Spike Lee delivers best work in years Back in the ’70s, Ron Stallworth became the first African American to join the Colorado Springs Police Department. The ambitious, young college grad was soon promoted to detective, and his initial undercover case involved covering a Stokely Carmichael (Corey Hawkins) rally at Colorado College where the incendiary Black Power advocate … [Read more...]
A space for local and national arts and entertainment stories, with an emphasis on stories pertaining to the African American experience.
A voice unparalleled: ‘Queen of Soul,’ Aretha Franklin, dies at 76
A true great has passed. Aretha Franklin, “Queen of Soul,” had long been ill and on August 16, 2018, she succumbed to complications of advanced pancreatic cancer while in hospice care at her Detroit home, according to her family. The beloved performer leaves an iconic legacy instrumental in changing popular music the world over. Her early issues on Atlantic Records in the … [Read more...]
Former NBA star Vin Baker shares perils of addiction and joy of recovery
Religion, recovering substance abusers often say, is for people afraid of going to hell. Spirituality is for those who’ve already been there. Accordingly, Vin Baker, disgraced Milwaukee Bucks basketball star, courageously redeemed man, qualifies to be as spiritual as they come. God and Starbucks: An NBA Superstar’s Journey Through Addiction and … [Read more...]
‘Transforming the Impossible to the Probable’ at Mixed Blood Theatre
Black is back at Mixed Blood Theatre. Not that it ever completely left, but the playhouse’s 43rd season, “Transforming the Impossible to the Probable” (2018-19), is strong on African American fare. Five out of six scripts feature such subjects as the #MeToo movement, Black Lives Matter, NFL player protests, and gender identity. “The art and science of picking our season,” … [Read more...]
Boat cruise fosters community spirit – and fun (photos)
Overcast skies and a forecast of rain showers didn’t deter the roughly 300 people who packed the Fourth Annual Legacy Boat Cruise on Saturday, August 4. Attendees who ventured out were rewarded with a rainless, fun-filled evening, and even a bit of sun, as they donned their best sailing attire to party down the St. Croix River. The four-hour affair was sponsored by the … [Read more...]