INCREDIBLE ARTISTS COMING TO THE LONE TREE ARTS CENTER!
lonetreeartscenter.org | 10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: New Orleans Songbook
Friday, February 7 at 7:30pm
Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS brings the soul of New Orleans and the spirit of Mardi Gras to this amazing evening, celebrating the composers and inspired songs of the Crescent City, the historic epicenter of jazz.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: New Orleans Songbook
Sweet Honey In The Rock®
Friday, February 7 at 7:30pm
Saturday, March 1 at 7:30pm
With their deep catalog of socially conscious music rooted in African American history and culture, Sweet Honey In The Rock® brings a moving and unique concert that fuses the possibilities of the human voice with a theatrical flair.
Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS brings the soul of New Orleans and the spirit of Mardi Gras to this amazing evening, celebrating the composers and inspired songs of the Crescent City, the historic epicenter of jazz.
PUBLISHER
Rosalind J. Harris
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
MANAGING and COPY EDITOR
Ruby Jones
COLUMNIST
Barry Overton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Christen Aldridge
Mona Cedillo
Elena Brown
Ruby Jones
Stacy Narine
Khaleigh Reed
SPECIAL PROJECTS ASSISTANT
Tanya Ishikawa
ART DIRECTOR
Bee Harris
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Jody Gilbert
Kolor Graphix
PHOTOGRAPHER
Ebonee Coleman
EB Pixs
DISTRIBUTION
Lawrence A. James
Denver Urban Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to spreading the news about people of color. Contents of Denver Urban Spectrum are copyright 2024 by Bizzy Bee Enterprise. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Denver Urban Spectrum circulates 20,000 copies throughout Colorado. 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 Denver Urban Spectrum at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. For advertising, subscriptions, or other information, call 303-292-6446, email publisher@urbanspectrum or visit the Website at www.denverurbanspectrum.com
Black History Month is a national commemoration of the vast contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout history. More than a celebration of innovation and prestige, the month-long period is an opportunity to explore the Black American experience – the culture, the struggle and the advancement.
After centuries of systemic and institutionalized oppression, Black History Month invites us to pause and reflect on how far the community has come.
This month’s issue is rooted in love, with a celebration of Black Love and a reminder that it is our connections and care for each other that will bring healing to our communities.
It also pays tribute to some of Colorado’s most remarkable residents, beginning with a brilliant artist whose stunning work has earned international acclaim. Thomas “Detour” Evans graces the cover of this February issue of Denver Urban Spectrum, his self-portrait painted with a radiant array of colors, like those featured on his murals around the Mile High City.
In addition to learning more about Detour and his brand-new installation at Denver International Airport, you’ll read about this year’s Black Ski Summit, presented by the National Brotherhood of Snowsports. You’ll also read about the history-making Travis Hunter, who finished his year at the University of Colorado Boulder with an incredible Heisman Trophy win.
We’ve featured an article about the 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor” to highlight the historic fight for labor rights, and captured stories about individuals and institutions striving to achieve socio-economic equity through ingenuity and hard work.
Our state is home to so many wonderful people working to create change. This month, we’ve announced 12 inspirational leaders whose impact has earned 2025 African Americans Who Make A Difference awards. I hope you’ll join us at our annual Black History Month event honoring these phenomenal changemakers on Feb. 27.
Sending Love!
Denver Residents Fight For and Win A New 155Acre Park
An Op-Ed By Wellington Webb
It’s been a long, eight-year battle, but the former Park Hill Golf Course (PHGC) in Northeast Denver will finally become the city’s largest new park in more than 100 years.
I applaud Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and his staff for negotiating a land-swap with land owner, Westside Investment Partners. Without exchanging tax dollars, the city will trade 145 acres of undeveloped industrial land in Adams County – near Denver International Airport – to the developers.
The reason these 155 acres will be a park for generations starts with the neighbors who fought to keep this open space from becoming a major housing development.
I applaud Woody Garsney, Penfield Tate, Sheila MacDonald and others from the grassroot organization, Save
Our Parks Denver (SOPD). With their leadership, Denver voters supported the preservation of a conservation easement, which my administration placed on the land in 1997 to protect the land from development.
In 2019, the developers purchased the land from a nonprofit after the golf course closed. SOPD fought the city, allowing the housing development to move forward with ballot initiatives.
Voters overwhelmingly defeated the city and developers three times, and made it clear that grass – instead of concrete – was more important for the Park Hill neighborhood.
Mayor Johnston stuck to his word after the 2023 election, despite initially supporting the developers. Once the land swap is approved by the Denver City Council and the Adams County Commissioners, the Denver Department of Parks and Recreation will remove fencing currently around the property and open the walking trails for public use, along with maintaining trees and possibly creating an area for dogs.
Community planners have already started to accept comments on what the neighborhood eventually wants in the park, which may include athletic fields and other recreation.
This deal is a massive win for Denver. This not only gives a new park to the city but also protects our other parks, including Washington Park, Sloan’s Lake and City Park, from future development without voter approval.
Mayor Johnston has assured me that he will now move to transform PHGC into a mo-
Continued on page 26
Ruby Jones Editor
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
ADetour den takes
rt is subjective – and yet, the beauty that radiates from each of Thomas “Detour” Evans’ murals is undeniable. His bold use of color draws the eye to each pronounced feature of his subjects, inviting onlookers to explore the stories behind their carefully curated designs. His ability to turn blank urban canvases into sprawling showcases of cultural history is a unique gift, and one that has transformed public spaces in Denver and around the world.
Detour is an artistic genius, but his contributions to society go far beyond painted memorializations. His prominence transcends surface-level appreciation of his artistry and calls attention to the powerful meaning behind his creations.
A true Renaissance Man, the mixed-media creator’s signature style is a nod to culturally significant moments in time, with themes of social justice, empowerment and influence embedded in each stroke of his brush.
Denver International Airport unveils meaningful new exhibit by renowned local artist.
The emergence of Detour’s work on walls around the Mile High City has given it a fresh, new energy; and now, travelers commuting through one of the world’s busiest airports will have a chance to experience his latest original work.
Infinity, and Beyond
On Wednesday, Jan. 22, Denver International Airport (DEN) unveiled Detour’s dynamic new installation in Concourse B, completing a three-year commission.
Initiated by the DEN Public Art and Exhibits Master Plan in 2021, a diverse selection panel comprised of cultural professionals and civic leaders meticulously reviewed proposals from local and international artists as part of a $1.5 billion concourse expansion program.
Detour’s proposal, distinguished by an innovative 3D rendering, demonstrated a thoughtful and visually-appealing fusion of community engagement and inclusivity. Following a comprehensive and competitive process, the pro
valuable,” says the virtuoso.
“When you’re going on a trip and packing for the trip, you bring things that you think you need; and you get to the place, you gain experience, you have fun, you collect things. Then, when you’re on the way back, you’ve got to figure out what you’re going to bring (because you can’t bring everything through TSA). So sometimes, you have to leave stuff.”
“There’s this space of economy that sort of happens. That’s something that I think everyone kind of goes through,” he continues.
He says that the idea of bags is something that everyone shares in common.
By Ruby Jones
posal was selected as the perfect addition to the newly renovated space.
Titled, “It’s Not What You Take, It’s What You Bring Back,” the captivating sculpture is composed entirely of upcycled luggage and memorabilia. From afar, the piece takes the shape of an infinity symbol, alluding to the fact that airports are always open; but upon approach, a singular loop is evident.
At the unveiling, Detour explained that the loop represents takeoff and landing – taking off into the morning and landing at night; taking off into the night and landing at sunrise.
Suspended near Gate B60, the 30-foot long, 20-foot wide installation weighs nearly three tons and features nearly 200 pieces in the majestic colors of Colorado’s sunsets. It symbolizes powerful messages of connection, community and the constant motion of life.
“It really just talks about the never-ending journey that we’re all on, and the bags that we use to carry the things that we hold
“No matter what race, color, creed, nationality, age, gender, whatever…you all have a bag to carry the things that you need, no matter how far you go back in time.”
The Process
Shortly after being announced as the winner of the public art commission, Detour turned to Colorado communities, extending an invitation for residents to become personally involved in the creative process. In an outpour of support, people from all walks of life donated rolling suitcases, vintage luggage, hat boxes, duffel bags, backpacks and more, filling his creative space with an abundance of personal effects.
“When people see public art, an artist gets paid a commission to create a piece. A lot of times people are like, ‘What is that?’ Why is that a thing?’” he says, explaining the intentionality behind his public request.
“Now, those stories that people have are able to be a part of the public art process.”
The community involvement served a two-fold purpose. In addition to promoting relatability, engaging people in the process was intended to raise awareness about the importance of funding for the arts.
Another added benefit to
using donated luggage was exposure to diverse stories from people from all walks of life.
“We’re all coming from someplace different, and every bag is different. Every bag has a story.”
During the collection process, Detour received a bag from a family who used it to travel to Las Vegas to pick up their adopted child. One man donated a bag that he used at age 10; he and his mother traveled the world with it following the death of his father.
“It’s immortalized, or in a way, encapsulated,” says the artist, reflecting on the heartfelt stories shared by strangers and friends alike. “It’s going to be a part of history in the future.”
To show how the process took shape in real-time, he documented the fabrication process from start to finish, beginning with a look at the enormous frame that shapes the sculpture, and ending with a series of posts about last-minute logistics.
“Shout out to Demiurge Design,” he added, captioning a video that showed the intense, overnight effort to hoist the massive piece at the end of a travellator.
What He Brought Back
Detour was born in Dayton, Ohio, but early travels and international experiences defined his life and made him the perfect person for the DEN commission.
In his youth, he was a “military brat” – a term characterized by frequent relocation and
exposure to different cultures. He traveled with his father, a career military officer who attended the U.S. Military Academy West Point, and his mother, a college professor from their hometown of Georgetown, South Carolina, to Granite City, Illinois; Bellevue, Illinois; and Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where he graduated high school.
“It’s fun to grow up moving, because when you’re older, you’re not as afraid of getting outside of your comfort zone,” he
says. You’re a little more adept when it comes to learning how to adapt, and learning the uniqueness of different cultures.”
Inspired by seeing so much of the world growing up, his path to becoming an artist began in a surprising way.
Originally, Detour wanted to attend West Point like his father. However, after applying for Officer Candidate School, he tore his LCL and his military aspirations were put on hold.
Continued on page 6
Add filtered water.
Cook with love.
If your home is enrolled in the Lead Reduction Program, be sure to use the water pitcher and filter provided for drinking, cooking and preparing infant formula. Boiling water does not remove lead, so filter first.
Detour
Continued from page 5
“It was kind of like the universe saying, ‘You’ve got to do the arts,” he laughs.
Instead of pursuing his artistic passions right away, he moved to Colorado and enrolled at the University of Colorado Denver. In 2008, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business, and in 2012, he earned a master’s degree in business administration, with an emphasis in marketing. He took the LSATs, with intentions of becoming a lawyer, but a 2014 trip to Tanzania redirected his goals and changed the trajectory of his life.
to do? What makes me happy?’ and the arts was one thing that, no matter what I was doing, I always went back to – drawing, creating stuff and being expressive. So that’s what I wanted to do when I came back.”
In all his lifelong travels, a Tanzanian walking stick and a renewed sense of purpose were the most meaningful things he’s ever brought back.
True to His Name
Inspired by the title of a breakdancing video he purchased while living in Germany, the name Detour signifies his creative journey and approach to art. It refers to the act of taking the road less traveled, embracing unexpected opportunities and not being afraid of detours or unconventional routes.
While living in Tanzania for approximately seven months in a village called Orkeeswa, he was inspired by the traditional lifestyle of raising livestock, farming and connecting with the earth. His precious walking stick was prepared by hand in a carving process he learned from the village’s children.
“That was really an eyeopening experience for me,” he recalls. “When I was there I was like ‘I don’t want to be a lawyer,’” and then you start to harp back on ‘What do I really want
Detour returned to a plethora of new buildings with inviting, white walls. Eventually, the little boy who sold his classmates hand-drawn pictures of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles grew into a man whose fascinating perspective is painted all over the city.
His murals decorate hotel parking structures, apartment complexes and office buildings in every corner of the Metro Denver area. He has completed commissions for major corporations like Netflix, Red Bull and Sprite, and has painted exquisite murals on the campus of his alma mater.
Some of his art depicts citywide celebrations – like the 2023 NBA Champion Denver Nuggets on Colfax and the Denver Broncos Hall of Fame mural at Empower Field –
while other pieces represent deeper meaning – like the portrait of George Floyd, who was killed by police during the Coronavirus pandemic, and John Lewis, a civil rights activist known for his legacy of “good trouble.”
With tributes to local community leaders and historical figures, Detour’s work extends to other cities around Colorado and the world. His murals, paintings and mixed media artwork incorporate augmented reality, music and other interactive elements, and can be found in Detroit, New Orleans, Milwaukee, Boston, Long Beach and more.
A Blank Canvas
In December, fans and supporters of Detour’s latest work rushed to purchase innovative shadow box prints containing mini replications of the luggage and other items used to create the large structure. Designed with specific travel perspectives and themes, the project enhances relatability and community connection, while
allowing individuals to showcase special, limited edition pieces of art in their homes.
Making him even more iconic as a multi-disciplinary artist, Detour is known for his authentic personality and collaborative spirit, frequently sharing his artistic journey and inspiring other artists to create from the heart.
He remains dedicated to enhancing the cultural tapestry of Colorado’s public spaces, in addition to enhancing artist experiences with “Art Tip Tuesdays.” The weekly Instagram segment provides helpful information about the business of being an artist –such as tax, intellectual rights and copyright considerations –and behind-the-scenes footage of his dynamic and experimental design process, with recommendations for supplies, fundraising and equipment to help artists succeed.
Now that the DEN installation is unveiled, Detour will travel to Mexico for the first time to participate in Mexico City Art Week. Upon his return, he will continue to scope out fresh, white walls and new projects for Denver residents to enjoy.
Meanwhile, millions of travelers will be greeted by the colorful reminder that life is in constant motion, and the task of deciding what to bring back.. Editor’s note: For more information about Detour, find him on Instagram @Detour303 or visit www.iamdetour.com
Left: Phil Washington and Detour Center: John Lewis Mural Right: Detour celebrates with his mother
CU Buffs Star Athlete Makes History with Heisman Win
By Ruby Jones
Hunter accumulated 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns as a wide receiver for the Buffs; and 32 tackles, 4 interceptions and 11 pass deflections as cornerback. Sanders’ coached the team to an improved 9-4.
Shining Bright
Travis Hunter is a sensational student athlete who made history in December as the first two-way player to win the most prestigious award in college football. After a strong finish to his collegiate career, the humble Heisman winner is headed to the next level, entering the 2025 National Football League (NFL) Draft with projections of being one of the league’s top picks.
Hunter’s road to Colorado and rise to fame began with a remarkable high school performance. Playing both offense and defense on the Collins Hill High School varsity football team in Suwanee, Georgia, he dominated the field.
He led Gwinnett County in interceptions and as a junior, earned the MaxPreps Georgia Player of the Year award, setting single-season records in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. During his senior season, he recorded over 1,000 yards on offense and despite an ankle injury, made 10 catches in the state championship game, with 153 yards, a touchdown and a forced fumble.
After helping Collins Hill win the first state title in the school’s history, he played in
the GEICO State Championship Bowl Series, with 10 catches and two touchdowns.
Hunter ended his high school career with a four-year record of 36-17, with a near-perfect 27-4 during his junior and senior seasons, gaining attention as the nation’s top-ranked, five-star recruit.
A Star is Born
Born in West Palm Beach Florida, Hunter’s passion for football was evident from an early age. He performed well both offensively and defensively, displaying natural talent, versatility and an instinctive understanding of the game.
With all eyes on his college selection, he committed to Florida State in March 2020. Then, in a surprising turn of events in December 2021, he announced his decision to switch his commitment to Jackson State University, where Deion “Prime Time” Sanders famously landed a position as head coach.
Sanders, a two-time Super Bowl Champion, Pro and College Football Hall of Famer, played in the NFL from 1989 to 2005, and is recognized as one of the greatest players in history. Wanting to prove that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are capable of producing phenome-
nal athletes, Sanders’ first collegiate head coaching role sparked the interest and allegiance of Hunter. The highest-ranked recruit to ever commit to an HBCU did a stellar job of proving the prominent figure right.
After one season at Jackson State and being named SWAC Freshman of the Year, both he and Sanders transferred to the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder).
Sko Buffs
During the 2022-2023 season, the CU Buffs’ record was an appalling 1-11. With recruits and transfers from all over the U.S. joining the team for the chance to be coached by one of the sport’s greatest, Hunter was the highestranked transfer. He burst onto the Colorado scene with a stunning showcase of skills at both cornerback and wide receiver, and Sanders improved the team’s record to 4-8 during the 20232024 season.
In his first season at CU Boulder, Hunter earned the Paul Hornung Award for his highlevel athleticism and versatility, becoming the 11th player in university history to receive the honor. He was the consensus choice for first-team AllAmerican and first-team Academic All American honors, maintaining an impressive 4.0 GPA throughout his first season.
After two seasons playing on both sides of the ball at Folsom Field, and a dynamic display of offensive and defensive strength, Hunter was named the winner of the 2024 Heisman Trophy.
“I was just thanking God the whole time. He put me in the right position to do what I needed to do,” he said, during the award ceremony.
“To the kids who look up to me, keep going. Never let anyone tell you what you can’t do. Keep your foot on the gas.”
Thanking his family and teammates, he continued, “Coach Prime told me this journey would be bigger than anything before. He believed in me, not just as a player but as a person.”
Hunter is the second person in CU Boulder’s history to win the prestigious Heisman award, 30 years after Rashaan Salaam in 1994. He is the 39th Black man to have won the accolade, cementing his name as a part of Black history and joining a long line of Black athletic excellence.
Choosing to forgo his senior season, the Heisman Trophy winner is considered one of the top prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Sports fans everywhere are excited to see which jersey he will wear next, and he will always be remembered in Colorado for his momentous success in Black & Gold.
It’s time for the Black Ski Summit, Y’all!
Anyone who’s been to the National Brotherhood of Snowsports’ (NBS) Summit knows that it’s a legendary event. Held this year in Keystone from Feb. 22 to Mar. 21, the annual fundraiser will support the organization’s 52year commitment to building a more inclusive environment on the slopes.
It’s where strangers become friends, and friends become family, united by the shared feeling of belonging in a terrain that traditionally lacks representation.
Soon, the crisp mountain air will be thick with excitement, as more than 1,200 people from around the world gather to enjoy a lineup of lively events, including a Sunday sermon and gospel concert, a sneaker ball and a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Soda Creek Valley.
On Feb. 23, an opening ceremony and parade will kick off the festivities; but more than a month-long party, the overall goal of the Summit is to promote diversity on ski teams, provide scholarships for young Black athletes and increase media representation.
A Collective Effort
NBS’ Summit is all about making an impact in the future of winter sports. The organization focuses on tangible actions and initiatives aimed at making the ski industry more inclusive. While reversing underrepresentation, the Summit paves the way for future Black Olympians and eliminates socio-economic barriers to outdoor exploration.
For nonprofit organizations with a shared mission of diversification, the Summit is an opportunity for collaboration that creates positive change.
“There’s a distinct picture people get when they think of skiers and snowboarders,” says 10-year Air Force Airman,
Breaking Barriers on the Slopes The Power of the Black Ski Summit
By Elena Brown
Michael Grant.
“It’s time to normalize us on the mountain.”
The former Young Adult Leaders Program manager currently serves as chair of the Colorado Springs chapter of the BIPOC Mountain Collective (BMC), an organization that strives to break the mold and defy stereotypes related to outdoor sports.
“A Whole Lot of Pepper”
With other chapters in Denver, Seattle, Canada, Washington DC and at Howard University, its members participate in meet-ups and group rides. The Colorado Springs chapter typically meets in Breckenridge, and is planning to end the 2025 ski season with a Spring fest at Loveland, ABasin, Granby and Winter Park.
NBS is organized into over 60 clubs across the United States and internationally. In Colorado, its clubs include Ski Noir 5280, Ski Ambassadors of Colorado Springs and Slippersn-Sliders (SnS), one of the organization’s founding clubs.
“My mom attended the first Summit, and skied until she was 84. She’s 95 now, “ says Roxanne Garlington, president of SnS. “So, I have 18 more years of skiing.”
The former ski instructor has attended 43 Summits, and oversees the Ski For Kids, Inc. program, which introduces the joy of skiing to inner city youth and families who would otherwise be limited by the expense of the sport.
The idea for NBS resulted from a meeting between Ben Finley and Art Clay in 1972. Both presidents of Black ski clubs, they agreed to bring their clubs together with others around the country.
The first gathering – dubbed, “A Happening” – attracted approximately 350 skiers. Year one of the Summit was hosted in Aspen, and two years later, the Sno-Gophers Ski Club hosted over 750 skiers in Sun Valley, Idaho. The numbers kept growing each year, and in 2023, the Anniversary Summit was held in Vail, with at least 50 clubs and 2,000 people present.
In addition to club members, “Renegades” or unregistered attendees, show up to the annual events.
That’s a whole lot of pepper on the mountain…but it’s not always like that during the season.
“It’s tiring being ‘The Only,’” says Quentin Griffin, a self-proclaimed renegade who has attended the NBS Summit for the last 15 years.
Acknowledging that organized clubs and NBS tend to cater to an older generation, he
points out that the cost of his favorite sport –snowboarding –can be restrictive.
“$400 to $500 is really pricey. Younger people can’t afford a whole week off; and registration; and hotels.”
To mitigate the expense, he partnered with Ski Noir 5280, a local group cofounded by Quincy Shannon, that relies on partnerships, sponsorships, membership and grassroots fundraising efforts to eliminate financial barriers and increase inclusivity.
“Last year was one of the best times I had with Ski Noir. There were about 15 Black guys – all snowboarders – riding at Vail…there was no pressure to join a club or get some fancy jacket. It was good to just hang out,” Griffin reflects.
The organization provides discounted lift tickets and season passes, inviting its nearly 100 members to “Slide Thru Saturday” trips at Colorado’s best ski resorts. It also provides free and low-cost outdoor gear donated by community members, retailers and ski resorts themselves.
Shannon, who started the ski club to qualify for discounted Summit passes and, most importantly, to further his own mission of diversifying the snowsport landscape in his home state, now serves on the NBS Board of Directors.
“It’s isolating in the mountains. It’s one of the few places where I can go days without
seeing someone who looks like me, or someone who understands my reality,” Shannon states in a commercial by Verizon’s TestForce.
“Diversifying the mountains is so important because it allows people to know that this space that you see is accessible to all.”
From Bunny Slopes to Black Diamonds
The NBS Summit celebrates Black athletes and figures in the world of winter sports, showcasing role models for the next generation, with events for all ages.
“Our founders are in their 80s, and they should be honored as often as possible while they still ski the slopes with us,” says NBS President, Henri Rivers.
An engineer and project manager by trade, Rivers began skiing as a child, and in 2003 he became the NBS National Team Coach. From 2008 to 2016, he served as an administrator for the organization’s Olympic Scholarship Fund, helping to increase the national team to 34 athletes as a competition director.
Currently, Team NBS’ athletes represent all four of the organization’s regions. Keagen Supple, one of the top athletes, is competing at the Revolution Tour, NorAM and European Cups.
“When they say Black people don’t ski, I like to show them videos of my boys,” says his mother, Karlyn Supple.
“We got involved with NBS as my son’s competition level kept increasing, and we needed some financial assistance for training and travel to competitions.”
NBS provides scholarships to help with training, coaching, race fees and travel costs, raising approximately $200,000 annually. The funds make snow sports accessible for athletes like Lenim “LJ” Henriquez of the Eastern Regions’ Thrillseekers Ski Club of Hollis, New York.
At 16, Henriquez is the youngest competitor in the 2025 XGames, and his hard work is paying off with a Red Bull Team membership and an appearance in the latest Warren Miller film, 75
For young people just starting out, the ability to see successful people who look like them in traditionally underrepresented spaces can be a powerful motivator, inspiring them to pursue new interests and hobbies.
NBS’ focus on inclusion in a traditionally white-dominated sport is crucial for fostering a diverse and welcoming community. According to NBS, Black snowsport participants represented just 1% of skiers/snowboarders during the 2023-2024 season.
Join the Party
Keystone Resort will host the NBS Summit for the third time, with races, fundraisers, happy hour events and activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, sleigh rides and access to the world’s largest mountain top snow fort. To support the organization’s mission, the resort has committed to donating to its scholarship fund.
Online registration for the 2025 NBS Summit is selling out fast, but those interested in attending may be able to secure a late registration or register onsite, with discounts available for seniors, young adults and half-week registrations.
The Black Ski Summit is the perfect mix of adventure, camaraderie and relaxation, creating moments immortalized by shared stories and inspiring all generations to embrace the chill. Bring on the winter wonderland and snowy fun! .
Editor’s note: For more information about NBS or donate to support its programs, visit www.nbs.org
Reining in Inequality
Ranch,” and at four years old, Brown began riding lessons.
“Our ranch is where my love for horses started,” she recalls. “My mother and sister showed horses; it was natural for me to start riding as well.”
One Woman’s Mission to Diversify the Equestrian World
By Christen Aldridge
The National Western Stock Show rolled into town last month along with the MLK Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo of Champions, and other events that highlighted western heritage and entertainment. Attendees travel from all over the United States to participate in the fun, but for many, the annual experience is a far cry from their everyday lives.
The stock show offers a glimpse into rural living, but for those who live in an urban environment, barriers such as cost and distance prevent regular outdoor recreation, especially when it comes to equestrian activity.
Emma Brown is working to diversify equestrian sports and
activities while creating oppor tunities for marginalized communities to engage with the outdoors. Her company, EB Outdoors, is increasing access and providing education about the history of horse riding among people of color.
Committed to dismantling socio-economic barriers, the long-time horseback rider and trainer knows first-hand how exclusive and isolating equestrian sports can be.
A Heart for Horses
When she was three years old, Brown relocated to Colorado from San Jose, California. Her adoptive parents purchased a ranch in Longmont, satisfying her mother’s desire to learn all about the agricultural offerings in their new state. They named the property the “Brown Family
Being immersed in the rural terrain ignited a love and passion for outdoor activity, but because the ranch was home to horses and other animals, it required a lot of work. Still, the rolling plains provided plenty of opportunity to roam around and practice riding.
Trained in English riding as a show jumper, she was advancing in her lessons and beginning to participate in more shows when her love for horse riding took an unexpected turn. Eventually, she developed a deep disdain for the sport.
Brown was often the only person of color in the equestrian spaces she occupied, and when she noticed that she was being treated differently, she stepped away from her beloved pastime.
“The very thing I grew to love became toxic. I had trainers and teachers who were rude to me because of the color of my skin. I had no one who looked like me in any of the spaces I was in, and it created a burnout for me emotionally. I had to take a break,” she laments.
Back in the Saddle
From ages 8 to 11, she stopped riding altogether. Then, when one of her trainers transitioned to another barn, Brown began to learn the Western style of riding, which ultimately exposed her to more diversity.
“My trainer’s daughter was married to an African-American man, and they had kids. Their kids were the closest people I met that looked like me,” she says.
As she studied the history of her favorite sport, she learned about Black cowboys and discovered a safe equestrian space, away from all the racism that soured her early experiences.
At age 16, Brown began teaching horseback riding les-
sons, as well as training clients for Western and English competitions.
A Great Epiphany
Brown continued teaching and training while attending the University of Colorado Boulder. She was a member of the Multicultural Leadership Scholarship Program, which allowed her to gain a new perspective of her life and love of horse riding.
Living on a farm and competing in horse shows at an early age was a privilege; but, it came with the disadvantage of being sheltered from the reality that equestrian sports are not accessible to all. She learned that barriers prevented some people – particularly people of color – from ever having the chance to ride.
One benefit of the scholarship program was that it allowed her to spend time with other people of color who shared her love for the outdoors. She studied the history of different cultures and their relationships with horses, and developed a greater awareness of her purpose and potential as an agent of change.
Galloping Toward Her Dreams
After college, Brown worked at Broken Arrow Ranch in Gold Hill, leading trail rides and working as fly fishing guide. She transitioned to Budges Wilderness Lodge where she continues to offer fly fishing and horseback riding instruction to guests.
In 2021, she founded EB Outdoors, with a mission to diversify the outdoor world and the sport of equestrian. With a team of equestrians, ranch hands and wranglers, she moved to Windy Creek Ranch in Longmont, running a full care boarding and training facility with up to 30 horses. Though it didn’t initially align with her diversification goals, she was able to raise the funds to do more meaningful work.
“It was worth it,” she says.
Finding Her Stride
In December 2023, EB Outdoors transitioned back to her family ranch. Now, the company partners with nonprofit organizations, such as Colorado Treks, to provide outdoor and equestrian exposure to youth, families and communities of color. To mitigate the high cost of riding lessons, EB Outdoors offers a scholarship program that covers four free lessons. If students continue to express an interest in riding, they can do so at a reduced rate.
“We visit three to five schools a year, bring horses to the schools and give trail rides to the students in the parking lot,” Brown says.
The partnership with Colorado Treks is a year-long program that offers a chance for students and their families to take a wilderness trip at the end
of the summer. This year, Budges Wilderness Lodge will serve as an outfitter for the wilderness trip.
“The students go to the ranch for what we like to call ‘Ranch Days,’ and learn to ride, groom and pack the horses. They learn how to fish and hunt so they are prepared for their three-week trip in August.”
Taking Life By the Reins
When she was a teenager, Brown trained a Mustang named Drifter, who many thought was unteachable.
People gave up on Drifter, but she didn’t. She recognized something special in the stubborn horse, and her dedication proved to be worthwhile.
“I saw myself in that horse,” she says. “He just needed time and attention.”
That Mustang is one of the 18 horses she continues to work with.
Senior Living
“It is a full-circle moment for me. Drifter was a horse that changed my life as a child, and now he is doing the same with the kids we work with.”
Brown goes the extra mile to educate her clients about the rich history that Black, Indigenous and other people of color have with horses.
In addition to offering beginner to intermediate trail rides and riding lessons for youth and adults, she serves as a consultant for the equestrian
program at Lincoln Hills Cares, and is a wrangler and trail guide with Wanderland Outdoors.
From early beginnings as a little girl who loved horses, the equestrian enthusiast is proud of the work she has done to close the opportunity gap between marginalized groups and the outdoors..
Editor’s note: To learn more about EB Outdoors, visit www.eboutdoors.com/
systemic oppression while fostering collective growth and healing.
Black love reminds us of the beauty and richness of life.
Black life. It replaces negativity with hope, and highlights stories of generational strength, devotion and enduring commitment.
Black History Month is the perfect time to acknowledge the importance and meaning of Black Love – especially ahead of Valentine’s Day, a time to cherish those we hold dear.
More than just romance, Black Love encompasses the
bonds of connection and care within the Black community. It is an affirmation of identity, unity and strength that extends to familial love, friendship and communal solidarity.
Historically, Black Love has been a powerful tool of resistance, emerging as a means of survival and defiance against
The existence of Black Love can be traced back to the origins of humanity and the earliest recorded evidence of consciousness – as long as there were Black people, it can be safely assumed that there was Black Love.
When first brought to America, enslaved Africans were stripped of their humanity and torn apart from their families, severing the bonds of love and kinship through brutality and hate. In the face of these atrocities, Black people found ways to create and nurture connections, finding community in each other and using love to strengthen resilience.
Black Love was a revolutionary act.
It helped guide generations to new terrains, and preserved a connection to those who stayed. It was embodied through the struggle for equality and was an essential element of liberation.
With modern media perpetuating negative stereotypes of Black relationships, Black Love defies every attempt to devalue family structures and friendships. It counters narratives that diminish the depth and diversity of the Black experience. Choosing to love and uplift each other in the face of inequity and persecution is a powerful form of resistance.
“Black love is about community. There’s something very beautiful about being around people who have the same shared experience. We’re so beautiful in the panorama of the world…I wish that we would all remember who we are – descendants of where we come from – because without Black Love in the world, there would be no love.”
-Hanifah Chiku
“I’ve been married to Albert Mason for 46 years, and love is the foundation of our lives – the sharing; the support; the understanding; the arguments. Just knowing that we understand each other. We can look at each other face to face – even disagree – and still, know that we’re truly in love and our foundation is based strongly on us being us.”
-Stephanie Mason
Black Love holds the power to heal. It fosters trust, understanding and mutual growth. Within the broader community, it builds networks of support and solidarity. By valuing and practicing love, the Black community can create spaces to thrive, dream and rebuild.
“The strength and beauty of our community and really understanding that our Black Love uplifts one another, it serves as a beginning of hope. Honoring our unique stories and creating love that transcends time and obstacles brings hope.”
-Shay Johnson
Black Love is a continuous thread that weaves through generations, strengthening the fabric of our shared history. By honoring it – in all its forms –we are empowered to create a stronger, more vibrant future for each other, and for ourselves.
Celebrating Black Love in all its forms affirms the richness of
Dawoud Bey: Street Portraits is organized by the Denver Art Museum. Support is provided by the donors to the Annual Fund Leadership Campaign and the residents who support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). Promotional support is provided by 5280 Magazine and CBS Colorado.
Each year, Denver Urban Spectrum recognizes individuals who are making a difference within Colorado communities and in the lives of others. After being nominated by their peers, a group of remarkable change makers undergoes a rigorous selection process based on service impact and achievement. This year, 12 men and women were selected from a group of 32 noteworthy nominees. In addition to their enormous efforts to affect positive change within their communities, they explained the motivation behind their civic and social engagement, provided suggestions for how to best address challenges facing the Black community and shared how they would like to be remembered. By
Al Gardener
•Executive Director of General Services, City & County of Denver
•Adjunct Instructor, University of Denver Graduate School of Technology
A A l Gardner is a champion of diversity in public service and technology who works to advance municipal operations with a steadfast commitment to innovation and inclusion. His leadership in Denver is defined by his efforts to create equitable systems and foster emerging talent.
facing the Black community, and would like to see the creation of policies that promote sustainable inclusivity.
Remembered as a leader who made a tangible impact, Gardner’s legacy is one of authenticity, empowerment and a dedication to fostering systemic change and inspiring others to serve.
Carlotta Todd
•Owner, Splash Rite Swim School
•Founder, Splash Rite Foundation
be unable to afford private swim lessons.
Todd’s efforts extend beyond lessons and books. Recognizing access to water-related resources and subsequent water-related deaths as challenges facing the Black community, she created a nonprofit foundation that secures grants and partnerships. She also hopes for the creation of legislation requiring water safety lessons in schools.
Over the past year, he has implemented cost-saving measures and advocated for inclusive procurement practices, directly benefiting the Black community. As a mentor, he creates pathways for career advancement and recognition, ensuring that minority professionals in Denver have opportunities to thrive.
In the last five years, he has served on the Denver Civil Service Commission and as Board President of the Citizens Oversight Board, where he worked to enhance accountability in law enforcement. His advocacy through the African American Commission and his leadership in technology have empowered individuals and strengthened the community.
Gardner’s philosophy is rooted in service. He believes in creating environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed. Looking to the future, he aims to continue championing minority-owned businesses, mentoring leaders and advancing equitable policies that benefit all. He recognizes systemic equities in education, economic opportunity and representation as challenges
C C arlotta Todd is an aquatics facility operator, swim coach and author who has transformed lives by teaching essential swimming skills and fostering diversity in aquatics. She is dedicated to promoting water safety and providing swimming opportunities for underserved communities.
Her work addresses disparities in water safety, particularly within the Black community, where drowning rates are significantly higher. She is best known for her free and low-cost swim lessons, public speaking engagements and her water safety children’s book series, including “The First Splish Splash” and “Splish Splash Safely,” featuring the animated water safety guru, Pang the Penguin.
She recently launched an innovative online course designed to help individuals overcome their fear of water and learn life-saving swimming skills, even without pool access. Her efforts have reduced barriers to aquatic education for individuals who would otherwise
Her vision for the future includes developing water safety toys and completing her water safety and pool adventure book series, all centered around promoting inclusivity and safety in swimming.
With a legacy of compassion and empowerment, her unwavering dedication to saving lives and enriching communities through water safety and education makes her a remarkable member of Colorado’s Black community.
D D r. Carolyn Love is recognized for her expertise in fostering equity, belonging and meaningful dialogue. Through her work, she has empowered communities by facilitating critical conversations and serving as a thought partner for Black women, especially those focused on social change.
In the past year, she has amplified the often-overlooked contributions of Black women. She has mentored and referred business to
Ruby Jones
Black entrepreneurs, ensuring that their work is recognized and supported. Her commitment to fostering equity extends to her nonprofit, Black Women Solutionaries, which highlights the pivotal roles Black women play in education and social justice. Collaborating with the Iliff School of Theology, she has hosted impactful panel discussions on K-12 education and Critical Race Theory.
She challenges mainstream narratives that trivialize the Black community, and advocates for diverse perspectives that highlights its uniqueness.
Looking forward, Dr. Love seeks to create projects that unite diverse communities and promote sustainable change. Her vision includes using tools like targeted universalism to address systemic challenges and facilitate impactful conversations.
Her legacy is one of compassion, thoughtfulness and an unwavering dedication to equity and justice. She hopes to be remembered as someone who mastered the art of forgiveness while inspiring meaningful progress in her community.
Dianne Myles CEO, Human Focused Media
D Dianne
Myles is a storyteller, advocate and philanthropist whose work reflects a deep commitment to equity and empowerment. She has produced Emmy-winning content that amplifies diverse community voices, and spearheaded initiatives that have left an indelible mark on the Denver community. Continued on page 16
Continued from page 15
From producing impactful shows on mental health, to raising over $1 million for Black nonprofits and initiatives like Denver’s first Black Women Loan Fund, her work consistently fosters connection and inspires action.
Showcasing her dedication to economic equity, she played a pivotal role in reigniting the AJL Foundation’s reparations grant, distributing $450,000 to Black-led nonprofits in 2023.
Over the past five years, she has celebrated Black excellence through storytelling and innovation, awarding over $100,000 in prizes at Denver Startup Week. She also produced the “Open for Black Girl Magic” exhibition at the Denver Art Museum, and launched the series I Am More Than, amplifying diverse voices across the city.
A proud Black woman and active community leader, Myles honors the legacy of her ancestors while creating pathways for future generations and helping to resolve systemic racism, economic inequality and educational disparities. She hopes for policy change, reparations and increased access to resources, and views storytelling as a vehicle to create momentum for transformative action.
Looking ahead, she envisions establishing funding models to elevate Black voices in media and retiring as a professor, mentoring the next generation of storytellers. She hopes to be remembered as a joyful, creative force – “sunshine in human form” – who used her talents to inspire change, connect communities and leave a lasting legacy of love.
Kent Ware II
(aka DJ Fa’Dorah)
•Creative, Artist & Entertainer
K K ent Ware II, known as DJ Fa’Dorah, is a dynamic artist, entertainer and community leader who curates nostalgic, one-of-akind R&B, old-school and underground soul musical experiences that resonate across generations.
As the first official locker room DJ for the University of Colorado Boulder football team under Coach Deion Sanders, he plays an integral role in fostering a sense of home and creating cultural connections for players whose collegiate experience has taken them far from their roots.
Beyond his artistry, he is an advocate for service and mentorship. For over a decade, he has volunteered at Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center during Thanksgiving and Kwanzaa celebrations. He also engages with Denver’s Black community at events such as the Black Arts Festival and the Juneteenth Music Festival. His groundbreaking performance as the first DJ to headline the Cherry Creek Arts Festival exemplifies his dedication to bridging communities through music.
A former state-ranked football player, DJ Fa’Dorah mentors young athletes and shares his craft with aspiring DJs, empowering them to turn their passions into careers. He recognizes disparities in education, economic opportunities, healthcare access, criminal justice and media representation as challenges facing the Black community, and attempts to alleviate issues through unification and collective action.
He sees music as a powerful means of resistance and a symbol of resilience that can elevate lives. Aspiring to be remembered as a community advocate, he makes a personal effort to pour into those around him to create a ripple effect of inspiration.
Eboni Boneé Coleman
•Owner,
EB Pixs
EEboni Boneé Coleman is a multimedia artist, storyteller and advocate dedicated to cultural preservation and community empowerment. Specializing in photography, videography and digital media services, she amplifies Black voices through creative expression and non-fiction storytelling.
She serves as the advisory board secretary for the Stiles African American Heritage Center, and is a co-founder of Black Pride Colorado, which promotes and celebrates Black LGBTQIA2+ voices. She is also a member of Black Women Photographers and Brown Girls Doc Mafia, which supports diverse representation in visual media.
By providing affordable multimedia and marketing services, she is helping to expand the reach and influence of Black-owned businesses and organizations across Colorado. Her acclaimed multimedia series, We Believe in God, Too, has gained recognition through collaborations with DCPA and Rocky Mountain PBS, as an exploration of the intersections of queerness, spirituality and Black culture.
Inspired by her late father, Reggie Coleman, a community leader honored by Tiger Woods for his dedication to education and empowerment, her commitment to service runs deep. She actively participates in initiatives like the Lavender Hill Cultural District and Colorado Council of Black Nurses, while advancing public art projects like the Colfax Bus Rapid Transit Public Art Project.
Looking ahead, Coleman aspires to produce feature documentaries that highlight Black women’s stories, and to create an international residency for Black media artists. She recognizes mental health, systemic racism and dis-
crimination as challenges facing the Black community, and hopes for the normalization of mental health conversations to shift narratives and change lives.
Her enduring legacy as a catalyst for transformative stories and opportunities will empower communities and generations to come.
Jason Shankle
•Founder & CEO, Inner Self & Wisdom
•Founder & Executive Director, Black Mental Health & Wellness Coalition
•Owner, Book King Publishing, Inc.
JJason
Shankle is a prominent therapist, author and activist who advocates for mental health awareness and cultural healing while empowering Black voices through literature.
Best known in the Denver community for his work as a therapist, professor and community activist, the Park Hill native takes pride in operating a private therapy practice in his hometown, where he has helped numerous clients navigate trauma and embark on healing journeys.
His contributions to the community include the “Bridge is Here” project, a nonprofit initiative that celebrates the cultural heritage of Black and African communities. He also offers free workshops on topics such as healing family-inherited trauma and addressing racial battle fatigue. Recognizing a lack of collective economics and healing as the biggest challenges facing the Black community, he believes that collective healing and economic empowerment are essential to uplifting the Black community. His efforts to address family trauma, substance use and mental health are intended to help the community grow in unity.
Looking to the future, Shankle aims to secure additional funding for The Black Mental Health and Wellness Coalition to support
free, transformative workshops for community members. He also plans to continue writing impactful books on Black mental health and education.
Jason hopes to be remembered as a fearless, compassionate leader who dedicated his life to empowering and liberating his community while inspiring others to embrace their purpose and potential.
Lorraine Hoover
•Founder & CEO, The Raymond Rountree Jr. Foundation
LLorraine Hoover’s advocacy is rooted in personal loss, having transformed the tragedy of losing her brother to an opioid overdose into a mission of hope and healing. As founder and CEO of The Raymond Rountree Jr. (RRJR) Foundation, she is dedicated to empowering individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.
Looking ahead, Hoover envisions establishing a permanent recovery and resource center in Denver to provide holistic services such as sober-living access, treatment resources and mentorship programs for youth.
Her legacy is one of empowerment, resilience and healing, and she hopes to be remembered as a passionate advocate, a bridgebuilder fostering hope and a relentless voice for individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder.
Marcus Weaver •CEO, The People’s Pickles Executive Director, Lower the Barrier Colorado
M M arcus Weaver is a transformative leader dedicated to uplifting marginalized communities.
She champions recovery support services, housing initiatives and programs that reduce stigma surrounding addiction. Her efforts include the creation of initiatives that increase access to rent assistance and public transportation support for sober living residents. She also hosts quarterly fundraising events to raise awareness about addiction and promote healthy lifestyles.
Over the past five years, Lorraine has worked tirelessly to address systemic challenges facing the Black community by securing grants for housing assistance, coordinating health and wellness events and cultivating partnerships with local organizations. Recognizing that access to culturally competent care, affordable housing, healthcare equity and destigmatization of substance abuse are vital to overcoming barriers, she remains committed to creating sustainable solutions for underserved populations.
Renowned for his commitment to providing vocational training and job placement for individuals overcoming incarceration, homelessness and addiction, he has helped hundreds of individuals rebuild their lives through workforce training and mental health support.
A survivor of the Aurora Theater shooting, Marcus has channeled personal adversity into advocacy, entrepreneurship and social justice. His book, “Chosen to Forgive,” addresses themes of forgiveness and growth after early childhood trauma.
His advocacy work has shaped policies like Ban The Box, automatic record sealing and the repeal of the death penalty, which address systemic barriers disproportionately affecting communities of color. As the executive director of Lower the Barrier Colorado (LTBCO) his efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the Juneteenth Verizon Dream Big Award.
He is a member of the My Brother’s Keeper initiative and a graduate of the Black Resilience
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Continued from page 17 in Colorado Fund’s Executive Directors of Color program who supports youth, individuals experiencing homelessness and people working to advance their lives. His continuous stewardship has had a positive impact on communities across Colorado.
Looking to the future, he envisions expanding LTBCO and The People’s Pickles into major cities while creating opportunities for sustainable change and continuing to combine social enterprise with community impact. This year, he will join The Barton Institutes’ 2025 Pathways Program, where he will work with mentors to initiate bold visions for social change.
With influences from several of Colorado’s inspiring community leaders guiding his footsteps, he hopes to be remembered as a resilient survivor and advocate who used his experiences to inspire and empower others.
Rakeis Timm
•Founder, CommunityKeis, “Black Spaces to Check Out” & Community Meets
and collaboration. She also serves as a member of the Urban League Young Professionals Metro Denver’s Board of Directors, contributing to initiatives that drive meaningful change.
In 2024, she launched “Community Meets,” a project designed to blend Black history education with economic empowerment by supporting local Black enterprise, an initiative that aims to circulate the Black dollar while strengthening community connections.
Committed to addressing challenges such as collaboration and cultural pride, Timm believes in the power of unity and shared history to inspire collective success. Her vision for the future includes expanding holistic wellness spaces and establishing trusted resources for mental health and empowerment in Black and Brown communities.
Black women. By hosting events like Movies in the Park and an annual Children’s Gala, CHIC creates spaces of joy, connection and celebration.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization mobilized resources to support those most affected, raising over $77,000 to provide critical aid. Its key achievement has been the establishment of an endowment fund that prioritizes long-term sustainability for Black-led organizations, making it a pillar of support, progress and advocacy.
Recognizing inequities in education, the criminal justice system, enterprise, homeownership and healthcare, Cooper played a pivotal role in passing the Justice for Black Coloradans Act in 2024, a historic piece of legislation that lays the groundwork for reparative justice.
deeply involved as a community doctor through the Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC), where she continues to educate and connect individuals with vital health resources.
Best known for her tireless advocacy and innovative health outreach initiatives, she conducts health screenings in barbershops and salons and provides mentorship to aspiring medical professionals. Her leadership was pivotal during the COVID-19 pandemic. She gave educational presentations, authored informative blogs and coordinated the distribution of personal protective equipment and vaccines to underserved communities.
R R akeis Timm is a wellness entrepreneur, yoga instructor and community advocate dedicated to uplifting Black and Brown communities through connection, healing and empowerment. As the founder of Charismatic Movement Yoga, she promotes wellness with the tagline “Let’s Heal Together,” offering yoga and wellness classes that prioritize inclusivity and mental health. She has been instrumental in creating spaces for collective healing, including the popular summer “Yoga in the Park” series, which celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2025.
Her weekly “Black Spaces to Check Out” feature on Instagram and YouTube is widely recognized for its promotion of local cultural events and Black-owned businesses, fostering community pride
She hopes to be remembered as an authentic, joyful leader who encouraged her community to heal, connect and support each other; and as someone who helped continue the art of storytelling so that excellence in the Black community is acknowledged for generations to come.
Sade’ Cooper
•Founder, Collaborative Healing Initiative within Communities (CHIC)
•Lead Visionary, Justice for Black Coloradans
SSade’ Cooper is a dedicated advocate who advances opportunities for Black women and youth in Colorado through education, workforce reentry and community-building initiatives.
Under her leadership, Collaborative Healing Initiative within Communities (CHIC) has become a transformative force, addressing systemic challenges such as the school-to-prison pipeline and economic mobility for
She hopes to see an expansion of reparative solutions in the future, along with investments in policies and programs that drive strategic collaboration and lasting progress. Her unwavering faith and dedication drive her mission to create equity and empowerment for Black Coloradans, in addition to early examples of community advocacy she witnessed from her grandparents.
She hopes to be remembered as a “child of God, first,” and a compassionate, faith-driven leader whose life and work reflected a commitment to justice, community and lasting systemic change for generations to come.
Terri Richardson, MD
•Retired Internal Medicine Physician Colorado Black Health Collaborative
D D r. Terri
Richardson is a retired internal medicine physician who has dedicated her life to improving health outcomes and advocating for the Black community in Denver. With a clinical practice spanning 34 years, she remains
One of her recent accomplishments was her significant role in helping to pass Denver’s Flavor Ban legislation, a public health initiative to reduce harmful tobacco use. Her efforts exemplify her commitment to health equity and proactive community leadership.
Inspired by her upbringing in Northeast Denver and her parents’ teachings to give back, Dr. Richardson considers it her Godgiven duty to serve. She identifies systemic racism and anti-Blackness as critical challenges facing the Black community, and believes in the power of collective advocacy to address disparities in health, education and employment.
She hopes to be remembered as a humble servant leader who dedicated her life to uplifting others. Her future goals include documenting the legacy of Dr. Charles Blackwood and building initiatives that support Black health and empowerment. .
The Retto Show
Denver’s New Sports Podcast Scores Points and Delivers a New Perspective for Fans.
By Stacy Narine
The Mile High City is home to every major sports team – the Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Rockies, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Rapids plenty of prep sports and clubs and soon, a recently announced National Women’s Soccer League team. The history and legacy of Colorado’s sports culture runs deep; and a new, Denver-based podcast is working its way up the leaderboard, with a fresh, dynamic approach to reporting it all.
coworker who offers a unique perspective of the local media and entertainment industry.
Having released an up-tempo R&B single titled “Risky Lover” in 2000, the multifaceted artist agreed to coproduce the show, adding professional expertise to Walker’s youthful energy.
refreshing and more relatable way.
“You don’t need to be Shannon Sharpe or Marcus Spears to talk sports,” Walker points out. “Our goal is to make the show relatable for everyday fans – people just like us.”
McNeil, who has worn many hats in his career from musician to radio voice actor and minister, adds, “It’s about showing that African American men can come together to create something impactful and positive. We’re breaking stereotypes and giving back to the community.”
For him, the podcast is about more than sports – it’s about community and creating opportunities.
show’s adaptability reflects its creators’ desire to inspire audiences both on and off the field.
“It’s about creating a space where fans can feel like they belong,” he says. “Whether it’s football, entertainment or personal growth, we’re here to share knowledge, laugh and connect with our audience.”
Straight to the Top
With viewers tuning in from Colorado, Kentucky, Florida and beyond, “The Retto Show” is proudly building a dedicated following of sports fans, connected by their love of the game.
“The Retto Show” showcases sports highlights, entertainment and community issues through the lens of two Black men who are committed to uplifting their audience and community while sharing their enthusiasm for the world of sports.
A Dream Turned Reality
Dominique Walker aka Retto James, relocated to Denver from Lexington, Kentucky, with plans to provide a better life and better opportunities for his children. With an educational background in media and a dream to discuss sports in an accessible, relatable way, he conceptualized “The Retto Show.”
After four years of living here and absorbing the city’s spirited sports scene, he put his plans into action.
“Since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted to do this,” he says. “I wanted to create a space where sports fans could feel included, and conversations about the game felt more like talking with friends.”
He shared his vision with Dannell McNeil, a friend and
In September 2024, “The Retto Show” launched on YouTube. From its earliest episodes capturing a lively conversation in McNeil’s basement, the podcast has grown into a more polished and professional production.
Recorded at the PBS Media Center in Downtown Denver, cast members Marc “Big Locs” Welchen, Sir Charles “Chizz” Levias-Dawson and Trey Johnson bring laughter and positivity to the sports-talk platform.
Sports and Success
“The Retto Show” started as a grassroots effort, focusing primarily on NFL commentary. Since its September debut, the team has recorded 11 episodes, tackling sports debates, community topics and everything in between.
Each episode features appearances from special guests such as Devon Quincy, a Division I football player at Western Kentucky University; and Swixxle, a Louisville artist recently signed by legendary producer, Timbaland.
Instead of a polished analysis typical of professional sports commentators, the show provides a fan’s perspective in a
“In our community, we often get a bad rap that we can’t work together. But this show proves otherwise,” he says. “It’s a platform for young Black men and women to see that you can start small and build something meaningful.”
Both McNeil and Walker emphasize the importance of perseverance and chasing one’s dreams. “If you have a vision, don’t let anything hold you back,” McNeil adds. “Our journey – from recording in basements to working with professional media equipment –shows what’s possible.”
A Show That’s Set Apart
With its heart firmly rooted in Denver’s athletic scene, “The Retto Show” doesn’t stop at sports banter. Episodes blend humor, heartfelt conversations and even a little rivalry, including Walker’s self-proclaimed role as the Broncos’ biggest antagonist.
“I like being the villain,” he admits. “It sparks fun debates and keeps things lively.”
The podcast team is also preparing to diversify content for the post-NFL season.
“We plan to cover topics like crypto and block chain, giving our listeners tips on financial growth and personal development,” Walker shares. The
With more special guests and onsite performances planned for the remainder of 2025, the podcast duo is excited for a live show in May, allowing Denver residents to engage directly with the cast.
“We’ve been able to reach a mix of audiences,” says Walker. “But I want to focus more on Denver’s local community, because that’s where I live and work.”
“The Retto Show” is an example of the importance of dreaming big and working hard. With community building as the central focus of its producers, Walker and McNeil are just getting started but hope to score big and win points with sports fans everywhere..
Editor’s note: The Retto Show airs weekly at www.youtube.com/@ TheRettoShow/. To keep up with behind-the-scenes content, follow @retto_james on Instagram.
Jazz by Yaz
Straight-ahead jazz on alto and tenor sax for events and recordings.
Unlocking the Potential of Condo-tels:
A Smarter Alternative to Airbnb for Investors and Guests
Submitted by Barry Overton
the investor and the management company, typically based on a predetermined split.
Advantages of Condo-Tels for Investors
1. Hands-Off Property Management
The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has revolutionized the hospitality industry, providing both travelers and property owners with flexible options. However, this success has also introduced challenges for investors, from managing bookings and cleaning schedules to navigating ever-changing regulations.
For investors seeking a more hands-off and potentially lucrative opportunity, condo-tels (or condominium hotels) are emerging as an attractive alternative. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of investing in condo-tels versus Airbnbs, highlighting their profitability, operational simplicity and superior guest experiences.
What is a Condo-Tel?
A condo-tel is a hybrid between a condominium and a hotel. Investors purchase individual units within a professionally managed hotel or resort property.These units are often equipped with hotel-like amenities – such as housekeeping, concierge services, pools and fitness centers – and are maintained and rented out by an on-site management team.The revenue generated from the rentals is shared between
One of the most significant challenges for Airbnb investors is managing day-to-day operations. This includes handling guest communication, coordinating check-ins and check-outs, cleaning the property, restocking supplies and addressing maintenance issues. Condo-tels eliminate these responsibilities by providing professional property management services.
The management team handles all aspects of the rental process, including marketing, guest relations, cleaning and maintenance. This makes condo-tels an ideal investment for those who want to enjoy passive income without the stress of being a landlord.
2. Consistent Revenue Stream
While Airbnbs can offer high earning potential during peak seasons, their profitability can fluctuate dramatically due to off-seasons, cancellations and market saturation. Condo-tels, on the other hand, often benefit from being part of established hospitality brands that attract year-round bookings. Additionally, these properties are frequently located in prime tourist destinations, ensuring consistent demand.
3.
Fewer Regulatory Risks
Airbnb investors often face a patchwork of local regulations,
including zoning laws, permit requirements and restrictions on short-term rentals. These regulations can significantly impact profitability and, in some cases, render Airbnb investments unviable. Condo-tels operate as part of the hospitality industry, which means they are not subject to the same restrictions as residential shortterm rentals, providing investors with greater peace of mind.
4. Lower Operational Costs
Although Airbnb hosts can achieve higher rental rates per night, the costs associated with running an Airbnb can add up quickly. Cleaning fees, marketing expenses and the cost of maintaining a property to meet guest expectations can eat into profits. Condo-tels streamline these expenses, with the management team handling everything at scale, often resulting in lower costs for the investor.
Why Condo-Tels Provide a Better Guest Experience
Beyond the financial benefits for investors, condo-tels also offer significant advantages for guests, making them a more attractive option in many cases.
1. Hotel-Like Amenities
Guests staying in a condo-tel enjoy access to a wide range of amenities, such as pools, fitness centers, spas and on-site restaurants. These features are typically not available in standalone Airbnb properties, making condo-tels a more appealing choice for travelers seeking a resort-like experience.
2. Professional Service
While Airbnb hosts strive to provide great service, they often cannot match the professionalism of trained hospitality staff. Condotels offer 24/7 concierge services, ensuring that guests have their needs met promptly and efficiently. This level of service enhances the overall guest experience, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat bookings.
3. Reliability and Standards
Airbnb guests sometimes face issues such as inconsistent cleanliness, last-minute cancellations or misleading property descriptions.
Condo-tels adhere to strict standards for cleanliness, maintenance and service quality, providing guests with a more reliable and stressfree stay.
Maximizing Profitability with Condo-Tels
For investors considering condo-tels, it’s essential to focus on properties in prime locations, such as popular tourist destinations or business hubs. Researching the management company’s track record and understanding the revenue-sharing agreement are also critical steps to ensuring a profitable investment.
Some investors may worry that the revenue split with the management company reduces their earnings compared to self-managed Airbnbs. However, the time and effort saved, combined with consistent occupancy rates and lower operational risks, often outweigh this concern. Additionally, the enhanced guest experience provided by condo-tels can result in higher occupancy rates and better reviews, driving long-term profitability.
Condo-tels represent a compelling alternative to Airbnbs, offering investors a balance of profitability, convenience and reliability. With professional property management handling the complexities of rental operations, condo-tel owners can enjoy a steady stream of passive income without the headaches associated with short-term rentals. Guests, in turn, benefit from hotellike amenities, professional service and consistent standards, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free stay.
As the real estate market continues to evolve, condo-tels are carving out a unique niche in the hospitality industry. For investors seeking a smarter, more hands-off approach to real estate, condo-tels provide a win-win solution – delivering both financial rewards and an exceptional guest experience.
Editor’s note: Barry Overton is a licensed Real Estate with eXp Realty. He has been an agent since 2001, and started investing in real estate in 1996. For more information, call 303-6685433 or email barrysellsdenver@ msn.com.
Aurora Fox Arts Center Announces Inspiring Production of Gee’s Bend
The Aurora Fox Arts Center announced its upcoming production of Gee’s Bend, a powerful and poignant play that celebrates the artistry and perseverance of a family of quilters from the isolated town of Gee’s Bend, Alabama.
Directed by donnie l. betts, the production runs through Sunday, Feb. 23, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
“This production honors the resilience and creativity of Black Americans while inviting audiences to reflect on the profound themes of community,
art and activism,” said Aurora Fox Executive Producer Richard Cowden. “The Aurora Fox Arts Center is thrilled to present Gee’s Bend as part of our continued commitment to storytelling that uplifts and enlightens.”
Building on the tradition established with the 2024 production of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean, Gee’s Bend tells the compelling story of Sadie and her family as they navigate the challenges of segregation, family conflict and the Southern Freedom Movement.
Spanning the years 1939, 1965 and 2002, the play weaves together moments of struggle, triumph and empowerment. Throughout their journey, their extraordinary quilts serve as a source of comfort, creative expression and strength. Gospel songs enrich the narrative, add-
ing a hauntingly beautiful layer to this inspiring work.
Following the performance on Friday, Feb. 7, a chautauquastyle presentation will showcase a 40-minute monologue by renowned scholar and performer Becky Stone of The Legacy of Harriet Tubman. The event will be followed by a 20minute Q&A session.
Audiences will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with betts.
About the Director
donnie l. betts is an awardwinning documentary filmmaker, theater director and podcast host. The former Yale School of Drama attendee is known for the production of award-winning documentaries, Music is My Life, My Politics, My Mistress: The Story of Oscar Brown Jr., and The Holly. His production company, No Credits Production LLC, is currently working to complete Resisting, a documentary examining the use of force by law enforcement and others in America. He also produced the Emmy Award-nominated film, Dearfield: The Road Less Traveled, and the Emmy Award-winning My Voice.
betts was the youngest recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts and was part of the producing team for the launch of BET’s “Starz in Black.” He has directed acclaimed plays including The Mountaintop, Porgy and Bess, The Color Purple, Emperor Jones, K2,
and Zora. He is a founding member of City Stage Ensemble and Denver Black Arts Company, and hosts an audio drama podcast series titled, “Destination Freedom Black Radio Days.”
About Becky Stone
Becky Stone was born and raised in Philadelphia. She earned her undergraduate degree at Vassar College in drama with a minor in French and a master’s degree in elementary educational counseling from Villanova University. She worked for seven years in the Philadelphia School System and taught theater for 10 years at a classical Christian school in North Carolina. She has been a Chautauqua scholar since 2003, debuting her portrayal of Pauli Murray. Her other characters include Rosa Parks and Maya Angelou, all of which premiered at the Greenville, South Carolina, Chautauqua Festival. She is also an accomplished storyteller, performing at festivals, libraries and schools.
About Aurora Fox Arts Center
Located in the heart of Aurora, the historic Aurora Fox Arts Center continues to be a vibrant hub for artistic expression, celebrating diverse stories and fostering meaningful connections with the community.. Editor’s note: For more information or tickets for Gee’s Bend, call (303)739-1970 or visit AuroraFoxArtsCenter.org
Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky Comes to Denver
Firehouse Theater Company announced its upcoming production of Pearl Cleage’s poignant and timeless play, Blues for an Alabama Sky.
Set during the vibrant yet tumultuous Harlem Renaissance, Blues for an Alabama Sky masterfully weaves themes of love, ambition and survival against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America. The story follows a close-knit group of friends as they navigate personal dreams and harsh realities, tackling issues that resonate as powerfully today as they did in the 1930s.
Blues for an Alabama Sky captures the spirit of a community striving for equality and creative expression while confront-
ing systemic challenges. Angel Allen, a struggling singer, seeks stability and romance while her best friend, Guy Jacobs, dreams of designing costumes for Josephine Baker in Paris. Their lives intertwine with those of their neighbors, and the arrival of a Southern newcomer tests the bonds of friendship and hope.
“Blues for an Alabama Sky is a play of determination, pain and passion. Survival is a key element that determines the essence of the characters,” says Director Adrienne Martin-Fullwood. “Pearl Cleage intertwines realism of iconic places and people as she also embraces fictitious characters that bring this story to life.”
Performers include Jonathan Underwood, Nadiya Jackson, Marissa Joy Leotaud, Jysten Atom and Jozeph Michaels. This drama will run from Feb. 8 to Mar. 9, with shows Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m., plus Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are $32 with a group rate of $27 per person for groups of 10 or more. All performances will be at The John Hand Theater at 7653 E. 1st Place, Denver, CO 80230.
About Firehouse Theater Company
Firehouse Theater Company is committed to producing compelling, thought-provoking works that inspire dialogue and enrich our community. With a reputation for excellence, the company strives to present diverse voices and stories that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds..
Editor’s note: For tickets and additional information, visit www.firehousetheatercompany.com
Black History Month 2025 Recognizes The Enduring Fight for Socio-Economic Equity
By Mona Cedillo & Ruby Jones
In 1915, historian Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). In 1926, the organization established a week-long celebration of Black history, selecting February in honor of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln – two men Woodson believed to be freedom fighters – and an observance of their birthdays. In 1976, President Gerald R. Ford issued a message recognizing Black History Week, then Black History Month, after ASALH expanded the commemoration.
In 1986, the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 99-244, designating February as National Black History Month and directing U.S. Presidents to issue proclamations for its observance in years to come.
Black History Month 2025
Each year, ASALH defines a theme for the month-long celebration to focus public attention on specific sectors and developments that merit emphasis. This year, the theme is “African Americans and Labor,” with a
focus on the ways that “work and working of all kinds – free and unfree, skilled, and unskilled, vocational and voluntary – intersect with the collective experiences of Black people.”
Noting that work is “at the very center of much of Black history and culture,” this year’s commemoration calls attention to the importance of socio-economic equity achieved through agricultural, vocational, corporate and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Throughout history, labor has been a strong consideration in the fight for civil rights. Many of the most famous speeches from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are taken from demonstrations of support for unions and striking workers. He believed that labor has dignity and worth, and that labor rights and civil rights were inseparable.
Socio-economic equity is at the center of the current political landscape, with major corporations rolling back protections for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). In Colorado, organizational leaders are taking a stand and fighting to protect workforce equity for communities of color.
Industrial Equity
The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) works to eliminate barriers to participation in the transportation industry for people of color, women, veterans and people with disabilities. The organization provides leadership training, professional development, scholarships, internship opportunities and political advocacy to support over 3,000 transportation workers in 40 chapters.
Rico Nelson, CEO of Colorado-based engineering and construction firm, Civil Technology, serves as president of COMTO’s Colorado chapter. In addition to the work he does to support redevelopment across the state, his role at COMTO Colorado engages him in a mission to provide access to employment, career and contract opportunities.
Part of the driving force behind Nelson’s impactful work is an acknowledgement of the roots of Black labor in America.
“It was labor that was being traded from West Africa to the Western hemisphere, going back to the founding of this country,” he says. “It’s a very sad history in many ways, but it speaks to the resilience of the people. We can’t tell the story about [Black labor] without acknowledging where it originated.”
Believing that younger generations should know the history of Black labor and its role in creating American infrastructure, Nelson says, “...Railways, waterways, roadways, bridges and facilities…you have a preponderance of the work done by African Americans.”
Labor Protections in Colorado
Colorado Workers for Innovative and New Solutions (WINS) is a labor union that represents over 27,000 state employees by improving pay,
safety and work conditions, ensuring an equitable workforce throughout the state.
The union’s president, Skip Miller, has worked as an IT professional and state employee for 20 years, and his unique perspective of Black American labor includes recognition of the courageousness that rests at the foundation of economic growth. From enslavement to segregation, discrimination kept the Black community from achieving economic equity, but Miller points to migration as a turning point in history.
“I grew up in Detroit,” he says. “My family worked in the auto industry. Having these good union jobs allowed them to progress to things that they would have never achieved had they stayed in the South.”
Homeownership was attainable for his parents, and he calls his graduation from the University of Colorado Denver with a bachelor’s degree in IT services a “generational change.”
“I owe all that to Black labor. That’s a direct impact on me and my kids, because I passed that legacy on to them.”
When WINS was created in 2007, he was eager to get involved, knowing the benefit for employees – particularly those within the Black community.
“You read any of our history; we’ve always wanted to contribute. We contributed much more than we had received toward building this country. It was never a lack of
ambition or ability; it was about opportunity.”
The State of Black Labor
With the Great Migration resulting in over one million Black workers entering steel, automobile, shipbuilding and meatpacking industries between 1916 and 1930, unions grew and gained power.
During World War II, Asa Phillip Randolph played a vital role in helping to desegregate the armed forces and establish the Fair Employment Practices Commission. He assisted Black porters in a fight against low wages from the Pullman Palace Car Company, resulting in the creation of the first Black labor union in the U.S., The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) in 1925.
After the war, Black labor unions joined the fight for civil rights. Pushback against unionization from anti-union forces reached a boiling point in 1955 during The Montgomery Bus Boycott, when E.D. Nixon
approached Dr. King with an offer to lead the Montgomery Improvement Association.
The Civil Rights Movement was largely supported by thousands of trade unionists, whose support increased national attention and rallied a call for better working conditions as part of the movement’s platform. In 1964, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which provides protections against discriminatory hiring practices.
Today, the evolution of Black labor involves technology, healthcare, finance, government, business, engineering, culinary arts, media, education and more, with Black labor participation rates at nearly 63%
With tremendous advancement underscoring the state of Black labor from the arrival of the first enslaved people on American shores, this year’s
Black History Month theme highlights Black unions and caucuses, Black professionals and a future of economic possibilities for Black youth.
ASALH supports the allocation of the theme, saying, “The work Black people do and have done has been instrumental in shaping the lives, cultures and histories of Black people and the societies in which they live. Understanding Black labor and its impact in all these multivariate settings is integral to under-
standing Black people and their histories.”
From the forced labor of enslaved people to the resilience and innovation of Black workers in the face of systemic discrimination, their contributions have shaped industry, fueled progress and advanced the fight for socio-economic justice to move society closer to collective prosperity..
Editor’s note: To learn more about ASALH, visit www.asalh.org.
Letters
Continued from page 3 dern, urban park, and it will almost instantly become one of the city’s largest urban parks. This brings closure to the endless squabbling about the property’s future that has paralyzed it from realizing its full potential as a community treasure available to everyone in the city.
Folks may begin to enjoy the open space by summer. The same plot of land that has so long sat neglected will be transformed over the next few years into a crown jewel of the city.
Being mayor is not an easy job. Mayor Johnston stood strong with the community, and is doing what is right over what is easy.
As mayor, my administration added more park and open space than any previous mayor. Mayor Johnston should be proud to continue that important legacy of being the city’s leader. As I have often said, the
parks are the backyards for all of our residents.
Reclaiming PHGC for the people and turning it into a world-class park also should be a catalyst for more investment into Northeast Denver. Though there have been improvements, the neighborhood – one of the most diverse in the city –remains underserved.
Residents have gone too long without a nearby grocery store, and the price of housing continues to rise. With the park as its heart, we should be able to attract around it more amenities, resources and housing options that our community deserves without losing the neighborhood’s history or character. We will need Mayor Johnston’s continued focus and partnership to ensure we find that balance. .
Editor’s note: Wellington Webb served as Denver’s 42nd mayor and first Black mayor from 1991-2003.
Start composting
Arapahoe Libraries Presents: “Growing Up Black in Cherry Creek”
Arapahoe Libraries will host a celebration of Black History Month with an event honoring the legacy and history of one of Denver’s earliest Black neighborhoods.
“Legacy of Cherry Creek: Growing Up Black in Denver’s Transforming Neighborhood” will pay tribute to individuals whose contributions to the vibrant neighborhood helped transform it into the upscale business and entertainment district it is today.
The free event will be held Saturday, Feb. 22 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Embassy Suites DTC.
Held in memory of Nancelia Jackson, a lifelong resident of Cherry Creek who passed away at age 98, the event will offer a glimpse into the neighborhood’s storied past through personal reflections and historical accounts. It will also explore what’s in store for Cherry Creek’s future.
Colorado Public Radio’s Chandra Thomas Whitfield will moderate the discussion with distinguished panelists, including the Honorable Gary M. Jackson; Dr. Trudi Michelle Morrison, who has held top posts in all three branches of the U.S. government; Cleo Parker Robinson, founder and artistic director of Denver-based Cleo Parker Robinson Dance; and Warren Scott, retired U.S. Post Office manager.
MCA Denver Announces Summer 2025 Teen Artistsin-Residence Program
The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA Denver) announced the launch of its first-ever Teen Artist-in-Residence Program granting an opportunity for six teenagers to create original works of art on-site at MCA Denver’s Fries Building. The new program will provide invaluable training and mentorship for teens who are interested in the arts, as they create, ideate and receive valuable demonstrations and critiques by local artists.
The Teen Artists-inResidence Program will take place in two sessions, from June 10 to July 2 and July 8 to July 30, with three teen artists in each session. Each teen will get access to a portion of a shared studio space with a table, chair and wall-hanging space. The museum will provide a stipend for material costs.
Through the course of the program, the teen artists will dive into the creative process and create works that can be used for college portfolios, community projects or to simply try out new ideas. Teens studios will be available Tuesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m., with weekly demonstrations, critiques and conversations from local Denver creatives that span mediums and techniques.
To celebrate the conclusion of the residency, each cohort of artists will create and showcase a public-facing community component (workshop, exhibition, talk, event, etc.) that will be open to their peers and the general public.
Free refreshments will be provided, and an audience Q&A will follow.
For more information or to RSVP, call 303-542-7279..
Applications close on Feb. 17. Interested teen artists are encouraged to apply early. . Editor’s note: To apply for the Teen Artist-in-Resident Program, visit https://mca-denver.typeform.com /to/fphSUYJ2
Dr. Janice Jarrett. O.D
Remembering Lee and Leo Smith
Close family and friends paid tribute to Leroy Othello Smith last month, reminiscing on the impact he and his wife of Leo had on community locally, nationally and internationally. Leroy Othello Smith was born August 5, 1938 in Denver, Colorado, to parents Leroy Smith and Lulu Green. His father, Leroy Smith, was a Five Points businessman, entertainment promoter and radio personality. “Lee,” as commonly known to those who knew him, graduated from East High School in 1956, and the University of Colorado at Boulder with a Bachelor of Arts in 1963. He later received two advanced degrees from Columbia University a Master of Arts in 1968, and a Masters of Education in 1974. He worked at the U.S. Department of State as a foreign service diplomat, serving in several places including Africa and the Philippines, before his retirement in 2004. He married Léopoldine DouallaBell in 1975.
Upon retirement, they moved back to Denver and volunteered at Denver International Airport and established the Business and Intercultural Services for Educational Travel and Associated Learning (BISETAL).
Lee passed away on January 7, 2025.
Léopoldine DouallaBell Smith was the world’s first black flight attendant. She was born in Cameroon, and was a princess of the royal Douala family of Cameroon. Her career in the airline industry started in Douala. She took her first flight as a flight attendant (with Union Aéromaritime de Transport) in 1957. In 1960, she was invited to move to Air Afrique; she was then the only qualified African person in French aviation. She was subsequently hired as Air Afrique’s first employee and throughout her 12year tenure became the airline’s first cabin chief. She was honored at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Black Flight Attendants of America at Los Angeles International Airport’s Flight Path Museum. She was also honored during the international women day celebration in Denver Colorado on March 10, 2019. Leo passed away on May 9, 2023.
The couple will be greatly missed by a daughter, Chantal Smith Burgess and a son, Daniel Charlier Smith and granddaughters Devonay, Breanna and E’Jaaz.
DUS Publisher Rosalind “Bee” Harris has fond memories of the Smiths. Their friendship spanned for almost three decades. “It was years later that I learned from her husband that Leo, was the first Black flight attendant in the United States and her story had to be told,” she said. “They were very special and just a very beautiful couple. I am happy that our paths crossed in our lifetimes and I could call them both my friend.”
To read the story on Léopoldine DouallaBell Smith in the March 2015 Denver Urban Spectrum, visit this link: https://bit.ly/3E2Agjp
To view her national recognition, visit this link: https://bit.ly/4hl7Hf6
Photos by EB Pixs Eboni Coleman
Photos by EB Pixs Eboni Coleman
Left to right: Guest speakers NABJ founders Sandra Watson-Dillard and Sandra Long Weaver with Tamara Banks and Dr. Vern L. Howard
