Ready for More in 2024
As the holiday season reminds us of all the reasons we have to be thankful for the passing year, Denver Urban Spectrum reflects on the fullness of 2023. We laughed, cried and celebrated special moments with loved ones and friends. Surely, it has been a year to remember.
Along with a recap of each issue, our cover story features the beautiful Sheridan Guerin, who is making (her)story as the first Black ballerina to have a principal role in Colorado Ballet’s The Nutcracker. We also take a look back at the 46th Annual Denver Film Festival and Global Down Syndrome’s “Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show.” Dr. Ryan Ross announces graduates of the Urban Leadership Foundation of Colorado’s Connect leadership program, with an overview of the organization’s role as a vehicle to leadership development.
Contributor Latrice Owens provides cost-saving tips for a frugal Christmas celebration, with advice to help people get the most while spending the least. She also highlights the Kwanzaa holiday, with information about its history and importance. This year’s celebration will pay tribute to Elder Thedora Jackson, president of the Kwanzaa Committee of Denver, Inc., whose passing has affected the entire community. Her legacy will live on through this and every Kwanzaa, as Owens reminds us of the true spirit of the holiday.
The holidays are a tasty time, thanks to author and bull riding champion, Abe Morris, and his gourmet cookie company. We learn the history of Cowboy Chute Out Cookies and discover how Morris made his way from the rodeo arena to the kitchen.
The home and office of civil rights icon, Irving Andrews, is now a historic landmark in Denver; and Anna Jo Garcia Haynes is honored for decades of contributions to making improvements in early childhood education. Barry Overton gives an update about a recent verdict that could affect homebuyers; and Dr. Terri Richardson expresses thankfulness for the Colorado Black Health Collaborative’s 15 years of service.
This “End of the Year” issue is dedicated to DUS community members who have joined the ancestors this year. We appreciate our readers, advertisers and supporters, and thank you for all your love.
We are ready for more in 2024…More advancement, more empowerment and more stories that highlight the significant contributions made by members of our communities. Thank you for reading this year! The DUS staff wishes you all the best in the year to come.
Happy Holidays!
Ruby Jones
DUS Editor
“Color of Change” seeks to shine a light on our mission of spreading the news about people of color. We invite you to keep us in mind, even if it’s your spare change. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will help sustain the Denver Urban Spectrum and support our matching grant campaign goal to raise $5,000. Every dollar you contribute from November 28 through December 31 will be matched by #newsCOneeds, up to $5,000. This means your support for Denver Urban Spectrum will go twice as far.
