Denver Urban Spectrum December 2018 by Denver Urban Spectrum

Photo by Bernard Grant

MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER Passion Volume 32 Number 9

1. Strong and barely controllable emotion. “a man of impetuous passion” 2. The suffering and death of Jesus. “meditations on the Passion of Christ”

December 2018

PUBLISHER Rosalind J. Harris GENERAL MANAGER Lawrence A. James EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT Alfonzo Porter PUBLISHER/PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Melovy Melvin MANAGING EDITOR Laurence Washington COPY EDITOR Ruby Jones COLUMNISTS Kim Farmer FILM CRITIC BlackFlix.Com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Janet Dallas Zilingo Nwuke Ruby Jones Melovy Melvin Alfonzo Porter Jamil Shabazz ART DIRECTOR Bee Harris GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jody Gilbert - Kolor Graphix DISTRIBUTION Ed Lynch Lawrence A. James - Manager

The Denver Urban Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to spreading the news about people of color. Contents of the Denver Urban Spectrum are copyright 2018 by Bizzy Bee Enterprise. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The Denver Urban Spectrum circulates 25,000 copies throughout Colorado. The Denver Urban Spectrum welcomes all letters, but reserves the right to edit for space, libelous material, grammar, and length. All letters must include name, address, and phone number. We will withhold author’s name on request. Unsolicited articles are accepted without guarantee of publication or payment. Write to the Denver Urban Spectrum at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. For advertising, subscriptions, or other information, call 303-292-6446 or fax 303-292-6543 or visit the Web site at www.denverurbanspectrum.com.

Passion is a “strong and barely controllable emotion. It physically lifts your spirit, warms your heart, and brings butterflies to your belly. With passion you discover determination, faith, and love; and when acted upon, passion can get you to do amazing things. It fuels the fire for success and without it nothing much is achieved. When you have passion for something, you love it even when you hate it. Passion fuels our stories this month – with determination, faith, and love. Glynis Albright shares her passion for satisfying the tummies of family, friends and community and Jamil Shabazz talks about how this passion led her to become known as America’s Waffle Queen. The JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry has a passion for dance. Janet Dallas shares how these Denver praise dancers believe that ministering the love of Jesus Christ through dance is a way to bring people closer to God. The Coalition Against Global Genocide is passionate about educating, motivating and empowering individuals and communities to oppose genocide and crimes against humanity. Jamil Shabazz reflects on how that desire was expressed at a recent roundtable conference. Eighteen year old Dylan “Real Dyl” James has had a thirst for football since he was five years old. Zillingo Nwuke talks to him, and his mother, about his comeback from an injury and how it propelled his passion to persevere. These stories come at a time when many of us also reflect on the Passion of Christ. This passion, referred to as the suffering and death of Jesus, is the short and final period of His life covering His entrance visit to Jerusalem and leading to His crucifixion on Mount Calvary. So…what was His passion? It was you, and it was me. This holiday season, ponder on His passion. And as we enter a New Year, find your passion and follow your passion; because living your passion can lead to purpose. Happy holidays and have a safe and Happy New Year! Rosalind J. Harris Publisher

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Americans have to overcome is thinking of themselves as Americans. There is nothing in the history of the Black experience in America that should cause Black people to believe they belong here! Yet they do! We have never been welcomed here. It seems quite insane to me that we as a people seem to have little or no involvement in what is happening on the African continent. Our enemies certainly do. This fact makes us look pretty foolish. Forget America! Long live Africa!

Forget America! Long live Africa! Editor: I’m very concerned about the Machiavellian machinations of imperialist power on the African continent. The latest predator to join the feeding frenzy is China. I’ve noticed that all ethnic groups function in their own interest with the exception of African Americans. The Jews for Jewish interests, the French for France, the Germans for Germany, the British for Britain, the Dutch for Holland, so forth and so on. It just so happens, all these nations have exploited Africa for hundreds of years; they cut their baby teeth on stealing Black wealth. Where would those nations be today had they not been able to suckle at the breast of Mother Africa? There should not be one African American in any position in American government, who is not outraged that Black people are impoverished on such a rich mineral continent. Now we have yellow people exploiting Black people, following the example of white people, who only want to see Africa developed if it is not under the control of the world’s dispersed African people. How often does Black leadership in America meet with Black leadership in Africa to discuss policy? To discuss the future of Black people globally? Does African leadership only meet with Europeans and now the newcomer, Chinese? I believe the biggest and most serious problem African

Antonius Aurora, CO

Random Thoughts Editor: The day after Tuesday’s election, I read the Denver Post website and was surprised - but not really- that the Denver Post chose to spend time rehashing the month’s old article on Rep. Jovan Melton, who was overwhelming re-elected to his Colorado House seat. While people thought he was being silent after the initial article ran so close to the election, he actually was doing his job and personally contacting his authorizing leadership, the Democratic candidates and precinct committee person’s in House District 41. What also is amazing that there was no special recognition of the history making election of Joe Neguse, the state’s first Black congressman elected to the 2nd Congressional District. Nationally, my heart is sad for the losses of Beto O’Rourke for congress in Texas, Stacey Abrams for governor in Georgia (although there may be more to come in that race) and Andrew Gillum for governor in

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Florida. I asked for volunteers to go to Florida and Georgia and we sent two teams, one to Florida and one to Georgia. But back to Colorado and how times here have changed for the better. In 1992 Colorado was suffering from the passage of the anti-gay Amendment 2, and in 2018 we elected the first openly gay governor in the country. When I introduced the first legislation in 1975 to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, the newspapers referred to my bill as Webb introduces homosexual bill. It took decades and some ignorant beliefs can be changed, while others continue. My wife Wilma worked hard for the passage of 301-Mental Health “Caring 4 Denver.” We’re thrilled voters increased taxes for mental health services and another proposal to raise tax dollars for the city’s parks. Both proposals are important and will help our community. Wellington E. Webb Denver, CO

Thanks To Family, Friends, Community and Voters Editor: Thank you for standing with me and reelecting me to the Colorado House of Representatives by the largest margin of votes I have ever received. You have proven that one’s past should not determine their future, and I am extremely humbled Continued on page 26

Glynis Albright:

In The Mix With

America’s Waffle Queen By Jamil Shabazz Photos by Bernard Grant

n the West Coast there is Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles. On the East Coast there is Amy Ruth’s. In the South there was (once) Gladys Knight’s Signature Chicken and Waffles – all three establishments legendary for their preparation of a Soul Food staple. Notoriety is nice but royalty is better and Colorado is home to “America’s Waffle Queen” Albright has been whipping up culinary delights since the age of 10, and after six decades of living life to her fullest, she has no plans of slowing her stride. By her side for more than half her life has been her husband Gerald Albright, a Grammy-nominated saxophonist and a musical force in the world of Jazz/Pop music.

exist. I said let me do this word processing for maybe a couple of years, and then once you get your record deal, I can go back to school and then you support me. From that point on, we were on a constant grind because Gerald needed X amount of saxophones, to get his sound right. You know, you got to have your baritone, tenor, alto and soprano and it take funds to get those instruments. Early on with everything he needed, we just worked very, very hard to get it.” She completed her undergraduate program in biology at UCLA and now holds a doctorate in natural health and used her background in chemistry and biology to develop Just Sweet Enough Gourmet Desserts and Cookie Dots— two companies that use the nutrients from fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, infusing them in desserts. She says the desserts not only taste good, but are also beneficial in the healing process of those combating chronic illnesses and other health challenges. “I decided to do desserts because that’s when we cheat. And I was like, okay, well, I’m going to turn all the healthy foods that you normally turn up your nose at into a dessert. Basically, I said if it grows from the ground or falls from the sky, that’s what I’m going to use in your dessert to help you heal. That’s how Cookie Dots came about,” she says. There is no hustle for hard work. While in college both Glynis and Gerald hit the books hard in the daytime, before Gerald would go to school in the L.A. clubs at night. The full time hustling and bustling was bound to work up an appetite. According to Albright, the genesis of her empire began in an off campus apartment around that time. “You know what? Ever since I was a sophomore at UCLA, I created this food. I started making waffle mix and discovered the mix could also be used to make pancakes and crepes too. And since Gerald was always in a band, he

Inseparable since the day they met at Samuel Gompers Junior High School in South Central Los Angeles, Glynis and Gerald have been married for nearly 40 years. Underpinned by love, tenderness and devotion, the duo has a one of a kind love; kismet in nature. The pair shares the same initials, birthday and were both born at 8, Glynis in the A.M., Gerald in the P.M. As a young couple the Albrights weren’t immune to struggle. In the beginning Glynis capitalized on her typing expertise to land a high paying gig as a word processing specialist, and used the funds to help launch Gerald’s career. “I told Gerald you need to go on and keep working at your craft, put your name out there, get to those clubs and let them know that you

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

and the boys would drop by my apartment after every gig and ask me to fix them some of my pancakes or waffles,” she said. “So since 1977 up into 2017, it became a tradition that the musicians would come to the Albright house to have waffles or pancakes, crepes, but they mainly ask for those waffles because they said that it

didn’t taste like any waffle they had ever had before.” We all have a special recipe, a divine blend of traits and characteristics that season our everyday lives – a dash of resilience, a pinch of panache. Every good recipe requires perseverance by the pound and Albright is no exception. Diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia, she was never supposed to see her 37th birthday; she’s currently 61. A few years ago a devastating head-on collision in downtown Denver, left her right eye permanently damaged, her right wrist fractured and her left shoulder ligament was torn from the cup. As part of her recuperation, she honed and formulated her edible signature and by the end of her convalescence in 2016, Glynis’ Waffle Mix and Poultry Coating were ready for market. Glynis’ Chicken and Waffles debuted to more than 4,000 guests on the Dave Koz Mediterranean cruise in May of 2017. Four months later, her chicken and waffles were also featured during a star-studded product launch at the famed Spaghettini Grill and Jazz Club in Southern California. To pair with the product release, Glynis recorded a commercial calling on two trusted allies for help: Brandon and Selina. Glynis and Gerald’s daughter, Selina Albright, a recording artist wrote the song, “Eat Something,” for the occasion. “I wrote “Eat Something” in a few seconds. It only took me a few seconds because I know my mother, I know what she likes. So I recorded it, sent it to her and she’s like, Oh my God, it’s perfect!” Selina revealed during our conversation. Gerald and Glynis’ son, Brandon Albright, owner of Snow Desert Productions handled all the cinematography for the commercial. The final product was a tantalizing visualization. Since the Waffle Mix and Poultry Coating debut, Glynis has been touring the globe as, “America’s Waffle Queen,” as her Glynis’ Kitchen has been popping up in cities all over the US and abroad. With the hectic schedule that comes with building a brand, Glynis also takes time out for a crusade that is close to her heart. In 2018, Albright established M.A.N.E. (Making Advancements toward Nutritional Empowerment) a non-profit organization that assists women and men in rebuilding their self-esteem and physical appearance following hair loss due to serious illness, while at the same time educating those affected by health challenges on the importance of nutrition in attaining and maintaining good health.

“With M.A.N.E., we focus on five areas: hair, skin, teeth, nails, and weight management. It is designed to help people in those five areas because that’s how society grades us,” she said. Recognized for her philanthropic and business efforts, Albright is a recipient of the Mountain Region Black Economic Summit, WiLMA Award in the area of business (named in honor of former Denver First Lady Wilma J. Webb), as well as, a nominee for the “Woman of the Year” from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. It only takes a minute for a late night to slide into an early morning.

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From there, the countdown to daylight begins. Glynis Albright has done (and continues to do) some of her best work on the bridge from dark to light. For years she has whipped and whisked, laughed and loved until everyone in her kitchen is sated and happy. Just like the dawn that certifies a new day, the horizon for Glynis and Company is all bright. . Editor’s note: To order Glynis’ Waffle and Poultry Coating Mixes, go to AlbrightCuisine.Com. A new and improved site is coming soon. Stay tuned on social media for the reopening of www.JustSweetEnough.com and www. CookieDots.com.

DUS Countdown to 2019

Remembering 2018 in DUS 12 – January

Ringing in the New Year, we celebrated the first month of the year honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth, reflecting on his life and reminiscing on his legacy. Our cover story featured Black cowgirls and their journey in a male dominated field, as they rode into Denver for the MLK Jr. Rodeo of Champions. Rodeo champi-on Mikala Nealy and BPIR CEO/President and Promoter Valeria VasonCunningham, shared this salute to African American and Native American cowboys and cowgirls with DUS Managing Editor, Laurence Washington. Allan Tellis sat down with Dr. Rhonda Coleman and The Healing Garden as they shared with him its purpose and goals of creating an environment for improving the community’s health.

11 – February

This month DUS celebrated African American/ Black History Month with a cover story featuring Ron Springer who after almost 30 years in business handed the reins of Akente Express to a new generation of entrepreneurs. DUS also acknowledged the 2018 African Americans Who Make A Difference who are nominated by the community every year. These socalled “quiet movers and shakers” are truly making an impact and supporting their communities.

10 – March

In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women’s History Month in perpetuity. Denver Urban Spectrum honored and recognized women and looked at their achievements in Colorado and around the country. Our cover story, penned by DUS Editor Laurence Washington, told us how and why Gerie Grime Grimes was selected by the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame as a 2018 Inductee. Melovy Melvin paid homage to Rachel B. Noel as the community prepared for the Rachel B. Noel 2018 Distinguished Professorship.

Democrats. This month our city was filled with controversy around sexual harassment allegations of Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock and Detective Leslie Branch-Wise.

Shabazz shared the musical journey of radio personality and emcee Becky Taylor. Melovy Melvin talked about future plans for the Five Points neighborhood and the Rossonian Hotel.

8 – May

6 – July

This month contributor Alfonzo Porter looked at the challenges African-Americans faced in 1968 – family, economic growth, criminal jus justice, political leadership and education – and the aftermath of them 50 years

after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other DUS contributor Thomas Holt Russell reflected on law enforcement and the long and troubled history in the AfricanAmerican communities with a photo from 50 years ago that is imbedded in his memory from when he was young boy and still disturbs him today.

9 – April

Since 1987, the Denver Urban Spectrum has been telling and sharing stories – other people’s stories. Our cover story by DUS Managing Editor Laurence Washington profiled former 9News Anchor TaRhonda Thomas who gave her views on justice accountability and shared her journalism journey that began in Louisiana. Emmy award winning filmmaker Dante J. James provided a different perspective on the movie Black Panther and how it relates to justice in the movie and film industry and Richard B. Muhammad talked about the injustices occurring with Republican Jews and Black

7 – June

Good music feeds the soul. That is how publisher, Rosalind “Bee” Harris opened this musical month’s issue as DUS paid homage to Black Music Month. Over cover story was penned by new DUS contributor Lauren Turner who was down with father-son duo, Billy and Scottie Rich. They shared their music journeys and their undying passion for the electric bass. Beatrice Bruno shared Shelton Bouknight’s story who owns the Kasbah nightclub and Jamil

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Summertime in the Rockies is hot and this year we saw, felt and shared it through our July issue. Heartthrob and actor Timon Kyle Durrett sat down with DUS contributor Ruby Jones to share his journey to landing on Oprah’s popu popular and hot tel television show, “Queen Sugar.” DUS contributor Zilingo Nwuke shared Haynes story on how he overcame racist obstacles in the field of aviation but still passed on lessons learned to his sons, and DUS contributor Thomas Russell Holt visited Dearfield, a once vibrant all Black community, and educated us on the resilience, strength and the audacity of hope from the town’s ancestors.

5 – August

DUS Executive consultant and MSU Denver professor Alfonzo Porter looked at the climate of African men and women and the judicial sys system with our Presumed Guilty cover story. New contribu contributors Shakara Robinson and Chiquita Page 4 Vaughn shared Papa Dia’s story about his goals for coming to the U.S. from Senegal and the story behind his

formation of the African American Leadership Group in 2006. Entertainment writer Allison Kugels talked with DL Hughley who discussed his new book.

4 – September

Fall is in the air and for September, DUS focused on education with a variety of contributions. September’s cover story by Alfonzo Porter looked at the Brilliance of Black Students who are overlooked and unrecognized and, Dr. Sharon Bailey shared an open letter to the Black community and Denver Public Schools about the education of Black students. DUS contributior Ruby Jones presented the first two Colorful Stories of the series on Little Rock Nine’s Carlotta Walls and mother of gunshot victim Ollie Marie Phason.

ers who will shed light on what needs to be done to help eradicate these issues. Contributor Ruby Jones shared insight about the ongoing dilem-ma of homelessness and housing.

1 – December

In this last issue of 2018, we present stories of passion.

3 – October

This month’s cover story featured the Colorado Black Health Collaborative’ s first black and white fundraising gala with actress Jenifer Lewis who visited Denver and shared her secret struggles with sexu-al addiction and mental ill-ness. DUS contributor Thomas Russell Holt shared insight from community and organization leaders, officials and activists to encourage more people to Get Out To Vote.

At a time of wrapping your head around and remembering all that has occurred over the year, we are ready to embrace the New Year and anticipate what’s to come. As we reflect on all our past issues and all of the stories we have been honored to share, Denver Urban Spectrum thanks all our contributors, readers, advertisers, and community for allowing us to be a part of your year and we look forward to sharing 2019 with you! .

2 – November

In November, we enter the season of giving and giving thanks. DUS cover story by Alfonzo Porter, Too Rich to Be Poor looked at the plight of the Black buying power and what is needed to achieve true freedom. Contributor Jamil Shabazz talked about an upcoming conference on genocide and slavery and the five speakDenver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

JL Thompson Dancers Ministering Through Dance By Janet Dallas and Ruby Jones

or over 19 years, Edweena Gilmore has spread the love of Jesus Christ through dance, music, theater, and spoken word. She is a woman with a vision, who works as the administrator of a non-profit organization in

addition to her role as manager of the JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry for youth and adults. Known for her graceful humility and faithful stewardship, Gilmore uses her artistic talent to glorify God. With an origin in the church, the mission of her ministry is to “Praise Him with Dance.” The JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry has had an enormous impact on audiences, who enjoy the uplifting music and beautiful expressions of worship. The ensemble has performed at many events throughout Colorado and has embarked on internainterna tional missions to share throughGod’s love through out the world. For Gilmore, min-istering the love of Jesus Christ through dance is a way to bring people closer to God. She believes that dance allows people to see the light of Jesus, putting faith and trust in His control of our lives. She says, “People need to see the light and know there’s always an answer.” By extending the reach of her dance ministry out of the church and into the community, Gilmore hopes to uplift and inspire a

broadened audience. Gilmore’s dance ministry allows her to touch people’s lives with powerpower ful movement and encouragencourag ing messages. She enjoys the impact that praise dance has on young people and incorporates felfel lowship and team-building in her ensembles to create an environment where young people look out for each other and work in tandem as their brother’s keepers. Gilmore coaches the youth to understand that praise dance is far more than just artistic movement; it is a ministry that brings hope and inspiration to wounded people. She teaches the ensemble to dance with heartfelt, healing intentions, using worship to “Reach out to someone and let God lift them up.” The JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry has expanded the horizons of dancers, allowing messages of God’s love and light to be shared around the world. The ensemble was invited to travel to the East African country of Kenya, where they witnessed the firsthand effects of the AIDS crisis, performing for children in orphanages who had lost their parents to the deadly disease. They danced with fervor, inspiring hope and healing for the children, while also providing food, clothing, hugs, and words of encouragement. Gilmore has fond memories of the trip; “I fell in love with the street children,” she remembers, thankful for the opportunity to share the love of Jesus Christ with innocent children who need it most. Gilmore makes every effort to minister love and encouragement to children and adults in Colorado’s communities. Many families are burdened by serious hardships such as homelessness, addiction, imprisonment, and abuse, but dance ministry is a powerful way to remind those who may be struggling, that God is still in control.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

The ensemble is trained to interact with audiences, and to provide muchneeded love and reassurance through recconversations and hugs. Gilmore rec ognizes that a meaningful embrace during hard times can go a long way toward making people feel loved, appreciated and needed. She strives to show people that they are genuinely cared for, refusing to allow them to feel forgotten or rejected. The JL Thompson Dance Ensemble burMinistry is working to relieve the bur den of life’s challenges by supporting outvarious organizations through out reach and performances at community events. Addie Short, a member of the ensemble since 2006, is responsible for the promotion of fundraising events and activities that raise money facilithroughout the year. Short has facili tated the support of various projects and outreach groups, including the Denver Rescue Mission, Urban Peak, The Crossing, the Lawrence Street Shelter, and other organizations that provide assistance to veterans and their families. Gilmore models her dance ministry after the practices of Jesus Christ, who ministered in the street with the people instead of being shut up in a synagogue. She shares the love of God and the message of His salvation with all who are willing to receive it. Gilmore believes that the biggest contributions are those that touch people’s lives. During the holiday season, the JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry is delighted to sing carols, purchase food for the distribution of holiday dinners, and provide Christmas gifts for children and families. Throughout the year, the group visits local senior centers, where residents are comforted by the unconditional love shown by the ensemble’s youth. The JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry will host its annual event, “The Mistletoe Jam,” on December 15, 2018, at the Double Tree Hotel at 4040 Quebec Street in Denver. The black-tie dance fundraiser will support the New Hope orphanage, with warmth and comforting messages of God’s love during the holiday season. Gilmore’s service to her community through the ministry of praise dance and worship is a treasure. As the JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry prepares for another year of uplifting performances and community service, she reminds us to exhibit God’s love through acts of kindness, and to spread the gospel through praise.Y Editor’s note: For more information on the JL Thompson Dance Ensemble Ministry or tickets to The Mistletoe Jam, email Edweena Gilmore at egilmore@ gilmorecc.com or call 303-356-6932.

One Heartbeat: Reflections from the Conference on Genocide and Slavery: Awareness, Prevention Reconciliation

By Jamil Shabazz

CoAAG Founder and Executive Director Roz Duman

Panelists Omhagain Dayeen and Obeid Kaifo

Chair Dr. Tim Kubik Charles “Charlie” Plenty Wolf

Photos by Alicia Fall

he day will eternally belong to those who are willing to challenge it. To those who use their voice to bring light to the dark indignities of mankind. On Tuesday Nov. 14, the day belonged to the significant six panelists and all in attendance at the conference on Genocide and Slavery: Awareness, Prevention Reconciliation. The conference was presented by the Coalition Against Global Genocide (CoAGG). A coalition on a mission to educate, motivate and empower individuals and communities to oppose genocide and crimes against humanity. In cooperation with faculty from Metropolitan State University and the University of Denver, the roundtable sessions took place at the storied St. Cajetan’s Church on the Auraria Campus. The conference, moderated by CoAGG Chair Dr. Tim Kubik, featured six diverse community activists: Omhagain Dayeen, an artist and a Sudanese refugee; Obeid Kaifo, firstgeneration Syrian-American Muslim and co-founder of Coalition for an Inclusive Colorado (CIC); Charles “Charlie” Plenty Wolf of the Oglala Lakota tribe, land activist and community organizer; Aubrey Ardema, an attorney and entrepreneur; Dr. Douglas Mpondi, associate professor and department chair of Africana Studies at MSU Denver; and Dr. Ryan Ross, president of the Urban Leadership Foundation of Colorado.

Closing remarks were delivered by Program Committee Co-Chair Prof. Arthur Gilbert. He emphasized the positive impact and necessity of keeping this dialogue/conference going and that all of us should remain vigilant in our thoughts and actions. Throughout the conference there was a permeating feeling of mutual responsibility and togetherness. The day’s greatest example of this came from Charlie Plenty Wolf and his traditional Native American drum group, The Plenty Wolf Singers. During which the group filled the church with the fury of Native American drumming, pounding until the room started to vibrate. A pause in the vibrations came when Charlie addressed the room.

Sunlight beamed through the stained glass windows of the church as Charlie, Obeid and Omhagain navigated the dialogue through the first session of the conference that was focused on awareness and prevention of genocide and slavery. Obeid Kaifo was extremely passionate telling the assembly more than once, “You have to use your voice to speak out against injustice and provoke change!” There were several moments of pride and poignancy as the activists described their individual journey to activism. The density of their words had the desired effect as a reflective hush cloaked the sanctuary as it was time to break for lunch. Reconvening after lunch the significant six on the panel tackled the responsibility of reparations and reconciliation in regards to genocide and slavery. Every one of them brought swaths of insight, information and collective experience, which made for a well-informed dialogue. Founder and executive director of CoAGG, Roz Duman agreed. “This was not easy to put together. There were so many ups and downs during these past several years and even though there were thoughts of not doing it, I’m glad that at the end we didn’t give up. It was a wonderful beginning.”

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

“Everyone, if you would please join hands and make a circle, we want you to experience what we do,” he said. A circle formed with hands clasped in someone else’s; the drumming resumes. The beat is softer, and in rhythm like a metronome. Save for the drummers every conference attendee begins to circulate, raising their arms to the rhythm of the drums. Positive energy flows from one person to the next. Time becomes insignificant as the only responsibility is to the rhythm of the room and the person in your grasp. As the drums subside, I revel in the accord, and the lasting impression from the conference. We are all of one heartbeat. .

FROM THE SIDELINES

Where There Is A Dyl, There Is A Way What do you get when you

combine the fancy footwork and agility of a running back with the powerful passing precision of a quarterback? A dynamic All-American football player who delivers standout performances in every game! Dylan “The Real Dyl” James transferred to Eaglecrest High School for

By Zilingo Nwuke and Ruby Jones

the 2018-2019 season, and quickly became the quarterback to watch, leading the team to the quarter-final game of the playoffs before ending the season with an impressive overall record of 10-2. James is a native of Colorado. He was raised in Denver with his brother Tyrell, and started playing football when he was just 5-years old. His mother, Misty Bell, remembers watch-

ing James play in the early days, “He has always loved the game,” she says, “The first time I saw him get tackled I thought he was going to be hurt, but his response was, ‘I need to work on my tackling.’ Imagine, hearing that from a 6-year old!” James started his high school career as a freshman on the varsity team. During his sophomore year, when the upperclassvarsity team was full of upperclass men, James moved himself down to junior varsity to get more time on the field. After 12 years of perfecting his pheskills, the energetic high school phe nom adds excitement to the game he loves. Bell, is an avid supporter of her son, and loves to watch him play. “It’s really funny. A lot of people, even opposing coaches, say that he is a lot of fun to watch,” she boasts. It may be fun for audiences, but to his opponents, the 5-foot 8-inch, 165pound 17-year old is an intimidating presence on the field. “They’re scared to play against him,” laughs Bell, “He is scary to play against, but he is a lot of fun to watch!” In the summer before his junior year, James traveled with his family, attending football camps and gaining exposure in front of an audience of top

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Dylan James (right) at Senior Night at Eaglecrest High School with brother Tyrell and mother Misty Bell college coaches. “We expected him to have a great season his junior year; we planned to send his film to colleges to be considered for scholarships,” says Bell; but after only four games, James suffered a painful shoulder separation that ended his 2017-2018 season. “The big year he was supposed to have ended up being heartbreaking. He had a plan in place, but it fell apart.” James worked hard to recover from the injury, refusing to let it hold him

FROM THE SIDELINES

back. “During the injury, I thought a lot. I thought, how can I bounce back stronger from all of this. When we had our first scrimmage, I was a little worried about getting hurt again, but I just had to play and be confident.” Dylan James with Coach Garrett Looney

His confidence paid off, with epic playmaking that earned him a spot in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl, in December, held in Dallas, Texas. The Eaglecrest Raptors were undefeated in one of the biggest rivalry

games of James’ high school career. They made their first encounter with the Grandview Wolves on Sept. 28 and found themselves struggling when the Wolves made a fast start. By halftime, the Wolves were ahead 3521, but having a quarterback with the skill set of a running back paid off for the Raptors when James made his third rushing touchdown of the night, cutting the lead to 35-28. With seconds left in the game, the Raptors were facing 4th and 15 at midfield. James launched a beautiful bullet that sailed through the air and into the hands of wide receiver Ty Robinson. The play resulted in a spec spectacular touchdown, followed by a suc successful two-point conversion and a monumental win. James recalled the play with Colorado High School Activities Association’s NOW publication, say saying “It was hanging up there for a lit little bit, but I knew he was going to catch the ball and he came down with it. It was amazing.” After the win, James gave fans a glimpse into what made the 2018-2019 Raptors so strong, telling 9News, “We just got to push through adversity, and that’s what we

did. When we work as a team, we’re a good ball team.” James’ leadership and amazing performances week after week helped the Raptors reach the Colorado 5A playoffs, but they were defeated by the rival Wolves when the teams faced each other again during the quarterfinal tournament on Nov. 17. The Raptors ended their season with an overall state ranking of no. 8, and James finished his high school career as the top-5 football player in the state

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

with over 2,000 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, making way for an elite opportunity for him to showcase his talents. James attributes the success of this season to his coach and teammates. “Coach Looney has been a great football mentor to me and he truly believes in me,” he says. “A huge shout out to my teammates for welcoming me to the team and trusting me to lead them through a great season.” Continued on page 12

FROM THE SIDELINES

The Real Dyl Continued from page 11 James was selected to the BlueGrey All-American Bowl this year, after participating in the Blue-Grey All-American Combine throughout his high school career. On Dec. 17, he will be in the spotlight, playing his heart out in celebration of all that he has accomplished. “I’m very excited about that,” he said, “I’ve been doing the Blue and Grey event since sopho

more year. This is the first time I’ve made it this far. I can’t wait for the experience!” James will add this badge of honor to an extensive list of academic and athletic achievements as he looks forward to playing football at the next level. He hopes to receive a football scholarship, and has interest in several colleges – one where he plans to study sports therapy or sports management. With months left before graduation, James is working hard every day to reach his goals.

James’ family is excited to see him play for some of football’s top recruiters, and they are raising money to help cover travel and game expenses. If you would like to support “The Real Dyl,” on his journey to Dallas, you can make a donation at https://bit.ly/2S448yg. For more information, call 303-292-6446 or email mistytalise@yahoo.com. .

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Avoid Gaining Weight Over the Holidays Janet Buckner Colorado State Representative

By Kim Farmer

There will be plenty of choices available over the holidays and who can resist all of the candy at the office, pies at the parties, wine with the girls or an extra glass of beer with the guys? No one! And how easy is it to NOT exercise around the holidays? Very! But holiday weight control can be easier if you follow these guidelines: 1. During the holidays, exercise may be the very last thing you think of doing. It is perfectly ok to miss a day or two of exercise, but try not to make it any more than this. It will be very easy to miss another day, and still another day if you let more than two days go by. Even if you don’t exercise for as long as you normally do, it is important to still do something. 2. Don’t deny yourself of your favorite things, but learn to control the portion sizes instead. By denying yourself of something you love, you are only making it harder to resist

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which only increases the urge to overeat. So limit yourself to one piece of pie or cake, use only a tablespoon of gravy, and drink only one glass of wine or beer. 3. Move something while you are in front of the TV. Don’t just sit there, use that time to do some floor exercises like sit ups or push ups, squats or lunges, or if you have an elastic band, the exercises are virtually endless. Jumping jacks, jump roping (with or without an actual rope) or walking or jogging in place are all more effective than just sitting there! 4. When you are ready to take the tree and/or the decorations down, place the box strategically far away from the tree so that you can walk back and forth between them to burn some calories. Or consider buying a box of candy canes and passing them out to a few of your neighbors over a span of 6 to 10 blocks. 5. We all love online shopping, but it has taken away some of the walking and shopping time we used to enjoy. Take some time to do some of your shopping at a mall so that you can also get some walking time in. And if the weather is cold for a period of time, use the mall to do your walking even if you are not shopping. Don’t let the cold weather be an excuse for not moving. While the holidays are an important time not to break your healthy habits, they are also usually not a good time to try to start new ones. Try to stay on track with your exercise schedule, and be sure to eat in moderation when food is in abundance and rich with flavor. Reward yourself if you stick to it, and engage a friend or relative to help you stick with it if necessary. Have fun, and happy holidays. . Editor’s note: Kim Farmer of Mile High Fitness & Wellness offers in-home personal training and corporate wellness solutions. For more information, visit www.milehighfitness.com or email inquiries@milehighfitness.com

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Undesign the Redline Explores History of U.S. Housing Policy, Race, Segregation and Impact in Denver

“Undesign the Redline” will be on display at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library to Dec. 15, and at the Wellington E. Webb

Blair-Caldwell library, Webb building to host interactive exhibition Nov. 15-Jan. 2

The Denver Foundation, Enterprise Community Partners (Enterprise), and Designing the WE are proud to present “Undesign the Redline,” an interactive exhibition that traces the history and legacy of housing discrimination and segregation across Metro

“Our goal is to provide a tool through which we help community members understand how our living and residential patterns developed over time,” says LaDawn Sullivan, Director of Leadership & Equity at The Denver Foundation. “The exhibit spotlights the government’s role in maintaining segregation.” “Undesign the Redline not only shows us how the discriminatory policies and practices of the past still shape our lives today, but also helps us see what we can do to build equitable, sustainable, and inclusive communities,” noted Jennie Rodgers, Vice President and Denver Market Leader, Enterprise. “The exhibit and upcoming discussions and tours will help us create a better Denver region.” “Undesign the Redline” puts into perspective the local community landscape and the history of Denver, featuring the stories of: Clara

Denver and the United States.

Municipal Office Building from Dec. 18 to Jan. 2, 2019. A series of public events and programs will complement the exhibition. Created by social impact firm Designing the WE, in partnership with Enterprise, the interactive exhibition uses powerful narratives of people and communities, maps, and other documentation to trace how “redlining,” government policies going back to the 30s, created racial segregation and disinvestment in communities that persist to this day. The exhibition combines historical artifacts, storytelling, photographs, and activities to illustrate redlining’s roots and lasting repercussions. The history in the Denver neighborhoods of Five Points, Park Hill, Montbello, Globeville and many others will be explored through stories, historical artifacts, and timelines that extend from the 1800s through the present. “Undesign the Redline” is being brought to Denver with generous sponsorship from The Denver Foundation, Shift Research Lab, CHFA, Wells Fargo, The City and County of Denver, and Denver Public Library. Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Brown, the first African-American woman to make it in the Colorado Gold Rush; Mayor Benjamin Stapleton and the KKK; Mile High Housing Association, the first cooperative of single-family homes in the nation; The Denver Black Panther Party; The annexation of Auraria by the Denver Urban Renewal Authority and more. The Exhibit will be on display from Nov. 15 to Dec. 15 at the BlairCaldwell African American Research Library (Monday and Wednesday, 12 to 8 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, closed) and from Dec. 18 to Jan. 2, 2019 at the Wellington E. Webb Municipal Office Building, 201 W. Colfax (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). . Editor’s note: For more information, visit www.enterprisecommunity.org/newsand-events/undesign-the-redline

Colorful Stories Recounted

By Ruby Jones

On Saturday, November 3, 2018,

five extraordinary women were hon-

ored in the presence of friends, family, peers, and colleagues at the Colorful Stories Luncheon, hosted by the Denver Urban Spectrum magazine. The theme of the event, “See Me, Hear Me,” took audiences on an immersive three-month journey, beginning with the written profiles of women who have overcome adversity and hardship, and culminating with a beautiful celebration of their success. Since 1987, Denver Urban Spectrum has served as Colorado’s premier publication for communities of color. For over 30 years, the magazine has featured countless public figures, local businesses, and community leaders whose services might otherwise be overlooked. Publisher Rosalind “Bee” Harris attributes the success and longevity of the publication to the many compelling stories that have been shared throughout the years. 10 years after the tragic and untimely loss of her mother, Harris wanted to do something special to acknowledge and celebrate the strength and special accomplishments of individuals who have overcome tragedy and devastation to create lives that inspire and empower others. Recognizing storytelling as an essential aspect in communities of color, Harris launched the Colorful Stories project to extend the voices of some of Colorado’s most cherished and respected citizens. Five women were carefully selected as honorees for the inaugural Colorful Stories event, each with powerful messages about overcoming tribulations with courage, determination, and faith. Along with the sharing of inspirational and empowering stories, the project highlighted some of the social issues that continue to plague communities of color, such as institutional racism, public safety, health disparities, political engagement, and elder abuse.

The Colorful Stories honorees included women whose stories represent a spectrum of personal challenges. Carlotta Walls LaNier, the civil rights pioneer who changed the face of education in America as the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, was honored for her contributions toward the integration of America’s public school system in 1957, as well as her ongoing efforts to empower young people in the fight against institutionalized racism. Ollie Marie Phason was honored for the strength and resilience she displayed after her 6-year old son, Broderick Bell, was shot in the forehead during Denver’s notorious 1993 “Summer of Violence,” and for her active support of organizations that help at-risk women and survivors of violent crimes. Rhonda Jackson, an immensely talented actress and playwright, was honored for the perseverance and bravery she exhibits while living with Lupus; as well as her work to alleviate the monumental socio-economic impact of the illness. Senator Rhonda Fields was honored for her tenacious fight for public safety and criminal justice after the heartbreaking murder of her son, Javad Fields, and his fiancée, Vivian Wolfe; and for her ability to transform pain into power as a political powerhouse who was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2010, 2012, and 2014, before becoming the first Black woman to serve Aurora’s Senate District 29. In commemoration of the 10th anniversary since her death, Harris’ mother, Ruth Boyd, was the final honoree. She was recognized for her loving devotion to her family, and Harris was recognized for her advocacy work, and her efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of our community with the establishment of the Ruth Boyd Elder Abuse Foundation in her mother’s memory. Held at the Renaissance Hotel in Denver, the Colorful Stories Luncheon opened with a stunning vocal performance by film and television actress and singer, Vickilyn Reynolds, who stars as Academy Award-winning actress Hattie McDaniel in the powerful one-woman show, Hattie, What I Need You To Know. Graduates of the Denver Urban Spectrum Youth Foundation, Kia Milan, Cecile Perrin, and Melovy Melvin, welcomed guests to the

event and introduced the emcee for the afternoon, Emmy Award-winning journalist Tamara Banks. The ceremony began with remarks from Norma Paige and Denver’s First Lady and Honorary Colorful Stories Chair, Mary Louise Lee, who thanked the women for their contributions to Colorado communities, and praised their collective strength and eloquent representation of womanhood. Lunch was preceded by an artful invocation given by Reverend Quincy Shannon, and as they feasted, guests were treated to a premiere viewing of the Colorful Stories: See Me, Hear Me video, which captured the essence of each story amid the brilliant floral landscape of the Denver Botanic Gardens. Personal photographs and memorabilia evoked an emotional response as each honoree’s painful story was recounted on screen. As the video came to an end, the audience roared with applause as Banks welcomed the honorees to the stage. Each honoree was categorically paired with community experts for an engaging panel discussion about social issues that impact Colorado’s communities of color. LaNier was accompanied by Dr. Brenda J. Allen, Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion and Professor of Communication at the University of Colorado Denver and the Anschutz Medical Campus. When asked about the current impact of institutional racism in education, both women praised the efforts of social leaders who work tirelessly to eliminate disparities in education and other systems, but agreed that there are still many challenges presented by racial inequity. Phason was accompanied by Detective Lisa Love of the Denver Police Department, along with her son, Bell, who received an electrifying standing ovation. Detective Love revealed that in 1993, soon after becoming a police officer, she was struggling to find purpose when Bell’s photograph on the cover of a newspaper served as the motivating force behind her 28-year career. She shared that the Denver Police Department has a commitment to serving the community ethically, and expressed hopes that the implementation of several training programs focused on protecting the basic human rights of citizens will improve the relationship between law enforcement and communities of color.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Jackson was joined by Dr. Terri Richardson, an Internist at Kaiser Permanente who specializes in health care issues impacting the African American community. Jackson discussed the physical challenges caused by Lupus, as well as the massive socioeconomic impact of the disease. Dr. Richardson urged the audience to take every measure to protect their health with regular screenings and potentially life-saving treatment. Senator Fields was paired with Reverend Dr. Stephany Rose Spaulding, chair of the Women’s and Ethnic Studies program at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, and Democratic Candidate for Congress for Colorado’s 5th Congressional District. Fields attributed her early motivation to enter politics to the absence of the protections that could have saved her son’s life, while Spaulding made a call to action, urging attendees to become engaged in the political process to improve conditions in their communities. Harris was joined by Whitney Nettleton, a manager at the Denver County Adult Protective Services division of the Denver Department of Human Services. By reminding the audience that 1 in 4 aging adults will experience physical, financial, or sexual abuse or neglect, the women urged the audience to be mindful of the elders in their community, and to pay attention to physical signs or indications that people are being mistreated. The Colorful Stories project was hugely successful, with thought-provoking dialogue about everything from the broken relationship between police and people of color, to the availability of resources for significant health challenges, and the best ways to protect mental health and wellness amid discrimination and raciallycharged events. After the completion of the panel discussion, each honoree was presented with a Colorful Stories award in recognition of their advocacy and leadership. Event Chair Kenneth Johnson closed out the program by presenting a special award to First Lady Mary Louise Lee for serving as the Honorary Chair. The Colorful Stories project provided powerful messages about the importance of education, advocacy, and civic engagement while reinstating a healthy system of storytelling that will continue to inspire, empower, and advance Colorado communities for years to come. . Editor’s note: The Colorful Stories videos are available for viewing on YouTube at https://youtu.be/PUX8msKaHLU. For more information on the Ruth Boyd Elder Abuse Foundation, email publisher@urbanspectrum.net or call 303-292-6446.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Colorful Stories

See Me

Hear Me

stories of tribulation, courage and triumph Saturday, November 3, 2018 Renaissance Hotel Denver Photos by

Bernard Grant and Sweetz Photography

Denver Urban Spectrum â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.denverurbanspectrum.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; December 2018

Acknowledgements & Gratitude Sponsors

Pynergy Haroun K. Cowans Sawaya Law Firm ARC Thrift Stores Asfaw McDonald’s Butler Snow Special Thanks CBAM – Co Black Arts Movement Al Saadiq Johnson/Stunt Time Productions Bernard Grant Colorado Access Bobby Wells Music Brian “Scoop” Nemeth Connect For Health Brother Jeff/Five Points News Cephas Howard IHR Recycling Dale Carroll Janus Henderson Denver Botanic Gardens Donald James/Pit Stop BBQ Mable Sutton Goatfish & Friends Visit Denver Hailima Yates Jody Gilbert/Kolor Graphix The Flyfisher Group KGNU Linda Theus-Lee Webb Group Int’l

Table Sponsors Lupus Foundation Colorado MOC – Montbello Organizing Committee Morris Price Jr. Ollie Marie Phason Safe City Senator Rhonda Fields University of Denver

Storytellers & Experts Carlotta Walls LaNier Dr. Brend J. Allen Ollie Marie Phason Det. Lisa Love Rhonda Jackson Dr. Terri Richardson Rhonda Fields Stephany Rose Spalding Ruth J. Boyd Whitney Nettleton

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Rev. Quincy Shannon Tanya Ishikawa/Buffalo Trails Tamara Banks Vickilyn Reynolds Vinson Powell

Committee Members Kenneth Johnson – Chair Melovy Melvin – Co-Chair Alfonzo Porter Angelo Cho Britney Dallas Cecile {errin Cherry Reynolds Jamil Shabazz Janet Dallas Kia Milan Lawrence James Lori Collier Mable Sutton Misty Bell Norma J. Paige Ruby Jones Sandra Stephens Velois Carr Rausch Zilingo “Zee” Nwuke

Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole Selected As Board Chair And Seventh President Of National Council Of Negro Women

Left to Right: Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole taking her oath of as the new Board Chair and seventh president of NCNW with Ingrid Saunders Jones, immediate past chair, holding the Bible; and former U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman, a senior advisor to NCNW, administering the oath of office. Photo credit: Summerland Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) – The National Council of Negro Women (NCMW) selected Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole as its chair and seventh president during the closing session of their 58th Biennial National Convention in Washington, D.C. Ingrid Saunders Jones, who served as NCNW’s chair for more than six years, will continue to serve the organization as the immediate past chair. “At this moment when I have the exceptional honor of beginning my service as the chair of our beloved National Council of Negro Women, I am thinking of a proverb from the Swahili Coast of that great continent that is the cradle of humanity: Africa,” said Dr. Cole during her acceptance remarks. “It says it does no harm to be grateful. My heart is overflowing with gratitude for this honor to serve as the seventh president of this organization that has been a voice of and for Black women since it was founded in 1935 by the amazing and grace-filled Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and lead so

brilliantly and soulfully for more than 50 years by the unconquerable Dr. Dorothy Height.” Dr. Cole’s path to becoming NCNW’s new chair began during her childhood when she and her sister had the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, a longtime friend of her great grandfather. Dr. Bethune counseled the young sisters about the importance of education and being of service to others. She heeded Dr. Bethune’s advice as her career and service exemplifies. “When social justice is on the menu, I promise to ensure that NCNW has a seat at the table and I’m committed to preparing the next generation of women leaders so NCNW can continue to be an influential power in the ongoing struggle for equality,” said Dr. Cole. “As a lifetime member of NCNW, Johnnetta is well suited to steward the legacies and promises of Dr. Bethune and Dr. Height,” said Ingrid Saunders Jones. “With more than 650 delegates representing more than 200 sections

and affiliates from across the country coming together in unity to achieve the smooth transition of leadership, including the acceptance and installation of a slate of 22 officers by affirmation, NCNW is in good hands.” A woman of many firsts, Dr. Cole served as the president of both historically Black colleges for women in the United States, Atlanta-based Spelman College and Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina. She served as director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art. Dr. Cole was the first African American to serve as chair of the board of United Way of America. She also served on a number of other corporate boards: Nations Bank South, Home Depot, Merck; and was the first woman to serve on the board of Coca Cola Enterprises. She has authored and edited several books and numerous scholarly articles; and has received numerous awards, including a NCNW Uncommon Height Award and 68 honorary degrees. Dr. Cole is principal consultant with Cook Ross, Inc., a consulting firm in Silver Spring, Maryland, and is a member of the board of Martha’s Table. She is a fellow of the American Anthropological Association; and holds memberships in several diverse organizations including the American Academy of Arts and Sciences; Delta Sigma Theta

Sorority; and the Links, Inc. She resides on Amelia Island in her home state of Florida. .

About The National Council of Negro Women Founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, NCNW is a coalition of some the nation’s most powerful and influential women’s groups. Its mission is to lead, advocate for and empower women of African descent, their families and communities. To learn more about the organization, please visit www.ncnw.org. Follow on social media: Twitter/Instagram: @ncnw_hq

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Widows

Must See............llll It’s Worth A Look.....lll See At Your Own Risk.ll Don’t Bother.....................l

Editor’s note: Samantha Ofole-Prince is an award-winning writer and contributor to many national publications and is Blackflix.com’s Senior Critic-at-Large. Khaleel Herbert is a journalism student at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Laurence Washington is the creator of BlackFlix.com. Like Blackflix.com on Facebook, follow Blackflix.com on Twitter

Widows llll By Samantha Ofole-Prince

At first glance, a heist movie may

seem an odd choice for Steve McQueen given his previously helmed flicks, which include the political drama Hunger and the award-winning slave flick 12 Years a Slave. There’s never been reason to think the British director would be interested in a Stateside-based heist flick, but the set-up certainly offers an explanation as the story offers a twist on the typical heist film in that each character that intersects comes from different ethnic, financial and social background. Set in contemporary Chicago amidst a time of political and societal turmoil, Academy-Award winning actress Viola Davis leads the powerhouse cast as Veronica Rawlins, a widow who is forced to pick up the pieces of her life after her husband, Harry (Liam Neeson), is killed in a failed robbery. With mounting debts and an unscrupulous mob seeking to collect, she decides to finish the task he was supposed to commit with the other widows of Harry’s criminal cohorts. It’s a brilliant thriller that tackles love, politics, religion, class, race and criminality. The widows who have nothing to lose include Michelle Rodriguez as Linda, who is struggling to keep her family and dress shop afloat after her husband’s death, Elizabeth Debicki, who plays Alice the Polish immigrant and the most sheltered of the widows and Cynthia Erivo who rounds off the cast as the street savvy Belle, an ally that steps in to help the women in their quest. A female driven drama with a middle age Black female lead, it’s the kind of twisty, cerebral thriller rarely seen onscreen and the brilliance of the film isn’t just in its clever plotting, but in the colorful characters and their interactions.

Despite being a caper drama, the film is not marred in movie effects and what McQueen offers is smart highconcept escapism with a love story between Davis and Neeson at the center of it. Colin Farrell plays a politician who weaves into the widows’ master plan. Brian Tyree Henry (Jamal) plays his political opponent in Chicago’s improvised 18th Ward and a man to whom Veronica discovers, Harry owes money, and Daniel Kaluuya is his sadistically evil brother Jatemme who is responsible for muscling in on Veronica to collect the money Harry owes Jamal. Mournful and angry but ever so exhilarating, Widows treats the women’s actions with a mixture of moral weight and satisfying catharsis. We’re convinced their characters have no other recourse but to perform a heist especially after Jatemme threatens Veronica. Strong performances, believable characters and an interesting and wellpaced premise keeps you compelled throughout and although it has real tension it finds places to interject a little humor. Widows is an enjoyable and sophisticated heist movie which is so expertly done that it’s certainly McQueen’s best film to date.

development but the spaces in between drags and water downs all of the storytelling. It plays like an action story interspersed with a Sweden Travel Vlog. This is a new story outside of the original trilogy created by Stieg Larsson. He wanted to do a 10 book series but died in 2004. David Lagercrantz picks up in book 4, and his story holds true to the spirit of the original trilogy. The film captures that but loses its way in execution. Lisbeth Salander (Claire Foy) is a computer hacking vigilante who is brilliant, strong, independent, and will not give up. She is contracted to steal a program by its creator, Fans Balder (Stephen Merchant), because it is too dangerous for humanity. She accepts the job but is set up by an organized gang known as the Spiders. They steal the program from her, and she is now out to complete her contract. Claire Foy (The Crown, First Man) completely embodies the strength and broody nature of Lisbeth. She is perfect for the role. Lakeith Stanfield (Get Out, Selma) plays a special agent in pursuit of Lisbeth, who ends up working with her. He adds a lot of depth to a supporting role. I could stand to see

The Girl in the Spider’s Web ll Jon Rutledge

irl power is on the rise, and this movie is being released at the perfect time. A strong female character that stands up for those who need help. With a great cast with strong performances and excellent cinematography, it’s a shame the film suffers from pacing issues. There are some superb action scenes and some good character

The Girl in the Spider’s Web

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

a spin-off with just him. A recurring character is Mikael Blomkvist who is the journalist who writes about Lisbeth. He was a pivotal character in the previous films but is reduced to set dressing in this story. He is played by Sverrir Gudnason (Borg vs. McEnroe, Gentlemen) who did great but the character seemed like Lisbeth was the only thing he wrote about. Aside for a few plot points and being a quasi-love interest, he seemed to be a throwaway character. The problems with the pacing come from shooting more establishing shots and focusing on more details that were needed. Waiting for the bad guys to show up and shots of the very wintery Sweden landscape interspaced with flashbacks to a story that was unfolding as events in the current timeline took place. A tighter story would have made this a more engaging film. If they what to make 10 of these, they have a lot of suitable material to work with as long as they focus on keeping the action and story balance right. This could be more engaging with better timing. They have a rocksolid character and now is the perfect time to bring her to the screen. She is the embodiment of female power fighting for people who can’t fight for themselves and exacting revenge for wrongs that are kept in the shadows. I just hope they can get the formula right or the only fight they will be fighting for is the top of the $5 DVD pile at Walmart.

“It’s A Story About Humanity” Says Overlord Star Jovan Adepo By Samantha Ofole-Prince Photos courtesy of Paramount Pictures

018 is proving to be a standout year for Jovan Adepo who made his first studio feature film debut opposite Denzel Washington and Viola Davis

REEL ACTION - WWW.BLACKFLIX.COM Overlord

in the award-winning film Fences. Since then, the young actor has starred opposite Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem in Darren Aronofsky’s feature Mother, and had roles in Sorry for Your Loss, HBO’s The Leftovers and Season Two of Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan. In his latest role, the Afro-British actor who can also be seen in Ava DuVernay’s upcoming Netflix series Central Park Five plays the lead role of U.S. Army Pvt. Boyce and is part of a team of American paratroopers who invade Nazi-occupied France to carry out a mission. “They are given a mission to drop into this French village and to take out an element of the German military, but are presented with another element of the military they didn’t except to encounter and they have to do their best to get the mission done,” shares Adepo who delivers an understated performance in this starring role. Tasked with destroying a radio transmitter atop a church, the desperate soldiers who range from terrified inductees to war-weary veterans, join forces with a young French villager to penetrate the walls and take down the tower. But, in a mysterious Nazi lab beneath the church, the outnumbered G.I.s come face-to-face with enemies who are part of a human experiment and have extraordinary abilities. A classic World War II movie meshed with a monster horror genre, it’s a thrilling, pulse-pounding action adventure with a twist. In the first half of the movie, audiences are introduced to the various young soldiers who give viewers a reason to care about the characters and develop some empathy for the soldiers who are presented as underdogs before the film takes a terrifying shift from military adventure to sci-fi horror. The intrinsically frightening nature and horrors of WWII combat certainly helps smooth the transition as it doesn’t feel like that much of a stretch

when introduced to the fantastical elements. “Many are seasoned soldiers,” continues Adepo, “and my character Boyce is trying to fit in where he can. When you first meet him, you’re not sure if he’s even capable of surviving the mission. Not because he’s physically unable to, but because he’s just cut from a different cloth than the others. That’s what makes him such an interesting character to follow and root for.” Directed by Australian filmmaker Julius Avery and produced by J.J. Abrams (10 Cloverfield Lane), one would certainly expect a film about American World War II soldiers to feature a white cast, but for Abrams, populating the film with a diverse cast was important as it allowed the production to cast a wider net in search of the best actors for the roles such as Adepo. “Having the opportunity to be a part of it was something that I took very seriously,” adds the actor. “From day one when I came down to read the script and audition for it, I wanted to do the best job that I could and put my best foot forward for the biggest thing I enjoy about a J.J. Abrams movie – the element of surprise. They have very interesting stories and complex characters. It was an opportunity I wasn’t going to let slip from my hands.” A men-on-a-mission movie, “Overlord is a wildly entertaining World War II movie with some humor sprinkled in along with emotion and sentiment. “It is a story about humanity. It’s about the preservation of humanity and verdict of the underdog and with two very specific genres that have been seamlessly meshed. People will go in not knowing quite what to expect. It is very much an action adventure but there are lots of things that can and will go wrong in this mission.”.

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

MAYOR’S CORNER Mayor Hancock Considering $15/Hour Minimum Wage for City Employees Mayor Michael B. Hancock said he is exploring a minimum wage of $15 an hour for city employees and those who work for businesses that operate in city facilities. “While unemployment is low and Denver’s economy is among the strongest in the country, wage growth has not kept pace with a rising cost of living,” Mayor Hancock said. “Lowerand middle-income workers are struggling to get by. I’ve been meeting with many employees and listened to stories and experiences. I believe we have an opportunity here to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.” The Mayor has directed the Department of Finance to explore increasing starting pay for city, contractor, vendor and tenant employees to $15 an hour, phased in over several years. Mayor Hancock said the review process will include outreach to community stakeholders, private-sector partners and employees. Findings and recommendations will be presented to the Mayor in early 2019. Cities like Denver have borne the brunt of the country’s growing income inequality challenges due to the lack of federal leadership and Congressional inaction to address it. Mayor Hancock has long advocated for improving wages and benefits for workers. He supported the two most recent successful ballot measures to increase the state’s minimum wage in 2006 and 2016. And over the past several years, he has taken significant steps to address affordability, equity and access to opportunity for Denver residents. In 2016, Mayor Hancock and City Council helped create Denver’s first dedicated affordable housing fund. This year, Mayor Hancock doubled the fund, expanded the city’s property-tax rebate program to cover more families, and unveiled an Equity Platform aimed at increas-

ing opportunity and creating a more inclusive economy. “I’m committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the unprecedented prosperity our city is enjoying today so that no one gets left behind,” Mayor Hancock said.

SEIU Celebrates Hancock Announcement to Explore Minimum Wage Increase

SEIU Local 105 Members have Pushed for Fair Worker Wages at the Airport and Throughout Denver Service Employees International Union (SEIU) is celebrating Denver Mayor Michael Hancock’s announcement that he is strongly considering increasing the minimum wage for all city and county of Denver employees including airport workers and contractor, vendor and tenant employees. “This announcement is exciting and well-deserved news for Denver workers at the airport and throughout the city,” said SEIU President Ron Ruggiero. “Many of these workers have high levels of responsibility and are critical for the safe and efficient operation of the airport and our city. All workers deserve to make a living wage and this announcement is uplifting news. We hope the Mayor’s office moves forward with this initiative as soon as possible.” SEIU workers have led the push for fair wages for all by being instrumental in passing Amendment 70 and by continuing the campaign to fight for

$15. For two years, they have also been working with Denver International Airport (DEN) workers, advocating for fair wages, job security, proper emergency preparedness training and the right to organize. In October, SEIU hosted the Global Airport Worker’s Day of Action with dozens of airports across the world to bring attention to the workers that serve and protect passengers every day. “I have had to work multiple jobs, including my job at the airport just to make a living,” said Andrew Tobin, DEN airport worker. “This announcement gives myself and workers throughout the city hope that we can expect a fair wage and that our work is valued in the city that we are so proud to work for.” This announcement comes on the heels of SEIU’s meeting last month with Mayor Hancock and DEN airport workers. Airport workers at the meeting called attention to the constant struggle they and their colleagues face in order to pay rent, provide for their families, and make ends meet in city with rapidly increasing costs of living. It also closely follows the 2018 midterm election which resulted in an overwhelming victory for progressive candidates across the state. In this election cycle, SEIU members invested thousands of volunteer hours to contact hundreds of thousands of new and existing voters. In addition to thousands of volunteer hours, SEIU members invested approximately $4 million in get-out-the-vote and communications efforts. Many of these candidates have committed to standing up for working families and support the Working People’s Platform. This platform consists of seven tenets that lift up the goals and recognize the struggles of working people, including higher wages, racial justice, immigrant justice, access to affordable healthcare and housing, a clean environment and the right to form a union..

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Major General Marcelite Jordan Harris, First African-American Female Major General In Us Military, Passes At 75

Nationwide (BlackNews.com) – Major General Marcelite Jordan Harris passed September 7, 2018 at Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL, where she was taken while on a Caribbean vacation. Though her death was sudden and unexpected, she was surrounded by loved ones. General Harris was born January 16, 1943 to Cecil O’Neal Jordan and Marcelite Terrill Jordan, both deceased. A native of Houston, TX, General Harris graduated from Kashmere High School before enrolling at Spelman College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in 1964. She received an honorary doctorate of letters from Spelman in 1999 and earned a B.S. in Business Management, University of Maryland University College. General Harris, fierce military leader, devoted wife, loving mother and nurturing grandmother, touched the lives of many throughout her illustrious career. She was married to Lt. Col. Maurice Harris, USAF (deceased) and raised two children Steven and Tenecia, during her years of active service. Being a mother, wife, and Air Force officer were roles that defined who she was, she told Ebony in 1995. From receiving her commission through Officer Training School at Lackland Air Force Base, TX in 1965 to her crowning glory appointment by President Obama to the Board of Visitors of the Air Force Academy, 2010-2016, she was on an ambitious and purposeful mission - to be the best. She approached each opportunity with strength and determination as she overcame many racial and gender roadblocks. “It was not easy,” she

reflected in the Ebony interview. In 1975, her career took a dramatic turn when she was named White House social aide and personnel staff officer under the presidential administrations of Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter before becoming one of the first air officers commanding at the Air Force Academy. She made history in 1991 when she became the first African American female Brigadier General in the Air Force. Soon after, again, General Harris overcame all odds when she was named the first female director of maintenance and deputy chief of staff for logistics at the U.S. Air Force Headquarters, Washington, D.C. in 1994. It was here at the Pentagon where she managed a work force of more than 125,000 technicians and managers and maintained the $260 billion Global Reach-Global Power aerospace weapons system inventory that she was promoted to Major General. Not only did this make her the highest-ranking woman in the Air Force, but also the highest-ranking African American woman in the entire Department of Defense. Despite the demands of her responsibilities, General Harris did not forget the commitment she had made to stand as a role model for all military women. Shortly before she retired in 1997, she helped establish a permanent office for the Committee on Women in NATO within the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing Military Committee. After her distinguished military career, she joined the United Space Alliance, Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Fl. Upon retiring a second time, she returned to Atlanta and continued to utilize her expertise and experiences. Locally, she served as Treasurer to the Atlanta branch of the NAACP, as President of Chautauqua Circle and was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She was also a proud member of First Congregational Church. Nationally, she served on the board of USAA for more than a decade. For her accomplishments, commitment to excellence and courageous journey, General Harris received many medals and decorations: Bronze Star, Legion of Merit with oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf clusters, Presidential Unit Citation and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, among others. To honor her legacy and contributions to African American women and American life, she was awarded many honors, including the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trailblazer Awardâ&#x20AC;? by the Black Girls Rock Foundation; Women of Legacy Award by Black Enterprise; Living Legacy Patriot Award by the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Center; Woman of the Year by the National Organization of

Tuskegee Airman; and the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor. General Harris is survived by her children, Lt. Col. Steven Harris, USAF (Sherri) of Omaha, NE, and daughter, Tenecia Harris of New York City; her sister, Elizabeth Johnson, Esq. (Dr. Richard) of Palm Beach County, FL; grandchildren, Sydnee and Samuel Harris; nephew Richard Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal Johnson; grand-nephew Daquoin Johnson; her longtime companion, Lt. Col. David Branch, USA (Ret.); and a host of relatives and close friends. Full military funeral honors will be held at Ft. Myer Old Post Chapel, Arlington, VA and she will be buried

at Arlington National Cemetery, alongside her husband, Lt. Col. Maurice Harris, USAF (Ret.) February 7, 2019 at 11 a.m. A celebratory memorial service following the burial will be held at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial near Arlington National Cemetery. Visitation and public viewing will be held at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Rd, Springfield VA, Springfield VA, Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2019, from 5 to 8 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Spelman College, Major General Marcelite Jordan Harris, C â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;64, Memorial Endowed Scholarship..

Denver Urban Spectrum â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.denverurbanspectrum.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; December 2018

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NEWSVIEWS Albus Brooks Announces Re-Election Bid Councilman Albus Brooks has filed for re-election, asking the voters to partner with him for a third term on Denver’s City Council. The two-term incumbent, who also served two terms as the Denver City Council President, is seeking his third term to represent the residents of Denver’s 9th City Council District. Councilman Brooks’ political career started in 2011 with a write-in campaign against 38 challengers, where his message of “Connecting Diverse Communities” resonated from the grassroots to grass tops. Since taking office, Councilman Brooks has pursued policies that reflect his heart for Denver’s marginalized youth, and help build housing & economic opportunity for all. Serving as co-chairs of the campaign are former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb and former Colorado State Representative Hon. Wilma Webb. Serving with them are philanthropists and local business leaders, Matthew and Priya Burkett. “District 9 deserves a leader with political experience and a heart for the community. Albus knows what the community needs and how to get it done,” noted Hon. Wilma Webb. “I’ve

seen Albus in action, and have been impressed with what he has been able to accomplish serving the city on council. As a leader of Denver and as a District 9 constituent, I strongly urge my neighbors to support his campaign and give him a third term in office,” added Hon. Wellington Webb. In a joint statement, the Burkett’s shared their support for Brooks. “We appreciate the way Councilman Brooks continues to invest in the lives of the families and supports education in our community. His work on Denver’s first affordable housing fund and the bill he sponsored to create a sustainable funding for Denver’s Preschool Program are examples of why District 9 needs him. He is close enough to us to understand our current needs and far enough ahead of us to guide us into the future.” The former Chief of Staff for State Representative James Coleman and Constituent Advocate & Community Liaison for US Senator Michael Bennet, Kwon Atlas, has been named the Campaign Manager.

Jena Griswold Elected Colorado’s Next Secretary Of State Colorado elects a Democratic Secretary of State for the first time since 1958 as Jena Griswold was declared the winner in the Colorado Secretary of State’s race. Incumbent Wayne Williams called Jena to congratulate her on her victory and to concede the race. Jena Griswold will be the first Democrat elected as Secretary of State since 1958. Griswold was the only women nominated in the primary to statewide executive office, and is the first Democratic women ever elected as Colorado Secretary of State. Despite being a first-time candidate, the campaign broke fundraising records and had a record number of volunteers. Jena Griswold began her victory speech by thanking her opponent, “I want to thank Wayne Williams. We should all applaud his years of service to our state.” She outlined her priorities as Colorado’s next Secretary of State, “We must ensure that every single voter be heard–black or white; old or young, Republican, Democrat or Independent. Colorado can start down this path by expanding automatic voter registration. We must reduce the power of dark money in our elections so that special interests and the billionaire class don’t drown out our voices with endless secret political spending.” Griswold, 34, grew up in Estes Park, Colorado. She holds a double bachelor’s degree in Politics and Spanish Literature from Whitman

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

College. She received her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Griswold previously practiced international anti-corruption law in Washington, D.C. and served as Director of Governor Hickenlooper’s D.C. Office. She is a small business owner and lives in Louisville.

LEAP Launches New Online Application for Heating Assistance Program Colorado’s Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) will kickoff the 2018-19 season with a new online application process for individuals and families needing heating assistance. Enrollment for the 2018-19 programs started November 1 and continues through April 30. “With the new online application process, individuals can apply from any device, or they can still visit one of our county locations,” said Theresa Kullen, LEAP manager. “We believe everyone who needs assistance is going to find this is easier, takes less time and overall the whole process is more efficient.” Applications can be accessed through LEAP’s website at www.colorado.gov/cdhs/LEAP, which links to the state’s CO PEAK system for online application, which consolidates resources in one easy-touse location. For program eligibility, candidates must pay home heating costs directly to a utility company or landlord as part of their rent, be a permanent legal resident of the United States and Colorado or have a legal U.S. citizen in the household. A family household income cannot surpass 165 percent of the federal poverty index. If approved, LEAP payments are usually made directly to the primary heating vendor and a notice is sent to individuals regarding the benefit amount. Last year, approximately 65,000 applications were approved with assistance averaging $337 to $674 across the state. Other benefits provided by the program include repair or replacement of a home’s primary heating system. To determine the monthly income eligibility according to the household size, visit www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdhs/program-eligibility. LEAP is a federally-funded program that helps Coloradans pay a portion of home heating costs during the winter. “For those not comfortable with online processes, applications can still be faxed, mailed or delivered to the appropriate county/contractor LEAP office,” said Kullen. For more information call Heat Help at 1-866-432-8435. .

Mississippi Senate Race May Be Defining Moment for Black Voters By Khalil Abdullah Ethnic Media Services

ississippi Senator Cindy HydeSmith’s remark to a colleague that “If he invited me to a public hanging, I’d be on the front row” puts the Magnolia State at center stage for Black voters in the 2018 mid-term elections. Mississippi had the highest number of lynchings in the United States between 1882 and 1968, according to NAACP records. Hyde-Smith’s explanation that her phrase “was an ‘exaggerated expression of regard’ drew outrage from Dr. Maya R. Cummings, president and CEO of Global Policy Solutions, veteran Capitol Hill staffer and former vice president of research and programs at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “It shows how little regard her forebears had for blacks they murdered and mutilated and how their atrocities are still accepted in her culture,” Cummings said. In the Nov. 6 mid-terms, Hyde-Smith finished in a dead heat with former Mississippi congressman Mike Espy, an African American who was the Clinton administration Secretary of Agriculture, in a four-way Senate race. The two now will face each other in a runoff special election on Nov. 27. Hyde-Smith was appointed by Mississippi’s governor to fill the remaining two years of the Senate seat when Thad Cochran vacated it due to illness. As a Trump-endorsed candidate, she is in lockstep with the president’s agenda, one Cummings finds polariz-

ing. According to initial Pew Research data, in the 2018 mid-terms, African Americans voted at 90 percent for Democratic candidates; nine percent for Republicans. “African Americans and other people of color were motivated to turn out in record numbers for mid-term elections due to the desire to see Trump’s power curbed,” Cummings observed. “African Americans know exactly what Trump is and what he means for our future. Indeed, he has made no effort to hide his disdain for African Americans and other historically marginalized groups.” Some black analysts argue that a tax-cut-driven bump in personal income should prompt African Americans to vote Republican. But in Mississippi, in precincts where well-to-do and middle-class African Americans reside, Trump’s tax cuts had no measurable impact in the mid-terms, according to Charles Taylor, principal and founder of Peyton Strategies, LLC, based in Jackson, Miss. Though he has provided consulting services for the Espy campaign, he is not a spokesperson. “Precinct 83 is an affluent Black precinct in Jackson. Espy got 97.67 percent of the vote,” Taylor said. “In Precinct 84, 95 percent; Precinct 85, predominantly black middle class, 97.2 percent.” Raynard Jackson, a Black Republican, is president and CEO of a government affairs and public relations firm in Washington, D.C. who has worked on numerous Republican campaigns, including Ron DeSantis’ gubernatorial campaign in Florida against the Democrat candidate, Andrew Gillum, mayor of Tallahassee. Though not an ardent Trump fan, Jackson criticizes the Democratic Party for failing to deliver policies that enable African Americans to reach economic independence. “I carried this message across the state to Black communities, ‘how

much are you willing to pay to make history?’” Jackson explained. He says Gillum’s vow to increase the minimum wage and raise taxes to accomplish policy objectives make Florida’s costs for electing its first African American governor too high. “I’d ask a Black businessman, ‘Which of your employees are you going to lay off?’ They’d stop and say, ‘I hadn’t thought of it like that.’” Jackson derides African American candidates he claims are fearful of being openly vocal advocates for their own people. “Obama said he was going to be president of all the people. We hear it over and over from Black candidates, Gillum included. But if you speak to a Latino candidate, he will tell you exactly what he will do for the Latino community.” Kevin McNeir, editor of the Miami Times during the hanging chad controversy in the Bush-Gore 2010 election and now editor of the Washington Informer, finds some truth in Jackson’s assertions, but takes each candidate on his or her own merits. “I’m an independent. Democrats haven’t done a damn thing for me, including Barack Obama. I’ve been Black all my life, so I don’t care about your color. I’m not going to vote for you just because you’re Black.” Regardless of African American voters’ views on Trump, McNeir attributes the Democrats’ success in the mid-terms to their expansive field of qualified candidates. “From women, to Muslims, to Native Americans, to transgender, to veterans – all those numbers went up. The result is the most significant increase in Democratic House members since Watergate. That’s truly noteworthy. Now, Trump can spin it all he wants to.” But McNeir does believe Trump’s influence in Florida was significant because he elevated DeSantis’s visibility by “giving him a shoulder to lean on, much like with Supreme Court Judge Kavanaugh.

“Had Gillum been white, he would have won by 99 percent, he’s that much more qualified than DeSantis. “He was too progressive. And he was going to raise taxes. It was honest for him to say, but you don’t talk about raising taxes with white folk. He should have done what white folks do, lie; raise taxes once he got in.” Tax cuts were also in play in the predominantly Democratic state of Maryland, where Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ben Jealous, African American and a former NAACP president, was defeated by Republican incumbent Larry Hogan, who won a second term. African American Democrats crossed party lines, not en masse but in significant numbers, in part because they felt Hogan’s tax reduction initiatives had improved their personal finances. Yet, as The Baltimore Sun noted the day after the election, “No coattails: Maryland voters backed Republican Gov. Hogan, but also showed their disdain for Trump.” In exit polling, and across racial lines, voters rejected what they perceived as Trump’s divisiveness, apparently despite whatever personal gain they may have derived from his tax cuts. Charles Taylor described this year’s mid-terms in Mississippi as historic. “In the 2014 mid-terms, for all voters, we had 631,000 voters; in this one, close to 900,000.” Indeed, the Hyde-Smith versus Espy contest may be the defining moment for how black voters view the political landscape in 2020. Echoing Cummings, McNeir said, “The hatred that has been under the radar in America has gotten an invitation from Trump to express yourself.”. Editor’s Note: Khalil Abdullah, a veteran reporter with both the general market and the Black press, was former director of the National Association of Black State Legislators.

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from page 3 and grateful for the tremendous opportunity and outpouring of support shown to me. I understand that we have a long road ahead, and I am committed to restoring the confidence of my constituents and my colleagues in the upcoming term. I want to reiterate that I am extremely sorry for the pain I’ve caused, and I again ask both involved in the incidents reported for their forgiveness. A single day has not gone by in the past 19 years that I haven’t wished I took different actions to avoid such conflict. It is not lost on me that aggression of any kind is never okay. In addition to my previous statement to seek self-improvement, I’ll be reaching out to victim advocate groups to better understand how I can leverage my role as a legislator to ensure that victims have access to the services they need to feel safe. In my fourth and final term in office, I am dedicated to completing the work we began six years ago. With your help, I’ve sponsored 58 bills passed into law, as well as a successful Amendment to the Colorado Constitution to abolish slavery in all circumstances. I could not be more proud of all that we’ve accomplished

together and I am committed to the work you’ve once again elected me to do. I know we can continue to build a better future for communities throughout our district and across this state. Together we can move Colorado forward. Jovan E. Melton, State Rep. H.D. 41 State of Colorado

Seeking Community Support Editor: I have been selected to represent the city of Aurora in the 2019 United States of America’s Mrs. Colorado Pageant to be held on Jan. 13, 2019 at the Broadmoor Resort. The United States of America Pageants are designed to encourage women to strive to achieve their hopes, dreams, goals, and aspirations, while making them feel confident and beautiful inside and out and focus on women empowerment, promoting positive self- image and advocating a platform of community service. The United States of America’s Mrs. Colorado leads directly to the national United States of America’s Pageant held in Las Vegas. To help me achieve my goal of becoming the next United States of America’s Mrs. Colorado, I am in need of sponsors and would be honored to

receive public support. My entry fee is $700 and any contribution will be truly appreciated. For your support, I will make myself available for personal appearances at your place of business or special event. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Midterms Spotlight Rising Latino Power By Roberto Lovato Ethnic Media Services

Sylvia D. Waller Mrs. Aurora 2018-2019

Editor’s note: For more information or to make a donation, email Sylviadenisewaller@gmail.com. Denver Urban Spectrum Department E-mail Addresses Denver Urban Spectrum DenverUrbanSpectrum@urbanspectrum.net

Publisher Publisher@urbanspectrum.net Editor Editor@urbanspectrum.net News & Information News@urbanspectrum.net Advertising & Marketing Advertising@urbanspectrum.net

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

he full tally of the Latino vote on the mid-term election is not in yet, but the available information makes one thing clear: Latino power is rising. Preliminary reports indicate that Latinos eligible to vote now number a record 29 million (12.8 percent of all eligible voters). More than 11 percent of all voters nationwide in the midterm election were Latino in what analysts consider a major jump. Of the Latinos who voted, 69 percent voted for Democrats while 29 percent went for Republicans, according to exit poll data from the National Election Pool. Republican fears of the Latino voter are manifesting in the results. More than one out of every four Latino voters were first-time voters. Democrat excitement about the future, however, may not be realized fast enough for 2020, thanks in no small part to their continued lack of investment in the Latino vote. A majority of Latino voters reported that they hadn’t been contacted by a major party about voter registration. Despite this lack of attention to what some analysts call the Democrats’ “Latino problem,” Democrats nonetheless appear to be the benefactors of the rise in Latino voting power. A number of indicators appear to confirm the anti-Trump Latino moment some predicted. For example, there were spikes in the number of Latinos voting in battleground states and in key races, record Latino gains in Congress, an increase in Latino officials elected in 36 state races, a decrease in Latino Republican members of Congress, an increase in Latina participation. The anti-President Trump tilt is clear in congressional races. Democratic Latino members in the House jumped from 27 to 32 while remaining stable in the Senate. At the

same time, the number of Latino Republican House members dropped from seven to five. Similarly, mid-term results in Latino-heavy states also favored Democrats, with Latinos making up a major share of voters in competitive Senate races. In the Senate race in Texas, for example, 64 percent of Latino voters voted for Democrat Beto O’Rourke while 35 percent voted for Republican incumbent Ted Cruz In an unprecedented Latino turnout. An analysis of early voter turnout in some of Texas’ largest, most diverse counties found increases in Latino participation that matched levels seen in the 2016 presidential election (turnout in presidential races is usually far higher than during midterms). Local indicators in Texas yielded similar results. In El Paso County, the home turf of Democratic candidate Beto O’Rourke, voter participation jumped 168 percent from 2014. Hildalgo, Webb, Travis, Cameron and several other Texas counties also saw 100%-plus leaps in Latino voters. In Florida, a record 2.2 million Latinos registered to vote in 2018, up 8.4 percent over 2016. Of the Latinos who voted in the still-contested Senate race, 54 percent voted for Democrat Bill Nelson and 45 percent backed Republican Rick Scott, while in the contest for governor, 54 percent of Latinos voted for Democrat Andrew Gullum and 44 percent for Republican Ron DeSantis. Many analysts believe these results signal a continuation of the decline and fall of the conservative Cuban vote that once reigned in the Sunshine state. In Nevada the 67 percent of Latinos who voted for Democrat Jackey Rosen in the Senate race played a major role in defeating Republican Dean Heller, who lost by just under 50,000 votes. Las Vegas unions, many of which are more than 50 percent Latino, played definitive roles, registering tens of thousands of new Latino voters. And in California, whose Latino majority makes it the largest Latino state in the union, Latino voters boosted losing as well as winning candidates. Though he lost, State Senator Kevin de Leon beat the odds in his race against powerful incumbent U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who outspent him by millions but beat him by less than 10 percentage points, hardly the landslide defeat many predicted. Latino voters played a definitive role in de Leon’s campaign and rise. An indication as telling as any in the country are the results in the birthplace of Reagan Republicanism, the longtime GOP stronghold known as the “Orange Curtain.” Democrats in Orange County, with the help of a fast-growing Latino electorate, will

likely represent five of its seven congressional districts in a complete flipping of the political tortilla there. And in what might be taken as a preview of the future of the Latino vote with respect to the GOP, the startling results in Reagan country moved L.A. Times columnist Gustavo Arellano to write a piece titled “An Obituary for Od Orange County, Dead at Age 129.”. Editor’s note: Roberto Lovato, a member of the San Francisco Writer’s Grotto, recently completed a 3-year commitment as a Visiting Scholar at U.C. Berkeley’s Center for Latino Research.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

Trump Effect - Mid-Terms A Turning Point For Asian American Voters By Jaya Padmanabhan Ethnic Media Services

he 2018 mid-terms marked the pivotal moment when Asian Americans made a difference — as voters, candidates and historic winners. An Ethnic Media Services survey of Asian American voter turnout and growing involvement in the political process reveals the surging significance of these major ethnic groups’ participation in elections in various states. With a history of low voter engagement, Asian Americans have not been seen as an influential voting bloc. Despite 1.46 million new voters registered between 2012 and 2016, “voting rates among Asian American adult citizens (in the 2016 elections) remained low (49 percent) relative to whites and blacks (65.3 percent and 59.4 percent respectively), and was slightly higher than voting among Latinos (47.6 percent),” said Karthick Ramakrishnan, head of AAPI Data at UC-Riverside. What is known as the Trump effect appears to be changing that, judging from the 2018 election results. Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO, and Asian Americans Advancing Justice conducted a survey from Aug. 23 through Oct. 4 querying 1,316 Asian American registered voters about their political views. Almost half of the respondents said they were “more enthusiastic about voting this year” and 3 in 5 disapproved of President Trump’s performance. Indicators of growing civic engagement by Asian Americans fueled by the Trump effect: Exit polls indicate an overwhelming 77 percent of Asian Americans leaning Democratic — an increase of 4 percent since Trump assumed office. Filipino and Vietnamese Americans provided exceptions with 48 percent of both communities favoring the Republican Party. Jun Nucum from Manila Mail, a Filipino newspaper headquartered in the Daly City, said he saw “some unexpected Filipino losses” — notably that of Milpitas Mayor Jose Esteves, a Republican who had served six terms. In Orange County, Calif., Vietnamese Americans were viewed as making a difference in close Congressional races. The county has the largest Vietnamese population in the United States. Republican Janet Nguyen was re-elected to her state Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

senate seat in California’s 34th district, comprising Los Angeles and Orange counties. Gina Ortiz Jones, T.J. Cox, Kenneth Mejia, Cristina Osmena and Jennifer Zimmerman together represented the highest number of Filipino Americans running for Congress. Several Chinese Americans won their races in California. Fiona Ma will succeed John Chiang as Treasurer of California. Betty Yee will continue to serve as the State Controller. Kansen Chu, Evan Low and Phil Ting won their re-election bids for state assembly seats. While there are only a handful of people of Chinese origin in the U.S. Congress today, an increasing number are competing in local races. Asian names proliferated on the ballot in California, many running for school board or the city council. In Santa Clara County, Calif., where a third of residents have Asian roots, more than 50 candidates ran for office in 100 local races. In South San Francisco, a city where 1 in 3 residents is Asian, two Filipino Americans – Flor Nicolas and Mark Nagalese – were elected as new members to the City Council. The city of Oakland has its first Filipina American council member. The Indian American Impact Fund, a political action committee, reported that four Indian American incumbents — all Democrats — were re-elected to the U.S. house of Representatives. Seven first time Indian American candidates ran and lost for the House and one for the Senate. “Even though we weren’t able to win any new seats in Congress, we are tremendously proud of our candidates,” said Gautam Raghavan, executive director. The mid-terms saw historic Asian American victories. Two judicial and five legislative seats were won by Hmong candidates in Minnesota – the most ever. In New York, John Liu and Kevin Thomas became the first Asian Americans to be elected to the state Senate. Washington has My-linh Thai and Joe Nguyen become the first Vietnamese Americans to serve in the state legislature. Ram Villivalam became the first South Asian state senator of the Illinois State Assembly. Korean American Republican Young Kim won California’s 39th House district race to become the first Korean American woman in Congress. Sri Preston Kulkarni, a first-time Democratic Congressional contender in Texas’ 22nd district, spoke to voters in English, Hindi, Tamil, Mandarin and Vietnamese among other languages. His district has the highest

number of Asian American voters in Texas. Kulkarni told CNN he’d been advised not to focus on Asian American voters “because they either don’t vote or vote Republican.” Kulkarni ignored the advice. He lost. But he came within 15,000 votes of his Republican rival, Pete Olson — the closest any Democratic candidate has come in defeating the four-time incumbent. Editor’s note: Jaya Padmanabhan is a consultant for Ethnic Media Services, a columnist for the San Francisco Examiner and a member of the San Francisco Writers’ Grotto.

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

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See some of who graced the Mile High City in 2018...

Sheryl Renee Productions presented the Wilbourn Sisters Designs at the Field House Event Venue with a pop up shop and fashion show

Happy Birthday Charlie Burrell and Senator Rhonda Fields

Chic Street Man, Shake Anderson and Jameal Williams

Photos by Dean Allman Photography

Queen Sugar’s Actor Timon Kyle Durrett was special guest at the Colorado Beautillion-Cotillion annual beau and debutante ball.

Low Down Dirty Blues came to the Lone Tree Arts Center

Winter Park Jazz Festival

Eric Darius, Keith Sweat and Damien Escobar Goatfish with Julius Williams, Femi Kuti and the Honorable Wellington and Wilma Webb.

AROUND TOWN

Some of the entertainers at the Soiled Dove Underground

DENVER Colorado

2018 Kenny Lattimore, Kim Waters and Nick Collionne Goatfish Sings Djavan with Kassuri “Chi Chi’ Tafara, Rafael Orlando, Renato Brito, Jeroan Adams and Cephas Howard at the Clocktower Cabaret. Photo by Anthony Akridge

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2018

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