Sea Islands of South Carolina down in the entire history of African libera- feat considering what was done to the Palmares culture is alive and well. into the Florida territory which was tion and empire. It’s up to us to keep Native American, the Australian Now, to the Caribbean. Queen owned by Spain. At the Florida bor- their names and legacies alive, their Aborigines, the Polynesians, the Nanny of the Ashanti tribe was cap- der, the Spanish trained and armed legends made into books and movies. Tanzanians, and virtually every other tured with her four brothers and them to defend the border against May their sacrifice, cunning, and Brown race that crossed path with the enslaved in St. Thomas Perish, Jamaica America. The Creek Indians and the courage inspire our actions today. war machine of European in the early 1700’s. She and her broth- Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 14 working with veterans, LHC provides Lincoln a Fly Fishing therapy program for patients from Craig Hospital. Using the Lincoln Hills property, Hills, located on South Boulder Creek in Black Hawk as a backdrop, LHC incorporates subject-matter experts to guide participants through hands-on learning experiences dedicated to out- From Necessity to door education and environmental conservation. Participants explore and learn about everything from water Opportunity conservation, wildlife, botany, wet- land ecology, gold panning, dancing, The history of Lincoln Hills began fly-fishing, horseback riding, and the in 1922 when the Lincoln Hills rich, cultural history of Lincoln Hills. Development Company (LHDC) was In addition to the youth and mili- formed by Denverites E.C. Regnier tary veteran programming, Lincoln and Roger Ewalt, African-Americans Winks Panorama, which would Technology, Engineering, Arts and Hills Cares carries on the tradition of who sought to build a resort, in the become the first full service resort in Mathematics) education and healthy the Nizhoni Summer Equestrian Rocky Mountains of Colorado, for the growing area. Completed in 1928, lifestyle options. Program, providing youth and teen middle class African- Americans. At Winks Lodge consisted of three-stories The mission of LHC is to create girls with life-enhancing confidence the time of its founding, Lincoln Hills and with six bedrooms. unforgettable Colorado experiences through equestrian training and the was the only vacation resort west of As it was one of only a small hand- for youth by creating a connection to TeamWorks Youth Work Program, a the Mississippi River owned by and ful of resort hotels that catered to cultural history, science, technology, summer intensive work and education catering to African-Americans. Only African-Americans, Winks Lodge art and environmental conservation. program for teens. two other resorts in the United States, drew many of America’s most noted The program imparts knowledge, In 2015, more than 1200 kids and Idlewild in MI and Oak Bluffs on African-American creative luminaries encourages thinking and empowers adults participated in various activities Martha’s Vineyard, MA, also catered including Count Basie, Duke youth who would otherwise not have and to this date more than 600 mili- to African-Americans at that time, Ellington, Lena Horne and Billy the opportunity, due to economic, tary veterans and their families have however Lincoln Hills is the only one Eckstine who would visit Winks social or family circumstances. participated in fishing activities that to have been planned from inception Lodge before and after their perform- LHC also shares a world-class fly- help in the recovery process. and developed by an African- ances in the Five Points jazz venues fishing experience with military serv- Lincoln Hills is one of Colorado’s American owned company. within Denver. Extending beyond ice personnel and their families hidden treasures that need to be uncovered and shared by all.  Growth of Historic Lincoln Hills Area music, Winks lodge hosted readings, through the Anglers of Honor pro- similar to the literary salons of the gram, which aims to show thanks and Editor’s note: For more information, call The historical Lincoln Hills resort LHC Managing Director J.R. Lapierre at area extended more than 100 acres in Harlem Renaissance, which featured appreciation for their service, and aid such national treasures as Langston in the recovery and rehabilitation of 720-504-9754 or visit total and more than 600 lots were sold www.LincolnHillsCares.org. in the 1920s and 1930s. Most lots were Hughes, Zora Neale Thurston and our heroic veterans. In addition to small, only 25 feet by 100 feet and sold Countee Cullen. for $50 to $100. Typically, they had The Lincoln Hills resort and Winks cabins erected on them or were used Lodge community continued to enjoy as campsites. Owners were dispersed a strong existence and role in the lives throughout the United States but its of many African-American families core ownership group, by far, was throughout the Great Depression, found within the African-American post-World War II and up until the community of Denver. The Lincoln mid-1960s. Hills resort area saw several distinc- Fast forward to today. tive periods of growth and use. The Lincoln Hills Cares (LHC) is a first began in 1925 when Obrey coalition of public charities that enrich Wendall “Winks” Hamlet and his wife local communities through environ- Naomi Hamlet began their construc- mental awareness, a connection to cul- tion of Winks Lodge, also known as tural history, STEAM (Science,

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 15 HATS OFF TO...

ADL Honors Education ber since 2007, is the current Board Advocates at Annual Civil Chair. Through the Foundation, the Rights Awards Reception Ginsburgs have sponsored 42 inner- The Anti-Defamation League city children to help them obtain a Mountain States Region honored three post-secondary education. advocates of educational opportunity The ADL Mountain States Region and access at the 34th Annual Civil has presented civil rights awards to 57 Rights Awards Reception on Feb. 24 at Coloradans since 1982. the Denver Art Museum. The hon- The Anti-Defamation League, found- orees were Carlotta Walls LaNier and ed in 1913, is the world’s leading organi- Leslie and Noel Ginsburg. zation fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry. The Honorable Wiley Y. Daniel receives the Lifetime Achievement Inclusiveness@Work Award Denver Public Library Honors African American Leaders honors and advanced placement lowing winners were announced at The Denver Public Library honored courses and serves as team captain for the Gala: three African American community the girls’ basketball team and is a rep- •Individual Category - Deborah Ward leaders at the Juanita Gray resentative for the Climate Team and White, Executive Director, Colorado Community Service Awards and the Cherry Creek Schools District Affinity MultiEthnic Cultural Consortium Blacks in Colorado Hall of Fame Leadership Team. Her civic work •Nonprofit/Government Agency induction ceremony. The event was focuses on the Aurora Teen Court, Category - Aurora Mental Health Center held at the Ford-Warren Branch Link Crew, No Place for Hate (Anti- •Law Firm/Legal Department Library in North Denver and kicked Defamation League) and the Urban Category - Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP off the library’s celebration of Black Youth Ministries. •Corporate Category - Newmont Mining History Month. Blacks in Colorado Hall of Corporation A former library staff member and Fame Inductee •The Lifetime Achievement Carlotta Walls LaNier is one of the community advocate, Juanita Gray The Honorable Karen M. Ashby joined Inclusiveness@Work Award was then Little Rock Nine. At age 14, Carlotta helped start the Blacks in Colorado the Colorado State Public Defender’s presented to the Honorable Wiley Y. was the youngest of nine African- Hall of Fame in 1973. The Juanita Gray Office in 1983 and had the distinction Daniel, Senior United States District American students to integrate award honors African American men, of being named the first African Judge for the U.S. District Court for Central High School in Little Rock, women and youth who make out- American woman appointed to a state the District of Colorado. He reminded Arkansas in 1957. She was the first standing contributions to the Denver court position in the judiciary in 1998 the audience that as a community we black female to graduate from Central Metro area and who exemplify the when then Governor Roy Romer can accomplish the goal of an inclu- High School. In 1999, Carlotta and the ideals and spirit represented by Gray’s appointed her to the Denver Juvenile sive society by staying humble and other members of the Little Rock Nine commitment to the community. The Court. She was later named the pre- working together. were awarded the Congressional Gold following were honored at the event: siding judge of the court until In addition to a silent auction and Medal by President Bill Clinton. She is Juanita Gray Award Winners Governor John Hickenlooper appoint- charitable donations, CLI raised funds a Denver resident and president of the L. Elaine Neal - With a passion for ed her to the Colorado Court of to support a stipend for a law student Little Rock Nine Foundation, a schol- helping juvenile offenders, L. Elaine Appeals in 2013 and again served as to attend the Legal Inclusiveness and arship organization dedicated to Neal spent 28 years with the Denver the first African American woman to Diversity Summit in May. ensuring equal access to education for Juvenile Court as a probation officer be appointed to this appellate court. Urban League Guild Presents African-American students. She is the before retiring and entering a second She was named Judge of the Year by author of, “A Mighty Long Way: My phase of her career. She now research- the Colorado Court Appointed Special Scholarships To Awardees The Urban League Guild of Journey to Justice at Little Rock es placement options for defendants Advocates in 2006 and the Excellence Metropolitan Denver presented book Central High School.” facing sentencing and consulting on in Practice Award, Juvenile Officer in scholarships to students of Africana juvenile matters. She is a member of 2012 by the Colorado Department of the Colorado Chapter of the National Human Services. She received her J.D. Studies at Metropolitan State Association of Blacks in Criminal degree from the University Of Denver University of Denver on February 17 Justice and in 2012, organized the Sturm College Of Law. She is married at MSUD’s 33rd Annual Black World Empty Plate Project which supports to attorney Mitch Baker and they have Conference at the Tivoli Student food bank networks across the coun- two children, Zoe and David. Union on the Auraria Campus. try. She spends a great deal of time The Urban League Guild presents Successful Mardi Gras Themed volunteering for civic and professional the annual awards to students selected organizations such as the Denver Gala Celebrates D&I Leaders by the faculty of the MSUD Africana On Feb. 6, The Center for Legal Police Officers Foundation Board, Studies Department for their commit- Inclusiveness (CLI) hosted their sec- Steps to Success and the District Five ment to Africana studies and partici- ond annual Mardi Gras themed gala Denver Police Department Citizens pation in the department. The Ball for All@Magical Mardi Gras, Advisory Board. She was honored in This is the fourth year of awarding at the Sherman Street Event Center in 2014 as a Walk of Fame Inductee by these scholarships. The Urban League Denver. Members of the corporate, the National Association of Blacks in Guild of Metropolitan Denver raises legal, government, and nonprofit com- Criminal Justice. Neal is a native of the funds to make these scholarships munities came together to celebrate Leslie and Noel Ginsburg have dedi- Roanoke, Virginia and has spent the available through community events the CLI mission of advancing diversity cated their energy and financial past 44 years in Denver with her hus- and fund-raisers. and inclusiveness in the workplace. resources to ensure that at-risk youth band, Bill. The Inclusiveness@Work Awards, The Urban League Guild of have equal access to educational Jireh Pulley (Youth Award) -A senior at presented by CLI, aims to recognize Metropolitan Denver is an auxiliary to opportunities. Noel is a founding Grandview High School in Cherry those organizations and individuals the Urban League of Metropolitan member and past President of the Creek, Pulley applies drive and pas- who are advancing diversity and cre- Denver and support programs of the Colorado I Have A Dream sion for both schoolwork and commu- ating cultures of inclusion in our Urban League through volunteer Foundation, and Leslie, a board mem- nity organizations. She is enrolled in workplaces and community. The fol- activities and community relations. Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 16 NEWSVIEWS

“A Defining Moment” Now first commencement speech as Available In Soft Cover Commander and Chief has been Denver-based photographer and added in the soft cover edition. author Patricia Duncan announced the Duncan received inspiration to release of her book, publish her first book from the sage “A Defining advice from her sister, the late Moment: Barack Honorable Vikki Buckley, Colorado’s Obama - The first African American and twice elect- Historic Journey to ed Secretary of State who said “If you 1600 Pennsylvania have a dream and a goal, you must go Ave,” an introspec- after it; stay focused and accept the tive look at Barack good with the bad. You may get Obama’s historic knocked back two steps before you path from a rising can take one step forward, but don’t star in the quit! If you work hard and keep God Democratic Party to first in your life, you will persevere.” the nation’s first Forever Stamp Honors Richard African-American Allen, Founder of the African president, in soft cover. Methodist Episcopal Church The U.S. Postal Service kicked off “A Defining the national observance of Black Moment” is a 184- History Month with page pictorial coffee table book, which the dedication of a contains more than 300 never-before- Forever stamp hon- seen photographs and speeches, oring preacher, chronicling President Obama’s story- activist and civic book rise from a junior U.S. Senator leader Richard Allen from Illinois to the first African- for his inspirational American president U.S. history. His life and profound ascendency began with a strategic visit contribution to to Colorado to campaign for U.S. Rep. American history. Ed Perlmutter in 2006 and caught the The stamp is the 39th in the Postal support of Colorado Democratic Party Service’s Black Heritage stamp series, delegates and rainmakers two fateful which began in 1978 with a stamp years before capturing the nomination honoring abolitionist Harriet Tubman. for president in 2008. It coincides with the 200th anniversary Duncan’s softcover book features of Allen’s founding of the African an array official coverage of the his- Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church, toric 2008 National Democratic considered one of the most important Convention in Denver. The book com- institutions in African American life, prises speeches delivered by promi- and Allen’s election and consecration nent Democratic Party luminaries STORIES LIVED as A.M.E.’s first bishop. including the late U.S. Sen. Edward Customers may purchase the AND TOLD BY Kennedy, Congressman John Lewis, Richard Allen Forever stamp at Hillary Clinton, and former President Suzi Q. Smith usps.com/stamps, at the Postal Store Bill Clinton, First Lady Michelle usps.com/shop, by calling 800- Jenee Elise Obama, Martin Luther King III, STAMP24 (800-782-6724) and at Post Bianca Mikahn among others. A new chapter, In the Offices nationwide. A variety of Beginning – President Barack Obama Toluwanimi Obiwole stamps and collectibles also is avail- which contains pictures and his first able at ebay.com/stamps. Ralonda Simmons State of the Union Address and the

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 17 where he is a defender of civil and International Civil human rights and has taken on the n Ou contradictions of the criminal justice Joi r Te Rights Walk of system through his fierce public advo- am cacy. We’re hiring for: Fame Announces The International Civil Rights Walk of Fame was created in 2004 to give Administrators, Teachers, Secretarial/ 2016 Inductees recognition to the foot soldiers of jus- Clerical, Paraeducators, Nutrition tice who sacrificed and struggled to Services, Maintenance/Custodial Footprints of Civil Rights make equality a reality for all. This Leaders Placed in Historic Site Operations, Transportation extraordinary display has become one During Annual Trumpet of the most visited tourist attractions Awards Celebration in the city of Atlanta and has enriched 3HRULD6W$XURUD&2‡ the heritage of the civil rights move- KWWSKUDXURUDNRUJZRUNIRUDSVMRESRVWLQJV ootprints of six new esteemed ment. The shoes used to create the civilF rights icons were added to the footprints will also be on display dur- International Civil Rights ing the unveiling program. Walk of Fame during the Plans for the future include 2016 Trumpet Awards fes- relocating the historic Walk ManualManual HighHigh SchoolSchool tivities on January 22, 2016 of Fame. at Ebenezer Baptist Church The International Civil Rights Walk of Fame, now StudentsStudents GrGradesades 9 toto 12 in Atlanta, Georgia, 30312. The ceremonial host for this in its eleventh year, is spon- sored by the Trumpet DDiverseiverse anandd CulturCulturallyally RRespoResponsiveesponsinsivve FaFFacultyaculty year’s occasion was Danny Awards Foundation, Inc., SStrongtrong HHealthealth anandd WWellnessellness SSupportsupports fforor Bakewell, Trumpet Awards and was created and DeDevelopingveloping ththee WWholehole Child Foundation Board Member. designed by Xernona Clayton, GrGround-Breakingound-Breaking MMeded SchSchoolool aatt ManManualual The 2016 honorees included Dr. Amelia Boynton Robinson (posthumously), a ManManual.dpsk12.orgual.dpsk12.org 7720-423-630020-423-6300 civil rights activist from the Selma movement who was awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal in 1990; Dr. Jamal-Harrison Bryant, a philanthropist, author, motivational speak- er, founder and pastor of Child abuse prevention the Empowerment Temple founder and executive is everybody’s call. producer of the legendary Trumpet Awards. Clayton states, “This Walk of Fame tells a phenomenal story about the legacy of this nation. It is a permanent testimony to those who have dedicated themselves to progress of our people and to this nation.” Many of the shoes used in the AME Church in Baltimore; display remain on exhibi- Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III, tion within the Visitors the Friendship-West Baptist Center of The Martin Church Pastor who is also a Luther King, Jr. National committed community Historic Site, National activist who formed Park Service, which is alliances with local leaders located at 450 Auburn You Dial the Number. We’ll Make the Call. and Dallas city officials to Avenue (Atlanta, GA). fight violence; Rev. Dr. Jim The roll of honorees is Holley, the historic Little growing every year with Rock Baptist Church Pastor whose the addition of other footprints into 1-844-CO-4-KIDS mission was the “ministry of libera- 1-844-264-5437 the International Civil Rights Walk of tion;” Gordon L Joyner, Esq., who has Fame. “We will continue to build been recognized for his leadership by upon this commemorative memorial two US Presidents, five Georgia to the civil rights struggle that depicts Governors, and two City of Atlanta the tireless efforts and passionate con- co4kids.org #co4kids Mayors; and Rev. Dr. Raphael Gamaliel cern of these determined individuals,” Warnock, pastor of America’s Freedom said Clayton.  Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 18 Nate Easley, Ph.D., is executive Community College of director of the Denver Scholarship Foundation, a 501(c) (3) public charity Denver Honor Three whose mission is to inspire and with MLK Community empower Denver Public School (DPS) students to achieve their post-second- ary education goals with the tools, Leadership Awards knowledge and financial resources Nate Easley, Tracey Lovett and Ed essential for success. Dwight among 2016 Honorees Dr. Easley has served as president

Many people confuse community and secretary of the Denver Public involvement with community leader- Schools (DPS) Board of Education, and ship. While community involvement has also worked as vice president for is admirable, community leadership National and International Programs takes involvement to another level. It for the Council for Opportunity in requires vision, decision-making, and Education in Washington, DC. the ability to inspire others. It is what He also serves on Colorado moves communities forward. Governor John Hickenlooper’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. exem- Education Leadership Council, is a plified community leadership and current member of CCD’s Advisory made it the cornerstone of his civil Council, as well as the National rights ministry. In the spirit of Dr. College Access Network Board, King, the Community College of Colorado Latinos for Education Denver (CCD) honored Denver com- Reform, and DPS’s Roots Charter munity leaders Tracey Lovett, Dr. School Board. He is also an immediate Nate Easley, and sculptor Ed Dwight past member of the National Advisory at its annual CCD MLK Scholars cere- Council for Texas Guaranteed, Inc., mony on January 19 at St. Cajetan’s the third largest student loan guaran- Cathedral on the Auraria campus. tee organization in the United States. During the ceremony, CCD also With more than 25 years of experi- presented the 2016 Wellington Webb ence working at the state, national and MLK Scholars, which recognizes CCD international levels, Dr. Easley has students who are also civic leaders in extensive experience helping disad- their own right. This two-part scholar- vantaged students realize their dream ship incentivizes academic success by of a college education and securing distributing half of the scholarship in grant funding to sustain student pro- the fall, and the other half upon com- grams, particularly first-generation, pletion of a successful spring semester. low-income and students of color. Additionally, the second annual Dr. Nationally renowned living legend Nita Mosby Henry Scholarship was and sculptor Ed Dwight has been a awarded, which focuses on students catalyst for change his entire life. in health or education that are also A man whose resume reads: former inspiring service to the community. Air Force test pilot, America’s first As a community leader in Denver, African American astronaut candidate, Tracey Lovett has helped many IBM computer systems engineer, avia- Daniels Fund Scholars since 2000. She tion consultant, restaurateur and real also oversees the Boundless estate developer; he can best be Scholarship program for non-tradi- described as a true renaissance man. tional students, which has provided For more than 30 years, however, scholarship support to many CCD stu- Dwight has focused his direction on fine dents over the past several years. art sculptures, large-scale memorials Lovett is also an active member with and public art projects. He has worked Shorter Community A.M.E Church, on more than 100 public art commis- serving on the board of the Women’s sions, including the inaugural sculpture Missionary Society, University Prep, scene of President Barack Obama, and and also conducts educational work- Denver’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. shops all over the city. monument in City Park. Lovett holds a bachelor’s degree in Each of this year’s honorees has led technical journalism and a master’s the Denver community forward and degree in student affairs in higher edu- inspired others with their vision, pas- cation from Colorado State University. sion and sustained commitment.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 19 REEL ACTION - WWW.BLACKFLIX.COM

Ground Rules other, and it’s so overloaded with Collins. He adds just the right amount of to work with the plot. The final straw Must See......  good actors that a lot of them don’t humor to the already quirky character. was having an army kids fight aliens. It’s Worth A Look..... See At Your Own Risk. even get to speak. Even Channing There are a few flaws with the film, Fine… OK… why do they make the 6- Don’t Bother......  Tatum barely gets a speaking role unnecessary soft focus, overly ambitious year olds fight? The weapons were as although he does have a decent tap with the color correction and a few bad big as they were. I understand they Editor’s note: Samantha Ofole-Prince is an dance routine as part of a musical the cutaway shots but nothing terribly dis- wanted to just let them die, but it award-winning writer and contributor to studio is recording. tracting. Aside for these few minor makes no sense. I can get behind many national publications and is There are few chuckles here and problems it was a success. Yes, I said the aliens invading, but really? The ele- Blackflix.com’s Senior Critic-at-Large. Tia there, but no gut wrenching humor. zombie drama is a win. It is now among mentary school kids aren’t going to be Terlage and Jon Rutledge are journalism The funniest scene is when Mannix my favorite zombie films. separated out, and only let those kids students at Metropolitan State University arranges a meeting with a rabbi, priest Director (Burr Steers) shows talent 13 and older fight? Don’t get me start- of Denver. Laurence Washington is the and reverend to discuss how God at bringing two very unlikely genres ed on the super powered alien love creator of BlackFlix.com. Like should be portrayed on the religious together in a way that strengthens interest subplot. Blackflix.com On Facebook, Follow picture the studio has green lit. them both. By only taking liberties I began to think that the coma- Blackflix.com On Twitter Beyond that, Hail, Caesar! is a disap- with the story to accommodate the inducing dialog was the fourth wave. pointing film. zombie elements, he gives us a new Then it hit me this is the first wave, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMqeoW3XRa0 and fresh way to look at the classics. because these moves always come in You won’t have to eat any brains to threes. Then I was truly scared enjoy this smart film. because studios have been breaking https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foGraEVNI0s the last movie in a series into two parts. Dear God, they are invading. The 5th Wave is targeted for the younger crowd. It’s a shame that instead of giving them a better story, they pandered to what they think kids will understand. Besides the aliens really had no idea what they were get- ting into. They planned to “control” teenagers, what were they thinking? Hail, Caesar! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmxLybfGNC4 1/2 Pride and Prejudice and By Samantha Ofole-Prince Zombies  Mildly entertaining, this latest By Jon Rutledge offering from the Oscar-winning film- making brothers Ethan and Joel Once in a while, a film takes a risk by weaving two very different story The 5th Wave Coen offers a few chuckles.  The star-studded film explores a elements together. Pride and Prejudice By Jon Rutledge day in the life of a Hollywood “fixer” and Zombies brings the drama of the Eddie Mannix (played by Josh Brolin). 19th Century aristocratic life to a dark The young adult book-to-movie The Head of Physical Production at and undead setting of a zombie horror genre has yet another entry. With so Capitol Pictures, Mannix spends his film. This is a risk that surprisingly many elements to borrow from in the days trying to protect the studio from pays off because I don’t know if I will garner, The 5th Wave’s filmmakers scandals and lawsuits. From keeping ever be able to watch Pride & Prejudice choose to pick some of the worst ele- at bay two gossip columnists (twins without missing the backdrop of the ments of all of them. The story’s core played by Tilda Swinton) seeking dirt Zombie apocalypse. is a sound idea and some of the per- on his A-list acting talent, setting up a The film carefully follows the spirit formances are good, but they are Kung Fu Panda 3 1/2 fake marriage for his single-mother of the Jane Austin classic and adds the drowning in poor dialog and absurd By Khaleel Herbert starlet (Scarlett Johansson), to finding zombie elements without making plot points. a speaking role for his best Western them seem campy or out of place. The Aliens come to Earth with an over- In the third film of the series, Po star Hobie Doyle (Alden Ehrenreich), sets and costumes and even the zom- ly complex plan for taking over. They (voice of Jack Black), the adorably Mannix always has his hands full. His bie effects are all top-notch. There attack in five different waves, all plump panda, must become a Kung most important task, however, is over- were no corners cut in this production focusing on wiping out the human Fu master. Master Shifu (voice of seeing the production of the historical and it shows in the quality. race. Cassie (Chloë Grace Moretz), a Dustin Hoffman) announces his last epic, Hail, Caesar!, which is headlined Lily James (Downton Abby) carries normal high school student turned day of teaching and leaves it in Po’s by the studio’s prized actor, the charis- herself with elegance, grace and bad-ass resilient warrior, gets separated from hands…which doesn’t go so well. matic Baird Whitlock (George fighting skills as Elizabeth Bennet. She is her brother Sam (Zackary Arthur), Later, after hearing that a newcom- Clooney), but when Whitlock is kid- such a strong character that her pres- during the invasion, and crosses the er is claiming his dumpling-eating napped by a Communist group called ence is hard to compete with. Sam Riley country to get back to him. record at his dad’s noodle shop, Po The Future, Mannix is forced to pay a (Maleficent) is pared with James as Mr. Cassie is a strong independent rushes in to meet a stranger who looks hefty ransom to get him back. Darcy. Together their screen presence female character, and yet inexperi- just like him. The panda says his name Set in the ‘50s, the Golden Age of and chemistry are as at home fighting enced without making her weak. is Li (voice of Bryan Cranston) and is the Hollywood film industry, the film zombies as they are dancing at the ball. Moretz delivers an outstanding per- looking for his son. Po says he is look- which mark Clooney’s fourth collabo- The romance between them, like other formance. Unfortunately she had to ing for his biological dad and after a rates with the Coens aptly pays hom- versions of this story, is the focus of the work twice as hard with the incredibly brief moment, they realize they found age to that era. The cinematography film. Fighting the differences in class, sappy and poor dialog, but she did each other. and the acting are brilliant but that’s standing and the undead, they find each her best with what she had. Meanwhile, a wildebeest named where it all ends. With a lot going on other in the end. In science fiction films you have to Kai (voice of J. K. Simmons), returns to in the film, it feels littered with ideas Matt Smith (Doctor Who) does a suspend a certain amount of disbelief. the real world after drifting in the that don’t quite connect with each spectacular job as the odd Parson However, you lose me the more I have Spirit Realm for 500 years. He wants

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 20 REEL ACTION - WWW.BLACKFLIX.COM to take the inner power, known as chi, Hosted by Terrence J and camera and behind the scenes in from every Kung Fu warrior and mas- ‘Entertainment Tonight’ correspon- entertainment. ter, including Po, to become the great- dent Nischelle Turner, the top acting “AAFCA reminds us that we don’t est fighter in all of China. honors went to Will Smith and need outside validation and whether Po must learn to unlock his chi Teyonah Parris for their roles we get any other nominations or any powers in order to defeat Kai. Li in Concussion and Chi-Raq. Dope, Carol, other awards, there is an appetite for claims that he knows how to summon The Peanuts Movie, A Ballerina’s Tale, black film and an audience that wants chi (since pandas are said to be mas- The Danish Girl and The Martian, as to see it,” says filmmaker and AAFCA ters at it) and says he’ll teach Po if he well as the television shows Black-ish, board member Deborah Riley Draper. follows him to his secret village, How to Get Away with Murder and Oprah Winfrey, Anthony where the rest of the pandas roam. A Survivor’s Remorse were also honored. Anderson, Ryan Coogler, Tyrese jealous Mr. Ping (voice of James 2016 Oscars producer Reginald Gibson, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Sheryl Lee Hong) follows. Hudlin, director John Singleton and Ralph, Courtney B. Vance, Aldis The Furious Five (voices of Angelina Codeblack Entertainment CEO Jeff Hodge, Carl Weathers, Rick Jolie, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Clanagan received special honors for Famuyiwa and Louis Gossett Jr. are Liu and David Cross) are back along their contribution to American cinema. just some of the many celebrities who with new faces in the panda village. “It feels great to be honored by my have attended this worthwhile annual Panda 3 had its weak spots. There family,” John Singleton told award ceremony. was not as much action as in the pre- Blackflix.com on the red carpet. “We The organization honors excellence vious films, and the theme of finding need to have our own systems and in cinema by creating awareness for one’s identity echoes the previous our own institutions honor us. There films with universal appeal to black films; it’s repetitive. Teyonah Parris and Sheryl Lee Ralph is too much of a colonist mentality of communities. It emphasizes films And would it have been too much let me be included.” about the black experience and those emony, the film Selma, which was to ask for Po to have a love interest The organization of film media pro- produced written, directed and star- this time? snubbed of an Oscar nomination, fessionals set a goal in 2014 to expand ring performers of African descent. Panda 3 is good, but it could’ve earned the top honor receiving the its industry presence during awards “We are fully committed to sup- been better. It’s a film that you can accolade for best picture. The film’s season with a collection of distinctive porting stories of color. It’s been a wait to watch on DVD or FX. star, David Oyelowo, was awarded events. With awards season now com- challenge but we are preserving and However, if you are taking the the best actor accolade for his portray- ing to a close, by all accounts will continue to preserve. We are whole family out to the movies, Kung al of Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin AAFCA has succeeded on all levels in Fu Panda 3 Luther King. hopeful that eventually the industry is the best choice. There are honoring and presenting some of the  many funny scenes throughout the This year, the surprise summer box most prominent names in front of the will change,” Robertson says. film that will have children and adults office hit Straight Outta Compton, a film busting guts. which follows the meteoric rise of the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10r9ozshGVE group N.W.A, captured the majority of votes cast by members of the associ- ation. With the film’s exclusion for an Oscar nomination, and the lack of The AAFCAs: black actors among the chosen few in the top four Oscar categories, many Honoring Our Own are applauding AAFCA for continu- By Samantha Ofole-Prince/Photos by ously recognizing accomplishments Royalty Images from people of color. “We felt it was time to come f you don’t like someone’s story, together in an organized way to bring write“I your own,” said literary giant and about change, as there were concerns educator Chinua Achebe and that’s in the community of black entertain- ment media about coverage and exactly what Shawn Edwards and Gil access that we were given collective- Robertson did when they started the ly,” explains co-founder Robertson on African American Film Critics the organization’s concept. “With Association (AAFCA) in 2003. AACFA awards, we are doing what Frustrated with the film industry’s we can by recognizing those who oth- failure to promote positive images and erwise might not be recognized.” themed stories from the African The 7th annual AAFCA’s Diaspora, veteran journalists Edwards held Wednesday, Feb. 10, at the and Robertson started their own Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, organization. handed out six honors and awards in An organization of black film critics 12 categories. representing multiple mediums, Straight Outta Compton, the AAFCA now holds an annual star-stud- Universal Pictures film, earned multi- ded award ceremony every February ple awards for Best Picture, Best during Black History month. Their mis- Ensemble and Best Supporting Actor sion is simply to celebrate the best in for Jason Mitchell, who portrayed the directing, screenwriting, acting and pro- group’s founder, Eazy E. Awards ducing, and also honor African were also given to Creed in the catego- American contribution to cinema. ry of Best Director for Ryan Coogler; The awards event is now in its Michael B. Jordan for Breakout 7th year and at last year’s awards cer- Performance and Tessa Thompson for Best Supporting Actress.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 21 for Helsinki, frozen and snow-covered Baltic Sea, as merely a long, exhausting trip. It is A Swollen Finland, to visit white flakes swirled in the streetlights treacherous from the start. two longtime and the temperature dropped to While escaping their country of ori- gin, people risk their lives traveling Iraqi friends minus 25 degrees Celsius, a long, long River of through contested parts of their coun- who fled way from Baghdad. try or over roads controlled by militias Baghdad last Our friends Mohammad and his or warlords known to capture and kill Refugees summer and teenage son, Omar, come from a small people because of their ethnicity or farming village where they grow somehow com- religious sects. Risks, we can be sure, By David Smith-Ferri Okra. Last autumn, like hundreds of pleted a per- they wouldn’t undertake except out of thousands of others, they were part of desperation. All of this merely to enter Last month, as U.S. border patrol ilous seven-week journey over land the swollen river of refugees whose Turkey. In Istanbul, where refugees and sea to reach this northern seaport. agents began rounding up Central headwaters sprang from Syria, Iraq, must try to find a trustworthy smug- American women and children denied Negotiating our way from the airport and Afghanistan, where endless war gler, make a deal with one of his asylum, a small group of international in Helsinki to Laajasalo, a small island has devastated society and local vio- agents, and pay a hefty fee – held in a lence has left so many people at grave peace activists from Voices for and suburb where we were to stay sort of escrow until a specific, agreed- risk. The journey to Europe is not Creative Nonviolence boarded a plane with a Finnish journalist, we crossed a upon part of the trip is completed – Turkish police patrol the streets and coffee houses looking for migrants. Iraqis are, particularly, at risk. If cap- tured in Turkey and identified, they LAND ROVER are imprisoned and eventually turned over to Iraqi authorities. And in the charged, sectarian atmosphere in Iraq, DENVER refugees shudder to think what might follow. From Turkey, Mohammad and his son planned to travel by bus to a port town – “Well, it’s not really a town, just a place at the beach” – and launch a rubber dinghy onto the Aegean Sea at night. Their hope was to reach Farmakonisi, a tiny, largely uninhabit- ed Greek island about six miles from the Turkish coast. Leaving Istanbul is itself like cross- ing open seas. It involved a nine-hour bus trip. The first trick is getting on the bus without being captured by police, and then again eluding police while traveling out of the city. No small feat. This isn’t a tourist bus or a standard bus route where you gather with other passengers trying to blend in at a regular, authorized location. It’s an empty mini-bus into which 20 refugees cram themselves and their luggage all at once. Not an easy thing to hide. “The bus,” Mohammad told us, “will wait two minutes. No more.” Of course, people are anxious and on edge. He described three failed attempts to successfully leave Istanbul. In one attempt, the smuggler’s agent assigned a meeting place, then changed it four times over the next couple of hours, until the group, which included women and young children, crouched in the dark on the edge of a wood, looking down a dirt path to a street corner where, at a 2016 Land Rover 2016 Range Rover specified time, the bus was supposed & to appear. DISCOVERY EVOQUE According to the smuggler’s agent’s directions, a phone call would alert the refugees that the bus was 1-800-NEW-LAND-ROVER approaching the appointed pickup LANDLAND ROVERROVER 6160 South Broadway • Littleton,Littleton, CCOO 80121 spot. In the meantime, they should organize themselves into four sub- LandRoverDenver.comLandRoverDenver.com groups of twenty people, the first sub- DENVER LikeLike us on FFacebook:acebook: Facebook.com/LandRoverDenverFacebook.com/LandRoverDenver group dashing out when the first bus appears. By this point, however, and

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 22 despite the best efforts of Mohammad strong. They inspired me. If they can from the bus stop to our apartment. and other group leaders, such disci- face death, I can too.” Snow danced lazily in the air. Without pline was beyond them. Sleep- Finally, on the fourth attempt, they preamble, speaking thoughts that car- deprived, succeeded. (“This time, we left during ried him from Baghdad to Finland, frightened, the day, and the police were right Mohammad said, and hungry, there. So we believe bribes “I came here because of my chil- too many peo- were paid”). A night time dren. If I stay in Iraq, they will kill me. ple ran out, and sea crossing was set, and Mohammad, And what will happen to them in such the mini-bus fled a mechanical engineer by training, a society?” without boarding anyone, agreed to pilot. The trip was harrow- In the silence that followed, his forcing the smuggler’s ing, with the boat over- words rose into the air and joined the agent to reschedule the loaded and passengers dance. attempt for another day and frantic, Turkish police on Editor’s note: David Smith-Ferri, a leaving the refugees with noth- the waters, and navigation a literal shot PeaceVoice contributor, is a member of ing to show for their effort but an in the dark. “I never drove a boat Voices for Creative Nonviolence and the unfulfilled promise. before… my son and I can’t swim. I author of Where Days Are Stones, On another attempt, the refugees believed we would die, but I thought, if Afghanistan and Gaza Poems, 2012-2013. successfully boarded only to be spot- I am going to face death, then I will face ted by police as they left the city. Two it carefully…thank God we made it.” of the four buses were apprehended. On Thursday, January 21, at least In the third bus, Mohammad and 43 refugees, including 17 children, Omar watched as their driver swerved died when their boats capsized while recklessly around the police and drove trying to cross the Aegean Sea. One of breakneck down the road. “He has to the boats was headed to Farmakonisi. do this,” Mohammad explained. “For It is 225 miles in a straight line him, it is life or death because it is a across the sea from Farmakonisi to 20-year prison sentence if you are Athens. Before reaching the Greek caught.” In the end, this attempt also capital, Mohammad and Omar had to failed, when the group was rounded travel to other small Greek Aegean up by police after being delivered to islands, waiting on one for almost a the beach. Mohammad describes what week, with little food. “Every day Available for all Holiday Events, happened: more refugees landed…the good thing Special Occasions and... is that I was able to beg some food for “After a long wait, some tourists came Omar, a bit of bread, a few dates… he 303.355.4979 down the side of the hill and saw women was losing strength.” P.O. Box 39163 H Denver CO 80239 and children lying in the woods, and we Travel time by air from Athens to were afraid they will tell the police. We Helsinki is about six hours, including could see police boats on the water, and a Munich layover. For Mohammad hear their sirens. Eventually, a Turkish and Omar and those they met travel- man came and questioned us. We told him ing overland, it took weeks, with the the truth; he said ‘ok, don’t worry,’ and he borders opening and closing like jaws brought water and some biscuits. Another before and behind them. Turkish man came and said everyone As a young man in Iraq, should gather in one place. This was sus- Mohammad had few chances to use picious. Then suddenly the police opened his professional training. Following on fire, we hear the sound of bullets. Some the heels of a costly eight-year war young people run toward the sea and start with Iran – a conflict in which the U.S. swimming; some run away into the participated in a number of ways, woods. The police say they will keep us including providing weapons to both until everyone is here. The young people sides – Iraq’s economy collapsed are captured, and we are taken back to under the weight of international eco- Istanbul and held in jail for questioning. nomic sanctions. In 1993, Mohammad They hold us for six days, but they accept began working for a French NGO that the Iraqis in our group are Syrians, working to provide medical relief to and they let us go.” Baghdad’s malnourished children, a After this, Mohammad and his son job that brought him a good deal of spent two weeks in Istanbul, resting, unwanted attention from Iraq’s intelli- thinking, planning, gathering their gence services. It was work as a jour- strength for another attempt. “Almost nalist for foreign media that brought every day in the coffee shops, we hear the death threats that forced stories about people drowning [trying Mohammad and his family to flee to cross the Aegean Sea], but we try to their Baghdad home and go into hid- ignore this because we don’t want our ing. Continued threats, the murder of motivation to weaken. This is why I his brother by a Shia militia, and the waited two weeks to make the cross- kidnapping and murder of his father ing, some people only wait a couple of forced him and Omar to flee their days, but I am very careful, question- country. Omar’s mother and his six ing the smuggler, asking his agent younger siblings remain in Iraq, wait- questions. Where is your crossing? ing for the chance to reunite with Where do you land? ... I saw that there Mohammad and Omar in Finland. were more women and children than On an evening toward the end of men refugees, and this made me our visit, Mohammad and I walked

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 23 Gooch’s Sick Transmission Specialist Transmission?

We have Myron Gooch, Manager 760 Dayton Street Aurora, CO 80010 your 303-363-9783

Making transmissions well medicine! for 22 years.

Sick COMMUNITY NOTES Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame Juneteenth Music Festival Will Induct 10 Women March 16 Scholarship Pageant Underway Transmission? The Colorado Women’s Hall of The Denver Miss Juneteenth Fame will induct 10 women on Scholarship Pageant is seeking all Wednesday, March 16 at the Denver queens, court members and other We have Marriott City Center. Contemporary Alumni participants for the pageant. inductees include Anna Jo Haynes, An information meeting will be held civil rights, child and family advocate, Saturday, March 19 at Manual Arts your bringing to Denver the national Head High School at 1 p.m. to discuss ways Start program (Denver); Arlene Vigil the 2016 pageant experience. For more Kramer, educator and trailblazer for information, email medicine! bilingual education (Monument); [email protected] . Lydia Peña SL, educator, author and community leader, championing edu- NCNW Living Portraits Women’s cation for girls in Ghana and History Event Planned Gooch’s The National Council of Negro Afghanistan, (Denver). Women-Denver Section presents the Transmission There will be other contemporary 24th Annual 2016 Living Portraits of inductees and historic inductees as well. Specialist African-American Women on March For more information or tickets, 26 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Denver visit cogreatwomen.org or call 303- Central Library. Six multi-generational 271-3599. women will be honor for their accom- BaoBao Festival Is Coming plishments and service to the Denver To Colorado In March community. For more information, Myron Gooch, Manager The BaoBao Festival will bring email [email protected] or 760 Dayton Street together professional artists and per- call 303-949-1015. Aurora, CO 80010 formers from Ghana, West Africa for workshops and performances in Dearfield Dream-Part IV Annual 303-363-9783 Boulder focusing on traditional and con- Dearfield Conference Planned The 4th annual Dearfield temporary music, drumming, dancing MakingMaking transmissions transmissions well Conference and Symposium will be and storytelling March 9 to 12. for 22 years. held March 16 at UNC. The confer- well since 1983. An aesthetic tribute to the late F. ence will feature morning presenta- Nii Yartey, a renowned Ghanaian cho- tions. Afternoon sessions will include reographer and former Director of the presenters and public engagement dis- Ghana Dance Ensemble will be held. cussions. Sessions begin at 9 a.m. on For a full schedule of events, times Saturday, March 26, and continue into and fees, visit baobaofoundation.org. mid-afternoon. For more information, Up From Slavery Spring call Dr. George Junne at 970-351-2418 Concert Planned For March 5 or email [email protected]. The Bennie L. Williams Spiritual Voices will present a Spring Concert: Calling Artists And Exhibitors Up From Slavery with guest artist For The Annual People’s Fair Capitol Hill United Sheryl McCallum on Saturday, March Neighborhoods, Inc. (CHUN) is cur- 5, at 7 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, rently accepting applications for artists 6500 East Girard Ave., in Denver. and vendors for the two-day Capitol Tickets can be purchased online Hill People’s Fair, June 4 and 5. through Eventbrite, by emailing Applications are available at [email protected], or by www.peoplesfair.com. Applications calling the BLW Spiritual hotline at The Urban Spectrum — April 2006 for the five exhibitor categories are 720-460-8219. 1 due on April 1. Fine Art applications Langley Family Charitable are due on April 8. For more informa- Trust Accepting Applications tion, call 303-830-1651. The annual Langley Family Charitable Trust (LFCT) is accepting AARP Foundation Tax-Aide applications to award scholarships to Provides Free Tax Assistance AARP Foundation is again provid- Colorado high school seniors. The pro- ing free tax assistance and preparation gram is designed to help increase the for taxpayers with low to moderate number of African Americans and/or income through the AARP at risk students enroll in colleges and Foundation Tax-Aide program. AARP universities. Student must be a high Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s school senior, have at least a 3.0 grade largest free tax assistance and prepara- point average, be involved with the tion service. Applicants do not need to community, and have a career goal to be a member of AARP or a retiree to make a difference in the quality of life use this service. for self and others in the community. For more information or to locate Deadline to receive completed appli- an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site, cations is April 15. For more informa- call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227- tion or to receive an application, call 7669). 303-694-3126.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 24 braved the evening con- I must say this is an experience I will Colorado cold tinued with never forget. I may not get one like BLACKDANCE RISING, to see the stellar per- this. More tools were added to my emerging formances bag.” artists youth from compa- According to Cleo Parker Robinson International Association performance at nies from all Dance Executive Director Malik the historic over the Robinson organizers chose MSU of Blacks in Dance Paramount world, includ- Denver to highlight their partnership Theater. ing Australia, in the dance major. “We wanted to Fosters Dreams Antonio as the audi- shine a spotlight on our partnership “Huggy Bear” ence learned with MSU Denver and raise aware- By Charles Emmons Fargas, a men- that the strug- ness about the excellent education you tor for the City gle for civil can receive at the University,” said of Las Vegas, and human Robinson. When Misty Copeland made his- West Las rights severely The IDP (Individual Designed tory late last June, becoming the first Vegas Arts impacted abo- Program) dance major encompasses Center Performance Ensemble, was riginal people, having not been consti- more than performance. It has four African American principal ballerina spotted in the crowd. It may have tutionally recognized until 1967. The areas of concentration – social transfor- with American Ballet Theatre, young been cold outside but the dance inside sense of community was evident as mation/world dance and culture; dance Black women across the country could was hot. the audience cheered and gave ova- pedagogy; dance administration; and CPRD founder and artistic director tions as companies took to the stage focus on a new dream. But where will performance and choreography. With Cleo Parker Robinson started the presenting high caliber, breathtaking, this approach the next Misty Copeland the next Misty Copeland come from? evening with an onstage embrace energetic performances. could come from MSU Denver, or the With this question on many minds, in from Fargas and an introduction of This IABD conference was all about person making the decision to elevate a January, more than 500 members of the IABD leadership. She commented getting better, preserving and foster- principal dancer could emerge from the that the youth performance was the ing dance to greater levels. The experi- program. the International Association of Blacks greatest example of where dance is ence was great for budding dancers As part of the IABD conference 87 in Dance (IABD) gathered in Denver going. “Learn about the legacy and and dance advocates to see what it Black ballerinas were invited to the to help ensure a future for future create the legacy,” said Robinson. takes to put on a production of this first annual audition for major compa- The program then began with 14 Misty Copelands. size. Reggie McNair Jr., one of the five nies. This was the capstone of the con- different dance troupes from all over BLACKDANCE RISING, the 28th MSU Denver students that volun- ference. No decisions have been the country performing all styles of annual IABD conference and festival teered commented on Facebook, “I got revealed yet, but given the caliber of classical dance ballet to modern. A was hosted by Cleo Parker Robinson to meet founders of the association, performance, and commitment exhib- common theme was the seamless infu- Dance (CPRD), now in its 45th year. artistic directors, world renowned ited by this group, it is sure that some sion of African and hip hop move-  Choreographers, dancers and support- dancers, teachers and choreographers. will move forward in their dreams. ments into the choreography. ers of the art from all over the world Performances were inspiring, ener- gave workshops, classes, and perform- getic and dramatic as young dancers ances, and collaborated on preserving moved across the stage to symphonic, and taking it to the next level. jazz, R&B and hip hop and spoken Metropolitan State University of word selections. The house was Denver provided some of the classes, barely half full, but the applause, and students and faculty from their cheers and ovations given to the per- dance major program did much of the formers resounded like it was packed. behind the scenes work. Dance is Friday evening the established integral to so many cultures and dif- members and artists performance was ferent cultures and has tremendous at the DCPA’s Ellie Caulkins Opera influence on what is next. House. Denver’s First Lady, Mary The weekend in January was high- Louise Lee commenced the evening lighted by evening performances of with an a cappella version of “Believe students and members of IABD. in Yourself” from the Wiz. The Thursday night conference attendees

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 25 Celebrating the Life of Celesta Marie Fouther

Celesta Marie Fouther was born on July 12, 1930. She was the eldest of three chil- dren born to Louis Davis, Sr. and Celesta Robinson Davis. Her brothers, Vincent and Louis, Jr., have both preceded her in death. She was raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and lived her earliest years through the U.S. ‘Great Depression.’ In Pittsburgh her fami- ly lived in the neighborhood named the “Hill District.” Pittsburgh colum- nist Bob Bauder wrote, “It is impossible to know Pittsburgh’s black history without telling the story of the Hill District. Wylie Avenue in the Hill District was known as the crossroads of the world for jazz and entertainment during the first half of the twentieth century. Some called it, ‘little +RVWHGE+RVWHGE\ Harlem.’” The influence of that very segregated part of Pittsburgh never lost its impact on Celesta. It may have even contributed to her decision to (&ROID( &ROID[ $$YHH$X $XURUDD&2 &2  3KRQH3KRQH_ZZZDI_ ZZZZZDIULNNPPDOODOOFRP move to the bustling metropolis of Chicago, Illinois early in her adult life. 6DWX6DWXUGDGD\$S$SULO_$LO   _ $0 3 30 It was in Chicago that this former Baptist, (she grew up in Ebenezer 6LJQXSWR6LJQXS WR YRROXQWHHOXQWHHU RRU SSUHUHHJLJLVWWHHU WRDWWHQGDWZZZKHDOWKIDLWR DWWHQG DW ZZZZZKHDOWKIDLURRUJ Baptist Church in Pittsburgh) became a stalwart and faithful member of

6SRQVRUV6SRQVRUV the Congregational Church of Park Manor, United Church of Christ. She was deeply impressed by the Reverend Dr. William Faulkner’s way of leading a meaningful worship service that lasted for only one hour. &RPPXQLW&RPPXQLWLW\6XSSRUWHU6XSXSSRUWUWHU It was at the Congregational Church of Park Manor, UCC that she met the love of her life―a former serviceman and student of Talladega College in Talladega, Alabama. That man was James Ellis Fouther, Sr., a tenor soloist in the Chancel Choir. They courted and were married at Park Manor by the Reverend Kenneth Smith (the very same minister who presided over the wedding of her son and daughter-on-law some 30 years later). Celesta enjoyed an active membership there of well over 30 years, serving in many administrative capacities and as a member of the July Circle. Celesta made life-long friendships, as did James and Valerie, through their involvement with Tots and Teens, a Chicago-based social group for moms and their youth. When not working or engaged with her family, Celesta was also an avid bridge player and belonged to a club that played twice monthly. The union of James, Sr. and Celesta was blessed by the arrival of two children, James, Jr. (in 1964) and Valerie Celesta (in 1967). When Celesta completed her working career in administration for the City of Chicago Building Department she retired to Miami, Florida where James, Jr. and Angelle lived with their oldest daughter, Danielle, and where her youngest granddaughter was, Daryn, was subsequently born. Valerie also joined the family in Miami as well. All were members of Church of the Open Door, Congregational, United Church of Christ, where James served as Senior Pastor & Teacher. Her years in the sunshine and warm breezes of Miami were followed by several years living in Sarasota, Florida and being an active member of the First Congregational Church, UCC. There she enjoyed the company of many other retirees and kept an active social calendar. In the summer of 2010, Celesta made her final cross country move to once again join her family in Denver Colorado. Although her health was in decline, being with her granddaughters always gave her great joy even as she approached the final days of her earthly life. Her whole family will l treasure our time together for Christmas, 2015 when Valerie was able to join the whole family in Denver to celebrate. Celesta’s winning smile and determined personality had a positive impact in every setting in which she lived and with everyone whom she interacted. She will remain in our hearts always as the epitome of the parent who sacrifices mightily for the health, strength, and well-being of her children. She will be missed but never, ever, ever forgotten. Celesta is survived by her son, James (Angelle), daughter, Valerie, granddaugh- ters Danielle and Daryn, as well as many cousins, friends, and spiritual family members.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 26 first half of the 1980s, when it led a Peace PAC back the Sanders cam- Although it’s true that he has focused widespread campaign to halt the paign, an online poll of Peace Action’s his campaign on economic inequality Bernie Sanders: Reagan administration’s dramatic members revealed support for within the United States, he has not nuclear weapons buildup and the endorsement by 85 percent of the hesitated to assail the “military-indus- The 2016 Peace dangerous slide toward nuclear war. respondents. trial complex,” as well as the “regime With much in common, SANE and the This enthusiasm for Sanders among change” policies of past U.S. adminis- Candidate Freeze merged in 1987 to form Peace peace activists reflects other aspects of trations. Also, the attacks upon him By Lawrence S. Wittner Action. Like its predecessors, Peace his record, as well. The U.S. Senator by leftwing purists are often divorced Action devoted its efforts to building a from Vermont has opposed NATO from reality. Driven by a sectarian n February 10, more peaceful world. expansion into Eastern Europe, mindset and a fierce hatred of the Although the three peace organiza- favored normalization of relations Democratic Party, these firebrands dis- 2016,O Peace Action — tions rarely endorsed Presidential candi- with Iran, and decried the Israeli tort or ignore much of his peace-ori- the largest peace organi- dates, they did so on occasion. attacks on Gaza in 2014 as “dispropor- ented record. Furthermore, they over- zation in the United States Appalled by the Vietnam War, SANE tionate” and “completely unaccept- look the unpleasant alternatives to a — announced its endorsement of backed the peace campaigns of Eugene able.” When it comes to the war in Sanders presidency: a hawkish Bernie Sanders for the Democratic McCarthy in 1968 and George Syria, he has opposed the establish- Hillary Clinton or a rabidly militaristic McGovern in 1972. In 1984, challenging ment of a “no-fly zone” and the use of Republican in the White House. nomination for President. the Reagan administration’s bellicose American ground troops. In a July A more serious question is whether Peace Action is the descendant of approach to international affairs, SANE 2015 interview, Sanders explained American voters, in 2016, will respond two other mass U.S. peace organiza- and the Freeze endorsed Walter that, although he is not a pacifist, he positively to a peace candidate. tions: the National Committee for a Mondale. Then, in 1992, fed up with believes that “war is the very, very, Although the answer remains unclear, Sane Nuclear Policy (SANE) and the twelve years of Republican hawkish- very last option.” there are some indications that they Nuclear Weapons Freeze Campaign ness, the newly combined organization Sanders’ depiction as a peace candi- will. Opinion polls reveal that most (the Freeze). SANE was founded in threw its support behind Bill Clinton. date has inspired some grumbling. Americans do not support increasing 1957 with the goal of ending nuclear In its statement endorsing Bernie During the Presidential race, he has the U.S. military budget, are wary of weapons testing. Soon, though, it Sanders, Peace Action praised his shied away from foreign and military sending U.S. ground troops into broadened its agenda to include opposition to both Iraq wars, support policy issues, and this has disappoint- another Mideast war, and back recent opposing the Vietnam War and other of legislation to reduce spending on ed some peace activists. Hard-line agreements that ease tensions with overseas military intervention, reduc- nuclear weapons, strong backing of leftists, already irked by his benign “enemy” nations like Iran and Cuba. ing military spending, and backing the Iran agreement, votes to curb mili- brand of socialism, have been particu- Therefore, campaigning as a peace nuclear disarmament treaties, as well tary spending, and championing of larly critical. A writer in the Socialist candidate might end up producing as supporting economic conversion diplomacy over war. According to Worker denounced Sanders’ “backing benefits for Bernie Sanders at the bal- from military to civilian production. Kevin Martin, the executive director of of U.S. imperialism,” while another, in lot box. Among SANE’s early supporters were the peace organization, Sanders “best Jacobin, charged that he was “willfully Editor’s note: Dr. Lawrence Wittner, syn- Eleanor Roosevelt, Martin Luther represents the values that Peace blind to the hand-in-glove relationship dicated by PeaceVoice, is Professor of King, Jr., Walter Reuther, and Dr. Action and its 200,000 supporters have between capitalism and militarism.” History emeritus at SUNY/Albany. His Benjamin Spock. The Freeze, initiated espoused.” And, in fact, before Peace Even so, when it comes to main- latest book is a satirical novel about univer- by Randy Forsberg, appeared in the Action’s board of directors voted over- stream electoral politics, Sanders is a sity corporatization and rebellion, What’s late 1970s and reached a peak in the whelmingly to have the organization’s logical choice for peace activists. Going On at UAardvark?

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 27 the nation’s survival, but no matter. tive dust and all sorts of other toxins Meanwhile, we waste more than We’re engaged in endless war with in the wake of its disastrous adven- half our annual national budget devel- Confronting whoever the latest enemy happens to tures, including unexploded land oping weapons, preparing for and be and this war is endlessly funded, mines and cluster bombs, and, for waging useless wars and, in the Our Toxic no questions asked. Mostly we’re good measure, severe desertification process, creating not just future ene- engaged in war preparation, of course across Iraq. mies but environmental hell for mil- Legacy (and the containment of the conse- Its unregulated pollution has lions of people. By Robert C. Koehler quences of past wars — at least the spread cancer, birth defects, neurologi- This is “the way things are” but I ones that can’t be ignored). As usual, cal diseases and other horrific illnesses don’t think it’s the way most people aybe if we the Pentagon and other war-engaged among friend and foe alike. U.S. want them to be. How on earth do we institutions will consume well over nuclear testing has devastated both find the “political will” to change — declaredM “war” on half the nation’s discretionary spend- the American Southwest and the indeed, reverse — this situation? poison water, ing, including a $59 billion slush fund Marshall Islands of the South Pacific, The PR ploy of militarism is that we’d find a way to that permits the Pentagon to break and its 1,300 abandoned uranium it’s how we as a nation think and act invest money in its through Congress’ legislated budget mines continue to cause health prob- in a big way. We uproot terrorists. We “defeat.” caps. lems for the Navajo people of Arizona topple dictators. We bring democracy David Rosner But the children (and adults) of and New Mexico. to Iraq. As a metaphor, “war” is our and Gerald Flint remain vulnerable to contaminat- Toxic burn pits, depleted uranium, way of coping with drugs and cancer Markowitz make this point: “The price ed water and no one knows where the Agent Orange, canisters of mustard and crime. We confront evil and, in tag for replacing the lead pipes that money will come from to replace its gas dumped in the ocean — this is the the process, become the good guys. contaminated its drinking water, decrepit water pipes, which started “greatness” America’s military apolo- We budget more than half a trillion thanks to the corrosive toxins found in leaching lead into the water supply gists tend not to talk about. Combine dollars a year to maintain this illusion the Flint River, is now estimated at up after officials used chlorine to deal this with the legacy of the private of ourselves. to $1.5 billion. No one knows where with the biological contaminants that industrial sector and its abandoned What if we actually invested a seri- that money will come from or when it invaded the city’s water after an aus- rust-belt cities and what we have is a ous portion of our budget in a cause will arrive. In the meantime, the cost terity decision was made to draw nation in panic, gasping for breath. that mattered? I don’t really believe to the children of Flint has been and water from the heavily polluted Flint “In truth,” Rosner and Markowitz we should pretend to go to war will be incalculable.” River. write, “the United States has scores of against toxic water. War is a limited — I sit with these words: “No one And Flint just happens to be the ‘Flints’ awaiting their moments. Think in my view, stupid — concept. We knows where the money will come place drawing media attention right of them as ticking toxic time bombs — lose every war we fight. War always from.” now. Millions of people across the just an austerity scheme or some offi- creates unintended consequences of In the president’s latest budget pro- country and around the world remain cial’s poor decision away from a pub- monstrous proportions, which dwarf posal, $7.5 billion is earmarked to vulnerable to our legacy of industrial lic health disaster. Given this, it’s its strategic aims. But thinking big and “fight ISIS,” an absurd non-threat to — and military — pollution. remarkable, even in the wake of Flint, standing up to a profound threat And mostly they’re people of color, how little attention or publicity such makes sense and has political cred. suffering from what is appropriately threats receive. Not surprisingly, then, What if we decided to rescue the called environmental racism: “the fact there seems to be virtually no political children of Flint — indeed, rescue URBAN that sewage treatment plants, munici- will to ensure that future generations every child in this country — from the pal landfills and illegal dumps, of children will not suffer the same dangers of lead poison and industrial EVENTS garbage transfer stations, incinerators, fate as those in Flint.” pollution and poverty? What if we smelters and other hazardous waste Certainly part of this lack of politi- stared directly at the ticking time sites inevitably are sited in the back- cal will is racism — one more mon- bomb of climate change and environ- yard of the poor,” as David J. strous manifestation of it. Another mental collapse and regrouped as a Krajicek wrote recently. part is no doubt the ongoing denial of nation around a determination not to For information, call Tick, tick, tick. This is the threat we our toxic legacy, creating a situation in let this happen? 303-292-6446 face: toxic soil, water and air, our lega- which polluted regions do not exist — Instead of thoughtlessly budgeting cy of two centuries of industrial igno- at least in the consciousness of politi- our own demise, what if we found the rance and recklessness, combined with cians, military bureaucrats, and corpo- political will to reprioritize the nation- DUS WEEKLY something even worse: militarism and rate elitists — until the effects are so al budget and reclaim the future?  ADVERTISERS the arrogance of empire. The U.S. mili- undeniable, as they are in Flint, that Editor’s note: Robert Koehler, syndicated GUIDE tary is the largest and worst pol- they have to be addressed in some by PeaceVoice, is an award-winning luter on Planet Earth, leaving radioac- minimal, face-saving way. Chicago journalist and editor.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 28 Lupus Colorado and AROUND TOWN - WWW.DENVERURBANSPECTRUM.COM - AROUND TOWN The Urban League Guild of Metropolitan Denver Proudly Present Secd Aa Hea  Aaee ad Edca a S   : Lupus and the African American Community

SATURDAY, MAY 21 • 10 A.M. ! NOON AURORA FOX ARTS CENTER 9900 E COLFAX AVE, AURORA, CO 80010

LUPUS: In i ible No Mo e

COME BE PART OF THE DISCUSSION Join us for this live interactive presentation featuring doctors and health professionals with a focus on lupus and the e! ects it has on people living with the disease, speci" cally in the African American Community. The symposium is open to lupus patients, caregivers, family members and medical professionals. For more information, call 303-377-2790, ext. 5

LUPUS FACTS: • 2 million Americans, including 30,000 Coloradans, have been diagnosed with lupus • 1 out of every 185 people - 90 percent of whom are women - are affected by lupus • Lupus is 2-3 times more prevalent in African-Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian-Americans • More than 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported annually across the country • There is no known cause or cure for lupus Colorado 45th Gospel Anniversary Music Celebration Academy & Photos by Lens of Free Event • Light Refreshments Hall of Ansar/Denver Fame Weekly News

Greater Denver Chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives Minority Scholars in Medicine

Photos by Vern Howard

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 29 Monday-Friday, 6-9am

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – March 2016 30