DUS October 2014 by Denver Urban Spectrum

Volume 28 Number 7 October 2014

Former Mayor Sheds Light on Political Climate

Wellington E. Webb Talks About The Black Vote, Midterm Elections and Why Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Proud of President Barack Obama...4

Photo by Lorenzo Dawkins

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Volume 28 Number 7

October 2014

PUBLISHER Rosalind J. Harris

GENERAL MANAGER Lawrence A. James MANAGING EDITOR Angelia D. McGowan

CONTRIBUTING COPY EDITOR Tanya Ishikawa COLUMNISTS Wanda James Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks FILM CRITIC BlackFlix.Com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charles Emmons Angelia D. McGowan Norma Paige ART DIRECTOR Bee Harris

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Cecile Perrin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lorenzo Dawkins Lens of Ansar

ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT Robin James 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 2014 by Bizzy Bee Enterprise. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The Denver Urban Spectrum circulates 25,000 copies throughout Colorado. The Denver Urban Spectrum welcomes all letters, but reserves the right to edit for space, libelous material, grammar, and length. All letters must include name, address, and phone number. We will withhold author’s name on request. Unsolicited articles are accepted without guarantee of publication or payment. Write to the Denver Urban Spectrum at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. For advertising, subscriptions, or other information, call 303-292-6446 or fax 303-292-6543 or visit the Web site at www.denverurbanspectrum.com.

The struggle is always worthwhile, if the end be worthwhile and the means honorable; foreknowledge of defeat is not sufficient reason to withdraw from the contest. –Steven Brust

This month’s Denver Urban Spectrum takes a look at the upcoming mid-term elections through the eyes of former Denver Mayor, Wellington E. Webb. The three-term mayor and first African American mayor of the City of Denver takes you behind the scenes of the inner workings of a political campaign and what it means to you, wherever you stand on the issues and wherever you reside in the city. This issue also takes a look at the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on the person battling it along with the caregivers doing their best to support them in their fight. As usual, you’ll also find striking columns and updates on happenings in the city. But before closing out this message, a note of respect is required. In August we lost an elegant trailblazer in the Honorable Edna Mosley. She was 89. We address people in certain positions with the title ‘honorable’ out of a sign of respect for the position. And rightly so. Mosley was the first African American to hold a city council seat in Aurora, Colorado. She served three four-year terms on the city council, and was a pioneer, along with her husband, John – a Tuskegee Airmen – in the civil rights movement throughout their lives. I’m proud to refer to her as “honorable” based on my personal experience working with her to organize a press conference for the Tuskegee Airmen Inc. National Convention held in Denver more than 10 years ago. Because of her leadership, along with the organizers, the press didn’t want to leave. An honorable and class act all the way. All the way. Angelia D. McGowan Managing Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Mounting Silver to Fight ISIS, Americans are Sick of This

going into Iraq. America did not make Iraq a better or safer place to live. Next, we messed up by thinking we could totally pull out and everything would be fine. Are we going to mess up again? We need to unleash a fury of shock and awe against every ISIS stronghold in Iraq and Syria. However, where does America get another trillion dollars for this assault? Then, after we think we are done, will we be ready for the Middle East blowback that will come against us? The Middle East has been plagued with tribal religious wars for thousands of years. America will never eliminate these wars. On the other side of the coin we can’t let them cut off our citizen’s heads while shaking a bloody knife at us. ISIS is a cancer. All sane, reasonable thinking countries in the world must work together to eliminate this malignancy. Our President has said other nations will be working with us in this effort. That’s very vital. We cannot be The Lone Ranger riding in on our white horse to save the day. Our horse is sick and tired of it all and lone rangers rarely succeed.

Editor: When I was a child I never got tired of watching the television program The Lone Ranger. He always rode in on his white horse Silver to save the day Most Americans are sick and tired of watching the Middle East drama about Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. Few Americans want to go to these God forsaken places and chance survival. Yet, already we have several hundred boots on the ground and we are sending more to organize Iraqi troops. I am opposed to sending ground troops. Our pilots should be strapped with enough artillery in case they have to eject from a plane. They should have a chance to either shoot their way out if they have to parachute or take their own lives. I don’t think any of our soldiers would want to be captured and beheaded. None of us want to see our troops beheaded on YouTube. Most Americans are outraged by the recent execution of our journalists. We continue to mourn September 11, 2001. We remember what terrorists did to an unsuspecting America. We grieve with the families who lost so many on that horrific day. We don’t want anything to happen like that again. Yet, few Americans are really emotionally ready to mount up and ride into the face of war. I urge the President and Congress to work together and get the job done. However in this day and time that seems to be almost like asking the Sunnis and the Shias to work together. We messed up badly by

Glenn Mollette Newburgh, IN

Editor’s note: Glenn Mollette is an American columnist and author. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group, organization or this publication. Like his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GlennMollette

Vote Like Your Grandmother

Editor: On Aug. 9, 18-year-old Michael Brown and a friend were walking

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

down a street in their own community when they were confronted by an officer for allegedly interfering with traffic. Translation: They were confronted by the officer for the crime of “walking while Black.” The end result of this racial profiling was Brown succumbing to a hail of bullets and his friend literally running for his life. As Brown turned around with his hands in the air, screaming “Don’t shoot” the officer maliciously continued to fire his service weapon, pumping Brown’s body with multiple bullets and extinguishing the life of this recent high school graduate. In a plea for justice thousands of African Americans from around the country took to the streets yelling “Hands UP! Don’t Shoot!” Communities of color have been mobilizing toward the eradication of racial profiling and the disbandment of the school to prison pipeline. Unfortunately, true progress is often delayed between the swinging pendulums of change. - Swaying from Preparation to Action. Although putting our hands up and yelling from the mountain top, “It’s not fair, I’m not guilty because I’m black,” is a relevant statement, “Hands UP! Don’t Shoot” is simply not enough, we must VOTE! Our ancestors were lynched, maimed and murdered for our right to vote. The only way to stop the swaying pendulum and ride a wave of sustainable change is through civic engagement. In the words of Rev Al. Sharpton “We don’t need another demonstration, we need legislation” Time-stamped change results in the creation of an enforced public policy. Ironically enough if we as African Continued on page 26

Editor’s note: Former Denver Mayor Wellington E. Webb is a ‘sensei’ to mayors today. Not yet ready to retire, he runs a business and political consulting practice, Webb Group International. His 28th floor office at 1660 Lincoln in Denver’s financial district looks out over the capitol dome to the south to Pikes Peak. Everyday Webb sees the vibrant city he helped to develop. In this article, he weighs in on the political climate in Colorado. Photos by Lorenzo Dawkins

A Conversation with Wellington E. Webb By Charles Emmons

The country is facing another

milestone in 2014 as the first nonwhite President of the United States, Barack Obama, winds down his second term. In 2008, we were enthusiastic and elated to contribute to his win. In 2012, we turned out again for his re-election because we believed in his principles. In 2014, Obama is not running but this election should be no less significant than others. In the end, you vote for the candidate that holds values that are important to you.

Changing Colorado Politics

In Colorado, we have tight races for governor, the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives. With no candidates having 50 percent in preelection polls, it will be a toss-up. The non-affiliated and independents will decide. “Colorado was primarily a Republican state when I started out in politics in the 70s, and I’ve lived to see it change from red to purple and then to blue,” said Wellington Webb, who served 12 years or three terms as the mayor of Denver. “And I think this upcoming election will determine whether Colorado is purple or blue.” Webb is the sage of Colorado politics, having served in the state house and elected as Denver’s first Black mayor in 1991. He understands the ebb and flow of state’s politics that

running for re-election, Webb has seen a backlash primarily against President Obama, but it has a ripple effect. Webb has empathy for the president, himself being a first. “Which is normal for anyone that’s first. All of us who have been first have experienced it,” said Webb, the first African American mayor of Denver. “As the first president of the United States who doesn’t happen to be white, I believe he has experienced more opposition; more lack of respect for the office he holds; more individuals demonstrating outrageous behavior against the protocol and decorum of the U.S. Senate and the House with people calling out, shouting and calling him a liar, which has never been done before.” President Obama has led the country through the worst recession on the road to economic recovery, and foreign affairs and international issues have been challenging. “It kind of goes back to that old joke, which mostly only old people remember…when the government is messed up at its worst is normally when we get the call to go in and fix it,” said Webb. “And that doesn’t just hold true for government. And when you add the high expectations that members of your own community have for you…which you can never meet, he has had a more difficult road.” Friend and foe scrutinize President Obama’s every action or decision, and

elected two Black lieutenant governors, George Brown (D) and the late Joe Rogers (R). We also have had a Black speaker of the House, Terrence Carroll and Black president of the State Senate, Peter Groff. “Colorado, because of its western ethic has been open to a lot of history that has been accomplished here that is beyond what people in other parts of the country can ever imagine,” said Webb, the only mayor in the U.S. to be elected by his peers to be president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National Conference of Black Mayors and the National Conference of Democratic Mayors. “If these candidates won, it was because they were good candidates who could be successful. But we also see that we’ve had a climate that has allowed those candidates to win,” said Webb. “But you could have every Black person vote for you – retired, living or dead – and you still would not have enough votes to win. Which means that obviously there were coalition politics involved; which means that Black, White, Brown, Red and Yellow were voting for the African American candidates for the offices they have been successful in achieving.”

The Obama Effect

Despite this progress, and now the “Historic 5” Black legislators serving in the State House of Representatives

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

GOP ads are rife with guilt by association. Yet, the president seems undaunted, and Webb sees him as a heroic figure. “The more they beat up on him the prouder I get, because I see him stand up and never flinch, never stoop to the level of the people who are attacking him, and he does it with intellect, and he does it with dignity and he does it with grace,” said the Kappa Alpha Psi and Delta Eta Boule fraternity member.

Voting: Know Where You Are

In the shadow of this backlash, what is the impact on Colorado elections and politics? Colorado’s voter demographics have changed. Besides turning to a blue state in the last election cycle, Independents are now the majority party according to Webb. There are more independent and unaffiliated voters than registered Democrats or Republicans. Presidential elections entail more money and resources, which leads to higher voter turnout. “We are going into 2014, the mid-term elections, and for whatever reason, a lot of the people who vote in the presidential election don’t vote in the mid-terms,” said the businessman and philanthropist. “This makes many of the individuals running who come from marginal districts much more vulnerable. And the individuals that tend not to vote in mid-term elections are typically young people, minorities,

specifically minority men.” He noted that historically women have been the most consistent voters. As minority populations broaden across the Denver metro area, it is increasingly important to know and vote for the candidate and to determine if they are in accord with your values. According to Webb the largest Black population is no longer in Denver, but in Arapahoe County, and the fastest growing Black population is in Douglas County. All government, no matter what level addresses economic development and children’s education as well as the requisite safety needs. But Webb points out that not all districts have the same focus or the same needs. “Some districts are going to be poorer than others,” said Webb, who created the Denver Health Authority to save the city’s public hospital. “In those poorer districts you are going to be looking at how do we access more job development for the individuals in the district?’ If you happen to represent an area where there’s a significant disparity in income, you are going to find those individuals are multi-colored. But if it’s a true democracy, the people that are elected to the district will be talking about income equality, because the makeup of that district is Black, White and Brown.” It becomes as much about class as race. On the other hand someone elected to a district that has a higher income, has a different horizon. “If you are living in a district where there is much higher income and many of those individuals own businesses themselves, they are looking for more business opportunities,” he said. So, in this case more emphasis might be placed on business development as opposed to individual income development. There are numerous ways to vote your interests and Webb says we have to smartly read through the political ads and the “entertainers” on television. “All politics is local to the person that is trying to determine how it effects them,” said Webb, an advocate for arts and culture, sports and historic preservation. “I think the war with ISIL is not local, but if they develop and send bombs that kill Black, White and Brown citizens, then it becomes local, but it’s also international.” Local governments will have issues that are much closer to the people. Mayor Hancock will deal with issues of development, parks and bike trails and jobs. There will always be ancillary relationships with other levels of government to get things done in our communities. “One of the goals has always been to make sure that we have enough emphasis on the politics of the day that we can get younger people

engaged that can run for office and represent our interests, because we can’t have just one person doing that. We have to have a variety of individuals that can do that. And that is what is so good about many of the people running,” said Webb. “For the Black community, political empowerment has to be about having people in place on the local government, state government, the federal government, in the judiciary where we are completely integrated into American society,” said Webb. “And then the second obligation – one that is assumed – is that issues that affect the Black community specifically, that these issues would

always be raised, because there are still so many of those continued (income) discrepancies.” Colorado is perhaps fortunate that we have Black leaders in government and the judiciary. It makes incidents in Sanford, Fla. and Ferguson, Mo. somewhat less fathomable here. Regarding whether Ferguson could happen here Webb responded, “I will never say never, but I think it will be difficult. Because it is too difficult here not to have a jury of your peers. With Ferguson it is much clearer. It is like the world passed Ferguson. It is exactly like a lot of the small towns in the south in the 1950s. The mayor said

there are no racial issues in Ferguson. There is a majority Black population, but there are no Blacks on city council, no Blacks on the police force. They’re not integrated anywhere into the government of Ferguson.” We might feel relieved because our government in Colorado is diverse up to the highest leadership levels. How to sustain this progress? By voting in every election. “Bad elected officials are normally elected by people who didn’t vote. “It’s always been my view if you didn’t vote, you brought this on yourself, so don’t complain to me. We live in a participatory process.” Continued on page 6

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A Project of American Anthropological Association

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How to Talk to Your Kids About Race: Adoptive Families | Saturday, November 1

FWD Series: Part Two: Economics of RACE/ The Health of RACE (Racial Disparities) | Tuesday, November 11

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

A Conversation with Webb Continued from page 5

Getting Your Vote: Nothing Beats a Good Ground Game

Election Day is November 4, but mail-in ballots will be going out to active voters in mid-October. Last legislative session Colorado made it easier to vote. You can now register and vote on the same day. No doubt, you have received mailers, door hangers, a knock on the door by a canvasser, or had a conversation with your neighbor urging your voter participation. Women are featured in many television ads along with their issues related to family and abortion. Political communicators are very good at their jobs, but if you don’t see yourself in those ads, there is a reason. Webb said, “Before it even starts there is 40 percent for this guy and 40 percent for this guy. The fight is always for the 20 percent. An ad might be run that looks stupid. That ad is for the 20 percent. It’s not for the 40 percent. It’s specifically targeted to the same group we are trying persuade to vote our way. At the end of the day, the ads run by Republicans and the ads run by Democrats are both going to be very good and they are going to cancel each other out. The person who gets elected is who has the most passionate workers and supporters on the ground. It’s those individuals who go talk to their neighbors. I am a ground game guy. That’s what I believe wins politics and it was reinforced in 1991 and 1995.” In essence, this really has not changed, but there are different mechanisms and technologies being used. There are numerous conversations happening besides face-to face, on Twitter, Facebook, text messaging and through targeted emails. President Obama engaged with young people in cities and on campuses who helped to elect him. The buzz was created through social media, which was an evolved ground game. Every Colorado candidate has a Twitter account where you can see activities and accomplishments. “You’ve got to have people on the ground telling your story, because no one person running for office can do that themselves,” he said. A good ground game requires commitment from the players. Even though Colorado has more Independents than registered Democrats and Republicans, Webb does not see this as totally positive. He often refers to conversations he has with his grandsons and their peers in looking at the current mindset of young voters, some wanting to remain Independents. “That is an interesting position to be in, because you are get-

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

ting the best of both worlds without being aligned with any party. And you end up voting for the individual or your choice depending upon who is put forth. But the problem with that is that you have no opportunity to help select the candidate that is then put forth,” said Webb. The caucus and primary process requires commitment from both Democrats and Republicans. “I would rather see you as a Democrat or Republican. This person represents my views and this is who I want to see running and then let them go up against the other team,” said Webb, who marvels that his grandsons could get 800 people to a party through social media in the last election cycle. “The buzz at the party was to vote for Obama. I don’t know why they were voting for Obama, but they were voting for Obama, because that was the cool thing to do. And many knew exactly why they were voting for Obama and trying to get their peers to vote as well,” said Webb. He added that the party was integrated and that his grandson’s generation is not so color conscious. “Now I am thinking how do I get them to get more political in addition to going to the party.” Webb has been political since he was his grandsons’ age. In his office, the walls are lined with memories and awards. He shared a picture from his days at the University of Colorado, with four young Black men, which included former Denver district attorney, Norm Early. “We were beginning to make our mark,” he said. Webb has long been a fighter for Democratic principles, like Social Security and health insurance. “For me it is easy. The values I hold dear are the values that Democrats fight for. I support some of these younger candidates from the Historic 5, because I believe we’re better off with them fighting for us because they represent our values.” Values and coalition politics still rule the day in Colorado. As the demographics change across the state, it becomes more difficult to get our voices heard. We must align ourselves with those candidates who share our views. Webb commented that the counties in Colorado where Cory Gardner is running the strongest are the 10 counties that wanted to secede from the state. Secession was a 19th century issue with southern states, and this is 2014. “If this was 1861 I couldn’t support someone that didn’t know whether they wanted to keep the state or country unified,” said Webb. “It goes against my values, one unified state, one unified country, and I am proud to be an American.” What do Americans do? They vote. Please exercise your right.

“My Soul is a River” Pays Tribute to Dr. Vincent Harding

On September 6, multiple

Grammy-award winner Dianne Reeves and the Bennie L. Williams Spiritual Voices joined to honor the life of Dr. Vincent Harding. More than 600 guests attended “My Soul is a River” at Denver’s Central Presbyterian Church. Jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves has lived an extraordinary storied singing career spanning more than three decades. Her breathtaking talent has touched the souls of millions of people. For all her greatness, she has an energetic middle school music teacher

communities of enslaved Africans from the 18th and 19th centuries. The group has performed this hauntingly beautiful music in the Denver area and nationally. The evening opened with a silent auction followed with a concert, showcasing the talents of both Dianne Reeves and the BLW Spiritual Voices. A VIP reception followed, completing the evening’s event.

Photos by Bernard Grant

ing her by joining the Bennie L. Williams Spiritual Voices in concert. Civil rights leader Dr. Vincent Harding, who recently passed away in May, was the Professor Emeritus at the Iliff School of Theology. BLW Spiritual Voices has gained well-deserved acclaim performing choral arrangements of spirituals, the songs that arose out of

to thank for helping her discover her passion. Reeves met Bennie L. Williams in the 70s while she was a student at Hamilton Junior High School in Denver. It was during this time, that Williams recognized Reeves’s immense talent and began nurturing her beautiful voice. Over the years, both tutor and student formed a strong friendship as they followed their paths of sharing the gift of music. Between a busy international tour schedule, Reeves committed to thank-

Dianne Reeves and friends...

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

High-Profile News Impacts “Everybody” Battling Alzheimer’s

“My uncle.” “My dad.” “My

By Angelia D. McGowan

Grandfather.” “My Grandmother.” “Pat Bowlen.” “Everybody.” These are some of the answers that walkers proudly broadcast at the finish line when asked, “Who are you walking for?” More than 10,000 people registered for the 25th Annual Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s

at Denver City Park on Saturday, Sept. 20, including Team Super Bowlen, charged with raising funds in honor of Denver Broncos owner, Pat Bowlen. In July, his wife, Annabel Bowlen, announced that the man who has owned the Broncos for 30 years would be relinquishing control of the team to fight his battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

The news came on the heels of another high-profile announcement of a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s in June from popular restaurateur Barbara Smith, known as B. Smith. She is known for turning a successful modeling career into a series of cookbooks, decorating books and a syndicated television show, which she hosted, called “B. Smith with Style.” The

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

64-year-old was one of the first Black women to grace the cover of Mademoiselle Magazine in 1976. During an interview on “60 Minutes” in June, she could not remember the year, the day or the month. However she displayed a positive spirit saying, “I’m going to do my best to make it work out for me, and for as many people that I can possibly help, too.” Their announcements, while shocking, help to raise awareness and bring attention to Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disease that cannot be cured. Linda Mitchell, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado, says the annual event is “more than a walk. It is an experience for thousands of participants in Denver to learn about Alzheimer’s disease and how to get involved with this critical cause, from advocacy opportunities and clinical trial enrollment to support programs and services.” The association is the premier source of information and support for more than 63,000 Coloradans with Alzheimer’s disease, their families and caregivers. According to the association, Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than five million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050. Mitchell adds the people who participate in the walk for “very personal reasons. Some walk to support the cause and a vision of a world without Alzheimer’s disease, others are here to support someone living with the disease or honor someone they have lost to Alzheimer’s, and some people walk because they have Alzheimer’s disease.” Raymond and Martina Frazier and their family participated in the walk in honor of Martina’s 74-year-old father who was diagnosed about six years ago. She says the family realized something wasn’t right when the former handyman couldn’t remember how to fix a door knob and would often get lost when driving. “He could not remember where he was going,” says Martina, who travels regularly to New Mexico where her father is based to help her five sisters and mother care for him. Like many families across the country, there were some in her family that were initially in denial when witnessing the symptoms. But on a trip to Colorado, it became clear. Martina says it hit “when they saw his reaction

The Frazier Family

in our home. He didn’t know where he was. He was terrified and scared.” After that experience he was taken to the doctor in Colorado and diagnosed at stage four or five. He did return to New Mexico, but before the Frazier’s visited him there they consulted with the Alzheimer’s Association in Aurora to better understand the disease. African Americans are about twice as likely as whites to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia, and Hispanics are one and a halftimes as likely, however, studies show that African Americans are less likely to have a diagnosis.

Rosalyn Reese, director of diversity and outreach, says, “Culturally speaking, both groups (African Americans and Hispanics) are likely to think Alzheimer’s disease is a normal part of aging. Consequently, ethnically diverse communities are generally diagnosed at a later stage of the disease process. Therefore, the greatest obstacle is educating people to understand the importance of early detection, to learn the 10 warning signs and talk to their doctor. Early detection matters.” Reese, whose mother-in-law battled Alzheimer’s before passing in 2013, adds, “African Americans and Latinos are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s disease more than Caucasians due to higher incidences of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. When posed with the idea of putting him in some type of assisted living, Martina’s family was opposed. “We are Spanish people, we take care of our family,” she says.

Alzheimer’s. “Don’t say ‘Do you remember me?’ You are frustrating them. Make it easier. Tell them who you are.” She says the association is a good resource for learning how to communicate in situations like this. “They’ve already got it down.” Alzheimer’s is the most expensive disease in America with costs set to skyrocket in the years ahead according to the association, which reports the growing Alzheimer’s crisis is helping bankrupt America. In 2014 the total cost of Alzheimer’s will be $214 billion, including $150 billion to Medicare and Medicaid. Only 0.25 percent of this total has been committed to Alzheimer’s research, the only path to reducing cost. Rogers has confirmed that the event surpassed its million-dollar goal. She adds that the “National Institute of Health research investments in other conditions including cancer, HIV/AIDS and Cardiovascular disease are paying off. This proven funding approach should be applied to Alzheimer’s.” Through its statewide network of offices, the association offers education, counseling, support groups and a 24-hour Helpline (1-800-272-3900) at no cost to families. They also offer care consultation, action plans and information and referral to programs like

It’s a charge that Roslyn Washington and her siblings stepped up to when their father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Washington, who cares for her 93-year-old father, Thomas Washington, says it can be detrimental if you don’t have a good support system including friends, church and family. “I don’t know how one person could do this. If you don’t have someone every day you can’t rest assured your family member is taken care of. (Knowing someone is there) takes burden off you in terms of worry,” she says. “If we are not sharing information, we are not going to get past this stuff,” says Washington regarding African American’s tendency to keep sensitive matters such as a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s private. Khristine Rogers, vice president of communications and marketing for the Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, says, “For some caregivers, the demands of care giving may cause declines in their own health. Forty-three percent of caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias reported that the physical impact of care giving was high to very high.” The Washington family started seeing the onset of the disease when their father was in his late 80s.” After retirement at 83 from Denver Public Schools, he was quite active, exercising every day. But when his children came to visit him they noticed he was moving things out in the hall. Washington says her father started “hallucinating, had slight paranoia, thinking people were after him.” He lived by himself for about a year after his diagnosis. From there he went to assisted living and is now in a home with around-the-clock care, and constant family visits. Washington says, “One thing that’s made it really hard is when you see who that person used to be and what this horrible disease has reduced them to. I feel bad for him. It frustrates him and he says he ‘doesn’t know what’s happening to me.’ He’s the proudest man I’ve ever known.” She cautions people who approach someone that they know has

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks 4. Confusion with time or place 5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships 6. New problems with words in speaking or writing 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps 8. Decreased or poor judgment 9. Withdrawal from work or social activities 10. Changes in mood and personality

short-term respite care. In addition, contributions help fund advancements in research to prevent, treat and eventually conquer this disease. For more information about the Alzheimer’s Association, contact www.alz.org/co.

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RAC E?

The Exhibit RACE: Are We So Different? Challenges Biological Assumptions and Stereotypes

The Exhibit RACE: Are We So Different? challenges biological assumptions and stereotypes. Race. What is race? What do we really know about race? Why even talk about race? Here’s what we do know: Race is a short word with a long history in the United States of America. Think of the history of America and our ideas of race together, mixed-up, and ever-changing. In reality, race is a powerful idea that was invented by society. Race is an enduring concept that has molded our nation’s economy, laws, and social institutions. It is a complex notion that has shaped each of our destinies. Though there are no biological differences among races of people, race as a concept is very real. “Our perception that who we are lies in our biology is very much a 21st century cultural construct,” says Chip Colwell, Curator of Anthropology at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. “With the spectacular advances we’ve made in DNA science and the profusion of discussion of genetics in popular culture, there is a tendency today to reduce our identity to our genes. We think that all the answers of who we are lie in biology,” he continues. “When, in fact, race is a lived experience and much more complex.” Throughout history, race developed as a psychological and social construct alongside economic and legal institutions. Religion has played a major role in what race is and has fomented a sustainable impact on Westernized societies. Consequently, as one examines how race developed in modernity, a full analysis cannot exist without engaging the entangled encounters of race and religion, particularly in the United States. Many of the ideas we now associate with race originated during the European era of exploration. Europeans like Christopher Columbus traveled overseas and encountered – and colonized or conquered – peoples in Africa, Asia, and the Americas who looked, talked, and acted much differently. Naturalists and scientists then classified these differences into systems that became the foundation for the notion of race as we know it today. In the American colonies, the first laborers were European indentured servants. When African laborers were forcibly brought to Virginia beginning in 1619, status was defined by wealth and religion, not by physical characteristics such as skin color. But over

time this would change. Suddenly physical differences mattered, and with the development of the transatlantic slave trade, landowners began replacing their temporary European laborers with enslaved Africans who were held in permanent bondage. Soon a new social structure

in the United States. The rise of “race science” supported the common belief that people who were not white were biologically inferior. The removal of Native Americans from their lands, legalized segregation, and the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II are legacies of where this thinking led.

emerged based primarily on skin color, with those of English ancestry at the “top” and African slaves and American Indians at the “bottom.” By 1776, when “all men are created equal” was written into the Declaration of Independence by a slave-holder named Thomas Jefferson, a democratic nation was born with a major contradiction about race at its core. As our new nation asserted its independence from European tyranny, blacks and American Indians were viewed as less than human and not deserving of the same liberties as whites. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the notion of race continued to shape life

Today, science tells us that all humans share a common ancestry. And while there are differences among us, we’re also very much alike. Changing demographics in the United States and across the globe are resulting in new patterns of marriage, housing, education, and employment – and new thinking about race. Yet, despite these advances, the legacy of race continues to affect us in a variety of ways. Deeply held assumptions and enduring stereotypes make us think that gaps in wealth, health, housing, education, employment, or physical ability in sports are natural. And we fail to see the privileges that some have

Harold Fields and Chip Colwell will be participating in the first RACE FWD Series on October 14 at the History Colorado Center.This installment of the six part series will focus on the Science of RACE. Fields will be the panel moderator and the discussion will focus on scientific research that there are no biological differences between races of people, yet race as a concept is very real. This panel will explore the origins of race and how it has changed over time. Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

been granted and others denied because of skin color. This creation, called race, has fostered inequality and discrimination for centuries. It has influenced how we relate to each other as human beings. The American Anthropological Association has developed this RACE exhibit, and History Colorado is hosting it, to share the complicated story of race, to unravel fiction from fact, and to encourage meaningful discussions about race in schools, in the workplace, within families, and in communities. “Racism persists precisely because people will not talk about it,” says Ed Nichols, CEO of History Colorado. “We are all impacted as human beings by this issue. With the changing demographics in Colorado and the changing attitudes toward identity in our country, we saw the opportunity through this exhibit and our programs to bring the topic of race into a conversational mode – not to highlight strife but to open and enhance communication among Colorado citizens about who we are.” “Part of the challenge is to create a new vision of who we can be in the future as people; to evolve out of the hierarchy we’ve lived for thousands of years on this planet valuing separation that created a system where a religion, a race, or a country is superior to another,” says Harold Fields, MLK Humanitarian Award winner and founder of Tuesday Night Race Group. “As a former systems engineer at IBM, I would like to see the emergence of America 2.0. That we think we are a color blind society is slumber reality,” Fields adds. “That means we are sleepwalking through life and our social and economic systems, denying the impact of our cultural paradigm and the conscious decisions we have made in this country.” Consider, Fields says, how your view of a painting can change as you examine it more closely. History Colorado invites you to do the same with race. Examine and re-examine your thoughts and beliefs about race. Join the conversation at History Colorado and help create a new narrative together. History Colorado, a Smithsonian Affiliate, inspires generations to find wonder and meaning in our past and to engage in building a better Colorado. Editor’s note: For more information, visit www.HistoryColorado.org, call 303-HISTORY (447-8679) or visit the History Colorado Center at 1200 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203. Find them on Facebook.com/HistoryColorado and on Twitter@HistoryColorado

Denver Library Reception Honors 12 African American Artists and Musicians

Twelve African Americans who have roots in Denver and excelled in the arts locally and internationally will have their photographs permanently displayed at the Blair-Caldwell African American Library in recognition of their contributions to acting, dance and music. Their photographs will be unveiled at a special reception on Friday Oct. 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the New Hope Baptist Church Family Life Center at 3701 Colorado Blvd. in Denver. National comic Shead Garrett will be the emcee and Denver’s Mary Louise Lee will provide music. Wellington and Wilma Webb, cochairs of the Friends of Blair-Caldwell African American Library Foundation, said the photographs will be permanently located in the library at 2401 Welton St. The library opened in 2003 in the historic Five Points neighborhood, and has a museum and research area that chronicles the impact of Black residents in the Mile High City and the West. The majority of the following artists who will be recognized are graduates from Denver High Schools:

Film and Television

• Pam Grier, Actress, East High School • Don Cheadle, Actor, East High School • Hattie McDaniel, Academy Award win ning actress, East High School • Joseph Phillips, Actor/political commentator, George Washington High School • Ron Pinkard, Actor, Manual High School

Dance

• Cleo Parker Robinson, George Washington High School

Music

• Dianne Reeves, Singer, George Washington High School • Phillip Bailey, Larry Dunn and Andrew Woolfolk, Singers/Band Members, Earth, Wind and Fire, all East High School graduates • Jon Platt, Music Publisher, Montbello High School • Charlie Burrell, Denver Symphony and jazz musician

Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at the Blair Caldwell Library, 2401 Welton St. in Denver. For more information, contact Syl Morgan-Smith at 303233-3321 or sylmsmith@aol.com or Peggy Wortham at worthpeggy@aol.com

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

Election Ballot Issues; 3 No’s, 1 Maybe

Three “No’s” and one “Maybe”

Op-ed by Adam Dempsey

is the clear sum total of the statewide election ballot issues in November. Here’s why. First, Amendment 67. Proponents indicate the amendment is written for a woman who lost her pregnancy due to a drunk driver and would protect women and children in the future. It clearly will not. Start here. The amendment does not require pregnant women to drive with identification signs, so we won’t drive near them. So nothing is protected. In 2007 in Michigan, a pregnant woman died in a tragic crash. Alcohol was not a factor. Under this proposed amendment, the other driver who was not hurt could be tried on a murder charge. Not because of the woman, but due to the fetus. All drivers clearly know no one has any knowledge of who is on the roads with us, so such a crash could also happen to us, with prison as the result. Your car slides on an icy road trying to stop for a red light into an intersection and a crash occurs and a pregnancy is terminated a murder charge by statute comes with it. No exceptions. Failure to stop for the red light makes you a criminal. Amendment 67 would also criminalize abortion even in the event of rape or incest. More than 150,000 voters signed the petition for this amendment. With 55 percent of registered voters in Colorado being women, this could mean nearly 80,000 signatures came from women. So just how many of them are ready to stand up and say to us they are ready to carry to term the embryo of the criminal who just

raped them as Amendment 67 will require. This amendment could also subject us to unintended consequences as well. As the ballot title is written, should anyone do anything to negatively affect a women’s fertility, you too could be a criminal – even a woman who unintentionally harms herself. As the word “unborn” in the amendment is not defined nor its scope limited, it can be argued to include unfertilized eggs as the future “unborn.” In July, a woman in Utah discarded her baby in the trash. The same thing happened recently in Colorado Springs. In the late 1980s and early 1990s we had a rash of babies in the trash here in the Denver area. Amendment 67 will not prevent this from happening again. With it in place it will happen more often thus putting even more newborns at risk from mothers who did not wish to be pregnant in the first place. Amendment 67 forces them to carry to term. Utah and Colorado have laws that allow mothers to leave babies at hospitals, fire houses, etc. and some have. However, too many don’t want their family to know they were pregnant in the first place, thus the trash. The only practical way to prevent babies in the trash from escalating again is to defeat Amendment 67 which does not give a woman any way out. Young men really need to vote against this as well. Guys attending a party that later involves intimate

moments with a woman you just met has paternity written all over it by negatively impacting your future. Amendment 67 takes away your right of choice as well should a pregnancy occur. We had to stop this previously and we need to do so again, now and again in 2016 and again in 2018, again in 2020 and every time they bring in back. A “no” vote on 67. Amendment 68 is another “no” vote. First gambling provisions do not belong in the state constitution. The Constitution is for governing and not gambling nor marijuana. Since marijuana was made legal by using the tactic of “funding public schools,” the out-of-state company in Rhode Island is seeking to do the same. We’re still waiting to see the first dollars from “grass” going to schools. Remember when mountain town casinos wanted longer hours and would give money to community colleges? Only a trickle has flowed in there. Colorado voted against a school funding referendum in 2013 and should vote “no” again regarding Amendment 68. You’ll also find on the ballot, Proposition 104 that in summary would require school board meetings with any teachers union discussing salary and benefits to be open to the public. Think about this. Would you want discussions with your employer regarding your salary and benefits to be open to all persons inside or out of the company? If this should pass, would private companies and organizations subject to federal or state employment law and your salary be next. No. Heck No on Proposition 104! Many officials are really split regarding Proposition 105. It requires the labeling of selected foods that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). My State Rep. Lois Court indicates she fears the cost of labeling would result in higher prices to get it done being passed to consumers. In addition, scientists indicate a lot of our food is already “GMO’ed” anyway.

On the other hand, I still like to know what’s in it so I can at least choose whether or not to purchase. Vote your preference on this one, but do mark it on your ballot. And while we’re at it, an election sidebar: Remember the other conservative propaganda film, “2016: Obama’s America” released just prior to the 2012 election distorting the world view of President Obama and in 2004 another propaganda film released just prior to that election as a DVD in The Denver Post on how Islam was in the process of taking over the world, etc. In the next few weeks you’ll see marketing on another film this time focusing on Colorado, the governor, etc., called “Rocky Mountain Heist.” It’s produced by Citizen’s United an outsider conservative political group in Virginia. The Colorado Secretary of State, a Republican, has deemed this film to be “electioneering communication.” Therefore under Colorado law, Citizen’s United must disclose those funding the film, and they do not want to do so, and are law suiting the state. There’s one propaganda red flag. Next time you’re at the real movies read the credits roll and you’ll see the names of those funding and insuring that film. Citizen’s United is also targeting its release just prior to this election. Timing alone says a lot as well as displaying another propaganda red flag. Citizen’s United president, David Bossie, says, “It’s like in the movie ‘The Blues Brothers,’ we’re getting the band back together.” Problem is there is no musical soundtrack in “Rocky Mountain Heist.” Doesn’t exist. And the funders of the “Blues Brothers” are in the credit roll. And Jake and Elwood weren’t taking on officials. You’ve seen this T-shirt before and need not spend any time or money viewing it again. And friends won’t let friends see it either. Make sure you vote. It’s never optional.

With your support, I’ve been able to pass key legislation that addresses x Gun safety x Foreclosure x Better access to health care x Juvenile justice x Human Trafficking Thank you for the honor of representing you and I look forward to the great things we will accomplish in the future. Sincerely, Representative Beth McCann House District 8 Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

This Election Is Too Important To Sit Out N

Op-ed by Mark Udall

ext month, Coloradans will cast their votes to choose who will represent us in the U.S. Senate. With the race still neck and neck, the stakes are just too high for any of us to sit this election out. The tragedy in Ferguson and, closer to home, the abuse in our Denver jails has shown us how hard we must continue working to make sure that every single person, no matter the color of their skin or the size of the parents’ bank account, has an equal opportunity to succeed. That’s why I’ve worked every day to stand up for working families and move Colorado forward. That means working to make college more affordable, improving access to job training programs, and fighting to make sure that no family that works hard and

plays by the rules is forced to live in poverty. That’s why I’ve fought to raise the minimum wage, something my opponent, Congressman Gardner, has stubbornly opposed. It’s why I fought to stop interest rates on federal student loans from doubling, and why I put forward a plan to allow students to refinance their current loans at lower interest rates, just like a homeowner can. I’ve also fought to fully fund Pell Grants, which hundreds of thousands of Coloradans rely on to attain a college degree. My opponent, Congressman Gardner, on the other hand, voted to slash Pell Grant funding by $5.7 billion, threatening college opportunities for 149,000 low-income students in Colorado. We also need to close the gaping skills gap that hinders too many unemployed workers from beginning new careers. Expanding job training and workforce development programs are essential to spurring economic growth, which is why I worked to pass the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which helps states and cities bolster job retraining programs. I’ve also fought against partisan efforts to place undue burden on disabled Coloradans, and am proud to be

a cosigner of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. I’ve also been a strong proponent of the Community Choice Act so that Coloradans with disabilities and older Americans can have equal access to community based attendant services. It’s issues like these that have helped me gain the support of the Greater Metro Denver Ministerial Alliance, which formally endorsed me earlier this month, and elected officials like former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb and former Denver City Council President Elbra Wedgeworth. I’ve relied on Wellington and Elbra’s friendship and counsel for more than a decade and am honored to stand with them as we fight for Colorado families. Not only do we continue to seek solutions to the struggles that have gone on for far too long, but we are also fighting to preserve the progress we have already made. Back in 1948, my Grandfather Levi Udall wrote the majority opinion on the Arizona Supreme Court that gave Native Americans the right to vote. Unfortunately, the right to vote recently suffered a significant setback as the Supreme Court issued a decision that gutted the Voting Rights Act. As recently as 2006, the Senate overwhelmingly reauthorized the Voting

Rights Act and its commitment to equal rights by a vote of 980. That’s 100 percent agreement. I will push Congress to renew the Voting Rights Act and affirm that our nation will never forget the hard-won victories of the civil rights movement. Every election is about choices, and this one will be no different. It’s about whether we choose to stand up for our community and our families, or whether we let Tea Party radicals take our state backwards. I hope you don’t sit this election out. Working together, we can continue moving Colorado forward.

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Anger By Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks D.Ac., L.Ac. B.S.

he true measure of a healthy person includes their way of dealing with emotions. Our emotions are a very powerful influencer of our mental and physical health. In traditional Chinese medicine, the emotions are given the attention they deserve as major influencers of the internal cli-

mate of an individual. Emotions affect the way internal organs perform their tasks as well as affecting metabolism, nerves, hormones, and immune functions. Emotions have such a strong influence on our health that they can cause the elevation of blood pressure, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and many other health problems are directly or indirectly related to emotional imbalances. In particular, anger is an extremely powerful emotion and deserves singular awareness. Anger – when repressed – can literally create an implosion within our bodies in the form of ischemic issues and inflamma-

tory conditions, elevated blood pressure and so forth. Chronic anger undoubtedly contributes to the development of chronic diseases. I see this pattern expressed everyday in my clinic. In traditional Chinese medicine, the liver is the organ corresponding to anger and is the first and most affected organ by this emotion. When anger is in excess or chronic, the imbalance will be a major factor in the development of many disease patterns. Suppressing anger can lead to a hyperactive sympathetic nervous system – meaning you are in a flight, fright, fight mode too often and you become stuck there

President P resident William William T. T. G Golson olson Jr. Jr.

September Se ptember 20 2014 14

Greater G reater Metro Metro Denver Denver M Ministers inisters Alliance Alliance (GMDMA) (GMDMA) O pen LLetter etter of of EEndorsement ndorsement Open

GMDMA has GMDMA has chosen chosen to to openly openly endorse endorse Senior Senior Senator Senator of of Colorado Colorado Mark Mark Udall Udall as as the the ccandidate andidate of of choice choice for for the the 2014 2014 election election of of United United States States Senator Senator for for Colorado. Colorado. Senator Udall's Senator Udall's service service since since 2009 2009 has has demonstrated demonstrated his his allegiance allegiance to to President President Obama Obama tto o lead lead our our country country and and a willingness willingness to to learn learn and and embrace embrace the the issues issues that that impact impact the the African A frican American American community community here here in in Colorado. Colorado. We look We look forward forward to to his his support support in in the the African African American American Community. Community. This endorsement endorsement also also ratifies ratifies Senator Senator Mark Mark Udall's Udall's commitment commitment to to quarterly quarterly meetings meetings This with w ith A African-American frican-American Leadership, Leadership, one one town town hall hall meeting meeting with with combined combined members members from from tthe he African-American African-American and and Hispanic Hispanic Community, Community, and and using using his his office office as Senator Senator to to support support aand nd sustain sustain new new and and ongoing ongoing initiatives initiatives to to tender tender the the needs needs in in African-American African -American and Hispanic an d H ispanic communities. communities.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

emotionally and energetically. This will ultimately create more severe disease over time. Resentment and bitterness are also significant parts of this pattern of behavior. Holistic medicine teaches that to truly cure disease, you must treat all aspects of the human biome. As humans, we are actually a universe that encompasses many different types of cellular communities, parasites, bacteria, viruses (both good and bad). And all of these microorganisms have intelligence. Therefore, you must be careful what you communicate to each cell of your body because they store information like miniature computers! You want the right information to be positive and healthy as much as possible. To be truly healthy, we must not only detoxify our bodies, but also our minds and emotions. There are many methods for doing this – both ancient and contemporary – but it takes consistent, hard work. One must be fully committed to becoming aware and conscious of his/her faults, reactions, attachments, prejudices, fears, and emotional triggers. Meditation and deep contemplation are a couple of methods used and there are many styles to choose from; and you will only need one or two. A good psychologist can help as well as a wise spiritual mentor. The bottom line is: you will progress at clearing your anger only when you put in the work. Otherwise, you will die with it! When we work to develop our highest expression of self all of the people who are closest to us also receive immediate benefit and ultimately we improve our world – both macrocosmic and microcosmic. We need to break the cycle of emotional diseases in our families and communities, so that the next generations can truly be free. To assist with your detox and resolution of anger, include drinking purified water frequently; eat plenty of fruits and green, leafy vegetables. Meditate daily and be still and quiet whenever you can to calm your nerves. Drink chamomile tea, use lavender essential oil and pray often. Remember: In order to resolve anger you must forgive yourself and others. When you forgive someone you are not condoning their behavior, you are “freeing” yourself by “letting go” of this negative emotion. When you hold on to anger, bitterness or resentment, you are victimizing yourself. No one is to blame for that except you! One Love … Editor’s note: Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks is the founder of the Moyo Healing & Cultural Center. For more information, call 303377-2511.

Colorado â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Have A Dreamâ&#x20AC;? Foundation to Present Summit Awards to Three Local High School Students

Anastasia Cordova, Omar Aden, Lorenzo Quezada-Pacheco to be honored at October 30 gala featuring the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Troupe

A nastasia Cordova of Denver

North High School, Omar Aden of

Denver South High School and Weld County High School student Lorenzo

Quezada-Pacheco each will receive the

prestigious Summit Award during the Colorado â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Have A Dreamâ&#x20AC;?

Foundation (CIHAD) October 30 gala at the Hyatt Regency Denver

Convention Center. The accolade

honors individuals who have excelled

academically, triumphed over personal obstacles, and demonstrated a per-

sonal commitment to the betterment

of community. Former Denver Bronco Reggie Rivers will be the master of ceremonies for the gala, which begins with a 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity will open the festivities with a step show and there will be a special performance by the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Troupe, which also will join the CIHAD Dreamers for a unique presentation of the song â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happy.â&#x20AC;? Dr. Elson Floyd, president of Washington State University, will be the keynote speaker at the event, which will include presentation of the foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dream Maker Award to Navin Dimond and the McHugh Award to Leslie and Noel Ginsburg. Cordova, who aspires to become a veterinarian, lives with her mother, three cousins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; two of whom joined their household following the cancerrelated death of their own mother. Her biological father has been absent from her entire life. A member of the North Viking volleyball team who hopes to join the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer squad this year, she cites math and language arts as her favorite subjects. Cordova participated in CIHADâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six-week summer 2013 program focusing on past and present civil and human rights issues that culminated in a civil rights trip to Atlanta, Birmingham and Montgomery. This past summer, she was an intern with University of Colorado-Denver working in the School of Education and Human Development as well as in the Peer Advocate Leader Office. Born in a Kenyan refugee camp,

Anastasia Cordova

Aden fled Somaliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deadly civil war with his parents and two younger siblings and traveled to America in 2004. The family has since grown to include eight siblings who all look up to their big brother as he continues to overcome lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges. In elementary school, Aden was put in special education classes, bullied for not fitting in, and told by teachers not to expect too much of himself because there was a limit to how much he could learn, yet his resolve has remained strong. He achieved a 3.35 GPA in his most recent semester at Denver South as well as a perfect attendance record. And, at the CIHAD afterschool program, his presence is a driving force for others who feed off of his energy and determination. Quezada-Pachecoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family was devastated by the loss of his mother when he was very young. In his elementary school years he struggled both academically and behaviorally, and during middle school a pattern of moving constantly and changing schools stifled his progress. Before entering high school, QuezadaPacheco and his family chose for him to move to Brighton with his older sister, Patricia, and her family. This proved to be a wise decision. He finished his freshman year and also participated on the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team. Although he is behind in a few of his classes, he completed two courses during the summer session and is close to being back on track to graduate. Looking toward the future, his goal is to own an auto mechanic shop. CIHAD believes that every child deserves a quality education and that every child has a fundamental right to reach his/her highest potential. Since its founding in 1988, CIHAD has impacted the lives of more than 650 program participants, who are affec-

Omar Aden

tionately called Dreamers, through mentoring, academic enrichment services, social-emotional supports, life skills development, global cultural exploration activities, experiential learning, community service projects, internship and corporate networking experiences, collegiate coaching, and tuition assistance for higher education. Dreamers are selected and adopted in kindergarten and are provided these

Lorenzo Quezada-Pacheco

services up and through post-secondary pursuits. Each of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit Award recipients will receive extra post-secondary educational assistance from the foundation. Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: To learn more about CIHAD visit http://www.cihadf.org/. Gala tickets are available at https://www.blacktie-colorado.com/rsvp/rsvp.cfm?eventcode=%2B %3F92%3A%27%25%27Z%20PHF%5 F%5DL%20.

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he old adage, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” is still alive and well. It is also the way to reach the heart of a community. The 2nd Annual 100 Men Who Cook black-tie gala fundraiser being held Nov. 29 at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center has gained the support of gentlemen chefs throughout the community. Billed by the organizer’s president, Chuck Moss, as “the premier black-tie event in Denver,” the 100 Men Who Cook is preparing to receive 1,000 guests this year. Moss states, “We believe this is being so well received because of the benefitting organizations. It’s a party with a purpose. We are inviting the entire community to join this year’s honorary chairman, Mayor Michael B. Hancock, and event chairman, Jerome Davis, regional vice president, Xcel Energy, to come out and support a worthy cause.” The fundraiser is benefiting three local organizations: The Struggle of Love Foundation, the Colorado Starlites Drum & Drill Team, and the Jazz C.A.F.É. (Cultivating A Future of Excellence). Each of these groups fit the mission of the 100 Men Who Cook, “to assist grassroots non-profit community organizations, whose focus is the support, education, and development of youth, by raising operating capital to sustain their goals and objectives.” The Jazz C.A.F.E. is an innovative youth music program created to positively impact youth in the Denver metropolitan area. It is designed to offer youth an opportunity to master the music genre of jazz, and to gain valuable leadership skills. Following students from grades 6 through 12, the Jazz C.A.F.E. is a very exciting venture bringing together entities that have a genuine concern for youth in the com-

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

munity. Jeffrey Young, music director, states, “For most of us, music may only be seen as a source of entertainment that increases relaxation. Children however, can respond to rhythm, learn to play a musical instrument and most importantly, they can be motivated to tap into their creativity.” The Colorado Starlites were founded in 1981 and directed by then 16year-old Teresa (Barnes) Page. One of many purposes of the Colorado Starlites is to promote positive reinforcement and discipline in youth. They exist to establish a foundation in young people in the community and set a precedence of determination and excellence that will extend far beyond their youth. Benefits from the gala will help purchase uniforms, equipment and instruments for the group. The Struggle of Love Foundation, recipient of the Colorado Fatherhood Council’s 2013 program of the year, was established in 2008. SOL was created by Joel and LaKeshia Hodge to provide community awareness, involvement and social activities, for the poor and underprivileged individuals. SOL offers alternatives to those with limited opportunities that may not qualify for any other community based assistance programs. The 100 men recruited to serve as chefs are mostly men who enjoy cooking or have one dish they prepare for special occasions. There are several professional chefs sprinkled throughout the array of doctors, artists, judges, politicians, personal trainers and every occupation you can think of. Ann Williams, chair of the host/hostess committee said, “On Nov. 29, it will be raining cooking men!” “This year a casino has been added to enhance the experience for our guests, said Moss. Our signature color is red. Continuous entertainment will feature national recording artists Surface and a DJ. We’re extremely excited.” This year’s gala sponsors include Ballard Family Mortuary, Denver Urban Spectrum, Jammin’ 101.5 FM radio and Urbandwellers. Editor’s note: For more information and to contact the 100 Men Who Cook call 800998-5984 or email info @100menwhocook.co.

Denver Is Raving About Odysseo!

On September 17, a packed audience of 2000 celebrated the Denver premiere of Cavalia’s new larger-thanlife production Odysseo. Under the gleaming White Big Top erected at the Pepsi Center, spectators of all ages were thrilled and amazed by the unique blend of equestrian arts, performing arts and high-tech theatrical effects. Sharing the colossal stage with 46 riders, acrobats, aerialists and musicians, the 62 magnificent horses stole the spotlight during this unique theatrical performance, one which ended with rapturous applause and standing ovation. The opening night performance also marked Odysseo’s 700th show since the inception of this equine spectacular in 2011. About 500 VIP patrons were treated to a delectable buffet-dining and sumptuous desserts prepared by Odysseo head chef Yves Babineau in the Rendez-Vous VIP lounge, sipping on beer, wine and champagne. After the show, they were invited to a stable tour to meet the four-legged stars, followed by a reception at the impressive Odysseo Village, capping off the magical Denver premiere. “The entire troupe and myself felt a very warm welcome from the Denver audience,” said Normand Latourelle, Cavalia’s Founder & Artistic Director. “With more than one million spectators having been touched by the beauty and majesty of Odysseo since the beginning of this colossal adventure, we are proud to finally present this feel-good show to Denver.”

With its latest creation, Cavalia pushes the limits of live entertainment with a 30-million dollar extravaganza that is wowing critics and audiences alike across North America. A veritable revolution in live performance, Odysseo is a breathtaking ode to horse and man imagined by Normand Latourelle, one of the cofounders of Cirque du Soleil. Following its run in Denver, Odysseo will continue its North American Tour in Mexico City. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Cavalia Inc. is an entertainment company that specializes in the creation, production and touring of innovative shows for audiences of all ages. Founded by Normand Latourelle, the company has an expertise in equestrian and performing arts, and is known for making the most of cutting-edge technology, multimedia and special effects, which allows for the creation of magical, unique, never-before-seen theatrical experiences. Follow Cavalia Inc.’s latest developments at www.twitter.com/cavalia or www.facebook.com/cavalia. Editor’s note: Odysseo evening and matinee performances will run through Oct. 5 at the Pepsi Center, 1522, 5th St. in Denver. For tickets and more information, visit www.cavalia.net or call 1-866-9998111. Tickets are $24.50 to $229.50 + applicable taxes and fees. Special pricing and packages are available for groups, children (2-12), juniors (13-17) and seniors (65+).

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

For Once, Let’s Have a Real Discussion about Domestic Abuse I firmly believe

By Devin Robinson

that women and men are equal. Get that? Equal. But if we expect real equality, then we need to be equal all across the board. We spend a significant amount of time focusing on what men should do while ignoring what women should as well. There are various forms of abuse: mental, verbal, and yes, physical. All abuse is wrong on both sides. Since physical abuse is more evident, we give it more attention. Because it is more detrimental when a man strikes a woman, the woman instantly becomes the victim. However, that

shouldn’t mean physical abuse from a woman towards a man should be minimized. Unfortunately we have become a society of “measurers.“ Research has shown that women lead violence over men in many categories including, spitting, slapping, kicking, grabbing, pushing, shoving, throwing things, damaging property and threatening harm. Men lead the charge in murders though. We commit 90 percent of all murders, but 80 percent of those murders are inflicted on other men. Where is the outrage? I get though. Women inflicting violence are like car accidents while men violence is like plane crashes. Car crashes happen more often with less chance of injury, while plane crashes leads to automatic investigations and fatalities. But does the physical outcome make it right? There was literally zero outrage when Beyoncé’s younger sister Solange physically attacked Jay-Z in that now infamous elevator video several months ago. Beyoncé even went on the joke about the ordeal in her new song “Flawless.“ Why was it a joke? Because Jay-Z didn’t hit her back. So it became okay. The only rhetoric and outrage that existed was the public’s desperation to know what happened; for gossip’s sake.

Whether the abuse leaves a physical mark or not, they all leave emotional wounds. A real man doesn’t hit a woman, is the new rhetoric, while a woman hitting a man is comedy. When can we begin the new rhetoric of “real humans don’t hit humans?” I believe no one should hit anyone. I oppose abuse and violence in all context, one reason why I oppose the death penalty. We simply don’t have the right to strike one another. There is an element we woefully ignore. When we are hard at work telling men to walk away, let’s also focus on what he is being told to walk away from; which, obviously, is abuse. We are ignoring the taunting, antagonizing, provoking, and verbal abuse that leads up to many physical abuse cases. We are constantly telling men to “take it,“ walk away but eventually all that bottling up is going to come out somewhere, at someone or something. It’s human nature. It’s the abuse from abuse syndrome. America keeps missing the mark when it comes to this topic. If women are going to fight for equality, then they must also be the change they would like to see. My fear is for my three sons whose ages range from 14 to 19. They could possibly face this issue in the future and I would hope that society and justice fairly deals with it.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

Here’s the thing. Just like Blacks spend so much time proving we are not racist that we make it easier for the racist to be racist, women spend a lot of time unconsciously proving they are not equal (with the wrong rhetoric) that it makes it easier for the chauvinists to be chauvinists. But I get it. In this country of “who has less are automatic victims” it also holds true in the world of domestic violence; who loses the battle is the victim, forgetting that we are in the middle of a bigger war of mankind. When we overlook taking responsibility and verbal restraint all we are really subliminally saying is women aren’t equal. We are saying women have less control over themselves than men, making men the superior being, which I don’t believe. It’s just a cop out. Emasculating of men and dehumanizing of women both have lasting consequences. But when we fail to have a real discussion and insist on real responsibility from both ends, and fail to focus on real equality, all we simply are is a bunch of perpetual hypocrites. Editor’s note: Devin Robinson is a college professor and the author of “Rebuilding the Black American Infrastructure: Making America a Colorless Nation.“ For more information, visit www.DevinRobinson.com.

BLOWING SMOKE

Gov’s Teen Campaign Blows Smoke C

By Wanda James

olorado’s “Don’t Be a Lab Rat” campaign designed to dissuade teens from marijuana use isn’t going over very well, and Colorado’s first cannabis consulting firm owned by people of color, the Cannabis Global Initiative (CGI), was the first to point out the flaws in that campaign. CGI’s public affairs team met with the director of marijuana coordination for the State of Colorado and representatives from the Sukle Ad Agency to voice its concerns over the stigma the campaign was putting forth with messaging that has no scientific backing, lacked creative influence for teens and was racially insensitivity. CGI opposed the idea of putting life-sized “jail cells” around Denver. Apparently, Congressman Jared Polis and the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) had the same concerns. According to The Denver Post’s“The Cannabist,” U.S. Rep. Jared Polis (DColo.) has strong words for Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper’s “Don’t Be a Lab Rat” campaign. “It’s a bizarre, illfated campaign,” Polis stated. “I think they need to go back to the drawing board on that one.” BVSD Superintendent Bruce Messinger had objected to “Don’t Be a Lab Rat” on the grounds that inviting teens into “a human-scale ‘rat cage’” was not the most effective way to get the campaign’s message across.” “We are pleased that Congressman Polis, Boulder and the Boulder Valley School District has rejected the lab rat cages,” says CGI Partner Tracy Williams. “CGI has offered to help the governor’s marijuana coordination team and other state agencies create a message and campaign that focuses on the positives of being responsible and

making informed choices for teens. We were immediately concerned with the lack of measurable outcomes and the lack of scientific evidence of the information on the cages. For the cost of $2 million, the campaign should have been tasked with measurable outcomes, not just negative shock value. Our team at CGI is poised to provide that leadership.” Equally important is the stigma this campaign attaches to people who are battling illnesses such as epilepsy and schizophrenia. Given that there are thousands of children coming to Colorado and are currently being treated with cannabis for Dravet syndrome (also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy, a rare and catastrophic form of intractable epilepsy that begins in infancy), we felt the campaign lacked sensitivity to the parents having to deal with the difficulties of being the first to use cannabis as treatment. It’s a treatment that has proven itself to work in many cases, as claimed by noted CNN medical expert, Dr. Sanjay Gupta. CGI also feels the campaign fails to speak to the issues surrounding the racial profiling and conviction of people of color for use and possession of cannabis. The cages are, in fact, a reminder of the issues surrounding race and incarceration of more than 660,000 people a year, of which two thirds are people of color. CGI feels the lack of sympathy or empathy for Colorado’s Black and Brown communities was troublesome. We proposed that the governor’s marijuana staff look at a more broadly focused education campaign that has true measurable, scientific and positive engagement type of messaging. Shawn Coleman, Colorado’s only African American cannabis lobbyist

and owner of 36 Solutions called the campaign “racist and classist” for suggesting pot could usher someone behind bars. “The first thing that happens is you see the illusion that cannabis use equals cage. So using marijuana equals jail,” he said. “Black and brown people, these are the people who are by and large the victims of the war on marijuana.”

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

One of the reasons some people voted for Amendment 64, Coleman argued, is that they’d grown tired of racist undertones in the war on drugs. “I don’t necessarily fault the governor’s office and their staff for not putting the pieces together,” he added. “They’re not specialists in social justice or drug policy, but they should have consulted the people who are, before they rolled this thing out.” And once again, we are not blowing smoke…. ABOUT BLOWING SMOKE - We would like to answer your questions. Please send any questions or comments to Wanda@NoBlowingSmoke.com. Blowing Smoke is written each month by Wanda James. Ms. James is the managing partner at Cannabis Global Initiative and is a leading advocate in the cannabis industry. She worked with the regulatory process to bring medical marijuana to fruition and was appointed to the Colorado Governor’s Amendment 64 Task Force Work Group. Wanda’s political and professional work on cannabis reform has led to her being featured in numerous national shows including The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, and on CNBC’s Marijuana USA. She and her husband, Scott Durrah, also own Jezebel’s Southern Bistro + Whiskey Bar in Denver.

107 New Fayola Men Experience Tradition

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SNAP Into Health

Makes it Easier to Get Healthy Food Apply or receive information right in your own neighborhood! -Food Assistance -Health Coverage . -Cooking Classes -Financial Coaching -Other Resources

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;To graduate college ready,

cheering that went on, you would have thought they

Dr. Ryan Ross presents a Fayola Man his crismson jacket.

globally competent males with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to succeed in a 21st century global society,â&#x20AC;? is the mission of Sims-Fayola International Academy-Denver. These are some of the first words you see walking through the main hallway of the academy. While Ed Koen presents a Fayola the halls are quiet, the classrooms are filled with Man his crismson and gold bowtie. booming minds eager to learn. Recently, as they were getting their Ph.Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s,â&#x20AC;? grow, the academy welNeal jokingly said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They comed 107 new young men were excited, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t to their Fayola brotherhood realize how important it is at their 3rd Annual Spartan in these young menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives Blazer Ceremony on until you see them put on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at the that crimson blazer and Fayola academy. Friends hands going through the sleevesâ&#x20AC;Śa and family accompanied new students profound moment in the lives of what to join in the celebration of their new they call Fayola men.â&#x20AC;? journey. As part of the ceremony, each One hundred seven new lives student received the schools crimson changed that night, and 107 new blazer and tie, placed on them by the young men will carry on the legacy of father figure in their life. what it means to be a Fayola man. Channel 4 News reporter and This is a movement that will go far media personality Gloria Neal emceed beyond the walls of the academy into the event and Fayola board member, higher education and onto Dr. Ryan Ross served as the evenings adulthood. keynote speaker. Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: For more information, visit â&#x20AC;&#x153;With tears in their eyes and the www.simsfayola.org.

Ask About End of Summer Specials !

Visit us at: Denver Public Library 10 W. 14th Ave. Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Focus Points 2501 E. 48th Ave. Monthly: 1st Tuesday and 3rd Wednesday, 1:45 - 3 p.m. Questions: 720-944-3666 www.DenverGov.org/SnapIntoHealth SNAP Into Health is generously supported by a grant from The Colorado Health Foundation.

Denver Urban Spectrum â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.denverurbanspectrum.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 2014

Renewed Confidence in Education

DREAM

By Amanda Kalina, Communications Manager, HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op

ometimes a little extra attention can go a long way in helping show kids they can achieve. For the last 10 years, HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op has been working hard to provide thousands of Colorado youth an opportunity to succeed in their educational pursuits by providing a learning model that focuses on individualized instruction. HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op is a blended online public K-12 charter school which delivers its curriculum through community-based Learning Centers throughout the state. For the 2014/2015 school year HOPE is operating 34 Learning Centers, with many in the Denver Metro area. Students attend Learning Centers five days a week and rotate between online lessons and face-to-face classroom instruction. The award-winning curriculum exceeds state standards. HOPE also offers low student-teacher ratios, free full-day kindergarten and is an accredited high school diploma program, with graduates going on to attend college at institutions from the University of Denver to the University of Northern Colorado and beyond. The 2014/2015 school year kicked off on Aug. 19. This year HOPE is proud to welcome back many students who have been with the program for several years as well as new students excited about what HOPE’s education model has to offer them. Addison, a ninth-grade student who has attended Hope at Tetra Academy in Lakewood for a year and half, begged her mother to come back to HOPE this year despite the fact that the family moved over the summer and Hope at Tetra Academy is not convenient. “This learning environment is much easier for me to comprehend,” said Addison. “My favorite subject is science because I like to learn new things about the world and how it works.” Last school year Addison applied her love of science and entered the HOPE Science Symposium, which is an annual event for all HOPE students statewide. Her project tested out which kind of dye provided the most color to flowers.

HOPE

Deanna Addison

“I found that red water color provided the most color to the flowers,” said Addison. “I definitely want to go to college, and I am interested in becoming an electromagnetic scientist.” Deanna, who is a new secondgrade student at Cherry Creek Hope in Denver, says she really likes this Learning Center. “I haven’t had a bad day yet,” commented Deanna. She loves the project her class did at the beginning of the year with their mentor, Ms. Cundy. They made “Who Am I” owls out of brown paper lunch bags. Inside they included items to teach classmates what is important to them. “I included a Barbie, nail polish, a necklace and baby pics with my mom,” said Deanna. “I love to play and like crafts.” HOPE is a free public education option and offers character development programs, including physical education, music, the arts and extracurricular activities such as competitive sports, specialty clubs, talent shows and more. Editor’s note: To learn more about HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op, visit hopeonline.org or call 720-402-3000. Keep up-to-date on HOPE’s latest activities by following us on Facebook (facebook.com/HopeOnlineLearningAcademyC oOp) and Twitter (twitter.com/hopeonlinelearn).

PERSEVERE Nowling! En r ol

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op is a public, free, non-profit K-12 charter school dedicated to helping students succeed. HOPE has Learning Centers in neighborhoods across Colorado. Enrollment is open now. Join us!

Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed Amendment 68 oﬀers the opportunity to help restore excellence to our schools by providing $114 million a year in new revenue for K-12 education in Colorado without raising taxes or cutting existing services. This new money for our schools will come from limited gaming at Arapahoe Park racetrack in Aurora where there has been wagering for more than twenty years – a better option than increasing our taxes. Under Amendment 68, funds will be distributed equally to every community on a per pupil basis, and school districts will have local control over how best to spend the money: Reducing class sizes

Acquiring new technology like computers and tablets for

"Our children deserve the best education available. But given the hole in our state's public schools budget, that’s not happening. Amendment 68 will help fix that, without costing my family one nickel in new taxes." Evelyn Whitlock Local Business Owner

"In our community we know how important a good education is. Amendment 68 will bring more than $114 million dollars for K-12 schools. 68 is good for all of our kids. I’m voting Yes." Lisa Garcia, Proud Mother of Four and Grandmother of Six

students and teachers

Enhancing school safety and security

Improving school buildings and facilities

To join thousands of Colorado teachers, parents, grandparents, businesses, labor organizations and citizens, visit:

VoteYESon68.com Twitter.com/VoteYESon68

Facebook.com/VoteYESon68

YES Coloradans for on 68 Better Schools Paid for by Coloradans for Better Schools, Inc.

P.O. Box 4993, Englewood, CO 80155

Clergy Leaders Ask Pardon of Rene Lima-Marin After Clerical Error Mi Casa’s Innovation Lab, located at 3399 Holly St. in Northeast Park Hill, is proud to present Emerging Entrepreneur, an exciting class for business startups interested in 1) writing a concise business plan, 2) identifying next steps for your business’ growth, and 3) learning how to pitch your business. The course will consist of 6 sessions to be offered once per week every Tuesday starting October 7 and ending November 18 from 5:30 to 8:30pm.

Faith and clergy leaders with Together Colorado held a vigil on Tuesday, Sept. 16 and asked Gov. John Hickenlooper and Attorney General John Suthers to pardon Rene LimaMarin who was sent back to prison after being released due to a clerical and turning his life completely around. More than 20 clergy leaders signed a letter asking for a pardon of Rene Lima-Marin. In 1998 Lima-Marin, age 19, was arrested for aggravated robbery of two local video stores. In 2000, he was sentenced for three charges of seconddegree kidnapping 16 years each, two first degree burglary charges 10 years each, and three aggravated robbery charges 10 years each, totaling a 98 year sentence if served consecutively. He was sentenced to 98 years. A clerical error was made and he was asked to serve a concurrent sentence of 16 years. After serving eight of the 16 years, Lima-Marin was released in April 2008, in a decision made by the Colorado State Parole Board. Since then, he turned his life completely around. He received steady work after many hardships; he got married and has two beautiful boys. He even started his own youth ministry.

We encourage any and all business startups that have been in business for at least 6 months, have monthly sales and revenue, and a viable product and/or service to register for the course. Please contact the Innovation Lab Small Business Consultant, Robert Hernández, at 303-388-8213 and request an application or you can register online at www.MiCasaResourceCenter.org/Events. The fee for the course is $150 (includes a $50 non-refundable registration & materials fee). Scholarships are available-please call to inquire to see if you will be eligible.

“My husband’s number one goal was to save as many teens he could from going down the path he did as a teenager,” said Jasmine Lima-Marin, Rene’s wife. In January of this year Lima-Marin was re-arrested and made aware of the clerical error. He is currently serving the rest of his 98-year sentence in Kit Carson Prison. In addition, Together Colorado clergy and faith leaders believe his case is one of the examples of the harsh mandatory minimum sentencing laws in Colorado.

Call today to sign up and take your business to the next level of success by calling the Mi Casa Innovation Lab at 303-388-8213. Limited spots are available!

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

Ground Rules

No Good Deed

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

REEL ACTION

Elba and Henson are effective and compelling actors, but their chops isn’t enough to save the film of a poorly written script. There’s little good to find in No Good Deed.

Editor’s note: Samantha Ofole-Prince is an award-winning writer and contributor to many national publications and is Blackflix.com’s Senior Critic-at-Large. J.R. Johnson is a journalism student at Metropolitan State University of Denver and Blackflix.com’s intern. Laurence Washington is the creator of BlackFlix.com.

No Good Deed

By Laurence Washington

araji P. Henson (Terri), a stay-athome mom/ex-domestic violence lawyer who for the sake of advancing a predicable plot, lets escaped convict Colin Evans (Idris Elba), charm his way into her home after posing as a stranded motorist in No Good Deed. Oh, did I mention that Elba’s character has a history of terrorizing women? He’s not a nice guy. A fact that the audience knows thanks to newscaster’s narrative at the beginning of the film. However, Terri doesn’t have a clue until things start going sideways in this Cape Fear wannabe.

Despite telling the parole board that he’s a changed man, Colin’s parole is denied as one board member, who associates Colin to the likes of Jeffrey Dahmer, isn’t buying his repentance. Pissed off, Colin escapes by killing his guards, and finds time to brutally beat his ex-girlfriend to death before ending up on Terri’s doorstep. What a guy, huh? No Good Deed operates as a run-ofthe-mill home-invasion thriller. There’s no delving into the mind of what makes a psychopath tick. It’s a by the numbers monster-in-the-house flick that never challenges the intelli-

gence of its audience, which would have raised the whole level of the film. That’s not to say No Good Deed doesn’t have its suspenseful moments. It does. But there are not enough of those moments, because the suspense is restricted to a handful of small set pieces. FYI: A critics screening of this film was abruptly canceled. The reason given: Screen Gems wanted to guard the uninspired plot-twist. Can you blame them? It’s the worse plot twist in the history of filmdom. Which gives credence to the fact that No Good Deed should have gone straight to DVD.

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The November Man

By Laurence Washington

ames Bond fans jonesin’ for a Brosnan/Bond fix will be disappointed with Brosnan’s current spy vehicle The November Man – a hardboiled espionage thriller set in modern Russia. Shedding his suave 007 persona, Pierce Brosnan plays hard-drinking ex-CIA agent Peter Devereaux who comes out of retirement to protect a former lover who has damaging information about Arkady Federov (Lazar Risovski) – the next president of Russia. Naturally Devereaux’s ex is murdered or there would be no point in the film. There would just be a bunch of spies standing around doing nothing for the next two hours. So here’s the rub: Devereaux’s exlover is killed by his protégé Mason, an arrogant young agent he trained in the CIA. Devereaux goes rogue and gets into a running gun battle with CIA and Russian agents as he searches

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REEL ACTION

The November Man

for Alice Fournier (Bond girl Olga Kurylenko), a relief worker, who deals with teen girls sexually trafficked from war zones. Fournier has proof that Federov was involved in human trafficking activities. Fournier and Devereaux become targets of a sexy Russian assassin (Amila Terzimehic), who does ballet splits before each assassination, and of course Mason, who relies on new assassination technology to take out the couple. However, Devereaux proves that old school techniques and a 9mm are the best way to kill spies. The November Man tries to follow the trend of the current Bourne films, but comes up short has it has a second-hand feeling with a former Bond and Bond girl. The film’s fast-pace slick editing makes it incoherent at times. And that’s too bad. I had high hopes for this film.

Drama and Deceit Form the Core of Perry’s Primetime Series By Samantha Ofole-Prince

There’s a hopeful romantic, a hardworking perfectionist, a tough straight April Parker-Jones, Amanda Clayton, Zulay Henao, Heather Hemmens & Edwina Findley

talker and a serial cheater. A series that airs on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network, Tyler Perry’s multicultural new drama “If Loving You Is Wrong” has all the right dramatic ingredients. Focusing on neighbors with numerous secrets, it interlocks the stories of several husbands, wives and friends living in an unnamed suburb, and mixes drama and suspense in a way that will be familiar to Tyler Perry fans. Drama and deceit are certainly the main ingredients and each character has a caseload of both. “The characters are seamless and diverse and everyone can identify with something going on across the different characters, races and sexes,” says Amanda Clayton, (John Carter) whose character Alex is having an affair with the next-door neighbor Randal (played by “24’s” Eltony Williams). “There isn’t just a male problem, a female problem, a Black or white problem, a poor or rich problem. There are problems across the board with everyone, and all the characters are dealing with something in this series.” With storylines ranging from sala-

cious to scandalous, the first episode of the new season (20 have been taped) opens in the middle of an affair between neighbors Randal and Alex who are almost caught while cavorting in Randal’s garage. It’s by far the juiciest story of the episode. As the story progress, we meet the rest of the characters from Aiden Turner, (“All My Children”) who plays Randal’s best friend and Alex’s husband, to other key characters that include Zulay Henao, Edwina Findley Dickerson, April Parker Jones, Octavio Pizano, Denzel Wells, Heather Hemmens, Tiffany Haddish and “Law and Order’s” Charles Malik Whitfield. Zulay Henao’s character, Esperanza, is struggling to free the reigns from a controlling and abusive ex-husband. A professional career driven woman, Kelly (Edwina Findley Dickerson), has a penchant for picking the wrong partners, while Natalie, (April Parker Jones), is the stereotypical single mother with multiple kids from different fathers who is struggling to stay afloat. Not a far-fetched role for the actress who says it’s a relatable character. “She is pretty much straightforward and what you see is what you get,” says Parker Jones. “I can relate to her so much as I was a single mum

Photo by Jeremy Cowart and Courtesy of OWN

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

with multiple kids from different fathers. That is the reality of so many women who have to juggle parenting and co-parenting.” The characters may be clichéd, but Perry’s series has broad appeal and will connect with viewers. “There are a lot of dramatic elements such as cheating and affairs,” shares Williams. “My character Randal has a serpentine nature and is always trying to work in an angle in his relationship with his wife, best friend and mistress. This is a very relationship and friendship focused drama with redeeming qualities. You can see it going so many different directions and that’s really what I think makes it very relatable.” With an excellent cast that know how to keep us engaged, the show can be applauded for giving opportunities to a wide range of talented actors and for representing a multiplicity of ethnicities. An emotional roller coaster, it’s a melodrama that will bear watching for the dramatic content and life-lessons. “If Loving You Is Wrong” is created, written, directed and executive produced by Perry, whose other series “The Haves and the Have Nots” and “Love Thy Neighbor,” are OWN’s most-watched programs.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from page 3 Americans have concern over city ordinances, policies, procedures or the lack there have, than our most powerful catalyst is to VOTE! Across the state of Colorado, you will have the chance to. You will decide the next attorney general, county and district court judges, state representatives and even our governor.“ This election year, instead of marching for Michael brown in Ferguson or Marvin Booker here in Denver. I encourage you to, pick up a pen and vote against the judges who diligently feed the incarnation pipeline. Vote for individuals like Governor Hickenlooper, Rep. Rhonda Fields and Rep. Crisanta Duran who’ve worked hard to increase the number of children who receive childcare assistance, expand health care access to all Coloradans and study how teachers of color are being recruited and retained in public education. Vote like your baby’s life depends on it, your grandmother did, and you owe it to her!

Maisha Fields Denver, CO

Your Abuse Is Not Appreciated

Editor: Much has been written in the last several weeks about men’s physical abuse of women. Former Baltimore Raven Ray Rice’s videotaped knockout of his girlfriend and the initial two-game suspension he received from the NFL prompted both outrage and, of course, an outpouring of fan support for the abuser. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell seemed to realize the gravity of the situation and changed league policy to include harsher sanctions for convicted abusers. Then, when TMZ released footage of the actual knockout punch earlier this week, which the league claims not to have seen, it seemed like even diehard professional football fans could no longer defend the league for its still weak approach to the serious issue of domestic violence. The Ravens did suspend Rice indefinitely, but at the same time, the situation ignited the victim blamers, who focused on the fact that Rice’s girlfriend, Janay Palmer, stayed with him after the attack and the two have since married. Rather than focusing on why men like Rice abuse the women they proclaim to love, the social media universe was on fire with discussion of “why she stays.” Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

None of this now ubiquitous dialogue gets at the societal factors that set the stage for domestic violence. As with the abuse, we minimize the daily harassment women endure when some men feel it is their birthright to discipline our bodies while we are in public. From sexual harassment at work and schools to the near routine cat calls women endure when simply walking in public, we are told that our bodies are titillating or inadequate and afforded the approval or disdain of harassers. And, like domestic violence, we are told it is our fault that these men can’t control their need to yell out at us. We are, like the guests and hosts of the new Fox News show Outnumbered explained, supposed to be flattered by the attention and to let “men be men.” As if vocal cord control resides only in women. Of course, also like domestic violence, some women have heard such a steady diet of this mantra that they, too, start to believe they deserve, even enjoy, such attention. I was recently the unwanted subject of a man’s attention, a man who felt I would somehow appreciate his loud and aggressive calls about my body. I did not. It made me feel sad, angry and dirty. Not least of which is because he had the gall to yell harassing comments while he was with a woman and had a baby strapped to the front of his body. No, Fox News, I don’t think he “meant it in a nice way.” I think he meant it to show his social power and because he believes he has the right to say whatever he wants to a woman. Not that far removed from an abuser if you ask me. Rather than trying to explain why Janay Rice or countless other victims of domestic violence stay with abusers, perhaps we should start having a far more serious discussion about why some men feel as though they are the police of women’s bodies in the first place. Why does a show like Outnumbered, which is supposed to be focused on women, normalize this kind of sexism? Young men need to be taught how to appreciate and treat women in far healthier ways. I fear that the current focus on victims and whether they “ask for it” continues to minimize the discussion of men, their choices, and societal approval of the degradation of women.

Laura Finley, Ph.D.

Editor’s note: Laura Finley, Ph.D., teaches in the Barry University Department of Sociology & Criminology and is syndicated by PeaceVoice.

Calling All Chefs For The 100 Men Who Cook Annual Gala

The 100 Men Who Cook Black Tie Gala will be held Nov. 29 at the Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center, 15500 E. 40th Ave. in Denver. This elegant affair is a fundraiser benefitting the Struggle of Love Foundation, the Colorado Starlites Drum & Drill team and the Jazz C.A.F.E., and will feature live entertainment, a DJ and a Casino. One hundred gentlemen chefs from throughout the community are being sought to prepare their favorite dish to be sampled by guests. Corporate executives, celebrities, athletes, military, and government officials are all welcome to participate. To register as a chef visit, www.100menwhocook.co. For more information, call Samir Paige, Chair, Chef Operations at 1-800-998-5984 ext. 105. For reserved tables or ticket information call 800-998-5984.

Contribute to “Daddy” Bruce Documentary

A documentary on the life and works of “Daddy” Bruce Randolph is in the works. Rev. Ronald Wooding is seeking your memories about Randolph by Oct. 30. When and where did you meet him? What do you remember most about him? Would you like to have your story shared with others? If so, contact Rev. Wooding at rwooding1@yahoo.com or call 720-319-1491 to leave your contact information and the best time to reach you. You may also send mail to him c/o Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church, 1595 S. Dayton Street, Aurora, Colorado 80247.

2014 DenverWorks Community Career Fair Planned

OED/Family Tree/VOA/BlairCaldwell African American Research Library will be sponsoring the 2014 DenverWorks Community Career Fair on Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library located at 2401 Welton St. in Denver. More than 40 employers will be present. For more information, email Mickie Lewis at mlewis@denverworks.org.

Coping With Being Terrorized Is Topic For Public Meeting

Denver-Rocky Mountain Association of Black Psychologists invites the public to attend their monthly community forum discussing Strategies for Coping with Being Terrorized in the African American Community. This is the first of three monthly community forums. This event will be held on

COMMUNITY NOTES

Saturday, Oct. 4 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Blair-Caldwell African American research Library located at 2401 Welton Street in Denver. For more information, call Dr. Anthony P. Young at 719-337-6409.

24th Annual PTCO Fall Craft Fair

Overland High School will host its 24th Annual PTCO Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. For more info email rheda@me.com or send text only to 303-887-6557.

Denver Water’s Citizens Advisory Committee Is Seeking New Members

There are three opening on the Denver Water’s Citizens Advisory Committee. Two of the openings are for two citizen representatives from the City and County of Denver and one representative from a public interest group. Meeting are typically held the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Board Room at Denver Water, 1600 W. 12th Ave. in Denver. Applications are due Oct. 2. For more information about the CAC and these positions, call Heather Stauffer at 303-628-6663 or email at heather.stauffer@denverwater.org

Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church Celebrates Anniversary

the Far Northeast Denver Corridor to Be Honored

Flagship Help Center and the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce Leadership Foundation will honor businesses and employers in the Far Northeast Denver corridor who have partnered with them in helping to provide job training and address unemployment in the Northeast Denver community. Guest speaker will be Colorado House District 7 Rep. Angela Williams. The fundraising event will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 15 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Embassy Suites located at 4444 Havana St. in Denver. For more information call 303-3716351.

Delta Sigma Theta Offering Free ACT Prep Workshop

Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta offering FREE ACT Prep Workshop. The workshop is being offered to 10th to 12th grade high school students and will be held on four consecutive Saturdays starting Sept. 27 at the campus of Montbello High School in Denver. Students will be provided workbooks and lunch. Space is limited. Register on line at www.denverdeltas.org. For more

Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church invites the community to join in celebration Oct. 9 to 12 of the 28th anniversary of Pastor Jules E. and First Lady Ida Gice Smith. The church is located at 1500 S. Dayton in Denver. Weeknight services start at 7 p.m. Guest speakers are scheduled to speak at the services on Sunday at 7:45 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. For more information, email champton01@aol.com

information email dacactprep@gmail.com

Owl Club of Denver Celebrates Founder’s Day Program

The Owl Club of Denver invites the community to join them as they celebrate its 73rd year in Denver at the Founder’s Day Program on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 11 a.m. at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library located at 2401 Welton St. in Denver. The program is free. Attire is business casual. Refreshments will be served. For more information contact Jeff Smith at 303-513-4437 or 303-607-2166 or by email at jeffreysmith0605@aol.com.

Volunteers Invited To Harvest A Vegetable Garden

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, in partnership with Grow Local Colorado, are looking for volunteers to join them on the evening of Saturday, Oct. 14 as they perform one final vegetable harvest and garden taken down at Harvard Gulch Park. No experience is necessary and the minimum age to volunteer is 6. To register in advance, visit www.voc.org/projects or call 303-7151010.

Do You You Know What Health Coverage Is Right for YYou?

Denver International Airport Seeking Bids for Westin Hotel and Conference Center

Denver International Airport will be seeking bids on new shopping and dining locations for the upcoming Westin Hotel and Conference Center. To support the effort DIA will provide a special free seminar for entrepreneurs during the annual DIA Day which offers a comprehensive look at how to do business at the airport. DIA Day will be held on Oct. 7 at the Renaissance Denver Hotel located at 3801 Quebec St. in Denver. Registration closes on Sept. 29 and is available on a first-come, first served basis. To register visit, www.diaday2014.eventbrite.com.

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Businesses and Employers in

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

Edna Mosley

May 31, 1925 – August 26, 2014

As we lay our beloved Edna to rest we are reminded of her plentiful life. Edna Wilson Mosley was born in Helena, Arkansas, May 31, 1925 to Edna Ames Wilson and Judge Leon Wilson. As a daughter of the south the Wilson family faced racism and considerable bigotry. Those experiences helped define her life’s work with her committed husband of 69 years, Lt. Col. John W. Mosley. She was a lifetime member of the NAACP. Edna was also a strong advocate for social change and an uplifting force for the underrepresented. From 1984-1985, she was the President and Chair of the Board of Directors for the Denver Sister Cities International, Inc. In 1987, as the chairperson, she led the highly successful Royal Pacific Cultural Exchange Project for Denver Sister Cities. She also led multiple delegations to Nairobi, Kenya. In 1988, she accompanied Governor Roy Romer on a trade mission to China to develop cultural exchange with Colorado. From 1990-1991 she was the Director of Community development for the Urban League of Metropolitan Denver, Inc. She was also instrumental in raising sizable amounts of funding for organizations in which she was dedicated. Elected in 1991 and serving 12 years as the first African-American Aurora City Council member, Edna championed several causes including; civil rights, gender equality, veteran’s affairs, housing and education. She was affiliated with the Colorado Supreme Court Nominating Commission, Fitzsimons Redevelopment Authority, and The Community College of Aurora Advisory Board. Throughout her illustrious career, she received a multitude of awards and honors, including, but not limited to; Big Sisters of Colorado, Inc., Salute to Women Award, Distinguished Alumnus of Metropolitan State University, and the Denver Urban Spectrum’s 25 Timeless Legends Award. As a member of the inaugural class, she received her first degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 1969, and in 2004 she received an honorary doctorate from Colorado State University. Edna Mosley was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She co-founded Colorado Women’s Bank in 1978. She has been a friend and mentor to several of Denver’s mayors including, Wellington E. Webb and Michael B. Hancock. She is survived by her husband John, three children; Lorette, Brian and Eric, 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her eldest son John Gregory Mosley, sister Willa Maye Griggs, and brother Col. J. Leon Wilson. August 26, 2014 marks her homecoming. She leaves behind a distinguished legacy, and will be missed. To honor her memory, the family asks that donations be made to The John W. & Edna Wilson Mosley Scholarship Fund.

Local Business Owner Passes While On Vacation During a visit to Oklahoma and doing what he enjoyed, Denty “DJ” Jones, 77, passed away on Sunday, July 27 while fixing up a home. He was the oldest child of Minister Spokane Jones and Vina Hill. In his early years he loved to write poetry and short stories. At the age of 23 he joined the Air Force where he spent many years in England. This is where he met the love of his life Ena Nattoo. To this union they had three children: Paulette, Candy and Deshawn.

Chuck Moss

As a savvy business man, he owned and managed many businesses such as Club Spice, The Ready Room, DJ’s Painting and Decorating and also Papa D’s Restaurant. His last venture was buying, fixing and flipping houses.

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Memorial services were held on August 9 at Restoration Christian Fellowship in Aurora.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

Medicare Monday Features 2015

Prices and Benefits

Each year the federal government makes changes to Medicare. Many beneficiaries are advised to go through the process of determining if they are satisfied with their current coverage with a Medicare Supplement, a Medicare Advantage Plan and/or prescription drug coverage. The Colorado Gerontological Society is sponsoring Medicare Monday on Oct. 20 and 27 as well as on Nov. 3 in 15 locations throughout Colorado. Open enrollment to change Medicare Advantage Plans and prescription drug coverage starts on October 15 and ends on December 7. Changes made during this time will be effective Jan. 1, 2015. Individuals who are new to Medicare should plan to attend a Medicare Monday to learn more about the basics, coverages, and benefits. The 2015 changes will be discussed. Other topics to be discussed include health promotion and prevention initiatives, durable medical equipment changes, and changes in reimbursement to Medicare providers. Medicare has not yet announced the Part A and B deductible. According to a news release from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in August, the Medicare Part B is expected to hold steady at $104.90 per month. Part D monthly plan premiums are expected to increase an average of $1 per month. Some of the Medicare Advantage Plans in Colorado have made changes to the provider networks. Some members are being re-assigned new physicians. Other members are experiencing problems finding physicians who are accepting new patients that are convenient and meet their expectations for care. During open enrollment, Medicare Advantage members who want to keep their “current” physician who may no longer be part of a network can sign up with a new Medicare Advantage plan or consider purchasing a Medicare Supplement. Medicare has announced changes for the 2015 Prescription Drug benefit. The annual deductible will increase to $320 per year. Beneficiaries will pay 25 percent of the cost of prescriptions for the next $2960 or approximately $740. Individuals who use more than $3280 per year in drugs will reach the coverage gap (or the donut hole). Beneficiaries will pay 65 percent of the cost of generic prescrip-

tions and 45 percent of the cost of name brand prescriptions. Individuals whose prescription drug costs exceed $7061 in 2015 will pay $2.65 for generics and $6.60 for name brand drugs. Some prescription drug companies in Colorado are making changes to the formularies. Thus beneficiaries should check their current plan to determine if the plan still meets their needs. Counselors are available to help with comparison shopping for prescription drug plans. Low income seniors whose income is less than $993/month ($1331/month for couples)from all sources and who have less than $8660 in assets ($13,750 for couples) which excludes the home, car, term life insurance policy, and irremovable burial policy can sign up for help paying for the Medicare Part B premium. These same individuals are also eligible for assistance paying for prescription drug costs. For help in applying for benefits, call 1-855-293-6911. Medicare Monday will be held on Oct. 20 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the following locations: Eaton Terrace, 333. Eaton St., Lakewood; Heritage Club of Denver, 2020 S Monroe, Denver; Montbello Manor, 4355 Carson St, Denver; Sunrise Senior Living, 10280 Sheridan Blvd, Westminster; Holly Creek, 5500 E Peakview Ave., Centennial; The Commons of Hilltop, 625 27½ Road, Grand Junction; and The Inn at Garden Plaza, 2520 International Circle, Colorado Springs. Follow-up sessions will be held on Oct. 27 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at The Bridge at Alamosa, 3407 Carroll St., Alamosa; Northglenn Senior Center, 11801 Community Center Dr, Northglenn; River Pointe of Littleton, 5225 S Prince St., Littleton; St. Andrew’s Village, 13801 E Yale Ave., Aurora; Windsor Gardens Auditorium, 595 S Clinton St., Denver. Follow-up sessions will also be held on Nov. 3 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Foothills Park and Recreation District, 6612 S. Ward St., Littleton; and Third Street Center, 520 S. 3rd St., Carbondale. Another session will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Greeley Senior Activity Center, 1010 6th St., Greeley. To schedule an individual counseling appointment or to RSVP for Medicare Monday, call 1-855-880-4777. Editor’s note: Eileen Doherty, MS has been the executive director of the Colorado Gerontological Society since 1982. She has almost 40 years of experience in education and training, advocacy, clinical practice, and research in the field of gerontology. She is an adjunct instructor at Fort Hays State University teaching non-profit management. She can be reached at 303-3333482 or at doherty001@att.net

Close Out Sale! EVERYTHING MUST GO!!!

Jess DuBois Art Gallery

Special Prices! Up to 50% OFF Sale Ends October 31, 2014 Call for an appointment:

303-292-6446

1/3 Sales Donated to Urban Spectrum Youth Foundation

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – October 2014

Available for all Holiday Events, Special Occasions and... 303.355.4979 P.O. Box 39163 H Denver CO 80239

The United Church of Montbello welcomes the community to the

Fall Festival

You Have Rights at work!

& Flea Market

Find out what they are and how you can use them at these FREE workshops presented by

Sat., October 4, 2014 11 am - 6 pm

Food & Beverages * Pumpkin Patch *Music * Inflatable rides * Clothes * Jewelry Quilted * Gifts * Cakewalk * Prizes * Face painting * Snow Cones * Karaoke Contest * Gardening tips *Dancing * And so much more!

For more info and to register call 303- 388-8213

October 15, 2014 5:30-7:30pm Know Your Rights in the Workplace x

Learn about your rights in the workplace, illegal interview questions, and workplace discrimination

Understand actions you can take when faced with illegal or unfair treatment

Discuss workplace laws impacting employees

October 22, 2014 5:30-7:30pm

Be sure to visit the animals at our new Urban Farm!

Building Rapport with a Record x

Learn about mass incarceration

Understand your rights if you have a record

Practice critical interviewing skills for reentering the workforce and how to talk to you future employer about your record

Proceeds benefit the Montbello Cooperative Food Bank Ministries 4879 Crown Blvd. (at Crown & Andrews) Denver, Colorado

For more information, call 303-373-0070 or visit us on Facebook.

Rev. Dr. James E. Fouther, Jr., Pastor

3399 Holly Street _ Denver, CO 80207 _ www.MiCasaResourceCenter.org Denver Urban Spectrum â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.denverurbanspectrum.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 2014

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