DUS July 2012 by Denver Urban Spectrum

Cover illustration by Jess DuBois

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MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

Volume 26 Number 4

July 2012

PUBLISHER Rosalind J. Harris

GENERAL MANAGER Lawrence A. James MANAGING EDITOR Sheila Smith

FILM and BOOK CRITIC Kam Williams

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Martin J. Rios Shaughnessy Speirs Sheila Smith ART DIRECTOR Bee Harris

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Gillian Conte, The Creative Spirit Jody Gilbert, Kolor Graphix

PRODUCTION AND OFFICE ASSISTANT Cecile Perrin CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Cecile Perrin Lens of Ansar A’ Star’s Photography

ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS Rodney Sturgeon WEB SITE ADMINISTRATOR Tanya Ishikawa DISTRIBUTION Glen Barnes Lawrence A. James Ed Lynch

The Denver Urban Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to spreading the news about people of color. Contents of the Denver Urban Spectrum are copyright 2012 by Rolado, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The Denver Urban Spectrum circulates 25,000 copies throughout Colorado. The Denver Urban Spectrum welcomes all letters, but reserves the right to edit for space, libelous material, grammar, and length. All letters must include name, address, and phone number. We will withhold author’s name on request. Unsolicited articles are accepted without guarantee of publication or payment. Write to the Denver Urban Spectrum at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. Office address is 2727 Welton St., Denver, CO 80205. For advertising, subscriptions, or other information, call 303-292-6446 or fax 303-292-6543 or visit the Web site at www.denverurbanspectrum.com.

Tackling Troubling Times – It’s Time to Put Out the Flames

It’s July – Summertime in the Rockies – a time for summer vacations, family reunions, and picnics in the park – a time to live and love life. Sadly for some, this summer will be remembered as one of sorrow and pain. It’s a hot time in Denver and temperatures are rising and tempers are flaring. And, for good reason. Last week, Rep. Angela Williams called for an emergency community forum for input from the five P’s – Parents, Police, Preachers, Politicians, and the Public – seeking answers on how to stop the violence. Having recently lost a young cousin to gun violence, she is one who will remember this summer with somber memories. And over the Memorial Day weekend, the Denver community experienced yet a double murder that again proved to be senseless and more so painful for family and friends. Williams meeting was followed the next day with yet another community gathering hosted by the NAACP in a house of prayer where, disappointedly, only a handful of people were in attendance. Are we headed for another summer of violence like in 1993 when Geronimo Maestas was killed simply over a Bronco Jersey and when Broderick Bell was caught in the line of fire at the tender age of six? Today, at the age of 25, he still carries that memory literally, by way of the bullet, in his head. Once in awhile, when God seeks everyone’s attention – he gets it. There comes a time when community has to come together. This was one of those times. And it’s always at the sacrifice of someone else. This sacrifice was Celena Hollis – a 32-year-old African American female Denver Police officer, and single mother. Celena has brought community together. It may not have been her plan, but it was God’s plan. The compassion and love expressed at the District 2 Police station will outweigh any and all pain. By the time you read this, much will have happened – more meetings, more talk and Ms. Hollis will have been laid to rest. What will NOT have happened is the unrest, the pain, the sadness, and the feeling of hopelessness. As you read this issue and read about the “Summertime in the Rockies” upcoming fun events, take a moment and read between the lines of messages. It’s time to wake up Denver! Reach out to someone – anyone. Talk to a youth, volunteer somewhere, donate to a cause, thank a police officer, spend time with an elder – just do it. Pain is silent and very difficult to hear. The temperatures will eventually go down. With a concerted effort the tempers will dissipate also if we come together as we are designed to do. Peace and blessings... Rosalind J. Harris Publisher

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

Denver Urban Spectrum One of our own, a sister, will now be added to the Police Department E-mail Addresses Station District Two’s Fallen Heroes wall. How sad is that, espeDenver Urban Spectrum cially when a Black female officer was only trying to do her duty to DenverUrbanSpectrum@urbanspectrum.net protect and serve. Violence has already rocked this city several times this year, Publisher involving the deaths of young Black men. This shouldn’t be anothPublisher@urbanspectrum.net er hot summer of gang violence and the loss of more of our young Editor Black youths. Editor@urbanspectrum.net It pained me further to read a comment by someone who was at the Jazz at the News & Information Park event when Officer Celena Hollis was shot in the head. News@urbanspectrum.net The person told the reporter, “We’re used to shootings; we grew up in the hood, Advertising & Marketing but we’re angry that an officer was hurt in this shootingI. That’s the sad part.” Advertising@urbanspectrum.net Well the real sad part is we shouldn’t be used to it and our community continues Graphics & Design to let it happen instead of saying enough is enough and being proactive in finding a Graphics@urbanspectrum.net real solution to end all of this violence. Distribution & Circulation State Senator Mike Johnston and Brother Jeff Fard and others organized a Distribution@urbanspectrum.net meeting at the District Two police station the next day after the park shooting, where many members of the community turned out. Everyone shared their condolences over the loss of Hollis, who was a single mother and veteran with the Denver Police Department since 2005. Terrence Roberts, founder of the Prodigal Son Initiative, works in the community educating youths about gang violence. “The same thing happening here (in Denver) is going on in Los Angeles, New York and other cities,” he said. “Kids don’t have jobs and are traumatized. Kids are afraid of each other, afraid to leave their community. So we are having all this drama and trauma going on in our city.” Another person at the meeting said, if anything, Officer Hollis’ death has brought the community and law enforcement closer together - it’s no longer us and them (police).Someone else added how too many young people are hurting and something is wrong when they have to start shooting into a crowd of elderly, children and other young people. “Enough,” is all Denverite John Marsh stated. While it is a thankless job being a police officer, the community owes these police officers a debt of gratitude for all they do in the line of duty. Our community is hurting and traumatized over Officer Hollis’s death but her spirit will live on with us. Sheila Smith Managing Editor

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

With Art Reflects Nature,

CBAF Nourishes Artists, Art, and Life Perry Ayers with longtime festival volunteer Rosalyn Washington

hen Perry Ayers, his brother, Oyedele Oginga, and a group of artists from the community came together to start the Denver Black Arts Festival in 1986, there were a lot of things they didn’t yet have to contend with. For starters, he could count the number of summer festivals in the city on one hand, meaning he did not have to compete for funding or attendees. Things didn’t cost as much as they do now. And while there was a dearth of African American cultural organizations at the time, in some ways, it could be seen as a blank slate for such a creative group. Twenty-six years later, things have gotten much more complicated for event planners and cultural organizations on the whole; and yet the festival still ticks on – a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of its guiding forces. This year, the Colorado Black Arts Festival expanded in having more artists with fresh faces from farther away and taking place July 13-15 in Denver’s City Park West. It’s a daunting task trying to make up for a cultural lack of value and focus on the arts, especially art from and for the Black community, but Ayers has never been one to balk at that challenge. And why he really started the festival in the first place. In 1986, he says, “there were (very few) African American cultural organizations. They weren’t necessarily reaching their audience. My brother and I looked at the picture: we don’t have a cultural center; we don’t have galleries; we don’t have theaters.” “There wasn’t much to count on. The arts were getting left out...I’d say that a lot of communities celebrate our culture sometimes more than we do,” he acknowledged. “We thought that was kind of a misplaced energy.” Ayers and his brother asked, “How can we bring that all together all at one time?”

By Shaughnessy Speirs The answer was the very first Denver Black Arts Festival. They invited artists from the cultural community to come and showcase their work. The first festival took place August 1987, and, of course, it ended up raining the whole weekend. They weren’t ready to give up on their idea, not yet. But the next year saw an attendance of 2,500 Denver residents. The event kept growing into the tens of thousands. By the 1990s it had reached 100,000. From the beginning, it hasn’t been easy maintaining a festival of this size and providing room for it to grow. “No doubt, funding has been one of the toughest challenges in regards to producing the event,” Ayers admits. “When we first started out, costs of things were nowhere near what they are today. Keep in mind back in 1986 you could count the number of festivals on one hand – now there are over a hundred. They’re all vying for the same resources.” Being around the longest certainly works in the Colorado Black Arts Festival’s favor when it comes to competing for funding, but there’s never any guarantee. They have had to be resourceful, figuring out how to organize a large-scale celebration and invite the whole city all on a shoestring budget. Festival planners have faced this challenge with aplomb, expanding the event through the difficulties, which is even difficult for Ayers to believe how they did it. “It became more than we expected,” he admits. “New ideas, fresh ideas, folks coming aboard – that was

really encouraging for us to continue. A lot of organizations got their birth at the festival.” “The festival put new energy into the community about celebrating the arts on a year-round basis.” With an eye toward further expansion, what was once called the Denver Black Arts Festival was renamed the Colorado Black Arts Festival in an effort to draw in artists from all across the Front Range. Ayers hopes the growth won’t stop there. His vision for Colorado Black Arts Festival is to be a regional event, bringing in artists even from surrounding states. As an artist himself, Ayers has a personal connection to the event. He was once a dancer for Cleo Parker Robinson Dance in the ‘70s. But he went through a transition, and now focuses more on visual arts – mainly metal sculpture. Oginga, is also a visual artist, and likes working in media like paint and wood to create images that bring out his African descent through folk art but embrace a modern African American identity as well. Visual art has been a major player in the lives of these two brothers. Until now, the visual arts were not given a unified platform in the festival. “Over the years, we have been hosting visual arts and a mix of a lot of other things in the festival,” says Ayers on the festival’s history with exhibiting visual work. “This year, we’re making a stride to separate the visual arts.” Rather than being scattered in various exhibits throughout the maze of the festival, some of the best fine art by Black artists in this state will be hung in a well-lit gallery.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

“We wanted to make it a focal point,” says Ayers. “We’ve invited some of Denver’s best visual artists in all media to participate – wood relief, carvings, pencil, and ink – a real serious mix of media.” When asked if readers would recognize any of them, he rattles off a list of names, such as his brother, Oginga and Jack Price, whose oeuvre consists largely of emotional, vividly imagined portraits. “A lot of these artists have got works you’ve never laid eyes on,” he says. “They’re bringing out their best work to exhibit in this gallery.” Considering the cuts to funding for arts programming in schools, young people are arguably the ones most in need of exposure to the arts and a home for their creative work. It is somewhat fitting that they should be the first in a lineup of a long, full weekend of arts that is for the Black community. Each year, around 1,500 youths take part in the Colorado Black Arts Festival. Friday is devoted to these young artists who usually perform on three stages, all booked well in advance, from dance teams, step teams, drill teams, musicians and given space to exhibit their visual work. Hopefully, all of it will add up and help make up for all of the arts education that these young people have already lost, as well as give them a platform for their creative work. The youths will also get the chance to learn more about art at the Opalanga Pugh Children’s Pavilion for Art and Learning, named for the late Denver storyteller. The Pavilion will house an exhibit of dolls called “A Doll House,” a maze, and an arts and

ence for festival-goers is the parade, which will commence at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 14. The parade is one of the most wellattended events. It will comprise of dance companies, step teams, drum and drill teams, and a cavalcade of colorful parade floats, as Channel 9News Reporter TaRhonda Thomas will be the Grand Marshal. Mural art is growing in popularity in Denver, and will be another facet of the festival that seeks to unite Denver’s Black muralists into a single endeavor called the Community Art Project. Over the course of the weekend, commissioned muralists will crafts station, among many other children-friendly features. Ayers hopes the positive effects of the festival will encourage the arts back into educational system in this city, and said, “Showing people in the community how essential it is that the arts become part of the curriculum. I think when we have all the people come out, it puts us in a position to work with them and say, ‘hey, our kids are lacking.’” Each year, the festival planners choose a theme for the event, helping create a unifying thread in the artists’ exhibits and performances. This year theme is “Art Reflects Nature.” “We’re paying attention to our natural surroundings,” Ayers says of the theme. “A lot of times, folks don’t realize many of our elements – wood, glass, paper, minerals – that‘s all from nature.” It goes deeper than just the media, though, it’s about how artists use those media to illustrate ideas about our ties to nature. “The music reflects how we are connected to natural things,” Ayers says, citing song lyrics like “Summertime, and the living ain’t easy,” among others. “How we adorn our bodies, what we eat, how we speak, all kinds of things that reflect our connection with the natural world.” The festival’s goal is to acknowledge relationship of nature to art and life. A farmer’s market will be offered for the first time this year – a practical way of alluding to the community’s relationship with nature. Local farmers will have the opportunity to provide lighter fare, like fruits and vegetables, referring to the nourishment that nature provides while the arts feed us, too. While enjoying the exhibits and performances at the Colorado Black Arts Festival, patrons will be offered a number of experiences – some timehonored, some brand new – engaging them in communal celebration of their culture. And of course, the biggest experi-

complete an 8-foot-by-32-foot mural, which will be given back to the community to enjoy year-round. Opalanga Pugh, for whom the Opalanga Pugh Children’s Pavilion is named, is not the only Denver figure to be honored in the festival. The Joda Village Stage and Compound, modeled on the appearance of a Nigerian village, is named for the late Adetunji Joda, a drummer, choreographer, and teacher of African dance. Joda passed away in October of 2011 and was nothing short of beloved in this city. A drum circle on Sunday will celebrate his life. The gospel stage is named for the late Freeman “Cosmo” Harris,

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

who died in 2001; the stage will be a platform to celebrate the brilliant voices of gospel music. Darrell Anderson, painter and mosaic artist, will be honored with the Louise Duncan Lifetime Achievement Award. These are the people that the Colorado Black Arts Festival is working for – the Black artists who have committed themselves to bringing color, culture, and love to their neighborhoods, and making those neighborhoods into places that nurture and feed art. “That’s what the arts do, you know what I mean?” Ayers asks. “Soothing the beast; and bringing out the wonderful things of a person.”

Gold Star Wives…Even More Relevant Today

who have lost their spouses in the military on active duty or as the result service related cause. We are a support group.” says national president, and Aurora, CO resident, Jeanette Early. “We have a legislative body that is concerned about the benefits of the survivors that are due to the survivors.” This is a season where we recognize America’s principles and symbols. We acknowledged the military’s fallen on Memorial Day; the symbol of our country is recognized on Flag Day and on the same day the U.S. Army celebrated its 237th birthday; the independence and freedom we hold so dear is celebrated on July 4th. Veterans of every ethnicity have fought for these freedoms and many are laid to rest in national cemeteries from Arlington to the Golden Gate, and spouses receive a ceremonial flag as a tribute to their loved ones service. A military survivor, in the aftermath of the loss of a loved one faces daunting challenges and questions. How will I go on with my life without my spouse? What about my children? These concerns have the same relevance through the ages of conflicts since World War II. There have been nearly 400,000 battle deaths since World War II. Early lost her husband in Viet Nam. When the ultimate sacrifice is made, long- standing benefits have been available to surviving spouses and their families; education, insurance and health care benefits provide the needed support for survivor families to make it through. Countless veterans have benefited from the G.I. Bill of educational benefits when they return from conflicts, but surviving spouses and their children are also eligible to take advantage of this benefit to make their lives better and whole. Gold Star Wives functions as a watchdog and advocacy organization focused on the continued modern application of these benefits. Essentially the same, as time has passed these benefits have evolved. “From years past, there have been improvements or extensions of benefits for education of the children and for the surviving spouses too. It used to be that you were eligible for educational benefits up to 10 years after the spouses’ death and now they have extended that to a 30-year period,” says Early. “That is a great benefit, because many times if the surviving spouse has children, it may be inconvenient for them to go back to college or school if they are trying to take care of their small kids. So extending that time for benefits for education was a really good thing.” With an active government rela-

Jeanette Early

The evening news has traditionally

By Charles Emmons

reported the casualties of war. To date nearly 6,500 lives have been lost in

Afghanistan and Iraq. Most of us have only seen the scene played out in

movies. Many times Hollywood has shown us the emotional moment

when a new military widow receives

news about the death of a loved one in service to our country. In reality, those who most relate to this difficult sce-

nario are those who have experienced it. Many women who lost military

spouses have found some solace in

Gold Star Wives of America, Inc., a

federally chartered non-profit national support group for military widows and widowers.

Established in 1945 by three women in a Manhattan, NY, apartment, Gold Star Wives of America’s numbers have dwindled to 10,000, and most are seniors, having lost a spouse in Viet Nam or before. Similar to other federally chartered organizations, like the Red Cross, Gold Star Wives provides services and support where the government cannot. The organization received its federal charter in 1980, under Title 36 (Patriotic Societies and Observances). As the current conflicts wind down, it continues to have relevance today. “Women should join Gold Star Wives because it is a support organization for women and men

A BENEFIT FOR

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Activities of Gold Star Wives

Color the Hill Gold – Members meet with congressman to advocate the modern application of survivor benefits. Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day Parades – Members ride in local parades to bring attention to Gold Star Wives Snowball Express – An annual activity, usually in December, just for the children where they take them out to a resort, like Six Flags. Stay-At-Home Tea – A tea bag is mailed to each member. She is asked to enjoy a cup of tea, alone in her home or with friends, or at a Chapter Tea Party; then mail her donation to the Fundraising Chairman who is a member of the Board of Directors. Donations benefit Gold Star Wives programs.

tions committee in the Washington D.C. vicinity, Gold Star Wives has leveraged access to congress and policy makers to ensure important benefits are still available for survivor families. According to Early, some in congress don’t fully understand the needs of military widows and widowers. Recent changes in this area were advised. “That has not been very long, maybe about 5 or 6 years. These are things when policy is set, they are sitting behind a desk; they may not really know what is going on outside, says Early. “So it’s a group, Gold Star Wives is a cohesive group and we have a legislative body that will go in and give testimony about the hardships and undue inconveniences that the survivor is going through, that they aren’t aware of, and that is one of them.” When there is a policy change, Gold Star Wives uses every means at their disposal to communicate them to its members. There are 52 chapters in various cities in eight geographical regions across the country that have monthly meetings, an annual convention, this year being held in Dayton, OH, and monthly newsletters on both a regional and national level. The 2013 convention is slated for Denver. Those that are not members of a local chapter are designated members at large, and receive their updates in regional and national monthly newsletters. Other tools utilized by Gold Star Wives include the telephone and surveys. Early notes indicate there are other support groups for survivors. There are Survivors Military Widows, and some Gold Star Wives are Gold Star Mothers as well, women who have lost sons or daughters. But for Early, the thrust and main purpose of Gold Star Wives is what sets it apart. There are numerous organizations, non-profits, and foundations emerging

Did You Know...

•In June, it was reported that 2,000 lives had been in lost in Operation Enduring Freedom. Over 4,500 have been lost in Operation Iraqi Freedom. •According to a February 26, 2010 Congressional Research Service Report on American War and military operations, roughly 77 percent of military casualties in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom were under the age of 30. Approximately 8.5 percent were African American and 8.8 percent were Hispanic.

to serve the various needs of veterans and survivor families. In the modern era, there seems to be a disconnect with the public to the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. There is no national shared sacrifice, but when the ultimate sacrifice is made, Gold Star Wives has always been on point to make sure that the level of support is consistent with the need. Early notes that within the government agencies with the survivors they contact, there is sometimes misinformation. “Our thing is persistence; you have to be persistent,” says Early. “When you know and have heard this is what it is, and then you go into an office and someone tells you, Oh no…that’s not right, you go back to another person, but you always get that first person’s name so you won’t go back to them.” Gold Star Wives helps military survivors cut through the morass of policies and regulations that are supposed to help them, but which are sometimes a hindrance. As National President of Gold Star Wives, Early wants to continue to improve the organization with new talent and ideas. Paradoxically, this is not a club anyone wants to join. The loss of a loved one in war is not wished upon anyone. But Early believes new military survivors will only strengthen Gold Star Wives, and as the numbers decline, she encourages young widows to join the organization. The shared experiences of new and older military survivors will only make it stronger. “No matter what amount of money from insurance, no matter what town or city, it is so very important to make a connection with someone who has walked in your shoes, someone who really does understand and someone who has made the journey,” notes Patti Sampers, the Denver, CO Chapter President of Gold Star Wives. “That is what I think Gold Star Wives has to offer these young widows.” Sampers recently met with new military survivors in Colorado Springs who said the women only found out about Gold Star Wives through their

Internet searches. She invited them to the Denver chapter meeting in June and hopes that the young women will find some benefit in joining the organization. “The younger women have so much to bring to the table; they have very good skills. Many of them are very good communicators, and these are skills that we need in the organization, because everything is getting very technical now as far as getting things out in the media. They are all on chat lines and tweeting, etc.,” says Early. These are things that we need to instill and incorporate in the organization, which is an asset when we bring on the younger widows who have these skills and knowledge.” Before taking on the national presidency of Gold Star Wives, Early was the Southwest Regional president and Denver chapter president. In her journey, she sees the need to evolve the old with the new as the greatest challenge. Because most current members are seniors, many women are set in their ways as far as activities and ways of doing things together. Supporting survivors is a social process, and initially widows relish the camaraderie found in the common experience. Early has found some push back in this area as older widows and the younger ones interact. The seniors sometimes are not able or not interested in participating in the activities with the younger widows. Early has seen a new chapter of younger widows develop in the Washington DC area and sees this as a positive development, because all chapters contribute to the thrust and strength of Gold Star Wives. The ‘generational gap’ and the need to reach survivors in outlying areas are the most important issues according to Early and that is why outreach is so important. She wants communities to know about and embrace Gold Star Wives. “We want everyone to know that each person in the organization is very important, and that whatever their concerns are we want to address that, no matter where they are, where they live, who they are, what conflict, what rank, the deceased person was, we just want them to know that we are all in this boat together,” she says.

Editor’s note: If you know someone who has ever had that visit, there is support for him or her. Early would like to bring them on board. For more information about Gold Star Wives of America, visit http://www.goldstarwives.org, or contact Jeanette Early, National President at 303617-7937. Editor’s note: Charles Emmons is a freelance journalist living in Aurora, CO. Email him at cwewrites2@earthlink.net. Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Young Inspiring Colorado Journalists Take On The Big Easy I

By Sheila Smith

t’s no longer about recruiting or maintaining Black journalists in newsrooms around the country but the competition of getting the scoop using social media sites with IPads to smart phones is an ever changing technological world. Colorado Springs’ Gabrielle Cox is a senior at University of Colorado in Boulder and attended the National Association of Black Journalists conference June 20-24 in New Orleans, La. She is also president of the Rocky Mountain Student Association of Black Journalists. It was her first experience going to a conference of this magnitude and networking with more than 2,500 Black journalists. Cox said she was impressed with getting advice from media professionals on how to land her first job. “It

was inspiring to be with those broadcast journalists who are in front of the camera. I like communicating and storytelling 9News Veteran Reporter and the idea of TaRhonda Thomas being a watchdog for the community,” she said. Most journalism students have already grown up in this digital age and adapt quickly to the new technologies surrounding them. As Cox admits, “it’s not as much of a shock to us compared to those in the industry who have to learn and make that change.” Danielle Nelson, a senior at Pikes Peak Community College in Colorado Springs, also went to the NABJ convention in New Orleans. She enjoyed getting more insight into the different options available of the different medians of journalism – print, broadcast, radio, the web to freelancing. “I received good feedback from speakers and media professionals that helped me with learning those first steps of breaking into the industry. Learning about freelancing and honing certain areas you want to write or report on was so valuable,” said Nelson who is looking to become an

entertainment broadcast reporter. Black media professionals from across the country came together to network and discuss ongoing trends important to their craft in this informational age. The convention’s theme was “New Platforms. New Directions. New Orleans.” NABJ highlighted this year’s presidential election by having Vice President Joe Biden speak at the convention. Biden, of course, addressed why President Barack Obama needs to be re-elected and moving the country forward. “A job is more than just a paycheck. It’s about your dignity,” stated Biden as he talked about the country coming out of a recession and rebounding. Emphasizing how the middle class is the backbone of building this country, Biden added, “Redefining the middle class is the defining moment of our time…middle class folks don’t have cabin dreams.” Biden did not leave without a last word of warning and saying, “This is not your father’s Republican party; it’s a throwback to the 1950s.” However, the one major question being dropped during panel discussions at the convention was will we see a decrease in the number of African Americans coming out to the

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

polls to vote. Are the Democrats going to rejuvenate the Black masses and young people again in a new way to get President Obama re-elected? The parents of Trayvon Martin along with the Rev. Al Sharpton were at the NABJ convention to talk about media coverage of their son’s death. The story of the shooting of Trayvon Martin was tweeted about and hit Facebook before the local and national media picked up the story. “Something is wrong with America when we as African Americans can’t be loving parents,” said Tracy Martin about how the media his portraying his son’s character. “Why is it when our kids are killed, they have to be put on trial?” Getting a major story and gathering the facts is something all journalists do every day – especially when it comes to covering our own Black communities. But telling the story in a meaningful, truthful way using new technical tools at our fingertips is something journalists are finding is making an even bigger impact. As a veteran reporter, TaRhonda Thomas with 9News in Denver, knows too well how to get the story and was honored with an award for her piece “The Real O.G.” during NABJ’s Salute to Excellence Awards Banquet.

Diana Castro: A Soulful Gem and Hidden Jewel By Sheila Smith

estled in the heart of LoDo is the original jazz club, El Chapultepec, recognized for catering to many jazz legends. Known simply as the “Pec,” Denver’s oldest jazz club offers live jazz nightly in a noisy, friendly atmosphere. It’s often standing-room only, with a hearty helping of local color – young and old, poor and rich, in equal measure. A small burrito kitchen and poolroom adjoin the club. But it also has been harboring one of Denver’s best kept secrets for the past seven years – contemporary funk, R&B and jazz diva Diana Castro and her band. Castro sits down at a booth inside El Chapultepec just before she’s to perform. Surrounding her on the walls are pictures of those legendary greats, such as Billy Tolles, Eddie Harris, Phil Woods and even former President Bill Clinton blowing the saxophone. She reminisced about the owner, Jerry Krantz, 77, who died on May 29. “Jerry was a trailblazer by having the first original jazz club,” Castro said about Krantz who opened the Pec in 1933. “Jerry saw things changing around him in LoDo,” she added. “Jazz can be daunting at times, but he wanted to keep live music going and keep it progressive. That is when he hired me because I had a more contemporary, funkier R& B sound.”

focused on her passion by being on the Bourbon Street circuit singing with a three girl group called the Cat’s Meow. She snickered a bit and shook her head when talking about that band. “This band was made up of a big Jewish girl, Zelda Rose, another Texas white girl, Sally Townes, who played the keyboards, bass and a drum machine and then there was me, this African-American girl,” she said as the band had a steady gig at the Seaport Café on Bourbon Street. A year later, Castro put together her own band called Diana and the Big Time, while still singing with the Cat’s Meow, as well. Castro has had some ups and downs during her career span as any other artist trying to make it in the music business. She took her band to Dallas and later regretted it. “I was young back then and stayed in Dallas for 10 months as the house band at Dallas Alley Westend Market (an indoor/outdoor shopping and entertainment complex). But, when I came to do a seven week tour in Colorado, I fell in love with the state,” she explained. She and her band finally relocated permanently to Denver in 1991. No doubt Castro is a seasoned and polished professional entertainer who sings a range of songs, reaching each note to perfection and captivating her audience in wanting to hear more. She admitted she loves singing songs by males and adding her own special touch, especially those songs by artists Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins

Krantz saw Castro playing with the Tony Black Summit Band and immediately fell in love with her musical talents. “You got to come play at my club,” was his exact words she recalled. Ever since then, Castro has been belting out those jazz and R&B selections every Tuesday evening at El Chapultepec. Castro is truly a New Orleans girl with her southern roots and singing in the church choir as a child. By age 18, she had moved out of her parents’ home and started working at a clothing store in the French Quarter, thinking she wanted to be a fashion designer. “I grew up singing in the choir. But I realized at 11 years old that I had something. And I remember singing this one song, “Father Stretch My Hand to Thee,” and this lady named Miss Rose got up out her seat because she was so emotional over the song. Miss Rose was always stoic and never acted like that in church – but I moved her.” It was during this time, the clothing store owner introduced her to her longtime drummer, Marion Edwards. The store owner already knew Castro’s true gift after constantly hearing her sing in the store and doing her thing. By the time Castro was 23, she

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

and Steve Perry. During one of her shows at the Pec, Castro works in harmony with her band even when she goes into a jazz mode scatting: “Oh baby…. sha ba, sha ba, do do do dah. Oh hush little baby now don’t you cry…” Soon she switches gear to sing Bobby Caldwell’s song, “What you won’t do for love… I got a thing for you and can’t let it go.” You can tell her excitement in feeling the song as she stretches her hand to the ceiling and that big voice takes over Michael McDonald’s classic, I Keep Forgettin’ (Every time You Are Near). Her band members are crucial in keeping pace with the sultry Castro. They include Edwards on drums, Robert McDaniel on keyboard and Christopher Harris on bass. Edwards smiled behind all the years that he and Castro have been together, from Bourbon Street, Dallas to Denver. “Ever since we hooked up, it’s been the right kind of combinations,” he said. “In 1992, we did this world tour and went to Germany, Azores Islands, Lisbon, Belgium and Holland.” So far this city is definitely the best fit for him and Castro, as he expressed, “Denver appreciates live music and that is what drew us here,” Edwards said. Castro can effortlessly go from a two-piece set, where it’s just she and a piano player performing twice a month at Del Frisco’s in the Denver Tech Center to her regular three-piece band at El Chapultepec, which includes the drummer, keyboardist and bass player, or even a six-piece band performing at different venues. However, she likes to get a little more elegantly dressed when at Del Frisco’s and said, “It’s a great gig, just me singing and the piano player doing songs that are jazz standards. They are songs near and dear to my heart.” Right now, Castro who has been in the business for a long time is looking to redirect some of her musical energy by writing songs. “I am so inspired to record my own CD because I have so much to say musically,” she stated in wanting to be more than part of a working band but a creative band. “Before I leave this planet, I will have a CD with all original music that I wrote. And I thank God for this technology and music age, where I can execute it on my own without any musicians. I can write and sample my own music with tools right on my computer.” Castro’s gratitude and humbleness shows when she mentions how much those in Colorado have supported her over the years. “So many musicians don’t fare well in the bigger cities. But I am here.”

n nearly any night in Denver it is possible to find great music that is both diverse and engaging. If jazz is your flavor then Jazz@Jacks is one of several spots you can go to hear great live and local jazz, mixed with a little soul and funk. If you plan carefully you can make it on one of the nights where on stage behind the drums you’ll find Tarell Martin keeping time, coolly but ferociously pounding away. Martin, 30, is locked in while onstage and you would never guess by the spectacle before you that somebody so dialed in is nervous. And he admits it. In fact, the smaller the crowd it seems the more nervous he becomes. Still, he makes playing the drums look so effortless. Martin grew up in California, the third child of six children – all of them currently work in the music industry, including twin brother, Timothy, who is a gospel singer.

Jammin’ with Tarell By Martin J. Rios

He got his start with music when he was three years old. Inspired and encouraged by his father, he picked up those sticks and has rarely put them down since. While he’s always loved music, he admitted during that particular time it was actually basketball preoccupying his thoughts. He went on his first professional tour playing drums at 11-years old. After that it, he realized music was what he wanted to pursue as a career. “When I did my first tour there were about 1200 people there. I’d never seen that many people in one room just to see a group I actually played for. After I was done so many of them came to me and told me how I inspired them and touched their hearts through my playing,” he said. “People were saying that if I could do it and sound so good at such a young age then they can do it to. That’s when I knew that this is what I was born to do.” Martin has worked with a wide range of musicians, including jazz saxophonists and composers Nelson

Rangel, Jeff Kashiwa and Paul Taylor. Through these and other affiliations, he became very adept as a writer, composer and arranger. Skills that make him sought after and in demand today. Those skills were honed while working with one of contemporary jazz’s premier bass player Vernon Barbary who says, “Working with Tarell Martin is a pleasure. He has a musical sensibility about him that’s way beyond his years. As exciting as it is to watch him, it’s just as exciting to play with him.” Tarell is committed to his music. He’s also a music director and owns his own studio and production company called Tmar Entertainment. He is working on a Christmas album with another local favorite, Opie Gone Bad, as well as producing an album for smooth jazz artist Tony Exum Jr. Martin’s upcoming shows performing with his youngest brother on July

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

19 at Jazz@Jacks. “He sings with a lot of great artist such as Tyreese, Fred Hammond, Dave Hollister, PJ Morton, Chaka Khan, Kem, Stephanie Mills and a whole lot more,” Martin proudly said. Other scheduled performances include June 30 with Tony Exum Jr. at Funkapalooza starring Cameo; July 7 at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival with Opie Gone Bad; July 13 with Opie Gone Bad at Colorado

Rockies; July 20 for the Tony Exum CD Release Party; and Aug. 12 at Jazz@Jacks from 5 to 7:30 p.m., for A Michael Jackson Tribute Besides his demanding music career, he is the father of three children. However, it’s still wonderful to see how much he enjoys sitting behind the drums and playing. You can hear it in every drum kick and every snare hit. Editor’s note: For more information on Martin or to get a complete list of performances, email Tarellm@aol.com or Tmarentertainment@gmail.com. You can also visit him on Facebook at Tmarentertainment or Twitter at TmarEnt1.

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Harold Whitfield Vies For 2nd District Seat Former Kirkwood City, Missouri Councilman Eyes Seat of GOP Stalwart Todd Akin By Don Corrigan

Editor’s note: The following article is reprinted by permission from the WebsterKirkwood Times. It was first published on May 11, 2012.

In 2010, Arthur Lieber was the

Democrats’ sacrificial lamb running for Congress in a Republican-heavy 2nd District. In 2012, Kirkwood’s Harold Whitfield vows he’ll show that he can win in a “tough neighborhood” for Democrats. “This district is winnable,” said Whitfield of an area long-represented by GOP stalwart Rep. Todd Akin. “It has been redrawn and it is more middle class. And I think people are tired of having a sign hung on the district that ‘‘this district is owned by the Republicans.’ “I have been going door-to-door in Kirkwood, which I am always told is a Republican lock,” added Whitfield. “But I am hearing people concerned about affordable health care, college loan cuts, and Social Security’s future – issues that I can run on and win.” Of course, Whitfield, a former Kirkwood City Councilman and a planning and zoning liaison for the city must first get past the August primary. Three other candidates are filed in this year’s election race for the Democratic nomination to Congress in the 2nd District. Those candidates are: Marshall Works of Ballwin, George “Boots” Weber of Eureka and Glenn Koenen of Oakville. Koenen is well known in Valley Park, where he was executive director of Circle of Concern, a local charitable organization. In the Republican primary race, the candidates are: Ann Wagner of Ballwin, John Morris of St. Peters, James Baker of St. Peters and Randy Jotte of Webster Groves. Incumbent Todd Akin is vacating the seat and is now running in the GOP primary for U.S. Senate. “I decided to get in the race on the Democratic side after talking with some friends who are very frustrated about the gridlock in Washington,” said Whitfield. “Words like ‘reason’ and ‘compromise’ seem to be dirty words in Washington now. Unless voters turn to reasonable people in November, we’ll get more of the same. “Ann Wagner, the likely nominee for the Republicans, may be a nice person, but she helped write the book on Republican policy. She’s part of the establishment and will follow the party line,” said Whitfield. “That’s a

Harold Whitfield, a former Kirkwood city councilman and planning and zoning liaison for the city, will face Democrats Marshall Works, George “Boots” Weber and Glenn Koenen in the District 2 Congressional primary in August. Photo by Diana Linsley

reason I wouldn’t write off Randy Jotte, her opponent in the primary. He may not have a million dollars in the bank like Wagner, but he is not part of the party establishment and people are tired of the establishment.”

Soured On Tea Party Whitfield said he thinks the 2010 election saw many Republican Tea Party candidates win, because people are worried about jobs and national debt. However, he thinks much of the electorate is now soured on the Tea Party revolt, because it has simply led to more shouting, gridlock, and blaming union workers and public education for an economic mess. “I think reduction of debt is a big problem and we need to go back and look at the Simpson-Bowles study on how to reduce it,” said Whitfield. “That may require some reasonable discussion: a modest tax increase and some changes to age eligibility in the future for Social Security. “What we don’t need in addressing the debt crisis is a lot of politicians just yelling at each other,” Whitfield noted. “We don’t need them yelling ‘extremist’ and ‘communist’ at each other when with a little compromise we can solve this problem.” Whitfield said he is not afraid to support government programs in the face of those who want “to drown government in the bathtub.” He also said he unabashedly supports two key Democratic constituencies that have been under fire as of late: labor and public education. Public education is highly valued by Whitfield, who points to his time at Booker T. Washington Elementary School and Kirkwood High School. He said this schooling prepared him well for a bachelor’s in business and finance, as well as a law degree, from Washington University. “Public education is much under attack these days,” said Whitfield.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

“And it seems like Republicans want to privatize everything, from the Post Office, to our Social Security to the schools. The average people I talk to just aren’t so hostile to the people who deliver their mail or who teach their kids. I think the millionaires need to sit down and talk to regular people and find out what they think. “I also don’t understand all the hostility for unions,” said Whitfield. “Historically, labor unions have been responsible for decent hours, decent wages and a middle class in this country. We don’t want that now?”

New 2nd District Lines Whitfield points to the redrawn 2nd District lines and explains why he thinks he will be competitive. The new district now has more of South County stretching through Affton, Mehlville and Oakville; and it has less of St. Charles County. “I’m very hopeful because for people in this area, the Republican brand has gotten to be so bad,” said Whitfield. “What does it offer poor people and the middle class? If you’re a millionaire it’s fine. I know this opens me up to being accused of class warfare, but what can you say about politicians who want to cut schools, Pell Grants and college loans?” Although a number of Democrats across the country are putting some distance between themselves and Barack Obama at the top of the ticket in the 2012 election, Whitfield said he will have none of that. “I am not going to be like Al Gore in 2000 who ran away from the man, Bill Clinton, who brought him to the dance,” said Whitfield. “Obama is going to help me and this area is going to go for Obama even more than it did in 2008. People are pretty smart. They know the mess that he inherited. They appreciate that he’s done pretty darned good with what he has had to deal with.”

Beaus Recognized At Second Annual CBI Gala Dinner

others danced with sons to Nat King Cole and Natalie’s Cole Unforgettable and fathers danced with daughters to Luther Vandross’s Dance With My Father but the highlight of the evening was recognizing and applauding the academic excellence, leadership and achievement of some of Colorado’s finest college-bound high school juniors and seniors. Thirty young men were honored at the 2nd annual Colorado Beautillion, Inc. (CBI) gala, Positioned for Excellence, on Sunday, June 10, at the Marriott Hotel, DTC. Highlighting the accomplishments of 60 male and female high school students, the formal gala began with an elegant reception hour followed with dinner and a formal presentation. Special guests speakers and presenters included Reginald Fowler, Minnesota Vikings owner/chairman and CEO of Spiral Inc.; Coach Bill McCartney, former University of Colorado championship football coach and founder of the Promise Keepers;

Lafayette “Fat” Lever, former Denver Nuggets guard and Sacramento Kings Director Player Development; Walter Davis, former Denver Nugget and Nuggets Community Liaison; Derrick Martin, NFL Player and backto-back Super Bowl Champion; and Jovon Bouknight, Utah State receiver coach. The aspiring and inspiring young participants were honored for their academic accomplishments, dedication and commitment to community, and leadership potential. The “Beautillion” dinner and recognition celebration marked the culmination of

an intensive, innovative, motivational and educationally enhanced program designed to cultivate leadership skills of the young participants. All of the program seniors have plans to enter college in the fall. The CBI mentoring program began in October, 2011 and featured lectures, seminars and workshops that emphasized spiritual, educational, moral character, social skills, and economic values. Additional workshops explained etiquette skills, social graces, grooming, college readiness, interview tips, human sexuality, substance abuse, public presentation

skills, cultural enrichment, and social enhancement. The young men recognized for outstanding achievement are: (2012 Senior Class) Dorian Adams (Overland), Krishnor Ali (Denver School of Science and Technology), Sir Michael Boston (Thomas Jefferson), Rovel Berhe (Thomas Jefferson), King Burtt (Smokey Hill), Elisha Butler (Gateway), Maliek Combs (Smokey Hills), Jeremiah Falope (Hinkley), Jordan Gaskin (Denver East), Dallas Jackson (Denver South), Robin Love (Denver South), Tyler Marshall (Vista Academy), Daniel McQueen III (JK Mullen), Devon Reese (Hinkley), Demari Reynolds (JK Mullen), Samuel Singleton (JK Mullen), Azlan Williams (Montbello), Conrad Williams (Montbello), Rashad Williamson (Thomas Jefferson); (2012 Under Class) Cameron Brown (Thomas Jefferson), Khalil Combs (Smokey Hill), Joshua Heath (Overland), Jordan Johnson (Eaglecrest), Lamar Lee, Jr., Josiah Martin (Eaglecrest), Trei Major (Smokey Hill), Myles Simmons (Overland), Preston Thomas (George Washington), Abraham Woldu (Thomas Jefferson), and Dawit Woldu (Thomas Jefferson). Editor’s note: For more information on the Colorado Beautillion, Inc. or to sign up for the 2012/13 program, call 720-217-8291 or visit www.colobeautillion.net.

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Genuine Jazz & Wine Lets YOU Mingle With The Stars

Where can Colorado jazz fans enjoy great music, wine and relaxation all in one week-end? At the 28th Annual Genuine Jazz & Wine festival at the Copper Mountain Resort of course! This year’s event, featuring international and national artists will be Friday through Sunday August 24-26 with a stellar lineup of national and local jazz talent featuring Ronnie Laws, Paul Taylor, Nick Colionne, Alex Bugnon, Dotsero featuring Steve Watts, Julius, Greg Goodloe and Joel Rodney Siemion. Jazz enthusiasts are sure to have a good time at this year’s festival. Attendees have the pleasure of enjoying a beautiful mountain resort as well as the music and presence of their favorite jazz musicians. In addition to amazing live jazz music, festival goers can sample some of the country’s best wines. Copper Mountain has gorgeous scenery and lodging and it is only an hour away from Denver. Concert attendees can expect a surprisingly affordable and relaxing scenic resort with a weekend of spectacular shows where they can be up close and personal and say hello to their jazz heroes. This month DUS showcases four of the jazz artists. In August, you can read about the others.

Ronnie Laws Ronnie Laws’ name is virtually synonymous with good music. True Laws fans know this gifted contemporary music artist is by no means a new comer to the business. A native of

Houston, Texas, born October 3, 1950, the third in a famous line of four musicians that include his classically trained Jazz flautist brother, Hubert, and his vocalist sisters, Eloise and Debra. Laws taught himself to play alto saxophone at the age of 11, and after an eye injury sidelined early dreams of a career in professional baseball, partially to fulfill his mom’s dream of playing the horn, his instrument became his all-consuming passion. He studied music in high school, at Stephen F. Austin State and Texas Southern University, developing a progressive mastery and technique. In 1970, he moved to Los Angeles, where he found work under the tutelage of such legendary talents as The Jazz Crusaders and Hugh Masakela. His formative training also included stints with jazz pianist Walter Bishop Jr. and organist Doug Cann. He was a member of the 70’s much-revered soul group Earth Wind and Fire, where he played tenor and soprano sax for a two-year stint, before finally venturing out to pursue a solo career. Assisted by immortal jazz great Donald Byrd, he soon signed his first recording contract with Blue Note records, resulting in the impressive debut album “Pressure Sensitive” (1975), produced by family friend, Wayne Henderson, (a founding member of the contemporary jazz pioneers The Crusaders), which rapidly emerged to become the longest selling album, at that time, in the 42 year history of the label. “Pressure Sensitive” was followed by his second album “Fever” (1976). Controversy quickly erupted around him, with so called jazz “purist,” criticizing Laws’ inventive, non-traditional, “Jazz Fusion” style. Laws promptly answered his critics by also scoring unprecedented cross-over success in R&B and pop, in addition to jazz, and receiving multiple awards for originality in the process. Laws is a proven natural at combining the exploratory heart of Jazz with the broader reaching strains of soul and pop music. His first hit, “Always There” (credited as Ronnie Laws and Pressure on the original 45), was one of the most popular, sax-driven, cross-over hits of the 70’s JazzFunk Fusion era. He ushered in the “sensualization” of the soprano sax with Quiet Storm gems such as Grace, Karmen, and Just Love. Pressure Sensitive, Fever, and Friends and Strangers– also the title track of his third album (Blue Note 1978) – all propelled to gold status. Ronnie’s current release, Dream A Little, boasts yet another sound in the multi-talented artists’ already expansive repertoire and expertise in pursuit of newer, broader and unexplored ter-

ritory, “Urban Contemporary.” The single, Old Days/Old Ways, is so tastefully done that music fans will unanimously attest that this will add another exciting chapter to Laws’ already successful career, and graciously honor us with another opportunity to give audience to his exceptional gift. For more on Ronnie Laws, visit www.ronnielawsmusic.com/.

While a student at Berklee, he performed with local bands at clubs in and around the Boston area. During that period, he also performed in church with many gospel groups. In 1985 he moved to New York where he spent four years working as a session musician and touring with urban and jazz luminaries such as Patti Austin, Freddie Jackson, James Ingram, Earth Wind and Fire, and Keith Sweat.

Alex Bugnon Alex Bugnon has created one of the most recognized styles in today’s contemporary jazz piano. It is a sultry mixture of contemporary jazz, funk, and R&B with hints of gospel. Even the titles of his CDs create anticipation for a musical experience that is delivered with passion. His latest album, FREE, reunites him with Atlanta based keyboardist and producer Phil Davis. After recording FREE and his last album, Southern Living, in Atlanta, Bugnon calls this city his second musical home. FREE is a refreshing blend of exotic rhythms with haunting, soulful melodies and the signature Alex Bugnon piano sound. Growing up in Montreux, Switzerland — the home of the Montreux Jazz Festival — Bugnon started playing classical piano at age six. Guided by his father, a jazz guitarist and classical opera singer, Bugnon acquired a love for a wide range of music from Scott Joplin, Thelonious Monk, and Bill Evans to Herbie Hancock, McCoy Tyner, and Joe Sample. Once a year for an entire month, Montreux becomes the crossroads of the musical world, and Bugnon went to his first concert at age seven to see none other than Aretha Franklin! He studied at the Paris Conservatory and the famous Mozart Academy in Salzburg, Austria. At age nineteen, he moved to the U.S. and attended the Berklee School of Music.

Bugnon began his recording career in 1989 with his debut album, “Love Season” which reached the pop charts and the Top 40 of the R&B charts as did his 1990 recording, “Head Over Heels”. He intrigued his fans again in 1991 with”107 Degrees In The Shade,” “This Time Around” (1993), and “Tales From The Bright Side” (1995). Five years later, Alex Bugnon signed with Narada Jazz and recorded his sixth album, “Alex Bugnon…As Promised,” followed in 2001 with “Soul Purpose,” which remained on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart for 23 weeks. In 2003, Alex recorded for the first time in Atlanta with some of that city’s greatest musicians and titled his album “Southern Living.” “After exploring the entire sophisticated and progressive funk that helped me find my sound, I knew I needed to get back to a sound that was more laid back and straight to the point, where the songs, rather than fancy production, are the focus,” he says. “With the success of artists like Norah Jones and Alicia Keys, it’s clear to me that, like me, people are tired of the overproduced, heavy machine-oriented music that excited them in the past. These are complicated times we live in, and it’s inspiring to see a trend towards making life simpler and focusing on the more important things.” For more information on Alex Bugnon, visit www.alexbugnon.com.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Gregory Goodloe And The Light Years Ahead Band “I dedicate all my success to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ because without him there would be no me,” says Greg Goodloe. At a very young age Goodloe says he knew he would be a musician. Strumming to the music of Wes Montgomery, George Benson, Norman Brown and any other artists or group that would capture his ear and heart to the world of music, inspired him to get where he is today. As a self-taught musician and Denver native, Goodloe attended Thomas Jefferson High School where he received a music scholarship to Paul Quinn (formerly Bishop College) in Dallas, Texas. He came from a family that also had musical talents including a grandfather who played the guitar and a father who played the sax. He is also proud to claim blues singer Vernon Garrett as his uncle. “I’ve had the joy of opening for many artists including R&B’s “Tank” Candy from the group Escape and B2K; smooth jazz artists Norman Brown, Dave Koz and Friends/with Michael McDonald and James Ingram; jazz legends Roy Ayers and Spike Robinson; and gospel greats Angela Spivey, John P. Key and The Rance Allen Group – just to name a few.” The Light Years Ahead Band includes some of Colorado’s finest and talented musicians: Michael White on bass, Raymond Richardson on keys, Desmond Washington on drums, Michael Wilkerson on saxophone, along with Goodloe who is the leader of the band and plays guitar. “We express ourselves by playing various forms of music from R&B, Rock n Roll, funk, jazz and hip hop to create what we call “hip jazz.” We cover many artist including Michael Jackson, Anita Baker, Phil Collins, Earth Wind & Fire, Kool & the Gang, T. Pain and many others,” Goodloe

said. He says the Light Years Ahead Band is a very competitive group of musicians playing live music, writing and creating beats and grooves, in addition to producing, engineering and recording music. Goodloe recently released his current cd “It’s All Good” which is available on iTunes and cdBaby. In addition to his very busy schedule, he also plays with the Now Faith Christian Center Breakthrough Choir. Gregory Goodloe and The Light Years Ahead Band will be performing at the Colorado Black Arts Festival in July. “We’re looking forward to taking music one Light Year Ahead,” says Goodloe. For more information on Greg Goodloe and the Light Years Ahead Band, visit www.reverbnation.com/gregorygoodl oeandthelightyearsaheadband.

Joel Rodney Siemion Joel Rodney Siemion grew up in Pleasantville, New York. He graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in Communications and Broadcasting. After working at IBM for 11 years, he moved to Colorado in 1989. Since then, Siemion‘s wide range of experiences includes working in both radio and television. Siemion was a disc jockey at 102.7 KIKX in Colorado Springs and Smooth Jazz 104.3 in Denver. In television, he worked as a newscast director at KWGN Channel 2 Denver, and a producer/director at TV8 in Vail. Siemion has played guitar since the age of seven and began the path of his heart’s desire, studying jazz in 1990 with long time jazz master and recording artist Dale Bruning. For more information on Joel Rodney Siemion, visit www.joelrodney.com/. Editor’s note: For tickets, information, lodging and schedules, visit www.genuinejazz.com or call (970) 4182121.

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

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Call 720-402-3000 or visit www.HOPEonline.org.

Turning Toward HOPE By Heather O’Mara and Ruth Márquez West

very spring, HOPE seniors cross a stage, culminating what has typically been, for each of them, a series of hurdles en route to the high school diplomas they have earned. In HOPE’s seventh year, this tradition is the academic norm rather than the exception. Each graduating class is an example for the students who follow, genuinely influencing generations within families and neighborhoods – a worthy cause for community celebration. Yet, the individual stories of turning toward hope are inspiring in their own right, as well. Take Armandell, the valedictorian of the Graduating Class of 2012, for example. His motto is “If you set your mind to being great, then you will be great.” He turned toward hope to demonstrate that he could, in fact, be both an academic leader and a talented athlete. Marissa is a praiseworthy role model for strong young women. A champion in persuasive argument writing, oral presentation and tough decision-making, Marissa turned toward the hope of achievement and prioritized personal values over popular opinions. “Others don’t influence what I do,” Marissa asserts – something her successful path confirms. Tonaisha, raised by her grandparents, turned toward the hope offered by encouraging and academicminded friends. She also found that HOPE’s smaller learning environment helped her cope when things “just got hard,” and a well-established support system will help Tonaisha progress in her formal education.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Then, there is Tionna, whose apathy about school intensified after the death of her younger sister. Her mother turned toward hope when her daughter could not; and, with a supportive Learning Center mentor, Tionna overcame her grief. “Eventually, I had to choose between just getting school over with or finding the right school and making the most of it,” she explains.

Marco, rising nobly to the challenges of teen fatherhood, kept a roof over his family with “no excuses” commitment. The traits of successful people – ambition, strong motivation toward achievement, focus, responsibility for actions and willingness to work hard – are right in sync with Marco’s attributes and convey the hope he turned to while managing significant responsibilities. Finally, there is Jared, the Class of 2011’s valedictorian, whose triumph over bullying and chronic shyness was chronicled in these pages last year. Jared, on break from his studies at the University of Northern Colorado, cheered his former classmates as they took their moment crossing this year’s stage. The crowd of 2,000 at the HOPE graduation enthusiastically celebrated the accomplishments of graduates, but they were, themselves, part of the larger achievement – a united community ushering young people into a productive future because they, too, are turning toward hope.

500+ Small Business Owners Learned, Connected, Got Inspired At The 2012 Success Summit

standing event – full of helpful, practical information that was well-presented.” This year’s sponsors were The Office of Economic Development, Xcel Energy, Wells Fargo, US Bank, First Bank, Community Financial Services Association, UPS, CenturyLink, Denver Black Pages, Layer Cake Creative, Colorado Biz Magazine, and RNR Design.

Keynote speaker George C. Fraser

Mayor Miichael B. Hancock, Carla Ladd, Moses and Gwen Brewer

n Thursday, June 7, more than 500 people representing a diverse spectrum of business owners, community leaders, and corporate professionals from across Colorado gathered for the 7th annual 2012 Success Summit: Critical Connections for Business Success at the Colorado Convention Center. Presented by Mountain Region Black Economic Summit (MRBES), this daylong event gave participating minority and women business owners a chance to network, meet one-on-one with service providers and procurement representatives, and draw inspiration from local leaders and nationally renowned speaker George C. Fraser. Attendees benefited from the Speed Meeting Expo; 20-minute sessions with business service providers and procurement representatives including Colorado Department of

Transportation (CDOT), Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), and Denver Public Schools, among many others; and learned about social media and online marketing, MBE/WBE/DBE certification, business opportunities, winning government contracts, funding, franchising topics, and building networks at the Learning Opportunities sessions. The luncheon keynote speaker was George C. Fraser, chairman and CEO of FraserNet, Inc., which brings together diverse human resources to increase opportunities for people of African descent. Fraser is considered by many to be a new voice for African Americans and one of the foremost authorities on economic development, networking, and building effective relationships. Fraser delivered a rousing call to action, urging his audience to connect and network with each other both within their communities and across the world, to become more powerful. Notable attendees included the Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock, District 7 Rep. Angela Williams, former Denver Bronco & pro-bowl wide receiver Rod Smith, Denver Chief of Police Robert White, creative dance

director Cleo Parker Robinson, and Court Administrator at Aurora Municipal Court Zelda DeBoyes who also served as the emcee. Comments from attendees were, “It was a great event! I left feeling encouraged and uplifted.” “Both workshop sessions I attended were very beneficial and George Frazier’s keynote was really on point.” “This was an out-

About MRBES: Established in 2005, the Mountain Region Black Economic Summit (MRBES), a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization, has produced the annual economic summit and expo that brings together the various financial, business and human resources to stimulate learning and growth among Colorado minority and women-owned businesses. MRBES’ mission is to provide a venue for minority communities in the Mountain Region to share information for improving the economic standing of our businesses, civic organizations and families through increased business ownership, increased professional leadership, and increased family wealth. For more information, visit www.mrbes.com.

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"Call Today for a FREE Consultation!" Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Second Annual Destination Health: Walk/Run/Learn Set For July 28 Multi-generational, familyfriendly event returning to Denver’s City Park

Happy and Anna Jo Haynes with race participant

The Center for African American Health will host its second annual Destination Health: Walk/Run/Learn on Saturday, July 28 in Denver’s City Park. Destination Health is an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family. Former Denver Bronco Haven Moses, 2011 event chair, is returning

to co-chair this year’s Destination Health with Allegra “Happy” Haynes, Vice President and At-Large Member of the Denver Public Schools Board of Education and a former Denver City Councilwoman. “Destination Health not only benefits those who participate on the day, but also the larger Denver community that is served year-round by the Center for African American Health,” Moses says. “Last year more than 400 people came out to help raise funds for the Center’s programs. With last year’s success, we look to double, even triple that number with the help and support of the Denver community.” The half-day event features a 5K run/walk plus shorter routes for families with young children, physicallychallenged individuals and older adults; an expo area filled with facts about healthy lifestyles and vital health matters; a special Children’s Health & Safety Zone with activities and information for youngsters; and great entertainment by Denver’s own Mary Louise Lee Band. “By our example, we must teach our children the value of a healthy lifestyle and the importance of taking responsibility for our own health,” says Haynes. “Destination Health provides an excellent opportunity for Denver families to get the facts they need to make informed decisions

Rep. Rhonda Fields (far right) with Destination Health team

about good nutrition and exercise, to learn about prevention and management of diseases that impact the African American community, and to have fun as a family participating in the various multi-generation-friendly activities.” Participants will receive their tshirt, timing chip and bib at the registration area in the City Park beginning at 7:30 a.m. Runners and walkers are invited to join in a pre-event warm-up including line dancing at 8 a.m. just west of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. The 5K Walk/Run and the one mile “Senior Shortcut” will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m., with the “Mocha Mile Fun Walk” starting at 9 a.m. An award ceremony is scheduled for 9:30 a.m., followed by jazz, R&B, and pop hits from the ‘60s to the present performed by the Mary Louise Lee Band. Plan now to take part in Destination Health, and encourage your family, friends and coworkers to join, too, by forming a team. Register at www.caahealth.org and create your team’s own fundraising page online for a greater impact. Registered participants will receive a Destination Health t-shirt. Pre-event registration fees are $30 for adults; $25 for children 6-17 and seniors 50-plus; $10 for children 5 & under (with shirt) or free for children five and under (no shirt); and $25 per person for walk/run teams of four or more participants. On July 28, the onsite registration fee will be $35. Destination Health: Walk/Run/Learn is being presented with support from lead sponsor Eli Lilly, Gold sponsor DaVita, volunteer sponsor KeyBank, entertainment and stage sponsor University of Phoenix, Children’s Health and Safety area sponsors the Piton Foundation, Denver Health, Wells Fargo, Denver Museum of Nature and Science; senior shortcut sponsors include COPIC, University of Colorado Cancer Center and the Colorado Trust; supporting

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

stage sponsor Colorado Access; silver sponsors include the Colorado Health Foundation; supporting sponsors are AARP, LiveWell Colorado, Caring for Colorado Foundation, Denver Water, Safeway and media sponsors CBS4, Denver Urban Spectrum, 5 Points News and Jammin’ 101.5, If you would like to join the Center for African American Health volunteer team to assist with Destination Health, email info@caahealth.org.

Determined and successful race participants

About the Center for AfricanAmerican Health

The Center for African-American Health is on a mission to make the 120,000 African Americans living in metro Denver healthier. As a group, African Americans suffer from greater illness, disability and premature death from diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. The Center offers free programs and services focused on preventing diseases and also on improving the lives of people with chronic health conditions. The Center partners with black churches and other organizations in the African American community to provide free health screenings, health classes, and health education materials aimed at improving health literacy and promoting active and healthy lifestyle behavior. For more information about the Center for African American Health visit www.caahealth.org.

Even Obama’s Dog draws Racial Fire By Earl Ofari Hutchinson

The racial

pillorying of First Lady Michelle Obama was bad enough. The occasional snide digs and ugly depictions of the Obama’s daughters were even more despicable. But now the presidential family’s pet Portuguese Water Dog, Bo has taken heat. A Brown University social scientist used polling experiments and an independent survey to identify a series of issues that have been bitter and contentious between Obama and the GOP and that are seemingly race neutral such as tax policy, health care reform, Supreme Court appointments, and political party identification. He found that those with a racial antipathy toward blacks were more prone to oppose anything that Obama supported. That racial antipathy even extended to his dog. To test this, the Brown researcher showed a picture of the Obama’s dog to one half of the test group. He showed the same picture to the other half but told them that it was a picture of the late Senator Ted Kennedy’s pet Portuguese Water Dog, Splash. Those hostile to Obama were much more likely to express disdain toward Obama’s dog than that of Kennedy’s presumed pet. At first glance, it seems, trite, silly and well petty. But it is anything but. The never ending assault on the Obama’s has been the one constant from the moment that Obama declared his presidential candidacy in 2007. It did not hamper his drive to the White House in part because GOP presidential rival John McCain categorically forbade any use of overt or subtle racial appeals by his campaign team during the campaign. The disgust, revulsion, and apathy of many GOP leaning voters and conservative independents toward the domestic and foreign policy bumbles and stumbles of Bush, and the GOP’s sex, and corruption scandals, and giveaway to Wall Street, neutered the overt racial animus of many voters. But even that was misleading. The final presidential vote in 2008 gave ample warning of the potency of the GOP’s conservative white con-

stituency when aroused. While Obama made a major breakthrough in winning a significant percent of votes from white independents and young white voters, McCain still won a majority of their vote. Overall, Obama garnered slightly more than 40 percent of the white male vote. Among Southern and Heartland America white male voters, Obama made almost no impact. In South Carolina and other Deep South states the vote was even more lopsided among white voters against Obama. The only thing that even made Obama’s showing respectable in those states was the record turnout and percentage of black votes that he got. They were all Democratic votes. A Harvard post-election assessment of the 2008 presidential vote found that race did factor into the presidential election and that it cost Obama an added three to five percent of the national popular vote. Put bluntly, if Obama had been white the election would have been a route. The quick surge of the Tea Party in the aftermath of Obama’s election with its thinly disguised race baiting digs, taunts, slogan, offensive parodying, posters, and depictions of Obama and Michelle Obama were early warning signs that race was not off the presidential election table. During the GOP presidential primary campaign GOP presidential candidates made sure of that with the stream of racetinged references Newt Gingrich, Rick Santorum, and Mitt Romney made to food stamps, welfare, work ethics, and an entitlement society. Then there were the racially-loaded newsletters from Ron Paul that resurfaced. The candidates when challenged ducked, dodged, and denied any racial intent, or in the case of Paul’s newsletter, that he even penned them. GOP presidential candidates for the past three decades have crunched the voter numbers and the statistics. The GOP base is the white South and the Heartland. They deliver more than one-third of the electoral votes needed to bag the White House. These are the also the voters that GOP presidents and aspiring presidents, Nixon, Reagan, Bush Sr. George W. Bush, and John McCain and legions of GOP gov-

ernors, senators and congresspersons, banked on for victory and to seize and maintain regional and national political dominance. They haven’t disappointed them. Racial code talk has been a key weapon in the GOP’s campaign arsenal. It has been the spark to reignite the GOP’s traditional conservative, lower income, white male loyalists. A legion of well-heeled GOP Super PACS will spend millions on below the belt hit ads on Obama before November. Almost certainly some of them will go even lower into the gutter and dredge up the bogus birth certificate ploy and his long severed relationship with his former pastor Jeremiah Wright. The Brown University survey simply reconfirmed the horrid fact that President Obama’s public policy stances and battles have been relentlessly clouded, obstructed and opposed by subtle and overt racial perceptions and animus. It’s no surprise then that the Obama’s family dog has drawn racial fire too. Editor’s note: Earl Ofari Hutchinson is an author and political analyst. He is a frequent MSNBC Political Contributor and weekly co-host of the Al Sharpton Show on American Urban Radio Network. He is the author of How Obama Governed: The Year of Crisis and Challenge. He is an associate editor of New America Media. He is host of the weekly Hutchinson Report.

Blockbuster Stars Ride Into Retirement Sunset

By Nicole Tiggemann, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Denver

Summertime is here, and that means blockbuster movies are in season. This summer — and throughout the end of the year — moviegoers can catch some of the usual heroes on the silver screen. Take Batman. He’ll be back on the big screen in another surefire blockbuster. The superhero first gained fans in the comics back in 1939. He could be taking advantage of delayed retirement credits — the power to receive bigger payments for delaying retirement benefits beyond one’s full retirement age. The credit could be worth as much as eight percent a year until age 70. Learn more about this super power available to anyone at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire 2/delayret.htm. Dark Shadows will be making a big screen debut, based on the popular television series. The main character, Barnabas, is more than two centuries old. Surely, he would qualify for benefits if he would just go online and apply. Then there are the marvelous superheroes of the “silver age” of comics, several of whom are appearing in The Avengers. Captain America was born in 1941, making him not only fit for leading but also ripe for retiring. The Hulk and Thor both came onto the scene in 1962; Iron Man and Nick Fury joined them in 1963. They, along with 1962’s Spiderman (also enjoying a movie reboot this year) don’t qualify for retirement benefits yet, but they might want to plan ahead by taking a look at the online Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator, where they can get an instant, personalized estimate of future retirement benefits. From Batman to Spiderman, Captain America to The Hulk, making a decision to retire does not mean hanging up your costume. Today’s retirees are more active than ever, even as they collect benefits. If you’d like to learn more about your own future retirement benefits, take a break from the big screen and take a look at your computer screen. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator to receive a picture of your own future retirement. Ready to start the sequel now? Let the opening credits on your retirement begin; apply for benefits right over the computer. Just visit www.socialsecurity.gov and click the “retirement” tab.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Event Shines Spotlight On Speaking Up And Mandated Reporting Law yet many incidents go unreported. It’s just as important to protect our kids, as it is to protect our seniors. I urge you to look out for one another and call Adult Protection if you’re worried about the safety and well-being of a neighbor, loved one or friend,” Penny May, manager of Denver Human Services said.

treatment of elderly populations by establishing the Elder Abuse Task Force,” said Sen. Hudak. Over the next year, the Elder Abuse Taskforce will convene and make recommendations for creating a system for mandated reporting of at-risk adults in Colorado. Currently, Colorado is one of four states throughout the nation

providers and enjoyed a complimentary lunch. To spot abuse, neglect or exploitation, keep in mind the acronym SPEAK UP, which stands for: Sudden changes in behavior, finances or lifestyle Physical injuries, dehydration or malnourishment

John Allen, Creative Services Director at Senior Source at 9 News, discussed the importance of picking up the phone and asking Adult Protection Services to check to the welfare of an at-risk adult.

Public officials urged people to speak up and report suspected elder abuse and exploitation during the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event on June 15. Colorado Adult Protective Services (APS) received nearly 11,000 reports of suspected elder abuse, neglect and exploitation in 2011. Yet, it estimates only one in 10 incidents of at-risk adults and seniors being harmed are reported. “Adult Protective Services receives calls from people every day who are concerned about someone they know,

The harmony group, Raging Grannies, entertained guests at the It’s Okay to Speak Up event by singing fun songs including Cheers, Our favorite Things and Short Term Memory.

Sen. Evie Hudak and Rep. Sue Schafer discussed Senate Bill 78, which Gov. Hickenlooper recently signed into law. “Elder abuse is a statewide issue. This legislation will combat the mis-

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Caretakers, seniors and providers were entertained by the Raging Grannies and listened to officials discuss the importance of reporting suspected elder abuse, neglect and exploitation at the It’s Okay to Speak Up event.

that does not have an elder abuse mandated reporting law in place. Making sure seniors are protected and cared for is critical to the strength of the Denver community. Denver DA Mitch Morrissey talked about helping a woman whose family members were financially preying on her. His office was able to help by connecting her to housing and support services. He went on to say that his office sees a lot of elders that are financially exploited by family members that have drug and gambling addictions. “We also receive many calls from postal workers on their routes who are concerned about seniors becoming isolated,” he said. While the event shined a spotlight on a serious, but important matter, the Raging Grannies performed lighthearted songs. Additionally, attendees were connected with aging information from various community service

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To report suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation among at-risk adults over the age of 18, please call the Denver County APS hotline at 720944-2994. If you live in another county, call your local county APS hotline. The It’s Okay to Speak Up event was supported by Senior Source at 9 News, the City and County of Denver, Denver Health, Juniper Village at The Spearly Center, VITAS, 50 Plus Marketplace News, Prime Time for Seniors Newspaper, Denver District Attorney’s Office, and several other local businesses and organizations.

Stopping The Violence Means We Find Our Denver Moment

Do we own the

By Representative Angela Williams

violence that grips Denver? Have we made it personal enough to prompt collective action from our entire community? The emotion of my young cousin’s death to the gunfire laying siege on Denver is still raw. Each day I wait for our city to step up in a way that will truly put a stop to these senseless acts. Denver is better than this – smarter. We must tap into crafting creative solutions centered firmly in a citywide philosophy of Safety, Awareness, Prevention, Jobs, Intervention, Inclusiveness and Education. This is why I urged an emergency meeting of Mile High City’s Five Ps: Parents, Police, Preachers, Politicians and the Public under the banner of the

2012 Gang Violence Initiative Community meeting. Bringing the Five Ps together can raise the alarms on violence in our great city. Our community pillars should be unified and ready to implement. But, more importantly, it’s time to tap into the true potential of our young people and to engage them academically, intellectually and spiritually. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing the crisis. We are not looking for conventional thinking or solutions that are the most convenient for the mentor - or the easiest to put in motion. It won’t be easy, and our young people deserve the heavy lift. We need innovative solutions that will fundamentally change and alter their lives. Empower our children by providing an opportunity to bring them closer to realizing a truly successful, productive and fruitful life. Not only should we identify and strengthen existing programs, but pursue newer ones that can face our budgetary challenges while engaging our kids. A real solution is multifaceted and nurturing, and it includes a public/private partnership – from collaboration with the multitude of public, private and for-profit colleges and universities in Denver to finding ways to plug our children into a diverse range of programs that are

doing more than simply filling up time during the course of the day. Denver is the village that raises the child, a rich intersection of science, technology, the arts, music and an unlimited array of small to large businesses, educational institutions and museums all eager for the chance to give back. This is our Denver moment. Let’s discover the leaders of our tomorrow, expose them to newer possibilities and the chance at being model citizens and stewards of our community. Not only will we stop the violence, but we’ll manage to make Denver an even better place, too.

Sen. Mike Johnston addresses the crowd at the District 2 Police Station where a community meeting was held to address the issue of violence after the death of Police Officer Celena Hollis. Photo by Lens of Ansar

Editor’s note: State Rep. Angela Williams represents House District 7 and lives in the Stapleton neighborhood.

After a very emotional and tearful meeting at the District 2 Police Station, the crowd gave a standing ovation to the Denver Police for their support of the community; expressing their love, pain and support for the loss of fellow police officer. Photo by Lens of Ansar

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Editor’s note: The following words are from the Reverend Otis Moss, Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois concerning President Obama’s recent public endorsement of Gay Marriage.

My Brother:

Tell your brethren who are part of your ministerial coalition to “live their faith and not legislate their faith” for the Constitution is designed to protect the rights of all. We must learn to be more than a one-issue community and seek the beloved community where we may not all agree, but we all recognize the fingerprint of the Divine upon all of humanity. There is no doubt people who are same-gender-loving who occupy prominent places in the body of Christ. For the clergy to hide from true dialogue with quick dismissive claims devised from poor biblical scholarship is as sinful as un-thoughtful acceptance of a theological position. When we make biblical claims without sound interpretation we run the risk of adopting a doctrinal position of deep conviction but devoid of love. Deep faith may resonate in our position, but it is the ethic of love that

AN OPEN LETTER FROM REV. OTIS MOSS III TO THE BLACK CLERGY...

forces us to prayerfully reexamine our position. The question I believe we should pose to our congregations is, “Should all Americans have the same civil rights?” This is a radically different question than the one you raised with the ministers, “Does the church have the right to perform or not perform certain religious rites.” There is difference between rights and rites. We should never misconstrue rights designed to protect diverse individuals in a pluralistic society versus religious rites designed by faith communities to communicate a theological or doctrinal perspective. These two questions are answered in two fundamentally different arenas. One is answered in the arena of civic debate where the Constitution is the document of authority. The other is answered in the realm of ecclesiastical councils where theology, conscience and biblical mandates are the guiding ethos. I do not believe ecclesiastical councils are equipped to shape civic legislation nor are civic representatives equipped to shape religious rituals and doctrine. The institution of marriage is not under attack as a result of the President’s words. Marriage was under attack years ago by men who viewed women as property and children as trophies of sexual prowess. Marriage is under attack by low wages, high incarceration, unfair tax policy, unemployment, and lack of education. Marriage is under attack by clergy who proclaim monogamy yet think

nothing of stepping outside the bonds of marriage to have multiple affairs with “preaching groupies.” Same-gender couples did not cause the high divorce rate, but our adolescent views of relationships and our inability as a community to come to grips with the ethic of love and commitment did. We still confuse sex with love and romance with commitment. My father, who is a veteran of the civil rights movement and retired pastor, eloquently stated the critical nature of this election when speaking to ministers this past week who claim they will pull support from the President as a result of his position. He stated, “Our Ancestors prayed for 389 years to place a person of color in the White House. They led over 200 slave revolts, fought in 11 wars, one being a civil war where over 600,000 people died. Our mothers fought and were killed for women’s suffrage, our grandparents were lynched for the civil rights bill of 1964 and the voting rights act of 1965…my father never had the opportunity to vote and I believe it is my sacred duty to pull the lever for every member of my family who was denied the right to vote. I will not allow narrow-minded ministers or regressive politicians the satisfaction of keeping me from my sacred right to vote to shape the future for my grandchildren.” “The institution of marriage is not under attack as a result of the President’s words.” Gay and lesbian citizens did not

cause the economic crash, foreclosures, and attack upon health care. Poor underfunded schools were not created because people desire equal protection under the law. We have much work to do as a community, and to claim the President of the United States must hold your theological position is absurd. He is President of the United States of America not the President of the Baptist convention or Bishop of the Sanctified or Holiness Church. He is called to protect the rights of Jew and Gentile, male and female, young and old, Gay and straight, black and white, Atheist and Agnostic. It should be noted the President offered no legislation, or executive order, or present an argument before the Supreme Court. He simply stated his personal conviction. If we dare steal away from the noise of this debate, we will realize as a church we are called to “Do justice, live mercy and walk humbly with God.” Gay people have never been the enemy; and when we use rhetoric to suggest they are the source of our problems we lie on God and cause tears to flow from the eyes of Christ. I am not asking you to change your position, but I am stating we must stay in dialogue and not allow our own personal emotional prejudices or doctrines to prevent us from seeing the possibilities of a beloved community. November is fast approaching, and the spirits of Ella Baker, Septima Clarke, Fannie Lou Hammer, Rosa Parks, A. Phillip Randolph, James Orange, Medgar Evers and Martin Luther, King Jr. stand in the balcony of heaven raising the question, “Will you do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God?” Emmitt Till and the four little girls who were assassinated in Alabama during worship did not die for a Sunday sermonic sound bite to show disdain for one group of God’s people. They were killed by an evil act enacted by men who believed in doctrine over love. We serve in ministry this day because of a man who believed in love over doctrine and died on a hill called Calvary in a dusty Palestinian community 2,000 years ago. Do not let the rhetoric of this debate keep you from the polls, my friend. Asking you to imagine a beloved community, your brother and friend,

Otis Moss, III Senior Pastor, Trinity UCC Chicago, Illinois

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Obama Is Playing To His Base On Gay Marriage (But It Isn’t Blacks) While cam-

By Derryck Green

paigning for the U.S. Senate in 2004, Barack Obama was asked about his views on gay marriage. At that time, he stated: “What I believe, in my [Christian] faith, is that a man and a woman, when they get married, are performing something before God, and it’s not simply the two persons who are meeting.” Four years later, running for president, during a forum at Rick Warren’s Saddleback Church, Obama repeated that he thought marriage is “between a man and a woman.” He also said,

“Now, for me, as a Christian, it’s also a sacred union. You know, God’s in the mix.” Senator Obama was quite clear that he wasn’t somebody who promotes same-sex marriage, but that he believed in civil unions. Now, citing the very same faith that influenced his decision against gay marriage in the past, President Obama now says his faith and the Golden Rule persuade him that gay marriage should be legalized. Obama’s most his recent “evolution” on gay marriage has generated criticism from some of his most vocal supporters – black Americans. More specifically, black churches and their presiding ministers are taking issue with Obama’s new stance. This raises questions about how black congregants will react and if it will divide Obama’s political base. According to a 2009 Pew Research Poll on Religion and Public Life, black Americans are more religious than Americans as a whole. This should, of course, be seen as a contributing factor as to why so many blacks oppose legalizing gay marriage. Black ministers opposing the President’s new policy position should be applauded for not sacrificing their religious integrity while continuing to embrace biblical truths. On the other hand, those ministers supporting the

President on gay marriage should be confronted about how they could support a position that contradicts what is found in the Bible. Beyond questioning whether faith or politics now drives President Obama when it comes to gay marriage, another thing that must now be considered is who really constitutes the President’s base. Black Americans may be his most loyal supporters, but they are not the people Obama seeks to please most. Black Americans have never been his base in that sense. One only has to look at his life story to confirm this fact. Barack Obama was born in Hawaii. He was raised by and around rich, liberal whites. After time spent in Indonesia, he returned to Hawaii and attended Punahou School – surrounded by wealthy white people. Obama later attended Occidental College, transferred to Columbia University and, after a charade as a community organizer around the South Side of Chicago, attended Harvard Law School. Again, he was surrounded by liberal white people a good portion of the time. This isn’t a bad thing in and of itself – it’s simply reality. Even as he ran for the Illinois state senate, the U.S. Senate and the White House, Barack Obama’s main con-

stituency has been rich, liberal white people. Black folk supported him along the way, but their loyalty of support does not necessarily constitute a political base. Aside from that short stint as a “community organizer” and attending Trinity United Church of Christ – it would seem to build his “street cred” and “authenticity” among those who would be his most loyal supporters – it’s Barack Obama never spent a significant amount of time around black people. Barack Obama’s announcement of his evolution in favor of gay marriage won’t splinter his base once one understands who his base is. And it isn’t black people.

Editor’s note: Derryck Green, a member of the national advisory council of the Project 21 black leadership network, received a M.A. in Theological Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing his doctorate in ministry at Azusa Pacific University. Comments may be sent to Project21@nationalcenter.org .

Published by the National Center for Public Policy Research. Reprints permitted provided source is credited. New Visions Commentaries reflect the views of their author, and not necessarily those of Project 21, other Project 21 members, or the National Center for Public Policy Research, its board or staff.

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Change Anyone? By Quincy Hines

he crowd was small but the energy was high at the Saving Our Young Black Men roundtable, sponsored by the Denver Branch of the NAACP (National Association of the Advancement of Colored People) on Thursday, June 21 at Now Faith

Christian Center Church in Montbello. All the likeminded attendees came with one thing in mind – concern for our young Jim “Dr. Daddio” Walker men who have been seen on so many city block corners doing God knows what. The panelists included Dedrick Sims (Sims Fayola International Academy), Lola Morris (Family Against Violent Acts), Terrence Roberts (Prodigal Sons Initiative), Pastor Ron Wooding, Brother Jeff Fard

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(Bro Jeff’s Cultural Center), Ryan Ross and Denver Chief of Police Robert White. Moderator for the event was Terrence Roberts the very vocal Jim “Dr. Daddio” Walker, past owner of KDKO who can now be heard on AM760. Walker said, “I stopped attending meetings such as these because all people did was talk and meet to meet to meet and rather than waste my time I decided I would sit them out. But this issue is very important to me.” The panelists started by giving reason why they were in attendance and all agreed that we, of African decent Americans, should be more prepared than what we have been – promoting more entrepreneurship, educating our youth, building networking connections and supporting one another. Panel comments were varied and powerful. Brother Jeff requested that people stop begging, spending unnecessary money especially on outside influences and start spending money within our own community. To reiterate what he said, in an article written by Tisha Davis, a Willingboro small business examiner for Examiner.com, showed the dollars spent by African descendent Americans was over $95 billion in 2010 considering we make up roughly 12.6 percent in the United States’ population. The question “How do we start” was answered by Terrence Roberts stating, “We need to learn to support one another better. There are too many warehouses that can support and give jobs to people who need them between Peoria and Chambers and yet they are not employing us. The Bloods and the Crips, without any 501c3 and an official registered organization name have recruited more than 3,000 members in Colorado alone. They were able to win over our youth because they were in the streets recruiting. The Bloods and the Crips have Bar-B-Ques, get-togethers and drive by shootings,” he said. One concerned attendee stated that the NAACP has a corporate report card which gives businesses an ERI (Economic Reciprocity Initiative) grade which focuses on industries such as automotive, telecommunications, financial services, general merchandizing and hotel and lodging. Her opinion was we should start boycotting local businesses who are not equally employing ethnic groups. One young lady who had to be

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

about 16 years old expressed her desire to get a job and her concern on how to get one. She felt that it’s not that easy being a young lady Lola Morris looking for a job. She has tried and has yet to find one and asked how can she get one. With that desire and determination, the floor erupted and Fard stated that he was a small business owner who employs about 10 people, but he would make room for one Denver Chief of Police more. She would Robert White have a job if she wanted one. He also challenged other people from the audience to help him pay her salary and several stepped to the plare and accepted the challenge. Dr. Daddio asked the panel, “How do we develop our youth and keep them engaged and or interested?” Sims stated that he is keeping the students engaged at Sims Fayola International Academy with over 150 male students with one one mentors who serve as good role models. He is looking for more men to help. The dialogue was strong and powerful but unfortunately it was like preaching to the choir. The panel members are all engaged and working with one another. But there is so much more work to be done. Get involved because a small change can make a big difference. Editor’s note: Quincy Jones and Theo Wilson AKA Lucifury host Barbershop Talk where these issue and other topics are discussed. Join BST’s Quincy Hines and Theo Wilson AKA Lucifury @ JoinBST.com on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/JoinBSTCO or on Twitter @BarbershopTalk1

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Truth, Justice, and the Zimmerman Way

Op-ed by William Gamble, April 26, 2012

hose over 60 years old will probably recognize, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Truth, Justice, and the Zimmerman Way,â&#x20AC;? as a parody of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Truth, Justice, and the American Wayâ&#x20AC;? popularized by DC Comics in the 1930â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in describing its super human character, Superman, who fought for these staples of righteousness. Concerning race relations in the U.S., truth is ever in a state of flux, justice is somewhat ethereal, and the American Way is more like the George Zimmerman way, especially for people of color, a way of distrust, suspicion, and inequality. When Pilate asked Jesus in Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gospel Chapter 18, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What is truth?â&#x20AC;? he never gave Jesus a chance to answer as if his question was so deeply rhetorical that no answer would satisfy. As Pilate misunderstood the need for good relationships between Romans and Jews, so too have we derived a false notion of truth as pertains to race relations. The truth for the Romans was that Jews and their Jesus were inferior beings that needed to be controlled, and furthermore had no inherent rights as persons of their own. Like a bad disease, â&#x20AC;&#x153;these peopleâ&#x20AC;? had to be controlled or eliminated, the latter step being attempted by Adolf Hitler with his solution for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jewish problem.â&#x20AC;? In one sense as we look at the history of the U.S., I think one can legitimately ponder the rectitude of our current state-of-affairs as it pertains to race relations, particularly between Blacks and whites. Notwithstanding the progress that has been made, George Zimmermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;truthâ&#x20AC;? (and others like him) regarding Trayvon Martin was that â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trayvon was one of those people who have no rights, and must be controlled, and I, the superior being must do it.â&#x20AC;? Some might believe this (the killing of Trayvon Martin) to be just an example of aberrant behavior by Mr. Zimmerman, and not reflective of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s America. But reality is that even in the year 2012, Black mothers and fathers still instruct their children, especially their sons on â&#x20AC;&#x153;how to

actâ&#x20AC;? and to â&#x20AC;&#x153;watch your backâ&#x20AC;? regarding race relations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a sad commentary of our times. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why,â&#x20AC;? we must legitimately ask, â&#x20AC;&#x153;is this kind of thing still happening?â&#x20AC;? Why in the year 2012 do we still experience a KKK syndrome whereby Blacks are assaulted and killed because of the color of their skin? Is the dream of Dr. King and my generation so remote that it bears no relation to reality or truth? What is truth in this context? Mr. Zimmerman asserts that he shot Trayvon in self-defense under Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stand Your Groundâ&#x20AC;? law, thus asserting that he has no guilt (he pleaded innocent to the murder charges against him), and therefore no justice need be meted out to him. Again, Mr. Zimmermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s justice is a far cry from the justice of Superman in the latterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dealing with good versus evil. Justice is fleeting for the disenfranchised in America. If justice in its simplest form means making things right, then we have a steep hill to climb. If anyone could claim innocence in this whole affair, it would be Trayvon. His only mistake was â&#x20AC;&#x153;walking while being black in Sanford, Florida,â&#x20AC;? which George Zimmerman determined was needful of his justice, to accuse, assault, and ultimately kill under a cloak of â&#x20AC;&#x153;stand your ground.â&#x20AC;? Lastly, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;American way,â&#x20AC;? while much improved for African Americans over conditions that existed as late as 1950, is still a work in progress. By every measure, social, cultural, economic, educational, and others we trail the majority. The American way favors those not of color, and not much is being done to change the scenario for the masses of people of color, Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s black and brown population. As the â&#x20AC;&#x153;havesâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;have-notsâ&#x20AC;? in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s America grow further apart, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;have-notsâ&#x20AC;? (the disenfranchised and marginalized who are mostly people of color) accelerate at a faster rate. In fact, the current economic paradigm tends to make true the adage that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the rich get richer, and the poor (people of color) get poorer.â&#x20AC;? Yet we fight on in the hope that better days lie ahead. Glimpses of hope and reflections of light are utterly destroyed when the â&#x20AC;&#x153;George Zimmerman Wayâ&#x20AC;? overshadows truth and justice.

Legal Lines

Teens and Sexting

Question: My child received a text from a friend that contained a graphic picture of a partially nude teenage girl. Can he get in trouble for this? Answer: Yes, he can get in trouble. This type of texting is where the term â&#x20AC;&#x153;sextingâ&#x20AC;? comes from. There is no crime in Colorado called sexting. This type of conduct, however, can be a crime called Sexual Exploitation of a Child. It is a felony and is considered a â&#x20AC;&#x153;sex offense.â&#x20AC;? Just having the sexually explicit photo on the phone of someone under the age of 18 is a felony. It is also a felony to send the photo to anyone else. That means that if an individual, including a juvenile, is convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, the individual would most likely have to register as a sex offender and receive offense-specific counseling. If anyone receives this type of text, the first thing he or she needs to do is delete the text without forwarding or replying to the text. The individual should then send a separate text message to whoever sent the text, telling that person to please never send this type of text to the individual ever again. Should there be any kind of investigation initiated, this procedure creates a record showing that the person who received the text did not forward the text to anyone and deleted it from his or her phone. The Colorado Bar Association welcomes your questions on subjects of general interest. This column is meant to be used as general information. Consult your own attorney for specifics. Send questions to the CBA Attn: Sara Crocker, 1900 Grant St., Suite 900, Denver, CO 80203 or email scrocker@cobar.org.

About Legal Lines: Legal Lines is a question and answer column provided as a public service by the Colorado Bar Association. Attorneys answer questions of interest to members of the public for their general information. About the Colorado Bar Association: The Colorado Bar Association is a voluntary bar association with nearly 18,000 members â&#x20AC;&#x201C; almost three-quarters of all attorneys in the state â&#x20AC;&#x201C; founded in 1897. The bar provides opportunities for continuing education, volunteering and networking for those in the legal profession while upholding the standards of the bar. The bar likewise works to secure the efficient administration of justice, encourage the adoption of proper legislation and perpetuate the history of the profession and the memory of its members. For more information, visit www.cobar.org.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tell them I sent you...â&#x20AC;? ~Bee Harris

The Black Immigrant And The 21st Century Black Struggle By Dedrick Muhammad Senior Director of the NAACP Economic Department

The term “African American” has

become a catchall to describe black Americans in the United States. But it obscures the more nuanced realities of black immigration to the United States. Black immigrants, whether they hail from Latin America, the Caribbean, and the African mainland, often come to the United States to escape poor conditions and find economic opportunity. As this nation struggles with immigration reform, the black immigrant community will play a prominent role in developing a socially just immigration policy. About eight percent of black immigrants are Afro-Latino, or Black Latino. Many Spanish-speaking countries have massive Afro-Latino populations, including Brazil, Columbia, Haiti, Dominican Republic and Cuba. These Latinos are diverse not only in their history and background but also in their struggles, so their reasons for migrating to the United States are many. However, the majority make the move to seek better economic opportunities for themselves and for their families. Afro-Caribbeans also immigrate to the United States to seek expanded opportunity. The term applies to people with African ancestry whose native countries are located in the Caribbean. The first wave of AfroCaribbean voluntary migration to the U.S. began in the 1930’s and has continued to this day. According to the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, this growth can be attributed to “the increasing economic hardship and disenchantment in the British West Indies and the simultaneous expansion of the U.S. economy with its relatively high wages and growing employment opportunities.” Finally, the rate of African immigration to the United States has steadily increased. According to figures from the Immigration and Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Naturalization Service, the number of African immigrants to the United States more than quadrupled in recent years, from just over 100,000 in the 1960’s and 1970’s to over 500,000 in the 1980’s and 1990’s. Today’s African migrants are increasingly interested in establishing permanent residency in the United States, a stark contrast to immigrants from the 60’s and 70’s who often intended to return home and contribute to nation-building efforts after acquiring an American education. It is no coincidence that Black immigration to the United States greatly increased after the 1960’s, whether from the Caribbean, Latin America, or Africa. Just as outright racially discriminatory laws in the United States limited the progress of African Americans throughout the history of the US, outright racially discriminatory immigration policies limited the numbers of people of color who could legally immigrate to the United States. The great influx of black immigrants in the latter half of the twentieth century is largely attributed to the liberalizing of immigration policies that occurred during the height of the civil rights movement. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, one of the lesser known civil rights bills from that era, ended the national origins quota system and opened the door for large-scale Asian, African and Latin American immigration. Over the last fifty years the children of black immigrants have become a growing part of the African American population. This can be seen in the election of the first African American president, himself the son of an African immigrant. The diversity of the black community will continue to grow in twenty-first century America. As we continue to make advances against racial inequality in the United States, the connection between today’s black freedom struggles will necessarily be connected to immigration and immigration policy.

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Movie Reviews

By Kam Williams ExcellentIIIII. Very GoodIIII.. GoodIIIIII... FairIIIIIII.. PoorIIIIIII.

No stars

REEL ACTION

proverbial “happily ever after” ending. But in the more nuanced and multilayered world of Changing the Game, entre to the Ivy League merely signals the start of a new set of challenges to be faced by this naive innercity refugee. After graduating, as warned by his wise, rapidly-expiring grandma, Darrell finds himself still tempted by the Devil and having to negotiate his

Changing the Game

Ambitious Ghetto Orphan Tested in All Ways in Sobering Coming-of-Age Saga

arrell Barnes (Sean Riggs) was dealt a horrible hand as a baby, having been abandoned by his mother after his father was shot dead on the rough streets of North Philly. At least he was lucky enough to be taken in by his paternal grandmother (Irma P. Hall), a Bible-quoting Christian who did her best to insulate the boy from the host of evils permeating their crime-infested neighborhood. Heeding her admonition to trust in the Lord, Darrell stuck to the straight and narrow as a child. He did his best to keep out of trouble, excelling in school, where he cut a sharp contrast to his best friend, Dre (Dennis L.A. White), a clueless victim of social promotion allowed to slip through the academic cracks at an early age. So, it’s no surprise that juvenile delinquent Dre would eventually drop out to become a drug kingpin, and rationalize operating such a reprehensible enterprise by liberally quoting misanthropic lines from Machiavelli like, “Kill enemies before they kill you.” Meanwhile, Darrell did good and Grandma Barnes proud by gaining admission to the prestigious Wharton Business School. In most coming-of-age sagas, the empathetic underdog’s making his way out of the ghetto would herald a

way through a different gauntlet of wickedness. With both Jesus and Machiavelli’s teachings competing for control of his mind, he goes into business with a corrupt classmate (Brandon Ruckdashel) against his better judgment. The tension builds as Darrell lets greed get the better of him to a point of no return where it’s gonna take a miracle for the ambitious brother to escape with his soul intact. Touching on a litany of timely themes, this modern morality play of Shakespearean proportions packs an emotional punch while sending a sobering message about what really matters most. Rated: R for sexuality, nudity, violence, ethnic slurs, drug use and pervasive profanity. Running Time: 103 minutes Distributor: Barnholtz Entertainment To see a trailer for Changing the Game, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMxR9DZ-suM

Ikland

1/2

Redemptive Documentary Rectifies Image of MuchMaligned African Tribe

years ago, Colin Turnbull gained widespread recognition as the author of “The Mountain People,” an eye-opening book about a little-known tribe living in a remote region of Northern Uganda near the country’s border with Kenya. His damning ethnological study indicted the Ik as selfish, loveless, sadistic monsters who bred indiscriminately, never sang, deserted their elders, laughed at each other’s misfortunes, and even fed their offspring to wild animals. Because Turnbull was the only Westerner who had studied these ostensibly-depraved natives in depth, no one was really in a position to question the veracity of the British anthropologist’s shocking findings. At least, until recently, when Cevin Soling decided to conduct his own research to determine whether the horrifying accounts of barbarism he had read in the 7th grade were really accurate. So, he assembled an intrepid film crew before embarking on a perilous trek across some very dangerous terrain marked by civil war and inaccessible by automobile in search of the selfsame natives Turnbull had dubbed the worst people in the world. The upshot of that herculean effort is Ikland, a redemptive documentary which sets the record straight about the much-maligned tribe. For, as it turns out, lo and behold, the Ik are a civilized and perfectlypolite clan, who love their neighbors, the elderly, as well as their young, judging by all the suckling babes being fed by bare-breasted, pipesmoking women in front of huts. Soling, who not only directed but narrates the film, also interviews a few

Ikland

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

village elders about what they remember of the visit decades ago by a Brit detractor who might have had an agenda. Because the Ik are so normal, what makes the picture fascinating is the filmmaker’s taxing ordeal trying to reach them. The ending soon after his arrival is almost anticlimactic, since the subjects are fairly ordinary folks, judging by African standards. A caravan to the middle of nowhere proving it’s still the same all over, good people everywhere you go.

Unrated In English, Ik, Swahili, Karamojong and Dodoth with subtitles Running Time: 96 minutes Studio: Spectacle Films Distributor: Quad Cinema To see a trailer for Ikland, visit: http://www.iklandmovie.com/?id=trailer Beasts of the Southern Wild

Beasts of the Southern Wild

Carefree Cherub Laments Climate Change in Enchanting Cautionary Parable

ix year-old Hushpuppy (Quvenzhané Wallis) is being raised under the radar in “The Bathtub,” a backwoods bayou located on the swamp side of a Louisiana levee. The self-sufficient tomboy divides her days between attending to her sickly father (Dwight Henry) and living in harmony with a handful of other hardy refugees from civilization. Hushpuppy feels sorry for children growing up on the land in nearby New Orleans because they eat fish wrapped in plastic and have been taught to fear the water. And while those city kids were caged in strollers and baby carriages during their formative years, she’s been free to explore surroundings teeming with vegetation

REEL ACTION

Magic Mike

and a menagerie of wildlife. Yet, her existence is far from idyllic, given how much she pines for the mother her ostensibly-widowed daddy explained simply “swam away” one day. The heartbroken little girl tries to fill the void via flights of fancy coming courtesy of a vivid imagination that enables her to carry on imaginary conversations with her long-lost mom. Hushpuppy’s vulnerability is further amplified by her father’s failing health and by an ominous foreboding that climate change could destabilize the eco-system of her natural habitat. For, she’s been warned by Miss Bathsheeba (Gina Montana), a sage soothsayer who also serves as her surrogate mother, that “The trees are gonna die first, then the animals, then the fish.” So unfolds Beasts of the Southern Wild, a compelling, coming-of-age parable marking the extraordinary directorial debut of Benh Zeitlin. An early entry in the Academy Awards sweepstakes, this surreal fairy tale about the prospects of the planet so richly deserves all the accolades already heaped upon it at Sundance, Cannes and other film festivals. Considerable credit must go to newcomer Quvenzhané Wallis, a talented youngster who not only portrays protagonist Hushpuppy but narrates the film as well. Like a clever cross of Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn and Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth, the movie repeatedly reminds us of a pre-pollution, pre-digital era when children were still encouraged to plunge headlong into nature to experience the world firsthand rather than artificially through electronic stimuli. A visually-enchanting fantasy shot from the perspective of a naïve waif magically untouched by the 21st Century. Rated: PG-13 for profanity, mature themes, child imperilment, disturbing images and brief sensuality

Running Time: 91 minutes Distributor: Fox Searchlight To see a trailer for Beasts of the Southern Wild, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LA6FFnjvvmg Magic Mike

Channing Tatum Stars as Reluctant Stripper in Riveting, Character-Driven Drama

hanning Tatum held a number of odd jobs before he became a matinee idol, including a brief stint as a male stripper which he might not exactly be proudest of. But rather than deny that embarrassing detour on the road to superstardom, the hunky heartthrob has opted to embrace that chapter of his checkered past by making a semi-autobiographical movie recounting his daring foray into the adult entertainment industry. The upshot of that effort is Magic Mike, a raw and revealing characterdriven drama directed by Oscar-winner Steven Soderbergh (for Traffic) who previously collaborated with Channing on the action-thriller Haywire. The two also just finished shooting A Bitter Pill, a crime caper set for an early 2013 release. Here, Channing stars as Mike Martingano, an erotic dancer who goes by the stage name Magic Mike when titillating the ladies at a seedy, Tampa dive called Xquisite. The place is managed by Dallas (Matthew McConaughey), a silky smooth operator who has promised his most popular performer 10 percent equity to follow him when he relocates the club to Miami. Trouble is Mike isn’t getting any younger, and his big plans for himself definitely don’t include stripping into his 40s like Dallas and the other members of the aging revue: Tito (Adam Rodriguez), Tarzan (Kevin Nash), Ken (Matt Bomer) and Big [bleep] Richie (Joe Manganiello). Instead, he dreams of saving up enough seed money to set himself up as a custom furniture

designer, and maybe settling down with Brooke (Cody Horn), the sister of the 19 year-old (Alex Pettyfer) he’s just recruited for Dallas. Unfolding over the course of a long, hot Florida summer, Magic Mike is such an unpredictable and palpably raw-edged adventure that you soon forget that you’re even watching actors performing on sets. In that regard, the picture is rather reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino’s similarly super-realistic Jackie Brown (1997), a masterpiece which also featured a flawed protagonist ensnared in a sticky predicament at an unpretentious oceanfront setting. Will Mike summon up the requisite resolve to extricate himself from the stripping game and thereby save his soul? Or will a financial setback cause him to rationalize moving to Miami, leaving his hopes and girlfriend behind for the sake of easy money? A compelling character study not to be missed, if only to witness the gutsy, career performance delivered by the ever-improving Channing Tatum. Rated: R for profanity, drug use, brief graphic nudity and pervasive sexuality. Running Time: 110 minutes Distributor: Warner Brothers To see a trailer for Magic Mike, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMU7s6cwxEM Prometheus

Prometheus

Archaeologists Search for Birthplace of Humanity in SciFi Horror Flick

ateline: Scotland, 2089. While spelunking along the shores of the Isle of Skye, archaeologists Charlie Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green) and Dr. Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace) discover an ancient painting etched into the ceiling of an abandoned cave. The uncanny researchers immediately discern that the primitive picture is an invitation from aliens to visit a moon located in a remote con-

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

stellation that might very well have been the birthplace of humanity. Fast-forward a few years and we find the curious couple already en route to LV-233 on a daring expedition to find proof that people were created not by God but genetically engineered by sentient beings from another galaxy. It is unclear how unearthing such evidence will affect the faith of Dr. Shaw, a devout Christian who always wears a cross that was a gift from her late father (Patrick Shaw). As the spaceship Prometheus approaches its destination, Captain Janek (Idris Elba) and his crew of sixteen are roused from a cryogenic state of hibernation by a doting, concrete blond android named David (Michael Fassbender). Upon landing, however, command of the operation is assumed by Meredith Vickers (Charlize Theron), a coldhearted, corporate executive employed by Weyland Corporation whose late CEO (Guy Pearce) underwrote the trillion-dollar mission. The trip is just a job to the jaded Vickers who is skeptical about what she refers to as “the scribbling of dirty little savages in caves.” In fact, she orders the disembarking explorers to refrain from making any direct contact with aliens. Of course, contact with alien life forms is precisely the point of Prometheus, a high body-count, horror flick directed by three-time, Oscarnominee Ridley Scott (for Gladiator, Black Hawk Down and Thelma & Louise). At this juncture, the picture proceeds to divide its time between raising probing philosophical questions about the intersection of science, religion and ethics, and gratuitous graphic depictions of body invasion, mutation, and gruesome vivisection. Although initially conceived as a prequel to Alien (1979), also directed by Scott, the movie was ultimately released as a stand alone adventure. Regardless, this riveting, visually-captivating and thought-provoking sci-fi is well-enough executed to recommend for avid sci-fi fans, even if the heavy-handed, faith-based symbolism (“Where’s my cross?” and “After all this, you still believe!”) gets to be a bit much. A thinly-veiled intro to the Alien franchise revising that classic’s tagline to suggest: In space, no one can hear you scream, except perhaps God.

Rated: R for intense violence and brief profanity. Running Time: 123 minutes Distributor: 20th Century Fox To see a trailer for Prometheus, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1byZkbNB3Jw

Langley Family Charitable Trust Scholarship Foundation

The Drs. Joseph and Alice Langley Scholarship Foundation hosted an awards reception at the Blair Caldwell Library on Saturday, June 9. Briana Nealey, Aliyah Montgomery, and Rachel Baiyee-Cady (not shown) each received checks for $1,000 to be used for the college or university of their choice.

Mayor Hancock Appoints Rowena Alegría As Communications Director

Mayor Michael B. Hancock appointed Rowena Alegría as Director of Communications. Alegría recently served as Editor and Publisher of The Denver Post’s Viva Colorado and has more than 20 years of experience in the fields of journalism and communications. Since 2006, Alegría has been leading efforts to make Viva Colorado the most influential multimedia news outlet for local Latinos. Through her leadership and management, she transformed the publication into an awardwinning and respected news outlet within the City of Denver and the Latino community. As Director of Communications, Alegría will oversee all media relations and craft and execute the administration’s internal and external communications. She began on Monday, June 18. Alegría served in several capacities over her initial 12-year career with the Denver Post, including copy editor, assistant copy desk chief and assistant business editor. Alegría is active in the Denver community, serving as president of the board of Servicios de la Raza, as a member of the Hispanic Advisory Council at Florence Crittenton High School and on planning committees for various community events. She graduated from Lincoln High School and earned her Bachelor of Arts

HATS OFF TO...

degree from Metropolitan State College of Denver, Magna Cum Laude.

Anthony Sanford Selected For Summer Programs At Emory University And CU-Boulder

Anthony Sanford, a member of Project Greer Street and junior at East High School, has been selected for the Pre-College Program at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted by one of the top 20 universities in the country, the Program considered more than 600 applicants throughout the United States. This unique summer academic program provides rising high school juniors and seniors with an exciting glimpse of academic and residential life at a top-ranked national university. Sanford was also accepted into the Business and Leadership Program at the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder. The Business and Leadership Program chose a group of 35 students from across the country to participate in a summer enrichment program focused on the development of business and leadership skills. The Program includes an image campaign project with the opportunity to win a college scholarship. Last summer, Sanford was accepted into the prestigious Telluride Association Sophomore Seminar program at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. For more information regarding Project Greer Street, email projectgreerstreet@gmail.com

Denver Health Receives $19.8 Million Innovation Award

Denver Health continues to make great strides in the world of health care and announced that it received a $19.8 million award from The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation. Through this award, the community’s integrated health care system will transform its primary care delivery system to provide individualized care to more effectively meet its patients’ medical, behavioral and social needs. This model, known as Denver Health’s 21st Century Care, will provide team-based care, coordinate care across health settings and offer selfcare support between visits enabled by health information technology (HIT) and team-based patient navigators who will reach out to patients in a

variety of ways. It also integrates physical and behavioral health services in collaboration with the Mental Health Center of Denver in existing primary care settings and creates new high-risk clinics for the most complex patients. Once in place, 21st Century Care will improve both access to quality of care for Denver Health’s largely lowincome population and lower costs by reducing avoidable emergency room and hospital visits. In addition, the new care models enable Denver Health to serve an additional 15,000 patients. Moreover, this innovative care model is projected to result in over $40.4 million in savings over a three-year period, including $12.8 million in federal savings, $3.9 million in state savings, and $23.7 million to be reinvested in the care model.

Coraima Chavez Accepted To Flight School

Coraima Chavez, a member of the Fly Girls Bessie Coleman chapter has been accepted to the Legacy Flight Academy (LFA), July 8-22 in Tuskegee, AL. The Legacy Flight Academy (LFA) is a unique, two-week aviation experience for students’ age16-19 who have already demonstrated a sincere interest in aviation. Based in historic Tuskegee, Alabama, the LFA seeks to inspire minority youth towards a military career in aviation, following in the legacy of the pioneering Tuskegee Airmen. Students will reside on campus at Tuskegee University and will receive flight instruction at Moton Field – the same site where the Tuskegee Airmen first trained over 70 years ago.

WFOC Announces 2012 Girls’ Leadership Council

The Women’s Foundation of Colorado (WFCO), a statewide organization committed to building resources and leading change so that every woman and girl in Colorado achieves her full potential, has selected 10 sophomore high school girls for the 2012 Girls’ Leadership Council (GLC). The GLC is an innovative and prestigious program created by the WFCO that inspires girls to be future leaders and philanthropists. The 2012 Girls’ Leadership Council includes: Viviana Andazola, York International High School, Thornton; Darylann Aragon, Pueblo Centennial High School, Pueblo; Audra Burke, Edison High School, Rush; Virginia

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

Sharoyn Creager, Frederick High School, Longmont; Ashlen Lemon, Heritage High School, Highlands Ranch; Nefretarie Eudora Lockley, Regis Jesuit High School, Denver; Aztzin Lopez, Denver Center for International Studies (DCIS), Denver; Kimiko McBryde, Denver School of Science & Technology, Denver; Navil Perez, York International High School, Thornton; and Jigyasa Sharma, St. Mary’s Academy, Highlands Ranch. The girls will participate in a oneweek intensive residential summer program on the University of Denver campus to take place July 29 through August 4. At the end of the GLC program, two exemplary participants will be selected to each receive a $1,500 Dottie Lamm Leadership Award.

Miller Wins Cover Girl Honor

Jocelyn Miller, former Miss Black Colorado 1984 and professional freelance model is a recent Cover Girl recipient in the May/June edition of O Magazine. As one of four winners of “The Beauty of Giving Back” contest, sponsored by Cover Girl, Miller won for her efforts to help the community and surrounding areas through her nonprofit agency, The Robert A. Miller Educational Resource Center/RAMERC; where she assists families who have difficulties in communicating with one another. Miller also volunteers countless hours for high school students with Drum line program which she started at East High School. Other honors include receiving the 7 Everyday Hero in 2009; a “Living Portrait of an African American Woman” by the National Council of Negro Women in 2010 and the Kathy Hill-Young Spirit of the Community award.

Reese Jones Walker-Dilworth

The Walker - Dilworth Insurance Agency is proud to announce the addition of it's new member to the agency, Earnest Reese., Jr.. With over 25 years of insurance underwriting experience, Earnest will contribute his knowledge and vision towards an agency that has been a staple in the community since 1992.

In May, 12 girls completed The Dr. Justina Ford Math & Science Club, marking a successful end to the inaugural school year. The club is a collaborative effort of the Friends of the Black American West Museum and Single Mothers of Color Inc., with the expressed purpose of providing support to participants in math and science. The club meets bi-weekly during the academic year and provides tutoring, review of math and science basics including hands on activities. The club’s overall goal is to encourage and expose girls, ages 8-12, to the various options and opportunities in these fields. Continuing the theme this summer, BAWM will present the 2nd annual Dr. Justina Ford Math and Science Camp for Girls on July 23-27. The goal is to increase the awareness of science

The International Summer Dance Institute (ISDI) “One Spirit Many Voices” provides expert instruction in various techniques of Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, Modern, African and Cultural Dance at the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance School. Four weeks of intensive dance training are offered Monday, July 2 to Friday, July 27. Advanced, pre-professional and professional level teen and adult students will find themselves challenged by daytime classes, while beginning and intermediate level dancers will find themselves in the evening classes. A week long Children’s Week Day Camp for dance students ages 3 to 12 runs Monday, July 9 to Friday, July 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year CPRD will host a new week long Pre-Teen Intensive for students ages 11 to 13 beginning Monday, July 9 to Friday, July 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Information, fees, registration and a full schedule of classes are available online at www.cleoparkerdance.org. Adult classes begin at $20, and Children’s Week Day Camp is $300, plus a $20 registration fee. Partial scholarships are available based on individual need. For more information, call 303-2951759.

Invest In Comfort And Earn $750 Or More For Community Group The City and County of Denver received a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to promote energy efficiency improvements in Denver for at least 6,000 residents and

Join The Crowley Foundation Scholarship Fund on their 2nd annual 5k walk/run Saturday, August 4, at Central Park in Stapleton. This will be a non-competitive, non-timed walk/run for all ages. The walk begins at 8 a.m. with check in at 7:30 a.m. The Back 2 School 5K Family Walk/Run was created to provide a friendly and healthy environment to raise money to support our young people wanting to advance their education. The Fund is one of many ways to support youth success and to build a partnership. We are seeking sponsorship from all businesses, especially colleges and universities within Colorado. This walk will be educational and fun for everyone. Come out and enjoy music, face painting, jumping castles and much more. Funds from this event will support our scholarship fund as well as help us purchase school supplies for youth throughout the city. To participate in this great educational wellness event, call Kenneth D. Crowley at 720-935-6465 or visit www.crowleyfoundation.biz for more information.

JAZZ

BLUES

DENVER A FUNK ABOVE THE REST MAHOGANY SOUL CHILD

Girls’ Math & Science Camp Slated For Late July

CPRD Host Annual International Summer Dance Institute

2nd Annual Back2School 5K Family Walk/Run

ROCKIN’N’RHYTHM

The Black American West Museum (BAWM) presents the 2012 Jamboree on Saturday, July 14 from 8 p.m. to midnight at St. Cajetan’s Event Hall at Auraria Campus. Entertainment will be Rudy Grant and the Buffalo Riders. Western attire, fancy hats and dancing boots are suggested but not required. Instructor Charles Doss will teach line dancing. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets are $40 per person in advance at the BAWM (3091 California St.) and $45 at the door. For more information, call 720-242-7428.

African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Rocky Mountain District Women in Ministry will give free women’s suits, dresses, coats, hats, purses, shoes, jewelry, children’s books and toys, and men’s clothing on Saturday, July 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 3520 Monaco Parkway, Denver, CO 80207. For more information, call Reverend Margaret McCaskill at 303321-3729.

R&B JUKE BOX

BAWM Hosts 2012 Jamboree

6th Annual Ultimate Garage Free Give-Away of Women’s Clothing And Accessories

1,200 businesses by May 2013 through the Denver Energy Challenge. The Denver Energy Challenge is a free residential and commercial energy program provided by the City and County of Denver to help residents and businesses cut energy waste, save money and improve indoor comfort. Participants receive free energy advice and access to exclusive rebates and financing for energy upgrades made to their home. The Center for ReSource Conservation (CRC) is partnering with the Denver Energy Challenge to provide energy advising services and will pay local community or neighborhood groups $15 for each participant who signs up for the program. CRC’s work is focused on single family homes in the Berkeley, Gateway/Green Valley Ranch, Montbello, Regis, Sloan’s Lake, Sunnyside, and West Highlands neighborhoods. CRC is looking for community groups in these areas who would like to earn $750 or more by having their volunteers talk to their neighbors and friends about the program. For more information, call Francesca Sanstistevan at 720-663-1436 or email fsantistevan@conservationcenter.org.

GOSPEL TRAIN

The Julius Show kicks off the Summer Concert Series with a special free 4th of July concert at Green Valley Ranch Amphitheater on Wednesday, July 4 from 8 to 9:30 p.m. The concert is followed by a spectacular fireworks show over the lake that is choreographed to popular music. The Julius Show provides an extraordinary range of dance and pop favorites, including R&B, Jazz, Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop, and Latin in an energetic, choreographed presentation. Vocalist Julius Williams not only sings some of America’s favorite ballads, but he also impersonates the voice of the artists who made the songs famous resulting in a riveting evening of entertainment. The Summer Concert Series continues on Wednesday nights July 11 through Aug. 1. For more information, visit http://www.skylineusa.com/oakwoo d.htm or call Skyline at 303-595-8747.

and its relevance in everyday life. A maximum of 15 girls, ages 8 to 13, will be accepted for the camp that will feature workshops facilitated by professionals in the math and science industry. Each day will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The week-long camp fee is $95. For more information, contact Deborah L. Sims Fard at dsimsfard@aol.com.

COLORADO

July 4th Community Concert, Fireworks Scheduled At Green Valley Ranch Amphitheater

COMMUNITY NOTES

ALL BLUES

ORIGINS: ORGY IN RHYTHM

NEWS

SO WHAT:

THE RADIO SHOW

.892 25* .9-= 25*

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

ETEENTHJAMES : ANVA HEdward OLIDAYParker James ANFRICAN BUREN AMERICAN

flecting On The Past And Planning For The Future March 19, 1935 – June 4, 2012

James Van Buren was born March

May 10, 1931 – May 25, 2012

May 22, 2006. ames Edward Parker, the third though, would be quick to tell anyone James Edward Parker departed this child of John Edward Parker Jr. and he was the most passionate with 19, 1935 in Arrow Rock Missouri. He Bythat LisaMarie Martinez life on Friday, May 25, 2012. He was Drucilla Wilder Parker was born May regard to his theocratic activities as was born to Thelma Huff and William Photos by LisaMarie Martinez proceeded in death by his grandpar10, 1931, in McCloud, Oklahoma. one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. James H. Van Buren. While in his teens he ents, his parents, one daughter, Joetta James received his formal educasymbolized his dedication to Jehovah left Arrow Rock and moved to Kansas Laverne Foxtion in on January 18, legally profit organization founded in 1963 to bster Dictionary Ward, two sons, City to pursue a granted absolute power of conOklahoma. 1992. James was an trol over their “human property.” It promote economic development, colThomas During his high a formal instruavid student of the career as a musician. also represents a time when the ances- laborated with Big Al to host Calhoun and school years he Bible and loved to While City ce or transfer ofin Kansas Stephen Paul tors of African Americans experienced Juneteenth. played the posishare what he he met and married Parker, and els.” It further the pain of instilled fear, inhumane tion of tackle for learned with othHelen M. Fuller and grandson, discipline, unconditional submission, ers. This he demon- the Dunbar ves, ones that Darryl C. they had seven chil- dependence on another Bears football strated when after and total vient to a domiChandler; two team. James’ his retirement, he dren. In 1956 Jamesbeing. human granddaughgrandmother, se represent just the “Blues became a regular founded ters, Sharon A. Juneteenth In Denver Margie Wilder, pioneer (full time rican-American Kings” to playThe the “father” of Juneteenth in Lewis and carried him to minister), devoting type of music that he Nakeyia Brownecting upon church with her Denver was a gentleman from 70 hours or more McNeal. Left to loved listening to as a as a child, conseCleburne, Texas by the name of Otha each month to of “Juneteenth cherish his quently he gave sharing the Bible’s child. James createdRice (1916-1993) and known as Patrick he historic Five memories are his life to Christ message with peo“Otha.” Every year beginning in the an unforgettable style his wife, Nancy at the Mt. Olive ple throughout the ltural center 1950s, he would put out a galvaand sound,early not just Parker; three Baptist Church Denver area. Many nized in Denver. with his voice, buttub full of red pop, watermelon, sons: Ricky of those hours were in McCloud. Mr. and items that depicted freedom in James (Amy) also as a drummer. Parker served nce spent conducting Sarah Lee Foster, a former Texas. He practiced this ritual every Parker, James played with such legends as eight years Bible studies with individuals who ebration of June employee of Charlene’s House of in Memphis TN; June 19th at his business, Rice’s T. Bone Walker, Big Joe Turner and the United were incarcerated or recently released n Texas first Beauty located in the heart of the Clarence and Oven at St., Lou Rawls.Taproom Later he participated in 2800 Welton States Army and from incarceration. James was also a Pres. Abraham James E. Parker,Edward originally fromParker and Brandon Points at 2820 Welton St., reflected on (Gwen) group andwhich duet collaborations with was given an honorable discharge. he sold in 1968. regular early morning fixture at busEmancipation Oklahoma, came to Denver in the ‘60s. this time during the late ‘60sMr. and into has eleven Parker, Denver, CO; five daughters: talents such asInIrene Reid, Good Parker children a June1993 interview, Pearl stops and park-n-ride locations, as he was enacted two He ran the American Legion, Wally the ‘70s. Foster recalled the countrySharon Viola (Kennedy) Millsap; Rockin’ Brown, Pat Metheny, Richie from previous marriages. When James others endeavored to share the Hayes Rice said that she hadand never ment representSimpson Post #29, for 18 years on the Celestine Smith; Vera Ann (Melza Sr.) wide rioting and the Black Panther Cole, Teddy Edwards and John moved to Denver, he continued his message with early morning heard of Juneteenth until sheBible’s married Jordan; Kathleen (Clyde) Williams, all ry when Gen. corner of 27th and Welton streets, movement and how it was not until Harris. walk with the Lord, most recently commuters. James was truly an Otha, that the food and drinks were of Jolietplace. II and Tayatania Brownnto Galveston, served as a meeting Colorado jazz and blues fans got to with that Abundant Lifewhich Baptist Church the late ‘70s through the ‘90s extraordinary example of courage and free and that everything was confined McNeal, Denver, CO, three brothers: Morning When Star Baptist Church icial noticeknow that him well when he moved to asked about the race riots in the faithfulness as Juneteenth he spent as much time peaked underand thethen shared to the nightclub and restaurant. She John E. (Opal) Parker was a faithful of “It was a rough peri- Jr., Witchita, KS; ary wouldDenver use in the early 1980’s. In 1985, in the ministryleadership as his healthofwould ‘70s, member he recalled, herself, Bigwhere Al andheJames remembered that there was a lot of Lawrence (Georgia) Parker, Los the Male Chorus until was no allow up until two weeks before his cessary toJames formed his own label and od. he Things happened that should not E. Parker. red soda pop and western attire durlaunched his debut album “We Will longer able to serve. Parker (as he was Angeles, CA, and Jerome B. Parker, death on June 4, 2012. have happened.” “Big Al took care of the streets and Oklahoma City, OK; one sister, Essie ing Otha’s Juneteenth celebration. be Together Again.” His second called) was affiliated with Centennial James is survived by two sons: became the first During their Juneteenth celebrabooths; myself and Parker did the B. Harkey, Phoenix, AZ, a son-in-law, album, “It’s All Over” earned James Lodge #4, The American Legion and When illness struck Otha,James Albert M. Van Buren and Eric S. Van xas – called tions, he said, “We never had a Ward, prob- Grenada, MS; thirground work, decorations, and fundHerman D. national recognition with the album the Five Points Lions Club of which “Big Al” Richardson, a Dallas native, Buren, two daughters Valarie J. Van be celebrated lem. We worked well with the fire ing,”H.said Foster. making thetook Top over 20 listthe on celebration National he was the last living charter member. ty-five grandchildren and fifteen and Marsha Alcala, two sibandBuren it continor years, only the police department, great-grandchildren and a host of Everything about the celebration Public Radio (NPR). His third album, Parker met and department, fell in love with lingsceleBobby Joe Van Buren, and ued its growth. Big Al, who had other family members and friends. ouisiana knew and the manager of safety. The viohad increased, from the attendees to “I Ain’t Doin’ Too Bad” moved James Nancy Monton. They were married brated Emancipation Day in Theresa Texas, Habernal, and t is now celelence that did occur was due to Blacks to even higher levels of recognition the sponsors. Over a three-day period, came to Denver in 1946. His grandchildren. long lists with the song “Three Handed f the country. fighting Blacks in Five Points.” they had a senior luncheon, pageant, of businesses in Five Points include being one of his top selling uneteenthWoman” is a His view on how one should hanscholarships, Gospel Fest, and venthe Minute Spot, A&J’s Coffee Shop, Hurricane season is here for some areas of the country. Other regions Summertime’s The Right Time For Electronic Payments songs. n-American dle the potential of violence at dors. the Arcade and The Top Hatters bear the brunt of flooding. Some areas of the nation are plagued by tornaBy Nicole Tiggemann when African-Several albums followed, each as Juneteenth was based upon the philosFoster attributed their success to does, and still others must deal with wildfires, severe thunderstorms, or even Supper Club. In 1966, and diverse as the last. the Five Points Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Denver regarded enjoyable as ophy of his theenough former everyone “working as a team,” despite earthquakes. Ifgrandfather, you are unfortunate to be in the path of a natural disJames’s talents eventually led to tours Business Association (FPBA), a nonWhen you arethe awaylack from home, one thing you don’t want to worry about wners wereof various cities in Europe, giving him mayor of McCloud, Okla., who wasto be interrupted because of of funding. aster, the last thing you want is for your income is how you will receive your next monthly Social Security payment. That is involved with the event. “We coordinated the effort without an evacuation or a missing mailbox. With electronic payments, you know a global fan base. Fans from around why it is important for everyone receiving Social Security or Supplemental AbouttheJuneteenth 2008 “I say have celebration andnoifmatter what. your money will bethe in your account on time funding. We never got paid,” she said. world know that James’s music Security Income (SSI) benefits to sign up for electronic payments. When on vacation, an electronic payment someone breaks the law, then takeensures payments will be Nevertheless, they had the support always reflected feelings from his The Rebirth” is on Saturday, June 14 in the his-days, almost everyone gets benefit payments electronically. These deposited into That’s your account on my time, grandfaso there’s no reason to worry about the them to jail. how heart and sounds from his soul. As of Mayor Federico Pena in the ‘80s om 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will extend from Today, 24thabout to 90 percent of all Social Security and SSI beneficiaries receive safety of your benefit or to ask a neighbor to look out for your check when one fellow musician described it, “the ther ran the city of McCloud, and Mayor Webb in the their payments electronically. That Wellington number is increasing because the law Weltonone Street. There be isthree you are away. said Parker. thing I like aboutwill his style that pavilions: ‘90s.1,Despite the benefit fact that not all busi-Social Oklahoma,” requires that by March 2013 all federal payments, including an added bonus, many banks offer free checking accounts for people , and History. Entertainment will include both you can hear him smiling.” All who AsAsone of the organizers of Security and SSI payments, be made electronically. Whether you receive nesses supported it, Juneteenth was who use direct deposit because it saves the bank the cost of processing knewas him would that performers. performers well as certainly not as agree familiar on your payment arriving into your Social Security or profitable SSI, you can depend Juneteenth, Parker saw how it evolved for everyone, according paper payments. James did indeed have a smile and a account on time, every time. If you don’t already receive electronic payy activities such as a carnival, games, rides, storyinto a celebration and said a payment faster, and Foster. She expressed a deep sense of Skip the line at thefor bank,all, save money, getin your hearty laugh that could light up a ments, there are many good reasons to sign up. For one, less money and 1998 interview with the Denver Urban e-enactments gratitude to the countless sponsors know you can depend on your payment being in the bank no matter what room. of the African American culture, time spent driving to the bank to cash your check helps you save. Second, Spectrum, “When I first came to like Coors, Budweiser, Colorado happens or where you are. You can do all of this with electronic payments. he route ofForthis year’s parade will begin at Fuller all his passion for music, James fewer paper checks, envelopes, and stamps, and less fuel to deliver the

Denver, Juneteenth was only celebratLearn more about it at www.socialsecurity.gov/deposit. National Bank, Norwest Bank, First ue and Williams Street and end at 24th Avenue checks mean savings for the government. ed by Blacks. Now people from all Interstate Bank, Bank One, Denver Street. There will be food and retail vendors as walks of life come to the Points to celeDenver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com Police Department, Fire Department,– July 2012 organization booths. An official program of the brate.” and many others. She felt 32 that “withnd times will be handed out at the event. For out the support of the city and safety He later became the president of

WHO’S WHO “AROUND TOWN” SEE MORE @

WWW.DENVERURBANSPECTRUM.COM

U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., is pictured with Congresswoman Diana DeGette and Rep. Angela Williams. Waters was in Denver for HD 7 Unity dinner on Saturday, June 23. The outspoken congresswoman’s keynote speech focused on the GOP “Attack on Women” as Waters rallies Democrats to work hard to re-elect President Obama and to ensure Democrats recapture the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives and Colorado House of Representatives.

On Saturday, June 23, 2012, The Daniels Fund presented 257 college bound young people from Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming with scholarships to attend college. Mayor Michael Hancock (Denver) served as the keynote speaker sharing with those in attendances that the Daniels Fund has awarded $93,000,000 to deserving students. Mayor Hancock spoke about his growing up in Denver and the difficulties that life dealt to his family. The Mayor further talked about how he continued to see himself being successful, going to college and defeating the odds. Photo by A’ Star’s Photography

First Lady Michelle Obama was in Colorado encouraging voters to support President Barack Obama in November. Before a filled auditorium at Arapahoe High School in Centennial, she spoke about health care, education, employment, family and stressed the importance of supporting, her husband, Barack Obama. Photo by A’ Star’s Photography Vern Howard

Around Town Denver June 2012

Actress Alfre Woodard was in Denver on the campaign trail for President Barack Obama. She is pictured with Happy Haynes and Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock. Photo by Janis Mosley

Charles Burrell was the man of the hour when several hundred spectators came out to pay tribute to his contributions at at City Park Jazz Photo by Lens of Ansar Festival.

Rosaries, Gangs And The Battle Over Religious Symbols In Schools By Charles C. Haynes, First Amendment Center

When Jake Balthazor was sent to

the office by his teacher last week,

imagine his surprise. After all, Jake hadn’t disrupted class, failed to do his homework or committed any other offense that might lead to disciplinary action at Coon Rapids High School near Minneapolis. The problem, it turned out, wasn’t with what the 15-year-old was doing, but with the black-and-silver rosary beads he was wearing. (Rosary beads are used by many Roman Catholics to offer prayers to the Virgin Mary.) What Jake sees as a religious symbol worn to honor his sick grandmother, the school district views as a possible gang symbol that could threaten school safety. Rosaries were added to the list of prohibited symbols in Coon Rapids after the school district reportedly received a memo from the local police department in May saying some gangs in the area used rosary beads as a symbol of affiliation. Although no rosary-bead gang was disrupting the school, administrators decided to make a preemptive strike. Coon Rapids school officials aren’t alone in their determination to censor rosaries and other symbols to counter gangs. Many school districts now have broad bans on head coverings, clothing, jewelry and other objects that might in some way be connected to gang membership. Rosary beads are often on the list. Much to the dismay of school administrators, religious students are pushing back. Last year, 14-year-old Jonae Devlin sought legal help after she was suspended by her Houston school district for wearing a rosary in memory of her grandmother. Two years ago in Schenectady, N.Y., 13year-old Raymond Hosier’s family filed suit after being told Raymond couldn’t wear rosary beads to honor his older brother, who had died in an accident. The Catholic rosary isn’t the only religious symbol caught in the wide safety net cast by public school anti-

gang efforts. In 1999, for example, a Mississippi school district barred Ryan Green, a Jewish 11th-grader, from wearing the Star of David. In 2003, an Oklahoma school district suspended 6th grader Nashala Hern for wearing her hijab, a head scarf she wore to observe her faith. After calling in lawyers, all of these students eventually won the right to wear symbols of their religion to school. It’s likely that Jake also will prevail should his family challenge the rosary ban in Coon Rapids. Students win these cases because the U.S. Supreme Court famously recognized in 1969 that students “do not shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate” (Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District). According to the Court, school officials may censor student religious and political expression only if they can demonstrate or reasonably forecast that the expression will cause a substantial disruption of school. The Court recognized the important interest schools have in ensuring safety. But as Tinker made clear, “undifferentiated fear or apprehension of disturbance” is not sufficient grounds to deny students their First Amendment rights. It goes without saying that administrators can and should act to keep gang activity out of schools. But sweeping prohibitions on religious head coverings, rosary beads and other religious symbols in the name of school safety is wrongheaded and unconstitutional – without strong evidence that wearing a particular symbol has caused or is very likely to cause a substantial disruption. After a school district in Nebraska told 12-year-old Elizabeth Carey last fall that she could no longer wear a necklace that resembles a rosary, a spokesman for the Omaha Catholic Archdiocese summarized the confusion and outrage felt by many parents and students. “I don’t think Christians should have to forfeit what is the symbol of love of Christ because a few people want to misuse that symbol,” Rev. Joseph Taphorn told the press. “One ought to be able to figure out whether she’s trying to promote a gang,” he added. “If she’s not, why would she be punished for her right of religious freedom and religious expression?” Amen to that. Editor’s note: Charles C. Haynes is director of the Religious Freedom Education Project at the Newseum, 555 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C., 20001. Web: firstamendmentcenter.org. E-mail: chaynes@freedomforum.org.

Apartment For Rent

Clare of Assisi and Villa Maria, a subsidized PRAC 202 probertywith one bedroom apartments for income eligible persons aged 62 years or older is accepting applications for the waiting list.

Palace Construction

is requesting bids from subcontractors and suppliers for the project below. Subcontractors will be expected WR SDUWLFLSDWH LQ 'HQYHU¶V 6HFWLRQ program for new hires.

Apply in person at 2451 W. 82nd Place Westminister, CO Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:30PM or cdall and ask for an application to be mailed to you.

ARIA APARTMENTS Denver, Colorado 72-unit Wood-Framed Apartment Project Bids are due on July 10th, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. Phone 303-777-7999 Fax 303-698-4195 7 S. Galapago St., Denver, CO 80223 For access to bid documents, contact Bob Wilson, Project Estimator at 303-777-7999 or email to Bwilson@palaceconst.com SMWBE subcontractors and vendors are encourage to bid

Applications will be processed by ndate and time as received, 303427-4406.

Palace Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer

D R E W MANNIE I L L U S T R AT I O N

STORIES THRU IMAGERY dropshadow802@aol.com • 720-621-6336

SO MUCH NEWS that if we put it all in the paper

it wouldn’t fit in your mailbox Get local and national business news updated throughout the day, top business stories form the print edition and industry-specific blogs from more than 40 industries. No time to surf? Sign up for email alerts and get the day’s top headlines delivered right to your inbox.

Breaking business news. Every business day. denverbusinessjournal.com Get 4 weeks of the print edition FREE! Call 303.803.9200 today!

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Transmission? We have your medicine!

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – July 2012

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Saturday, July 28, 2012 – 8:30am Start Time City Park – Denver, Colorado

Adjacent to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science located at Colorado Blvd. & Montview Blvd.

Walk – Join us for the 5K or take a detour with the Senior Shortcut– a one mile option. You can also join us for the Mocha Mile Family Fun Run/Walk. Run – Ready. . . Set . . . Run! Runners are invited to participate in a timed race to the finish! Learn – Visit the Health Education Expo for information about programs and resources that support active and healthy living. Entertainment provided by Mary Louise Lee Band

REGISTRATION INFORMATION Times

Registration Fees

On-site Registration 7:30 a.m. 5K Walk/Run and Senior Shortcut begin at 8:30 a.m. Mocha Mile Family Fun Walk/Run begins at 9:00 a.m. Awards Ceremony 9:30 a.m. Entertainment 10:00 a.m.

Adults and children 18 and older – $30 Children 6-17 years old and Adults 50+ – $25 Children 5 and under (no shirt) – Free Children 5 and under (with shirt) – $10 – registration still required for all children Teams of four or more people receive a discounted rate of $25 per person Note: On-site registration the day of the event is $35 per person.

Each registrant will receive a Destination Health t-shirt.

OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS LEAD SPONSOR

THE COMMUNITY INVESTMENT DIVISION OF THE GARY-WILLIAMS COMPANY

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