MAYA & MALIAH HOWARD
THE BALLERINA
SISTERS
MYBLACKCOLORADO ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ISSUE
ISSUE 1 | VOLUME 2 | 2020 PHOTO BY DANIELLE TRINA
3/24 FINANCING YOUR The Art of
CREATIVE PROJECTS
9/15
5:30-7:30 pm | Pikes Peak SBDC
5:30-7:30 pm | Pikes Peak SBDC
6/23
5:30-7:30 pm | Cottonwood Center for the Arts
The Art of NAVIGATING THE LAW FOR CREATIVES
12/8
The Art of APPROACHING VENUES OR GALLERIES 5:30-7:30 pm | Kreuser Gallery
T h a n k Yo u To everyone the past 3 years who made this community initiative possible. It has taken many people to bring this together. We are excited to continue growing and expanding and being an enriching resource for our community and for those seeking to work with those in our community. Thank you for believing in us and what we are doing. Teamwork makes dreams work. Brandon & Jini Bornes
Premier Sponsors Colorado Springs Utilities | csu.org Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center | pikespeaksbdc.org Cultural Office Of The Pikes Peak Region | culturaloffice.org Eastern Colorado Bank | yourfriendlybank.com Content Sponsors
Member Sponsors
Blair Caldwell Library
Darvon Godfrey
DeAnna McGrone
Black American West Museum
Marie A Heaton
Elizabeth Lee
Shirley A Stewart | Home Smart Cherrycreek
Mary Goshay
Gwendolyn Handerson
Dr. Kenneth Gilmore
Juannean Young
Gary Smith
kimberly davis
Harrison Hunter
LaDonna Welch
Joseph Williams
Maurice Cox
Cheronda & Albert Wills | Club Tilt & Grill
Kimberly Conner
Michael Mras
Dr. Lauren Penn | Pin Ppint Chiropratic Care
Amy RedCloud
Michael Williams
Makisha Boothe | SistahBiz Global
Analise Harris
Nina Britton
Andre Carbonell
Richelle Gittens
Ardesia Parr
Sabrina Cooks
Basil Williams
Sara Bornes
Chelonda Marshall
Shandra crayton
Danielle trina
Dereck Bell
Gene Henderson | Henderson Consulting Tamara Nisbeth | Reggae Pot Express Lia Nelson | Little Brown Skin Girls Dorothy Bee | Farmers Insurance Michael Arkadie | The Jazz Funk Connection
Jicelyn Johnson | Black Business Initiative Charmas Lee | Building Champions Leonard Anderson Photography Rafaell Thompson | L7 Fragrances Claudine Malcolm | World Of Wellness Dagma Le-Blanc | Realtor Leona M. Abdullah-Ward M.A. | In-Balance Tanisha Bruns | Diamond Bird Rodney & Cashmiyr Scott | Chloe Maddison Skin Studio Shawtina Lane | Brides By Tina Stanley Gbandawa | T. Rowe Price Jacob Pruitt | T. Rowe Price Rodney Gullatte | Firma IT Solutions Kara Varner | A Platinum Resume
Go to MyBlackColorado.com/Sponsors to see updated sponsor list
Our Team Of Talented Professionals Ralph McCoy
Porsha Stuckey
Brandon Bornes
Jini Bornes
Rodney Gullatte, Jr.
Graphic Designer
Assistant Editor
Editor In Chief
Brand Ambassador
Social Media Manager
PHF Design
Write Touch Consulting
BornesPro Media
BornesPro Media
Firma It Solutions
Designatphf.com
WriteTouchConsulting.com
BornesPro.com
BornesPro.com
firmaitss.com
(719) 882-1658
(719) 286-9486
(719) 629-7482
(719) 629-7482
(305) 619-8989
How We Can Help You Ellie RedCloud
Creative Marketing
Business Consultant
We share our content through videos, pictures and
RedCloud Strategic Business Consulting
stories. We utilize events, social media, email,
ChoiceConsultingllc.com
print, text and our website to distribute content.
(719) 301-5599 Comprehensive Database We are developing a one of a kind, online database. It features black business owners, Professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, community servants and civic & social organizations throughout Colorado.
Shantelle Nix Community Liason African America Youth Leadership Conference aaylc-co.org
Business Consultation Our team of professionals span across multiple industries and are here to help you excel in what you do best. Community Engagement If you are looking to get engaged in your community, we can refer you to the right organization or person to help you get connected.
Our Mission
To facilitate and cultivate a cohesive ecosystem of the local black community to inspire, innovate and connect local areas
Brandon & Jini Bornes
Founders of My Black Colorado
Motivated by Love
We often worry that we don’t
exceptional people in our community.
delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
have enough resources in our community
We need to do better. But we
It always protects, always trusts, always
to go around. When we see someone in
need to lead by example. Our love for
hopes, always perseveres. Love never
our society that does what we do but
each other needs to be greater than our
fails. When people come in contact with
does it better than us, many times we
fear of failure. If I had to simplify into
our brand, that’s what I want them to
get a little nervous. Instead of using
one word what My Black Colorado is
experience.
competition to spur on our creativity,
about, it would be LOVE! Because love
teamwork, work ethic, and innovation,
is patient, love is kind. It does not envy,
to live up to, but I believe it’s worth
we often are soo overwhelmed with our
and it does not boast, it is not proud, It
fighting for, and it’s what we need as a
fears and insecurities that we lash out.
does not dishonor others, it is not self-
community.
We gossip, we sabotage, we hurt one
seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps
another. This has happened to many
no record of wrongs. Love does not
Photo By Jeanette Falu-Bishop
It’s not an easy aspiration
MY BLACK COLORADO MAGAZINE
TABLE OF CONTENTS Arts & Entertainment Featuring some of the best creatives in Colorado, including musicians, singers, dancers, poets, rappers, painters, writers, photographers & models.
The Ballerina Sisters
Maya & Maliah Howard are amazing, multi-talented young girls who are passionate about expressing themselves through dance, and leaving a positive impact in their community
Golden Ticket Winners
These people & businesses were nominated by their peers for their outstanding customer service and rapport. Over 1,000 people voted in 24 different categories.
Diversity Of Perspective
Our community brings value to industry because we offer a different set of eyes to see the world through. Allowing different perspectives to to influence decision making can help make any industry more relevant.
10 133 136 154
Black In Denver
166
Content From Sponsors
176
Jasmine Narkita Gold is the visionary founder and artist behind Black In Denver – an incredibly poignant portrait and interview series which features Black residents of Denver, CO.
Our sponsors are essential to helping our organization be sustainable and impactful in our community.
City Data
Denver, Aurora, Lakewood
Population
2.92M
Median Age
36.6
Poverty Rate
Median Household Income
Number Of Employees
Median Property Value
3.7% Growth
2.89% Growth
8.75% Growth
1.53% Growth
$79,478
10.2%
1.63M
$420,000
In 2018, Denver-Aurora-Lakewood,
23.2% Hispanic or Latino, and 5.35% Black
degrees).
CO had a population of 2.93M people
or African American Alone. 19.8% of the
with a -median age of 36.6 and a median
people in Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO is $420,600,
household income of $79,478. Between 2017
speak a non-English language, and 93.5%
and the homeownership rate is 63.1%. Most
and 2018 the population of Denver-Aurora-
are U.S. citizens.
people in Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO
Lakewood, CO grew from 2.89M to 2.93M,
The largest universities in Denver-
commute by Drove Alone, and the average
a 1.53% increase and its median household
Aurora-Lakewood, CO are Front Range
commute time is 25.6 minutes. The average
income grew from $76,643 to $79,478, a
Community
car ownership in Denver-Aurora-Lakewood,
3.7% increase.
awarded in 2017), University of Colorado
The population of Denver-Aurora-
Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus (5,272
Lakewood, CO is 63.7% White Alone,
degrees), and University of Denver (4,562
College
(5,545
degrees
The median property value in
CO is 2 cars per household.
Read More! Compare Data From Other States
DATAUSA.IO
Pg. 8 City Data
City Data
Colorado Springs
Population
465,084
Median Age
34.6
Poverty Rate
Median Household Income
Number Of Employees
Median Property Value
7.54% Growth
3.32% Growth
6.56% Growth
1.87% Growth
$60,308
commute time to work is 20.2 minutes.
a population of 465,084 people with
Colorado Springs, CO speak a non-English
The average car ownership in Colorado
a median age of 34.6 and a median
language, and 96.4% are U.S. citizens.. The
Springs, CO is 2 cars per household.
household income of $60,308. Between
largest universities in Colorado Springs,
2015 and 2016 the population of Colorado
CO are Colorado Technical University-
place located in El Paso County, CO. It
Springs, CO grew from 456,562 to 465,084,
Online, with 5,016 graduates, University
borders Black Forest, CO; Cimarron Hills,
a 1.87% increase and its median household
of Colorado- Colorado Springs, with 2,140
CO; Fort Carson, CO; Fountain, CO;
income grew from $56,079 to $60,308, a
graduates, and Colorado College, with 552
Gleneagle, CO; Manitou Springs, CO;
7.54% increase.
graduates. The median property value in
Security-Widefield, CO; Stratmoor, CO
population
of
CO
$243,600
and 6.31% Black. 13.2% of the people in
The
Springs,
223,158
has
Colorado
13.2%
Colorado
Colorado Springs, CO is $243,600, and the
Springs, CO is 69.2% White, 17.5% Hispanic,
homeownership rate is 57.5%. The average
Colorado Springs, CO is a census
City Data Pg. 9
MUSIC - ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
FEATURES Pages 10-43
Pg. 10 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information youthonrecord.org
Stephen Brackett
Flobots | Youth On Record
Can you share what your youth record is about?
We are an organization that
seeks to address inequality and lack of access to resources and personal power by using music as a content delivery method for liberation. We take our mission seriously. We see that the young people we serve, particularly black and brown children, historically do not have the same access to resources. Many are unable even to imagine a world in which they can set their stars and determine who they want to be. We use music as our primary channel to address that inequality because that’s where young people are. Young people are engaged in music; they’re either making it or consuming it. That’s why we collaborate with them through the music medium. How did your organization get started?
Youth On Record became what it
is through a very long process. Good ideas require many hands to make it tangible and effective. We started a band called Flobots, of which I am a member. We were creating our platform as local musicians, and we decided that it wasn’t enough to
is our students because they are brilliant.
just talk about social justice. We felt like
What what are you excited about
They are hungry, and they are talented.
we should do something more to create
moving forward?
What’s also exciting is the staff itself. It’s an
a pathway. We had this desire early on
amazing group of incredible artists. Almost
as a black community. What used to
before we became a national band. We
everyone on our team is a musician, that’s
created our own nonprofit, and out of
who we attract. Our staff is probably the
that came the foundation for Youth On
Can you share what your youth record
most diverse in Colorado. When you’re in
Record.
is about?
alignment with your community, and you’re
In Denver, we are hemorrhaging
We are an organization that
really reaching out, then people from the
seeks to address inequality and lack of
What are you currently excited about?
community will come in and join you. I like
access to resources and personal power
being able to walk up in this place and
[Article Continues on Page 15]
Well, the main thing that I think
everybody who’s on staff is excited about
know that we’re doing something right.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 11
Contact Info youthonrecord.org
Pg. 12 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
[Article Continued from Page 13]
their stars and determine who they want to
by using music as a content delivery
be. We use music as our primary channel
method for liberation. We take our mission
to address that inequality because that’s
seriously. We see that the young people
where young people are. Young people are
we serve, particularly black and brown
engaged in music; they’re either making it
children, historically do not have the same
or consuming it. That’s why we collaborate
access to resources. Many are unable even
with them through the music medium.
to imagine a world in which they can set
-Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 13
Contact Info evananderis.com
MUSIC BY EVAN & EDRIS
Currently based out of Colorado,
space. They recently have been featured
Evan and Eris is an amazing brother/
on Reach Records Christmas album and
sister duo with powerful worshipful lyrics
have performed with artists such as Mali
immersed in a sonic blend of R&B, trap, and
Music, Andy Mineo, Derek Minor, Gawvi,
gospel music. In 2019, they released their
and others. In 2020, look for new music as
debut album “Seasons� which has amassed
they are geared up to release new music!!
over ___ million streams on Spotify alone.
-Written By DJ Standout
The success of their independent release garnered the attention of major labels and artists in the Gospel and Christian Hip Hop
Pg. 14 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
MUSIC BY EVAN & EDRIS
Evan & Eris
Soul, R&B, Trap, Gospel
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 15
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
JSon Martin Producer
How did you get started?
I got my start in the church when
I was very young. I was directing my own choir at the age of 15, and I just wanted to bring something different in terms of music. I moved into the secular realm and noticed how much music was lacking a different perspective, what it means to be black in America.
I feel the hip-hop genre can be a
monolith because it sticks with the same narratives about the hood, gangsters, and hustlers. I wanted to bring a different perspective and narrative to hip-hop, and bring a higher standard in music. Most people who are rappers, all they do is rap. They don’t actually have a music background. What I’ve done is taken my music theory knowledge, my sound engineering experience, my photography, and videography learning and combined it to create a real high-end product.
I’m one of the very few artists in
Colorado that is truly, in all aspects, an independent artist. Everything you hear from the recording to the engineering, mastering, songwriting, to the hook is done by myself. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Pg. 16 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Babianna
Reggae Fusion
Bibianna,
formerly
known
as
Viannason is a motivated, talented, and exotic artist. Born and raised on the island of Madagascar, Bibianna started singing & writing at a very early age.
Being from an island, Bibianna
strives to bring an island vibe in her music but she also strives to make music that you can relate to in every situations.
In 2016, Bibianna released her
most personal EP debut titled “Ça C’était Avant”. Describing details of her past as she moves on and hopes for better things in life . Few months after the release, Bibianna signed to Bentley Records, an international record label that’s based in New York City.
As she continues to grow as an
artist, Bibianna has a worldview on life and a voice with unique highlights. Through her stories, she hopes to continue to make music that bring people together but also make music that people can have fun to. -Written By Babianna
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 17
Contact Information moniquebrooksroberts.com
Monique Roberts Violinist
How did you get started?
I grew up in the church where my
mother played the piano. I had six siblings, of which five are much much older than me. One of my sisters, who’s 14 years older than me, played the violin, and her talent must have gotten stuck in my subconscience. I don’t even remember that she played, but I was told that I would sit and listen to her. Eventually, I started asking to play too. I don’t remember asking to play until I was seven or eight years old, and my mother was like, “You have to practice, and if you don’t practice, then we’re not going to take this serious.” I just begged and begged and begged, and then finally, my mom got me a violin.
When I got that violin, it just
instantly became my life. I loved it. I would go to sleep thinking about it. I’d wake up thinking about practicing, and I excelled pretty quickly. I started taking private lessons a year later and continued my lessons through elementary and high school. Then I decided to go to college and study it full-time. That’s where I got my start playing classical. I had the unique skill set of playing by ear, so it was easy also to become classically trained. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Pg. 18 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information rajdulari.com
Radjdulari Jazz Singer
How did you get into music?
I started performing when I was
three. My grandfather was a pastor, and my mother was a choir director. I used to stand on a milk carton and sing in front of the choir. I love gospel music. I grew up listening to Gospel, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan. When I would be alone, I would listen to music. I felt like the music was more of my best friend than just something to listen to. But I never really thought
I could perform
music professionally until I was about seventeen. One of my teachers heard me singing and asked me to perform. Soon after that, I had my first Jazz gig at just seventeen! I’ve been performing ever since. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 19
Contact Information iamsuch.com
Such
Rhythm & Blues What do you do?
I’m a singer, songwriter, and
actress out of Denver. What I do is give back to humanity through music. Until January of 2012, I was a nurse. People think nursing and singing are two completely different things on opposite ends of the spectrum. But I disagree. Everything that I loved about nursing, which is taking care of people, building rapports, and just loving my patients, I’m able to do with my music. So I feel like I’ve been able to wrap nursing into what I do, which is really cool. How did you end up making music?
I’m a pastor’s daughter. I grew
up singing in church with both of my older sisters. I grew up listening to them singing. I was three years old when I joined the children’s choir at church. Once I hit elementary school, I joined every choir possible. So music has always been a steady thing throughout my whole life. I never thought of it as a career, though. I didn’t know anybody whose parents were entertainers, artists, or musicians, or anything along those lines. The grownups in my life were doctors and teachers.
When I was 15, I played the
flute. My band director encouraged me to audition for a high school Jazz band. I submitted a VHS for my audition, and they selected me. I got a ten days all-expensespaid trip to perform with this group at different jazz clubs in L.A. We even got to record an album and to attend the Grammys. It was an incredible experience.
Pg. 20 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
“I think a lot of times, as a creative, you find yourself always pouring out, which can be draining. So sometimes you’ve got to stop and just get poured into” -Such
During that trip, I realized that
do and be anything he wants to be, and I
all the kids who were there, all went to
realized at that moment the only way he
to really be present in the journey. In the
performing arts schools. They all just knew
would genuinely get that message is if I
entertainment industry, they try to lump
they were going to be musicians, and that
became what I wanted.
you in a particular category. The reality
was the first time I was like, “Oh my gosh, I
Another piece of advice would be
is, there’s room for everybody and that
could do this too.”
What was the turning point in your
you’re the only one who can do what you
music career?
do. I can’t do what somebody else says; I
When I came home from my trip,
I created a PowerPoint presentation for
for
can only do me. No matter how hard I try
my parents to express why they should let
American Idol when my son was just
to be somebody else. I can’t be. So might
me transfer out of my high school to the
a few months old, and I made it to
as well be the best version of myself. So I
nearest performing arts high school, which
Hollywood week. Then, I made it to the
would say do you, enjoy the journey, and
was about an hour away from our house.
end of Hollywood week. Eventually, I got
be present. There is no exact formula.
I had it all planned out. They told me no,
eliminated. I came back home, and I was
and that they didn’t want me to become
sad for a little bit. But after that, I was
Are
a struggling musician. I think from that
like, okay, it’s time to say goodbye to my
projects?
moment on; I was just was like, “Okay, but
nursing job and jump in headfirst.
music will be my release, and it’ll be like
I think back to that girl so many
Wide Nose Full Lips. If I could summarize
my hobby.” It became my way to get my
years ago who did the bravest thing
the album into phrases, I would say that it
creative juices flowing or whatever.
ever because I had no connections in the
is a love letter from myself, to myself. It’s
I headed down the medical path
entertainment industry. I had no idea what
me falling in love with who I am and being
and became a nurse. I worked in that
the industry was like, but there was just this
more comfortable in my skin. It’s a collection
field for four years. Then, that infamous
overwhelming conviction; I knew that music
of absolute unapologetic love letters to all
earthquake
Haitian
was the path I was supposed to take. I’m
things black and melanin. It took me about
American.) I went to Haiti as a nurse to
so glad that I listened to my heart because
four years to write this album, and I think
help. Seeing the loss of life and devastation
so many amazing things have happened
the reason why is because I just needed
really made me reconsider what I should
since then; things that I couldn’t have even
to live. I think a lot of times, as a creative,
be doing with my time here on Earth.
imagined.
you find yourself always pouring out, which
hit
Haiti.
(I’m
I
ended
up
auditioning
When I came back from Haiti, I started
you
currently
promoting
any
Yes. My latest album is called
can be draining. So sometimes you’ve got
to step back from nursing a little bit and
What are you learning about the
into singing a little more. I didn’t really
business side of music?
know how or if it was going to work out.
Then I had my son, and I would say he was
myself with a good team of people,
the second biggest catalyst. I remember
the right people, which doesn’t happen
looking into his eyes when he was just a
overnight. I’m still building my team. It’s
few days old. I didn’t want to be the kind of
not something that I’m necessarily in a
parent who lived vicariously through their
rush to do because I want a team with the
kid. I wanted him to know that he could
right people.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
I think it’s important to surround
to stop and just get poured into... -Written By Brandon Bornes Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Music Features | Pg. 21
Contact Information chefietef.com
DJ Cavem
Hip Hop Health Activist
From an early age DJ Cavem has
Becoming vegan at age 14, he said he
had a deep connection to environmental
felt a calling to speak about these issues
activism and food justice. Raised in
in his songs, “especially since most of the
Denver’s Five Points district, often referred
neighborhoods considered food deserts
to as the Harlem of the West, his interest
were people of color.”
for
gardening
and
hip
hop
helped
-Excerpt From chefietef.com
him resist the snares of gang lifestyle.
Pg. 22 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information foresightrecords.com
Melvin Shaw | HOTT Hip Hop Artist
Hailing from the bitterly cold surroundings of Syracuse, New York, comes a new emcee whose musical conviction is dedicated both to new and old generations of underground Hip-Hop fans alike. Utilizing a bevy of weapons in a ceaseless lyrical arsenal, HoTT engages his listeners with poignant rhymes that reflect on topics that range from politics to the ever-present struggle presented toward the oppressed in America and abroad. -Written By Melvin Show
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 23
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Alpha The Musical
Acoustic Singer & Songwriter
I am Alpha the Musical and I am
that I will have forever is singing on the
knew what I know now when I was younger
a singer/songwriter in Colorado Springs,
Gothic theater stage in front of hundreds
because if I did, I’d spend more time
CO. I started singing when I was three years
of people and feeling their energy.
saying to myself “worry less about their
old and when I was 17 I started playing
music
ideas and more about fleshing out yours.”
guitar. I’ve always felt like my life is the
professionally for eight years and if I could
-Written By Alpha The Musical
plot for a musical and the only one who
give anyone a bit of advice it would be
could write the score was me. I love talking
this: No one is going to want it as badly
to people through music because it allows
as you do. You have to push past all the
for us to share a moment. One memory
no’s by always telling yourself “yes.” I wish I
Pg. 24 | Music Features
I’ve
been
doing
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
TerryJosiah
Producer & Singer What advice would you give someone interested in trying to growing in their songwriting skills.
It would be like anybody that
wants to do you know that that’s actually serious about doing anything. If You want to be a good basketball player,
you
are going to find a court You’re going to practice.
it’s the exact same thing if
you want to be a songwriter, write every day. Some people think that songwriting is just writing the words down on paper. that’s more like poetry versus songwriting because if you don’t have any if you have a Melody to the words that you’re writing then it’s just words on paper.
In the studio, I have people that
come in with 5 songs written down.. They bring their notepad. It’s great. they’re excited. they come to the studio and they don’t have a melody, chord progression or know how they want to sing the song. Thats all part of the song writing process, and to grow you need to start learning and practicing how to deliver your content in a way that grabs the listener. Practice your song to music, or a guitar or piano, so when you are ready to record you have an idea of what you want to do. It will make the whole process move forward better. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 25
Contact Information theweswatkins.com
Wes Watkins
Singer, Songwriter & Musician
“I strive to use my music to
encourage
people
to
experience
the
individual. I believe if you can acknowledge and accept the entirety of yourself you will find perspective in your perception of others. No matter housing status, economic status, race, gender, political association, etc. In our quickly changing world I make music to create inclusive neighborhood, because
the
best
change
supports
connection to community. -Excerpt from theweswatkins.com
Pg. 26 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information kaylaraemusic.com
Kayla Rae
Singer & Songwriter
Kayla Rae is a singer, songwriter,
producer and performer from Colorado Springs, CO. She started writing songs since before the age of 10. Kayla has always had a passion for writing whether that be poems, stories and eventually music. Upon realizing music was her calling, she began to pursue that passion and further her education out of state where she learned to produce music. Once that was locked down, there was nothing she couldn’t make happen for herself. Since then Kayla has recorded over 200 of her own songs, directed & edited her own videos and created a brand solely off of what she loves. Music has been the only option ever since.
You can expect plenty of music
and an unstoppable journey to be a part of. The goal is that you connect with the art, the artist and the movement. -Excerpt from kaylaraemusic.com
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 27
Contact Information coryard.com
Pg. 28 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
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are effective ways to connect too. I like to get the crowd to engage with me. There’s a type of relationship you need to build with your audience, something personal that they can relate to. That’s extremely important when it comes to stage presence. How do you choose what songs to perform during a show?
A
lot
of
times,
I
choose
beforehand. However, I may change the songs I pre-picked after seeing how the crowd responded to other people who performed before me.
You know, if the
audience is a little older, I may do some songs that are better suited for mature crowds. If it’s a younger group of people, I may just perform some of my more fun
Cory Ard
Hip Hop Artist Why do you make music?
I’m an artist. I make music,
specifically Christian hip-hop. I make music for whoever is listening, whatever the flavor, I just want to make music that when people listen to it, they can vibe with its message. There is a purpose behind it. My goal is just to encourage people and to challenge them to live differently. I want to inspire them to change the world with anything and everything that they’re doing. I feel like our world is just in a place where negativity is rampant. I want to bring a positive light by swing music, and inspire people to the same as they’re listening. What is your music-making process?
I’ll start by sometimes praying
or listening to a little bit of worship music before I start writing my music, and then
songs. I’ll just cut on the beat to start rocking out. There’s a lot of mumbling at first while
What are some things that you’re
trying to find different cadences, melodies,
learning about the business side?
and rhythms for my verse or chorus.
Another way I create music is through
sometimes things don’t always go the way
writing sessions with friends. I’ve found
you want it to go. And so I think flexibility,
that I make some of my best music when
as well as patience with your craft and
I’m surrounded by people I love who are
with your music, is critical. Other times, you
also making music. It’s one of my favorite
have to take the initiative to make things
ways to write music.
happen. I think oftentimes we wait too long
When working with other people,
and we rely too much on other people. I’m What have you learned about the value
a go-getter. One of my favorite quotes is,
of stage presence?
“Faith without works is dead.” I’ve learned
One thing that I learned is that
that there is value in having a team and
people come to concerts and events to
community of people around you who are
be entertained. So, if you’re going to
doing the same thing you’re doing because
entertain, you have to be entertaining. My
iron sharpens iron.
stage presence is about energy, it’s about
-Written By Brandon bornes
making eye contact and just connecting with the audience in those different ways. Telling everybody to nod their heads with me, or telling a joke to make them laugh
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music Music Features | Pg. 29
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Jon Shockness | Kid Astronaut Singer & Songwriter
Kid
Astronaut
is
an
dreamer, visionary and creator.
artist,
hit a portal - sending them hurtling into
He was
an alternate past dimension set back in
recently a featured artist at TedxBoulder,
the year 2015.
his music was featured on 303 Music
Volume 2 a compilation album from 303
Magazine and he’s played stages from
Astronaut’s memory partly destroyed,
music festivals to venues in London,
the
England.
assimilate to the past as well as blend
He’s also from the future... One
into their new reality, keeping the truth
day, while touring with his band (a crew
about their time travels...and themselves
of wise and talented time-travelers,
a secret. Until now.
scientists and musicians) their spaceship
Pg. 30 | Music Features
Their futuristic tech, and Kid band
decided
they
needed
to
-Written By John Shockness
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information theremindersmusic.com
The Reminders Big Samir & Aja Black Hip Hop/Soul/Acoustic
The Reminders are a rare and
remarkable
seamlessly
demeanor. This is beautifully complimented
blending soulful sounds and roots music
by Aja Black’s confident delivery, diverse
with insightful messages and thoughtful
cadences, and unique vocal stylings.
lyrics. The group consists of Brussels-born
emcee Big Samir and Queens-born emcee/
magical chemistry as they share more
vocalist Aja Black, a collective creative
than lyrical abilities and stages; the couple
force that’s hard to beat.
shares a partnership in both music and life
Big
musical
Samir
duo
credibility in both his lyrics and cool
weaves
intricate
rhythmic patterns with a bilingual French/ English flow, displaying his street-smart Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
The two have an undeniable
as Samir and Aja have been married for almost a decade. -Excerpt from theremindersmusic.com Music Features | Pg. 31
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Harold Rapp III Saxophonist
Harold Rapp III was born in
New Orleans as a second generation PK (Preacher’s Kid) and was raised in the church. His love for the sax came at age 10 and he started his career as a performer by 12. His influence comes from his early years living in Germany as a child of a military family. Later, he moved back to the US and spent several years on bases in Louisiana and California before finally settling on Colorado.
Though he grew up listening to
gospel and performed at the church, his father planted a seed by exposing him to various types jazz, including smooth jazz. His chief influence growing up was gospel performer, Angela Christie. While attending college at the Lamont School of Music at Denver University and Metro State, he began listening to urban saxophonist like Gerald Albright, who later became his mentor, and David Sanborn.
The road wasn’t always easy for
him as he ran into many bumps, edgy twists and turns on his road to becoming a recording artist and renowned performer. It was only by his faith in God and a very driven determination that he triumphed gracefully over adversity. -Written By Harold Rapp III
Pg. 32 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information bkgmusic.com
Robert Houston
Black Pegasus Promoter & Performer
Robert Houston II, commonly
known as Black Pegasus throughout the music industry, is a Hip-Hop artist based in Colorado Springs. He is the current president and CEO of Brass Knuckle Entertainment.
Mr.
Houston
considers
himself a pioneer artist after contributing more than nineteen years to his craft. Having achieved nine Studio albums including Black Pegasus, Black by Popular Demand, and The Black Mexican, the Hip-Hop pioneer shows no sign of slowing down.
After
twenty
years
he
has
accomplished a diverse portfolio inclusive of music production, local and national concert performances, numerous music videos, collaborations, mixed tapes, and even voice-over acting! Mr. Houston owns his own studio, also located in Colorado Springs; a milestone he attributes to his ever-expanding platform.
“I used to make a lot of money
just being an artist, but my platform has grown, and I’ve been able to take advantage of that to make a living.” - Written By Robert Houston
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 33
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Phiilo
Electronic Dance Where do you see yourself heading with your musical style?
I
just want to travel the world
playing music for everyone. I’m just keeping my options open for now. At times, plans can be confusing or uncertain. Everybody’s trying to figure this music life out. I’ve been working with a lot of producers [in Colorado] recently because Nick just moved back to Chicago to finish his master’s degree in Psychology. I’m still definitely making music, just virtually for now. I’m still out here in Denver and collaborating with the producers who send me tracks. I’m incorporating that that hiphop vibe. What messages are you trying to convey to your music?
I like coming up with some power
chords and melody, something catchy with Nick. He’ll send it to me, and I’ll put the headphones on, and I’ll walk around the block or walk around my apartment and wait to get a vibe from the music, see where it takes me. I consider things like if the music speaks about a girl or a particular situation in my life. I feel that’s what music is, you know — just the way to express life. - Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Pg. 34 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
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Gingy
Hip Hop & Poetry What is writing to you?
hectic nature of my brain. Just being able
Writing is my therapy. I’m not in
to put a phrase to that and being able
therapy, but I’ve been in it throughout my
to lock in exactly what that is, gives me a
life. So, I know how helpful it could be, and
little more control over everything.
I see that writing is just as beneficial for
-Written By Brandon Bornes
me. It really helps me maintain my sanity by putting words to my emotions and the Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 35
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Cicely O’Kain Singer
Cicely O’Kain is an artist in every
since of the word. A free spirit who uniquely expresses
her
artistry
through
music,
design, poetry and a sheer appreciation for life. Her infectious sound and style appeals to all when she’s center stage. Inspired by the sounds of Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Chaka Kahn, and many other R & B legends. Her style is an eclectic mix of R&B and soul with whimsical twist. She’s vibrant and keeps her audiences entertained with her endearing stage presence. - Written By Cicely O’kain
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/music
Pg. 36 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information adielmitchell.com
Adiel Mitchell Singer
“I wanna make music that makes people bop their heads”
Adiel Mitchell is a singer/song-
writer, dancer, and producer based out of Denver, CO. His musical journey began in 2012 where he started to upload videos of him singing and dancing with his friend on Youtube. As time passed on, Adiel ventured on with his own inspirations and influences and started releasing music of his own. Adiel has discovered his voice, style, and sound in his original blend of Pop/R&B and production elements of today’s hottest Hip-Hop music. - Excerpt from Adielmitchell.com
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 37
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J. Carter
Singer, Songwriter, Producer
J. Carter is a musician, singer,
knew the path he wanted to pursue and
outreach in the Colorado Springs area
songwriter, audio engineer, performer,
went on to get his bachelor’s degree in
and beyond spreading the Gospel of Jesus
motion graphics artist, videographer and
Music from the University of Colorado at
Christ. Over the years J. Carter continued
entrepreneur. Born and raised in Colorado,
Colorado Springs.
to write, record, and release his music and
most years in Colorado Springs, right
been
has had the great opportunity to work with
outside Denver, J. Carter discovered his
performing around the United States
some amazing artists such as Andy Mineo,
creative passions early on. With his passion
and recording and releasing music for
Flame, Bizzle, Datin, JSon, Spec, C-Micah,
for God driving him, he began playing and
himself and other aspiring artists as well
and SOCOM to name a few.
singing in church worship teams and his
as leading worship. In 2010, J. Carter
love for music grew. In high school, he was
partnered with ministers and musicians
introduced to the world of recording music
in Colorado Springs to create City Lights
and composing and never looked back. He
Ministries. They held monthly events for
Pg. 38 | Music Features
Since
then
he
has
-Written By J. Carter
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Contact Information tonyexumjr.com
Tony Exum Jr Saxophonist
Thomas “Tony” Exum, Jr. was born
huge fan of Slave, the Jacksons, S.O.S.
later developed a passion for the sounds
in Colorado Springs, CO. He spent much
Band, RUN DMC, LL COOL J, and of
he could create with the saxophone,
of his childhood traveling from Germany,
course, New Edition. He not only could
even being asthmatic; and this is where
to Mississippi, to New Orleans, and back,
recite the words to his favorite tunes, but
his journey began. “I knew I would be a
due to his military upbringing.
could also identify any instrument!
musician of some sort. The saxophone
At the age of 11, Tony picked up
intrigued me and quickly became the
Tony’s interest in “grown up” music was
a saxophone given to him by his uncle
way my heart wanted to express itself
extensive. For Christmas, at the age of
Larry Francis, Jr, a U.S. Army musician
musically.”
6, Tony received Parliament-Funkadelic
stationed at Fort Carson, CO for the first
albums, but by then, he was already a
time and soon developed a love for it. He
As a child, as early as age 3,
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
-Written By Tony Exum Jr.
Music Features | Pg. 39
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Jawai Williams Singer
Some of
LA Fashion Week 2019, New York Fash-
Widefield High School with a 3.0 GPA.
Jawai’s recent achievements include: run-
ion Week 2020 and Miami Fashion Week
Her favorite subject is science due to all
way show with America’s Next Top Model
2020.
the theory and creativity in that field.
contestant Victoria Henley - April 2019;
Jawai is a phenomenal vocalist who has
released video singing “For His Glory”
adult church choir and praise team for
received a multitude of awards for her ac-
by Tasha Cobb - March 2019, which has
the last five years. She also performed at
complishments. She is currently exploring
over 5,900 views on the My Black Colora-
the AAYLC during the opening ceremony
several HBCUs and would like to obtain a
do homepage;
spotlight performance in
in March 2019. While attending the con-
degree in Nursing and minor in music. Her
Sergeant H’s video singing “Your Glory” -
ference, she enjoyed learning more about
ultimate dream is to become a singer.
March 2019; Fox News interview - Febru-
African American History.
Jawai’s mentor is her mother, Na-
ary 2019; and Yes M.A.A.M Pageant Queen
tasha Williams, who has taught her per-
winner - December 2018. She is also sched-
severance and to never give up
on her
uled to walk in the following fashion shows:
Jawai has been extremely busy
Atlanta Fashion Week September 2019,
dreams.
Jawai Williams is a senior at
Pg. 40 | Music Features
making her dreams a reality.
Jawai has volunteered in the
Excerpt from www.aaylc-co.org
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
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Contact Information 303magazine.com
Kori Hazel
Content Contributor
Kori Hazel is a Denver native
who has paved a way in the Mile High City’s music scene on his own terms.
Bianca Mikahn
Beginning his journey in the industry at Tucson’s Rialto Theatre while attending the University of Arizona, Hazel has made it a point to immerse himself in as many facets of the industry as possible working with entities like Z2 Entertainment, Madison House and RED Distribution. hats
Currently a wearer of many at
involved
303 in
Magazine,
talent
Hazel
buying,
is
writing,
project management and photography amongst other things, but all revolving around music. To date, Hazel has worked with the likes of New Belgium, The Underground Music Showcase, Visit Denver and more on various creative projects and installations.
The core of Hazel’s work,
however, is dealing with local musicians, telling their story and creating creative
Ebenezerm Yebuah
Bianca Mikahn has long been a
Ghana-born
singer
Ebenezer
maverick in Denver’s music scene, pushing
Yebuah, known by his stage name Mawule,
for purposes greater than herself. A singer,
began his musical journey at church.
MC and spoken word poet, Mikahn also
Propelled
leads a mental health organization, Check
empowerment, Yebuah speaks on issues
Your Head, which specifically deals with
like domestic violence and his ability to
mental health in young adults and the
love his own skin. The societal issues he
trials of coming into one’s own through
speaks on are core to his sound and the
art, as well as being a partner artist like
earnest manner in which he delivers his
Watkins is with Youth on Record.
catchy songs and thought-provoking lyrics.
A social-justice advocate and
by
human
connection
and
Last year, Yebuah, as a survivor
with her own TED Talk to boot, Mikahn
and worker in higher education, hosted
is a triple threat diving headfirst into the
a fundraiser concert alongside YaSi and
community, utilizing her artistry to propel
Kayla Marque on behalf of sexual and
her sanctified mission.
domestic violence victims, bring alight the
-Written By Kori Hazel
issues in our community and raising money for SafeHouse, an emergency shelter those dealing with domestic and sexual violence. -Written By Kori Hazel
opportunities to showcase the city’s immense
talent.
Kori
Hazel
also
manages Denver bands VYNYL and Oxeye Daisy.
Pg. 42 | Music Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Mandy Groves Denver-based
Acuna Black vocalist
Acuna Black formerly known as Ill
Tanya Salih Violinist
and
singer/songwriter
Tanya
Mandy Groves was writing love songs
Se7en, another longtime MC and advocate
Salih, known simply as Zanib, sings
before she even knew what love was. Her
for social progress, is an unrelenting force
with a voice imbued with pride for one’s
wide eyes sparkle when she speaks of the
of message and substance. Born Michael
cultural heritage and the beauty of one’s
emotion, both imagining the whimsical
Acuña, the underground hip-hop artist is
personhood. Salih descends from Nubian
fantasy of Hollywood “rom-coms” and the
also known as a youth advocate, educator
parents
thorny reality of watching love end with
and an activist in the community.
Eastern sounds and Western influences
tears in her eyes or a bitter taste in her
Acuña works to break stereotypes
together in a genre-blending output, but
mouth (“I was writing ‘Tyrone”-esque lyrics
and hold those who are in positions to
with love and optimism at the forefront. In
when I was 10″).
abuse accountable, serving on civilian
a time when immigration is a core topic
Romance is the beating heart of
oversight committees for the Denver police
affecting our nation, Salih is a messenger,
Groves’ music, a reckless driver that informs
and sheriff. Receiving President Obama’s
coming to the table with the simple mission
her story. Even as a little kid, Groves
My Brother’s Keeper Award in 2016.
of uniting people and cultures through
recalls listening to one of her favorite
her music. Also working as co-director of
bands, Lincoln Park, and wondering why
hard-hitting conscious raps and transforms
Colorado Village,
the band she loved shied away from the
the MC into a spokesman of sorts for those
the team to find creative and empowering
emotion. In fact, she remembers not even
who can’t speak for themselves or can’t
solutions to homelessness in the city.
understanding how it was possible.
articulate the struggle of being black in
Nowadays,
Groves
has
been
Acuña’s message supersedes his
of
Muslim
heritage
bringing
Salih works alongside
-Written By Kori Hazel
America as eloquently as he can.
around the block enough times to know
-Written By Kori Hazel
what love is but that hasn’t stopped her from plucking the petals off the daisies just to pick them back up again. -Written By Kori Hazel
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Music Features | Pg. 43
Contact Information poetry719.com
POETRY 719 - ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
CREATIVE CRUSHES Pages 44-59
Poetry 719
Poetry Organization
Poetry719
is
a
community
paying artists and providing performance
masculinity, grief and loss, as well as our
poetry organization in Colorado Springs
opportunities for local artist.
longest-running event, Colorado Black
that fosters and supports the freedom
Our call back is "We do Stuff" and we aim
Voices Matter, which won the “Recurring
of expression through the written and
to do stuff for the whole community. We
Poetry Event” award from the Pikes Peak
spoken word. We focus on uplifting
invite you to join us at our events, meet
Arts Council in 2018. We also put together
and celebrating voices of marginalized
our community, and be inspired by poetry.
an annual poetry festival in October that
communities and people of color. As a black
highlights the amazing artistic talent
run organization, we aim to create safe,
Facebook group in 2009 and became
inclusive, and accessible events for all. We
an event and community engagement
put on 3-4 events a month including open
group in 2018. We believe that everyone’s
mics, discussion panels, movie showings,
voice is valuable, important, and deserves
volunteer opportunities with nonprofits,
to be heard. Our events focus on but
and themed poetry nights. Our tag line is
are not limited too various topics such
"Art Aint Free" and we pride ourselves on
as spirituality, womxn of color, toxic
Pg. 44 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
We were founded as a small
Colorado Springs has to offer. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Contact Information poetry719.com
Ashley Cornelius
Co-Director of Poetry 719
Ashley Cornelius is a spoken
Mercury Cafe and events in Denver and
evoke change. Ashley has a background
word poet in Colorado. She won Gold
Colorado Springs.
in
for the Colorado Springs Independent
Ashley is the Co-Director of
Program Director of an arts nonprofit in
Best of Artist Category 2019. She has
Poetry 719. Ashley was nominated for two
Denver focused on poetry workshop and
won four Hear Here Poetry Slams in
2018 Pikes Peak Art Council (PPAC) awards
curriculum. Ashley is committed to using
Colorado Springs. She was the Women of
and won best recurring poetry event. She
poetry as a platform to speak up and out
the World Poetry Slam Colorado Springs
has also been featured at Tedx Colorado
for marginalized groups and be a voice for
representative and competed in Dallas at
Springs. She graduated with a master’s
those who have been silenced.
Nationals in March 2018. She has been
in International Disaster Psychology from
featured at Keep Colorado Springs Queer
DU. She focuses on providing creative
Oppen Mic, the Black Voices Matter Open
therapy for adolescents. Her poems reflect
Mic, NAACP Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak
her personal struggles and journey as a
Community College, the Colorado Springs
young black woman.
Women’s March, At the Ink Well, The
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
poetry
education
and
was
the
-Written By Ashley Cornelius
She aims to inspire, empower, Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 45
Contact Information poetry719.com
Christopher Beasley
Co-Director Of Poetry 719
Christopher “Beas J” Beasley is
Colorado Springs. This event grew and in
an accomplished poet and organizer in
2018 the event received the best recurring
the community. He has been performing
poetry event by the Pikes Peak Arts Council
for about 10 years and got his start
(PPAC). Additionally, Chris also won the
helping create Hear Here Poetry in 2009
Literary leadership award from PPAC.
and forming Word Wednesday Open
Mic. He competed on 4 Hear Hear slam
The Shop Open Mic, and other local
teams and in 2014 was on the team
venues. In 2018, Chris branched out and
that won Group Piece Finals at NPS.
helped transform Poetry719 into an event
and poetry organization and is the Co-
Chris continued to invest in the
He has featured for the NAACP,
poetry community and sat on the board of
Director.
Chris
plans
and
facilitates
Hear Here for 2 years. He has performed
monthly events, workshops, and discussions
around Colorado Springs and Denver and
through poetry719 and is a large part
leaves a lasting impression wherever he
of the cities increased poetry scene.
goes. In 2017 Chris started Colorado Black
- Excerpt From Poetry719.com
Voices Matter Open Mic, design to give voices to black poets and performers in
Pg. 46 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Contact Information midnightpoet00.com
Philip J. Curtis
Founder Of Poetry 719
Writer, spoken word artist, and
mentor Philip J. Curtis is a native of New York with roots in Jamaica West Indies, who arrived on the Colorado Springs poetry scene in 2006 bringing with him a brand of New York City swag along with the sensual sun of Jamaica West Indies. Mr. Curtis established luvsaverb.com in 2007 combining his love for music with his poetic flow.
Philip
aka
Midnight
an avid community steward.
is
also
He has
facilitated poetry workshops at various high schools, and colleges.
He has
supported non-profit organizations such as CASA, LifeWithoutLupos.org, TESSA, Finding Our Voices, and Art from Ashes. He is a founding member of Hear Here Poetry and in 2009 he established Poetry 719 on Facebook to foster and support the freedom of self-expression in spoken and written word through community connections, education, and poetic unity for all ages.
Mr. Curtis will release two books
in 2020 to celebrate his forty years of performing.
The titles of the book are
Haiku: The Ultimate Short Story which is a collection of haiku’s and poems.
The
second book that he will release is entitled After Midnight which is a collection of his erotic poems. -Written By Philip J. Curtis
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 47
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Tyescha Clark Poet
This woman is doing big things
in our community and standing for the people of color in the city. Tyescha helps run the People of Color in Colorado Springs group that allows people of color to connect and create community in this town. She also organized and executed the People of Color in Solidarity day this year that was absolutely spectacular. There were workshops, poets, keynote speakers, childcare, and general fellowship and networking of people of color in the area. Originally from New York, we are so glad life has brought her to us and that she is here to help us grow.
She is a leader, a visionary, an
innovator, a mother, and a dope poet. Tyescha is on the board of ESN and has contributed to multiple organizations and events in the springs. - Written By Ashley Cornelius
Pg. 48 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Micheal Ferguson
President Of Hot Comb Poets Poetry719 Poet of the Year
Michael “Skillzilla” Ferguson is
a tall, black man, all too aware that his size makes him particularly vulnerable in America. Michael is scared because of his skin color, and he chooses to express that fear in his writing rather than remaining afraid at home.
His poetry focuses on
racial and social injustice, and nerd stuff.
If Michael isn’t writing, then he’s
sitting at home with his wife, Dr. Sandy Ho, and watching trash television, reading comics, or playing video-games.
He is
currently working on obtaining his MA in English at CSU Pueblo and hopes one day to be the black professor for students who look like him that Michael never had.
Michael is always open to talk
about Poetry, Comics, and Naruto.
Feel
free to talk to him about any of these things if you see him at an open mic. - Written By Ashley Cornelius
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 49
Contact Information rosennabakari.com
Dr. Rosenna Bakari Poet, Author, Educator, Motivational Speaker
Dr. Bakari is an author, advocate,
and scholar. She is a role model for those whose life experiences have been steeped in challenges of oppression, including race, gender, and sexual violence, and an expert at building bridges between men and women. She is a visiting assistant professor in the College of Education at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. She earned her Ph.D. in educational psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. She is also Cornell University and SUNY alum.
Although much of her scholarship
centers around breaking the silence of sexual violence, she considers herself a “peace worker.” She recognizes personal growth and self-awareness as requirements for improving the human condition. -Excerpt From Rosennabakari.com
Pg. 50 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
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E De La
Singer & Songwriter
A Colorado Springs native, has
had a passion for singing and touching the lives of people through her music for as far back as she can remember. It wasn’t until she was 15 yrs old, that E. De La began growing into her own artistry, as a soloist and writing her own songs. Since then, she has enjoyed singing at church, talent shows, sports events, open mic nights, celebrity concerts and karaoke. greatest satisfaction from being able to connect with people on an emotional level. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Kylee C
Visual Artist
An absolutely incredible Denver
poet. Kylee C. is a Denver based visual and performance artist working with nonprofit organizations to create healing through art. She began writing as a child to tell her story, and it soon became a tool for personal growth. Her poetry is inspired by personal experiences embracing flaws and reframing thoughts to accept oneself. Through her work, she aims to connect by sharing personal stories of imperfections and empowerment. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Pg. 52 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
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Irina Amouzou Poet
We first met Irina at the youth
open mic at our poetry festival in 2018. She got on the mic and blew us all way. Since then it was been so wonderful to see how presence in the poetry community and her time on the mic increase. Her poems are beautiful, sensuous, and powerful. She not afraid of the mic and it shows because everyone line hits and is explosive and truthful. She is currently attending UCCS. She is passionate about social justice and politics and takes the debate stage with grace. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Deanna McGrone AKA DJ Supreme
She is one of the sickest DJs in
town and is the ONLY yes i said ONLY female black DJ in the Springs. She played our Listen to Black Womxn event during the Poetry719 Festival and blew everyone away. D-Supreme officially started DJing in the fall of 2014 and has set up shop in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She always brings her genre-expanding catalog of dope music & positive attitude. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 53
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Chris Jones
Photographer & Graphic Designer
Chris is a portrait, fashion, music
photographer and graphic designer based in Colorado. When he’s not plotting to take over the world, he’s taking pictures out in the world. He loves capturing people and this his my way of doing it. He is an incredible photographer and has a way of capturing powerful and interesting moments. This is a photographer you want to book. -Written By Ashley Cornelius -
Mike Murphy Comedian
Mike is a dope af comedian in
Colorado Springs. He performs all around the city and helps organize comedy shows to create exposure and recognition for comedy. He is a husband and father! He is a wonderful community member and always down to support and collaborate with others. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Pg. 54 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
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Natalie Sharp Poet & Activist
Natalie Sharp is a Black writer,
dancer, and activist hailing from Savannah, GA and based in Denver, CO. She is currently pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing with a concentration in poetry at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she also taught undergraduate creative writing. She is invested in the power of poetry as a mode of both healing and reckoning.
Her work has previously
appeared or is forthcoming in BOAAT Press, Puerto del Sol, Juked, The Shade Journal, and more. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Tiffany Howard Poet
Tiffany is an incredible poet who
always seems to take the words right out of the audience’s heart. Tiffany’s poetry is raw and exposes the injustices that often get overlooked. Her support at our events and for community engagement and cohesion is truly inspiring. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 55
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Jazz Holmes
Mixed Media Artist
Jazz is an adjunct professor at
CSU in the department of Art and History and her students are incredibly lucky to have her. Her talent knows no bounds. Her art is breathtaking and thought-provoking. There is no doubt in our minds that she is destined for greatness and fame. Her art is inspiring and captivating. W“Jazz is committed to her art, even when things get hard and it would be easier to choose a different career.
Her work is some of the most
original beauty I’ve ever seen and every piece is different from the next. She’s a fiercely loyal and compassionate friend.” Jazz is an artist, a teacher, an activist, a community member, and a friend to so many. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Pg. 56 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Contact Information artbyrizzo.com
Jeresneyka Rose Art By Rizzo Visual Artist
A self-taught visual artist who
originates
from
Brooklyn,
New
York.
The first-generation American currently resides in Colorado. She always had a natural knack for art, but never explored her talents. Throughout her flourishing adulthood, she rediscovered her love for art and began painting in May 2014.
Amongst
the
plethora
of
inspiration in this world, she primarily draws inspiration from her Panamanian heritage,
sexuality,
pop-culture,
and
environmental influences. Her mediums of choice is acrylic paint and digital art. She thrives off of allowing her creativity to be incorporated within community. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 57
Contact Information patricediechelle.com
Patrice Ravenscroft Patrice Diechelle Poet
A champion for the Colorado
Springs community and an exceptional example of what it means to give back. Patrice is the executive director of Reach Pikes Peak.
She is one of the most
connected and collaborative leaders in the city!
Patrice is also a wife, a mother, a
friend, and a poet. Her poetry is beautiful and it is always lovely to see the way in which someone can engage a community from various aspects of themselves. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Pg. 58 | Poetry719’s Creative Crushes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
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StoneyBertz Poet
They are incredible and everyone
should
know
about
who
they
are.
Stoneybertz is an artist living in Denver Co. They released their first project “fades and green stuff”� in 2011 and have been performing around Colorado springs and beyond while putting out other projects.
In addition to be being passionate
about hip hop they also serve as the queer liaison for the empowerment solidarity network, focusing on advancing the quality of life for marginalized folks. -Written By Ashley Cornelius
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry719
Poetry719’s Creative Crushes | Pg. 59
Contact Information thelovelyrebel.com
Lovely’s Poetry Corner
The Lovely Rebel Spoken Word Poetess
the lyricist for various events and feature
joy, worries, and fears have all been
appearances: Brown Suga Vibe, Flowetic
validated through performance poetry.
Wednesday, ATL Club Awards, Spoken
More specifically, it is the audience
Chaos, Pass Key Entertainment, Spoken
reactions' to the things I write that serve
Word Mingle, and The Soul Gathering to
as the conduit for that validation. Their
name a few. As well, Lovely released a
responses are tangible reassurances that
5-track EP entitled, "I don't write pretty... I
I am not crazy or alone in my thoughts
just write life." to an enthusiastic response,
or struggles. That kind of validation
which sold over 250 copies in two weeks.
is powerful because it is healing and
Lovely Rebel is a very soulful and
intentionally provocative spoken word poet who believes, "people connect to realness." Formerly Mz. Skribble, a novice yet formidable poet groomed in Atlanta, GA, the artist has been writing and performing captivating poetry for over a decade.
The Lovely Rebel first appeared
on YouTube in 2008, where she shared her earliest works with a small but diehard supportive audience. It didn't take long for her followership to grow on and offline. The eventuality of such led her to the heart of downtown Atlanta, where at the iconic Apache Cafe', she nervously lost her "mic virginity" to a packed house. Riotous applause for her candid and beautifully profound expressions erupted as she exited the stage. It was a momentous occasion, indeed, for it takes courage to bare one's soul before a room full of strangers and with the best-of-the-best poets looking on.
Three
minutes
and
twenty-
one seconds was the duration of that remarkable Apache' performance and a stepping stone to a heightened level of notoriety for the Lovely Rebel. YouTube fans, party promoters, event planners, and venues alike began calling to book Pg. 60 | Porsha’s Poetry Corner
Today, Lovely Rebel is based
unifying."
in Colorado Springs, where she recently reentered the spoken word performance
What did you do to hone your skills?
circuit after an extended hiatus. Audience
members who were able to attend her
of what all the other poets were doing. I
intimate, 3-piece, production listened with
noticed very early on, especially in slam
rapt and fascinated attention. It was an
poetry, that nearly all the poets recited
auspicious event, which gave birth to an
their pieces with the same rhythm, same
on-going open mic showcase entitled "Soul
cadence, and often using crazy metaphors
Sunday" that occurs every first Sunday of
which only they understood. I found their
the month at Club Tilt & Grill.
deliveries
"Ha-ha! The complete opposite
boring,
unpredictable,
and
lacking in substance. Honestly, without How did your poetry journey start?
even trying, I just told my own stories in a
`"I believe I was born a writer. I
way that is distinct to my personality, and
remember writing short stories when I
audiences found my delivery captivating.
was in elementary school. My mom found
I think the only critical piece of advice I
one I'd scribbled on a piece of paper and
ever received from a dear friend in Atlanta
discarded. I remember she woke me during
was that I needed to come with "a little mo'
the night after she found it. She told me
attitude." That is when I wrote my signature
how good she thought it was, and she
piece, Disbanded."
talked to me about how I could be anything
-Written By Porsha Stuckey
I wanted when I grew up. But I didn't start to write real poetry until I found myself trapped in an abusive relationship. Poetry, then, became my means to figuratively escape. That is until I escaped literally." How has poetry impacted your life?
"My experiences with heartbreak,
abandonment, exploitation, shame, anger,
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Poetry
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry
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Stephanie “Just A Vessel” James Speaker. Poet. Actor. Author. Vocalist
Stephanie James, also known as
Theo Wilson
Speaker. Poet. Actor. Author. Vocalist
Theo
Wilson
is
a
founding
“Just A Vessel,” is a poet, singer, speaker,
member of the Denver Slam Nuba team,
and event host. Originally from Colorado
who won the National Poetry Slam in
Springs, CO, she graduated from Sierra
2011. He began his speaking career in the
High School and was inducted into the
N.A.A.C.P. at the age of 15 and has always
Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
had a passion for social justice.
In
2008,
Stephanie
attended
Theo
attended
Florida
A&M
Hampton University with a basketball
University, where he obtained his B.A.
scholarship and graduated Summa Cum
in Theater Performance. He returned to
Laude. Her poetry career started at Hamp-
Denver and is now the Executive Director
ton, since then, she has traveled to over 38
of Shop Talk Live, Inc. The organization
countries and counting and has performed
uses the barbershop as a staging ground
poetry and song in almost every country
for community dialogue and healing.
she’s visited. Calling herself a global cit-
izen, her book of poetry and two albums
beginning in 2015, Theo grew his social
have traveled around the globe.
media following to well over 68,000 people.
After
viral
video
success
current-
Due to audience demand, he published his
ly working on her latest project, which is
first book in 2017, “The Law of Action.” The
scheduled to release in 2021. More recent-
book addresses some of the misconceptions
ly, she launched an apparel line, “Same
about the law of attraction, and the role
Shirt Different Country” that is a minimal-
direct action plays into manifestation.
ist movement encouraging others to “pack
less and travel more.”
“A Black Man Goes Undercover in the Alt-
Today,
Stephanie
is
-Written By Stephanie James
In 2017, Theo’s T.E.D. Talk entitled,
Right,” was seen worldwide, amassing a total of over 12 million views. He has been featured on BuzzFeed, CNN, Good Day Canada, and T.V. One. -Written By Theo Wilson
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/poetry
Porsha’s Poetry Corner | Pg. 61
Contact Information thelovelyrebel.com
WRITER - ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
FEATURES Pages 64-71
WRITE TOUCH CONSULTING, LLC
Resume Preparation | Professional Editing Business & Technical Writing | Website Design Contact Porsha At WriteTouchConsulting.com 719.286.9489 info@WriteTouchConsulting.com
Porsha Stuckey
Write Touch Consulting, CEO Write Touch Consulting (WTC) is a Black-
a range of services for clients to choose
tained a 100% resume’ success rate, and a
owned process management and techni-
from, depending on their particular needs.
99% positive feedback and endorsement
cal writing firm. It is an esteemed local
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a myriad of clients in their career and
literature, website and menu design, grant
Consulting.com, serves as a proven track
business-oriented pursuits. In turn, WTC
and business writing, real estate property
record.
has entrenched a respectable reputation
descriptions, and much more.
as a competent and capable consulting
As Ms. Stuckey doesn’t believe in
with a professional writer the right move
organization, which produces superior
conducting herself with a corporate rigid-
for you, contact the firm via phone, web,
writing and design material.
ity, so often found in Corporate America,
or email to learn about the consultative
she delivers a comfortable, personable,
process, and to discuss your needs in-
owned and operated by professional writ-
and memorable experience. Clients are
depth at no initial charge. If you’re facing
er, Porsha Stuckey, who attributes twenty
encouraged to be themselves, and they
the unexpected loss of a job, seeking to
years’ experience to the industry. The
are treated as partners with which Ms.
reenter the workforce, change industries,
firm focuses on polishing the professional
Stuckey confers throughout their entire
or expand your business through digital
profiles of career-oriented individuals and
project.
marketing, Write Touch Consulting will
start-up businesses, preferably in the earli-
er stages of operation.
built an enthusiastic client base through
word of mouth. To date, the firm has sus-
Write Touch Consulting is and
Write Touch Consulting offers Pg. 62 | Authors & Writers
Over the years, WTC has steadily
If you’re wondering if consulting
help you succeed.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Angela Wharton
Aisha Brackett
Lyza Ingram
Phynyx Ministries, Founder/ CEO
Urban Awakenings, CEO
Xpressions Beauty Salon, CEO
Client Testimonial
Client Testimonial
Client Testimonial
"I
needed
a
public
speaker
“I am a certified Reiki healer and
“The first draft of my biography
resume but had no clue how to create
spiritualist. Additionally, I own an online
was delivered on time and as promised.
one. I was completely blown away by
store that supplies products and literature
It was AMAZING! I was speechless. This
how Porsha took the stack of information
for people who want to lead a spiritual
woman is gifted. I was brought to tears as
I sent and turned it into a crisp and
lifestyle. Write Touch Consulting recently
I read over the story of my life in words
clean resume that I've used for national
revamped the website for my store. I have
that I could not find.
speaking engagements. I even hired her
to say; I am thoroughly pleased with the
again to upgrade my bio, and again, I
result. Porsha Stuckey, CEO, and designer
and patient. She has without a doubt
was thoroughly satisfied with the finished
had keen attention to detail. She was also
exceeded
product!
professional,
thorough, professional, and seemed to
definitely recommend to others seeking her
efficient, and knowledgeable. She takes
have a sixth sense to create a website with
level of expertise. I look forward to working
time to get to know her clients to fully
aesthetics that perfectly aligned with my
with her on my future projects."
understand their needs before she even
vision. My website is beautiful and easy to
starts writing. I highly recommend Write
use. If you want to see for yourself, visit
Touch Consulting for all of your writing
www.UrbanAwakings.org, and while you’re
needs--you will not be disappointed!"
there, feel free to browse our products.
Porsha
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There is something for everyone’s spiritual need, from protective crystal jewelry and healing stones to sage bundles.” Read More Testimonials At WriteTouchConsulting.com
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Authors & Writers | Pg. 63
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Kimberly Spencer Author
Explain what your new childresn book is about.
The book is about a little girl
named Kai who has issues with doing things that’s out of her reach and so she always says like I’m too little to do this and so she always has her mom there to like push her to be like no you could do it if I give you a hand and so it just motivates Kai to on to what she wants to do. Why did you choose to write that book?
I’ve actually worked with children
fora few years.. I’ve been a daycare teacher and a full-time nanny. It’s always been a dream of mine to write a children’s book and like working with kids. -Written By Brandon Bornes Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Writer
Pg. 64 | Authors & Writers
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Contact Information tinaadams.org
Tina Adams Author
Tina Adams is a minister, author,
writer and editor. Her passion for writing began when she was a young girl writing for her high school newspaper. Since then she has authored and co-authored 3 books to include her best-seller Out of Darkness. Her next project Woman at The Well: Laugh, Love and God will be released soon. Tell us how you got started writing
I write because I have always
loved writing and sharing the message that God would have me to give through written word. After going through a number of life challenges, I decided to write a book that also doubles as a journal to help others process and overcome difficult moments in their own journey. Whats One piece of advice you would give your younger self?
To believe in what you are writing.
If you can reach just one person with your work, then you have reason to believe that you have reached a million! -Written Bt Tina Adams
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Writer
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Authors & Writers | Pg. 65
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Porsacha Stokes
Cynthia Camble
Author
CC Ink Publisher
I am an unique visionary to bring your
Upcoming
Author
for
2020.
written project to life.
Her genres include Fantasy, suspense,
With 20 years of Document and
fiction and self help. Her passion for
Information Management experience to
storytelling with her son fostered her
include working in the Government, Non
first publishing creation “Omni�. A book
Profit, and Private sectors, the power of
series for children. Her enjoyment of
the written word has always been my
mystery and the unknown propels the
great passion.
new author to share her stories with the
I am honored to work
with many athors locally and around the
world. -Written By Cynthia Camble
country. -Written By Cynthia Camble
Pg. 66 | Authors & Writers
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Brenda Jones
Mary Webb Kirkpatrick
Author
Author
This extraordinary woman has
A prolific writer. She is also a spiritual
touched many lives with her testimony
entrepreneur/business
who
and transparency to share and help
ministers in the marketplace which helps
many women come to a place of healing.
to establish and host the Presence of
Her relationship with God is the most
God and bring healing to the body, soul
important aspect in her life. She is a
and spirit of the people. She resides in
lover of truth and demands justice for
Colorado Springs with her husband and
those who can’t fend for themselves. She
her four Children.
believes you should live to your greatest
owner
-Written By Cynthia Camble
potential and never settle for second best. She also believes the only way this is possible is to find your identity in God. -Written By Cynthia Camble
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Authors & Writers | Pg. 67
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Kevin Mitchell Author
A community activist, emcee,
and poet. As Executive Director of the Empowerment Solidarity Network, he works to lift up Families of Color and other marginalized groups throughout Colorado Springs, Colorado.
His first book of poetry, Words
from a Field Negro, is a portrait of an unapologetic black male – a raw perspective of a modern-day “field negro” in American society. His second book, Drowning in Salt Water, documents the process of Mitchell’s recovery as an adult survivor of child sexual assault.
This
amazing writer is authentic and bold and not afraid to address the elephants in the room that we often avoid. -Written By Kevin Mitchell
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Writer
Words From A Field Negro
Pg. 68 | Authors & Writers
Drowning In Salt Water
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Contact Information clarenceshuleronline.com
Dr. Clarence Shuler Author
For over 30 years, Clarence
and his wife, Brenda have conducted marriage, discipleship, men‘s, women’s, and singles’ seminars internationally. They speak for Family Life’s Weekend Marriage
Getaway
Conferences.
Clarence assisted the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services with its National
African
American
Healthy
Marriage Initiative.
He’s
Education
certified
for
in
Professional
Marriage Training.
He speaks for “Iron Sharpens Iron” and for the “National Football League Chapels.”
As a Life/Relationship Coach,
Clarence helps executives experience fulfillment
in
professional
their lives.
personal He’s
and
authored
numerous books. -Written By Clarence Shuler
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Writer
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Authors & Writers | Pg. 69
Contact Information ChamasLee.Com
Charmas B. Lee
Pg. 70 | Authors & Writers
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Charmas B. Lee Author, Speaker
has
For more than 30 years, Charmas been
challenging
transform
their
lives
dynamic
brand
of
individuals
to
through
his
introspection,
motivation and personal development. His unique charismatic approach to lifelong positive change is cultivated from extensive professional experience building champion athletes at all levels of competition including: the National Football League, United States Figure Skating Association, United States Boxing Association and USA Track and Field.
As
a
coach
Charmas
has
developed keen insight into what is necessary to foster a true champion both on and off the field. He has adapted these insights into a comprehensive strategy that helps individuals, businesses, teams and corporations reach their full potential. Charmas
is
the
owner
of
Building
Champions, author of 6 books and has twice been a TEDx speaker. Charmas’ latest ground-breaking book titled “Think Say Do” Disrupting Systemic Cycles of Faulty Thinking. If you are striving to rise to the level of your potential and not live at the level of your disappointment, Think Say Do is for you. -Written By Charmas Lee
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Authors
Authors & Writers | Pg. 71
- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
PHOTOGRAPHERS
& MODELS FEATURES Pages 72-97
Photo By Danielle Trina Maliah Howard | Dancer
Pg. Photographers & Models
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Contact Information danielletrina.com
Daniella Trina Photographer
I’m a photographer. I use various
types of cameras including an iPhone and a GoPro. I’m a photographer because I am eager to show the world a different way of looking at beauty through my point of view. I’m in love with images and how images can tell the story of a person. Pictures are a universal language; they can speak to anyone. I want my photographs to make you stop, stare, and to experience the same deep emotion I felt possibly. How did you get started taking pictures?
wasn’t meant to be at my corporate job. So
biggest things I learned about myself;
I’ve been taking pictures forever.
I walked out of my job one day, picked up
how to focus and make things work. I had
I was always the friend with the camera.
my camera, and I haven’t put it down since.
to strive to learn something constantly. I
I graduated back in the film days, twenty years ago. I’ve always loved taking pictures. People always told me back then that I had a gift, and I was like, huh? Maybe I
tell people that I mentor that you’ve got What are some of your biggest learning experiences?
Oh my gosh, so much! The first
do have this gift. Maybe there’s something
thing that I learned was to stick with a
there, but I didn’t know what I could do
goal. In the past, I always bounced from
with photography as far as a career went.
one thing to another. I wanted to do
Now I am about to celebrate ten
business, then psychology, and then be an
years of being in remission from pancreatic
actress. I was on a 20-year college plan,
cancer. Five years ago, I realized that I was
and I never finished anything. When I took
still here and that I beat the odds. Doctors
a leap of faith and decided to leave my
don’t give you very long to live after you’ve
job, I had to make it work. When you know
been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
that you have to bring in income, it forces
I had the surgery, and five years after, I
you to focus. That’s probably one of the
to focus on learning something every day about your business or craft, even if it’s for five minutes. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Photo
was still here. That’s when I decided that I
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Photographers & Models Pg. 73
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Photo By Danielle Trina Maya Howard | Dancer
Pg. Photographers & Models
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Photo By Danielle Trina Nick | Real Estate
Nick
Real Estate
A Colorado Native.
Nick has
been the talk of the town lately as they are calling him the realtor that looks like
Not only does Nick own a real estate company, he also teaches yoga. -Written By Danielle Trina
Usher. Nick is a phenomenal role model. Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Photographers & Models Pg. 75
Photo By Danielle Trina Brielle Marie-Claudel Trina
Brielle
is my mini me.
Marie-Claudel
Trina
the midst of those dreams. I am leaving
Brielle represents the
her a legacy, showing her proof, daily, she
unexpected, one of the many hues of the African Americans in Our Black Colorado.
can be anything she wants to be. -Written By Danielle Trina
Brielle is my inspiration, she is the reason I dream and constantly continue to live in Pg. Photographers & Models
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Photo By Danielle Trina Maliah Howard | Dancer
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Photographers & Models Pg. 77
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Jeanette Falu Bishop Portrait Photography
I
winning
Colorado Magazine 2019. I’m extremely
Many people may feel that they are not
photographer and have been in the
grateful for the opportunities given
photogenic but I personally don’t think
industry for 4 years. I have this deep
and learned so much throughout this
that’s true and will guide you through
passion for uncovering the inner light
experience. My biggest takeaway from
the entire process. I want to take the
of
this journey is to keep your authentic voice.
best photo you’ve ever seen of yourself.
others
am
and
an
award
taking
portraits
in
the way my clients want to be seen.
entrusted to create your personal and
I was featured for my very first
feature cover photo in the My Black
Pg. Photographers & Models
It is a great honor to be
professional
-Written By Jeanette Falu-Bishop
photographic memories.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Photo By Jeanette Falu-Bishop Rebecca Vanterpool | Dancer
At the age of 8 my son wanted
to learn how to flip. After researching some, we came across Capoeira. After 6 months of training it was time for Batizado or ranking ceremony. Seeing the the beautiful movements performed at a higher level inspired me to join as well. During my 12 years training I was introduced to Samba and other wonderful dances of the Afro Brazilian culture. Intrigued by the quick step, hip movement and percussions, I was hooked. -Written By Rebecca Vanterpool
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Photographers & Models Pg. 79
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The Beauty of Panama Photo By Jeanette Falu-Bishop
Pg. Photographers & Models
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The Beauty of Panama
Photo By Jeanette Falu-Bishop
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Photographers & Models Pg. 81
Contact Information jangelvisuals.com
Jordan Johnson Photographer
Jordan
Johnson
of
J
Angel
Visuals LLC is a freelance videographer/ photographer
that
has
an
extreme
passion for cinema and the art of photography. It all started back in 2013 when he picked up and saw the GoPro action camera. The idea of shooting and editing was something new and exciting and ever since then he has been able to grow in the art form of photography
Photo By Jordan Johnson Kaeyra Velez | Model “Taken in my in home studio. I strived to create
and grow into a full-time photographer/
something simplistic yet
videographer. Natively from Colorado
eye catching.�
Springs, he now lives in Denver, Co in
-Written By Jordan Johnson
order to grow his business even more! -Written By Jordan Johnson Pg. Photographers & Models
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Photo By Jordan Johnson LuWavy | Model
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
Photo By Jordan Johnson Reanne Park | Model
Photographers & Models Pg. 83
Contact Information leonard-anderson.photo
Leonard Anderson Photographer
Can you explain to us what it is that you
I joined the army when I was 18. I bought a
film in the darkroom. Now pictures are
do?
film camera so I could capture some of my
digital, and we can enhance them in a way
I’m a self-taught photographer.
travels. I took pictures everywhere I went:
that I would have never thought possible.
I don’t have a degree in photography. I
Germany, Japan, Korea, Spain, Thailand,
learned on my own. I’m a visual learner,
California, and Maryland. Years later, MY
What advice would you give to your
and anytime I try to shoot something new, I
wife saw that I was getting more serious
younger self?
do some research on it and figure out what
about my photography, and set me up to
I need and then practice it. I primarily focus
take some local photography workshops
actually learning the art of photography
on portraits and headshots, but fashion is
in Denver. In 2015 I decided to start my
instead of just spending so many years
my passion.
photography business.
just taking pictures, hoping to get the right
I would have started sooner with
shot. How did you get started?
What are you learning about your
industry?
I guess you can say I started at a
young age. My uncle used to take me to the
navy yard every weekend to take pictures. I
of how images are developed. Back in the
watched him develop film in the darkroom.
day, my uncle showed me how to develop
Pg. Photographers & Models
-Written By Brandon Bornes
I have seen the transformation Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
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Photo By Leonard Anderson Black Manifestations
Who are the models?
Where did you shoot?
wanted to do a Wakanda-themed shoot
with some of the models that I had pre-
The models from left-to-right are:
Dominique Bargaineer, D’kilwayte Johnson,
Kymora Jaxson Photography Stu-
dio in Aurora, CO (now closed).
Lesia Michelle, Romain Washington-Duke,
viously only worked with at fashion shows. The studio shoot gave us an opportuni-
Alicia Myers, and Danielle L. Taylor. The
Why did you choose this theme?
ty to work with a variety of models and
Concept Developer and MUA is Tennisia
Tennisia and I collaborate on
showcase their talents collectively. What
Littleton of TL Professional Services, LLC.
photo shoots either with her as the model
we didn’t know is that these models have
The Project name is: Tribal Manifestations
or one of us comes up with a concept and
been wanting to work with us as well, so it
of Us: Part 1.
then we talk it over then make it happen.
worked out perfectly!
This was one of those shoots where we
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
-Written By Leonard Anderson
Photographers & Models Pg. 85
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Photo By Leonard Anderson Tennisia Littleton-Broberg | Model Native Thoughts Why did you chose to shoot Tennisia?
Tennisia and I always create some
amazing images when we collaborate. This particular shoot was the first one using my (new at the time) Phase One IQ3 100MP Medium Format camera. I told her that I wanted her to be the first model that I shot with the new camera. When I first met Tennisia back in 2017, during the course of our conversations, she mentioned that she was Native.
This particular photo allowed
her to be herself and show a side that is rarely seen. We didn’t really shoot with any particular agenda. She brought multiple outfits but this was one of my favorites and we shot two different sets. I remember that she seemed to be quite at peace during this photo shoot and very relaxed. One of my favorite photos of her even to this day! What Techniques did you use?
This photo was shot using two
strip boxes with Tennisia sitting perfectly centered between them. I believe that this was one of the first shoots where I started using this particular lighting setup. -Written By Leonard Anderson
Pg. Photographers & Models
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Why did you choose to shoot Jessca?
Jessica is another model that I’ve
been fortunate enough to work with at various Denver fashion shows in 2017. After taking most of 2018 off from doing fashion shows, I saw Jessica in September of this year at the Colorado Tattoo Convention & Fashion Show. We talked and caught up briefly. I expressed an interest in doing a shoot in the studio and in her football uniform. I had just recently noticed that she played on a woman’s football team and wanted to do a different kind of fitness shoot. Our schedules finally aligned late in October for the shoot. What Techniques did you use?
I
had
recently
bought
some
high-end LED lights to do headshots and fashion shoots in studio. This shoot was one of the first shoots that I could use my RGBW LEDs for something other than headshots. I used 2 x color LEDs and a Profoto B1X strobe with a medium Octobox and grid. The LEDs were turned toward the white Cync wall and set to the team’s orange and blue colors. The subtle pop from the gridded strobe was enough to light Jessica without blowing out the
Photo By Leonard Anderson
backdrop and washing out the colored background. I also shot tethered with my Phase One IQ3 100MP Medium Format camera and Wacom Cintiq LCD tablet to
Jessica Baumann | Denver Dream, Tight End, #9
ensure the images were sharp. -Written By Leonard Anderson
Model:
Legends Kaeyra
Football League
Velez
This image was taken in my in home studio. I strived to create something simplistic yet eye catching. I pride my photography on the details and fell like everything came together so nicely .
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Charlie Billingsly
Charlie B Photography
I’m a digital content creator
and learn from it and try again and do it
What would you tell yourself?
based
in
better.
Denver.
I
create
sets
for
photography backdrops. Additionally, I
care anyone thinks...
am a photographer and event planner.
What’s your style of photography?
I’m literally a doer of all things. If the
task involves anything creative, I do it. I’ve
My style is very vibrant. I like rich, bold
learned that if you have an idea, go for
colors. My pictures stand out if you see
it.do it. The worst thing you can do is fail
them because they really draw you in.
Pg. Photographers & Models
I would tell my younger self not to -Written By Brandon Bornes
I’m still trying to figure that out. Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
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Photo By Charlie Billingsly Tasha | Model A beautiful, world traveling yogi. She is one of my Kaeyra absolute favoriteVelez people. This image was taken in my in home In this photo she modeled Model:
studio. I strived to create something for my Melanin Calendar I simplistic yet eye released catching.last I pride year. my
photography on the details andby fell like B. -Written Charlie everything came together so nicely .
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Photo By Charlie Billingsly Omo | Model A Denver model/Owner of 247 in the mix boutique. She is also a brand ambassador for Fenty and was also featured
in
the
Fenty
Fashion show documentary. She was featured in my Musuem for Black Girls in Denver. -Written By Charlie B.
Pg. Photographers & Models
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Photo By Charlie Billingsly Irma | Model Model:
Kaeyra
Velez
A young, beautiful up and
This image was taken in my in home
coming
studio. I strived to create something
model
and
an
amazing artist. -Written By Charlie B.
simplistic yet eye catching. I pride my photography on the details and fell like everything came together so nicely .
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Dre Lamar
Photographer
My name is Andre’ and I am a
photographer located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I enjoy photography because I like to bring out the best in each and every person that I photograph, from all range of ages. What makes me different from others is my passion for encompassing my clients vision, and really collaborating on concepts for the shoot. I expertise in various types of photography such as: Wedding, Portraits, Children, Fashion, and
Photo By Dre Lamar Teejan | Model
Headshots.
Pg. Photographers & Models
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Photo By Dre Lamar
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Photo By Dre Lamar
Photographers & Models Pg. 93
Contact Information tendophotography.com
Juliet Miles Photographer
I am a portrait artist. My passion
for photography ignited about 20 years ago while traveling around the world.
I
went on to earn my college degree as a photographer. A few years later I earned my certification with Professional Photographers of America (PPA).
I
am currently an adjunct instructor at Pikes Peak Community College teaching fundamentals of photography classes. My
I was born and raised in Uganda. childhood
there
was
during
the
turbulent times of President Idi Amin. When I was a teenager, my family fled to the United States where we began a new life. We arrived here with nothing but a
Photo By Juliet Miles Nia Renee | Model African pride in the western frontier, Steampunk with an African twist.
suitcase each and our faith in God. Pg. Photographers & Models
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Photo By Juliet Miles
Photo By Juliet Miles
Cidney Moore | Model
Janaè Sims | Model
Africa may be called the
Beautiful even when feeling
Dark Continent but the people make it shine.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Photographers
blue.
Photographers & Models Pg. 95
Contact Information BornesPro.com
Brandon& Jini Bornes Multimedia
BornesPro Media is a multimedia
business located in Colorado Springs. They have established a dependable reputation as an incredibly professional and creatively competent
brand
amid
the
Colorado
Springs community.
Bornes
Pro
Media
offers
videography, photography, and multimedia production services for a broad and diverse
clientele.
Targeted
markets
include television, small business, large corporations, various forms of artistry, individual and family portraits, and social media marketing and promotion. The company utilizes the latest technology to create captivating video and picture production that is both affordable and of high quality.
Photo By BornesPro Media Emerald Taylor | Financial Advisor
Pg. Photographers & Models
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Photo By BornesPro Media Regina Guy-English
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Photo By BornesPro Dr. Clarence & Dr. Brenda Shuler Marriage Counselors
Photographers & Models Pg. 97
Caste Of
The Raisin In The Sun Theatreworks at The ENT Center For The Arts
Pg. 98 Theatre
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- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
THEATRE
ACTORS & DIRECTORS
FEATURES Pages 99-107
Lynne Hastings Actress & Director
As Interim Artists Director of Theatreworks, until late 2019, and with over 20 years of experience in theatre, Lynne Hastings has impacted many around her with her enthusiasm for the arts.
How did you get to where you are today?
be interested in joining Theatreworks
rent and bills, which left little or no time
I have been acting since high
as Artistic Producer while the search
to audition. It was difficult to find paying
school and lived in New York for a few
continued for an Artistic Director. It was
work as an actor that would allow me to
years after college, where I attended
perfect timing and an opportunity to
not work one of my other jobs for a period
the American Musical and Dramatic
start a new career in a field that I love. I
of time. I came to the realization that
Academy’s
I
had an opportunity to use my corporate
being a working actor was a job, and that
returned to Colorado Springs in 1995 and
experience in a new environment and help
wasn’t what I wanted acting to be in my
was able to find work as an actor. It was
out an organization that was very dear to
life at that time. I felt I had failed, but my
not enough to make a living at the time,
me.
mom wisely told me that it wasn’t a failure
so I also worked for an audio and web
but more of a coming of age, a part of
conferencing company. I spent 20 years
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the
figuring out what I wanted in life...
working there and acting when possible
story – has it been an easy path overall
in town. I was laid off by the company
and if not, what were the challenges
in October 2017. I was approached by
you’ve had to overcome?
Drew Martorella, Executive Director of
UCCS Presents, and he asked if I would
was real. I was working three jobs to pay
Conservatory
program.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Theatre
-Excerpt By voyagedenver.com
As an actor in NYC, the struggle
Theatre Pg. 99
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Abner Grenece Actor
I am Abner Genesee and am a
What motivated you to get into the
local actor, director, teacher, artist, father,
theater industry?
and storyteller here in the Denver area. I am
a member of the Actors Equity Association.
and
I’m also a member of Sag-Aftra; both of
representation. I’m of Haitian descent.
which are trade unions. I also serve as a
Both of my parents are from Haiti, so I’m
board member of the Colorado Theater
seeking to expand the understanding of
Guild. I tell stories at different theaters
our culture and reaching out to younger
here in the Colorado area. I started out
folks that can see themselves in these roles
doing that in New York, where I got my
as well.
For me, it’s all about connecting storytelling
and
particularly
So what have you been recently excited about in your career?
I’m
excited
about
basically
seeing more people who look like me in the audience, and I’m excited to see more culturally diverse audiences who can see themselves represented on stage. -Written By Brandon Bornes
training. I moved to the West Coast during the 90’s and eventually made my home in Denver. Pg. 100 Theatre
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donnie l. betts Actor & Director
An
Emmy
Award
winner
filmmaker, 4 time CABJ award winning radio journalist and Broadway performer. He is a founding member of two theatre companies in Denver, City Stage Ensemble and Denver Black Arts Company.
He attended Yale School of
Drama. donnie is an artist in residence for the State of Colorado. His theatre performance credits include “The Gospel at Colonus” on Broadway, “The Warrior Ant” at BAM as well as many regional performances including “Spunk”, “Driving Miss Daisy”, “Home”, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone”, and many more. Theatre directing includes “Crumbs From the Table of Joy”, “K2”, “Emperor Jones” “Zora” and “Slut Energy Theory” and over 30 other productions. His film credits include “Switchback” and “Honeydripper” both written and directed by John Sayles.
His
production
company,
No
Credits Productions produces the award winning radio drama “Destination Freedom, Black Radio Days”, and documentary films including “Music is My Life, Politics My Mistress: The Story of Oscar Brown Jr.” screened at over 25 film festivals worldwide... winner of eleven “Best Documentary”... -Written By donnie l. betts
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Theatre Pg. 101
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Betty Hart
Actress & Director What do you do in the theater industry?
My name is Betty Heart, and I
am an equity actress and theatre director. Actors Equity Association is a union for professional actors. It’s a union that guarantees the fees that we’re paid when we accept a role. Payment is arranged in advance and based on the size of the theater and the cost of the tickets. We’re also paid health benefits, and we get a pension. So you’re paid to be a part of the union, and you have to meet other criteria to get in, but it’s a big deal in the sense that it separates you from people who pursue theater as a hobby. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.
As a professional director, when
you go see a show, everything that you see happened in part because of the director’s vision. The director is responsible for casting, set design, playwright, and cast development and composers. How long have you been in the theater industry?
In our business age is a big thing.
People try to typecast you to play roles based on your age, which limits what you can do. I always knew that I wanted to be a part of the theater. My mom says that she knew when I was young too. So, she allowed me to pursue theater and to audition for shows and to get trained. I had family support, which everyone doesn’t have. I went to college for theater... Model:
-Written Bornes Kaeyra By Brandon Velez
This image was taken in my in home Read Article At studio. I strived toFull create something MyBlackColorado.com/Theatre simplistic yet eye catching. I pride my photography on the details and fell like everything came together so nicely . Pg. 102 Theatre
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Cherish Evans
Actress & Director
I went to school at the University
personality. So my parents just kind of
voice lessons, and staying hydrated. You’re
of Northern Colorado and Greeley for
threw me into voice lessons. I had a vocal
always looking up or working on new
musical theater. So I’ve been doing theater
teacher who also taught drama, and then I
music...
for a really really long time. The theater is
just knew after that. That was something I
my absolute passion. I would die without
really wanted to do.
it, and I always say how amazing I feel to have this opportunity. There’s nothing like
What are the things you’ve been learning
it in this world.
on the business side?
a lot of hard work that goes into it from
theater?
physically taking care of yourself, making I’ve always had such a bright
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Theatre
You have to be yourself. There’s
How did you get connected to the
-Written By Brandon Bornes
sure you go to the gym regularly, taking
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Theatre
Theatre Pg. 103
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Marisa Herbert Actress
A Colorado Springs native who
the Colorado Springs theatre community.
studied Theatre and Women’s Studies
She has worked with the Fine Art Center,
at the University of Northern Colorado.
Millibo Art Theatre, TheatreWorks, Springs
Marisa
Arts Ensemble, and StarBar.
is
an
actor,
director,
and
playwright, as well as an active member of
Pg. 104 Theatre
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Rakeem Lawrence Actor & Educator
I’m an actor and a teaching
could have a career in it until I went to
know if they even want to study theater.
artist in theater. I love the theater
college. I made some friends who took
I give them a foundation, and their
because I think it speaks to the masses.
acting very seriously. Then, I start taking
understanding grows. Theater helps
We heal people, we entertain people,
a couple of musical theater classes, and
people with communication skills, such
and we teach people about the human
I fell in love with it. I went to graduate
as speaking with confidence in front of
condition. That’s what I love about it. The
school, and then I started working
other people. Young minds understand
theater is therapeutic even, it connects
professionally.
the worth in their point of view and how
with some of our deepest emotions,
important it is to articulate and speak
from pain to joy, and it shines a light on
Tell us about the theatre from an
their mind on certain issues. I think that’s
topical issues that need to be addressed.
educational perspective:
lovely.
I teach at the Community
How did you get involved in theatre?
College of Aurora. I love it. I get to work
I did a couple of plays in high
with a lot of kids that probably don’t
school, but I didn’t really know that you
know as much about theater. They don’t
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Theatre Pg. 105
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Kennedy Pugh Actor & Educator
An esteemed member of the
vocal music and theatrical community in Pueblo, Kennedy is a Pueblo County High graduate with degrees in music, theatre and speech and has toured the country as a professional performing in musical theatre Broadway runs. Kennedy’s professional career spans years of performing on such significant stages as the Virginia Stage Company, Lyric Stage and New Rep in Boston, Waterfront Playhouse in Key West, and the Denver Center and Arvada Center to name a few. Nominated for the Denver Post Ovation Award, his talents are vast and varied as a ‘triple threat.’ -Written By Kennedy Pugh
Pg. 106 Theatre
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Maya Hastings Actress
Maya
Hastings
been
is a freshman in Palmer High School’s
performing as an actor since she was
International Baccalaureate Program. She
in
in-school
also participates in Speech and Debate.
educational arts programs. She played
She loves Musical Theatre and hopes to
multiple
pursue a career in either Performing Arts
elementary
Cratchit,
school
characters, in
has via
including
Theatreworks’
of A Christmas Carol in 2018.
Belinda
production She also
or History. -Written By Maya Hastings
draws and plays violin and ukulele. She Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Theatre
Theatre Pg. 107
Contact Information iamdetour.com
- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR FEATURES Pages 108-131
Pg. 108 Creative Entrepreneurs
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
Thomas Evans | Detour Mixed Media Artist
Thomas
Evans,
a.k.a.
Detour,
is an all-around creative specializing in large scale public art, interactive visuals, portraiture, immersive spaces, and creative directing. His focus is to create work where art and innovation meet. A born collaborator and “military brat,” Detour pulls from every conceivable experience that shapes his landscapes and perspectives. Explaining Detour’s work is no easy task, as ongoing experimentations in visual art, music, and interactive technologies have his practice continually expanding. With his everevolving approach to art, Detour’s focus is on expanding customary views of creativity and challenging fine-art paradigms by mixing traditional mediums with new approaches—all the while opening up the creative process from that of a singular artist, to one that thrives on multi-layered collaboration and viewer participation. -Excerpt from.iamdetour.com
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Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 109
Contact Information latishahardy.com
Latisha Hardy
Dance & Company
“I am a professional dancer, and
school. I even earned a scholarship to
But maybe you‘re just going through
I own a studio. I teach anywhere from
play basketball in college, but I still had
something that is hard in your life. I‘m
beginner level to pre-professional adult
a passion for dance. I didn‘t start seriously
here to inspire people to go after what
dancers in various styles of Latin dances.
dancing until I was in my early 20s. I
they want in life, and I do that through
We are getting more into pop and more
stuck with it, worked hard and became a
the medium of dance because that‘s my
traditional dances like ballet, modern,
professional. Now l get invited to places
passion.
Brazilian and break dancing. The overall
all over the nation. That is exciting, and
goal is to diversify the curriculum to give
I want to inspire and empower people to
How do you help new people feel
people a wide range of body movement.
keep dancing no matter what.
welcomed?
I also host social events around town so
people can have fun, practice what they're
or any of those things that we think are
or interested in dance; we offer preview
learning and also be social, hanging out
inhibitors, we can still be successful and
sessions to show people what it is that
and making new friends.”
happy in our lives. I used dance to get
we do. We try to make things safe and
out of an abusive relationship. So for me,
welcoming as possible to get people to
How did you get started?
dancing gave me my life back and my
start overcoming their fear of dancing.
I did ballet and gymnastics when
passion. I want to be able to do that for
I was young, but I focused on basketball
anybody. It doesn‘t mean that you have to
from about six all the way through high
be coming out of an abusive relationship.
Pg. 110 Creative Entrepreneurs
No matter your age, color, size
We get people who are curious
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
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As
an
entrepreneur
and
dancing
based on what it means to run a business,
dancer. Everyone seems to think that
professional, what advice would you
you're not going to be very successful. One
about artists, which is true. It’s because
give to people who want to be in your
of the main reasons why most artists fail
of the ignorance and not understanding
industry?
is because they don’t know how to sell
what it means to run a business. It's not
themselves. I have a master's degree in
just about being a dynamic artist, but a
business.
dynamic individual as well. -Written By
I would encourage them heavily
to pursue and understand business. You can be very talented but dont forget that
As I was studying, i knew I need to
your talent is your service and it is your
figure out how to make this work because I
business. If you don't have any knowledge
refuse to be a starving artist or the broke
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Brandon Bornes Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 111
Contact Informationn aceent1.com
Ace Entertainment Promoters
Ace Entertainment was founded
in 1979 in Detroit, Michigan, also known as The Motor City, the home of Motown Music, and the Automotive Capital of the World! We have promoted some of the best entertainment events in the United States.
When the opportunity presented
itself in 2007, we found a new base and relocated to Colorado. Since then we have provided continued support and entertainment for the community. Ace Entertainment is proud to be the promoter of the First Saturday’s Car Show and Summer Concert Series at First & Main. As well as taking the helm of the Old Colorado City Customs & Classics Car Show (formally known as The Good Times Car Show).
Pg. 112 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Contact Information rionevans.com
Rion Evans
Comedian & Actor
Rion Evans has been making
people laugh for fifteen years. Initially, he did not pursue comedy, it found him when he accepted a job as a D.J., at a comedy club in Los Angeles. His position afforded him the opportunity to rub shoulders
with
numerous
comedians
who headlined at the club; and to his enjoyment, made them laugh! It was then, Evans realized he had a gift. Even as an amateur, his talent was formidable. “I started to realize I could obtain that same power they possessed on stage.”
Since this realization, Evans has
steadily climbed his way to headlining and appearing at some of the nation’s top comedy clubs, networks, and festivals: BET’s One Mic Stand, Laugh Out Loud Network, Bill Bellemy’s Who’s Got Jokes?, and the Mo’Nique Show to name a few. “Being undeniable” and “making laughter the only option” are two philosophies Evans
lives
by.
Evans
continues
to
entertain, inspire, and delight audiences around the world. -Excerpt from Rionevans.com
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Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 113
Contact Information afrotriangledesigns.com
Adri Smith
Afro Triangle
What do you do?
The core of what I do is create
artwork about women in history, and I use that artwork as an educational tool. My work enables me to go into schools and teach students. I try to make the sessions as informal as possible about women in history, the time frames in which they lived, why we must look backward, and I try to encourage them to seek diversity. I also urge them to do research projects of their own, which they can then turn into an art project. I’ve noticed for myself that having to find a way to describe an image, solidifies information about the image more. Every product that I create is educational in some way, shape, or form from the original paintings, which are mixed media and watercolor, all the way to the trading cards and coloring books. I do not create art for art’s sake. I create art for education. How long did it take before you progressed from just being creative to making creativity a business?
I’ve
always
been
creative.
I
announced when I was seven years old that I was going to be an artist when I grew up. I was in the military, and my mom used to send my sketchbook to boot camp like it was that serious. So I’ve always known in some way that I would use my art to make money. I moved out to Denver to attend art school. I went to the Art Institute of Pg. 114 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Colorado, and I studied animation. When you go to art school, they try to push you into jobs. They were trying to usher me into the film industry and the video game industry, but I didn’t feel like either of those were the realms for me. I’ve always been more interested in classical art and showings of traditional paintings.
I got into freelance graphic
design, designing logos, and that kind of thing. But I got to a point where I was creating portraitures, kids’ paintings, and the like. People loved them. I’ve always been a bit of an information junkie. I’ve always loved watching documentaries and listening to podcasts and reading books about all kinds of different topics. So I came up with the idea of showcasing women in history. It was the perfect marriage of my creative aspects, as well as my intellectual perspective. What are some of your core values?
I believe that the job of an artist
is to either record culture, create culture or both. If you look at ancient formations, it shows you what people were doing and thinking at the time. At the same time, you’ve got things like propaganda, media, and film poetry that changes people’s mind because it gives them the ability to dream. A vast majority of our scientific advances came from the works of Science Fiction. Writing is a testament to our ability to change the culture as well. What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self
to pay more attention to what’s going on outside and simultaneously be more
faithful to what’s happening inside. I had
things and don’t listen to the naysayers.
a lot of insecurities growing up, and even
I’m not the first person to make money
recently just trying to make it as an artist.
with my artwork, and I won’t be the last.
Historically, the narrative has been that
Yes, it would have been wonderful if it
artists are “starving,” that you can’t make
didn’t take me so long to figure it out. But
money off this, that you’re going to Ramen
I learned everything I was supposed to,
Noodles for the rest of your life, or that
exactly when I was supposed to.
you’re going to get stuck being a teacher. I think that narrative is entirely false and is being fed by the fact that we don’t teach businesses in grade or trade schools. So, I would tell my younger self to pay attention to how other people are successfully doing
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
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Contact Information afrotriangledesigns.com
Pg. 116 Creative Entrepreneurs
Afro Triangle | Playing Cards
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Afro Triangle | Playing Cards
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
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Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 117
Contact Information afrotriangledesigns.com
Afro Triangle | History Boards
Audre Lorde Audre Lorde was a poet, educator and activist for Women’s Rights, Civil Rights and Gay Rights. She called out the ways in which each movement alienated those who belonged to more than one of these groups at the same time.
Josephine Baker Josephine Baker was a dancer, singer, French Spy and eccentric rich lady who came from the gutter. She refused to play for segregated audiences and adopted 12 children of different races to show the world what racial harmony looks like.
Pg. 118 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Afro Triangle | History Boards
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Katherine Johnson Katherine Johnson was a mathematical genius, and at a time when few Black women had opportunities, she got to work for NASA. She used her skills to help send the first American off this planet and return him safely to Earth.
Billie Holiday Billie Holiday was a jazz and blues singer who pioneered the ways in which artists use the microphone. She used her popularity to further the cause of Civil Rights, singing Strange Fruit at every show to raise awareness of the lynching of Black men in the South.
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Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 119
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
the warmth of his memory, and as though they knew him too:
“My father was a blue-collar,
manly man. He liked working with his hands and would make art for our home out of practical, everyday things. My sister was artistically gifted from the beginning; I wasn’t. When my father passed, my artistic talents suddenly blossomed. My father was the bedrock of our family; his death left a huge hole. Exploring my gifts allowed me to capture fond memories of my family and grieve his loss.”
Although
whimsical,
Lia’s
art
also has a cathartic bent, which awakens fond memories and facilitates healing in the hearts of admirers of her work. Having been thrice commissioned by Judge Kristopher Colley – City of Aurora, Tracey Lovett—Vice President of Daniels Foundation, and Ryan Ross— Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs for Colorado College Systems, demonstrates her aesthetic breadth.
Lia Nelson
Little Brown Skin Girls
Lia Nelson is a uniquely talented
artist. For the past six years, she’s been creating beautifully delicate, Black-centric Paper Art, using a distinctive mix of the Decoupage
and
Kirigami
technique.
The result is a strikingly accurate, and wonderfully imaginative depiction of Black culture in motion.
Lia attributes her flair for art
and design to her beloved father, who has since passed away. She speaks of him so lovingly that a listener could readily feel Pg. 120 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Evermore impressive is Lia’s creations are
Nelson hosts an annual exhibition at the
It’s important to know these things take
one-of-a-kind, custom art pieces. People
Blair Caldwell African American Library,
time. So, do you, do your thing; however
have tried to replicate her originals, but
also located in Denver. The next showing is
you do it.”
the distinctiveness of the prototypes
scheduled for April 2020. Members of the
was lost in the process. The inability to
community happily anticipate her yearly
Collier once related: “vision reaches beyond
reproduce her artwork has increased its
show and in particular, ambitious youths.
the thing that is, into the conception of
reverence and value. Though esteemed
To aspiring artists, Lia humbly advises
what can be. Imagination gives you the
for its facets of exclusivity and originality,
confidence in their individualism:
picture. Vision gives you the impulse to
interested buyers shouldn’t expect to pay
“In my youth up through when I
make the picture your own.” Lia’s creations
extravagant pricing as Lia’s pieces range
first began college, I would discard what I
are reigning illustrations of what we may
from $30 – $50.
created because I didn’t think it looked as
pull in from the abyss of imagination if we
Today, a gallery of her work can
good as whoever’s. I got over my insecurity
dare only to reach.
be found at Bella Luna Gifts & Gallery, an
when I realized what I was creating was
astonishing gathering house for the designs
unlike anything I’d ever seen. Eventually, I
of local artists and handcrafted jewelry
would go on to find my own thing through
from international locations. As well, Ms.
Little Brown Skin Girls in my early fifties.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
On the topic of vision, Robert
-Written By Porsha Stuckey
Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 121
Contact Information designatphf.com (719 822-1658
Ralph MCcoy
Owner of PHF Design
Ralph McCoy of PHF Design
me chills, those chills soon would turn
is a freelance Graphic Designer and
into my passion! Natively from Kansas
photographer
extreme
City, Mo , he now lives in Fountian, Co.
passion for helping small business brand
Networking and attending MBC events
themselves. It all started back in 2006
has allow him to connect with small
when he design his first logo for a billiards
business and grow his business even more!
company. The idea of desiging something
-Written By Ralph McCoy
that
has
an
from notes taking from client and a blanks sheet of paper. I felt designing was something new and exciting, it gave
Pg. 122 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Model:
Kaeyra
Velez
This image was taken in my in home studio. I strived to create something simplistic yet eye catching. I pride my photography on the details and fell like everything came together so nicely .
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 123
Contact Contact Information Information aaylc-co.org designatphf.com
Brother Jeff Fard
Multimedia Journalist
Jeff S. Fard, Colorado native,
known as Brother Jeff, is a multimedia journalist,
historian,
and
community
organizer. Fard is a national speaker to youth, students, social organizations, and professionals. There are a vast amount of topics Fard speaks on like cultural identity and history, diversity, self-empowerment, community
building,
economic
development, health disparities, and the uniting power or art. Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center, founded in 1994, is located in the historic Five Points District of Northeast Denver. It was a space established for nurturing growth, strength, and develop the voice of the community. Brother Jeff is also a publisher and editor of the awardwinning monthly publication 5 Points News. Tell me the story behind launching Brother Jeff's Cultural Center.
Back in the day, I was one of the
early pioneers of Colorado Hip-Hop. I was the Dj for a group called, The Legion of Doom. In the early 90s, black communities had an increase in gangs, drugs, and violence. This started in Los Angeles. Colorado began emulating and taking on more of the violent culture of Los Angeles. We moved from conscious HipHop to aggressive gangster rap. At this point, I decided to leave the music industry and create what is now called Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center. I wanted to build a community that utilizes art and culture as a way to reach our youth, and get them positively involved in the community. If used right, music and culture have always been a way to reduce violence.
Pg. 124 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Kailani Dobson Dance
Kailani
Dobson
is
a
local
installation artist with a background in movement-based works and a love for film and textiles. She is passionate about making dance more accessible by taking performances off the stage and exclusively performing in galleries and public spaces. Kailani believes that art is a communitydriven endeavor that benefits from the conglomeration of multiple artforms.
As the creator and artistic director
of Merikai Studio, she aims to create a space in which various artists can come together and create new bodies of work that not only elevate their own practice but shine a light on the various art forms present.
Her inspiration comes primarily
from two sources: a local dance professor, Stephanie
Kobes-Newcomb
and
the
artistic director of the professional dance company Ormao, Jan Johnson. Working under Jan, Kailani became well versed with social media management and what it takes to run a studio. She uses her knowledge to help other creatives with website development, grant application, and creative consultation. Thanks to Kate Perdoni, she was introduced to installation art through ArtPOP 2017. This showed that gallery space was the ideal venue for presenting her work. visual
The ability to incorporate other media
stabilized
the
transient
nature of dance, and made the work more accessible beyond a single performance. Since then she has applied for multiple local grants and continues to present her collaborative work in the community under Merikai Studio. -Written By Kailani Dobson Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 125
Contact Information shinenation.org
Victoria Lipscomb
Founder of Shine Nation
We
are
a
non-profit
that
provides life changing, character building opportunities for under served youth in our community, through participation in the arts. Why did you start shine nation?
My mother and grandmother
raised my siblings and I. They worked hard to make sure we understood that our life didn't end at the end of our block. They worked even harder to make sure we had every opportunity they thought might be good for us. We want to do the same for the kids in our community. We both grew up in the Harrison School District, and when it came time to give back, we decided that we wanted to go back to where we started. We were excited about creating opportunities in
the
community
we
came
from.
We started working with Fox
Middle School and it was great. So we decided to create an after-school program. We decided to offer musical theater because it encompasses so many different artistic avenues from the visual arts to audio tech to acting, singing and dancing. We work with an average of 50 youth per production and have had a lot of success in inspiring the youth to be creative and express their creative sides. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz Pg. 126 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Shine Nation Student Testimonials
Daijah Lovett
I like how Shine Nation lets me
Nemiah Thompson
Shine Nation is a really fun com-
Anime Moussa
I like Shine Nation because it
be by myself and express how I feel about
munity that you can easily make friends
makes me feel good and makes me want
something and they take it into consid-
in, and they are really helpful when you
to sing and dance. I feel good because it
eration. For example, when I am playing
need them. Shine Nation helps a lot and
helps me with my anger issues. When I’m
the character I was placed as, they let me
takes a big role in our musicals that we
mad at something, Shine Nation helps me
have my own twist towards what I believe
do annually. Ms. Victoria always pushes us
relax by dancing and singing and having
the character should act like or sound like.
to our limits, when it comes to singing for
fun with my friends. They also make sure
While participating I have learned not to
our musicals. She will do whatever it takes
that I’m healthy, and they check in with me
fear what others might think and to step
in order for us to succeed and sound good
if something is wrong. They want me to be
outside the box. They have taught me to
singing. Also, she is just a great person in
there. The teachers of Shine Nation helped
never give up on the dreams that I have
general. Ms. Alana is a really great person,
me learn to be a better performer and I
and what I want to be, or how I think I will
and always gives us pointers on things that
feel more confident in school, too. Every-
turn out. Shine Nation has helped me be
we wouldn't have been able to do without
one should join Shine Nation because it’s a
successful by building my confidence and
her help. Everyone is just very helpful and
great place to be.
making sure that I do well in school in or-
Shine Nation is a great community. I'm so
der to participant.
glad to be a team with Shine Nation. Last year I wasn't sure if I wanted to be apart of the musical we did, but with the help of Shine Nation I realized how fun it would be to do. This year I got a lead role, The Beast, in our musical Beauty and the Beast Jr. I know they don't judge when it comes to who gets what, and that is one of my favorite things about them. Overall my experience with Shine Nation is amazing.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 127
Contact Information thesocial719.com
Kristina Wright Business Owner
Kristina Wright is the owner of
The Social, The Gallery Below and the award-winning Pen & Needles Tattoo shop in Colorado Springs.
Kristina won the
"woman of influence" award in 2018. She is an army veteran and cares deeply about her community.
The Social
The
boasts
beautiful
is available in-house and is operated
mezzanine overlooking the main stage;
and
functional
by attentive technicians dedicated to
accompanied by an outdoor patio to enjoy
interiors that can be uniquely customized
executing your vision.
a beautifully furnished, expansive outdoor
by clients. You can enjoy glamorous
roof with stunning open-air views of the
interiors while taking advantage of a
VIP club seating section is accompanied
functional DJ booth, wireless microphones,
by a four-sectioned private VIP seating
in-house keyboard, stage and full lighting
lounge with plush onyx crocodile seating.
system. Our state-of-the-art A/V system
Venture up one flight to a split level
industrial
Social
character
A lavish center floor four-tiered
city looking to Pikes Peak. -Excerpt from thesocial719.com
The Gallery Below Pg. 128 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Contact Information jazzfunkconnection.com
Michael Arkadie
Jazz Funk Connection
Michael Arkadie is a business
Together, he and Mrs. Arkadie, BSN,
mogul, mentor, and proprietor of the
founded one of ten, Black-owned Home
Jazz Funk Connection, a live music venue
Care agencies in the Denver Metropolitan
"created by musicians, for musicians, and
area. For twenty years, Mr. Arkadie
the fans who love to hear them!" The
effectively
establishment is a cultural jewel nestled
manager, but upon retiring envisioned
at the cross-section of Platte and Platte
attaining a new proprietorship relative to
Place, and gaining high esteem for its
his first love:
homey atmosphere, delicious menu, and
succeeded
as
a
corporate
"I wanted to open a place for
fantastic live music.
older Black people, or young Black people
and multiple upgrades, including sound-
Mr. Arkadie was Born in Denver
with old souls to come chill. I wanted an
proofing the 12' x 24" stage and a swanky
and raised in Park Hill, one of Denver's
all-Black house band and to provide the
VIP area.
oldest Black neighborhoods. His childhood
quality of entertainment worthy of my
locale meant he would almost inevitably
personal taste, as well as customers and
want people to know this is a good place
find his church home at Union Missionary
audiences."
to come, hear good music, eat good food,
Baptist, where at just nine years old,
"This is a grown-folks venue. I
Thus, Mr. Arkadie began scouting
and enjoy being Black! If you get on my
vocalist
potential sites and businesses for sale in
stage, you have to be good at what you
and talented drummer. Yet, the young
Colorado Springs. He'd long-since observed
do. You don't have to be a national title,
performer had years before exhibited a
the absence of "down-home" BBQ and soul
but you must be one of the best jazz/R&B
knack for musicianship:
food establishments throughout the city.
musicians out there."
he
emerged
a
strong
choir
"Music has always been my
As a mogul with a keen business mind,
first passion. I began playing stringed
he seized the opportunity to capitalize on
mogul include expansion to a chain and
instruments like the electric bass and
the scarcity of entertainment and cuisine
a mentorship program for hopeful high
acoustic guitar and was good. After
specific to Black culture.
school musicians. To aspiring Black business
an hour or so with any instrument, I
He discovered the Platte Place
Future
aspirations
for
the
professionals, Mr. Arkadie strongly advises
could master it enough to play a song.
location and was impressed with the layout
Eventually, I advanced to more complex
and built-in sound system. The existing
instruments like keyboards."
structure was also suitable for an eatery
mentors growing up. But I've learned the
After serving in the U.S. Military,
but needed work to become a proper live
Black man has everything he needs to be
Mr. Arkadie entrenched successful careers
music venue. After procuring the location,
successful. [Nevertheless], patience is one
in I.T., commercial aviation, and healthcare.
Mr. Arkadie set to work with renovations
of the hardest things for the Black man to
patience and an executable plan:
"I didn't have a lot of Black
exercise because so many of us grow up seeking the instant gratification provided by the 'street game.' I recommend they apply their street tenacity and hustle mentality to conquer the business world successfully. That's a 'game' truly worth winning!" -Written By Porsha Stuckey
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Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 129
Contact Information clubtiltgrill.com
finger and soul foods that can be ordered
the owners endeavor to keep it that way.
in or cooked to go. Menu items include
Every kind of entertainment from Karaoke
chicken wings, fried okra, pork chops, deep-
night, amateur comedy, live bands, special
fried zucchini, sea food, and much more.
guest performances, and open mic poetry
Additionally, patrons are sure to relish
is hosted each day of the week, so patrons
their colorful, top shelf, bar famous for the
are sure to find an activity that appeals to
club's signature cocktails, The Tilt, and the
them.
Blue MF.
Yet, many have raved that the
event every day of the week because
atmosphere is Club Tilt's most exceptional
different people like to do different things
attraction. The warm, low, lighting, mixed
on different days. We also try not to put
with old school R&B, comfortable seating,
a cover charge on the front door unless
and the aroma of seasoned cooking wafting
there is a special event or concert. People
through the air, genuinely appeals to souls
also love that we promptly greet them. We
of Black folks. These are the elements that,
say, "Welcome to Club Tilt!" so much, that
when combined, create a culturally familiar
even customers say it to other customers."
ambiance that is rare and refreshing.
Albert & Cheronda Wills Club Tilt & Grill
Club Tilt & GrillSpring's newest
ritzy nightclub with a lounge-type feel. It's located in the shopping plaza at 3744 Astrozon Boulevard, and its popularity is soaring. The gracious and personable owners,
Albert
and
Charonda
Wills,
joined the Colorado community by way of Indianapolis. "Club Tilt" was a dream that the Will's spoke into existence while joking amongst themselves one night:
"We used to sometimes kick it in
"We have a different type of
toward
new favorite hangout, so too do the owner's
operating a sophisticated establishment.
future aspirations. The power couple plans
We're not into the half-naked dress or
to strengthen their social media presence,
drunken conduct. We also have a zero-
expand the size of the club, and further
tolerance policy regarding rude, illicit, and
develop Pattie's menu. To aspiring club
violent behavior of any kind. You only get
owners, Mrs. Wills advises, "Make sure the
one chance, and if you violate our policy,
club business is something you really want
you may never come back. When we say
to do. Get ready to give up a lot of your
zero tolerance, we mean zero tolerance!"
free time. You want to be able to run your
business, not have your business run you."
"We're
more
geared
As Club Tilt spreads as the city’s
There is always something fun
and engaging going on at Club Tilt, and
-Written By Porsha Stuckey
our basement, drink, and chill. We had a little bar, lights, and music set up down there. It was really nice. My little sister came up with the name Club Tilt because every time she left our basement, she'd say she was "tilted." So, we said one day we'd make it come true. Five years later, we opened Club Tilt in the summer of 2019."
Club Tilt features Pattie's Kitchen,
affectionately named for the owners' mothers, both of whom are named Patricia and share a love of cooking. The menu comprises hot and delicious made-to-order Pg. 130 Creative Entrepreneurs
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Enjoy food & friends at local eateries
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
COLORADO SPRINGS AREA Reggae Pot Xpress Jamaican Food reggaepotxpress.com
Club Tilt & Grill soul food clubtiltgrill.com
Jazz Funk Connection soul food & Live Music
Four By Brother luck Gourmet fourbybrotherluck.com
Bonefish Grill Seafood bonefishgrill.com
Billy Sims BBQ billysimsbbq.com
jazzfunkconnection.com
English Dockside Seafood
Lil' howards Barbecue lilhowardsbbq.com
Englishdockside.com
Spice Island Grill jamaican food SpiceIslandGrill.com
Caffeinated Cow
DENVER AREA Buddah’s BBQ & soul food buddahsbbq.com
ice cream 719-308-2769
Pikes Perk Coffee
Welton street cafe (303) 296-6602
coffee cafe pikesperk.com
Luchal Catering gourmet catering
Hungry Wolf Catfish & BBQ hungry-wolf-bbq.com/
(310) 864-0092
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/ArtBiz
Creative Entrepreneurs Pg. 131
MALIAH & MAYA HOWARD | SISTER BALLARINAS
- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
THE
BALLERINA
SISTERS Pages 133-135
Pg. 132 | Music Features
Article by: ipsum dolor si
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Music
Maliah & Maya Howard The Sister Ballerinas
because nobody is telling me what to do; I
my biggest inspiration is Misty Copeland
can just let go.
because she showed the world that women of color could do great things.
How often do you practice & what does
Maya Howard
Young women receive a lot of messages
I train Monday through Thursday
about what beauty is through the media.
for 6 hours each night every week, and I
In your own words, how do you define
also go to conventions and competitions
beauty?
over the weekend. I am a very competitive
person, and so is my team. When we get
everything; beauty is everywhere; beauty
closer to a competition season, we train
isn’t based on looks, but who you are as
harder, we have more rehearsals, and we
a person. When I see confidence, I see
dance for more extended amounts of time.
beauty. When I see self-love, I see beauty.
It is hard work, but it’s all worth it at the
When I see women bringing other women
end of the day.
up, I see beauty. I think I am beautiful, as
came home and did nothing. I didn’t have any passions before dance came along, but once it did, I fell in love with it. Before I started dancing, I was shy, but dance took away my shyness. And now, I can model, act, and dance without being scared to be me. What are your strengths as a dancer? My strongest style of dance is
contemporary. Contemporary is a mix of so many different styles; I can do whatever I want with it. I can choose certain forms that I want to incorporate into my movement, and I just dance. This is my strength
In
my
opinion,
beauty
is
well as everyone else around me.
Before I started dancing, I was
just a normal girl, that went to school, then
practice consist of?
What advice would you give to other
How do you define success & do you see
young dancers trying to excel?
yourself as successful?
That you should never be afraid
I define success as a source of
to be yourself, dance is the perfect way
accomplishment. You don’t have to be a
to show who you are. And also, don’t be
grown woman with all the college degrees
scared to try new things, push yourself.
one could think of that has tons of money and a giant house to be successful. Success
Where do you want to head in the
could be as little as getting a good grade
future?
on a test or getting a new belt in karate.
In the future, I want to be a
It’s the little things that count. You don’t
choreographer and teach at conventions.
have to have it all to be successful. I think
Some of the biggest inspirations are
everyone is successful in some way. The
all of my peers because they all are so
best thing to do is try.
different and talented, and I can improve by watching them be themselves. And
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/dance
Dance Features | Pg. 133
The Maliah Howard
I started dancing when I was four
as a gift for cleaning my room and my sister, and I fell in love with it. I do ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, tap, and ballroom. What do your practices look like?
I practice almost every day. When
I practice, I’m either working on a move I really want to get, or stretching my feet, legs, and back or doing strengthening. I practice in tons of different ways, but I always try to practice something. Practice can be really difficult, but I always feel some type of satisfaction later. When I practice with others, it will be in class. When I practice by myself, I am usually at home with my tools, and I also work out at the gym on Sundays, so I stay fit for dance. What are some things you are proud of in your dance career so far?
I have won at the conventions
mutliple times and I have made top 20 at The Dance Awards. Can you explain what a convention is and what happens there?
A convention is a weekend for
learning from amazing choreographers and growing with other amazing dancers around the country and competing for the winner or a scholarship. What happens is you take a class from a lot of different teachers, then you have an audition for the best dancer of the weekend. You also have competition, and you compete for first place in a category. Pg. 134 | Dance Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/dance
Ballerina Sisters What Are The Dance Awards?
Who are some dancers you look up to?
get everything out. I also look up to Ella
I look up to my sister. I’ve learned
Horan, Bella Klassen, all Break The Floor
for BTF. You have a series of auditions,
so much from her. But she always inspires
teachers, and all of my amazing teachers
including a solo round that you compete
me to dig deeper into my own personality
at my studio, Michelle Latimer Dance
for best dancer or studio of the year.
in dance and in my technique. And to
Academy.
They’re important to me because it gives
always put myself out there even when
you a chance to show your talent and
I’m scared, she also teaches me how to
to tour the next year with the amazing
cook! It definitely has made me a more
faculty.
confident person, and it helps me really
The dance awards are nationals
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/dance
Dance Features | Pg. 135
- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT -
GOLDEN TICKET
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD WINNERS Pages 137-153
Pg. 136 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
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Rafaell Thompson
L7 Premium fragrances
What is your business?
My brand consists of mainly
custom made oil based fragrances, I’ve added hand made Jew and customs paintings and high end glass pendants! What are you excited about in your business?
I’m excited to keep people fresh
world wide, I’d like to keep building my client base I’ve been designing for celebrities and smaller businesses as well! Why Do You Do What You Do?
I do what I do first and foremost
For my kids, it’s critical to be there for them especially growing up with no father it’s important for me use them as motivation to build security. How did you start your business?
I started out as a recording
artist just trying to promote my music and happen to meet some guys that were in the fragrance industry. From there I learned how to create my own fragrance. This was in 2012 est. I then just kept going now I currently have over 50 clients that I customized fragrances for and two store locations one being in Colorado Springs
What are learning in business?
and a kiosk in the Colorado mills mall
save and invest into your own brand.
I’m learning that not everyone
understands business, so i need to make
What values to do live by?
sure i connect with like minded individuals.
capitalize and give back to the community
Set backs will only slow down the process.
is my goal!!!
I’d say just be who you are, Be
Just being able to financially
-Written By Rafaell Thompson
passionate about your product, try to have good intentions with every move you
What advice would you tell your younger
make!, Never limit or doubt yourself, love
self?
unconditionally.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
I would’ve told my younger self to Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 137
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Jamesha La’shon A Taste Of Georgia
Why do you do what you do, how did you start?
I love cooking. When I transferred
from Alaska to Colorado, I wanted to work for myself. It wasn’t easy in the beginning. I didn’t know anything about running a business or being an entrepreneur. I started from the bottom. In the beginning, I made a lot of money, then I made no money, but I didn’t quit. I kept pushing, and I always kept God first and taught myself everything. I didn’t have anyone I could go to ask how it’s done. So I promoted myself daily, I got the clientele and established a following. Do you have a background in cooking?
My mother and both of my
grandmothers are cooks. But what really got me cooking a lot was being in Alaska with my husband. I was not too fond of the [local] food, so I started cooking a lot more and trying new recipes and getting better. I’m from a small country town called Coffee County. It’s located at the bottom of Georgia. I just knew I wanted to cook things that represent me and from where I’m from. What are you learning this in the season of your business?
I’m learning that every customer
thinks they’re right. You have to stand up for your business, be firm with your prices, but at the same time, take constructive criticism. But never let people bully you into going down on your costs. You always have to promote, even if you have to get out on hand and foot. Getting the word out there never stops.
Pg. 138 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
“Colorado Springs will always be home for A Taste of Georgia because its where my company was founded.” What is some advice you’d give to your
What are you excited about now?
younger self?
Stop believing everyone is your
clients. I get excited every time I’m cooking,
friend. I have stopped trying to get
and I have a whole lot of new clientele. In
everyone to see life the way I see it. There
2020 I plan to open my first storefront in
are so many people who are content
Georgia. Colorado Springs will always be
working a 9 to 5. I’m an entrepreneur. So I
home for A Taste of Georgia because its
would tell my younger self, you can’t make
where my company was founded.
everyone an entrepreneur. It’s okay to lose
I’m always excited about new
-Written By Brandon Brones
people on the way. Everybody can’t go to the top with you. I learned that trying to help everybody sometimes ends up hurting myself in the end. So I would tell my younger self, do what you can for people, but don’t hurt your business trying to help them.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 139
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Bruce Simon
Owner Of A Head Of Class Barbershop Why do you think your customers like
community. We were a part of a
coming to your shop?
to school event where we cut over 300
We are professional and provide
children’s hair for free and pass out a
a great service. We always try to provide
lot of school supplies. We also do the
a client with the best customer service
Thanksgiving
experience that they can receive.
dinner at our shop.
We
customer
back
appreciation
We give people a
actually have relationships with our clients
chance to relax, enjoy each other and have
so that they feel comfortable to come back
a good time.
or tell someone about us.. The atmosphere is welcoming. We’re a family oriented
What is an important quality you look
Barbershop that has women and children
for in employees
come in also
As far as customer service, being
able to hold a conversation with their client What do you do to impact your local
and being professional.
community
We do a lot of things within the
Pg. 140 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Contact Information xpressionsbeautystudio.com
Charonda Wills
Lyza Ingram
Owner of Xpressions Beauty Studio
With over 20 years of experience
Owner of Xpressions Beauty Studio
An experienced business owner
in the beauty industry and 10 years spent
and investor, Charonda Wills directs the
owning a salon, passion and talent are
behind the scenes magic at Xpressions
not a question when it comes to Lyza
Beauty & Barber Studio. With other local
Ingram. Specializing in a wide variety
companies including Club Tilt Grill, a
of services, Lyza is prepared to utilize
Real Estate venture, and a Construction
skill and hard to come by technique
company, Charonda is reachable for
to
business!
accelerate
your
beauty
journey
Other Xpressions Beauty Studio Service Providers
Ms. Nikki
Jay-Z
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Maisha
D’Lacia
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 141
Contact Information firmaitss.com
Rodney Gullatte Jr.
Cybersecurity Professional
As a leading expert in Managed
IT Services and Cybersecurity for business, Firma IT Solutions offers a comprehensive solution to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of your business data. With operations in Key West, FL and Colorado Springs, CO, we are able to create jobs and provide opportunities to the new cyber workforce to better protect local businesses and consumer data.
Firma IT Solutions was started
by community leader and US Air Force Veteran, Rodney Gullatte, Jr. With a background in Information Technology and Cybersecurity that includes Department of Defense, retail, healthcare, casinos, utility
companies
and
more,
Rodney
has developed a company that brings enterprise technology solutions to small businesses. Law firms, accounting firms, architect firms, museums, and marinas are just a few of the clients that Firma IT
Solutions
has
transformed.
From
workstations and servers to cybersecurity and enterprise wireless networks, Firma IT Solutions has a wide scope of services to create data integrity and system security that all small businesses desperately need.
Pg. 142 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
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Contact Information reginaspeaking.com
Regina Lewis
College Professor What got you into education and why do you do it?
As far as what got me into
education, it was all by accident. I had no idea that I would ever teach. I got my associates in General Studies. And then I did a combination degree in Psychology and in Communication and I was in a classroom and we had to present a project. A 10-minute presentation.
Afterwards I
got a standing ovation which I thought was strange. A couple weeks later, I got a phone call from Pikes Peak Community College, even before I finished my degree, asking me if I wanted to teach. I didn’t think they paid enough money, so I talked to my mother about it and she said, “well how much money are you making now, honey?” I said “none”. She said “then take the job”.
It was all by accident that I went
into teaching, but once I got there, I found out that many of the students carry the same story that I had, struggling through education, fearful of Education because of not knowing people who have gone before you and not knowing the hidden rules and behaviors. So this is when I felt like this is where my heart is. I love the Community College because it’s a place where all types of people come. I like to spark the genius of our students. - Written By Brandon Bornes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 143
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Terra Smith Real Estate
do if they want to buy a home?
operate, and I can almost tell the client
Springs. I help people who don’t necessarily
like clockwork what’s going to happen
know that they can purchase a home. I
if you’re thinking about buying a home
work with anyone, but I like to focus on
is get in touch with a realtor. We have a
people whose rent is about the same
team of lenders and vendors that we can
What advice would you give your
amount as a monthly mortgage payment. I
put you touch with, while you’re making
younger self?
focus on educating them to make sure that
your transaction. And to be honest with
they’re able to make informed decisions.
you, if you’re working with an agent who
you can because there is a lot of wealth
More often than not, I turn renters into
already has those referrals, this means
and benefits for your family economically,
buyers. In the long run, they’re going to
they also have a relationship with them.
financially, and emotionally.
save a lot of money and generate wealth.
So the likelihood of successfully closing on
It’s not just about you owning a home; It’s
a home is much higher than if you found
about building for your family.
a separate agent and lender who don’t
What is the first thing someone should
know each other. I know how my lenders
I am a realtor here in Colorado
The first thing you should do
Pg. 144 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
when they work together.
Get into real estate as soon as
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
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Jenna Kempton
Owner, House of Hounds Grooming Why you do what you do?
that I could do more low volume quality
desk representative at the first place that
I’ve been grooming dogs for
work. So I could give the dogs the time
I groomed at, and one of the groomers just
about seven years. I started at a place
they needed, especially if they’re nervous
quit on Christmas Eve during the holiday
that was pretty similar to PetSmart. It was
or have special needs.
rush. They needed someone to step in,
vast and corporate, and they wanted us to
so they kind of threw me in, and I got to
groom a ridiculous amount of dogs every
What got you into work with animals?
get on the job training. I just stuck with it
day, which didn’t really give anybody
because I really liked doing it.
time to be compassionate or creative. So
the house, and I was always bringing stray
I decided to go into business for myself so
animals home. I started working as a front
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
I grew up always with a dog in
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 145
Contact Information amcmbirth.com
Demetra Seriki
A Mothers Choice | Midwifery Tell us a little bit about yourself and
do a career change. I started going to
makes women vulnerable. I made a
how you became a midwife?
school and clinical training to become
decision that here, in my city, I will do
a midwife. I am a certified professional
all that I can to help. I strive to make
I was also
Midwife. I attend births that are done
a difference not only in the birthing
a teenage mom. I was 16 when I had
at home or the hospital and walk
process but also working hand in hand
my first child. I loved being around
alongside the families. These families
with different agencies to decrease
babies and would take opportunities to
are looking for somebody who is a good
black infant mortality.
be with my friends at their child’s birth,
listener, who will spend time with them
for support. Fast forward 15 years later,
and can clearly articulate the common
I still had a passion for being around
terms of the risks and benefits of the
young, soon to be mothers. I decided to
choices they are making. Giving birth
I was born and raised right
here in Colorado Springs.
Pg. 146 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
"Know your rights as a pregnant woman and have someone who will advocate for you." What are the top five things women
women dont express their concerns to their
communicate efficiently or think clearly.
should focus on during pregnancy?
providers for fear of being judged. Another
fear is not being heard. It’s insane, but it’s
health worker. This is why they are here.
comfortable with and is sensitive to your
also a hard truth we deal with.
There is a handful of us in El Paso County,
needs. It's essential that your voice is heard,
It’s essential that women recognize
including workers of color. With finding a
and that your medical provider connects
some of their habits need to change. Small
community health worker, they can help
with you. We have some providers that still
modifications in lifestyle could ultimately
you navigate the system; believe me, it
believe that black women's pain tolerance
save their baby’s life, including their own.
is a system. The system is structurally
is higher. Those doctors might not be so
oppressive.
quick to give us pain medication during
woman and have someone who will
the first stage of labor. It’s barbaric when
advocate for you. Plan ahead because
you think about it.
once you are in active labor, the right and
Express your concerns. One of the
left side of the brain don’t communicate
biggest worries documented is pregnant
well. It becomes increasingly difficult to
Find a provider that you are
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Know your rights as a pregnant
Find
you
a
community-based
-Written By Brandon Bornes
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 147
Contact Information truespiritbaptistchurch.com
Anthony Grier | Pastor True Spirit Baptist Church
My name is Reverend Anthony
Greer. I am from Rockford, Illinois. Im the new pastor of true Spirit Baptist Church. I’ve been here since November 2018. At the true Spirit Baptist Church, we embrace God’s word and we try to equip the Saints with scripture and Empower them through the word of God. The Church been existing since for 25 years now What are some things that you’ve been excited about?
Embracing the new faces, the
multi-cultural atmosphere and the people’s desire to worship and learn and being excited about the teachings and seeing lives changed.
watching families grow,
families join and seeing a lot of young men coming to the family, joining the church What do you think the church needs
discussion and seek to understand each
Where you’re headed with this church?
to speak up more when it comes to our
other. We can agree to disagree, but we
culture?
still need to focus on trying to establish
One of the things, we’re trying
One is same-sex civil unions.
what is right. As Christians, we learn to
surrounding churches of all denominations.
That is one of the main issues that the
love one another and not judge, but we still
The other thing is being a true resource for
church needs to speak up about and have
need to teach what the Bible says about
the community and continuing to educate
discussions with a respectful dialogue.
same sex unions. We teach, we love them
people with the Bible and strengthening
Another issue we need to speak up about
and let the word do the rest.
the minds of the people.
and stand for is equality.
to
rebuild
is
relationships
with
the
We’re a church that that seeks
What do you think the people need to
How do you think the church can help
the betterment of our community and the
hear right now?
with the facilitation of marriage and
advancement of Christ.
equality?
What they need to hear now is
that God loves them despite whatever
We can be quick to listen and
it is that they’re going through, most
slow to speak. Be willing to talk and have
importantly, God could use them to help
open dialogue. The Bible tells us to reason
others. God has entrusted special gifts to
together with fellow believers. That means
all of us so that we could bless others.
that we need to sit down and have a
Pg. 148 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
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Tivoni Brundage Artist | Painter
What do you do and why you do it?
My passion is art. I’ve been an
artist since I was seven, which is when I started drawing. I’m currently active duty in the Army, but I’m getting out to pursue my passion. I do it because, in a way, art has a kind of healing aspect. My goal is to make a bunch of Black art that caters to people of diverse cities and basically to create amazing Renaissance art. I want to make art that’s Black so that people like me can see themselves in the artwork. What do you mean when you say you paint to heal?
The series I’m currently working
on tells a story about things that bother me, have affected me, or have otherwise contributed to who I am. When I put these things out there, I realize other people can relate to it in a way they didn’t think of before. It helps them heal because they get to see their thoughts and feelings validated in the work I produce. My art is not just art; it’s an experience. It’s something that I get to really dive into. By the end, it tells a story or has a song that goes with it.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 149
Contact Information aeonikthreads.com
in the right direction. Collaboration is a significant value. What are you learning as you're doing business?
Don't be afraid to jump, I mean
never. The opportunities are going to come and go, but there's never going to be a perfect time. So if you have an idea, if you have thoughts, write them down and go through with them. Don't hesitate. Don't hold your ideas in your head. If you have a good idea and you tell some people about it, they may be able to help you with either getting started or putting you in places to be successful. What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be more confident. I don't have a
college degree, so when it came to working for someone else, I didn't always put my best foot forward. I never thought that I
Nate Sheppard
would be in those positions. I understand
Aeonik Threads
now that I can be an asset to whatever
What is your brand about?
I was in a car accident in 2016. I got out
Our clothing brand is designed to
of that accident, pretty much unscathed.
inspire. We've committed to making clothes
I told myself, you only live once. And I
to inspire and encourage people forever.
started a clothing brand. I just jumped on
That's my motto, no matter what you know,
it and ran with it. No more being afraid.
your story is your story. So be proud and
What is an important value you have in
tell it.
business?
I was always taught not to
How did you get started?
compete but collaborate more. There are
I had an idea of starting a
so many other clothing brands out there.
clothing brand years ago when I graduated
It's always good practice to try to work with
high school back in 1999, but life happened.
people who are willing to help you head
Pg. 150 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
company that employs me. Where do you see your business heading?
I currently have everything on
online websites, and an e-commerce peso business, but eventually, I want to diversify by getting into outlet markets, local stores, boutiques, or even having my own little kiosk would be great. -Written By Brandon Bornes
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Contact Information santiagosboxingclub719.
Jose Santiago Founder
It was through his love of boxing
that his passion for children was solidified. Colorado State Golden Gloves Hall of Fame Coach Jose Santiago was the founder of Santiago’s Boxing Club (SBC). SBC was established in January 2016, but the heart of it was established decades prior. Jose was a prolific coach with over 40 years of coaching and officiating experience. He groomed many young individuals into National and World Champions, to include the
first
female
National
Champion.
His ferocity and unmatched intensity in coaching allowed him to train boxing teams that would be feared whenever they stepped foot into the building. Such as the widely known “Body Snatchers” that made their presence known Nationally and Internationally to the likes of Andrew Maynard, Riddick Bowe, Shannon Briggs, etc. With over 40 years of coaching and officiating invested, Jose helped thousands of youth in the community
Coach Jose passed away February
25, 2019 and since that time, the coaches of SBC, have committed to strengthening its presence in the community. - Written By Jerome Penrose
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 151
Contact Information aaylc-co.org
On January 16, 1993, the first
to include females in grades 6 – 12. At
and has given over $140,000 in student
Leadership
that time, Colorado College became the
scholarships. The AAYLC has a sustained
Conference (AAYLC) was held at the
first major partner of the Conference by
and rich history that instills high standards
Hillside
Colorado
providing both funding and its facilities.
and positive moral values in our youth.
Springs. It was sponsored by the Alpha Phi
Colorado College, notably, has remained
Alpha Fraternity, INC.
as a major partner since 1994. The AAYLC
​The AAYLC was limited to young African
is now host to approximately 600 students
American males in grades 6 - 12 and was
of all ethnicities annually in March on the
presented from a male minority point of
campus of Colorado College.
view. The AAYLC was the first of its kind
in Colorado Springs and the focus was
development and community outreach
on: social problems affecting black youth,
focus, the AAYLC has grown in magnitude
the importance of an education along
since its inception and serves as a program
with various educational programs and
supported by corporate, civic, academic,
initiatives and the examination of Black
religious, fraternal, social organizations
History. There were approximately 175
and individuals in the community. It is
male students in attendance.
totally organized and implemented by
This AAYLC was so successful
community volunteers. To date, the AAYLC
and well received by the community that
has hosted over 13,000 students in the
is was expanded the following year, 1994,
Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Denver area
African
American Community
Youth Center,
Because
Pg. 152 Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners
of
the
educational
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
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Testimonial
Testimonial
Shantell Nix
Executive Director of AAYLC
The
Leadership
African
American
Ashley McNeely
Zakarayah Scruggs
Student Attendee at AAYLC
Conference Volunteer of AAYLC
“The moment that you see all of
“My name is Zakaryah Scruggs,
(AAYLC)
the students you are suddenly hit with a
I am 17 years old and in my senior year
continues to embark on an amazing
realization of the importance of this event.
of high school approaching my very last
journey to uphold our purpose of providing
There are students from all walks of life
African
and supporting educational, personal and
but they all have one thing in common;
Conference prior to leaving the state to
leadership development for youth. This
they want to learn.
attend college. This will be my third year.
year’s conference theme, 2020 VISION
#SeeBeyondNow, is especially important
choice to attend this conference because
the AAYLC is the environment of black
to me. It is crucial for students to see past
they want to grow and they want to
excellence that is created when intelligent
the here and now of today and focus on
succeed further than anyone can imagine.
young black men and women come together
their vision of tomorrow.
In one moment all of that hits you and it
for the greater good of our community.
Personally, after over 15 years
makes you proud to be part of such an
of involvement with the AAYLC; from
amazing event. It also strengthens your
is not very often that I see other people
being a parent bringing my own children,
resolve to fight for these young people.”
that look like me and share the same trials
an
educator
Conference
Youth
Testimonial
accompanying
students,
These students have made the
American
Youth
Leadership
My favorite part about attending
Living in Colorado Springs, it
and tribulations that come with living in
a volunteer ushering students, to now
America.
have the privilege of being the Executive
Director of the organization, I can honestly
I’d say I've learned from AAYLC is that
say we are in our greatest season and I am
I shouldn't limit myself or my abilities to
honored to be a part this legacy supporting
what other people expect of me. As an
the current and future youth leaders in the
underclassman in high school, I didn't really
Pikes Peak Region.
know what I wanted to do. AAYLC taught
The most valuable thing that
me that I am greater than my expectations and that I am capable of what I set my mind to and accomplish. I speak on behalf Read Full Testimonial At MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
of my ancestors by saying that Black IS power!
Read Full Testimonial At MyBlackColorado.com/Winners
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Golden Ticket | Peoples Choice Award Winners Pg. 153
Contact Information csu.org
- BUSINESS FEATURES -
DIVERSITY
OF PERSPECTIVES Pages 154 - 165
At Colorado Springs Utilities, it’s
That’s why diversity and inclusion are
a privilege to contribute to the vitality and
central to our work.
quality of life in the Pikes Peak Region.
The utilities industry is changing
Diversity Team plays a vital role in
rapidly. To stay ahead, we’re leveraging
ensuring we maintain an inclusive culture
technology, along with staff thinking
to facilitate leadership and employee
and experience, to meet our customers’
engagement.
evolving needs.
Serving a population of nearly
employees from across the organization
450,000, the community-owned utility
- encourages every employee to embrace
provides electricity, natural gas, water and
the unique skills and differences of our
wastewater services.
workforce.
A not-for-profit enterprise of the
Formed in 1996, our DELTA
This
team
-
composed
of
We also develop and sustain
city, we focus on providing exceptional
relationships
service at the lowest rates possible. Our
capable of providing products and services
customers are at the center of everything
at competitive prices. These relationships
we do.
help to strengthen the economy and
Inherent to our mission is a strong
increase
with
business
commitment to community. We actively
everyone.
support local economic development and
civic projects. In addition, our employees
future.
to help others We
strive
to
reflect
suppliers
opportunities
for
Together, we will shape a bright
generously volunteer their time and talents
diverse
the
Aram Benyamin
Chief Executive Officer
increasingly diverse community we serve.
Pg. 154 | Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Contact Information csu.org
Jasmine Pierson
Operations Controller
I am a water operations controller
at Colorado Springs Utilities. I have worked here for seven years. I operate our water distribution, raw water, nonpotable and wastewater systems through our
Supervisory
Control
And
Data
Acquisition system—otherwise known as SCADA. This is a computer system that monitors and controls our equipment and technology in the field. Part of my
responsibilities
include
forecasting
day to day water usage and keeping the water system operating efficiently to deliver water safely and reliably.
Diversity of thought is valuable to
Colorado Springs Utilities because it allows our company to be innovative and forwardthinking. Since we are such a diverse company it allows different perspectives on ideas and unique insight into problems. Springs Utilities is an inclusive employer because we value all individuals, which is a key aspect to how we are all connected.
My favorite part about working at
Colorado Springs Utilities is knowing how vital our impact is to this community, and how hard we all work to bring our customers the best services. I also love working at Springs Utilities because there are unlimited opportunities to succeed and so many resources to help you reach your goals.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities | Pg. 155
Contact Information csu.org
Andrew Johnson
Workforce Development Specialist
I was first hired as a Utility Worker 1
in 2009 for Wastewater Collections. Within a year I was promoted into the Wastewater Collections apprenticeship program where I became a Master Journeyman. In 2016 I was promoted to my current role with the University of Springs Utilities as a Workforce Development Specialist. I help make sure our employees are properly trained and able to perform the tasks necessary to keep the city running. The training we provided is not only mandatory, but it’s necessary to bring mothers and fathers home safely to their families.
Colorado Springs Utilities has
given me an opportunity to better myself and grow into a career field I can be proud of. I was a construction worker who worked his way up from the bottom. The leadership in this company embraced, encouraged and challenged me to be more. My favorite part about working here is the people. I love to get out and network and meet new people. Colorado Springs Utilities has made me feel important and valued.
Diversity of thought is not only
valuable to Colorado Springs Utilities, but to every organization in the country. Without
diversity
of
thought
and
experience we shackle ourselves to a Univision workforce unable to progress and compete in a society becoming more diverse every second. Although Springs Utilities is not at the finish line, our veterans’ programs, disabilities programs, diversity programs and our work in the community shows we are on the right track.
Pg. 156 | Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Contact Information csu.org
Michelle Willis-Hill
Environmental Specialist For the last 17 years, I have been working as an Environmental Specialist in the Environmental Services Division at
Colorado
Springs
Utilities.
responsibilities
include
environmental
compliance
audits
of
our
My
facilities,
operations and off-site waste disposal sites, management of hazardous materials and wastes, training on environmental regulations,
performing
environmental
assessments of real property transactions, and providing technical guidance on projects
to
ensure
compliance
with
environmental regulations in support of our environmental stewardship initiatives.
When diversity of thought is
absent, the tunnel vision of like-mindedness becomes
perilous
creativity.
Our
to
best
innovation is
and
demonstrated
when we embrace and harness the ideas, viewpoints and perspectives of people from various ages, experiences, and backgrounds as an essential component of the way we must do business to stay relevant not only today, but also as we prepare for the future. Diversity of thought is also a strategy for
the larger community include participation
which Springs Utilities positions itself in
on the Harrison School District Two’s
the community as an inclusive employer
Bond Construction Oversight Committee
by attracting, developing and retaining
to provide input on construction capital
a skilled and diverse workforce that is
projects; serving as a Peak Education
representative of the community we serve.
mentor to high school seniors to assist
them through successful navigation of the
My
ongoing
efforts
to
help
college funding process; and contributing as a Very Involved Parent on Positive Behavior
Interventions
and
Supports
(PBIS) initiatives at Harrison High School.
Colorado Springs Utilities be more relevant in Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities | Pg. 157
Contact Information csu.org
Ebony De La Torre Business Application Administrator
I
have
worked
for
Colorado
Springs Utilities for 3½ years as a Business
Application
Administrator
II.
My primary responsibility is the phone system and support of our Customer Contact Handling Platform used by our Customer Services Division. This includes 65 phone numbers including the main phone
number,
outbound
campaigns,
and chat customer channels of choice.
One of the values that our
organization is centered on is “People.” Through
leveraging
the
different
perspectives, strengths and point of views from a diverse workforce, we make better decisions in support of those we serve. We are a community-owned, four service utility, so our customers also are our citizen owners. That’s why it’s so important that we value continuous improvement and being able to identify ways to better deliver against
our
customers’
expectations.
I plan on continuing to share
my skillset, experience, and learnings from
a
technology-centric
customer
experience background to identify ways we can continue to improve best practices. Helping to translate customer wants into technological
requirements,
onboard
and support the platforms identified to meet those needs will be crucial as our rate payer base continues to grow. My favorite part about working for Colorado Springs Utilities is being able to help our community members. It is important to know that I have an impact on the lives of others with the work that I do. Knowing that my contributions add value and support our organization being viewed as a community asset plays a big part in my professional fulfillment. Pg. 158 | Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Contact Information csu.org
Stephen Chandler
North District Energy Supply Maintenance Superintendent As
a
15-year
employee
of
Colorado
Springs Utilities, currently I’m the North District
Energy
Supply
Maintenance
Superintendent. My responsibilities include oversight
of
maintenance
activities,
budgeting and the continuous improvement of plant maintenance practices for all North District Energy Supply Assets.
The Energy Supply Maintenance
Department is comprised of individuals from
very
diverse
backgrounds
and
experiences. This diversity leads to creative problem-solving, resulting in improved work processes and procedures. Throughout my career, I have attempted to maintain a focus on team cohesion. This stems from the belief that a strong team gives all members a voice and differences of opinion do not discourage outside-the-box thinking.
My personal experience is an
example of how Springs Utilities is an inclusive employer. Entering the workforce after college, I quickly began to question my career path. I missed working with my hands and the satisfaction it brought. After several years of trying to find my way in the office environment, I decided to seek out career alternatives. Through employment research and a few chance meetings with Springs Utilities employees, I was convinced Springs Utilities was the organization I wanted to be part of.
They spoke of an environment that
apprenticeship programs and a personal
was open to internal mobility. Having no
commitment to continuous improvement,
power generation experience at the time,
I’m now in a position where I’m able to
fifteen years ago I was offered an entry-
provide similar opportunities for others.
level position within the Energy Supply Department. Through the strength of the
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Diversity of Perspectives | Colorado Springs Utilities | Pg. 159
Contact Information troweprice.com
Jacob Pruitt
Vice President & General Manager What is your role within T. Rowe Price?
As vice president and general
manager, I’m responsible for executing T. Rowe Price’s local strategy, including brand awareness, growth strategy, corporate sponsorships, facilities
grant
management,
administration, and
local
government relations for our nearly 1,000 associates in Colorado Springs.
We focus our efforts on a multi-
year strategy to make sure that the environment we’re building today will be sustainable and relevant for associates in the future. As we identify new trends, we monitor them and their meaning with the view of developing data-driven roadmaps to achieve success in an ever-evolving workplace. How did you get into the financial services industry?
This is my sixth year with T. Rowe
Price, and prior to this, I held several executive-level positions at leading asset management firms in the industry. In total, I’ve been in financial services for more than twenty years.
I received my formal education
from Tennessee State University and Stanford University. While in college, I served in the US Marine Corps and was deployed to Kuwait for Desert Storm and Desert Shield. Upon the completion of
my undergraduate degree, I was given a
What do you think the keys to success
chance to join an investment firm in New
are?
York City, called Bankers Trust Company, as
part of a management training program.
keys to success is ensuring that you are
That’s where I obtained foundational skills
“always prepared and ready” to take on
within the financial services industry. The
a new challenge. Being the youngest of 13
military and the corporate world honed my
children, I was taught by my parents that
leadership skills and gave me many unique
education was the key to success and will
opportunities to lead people and projects
prepare you for any challenge life places
early in my career.
in front of you.
Pg. 160 | Diversity of Perspectives | Trowe Price
I think that one of the primary
Over the years, many people
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Contact Information troweprice.com
have opened doors for me and assisted
you have and ensure your voice is heard
decided on an issue, I move forward and
me in advancing my career. The consistent
in making a positive impact within your
don’t look back. You can’t be afraid to
question that I was asked was, “Are you
organization and community. To those
take a risk or make big decisions as these
willing to step out of your comfort zone and
whom much is given, much is expected!
propel you forward in your career.
seize the moment?” I have always prided
So, it is imperative that you are reaching
myself on being prepared and willing to
back and developing the next generation
How do you handle conflict?
take on new challenges in my career.
of leaders for your organizations and the
world.
there should be a healthy amount of
Building
strong
relationships
In any business or organization,
throughout my career has yielded solid
returns in my professional and personal
going at it alone. It takes a village, wise
viewpoints to avoid watered-down decision
life. The reason I joined T. Rowe Price
counsel, and God’s grace to make it. My
making. If everybody thinks the same way,
and moved to Colorado Springs was
approach has always been to establish
you will get mediocre outcomes to complex
due to a friend and colleague of mine
a board of directors around me to help
business issues. As a leader, you have to
recommending me as a candidate for the
guide me in my career and key personal
understand that sometimes you may be
job. I think my natural ability to identify
decisions. My board is composed of good
the one causing the conflict. So, you must
and connect with people has been key to
friends, colleagues, and family who I
be vulnerable enough to say, “Well, I heard
my success.
trust and respect. When a tough decision
all the feedback. It’s not the group; it’s me.”
As a person of color in Corporate
is required, I reach out to them and say,
Then you have to be willing to adjust your
America, there are minimal opportunities
“Hey, here’s what I’ve got going on. Tell
style to bring about the resolution...
to get a seat at the table, so it’s essential
me your thoughts or best advice.” I weigh
to make the most of your seat at the table.
their opinions and then make an informed
Make sure you leverage the power that
decision. As a matter of principle, having
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Lastly, no one achieves success by
debate.
It’s
critical
to
have
varying
Read Full Interview At MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Diversity of Perspectives | Trowe Price | Pg. 161
Contact Information troweprice.com
Tekarah Harding
Personal Investor Acquisition Manager What do you do?
I
am
a
Personal
Investors
Acquisition Manager in Client Engagement. I primarily manage a team of associates whose sole purpose is to share information about
T.
Rowe
Price’s
products
and
services with prospects and hopefully earn additional business for the firm. What do you love about your job?
The art of sales is something
that has always fascinated me, and I have always been a natural born leader, so I love that I have the opportunity to combine both of my passions. Also, I really love when I am able to help an associate be better in their role and achieve their career aspirations. I feel energized and even more motivated when I can be a part of someone else’s success story. What’s the biggest positive lesson you’ve learned in your career field?
I believe the biggest lesson I’ve
learned so far is to really understand, know, and stay fully committed to my values, who I am as a person, who I am as a leader, and to own my story. Sometimes when you are trying to climb up and make moves in your career, it is easy to lose sight of who you are because you are trying to conform to what the norm or culture is for an individual that is a key decision maker. I’ve learned that regardless of where I am aspiring to go that I need to stay grounded and committed to my values, and to always share make sure that I share my story.
Pg. 162 | Diversity of Perspectives | Trowe Price
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Contact Information troweprice.com
What do you do?
I am currently a Lead Manager in
our Client Engagement Workplace group. My teams are responsible for partnering with our retirement plan participants as they leave their employers and, in some cases, enter retirement. This is a critical stage of the retirement planning process as clients must decide what to what to do with their former employer sponsored retirement plan. What do you love about your job?
My favorite part of the job
is getting to help coach and develop people and watch them improve.
I’ve
been in different people leadership roles since 2007, and there is always a new challenge since every individual has a unique
background,
perspective,
and
goals. Being able to develop relationships built on trust and provide clear and direct feedback are crucial to helping people overcome their deficiencies and advance in their careers.
Whether personally or
professionally, it’s rare to find people in our lives who are willing to provide us unbiased critical feedback. Being able to do this for someone and watch them grow has been one of them most rewarding parts of my career. What’s the biggest positive lesson you’ve learned in your career field?
Learning
never
ends.
The
financial industry, like many others, has been experiencing ever increasing change. Whether it be going back to get my MBA, taking on stretch assignments, or pursuing professional licenses and designations, ongoing learning has been crucial to progressing in my career.
Remaining
flexible and seeking out new opportunities for growth is now an intentional focus for
Charles Johnson Lead Manager Client Engagement Workplace Group
me. Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Diversity of Perspectives | Trowe Price | Pg. 163
Contact Information troweprice.com
From
a
skillset
standpoint,
being able to connect with people and build relationships. When I walk into a boardroom, one of the first things that our Prospects or clients ask themselves is, “is this someone that I can work with, that’s likeable?”. It’s really important in my field to be able to connect and build relationships. You also have to be knowledgeable about your product and the finance industry so you are able to effectively communicate the benefits as to why a client might want to use the services we offer. Presentation skills are also important to have. A lot of people in general, get a little frightenedm, or scared when they’re asked to get up in front of a group and present on the topic. It took time for me to craft my presentation and become comfortable in my delivery. Can you talk more about the value of building relationships?
There’s not too many African
Americans, in a lot of the boardrooms that
Stanley Gbandawa Client Acquisition
I’m
a
pre-implementation
manager with T Rowe Price. I’m responsible for assisting our sales team with presenting our service offering to institutional clients ranging in assets anywhere from 25 million on upwards two to three billion dollars in assets. Tell me a little bit how you got to where you are today? I have been with TRowe Price
for over 17 years. I started out as a data entry processor right out of college. I was referred to T Rowe Price through a friend that said it would be a good company to
Over the years, I continued to
that looks like me.
Being able to build
progress through the organization, got
relationships with people from various
into management and leadership positions
backgrounds,
and then that opened the door for other
statuses and understand where people are
opportunities and different departments in
coming from in general, has really helped
the organization.
me excel in my career.
What do you find exciting about what
Why is having a diversity of perspectives
you do?
important?
I’m in. 90% of the time, there’s no one else start at.
It’s the people, interacting with
various
socio-economic
I think that’s important, especially
my clients and helping them prepare for
today, in this climate that we’re in, you
retirement. I get to travel and work with
need to have a diverse team. I think
clients from Atlanta, Georgia to San Diego,
it helps an organization make better
California.
decisions because your accounting for the various types of clients that you may be
What are the skills that you feel are important to have in your current job
addressing. -Written By Brandon Bornes
role?
Pg. 164 | Diversity of Perspectives | Trowe Price
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Contact Information troweprice.com
What do you do?
I’m a Technical Analyst (TA) in
our Retirement Plan Services department – focusing specifically on nonqualified plans. As a TA, I am responsible for processing a variety of client requests, managing online enrollment processes for several plans, and periodically reviewing policies, procedures, and training materials to ensure we are operating efficiently and in compliance with all IRS regulations. What do you love about your job?
I like the sense of community on
our team.
As a hybrid team comprised
of members in varying roles and located in two sites, we do a great job of building camaraderie and banding together to take care of our clients. I also like that there are continual opportunities to learn different aspects of my job. What’s the biggest positive lesson you’ve learned in your career field?
I’ve
learned
that
a
formal
education may open doors to opportunities; but a zest for lifelong learning and, more importantly, recognizing the need to connect with people from various backgrounds will give one the courage to walk through those doors.
I’ve also learned that it’s ok for
one’s career to appear more like a “jungle gym than a ladder.” As one who started out as an individual contributor, had a brief stint as an acting supervisor, and then moved back to individual contributor roles, I was tempted to think that I’d “gone backwards in my career.” However, I had to realize that I can lead from a cubicle as well as I can from an office. If I’m moving the business forward while encouraging and helping others to do the same, I’m
Stephane Wallace Technical Analyst Retirement Plan Services Department
leading.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/Perspectives
Diversity of Perspectives | Trowe Price | Pg. 165
Contact Information blackindenver.com
BLACK IN DENVER
BY JASMINE NARKITA GOLD
Pg. 166 | Black In Denver
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Michael Hancock Denver Mayor
To be black in Denver and black
as a people have seen worse and we have
anywhere is to recognize the power of our
to persevere through it, I have to perse-
history and the greatness from which we
vere through it. If my ancestors can come
come. As the Mayor of Denver, that’s al-
through what they endured, I can certain-
ways remained at the forefront. When
ly meet the challenges that I have here,
things get difficult, I remind myself that we
which don’t even compare.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Black In Denver | Pg. 167
Contact Information blackindenver.com
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Erica Cobb
Television Host & Comeback Kid
When I moved to Denver from
landscape. I feel today being black in
Chicago a decade ago to host a morning
Denver means helping to carve out a
radio show, being black in Denver meant
narrative of inclusivity and representation,
being a prominent voice in a minority
so we have our piece of the history pie
position. Today, I continue to strive to find
during this Great Denver Migration.
a unique way to be a voice and a face of representation in an ever-changing Pg. 168 | Black In Denver
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Keyonna & John
Co-Owners, Lawrence & Larimer Keyonna | For me, being black
themselves. Unapologetic. Free. For me, it
in Denver is about building and sharing
was permission to go off into this world
the city’s history while creating new
and be the best version of myself. They
experiences and memories. It’s about
were my black in Denver experience and
sharing our journey as entrepreneurs with
where I first witnessed #blackgirlmagic.
our community to push the culture forward. As the co-owner of Lawrence
John | As a kid, I’d invite my peers
& Larimer, being black in Denver is also
home after school to play or for a party –
about educating the world through style,
parents unaware – so I’ve always enjoyed
which I attribute to my family circle, which
connecting with people. For me, being
is full of strong, beautiful, and talented
black in Denver is about taking advantage
black women from Denver. To see them
of the opportunities this city has to offer
together was an event itself. Not only did
and building a community of people of all
they dress to the nines – big hats, fancy
races who can support one another in their
shoes, swag rags – but they also had a
endeavors.
poise about them. They were cultured. Full of love. Laughter. Life. Naturally living in Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Black In Denver | Pg. 169
Contact Information blackindenver.com
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Briana
Doula & Founding Director, Unearthing Tradition
Black and woman. Black and
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Curt
Owner, Smith & Canon Ice Cream
I can only be black like me, so I
queer. Black and educated. Black and
can’t be black like anybody else. I didn’t
doula. Black and creative. Black and…
realize I’d only been black like me until
To me, being black in Denver means to
I became an adult. For me, being black
be positioned where all parts of your
comes with all of its beauty, depth, history,
blackness can receive affirmation. Don’t
and context, and I’ve always been acutely
get me wrong – it doesn’t happen without
aware of that wherever I’ve been. The only
challenges, but I’ve always won this tug of
difference in being black in Denver as
war. For me, Denver is a place that has
opposed to being black anywhere to me is
offered me the chance to become the most
that I get to be black like me in the most
beautiful version of myself. Black and all
beautiful place in the world.
that I am.
Pg. 170 | Black In Denver
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Asia
Founder, five points fermentation
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Alan
Graphic Novelist & Comic Writer
What To be black in Denver is to
be a mermaid living in the mountains. I am a being who has adapted to breathing without oxygen. I can find a home in the dark depths of the ocean and at the top of Pikes Peak. Being black in Denver is holding down my own frequency, no matter the temperature, pressure, and atmosphere. It’s sending out my light beam and calling forth my people. Being black in Denver is building a flotilla and learning to become my own safe space.
That’s a complicated question, of
course. I’m from Atlanta, where I hardly knew anyone but black people, so it’s definitely different being here. I think if I were searching for cultural validation in Denver, I’d be deprived. But since I was raised with it, I can enjoy so much of what this city has to offer, without the shackles of such heavy, overt racism and hate as I found in the South. So I think being black in Denver means paying attention to your own cultural identity, working hard not to let the bullshit outside of you define your blackness, and being determined to shine your brightest within the gift of your blackness.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Black In Denver | Pg. 171
Contact Information blackindenver.com
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Chantel
Co-Owner, Novel Strand Brewing Co.
One of the first things that struck
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Devin
Rapper, Producer, Musician, Educator
To me, it means pride, culture,
me on our way to Colorado was the lack
safety, knowledge, and diversity. There are
of diversity. Where I’m from, I was one in
so many different types of us black people.
a mass of people who looked like me. In
The culture and roots push me to do what
Denver, I’m usually the odd one out. Also,
I do.
being in the craft beer industry, there are not many people who look like me. When we opened our brewery, there was a lot of conversation around what it looks like to be Afro-Latina in beer. It’s been an interesting experience to figure out who I am here. I haven’t quite figured that out yet, but I feel like I’ve allowed myself to be more comfortable in my skin. Denver is so laid back and judgment-free. There’s a certain level of freedom here. Pg. 172 | Black In Denver
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
W h at y o u to d o e s it m ea be bla c k i n n to D e n ve r?
Joel
Kriste
Executive Chef & Owner, May-I Personal Chef
Co-Founder, Black Women’s Alliance of Denver
For me, being black in Denver
To be black in Denver is an
is about a creating community, and that
opportunity. It’s the chance to be bigger in
community, to me, is a safe space where
a city where you’re outnumbered. Leading
we can bear witness to one another. The
each day as an example for yourself and
weight of being the only one in a place is
your family. Taking each task, job and
heavy here, that’s why there’s a real need
direction to the fullest. The entrepreneurs,
to have spaces to connect. However, being
9-5ers, and developers, it’s your time to do
black in Denver also provides a unique op-
something.
portunity to remove the mask, show up as ourselves, and evolve into the people we want to be.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Black In Denver | Pg. 173
Contact Information blackindenver.com
Jasmine Natkita Gold Author of Black In Denver
Jasmine Narkita Gold is the visionary founder
and
artist
behind
Black
In
Denver – an incredibly poignant portrait and interview series which features Black residents of Denver, CO.
Jasmine was born in Maryland and
raised in Nashville where she entrenched a successful career in Public Relations. Notwithstanding
her
professional
successes, Jasmine found herself observing an
unfulfilling
routine
of
work
and
combatting ostracization for her inability to connect with others of open mind. A compelling desire for change propelled Jasmine to embark on an exploratory journey in which she sought a new place to call home, and meaningfulness in newness. Together with her fiancé’ they traveled to several capitals that paled in comparison to The Mile High City. Thus, the couple
brown faces obliged Jasmine to seek
there hides the distinct grotesquery of
relocated and became official “transplants”
a community of open-minded people,
racism. It thrives because it is camouflaged
of Denver in 2015.
who were not necessarily Black, but with
by the city’s rapidly expanding populous,
Denver afforded the couple a hip
whom she could share other fulfilling
and because it is often undeclared by those
and refreshing landscape they found rich
commonalties. Her pursuit to find peers
who are on the receiving end. Jasmine
in art, diversity, entertainment, and history.
unearthed individuals of all races who
recalls her bouts with micro-aggressive
They delighted in the full acceptance
were extraordinary conversationalists and
racism within her workplace(s), as well as
they received as newcomers. Conversely,
offered a wide breadth of knowledge
the feelings of uncertainty and loneliness
Jasmine soon realized the assortment
concerning time, space, and the universe.
for having no one to discuss the matter.
of residents which make up the Denver
As well, she discovered yoga, meditation,
Deciding the problem was too damaging
population includes a deficient percentage
dance, wellness, and hiking groups in which
to ignore, Jasmine was motivated to find
of Black people. And that where one race
she found genuine acceptance of herself in
more members of the Black community
is predominant, there is an inevitable
raw form.
and to devise a means to unify them.
absence of cultural and developmental
Further observations of Denver
She began sharing Black-centric events
propriety.
revealed that amid the rich and vibrant
such as “Hip-Hop Yoga” and Spoken Word
culture Denver offers at a surface level,
gatherings on her social media platforms
The
disparity
of
Pg. 174 | Black In Denver
black
and
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Let Us Connect You
“I want to pay homage to people who are diverse in their diversity. I want to express gratitude to a community, which I felt I belonged to.”
MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
to bring people of color together. This
Black in Denver?”, to which Jalisa responded:
community. I want the people in my series
enterprise was the onset of Black In
“To me, to be Black in Denver means to be
to speak for themselves.” My work is
Denver, though the extent of its potential
constantly discovering oneself. Finding out
inspired by humans and our purpose here.
wasn’t yet realized. Through this initiative,
where you fit in between assimilation and
I envision a world where all people can
however, she began meeting other Black
ancestry while understanding who you are
be authentic expressions of themselves. I
people with whom she connected, and that
authentically. And it’s dope because we get
believe that photography has the power to
also graciously accepted her, which she
the ability to choose where we want to fall.”
capture the soul of a person.
found prevailing and empowering:
“I want to pay homage to people
published to Jasmine’s Instagram page,
look at identity. The portraits are of unique
who are diverse in their diversity. I want to
which rapidly garnered more than 100
individuals, both locals and transplants.
express gratitude to a community, which I
likes. The admiration for Jalisa’s photo
The background colors are as vibrant
felt I belonged to. I experienced a euphoric
and story, as well as the many supportive
and varied as the community. Each color
moment when I realized I was peaceful
comments, revealed that the simplicity of a
repeats intentionally, representing our
with self and with being me. Back home,
photo could serve as a powerful means of
unity and connectedness.
I was judged for being different. Being
connection and validation.
here [in Denver] and being able to exist
Jasmine describes the evolvement
poetic, and revealing accounts of life in
authentically as I am is powerful.”
of her Black In Denver series as humbly
Denver, ranging from the importance of
new
“coming together like a holy trinity.” A
community building to taking up space in
associates unearthed the revelation that
friend’s endorsement to develop the first
an ever-evolving city. As a whole, this series
Jasmine was not alone in feeling culturally
photo into a series of photographs and
shows that Denver’s diverse community
unacknowledged and eager to abridge the
personal accounts was all the confirmation
fosters a culture of authenticity. My work
cultural gap. Additionally, she’d discovered
Jasmine would need to set to work. Today,
supports
something unique in Denver and wanted
Jasmine has brilliantly assembled of over
community insights, that identity is not
to have a conversation about how [Black]
forty pictures of radiant and beautiful
a monolith. In a world where stereotypes
representation was lacking within an
Black faces, and their wonderfully telling
have made black people out to be copies of
otherwise rich and vibrant culture. “It’s a
responses about what it means to be Black,
each other, I hope to change the narrative
powerful thing to be here.”, she remarked.
in Denver.
and raise awareness about the power of
Connecting
with
her
Subsequently, she began to contemplate
Jalisa’s photo and response were
“I take all the pictures, and I write
Black in Denver takes a critical
Participants
and
offer
demonstrates,
poignant,
through
being oneself.
what it means to be Black in Denver for
all the articles. I select my subjects through
others.
referrals, direct message requests, or I
uncertain of Black in Denver’s continuance.
Black In Denver was unofficially
may reach out to people in the community
Like so many exceedingly talented artisans,
established in 2018 when Jasmine took
who represent a connection point, i.e.,
she is a visionary with big plans for her
a candid photo of “Jalisa;” who would
community event planners, artists, etc.
future and the betterment of humankind.
become the very first subject in her 2018
Sometimes, they’re just regular people who
The world awaits her future creations with
Black In Denver series. Jalisa is a regal
are locals of Denver or transplants like me
bated breath as she is sure to leave a trail
Black woman, Mental Health educator,
who are just living life.
of awakened, enlightened, and inspired
and the owner of Soulflower Experiences.
To her, Jasmine posed the groundbreaking
intentionally removed my voice because I
question: “What does it mean to you to be
don’t want to be the voice of the [Black]
Artist
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/BlackInDenver
Statement:
I
have
Beyond 2020, Jasmine is yet
individuals in her wake. -Written By Porsha Stuckey
Black In Denver | Pg. 175
Contact Information denverurbanspectrum.com
Rosalind “Bee� Harris Publisher
Pg. 176 | Business Features
Since
1987,
Denver
Urban
entrepreneurship and leadership. With
Spectrum has been spreading the news
a distribution of 25,000 monthly printed
about people of color. For over 30 years
copies, Denver Urban Spectrum is one
this publication has been sharing content
of
about the community, youth, progress,
publications in the Denver metro area.
the
most
sought-after
community
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Let Us Connect You - CONTENT SPONSORS -
PEOPLE & BUSINESSES
MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
THAT ARE AMAZING Pages 176-197
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 177
Contact Information denverblackpages.com
Carla Ladd
Owner | Denver Black Pages Explain what you do?
by providing a comprehensive tool by
which to market their products and
Internet
I am the CEO of Innovative Marketing
Solutions
(IIMS,
services to a targeted audience.
L.L.C.), a black, woman-owned company
•to be the Internet marketing tool of
established in 2002. We are the publisher
choice for Colorado’s County, City and
of the DenverBlackPages.com, the Denver
State Organizations and Corporations
Little Black Book (print publication),
that desire to connect with Colorado’s
Strictly Bizness Nite, and the Mountain
Black residents, visitors, and businesses.
Region Black Economic Summit (Success Summit).
Why do you do what you do?
Entrepreneurship is my passion!
Our mission is to
My father was an entrepreneur and so
•to provide a simple, easy to use, and user-
was his father. My maternal grandmother
friendly place for users to discover places
was an entrepreneur and so was her
to visit, play, and eat, black business, and
grandmother so, it's truly in my blood.
night life in the Metro Denver
-Written By Brandon Bornes
•to empower Colorado’s Black businesses
Pg. 178 | Business Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information bbiprofessional.com
Jice Johnston
Owner | Black Business Initiative
What is BBI About?
Founded
Business
in
Initiative,
2014, a
The
Public
Black Benefit
Corporation, aims to change the narrative by
creating
and
supporting
holistic
solutions by working with community members, government, private partners, and organizations to deliver strong business acumen training, mentorship programs, cooperative and traditional pathways to access capital, increased patronage in Black-owned businesses, and sound policy that closes the economic chasm known as the “wealth gap.� What are some things that you are excited about?
Recently we have received a ot of
recognition. Ie Denver Business Journal have 40 under 40. We got the Urban Leadership Foundation Legacy and Leadership award. We were awarded the Denver Urban Spectrum African Americans who make a difference. We were awarded the Colorado black women for political action emerging leader award. We are out here. We are
What piece of advice would you give
working for the community and people are
your younger self?
recognizing the work that's being done..
that means that we are probably right on
Discerning. I think it's always a tightrope
track, a lot of businesses struggles to make
walk. When you have a vision and a
it into their fifth year. So the fact that we're
passion and you are about doing the work
here and we're strong and we're growing
and you are about your community and
has been great.
one of the things that is has been pretty
Discernment. be a little bit more
painful for me is sometimes if there are Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
people in the community that want to take advantage of Your good will that want to take advantage of your time that want to take advantage of your desire to be a help and you have to be able to find how to maintain yourself and your mission and your vision and still love the community that you're here to serve. -Written By Brandon Bornes Business Features | Pg. 179
Contact Information sistah.biz
Makisha Boothe
Owner & Consultant
Honored by the Colorado Black
also served as the Senior Adviser to the
Chamber of Commerce with the Clara
Colorado State Senate President. She
Brown
Award,
U.S.
owned and operated Ya Ya Spa, LLC in
Small
Business
Young
Denver, Colorado, while working in the
Entrepreneur of the Year Award for
political world. Ya Ya Spa was featured
Region and State of Colorado, Makisha
in Black Enterprise and was known for
Boothe, “Queen of the Quickstart�, teaches
its nostalgic atmosphere and specialty
entrepreneurs how to build systems and
pedicures.
rapid improvement structures that grow
their businesses and foster smooth daily
Makisha helps small businesses re-think
operations.
their brands, systems, resource allocation,
and human capital strategies.
Recipient
of
the
Administration
Before founding Sistahpreneurs,
As a rapid improvement coach,
the business haven for Black female entrepreneurs, Makisha co-founded and
Makisha’s expertise spans a wide range
led the Denver Public Schools Innovation
of strategic consulting solutions:
Lab, Imaginarium. The lab was the first
1.
district-run lab of its kind in the nation, and was designed to help principals re-
and turnaround 2. Innovation and design thinking pro-
design their school models and test new
Pg. 180 | Business Features
Business and organizational startup
gramming
instructional strategies in the classroom.
3.
Graphic facilitation
Makisha has worked in politics
4.
Strategic planning and visioning
and education reform on the national,
5.
Systems analysis and design
state and local levels, to pass landmark
6. Community and family engagement
innovation and choice legislation. She
7.
Policy and political strategy
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
Candice
Danielle
Life Coach
Digital Marketing Director
Danielle, serial entrepreneur and
mom of four, is the Digital Marketing Director and Online Community Manager for
Sistahpreneurs.
She
began
her
entrepreneurial journey by running her own in home daycare for 8 years as a way to be home with her children and still make an income. She later co-founded a local media company for pop culture where she had daily podcasts featuring everything from comic books to movies. Her latest endeavor is her role as owner and photographer for Lotus & Lily Photography, a lifestyle and portrait photography company based in
Candice was born in Jackson, TN
and raised in Denver, CO. With nearly 15 years experience in education, she has had various roles in career such as founding school director, as well as providing district wide trainings for Denver Public Schools. With a deep commitment to providing culturally relevant experiences to school age students, she is currently developing a K12 curriculum focused on entrepreneurship. As Founder and CEO of Platinum Life LLC she is excited to partner with other women to unleash their inner life boss.
Denver. As Digital Marketing Manager for Team SPR, Danielle manages the online village and sales funnel.
Through
her
work
at
Sistahpreneurs, she has combined her love for seeing small businesses succeed and passion for helping black female entrepreneurs like her fulfill their dreams. Coming from a matriarchal Caribbean family, she follows in the footsteps of her grandmother, mother, and many others, paving a way for coming generations by creating and supporting local businesses.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 181
Contact Information history.denverlibrary.org/blair
BLAIR CALDWELL RESEARCH LIBRARY
A Tourist Perspective By Porsha Stuckey
Nestled in the heart of Denver’s
historic and ethnically vibrant Five Points district, the Blair Caldwell African American Research Library has, for seventeen years, been serving the community as a reserve of Black history archives.
The 40,000 square foot library
contains three impressive floors, each dedicated
to
collections
of
showcasing the
considerable
achievements
of
African-Americans in Denver, and their contributions
to
revolutionizing
the
American West.
The library was conceived by the
honorable Wellington Web, the first Black Mayor of Denver, and First Lady Wilma
Denver’s City Council. I was permitted the
migrated to the West as early as 1860,
honor to meet with Ms. Terry Nelson, the
settled, and developed the land, further
library’s Special Collection and Community
advancements by well-known civil and
Resource Manager, who granted me the
equal rights leaders could not have been
privilege of a private tour. Upon entry, I
made. This provocative work of art begs
was immediately enveloped by a sense
us to contemplate the enormity that we
of a sacred welcoming and belonging.
abounded after a liberation that was never
Artist Yvonne Muinde’s outstanding mural,
intended to occur, and have prevailed in a
which surrounds the front desk, shone
country in which we used to be enslaved.
down on me like a melanated sun and
Upon entry, this stunning painting chides
seemed to beckon me nearer. Entitled,
that we are stronger together and that our
The Spirit of Togetherness, the acrylic wall
successes are primarily due to the courage
painting is most befitting the entrance
and inventiveness of our ancestors, vis-
of this unique library. It thoughtfully
à-vis, we need each other. Moving on, I
combines Black personages from the
observed that the first-floor functions as a
old West, with contemporary images of
full-service, conventional, library. However,
legendary heroes and heroines. From these
touring it was the equivalent of shaking
depictions, it is inherently understood that
a succession of prominent hands at an
if not for our browbeaten brethren, who
exclusive meet and greet.
Web. The couple envisioned erecting a museum that would preserve and showcase Black folks’ underrepresented influences on Denver’s educational, political, and economic advancements. The name, “Blair Caldwell” is a combination of two prominent political figures proposed by the Webs. Omar Blair, a Tuskegee Airman who later became the first Black president of the Denver school board, and Elvin Caldwell, who was the first Black member admitted to Pg. 182 | Business Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
A large portion of the first-
floor’s walls is lined with an assemblage of photographs and excerpts detailing the accomplishments of some of Denver’s past
and
present
council
members,
educators, attorneys, ministers, journalists, ambassadors,
firefighters,
Tuskegee
Airmen, and diplomats. Reading about them from behind their roped enclosure was a wonderful refresher that debunks the myth that we are incompetent to attain such achievements, or are the
of Denver’s Black history and beyond.
the Pattern Shop. All were some of the first
minority in such statuses.
Ascending to
Such titles in each compilation include:
Black-owned businesses to successfully
Blair Caldwell’s second floor uncovers
“Denver Landmarks & Historic Districts,”
open and operate with longevity in Denver
a long wooden hall of striking glass
“The Mediterranean In History,” “Africa
dating back to the 1900s. I emerged from
display cases. They contain relics and
– The Time Has Come,” “Sowing The
my four-hour tour with a new layer of
collectibles of African Americans, not long
Mustard Seed,” “Visions of Finland,” “North
education, completely reinvigorated, and
freed from slavery, who accomplished
American Indian Landmarks, Travelers
grateful. Knowledge of self has always
extraordinary
racially
Guide,” and “In Our Own Words.” And yet,
been posited as quintessential for every
hostile eras. Memorabilia documenting
the third floor of Blair Caldwell seems to
individual to achieve self-actualization,
their diplomas, degrees, and prominent
await Black history- seekers as a gracious
or to become the most that one can be.
affiliations with top-ranking social groups,
host, a most welcomed guest. Exiting
The birthplace of self-knowledge initiates
religious sects, and educational networks,
the elevator to the third level beholds a
from deep inside each person, and the
widely believed as exclusive to Whites
sprawling galleria of vivid hand-painted
stimulus for this initiation is generated
only members, extend the full length of
portraits of Black pioneers whom you and
through factual storytelling about one’s
the second level. Additionally, the second
your children ought to know. The waxed
parents, extended family, place of origin,
floor houses a quaint study and media
corridor
unrestricted
and heritage. These tidbits of knowledge
room tastefully adorned with a salient
opening to an alluring exhibition hall,
are paralleled to droplets of water, which,
mural by local artist, Darrell Anderson.
through which visitors may self-guide
when coalesced, form a great lake. To be
Entitled, The Essence of Huey P. Newton,
themselves or schedule a directed tour. The
denied such stories will inevitably prove
the canvas pays a whimsical tribute to
museum is unique for its thoughtful design
detrimental to an individual’s pursuit to
the late co-founder of the Black Panther
to provide a palpable and interactive
self-actualize. Yet, thankfully, the Blair
Party. Furthermore, visitors may devour
learning experience. I delighted in sitting
Caldwell
a considerable collection of reference
in the replicated version of the iconic Roxy
Library and Museum is likened to a
books and academic journals on microfilm.
Theatre (unphotographed at the behest of
reservoir, standing at the ready to help
These donated collections are dedicated
Mrs. Nelson), which plays an informative
replenish some of the missing narratives.
to
and entertaining, 8-minute docufilm about
the
things
furtherance
amid
and
preservation
then
reveals
an
African
American
Research
-Written By Porsha Stuckey
the history of Denver.
Sightseers will be pleased to
discover other staged reproductions of Denver’s historical accounts, such as the Mural of Barbershop exhibit, the first Denver Trolley replica, and rare photos of Hendey & Meyer’s: Erecting and Boiler Shop, Excelsior Steam Engine Works, and Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 183
Contact Information shirleystewart.us
Most people are never going to have that. So what I do is I explain the process and find out what their income is to see what program I can put them in, and get them down payment assistance. Once I get them pre-approved, we start looking for a home. What are the biggest concerns from Home Sellers?
How much can they get for it?
I find a lot of times, they think they can get more than what the market analysis is. What I do is, I prepare the market analysis for them and let them see what houses are going for in their particular area and they can take a look at it, and they can make a decision from there. What advice can you give to New Real
Shirley Stewart
estate professionals?
Real Estate
You are going to need some
money because you got to pay for your What are some skills you have developed
didn't like me in the beginning, but by the
schooling up front.
I would recommend
over the years that's helped you be
time we were done, they loved me. It's a
that
at
successful?
matter of dealing with their personality.
Why do you do what you do?
I've been in sales for 30 years, and
you
have
least
$2,500.
Well, my passion is for first-time
my first stint was with Mary Kay cosmetics.
how did you weather the ups and downs
homebuyers. I'm geared towards the lower
At that time I didn't wear any makeup, but
in the real estate industry?
income families. Those that think they
I joined it anyway because it was a sales
As long as you put some money to
can't own a house, single parents who think
job and I could get a tax write-off. That
the side, you should be ok. An emergency
they can't own a home, people who have
was kind of like a foundation for me to get
fund is a big deal, not just for real estate
credit issues that think keep them from
into sales, learning how to set goals and
agents, but for every single person in
purchasing a home. It's getting people in
learning how to dream. They also taught
America, and that's just having six months
the houses that don't think they can own
me sales techniques.
of payments saved up for a rainy day.
one, that makes my day.
You could have
something that someone absolutely loves,
give me a call, I try and help.
but if they don't like you, they're not going
What are the most prominent concerns
to buy anything from you. So the first step
from Home Buyers?
is just being likable and having people
skills to be able to adapt to different
payment. A lot of people think that you
personalities. I've had clients that probably
need a 20 grand downpayment for a house.
Pg. 184 | Business Features
When people
Their biggest concern is their down
-Written By Brandon Bornes
Read Full Article At MyBlackColorado.com/Housing
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information dagmaleblanc.exprealty.com
Dagma Le-Blanc Real Estate
As a Realtor nearing ten years
ensure my connection to an extensive
minded individuals who share a passion
in sales and residential real estate, I enjoy
network of industry insiders, making the
for increasing positive exposure within
being the direct connection between my
moment you wake up and decide to buy
our community. If I could give my younger
clients and the home of their dreams. I
a home, searching for the perfect home,
self advice, it would be, make mistakes
have found that the foundation of success
financing, closing day, and everything in-
and make them often. Every decision you
in my industry is the willingness, patience,
between, as smooth as possible. There is
make will lead you to exactly where you're
and understanding that the universe
no aspect of the home buying process with
supposed to be. A cornerstone for wealth
is continuously providing the perfect
which I am not intimately familiar. I work
in this country is real estate. Let me help
opportunities, circumstances, and people
tirelessly to ensure clients get the home
you leave a lasting legacy.
to make things happen.
that not only meets all expectations but
exceeds them.
My clients know when working
with me, they will receive a level of care that
is second to none. My years of experience
am most excited to collaborate with like-
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
-Written By Dagma Le-Blanc
In this season of my business, I
Business Features | Pg. 185
Contact Information solidrockcdc.com
Solid Rock
Community Development Corporation
A Heart For Southeast
Pastor Benjamin & Wanda Anderson
A community-focused mission and
the thought and accept the concept.”
entities in promoting healthy environments,
Pastor Ben Anderson’s personal professional
philosophy
is
healthy
communities,”
Anderson
said.
best
Of course, Solid Rock Christian Center is
“We can do that with a [community
summed up by a quote plastered on the
much more than a church — it is the nexus
development corporation] rather than a
Solid Rock Christian Center meeting room.
for the rebirth of Southeast Colorado
church structure.”
“Some of you will rebuild the
Springs, a neighborhood at once steeped
ancient ruins of your cities,” it reads. “Then
in culture and historically bogged down
you will be known as a rebuilder of walls
by crime and poverty. Anderson serves
came to Colorado Springs 30 years ago by
and a restorer of homes.”
as executive director of the Solid Rock
way of the U.S. Army, from which he retired
Community
Corporation,
as a sergeant first class. He has a master’s
origin — the biblical book of Isaiah — was
a nonprofit he founded to collaborate
degree in business management from
deliberate, Anderson said. He wanted all
with all sectors of the community to help
Webster University, as well as a master’s in
the church’s visitors, regardless of religious
facilitate economic opportunities to the
divinity from Denver Seminary.
affiliation, to relate to the words.
Southeast.
The omittance of the quote’s
“I didn’t want people to be
Development
-Written By Erinn Callahan
“[The SRCDC] is a vehicle, a
intimidated by the scripture,” Anderson
tool, and it’s an organization that can be
said. “I wanted them to be able to accept
effective in working with other different
Pg. 186 | Business Features
A Baltimore native, Anderson
for The Southeast Express
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information hendersonconsulting.org
Gené Henderson
Owner | Henderson Consulting
in 1989. Here she would, for twenty years,
base consistently increased to over forty
do an impeccable job of administering
corporate clients. What sets us apart is
assessments, counseling, and facilitating
our customer service. Our clients are very
referrals for employees with personal or
important to us. So, if that means taking a
work-related concerns. Alas, despite having
client late or after hours, we do it. You get
achieved great success and notoriety
what you need here.”
among her colleagues and clients, there
came a time when Gene’ began to question
is led by Mr. Aaron Henderson, Ph.D.,
whether remaining at Penrose was in her
who is Mrs. Henderson’s eldest son. The
best interest:
firm comprises an intentionally diverse
“During that time, many people,
staff of impassioned counselors whose
Henderson
Consulting,
today,
including my patients, family, and friends,
credentialing and experience together
Henderson Consulting & EAP services is the
told me that I needed to start my own
total eighty years. “Our staff mirrors the
brainchild and booming life’s work of Mrs.
business. I was good at what I did and
population that we serve, which includes
Genè Henderson, an African American,
underpaid for it. Penrose was making
the military. Because mental health is
Master Addictions Counselor, who, in 2006,
money off of me that I could have been
taboo, people want to sit down with people
founded the mental health treatment and
making for myself...”
they can relate to.” Accordingly, the firm
Employee Assistance Program and services
Mrs. Henderson resigned from
has arisen a highly respected and trusted
firm.
Penrose and accepted a position with the
mental health provider in Colorado Springs
Mrs. Henderson attributes an
El Paso County, Human Relations group,
and had administered more than 4,500
extraordinary sum of over thirty years’
which unfortunately proved even less
clinical sessions by the end of 2019.
field practice to a range of addiction-
fulfilling than her previous role. After one
related disciplines. And, she is impressively
year, she decided she had had enough:
Consulting include integrating a branch of
accomplished in the academic arena,
“The atmosphere for me was
adolescent outreach, specifically tailored
having earned two Masters of Science
stressful. It was also an environment in
to reach children right where they are, in
and
emphasizing
which diversity was not valued. I developed
school. As well, the firm strives to continually
Rehabilitation Counseling, and attaining
high blood pressure as a result. That’s when
administer services to an impeccable
several hard-earned national and state
I made up my mind to start my own firm.”
standard of excellence and integrity.
certifications in Addiction Counseling.
After a loving endorsement of
Clients’ are assured their interactions
Mrs. Henderson found the facets
support and reassurance from her husband,
from intake to discharge will always be
of addiction intriguing, and the cascading
Mrs. Henderson began structuring her
handled by licensed, compassionate, and
impacts
Art
degrees,
of
each
chemical
dependency
on
Future aspirations for Henderson
business plan. She eventually made a rather
competent professionals, all of whom are
individuals and their families ultimately
seamless
inspired her to go into the field. Thus, she
mental
began her counseling career in 1979 in
consultancy. After twenty years in the
Topeka, Kansas.
industry, she’d entrenched an esteemed
reputation and was a well-known entity in
In 1987, Genè moved to Colorado
transition
from
corporatized
appropriately educated and trained to
healthcare
to
independent
drive improved quality of life experiences.
Springs and took a position with Penrose
the healthcare field:
St.
Francis’
Profile
EAP
department.
“When I opened my doors on
Her distinct aptitude for the role swiftly
January 1, 2007, I already had eight
merited her a promotion to management
corporate clients. Over the years, our client
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 187
Contact Information in-balancedance.com
where members can attend a wide array of courses including physical and mental wellness programs with the intent to encourage healthy behavioral and lifestyle changes.
I like to say I got started in the
housing projects on the West side of Chicago Illinois. We lived on the 14th floor and the elevators were always broken, so I went up and down 26 flights of stairs at least 3-4 times a day, I joined the Army and realized its rigorous fitness Program was very easy for me to concur, I guess the projects did something good, I became a Master fitness Instructor and taught fitness to Military leaders who were obligated to keep their Soldiers Physical Fit. It became a passion learning its benefits to health and I would like to share that passion of health with
a community stricken with
health disparities that can be illuminated with knowledge.
A
healthy
lifestyle
change
can make a difference in your mental, spiritual and physical health, giving you the opportunity to live life to its fullest, it can reverse the “irreversible” diabetes, stop the ingestion of dangerous medications and ladies, it will take away the need to purchase make-up, your nutritional change will be your makeup and you’ll love it and your new vitality for life. I am learning that
Kara Varner
Physical Fitness alone is not the answer to a healthy body, but what we put into our
Resume Branding Expert
body, giving our body movement and the
I am a Retired Military (E-8 MSG)
to Dance Therapy to encourage more
ability to be stress free at will, this is what I
Soldier, A lifelong exercise enthusiast,
avenues to mental, physical, and spiritual
offer at In-Balance. I would tell my younger
Psychotherapist/Yoga-Exercise Instructor,
healing.
self “You go little girl, you got it going on”
and I am in the process of expanding
my Private Practice from a talk therapy,
educational fitness and therapy studio
Pg. 188 | Business Features
I do what I do to provide an
. -Written By Leona Abdulla-Ward
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information chloemaddisonskin.com
Cashmyr & Rodney Scott Chloe Maddison Skin Studio Owners premier
Chloe + Maddison Skin is a Permanent
specializing
in
the
Makeup latest
Studio industry
techniques in micropigmentation and has the largest digital footprint in Permanent Makeup within Colorado Springs, CO. We service clients in need of permanent makeup services such as Microblading, Microshading, Permanent Lip Color and Eye Liner, Scalp Micropigmentation, and Scar Camouflage. We utilize high quality tools and pigments to ensure that the services we provide last for the maximum average time. We are so proud to service Colorado Springs and surrounding areas! If you’re interested in how our services can impact your life please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Thank you so much! Behind The Scenes with Cashmyr
Cashmiyr received her education
in Esthetics in 2014 from The Salon Professional Academy and soon after decided
to
pursue
her
dreams
in
permanent makeup artistry. Cashmiyr’s eye for detail and symmetry along with her empathetic nature is what drives her to provide exceptional service to her clients. As a result of her passion for esthetics and makeup Cashmiyr opened Chloe + Maddison Skin Studio named after her two beautiful daughters.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 189
Let Us Connect You
MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
“My first thoughts were that
that baby didn’t get to use his policy for those things. This was a pivotal moment for me because it helped me realize how important having life insurance is.
The
only thing I could do was help ease that family’s burden. I took care of as much of the administrative process as I could, so that the only task he had to focus on was his grandson’s arrangements.”
Realizing that neither her children
nor any of her friends’ children had life insurance,
deepened
her
passion
for
the types of insurance she sold, and the importance of insurance education. Mrs. Bee wisely advises that coverage isn’t just about safeguarding assets, but providing for the people we love when we can’t.
“[My agency] has a desire to
insure you where you are in life meaning, you won’t be paying for something you don’t need or want. We’ll ask you about your lifestyle, how many children you have,
Kara Varner
They believe procuring insurance coverage
Resume Branding Expert Call Dorothy at (719) 534-9844
Dorothy Bee is a highly perceptive,
well-informed, licensed insurance agent who’s passionate about preparations for the unexpected. She specializes in educating her clients about auto, home, renters, life, and business insurance, and right-fitting them for the products most suitable for their lifestyle needs.
Mrs.
Bee
owns
and
operates
Dorothy Bee Insurance Agency under the Farmers Insurance umbrella in Colorado Springs, but can access policies through other subsidiaries when necessary. Her agency has received outstanding reviews for the personable one-on-one attention and genuine concern bestowed by her staff. Pg. 190 | Business Features
isn't merely about complying with the "necessary evils" as required by law, but ensuring individuals and their families are protected when life happens.
“The
insurance
industry
was
originally a turnkey opportunity for me. I was an agent for just two weeks when I got my first life insurance claim from an older gentleman whose eighteen-yearold grandson passed away unexpectedly. Processing that claim brought home the harsh reality that if nothing else, I need to make sure every child has a life insurance policy.”
Mrs. Bee further enlightened that
life insurance for a young person is like a savings account. They can use it for college, to buy a house or anything they need. As a new insurance agent who was suddenly obliged to support a parent through their worst nightmare, amplified her motivation:
if you own a home, if you’re still paying a mortgage, and income. If someone falls and hurts themselves on your lawn, we’re going to make sure that if you’re a millionaire, your assets are protected.”
In closing, Mrs. Bee wishes to
debunk the myths that insurance is either too expensive or unimportant. Customers can save hundreds of dollars by bundling their coverages, and thousands of dollars more when faced with a natural disaster that destroys a home, car accident, or an untimely death. “Money can’t replace a loved one, but it will take one burden off your mind and allow you some time to gather your strength.” The average cost for a funeral is $7000.00. These types of financial obligations are much easier to handle when protected. “Please don’t wait to learn the importance of insurance coverage until after it’s too late.” -Written By Porsha Stuckey
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information in-balancedance.com
Kara Varner
Resume Branding Expert
I
am
Kara
Varner,
Founder
and CEO of A Platinum Resume and Career Services, LLC, which provides modern and professional resumes and career
documents,
and
A
Platinum
Resume Career Academy, which provides comprehensive
on-line
training
for
jobseekers solopreneurs. I am a 4X Certified Professional
Resume Writer
and Colorado's only Certified Resume Specialist
for
Military
to
Civilian
Transitions and a Certified Employment Interview Coach. I also hold a Master of
Arts
Degree
in
Organizational
Management; a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology, and I am a Certified Trainer, LinkedIn Profile Writer, Published Author, Speaker, and Workshop Facilitator.
I started my business after I was
asked to review a neighbor’s resume, and I realized that I could make it much better. As a military spouse, I had crafted my own resume every two years. While rewriting that resume, I had that ‘aha’ moment. I researched the field, and realized that this a career. After reflecting on my life at the time - running all the time - balancing a 9 to 5 management position working for the someone else; kids in daycare at the time; not enough time for family, stretched to thin, and being married to a military officer with a short-notice deployment schedule, I knew that something had to change.
So, I made a change. I am most
proud of my ability to leave ‘corporate’ and not look back; leverage my 20-year career background in federal government,
civilian and corporate positions, and
to continue to pay it forward and
turn my passion for writing into a
give back. I am now excited to launch
successful and profitable business. I
another business, where I will teach
find so much reward in helping my
other
clients to
individuals striving for 'something more’
value
articulate their unique
proposition
through
overworked,
often
underpaid
strategic
how to create and launch their own
storytelling within professional career
resume writing and coaching business.
documents and their success! What I
My success is dependent on my clients’
have learned after almost a decade of
success - their achievements are my
owning my own business is to continue
proudest moments.
to be grateful, continue to learn and grow, that 6 figures is possible and
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 191
Contact Information lashesbytina.com
which I had no passion. I wanted to be a full time cosmetologist. That same year I opened up my own hair salon. It was more expensive to open my salon because I had to purchase all the equipment, and the rent for the location was higher too. But because it was a private space, it allowed me to create a peaceful environment with no interruptions. It was the best decision I ever made, especially since I was raising my kids as a single parent. I always had time to spend with my children, and they were always with me.
Being an artist is a gift you’re
born with. It makes me thank God that I was created so different and unique. My hands are the gift God has given me. They give me an outlet that I cannot explain. My career is something that consumes me. I eat sleep and dream about it. It keeps me focused and dedicated and always wanting to learn more. I also love sharing my knowledge with others.
Shawtina Lane
I have always known what I
by Tina. I hope to launch my new bridal
that only a handful of Black women
wanted to do from a young age. I was
followed me.
very blessed to have such foresight. After
graduating from hair design school, I
took care of me! I worked for about a week
worked at a salon company for more than
and recognized that I made in one day
two years before I realized I didn’t have to
what my paycheck was for the whole week
work there to do what I love.
working for another company. That’s when
The company was taking 60% of
I concluded I would never work for someone
my earnings, and the 40% I did receive
again; only if doing so would significantly
was taxed. After begging for a raise for
benefit me.
about a year, I got my senses together and
started renting a booth at a local salon. I
renter and went to school part-time. After
had acquired both white and black clients,
graduating from Pharmacy Technician
but after leaving the company, I realized
school in 2003, I realized it was a field for
Pg. 192 | Business Features
I reached my goal of
starting my own product line, Lashes
Lashes By Tina Owner & Instructor
In 2018
That handful of Black women
lingerie line soon. Additionally, I want to make improvements in my business by adding and training a new hair and makeup team to help me achieve my goals as a disabled veteran. I’m not done yet! I’m just getting started! I hope [My Black Colorado] stays blessed and striving in the community. Much love MBC. I appreciate the support! Keep up the great work! -Written By Shawtina Lane
I continued working as a booth
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information reggaepotxpress.com
Tamara Nisbeth
Reggae Pot Express Tamara
Nisbeth
is
an
impassioned
chef, 22 years seasoned, (no pun), and the radiant proprietor of Reggae Pot Express; a authentic Jamaican Food eatery nuzzled at the cross-section of North Academy, and East Woodmen Road.
Tamara was born and raised
in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where she recollects the seriousness with which everyone on the island anticipated and prepared Sunday dinners: “Throughout the week, it was okay to eat whatever. But Sunday dinners were a big deal. Almost everyone used only fresh ingredients to cook a proper meal of fried chicken, rice and beans, blended juices, oxtails, brown stew chicken, and sautéed goat.”
Raised
by
her
beloved
grandmother, who was also a cooking virtuoso, and Tamara’s first teacher, she began undergoing lessons in seasoning and cooking techniques as early as eight years old. In an overly ambitious yet innocent attempt to assist her grandmother with one Sunday dinner, Tamara fondly recalls adding a batch of uncooked beans to a dish and also burning the rice and peas, which resulted in a spanking. A firm lesson learned hard and well, as such a blunder never again occurred.
Tamara went on to graduate
high school with a distinction certificate in
food
preparation.
her
education,
she
Furthering
succeeded
from
Kenilworth Heart Academy in Sandy Bay, Jamaica, a graduate of Culinary Arts, with an emphasis in Commercial Food Preparation and Management.
Credentials in hand, Tamara’s
profession as a chef officially began in
who wishes to remain anonymous came
1999 at Sandals Royal Caribbean, one of
and installed her industrial sinks, fryer,
Montego Bay’s all-inclusive, couples-only
oven, and grill:
resorts on a private island. Here she was
privileged to work with top chefs from
anything. If I have maintenance work
around the world and to glean valuable
that needs to be done, I only ever call
insight from their expertise. She later
him. That’s how I know my restaurant was
acquired a work visa, which allowed her
meant to be. God provided everything I
to travel Florida, where she worked as
needed when I needed it.”
a cook at the exquisite 5-star Breakers
Palm Beach Hotel.
Reggae Pot Express in May 2015, to a
In 2008, Tamara relocated to
very enthusiastic response. Opening day
Colorado, where she served as a cook at
ushered in Jamaican food enthusiasts
the Broadmoor, Penrose Hospital, and
from all over the city, which kept the
Lead Cook within several assisted living
restaurant steadily busy from opening
facilities. All were fulfilling roles, but
until closing. Momentum for the mastery
Tamara missed supping food indigenous
of her menu shows no signs of slowing
to her island. Thus she began baking
and continues to expand. Today, diners
and selling Jamaican dishes from her
may enjoy such dishes as Oxtails, Jerk
home:
Chicken, Curry Chicken, Brown Stew
“My friend didn’t charge me
Tamara
officially
opened
“I told a few people, and it
Chicken, and much more! Prices for
blew up on Facebook. People started
entrees range from $5 - $20, and the
requesting dishes every weekend. It got
eatery provides catering services too.
to the point where it was too much. I
Reflecting on all she’s accomplished
always wanted to have a restaurant
despite the naysayers and antagonists;
since I was a young girl. That is how
Tamara advises aspiring restaurateurs
I decided to finally to do it. I started
of the following:
saving and asking my friends what steps
I needed to take.”
anyone says. If you only have $5, go out
and try with your $5. Many told me that
a
After saving enough to open modest
location,
Tamara
“Go for it – no matter what
began
I needed a minimum of $100,000 just
preparing her business plan and scouting
to get started, but that wasn’t true. Do
locations. After electing the original site
your research and make sure you have
(formerly on Chelton Road), Tamara’s
the right people on your team.”
dear friend, a kind and generous man
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
-Written By Porsha Stuckey Business Features | Pg. 193
Contact Information diamondbirdllc.com
Tanisha Bruns & Family Diamond Bird, LLC
Veteran & Women Owned, we
from our skin care routine.
specialize in Handcrafted Soaps and
Skin Care Products. Our story began
friends, who provided tons of feedback
with uncovering a number of false
and
and
more,
misleading
advertisements.
In
After sharing with our family and encouragement, reworked,
we
researched
reformulated,
and
particular, we realized the famed “1/4
improved our products. So, we invite
moisturizing cream� was much like the
you to experience the results of our
Wizard of Oz - a bunch of smoke and
passion for providing a line of skin care
mirrors. This stoked a passion to be
products that reflect a commitment to
more knowledgeable and selective in
the well being of our valued customers,
what we put on and in our bodies. It also
our community and environment. Only
created a desire to live a simpler, more
plant based oils and butters are used
natural life. This life journey started a
in our palm oil-free soaps, bath bombs
soap making hobby that allowed us to
and soaks, body scrubs, butters, oils and
eliminate useless and harmful chemicals
balms.
Pg. 194 | Business Features
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information bawmhc.org
Black America West Museum & Dr. Justina Laurena Ford
“The Lady Doctor”
Baptist Minister, John Ford in 1892, who
estimated 7000 babies (1 baby every
Ford
first move to Denver to minister at Zion
three days) during her revolutionary
was the first Black Woman Licensed
Baptist Church. Dr. Ford joined him in
career.
Physician to practice in Denver, Colorado
1902, whereafter settling in she received
from 1902 - 1952. Indeed her mother’s
her Colorado medical license.
relics
daughter, who was a nurse. And by her,
By Dr. Ford’s hands, thousands
significance in shaping the Colorado
Dr. Ford’s blooming interest in obstetrics
of men and women healed of their
we know today. Their artifacts chronicle
and homeopathic care was cultivated
afflictions, and the diverseness of her
periods between 1860 – 1950 (Civil
as she accompanied her mother when
clientele made her multilingual in more
War to WWII). Visitors are permitted
she tended to patients some years
than seven languages. As notoriety of
reasonably priced admission to a self-
after the Civil War. As an adult, the
her medicinal mastery expanded, Dr.
guided tour of Dr. Ford’s two-story, five-
young apprentice would later expound
Ford became affectionately regarded as
bedroom home wherein one can find
upon her mother’s novice teachings at
“The Lady Doctor,” and to others, “The
the very room from which she practiced
Hering Medical College, from which she
Baby Doctor.” She would pioneer many
and survey her medical instruments in
graduated in 1899. She had married
holistic treatments and safely deliver an
pristine condition.
Dr.
Justina
Laurena
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Today of
the
other
museum
African
houses
Americans’
Business Features | Pg. 195
Let Us Connect You MyBlackColorado.com/Connect
came
into
my
care
during
casual
encounters or happenstance. So, I never considered holistic healing as a career.”
Dr. Penn recalls 2012 as being her
hardest year in corporate healthcare. She was a surgical technologist at a hospital in Texas, where she’d gotten written up for a complaint she wasn’t allowed to rebut. That day she emptied her locker in preparation to immediately depart the building if they were to fire her. It took another year, but ultimately, she was unjustly terminated: "The staff had been following me
Dr. Lauren Penn
around, trying to get me fired. Eventually,
Pinpoint Chiropractic Care
they succeeded by blaming me for incidents that weren't my fault. By the
Lauren Penn has been healing
for a hospital that said it would pay for
time they succeeded, I had already been
people for more than twenty-five years.
my nursing school. However, when the time
accepted to Chiropractic School.”
She was born with an innate gift to
came, the Director of Surgery refused to
quickly discern the root cause of a person’s
sign off on my schooling because he felt
Parker University in 2017, with a Doctor
ailments and devise an effective plan of
no one liked me.”
of
care to cure and restore them. Today, as
employer’s
successfully passing all her boards, she
a Doctor of Chiropractic and Holistic
refusal to pay was a powerful motivator
opened her first private practice, Temple &
Healthcare Practitioner, she continues her
for intense self-reflection, which doubly
Penn Chiropractic in Dallas. She attained
life’s purpose through her private practice,
served to extract her strengths. During
several regular patients who sustained the
Pinpoint Chiropractic and Wellness, located
her tenure, she’d developed a special soap
practice for a year before her decision to
at 3608 Galley Road in Colorado Springs.
for her son’s skin disorder, which became
relocate to Colorado.
Dr. Penn’s journey as a physician
useful to others with similar conditions. As
began out of necessity to establish steady
well, she’d successfully treated a man with
the Rocky Mountains in 2019, she met
employment independent of corporatized
shingles using her own blend of essential
Claudine Malcolm, a local business owner
healthcare. And to acquire freedom as a
oils. Likewise, a woman with a severe case
who provided her a space to open her
single mother to readily parent her son,
of painful sinus and inflammation issues
new practice. To date, the talented doctor
who suffered from asthma and eczema.
was cured of her ailments when Dr. Penn
and therapist has made waves amid the
Yet, doctoring by far wasn’t Lauren’s initial
administered a parasite cleanse, that
urban and homeopathic communities and
objective:
consisted of applying a substance called
shows no signs of slowing down. Future
“It was a fluke. I never wanted
Paragon by way of drops on the tongue.
aspirations for Dr. Penn include expanding
to be a doctor, but the doors for nursing
That patient hasn’t suffered sinus issues
the size of her practice to accommodate
were closing for me. I’d applied to the
since.
her growing client base and continuing
University of Arlington and had been on
their waiting list for 2 ½ years. I worked
my services or expertise. Those I treated
Pg. 196 | Business Features
Nevertheless,
her
“The thing is, I never volunteered
Lauren
Chiropractic
graduated (DC)
degree.
from After
Upon arriving in the Home of
to formulate effective treatment plans through environmental remedies.
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Contact Information coloradospringsmassages.com
Claudia Malcolm World Of Wellness
What you do?
World of Wellness (WOW) is a
purpose driven center that consists of independent providers who offers wellness services to heal the mind, body and spirit. Education is central tenet in our approach as we provide affordable massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing, chiropractic services and yoga! Our yoga is donation-based to make yoga accessible to everyone. This year, we are working diligently to add emotional counseling, meditation and nutrition to the menu. Why you do what you do
Life is beautiful but we often
find ourselves distracted by the demands of our time and our hearts, distracted by suffering from accidents and disease and distracted by even our dreams. As a result of these distractions, we experience emotional and physical stress and we lose sight of the fact that life is beautiful.
At World of Wellness (WOW) we
aspire to relieve you of your distraction so that you can experience the simple beauty, pleasure of life. What is unique and valuable about your business
World of Wellness (WOW) is dif-
ferent because we genuinely want to make a difference! We want to connect with each client and we encourage talking and sharing. At World of Wellness (WOW), our main currency is hugs! -Written By Claudia Malcolm
Read more at www.MyBlackColorado.com/business
Business Features | Pg. 197
The Eastern Colorado Bank believes in building sincere working relationships. We will listen to your story and strive to understand your needs and priorities. You will find a personal touch within the Eastern Colorado Bank, and will always be treated with Honesty, Integrity and Respect. Our focus and commitment to you has remained, to this day, exactly the same as that day in 1944 when the doors were opened for the first time. Today, the Eastern Colorado Bank is operated by the third generation of the family that opened those doors and believes, it’s always about the people. Let us show you the difference a Locally Owned Community Bank can make in your business. Eastern Colorado Bank 444 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Colorado Springs, CO. 80903 719-955-0633 YourFriendlyBank.com
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