Happenings in and around Historic 5 Points and Northeast DenverJune 2012

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155 Points newsonLine nowat www.5Pointsnews.com

Memorial Weekend Double Murder

Greg Goodlow was a crowd pleaser as his group headlined the Annual Juneteenth Festival on welton street. the legendary Charles Burell thrilled seniors at the reemerging Juneteenth senior Luncheon.

Born in 1920, he was the first Black symphony performer in the country. Goodlow and Burell prove music is timeless.

Peoples PresbyterianReAChinG out to the Community thRouGh Good Food

5 POINTS News is “your” community paper, and we count on our readers to inform us about news, events, and story ideas. We thank reader Orville Springs for informing us about the wonderful free weekly lunch program at Peoples Presbyterian Church, 2780 York Street. Many organizations provide food, however, it is rare to find one that serves food. Every Monday from 12-3pm everyone is welcomed, seated, and served good home cooking. “Welcome, come on in and take a seat,” is the warm greeting. “We will be having homemade meatloaf today with all the trimmings.”

Parishioner Shelby Nash has been running the program for the past 10 years, and although there is a small donation box, in reality most everything is paid for by donations made by parishioners. Shelby manages a fine tuned operation, and he has lots of experience. A military man, in 1959 he was the Lowry Airforce Base athletic director. Boxing champion Sonny Liston even trained at his gym. In 2011 Peoples Presbyterian provided 6286 meals, and based on the economy, this year they are projected to serve even more. More than food, people come in to enjoy the fellowship. Everyone leaves full: Mind, body, and spirit.

–brother jeff

Top: L-R - Elsie Simpson serves Richard Simpson, and Shelby Nash says hello. Bottom: A collection of volunteers and guests.

The community experienced more trauma, as Summer kicks off with a double murder near the corner of Bruce Randolph and York Street. the area is no stranger to shooting, and violence. Police have arrested two young men in connection with the murders. two other men were injured. The investigation continues, and a motive for the senseless killings is unknown. Story and photos on page 13.

5 Points newsProud Recipient of thedr. syl morgan smith

Excellence in Media Award

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5 Points news Monthly Publication - June 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 Fard

5 Points News is a publication of brotherjeff.com

2836 Welton StreetDenver, CO 80205

303.297.08235pointsnews@brotherjeff.com

Nothing beats a graduation ceremony. And as much as I love seeing the proud graduates in caps and gowns, strolling to brass bands playing Pomp and Circum-stance, nothing beats joining families gathered to celebrate. “Please be respectful of the program, and hold your applause until all names have been called.” Yea right. Whatever. That has got to be the most ignored instruction ever given. Have you seen what happens when shaniqua’s name is called? “Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! that’s my baby! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Whuuuu! Whuuuu! Whuuuu! Whuuuuu!” The abrupt violation of that ridiculous instruction continues until someone finally stops grandma from yelling, and running up and down the stairs. I love it!

Families at graduations are so entertaining; I even buy popcorn. Some think I’m crazy, because I’m always yelling and cheering for every name called. Just like Shaniqua’s grandma, some say I’m embarrassing. Heck, we always hear about low test scores, and high drop out rates, so i say, “when a graduation happens, it’s time to let go!” Don’t ever let anyone trick you into sitting with your legs folded, and nose all up in the air. Celebrate; have fun!

Oh yea, that’s my daughter, Arianna who graduated from CU Boulder’s Leed School of Business this year, and the photos on page 11 are graduates from our com-munity from preschool to college. Yes, I cut up when graduate names were called. So excuse me for violating the “be quite” rule. I’m hyped, and the future looks bright!

–brother jeff

Congratulations Graduates: The Future Looks Bright

Remembering Vada Louise Swanson: June 18, 1924 – May 10, 2012

CU Graduate Arianna along with her proud father brother jeff

L-R: Daughters Dianne Reeves and Sharon Hill-Washington

I received some very disturbing news this evening that I wanted to share with the family of gospel music and ministry lovers, especially in Colorado. Denver’s one and only gospel radio station - KLDC 1220AM, is making BIG changes. Mr. Crawford himself fired Leon Owens this evening, releasing him of his Program Director duties and gave all other employees of KLDC a 30-day notice. True enough Mr. Crawford owns the station and can do what he will, but this community has supported KLDC, KLT, etc., for the last 14 years because of dedicated employees such as Leon Owens. Our only Black gospel community radio is changing.

This is not good for the Denver Community. Leon Owens developed the programming for KLDC 1220AM gospel community and has been a loyal em-ployee for the past 14 years. He is a man of God, with a family, who has been discriminated against continuously.

Is Denver’s only gospel station closing? The only voice of God’s music and ministry is changing into…what?

we have a duty to continue to promote, perpetuate and preserve our gospel music and ministries. We need a voice to communicate via radio from our com-munity. We must support Leon Owens for fair treatment and equal rights.

Call Mr. Crawford or KLDC 1220AM and make your inquiry. Voice your support for Leon Owens and acknowledge the need of gospel music and ministry in this community. Leon Owens worked hard for this community and we need you now. PRAy!

Call today and flood the lines with inquiry: 303.433.5500–CEC Gospel Music Ministry

5 POINTS News spoke with Jana Bonds at KLDC 1220AM in reference to the above. According to Bonds, Mr. Owens is no longer with the station; however, KLDC is committed to continue providing Gospel programming to the Denver community. Additionally, “ No 30-day notice has been given to KLDC employees,” according to Bonds.

Last Gospel Station Closed?

KLDC Responds

Letters to the Editor

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

Vada Louise Burrell Swanson was born June 18, 1924 in Toledo, Ohio to Rueben and Denverado Burrell. She was the beloved wife of the late, William A Swanson. She went to be with the Lord on May 10, 2012 after a long battle with cancer.

Vada planted numerous seeds in the denver community. From 1991 until 1998, she and her sister mary Beth owned and operated the African American gift and bookstore, House of Osiris, located in Five Points. Vada also served in several ministries at shorter Community Ame Church.

she was a great storyteller and all of her stories had a significant impact on peoples lives. Her joyful and kind spirit influenced anyone who had the good for-tune to meet her.

Vada will be sincerely missed by her family, friends and community.

–See photos on page 13

Congresswoman Maxine Waters: Coming to Denver

House district 7 Democrats Fifth An-nual Unity Denver with keynote speaker Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and Mistress of Ceremonies State Rep. An-gela Williams will be held Saturday, June 23, 2012 at the Renaissance Denver, 3801 Quebec Street. There will be a VIP Re-ception 6pm ($65.00 includes dinner), followed by the dinner program ($45.00)

7:30pm. You can purchase a table of ten for $600.00. There will be a cash bar, and for more information visit www.denver-democrats.net or call 303.830.8242

Congresswoman Maxine Waters is considered by many to be one of the most powerful women in American politics to-day. She has gained a reputation as a fear-less and outspoken advocate for women, children, people of color and the poor. Elected in November 2010 to her eleventh term in the House of Representatives with almost 80 percent of the vote in the 35th District of California, Congresswoman Waters represents a large part of South Central Los Angeles, the communities of westchester and Playa del Rey, and the diverse cities of Gardena, Hawthorne, inglewood and Lawndale.

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Five Points Photograph Exhibit, which will hang at the Blair Caldwell African American Research Library from June 15 through June 30, 2012.

The community is invited to join brother jeff for the Cornerstones of Five Points reception on Friday, June 15th from 6:00 p.m - 8:30 pm. Meet many of the Five Point’s Cornerstones in person, including jazz legend Pur-nell Steen and Le Jazz Machine. Enjoy an evening of entertainment and food as we kick-off Juneteenth celebrations with this timely display.

For additional information or to RSVP, call 303.297.0823.

Featuring the Joe Bonner/Tom Tilton Quartet

Swing by brother jeff’s Cultural Center - 2838 Welton StreetSaturday June 16, 8pm-Midnight

Don’t miss this dynamic evening of Live entertainment. Free and open to the public. All ages welcome.

www.brotherjeff.com

Get Ready for Juneteenth

GET READY FOR SUMMER FUN

FREE DAYSDenver Art MuseumSaturday, July 7thSaturday, August 4th

Denver Museum of Nature and ScienceSunday, June 17Monday, July 2Sunday, August 12Monday, August 20

Denver Botanic Gardens(York Street)July 26August 28

Denver Botanic Gardens(Chatfield)July 6August 3

Denver Children’s MuseumTuesday, July 3rd | 4 – 8 PMTuesday, August 7th | 4 – 8 PM

Denver Museum of Miniatures,Dolls and ToysSunday, July 1stSunday, August 5th

ofFIVEPOINTSCO

RNERSTONES

the photography of brother jeff

FREE ACTIVITIESFirst Friday Art Walks | July 6, August 3, September 7www.artdistrictonsantafe.comDiscover Denver’s thriving creative community during a First Friday celebration, held every first Friday of the month.

Denver PrideFest | June 16-17www.denverpridefest.orgOne of the ten biggest PrideFests in the U.S., this free weekend event in Civic Center Park features a parade, live music, food, and dance, all celebrating the local gay and lesbian community.

Cherry Blossom Festival | June 23-24www.tsdbt.org/cherryblossom A celebration of Japanese-American culture, food, music and dance, Downtown Denver’s Cherry Blossom Festival offers a taste of the Far East in the Mile High City.

Cherry Creek Arts FestivalJuly 6-8http://www.cherryarts.org/ Over Fourth of July Weekend, 350,000 visitors enjoy the visual, culinary and performing arts and interactive activities for the whole family. Colorado Black Arts FestivalJuly 14-15http://www.colbaf.org Boasting three stages filled with jazz, rhythm and blues, gospel, reggae, and hip hop, this free festival in Denver City Park celebrates African American heritage with a parade, special exhibits, a market-place, children’s arts programming, and socio-civic organizations. Colorado Dragon Boat FestivalJuly 28-29http://www.cdbf.org/ Set sail for summer fun at Sloan’s Lake Park, where vibrantly decorated dragon boats race in an exciting pan-Asian sport. This weekend-long event also features music, cultural exhibits, and delicious Asian cuisine.

Agape Christian Church Summer Food Service Program

The Agape Christian Church is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or dis-ability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided at the site(s) and time as follows: Agape Christion Church, 2501 California Stret, Denverm CO from 11:30 - 1:30, Monday through Thursday, starting June 1, 2012 and ending August 7, 2012.

Keeping it GreenR&B’s Mo Betta Green Marketplace 2505 Welton Street - RTD Park-N-Ride9am-2pm | June 16, July 7, July 21, August 4, August 18, September 1, September 15, October 6, October 20

2011 Juneteenth Festival Attendees

June 10, 2012 - Los Bohemios

June 17, 2012 - Salsa Con Jazz

June 24, 2012 - Tribute to Charlie Burrell Featuring Purnell Steen and Le Jazz Machine

July 1, 2012 - Lionel Young

July 8, 2012 - Jakarta

July 15, 2012 - Jeff Jenkins

July 22, 2012 - Carmen Sandim

July 29, 2012 - Eric Gunnison’s Wake Up Call

August 5, 2012 - Chris Daniels and the Kings

All concerts are from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Bandstand/Pavilion in Denver’s City Park, rain or shine.

For additional information, visit www.cityparkjazz.org/schedule.html

2012 Schedule:

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slav-ery in the United States. In Denver, this 2012 historical cultural event will feature five major components: Arts & Culture, Youth & Education Enrichment, Main Stage & Fea-ture Performance, Food & Beverages, and Sunday Church Service & Gospel Concert.

Of course, no festival is complete without community engagement. Don’t miss this year’s Juneteenth Music Festival, Saturday, June 16th and Sunday, June 17th, from 11:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. in Historical Five Points. For more details call 720.276.3693.

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From Hear... We Grow:Juneteenth Pre-Father’s Day Jazz Jam Session

June 2012 8 5

Two Girls Dance Ministry Colorado and California Sisterhood Reunion

Ministerial Alliance Letter of Support for Vicki Dillard

Tiffany Curry expresses her creative talent through Praise Dance

Clockwise from Top: Dr Agnes Martin, Dr. Claudette Sweet, Mrs. Annalee Williams and Mrs. Mabel Griffin

Welcome to the wonderful world of praise dance, through the eyes of Tiffany Curry.

Tiffany is a 21 year old with Downs syndrome who is an overcomer. she has always loved dancing and has danced for hours in her bedroom over the years. Then she met Playwright, Minister Kevin Rawlins, who gave her the encourage-ment that she too could praise the Lord though her dance.

When Tiffany was born the doctors

told her mother, Minister V. Lynne Curry, “Don’t expect her to smile or rollover in her crib.” To which her mother replied, “Bring my baby to me and leave her with me until we leave this hospital.” Tiffany’s birth records state “Mother will not ac-cept diagnosis due to religious beliefs.”

“shout my name to the angels. sing my song to the skies. Anoint my ears with wisdom. Let beauty fill my eyes.” Walter dean myers.

Summertime, this is the season for re-unions and gathering of families, friends and various organizations. Speaking of organizations, the West Coast Sister-hood of Ministers and Minister’s Wives (MWMW) Reunion of Inglewood Cali-fornia and vicinity, hosted its first reunion at the Doubletree Hotel in Culver City, CA to connect women who share some common threads, journeys and visions.

The Colorado Sisterhood of the mwmw was also invited to participate in this historical event. The agenda for the event had 3 days of activities. Tours, workshops, and receptions were all set in place for the MWMW to learn and fel-lowship. on the last day, the event con-cluded with the “Hallelujah Hat-ti-tude Luncheon.” Being that it was the culmi-nating event, this was the time for every-one to relax, laugh and reflect on what was provided for the weekend. There was a fashion show, vendors, entertain-ment, and some awards given throughout the intervals of the luncheon.

The highlight of the event was a partnership that took place between the mwmw sisterhood and the “mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum” in Culver City, CA. This opened a new horizon for other states within the MWMW organiza-tion to model the concept of collaboration with libraries state-wide to establish places to preserve the archives and memorabilia throughout the US. The exhibits within the libraries will help to dispel the myth that the MWMW are merely fashion plates in church and our society. Many of the women are educators, entrepreneurs, so-cial workers, and artists. The list could go on about the many “hats” these individuals

wear outside of being a pastor’s wife.The connection to the Library and

Museum made it possible for two of our MWMW’s to be honored in such a way to solidify their life’s work for generations to come. these two women are mrs. Ber-nandine Murry, the former first lady of Frist Ame Church in Los Angeles, CA, and “Living Legend” mrs. nettie J. ste-venson of Zion Hill Baptist Church, who received the “Minister’s Widow of the year” award.

during my stay, i had the opportunity to be reunited with a few former Denveri-tes who currently reside in Los Angeles California, including my hosts, Dr. Ag-nes L. martin and dr. Paul m. martin (the President of the American Baptists Seminary of the West). I would like to ac-knowledge Dr. Agnes for her insightful-ness regarding the vision of the Reunion. she proved that praying diligently can really manifest a positive outcome for a momentous occasion.

In a formal statement, Dr. Agnes expressed and thanked everyone for at-tending and supporting the First mwmw sisterhood Reunion. the overall theme for the gathering, “Keeping Our Legacy Alive” was reiterated throughout to honor sisters who provided the foundation for MWMW organizations of today.

Special thanks to those Denverites who made my stay memorable: Dr. Ag-nes and dr. Paul martin, Pastor damien and Juanita mays, mrs. Annie Lee wil-liams and Mrs. Mabel Griffin.

–Dr. Claudette Sweet andTyriq Swingler

The case of Vicki Dillard (No. 10cr170) has been brought to the attention of the Greater Metro Denver Ministerial Alliance. upon reviewing documents, ev-idence, and the judicial process, we have real concerns that ms. dillard’s rights to due process in this case, was grossly de-nied. The Sixth amendment of the Consti-tution guarantees and the supreme Court has ruled that “in a capital case, where the defendant is unable to employ coun-sel, and is incapable adequately of mak-ing his/her own defense because of igno-rance, feeble mindedness, illiteracy, or the like, it is the duty of the court, wheth-er requested or not, to assign counsel for him.” In Johnson v. Zerbst, 304 U.S. 458 (1938), the Supreme Court ruled that in all federal cases, counsel would have to be appointed for defendants who were too poor to hire their own.

Certainly, in this case the courts ful-filled that obligation to Ms. Dillard, but at its most basic level. It appears to us that an attorney was assigned, but in no way did that attorney “represent” the best interests of Ms. Dillard. We challenge the competency of Ms. Dillard’s coun-sel in light of the specific federal charges brought against her. We challenge his as-signment by the court as an adequate rep-resentative for Ms. Dillard. It appears that her counsel actually served the purposes of the court and the prosecution to a much greater degree than his own client.

In fact, it appears from the docu-ments and the evidence presented that the incompetency of her counsel con-tributed to her conviction. What is even more alarming to us is the appearance of collaboration between the court and Ms. dillard’s counsel. Permitting unsigned documents to be presented as evidence, without Ms. Dillard’s knowledge or con-sent, is a blatant violation of her right to due process, and the court permitted it is

most disturbing.we challenge the court to review

and revisit this case and its verdict. we believe that this case was and is without merit. It is almost embarrassing that Vicki Dillard would be a target of the U.S. gov-ernment. one wonders “how” and “why”, with the significant fraud that took place in this industry, Ms. Dillard became a tar-get. were “industry standards” violated in such a way that ms. dillard’s actions were unique and outside of the scope of standard operating procedures? we sim-ply cannot see or understand the rationale for the government coming after this per-son.

We, the members of the Greater Met-ro Denver Ministerial Alliance would ask that you set aside this verdict and cease no further action against Ms. Dillard. Ob-viously, we do not expect Ms. Dillard, who is and has been a very solid citizen of this community with strong ties in the church, to serve a single day of jail time. God forbid that this would be done to her! We would ask that Ms. Dillard’s name and record be restored to good standing in this community. she deserves that given the travesty of her recent trial.

we will continue to stand with ms. Dillard in her quest for justice. The cir-cumstances surrounding this case are quite disturbing and we believe worthy of the attention of the larger community. No one should ever be represented in a court of law, in the United States of America, the way ms. dillard was. it is our sincere hope and prayer that, by the grace of God, you will rectify this wrong.

Respectfully yours,Pastor Paul BurlesonV. P. Of Community Affairs, Greater

metro denver ministerial Alliance

Councilman Albus Brooks’ office has moved to 3815 Steele Street, locat-ed in the new denver human services Building.

“We will deeply miss being on Welton St. We have built lasting rela-tionships, and understand what it meant for our constituents for us to be on the corridor,” said Council Aide Brande’

Micheau. “Please know we will not ne-glect or ignore Welton, and will be back in Five Points before you know it. Re-member, our doors are always open!”

Councilman Albus Brooks’ contact information remains:

Office: 720-337-8888Fax: 720-337-8883

Dial 311 for City Services

Welton Street Says Good-bye to Councilman Albus Brooks’ Office

6 8 5 Points news

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

A New Treasure on Welton St.

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

Whatcha need? A bike, bookshelves, Star Wars toys, dinner plates? Thrifty Treasures at 2846 Welton Street has it.

Anita Burroughs opened her store and stepped into her dream. Often cars driving by suddenly pull over to see what she has strategically placed outside. to keep her placed stocked, Anita says that she tries to get to auctions and even ac-cepts donations.

On Five Points2937 Welton St., Denver, CO 80205

303.539.6919www.APieceOfMine5pts.com

hours of operationMon: By Appt. Only

tues-Fri: 10:00 am - 6:00 pmsat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

sun: Closed

Visit, relax, browse and leave with...

A Piece of MineA Chic Ladies Boutique | New & Near New Clothing

Anita West-Ware and Cynthia Quinnonez Yeldell, Co-Proprietors

Anita Burroughs, Owner, Thrifty Treasure

Anita tells the story of working two jobs to make a life. An opportunity presented itself while she was having a conversation with a friend whose father owned the building. The space happened to be available. Anita knew that this was her chance to become a business owner.

She loves the neighborhood and the changes, and recalls “when i was in high school you could not come down after a certain time... now,” she says. “i don’t want to leave.”

Anita believes thrifts are great to any neighborhood. “They bring diver-sity, because everybody loves a deal.” When asked what customers say about her space, she said, “wow!” each day she does a little better and gets a few more regular customers.

–Kenneth Drew

June 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

(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

Wire Less expressNew & UsedPhones

WeFlash!

Se HablaespañolREPAIR

Real Service • Real Prices • Real People

303.295.1788wirelessexpressrobert@yahoo.com

610 26th St.denver, Co 80205

Proprietor and Master Frame Maker Gregory Crichlow has managed to do what most people only dream about. He combined his two passions, bicycles and chocolate, into one business. The Choco-late Spoke Bike Shop is Five Points’ ped-dling oasis for novice and professional bike riders, that also sells chocolate to those with a discriminating palate. the bike shop offers repairs, tune-ups, and

custom bike frames that are all manufac-tured on-site. Gregory says, “As a resi-dent I felt the need to be part of the neigh-borhood reinvestment that is happening in the Five Points, and 2805 downing st, is a perfect location. I want everyone who enters the Chocolate Spoke to feel wel-come.” And what’s more welcoming than chocolate?

–Terrence Hughes

There is a New Passion in 5 Points

Gregory Crichlow, Owner, Chocolate Spoke Bike Shop

Email 5 POINTS NEWSat 5pointsnews@brotherjeff.com

to advertise or submit a story.

8 8 5 Points news

Colorado Black Health Collaborative Presents

“Unity in The Community” Health ForumWe all remember “Unity in the com-

munity”, the phrase coined by Dr. Dad-dio years ago. he used his radio station, 1510 KDKO to encourage the community and to get the message out. Jim Walker ( Dr. Daddio) was famous for promoting social and political issues around met-ro denver Communities. “unity in the Community” meant a lot to the people of Colorado then and it certainly is relevant now. Dr. Daddio created a foundation or way to improve living conditions in the community, including health.

The Colorado Black Health Col-laborative, (CHBC) has adopted this unity theme for the June 23, 2012 Quar-terly Health Forum. The Colorado Black Health Collaborative is a non profit com-munity based organization that is com-mitted to improving the health and well-ness of the “family” - Colorado’s Black, African, and African American com-munities. since dr. daddio introduced the concept of unity in the community, the Black community has become more complex, diverse, dispersed and isolated. Thus creating difficulties in addressing health disparities within a context of the social determinants of health for African American, Blacks - immigrant and refu-gee communities. Conflicting cultural values, lack of information about health care access, and misperception compound the issue. Yet addressing these issues is of critical importance. though the paths that led to the shared health issues may be different for members of the Black com-munity, all groups continue to have sig-

nificant health disparities. Joining forces to address these shared health issues is necessary to achieve health equity.

This forum will focus on shared health concerns of the collective Black community. The forum will feature a dy-namic keynote speaker and panelists that will help to inform, motivate, provoke discussion, and help lead us to solutions. The keynote speaker is Obura Tongoi. Panelists include Brother Jeff Fard, Imani Latif, Francine Kanyinda, Dr. Atwell, and King Viteron. Ethnic food will be pro-vided.

Come and be part of the solution. Leave a lasting legacy of “Unity in the Community”. We can be empowered to improve our health, the community’s health.

–Thelma Craig

Black Man Joins the Klu Klux Klan

Here’s an installment for the truth is stranger than fiction archives. the year was 1979, and a Black man named Ron Stallworth joined the Klu Klux Klan. No, this is not a Dave Chappelle comedy skit; it really happened.

Klan membership card and certificate in hand, stallworth recently shared his incredible story at the Phase I Museum Development Celebration for the African American historical and Genealogical society in Colorado springs.

“i was a detective with the Colorado springs Police department, and saw an ad in the local paper stating the KKK was forming a chapter and looking for mem-bers,” Stallworth told the overflow audi-ence. “After calling the number, and tell-ing the guy I was a pure blooded Aryan White man, and a victim of the Zionist Oc-cupied Government, i had a white detec-tive go to a prearranged location to com-plete my membership, and pay my dues.

From that point forward, Stallworth was a Klansman. He would communicate with fellow Klansmen by phone, while his White counterpart handled in-person meetings.

the Colorado springs investigation was instrumental in yielding important intelligence, including direct communi-cation with former Klan Grand Dragon David Duke, inside information regarding Duke’s Colorado Springs visit, and local cross-burning attempts.

“Every time the Klan attempted to burn a cross in Colorado Springs, they could never figure out why so many po-lice cars were in the area,” stallworth hu-mored. “needless to say no crosses were burned during our investigation.”

When asked if he had any regrets, Stallworth chuckles, “I regret the police department didn’t purchase the robe and hood. i wanted that hood!”

–brother jeff

L-R: Colorado Springs Police Commander Fletcher Howard, former detective Ron Stallword, AAHGS director Candice McKnight, Colorado Springs Police Chief Peter Carey

Trayvon Martin Killer Back In JailGeorge Zimmerman, the self-pro-

claimed neighborhood watchman, and killer of 17-year old Trayvon Martin, is back in Florida jail. A judge revoked Zimmerman’s bond for lying to the court about his finances so he could receive a lower bond. Zimmerman failed to dis-close he had raised nearly $135,000 for his legal defense through his website.

It took 44 days, and thousands of pro-testers from across the country demanding justice before Zimmerman was arrested, and eventually charged with second-de-gree murder. many were outraged when he was released on a meager 150,000-dol-lar bond.

Negro/Nigger Hill Renamed In Honor of Aunt Clara Brown

Gilpin County manager Roger Baker knew it was time for another name change. he recently applied to the united states Board on Geographic names, and suc-cessfully had Negro Hill, formerly Nigger

hill, changed to Aunt Clara Brown hill.today the entry on the Geographic

Names Information System reads :Aunt Clara Brown Hill: summit;

9,088 ft, in Arapaho National Forest, 0.75 mil NW of Central City, 6.6 mi E of Saint Mary’s; the name honors “Aunt” Clara Brown (c.1803-1885), who was born a slave, then after earning her free-dom, moved to Colorado where she op-erated a laundry, helped found churches, grubstaked young miners, cared for the sick, and invested in real estate. In 1884, Clara Brown became the first woman to be inducted into the Colorado Pioneer As-sociation, and in 1989 into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame.

Patrica Caulhoun details the story in her Westword magazine story: Negro Hill: Official name of spot near Central City finally changed to honor Aunt Clara Brown.

9 year old 5 POINTS NEWS Journalist Aminah Fard spending time with Dr. Terri Richardson

Aminah Fard: What do you do for a living?

Terri Richardson, MD: I’m a doctor. I work at Kaiser Permanente, and I have been there about eight years. I used to work in the Bernard F. Gipson Eastside Family health Clinic in Five Points, and I worked there for about 17 years. I have been working as a doctor for 25 years, and I’m the type of doctor that takes care of adult patients, internal medicine.

AF: Where did you go to college?TR: I went to Stanford in California

for college, and I’m from Denver.AF: Do you enjoy your job, and what

do you like best about being a doctor?TR: I definitely enjoy my job. I like

that I am really able to help people, not just as a doctor in my office, but with some of the things I have learned over the years and working with other people. I

am able to go out into the community and help people live healthier lives by eating better, exercising more, and I get to work with a lot of wonderful people. I really love it.

AF: How did you come up with the unity in the Community event?

TR: Growing up in Denver, I remem-ber Dr. Daddio used to own a radio sta-tion. He used to be in the same building that brother jeff is in today. And he would always say as a community we need to do better getting together, and help-ing one another out. so as the Colorado Black Health Collaborative was think-ing about our forum, we thought there are lots of health issues we all share, and we thought, why not think about some of the things dr. daddio told us to do, and that’s to unify and help do things to help improve things for our people.

A Life of Community ServiceAminah Interviews Dr. Terri Richardson

Community, join us... June 23, 2012 | 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Denver Health Rita Bass Institute, 190 West 6th Ave., Denver, CO 80204

Let us know you are coming by sending an email to

Coloradobhc@yahoo.com.

www.coloradoblackhealth.org

June 2012 8 9

NAACP Supports Marriage Equality nAACP.org–the national Asso-

ciation for the Advancement of Colored People released a resolution on may 19 supporting marriage equality. At a meeting of the 103-year old civil rights group’s board of directors, the organiza-tion voted to support marriage equality as a continuation of its historic commit-ment to equal protection under the law.

“The mission of the NAACP has al-ways been to ensure the political, social and economic equality of all people,” said Roslyn M. Brock, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the NAACP. “We have and will oppose efforts to codify discrimination into law.”

“Civil marriage is a civil right and a matter of civil law. The NAACP’s support for marriage equality is deeply

rooted in the Fourteenth Amendment of the united states Constitution and equal protection of all people,” said Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO of the nAACP.

the nAACP has addressed civil rights with regard to marriage since Loving v. Virginia declared anti-misce-genation laws unconstitutional in 1967. In recent years the NAACP has taken public positions against state and feder-al efforts to ban the rights and privileges for LGBT citizens, including strong op-position to Proposition 8 in California, the Defense of Marriage Act, and most recently, north Carolina’s Amendment 1, which changed the state constitu-tion’s to prohibit same sex marriage.

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Join the Center for African American Health at this year’s Destination Health: Walk/Run/Learn on July 28th in Denver’s City Park. This fundraiser combines a 5K Walk/Run with a Health Learning Expo and offers shorter routes such as the one mile “mocha mile Fun Run” and the “Senior Shortcut” for families with young children, physically-challenged in-dividuals and older adults. At the health Learning Expo, visitors will find out about active, healthy lifestyles and can gather useful information at more than 40 booths. A special Children’s Health and Safety Area, sponsored in part by the Denver Museum of Nature and Science and the Piton Foundation, will provide activities and information for children and parents. During the festive conclu-sion of this intergenerational, half-day event, enjoy the sounds of Denver’s-own Mary Louise Lee Band, who will perform jazz, R&B, and pop hits from the ‘60s to the present beginning at 10:00 am. Desti-nation Health is being co-chaired by For-mer denver Bronco and denver health Foundation executive Haven Moses and Denver Public School Board of Education Member and former City Councilwoman, happy haynes.

Participants are invited to join in a pre-event stretch and Zumba exercise ses-

sion beginning at 8:00 am on July 28th in City Park just west of the Denver Mu-seum of Nature and Science. The 5K Walk/Run and Senior Shortcut will begin promptly at 8:30am followed by the one mile “Mocha Mile Fun Run” at 9:00 am. An award ceremony is scheduled for 9:30 am.

don’t wait – register online today at www.caahealth.org, or contact the Center at 303-355-3423 for more information. Pre-event registration fees are $30 for Adults; $25 for Children 6-17 and Seniors 50+; $25 per person for Walk/Run Teams of 4 or more people; children 5 and under are free but registration is still required. On July 28, the on-site registration fee will be $35.

Destination Health: Walk/Run/Learn is supported by lead sponsor, Eli Lilly; volunteer sponsor, KeyBank; other sup-porters include: LiveWell Colorado, Den-ver Museum of Nature and Science, The Piton Foundation, the Colorado health Foundation, Caring for Colorado Founda-tion, Colorado Access, University of Col-orado Cancer Center, the Colorado trust, denver water , wells Fargo and media sponsors CBS4, Denver Urban Spectrum, 5 Points news and Jammin’ 101.5.

–Gerri Gomez Howard

2012 Destination Health: Walk/Run/Learn

Last year, Delta Sigma Theta was among the many organziations supporting Destination Health

As you now know, on Saturday, may 19th, our Board passed a resolution in support of marriage equality.

The NAACP is an historic organiza-tion which 103 years ago set on a path to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of all people. As Board members, we take the responsibil-ity to guide this organization seriously. One of the crucial roles we play is to en-sure that our mission which helped define America in the last century continues to be implemented in this our Association’s second century.

When people ask why the NAACP stands firmly for marriage equality, we say that we have always stood against laws which demean, dehumanize, or dis-criminate against any person in this great country. that is our legacy. For over 103 years we have stood against such laws, and while the nature of the struggle may change, our bedrock commitment to equality of all people under the law never will.

One of the NAACP’s greatest lead-ers, Ella Baker, described this when she said and I quote: “Remember, we are not fighting for the freedom of the Negro alone, but for the freedom of the human spirit a larger freedom that encompasses all mankind.”

we live in a democracy. And in our democracy we have the benefit of a Con-stitution which defines the equal rights which we all share and to which we as a nation aspire. Because the text of our Constitution is so beautiful, let me share just a few simple clear words of the Four-teenth Amendment which says in part that no state “shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protec-tion of the laws.” Marriage Equality is just that, the right to be treated equally in the eyes of the government.

the nAACP did not issue its sup-port of marriage equality from a per-sonal, moral, or religious perspective. Rather, we deeply respect differences of personal conscience on the religious definition of marriage, and we strongly affirm the religious freedoms of all as protected by the First Amendment.

As the nation’s leading civil rights organization, it is not our role or intent to express how any place of worship should act in its own house. we have not done so in the past and will not do so in the future. This history and commitment to separation of church and state contin-ues as we stand for equality -- marriage equality – under the law.

Thank you.

Statement from NAACP Chairman Roslyn Brock

10 8 5 Points news

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June is the month that people in high school or college graduate. I believe that education is very important. when you work hard, good things happen. With edu-cation comes success, and a good future. everyone should get an education, so that they can feel the accomplishment.

Unfortunately, I found out that not as many people as I thought graduate from high school. According to the Colorado Department of Higher Education, Colo-rado is 46th in the U.S. in the rate of high school graduation. in addition a huge gap exists in graduation rates between races. For example: White people graduate at 89

percent, Asians 84 percent, Blacks 66 per-cent, native Americans 59 percent, and hispanics 57 percent. that is pretty sad. Out of every five people, only one or two will graduate from high school.

I haven’t graduated from high school, but I have from 5th grade, and I felt a huge amount of accomplishment. It is my goal to graduate from high school, as well as college. i encourage everyone, especially my peers, to do the same. Congratulations to those who have graduated! Nice Job!

–Aliayah Fard

I Haven’t Graduated from High School But...

5 POINTS NEWS Journalist Alijah Fard, 12

or such is the perception and re-action when i share where my daughter at-tends high school. The oh so familiar look, i can practically dictate the thoughts with-out the words being spoken. The thought “…oh her child must need disciplinary ac-tion...”, “… her child must be a little slow, and need help in school…” or “…she must have wanted to get rid of her daughter….”. All these things have either been stated or strongly implied in conversation, and all of those assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth. My daughter excels in school and because she is the perfect mix of fierce in-dependence, a hunger to excel, and a God given intellectual capacity. she is charm-ing, beautiful and overall a brilliant young lady. Such a gem of a child needs to be in an environment that creates the best pos-sible launching platform; hence the need to look beyond the status quo for her educa-tional needs was born. Initially, ONLY my daughter and i would entertain the idea. it was an uphill battle first with her father, then the rest of the family. While it was vital for

my daughter to want this new experience, I believe it’s also important to have the sup-port of her extended family as well. Some of them were supportive, and frankly some remain suspect. you are not alone in rais-ing a suspicious eye at the boarding school concept. As a family (parents and child) we made a difficult decision. We considered all the best school options, and settled upon a boarding school that offered an equestrian program as part of the curriculum. It’s a great fit for my daughter, reflected in her ever so confident and beautiful smile. Although there were many high quality schools as candidates for my child’s secondary education, the boarding schools offered so much more access to the building blocks of her future. It’s certainly not for all children and not for all families, but it is a viable choice for some. It could possibly be for you.

– Katrina SimsProud Momma for Life

Bad Kids go to Boarding School…

It’s been said “He who fails to plan is planning to fail.” Maybe not in every situation, but when it comes to pursuing a higher education, lack of fianancial re-sources is often the nemesis.

the good news is that there are pro-grams that have proven to be instrumental in executing a finanicial plan for college. CollegeInvest is one of them.

CollegeInvest is a not-for-profit di-vision of the Colorado Department of Higher Education, with the goal of help-ing Coloradans achieve their higher edu-cation goals. They provide expert infor-mation, simple financial planning tools, and tax advantaged 529 college savings plans to help everyone who wants to go to college:• They currently provide 4 different sav-

ings plans to meet the varying needs of Colorado families.

• They created the Education Cents pro-gram to help students and families better understand financial matters, to make more informed decisions about paying for college.

• And, their Matching Grant Program is de-signed to help qualifying middle to lower income families save for higher education.

Additional resources for parents and indi-viduals within the Department of Higher Education include:

• The Colorado Department of Higher education – By coordinating policy and state resources for the state’s 28 public institutions as well as several hundred proprietary schools, the de-partment seeks to ensure that higher education is accessible and affordable to all Coloradans. the department helps bring cultural and artistic educa-tion opportunities to citizens in each of Colorado’s 64 counties.

• CollegeInColorado.org – A free, com-prehensive Website dedicated to pro-viding adults and students with every-thing they need to know about career exploration and planning, selecting high school courses, choosing and ap-plying to colleges, obtaining financial aid and getting ready to take the SAT, ACt or GRe tests.

–source: www.collegeinvest.org

Now is the Time to Pay for College

“Don’t aim to pay the entire bill. If you can come up with

a third of the money your kids need for college before

they go, you are doing a good job.”~ Lisa Belkin, How Do

Parents Pay for College

June 2012 8 11

Graduates, families and friends from pre-school to college and beyond are cel-ebrating their educational accomplishments. There’s nothing more important to fu-ture success than a sound education. This is a familiar message and a topic that can be agreed upon at every level.

President Barak Obama has spent considerable time in Colorado. He delivered the commencement speech to the 2012 graduating class at the Airforce Academy, and prior to that shared his thoughts on the importance of education at CU Boulder. The following are excerpts from the president’s speech at CU Boulder:

Graduation: A Stepping Stone Towards a Brighter Future HOPE Center Preschool does it Again!

(Above) Arianna Green earned her business degree at CU Boulder (Below) More proud graduates Proud graduates of Hope Center take a huge educational step into the future

HOPE Center Executive Director Gerie Grimes

hoPe Center graduated another pre-school class into Kindergartners. Mrs. Gerie Grimes, and ms. Andrea Fishman provided a warm welcome that is indica-tive of the love and care that the children receive as valued students at the hoPe Center. Following the welcome, the little graduates donned their white caps com-plete with gold tassels, and proceeded into a standing room only auditorium of proud parents and relatives.

With cameras flashing, two diverse classes, The Little Discovers, lead by their teacher Mrs. Patricia Carter, af-fectionately known as Ms. Pat, and the Movers and Shakers, lead by their teacher Mrs. Carol Kobobel, recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and sung the Black National Anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

Both classes shared a little of what they learned during their pre-school ten-ure at the hoPe Center, and entertained the audience with several songs includ-ing: I’ve learned the ABC song, Greatest Love of All (Whitney Houston), Solve the Mystery, and Friends on the Move. the last song of the day was a fitting tribute to who these future leaders really are, We are the World, (Michael Jackson).

As mrs. Grimes sat on a small chair, the children were called one by one to re-ceive their certificates. Some approached her with excitement, some nervously, and others just didn’t want to leave the plat-form, as proud moms and dads took photos.

Student Makai Brooks couldn’t stop dancing and smiling at his parents, City Coun-cilman Albus and Debi Brooks, as he and the rest of the children proceeded out to upbeat music celebrating their educational accomplishment. When asked what he liked about at-tending HOPE Center, graduate Joshua Smith replied, “I like Mrs. Pat and all my friends, and I can count in Spanish.” His mother Taitianna Smith said she was extremely pleased with his development at hoPe Center.

Look out world; here come the H-happiness, O-opportunity, - P- patience, E- experi-ence, educated kindergartners.

–Terrence Hughes

So, I’m proud of all of you for doing what it takes to make this investment in a college education because it has never been more important.

In today’s economy, there’s no greater predictor of individual success than a good education. Right now, the unemployment rate for Americans with a college degree or more is about half the national average. Their incomes are twice as high as those who don’t have a high school diploma. Higher education, whether it’s a four-year college or two years at a community college, is the clearest path we’ve got to the middle class.

Now, I know that those of you who are about to graduate you’re pretty cheerful about that, huh? I know those of you who are about to graduate sometimes are wonder-ing what’s in store for your future. Because not even four years ago, just as the global economy was about to enter into freefall, you were still trying to find your way around campus. And today, our economy is recovering, but it’s not yet fully recovered from the worst financial crisis and economic crisis that we’ve experienced since the Great depression.

But here’s the thing. I want all of you to know that the degree you earn from Colo-rado is going to be the best tool that you’ve got to achieve the American promise. By far. That basic idea that if you work hard, no matter where you come from, no matter what you look like, no matter what the circumstances of your birth, if you work hard you can do well enough to raise a family and own a home, send your own kids to col-lege, put a littlebit away for retirement. That idea that each generation has a little more opportunity than the last...

President Barak Obama Addresses Students at CU Boulder

12 8 5 Points news

on Friday and saturday, June 1 and 2, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance held their annual Student Showcase, featuring recit-als of individuals from all the dance class-es at the school. Over 100 students, from preschoolers to elders, demonstrated their

talents. More than 600 people attended the performances. Classes offered include Jazz, modern, ballet, tap, West African dance, African drumming, and more. For additional information on upcoming classes, call 303-295-1759.

Whatever we experience, are ex-posed to or nurtured by as children, will directly impact our development as hu-man beings.

As it concerns those of our com-munity that continue to feed this prison conglomerate, this is in no way providing some sort of “general excuse” for people’s actions. Rather it speaks to a way of ex-amining thought processes and patterns of behavior. Without coming to understand why many of our folks think as they do, and subsequently behave as they do, there is little hope that true change can ever oc-cur. true change is the empowering result of first identifying dysfunctional thinking errors, coming to understand their impact on decision making, and finally substitut-ing different ways of thinking and adopt-ing more appropriate/socially acceptable responses to situations and stimuli. in other words, doing what many of our el-ders enjoined on us, i.e., “Act like you got some sense”. Black grandmothers, in par-ticular, are famous for that sort of advice.

For mothers who have spent far too many nights laying awake waiting for that call; to fathers who struggle with the feelings of helplessness associated with watching a child go down the wrong

road; women raising children alone be-cause the father never made it back from that last run; children who have had to tell lies (to others); far too many times for things outside of their own control (i.e. the behaviors of a parent); and for those who wait and wait and then are asked to wait again…the approach to, and support of, those returning to our communities must be adjusted. There is plenty need for change to go around.

A new offering has become available to assist in the transitional struggles from “Lockdown to Let go”. A book entitled Never Going Back: 7 Steps to Staying Out of Prison, by Hassan A. Latif, offers insight into this unique population and the process of change. To those who have suffered through the ordeals of loved ones plagued by addiction, violence, criminal-ity and continuing cycles incarceration he honors you with the title of Support Per-sonnel.

“Some of us would never have made it back without you. For some of us…you were the only reason we ever even tried!”

Book signing, Monday June 18, 2012, Blair Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton Street 5:30-7:30 PM.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Recital Author Teaches How to Stay Out of Jail

The Cleo Parker Robinson Annual Student Showcase featured over 100 students. These youngsters show-off their Tap moves Hassan Latif at brother jeff’s Cultural Center expounds on his new book

Never Going Back: 7 Steps to Staying Out of Prison.

Verne Harris, along with Thomas W. Bean Foundation board members and ad-visors, recently surveyed Bean Founda-tion properties along welton street.

many have speculated what will

become of vacant properties including Zona’s Tamales (Pig Ear Stand) and The Petal Shop. Due to extreme cost to re-furbish, the two buildings are slated for demolition.

Bean Foundation Board Surveys Welton Property

Darrell Nulan, Elvin Caldwell Jr., Fran Fuller, Gary Jackson, Gaylene Harris, and Verne Harris

Imagine you figuring out this brain and it’s effect on human bodies in your professional role as a Black Nurse. Eastern Colorado Council of Black Nurses (ECCBN), has existed for 40 years in Denver with the primary pur-pose of raising the level of health among African Americans in Colorado.

Come join us as we lay the foundation of nursing in our New Begin-ning Nursing Assistant Program. This program grew out of the ECCBN, be-lieving that we needed to lay a stronger foundation for our student nurses. ECCBN is a chapter of the National Black Nurses Association.

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Killing on Bruce Randolph Avenue and York StreetContinued from cover page

5 Points News Photo GalleryFlashlight Vigil for Victims on 34th and York Home Coming Celebration for Vada Louise Swanson

At Royal drug Liquor store on Bruce Randolph Avenue and York Street, customers instinctively dropped, and crouched on the floor, as the Memorial Day weekend began with gunfire in broad daylight. As they slowly rose to their feet, and peeped out the door, they saw a grue-some, tragic realty. Justin o’donnell, 21, lay dead in the street; deon tracy Rudd, 30, was dead in Mountain Wellness East, a marijuana dispensary, and two others were injured.

“I was sitting in my truck outside my store when I heard shots being fired,” said Bill Middleton, owner of Mile High Imports Africa. “I quickly rolled over and discovered my leg was swelling.” mid-dleton was grazed by a random bullet, and taken to Denver Health.

when he returned to the crime scene nearly three hours later, the body of O’Donnell was just being removed from

the street. “Why do they have the body laying out there like that!” Shouted many agitated onlookers. “Why can’t the police cover up the body!”

while many predict the shooting is a prelude to another violent summer, and others seek solutions to community violence, all Parris Manuel knows is she lost her close friend. “Justin and I would spend hours on the phone, and days to-gether,” she recalled, while holding a poster of him. “He is my heart, my other half.”

Marquise Davis, 23, and Denzel Richardson, 20, have been arrested in connection with the double murder, and the investigation continues. “there is a war going on in northeast denver!” said Terrance Roberts, director of the Prodigal son initiative. “And it won’t stop until we give these young people jobs, and some-thing better to do with their lives.”

Shocked onlookers at the double homicide crime scene on Daddy Bruce Randolph and York await outcome

14 8 5 Points news

Governor John Hickenlooper Signs 911 Good Samaritan Law to Reduce Drug and

Alcohol Overdose Deaths in Colorado

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law bipartisan legislation that seeks to reduce the number of preventable deaths resulting from accidental drug or alcohol overdoses. The new law comes after years in which overdose was the leading cause of accidental death in Colorado.

In recent years, the number of deaths from both illegal and legal drugs has sky-rocketed. Colorado is ranked in the top third in the country regarding overdose deaths. Tragically, most of these deaths are preventable. Although studies indicate that most people overdose in the presence of others, most people do not call for emergency services.

numerous studies have shown that the number one reason that people don’t call 911 in an overdose situation is fear of arrest and criminal prosecution for drug possession. To encourage people to seek emergency health services in the event of an accidental overdose, Colorado’s Good samaritan law provides limited protections from charge and prosecution for possession of small amounts of drugs. those who sell drugs are not protected under the new law.

“It is uplifting to see our elected offi-cials come together to pass a law that will save thousands of lives in Colorado,” said Art Way, Colorado Manager of the Drug Policy Alliance. “Although the proposal met with some questionable compromises our elected officials should be applauded for passing this law and continuing a trend in Colorado to address drug policy from a public health perspective.”

the original version protected against arrest not just prosecution, and also protected more than one reporter. Unfortunately and despite bi-partisan support for the original version these pro-tections were cut before the bill reached the House floor. Advocates are confident a practical protection for arrest still ex-ists as it is unethical to arrest if a reporter satisfies the requirements within the new law. more importantly, there is now a standard in Colorado concerning prosecu-tion for the charges of use and possession

at the scene of an overdose. The House sponsor was Ken Sum-

mers (R, Lakewood). Senator Irene Agui-lar (D, Denver) was the original sponsor and her leadership and experience as an MD proved valuable. With the enactment of this law, Colorado’s elected officials send a strong message that drug and al-cohol overdose in Colorado is a public health issue, and that fear of criminal jus-tice involvement should not be a barrier to callings 911 in the event of an overdose.

Lisa Raville, Executive Director of the harm Reduction Action Center had this to say: “On behalf of the Harm Re-duction Action Center and the commu-nity that we serve, we thank the Colorado legislature for making SB 20 a priority. Colorado overdoses have tripled in the last 10 years and we hope to never have to add any more names to our ever-growing overdose memorial at the harm Reduc-tion Action Center.”

Because accidental overdose fatali-ties have struck Coloradans all across the state, parents, student and community groups and health experts from around the state – in urban, suburban, and rural areas alike – endorsed the passage of the new law. Landmark 911 Good Samaritan legislation became law in New Mexico in 2007, and washington state enacted its law in 2010. earlier this year, illinois passed its own Good samaritan law. oth-er states – like Connecticut, Florida, New York also passed similar measures that prioritize saving lives by removing bar-riers to seeking medical help during an overdose.

“the Colorado legislature made it clear that saving lives is a priority,” way said. “drug Policy Alliance and allies such as the harm Reduction Action Cen-ter plan to ensure that this law saves lives by properly educating law enforcement and the general public about the priority of calling 911 during an overdose.”

The law went into effect upon the Governor’s signature.

I Have a Criminal Conviction: Can I Vote?I have a criminal conviction in my

past. Do I have the right to vote if I have served my sentence and success-fully completed parole?

yes. in Colorado, you have the right to vote after you’ve served your sentence, including parole. the day you’re released from parole supervision is the day you be-come eligible to vote. This right is auto-matically restored.

Do I have the right to vote if I am presently incarcerated for a felony or if I am on parole?

no, you may not register to vote or cast a vote if you are incarcerated for a felony. You are also ineligible to register

to vote or vote while serving your sen-tence of parole.

Do I have the right to vote if I am on probation?

Yes. People on probation may reg-ister to vote and cast their vote in any election. Probation and parole are terms frequently confused by the general pub-lic, so sometimes people on probation are told they can not vote. this is not true. it is legal to vote while under a sentence of probation. It is not legal to vote while un-der a sentence of parole.

Source: Colorado Crminal Justice Reform Coalition - www.ccjrc.org.

Ottawa W. Harris HonoredThe Black American West Museum,

located at 3091 California Street, invites you to join them for the dedication of the ottawa w. harris education Cen-ter, Sunday June 17, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP: 303.548.2650.

Harris, a longtime board member and

volunteer was known as “the heart” of the Black American West Museum. He was born in Denver and delivered by Dr. Jus-tina Ford, the legendary Black physician in whose home the museum resides.

Harris, a well-respected educator, and community leader, died of a heart at-tack in 2004. He was 67.

About 70 Young Politicos gathered in May at The Tavern Downtown for mean-ingful conversation over cocktails and comedy.

Financial Planner millete Birhane-maskel organized the event for young professionals to discuss politics with their peers in a relaxed environment. Each at-

tendee donated $100 towards the Obama Victory Fund.

Young professionals helped organize the event donating their services, includ-ing music, food, photography and com-edy. Gov. Hickenlooper and former Mayor Wellington Webb were honored guests.

Young Politicos Gather for Obama

Former Mayor Wellington Webb, Millete Birhanemaskel and Govenor Hickenlooper

Ford-Warren Branch Library to temporarily close for Better Denver Bond improvements

The Ford-Warren Branch of the Denver Public Library will be closed beginning June 18, 2012, for improvements and renovations as part of the Better Denver Bond Pro-gram. The branch, located at 2825 High Street (at E 28th Ave), is tentatively scheduled to reopen in mid-December 2012.

When the branch re-opens, customers will see the following improvements:• Lighting upgrades • Revitalized interiors including remodeling and updating existing service desk,

new paint, carpet and furniture throughout• Access to computers will improve with specific areas for desktop computers and

informal WiFi spaces • Public restrooms will be updated with new low flow fixtures• Staff work areas will be repaired and refreshed• Children’s area will be updated• Windows and skylights will be repaired or replaced

We thank the people of Denver for the opportunity to improve our services. During this closure the three closest Denver Public Library locations are:

• Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton Street• Pauline Robinson Library, 5575 E. 33rd Ave. at Holly Street• Park Hill Library, 4705 Montview Boulevard at Dexter Street

More information about the closure and Better Denver Bond improvements can be found at: www.denverlibrary.org/bond

June 2012 8 15

Rain or shine didn’t stop the Five Point Jazz Festival. Despite the cloudy skies, and the on and off again showers, crowds still packed the streets, and venues along Welton to hear the likes of the Ricky Earl Band, Jakarta featuring the First Lady of Denver Mary Louise Lee, Ron Ivory and The Members Only Band, Dr. Tone and The Notes, the Joe Bonner/Tom Tilton Quartet, and more. If you looked closely you would have seen a few big name Jazz legends playing such as Jimmy Esprit, who played with the likes of Bo Diddley, Miss Jackie “Moms” Mabley, Pharoah Sanders, and many other legendary musicians.

The Five Point Jazz Festival focuses on the history of Jazz in the Historic Five Points neighborhood, much which surrounds the Rossonian Hotel, whose notoriety was based on many Blacks not being able to stay in the hotels of downtown. Many in turn stayed at the Rossonian Hotel and performed downstairs and at jam sessions at the surrounding bars, such as what was offered at brother jeff’s Cultural Center and Cafe. This year the festival offered a semi-spontaneous flash mob, which performed a dance routine in front of the main stage.

The Five Point Jazz Festival works as a one day economic and social magnet to bring those who may not know the history or culture of the Five Points community. It also offers a reconnection to those who moved away from Five Points. The festival offered seven stages of “COOL CRAZY HOT” jazz. As Five Point business owner and festival volunteer, Claudia Jordan expressed, “It was a success!”

As the festival continues to grow you can bet 5 POINTS NEWS will be there to cover it.

–Kenneth Drew

Carlos Lando the Chief Operating Officer of KUVO, just does what he does and guess what? People like it! This year at the Five Point Jazz Festival, Mr. Lando received “The Five Point Jazz Tribute Award”, for his 25 years of bringing the frontiers of jazz to the Mile High city at “jazz 89 KUVO”. Carlos has interviewed the likes of Count Basie, Dexter Gordon and Betty Carter to name a few while working with the great Eddie Palmieri on the series of “Caliente Latin Jazz with Eddie Palmieri”.

Carlos who started hosting in Puerto Rico, took his skills to New York and back to Puerto Rico and back to the mainland again, creating first everywhere he went. In 1980 when came to Denver, working with another Denver legend Dr. Daddio at KDKO. Carlos left KDKO and the Five Points in 1985 to work at KBCO, until the opportunity to be the Program Director at the start up KUVO appeared and the rest became history as Carlos became a legend. When the Five Point News caught up with Carlos he was hanging out with his son at the festival giving him a history lesson, proving that Carlos the Jazz radio host can show up anytime.

5 Five Points News salutes Carlos Lando a Five Points, and jazz legend.

Cool, Crazy, Hot Jazz and MoreCarlos Lando, Jazz Legend Among Us

Community Mourns the loss ofVocalist, Businessman James Van Buren

The Ricky Earl Band kept the crowed energized with great Blues at the Five Points Plaza

Carlos Lando - third from left holding 5 Points Jazz Festival Tribute award - along with KUVO staff

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KUVO on-air host Andy O played a string of James Van Buren songs, and could barely find the words to close his Tuesday afternoon shift. Andy’s tears poured into the studio microphone, and into listener ears, as he said goodbye to Van Buren, a Denver Jazz and Blues fix-ture, who succumbed to cancer on June 4. He was 77.

“James was a friend to all of us, said KUVO music director, and on-air host Arturo Gomez. “He was not only a great musician, he was a great man.”

Best known for his hit song Three Handed Woman, Van Buren was also a businessman, who recorded on his own label. Van Buren will be truly missed, but will live on forever through his music.

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