Denver Urban Spectrum Countdown to 2015

12 – JANUARY

Nelson “Madiba” Mandela. The Denver Urban Spectrum kicks off the year celebrating the life of Mandela with a special tribute issue. It includes a reflective piece by James Ainsworth that links Mandela’s life with Martin Luther King Jr. and highlights their successes in changing the world in a nonviolent way. The tribute includes perspective from former mayor of Denver, Wellington E. Webb, former first lady of Denver, Wilma Webb, local businessman Sid Wilson and three students from Sims-Fayola International Academy. Chris Meehan writes about the MLK rodeo, a one-day event, produced by Lu Vason that celebrates Martin Luther King’s birthday and the Black cowboy. Theo E. J. Wilson addresses the dangers Denver is facing with foreclosure. Through his piece, Adam Dempsey celebrates the life of Robert “Treebob” Williams who supported numerous community causes and events—his legacy continues through family.

11 – FEBRUARY

In this Black History Month issue, a cover story written by Angelia D. McGowan highlights Landri Taylor, who has embraced several titles in his lifetime including entrepreneur, vice president, president, CEO, board chair, and board treasurer. Tanya Ishikawa announces the “ME & THE DREAM Exhibit” at Cherry Creek Mall being held in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. and his visit to Denver. Presented by the Denver Urban Spectrum, the exhibit and program features activities, artwork and local heroes. The exhibit also hosts the DUS’ annual African American Who Make a Difference awards. In his article, “More Than a Haircut,” Charles Emmons expresses the importance of African American barbershops. Theo Wilson informs readers about the history and nightlife at Randall’s, formerly Pierre’s, as it faces possible closure.

10 – MARCH

In honor of Women’s History Month, the Denver Urban Spectrum showcases the diverse contributions of women, including J.D. Mason, who snags the cover, and rightly so. By the end of this year, the author of the popular “On the Eight Day She Rested,” will have 11 books published. She has signed a seven-book deal with her publisher and continues to be a strong African American voice in the literary industry. Charles Emmons takes a look at the role of beauty salons in the African American community, featuring interviews with salon owners Karen Hall, Judy Bunton, Rosalyn Redwine and Carrie McElroy. Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis and Dr. Terri Richardson, both with Kaiser Permanente Colorado, address how individuals can build healthier lives by partnering with their doctors. Writer Abby Angell directs the spotlight on Harriet Butcher and her 90 years of grace, style and strength. Butcher is the founder of the Park Hill Tappers, a group of eight women, who entertained local schools and regiment homes for many years. Wellington E. Webb, former mayor of Denver, pens a column, “What Makes a Great City.”

9 – APRIL

Greg Moore, Denver Post editor and Rosalind Harris, Denver Urban Spectrum publisher share their views on the advancement of technology and its role in the evolution of the newspaper industry in the cover piece written by Angelia D. McGowan. In her article, “Entrepreneurs Aim to Educate Cannabis Consumers,” Tanya Ishikawa writes about Al Bowen’s vision of helping businesses connect with customers for safe recreational and medical marijuana consumption. Bowen and his partner Roland “Fatty” Taylor believe businesses like theirs enhance the state’s tourism industry. In her “Blowing Smoke” column, Wanda James points out that this was the first 4/20 since cannabis became legal for recreational use in Colorado. In “Renaissance Over Revolution: A Paradigm Shift,” Theo Wilson evaluates how human beings have the ability to cease the ugly in the world and start building one in which we want to live. In her piece, “Courageous Baking Promotes Support, Healing and Perseverance, LisaMarie Martinez writes a profile on Allyce Redwine, an advocate for sexual assault awareness and the founder and creator of Delicious and Divine, an exclusive catering business.

8 – MAY

The cover story, written by Angelle C. Fouther, celebrates the life of Essie Garrett, a woman considered by many a superhero and one who touched the lives of thousands. The article follows Garrett’s life from the early years to her “generosity even in death.” In her column “Blowing Smoke,” Wanda James writes about women in the marijuana industry, the medical benefits of marijuana for children, and a new cannabis oil, Charlotte’s Web that is produced in Colorado to benefit people battling illnesses. Angelia D. McGowan’s article, “Ministers Commit to Working for Policy Changes,” addresses the Greater Metro Denver Ministerial Alliance’s efforts to better understand the city’s disciplinary process and address concerns with the excessive force and law enforcement behavior. LisaMarie Martinez highlights the new president of a local chamber of commerce in a piece entitled, “Hispanic Chamber President Diedra Garcia Emphasizes ‘Outward Focus.’ ”

7 – JUNE

The cover story by Angelia D. McGowan focuses on the “jazzy history” of George Morrison Jr., particularly his experiences as the son of “Denver’s Godfather of Jazz,” how he charted his own course and the legacy he continues to share with his wife, Marjorie, and two daughters, Vicki and Trudi. Greta Gloven writes about the loss of civil rights activist Dr. Vincent Harding, recognized as an author, emeritus professor of religion and social transformation, co-founder of the Veterans of Hope Project and more. Also celebrated is the life of Cornelius Ernest Jones, Sr., a veteran of the Korean War, who earned two Bronze Stars and a United Nations Medal. He was known as a humble friend, husband, father, grandfather and man who touched many hearts. In his column, Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks stresses the importance of magnesium in everyone’s diet and how the lack of magnesium is a major factor in many health problems. “Blowing Smoke” columnist Wanda James delineates a musical culture which cannabis users, including Bob Marley, are tied together. This issue honors 10 African American men at the Denver Urban Spectrum anniversary event “Men of Distinction, Fathers of Wisdom.” LisaMarie Martinez shares the background of Linda Theus-lee, Ernest Washington and Cicely O’Kain in her article, “Spotlight on Musicians in Denver’s Local Music Scene.”

6 – JULY

The July cover story by Charles Emmons highlights the importance and recognition of Buffalo Soldiers, celebrating their 148th anniversary in Colorado. Annette Walker addresses genocide and slavery in the Sudan. Denver is home to 1,000 Sudanese refugees—projects and organizations formed in response to high illiteracy rates, i.e. “Colorado Friends of the Lost Boys of Sudan” works to assist in general welfare, job training and more for Sudanese refugees. Emmons also writes about Principal Kalefe and his mission to motivate young boys to stay in school through his motivational speaking. In this issue, the Denver Urban Spectrum celebrates its 27th anniversary. It was a special Father’s Day tribute honoring 15 Men, one being Denver Urban Spectrum publisher’s father, Doyle James. “Blowing Smoke” columnist Wanda James informs readers that Colorado and Kentucky are the only states where hemp can grow. Hemp exemplifies Colorado’s views on the environment and new forms of energy such as wind, solar and water. Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks advises readers to reduce greasy and spicy foods, minimize intake of carbs and refined sugars and add more cooling foods.

5 – AUGUST

The cover piece features Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock and the publishing of his entire state of the city address, which he delivered in July at the Denver Art Museum. The mayor expressed an appreciation for Denver’s recent growth in opportunity and the successful future that several recent accomplishments promise. An article by Angelia D. McGowan recognizes the 29th anniversary of KUVO/KVJZ radio station, which has been playing jazz music and broadcasting news in Denver for nearly three decades. Fourteen year-old Aliyah Fard writes about a print and digital journalism camp organized by the Urban Spectrum Youth Foundation, created by Rosalind J. Harris. In this issue, “Blowing Smoke” columnist Wanda James addresses the growth of the Colorado edible industry and stressed a lack of understanding by consumers. In his column, Dr. S. Abayomi A. Meeks recommends the Moringa seed, a natural multi-vitamin, noting its several health benefits. Theo E. J. Wilson’s piece expresses a desire to bring together all of the ethnicities and cultures in Colorado. This issue is dedicated to Carol Rinehart, the mother of longtime DUS supporter and former managing editor Tanya Ishikawa.

4 – SEPTEMBER

The cover story “Gaining Ground by Being Involved” by Charles Emmons includes Dr. Sharon Bailey’s ideas to resolve disparity issues, the importance of financial literacy and higher education. Columnist Theo E. J. Wilson addresses a disregard for Black life—despite America’s progression (i.e. first Black president) Blacks are still victims of unemployment and economic inequality. Tanya Ishikawa writes about the “Latino Eco Festival Advocates for Environmental Justice across Borders” and includes important statistics and advice by festival founder, Irene Vilar. The piece reports 93 percent of Latino Americans believe in climate change. This issue also announces the building dedication of the Elbra. M. Wedgeworth Municipal Building in Five Points, names for former District 8 councilwoman. Angelia D. McGowan’s article, “Health Industry Taps into Convenient Places for Patient Care” explains that health professionals are stepping outside of the examining room and instead going to the patients. “Blowing Smoke” columnist Wanda James connects the use of cannabis to different religions such as Christianity, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism and Rastafarianism.

3 – OCTOBER

The cover of the October issue features, “A Conversation with Wellington E. Webb” written by Charles Emmons. The piece taps into the knowledge-base of the former mayor and first black mayor of Denver to explain the importance of the mid-term elections. Webb emphasized the importance of voting in the mid-term and presidential elections. Angelia D. McGowan’s article, “High-Profile News Impacts ‘Everybody’ Battling Alzheimer’s” covers the success of the 25th Annual Alzheimer’s Association “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” on September 20. More than 10,000 people registered for the event that is gaining broader exposure with more and more people, including B. Smith and Denver Bronco’s owner Pat Bowlen, fighting the disease. Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks writes about the power our emotions have to affect our bodies. He encourages methods like drinking purified water frequently, eating fruits and vegetables, meditation, drinking chamomile tea, and others that assist in detoxing bodies. “Blowing Smoke” columnists Wanda James writes about Colorado’s “Don’t Be a Lab Rat” campaign and how it not only is insensitive to those who need marijuana medically (i.e. those battling epilepsy and Dravet syndrome) but it is also racially insensitive, failing to address issues surrounding racial profiling and conviction of colored people. This issue also pays tribute to the late Honorable Edna Mosley.

2 – NOVEMBER

This month’s cover story by Angelia D. McGowan recognizes the 50th anniversary of a Thanksgiving food giveaway started by “Daddy” Bruce Randolph, and continued by the simple but monumental acts of countless people. McGowan’s article on the Global Down Syndrome Foundation helps to honor the work of supermodel Beverly Johnson, and her unwavering support of her niece, Natalie Fuller, who has Down syndrome. Dr. S. Abayomi Meeks address the importance of a strong immune system in fighting viruses. This issue includes Dr. Ryan Ross’ success story from growing up in a neighborhood with gang warfare and drive-by shootings to being one of Colorado Biz Magazine’s 25 most influential young professionals. In this issue, we also pay respect to the late Honorable Regis Groff.

1 – DECEMBER

This final issue of 2014 provides a highlight of articles and columns published in the Denver Urban Spectrum this year, including this month’s piece, “John Toms: Art, The Projects, Paris and Liberation,” by James Ainsworth. The article explores the coming of age experiences of the Denver-based artist and how his sons are carrying on his legacy of art in the digital world. Also in this issue, LisaMarie Martinez showcases two nationally recognized artists – Kenya McGuire Johnson and Kloud 9 – whose musical roots are embedded in Denver. Author Charlene Porter, who grew up skiing in Colorado, provides historical perspective on the sport, including the time when African Americans began skiing under formal organizations, such as the Slippers-n-Sliders. She also talks about their current program to engage underrepresented youth in the sport. In her article, “A Legacy of Achievement: Keeping the Dream Alive” Angelle C. Fouther announces that the Denver Chapter of Jack and Jill of America will present its 31st class of Beaus at the Annual Beautillion Gala. The celebration marks the culmination of a half-year journey for 26 African-American high school male seniors, who follow in the footsteps of more than 800 Beau Alumni, keeping the legacy of achievement and the dream alive.