MYBLACKCOLORADO 2019
PHOTO BY JEANETTE FALU-BISHOP
OUR MISSION
To facilitate and cultivate a cohesive ecosystem of the local black community to inspire, innovate and connect local areas together. MOTIVATED BY LOVE W
e often worry that we don’t have enough resources in our community to go around. When we see someone in our society that does what we do but does it better than us, many times we get a little nervous. Instead of using competition to spur on our creativity, teamwork, work ethic and innovation, we often are soo overwhelmed with our fears and insecurities that we lash out. We gossip, we sabotage, we hurt one another. This has happened to many exceptional people in our community. We need to do better. But we need to lead by example. Our love for each other needs to be greater than our fear of failure. If I had to simplify into one word what My Black Colorado is about, it would be LOVE! Because Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, and it does not boast, it is not proud, It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. When people come in contact with our brand, that’s what I want them to experience. It's not an easy aspiration to live up to, but I believe it's worth fighting for and it's what we need as a community.
BRANDON BORNES
FOUNDER & EDITOR IN CHIEF
OUR TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS
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BRANDON BORN ES
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OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES A STORY FROM THE EDITOR
I remember like it was yesterday. I was in
college. It was my junior year. Because I procrastinated, I was desperately searching to find housing before school started. I contacted a lady who had a house for rent, but she said I would be living with foreign exchange students from across the world. At this point, I did not care, and I just needed a place to stay at before the semester started in a few days. A teammate and I agreed to move in together and split a big room for $300 a month.
I remember when we first arrived, I met our
housemates. When they saw my roommate and I who were both big, black, athletic football players, they looked intimidated and nervous; we introduced ourselves, smiled and continued unpacking our things.
Later on, when we were getting to know
them, they said that they had never really met black people and that all they knew about black people was that we either played sports, rapped or were in gangs. They were serious. I laughed at first, cause my roommate and I both played sports. But then I asked why did they think that? They said when they watched T.V. that's how we were portrayed in the media. I was speechless and just thought about that for a while.
"Stereotypes often become a reality when the truth is not present. This magazine is my attempt to show that black culture is more diverse and vibrant that it is often portrayed in our society. I hope this inspires you to dream big and be all that God has created you to be."
TABLE OF CONTENTS 6-7
Demographics of Colorado Springs
54-57
Education
8-9
Historical People and Places
58-59
Immigration
10-11
Annual Events
60-63
Family Care
12-15
Civic & Social Organizations
64-67
Women's Beauty
16-17
Community Influencers
68-69
Men's Grooming
18-19
Brother Jeff‘s Picks
70-71
Men's Fashion
20-21
Business Growth
72-75
Sports & Fitness
22-28
Creatives
76-79
Medical
Venues
80-83
Health & Wellness
29 30-35
Entertainers
84
Cannabis
36-40
Food Services
85
Legal System
41
Baking Enthusiast
86-87
42
Hospitality
88
Transportation
43
Professional Speakers
89
Information Technology
44-45
Writers
46-47
Spirituality
92
Youth Spotlight
48
Fraternities & Sororities
93
More People You Need To Know
49
Masons
94
Directory | Barber & Beauty Services
50
Finances
95
Directory | Religious Based Initiatives
51
Gun Safety
96
Sponsor Highlights
Veteran Support Services
97
Photo Wall
52-53
90-91
Automotive
Real Estate
BECOME A MEMBER ADD YOUR LISTING TO OUR ONLINE DIRECTORY
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CITY DATA
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
POPULATION
MEDIAN AGE
POVERTY RATE
465,084
34.6
13.2%
1.87% GROWTH
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
MEDIAN PROPERTY VALUE
$60,308
223,158
$243,600
7.54% GROWTH
6.56% GROWTH
3.32% GROWTH
Colorado Springs, CO has a population of
The median property value in Colorado Springs,
465,084 people with a median age of 34.6 and a
CO is $243,600, and the homeownership rate is 57.5%.
median household income of $60,308. Between
The average commute time to work is 20.2 minutes.
2015 and 2016 the population of Colorado Springs, CO
The average car ownership in Colorado Springs, CO is
grew from 456,562 to 465,084, a 1.87% increase and
2 cars per household.
its median household income grew from $56,079 to $60,308, a 7.54% increase.
Colorado Springs, CO is a census place
located in El Paso County, CO. It borders Black Forest, The population of Colorado Springs, CO is
CO; Cimarron Hills, CO; Fort Carson, CO; Fountain,
69.2% White, 17.5% Hispanic, and 6.31% Black. 13.2%
CO; Gleneagle, CO; Manitou Springs, CO; Security-
of the people in Colorado Springs, CO speak a non-
Widefield, CO; Stratmoor, CO
English language, and 96.4% are U.S. citizens.
The largest universities in Colorado Springs, CO
are Colorado Technical University-Online, with 5,016 graduates, University of Colorado Colorado Springs,
Read
More!
with 2,140 graduates, and Colorado College, with 552 graduates. 66
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COMPARE DATE FROM OTHER STATES.
DATAUSA.IO
Race & Ethnicity
Colorado Springs, CO MOST COMMON
1. White - 321,684 ± 5,177
2. Hispanic - 81,164 ± 4,279
3. Black - 29,366 ± 3,276
60%
Share
50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%
White
Hispanic
Black
Multiracial
Asian
Islander
Native
Other
DATA USA
Race or Ethnicity
In 2016, there were 3.96 times more White residents (321,684 people) in Colorado Springs, CO than any other race or ethnicity. There were 81,164 Hispanic and 29,366 Black residents, the second and third most common racial or ethnic groups.
Student Race & Ethnicity Colorado Springs, CO
MOST COMMONSTUDENT RACE OR ETHNICITY 1. White - 5,705
3. Hispanic or Latino - 1,003
2. Black - 1,984
White Black
Race or Ethnicity
Hispanic Unknown Multiracial Asian Native Islander 0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25% Share
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
55%
DATA USA
In 2015 the majority of students graduating from institutions in Colorado Springs, CO were White. These 5,705 graduates mean that there were 2.88 times more White graduates than the next closest race/ethnicity group, Black or African American, with 1,984 graduates.
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HISTORICAL LANDMARKS COLORADO SPRINGS
CARTER PAYNE CHAPEL 320 S WEBER ST, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903 (303) 297-0823
Originally built as an African Methodist
Episcopal (AME) Church in 1897, the Carter Payne Chapel at Weber and Costilla was constructed on land donated by Colorado Springs founder General William Jackson Palmer. It was always intended to be a community gathering place, for celebrating, meeting neighbors, and telling stories of the day.
TUTMOSE ACADEMY | FOUNDED BY DR. ANTHONY YOUNG INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Why did you launch the school? In 1990, the Tutmose Academy was initially named the Inroads Family and Community Services organization. In the beginning, the mission was to mentor high-risk kids who had been expelled from the traditional education system, however it was illegal for these troubled children to go to charter schools in Colorado at that time. Eventually, the laws changed, and the state provided financial backing to help work with kids who were on probation and to provide life skills training for programs such as anger management and critical thinking. In addition to teachers, we also had paid mentors who were on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All of our clients were young men between the ages of 13 and 18 who were on probation and were sent to our program as an alternative to youth detention facilities. Even though our school was open to all, my focus was really to impact the lives of young African Americans. What were some accomplishments you are proud of?
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
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We were the first charter school in the Harrison School District in Colorado Springs. In 1999, we were presented with the El Pomar Foundation “Excellence in Education� award, which recognized our
unique model that assisted these youth who were in need. In fact, on the C-SAP test, which was the standardized test for public schools, we beat two local high schools in reading and math. It was a significant accomplishment because these were kids who society had discarded. We were able to demonstrate that through a unique program, we could have students perform at high levels and improve their behavior. Many of them had previously been in trouble with the Juvenile Justice System. Our students wore uniforms to avoid wearing gang attire. This also gave them a sense of dignity since some of them could not afford nice clothes. Occasionally, I see some of the students from our first graduating class, and I am proud to say, are pursuing productive lives. The most significant achievement was helping teenagers create positive futures despite the odds and challenges of their childhood. Unfortunately, becasue of the lack of resources, our charter school closed. However many are grateful for the years we provided this service to our community which changed the trajectory of the lives of so many young people.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SYLVIA LAMB
HISTORICAL PEOPLE COLORADO SPRINGS
Fannie Mae Duncan was a philanthropist, community activist, and entrepreneur who was born in Luther, Oklahoma and moved to Colorado Springs with her family in 1933. She founded the downtown entertainment spot which served as a destination for African-Americans to enjoy, firsthand, the most celebrated black entertainers of the 1950s and 1960s, she called it the Cotton Club. Fannie Mae hired waitresses of all ethnicities and received guests of all colors. Through her visionary approach to business, she peacefully helped integrate Colorado Springs at a time when most venues were segregated.
When the Cotton Club’s famous black performers were barred from the city’s excellent hotels, she responded with typical flair and purchased a historic Victorian mansion as her residence and opened it to icons like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Count Basie. A sign in the club’s window summed up Duncan’s philosophy: “Everybody Welcome” Her home became a showcase for the entire community. She eventually earned widespread support for her philosophy of inclusion from unlikely sources, including the local police chief. The Cotton Club evolved into a symbol of hope.
FANNIE MAE DUNCAN Birth & Death | 1918-2005
information from the El Pomar Foundation | ElPomar.org
JAMES FORD POOLE Birth & Death | 1936-2008
James Ford Poole was born in Laurens, South Carolina, and received a B.A. in Mathematics from Benedict College. He became an admired leader in business, politics and community service at the local, state and national level. James was also a gifted singer and joined the NORAD Aradcom Choral Group when he enlisted in the Army. He was a featured soloist on an album the group recorded at Carnegie Hall, and his other notable performances included the Diana Shore and Arthur Godfrey shows and Colorado Governor Roy Romer’s inauguration. Mr. Poole relocated to Pueblo in 1962 and became a math and civics teacher at Central High School where he shaped the minds of many future leaders. His
entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish James F. Poole Associates, becoming the first AfricanAmerican Certified Financial Planner in Pueblo. During his 40 years as a respected investment advisor, he held positions with many organizations including, Treasurer, Pueblo African American Concern Organization, Board of Trustees for Benedict College and Pueblo Community Health Foundation, and was one of five member appointments to the Colorado State Insurance Board by Governor Lamm. He also was a lifetime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., served as the Treasurer for the Colorado Democratic Party and as a Board Member of the Colorado State Centennial/Bicentennial Commission.
information from the El Pomar Foundation | ElPomar.org
Rev. Dr. Milton E. Proby dedicated his life to improving race relations and serving the needs of the poor in Colorado Springs. He was senior pastor of St. John’s Baptist Church from 1958 until his death in May 2005. Rev. Proby was a powerful and positive influence in Southern Colorado. He was inspired by the words of his friend Dr. Martin Luther King, “that we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood.” So, Jr., Rev. Proby worked diligently to bring that dream to reality. During his 47 years in Colorado Springs, Rev. Proby actively championed local people facing inequality and injustice and was a special adviser to three Colorado governors and a founding member of the Colorado’s Civil Rights Commission and the Colorado Springs
Human Relations Commission. His dedication to justice for all also included tackling issues of hunger and poverty. In 1988, Rev. Proby founded the St John’s Food Bank which continues to feed thousands of people throughout the city. Not only was he the voice of civil rights in Colorado Springs but he had also previously served six years in the United States Army and acted as a civilian liaison to commanding generals at Fort Carson, the Air Force Academy, and Peterson Air Force Base. Rev. Proby received numerous local acknowledgments from civic and governmental organizations for his St. John’s service to Colorado Springs. This included the Colorado College Community Diversity Award and the El Paso County Bar Association recognition. He was named a “Living Legend” by the local chapter of the National Association
for the Advancement of Colored People and named one of the “Most Influential People” in Colorado by The Gazette. His work was recognized nationally when the United States Government flew the flag over the Capitol in honor of his contributions.
DR. MILTON E PROBY Birth & Death | 1929-2005
information from the El Pomar Foundation | ElPomar.org EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SYLVIA LAMB
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ANNUAL EVENTS COLORADO SPRINGS
HISTORY OF THE CONFERENCE On January 16, 1993, the first African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) was held at the Hillside Community Center, Colorado Springs. It was sponsored by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, INC. AFRICAN AMERICA YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE PO BOX 296, COLORADO SPRINGS CO 80901 (303) 549-0757 | AAYLC-CO.ORG
Students in grades 6 - 12, experience a day full of learning and fun. Registration is FREE. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Parents are also welcome to attend our Parent Workshop. Located on the beautiful Colorado College campus in Colorado Springs.
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Our mission is to educate, empower, and enlighten youth to become critical thinkers, responsible citizens, and embrace the traditions, histories, and cultures of their communities. The AAYLC has hosted over 12,000 students in the Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Denver area and has given over $120,000 in student scholarships. The AAYLC has a sustained and rich history that instills high standards and positive moral values in our youth.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY
ANNUAL EVENTS COLORADO SPRINGS
OMEGA SHOWBOAT TALENT COMPETITION
MUTLICULTURAL BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM
ROCKY MOUNTAIN QUES UPLIFT FOUNDATION
ONEBODY ENT PRESENTS
FB.COM/WERONEBODY
(719) 337-6409 COSPRINGSKWANZAA.ORG
Our MIssion: To celebrate black history by raising awareness about exceptional role models in the black community, through acting , dance and creative expression.
Our Mission: To celebrate the best and highest values of the history, culture, philosophy, and achievements of people of African descent
FB.COM/ROCKYMOUNTAINOMEGAS
Our MIssion: To raising money and give back to the Colorado Springs community througg showcasing the best artists and creatives around.
LITERACY FESTIVAL BLACK EDUCATORS NETWORK Our Mission: To problem-solve issues related to minorities and education.
COLORADO SPRINGS CITYWIDE KWANZAA CELEBRATION
EDUCATING CHILDREN OF COLOR (719) 640-6633 EDUCATINGCHILDRENOFCOLOR.ORG
Our Mission: To use education to dismantle the cradle-to-prison pipeline for children of color and children in poverty.
COMMUNITY RESOURCE DAY
EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH (719) 999-5484
Our Mission: To connect and celebrate neighbors in our community with much needed resources. From mobile health screenings and food resources to local businesses, artists and public organizations.
VIEW MORE EVENTS AT MYBLACKCOLORADO.COM/EVENTS
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY
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CIVIC & SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS COLORADO SPRINGS
FOUNDATION EL POMARS'S EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM
EL POMAR FOUNDATION 10 LAKE CIRCLE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80906 719.633.7733 | ELPOMAR.ORG
Our goal is to enhance, encourage, and promote the current and future well-being of the people of Colorado. Established in 1937, El Pomar's mission is based on the values of Julie and Spencer Penrose.
Theo Gregory began working at the El Pomar Foundation in 1998. He
currently oversees community outreach programs as a senior vice president. The Foundation’s current outreach efforts focus on youth and educational programs; ethnic minorities; emerging leaders, and amateur sports. The El Pomar emerging leaders program—a collaborative effort with El Pomar and the Center for Nonprofit Excellence-- was established in 2001 to help develop the untapped wealth of diverse leadership potential within southern Colorado. The program identifies and encourages emerging ethnic minority leaders to embrace service through broad-based community involvement and civic engagement. It offers community leadership development training and outreach activities, while also providing scholarships for selected individuals who take part in these leadership programs.
In 2006, as an extension of the Emerging Leaders Program, El Pomar
established the Milton E. Proby Cultural Heritage Room at Penrose House. The room is dedicated to preserving and documenting the contributions of African-American, Asian, Hispanic/Latino and Native American individuals from Southern Colorado. Each year a different ethnic minority leader is honored.
- information from the El Pomar Foundation | ElPomar.org
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
THEO GREGORY EMERGING LEADERS PARTICIPANTS
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PATRICIA CAMERON
CIVIC & SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS COLORADO SPRINGS
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE THE COLORADO SPRINGS BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (719) 487-9176 | CSBLACKCHAMBER.COM
Established in 1992 by Retired Colonel James M. Stewart of the United States Air Force. The Colorado Springs Black Chamber of Commerce (CSBCC) seeks to address the needs of small businesses. CSBCC promotes and empowers minority business owners by expanding development and entrepreneurship throughout the Pikes Peak region. Through our strategic partnerships, we provide the tools, support, and education that nurtures and cultivates innovation and economic sustainability. The Chamber currently has 54 members; we are seeking to double our membership over the next year by continuing our involvement in the Colorado Springs business community and developing strategic partnerships with organizations that have similar missions and visions for minority businesses and entrepreneurs.
COLORADO SPRINGS BLACK BUSINESS NETWORK FB.COM/CSBLACKBIZ
2018 saw the launch of the Colorado Springs Black Business and Networking group. Thier focus is to create an environment. The group encourages unity and service by emphasizing how giving back to the community. It believes this is integral to the business community and our professional lives. Rodney Gullatte Jr. says , "starting the Colorado Springs Black Business Network was the scariest endeavor of my life", but he’s out to fix a problem he doesn’t think would get solved otherwise. “I’ve met black business owners that have said, ‘I feel confident when I’m sending emails for business or when I’m talking on the phone, but when I meet these people in person, i feel like they don’t take me seriously,’” says Gullette. “That’s unacceptable. we are here to help black businesses not feel that way.” - information from Andrea Guzman of the Gazette
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PATRICIA CAMERON
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CIVIC & SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS COLORADO SPRINGS
BEAUTY PAGEANT MY AFRICAN AMERICAN MISS Regina Guy-English | Mrs El Paso County 2019 "I started my pageant system to create a space for young black women to thrive in, and to use their crowns as a more prominent platform. Empowered women will empower women. As these young ladies succeed and learn how to be themselves, their self-esteem, boldness, and confidence grow. The Colorado America Pageant pushed me to embrace our culture like never before, to give us hope and inspiration, and the show us that the sport of pageantry is a sport that we can compete in while representing who we are with grace, class, and integrity.
REGINA ENGLISH (719) 388-3695 | FB.COM/YESMAAMYOU INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR What do you think are the greatest needs for young black women?
community. We have to guard our energy and be mindful of what we allow people to deposit into our spirit because it sets the tone.
#1 have a strong prayer life first and foremost. I believe that prayer is essential. I am firm in my faith and I pray every day and prayer changes things.
#4 Use your voice to advocate for the change that they would like to see in your community. Do not let anyone mute your voice. A lot of people #2 Don't let anyone dismiss me before they even get else write your story, you write to know me personally. When your own story. My non-profit is I walk in a room with a pair of called Be You. My logo translates skinny jeans and stilettos, some from a book to a crown which people get offended and insecure means be authentically who you and push me away. I used to tell are and tell your own story and myself, and I don't fit in, I'm not know that you're royalty. Nobody going to say anything. But when has to say to you that you're I began to create my own space royalty, especially when you know to advocate for the change that I that you're a child of the king . wanted to see, that's when I was able to really empower others to #3 Gravitate to positive do the same thing. When you energy and find a strong mentor create your space, nobody gets that can give you direction, a strong to tell you that you don't fit. It’s woman that they can model after. your space and you’ve created it. A lot of youth and young women #5 Your voice truly look to me as a mentor; however, I have a mentor myself who is Dr. matters. All of us have things that Regina Lewis. The things that we need to be heard about. It's she pours into me, I'm able to essential for us to be present as a pour into the youth. She is one of black community because when our strong black women in this you are not present, you lose your ability to impact your community. 14
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PATRICIA CAMERON
CIVIC & SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS COLORADO SPRINGS
DAUGHTERS OF DESTINY | DANCE MINISTRY ASHANTE HOPKINS | (720) 940-5034 | AURORA, CO A non-profit dance ministry founded in 2016. This christian based ministry consists of over a dozen young ladies from ages 7 to 16. These girls, like many others struggle with absent parents, peer pressure at school, and trying to fit in. I teach my girls to always lean on the strength of the Lord. Because where we are weak, he is made strong in us. Dancing has not only been something the girls have grown to love, but it is their lifestyle! They are taught that they don’t go out to “perform” but they go out to minister the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
TALKING TREES: ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE ROSENNA BAKARI | (719) 203-9178 TALKINGTREESSURVIVORS.COM | COLORADO SPRINGS, CO "I think it's vital that survivors live openly. Living openly means that you drop the secret, but you are free to do it in your own time and your way because when you've been living with it for 20 - 40 years the way that you have, it's hard to change those habits. When you've ben carrying a secret, for so long, many parts of your life have been slightly tweaked or contorted to where you don't even realize it. It can affect healthy intimacy with the ones that you love, or how you engage with your friends. Once you let go, you can breathe and let your guard down a little bit more and enjoy life." -Rosenna Bakari
WEIGH OUT MINISTRIES | LIFE SKILLS & MENTORING CHAUNCEY LABRIE | WEIGHOUTMINISTRIES.ORG / COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
We started it because we saw that there was a disconnect in amongst community members in our
society. We wanted to give people a sense of hope, to provide people authentic and genuine opportunities for a relationship, and to bridge the gap between our school systems and community members. We started Weigh Out Ministries for the sole purpose of building authentic relationships amongst our community. We're connecting through our man's man study group and life skills group. On Thursdays, we're connecting with with young men through our basketball fellowship, providing a safe alternative to the streets.
ENTREPRENUERSHIP NATION | BUSINESS DEVELOPEMENT WILLIAMS PHILLIPS | (719) 219-6938 | THEENTREPRENEURNATION.COM 506 E. MORENO AVENUE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903
The mission of Entrepreneur Nation is to provide training and
education in entrepreneurial thinking and to provide supportive services for entrepreneurial objectives for “under-served and under-utilized populations.”
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PATRICIA CAMERON
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COMMUNITY INFLUENCERS COLORADO SPRINGS
REPRESENTATIVE
TONY EXUM SR.
REPRESNTATIVE FORHOUSE DISTRICT 17
TONY EXUM SR. TONYEXUM.COM A Community Servant For Over 40 Years. As a retired Battalion Chief of the Colorado Springs Fire Department, Tony dedicated his life to making our community safer. Now as our state representative, Tony has continued to serve with passion and commitment. fighting for families to earn higher wages, receive quality healthcare, and give their kids a better education. Going forward, Tony believes that in the wealthiest nation in the world, working families shouldn’t have to struggle. It’s time for a Colorado that’s good for the many. INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR How did you get involved? It really came about through prayer and encouragement from friends. God always was a few steps ahead of me getting my name out there. What kind of legacy do you want to leave in this community? I want people to know that with God's help and encouragement from family and friends, you can do anything you put your mind to. I had a lot of naysayers as I was growing up. People were saying that because I was black that I was not going to be able to compete with everyone else. I didn't let that stop me, and I was very competitive. If you tell me that I cant do something just because of the color of my skin. I'm going to try that much harder to prove you wrong. That's was not the healthiest way to go about things, but 16
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that's how I did things. I wasn’t going to let anybody tell me what I can’t do, based on my skin color. What are some tips for people to get involved in their community? The best starting point is searching yourself and finding out what your passions are and then thinking about people close to you and how you can impact their lives through what you are passionate about. I'm one of eleven children, and I all always thought that you need to be better for somebody else. It's part of my DNA to help other people whenever I can. There’re still opportunities to help other folks. We need role models. Role models aren't just people that show you, but are people who value you enough to take a particular interest in helping you. They are going to hold you accountable in being a good citizen.
What helped me was having some positive role models. I didn't have a relationship with my dad or my stepdad. I think God placed key men in my life to give me direction, guidance, and encouragement. What do you think the next generation needs to hear? Take responsibility for the generation behind you; Not just of the generation that you’re in. It doesn't have to be just family. Help the community.
"Take responsibility to be better."
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER CYNTHIA CAMBLE
COMMUNITY INFLUENCERS COLORADO SPRINGS
GAINING MOMENTUM DR. STEPHANY ROSE INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR What is your plan since the election season is over? I plan to continue serving our community. An elected office is just one pathway of doing that. Ever since my arrival to Colorado Springs, I’ve promoted causes that were important to me. There are amazing people in office, as well as initiatives that are before us that are transforming Colorado Springs. There's a lot of great things that will continue to come out of that. My influence and work for others have not stopped just because I was not elected. Where are you headed from here? I am continuing to do the work that was before me. I am just trying to become more diverse and inclusive here in Colorado Springs, as well as throughout the state. What are some key things you learned throughout this process? There is so much work to do, with very few of us seeing the depth and complexity of the issues that are facing us. Affordable housing and opioid addictions are concerns that still need to be adddress. We need more people to be involved. It's not just about electoral politics. We need to have younger voices on TV, sitting on boards, and at the city level. One of the things that I learned the most is that everybody might talk about what needs to happen, but very few people want to get out and do the work to make it happen. What's the solution? Championing people in the community who are stepping up and taking charge. Asia Sanders saw herself as a student, a mother, and a volunteer for somebody's campaign but there was a gap in her house district, and she decided to run. Even though it was scary, she dared to step out in faith to do it. We need to encourage and amplify those who are taking steps to do the work, so others can find the courage themselves to get involved. Whatever area that interest them, whether that's in the arts or whether that's in business. What Rodney Gullatte is doing for entrepreneurship and businesses, We need that, and we need to support one another. I think this will help bring more people into the conversation to amplify their voices.
DR. STEPHANY ROSE STEPHANYROSEFORCONGRESS.COM Born on Chicago’s Southside in 1978, her family and her faith community played important roles in the formation of her core beliefs. Her day-to-day life centers upon the charge to “do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God” (Micah 6:8.) One result of this is her firm belief that what we really need in government are people willing to sacrifice and treat others right, and with respect.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER CYNTHIA CAMBLE
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BROTHER JEFF'S PICKS RECOMMENDATIONS
BROTHER JEFFS CULTURAL CENTER 2836 WELTON ST, DENVER, CO 80205 (303) 297-0823 | BROTHERJEFF.COM
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 award-winning monthly publication 5 Points News.
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR 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 Hip-Hop 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.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
BLACK AMERICAN WEST MUSEUM _ HERITAGE CENTER 3091 CALIFORNIA ST. DENVER, CO 80205 | (720) 242-7428 | BAWMHC.ORG Since its founding in 1971, the Black American West Museum and Heritage Center has made history come alive for scores of visitors. Maintaining the tradition of carefully preserved artifacts and hands-on educational programs requires the support of many contributors. Museum membership offers you the exclusive opportunity to be part of this tradition.
BLAIR-CALDWELL AFRICAN AMERICAN RESEARCH LIBRARY 2401 WELTON ST. DENVER, CO 80205 | (720) 865-2401 | HISTORY.DENVERLIBRARY.ORG/BLAIR This is a museum and research library that preserves and showcases the many contributions African Americans made to Colorado and the West.
CLEO PARKER ROBINSON DANCE 119 PARK AVE W, DENVER, CO 80205 | (303) 295-1759 | CLEOPARKERDANCE.ORG Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Studio (CPRD) influences the universal language of dance by honoring African American heritage. Through dance, we explore the human condition, and offer a transformative experience through physical movement. CPRD is a cultural ambassador that infuses vitality, innovation, and education in every community they touch; around the corner and around the globe.
DR. JUSTINA LAURENA FORD | PEDIATRIC MEDICINE BORN: JANUARY 22, 1871, KNOXVILLE, IL - DIED: OCTOBER 14, 1952, DENVER, CO Dr. Justina Laurena Ford challenged and overcame gender and racial barriers in her medical career Dr. Justina Laurena Ford became the first African American woman recognized as a licensed physician that practiced in Colorado. Ford challenged and overcame gender and racial barriers in her medical career. Just two years before her death, 1950, she was still the only black woman physician in Colorado. Ford was quoted saying “when all the fears, hate, and even some death is over, we will really be brothers as God intended us to in this land. This I believe. For this I have worked all my life.”
ED DWIGHT | NASA PILOT & FINE ARTS SCULPTOR ED DWIGHT STUDIOS, INC. | 3824 DAHLIA STREET DENVER, COLORADO 80207 | (303) 329-9040 | EDDWIGHT.COM Ed was chosen as the first African American Nasa pilot in the 1960s. Ed Dwight, a man whose resume reads: former Air Force Test Pilot, America’s First African American Astronaut Candidate, IBM Computer Systems Engineer, Aviation Consultant, Restaurateur, Real Estate Developer and Construction Entrepreneur; best described as a true renaissance man. Dwight succeeded in all these varied careers. However, for the last 40 years, Ed has focused his direction on the Fine Arts. The Arts included are gallery paintings & sculptures, large-scale memorials, and public art projects. Dwight’s art career began in 1978. After attaining his MFA in sculptures, from the University of Denver, Dwight became a prolific and insightful sculpture in America.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
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BUSINESS GROWTH COLORADO SPRINGS
DEVELOPMENT THE THRIVE NETWORKS
THE THRIVE NETWORKS 225 N WEBER ST. COLORADO SPRING, CO 80903 719-884-6178 THETHRIVENETWORKS.ORG
In 2015, the Thrive Network was established out of the necessity for community revitalization and safety. With growing impoverishment, THRIVE uses Entrepreneurship as an economic and community development tool to restore prosperity to at-risk communities. We equip entrepreneurs to thrive by helping them start their businesses and uplifting their surrounding communities. We take entrepreneurs through a oneyear intensive program that provides them with hands-on EDUCATION, MENTORSHIP, NETWORKING and SCHOLARSHIP opportunities. The Thrive Program is designed to help entrepreneurs through struggles that arise in the first years of business ownership, ensuring longevity and success.
TAJ STOKES CO-FOUNDER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Taj Stokes is a Financial Advisor, Graduate of Charis Bible College, Head Pastor of Passion City Church, member of Business Network International, and former Board of Director for Shasta Lake Chamber of Commerce. Fun fact about Taj: He has jumped out of a moving vehicle and a burning vehicle.
EDUCATORS & MENTORS In addition to classroom instruction THRIVE provides technical advisors, personal coaching, and industry mentors. All enrolled, and graduate entrepreneurs have access to THRIVE’s network of professionals for support, partnerships and discounted services for business needs. STUDENTS THRIVE enrolls those in all stages of business development. People looking to start or build a business in the southeast side of Colorado Springs OR current entrepreneurs looking to strengthen and grow their already established businesses. This course is designed to positively impact your business up front, so you have the resources to commit in paying it forward to help an entrepreneur in the following class.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SYLVIA LAMB
BUSINESS GROWTH COLORADO SPRINGS
NETWORKING DREAM AGAIN, LLC.
relationship. It's just a point of contact. How do you networking?
build
momentum
in
Being true to your word. Being consistent is very important to me. When I shake your hand, I believe whatever we talked about is going to happen. Just do what you say. Don't hold grudges, carry very short accounts of people. Don't let it derail or discourage you or think that everyone was that way because one person was unreliable. Go into a relationship thinking the best about people. Believe they want to grow with you. Be allies. Let the other person be the hero of the conversation, celebrate their successes.
FRANK SINCLAIR BUSINESS CONSULTANT
(719) 460-2453 FB.COM/ DREAMAGAINLLC "Ever thought, I could really use some help navigating the muddy waters of business? Coaching is ridiculously expensive and rarely have true measurements. Dream Again is the answer!! We offer coaching that is about you and for you. It guides you through your story to uncover your destiny. And the sliding scale payment system prevents more discouragement from payment distress." - Frank Sinclair
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR What are 3 tips t to growing your network? First of all, you got to show up. If you're going to network and be part of networking, you're going to have to find ways to show up were networking is happening and start meeting people. The second part is that your attitude has to be right. You have to be accepting of people and ready to engage in positive conversations. The third thing is that you have to follow up. You have to initiate those followup. The initial meeting is not the
Do you think networking is essential to growing your business?
growth that Colorado has ever had. To be alive and to be a part of that is way beyond any expectations I ever had, so I want to nurture it. What would you say to someone who is working full-time, married with a family and it's tough for them to show up to networking events? Networking is very difficult. If you're not in the places where networking happens, it's difficult to do. You need to be disciplined and able to manage your schedule. You don't have to spend a lot of time as I do in networking. But you do need a plan. If you're genuine and yourself and a person of integrity and a person that does what they say they're going to do, you don't have to meet a lot of people, maybe begin with one event and find one that is going to add value to what you do.
Absolutely, even corporations have networks. It keeps the momentum moving forward. I think if a person can grow their business to the point where they can allocate resources to a very talented networking personal development person, they get an opportunity to move ahead. For example, we have multiple people in our roofing business that are dedicated to doing nothing but networking and development work. They get a salary, and they get kicks for the business that they bring in. I know that's not possible for most small businesses out of the gate, but that's what we had a vision of when we started this business. If you can't or don't have those kinds of resources, unfortunately, there's no way around doing it yourself. We naturally prioritize people over a lot of other things. When we understand that, we know the value that networking has in everything we do. People make a lot of decisions based on relationships, not just the quality of business. People spend a lot of resources and time and strategic planning to run their business. That's good. But we have to prioritize people we have to put them first and foremost. I want it to be known that I love people. I do. I am so privileged to be in the greatest business environment in the history of the state. Right now is the most significant opportunity for business
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SYLVIA LAMB
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CREATIVES
COLORADO SPRINGS
POETRY 719'S | NEW FACES COLORADO SPRINGS, CO FB.COM/POETRY719 ABOUT US
Poetry
719
supports
the
freedom
of self-expression through the spoken and written word. They strive to network with local
and
neighboring
communities
to
provide a forum wherein more diverse voices can
be
heard,
validated,
and
celebrated.
Phillip Curtis founded the organization.
Together with Christopher Beasley and Ashley Cornelius, they sponsor enriching open mic events that reflect the experiences of the diverse community that surrounds them.
MICHAEL FERGUSON
I write and perform poetry pieces as a coping mechanism to deal with black people getting shot by cops. My wife saw that it bothered me a lot and suggested I create an outlet. I sat down to write out my out my feelings. It was very cathartic. I’ve been writing poetry ever since. The poetry community knows me by the alias, SkillZilla. I got that name from playing combat video games like Street Fighter and Soul Caliber. There is a large group of gamers in Colorado which I have been a part of since I was sixteen. I still play to this day. I’m a huge nerd about it.
LINDSAY MARONEY
I started attending open mic events when I first moved to Colorado about five years ago. I was blown away by the talent and passion the artists exhibited. When you feel that kind of energy, you want to be a part of it. I was drawn in and decided to write a poem or two of my own. And so, began my poetic journey. For me, poetry is a holistic, healing, mechanism. I was diagnosed with Lupus about 12 years ago. It is a substantial focal point in my life and sometimes a difficult hurdle to overcome when I’m not feeling well. So, I use poetry to express my feelings and to spread awareness.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
CREATIVES
COLORADO SPRINGS
POETRY 719'S | NEW FACES
ANGELO
I started performing poetry because I was looking for a way to transmute all the dark and painful energy I was emitting. I wanted to turn it into something beautiful and relatable. I’d just gone through a pretty bad breakup and wanted to be constructive even while grieving. This decision lead me to dive into the arts more. Before this dark time in my life, I’d just written for fun or to pass the time. I decided to take a poetry workshop, and things took off from there. I have found that it is both healing and comforting when people can relate to your pain.
DOMINIQUE POLLARD
I’m originally from Virginia where racism is rampant and overt. Like so many other people of color, I have been a victim of racism and discrimination more times than I can count. Therefore, my poetry aims to reach anyone who will listen to poems about the Black experience in America. I want to evoke some emotion within my listeners to keep this topic relevant until it brings about a positive change. I wrote a book called Closed Mind Open Heart: And All That Dangles In Between. It’s a collection of poems which depict my journey from pessimism to a life I now lead with joy. The book is available on Amazon.
LAMYRA MCGEE
My mother is a poet. She writes children’s poems. I grew up reading and writing poetry as well. I like writing poems written for and about the Black community, topics relevant to the LGBTQ community, and my experiences as a soldier in the military. I try to emphasize issues which people may not be aware of. A fun fact about myself is that I’m a full-fledged, passionate poet. When I’m not writing or performing, I’m studying to earn my master’s degree in psychology.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
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CREATIVES
COLORADO SPRINGS
PHOTOGRAPHY I want to make legendary photos that you can pass down through generations. -Jeanette Falu-Bishop
JEANETTTE FALU-BISHOP COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 7192717931 | FALUBISHOP.COM
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR PHOTO BY TONY GRAHAM
I want to be able to capture
a genuine photo. I want to be able to empower women and allow them to feel beautiful, to exists in photographs
PHOTO BY TONY GRAHAM
because our children are watching. If we don’t feel empowered and confident, our children won’t either. Many of my shoots have been inspired by Pelinda. She is from Kenya. She is a beautiful person inside and out and she is strong, her strength comes from within. I like to bring that out in her portraits. When I take photos, I try to find something that is interesting. Photos change the way you see yourself. I want to make legendary photos that you can pass down through generations. Photos that you can be proud of.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
CREATIVES
CLOTHING DESIGNER I began sewing for our mime ministry because we did not have robes, and could not afford to let someone else make them. I decided to make our robes. We selected a pattern, material, and accessories and began to work. I stayed up for hours to get them all completed for a Fall Recital (15 robes in 3 days). I did not go to school to be a tailor or a designer, and I am an educator by degree. I started with a simple pattern, something I could follow easily (i.e., Simplicity, Butterrick, Sewing made Easy, etc.) the first sewing machine I bought cost me $99, and I taught myself how to alter patterns. I am in the process of teaching myself how to make my own patterns for ideas that I have. I am self-taught, and I worked hard to master this craft. I also do alterations. This is time-consuming, so I am in the process of being able to do this full time because it is what I love. All of my garments are custom made. I do
not create in bulk unless it is for a group. Every piece I create is for a specific person, or event and God shows me what to do with their garment. All of the garments on my website and were designed for me, except for one piece. My job is to create something for my customer that no one else has, so they stand out in a crowd. Most of my clients operate in the religious sector, so the way I approach things may be a little different. I produce based on colors; however, colors in the fashion world and spiritual world have slightly different meanings. I have other clients, but being a Gospel Mime, my specialties are ministerial robes and liturgical dance garments. With that being said, there are different types of garments for a priest, ministers of dance, prophets, apostles, and clergy.
DR. YVONNE HENDERSON CLOTHING DESIGNER D.I.V.A. DESIGNS, LLC (720) 451-2540 DIVAMINISTRIES.ORG
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
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CREATIVES DENVER
PAPER ART INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
What made you want to start your paper art business? I had a decoration dilemma, my husband and I had bought a house that was built in the 80s and it had big walls. It had lofted ceilings and I wanted to put African-American art up that nobody else had, but we didn't have the money to be paying the thousands and thousands of dollars to get those pieces. So I started creating my own thing. When did you decide to make your art public? Right away. I had started to do some stuff for the house, and I had some friends that I shared some of the pictures with. They liked it and asked if I was selling it? I told them "No", and that It was for my house. One said, “oh my God. No, you should sell it�. Over time, people started requesting and purchasing my art. My mom belongs to several organizations, and she would ask me to create pieces for events, gathering, or fundraisers or raffles. After a couple of years making paper art, I wanted to do an exhibit to show my community the art I've been creating. With some help, I was able to set up a rotating gallery at a local library and also a few places around town. It's been a fun experience. How has your paper art impacted you on a personal level? This art has helped me heal through some of my difficulties. My dad was a creative person. He used to find things around the house to turn into art, sketching on the glass, making wire sculptures. He just had a creative spirit. When he died, I was grieving, and one of the things that helped me through it and helped me remember my dad was doing paper art. It helped me to process him being gone and missing him. It was very cathartic
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LIA-NELSON JAMES SCRAP PAPER ARTIST
LITTLE BROWN SKIN GIRLS DENVER, CO
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
GRAPHIC DESIGN CREATIVES
CREATIVES
COLORADO SPRINGS
C A R T O O N S TDOUBLE R ISTANDARD P
ANGELINA GRINAN ETSY.COM/SHOP/ANGELINANOTANGIE INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR After I had my twins, I painted a mural for their playroom. I haven’t drawn since grade school, so I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. Once it was finished, I knew I needed to keep drawing because I enjoyed it so much. I joined a few craft groups on Facebook, and a lot of ladies were commenting on how there isn’t enough diversity in SVG art. They also talked about how to use thier Cricut cutting machines. So, after watching a ton of YouTube tutorials, I learned how to convert my drawings to SVG, files, so people can print and cut them. Where do you see yourself headed? Honestly, I’m not sure where it’s heading, but I love to draw. I’m currently getting into making comic strips based on the cute things my girls do, and It brings me a lot of joy.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER KIM MULLETT
VENUES
COLORADO SPRINGS
THE SOCIAL
3506 NORTH ACADEMY BLVD. COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80915 | 719-597-9884 | THESOCIAL719.COM The Social boasts beautiful industrial character and functional interiors that can be uniquely customized by clients. You can enjoy glamorous interiors while taking advantage of a functional DJ booth, wireless microphones, in-house keyboard, stage and full lighting system. Our state-of-the-art A/V system is available in-house and is operated by attentive technicians dedicated to executing your vision.
A lavish center floor four-tiered VIP club seating section is accompanied by a four-sectioned private VIP seating lounge with plush onyx crocodile seating. Venture up one flight to a split level mezzanine overlooking the main stage; accompanied by an outdoor patio to enjoy a beautifully furnished, expansive outdoor roof with stunning open-air views of the city looking to Pikes Peak.
THE GALLERY BELOW 718-B NORTH WEBER STREET, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903 | 719-301-9903 | THEGALLERYBELOW.COM
Kristina Wright is the owner of The Social, The
Gallery Below and the award-winning Pen & Needles Tattoo shop in Colorado Springs. Kristina also serves on the board of the Black Advisory Council for the El Pomar Foundation and won the "woman of influence" award in 2018. She is an army veteran and cares deeply about her community.
KRISTINA WRIGHT EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY
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ENTERTAINERS COLORADO SPRINGS
THE REMINDERS
BIG SAMIR & ASIA BLACK THEREMINDERSMUSIC.COM The reminders are a reggaae fusion group made up of Big Samir & Asia Black. They have been performing artist and a a couple for over a decade. They have released 2 albums and have toured all around the world. They are one of the premier music groups out of Colorado Springs. INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
Questions for Big Samir How did you get into the music business?
Before we met, Asia was more of a
spoken word artist, and I was I was already in a well-established band here in Colorado Springs. By the time Asia and I got together, we fed off each others energy, and we just kept creating. It was never the plan to be the supergroup couple.
It just kind of came together.
What are some exciting moments in your journey so far?
Even though we are married and
making music together, we're not the only ones raising children and still pursuing their dreams. We're not the only couple that works together. When we get to share our experiences with the world through our music and see people connect and relate to it, it inspires us to keep on creating. People connect through our music, they also connect with our family, our values and the way we carry ourselves. It's been a great journey so far. of my friends started having children after.
they would call me for advice about raising kids,
community?
relationships and fatherhood.
Initially, we were doing a lot of work
counseling men all the time. Men don't generally
in schools with anti-bullying assemblies in
speak up when they need help or when they
Colorado Springs. A lot of kids commit suicide
need advice. I wanted to create a platform to help
here, more than in other places. So we wanted
men feel comfortable talking about these issues.
to raise awareness and help these kids through
tough situations in their lives, trying to raise
with the men that I look up to and that have helped
their self esteem.
I found myself
So I decided to have these conversations
That opportunity led us
me and inspired me. I had them share their stories,
to partner with the library district here to do
hoping that it might inspire or help somebody
some writing workshops and help people learn
out. Everybody needs healing, everybody needs
how to channel that energy into creativity. I
assistance, and sometimes people are afraid to
also started a podcast about fatherhood.
ask. I'm just trying to do my part to better my
I
started this parenting podcast because a lot
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So
In what ways are you involved in your local
MYBLACKCOLORADO
community.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
Are your kids involved in the family business? We don't take them all the time when we perform or travel. We take them when it's going to work out. For example, if we're touring in the summertime and they're out of school and it's going to be a comfortable set up for them, than absolutely, they should come along for the ride. We miss our children when we travel, so we try to find ways to stay connected. When we tour, it's not easy. People think it's a glamorous life, the rock star life, but it's a lot of late nights early mornings, you don't eat the proper food sometimes because your always on the go. On one tour, we were away from our kids for almost 2 weeks, but towards the end of the tour, while we were in California, they joined us, and we were able to go to Disneyland as a family and have fun. What are some of the messages that you are trying to get across in your music? We try to unite people through the power of music because music is one place where it's not about politics. It's not about your race. It's not about your background. A lot of times you go to the concert and people come from everywhere, and even though we may not have had something in common before we got there , that one artist, that one song connects us. That's the power of music. We express whatever we go through in our daily lives, whether it be struggles or joy, expressing that honestly from the heart is what we are about. We're all one people on this planet. We're all one people with a heart beat. It doesn't matter if you're the wealthiest person on earth, you will still have some struggles. So we try just to try to touch a lot of these different points that everybody goes through every day.
"When we get to share our experiences with the world through our music and see people connect and relate to it, it
"It was never the plan to be a supergroup couple. It just kind of came together" What are some tips for creatives who want to excel at their craft? #1 Don't wait for anybody or anything. Don't wait to become famous. Don't wait to have money. A lot of times people are waiting for something to happen to them. There's no time to waste, the time is now. I say go for it. Don't wait for the New Year's resolution. #2 Keeps getting better. With consistency, you're going to get better. If you're a videographer, get better at shooting videos. If you're a photographer keep taking pictures. If you're a writer, keep writing. Dont wait will you find inspiration, write until you are inspired. Just perfect your craft. When that opportunity comes to you, you want to be prepared, and you want to be your best, you don't want to still be a work in progress. Tell me about the upcoming project. We've had two albums out already. This latest project took a while for us becausee we've been touring, raising our children and just really putting our family first and not letting anything come between that. Our children are getting older. We help them with thier schoolwork and different things. We are hands-on parents. We're not part-time parents. we are in here full-time. I just dropped the kids off at school. We've learned a lot from the last album till now. We've learned a lot from traveling more and just pouring our hearts into the songs that we've written. We went to Chicago a few times to work with a producer out there and recorded 3 songs, but a lot of the songs were created from scratch. Asia played the guitar. She played a couple of riffs, we wrote the songs. I played either the Djembe or the Cajon drum, and we just let it flow. It feels great to be able to create something from nothing, this is really what this album is about. Us showing our growth. We had a lot of fun just really expressing ourselves honestly, and hope for people enjoy it.
inspires us to keep on creating"
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INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
ROBERT HOUSTON | BLACK PEGASUS | BKGMUSIC.COM
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.”
I knew after the first time I heard you perform, that you are an exceptional lyricist. What advice would you offer a young artist who wants to refine their writing skills? The main thing is that you need to write all the time. The more you write, the better you get. You should also listen to and study great lyricists. It’s just like how Kobe developed his fadeaway jumper from watching Jordan. Watch and learn from the greats and then utilize the knowledge you gain to craft your signature way of doing things. You should also be able to recognize dope lyrics quickly and zero in on that energy. When I was coming up, I listened to Jay-Z, Nas, Eminem, and Luda. When you’re listening to top-tier stuff like that, it rubs off on you and motivates you to be better.
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How do you keep the momentum going in an industry that is constantly changing? I keep creative people around me. My friends, those I collaborate with and work with are all creative people. If you’re a creative person, it’s always good to surround yourself with people of likemind. You need people with your same drive and passion for creating, to bounce ideas off of and try new approaches. A lot of work goes into producing one song. A team of people with different skillsets is essential to makign a good song. So, I surround myself with producers, engineers, other artists and singers to keep my sound fresh and relevant. I’m a grown-ass 38-year old man. I don’t chill with twenty-year old’s because I don’t want to rap in autotune. At the end of the day, to each his own. You must be comfortable with what you do. If you happen to have young energy around you, and they’re giving suggestions about how to add on to what you’re already doing, that’s cool. But I will never produce a track with a sound that I don’t personally like or agree with, trying to be something I’m not.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
ENTERTAINERS COLORADO SPRINGS
What are some tips and tricks you’ve learned over the years to put on an impressive live performance? First, you should watch other good performers like KRS1 or Tech 9. Second, learn how to project your voice so you can be heard over your music and loud audiences. I learned this was necessary from battle rapping very early in the game. People need to hear your punchlines for you to win the battle. They tell you not to cuff the mic, but you can cuff the mic and still sound good. You need to know your voice and how to project it to connect with the audience. Always remember your voice is the main instrument. Third, don’t rap over your vocals. You want the crowd to hear and feel your music. That’s why they came to see you perform live! Fourth, have someone in your corner who you trust to give you real, constructive, advice. Often, times, I see younger artists jump on stage to perform, but they can’t be heard, or they run out of breath from all the jumping around. Afterward, one of their friends will say “You just killed it!” when they didn’t. So, make sure you aren’t just hanging around fans or people who will always tell you what you want to hear. If you’re performing live and the sound system is terrible, should you perform acapella or still try to perform on the bad sound system? Most artists won’t perform acapella because most artists aren’t saying anything. If you’re going to do acapella, you need to either have a lot of punch lines or a very potent message. It’s like a poetry slam. Most rappers do not have the same stage presence a poet does. I don’t need to hear your bull in acapella. It’s more about the sound of the music—not the lyrics. So, if the sound system is terrible, and you don’t have acapella-worthy content, make a backup track that has your vocals pre-recorded and do the best you can. What have negotiation?
you
learned
about
contract
It’s a hustle for sure. At the end of the day you should know your value, so you know the lowest payment you’re willing to accept for your artistry. When I was starting in the game, I did shows for cheap and for free. You can’t charge people if you have no value, because your level of popularity is ultimately what drives ticket sales. I tell cats to try to be the opening performance for big headliners or national shows. If you can achieve that, it will get your people excited, help to establish a fan base and eventually drive your ticket sales. Once you’ve opened for a national show, you’re more likely to be successful in a smaller, local show at a bar somewhere. Once you sell 100 tickets, you can start turning a profit. You can then use that money to put on more shows. Find a promoter to help you market yourself and pick the location(s).
Don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re going to make a lot of money just for opening for more prominent artists. That’s ridiculous. Remember, the opening act is there to fill time, but you can use time fillers to your advantage and gain exposure. At this point in my career, I throw my own shows because I will make more money on the backend than any deal a promoter would give me because I understand my value. Which artists in Colorado Springs do you feel are on your level concerning artistry and lyrics? There’s a lot of dope music out here, but there is one Hip-Hop group that stands out to me. They are a husband and wife duo, and they are epic when it comes to performing. They are talented and have a lot of different things to offer. I think they are slept on. But, I think they’re on the same level as the Black-Eyed Peas, Lauryn Hill, and Mos Def. They should be touring the world, selling a million records. That’s how highly I think of them. There are numerous other artists in Colorado Springs that have emerged from this new wave of mumble rap to the old school boom-baphip-hop. I think there’s probably a ton of talented artists across the nation. The question is, who’s going to break through? It’s kind of like the lotto; you don't know who is going to win.
"You need to know your voice and how to project your it, to connect with the audience. Always remember your voice is the main instrument."
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ENTERTAINERS
COMEDIAN INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR What top three tips would you offer to young comedians who are just starting?
RION EVANS
COMEDIAN
Be selective about what advice you listen to. Always be wary of somebody who tells you “you need to listen to me.” The fact remains that you’re on the stage by yourself. Listening to others’ opinion is good, but you don’t have to listen to anything. Always remain humble. If you don’t, something or someone else will humble you. Comedy is an unforgiving business. People may “boo” you right there on the spot, and not care! They will walk by you while you’re teared up in the corner. So, you must realize you are very small; even when you’re big, you’re still small. Know that you’re nobody in this business until you can teach the next. What are some challenges you face as a Black comedian?
(802) 359-7466 | RIONEVANS.COM 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.
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There are challenges in life, period. And this is my life. I haven’t been sprayed with water hoses while performing or anything like that. But, it’s always hard on a Black comedian. White comedians never have to come to places like Compton to perform to get their names on the map. But I would have to go to their world to gain exposure and to be considered. That is a challenge. I live in Denver and every room I walk in, I find that I’m the [only] Black guy. This can be exciting and work to my advantage because I’m the only person that can bring them my brand of talent, style, and unique viewpoint.
"always remain humble. If you don’t, something or someone else will humble you."
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
ENTERTAINERS COLORADO SPRINGS
TONY EXUM JR SAXOPHONIST | TONYEXUMJR.COM Tony Exum Junior is a wonderfully talented Jazz musician whose distinctive saxophone style has regaled audiences for twenty years. Gifted a saxophone at age eleven, Exum soon developed a love for the instrument’s relaxing, sultry, sound. “I knew I would be a musician of some sort. The saxophone intrigued me and quickly became the way my heart wanted to express itself musically.” Exum attended the renowned Lamont School of Music where he earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. In his developing years, Exum performed in stage plays, and as a side-man in various shows across Colorado. He quickly became a highly sought musician, performing more than 100 shows per year. Tony credits his success to the “greats” with whom he’s had the pleasure of sharing a stage: The Temptations, The Four Tops, Dennis Edwards, and Special EFX to name a few. As a live performer, Exum’s smile and sense of humor perfectly complement his amazing ability to blow a soothing and soulful tune and easily connect with his audience. He exudes the unique chemistry evoked when passion and seduction coalesce. Exum commands the stage with an air of confidence, ownership, and humility which is both engaging and pleasing to behold. In 2018, Exum was signed with TK Productions and has since recorded collaborations with Innervision Records, jazz vocalist Preston Smith, R&B vocalist Travis Malloy, and platinum rap artist CMG of the Conscious Daughters. Today, Exum spends his time hosting a radio show on Colorado Springs’ jazz station, Jazz 93.5 FM and performing shows on a regular basis. His journey continues with no end in sight. “My journey in music is not a sprint. It’s a marathon.” The world awaits with bated breath.
"Exum’s smile and sense of humor perfectly complement his amazing ability to blow a soothing and soulful tune and easily connect with his audience."
VICTORIA LIPSCOMB DIRECTOR OF COLORADO SPRINGS CHILDRENS CHOIR DIRECTOR OF MUSIC AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF COS
"I had a really special music teacher that made sure I understood music theory." Victoria Lipscomb started singing when she was five years old and hasn’t stopped since. Her elementary school music teacher who heard her singing, contacted her mother, and requested Lipscomb’s placement in her choir. Typically, a student is required to 8 years old before they can join the choir, but the music teacher was confident she would do well. Her mother said yes, and Victoria's musical training started. She recalls, “I had an exceptional music teacher that made sure I understood music theory, how to read music, and count music, etc.” Victoria took to music and it to her like a wellfitting outfit. Since then, music has been a part of the young singer’s life in every way. Her talent for singing extended to an interest in musical instruments. By the age of sixteen, Victoria could play four instruments including bass, piano, drums, and all percussion instruments. Eager to broaden her musical portfolio, Victoria began trying her hand at songwriting and found she had a special knack for that too. “I like to write about everything. A lot of stuff I have written lately has been socially and politically charged. Sometimes even those songs can sound like a love song, but it’s really about the government or something. Everybody gets to decide what it means to them, and that’s what makes artistry…art.” Edited by Porsha Stuckey
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
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FOOD SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
AL'S CHICKEN AND WAFFLES
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Al, now a retired veteran, dreamed of owning his own restaurant his entire life. The menu would consist of southern, home-style dishes, made from scratch and cooked in-house. Start-up costs to manifest his dream would require partnering with his daughter and son-inlaw, who helped raise funds and composed a business plan. They found a location off of North Academy in the Citadel Crossing Plaza, which was a perfect fit. In May of 2018, Al’s Chicken and Waffles opened its doors.
I have also learned that excellent customer service is essential. My husband and I worked in call centers which taught me a lot about customer service and retention. We apply that experience to our business to ensure our customers feel at home when they come here. We treat them with respect and allow them to be themselves.
Does the family have a background in cooking?
How do you plan to expand your business over the next five years?
This is the first restaurant I’ve worked in. However, I have a lot of experience in business. I worked at a hospital when I lived in Nebraska which taught me a lot about the inner workings of a business. The score office also help me with the business plan..
We hope to open a second location near the Fort Carson army base. We grew up down there, and that is where my grandfather was stationed. Next, we plan to expand further North of the city and eventually make our restaurant a staple throughout the state of Colorado.
What have you learned about owning and managing a restaurant?
What are your menu favorites?
Opening a restaurant is the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. After the first six months, my understanding of what it takes to run a restaurant increased. I have learned how to budget correctly, I also learned how to order the right amount of food and supplies. I have learnred through my successes and failures. I have learned that you must have faith and believe 36
721 N ACADEMY BLVD, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80909 (719) 344-9652 | FB.COM/ALSCHICKENANDWAFFLES
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that everything is going to turn around. I have learned that to trust the process.
People love our boneless chicken breast. It’s pan-fried with added breadcrumbs. Our bone-in chicken is popular too, macaroni and cheese, fried okra, and collard greens. As for our desserts, people enjoy our sweet potatoes and pecan pies. Our shrimp and grits dish is our current special. We’ve received a lot of compliments about it, so we’re thinking of adding it as a main menu item.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
FOOD SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
ENGLISH DOCKSIDE 1201 W COLORADO AVE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80904 (719) 227-7732 / ENGLISHDOCKSIDE.COM
English Dockside is the best fresh seafood restaurant in Colorado Springs which also serves fantastic burgers, ribs, and steaks. Don’t just take our word for it, read the online reviews. Since 2005, English Dockside has consistently won the “Best of Colorado Springs” award. Their signature dishes include Blue Crab Gumbo, Clam Chowder, Alaskan King Salmon, and Chilean Sea Bass. Their menu has succulent dishes for every palette. English Dockside invites you to come, eat heartily and drink deeply. Come see for yourself what the critics already know!
SPICE ISLAND GRILL
10 N SIERRA MADRE ST, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903 (719) 473-8280 / SPICEISLANDGRILL.COM Spice Island Grill is a homey eatery that serves some of Jamaica’s favorite dishes, vegetarian items, wines, and liquors. Proud owner and master chef Ellen Skeets has devised a menu of delicious entrées. Each selection is a
special, perfectly seasoned, delight. To consume them, is to be whisked away to an ambiance likened to the island itself. From the gracious service to the charming atmosphere, Spice Island Grill strives to provide a spectacular dining experience.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
On the weekends D.J. Smithy fills the room with music from the islands. Come in for a delicious Latin American meal, and the best Caribbean cuisine Colorado Springs has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!
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FOOD SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
PIKES PEAK PERK 5965 N. ACADEMY BLVD SUITE #203 COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (719) 522-1432 / PIKESPERK.COM Marc and Elary, opened Pikes Perk with a goal to cultivate an environment where conversations are started, and new f riends are made. Marc is a veteran with 24 years of service, they affectionately refer to Pikes Perk as a veteran-owned establishment. Both are also employed as physician assistants but their dedication to Pikes Perk never wanes. They strive to maintain a business of which the community can be proud and rely on for great service and appetizing entrees.
CAFFEINATED COW
1791 S 8TH ST G, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80905 (719) 308-2769 | FB.COMCAFFEINATEDCOW
Caffeinated
Cow
is
a
coffee
and
ice cream shop. They’ve created a f riendly neighborhood location where members of the community may gather for fun or relaxation. Customers rave that the level of customer service is no less than stellar. Their ice cream and coffee selections are perfectly paired to create sensational flavoring. Caffeinated Cow eagerly invites you to visit soon. The best part about their establishment is you!
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
FOOD SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
LUCHALS CATERING COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (310) 864-0092 / FB.COM/LUCHALSGOURMETCATERING Luchal’s Gourmet opened its doors in June of 2015 by proud owner and Chef, Luchal. She was born and raised in Compton, CA and has always been passionate about culinary arts. After joining the army, her passion for cooking deepened. She began cooking and serving soldiers while in the service, earning a stellar reputation. When she retired, Luchal decided to expand her talents to the public. This ambition associated her with some celebrities for who she served as a personal chef. Having served such prestigious individuals as Rion Evans, Trina, Dru Hill, Tony Toni Tone, Adina Howard, and Carl Thomas; Luchal sought to expand her level of achievements even further.
Luchal would soon become a member of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) and win numerous culinary competitions. Inspired by an idea to bring a variety of entrees made from scratch to the local area, Luchal opened her own gourmet. There is no doubt she takes pride in ensuring that every dish is made to perfection. Her personal philosophy is that a chef is only as good as her last dish. Chef Luchal aspires to become a major chain throughout the state of Colorado and United States. She plans to dedicate a percentage of her proceeds to a second endeavor; a program for troubled youth who have a passion for cooking.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
MYBLACKCOLORADO
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FOOD SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
SWEETS BY HANNAH
HANNAH JUNIEL COLORADO SPRINGS, CO | (719) 964-0236
“I Sugarcoat Everything!”
Sugarcoat Everything!”
Hannah Juniel is a Colorado Springs native and proud owner of Treats by Hannah, LLC. Founded and established in November 2017, Hannah has been delighting her clients with sweet, delicious treats that are affordable and creatively customized to complement any occasion. Hannah’s love for baking blossomed when she was eight. Her church held a baking contest which piqued a fledging interest to try her young hand. With her parents’ blessing, Hannah entered the competition as the youngest participant. As a novice, Hannah turned to her father whose tutelage helped her create a beautiful chocolate cake with homemade chocolate frosting, topped with a strawberry garnish. It was an amazing, ahead-of-her-time creation, which tasted as great as it looked! Hannah’s ambition garnered her first place amid her older, and seemingly better-equipped competitors. Triumphant and confident, Hannah beamed as her yellow ‘1st place’ ribbon was fastened to her dress; a single victory that evoked visions of becoming a master 40
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chef and owner of a bakery in Paris.
time, and to officiate “Treats by Hannah.”
The following years would reveal Hannah’s intensifying interest and an incredible natural knack for baking. Under her father’s expert guidance and productive critiques, Hannah would ascend to a formidable baker, with skills refined in preparation of simple treats and composite deserts. Notwithstanding her growing success and family of avid supporters, the young protégé’s interest in baking began to wane as she found appeal in other fields. Although it was suggested many times that she monetize her baking talents, Hannah wasn’t yet convinced. And so, it was, baking took a back seat to Hannah’s engineering studies at UCCS.
Indeed, her parents’ daughter, Hannah was at an advantage to propel her business forward having studied the business practices of her Father; owner of a Commercial Services; and her mother who is a successful owner of a clothing store. Hannah set to work with creating a logo and completing the administrative task of officiating her business as an LLC. Articles of Completion in hand, Hannah has been baking, delivering, and hosting her delicious desserts nearly nonstop.
At fifteen, Hannah would be called on by her mother to provide the desserts for her siblings’ fourteenth birthday celebration; an occasion to which Hannah admirably rose. Her aptitude for buffet and table décor, as well as her delicious treats, shone brilliantly and aroused the interest of a local photographer who was in attendance. With Hannah’s Permission, her delicious spread of pastries, puddings, and cakes was captured on film and reverently admired. Reviewing a freeze frame of her creative and delectable creations evoked Hannah’s call to return to baking full
"I see no sign of things slowing down anytime soon.”, the young baker beamed. “It’s funny how God gently nudges you in the direction you’re meant to drive even when you try to turn away from your intended route.
"I’m proud to say that I found my calling, I’m headed in the right direction, and I’m having a sweet time! " Written By: Porsha Stuckey
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
BAKING ENTHUSIAST COLORADO SPRINGS
LET US EAT CAKE
Colorado Springs is such a great place to be. Not only for healthy
eating but for healthy living. As our population continues to grow, there has also been an influx of people becoming increasingly health conscious. It looks as if Vegans are on the rise!
Veganism is a type of vegetarian
diet that excludes meat, eggs, dairy products and all other animal derived ingredients. To be a Vegan, refers to a person who follows this way of eating or a person who does the diet itself.
Written by Emerald Yaylor
Olivia Back
"The reason I started vegan baking was because my oldest
daughter was entering preschool and we realized a lot of kids in her class had allergies. I wanted to have a birthday party for her, but I wanted for all the kids to be involved. Everybody can have cake, everybody can have
OLIVIA BACK LET US EAT CAKE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO FB.COM/ LETUSEATCAKECO
snacks. I wanted those kids with allergies to be able to have everything all the other kids have. It was really about inclusion to start with but there are a lot of benefits to being vegan. Cancer is one of the leading causes for death in the united stated and that comes a lot f rom red meat. Vegan food has no read meat in it. Vegan is also better for the environment. "
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRANDON BORNES
MYBLACKCOLORADO
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HOSPITALITY COLORADO SPRINGS
TIFFANY BALL & LAUREN SHAWCROSS HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
Tiffany Ball Even though I have been in the hospitality industry for 14 years, it was not my initial career choice. I had an opportunity to become a teacher but dropped out and became a hotel manager. Every time I left the hospitality industry, I told myself I would never go back, but then I furthered my education and kept getting promoted, I stayed. I have gone from Louisville to Massachusetts, to Houston, to Albuquerque, to Colorado Springs. I like hospitality, because I love how you can start from the bottom, no matter who you are, and show your gumption and get promoted to a general manager, One of my favorite sayings are by Angela Duckworth, and it says, "everybody has enthusiasm, and enthusiasm is common, but what is not common is endurance." I learned in business that it doesn't matter what industry you're in, just as long as you can push through those hard times, you'll be successful. What kind of skills does someone need tto get into the industry? Tiffany Ball You have to be able to be a chameleon being able to respond to different people in different ways. You need to be able to resolve issues on your own and being able to think on your feet. In this industry, you can go a long way with the right attitude. I believe Intellect is something you can't teach easily, so if you want to travel to the United States or the world, get your foot in the right door and company; if you make the right move, you may not have to pay for anything.
"I learned in business that it doesn't matter what industry you're in just as long as you can push through those hard times, you'll be successful." 42
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TIFFANY BALL
LAUREN SHAWCROSS
Lauren Shawcross Tiffany has truly opened my eyes about what else is out there. I always believed sales was going to be my avenue, but when you work with someone who is a great leader, it inspires you and gives you that feeling that you can do more. I know I'm going to stay in this industry and I don't see what's next. Eventually, I want to get back into the corporate side of hospitality, manage multiple properties, and go up from there.
Don’t accept the glass ceilings that may be placed on you, hoping that one day they will give you a chance, stop wasting your time and giving years to a place that doesn’t appreciate you. Now is the time to take a leap of faith and jump off the cliff, start being appreciated somewhere and let your black magic shine.
I have always believed that if your dreams don't scare you, they're just not big enough. I never thought that in my 20s, I'd be working for a company that manages over 30 hotels and buying properties. I never thought that in my mid-30s, I would be overseeing the sales of two properties. Life has so much to offer, and I'm going to do everything I can to grab every little bit of it.
"If your dreams don't scare you, they're just not big enough."
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER KIM MULLETT
PRESENTER COLORADO SPRINGS
PROFESSIONAL SPEAKER
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO | (719) 357-6833 | JOHNREGISTER.COM
JOHN REGISTER
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
I am a professional speaker who helps individuals find their story, and I facilitate the brilliance in the room. How did you get into professional speaking? When I was a youngster, my father directed me to speak in front of the church congregation. I also performed for rooms full of people at cello recitals. These and more experiences in my youth helped to shape my passion for public speaking. When I got older, I joined the US Army as a sports specialist in Morale, Welfare and Recreation. I also became an athlete in the Army’s World-Class Athlete Program. However, after my amputation, I retired from service and continued to work for the same organization. One of my responsibilities was to encourage soldier is to participate in the Troops and Boots 5k runs. At that time, the Army had initiated an aggressive recruitment campaign requiring access to high schools. What better way to get in the door but through athletics? These world-class athletes would accompany me to the various high schools where I spoke to the students about my story and my positive experience in the military. My presentations became so popular with students at a high school in Virginia, a recruiter contacted me and requested that I return for a 45-minute presentation. When I eagerly accepted the request, he asked, “How much do you charge for that?” And that’s how my professional speaking career began.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER JANICE FRAZIER
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WRITERS
COLORADO SPRINGS
WRITE TOUCH CONSULTING Porsha Stuckey is a compelling, versatile, writer. She’s on a mission to assist Black professionals in pursuance of success through written word and infographics. Ms. Stuckey is the founder and CEO of Write Touch Consulting; a highly specialized firm which focuses on resume preparation, professional editing, technical and descriptive literature, website, graphics, and menu design, grant proposal, business writing, and real estate descriptions. Ms. Stuckey is highly practiced in writing compositions from a variety of perspectives to achieve any academic, professional, or technical objective. Whether you’re facing the unexpected loss of a job, seeking to re-enter the workforce, change industries, or expand your business through digital marketing, Ms. Stuckey will help you succeed.
PORSHA STUCKEY PROFESSIONAL WRITER, CEO
WRITE TOUCH CONSULTING COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80920 719.888.9329 | WRITETOUCHCONSULTING.COM
Ms. Stuckey inherited the aptitude to formulate compelling and expressive prose from her mother. It is a talent she has continuously cultivated for twenty years. She believes that even talent which comes naturally must be refined to reach its full potential and therefore studies various forms of the art. As such, Ms. Stuckey is on track to graduate with double bachelor’s degrees in English and Communications.
NEW BOOK RELEASE!
Ms. Stuckey’s love of writing is rooted in its efficacy to transform the very thought processes of her readers. She believes that in order to be a successful writer, “you must first understand and respect the power of writing and in oration. Men have used the influence of writing to frighten, inspire, brainwash, and divide the masses for centuries. So, use it responsibly.” Furthermore, Ms. Stuckey advises that “aspiring writers should write all the time because good writing means constant rewriting. Each new draft will always be more polished than the first. As well, writers should attend writing workshops and academic courses, and read a lot of books. And you must be open to criticism. If it’s constructive, you will come to rely on it to help you improve so practice not taking critiques of your work personally.” Over the years, Ms. Stuckey has primarily built her clientele through word of mouth. She disagrees that customers are only inclined to divulge unpleasant business interactions. Her extensive 'Testimonials' page is a testament to this fact. “People connect to realness. They appreciate being listened to, kindness, and respect. I never fail to execute on any expectancy. Because the fact of the matter is, the best and most vital aspect of my business are my clients. I treat them well, and in turn, my business grows. This is a universal law.”
TINA ADAMS TINAADAMS.ORG
“There comes a time in everyone’s life when we must decide to let our purpose out-weigh our pain. Out of Darkness, will help you on your journey of discovering God’s light within.” 44
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER ANGELA JACKSON
WRITERS
COLORADO SPRINGS
WORDS FROM A FIELD NEGRO
KEVIN C. MITCHELL COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
"Not For Us" Poem By Kevin C Mitchell
Betsy Ross sewed a symbol of freedom for some, but a noose
for others that waving banner had no bearing on shackled people it flew while blistered Black hands picked southern snow to make bales it has never been a comfort for our despised existence so despised yet Black hands built their white house and Black bones bore the weight of their white cruelty as Black breasts fed their little white babies but still coal bodies dangled from tree limbs damn this ungrateful nation and fuck your hurt when our knees drop to the ground saying we refuse to connect our hands to our hearts to pay respect to assassins only fools wish love and peace to their murderers but we Negroes
Photo By Aaron Graves
Kevin C. Mitchell is 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.
of the fields are no fools we toil in the sun potting escape, only to return with more numbers to liberate our families and destroy your plantation built upon stolen land so from the thief we take back our existence we take back our right to be human our right to be.
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR What is value of journalism in the black community?
Writing is art. I know that we think of an artist who writes in terms of poetry or
theater, but journalism is art too. And art moves us. For this reason, art is the partner to activism. Emotions are required to push change. Unfeeling people neither feel concern for themselves nor others. Words enable us to feel our emotions in their entirety, if we allow it. Good writing inspires us to lift up ourselves and others. A good reporter not only reports the news, they use what is happening around them to make the print acts as a mirror for the reader. And in a mirror, a community should be able to see themselves. We must read the news and see how we are relating, acting and reacting in a broad context. If what we see does not reflect us, or shames us, it is time to create change. How do you see journalism changing/impacting society in the future?
I see journalism as a conduit for all to access to understand our world through a
printed lens. Black journalists have more opportunities than ever before to write stories about us that defy stereotypes. They also have a chance to expose challenges and bring communities into processes that crush white supremacy when it is found. At last, we are becoming true contributors into writing our stories. Black journalists also have a political opportunity to write stories that embolden, empower and entertain our community. Up until this point our culture has been an afterthought in many of these settings. Black journalists locally and nationally can use statistics not to convince us that working is useless, but to show us how well we are progressing. I see many of us with platforms, blogs and other means of sharing information with wide circles of people unlimited by geographic location. Average citizens have far more influence through information to share about our community in exciting and uplifting new ways. Journalists are not the only ones with media power in 2018. We all have some of this
RACHEL STOVALL JOURNALIST
power. EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER ANGELA JACKSON
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SPIRITUALITY COLORADO SPRINGS
PASTOR
CLEVELAND A. THOMPSON
"The black church in America
is being challenged to define and, in some cases, re-define itself in these challenging times,” Pastor Thompson says. “It’s no longer good enough to just come in here once a week and go through the motions.”
The church, once the center of
African American life, must now earn its place by being relevant and productive. “Emmanuel’s ministry focuses on three key areas of healthy and productive Christian life: Spiritual Development, Temple Restoration and Community Involvement. The three are interlinked, each one empowering the next.” INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Why is loving people so hard to do? What makes it hard to love people is that often times the love is not reciprocated. The love is not given back, and difficult people react in a way that is unlovable. It hurts to give love and not receive it back, and it is easy to lash out when there is hurt. One of the most primary things I do to begin that process of loving difficult people is to take the focus off myself. As hard as that may seem, and as difficult as that can be; I have to begin to look past myself and to the things that God says, and the things I hope to see in their lives one day. I have to look past my discouragement. The chances are that I will not see immediate results; growth takes more time than we would like to admit. We can’t expect immediate results. Remembering my own life story, also helps me hold on to others. At some point, we all have been in a place in the past where we didn't receive love and do what was best. It's going to take some honesty with ourselves.
I remember that I have also been in the position of this person that's hard to love, it then allows me to walk in grace. Grace says that “this could have been me” or “this was me.” But God has kept me and brought me to the place that I am today. Everyone has been in a place of not wanting love when it was given to us. Every one of us has received loved that we have not earned. Those kinds of humbling thoughts help me to love and reach out to difficult people. Romans 5:8 says “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Jesus loved us when we did not deserve it, he gave his life for us, Jesus didn't wait for us to qualify for his love, he loved difficult people. He showed us how to love, and I’m just learning to walk in his steps day by day.
EMMANUAL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 615 VICKERS DRIVE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80918 (719) 635-4865 | GODISWITHUS.ORG
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER CHARIESE BLUE
SPIRITUALITY COLORADO SPRINGS
A STORY OF LEADERSHIP EMERGENCE BY JAMES BUTLER
CHLOE BROWN INSTAGRAM.COM/CHLOEBEE_BLESSED INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Can you explain what Tarot is about? What I do is like an intuitive tarot reading. I'm huge on feeling and sensing prominent energies and working with people. A lot of what I do at the core of it is therapy, working with people, working with their energies and helping shift mindsets. There's a lot of coaching aspects of it, but it's also a lot of fun to be able to sit down and have sessions with people and talk and pull cards. Is tarot readings a spiritual thing or like reading fortune cookie? It's interesting because Tarot is related to divination which is as old as time; especially in Af rican spiritualities and about our people. We've always been looking for ways to get conf irmation f rom the Universe on the things that we’re interested in. A lot of people kind of think it's negative, but it's a very uplifting and fulf illing kind of spirituality.
“That’s not our thing.” This was their response when, as a Junior at Colorado State University, I approached one of our campus ministries about investing in the spiritual lives of young Black student leaders. I’ve recalled this story many times, in many formats, over the course of my academic degree quest because this story has served as a pivotal experience in my personal leadership emergence. A few of my friends and I had just inherited the leadership of the student organization that had cared for us as Christian Black college students. The Seniors had graduated and commissioned us to reach and disciple the other Black students on campus, but we were new to the roles and had little idea as to how to go about leading them while also caring for our own souls. So, we agreed that we would go to another well-known and established ministry to ask if they would invest in us. By let us attend their student leaders’ trainings, spending some time asking us questions around our own discipleship. By praying with and for us, giving us guidance as we encounter new and difficult dilemmas. To our disappointment and discouragement, they responded, “Sorry, but that’s not our thing.” What’s not your thing?! Students? Leadership development? Discipleship? But everyone in that conversation understood what it was that they perceived as not their thing: Black students (or, students of color). But it was in that season that God directed me to a missional community that I would later understand to be, “the best place in the Rocky Mountain Region for students of color”, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. In that multi-ethnic community I would learn that I was made in the Image of God and that the injustice that I was facing as a Black man mattered to God. My development towards participation in the ministry of the Gospel matters to God. My life matters. Sometimes I sit and wonder; what my life would have been, had I not been invited, empowered and developed as a missional leader in the work of the Gospel? Since my experience at that meeting; I’ve had an intensifying ache for people of color, women and others in the margins to have the chance of hearing God say, “Te amo”, “Je t’aime”, “Wo aini”, “Serang Hay Yo” or “I love you” in their respective heart-language while being developed as leading co-lovers of the world with the Triune God. This issue is what has kept me awake at night, and awakened me out of bed in the morning, excited to serve the college campus. For this reason, I currently serve as a missionary to the college campus with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA in the Rocky Mountain Region. I'm an Associate Area Director and Assistant Regional Director, helping to lead the Region in continuing the tradition of InterVarsity as the best place in the Rockies for students of Color. I am also in the process of planting a new multi-ethnic ministry Area in the South-Central Rockies.
Are tarot cards a tool of the devil? It's all about the upliftment and connection to a higher source. But it does depend on the vibration of the person doing the readings if they're trying to go in the positive or negative direction. Do you need tarot cards to channel that energy? I've always been connected to people, and it's easy for me to tap into their wavelengths, be on similar f requencies. I've always been very sensitive energetically. I think Tarot created a space for me to be able to use those gifts, they are amplif ied through Tarot. JAMES BUTLER | JAMES.BUTLER@INTERVARSITY.ORG EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER CHARIESE BLUE
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BLACK GREEK ORGANIZATIONS COLORADO SPRINGS
THE DIVINE 9
THE BLACK LIGHT | INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
PRESIDENT DR. KEITH CLAYTON
POLEMARCH NATHAN MOONEY II
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC
KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY, INC.
IOTA OMICRON LAMBDA CHAPTER
IOTA BETA OMEGA CHAPTER
ALUMNI CHAPTER ( ROCKY MOUNTAIN NUPES)
AKAIOTABETAOMEGA.ORG
ROCKYMOUNTAINNUPES.COM
SPRINGSALPHAS.ORG
PRESIDENT PAMELA MILLER
PRESIDENT ERIC BRAZELL
PRESIDENT DETRA TURNER
DELTA SIGMA THETA, INC
OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC
ZETA PHI BETA, INC
ALUMNI CHAPTER
XI PI CHAPTER (ROCKY MOUNTAIN QUES)
XI KAPPA ZETA CHAPTER
AKAIOTABETAOMEGA.ORG
FB.COM/ROCKYMOUNTAINOMEGAS
ZPB-XKZ.ORG
NO COLORADO SPRINGS CHAPTER
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PRESIDENT SOPHIE C SIMS
NO COLORADO SPRINGS CHAPTER
NO COLORADO SPRINGS CHAPTER
IOTA PHI THETA FRATERINTY, INC.
PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY, INC.
SIGMA GAMMA RHO INC.
iotaphitheta.org/
DELTA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER IN DENVER
ALUMNAE CHAPTER ( BETA WHO SIGMA)
pbs1914colorado.org
beta-rho-sigma.org
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MASONS
COLORADO SPRINGS
PRINCE HALL FREE MASONS
THE BLACK LIGHT | INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
ALONZO MARSHALL PRINCE HALL FREE MASONS MOUNTAIN POST MILITARY LODGE #26 INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR What you do like about your organization? This is a fraternal organization, and our primary focus is trying to better the Community. We try to do a lot of charity and fundraising events. within the community. Why did you get involved with the fraternal organization? My father is still a Mason. I've been around it for a while, and it was always presented to me as a Christian organization. It's not a church, but it is a Christian organization. We have a lot of spiritual rituals out of the King James Bible in our meetings. My father's life, inspired me to go forward and try to learn more about it and be a part of this organization. What are some of the requirements to be part of the organization? First of all, you got to be at least 16 years old. You have to believe in a Supreme Being. You cannot be an atheist, and you cannot worship the devil. You have to do a physical and a background check. There is more you have to go through butin general, those basic requirements What are misconceptions that you come across that people have about Mason's? The biggest misperception about this fraternity is that we worship the devil. I think a lot of that comes from people who don't know about it. They think becasue we are more of a private organization that we are doing something wrong. But you can't go to a church meeting unless you're a member of the church. In the same way, unless you a member of this fraternity, you are not going to know about everythign we do.
PRINCE HALL FREE MASONS
"You have to have a strong foundation within yourself before you can help others." How do people get involved who might be interested in it or even knowing more about it? The first thing you would do is, ask a Mason. You can be curious about it, but that doesn't guarantee your entry into this organization. There is a process you have to go through and pass before you are allowed in.
"The biggest misperception about this fraternity is that we worship the devil." EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY
what about the role in the black community? Our primary focus is our commitment to uplifting our community and families. We do not get paid for this. It is personally gratifying. We are trying to build up our community because we know it is the foundation of everything. You have to have a strong Foundation within yourself before you can help others. You cant help others if your own foundation is weak and not stable. You have to be strong, to help others be strong.
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FINANCES
COLORADO SPRINGS
ADVISORS INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR able to
What do you enjoy about accounting?
take advantage of everything
You're not pigeon-holed into just that the photographers have to offer. Get your hands dirty, learn a little doing people's taxes or payroll. You can do bit of the accounting, how to manage the forensic accounting, payables, receivables,
cost accounting and so much more. I firmly business, what strategies will improve it, and believe that when you find your career niche, how to make the company more effective. and you love what you do, there are all kinds You don't have to do it forever, but learning of ways to get accredited within that industry. the basics, will make you a better leader for or it! individuals don't have the processes figured
I
enjoy
when
companies
If you’re going to hire a CPA or
out and give me the opportunity to optimize an accounting firm, listen to ideas and their accountability and streamline their suggestions, so you know what the “soup
processes. It’s about keeping it organized so smells like”, because not all things are that you can account for what you have done, going to be a good fit your business, that’s why I love the process part so much. but it will also bring awareness to fraud scams that could cost you your business.
In addition to understanding which What are some of the main things that marketing avenue is right for you, some people need to focus on? accounting businesses thrive on social media, radio, TV, software program for your specific industry radio, direct mailers, and word of mouth, but is just the start. You need to ensure that you have to find the one that works best for
Having
a
good
whoever is in charge, knows the details you. Remember any business you gain from of the business, from the ground up. For any of the avenues mentioned above, even example: let's say I'm a business owner, if it’s 5%, is a five percent you didn't have and I'm going to manage a whole bunch before, so scale your efforts appropriately, of photographers, without any experience based in doing photography.
I wont
on
the
return
on
ALICIA COLEMAN ACCOUNTANT & FINANCIAL ADVISOR
investment.
be
TARIQ COLLINS | FINANCIAL ADVISOR A financial advisor with a heart for the youth and teaching them financial literacy.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER KIM MULLETT
GUN SAFETY DENVER
I moved to Colorado, That's when I went ahead and took the club more serious. I made the organization official and wrote out a constitution. What are some tips you will give to new gun owners? I believe that if anyone's going to own a gun for self-defense that they should seek proper training first and foremost. Don't look for a firearm that has an excellent reputation, because sometimes people get the gun and it's not comfortable for them. If you have a firearm, make sure you go into the range regularly. Understand that as a firearm owner, especially if you care to have a concealed carry license, you are held to a higher standard in society when you're walking around with the power of God on your hip. You have to understand how to safely use that firearm. You can’t go about pulling a gun on somebody just because you got into a disagreement. How do you plan on changing societies perception about gun ownership in the black community?
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Why did you start a black gun club? I'm from Biloxi, Mississippi. I always go back to Alabama during the hunting season; I've been hunting since I was nine years old. Growing up my entire life around guns, it became normal. As I got older, I realized that people think that it's abnormal. They think it's strange to know how to use a gun. That's not good, especially with our history here in America. In 2015, I got some people together who were all interested in guns. We went to this one gun range in Mississippi that we found online. Once we got to the entrance, there were a bunch of middleaged white men hanging out in the parking lot. There was no sign of any gun club or a gun range. So, we asked two of the men who were in the parking lot if there was a gun range there. Their response was “no.” And so I was like, “okay that's weird.” We went ahead, and we looked at the map. Sure enough, we were at the right location; we just weren’t welcome there. We ended up that day going out into the woods, got a little location, and set up a makeshift range. Since I had the
ÒGÚN GUN CLUB DENVER, CO (228) 326-4270 FB.COM/ OGUNGUNCLUB most experience, I was teaching them and showing them the fundamentals of firearm safety. After being swept a few times by my one friend, I went ahead and just stopped everything, took everybody's guns and and just basically taught them fundamentals of handling a gun. Once everyone became proficient in the fundamentals, we started shooting again. We stayed out there for a few hours until they got better. After we left and everybody was at home, I started thinking about it. I just taught these young black men how to shoot correctly and handle themselves safely. I probably just saved somebody's life. This is around the same time that the news is making a big deal out of black people being shot and killed by people who think they are above the law, killing an unarmed black people for no reason. I was like, okay this is going on, It's not new to us, but there’s this momentum, and black people feel how I feel. Maybe this is the right time to start getting them more involved. I started the Gun Club that focused on the black community teaching of firearm safety and how to deescalate situations. When
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER RYAN FORD
Find a group of people that look like you and start going out to the range. Or find a Black Gun Club near you, and start getting together and going shooting. At this point, gun ownership is generally seen as negative, because white supremacy pushes out these images of Black Gun Owners as thugs and criminals. That's all you see when it comes to black people and guns, so it's important that black people start getting out and exposing their family members and children to the gun culture. That will help us further our agenda and change the narrative, and also creating a Positive Black Gun Owners image.
"You can’t go about pulling a gun on somebody just because you got into an disagreement."
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VETERAN SUPPORT SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
VETERAN AFFAIRS
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Interview with a VA employee
Many Veterans walk in our office, having never registered before for assistance. Many need housing, financial, medical, mental health assistance or benefits compensation. What made you want to work with veterans? Being a veteran myself; at my previous church. I had a lot of veterans that gave me a lot of insight on what to do and what I shouldn't do when I got out. So, I wanted to make sure the younger veterans that were getting out now would already be set up for success because a lot of veterans that are coming now are in their 60’s. What do you enjoy about your job? I enjoy helping the veterans, especially when they don't have a clue what's going on and I set them in the right direction, so they can see what the VA can offer them. There was a mother that came in a couple of months ago, and her son wanted to commit suicide because he has severe PTSD. Her son didn't want to get out of the car, so she came in, and I went out and talked to him and gave him a little bit of my experience. We got them up to the third Floor (mental health). Afterwards, he came down and
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS COLORADO SPRINGS, CO VA.GOV
thanked me and told me I saved his life. We see a lot of severe PTSD and a lot of veterans don't want to admit that they have it because they think people are going to look at them weird. It's hard finding a job when people think you have PTSD because a lot of companies think they might snap at any time. What are some tips that you would give to veterans in transition? Make sure to have your DD-214, and make sure it's correct. Anything that you want to claim as a disability, make sure it's already in your medical files because once you're out is hard to try to tie it to something that happened in the military. We have a lot of Vietnam veterans that say “Oh I was exposed to Agent Orange,” but how can you tie it now to something that was way back in the ’50s and ’60s? So that's what happens a lot of times. Also, if you're not evaluated enough, you'll get no compensation. So, make sure that all of your paperwork is in order and that you have been getting seen for whatever you want to claim. You can't say your arm was hurting when you were on active duty but have no record to show for it. They’ll tell you that it wasn't hurting that bad because you weren't seen for it enough. It matters how
often you got seen for it and how it affected your work. You have people at the VA that look for the important stuff and how often they’ve been seen for it and the severity. Is there financial assistance for veterans transitioning? It depends on your situation, each case is different, but I know we do offer assistance for social service. Members with families can get help with the first month’s rent and a mortgage.
"I enjoy helping the veterans, especially when they don't have a clue what's going on. I get them headed in the right direction"
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER TONYA INGRAM
VETERAN SUPPORT SERVICES COLORADO SPRINGS
COLORADO VETERANS RESOURCE COALITION INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Why did you join this organization? I retired from the Air Force in 2014. I have a traumatic brain injury. I was injured back in 1994. I was also hurt in 1995. Both were traumatic brain injuries. I was still able to complete my service in the Air Force. All of us, not just veterans, stumble in life sometimes and a lot of times we don't have the resources to help us get back on our feet. When I found out there were resources like this open, I just got excited. . Once I retired, I began to volunteer, working with veterans, working my way up to eventually being hired in my current position. What I enjoy about my job is helping people transition to a life that is greater. I served 25 years in the Air Force, and I never knew about anything like this in the civilian world. I never knew that these agencies existed. I love it What are some exciting stories that you hear about in your organization? I don't hear exciting stories, I'm engaging in exciting stories every day. I am involved in the outreach programs, where we go into the community, on the streets, and into different agencies. I'm speaking about two dozen times a year, raising awareness for our veterans that are living in the streets, that never knew that our services existed. I‘ve met women and men who lived in their cars with their children and no money. I get to work with these individuals and help facilitate their transition to the right places and change their lives completely. I had an individual that was in my program about six months ago, who walked into my office yesterday and it shook me up a little bit because I remember how our interaction initially was not positive, but he got it, and he graduated my program. He's no longer homeless. This is the change I get to see every day. These guys come in on methamphetamines, on marijuana, on cocaine, on alcoholic beverages and what we're here to do is help show them a different way. Even though we are a 30-day program, we help get these veterans back on their feet.
Can you talk about the struggle from civilian life? Civilian and military life are two completely different worlds. A lot of employers, first of all, are intimidated because of the knowledge that you hold or the things that you may have been experiencing like PTSD or traumatic brain injury. They're not supposed to discriminate with you, but they often do. What are some helpful tips that you would give to Veterans transitioning from the military to a civilian life?
COLORADO VETERANS RESOURCE COALITION 415 SOUTH WEBER ST. COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903 CVRCFORVETS.ORG | (719) 477-1639 I'm the program director for the Colorado Veterans Resource Coalition non-profit agency. We focus on housing homeless veterans and helping them through substance abuse treatment with the VA. Providing transitional shelter for them as they go through the treatment for substance abuse.
You must do research. You can't just leave the military and say I'm going to get a job. You need to do the footwork first; Do the reading and research to see what's out there. I was not aware of anything because I was in the world of NORAD. So before you depart the military, remember it’s a new world you're stepping into. Now that I'm out here, what I see is that this is dynamic. Veterans should not be homeless in Colorado Springs. There is no reason for for veterans to be homeless in Colorado Springs unless they choose to be. There is an abundance of resources out here to get better and to get housing. Do you feel that beings a black veteran has unique challenges? A lot of times the challenges that we face is that when we step into a job interview, and we already have the thought that because I'm an African-American or because I'm black, I may have less of a chance. When we have that perception in our mind, we're not giving it the all that we have. I feel that way. We have to give it 100 percent all the time and when we are not selected don't question who we are, that takes away from us. When you walk in with a negative perspective from the beginning, that's going to show, they’re going to think what they want to think. There's nothing you can do to control that. So what you need to do is to be exactly who you are, 100 percent.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER TONYA INGRAM
JEROME FORD PROGRAM DIRECTOR
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EDUCATION COLORADO SPRINGS
IN & OUT THE CLASSROOM INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR I come from a family of educators. My grandma was an elementary school teacher for 40 years. My mom taught for over 20 years, and when my father retired from the military, he went into education and was a high school athletic director. I grew up having high regard for teachers and educators, and I knew early one I wanted to be an educator. After college, I began exploring the education field, and I was hooked. I was confident in my abilities and believed I could make a difference in the education system. I went back to school for a masters in administration, and not soon after I became assistant principal for 12 years. For that 12-year span, I worked at 5 middle schools. Most recently I accepted a job at James Madison middle school as a principal. When I look back at the people who had the biggest influences on my life, it was educators, and it was teachers. In 5th grade, my teacher, Sam Chambers made education engaging for me. I wasn't the best student, but he just engaged me beyond the content, he was interested in who I was and affirmed my gifts and talents. Him and other teachers like him inspired me to achieve. Those moments made me feel better than scoring a touchdown in college. Having the admiration of the teacher was impactful for me. That's why I went into education. I wanted to make another student feel the same way that those special teachers made me feel. Being an educator is fulfilling work, its hard work, it's a calling. What greater things can you do that to boost a young person on their journey to adulthood. We get to pour into these kids. we get to shape lives.
DERIEN LATIMER EDUCATOR & CULINARY ENTHUSIAST FB.COM/LATIMERSKITCHEN I remember my mom sitting my sister and I down to tell us, ”look, its time for yall to start cooking. I have to work all day, you both have to help out” My mom didn't give us any directions, she just said ‘. “If you want to eat you got to figure it out,” and we just learned on the go. That was my introduction to cooking. Fast forwards years later, I was in Oregon at a family gathering, and my brother in law used to always burn the chicken on the grill. One day I just got tired of eating burnt chicken, so I got on the grill and cooked the chicken. From that point forward, I was appointed grill master at family functions. I kept getting better, and one day people were talking about how good my chicken was. Eventually, I began getting hired to cook for friends. That how my business started in 2007. Even though my calling is to work with kids, my passion is cooking. I listen for the noise level to go down at an event because their mouths are full. It's a great feeling when people are enjoying the food so much that the place goes quiet. I think food definitely brings people together.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SARAH SVATII
EDUCATION COLORADO SPRINGS
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM SHINE NATION SHINENATION.ORG | (719) 357-3054 We are a non-profit that provides life changing, character building opportunities for underserved youth in our community, through participation in the arts.
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Why did you start shine nation? Victoria Lipscomb 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.
Are there a few tips that you would give to people wanting to help young kids tap into their creativity? Alana Lipscom Just talking to them and getting to know them (being a mentor) is a great place to start. Many youths don’t have anyone to talk to. Taking the time to listen and answer questions is enough to encourage them. Once you get to know them, you can help them access their creativity. Victoria Lipscomb Arm young people with the tools necessary to think critically, keep themselves safe and be smart about the choices they make. We see a lot of crazy things in our world today. I work with young people a lot and what I notice is no one's arming them with the tools to do simple things like stay calm. Young people are worked up almost all the time. Why? Because the world is worked up almost all the time. If we can find a way to arm young people with tools like meditative breathing and yoga, that alone can be infinitely helpful.
ALANA LIPSCOMB PRESIDENT
Alana Lipscomb Be resourceful and find opportunities for yourself. If you want to dance, look at all the things that are available to dancers. It doesn't always have to be things that cost money, because I know a lot of times it is financially situation where you feel like you can't do the activity that you want to do because you feel like you can't afford it or parents feel like they can't provide it for you. So there are always resources out there that are free, that are scholarships that you can always ask for and see if it is something they can help you with.
"My family worked really hard to make sure we understood that our life didn't end at the end of our block"
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SARAH SVATII
VICTORIA LIPSCOMB SECRETARY
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EDUCATION COLORADO SPRINGS
STEM PROGRAM SCIENCE . TECHNOLOGY . ENGINEERING . MATH
SPARKS MINDSET INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Why do you do what you do?
LAWRENCE WAGNER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lawrence has over ten years of project management experience. An Army veteran, Lawrence brings a wide array of experiences in cybersecurity, defense, diversity and inclusion training, and volunteerism. Lawrence was one of the founders of the 1 Million Cups networking group in Colorado Springs and the founder of Connect! Colorado Springs.
When I was growing up, I never felt like I fit in. Then I got saved at my church, and I felt I had finally found a community that believed in me. As I got older and started doing more things, I realized I was being given opportunities that other people, especially in the black community, were not being given. People with my background were ending up in jail. My brother spent time in jail. He’s not there now, but it damaged him. Other people end up killing or getting killed. They don't have hope for a better future. I understand what that hopelessness looks like. Luckily, I was able to join the military. There I received years of counseling and gained the confidence to move from hopeless to hopeful. If I had that help when I was 15/16, it would have made a big difference in my life. I want to help kids have the opportunities I didn’t have. I want to prepare them to survive and thrive in a world that will try to keep them down.
(720) 507-8986 SPARKMINDSET.COM At Sparks Mindset, our vision is to help break the cycle of poverty and hopelessness in underrepresented communities. Our mission is to spark opportunity by increasing access to transformative technology careers
" I want to break the cycle, one kid at a time."
I believe in what STEM offers because a lot of people in Black communities don't have access to adequate Virtual Reality, cybersecurity or coding resources. Only three percent of African-Americans graduate high school with this type of education, and only three percent of that three percent actually graduate from college. I want to help those numbers grow. I want to break that cycle one kid at a time and inspire those kids to help others when their time comes.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SARAH SVATII
EDUCATION COLORADO SPRINGS
HOME SCHOOL colors and everything. I did a lot of video work with him. I also used flash cards and Hooked on Phonics. When it was time for kindergarten, my kids were already reading and knew how to write. They even knew how to do simple addition, but then it started to get scary because my oldest was like, “okay, we’re doing home school for real.” In the beginning, I just wanted to prepare them to be good at school. Nw I have to start taking my role as their teacher seriously. At that time, I had three young kids, 5 and below. It was a lot, so I decided to put them in a traditional school. While they were in school, they excelled. They were at the top of their classes. That’s when I realized I could do it. I could homeschool my kids. Do your kids like homeschool? We always reassess. I always asked my kids (even when they were young), do you like home school or do you want to go to a regular school every day. Homeschool was something my kids wanted to do. It wasn't something I was forcing them to do. It was hard for me to settle into life as a homeschooler. I would never force it on any of us. How do you afford the materials? I'm very resourceful. I use the library. I make photocopies. I do what needs to be done. You don’t always have to buy the books. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. What tips would you pass on to people who are new to homeschooling? SHAWN & VALERIE THOMAS INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
Why did you get into homeschooling? I was pregnant with my first child. My husband and I always talked about schooling and how we wanted to raise our kids. We both just had a feeling we should homeschool. We didn't understand why because neither one of us came from homeschool families, but ultimately we decided that homeschool is what God wanted us to do. How did you get into it? I started researching as much as I could. It wasn't as scary in the beginning because I started when my son was only two. I just started doing things at home. In the beginning, I still worked full time as a military nurse, we would work in about 1-2 hours a day whenever I would see him. I had a video system in my car so we would even work in the car. I would always put on educational videos. I started with the alphabet and counting videos, and by the time he was three, he knew his alphabet and could recognize
If you feel like you're doing everything wrong, that's normal. You're transitioning from a mindset of what school is to what school is going to be for your family. You’re going to have to change the way you look at the school. Your home is your classroom. The world is your classroom. From cooking and cleaning to playing and field trips, your kids are always learning. You are teaching them to be both books smart and streetwise.
"You’re going to have to change the way you look at school. Your home is your classroom. The world is your classroom."
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SARAH SVATII
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IMMIGRATION PHOTO BY JEANETTE FALU-BISHOP
Coming To America
PELINDA LATIMER IMMIGRANT FROM KENYA
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR I grew up in this little farm in Kenya that our family took care of. We took care of the goats and cows. We didn't go anywhere else. If you go to different places, they don't speak your language, and we didn't have a vehicle to go places. Our community had a couple of vehicles that were used if there was something significant, like going to the hospital. But we never left our community except to go to walk to school. How did you find out you're moving to America? My mom was in America visiting family. While she was out there, she met my stepfather. When my mother came back for us, she brought my stepfather with her. He was white, blond hair, blue eyes, with a white shirt. It was the first time I saw a white person. I just wanted to touch him to see if he was real. In the morning we'd have to get up early to do our chores before school, but we'd wake up extra early to watch him get up. 58
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What was the transition like moving from Kenya to America? When we ended up getting enough money for all of us to move to America, they got us tickets and all our family got together. I met a sibling that I didn't know I had because they lived with another part of my family. We went to the airport and boarded the plane. We made it to the US, and we went to my stepfather's town in Junction City, Oregon.
In Kenya, our whole Community, our tribe all cared for each other. As a kid if you got in trouble somewhere else, the neighbor was able to spank you. They took on the role of your parent. When we got to America, everybody waskind of to themselves. In Kenya, we would slaughter goats and cows ourselves. Here you go to the grocery store right down the street, and you buy those things. People here have goats for pets, that was weird to me.
What do you remember about that? It was a very huge adjustment. I couldn't communicate with anybody. When I got here, all I knew was how to say hello in English. . There were soo many white people. We had all these black people showing up to their community, four kids and my mom. We didn't go to school for the first year. We needed to learn how to speak English.
In Kenya, if you were late one time for school, the teacher would bring you in front of the class and spank you, and the students would pinch you. In Junction City, Oregon, it was tough even making friends. In school, there was one girl that I played tetherball with. After she was done. She would always go back inside and wash her hands because she thought my black skin was going to come off on her.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SARAH SVATII
IMMIGRATION
PHOTO BY JEANETTE FALU-BISHOP
When did you start becoming comfortable with the english language?
What are some tips you would give to people coming to America?
I did not start feeling comfortable with the English language until about middle school. They put me in special education classes because I did not speak well enough. I was smart. I was still learning English. Looking back on that, it makes me angry, and it just wasn't right. I was different, and I was treated differently, but I didn't feel different. I felt like I was there like everybody else, but I think over time I realized, of course, I ’m different because I’m a different color.
I'm kind of sad now that I didn't continue to speak my language. In some ways I was forced to stop speaking it because it was vital that we learn to speak English so we can move on with our lives. My advice would be, don't be so quick to want to lose your accent so people can accept you a little bit easier. It bothers me when people want to get rid of their accents and their culture. I'm from Kenya, But no matter if I hang out with my Kenyan friends or my American friends I don't feel like a fit in. It ’s awkward. Honestly, my kids now love my Kenyan roots, accent, and culture. They want to be able to learn certain things. I speak to them all the time about certain things that I remember. I want them to carry my heritage on because once I'm gone, that's it.
Was your experience similar to your siblings? It was kind of similar, but I think my brothers were treated differently and had it a little easier. Dating was easier for them. It was easier for them to find a girlfriend than it was for me to find a boyfriend. My parents had different rules for them. I was just more angry because I felt like that's not fair.
I try to enjoy every moment when I'm with my Kenyan friends. Whether it be music, food or just reconnecting with people, it makes me feel like I'm back home. We need to stay connected anyway we can. It's going to feel awkward sometimes, but it still feels amazing at the end of the day. I remember one time I was with my family and cousins and everybody was speaking Swahili. I understood what they were saying. I couldn't have a conversation back, but I would talk back in English. So they started speaking English. I told them to continue to speak Swahili instead because it made me feel good. When I went to bed that night. I was having conversations in my dreams, speaking Swahili. it was amazing, and I understood everything, and it was just the coolest thing ever.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SARAH SVATII
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FA M I LY CA R E COLORADO SPRINGS
MARRIAGE COUNSELING SAVING LIVES, ONE MARRIAGE AT A TIME
DR. CLARENCE SHULER (719) 282-1340 CLARENCESHULERONLINE.COM For over 30 years, Clarence and 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 Af rican American Healthy Marriage Initiative. He’s certified in Marriage Education for Professional 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 their personal and professional lives. He’s authored six books.
While single, Clarence saw a need to begin conducting marriage seminars. His wife, Brenda, who was his girlfriend at the time thought this idea was bizarre. He taught dating and married couples about commitment, respect, and fundamental biblical truths concerning relationships. When he and Brenda were married, he asked her to join him in marriage ministry. Reluctantly, she tested these new waters, and he’s grateful to God she did. Over the years, God has continued to grow BLR Ministry, says Clarence. We travel the world, preaching and teaching at hundreds of events, partnering with prominent ministries, discipling singles, couples, and impacting thousands of marriages. For more than 32 years, we have been doing marriage ministry, and it has been well worth it. Recently, while at a restaurant, a woman approached me and hugged me. She thanked me for saving her daughter’s marriage - an affair had occurred. She said, while pointing at her grandchildren, “You helped these children from experiencing the pain of a divorce. You saved their lives too!” That moment was priceless! Moments like these have consistently happened over the years. It’s not only about saving a marriage but about impacting a family for future generations/ This is the ministry God has called us to. Nothing is more of a Blessing and more fun than doing this ministry with my wife!
BOOK RELEASE THE SHULER FAMILY MYBLACKCOLORADO
1) Communicate, assume nothing, and talk about everything.” 2) “Praying together as a couple daily lowers your chance of divorce to 1 out 10,000 couples. Praying together provides security for your spouse (yes, men like security too), bonds you closer together, gives you more patience with each other, builds oneness between you, lessen conflict, sets a safe tone & zone in your home. And a praying couple blesses your children (if you have them.) I’m suggesting praying together 5-7 minutes each day. Pray for your marriage, children (future children), finances, in-laws and outlaws, your job, or whatever is a pressing need. 3) “If you want to have great sex within your marriage, you must be connected emotionally, intellectually, socially, and spiritually. The physical act of sex is meant to be a celebration of these connections, which is why a one-night stand can never compare to the sex had by couples with the
NEW
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3 WAYS TO BUILD A LASTING RELATIONSHIP
connections mentioned above, and those who are praying consistently together.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER VICTORIA STONER
FA M I LY CA R E COLORADO SPRINGS
PREGNANCY CLINIC LIFE NETWORK 3700 GALLEY ROAD COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80909 ELIFENETWORK.COM (719) 591-2609
DR. BRENDA SHULER Over a decade ago years ago, I walked into Life Network knowing nothing about post-abortion, but I had a deep conviction to share what God says about forgiveness and His love. Abortion impacts families and relationships. Many people, men and women, are filled with constant guilt and shame. They feel like God will not forgive them for what they have done, and they can’t forgive themselves. They feel abortion is an unpardonable sin, in a category of its own. They feel unworthy of love and acceptance. They believe their value as a person has diminished because of what they’ve done. It is hard for them to hear the truth that God loves them and can forgive them. Many know this in their head, but they don’t believe it in their hearts. The most memorable moments for me are the “aha” moments: when the light comes on, and they finally get it! Hope starts returning to them. The hours we spent in discussion and reading what God says about forgiveness and love starts becoming real and alive to them. 1 John 1:9 says, if we confess our sins, he is faithful and to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The word all means everything. God can forgive us of all our sins. And it says right there in God’s word that He forgives. Once people accept that, it opens a whole new world to them. They begin walking in authority and truth, and the lies that were keeping them in bondage start to break down through the power of Jesus. It is an incredible opportunity to do what I do; lead people to experience God in this way.
WALK FOR LIFE ANNUAL EVENT IN COLORADO SPRINGS
SAVING LIVES ONE BABY AT A TIME LIFE NETWORK‘S MISSION STATEMENT to cultivate a community that values life through the love of Christ. OUTREACHES PREGNANCY CENTER Established in 1983, The Colorado Springs Pregnancy Center offers life-affirming alternatives to those facing unplanned pregnancies. All services are free of charge. BRIDGES OF HOPE A program that offers a nine-week healing and support class to those who are struggling with the effects of a past abortion. EDUCATION FOR A LIFETIME Equips middle and high school students with medically sound training on the benefits of avoiding sexual activity outside of marriage. LIFESTEPS LifeSteps provides support and education on topics including pregnancy, infant care, nutrition, and childbirth. As a reward for participating, parents receive infant and toddler clothing, bedding, formula, and diapers as well as larger items, such as a new crib, car seat or stroller. MEN‘S SERVICES This program teaches men the basics of pregnancy and child development, how to support their partner, infant care, nutrition, bonding/attachment, toddler care, safety,
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER VICTORIA STONER
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SINGLE PARENTING "You are going to make mistakes along the way. It is absolutely ok." THE BLACK LIGHT | INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
How do you make it work with multiple children? What’s your strategy?
BEVERLEY BESHA FAMILY SUPPORT EXPERT &MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER BEVERLEYBESHA.COM
My ex-husband and I have always made a conscious effort to raise our children with morals and values and put systems in place that were congruent to both homes. We want consistency when it comes to child rearing. We try not to enforce a lot of rules on our children that will cause confusion because we value consistency. We give them more freedom to enjoy being children. Our methods do not always work or go so smoothly, but for the majority of the time, the children understand what is expected of them. The problems that we've had in child-rearing is that I’m more proactive, a planner spontaneous, creative and strict. Their father is more relaxed and lenient. The children have to adjust to our different styles in separate homes, and it can be frustrating going back and forth. I had a system in place for all of the children. It would always consist of them knowing where they had to be, what they had to do, and ensuring they were wellequipped. I also made sure that I put in
personal time with the children. This meant that I often called them randomly or had one-on-one time with them. My children knew that I cared and that they were essential to me. They have always been my priority. With all the time you spend managing your children, when do you find time for yourself? I do have a few friends that live here in the Springs. I make sure one day a week, in the evenings, that I spend time away from my children, to socialize and focus on me. It helps bring balance. And if you don’t find this space, you will see yourself putting your children’s and everyone else's needs ahead of your own. Then you are going to lose your identity and your voice. Afterward, you will find it very difficult to make decisions for yourself and figure out what’s best for your life. You're going to make mistakes along the way; and I let myself know that it's okay if I made a mistake, it is absolutely okay.
My name is Beverly Besha. I am a 41-year-old single parent who enjoys parenting seven amazing children. My children are ages 22, 17, 16, 18, 13, 11, and 10. I own a business in the social service industry in Milwaukee, and in West Allis, Wisconsin; I’m also pursuing my doctoral degree in Public Policy with a focus on Social Policy. I currently hold a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management & Leadership, and a BS in Human Services with a Criminal Justice Concentration. 62
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER VICTORIA STONER
FA M I LY CA R E DENVER
MENTORING THE CROWLEY FOUNDATION
"In order to do this type of work, you must be passionate about the need and the people that you serve." THE BLACK LIGHT | INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Can you explain a little bit about your program? We're a College Prep program. We focus much of our time and energy on mentoring young men. Boys to Men is our central entity right now. In it, there is Leadership Development, Emotional Learning, Career Exploration, and our summer program. We provide some local university scholarships, but we're also starting to push and promote trade schools that support plumbing, solar, machine shop, welding, trades (to name a few). Through relationship-building with these young men, we can define what the needs are. When was your company established, what are you focusing on? We are going into our 10th year right now. We started in 2009. Currently, our passion is just working with these young men to ensure they don’t end up in the system and become victims of the tragedies in this world right now.
Young people gravitate towards it because they see the passion, and they love it. You must be authentic about what you do to build with students nowadays; they see right through you. They hold you accountable to what you say you’ll do, and be where you say you’ll be. Anything exciting coming up for your organization? There's always room for growth and other opportunities, and I think you know the key to that is to make sure that you keep an ear to the street and a connection to the young people. I'm excited about the relationships that we have. Much programming has begun due to new needs, concepts, and ideas that arise. Next comes the research so that we can make these programs successful.
KENNETH CROWLEY CROWLEYCOLLEGEPREP.COM (720) 935-6465
Can you talk about the value of relationships and mentorship when it comes to impacting the youth? Many people say they want to help, but they can’t make time to help. To do this type of work, you must be passionate about the need and the people that you serve. You have to be an authentic and selfless individual. You have to make sure that your morals and your values are in the right place. This job takes heart! It's not something you do for money. It’s about the people you serve. What is the organization?
core
value
of
your
Our first core value is family. This separates us from other organizations. EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER VICTORIA STONER
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WOMEN'S BEAUTY COLORADO SPRINGS
SALONS & STUDIOS
DEAR MADAME CJ WALKER KELLY SIERRA OWNER & COSMETOLOGIST 2829 DUBLIN BLVD. COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80918 (719) 590-6647 | DEARMADAMEWALKER.COM THE BLACK LIGHT | INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
Where did you get the inspiration to do hair? So my name is Kelly Sierra. The name of the business Dear Madame CJ Walker, LTD. I'm a fourth generation cosmetologist, my great grandmother and grandfather, my mother and father, were all cosmetologists. It was something I tried to avoid, but I really couldn't shake it off. So once I turned 18, I started doing hair at the salon. Where did you the get the inspiration for the name Madame CJ Walker? I wanted something bigger than myself. Madame CJ Walker is an inspiration to me. She was the first self-made AfricanAmerican, female millionaire and she lived right here in Colorado. What are some successes or things you've been excited about since starting your business? We are huge on preserving the integrity of your natural hair, but that doesn't mean just natural styles. We have somebody here that can cater to a little bit of everythingnatural hair, braids, locks, relaxers-we have a stylist who can do it. We're trying to expand, not just hairstyles but other stylists who are going through the journey of Cosmetology. Once you get out of school, it's tough to 64
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find a position, so we bring graduates here, then train them to start their own business. It's unrealistic to think the stylists who work in my shop will work at my shop forever. So we teach them how to market, brand, and build an empire. So no matter where they go, they'll be able to rebuild clientele, because they've already been successful doing it. I also enjoy teaching ladies how to take care of their hair. It's dry in Colorado, so there are specific things we need to do to have healthy hair. So being able to tell clients what products to consider using to figure out what works versus what looks good is also exciting for me. Can you tell us a little about Colorado's hair culture? Colorado is a little slower, which is a good thing and a bad thing. It's a good thing because it gives you the room to hone in on your craft and grow without the pressure of trying to compete in the industry itself. We can pay attention and cater to a client's individual needs well. What is your specialty when it comes to hair? I'm still trying to target a specialty because I do a little bit of everything. I'm known most for seamless sew-ins and the silk press, but I'm still trying to figure out just
what my thing is. I love the industry, period. As I become more of a veteran in the game, I'm starting to like working with natural hair more. What are some valuable hair care tips? Your real hair is something that is never going to go out of style. When it comes to extension services and other services that come and go, it's all a little trendy. The one thing that remains constant is healthy hair; sometimes extensions can help protect hair. So if I'm constantly working to treat your hair, it makes the need for extensions optional, everybody can benefit from the use of extensions. What are the top three tips you would give when it comes to caring for natural hair? Consistency with moisture, especially here in Colorado Springs as the climate is extremely dry. A lot of times the damage we think we see in our hair is a need for moisture. Realizing the balance between moisture and protein is essential. You have to pay attention to your hair. Whatever you're doing to care for your hair, make sure you're doing it consistently. If you can't keep up the consistency, then make sure you find a hair stylist that knows your hair.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER LATOSHA THOMAS
VI S I T O U R 5 0 0 + O N L I N E D I R E CTO RY AT W W W. M Y B L A C K C O L O R A D O . C O M
XPRESSIONS BEAUTY STUDIO LYZA GARDNER OWNER & COSMETOLOGIST XPRESSIONSBEAUTYSTUDIO.COM (719) 217-3395 BEAUTY STUDIO 3239 S ACADEMY BLVD UNIT 120 COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80916 BEAUTY AND BARBER STUDIO 3746 ASTROZON BLVD COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80910 We provide quality products and services for men and women of all ages and ethnicities and specialize in hair extensions. It’s our desire to create a lasting experience for every customer, leaving them feeling amazing and loving their hair.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS Audi I love the atmosphere of this place I ABSOLUTELY love all the stylist when I say I was welcomed with open arms now they stuck with my behind Michelle Lyza is the real deal! She did a beautiful job on my hair!!!! She walks you through step by step on what she is doing with your hair. We had great conversations! She teaches you how to take care of your hair. She is patient, kind, funny and last of all, great at what she does! Thanks again Lyza for making me feel/ look so beautiful Crystal Best hair salon in Colorado Springs! Extremely professional and highly recommend.
Shani I just recently heard about Xpressions through a friend of mine. I was kind of skeptical about going but I'm glad I did. The staff was very friendly and did exactly what I needed them to do. I went to Lyza for a sewin on a Thursday, which she slayed! Then I came back on that following Saturday to have my curls touched up and my makeup done by Maisha for my wedding. I was nervous about getting my makeup done because I'd never gotten it done before but Maisha was confident and made sure that I knew that I was in good hands. Everything all together took a little over an hour but I left out of the salon feeling like 1 million bucks. I would refer anyone to come to Xpressions, you won't be disappointed!
Triva e xpresssions of Colorado springs has fabulous customer service, great, makes you all warm n fuzzy inside thanks to you all so go get your hair ,makeup, just get it done, myesha is my pick she slayed me always but as I sit in the chair I watch them all perfect their skills will not stop won't stop cheers to Cory ,mouse, Taylor, my wonderful creative stylist Meisha, and Mz Liza you definitely lead by example props to you, ohhhh sorry Lil bit your braids is definitely on much love Mrs T Gold Denise UJIMA! is that Bomb Dot Com! I went in she washed and cut my Hair and I Love it and the Best happened MY HUBBY LOVES IT! BOOM!
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WOMEN'S BEAUTY COLORADO SPRINGS
SALONS & STUDIOS TINA'S HAIR & NAIL BOUTIQUE Tina’s Hair & Nail Boutique specializes in ethnic, black, and African American hair care, operating in the Historic Old Colorado City. This full service salon and spa caters to all women of color and is a one stop shop for hair, nails, makeup and more! Tina’s Salon features an extensive Boutique that has everything a woman could want or need! Enjoy a full spa treatment, browse our unique handbags, and then head out on the town looking glamorous!
TINA | OWNER & COSMETOLOGIST 1710 W COLORADO AVE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (719) 205-3620 | TINASHAIRANDNAILS.COM
Tina has always had a passion for bringing beauty into the world. Tina’s talents in the beauty industry inspired her dream to open her own full service salon. She decided to turn those dreams into a reality. In 2003, she opened the doors to Tina’s Hair & Nail Boutique. Today, with over 17 years of experience as the proud Owner of Tina’s Boutique, the salon continues to thrive and Tina is living her dream of making clients feel beautiful and glamorous.
TESTIMONIAL Tina’s hair and Nail Boutique is one of the BEST salons I’ve been to here in Colorado Springs! I’ve been going to Tina’s Hair and Nail boutique for about 2 years now. My hair was very damaged before I came to her. She has brought my hair back healthy and long. She’s very professional and she does not rush when it comes to giving you a perfect hairstyle. I would Highly recommend her salon to anyone! Great service with reasonable prices! - Marquitta 66
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER LATOSHA THOMAS
WOMEN'S BEAUTY COLORADO SPRINGS
CHLOE MADDISON SKIN STUDIO
IMANI'S BENEFICIAL BUTTER
CASHMIYR & RODNEY SCOTT | OWNERS COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 719-582-5470 | CHLOEMADDISONSKIN.COM
Chloe + Maddison Skin is a premier Permanent Makeup Studio specializing in the latest 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!
IMANI DOUGLAS | OWNER & OPERATOR (719) 330-5209 | FB.COM/IMANISBNFCLBTTR
As an empathetic and caring person; I have always felt called to try and make the world a better place. I hope to do that through encouraging people to be more conscious of their lifestyle choices, and how they affect their overall health. Living a natural lifestyle has always been a big part of my life; both growing up and as an adult. As a child, my mother would have us use olive oil and cocoa butter to moisturize. It is something that has influenced me throughout my life. Since the skin is the largest organ in the body, it should get special treatment. However many everyday hair, face, and body products have harmful chemicals that get introduced into our bodies through the skin. My natural lifestyle has provided the tools I needed to start a business I am passionate about, Imani’s Beneficial Butter. I am very excited for what the future holds and opportunities to come. MYBLACKCOLORADO
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MEN'S GROOMING COLORADO SPRINGS
BARBERING
A HEAD OF CLASS
BARBER SHOP INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR EARNEST JONES I am a licensed barber and cosmetologist. I have been in the hair industry for over 10 years. I have always wanted to cut hair my whole life but never really had the time to do it. Upon my return from Iraq, I took advantage of an opportunity to enroll in barber school. Afterwards, I managed a salon for a couple of years, and now, I teach barbering and cosmetology at the international salon and spa academy. I think it's pretty cool to have the ability to take something that you're good at and be able to help someone else achieve the same thing. You know, there is no satisfaction like that! Where do you see this industry headed? There is no choice but to go up. It's kind of like the shoe game. Everybody always needs shoes. Everybody's going to always need a haircut. It's just one of those industries that won't be falling off anytime soon. How does this industry benefit the black community? I think the industry is big enough for anybody: black, white, green or purple, that wants to get into the industry. Being a young black entrepreneur, I felt that it was essential to establish myself, first, in the community. It's not about self. It is about your community. A lot of people tend to make a mistake and think self before community. I think it's important to be there for your community because those are the people that are going to support you.
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EARNEST JONES CO-OWNER & BARBER
What are some tips for someone considering getting into the industry? Don't think that it's an overnight process that will catapult you into success. You have to work to be successful in any industry, not just this one. If this is what you want to do don't let a little adversity stop you from moving forward and going towards the goal. I don't know anyone in this career that doesn't have some personal sacrifice they need to do to make it. Finally, just put God first, let him make a way for you. What are some specific things that you teach in the school? We have a variety of different programs at my school from hair, to the skin, to nails. For the barber program, we have a couple 1500 hour programs. We have full-time programs, part-time programs, morning, afternoon, and evening classes. We can fit your schedule to help you get certified.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER
NICHOLAS CRURCHER
VI S I T O U R 5 0 0 + O N L I N E D I R E CTO RY AT W W W. M Y B L A C K C O L O R A D O . C O M
2214 ACADEMY PL. COS ,CO 80909 | (571) 330-8199 FB.COM/AHEADOFCLASSBARBERSHOP
BRUCE SIMON
CO-OWNER & BARBER INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR BRUCE SIMON I've been cutting hair for about 10 years. I first started cutting my children's hair when I was in the military. I have three boys who gave me plenty of practice. Once I got out the military, I went to school to get licensed. I have been cutting hair ever since. How did you get your license? Well, with the military they had the GI bill. I was able to utilize it when I got out the military. My school was already paid for. I also applied for the Pell Grant and things like that, which I qualified for as well. I went fulltime, and I went to the International Salon Spa Academy here in Colorado Springs. I finished in about a year. When it came to you starting your own shop, how was that transition? It was a hard one for the simple fact that that there are other barbers in the city has been established and the doing this longer than I have, their clientele is way up there. Luckily for me, I was cutting the military. I had a steady clientele. I think maybe I had like 20 people when I was in school. So it was very challenging for me going to school and balancing my
business because I couldn't cut hair in my shop because I wasn't licensed. I could only manage it, so I started posting a lot on social media, advertising, and getting referrals from my clients. I went from twenty people to a hundred and then fifty clients. I have regulars that come in every week to get their hair cut. I also have clients that come in every two weeks, and it's based off the military pay schedule. We have certain clients that come in, to get facial services done. And you know, we do the Black Mask treatment. They love that service. Some people don't have hair, so we provide hot lather head shapes or facial shapes, a 45-minute service. Our clients are comfortable, and it's just a relaxing environment when they come in and get services done.
Do your staff offer Specialties like in salons, or is it more-so everyone does everything? Our goal is for everyone to do what everybody else can do. If I'm able to do something like design, black mass treatments or facials, the end result is for everyone to be able to do what I can do and vice versa. This makes us more dynamic as far as our capabilities at the shop. One of the main things a lot of our clients say all the time, " It's the only shop that I can go to in Colorado Springs if my barber is not here. They can go to any other Barber and know that my hair is going to be taken care of as if my original Barber was there." That speaks volumes to us and makes us, work harder and strive to do better every day.
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MEN'S FASHION COLORADO SPRINGS
FORMAL ATTIRE THE MENS EXCHANGE INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR How and why did you start your business? I've been working in employment for probably 15 years of my life, helping people get jobs or get skills to obtain employment. I noticed that there are many resources available to help women dress professionally either at a discounted price or at no cost, but it was harder to find the same type of resources for men. I wanted to do something that benefits the community. I also wanted to do it at a discounted price, and make sure that we could help those men who couldn't help themselves. How are you able to provide suits for discounted prices? Everything in our shop is donated. Once it's been donated, we set it up for dry cleaning. We then merchandise and put everything out for sale. Everything in our shop is $40 or less. We do full suits at $40, sports jackets at $30, shirts at $10, and flax at $10. So, everything ends up being literally about onetenth the price of what you can get at other retail facilities. We also do full measurements and a whole fit session with all the men that come through, so they get a boutique experience. They pay 1/10th the price and then for every 9 men who shop with us; we're able to dress one man in our community at no cost. These men are referred to us through the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Center for Veterans. Our nonprofit partners, like Reach Pikes Peak, decide when they have someone that they believe is in need and ready, and they send them over to us to dress those men at no cost. So, it allows us to help the general population at a discounted price, and then take care of those men in our community who could not financially take care of themselves.
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JAMES PROBY THE MEN'S EXCHANGE 409 NORTH TEJON COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903 (719) 418-3372 THEMENSXCHANGE.COM
What do you think is the value of men dressing professionally? Our society has gotten worse over time. We now have two generations of men who have no idea how to dress professionally. The majority don't know how to tie a tie. It's just a stunning statement, but it's the reality of the universe we live in right now. We've got men who sincerely believe that it’s just absolutely okay for them to wear gym apparel everywhere. They think it's okay to wear sweats and a hoodie and athletic shoes to every single event that they attend. The idea is first to help our men dress better and present better. We have a different level of confidence when we present ourselves in a better way. It impacts our whole community. We have an opportunity to show up in a different way, and I’m excited that we have a location where you can get that knowledge that you didn't have access to before, and to get clothing and help that you didn't have before. It is absolutely fantastic, and I can tell you that all the men that we get a chance to connect with, come back. They love the fact that they get to do this. The best part is when I get to see them out in the community just dressed differently, and walking with confidence.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER
JESSICA FORD
What would you say to the younger generation to motivate them to dress better? We’ve talked to a bunch of transitioning soldiers. We work with three different transitioning military groups that host events. The thing that I say to all of them is to raise their hand and tell me who in the room is prejudiced, and to a man, all of them leave their hands down. I explain to them that prejudice means to be prejudged and that their nonverbal communications and prejudice are two different things. But all of us prejudge the individuals around us every single day. We judge individuals within the first 45 seconds of seeing them, and they have the ability to impact that. I can change that by putting on a pair of glasses. I can change that by putting on a tie. I can change that by putting on a jacket. I can change that by ironing my clothes. And when we explain to young men that, they understand. When you look like a criminal, I don't care what color your skin is. When you look like a criminal, and you show up representing criminalistic behavior, I’m not inviting you into my life. I'm not supporting you. I'm not encouraging you to go out with my daughter. I'm not inviting you to my church. I'm not inviting you into my business. I'm not giving you a job. You have the ability to make those changes, and it is incumbent upon you to decide how you want to represent yourself.
Have you had any success stories? It is 100% success stories in here. We don't have just a couple; we have a thousand of them. The very first man that we ever dressed at no cost was a cancer survivor. He was living homeless. He ended up getting a place to stay and run an art gallery. Soon after that, he got an award for the growth and change that he accomplished. He’s now one of the rising stars in our community. This all happened within 12 months of him coming and seeing us. It had less to do with us, and more to do with the fact that once he started presenting himself in a better way, people could see him and see the talents that he provides. You are impacting the community and helping people out. Thank you for what you're doing. Oh man. I'm excited. But this is something we could not do if the entire community didn't start to buy in on this. If they didn't donate their clothes here, we couldn't do this. If they didn't come and shop here, we couldn't do this. So, the most significant ways that we can continue to make an impact is when we have individuals who come to our place and donate their clothes, shop with us and refer people over to us. It makes a huge difference.
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SPORTS & FITNESS COLORADO SPRINGS
DANCE LATISHA HARDY DANCE & COMPANY 1795 JET STREAM DR SUITE 106 COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO (801) 499-7879 LATISHAHARDY.COM
“I am a professional dancer, and I own a
studio. I teach anywhere f rom beginner level to pre-professional adult dancers in various styles of Latin dances. We are getting more into pop and more traditional dances like ballet, modern, Brazilian and break dancing. The overall goal is to diversify the curriculum to give people
LATISHA HARDY
a wide range of body movement. I also host
PROFESSIONAL DANCER
social events around town so people can have
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
fun, practice what they're learning and also be social, hanging out and making new f riends.”
How did you get started?
I did ballet and gymnastics when I was young, but I focused
on basketball from about six all the way through high school. I even earned a scholarship to play basketball in college, but I still had a passion for dance. I didn't start seriously dancing until I was in my early 20s. I stuck with it, worked hard and became a professional. Now l get invited to places all over the nation. That is exciting, and I want to inspire and empower people to keep dancing no matter what.
No matter your age, color, size or any of those things that
we think are inhibitors, we can still be successful and happy in our lives. I used dance to get out of an abusive relationship. So for me, dancing gave me my life back and my passion. I want to be able to do that for anybody. It doesn't mean that you have to be coming out of an abusive relationship. But maybe you're just going through something that is hard in your life. I'm here to inspire people to go after what they want in life, and I do that through the medium of dance because that's my passion. How do you help new people feel welcomed?
We get people who are curious or interested in dance; we
offer preview sessions to show people what it is that we do. We try to make things safe and welcoming as possible to get people to start overcoming their fear of dancing.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
As
an
entrepreneur
and
dancing
professional, what advice would you give to people who want to be in your industry?
I would encourage them heavily to
pursue and understand business. You can be very talented but dont forget that your talent is your service and it is your business. If you don't have any knowledge based on what it means to run a business, you're not going to be very successful. One of the main reasons why most artists fail is because they don’t know how to sell themselves. I have a master's degree in business. As I was studying, i knew I need to figure out how to make this work because I refuse to be a starving artist or the broke dancer. Everyone seems to think that about artists, which is true. It’s because of the ignorance and not understanding what it means to run a business. It's not just about being a dynamic artist, but a dynamic individual as well. Where do you see your business headed?
I definitely would like a larger studio.
I see being able to franchise what I'm doing. I want to have a dance school that has a high level of technique where anyone can come and get quality training. I see myself traveling all over the world and still having my studio home base. Then I also see me training dancers on the business side of things, so that they can run their business. Who is your ideal customer?
There are a lot of youth programs out
there, but there aren’t many adult programs. We try to support adult dancers because it doesn't matter how old you are. You can still learn something and have fun. A lot of dance studios do not cater to adults. It’s harder to learn how to dance as an adult because we've already experienced so much life and many times there's a lot of pain and regret that comes with it. We work hard to overcome things like that.
"Dancing gave me my life back and my passion." MYBLACKCOLORADO
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SPORTS & FITNESS COLORADO SPRINGS
BOXING SANTIAGO'S BOXING CLUB 818 PIKES PEAK AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80909 719-232-0206| FB.COM/SANTIAGOSBOXINGCLUB719 Santiago's Boxing Club of Colorado Springs took 5 young boxers to Salt Lake City, Utah to compete in the Youth and Elite USA Nationals December 1-8th. (Jerone Penrose III - 8 yrs. old; Taylor Penrose - 11 yrs. old; Starr Penrose - 12 yrs. old; Troy Nash - 13 yrs. old; Conner Nelson - 15 yrs. old) Jerone Penrose III and Starr Penrose lost close bouts in the semi-finals. Jerone Penrose is now ranked sixth nationally in his weight class, and Starr Penrose is ranked fifth. Conner Nelson lost a close match in the quarterfinals and is currently ranked tenth nationally in his weight class. Taylor Penrose and Troy Nash both won the National tournament and are currently ranked number 1 nationally in their weight classes. The battle for these young athletes started long before the competition. On the way to Utah, the team van broke down 3 hours away from the event. The team had to come together to stay warm, while the coaches worked on getting assistance. After a 2 hour delay, the coaches were able to get the van started long enough to get to a mechanic shop to get the team van fixed. The team made it to the venue just in time to get checked in. We have a very talented group of young athletes. Troy Nash has been training with Santiago's for nine years. Within those years he has become an 11-time State Champion and a 7-time National Champion. He ranked #1 5-times competing in the Silver Gloves, 3-times in the Junior Golden Gloves, 2-times in the Junior Olympics and 1-time at the Western Qualifier. Starr Penrose is 12 years old, and she is a USA Boxing National Champion, Silver Gloves National Champion, and Golden Gloves National Champion. She placed 2nd at the Western Qualifier and is a 2-time State Champion ranking #5 in her weight class. Her sister, Taylor Penrose, is 11 years old and is also USA Boxing Nationals Champion, a 2-time State Champion ranking #1 in her weight class and ranked #1 at the Western Qualifier. Their brother, Jerone Penrose III, at 8 years old is a State Champion and is currently ranked number 6 at his weight class nationally after only 4 bouts. Santiago’s Boxing Club has a tradition of creating champions with a total of 9 champions since the founding of the Club. Santiago's Boxing Club is dedicated to changing the lives of youth within Colorado Springs. The violent loss of one of our up and coming boxers has motivated this club, even more, to continue to make champions and keeping our children in the ring instead of the streets.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER DOMINIQUE CONNER
SPORTS & FITNESS COLORADO SPRINGS
FITNESS INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
PERRELL WILLIAMS | FITNESS & SPORTS COACH INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR How did you get into fitness coaching? I have five kids of my own. When we got out here to Colorado Springs, they immediately start playing sports at a local recreation center. I would show up to support my kids, and I saw the way coaches were training their players. There was a massive gap in training fundamentals. The coaches were trying to get the kids to do certain things, but they were not able to because they didn't know how to teach the fundamentals. These kids need to learn the fundamentals to be able to compete at a high level.
Why do you do what you ? My brother and I started Peak City Athletics. We are Colorado natives who grew up in the city, and we've played collegiate sports. I also am a high school sports coach. My brother and I realized that there was a lack of specialized JEFFREY COOKS training in the areas of football FITNESS & SPORTS COACH and basketball in Colorado Springs. We wanted to come in PEAK CITY ATHLETICS and have a positive impact and PEAKCITYATHLETICS.COM help. We have high participation numbers in Colorado Springs, but the participation doesn' t always lead to collegiate scholarships. We're haven't been producing enough high-level athletes out of the area even though the talent is here, and its a great place to train. We need to focus more on development What does your organization focus on? We are a multifaceted organization. We develop athletes to compete at the next level. We do community events to help raise funds for different community organizations. And we do consulting for some of the athletes that do break through, helping them market and present themselves the right way. Where do you see your organization headed? We want to secure a permanent facility to train out of, launch a football camp this summer for youth and high school athletes, and grow in our community outreach programs that raise support for local organizations.
PRACTICAL TIPS: For kids I tell the kids to fall in love with the process. There's not an overnight success type of deal. You have to make sure that you take care of the inside of the body. You can train hard and won’t see a change if you aren’t eating the right foods. You need to eat healthy so you can perform at a high level. For coaches: Build quality relationships with the kids. When you have that strong connection with them, they trust you, believe in you and the system that you are bringing in. For parents: Choose a good trainer for your kids, and then trust the trainer. Trust the whole process and the system that they're bringing in. This allows the trainer to do their assessment, sit back and watch your child develop.
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MEDICAL AURORA
PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR How did your industry get started? My industry got started when the Public Health Services began working with Tuskegee Institute in 1932. The very first study recorded in history was syphilis. In this study, 600 black males, were studied throughout 40 years. During this period, these men were never given adequate treatment. When treatment became, available patients weren’t adequately informed about the extent of the study. In 1972, the study was deemed ethically unjustified and ceased immediately. The patients that participated in this study, including their families, were given reparations. This event was the catalyst to birth the Declaration of Helsinki. The Declaration of Helsinki set the expectations of ethical principles for human experimentation in the medical community. To protect people’s rights, even further patients were required to sign an informed consent document that explains the clinical research. The safeguards that have been enacted are the main reason that I have the job I have today. What I do ensures the FDA guidelines are followed and those principles are upheld when conducting any medical study. There is an overabundance of distrust in the black community toward medical professionals because of the Tuskegee experiments. Why is it important for black people to continue to participate in medical research? Drugs used to be developed in a broad spectrum, one size fits all, and now they are being created more to be precise to genetic makeup. Drugs affect people differently because of the individual’s genetic makeup. Black people typically refuse participation in medical research studies due to the negative stigma of previous experiences. Regardless if black people participate in research trials, drugs are still being created without knowing the effects the drugs could potentially have on black people. With 90% of medical research being conducted on white people, there is insufficient data on how these drugs can affect black people. Black people wind up getting a prescription for a drug that can hopefully treat a condition, but could also be ineffective, or have adverse side effects. It is critical for people of color to get involved in clinical research as a patient, or investigator. Our young people need to understand how the profession works, as well as our older generations. At the end of the day, your doctor is going to write you a prescription thinking the drug will work for you, disregarding the potential drug not being tested on a person of color. When drugs are first placed on the market, there are so many unknowns of how the drug will affect a black person. We need to be as prepared as possible.
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ORION RESEARCH SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL
CURTIS POWELL PRESIDENT/CEO
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
MEDICAL
COLORADO SPRINGS
EMERGENCY SERVICES ALL YOUR HEART CPR LAURA EDWARDS | CPR INSTRUCTOR COLORADO SPRINGS, CO | 719-639-5299 ALLYOURHEARTCPR.COM INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
What led you to become an EMT and CPR instructor? I have always had a fascination for the human body and how it is put together; both anatomy and physiology. My curiosity led me to emergency medical services. At first, I was a 9-1-1 operator at the Sheriff’s Office, but the job was very high stress. I wanted to work with people while being outdoors. EMT was the perfect fit for me. While I was working EMT, an opportunity presented itself for me to become a CPR instructor. During this course, I became an American Heart Association authorized CPR instructor and obtained my certification from the health and safety institute. This means that I’m certified to train health care providers and lay persons. how long did it take to get all those certifications? It didn't take me a very long time because I already had a background in emergency medical care. For somebody else coming from no experience in emergency medical care, it may take up to a year. What is an important topic covered in your CPR classes? One of the main things to know is recognizing when someone is in sudden cardiac arrest. Every human that is created has a biological pacemaker called the heart. The heart fires off these little electrical charges, and those charges are responsible for sending a signal through the ventricles that are connected to the heart. The ventricles pump blood throughout the body 24/7. When a person is sick, under extreme stress, or other duress’s the electrical system of the heart goes haywire and the heart stops pumping blood immediately. If this occurs, the person instantly stops talking, suddenly collapse, or slump over. This is how you can recognize cardiac arrest. Someone who is in cardiac arrest needs CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) immediately while help is called. Every minute CPR isn’t applied the individual’s chance of surviving decreases by 7%. Call 9-1-1, and if available, access the AED (Automated External Defibrillator). An AED analyzes heart rhythm and provides a shock to the heart in the hopes of jumpstarting it. AED’s are easy to use. If you are given an AED, turn it on and it will tell you exactly what you need to do to save that person’s life.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
LAURA EDWARDS CPR INSTRUCTOR
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MEDICAL
COLORADO SPRINGS
MIDWIFE
A MOTHER'S CHOICE MIDWIFERY DEMETRA SERIKI | MIDWIFE 2130 ACADEMY CIRCLE, SUITE D COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80909 (719) 425-2631 | AMCMBIRTH.COM
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you became a midwife? I was born and raised right here in Colorado Springs. I was also a teenage mom. I was 16 when I had my first child. I loved being around babies and would take opportunities to be with my friends at their child’s birth, for support. Fast forward 15 years later, I still had a passion for being around young, soon to be mothers. I decided to do a career change. I started going to school and clinical training to become a midwife. I am a certified professional Midwife. I attend births that are done at home or the hospital and walk alongside the families. These families are looking for somebody who is a good listener, who will spend time with them and can clearly articulate the common terms of the risks and benefits of the choices they are making. Giving birth makes women vulnerable. I made a decision that here, in my city, I will do all that I can to help. I strive to make a difference not only in the birthing process but also working hand in hand with different agencies to decrease black infant mortality.
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Is infant mortality a big issue in the black community? Infant mortality is a severe problem in black communities. We used to be told that black women have high-risk pregnancies because we were unhealthy and poorly educated. It was also blamed on the us, that we are a part of the lower Echelon in life. Well, we now know that this is entirely false. There’s no truth behind that. These deaths cannot be contributed to social, economic status, or education when compared to our white peers. The evidence that has been found is black families are inherently exposed to higher levels of stress. Higher stress the amount of cortisol in the body. It doesn’t help to have babies early either. Blend this all together, and these factors contribute to our infant mortality rate being triple the number of our white counterparts. These numbers don’t affect just El Paso County, but every county in the United States of America. What are some other factors that might contribute to higher infant mortality rates? Additional factors that contribute to a higher infant mortality rate are certain birth control drugs. There are some that cause more significant risk to black women’s reproductive health system. Unfortunately, many times the medical community overlooks the effects these drugs can have on a cellular level in black people. Some drugs aren’t compatible with a person of color’s body. The black body is unique on a genetic level; carrying epigenetic stresses that are passed down from our mothers. We can’t bury our head in the ground. There’s plenty of scientific evidence to support this theory.
What are the top five things women should focus on during pregnancy? #1 Find a provider that you are comfortable with and is sensitive to your needs. It's essential that your voice is heard, and that your medical provider connects with you. We have some providers that still believe that black women's pain tolerance is higher. Those doctors might not be so quick to give us pain medication during the first stage of labor. It’s barbaric when you think about it. #2 Express your concerns. One of the biggest worries documented is pregnant women dont express their concerns to their providers for fear of being judged. Another fear is not being heard. It’s insane, but it’s also a hard truth we deal with. #3 It’s essential that women recognize some of their habits need to change. Small modifications in lifestyle could ultimately save their baby’s life, including their own. #4 Know your rights as a pregnant woman and have someone who will advocate for you. Plan ahead because once you are in active labor, the right and left side of the brain don’t communicate well. It becomes increasingly difficult to communicate efficiently or think clearly. #5 Find you a community-based health worker. This is why they are here. There is a handful of us in El Paso County, including workers of color. With finding a community health worker, they can help you navigate the system; believe me, it is a system. The system is structurally oppressive for women of color.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
"Know your rights as a pregnant woman and have someone who will advocate for you." Do you find that black health professionals are more aware and sensitive than their white counterparts? It depends. I have found people of color are more sensitive and aware. They want to be helpful, but they are also under the pressure of the system, structure, or whatever organization that they work with. The majority of the providers, who are of color, that I’m aware of in El Paso County work within an organization. They are less likely to spend the time needed to help you navigate the system because they have to earn a paycheck. There are rules they must follow, but they’re more compassionate. They also tend to understand your common complaints and help you modify your daily lifestyle because the complexities and stresses you face. They usually are more understanding. Do we need more midwives of color? I am proud to say that black and indigenous midwives birthed the nation. Long before there were OBGYNs, we had midwives that were catching babies as they were birthed; and also keeping those
babies alive in various ways; herbal remedy, wet-nursing, you name it. These women usually were midwives at the detriment of their own children dying. The main reason being, they were slaves. During the turn of the century, medicines were introduced, and the practice of being a midwife declined. At that time there was a massive wave to get midwives out of practice by saying it’s illegal. Many midwives were illiterate, but masters of their trade. We went from having six thousand midwives to just a few hundred. At this point, there are very few people of color in the midwife field. Currently, there is a push to have more midwives of color; it’s a nationwide problem. Black people tend to look for another black person. If someone was trying to get into that industry what do they need to do? I would strongly recommend you look at three designations. The first designation is to be a certified nurse midwife; look up the requirements for a Nursing degree. You’d be looking at four years of grad school, and then undergrad for midwifery; that can be a long process. You could also
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER BRITTNEY MULLETT
become a licensed Midwife; the downside is you are not a licensed RA. I believe only five states currently recognize the designation. They are all on the East Coast. The third option is a certified professional Midwife. I have this type of credential, which gives you more flexibility. You can do it that way, or you can get your bachelors degree in Midwifery. You can do your clinical work alongside your didactic and pass the national exam. Do your homework and look at the three different credentials to see which one would work best for you and your family. Where do you see yourself headed in the future? My future goal is to establish my own birthing facility. The first step I’m taking is getting authority from Dora to change our definition from homebirth midwife to outof-hospital midwife. Once that definition is changed, I don’t see anything that will hold me back. I also want to help the students that come to Colorado to train with me several times a year. I’m especially committed to the black students. I’m committed to developing more midwives; that’s my passion.
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HEALTH &WELLNESS COLORADO SPRINGS
MASSAGE THERAPY STRUCTURE THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE & BODYWORK, INC. 2137 N. ACADEMY BLVD. COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO (719) 358-8653 | STRUCTUREBODYWORK.COM INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR I love what I do. To be able to play a part in someone’s healing is an incredible feeling. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. We now work alongside doctors, chiropractors, and surgeons to help patients in their recovery. It’s amazing to see the healing effects of massage therapy. I’ve treated clients who struggle with limited ranges of motion such as in their shoulders, for instance. But, by the end of their session, they have progressed to a full range of motion which is so rewarding! They’re able to hold their kids again or wave goodbye. This is what healing means to me. What I love most about massage therapy is that it is a natural process through which the body heals itself. Through different application techniques, we can lessen your pain with fewer side effects than you would experience with medication. It’s good to see that more and more insurance companies are coming to this realization. As well, more doctors are prescribing massage therapy as an integral part of a patient’s recovery regimen.
JEANETTE FALU-BISHOP OWNER & MASSAGE THERAPIST
A LEAP OF FAITH - ARTICLE BY NATHAN
NATHANS MASSAGE 2810 FERBER DR. COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO (719) 494-3621 MASSAGE-BY-NATHAN.ABMP.COM
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On December 30, 2016, I finally chose to walk away from my job. It was perhaps the only consistent thing in my life. I had worked as a massage therapist for nearly five years when I began to feel stuck and underappreciated. I realized I wanted more out of life and could no longer grow in that environment. I debated whether to venture to open my own massage studio for several months. Finally, I decided to take a leap of faith. Although my mind was set to leave, I felt ambivalent about submitting my two-week notice. I questioned whether I should wait another year, or until I received my tax return. Suddenly, I realized, that the more I questioned my decision, the more my resolve weakened. I had to just do it, and I did! The major problem was that I didn’t have a business plan, no start-up money, and none in savings. As well, I’d just purchased my first home six months prior, and I had a oneyear-old daughter. To overcome my anxiety about these things, I transmuted my fear into motivation. I had to succeed for fear of losing my home and failing to provide for my daughter. Indeed, the first year [after quitting]
was hell. I thought many times about going back to work. I applied for a job as a masseuse at a local resort. Though I attended three interviews, I never got a callback. Fast forwarding to today, I’m proud to report that I have now successfully run my own business for almost two years despite the setbacks. Admittedly, I am still not where I want to be, but I’m getting there. A lot of people I thought had my back are nowhere to be found. This helped me understand; not everyone wants to see me do well. Becoming an entrepreneur has been one of the most difficult and rewarding things in my life. It’s certainly not for everyone. In retrospect, I am very thankful I have a skill that is marketable. It has allowed me to make a living and take care of my princess. Through this journey, I have met great people and garnered tremendous support. I thank God for giving me a vision and for the strength to do better. I appreciate my clients and all who support Nathan’s Massage. I’m excited about the future. I feel it can only get better with time!
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
HEALTH &WELLNESS COLORADO SPRINGS
PSYCHOLOGY DR. ANTHONY P. YOUNG PSYCHOLOGIST AND PROFESSOR
What are some tips you would offer to people looking to improve their mental health?
I grew up in a single-parent household in the projects on the Southside of Chicago. I reasoned that if I could solve my own problems, I might be skilled enough to help others. So, I decided to pursue a career in psychology.
1) Identify what fear you have that keeps you from achieving the things you seek to accomplish. If you can face those fears and overcome them, that it will free up a lot of energy to address other challenges in life.
I’ve been practicing mental health in Colorado for over forty years. I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology which I obtained from the University of Denver. As well, I have been teaching Psychology courses for twenty-six years at the University of Colorado.
2) It’s essential that people have a positive selfconcept. God does not make mistakes. All of us are here for a purpose. We all have unique, God-given strengths and abilities. We must tap into them. 3) Know your history. Know that we stand on the shoulders of giants. Always remember the ancestors who have died so we can be free to seize the opportunities available to us today. When we realize who and what we are connected to, we can draw strength from that.
In the past, I partnered with the Department of Corrections and the Mental Health Institute in Pueblo, where I treated the criminally insane in maximum security prisons. Furthermore, I’ve been Chairman of The State parole board. I launched a charter school for high-risk minorities in Colorado Springs. Currently, I fulfill the role as president of the Denver Rocky Mountain Association of Black Psychologists. INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
How did you come to be a founding member and former president of the Association of Black Psychologists? Many of the founding members of the American Psychological Association were eugenicists, essentially White supremacists. Many United States policies concerning the housing and education of African-Americans were constructed upon the skewed models that eugenicists created. So, rather than appeal to the White Psychologist association, we decided to form our own independent organization in 1968. The association of Black Psychologists foremost serves as an arena in which we focus on addressing the mental health needs of the Black community. We have mentored hundreds of African American psychology students and assisted early career professionals to become established in the field of psychology.
What would you say is the primary mental health issue in the Black community?
4) If you break your arm, you’re going to go to a physician and get that bone reset. Being able to recognize when you need help is critical, and you must seek it out. We want you to live a fulfilling life.
Dr. David Satcher, former US Surgeon General, wrote the first report on mental health. His report stated the number one mental health challenge in America is depression. Assuming this information is accurate, we must consider that less than 1% of all psychologists in the nation are AfricanAmerican. This means there’s a real need for us to have more Black psychologists who are trained and willing to assist with depression in African-American communities across the nation. Black people deal with racism and White supremacy every day of our lives. The weight of such stress takes its toll on us all. It manifests in anger, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, it’s essential that we have enough African-American professionals to address our issues because by and large, White universities do not address cross-cultural issues. Nor are psychotherapy and psychological evaluations for cross-cultural issues, taught during the training of students. This means the burden is ours to address.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
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HOLISTIC SENSUALITY THE VENUS COLLECTIVE
The Venus Collective is a community of women on a mission to empower
our community to live holistically. We believe that when a woman is empowered, awakened, and liberated, she can impact her community in an extremely positive way. We believe this world can get better through an army of empowered and awakened women.
SAMMIE BLAQUE
HYPNOTHERAPIST & YOGA INSTRUCTOR JOINTHEV.CO INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
We experience the world through our senses.
I find that most women who join our community are exhausted, overworked, overwhelmed, and anxious. They feel disconnected from their emotions and bodies. Through the simplest techniques, I teach women how to renew themselves. Lessons include how to savor food when eating, appreciating the textures of things you touch, or using sacred movements like yoga or dance.
At the end of the day, we aspire to help
women get reacquainted with their emotions, their physicality, and their society. We call this, “wholistic sensuality.”
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
HEALTH &WELLNESS AURORA
ACUPUNCTURE What is the history of acupuncture in the Black community?
INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
How does acupuncture work? Acupuncture is the process of inserting very fine needles into the body at specific pressure points to generate a reactionary change. When you insert a foreign object into the body beyond the protective layer of skin, the body’s immune system responds. It sends white blood cells to kill infection and red blood cells which transfer oxygen and regenerate tissue. When someone has a pain unrelated to an injury, it could be that their brain turned on a pain signal. It won’t shut off until the signal is interrupted. Inserting a metal object into a pain point can be the interfering signal required to reset the circuits in the nerve endings in the brain. I always tell my patients that acupuncture stimulates the body to do what it’s naturally supposed to.
Is acupuncture an accepted form of treatment in the medical community? It is becoming increasingly popular. There are some hospitals now using acupuncture to alleviate pain. As well, the VA has incorporated acupuncture treatments in the care of veterans. It’s used a lot to treat PTSD. The downside to this is the medical industry trying acupuncture and Chinese medicine while excluding the practitioner.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER PORSHA STUCKEY
A group of eight Black Panthers went to China to study acupuncture. They learned about the specific points on the ears that could be penetrated to thwart heroine addiction. At that time, Black soldiers were coming back from deployment with opioid addictions. Black people weren’t receiving the best care at that time, so they started making pop-up clinics wherein acupuncture was commonly used. That’s how the first community acupuncture clinics began in America. Today it has been proven that those same pressure points on the ears, can be stimulated for any addiction. It’s effective because acupuncture settles the nervous system.
RHONDA COLEMAN ACUPUNCTURIST 1445 DAYTON ST. AURORA, CO 80010 720-900-4315 | WATERMAMA.ORG
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CANNABIS
LEE SINGLETON INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
What you do and and why? I came here from Chicago in 2009 after doing exhaustive research on what state was going to be the first to legalize marijuana. I correctly picked Colorado from news reports and arrived here ahead of the pack. Once they did legalize, I was the first black person to open a medical marijuana office to service marijuana red cards. A few years later I began a dispensary and started the Super Bud Bowl. How does cannabis impact our economy? Medical and recreational marijuana has been a revenue juggernaut for Colorado. And at this point, we are a multi-billion dollar industry, driving school funding and infrastructure repairs of all kinds. What are you doing to change the perception society has of cannabis? Marijuana is a much safer alternative than alcohol for recreational substance usage. It's been a struggle to get acceptance for recreational marijuana use on the same level as alcohol use, and that's where the Super Bud Bowl events and Super Southern Colorado Bud Bowlers Association come in. Our mission is to normalize the perception of cannabis in our population. There are still a lot of professional and laypeople that hold on to the stigmas placed on marijuana in the ‘70s. People associate marijuana use with laziness and various behaviors of addicts. So it's our job to change those perspectives. One of the things that the Super Bud Bowl events do is to create a record of events being held in the state
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SUPER BUD BOWL & NONSTOP WELLNESS RETREAT (719) 545-6498 | FB.COM/ SUPERBUDBOWL719
that are safe, compliant events. This is the way to normalize our industry in the eyes of municipal governments and the citizenry.
something for which we want to keep the pressure on our lawmakers to make happen.
Are there some unique challenges for African-Americans entering the cannabis industry? Well, there are always unique challenges for black people because of our low net worth as compared to other ethnicities in the country. And so we don't have the net worth to invest in businesses traditionally. We can't get the kind of loans that are needed usually to start up a cannabis-based business. Also, we tend to be less interested in relocating despite economic opportunities available in different regions of the country. A lot of us are traditionally from the South and remain stuck in the South even though prospects are very bright elsewhere in the country. The industry is 95% white. But our presence is increasing in the field through jobs outside of ownership, such as budtenders, trimmers managers and positions like that. There's been a steady increase in black participation in the industry, but not necessarily at the ownership level.
Can you see this industry benefiting the black community? The legalization of cannabis is allowing an entirely new class, not race, but a class of people to become empowered and wealthy. This has never happened before in the recent history of the country. And so people who usually would have no route to excel beyond middle class can now open companies or work at companies that do allow them to become wealthy — that kind of mobility in the workforce in amazing. Black people need to broaden their horizons from their traditional occupations of barbers, nightclub owners, and restaurant owners to take advantage of new opportunities like this.
Do you have an opinion about the disproportionate amount of black people who are in jail today for something that is now legal? Well, it's just the way things are in America, where, ironically, a substance that has been the cause for arrest for mainly black people has now been made a legal sales opportunity for primarily white people. Municipalities and states are now looking at retroactive expungement for marijuana offenses, and so that's
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER THOMAS MCCLINTOCK
LEGAL SYSTEM COLORADO SPRINGS
COMMUNITY REINTEGRATION INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR Nobody ever tells you how hard it is going to be with an adult criminal record. When I got out of prison, I was determined to get my life back on the right track. I applied for many jobs and went on many interviews. At many of the interviews, I was hired on the spot, only to come to find out later that the potential employer “went in another direction” after they were made aware of my criminal background. To society, it doesn‘t seem to matter if you changed your life around. Once a criminal, always a criminal. But people change, I changed. I did not want
to turn to illegal ways of making money like so many In my situation feel like they are forced to do, I wanted to do things the right way, and it seemed like the only thing to do is start my own business. So that‘s what I did. A grew up here, and I had a connection, I knew how to network. I was confident that I could get things moving pretty quickly. But over time I continued to run into roadblocks. It seemed like the more I strived to get ahead. The more people were trying to hold me back. My own community seemed to be at odds with each other,
likes crabs in a barrel, all bringing each other down so that they could get to the top. I decided to do my own thing, start from the bottom and build up, developing my own team, making my own moves. Yes it is hard, yes their days I feel like giving up, but I have people counting on me to succeed, I am relying on myself to succeed. My life decisions have put me in the position, and it seems like I'm the only one that can get myself out. I have a vision I have a plan, and with Gods help, we are going to make it to the top. - ANONYMOUS
TAKING CARE OF FAMILIES Dollz4Dollz When I was five years old, my father was incarcerated. Not knowing or understanding how long he would be gone I use to think any minute he would be coming back through the door to get me ready for bed and to read me a book as he did nightly. Unfortunately those minutes turned into years. It was making summers, holidays and birthdays without him hard for me. With the support and love from my family, I turned sadness into something to help myself and others. In 2010 I created Dollz4Dollz where I give little girls Dollz that have incarcerated father. My Dollz helped me get through the difficult times while my father was away. I could talk to my dolls, and they would not judge me or be mean to me because of my father not being present. I have been blessed to be sponsored by the Millenium Allstars, Daddy’s little girl dolls, southeast armed service YMCA and a host of friends and family. I am hopeful to get more sponsorships and to be able to assist and mentor more children that were in the same situation that I was in.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY
CHE’PARIS & JUAQUIN MOBLEY DAUGHTER & FATHER
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AUTOMOTIVE COLORADO SPRINGS
CAR SHOWS ACE ENTERTAINMENT 3650 NEW CENTER POINT, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80922 (719) 329-4736 | ACEENT1.COM 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).
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EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER EMERALD TAYLOR
AUTOMOTIVE COLORADO SPRINGS
SALES INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR
AUTOSEARCH USA (719) 528-8700 | SPRINGSAUTOSEARCH.COM
TIPS FOR BUYING A CAR RONNIE HASKINS
How long have you been in the auto industry?
ROBERT STRANGE (910) 922-6353 PHILLONGLINCOLN.COM
I've been in the auto industry over a decade. I have worked at other Honda dealerships for 8 plus years. I’ve been currently working for Phil Long Ford Lincoln for 4 years.
How did you get into the industry? I was working a couple of dead-end jobs, and I wasn't bringing in the income I wanted. I saw an ad in the newspaper for car sales with an income starting at 35k to 60k a year. That was more than what I was making at the time, so I went for the interview. They liked my personality, attitude and my enthusiasm which led them to hire me. what advice would you give to people who want to get a car? Research the makes and models of what you are looking for, see what fits you, and determine what you can afford before going to a dealership. That way, you can gauge or guide the process. Be clear about your expectations. People that don’t share what they're trying to accomplish, tend to go from dealership to dealership. If you're looking to upgrade your car, always know the background of the vehicle. You would need to know if your last car was in an accident or damaged, if there were repairs on the car, if any damage was preexisting or happened while you owned it. Was the car purchased at a higher interest rate? is it for business or work.? Finally, how much money did you put down on the vehicle? This helps to determine what you may need now for a down payment. The more you put down is always good because it can assist with your taxes and fees. where do you see the Auto industry headed? I see more people going to the internet to buy cars. The consumer doesn’t want to spend their time at the dealership because people have busy lives. I see more home and work deliveries happening; no more picking up your car from the lot. As long as the gas prices stay the way they are, you will not see sedans that are non-hybrid or not electric, Because we are going more towards smaller SUVs that are becoming hybrids & all-electric vehicles.
#1 determine your budget. Determine how much money you make per year and write that down. Believe It or not, there are some of us that do not know. We've been working in the same habits for quite some time, and all the money's on automatic payments and automatic direct deposit. A lot of us don't know precisely what the dollars are that are coming into our household every year and what’s going out. Pull up a budget calculator online and then look at what you're making every month or year. Remember, we're talking about choosing a car not just for today that we all feel good about emotionally, but one that doesn’t derail us from doing other things that makes us money. # 2 Separate your wants, likes, and needs How many people do you need to carry around on a regular basis? If you're not getting a vehicle with a third-row seating than most of the rest of the cars on the market are five seaters. If you have two kids and you're married, two dogs, and other responsibilities like taking kids to school, going on trips or skiing. These types of things can determine what you need. My daughter's in gymnastics and my son is in Taekwondo, and they have bags, gear, friends and other things that can start to fill that car up quickly. Also, look at what you have now. If you're driving a Minivan, does it have dual power doors, side airbags, front wheel drive, or a DVD player? You also want to write down what you wish you had. Maybe it's a backup camera or four doors. #3 Leave room to invest in your future Is your car payment keeping you from investing? If you can’t invest every month on a regular basis into your future and your retirement because of your car payment, maybe you’re looking at the wrong car. That's a tough one for us to swallow in our society today. All of us want what we want when we want it, and we will find out ways to buy it. Do you want to take the extra 300 a month and put it into a car? or Do you want to continue to invest in things. like your kids’ college and savings? #4 Schedule a test drive See if it fits you well. where your blind spots are sitting in the driver's seat. out of most cars, but my foot tall. Blind spots can when you're sitting in
RONNIE HASKINS
Determine when you're I can see wife's only 5 change the car.
OWNER & OPERATOR
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER EMERALD TAYLOR
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TRANSPORTATION COLORADO SPRINGS
SHUTTLE SERVICE
BROWNS CAR SERVICE DAVID BROWN (719) 354-3514 | BROWNSCARSERVICE.COM Brown’s Car Service is a town car service that provides affordable airport car shuttling Service to and from Denver International Airport (DIA) and Colorado Springs Airport (COS). INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR How did you start your company and was it hard to launch your business? I started out working for Uber and Lyft. While at the Uber office one day, I overheard a conversation about starting a shuttle company. Not being part of the discussion, I did mull it over myself and thought that I could do that. Once I returned home, I researched shuttle operations and applied to become an independent commercial driver. It took a lot of personal time and commitment to pull the money together. It was a lot of hard work. I was getting up at 3:00 a.m. for 7 days a week, for a year. During this time, I gained experience driving and continuing to gather the funds, also questioning myself if this was really what I wanted to do. Once I acquired the funds needed to launch my business, I was off and running. It was tough. For a while, I was trying to get the word out that there was a new business in town. By taking a few people back and forth to the airport, I started a small base which enabled me a year later to finance the business full time. But by making more money and having steady business to the airport, I found that it was hard finding reliable drivers. As I found out there are a lot of people not cut out for this type of work, so that took some time. One of the hardest parts was having to schedule, 88
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book, connect with customers, being the front office, dispatcher, bookkeeper, etc. But it did pay off in the end, by business picking up and snowballing into Browns Car Service being the second largest in Colorado Springs now. What is the difference between your business and Uber? Well initially, my mindset was that I could work like Uber. But I was pulled over by a friend and was told that this was my business and that I was not an Uber organization, but to be myself. Once I received that push, I found I had different goals and worked on more strategic ways to conduct my business. New contracts started coming in, and I have service accounts all over the city. What have you learned along the way as you became an entrepreneur in growing your own business? I listened to what was stated by the community. There was some dissatisfaction with shuttle companies. Many had issues with having to meet the shuttle at a designated area which may have been difficult for them to get to. So, one of the strategies I came up with was to pick my customers up from their homes and take them to the airport, more convenient for them. Learning what the customer wants is the key. One thing I can say is, I made mistakes
along the way, but I also learned a lot about customers’ needs and what they are looking for when they call for a shuttle service. I would want them to have the same high expectations I would expect if I called for a shuttle. So, I listened adjusted my business plans and goals to ensure that they had the best experience so that they would become a return customer. Did your previous career help you when you decided to venture into the Shuttle world? I had my own computer repair company in Colorado Springs for fifteen years, building computers and hardware for them. During winters it was very slow, and it was hard to make a living. I got into driving for Uber during that time to make ends meet. So, you could say, that it was one of the roads I traveled to get where I am today.
Customers
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER SHIRLEY MARTINEZ
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COLORADO SPRINGS
CYBERSECURITY FIRMA IT SOLUTIONS COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80918 (719) 377-6603 | FIRMAITSS.COM 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. The company started in Key West and thrived there four years before Rodney’s wife received military orders to Colorado Springs. As a leader in the Key West community, Firma IT Solutions has grown since Rodney left in August 2015 to come to Colorado Springs. Now Rodney has established himself in Colorado Springs as an Ambassador with the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC, member of the Southern Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, President of BNI Strategic Alliances Chapter, Director of Local Community Service Projects and Service Fund Trustee of the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs and proud member of Colorado Springs Chapter of The eWomen’s Network. His latest accomplishments are becoming a Cybersecurity Consultant for the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, Board Member with the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado, winner of Colorado Springs Business Journal Best in Business 2017 #1 Cybersecurity Company and recipient of the Colorado Springs Business Journal Rising Stars Class of 2018 award. Rodney leverages his multiple affiliations to help grow his sphere of influence to help others succeed. This philosophy of “Givers Gain” has brought him success in business and among the community. With the high level of cybercrime and companies being locked out of their data for ransom, having an Information Technology company with the experience and talent to give you peace of mind is essential in today’s business World. Firma IT Solutions has a variety of enterprise resources to make them the best choice as your technology partner. Give Firma IT Solutions a call today so they can make IT work for your business.
RODNEY GULLATTE JR.
"Firma IT Solutions has a wide scope of services to create data integrity and system security that all small businesses desperately need." MYBLACKCOLORADO
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REAL ESTATE COLORADO SPRINGS
What are some skills you have developed over the years that's helped you be successful? I've been in sales for 30 years, and my first stint was with Mary Kay cosmetics. At that time I didn't wear any makeup, but I joined it anyway because it was a sales job and I could get a tax write-off. That was kind of like a foundation for me to get into sales, learning how to set goals and learning how to dream. They also taught me sales techniques. You could have something that someone absolutely loves, but if they don't like you, they're not going to buy anything from you. So the first step is just being likable and having people skills to be able to adapt to different personalities. I've had clients that probably didn't like me in the beginning, but by the time we were done, they loved me. It's a matter of dealing with their personality.
SHIRLEY STEWART REALTOR
how did you weather the ups and downs in the real estate industry? As long as you put some money to the side, you should be ok. An emergency fund is a big deal, not just for real estate agents, but for every single person in America, and that's just having six months of payments saved up for a rainy day. What are the most prominent concerns from Home Buyers? Their biggest concern is their down payment. A lot of people think that you need a 20 grand downpayment for a house. 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 estate professionals? You are going to need some money because you got to pay for your schooling up front. I would recommend that you have at least $2,500. 90
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CHERRY CREEK PROPERTIES (719) 332-2360 | SHIRLEYSTEWART.US INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR I heard the market is saturated. I don't believe that. There's plenty of money to go around. I've been in the business long enough. A lot of my clients are referral-based, I guess when I started 20 years ago, my biggest challenge was getting clients because I didn't have the money for marketing. Some companies give you leads, but they pay you a lot less. My biggest challenge was getting business people knowing that I'm a real estate agent. We have all kinds of avenues for marketing now, Why do you do what you do? Well, my passion is for first-time homebuyers. I'm geared towards the lower income families. Those that think they can't own a house, single parents who think they can't own a home, people who have
the houses that don't think they can own one, that make my day. When people give me a call, I try and help. Sometimes you have people that don't have any problems at all. They think they can't because they filed bankruptcy 10 years ago, that's not a dealbreaker, but people don't know these things. The first thing is to educate, people as to what can be done and what can't be done. What makes a good real state agent? If you want to be an excellent real estate agent, don't sell people a house that you don't want to live in. Don't sell a home that you can't sell later. Find something that will be acceptable to you and your client. For me, if I don't like it, you don't get to buy it.
credit issues that think keep them from purchasing a home. It's getting people in
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER LATOSHA THOMAS
REAL ESTATE COLORADO SPRINGS
What are some tips you would give to someone selling their home? Make sure that your home is completely updated. Also, stage your home so it looks the best it can. Curb appeal is another thing sellers have to be mindful of because the first impression of your home is a lasting impression. Making sure your home looks good when buyers walk in or walk up to the house is essential.
SABRINA COOKS REALTOR
GALVAN AND GARDNER REAL ESTATE GROUP (719) 660-8313 | GALVANANDGARDNER.COM INTERVIEW FROM THE EDITOR How did you start and why did you get into real estate? I've been a Realtor for nine years now. I got in the business in 2004 because we had done a couple of transactions and weren't happy. I didn't want anybody else to have to go through some of the things that we went through purchasing our home. So I decided to go into the business. I was in the industry for three years, and then the market crashed, and I changed my career field. I decided to go back in 2013, and I've been in ever since. From purchasing a new build, to buying existing homes, to selling a home or closing a home, we've been through it. I know what people are going through in all the different situations that are out there. A lot of times people feel like they're the only ones that are going through something and they're afraid to talk to people about what's going on and how to make it work for them.
"l like to make sure people are happy, that they're not just settling for what's out there.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY | PROOFREADER LATOSHA THOMAS
Do you think a Real Estate Agent is necessary to help someone purchase a home? I do. When we purchased our first home, we didn't have an agent. It was one of the worst experiences because we didn't know our rights as a buyer and we didn't know things that we should have. Looking back, we wish we had someone outside of the situation looking out for our best interest. Sellers do have to make sure they have money set aside for repairs because you never know what is going to come back from the inspection. If there's no money for repairs, it could cost you a deal. So what are three tips for buyers? Make sure your finances are in order and that you have your down payment. Talk to a lender six months before you think you're going to want to purchase a home. If there are things that need to be fixed on your credit, they can help you out. You don't want to find out at the last minute that you can't buy a home because you don't qualify. Have an agent, so you have someone to represent you and help you with the transaction, at no cost to you., they get paid by the seller. When you're deciding on an area of town that you want to live in, drive by at different times of the day so you can kind of see what the environment is like and what type of traffic you have there, so you're sure it's the area you want to live in. What do you enjoy about your job the most? I enjoy making people happy. I enjoy helping people find their forever dream home. I've had a client where I found her the house she wanted and paid the down payment, but I could tell it was not her dream home. I kept looking for her without her knowing and found her another home that better matched what she wanted, she bought that home, and that is her forever home. I like to make sure people are happy, that they're not just settling for what's out there.
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YOUTH SPOTLIGHT COLORADO SPRINGS
HADASSAH NIX - 16 YEAR OLD ASPIRING FILMMAKER, ARTIST AND WRITER I have been blessed with a passion and a gift to help bring light into the world through art and film. As a young black Christian girl, I have been stereotyped many times. This is one of the subjects my first film “Labeled” addressed. I made this film with the help of the Youth Documentary Academy. It went on to be screened at the Rocky Mountain Women's Film Festival in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 2018, "LABELED" was selected to be screened at the All American High School Film Festival (AAHSFF) in New York City. "The AllAmerican High School Film Festival (AAHSFF) is the premier destination for talented high school filmmakers and media arts enthusiasts from around the world." It had been a dream of mine to go to New York for years. With the support of some very generous partners, my dream became a reality. I am interested in attending NYU as well as a few other film schools in the New York area. I was able not only to see my film screened at the AAHSFF but was able to visit NYU, becoming convinced that this was indeed my goal. In addition, while in New York, I had the opportunity to gain more knowledge of the film industry, acquire many new tools, had access to industry professionals and multiple educational institutions at the film festival. In 2018, my journey in film also took me to Los Angeles, California. I was 1 of 21 girls selected out of 1300, to participate in the AT&T Hello Sunshine Filmmaker Lab, which is Reese Witherspoon's Production Company. We spent 8 days in Los Angeles filming a documentary under the guidance of mentors and professionals. We had the opportunity, not only to learn filmmaking techniques from the mentors but to meet and interview some of the most influential industry women in Hollywood, from music editor Julie Pearce to cinematographer Kira Kelly. They paid for the flight and hotel which made this possible for me. I created 8 pieces of original art, which I sold to support the rest of the expenses of this trip. This was an opportunity of a lifetime. I am confident that art and film are the directions my life is to be going. Art and film are my career choice, but I feel it is also the choice that encompasses my purpose. In other words, it chose me. I have developed a new confidence in the past year. I have come to appreciate my talent with humility and have recognized that I do have a unique ability. I can confidently meet new
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people and show off my culture, creativity, and who I am as a young black woman. I have come to realize that what I have to give does not belong to me, and so I must give it away. But I have to make sure that I take care of myself so that I am my best. I am aware of the things that make me the best me that I can be. I make sure to honor and respect my family and friends. I am careful to surround myself with good people who are making good choices. I try my best to take care of myself, from eating right to staying active. This is modeled in my family who sets a good example and holds me accountable. I am very active in my church youth group. In church, my Pastor has given me the
opportunity to give back, by painting pieces that relate to the messages he teaches. I paint while he teaches and the art is hung on the wall. I am also very active in school. I am on the dance team, I am in KRAM, an inschool student broadcasting program, and I am a member of the multicultural club. Recently, I was able to create a piece of art to be hung in my school counselor’s office. She said she wanted to have something in her office that would encourage students when they saw it. She loved my art piece, and it feels good to know that she can use it to help other students.
EDITOR IN CHIEF BRANDON BORNES | DESIGNER RALPH MCCCOY
MORE PEOPLE YOU NEED TO KNOW!
DANIELLE TRINA
ERIK HUFFMAN
FINE ART PHOTOPGRAPHY
HANDSHAKE LEADERSHIP
(719) 200-9093 DANIELLETRINAFINEART.COM
(719) 244-0149 HANDSHAKELEADERSHIP.COM
LISA JENKINS KINDOM BUILDERS FAMILY LIFE CENTER
PATRICE RAVENSCROFT
NICHOLAS CRUTCHER
REACH PIKES PEAK
(719) 247-8190
(719) 358-8396 REACHPIKESPEAK.ORG
CRUTCHER CORNERSTONE COMMUNITY DEVELOPEMENT (702) 752-0269 CORNERSTONEMOVEMENT.ORG
KINGDOMBUILDERSFAMILYLIFECENTER.ORG
JORDAN CRAFT ALPHA THE MUSICAL SINGER & SONGWRITER FB.COM/ALPHATHEMUSICAL
DJ CRAFTMATIC 7192106498 DJCRAFTMATIC.COM
AMBER TURNER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA MISS COLORADO USOAMISSCOLORADO.COM
TERRY JOSIAH
SINGER & MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER
THE GRATITUDE GUY
MYBLACKCOLORADO
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DIRECTORY |
BARBER & BEAUTY SERVICES DIRECTORY FOR COLORADO
NAME
PHONE
WEBSITE
STREET
A Head of Class Barbershop
(719) 573-8720
fb.com/AHeadOfClassBarbershop
2214 Academy Place
African Braids
(719) 246-6758
All Work No Play Barbershop
(719) 638-1676
Artistic Designs Barber & Beauty Salon
(719) 391-2021
Braids by Kisha
(719) 210-9311
Braids by Taja
(631) 539-1093
fb.com/braidsbytaja/
Coco Líqueur Stlyez
(719) 301-9679
fb.com/Coco.Liqueur.Styles
6165 Barnes Rd, Suite 10
Cristela African Hair Braids
(719) 424-6948
Dear Madame Walker LTD.
(719) 590-6647
fb.com/DearMadameWalkerLTD
2829 Dublin Blvd
DJ Doing Hair
(719) 726-0958
Hair Addicts Salon
(719) 375-8582
facebook.com/HairAddictsSalon
2230 B St #204
Headliner Studios
(719) 244-1991
fb.com/stylistonthegocolorado
307 Prairie Rd, Ste 103
Jae‘s Braids ‚N Styles
(719) 306-8364
styleseat.com/jaesbraidsnstyles
3750 Astrozon Blvd ste 120
Joy African Hair Braiding
(719 3548-269
joyhairbraiding.com
5925 Lehman Drive Suite No. 4
Kelli Ciera - Hair Stylist
(719) 590-6647
fb.com/KelliCieraofDMW
2829 Dublin Blvd
Lash Boss
(719) 644-8149
fb.com/LashBoss719
3275 E. Platte Ave.
Lashes By Tina
fb.com/allworknoplaybarbershop
825 N Circle Dr 3746 Astrozon Blvd
lashesbytina.com
Locs & Tresses | Hair Salon
(719) 725-1620
fb.com/locsandtresses
214 E St Elmo Ave
MaineTaining Styles LLC Beauty Salon
(719) 373-7634
fb.com/CharminU33
908 N. Circle Dr. Unit E.
Midtown barber Shop
(719) 475-7641
Mouse The Dread/Loc Therapist
(719) 201-4623
fb.com/Dreadfulmouse
3239 South Academy Blvd
Oasis Barber and Beauty Shop
(719) 392-2206
fb.com/OasisBarberAndBeauty
3750 Astrozon Blvd, Ste 120
Phenomenal Visions Hair & Makeup
(719) 310-5033
phenomenalvhms.com
5910 Stetson Hills Blvd Suite #111
Phive Star Hair
(954) 243-7478
phivestarhair.com
6835 chesterfield ct
fb.com/rhondasnails
658 N Circle Dr.
Rhonda‘s Nails Ristela African Hair Braids
259 South circle dr
(719) 424-6948
Styles By Nity
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4020 silver star grove
362 Main Street fb.com/MsNity
2829 Dublin Blvd
Superior Barbershop North
(719) 339-6803
fb.com/focusthebarber
2322 Vickers Dr
Talaa African Braiding & Weaving
(254) 661-3114
fb.com/AfricanTalaa/
2573 Airport Rd
The Legendary Right Touch
(719) 272-1499
thelegendaryrighttouch.com
3367 North Academy Blvd.
The Palace Weave Shop
(719) 229-1241
fb.com/thepalaceweaveshop
750 Citadel drive unit 3012
The TRIO House by Tori Lashà
(561) 632-4308
fb.com/TheTRIOHouse
750 W Garden of the Gods rd
Tina‘s Hair and Nail Boutique
(719) 205-3620
tinashairandnails.com
1710 W Colorado Ave
Tresses of KC Styles
(719) 493-4482
tressesofkcstyles.com
4390 B Loomis Ave
Vintage Glam Beauty Services LLC
(719) 470-2808
fb.com/vintageglamgirl
Xpressions Beauty Studio
(719) 217-3395
fb.com/coloradoblackhairsalons
MYBLACKCOLORADO
3239 S Academy Blvd, Ste 120
DIRECTORY |
RELIGIOUS BASED INITIATIVES FOR COLORADO SPRINGS
RELIGOUS INSTIUTIONS AND GROUPS THAT THAT ARE TRADITIONALLY BLACK OR HAVE BLACK SENIOR LEADERSHIP NAME
PHONE
WEBSITE
STREET
Action In Action Ministries
(719) 633-5956
fb.com/AIAMinistries
930 S Prospect St
Bountiful Blessings COGIC
(719) 471-3607
bountifulblessingscolorado.org
1640 Lashelle Way
Calvary Worship Center
(719) 632-3311
cwccs.org
501 Castle Road
Colorado Springs Council For Black Catholics
(719) 8221261
Colorado Springs Grace Church of the Nazarene
(719) 473-7725
Deliverance Tabernacle Baptist Church
(719) 471-3502
2551 Airport Rd
Divine Spirit Baptist Church
(719) 442-0289
2626 Verde Dr
Ebenezer Baptist Church
(719) 999-5484
4040 E Bijou St,
Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church
(719) 635-4865
4925 N Carefree Cir csgrace.org
godiswithus.org
1615 E Cheyenne Rd
3615 Vickers Dr,
Fresh Start Baptist
(719) 633-8448
3231 Chelton Cir
Friendship Baptist Church
(719) 473-8186
633 E Dale St
Good News Church
(719) 344-9629
628 N Circle Dr
Greater Christ Temple Apostolic Church
(719) 573-0484
Greater Tri-Rock Baptist Church
(719) 385-0311
House Of Refuge Christian Center
gctachurch.org
4985 N Carefree Cir 1204 E Bijou St
fb.com/HouseofRefugeCC
925 South Institute Street
Imanuela Ministries
(719) 392-3322
Independent Missionary Church
(719) 632-1136
independentmissionarybc.org
527 E St Vrain St
Interdenomination of Faith
719-310-1368
fb.com/Idfcolorado
4875 Galley Rd.
Church Of The Living God
719-310-1368
Www.idf-co.org
1980 C Delta Drive
Israelite Church of God In Christ
(719) 392-3322
israelitecogic.org
123 Security Blvd
James Butler | Parachurch Ministry
9703889356
intervarsity.org
7085 Platte River Pt
King Solomon Baptist Church
(719) 637-3830
ksbc.us
910 Peterson Rd
Lift Up Jesus Church
(719) 322-8614
.lujcos.com
308 Auburn Dr.
New Beginning Christian Church
(719) 576-1525
fb.com/newbeginning.c.church
2230 B St
123 Security Blvd
New Covenant Church of God
(719) 475-7740
newcovenantcogic.org
301 E Platte Ave
New Direction Baptist Church
(719) 570-4686
newdirectionbaptistchurch.com
2076 Jet Wing Dr
New Resurrection Baptist Church
(719) 630-8709
newresurrectionmbc.org
601 S Prospect St
Open Bible Baptist Church
(719) 475-2001
openbiblecares.org
824 S Union Blvd
Passionate Hope International Ministries
(719) 660-0197
passionatehope.org
902 N. Circle Dr. Ste. 209
Payne Chapel AME Church
(719) 591-6271
3625 Marion Dr
Perfect Peace Baptist Church
(719) 635-5970
832 S Nevada Ave
Philippian Church of God
(719) 473-8733
2003 Lelaray St
Relevant Word Ministries
(719) 635-6640
relevantword.org
1040 S Institute St
Restored Life Church
(719) 287-4155
restoredlifechurch.org
3217 S. Academy Blvd
Solid Rock Christian Center
(719) 393-7625
solidrock-cs.org
2520 Arlington Dr.
St. John‘s Baptist Church
(719) 634-5687
www.sjbchurch.co
902 S Prospect St
The Black Prayer Network
(719) 322-8614
PO Box 26583
The Living Word Baptist Church
(719) 271-9903
311 South Hancock
Trinity Baptists Church
(719) 635-8789
trinitybaptistch.org/
617 E Fountain Blvd
True Spirit Baptist Church
(719) 575-9287
truespiritbaptistchurch.com
5120 Astrozon Blvd
MYBLACKCOLORADO
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