december 2012
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Greenwood Celebrates 100th Birthday, Now Faith Christian Center Celebrates 29 Years of Ministry, Katt Williams in Trouble Again, Suspect Shoots Local Man is Hero, Madame CJ Walker Legacy Returns, History of Five Points and Northeast Denver Beauty Professionals, National Author and TV Host in Denver, Kwanzaa 2012 in Denver, and much more...TRANSCRIPT
Happenings in and around Historic 5 Points and Northeast DenverDecember 2012
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155 Points newsonLine nowat www.5Pointsnews.com
Greenwood Celebrates 100th Birthday
Now Faith Christian Center Celebrates 29 Years of Ministry
Forward is where now Faith Christian Center Church is going with Apostle Leon M. and Co-Pastor Yvonne emerson at the helm. they celebrated their 29th Anniversary, with several hundred congregants, dignitaries, and clergy leaders from across Colorado. the atmosphere was electric with choirs and praise teams, followed by an array of pastoral leadership; testifying to the integrity and spirit of God that the emerson’s embody.
when asked what did being honored in this manner mean to him, Apostle emerson stated “it was an honor that i have my wife by my side and we had so many of our friends come and support us. this has been 29 years of blessed time, winning souls and being a blessing to our community. we could not have done it without our children, now Faith Church Family, and all of our friends who have labored in the fields with us serving God.”
Reverend Dr. eugene Downing, sr. Pastor of new Hope Baptist Church, delivered a rousing and inspirational word. Upon Dr. Downing’s closing, Co-Pastor Yvonne Emerson stated, “I’m excited and ready. My expiration date is not up!”
watch out Colorado. now Faith Christian Center Church has their mandate. Forward March!–Terrance Hughes
Dr. Johnny Johnson (first photo bottom left) was among hundreds that turned out to celebrate 29 years of Church Ministry
From left to right: Co-Pastor Yvonne and Apostle Leon Emerson, Dr. Eugene Downing Jr.
Marie Greenwood, the first African-American woman to be awarded a permanent teaching contract in Denver Public Schools, celebrated her century mark at the Fourth Annual Pride and Progress Gala hosted by the Black American west Museum. over 200 guests, including friends relatives, and former students, attended the milestone party in Greenwood’s honor. the Gala was held at the Museum of nature and science. Dr. Anthony Young, Chairman of the Black American west Board of Directors, was master of ceremonies. A good time was had by all.
–Misti Aas
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Merry Christmas
Joyous Kwanzaa
Feliz NavidadHappy Hanukka
Happy Holidays from5 POINTS NEWS
2 8 5 Points news
December 2012 8 3
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
Camille Smith
5 Points News is a publication of brotherjeff.com
2836 Welton StreetDenver, CO 80205
At one hundred years young, Marie L. Greenwood is a perfect example of living life well.
i had the pleasure to be among sev-eral hundred guests at the recent Black American west Museum Gala in honor
Did You Know, Life Begins at 100?
Talkn’ With Dr. DaddioSaturdays 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
December 1 was World AIDS Day. We asked our readers:“What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear HIV/AIDS?
The first thing, be honest.” Here are some of your responses...
the folks i know that suffer or have suffered | Death | over rated scare tactic slow, painful death | eugenics | Money, lies and the CDC | My people Healthcare for people of color | sadness. sickness. Death (but i’m older) stigma | Honestly...i am glad i don’t have it | Blacks have the highest rates of itthe correlation of women and people of color | Biological warfare Abstinence | we need a cure | Black folks | sex | it could have been me troublesome because people still are ignorant of the facts | Unprotected sex People being uneducated about HiV/AiDs | Know your status, get tested Get tested...i know my status | why don’t we hear about AiDs anymore? | that it is infecting our Black women especially in the south at an enormous rate and it just begs to question...what’s going on?
Comments to the Editor
Northeast Denver’s Own Receives Ph.D.
on December 15, Ryan e. Ross, born and raised in Denver’s east side and Five Points, will add an addition to
it seems that Denver isn’t the only place that comedian Katt williams leaves a bad impression–see November 2012 edition of 5 POINTS NEWS.
williams recently spent an event-ful weekend in seattle where he was charged with assault, harassment, and obstruction following several run-ins with fans, bar patrons, and police.
Following his arrest, a tearful wil-liams said, “i’m just gonna go ahead and announce my retirement from stand-up, I’m kinda done.”
He plans to file a $50 million law-suit against the city of seattle for dam-aging his reputation. However, it seems williams is doing a very good job of that all by himself.
Comedian Katt Williams in Trouble AgainMarie L. Greenwood and brother jeff
his name–doctor! Ross has earned his Ph.D. in edu-
cational Leadership and innovation from the University of Colorado Denver and has been named the Distinguished Graduate from the school of education.
His contemporary research offers a counter to the normal conversation re-garding African American males and his dissertation: A Counter to the Proposed Crisis: Exploring the Experiences of Successful African American Males, aims to shine a light on success and solutions rather than focusing on the “doom and gloom” so often associated with African American males.
5 POINTS News congratulates Dr. Ross!
The Law Office ofJessica Jackson-Barrows, LLc
Former Brooklyn, NY Prosecutor Specializing in Criminal Defense and Personal Injury
695 South Colorado Blvd., Suite 480Denver, Colorado 80246
PH: 303.898.2698 | FAX: 303.722.7281
Payment Arrangements Available
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of Greenwood’s centennial birthday. Always poised and charming,
this matriarch of Denver Public school education inspires the very best in everyone around her.
As we enter into this holiday sea-son, let’s all take a page from Green-wood’s life story and do whatever we can to help others travel the path of greatness. it is through the help-ing of others that we find the best in ourselves.
i also want to take this opportu-nity to thank everyone who has made 5 POINTS News a much sought af-ter community paper. we continue to generate great stories and features based on your many phone calls and e-mail. Keep them coming.
From everyone here at 5 POINTS News, happy holidays and all the best to you and yours in the coming year.
–brother jeff
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Unsung Hero Albert “Papa” Brown prevents what may have become another Aurora tragedy
Grace Stiles, founder of Stiles African American Heritage Center displays Madam C. J. Walker products.
Suspect Shoots; Local Man is Hero
it is true Madam C. J. walker got her entrepreneurial start in northeast Denver and went on to found the original Madam C. J. walker Manufacturing Company. A forerunner to oprah, it is also true walker became the country’s first self-made wom-an millionaire, used her wealth for social justice, and was filled with racial pride.
However, it is totally untrue and a long standing myth that the early twentieth century Queen of Hair and Beauty Prod-ucts made her fortune selling “straighten-ing combs” and “skin bleaches. ”
“Right here, let me correct the errone-ous impression held by some that i claim to straighten hair,” Walker told a reporter in 1918 after she had been called the “de-kink queen” by a white newspaper, “I deplore such an impression because i have held myself out as a hair culturist. I grow hair.”
stiles African American Heritage Center in Historic Five Points has pre-served the truth of Madam C. J. walker, and has kept her northeast Denver legacy
alive. stiles founder, Grace stiles was in-strumental in naming Madam C. J. walker Park near Manual High school. she also portrays walker in historical reenactments.
After a recent visit to walker’s india-napolis mansion and estate, stiles and her daughter Kala Greene returned home as authorized agents. they now sell and dis-tribute the modern Madame C..J. walker product line.
if you are interested in purchasing or distributing Madam C. J. walker quality hair care products, they are available at stiles African American Heritage Center.
–brother jeff
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Madam C. J. Walker’s Legacy Returns
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303.294.0597 | 720.276.0741Open
Mon., Weds. & Fri. {11am-3pm}Sat. {2pm-4pm} or by appointment
it’s Black Friday and you’re shop-ping at the Aurora target store on Havana. You notice a nearby man sliding a black ski mask over his head. the man pulls out a gun, fires it, and tells the pharmacy clerk to give him the money and drugs. items in hand, the man begins fanning his weapon at terrified shoppers. What would you do?
For northeast Denver native Albert “Papa” Brown, younger brother of the de-ceased Martial Arts master Jessie Brown, his reaction was heroically incredible—go for the gun and save lives.
Brown’s lifetime of physical and self-defense training instinctively took over as he told everyone to “get down!” He then grabbed the suspect’s arm, got him to the ground, and in doing so, this unsung hero may have averted another tragedy like the recent Aurora theater massacre.
“He got up, runs to the door and begins fanning and waving the gun,” Brown told 5 POINTS News. “He takes off. i take off af-ter him. He’s throwing off clothes. i run him down, and catch him by the Golden Corral Restaurant.”
when the police arrived, they asked
Brown if he could positively identify the suspect. “Yes, that’s him,” he said. Then something strange occurred. Because the suspect didn’t have a black jacket on, the police let him go.
ten minutes later, Brown is in a police car and heading back to target as a wit-ness. then a call comes over the police ra-dio. “the police admitted they made a mis-take,” said Brown. “They found the coat, and all the stuff. It was the guy they let go.”
shortly thereafter, Aurora police re-arrested John R. Pomeroy, 33, who is now being held on $50,000 bail.
“Mainstream news reported the sus-pect was caught by police!” e-mailed earnest Reese, who shared this incredible story with 5 POINTS News. “For too long, too many young Black men doing positive and brave things go with no recognition!”
Aurora police spokeswoman, Cas-sidee Carlson confirmed Brown as a wit-ness, but did not comment further because this is an open case that has been turned over to the district attorney’s office.
–brother jeff
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BJ’s Hair sensations styLing saLon
2242 Oneida St., Denver, CO(303) 322-4999 |(720) 352-0102 | (720) 448-1329
Multi-CulturalWalk-ins Welcome!
Booth Rentals & Commissions Available – Low Rates!
Color Cut | Eyelashes| Weaves | Press & Curls | Highlights Latch Hook | Facial Waxing|Special Service Mani & Pedi
Evelyn Whitlock, OwnerBeautiful Hair and Nails
Full Service Salon Specializing in Healthy Hair
303.377.55405540 E. 33rd Avenue
Denver, CO 80207
Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 7pm
Monday VIP
Charlene’s House of Beauty and Wallace’s Beauty Nook
Charlene’s House of Beauty and wallace’s Beauty nook are names forever weaved into Five Points business history. Proprietors Charlene Jordon and the late willie wallace Birch met in 1956. Birch moved to Denver from texas, worked six months as Jordon’s stylist, and that same year established her own salon at 2757 welton.
in 1981, wallace’s Beauty nook was renovated and renamed Five Points Beauty and Barber supply. Daughters Catherine wallace and Joyce washington inherited the business after their mother’s passing in 2007.
“in addition to beauty and barber sup-plies, we specialize in old fashion Press-n-Curls, Cold-wave Curls, and hair cuts, “ says wallace. “we also offer plenty of love and respect.”
BJ’s Hair Sensationevelyn whitlock and Bridget John-
son always wanted to have a business together. the mother-daughter dream became a reality nearly eight years ago when they opened BJ’s Hair sensation styling salon.
“we do one customer at a time, rather than overbooking,” says Johnson. “We don’t believe in having people waiting, or sitting in our salon all day” BJ’s high-quality service and friendly atmosphere keep customers coming back.
Beautiful Hair and NailsHair has always been a passion of
Felicia o’donnell proprietor of Beauti-ful Hair and nails. togetherness best describes her stylists and esthetician. “we stick together, provide great cus-tomer service, and love to communicate.” o’donnel is also a community role model. she spends a considerable amount of time outside her shop providing positive af-firmations and guidance to neighborhood residents.
Hair WorksHair works Beauty salon will be
celebrating their fifteenth anniversary in February. Proprietor tracy Moore knew she wanted to do hair at 16 and received her license from Manual High school. Moore went on to Grambling University and paid her tuition by doing hair.
“Hair works is known for doing whatever you want. if you want it, we can do it,” says Moore, as a customer praises her finished style. “This is a great salon. we do all types of hair from locks, to col-or, to weaves, natural etc. Anything you want, we can do here.”
......it’s been said, if you don’t look good
nothing else matters. the holidays are a busy time for most salons as women throughout the city prepare to look their very best.
Visit any of these fine salons, and be sure to tell them 5 POINTS NEWS sent you.
Five Points/northeast Denver Beauty ProfessionalsKeeping us looking good for the holidays and all year round
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Five PointsBeauty & Barber Supply
2757 welton streetDenver, Co 80205
303.298.1078
Hair Works2201 Lafayette street
Denver, Co 80205303.864.1585
Beautiful Hair and Nails5540 e. 33rd AvenueDenver, Co 80207
303.377.5540
BJ’s Hair Sensation2242 oneida st.
Denver, Co 80207303.322.4999 | 720.352.0102
720.448.1329
Known as The Pearl of Five Points, willie wallace Burch along with her family, moved from texas in 1956 and purchased a beautiful Victo-rian home at 2757 welton.
From 1956-1972 the wallace home also served as Wallace’s Beauty Nook. in 1981 the home was renovated and became Five Points Beauty and Barber Supply.
Burch passed away october 7, 2007. Her daughters Catherine and Joyce continue to own and operate the business. the family legacy continues.
Family LegacyContinues
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Businesses & Services Along WeltonAdvertising 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
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
Spark Policy Institute2717 welton, Denver, Co 80205(303) 455-1740
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
insurAnceThe Insurance Stop2736 welton st. #106, Denver, Co 80205(303) 576-8000
legAl servicesA Release Bail Bonding www.releasebonds.com(303) 523-4447
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- 8445
KUVO2900 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.
Holiday Lights and Spirit in the Points
we all noticed the festive lights spring-ing up along welton street this month, and waited with bated breath as Perry Ayers and his team transformed Zona’s historic build-ing into a decorated gingerbread house and showered the Points with colorful lights.
Ayers has been working his creative holiday flair along Welton since 1997, and this is the fourth year of an official lighting project sponsored by the Five Points Busi-ness District.
The official lighting ceremony at 27th and welton, presided over by Carlos Lando from KUVo as master of ceremony, drew a large crowd on a chilly evening. the Col-
orado Movement Choir, directed by Rays-hun walker, performed The Star Spangled Banner, and Councilman Albus Brooks spoke before the countdown to the magical collaboration of turning on the lights.
tracy winchester, director of the Five Points Business District, paid tribute to Marva Coleman, past director of the Five Points Business Association, in observance of her recent passing.
the Gilpin Montessori Children’s Choir sang holiday selections, santa Claus was available for pictures, and refresh-ments were served by Coffee at the Point to round out the event.
5 Points holiday lighting team Michael Stockton, Perry Ayers, and DJ Woogie Fresh
Sharon S. DanielsReal Estate Broker
DavE SmitH REalty Co.2015 E. 26th avenue, Denver, Co 80205
303.295.2084303.366.2239303.908.6252
Office Home
Cell
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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
(303) 295-2404
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
(303) 291-1354
A&A Fish2896 Fairfax st., Denver, Co 80207
(303) 399-3730
Welton Street Cafe2736 welton st., Denver, Co 80205
(303) 308-0860
Frank’s Kitchen2600 High st.
Denver, Co 80205(303) 296-3838
Cora Fayes2861 Colorado Blvd. Denver, Co 80207
(303) 333-5551
WT Snack Shop5560 east 33rd street
Denver, Co 80207(303) 329-0335
Five Points & Northeast Denver Restaurants
Five Points Media
Happenings in and around Historic 5 Points
Neat Stuff at the Black MarketFeaturing Unique Items for Every Occasion
Visit us today for special gifts
your loved ones will cherish.
2547 WeltonDenver, CO 80205
303.382.1337
National Author and TV Host in Denver
the Moneywise empowerment sem-inar came to shorter Community AMe Church on December 4, and was led by national best-selling author and PBs Moneywise tV host, Kelvin Boston.
the seminar focused on overcoming financial fear and stress, finding employ-ment, starting a business, increasing sav-ings and investments, protecting retire-
ment, reducing debt, and more. Boston shared his formula for finan-
cial success, including the concept that your financial health includes your physi-cal health.
nutritionist Robert Ferguson, author of Diet-Free Life, was a featured speaker, presenting on how to combine the right foods to lose weight without dieting.
PBS Monywise Host Kelvin Boston and Shorter Community AME Church Pastor Rev. Dr. Timothy Tyler
2013
Mohamadou Cisse Returns from Senegal
Mohamadou Lamine Cisse delivers school supplies to Omar Dia’s village in Senegal
Mohamadou Lamine Cisse, director of the African Heritage Celebration, re-turned from Rufisque, Senegal after de-livering school supplies to 1,975 students and 19 schools as part of his organiza-tion’s Annual school supply Campaign.
African Heritage Celebration was
created in 2005 to support the village and family of omar Dia who was killed in 1997 in an unprovoked hate crime.
the Celebration has completed twelve trips to senegal, delivering text-books and school supplies to several vil-lages.
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rememboring our AncestorsHonoring Our Elders & Supporting our Youth
According to Kwanzaa’s creator Dr. Maulana Karenga, “it (Kwanzaa) was created in 1966 in the midst of our struggles for liberation and was part of our organization Us’ efforts to create, recreate and circulate African cul-ture as an aid to building community, enriching Black consciousness, and reaffirming the value of cultural grounding for life and struggle.”
in his preface to Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture, Karenga writes, “Clearly within these 30 years, interest in Kwan-zaa has steadily grown and so has the number of it celebrants. this phe-nomenal growth, which includes over 20 million celebrants throughout the world African community, is engendered and sustained by the rich and varied meaning Kwanzaa has for us as a people. the holiday speaks to our constant quest to be rooted in our own culture, to speak our own special cul-tural truth in a multicultural world and to practice values and share a vision which reaffirms and reinforces the best of family, community and culture.”
it is important to know the seven values and seven symbols central to Kwanzaa. the values bind the celebration together, whereas the symbols are instructional and inspirational. Dr. Karenga explains each as follows:
The Seven ValuesUmoja (Unity) to strive and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race
Kujichagulia (self-Determination)To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves
Ujima (Collective work and Responsibility)to build and maintain our community together and make our brother’s and sister’s problems our problems and to solve them together
Ujamaa (Cooperative economics)to build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together
Nia (Purpose)to make our collective vocation the building and developing of our com-munity in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness
Kuumba (Creativity)to do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it
Imani (Faith)to believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle
Habari Gani! It’s Kwanzaa time! Get ready and come celebrate the African American community harvest. From December 26 through January 1, there will be numerous public and private gatherings throughout the state. The Denver Kwanzaa Committee continues the tradition of remembering our ancestors, honoring our elders and engaging our youth.
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Between 1964 and 1968, there was race rioting in Newark, New Jersey; Rochester, New York; Cleveland, Ohio; Cincinnati, Ohio, Detroit, Michigan and numerous cities nationwide. Most significant were the Harlem Riot of 1964, the Watts Riot of 1965, and the Detroit Riot of 1967.
Fueled by racial tension and frustration, America was going up in flames. Six months before the Watts Riot, Nation of Islam minister Malcolm X was assassinated in Harlem. His death gave birth to revolutionary organizations such as Us (United Slaves), Black Panther Party for Self Defense, Republic of New Africa, Malcomites and countless others. Three years after the death of Malcolm, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis and one hundred cities went up in flame; the wisdom of non- violence was on trial while Black protest swept America. When the smoke settled, beneath death, destruction and the smoldering ashes of the turbulent sixties, Kwanzaa was born.
Kwanzaa, a Swahili word meaning first fruit is a seven-day, non-religious, non-political and non-hero African American cultural celebration based on agrarian harvest celebrations of Africa. Created in 1966 by scholar and cul-tural activist Dr. Maulana Karenga, the celebration is observed annually from December 26 through January 1, and includes five basic activities—ingather-ing, reverence, remembrance, excellence and good.
From Ashes to Tradition
KWANZ A A 2012Kwanzaa Schedule of Events
UmojAWednesday, 12.26.12
10:30 a.m. | Zion Senior Luncheon Zion senior Center, 5151 e. 33rd Ave.
2 -5 p.m. | Kwanzaa Kick-offBlair Caldwell Library
2401 welton street
6 p.m. | Lighting of the Kinara Blair Caldwell Library
2401 welton street(Followed by Parade to
Cleo Parker Robinson theater )
6 p.m | Kwanzaa 101 shorter AMe Church
3100 Richard Allen Ct.
7 p.m. | First Night CelebrationCleo Parker Robinson theatre
119 Park Avenue west
KUjIchAgUlIAThursday, 12.27.12
2 p.m. - Family Kwanzaa CelebrationPauline Robinson Branch Library
5575 e. 33rd Ave.
6 p.m. | Lighting of KinaraBlair Caldwell Library, 2401 welton street
7 p.m. | Kujichagulia Programbrother jeff’s Cultural Center
2836 welton street
UjImAFriday, 12.28.12
11 a.m. | Family Kwanzaa CelebrationByers Branch Library675 santa Fe Drive
6 p.m. | Lighting of KinaraBlair Caldwell Library, 2401 welton street
6:30 p.m. | Ujima Programbrother jeff’s Cultural Center
2836 welton street
UjAmAASaturday 12.29.12
2 p.m. | Family Kwanzaa CelebrationGreen Valley Branch Library
4856 n. Andes st. Denver
5 p.m. | The Big DanceZion senior Center5151east 33rd Ave.
Dinner will be served. $5 Donation
6 p.m. | Lighting of KinaraBlair Caldwell Library, 2401 welton street
NIASunday, 12.30.12
6 p.m. | Lighting of KinaraBlair Caldwell Library, 2401 welton street
6:45 p.m. | Nia Purpose ProgramBlack American west Museum
3091 California st.
KUUmbAMonday, 12.31.12
1:30 p.m. | Family Kwanzaa CelebrationBlair Caldwell African American
Research Library2401 welton street
6 p.m. | Lighting of KinaraBlair Caldwell Library, 2401 welton street
6 p.m. | Slam NubaKwanzaa 80’s Hip Hop Theme PartyCrossroads theater, 2590 washington
ImANISaturday, 01.01.13
6 p.m. | Lighting of KinaraBlair Caldwell Library, 2401 welton street
7 p.m. Rest and contemplation
before affirmations, for the year to come
The Denver Kwanzaa Committee stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us and are honored to share the Kwanzaa tradition. All events are free and open to the public except where noted. For Kwanzaa updates and to volunteer, call 303.297.0823 or visit www.brotherjeff.com.
hAbARI gANI?For all of your
Kwanzaa informationVisit us on-line
www.brotherjeff.com
10 8 5 Points news
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
Sponsored byGreater Park Hill Sertoma Club
P.O. Box 7583Denver, Colorado 80207
150th Anniversary of Watch Night (Freedom’s Eve)
Many African American Christians observe watch night; however, some may not know the tradition’s origin.
The first Watch Night service began with the Moravians, “a small Christian denomination whose roots lie in what is the present day Czech Republic” in 1733. John wesley, the founder of the Method-ist Movement, picked up the tradition and incorporated it into the Methodist faith as a time to renew their covenant with God and to reflect upon their “state of grace” in light of the second coming of Christ. He held watch night services between 8:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on the Friday nearest the full moon and on new Year’s eve.
Many African American Christians link their celebration of the tradition to
December 31, 1862, “Freedom’s Eve.” After the Union Army was victorious
at the Battle of Antietam on september 22, 1862, Lincoln issued a preliminary proclamation that declared all enslaved Blacks to be “thenceforward, and forev-er free.” Many Blacks in the North and south, as well as both free and enslaved, anxiously waited for Abraham Lincoln’s emancipation Proclamation to become effective on January 1, 1863.
the sunday prior to that, “Day of Days,” Frederick Douglass expressed to his audience at Rochester’s spring street AMe Zion Church his elation at “the glo-rious morning of liberty about to dawn upon us.” On December 31, 1862, Watch night services took place throughout the United states.
with expectancy, enslaved Blacks, wanted to watch “the night turn into a new dawn.” As they watched, they re-flected on their adversities and sturggles, mourned the memory of their ancestors and loved ones who died enslaved, and passionately thanked and praised God for allowing them and their descendants to watch the night of captivity pass.
Nearly one hundred and fifty years after the signing of the emancipation Proclamation, many African American Christians continue the tradition of gath-ering in churches on new Year’s eve to celebrate watch night.
-Resource-theafricanamericanlectionary.org
A Musical ChristmasFriday December 14, 2012 | 6:30 - 8:30 PMWhittier Elementary School | 25th and Downing
Fun For the Whole FamilyPerforming Mary Louise Lee’s Band andAntioch Community Praise Team
Concert is Free | Refreshments AfterwardsAll Donations go to Whittier Music Department
5 POINTS NEWS Journalist Aliyah Fard (12)
Kwanzaa is about Family and Community
its holiday time and everyone is cel-ebrating! every culture celebrates in a dif-ferent way.
Jewish people celebrate Hanukah, and Christians celebrate Christmas and my family and i celebrate a different and unique holiday- it’s called Kwanzaa
(K-WAN-ZAA). Kwanzaa means first fruits and is from December 26 until Jan-uary 1. The first person to celebrate this holiday and the founder was Dr. Maulena Karenga.
Kwanzaa is a week long celebration. on each day we have a different princi-pal, they are Umoja, Kujichagulia, (or KujichALiYAH as i like to call it) Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba and finally Imani. each of these principals has a different meaning and for that day we reflect on what it really means.
My favorite part of Kwanzaa is the gifts or zawdai as we like to call it. each day a kid (like me) is given a special gift reflecting and based on their interests. For example, if you were interested in art, someone would give you an art supply kit. (DAD i am interested in an ipad, HINT HINT).
i think that Kwanzaa is mostly about honoring our ancestors and building com-munity as well as appreciating family.
Habari Gani (what’s your news ) and Happy Holidays
–Aliyah Fard
December 2012 8 11
Delta’s Host Annual HIV/AIDS Program
on world AiDs Day 2012, the Den-ver Alumnae Chapter of Delta sigma theta sorority, inc. partnered with the United Church of Montbello and brother jeff’s Community Health initiative, to present an engaging panel to raise aware-ness about HiV and AiDs.
Panelists shared heartfelt stories, dis-pelled myths, and enlightened audience members; encouraging everyone to take action in continuing the battle against HiV and AiDs. Rapid HiV testing was offered on site by Colorado AiDs Project as a reminder of the importance of having knowledge of one’s status.
HiV is transmitted when infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk enter another person’s body, most often during unprotected sex or through shared needles in injection drug use. Any-one who is infected with HiV can transmit it, whether or not they appear sick, have an AiDs diagnosis, or are taking effective treatment for their infection.
Members of the Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HiV) infection continues to rise in the African American community. Although the advancement of anti-viral medications has made HiV/AiDs a chronic manage-able disease, there remains no cure.
–Misti Aas
Saturday, December 15th11am-5pm
Clayton Early Learning Campus(MLK Blvd. and Colorado Blvd.)
www.ujamaaconnection.com
FuN | SHOPPING | COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS AT ITS BEST
SPONSORS: The Denver Foundation | Taylor Law Group | The Law Office of Cornell Johnson, P.C.
FRIENDS: Voices on Canvas | Denver Kwanzaa Committee | brother jeff’s Cultural CenterUrban Spectrum | Denver Weekly News | Cynthia Martin Designs
Visit our booth at the ujamaa Holiday Market.We’ll take your picture, customize your holiday greeting cards and help you send them on time.
www.sendoutcards.com/cynthiamartin | 720.364.1202
DistributersJonathan &
Cynthia Martin
Greater Metro Denver Ministerial Alliance hold December 3, press conference at CU Administration office
Ministers Charge Cu With Racism
the University of Colorado’s dis-missal of John embree after two years into rebuilding a failed football program is much larger than a losing season, ac-cording to the Greater Metro Denver Min-isterial Alliance. At a December 3 press conference, the Alliance charged the uni-versity with blatant racism.
“The firing of Coach Embree has some glaring comparative differences to his predecessor Coach Hawkins,” stated Alliance Vice President Pastor Paul Bur-leson. “Mike Bohn (CU athletic director) worked with Coach Hawkins, who had a losing season, but after two years his con-tract was renegotiated, and subsequently given better incentives to stay on as the coach of the CU football program.”
Bill McCartney, CU’s winningest football coach who led the Buffaloes to a national Championship in 1990, agrees with the ministers. in fact, McCartney was the first to openly speak of racism. “I honestly think (i got more time) because I’m Caucasian,” McCartney said. “I be-lieve Black men have less opportunity, less tenure, shorter time.”
CU representative Ken McConnel-logue responded to the charges of racism stating, “we certainly appreciate the per-spective that the alliance brought and the concerns they have… we hope that some of the real gains this university has made in diversity, and the real commitment it has is not overshadowed by this.”
the alliance correctly predicted the university would waste no time, or spare any expense in replacing embree. “there are glaring inequities that are falling off the ears of those who are in power to make decisions,” said Pastor Burleson. “the athletic director is going to unleash all the resources for a new coach in a way he did not do it for the old one. “
shortly following the Alliance press conference, Mike Bohn hired Mike Ma-cintyre, making him the highest paid football coach in CU history. Macintyre agreed to a five-year contract paying him $2 million per year, which is more than four times as much as the $450,000 he made coaching the san Jose state spar-tans.
–brother jeff
COMMuNITYHIV RESOuRCES
It Takes a Village1475 Lima St, Aurora, CO 80010
303.367.4747
Issue of Blood Outreach & Consulting Svcs.303.523.1500 | www.theissueofblood.com
Health Minisitry AssociatesDr. Byron Conners
19939 East Bellview Lane, Aurora, CO 80015303.680.4064 | [email protected]
brother jeff’s Community Health Initiative608 26th St, 2nd Floor, Denver, CO 80205
303.293.0024 | www.brotherjeff.com
Ford-Warren Branch Library to Reopen the Ford-warren Branch Library, lo-
cated at 2825 High st. at e. 28th Ave. will reopen to the public at noon on thursday, December 20, 2012. the Branch Library was closed for approximately six months for renovations funded by the 2007 voter-approved Better Denver Bond. A com-munity-wide celebration is planned for saturday, January 26, 2013 from 10 a.m. – noon.
Renovations to the Ford-warren Branch Library funded by the Better Denver Bond include: lighting upgrades; revitalized interiors with remodeled and updated service desks, new paint, carpet and furniture throughout; furniture and seating for the public access computers; updated public rest rooms with new low flow fixtures; refreshed children’s area; and repairs to the windows and skylights.
the Branch also will reopen with new computers and peripherals, including seven new PCs (making the total num-ber of PCs 22), 16 new laptops, 16 new webcams, 15 new headphone sets, and a new projector and printer for public use. these technology enhancements were funded by stimulus dollars granted to the Library through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s (ARRA) state-wide Broadband technology opportunity Program (BtoP).
in addition to the much-needed reno-vations, the Branch will reopen with 16 more hours, a total of 48 hours per week. the additional hours are a result of bal-lot measure 2A which will allow Denver Public Library to increase their public hours by approximately 40%.
WORKSHOP EXPLORES ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
the Center on Domestic Violence at the University of Colorado Denver is hosting nationally acclaimed black femi-nist, scholar and anti-violence activist Beth Richie for a full day workshop on Monday, January 8.
the title of the workshop is Arrested Justice: How Race/ethnicity and Class Complicate the experience of Violence Against women. Ms. Richie has spent over 30 years in social justice activism focused on the intersection of violence, poverty, incarceration and resistance movements for change. Currently she is the director of the institute for Research on Race and Public Policy at the Univer-sity of illinois at Chicago.
this workshop will explore the ways that black and other women of color ex-
perience disproportionately negative con-sequences of violence because of their social status, problematic public policy, and the ways that anti-violence work has been organized. the exciting workshop starts at 8:30AM and lasts until 3pm. it will be held at the Lawrence street Cen-ter, 1380 Lawrence st, Denver on the second floor Terrace Room. The event is expected to attract human service profes-sionals, advocates and others. the cost is $75 or $35 for students and includes lunch. Participants are highly encouraged to reserve their spot at this event by going to www.domesticviolence.ucdenver.edu and clicking on the events tab. Questions can be sent to [email protected] or call-ing the Center on Domestic Violence at 303-315-2489.
12 8 5 Points news
ethnic College Counseling Center (eCCC) presents its 2012-2013 College Preparatory Program for 6 thru 12 grad-ers. sessions are held for all interested students on the 1 and 3 saturday of each month from 9 am to 12 pm at Park Hill United Methodist Church located at 5209 Montview Boulevard in room 205. this is eCCC’s 29th year preparing middle school and high school students for edu-cation beyond high school.
the eCCC Historical Black Colleges and Universities College Fair will take place at east High school on March 16, 2013.
in addition, there will be a college tour to Alabama and Florida, along with Underground Railroad sites, in 2014.
For more information, visit www.ethnicCollegeCounselingCenter.org or call 303-751-9731; fax 303-751-0024.
Black College Fair : Education Beyond H.S.
Denver Center for 21 Century Learn-ing (DC-21) is offering assistance to indi-viduals under the age of 21 who have not received a high school diploma, through their free GeD classes.
General educational Development (GED) tests are a group of five subject tests which when passed, certify that the individual has high-school level academic skills, providing a Graduate equivalency Degree.
DC-21 is a Denver Public school
Multiple Pathway Center for grades 6 thru 12, offering an accelerated, engaging and rigorous education for students who require a highly supportive educational environment to successfully prepare them for post-secondary opportunities, focus-ing primarily on helping underserved and hard-to-serve students in northeast Den-ver.
For more info or to enroll in the GeD class, call DC-21 at 720-424-2980.
Free GED Classes in the Community
Jones Initiated into Phi Beta KappaMatthew s. Jones was among 71 stu-
dents that were initiated into the Phi Beta Kappa society, at the University of Colo-rado Boulder. Matthew Jones will gradu-ate with his Bachelor Degree in Psychol-ogy in May of 2013 and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Psychology.
He is a graduate of Grandview High school, where he graduated with honors. His parents are s.L. and Frances e. wool-ery-Jones of Centennial, Co.
the Phi Beta Kappa society is an academic honor society in the United states. it aims to promote and advocate excellence in the liberal arts and sciences, and induct the most outstanding students of arts and sciences at American colleges
and universities. Founded at the College of william
and Mary on December 5, 1776, as the first collegiate Greek-letter fraternity, it is also the oldest honor society for the lib-eral arts and sciences. since inception, 17 U.s. Presidents, 37 U.s. supreme Court Justices, and 136 nobel Laureates have been Inducted members. The first known African-American was inducted in 1877. According to the society, “only about 10 percent of the nation’s institu-tions of higher learning have Phi Beta Kappa chapters,” and of the institutions with chapters, only about 10 percent of the arts and sciences graduates are elected to Phi Beta Kappa membership.
Success in Education, And in Life
Watch-Care Academy, a non-profit private K-8 school, has been one of the most academically successful schools in Colorado for over 20 years. they teach the skills of life-long learning and pro-duce successful and responsible citizens.
Watch-Care Academy students at Manuel High
watch-Care Academy believes all children are exceptional when given the opportunity to learn and demonstrate their abilities.
“i love my job. Getting my kids to where they were born to be has always been easy,” says Executive Director, Janie Perry, “they are born with curiosity and intelligence–we just bring that out.”
Kaeyla is one of many outstanding watch-Care Academy students. At three years old she was able to stand and recite all the presidents from George washing-ton to Barack obama.
Visit watch-Care Academy and see why these students are graduating at the top of their classing and going on to at-tend the most prestigeous colleges in the country.
For more information contact watch-Care Academy at 303.320.4346.
hElP bRINg A hEAlThY NEW mEAl SERVIcE To ThE cASA commUNITY!You’re invited to a Fresh Takes KitchenFocus Group & Taste Test EventFresh Takes Kitchen will be hosting a focus group and taste test event with Cole Arts & Science Academy families, staff, and community members interested in sampling their nutritious, tasty meals and learning about their new affordable, fresh prepared meal service that is launching in Denver this winter.
Participants will be asked to provide their feedback on the meals and service, and share ideas on how to best launch the service within the CASA and surrounding community in early 2013. Adults and kids welcome – space is limited to the first 30 who RSVP.
Thursday, Dec 13th | 4:30 – 5:30pm | CASA Cafeteria RSVP: with Sheree Brown @ [email protected] or 720.255.7692
Cole Arts & Science Academy3240 Humboldt StDenver, CO 80205
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December 2012 8 13
5 Points News Photo GalleryBlack American West Museum Annual Gala Epworth Foundation Daddy Bruce Thanksgiving
Bennie L. Williams, Artistic Director of The Spirituals Project Community Choir
Happy 80th Birthday Bennie Williams
spirituals uplift in times of crisis, heal, comfort, inspire, and instill hopes and dreams; which in turn can transform indi-viduals, communities, and whole societies.
the spirituals Project, under the ex-ecutive direction of Amani Ali, presented Changed My name: A spirituals Cantata, at the University of Denver’s newman Center for the Performing Arts. the near-ly 100 member multi-ethnic Community Choir honored the legacy of Harriet tub-man and sojourner truth, with narration selected from speeches by these freedom fighters, and supported by arrangements of a variety of spirituals.
Artistic Director Bennie L. williams celebrated her 80th birthday that same evening. the choir and audience sur-prised williams with a rendition of Happy Birthday when she came on stage.
“this performance stands in tribute to Harriet tubman, sojourner truth, and the countless brave women and men who toiled in the crucible of chattel slavery, but who persistently rejected the identity of ‘slave.’ their courage, determination, and love all stand as encouragement to us all as we continue our work in building the kind of world that Harriet and sojourner always believed was possible,” stated Founder Dr.
Arthur C. Jones, Clinical Professor and Associate Dean at the women’s College at the University of Denver.
Beginning in early 1991, Jones began to conduct a series of concerts, lectures and workshop programs on the songs created and first sung by enslaved African Ameri-cans in the 18th and 19th centuries. in-corporated as an educational organization in 1998, the spirituals Project is a broad-based initiative to explore the many, varied dimensions of African American spirituals as art form, tradition and tool; and to invite all people to experience the joy and power of this dynamic music and gift from Afri-can Americans to the world.
“Being a part of the spirituals Project feels like i am inheriting a fortune of cul-tural wealth that my ancestors left behind,” said choir member theo wilson.
–Misti Aas
“brother jeffI WANT ThAT PhoTo!”
Want an image you see in the5 POINTS NEWS?
Email [email protected] and order high resolution, color photos.
We have countless photos shot at special and community events.
~ captured moments ~The perfect gift for the holidays
The Spirituals ProjectUniversity of Denver
Ruffatto Hall 2421999 E. Evans Ave.,Denver, CO 80208
303.871.7993www.spiritualsproject.org
14 8 5 Points news
COLORADO HAS MADE HISTORY!For the first time
5 African Americans have been elected to theColorado House of Representatives.
CONGRATuLATIONS
Angela Williams - DenverJohn Buckner - AuroraJovan Melton - AuroraRhonda Fields - Aurora
Tony Exum - Colorado Springs
From, Wellington & Wilma Webband
Webb Group International
Wellington Webb, Denver’s first black mayor, helped recruit
Democrats to run for the legislature, donated money and walked
precincts this summer and fall. But his biggest role came in
2011 when he was part of a commission that redrew legislative
boundaries, making some seats more minority and Democratic
friendly. “i was honored to serve on the commission that helped
make history for our community”, said Webb.
Wellington Webb In Defense of Susan Rice
As a former delegate to the United nations, i have been especially dismayed by the personal attacks of some Republi-can critics against Un Ambassador susan Rice and her comments shortly after the sept. 11 Benghazi attack.
I saw firsthand in 2009 how Rice and her staff work with information coming through washington in the most thorough and thoughtful way. As President obama has strongly defended, Rice’s comments were based on intelligence that she had re-ceived and what the administration knew at the time.
Another tragedy on top of the lives lost in Benghazi is now the choreographed political maneuver on Ambassador Rice. the vitriolic attacks are a foul attempt to limit Rice’s options in the future and possi-bly block her confirmation as the next Sec-retary of state. it would be a shame if the narrowed political interests of a few limit one of America’s brightest intellectual dip-lomats.
there was no intention to hide in-formation about the attack and President obama acknowledged the following day
that it was terrorism. And let us not forget Rice’s Republican appointed predecessor who help mislead Americans by support-ing faulty reports of weapons of mass de-struction in iraqi. some of the same crit-ics – including the media – who are now beating the drum against Rice are the same ones who reported and promoted the un-founded intelligence in iraqi.
It can be easy to start pointing fingers after a tragedy. we in Colorado understand the changing landscape when violence hits in our backyard. the initial reports from the recent Aurora theater massacre and the Columbine High school shootings includ-ed incorrect information. Officials were relying on the most up-to-date reports to inform the public and mistakes were made.
As a community, we want to know the full picture but until the smoke cleared we gave our officials the benefit of the doubt. Congress also has the full right to investi-gate what happened and if mistakes were made people should be accountable.
But to exploit that investigation on Rice is wrong. Her comments shortly af-ter the Benghazi attack were based on CiA intelligence and talking points. if a few Republican critics are now attempting to “shoot the messenger,” it will take more than one bullet politically aimed at Rice.
As a country, we just went through one of the most divisive presidential elec-tions in recent history. We face a fiscal cliff that will affect all of us. the attacks on one woman should not only be denounced with loud voices but quickly dismissed as a cowardly act by a few.
Wellington Webb was appointed as a United Nations delegate in 2009. He served as Denver’s mayor from 1991-2003 and currently is the president of Webb Group International, a consulting firm.
UN Ambassador, Susan Rice
Sweet Recieves Lifetime Achievement AwardDr. Claudette sweet, well known for
her countless hours of community ser-vice, will receive the brother jeff Lifetime Acheivement Award at the 30th commem-oration of the Hiawatha Davis senior Lun-cheon. the festive event, established by Davis in 1982, honors and celebrates the lives of seniors in northeast Denver. Davis was best known as the Denver City Coun-cilperson for District 8 from 1983 until 1999, when Mayor wellington webb ap-pointed him the executive Director of the Agency for Human Rights and Commu-nity Relations. Davis, a constant presence in the community, was a passionate voice for those with the least power and spent his life advocating for human rights.
Dr. Claudette Sweet to receive brother jeff’s Lifetime Achievement Award
speaker-designate Mark Ferrandino appointed Rep. Angela williams (D-Den-ver) today as chairwoman of the House Business, Labor & economic & work-force Development Committee.
Rep.-elect tracy Kraft-tharp (D-Arvada) will be Rep. williams’ deputy on the committee, which oversees proposed
Rep. Angela Williams
Williams Chairs House Business Committeechanges to business regulations and labor law, and will be the committee of refer-ence for major components of the House Democrats’ 2013 legislative package to boost the state’s economy and put more Coloradans back to work.
“we will have the opportunity to work on jobs and address economic issues for Colorado,” Rep. Williams said. “I am also pleased to reinsert the word ‘Labor’ into the committee’s name.”
Rep. williams is beginning her sec-ond term in the state House of Repre-sentatives and remains an active busi-nesswoman; aside from her legislative activities she owns the Angela williams Agency, an insurance and consulting firm.
she was recently awarded a cer-tificate of completion for the Senior Ex-ecutives in state and Local Government program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy school of Government, and has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from northeastern state University in tahlequah, okla.
30th AnnualHiawatha Davis Jr. Senior Luncheon
Thursday, December 20, 2012 | 11 am - 1 pm3203 Quebec St. Denver, CO
DOUBLETREE HOTEL
Please join Councilman Albus Brooks and Staff,brother jeff’s Cultural Center and Engage 8 as we
celebrate the lives of our seniors in Northeast Denver
PLEASE RSVP by Friday, December 14, 2012To RSVP, call 720.337.8888 or email [email protected]
December 2012 8 15
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Celebrating the Life of Marva Coleman
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Linda Sherbert and NCNW President Elizabeth Lee present Owetta McNeil Salute to Black Women Award The Point 2003 Ribbon Cutting CeremonyL-R: Elbra Wedgeworth, Wellington Web, Marva Coleman and Ray Stranske,
Annual Founder’s Day Harambee Brunch
on December 1, the 21st annual Founders Harambee Brunch: Recogniz-ing the Past, Harnessing the Present, and Envisioning the Future was held at the Doubletree Hotel, for the national Council of negro women (nCnw). the mission of nCnw is to lead, develop, and advocate for women of African descent and other minorities as they support their families and commu-nities. nCnw works to ensure access to and full participation in the socio-
economic and political systems which impact the quality of life for all people.
the nCnw is now a council of 39 affiliated national African- Ameri-can women’s organizations with more than 240 sections, and connects nearly 4 million women worldwide.
During the event awards were given to Ms. owetta Mcneil, Miss Aa-liyah Carter, Dr. Barbara shannon Ban-ister, and Miss Alyse Harris.
– Camille Smith
Seasons Greetings from our family to yours
Come in today and askabout our holiday specials
Marva Fay Maria Coleman, 1939-2012, born in Kingston, Jamaica, passed away on thursday, December 6.
Coleman joined the Five Points Business As-sociation in 1996, and became executive di-rector in 1997. in 2003, she was appointed by Mayor John Hicken-looper as a key player and board member to the Denver Commission on Homelessness. Coleman worked at norwest Bank, United Bank of Denver, and wells Fargo during her banking career.
“i met Marva when i was president of the Five Points Business Association board and she was the executive direc-tor,” shared Bee Harris, Publisher of the Denver Urban spectrum. “she was a
beautiful person and woman, inside and out. Marva was a hard worker and a mov-er and shaker in this community. she will
be greatly missed.”Coleman is survived
by two daughters, Marcia Coleman-scott (Robert) of Aurora, and Jacqueline Coleman of washington DC; three grandsons, shea, Chad, and Levi scott; her mother, Jose-phine Amanda Reid; and one sister, Pauline Reid-wilkerson (Michael).
Coleman’s home go-ing celebration will be Friday, December 14, 2
p.m., at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 13120 e Kentucky Avenue in Aurora.
Ballard Family Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements. For more information, call 303.963.5779.
6601 E. Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80220
303.996.0869www.pipkinbraswell.com
Seasons Greetings
Alvin Braswell, sr. J. Mark Pipkin
Losing a loved one is never easy. When people experience loss, they need a strong support network to provide comfort and offer encouragement.
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.
Please feel free to call us any time of the day, any day of the week, for immediate assistance. Or, visit our facility in person at your convenience.