November 2012

Happenings in and around Historic 5 Points and Northeast DenverNovember 2012

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155 Points newsonLine nowat www.5Pointsnews.com

COLORADO THE BLUE STATE

5 POINTS BECAME GROUND ZERO IN ELECTION

Historic Five Points became ground zero for President Barack obama’s re-election campaign in Colorado. Local and national activists, politicians, religious leaders, and grassroots individuals used their extensive knowledge to help Get Out The Vote. this contingency, coupled with obama for America staff and volunteers, made for an effective campaign.

there were numerous celebrities in Five Points throughout the campaign, including Academy Award nominated actors Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne. Bassett delivered a stirring speech grounded in her Christian faith tradition, while Fishburne shared his story of political disenfranchisement, redemption, and belief in the political process. neighborhood youth were not forgotten, and were treated to a special rally featuring Black entertainment television’s Rocsi Dias.

Civil Rights icon Congressman John Lewis, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, south Carolina Congressman James Clyburn, and Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker were high profile elected officials campaigning in the Points.

President obama drew 20,000 supporters to City Park, and former President Bill Clinton exhorted a capacity crowd at Manual High school saying, “if you want what’s best for this country, you better vote for President obama!” And we did!

–Terrance Hughes

(R-L ) Former President Bill Clinton, Black Entertainment Television’s Rocsi Dias, and Actor Laurence Fishburne

(R-L ) James “Dr. Daddio” Walker and Governor Deval Patrick - Actress Angela Bassett and Denver’s First Lady Mary Louise Hancock.

President Barack obama and his campaign spent a considerable amount of time in Colorado for his successful re-election bid. in a costly campaign where hostile television and radio ads aired unceasingly, it was obama’s person-to-person grassroots campaign that ultimately won the election. “i need you to knock on some more doors. i need you to make some more phone calls,” obama requested from supporters. “And if you turn out for me, we will win Colorado again.”

SpecialElection Edition

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2 8 5 Points news

WE’rE 100%With PrESidEnt ObamaPaid fOr by thE 47%Of nOrthEaSt dEnvEr

Say it Loud | brotherjeff.com

WE DID IT AGAIN!

november 2012 8 3

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5 Points news Monthly Publication - November 2012

Publisher

brother jeff

editor

brother jeff

layout & design

Cynthia R. Martin

PhotograPhy

Lens of Ansarbrother jeff

A-Team Photography

Writers & researchers

Terrance “Big T” HughesKenneth Drew

brother jeffCynthia Martin Aminah FardAliyah FardMisti Aas

5 Points News is a publication of brotherjeff.com

2836 Welton StreetDenver, CO 80205

[email protected]

the atmosphere was electric in brother jeff’s Cultural Center during the commu-nity election night watch party. As swing state after swing state came in for President obama it became clear that the 2012 presidential race wasn’t even close. After the critical state of ohio went blue, the contest was over.

But wait! even though we won, the evening at brother jeff’s was far from over. we worked hard throughout the Centennial state to re-elect our president and wanted to know what direction Colorado would swing. we wanted our Electoral College Icing On The Cake.

After waiting for what seemed forever, the news came–Colorado goes for obama! “we did it again!” was the ongoing refrain, and the party moved into full swing. now that the party is over, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and help our presi-dent and elected officials in our blue state Finish What We Started!

–brother jeff

We Waited For Our Icing On The Cake!

Talkn’ With Dr. DaddioSaturdays 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

with your help, on tuesday night we were able to not only win back the majority in the Colorado state House, but do it with a broad margin. while all that is needed for Majority is 33 seats, we will enter the January session with 37 members.

we know that the election is just a beginning. we have much work to do keep our economy moving forward and restore the hope that Coloradoans have in their government. we do not take the responsibility lightly. through collaboration with our Republican colleagues, the state House is going to accomplish great things for Colorado by working with Governor Hickenlooper and the state senate.

we are going to take any idea - Democratic, Republican, independent - that will move Colorado forward. it was clear on tuesday night that the people of Colorado rejected the politics of gridlock and hyperpartisanship that brought the business of the people to a halt in this last year. Democrats are going to lead in a different direc-tion - forward.

we are grateful for your support. Building a strong majority meant strong public servants running for office with great campaigns behind them. This majority would not be possible without the thousands and thousands of volunteers and donors who stepped up and believed in building a better Colorado.

Let’s keep working together to make that happen. in the Colorado state House, we will work to live up to your trust, your support and your faith in a better Colorado.

we won’t let you down.

sincerely,Mark Ferrandino speaker-state House of Representatives

Letter to the Editor

Secretary of State Gessler Under Criminal Investigation

Remember inactive Voter status, and his boss secretary of state scott Gessler, who came under fire for al-leged voter suppression that included the mysterious loss of 800 voters who had registered on the state’s website?

the october 2012 edition of 5 Points news mistakenly sited the nAACP Youth Council as conveners of the youth summit featuring Police Chief Robert white. in fact, it was the trailblazer Youth Group, comprised of the nAACP Youth Council and several other youth groups, that was responsi-ble for the event.

the trailblazers was created by new Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church senior Pastor Dr. Calvin Kelly.

Whose Youth are They?

Secretary of State Scott Gessler

brother jeff pours Sparkling Apple Cider as Five Points celebrated the re-election of President Obama

Gessler is now under a criminal inves-tigation launched by the Denver Dis-trict Attorney’s Office.

in addition, the Colorado inde-pendent ethics Commission voted to begin an investigation into whether Gessler violated the law by using state funds to attend a partisan event.

the Commission is also investi-gating a separate complaint by Colo-rado ethics watch that the state’s chief elections administrator improp-erly took money from his office’s dis-cretionary account.

the matter may be set for a hear-ing before the commission, which could fine Gessler for twice the amount of funds it determines have been misused.

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NAREB President Julius L. Cartwright speaking in northeast Denver at Kick-off Reception

National Real Estate Convention Coming to Denver

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Julius L. Cartwright, President of the national Association of Real estate Bro-kers (nAReB) was a special guest last month for a kick-off reception announc-ing the organization’s 66th Annual Con-vention that will be coming to Denver in August of 2013.

twelve men and women who wanted to ensure fair treatment and equal hous-ing opportunities for all founded nAReB the oldest African American professional trade association in the country in 1947.

“the venues and attractions of down-town Denver played a role in our select-ing Denver over Vegas,” Cartwright said. “And more importantly the decision was made because of the Harris brothers and family. they have been committed to the organization for many, many years.”

Real estate, Five Points, and the Harris family are synonymous. in 1950 McKinley Harris, now deceased, estab-lished Public Realty along with a Jew-ish business partner Al snyder. the two

sought membership in the Denver Board of Realtors and snyder was told he had one problem—“your partner Harris is black.” As such, they were refused membership.

“At that time my father sought an organization that could back him up with the knowledge of real estate,” said local nAReB president Patrick Harris. “And that’s how he found nAReB.”

Patrick and his brother Verne continue the Harris family legacy as owner/brokers of Public Realty, and as nAReB members. their local and national involvement is a primary reason hundreds in the real estate community from sellers, builders, and fi-nance will be coming to Denver.

“this really is a big deal for our city,” says Patrick. “this is a perfect opportunity for people to come and learn about all as-pects of this industry and how this sixty six year old organization can benefit them.”

to learn more about nAReB visit their website at www.nareb.com.

–brother jeff

on thursday, november 1, comedian Katt williams learned what rapper DJ Quik discovered in 1991, that “Denver is just like Compton”.

DJ Quik found his self in a hostile environment after throwing water on the crowd several times. A near riot ensued, and led to the verse in Quik’s single “Den-ver is Just Like Compton”.

in williams’ case, he made the fun-

Comedian Katt Williams

KATT WILLIAMS Booed and Heckled in Denver damental mistake on this fateful night of speaking ill of the Denver Broncos. this was after witnesses said he spent ten min-utes of dancing and rapping that was not greatly appreciated by many in the crowd. the audience became agitated, and was even more disturbed when williams re-moved his shirt and began to do push-ups, while occasionally standing up to pour water on himself. Chants of “Crack williams...Crack williams...Crack wil-liams!” were heard through the crowd.

one gentleman went so far as to ap-proach the stage where it is alleged wil-liams spit water upon him. At one point, williams jumped into the crowd and pur-sued one audience member with his secu-rity after launching a tirade of expletives and racial epithets from the stage. the show ended moments later when wil-liams returned to the stage cursing and telling the audience “You all are getting your money back!”

williams’ Friday show is reported to have happened without incident.

–Kenneth Drew

Ministers Unite in Praise and to Get Out The Vote

Apostle Leon emerson Pastor of now Faith Christian Church and presi-dent of the Greater Metro Denver Ministe-rial Alliance, and senior Pastor James H. McMearn of new Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Colorado springs, and president of the southern Colorado Black Pastor’s Union share a moment during the Combined Greater Metro Ministerial Alli-

ance & Southern Colorado Black Pastors’ Union Celebration.

this bi-annual event, held at new Hope Baptist Church, was a celebration between the two Alliances, as well as a Get Out the Vote rally with several hun-dred people in attendance.

–Terrance Hughes

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Pictured in center: Dr. Tiffany Hardrick and Keith Sanders, co-founders of Miller-McCoy

Miller-McCoy Leaders Withdraw Plans to Open School in Denver

Denver – the Miller-McCoy Denver Board of Directors, led by Board Chair Ryan Ross, decided this month to sur-render the school’s charter, withdrawing plans to open an all-boys 6-12 school in Denver. the school was approved in June of 2011 by the Denver Public schools (DPs) Board of education and was slated to open in August 2013, serving boys in grades 6 through 12.

Miller-McCoy in Denver would have been a replication of an all-boys school in new orleans, Louisiana that has pro-duced strong results, including a 100% acceptance rate into college for its recent graduating class.

the founders of Miller-McCoy in new orleans were to lead the expansion efforts into Denver. However, co-founder, tiffany Hardrick, recently accepted an opportunity to become an assistant su-perintendent in newark Public schools, while co-founder, Keith sanders, recently accepted a position with the Delaware Department of education.

“we are happy for both of the co-founders, and we appreciate the positive

impact that they will continue to have in urban education reform,” said Alyssa whitehead-Bust, Director of the DPs of-fice of School Reform and Innovation, which oversees the Call for new Quality schools process.

“without the leadership of these co-founders, the Miller-McCoy Denver Board of Directors felt that it would be difficult to assure a successful start-up and opening for the school,” said Ross. “therefore, we elected to surrender their charter.”

Miller-McCoy had collected a num-ber of letters of interest from families and students in both the far northeast and southeast regions of Denver. the DPss-chool Choice process will support these families in identifying schools that meet their needs.

“while DPs is disappointed that Miller-McCoy will not be expanding to Denver, we remain committed to pro-viding students and families with high quality schools in all regions of Denver,” whitehead-Bust said.

Former DPS Board Member Passes Away

Former Denver school board member edward J. Garner passed away on nov. 4, 2012. Garner served on the executive Committee of the Council of Great City schools Board of Directors during the years he was on the Denver school board from 1985 to 1991.

Mr. Garner graduated and attended public school in san Augustine, texas. immediately after graduating from Lin-coln High school in san Augustine he attended Prairie View A&M University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree. Mr. Garner was involved with several organizations including sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (Delta eta Boule), Council of Great City schools, national school

Edward J. Garner, 1942-2012

Board Foundation, American Association of school Administrators, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, inc., elder at the United Church of Montbello, national Alliance of Black school educators (nABse), Clayton Foundation, Colorado Calvert Academy state Charter school.

Mr. Garner was instrumental in the development of the Council’s Richard R. Green Award scholarship, named in honor of the first African-American chancellor of the new York City school system in the 1980s. the award is considered the na-tion’s highest honor for urban education leadership, and it was presented this year to Boston Public schools superintendent Carol Johnson. A $10,000 college schol-arship each year is awarded to the winner, who can give it to a high school senior of choice in the respective school district or from his or her high school alma mater. this year was the 23rd year of the award program, and the 20th year the scholar-ship has been awarded.

Mr. Garner is survived by his beloved wife Velvia taylor Garner and three chil-dren, daughters Angela nadine Garner, tonia Garner and son edward Garner and daughter-in-law Colleen.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma society Rocky Mountain Chapter 720 s. Colo-rado Blvd Denver, Co 80246.

Sourcewww.dpsk12.org

Whittier School Open Housewhittier K-8, located at 25th &

Downing, would like to invite all inter-ested families and curious community members to our Community open House on thursday, December 13th, from 6:00-7:30 pm.

whittier K-8’s strong academics is reflected in its reaching and maintaining a “Green/Meets expectations” level within the DPs school Performance Frame-work. Visitors will have a chance to hear a presentation followed by a tour of the school with opportunities to see examples

of classroom work, talk with classroom teachers and meet whittier parents.

whittier is especially excited to high-light its middle school (6th-8th grade) which is ranked as one of the top middle schools in all of Colorado for its excep-tional academic growth.

the evening will begin in the whittier auditorium at the east end of the school. For more information, or to schedule an individual school tour, contact Karen at 303-986-5929 or [email protected].

Denver Public Library to increase service hours by approximately 40% in 2013

with the passing of ballot measure 2A by Denver residents, Denver Public Li-brary plans to increase their 2013 service hours by 40% upon final approval of the 2013 budget.

we are extremely thankful to the Denver residents for voting for 2A which will allow us to better serve our commu-nity after years of budget cuts and reduced library hours,” says shirley Amore, City Librarian.

with the additional funds, all branch libraries will be open a minimum of 48 hours per week, with two evening hours and new weekend hours at several loca-tions. the Central Library will be open 56 hours per week with saturday morning hours restored. the only exception will be the westwood Branch, which will not be open evenings as it is located in the west-

wood Community Center, which closes at 5 p.m.

with the expanded public hours, the Library will increasing their staffing level including a combination of increased hours for current part-time staff and hiring for new positions. Job openings will be posted on DPL’s website once the 2013 budget is approved by City Council.

the public can expect to see the new hours phased-in beginning January 2013, as required staffing levels are achieved. the Library estimates that all locations will be operating with their new schedules three to four months after the hiring pro-cess can begin.

More information about the 2013 branch hours will be available on the Li-brary’s website in the coming weeks.

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Businesses & Services Along the StripAdvertising And MArketingPure Brand Communications2745 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 297-0170

Commerce Kitchen515 30th street, Denver, Co 80205(877) 299-9101

Architecture And interior designStudiotrope2942 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 308-1144

Arts And cultureBlack American West Museum3091 California street, Denver, Co 80205(720) 242-7428

Blair-Caldwell African American Library 2401 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 865-2401

brother jeff’s Cultural Center 2836 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 297-0823

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance 119 Park Avenue west, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-1759

Frederick Douglas Community Building 2745 welton, Denver, Co 80205(213) 923-2981

Stiles African American Heritage Center, Inc.2607 Glenarm Place, Denver, Co 80205(303) 294-0597

AutoMotiveCourtesy Auto728 east 26th Avenue, Denver, Co 80205(303) 861-4417

BAnkingUS Bank 2701 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 296-4742

Wells Fargo2559 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 297-7786

BArBers & BeAuty shopsDunbar Barber Shop 2844 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-9131

Five Points Beauty and Barber2757 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 298-1078

Franklin Stigers Afro Styling2755 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-9055

Hope for a Change Beauty and Barber Shop2737 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 434-9092

McGill’s2843 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-1977

Mr. Puff2754 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 404-8154

New Look Barbers2825 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-9192

BArsClimax Lounge2217 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 292-5483

cleAnersC & B Cleaners & Hatters2748 welton, Denver Co 80205(303) 297-9544

coMMunicAtionsWireless Express610 26th st., Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-1788

coMMunity developMentCivil Technology Inc.2413 washington, Denver, Co 80205(303) 292-0348

Five Points Business District2444 washington, Denver, Co 80205(303) 832-5000

dispensAriesAlternative Medical Foods2752 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-2425

Denver Kush Club2615 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 736-6550

engineeringTriunity Engineering2444 washington st., 3rd Flr, Denver, Co 80205(303) 953-0320

FAith BAsedAgape Christian Church2501 California, Denver, Co 80205(303) 296-2454

A Word from God Ministries2845 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 297-6305

Central Baptist Church2400 California, Denver, Co 80205(303) 292-6618

Kingdom of God Christian Center2485 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 293-2233

governMent oFFicesDenver Motor VehicleFive Points Plaza2736 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 865-4600

heAlth & huMAn resourcesbrother jeff’s Community Health Initiative 608 26th st., 2nd Floor, Denver, Co 80205(303) 293-0024

Denver Options2736 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 587-2800

Healing Life’s Pains2515 California st., Denver, Co 80205(720) 275-3383

Hope Communities2543 California, Denver, Co 80205(303) 860-7747

legAl servicesBenford Bail Bonds 728 e. 26th Ave., Denver, Co 80205(720) 275-0619

Cooper & Dorancy, LLC3025 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 831-1021

Kiovsky and Duwaldt2820 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 293-2300

MediAChannel 122900 Welton, Denver, CO 80205(303) 296-1212

Denver Weekly News2937 Welton, Denver, 80205(303) 292-5158

5 Points News2836 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 297-0823

Free Speech TV2900 Welton, Denver CO 80205(303) 442- 8445KUVO2900 Welton, Denver, CO 80205(303) 480-9272

Urban Spectrum2727 Welton, Denver CO 80205(303) 292 6446

reAl estAte & housing Public Realty2608 Welton, Denver, CO 80205(303) 295-2128

Wise-Harris Arms Apartment Complex605 26th Avenue, Denver, CO 80205(303) 296-7530

BArsM&M Bar2621 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 295-0424

retAil & servicesA Piece of Mine - Ladies Boutique2937 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 539-6919

Lil Tattoo2736 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 319-1814

Neat Stuff at the Black Market2547 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 382-1337

Thrifty Treasures 2846 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 993-7701

Uptown Market 2721 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 993-7701

schoolsTubman-Hilliard Global Academy2741 welton, Denver, Co 80205(720) 542 8238

venuesCervantes Masterpiece Ballroom2637 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 297-1772

youth servicesHeart and Hand2758 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 757-2368

Support the many businesses and services in and around Five Points.

Rosa Parks Visits Five Points for Ancestors Day

Last month’s Ancestors Day activity at Brother Jeff’s Cultural Café was heart-warming and educational, with a Hall-of-Fame touch. this is the 28th year of Ances-tors Day activities, based on what children want out of this season, as well as some Af-rican traditions in honor of those who have passed on, and important Black heroes. scheduled the saturday before october 31, this is the first of the year-end holidays.

in attendance were: Rosa Parks, so-

journer truth, Louis Armstrong, Fred-erick Douglass, Asa Hillard, Malcolm X, Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. Charles Drew, Coretta scott King, shaka Zulu, Minerva Jackson, i. J. Crawford, whitney Houston, opalanga Pugh, and many more.

Refreshments were provided by t&B Catering and Dr. Carolyn C. Phillips. Children’s gifts provided by adult partici-pants.

8 year old Imani Brewer portrays Rosa Parks at Annual Ancesters Day Celebration

november 2012 8 7

Tom’s Cafe800 e. 26th st., Denver, Co 80205

(303) 388-8035

Coleman’s Diner2622 welton st., Denver, Co 80205

(303) 296-3389

The Creamary908 30th st., Denver, Co 80205

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Carries Place1426 e. 22nd Ave, Denver, Co 80205

(303) 993-8982(See ad on page 10)

Bogey’s on the Park2500 York st., Denver, Co 80205

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A&A Fish2896 Fairfax st., Denver, Co 80207

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Welton Street Cafe2736 welton st., Denver, Co 80205

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Frank’s Kitchen2600 High st.

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Spark Policy Institute Joins Five Points Family

spark Policy institute is very excited to be part of the Five Points communi-ty! our organization works as a change agent, collaborating with nonprofits, foundations, policymakers and communi-ties to solve complex problems and cre-ate meaningful and sustainable change in communities.

we are nationally recognized as a leader in fiscal integration, advocacy eval-uation, and strategic learning. the spark team, all 13 of us, moved to Five Points

from the Lower Highlands neighborhood over the summer and we have enjoyed the opportunity to get acquainted with other businesses in the neighborhood. we look forward to meeting more of our Five Points neighbors and helping to invest in this dynamic community.

to learn more about spark Policy institute, please visit us at www.spark-policy.com or drop by our office at 2717 welton street.

4 of 13 Spark Policy Institute team members - (L-R) Natalie Portman-Marsh,Lyn Kathleen, Denise McHugh and Jason Vahling

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november 2012 8 9

5 Blacks in The House

DPS Educator Marie L. Greenwood Turns 100and Shares the Stage with President Obama

election night was a memorable and historic victory, not only for the continu-ing presidency of Barack obama, but also for the Colorado House of Representa-tives. Democrats regained the House and retained the senate in a race that turned Colorado a definitive blue.

In January, there will be a record five African Americans in the state House. three of the elected are from Aurora: re-turning Rep. Rhonda Fields, John Buck-ner, and Jovan Melton. Angela williams continues her Denver seat, and tony exum of Colorado springs defeated an existing Republican lawmaker.

“i am thrilled to be entering the leg-islature next January as part of a Demo-cratic majority, and with so many other young freshman legislators in the house and senate,” said House newcomer Jovan Melton. “we have the opportunity to take guidance from the legislative veterans and bring our new ideas to the capitol. we

Reaching the age of 100 is an incred-ible feat in itself. Add to this accomplish-ment being the first African American woman to earn a permanent contract in Denver Public schools (DPs), having a DPs school in your name, writing two books, and sharing an in-person conver-sation with the president just days before his re-election to a second term.

Marie L. Greenwood hits the century mark on november 24th. A Colorado resident since the age of 13, she received a bachelor’s degree in elementary edu-cation from Colorado teacher’s College (now UnC) in 1935. that fall, Green-wood was assigned to her first teaching position at whittier elementary school. A mother of four, she retired from DPs after a 30 year teaching career, and continues to stay active in educational and commu-nity activities. Greenwood was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from UnC at the age of 97.

“i’m pretty amazed that 100 is com-ing up,” said Greenwood. “i just feel so blessed that i can still walk and talk and breathe and drive. i’ve had to slow down a whole lot, but i haven’t stopped.”

Greenwood is completing yet anoth-

er milestone on her journey; the writing of the final chapter of her autobiography. Her first book, Every Child Can Learn, was published in 1997.

“i have many basic philosophies for life by which i live,” Greenwood ex-plained. “i always have a strong mind of my own. i will listen to advice but i make my own decisions. i’m also a born optimist. nothing is so bad it can’t be worse. no matter what your situation is, be thankful for it, and make the most of every opportunity.”

the fourth annual Pride and Progress Gala and 100th Birthday Celebration of Marie Greenwood will be on saturday, november 24th at 6 pm at the Denver Museum of nature and science.

tickets for this fund-raising gala event to benefit the Black American west Museum are $75.00 and may be purchased by calling 720-242-7428, or emailing [email protected].

For more information regarding the Black American west Gala see page 10.

–Misti Aas

100 year young Marie L. Greenwood, led the Pledge of Allegiance prior to President Barack Obama’s speech

Newly elected House Representative Jovan Melton

have a lot of work to do, but i know that Democrats will be working hard for ev-eryone across Colorado.”

in 1894, Joseph H. stuart became the first African American elected to the Colorado legislature. During his legisla-tive term, stuart sponsored a bill to end housing discrimination and other forms of racial intolerance. The first African American woman elected to the Colorado House of Representatives was Arie taylor in 1972. other notables in the history of the House include wellington webb, wil-ma Webb, Penfield Tate, and Rosemary Marshall. in 2008, terrance Carroll be-came the first African American Speaker of the House.

– Misti Aas

2012

COLORADO VOTERS PASS ALL BALLOT ISSUES

Amendment 64 – Legalizes marijuana possession for a person 21 years or older.

Yes – 54.8% : no – 45.2%

Amendment 65 – Urges the state to support tweaks in state policy on limiting corporate contributions and expenditures in state and national elections.

Yes – 73.8% : no – 26.2%

Amendment S – implements certain testing methods for job applicants, restricts the number of finalists for a particular job or position, places limits on hiring temporary workers, and requires that applicants be resi-dents of the state.

Yes – 56.3% : no – 43.7%

10 8 5 Points news

Black American West Musem Galathe Black American west Museum

& Heritage Center is pleased to announce our 4th Annual Pride & Progress Gala, saturday, november 24, 2012, at the Den-ver Museum of nature and science (re-ception at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 7:00 p.m.)

in addition, the Greenwood Family of Denver will honor our Gala by cel-ebrating the 100th birthday of their ma-triarch, Dr. Marie Greenwood. she is a Colorado icon, pioneer, author, educa-tor, activist and philanthropist. Proceeds from the event will be shared by the Dr. Marie L. Greenwood scholarship Fund at the University of northern Colorado and the Black American west Museum & Heritage Center’s operations and educa-tional programs.

the Honorable, terrance Carroll, former speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event and Denver

Mayor and Mrs. Michael Hancock are Honorary Chairs.

Many were told “there is no such thing as a Black cowboy,” but they were wrong. Golden nuggets of Black history are continually discovered when sifting through the settled dust of Colorado’s western past. Colorado’s Black Ameri-can west Museum has enriched countless lives by collecting, preserving and shar-ing the history of “the Colors of west” for more than 40 years.

Please help us to maintain the lega-cy of the Black American west. we are looking forward to your support and at-tendance at our Gala.

tickets are $75 and can be purchased at the BAwM 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., tuesday through saturday, from our Board members on line at www.blacka-mericanwestmuseum.org.

Five Points Business District : Holiday at the Points the Five Points Business District

announced that “Holiday at the Points: illuminating the spirit of the season and our community”, an engagement event and holiday tradition for the neighbor-hoods as well as industry and commu-nity partners, will be held on saturday, December 8th from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM in front of Coffee at the Point located on welton street. the Five Points Business District has partnered with the Denver Urban League, Colorado Black Cham-

ber of Commerce, Colorado Black Arts Festival and KM Marketing and event Management to organize the event. the Five Points Business District, along with the identified partners, invite the commu-nity to join them for a tree lighting, hot chocolate and other libations, story-tell-ing, holiday music and good community joy. For more information on the Five Points Business District and/or the event please visit www.fivepointsbiz.org or call 303.884.4845.

Members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Leadership Academy and Convention

Recently over sixty-five Alumni and College Brothers gathered for a weekend of leadership development and capac-ity building based on the theme of “en-gineering the Future”. the session was called to order by the General President and western Region Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, inc., Brother Aaron Crutison sr., and western Region Assistant Vice President Brother LiQuan M. Hunt. During the weekend, mutiple breakout sessions were held to empower members through experiential learning opportunities, professional development and technical assistance to enhance the delivery of services to campuses and communities across the western Region. Additionally, specific focus was given to

our College Brother members, as we dis-cussed the challenges faced by African American males which attend colleges and universities; which are not Histori-cally Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s).

Denver will also host the 65th west-ern Regional Convention, at the Denver technical Center Hyatt Regency Hotel, April 10 – 14, 2013. Last year’s west-ern Regional Convention was held in Las Vegas, nevada. it is estimated the annual western Regional Convention generates over $100,000.00 for the host community. For additional information about the 65th western Regional Convention please con-tact; Brother steven L. Jones e-mail ad-dress: [email protected].

MLK Commission Seeks Nominees

next year, 2013, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Dr. King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail. Dr. King had been arrested for parading without a per-mit against segregation. His open letter in 1963 stated: “inJUstiCe AnYwHeRe is A tReAt to JUstiCe eVeRY-wHeRe.”

the Dr. King holiday has been cel-ebrated in Colorado for 28 years. in those 28 years, we have marched for justice re-alizing that injustice is still a threat. Al-though we are still facing some of these same issues fifty years later, there are those who are seeking to ensure that jus-tice will prevail.

therefore, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Colorado Holiday Commission’s Humanitarian Awards Committee is seek-ing nominations of individuals or organi-zations that have given freely from their hearts to others, who have given their talent, time, and energy to meet unmet needs, stir hope, speak for the voiceless, and build a better world, if for just one person at a time.

Adults, young people, organizations, and groups who volunteer their time and talents are our focus. we also seek people working in service positions whose pas-sion for the people or causes they serve pushes them to regularly go above and

beyond their job duties. we are equally interested in those youth who are setting an example for all in the Colorado com-munity.

we want to honor six of these “mes-sage carriers” on tuesday, January 15, 2013, with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award, to be presented dur-ing a community reception and concert by the Colorado symphony orchestra that is held annually to celebrate Dr. King’s life and work.

Your nominee will be in excellent company. Humanitarian recipients have come from all walks of life, but each has been driven, as Dr. King was, by a desire to help make the world a better place. Past recipients of the Humanitarian Awards are listed on the back of this letter. Current Humanitarian Awards Committee mem-bers are not eligible for consideration; their names are listed on the left.

the form is also available online at www.drmartlkingjrchc.org under “Hu-manitarian Awards.” Feel free to down-load and copy the form and share it with others. Please mail, e-mail to: [email protected], or to [email protected] or fax your nomination form to 720-865-2408 by 5 p.m. Friday, november 30, 2012.

–Terry Nelson, Chair

nAtionAL CoUnCiLoF neGRo woMen DenVeR seCtion

21st Annual Founder’s Day Harambee Brunch Celebration

Keynote Speaker Colorado State Representative Rhonda Fields

saturday, December 1, 2012 | 11:00 amDouble tree Hotel | 3203 Quebec street

TICKETS$60 adults $35 children 12 and underwww.ncnwdenver.org | 303.296.4359

Jack and Jill Beautillionthe Denver Chapter of Jack and Jill

of America, inc will present the 29th an-nual Beautillion on sunday, December 16 at the sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel, located at 1550 Court Place. the doors will open promptly at 4:00 p.m. Formal attire is requested.

Members and associates invite you to join them for this time honored rite of passage celebration. twenty-four African American, high school senior, young men will be honored. there will also be a pre-

sentation of the Power, Promise and Po-tential of our future. the evening will be the most beautiful and magical event of your holiday season.

For more information

or to purchase tickets,

email [email protected]

or visit www.jack-and-jill-denver.org

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Vice Admiral Michelle Janine Howard

Aurora Woman : First to Receive Three-Star RankVice Admiral Michelle Janine How-

ard became the first African-American woman promoted to a three-star rank in the U.s. armed forces, as she became a deputy commander of U.s. Fleet Forces.

Howard, a 1978 graduate of Gate-way High School, was the first African-American woman to command a U.s. Navy warship, the first female graduate of the naval Academy to achieve the rank of rear admiral, and the first African-Ameri-can woman to command an expeditionary strike group at sea.

the history making ceremony in norfolk, VA, was attended by a Colorado contingency of family and friends.

5 POINTS NEWS salutes World War II Veterans Ted Wade and Norman Harris Sr.

5 POINTS’ OWN WWII VETERANS

As the nation paused this moth to cel-ebrate Veterans Day, 5 Points news would like to take an opportunity to salute our very own world war ii living legends, ted wade and norman Harris sr.

the average age of world war ii veterans is approximately 89 years old. Harris, 96 and wade continue to be very active in the community. we thank these two and all veterans for your service.

McDonalds Owner Geta Asfaw (center) along with seniors at Annual Thanksgiving Dinner

Epworth volunteer helps distribute over 7,000 Thanksgiving boxes at Annual Daddy Bruce event.

The Spirit of Thanksgiving and Denver Traditions

seniors in the Denver Metro area have been treated annually since the early 1990’s, to a free thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings.

Geta and Janice Asfaw first served area senior citizens at their McDonalds restaurant on Broadway and 6th Avenue 20 years ago. the tradition was moved to their Park Hill McDonalds on Colorado Boulevard due to the larger space accom-modations.

when asked why the Asfaws host this dinner each year, Janice replied, “this is our way of giving back to another branch of our community. serving senior citizens is where we started. over the past 20 years we’ve served over 10,000 seniors.”

this event kicks off the Asfaw Fam-ily Foundation international’s season of giving, which includes their Annual Arch-es of Hope bicycle give away awards, that takes place December 9, at Manual High school.

Another annual thanksgiving event

commemorating the spirit and generosity of “Daddy Bruce” Randolph is the ep-worth Foundation’s Denver Feed A Fam-ily: Giving Thanks One Basket at a Time.

each year on the saturday before thanksgiving, a giant assembly line made up of hundreds of volunteers, help pack donated food from wal-Mart into boxes to be distributed to over 7,000 families in need. this year’s distribution will be on saturday november 17, 9 a.m to 2 p.m., at 1865 Bruce Randolph Avenue.

on thursday, november 22, 10:30 a.m., the new Birth Baptist Church, 2937 Fillmore street, will hold a special Com-munity thanksgiving worship Celebra-tion.

the event will give God Praise and thanksgiving for a great victory in the re-election of President Barack obama, and all the Blessings God has given in the midst of each individual’s challenges. Fol-lowing worship, a hot “to go meal” will be shared for the homeless.

Toys for Kids(Free Toys for kids ages 4-12)

saturday, December 15, 2012 | 1-5 p.m.

Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library2401 welton street, Denver, Colorado 80205

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12 8 5 Points news

CALDWELL-KIRK MORTUARY2101 Marion Street • Denver, Colorado 80205

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november 2012 8 13

5 Points News Photo GalleryCBWPA Annual Celebration and Tribute Delta Annual Mile High Step Show

Strong and determined, the Honorable Shirley Franklin delivers CBWPA keynote address

CBWPA Welcomes Former Atlanta Mayor

in 1977, thirteen founding members of the Colorado Black women for Po-litical Action (CBwPA) envisioned an organization that would provide leader-ship and “operate to ensure that full par-ticipation in governing was initiated and sustained at the highest level.” Thirty-five years later, that vision continues to be realized and plays an important role in shaping Colorado’s political landscape.

Founders Glenda C. Barry and for-mer state senator the Honorable Gloria travis tanner co-chaired this year’s 35th Anniversary Celebration and 33rd An-nual tribute to Black women Luncheon. the afternoon consisted of entertainment, networking, and voter registration. seven women were honored and added to the CBwPA ongoing list of outstanding com-munity servants.

“our goal is to engage all Black women in the political process,” the co-chairs shared in a joint statement to mem-bers, supporters, and friends. “today, the organization’s steadfast commitment to the vision of the founders is evident through its programs and services to the community.”

the downtown Denver Marriott ball-room was filled to capacity and partici-

pants were blown away by the insightful and witty keynote address by the Honor-able shirley Franklin. “i didn’t know this many Black folk lived in Denver!” the former two-term mayor of Atlanta and the first African American woman mayor of a major southern city jokingly remarked. “i was pretty good in history. i went to an all Black school. How come nobody told me about all ya’ll coming out here?”

As the laughter settled, Franklin be-gan laying a serious historical foundation and recalled the many sacrifices made by those whose lives were given to bring forth recent political leaders. “today we are witnessing historic events that no one ever dreamed possible,” she said. “And we owe it to the next generation of lead-ers to help grow and nurture them.”

Franklin’s remarks were directly in line with the afternoon’s theme “Black women shaping and Revolutionizing a new Generation of Leaders.” in addition to reaching back and reclaiming former members, CBwPA President elma Joyce Hairston stressed, “we must not forget our youth and the leadership academy on the horizon to groom politically savvy girls.”

–brother jeff

“brother jeffi Want that PhOtO!”

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14 8 5 Points news

New Church Making Impact in Five Points

More than 150 volunteers from nearly 10 churches helped distribute coats, clothes and food in Curtis Park

Last saturday nearly 1,000 people crowded Curtis Park to receive new win-ter jackets, food and clothes. Despite cold and snowy conditions, more than 500 brand new jackets were distributed, as well as several hundred pounds of donated non-perishable food items and clothing.

the event was the second annual Coat outreach presented by Urban out-reach Denver (Uo Denver), a new neigh-bor in the Five Points community. Urban outreach began leasing the property lo-cated at 608 26th street (in the Cousins Building) in June, and has fully renovated the property in preparation for the launch-ing of a new church.

the church – City Life Church – re-cently held its first open house and now has “open House” meetings eachwednes-day at 6 p.m. According to isaac olivarez, Lead Pastor of City Life Church and Di-rector of Uo Denver, “open House” gath-erings will be held each wednesday until March 17, when the church will launch-sunday morning services.

since March 2011, Pastor olivarez had preached in hundreds of churches around the United states sharing his bur-

den for Five Points and generating re-sources. now, he says, he is ready to pour that same energy into the community.

“we’re not just here to stand behind a pulpit and preach. we are here to glad-ly serve this community in any way we can,” olivarez says. “we have developed a broad network of teams that are anxious to come to our community and serve as well.”

the relationship between Uo Denver and City Life Church is unique in that, es-sentially, they are one in the same. City Life Church meets and exists to reach the broken and the hurting, and when it does that, it does so through the avenue of Uo Denver.

“Urban outreach is simply the vehi-cle through which we minister the love of Jesus Christ in the community,” olivarez says.

For more information, feel free to go to their web site, www.lovedenver.org, or e-mail Pastor isaac directly [email protected]. You may also call the church at (720) 989-1827.

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5 POINTS NEWS Journalist Aliyah Fard (12)

Let the Kids Vote!

november 6, 2012 was the day where we were to elect our president. it was be-tween Governor Mitt Romney and Presi-dent Barack obama. there was commer-cial after commercial even months before the election. A few days before the elec-tion, i asked all of my friends who they would have voted for, and out of 5 people, only one person said Governor Romney, the rest said President obama.

this made me wonder why kids can’t vote. it seems to me that we all have an opinion so why can’t we voice it? the answer is that we are too young. i don’t think there should be an age limit about who can and can’t vote. My friends and i are 12, and we do know who we would

vote for. i asked Mariam sheriff if she thinks it is fair that there is an age limit, and why she thinks the government has one. she answered, “ i think there is an age limit because the people in charge don’t think we have an opinion, but we do and i think it should be counted. we want to be a part of this as well as any other adult.” i absolutely agree with her. Kids should be a part of big things like an elec-tion as well. Big things can come in small packages, and i, as well as all of my other classmates think that as well. Although kids can’t vote, i am so glad that i was able to watch the election, and i am so glad that President Barack obama, stays President obama.

november 2012 8 15

Dancing With the Stars Goes Old School

tuesday afternoonCommunity bible Study ClassEvery Tuesday (through December)12:30 pm –2:00 pm

New Hope Baptist Church303.322.5200

Everyone is invited to attend.Rev. Eugene Downing, Jr. D. Minis the Pastor & Teacher.

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Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD) held its 42nd Anniversary season Cel-ebration Dancing with the Denver Stars fundraising gala. For the third year, busi-ness and community leaders danced on

stage to support the education programs of CPRD. this year’s Denver stars per-formed to a 70s showcase theme in honor of the decade that CPRD was established.

51 Years of Committed Service to the lnner CityHoPe Center is entering its 51st year

of service as a community agency based in the Heart of Denver. HoPe has been in existence since 1962, providing qual-ity early Childhood education (eCe) for children two to five years old. We serve primarily low income families considered to be at-risk for many different reasons.

nationally accredited since 1984, our agency’s programs have served approxi-mately 50,000 combined families, com-munity members, and individuals. we believe that children need a healthy and enriched learning environment in order to have a needed head start for kindergarten.

We offer two programs. Our first program, eCe, serves approximately 200 children from underserved and low-socio economic backgrounds. we offer a mul-ticultural curriculum in academics, social skills, and pre-kindergarten skills, and we host monthly parent meetings covering behavior management to Kindergarten transition. HoPe offers breakfast, lunch and a snack under the Colorado Depart-ment of Public Health and environment food program. our ultimate goal is for children to be well prepared for their tran-sition into kindergarten.

our second program is a Vocational Program serving adults with disabilities; providing supervision, employment, as-sessment, community activities, training and placement to adults from the age of 16 who have been diagnosed as devel-opmentally disabled. Unlike some other programs, the Vocational Program does not strive for the end goal of simply find-ing low-wage jobs or time filling activi-ties for disabled adults. Rather, our pro-fessional and personal commitment is to the development of the whole individual for a greater and longer-term return.

HoPe Center has had countless suc-cess stories over the years. one of these successes, Quinn Gordon-Freel, is a for-mer alumni from 2008-2010. He attended HoPe Center when he was 4 years old and was placed within HoPe’s Gifted Program, where his speaking abilities developed and he overcame his shyness. Currently, Quinn is a seven year old third grader attending the Denver Language school, where he is learning his entire core curriculum in Mandarin Chinese.

For more information about HoPe, or about our upcoming March fund raiser, please call 303-388-4801.

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Seasons Greetings

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The caring and experienced professionals at Pipkin Braswell are here to support you through this difficult time. We offer a range of personalized services to suit your family’s wishes and requirements. You can count on us to help you plan a personal, lasting tribute to your loved one. And we’ll carefully guide you through the many decisions that must be made during this challenging time.

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