׉?ׁB!בCט  u׉׉ 7cassandra://pYMuFCbd5Qq_93QBtDlnZj1zvvjl-BGb1ZekUsnzJP4;!`׉ 7cassandra://6w8TLNGAX1InZT4D13DU97BNUAfD3XOLrKLE70eESRk̈́`q׉ 7cassandra://jJBbRktkHBleQ_takF1qLFAT23ROyICLtQZD2GOUNR0*`׉ 7cassandra://7Oq6VOqjRlwhXQCD2hXITzGpPlRfherDMrC5rZogJawM͠Ta=Wy=!!נa=Wy=!! <Ǵ9ׁHhttp://DENVERVOICE.ORGׁ ׁ Ј׈Ea=Vy=!!׉EF$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE CELEBRATING WITH FOOD DENVER VOICE VENDORS, WRAPPING PAPER 2021 Special Issue Our sixth-annual wrapping paper insert features art inspired by the original designs of our vendors. STAFF, AND VOLUNTEERS SHARE FAVORITE RECIPES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON PAGE 4 SEEKING CHANGE THROUGH BLACK COSPLAY COSPLAYER CHALLENGES LONG-HELD RACIST PERCEPTIONS PAGE 8 THE IMPACT OF CHILD TAX CREDITS THE COVID-RELATED RELIEF PROGRAM MEANS MORE COLORADO FAMILIES DON’T HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN FOOD, SHELTER, OR HEALTH PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 5, 7 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 11 DECEMBER 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 12 SINCE 1997, WE HAVE PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE TO WORK. DONATE TODAY TO ENSURE OUR VENDORS CONTINUE TO HAVE JOBS. (DENVERVOICE.ORG) FROM YOUR VENDOR: ORIGINAL ART BY JERRY ROSEN ׉ 7cassandra://jJBbRktkHBleQ_takF1qLFAT23ROyICLtQZD2GOUNR0*`a=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! בCט u׉׉ 7cassandra://a_P5lZX_pMLhn5x_kmYohXGGLYy7dF2j-UN9m1L7yZI`׉ 7cassandra://zzg9kp0ggnHNZTRy3jaknitqhXq3b4zReWDuAbMUPXQj`q׉ 7cassandra://iIRuh9zM-oK4rkGmeVJIhrYcfIxbVt7wYT5ev3J1c0w"`׉ 7cassandra://becBtt9UISV1wCIbKdkqiqRd6eW8oIgbjggOV4JDlnchd͠Ta=Wy=!!ט  u׉׉ 7cassandra://HsZgapublryXTu2B3gBBLiMbUxUvMapgURNTHLH13rMp`׉ 7cassandra://BHE84pqTo29V3nY4JKY4zm14rmlEt8O9W8DkE-zw0oM\`q׉ 7cassandra://n7u-fgCr-EQf_uIfQAtN7yj0w08ZXTQBcvQFPnYawrE`׉ 7cassandra://2NTG9JTUW7nTkI8-s9b9bhFVbx0f5SV42J6iB7jUPW0C.͠Ta=Wy=!!נa=Wy=!!mz9ׁHhttp://writedenver.orgׁ ׁ Јנa=Wy=!!L9ׁH,http://lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denverׁ ׁ Јנa=Wy=!!̼́9ׁHmailto:program@denvervoice.orgׁ ׁ Јנa=Wy=!!_t!9ׁHhttp://DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDORׁ ׁ Ј׉EDIRECTOR’S NOTE JENNIFER SEYBOLD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE DENVER VOICE offers a unique employment model. A nonprofit media outlet, our publication exists to create income opportunities for those experiencing homelessness and poverty through a low barrier entry that creates entrepreneurs – micro-business owners who earn an income by vending the paper to help break down community-held misconceptions. Their income, and our operations, are all fueled by the generosity of the public. This year that incredible work celebrated 25 years! It’s a challenging time to operate an employment program of any kind, as evidenced by thousands of small business employer challenges across the U.S. It’s even more challenging to operate one that depends entirely on public engagement to be successful. At the start of 2021, the Denver VOICE had largely returned to normal operations in our office. Equipped with new tools to help our vendors succeed, including a robust online news platform, cashless payments, and a “find your vendor” tool, we were ready to see street sales increase again and vendor numbers climb. But as businesses struggled, restrictions remained in place, and some employers changed their models, altogether, we learned it wouldn’t be quite that easy. We’d have to be patient, and we’d have to remain adaptable. Vendor numbers remain lower than usual even as we enter the last month of the year, much the way that many employers are struggling everywhere to find employees. Sales have also increased more slowly than we projected. But, thanks to ongoing community support, and the incredible community generosity, as of November 1st, we hit 75% of normal distribution numbers. That’s better than any street paper in our North American network! And thanks to Venmo, we now know that the average donation per paper to our vendors is at least $18,000 of collective income a month for our vendors! For an organization to endure 25 years and be as relevant today as it was at its founding is quite a feat. To be more relevant and more valuable today is an honor that goes to few. That honor is ours because of you! Even through what continues to be one of the most challenging times in our history, you keep showing up with generous support! I am so proud of the community you’ve helped us build, for this unprecedented year of success, and for 25 incredible years that have allowed us to employ more than 4,600 people to date. Thank you for your ongoing support as we keep forging into the future! ■ December CONTRIBUTORS ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. ADRIAN MICHAEL is a Denver-based photographer that specializes in editorial, portraiture, documentary and street photography. A graduate of the Art Institute of Colorado with a degree in photography, he’s been creating images for over 15 years and has a strong passion for capturing the true essence of people and telling stories in visual media. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ashton Brown Haven Enterman Kersten Jaeger Kate Marshall Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Lando Allen Brian Augustine Patrick Balerio Rea Brown GiGi Galen David Gordon Raelene Johnson Adrian Michael Jerry Rosen Penny Sandoval WHAT WE DO The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We give our vendors a job and help them tell their stories; this creates a space for them to be part of a community again. Vendors purchase copies of the VOICE for 50 cents each at our distribution center. This money pays for a portion of our production costs. Vendors can buy as many papers as they want; they then sell those papers to the public for a suggested $2 donation. The difference in cost ($1.50) is theirs to keep. WHO WE ARE The Denver VOICE is a nonprofit that publishes a monthly street newspaper. Our vendors are men and women in the Denver metro area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,600 vendors to work. Our mission is to facilitate a dialogue addressing the roots of homelessness by telling stories of people whose lives are impacted by poverty and homelessness and to offer economic, educational, and empowerment opportunities for the impoverished community. We are an award-winning publication, a member of the International Network of Street Papers and the Colorado Press Association, and we abide by the Society of Professional Journalists code of ethics. WRITERS/RECIPE PROVIDERS John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Zakiyyah Brooks Rea Brown Anthony Cornejo Lainie Lee Cook Robert Davis Michael Roman Dixon Frances Ford Raelene Johnson Jacob Marsh Jennifer Seybold BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne With the money they make selling the VOICE, vendors are able to pay for their basic needs. Our program provides vendors with an immediate income and a support group of dedicated staff members and volunteers. Vendors are independent contractors who receive no base pay. EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT editor@denvervoice.org VENDOR PROGRAM program@denvervoice.org • (720) 320-2155 ADVERTISING ads@denvervoice.org MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1931, Denver CO 80201 VENDOR OFFICE 989 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO 80204 OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. @deeOCE 2 DENVER VOICE December 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ׉ 7cassandra://iIRuh9zM-oK4rkGmeVJIhrYcfIxbVt7wYT5ev3J1c0w"`a=Vy=!!׉EWINTER WISH LIST NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Reusable water bottles Sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets (sizes M, L, XL) Hats or beanies Blankets Gloves WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP MICHAEL ROMAN DIXON HOMELESS IN DENVER Heavy snow falls. It’s wet ice. Everyone looks dismal in this down town. I stand, dark and dismal, in my tattered, torn overcoat watching another high rise of homes being built. The construction work is slow. They BANG BANG BANG on large hollow iron pipes like empty bells without a song. The construction workers shiver and move like slow moving statues. The snowfall feels like someone throwing wet snowballs from the arctic that don’t miss slapping me in my face. I can no longer feel my fingers, toes or nose. I start to walk for warmth. And then I remember: at least today I have a warm, warm room. At least today in my warm, warm room at least I have a flower that blooms. At least today. FRAN FORD DUET AT SAMHAIN They say there’s a veil, and a time of a veil lifting or tearing between here and there, places where I more and more put a foot in each, straddle and reach for some torn and dulcet thing, where the hurting sweet of old love songs, the haunting sweet of coming silence, play a duet. The Hard Times Writing Workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. It’s open to all members of the public, especially those experiencing homelessness. Each month, the Denver VOICE publishes a selection of writing from these workshops. DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org December 2021 DENVER VOICE 3 ׉ 7cassandra://n7u-fgCr-EQf_uIfQAtN7yj0w08ZXTQBcvQFPnYawrE`a=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! בCט u׉׉ 7cassandra://WA25s1zC1-Yj-6f-78gMNrng7p-u1gSFjpTHyBw9booD`׉ 7cassandra://-Nm164NA0VU1hhooeh_L4oNPDLh2Iq2uGbCEeWEa9j0͜ `q׉ 7cassandra://kIMy2gWwU6xUhi4Iyf3ARFuHhyBvoRUqzxTsHq8_bDo4F`׉ 7cassandra://BX5eAeFmsBPOfM4ZUeG-reirMemuIZ0cD17S22d7hFQ |2͠Ta=Xy=!!ט  u׉׉ 7cassandra://O1gwqo6d2EntPHax1IjMkSOsC5X0WwX4Ovt8ltLWOwI:`׉ 7cassandra://m5EQ_imnASO8wEn29RAoVRMrSj09i7nHucWBQzGC910͝`q׉ 7cassandra://ciD03zCWR0JPq0DVZtE9IW77KFGMV6gjkLyyH63sXO84]`׉ 7cassandra://wVnK5UefJZ2nd7I11N-ZU_zfDRQyZ41Bg-mHkDbxtwk Ї "͠Ta=Xy=!!׉EHOLIDAY RECIPESOLIDAY RECIPE A variety of recipes from Denver VOICE vendors, volunteers, and staff to keep you warm during the holidays! SUGAR BAKED HAM Lando Allen INGREDIENTS: ☐1 C brown sugar ☐1 ham ☐2 rings of canned pineapple ☐2 maraschino cherries ☐Enough apple jelly to cover the topside of the ham STEPS: 1. Preheat the oven to 350°. 2. Place the ham in a roasting dish. 3. In a bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and brown sugar. 4. Rub the mixture on the top of the ham. 5. Add the apple jelly to the top of the ham. 6. Place the pineapple rings on top of the ham and add cherries to the middle of the rings. 7. Cover the ham with foil. 8. Bake the ham for 4 hours. OMA’S KARTOFFELPUFFER Jennifer Seybold Quick and Easy German Potato Pancakes: This is a recipe I make on December 23rd every year with my children. It’s our pre-holiday celebration before we head out to look at holiday lights in our pajamas – a celebration of my Oma, my Mom and where my family comes from. It’s comfort food and feels like home, the perfect recipe for the holidays. GREEN CHILE Anthony Cornejo WARM WINTER BREAKFAST Zakiyyah Brooks INGREDIENTS: ☐2 tbsp peanut butter ☐2 tbsp grape jelly or apple butter ☐½ stick butter ☐2 slices wheat bread ☐1 cup cold milk STEPS: 1. First, turn the right eye of the stove to 6 (highest temp on one of the burners on the right side of the stove). 2. Put your skillet on the burner. 3. Get your half-stick of butter, cut it in half, and melt that ¼ stick in the skillet. 4. When the butter is melted, add the 2 slices of bread. 5. Brown one side of each slice, and fl ip the slices over. 6. On one slice, add peanut butter. On the other slice, add the jelly or apple butter. 7. Smooth out the peanut butter and jelly/apple butter, and let them melt. 8. Turn off the burner. 9. Put the two slices of bread together on a saucer. 10. Pour the cold milk into a cup and there you have your Warm Winter Breakfast. INGREDIENTS: ☐1 lb pork loin or shoulder ☐1 tbsp + ½ cup lard (can substitute with butter or oil) ☐1 cup chopped onion ☐4 cloves garlic, pressed ☐1 tsp black pepper ☐1 tsp dried oregano ☐¼ tsp ground cumin ☐1 14-oz can diced tomatoes ☐3 cans chicken broth (14.5 oz) ☐6 oz tomato paste ☐1½ cups diced green chiles (mild, hot) ☐Optional 1½ cup jalapenos (12 oz jar/can/fresh, not pickled) ☐2 cups water ☐1 cup fl our ☐2 tbspchicken bouillon STEPS: 1. Cook and shred pork. Set aside. (Oven: 325° 3hrs ; crockpot: 4hrs on high; instant pot/pressure cooker: 1hr) 2. Add garlic, onion and 1 tbspfat content in a pot and let cook until onions are translucent. 3. Add tomatoes, green chiles, jalapenos (if using), one can of chicken broth and let cook at low heat. 4. Create a roux in a separate pan, melt ½ cup of fat content over medium low heat, add fl ower and chicken bouillon. and stir. continue to stir until it reaches the consistency of pancake batter add water or stock if needed. 5. Add cumin, tomato paste, pepper and oregano to the green chile pot. stir until blended in. 6. Add the roux to green chile pot, stir in, cook 5-10 minutes. 7. Add remaining water, chicken broth and pork in green chile pot. Stir and let simmer for at least one hour ir in, cook 5-10 minutes. en broth and pork in green chile at least one hour 8. Add salt to taste and water if needed. 9. Pour on your eggs, burritos, or in a bowl. Enjoy! if needed. or in a bowl. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS: ☐4 or 5 large potatoes, peeled ☐1 large egg ☐1 medium sized onion chopped ☐½ tsp salt ☐about 2 tbsp fl our ☐oil that can withstand heat – vegetable or canola STEPS: 1. Cut up potatoes (about 4 cups) and put in blender. 2. Add egg, onion, salt, and fl our. 3. Blend, stopping frequently to scrape down sides. 4. Heat enough butter or mixture of butter and oil to coat bottom of fry pan. Keep on medium-high heat. 5. Drop spoonfuls of batter into pan. 6. Fry until brown (about 3 to 4 minutes), fl ip over, and continue frying until cooked through and crispy brown (about 3 to 4 minutes). 7. Remove to a paper-towel lined plate to absorb any fat and then transfer to the oven to keep warm. 8. Continue frying till all batter is used, adding more oil as needed. 9. Best served immediately. NOTES/HINTS: • If the potatoes are too dry, you may need to add an extra egg so that the blender will mix properly. If the batter seems too thin, add fl our to thicken. • You may need to practice this a few times to decide at what point to stop blending. The practice is worth it, though. These pancakes taste that good! • Traditionally these pancakes are served with applesauce and powdered sugar, but you can spice them up anyway you like and add toppings like cheese, sour cream, onions, and more. 4 DENVER VOICE December 2021 ׉ 7cassandra://kIMy2gWwU6xUhi4Iyf3ARFuHhyBvoRUqzxTsHq8_bDo4F`a=Vy=!!׉EBIZCOCHITOS Elisabeth Monaghan JOUIR John Alexander My daughter, Caitlin, makes these every year and gives them to friends as Christmas and New Year’s presents. INGREDIENTS: ☐5 1/2-6 cups fl our ☐3 tsp baking powder ☐1 tsp salt ☐1 cup granulated sugar ☐2+ tsp anise seed ☐1 lb. (6 cups) shortening or lard ☐2 eggs ☐¼ cup brandy ☐¼ cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon (mix together for sprinkling on top of cookies) STEPS: 1. Heat oven to 350° F 2. In large mixing bowl, cream together shortening and sugar 3. Add eggs to mixture 4. In a separate bowl, mix together rest of dry ingredients: fl our, baking powder, salt, anise seed 5. Add dry mixture to large bowl bit by bit, mixing in brandy, until the dough is relatively stiff but still sticky 6. Roll dough thin and cut into star (or any) shapes 7. Place shapes on baking sheet and sprinkle with cinnamon/ sugar mixture 8. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until golden brown This is a dinner that I enjoy cooking for special occasions, which is why I call this “Jouir,” which is French for Enjoy! INGREDIENTS: ☐3 to 4 packages of oxtails. (I usually buy my oxtails at Safeway or King Soopers. You can also replace with potatoes or vegetables of your choosing.) ☐Instant rice (I prefer white rice) ☐Water ☐Seasoning STEPS: 1. Get out your medium sized crockpot, and of course, the oxtails. 2. Rinse the oxtails and trim off excess fat. 3. Place the oxtails in the crockpot. 4. Add water (but no more than half-way covering the oxtails) 5. Set the temperature to low and allow to cook for 8 hours. 6. Add seasoning to your taste (salt, pepper, red pepper, seasoning salt. 7. When the oxtails have about 15 minutes left to cook, add the instant rice to the crockpot. 8. Serve with a side salad, and enjoy this delicious dish! QUICKLY DISAPPEARING COOKIES Brian Augustine Makes 6 Dozen 1. MIX THE FOLLOWING UNTIL SMOOTH: ☐5 sticks butter ☐2 large eggs ☐2 tsp hazelnut oil (can be bought at Starbucks) ☐½ tsp nutmeg ☐½ tsp salt ☐2 tsp baking soda 2. ADD & MIX: ☐Add 6 cups oatmeal ☐2 tsp cinnamon ☐1½ cups packed brown sugar ☐1 cup regular sugar ☐6 cups fl our ☐+ ½ cup fl our for high altitude ☐ – ½ cup fl our for sea level 3. ADD & MIX UNTIL WELL DISTRIBUTED: ☐16 oz Chocolate chips ☐16 oz Peanut butter chips 4. BAKE & ENJOY! 1. Use tablespoon to put on cookie sheet 2. Bake at 350° for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool. 3. Most important: hide until you want to eat them. They disappear quick. BEER TURKEY Jacob Marsh After you’ve seasoned your turkey, and before putting it in the oven, take an 18-oz can of beer (I use Fosters), and place it in the butt of the turkey, and cook the turkey in a roasting pan for the recommended amount of time. MOM’S ITALIAN MEATBALLS Raelene Johnson “FAST ACTION” BARS Rea Brown INGREDIENTS: ☐1½ cup carob ☐2 cup almond butter ☐½ cup maple syrup STEPS: 1. Combine the ingredients in a microwavable bowl 2. Place the bowl in the microwave and cook 1 minute or until melted 3. Remove the bowl and stir the melted mix until it’s a solid color 4. Spray a 9x14 pan with non-stick spray or butter or oil 5. Pour mix into pan 6. Put pan in the freezer and freeze for 20-30 minutes 7. Cut the frozen bars into squares 8. Eat and enjoy! PEAS WITH CREAM CHEESE SAUCE Lanie Lee Cook’s Mom, Denise Meyer INGREDIENTS: ☐8 oz plain cream cheese (you can substitute for a container of cream cheese and chives, sold in stores) ☐½ cup milk ☐1 tbsp fi nely chopped fresh chives ☐1 tsp lemon juice ☐½ tsp garlic salt ☐15 oz canned peas STEPS: 1. Stir cream cheese and milk over low heat ‘til smooth. 2. Stir in rest of ingredients. Mix in canned peas. 3. Optional - garnish with more chives, fresh chopped parsley and/or paprika. INGREDIENTS: ☐4 slices dry bread or cereal ☐1 pound ground beef ☐2 eggs ☐½ cup grated Romano cheese ☐2 tbsp chopped parsley ☐1 clove garlic, minced ☐1 tsp salt ☐dash of pepper STEPS: 1. Soak bread in water 2 or 3 minutes, then squeeze out moisture 2. Combine soaked bread with remaining ingredients, mixing well 3. Form into small balls 4. Brown slowly in 2 tbsp hot oil 5. Add to sauce 6. Cook 30 minutes p hot oil December 2021 DENVER VOICE 5 ׉ 7cassandra://ciD03zCWR0JPq0DVZtE9IW77KFGMV6gjkLyyH63sXO84]`a=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! בCט u׉׉ 7cassandra://7AQSUmIWBYmm5-GYSpWJMdrYtQXZo-Mx-flsGmOd_dA`׉ 7cassandra://O14GdVlo6a8EbYn2dckswyCcj8ExMQ15iJtDO4-AnA0x`q׉ 7cassandra://sVdr-aAo_9J0EYTy5zAINv8aes_HYlFCMp7VxfMwBCM'.`׉ 7cassandra://jxLig9HWCzaqf0bt3eMCQ3oqJr3AGaM1k_X4ayDO_W0M8͠Ta=Xy=!!ט  u׉׉ 7cassandra://PqZziyAWJwEoVl2Yf8EoesY5AfV5iVQ5GDYoUj1OyYcO(`׉ 7cassandra://LU9VYlnJr64UHT6I6tJzhQvyW5jPvUzpD-fNc4X_ZeA}G`q׉ 7cassandra://il1FxsLfkXlqZkQNwhQ__pnPSvDG6271i1MVNj9QtU0)O`׉ 7cassandra://imtpsqtM2gfZR-Ts1FKlsGgyix8kZqgV0bAnSfo48Wow}͠Ta=Yy=!!נa=Yy=!!9ׁHhttp://WeFaceItTogether.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉EnLOCAL NEWS HOW THE CHILD TAX CREDIT IS IMPACTING COLORADO FAMILIES BY ROBERT DAVIS Treasury Department and began going out in July. However, expansion is scheduled to sunset at the end of the year. Deputy Treasury Secretary Adewale Adeyemo described the program as one that is “meaningfully improving the lives of children in every corner of the country,” while Sen. Michael Bennet said the program proves that “we don’t have to accept childhood poverty as a permanent feature of our economy.” The Treasury has distributed more than $61 billion to families as of October 15, according to agency data. More than $1 billion of that total has gone to Colorado households over the first four months of the expanded program. Approximately $256 million in CTC payments went to 600,000 Colorado families with more than one million eligible children in October. Families received an average payment of $428, which is slightly below the national average, according to data from the Treasury. Data from the Census Bureau’s weekly Household Pulse CREDIT: AMBER VARWIG MONEY IS OFTEN TIGHT in the Varwig household, which includes three children under the age of five, and a grandmother who needs live-in care. So, when federal lawmakers expanded the Child Tax Credit (CTC) program through the American Rescue Plan back in June, Amber Varwig, the family matriarch, thought it would be worth it to apply to boost the family budget. “For a woman in my tax bracket, so to speak, the money can be life-changing,” Varwig told the Denver VOICE. The COVID-related relief program provides payments of $300 per child under six years old and $250 per child over six. CTC payments are made in monthly installments by the Survey also shows that the program has decreased housing and food insecurity for many Coloradans. Nearly one in four families that received a CTC payment in one week spent it on housing and food, according to the latest survey. President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better Plan includes a oneyear extension of the CTC program, though it would revert the maximum payment down to $2,000 per child from the current $3,000 to $3,600 cap. The program would also remain fully refundable, meaning the poorest families will continue to qualify for it even if they don’t make enough to file taxes. “After decades of spending $5.6 trillion on two wars in the Middle East and $5 trillion in tax cuts for the wealthiest people in America, we finally are on the cusp of making historic, overdue investments in the American people,” Sen. Bennett said in a statement. “We will make the Child Tax Credit available to nearly every family in America.” However, the household survey data also reveals racial and economic disparities in terms of which families received CTC payments and how those funds were spent. For example, 62% of Colorado families who received a payment in October were college-educated white families. At the same time, a simple majority of CTC payments went to households with a combined income of more than $75,000 per year. White families were also more likely to spend their CTC payments than Hispanic and Black families. Sixty-three percent of Black families used their CTC payments to pay down debt compared to 48% of Hispanic families and 26% of white families. Meanwhile, nearly 40% of white families reported “mostly spending” their CTC payments compared to 30% of Hispanic families and 36% of Black families. Research from the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) found that these disparities exist across the nation. The organization found that the gaps were born from white families being more likely to claim the CTC on their tax returns while other eligible households failed to do so. Meanwhile, another 20% of respondents surveyed by the organization reported not knowing about the program. NWLC said these findings are “especially relevant as community organizations and the [federal] government are currently working to provide outreach to parents about the CTC and the urgency of filing a tax return in 2021.” But, some families that are receiving CTC payments report experiencing issues receiving their full allotment. Varwig received a letter from the Treasury over the summer telling her she qualifies for $900 in monthly CTC payments because she has three children. However, each of her payments thus far has been $750 and she says attempts to rectify the payments have been futile thus far. Analysts at Public Policy say addressing these obstacles for low-income families will boost the CTC’s effectiveness at reducing housing and food insecurity as well as child poverty rates. Some solutions include providing tax filing services and increasing access to banking for eligible families. For families like the Varwigs, the CTC program means much more than an additional paycheck. “It would mean a vehicle so that my disabled mother and three very small children don’t have to freeze in the snow waiting on buses and trains like we do every year,” Varwig said. ■ the University of Michigan’s Ford School of FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 6 DENVER VOICE December 2021 ׉ 7cassandra://sVdr-aAo_9J0EYTy5zAINv8aes_HYlFCMp7VxfMwBCM'.`a=Vy=!!׉EWRAPPING PAPER 2021 Special Issue This sixth-annual wrapping paper insert is perfect for wrapping your holiday gifts or using for a special DIY holiday decoration. It features art inspired by the original designs of our vendors; and this year, we added a few throwback designs in honor of our 25th anniversary. BRIAN AUGUSTINE (2017) LANDO ALLEN (2021) PATRICK BALERIO (2016) REA BROWN (2021) REA BROWN (2021) GIGI GALEN (2021) DAVID GORDON (2017) RAELENE JOHNSON (2021) JERRY ROSEN (2021) PENNY SANDOVAL (2017) December 2021 DENVER VOICE 7 ׉ 7cassandra://il1FxsLfkXlqZkQNwhQ__pnPSvDG6271i1MVNj9QtU0)O`a=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! בCט u׉׉ 7cassandra://RQxyfC2RMVGsTkXF8c_oPCpcebsn3ahirbyrwtDgGQsC'`׉ 7cassandra://MZzVLzMSAz82TPYM07QK493PySm52NzrD6rYy_XNIigd`q׉ 7cassandra://QT7EjiRcuWYEN6Mwvf1W8NOsgbHlBcs76qG8OVZG1_Y#}`׉ 7cassandra://EllPwTmZMwPWOEDGoXaiF6TLmyzh3_BkzOOTq-OgheA͠Ta=Yy=!!ט  u׉׉ 7cassandra://eQzvO71ISyJFArInyComDNXB9hR3J1QZ3KXnxo-Zphc^`׉ 7cassandra://4AWz9FxJUINtQmmScWCIZbEZuvtqzmtv0EwxBwm9LBsͅ-`q׉ 7cassandra://ocEsw9zXOxRYde3k8L8UWxbOc89HS00elQhV_7Snf7A,`׉ 7cassandra://tpAMhlIyXw5iOkiyYknlgpEbmcJqzHrnnwX2z-YRGO8{5͠Ta=Yy=!!׉E LOCAL FEATURE SEEKING CHANGE THROUGH BLACK COSPLAY BY ADRIAN MICHAEL STANDING IN A BLUE STRIPED LEOTARD with large ethylenevinyl acetate foam wings protruding from her back and sharp pointy horns sticking up from her head is a female cosplayer who performs under the stage name Tif von Batsy. “I wanted an outfit that stands out, and I didn’t want to wear a costume that everyone else wears,” said von Batsy, who is cosplaying as Mirajane’s Satan Soul: Halphas, a member of the Fairy Tail Guild anime universe. “I like people asking me about my costume. I don’t always choose costumes that people know.” Not only does von Batsy’s eye-catching costume distinguish her from other cosplayers, but her entire presence is also an anomaly, as she is a Black cosplayer coexisting in a space that doesn’t have many participants. With an Austrian mother and an African-American father, von Batsy identifies as Black and white, but according to her, people only see her as Black. “I’ve heard people refer to me as ‘the Black girl,’ or say things like ‘She’s just a Black person,’ or, ‘You speak proper [English] for a Black person.’” While she frequently endures vitriol and criticism from peers and strangers regarding her ethnicity, von Batsy considers being of mixed race interesting because it gives her two perspectives. “I hate going into a situation assuming someone will be racist, but sometimes I can sense it; it’s usually either subtle or very blatant.” She recalls a situation when she worked at a party princess company and was told that she could only play Princess Jasmine, Princess Tiana, or the fairy Iridessa, but she says she refuses to let others define her. “I go about my day,” said von Batsy. “I’m just always aware of my surroundings and situations.” A veteran of anime and comic conventions, she’s been attending these events since she was a teenager, when she and her mother started designing costumes. “I’ve always been a fan of anime and loved dressing up as characters from Disney and other cartoons,” she said. Describing her experience as one of few cosplayers of color, von Batsy said, “I would like to see more people of color participating in cosplay, including Black men, and I think those participating should be welcoming of Black cosplayers. I also want to see more people of color in the industry, including more Black anime characters.” One reason there may not be as many cosplayers of color is that traditional anime typically features people with white skin, blue eyes, and blonde hair. On the flip side, Black characters are often seen as silly and idiotic, and Black anime is often portrayed with stereotypical tropes like big TIF VON BATSY POSES AT THE FAN EXPO DENVER 2021. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL 8 DENVER VOICE December 2021 ׉ 7cassandra://QT7EjiRcuWYEN6Mwvf1W8NOsgbHlBcs76qG8OVZG1_Y#}`a=Vy=!!׉E JLOCAL FEATURE o s P THANK YOU TIF VON BATSY TAKES A PICTURE WITH A FAN DURING FAN EXPO DENVER 2021. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL TIF VON BATSY TAKES A PICTURE WITH HER DAUGHTER AND HUSBAND DURING FAN EXPO DENVER 2021. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL WE LOVE OUR PINTS FIGHTING POVERTY FUNDRAISER SPONSORS AND PARTICIPANTS! TIF VON BATSY TALKES TO FANS ABOUT THE CHARACTER SHE’S PLAYING AS DURING FAN EXPO DENVER 2021. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL TIF VON BATSY TAKES A SELFIE WITH A FAN DURING FAN EXPO DENVER 2021. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL lips and dark skin — characteristics reminiscent of Sambo during the Jim Crow era. “We just want to have equal ground,” said von Batsy “Some people think they can only be this or that because that’s who they think they have to be. There need to be more people who branch out and be different and are not scared to step outside of comfort zone.” The character von Batsy plays is happy, positive & friendly. She chose it because, according to her, she enjoys dressing up as characters that she likes and associates with. She also likes helping people and walking around mingling as the character she’s portraying. Even with all the optimism and open-mindedness that von Batsy strives to exude, she acknowledges the challenges within the cosplay sphere. Von Batsy has run into people who find it offensive that she plays a character with a different skin tone. They tell her it’s not right to cosplay someone who isn’t Black. “I look at it this way: When cosplaying, you dress up because you relate to the character – it has nothing to do with skin color. You don’t need to imitate another person’s actual skin or race. The industry needs to be accepting of Black cosplayers who want to be any character they want. We’re not disrespecting the white character; we’re not putting on white skin. I don’t know how to get rid of that racist mindset.” Based on the trend toward more inclusion within the fandom space, it appears the industry is noticing and slowly starting to change. Recently, Miles Morales become the first Spider-Man of color, and Disney is going to release a live-action film of “The Little Mermaid,” with Ariel played by a Black actress. More white voice actors are stepping away from playing People of Color, and more studios are pushing for voice actors to be of the same ethnicity as the characters they’re portraying. “The majority of people hate that comic heroes are becoming Black,” said von Batsy, “but it shouldn’t matter. We need more diverse characters. People have to speak up and do the right thing — hire people for what they can do and not just to be a token.” Von Batsy believes it’s important not only for herself but for others to be seen dressing up as different people. “It’s a level of empowerment. I like positivity, and I have a belief that people should ask ‘Why can’t we do this?’ I want people to know they’re going to look awesome, and they need to hear and see more encouragement like this.” Von Batsy has discovered her purpose in cosplaying, and she encourages others to find a way to find their own. “Be confident,” von Batsy said. “People will tell you things not to do, and you have to have resolve and confidence. Do things that matter the most to you!” ■ December 2021 DENVER VOICE 9 n fighting Pints poverty a fundraiser r 2 C 0 2 i 1 - n u b r a w l e p ׉ 7cassandra://ocEsw9zXOxRYde3k8L8UWxbOc89HS00elQhV_7Snf7A,`a=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! בCט u׉׉ 7cassandra://yJFwt0E3aE5FumHeEohKraJyX8UuxVqR5sGHdnSWD8IP`׉ 7cassandra://yYlYSE2Z9yHtcoNiPpoIxJQ_tc2pQkowW_rP7JNL-zYdl`q׉ 7cassandra://HAxDkVzZ1frQEhvrDAxYrkiugAcVoiHf173JqlJjvlI!6`׉ 7cassandra://ljX-fqxv502-YP9fim2oI_YNLAxEtAYA1o7BeBHe7KIV8͠Ta=Zy=!!ט  u׉׉ 7cassandra://8efApb51L8cj_Q8jiXlKJrSiWsXuT6wX9ec7Fr6WobI%C`׉ 7cassandra://rKKtcwoBqVV4M5wdGr-e5i1ACTw4Y7MZrbmXHwvTOMEt`q׉ 7cassandra://NEp965PVNW4K6j-552vrC-qofXCThStLt9m95a0tLzM%l`׉ 7cassandra://43a47yuqu112Syh54eJKMjCWC8tKG_ytCjxnir3K4h44p̒͠Ta=Zy=!!נa=[y=!!ŁQ9ׁHhttp://buntport.comׁ ׁ Јנa=[y=!!ā̀9ׁHhttp://mcadenver.org/eventsׁ ׁ Јנa=[y=!!Á'̨9ׁH!http://denverpressclub.org/eventsׁ ׁ Јנa=[y=!!3̓ 9ׁHhttp://redrocksonline.com/filmׁ ׁ Јנa=[y=!!9[9ׁHhttp://dairyblock.comׁ ׁ Јנa=[y=!!9ׁH'http://denver.org/milehighholidays/treeׁ ׁ Ј׉EDONOR LIST WE LOVE OUR DONORS! WHEN YOU SUPPORT THE DENVER VOICE, YOU ARE HELPING SUPPORT HUNDREDS OF HOMELESS AND IMPOVERISHED INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE WORKING TO REALIZE SELF-SUFFICIENCY THROUGH EARNING A DIGNIFIED INCOME. YOUR GIFT MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE FOR THESE INDIVIDUALS. HERE, WE LIST THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN $500 AND MORE IN THE LAST YEAR. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE $25,000+ The NextFifty Initiative John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund $10,000+ Kenneth King Foundation Denver Foundation Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation Rose Community Foundation - CMP $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation $1,000-$4,999 BNSF Railway Foundation Bright Funds Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Walker Family Foundation Whole Foods Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado SEI Giving Fund Key Renter Property Management Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Creating Healthier Communities Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Kroger Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Matthew Rezek Jerry Conover The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Megan Arellano Audrey Chumley Mr. Paul Manoogian Donald Weaver $500-$999 Betty & Warren Kuehner Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Fire on Mountain Paul Hoffman Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Lori Holland Jill Haug Travis & Meggie Ramp Alistair Davidson Jim and Nancy Thomas Jennifer Seybold Sheryl and John H Parker Susan B. Jones Maggie Holben Elsbeth Williams Michael Vitco Catherine Hegedus Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi James Stegman 3M Foundation 10X Business Consultants SEMOptimize Laura Wing Eileen Di Benedetto Katherine Standiford Ridley Mcgreevey and Winocur 10 DENVER VOICE December 2021 SPONSORSHIP LEVELS THE DENVER VOICE’S ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP SUPPORT LEVELS PROVIDE BUSINESSES LIKE YOURS THE OPPORTUNITY TO INVEST IN WORK EMPOWERMENT, HOMELESS PREVENTION, THE CHALLENGING OF COMMUNITY PERCEPTIONS, AND TO BE A PART OF PROVIDING OUR COMMUNITY WITH QUALITY AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE THROUGH OUR WRITERS AND VENDORS – AN INVALUABLE PART OF DENVER’S COMMUNITY. YOUR INVOLVEMENT WILL HELP HIGHLIGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING POSITIVE ACTION TO COMBAT HOMELESSNESS AND IMPOVERISHMENT. AS A SPONSOR, YOU HAVE A WAY TO REACH OUT TO THE COMMUNITY AND GIVE SOMETHING BACK AT THE SAME TIME. ANNUAL SPONSORSHIPS BENEFITS INCLUDE YOUR LOGO LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE HOMEPAGE, MONTHLY AD SPACE IN OUR PAPER, AND SPECIAL EVENT PERKS FOR YOU AND YOUR EMPLOYEES ALL YEAR LONG. IT’S A GOOD DEAL FOR A GOOD CAUSE, AND YOUR GIFT IS 100% TAX-DEDUCTIBLE! ABOVE THE FOLD: $5,000 • One complimentary full page ad in the newspaper ($1,000 value) • Table of 10 and Sponsor recognition at annual Rise and Thrive Breakfast (200 attendees) • Sponsorship recognition at our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event (200 attendees) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Above the Fold Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper GALLEY: $2,500 • One complimentary half page ad in the newspaper ($600 value) • Table of 10 and Sponsor recognition at annual Rise and Thrive Breakfast (200 attendees) • Sponsorship recognition at our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event (200 attendees) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Galley Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper HONOR BOX: $1,000 • Table of 10 and Sponsor recognition at annual Rise and Thrive Breakfast (200 attendees) • Sponsorship recognition at our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event (200 attendees) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Honor Box Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper FLY SHEET: $500 • Two complimentary tickets to our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event ($50 value) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Fly Sheet Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper ׉ 7cassandra://HAxDkVzZ1frQEhvrDAxYrkiugAcVoiHf173JqlJjvlI!6`a=Vy=!!׉E uEVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES MILE HIGH TREE Take your holidays up a notch with this free, immersive audio/visual spectacular. WHEN: Every night in Dec., 5 – 10 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Welton St & 16th St Mall. MORE INFO: denver.org/milehighholidays/tree 2ND ANNUAL APRÈS SKI HOLIDAY MARKET Inspired by a quaint, European ski village, this 2nd annual holiday market will feature a wide variety of vendors, food/drink specials, and holiday entertainment. WHEN: Dec 3-5, Dec 10-12, Dec 17-19, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. WHERE: Dairy Block Alley; 1800 Wazee COST: Free entry MORE INFO: dairyblock.com FILM ON THE ROCKS: HOLIDAY DRIVE-IN Film on the Rocks is back—this time with a holiday drive-in theme. This special presentation of films includes Gremlins, Batman Returns, Love Actually, A Christmas Story, and more. WHEN: Dec 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, various times COST: $59.50 per car and includes beverages, popcorn, and candy WHERE: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Lower South Lot 2; 18300 W Alameda Pkwy. MORE INFO: redrocksonline.com/film CHANGING HOW WE COVER HOMELESSNESS For news consumers, the way journalists cover homelessness frames our understanding of the issue, but what do members of the media understand about homelessness? In coordination with the Denver Press Club, the Denver VOICE is proud to sponsor this panel with Cara DeGette as moderator and panelists Robert Davis (Denver VOICE), Marcus Hill (Colo Springs Indy), Jeremy Jojola (9News). WHEN: Nov 17, 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. COST: $5 WHERE: Denver Press Club, 1330 Glenarm Pl. MORE INFO: denverpressclub.org/events BLACK SHEEP FRIDAYS With just the right amount of sophisticated nonsense, Black Sheep Fridays provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the museum in a whole new way. This month’s topics include rubber duckie decorating, pie tasting, and erotically themed crafts. WHEN: Dec 3, 10 at 6 p.m., Dec 17 at 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. WHERE: MCA Denver 1485 Delgany St. COST: $15 - $20 MORE INFO: mcadenver.org/events MIDDLE AGED PEOPLE SITTING IN BOXES Support local art at Denver’s beloved and wildly creative, Buntport Theater. Middle Aged People Sitting in Boxes barely needs to be described because the entire show is perfectly encapsulated in its title. This is a special 3-night fundraising event for the theater. WHEN: Dec 10 & 11, 8 p.m. and Dec 12, 3 p.m. WHERE: Buntport Theater, 717 Lipan St. COST: Tickets are name your price MORE INFO: buntport.com COURTESY OF STREETROOTS Alga Anaerobic Animal Aorta Asthma Bacteria Bile Bird Blood Capillaries Cell Cilia Class Colon Culture Diabetes DNA Ear Eggs Eye Family Fauna Fish Form Fungi Gene Gland Haploid Helix Liver Mammal Natural Nerve Ovum Peas Ph Plant Pollen RNA Saliva Skin UV Vein XX XY Yeast Zygote December 2021 DENVER VOICE 11 PUZZLE COURTESY OF STREET ROOTS, DENVER VOICE’S SISTER PAPER IN PORTLAND, OR PUZZLE COURTESY OF STREET ROOTS, DENVER VOICE’S SISTER PAPER IN PORTLAND, OR ׉ 7cassandra://NEp965PVNW4K6j-552vrC-qofXCThStLt9m95a0tLzM%l`a=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! בCט u׉׉ 7cassandra://N_NEhrAh7ASlvd-nAXGctrYNbUjdWBG2DbCac2_7UYMZU`׉ 7cassandra://j5YnHaPcdR7I7dJvHBslTUmAjrZt9GKvwgyugheJXTIp`q׉ 7cassandra://KrBP3iQtYeVXnOii-4FfDUacedB5EazEca0-Hu_54MA( `׉ 7cassandra://UgzZlafvHcLgdjGaaoidP_kuFsgm8HTSOkeD94-HqFQl͠Ta=[y=!!Ƒנa=[y=!!ȁ9ׁHhttp://DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATEׁ ׁ Ј׉EWANT TO DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT? To celebrate 25 incredible years and ensure another 25 years of even greater impact in our community, The McWethy Family Charitable Fund has generously agreed to match 100% of monthly donations through the end of 2021. With this matching gift, a contribution of $25 a month = $600 dollars a year and makes a huge difference for those we serve for years to come. Set up a monthly donation of any amount this year, and the 12 month value of your donation will be matched dollar for dollar in a one-time gift from The McWethy Family Charitable Fund — doubling your impact this year! WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR MATCHING DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE ׉ 7cassandra://KrBP3iQtYeVXnOii-4FfDUacedB5EazEca0-Hu_54MA( `a=Vy=!!׈Ea=Vy=!!a=Vy=!! ,12-2021a=!frJ«