Preston Clan and associates,

Last week I had the extraordinary privilege of attending the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Concert and presentation of the Martin Luther King Humanitarian Awards here in Denver. It was particularly rewarding not only because of the historical inauguration of America’s first black president about to take place but also because my aunt and uncle were to receive the award of the night, the MLK Lifetime Achievement Award! The governor of Colorado presented the awards to the annual award recipients and to Jean and Sam , the Lifetime award recipients. The cheering section included among others, Jemma and Tamara, who flew in from Seattle (see attached photos). Nanean would have been proud!

The evening was an emotionally packed event that also included wonderful music performed by the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, an amazing solo performance by a 15 year-old violin virtuoso, and a spirited Denver high school honors choir. One of the choral selections was “We Shall Overcome” which was joined by the entire audience and was accompanied by historical film clips of Martin Luther King presented on two huge video displays hung high above the orchestra. Many tears were shed this evening on a sea of smiling faces.

For the first time in many years, I see a glimmer of hope for this species of ours. Hope we can stick to this path!

Cheers,
Rob

Sam and Jean and the CO governor

Jemma and Tamara