As we close out another year and look forward to 2009, the Denver Urban Spectrum would like to thank our supporters and readers for another year of spreading the news about people of color. 

2008 was a year of change on many levels – some good, some bad and some indifferent – but also challenging and rewarding. The American people elected the first African American Commander-In-Chief of the United States. Read about Barack Obama – his triumphs, his acceptance speech and his historic campaign trails in Colorado. With the holidays approaching, it’s time for the gift giving season. Books make a perfect gift and in this issue you will be able to find the perfect book for that special person. Big Ma, as she was known, was not able to live to see the historic occasion of electing Barack Obama. But, her memory is embraced in the pages of this issue as a tribute to my mother, Ruth Boyd.

DUS contributor LisaMarie Martinez provides an up close and personal look at fashion designer Chris Christmas while David Whitney takes us on a campaign trail to the Five Points with Congressman Mark Udall. And George Bamu talks to and about our new speaker of the House, Terrance Carroll.

It’s getting to be that time of year to curl up in front of a fire with a cup of hot chocolate, herb tea or cognac and reflect on the past, look forward to the future, and count your blessings. 

Enjoy the three B’s - Barack, Books and Big Ma!