$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE K ITCH M Motht er’s y Moth y o FOOD FROM ARTHUR INFANTE’S KITCHEN GIVES NEW IMMIGRANTS A T PAGE 4 AN UPDATE FROM DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT MARK DONOVAN DISCUSSES WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR DBI. PAGE 6 GRAND JUNCTION: BETWEEN A TENT AND A HARD PLACE: “… IT JUST FEELS LIKE WE’RE CONSISTENTLY TRYING TO PUSH PEOPLE AROUND.” PAGE 11 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 7, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 APRIL 2024 | Vol.29 Issue 4 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) y Mothe VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT WITH THE HELP OF CLARA ITCHE ITCHEN PATT, THE VOICE NOW HAS BILINGUAL MATERIALS FOR NEW VENDOR TRAINING AND ORIENTATION. PAGE 5 FROM YOUR VENDOR: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR BECAUSE APRIL IS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH, we wanted to acknowledge Clara Patt, the volunteer project manager who oversaw the translation of our marketing materials and orientation videos from English to Spanish. The final product reflects Clara’s exceptional project management skills and her ability to assemble a dedicated team of Spanish-speaking volunteers. Additional volunteers I haven’t acknowledged in a while are the copy editors, who often don’t THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who is a regular contributor to the VOICE. Several of the photos he’s taken for the VOICE have won national and international awards. He also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is an awardwinning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, the Colorado Sun, and Medium.com. JACOB RICHARDS is a long-time community organizer and writer on the western slope of Colorado. His columns have appeared across the West including The Denver Post, Salt Lake City Tribune, and The Daily Sentinel. When not working in the wilderness, Jacob is working on his project, “A People’s History of the Grand Valley,” which is an effort to research and reframe Grand Junction’s local history to include marginalized narratives and people’s movements for change. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen Jacob Richards 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 Lando Allen Giles Clasen Robert Davis David Gordon Raelene Johnson James Letempt Gabriel Pearce Jacob Richards Jerry Rosen Charles Spring BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, President Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Antonio Diaz, Treasurer Michael Burkley Cassandria Carmouche Robert Davis Muhammad Khan Nikki Lawson Cabal Yarne have too much notice or turnaround time to review articles and get them back to finalize and send to our graphic designer Hannah Bragg to lay out. Aaron Sullivan has served as a volunteer copy editor since late 2019. He takes the time to explain his suggested edits, so the contributor understands why the corrections are necessary. Our other excellent volunteer copy editor, Lanie Lee Cook, has helped out at the Denver VOICE office and several of our fundraising events since 2020. I value the work Lanie Lee and Aaron put into copy editing and am so grateful to have their help. Whatever tasks our volunteers perform, they make it possible for us to provide the training and support VOICE vendors need to succeed. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE 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 2 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE April 2024 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR JERRY ROSEN. Q A What are your hobbies? DAVID GORDON My true hobby is following the NBA, NFL, and most sports played at the professional level. I also follow some isolated college teams. I don’t think I would have called this a hobby 20 years ago, but today, with the technology and advanced stats tracking, it’s fun watching and following sports. JAMES LETEMPT I love to draw. I also like to write poems. I love to do those two things. JERRY ROSEN I like to read and to do a lot of walking. I believe walking is very relaxing. You can see quite a lot of things when you walk. GABRIEL PEARCE I love to swim, do martial arts, draw, make friends, and help others. RAELENE JOHNSON My biggest hobby is traveling because I love to go to new places and experience new things. Until I get my car up and running again, my hobby right now is just healing from chemo and being patient with everything else going on. CHARLES SPRING My hobbies are poetry, collecting old coins and zippo lighters, art and painting, collecting Garbage Pail Kids and other stuff from the ‘80s, and walking in the park or just around. I also like to hunt and hope to go hunting soon. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. April 2024 DENVER VOICE 3

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN MY MOTHER’S KITCHEN BY GILES CLASEN HELPING OTHERS IS SECOND NATURE to Arthur Infante. He can’t imagine sitting by and doing nothing while others struggle. For years, Infante would take his children to help the unhoused community. “I never saw it as a handout,” Infante said. “We would ask people what they needed, give what we had, and ask for a story in return. It was a fair exchange. The individuals may receive clothes or food, or whatever, and me and my kids would get a story.” To Infante this trade was empowering to individuals who had little to give but a lot to offer. When the most recent wave of immigrants began arriving in Denver, Infante wanted to help. He wanted to create something that served the community. First, he volunteered to bring meals to individuals and families living in hotels. The meal trains were important to help people get by. But Infante also heard people asking for self-reliance. “Do you know what these people have been through to get here? They didn’t risk their lives for handouts. They want to work and build a life here. I don’t have a lot of people asking for money. I have people asking me, ‘Do you have a job?’” Infante said. He decided the best thing he could do to help Denver’s new guests was to give them a way to feed themselves. He began volunteering at an encampment under an overpass near N. Pecos Street and I-70. Infante could see that the new immigrants, most of who are in the United States legally and seeking asylum, wanted to take care of themselves. It occurred to him that one of the best things he could do was to build a portable, tent kitchen, so they could cook for themselves. An artist by training, Infante restores antiques. He specializes in rebuilding anything old and destroyed, including a crumbled sculpture of the goddess Nike, which he resurrected. He also has brought back to life many stainedglass windows and other pieces that withered with age. There isn’t a medium that Infante hasn’t dabbled in. To build a stove, Infante turned to scrap metal left over after building his son a go-cart. He cut three holes, attached propane burners, bought some cheap pans and a canopy, and delivered his creation to the camp. It was an immediate hit. The new immigrants, who are mostly from Venezuela, Columbia, and Peru, have their own culinary history. Food is a reminder of the home they love but were forced to leave. Some volunteers brought them Mexican food, but the Venezuelans found it too spicy and not to their liking. With Infante’s kitchen, they could prepare their own food, something that tasted like home. The kitchen was being used, but it wasn’t receiving he loving care he felt it deserved. Infante found it unclean at times, and that frustrated him. He needed to take one more step to get it just right. In an attempt to hold the individuals accountable, he put a picture of his mom on the prep table. “I called it ‘My Mother’s Kitchen’ and told them she was watching over them,” Infante said. When I [displayed] a picture, that meant so much, I saw some people make the sign of the cross... and held the picture and reverence for the space. You know the idea of a place to get together and talk and eat. My mom would be happy with that and think it was beautiful.” Some of the families who use the kitchen live in camps. Others walk miles to use the kitchen and make food before returning to the hotels rented by the City of Denver as temporary housing. Infante has moved the kitchen five times, when the police or park rangers forced a camp to relocate. He understands the draw is more than food. My Mother’s Kitchen is also a place for community. “Growing up, everyone gravitated to our kitchen. Friends, family, and anyone who came to our house would often leave the living room empty and crowd into the kitchen,” Infante said. “My mom made it a place to eat and drink and feel safe with others.” ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 4 DENVER VOICE April 2024 VOLUNTEER PROFILE SPRING WISH LIST VOLUNTEER PROFILE: CLARA PATT BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. PHOTO COURTESY OF CLARA PATT TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH, the VOICE has used the April issue to spotlight those whose help has allowed us to better meet the needs of our community. This year is no exception. As we began to see more new immigrants in the community sign up to be Denver VOICE vendors, Executive Director James Kay and Program Coordinator Connie Gaitan put the call out for volunteers to help with translating our marketing materials into Spanish. When she received a volunteer application from Clara Patt, Gaitan asked if she could help us track down Spanish speakers who could dub over our existing orientation videos. Patt who speaks a little Spanish but is not fluent, reached out to friends with whom she grew up while living on the border between Texas and Mexico. Three weeks later, Patt sent Gaitan the links to the fully translated videos that included the voices of five volunteers. Describing what the project has meant to her, Patt explained that it was important to her to do something to give back to the unhoused individuals who were her neighbors while she and her husband lived in Colorado. “For the past two and a half years, we’ve been living out of our RV by choice,” said Patt, who lost her job shortly after arriving in Colorado. According to Patt, her husband’s income as a roofer made it possible for them to get by financially until he was injured on the job. “I was at such a low point then, but our unhoused neighbors were so good to me and so consistently nice that I wanted to repay their kindness.” When she first learned about the Denver VOICE from vendor Rea Brown, Patt said she wanted to volunteer her services as a professional graphic designer or any other skills she could offer. “It was a few weeks after I sent in my application that Connie reached out to see if I could help with translating the VOICE’s program marketing materials into Spanish,” said Patt. To create a transcript for each of the videos, Patt first used a translation website. Next, she contacted several of her bilingual friends to record the Spanish voiceovers. According to Patt, it took about two hours per volunteer to record their parts for the video, while she spent about 10 hours overseeing the project and editing the videos. By the time the first new immigrants signed up to be Denver VOICE vendors, the two orientation videos and promotional materials for the vending program had been RICKY LLAMAS SAM LLAMAS SERGIO NUNEZ April 2024 DENVER VOICE 5 PHOTO COURTESY OF CLARA PATT translated into Spanish. When the first vendors who spoke Spanish as their first language signed up for the vendor program, Gaitan expressed her gratitude for Patt and her crew of fellow volunteers. “Being able to sign up Spanish speakers looking for income opportunities made me so overwhelmed with joy and pride to be part of this new journey,” said Gaitan. “They all did such a tremendous job, and we wouldn’t have been able to do this without Clara’s help.” Recently, Patt her husband, and their cat “Musko” relocated their RV to Bend, Ore. While her husband has gotten a fulltime job as a lighting technician for a theatre company, Patt works as a freelance graphic designer and can be contacted for project work through her website, ClaraPatt.com. The Denver VOICE team extends its heartfelt appreciation to Clara Patt for her stellar work overseeing this project, as well as Rickly Llamas, Sam Llamas, Sofia E Lizarraga, Leonal Hernandez, and Sergio Nunez, who provided the voiceovers. ■ NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant Chapstick, sunscreen Hand warmers 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) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE

LOCAL STORY MARK DONOVAN OF THE DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT SPEAKS AT A RALLY TO SUPPORT BASIC INCOME IN 2023. CREDIT: ARMANDO GENEYRO/DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT IT’S BASIC: DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT’S MARK DONOVAN TALKS 2024 AND BEYOND BY ROBERT DAVIS IT’S BEEN A LITTLE MORE THAN 18 MONTHS since Mark Donovan launched the Denver Basic Income Project, a pilot program designed to help individuals experiencing homelessness address their basic needs, like accessing housing or medical care. Over that time, the program has delivered impressive results. People enrolled in the program reported feeling more hope about the future and less stress about their financial situation. Moreover, roughly 35% of all participants moved into housing within the first six months of the program, according to DBIP’s interim report. These successes are happening at a time when more than 30 cities, ranging from Atlanta, Georgia to Ithaca, New York, and New Orleans, Louisiana, are piloting their own basic income programs to address poverty and homelessness at the local level. More than two-thirds of the income gained from these programs has been spent on food and clothing, according to data from Stanford University’s Basic Income Lab. For comparison, less than 2% of the income has been spent on things like alcohol and drugs. “I hope that in five years, what we’re doing in Denver is happening in at least 200 cities across the country, so people can have proximity to it, so that they can see it in their own backyards,” Donovan said. Despite these successes, Donovan said there is still a lot of work to do to make basic income programs part of the mainstream. According to Donovan, there are still misconceptions about basic income, especially concerning how participants spend their money. Donovan said he also faces objections over whether the program is a good use of tax dollars. But these objections haven’t stopped Donovan or his small but mighty staff from working to expand the project. MARK DONOVAN OF THE DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT AT A STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP NEXT TO PARTICIPANT MORIAH RODRIGUEZ. CREDIT: ARMANDO GENEYRO/DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT “We’re building a playbook to share with other cities,” Donovan said. “We didn’t reinvent the wheel because we built on the successes of other programs like New Leaf and Michael Tubbs’ program in Stockton. But we want to build a playbook that shows how we got here and then support other cities as they stand up their own basic income pilots.” Denver VOICE spoke with Donovan about what he’s learned over the last year of operating the Denver Basic Income Project and where he thinks the program will go in 2024 and beyond. This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity. DENVER VOICE: DBIP has already accomplished so much. You’ve distributed nearly $7 million to more than 800 people experiencing homelessness in Denver, and those payments have been proven to reduce the number of days people spend on the streets, in hospitals, and in jail. Tell us a little about your goals for DBIP in 2024 and beyond. What else is left to do? DONOVAN: We had an amazing first year and have seen people accelerating towards safety, housing, and wellness. I’ve talked to people who said [if it weren’t for DBIP] they wouldn’t be alive at this point. Now, they’ve re-enrolled in school or they got a great job. Everyone’s path is different, but we’ve created a really strong community that has hope and optimism about the future. 6 DENVER VOICE April 2024 IN YOUR OWN WORDS What’s left to do is change people’s perceptions about basic income. A lot of people don’t understand it or don’t think it’s a good idea. So, we want to share our success stories and explain that basic income leads to safer, more thriving communities for everyone. It’s a win-win. We also want to expand our reach. Even though we’ve served more than 800 people, that’s a small sliver of the need here in Denver. We need to keep trusting and investing in people. When we do that, the results are exceptional. Are there any personal stories or experiences with participants from DBIP that stick out to you? There are numerous people [who] have told us that they are alive today or sober because of the Denver Basic Income Project and that they feel hope for the future. There was a woman who was fleeing domestic violence who applied and was put into our control group (meaning she received $50 per month). Of course, she was disappointed, but after she engaged with our service partners, she was put into a sober living home. She later came back and asked for help finding employment. Now she works at a job where she makes more money than the case manager who helped her. These kinds of stories are endless. What challenges have you run into while operating DBIP? How have you worked to overcome or solve those problems? The biggest challenge has been public perception. We haven’t had a groundswell of grassroots support and people donating to support this work. So, we have really worked hard to push back against those perceptions of poverty. The beauty of basic income is that it is simple. It’s a simple and efficient way to provide immediate relief and opportunity. We think of it as a preventative medicine for the economy, and cash as the currency of urgency. It’s a simple concept, but the difficult part is getting people to understand it, to believe in it, and to invest their tax dollars in it. Basic income is for everybody, and everybody’s lives improve when we create a more equitable and thriving economy. As you know, April is National Fair Housing Month. Can you tell us a little about how basic income programs like DBIP can improve fair housing outcomes for people in poverty or who are experiencing homelessness? Discrimination was built into our housing system, and so we built the Denver Basic Income Project through a racial equity lens. Our Black neighbors comprise about 10% of the city’s population yet account for between 20% and 25% of the people experiencing homelessness. We want to accelerate their pathways to housing. That is housing justice. Full stop. Why do you think it’s important for Denver, or any other city, to have a basic income program? We are the largest program in the country that is exploring the impact of basic income. I was just at a conference in San Francisco, and I got the sense that people across the country are watching us. Everyone is working on solutions to homelessness, and they’re spending a lot of money to do it. Are things getting better? In some places, they are, but the results haven’t materialized in a lot of other places. We’re also not investing in the programs that work the best. So, it’s important for Denver to invest in basic income because it works and we need to provide immediate relief for people who are suffering and sleeping on the streets. We’re trying to show the country what happens when you believe in people and invest in them. ■ LEAVE AND BECOME YOU AN ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN, VOICE VENDOR April 2024 DENVER VOICE 7

SPECIAL FEATURE NEW IMMIGRANTS ADAPT TO SHIFTING DENVER LANDSCAPE BY GILES CLASEN VOICE contributor Giles Clasen shares his latest photo essay on Denver’s new immigrant community. A WOMAN COOKS RICE AT AN IMMIGRANT ENCAMPMENT NEAR DOWNTOWN DENVER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN IMMIGRANT FAMILIES WALK TO THEIR ENCAMPMENT NEAR DIA. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 8 DENVER VOICE April 2024 SPECIAL FEATURE MARTHA PERDOMO PREPARES DINNER WITH HENRRI ALVAREZ AND VALENTINA PERDOMO, WHO ARE LIVING IN THEIR CAR, FOR NOW. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CARMEN ABREU HAS WORRIED ABOUT HOW SHE WOULD HOUSE HER FAMILY, ONCE EVICTED FROM THEIR CITY-FUNDED HOTEL. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN ONE OF DENVER’S NEW GUESTS TRAVELED THOUSANDS OF MILES AND THROUGH 8 COUNTRIES BEFORE ARRIVING IN DENVER TO BUILD A NEW LIFE FOR HER AND HER FAMILY. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN “WE HAVE BROUGHT ON NON-PROFIT PARTNERS who have very successfully case managed and navigated those folks to connect them to work, to housing, to opportunity so we have not seen a significant increase of folks who ended up on the street,” Mayor Mike Johnston said in a press conference on Feb 28, 2024, announcing the closure of hotels used as temporary housing for the new immigrant community. “I heard the city say that [immigrants aren’t becoming homeless after being released from hotels]. It’s funny because every single day we have to add new tents to our encampment for migrants released from hotels,” said Kezia Lozano, who works with a Spanish-speaking BIPOC group called the Migrant Care Coalition that is actively supporting homeless immigrant encampments. Continued on page 10 JEAN CARLOS MONTILLA AND MARIA ANGEL WERE SET TO BE EVICTED FROM A HOTEL FUNDED BY THE CITY OF DENVER ON MARCH 9, 2024. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN April 2024 DENVER VOICE 9

SPECIAL FEATURE Continued from page 9 “The reality is that these people lack citizenship and work permits. They don’t have the paperwork to get apartments or jobs here in the city, conventionally. So, they’re relying on people doing things under the table for them. This leaves people vulnerable to exploitation,” Kezia Lozano said. “I am here with my son and husband to give my son a better future. Thank God Almighty for allowing me to be here in Denver. Above all I am grateful to the Mayor and Governor for providing for our expenses and giving us a roof over our head,” said Maria Angel, a Venezuelan who was able to secure a 42-day stay at a northeast Denver hotel before being evicted on March 9, 2024. Angel and her spouse have not been able to find work and were unsure where they would go after being released from the hotel. ■ ELIS APONTE, LOUIS DANIEL, CARMEN MUJICA, AND RICHAR RODRIGUEZ KEEP WARM WITH A PROPANE CAMP STOVE AT AN IMMIGRANT ENCAMPMENT. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN DANNYERLIS GUZMAN LAYS IN HER TENT. GUZMAN AND HER FAMILY SPENT TWO NIGHTS IN A TENT AFTER BEING EVICTED FROM A CITY HOTEL. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN MOST IMMIGRANTS LIVING IN TENTS WENT TO SHELTERS DURING THE MAJOR MARCH SNOWSTORM. SOME REFUSED TO LEAVE THEIR CAMPSITE NEAR ELITCH GARDENS FOR FEAR THE CAMP WOULD BE DISMANTLED. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 10 DENVER VOICE April 2024 LOCAL STORY BRUSH REMOVAL NEAR BROADWAY BRIDGE, FEB. 20, 2024. CREDIT: COURTESY OF CHARLES QUIMBY. FENCE GOING UP AT EMERSON PARK, FEB. 26, 2024. CREDIT: JACOB RICHARDS GRAND JUNCTION: BETWEEN A TENT AND A HARD PLACE BY JACOB RICHARDS “ENDING HOMELESSNESS is something everyone can agree on,” said Tom Gomez, currently in transitional housing. “The problem is nobody agrees on how to make that happen.” Grand Junction is the largest city on Colorado’s western slope. With a population of 65,000, Grand Junction also boasts the highest rate of people experiencing homelessness of any city in Colorado, according to the Common Sense Institute. The city has no easy answers, as the community grapples with an estimated 2300 people experiencing homelessness. In the early morning of Feb. 26, contractors began fencing off Emerson Park near downtown Grand Junction. The park is being developed into a “destination skate park.” This closure was not a surprise, unlike the indefinite closure of Whitman Park in September. The park’s closure means that both downtown public parks are closed to the public. “We didn’t even want to be in this park,” said Jade, while repacking her belongings on the sidewalk across the street from Emerson Park. “We liked Whitman because there wasn’t a playground. We don’t want to bother families.” Jade wasn’t sure where she would relocate to. “They don’t want us to be anywhere but their tents,” she said about the recently opened Resource Center, a city-funded project between United Way of Mesa County and Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley. “But where are we supposed to sleep?” Jade produced three trespassing tickets she had received since December, including one for felony trespass. “They are clearing out all the brush below Broadway Bridge; where are all those people going to go?” The Resource Center was “intended to replace and to improve the options and to give that alternative for somebody who’s spending their day times in the park.” said Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout. But outside of a few weekly events, like Mutual Aid Partners’ Distro Day and Solidarity Not Charity’s (SNC) “Feed,” the sprawling Center is largely underutilized. SNC is a grassroots non-profit that has fed people in parks since 2008, but the organization now feeds folks at the Resource Center. “We are excited to work with the Resource Center and explore its possibilities,” said SNC volunteer David Stuart. “I am so glad I found this place,” said Brandon James Miller. “It’s a lifesaver.” Miller, who is new to the area, said the Resource Center was able to direct him to local resources, including a shelter bed. On Feb. 21, the Grand Junction City Council voted down proposed park rule changes, which included language based on rules passed in Denver and other front range cities that banned setting up tents or structures in public parks. “As soon as we have a place for them to go, you know, I’ll probably support this,” said Grand Junction City Councilmember Scott Beilfuss “Why now?” asked Councilman Jason Nguyen. “If I was sitting as a lay person in the city, with the closure of Whitman, with what’s happening at Emerson—it just feels like we’re consistently on a regular basis trying to push people around,” he said. The “tent ban” was defeated in a 5-2 vote. A surprise to many, including Mayor Stout and Mayor Pro Tem Abe Herman, the only votes in favor of the ban. “We literally just stood up a Resource Center… for people to have an alternative, somewhere they can go… where they can be safe, where they can rest during the day,” said Mayor Stout. “Why did we just do this if that is not meant to be an alternative?” ■ PROTEST SIGN ATTACHED TO THE FENCE AFTER THE CLOSURE OF WHITMAN PARK, SEPT. 14, 2023. CREDIT: COURTESY OF NICOLE INMAN. April 2024 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS WHAT’S NEXT? BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR AS MOST OF YOU KNOW, I was in a car accident in February. When it happened, my face hit the airbag, and my car was totaled. (Oh by the way, when the wreck happened, I was on my way to my second chemo treatment.) My adrenaline kicked in, and 1½ hours after the crash, I was getting my treatment. When I went back for my third chemo, I found out that people at the center where I get my treatments had been talking about me. They said they couldn’t believe how strong I was. They couldn’t believe that I was able to walk that well as I went in for my second chemo. No one, not even my doctor, could believe I was able to make that second appointment so quickly after the accident. One minute, I thought, “I got this,” and then, after my third chemo treatment, I discovered I was experiencing negative side effects of the chemo – neuropathy in my left hand, which made it numb, and a blood clot in my right hand. I’m not used to not using my hands. I had to go to the hospital for antibiotics, which they gave me through an IV drip, followed by a week of taking antibiotics at home. (If I’d known about this side effect, I’m not sure I would have started chemo, but it’s too late to be sorry. I just have to deal with it.) Losing my car was hard enough, but my new phone was also destroyed in the wreck, and I had to pay $100 to replace it. I also found out I had to pay $900 to get my belongings out of my car. I didn’t have the money, so I lost everything that was in there. As all of this was going on, I discovered there was a water leak somewhere in my hot water tank. I also found out that my daughter had to have surgery, and even though she doesn’t live far from me, I wasn’t able to be with her because I had no car. Knowing my baby was going through such a painful experience and that I could not be with her hurt. At least she knows I would have been there if I could. Living in the country, where there are no buses or other transportation is hard. Also, because I don’t have a car, I am not able to go out and sell the Denver VOICE. You can’t have anything if you don’t have money, but this is another thing I have to accept and learn to deal with. Another reason I cannot go out is because I am going through chemo. Cancer can make you lonely, but you have to be careful and not be around people. I love talking to people, lifting them up, and putting smiles on their faces, but I’m doing the best I can to keep a smile on my own face. It’s hard on cancer patients when we feel so alone. I can at least say I love myself, so being alone is okay. At least today it is. I have a car again, and I’ll be happy when I can drive it, but first, my right hand has to heal because the car is a manual, and you can’t shift gears with a hand that is numb or swollen. As I write this, I have one more chemo treatment to go, but I don’t know what will happen after that. In mid-April, I will have surgery for my other medical issue, so more time has to go by without me being able to work, and I’ll have to go through too many months without money to help me get through this. Good thing I don’t need much to get me by. Worrying over all of the things that are happening to me will not change anything. All I know is that I will deal with it. I have no other choice. I am grateful for the few friends I have. When you have been alone and without friends, once you get good friends, you make sure you don’t ask much from them, so they don’t feel you are using them. I guess being a giver makes it hard RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: KAREN BEEMAN to receive, at least it is for me because I’m not used to it. I’m still working on knowing I am worth it. If you are reading this and know anyone going through cancer, please check up on them or call them. Ask if there’s anything you can do for them. Even a simple phone call lets them know they are not forgotten. In the meantime, I am grateful for the support so many of you have given me. Please continue keeping me in your prayers. I will keep on fighting. ■ BUILDING A FUTURE BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR OKAY, TODAY, I WANT TO PUT MY THOUGHTS ONTO PAPER. I’ve got to put my plans on paper because I don’t want to fail at the stuff I want to do. I want to tell you who I am. My name is Lando. I am a broken man. I feel like my life has been taken from me, one way or another. I thought I would have gone crazy by now, but it seems like I still got some fight in me. I’ve already told y’all that I want to go to a warm climate, and I mean it. I’ve also told people that I want to build a houseboat. I’ve got to start working on that. Right now, I feel like I need to take my time. There is the LANDO ALLEN. CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL life I want to live, so, I’ve got to save some money for that. I’ve been homeless for 20 years off and on. It’s not because I drink or was on drugs. I don’t do any of those things. A lady gave me some advice a long time ago. She told me to quit looking for a girlfriend and to stay focused on my homeless problem. I didn’t listen. I believed that two people that get together could make each other’s lives better. I was wrong. I thought people who are on the streets were trying to make it. I’m not saying that everybody on the streets is trying to get off the streets. I’m just talking about a few. Sometimes, I wonder what these girls [living on the streets] are thinking. Me! I would be grateful if somebody who is [also trying to get their life together] came into my life. Building a future is something I take seriously. I’ve got to get a new career going. I’m already trying to sell my paintings, and I am starting to do music again. I was in a story on 9News that featured the Denver VOICE and my paintings. I also have a website (lando-paints. squaresite) and have sold 10 paintings already, but I know I’ve got to work harder. I’ve also got to start working on my houseboat. I watch people get old and try to work. I don’t want to be that guy working when I get too old. I still believe in love, but I’ve got to be more careful about who I meet. I want a future when [love] comes into my life. ■ 12 DENVER VOICE April 2024 EVENTS WHEN: Apr 4, 11, 18, and 25, 6 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. COST: $10 in advance; $11 at the door WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. INFO: risecomedy.com WOMEN+FILM FESTIVAL Women+Film showcases documentaries, narratives, and short films celebrating the best in women-centric programming, both by and about women. These thought-provoking stories from around the world are sure to inspire all audiences. WHEN: Apr 10 – Apr 14, times vary. COST: Both individual tickets and festival passes are available. WHERE: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave. INFO: denverfilm.org ACROSS SOUND BATH - SOUND HEALING THERAPY Whether you’re seeking deep relaxation, stress relief, or a profound spiritual experience, this free event offers a unique opportunity for healing and transformation. WHEN: Apr 16, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton St. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events PAPER FASHION SHOW Designers create fashions from 90% paper. These fashions are showcased at their grand runway show and voted on by a panel of judges. Prepare to be amazed! WHEN: Apr 18, 5:30 p.m. COST: Tickets start at $35. WHERE: Sports Castle, 1000 Broadway INFO: paperfashionshow.com YOGA + A CONE Try something different for your next happy hour! Skylines Yoga hosts an all-levels yoga class followed by a scoop of Little Man’s signature ice-cream at their West Colfax location. Please bring a yoga mat and water. WHEN: Apr 29, 5:45 p.m. COST: $17, which includes a single scoop after class. WHERE: Little Man Ice Cream Factory, 4411 W Colfax Ave. INFO: skylinesyoga.com Across 1. Some computers 5. Salon supply 9. Astronaut’s insignia 13. “Sometimes you feel like ___, sometimes you don’t” 14. Great Salt Lake’s state 15. Sub-Saharan desert after which a country is named 16. Bear winter like bears 18. Ancient market 19. Author Zola 20. Milliner 22. Puts in a different category than before 25. ___ nitrite (angina treatment) 26. Sports arenas 30. It comes after “uno” 33. Christmas song 36. Rubber hub in Ohio 37. Like March Madness 41. Part of an act 42. Stratagem 43. Big mouth 44. Stuck with, as a 42-Across 46. They rarely come from losing teams 49. Residence for people coming out of prison or rehab 55. Car thief, maybe 58. ‘When ___ said and done” 59. “...___, mean, fightin’ machine!” 60. Some downloaded ditties 63. Lloyd Center and its ilk 64. Mounted on 65. Icicle site 66. Word seg. 67. Actress Olin 68. Odd couple? DOWN 1. “Politically Incorrect” host 2. Genre of “Dragon Ball Z” and “Revolutionary Girl Utena” 3. Like some feet 4. Name Marlon Brando shouts repeatedly in a Tennessee Williams film adaptation 5. Word after “glue” or “staple” 6. Pilot’s announcement, for short 7. Punjabi policeman’s club 8. Paper unit 9. Japanese port city 10. In a frenzy 11. “Your majesty” 12. What rabbis and priests walk into, in a common joke setup 15. Convention handout 17. Paper unit 21. Carol contraction 23. In ___ (harmonious) 24. Fore-and-aftrigged vessel 27. Apothecary’s weight 28. Smidgen 29. From the beginning 30. Frisbee 31. Fairy tale opener 32. Big first for a baby 34. Building add-on 35. South American animal 38. Captivate 39. Preserves 40. A deadly sin 45. Getting on in years 47. Excellent, in 90s slang 48. Performed alone 50. Not domesticated 51. Put pen to paper 52. Armbones 53. It won’t hold water 54. Pluralizers 55. Photocopier problems 56. Skin care brand 57. Scream 61. Prefix with profit 62. 3.0, e.g. COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES INTRO TO IMPROV: DROP-IN CLASS Want to see if improv comedy is right for you? This drop-in class will let you take RISE Comedy’s improv classes for a test drive, in a safe, supportive, and fun environment! All levels are welcome. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 April 2024 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Anonymous Individual Donor Matt and Nikki Seashore Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Cisco Francis Trainer and Trainer Family J. Albrecht Designs Master Goldsmith $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Laurie Duncan and Duncan-Mcwethy Foundation Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Alexander Seavall Frederic K Conover Trust The Christian Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foundation Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Envestnet $1,000-$4,999 Christopher Boulanger Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Joshua Kauer Walker Family Foundation Whole Foods Foundation Michael Dino Alex Salva Signs By Tomorrow Rose Community Foundation Russell Peterson Donald Weaver Chris and Susan Pappas Julia and David Watson Gaspar Terrana SEI Giving Fund Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Megan Arellano Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver Mathew Rezek The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Elsbeth Williams KO Law Firm Graham Davis Peter Iannuzzi $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson Sheryl Parker Ruth Henderson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Craig Solomon Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity KL&A Engineers and Builders 14 DENVER VOICE April 2024 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, VETERAN SUPPORT COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ALANON FAMILY GROUPS: al-anon.org; Find a meeting: al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/find-an-al-anon-meeting ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: aa.org; Colorado Service Centers; daccaa.org/central-office/other-central-offices DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/ treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F 9am-12pm: harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins 303-296-1767; Dental 303-296-4873; M-F 8am-2pm LIVE ANOTHER DAY: 877-596-6866; Equal access to life-saving mental health and substance abuse resources; 24/7 helpline: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepc-connection.org; viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; 988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; 1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic Hours: 7am-4pm M/T/Th/F; 9am-6pm Wed; coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: Helpline 888-493-4670; detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ URBAN PEAKS REHAB: 490 Lafayette St., #104; 303-599-5131; Medication management and therapy center specializing in opiate addiction; M, T, Th – 9am-12pm, 1 pm-4pm, W – 9am-12pm, 1 pm-7pm; urbanpeaksrehab.com U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); thehotline.org CAREER SERVICES BAYAUD ENTERPRISES CW-STEP: (Colorado Works - Subsidized training and employment program); 333 W. Bayaud Ave.; 303-830-6885; Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm; Provides re-entry to the workforce for individuals with TANF eligibility; info@bayaudenterprises.org COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER: Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway; 720-865-1706; M & T - 10am-8pm; Wed., Th &F - 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, WIFI, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments; denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER: Denver Dept of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd.; M-F 7:30am-4:30pm; Employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé prep, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc.; careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center WORKNOW: 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITE: 212-461-4401 truecolorsunited.org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, Wed.-Fri.; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.: Aurora 303-399-8020: va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: Veterans Disability Calculator veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE: 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412 Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK: 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours M-F 8-11am urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; sunshinebehavioralhealth.com TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 3080 Broadway, Boulder; 303-447-1207, 303-447-1207; For ages 12-24; Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services; M-Sun, 12:30-5pm; tgthr.org April 2024 DENVER VOICE 15 URBAN PEAK: 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; urbanpeak.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777;; Helps with employment, IDs, birth certs, mail services and lockers; M-Th - 10am-2pm; citysquare.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F - 7am-1pm; Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc.; thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc.; M, W, Th, F - 8:30am-5pm, T - 8:30am-1:30pm; tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 E. Colfax; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harmreduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; M-F - 9am-12pm; harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Help with lost IDs and birth certificates; holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM: 1555 Race St.; 303-832-3354; For men and women with HIV; M-F 8am-4pm LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; Day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services; homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, wifi; M-F 7a-5:30p; odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St; 303-297-1576; 6am-6pm daily; Storage for one bag (when space is available); Satellite Clinic hours- M, T, Th. F - 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm; sfcdenver.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee M-F. 8:30am; denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:45-12:15; mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F only: 7am-1pm. 8am breakfast, 11am lunch; havenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY: Food service on second and fourth Thursdays; feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS: Sun. 4 p.m.; 22nd St. Stout St (near Mercury Café); Instagram: @denverfoodnotbombs HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH: 29th and Milwaukee St.; Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm; jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY: 126 W. 2nd Ave.; 303-722-8781 Dinner at 4pm on Tues; Also offers a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available; stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. (Auraria Campus), 11am 7 days/week; food/coffee; stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm; Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon.; saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; soallmayeat.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER: 608 26th St., Thurs dinners, 6pm-7pm; lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St.; breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun.; food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetrofoodnutrition-themission DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE FEEDING THE COMMUNITY WITH ITS 200TH BUILD, DUG CONTINUES TO HELP COMMUNITIES GROW AND SHARE FOOD. PAGE 6 COLORADO NONPROFITS EXPAND SELFSUFFICIENCY BENEFITS MERCY HOUSING PARTNERS WITH COMPASS WORKING CAPITAL TO ADMINISTER FAMILY SELFSUFFICIENCY PROGRAM. PAGE 5 FREEDOM FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: WOMAN WRITES ABOUT ESCAPING FROM HER ABUSIVE MARRIAGE OF 29 YEARS. PAGE 8 NEW MIGRANTS REMAIN HOPEFUL DESPITE CHALLENGES DENVER VOICE CONTRIBUTOR GILES CLASEN DOCUMENTS HIS INTERACTIONS WITH NEW IMMIGRANTS. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 10, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MARCH 2024 | Vol.29 Issue 3 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: PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR IT SEEMS I WAS JUST WISHING FOLKS A HAPPY NEW YEAR, and now, I am writing this column that will wrap up the first quarter of 2024. That’s probably why I appreciate the twopart question Raelene Johnson suggested for this month’s Ask a Vendor, “How is your 2024 going so far? What is something you’re hoping for between now and the end of the year?” For those who set New Year’s seem so resolutions, those goals possible early in the year, but once everything is in motion, it can be difficult to keep up with goals for better health, a more positive outlook on life, or taking up hobbies — especially when we didn’t have much time for these goals before we set them. To anyone who remains committed to meeting their resolutions for 2024, congratulations! To folks who haven’t been able to follow through on their resolutions, give yourself a break. Maybe you can set an easier goal to meet over the remainder of the year. Speaking of Raelene Johnson, if you’ve read the series of Self talks she’s written over the past few years, you’re familiar with her words of encouragement. Based on overcoming drug addiction, finding stable housing, and discovering that her relationship with God and her Self make a difference in how she approaches life, Raelene is an inspiration. As you will read in her latest update, 2024 did not begin well for Raelene. Not only did her rent go up significantly, but she was diagnosed with cancer. She also recently learned that a separate medical issue required surgery, which would interrupt her chemo treatments. Add to that, she totaled her car in early February. Despite these setbacks, Raelene remains hopeful. We miss seeing her at the office, and no doubt, her regular customers miss seeing her vend on the Pearl Street Mall, but until she can return to vending, she will stay in touch through her updates. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, the Colorado Sun, and Medium.com. GRACE THORBURN is a journalism student at the University of Colorado Boulder. She hopes that her writing will make a difference in the community by covering social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, homelessness, and racial equity. DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen 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. 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 2 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. WRITERS Lando Allen Giles Clasen Robert Davis Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen Grace Thorburn BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, President Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Antonio Diaz, Treasurer Michael Burkley Cassandria Carmouche Robert Davis Nikki Lawson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 2 DENVER VOICE March 2024 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q A How is your 2024 going so far? What is something you’re hoping for between now and the end of the year? LANDO ALLEN The beginning of the year has been a nightmare for me. My camper got towed. I tried to get a painting sold but didn’t. I wanted to get some fliers done on my paintings, and I failed at that. I was doing too much. I was working for a friend who cheated me out of money, and the sad thing about it is he knew about all of the stuff I was going through. People! I don’t want to play the victim. My main goal is to get things on track, like doing my music, getting more and better paintings done, and moving out of state. I already did one thing. I bought a camper, and this time, I’m going to pay for parking and not make the same mistake [I did with my old camper]. I will need to finish the rest of the goals I set for this year. RAELENE JOHNSON The first half of the year is going to be dealing with surgery and cancer. In the second half of the year, I hope to have nothing but happiness and good health! JERRY ROSEN 2024 is going very well for me, as I’m accomplishing some of my goals. I have received some miracles so far with finances and a few other things. I hope for better health and better things for the coming year. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. March 2024 DENVER VOICE 3

NATIONAL STORY use algorithms to judge whether you are a beer person or a wine person to send you targeted offers. Every online payment transaction is assessed by an AI in real time to decide whether it could be fraudulent. If you’ve ever tried to buy something and ended up triggering an additional security measure – be it a password prompt or request for authentication on a mobile app – your bank’s AI was judging your attempted transaction as abnormal or suspect. Our research shows that abundant AI capacity is available to make judgments on whether people’s behavior is deviant or abnormal. To return to our opening example, in a world where early retirement is not the norm, an early retiree has the scales tipped against them. Such social sorting, carried out by AI-based judgments, could be interpreted as a latent or soft form of majoritarian gerrymandering. Traditional gerrymandering is the unethical practice of redrawing electoral district boundaries to skew electoral outcomes. AI-based social sorting could disenfranchise people for behaving in a way that deviates from the majority. The patterns in the Wisconsin case should have us concerned that voters from ethnic minority backgrounds were systematically being classified as deviating from cultural norms. WHO GETS A VOTE? In an ideal world, the electoral roll would include all eligible voters and exclude all ineligible voters. Clean voter lists are vital for democracy. Having ineligible voters lurking on lists opens the PHOTO COURTESY OF RED DOT HOW AI COULD DISENFRANCHISE VOTERS BY DEEPAK PADMANABHAN, MUIRIS MACCARTHAIGH, AND STANLEY SIMOES IMAGINE: THE YEAR IS 2029. You have been living at the same address for a decade. The postman, who knows you well, smiles as he walks to your door and hands you a bunch of letters. As you sift through them, one card grabs your attention. It says: “Let us know if you are still here.” It’s an election year and the card from the electoral office is asking you to confirm that you are still a resident at the same address. It has a deadline, and you may be purged from the voter list if you don’t respond to it. You read about the government using AI to detect and eliminate electoral fraud through selective querying. Is it the AI pointing fingers at you? A quick check reveals that your neighbors haven’t received any such cards. You feel singled out and insecure. Why have you been asked to prove that you live where you’ve lived for so long? Let’s look under the hood. You received the card because election officials had deployed an AI system that can triangulate evidence to estimate why some voters should be contacted to check whether they are still residents at their address. It profiles voters based on whether they display the behavior of a “typical” resident. In this case, you had taken early retirement and not filed tax returns in the past few years, and you had been on holiday during the previous election in 2024. These actions led the AI to conclude that you could be lingering on the electoral list illegitimately and triggered the system to contact you. This fictional story is more plausible than you might think. In 2017 and 2018, more than 340,000 Wisconsin residents received a letter asking them to confirm if they needed to remain on the voter list. This was at the behest of a US-wide organization called Eric, which had classified these voters as “movers” – those who may have ceased to be residents. Eric used data on voting history to identify movers – but also administrative data such as driving license and post office records. Eric may not have used any sophisticated AI, but the logic it employed is very much the kind of logic that an AI would be expected to apply, only on a much larger scale. The approach seemed highly effective. Only 2% of people responded, suggesting that the vast majority of the people contacted were indeed movers. However, research later showed systematic demographic patterns among Eric’s errors. The people erroneously identified as movers (who ended up showing up to vote) were far more likely to be from ethnic minorities. AI AND “MAJORITARIAN GERRYMANDERING” AI algorithms are used in a variety of real-world settings to make judgments on human users. Supermarkets routinely possibility for spurious voting, skewing the result and damaging electoral integrity. On the other hand, leaving eligible voters off a list disenfranchises them and could result in election results that don’t reflect the true will of the people. Ensuring access to the franchise to every eligible voter is therefore very important, and efforts towards clean voter lists need to spread their focus reasonably between integrity and access. The question, therefore, becomes whether AI is capable of doing this. As it stands today, AI is fundamentally a datadriven technology – one that is adept at looking at existing data and identifying regularities or irregularities. It is much better equipped to spot issues with existing data than to identify instances of missing data. That means that it is good at identifying people who may have moved from their registered address, but not good at identifying new residents who have not registered to vote. In a world of AI-driven electoral cleansing, you are much more likely to receive a “Are you still here?” card than your new neighbor is likely to receive a “Have you considered registering to vote?” card. What this means for using AI to clean up voter lists is stark. It risks skewing the balance towards checking for integrity and away from enabling access. Integrity-focused efforts in essence involve pointing fingers at people and putting the onus on them to confirm that they are legitimate voters. Access-focused efforts are like a welcoming pat on the back – an invitation to be part of the political process. Even if widespread disenfranchisement doesn’t happen, states still risk undermining trust in elections by using AI on a larger scale. It could lead voters to feel that electoral offices are obsessively oriented towards fault-finding and much less interested in democratic inclusion. And at a time when trust in elections is needed more than ever, that perception could be just as damaging as actually cutting people from electoral rolls. ■ Courtesy of The Conversation / INSP.ngo 4 DENVER VOICE March 2024 LOCAL STORY SPRING WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. CREDIT: SIGMUND ON UNSPLASH COLORADO NONPROFITS EXPAND SELF-SUFFICIENCY BENEFITS AS NEED GROWS BY ROBERT DAVIS RESIDENTS AT THREE APARTMENT COMPLEXES with subsidized housing options for people exiting homelessness and those with Section 8 housing vouchers are now able to access additional self-sufficiency benefits just as a majority of renters in the Denver metro area are struggling to afford rent. In early February, Mercy Housing Mountain Plains, a nonprofit that offers affordable housing at 17 properties in Colorado, and the national nonprofit Compass Working Capital entered into a partnership to administer the federal Family Self-Sufficiency program. FSS helps connect those with housing vouchers and public housing residents with employment opportunities that enable them to “achieve economic independence and reduce dependence on welfare assistance and rental subsidies,” according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The benefits will be available for residents of the Decatur Place Apartments at 115 Decatur St. in Denver, the Clare Gardens at 2626 Osceola St. in Denver, and the Holly Park Apartments at 5524 East 60th Ave. in Commerce City. All of the apartment complexes are owned and operated by Mercy Housing. “Through the efforts of our Resident Services teams and with the support of Compass Working Capital, our financial services programming is helping to meet residents where they are in their financial journeys and allowing them to build a solid financial foundation,” Mercy Housing Mountain Plains Resident Shelly Marquez said in a press release. The new partnership was forged at a time when data from Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies found that more than 51% of renters in the metro Denver area are “cost-burdened,” meaning they pay at least 30% of their monthly income on rent and utilities. One out of four renters in metro Denver were also described as being “severely cost-burdened” because they pay at least 50% of their income on housing costs. Denver’s median rent for an apartment was more than $1,700 per month as of January 2024, according to ApartmentList.com. This means that renters must earn a minimum annual salary of $68,000—or about $32.69 per hour—to avoid being cost-burdened. However, there are relatively few jobs in the metro area that pay enough for renter households to comfortably afford housing. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the metro area’s median hourly wage is $32.09, which is 15% above the national average of $28.01. But nearly two-thirds of jobs available in the metro area pay less than the average hourly wage and the jobs that do pay enough require specialized education and licensure like software engineering, architecture, and legal professions. Markita Morris-Louis, the chief executive of Compass Working Capital said state data suggests there are about 28,000 people in Colorado who are receiving rental assistance and qualify to receive additional FSS benefits. However, only 800 people participate each year, she said. Morris-Lewis added that the partnership between Compass Working Capital and Mercy Housing Mountain Plains could be a “game changer” for expanding FSS access in Colorado going forward. ■ @DenverVOICE NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant Chapstick, sunscreen Hand warmers 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) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! March 2024 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA FOR 40 YEARS, DUG HAS HELPED COMMUNITIES GROW AND SHARE FOOD BY GRACE THORBURN BUILDING A GARDEN PLOT FROM THE GROUND UP IN ONE DAY is no easy feat. Fortunately, the community members who showed up to Denver Urban Garden’s 200th plot build were willing to get their hands dirty. DUG, a 40-year-old nonprofit, built its 200th garden at 48th Avenue & Julian Street in Denver on October 13, 2023. Volunteers at the build included DUG community members, leadership from the Denver Parks and Recreation Department, and dedicated volunteers from Love, Tito’s, the vodka brand — who also sponsored the event with food drinks, and music for volunteers. As the largest independent network of food-producing gardens in the United States, DUG’s reinspiring communities to grow and share food. All of DUG’s gardens are community-run. Their mission is to provide access, resources, and skills for communities to grow food in regenerative urban green spaces. According to a 2022 survey, 81% of the food that was harvested by DUG gardeners was donated or shared with others. PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA 6 DENVER VOICE March 2024 COMMUNITY PROFILE Forty-four new plots were built in 2022, which allowed space for 176 new community gardens. Come spring, 20 plots at the 48th & Julian community garden can be utilized for fresh produce. The plot where DUG’s most recent garden was built is city-owned land that had originally been part of Rocky Mountain Lake Park. It was vacant for about 60 yeaars, due to construction along I-70, which separated the land from the park. “One of the amazing benefits of our partnership that we have with Denver Urban Gardens is the fact that we identify opportunities,” said Chief of Staff at Denver Parks and Recreation Mark Bernstein. “We collectively have that vision for how we can take underutilized spaces like this parcel here and sort of reimagine it to have a much greater purpose that will serve the community.” The Pecos Community Garden was birthed by four Hmong families who immigrated to the United States in the late 1970s and was established as DUG’s first garden in 1978. These families have stuck together since the beginning to maintain the garden as a source of fresh food and to hold onto the ageold tradition of bonding with each other. On May 3, 2023, when the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murphy released an advisory calling attention to the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and the lack of connection in the U.S., DUG’s work became more important than ever. Even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately half of U.S. adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. According to Dr. Murphy, loneliness increases our risk of mental health challenges and premature death, amplifying the need for community gardens to regenerate the land and increase community engagement and food access. Community gardens that take the place of grass “capture way more carbon, require a lot less water, and the temperature when you have dense plantings like this [is decreased], so the heat island effect is reduced, and the biodiversity gets increased,” said Linda Appel Lipsius, DUG’s CEO. “There are so many climate benefits, and when you take these times the 200 gardens we have, that’s some serious acreage.” The heat island effect refers to urbanized areas that experience higher temperatures than other outlying areas. DUG supports its gardens in a variety of ways, mainly by providing approved access to land where communities can come together to grow food and by coordinating volunteer groups to help maintain the gardens. “Increasingly, there are fewer opportunities for you to interact with your neighbor, and your neighbor is maybe a different age, PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA background, or socioeconomic status,” said Lipsius. “In these gardens, people come together who wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to work together, and it’s a thing of beauty. We [DUG] think that community is a lost art or skill, and these [urban community gardens] help bring them back.” “Having more outdoor space instead of just an open lot is awesome,” said Carl Keating, a volunteer at DUG’s 200th garden build, who said he enjoys helping with a community movement that’s fostering more engagement in the community. “People might just figure out they have a green thumb.” ■ To apply for a plot at 48th & Julian in Denver, email i48thandJuliancommunitygarden@dug.org FOOD FORESTS TO ADDRESS FOOD DESERTS ADJACENT TO THE RECENTLY BUILT COMMUNITY GARDEN is DUG’s 19th food forest in the metro Denver area. The freshly planted trees that make up this food forest at 48th Avenue and Julian Street were planted in September as a regenerative food source for the community. So, what are food forests and how do they address food deserts? Food deserts are exactly what they sound like — places where affordable produce is hard to come by. The Etkin Family Food Forest Initiative was launched in the spring of 2022 to plant accessible food forests in small and underutilized areas in both public spaces as well as alongside community gardens. This initiative is one of many DUG programs that benefit residents in underserved communities. DUG’s food forests are shade-producing and are planted with water-conscious dryland techniques and are thus built to thrive in a changing climate. Food forests usually are made up of seven layers: canopy/tall trees, understory, shrub, herb, groundcover, root, and vertical climber. Each food forest in Denver is maintained by at least two “Tree Keepers” who will ensure the survival and establishment of these trees and plants. ■ PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MEDIA March 2024 DENVER VOICE 7

INTERNATIONAL STORY Suddenly, a muddled thought flashed through my mind: “My vaccinations aren’t valid in Germany. What now?” I stood at the Frankfurt railway station with only €20 in my pocket. I didn’t see anywhere to warm up until the train left. The station’s charitable mission was the only place I could go. The young woman at my table gave me a piece of chocolate cake. I felt like a failure then, just like everyone who walks through those doors. And that’s exactly why I was so grateful to be there. I knew that I had exchanged the false security with my violent husband for freedom – but it didn’t seem to offer me any support. Loneliness, emotional turmoil, feelings of guilt towards the children who themselves had suffered so much from his violence, feelings of guilt towards my entire family. Why did it take so long to open my eyes? And at the same time, I felt an almost inexplicable yearning to be with him, to go back to the old cycle of violence and regret. PHOTO COURTESY OF AIDA L ON UNSPLASH FREEDOM FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: “HOW COULD I LOSE MYSELF LIKE THAT?” BY CHRISTIANE ROSENMUTH I WANTED TO EMIGRATE – to spend my twilight years in my husband’s home country, which had become my second home over the course of our 30 years together. But when the time came, we only managed eight months. Then we separated, at long last. For almost 29 years, our marriage was defined by physical and psychological violence and my husband’s narcissism. I used to be a teacher. Ever since I was signed off from therapy and recovered from an operation on my hip, I have been supporting disabled people and studying social work. I want to help children and young people learn to love themselves, acknowledge their them seriously. feelings, and take WE WERE HITTING EACH OTHER, NO LONGER HOLDING ANYTHING BACK 3 January 2022. It was one of those nights: drunk, stoned, coked up, and full of Bazooka [a dangerous cocaine paste]. My husband had already snorted it all, and I was pumped full of alcohol and coke too – it had become the only way to make it through these nights. But this night, he was more violent than the others; there were so many of them in our marriage. I don’t remember how it happened this time – we were fighting, hitting each other, no longer holding anything back. I hit back. This is something I had “learned” in the last few months: to stop putting up with everything, to stop being scared and silent. I too had crossed the line, and we were about to go over the precipice. Eventually, he fell asleep, and I prayed: “God, if you want all this to end, let me go without waking him up.” I left. My packed bag had been waiting for this moment for months. I grabbed a few more things and headed out into the 8 DENVER VOICE March 2024 dark, with just enough money to pay for the bus to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Our daughter, who was 10,000 kilometers away, stayed on the phone with me the whole time and paid for the first hotel remotely. THE DECISION TO LEAVE It would take another two weeks until I could leave behind my old life of emotional and physical hell. You couldn’t just up sticks and leave like that. There were documents I needed to leave the country, and I had forgotten them. Besides, I couldn’t really let go yet. The few times we met before I finally left him and the country I’d come to know as my second home were filled with last-ditch attempts to save what was no longer savable. There were fears and threats of death and a final embrace with my husband that is burned into my mind. It was perhaps the only embrace in which our souls felt our pain, our sadness, and also the little love we had left for each other, for a few minutes in our 30-year marriage. I was fortunate to have help from some selfless, kind people, without whom I would not have been able to leave. AN UNCERTAIN FREEDOM 19 January 2022. Back in the winter in Germany. From the warm equator to the sub-zero temperatures of Frankfurt. I had my suitcase and a backpack; nothing else was left from those 30 years. I didn’t want anything else. For a long time, the only feelings I had were loneliness, of having uprooted myself: of not belonging anywhere and no longer wanting to belong anywhere. Our children had already given up a long time ago. They couldn’t watch it, couldn’t stand it anymore. Quito – Madrid – Frankfurt – Stuttgart. A 40-hour journey. FINDING YOURSELF AGAIN The next 18 months led to an inner journey that sometimes caused just as much terrible pain as my previous life. Inpatient therapy, facing up to my life, to my failure, to myself. It wasn’t just the hellish years of my marriage that needed to be looked at, but mainly the 30 years that preceded them. I realized that I had drifted through life for 60 years without any self-worth. I hadn’t learned to recognize, appreciate, and take myself and my feelings seriously. Loss How could I lose myself like that? Wasn’t I on the right path? That old fear of not feeling loved Was stronger and was leading me onto a dangerous bridge that broke beneath me Hope and illusion – two powerful drugs – until I fell apart But they carried me through pain and torment The voice saying stop fell on deaf ears I haven’t felt like myself for a long time. STARTING LIFE ANEW 12 September 2023. I have an appointment with a lawyer in a few days. I’m filing for divorce. And I’m trying to forgive myself. The responsibility never lies with just one person. That will never justify his violence, but I also had my reasons for staying and maintaining the relationship for so long, and for not sparing my children the misery much earlier. I am well on my way to coming to terms with my past and becoming a part of society again. But it’s not over yet. I have to slowly nurture a new relationship with my children and rebuild the trust that we destroyed. It will be a long and painful process. But I dream of one day sitting down at a table with them and laughing together warmly, happily. We have a long way to go, but I know that this moment will come. That’s what I’m working for, and it will only happen like this: When I’ve managed To overcome all my fears To find myself and appreciate her To no longer walk in his footsteps But rather follow my heart. When his blood no longer flows in my veins only then will I be free and we can talk again 3 November 2023. I no longer need him to know who I am. ■ Translated from German by Sarah G Robinson Courtesy of Trott-war / INSP.ngo NATIONAL STORY TOLEDO’S JAZZ LEGACY: THE BLACK MUSICIANS WHO SHAPED THE OHIO CITY’S SOUNDSCAPE BY ANGELA JENNINGS ART TATUM. ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF TOLEDO STREETS / INSP.NGO ART TATUM A name synonymous with virtuosic, Art Tatum took jazz pianism by the reigns and flipped it upside down. He took inspiration not only from jazz’s primary melodic aspects, but those that weren’t and still aren’t typically focused on, such as bass lines and percussive elements. He approached musicianship from an innovative different angle and was truly a force to be reckoned with. Local jazz expert Doug Swiatecki highlighted that Tatum’s “unbeatable piano stylings were developed in Toledo,” rather than after his introduction to more mainstream jazz communities in New York and Chicago. “When he left Toledo, he overwhelmed all of the pianists in New York,” added Swiatecki. “Going forward, every jazz pianist in history, no matter how creative they are, stands in the shadow of what Tatum did.” CLAUDE BLACK Although he did not share Tatum’s level of recognition, Claude Black was a true icon among Toledo’s most influential jazz pianists. After leaving Detroit, rather than choosing to move to New York, Black chose Toledo – a testament to his love for the city. According to Swiatecki, he was well respected and liked among his peers, and had a wide range of rich experiences with jazz greats. He was Aretha Franklin’s original keyboard player, and “talked about going to New York and jamming with all these famous guys, and the likes of Billie Holiday.” Kim Buehler of Toledo School for the Arts worked with Black directly and describes him as one of her biggest JEAN HOLDEN. COURTESY OF JEANHOLDEN.COM influences as a young jazz artist. “Claude Black could instruct you with just one eyebrow,” she said. “If you did something that he really liked he would kind of sit up and look at you, and you were like, ‘I did it, he looked at me!’” CLIFFORD MURPHY Clifford Murphy is recognized nationwide for his work as a jazz bassist. Both Swiatecki and Buehler credit the blossoming of Toledo’s jazz scene to the opening of jazz club Murphy’s Place, which he co-ran with his partner Joan Russell, who took charge while he travelled with his band. Murphy “brought a level of jazz musicianship into downtown Toledo that hadn’t been there since the late 40s or 50s,” said Swiatecki. JEAN HOLDEN A truly versatile entertainer, Jean Holden is widely considered one of the most important vocalists in Toledo to this day. “In terms of jazz, she can turn it on with the best jazz vocalist you can name and stand her ground,” said Swiatecki. With her vast knowledge of many other musical genres, such as blues and country, Holden has also worked as a vocal coach, and “the list and the names of people that have come out of her vocal studio is kind of staggering,” Swiatecki added. JON HENDRICKS Having grown up just down the street from Art Tatum, Jon Hendricks was destined to make an impact not only on a CLAUDE BLACK. COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO RAMONA COLLINS. COURTESY OF RAMONACOLLINS.COM March 2024 DENVER VOICE 9 RAMONA COLLINS Widely known as “Toledo’s hardest working vocalist,” Ramona Collins paved the way for the area’s female performers and vocalists. Buehler is one of the many young women who Collins mentored throughout her career. She described Collins as “a great mentor to her about how to be a woman in the industry. To this day, I still gig with her, and she does not take a break.” “I don’t think she suffers fools, and that’s refreshing,” Swiatecki added. “I’ve watched her adapt to the most professional orchestras and the most inexperienced players. She is such a vibrant person and a great advocate for all things jazz in Toledo.” ■ Courtesy of Toledo Streets / INSP.ngo local but on an international scale. With his invention of Vocalese, a style of jazz involving writing lyrics to songs or compositions that are typically instrumental, Hendricks made groundbreaking strides in his career. For four semesters, Buehler was Hendricks’ teaching assistant at the University of Toledo, which gifted her the opportunity to tour and perform with him in Europe. She described him as possessing great kindness. “Whether it was a person on a corner, a person passing him in the airport, the garbage man, or somebody really famous, he treated everybody the same,” she said. “He treated every person as if they were a king.” “I’m certain that Jon was truly one of the titans in the American jazz pantheon,” said Swiatecki.

SPECIAL FEATURE ON WARMER DAYS FAMILIES GATHER IN PARKING LOTS IN FRONT OF THEIR HOTELS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN NEW MIGRANTS REMAIN HOPEFUL DESPITE CHALLENGES BY GILES CLASEN THE CITY OF DENVER has served nearly 40,000 new immigrants often by offering shelter in hotels. New immigrant families were allowed to spend up to 42 days in a hotel before being released, while single men and women were often housed for up to 14 days. Denver sheltered 5,205 individuals at the peak of service on January 11, 2024. Since then, the number of individuals sheltered in hotels has decreased significantly. The long wait for a work permit has left many struggling to earn a living. Those who are unable to work have often turned to living in homeless encampments once they lose the city’s shelter. Since I began volunteering at new immigrant camps around Denver, there are three things I’ve noticed among most of the new immigrant communities: 1. Most of the new immigrants I have met participated in CBPOne [U.S. Customs and Border Protection] appointments before entering the United States. ONE ENCAMPMENT WAS FORCED TO RELOCATE MULTIPLE TIMES AFTER POLICE WARNED OF EMINENT SWEEPS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 10 DENVER VOICE March 2024 ONE ENCAMPMENT WAS FORCED TO RELOCATE MULTIPLE TIMES AFTER POLICE WARNED OF EMINENT SWEEPS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SPECIAL FEATURE NEW MIGRANTS FEEL A MIX OF EXHAUSTION AND HOPE AS THEY END UP LIVING ON THE STREETS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN VOLUNTEERS AND NEW IMMIGRANTS MOVE A CAMP LATE INTO THE NIGHT BEFORE A SWEEP. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN THOUSANDS OF OF NEW MIGRANTS ARE RELEASED FROM HOTELS, INCLUDING CHILDREN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN NEW MIGRANTS MOVE INTO ENCAMPMENT SWEPT EARLIER IN THE WEEK. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN They crossed the border legally and are scheduled for immigration hearings, which in time, will determine their eligibility to remain in the U.S. 2. Almost everyone I’ve spoken with wants to work. Every day, I receive several texts and messages from new immigrants through WhatsApp, asking how they can find jobs. 3. Despite living on the streets and in tents, the majority of the new migrants are thrilled to be in the U.S. One person told me that even though they live in a tent, they are in a better situation than when they were in Venezuela. In Venezuela, they had they had little opportunity and no hope that their circumstances would change. In Denver, individuals and families are looking past their short-term struggles and are hopeful for future opportunities and success for themselves and their families. ■ VOLUNTEERS AND NEW IMMIGRANTS MOVE A CAMP LATE INTO THE NIGHT BEFORE A SWEEP. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN NEW MIGRANTS FEEL A MIX OF EXHAUSTION AND HOPE AS THEY END UP LIVING ON THE STREETS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN March 2024 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS GOING THROUGH CANCER BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR ACCEPTING MY BALDNESS Today, I had to come to terms with losing my hair. The first few days after chemo treatment was hard. Then, 10 days later, my hair started to fall out. I couldn’t watch it fall out slowly. It hurt my heart. I had to come to terms with losing my hair. ALL OF MY HAIR. I had grown my hair to about 10 inches long. From that to no hair was hard to take. People put a high value on hair, but cancer said, “Surprise! You will go into this New Year BALD!” I found out that Great Cuts in Lafayette would cut my hair for free. They do that for cancer patients to give them peace of mind over hair loss on their terms. When I went into Great Cuts to have them shave my head, the gentleman who took me said he had never done a head shave. This was a first for both of us, so we comforted each other through the process. When I got up to leave, we gave each other a big emotional hug. So why should I cry about this? In time, my hair will grow back. So it’s okay, I will overcome this new bump in the road. I have to keep telling myself, “Sit, wait, hope, and pray.” I have to keep my mind strong to deal with all of the pain and discomfort. PAUSING CHEMO TO DEAL WITH AN ADDITIONAL MEDICAL ISSUE I found out that I have to have surgery for another healthrelated issue. Sooner, rather than later. They tell me before I can have the surgery, I have to stop chemo. Then, after the surgery, I have to wait four to six weeks to get back on my chemo treatment, so my recovery will be longer than first thought. I was in pain (not related to my cancer) for nine months before they found out what was wrong, and now the pain has gotten worse, and it’s harder for me to use my mind to keep the pain at bay. It takes a lot of mind power to keep up with the pain I’m in. I just wish the doctors or hospital had really listened to me. Maybe I wouldn’t be in so much pain for this long. When you’re going through medical problems, you sometimes have to remind yourself it has to get worse before it gets better. It’s scary when they tell you they don’t know how bad it is and that they will probably have to do reconstructive surgery while I’m still in the operating room. You never know how strong you really are until you are in it! CARING FOR MY DOGS Last night, my friend and sister Missy said that she and her husband will keep my babies until I can walk and bend down. That is the biggest help to me while I recover from surgery. It is a big deal for someone to take care of my dogs for a long time. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: KAREN BEEMAN I just got back from Denver, where I went to give Missy my babies to keep until I heal. I know she will take good care of them. She has done it before. I feel blessed to have real friends who will be with me through the hell yet to come to my body. GOING FORWARD When this is finally behind me, my life will get back to the way it was before all of this stopped me. I know I will feel better when this is over. Then, I have to start the chemo treatment again. Not looking forward to doing that again, but it is what it is. I thank God today that I’m strong enough to get through all of these medical issues. I believe in the power of prayer and hope you will consider keeping me in yours. ■ COLORING PAGE BY GIGI GALEN 12 DENVER VOICE March 2024 EVENTS GUIDED MEDITATION A regular meditation practice can help you cultivate kindness and inner peace—two things we desperately need in stressful times. Each class will include instruction on mindfulness themes, followed by 30 minutes of practice. All are welcome! WHEN: Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. COST: Free but registration is required. WHERE: Online INFO: denverlibrary.org/events SOUTH SOUTH BROADWAY VARIETY SHOW Every Thursday, enjoy a free night of stand-up comedy and live music down on South Broadway. WHEN: Mar 7, 14, 21, and 28, 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Western Sky Bar & Taproom, 4361 S. Broadway INFO: westernskybar.com COLORADO DRAGON BOAT FILM FESTIVAL Founded in 2016, this four-day festival will feature in-person film screenings, community conversations, and special events celebrating the power of filmmaking within Asian communities. WHEN: Mar 14 – Mar 17 COST: Prices vary; see website for details. WHERE: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax INFO: denverfilm.org ACROSS Across 1. Loud 7. Annoyance 13. Apple juice brand 14. Evoking strong feeling 16. They hold your horses 17. Tackle or guard 18. Literally three 19. Give way, as to pedestrians TATTERED COVER WRITERS’ CLUB Join fellow writers once a month to discuss processes, goals, publishing logistics, and techniques. This event is held the last Monday of every month. WHEN: Mar 25, 6 p.m. COST: $5 WHERE: Tattered Cover, 2526 E. Colfax Ave. INFO: tatteredcover.com 21. Smart-alecky 22. Paper covering the NYSE 23. Inc. relative 24. Game with matchsticks 25. Bucket of bolts 27. Spanish “Enough!” 29. ___ voom 30. Crew member 32. Scuffles 34. Picnic pest 35. “Who, me?” 36. South American river in an Enya song title 40. Drooping 44. Rip apart 45. The fourth letter in “circle,” but not the first 47. Final Four org. 48. World finance org. 49. Center X or O 50. Sixth sense, for short 51. Standard 53. Attack ad, maybe 55. Confront 56. Band follower 58. Salon treatment 60. “Evil Ways” band 61. Muffles 62. Unsaturated alcohol (anagram of OSTLER) 63. Least ingenuous DOWN 1. Shrinking Asian lake 2. Glass cover on a Sylvia Plath novel 3. Response to “Shall we?” 4. Had a meal 5. One of the titular Gilmore girls 6. Greek letter 7. Patsy Walker’s comics alter ego 8. In the center of 9. Prince, to a king 10. Fret 11. In-between 12. Slippery 13. “Tommy” rockers 15. Colonic treatments 20. “A Nightmare on ___ Street” 26. Mind your ___ q’s 27. “Obvi!” 28. Poison plant 29. Churchill’s gesture 31. 6 on a phone 33. Saturate, in dialect 36. Rubber gaskets 37. Shark-riding fish 38. Ahead (of) 39. Breakfast staple 40. External memory holders for digital cameras 41. Mountain climbing tools 42. In the beginning stages 43. Rubberneckers 46. Carly ___ Jepsen 52. Setting you might turn on and off throughout a videoconference 53. ___-Japanese War 54. Fishing rod attachment 55. Grow dim 57. Golfer’s goal 59. Set (down) COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 NERD NITE If you’re a fan of TED talks, the Discovery Channel, and/or Wikipedia binges, Nerd Nite is the show for you! Three experts will present on three different topics, while the audience drinks and thinks along the way. Be there and be square! WHEN: Mar 29, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: $10 in advance, $15 at the door WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: bugtheatre.org March 2024 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Anonymous Individual Donor Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Matt and Nikki Seashore Cisco Francis Trainer and Trainer Family $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Laurie Duncan and Duncan-Mcwethy Foundation Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Frederic K Conover Trust The Christian Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foundation Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Envestnet $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Joshua Kauer Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Whole Foods Foundation Michael Dino Alex Salva Signs By Tomorrow Rose Community Foundation Russell Peterson Donald Weaver Chris and Susan Pappas Julia and David Watson Gaspar Terrana SEI Giving Fund Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Megan Arellano Lisa Wagner Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver Mathew Rezek The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Elsbeth Williams Christopher Boulanger KO Law Firm Graham Davis Peter Iannuzzi $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson Ruth Henderson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Craig Solomon Christopher Stewart Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity KL&A Engineers and Builders 14 DENVER VOICE March 2024 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, VETERAN SUPPORT COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ALANON FAMILY GROUPS: al-anon.org; Find a meeting: al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/find-an-al-anon-meeting ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: aa.org; Colorado Service Centers; daccaa.org/central-office/other-central-offices DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/ treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F 9am-12pm: harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins 303-296-1767; Dental 303-296-4873; M-F 8am-2pm LIVE ANOTHER DAY: 877-596-6866; Equal access to life-saving mental health and substance abuse resources; 24/7 helpline: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepc-connection.org; viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; 988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; 1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic Hours: 7am-4pm M/T/Th/F; 9am-6pm Wed; coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: Helpline 888-493-4670; detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ URBAN PEAKS REHAB: 490 Lafayette St., #104; 303-599-5131; Medication management and therapy center specializing in opiate addiction; M, T, Th – 9am-12pm, 1 pm-4pm, W – 9am-12pm, 1 pm-7pm; urbanpeaksrehab.com U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); thehotline.org CAREER SERVICES BAYAUD ENTERPRISES CW-STEP: (Colorado Works - Subsidized training and employment program); 333 W. Bayaud Ave.; 303-830-6885; Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm; Provides re-entry to the workforce for individuals with TANF eligibility; info@bayaudenterprises.org COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER: Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway; 720-865-1706; M & T - 10am-8pm; Wed., Th &F - 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, WIFI, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments; denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER: Denver Dept of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd.; M-F 7:30am-4:30pm; Employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé prep, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc.; careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center WORKNOW: 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITE: 212-461-4401 truecolorsunited.org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, Wed.-Fri.; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.: Aurora 303-399-8020: va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: Veterans Disability Calculator veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE: 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412 Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK: 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours M-F 8-11am urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; sunshinebehavioralhealth.com TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 3080 Broadway, Boulder; 303-447-1207, 303-447-1207; For ages 12-24; Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services; M-Sun, 12:30-5pm; tgthr.org March 2024 DENVER VOICE 15 URBAN PEAK: 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; urbanpeak.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777;; Helps with employment, IDs, birth certs, mail services and lockers; M-Th - 10am-2pm; citysquare.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F - 7am-1pm; Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc.; thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc.; M, W, Th, F - 8:30am-5pm, T - 8:30am-1:30pm; tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 E. Colfax; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harmreduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; M-F - 9am-12pm; harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Help with lost IDs and birth certificates; holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM: 1555 Race St.; 303-832-3354; For men and women with HIV; M-F 8am-4pm LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; Day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services; homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, wifi; M-F 7a-5:30p; odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St; 303-297-1576; 6am-6pm daily; Storage for one bag (when space is available); Satellite Clinic hours- M, T, Th. F - 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm; sfcdenver.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee M-F. 8:30am; denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:45-12:15; mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F only: 7am-1pm. 8am breakfast, 11am lunch; havenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY: Food service on second and fourth Thursdays; feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS: Sun. 4 p.m.; 22nd St. Stout St (near Mercury Café); Instagram: @denverfoodnotbombs HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH: 29th and Milwaukee St.; Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm; jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY: 126 W. 2nd Ave.; 303-722-8781 Dinner at 4pm on Tues; Also offers a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available; stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. (Auraria Campus), 11am 7 days/week; food/coffee; stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm; Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon.; saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; soallmayeat.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER: 608 26th St., Thurs dinners, 6pm-7pm; lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St.; breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun.; food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetrofoodnutrition-themission DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Addressing Period Poverty in Colorado JUSTICE NECESSARY STRIVES TO MAKE PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS MORE ACCESSIBLE. PAGE 6 THE FIGHT TO END MATERNAL MORTALITY LOOKING AT THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS AND INCREASED RISK OF MATERNAL DEATH. PAGE 5 LOVE ON THE STREETS TWO VOICE VENDOR COUPLES TALK ABOUT LOVE WHILE FACING HOUSING INSTABILITY. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 9, 10, 11,12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 FEBRUARY 2024 | Vol.29 Issue 2 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) STATE OF WORLD POPULATION 2023: ENSURING RIGHTS AND CHOICES KEY TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. PAGE 4 FROM YOUR VENDOR: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE TO QUOTE THE INTRODUCTION ROBERT DAVIS SO ELOQUENTLY WROTE for our “Love on the Streets” profiles in this issue, “It is challenging enough to face homelessness, when laws exist that criminalize basic actions ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR like sleeping or sharing food in public places. When the people who are spending their nights in shelters or public spaces have no room for private conversations or intimate moments, it makes it next to impossible for them to pursue or maintain a romantic relationship.” By sharing the stories of Tim and Alyssa, and Jason and Larmarques, we hope to remind our readers that the desire to give and receive love is universal. While many of us glance at encampments as we drive or walk past them, it is too easy to see only the tents. But each of those tents represents at least one person who spends their nights there. And like the rest of us, the people staying in those tents dream of finding love or enjoying the loving relationships they have. Demonstrating love for another is more than giving sentimental cards, flowers, or candy on Valentine’s Day. When we love someone else, we don’t feel that emotion just during commercial holidays. And when we know we are loved by others it makes the good times even better and the bad times less daunting. So, not just on Valentine’s Day but every day – may we all share and experience the gift of genuine love, and may we also make it a habit to let those we care about know they matter. ■ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, the Colorado Sun, and Medium.com. GRACE THORBURN is a journalism student at the University of Colorado Boulder. She hopes that her writing will make a difference in the community by covering social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, homelessness, and racial equity. 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. 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 2 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen WRITERS Lando Allen Robert Davis Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Larmarques Smith Grace Thorburn DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, President Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Antonio Diaz, Treasurer Michael Burkley Cassandria Carmouche Robert Davis Nikki Lawson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 2 DENVER VOICE February 2024 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR LANDO ALLEN. Q A If you don’t like your situation (where you live/sleep, your relationship, your health, etc.) , what can YOU do to improve that situation? LANDO ALLEN When I got to Denver, I came across a situation, where a guy was mad at me for snoring while I was sleeping at the shelter. I listened to my voice and got a car and camper to get out of the shelter because they took my stuff. I never looked back. But it’s not easy because I am looking at the city that has tried to take my camper. I’m trying to do the right thing and fix up my camper so it drives better. RAELENE JOHNSON The very first thing to do is ask for help (and want to receive that help). Only when you’re ready to make a change will you start taking chances on yourself and helping yourself get where you need to go by asking for help. When you ask for help and are told what to do, don’t complain. If you complain all the time then you really don’t want the help. In Colorado, there is all kinds of help available if you really want it. JASON MARTIN My health has been on my mind a lot lately, I was diagnosed with Hep C back in 2014, and I didn’t meet the criteria to receive the cure for it. Now, I can receive the cure for free, and I don’t have to meet any criteria, so I’m going to care of it. LARMARQUES SMITH One might think, “Just leave the situation,” but that is easier said than done. Most people grow complacent and choose to stay in an uncomfortable, yet familiar place, rather move to someplace that is unfamiliar. I would research options for other places and make an educated decision on where I should go, based on what needs I have and what resources are available to me. Only I can improve my current situation. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. February 2024 DENVER VOICE 3

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE STATE OF WORLD POPULATION 2023: ENSURING RIGHTS AND CHOICES KEY TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT BY UNFPA BRAZIL THE WORLD POPULATION HAS REACHED 8 BILLION PEOPLE. This is a milestone to be celebrated: it represents longer and healthier lives, with more rights and choices than ever in humanity’s history. But for some groups, the understanding of the scenario was different: headlines warn of a world heading towards overpopulation, or of countries and even entire regions aging into obsolescence. Such representations represent birth rates as both a problem and a solution but do not recognize the autonomy of the people who give birth. Expanding and guaranteeing human rights, especially of women and girls, should be the central concern. Additionally, migration, often addressed with a tone of alarm, must be considered as part of the solution: in countries of origin, it can reduce unemployment and underemployment and contribute to reducing poverty and promoting wider economic and social development, while meeting workforce demands in destination countries. The new data published by The State of World Population 2023, “8 Billion Lives, Infinite Possibilities: In defense of rights and choices”, from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), shows that it is possible to reach higher levels of development, progress, and equality. But only if governments and the media work together to guarantee access to rights, as well as the information for conscious choices, abandoning the narrative of increasing or decreasing populations and of an alleged ideal number of children. History has shown that fertility policies created to increase or decrease birth rates are frequently ineffective and tend to harm women’s rights. Several countries have implemented programs to create larger families, offering financial incentives and rewards ILLUSTRATED BY TIAGO PALMA Instead of asking how quickly people are reproducing, political leaders should ask if individuals, especially women, are able to freely make their own reproductive choices – a question to which the answer is, very frequently, no. “The quest for fertility goals and the attempt to influence to women and their families, but continue to see birth rates below two children per woman. Meanwhile, there are efforts to slow down population increase through forced sterilization and coercive contraception – a severe violation of human rights. Women’s bodies and access to prevention possibilities and unintended pregnancies cannot be factors controlled by population policies. Demography cannot be synonymous with a reduction in rights. women’s reproductive decision-making will only result in failure,” says Dr. Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of UNFPA. “History has established that those policies are rarely effective and harm women’s rights. Investing in people and in their potential is the safest way to prosperity and peace.” A staggering 44% of women and girls in 68 countries do not have the right to make informed decisions about their bodies when it comes to having sex, using contraceptives, and seeking medical care, and it is estimated that 257 million women worldwide have an unmet need for safe and reliable contraceptives. Family planning should not be used as a tool to reach fertility goals – in fact, it should be used as a tool to give people greater possibilities. Women should be able to choose if, when, and how often they would like to have children, without coercion from so-called experts and authorities. The report emphatically recommends that governments establish policies with gender equality and rights at their core, such as parental license programs, child tax credits, policies that promote gender equality in the workplace, universal access to healthcare, and sexual and reproductive rights. These policies offer a proven formula that will reap economic dividends and lead to resilient societies that are capable of thriving, regardless of population changes. Only with organized policies will we be able to guarantee that people make well-informed and protected choices regarding reproduction. ■ Courtesy of UNFPA Brazil / INSP.ngo 4 DENVER VOICE February 2024 INTERNATIONAL STORY THE FIGHT TO END MATERNAL MORTALITY BY UNFPA BRASIL FROM 2015 TO 2020, approximately 8,000 women in Latin America and the Caribbean died each year due to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum complications. In 2020, the number of maternal deaths in the region increased by 9% from 2019. It is estimated that the COVID-19 pandemic set regional maternal health indicators back by 20 years. While all women are at risk of experiencing pregnancyrelated complications, there is a clear relationship between socioeconomic status and increased risk of maternal illness and death. These deaths continue to reflect gender inequality, ethnicity, place of residence, and education – factors associated with socioeconomic level. The most common causes are high blood pressure during pregnancy, bleeding, and complications from unsafe abortion. However, nine out of 10 of these deaths are avoidable with quality healthcare, access to contraception, and reduced inequality in access to care. The Inter-Agency Working Group to Reduce Maternal Mortality (IWG), part of the United Nations Population Fund, launched a campaign “Zero Maternal Deaths. Avoid the Avoidable” – a joint declaration addressed to the governments of Latin America and the Caribbean, civil society, the private sector, and the media to increase political and financial commitment and prioritize maternal health. As a member of the IWG, the UNFPA appeals to governments to increase political and financial commitment and prioritize maternal health; donors to contribute financial resources; technical agencies to provide the necessary assistance; and the media to highlight this critical issue. Without this joint effort, progress in eradicating preventable maternal deaths will stall, and the basic human rights to health and life will continue to be threatened. “Maternal morbidity and mortality is not just a health problem, it is also a social and political problem,” said Florbela Fernandes, UNFPA representative in Brazil. “It has health and economic implications for families and communities, given the important role that women play in family life, the community and countries’ social and economic development.” ■ Courtesy of Traços / INSP.ngo DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. ILLUSTRATED BY TIAGO PALMA If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org February 2024 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN JUSTICE NECESSARY: ADDRESSING PERIOD POVERTY IN COLORADO BY GRACE THORBURN DIANE CUSHMAN NEAL WAS ADMITTED into a Denver hospital with cystic fibrosis and after several weeks, came out of it with the news the condition had damaged her lungs. She would need a double lung transplant to survive. This was in March 2020, just a few days before COVID-19 began sweeping the country. “The world stopped,” she recalled in an interview with Denver VOICE. “So, I came home and said, ‘How are we going to do this during a respiratory pandemic?’” Cushman Neal said that she thought about her situation and realized that instead of worrying, she should put her talents into advocating for positive change and helping others rather than focusing on her problems. With that, she decided to take action. This is not an unusual approach for Cushman Neal, who said her family describes her as having relentless determination and a knack for generating ideas, which has motivated her to take on various philanthropic projects throughout her life. Cushman Neal’s initial passion for change-making in the community was sparked as a youth when she volunteered at food pantries, and since then, her desire to help others has continued to blossom. As Denver and other cities locked down during the peak of the pandemic, news stories reported that newly out-ofwork families were rushing to food pantries. It occurred to Cushman Neal that if kids weren’t in school, due to the pandemic, it meant they weren’t getting free lunches or breakfasts, and families were going hungry. When Cushman Neal offered to help her local pantry, she learned about an even bigger issue. Not only was lack of food a problem, but as the pantry workers explained, feminine hygiene products were scarce. According to the pantry staff, when a woman came in looking for period products, there was only a small supply of tampons or pads. Cushman Neal said this made her wonder if feminine hygiene was overlooked, how were menstruating girls and women going to cope? Cushman Neal recognized that when a mother faces challenges accessing period products, that need often extends to difficulties in obtaining diapers for their children. That situation can lead parents to prioritize their children’s needs over their own. “[I] made this pact in my head that I was going to get [the pantry] a year’s worth of products anonymously and help them get through the pandemic,” Cushman Neal said. “In doing so, I had this epiphany that if someone doesn’t have PHOTO COURTESY OF JUSTICENECESSARY.ORG 6 DENVER VOICE February 2024 COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN period products, that also means they don’t have diapers, and they’ll sacrifice period products for diapers.” This flash-of-lightening inspiration led to a significant change for Cushman Neal. She contacted the Jewish Family Service’s food program and suggested that they host a drive for food and hygiene products. She explained to them that she would help, but she would have to work in isolation, as she couldn’t risk exposure to others due to her cystic fibrosis and delicate lungs. JFS food program’s annual fall food drive in 2020 was held virtually due to COVID-19. Cushman Neal had been working with an organic, eco-friendly period company. She’d negotiated favorable pricing for the period products, and her goal was to secure a similar pricing arrangement with a diaper company to maximize the funds raised. The drive ran parallel with the JFS annual food drive for 30 days raising the equivalent of 6,000 months of period products and 80,000 diapers. Pleased with the result, Cushman Neal thanked the pantry staff and suggested they do it again next year. In response, they said, “Oh no, your work is not finished at all, you need to keep going.” So, she did, and along the way, Justice Necessary was born. Today, Cushman Neal is building on that success in the wake of external circumstances that continue to force too many into choosing to go without period products and diapers so that they can feed their families. A report published in 2022 by Justice Necessary found that 47% of Colorado women experience period poverty. Period poverty refers to the struggle women face when trying to afford menstrual products. To address this struggle Justice Necessary is delivering personal hygiene products to schools, food pantries, and outreach organizations to meet immediate hygiene needs in Colorado communities. A few of their partners include CU Denver, The Salvation Army, Jeffco Public Schools, and the Period Menstrual Movement. “People aren’t paying attention to this issue [of period poverty],” said Kate Swindell, a team member for the organization PERIOD – a nonprofit working to eradicate period poverty globally. “It’s a think globally, act locally type of movement right now.” According to Swindell, PERIOD was established through the passion of 16-year-old Nadya Okamata from Portland, Oregon, who gave a name and face to the problem of period poverty. PERIOD, which is made up of 10 women, strives to eradicate period poverty and stigma through advocacy such as their worldwide Period Action Day. Swindell said that “Giving people language and helping people feel comfortable with their bodies and their biological processes,” is the most rewarding part of her work with PERIOD. “Getting comfortable with the word [period] and talking about menstruation has been the coolest thing to see. People say it, own it, and use it.” Assistance programs in Colorado, such as Women, Infants, and Children and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, don’t cover the costs of diapers, baby wipes, or feminine hygiene products. What’s more, the FDA’s decision in February 2023 to cut extra funding to government programs like SNAP, and months of unusually high inflation, have battered many struggling families and reduced their buying power by magnitudes. “So, when that happened, people in Colorado lost an average of $90 per person [per month] in their household…,” said Cushman Neal. “A family of four that was receiving food benefits through SNAP would lose a total of $360 [per month] in the ability to buy groceries. For a senior receiving $212 [per month] it went down to $23 [per month]. [When] you think about that and then you reflect that back on your grocery bill, hygiene becomes one of the last things.” According to Cushnman Neal, because SNAP and WIC benefits don’t cover hygiene product expenses, food pantries are stretched to their limits, and most are in dire need of hygiene products, specifically feminine hygiene products, diapers, and baby wipes. Cushman Neal said that in just one month, Justice Necessary’s partner agencies experienced a 467% increase in requests for period products. “If you don’t have to go out without your hygiene products, you quite often don’t put yourself in the shoes of someone who might,” said Wendy Z, who asked that her last name be withheld for privacy. According to Wendy Z, without Justice Necessary’s work to ensure that basic hygiene products are available at food pantries, she would not have been able to get the necessary products she needed. “If everyone had access to period products it would be a miracle,” she said. Period poverty impacts menstruators physically, medically, emotionally, and socially. In 2022, Justice Necessary surveyed 1,256 Coloradans who identified as female between the ages of 18-40 about their access to period products in the past 12 months and how that impacted their daily lives. Sixty-seven percent of women felt uncomfortable and stressed out when they didn’t have adequate access to period products. Fortyone percent of respondents used period products longer than recommended, and 38% of women missed personal activities due to period poverty. By using hygiene products longer than recommended, menstruators are at risk for bacterial infections, skin irritations, and a slew of other health problems caused by a lack of access to clean and hygienic products. Continued on page 8 February 2024 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE Continued from page 7 “When you think about how easy it is on a medical level and then formaldehyde [a harmful, potentially cancer-causing chemical which is found in many menstrual products] goes into or on a menstruator’s body, you think about what does that do long term?” said Cushman Neal. Cushman Neal said that by providing the community with hygiene products that are free of harmful chemicals and environmentally responsible, they’re avoiding boomeranging these women back into a system where they will need medical help in the long term due to these harmful chemicals entering their bodies. For someone with a motto of “dream it, plan it, do it,” connecting with nearly 1,000 pantries and organizations in Colorado that provide personal hygiene products to menstruators in the Colorado community is just the starting point of Cushman Neal’s work. Justice Necessary will soon launch “Find Your Pantry,” a program to help community members find their nearest pantry for food, period products, hygiene products, and more. “By doing this, it allows us to tell people in Colorado where to go so that you don’t have somebody traveling across town with their children to find out they can’t get diapers, they can’t get period products,” said Cushman Neal. “There’s so many people that are so generous that can work on a community level to support each other.” At the heart of Cushman Neal’s work at Justice Necessary CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Justice Necessary forges connections and educates policymakers about this hidden crisis to build a community where everyone has access to hygiene basics. Thus far, Justice Necessary has donated at least 3.1 million organic period products, 82,216 and counting eco-friendly diapers and wipes, and 190,348 other basic hygiene essentials. The organization also played a key role in advocating for policy change. The collaboration with the HB22-1055 Stakeholder Group to raise awareness about period poverty and diaper needs ultimately led to the removal of the Colorado state sales tax on essential products such as period products, diapers, and incontinence products. Justice Necessary was also successful in securing an official proclamation from the State of Colorado and Governor Polis for Diaper Need Awareness Week in September 2023. Currently, Justice Necessary is running legislation in the 2024 legislative session to ensure access to period products for middle and high school students in Colorado. Affordability, access, and awareness are the three driving factors of the period poverty crisis. According to Cushman Neal, Coloradans who live 20 to 50 miles away from stores that are already on the smaller side may be forced to buy personal hygiene products at a higher price. Beyond the issue of access to period products and their affordability, Justice Necessary is also committed to people with serious illnesses. Speaking from her experience, Cushman Neal said that individuals with cystic fibrosis are recommended to consume 4,000 calories a day. “When you think about a family raising a kid with cystic fibrosis needing to buy 4,000 calories of food per day, that’s another reason hygiene gets put on the back burner because you have to make that choice in the checkout line,” Cushman Neal said. “But the reality is, if you have a serious illness, hygiene can be the difference, I’m not being overdramatic but literally, it is life and death, because when you are immunosuppressed or struggling the difference of an infection is the difference of if you are going in the hospital or if you’re going to be able to continue to live a normal life.” Justice Necessary’s commitment to a cleaner environment has allowed the organization to address two pressing societal FACTSHEET COURTESY OF JUSTICE NECESSARY issues simultaneously: protecting the planet and providing feminine hygiene products that are free of harmful chemicals. Cushman Neal pointed out that a common misconception is people automatically assume eco-friendly products that are good for our bodies and the environment are expensive and are not within reach. Period products that contain formaldehyde and known carcinogens easily transit these chemicals into the bodies of menstruators. “Medically we’ve been able to create vaginal creams that allow medication to be delivered through that method as they go very easily into the bloodstream,” said Cushman Neal. is helping the next person in need, month after month, by increasing outreach to connect with further organizations and food pantries to ideally fulfill the needs of all 64 counties in Colorado. According to Cushman Neal, when someone calls to express how access to personal hygiene products has enabled them to resume their daily routines – like going to work, spending time with their families, or going to school – she knows Justice Necessary is making a difference. She also knows her work has just begun. “What’s hard for me, honestly, is I then worry that we’ve only done this amount, but I want to do more.” ■ To learn more about Justice Necessary, visit justicenecessary.org. 8 DENVER VOICE February 2024 SPECIAL FEATURE of melt away when he hugs me. His hugs make me feel safe. I didn’t feel that way often when I was growing up in Missouri. Tim is the first person in my life that has made me feel safe like that. TIM: Alyssa makes me feel loved. I can tell her all my secrets. If I share something I’m passionate about, she’ll nurture it. My ex never did that in the 14 years we were together. Alyssa makes me feel complete in ways that I’ve never felt before. It’s kind of scary when you love someone enough to get hit by a car or take a bullet for them. When and where did you two share your first kiss? What did it feel like? TIM: She told me her mom was going to put her out on the street because they couldn’t get along, and I didn’t want that for her. I drove out to pick her up, and I don’t know what came over me. After I saw her, I kind of ran over and gave her a big hug and kissed her. She pulled away at first because she knew about my ex-wife. I told her that we had separated before I drove out to get her, and we just kissed. Where was your first date? TIM: Burger King in Arkansas! TIM (L) AND ALYSSA (R). CREDIT: GILES CLASEN ALYSSA: I still have the crown I got that day. I keep it in the glove compartment of our car. LOVE ON THE STREETS: Tim & Alyssa BY ROBERT DAVIS EVERYONE FALLS IN LOVE, but homelessness can make it much more difficult to do so. There is no such thing as “privacy” when you’re living outside, much less anything that resembles a safe place to call home. Laws that criminalize basic human actions like sleeping, sitting, lying down, or sharing food in public spaces make romantic courtship much riskier for people targeted by these laws as well. Add to that the trauma and stress of unsheltered homelessness itself and falling in love seems impossible. For Alyssa Will and Tim Jones, who have been dating since August 2023, falling in love has been one wild ride. Early on, they rode the highways back and forth through Arkansas and Missouri together before they embarked on a journey to Colorado. But their car broke down shortly after they got to Denver and even though they work odd jobs every day except for Sunday, Tim says, their income isn’t enough to afford rent, food, and a hefty mechanic bill altogether. But those challenges haven’t stopped Alyssa and Tim from building a romantic relationship together. It’s hard work, but necessary nonetheless, Alyssa said. “Whenever we get our time together, we go outside for a walk and hold hands like a new couple,” Alyssa said. Denver VOICE spoke with Alyssa and Tim about how their relationship started and what it takes to fall in love while experiencing homelessness. This interview has been lovingly edited for length and clarity. DENVER VOICE: First, I have to say I love how you two smile every time you look at each other. How did you first meet? TIM: I was living in Arkansas at the time with my ex-wife and kids. My ex and I had a lot of issues that ended up tearing us apart. So, I moved out and started staying with a friend. That’s when I met Alyssa the first time. I think we played Mario Party that night, She ended up moving back to Missouri shortly after we met and I didn’t get to see her for a while after that. ALYSSA: We stayed in contact while I was in Missouri. We talked about life and whatever was on our mind. I was staying with my mom at the time, and I ended up leaving her house because of a disagreement. I got arrested and put in a holding cell for a couple of days. Tim didn’t hear from me while I was locked up and he didn’t like that. He was the first person I called when they let me out and I got back to my mom’s place. I told him all I wanted to do was see him and play Mario. So, he drove out to come get me and we’ve been together ever since. What do you like about your significant other? Do you have a favorite body part, or a favorite part of their personality? ALYSSA: Tim is so funny. There have been times when he’s told a joke and I almost cry because it’s so funny. He also gives the best hugs. I could be having a panic attack and all he has to do is hug me and I’ll be okay. My pain and frustrations kind What happens if you get into a disagreement? How do you resolve it? TIM: We’ve had our ups and downs. A lot of downs. But we keep working through it. Whenever we get into a big fight, we usually take some space for ourselves. I’ll go one way and she goes another, but we keep talking. We talk on the phone instead of texting because we want to hear each other’s tone. Talking about your feelings is a big part of being in a relationship. If you can’t talk about them, then the relationship isn’t going to work. How do you keep the romance alive in your relationship? ALYSSA: It can be hard to be romantic or intimate when you’re sleeping in a car or living at someone else’s house temporarily. We sometimes stay with Tim’s brother, but there really isn’t space for us to be romantic there. There are people walking around all the time and there’s no privacy. TIM: She calls me handsome, and I tell her she’s beautiful every day. I know some people don’t like public affection, but we don’t care. I’ll hold her hand or kiss her. The only thing we don’t really get to do is be intimate in that “special” way. What does the word “love” mean to you? ALYSSA: Love is putting someone else before yourself for whatever reason. It’s about focusing all your energy on someone else to the point that they feel warm. I have had a hard time showing people that I love them in the past, but it’s easy to love Tim. I show him love through words of affirmation and physical touch, even when I’m feeling lazy. TIM: Love means everything. It’s sacrifice; it’s change; it’s about doing things for someone else that you wouldn’t do for yourself. ■ February 2024 DENVER VOICE 9

SPECIAL FEATURE What do you love about each other? JASON: Larmarques accepts me for who I am. I’ve had a lot of trust issues. My life could be a couple of novels from what I’ve been through. Now, I have somebody who actually cares about me. And it’s been a while since I’ve had that. I feel human again. Before, I didn’t. I was lied to from an early age about who my father was, so I had identity issues and always kept people at bay. But when you find somebody that really cares, it’s a good thing. I like having that feeling. LARMARQUES: Jason is intriguing. He is so different from the person that you see, or the front that he puts on. He puts on this really masculine, “I don’t give a fuck about the world,” persona, but he’s actually a big soft teddy bear, cuddling thing. He’s just as romantic and soft and caring as I am. He just doesn’t show it to others. In past issues of the Denver VOICE, you both have written about walks you’ve taken or places you’ve gone together. Can you tell me about one of your most memorable adventures? LARMARQUES (L) AND JASON (R). CREDIT: LARMARQUES SMITH LOVE ON THE STREETS: Larmarques & Jason BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN IN THE THREE YEARS since they first became a couple, Larmarques Smith and Jason Martin have lived together in an apartment, stayed at the same shelter, or spent their nights tucked away on the streets of Denver. Recently, they were part of a sweep, where city officials transported several individuals from an encampment to a nearby hotel that has been converted into a temporary shelter. Larmarques and Jason met at a party, and neither could deny the spark between them. Upon learning Jason was visiting from Wyoming and not exactly thrilled at the thought of returning, Larmarques suggested that Jason stay with him. What started as an instant attraction three years ago has grown into a loving and supportive partnership. For the second our Valentine’s Day-themed “Love on the Streets” profile, Denver VOICE spoke to Larmarques and Jason about how their relationship has grown while looking for places they can shelter together. Denver VOICE: How would you describe your relationship? JASON: Larmarques is my partner. We do everything together. Talk about how you met. JASON: I came to Denver with a guy from Wyoming. I’m a city boy, and I had been living in Wyoming for three or four months. When Larmarques presented an opportunity for me to move here, I took it. LARMARQUES: I understood why Jason wouldn’t want to go back to Wyoming. I jokingly commented that Wyoming is so exciting and a such great metropolis, that everybody loves to not go back there. I also let him know he was welcome to stay with me. How has your relationship changed since you first got together? JASON: We’ve gotten closer. We’ve gotten into a couple of big fights, but I respect him, and he respects me. Larmarques, you’ve been a vendor since 2016 and have spent most of that time without stable housing. What is the difference between living on your own, and now, with Jason as your partner? LARMARQUIS: I have a little more sense of security. I know that there is actually somebody who has my back no matter what. Sometimes, when you’re living on the streets, you miss out on that because as much as you want to, you can’t trust everybody. So, I’m thankful for him being there. Just having a second pair of eyes. I have his back, and he has my mine. I can see a situation totally differently than he can, so it’s nice to have his take on things. LARMARQUES: Mike Johnston had just become the new mayor, so when the city started sweeping encampments in Denver, they also started putting the people up in hotels. The buses had been free, so it was easy to go back and forth, but when RTD started charging again, we decided we should probably go back [to Denver]. It’s actually more convenient for us to be here because our methadone clinic, my doctor’s office, and all of our things are in Denver. JASON: It was more viable that way. Other than going on adventures, are there any routines you have or rituals you do together? LARMARQUES: We like to have coffee together. When I got back from traveling for Christmas, I bought a kettle and a French press so we could have coffee together in our hotel room. JASON: Larmarques makes great coffee – which reminds me of another reason I fell in love with him. He can cook. He cooks very well. Do you find people are less accepting of you as a gay couple or as individuals experiencing homelessness? LARMARQUES: Denver’s usually pretty good about accepting people who have different types of relationships. I don’t think we’ve had any issues with that part. As far as LARMARQUES: This past summer, we were staying in one of the local shelters. In the middle of the night, Jason got up to use the bathroom and was kicked out of the shelter for having a lighter in his hand. He wasn’t smoking, but they saw it and said “You’re outta here. He didn’t do anything, but he got kicked out. I left the shelter, too then, because I’m not going to let my partner go out there alone, and I’m going to stay with him in solidarity. We ended up staying outside, under the stars, and it was nice. JASON: After that night, we decided to take the bus up to Boulder to check out the shelter situation there. We probably stayed in Boulder for a month or so, and we went back and forth for a while. So, what brought you back to Denver? 10 DENVER VOICE February 2024 SPECIAL FEATURE homelessness, we have had issues with people. For example, if you have a backpack on, people automatically assume that means you’re homeless. JASON: I did have a guy throw the “f” word at me when I was walking with a girl and two guys along Colfax. Larmarques wasn’t with me, but the guy called me a faggot, and I beat the shit out of him. The people I was with pulled me off of him because they worried I could’ve killed him. They pulled me off, and then we left. But that was just the guy’s ignorance. When people have a problem with us being gay, it’s few and far between. For the most part, people look down on us for being homeless, but not because we’re gay. Before you moved to the hotel, how did you find time for intimacy? JASON: We didn’t have any. LARMARQUES: We could have soft moments anywhere, but as far as like, being intimate, it was really hard. We just didn’t. It wasn’t that we didn’t want to…. It’s hard to “get down in a tent.” There’s not enough legroom. There were times when we were invited to someone’s home, and we would have privacy there. I am really glad we have a place now. Now that you are in a place, how is it different? JASON: It’s normal now. I’m a creature of society, but it’s nice to have a place that is our space, where we can be alone. LARMARQUES: It does feel normal. We can take a shower together. He can wash my back, I can wash his. How do you work through any tension between you? LARMARQUES. We argue and then, we just move on to the next thing. We might mention it later, but it’s not a “hold this over the other person’s head” thing. We say what it is that bothers us and then we just move on,” We just have to talk about it first. JASON: It’s good to have someone who can tell you stuff they’re upset about, and you don’t get mad. It’s more of realizing, “Okay, I guess I’ll take a look at myself.” How do you guys support each other emotionally,? JASON: We just know what each other wants. How do you make your relationship work? LARMARQUES: It’s important to always have a sense of wonder. Just be open to suggestions and don’t be afraid to be open to or consider other ways of doing things, or else you’ll be stagnant. It’s nice to be able to be with someone who’s just as openminded to other ways of doing things about things as I am because I can say something completely off the wall to Jason, and he can take it. It’s nice to have someone to bounce ideas off of. JASON: We realize that everybody needs to be more openminded. Be open to suggestions and not so quick to judge somebody because when you do that you might lose out on a lot of meaningful experiences. I don’t judge anybody because I’m trying to learn something new. There is no religious book or doctrine that says you can’t make life better for yourself. That’s what we’re doing. Making life better for ourselves and each other. ■ VALENTINE BY GIGI GALEN February 2024 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS GOING THROUGH CANCER BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR AS I WRITE THIS, it is five days before I have my first chemo treatment, and by the time you read this, I will have one treatment under my belt! I’m hoping to have very few side effects, but I have made up my mind that I will deal with it. I still find myself spacing out and losing sense of time, but I don’t feel bad yet. When I start chemo, all bets are off. I know my time is coming to be sick. I have gotten my house clean and ready for winter. I have stocked up on food and other supplies I will need for what is to come. I still find it hard to believe I have cancer. I know how lucky I am, having whoever read my scan find the tumor as early as they did. I appreciate that I wasn’t told how big it could have grown or how fast it could have moved before it was found. The doctors I have are the best. They care deeply for all of the patients they see every day. If you need anything or have a problem, they do everything they can to help you out. No one knows how they will react to having cancer until the time comes. Don’t listen to people who tell you about what their family member or friend who had cancer went through during their treatment. Don’t listen if they tell you they know someone who had this or that happen, and that you should prepare for what’s coming. Let me tell you something. I have found that everyone’s treatment is different, depending on their cancer and how they react to the treatment. There are so many kinds of cancer, so from the beginning of my treatment, I didn’t listen to anyone but my doctor! I thank God for putting the right people in place to care for me and help me during this time. Don’t put off getting your things in order if you are about to start chemo. If you have a dog who needs walks, line up people before the time comes. Find someone who will help you shop or will shop for you or someone who will pick up your mail from the mailbox for you. I thank God my primary doctor set me up with the best docs to treat me! I thank God even if I’m in pain because a lot of people are in worse pain or didn’t get a chance to wake up at all. I am grateful I can feel anything at all. I thank Him for making it possible to change my life, s so I can write my stories or poems and help others with my writing. I thank God for everyone who will help me during the time I cannot vend the Denver VOICE. I thank God for the Denver VOICE staff, who have become my family because they care so much about me and the other vendors. When you donate to the Denver VOICE or send money via Venmo to your favorite vendors during the winter, it helps them find shelter, so they don’t have to struggle with harsh winter weather. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: KAREN BEEMAN I always thank God for everyone who helps me and other VOICE vendors out when we aren’t able to work. I pray that God will bless everyone who is reading our paper. I will close for now. Monday, I start chemo, and I will keep sharing my story so it may help someone just starting their journey on the road to cancer treatment and recovery. ■ WINTER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: • Socks • Toiletries (individual or travel-size) • Toothpaste, deodorant • Chapstick, sunscreen • Hand warmers 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) • Backpacks, carrier bags • USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE 12 DENVER VOICE February 2024 EVENTS WHEN: Feb 3, Feb 10, Feb 17, Feb 24, 7:30 a.m. COST: Free WHERE: Urban Sanctuary, 2745 Welton St. INFO: urbansanctuary.love ANTI-VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY At this teen event, attendees will make duct-tape roses, a sarcastic beaded bracelet, the ultimate emo playlist, and more! Black, goth, and emo clothing is encouraged. WHEN: Feb 11, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library, 1498 N. Irving St. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events FREE DAY AT THE DENVER ART MUSEUM Enjoy a free day at the museum! Advance ticket reservations are encouraged. WHEN: Feb 13, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. INFO: denverartmuseum.org WINTER OF READING USED BOOK POP-UP SALE Pick up some gently used books to cuddle up with this winter. WHEN: Feb 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Ross-University Hills Branch Library, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events FREAK TRAIN Held the last Monday of each month, Freak Train has remained Denver’s most unique live entertainment experience for more than 20 years. The first 12 people to sign-up get 5 minutes to do anything they want on stage (well, just about anything). It might be the best 5 minutes of your life; it might be the worst. Either way, there’s free beer! WHEN: Feb 26, 7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show COST: $5 WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: bugtheatre.org COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES QUEER COMMUNITY YOGA These classes are specifically designed to nurture inclusivity, overcome inner blocks, and to release societal pressures. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 ACROSS DOWN 1. Computer key above Caps Lock 4. Like chili peppers 9. Breakfast chain 13. Carte start? 14. Small boat 15. Construction site sight 16. Crucial components 18. She had “the face that launched a thousand ships” 19. Get gold or silver 20. Red Sea peninsula 22. Back muscle, familiarly 23. Not impressed 25. Popular pop 27. Family room 28. Vim 30. Listening to Muzak, maybe 31. Compass reading 33. When doubled, a dance 35. Versatile vehicle, for short 36. Oysters or chocolate, according to some 40. “So ___ me!” 41. Giant slugger Mel 42. Receptionist on “The Office” 44. Savory Indian turnover 47. Comedian Notaro 49. Satisfied 51. Approval 54. O’Neill play “The Iceman ___” 56. Disencumber 57. Fable writer 59. “La ___ Vita” 60. Poplar variety 62. Roughhousing 64. Descriptor for Al Yankovic 65. Run off to the chapel 66. Neighbor of Ind. 67. Palm reader, e.g. 68. Chart anew 69. C.I.O.’s partner 1. Rabbi’s text 2. Property recipient, at law 3. Kerchief: Var. 4. Lug 5. Drivel 6. “Last one ___ a rotten egg!” 7. Shaped like a volcano 8. Kind of question with two possible responses 9. Anger 10. Call to the hounds on a hunt 11. Low tie 12. Group of five 15. Italian wine mentioned in “The Silence of the Lambs” 17. Crow cry 21. Unplugged 24. Go down 26. Not spendy at all 29. Vietnamese soup 32. ___ salts 34. “Much ___ About Nothing” 37. Union member, of a sort 38. Addams family member 39. Alabama’s state flower 43. Laurie of “Roseanne” 44. Drinking tubes 45. “It all makes sense now” 46. Child’s makebelieve dessert 48. Try for a long pass 50. “___ never see it coming!” 52. Theater worker 53. First Pulitzer Prize novelist 55. Swabber 58. Occasion for a corsage 61. Goof up 63. Health resort February 2024 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Anonymous Individual Donor Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Matt and Nikki Seashore Cisco Francis Trainer and Trainer Family $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Laurie Duncan and Duncan-Mcwethy Foundation Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Frederic K Conover Trust The Christian Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foundation Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Envestnet $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Joshua Kauer Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Whole Foods Foundation Michael Dino Alex Salva Signs By Tomorrow Rose Community Foundation Russell Peterson Donald Weaver Chris and Susan Pappas Julia and David Watson Gaspar Terrana SEI Giving Fund Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Megan Arellano Lisa Wagner Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver Mathew Rezek The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Elsbeth Williams Christopher Boulanger KO Law Firm Graham Davis Peter Iannuzzi $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson Ruth Henderson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Craig Solomon Christopher Stewart Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity KL&A Engineers and Builders 14 DENVER VOICE February 2024 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, VETERAN SUPPORT COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY LIFT: 5045 W. 1st Ave., Denver; rentassistance.org DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/ treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F 9am-12pm: harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins 303-296-1767; Dental 303-296-4873; M-F 8am-2pm LIVE ANOTHER DAY: 877-596-6866; Equal access to life-saving mental health and substance abuse resources; 24/7 helpline: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepc-connection.org; viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; 988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; 1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic Hours: 7am-4pm M/T/Th/F; 9am-6pm Wed; coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: Helpline 888-493-4670; detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); thehotline.org CAREER SERVICES BAYAUD ENTERPRISES CW-STEP: (Colorado Works - Subsidized training and employment program); 333 W. Bayaud Ave.; 303-830-6885; Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm; Provides re-entry to the workforce for individuals with TANF eligibility; info@bayaudenterprises.org COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER: Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway; 720-865-1706; M & T - 10am-8pm; Wed., Th &F - 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, WIFI, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments; denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER: Denver Dept of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd.; M-F 7:30am-4:30pm; Employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé prep, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc.; careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center WORKNOW: 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITE: 212-461-4401 truecolorsunited.org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, Wed.-Fri.; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.: Aurora 303-399-8020: va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: Veterans Disability Calculator veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE: 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412 Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK: 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours M-F 8-11am urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; sunshinebehavioralhealth.com TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 3080 Broadway, Boulder; 303-447-1207, 303-447-1207; For ages 12-24; Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services; M-Sun, 12:30-5pm; tgthr.org URBAN PEAK: 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; urbanpeak.org February 2024 DENVER VOICE 15 DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777;; Helps with employment, IDs, birth certs, mail services and lockers; M-Th - 10am-2pm; citysquare.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F - 7am-1pm; Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc.; thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc.; M, W, Th, F - 8:30am-5pm, T - 8:30am-1:30pm; tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 E. Colfax; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harmreduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; M-F - 9am-12pm; harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Help with lost IDs and birth certificates; holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM: 1555 Race St.; 303-832-3354; For men and women with HIV; M-F 8am-4pm LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; Day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services; homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, wifi; M-F 7a-5:30p; odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St; 303-297-1576; 6am-6pm daily; Storage for one bag (when space is available); Satellite Clinic hours- M, T, Th. F - 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm; sfcdenver.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee M-F. 8:30am; denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:45-12:15; mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F only: 7am-1pm. 8am breakfast, 11am lunch; havenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY: Food service on second and fourth Thursdays; feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS: Sun. 4 p.m.; 22nd St. Stout St (near Mercury Café); Instagram: @denverfoodnotbombs HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH: 29th and Milwaukee St.; Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm; jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY: 126 W. 2nd Ave.; 303-722-8781 Dinner at 4pm on Tues; Also offers a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available; stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. (Auraria Campus), 11am 7 days/week; food/coffee; stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm; Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon.; saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; soallmayeat.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER: 608 26th St., Thurs dinners, 6pm-7pm; lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St.; breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun.; food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetrofoodnutrition-themission T A B S P I C Y S I N A I I H O P A L A C A N O E C R A N E L I N C H P I N S H E L E N M E D A L L A T U N A W E D C O C A C O L A D E N P E P E N E C H A U T E A P H R O D I S I A C S U E O T T S A M O S A P A M T I G M E T T H U M B S U P C O M E T H R I D A E S O P D O L C E A S P E N H O R S E P L A Y W E I R D E L O P E S E E R R E M A P I L L A F L DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13 O N H O L D

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing housing or financial instability. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Addiction & Recovery In Denver LIVED EXPERIENCE FUELS COMPASSIONATE RECOVERY CENTER. PAGE 6 Remembering PATRICK BALERIO Page 4 GUARANTEED INCOME FOR NEW MOMS WHO ARE FINANCIALLY UNSTABLE NEW MOTHERS, 18 YEARS AND OLDER, COULD QUALIFY FOR GUARANTEED INCOME PROGRAM IN COLORADO. PAGE 5 WOMEN-LED ACTIVISTS CALL FOR FUNDING SOURCES WOMEN AT COP28 CLIMATE CONFERENCE ADDRESS NEED FOR NECESSARY FUNDING IN RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE. PAGE 12 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 10, 11 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JANUARY 2024 | Vol.29 Issue 1 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE IF YOU’RE READING THIS, it means you survived 2023. The way we survive varies from one person to the next, but to make it past any challenge, we all need an abundance of selfconfidence, mental and physical fortitude, and most of all, faith in a higher power. In this issue of the Denver ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR VOICE, you’ll read about Patrick Balerio, a Denver VOICE vendor, who died in November 2023. It may seem contradictory to talk about death when I’m hoping to make a point about survival, but the memories of Patrick’s contributions as a vendor and the love he shared with his friends and family will live on, bringing at least some comfort to everyone whose lives he touched. On page 10 of this issue, Denver VOICE vendors Steve Anson and Rea Brown each commemorate the one-year anniversary of Brian Augustine’s death. Rea’s piece is the final installation of Back on the Streets. This was the column Brian started writing when he discovered he could no longer afford his rent. In both Steve and Rea’s tributes, they mention the challenges that they’ve either encountered or witnessed others deal with when it comes to surviving housing instability. Also in this issue, you’ll see that Raelene Johnson, who usually writes “Self-Talk” poems for our In Your Own Words section, has written about her recent cancer diagnosis and the steps she is taking mentally and physically to overcome her self-doubt and survive radiation, chemotherapy and regular checkups that are part of her treatment. No one knows what’s in store for 2024. No doubt, there will be difficult days ahead, but during the darkest moments, it may help to remember the wisdom of Denver VOICE vendors. The way vendors have overcome so many challenges and continue to muster the confidence, inner strength, and faith in a power greater than themselves is the perfect inspiration for surviving the worst. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, the Colorado Sun, and Medium.com. 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. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen WRITERS Lando Allen Steve Anson Rea Brown Giles Clasen Robert Davis Connie Gaitan Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith Alyssa Will BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Michael Burkley Cassandria Carmouche Antonio Diaz 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 2 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE January 2024 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR JASON MARTIN. Q A What is your most memorable moment of 2023? LANDO ALLEN The most memorable thing that happened to me was the illness that put me in the hospital. It made me think about everything I was doing. I felt helpless and I needed help to get things done. I couldn’t even sell the VOICE. I’m glad I got better. That illness showed me that I need to work harder, push for my goals, and get better. It showed me that I [need] to do more stuff. CONNIE GAITAN (DENVER VOICE PROGRAM COORDINATOR) The most memorable moment in the year 2023 for me was the day my great nephew Cyore Smith was born. I had been waiting & anticipating all night and day to finally meet and hold my precious boy. When I walked into the hospital room to greet my family, the nurse walked in with Cyore, and I cried. Writing this now, I get emotional thinking of all the worry I had for my baby boy to be healthy and strong - and then, there he was in my arms. He just melted my entire heart, and I knew at that moment he was going to be the most precious little “Sir Squishams” in my life and that I would do anything for him! JASON MARTIN My most memorable moment without a doubt is that on August 3rd, Ivy Jade Vincent was born into the Martin Family. She also looks identical to my daughter Meghan. This gives me more motivation to do the right thing and be a loving, knowledgeable grandfather to this wonderful child. JERRY ROSEN The most memorable moment was selling the Denver VOICE paper. I really enjoy working with the VOICE. LARMARQUES SMITH (“MISHA”) It was a very hot uneventful Saturday afternoon. Jason and I had just left the Aurora Day Resource Center and decided to go on a walk. This was not out of the ordinary for us. We were walking down Colfax Avenue when something caught our eye. I found a pack of cigarettes, but Jason found what would make our day… more than $800 cash on the side of the road. There was no one around, so we got to keep the money, free and clear. Needless to say, we used that money to improve our situation. Also, we each got new phones! ALYSSA WILL My most memorable moments of 2023 was seeing all of the beautiful parts of Denver for the first time, like Washington Park (which was my favorite), the river, the trails, and now, the Christmas lights! HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. January 2024 DENVER VOICE 3

SAYING GOODBYE TO PATRICK BALERIO BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN IN EARLY NOVEMBER, we learned that Denver VOICE vendor Patrick Balerio passed away. When I first came to the VOICE in July 2019, Patrick stopped by the office regularly to purchase papers. Then, the pandemic hit, and the last time I saw Patrick was in 2021. B time, foot traffic in Downtown Denv had slowed down significantly Although regular customers had grown used to not seeing y. VOICE vendors in the area, I heard comments from several readers about how much they missed seeing Patrick’s smile or hearing his warm greetings. Even though he didn’t return to vending the VOICE PATRICK BALERIO’S DESIGN FOR THE 2016 WRAPPING PAPER ISSUE ver after 2021, Patrick remained a part of the Denver VOICE community. Those who were fortunate to know him remember Patrick as a kind and caring person with a passion for learning. He also was a wonderful ler whose stories our w resonated readers. Patrick always ove to better himself and the world around him. While he is perhaps the only one who could gauge how successful he was at bettering himself, anyone who knew and loved him can say with certainty that Patrick Balerio made the world a much better and brighter place. ■ 4 DENVER VOICE January 2024 COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT WINTER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. PHOTO BY KEVIN LIANG ON UNSPLASH COLORADO PILOTS GUARANTEED INCOME PROGRAM FOR NEW MOMS BY ROBERT DAVIS NEW MOTHERS over the age of 18 who are experiencing economic hardship could qualify for a new guaranteed income program aimed at supporting maternal and infant health. The program is called the Healthy Beginnings Project, and it will provide 20 new moms with $750 monthly payments for 15 months. Payments are made biweekly, and the first payments were distributed via debit cards on Nov. 30, 2023. Participants can receive an additional $600 in cash incentives for attending medical appointments as well. A company called Goldbug, which makes infant and children’s accessories, is leading the initiative in partnership with national nonprofits such as Income Movement and Impact Charitable, both of which have partnered with other Colorado-based guaranteed income programs like Elevate Boulder and the Denver Basic Income Project. “The maternal health crisis is sadly nothing new, but meaningful solutions to it are,” Goldbug CEO Katherine Gold said in a press release. “My hope is that this program can help us build toward a future in which new moms and their babies have the peace of mind and proven benefits of financial stability, not just in Colorado, but across the country.” Maternal and infant health has become a growing concern in Colorado, and across the U.S. since the pandemic began. A report from the Government Accountability Office found that pregnant women became more susceptible to medical complications from COVID-19, including severe illness and death because the virus impacted their already weakened cardiovascular and immune systems. In turn, the maternal death rate for Black women grew from 44 per 100,000 live births to 68.9 per 100,000 between 2019 and 2021, an increase of 56.5%, the GAO found. The maternal death rate for white and Latinx women also increased by 53% and 44%, respectively. Federal programs like the expanded Child Tax Credit in 2021 were designed to help these households afford necessary costs like medical care, but few recipients spent their benefits on these items. Instead, data from the Niskanen Center found that CTC recipients spent 58% of their benefits on housing and food. Less than 5% of the benefits were spent on health care costs. These figures were even higher for families on the lowest end of the income spectrum. Recent research from Columbia University suggests that providing cash benefits to expectant mothers in lowincome earning households can improve health outcomes for mothers and infants alike. First, cash benefits can give expectant mothers resources to access health care and stable housing. The benefit can also reduce stressors that contribute to unhealthy births, according to the research. “As a result, the presence (or absence) of more (or less) income in the pregnancy period may enhance (or jeopardize) birth and infant outcomes,” the research states. “And these resources and deficits can impact health, development, and well-being throughout the life course.” ■ @DenverVOICE NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant Chapstick, sunscreen Hand warmers 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) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! January 2024 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE LIVED EXPERIENCE FUELS COMPASSIONATE RECOVERY CARE BY GILES CLASEN SALLY GIBBENS REMEMBERS HER MOST FRIGHTENING OVERDOSE. She had been using heroin and other drugs for years and overdosed a handful of times. Unmoved by those experiences, she refused to change the trajectory of her life. But that changed in 2015. Gibbens had just picked up her friend Natalie and parked in a bowling alley parking lot in downtown Duluth, Minnesota. Gibbens felt sick. It had been nearly a day and a half since she last scored her drug of choice. Now she was in the earliest phases of heroin withdrawal. Natalie shot up first. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head, and she slumped moments after pushing the drug into her vein. Then, her breathing slowed. Gibbens recognized immediately that Natalie had overdosed, and her friend’s only chance of surviving was to get to a hospital as quickly as possible. But she delayed making the trip to the hospital. She needed to get high first. According to Gibbens, she thought to herself, “I’m too sick to drive. I’m going to do less than what Natalie did.” Gibbens needed the hit. Then, she would be able to drive Natalie to the ER . “At the time, it was more important to me to get that fix than to take my friend to the emergency room,” Gibbens said. Gibbens found a vein and coerced the needle in. She pushed the plunger. Once Gibbens felt the comfort of her high, she drove off, blood dripping down her arm. She turned right from the parking lot down a steep hill. Everything went dark within seconds. Gibbens woke up in an ambulance screaming a wretched, desperate wail. She could see her car smashed into the Duluth library and paramedics trying to revive Natalie. “I just knew there were going to be a lot of repercussions for my actions,” Gibbens said. DISCOVERING URBAN PEAKS Today, Gibbens works as the office administrator for Urban Peaks Rehab. The small medical office, near Colfax and Park Avenues, specializes in offering medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, for opioid use disorder. What sets Urban Peaks Rehab apart from other addiction treatment programs is that most of the small staff have faced opiate or opioid addiction. They understand what it is like to crave the drugs. They also know what it means to go through withdrawal and what life after drug use can look like. Urban Peaks Rehab’s founder and medical director, Dr. Chad Johnston, shifted his practice to addiction treatment after his own fight with opioids and opiates. He started using tramadol while working in the intensive care unit, just before his medical residency. “I was working in the ICU, and we had this guy collect the meds and usually dispose of them,” Johnston said. “There was often some stuff left in there, and I started stealing the leftover pills.” Johnston didn’t realize it at the time, but he was depressed. Throughout life, his father pushed him to succeed. The ERIKA GONZALES DOESN’T BELIEVE SHE WOULD BE SOBER WITHOUT THE PERSONAL CONNECTION SHE BUILT WITH URBAN PEAKS REHAB STAFF. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 6 DENVER VOICE January 2024 COMMUNITY PROFILE pressure made everything in Johnston’s life black and white, win or lose. Everything was a competition. Johnston had made most of his decisions to win his father’s affection. In 1999, determined to please his father, Johnston upended his life to start medical school. He was 30 years old and one of the oldest in his class. It took him years to acknowledge that his behavior was a problem. “It was about two years or three years ago that I realized,” Johnston said. “The depression was out of control because nothing I did was enough. That pressure builds until you find a release. For me, sadly, my release was tramadol first, and later, morphine.” When Johnston first took the tramadol, he thought it was a risk-free high. It was marketed as a synthetic opioid that worked differently on the brain than traditional prescription pain medications. This led researchers and the Food and Drug Administration to deem it a safe alternative to stronger painkillers like Percocet or Oxycontin. With time, it became clear that tramadol came with its own baggage, and it proved to be addictive and destructive, too. In 2014, the Drug Enforcement Administration labeled tramadol a Schedule IV controlled substance. “I can’t believe I didn’t know more about opiates,” Johnston said. “We had no training in medical school at all. I thought [tramadol] was safe, or at least safer.” Johnston abused tramadol throughout his residency in 2003. He would prescribe too many pills for patients and pocket the extra. In a pinch, he ordered them online. When Johnston began his fellowship in hospice care, he moved from tramadol to liquid morphine. It was easy to steal the bottles from patients’ rooms, often after they died. “I really enjoyed helping people at the end of their life, but it got me all sideways, all those drugs around,” Johnston said. “I was so selfish then. That’s what the drugs do. They make you so fucking selfish. It’s a selfishness that you can’t even describe.” In 2010, Johnston decided he needed to get sober. “That’s when my wife at the time came to me and said, ‘You know, we’re in a small town. Here’s the newspaper. Look at the front page. You’re going to be right there, and it’s going to say you’re a drug addict,’” Johnston said. Johnston checked himself into a Florida rehab facility the following week. He doesn’t remember the exact cost of the facility but thought he spent in the neighborhood of $50,000$80,000. Johnston said he knows he was lucky to be able to pay such high costs when so many others can’t. “[My wife] knew I was that vain and that shallow,” Johnston said. “She knew what card to play to motivate me, and I applaud her for it. It was such a wonderful move because it saved my life, even if she did leave me later. Rightly so, probably.” CREATING A PATIENT-FIRST MODEL In rehab, Johnston began taking Suboxone to prevent drug cravings and avoid withdrawal symptoms. Suboxone was one of the first new MATs for opiate and opioid addiction. It is a daily treatment that can be prescribed by a doctor and taken at home. It differs from methadone, another MAT, because of its ease of use. One must generally go to a methadone treatment center daily to receive their dose. This inconvenience with methadone treatment can lead to failure and relapse, while Suboxone can be taken safely outside of medical supervision. For Johnston, Suboxone was a game changer. It helped him become and stay sober. But addiction had torn his life apart. He didn’t work for a year, and then, he tried returning to hospice care. It didn’t work for him. Then, the clinic treating his addiction offered him a job. He changed the focus of his life to serving individuals who battled addiction like him. DR. CHAD JOHNSTON WANTS EVERYONE TO KNOW THAT THE TREATMENT IS AVAILABLE TO ALMOST ANYONE SEEKING RECOVERY. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN January 2024 DENVER VOICE 7 URBAN PEAKS PATIENTS POST PERSONAL NOTES OF THINGS THEY ARE GRATEFUL FOR. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Lured by Colorado’s beauty, Johnston moved to Denver. He founded Urban Peaks Rehab in 2018, with a vision to create a new patient-first model for addiction treatment. Johnston appreciated what rehab had done for him, but after working in an addiction treatment clinic, he also saw how rehab was big business. According to Johnston, higher revenues in the industry were too heavily motivated by dollars rather than care. Johnston realized that for many individuals, it was difficult to receive life-saving MAT treatment because of the costs and stigma. He heard stories about doctors putting up burdens to receive treatment. Many told Johnston that when they sought help, several medical professionals shamed them. Johnston even heard stories about patients being refused treatment because some doctors believed that if an individual got themselves into drug addiction, they had to pull themselves up by their bootstraps to get out of addiction. “It makes no sense to me that providers would shame anyone who ever came into their office, but it happens all the time,” Johnston said. “We have these amazing treatments that make recovery easier and less painful than in the past and individuals struggle to find someone to prescribe [MATs] because of [the common conceptions] of who and addict is and what they deserve — which is nothing.” Continued on page 8

COMMUNITY PROFILE SALLY GIBBENS SHOWS HER TATTOO OF SINGER AMY WINEHOUSE, WHO STRUGGLED WITH ADDICTION TO DRUGS AND ALCOHOL. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN WITH SUBLOCADE, MANY CAN END TREATMENT AFTER SIX MONTHS WITHOUT EXPERIENCING FURTHER CRAVINGS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Continued from page 7 Johnston started a six-month treatment of Sublocade in 2023. Sublocade is a next-generation MAT treatment. Approved by the FDA in 2017, Sublocade is a monthly shot in the abdomen that slowly releases buprenorphine, the same active ingredient in Suboxone. Johnston noted that the biggest difference between Sublocade and Suboxone is that Suboxone is a daily treatment taken in perpetuity. But with Sublocade, many can end treatment after six months without experiencing further cravings. Medicaid and many insurance plans cover both treatments in Colorado, and the manufacturer has copay assistance programs. Outpatient MAT is an affordable treatment option compared to lengthy in-treatment programs. Johnston knows that most can’t afford the type of rehab he utilized because of the cost. He wants everyone to know that the treatment is available to almost anyone seeking recovery. Johnston also believes MAT isn’t enough to help someone truly overcome their addiction. He has brought a counselor onto his team to help offer more extensive support and services to his patients. He and Gibbens want Urban Peaks Rehab to provide patients with a greater chance at overcoming addiction. The clinic has helped more than 20 people complete the Sublocade regime. Today, those individuals are living successfully in recovery, unassisted by medication. Many more patients are actively in treatment and not using drugs. “I see the system fail clients almost every day,” Gibbens said. “We have individuals who come in without a thing and don’t know how to navigate Medicaid or anything else. They just know they need help and want to be sober. So, I guess I am proud that I can now help anyone apply for Medicaid and begin treatment. [Applying for Medicaid] wasn’t a skill I ever thought I would need or develop. But if I can take down a barrier [to treatment], then I am excited I have the know-how.” TAKING THE NEXT STEP Gibbens ultimately made it to recovery through MAT treatment at Urban Peaks Rehab. She started working at the clinic as a medical tech. Today, she manages all aspects of the “WE HAVE INDIVIDUALS WHO COME IN WITHOUT A THING AND DON’T KNOW HOW TO NAVIGATE… THEY JUST KNOW THEY NEED HELP AND WANT TO BE SOBER.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN office, whether marketing, providing emotional support for the patients, or billing insurance and Medicaid. Taking the next step in her recovery, Gibbens recently started therapy. She is processing a lot, like the abuse she suffered as a child, experiencing homelessness off and on, and the ghosts of her years as an addict, including that day in the parking lot with her friend Natalie. That is one of the ghosts she cannot leave behind. Natalie didn’t die that day in Duluth. Paramedics revived her with naloxone, a drug to treat overdoses. But Natalie didn’t seek treatment, and her luck ran out about a year later when she passed away from an overdose. It would be impossible to describe Gibbens as selfish today. She doesn’t spend much time thinking about herself. Her focus is on giving second, third, and fourth chances to people who need help. She spends each day encouraging each patient as they go through treatment. Gibbens also helps clients find housing, or sober living if they need it. The staff at Urban Peaks Rehab recognizes that many patients need more than medical treatment to become sober and move forward. ■ To seek help for addiction or learn more about Urban Peaks Rehab, visit urbanpeaksrehab.com. 8 DENVER VOICE January 2024 COMMUNITY PROFILE ERICA’S STORY ERICA GONZALES finished her Sublocade treatment last March. Today, she works for Urban Peaks Rehab as a medical technician. Gonzales said she began abusing drugs and alcohol because she wanted to feel numb. According to Gonzales, her family was unsupportive when she told them she was a lesbian at age 12. Gonzales’s dad died from suicide not long after. “Dad was always around, he was just an alcoholic. He was a drug addict. And so, I’ve always seen that drug addiction side of life,” Gonzales said. She blames herself for his death. Her parents had split up, and her father asked her if she believed there was a chance that her mom would take him back. Gonzales said no and watched him deflate. The next day, he took his life. Gonzales understands that a 12-year-old isn’t responsible for taking care of their parents, but she can’t shake the thought that she hurt him. “You can’t take that back. Words are powerful. So. I have to live with that,” she said. Gonzales began drinking heavily around that time. She began using Percocet when she was in her early teens, stealing it from her mom’s purse and medicine cabinets. By age 14, Gonzales was taking Percocet daily. “Percs were the comfort I’d been looking for,” Gonzales said. “I no longer felt guilty [about being a lesbian and my father’s death] when I was high. I felt no shame, guilt, nothing. That’s just something I continued to chase until it became a living hell.” Gonzales switched to oxycodone when it was too difficult to find Percocet. Then she smoked heroin when the pills became too expensive. At age 15, she injected heroin for the first time. “I knew I shouldn’t have done that,” Gonzales said. “I could tell that black cloud was going to follow me, and that shadow followed me everywhere. After the [first] hit, I remember waking up wanting to do more. I just thought, ‘Is this what it’s like? Is this what heroin addicts feel? Am I one now?’” After being expelled from high school for dealing drugs, and being hit with multiple arrests for shoplifting, Gonzales entered rehab. After three weeks, Gonzales had her dealer pick her up. She tried MAT at another clinic but felt the doctors didn’t care about her. They rushed her out of the office with a prescription but no support. “It was a bad experience because you’d sit there for an hour and see the doctor for like five minutes,” Gonzales said. You could tell they didn’t give a shit. They just saw you as an addict and nothing more.” Gonzales eventually stumbled into Urban Peaks Rehab and began Suboxone treatment. But she didn’t stop using. Instead, Gonzales timed her heroin use around the Suboxone. It was Sally Gibbens, along with former Urban Peaks Rehab staff member Brittany Kitchens, who helped Gonzales commit to her treatment and stop using. And when the office needed a new medical technician, Gonzales applied. “I don’t think Doc [Johnston] was sure about hiring me,” Gonzales said. “I think he was the most skeptical because he knew me. I was just a shitshow when I started here. But once I was given the opportunity, it gave me something I didn’t have… something I needed.” Gonzales said she knows the most important part of her job is being available to help others as they go through treatment. She doesn’t believe she would be sober without the personal connection she built with Urban Peaks Rehab staff. “As much as Sally and Brittany were there for me, that’s what I’m trying to be to [current patients],” Gonzales said. “A lot of the people just feel abandoned. Like they don’t matter in this world. That’s how addicts feel. You can get to where you feel like, ‘What’s the point? It’s easier to die than get better.’ People are tired of trying. I just try to be here for addicts when they feel that way. I get on their level with them and I tell them I was an addict too. It gets better.” While Gonzales is still building her life, she said she is content that she has a home and a job. She has security that she had never experienced before and worked hard to get this far. ■ DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org AN URBAN PEAKS STAFF MEMBER PROVIDES COMFORT TO A PATIENT. THE URBAN PEAKS TEAM VIEWS SUPPORTING AND INTERACTING WITH PATIENTS AS THEIR PRIMARY JOB. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN January 2024 DENVER VOICE 9

IN YOUR OWN WORDS OUR BACK ON THE STREETS COLUMN was the brainchild of longtime Denver VOICE vendor Brian Augustine, who passed away on January 5, 2023. When he died, Brian was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to living on the streets, after realizing he could no longer afford his rent. In honor of Brian’s legacy, various vendors decided that through the remainder of 2023, they would continue sharing stories of life on the streets that they either experienced or observed. Rea Brown wrote this final installment of Back on the Streets to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Brian’s passing. Additionally, Denver VOICE vendor Steve Anson wrote about the influence Brian’s life and death have had on him. BACK ON THE STREETS The final column BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR INFLUENCE A tribute to Brian, one year after his passing BY STEVE ANSON, VOICE VENDOR REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN IF THERE IS ONE THING some people haven’t noticed – primarily because of the nightlife on the 16th Street Mall has been greatly aborted due to construction – is the number of homeless sleepers that used to mark the entrance of many of the closed stores with partially sheltered doors. Of such was Denver VOICE vendor Brian Augustine, when he had to choose a safe place to rest for the night. With the Mall having security 24 hours, seven days a week, it’s no wonder some of the peaceful homeless population gravitated to it. Of all the years I’ve worked vending the VOICE on the Mall, I can’t remember a time, when a regular Mall sleeper trashed a storefront. However, I do remember a situation with my buddy Bob*, who slept in the same spot, on the same street, at the same time for years. One night, as I sat about half a block away from the spot, where Bob rested, I watched intently as a group of young men (who were clearly not homeless) approached Bob. Looking around as if they didn’t want to be noticed – apparently, in their mischievous desire to harass an old Native, whom they possibly deemed as a freeloader of society – the young men seemed to consider whether they should actually approach Bob as he slept. Then, as they stepped closer and closer, it was clear that something bad might be about to happen. 10 DENVER VOICE January 2024 Of course, you may be wondering why I just didn’t run over and do/say something, and the truth is that this was not a movie, this was happening in real-time, which means a matter of seconds. They got as close to Bob as they could get before they had to make their final decision. And, by the grace of God, they looked at each other, and if I remember correctly, they laughed and then kept walking. That was a close call, but every story doesn’t have a happy ending, just like every story is not always the contributors vs. the freeloaders. I recall a story I heard from a woman, where two homeless guys thought a poor guy got a lot of money from somewhere, so they tried to rob him and accidentally killed him. Or another time, was when one of my Chess-playing friends got housing, but he had to live by a certain set of rules which included no drinking. It is believed that this friend died from drinking Listerine. I guess the lesson of this final Back on the Streets segment is that every year, almost 200 people die from homelessness. So, most of the homeless people have to come to accept there are at least two things that are certain “Death and Change.” R.I.P Brian Augustine. ■ *JSUK: A few months later Bob got his housing and has been off the streets for years. Even at that early hour, Brian would smile, never forcing his face; whereas my case manager was at best, glib, with a smile that I can only describe as “a gymnast who just failed her routine.” (In college, she was a gymnast, so she was wellpracticed at that forced grin.) We all influence each other. Indeed, we directly and indirectly affect how our society acts and is perceived by the world at large. For example, the media is sometimes referred to as “the fourth estate in American Democracy,” because of how it informs and educates the public. It is a part of the system of checks and balances, a delicate, fragile system essential to keeping our leaders from attempting to plunge us into authoritarianism. I am but a tiny part of this beautiful experiment in governance. As a contributor to the VOICE, Brian was part of that media, too. This morning as I was vending the VOICE, I allowed my memory to drift back to December 1979, when I was fortunate enough to attend a Bob Marley and the Wailers concert at the University of Denver. That memory came back to me as lyrics from Marley’s song, “Slave Driver,” played in my head. “Today, they say that we are free / only to be chained in poverty…” And suddenly, I was here. Now. A generous passer-by let me know she did not want a paper, but she handed me two dollars and said, “This is for you. Your great attitude every morning really helps me.” I breathed a sigh of relief, for that two dollars was enough to cover the monthly payment to maintain my website. I was in quite the financial pinch when I chose to begin vending again. In November 2022, I became very familiar with the consequences of a bleeding ulcer. At first, I mistook the blood I vomited for coffee. (I love a good cuppa, especially the Sumatra blend I now drink.) I finished vomiting and hobbled back to bed. Early the following morning, I had to vomit again. This time, I grabbed my phone before not quite making it to the toilet. When paramedics showed up at my door, I was disconnected from reality, and when I returned, I was in a bed in Denver Health’s ICU. When I returned to the here and now, I was informed that I had lost seven liters of blood and had nearly died. During the next five days, I had ample opportunity to meditate, which is something that is not easy to do in a hospital bed. The form of meditation I practice approximates REM sleep, so one gets a chance to dream while fully conscious. As I meditated, one of my dominant thoughts was of my STEVE ANSON. CREDIT: JAMES KAY ABOUT 10 DAYS AGO, I got tossed about in time. Perhaps this event is a consequence of aging. A generous donor had just handed me a five-dollar bill, told me he was a former Denver VOICE vendor, got his paper, then . . . gone. Fast forward to this morning, when I got a friendly shove back into “the ever-present now.” A man jogged past me at my usual post. He greeted me with, “Good morning, Steve Anson,” and from that greeting, I knew he was a careful reader of the VOICE. Nine or so years ago, I was on my way to an appointment with my neurologist. Though it was close to the end of the month, I had an extra five bucks. At the same corner where I now vend, I approached Brian Augustine who, until he passed away a year ago, occupied that spot. I handed Brian the five dollars, and he handed me a copy of the VOICE. I explained I was in a rush. He said, “Thank you,” and I hobbled onward with my walker. On my bus ride to the doc, I puzzled over Brian and his style of vending. I kept thinking – because of my dealing with my then case manager where I live – of Brian’s sincerity when greeting folks at 7 a.m. apartment and my expectation that my rent would probably be increased when I got back to it. No such notification ever reached me (though the rent had been increased); nor was I made aware of this increase for several months afterward. By the time all this was resolved, I was $160 in arrears to an organization that has consistently treated me with so much disrespect that when I would approach the front door of the building, I would say to myself, sometimes aloud, “Welcome back to Hell.” A couple of months after my release from the hospital, I saw in my Google Chrome feed on my phone, that Brian Augustine had died. Around that same time, Christine McVie died, as well. (She was, in my snobbish view, far too overlooked in Fleetwood Mac.) After that discovery, I was saddened every time I passed the corner, where Brian had vended, and McVie’s “Songbird” would occasionally play in my mind. So, Brian, these may be McVie’s words, but as I think of them, they are for you. “And I love you, I love you, I love you / Like never before, like never before / Like never before. ■ Slave Driver lyrics © Fifty Six Hope Road Music Ltd., Blackwell Fuller Music Publishing LLC. Songbird lyrics © Universal Music - Careers, Kuzu Music. IN YOUR OWN WORDS THE BIG C BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR FIRST, I WANT TO THANK everyone who has been there for me – especially those customers who have become friends over the years. In October, I was told I had cancer, and for the next five days, things went fast. I am grateful the cancer was found so early, but with all of this, I felt numb. I felt shut down. On Halloween afternoon, I had surgery, and so far, everything has continued to go quickly. Radiation is not so bad. I will be done with it in three days. Chemo starts in January. I thank my higher power for [inspiring] all of the self-talk poems I have written. When you have to go through hard times, if you allow negativity in, you will call bad things to you. The universe will give you what you want. I choose to stay positive. Always! My self-talk poems have given me the strength and positivity I need to get through my cancer treatment. I feel like I’m on a rollercoaster of emotion – from not believing I have cancer to wondering what’s next, scans happening quickly to find it, surgery to test it, radiation and chemo to stop it. I think chemo will be the hardest to go through. I know I have a good team to take care of me. My primary doctor had cancer, so when she learned that I had it, she made sure I had access to her team of doctors to treat me. When I found that out, I felt blessed. I know I am in great hands! Most days, I’m okay, but there are bad days. On the days I feel sad, I catch myself and say, “It’s okay. You will be okay. It was found so very early. Stay positive. It is just a bump on the road of life. Just one more fight to win.” So now, my memories are of life before cancer and soon, life after cancer. Once I get through chemo, I will go for a check-up every six months to keep an eye on my body and make sure the cancer doesn’t come back. I just ask for your prayers. The best thing to come out of this is that I didn’t pass the cancer gene on to my children. I have told them, “If you get cancer, you can’t blame it on me.” I think of how bad it would be to pass that on. ■ RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA “ICE SCULPTURE” BY GIGI GALEN January 2024 DENVER VOICE 11

INTERNATIONAL STORY from longer-term shifts that force them to go further for daily chores such as collecting water. At the COP28 summit, the host nation, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), backed by more than 60 countries, on 4 December launched an initiative aimed at achieving “gender-responsive just transitions” and giving women more economic power so that they do not lose out as societies shift to a lower-carbon model. The UAE said that the new COP28 partnership will produce better-quality data to support decision-making, target finance flows to the regions most impacted by climate change, and strengthen education and skills, with a focus on women who are already suffering disproportionately as the planet warms. Fijian gender minister Lynda Tabuya told an event on the sidelines of COP28 that in her Pacific island nation, more powerful cyclones, intense heatwaves, and rising seas are affecting women by fuelling poverty, migration, health risks, and their care burden. “These issues deeply affect the safety and the wellbeing of our children, and women and girls,” she said. Climate finance needs to be accessible and beneficial for women, she added, calling for more data on the challenges they face and recognition of their unpaid care work, as well as climate finance that supports green skills training and women-led businesses. PHOTO BY GYAN SHAHANE ON UNSPLASH SHOW US THE CLIMATE MONEY, WOMEN LEADERS AND ACTIVISTS TELL COP28 BY MEGAN ROWLING WHEN STEPHANIE AKRUMAH founded the Centre for Green Growth, a Ghanaian organization that trains women in the country on how to adapt to climate change, she used her own money, convinced that she was doing the right thing. Then she received a small amount of funding from the international aid agency CARE to carry out training in communities. Now the young activist is on the hunt for new sources of finance to expand the education that she says is crucial for Ghanaian women to respond to impacts like flash floods on their farms. But in several months of trying, it has proved “extremely difficult” to find, due to onerous processes and requirements for accessing international funding. That is effectively freezing out local women’s groups working on climate change, she and others have said. On Monday 4 December, as the COP28 UN climate conference in Dubai focused on finance and gender equity, new figures from CARE showed that women’s rights organizations received less than 0.2% of Britain’s climate finance in 2022 – and less than 1% of that aid specifically targeted gender equality. “There has to be another way,” said Akrumah, calling for easier, simpler access for women-led groups to obtain money from wealthy governments and global funds. CARE pointed to unequal gender representation at the climate negotiations as another barrier for women seeking to gain more access to climate finance. Women make up only 38% of registered COP28 delegates, according to UK-based climate website Carbon Brief. That is an increase of just 1% compared to COP27 – although the share has risen steadily over the years. JUSTICE AND EFFICIENCY Nicholas Stern, a leading British economist who co-chairs an independent high-level expert group on climate finance, told Context that ensuring women get the funding they need to respond to climate change and develop their societies at the same time is a question both of justice and efficiency. When it comes to efforts to boost agriculture, health, or education, “if you have more women involved, it all works better,” he noted, adding that the evidence of that has become stronger over the past two decades. One effective way to get money to women is through direct cash transfers, he said, citing India’s digital identification program as a channel to target women with payments that can help to build their resilience to threats including climate change. “The most difficult thing and the most unjust thing for women would be not to do much,” he said, noting that women suffer most both when weather disasters hit and also NO GENDER-SPECIFIC TARGETS A lack of comprehensive data on how climate change is affecting women specifically, and on the funding available to them, has hampered efforts aimed at helping them to adapt by planting resilient crops or using solar energy instead of dirty diesel generators. A new paper from the UK-based thinktank Overseas Institute noted that there are no genderDevelopment equality-specific targets for climate finance, but governments at UN climate talks had committed to increasing “gender-responsiveness”. The researchers found that in 2021, out of a total of $28 billion in adaptation funding from developed countries, $12.2 billion had gender equality as an objective, according to donors. But 40% was not screened for gender equality when reported, leaving “great uncertainty” over how much adaptation finance has that goal, ODI said. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley said that to help women, it is first important to get more climate finance flowing for vulnerable island states and developing countries at the global level by addressing the barriers preventing them from accessing money from development banks and the private sector. “The reality is that most of the things we are trying to do are taking too long to benefit the people it’s intended to benefit,” she told journalists. For example, women are staying behind to look after families and homes as climate change pushes men to seek work elsewhere, she said, arguing that the best way to help them is to ease debt burdens in their countries, freeing up national funds that could then help people “on the frontline”, she said. Getting women on board with the transformations needed for less-polluting lifestyles also is essential, she added. “If we’re going to change how we live and how we move and how we farm, we’re going to have to do it at the level of families – which means that women’s acceptance of the necessity for change is pivotal in order to be able to get that success,” she said. ■ Courtesy of Context / INSP.ngo. Context is powered by the Thomson Reuters Foundation Newsroom. 12 DENVER VOICE January 2024 EVENTS POETRY SLAM This weekly poetry slam has been around since 1997! Come listen to the battle or sign-up to compete for the $50 weekly prize. WHEN: Sundays, sign-ups at 7:30 p.m., event at 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St. INFO: mercurycafe.com FREE WEEKLY BREATHWORK CLASS You are invited every Wednesday to experience the benefits of breathwork. Learn how to breathe fully with this simple and effective method. Start your journey towards greater health, peace, and vitality today. WHEN: Wednesdays, 11 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. COST: Free but you must register online. WHERE: Online INFO: souldimension.org PALLET CITY COMEDY: OPEN MIC We all need a laugh after the holidays. Come check out this weekly open mic to either listen to some jokes or try your hand at stand-up. WHEN: Thursdays, sign-ups at 7 p.m., event at 7:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Monkey Barrel, 4401 Tejon St. INFO: facebook.com/Palletcitycomedy COOKING ON-DEMAND Whether you’re looking to make empanadas, pierogies, fondue, quiche, or tapas, this online library of cooking classes will make your tummy growl. In-person classes available as well. WHEN: Anytime COST: $35 WHERE: Online INFO: theseasonedchef.com/cooking-on-demand ULLRGRASS MUSIC & BEER FESTIVAL Come celebrate 10 eyars of UllGrass! Festival-goers dress in Viking regalia and celebrate community, live music, performing arts, and craft beer. WHEN: Jan 26 – Jan 28, times vary COST: $10 and up WHERE: Parfet Park, 725 10th St. INFO: ullrgrass.com COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 ACROSS DOWN Across 1. Attempt 5. French clerics 10. Fuzz 14. ___ Bell 15. Kind of fund 16. Grander than grand 17. Beehive, e.g. 18. Brawl 19. Emulated Pinocchio 20. Opinionated passenger 23. Dermatologist’s concern 24. “Ugh, keep that to yourself!” 25. Book after Job 28. Clicked on the paper clip icon, say 33. Beige 34. Inside info 35. Mariner’s dir. 36. Accountant’s bread and butter 40. Blood-typing letters 41. Committee head 42. Lago contents 43. Archaic term for the left side of a boat (which rhymes with the current term for the right side) 45. “I want my baby back” chain 47. Austrian peak 48. God with a hammer 49. Bad quality in a confidant 56. Brainchild 57. Shade of green 58. Red sign in a movie theater 59. Enormous birds of myth 60. Really liked something, in slang 61. Prefix with phone and vision 62. The “E” of BPOE 63. Kind of question with two options 64. Glasgow native 1. Ticket memento 2. Spanish appetizer 3. Flexible, electrically 4. Oprah has one 5. Size up 6. Goat sound 7. Something a goat might do with its head (not its rear) 8. Cornerstone abbr. 9. 2000 pounds, precisely 10. ___ floor exercises 11. Mayberry kid 12. Take a long walk off a short ___ 13. Anxious condition, for short 21. Prefix with phony and pathetic 22. Apple ad phrase 25. Prison-related 26. Diver’s gear 27. Knight’s protection 28. Bitter 29. ___ de force 30. Katherine of “Grey’s Anatomy” and “27 Dresses” 31. Boredom 32. “Ballet Rehearsal” artist Edgar 34. Leave a lasting mark on 37. Dangerous bacteria 38. “Bohemian ___” 39. Lunch ladies’ headgear 44. Totally awesome 45. Snack that might turn your fingers orange 46. All the rage 48. “Can We Talk” singer Campbell 49. Favorite 50. Make out 51. Sleuth’s find 52. Fixes, in a way 53. Corporate VIP 54. Fodder holder 55. Leave in, to an editor 56. Anger January 2024 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, VETERAN SUPPORT COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY LIFT: 5045 W. 1st Ave., Denver; rentassistance.org DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/ treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F 9am-12pm: harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins 303-296-1767; Dental 303-296-4873; M-F 8am-2pm LIVE ANOTHER DAY: 877-596-6866; Equal access to life-saving mental health and substance abuse resources; 24/7 helpline: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepc-connection.org; viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; 988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; 1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic Hours: 7am-4pm M/T/Th/F; 9am-6pm Wed; coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: Helpline 888-493-4670; detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); thehotline.org CAREER SERVICES BAYAUD ENTERPRISES CW-STEP: (Colorado Works - Subsidized training and employment program); 333 W. Bayaud Ave.; 303-830-6885; Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm; Provides re-entry to the workforce for individuals with TANF eligibility; info@bayaudenterprises.org COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER: Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway; 720-865-1706; M & T - 10am-8pm; Wed., Th &F - 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, WIFI, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments; denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER: Denver Dept of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd.; M-F 7:30am-4:30pm; Employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé prep, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc.; careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center WORKNOW: 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITE: 212-461-4401 truecolorsunited.org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, Wed.-Fri.; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.: Aurora 303-399-8020: va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: Veterans Disability Calculator veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE: 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412 Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK: 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours M-F 8-11am urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; sunshinebehavioralhealth.com TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 3080 Broadway, Boulder; 303-447-1207, 303-447-1207; For ages 12-24; Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services; M-Sun, 12:30-5pm; tgthr.org URBAN PEAK: 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; urbanpeak.org January 2024 DENVER VOICE 15 DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777;; Helps with employment, IDs, birth certs, mail services and lockers; M-Th - 10am-2pm; citysquare.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F - 7am-1pm; Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc.; thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc.; M, W, Th, F - 8:30am-5pm, T - 8:30am-1:30pm; tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 E. Colfax; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harmreduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; M-F - 9am-12pm; harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Help with lost IDs and birth certificates; holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM: 1555 Race St.; 303-832-3354; For men and women with HIV; M-F 8am-4pm LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; Day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services; homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, wifi; M-F 7a-5:30p; odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St; 303-297-1576; 6am-6pm daily; Storage for one bag (when space is available); Satellite Clinic hours- M, T, Th. F - 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm; sfcdenver.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee M-F. 8:30am; denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:45-12:15; mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F only: 7am-1pm. 8am breakfast, 11am lunch; havenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY: Food service on second and fourth Thursdays; feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS: Sun. 4 p.m.; 22nd St. Stout St (near Mercury Café); Instagram: @denverfoodnotbombs HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH: 29th and Milwaukee St.; Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm; jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY: 126 W. 2nd Ave.; 303-722-8781 Dinner at 4pm on Tues; Also offers a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available; stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. (Auraria Campus), 11am 7 days/week; food/coffee; stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm; Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon.; saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; soallmayeat.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER: 608 26th St., Thurs dinners, 6pm-7pm; lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St.; breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun.; food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetrofoodnutrition-themission DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing housing or financial instability. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Setting the Standard for foS Setting the Standard fong the Standard SLSLO SLO W FSLOW FO OW OO THE SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT AIMS TO BRING GOOD, CLEAN, FAIR FOOD TO ALL. r SLOW FOOD LOW FOOD FOOD FOOD ODOD THE SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT AIMS TO BRING GOOD CLEAN FAIR FOOD TO ALL PAGE 6 AFFORDABLE APARTMENT COMPLEX HELPS HOUSE SENIORS, VETERANS A NEW LOW-RISE COMPLEX IN LAKEWOOD OFFERS AFFORDABLE UNITS FOR SENIORS AND VETERANS. PAGE 4 PROFIT SHARING FOR ARVADA RENTERS RENTAL WEALTH FUND IS ONE OF FIRST TO ASSIST RENTERS WITH BUILDING WEALTH. PAGE 5 SHAME-FREE SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC OPENS IN DENVER TBD HELPS ERASE STIGMA RELATED TO STDS BY MAKING PATIENTS FEEL SAFE AND COMFORTABLE. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 5, 9, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 NOVEMBER 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 11 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: COURTESY OF IL PORCELLINO SALUMI

DIRECTOR’S NOTE AS WE COME TO THE CLOSE OF AN EVENTFUL YEAR, I want to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared. 2023 has been nothing short of inspiring, but it has also come with challenges. This past year has been pivotal— JAMES KAY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR not just for Denver VOICE, but for the unhoused individuals we are dedicated to serving. We’ve witnessed remarkable transformations within our community, with our vendors finding their voices, seizing economic opportunities, and embracing a renewed sense of purpose. Each step forward is a testament to the resilience and determination of those we aim to support. It’s been profoundly inspiring to see vendors not only surviving but thriving, embodying the essence of what Denver VOICE stands for. However, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the complexities we’ve faced. The challenges of homelessness, poverty, and social disparities are deeply entrenched, and our work is far from complete. This year has shown us that while progress is attainable, it demands unwavering commitment, unity, and creative solutions. Despite the obstacles our community has faced, I believe this is the moment for organizations, administrations, and the community to come together in a way we haven’t before. It’s a time to provide the comprehensive, wraparound services that are needed for long-term impact. Housing alone is not enough. It’s the integration of services, advocacy, economic empowerment, and healthcare along with reintegration into society that will create lasting change. Next month, both Giving Tuesday and Colorado Gives Day present opportunities for our community to show their commitment to empowering the unhoused, fostering community engagement, and advocating for systemic change. Thank you for playing an integral part in helping us meet our mission, and thank you for your support. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, and Medium.com. ASHTON SCHNEIDER graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in convergent journalism and a minor in cinema studies. She and her husband currently live with their two cats in Lakewood. GRACE THORBURN is a journalism student at the University of Colorado Boulder. She hopes that her writing will make a difference in the community by covering social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, homelessness, and racial equity. DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Robert Davis Gigi Galen WRITERS Rea Brown Michael Burkley 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. Cassandria Caramouch Robert Davis Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Ashton Schneider LarMarques “Misha” Smith Grace Thorburn Allysa Will BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Michael Burkley Antonio Diaz 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE November 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q A In honor of Thanksgiving, what person, event, or experience are you most grateful for? CASSANDRIA CARMOUCHE One of the greatest gifts that has been placed in my life is the Denver VOICE. I have been given the opportunity to be a vendor, a writer, an advocate, a volunteer, and best of all, a chance to have my voice heard. The entire staff, board members, as well as other vendors have become family to me. There is so much love, honor, and respect from everyone. My heart smiles every day with the thought of just being a part of such an amazing organization that truly cares for the ones that sometimes slip through the cracks in today’s world. RALENE JOHNSON I have had many blessings this past year, and I have also had some health challenges. I am grateful that I have good and supportive medical care, but I am most grateful for my daughter, who is moving to Colorado to help me get through the latest health issues I am facing. JASON MARTIN On August 3, 2023, Ivy Jade Vincent was born into the Martin family. Meghan (my daughter) was very excited about becoming a mother. So, Meghan was prepared for this adventure they’re embarking on. And seeing all of this unfold has made me the most grateful man on Planet Earth. Ivy looks a lot like my daughter, as well. So at the end of the day, remember to give thanks and be GRATEFUL FOR EVERYTHING you do or are a part of. ALYSSA WILL This year, I’m grateful for more things than I’ve been grateful for any other year. On the first day of being 19, I became stuck, and furthermore, homeless, due to the economy and how expensive everything is now. I’m grateful for the churches and organizations like the VOICE and supporters of the VOICE that help those of us who struggle. But most of all, I’m grateful for the person who has been my rock the whole time, Timothy Jones, who has shown me that love is stronger than any tide. MICHAEL BURKLEY I’m grateful to have the opportunity to work with James Kay, our executive director for the Denver VOICE. He has really helped a lot of our vendors, including myself. Mr. Kay is a testament to all that is good in the world. JERRY ROSEN I am so thankful for knowing God. I’m thankful for so many wonderful things. I am also grateful because I lost a few things [that were important to me], and I found them. LARMARQUES “MISHA” SMITH Most organizations geared towards helping the homeless, only operate from Monday-Friday, 9-5. It can vary, but generally, these places are closed on the weekends. Needless to say, the weekend has become the part of the week I least look forward to. Until I discovered Café 180. Café 180 is a restaurant in Englewood, and much like the Same Café on Colfax, Café 180 allows its patrons to perform a task or chore as payment for a meal. You pay what you can afford, or you complete the task for an entrée, a side, and a dessert. Café 180 has become part of my weekend routine. So now, on Saturdays, my partner and I venture down to Café 180 for a nice Saturday afternoon lunch. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. November 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS ROBINSON PLACE IN LAKEWOOD OPENS 67 AFFORDABLE UNITS FOR UNHOUSED SENIORS AND VETERANS BY ROBERT DAVIS CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS A NEW LOW-RISE APARTMENT COMPLEX IN LAKEWOOD could help some low-income earning seniors find stable housing at a time when high housing costs are forcing a number of elderly people across the metro area onto the streets. The complex, which is called Robinson Place, is located at 2275 Wadsworth Blvd. It was named after Robb Lapp, who helped found the faith-based nonprofit housing developer of the complex, Archway Communities, in 1994. Robinson Place includes a total of 67 affordable units for seniors who earn up to 50% of the area’s median income, or $41,000 annually. Altogether, there are 59 one-bedroom apartments and eight two-bedroom units at Robinson Place. Fifteen of the units are also supported by HUD-VASH housing vouchers, a federal program that helps connect homeless military veterans with housing, case management, and wraparound services. The complex also has its own supportive service coordinator for residents who did not serve in the military and is close to multiple bus stops and restaurants to help residents lead an active lifestyle during their golden years. “This work doesn’t stop once someone gets a home,” Lee CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS Bird, one of Archway’s board members, said at the grand opening ceremony on October 5. “You have to care for the whole person after they move in.” Each unit at Robinson Place is furnished with amenities such as a range, dishwasher, microwave, and refrigerator. The community also includes 24/7 maintenance, on-site laundry, and a community center. According to the Metro Denver CREDIT: ARCHWAY COMMUNITIES Homeless Initiative’s latest Point in Time count, there was a total of 854 people experiencing homelessness in Jefferson County, where Robinson Place is located. People aged 55 and over represent nearly 15% of that total, the data shows. 4 DENVER VOICE November 2023 CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS Across the seven-county metro area, seniors make up about one-in-five people experiencing homelessness on a given night. That figure has stayed roughly the same since 2017, according to the Metro Denver Homeless initiative. But many seniors still face plenty of risks to their housing stability. Some of which include rising home prices and rents, rising interest rates, and stubborn inflation, all of which can eat away at a low-income earning seniors’ monthly budget. Currently, all 67 units at Robinson Place are occupied. However, Archway is still collecting a waitlist for people who are interested. To get on the waitlist, individuals can call Robinson Place at 720-821-3285, or email the property staff at robinsonplace@archwaycommunities.org. ■ CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT CREDIT: ARCHWAY COMMUNITIES CREDIT: ARCHWAY COMMUNITIES ARVADA TOWNHOMES PART OF NATION’S FIRST PROFIT SHARING MODEL FOR RENTERS BY ROBERT DAVIS A NEW WEALTH-GENERATION PILOT PROGRAM called the Renter Wealth Creation Fund launched at a pair of Arvada townhome complexes in September and is one of the first attempts in the U.S. to help renters build wealth by paying rent. The idea was formulated by Enterprise Community Partners, a national housing advocacy nonprofit. The fund aims to help renters build wealth by offering a 2.5% monthly cash-back incentive for on-time rent payments and an opportunity to share in a property’s appreciation if it is sold or refinanced after four years of residency. Enterprise’s Chief Investment Officer Chris Herrmann told Denver VOICE that these benefits will be made available to both current and future residents at the Sheridan Ridge and Willow Green Townhomes—located at 275 W. 66th Ave. and 6985 Sheridan Blvd., respectively—which the organization purchased in August 2023 as part of the fund. The properties will be managed by Archway Communities, a social services nonprofit based in Lakewood. Archway offers employment support, case management, citizenship classes, and many other supportive services to more than 1,500 renters at 10 properties across the state, according to the organization’s website. The two complexes include a total of 125 homes available for renters earning between 30% and 60% of Denver’s median income, or up to $74,460 for a family of four. A news release from Archway explains that Enterprise spent approximately $1.7 million to upgrade the buildings, which included adding new floors, roof upgrades, and improvements to the security features. “Resident services and support are central to our work at Archway Communities, and this fund provides a new approach to fund these critical services and support our residents on their path to a more stable future,” Archway CEO Sebastian Corradino said in a press release. Denverite reported that investors who funded the renovations will be compensated through enterprise bonds, also known as corporate bonds, issued by Enterprise. The operation also includes a philanthropic grant from the New York Life Foundation. “The New York Life Foundation is focused on fostering generational wealth-building solutions for traditionally underserved communities,” New York Life Foundation President Heather Nesle said. “The Renter Wealth Creation Fund fits that focus as an innovative strategy that actively encourages savings and provides direct financial support to renters, thereby paving the way for increased asset accumulation over time. We’re excited to be a part of this initiative and thrilled that the first properties have been identified.” The wealth creation fund was also launched at a time when home prices and rents continued to increase across the Denver metro area. Metro Denver’s median home price stood at more than $569,000 in August, which represents a 1.2% climb over the last 12 months, data from Redfin.com shows. At this price point, a homeowner needs to earn approximately $120,000 per year to avoid paying more than the recommended 30% of their income on a mortgage, assuming a 20% down payment and a 7% interest rate on the mortgage. CREDIT: ARCHWAY COMMUNITIES Based on data from Zumper, rents have increased by even more. Over the last year, the average rent in Denver has increased by $96 up to around $1,800 per month, with rents increasing the most for studios and one-bedroom units. To avoid paying more than 30% of their income on rent, Denver renters need to earn at least $72,000 per year. However, the city’s median salary is just over $59,000, according to Gusto. ■ ANNUAL WRAPPING PAPER ISSUE VOICE vendors have been busy coming up with wrapping paper designs for our December issue. Keep your eye out next month for the 2023 creations, and use them to wrap your holiday gifts! . November 2023 DENVER VOICE 5 G 2019 ART BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON T BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNS NE JOHNSON N 2021 ART BY VOICE VENDOR PATRICK BALERIO T B TRICK BALERIO CK BALE BALE 2020 ART BY VOICE VENDOR JERRY ROSEN 20 AR

COMMUNITY PROFILE IL PORCELLINO SALUMI SETS THE STANDARD FOR LOCAL SLOW FOOD PHILOSOPHIES BY GRACE THORBURN THE SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT’S MISSION is to bring good, clean, fair food to all. Slow Food is founded on the belief that local slow food is good for the community and should be celebrated. In a little over two decades, the movement has evolved to embrace a comprehensive approach to food that recognizes the strong connections between plate, planet, people, politics, and culture. By striving to create a world, where people can eat food that is good for them, good for those who grow it, and good for the planet, the Slow Food movement has driven change in more than 160 countries. For Il Porcellino Salumi owner and chef Bill Miner, ethically sourced meat is of the utmost priority. The Denver-based salumeria—which is the Italian word for delicatessen—utilizes Colorado-cured and preserved meat that comes straight from a whole-animal butcher program, where every step of the process is done by hand. Specializing in charcuterie, Il Porcellino Salumi crafts artisan products at their USDA facility in Basalt, Colorado. Il Porcellino Salumi prides itself on producing meat that is pasture-raised and environmentally conscious, which results in higher-quality products that customers are willing to pay more for. While many restaurants in the Denver area have been recognized for following slow food practices, Il Porcellino Salumi is leading the way for delicatessens in Denver with its whole-animal utilization program. As one of the numerous COURTESY OF IL PORCELLINO SALUMI COURTESY OF IL PORCELLINO SALUMI COURTESY OF IL PORCELLINO SALUMI 6 DENVER VOICE November 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE local businesses following slow food principles, Il Porcellino Salumi is a business that’s set a standard for slow food philosophies locally by adhering to sustainable food practices that cultivate community and connection. With increasing food and employment costs, traditional high-stakes competition has brought the importance of ethically sourced ingredients to the forefront in recent years. Local Slow Food chapters work to create affordable and accessible events focused on education and outreach. Slow food principles include local agricultural production, equitable working conditions, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and fair prices for producers. These practices are what qualify businesses as members of the Slow Food movement. “As we’ve grown, where we’re sourcing meat from and not working for people that are unethical is a priority,” said Miner. “[Unethical sourcing is] just not the right thing to do. You can tell a difference in the quality of the meat.” As a member of a larger-scale effort to further implement slow food practices, Slow Food’s local chapters in Denver and Boulder are working in pursuit of a more just and sustainable food system. By supporting local businesses such as Il Porcellino Salumi, the movement creates a community for people with a passion for the culture of local food systems. Despite its growth since Il Porcellino Salumi opened in 2015, Miner’s business model has never changed. He and his team are focused on working with small family farms that raise heritage breed animals sustainably. With one of the business’s greatest challenges being labor costs, “it’s tempting to buy bigger equipment and do things in a different manner,” Miner said. “But at the same time, we want to stay true to our products.” According to Slow Food Denver’s programs and outreach coordinator Mary Cappelletti, the appreciation and connection that Slow Food Denver’s organization helps facilitate, both locally and on a broader level, are among the high points of her job. Cappelletti runs the local chapter’s online communications and coordinates their events. “One of the best things about slow food is it’s so driven by joy and celebration,” Miner said. “It’s not about putting people down for doing it the wrong way…it’s about celebrating those that are trying and the many different ways that looks.” As the board chair of Boulder’s Slow Food chapter, Jodie Popma has been working to bridge the gap between healthy, local, and fresh food that is easy to prepare. “Every dollar we make from every event goes right back into our community,” Popma said. “When we do have an event [such as a farm dinner featuring local farmers], we like to pay our farmers rather than asking for donations.” Despite the challenges that rising labor costs present, businesses such as Miner’s Il Porcellino Salumi are leading the way by refusing to step down from ethical, old-world production strategies. The philosophy of the Slow Food movement lies in taking the time to learn and rediscover pleasure in everyday life by appreciating the pleasures and traditions of the table. “I like to think that customers recognize what we’re doing,” Miner said. “They understand the product cost a little bit more but that they can taste the difference in quality in our products.” ■ Denver VOICE readers may wonder why a street paper is spotlighting Slow Food, when it’s likely to cost consumers more money. We feel this effort toward sustainability is worthy of being highlighted, and hope that this movement continues to grow toward a future of clean, healthy food accessibility for all. COURTESY OF IL PORCELLINO SALUMI DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org COURTESY OF IL PORCELLINO SALUMI November 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

NATIONAL STORY Homeless centers must conform to architectural standards for emergency shelter. These standards have historically been influenced by institutional building design, which prioritizes attaining minimum conditions needed to keep people alive. Today, many homeless shelters struggle to provide even that level of care. The Human Services Campus was originally constructed in 2003 to provide consolidated services and a coordinated entry plan for people experiencing homelessness. However, it was intended to be part of a larger system of shelters, not the sole service provider for Phoenix’s estimated 9,000 homeless people. The city’s homeless population has grown, in part because of unprecedented rent increases and a lack of affordable housing. During this summer’s heat wave, nearly 1,200 unsheltered homeless people lived on sidewalks surrounding the campus, many in tents, with limited access to bathrooms and sanitation facilities. HOMELESSNESS AND MENTAL HEALTH When asked about the causes of homelessness, policymakers and members of the public often point to mental illness and addiction, as well as a lack of affordable housing. They tend to pay less attention to the underlying impacts of past trauma other than noting that many women become homeless to escape domestic violence. In a 2005 study, an alarming 79% of homeless women seeking treatment for mental illness and substance abuse reported experiencing a past traumatic event such as physical or sexual abuse. More recently, a 2020 study showed that nearly two-thirds of homeless women and almost half of homeless men reported that they were GENERAL VIEW OF A HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT IN DOWNTOWN PHOENIX AS UNHOUSED PEOPLE RECEIVE MEDICAL CARE FROM CIRCLE THE CITY’S MOBILE MEDICAL UNIT ON THE 14TH DAY OF TEMPERATURES RISING TO 110 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA, U.S., JULY 13, 2023. REUTERS/LILIANA SALGADO SHELTERS CAN HELP HOMELESS PEOPLE BY PROVIDING QUIET AND PRIVACY, NOT JUST A BUNK AND A MEAL BY NATALIE FLORENCE AND HEATHER ROSS THE CITY OF PHOENIX SET HEAT RECORDS in the summer of 2023, with high temperatures that topped 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius) for 31 consecutive days and at least 54 days in total. In such conditions, providing basic services—including cool spaces—for people experiencing homelessness is lifesaving. In 2022, 420 people—many of them unsheltered – died in Phoenix from heat-related causes. Estimates are not yet available for summer 2023, but given this year’s extreme conditions, the toll is expected to be higher. For the past two years, we have worked as researchers with the Human Services Campus, a 13-acre complex in Maricopa County, Arizona, where 16 nonprofit organizations work together to help people who are experiencing homelessness. The campus includes Central Arizona Shelter Services, or CASS, Phoenix’s largest homeless emergency shelter, which assists 800 people experiencing homelessness on any given night. Our work includes talking with staff and clients to better 8 DENVER VOICE November 2023 OVERFLOWING SHELTERS As of 2022, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimated that the U.S. had nearly 600,000 homeless people nationwide, with about 60% living in emergency shelters, safe havens, or transitional housing. The other 40% lived outdoors or in places such as abandoned buildings and public transit stations. understand their challenges and identify possible solutions that draw from our work in the fields of architecture, health, and social innovation. Dormitories at CASS protect residents from extreme heat with a bunk to sleep in, day rooms for socializing, case management services, and sanitary shower and restroom facilities. However, CASS struggles to provide dignified spaces that offer privacy, storage space, and quiet environments. People need this kind of environmental support in order to battle recurring physical and mental health issues that often accompany homelessness and can hinder or prevent healing. homeless because of trauma. Shelter design can affect homeless people’s ability to recover from past trauma and to battle addiction and other mental health issues that perpetuate cycles of homelessness. For example, one woman who currently lives in CASS told us about trying to get a full night’s sleep while living in a day room where the lights were kept on around the clock and there was constant activity. Because she had several bags of personal items that were too big to store in the dormitory, she could not get a bed there. “When they don’t turn the lights down at night, I start to feel like my body is vibrating,” she said. “I start to see people walking around, and I’m not sure if they are even really there.” Routinely sleeping less than seven hours per night can be harmful to health. It lowers immune function, increases chronic pain, and raises the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and death. For homeless people battling mental health challenges, addiction, and past trauma, rest and recovery are essential to getting back on their feet. CASS staff have tried to create healthier sleep spaces, such as dorms that remain dark, quiet, and cool at all times. Priority access goes to people with jobs. These sections can house only about a third of CASS’s residents, leaving others to sleep in dorms where there is more noise and light. MORE SUPPORTIVE SPACES Simply feeding people and providing them with places to sleep is a major challenge for shelters in cities where homelessness is rising. But some have found ways to think more broadly. In San Diego, Father Joe’s Villages, a nonprofit network with a central campus and scattered-site programs, houses more than 2,000 people nightly. San Diego’s more temperate climate makes it less urgent to maximize the number of people they shelter indoors, so staff at Father Joe’s can use its decentralized design to create shelters with private and quiet spaces. The Father Joe’s network includes multiple smaller-scale facilities where clean bathrooms are easily accessible and NATIONAL STORY homeless people can use basic amenities like laundry and storage. One example is Mary’s Place, a collection of diverse shelters that provides emergency and long-term support in smaller facilities modeled after the simplicity and comfort of a home. People experience less stress and can more easily navigate the challenge of ending their own homelessness when they can get a restful night’s sleep in a quiet environment, with spaces that allow them some privacy. We are encouraged to see other U.S. shelters moving in this direction – but there’s a long way to go. STEPS TOWARD BETTER DESIGN To address the lack of privacy at CASS, we have proposed subdividing the day room into more private spaces to accommodate activities like online telehealth appointments, counseling, and job interviews. To tackle the long-term impacts of overcrowding, we also have recommended introducing sanitation amenities, such as laundry facilities, “hot boxes” to sanitize clothing and bedding, more bathroom facilities, and reliable trash removal to reduce the spread of infection and pests such as bedbugs and lice. For new facilities, designers could consider small changes, such as increased storage and more diligent regulation of temperature, light, and noise. Hospitals, nursing homes, and retirement communities have found many ways in recent decades to use design to support patients’ health. Many of the same concepts can be applied to emergency shelters and help turn these facilities from institutional warehouses into spaces of health and opportunity. ■ Natalie Florence is a Ph.D. candidate in humanitarian design and infrastructure studies at Arizona State University. Heather Ross is a clinical associate professor in nursing and clinical associate professor at the School for the Future of Innovation in Society, Arizona State University. Courtesy of The Conversation / International Network of Street Papers Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. AUTUMN WISH LIST NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant Chapstick, sunscreen Bottled water 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) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN November 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT SHAME-FREE SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC: A WELCOME ADDITION TO THE DENVER COMMUNITY BY ASHTON SCHNEIDER TBD IS A NEW SEXUAL HEALTH CENTER that opened its doors in early October. Recognizing a need for a clinic that offered shame-free and inclusive sexual healthcare, Co-founders Stephanie Estey and Daphne Chen established their first TBD clinic in Las Vegas a year ago. In an interview with Denver VOICE, Estey explained that the care hub helps erase the stigma related to STDs by making patients feel safe and comfortable in seeking sexual health care. “Testing doesn’t have to be this serious thing that feels really heavy,” Estey said, “but something that you can really be proud of [because you are taking time for self-care].” The Denver TBD clinic will operate similarly to the one in Las Vegas, which caters to a wide range of patients—from young teenagers to those who are elderly. “If you’re having sex, you should be thinking about your sexual health,” said Estey. “We don’t care how many partners you have; we just want to make sure you’re doing it in the best, healthiest way.” Like the one in Las Vegas, the Denver care hub provides Pap smears, birth control, and STD testing. Each patient is greeted by a doctor who walks them through what they can expect while at the clinic and answers whatever questions they may have. According to Estey, she and Chen saw Denver as an ideal location for their second care hub, due to the area’s rising cases of STIs/STDs. Additionally, Colorado is among the states that do not mandate sexual education in schools. XXXX COURTESY OF TBD DENVER 10 DENVER VOICE November 2023 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT The Denver TBD care hub is working on setting up a partnership with Colorado Medicaid to help patients who can’t afford the price point. According to TBD employee Peyton Weaver, TBD’s opening in October was well-received by community members. To COURTESY OF TBD DENVER COURTESY OF TBD DENVER Health clinics often have limited appointments available, or it may take several weeks to see a doctor, but according to Estey, the TBD medical team is determined to see as many patients as possible. “If you walk in [to our clinic], you might have to wait 10 to 15 minutes,” said Estey. “We pride ourselves on being able to offer appointments that are the same day, because [addressing] sexual health is important.” Cost is often something patients worry about when going to the doctor, but Estey said TBD strives for affordability. “If TBD is outside what you are able to spend, we always make sure we hook you up with good resources,” Estey said. Services at the Las Vegas clinic vary from $60 for a general consultation, to a polyamorous/unsure exposure panel for $325. This panel is full-range of STD testing for those with multiple partners, or just those who are unsure about their status. Estey said the Denver clinic’s prices are similar. COURTESY OF TBD DENVER drum up business and encourage word-of-mouth referrals, the clinic offered free STI tests. There was also a ribbon-cutting ceremony with members from Mayor Johnston’s office and representatives of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. “Clients are so excited to have a care hub like this in the area—where not only can they get tested, but learn about sexual health,” said Weaver. According to Estey, the most important role the clinic can fill is to provide a judgment-free zone where patients can get the services they need. “[If we can] get people to feel good about getting STD/STI tests and having great, healthy sex, we are making progress towards fulfilling our commitment,” Estey said. Anyone who is not comfortable visiting the clinic can request STI/STD testing kits from TBD’s website. For more information on TBD’s Denver care hub, visit https://www. tbd.health/clinic/denver-larimer. ■ November 2023 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS THANK YOU, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR THE MIRROR IS BLURRY CLEAR BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR BACK ON THE STREETS BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA THANK YOU, SELF, for truly loving Self. You went from believing you were put on this earth to be used and abused and hearing people always tell you that you can’t do it, or you will fail at anything you do. You start to believe their words, and over time, you give up on Self. You have learned to stop believing anything anyone said to me if it was negative. People try to break you down because they are broken. Hurt people hurt other people, so stop believing what they say. Thank you, Self, for learning that lesson. One thing I found out is all the pain of the past made me a stronger person. The past taught me compassion for others. Thank you for finally understanding there was a reason for all the pain of the past and why I survived the trauma. You came out of it, and now, you can use that pain you went through so you can really change other people’s lives for the better, and that is the best thing ever—to channel all that you have gone through Thank you, Self, for finding your voice. Thank you for finding Self... You have come so far. Thank you for loving Self and being able to really love others. Thank you for the life I have now. Thank you for letting go of the past. It has set me free! Thank you for not letting anyone break you down anymore. Only you can change you. No one can change you if you don’t want them to. You are WORTH THAT GOOD THING. I know I had to change, and I’m living the BEST LIFE EVER. ■ REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED THIS YEAR the mirror is blurry clear I’m in a war with weaponry man doesn’t manufacturer gear at times I’m the naked truth that nobody wants to hear. The new thing that people do as if it’s cool to disappear, or they ask me to stop so my words don’t enter into their ear I can imagine they group together and speak of it with goofy cheer what a good laugh they must have talking trash like a happy ass meanwhile the past is full of gas speeding fast at classy dear which was my biggest fear the clarity of my voice mislead many to think I’m near but I’m never there I’m here looking over the sea of time whispering from its pier like a seer for his peers but they’re so full of beer and queer (weird) the need to steer is queer. I’m bound to be washed away by months, minutes, or tears; so much has happened this year the mirror is blurry clear. ■ THIS IS NOT THE TIME or the place to state all the facts that relate to what some would say is one of the greatest mysteries to date, from stone tablets to hieroglyphs, ancient artifacts, and secret documents—it’s becoming more and more evident the fate of our future awaits Burchett’s (one of the leading members of Congress) updates on UAP activity in the United States. You may be wondering, “What does that have to do with being back on the streets, or poverty?” But I can’t help but think how this won’t affect everything. Especially how we look at history. Are they advanced, HOMELESS TRAVELERS, or advanced information gatherers? Unbeknownst to many, Nickola Tesla is reported to have found a satellite orbiting Earth that is not from our planet. It is believed to be so powerful that they can’t even keep it a secret. In other words, nobody can bring it to a lab and test it; it makes me wonder why this information isn’t more relevant. I mean, how many years have they been selling it? Superman is a story of a homeless child who was heaven-sent. Living on Earth as a resident. For years many have been waiting for evidence more than manuscripts, paintings, and comic strips. And even though I’m suffering from hatred, loneliness, and homelessness I wouldn’t miss it for the world Back on the Streets.■ This “Back on the Streets” piece is in homage to Brian Augustine, who passed away in January. When he died, Augustine was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to living on the streets when he could no longer afford his rent. Through the end of this year, various VOICE vendors intend to contribute something in honor of Brian Augustine’s legacy. 12 DENVER VOICE November 2023 EVENTS LAUGH LAB Local comedians test out new material and tweak existing bangers at Rise Comedy’s weekly Laugh Lab. Some comics will concoct the perfect formula while other jokes will immediately implode but regardless, the results will be entertaining! WHEN: Nov 1, 8, 15, 29, 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. INFO: risecomedy.com DENVER FILM FESTIVAL Currently in its 46th year, the Denver Film Festival provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in world-class cinema for 10 straight days. This year’s fest will feature national and international independent films, creative conversations, post-screening Q+As, VR experiences, and additional special events. Choose from fancy-pants red carpet screenings or low-budget indie gems, while you hang with other film lovers and makers. WHEN: Nov 3 – Nov 12 COST: Ticket prices vary. WHERE: Multiple venues INFO: denverfilm.org ACROSS OPENING DAY OF THE DENVER CHRISTKINDL MARKET Civic Center Park will once again be transformed into a traditional German holiday market, complete with festive music, big beers, a heated tent, soft pretzels, Gluhwein, holiday knickknacks, and twinkling lights. Market runs through December 23rd; check the website for daily hours and entertainment. WHEN: Nov 17, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Civic Center Park, Colfax & Broadway INFO: christkindlmarketdenver.com WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE SEMINAR Attendees will learn the importance of situational awareness and ways to avoid being targeted. They will also learn the proper mechanics of striking, as well as some basic moves to get out of an attack. WHEN: Nov 19, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. COST: $17 WHERE: Flow Yoga Studio, 2550 Youngfield St., Lakewood, CO INFO: facebook.com/lifes2shortfitness TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE BUG Come on out to The Bug on the last Tuesday of every month for free trivia with Denver Trivia League! WHEN: Nov 28, 7 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: bugtheatre.org 1. Calypso offshoot 4. Fictional Swiss miss 9. “What’s the ___?” 13. Celestial bear 15. “Hamlet” courtier 16. Iridescent gem 17. Providing (for), in a schedule 19. The b in n.b. 20. Makes furious 21. Put in storage 23. Supermarket worker 24. Committed to 25. Bloodshot 26. Vigorous exercises 29. Dog-___ 32. Streaming service now retired in the US 33. “The Matrix” hero 34. Got bigger 35. Picture puzzle 36. In good health 37. PC image file type whose pronunciation is a perennial debate 38. Open to bribery 39. Brahmans, e.g. 40. Lizards (anagram of SIR SAUNA) 42. Warning sound 43. Shower scrubber 44. Algebra and trig, for calc 48. Overwhelm 50. Gets with the program 51. Poor marks 52. Secondary 54. Departed 55. Be eco-friendly 56. Slammin’ Sammy 57. ___’acte 58. Research physician’s dual deg. 59. Middle part of a date DOWN 1. Jumbo combatants 2. Frank topping 3. Invite along for 4. Didn’t share 5. Aromatic compound that sounds like a girl’s name 6. Pupil’s locale that sounds like a different girl’s name 7. Faint 8. Shipping hazards 9. Rub elbows 10. Italian range (anagram of SIENNA PEN) 11. Window section 12. Vehicle that runs on snow 14. Flight staff 18. In the buff 22. Langston Hughes poem 24. 1988 Olympics site 26. Arafat’s successor 27. Welshman or Irishwoman 28. Shoe bottom 29. Baker’s dozen? 30. Diva’s song 31. Shining brightly (anagram of GENTLE FUR) 32. Reddish brown dye used in Hindu wedding ceremonies 35. Assert anew 36. Rabbit homes 38. Six-stringed instrument 39. Kind of paper 41. Alarm clock, ideally 42. Handed out 51-Across (and other letters, hopefully) 44. Engage in an online scam 45. Bar, legally (anagram of PESTO) 46. Somewhat 47. Water balloon sound 48. Leg up 49. Broadway brightener 50. Atlantic food fish 53. Actor Beatty COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 November 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Anonymous Individual Donor Matt and Nikki Seashore Cisco Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Colorado Housing and Finance Authority The Christian Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. 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Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity KL&A Engineers and Builders 14 DENVER VOICE November 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, VETERAN SUPPORT COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY LIFT: 5045 W. 1st Ave., Denver; rentassistance.org DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/ treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F 9am-12pm: harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins 303-296-1767; Dental 303-296-4873; M-F 8am-2pm LIVE ANOTHER DAY: 877-596-6866; Equal access to life-saving mental health and substance abuse resources; 24/7 helpline: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepc-connection.org; viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; 988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; 1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic Hours: 7am-4pm M/T/Th/F; 9am-6pm Wed; coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: Helpline 888-493-4670; detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); thehotline.org CAREER SERVICES BAYAUD ENTERPRISES CW-STEP: (Colorado Works - Subsidized training and employment program); 333 W. Bayaud Ave.; 303-830-6885; Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm; Provides re-entry to the workforce for individuals with TANF eligibility; info@bayaudenterprises.org COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER: Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway; 720-865-1706; M & T - 10am-8pm; Wed., Th &F - 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, WIFI, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments; denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER: Denver Dept of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd.; M-F 7:30am-4:30pm; Employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé prep, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc.; careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center WORKNOW: 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITE: 212-461-4401 truecolorsunited.org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, Wed.-Fri.; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.: Aurora 303-399-8020: va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: Veterans Disability Calculator veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE: 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412 Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK: 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours M-F 8-11am urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; sunshinebehavioralhealth.com TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 3080 Broadway, Boulder; 303-447-1207, 303-447-1207; For ages 12-24; Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services; M-Sun, 12:30-5pm; tgthr.org URBAN PEAK: 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; urbanpeak.org November 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777;; Helps with employment, IDs, birth certs, mail services and lockers; M-Th - 10am-2pm; citysquare.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F - 7am-1pm; Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc.; thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc.; M, W, Th, F - 8:30am-5pm, T - 8:30am-1:30pm; tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 E. Colfax; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harmreduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; M-F - 9am-12pm; harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Help with lost IDs and birth certificates; holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM: 1555 Race St.; 303-832-3354; For men and women with HIV; M-F 8am-4pm LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; Day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services; homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, wifi; M-F 7a-5:30p; odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St; 303-297-1576; 6am-6pm daily; Storage for one bag (when space is available); Satellite Clinic hours- M, T, Th. F - 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm; sfcdenver.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee M-F. 8:30am; denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:45-12:15; mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F only: 7am-1pm. 8am breakfast, 11am lunch; havenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY: Food service on second and fourth Thursdays; feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS: Sun. 4 p.m.; 22nd St. Stout St (near Mercury Café); Instagram: @denverfoodnotbombs HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH: 29th and Milwaukee St.; Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm; jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY: 126 W. 2nd Ave.; 303-722-8781 Dinner at 4pm on Tues; Also offers a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available; stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. (Auraria Campus), 11am 7 days/week; food/coffee; stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm; Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon.; saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; soallmayeat.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER: 608 26th St., Thurs dinners, 6pm-7pm; lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St.; breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun.; food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetrofoodnutrition-themission DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

On Tuesday, December 5, our community will come together to “give where we live” during Colorado’s largest one-day online giving event. We invite you to join our community on this day and support the Denver VOICE! This year we have a goal of raising $30,000 on Colorado Gives Day, and all gifts made that day on our website will link you directly to this effort. But you can schedule your gift starting November 1! Simply go to www.coloradogives. org/denvervoice/overview. Under the donation amount, check the box that says “Schedule a donation for Colorado Gives Day” and complete the process. Your gift delivers ongoing support for the more than 100 individuals we employ each year through the vendor program - giving everyone that comes to us in need the opportunity that comes from tools of empowerment and hope for change! DECEMBER 5 (schedule your donation now!)

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE ELEVTING LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES West Denver Small Business Coalition’s new gift card program showcases the area’s vibrancy while supporting family-owned businesses in Southwest Denver. PAGE 6 THE LINK BETWEEN FOOD AND HOUSING HUNGER RELIEF COMPANY ADDRESSES FOOD SECURITY AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT DENVER STARTUP WEEK. PAGE 4 DISABLED AND HOMELESS ACCORDING TO A REPORT FROM THE UK, DISABLED PEOPLE ARE DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTED BY HOMELESSNESS. PAGE 8 LURED BY JOBS, SOLD AS BRIDES IN MANY PARTS OF INDIA, WOMEN ARE TRAFFICKED AND SOLD TO MEN WHO FIND IT HARD TO FIND BRIDES WITHIN THEIR COMMUNITIES. PAGE 9 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 5, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 OCTOBER 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 10 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: JESUS REYES, LA GOTA DE MIEL: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLACE

EDITOR’S NOTE WHEN WE LET DENVER VOICE VENDORS know our Ask a Vendor question, which Lando Allen suggested for this month — “What can you do to accomplish your goals?” — I was happy to see how many of them submitted answers. All of the answers are good, but a few of the responses stood out to me. To accomplish his goals, John ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR Alexander, who is one of the sagest people I’ve met, applies what he calls his “constant persistence” formula. As he explains, when it comes to success, one can’t work for it “sometimes” but, instead, must approach a goal with unwavering faith and firmness. Jason Martin believes it is better to set simple goals he knows he can achieve. When he wakes up each morning, his first goal is to make his bed, so by the time he heads out to begin his day, he already has achieved something. Our vendors’ answers show how differently people approach their goals. Regardless of what they are and whether we share them or not, goals are personal, and we are the only ones who can determine how successful we are in meeting them. Whether our goal is to get through the day without touching a drop of alcohol, cross the street before the light turns red, or be a best-selling author, our goals are our own. And if anyone reading this isn’t sure where to begin with goal-setting, VOICE vendor Larmarques Smith reminds us that the first step is to HAVE a goal, and then, to come up with a plan for how we’re going to meet that goal. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, and Medium.com. FRANK DEANGELI is a PNW transplant who has spent six years in Colorado. He has previously spent much of his professional career working in case management at a homeless shelter. He loves movies, making music, and throwing any kind of flying disc. 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. PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Gigi Galen WRITERS John Alexander Lando Allen Rea Brown Michael Burkley Robert Davis Frank DeAngeli Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith Steve Szloboda BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Michael Burkley Antonio Diaz Jennifer Seybold 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE October 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US AUTUMN WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: • Socks • Toiletries (individual or travel-size) • Toothpaste, deodorant • Chapstick, sunscreen • Bottled water 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) • Backpacks, carrier bags • USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. October 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL FEATURE GOODR’S JASMINE CROW, COLORADO SEN. JAMES COLEMAN AND ELEVATED DENVER’S JOHNNA FLOOD TOLD THE CROWD AT DENVER STARTUP WEEK ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES WITH HUNGER AND HOW IT IMPACTED THEIR HOUSING SITUATIONS. CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS HUNGER RELIEF COMPANY CONNECTS FOOD SECURITY AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT DENVER STARTUP WEEK BY ROBERT DAVIS DENVER STARTUP WEEK often attracts businesses that are tackling the country’s most pressing issues. This year, a hunger relief startup spoke to attendees about the links between food security and affordable housing. Goodr, a food waste and hunger relief organization headquartered in Atlanta, was featured in a live Elevated Denver podcast recording on September 18. The discussion was moderated by Colorado Democrat Sen. James Coleman of Denver. The conversation happened at a time when issues surrounding food security and homelessness have also become more acute for low-income earning households since the pandemic began. For example, more than 156,000 households across Colorado report not having enough to eat, according to census data. One-third of those households have children, the data shows, and more than half of these families reported using their savings or borrowing money from friends and family to buy food. There is also a deep connection between access to affordable housing and food security. Affordable housing is defined as a dwelling that requires about 30% or less of an individual’s income for rent. As people spend a higher proportion of their income on rent and utilities, they often have less to spend on food, which can create a vicious cycle that ultimately ends in someone losing their home. About 50% of households in Colorado are considered “rent burdened,” meaning they 4 DENVER VOICE October 2023 pay more than 30% of their income on rent, according to the Colorado Housing Finance Authority. Goodr founder Jasmine Crowe said the data shows that there are a lot of vulnerable households that are making tough choices between paying their mortgage, rent and utility bills, or buying food. According to the latest consumer price data, food prices were up 4.3% for the 12-month period ending in August 2023. For comparison, the Bureau of Labor Statistics measured the U.S. core inflation rate at 3.7% in August. These figures were even higher in the Rocky Mountain region, according to BLS. “These issues shouldn’t exist in a country as rich as ours,” Crowe said. “But there is so much food wasted everyday that it boggles the mind.” Food waste is not a new issue in the U.S., but it is one that seems to be getting worse. Data from the national nonprofit ReFED shows the U.S. produced about 91 million pounds of surplus food in 2021, a nearly 5% increase since 2016. However, about 32.7 million tons of food was sent to landfills across the country, with households making up the largest chunk of that waste. Colorado produced about 1.55 million pounds of surplus food in 2021, but more than 58% of that surplus ended up in state landfills, the data shows. And this trend has impacted low-income earners, households of color, and seniors who live on fixed incomes the most, Crowe said. Traditionally, food banks provide the backbone of support for food insecure families. Food banks are places where food insecure households can get healthy food for free or at a significantly reduced price compared to grocery stores. In theory, buying food from food banks should free up other money to be spent on housing costs. But Crowe said that isn’t always the case because some organizations give out low quality food that spoils quickly or don’t have culturally responsive options for people who eat vegan, halal or kosher diets. “A lot of people think that if you’re hungry then you need to accept the food you’re given and be grateful,” Crowe said. “We need to break that stigma.” These are all problems that Goodr is designed to address, Crowe added. The company takes a two-pronged approach to solving hunger. On one hand, Goodr diverts food waste away from landfills and gives it to nonprofits who can either redistribute the food or compost it. The company also hosts pop-up grocery stores and has a meal and grocery delivery program. The idea behind Goodr’s model is to meet people where they are and to provide them with the healthy options they deserve, Crowe said. Goodr has also teamed up with some Denver-area schools like the Place Bridge Academy to address food insecurity. Goodr operates a free grocery store at the school that is stocked with fresh produce, reduced sugar or sugar-free snacks, school supplies, and clothing. About 200 students and their families use the grocery store every month and another 100 are on the waitlist. Crowe said Goodr’s goals are to reduce food waste by about 15% and hunger by around 10% nationwide. While those numbers may seem small, she said they could have a dramatic impact. For example, reducing hunger by about 10% would mean that 25 million Americans have affordable sources for nutritious meals, Crowe said. One issue that the company has run into is funding, Crowe mentioned. Goodr currently operates on a budget of between $3 million and $4 million per year, which pales in comparison to large food banks like the Food Bank of the Rockies, which has an annual operating budget of about $164 million, according to its tax filings from 2021. “The way we’ve tried to solve hunger in this country is all wrong,” Crowe said. ■ ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR LANDO ALLEN. Q What can you do to accomplish your goals? A REA BROWN My goals? Young or old? Rich or cold?? Bought or sold? Walked or drove? Silver or gold? Meek or bold? I suppose that purpose I know the goals to goals but sadly no. Badly though Even mad badly “Actually,” probably sadly mad badly I happily hope to grow I mean it’s easy to say this or that but the fact is you don’t know. I suppose that purpose I know the goals to goals but sadly no. Badly though Even mad badly “Actually,” probably sadly mad badly I happily hope to grow I mean it’s easy to say this or that but the fact is you don’t know. Has life ever come at you slow? Can you honestly say you found a road that has obstacles that all show? Has Father Time let you rewind so you’re more knowledgeable than your foe? Can you recognize the backstabber before she slit your throat? Or before he cut the rope? Yes, Sometimes goals get put on hold, Sometimes goals get sold for dope. Some people’s life is way too serious and to some others, it’s all a joke. So, to answer your question about reading glasses, the way to appreciate the kaleidoscope is one pattern at a time. JOHN ALEXANDER One of the things that I do whenever I am faced with trying to succeed at something is to remember to always pursue a simple formula that I call “constant persistence.” This means I must persist and continue to go stubbornly on in spite of difficulties. But this cannot be dealt with on a “sometimes” basis. Instead, it must be a mixture of unchanging faith and firmness – constantly. MICHAEL BURKLEY Your goal may be to do something you’ve been curious about, while thinking it’s something you could be good at. The first step is to not be afraid of achieving it. Don’t force it. Take time to think about it. Do something you believe you can accomplish that is similar to that goal. After you feel you are managing that well for a while, you may be in a prime position to set and meet a new goal. RAELENE JOHNSON The first thing I do every morning is to read inspiring words. I make a point to keep positive words in my mind all day. I also try every day to lift someone up. Before I do that, I first lift myself up, because if I start with myself, I am able to lift up others. If I do that every day, then I have a blessed life. JASON MARTIN I set small achievable goals throughout the day, because if I set “goals for the future,” I tend not to accomplish those. So, to make sure I’m not setting myself up for failure, I try to simplify them. For example, my first goal each day is to make my bed, so by 6 a.m., I’ve already achieved a goal! JERRY ROSEN What I could do is put a list of what I would like to accomplish on paper, think about the list, and put it into perspective. Then, I use that perspective to meet my goals. LARMARQUES SMITH The first thing I can do to accomplish my goal is to HAVE a goal. To reach that goal, I have to have a plan – not just a plan rolling around in my head - but a plan that is written down and put in a place visible to me every day. Anyone can have a plan, but is it really a plan if it’s not written down for us to reference? Staying vigilant is also something I can do to reach my goals. There are always roadblocks on the way to achieving a goal. If I stay focused on my goal and not allow myself to be distracted or misguided by obstacles and remember what the ultimate goal is, my goal will be accomplished. Stay focused! Stay grounded! Stay positive! STEVE SZLOBODA It’s all about the way you approach people. How are you communicating with them? Get to know your customers and build relationships so they keep coming back. Be courteous and pleasant. Pay attention to your presentation and show that you are confident. Also, leave any personal problems aside so you can focus separately on achieving your goals. LANDO ALLEN When I got sick recently, it seemed like all of my goals would be lost. During that time, I told my friend that people should never lose their dreams. He said he lost his goals a long time ago when he had children. I am a big believer in never giving up. A couple of days went by while I was still sick, and I got better. I told myself it was time to force myself to get things going. I knew I was close to losing everything, and I had to build up myself to get my goals done. I just don’t want to fail. That desire and hard work have helped me achieve one of my biggest goals, and it saved me from losing everything. Otb 2023 DENVER VOICOctober 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE SUPPORTING SOUTHWEST DENVER’S SMALL AND FAMILYOWNED BUSINESSES BY FRANK DEANGELI SOUTHWEST DENVER — the area between Colfax Avenue, Florida Avenue, Santa Fe Drive, and Sheridan Boulevard — has long been home to hundreds of small businesses, a number of which are owned and operated by immigrant families residing in the area. After being hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, many that weathered the storm have struggled to regain footing. In an effort to provide relief to these establishments, the West Denver Small Business Coalition (WDSBC) created the West Denver Marketplaces program in December 2022. Established in June 2020, the coalition represents an effort by several local leaders to support and advocate for the area’s small businesses, and the Marketplaces program was formulated to do just that. In 2021, WDSBC conducted a survey of 217 businesses in the area. Of these, 78% said their business was doing “ok” or was “struggling some,” and 52% said their business was doing worse as a result of COVID-19. Many respondents listed access to grants/funding and an improved digital presence as some of their greatest needs. The West Denver Marketplaces program seeks to address these needs directly. The program is twofold: help these businesses navigate an arduous grant and loan application process, and assist them in marketing to a broader audience. Describing the grant and loan applications for small enterprises, Anyssa Juarez, planning manager for Denver Housing Authority said, “The biggest issue is access. Southwest Denver is known for being highly multicultural, and a lot of [applications] are only available in English. [Applicants] may not be able to figure out how to get onto an online portal, and if it’s in a different language, forget it.” Juarez also said that this difficulty can be compounded, when the few employees a business may have are focused on running the business — up to 12 hours a day, often seven days per week. Organizations like NEWSED and Mile High United Way are among those partners lending a hand in these hard-to-navigate grant and loan applications. IRMA CENDEJAS, BLOOMING IDEAS: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLACE DANIELA QUEZADA, ESTETICA DEL SOL: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLACE 6 DENVER VOICE October 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE LUZ VERONICA LOPEZ, NATURISTA LA BOTICA: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLACE MARIA CORRALS, BOTAS EL REY: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLACE DAMARIS RONKANEN, CULTURA CRAFT CHOCOLATE: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLAC MIMI LUONG, TRUONG AN GIFTS: COURTESY OF WEST DENVER MARKETPLACE To spread the word about the business community in West Denver, WDSBC compiled a directory of these small businesses on the program’s website, westdenvermarketplaces.com. This directory consolidates a variety of businesses, ranging from restaurants to auto shops, to art galleries, into an easily accessible virtual guide. Additionally, the coalition has filmed and posted promotional videos for 12 businesses, with more planned for the near future. Another key portion of the West Denver Marketplaces program is the creation of a gift card initiative. Also available on the website, the program allows patrons to purchase one gift card to use at any of 117 different businesses in the area. Juarez said that even though this program is in its early stages, the gift card option has already brought thousands of dollars directly to member businesses. According to Juarez, a driving factor behind the effort to support local enterprise is to mitigate displacement of residents through preservation and stabilization of businesses. “When you look at the data of southwest Denver, it has a higher percentage of doubled-up households than any other part of the city, meaning that people who are living in southwest Denver are at significant risk of displacement and becoming homeless,” Juarez said. “[We want to] make sure that we have continued investment coming to this area, and one of the ways we’re doing that is with this gift card.” Another reason to patronize these businesses? “[They’re] awesome. The area has some of the most culturally authentic businesses and people who live there,” Juarez said. “The restaurants, these are recipes that came from [owners’] great grandparents in Vietnam or in Mexico or other parts of the world, which is really neat to be able to experience. These are mom-and-pop shops that really genuinely care.” Moving forward, Juarez would like to see continued funding for the West Denver Marketplaces program, as well as a steady flow of new businesses to the area. “A lot of people ask, ‘How can I support locally? How can I support small businesses?’ And I’m hoping that if we continue to bring awareness to the program, this is a way that they’ll know how.” ■ October 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

INTERNATIONAL STORY DISABLED PEOPLE DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTED BY HOMELESSNESS - GETTING SUPPORT FEELS ‘NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE’ BY BETH STONE AND EMILY WERTANS HOMELESSNESS IS REACHING RECORD HIGHS IN THE UK. The latest statistics on statutory homelessness show that in March 2023, 104,510 households – including over 131,000 children – were living in hotels, hostels, B&Bs, and the like. But disabled people are particularly affected by homelessness, as our new report, commissioned by the Centre for Homelessness Impact, explores. While disabled people represent 22% of the overall population, a recent survey suggests they may represent up to 39% of the homeless population. According to government data, the number of people qualifying for homelessness support – such as emergency accommodation – in England because of a disability rose by 73% from 2018-22. In Wales, the numbers more than doubled from 2015-19. But these figures do not capture people whose disability is not recognized or disclosed, people experiencing “hidden homelessness”, such as sofa surfing, or those who were not found eligible for support. As well as physical disabilities, neurodevelopmental conditions, such as learning disabilities and autism, are worryingly overrepresented. Learning disabilities occur at 2% in the general population but 13% in homeless populations. Autism is estimated to occur in the general population at 1-2% but at 12-18% in homeless populations. WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE DISABLED AND HOMELESS For disabled people, homelessness can lead to the deterioration of existing conditions or the onset of new ones. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness among local councils and homelessness support charities makes it difficult for people to exit homelessness. Local councils must provide advice and alternative housing options to people who are homeless or facing homelessness, and have a duty to house people if they meet certain eligibility criteria. For disabled people in England and Wales, this involves proving you are more vulnerable than “most other people” because of a disability or health condition. Research shows this clause is subjective and can be inconsistently applied by housing officers. In our report and previous research by Beth Stone, we spoke to disabled and autistic people about their experiences of homelessness. Their experiences reveal some of the barriers people face in getting support. One caseworker at a charity in Leicester told us that not having an official neurodevelopmental diagnosis, such as autism or ADHD, can prevent access to housing or other support. But getting a diagnosis while homeless is exceptionally hard. It is difficult to access health services without a permanent address. And other factors associated with homelessness, such as mental health, can affect how people’s symptoms appear and complicate diagnoses. PHOTO BY MARIANNE BOS ON UNSPLASH When a local council does provide housing, it often does not have the accommodations people may need, such as being wheelchair accessible. Charlston, an autistic man with multiple sclerosis, explained the impact of inadequate housing on his health and wellbeing: “It took 10 months, of the council saying they could do nothing before I got offered a hostel room & another year before I got permanent accommodation. When I did get a tenancy agreement it was not disabled modified, no accessible shower as of yet, I’m still waiting. My health has deteriorated because of the disruptions to my housing. I’m grateful for a place that’s mine, just waiting for the moment I can truly call it home.” Due to resourcing issues in councils and support services, people are left with little choice but to accept unsuitable accommodation. In England, refusing accommodation – even on accessibility grounds – can lead to the council labeling a person “intentionally homeless”. They are then denied further support. As Megan, an autistic woman, put it: “When you have a disability, getting appropriate housing support feels nearly impossible. I don’t feel like my needs were ever taken seriously. I was told the only option was shared accommodation. Being autistic, living with multiple different people is not an option for me. They didn’t listen and I was told if I actually needed the support I would take whatever I could get.” Support from homelessness organizations and charities is essential to help people navigate complex services. But our findings show that many of these services lack the expertise and communication necessary to engage with disabled people. As a result, many are left to navigate with little help, which can significantly prolong homelessness. HOMELESSNESS RISK FACTORS Disabled people are often in precarious and inaccessible housing scenarios, which leads many to become homeless. They are more likely to be in social housing and less likely to own their own homes. And despite a recent government commitment to fully accessible housing, there is a chronic shortage of homes with features such as ramps, lifts, or lowered surfaces. In England, only 7% of homes incorporate the bare minimum of accessibility features. In Scotland, only 0.7% of local authority housing and 1.5% of properties managed by registered social landlords are wheelchair accessible. Disabled people are also more likely than non-disabled people to live in poverty, and are less likely to be in full-time employment. On top of this, they face significantly high additional monthly costs – £500 to £1000 to pay for specialist equipment or higher energy costs, for example – which are under-compensated by disability benefits. Disability benefit spending has been reduced by nearly £5 billion over the past decade. And additional reductions to housing benefits can price disabled people out of the renting market. According to the people we spoke to for our report, there is a postcode lottery when disabled people approach their local councils for support. In England and Wales, there is a lack of clarity on what support people are entitled to from the government, and how they can prove their disability meets the vulnerability clause. Policies at local, regional, and national levels aim to prevent and relieve homelessness. For example, the Homelessness Reduction Act (2017) places a duty on local authorities to try to prevent homelessness at earlier stages. But our analysis shows that these initiatives are not working to protect disabled people. In reality, their risk of entering and remaining homeless is worsening. ■ Beth Stone is a lecturer in social policy at the University of Bristol. Emily Wertans is a criminology academic at the University of Leicester. Courtesy of The Conversation / International Network of Street Papers 8 DENVER VOICE October 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY WOMEN WALK IN A VILLAGE IN INDIAN-ADMINISTERED KASHMIR. WOMEN HERE OFTEN FIND THEMSELVES LURED BY THE PROMISE OF A JOB INTO UNSUITABLE MARRIAGES. CREDIT: ATHAR PARVAIZ/IPS HUMAN TRAFFICKING: WOMEN LURED BY PROMISE OF JOBS AND SOLD AS BRIDES BY ATHAR PARVAIZ IT HAS BEEN OVER A DECADE since 32-year-old Rafiqa (not her real name) was sold to a villager after being lured by the promise that she would be employed in the handicrafts industry of Indian-administered Kashmir. But, instead of getting a job, she was sold to a Kashmiri man in central Kashmir’s Budgam district for a paltry sum of 50,000 Indian rupees (USD 605). Before the traffickers lured her, Rafiqa lived with her parents and three siblings in a poor Muslim family in West Bengal, a state in eastern India. Ranging from Rohingya refugees – there are an estimated 40,000 Rohingya refugees in India – to women in other states of the country, such as West Bengal and Assam, women are trafficked and sold as brides to men who find it hard to find brides within their communities. Such grooms often include aged, physically challenged, and men with mental health issues. Rafiqa’s husband, who drives a horse-cart for a living and lives in a one-room wooden shed, had to sell the only cow he possessed to pay the sum to the human traffickers. She has now come to terms with “what I was destined to face in my life.” Embracing the reality, she says, was the only option left with her. “I could have either tried to escape or taken some extreme step, but I decided to apply myself positively to make some kind of life out of what I ended up with,” Rafiqa told IPS while sitting at the base of the small wooden staircase of her house. “My husband’s simplicity and kind nature were also helpful in taking this decision – even though I didn’t like his appearance.” “Now I have three kids for whom I have to live,” Rafiqa said. “I miss my parents and siblings. But it is very difficult to visit them. Even if I convince my husband, we can’t afford to visit them as it takes a lot of money to pay for the travel,” she added, saying her husband hardly provides two square meals for the family. Rafiqa is not the only trafficked woman in that village. Over a dozen women have ended up getting married in similar circumstances. Elsewhere in the region, hundreds of other women from the Indian states of West Bengal and Assam are married to divorced and physically challenged men. When 23-year-old Zarina (name changed), a woman from a poor family in West Bengal, got ensnared in a human trafficker’s trap, she had no idea that she would end up marrying a man whom she had never seen and was almost double her age. Zarina also fell for the false promise that a job in a carpet manufacturing unit in north Kashmir’s Patan area would be arranged for her. But, to her shock, she was sold into marriage. “Now, how will my situation change after talking to you if it has not changed in the last five years? This is where I must be all my life,” an annoyed Zarina told IPS and then refused to elaborate. Some women who encounter human traffickers are far unluckier. In a village of southern Kashmir’s Anantnag district, a young Rohingya woman was sold to a family by traffickers for their son with mental health issues after she was trafficked from a Rohingya refugee makeshift camp in the adjacent Jammu province. “We were surprised when we discovered that the family has got a bride for their son who we knew was not mentally sound since his childhood,” said a neighbor of the family. “We would hear her screaming when her husband used to beat her almost every day. But fortunately for her, the young Rohingya woman was somehow able to escape after a few months.” There are not any accurate official figures about sold brides, but some estimates say that thousands of girls and women are sold annually. The media sometimes reports the arrest of human traffickers, but such reports are not that common. On 26 July, India’s Minister of State for Home Affairs, Ajay Kumar Mishra, told the Indian parliament that 1,061,648 women over 18 years of age and 251,430 girls less than 18 years of age went missing between 2019 and 2021 across different states in the country. Mishra, however, said that most of the victims have been found and added that the Indian government has taken several initiatives for the safety of women. Last year in April, India’s National Commission for Women launched an Anti-Human Trafficking Cell “to improve effectiveness in tackling cases of human trafficking, raising awareness among women and girls, capacity building and training of Anti Trafficking Units, and to increase the responsiveness of law enforcement agencies.” In its 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report, the US Department of State identifies India as a Tier 2 country. “The Government of India does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so. The government demonstrated overall increasing efforts compared with the previous reporting period, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, if any, on its anti-trafficking capacity; therefore, India remained on Tier 2,” the report says. ■ Courtesy of Inter Press Service / International Network of Street Papers October 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY MARRAKECH ARTISANS AMONG THOSE HIT HARD BY EARTHQUAKE’S DEVASTATION BY ABBEY STOCKSTILL A POWERFUL EARTHQUAKE that hit close to the medieval city of Marrakech in Morocco on Sept. 8, 2023, has killed thousands and injured many more. It has also put at risk buildings and monuments of major historic importance, among them the minaret of the Kutubiyya mosque, a 12thcentury structure that is an icon of the city. The Medina, the medieval walled portion of the city, is now littered with rubble. The cultural significance of the Medina extends far beyond the antiques and trinkets sold to tourists. It is the location of numerous artisan workshops that make the ceramic tiles, carved plaster, and intricate woodwork that decorate the city. Many of these workshops have maintained traditional methods for centuries, transmitting skill sets down through the generations. Part of Morocco’s bid for Marrakech’s UNESCO status was based on these craft traditions being “intangible cultural heritage,” which the UN describes as knowledge or skills that are passed down orally rather than in written form. A MAN WALKS PAST A DAMAGED BUILDING IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF MARRAKECH, FOLLOWING A POWERFUL EARTHQUAKE IN MOROCCO, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023. JANA MEERMAN/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS 10 DENVER VOICE October 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY PAGE TITLE I’ve been working in Marrakech since 2014, living there on and off as I completed research on a book about the development of Marrakech as a medieval metropolis. Although my work focused on the 12th century, the more I learned about the city, the more I realized that most of the urban fabric and architectural sites I was looking at were thanks to the conservation efforts of local workshops. The UNESCO designation was a historical acknowledgment of the traditions of poor and rural communities that can often get left out of larger conversations about art history. It is precisely these communities that have maintained Marrakech’s architectural heritage generations, but the earthquake has destroyed the workshops and residences of many in the Medina. These poor and rural communities are at their most vulnerable just when their skills will be needed the most to help rebuild the city after this disaster. ORAL ORIGINS Marrakech was founded in 1070 by the Almoravid dynasty, which derived from a tribe that was part of a larger nonArab confederation of peoples now referred to as Berbers. It was one of the first major cities in the wider Islamic west, known as the Maghrib – now comprising Morocco, Algeria, and parts of Tunisia - to be founded by a group indigenous to the region. The majority of the community spoke a dialect of Tamazight, an Afro-Asiatic language distinct from Arabic. It was primarily an oral language, meaning that knowledge was more commonly handed down via poetic stories rather than written texts. Some Arabic sources described the Almoravids as “unsophisticated” and “illiterate,” yet the evidence of their architectural and artistic heritage suggests otherwise. In Marrakech, they built an elegantly proportioned dome known as the Qubba al-Barudiyyin and commissioned the elaborate wooden minbar (pulpit) that now sits in the Badi� Palace Museum. They were followed by the Almohad dynasty, another largely indigenous group, that faced similar accusations in historical accounts despite building the Kutubiyya minaret, Marrakech’s signature monument. SITE OF INDEPENDENCE MOVEMENTS The city’s origins as a Berber capital contributed to making Marrakech the epicenter of contemporary Moroccan national identity, rooted in a pride and independence centuries old. Whereas other North African cities had roots in Arab or Roman tradition, Marrakech could claim to be distinctly Moroccan. In the face of Ottoman expansion in the 16th century, the kingdom of Morocco, based out of Marrakech, was the sole region of the Arabic-speaking world to maintain its autonomy from Turkish control. Although the French and the Spanish would compete for the colonial rule of the country, the Moroccan independence movements of the 20th century were largely based out of Marrakech. The city was so prone to revolt that the French administration moved the colonial capital further north to Rabat. Even the word “Morocco” is derived from an etymological transmutation of “Marrakech.” A HIDDEN HISTORY And yet, recovering the city’s significant past is an exercise in reading between the lines. The oral traditions of the city’s founders were rarely faithfully transcribed. Written sources are often scattered and unpublished, and those that do exist are often written by outsiders or visitors to the city. The Ottomans were excellent record-keepers, enabling scholars to explore extensive centralized archives on every part of the Arabic world – except Morocco, whose archives remain dispersed and underfunded. Historians have had to work obliquely to uncover concrete details, relying on archaeological and anthropological research to supplement oral traditions. Integral to these efforts was the role of craft traditions in and around Marrakech. Craft was a key point of France’s colonial efforts in Marrakech, where they established for “artisan schools” in the Medina to ostensibly document and preserve their methods. In doing so, the French Protectorate - which ruled the country from 1912 to 1956 - created a kind of living nostalgia within the Medina, conflating the people who actually lived there with the city’s medieval past. This effectively created a form of economic and social segregation in which craftsmen and their families were siloed into the old town, while the wealthier expatriates and tourists occupied the Ville Nouvelle outside the medieval walls. PRESERVING THE PAST THROUGH CRAFT At the same time, these craft traditions are also what made it possible to preserve and restore many of the sites in and around Marrakech that now draw thousands of tourists each year. The Qasba Mosque, the city’s “second” major mosque after the Kutubiyya and originally built between 1185 and 1189, underwent successive restorations in both the 17th and 21st centuries after political instability led to their decline. In both cases, local artisans were employed to renovate the mosque’s stucco walls and the mosaic tile work known as zellij. The 11th-century Almoravid pulpit required a team of Moroccan craftsmen to successfully restore the minbar’s intricate marquetry. Artisans have also been important ambassadors for Morocco’s place in the larger canon of Islamic art, building a courtyard as part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s 2011 renovation of their Islamic galleries using 14th-century techniques and materials. With the Marrakech Medina partially destroyed, many of these artisans and workshops will face tough choices regarding their future. Gentrification over the last decade has priced many residents out of their ancestral homes, and many of these workshops operate on thin margins – too thin to both pay for damages and retain control over their property. REBUILDING INTANGIBLE HERITAGE Parts of the city walls cracked in the earthquake, and an 18th-century mosque in the main square lost its minaret. The historic 12th-century site of Tinmal, not far from Marrakech and nestled in the Atlas Mountains, has also collapsed. The human toll of the earthquake is still being tallied, and the material damage is likely to be extensive. Nothing can replace the loss of life. Yet the history and resilience of a place are instrumental in any recovery. It will be the role of Marrakech’s intangible heritage – its artists and artisans – to rebuild after this disaster. In the midst of narratives about caliphs and sultans, philosophers, and poets, it can be easy to forget that the people who built these places often went unnamed in the historical texts. But these artists will need support to maintain Marrakech’s history, to preserve the past for future historians to discover. ■ Courtesy of The Conversation / International Network of Street Papers DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org October 2023 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS BACK ON THE STREETS: HOW I SPENT MY SUMMER BY JOHN ALEXANDER, VOICE VENDOR so many homeless, who may form their own families and communities, but when it comes to interacting with people outside of their communities, they remain invisible. ■ This “Back on the Streets” piece is in homage to Brian Augustine, who passed away in January. When he died, Augustine was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to living on the streets when he could no longer afford his rent. Through the end of this year, various VOICE vendors intend to contribute something in honor of Brian Augustine’s legacy. SINCE COMING TO COLORADO, I have learned the importance of having self-worth. I learned to care about myself to the point that I will not let anyone ever tell me I am stupid and can’t be anything – that I have nothing useful to say, or don’t know anything, so I should keep quiet. Well, let me tell you, you should never believe this negativity or let it stay in your head. You can do whatever you want to. Only you can stand up for yourself. If you hold onto the mean or hurtful things people say about you, over time, you will believe them. I have learned not to keep those kinds of words in. BE YOUR BEST SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN HERE I AM, BACK ON THE STREETS… AGAIN. I spent much of my summer – off and on – as part of one of Denver/Lakewood’s so-called tent communities. I was literally spending time with many homeless people – on the ground, in vacant buildings, parks, vacant lots, vacant tents, working cars, junk cars… you name it, I claim it. All of these were filled with other people (and all of those people there were homeless). I began to know these homeless people – meeting them, living amongst them, caring for and about them. Some times were happy – many of those times were sad ones. Living every day with each of them, learning that some had gone to jail or to the hospital – and finding out that many of us were NEVER coming home – even if that “home” was back on the streets. With homelessness comes sickness and lots of addiction, but nothing in the world is more deadly than the combination of drug addiction and alcoholism. When people are evicted from their homes, they often become homeless. Homeless people face all the hardships of life, and they are forced to live and cope with every hardship every day. During July and August, I spent time with a homeless family – a mother, a son, (whom I saw very little of), and a daughter, who wasn’t more than 17. Both the mother and daughter were drug-addicted, but the girl’s addiction was the worst. She took drugs in all the different ways possible. She popped pills, snorted pills, shot pills and heroin. Several times I was asked to watch over the girl until she got better. The only thing that happened a lot during this period, and something I still do not understand is how the police made many stops at the different camps and places where I would be – but the police never said anything to me. I would catch them, looking at me from a distance, but they didn’t approach me. I heard them ask someone else, “Who is that guy?” or “Do you know him?” Maybe they recognized me from vending the Denver VOICE. Maybe they’ve seen my photo in the VOICE’s marketing materials, but not once did they talk to me. They would carry on just like I was not visible…. This experience of being back on the streets – even if for a little while – reminded me what it is like for ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN Words can lift you up or break you down. It is up to us which we choose. I have learned to believe in myself. When you are so broken and you can’t see anything but the pain you feel, there is no hope for you – only pain. I have learned to forgive myself for staying in the pain for so long. You may do drugs and alcohol to kill the pain, and for a while, it may work, but in time, you become a slave to the drugs and alcohol. Loving words are better than hateful words or actions. We need to look around and see who we can help. If you aren’t able to help others but need help yourself, get help right away. Don’t wait to get help, or you could end up dead. There is no shame in asking for help. Things from our past can hold us hostage when we grow up! If you get help, you can have a beautiful life. Take my words to heart because I have my best life now! I have so much self-worth that I will not allow anyone or anything to take away my happiness ever again. At some point, you need to let go of all the stuff that is RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA holding you back. Only when we let go of the negative can we have a better life with less pain. I can’t tell you how important it is to get the help you need. Love yourself enough to better your life. You are worth it! ■ 12 DENVER VOICE October 2023 EVENTS DENVER WALKING TOUR Learn more about the mile high city via this popular walking tour. Tour takes about 2 – 2.5 hours. WHEN: Daily at 10 a.m. COST: Pay-what-you-wish tipping model WHERE: Front steps of Colorado State Capitol, 200 E. Colfax Ave. INFO: denverfreewalkingtours.com INTRO TO IMPROV: DROP-IN CLASS Curious to see if improv comedy is right for you? This drop-in workshop will allow you to experience RISE Comedy’s improv classes in a safe, supportive, and fun environment! WHEN: Oct 5, 12, 19, and 26, 6 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. COST: $10 WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. INFO: risecomedy.com PUMPKIN HARVEST FESTIVAL Celebrate the arrival of fall at this annual family-friendly event. Guests can enjoy live music, seasonal treats, a farmer’s market, tractor rides, pioneer games, crafts, demonstrations, and more. WHEN: Oct. 14 and Oct. 15, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. COST: $16 - $35; children 3 and under are free. WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest Street INFO: fourmilepark.org GLOW AT THE GARDENS Enjoy larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures, spooky live entertainment, and hordes of gourds with thousands of jack o’ lanterns made from real, locally grown pumpkins. WHEN: Oct. 17 - 22, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. COST: $21 - $27, free admission for children 2 and younger WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street INFO: botanicgardens.org NERD NITE If you’re a fan of TED talks, the Discovery Channel, and/or Wikipedia binges, Nerd Nite is the show for you! Three experts will present on three different topics, while the audience drinks and thinks along. Be there and be square! WHEN: Oct 27, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: $10 in advance, $15 at the door WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: nerdnitedenver.com HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR It’s a spooktacular outing for all boys and ghouls! This family-favorite event features music from film, television, and more! Costumes are encouraged! WHEN: Oct 29, 2:30 p.m. COST: Tickets start at $27, $10 for children (12 and under) WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall, 14th Ave. & Curtis St. INFO: coloradosymphony.org October 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 ACROSS 1. Element you don’t want in your water 5. Letter letters 10. Some mobile homes, for short 13. Key chain? 15. “Middlemarch” author 16. “Gulp!” 17. Bloodhound’s trail 18. Go-between...or, with 61-Across, what you must do to each theme answer for its clue to make sense 20. Give this for that 22. Hypnotic 23. Blue hue 25. Word before nerve or after fiber 26. Common noun ending 27. Kramer’s first name, on “Seinfeld” 30. Snaky swimmers 32. Turin’s river 35. Flying geese formation 36. Make ___ for (justify) 39. Nightmarish street 40. Two-time Oscar winning actress Dianne 42. Negating prefix 43. Undercover operation 46. Like some churches: Abbr. 48. Org. 49. Mom’s mom 53. Heart of France 55. Comprehends 57. Card game also called “Cheat” 60. Comes to 61. See 18-Across 63. Washer cycle 64. Giant slugger Mel 65. Snappish 66. Elizabeth I was the last one 67. Exec in charge of company safety 68. Promo 69. Director Gus Van ___ DOWN 1. Portuguese capital 2. Slip away 3. Advisories 4. They know the drill 5. Chest muscle, for short 6. Reunion attendee 7. Bar mitzvah, e.g. 8. Question after a tasteless joke 9. Namesake for one of Portland’s nicknames 10. Fetch 11. 10-Across, e.g. 12. Design detail 14. Flower or wineglass support 19. Head of France 21. Dash 24. Runners 28. They contain grain 29. Caribbean dances 31. Stiffen 33. “For ___ a jollyÖ” 34. Possess 36. Big fuss 37. Paths for electricity 38. Three words on the cover of some autobiographies 41. Saint ___ of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits (anagram of SUIT GAIN) 44. Chapel Hill athlete 45. Rapper who plays a cop on “Law & Order: SVU” 47. Didn’t break, as a levee 50. Girl’s name that becomes another girl’s name if you follow the instructions in 18- and 61-Across literally 51. Wrestling hold 52. Declare 54. Former name for a court org. (it has since dropped the L) 56. Database command 57. Popular college guy, briefly 58. “___ Excited” (Pointer Sisters hit) 59. Giant armadillo (anagram of TAUT) 62. 1/1 COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Anonymous Individual Donor The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Bank of America Charitable Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Envestnet $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Katherine Standiford Frederic K Conover Trust Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Rose Community Foundation Russell Peterson Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Megan Arellano Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund Donald Weaver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Julia and David Watson Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity 14 DENVER VOICE October 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, VETERAN SUPPORT COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY LIFT: 5045 W. 1st Ave., Denver; rentassistance.org DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/ treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F 9am-12pm: harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins 303-296-1767; Dental 303-296-4873; M-F 8am-2pm LIVE ANOTHER DAY: 877-596-6866; Equal access to life-saving mental health and substance abuse resources; 24/7 helpline: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepc-connection.org; viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; 988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; 1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic Hours: 7am-4pm M/T/Th/F; 9am-6pm Wed; coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: Helpline 888-493-4670; detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); thehotline.org CAREER SERVICES BAYAUD ENTERPRISES CW-STEP: (Colorado Works - Subsidized training and employment program); 333 W. Bayaud Ave.; 303-830-6885; Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm; Provides re-entry to the workforce for individuals with TANF eligibility; info@bayaudenterprises.org COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER: Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway; 720-865-1706; M & T - 10am-8pm; Wed., Th &F - 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, WIFI, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments; denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER: Denver Dept of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd.; M-F 7:30am-4:30pm; Employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé prep, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc.; careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center WORKNOW: 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITE: 212-461-4401 truecolorsunited.org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, Wed.-Fri.; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.: Aurora 303-399-8020: va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: Veterans Disability Calculator veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE: 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412 Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK: 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours M-F 8-11am urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; sunshinebehavioralhealth.com TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 3080 Broadway, Boulder; 303-447-1207, 303-447-1207; For ages 12-24; Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services; M-Sun, 12:30-5pm; tgthr.org URBAN PEAK: 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; urbanpeak.org October 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777;; Helps with employment, IDs, birth certs, mail services and lockers; M-Th - 10am-2pm; citysquare.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F - 7am-1pm; Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc.; thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc.; M, W, Th, F - 8:30am-5pm, T - 8:30am-1:30pm; tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 E. Colfax; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harmreduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; M-F - 9am-12pm; harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Help with lost IDs and birth certificates; holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM: 1555 Race St.; 303-832-3354; For men and women with HIV; M-F 8am-4pm LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; Day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services; homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, wifi; M-F 7a-5:30p; odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St; 303-297-1576; 6am-6pm daily; Storage for one bag (when space is available); Satellite Clinic hours- M, T, Th. F - 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm; sfcdenver.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee M-F. 8:30am; denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:45-12:15; mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F only: 7am-1pm. 8am breakfast, 11am lunch; havenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY: Food service on second and fourth Thursdays; feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS: Sun. 4 p.m.; 22nd St. Stout St (near Mercury Café); Instagram: @denverfoodnotbombs HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH: 29th and Milwaukee St.; Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm; jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY: 126 W. 2nd Ave.; 303-722-8781 Dinner at 4pm on Tues; Also offers a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available; stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. (Auraria Campus), 11am 7 days/week; food/coffee; stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm; Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon.; saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; soallmayeat.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER: 608 26th St., Thurs dinners, 6pm-7pm; lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St.; breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun.; food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetrofoodnutrition-themission DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

On Tuesday, December 5, our community will come together to “give where we live” during Colorado’s largest one-day online giving event. We invite you to join our community on this day and support the Denver VOICE! This year we have a goal of raising $30,000 on Colorado Gives Day, and all gifts made that day on our website will link you directly to this effort. But you can schedule your gift starting November 1! Simply go to www.coloradogives. org/denvervoice/overview. Under the donation amount, check the box that says “Schedule a donation for Colorado Gives Day” and complete the process. Your gift delivers ongoing support for the more than 100 individuals we employ each year through the vendor program - giving everyone that comes to us in need the opportunity that comes from tools of empowerment and hope for change! DECEMBER 5 (schedule your donation now!)

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Clowning for Clowning for lowning fo GO GOOD OO g O ODD Blahawsome & Rhythm prove not all clowns are the stuff of nightmares. PAGE 6 Blahawsome & Rhythm ‘Blahawsome’ & ‘Rhythm’ LOSE YOUR ID, LOSE YOUR IDENTITY WHEN A PERSON LOSES THEIR ID WITH NO REPLACEMENT, THEY ARE VIRTUALLY DISAPPEARED FROM SOCIETY. PAGE 4 WHAT SOCIAL HOUSING COULD LOOK LIKE DENVER CITY COUNCIL ADDS TO LIST OF POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS TO HOMELESSNESS. PAGE 8 TUNING IN TO HIP-HOP LOCAL NONPROFIT INTRODUCES DENVER TEENS TO MUSICMAKING AND PRODUCTION. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 5, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 SEPTEMBER 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 9 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: CLOWNS, RHYTHM AND BLAHAWESOME HOPE TO CHANGE THE STIGMA OF CLOWNS. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL

EDITOR’S NOTE FOR THIS MONTH’S Ask a Vendor question, Raelene Johnson, who has been with the VOICE for 16 years, suggested we ask vendors what lessons they’ve learned from vending the Denver VOICE street paper. If you’ve met Raelene, there’s ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR a good chance you’ve heard her compelling story. While Raelene will share some of her darkest moments leading up to becoming a Denver VOICE vendor, she also talks about how grateful she is to have been given a second chance. In our In Your Own Words section of this issue, you’ll see that Raelene has changed up her “Self Talks,” and instead, she has expanded on the list of lessons she has learned from being a VOICE vendor. While those lessons come from her experience, they apply to all of us. Learning to love ourselves is no easy feat, but Raelene’s words are a great reminder that it is worthwhile to make time to develop that relationship with Self. Another vendor who is a regular contributor to In Your Own Words is Gigi Galen. When she brought her illustration of the tiger (see page 13), Gigi told me it had a special meaning to her. The words “strong,” “defiant,” courageous,” and “assertive,” are pieces of herself she draws upon when she has to deal with unpleasant people, who treat those dealing with housing or financial instability as inferior beings. Gigi is a quiet soul, who likes her privacy and prefers being out of the limelight. But she is a strong and courageous person, who will assert that she – like any other human – deserves common courtesy, and when she or anyone around her is the recipient of someone’s inhumanity, she will defiantly challenge their behavior and intolerance. Whether it is a poem, story, illustration, or their answer to our Ask a Vendor question, Denver VOICE vendors put themselves out there so others can learn from their experiences, and those experiences teach us all the lessons of perspective and gratitude. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, and Medium.com. FRANK DIANGELI is a PNW transplant who has spent six years in Colorado. He has previously spent much of his professional career working in case management at a homeless shelter. He loves movies, making music, and throwing any kind of flying disc. ADRIAN MICHAEL is a Denver-based photographer who specializes in editorial, portraiture, documentary and street photography. He’s been creating images for over 15 years and has a passion for capturing the true essence of people. DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Lanie Lee Cook Aaron Sullivan ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Gigi Galen Adrian Michael WRITERS 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. Robert Davis Frank DiAngeli David Gordon Raelene Johnson Adrian Michael Jerry Rosen Steve Szloboda BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Michael Burkley Antonio Diaz Jennifer Seybold 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE September 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q A What lessons have you learned from being a Denver VOICE vendor? RAELENE JOHNSON I have learned how to communicate with people. Vending the paper has also taught me how to be my own boss and allowed me to have my own home. I also have become a good writer and have been told that I help others with the words I have written. STEVE SZLOBODA Curiosity is linked so closely with success because it drives you into the unknown, which is where you make discoveries. JERRY ROSEN I have learned about being courteous to customers and having a lot of patience when vending the paper. I have learned to be very nice to cusomters. Sometimes, a few people might be rude, but I still act nice to everybody. DAVID GORDON I have learned a lot about myself. I’ve learned how to motivate myself and have become a self-starter. I know how different we can be and how alike we can be. I have learned to respect myself and others and I’ve also learned to love me. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. September 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

PAGE TITLE NATIONAL STORY SUMMER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. LOSE YOUR ID, LOSE YOUR IDENTITY BY TJ JOHNSTON IN 2019, WHEN I WAS HOMELESS, I lost my ID. I retraced my steps to the stores where I knew I had taken it out when I fished for store cards and cash in my pouch. No luck—it wasn’t at any of them. That meant I had to undergo the rigmarole of replacing my ID. At least I still had my Social Security card, knew where I kept my birth certificate, and had access to the paperwork waiving the fee to unhoused California residents—which is not always true for many people experiencing homelessness. It was only a matter of bringing them to the Department NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick, sunscreen Bottled water of Motor Vehicles, taking the requisite photo, and waiting for the DMV to mail it to the office where I write for Street Sheet. The replacement was the then-new Real ID I would need if I were to board an airplane for a domestic flight or enter any federal government facility. It was also renewed for another five years, so I needn’t bother returning to the DMV—at least for the time being. Without an ID issued by a local, state, or federal agency, unhoused people can’t access public benefits or other services. When a person loses their ID with no replacement, they are virtually disappeared from society. It’s as if they don’t exist. The New York University School of the Law’s Brennan GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! Center found in a 2006 study that 11% of the US population lack a state-issued ID. That works out to approximately 21 million people unable to prove who they say they are. The Brennan Center also concluded that 7% of US citizens carry no proof of citizenship, including birth certificates, passports, or naturalization papers. The people less likely to have any ID are minorities, and people earning less than $35,000 per year. These are groups whose members are very likely to face homelessness, and if one were to draw a Venn diagram, it would show much overlap between those groups. The absence of ID can have the same impact as a natural disaster. If that last sentence sounds hyperbolic, I submit the seniors, case of Wendi Taylor of Houston, Texas. Taylor’s trailer park was flooded when Hurricane Harvey hit in the summer of 2017. During the evacuation, she lost the bag containing her documents when the National Guard boat capsized. After two years, Taylor was still unable to take the first step toward establishing her identity. “My ID has not been replaced yet,” she said when I interviewed her in 2019. “I’m stuck in a catch-22 of needing a photo ID to get a Social Security card and needing a Social Security card to get a photo ID.” Under Texas law, Taylor would have to produce a combination of documents to get an ID. Today, that would include proof of identity, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, residency, and a Social Security card. Soon, it won’t be any easier anywhere else. As of 7 May 2025, new barriers to establishing identity could be created when the federal Real ID Act takes effect. Two proofs of a residential address must also be provided—and a post office box won’t satisfy the address requirement, said Derrick Soo, a former construction contractor now living in Oakland, California. Soo said that an applicant in California must provide a bill for utilities, such as electricity, cable or satellite TV, or landline phone service, to show proof of address. “This is creating a huge issue for those living curbside,” he said. When interviewed in 2019, Soo said he hoped to be housed before needing to renew his ID. His then-current address was that of a now-defunct business across the street from his campsite. That address allowed him to receive mail and deliveries even after the business moved in 2016. It also added the benefit of protection from the authorities. A police officer who tried to force Soo to break camp was thwarted when Soo showed him his ID. “He had no choice but to allow me to set up my shelter on the property of the address on my ID,” Soo said. “No city official or police could do anything about me.” The San Francisco encampment dwellers I interviewed for the Stolen Belonging project weren’t as fortunate. Residents living in improvised structures lost their IDs—as well as medications and other survival materials, among other possessions—when City workers confiscated them during sweeps. To my knowledge, they were never recovered nor replaced. Now, these seizures are the subject of a lawsuit a group of unhoused San Franciscans filed against the City. When my ID was replaced two weeks after my DMV visit, I was relieved and grateful. With it, a multitude of things were again possible for me—first and foremost, just being. ■ Courtesy of Street Sheet / International Network of Street Papers @DenverVOICE CREDIT: ACHOLEK-CZ FROM PIXABAY 4 DENVER VOICE September 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY market means – demand and supply cannot adjust to price signals. Other allocation mechanisms could arise instead. For example, households might queue for many years for a rent-controlled property. Landlords might expect additional informal payments to make up for lost rental income. People desperate for somewhere to live might feel forced to pay more than the regulated rent to access a property. Rent control advocates argue that these negative side effects could be managed through better policy design and stronger regulation (on property quality and security of tenure, as well as stricter policing of unlawfully high rents). Opponents, meanwhile, argue that rather than construct a complex and costly regulatory regime to try to make rent control work, it is better not to start down the rent control route in the first place. DIFFERENT HOUSING MARKETS A key point when discussing the effectiveness of rent control policy is that the concerns set out above don’t apply equally in all housing market contexts. The most negative assessments of rent control typically refer to so-called “first-generation” rent controls. These freeze rents at their level when the policy is introduced. “Second-generation” rent controls, meanwhile, regulate CREDIT: TOM RUMBLE ON UNSPLASH RENT CONTROL ON ITS OWN WON’T SOLVE THE HOUSING CRISIS BY ALEX MARSH AND KENNETH GIBB RENT CONTROL IS FREQUENTLY PROPOSED AS A SOLUTION to the housing crisis. Advocates might not always be precise about what they mean by the term, but the idea of regulating, capping, or stabilizing rents tends to attract popular support. In 2020-2021 in England, over two-thirds (71%) of private renters in the lowest two-fifths of the income distribution spent more than 30% of their income on rent – a widely used measure of affordability or housing stress. The private rental sector in England has also doubled in size over the last 20 years. In other words, many more people are now affected by high rents. The impact of rising rents is significant. In November 2022 44% of households reported struggling with their housing costs; 6% had fallen behind with their payments. Among private renters, this increased to 53% who were struggling but managing to keep up with their rent and 8% who had fallen behind. Proponents of rent control either see it as an urgent response or a long-term measure to short-term crisis manage market excesses. Both views are evident in the Scottish government’s commitment to introducing rent control during the current parliamentary term (202126). In response to the cost of living crisis, Holyrood has also introduced a temporary rent freeze and capped rent increases for existing private tenancies. Research shows, however, that rent control on its own cannot fix things. It must go hand in hand with additional social housing and further measures to address housing affordability. NEGATIVE SIDE EFFECTS OF RENT CONTROL Some housing scholars argue that a carefully designed rent control system could contribute to addressing affordability problems. Few, however, see rent control as the key to achieving rental affordability. Some economists reject the idea entirely. The most common objection is that because rent control restricts landlords’ financial returns, it risks them leaving the market and discourages new landlords. This in turn would see a reduction in the supply of rental properties, making access to housing even more difficult. The more aggressively rents are suppressed, the bigger the disincentive to landlords. However, whether a landlord leaving the private sector means the loss of a rental property, depends on who buys the property. The second common objection is that capping rental income could encourage landlords to cut back on maintenance expenditure, effectively reducing the quality of their properties. Quality in the private rental sector is already comparatively poor in the UK. Our analysis of recent evidence suggests that this objection is justified. Third, unless it covers the whole private rented sector, rent control can freeze households in place. It increases incentives for existing tenants to stay put, creating “insiders” and “outsiders” – those who have access to regulated rents and those who don’t. Our review of the evidence suggests that this can lead to a net loss in societal well-being. The fourth common objection is that price caps would prevent properties from being allocated through normal rents within and between tenancies. They typically focus not on rent levels but on moderating rent increases. And “third generation” rent controls simply control rent increases for existing tenants. Here, landlords can reset rents at market levels when they re-let the property. Whether rent control causes landlords to leave the market depends on what the rent control regulations allow and on landlords’ characteristics. If landlords can make an acceptable return from regulated rents then they wouldn’t have such a strong incentive to exit. Differences in policy design and housing context mean that while there is plenty of research on rent control, there is debate on how the findings apply. Both advocates and critics can find evidence to buttress their position. There are no simple or unambiguous conclusions on key issues. We have shown that there is also political risk. Free market proponents, opposed to the view that even mild second- or third-generation rent control could help the housing market, argue that introducing any rent control increases landlords’ perceptions of political risk. Landlords will react to the possibility of a more aggressively interventionist policy in the future and leave the market while they can. There is not much evidence of this effect, however. Further, arguments about key side effects do not carry much force with firm advocates of rent control, whose aim may be to disrupt the system more fundamentally. To their minds, housing is a necessity, private landlords leaving the market is not a problem and rental housing should be provided by social landlords on a not-for-profit basis. The question remains then about how to meet housing needs if private landlordism shrinks. Simply arguing that more affordable social housing is necessary, doesn’t get any built. Housing affordability is a complex problem. It demands a suitably subtle combination of policies, rather than the single dramatic intervention of rent control. Alex Marsh is professor of public policy at the University of Bristol. Kenneth Gibb is professor of housing economics and director of the UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence at the University of Glasgow. ■ Courtesy of The Conversation / International Network of Street Papers September 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE CLOWNS BLAHAWESOME & RHYTHM THE CLOWN POSE WITH CHILDREN. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL much fun, so I stuck with it. The kids we met were so happy to see us; we had lots of interaction. It was great to brighten people’s day, and that was so rewarding.” Both Michelle and Mashika enjoy seeing people gravitating to them as clowns. “We’re bringing energy and life. Putting smiles on somebody’s face just makes the world of a difference. There’s so much negative stuff going on in the world, and it’s best to bring positivity,” Michelle said. BlahAwesome and Rhythm attended the Sixth Annual CLOWNS BLAHAWESOME & RHYTHM TAKE A SELFIE WITH A GROUP OF KIDS. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL BLAHAWESOME & RHYTHM: CLOWNING FOR GOOD BY ADRIAN MICHAEL “I NEVER IMAGINED I WOULD BE CLOWNING,” said Michelle Gaddis, “but I did love telling jokes and seeing people smile.” The ability to tell jokes would help Gaddis’ transition into an industry that she didn’t expect. “I had just experienced a lot of unexpected death,” she said. “My favorite cousin in 2013, my mom in 2014, and my sister in 2015. Since it was back-to-back deaths, it was hard to heal in the grieving process. I was asked if I would like to join the clown unit of the Shriners Daughters of the Imperial Court (an affiliate of the Prince Hall Shriners), and I agreed since it was something different, something to occupy my time.” Gaddis performs as BlahAwesome (a portmanteau of Blah and Awesome) and has been clowning since 2017. “As I started creating my [clown] image, I thought about my love of plants and flowers, and I said to myself ‘I want to blossom.’ I was going through so much, and some days I felt blah, and other days I felt awesome, thus how my name was created,” Gaddis said. RHYTHM TOSSES A FOOTBALL BACK & FORTH WITH GIRL. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL Gaddis said it took her four months of studying the art of clowning, gathering props, learning to apply makeup, and piecing together her wardrobe. It paid off when she was awarded “best new clown” in her first year attending the Imperial convention. Gaddis’ daughter, Mashika, has been performing as Rhythm the Clown since 2020. Her clown name comes from her love of dancing; however, she didn’t always share the same enthusiasm as her mother. “I wasn’t interested in clowning,” Mashika said, “but I gave it a shot, and our first appearance went great. We had so Aurora Day Backpack Giveaway in August, where they were able to showcase the energy and positivity that brings so many smiles to kids and adults. They helped pass out backpacks, taught kids how to do the Cupid Shuffle line dance, and took lots of photos with kids. Their appearance was to make sure the narrative of clowns changes. Horror movies such as “It” and “Terrifier” have contributed to the fear of clowns. In an October 2014 article in the Hollywood Reporter magazine, Clowns of America International President Glenn Kohlberger said, “Hollywood makes money…. sensationalizing the norm. They can take any situation, no matter how good or pure, and turn it into a nightmare, and we do not support in any way, shape, or form any medium that sensationalizes or adds to coulrophobia or ‘clown fear.’” 1 6 DENVER VOICE September 2023 LOCAL FEATURE BLAHAWESOME PROVIDES A HUG TO A CHILD. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL PROFILE PORTRAITS OF RHYTHM THE CLOWN & BLAHAWESOME POSE FOR A PICTURE WITH YONATHAN AND HIS DAUGHTER. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL According to a 2022 study published in the International Journal of Mental Health, about 53.5% of adults suffer from Coulrophobia, an extreme fear of clowns. 2 “We do get people who tell us they don’t like clowns, but as time goes on, they get closer to us,” said Michelle. “My cousin was afraid of clowns, and upon learning I was going to be a clown told me to make sure my energy is right. Clowns are spooky, and their energy isn’t always good. So, we listen to upbeat music when we’re getting ready. We get into our zone, dance, and have a good time just so our energy projects that we don’t want anyone to have a phobia of clowns.” Both Michelle and Mashika want people to know that they’re not evil people. “Don’t be afraid of me. I’m a person, and my clown attire is a persona,” said Mashika. Along with changing the narrative of evil clowns, there is also a stigma that there aren’t many female clowns. “There are only women in our [clown] unit,” said Michelle. “I never thought about it; there’s men when we go to our conventions, but within our unit, it’s just women. Growing up, I don’t think I knew of a woman clown, but now there are a lot of them.” According to the online recruitment service Zippia, 61.5% of clowns are women, 36% being women of color. However, only 10% of that makes up Black or African American women. 3 “There was a little Black girl that I saw today that told me she wants to be a clown. She was so adorable, and I told her I would love to have her learn to be a clown,” said Michelle. “It’s a great feeling knowing we could change the world with this. We’re changing the narrative and making clowns more positive for Black girls to see.” Mashika said, “At one point, it was frowned upon for people to be clowns, but when I tell people that I’m clowning today and they see it, they’ll say things such as ‘that’s cool’ or ‘I didn’t know that was you,’ and it’s a cool feeling.” For both Michelle and Mashika, clowning is a hobby, but they aspire to eventually do more with their craft. “It would be cool if we could set up an event at least once a month and have kids come. I really want to set up a stage for the kids to come in and be entertained,” said Michelle. As of right now, Michelle and Mashika are clowns that dance and tell jokes, but they’re looking to establish new skill sets. They’ve also been thinking about incorporating magic tricks and making balloon animals. “I’m trying to figure out what’s going to be entertaining and have thought about doing shows and skits,” Michelle said. “We get so many people asking us to appear at events, and I think the more we get out, the more people start knowing us and realize who we are. People see us and say ‘Oh, those are the clowns.’” The August backpack giveaway was highly successful for the community and brought smiles to kids and adults A LITTLE GIRL SHOWS BLAHAWESOME HER FINGERNAILS. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL BLAHAWESOME AND RHYTHM SMILE ATTENDEES OF THE AURORA DAY BACKPACK GIVEAWAY EVENT. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL alike. According to Michelle and Mashika, the moment BlahAwesome and Rhythm arrived, people swarmed them, and that atmosphere amongst the crowd was extremely positive. “I just want to make a difference wherever we can. If we can touch one person, then we’ve done something,” Michelle said. ■ 1 https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/ professional-clown-club-attacks-americane-740768/ 2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC9931735/#:~:text=Although%20the%20 prevalence%20of%20coulrophobia,et%20al.%2C%202022). 3 https://www.zippia.com/clown-jobs/demographics/ September 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN WHAT COULD SOCIAL HOUSING LOOK LIKE IN DENVER? BY ROBERT DAVIS DENVER’S LACK OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING has inspired creative solutions, from Safe Outdoor Spaces for the unhoused to cohousing for renters. Now, some local leaders are floating the idea of creating a social housing program in Denver to, as they say, provide some permanent relief from rising housing costs. District 8 Councilmember Shontel Lewis introduced the idea during a Budget & Policy Committee meeting on August 7, when she proposed funding a study about creating a social housing program in Denver’s 2024 budget. She said the idea was one she heard consistently while on the campaign trail. “What I am trying to get to is that we are taking a more comprehensive approach to how we are addressing the issues of housing and homelessness at the same time,” Lewis said during the meeting. WHAT IS SOCIAL HOUSING? The term “social housing” can refer to many things, but New York University’s Center on International Cooperation defines it as a model that prioritizes the “social value of housing for communities over its ability to generate profits for a select few.” These models can be subsidized by the government or run by not-for-profit entities. Social housing and public housing are often talked about synonymously, but they serve different purposes. Social housing differs from public housing in that it can serve both middle and low-income households, whereas public housing is reserved for people earning the lowest incomes. Social housing units can be offered on the free market and frequently cap rents for tenants at 30% to 35% of their income. The economic blend of tenants in social housing development also allows for higher-income tenants to effectively subsidize rents for lower-income tenants. On the other hand, public housing operators often require vouchers to access and rely on government reimbursements to manage their cash flow. Social housing is common in European countries like The Netherlands, where social housing units make up 29% of the overall housing stock, according to data from Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies. Austria, Denmark, and England also have robust social housing programs. Stateside, the idea is still relatively new. Seattle was one of the first U.S. cities to experiment with social housing when voters passed Initiative 135 in February. The initiative created a new development authority called the Seattle Social Housing Developer that is tasked with SHONTEL LEWIS. COURTESY OF DENVER.PRELIVE.OPENCITIES.COM 8 DENVER VOICE September 2023 LOCAL STORY However, Parady said the city attorney’s office disagrees with their perspective. “I think the big question is whether we can convince people that social housing is worth the lift of cutting through all the complexity to make it happen,” Parady told Denver VOICE. “We have such a large affordable housing shortage and that has become so urgent that solving the problem is viewed as an uphill climb by a lot of people.” While discussions about social housing in Denver are preliminary, there seems to be some disagreement about how a social housing model would work in Denver. One key component of this model is what’s known as “democratic resident control,” which essentially means that social housing tenants would form an association similar to a homeowners association. Shannon Hoffman, who advocated for social housing during her campaign for the District 10 seat on Denver City Council, said she would like social housing tenants to be required to serve on their tenant’s association as a way to promote a community dynamic within a building. She added that this idea is where her thinking diverges from other people she’s talked to about social housing. “We need an innovative and creative solution to our housing crisis, and we need affordable rents,” Hoffman told Denver VOICE in an interview. PRACTICAL CONCERNS There is also the practical problem of creating a new social housing development entity outside of the Denver Housing Authority and finding land to accommodate social housing developments. Hoffman said there has been talk about introducing a ballot initiative to create such an entity, but those discussions are preliminary as well. CREDIT: TOLU OLUBODE, UNSPLASH expanding the local public housing stock, but the entity’s work has yet to begin. California legislators are also toying with the idea of creating a statewide social housing development authority. For example, Assembly Bill 309 would require the new development authority to build up to three social housing projects on excess state-owned land. Similarly, Senate Bill 555 and Senate Bill 584 would establish social housing development goals and levy additional fees and taxes against short-term rental properties to support social housing developments. Lewis told Denver VOICE in an interview that she has pitched the idea of creating a social housing program to some city councilors as well as constituents who call her office to talk about housing issues. She added the response has been mixed, with some expressing reservations about the legality of Denver owning and operating real estate and the practical aspects of the program itself. “The reality is that this type of housing impacts a lot more people than we are currently talking about,” Lewis said. A BUDDING MOVEMENT Councilwoman Sarah Parady, one of Denver’s at-large representatives, told Denver VOICE in an interview that she supports the idea of creating a social housing model in the city. Outside of capping rents, Parady said social housing could also provide renters with more legal protections against eviction because renters who live in municipallyrun social housing units would be able to assert their constitutional rights during a dispute. However, there is an open question regarding whether Denver can own and operate real estate at all. Both Lewis and Parady said they believe Denver’s ordinances allow the city to own and operate its own housing developments. CREDIT: HENRY BECERRA, UNSPLASH Land issues surrounding social housing may prove to be easier to navigate given Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s willingness to try innovative housing programs. For example, Johnston is working to fulfill his campaign promise to create micro-communities of tiny homes and shelters to help people escape homelessness. However, land the city identified that could support such sites is primarily concentrated in historically underserved communities, Axios Denver reported. Lewis added that she is concerned about further concentrating poverty in places in Denver that “have a lot of affordable housing already.” Despite the disagreements, social housing supporters say the idea could help alleviate some of the pains caused by Denver’s unaffordable housing market. As of July 2023, there were just 563 homes for sale in Denver, a decline of 39% since July 2020, according to the Colorado Association of Realtors. Meanwhile, Denver’s median home price in Denver County was $696,500, which represents an increase of nearly 30% over the last three years. Similarly, the Metro Denver Apartment Association measured the city’s average rent at $1,870 in July, an increase of about 11% over three years. The average weekly wage in Denver, on the other hand, has only increased by 7.4% over the same time period, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows. Hoffman said that the city’s affordable housing challenges are also straining the local community. Teachers, firefighters, and service industry workers all struggle to afford housing in Denver, and the city wouldn’t function well without them. To that end, a social housing program in Denver could provide a safety net for workers who can’t afford the cost of living, she said. “We’re getting to the point where we don’t have much time left to sit back and think about this problem,” Hoffman said. “What we’ve been doing hasn’t worked, and we need to find new solutions.” ■ September 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

COMMUNITY PROFILE BRINGING HIP-HOP TO DENVER TEENS BY FRANK DEANGELI OREN BREGMAN’S CONFIDENCE can be felt through the phone. His charisma and laid-back energy create an air of familiarity, almost like we’ve spoken before (we have not). While I record our call on my ancient microphone and bootlegged audio software, our conversation flows smoothly from music, to life, and back. Bregman has reason enough to be self-assured. Since his teenage years, he’s been making significant achievements in the world of hip-hop, signing to Detroit-based label Traxside at 19. His band Coast to Ghost, long buzzing in the Denver area, is headed to Detroit this fall to record their second album. Bregman lives and breathes music, and more recently, he’s found a way to bring his passion to youths in the Denver area. Mobile Studio, a nonprofit organization founded, owned, and operated by Bregman, has been making a concerted effort to give teens access to the world of music production. The concept is fairly straightforward – Bregman drives a large van, full of instruments, microphones, and computers to meet kids where they are, and Bregman teaches those kids about almost any musical concept they’re interested in. This includes lyricism, vocalization, instrumentation, and recording. Participants are given opportunities to perform their music live or release their songs on streaming platforms, and many branch out from the program to make music on their own. Bregman came up with the idea for Mobile Studio through unrelated nonprofit work in Northeast Denver schools. “Some of the kids we worked with out there were tremendously talented,” Bregman said. “I thought, ‘Wow, what a shame that they really don’t have musical resources or access to a studio. Someone should really be bringing the studio to them.’” With years of experience in hip-hop production, Mobile Studio seemed like a no-brainer for Bregman. According to Bregman, the cost barrier to music production is real, with many projects requiring a computer, microphone, and expensive software to get started. But in Bregman’s experience, this is the kind of music through which kids prefer to express themselves. COURTESY OF OREN BREGMAN, MOBILE STUDIO COURTESY OF OREN BREGMAN, MOBILE STUDIO 10 DENVER VOICE September 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE PAGE TITLE DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. COURTESY OF OREN BREGMAN, MOBILE STUDIO “Being able to make music, specifically hip-hop and rap, is so refreshing to them,” Bregman said. “They don’t want to play the trombone, they want to do this.” According to Bregman, outside of the cost of equipment, hiphop can be an easily accessible art form. “You don’t need classical training, you don’t need a grand piano or a teacher,” Bregman said. “If you know how to count the beat, you can teach yourself.” He also noted how hip-hop, a historically Black art form, can be an empowering form of self-expression for the teens he works with, many of whom are Black or Latino. Bregman recalled being moved by a song that one of his pupils wrote about the Black Lives Matter movement, calling this a “magical” moment to witness. According to Bregman, the genre itself innately draws passion and truth from its creators. It gives students an outlet to speak out loud on things that are personal to them — to let their voices be heard through an exciting musical platform. He also said that hip-hop’s historically supportive culture allows this free expression in a tolerant environment. Bregman said his favorite part of the job is witnessing the kids he works with discover their passions for music. “For me, [a milestone] is the first time somebody creates their own song and hears it and thinks, ‘Wow, that’s me,’” Bregman said. He works to foster the creativity, leadership, and communication that students find through collaboration with one another. “Over time, you just see their confidence grow: They know how to record, they know how to make music collaboratively, [which is] really impressive,” he said. According to Bregman, when it comes to the future of Mobile Studio, he is thinking big: “Getting more equipment, going to more schools, maybe we’ll get another vehicle.” As the long-time sole employee, he’s also looking to bring more staff aboard. “It starts with growing our capacity,” Bregman said. “I’ve been doing this myself for a couple years now, and although it’s been really successful, [hiring] would be the next step.” Mobile Studio is currently in the process of revamping its website and social media profiles, and Bregman said he plans to capitalize on the momentum that Mobile Studio has generated so far. “Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll see Mobile Studio all over the country.” ■ To learn more about Mobile Studio, donate to the organization, or find out about upcoming events, visit https://mobile-studio-inc.org. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org COURTESY OF OREN BREGMAN, MOBILE STUDIO September 2023 DENVER VOICE 11 The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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.

IN YOUR OWN WORDS LESSONS LEARNED OVER THE LAST 20 YEARS BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR FINDING THE DENVER VOICE I thank the Denver VOICE for how my life has changed! Most of my life, I was told, “You have no worth at all.” I was labeled dumb at school. Being labeled like that really holds children back. I never thought anyone would want to hear what I had to say, but because of the VOICE, I truly have found my voice. I just needed a little help. That’s what the people who buy the paper or read our stories and poems have given. I thought I would die homeless, and then, when I came to the Denver VOICE, and I can’t believe how far I’ve come after 16.5 years with the Denver VOICE. If it wasn’t for the Denver VOICE, I don’t even think I’d be alive. They gave me a job when no one else would. Having a job helped me believe in myself. I could never be where I am now without the support of the people who have bought the paper from me, so I will thank you now. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA AS I AM SITTING HERE, looking at the past 20 years, I cannot believe how far I’ve come! I made a list of the lessons I’ve learned during that time. It is a long list, so I’ve organized the lessons into categories, and I would like to share them. HOMELESSNESS When you’re homeless, you can’t wash your clothes, take a bath, or shower. You have no address or phone. How would anyone think of giving you a job? Having no home and no job is a hard cycle to break. The longer you are homeless, the harder your life gets. I wished years ago someone would want to find out why we are on the streets. HOPE When you’ve lived many years on the streets, things happen to you. You lose hope, the longer you are there. Drugs and alcohol help dull the pain. You might try drugs for fun, but over time, the drugs start to control you. You want them so badly, you’ll do anything for them. You’ll do anything you wouldn’t do if you were clean. Losing hope is a hard pill to take. Change can’t happen when you have no hope. A person needs hope and kindness shown to them in order to see they can change and to feel like they’re worth something. Once we learn that, our lives start to change. When we believe we deserve better, so we start to get better. SELF-ESTEEM Self-esteem was the hardest for me to get. Being homeless for most of your life makes it hard when people let you know you can’t do anything right, or that you’ve failed again. Your self-worth isn’t there, either. Self-esteem is hard because, if you are in pain for years, you lose your real self. We, as children who were abused ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN 12 DENVER VOICE September 2023 SHARING MY STORY THROUGH WRITING The only way you can help others is to go through hell, and then, you come out even stronger for it. Believe you me, it is or hurt, have lost our self-worth and self-esteem. We don’t even trust ourselves to hope for better. You become so lost. My self-confidence just keeps growing. My self-esteem is so high, nothing can hold me back. FINDING MYSELF/OVERCOMING THE PAST I have also had a chance to find myself. I wish I had found myself years ago. I wouldn’t have had so much pain to go through. One of the biggest things I learned is that most people don’t want to think about their past or all that they’ve overcome. They want to put the past behind them. I can understand why they would do that. It can be really hard to think of what we did to ourselves and others. We hurt people that we loved, but most of all, we hurt ourselves. hard to see anything but the pain you are in. Someone has to reach in to show you the way out! One of the best things about the VOICE is that I get to write for them. Looking back, it’s still hard to believe I’m a paid writer. I have chosen to share my story in case I can help someone to help themselves, even if I don’t know who I’ve helped, it doesn’t matter. As long as I can help. SETTING BOUNDARIES I know how to have real boundaries with how people treat me. I’ve learned to speak up if I don’t like something because if you don’t speak up for yourself, no one else will do it for you. I found that you have to want something better to change yourself. You have to tell yourself, “I can do anything I put my mind to.” You must not listen to anyone who tells you can’t do things Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do (unless it is your boss). Every time you think negatively, you bring negativity to you. Start thinking positively, and you bring good to you. This is one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned. LOVING MYSELF The biggest lesson I’ve learned was to really love myself. Once I learned to love me, my life started to change. I no longer wanted drugs or alcohol in my life. I love myself so much now, I control how or what in my life I will take in. No one else can ever take control of my life again. Control of your life is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. If you are being controlled by anyone else, you need to get help. If anyone is causing you pain, get them out of your life. At one point, I thought I would die from drugs and homelessness. I sometimes find it hard to believe I have owned a home now for over 13.5 years. I never thought I would have my own home. Boy, does it feel good to have a home! ■ EVENTS WHEN: Sep 2, 9, and 23, 9 a.m. COST: Free WHERE: Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W. Florida Ave. INFO: levittdenver.org SUNNYSIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL Enjoy a family-friendly day in the park with live music, community vendors, activities for the kids, delicious grub, and local brews. This event is free and open to all. WHEN: Sep 9, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Chaffee Park, W. 44th Ave. & Tejon St. INFO: sunnysidemusicfest.org COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES YOGA ON THE LAWN Enjoy a free vinyasa yoga class on the lawn. Open to all skill levels and ages. Bring your own yoga mat, towel, or feel free to practice in the grass. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW: STAND-UP COMEDY We all need more laughter in our lives. What the World Needs Now is a bi-weekly comedy showcase featuring some of the city’s best comedians, as well as its rising stars. This FREE event occurs every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. WHEN: Sep 14 and 28, 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: First Draft Kitchen & Taproom, 1309 26th St. INFO: firstdraftdenver.com ACROSS DOWN Across 1. Patronize, as a motel 7. Sudden reactions 13. Showy 14. Sets aside 16. Old Maid player, essentially 17. Means of supervision? 18. Set one’s sights 19. Referee’s mistake 21. Match part 22. Pole, e.g. 24. “___ flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood” (Billy Joel lyric) JAMMING ON THE JETTY Jamming on the Jetty is a free, family-friendly event that includes live music, local food and drink, and community vendors. Bring your own chairs or blankets and discover your new favorite band. All proceeds go towards cleaning up the lake. WHEN: Sep 16, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Sloan’s Lake, 4700 West Bryon Place INFO: jammingonthejetty.com 25. They may be drawn 26. Alien-seeking org. (anagram of TIES) 27. The two words that precede “Mama, just killed a man” in “Bohemian Rhapsody” 28. Citrus fruit 29. Paradise lost 30. Hit head-on 31. Beau 32. Niche-finding process 35. Intolerant sort 37. Scand. land 38. In that case 42. Nitpicky to a fault 43. Can 44. Kooky 45. Russian ruler: Var. 46. Snaps 47. Chimp in space (anagram of NOSE) 48. Stick one’s ___ in 49. Modern sing-along 52. Canadian area: Abbr. 53. Most flimsy and see-through 55. Unlike the White Rabbit 57. Poisonous salt 58. Temporary ride 59. Actors Charlie and Martin 60. Adjusts, as wheels 1. “I’m, like, over it” 2. Followed 3. Enliven 4. Shostakovich’s “Babi ___” Symphony 5. “Up and ___!” 6. Hatcher of “Lois & Clark” 7. Mexican shawl: Var. 8. Start of a refrain 9. ___ nitrate 10. “Norma ___” 11. “Here, have a bite!” 12. BBQ annoyance 14. Kick out of the Catholic church 15. Jet-setters’ jets, once 20. Sand bar 23. Oil’s partner in dressing 25. Put on a pedestal 27. Race pace 28. Head of England? 31. It may be barbed 33. Remote abbr. 34. Body of art? 35. Some charity events 36. Like the White Rabbit 39. Spreading (out) 40. Winter creations 41. Raw bar selections 43. New accomplishments 45. Robe for Caesar 46. Song of praise 49. Cattle, poetically 50. Kind of nut 51. Organic compound (anagram of LONE) 54. Last in a series 56. Chi preceder LET’S ROLL: 50+ BIKE CLUB Discover the joy of cruising through the city on two wheels in this bike club for folks age 50+. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or just rediscovering your bike after many years, this club is for you. Basic instruction on safety, navigation, and fixing flats is also provided. WHEN: Sep 23, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. COST: Free but registration is required and event is capped at 20 participants. WHERE: Meet-up location TBD INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming September 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Anonymous Individual Donor The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Bank of America Charitable Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Envestnet $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund Donald Weaver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity 14 DENVER VOICE September 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 303-447-1207, 3080 Broadway, Boulder. Open every day, 12:30-5pm, for anyone ages 12-24. Office: 303-447-1206. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 tgthr.org URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; weekly Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd). christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center September 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

fighting Pints poverty a fundraiser 2 C 0 2 3 P SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2023 • 6 TO 9 P.M. The Denver VOICE’s annual Pints Fighting Poverty Pub Crawl is returning this year! This event is a fun opportunity to show support for those in our community experiencing housing or financial instability, gain insight into the realities, and make an impact by helping us raise the funds to continue to provide economic, education, and empowerment opportunities for those we have the privilege of serving! The evening will include stops with exclusive drink specials at some of Denver’s premier brewery and spirit locations. 100% of proceeds raised go toward our mission 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. DENVERVOICE.ORG/ PINTSFIGHTINGPOVERTY u b r a w l

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Committed to SERVI GNNG SERVING NG During his time in prison and while living on the streets, Ray learned to care for others. Today, he lives in service to others, even as he hustles to fi nd a way off the streets. PAGE 6 AN OPEN LETTER TO MIKE JOHNSTON I HOPE YOU WILL INCLUDE US IN THE CONVERSATION. WE ARE MORE THAN BODIES OCCUPYING PUBLIC SPACES. PAGE 3 INSIDE DENVER’S TENANT POWER MOVEMENT ABIGAIL ESPINO ORGANIZED A TENANT UNION AT HER APARTMENT COMPLEX AFTER THE CALIFORNIA-BASED LANDLORD INCREASED HER RENT BY MORE THAN 55%. PAGE 8 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 5, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 AUGUST 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 8 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) Vendor Spotlight: MICHAEL BURKLEY FROM YOUR VENDOR: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

DIRECTOR’S NOTE WHEN WE EMBARKED ON THIS JOURNEY to introduce an art-focused initiative to our 27-year-old vending program, we envisioned something that would not only support vendors’ livelihoods but also foster a sense of community and appreciation for creative expression. The results have surpassed JAMES KAY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR our wildest expectations. The integration of art into the vending program has breathed new life into both our program and the Santa Fe Art District. The impact on our vendors has been remarkable. Through the art program extension, many, like Lando Allen and Rea Brown, have discovered a new sense of purpose and fulfillment. Many have found solace, healing, and empowerment through their artistic endeavors. The program has provided a platform for selfexpression, allowing vendors to share their unique perspectives and experiences with the world. Equally inspiring is the response from the community. The Santa Fe Art District, a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, locals, and tourists alike, now buzzes with even more electric energy, attracting visitors who appreciate the rich tapestry of creativity that our vendors have to offer. The synergy between the art initiative and the vending program has sparked a renewed sense of interest and engagement from the public, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits both our vendors and the broader community. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all the vendors who have embraced this addition wholeheartedly. Your artistic contributions have not only beautified our office space and area, they have also served as a catalyst for change and connection. Your resilience and willingness to step out of your comfort zones have inspired us all. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the neighborhood artists, volunteers, and community members who have supported this initiative since its inception. Your commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant arts community has been instrumental in the success of this extension. As we move forward, I am filled with hope and anticipation for what the future holds for all of us. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey and making these ideas possible! ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Newsline, Business Insider, Westword, and Medium.com DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen Yvens Alex Saintil WRITERS John Alexander Michael Burkley Rea Brown 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. Cassandria Carmouche Giles Clasen Robert Davis David Gordon Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Antonio Diaz Jennifer Seybold 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE August 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY AN OPEN LETTER TO MIKE JOHNSTON BY DAVID GORDON, DENVER VOICE VENDOR Dear Mr. Mayor: Congratulations on your election. You may be able to fill the shoes of the previous administration, but you have a tough job. You have inherited a stain left by your predecessor, that I hope you will be able to remove, because no matter how hard you scrub, it’s not going to come out easily. It’s an emotional stain. You said you wanted to get homeless people off the streets and get them the help they need. You have declared a state of emergency to address homelessness. What is your plan? Should we expect sweeps? When we are told to move our tents, where are we supposed to go? We are unhoused. That means we can’t just pick up our belongings and move to another street, only to have you come there and sweep us to somewhere else. When we asked your predecessor where we were supposed to go between sweeps, he didn’t have an answer. If we have a job, we can’t take our belongings with us, so who’s going to take care of our stuff if you sweep? These sweeps are emotional. They are demoralizing. They kill your spirit and murder your hope for a better life or situation. When you go through many of them, it creates a resentment for city government. It tears apart the relationships and families that you’ve developed within the unhoused community. It denies us the pursuit of happiness. TAKEN IN DENVER, 2016. CREDIT: CRAIG ELEVITCH If you don’t want to see us sleeping on the streets, can you tell us where to go or how to remain hidden so we remain safe and aren’t in the way? The last administration was not willing to talk to the people whose lives were affected by the former mayor’s decisions. I don’t recall your predecessor ever reaching out directly to any of the unhoused. Will you? How will you communicate with people like me? Will YOU talk to us? Will you include more than one unhoused person on your advisory board? Will you try to correct the negative perceptions people have of us, or will you double down, referring to us “those homeless people,” and treating us like outsiders who don’t belong? You have just started a very challenging job. Working to resolve homelessness is going to be a difficult task for you. I hope you will ask for help from unhoused people like me, because you can’t do it alone. I also hope you will include us in the conversation. We are more than bodies occupying public spaces. There are some really bright and talented people in the unhoused community. If given a chance, we will contribute to the betterment of society. Communicate with us. Talking to us and letting us talk to you is not going to end homelessness, but it will make it easier for us to understand each other and figure out where we go from here. Sincerely, David Gordon Denver VOICE Vendor HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. August 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

PAGE TITLE VENDOR SPOTLIGHT SUMMER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. VENDING WITH THE DENVER VOICE BY MICHAEL BURKLEY, VOICE VENDOR SINCE STARTING WITH THE DENVER VOICE IN 2010, I have been very fortunate to witness some of its growth. They’ve moved a couple of times and are now in the [Santa Fe] Art District, a very fitting location, to say the least. Over the years, many vendors and staff members have come and gone, as well. They will remain forever in my memory, and I’ll miss them dearly. Many of the old timers, like myself, have grown and changed in many ways. It’s an incredible thing to witness, and I’m glad that I have made these friends and business associates. Every year, the Denver VOICE celebrates NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick, sunscreen Bottled water its vendors. They also do workshops and also throw parties for us. If you go into the Denver VOICE office, there is always food and refreshments, not to mention some of the coolest clothes [donated by community members] you’ve ever seen. During my journey with the VOICE, I’ve met a wide range of people – from everyday people like myself – to, believe it or not, a multimillionaire. (RIP to Robert Hatch Sr.) Many times, people from all walks of life have come up to me and said something nice. It feels great to know that people truly do GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables MICHAEL BURKLEY (2014).CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL MICHAEL BURKLEY (2022). CREDIT: DENVER VOICE STAFF VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! look up to the Denver VOICE. To close out, I would like to extend my gratitude to our new executive editor, James Kay, who hails from Atlanta, Georgia. He has taken the time to get to know each one of us individually. A list of the projects that he’s getting us involved with would be too extensive to mention here. Thank you, Denver VOICE, for allowing me to be part of your team. ■ FORMER DENVER VOICE OFFICE (2015). CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CURRENT DENVER VOICE OFFICE (2023). CREDIT: YVENS ALEX SAINTIL @DenverVOICE 4 DENVER VOICE August 2023 ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR LARMARQUES SMITH Q A Who was your childhood hero and why? Now that you’re an adult, are they still your hero? JERRY ROSEN I would say that Superman was my hero, as he did quite astonishing things that no one else could do. Yes, he still is my hero as he was quite an individual. LARMARQUES SMITH My mom and I watched a lot of cartoons together. My two favorites were Jonny Quest and Scooby Doo. Both shows were mystery-based, and I thought it was so cool that the cast of Jonny Quest was a family, and they worked on solving mysteries together. The Scooby Doo cast was essentially the same – a tight-knit group of friends solving mysteries together. Fast-forward some 30-odd years… Jonny Quest still is one of my heroes. The show’s theme song takes me back to a simpler time, when music was music, and full orchestras were used during the opening credits. Dr. Quest, Race Bannon, Jonny, Hadji, and most of all, their dog, Bandit, still are my heroes, along with those “meddling kids” and that “damn dog,” Scooby Doo. JASON MARTIN My childhood heroes were definitely Batman and Robin. I remember watching [the TV show] religiously every week. Then came the dreaded weekends. No Batman until Monday after school (Ugh)!!! Yes, Bruce Wayne could still be my hero, mentor, and god. Bruce Wayne was definitely [part of] the Illuminati, Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, and a Free Mason. He is the stand-up, philanthropic type of guy we need to save Mother Earth. MICHAEL BURKLEY My childhood heroes were my school teachers. I grew up in Tulsa, and later, I went to high school in Houston. I can’t stress enough how important they were. One teacher who sticks out is my music teacher in elementary school. She is still my mentor today. CASSANDRIA CARMOUCHE There’s only one man on this entire planet that will forever be my hero. He has been there to encourage, inspire, and motivate me my entire life. Even though I have caused him great pain at times with my poor decisions, he has never put me down or belittled me. My hero stands 5’9”, however, in my eyes, his stature is taller than Goliath. He has the faith of Job and seeks God’s heart like David. This man isn’t wealthy, but rich in spirit and love. He’s not a perfect man, but he is humble about the wrongs that he’s done in his own life and taught me not to make those same mistakes. If you are wondering the name of this incredible man, it is Casanovia Faircloth, however, I call him Daddy. REA BROWN Many heroes come and go as we grow some are made of steel, others are made of snow some move very fast, others can fly or glow. whatever the substance, though, they seem to always let us know in the end, good will win even if it’s just a show. JOHN ALEXANDER King Fonzer was my childhood hero, and today, some 68 years later, he is still my hero. He was a big, big, Black man, and he was built like Paul Bunyan. He lived in the South. I am not just speaking about a big Black man who lived in the Deep South. I’m speaking of a Black man who lived in Mississippi, raising his family in the 1930s, ‘40 and 50’s – during a time when racism, prejudice, segregation, lynchings, and other atrocities against Black people were the worst in the world. As the Ku Klux Klan oversaw these activities at record-breaking levels, King Fonzer faced them – often by himself. King Fonzer had very little knowledge of what was legal or illegal, but he had a great understanding of right and wrong. If any other kid – white, Black, or other – bullied his children, he would come looking for the offender. Once he tracked them down, he would grab that person and take them to their home, where he would explain to the parents what their bullying child had done, and why it would be best not to do it again. News of King’s actions got around fast. When the police, Klan members, and people from all walks of life heard about him, they would say, “Oh, yes. That’s King Fonzer. Don’t pay him no never mind. He’s just one of those crazy n-----! Don’t waste your time with him.” But King Fonzer was not crazy. He was a man who believed that when it came to defending right from wrong, nothing would stop him. He believed in a full and honest day’s work. He would arrive at work on time, and at the end of the day, he often would say, “Well, King is tired. Now, King is going home.” Sometimes, he would stay longer. When that happened, if the boss man saw him, he would tell King that everyone else had already gone home, and King would answer, “Well, today, King is going to work a little longer.” That was King Fonzer. He stood up for what was right, protected his family, and worked hard. King Fonzer, my hero, was also my grandfather on my mother’s side. At 2023 DENVER VOICAugust 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN COMMITED TO SERVING BY GILES CLASEN PERSONAL GROWTH IS A COMPLICATED ENDEAVOR. It requires self-awareness and effort. Not everyone is willing to take those steps, but Ray isn’t one of those people. He isn’t afraid of what he may find as he digs deeper into his psyche because he has been on a quest for discovery for the past several years. Mostly, this self-examination process was forced upon him by circumstances, some of it was through personal pursuit – especially after realizing how his choices impacted those he cared about. Ray has lived on and off the streets throughout his life. Occasionally, he has found an escape from homelessness. These respites have involved good times, like his marriage. It has also involved his incarceration for drug and theft charges. “I know I’m a bum,” Ray said. “I look at myself, and I hate myself. I hate who I am and where I’m at. When I take a shower, I take it really quick. I get dressed fast. I can’t look in the mirror. I can’t do this anymore. I say to God, ‘Take me, I’m done.’ I don’t think about it; it just comes out.” After explaining this, Ray takes a beat and reminds himself that his belief in God means he can’t give in to his emotions, and he can’t give up. “There are times I want to give up,” Ray said, but when he gets to that point, he remembers that his faith in God gives him something to keep him going. Ray also believes he must persevere to help others. “That is why now I live for other people,” Ray said. Ray’s service to others comes in many forms. He has developed an incredible capacity for empathy and is considered a counselor for others living in tents and shelters. He will talk nonstop once you get him started. But his real gift is to listen and care for others. That gift has earned him the moniker “The Counselor,” among many on the street. “I’m a strong person. I want to keep going. I want to give to people – to my friends, and my family, to others who have less than me. I want to help them,” Ray said. “The people on the street, they love me because I help them,” Ray said. “I’m honest, and I’m genuine. People ask me ‘Where did you come from?’ I say, ‘I’m here for the work of the Lord.’” Ray’s commitment to faith and service is a big change from who he once was. He came from an abusive home. 6 DENVER VOICE August 2023 LOCAL FEATURE When Ray was a child, his father, who was never around, died in prison. Ray’s mother, whom he described as a gangster and drug dealer, abandoned him when he was five years old. He was left alone in a house for over a week. He tried to start a fire to cook something, but the fire raged out of control and burned down the house. Ray was saved by firefighters and was then placed in foster care. After years in a group home, Ray was placed back in the care of his mother. He wasn’t with her for more than a month before he ran away and was returned to foster care. “I didn’t know how to love [my mother]. She didn’t know how to love me, either,” Ray said. “I found a family in foster care.” Through it all, Ray remained steadfast. He learned to drive a semi-truck, got married, and did his best to piece together his own version of a happy life. Ray never learned to be “normal” though. That was partly because he never had the support to understand how to build stability. He was very much a slave to his desires and emotions. “I have never felt love in my life,” Ray said. “The love you get from your mom and dad, I never got that. Where do you learn love, if not from your mom and dad, when you’re young?” Ray doesn’t blame others for where he has ended up. He is pensive and thinks frequently about what he has missed out on, and how he can thrive despite that. “In prison, I didn’t get one letter. No one cared enough about me to send me even one letter,” Ray said. “That was a wake-up call. I decided if I was going to connect with others I had to learn to love myself. So, I started trying.” When Ray got out of prison, he tried to repair his relationship with his wife. “I was abusive. I never hit her, and I never yelled at her or called her names,” Ray said. “But I was selfish and I stayed out all night and slept with anyone I wanted. It was abusive behavior, in my mind.” His wife died of a fentanyl overdose before they really had a chance to mend their relationship. Ray was able to reconnect with his mother before she died of Cirrhosis. According to Ray, his mother’s doctor had told her she had less than a year to live, but she went on to live for many more years. Ray said it was during his time in prison and also while he was living on the streets that he learned to care for others. Today, Ray aims to live in service to others, even as he hustles to find a way off the streets. Recently, Ray talked a stranger into lending him a lawn mower, so he could mow lawns to make a few bucks. Once he got the machine, Ray went door to door and explained his situation to those who answered. He offered to mow people’s lawns for whatever amount of money they were comfortable paying. And if the person couldn’t pay, he cut their lawn for free. “Sometimes people need a little help,” said Ray. “If I can cut their lawn and help them when they have nothing to pay – well that is enough for me,” he added. Ray watches out for his friends and others experiencing homelessness. He listens to them and shares what insight or helpful opinions he has. Ray is tired of the ever presence of drugs. He said he knows people only turn to drugs as an escape from their misery, but he has seen too many individuals die from drugs. Ray carries Narcan with him, and he has used it on several occasions to revive individuals who overdosed. He wants to help heal people’s bodies and spirits, and he is willing to do whatever is necessary for them. So, he tries to always be prepared for anything the streets may throw at him. “I think the Lord is with me,” Ray said. “I’ve had people treat me like a dog. But God, he’s been with me. I am trying to surrender to him. That’s the path. The only thing I can do is to try and to serve others.” ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN August 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: DILLON WANNER, UNSPLASH INSIDE THE DENVER TENANT POWER MOVEMENT BY ROBERT DAVIS ABIGAIL ESPINO STARTED ORGANIZING A TENANT UNION at the Edge26 apartment complex in Edgewater after the landlord Trion Properties—a multifamily real estate investment firm headquartered in Hollywood, California—increased her rent by more than 55% from $900 to $1,400 per month. She said she had also heard from Hispanic families at the complex that white families were getting their maintenance issues first, sometimes a month or two ahead of Hispanic families that filed similar work tickets. Some Hispanic families even resorted to fixing their own dishwashers and showers because of it, Espino added. Some households, like Espino’s, lived without hot water for a week or more last winter, she said. Those testimonies hit home for Espino, who told Denver VOICE that part of the issue was that Trion didn’t have someone in the front office who spoke Spanish. “I couldn’t believe that some people were living like that and the apartment managers weren’t doing anything to fix it,” Espino said. So, the Edge26 tenants started organizing a union with the help of Edgewater Collective, a local nonprofit organization. They showed up to city council meetings and told the community about their living conditions. At first, Espino said a lot of people showed up, and that seemed to push Trion to hire an employee who spoke Spanish. But then attendance at the tenant meetings started to dwindle. Espino said she suspected people stopped coming because the union couldn’t address the community’s main concern—rent increases. “We are here to help, but there are some things that we just can’t address. And unfortunately, rent is one of them,” Espino said. Espino’s situation at Edge26 is similar to the experiences that many tenants in Denver face as the city’s multifamily market continues to soar. Commercial real estate firm Marcus and Millchap’s Q2 2023 Denver Multifamily Market Report found that the city’s 90% rent payment fulfillment rate and high average yields continue to draw out-of-state investors to the market. Out-of-state investors accounted for nearly half of all transactions over the last 12 months and that investment activity is one reason why the city’s average rent has increased by more than 28% since March 2020 up to nearly $2,000 per month, according to the report. Trion Properties is just one company that sees huge profit potential in the Denver metro area’s multifamily market. Since 2020, Trion has acquired properties such as The View at North Peak Apartments, a 288-unit community in Northglenn, for $38 million; the 402-unit Terra Village in Edgewater (which was later rebranded as Edge26) for $109 million, and a 198-unit complex in Aurora called Trailpoint on Highline for about $28 million. Trion also offers its more A WORKER BUILDING A MULTIFAMILY TOWNHOUSE SITS ON THE FRAMING IN ARVADA, COLORADO. CREDIT: REUTERS 8 DENVER VOICE August 2023 LOCAL STORY than 1,200 investors an average internal return rate of 18% over the 18-plus years that the company has been operating, according to its website. Denver VOICE reached out to Trion Properties for comment about the allegations made against the company but did not receive a reply before press time. Some tenants also say that the staggering rent increases some landlords are instituting are putting them at risk of losing their homes. Denver led the nation with a 71% gap between local median rents and household income between 2009 and 2021, according to a recent study by Witch, a subsidiary of the real estate platform Clever. In turn, tenants across the Denver metro area have formed unions to try and slow rent increases and provide better living conditions for renters. Although many of the issues these unions are trying to address exist at the individual building level, some union organizers say the organizations are driven by the same issues. Namely, that local lawmakers seem eager to engage tenants about the issues they face but don’t show the same enthusiasm when it comes time to passing legislation that could stop the issues from happening in the first place. “There seems to be a lack of awareness from the people in power, who are oftentimes not renters themselves,” Shannon Hoffman, a member of Denver’s Democratic Socialist party and former city council candidate, told Denver VOICE in an interview. “They’re not in close proximity to the people who are facing eviction or who are unable to pay rent, and that precludes them from being able to see the human side of the issue and making the link between a lack of affordable housing and the increasing rates of homelessness that we’re seeing.” ROOTS THAT RUN DEEP The roots of the frustrations some Denver renters feel predate the coronavirus pandemic, but the event seemingly served to exacerbate their concerns. Rents followed the demand for non-congregate shelter upwards at a startling pace. At the same time, low-wage workers like cooks, housekeepers, and cashiers were “disproportionately displaced” from the labor market at the onset of the pandemic, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. In turn, local governments across the metro area instituted eviction moratoriums to prevent as many people as possible from losing their homes because of pandemicinduced job losses or work-hour reductions. They also used federal funds to dramatically expand rental assistance programs, and some counties like Denver created eviction legal defense programs for renters. Over the past three years, lawmakers in the General Assembly have also passed a wide range of progressivestyle bills that prohibit source of income discrimination by landlords, housing discrimination based on someone’s hair type, and gave tenants more power to address issues in their rental contracts. So why do some renters say these efforts haven’t been enough? Hoffman said one reason is that the programs that lawmakers have created are not large enough to meet the scale of need. For example, Denver has its own eviction defense program but there were still more than 1,200 evictions filed in May, which is 35% higher than the number recorded in May 2019 before the pandemic began, Denverite reported. However, Denver only spends about $1.5 million annually on its eviction defense program, a total that has remained stagnant over the last two years, according to city budget documents. Hoffman added that lawmakers have also failed to pass legislation that directly addresses some of the tenant organizations’ concerns like requiring just cause in an eviction case. The bill sought to limit the instances where a CREDIT: XUEHUAI HE, UNSPLASH landlord could legally evict a tenant, but was ultimately laid over before the last legislative session ended. Eighteen anti-poverty organizations including the ACLU of Colorado, Colorado Poverty Law Project, and the Colorado Village Collaborative penned a letter asking newly elected Denver Mayor Mike Johnston to implement many of the requirements of the just cause eviction bill such as ending evictions for unpaid rent and increasing funding for eviction legal defense programs. These organizations also called on Johnston to increase eviction defense funding by up to $10 million annually. “There’s a real lack of trust, and we’re starting from lessthan-zero on many of these issues,” Melissa Mejía, the state and local policy director for the Community Economic Defense Project, a nonprofit that also signed the letter to Johnston, told Denver VOICE in an interview. Another issue that Hoffman said needs to be addressed is Colorado’s ban on rent control, which stems from the 2000 Colorado Supreme Court decision in Town of Telluride v. Lot Thirty-Four Venture, LLC, also known as the “Telluride decision.” Lawmakers introduced a bill during the 2023 legislative session that sought to repeal local rent control prohibitions, but the bill was subsequently laid over after a strong lobbying effort from groups like the Associated Builders and Contractors of the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Apartment Association, and the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, according to the Colorado Secretary of State’s office. TAKING MATTERS INTO THEIR OWN HANDS While the disconnect between renters and lawmakers has some tenants taking matters into their own hands by organizing, landlords in the courtroom. In early June, five tenants filed a class action lawsuit against Tschetter Sulzer, P.C., a law firm in Denver that specializes in eviction cases. Each plaintiff described situations where they were charged attorneys fees and costs by the law firm after it represented their landlords in eviction cases against the plaintiffs for nonpayment of rent. Carol Kennedy, an attorney with the Colorado Poverty Law Project who is representing the plaintiffs, told Denver Voice that Colorado law prohibits these fees from being assessed in cases that are settled out of court, as each of the class action plaintiffs did. The lawsuit also represents an urgent question for lawmakers about how they will enforce new laws aimed at protecting renters as debates about tenant rights spill over into the next legislative session. “This is just an effort to enforce the laws as they are currently written, and make the system work in the way that it is supposed to work,” Kennedy said. Kinsey Hasstedt, the senior state and local policy program director at Enterprise Community Fund, told Denver Voice that she sympathizes with the frustration of renters because the past few years have been “a decidedly mixed bag” in terms of policy. Hasstedt said renters can take some solace in the fact that tenants’ rights and affordable housing issues will remain the top issue for state lawmakers for the foreseeable future. There is also a growing coalition of lawmakers under the Gold Dome that seem committed to prioritizing those issues, she said. “It used to be that you couldn’t get anyone to talk about it also has pitted some tenants against their affordable housing but now no one can stop talking about it,” Hasstedt said. “People are running on it, and they’re telling their constituents about it. Affordable housing and renters’ rights issues aren’t going anywhere.” ■ August 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

NATIONAL STORY PROTESTERS GATHER OUTSIDE THE SUPREME COURT BUILDING ON THE DAY ROE V. WADE WAS OVERTURNED BY THE JUSTICES, JUNE 24, 2022. CREDIT: FLICKR USER TAEDC THIS SUPREME COURT SESSION TOOK THE COUNTRY ON A SHARP TURN IN THE WRONG DIRECTION BY ASHLEY ARCHIBALD THE SUPREME COURT has generated quite a bit of earned media in the past few years. There was the passing of Justice Samuel Alito, leading Sen. Mitch McConnell to hamstring the court with eight justices as he and the Republican-held Senate refused to approve President Barack Obama’s candidates on the thinnest of pretexts. He successfully held the seat open in the hopes that a Republican would assume office, and his gamble paid off. That domino knocked over the next: the appointment of three conservative justices during the Trump administration (and the resultant addition of terms like “boof,” “Devil’s triangle” and “squee” into the Congressional record). And, as of the end of the 2022-2023 term, that six-to-three conservative majority has done what conservative activists have worked for decades to accomplish: the end of federally protected abortions; the gutting of affirmative action; and the ability to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people. The fact that the court managed to kill a Biden-era program to help 43 million student loan borrowers? That was icing. Those activists paved the route to our current jurisprudential reality in painstaking fashion. They picked the plaintiffs — the Asian students at the heart of the affirmative action case were preceded by Abigail Fisher. They picked the path — there are jurisdictions in Texas with a single judge whose decisions can be appealed to the most conservative appellate court in the country and then straight to the Supreme Court. They’ve picked the justices — former President Trump was handed a list of conservative jurists from which to choose and a seat he shouldn’t have been able to fill. By 2022, this long, patient process bore fruit. The Dobbs decision came down on June 24, 2022. The end of this Supreme Court sitting gave us the affirmative action decision on June 29 followed by the decisions about student loans and Creative 303 — allowing business owners to deny services to LGBTQ+ people on the basis of their religion — both on June 30. It has been remarkable, horrific, and yet entirely unsurprising to see decades of work expanding rights for people (specifically those who can’t afford to buy them) undone in just more than one year. There is no reason to think this court will be done any time soon. After all, these unelected justices, who are bound to no system of ethics but their own, also have lifetime appointments. Several of the conservative justices are relatively young, in judge-adjusted terms. The three newest justices — Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh — are 51, 55, and 58, respectively. The potential persistence of the conservative majority leaves a lot on the table, from attempts to gut the administrative state to decisions that relied on the Fifth and 14th Amendment’s substantive due process rights, which Justice Clarence Thomas helpfully listed in his concurring opinion on the abortion case: access to contraception (Griswold), gay marriage (Obergefell) and even a prohibition against outlawing gay sex (Lawrence). He left one out, but fully accounting for anything — his thinking, ethical boundaries, and vacation costs — has apparently never been Thomas’ thing. I won’t speak to Real Change’s thoughts on these sorts of things in any kind of “royal we.” I can describe my own political project, such as it is. It’s pretty simple. I want everyone in this country to have what I have always had through luck but as a matter of right. I want people to have housing and health care. I want people to access the education they want without fear of crushing debt. Sure, this past year some of my rights have been curtailed and more are threatened, but I believe I’ll be okay. What I want — and what this paper stands for — is for everyone to be okay. The potential that stability and security would unlock from people far better, far more innovative, and far more creative than I am is hard to imagine. I truly believe we would all be better for it. It all feels a bit disempowering. Residents of the United States have little recourse when it comes to the supremacy of these judges and their judicial activism. We don’t, but our elected representatives do. Theories that I’ve heard bandied about by people more knowledgeable than myself involve constraining this court through ethical standards, something floated by Democratic members of Congress. Life terms were meant to make justices unassailable, unaffected by the political winds — that hasn’t exactly worked out, but term-limiting them might. Rotating justices out of a pool of available candidates is a possibility. It would be hard to know which justice to take out to a private club, say, or who needs a spot on your private jet. Congress could do any of these things, and the country deserves at least the discussion of our options. Because for the first time in a long time, Americans are losing rights faster than they’re gaining them, and traditionally we haven’t been a nation that accepts that without a fight. ■ Courtesy of Real Change / International Network of Street Papers 10 DENVER VOICE August 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY PAGE TITLE FINLAND IS SAYING GOODBYE TO HOMELESSNESS BY VEERA VEHKASALO ISO NUMERO: The aim of the Sanna Marin government 2019–2023 was to eradicate homelessness by 2027. Is this a realistic goal? JUHA KAAKINEN: Yes, it is. We know the ways to make it possible. Homelessness has decreased in Finland, mainly because of a strong political consensus that homelessness is an important human rights issue. Earlier this year you completed a report for the Ministry of the Environment on how to achieve this. So, how? Now that the number of homeless people has decreased, we can say that the majority of the remaining ones have more challenging problems. They need more intensive and longer-lasting support. We must ensure that this support is organized and that resources are allocated for it. Since 2008, the number of homeless people living alone has decreased by 54% and the number of long-term homeless by 68%. What is the explanation for this? Above all, the fact is that decreasing homelessness has been prioritized, and state, officials, municipalities, and organizations have been persistently working together. In concrete terms, it has of course meant that a significant number of apartments have been assigned to people and supported living units have been built. The explanation for the progress in the country as a whole is driven by the fact that the numbers of homeless people living alone and long-term homeless in Helsinki have decreased by as much as more than 70%. But more needs to be done in terms of prevention. The best option would be that a situation is not allowed to go so far that a person ends up homeless. How has homelessness changed in recent decades? Has the number of homeless in need of significant support increased? The picture of homelessness has changed rapidly. In 2008, the target group was still mainly people living in hostels or on the street who were abusing alcohol. Now the core group is made up of socially excluded people with multiple problems and drug addictions. But being homeless is not an attribute of a person; it is a situation they end up in. Currently, many different kinds of situations lead to it. And with the total number of homeless having decreased, there are more people who are in need of more intensive support. When the target is eradicating homelessness, it means that we must be able to get rid of all homelessness, regardless of the reasons behind homelessness or what kinds of problems a person might have. We must find solutions that work. But it is impossible to solve problems without housing, regardless of whether people’s issues are related to health or social care. The target was to halve homelessness by 2023 [the government has also made a commitment to completely eradicate homelessness by 2027]. Why has this been unsuccessful? Good question. Regardless of having found housing and support solutions for people, too many new homeless people have still been appearing. There must be more of a focus on earlier intervention and more intensive support during the process of housing being organized. More support is needed during the transition period. There are good frameworks to ensure a person gets the correct services they need. The importance of an exchangeable and portable principle has been confirmed by the fact that health and social care services in Finland are being widely reformed. So, does reducing homelessness remain a challenge, particularly as a result of the current economic situation and the need for reform? In general, the challenge is within health and social care services. The problem with drug and substance abuse, for example, is a big social issue and only partly affects homelessness. Drug and substance abuse should not be treated as one issue. The problem of homelessness is limited enough now, in terms of its scale, that it can be solved if the will is there. There was a very similar situation in 2008 when the project to reduce long-term homelessness was launched. The economy was crashing pretty badly then too; it wasn’t in any way opportune timing. But when it comes to eradicating homelessness, the timing is always economically opportune, as it pays for itself quickly. It’s clear that you are very optimistic that eradicating homelessness is possible. What feeds your hopefulness? When I see how many genuinely dedicated people there are in the field. And we have examples of this kind of positive progress being possible. I trust that the decisionmakers understand the issue, as they have done so far. My perspective on this starts in the 80s when the situation was quite different. During my career, I have seen xa huge change in the homelessness situation. Because of this, I trust that when the decision is made to eradicate homelessness, it will be possible. The current situation does not require an unreasonable number of resources. ■ Translated from Finnish via Translators Without Borders Courtesy of Iso Numero / International Network of Street Papers JUHA KAAKINEN. CREDIT: LAURA OJA DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org August 2023 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS SELF, WHEN YOU LET THE PAIN GO YOU’LL SEE A CHANGE! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR GUESS WHAT, SELF? Life is good because we got it together. Life for many years was hard because Self couldn’t love Self. Guess what, Self? Things changed once we learned to love Self. We learned to put Self first, because if we are happy, then we make others happy. When that happens, we make life great for Self and others. Guess what? You have to have the power to do good or bad. The choice is within you. If you are in pain and do not let it go, it keeps you in pain. Pain makes bad choices when Self is hurting, but guess what? Once you let go of the pain, things change. Holding on to bad things keeps bad things coming your JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN BACK ON THE STREETS: COPING WITH THOUGHT AND EMOTION BY JOHN ALEXANDER, VOICE VENDOR SOME FOLKS BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE LIKE ME – like the many people that are homeless and living on the streets today – that our actions, past and present, were crazy and are crazy still. But crazy as our craziness is, it has kept many, many of us from crossing over the borders of going insane. What is the meaning of “home”? Home is having a safe place to stay, a residence, a house, a place to have a family, a place to raise a family. But, people like myself often are confronted with the fact of being homeless – or people who were homeless, were able to get housing but can no longer afford their rent. What does that mean? It means not having any of those things I mentioned above about what a home is. It means just living and existing – and ending up back on the streets. ■ This “Back on the Streets” piece is in homage to Brian Augustine, who passed away in January. When he died, Augustine was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to living on the streets when he could no longer afford his rent. Through the end of this year, various VOICE vendors intend to contribute something in honor of Brian Augustine’s legacy. ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN way. Flip your way of thinking. Think of good coming, because when you start to think of good things, good will come to you. (Funny how that works.) Guess what? At some point, you have to choose. Hold on tight to pain and keep calling that to you. Or, say, “I can’t change the past, so I’m letting go of the pain. I choose to live and love Self and others.” By doing this, Self, you will end up in a life you never thought would happen. Let go, Self. With love. ■ RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA 12 DENVER VOICE August 2023 EVENTS WHEN: Aug 4, doors at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Five Points Plaza, 2736 Welton St. INFO: eventbrite.com COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES FIRST FRIDAY: JAZZ IN THE PLAZA Free jazz in the plaza, featuring Brothers of Brass. Event also features local food vendors, craft beer, and cocktails. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 WHEAT RIDGE CARNATION FESTIVAL This 54th annual community festival will feature live music, classic cars, a parade, circus, carnival rides, vendors, food, beer and wine, fireworks, and more. WHEN: Aug 11 – Aug 13 COST: Free entry WHERE: Anderson Park, 4355 Field St. INFO: thecarnationfestival.com FAMILY PROGRAM: ICE CHALK Get creative with ice chalk! The museum will provide a variety of ice chalk to color and draw on the Museum’s outdoor walkway. Feel free to drop in any time; all ages are welcome. WHEN: Aug 12, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. INFO: clyffordstillmuseum.org ACROSS DOWN 1. Branch of engineering: Abbr. 5. Get out of Dodge 10. Boar’s mate 13. Straight parent at a Pride parade, e.g. 14. Put to rest, as fears (or 13-Across with a letter added) 15. Certain type of healthcare grp. 16. Control (someone) 18. Not good-looking, in Spanish COLORADO NATIVE: A NATIVE AMERICAN COMEDY SHOWCASE MCA Denver and DeadRoom Comedy presents Colorado Native, a Native comedy show with local and national Indigenous comedians. Colorado Native is one of the only Native American comedy showcases in the country and is built on the simple premise that Natives are funny. WHEN: $5 for students, $20 for general admission. COST: Aug 24, 7 p.m. WHERE: Holiday Theater, 2644 W 32nd Ave. INFO: mcadenver.org 19. PBS funder 20. List enders 21. Announce 23. Doesn’t help at all 25. CPAs, e.g. 26. Like foamy seas 27. Disaster 28. Boat propellers 29. “___ Lot” (King novel) 30. Fleur-de-___ 31. Lemonlike fruits 33. The Face of ___ (Doctor Who character) 36. “I get to roll now!” 37. Director Gus Van ___ 38. Popular sport drink 41. “___, She Wrote” 43. Involves 44. Not even close to hip 45. Maya Angelou poem “___ Rise” 46. Piglet’s pal 47. Sue Grafton’s “___ for Alibi” 48. Feel awful 49. Take it easy...or a phonetic description of the circled letters? 52. Type of credit MDs may get for attending conferences or peerreviewing manuscripts 53. Like some mobile purchases 54. Missing a deadline 55. “For ___ a jolly...” 56. Insured’s contribution 57. Pooped 1. Seizes a golden opportunity 2. Roosevelt and Powell 3. The Cavs, on scoreboards 4. Heavily promote 5. Bass in a boy band? 6. Building additions 7. “Prince ___” (“Aladdin” song) 8. David Lee Roth’s band 9. Tests that start out easy and then may become a strain? 10. African trip 11. Spotted wildcat 12. Like a pine fragrance 17. Teeny 19. Actor Williamson (whose name anagrams to the first name of actor Firth) 22. Tach readings 24. Photo or black finish? 25. Eagle’s claw 27. Spy novelist John le ___ 29. Drywall supports 31. Alphabet used for Russian 32. Certain Romance language, to its speakers 33. 2003 Coen brothers Christmas movie 34. Like unrequited love 35. French beings (anagram of TREES) 36. Happy or square thing? 37. Madrid Mrs. 38. Passover, in the Haggadah 39. Not 54-Across 40. There are 2 in an English-language Scrabble set, each worth 4 points 41. Drop anchor 42. Support, as a ruling 44. In a lather? 46. Salt’s partner, in hip-hop 50. Cook in the microwave 51. Dubai’s country, for short JAPAN FEST 2023 WITH LYRICS BORN Japan Fest 2023 is a community-driven and multi-disciplinary festival of Japanese culture featuring headliner, Lyrics Born. The festival will also feature a market of artists and vendors, additional performances, and food trucks. WHEN: Aug 27, doors at 4 p.m., show at 5 p.m. COST: Free for general admission; $35 for VIP seating WHERE: Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W. Florida Ave. INFO: levittdenver.org August 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Anonymous Individual Donor The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Bank of America Charitable Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Envestnet $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund Donald Weaver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity 14 DENVER VOICE August 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 303-447-1207, 3080 Broadway, Boulder. Open every day, 12:30-5pm, for anyone ages 12-24. Office: 303-447-1206. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 tgthr.org URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; weekly Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd). christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center August 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

BEA P O Off B h BEA PH Spotlighting venues and performance groups to discover this summer. PAGE 5 SKYLARK LOUNGE SKYLARK LOUNGE ON SOUTH BROADWAY OFFERS SOME OF DENVER’S BEST LIVE MUSIC. PAGE 5 BURLESQUE AT THE CLOCKTOWER THE CLOCKTOWER CABARET’S LATEST INCARNATION IS TAKING OFF. PAGE 6 BREWABILITY’S CLEAN-ISH COMEDY BREWERY/PIZZERIA NOW SERVING MONTHLY FAMILYFRIENDLY COMEDY. PAGE 8 POSITIVE CHANGE THROUGH IMMERSIVE THEATER EXPLORING HOW ART, AUDIENCE, AND ENVIRONMENT RELATE. PAGE 9 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 10 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGES 12-13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JULY 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 7 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: BURLESQUE DANCER ANDE SAILER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE WHENEVER I WORK WITH our graphic designer, Hannah Bragg, and our team of contributors, I’m excited to see how our readers will receive the latest issue of the VOICE. This July issue has been especially fun to put together because so many of our vendors and contributors have participated. I asked the contributors to come ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR up with performance venues or performers that area residents and visitors should know about. Robert Davis wrote about the Skylark Lounge at 140 South Broadway and introduced us to singer Rachael McCuag, as well as Orin Bregman, who fronts the funk-rock band Coast to Ghost. Giles Clasen spent time at The Clocktower Cabaret with owners Selene and Jeff Arca along with burlesque dancer Ande Sailer and aerial artist Marguerite Endsley. When I heard that my friend Jennifer Sutherland was hosting the monthly “Clean-ish Comedy Showcase” at Brewability in Englewood, I had a hunch that any of the lineups would be great. Even though the set I saw in early June took place during one of the Nuggets’ playoff games, the four comics that night brought their A-game and were genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. For this issue, our newest contributor, Sam Blum, profiled Control Group Productions, its founder Patrick Mueller, and its associate director Caroline Sharkey. Grace Thorburn, who is on summer break after finishing her sophomore year at CU Boulder, introduces us to the Colorado Springs-based Pikes Peak food pantry. While the pantry is not a performance venue off the beaten path, it is an organization that continues to make a difference to individuals and families, and people should know how much the pantry benefits the community. Whether or not you are familiar with these venues or the talented individuals spotlighted in this issue, I hope you will be inspired to check them out. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS SAM BLUM is a writer, musician, and aspiring chef. He grew up in Baltimore and studied English and arts leadership at the University of Maryland. Blum wants to use his writing to show people new and exciting art, and to give its creators the recognition they deserve. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. 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. YVENS ALEX SAINTIL is a multidisciplinary artist born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti Saintil currently resides in Denver and is an outspoken advocate for justice. His work focuses on challenging the power dynamics and norms that have historically favored whiteAmerica and groups associated with whiteness. GRACE THORBURN is a journalism student at the University of Colorado Boulder. She hopes that her writing will make a difference in the community by covering social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, homelessness, and racial equity. DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Robert Davis Yvens Alex Saintil Gigi Galen WRITERS John Alexander Sam Blum 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. Michael Burkley Giles Clasen Robert Davis David Gordon Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith Grace Thorburn BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Donovan Cordova Antonio Diaz Raelene Johnson Jennifer Seybold 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE July 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR DAVID GORDON. Q A Do you do anything to celebrate July 4? JOHN ALEXANDER Do I do anything to celebrate July 4th? No. Do you want to know why? Over the years, I have been to and lived in many cities on the 4th of July. But Denver is the first and only city that I have been to, where so many of the residents – and it seems like all of them – are lighting fireworks. I mean all over the city! And they’re shooting REAL guns. No matter which corner of the house I retreat to, it sounds like I am on the front lines in the middle of a war zone. MICHAEL BURKLEY I normally don’t celebrate on the 4th of July. When I lived in the Curtis Park Housing Project (1989 – 1997), the sound of fireworks every year was more of an annoyance than a celebration. That was also a dark period in my life, and I had trouble overcoming the obstacles that were facing me at the time. Now that I’m a lot older and the world has changed, fireworks bring back memories connected to the good times, as opposed to the bad ones. DAVID GORDON I usually do a lot of relaxing during the day, and at night, I enjoy the fireworks. Sometimes, I get together with family, and after we watch fireworks, we have our own fireworks display for the kids. Everyone pitches in for the best fireworks. The last time we did this was before COVID-19. That’s how we did it. I loved it. RAELENE JOHNSON Usually, on the 4th of July, it’s a cookout with the neighbors. Then, we go to the back of the lake by where I live and hang around and light fireworks when it gets dark. From where I live, I can see fireworks across the sky, from all directions. JASON MARTIN I used to celebrate the 4th a lot, due to being in a military family. Our freedom was a thing to celebrate on this day. Nowadays, since 9/11, my outlook on our freedoms and liberties has changed because I believe we are told lies and are led to believe a financially-motivated political agenda. JERRY ROSEN I usually watch the fireworks, as they are really beautiful with so many fantastic colors. I also usually go to barbecues with my brother to get some hotdogs and hamburgers. I also vend some Denver VOICE papers. LARMARQUES SMITH The ideal 4th of July celebration always began with setting up the grill, prepping all the meats and delicious grillables for the barbecue, spending time by the pool, grilling with family and friends, having a juicy, ripe watermelon (with salt), enjoying my grandmother’s homemade ice cream, playing “war” with Roman candles, and smoking a blunt behind all the grownup’s backs (even though I’m also a grownup, LOL). Good times! RODNEY WOOLFOLK I wait ‘til the night comes to watch fireworks and eat hotdogs. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. July 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

SUMMER WISH LIST NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant Chapstick, sunscreen Bottled water GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s raincoats/jackets (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s raincoats/jackets (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE 4 DENVER VOICE July 2023 SPOTLIGHTING VENUES & PERFORMERS CREDIT: WIKICOMMONS/PAUL SABLEMAN $82,000 in 1998. Heron told Westword at the time that he didn’t think the bar would sell anytime soon because the coronavirus pandemic was just getting started. But the sales tag caught the eye of one well-connected local, Bob Ashby, who has been living in Baker for almost 20 years. Ashby contacted his long-time friend Nathaniel Raetliff (yes, the one who makes music with The Nightsweats), and the two formed a partnership of investors to take over the venue in 2021, Westword reported. “It was kind of a no-brainer,” Ashby told Westword. “We CREDIT: YVENS ALEX SAINTIL SKYLARK LOUNGE HOLDS ITS OWN AGAINST DENVER’S MORE FAMOUS VENUES BY ROBERT DAVIS MANY MUSICIANS DREAM OF PLAYING at Denver’s famous venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Mission Ballroom, and the historic Paramount Theater. But locals say several smaller venues are just as noteworthy, if not more so. One such place is the Skylark Lounge in the Baker neighborhood. The Skylark first opened in 1943 at 58 South Broadway as a bar for local workers. It stayed in the same building for almost 60 years before moving down the street to its current location at 140 S. Broadway in 2003, according to city property records. Locals know Skylark for its well-stocked horseshoe bar and the checkerboard floor that decorates the upstairs concert hall known as the Bobcat Club. The bar was put up for sale in May 2020 by its previous owner, Scott Heron, who had purchased the bar for about both love this neighborhood. It’s been really important to us, and we really want to add something back to it.” After some light renovations, the Skylark reopened in January 2022 and has provided both upstart musicians and touring acts a place to perform for a Denver audience. The venue hosts live music most nights of the week, and ticket prices often range between $5 and $15, according to Skylark’s website. Rachael McCuaig, a local musician who performs under the pseudonym Lonely Choir, told Denver VOICE in an interview that the Skylark offers an “encouraging environment” that makes it easy to book recurring gigs there. One way it promotes that kind of environment is by separating the live music from the bar crowd. When Skylark first opened, the live music stage was tucked into a cramped corner of the room, which made it uncomfortable to play and easy for the bar crowd to tune out the entertainers. Now, the live music stage is upstairs in the Bobcat Club, where the room is oriented around the stage, and concertgoers have their own bar. “It’s just one of those places you walk into and you see how it’s a peaceful and safe environment,” McCuaig said. McCuaig added that the attention local acts receive from Skylark’s sound technicians during gigs is another thing that separates it from other venues in Denver. McCuaig said she has played at venues where it felt like the staff was rushing her up on stage to sing into a half-working microphone for a half hour before getting rushed back out the door. She added that those kinds of situations don’t happen at Skylark. “The Skylark is definitely a place that has pushed me to continue to want to play around Denver and to pursue music as a career,” McCuaig said. Orin Bregman, the vocalist for local funk-rap group Coast to Ghost, told Denver VOICE that the Skylark helped his band network with other local acts, get exposure to new fan bases, and pay their rent on time. Bregman added that Skylark stands out among the other venues along Broadway because of how close it is to neighborhood restaurants like Voodoo Donuts and Illegal Pete’s. That makes it easy for local acts to get a good bite to eat after they perform, Bregman said, and for concertgoers to continue their night out after seeing a concert. “They know how to cultivate a vibe at Skylark,” Bregman said. “It’s a great spot to grab some drinks and see a show. And it has this institution-like identity here in Denver. It’s really a hidden gem.” ■ You can check out who will be performing at Skylark by visiting their website https://www.skylarklounge.com/events. CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS July 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

SPOTLIGHTING VENUES & PERFORMERS CLOCKTOWER CABARET’S BURLESQUE IS TAKING OFF BY GILES CLASEN ELVIS PRESLEY DIDN’T WRITE THE SONG “Hound Dog.” He made it famous, but the song was written and originally performed by Big Mama Thornton, a Black R&B singer. Selene Arca wants to make sure her audiences know this historic detail before Coco Bardot dances and undresses on The Clocktower Cabaret stage to a remix of Thornton’s version of the song. “We have the microphone, and we have the opportunity to bring to light things that society either doesn’t want to talk about or is not sure how to talk about. And that’s kind of what burlesque has always been,” Arca said. Arca owns The Clocktower Cabaret with her husband Jeff Arca, and the two have been including subtle and notso-subtle messages about acceptance, empowerment, and diversity since they took ownership of the venue. As the original MC and a writer for The Clocktower Cabaret, Jeff Arca helped set the tone for the theater, as it was finding its identity. Some cabaret performances are all fun and undressing. The Arcas realized burlesque could be something more. The performers at The Clocktower Cabaret are a diverse group of individuals and body styles, who bring different dance genres, messages, and motivations to the stage. To Ande Sailer, who performs at The Clocktower as Bender Flames, burlesque can help bring personal change for those who see the show and also may help push communities toward a wider acceptance of all people. “I think people have a very narrow idea of what change is,” Sailer said. “Often, people think change is this big, crazy, and sexy thing. But, I think change is something that happens in small incremental steps. Over time, it adds up, and you look back and see how you were different or how society was different years ago, and that can be mind-blowing.” Burlesque is an art form that blends satire, comedy, and provocation with extravagant costumes, dance, and strip tease. Sailer simply describes The Clocktower performances to his audiences as “a bunch of former theater kids taking their clothes off.” Sailer, who is gay, said he tries to be his authentic self on and off the stage. It wasn’t always safe for the LGBTQ+ community to be out, and there are environments where it still isn’t completely safe. But Sailer said he feels he can be himself because if there is pushback to his being queer, there is a whole community in Denver that supports him. “I’ve been given acceptable space as a white cisgendered gay man because of what others fought for,” Sailer said. “I think my role now is to push that space [to be] big as possible. Our job then is to help make room for those that haven’t been accepted yet.” These heavy ideas don’t weigh down the shows at The Clocktower. If anything, they enhance the fun. AERIAL ARTIST MAURGUERITE ENDSLEY SWINGS FROM CHAINS AT THE CLOCKTOWER CABARET. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 6 DENVER VOICE July 2023 SPOTLIGHTING VENUES & PERFORMERS LANA LUSH, ANDE SAILER, AND PRUDENCE DEVILLIERE PERFORM AT THE CLOCKTOWER CABARET. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN AERIALST MAURGUERITE ENDSLEY. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CLOCKTOWER PERFORMER COCO BARDOT PERFORMS TO THE SONG “HOUND DOG.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Sailer often tells audiences about Marsha P. Johnson, who many credit with throwing the first brick at the Stonewall Riots. Sailer follows this up by pointing out that a pink cloth, draped on the stage, looks like a clitoris. He jokes that he could be wrong about that, given that he has never actually seen one. The audience eats it up cheering, laughing, and screaming – pulled in by a whiz-bang of bright colors, humor, and movement. Sailer is ready to find off-color humor about anything, at a moment’s notice. He is known to walk into the crowd, which is usually predominantly women, who are at the show to celebrate bachelorette parties, birthdays, anniversaries, and divorces. During one show, Sailer asked an audience member celebrating a birthday how old she was. When the person told him she was 69, Sailer’s face lit up with glee before he went on to make an adult-themed joke. He then asked the next person celebrating their birthday, who was clearly in their 20s, if they, too, were turning the magical age of 69. The Clocktower’s message isn’t only about challenging perceptions and accepting others. It is also about selfacceptance. Some of the performers have bodies Hollywood might idealize. Others have bodies that are less “Hollywood.” But at The Clocktower Cabaret, all bodies are celebrated as sexy. The message of encouragement, acceptance, and creative expression is deeply personal to Marguerite Endsley. Endsley, who performs as an aerialist at The Clocktower, swings from chains, poles, and silks hanging from the ceiling. Endsley’s background is in tap and hip-hop dance, and she worked as a professional dancer, teacher, and choreographer in Los Angeles. She happened upon pole dancing after a night out with friends at a strip club. “I remember [being at the club] thinking, ‘That’s so cool, I want to do that someday,’” Endsley said. She couldn’t get pole dancing out of her head. It wasn’t that she was drawn to stripping, but instead, Endsley was fascinated by the form and strength of the performance. Endsley talked with her boyfriend about her desire to learn to pole dance. His response was discouraging and blunt. “You’re not strong enough to do that.” BURLESQUE DANCER ANDE SAILER DESCRIBES CLOCKTOWER PERFORMANCES AS “A BUNCH OF FORMER THEATER KIDS TAKING THEIR CLOTHES OFF.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SELENE ARCA, CO-OWNER AND MC OF THE CLOCKTOWER CABARET. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN “I just heard that I couldn’t do it. I believed that. It stuck with me. I still think about that today,” Endsley said. The call to learn something new only grew louder for Endsley. She and her boyfriend broke up, and Endsley took up a new art form. Shortly after she moved to Denver, Endsley went with a friend to The Clocktower. Inspired by the show, Endsley wanted to bring her aerialist skills to the stage, and she began performing at The Clocktower not long after. “As I evolved here, I started seeing not only just what was on stage but who [was] backstage, that there’s a community, there’s forgiveness and acceptance,” Endsley said. “It helps me feel strong and powerful because everyone’s really supportive.” Many of the acts at The Clocktower are developed in Endsley’s backyard dance studio. She helps other performers learn to be aerialists or develop new choreography. Endsley also teaches adult dance classes at her business, Denver Dance. Endsley sees the shared purpose of the performers reciprocate with the audience. “When you’re on stage, it’s the crowd that brings something really powerful,” Endsley said. “When they’re screaming and they’re having a good time, there’s something in me that gets lit up even more.” Endsley believes that when the audience sees her swinging from chains or another artist belly dancing, or any other performance, it arouses a “you can do it attitude” in the audience. After each show, The Clocktower Cabaret performers walk off stage to talk with the audience. Most nights, someone in the crowd shares how the performances embolden them. Some go one step further and ask how they, too, can learn to do burlesque or become an aerialist. “I think [audiences] love us because we’re celebrating each other and celebrating all of our differences and the things that we have the same, which is these weird, awkward bodies that don’t need to be hidden and don’t need to be something that people feel ashamed of,” Selene Arca said. ■ Visit Clocktower’s website to learn more about the venue or its upcoming shows, https://www.clocktowercabaret.com. July 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

SPOTLIGHTING VENUES & PERFORMERS BREWABILITY’S CLEAN-ISH COMEDY SHOWCASE: INCLUSIVE FUN FOR EVERYONE BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN BREWABILITY is an Englewood, Colorado-based brewery and pizzeria, where anyone, including individuals with disabilities, can eat and work. Since its inception in 2016, the establishment has received media coverage from the likes of Colorado Public Radio and Westword, as well as national and international media outlets like the BBC, Forbes, and LA Times. Tiffany Fixter, who launched Brewability and Pizzability, went from special education teacher to business owner. While her restaurant is known for its made-to-order pizza and craft beer, Brewability has become a popular spot because it is a safe and inclusive space . It’s also a welcoming venue for community gatherings and free events, including drag bingo, goat yoga, book signings, and trivia nights. Recently, Brewability added to its roster of events with its Clean-ish Comedy Showcase. The idea for the comedy show came from Denver-based comic Jennifer Sutherland, who has been a regular at Brewability since it opened its South Broadway location. “Brewability has been my local hangout for years,” said Sutherland. “I knew there were events, but I wasn’t sure if they offered an open mic night, and asked Tiffany. She told me a story about one open mic night they hosted, where someone told a hurtful joke. That’s when I suggested a comedy showcase, so I could steer the comics in the right direction.” Fixter liked Sutherland’s idea and agreed to try a couple of approaches before including the showcase as a recurring event. According to Sutherland, the first comedy showcase was more of a talent show for Brewability employees. She then began to reach out to local comics whose work she enjoyed. COMIC JENNIFER SUTHERLAND HOSTS CLEAN-ISH COMEDY SHOWCASE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN In February of this year, Sutherland hosted the first monthly Clean-ish Comedy Showcase, and so far, comedians have eagerly accepted invitations, or they have asked Sutherland if they could participate. Lisa Lane, who has done stand-up comedy for about seven years, is among those who contacted Sutherland directly. “I saw my comedy friend Jennifer promoting the show on social media, loved the idea, and reached out to her for a spot,” she said. Lane said she appreciated that the showcase focused on clean comedy and saw it as an opportunity to build an inclusive set that appeals to a variety of audiences. “I have been actively working this year on developing my clean material because when something is funny (without being dirty) to a broad spectrum of people, I know it’s a really good joke,” said Lane. Veteran comic Ralph Grate, who was a writer for comedian George Wallace and opened for both the O’Jays and The Isley Brothers, accepted Sutherland’s invitation to perform at Brewability because he has experienced a dearth of available opportunities for clean, clever comedians in Denver, especially if they’re Black. “[P]eople expect the same type of racial vulgar material that they see most Black comics doing on social media,” Grate said. The Clean-ish Comedy Showcase was the perfect chance for Grate to get paid to perform in a venue that offers comedy the entire family can enjoy. When Sutherland asked comedian Jake Cambron if he would participate in the showcase, he said yes, even though he wasn’t familiar with the venue. “I had no idea that Brewability was such an inclusive place and employed people all across the neurological spectrum,” said Cambron. “I’m autistic, so it instantly put me at ease and let me know what kind of material would be appropriate for the audience.” Given the opportunity to return to the showcase, Cambron said he would do so in a heartbeat. And to anyone who isn’t sure what to expect, Cambron said people should approach the show with an open and kind heart. “They should see the show because it’s a joy to see so many neurodiverse people able to come together and laugh in a positive environment. It’s definitely the kind of place where you leave your poor attitude at the door,” he said. According to Sutherland, Brewability employee Michael Newland, who participates in almost every showcase, is a crowd-pleaser. For his set, Newland draws from his repertoire of over 400 impressions, including Donald Duck, Oscar the Grouch, and Grover. Newland, who started doing impressions as a hobby, said he likes getting a chance to make people happy and smile. “Being on stage is a great, great thing,” said Newland. “It makes me feel proud to do something like this.” Sutherland said she is excited to see how well the Cleanish Comedy Showcase is taking off, but it is the reaction of her fellow comics who point to why Sutherland’s idea is a win for the comics and audience alike. “[Brewability offers] great food and drink, loving service, with brilliant adaptations that make the experience fun and accessible for EVERYone,” Lisa Lane said. “Sharing the stage with comics — and performing for an audience of various abilities is thrilling. When we laugh together, we seem far more alike than different.” ■ The Clean-ish Comedy Showcase takes place on the first Wednesday of the month at Brewability, 3445 S. Broadway. Tickets are free, but donations are appreciated. For more information on Brewability, Clean-ish Comedy Showcase, or other upcoming events, visit https://brew-ability.com BREWABILITY EMPLOYEE AND COMEDIC IMPRESSIONIST MICHAEL NEWLAND. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN COMEDIAN RALPH GRATE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 8 DENVER VOICE July 2023 SPOTLIGHTING VENUES & PERFORMERS POSITIVE CHANGE THROUGH IMMERSIVE THEATER BY SAM BLUM IN 2008, after spending years performing internationally, Patrick Mueller returned to Lakewood, Colorado, where he grew up. He believed he could use his background in contemporary dance and theater to position Denver as one of the country’s top performance art scenes. So, Mueller used all of his savings on a warehouse space in the Globeville neighborhood and created Control Group Productions. For several years, Control Group was based primarily in this performance space, where artists were given the opportunity to produce their original work. However, according to Mueller, the venue-based model was not sustainable, and he searched for other ways Control Group could have a greater impact. The limitations that came with working in such a small space meant that Mueller had to be creative in conceptualizing Control Group’s shows. Being able to rehearse and perform in the same space, Mueller explained, allowed them to plan not only how the performers would interact with the space, but also how the audience would. The advantage of controlling how the audience was integrated was Control Group’s first step toward immersive theater, and from there, their work grew into increasingly interactive performances that gave the audience roles in the productions. A few years after Control Group Productions was established, Caroline Sharkey, who had been studying and performing all over the country, decided to relocate to Denver. “Denver [seemed like] a place where you could be an artist and a human,” said Sharkey. “You could have a life alongside your artistic pursuits,” and that’s what drew her here. When she arrived, Sharkey looked into which groups were doing innovative work in the performing arts scene, and it didn’t take long before she came across Control Group. She reached out to Mueller, and they have been working together since. Sharkey now serves as the associate director of the company. Together, Sharkey and Mueller decided to fully transition Control Group away from operating in the warehouse venue, and instead, commit the company to immersive theater. They began doing what Mueller calls which he describes as taking people to specific locations for performances that would challenge the audience’s understanding of those spaces. Control Group continued its nomadic, interactive performances for several years before the COVID pandemic changed the performing arts landscape. “In general, [once the pandemic ended], we thought that audiences would be excited to return to the theater. That’s not the case. Everywhere, people are fatigued of going and sitting down,” said Sharkey. “Everyone [was] craving things to do. Our work is a thing to do rather than a thing to see.” So, Control COURTESY OF CONTROL GROUP PRODUCTIONS “nomadic, site-based work,” COURTESY OF CONTROL GROUP PRODUCTIONS Group leaned into their passion for immersive theater because they felt it was what the community needed. In 2020, only a few months into the pandemic, Mueller coined the term Expeditionary Performance, and it has been a guiding principle for Control Group’s work ever since. Expeditionary performances must be transportive; they must take the audience on a journey that engages their relationships with the environment. “Even though it’s expeditionary, it’s taking you into places that are familiar, places that you have context for,” said Sharkey. “It imbues your memory and your experience much deeper than a traditional performance would because you are getting and being in the context of the experience.” “The work isn’t just site-specific, but it’s site-invested,” Mueller added. According to him, the location provides the context for the art, and the art tells the location’s story, which strengthens the relationship between community and place. Additionally, Expeditionary Performance allows the audience to develop relationships with the art itself. It invites collaboration. It encourages each audience member to engage, and as Mueller explained, “They don’t have to reject values or identities, past history…to participate.” According to Sharkey, this mutual exchange of values and ideas informs all of the work Control Group creates. “And that’s the important thing,” Mueller said. The performance, the art, the experience, it all grows from not only the location of the performance but from the interaction between the artists and the audience. This perspective evolved into another guiding principle for Control Group’s work. They want to reframe people’s perception of art in general. Rather than the long-held view that art is solely a creation of the artist, a final, decisive product, Control Group wants people to see art as an experience meant to be shared. “Most art has incredible capacity to breed empathy. Immersive experiences, I believe, expand that capacity,” Mueller said. Performing within the framework of immersion and engagement allows Control Group to create art that can have a more profound impact on people. Sharkey explained that this impact can shift “how we value the world, the people around us, and the art.” Mueller explained that this framework also allows Control Group to challenge people’s views “in a non-prescriptive way.” Allowing and encouraging the audience to contribute fosters introspection and deeper thinking within the context of the experience. It also fosters dialogue, and this gives them the capacity to create positive change in the community. The pursuit of change has been deeply rooted in the company from the beginning. Control Group was founded, not only on the desire to create innovative art but also on the desire to help people, to help other artists. “We have always been both a company and an artist services programming arm,” Mueller explained. According to Mueller, when he founded the company, artists were not being paid fairly for their work, and “there weren’t pathways to emergence or growth.” Remedying that has always been a driving goal for Control Group. “It all comes from caretaking,” Sharkey said. “Giving artists space to make their own decisions, while still allowing them, and asking them, to create boundaries, has been really vital to the community that we are creating.” Control Group has always been equally devoted to service and creation. And that framework has extended into every aspect of the company. Part of their artist services programming is the Guest Artist Presenting Initiative, which helps emerging performers by providing them with the necessary resources to turn an idea into a production. Mueller said he makes a point to always take meetings with anyone who reaches out to him because Control Group strives to create opportunities for artists who have not found paths to emergence. Adjacent to its broad goal of helping artists, Control Group uses its artist services programming to challenge Denver’s larger perception of the landscape, to change how the community values not only the art, but the people creating it. “Paying fair wages, offering opportunities to other organizations, is both living out our values, but also modeling behavior that we hope spreads,” said Mueller. According to Mueller, there have not been any other theater companies in Denver that have found the same success that Control Group has. “That is absolutely not a brag, that’s a complaint,” Mueller explained. “[As part of my mission], I need to go back and blaze those trails so that other people don’t have to take 15 years to have a paycheck that they can live on.” Through the immersive experience, Control Group takes people on journeys through familiar places, shown in new ways, introspective journeys that challenge the way they see the world. They immerse their audiences in their art and invite them to engage with it. In doing so, they can pursue real, positive change in the community. But Control Group also embodies their model of change through immersion in the way they serve artists. They immerse the company itself into a new framework for the artistic community, one that centers on the livelihood of the artist. It gives artists more value as members of society, and it encourages people to value artists the same way — as people, not just creators. By immersing the company into this framework, Control Group has started to make it a reality. Through immersion, they are changing the artistic community for the better. ■ To learn more about Control Group and their upcoming works, visit controlgroupproductions.org. July 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

IN YOUR OWN WORDS DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR BACK ON THE STREETS: FEAR! BY JOHN ALEXANDER, VOICE VENDOR living on the streets when he could no longer afford his rent. Through the end of this year, various VOICE vendors intend to contribute something in honor of Brian Augustine’s legacy. I DON’T KNOW WHICH IS MORE FRIGHTENING, the known or the unknown. Before I became homeless and on the streets, I had heard about people having no home, sleeping in parks, on bus benches, etc. But today is 35 years later. Based on my experience, I now have some idea of which is more frightening, and I know one thing for sure. I do not want to ever return to being on the streets, homeless again. Down by the river, or over by the railroad tracks, in dark, empty vacant houses or condemned buildings are no places anyone dreams of sleeping each night. I have walked down many alleys and streets, passing by people, stepping over people – some of who were drunk and passed out. I have seen a few individuals lying still from the overdose of drugs. During my 35 years of living homeless, I have passed by many people lying motionless, and they were dead! That sounds awful and shocking to some people, but to me, I remember the thought that no matter what I have seen, or who’s injured or dead, I have to find someplace out here to rest and sleep for the night. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA DON’T WORRY about what he or she said to you to try to hurt you. Just let it go. Don’t worry about what people think about you, when you know they are not saying anything good about you. Let it go. Don’t worry about who likes you, or who doesn’t like you. Live your life for yourself, not for other’s approval Self, you need to love Self, so you will know what to let go of. Do not take on other people’s problems, when you know you don’t want them. When you know you can’t handle them, speak up and say, “I’m sorry. I can’t help you with your problem.” Don’t worry about what others think about you because you have your life to live. Other people’s opinions of you shouldn’t matter at all. You can’t make everyone happy, so don’t try. Self, you should only care about people who know you and are truly there for you. Let everyone else go. Self, stop worrying about everything because worrying won’t change anything. Deal with it, or let it go. Don’t sit and worry every day about things that really don’t matter, and then, your life, Self, will be a lot better. Worrying will kill your health and age you faster Try, every day, to worry less and not hold on to anything you can’t change. So, Self, let go and free yourself from worrying. ■ JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Editor’s note: This “Back on the Streets” piece is in homage to Brian Augustine, who passed away in January. When he died, Augustine was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to Being homeless is hell, pure hell! Many times, I have heard people say, “I have been to hell and back,” and that statement impressed me. I often wanted to meet people who said that, until I realized that going to hell, turning around, and going back was NOT the same as a person that has been to hell and come out on the other side. ■ ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN 10 DENVER VOICE July 2023 LOCAL FEATURE PAGE TITLE LITTLE FREE PANTRY STRIVES TO IMPROVE LIVES BY GRACE THORBURN PIKES PEAK LITTLE FREE PANTRY started as two thrift store drawers on the front lawn of Hailey Radvillas’ residence. Today, the pantry includes a minifridge, drawers, and refurnished shelves – all donated by community members. Radvillas was inspired to create the pantry in 2020, during a time of civil unrest and as the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing. By January 2021, Radvillas’ idea came to fruition, and today, it is open 24/7 365 days a year. “When you’re seeing unrest everywhere, you’re seeing people getting killed by cops, you’re seeing people hungry, seeing people on the streets,” said Radvillas. “Then, you vote and feel like [your vote] is not doing anything.” After seeing the success of the Denver Community Fridges and The Love Fridge based in Chicago, Radvillas believed a similar project could benefit her own community. Every month, the pantry – which is based solely on donations – provides fresh produce, homemade meals, or other needed food for hundreds of people, and thousands of people have benefitted from the pantry since it opened. “We’ve gotten to know neighbors…not only neighbors coming to give and take at the pantry, but our own neighbors,” said Radvillas. As word of the pantry spreads, more food becomes available, but according to Radvillas, increased awareness of the pantry means they will need to meet growing demand. “[The pantry] is empty a lot of the time… the need is way higher than expected, and it just keeps growing because of the cost of groceries, the cost of housing, the cost of everything,” Radvillas said. When Radvillas and her husband first moved from Chicago to Colorado Springs, the district where they relocated was the only blue district in the City of Colorado Springs. “We have neighbors who don’t like [the pantry], want it gone,” said Radvillas. “They claim it brings people into the neighborhood, even though they already were here.” Aside from a few individuals, who have expressed their opposition to the pantry, Radvillas said she’s been amazed by the support the pantry has received. “It’s not just our neighborhood; it’s people from all over the city who found us, and who give.” Despite the misconceptions of some, Radvillas said the majority of people who come to the pantry aren’t individuals experiencing homelessness. “Of all the stories I’ve heard, not a single one wanted to live on the streets,” Radvillas said. She continued by saying there are many misconceptions about homelessness. “When you’ve gotten so low, there’s no social safety net and you don’t have anyone to help you climb your way back up, which costs so much more money than people think,” said Radvillas. Hannah Bragg, a Colorado Springs resident and the graphic designer for the Denver VOICE, has been a champion for the pantry since its inception. COURTESY OF PIKES PEAK LITTLE FREE PANTRY July 2023 DENVER VOICE 11 “I think the folks who’ve created the pantry have worked hard to communicate and demonstrate to both their housed and unhoused neighbors that this is a safe and necessary form of mutual aid,” said Bragg. “I’ve lived in the Westside neighborhood since 2019 – and having this pantry start up was a game-changer for me.” Bragg said that the practice of giving what you can and taking what you need is freeing. “It gave me a way to help my community without being involved in a religious entity, which can exclude individuals who aren’t comfortable praying before receiving a hot meal or walking into a faithbased location to receive canned goods,” she said. Radvillas hopes the rest of the community echo Bragg’s sentiment about the pantry. “The little things seem so minor, but they’re huge hurdles when you have nothing to your name,” said Radvillas. Her goal for Pikes Peak Little Free Pantry is to continue to make sure her fellow community members’ needs are met. According to Radvillas, since she launched the pantry, multiple people have come to her and said, “Without you, I’d probably be dead.” In October of last year, the pantry was nearly permanently closed due to being in supposed violation of a bear can ordinance. This is because the pantry is located across from a restaurant where a code enforcement officer had been dining. After coming out of the restaurant, he noticed that a carton of raisins had spilled on the ground and that a squirrel was eating the raisins. According to Radvillas, she was unaware that there was a code stating that anyone who lives on the west side of Colorado Springs is supposed to have bear-proof cans. Despite this regulation, Radvillas explained that unless they live in the mountains, few people have bear-proof cans. This includes local parks in the area that are run by the city. After facing media pressure and shifting their focus to supplying toiletries for a weekend, Radvillas received a call from the head of code enforcement, letting her know that Pikes Peak Little Free Pantry was not in violation. “We have no plan to shut down at all unless we are forced to,” said Radvillas. “Even then, we will fight it tooth and nail.” Pikes Peak Little Free Pantry has not only changed Radvillas’ perception but also that of her friends and family. “When people know you’re telling a first-person account, it helps their mindset [about those in need],” she said. Radvillas wants others to realize that they can make a difference in the way she has because we don’t know what our neighbors are going through. According to Radvillas, the takeaway is to listen to people. “These are human beings,” Radvillas said. “These are our neighbors.” ■ Pikes Peak Little Free Pantry is located at 516 W. Pikes Peak Ave., just west of downtown Colorado Springs. They are listed on littlefreepantry.org. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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.

EVENTS Tourism Edition At last, summer is here! And it has a lot to offer. Check-out the below events for your summer-of-fun bucket list. Courtesy of Deborah Lastowka. LIVE MUSIC FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The Levitt Pavilion is quickly becoming the darling of Denver’s live music scene. Round up your friends and family, bring your blankets and chairs, and kick back for a night of eclectic music performances. WHEN: Various dates through September WHERE: Levitt Pavilion, 1380 W Florida Ave. CITY PARK JAZZ Jazz in the park is back! Enjoy live music, sunsets, food trucks, cute dogs, and community at this beloved annual event. WHEN: Sundays through August 6, 6 – 8 p.m. WHERE: City Park Pavilion, 2001 Steele St. PERFORMANCES IN THE PARK Free family-friendly outdoor concerts in Wheat Ridge. WHEN: Wednesdays through August 2, 6:30 – 8 p.m. WHERE: Anderson Park Pavilion, 4355 Field St. B-SIDE MUSIC FRIDAYS Experience intimate musical performances while enjoying craft beverages and sweeping views from one of Denver’s sweetest rooftops. Free show for teens on July 28! WHEN: Fridays in July & August; doors 6:30 / show 7 p.m. WHERE: MCA Denver, 1485 Delgany St. COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: mcadenver.org RIVERFRONT PARK SUMMER SESSIONS Check-out Denver’s newest music series, also featuring food & drink. Dogs welcome. WHEN: July 20 and August 17, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. WHERE: 19th Street Bridge, S. Platte River Dr. COST: Free INFO: riverfrontparkevents.com WHEN: July 6, 10, 24, August 21 / doors 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy. THE UNDERGROUND MUSIC SHOWCASE (UMS) Discover your new favorite band at this 3-day “mess” of a festival. One of Denver’s best weekends – hands down. WHEN: July 28 – July 30 WHERE: Various venues along Broadway/South Broadway COST: Tickets start at $65 INFO: undergroundmusicshowcase.com VISIT 5280COMEDY.COM FOR AN ONGOING LIST OF FREE/LOW-COST COMEDY SHOWCASES & OPEN MICS. 12 DENVER VOICE July 2023 COMEDY COST: Tickets start at $20 INFO: denverfilm.org COST: Free, donations accepted INFO: cityparkjazz.org COST: Free INFO: levittdenver.org SUNSET CINEMA Bring your own chairs, blankets, family, and friends to the Performing Arts Complex and enjoy the show. There will be pre-show performances presented by Dazzle, along with themed food trucks, drinks, and other cinema snacks available for purchase. WHEN: July 11, 18, 25 / doors 6:30 p.m. COST: Free INFO: denverfilm.org WHERE: Denver Performing Arts Complex - Galleria, 16th St. & Arapahoe St. COST: Free INFO: rootedinfun.com NORTHGLEN SUMMER MOVIE SERIES Free summer movie series, featuring Top Gun: Maverick and Hook. Bring a blanket and snacks or purchase food from on-site food trucks. WHEN: July 12, 19, at dusk WHERE: Festival Lawn, 1 E Mem Pkwy INFO: northglennarts.org/programs/summer-movie-series COST: Free AVANTI SUMMER MOVIE SERIES Watch a whole slew of movies this summer while enjoying food + drink specials on Avanti’s patio. WHEN: Thursdays through August 14, 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Avanti Food & Beverage, 3200 Pecos St. FILM ON THE ROCKS Film on the Rocks is back, baby! Come watch contemporary classics in the coolest outdoor venue around. COST: Free INFO: avantifandb.com MUSIC & MOVIE NIGHT Free Monday night music/movies series. Selections include Top Gun: Maverick, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and DC League of Super-Pets. WHEN: July 10, 17, 24 / gates 6 p.m. WHERE: Infinity Park, 4599 E Tennessee Ave. COST: Free INFO: infinityparkatglendale.com/events FILM ART FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK The Santa Fe Arts District comes alive every Friday night, offering a great opportunity to contemplate art and to people watch. WHEN: First Fridays, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: The bulk of the galleries is along Santa Fe Drive, between 5th and 11th Aves. INFO: denversartdistrict.org FARMERS MARKETS HEAD TO A LOCAL FARMERS MARKET FOR FRESH PRODUCE AND UNIQUE WARES. GOLDEN FARMERS MARKET, 1019 10th St. Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 7. CITY PARK FARMERS MARKET, City Park Esplanade Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 28. CHERRY CREEK FARMERS MARKET, 3000 E 1st Ave. Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through August 16 and Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., through November 4. UNIVERSITY HILLS FARMERS MARKET, 5505 W. 20th Ave. Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 28. LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET, Mile Hi Church, 9077 W. Alameda Ave. Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., through September 30. ARVADA FARMERS MARKET, 5700 Olde Wadsworth Blvd. Sundays, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., through October 1. HIGHLANDS FARMERS MARKET, Lowell Blvd. & W. 32nd Ave. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 15. SOUTH PEARL STREET FARMERS MARKET, South Pearl St. between E. Iowa Ave. & E. Arkansas Ave. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through November 12. MISCELLANEOUS MIXED TASTE Mixed Taste is a long-running, beloved program where even the most mismatched subjects fi nd unexpected common ground in an interactive lecture series. WHEN: Wednesdays July 12 – August 16 / doors 6 p.m. WHERE: Holiday Theater, 2644 W 32nd Ave. DPL EVENTS The Denver Public Library is your friend, offering a variety of free/low-cost workshops on writing, meditation, current events, history, film, English and Spanish language classes, U.S. citizenship, and more! WHEN: Various dates/times WHERE: Denver Public Library branches DPR ACTIVITIES Denver Parks & Recreation offers a number of free/low-cost activities for the entire family, including tennis lessons, standup paddleboarding, kayaking, group hikes, youth sports, dancing, arts and crafts, and more! Be sure to also check out their summer pool schedule as well. WHEN: Various dates/times COST: Free or low-cost WHERE: Various locations INFO: denvergov.org/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation July 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 COST: Most events are free INFO: denverlibrary.org/events COST: $5 students / $20 GA INFO: mcadenver.org Aioli Au jus Caramel Cheese Chutney Compote Cream Dip Gravy Honey Hummus Icing Jam Jelly Karo Lemon Mayo Miso Mustard Nutella Paste Pepper Pesto Powder Preserves Relish Salsa Salt Sambal Soy sauce Spread Syrup Tabasco Tahini Tartar Toppings Vegemite PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Bank of America Charitable Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Warren and Betty Kuehner Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund Donald Weaver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE July 2023 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 303-447-1207, 3080 Broadway, Boulder. Open every day, 12:30-5pm, for anyone ages 12-24. Office: 303-447-1206. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 tgthr.org URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; weekly Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd). christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center July 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE LANDO ALLEN 2022 Denver VOICE Vendor of the Year KING CHARLES AND THE HOUSING CRISIS POUNDBURY’S UNIQUE ROYAL ORIGINS MAKE IT A PLACE OF INTRIGUE AND CURIOSITY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE LONGRUNNING HOUSING CRISIS. PAGE 6 CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE OF BLACK MOTHERS CDC DATA SHOWS THAT BLACK WOMEN IN U.S. ARE 3 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE OF PREGNANCY-RELATED CAUSES. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JUNE 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 6 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: ARTWORK BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR GIGI GALEN

DIRECTOR’S NOTE AS I REFLECT ON MY FIRST FEW MONTHS here at Denver VOICE, I can’t help but feel fortunate that the vendors, board members, staff, and all our supporters, who put so much energy into this organization, have embraced me and shown nothing but support and love for the work we do. While the program has impacted JAMES KAY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR so many lives for much longer than I’ve been affiliated with the VOICE, it was not long after I started that our team began highlighting additional vendor needs we could meet. Through feedback from the vendors, we realized that our safe space on Santa Fe was a lot more to people than a place to pick up papers. Based on conversations with several Denver VOICE vendors, who are also visual artists, Connie Gaitan, our program coordinator, and I began purchasing supplies and then set aside space in our office for vendors to work on their art. Our location in the Santa Fe Art District gave us an opportunity to give these vendor artists a way to showcase their art and receive additional income for their work. Our very own Lando Allen’s efforts helped inspire what we hope will become a successful art program. Earlier this year, Lando got his sales license, and with the assistance of our volunteer Daniel Chavez, who is a web designer, Lando now has a website for his art. In the two months since Lando’s website was launched, several art collectors have purchased his work, and others have commissioned additional pieces from him. The result of our effort and the vendors’ engagement with the art program has already proven to be powerful, and we believe this opportunity is worth pursuing even further - which is why we are asking the community to help. On the back cover of this issue, you will find information about our Summer of Color Campaign, and we are asking for your help with creating a more extensive program for our Denver VOICE vendors. Your donations will go a long way in helping us establish this program. If you are interested in learning more or providing a donation match, please email me at james@denvervoice.org. Thank you all for your amazing support of our program and our mission! View Lando Allen’s artwork at lando-paints.square.site/. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Gigi Galen WRITERS John Alexander Lando Allen Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith 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. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Donovan Cordova Antonio Diaz Raelene Johnson Jennifer Seybold Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 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 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. OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE June 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S ASK A VENDOR CAME FROM DENVER VOICE VENDOR JOHN ALEXANDER. Q A In what ways do you see the Denver VOICE’s value in the community, neighborhoods, and city? How do you see its value in your own life? JOHN ALEXANDER Since becoming a VOICE vendor, I have seen many ways the Denver VOICE has changed lives. As far as seeing the values of the Denver VOICE in my own life, it is similar to how I’ve seen the program help other vendors. I have greater goals because of those changes. For a successful, blessed vendor of the VOICE, the changes that people experience are automatic because we are enjoying a new and better way of life. LANDO ALLEN The VOICE gives me independence in a couple of ways: It keeps me away from the food line, and it keeps me away from people who want to do me harm. The income I make from vending also allows me to be a consumer and buy things like food, parts for my RV, and art supplies. JASON MARTIN I see the Denver VOICE doing a lot of good in the community by giving people a voice. It employs people daily and gives people a chance. Now, I am not only seen, but I also have a VOICE, so I am heard. JERRY ROSEN The Denver VOICE helps people in many ways: It gives them an income when they need to make money. It helps individuals by giving them an opportunity to do something worthwhile in the community. It has also allowed me to make an income and helped me gain self-confidence by knowing I’m doing something useful. LARMARQUES SMITH I started vending the Denver VOICE in June 2018. I was still relatively new to Denver and most definitely new to the homeless experience. I have seen the value of the paper in many ways, from other vendors who have used the paper as their primary source of income, to customers who actively read and support our organization. I have seen customers who did not know the VOICE existed become serious supporters. The Denver VOICE’s impact on my life cannot be measured. You cannot put a price on safety… well, not in a dollars and cents-type of way. The VOICE office is my safe space. When I need a place to go, or someone just to hear my side of any story, the VOICE is that place for me, which is priceless. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. June 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

PAGE TITLE VENDOR SPOTLIGHT SUMMER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick, sunscreen Bottled water LANDO ALLEN (LEFT) RECEIVES HIS VENDOR OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM SPECIAL GUEST AT DENVER VOICE’S RISE AND THRIVE, BREE DAVIES (RIGHT). CREDIT: GILES CLASEN VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: LANDO ALLEN GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN, MANAGING EDITOR LANDO ALLEN DOESN’T LIKE A LOT OF ATTENTION. But when it came time for the Denver VOICE vendors to nominate the vendor of the year for 2022, it was Allen who received the most votes from his peers, so he didn’t have a choice. And if you don’t know him, keep reading to understand what he’s been up to over the past year — then you’ll get why he was nominated. Since 2009, Allen has vended the VOICE and has been among the top vendors every month since. A primary reason for Allen’s success is the way he connects with people. He may be getting over a cold or having a rough day, but you wouldn’t know it. That’s because he makes a point of focusing on the positive attributes of the people or situations he encounters throughout the day. One way he manages whatever challenges he may be facing is to paint, and it turns out, his paintings are pretty darn good! About a year ago, Allen brought a piece he had recently completed to show his fellow vendors and the Denver VOICE staff. It wasn’t his first painting, but it was the first time many of us were aware of Allen’s artistry. Because the reception of his artwork was so positive, Allen was encouraged to bring in more of his artwork. It wasn’t long after that Allen wondered if he could make additional income from selling his art. He then applied for and received his sales license. He also continued to bring in more paintings, which we hung on the walls of the VOICE office. Our location in the Santa Fe Art District presented an ideal opportunity for people participating in the First Friday Art Walks to recognize Allen’s talent. With the support of VOICE Program Coordinator Connie Gaitan and volunteer web designer Daniel Chavez, Allen now has a website where people can view his art, purchase his paintings, or explore the possibility of commissioning his work. While the positive feedback he has received has spurred him to create more, it is the opportunity to vend the paper that Allen credits with enabling him to have his own place and take care of his basic needs. He also says the organization has helped him maintain his dignity. For the past few years, Allen has spoken of getting a houseboat and living somewhere with water and a warmer climate. When that happens, he will leave a void at the Denver VOICE, but he has taught us all the valuable lesson that, despite life’s greatest challenges, if we get out of our own way, keep moving forward, and continue to learn and create, we can live more fulfilling lives. Given Allen’s attitude, determination, and past success, @DenverVOICE LANDO ALLEN SHOWS OFF A RECENT PAINTING. CREDIT: ELISABETH MONAGHAN there is no doubt he will continue to stand out as a skilled artist and exemplary human being. And even though he may not like drawing attention to himself, it would not be a surprise if his future included more than just a few additional minutes in the spotlight. ■ 4 DENVER VOICE June 2023 PROGRAM UPDATE HOW TO RECOGNIZE A VENDOR BY CONNIE GAITAN, PROGRAM COORDINATOR THE DENVER VOICE HAS BEEN MADE AWARE OF FRAUDULENT INDIVIDUALS POSING AS DENVER VOICE VENDORS. To ensure you are getting your paper from an authorized vendor, here are some things to look for: • Denver VOICE vendors must wear their badges at all times. The badge must be visible with a recent photo and the current year highlighted on the front of the badge. • (Note: If the vendor has a temporary badge, their photo will not be on the badge, but their number and the current year will be visible. Once a new vendor returns a second time and purchases more papers, they will receive a badge with their photo on it.) • Denver VOICE vendors are trained with specific language and operate under specific rules for earning. They will never ask you for donations that come back to the Denver VOICE. (Your donation goes to that individual directly and is not tax-deductible as it is a gift to that person.) • If you do not have cash, you can pay directly through the @DenverVoice Venmo account. Be sure to include the vendor’s name or badge number in the notes, so they receive the payment. • There are specific rules about how vendors can go about their work. They will never have tables or booths set up with signage or donation boxes for payments. They should never sell other products alongside the paper. • While vendors are permitted to give away old issues free of charge, they should only be vending the current issue of the paper. Before they can participate in our program, Denver VOICE vendors receive training to understand our program, resources, important programmatic guidelines, and city laws and regulations. The Denver VOICE and its vendors take pride in the work we do, and we appreciate community supporters like you! If you have any questions, concerns, or positive comments about a specific vendor, email our program coordinator at program@denvervoice.org or call us at (720) 320-2155. ■ June 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

INTERNATIONAL STORY QUEEN MOTHER SQUARE. CREDIT: DUCHY OF CORNWALL POUNDBURY: HOW DOES THE KING’S VISION STACK UP IN A HOUSING CRISIS? BY LIAM GERAGHTY POUNDBURY IS KING CHARLES’S PET PROJECT. Located on Duchy of Cornwall land just west of Dorchester in Dorset, the monarch has spent more than three decades carving out his vision of what Britain should look like across its 400 acres. A model village designed to show how building development can enhance the English countryside, to “break the mold of conventional housing development”, as the King put it, he has been overseeing Poundbury’s development since 1993. Originally laid out by architect Léon Krier, the project is due to be completed in 2027, with 2,700 homes built, meaning one for every job in the area. To some detractors, Poundbury is a sort of “feudal Disneyland”, a prince’s plaything existing outside the realms of reality. But Poundbury’s unique royal origins make it a place of intrigue and curiosity in the context of the longrunning housing crisis. Françoise Ha is one of around 4,500 people living there and is chair of the Poundbury Residents Association. “It’s interesting seeing which countries are interested,” says Ha. “Certain countries like France are very interested, Canada, the Dutch, and America, as well. “I don’t think people are particularly royalist or republican here. I think we’re here because it’s a beautiful place to live and the vision that he’s made is quite different from other places. “Poundbury is an interesting idea. It’s been like Marmite 6 DENVER VOICE June 2023 before because it was green fields, but I think it’s good at what it’s trying to do.” What Poundbury is trying to do is be more than the sole preserve of the rich. Sure, take a cursory browse on Rightmove and you’ll see the first-floor apartment overlooking Queen Mother Square on the market for a cool £1.25 million. But a couple of pages later there are sub-£200k flats, with some available for shared ownership. One of the principles behind Poundbury is a mix of affordable homes alongside less affordable properties, and 35% of the homes being built are affordable housing for rent, shared ownership, or discounted sales. The Duchy also has a Discount to Open Market scheme running in Poundbury, which allows first-time buyers to purchase properties at a 25-30% discount which is then passed on to the next owner. There is a mix in the styles of houses on offer too. Take a walk around Poundbury and King Charles’s beloved classical architectural style is on show alongside country cottages built to echo the local area, mixed in with Italian villa-inspired homes. The mix attracts a similarly varied populace of people. This is key to Poundbury’s success and is one of the areas where it has been able to innovate, says Ben Murphy, the Duchy of Cornwall’s estate’s director. “To look back, it’s quite shocking to think now that Poundbury was the first place that integrated affordable housing with market housing. That has influenced national planning policy,” says Murphy. “Developers would think, ‘Oh no, it will detract from the value of private homes’; perhaps there was a stigma and I think it’s been proven to be untrue and incorrect. “All the places that really work well, that have a strong social cohesion, are diverse. It brings vibrancy and vitality to a place, and I think it benefits the community at large by having a well-balanced mix of tenures and people from all walks of life. I’m very proud that we delivered 35% affordable housing but when they’re not just integrated but indistinguishable, I don’t think you can really underestimate how important that is.” Ha has lived in Poundbury for five years after making the move from Exeter. She has yet to bump into King Charles while walking around town but says “he likes to know what’s going on”. But she agrees that variety is the spice of life in Poundbury. “It’s a very cosmopolitan place, compared to other places,” says Ha. “You’ve got people from Northampton, from Scotland, you’ve got people from all around that are coming here to retire or because they just think it’s a nice place to be for families as well. I think there is a difference between perception and reality here. It’s supposed to be a place where people of all generations can live together.” King Charles has never been shy about chiming in with his thoughts on architecture. He famously raised eyebrows when he described an expansion to the National Gallery as a “monstrous carbuncle” while addressing the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in 1984. Four years later he wrote and presented his first documentary, A Vision of Britain, showcasing his housing ideas for the future to millions watching on the BBC. In a book of the same name that was published the following year, the future king says he was moved to share his thoughts after seeing the “wanton destruction which has taken place in the name of progress”. “The sheer, unadulterated ugliness and mediocrity of public and commercial buildings, and housing estates” INTERNATIONAL STORY AN AERIAL VIEW OF POUNDBURY. CREDIT: DUCHY OF CORNWALL POUNDBURY, DORCHESTER, CREDIT: CG FY & SON. raised his ire. As did the “dreariness and heartlessness” of urban planning. King Charles, it is fair to say, does not care much for modernist design. Neither has he been shy to intervene in planning decisions. In 2009 the then-Prince of Wales was accused by Ruth Reed, RIBA president at the time, of “an abuse of his position” for attempts to block planning decisions, including plans to develop the former Chelsea Barracks in West London. But it’s the foundations laid out in A Vision of Britain that underpin Poundbury to this day. While much of its design ethos looks to the past, Poundbury has also been a demonstration of having amenities within a 15-minute walking distance. The idea of a ‘15-minute city’ has proven controversial in recent months with conspiracy theorists painting the idea as a war on cars or a method to control people’s movements. That’s nonsense, of course. But the issue was on the mind of notoriously green-focused King Charles 30 years ago. “It’s not about denying the existence of cars or containing people within an area, it’s more about giving people choice,” says Murphy. When you live in Poundbury we’re just saying, chances are you don’t need one because we’ve everything you need – offices, retail, restaurants, cafes, a pub, a doctor’s surgery – and it’s all accessible.” However, there is something of a catch for residents – the Duchy’s hand is never far away. If you want to live in Poundbury you are subject to certain rules designed to keep it beautiful. Want to take your rubbish out to be collected? It has to go out the back of your home, not the front. Want to paint your front door a different color? You’d best ask the Duchy for permission and, even then, you’ll only have a choice of a few approved colors. Want to swap the wooden window frames for PVC? No chance. “You have to be careful that it’s not going to be an issue for you and if you think it will be, then maybe it’s not going to be the right place for you,” says Ha. “There are people who come here because they want that uniformity. They want ARCHITECT LEON KRIER’S ORIGINAL POUNDBURY PLANS (1988) certain rules in place, and they’ve been in places where they didn’t have them and they were frustrated.” But what can other areas of the UK learn from Poundbury? Murphy says that building quality homes even if it means a wait for profit is fundamental to an area’s success. Perhaps that’s easier for an operation with the resources of the Duchy of Cornwall than it is for a major housebuilder with shareholders to answer to. But, then again, perhaps not. “It’s totally scalable. I mean, it’s really just taking the lessons of the past about what we know and love about our historic towns and cities, what makes a successful place,” says Murphy. “It’s not really been a model followed by the volume house builders in the UK because they’re just not set up as businesses to deliver a mix of uses and they’re looking at a much shorter return on investments on an annual or even quarterly basis. “Whether it be a local authority or a developer, if they are more patient about their capital return, they will reap greater dividends. We are a land and property business, it’s not a charitable endeavor, but I think His Majesty absolutely understood that if you build quality and deliver local needs it will create value and commercial success. You’ve just got to have the stomach for it. You’ve got to be a bit more patient about those returns.” The Duchy of Cornwall is trying to demonstrate Poundbury’s scalability firsthand with another planned community in Nansledan on the outskirts of Newquay in Cornwall. Dubbed “Poundbury’s big brother” by Murphy, 630 homes have currently been built in the development over the past five years and it is projected to be completed in around 2045, offering 4,000 homes and 4,000 jobs. Murphy says it is an attempt to deal with Cornwall’s welldocumented shortage of affordable housing. “We’re very much bolstering the town of Newquay and making sure that we remain part of the solution when it comes to the housing crisis,” he adds. For Ha, it’s clear what other places could learn: “For me, it’s building beautifully. I think there are too many places that aren’t built with beauty in mind. They’re built with profit in mind. “I think Poundbury has a lot of thought that has gone into the architecture, how it looks, and how it feels for people. If people are happy in a place, they’re going to want to do more to support their community.” In this sense, King Charles’s vision for Britain has already had a big impact on housing policy. Housing Secretary Michael Gove said last year that “people do not want ugliness imposed on them” and vowed to step in to block ugly housing developments. Last month he did just that, blocking a plan for 164 homes in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Crane Valley, near Tunbridge Wells, citing the “generic” look of the designs. Perhaps the dream of building beautiful homes is the clearest sign of all that King Charles’s vision for Britain and strong views on housing are alive and well outside Poundbury. It might not solve the housing crisis, but it will make a street party more pleasant at least. ■ Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers / The Big Issue UK bigissue.com @BigIssue June 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

INSP INSIGHTS of the common stereotypes of homeless people you refer to?”, replying: “A homeless person can be described as someone who lacks a permanent place to live, they may be staying in a shelter, transitional housing, sleeping on the street or in a makeshift shelter like a tent or a car. They could have lost their job, be facing mental health or addiction issues, or have experienced other events such as a natural disaster, domestic violence, or a medical emergency, that have left them without a stable home. They may be trying to access services such as job training, mental health counseling, or substance abuse treatment, to improve their situation. It’s worth noting that homelessness can happen to anyone, regardless of their background and it’s a complex issue that requires multiple solutions.” That spurs a conversation about how hereditary privilege PHOTO BY JONATHAN KEMPER ON UNSPLASH WHAT CAN AI TELL US ABOUT PERCEPTIONS OF HOMELESSNESS? BY TONY INGLIS IMBUING AN AI CHATBOT with human characteristics doesn’t seem so ridiculous at a time when such technology is showing uncanny steps forward in its ability to learn and adapt, with some reports of their sentience verging on the most pessimistic predictions of sci-fi. If you’re aware of their existence, the progression shown by generative language models like ChatGPT seems to have come on leaps and bounds, as the Microsoft-backed OpenAI has released a version of its creation into the public domain and has been all the rage. AI like this, in the most basic terms, consumes information it’s been fed – mainly from the internet – and, via a complex algorithm, regurgitates an answer in response to a prompt. The AI uses the information at its disposal to essentially guess the most appropriate next word in a sequence. That process is why it is emerging as such a powerful tool, one that is even being integrated into online search systems that its creators hope may rival a behemoth like Google. But this is also a sign of the limits of this technology. “Much evidence exists of the strong role that perception can play in shaping reality,” writes the Centre for Homelessness impact at the top of a report outlining its findings around public perceptions of homelessness earlier this year. The report goes on to highlight statistics that show public awareness of homelessness as an issue that needs to be addressed is high. However, later it reads: “Of greatest concern are the continuing misconceptions highlighted by our surveys. Asked about the characteristics of people experiencing homelessness, the average answer was that 53% are living with a drug or alcohol dependency. The actual figures are between 5% and 7%. Another mean answer was that 34% are immigrants to this country, which is more than twice the figure (14%) of people from outside the UK who apply for homeless assistance from a local authority.” With this in mind, could AI divulge a more accurate perception of homelessness, with all of the power and tools at its disposal? Across numerous conversations with ChatGPT, it was clear that some of society’s most entrenched prejudices persist within AI too. *** With the prompt “draw a picture of a street paper vendor”, ChatGPT is quick to put you in your place – it is an AI language model and therefore does not create images. But its description of a picture it would draw gets to the heart of the matter: “The street paper vendor is a homeless man or woman, standing on a busy street corner. They have a stack of newspapers in their hand and a worn expression on their face. They are wearing ragged clothes and a look of determination in their eyes.” A “worn expression.” “Ragged clothes.” “A look of determination in their eyes.” It’s a picture of struggle, devoid of nuance. Asked “What does a homeless person look like?”, the AI promisingly replies that “there is no one specific ‘look’ of a homeless person”, but then goes on again to describe them as maybe being “dressed in dirty of worn clothes”, carrying “all their belongings in a backpack or shopping cart”, and might be “sitting on a sidewalk with a cardboard sign asking for money.” As the conversation continues, many of the chatbots initial observations are pushed back on. In response to the prompt “If not all homeless people beg or panhandle, why was it one of the first descriptors you used for a scene involving a homeless person?”, it replies: “I apologize if my previous response suggested that all homeless people panhandle. That is not accurate, and I apologize for any confusion. Panhandling is one way that some homeless individuals try to acquire resources to meet their basic needs, but it is not the only way, and not all homeless people panhandle.” After some back and forth, it responds to the prompt “Could you describe a homeless person without using some and the makeup of society is weighted against certain people and communities. By constantly drilling down, the AI is learning to delve further into its system to provide a more relevant response. It is not capable of opinion and provides little pushback when it generates responses that play into common stereotypes. Eventually, it is prompted with: “Having now had this discussion, how would you answer the question ‘what does a homeless person look like’?” It replies: “It is important to remember that homelessness affects people from all walks of life and can happen to anyone. There is no one specific “look” of a homeless person. People experiencing homelessness may come from diverse backgrounds and may have a wide range of appearances. They may be young or old, male or female, and may have a variety of physical and mental health conditions. They may be dressed in a range of clothing styles. It is not appropriate to make assumptions about a person’s situation based on their appearance. “It is important to focus on the underlying issues that lead to homelessness and not to stereotype or stigmatize people who are experiencing homelessness. Rather than asking what a homeless person looks like, it is more important to focus on understanding and addressing the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness, such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, and lack of access to healthcare and mental health services.” Later it replies: “As an AI, I do not have personal experiences or emotions, and my knowledge is based on the text data that I have been trained on. My responses are generated based on patterns in this data, and while I can provide information and answer questions, I don’t have the same level of understanding and empathy as a person who has directly interacted with or experienced homelessness.” *** Conversations with AI chatbots may be au courant at the moment, and many of its uses seem frivolous. However, its potential practical uses in homeless outreach and activism – predictive modeling, automation, as learning and reporting tools, language processing, and data analysis – may have an impact on public perceptions of homeless people and their communities that will ultimately feed back into AI language models and make their outputs more informed and accurate. But, with its current capabilities, AI can give us little insight into how people experiencing homelessness are perceived beyond parroting back known and ingrained stigmas that we as human beings have of them. In fact, it is disheartening to read the frenzied reporting around AI that seems quick to humanize these machines – perhaps more willingly than many are to see humanity in people on the streets. ■ Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers 8 DENVER VOICE June 2023 NATIONAL STORY CAN PUBLICLY OWNED INTERNET CLOSE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN US CITIES? BY CAREY L. BIRON SOFTWARE ENGINEER DAN SHUHLER spent 15 years frustrated with patchy internet service while living in apartments in Arlington, Virginia – and having no recourse. Each of those complexes contracted with just a single internet provider, leaving residents with no option for other services – a common situation, he said. “I’d probably rather have the water go out than the internet – I can get bottled water, but trying to find another place to work isn’t doable,” said Shuhler, 40. Shuhler has since bought a house, but he supports an effort to push Arlington to copy a strategy backers say has proven successful elsewhere: publicly owned, locally controlled internet service. “Especially now with everything online, it’s basically a requirement to function in society,” Shuhler added. Supporters say a public option could create more local competition, prompt increased investment, drive down prices – and reach those without internet connections. Such debates are happening across the country, bolstered by the COVID-19 pandemic moving key services such as healthcare, grocery shopping, and government processes online, and now by preparations for a massive federal program to close the digital divide. About a fifth of the country lacks internet access, particularly in poor, rural, and Native American communities, according to public records. “Treat it like a public utility – then everyone is getting proper access to it and hopefully improving service,” said Tim Dempsey, a member of the ArlFiber Collective, a volunteer group that has been pushing the issue in Arlington. The county is conducting a study on addressing the digital divide that will include a community broadband option, with recommendations due this year. “Robust broadband connectivity has become a driver of progress in ... economic development, affordable healthcare, public security, transportation, education, and much more,” said Jim Baller of the Coalition for Local Internet Choice, an umbrella group of public and private entities. Not making such investments “isn’t just a matter of a dropped Zoom call,” he said. “You’re retarded in your ability to stay current in all of those areas.” Yet some worry the new federal funding efforts place too much emphasis on public initiatives – and say their worth is unproven. “At the very least, this should be a level playing field, with those forming the best proposals receiving the grant money,” said Johnny Kampis, director of telecom policy for the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, a watchdog group. The alliance in April released a report citing “unprecedented interest” in publicly owned networks but warning that such projects have often proved wasteful, redundant, and inefficient in closing the digital divide. YEAR OF THE ‘PUBLIC OPTION’? Community broadband networks now serve more than 20 million homes, according to the recently formed American Association for Public Broadband, a nonprofit founded by state and local officials. “The time for public broadband has come,” Gigi Sohn, the association’s first executive director, said in an interview following her appointment this month. “This is the right thing at the right time, with money flowing and people sick of not having affordable choices,” said Sohn, a former nominee for commissioner on the Federal Communications Commission. About 600 communities are served by some form of municipal network, according to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance’s community broadband networks initiative. Dozens more such projects are in the pipeline, said Sean Gonsalves, communications lead for the initiative, pointing to Knoxville, Tennessee; Pharr, Texas; Waterloo, Iowa, and elsewhere. “For decades the market has been broken. Most Americans get internet service through a monopoly cable provider, and here all these years later ... we still have this digital divide,” said Gonsalves. Some cities are creating their own internet provider, while others are simply putting in high-speed infrastructure and allowing providers to use it. Municipal systems have tended to result in more affordable rates and some of the fastest options available, Gonsalves said, citing efforts in Chattanooga, Tennessee; Wilson, North Carolina; Fairlawn, Ohio, and elsewhere. Yet these systems have been contentious, and 16 states have restricted such a “public option”, according to research group BroadbandNow, after Colorado this month rolled back its barriers. Nonetheless, 2023 “could be the year that things begin to change”, it said in an April report, fueled by the massive new federal funding available. The government last year created a $65 billion “Internet for All” initiative aiming to build out high-speed internet infrastructure and bring down costs, with money expected to start flowing in the coming months. Regulators have been explicit that local governments should be eligible. “We want to get the best possible networks built,” said a spokesperson with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration in emailed comments. “To do that, we’ve asked states to create a level playing field on which municipalities; cooperatives; and small, medium, and large companies can all compete for these funds.” Still, draft guidance requires financial letters of credit from applicants, which could be an obstacle for local governments, said Jake Varn, a principal associate with Pew’s Broadband Access Initiative. It is “an outstanding question” as to whether a waiver or other process could be put in place, he said, given that municipal governments “don’t necessarily operate on that same financial plane as a for-profit provider”. INVISIBLE PROBLEM Los Angeles County is using pandemic relief money to build what could become one of the largest municipal broadband projects in the country. The effort was motivated by residents’ problems during the pandemic accessing telehealth, applying for jobs, and engaging in financial transactions, said Selwyn Hollins, director of the county’s internal services department. About 400,000 county households lack home internet – a figure so large as to have a generational impact, Hollins said, but one that is relatively invisible. The new program will allow selected companies to use publicly owned roofs, towers, and other infrastructure to bring free broadband to low-income households, with thousands likely connected by the end of the year. “In parts of the county, there’s only one provider, so there’s no other option for people,” Hollins said. “This is a very expensive place to live, so the choice has become difficult for a lot of families.” While still new, the effort fits in with any county’s responsibility to support the most vulnerable, Hollins said. “This is what we do.” Elsewhere, nonprofits are working to fill this role. Price is also the main obstacle in Baltimore, Maryland, where 40% of homes do not have a broadband subscription, said Samantha Musgrave, director of Project Waves. The nonprofit works to bring free broadband to tenants in apartment complexes, currently serving around 1,000 low-income households – and with a long list of interested properties. “The internet is a utility, the same as water or electricity,” Musgrave said. “And we need to be really serious about the way that we’re providing access to this utility.” ■ This article first appeared on Context, powered by the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers. PHOTO BY JOHN SCHNOBRICH ON UNSPLASH June 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

NATIONAL FEATURE HOLISTIC DOULA CIARA CLARK, 34, RECEIVES A KISS FROM HER MOTHER ELLE T PARKER, 53, WHILE SHE LABORS IN HER BIRTHING POOL AT HER HOME BIRTH IN TOMS RIVER, NEW JERSEY, U.S., SEPTEMBER 11, 2022. REUTERS/JOY MALONE BLACK MOTHERS IN THE U.S. SPEAK OF CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE BY JOY MALONE AND CORINNE PERKINS CIARA CLARK, A BLACK DOULA, labored for more than nine hours at home before making a last-minute switch to go to the hospital to give birth. With her own Black doula and mother by her side, Clark had hoped to have her baby at home with no medical assistance at all. She wanted to have a “wild” pregnancy - one that is medically unassisted. “I wanted to go through this birth without having any medical intervention,” said Clark, age 34. After four cesarean sections with her previous pregnancies, Clark said she feared that her birth plan would not be supported by the medical staff. But after a long labor, Clark said she became anxious and decided to go to the hospital, where she gave birth to a healthy son. Clark is not alone in her distrust of medical intervention in the birthing process. Nine Black pregnant women and new mothers voiced similar comments. All of the women spoke of feeling unseen and unheard at times through their pregnancy and postpartum period. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) April data shows that Black women in the United States are three times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white HOLISTIC DOULA CIARA CLARK, 34, LOOKS LOVINGLY AT EVAN, HER SLEEPING NEWBORN, IN TOMS RIVER, NEW JERSEY, U.S., SEPTEMBER 18, 2022. REUTERS/JOY MALONE 10 DENVER VOICE June 2023 NATIONAL FEATURE PAGE TITLE women. The CDC said this was a result of multiple factors, including variations in the quality of healthcare, underlying chronic conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias. For Chelsea Ward, 32, a nursing student from Fords, New Jersey, who recently gave birth to twins, the state of Black maternal health in the United States is “inadequate.” “It’s challenging when you’re fighting and advocating for your maternal health rights, and having to educate your peers as well,” Ward said. Obtaining knowledge and self-advocating is key to making informed decisions, Ward added. RESILIENCE AND JOY Despite their challenges, the women described their resilience as they navigate maternal healthcare and motherhood. Soyal Smalls, 37, from Poughkeepsie, New York, who was pregnant when photographed in August 2022, believes increasing the number of Black healthcare providers would help Black mothers, along with having more hospitals with birthing units to support the mother and allow for more vaginal births. Ashlee Muhammad, 37, agreed, saying her doctors had assumed she would have a cesarean and she had to advocate for herself to have a vaginal birth for her twins. Many of the women also emphasized the importance of postpartum care. “If we are not whole as mothers, I don’t know how anyone expects us to care for these children,” Clark said. Ward said she thought more education for the Black community on innovations in birthing, postpartum care, and parenting would be beneficial. “I truly believe that if we know better, we would do better,” she said. Shariah Bottex, a 30-year-old program manager in Flushing, New York, pumped milk while her fiance fed their newborn son when photographed her in March. She said her biggest hope for her children is that they will feel comfortable in their skin and that they get to enjoy their childhood. “My greatest joy as a mother is seeing my baby smile so big and knowing that I’m the cause of that smile and his happiness,” Bottex said. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / International Network of Street Papers Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org HOLISTIC DOULA CIARA CLARK, 34, RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM HER HUSBAND ANTHONY CLARK, A 38-YEAR-OLD VIP ASSOCIATE FOR A SPORTS BETTING COMPANY, WHILE SHE LABORS IN HER BED AT HER HOME BIRTH IN TOMS RIVER, NEW JERSEY, U.S., SEPTEMBER 11, 2022. REUTERS/JOY MALONE June 2023 DENVER VOICE 11 DONATE YOUR CAR!

IN YOUR OWN WORDS STOP SAYING I CAN’T, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR SELF, STOP SAYING, “I CAN’T!” When you do that, it gives you permission to not do anything. Every time you say you can’t, what you’re really doing is giving up on Self. You, and no one else, can do anything for Self. You have the power over Self to fail or succeed – even when others keep telling you, “You can’t do this,” or “You know you can’t do that because it will not come out right,” or “You will mess it up, you know you will fail,” or other statements like that. It is up to you to change how you react when people tell you such things. You either believe them when they tell you that you can’t, or you tell Self, “I don’t care if they tell me I can’t. I believe in Self, and Self doesn’t care what they say. If it is not something good, I don’t have to listen to them. The only person who can help me make it in life is SELF!” RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA Be your own voice for Self. No one but Self can think, feel, or speak for Self. Don’t ever tell Self you can’t. Love your Self enough so you don’t believe those negative words because they are not true. You don’t want to fail Self. You can do anything you put your mind to. Believe in Self because no one can believe in Self but YOU. No one can live your life, but Self. So, LOVE SELF and ONLY TAKE IN GOOD THINGS! Let go of hateful words from others. Always tell Self, “I CAN DO ANYTHING I WANT TO DO!” You can do it, Self. I believe in you. Always say, “I CAN,” to SELF! ■ DENVER VOICE CONTRIBUTORS, CLASEN, DAVIS, RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR WORK BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN, MANAGING EDITOR DURING THE FIRST HALF OF 2023, longtime Denver VOICE contributors Giles Clasen and Robert Davis each received awards for their stellar journalistic efforts. In April, Davis, who received his Master of Science in journalism this past December from New York University, picked up two Top of the Rockies awards from the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ). In addition to winning third place in the Climate Reporting category for an article he wrote for Yellow Scene magazine, Davis also placed first in the Enterprise Reporting category for his work on the Chasing Progress series, which was a project coordinated by the Colorado News Colaborative (COLab). Additionally, Davis won first place from the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing for his work on an Insider’s Warehouse Nation package. Giles Clasen has received several awards for one of the photos he took for “RV Living on the Road to Housing,” which was the cover story for the Denver VOICE’s October 2022 issue. This includes first place in the SPJ’s Top of the Rockies awards in the Feature Photography/Videography category. The photo will also be included in the Colorado GILES CLASEN’S COVER PHOTO FOR THE OCTOBER 2022 ISSUE OF THE VOICE HAS RECEVED SEVERAL AWARDS. IMAGE COURTESY OF AI-AP 39. 12 DENVER VOICE June 2023 Photographic Arts Center Annual Juried Members’ Show later this summer. Perhaps the most prestigious coverage Clasen’s recent work received is the inclusion of his photographs in the American Photography 39 annual award book. Of more than 7000 entries, the jury — which is composed of distinguished photographers, artistic directors, and creative directors from outlets like ProPublica, National Geographic, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and The New York Times — selected 443 images representing the best pictures from 2022. Two of the 443 were taken by Clasen. According to Clasen, he is thrilled with the recognition that his work has earned, but what means even more is that the people in the photographs are just as excited about the attention and hope the coverage will instill a better understanding of those experiencing homelessness. The Denver VOICE may be among the smallest papers in the International Network of Street Papers, but our exceptional team of award-winning contributors continues to position us as one of the very best. ■ EVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES 2ND ANNUAL SUMMER BOOK SWAP Grab a drink and search for your next great read at the 2nd annual summer book swap. WHEN: June 3, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. COST: Event is free - just bring a book! WHERE: Western Sky Bar & Taproom, 4361 S. Broadway INFO: westernskybar.com CITY PARK JAZZ Jazz in the park is back! Enjoy live music, sunsets, food trucks, adorable dogs, and a sense of community at this beloved city event. WHEN: June 4, 11, 18, and 25, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free but donations accepted. WHERE: City Park Pavilion, 2001 Steele St. INFO: cityparkjazz.org COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 REGIRAMA SUMMER MOVIE SERIES: VIVO Come on out for a free outdoor screening of Vivo. Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs, and picnics. A couple of food trucks will also be on-site. WHEN: June 9, doors open at 6:30 p.m., movie begins at dusk COST: Free entry. WHERE: Regis University – Boettcher Commons, 3333 Regis Blvd. INFO: regis.edu REACH 4 PEACE PICNIC The Struggle of Love Foundation is hosting their 16th annual Reach 4 Peace Picnic, which is a free family event celebrating outstanding fathers in the community. Free food will be provided along with free activities for the whole family, including face painting, pony rides, a car show, live entertainment, haircuts, and health screenings. WHEN: June 18, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Silverman Park, 12875 Andrews Dr. INFO: struggleoflovefoundation.org ACROSS DOWN 1. Cousin of “ahem” 5. Locker room supply 9. Savory flavor 14. Duo before do 15. Time piece 16. Like oak leaves... or brains 17. Inoffensive 20. Plumber of note 21. Mexican turnover 22. Accounts ___ 25. Musical aptitude 26. Lite 28. Word spelled out in a Nat King Cole classic 32. “It looks like it’s all over for me” 36. Recipe phrase 37. Rebuttal 40. Spanish others 41. Hawk trainer 42. Shipshape 43. Seder staple 45. Address book abbr. 46. Come (from) 51. Pressing needs? 56. Started eating 57. Realm of fantasy 60. “The Little Engine That ___” 61. Parade spoiler 62. Stead 63. Hold in reserve 64. Sea bird 65. Like some decisions 1. Well-rounded? 2. Yemen’s capital 3. Narrative 4. Leg part 5. Not just any 6. Green New Deal proponent, initially 7. Pear-shaped instrument 8. Black Sea region 9. Of an arm bone 10. Bellyache 11. “Dancing Queen” quartet 12. Pinochle combo 13. It comes to mind 18. Merchandise odds and ends 19. Milky gem 23. Word before star or ranger 24. Decorative pitcher 27. Skill 28. Airport pickup 29. The yoke’s on them 30. Tarzan’s transport 31. ___’acte (intermission) 32. Clickable image 33. Bit of dust 34. Ambience 35. Itsy-bitsy biter 36. Shakespeare title starter 38. Bulldoze 39. Grab (onto) 43. Sporty Spice, by another name 44. Magnetism 45. ___ bear 47. Cancels 48. From the top 49. Athlete’s foot 50. Eventually become 51. Secretly loops in: Abbr. 52. Natural balm 53. Defeat decisively 54. Onion, for one 55. Slash mark? 58. Relations 59. Four quarters DENVER PRIDE Denver Pride 2023 is back with two full days of entertainment and fun! Attendees can enjoy the Pride Parade, Pride Fest, 5K, live entertainment, local vendors, and a number of other pride-related activities! WHEN: Jun 24 and Jun 25, times vary. COST: Free + open to the public. WHERE: Civic Center Park, 101 W 14th Ave. INFO: denverpride.org June 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Warren and Betty Kuehner Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity • 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 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 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! 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 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 14 DENVER VOICE June 2023 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 303-447-1207, 3080 Broadway, Boulder. Open every day, 12:30-5pm, for anyone ages 12-24. Office: 303-447-1206. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 tgthr.org URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; weekly Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd). christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center June 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE ‘BLACK BY POPULAR DEMAND’ Changing the W e View Art gg y ALESSIA REDWINE REFRAMES ARTISTIC HISTORY TO BE MORE INCLUSIVE. PAGE 6 CREATIVELY OPTIMISTIC SCOTT RODGER TURNS TO HIS OLD WORK AS A TATTOO ARTIST TO FIND A SAFER PATH FORWARD. PAGE 8 ‘TRASHION’ TACKLES A BURNING PROBLEM A KYRGYZ ECO-ACTIVIST SEWS CLOTHES OUT OF WASTE THAT WOULD OTHERWISE BE BURNT IN A LANDFILL. PAGE 5 A CHANCE TO PLAY THROUGH ITS SCHOLARSHIPS, PARENT ROCKER GIVES YOUNG MUSICIANS A CHANCE TO MASTER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND PERFORM FOR LIVE AUDIENCES. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MAY 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 5 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: I’M THAT GIRL (WITH THE PEARLS (2022) IS A RENDITION OF JOHANNES VERMEER’S GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING (1665).

EDITOR’S NOTE REGULAR READERS of the Denver VOICE, or anyone familiar with the street paper model, knows our monthly publication is only a part of the Denver VOICE’s mission. As the managing editor of the paper, my job is to produce a paper written by journalists or journalism students. The Denver VOICE is not a ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR resource provider, meaning, we do not offer services like shelter, daily meals, or medical services. While we have consistently provided our Resource List both in the paper and on our website, it is only recently that we’ve implemented programs to provide our vendors with more than that resource list. Since joining the VOICE, Program Coordinator Connie Gaitan has established new, or built upon existing relationships with our community service providers. By doing this, she can reach out to professionals, if a vendor is struggling with addiction or other mental health issues. If a vendor needs a medical doctor, or needs other assistance, Connie helps them track down whatever resource may be the best avenue to get vendors the care they need. She also makes sure there is always a supply of hand and feet warmers, socks, hats, clothing, or toiletries for vendors who could use them. As important as it is to publish a quality street paper that features articles by professional journalists, while including sections dedicated to VOICE vendors, the program is the primary reason for the VOICE’s existence. Sometimes, it can be easy to overlook the people working behind the scenes to keep a mission-driven organization like ours on track and ensure that it is fulfilling its potential. Connie is not one to seek attention and would probably tell you she’s just doing her job, but in the six months since she joined the VOICE, Connie has made an immeasurable difference, which is why I wanted to acknowledge her. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ASHTON BROWN graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in convergent journalism and a minor in cinema studies. She and her fiance currently live with their two cats in Lakewood. is trying to find housing, GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg GRACE THORBURN is a journalism student at the University of Colorado Boulder. She hopes that her writing will make a difference in the community by covering social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, homelessness, and racial equity. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen WRITERS 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. John Alexander Lando Allen Zakiyyah Brooks Ashton Brown Rea Brown Giles Clasen Bree Davies Raelene Johnson Jacob Marsh Steve Szloboda Grace Thorburn BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Donovan Cordova Antonio Diaz Raelene Johnson Jennifer Seybold 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE May 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S ASK A VENDOR CAME FROM DENVER VOICE VENDOR JOHN ALEXANDER. Q A Do you have a different opinion of the Denver VOICE since you fi rst became a vendor? LANDO ALLEN When I first heard about the VOICE, I thought it would be easy to vend papers, but it wasn’t. I thought I could save money and start another business while doing the VOICE. The mistake I made was getting into relationships with people that didn’t bring anything to the table. So, I was stuck taking care of people who didn’t do things for themselves. Today, I feel I have the skills for the VOICE and to not make the same mistakes I made before. I’ll try to save money, so I can build a houseboat. ZAKIYYAH BROOKES Yes. I thought [the VOICE] was just getting the word out about the stories that people tell and write, but it’s more than that. It’s your voice that does good work because you act on not only helping someone be heard, but you’re also being heard. JACOB MARSH I first started in 2009 with the Denver VOICE. I have met a lot of good people at the VOICE. We have lost some of those people, due to weather, starvation, self-inflicted harm, or something unforeseen. I have seen several directors come and go, and several staff members as well, but every time I come into the office, I am welcomed in like family. Yes, a lot has changed, but in some ways, it is still very much the same. STEVE SZLOBODA Over time, the community has gotten to know me. A few months ago, someone even gave me a Facebook shoutout to support me as a vendor. I also recently brought in a volunteer to help at the Denver VOICE office. JOHN ALEXANDER My opinion of the Denver VOICE was really based on just meeting this non-profit. I felt it was just an organization that helps people if it could – nothing special, though. But today, I have a much different opinion. The Denver VOICE is a lifechanging open door to unlimited opportunities. RAELENE JOHNSON My life has changed since coming to the VOICE. I was sleeping under a bridge when I started. The paper gave me a job when no one else would. We have more [resources] to help vendors now. We now have an art program [to help vendor artists get their sales licenses and sell their artwork on their own.] Now, they help [by connecting vendors] with mental health providers. I wish we had everything 16 years ago. I now have been with the VOICE for 14 years and lived in my home for 13 years. Your support of the VOICE goes to keep us working. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. May 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

PAGE TITLE GUEST EDITORIAL SPRING WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. WHO GETS TO TELL OUR STORIES? BY BREE DAVIES, HOST OF CITY CAST DENVER WHO GETS TO TELL OUR STORIES? Who is chosen as an “expert” or source when the reporters show up asking questions about your community? Who gets to be the reporter in the first place? As a journalist, I know who I’ve been instructed to seek out as a source. But sometimes, the source in a story isn’t the one who should be interviewed; they’re the person who should be writing the story. As a journalist, I also know that journalism itself has been consumed by academia, abducted and abused by capitalism, and dominated by newsrooms often full of reporters with similar economic situations and backgrounds. But at its root, journalism is a medium by and for the people. The Denver VOICE embodies that root. That place where journalism should come from. That foundation from which communities can tell their stories because they are the experts. When I first met a VOICE vendor on the street in Capitol Hill many years ago, I bought a paper because I was curious. I had no idea the VOICE would become a crucial part of my media consumption and a go-to source for information, perspective, and opinion on my community and my city. But my favorite part? Chatting with a Denver VOICE NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick, sunscreen Bottled water BREE DAVIES SITS AT BREAKFAST KING. PHOTO COURTESY OF BREE DAVIES vendor while grabbing a paper, then getting home, opening it up, and finding a piece written by that vendor. That’s onthe-ground journalism. That’s community-first journalism. That’s real journalism. That’s the Denver VOICE. ■ Editor’s note: On May 7, Bree Davies will be the guest speaker at the Denver VOICE’s Rise and Thrive breakfast fundraiser. She will also present the Denver VOICE Vendor of the Year award at the event. Davies is a long-time champion of the VOICE and the individuals we serve. GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE 4 DENVER VOICE May 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY A MAN SEARCHES FOR RECYCLABLE MATERIALS AS SMOKE BILLOWS FROM BURNING GARBAGE AT A LANDFILL IN THE OUTSKIRTS OF BISHKEK, KYRGYZSTAN MARCH 31, 2023. CREDIT: REUTERS/PAVEL MIKHEYEV KYRGYZ ECO-ACTIVIST’S ‘TRASHION’ TACKLES A BURNING PROBLEM BY OLZHAS AUYEZOV A KYRGYZ ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST has found a way to combat toxic fumes choking her city by literally turning trash into treasure, and sewing clothes out of the waste that would otherwise be burned in a landfill or someone’s stove. Garments are a major industry in the Central Asian nation of 7 million, but manufacturers often discard scrap material in landfills outside the capital, Bishkek, to be burned or scavenged to heat people’s homes. Those fumes make the air even more toxic in Bishkek, which is already one of the world’s most polluted cities, thanks to its widespread use of coal. But artist Cholpon Alamanova A SEAMSTRESS WORKS ON A PIECE IN THE KYRGYZ TRADITIONAL PATCHWORK SEWING TECHNIQUE, KURAK, IN A WORKSHOP IN BISHKEK, KYRGYZSTAN MARCH 30, 2023. KYRGYZ ARTIST AND ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST CHOLPON ALAMANOVA AND HER TEAM OF MORE THAN 80 WOMEN USE THE KYRGYZ TRADITIONAL PATCHWORK SEWING TECHNIQUE, KURAK, IN ORDER TO RECYCLE THE TEXTILE WASTE, USUALLY BURNED IN LANDFILLS, INTO COLOURFUL BLANKETS, CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES. CREDIT: REUTERS/PAVEL MIKHEYEV came up with a solution that makes use of a traditional patchwork sewing technique, called kurak, to recycle the textile waste into colorful blankets, clothes, and accessories. In doing so, her workshop has become part of a global “trashion” trend promoting the use of recycled, used, thrownout, and repurposed elements to create garments, jewelry, and art. The task engenders a warming feeling that motivates her to keep doing it, said Alamanova, while helping to keep alive the tradition. “Every single item that we make with students imparts a very pleasant feeling that at least, for a tiny bit, we have made Kyrgyzstan cleaner and helped maintain the purity of its air, water, and land,” she added. Her team, which has grown to more than 80 women aged between 25 and 79, has processed 300 kg (661 pounds) of fabric within a few months, winning public acclaim for fighting pollution while popularising kurak. Works by Alamanova and her students, displayed at an art show in neighboring Kazakhstan last month, have inspired Kazakh women to follow suit, with one of her Kazakh students vowing to start a similar project there. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / International Network of Street Papers May 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE ‘BLACK BY POPULAR DEMAND’ Changing the Way We View Art BY GRACE THORBURN BORN AND RAISED IN DENVER, Alessia Redwine aspires to become a successful art curator and artist. As she wraps up her junior year at the University of Colorado Boulder, her main focus lies within the medium of painting, but she also enjoys exploring mixed media. “I started painting my freshman year of college, and stopped since,” Redwine I haven’t stated. “There is a misrepresentation of Black women in the art industry. When Black women are showcased, they are often shown as less than,” Redwine said. “As a 21-year-old, I feel like I’m still seeing a lot of lack of representation. So, I’d say representation plays a big part in my art, and just expressing myself unapologetically and not apologizing for taking up space and being who I am.” Reframing artistic history to be more inclusive was a driving force in Redwine’s first painting series titled “Black by Popular Demand.” Taking historical pieces like “The MAMA LISA (2022) This rendition of the Mona Lisa (1503) was inspired by both Leonardo da Vinci and Ebonee Davis. Davis is one of Redwine’s favorite models. “My hope is that Black women see this piece and know our hair can be formal and elegant, no matter the shape, size, or stature.” PHOTO COURTESY OF ALESSIA REDWINE 6 DENVER VOICE May 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE REBIRTH OF AFRODITE (2022), is a rendition of Alexandre Cabanel’s Birth of Venus (1863). “Here, Afrodite is sitting in her shell. I did this as a reminder that I, along with all Black women, will not stand to be disrespected, overlooked, or taken advantage of. For this painting, I drew from one of SZA’s many iconic photo shoots.” Birth of Venus” and “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” which center around what she referred to as “the elegance of white women,” Redwine’s paintings are abstract renditions that represent the subjects as Black women, instead. Inspiration for her series struck while Redwine was attending an art history lecture. According to Redwine, she noticed the misrepresentation of Black women in great historical works of art and observed that when they were featured in paintings, elegance, and grace were often reserved for white models. Redwine uses art to process various feelings such as grief, liberation, and acceptance. While finding her voice as a Black woman in America — in spaces that are predominantly white — she is also in the process of finding her artistic voice. “My purpose is figuring out how to create work I’ve always wanted to see growing up. I think representation is so important, and growing up, I didn’t see enough representation,” Redwine said. “I went to a predominantly white high school, and now, I go to a predominantly white university. My paintings focus on the experience of a Black woman in places that aren’t normally diverse. I like to focus on the perspective of Black people and women, more specifically.” People in Redwine’s life have inspired her work. This includes her family and the artists she looks up to. Vincent van Gogh, Winslow Homer, and Long Beach-based artist Torin Ashtun are all Redwine’s primary artistic influences. According to Redwine, she hopes to own an art gallery, where she can showcase her work while also emphasizing the work of other BIPOC artists. She also said that as she grows as an artist, her work will continue to reflect and shine a light on the uplifting aspects of being a Black woman. ■ AFRODITE (2021) The first piece in “Black by Popular Demand” is Redwine’s rendition of “Birth of Venus” (1486) by Sandro Botticelli. “I was inspired by Ebonee Davis’ January 2020 Essence magazine photoshoot. I purposely changed the pose of Afrodite’s body so she would embody confidence with her arms stretched at her side rather than covering her body with shame.” PHOTO COURTESY OF ALESSIA REDWINE I’M THAT GIRL (WITH THE PEARLS) (2022) is a rendition of Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring (1665). “This piece was inspired by Zendaya’s 2020 Essence cover. I wanted to challenge myself with using materials that were 3D, seeing as though I felt unsure on how to paint so many pearls on her headwrap.” May 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREATIVELY OPTIMISTIC BY GILES CLASEN SCOTT RODGER HAS CONSTRUCTED a creative arrangement to avoid sleeping on the streets. After losing his security jobs with nightclubs and dispensaries during the pandemic, Rodger became homeless. When the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and other programs in the American Rescue Plan Act expired, he found himself unable to pay his rent and slept his first nights in a tent, under overpasses, or anywhere else he could find shelter. Then, he had the idea to find a safer path forward by turning to his old love and working as a tattoo artist. “I’m couch surfing right now and trying to get by,” Rodger said. “I go over [to their homes] and tattoo, and we have a few beers. It gives me a place to sleep. At the end of the day, I’ve got a roof over my head and a safe place to sleep, rather than under the stars in the park.” Rodger has no shortage of clients. He has tattooed other unhoused individuals living in trailers and found a steady stream of housed clients. All of them let him crash on their floor or couch after lengthy tattoo sessions. Rodger is fastidious about cleanliness and safety. He buys his single-use tattoo needles from mainstream tattoo supply shops. After donning gloves, Rodger shows his clients the unopened needles and fresh ink. He also uses an antiseptic to clean the skin he plans on tattooing and then begins to freehand his work. “I always feel honored that individuals let me decorate their bodies. We don’t buy art anymore. It is crazy expensive,” Rodger said. “Tattoos are the art people invest in. It is more than art. Tattoos are an expression of who we are, it is the art we carry on our bodies for the rest of our lives. It has meaning.” Rodger’s life has been defined by two things: art and hockey. He walked on as a hockey player at the University of Denver and played for a year at the University of Colorado, too. His official position was defenseman, but his real job was to be the enforcer on the ice. He was good at hitting opponents and protecting his teammates. Rodger found his greatest success playing on a couple of semipro teams around the Midwest. He played 47 games as a defenseman for the Minot Muskies in North Dakota. He also played 41 games for the Great Falls Americans in Montana. The hits that he sustained started feeling like daily car crashes, slamming against his body, and he decided to pursue his other love – working with pen and ink and calligraphy. Rodger received a degree from the Art Institute of Colorado. While at the Art Institute, Rodger found his groove doing etchings in bone, then metal. He briefly contemplated pursuing a career as an engraver for the United States Mint. Ultimately, Rodger landed an apprenticeship at Celebrity Tattoo, where he found a bit of stability needling ink into skin. He was learning his craft and not making a lot of money yet, but he was assured that working as a tattoo artist would bring him security. “Money has always been hard for me,” Rodger said. “Money has been tight since I tried to make it in hockey. While I don’t have much paper to show, I have memories for days.” Rodger finds it difficult to stay on one career trajectory. He has attention deficit disorder and gets bored quickly. He also talks fast, verbally sprinting, from one subject to the next as quickly as he moved in and out of penalty boxes. 8 DENVER VOICE May 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN His need to chase new interests led him away from tattooing full-time, and he moved into drawing art and caricatures of children and families at the Denver Zoo and Elitch’s. He worked security jobs, as well, to stay afloat. Just before the pandemic hit, Rodger was hired by Casa Bonita. He was certain it would give him a new purpose and creative outlet. He hopes the new owners will still honor the old offer. According to Rodger, he recently stopped by the Casa Bonita construction site and has been told repeatedly that they will call the old staff back sometime soon. But it is far from a secure job offer. Until then, Rodger continues to find individuals interested in trading a good night’s sleep for a new tattoo. He doesn’t think he will qualify for an apartment any time soon because the eviction after the pandemic has locked him out of the apartment market. It is a nonstarter everywhere he looks. But Rodger is a creative optimist and believes he has found a solution. He is in the process of buying an RV to give him a secure place to lay his head. It is the only option he sees for himself. “I’ve lived a very nice life, but I’m homeless right now,” Rodger said. “There are a lot of us living in a new reality after COVID and in places, we never expected to be.” ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN May 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: PARENT ROCKER ORGANIZATION PARENT ROCKER ORGANIZATION: PROVIDING YOUNG MUSICIANS THE CHANCE TO LEARN AND PERFORM BY ASHTON BROWN ONE OF THE BEST CHILDHOOD MEMORIES is performing on a stage, knowing friends and family are in the audience, watching. For many, without being part of a performance group like a choir, dance troupe, or band, getting to that stage may never happen. Parent Rocker Organization (PRO) provides opportunities for children to learn and become proficient musicians and performers. PRO offers scholarships, so children ages 7 to 18 can participate in the after-school music program at the School of Rock. Participants attend one lesson a week for three months. At the end of the three months, the students perform in front of a live audience. Parent Rocker Organization was established in 2013 and raises $20,000 in scholarships each year. Leading the organization is Melissa Hourigan, who has been a part of PRO for seven years and spent the last three as its president. According to Hourigan, the school was a powerful experience for her kids. “My husband is a musician, and he hasn’t played at half the CREDIT: PARENT ROCKER ORGANIZATION venues these kids have,” said Hourigan. “It’s really inspiring to see these kids, who are so talented and wouldn’t have that option without a scholarship.” .” Hourigan also said she has been fortunate to be able to send all three of her children to the Denver School of Rock, but the tuition, instruments, and even concert-related expenses, all add up. According 10 DENVER VOICE May 2023 LOCAL FEATURE PAGE TITLE DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. CREDIT: PARENT ROCKER ORGANIZATION to Hourigan, it was costing nearly $1,000 per semester to send her kids to school at the same time. Eligibility for a scholarship is based on parents’ financial status, and each prospective student must include a video and written submission about why they feel they deserve the scholarship. At the beginning of each season, 10 students are granted a scholarship, but there’s no limit to how many times one can apply for future seasons. “A lot of kids will continue to submit for scholarships for years,” Hourigan said. “It’s such a life-changing experience, and it shouldn’t just be reserved for the kids who can afford it. These kids are being raised in the Denver School of Rock. Each of my kids got involved at age 6, and it’s very rare a kid dips out.” According to Hourigan, she’s heard heart-wrenching stories, such as from teenagers who are living on their own and can’t afford the school tuition but want to be able to experience all it has to offer. “It’s a built-in family, and you get to play a part in bringing so much happiness and confidence into their life,” she said. At the height of the COVID pandemic, all of the lessons went online, and the program wasn’t deemed a necessity. Hourigan explained that the students were unable to perform live, which was just one of the challenges the school, educators, and the general community were dealing with. “It was so trying for us,” said Hourigan. “It was a hard time to fundraise. There were so many other things that people needed to think about; people were losing their jobs; they weren’t able to leave their homes.” Hourigan said she’s never worked for a nonprofit that has had such a profound effect on her. It might not be cancer research or suicide prevention, but according to Hourigan, “This is life-changing in such a beautiful and powerful way. It’s really touching to see what these kids can do.” Parent Rocker Organization is especially crucial for children and adolescents who have no other access to musical instruments. As Hourigan explained, “Art is one of the first things that gets cut in school a lot of the time. It just comes down to making it accessible for everyone, and music is such an important thing; not everyone is athletic.” For the program to succeed and allow more students an opportunity to participate, fundraising is essential. In the past, fundraisers for the school included small concerts at places like Hard Rock Cafe or free concerts in neighborhood parks. Occasionally, they have Chris Ryan, who is a local photographer, take photos during the shows to then sell on the Denver School of Rock website. All proceeds help fund scholarships. Most of the money raised for scholarships comes from private events. With the current season wrapping up, the next fundraiser, which will be the annual Rock in the Park concert in Denver’s City Park, will take place at the end of August. “That is our biggest fundraising event because it is a free show, and we are in full control,” said Hourigan.■ For more information about the organization and its upcoming classes or performances, visit DenverParentRocker.org. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org May 2023 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS OVERCOMING YOUR PAST BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR HOW DO YOU OVERCOME BAD THINGS THAT HAPPEN TO YOU? Do you think of your past daily? Do you always ask, “Why me.” over and over again? Do people say to you, ”You are no good, you will never be anything”? Over time, you will start to believe these words. You will give up on Self, stop even trying, believing you are nothing, so you take the painful insults from others, thinking that’s all you should get. When bad things happen to you when you are young, you don’t know where to turn or how to get help. You stay broken and lost. You long to be loved but don’t love Self, so you can’t receive love or truly give love back to someone. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA Until Self can truly love Self, no relationship can work. Take care of Self by first, finding out what or why bad things happened when you were young that are keeping you stuck. Until you know what you really need to deal with, you will never be free. The past has a way of holding tight to us, like a demon that pulls us back and keeps showing us the past hell we lived in, or that keeps us from seeing that our past is not our future. The past is just that – it is behind your butt. Let it go! Get help if you need it. Only you can overcome your past. Be the BEST SELF you can, so you WILL LIVE THE BEST LIFE EVER. You are worth so much, so let it SHINE! You can find peace, but you have to overcome the past first. I know you can do it, Self. ■ “BACK ON THE STREETS” BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR Editor’s note: Denver VOICE vendor, Rea Brown, wrote this “Back on the Streets” piece in homage to Brian Augustine, who passed away in January. When he died, Augustine was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to living on the streets when he could no longer afford his rent. Through the end of this year, Brown intends to continue contributing, or to encourage other VOICE vendors to contribute something in honor of Brian Augustine’s legacy. WHAT WILL TOMORROW BRING especially because it’s spring? Usually when the weather gets better there’s a measure of pleasure that brings people together for whatever endeavors REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN especially wedding receptions, sports and other professions, even graduations are places you can find an outdoor procession But I will ask all to look close at the question Most will propose that less clothes are an obvious blessing The more studious would stand alarmed at the possible lesson on lessons The homeless population abrasion or the continuation frustration the sweep and displacement and now the political races Adjacent to not smelling fentanyl on occasions or in places where breaks are taken or enjoying “you” time when the day ends Is the user on his or her way to the pavement after taking so many smokes they don’t know where the day went? In the open air, few even care about the Foul scent Another life ends among so-called friends congregating I mean, what will tomorrow bring especially because it’s spring? Usually, when the weather gets better, there’s a measure of pleasure that brings people together for whatever endeavors. ■ 12 DENVER VOICE May 2023 EVENTS SHRINKY DINK JEWELRY Come on out to the Sam Gary Branch Library to create jewelry made from shrinky dinks. All ages are welcome! WHEN: May 6, 10 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. COST: This event is free. Registration is not required, but materials and space are limited. WHERE: Sam Gary Branch Library; 2961 Roslyn St. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 ADAM CAYTON-HOLLAND Adam Cayton-Holland is a national touring comedian who was named one of 25 “Comics to Watch” by Esquire Magazine and one of “10 Comics to Watch” by Variety. Watch him perform at one of the best clubs in the country. WHEN: May 10, 8 p.m. COST: $20 WHERE: Comedy Works – Downtown, 1226 15th St. INFO: comedyworks.com ACROSS SLOAN’S LAKE SPRING BAZAAR This outdoor market will feature 80+ local vendors, DIY crafts, pop-up bars, food trucks, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. WHEN: May 13 + 14, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. COST: Free entry. WHERE: 1611 Raleigh St. INFO: facebook.com/DenverBazaar 1. Casual conversations 6. British network nickname, with “the” 10. “A Farewell to ___” 14. Party hearty 15. Poker pot starter 16. Horn sound 17. ___ acid (protein building block) 18. Actress Rowlands 19. Male turkeys or cats 20. Show up late to Wimbledon? 23. In a snobby fashion 24. “___ High” (1999 song that name-drops Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, and Aphrodite) THE NARRATORS The Narrators is a live storytelling show and podcast based in Denver, Colorado. Hosted by Ron S. Doyle and Erin Rollman. Comedians, actors, musicians, writers, and other fascinating folks share true stories from their lives, centered on a monthly theme. This month’s theme is Ages & Stages. WHEN: May 17; doors at 7:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m. COST: Name your own price; purchase in advance online. WHERE: Buntport Theater, 717 Lipan St. INFO: thenarrators.org 28. Striped shirt wearer 29. Suffocate 30. Non-___ (label on some organic foods) 33. Insult Sesame Street’s resident vampire? 36. Satisfied sounds 38. Shortly before? 39. Farm equipment 40. Put one’s money where one’s foot is? 45. Broadway sign acronym meaning “we have no more seats to sell” 46. Binge 47. ___ capita 49. “It has a certain je ___ quoi” 50. Like an issue divided along party lines 55. Take a whack at farming? 57. In this place 60. Peeples and Long 61. Patterned upholstery fabric 62. Awestruck 63. “Give or take” 64. Run in the wash 65. Musician related to Herman Melville who shares a name with a Herman Melville character 66. “Read ‘em and ___!” 67. Makes, as income DOWN 1. Studies into the wee hours the night before a test 2. Surround 3. Dispatch boat 4. Tightening muscle (anagram for NOTERS) 5. Like spoons used to make spaghetti 6. “Everything” breakfast item 7. Foe 8. Sicilian volcano 9. “Heck if I know” 10. Above all others 11. Friend of Pooh whose name rhymes with “Pooh” 12. May honoree 13. Ave. crossers 21. Old 45 player 22. Popular ice cream flavor, for short 25. Synagogues 26. Mister in Mexico 27. “One lump ___?” 29. Storage space for yard equipment, often 30. West African nation 31. Purple shade 32. “That’s for sure” 34. Labor Day mo. 35. Uno + due 37. Game plan 41. ___ to the throne 42. “Whoa, Nelly!” 43. Mortgage figs. 44. 1970 Beatles chart-topper 48. Swiss lozenge brand 50. New moon, e.g. 51. “The Boy Who Cried Wolf” writer 52. Downhill racer 53. Kind of wrench 54. Requires 56. Goodyear product 57. Western omelet ingredient 58. Bigheadedness 59. Burgle FREE CONCERT: LOS MOCOCHETES + ORKESTA MENDOZA Come enjoy a free night of music, featuring Los Mocochetes and Orkesta Mendoza. Bring your own blanket, chairs, picnic, and/or purchase food from rotating food trucks. Show is rain or shine. WHEN: May 28, doors at 4 p.m., show at 5 p.m. COST: Free for general admission. WHERE: Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W. Florida Ave. INFO: levittdenver.org May 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Bank of America Charitable Foundation Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Warren and Betty Kuehner Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois James and Cyndi Lesslie 14 DENVER VOICE May 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 303-447-1207, 3080 Broadway, Boulder. Open every day, 12:30-5pm, for anyone ages 12-24. Office: 303-447-1206. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 tgthr.org URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center May 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE THANKFUL FOR VOLUNTEERS BIPOC ROLLER DERBY R Y MEMBERS OF COLORADO SHINERS SEEK TO INFLUENCE CONVERSATION ABOUT EQU LITY PAGE 6 MB NE NVE UAL PROGRAM COORDINATOR CONNIE GAITAN SHARES HER APPRECIATION FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS. PAGE 2 FOOD BENEFITS TO SHRINK LOW-INCOME AMERICANS WILL LOSE THEIR ELIGIBILITY FOR PANDEMIC-ERA BENEFITS PAGE 4 IMAGES CHANGE PERCEPTIONS INSP INTERVIEWED DENVER VOICE CONTRIBUTOR GILES CLASEN ABOUT HIS APPROACH TO PHOTOGRAPHY PAGE 5 HIDDEN HOMELESSNESS WOMEN, 55 AND OLDER, ARE BEARING THE BRUNT OF ESCALATING HOUSING CRISIS PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 APRIL 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 4 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: “JAMS BOND” HELPED FOUND BOTH THE BIPOC BOWL AND THE COLORADO SHINERS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

PROGRAM UPDATE APRIL IS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH, and because I work so closely with the volunteers who come to our office or help us with our events, I wanted to celebrate volunteerism by recognizing the team of volunteers who bring so much to the Denver VOICE. I am very thankful to have CONNIE GAITAN PROGRAM COORDINATOR met such amazing people in our community that help us meet our mission to serve our unhoused neighbors. In the short amount of time that I’ve been with the Denver VOICE, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a few astounding volunteers. These people are dedicated and proud to do the work behind the scenes and make a difference, no matter how big or small the job is. That is why I’d like to spotlight two of our volunteers, Rose and Terry, whose time and effort makes such a difference to the Denver VOICE vendors and all of us on staff. I had the pleasure of meeting Rose Villela when I had just started working at the VOICE. Rose helped me rearrange our office space to make it more open and inviting. Not only does she exude this vibrant positive energy, but she’s also very generous and kind. When she heard the news of our longtime vendor Brian’s passing she stopped by our office and embraced me with a heartfelt hug and some flowers, while also expressing her condolences. She also made sure to let the staff know that if we needed anything to give her a call. She’s an advocate for many organizations that support those experiencing homelessness, and I look forward to working with her at our Rise and Thrive fundraising event next month. Terry’s been buying the Denver VOICE newspaper since the ’90s. Describing her work with the VOICE, Terry said, “It’s been a good experience to provide helpful resources, give vendors positive advice, and be a good support system for the vendors.” Terry stops by the office three times a week to count newspapers, sanitize surfaces, water the plants, and welcome vendors. She also refers people to our vendor program. Terry attends our gatherings, helps with the clean-up after, and makes small donations to help our vendors. I appreciate Terry’s dedication and willingness to show up – even when we are experiencing extremely cold days. In a short time, I’ve built great relationships with Rose and Terry, and I’m excited to highlight the importance of why their help at the Denver VOICE has made an impact on our organization. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTOR 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. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen WRITERS Zakkayiah Brooks Rea Brown Connie Gaitan Raelene Johnson Andrew McClenton Jerry Rosen 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. LeMarquis Smith BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Donovan Cordova Antonio Diaz Raelene Johnson Jennifer Seybold 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 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE April 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S ASK A VENDOR CAME FROM DENVER VOICE VENDOR JERRY ROSEN. Q What is your special talent? A ANDREW MCCLENTON Landscaping. I cut, weed, and edge. Also, I can draw cars. LEMARQUIS SMITH Well, I know one of my special talents is cooking. I have the uncanny ability to make anything (and I do mean anything) taste the way it is supposed to taste. I have three chili cook-offs under my belt already. I also believe I have a special talent to be able to say anything to anyone without them being offended. I’m a firm believer that you can say anything to anyone if you use the right words… Anything at all! JERRY ROSEN My special talent is being able to help people. I’m a very diligent and hard worker. I like to do more than I can handle. I’m very industrious and willing to do different things. RAELENE JOHNSON I believe my special ability is to help people understand there is a way out. I’m able to calm people down really easily, too. I truly believe all the pain I have suffered has given me a better understanding of others’ pain. I’m always tuned in to other people’s troubles. I feel it’s a blessing because I get to help people. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. April 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

PAGE TITLE NATIONAL STORY SPRING WISH LIST RESIDENTS RECEIVE FREE GROCERIES AT A FOOD PANTRY PROVIDED BY LA COLABORATIVA AMID THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) PANDEMIC IN CHELSEA, MASSACHUSETTS, U.S., NOVEMBER 30, 2021. REUTERS/BRIAN SNYDER Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. ANALYSIS: U.S. FOOD BENEFITS FOR POOR TO SHRINK AS PANDEMIC PROVISIONS END NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water BY LEAH DOUGLAS LOW-INCOME AMERICANS will soon receive less in food assistance or completely lose their eligibility for the benefits, as the federal government ends policies adopted at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic that kept millions from going hungry at a time of lockdowns and rising unemployment. Anti-hunger advocates warned that the looming drop in aid GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables VENMO YOUR VENDOR: If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! could undo progress toward a Biden administration goal to end US hunger by 2030. The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives may also pursue further cuts to food assistance to shrink the U.S. deficit. “It’s going to put millions of households at risk of hunger,” said Eric Mitchell, president of the Alliance to End Hunger. The changes mean cuts of about $82 a month beginning in March for recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, said Ellen Vollinger of the Food Research & Action Center, an anti-hunger group. The average SNAP benefit will be about $157 after the reduction. Since Congress passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act in March 2020, states have been able to allocate the maximum allowable benefits to SNAP recipients, instead of applying deductions tied to income and other factors. Initially, those “emergency allotments” were linked to the pandemic public health emergency. But in December’s spending bill fight, Congress negotiated a compromise to end them in February in exchange for a new summer food program for children. President Joe Biden’s administration has also said it will lift the coronavirus public health emergency in May. This will end other changes that expanded access to SNAP, like a suspension of the program’s three-month time limit for adults without children and exemptions for some college students. In recent months, the additional benefits tied to the pandemic response have come to about $3 billion a month, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP). Those higher benefits kept the percentage of Americans @DenverVOICE experiencing food insecurity steady at 10% through 2021, even as the first two years of the pandemic drove up unemployment, said Dottie Rosenbaum, senior fellow, and director of federal SNAP policy at CBPP. 4 DENVER VOICE April 2023 Meanwhile, food insufficiency - a more severe form of food insecurity wherein households sometimes or often do not have enough to eat - dropped by about 9%, according to a study by North Western University’s Institute for Policy Research. A separate study from the Urban Institute said the benefits kept 4.2 million people out of poverty. Anti-hunger advocates worry the looming reduction in aid could reverse those gains. In states where expanded benefits have already ended, 29% of SNAP recipients visited food pantries in December, compared to 22% in states that still had the benefits, according to data collected by Propel, a technology company that makes financial products for low-income people. ‘WAY TOO LOW’ The debate over U.S. spending on food assistance is likely to heat up in the coming months as lawmakers negotiate a new farm bill, a legislative package passed every five years that funds nutrition, commodity, and conservation programs. More than 76% of the current farm bill’s $428 billion price tag went to food assistance programs that serve 41 million people annually. The bill expires on September 30. Democrats generally support expanding benefits, while Republicans typically oppose expansion. “The SNAP benefit was already way too low, even before the pandemic,” Rep. Jim McGovern of Massachusetts, a Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee, said in an email. “We need to seriously boost benefit levels to reflect the reality of food costs today,” he said. Food prices are up 10% since last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. House Republicans have indicated they might review and tighten SNAP work requirements as part of farm bill negotiations. The House Budget Committee has also floated cuts to SNAP as a means of reducing spending in the ongoing debt limit fight. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / International Network of Street Papers LOCAL PROFILE Q&A: DENVER VOICE PHOTOGRAPHER GILES CLASEN ON USING IMAGES TO CHANGE PERCEPTIONS INTERVIEW BY TONY INGLIS Photographer Giles Clasen has been taking pictures for Colorado, USA street paper the Denver VOICE for about 15 years. Here, he discusses his approach to photographing vulnerable subjects, and how the opportunity to work with the street paper gave him purpose when a Traumatic Brain Injury left him unable to work. INSP: When did you become interested in practicing photography, and when did you want to pursue it further as work and as an art form? GILES CLASEN: I became interested in photography when I was in high school. Back then my family didn’t have a lot of money and I asked my mother for a camera for Christmas. I don’t know how she did it, but somehow she scraped together about $400 to buy me a Canon single lens reflex camera. I always worked a part-time job to pay for my film and I was hooked from then on. In college, I developed my skill further. But it wasn’t until I began working with homeless families that I realized the real storytelling power of photography. Were you aware of street papers before you began working with the Denver VOICE? I was. I studied journalism in college and one of my textbooks mentioned street papers. I have always had the drive to fight for social justice. I believe journalism can change public perception on issues. When I read about street papers I remember thinking, “That. I want to do that.” I sent an email to the Denver VOICE in 2007 or 2008 asking to contribute. I remember being really nervous and excited. I was thrilled when they gave me a chance. At the time I was recovering from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and unable to work. I was near homeless, living on the food donated to me by my church and paying rent with help from my family. When Tim Covi, then an editor with the Denver VOICE, gave me a chance to write and take photos, it gave me purpose at a point in my life when I wasn’t sure I had any future. The TBI impacted many aspects of my life. I continue to experience severe pain and have double vision today. I can’t actually tell if my photos are any good until I see them on a giant screen. In 2008, less than a year after the injury, it was all much more severe. I wasn’t sure if I would ever return to work. I wasn’t sure what life would be like for me moving forward. Tim took a risk on me, and I will forever be grateful. It was hard to write and take photos with such limited vision. But working for the Denver VOICE, working with Tim, showed me I could still do some great things. It was both a fulfillment of a college goal and to some degree a lifesaving venture for me. I only have what I have today because of the street paper. Every job I have worked since has been in part because of what the Denver VOICE has given me. CREDIT: XXXX Elisabeth, our current editor, took over four years ago and built off of our previous success. She pushed me early on in her tenure to write and develop my own articles rather than taking photos to accompany other writers’ articles. Her push and encouragement changed me and my work in profound ways. I wouldn’t have felt so bold to tell the stories I am telling today without her efforts. Do you have any key principles generally when taking photos? My driving principle is to get permission from the subject and be transparent in how I plan to use the images. I understand that in the United States photographers have a right to take photos in public spaces. There is a rich history of street photography documenting the public space. For individuals experiencing homelessness, their private spaces are public. We must respect and honor this. I don’t care how much good you intend on doing in documenting unhoused communities. If you start out by secretly taking a photo, or taking a photo without permission, then you aren’t on solid footing. When working with people who may be vulnerable or from marginalized backgrounds, do you alter the way your work in any way to accommodate them? Yes. I always ask for permission, and I always show the photo to the individual before publication to make sure they are comfortable with the image. I also try to document truthfully but I don’t really know what that is beyond the abstract idea. The lens is not objective and the choices I make can sensationalize or humanize and sometimes it does both. The final goal is to force the viewer to feel something about the subject. I don’t know if it always works. One responsibility of street papers is to impact public perception of people on the fringes of society. How do you think good photos play into that? I think when the photographer spends time with the subject and truly cares about the subject there is a different image you get to present. It is important to take risks as an artist and to get to know the community. I want to see Denver in the way those experiencing homelessness see Denver. I want to show what the cold does to a person, what a hot summer day does to a person. I want to show the impact of public policy in personal ways. I think when you take risks to get to know and care for individuals living outside what is considered normal you begin to see a different world – one of survival and love. This is what I try to show to people. I try to show the real-life circumstances that go unseen and are taken for granted. Is there a particular photo or story that you’ve worked on as a photographer that has had a significant effect on you? Every story I work on impacts me. I actually think of my life in the time periods of doing different stories. July of 2022 was this story; August 2023 was that story. There have been a few that really hit home. My story on the impact of COVID-19 on a specific region of the Navajo community in Arizona altered me. I joined the board of the non-profit I covered and continue to work to help that community. The story I did in 2022 on individuals living in campers on the streets of Denver impacted me. I continue to document those communities and be a part of those communities. I am about to publish a story on a BIPOC Roller Derby training squad in Denver – and I can’t begin to express how that story has changed the trajectory of my life. I guess some people look to meditation or self-help books for improvement. I find communities I want to document and dig into learning, changing, and growing as part of the process. These stories change the way I see and act in the world. How could I not change after someone struggling with a heroin addiction opens up to me? When someone is generous enough to share their story with me, I have to be generous enough to listen and care. Caring changes everything. ■ Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers April 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE BIPOC ROLLER DERBY: MEMBERS OF COLORADO SHINERS SEEK TO INFLUENCE CONVERSATION ABOUT EQUALITY BY GILES CLASEN THERE WAS A LOT OF EXCITEMENT when registration for the 2023 BIPOC Bowl roller derby tournament was announced. The BIPOC Bowl, which takes place April 15 and 16, is a Denver-based roller derby tournament exclusively for skaters of color to join together and compete against one another. Demand to participate was so high, it was a scramble for skaters from all around the world to snag a highly coveted roster spot. While other roller derby tournaments experienced a slow restart following the pandemic, the BIPOC Bowl, which is in its second year, filled all its skating spots in less than eight hours. “There’s nothing else like it,” said BIPOC Bowl founder, Samantha Mack, who goes by her derby name Jams Bond, or, just Jams. “There is not another opportunity on the planet where people of color can skate with other people of color like this.” Like wrestling names, derby names are both theatrical and revealing about a player. Some names focus on a player’s skating style, others evoke personality traits. All are designed to highlight the individual in a team sport. The BIPOC Bowl grew out of Jams’ other BIPOC-specific derby venture, the Colorado Shiners, which Abena WatsonSiriboe helped found. Watson-Siriboe uses the derby name Norah P Neffrin, which is generally shortened to Norm. CREATING A SAFE HAVEN Norm and Jams are both trainers with the Colorado Shiners, a team that is dedicated to introducing the Denver BIPOC community to roller derby and eliminating barriers to participation. BIPOC is an inclusive designation meaning Black Indigenous and People of Color intentionally avoiding victim-centered language like “marginalized,” or “minority.” “Roller derby is a very white sport,” Norm said. “Throughout my 13 years, I’ve run into other skaters of color, and we kikied whenever we saw each other because we realized just how rare that was.” JAMS BOND PERFORMS AN APEX JUMP AT ROLLERCON IN JULY 2022. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 6 DENVER VOICE April 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE MELODY “WAIKIKI WARRIOR” SANTIAGO WAIKIKI TRAINS AS A BLOCKER AT THE COLORADO SHINERS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN It can cost $500 or more to begin skating in roller derby, and the Shiners have found ways to reduce or eliminate these costs to individuals who aren’t yet sure about roller derby. Case in point, Jams has secured sponsorships with skating brand Triple 8 NYC, to provide pads to new skaters, and also with the Denver Skates Shop, to help new skaters secure skates. The Shiners also seek to address more than the financial barriers to participating in roller derby. “Being together and celebrating skating is tremendous,” Tammy, ‘Queen of Hertz,’ or ‘Q,’ said. “I look forward to Friday nights because I just get to be me.” Q asked that her last name not be used for privacy reasons. According to Q, learning about the BIPOC training team opened the door for her to participate in roller derby. “Through the Shiners, I know I have people who are on my side, who have my back, and who understand,” Q said. “Not everybody understands what people of color go through on a daily basis.” Q had never skated in roller derby before joining the Shiners. She had roller skated in middle school and rollerbladed as an adult, but when she first attempted derby, she didn’t have the skills to make it around the track without falling, let alone play roller derby. “I pretty much hugged the wall the entire first night, but I was so excited and thrilled just to be there and watching everyone else. The practice was just really inspiring,” Q said. Jams and Norm both said the Shiners team is special because it is one of the few places the BIPOC community can go without worrying about stereotypes, microaggressions, or worse. Friday night at the Rollerdome in Denver is always a night when they feel they get to be their true selves. BUILDING EACH OTHER UP Roller derby can be intimidating. The rules are unlike any other sport. There isn’t a ball to throw or catch, and it can be difficult for those watching it for the first time to understand the game. The sport looks like a mix between Olympic speed skating and a rugby scrum. Roller derby is simultaneously artistic movement and brute force. Although the game is played on wheels, the players are on their toe brakes and in the air as frequently as when they roll across the arena floor on all eight wheels. Gameplay involves one jammer and four blockers from each team on the track. The skaters move counterclockwise around the track, and jammers can score points by lapping each blocker. It takes a lot of strategy, teamwork, and deft footwork to build a winning team, and it can take months, or even years, ELIZABETH “BLAZIN” MCCUNE WAITS FOR SHINER PRACTICE TO BEGIN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN to master the nuance of the sport. While other Denver roller derby leagues train new players, none offer the one-on-one coaching that the Shiners do. Jams directs each practice, but rather than stick with a concrete plan, she likes to build the practice around the individuals who show up each night. Some nights, both high-level and low-level skaters arrive, and Jams plans those practices on the fly to meet both skater type’s needs. Jams’ name is a play on the Derby position jammer, which Jams excels at. She recently won the tournament MVP at the Louisiana-based Y’allstars Southern Skate Showdown. At nearly 6 feet tall, Jams has the unique ability as a jammer to skate with power, speed, and agility. She brings this experience and knowledge to every Shiners’ practice, helping other skaters advance in their skill level. Norm is a powerful blocker, who often takes on two opposing skaters at once. She coaches other skaters on gaining leverage and adjusting their positioning to effectively stop opposing jammers and break up opposing defenses. Q started skating in April of 2022 and has made impressive progress quickly. She is learning the rules of derby while training with the Shiners and two other Denver leagues. The combination of her dedication, and frequent one-on-one training from Jams and Norm, has helped Q go from barely being able to stay upright to skating backward, developing derby-level footwork, and learning to play as a blocker. She even is learning to referee derby events, which she believes will help her develop a deeper understanding of the sport. Q is hoping to play in the BIPOC Bowl, but that will depend on whether she recovers in time from a recent injury. THE SHINERS WAIT FOR PRACTICE TO BEGIN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN According to Q, her rapid development as a derby skater wouldn’t have been possible without the safety and camaraderie she experiences in the Shiners’ practices. Q said that it is impossible for a white individual to understand the presence of racism a person of color experiences in everyday life. For example, when she eats at any restaurant, regardless of the cuisine, it isn’t unusual to have another patron assume that because Q is Asian, she is part of the wait staff. It also is common for white people to tell her she speaks great English, even when she tells them she was born in the United States. Some don’t believe her name is Tammy and demand to know her REAL name, a name that sounds more Asian. Jams hopes the Shiners can continue to provide support to its members, whether in or out of the roller derby arena. “This is a space for people who recognize and understand who I am because they have my shared experience,” Jams said. “This is a space where you can be vulnerable with other people of color and Black folks.” Continued on page 8 April 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE NATALIE “KILLIFORNIA” DAVIDSON WAITS TO BE BANDAGED BY MEDICS AT THE 2021 BIPOC BOWL. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Continued from page 7 IN SEARCH OF GENUINE INCLUSIVITY Because the roller derby community seeks to be inclusive, it is common to see Pride flags and Black Lives Matter flags hanging in roller derby arenas. It also is not unusual to see skaters wearing stickers on their helmets that designate their preferred pronouns. Despite the surface acceptance, when it comes to the BIPOC community, the roller derby world has encountered recent missteps The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, one of the sport’s governing bodies, had to issue new guidelines on diversity, equity, and inclusion following the 2019 East Coast Derby Extravaganza in Feasterville, PA, which was hosted by Philly roller derby. Typically, officials calling bouts identify a player who has committed a penalty by referencing that player’s number and uniform color. During the event in Feasterville, however, officials misidentified and confused skaters of color with one another. Philly Roller Derby said in an apology posted to Facebook that officials also identified those who had committed penalties by the player’s skin color rather than by uniform color. In their apology, Philly Roller Derby said, “These mistakes were not made in an attempt to cause harm, but these subconscious errors reveal a harmful systemic problem that we need to consciously address.” These types of microaggressions and racist practices create long-lasting wounds in the BIPOC community and can’t be repaired easily. WFTDA lead a series of DEI workshops available via Zoom and issued a new series of inclusivity guidelines for all leagues. Jams said she does not believe there is a genuine effort to allow the BIPOC community to participate fully in roller derby, which is why she said she has worked hard to create the Shiners, the BIPOC Bowl, and provide deeper knowledge of the issue. At Rollercon 2022, which is one of the largest roller derby events in the world, held in Las Vegas each year, Jams taught a class on how to make leagues more just for all participants and more inclusive for BIPOC skaters. While the class was open to everyone, only BIPOC skaters attended. But, Jams’ effort goes beyond seeking equal treatment on the track. “We want to be a part of the Denver community,” Jams said. “The Shiners is a place for Denver’s BIPOC community to come together and be in the community sharing our experiences and making space [for each other].” Norm hopes the Shiners and the BIPOC Bowl will help force change, outside of the small world of roller derby. “You come across people who are true allies, but then, you also have people who are in their journeys learning about these issues we raise,” Norm said. “I think derby really is a STEPHANIE “COSMO” KRAMER SKATES AS THE JAMMER AT THE 2021 BIPOC BOWL. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN JAMS SITS WITH OTHER SKATERS WAITING FOR THEIR NEXT CHANCE TO SKATE AT ROLLERCON IN JULY, 2022. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Q AND NORM PRACTICE BLOCKING AND LEARNING TO USE LEVERAGE TO MOVE OTHER SKATERS AROUND THE TRACK. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 8 DENVER VOICE April 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE SKATERS WORK ON CHANGING POSITIONS DURING SHINERS’ PRACTICE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Q WORKS ON HER TURNS WITH GUIDANCE FROM NORM AT A SHINERS’ PRACTICE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN microcosm of the real world, both good and bad. We just happened to be throwing our bodies at each other.” For Q, the BIPOC Bowl has already changed her life. Last year’s tournament inspired her to dedicate herself to roller derby. “The BIPOC Bowl was my first experience at a tournament,” Q said. “I volunteered because I wasn’t skateready. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. After that weekend I was like, ‘this is what I wanted to do. I want to play roller derby.’” ■ NORM FIGHTS OFF TWO DEFENDERS AT THE DENVER-BASED DERBY TO THE NINES TOURNAMENT IN DECEMBER 2022. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN April 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY HIDDEN HOMELESSNESS AMONG OLDER WOMEN BY SOPHIE QUICK WHEN GEORGINA* MOVED from her family home in Melbourne to Sydney, aged 19, she saw homelessness on the streets for the first time. There were people sleeping rough at Central Station. “It was an eye-opener to me,” she says. “I’d lived a sheltered life. I’d never seen it before. I didn’t know such a thing existed.” That was a long time ago. Now Georgina is 78 and she’s experiencing homelessness herself. “My story is hard to explain but it’s not unique,” she says. “People think it’s one thing in life, one big event, that brings you down. But it’s not always that simple. It’s the combination of things.” In Georgina’s case, and in the case of many older women living with housing insecurity, it’s also how these things compound over time. Older women are bearing the brunt of Australia’s escalating housing crisis. It’s been happening for years. Women aged 55 and over were the fastest-growing cohort of people experiencing homelessness in Australia between 2011 and 2016, increasing by 31%, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. By 2030, it’s predicted that 15,000 Australian women over 55 will be without a home. It’s a problem that hasn’t always been well understood. Older women tend to use different strategies than younger people, and men, to cope with housing insecurity. They are less likely to sleep rough. They’re more likely to live in cars, couch surf, or sleep in improvised dwellings on other people’s property. This means they’re less visible – “the hidden homeless”. Crisis and community housing services say many women seeking emergency housing in their fifties or sixties have stable housing histories. Many are seeking support for the first time in their lives. That’s Maria’s* situation. She’s worked full-time for her entire adult life. At one point, she ran her own business. But she couldn’t find any place to rent in Adelaide in 2022. “I was getting knocked back everywhere, even though I had good rental references, a good credit background. Demand just doesn’t meet supply… One day I woke up and I realized, ‘Oh my god, I’m homeless. I’m a statistic,’” she says. It was Maria’s first housing crisis, but it wasn’t her first life crisis. Many years earlier, she moved across the country to escape her violent husband. The experience took its toll, including financially, but she’d managed to get back on her feet and married again in her late forties. In 2019, Maria was living in Alice Springs, working as the office manager for her second husband’s business. But he became terminally ill and they had to move to Adelaide for medical care. “I was his full-time carer until he passed,” Maria says. “I’ve struggled with mental health on and off, especially depression. It was a dark time that led to an even darker time.” Money from the sale of the house in Alice Springs went to her husband’s children. Maria inherited her husband’s super, but that didn’t last long. She used it to pay rent and was struggling to find a job while grieving. She’d already been through most of her own savings while her husband was sick. “About seven months after he passed, I was told there was going to be a rent increase. I was scrambling to find a job but now there was a big gap in my résumé. I was scrambling to find a home for my two German shepherds, too, because nobody wants a tenant with dogs.” Maria couldn’t even get a rental without the dogs. “I found a beautiful new home for them, thank God. In the end, I just couldn’t find anywhere for myself and I fell into a total black hole of depression.” This was the breaking point for Maria. She ended up at s short-stay mental health unit. And after several other short stays, she was able to stabilize her medication and find her ILLUSTRATION BY LUCI EVERETT 10 DENVER VOICE April 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY PAGE TITLE way to Catherine House, an accommodation and support service for women experiencing homelessness. “If I can do anything to break down the stereotypes of, ‘Oh well, they’re too busy drinking,’ or, ‘They’re too lazy to get up and work,’ then that’s what I want to do,” she says. “It isn’t as simple as finding a job and finding a new place to live. It just isn’t.” Family violence, mental health issues, caring responsibilities, and housing supply and demand. As Georgina says, it’s not just one thing – it’s a combination. For Maria, taking time out of paid work to care for her husband was when her situation really began to slide. But what else was she supposed to do? Economists call the kind of unpaid work Maria was doing – unpaid caring for family members – “informal care work”. A 2020 Deloitte report estimated that the replacement cost of all the unpaid informal care work done in Australia per year would be $77.9 billion. Most of this work – at least 60% – is done by women. Unpaid childcare is, of course, a large part of this picture, too. In 2017 Price Waterhouse Cooper found that women undertake 72% of all unpaid work in Australia, including childcare and housework. With women doing so much unpaid labor and planning their paid work around their caring commitments, is it any wonder they’re not putting much money away for retirement? The median superannuation balance for men aged 60–64 years is $204,107, whereas, for women in the same age group, it is $146,900. Caring work has had an enormous impact on Georgina’s financial and housing situation. She had worked full-time in office jobs for many years when she became a single mother in her early forties. When Georgina’s child was young, her own mother became seriously ill. For 11 years, she was her carer. “She had an aneurysm, which is very painful, and she had heart problems. You name it, she had it,” says Georgina. “She needed 24-hour care. I was basically a nurse.” Georgina managed to do some casual and freelance work during those years, but it wasn’t possible – with both her daughter and mother as dependants – for her to do the kind of paid work you need to do to get ahead, to save money, or to pay for house maintenance. “Caring work isolates you,” she says. “It can really impact your life in a huge way. It’s very tiring. I became very depressed. I felt like a prisoner.” After her mother died, Georgina and her daughter moved around for years after that, sometimes staying in hotels – “crummy ones” – and in various unsuitable and expensive rentals. “My daughter and I both had health issues. If your child is sick and has to see a specialist – well, the money just evaporates.” Georgina, by this stage, had not been in steady, paid work for a long time. “I was getting on in years by then,” she says with a laugh. “One day, I looked in the mirror and said, ‘My god, who’s that?’” Georgina now lives in a place she calls a “short-term hotel”. The rent is much higher than her pension and she’s always behind with payments. There’s no heating, no cooling. The main problem, Georgina says, is that it’s dangerous. Some of the other tenants are frightening. Drug deals are happening all around. “It’s like somewhere you would squat,” she says. “Almost worse than being on the street. It’s like watching something fall on you. It’s coming down slowly, but it’s coming.” Unpaid caring responsibilities make it hard to get ahead, but family violence is the leading cause of homelessness for all women and children in Australia. Kylie from Ballina, in northern New South Wales, has the double whammy. She’s a single mother of four and a survivor of domestic abuse. She split up with her husband years ago, but the violence during their marriage set in motion a chain of effects that she still feels today. “I didn’t know what was happening with the violence until it was happening,” she says. “The insecurity that has come from it, all the stress – it was a shock. I’d always been a worker, always had stability, but I’ve been stressed for 22 years now.” Kylie was able to keep living in the family home, with protective orders against her husband, for a few years after they split up. Then the landlord decided to sell. “Rents had gone up so much. I found another place nearby, but then I was paying about $600 per week. With $1500 per fortnight income to care for your kids, it’s a nightmare.” Australia’s housing crisis is hitting the regions hard. The Northern Rivers region – famous for its scenic valleys and suburban beaches – is now notorious for skyrocketing property prices and rising rents that price people like Kylie out of their own hometowns. Worker migration from the cities during the pandemic hasn’t helped. “You go to house inspections and somebody’ll just sidle up to the agent and say, ‘I’ll pay six months up front and an extra $50 per week,’ and that just puts someone like me completely out of the picture.” Things came to a head in July 2021, when Kylie’s landlord decided to renovate. She’d been on the public housing waiting list at this point, she says, for more than 10 years. She couldn’t find anywhere else to go. Now in her fifties, with four kids in high school, Kylie had to move into temporary accommodation in Lismore. She lost valuables in the floods and was almost on the street when local community service Social Futures helped her secure a small, self-contained house in a caravan park in Alstonville. “It is just such a relief to have this place, and I’m so grateful, but I’m sleeping on the dining room floor and I’ll be there for a while, I think.” Kylie’s a creative person – she’s a trained ballerina, she’s written a children’s book and she’s also a singer. While Kylie’s in Alstonville, she’ll be working towards some goals. “I want to find a way to get back to Ballina,” she says. “The kids’ school’s there, they all have after-school jobs there, and my elderly mum’s there. One day I’d love to get back to doing some gigs again, too.” That’s not a lot to ask. ■ *Names have been changed. ILLUSTRATION BY LUCI EVERETT Courtesy of The Big Issue Australia / International Network of Street Papers VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org April 2023 DENVER VOICE 11 DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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.

IN YOUR OWN WORDS PEACE IS HARD TO COME BY BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR WHEN I THINK ABOUT SUCCESS IN HOMELESSNESS BY ZAKKAYIAH BROOKS, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA REAL PEACE IS SO HARD TO COME BY. People chase it all the time, and most will never find it fully. We let people control our minds by saying mean things. They may have hurt you so deeply, And you keep playing it your head, over and over again. You can’t let it go. You may have been wronged by family or a close friend. We, as people today, have trouble speaking up or just walking away. Today, everyone wants to be right all the time. I don’t understand why people keep letting others rent space in your head, And guess what? They don’t pay you any rent money to be staying in your head! If someone hurt you, or said hurtful things, LET IT GO! Why do we allow things to keep our mind running full speed and not in a good way? Until you stop giving your power to others, you will not find peace. Love yourself enough to stop letting others define who you are. Care enough to walk away from people who really want you to be in pain. People who are broken will hurt even more people. The old saying is so true, Misery loves company. So don’t fall for it, or in time, you will become someone who will hurt others. Stop hurting yourself. Eat and go to bed at the same time every day. Do something special weekly to help yourself unwind. Find what makes you happy, and remember, only you have the power to make your life as peaceful as you want it, or you can allow your life to be in turmoil. Peace, real peace, is hard to get, but if you are lucky enough to find it, hold on tight to it. Don’t let go, or start to allow others to take your happiness. Always keep your peace of mind. You are worth it, Self! ■ ZAKKAYIAH BROOKS. CREDIT: ANTHONY CORNEJO WHEN I THINK ABOUT SUCCESS, I think about dignity, pride, future, self-belief, [being] active, outgoing, openminded. When I think about homelessness, I think struggle, sad, depression, disappointed, let down, unfocused, disbelief. When I put the two words together, it’s success in homelessness. When I think about success in homelessness, I think about goal-making, putting the most important’s first, the needs first, not the wants Sacrifice the got to haves for the do withouts Success in homelessness means achievement, belief, prayer, God, get off your ass, making phone calls, getting resources, asking someone for help, taking a walk, talking to people, going into restaurants and putting in job applications going to day centers and using their computers P.S. All success in homelessness is because you achieved all of your needs instead of your wants to make it happen, to succeed I have come a long way, so I commend myself. Every day, I wake and go to work. I have worked hard enough to know these tactics work. ■ “BACK ON THE STREETS” BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Editor’s note: For our March issue, Denver VOICE vendor, Rea Brown, wrote a piece for this section called “Back on the Streets.” He wrote it in homage to Brian Augustine, who passed away in January. When he died, Augustine was writing a monthly column about what it was like to return to living on the streets when he could no longer afford his rent. Brown intends to continue contributing, or to encourage other VOICE vendors to contribute something in honor of Brian Augustine’s legacy. IN LIGHT OF THE OVERWHELMING BLIGHT endured by so many who appear to have lost the fight or might. Burdened with the iron sky that rains fright, frost and die like a backpack that slacks, digs, and drags I. Glad tidings are wished by and bye but insurmountable mountain echoes it’s not worth the try. Under the heel of defeat on every side the eye sees amidst the dark abyss the likeness of a firefly that glows bolder as it draws closer to all alive surprise A stranger with strange behavior as if they wish to be your savior but under the circumstances can only do for you a favor with flavor they say, Sir may we offer you some pie. In other words, I use to wonder why people would eat when they got sad or depressed but the truth is I don’t know if it’s the fact that food is so hardwired into the human psyche that it can take your mind off your problems momentarily. Although I don’t believe it is good to over indulge it is my unprofessional opinion that homeless people could feel a lot better if they can enjoy a good meal in normal conditions sometimes. ■ 12 DENVER VOICE April 2023 EVENTS BAYAUD LAUNDRY TRUCK Bayaud Enterprises will be doing laundry for free outside of the Denver Central Library. Please arrive early as services are limited. The temperature must be at least 32 degrees for the truck to operate. WHEN: Apr 4, 11, 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Denver Public Library: Central Library; 10 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 INTRO TO IMPROV: DROP-IN CLASS Want to see if improv comedy is right for you? This drop-in class will let you take RISE Comedy’s improv classes for a test drive, in a safe, supportive, and fun environment! All levels are welcome. WHEN: Apr 6, 13, 20, and 27, 6 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. COST: $10 in advance; $11 at the door WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. INFO: risecomedy.com ACROSS WOMEN+FILM FESTIVAL Women+Film showcases documentaries, narratives, and short fi lms celebrating the best in women-centric programming, both by and about women. These thought-provoking stories from around the world are sure to inspire all audiences. WHEN: Apr 13 – Apr 16, times vary. COST: Both individual tickets and festival passes are available. WHERE: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave. INFO: denverfilm.org WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW: STAND-UP COMEDY What the World Needs Now is a bi-weekly comedy showcase featuring some of the city’s best comedians, as well as its rising stars. This FREE event occurs every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. WHEN: Apr 13 and 27, 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: First Draft Taproom & Kitchen, 1309 26th St. INFO: firstdraftdenver.com 1. Loud 7. Annoyance 13. Apple juice brand 14. Evoking strong feeling 16. Th ey hold your horses 17. Tackle or guard 18. Literally three 19. Give way, as to pedestrians 21. Smart-alecky 22. Paper covering the NYSE 23. Inc. relative 24. Game with matchsticks 25. Bucket of bolts 27. Spanish “Enough!” 29. ___ voom 30. Crew member 32. Scuffl es 34. Picnic pest 35. “Who, me?” 36. South American river in an Enya song title 40. Drooping 44. Rip apart 45. Th e fourth letter in “circle,” but not the fi rst 47. Final Four org. 48. World fi nance org. 49. Center X or O 50. Sixth sense, for short 51. Standard 53. Attack ad, maybe 55. Confront 56. Band follower 58. Salon treatment 60. “Evil Ways” band 61. Muffl es 62. Unsaturated alcohol (anagram of OSTLER) 63. Least ingenuous DOWN 1. Shrinking Asian lake 2. Glass cover on a Sylvia Plath novel 3. Response to “Shall we?” 4. Had a meal 5. One of the titular Gilmore girls 6. Greek letter 7. Patsy Walker’s comics alter ego 8. In the center of 9. Prince, to a king 10. Fret 11. In-between 12. Slippery 13. “Tommy” rockers 15. Colonic treatments 20. “A Nightmare on ___ Street” 26. Mind your ___ q’s 27. “Obvi!” 28. Poison plant 29. Churchill’s gesture 31. 6 on a phone 33. Saturate, in dialect 36. Rubber gaskets 37. Shark-riding fi sh 38. Ahead (of) 39. Breakfast staple 40. External memory holders for digital cameras 41. Mountain climbing tools 42. In the beginning stages 43. Rubberneckers 46. Carly ___ Jepsen 52. Setting you might turn on and off throughout a videoconference 53. ___-Japanese War 54. Fishing rod attachment 55. Grow dim 57. Golfer’s goal 59. Set (down) MOVIE CLUB Come on out every last Saturday for a movie, snacks, and a brief Q&A segment. WHEN: Apr 29, 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library, 1498 N. Irving St. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events April 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Bank of America Charitable Foundation Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Warren and Betty Kuehner Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 Margaret Ramp John Gibson Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois James and Cyndi Lesslie 14 DENVER VOICE April 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center TGTHR (FKA ATTENTION HOMES) Shelter: 303-447-1207, 3080 Broadway, Boulder. Open every day, 12:30-5pm, for anyone ages 12-24. Office: 303-447-1206. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 tgthr.org URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center April 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

D E N V E R T V S O I A C F E A F 2 E U N B M D 2 G R METLO ROOFTOP 1111 N Broadway Denver, CO 80203 SUNDAY, MAY 7 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. A A , N I 7 JOIN THE DENVER VOICE FOR OUR ANNUAL RISE & THRIVE BREAKFAST! This event, put together by some of Denver’s best breakfast and brunch locations, helps raise awareness and funds for our programs and services. Together, we can give those experiencing homelessness and poverty the opportunity to earn a dignifi ed income. I S Y RSVP BY MAY 1 denvervoice.org/rise-and-thrive R 0 K 3

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE VENDING WITH RAELENE PAGE 3 CHARTING A NEW COURSE ‘WHEN YOU T Y SOMEONE’S ABILITY TO GET A JOB THERE IS NO CHOICE.’ PAGE 6 ‘ S HEALTHCARE ON THE STREETS SERVING AS A FREE CLINIC, THIS VAN IS A STATE-OF-THEART MEDICAL FACILITY. PAGE 8 AN AMERICAN TRAGEDY ISRAEL BAYER RECOUNTS TIMES HIS WORK WITH INSP HAS INTERSECTED WITH TRAGIC STORIES OF DEATH ON THE STREETS. PAGE 10 ETHICAL DILEMMA U.S. PLANS INVOLUNTARY TREATMENT TO TARGET HOMELESSNESS, MENTAL ILLNESS, AND ADDICTION. PAGE 11 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MARCH 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 3 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE DENVER VOICE VENDOR Jerry Rosen was visiting family outside of ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR Colorado when we published our January issue. Because he was traveling, he wasn’t around to answer our Ask a Vendor for that month, which was when vendors shared stories of their favorite jobs. So, for our March issue, I asked Jerry what he’d like our “Ask a Vendor” question to be, and he suggested we ask vendors about their hobbies. Since coming to work for the VOICE, I’ve had to confront my biases towards individuals experiencing homelessness. I know folks who read and support the Denver VOICE are aware of common assumptions people hold about the unhoused. But some of us don’t realize that like any other members of society, those experiencing homelessness are individuals with their own memories, dreams, and pastimes. Many have jobs they go to each day. They also have unique hobbies, just like the rest of us, which is why I’m glad Jerry suggested this month’s question. When driving past a gated community, it’s easy to make general assumptions about the people living behind the guarded gates, just like it is when driving past tent cities or queues of people waiting for their turn to get a meal or secure a shelter bed for the night. I always appreciate when vendors come up with the question for Ask a Vendor because it gives them a chance to talk about themselves and share those things that interest them, concern them, or bring them joy. It also is a reminder that many of us may have been born into better circumstances, but we are no better than and not-so-different from those experiencing housing instability. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTOR 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. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Breez Giles Clasen Connie Gaitan 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 Lando Allen Rea Brown Giles Clasen David Gordon Stephanie Rogers Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Albert Bland Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Jennifer Seybold Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 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 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. OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE March 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US PROGRAM UPDATE VENDING WITH RAELENE BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN AS THE PROGRAM COORDINATOR for the Denver VOICE, Connie Gaitan spends her days greeting vendors, distributing papers and any Venmo payments vendors haven’t picked up, and checking in with vendors that haven’t been by the office in a while. When vendors are looking for services related to mental or physical health, food, shelter, or other critical resources, Gaitan connects them to providers who can help. Gaitan loves her work and interacting with vendors who stop by, but as she was stepping into her role as program coordinator, Gaitan expressed how important it was to spend time with vendors while they were out vending the VOICE. Gaitan participated in her first “vending adventure,” when she accompanied Denver VOICE Vendor Raelene Johnson on a recent visit to Downtown Denver. “I didn’t realize how much of an impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on the 16th Street Mall,” said Gaitan. “So many businesses have closed, and the Mall is now pretty deserted.” Johnson also commented on how different foot traffic on PHOTOS: CONNIE GAITAN the 16th Street Mall is compared to the last time she vended downtown. “I was shocked at how empty it was,” Johnson said. “The last time I was down here was for the Big Sell* in February 2020, but now, it’s really depressing.” While Johnson expressed disappointment in seeing how little traffic there was along the 16th Street Mall, she enjoyed interacting with those she saw while she and Gaitan were out. “There were some kids visiting from Canada, who wanted to hear my story, so I told them about my years of being addicted to drugs while sleeping under a bridge in Boulder, Colo,” said Johnson. “They wanted to know more about street papers and bought a paper from me to take back home.” According to Gaitan, Johnson also spoke to a man who overheard her on the 16th Street MallRide talking about the VOICE and was inspired by her story. “The man explained that he was a neuroscientist and was interested in learning more about Raelene, the Denver VOICE program, and finding out how he could contribute to the organization,” said Gaitan. Gaitan also said she looks forward to the next time she can join Denver VOICE vendors when they vend the paper. Johnson said she appreciated Gaitan’s interest in the vendors’ work. “It means a lot to the vendors to have support from Denver VOICE staff,” said Johnson. “Connie does good such great work at the office, but it’s nice to have her out there seeing what it’s like for us,” she said. “If any of our readers or supporters would like to experience what it’s like to vend the paper, they should call the VOICE office, and we can set something up.” ■ The Big Sell is an event held in different cities with street papers, where local celebrities, business owners, and community leaders team up with vendors to experience firsthand what it’s like to vend street papers. The VOICE has not participated in the Big Sell since 2020 but plans to participate in 2024. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. March 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

SPRING WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables END-OF-WINTER DONATIONS MADE EASY During the winter, Denver VOICE vendors experience increased heating and housing costs. Meanwhile, their income decreases because cold temperatures means less foot traffic and fewer paper sales. If you would like to help out your vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. @DenverVOICE 4 DENVER VOICE March 2023 LANDO ALLEN I would love to finish working on my music and get my art going more. Then, I’d start to work on building a houseboat and a motorbike. DAVID GORDON I have a lot of interests in many things, but I would say sports is my main hobby. I participated in sports many years ago, but at this stage of my life, I am passionately following basketball, keeping up with team rosters, standings, and players, as well as watching game recaps for most of the games. STEPHANIE ROGERS I love crafting and creating art. I’m huge on building computer systems, and I love cooking barbeque and swimming and jet skiing. JERRY ROSEN A hobby can be different for each individual. One of my hobbies is traveling to different places – seeing my relatives and other people I know. I also like to read science books about different aspects of space, and I like to help people, also. A REA BROWN My favorite hobby is scribbling sloppy on the walls at a friend’s house while they’re preparing for a children’s party or sticking smiley stickers on skull-covered Harleys buying spray paint and showing the world I’m arty going to an all you can eat restaurant and leaving just as hearty running a yellow light and handicap parking falling asleep in a movie when it’s just starting being told “you have to go, this place is closing” refusing to leave refusing to be frozen I’m joking, leaving coming back when it’s open hoping nobody dies in the bathroom smoking just coping, yea that’s my hobby JUST COPING, along with laughing at some spoken word, spoken. But truthfully, I mean honestly. with a straight face without a grin that you can see My favorite hobby is counting money but it’s been hard to sleep that comfortably on the streets around junkies but if you would like to support my hobby, feel free to VENMO me today before 11 and don’t forget to add the tag in the comment section VENDOR REA BROWN 657 ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S ASK A VENDOR CAME FROM DENVER VOICE VENDOR JERRY ROSEN. What are your hobbies? Q March 2023 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CHARTING A NEW COURSE BY GILES CLASEN PAUL IS A MAN WHO CAN’T ESCAPE HIS PAST, even as he pushes to move forward and climb out of homelessness. “I’ve got a lot of regrets,” Paul said. “You know, going back, looking back doesn’t do you any good. You got to keep on keeping on, but it isn’t easy when those regrets of your past keep getting in the way of any possible future.” The mistakes that keep him trapped and without options are two felony convictions. These limit his opportunities to find a job and housing. Paul said the first strike against him was because of alcohol. He started drinking at a young age, and his habit grew slowly, becoming a problem before he realized what was happening. He joined the Army in 1984, right out of high school and worked his way up the ranks. He joined the Special Forces at the beginning of the Gulf War in 1990, and he didn’t like what he saw in the United States, once he was deployed. “The United States runs around the world claiming to do good, but I saw it. I saw us imposing our will on other countries,” Paul said. “We’re actually the terrorists of the world, in a lot of ways. We’re going around the world taking CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 6 DENVER VOICE March 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE what we want and not caring about the costs on other people.” By the time Paul returned to Fort Bragg in North Carolina, he was drinking more, and he got a DUI. “They took my security clearance right away. I had a top secret they pulled because they can’t trust a drunk. I don’t blame them for that,” Paul said. He left the military because he felt his career in the Army was over. Not long after, Paul and his wife split. They were fighting constantly and Paul felt isolated, away from his family in Los Angeles. “My wife and I were arguing so much. I just said, ‘I’m taking off.’ I had to leave my wife, or things were going to get much, much worse, real bad for all of us. I didn’t want my little children seeing that.” Paul moved to Denver to live with family. At this point, Paul believes he had become a full-blown alcoholic. He was arrested after an altercation for felony menacing and attempted assault. According to Paul, he threatened someone in an altercation to defend himself. He didn’t touch or take a swing and walked away. But the threat was all that mattered. Those few words were seen as acts of violence by the court. He spent three years in jail and on parole. During that time, he gave up alcohol and tried to chart a new course. He said he didn’t have any troubles during those three years, but the damage was done and he had two felonies on his record. “Bam! They put a black cloud over me. I tried to find a decent job, I tried to pay my own way,” Paul said. “I wanted to work hard, but nobody would hire me after that. Nobody would give me a chance. I was living in a whole new world where every door was shut to me with those felony convictions.” Paul said his new reality had little to no opportunities and ultimately condemned him to the streets. The felonies have prevented him from finding a job. No one would hire him. The felonies also have prevented him from finding housing. No one wanted to take a risk renting to a person who had been convicted of a violent crime. “My only option is Section 8 and government support. When you take away someone’s ability to get a job there is no choice. The government has to pay to support them, to house them, and to feed them,” Paul said. Paul would like to go back to work and create purpose for himself. He doesn’t like the idle time on the streets. He doesn’t like having frostbitten toes in the winter and facing heat stroke in the summer. He would like a home with walls and a roof to replace his makeshift tent. But he is running out of hope. “I’m healthy,” Paul said. “I’m 57 years old. I can work if someone would give me a chance and give me a job. But that felony, I don’t know. I don’t know if I’ll be stuck here the rest of my life.” ■ MARCH MADNESS BRACKET CHALLENGE 1ST PLACE - $500 2ND PLACE - $250 3RD PLACE - $100 $25 PER ENTRY SCAN HERE TO ENTER! CONTACT JAMES@DENVERVOICE.ORG FOR QUESTIONS CREDIT: GILES CLASEN March 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

INTERNATIONAL STORY “SOME PEOPLE JUST WANT TO HAVE A CHAT,” SAYS DR HARRISON, “AND THAT LEADS US TO GIVING THEM A TREATMENT.”PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS MEDICS ON WHEELS: PROVIDING HEALTHCARE TO PEOPLE ON THE STREETS BY DANIEL NOUR BLACKTOWN IS TEEMING WITH PHARMACIES, GP clinics, medical centers, and all the requisite facilities of health care. On Blacktown Road, they’re hard to miss, and just two minutes away stands Blacktown Hospital, a major in-patient care facility of Sydney’s western suburbs. But on this cold Saturday, it’s not the town center but Blacktown’s Alpha Park that plays host to a mobile medical service for people experiencing life on the margins. A van serves as a free clinic, with a row of folding chairs in its waiting room. Needles, vaccines, dressings, electrocardiography, ultrasound machines, cannulas, and all manner of medications, including antibiotics, penicillin, blood thinners, and other prescriptions, line the walls of the van. This is not some no-frills sick bay for casual care; this is a state-of-the-art, fully equipped medical facility that happens to be parked next to a tennis court. The brainchild of 27-year-old Dr. Daniel Nour, the 2022 Young Australian of the Year (who, providentially, shares my name), Street Side Medics is here to support anyone needing medical care and health advice. Rose, a Mauritian woman in her sixties, with a wide smile and a calm voice, has just had a consultation. “I have high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol,” she said. “The quality of care here is top. Everyone is welcome and they see everyone the same. Here you are welcomed with a smile like a family and, before they give you medication, they check what is going on first and ask about your story.” This van is one of two – with a third on the way – that services communities in Blacktown, Parramatta, Manly, Woolloomooloo, Surry Hills, Hornsby, and, shortly, Wollongong. The beauty of being on wheels meant a van could also be sent to Lismore to assist during the flood crisis. “When I looked at all the different challenges [in Sydney] the solution I thought of was…taking the service to them, removing as many barriers as we can,” said Dr. Nour, who launched the service in 2020. The idea was planted a year earlier when, walking home after his shift at Imperial College London’s School of Medicine, he stopped to help a man having a seizure. When he asked one of the man’s friends why he hadn’t sought medical care earlier, she explained he would “never be taken seriously” in a hospital, because he was homeless. “That really slapped me in the face,” he said. “The [Australian] healthcare system is one of the best in the world... Our system is, however, under some stress and is tailored to the majority of our population. It is not tailored to minority populations. This includes the homeless population.” Street Side Medics overcomes these barriers to access by taking its vans to the people themselves, working with existing community organizations. Here today, One Meal is loading up plates as well as offering fruit and other items, including blankets and teddy bears for children. They’re staffed by volunteers, young and old, and from all ethnicities. Other community groups, such as the Hare Krishna movement, have also set up food stalls in the park. It’s a system that works for Rose. “I come here every Saturday, and [the first time] I came for the food service,” she said. “It’s good because when you go to the medical center you have to wait, but here you can have quick service.” The vans are run by two teams of volunteers. Outside the van, a social worker and other health professionals approach people about their health concerns. Inside the van, a GP and a nurse wait to see the patients. “What we do outside the van, talking to people, is just as important as what we do inside,” said David Ballhausen, Street Side Medics CEO. “What the doctors love is that they can take their time. Nobody is counting the minutes.” Today, he is particularly worried about a young woman with a recurring health issue, who’s here with her partner. “She had some serious blood results but as she has some addiction issues, now is not a good time,” he said hurriedly. “With situations like that, you don’t give up, so I’ve offered to pick them up or, as an alternative, to come to our clinic in 8 DENVER VOICE March 2023 INTERNATIONAL STORY PAGE TITLE Parramatta tomorrow night. [I said to him], ‘Come on down man, we need to see your partner.’” It’s the precarity of people’s living situations that makes ongoing care difficult, despite Street Side Medics’ informal, walk-in, “come as you are” approach. “People are couch surfing or living in temporary accommodation, and some have social housing,” Ballhausen said. You can sense his deeper frustration with the systemic challenges people experiencing homelessness face every day to access their most essential needs. Access to bulk billing, capacity for travel to medical clinics, the cost of specialist consults, documentation requirements, stigma, embarrassment, and a rigidly structured appointment system are just some of the roadblocks that the Street Side Medics team is trying so hard to veer around. “The assumption many of us carry around in our heads is DR HARRISON GARRETT, ROSE AND NURSE KAHLI SILVER. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS that primary health care is really accessible, and yet what we’re seeing is how it’s becoming harder and harder to get,” Ballhausen said. “So, you peer into communities, see where they are ready to gather, and say it’s free and no appointment required. You don’t need to tell us who you are let alone have a Medicare card.” Federal Health Minister Mark Butler recently acknowledged that “primary care is in its worst shape since Medicare began”, with basic health care becoming increasingly unaffordable, especially for those on low incomes or with complex conditions. According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, only 35% of specialist consultations were bulk billed in 2020-21, with less affluent people disproportionately affected by these fees. For Dr. Shanthini Seelan, who has been practicing for 25 NURSE KAHLI SILVER CHATS WITH ANTHONY. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS years, the visa status of some of her patients prohibits their access to Medicare. At her regular practice in the Sydney suburb of Toongabbie, five different languages are spoken and the clinic is focused on refugee health for Afghan, Sri Lankan, and Iranian arrivals. “I just saw a Sri Lankan refugee,” said Dr. Seelan. “He had a very swollen hand and he doesn’t have access to GPs. It was quite painful for him. “He’s been living here for 12 years. I’ve asked him to come and see me. In Western Sydney, we are very multicultural and we have wall-to-wall GPs that do pro bono care.” Like some of the other doctors who volunteer their time with Street Side medics, Dr. Seelan came across the service through news reports. “I read an article by Dr. Daniel and I was blown away. He is a visionary,” she said. “Dr. Daniel said that you start with sympathy, then empathy and then you go to compassion. Everyone here has the right to decent, safe health care,” she said in a rare moment of quiet between patients. “We don’t judge, and even if it’s a stop-gap or a bandaid ROSE CONSULTS WITH DR HARRISON IN THE VAN. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS solution, if it makes your life a little better, then that’s why we’re here. Our patients need someone in their corner who doesn’t judge and who gives them the help they need.” Looking around today, it’s clear that there is a sense of community. A young girl is playing on a swing, volunteers are laughing, pouring hot drinks, or serving up plates, and the patients themselves are unhurried, waiting near or around the van while eating or chatting. It’s a system that the Street Side team plans to roll out nationwide. “Within five years we’ll be in every capital city and every population center,” Dr. Ballhausen said. “We will demonstrate what is possible.” ■ Daniel Nour is an Egyptian Australian writer and journalist whose writing has been featured in the New York Times, SBS Voices, Meanjin Quarterly, and Eureka Street. In 2020, he won the New South Wales Premier’s Young Journalist of the Year Award. Courtesy of The Big Issue Australia / International Network of Street Papers SIENNA AND HER MOTHER, AYESHA. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS March 2023 DENVER VOICE 9 VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. DONATE YOUR CAR!

NATIONAL STORY DEATH ON THE STREETS: AN AMERICAN TRAGEDY BY ISRAEL BAYER IN THE WINTER OF 2017, Portland, Oregon was hit with an unusually long ice storm. It would be deadly for people experiencing homelessness. Four people would tragically die of exposure. An older woman would walk into a downtown parking garage and die an agonizing death alone in the unforgiving storm. Another victim froze to death at a bus stop, only blocks away from a family member’s home. The third and fourth victims died alone in the doorway of a local business and in a densely wooded area of the city. If that wasn’t enough, another homeless woman gave birth to a stillborn child in the freezing rain that dreadful week. After giving birth, presumably alone, the woman was found by police completely distraught and cradling her deceased child. She was homeless and experiencing a mental health collapse. It was more than devastating. A local reporter was interviewing me about the deaths. Did I know any of the victims that died? Has Portland ever seen anything like this? What was it really going to take to prevent these kinds of deaths on the streets in our community? Did I have thoughts…? My mind went blank. I didn’t have any answers. “Israel, are you there,” the reporter asked. “Yes, I’m here.” “Are you OK?” “Can I call you back?” “Absolutely, but I’m on deadline.” It’s hard to describe what homelessness does to the people experiencing it, their families, their friends, and the people working on the front lines of poverty. The trauma of homelessness is more than overwhelming. Reality is distorted. Logic is rare. Life is primal. There is nothing remotely rational about the circumstances of homelessness in, the USA, one of the richest countries in the world. Every time I wrote a story about someone who passed away on the streets, I would tell myself that the more stories like these are read, the more the public and/or government might want to take action to support housing justice in our community. Most days though, I wasn’t so sure. I had spent the better part of that week working on a story, including doing interviews with the family of one of the victims who had frozen to death on the streets. I was hoping to provide a snapshot of the harsh reality the families of people experiencing homelessness face when a loved one on the streets passes away and why we should be prioritizing more affordable housing in our community. Unfortunately, it was a story I had written before. At the last minute, the family decided they didn’t want the story of their father and husband to be told through the lens of a human being freezing to death homeless on the streets. While I was disappointed with the family’s decision to not talk to me on the record, I certainly couldn’t blame them. If I was honest with myself, I’m not sure I would have wanted a reporter presenting the legacy of my father or son through this lens either, regardless of how thoughtful the writer might have been. What a painful experience. Having worked on the streets for the previous two decades, the amount of trauma and death I had witnessed and reported on over the years had shaken me to the core. I had spent many sleepless nights at the bedsides of people on the streets that found themselves on the edge of death. Pneumonia. Heart attacks. Drug overdoses. Burn victims. Attempted deaths by 10 DENVER VOICE March 2023 know anything about depression. I didn’t know he was bipolar, then eventually paranoid schizophrenic. I found out about other mental disorders James was facing after I Googled all the medication found in his backpack after his death. There were voices in his head that wouldn’t leave him alone. Mental health and addiction took hold of his life and held him until his very last breath. Then, it was God that took him home.” “The average person doesn’t always know how to deal with addiction and mental disorders,” said Krista. “We feel stricken with fear for our suffering family members. We feel disgust in ourselves for not doing something more to help him.” It’s something I would hear over and over from the families A HOMELESS PERSON WHO PASSED AWAY ON THE STREETS OF MULTNOMAH COUNTY. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS suicide. Sometimes people pulled through; sometimes they didn’t. The experiences almost always left me completely wrecked and lacking any kind of normalcy. My world felt upside down. I thought about the first person I had ever written about who died on the streets: about a young woman who had taken her own life, and her mother, who had visited me afterward. I kept a worn-out copy of a poem I wrote about her tucked away in my desk drawer. Sometimes after talking to a family member who had died on the streets, or writing a story about homeless deaths, I would read it to myself and think about that girl and all the people who had died during my tenure of working on the front lines. For years my executive editor, Joanne Zuhl, and I had been writing about the stories of people that had died on the streets. Our collective work contributed to efforts by local governments in the region to create a methodology and system to track and report the number and causes of homeless deaths in the region. Their stories were almost always heartbreaking. Holding back tears, Krista Campbell, a mother whose son had passed away on the streets talked to me about her son’s experience. At 42 years old, James Michael Bostick had lived a hard life. Her son had been battling addiction and homelessness for more than 13 years. “Some people might see him as just another homeless junkie that died, but he was an incredible man,” said Krista. “He had an incredible heart. He was my precious baby. I suppose in the back of my mind I had been expecting the call for years. I prayed for him every single day. When the call came, nothing I’ve been through in my life prepared me for what had happened. We’ve both lived a hard life. Still, I’ve lost my son. My dear son.” James left behind a mother, a brother, and three daughters. There’s nothing that can prepare someone for that kind of conversation. All you can do is listen and provide support. As I held back tears of my own, not having any real answers, we talked for nearly an hour. I listened to Krista laugh and cry, telling me countless stories about James, sometimes pausing to tell me she couldn’t believe he was gone. She told me about his bright blue eyes and beautiful smile. She told me that he was a kind and comforting man that loved Jesus. Like many people, Krista said she didn’t understand the mental health issues her son faced. “Demons grabbed hold of my son years ago, and I felt helpless,” Krista would say. “I didn’t of people who have passed away on the streets. Not only are people dealing with the trauma of losing a child, but individuals or families are also often grieving alone. The loss of a child or a death in the family is never easy. It can be even harder when the family member is homeless. The feeling of judgment from peers and the stigmas attached to having a family member die on the streets can be isolating and torturous. The average age of homeless deaths in many communities across the country hovers between 40 and 50 years old. One would have to go back decades, possibly centuries, to find another demographic of people that were dying that young in America. The leading causes of death for people on the streets are accidental drug overdoses, natural causes, and death by suicide. “People experiencing homelessness die young, and from often preventable causes,” said Paul Lewis, a former health officer for Multnomah County. “You can’t help but conclude that the lack of housing has contributed to these realities.” Research has long shown living on the streets exacerbates existing health problems and causes new ones. Chronic diseases are difficult to manage under stressful circumstances. Acute problems such as infections, injuries, and pneumonia are difficult to heal when there is no place to call home. It’s not uncommon in America for many people experiencing homelessness that are dealing with life-threatening ailments to be released straight from the emergency room right back to the streets, or into a crowded shelter. “Everyone’s family has a story, and this is part of our story,” Mary, the sister of a man who died on the streets of Portland once told me. “It’s a devastating story. We could have helped him, absolutely. I’m not holding anybody responsible, but as a society, we let him down.” Research shows that at least 20 people in America die homeless every single day. The numbers are absolutely staggering. It’s unconscionable. Needless to say, I never did get back to that reporter. I’m still not sure what I would have said. After more than 20 years of working on the front lines of homelessness, it’s hard to find any kind of logic in a land where housing remains a commodity and human beings on the streets hold no actual value in the eyes of the federal government. A land where thousands of people experiencing homelessness are left to die every year, alone and forgotten. Their stories untold. Ghosts left to haunt our streets with no safe place to call home. A real American tragedy. We have such a long way to go. ■ Israel Bayer is an award-winning writer and housing advocate and works with the International Network of Street Papers. Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers NATIONAL STORY THE ETHICAL DILEMMAS BEHIND PLANS FOR INVOLUNTARY TREATMENT TO TARGET HOMELESSNESS, MENTAL ILLNESS, AND ADDICTION BY KATHERINE DRABIAK Over the past year, cities across the United States have unveiled new policy plans to address homelessness amid rising concerns about health and crime – for homeless people themselves, as well as for surrounding communities. Notably, several proposals include civil commitment, also referred to as involuntary treatment, for people with severe mental illness or substance use disorders. But this has thrown up important ethical questions. OVER THE PAST YEAR, cities across the United States have unveiled new policy plans to address homelessness amid rising concerns about health and crime – for homeless people themselves, as well as for surrounding communities. Notably, several proposals include civil commitment, also referred to as involuntary treatment, for people with severe mental illness or substance use disorders. In November 2022, for example, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan to use mental health laws to facilitate involuntary treatment when people are unable to care for themselves, or when their actions endanger others. Court-mandated treatment could include therapy, social workers, housing referrals, medication, or other interventions, either in hospitals or on an outpatient basis. New York’s plan builds on other recent initiatives to connect more homeless and mentally ill people with shelters or supportive housing. Political leaders in California and Portland, Oregon, have approved similar plans to use civil commitment laws. HOW CIVIL COMMITMENT WORKS Civil commitment laws have been around for decades. However, they only recently appear to have regained traction as a strategy for addressing the intersection of homelessness, mental illness, and substance use disorder. States have enacted these laws based on two theories. First, under the doctrine of parens patriae, a Latin phrase that means “parent of the nation,” states have a legal and ethical obligation to step in and help vulnerable people who cannot act for themselves. Second, in public health law, the concept of police power means that states have a duty to pass and enforce laws to preserve public health and safety, which can be impacted by homelessness. Every state has different laws outlining civil commitment. Importantly, these laws are a civil mechanism for courts to oversee a treatment plan for people with severe mental illness or substance use disorders that meet specific criteria. For example, a court could assess testimony and evidence from clinicians that a person has such a severe substance use disorder that he repeatedly loses consciousness, will not accept assistance, and risks freezing to death outside. These laws do not “criminalize” or punish homelessness. During the initial assessment process, the person receives care in a hospital, where clinicians determine their medical needs. Afterward, the court may order a treatment plan that would outline requirements for the person to accept shelter and maintain weekly appointments such as attending therapy or drug treatment. Treatment in inpatient hospitals is generally only used in cases of severe illness, and laws require using the least restrictive plan possible. Civil commitment laws also require due process, or a fair procedure for people to participate in the process, object, and have assistance from legal counsel. UNDERSTANDING CHRONIC HOMELESSNESS What is often called “the homeless” population is actually multiple groups with different needs, including youth, families, veterans, people with short episodes of homelessness spurred by job loss or unexpected bills, and the chronically homeless. However, the most visible population – those who are chronically homeless without shelter – suffer from high rates of untreated severe substance use disorders and mental illness, though estimates vary. The University of California’s California Policy Lab analyzed surveys of 64,000 people who were homeless across 15 different states and found that 78 percent of the unsheltered homeless suffered from mental illness and 75 percent from a substance abuse disorder. Fifty percent experienced both. Clinicians note that mental illness and substance use disorders can contribute to homelessness, and worsen it, too. ETHICAL ISSUES Civil commitment aims to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. A HOMELESS PERSON SITS ON THE STREET DURING COLD TEMPERATURE AND HIGH WINDS IN MANHATTAN, AS DEEP COLD SPREAD ACROSS THE NORTHEAST UNITED STATES IN NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK, U.S., FEBRUARY 4, 2023. REUTERS/JEENAH MOON March 2023 DENVER VOICE 11 But it raises difficult questions about core ethical issues such as autonomy – people’s right to make medical decisions for themselves – and beneficence, or ensuring that interventions provide more benefit than harm. Some experts oppose using civil commitment laws and assert that states should rely on voluntary services. Voluntary treatment, some of them contend, is just as effective but preserves autonomy and the freedom to choose or decline treatment. Critics also assert that involuntary commitment violates the principle of beneficence because it can stigmatize homeless people with severe mental health and substance use disorders by implying that they do not belong in public. Others contend it is cruel and coercive. Advocates for plans like New York City’s, on the other hand, assert that civil commitment laws are not only effective at connecting people with help, but fulfill a moral obligation to prevent people from suffering on city streets. In most instances, healthcare workers and ethicists presume that adults can make their own medical choices in line with their values and needs. But people with severe mental illness or substance use disorder may experience impairment in their ability to deliberate, assess their needs, and make decisions, which compromises their autonomy. Though involuntary treatment violates autonomy, it can also help people regain it through stabilization and recovery. Many clinicians and outreach workers argue that glossing over the impact of untreated mental illness and substance use disorder violates the principle of beneficence, because avoiding treatment may result in more health harm. WIDER EFFECTS Ethics debates must also grapple with how treatment affects the surrounding community, such as safety – including for other people experiencing homelessness. As one data point, the San Diego District Attorney’s Office has compiled data showing people who are homeless are far more likely to be the victims of crime. Its data found that this population commits dramatically higher rates of vandalism, arson, assault, and burglary as well, although there are few nationwide studies. And while most people who are homeless, have a mental health illness, or have a substance use disorder are not violent, some studies suggest people with a severe mental health illness are three to four times more likely to display violent behavior. Some evidence suggests that civil commitment can increase follow-through with treatment plans, reduce acute hospitalization and decrease violent behavior. Proponents assert that despite the coercive nature of civil commitment, it provides benefits as a step toward restoring the health of each person, and of society. ■ Katherine Drabiak is an associate professor of health law, public health law, and medical ethics at the University of South Florida. Courtesy of The Conversation / International Network of Street Papers

IN YOUR OWN WORDS BACK ON THE STREETS BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR SPRING EQUINOX BY BREEZ, VOICE VENDOR REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN BRIAN AUGUSTINE BELIEVED that there are four basic needs to live: water, food, shelter, and love, which he equated to human contact a handshake or a hug. But I will go further because for some, it’s a drug, a kiss or sexual oneness unifying bliss. Brian mentioned how mankind has few sources from which to get love family, friends, and those special people that win your attraction, and although he spoke of puppy love, I believe even Brian would agree that pets are a source of love for everybody. In other words, there’s no reason for anyone to be without love. I used to wonder why a homeless person would want a pet, but now I think I understand a little how the human heart works. When COVID hit, it was the first time in my life that I ever heard of the animal shelters being empty, which says to me, people who are not used to loneliness normally have a harder time than those that are. So much so, that people from ALL walks of life, for the purpose of mental health, will seek out companionship in isolation. How much more the poor back on the streets with no roof and no door outcast and ignored. ■ ILLUSTRATION BY BREEZ 12 DENVER VOICE March 2023 EVENTS WHEN: Mar 3, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: 40 West Arts District, 1560 Teller St. INFO: 40westarts.org COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COLFAX ART CRAWL: MARDI GRAS Join 40 West Arts District for a free, family-friendly Mardi Gras street party. Event to include a traveling brass band, beads, new exhibitions, food trucks, installations, and more. Costumes are encouraged! COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 COLORADO DRAGON BOAT FILM FESTIVAL Founded in 2016, this four-day festival will feature in-person film screenings, community conversations, and special events celebrating the power of filmmaking within Asian communities. WHEN: Mar 9 – Mar 12 COST: Prices vary; see website for details. WHERE: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax INFO: denverfilm.org ACROSS FRIDAY MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION A regular meditation practice can help you cultivate kindness and inner peace—two things we desperately need in these stressful times. Each class will include instruction on some mindfulness themes, followed by 30 minutes of practice. All are welcome! WHEN: Mar 10, 17, 24, and 31, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. COST: Free but registration is required. WHERE: Online INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming WHAT WE’RE WATCHING WITH JOHN ANZALONE In Sudden Fear (1952), an ambitious actor insinuates himself into the life of a wealthy middle-aged woman, then plots her murder with his mistress. Join film professor, John Anzalone, for an in-depth look at this classic noir thriller. WHEN: Mar 12, 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. COST: Free but online registration is required. WHERE: Online INFO: denverlibrary.org/events 1. HS exams many colleges no longer require for admission 5. Achy 9. Declares 14. Actress Polo 15. Playing an extra NBA quarter 16. First blank space on a form 17. “Dies ___” (Judgment Day hymn) 18. Heart of the matter 19. Unoriginal, in modern slang 20. Cuts off at the pass 23. Carefully followed, as a plan 24. Entertain 27. Farm division 29. Paperless boarding pass 31. Big month for the IRS 34. 50 years 36. Salacious look 38. Adverb suffix? 39. Lingerie item 40. Necessity for a spy or fugitive 45. “Malcolm X” director 46. Immobile sculpture 47. It’s hailed by city dwellers 49. Garbage 50. Pie chart part 54. Separate (from) 58. Hasbro game that says its own name 61. Like Jack Sprat’s diet 62. Are, in Argentina 63. Boredom 64. Carnival 65. Suffix with gang 66. Doctrine 67. Comrade in arms 68. School session DOWN 1. Skunk defense 2. Cliffside dwelling spelled very similarly to 26-Down 3. “The Sound of Music” family name 4. Sonora snooze 5. Madame, in Italian 6. “Don’t bet ___!” 7. ___ Hashanah 8. Kitchen extension? 9. Egg white protein 10. Railroad bridges 11. Lt.’s inferior, in the Navy 12. Outdoor gear retailer 13. Amniotic ___ 21. Allergic reaction 22. Diminish 25. Feature of the Jolly Roger 26. Bone-chilling 28. Say “y’all,” say 29. Big splash 30. Ilk 31. “Bummer!”, more quaintly 32. Annoyances 33. Cut again 35. Devotee 37. Certain element in the alkali metal group 41. Second Amendment word 42. Building additions 43. Bricklayer’s craft 44. Board member, for short 48. Least welcoming 51. Spoonful, say 52. Aquatic mammal 53. Violate a peace treaty, maybe 55. Italian car, briefly 56. Close, as an envelope 57. It’s rigged 58. It’s found in a garden or river 59. Musical Yoko 60. JPG alternative NERD NITE If you’re a fan of TED talks, the Discovery Channel, and/or Wikipedia binges, Nerd Nite is the show for you! Three experts will present on three different topics, while the audience drinks and thinks along the way. Be there and be square! WHEN: Mar 31, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: $10 in advance, $15 at the door WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: bugtheatre.org March 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Bank of America Charitable Foundation Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Alexander Seavall Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Alex Salva Russell Peterson Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Warren and Betty Kuehner Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams Mathew Rezek $500-$999 John Gibson Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Graham Davis Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois 14 DENVER VOICE March 2023 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 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! 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL A resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community. detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVE ANOTHER DAY Live Another Day believes in equal access to life-saving mental health and substance use resources. This website provides extensive information on the best resources available: liveanotherday.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city SOUTHEAST ADDICTION CENTER Top 50 resources for Black men who are struggling with substance use and/or their mental health. southeastaddictiontn.com/50-addiction-mental-health-resources-for-black-men SOUTHEAST DETOX Updated in 2023, this guide features over 50 fully-vetted resources for Black women. southeastdetoxga.com/black-women-addiction-mental-health-support STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center March 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

D E N V E R T V S O I A C F E A F 2 E U N B M D 2 G R METLO ROOFTOP 1111 N Broadway Denver, CO 80203 SUNDAY, MAY 7 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. A A , N I 7 JOIN THE DENVER VOICE FOR OUR ANNUAL RISE & THRIVE BREAKFAST! This complimentary event, put together by some of Denver’s best breakfast and brunch locations, helps raise awareness and funds for our programs and services. Together, we can give those experiencing homelessness and poverty the opportunity to earn a dignifi ed income. I S Y RSVP BY MAY 1 denvervoice.org/rise-and-thrive R 0 K 3

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE PAYING TRIBUTE TO BRIAN AUGUSTINE PAGE 8 RESIDENT OF THE STREETS TALKS ABOUT NAVIGATING RELATIONSHIPS WITH BOTH UNHOUSED AND HOUSED MMUNITIES H COMMUNITIES PAGE 6 40 YEARS OF HOMELESSNESS PAUL BODEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE WESTERN REGIONAL ADVOCACY PROJECT, OUTLINES THE HISTORY OF SOCIAL DISINVESTMENT IN THE COUNTRY SINCE THE ‘80S. PAGE 11 ARE YOU REALLY LISTENING? VENDOR FOR MONTREAL’S STREET PAPER L’ITINÉRAIRE EXPLAINS THAT COMMUNICATING WITH HER CUSTOMERS IS IMPORTANT, BUT SO IS LISTENING TO PASSERSBY. PAGE 5 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 8, 9, 10, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 FEBRUARY 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 2 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE WHEN VENDORS FIRST TALKED about what question they wanted to answer for this month’s Ask a Vendor, the initial ideas were about love and friendship. And then we discovered our longtime vendor and dear friend to many, Brian Augustine, had taken his life. Suddenly, the focus shifted to ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR celebrating Brian’s life.For anyone who knew Brian, he had his share of physical health challenges. Sometimes, months would pass before he would stop by to help out at the office or purchase his papers, but we knew it was only a matter of time until he would show up with a bright smile, wearing a baseball cap or one of his signature holiday-themed hats. What we didn’t recognize was just how greatly the countless obstacles Brian faced weighed so heavily on him. On social media, people frequently post reminders to treat others with kindness and compassion because we never know what hardships or difficulties anyone else is facing. We are told to check on the people we love and let them know we’re thinking of them. Yet, despite those reminders, people dear to us slip through the cracks. How do we make sure there are no cracks to slip through? Love should be all we need, but maybe it’s more important to know we are loved. This issue is dedicated to Brian Augustine, but it is also dedicated to the other vendors we’ve lost since February 2020. Others who participated in our program in the past may also have died, but the vendors whose deaths we’re aware of include Dwayne Pride, Alvin “Mustafa” Cotton, Victor Bowie, and Brian Augustine. Each of them was a member of the Denver VOICE family. Each of them played an important role in ensuring we fulfill our mission to give everyone a second chance by offering low-barrier opportunities to earn an income. We can never fill the void left by the loss of Dwayne, Mustafa, Victor, or Brian, but in the spirit of love and friendship, we will continue to recognize how their lives enriched the Denver VOICE and made us all better people because of them. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS BRIAN AUGUSTINE was a Denver VOICE vendor for12 years. He was a frequent contributor to the VOICE, including the last installment he wrote for this issue in his column “Back on the Streets.” GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Breez Giles Clasen WRITERS Breez 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. John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Rea Brown Giles Clasen Raelene Johnson Jacob Marsh, Sr. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Jennifer Seybold Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 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 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. OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE February 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US INTERNATIONAL STORY HOMELESS PEOPLE ON THE STUTTGART PAINT ATTACKS BY DANIEL KNAUS ANTI-HOMELESS ARCHITECTURE IS ALSO AN EXAMPLE OF (STRUCTURAL) VIOLENCE - THESE BLOCKS HERE IN STUTTGART ARE MEANT TO KEEP HOMELESS PEOPLE FROM FINDING A PLACE TO STAY DRY. CREDIT: DANIEL KNAUS IN SEPTEMBER I ASKED SEVERAL HOMELESS PEOPLE if they were scared by the paint attacks (their real names have not been used). The first answer is usually the same and may baffle citizens from so-called mainstream society: “What paint attacks?” Almost all my contacts are still unaware of the attacks even after they became a regular occurrence. My first insight is that homeless people are so disadvantaged by material deprivation, language barriers, or cognitive Continued on page 4 HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. February 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

INTERNATIONAL STORY Continued from page 3 impairments, that they hardly bear witness to many issues in the media - not even a series of violent crimes that seemingly terrify them. THE HORRORS OF LIFE ON THE STREETS Information about the attacks interested almost all my contacts, but their reactions hardly correspond to what you may expect either. No one single person expressed fear of a potentially threatening paint attack. Not Markus, who claims he’s already afraid enough as people kick him, spit at him and threaten him with all kinds of things. Nor Harald, who exclaimed that a paint attack sounds humiliating, but he’s been set on fire before. He explained that he was under a bridge and some boys came from both sides – he would have had no escape route even if he’d woken up in time. There were burn marks on the concrete like in the war, from the melted plastic of his sleeping bag. Many of the reactions of homeless people surrounding the paint attacks may even irritate a lot of people in mainstream society. Justus has been living on the streets for twenty years and snorts at the idea. “Paint? What a joke. Anyone who does that belongs in the circus!” Only one thought makes him angry: “Paint is expensive, I could use that money to buy lunch.” Experiencing violence and worrying about where the next meal comes from seems so normal for Justus that he’s hardly affected by the news. The same goes for Sabine who is at particular risk as a homeless woman: “If I’m sitting begging, guys press up against me or sit across from me drooling. Guys come after me, even if I’m on the move, as soon as I look just a little bit homeless – which happens quickly when the toilets are closed. Homeless women are just fair game.” A SAD TRICK FOR DETERRENCE Sabine knows all the possible methods of self-defense well. However, things don’t always go to plan on the streets. “Pepper spray also blows back in your face sometimes, so I never trust that. But when I was still on heroin, some friends told me a trick to scare off attackers – keep a syringe that is still bloody. Everyone is so afraid of HIV that when you show them the syringe, even angry young guys give you a wide berth,” Sabine explains. So, could this be a solution for more safety? “Of course not, that’s absurd,” she reassures. “The drugs destroy you. Once addicted, you suffer from your own fears, for example, fear of withdrawal on the street without medical help, which can easily be fatal. In the end, you never have a good chance of defending yourself out here. Unless you want to carry a machete around in your backpack? Whoever has the bigger knife, may be attacked less often. I used to know someone like that but, at some point, the police checked him and that was the end of that”. So, if not paint attacks, what’s on homeless peoples’ minds? For Carlos, it’s apprehension towards strangers passing by: “You lie there and just see shoes and you know that people are looking down on you both physically and morally.” Nadine worries about being treated unfairly by law enforcement officers: “They have me on their radar because I look different.” Tarek is afraid of exploiters and fraudsters, such as recruiters for illegal employment (in the construction sector for example): “There are guys who make us promises but break our bones rather than pay us.” For Alan, it’s the frequent panic when loud footsteps approach in the dark: “If you are alone, you can never sleep in the same place more than once, otherwise someone will be waiting for you. And when you’re somewhere new, you don’t know who you’ll provoke there - shopkeepers, residents, or psychos - and what kind of trouble you’ll soon be in. HOME ISN’T BETWEEN FOUR WALLS Homeless people of course also talk about the stress of never being able to come home to their own four walls and constantly fighting for their sheer existence. Dunja says she worries about where she can get some warm food, where the next toilet is, and whether she’ll be attacked there. She says: “If I am sick, how do I cure my cold before it hits my lungs? Where do I wash my underwear when I don’t want to go back to my drop-in center because someone is hostile to me there? Will I see my family again and will they take me in?” So, there are many fears for people on the streets, yet they often remain in the dark – just like many homeless people themselves. Most of the worries of those affected don’t even make it onto television and at best here in our street paper. Now, however, it’s come to light that the suspected perpetrator of the paint attacks was homeless himself. Sabine’s take on it is that if other poor people are beating each other up, there’s no solidarity. However, she’s not surprised: “Life on the streets can break you. Sick people become even sicker, some become numb or even go crazy. If, like the victims, the perpetrator too was homeless, society has two reasons at once to help us more.” ■ Translated from German by Naomi Bruce Courtesy of Trott-War / International Network of Street Papers MARIACHI BANDS FIRE UP FADING MEMORIES OF MEXICAN ALZHEIMER PATIENTS BY ALBERTO FAJARDO MARIACHI BANDS HAVE LONG BEEN A STAPLE OF MEXICAN CULTURE, and now their lively songs are finding a new use: reawakening the memories of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. The Mexican Alzheimer’s Center is promoting the therapy, hoping the music will stir up recollections of times past among patients with the degenerative illness, encouraging them to sing or even dance to familiar old tunes. “It makes me very sad because I remember my husband, but apart from that, I listen to the music with joy because it brings back many memories that make me very happy,” MARGARITA RAMIREZ, SUFFERING FROM ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, SINGS WITH MARIACHI BAND MEMBER AS PART OF THE THERAPY BEING PROMOTED BY THE MEXICAN ALZHEIMER’S CENTER, WHICH HOPES THE MUSIC WILL STIR UP RECOLLECTIONS OF TIMES PAST AMONG PATIENTS WITH THE DEGENERATIVE ILLNESS, IN MEXICO CITY, MEXICO OCTOBER 9, 2022. REUTERS/HENRY ROMERO 4 DENVER VOICE February 2023 said Leonor Camacho, a 90-year-old with Alzheimer’s in Mexico City. Songs with links to her husband, relatives, and friends are played to Camacho to complement her daily therapy, which includes saying tongue twisters with other patients online and performing manual exercises to stimulate her memory. The course of therapy led by female guitarists, violinists, and trumpeters in cropped jackets and wide sombreros began in September and will continue until mid-November, encompassing performances throughout the city that patients can attend. The shows take in ballrooms, boats on the waterways of the southern Xochimilco district, and the capital’s traditional mariachi hotspot, the central square Plaza Garibaldi, in the hope that venues will fire up patients’ memories. Regina Altena, head of the Alzheimer’s Center, said studies show that music stimulates neurotransmitters in the brain, creating a mental and emotional connection that helps patients remember and conjure up significant events in their lives. Originally developed in Germany 11 years ago, the therapy was given a mariachi twist to adapt it for Mexican use. Camacho, who has had Alzheimer’s for five years, is one of an estimated 1.8 million people with dementia in Mexico. Of them, around 1.3 million are thought to have Alzheimer’s. During the afternoon, Camacho likes to peruse photo albums with her daughter Maria del Rocio Maya and keeps her mind active by preparing food and doing other tasks around her home. Since Camacho began the mariachi therapy, Maria del Rocio said her mother had become livelier and taken up a more active role in family life again. Before, Camacho tended to sit alone in an armchair by the window, her daughter said. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / International Network of Street Papers INTERNATIONAL STORY PAGE TITLE ARE YOU REALLY LISTENING? STREET PAPER VENDORS ENGAGE IN EVERYDAY ACTS OF COMMUNICATION BY JO REDWITCH Jo Redwitch, a L’Itinéraire vendor at the Rosemont metro station in Montréal, conveys the importance that comes with listening and communicating with customers and other people that pass by her pitch. THE NEED TO COMMUNICATE with another human being is quite human. Passers-by also have their share of stress on a daily basis. Here’s what I tell my clients: “I’m here to sell a magazine, but I’m here for you first.” Selling is important, but so is listening to passersby. THE PINK FLOWERY HIJAB In a cheerful tone, and spontaneously, I call out to her: “Your hijab is beautiful! She smiles. Then I add: “You are very pretty”. Seeing her radiant face, I understand that I have touched a sensitive chord. She moves forward, rummaging in her bag. I refuse the money. She doesn’t understand. I am just happy to see her smile at me and I feel grateful. She insists on giving me the money. I refuse it and wish her a nice day by giving her the magazine. THE ELDERLY LADY An elderly lady stops, wallet in hand: “Would you like a magazine, ma’am?” She answers me with a nod. “Do you want today’s or the one November issue, which contains two pages I wrote? It’s the article called ‘Letter to my younger self’.” I show her the photos that accompany my article. She might be the more visual type, you never know. She holds her purse tightly, it’s rush hour and it’s crowded, but this detail doesn’t bother her at all. “My niece just had a baby. Her husband works a lot and my niece is exhausted. I’m going to her house to help her cook. “ I listen to her patiently in spite of the traffic in the subway. It’s 5 p.m. sharp. Her story over, she leaves me with a big $10. “Keep the change, thanks, Jo.” THE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR Another woman stops and calls out to me: “I read your piece: ‘Letter to my younger self’. Then, as you suggested, I tried to do the same – I wrote as if I were talking to myself as a child. I wondered if I had made the right choices, especially in early adulthood. As I reread it, I started to cry, tore it up, and threw it in the trash.” “Why ?” I asked her. “You know, I work in daycare and have had some serious health issues this year.” I nodded... “And I had an epiphany. Since the health thing with my heart, I’ve come to the realization that I never thought about myself. I sacrificed my whole life for my husband, and my children. Now I feel stuck.” I listened to each of them. The elderly lady needed empathy and recognition for helping her niece. My regular client needed me to tell her PHOTO COURTESY OF L’ITINÉRAIRE that it was not too late to take care of her own needs instead of those of others. While the young woman in the hijab simply needed to be told a compliment. Active listening, for me, is listening without intervening. Just listening. I try to understand the other person’s inner world, show real empathy, and then give the person time to tell their story. Also, it’s always good to validate with the person to make sure that I have understood. Maybe the person doesn’t need you to help them solve their problems, maybe they just need an ear. Genuine listening gives importance and value to people who need to talk, and even more to the person who is too often silent. ■ Courtesy of L’Itinéraire / International Network of Street Papers @DenverVOICE February 2023 DENVER VOICE 5 Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables WINTER DONATIONS MADE EASY During the winter, Denver VOICE vendors experience increased heating and housing costs. Meanwhile, their income decreases because cold temperatures means less foot traffic and fewer paper sales. If you would like to help out your vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! WINTER WISH LIST

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN NOT A NOBODY GILES CLASEN ONE LOOK AT NAILHEAD AND IT IS CLEAR HE HAS A STORY TO TELL. His nose has a notch missing brought on by injury. “It’s interesting because no one ever asked me about it before,” Nailhead said. He speculated that no one asks because the wound makes him look intimidating. The injury was retribution for a disagreement he had with a group of homeless individuals he’d encountered. The group had set up camp in a park and put up a chain as a barrier to keep others out. Nudged by his friend, Nailhead approached the group and told them to remove the chain for safety reasons. According to Nailhead, he delivered the message in a way that violated a community code and was punished for it. “I got hit with a skateboard, something we call ‘truck fucked,’” he said. “When you get hit with a skateboard, both the wheels land in your eyes, and the truck busts your nose up. It’s a pretty substantial blow. It is to serve somebody a punishment in my culture.” The homeless community lives by a certain code that has to be learned, Nailhead said. Violating the code and the community’s trust can lead to violence as retribution. “The hit sheared off seven teeth and fractured my sinus CREDIT: GILES CLASEN cavity,” Nailhead said. “The most painful part was shearing my teeth off because the roots stay in your gum.” He now keeps mostly to himself while moving in and out of different communities living on the streets. According to 6 DENVER VOICE February 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Nailhead, he is known as someone you don’t mess with, but also someone who can be trusted to share what he has. Nailhead maintains a small camp in an alley where he has lived for nearly four years. Occasionally, he is forced to move by the police, but he always returns after a few days. The camp consists of a heavy wool blanket draped over a small gap in the foundation and fencing of an apartment building. Inside the lean-to, the floor is covered with more blankets, a few supplies, and a sleeping bag. “I think my camp isn’t as threatening and is better to my [housed] neighbors because I don’t have a tent,” Nailhead said. “There are no stakes in the ground. The stakes mean a lot. If you drive a stake into the ground it is symbolically like you’re putting down roots, something permanent.” Nailhead keeps the alley clean and picks up any nails or glass to protect tires. He believes this simple act helps him maintain a good relationship with his housed neighbors. “The best relationship is when they don’t think about me until they take the trash out and see me. And they don’t think about me again until they take the trash out again.” Nailhead said. Nailhead considers weather to be the greatest threat to him. The recent cold has been difficult for him to navigate. “The only way to legit stay alive out here is to burn a fire,” Nailhead said. Not just any fire will do, though. As Nailhead explained, it has to be a slow-burning fire that creates a lot of heat and little smoke. He has developed his own way of creating fuel for his fires. Dry cardboard is Nailhead’s fuel of choice. He tears it into strips and then soaks each strip in a mixture of wax and Sterno fuel. If he can’t get Sterno heaters, he relies on lighter fluid. Nailhead always keeps his fires inside some type of fireproof container and off the street. When it becomes dangerously cold, Nailhead goes to the Aurora Day Resource Center. He travels from downtown Denver to Aurora because he feels the ADRC treats people kindly. “[The ADRC] is there only to provide you with a place to be warm and alive. They’re not trying to push anything on you,” Nailhead said. Nailhead first became homeless after leaving his life on the East Coast, where he had developed a drug and alcohol addiction. He said if he didn’t leave his old life, he would die of alcohol poisoning or a cocaine overdose. He figured if he gave up his job as an electrician he wouldn’t be able to afford the drugs and alcohol that threatened his life. He wasn’t sure why he chose Denver, but he believes his poverty and homelessness saved his life. So far, his strategy is working. He drinks very little today, compared to when he was a working electrician, and he no longer uses hard drugs like crack cocaine. He mostly uses alcohol or drugs to endure the hardships of living on the street, but he no longer feels he needs drugs or alcohol in the same way. Getting off the streets hasn’t been easy. Nailhead isn’t sure if he is ready to start trying to get an apartment or other more permanent housing. He knows eventually, the time will come when his body can’t endure the changing weather and other threats. Nailhead has been arrested a handful of times for being in various parks after hours and for sitting or lying down in the public right of way near the 16th Street Mall. These arrests may make it harder for him to find housing when he is ready. He knows people may not understand why he continues to live on the street, and he said it is hard to explain. “I’m a nobody,” Nailhead said. “But out here I’m kind of not a nobody. I am kind of respected. You can’t find that everywhere.” ■ The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org February 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAYING TRIBUTE TO DENVER VOICE VENDOR BRIAN AUGUSTINE Denver VOICE vendors share their memories of Brian BREEZ I will personally miss Brian Augustine so much. He was a force of positivity in my experience here in Denver. Brian saw that I was and have been going through many trials and tribulations and took it upon himself to pull me aside and encourage me to replace my mental dialogue with positive reinforcement. He encouraged me and lifted me up so that instead of just focusing on the negative, to see the positive happening all around me every day. His words were, “There’s more to your days than what you’re focusing on in these trying times. Open your eyes to the good that’s happening.” I will always remember this, Brian. Thank you! RAELENE JOHNSON Brian did so much for everyone. He volunteered at the VOICE office and would help out by doing chores that vendors do to get incentive papers. Brian didn’t take the incentive papers and would say to give them to other vendors who needed more sales. REA BROWN It is with great sadness that I speak on the unfortunate event to wit that I have been so fortunate. While I could use my pen to spin words that blend, with memories symphonically accomplishing a tapestry, so wonderfully woven that one would wish to ponder “what if,” before they drift. But today, I will speak plainly as a friend. Brian was one of the first vendors that I met, whom I remember for his professionalism. Every day, at the same time, like clockwork, you knew who Brian was. He had a hat or a shirt for every holiday. He was always highspirited while working. He had a system for buying and vending papers that he used every month he could until COVID. In the office, on the other hand – at least from where I stood – it appeared that Brian was trying to be the greatest vendor. As best as he could, he volunteered for a long time, helped unload the paper delivery trucks; wrote for the paper more than any other vendor I know, participated in all the programs the VOICE offered, showed up for fundraisers, special events, special issues, etc. I even believe he served on the board at one time. Brian wasn’t perfect. Brian had problems. One day I ILLUSTRATION BY BREEZ remember trying to help Brian find an answer to his housing problems, which got worse when his rent nearly doubled some years ago. 8 DENVER VOICE February 2023 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY It seemed to have been a downward spiral since then. With relationship problems, in and out of the hospital, one thing after the other to weaken his heightened spirit, until finally, it happened, and he was back to being homeless. Of course, there were many things that could’ve been done to prevent his passing. And while people tried to help Brian, myself included, it remains evident that the help he needed was companionship, financial support, or both. It’s hard to think that one act of kindness might have kept Brian alive, even if, but for a little while longer. And not only Brian but Dwayne and many others. They didn’t do drugs but tried to help humanity, maybe made a few unprofitable decisions, but nothing warranting an early grave. All Brian needed was a place to stay, even if for a little while until he could find a place he could afford with the money he was making. But there was no couch that would welcome Brian or temporary stay he could go to. Brian’s friends were few. They were people who either worked at the VOICE or people who he sold the VOICE to. I hope this dark untimely event shines a light on what more we all could have done, and what we can do in the future. JOHN ALEXANDER My name is John Alexander, and I have been with the VOICE for more than 15 years. I have known Brian Augustine since that very first day with the VOICE. Throughout these many years, I have only seen Brian’s love for his work, and the way the life he enjoyed with the Denver VOICE grew more each day than the day before. Brian never, never, never spoke in disgust about anyone or anything – not even when the weather was bad. His kind words and actions made Brian Augustine who he was. Goodbye, Brian Augustine, and may God continue to give you peace and many blessings. JACOB MARSH, SR. Brian was a good man, a great friend, and an awesome vendor. Brian was a very compassionate guy. If you were down on your luck or having a bad day, he always knew knew what to say to cheer you up and get out of the slump or to make you feel better when you’d received bad news. He was a very funny guy, and everyone knew it. I watched Brian in his good years and his bad. Even though his final couple of years were some of the worst, he always managed to look at the positive side of things. Brian was one of my mentors. When I started with the VOICE, Brian took time to teach a greenhorn like me to vend the VOICE properly. I had the privilege of getting to know him, and understanding what was important to him. He once told me that other than this job, which he loved, he loved his family, but he loved his vendor family just as much. He also told me his favorite part of this job was meeting new people. Brian loved his job when he was able and feeling well enough to get out. He tried his hardest to get the VOICE and our voices as vendors out to the public for everyone to see what we do here at the Denver VOICE. Brian was a very caring man that loved everyone and everything in life. He had a very big heart and cared for everyone – even if they didn’t care for him. I never considered Brian to be a violent man. I don’t think he had a violent bone in his body. Brian, you were my friend and brother. You will be missed dearly. Rest in Paradise. ■ If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources. This tribute continues on page 10. February 2023 DENVER VOICE 9 BACK ON THE STREETS BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE Editor’s Note: This is the final installment of Brian Augustine’s “Back on the Streets.” I was so fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know Brian. He was proud of this column. His stories were harsh sometimes, but to give readers a true sense of reality, he refused to soften how he described his experiences. I loved working with him on his column, and I will be forever grateful to him for trusting me to help tell his story. THEY SAY THAT THERE ARE THREE BASIC NEEDS TO LIVE – water, food, and shelter – but, there is also is a fourth. Some may supplement drugs and/or alcohol, which may get you through life. But, that’s definitely not living a real life. Love is a necessity to live a real life. Human contact. Like a handshake or, better, a hug. Love gets you through the days. The first love most receive is from their mom – even with an adoption. Mom loves you first. Then, hopefully, Dad, followed by siblings. Parents, brothers, and sisters are a great source of love. After that, it’s aunts and uncles, but let’s not forget about cousins. This should be the base for love in your life. That isn’t true in my case. My family just doesn’t find a use for me. After family, there is that first love, which some call puppy love. Friends are another good source of “small” love. Then, there are the great loves. Some say you’re only allowed three great loves in one life. I’ve had my three. I know they were great loves because no matter what they did, or what I did to them, the love was still there. Right now, I’m living without any significant love. My mother passed away, and my family doesn’t contact me at all, even if I contact them. I have no girlfriend, even though I’ve tried and searched for one. The only love I receive is from those who are my friends. Friends tend to only say they love you when you say it first. I will continue to go through life, still searching for that next love. And I will always have the hope of finding one. Being homeless, it is hard to find love. We tend to do things that hurt our chances. Usually, drugs or alcohol separate us from the ones we love. For me, it is just being homeless and poor. I went through the pandemic without hugs or handshakes. It was hard but I made it through it. Now, I’m on a forced shutdown due to having a cold and dealing with poor health conditions, which means for three or four months, I will not have my friends with me. But I continue to strive forward. Still hoping to find that intimate love. Make sure you tell the ones you love that all you have for them is love. I’m sorry if I made you sad. I just hope you understand this is something I had to get off my chest. It being February and all. ■ ORIGINAL DESIGN BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE FOR 2020’S WRAPPING PAPER ISSUE

VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH BRIAN’S EYES In the summer of 2017, a handful of Denver VOICE vendors participated in a photography workshop led by Dave Thatcher of Picture Me Here. After learning how to frame a shot and tell a story with an image, the vendors received a free disposable camera and the opportunity to publish photos in our August 2017 issue. Brian Augustine’s photos are centered around two areas where he spent much of his time: the South Pearl Street Farmers Market and the 16th Street Mall. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SOUTH PEARL STREET FARMERS MARKET “This is the end of the farmers market, and the end of my day. When it’s over I do traffic control.” BRIAN’S MORNING VENDING SPOT “Start of the workday. It just struck me as a really good picture, the lighting and everything. It felt like the start of a good day.” 16TH STREET MALL “It was a peaceful morning. It gets so busy down there that sometimes you don’t recognize the beauty.” SOUTH PEARL STREET FARMERS MARKET “All the people at the South Pearl Street Farmers Market are friendly.” 16TH AND CURTIS STREETS, LOOKING UP AT INDEPENDENCE PLAZA BUILDING “The reflection of the clock tower in this building reminded me of mechanical monkeys you see in the movies.” 10 DENVER VOICE February 2023 NATIONAL STORY 40 YEARS OF HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA BY PAUL BODEN Paul Boden, executive director of the Western Regional Advocacy Project, writing from the perspective of having experienced homelessness at a young age, outlines the history of social disinvestment in the country since the ‘80’s. FORTY YEARS AGO, the federal government slashed affordable housing budgets of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), marking the beginning of the contemporary crisis of homelessness. It has become political fodder for local politicians to say they will end homelessness “in this city” with complete disregard for the fact that no one city created homelessness, and none will end it on their own. To understand why national rates of homelessness skyrocketed in the 1980s, we must ask: what systemic factors changed in the late 1970s and early 1980s to allow so many people to fall through the social safety net and end up living and dying on our streets? What has been happening over the last 500 years to result in Black and Indigenous people being disproportionately represented in the houseless population, and hit hardest by criminalization? Homelessness is a direct result of the decisions and funding priorities of the federal government, in a larger context of white supremacy, settler colonialism, and neoliberalism. If the federal government (LEFT) MAYOR AND HOUSING DIRECTOR OF NYC IN 1936, ARTWORK FUNDED BY WPA FEDERAL PUBLIC HOUSING ADMINISTRATION CREATED 1937 (RIGHT) ART HAZELWOOD AND WRAP 2022 OVERTHROW OF NEOLIBERAL GOVERNANCE – FREAKING SOON :) had chosen to support affordable housing, health care, anti-poverty wages and programs, worker’s protections, and quality education—rather than war, tax breaks for the wealthy, and corporate welfare—mass homelessness would not exist in our nation. In 1983, the Reagan administration tasked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with directing a national solution to the rising number of people without homes. FEMA, the federal agency responsible for disaster relief, did what they always do, which was to create thousands of short-term, emergency shelters. Given the economic downturn of the 1980s, popular sentiment was that the crisis would self-correct in time. But by 1987, the passage of the McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act marked the first federal legislation devoted solely to “managing” the epidemic of homelessness that was growing across the nation. As real affordable housing programs were being defunded by the federal government, funding for shelter programs grew exponentially. For four decades, homeless shelters that were meant to be a temporary solution to a temporary problem remained the primary response, along with criminalization, to people sleeping en masse in the streets. This ain’t no temporary problem, and the Federal Government never honestly thought it would be. Historical context is critical to understanding who is hardest hit by 40 years of social disinvestment. Ongoing systems of white supremacy and settler colonialism that affect everything from housing to healthcare, education to transportation, and especially the criminal (in) justice system, mean that homelessness and its myriad related traumas disproportionately impact people along intersectional lines of race, gender, sexuality, disability, immigration, and so on. This is no accident. It is exactly across these intersectional lines of difference that so many of us have joined forces in working for meaningful and deep change, building on ongoing fights for prison abolition, racial justice, disability justice, and countless other struggles. In 2005, for example, several groups organizing in the western ROONIE GODMAN, (2020)... REST IN POWER BROTHER U.S. came together to create the Western Regional Advocacy Project (WRAP) and across the country, other community groups are doing the same thing all fighting to give life to the realities of people with firsthand experience of these oppressive systems and to push for dignified solutions. We are continuing the fight to combat carceral shelters, end the criminalization of racialized poverty, stop the sweeps, and fight for actual housing, healthcare, education, and dignity that all human beings deserve. True community organizing brings allied local groups together to find common threads and strategize paths forward, mobilize legal resources for members, creates artwork and shared messaging, connects communities through coordinated direct actions, research and so much more. Seek out these groups and expand the Human Rights framework of dignity and respect for people as not a charity issue, it is the least we should demand and expect of our government. After 40 years, the system is still doing exactly what it was designed to do: manage and minimize the presence of homeless people. It was NEVER intended to address homelessness in any real way. I was here 40 years ago, and I’m still here today. The bunk beds and crash pads that FEMA funded weren’t implemented to create a new category of housing status for members of a community but that’s exactly what it has done. After 40 years of inhumane abject failure, it is past time to recognize “managing visible homelessness” isn’t a solution to shit. Homelessness is just a more visible manifestation of a society lacking in justice, not just the injustice of homelessness. Our organizing and public education must continue to build on the realities of all oppressed people so we lift our connection to each other and our power together! ■ The Western Regional Advocacy Project combines street outreach, movement building, and national policy work to help bridge local-national divisions that have hampered homeless advocacy and seeks to expose and eliminate the root causes of civil and human rights abuses of people experiencing poverty and homelessness in communities. Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers February 2023 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS I CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S BEEN 50 YEARS AGO BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR WHEN I WAS 16, I was in so much pain, I tried to commit suicide. I felt so bad and had no one to talk to, so I took a combination of sedatives and painkillers. After swallowing them, I ran from my parents’ house and through the woods nearby, so that I couldn’t be found. I just wanted to die. When they went looking for me, my sister pointed out the direction that she thought I would take. By the time they found me, most of the pills had already dissolved in my bloodstream, and my stomach had to be pumped. (To this day, I have not gotten over that feeling of having my stomach pumped.) After that, I was committed to a psychiatric ward for 10 months. And back then, mental health care was not good. The hospital didn’t know how to handle someone with all of my problems, so they released me. I had to suffer for so many years because no one would even look at me to help me. But deep down inside, I knew I could not attempt suicide again. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA It has been 50 years since then, and I’m glad I survived and was brought back to life. If I had died, I wouldn’t have had my children or nine grandkids. I also wouldn’t have my eight great grandbabies. (My ninth great grandchild will be born towards the end of February!) I thank God today I’m alive! If you are in pain and life is hard for you, GO GET HELP!!! Today there are so many different ways to find the help you need. Once you take your life, it’s over. Problems seem bigger than they really are. I’m here to tell you I love life today. It took me so long to get here, but I have to keep asking for help until you get it. You are worth LOVE – both selflove and the love of others! Once you get past your pain, you can be a light for others. That is the reason we go through pain, cause once we overcome it, we can help others. PLEASE GET HELP if you need it! You can’t come back from death, and you may miss out on the joy that living brings – once you ask for help and receive it. ■ WE NEED FUNDING FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR IN 2004, CONGRESS PASSED A BILL to give tax breaks to the rich, which were paid for by funds that had been used for mental health programs. At that time, I was trying to get back to working as a nurse’s aide. It was a career that I enjoyed and spent years doing. When the Democrats took control of the House, they took away that tax break, but the bill didn’t include funds for mental health care like before. I remember the first time I was homeless. I was in Atlanta and met this guy from my hometown. After talking to him, I thought he was pretty cool. I ended up going to Tampa Bay to find work. I was gone a year then came back to see the guy in Atlanta. But he wasn’t the same person, and he had obviously lost his mind. I knew that people can [lose their minds] on the streets, and I wished then that there were places for him to go to find help because he was such a cool guy. LANDO ALLEN. CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL After a year or two, I was going through my own mental health crisis. I had a daughter, but I had lost touch with her mother and didn’t know where my child was. I was sitting in a motel, watching my friend, as he was going through an illness that caused his death. I woke up to a phone call from his employer telling me that he had to be at work. When I passed my friend the phone, I saw that he was no longer alive. That was a blow to me. I didn’t know that my friend was so sick. I think he wanted to die. I know there are times I have felt the same way, so, when I got to Denver, I found a place to go to for my mental health. But I thought to myself, how many cities don’t have resources for mental health? Can you imagine how many tragedies could’ve been avoided across America if we had access to better mental health resources country-wide? Well, after all these years, and with all I’ve shared here, I believe that we need to ask Congress for funding for better mental health programs. ■ 12 DENVER VOICE February 2023 EVENTS LAUGHS AT LUCI’S National touring comedians and the best local talent descend into Luci’s Shambles & Provisions for a luscious and lovely night of laughter hosted by Jeff Stonic of DeadRoom Comedy. WHEN: Feb 1, Feb 8, Feb 15, Feb 22, 7:30 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show COST: Free, but a two-item minimum is strongly suggested. WHERE: Luci’s Shambles & Provisions, 1553 Platte St. INFO: deadroomcomedy.com THE DEATH OF NAPOLEON: A PLAY IN LESS THAN THREE ACTS Napoleon Bonaparte spends the last years of his life in exile on an island playing solitaire, arguing with insects, and refusing to get on his teeter-totter in this new comedy by Buntport Theater. WHEN: Various dates from Feb 3 – Feb 18. COST: Name your own price. WHERE: Buntport Theater, 717 Lipan St. INFO: buntport.com ACROSS LUNAR NEW YEAR PARTY FOR KIDS Celebrate the Lunar New Year! Make Lunar New Year decorations and crafts while enjoying traditional light refreshments. All ages up to 12 are welcome. WHEN: Feb 5, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Denver Public Library: Central Library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events FREE DAY AT THE DENVER ART MUSEUM Enjoy a free day at the museum! Advance ticket reservations are encouraged. WHEN: Feb 14, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. INFO: denverartmuseum.org FREAK TRAIN Held the last Monday of each month, Freak Train has remained Denver’s most unique live entertainment experience for more than 20 years. The fi rst 12 people to sign-up get 5 minutes to do anything they want on stage (well, just about anything). It might be the best 5 minutes of your life; it might be the worst. Either way, there’s free beer! WHEN: Feb 27, 8 p.m. COST: $5 WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: bugtheatre.org 1. Minute Maid drinks 5. Recipe amts. 9. Charged particle 12. British ___ (group of landmasses in the North Atlantic) 14. One with contacts, maybe 16. Bird word 17. Calligraphy tool 19. Choose 20. Congenital 21. Abridge 23. Relieves (of) 25. Founder of Carthage (or, in more recent times, British singer of “Here with Me”) 26. Brand mentioned by the Beatles in “Come Together” 30. Small incisions 33. Classic card game 34. Start of a refrain 36. Black piano key 37. Cylindrical building 39. TV control: Abbr. 40. Harvard rival 41. Th ere’s one on almost all of Weird Al Yankovic’s albums 43. A Stooge 46. Band performance 47. Wolfs (down) 49. Mexican salamanders 51. Only US president who was also chief justice 52. Opposite of sans 53. Judgment Day hymn title that translates to “day of wrath” 57. Driver’s lic., e.g. 61. Mr. Potato Head piece 62. Like Wyoming 64. Baptist leader? 65. Taj ___ 66. “All My Children” vixen 67. Indian lentil dish 68. MacLachlan of “Twin Peaks” 69. One-dish meal DOWN 1. LP player 2. “Help ___ the way!” 3. Association 4. Lady of Spain 5. “Ew, I didn’t want to know that!” 6. Harmony 7. Fuzz 8. Shells out 9. Counterculturist 10. “My bad!” 11. Written reminder 13. Unbending 15. What a spoiler might spoil 18. Choice words 22. Instruct 24. Poles, e.g. 26. Th resholds 27. Vegetable that may be red, green, white, or yellow 28. Security for a loan 29. Hello or goodbye 31. Superman’s birth name 32. “Keep it in” marks 35. Amazon assistant 38. Gumbo vegetables 42. Ratify 44. “___ Out” (Billy Joel song) 45. Swear 48. Run of luck 50. Comes to pass 53. Not working 54. Collection: Suffi x 55. Hurting 56. And others, for short 58. Came down to earth 59. Dash 60. Attraction 63. Ginger ___ COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 February 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Rose Community Foundation Max and Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Bank of America Charitable Foundation Francis Trainer and Trainer Family Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Katherine Standiford Walker Family Foundation Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Russell Peterson Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Keyrenter Property Management Denver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Gaspar Terrana Warren and Betty Kuehner Maggie Holben Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams $500-$999 John Gibson Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE February 2023 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org February 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE WELCOME, JAMES KAY! Resurrection of the surrection e SOLE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS DISCOVER SHOEMAKING THROUGH PROJECT-BASED LEARNING PAGE 6 VETERAN’S COMMUNITY PROJECT LONGMONT-BASED TINY HOME COMMUNITY PROVIDES TRANSITIONAL HOUSING, SUPPORT SERVICES TO VETERANS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS PAGE 8 MORE THAN JUST ‘BETTER FOOD’ MOUNTAIN ROOTS FOOD PROJECT SERVES GUNNISON’S HUNGRY WITH LOCALLY SOURCED FOOD PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JANUARY 2023 | Vol.28 Issue 1 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: ANGELA FLORES SEWS TOGETHER PIECES OF THE SHOES SHE IS DESIGNING. CREDIT: CAT EVANS

DIRECTOR’S NOTE AS WE BEGIN 2023, I am humbled and grateful to be welcomed as the executive director here at Denver VOICE. While I am hoping to get to know many of you personally, I am happy to share what led me to this great organization. My whole life, my mission has JAMES KAY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR been to leave this world a little better than I found it. Growing up, I was blessed to be surrounded by some of the greatest humans I’ve ever known. Through any hard times, I had family and the best of friends to help me stay focused on trying to make a difference. Years later, I found this same support from volunteers I was able to work with at the Humane Society of Northwest Georgia. Having these mentors and opportunities to learn, convinced me to pursue nonprofit management and development. Since obtaining my master’s degree, I’ve had the privilege of working for incredibly important and worthy causes including support for victims of domestic violence and anti-trafficking organizations. When the opportunity arose to join Denver VOICE, I felt a surge of that same passion. This unique approach to assisting individuals experiencing housing instability spoke strongly to me. The ability to connect and invest deeper with this community has been the most incredible benefit to this position already. Our vendors are amazing, and I am honored to serve them. Looking forward, I can predict 2023 will be a very big and important year for Denver VOICE. There is an opportunity to grow and help more individuals than ever before. With that, I’m excited to have your support and hope to continue the VOICE’s tradition of giving people low-barrier access to earning a dignified income. Happy New Year! ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ASHTON BROWN graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a Bachelor of Arts in convergent journalism and a minor in cinema studies. She and her fiance currently live with their two cats in Lakewood. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Kay CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg GRACE THORBURN is a journalism student at the University of Colorado Boulder. She hopes that her writing will make a difference in the community by covering social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, homelessness, and racial equity. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Breez Cat Evans Gigi Galen WRITERS Brian Augustine Ashton Brown Rea Brown Cat Evans 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. Raelene Johnson Jason Martin Larmarques “Misha” Smith Leonard Smith Grace Thorburn BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 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 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. 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. 2 DENVER VOICE January 2023 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US INTERNATIONAL STORY FILM DIRECTOR HOPES MEN WILL OPEN UP ABOUT DEPRESSION BY CLAIRE CAO Director Martin McDonagh reunites co-stars Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell as two lifelong friends who fall out, to comedic and tragic effect. IN THE YEAR 1923, right after the establishment of the Irish Free State, civil turmoil continues to rage across Ireland. But on Inisherin, a remote, fictional island off the west coast, the townsfolk couldn’t care less about that conflict. Though they can glimpse the gun smoke across the harbor, they’re mostly untouched by it, happily tending to their farms and hanging at the local pub. The war that eventually upends their lives – forcing them to choose sides, bloody their hands, and face death – is much closer to home. It starts with something simple: a breakup. The Banshees of Inisherin is British-Irish director Martin BRENDAN GLEESON AND COLIN FARRELL IN THE FILM THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN. PHOTO BY JONATHAN HESSION. COURTESY OF SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES. © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED McDonagh’s first feature since Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017), which won the Golden Globe and BAFTA awards for Best Picture and earned Oscars for its stars Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell. Banshees takes McDonagh back to his roots, telling the tale of morose Colm (Brendan Gleeson) and self-proclaimed “happy lad” Pádraic (Colin Farrell). One day, Colm abruptly stops speaking to his lifelong friend, deeming the airheaded Pádraic “too dull”. The situation starts off funny, as the men try, and fail, to avoid each other. But when McDonagh’s signature bleak wit kicks in, the Civil War plaguing the mainland becomes an apt metaphor for the intimate devastation that follows. “Having the mirroring aspect of the Civil War – showing how a simple dispute between two men or two sides can escalate into something that gets worse and worse, where unforgivable things happen – was definitely something I wanted to bring out,” says McDonagh. “Capturing the truth of the sadness of a breakup was what I was going for, and I think the actors pulled it off beautifully. It’s quite heartbreaking what they came up with.” Banshees reunites Gleeson and Farrell, 14 years after they starred together in McDonagh’s hitman classic In Bruges (2008). The latter film, which similarly followed close Irish friends stranded in a quaint locale, was beloved for its pitch-dark mix of humor and violence. “We felt like it would be great to do it again,” says McDonagh. “Not repeat the same thing but to make something that an In Bruges fan would love equally, and to take them on a different, stranger journey.” The long-held affection between Gleeson and Farrell, and McDonagh, made it an organic shoot. “They’re very open to being vulnerable on screen. They’re very funny, they’re very kind to me. They’re just a joy to be around. But on screen it was about getting to the truth of these two egos and painting Continued on page 4 HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. January 2023 DENVER VOICE 3

INTERNATIONAL STORY Continued from page 3 a sensitivity to that,” he says. “There needs to be a love for both characters, and I think people love them as actors. We needed that in a dark story.” The darkness of Banshees is something that sneaks up on you. Like In Bruges, this film features wicked one-liners and grisly moments of amputation – but there’s a quiet maturity to this tragicomedy, making it one of the most moving screenplays of the year. Colm, a passionate fiddle player who is a decade older than Pádraic, feels he’s nearing the end of his life with nothing to show for it. This permeating sense of despair, and the fear of wasted time, is something everyone on the island feels, but cannot express. “That’s there, the nature of men quite a lot,” McDonagh says, pointing to a scene where Pádraic wonders why Colm “doesn’t just push [his depression] down, like the rest of us.” “As we know these days, it’s probably not for the best!” McDonagh laughs. “I think the film isn’t doing that. The film is saying do talk about it because the film talks about it. it. “She is probably the one who sees everything clearly from the outside and sees the stupidity of what’s going on and the male ego,” McDonagh explains. “I wanted to bring those eyes to the story. She’s the voice of conscience in the movie and the voice of hope.” After viewing this film – filled with portents of death, and COLIN FARRELL AND BRENDAN GLEESON IN THE FILM THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN. PHOTO COURTESY OF SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES. © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Hopefully, men will open up a bit more about that sort of stuff. I mean, it’s a lesson to me to do it, too. I’m as much of a culprit.” A counterpoint to the machoism is Pádraic’s sister Siobhán (the luminous Kerry Condon, who starred in McDonagh’s play The Lieutenant of Inishmore), the only character who truly has the courage to lean into change, even as she fears questions of what we leave behind – it’s hard not to wonder if McDonagh feels the same existential anxiety. “Very much so, I definitely think about – legacy is too heavy a word – but you do want to put things [that last] out there,” he says. “But not in the same way that [Colm] feels, where you have to devote every minute of your life to it in such a harsh way. I think you can be a happy person and a nice person and make films like this, too. “I’m a ‘happy lad’ like Colin Farrell, most of the time, and I can still come out with sad things like this!” ■ Courtesy of The Big Issue Australia / International Network of Street Papers BLESSINGS IN DISGUISE: THE SAGA OF LIVING AND SURVIVING CONTINUES BY TARIQ JOHNSON Tariq Johnson is all too familiar with the vicious cycle that individuals can end up in when they face financial and housing insecurity and issues related to addiction. Thanks to support from the Salvation Army and the Positive Direction Equals Change program, he is housed, working, and enjoying reconnecting with his family. But the last few years haven’t been easy. THE SAGA OF LIVING AND SURVIVING HOMELESSNESS continues. Just when I got comfortable in my stabilization room it seemed like my past hit me again—it was like déjà vu. The bed bugs started to come out the ceiling on the fourth floor where my room was, and when I turned off the lights at night they began to bite. I was shocked cuz I knew this would be the beginning of a long fight. I started filing complaints, buying expensive bed bug spray, throwing things away. The eggs started popping up, and I knew I had to move out of there. They gave me a room downstairs, which was smaller, but no bugs. It had DirecTV, a brand-new bed, space heater, and fan. So once again my prayers were answered. I had a venous ulcer in my leg, so at least I didn’t have to climb those stairs to the fourth floor anymore. My room was right next to the garbage room, so I kept it clean. I got an in-home care nurse to come and help me take care of the open wound on my 4 DENVER VOICE January 2023 foot, and having a refrigerator and microwave helped me heal, slowly but surely. The problem was the rooms were both stabilization rooms. They let me stay there for a year, which was a blessing. But time flew by, and I was not able to find housing or a shelter. Time was not on my side. Shit! The blessing and curse of being forced back into homelessness hit me again. It was wintertime, and that’s the worst time to be in the streets. I started using drugs again to get by—the street life put me back in survival mode. I put most of my stuff in a friend’s garage. So all I had was a backpack with the bare necessities. I slept in BART stations to keep warm and dry. I was a heroin addict with the host of cocaine on my brain. The only thing that rescued me from insanity was my faith in God and humanity. It was a cold and wet winter night, with brutal non-stop rain for days. Me and a lady friend shared a doorway with a big umbrella and a tarp over a shopping cart. We had blankets, but it was the coldest night of the year, and we were shaking and shivering. Then, a dude begged us to let him in. We looked at each other and decided, why not? Then another guy I knew for some time walked by and I had to let him in cause he didn’t have a coat. He was shaking and shivering, too. So we all got up under the tarp and even though the rain was coming down hard we were all dry. We built a fire by pouring hand sanitizer in a can and put it in the middle of the circle. Everyone was laughing and joking, then this guy came by with a backpack of snacks for $4. We all put a dollar in, and it was like we were camping, and it was warm under the tarp. We all looked out for each other, and we made it through the coldest night of the year. We all prayed and thanked God for blessing us. As the sun rose the next day, we cleaned up our area and went on our merry way. It felt so good to come together with folks you barely knew and survive a storm and live to see the next day. This gave me strength, faith, motivation, and determination to become proactive in getting help with my addiction and getting off the streets. I got into the Salvation Army detox center and started putting in some work on my recovery. This opened a whole new life for me to stabilize and replace bad habits with good habits. This took time and daily practice, praying, exercising, going to meetings, and eating healthy vegetarian meals. My biggest transition was getting my glasses because I have a visual impairment that has been deteriorating over the past 10 years. My daughter and my son were really worried about me going blind. Even though we live miles away, this brought us closer together. We started communicating daily, and then the rest of my family started to reconnect with me. The family that prays together stays together, and the blessings begin to unfold. ILLUSTRATION BY SONYA KATCHER I began to approach life with a positive mindset. One step at a time and one day at a time. Now I’m in a program called Positive Direction Equals Change. This has been a very instrumental part of me maintaining my perseverance, peace, faith, progress, prosperity, and purpose to make this crazy, mixed-up world a better place. I got a job working for a vegan catering company, and my body oil business is doing well and expanding. Now I have my own room with a shower and sink and toilet in it. I’m so grateful to lay in my bed, look out the window to see the stars shine at night and the sunrise in the morning. I really thank God for the love, peace, beauty, and happiness that he is showing me in this crazy mixed-up world we live in! The new beginnings of blessings came from what was a Curse with a blessing in disguise ■ Courtesy of Street Sheet / International Network of Street Papers WINTER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks, carrier bags USB-C charging cables WINTER DONATIONS MADE EASY During the winter, Denver VOICE vendors experience increased heating and housing costs. Meanwhile, their income decreases because cold temperatures means less foot traffic and fewer paper sales. If you would like to help out your vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! What do YOU want to ask? @DenverVOICE If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. January 2023 DENVER VOICE 5 A BRIAN AUGUSTINE I used to pray for a job I would love to go to and would be happy to be part of. It took me going homeless to find it. Denver VOICE is that job for me. My personality has changed. My outlook on life has done a flip with a twist. This job with the Denver VOICE has made me the happiest I’ve ever been in my life. REA BROWN The job that answers the question begs one to ask another question. Why don’t you do it for a living? It’s sad when you think about it, really, and a lot of my patrons and I have spoken about it from time to time. Students have languished over it after finding a career in something they didn’t go to school for. And the truth is if you’re talking about money that’s an easy answer, but if you’re talking about enjoyment and money, it’s a bit harder. but if you’re talking about Love, I believe you have to know something about yourself. Not many people find fulfillment in their work. But I often ask, “what was the dream?” I have worked, I have slaved, and I’ve even caught a few breaks, but if there is one thing COVID taught me with time to create is that I’m an artist, I always have been, and by Yah’s grace, I always will be. So, to answer the question, hopefully, tomorrow, we shall see, and that, my friend, ‘bout sums it up for me. RAELENE JOHNSON Years ago, I worked as a housekeeper in motels. Also, I have worked in fast food. To me, being a vendor is the best job. I am more fulfilled than I ever was. I get to meet interesting people and share my story with them. I’ve learned to speak up for myself and want to thank everyone who supports the VOICE. JASON MARTIN My favorite job would have to be when I was the manager of building materials and lumber at Lowes. I got to ride a forklift most of the time, or I scheduled the employees who worked under me. I enjoyed helping contractors out when they came in with big orders. LEONARD SMITH My favorite job was working as a cook, and a carpenter, mopping floors, cleaning pans, cleaning windows, and doing outside work. LARMARQUES “MISHA” SMITH Food pantry coordinator. I was living in Indianapolis, IN, and working at the Damien Center, Indiana’s largest AIDS service organization. I had to order food for the pantry from grocery stores and the Midwest Food Bank. During November and December, I had to make sure clients had a holiday meal and gifts to open. I was also in charge of the client’s annual holiday party. Good times. ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. What was your favorite job, and why? Q

LOCAL FEATURE ALL OF THE SUPPLIES AND FABRIC USED TO MAKE SHOES ARE DONATED BY THE PUBLIC. CREDIT: CAT EVANS RESURRECTION OF THE SOLE: AN ALTERNATIVE APPROACH TO EDUCATION BY CAT EVANS FOOTWEAR IN THE UNITED STATES is a multibillion-dollar industry. The powerhouse market has seamlessly generated a major influential gateway into the minds of American youth and culture. Chris Hunt, a teacher at William Smith High School (WSHS), is no stranger to the impact of sneaker culture on his students. William Smith is a Project-Based Learning (PBL) school located in Aurora, Colo. According to the PBL website, this means it uses “methods of teaching in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects.” Although WSHS is a member of Aurora Public Schools, Hunt points out the differences in the standard curriculum for a PBL school. “The classic approach to public education is taking a standard and supplying the class to meet the standard,” Hunt said. “The difference with PBL is we can teach whatever, as long as we are meeting those standards. We have to be very intentional about how we are getting those standards into the curriculum.” It’s a common method in academia to simply purchase CHRIS HUNT WORKS ALONGSIDE STUDENTS, AS THEY LEARN THE CRAFT OF SHOEMAKING. CREDIT: CAT EVANS preset curriculums, exercise through said curriculums, and once students fulfill that curriculum, all standards should be met. William Smith chose a more creative route to teaching. One of Hunt’s personal contributions to WSHS, which includes classes like jewelry making, screen printing, and sewing, is a shoemaking class. The class is one of the most sought-after classes in the school. Hunt reminds the students it’s their choice to be there, they are in the class of their own volition, “The students sign up for the class, for me, it’s already leverage, I let them know we are doing fun stuff, not digging ditches,” said Hunt. In this specific class, the students recreate their own version of Nike sneakers from scratch. That includes all assembling from the sole up. They sew together different fabrics and materials, step by step, in anticipation of the final reveal. At the end of the project, students will have an opportunity to show their final result via a fashion showlike event. From a legal standpoint, there is no issue in recreating these — including the Nike logo — so long as no money is made off the shoes themselves. Nike customizations can be controversial. In the modern shoe market, it is common to sell custom Nikes for large profits and then quietly pocket the profits. For William Smith students, this is of no concern. The key focus is skill development, creative control, and autonomous execution. By learning the trade 6 DENVER VOICE January 2023 LOCAL FEATURE of shoemaking, along with additional skills like designing or marketing, the knowledge the students gain often translates beyond the classroom. Beyond any sort of brand, the focus is an emphasis on independent skill, creativity, and individualism. The overarching goal for Hunt is putting the director’s hat on a curious head with the intention of inspiring his students to be navigators, editors, and most importantly, in charge of how they piece things together in their immediate reality. Custom clothing, reused materials, local branding, entrepreneurship, and creativity are core elements of our current culture. Skills learned in this class can be applied for a lifetime. “I had a student check out a sewing machine last summer; I had to ask for it back,” Hunt said. “If I have a class, and students start designing their own stuff — that, right there, is why I do this work.” As a teacher, Hunt believes that students taking their skill sets and building something(s) of their own is a fruitful, long-lasting outcome. Chris Hernandez, a sophomore enrolled in Hunt’s shoemaking class, has plans beyond his creation of the royal blue and black silhouette shoe – which happens to match his outfit. All of the materials Hernandez used to design the shoe’s toe box, with the fabric tongue painted black, the rest of the shoe, colored royal blue – outside of the Nike check – and the shoelaces made of string – were donated by the public. “I wanted to make something no one else had made before,” Hernandez explained. He completed Hunt’s sewing class during the last quarter of 2022, which included designing costumes for William Smith High School’s production of the play, “West Side Story.” Although he doesn’t yet have his own sewing machine, Hernandez has hand-sewing kits at home and looks forward to working on new designs. ALL OF THE SUPPLIES AND FABRIC USED TO MAKE SHOES ARE DONATED BY THE PUBLIC. CREDIT: CAT EVANS CHRIS HERNANDEZ SHOWS OFF HIS FINISHED PRODUCT. CREDIT: CAT EVANS “Sewing is one of my interests,” Hernandez said. “With what I’ve learned in the shoe design class, I’ve been thinking about getting an airbrush and customizing shoes like that. Customizing is something I want to go into. I feel like sewing calms me down. It’s peaceful.” Meaningful and genuine student-teacher relationships frequently encourage greater engagement with students, while sparking their curiosity and desire to learn. Currently, there are 365 students enrolled in WSHS. For comparison, Denver Public Schools’ East High School has a current student body count of 2,581. The lower enrollment at WSHS makes it easier for teachers to work directly with their students and address their different needs. At WSHS, all teachers operate on a first-name basis to remove the power dynamic between educators and pupils. There are no bells to remind students of periods beginning and ending — just clocks along the walls. The environment becomes its own safe space, the small size drawing more accountability for teachers and students alike. Hernandez’s fellow sophomore, Angela Flores, a selfproclaimed “little sneaker fan,” chose the shoemaking class and became instantly intrigued by the process. “I wanted to learn more and make a custom shoe,” she said. “It’s fun, but it’s hard. Every stitch has to be right. It’s a challenge.” Flores said she looks forward to the class every day because it’s one of her favorite classes, with the atmosphere being calm, and the vibe, supportive. The students are not only deeply engaged but also WSHS STUDENTS IN HUNT’S CLASS STAY BUSY, FINE-TUNING ON THEIR SHOEMAKING SKILLS. CREDIT: CAT EVANS proud of the work they accomplish. Many of them work in silence for the majority of the class, their eyes fixed on their creations. All the materials they use are donation-based with an entire sub-room stuffed with a variety of fabrics that make the students’ options endless. Shortly after Hunt posted online about the class and the need for supplies, people began to donate the goods in mass quantities. Alternative methods to meeting educational standards are welcomed by everyone at William Smith. The school’s atmosphere is abuzz with excitement in the air, plenty of open space, student artwork, and colorful murals. The modern building serves as a space for expansion, where teachers are eager to connect with students and educate them using different approaches that translate beyond standardized academia. The PBL method is a young concept, where teachers propose their own curriculum, hoping to open the door to students, so they can learn new skills and develop fuller relationships. Chris Hunt’s shoemaking class is one of many creative opportunities for William Smith High School students, proving that the future of PBL is both promising and necessary. ■ CHRIS HERNANDEZ CONCENTRATES AS HE WORKS ON HIS DESIGN. CREDIT: CAT EVANS CHRIS HUNT HOLDS ONE OF HIS STUDENT’S CREATIONS DESIGNED IN THE SHOEMAKING CLASS. CREDIT: CAT EVANS January 2023 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: VETERAN’S COMMUNITY PROJECT CREDIT: VETERAN’S COMMUNITY PROJECT VETERANS COMMUNITY PROJECT: “VETERANS HOUSING VETERANS, ARMED WITH THE STRENGTH AND SUPPORT OF THE COMMUNITY” BY GRACE THORBURN VETERANS COMMUNITY PROJECT (VCP) is an organization dedicated to offering services and housing to veterans in need. The donation-based organization started in Kansas City, Mo. Veterans Community Project of Longmont Executive Director Jennifer Seybold said the idea was inspired by combat veterans who saw a need in their community and wanted to do more. “They never envisioned growing beyond Kansas City, but it expanded to address veteran homelessness,” she said. Since then, the project has expanded into more cities. They are currently building in Sioux Falls and Longmont and are in the early stages of land ownership and permitting in Milwaukee and Oklahoma City. Seybold said that the community center at the Longmont location is a few weeks away from being finished, with plans to have an entire village completed in the second quarter of 2023. Veterans Community Project offers services to veterans in need, such as food and hygiene kits, rent and utility assistance, health care and housing referrals, case management, and military documentation services. The outreach center in Longmont is open for walk-ins during business hours, so veterans can receive assistance with issues like food insecurity, housing difficulties, or navigating veterans’ services. The Longmont location also utilizes a VCP mobile outreach unit that began on August 1, 2022. The mobile outreach unit serves veterans in rural parts of Northern CO, with initial service areas in Larimer, Weld, Boulder, Gilpin, Clear Creek, Broomfield, and Adams counties. “Project members traveled 3,000 miles across Colorado to reach those who otherwise may not have been able to access services,” Seybold said. The village under construction in Longmont will serve as a place for veterans to get back on their feet in a supportive community. The tiny homes are being built at no expense to veterans and serve as transitional housing for those looking for a permanent housing situation in the future. Veterans will be able to stay in the village for up to two years as part of a transitional program. They will “pay rent” by setting personal goals and working on themselves, Seybold said. Seybold shared that homelessness, the organization partners with many other groups, such as county veterans service offices, housing, unemployment organizations, and mental health agencies. They have about 50 local community partners to ensure those partners refer veterans to the right places. Veterans Community Project relies on community financial support and is limited in the financial assistance that they take. They look to build communities and outreach centers in areas where there is a need and the community will be supportive of the project. In Kansas City, where VCP was launched, veterans have been housed for years. “This is the model we’re operating off of,” Seybold said. “A tiny home is private, even though it’s transitional. Public housing can be difficult if you’re struggling with mental health. Tiny homes are quiet and private and provide a safe space to do that with case manager support.” 8 DENVER VOICE January 2023 COMMUNITY PROFILE DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. CREDIT: VETERAN’S COMMUNITY PROJECT The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. CREDIT: VETERAN’S COMMUNITY PROJECT According to Seybold, the Longmont team has received feedback that is nice to work with a staff that understands veterans and their specialized needs. Although veterans support each other, Seybold pointed out that there is a common misconception that veterans are receiving more help than actually they are and estimates that there are at least 40,000 unhoused veterans across the United States. Seybold emphasized that it’s important for communities to understand not everyone is eligible or can access federal services offered to veterans. She also said that veterans often experience trust issues, and as such, they are more likely to trust those they work with for referrals for services. To ensure that those in need are aware of available services, partner agencies will refer them to Veterans Community Project. “We don’t have a village yet, but we’re doing community work that makes a difference,” said Seybold. “The thing that is incredible about what we do is that we work with a lot of community members, and it’s great to see everyone come together.” ■ To learn more about Veterans Community Project, visit www.veteranscommunityproject.org. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. CREDIT: VETERAN’S COMMUNITY PROJECT If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org January 2023 DENVER VOICE 9

COMMUNITY PROFILE COURTESY OF @MOUNTAINROOTSFOODPROJECT COURTESY OF @MOUNTAINROOTSFOODPROJECT THE MOUNTAIN ROOTS FOOD PROJECT: MORE THAN JUST ‘BETTER FOOD’ BY ASHTON BROWN COURTESY OF @MOUNTAINROOTSFOODPROJECT THE MOUNTAIN ROOTS FOOD PROJECT has been helping those less fortunate in Southern Colorado for over a decade and donates 52,000 boxes of food each year. Mountain Roots is a small organic farm located in Gunnison, CO, and is known for giving away what they grow (also food from other local farms and farmers) to anyone that needs it. Mountain Roots is not a run-of-the-mill food pantry; the organization regularly grows its own food using regenerative farming techniques. Regenerative farming is a group of techniques that “balance and prioritize the health of the soil and restore the nutrients” in the water and crops. This allows their boxes of food to be fresher – and also much healthier – than the average food pantry or food bank. Holly Conn the executive director at Mountain Roots said, COURTESY OF @MOUNTAINROOTSFOODPROJECT “One of the things that sets us apart from a traditional food pantry is that we’re sourcing food from local farms as much as we possibly can, and we’re providing fresh fruits and vegetables — not boxed mac and cheese or Wonder Bread.” Conn said she wants the underserved community of Gunnison to come away from the experience with more 10 DENVER VOICE January 2023 than just a full stomach. “Our goal is to build comradery, self efficiently, promote health, and promote social and mental well-being, because it’s all tied together.” To achieve this goal, Mountain Roots hosts a four-week cooking class to show families how to cook healthy food for $10 or less. This is one of the many ways they try to erase some of the stigma surrounding people with low incomes. “I think we’re bringing a lot of stability to families who kind of just have to swallow their pride and hold their hand out for the handout,” said Conn. There has always been a need for food and shelter in the Gunnison community, but not like the growing demand over the last couple of years. “It’s a little bit heartbreaking to see an increase in requests this year,” said Conn. “You would think coming out of the pandemic, things would be getting better. On the other hand, it’s heartwarming to see how much our community has stepped up to support their neighbor in need.” Even though there was an increase in food requests in 2022 for Mountain Roots, there was also a record number of volunteers that assembled, sponsored, or dropped off boxes. COMMUNITY PROFILE BACK ON THE STREETS BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE Recently, the rent for Denver VOICE Vendor Brian Augustine went up significantly. No longer able to afford it, Augustine has returned to living on the streets. We asked Augustine to write about his experience and share the experiences of others in similar situations. COURTESY OF @MOUNTAINROOTSFOODPROJECT EVEN THOUGH IT’S A NEW YEAR, I don’t do the traditional resolutions. Instead, I start by going through the past year and thinking about all of the good things that made it survivable. All the good people and happenings that gave me a smile on my face. And I thank them in my mind. Social distancing these past two years during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic gave me the time to reflect, and I’d like to share my thoughts with you: I’ve been in the hospital a few times this past year. The nurses made my stays so much more tolerable than I ever expected. Their smiling faces and professionalism gave me a sense that they care about me. These people who went through a sort of war during the pandemic are the true heroes in our world. The smiles from friends that see me on the corner, when I’m vending the Denver VOICE, truly make my days great. I can’t believe that I have a job that makes me so happy. It is the people I keep a smile on my face and a positive attitude for because everyone deserves to have a wonderful day. THE FRIENDS WHO’VE MADE A DIFFERENCE Jeff McBride has been a friend from my start with the Denver VOICE street paper. The rest of his family became friends as I met them. Jeff’s daughter Katherine McBride started a GoFundMe page to keep me housed through the winter, but that has unfortunately stalled out. The staff and vendors at the Denver VOICE who care about me so much. During the peak of the pandemic, they created a Venmo account, so no cash is needed to get your papers. It has been a Godsend for all of us vendors. Now, about my newest friend, 18-month-old Lou. She started the summer staring at me every Sunday at the South Pearl Street Farmers Market. Then, one day she told me her name. Her vocabulary grew every week. She was always glad to see me. She made me feel special. So many people made my life so fantastic this year - more than could fit in this three different issues of the VOICE. But, know that I’m thinking of you. I developed a lot of health issues over the past year, but I keep fighting because of you. THANK YOU, ALWAYS!!! ■ COURTESY OF @MOUNTAINROOTSFOODPROJECT Because they had so many volunteers, they were able to drop off 200 double boxes of food for Thanksgiving. “Every box includes a small turkey or a whole roasted chicken, plus another stash of vegetables to get them through the next couple of weeks,” Conn said. Mountain Roots’ work doesn’t end there, though. They also have their Backyard Harvest Program, which is a food relief and rescue program. The organization works with a select list of 100 referred households that are in need for a variety of reasons — not just those with low incomes. For example, women living in shelters to escape domestic violence. According to Conn, this approach is different than other charity efforts because it’s an effort to address the immediate needs of food and security. For anyone interested, the organization always needs volunteers. As Conn explained, “We need people on Mondays to help assemble boxes, and on Tuesdays, we need people to help deliver.” They also need volunteers for their four-week cooking class — which is made up entirely of volunteers — and for the community garden, which runs from May through October. ■ BRIAN AUGUSTINE. CREDIT: ELISABETH MONAGHAN January 2023 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS HAPPY NEW YEAR, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR A NEW YEAR TO START ALL OVER. A time to change what may not have worked out for you last year. Happiness is the peace you can have for Self. Take a good look at last year, and see what or who caused you the most pain. If you don’t change what is going on around you, then you must let go of the things or people who are doing nothing to lift you up, but instead, try to break you down! You have to take charge of your own life. Now one else can do it for you. HERE ARE SOME GOOD RULES FOR SELF TO HAVE A BETTER LIFE: • When you wake up, don’t forget to say to Self, “I love me. I will not think negative thoughts,” for your thought waves go out to the universe, and the universe gives you back what you ask for. So, watch what you think. Think only good thoughts. • Tell yourself you will not allow anyone to talk harshly to you. Only YOU can speak up for yourself. • Keep PEACE in your heart. Let go of things that don’t make you feel peaceful. • Don’t keep anyone else’s idea of you, unless it is positive. • Take accountability for how you treat yourself or others. Remember to treat others how you want to be treated. • Rather than staying depressed, shower and get dressed, and always look your best. You will feel better. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA • If you feel lonely, volunteer somewhere. When you help others, your problems will not feel as overwhelming to you. • If you mess up on something or with someone, try to make it right. Do better next time. • Start the day with a look back on yesterday and see if anything went wrong. You can only change things if you see them. You can’t change anything if you don’t acknowledge what is going on in your life. • Most important, love your SELF enough to want the best for Self. Don’t give your power to others. Trust your Self first, for only SELF knows SELF! • Be your best Self, and do everything to make the New Year better than last year was. • And now, go make 2023 the best life we can give Self. Happy New Year, Self. I love you. ■ • It’s important to SMILE – even when you don’t feel like it. Keep a smile on your face and share it with others. Smiling will help you to feel better. • When you feel deeply sad, IT IS OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP. Asking for help will help you feel stronger. Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t need help. Do it for Self. Not for others. Be kind to Self. Get help. Only Self knows what Self needs. ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN ILLUSTRATION BY BREEZ 12 DENVER VOICE January 2023 EVENTS POETRY SLAM This weekly poetry slam has been around since 1997! Come listen to the battle or signup to compete for the $50 weekly prize. WHEN: Sundays, sign-ups at 7:30 p.m., event at 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St. INFO: mercurycafe.com FREE WEEKLY BREATHWORK CLASS You are invited every Wednesday to experience the benefits of breathwork. Learn how to breathe fully with this simple and effective method. Start your journey towards greater health, peace, and vitality today. WHEN: Wednesdays, 11 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. COST: Free but you must register online. WHERE: Online INFO: souldimension.org RIPEN: OPEN MIC COMEDY We all need a laugh after the holidays. Come check out this weekly open mic to either listen to some jokes or try your hand at stand-up. WHEN: Wednesdays, sign-ups at 8:30 p.m., event at 9 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: The Wide Right, 2100 Curtis St. INFO: widerightdenver.com COOKING ON-DEMAND Whether you’re looking to make empanadas, pierogis, fondue, quiche, or tapas, this online library of cooking classes will make your tummy growl. In-person classes available as well. WHEN: Anytime COST: $28 WHERE: Online INFO: theseasonedchef.com/cooking-on-demand WORDS Balsa Bark Battleship Bireme Boat Brig Buss Butty Cat Clipper Coaster Cob Dandy Dhow Dory Dow Dutch Barge Fly Funny Gig Hooker Howker Hoy Junk Ketch Koff Launch Liner Lorcha MTB Periagua Pink Polacre Pram Proa Raft Reed Rowing Scow Skiff Skip Smack Snow Tender Tug Xebec Yawl COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 MYSTERY CIDER THEATER 3000 Come watch the best/worst B-movies while Denver comedians riff on all their glorious ridiculousness. This month’s film is Dante’s Peak. WHEN: Jan 20, 6:30 p.m. COST: $8 (each tickets includes a free 10 oz. cider) WHERE: Waldschänke Ciders + Coffee, 4100 Jason St. INFO: facebook.com/waldschankedenver January 2023 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Rose Community Foundation Max and Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. $5,000 - $9,999 Bank of America Charitable Foundation Francis Trainer and Trainer Family $1,000-$4,999 Walker Family Foundation Jill Haug Katherine Standiford Whole Foods Foundation Russell Peterson Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Chris and Susan Pappas Michael Dino Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Frederic K Conover Trust Megan Arellano Keyrenter Property Management Denver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren and Betty Kuehner Maggie Holben Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Joshua Kauer Elsbeth Williams $500-$999 John Gibson Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart Peter Iannuzzi Nikki Lawson 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE January 2023 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org January 2023 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13 3 8 1 7 4 6 5 9 2 5 7 6 2 3 9 8 4 1 4 9 2 8 5 1 3 6 7 7 1 8 9 2 3 4 5 6 9 4 3 6 7 5 1 2 8 2 6 5 1 8 4 9 7 3 1 5 9 3 6 2 7 8 4 6 3 7 4 9 8 2 1 5 8 2 4 5 1 7 6 3 9

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE ‘TIS THE SEASON TO SHARE FOOD AND RECIPES DENVER VOICE VENDORS, WRAPPING PAPER 2022 Special Issue Our seventh-annual wrapping paper insert features art inspired by the original designs of our vendors and is 100% recyclable. BOARD MEMBERS, AND STAFF SHARE RECIPES TO FIT EVERY BUDGET. PAGE 4 GIVING AND GRACE VOICE VENDOR BRIAN AUGUSTINE DESCRIBES HOW STRANGERS’ GIFTS MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR THOSE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS. PAGE 9 A RECIPE FOR SANTA VOICE VENDOR JOHN ALEXANDER WRITES ABOUT THE TIME HE MET SANTA AND SHARED HIS BAR-BQUE TURKEY RECIPE. PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 11 DECEMBER 2022 | Vol.27 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 JOHN ALEXANDER

EDITOR’S NOTE THE DECEMBER 2022 ISSUE of the Denver VOICE has been my favorite to put together this year. I think you all will enjoy the designs our vendors have come up with for the wrapping paper insert. You can read which vendors inspired this year’s festive designs on page 7. Because our recipes last ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR December were a hit with our readers, we are introducing new recipes for 2022. There is a variety of recipes to fit every budget. You’ll find appetizers like Vegan Haystacks or Hawaiian-Style Spam; main dishes like Grilled Basil Chicken or Chicken LeBlanc; and desserts like Chocolate Fudge Cake, which is a recipe from the Great Depression Era. There are also recipes for tamales, pasta sauce, and a few options for turkey stuffing or dressing. I hope you enjoy looking over the recipes, or even better, I hope you’ll make a few (or all) of them. If you do make any of the recipes, we’d love to see how the dishes came out, so feel free to take a photo and email it to editor@denvervoice.org. Thank you for all of the encouragement and support you have given the Denver VOICE over the past year. We would not have a successful program without you! Happy Holidays, Elisabeth ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG @deeOCE INTERIM OPERATIONS MANAGER Nikki Lawson MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTOR BRIAN AUGUSTINE has been a Denver VOICE vendor for12 years and is happy to have an opportunity to share his experiences in his “Back to the Streets” column for the VOICE. 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. PROGRAM COORDINATOR Connie Gaitan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Breez Rea Brown Raelene Johnson Gigi Galen Jerry Rosen WRITERS/RECIPE PROVIDERS John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Albert Bland Breez Rea Brown Connie Gaitan John Golden Raelene Johnson Nikki Lawson Elisabeth Monaghan Cabal Yarne BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chris Boulanger, President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary 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. 2 DENVER VOICE December 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US PROGRAM UPDATES INTRODUCING CONNIE GAITAN, PROGRAM COORDINATOR BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN THE DENVER VOICE IS DELIGHTED to introduce Connie Gaitan, who stepped in as program coordinator in late October. Gaitan came to the VOICE after spending several years in education, where she worked closely with faculty, as well as students and their families. Already, we know that she is super-efficient, has an abundance of patience, a delightful sense of humor, and an infectious laugh. She is also an incredible cook and baker. Welcome to the team, Connie! ■ WINTER DONATIONS MADE EASY During the winter, Denver VOICE vendors experience increased heating and housing costs. Meanwhile, their income decreases because cold temperatures means less foot traffic and fewer paper sales. If you would like to help out your vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! @DenverVOICE CREDIT: ELISABETH MONAGHAN HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. December 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

HOLIDAY RECIPES A variety of recipes from Denver VOICE vendors, board members, and staff to keep you warm during the holidays! FUDGE CAKE Nikki Lawson, Interim VOICE Operations Manager, Long-time Volunteer & Board Member This is my grandmother’s recipe, dating back to the Great Depression. INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 C. Brown sugar ☐ 3/4 C. Melted butter ☐ 2 Eggs ☐ 1 C. Flour (it also turns out great with GF fl our) ☐ 2 T. Cocoa powder ☐ 1/4 C. Walnuts (optional) STEPS: 1. 2 T. cocoa 2. 2 T. melted butter 3. 2 T. milk or cream 4. Add powdered sugar to desired consistency 5. Beat eggs, add sugar and butter. Mix in fl our, cocoa and nuts. Bake at 300 degrees for 40 minutes. Mix icing ingredients well and ice while hot. HUNGER-ENDING CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP Brian Augustine, VOICE Vendor INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 Package of chicken fl avor ramen ☐ 1 Small can of chicken breast ☐ 1 Small can of mixed vegetables ☐ 1 Bag of Cheetos ☐ Optional cheese for topping (I use two different cheeses) ☐ Optional seasoning (to your liking) STEPS: 1. Break apart ramen packet. 2. Put in microwave-safe bowl. 3. Add the spice packet. Then add any other seasoning you’d like to include. 4. Fill the bowl with water to the desired level. 5. Cook in microwave for 1.5 minutes. 6. Stir thoroughly. 7. Add chicken breast can contents, liquid and all. 8. Drian mixed vegetables and add them to the bowl. 9. Stir again. 10. If desired, sprinkle the cheese on top. 11. Cook again in the microwave for 2 minutes. 12. Add a little cold water to stop the noodles from cooking. 13. Smash up Cheetos. Mix them in with the soup. INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 lb. Butter ☐ 1 lb. / 1 Package mozarella cheese ☐ 1 Package of sliced ham ☐ 24 oz. Jar of marinara sauce ☐ 8 Pieces of chicken breast ☐ Salt & pepper/other seasonings to your liking STEPS: 1. Tenderize chicken breast and season. 2. Blend butter with garlic, salt & pepper, and cheese. 3. Roll ham in the mixture & wrap around chicken breast pieces. 4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet & pour marinara sauce over it. 5. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. 6. Serve with steamed veggies/green beans. 7. Blend butter with garlic, salt & pepper, and cheese. INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1-1 lb. Loaf of White Bread ☐ 3 Ribs of Celery, fi nely chopped ☐ 1/4 C. Leaves from Tender Inner Ribs, very fi nely chopped ☐ 1/2 C. Onion, fi nely chopped ☐ 2 T. Parsley ☐ 3 T Poultry Seasoning(to taste) ☐ 1 & 1/2 t. Salt ☐ 1/2 t. Fresh Ground Pepper ☐ 1 & 1/2 to 2 C. Broth, Swanson’s Chicken Broth is good ☐ Additional broth to moisturize if needed. ☐ 4 T. Butter ☐ 1 Egg ☐ 1/2 C. Milk ☐ 1 Turkey liver ☐ Optional - 1/4 C. White soda of any kind; adds to the fl avor. HAWAIIAN-STYLE SPAM MUSUBI, OR ALOHA SNACK Breez, VOICE Vendor INGREDIENTS: ☐3 C.s of Cooked rice ☐1 Can of Spam ☐3 Sheets of Nori (seaweed) ☐½ t. of Furikaki seasoning (optional) ☐3 Eggs (optional) ☐2 T. of Teriyaki or soy sauce ☐2 T. of White cooking wine ☐2 t. of Sugar ☐1 Clove of garlic (sliced thinly or crushed) ☐Sesame seeds (optional) STEPS: 1. Cut nori into 3-inch-wide strips. 2. Slice Spam into 1-inch lengths (comes out to 9-10 slices). 3. Fry Spam in a pan for 3-4 minutes on each side. 4. Add teriyaki sauce to the pan and fl ip both sides (1-2 min.). 5. Place a sheet of nori on a plate. 6. Add a scoop of rice on top of the nori and press down. 7. Add the cooked Spam next. 8. Wet the ends of the nori with the teriyaki sauce and fold to the middle, with the garlic (crushed inside, or folded, if the garlic is sliced). 9. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. 10. Serve hot, or wrap in plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator. STEPS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 2. Cut bread into 1/2-inch squares. Best to dry overnight. Or you can put them in the oven for day on warm. (If you use the oven method, watch, so they do not toast.) 3. In a large bowl, mix bread crumbs and poultry seasoning. Set aside. 4. In a large skillet, put 1 & 1/2 C. broth & butter, heat on medium until butter is melted. Add celery, celery leaves, parsley, salt, pepper, onions, and turkey Liver. When turkey liver just starts to lose the red color, take it out, smash it with a fork, and cut up to a mush, very, very small. 5. Put it back in broth mixture. 6. Cook until celery and onions are tender. Add broth as needed. 7. Pour the broth mixture over the bread. 8. Take a small bowl, mix up egg like you are scrambling it. 9. Add milk to the egg. Pour this over the bread/broth mix. 10. *Optional white soda can be added here. 11. Mix thoroughly together. (I taste it to see if it needs more poultry seasoning. The poultry seasoning gets stronger in cooking, so be careful.) 12. You do not want the mix to be soggy, it should appear moist but fi rm. Turkey Method: Rinse the inside of the turkey thoroughly with cold water, Salt inside of both ends. Stuff with dressing and sew the skin fl aps onto the turkey. Baking Dish Method: 1. Lightly butter a baking dish large enough to hold the stuffi ng. (It can mound up a little.) 2. Drizzle with 1/2 C broth. 3. Cover and cook in a preheated oven at 350, for 30-45 min. 4. For crusty stuffi ng, remove cover for the last 15 min. CHICKEN LEBLANC Lando Allen, VOICE Vendor POULTRY STUFFING Cabal Yarne, VOICE Board Member 4 DENVER VOICE December 2022 VEGAN HAYSTACKS Rea Brown, VOICE Vendor TAMALES (1 DOZ.) Connie Gaitan, VOICE Program Coordinator If you follow these directions, you’re going to be full, and you’re going to be happy. INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 Bag of corn chip scoops ☐ 1 Container of 50/50 lettuce or romaine lettuce ☐ 1 Can of black beans ☐ Vegan crumbles (You can fi nd this ground beef substitute in the frozen food section of your neighborhood grocery store.) ☐ Salsa for topping STEPS: 1. Heat the beans in a microwave or on the stove (leave a little liquid from the can). 2. Flavor the beans to your liking with spices like cumin, garlic, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, etc.) 3. Lay the chips on large plate, spread evenly. 4. Spread the lettuce evenly over the chips 5. Spread the vegan crumbles on top of the lettuce 6. Top the crumbles with the heated black beans 7. Top off the stack with the salsa 8. Eat like nachos, or use leftover corn chip scoops for dipping. INGREDIENTS: ☐ 2 Garlic cloves ☐ 1 Bag of red chili pods ☐ 1 Bag (16 oz.) of corn husks ☐ 3 lb. pork butt/beef shoulder ☐ 2 lb. ready-made masa STEPS: 1. Boil chili pods until soft. 2. Boil meat until tender. 3. Soak corn husks in warm water until soft. 4. In a blender, add chili pods with boiled water, 1 clove of garlic (add more, to taste). 5. Shred meat/chili mixture, season with cumin (make sure this is moist). 6. Once all ingredients are prepped, you can start to assemble the tamales. 7. Take a dry corn husk and spread masa on it. 8. Add meat/chili mixture in the middle, then fold the tamale. 9. Place tamales in a steamer. 10. Steam for 2-4 hours until the masa pulls away from the corn husk. DELICIOUS TURKEY DRESSING MADE FROM SCRATCH (FOR UNDER $20) Albert Bland, VOICE Vendor INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 Whole chicken ☐ 4 Boxes of Jiffy cornmeal ☐ 2 Eggs ☐ 2 C. of milk ☐ 1 Whole onion ☐ 2-4 Jalapeno peppers ☐ 1 Green bell pepper ☐ 1 Red bell pepper ☐ 1 T. Curry ☐ 1.5 T. Accent Flavor Enhancer ☐ Black pepper to taste ☐ 1 Box chicken broth or 1 package of gravy STEPS: 1. Chop each vegetable so there is at least 1 C. of each. 2. Bake whole chicken at 350 degrees for about 1-2 hours, until crisp and golden-brown. 3. Mix cornmeal with eggs and milk until mix is smooth, then pour mix into 2 (2 inch) pans. 4. Put the pans in the oven and bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until the mix is crisp and golden-brown. 5. Once chicken and cornmeal are done, place the baked chicken in aluminum pan. 6. Surround the chicken with the chopped vegetables and cornmeal mix. 7. Add seasonings along with broth or gravy. 8. Put in oven at 350 degrees for at least 2 hours, or until dressing is crisp and golden-brown. 9. When the chicken dressing has fi nished baking, pull it out of the oven and let it cool. 10. Serve and enjoy! GRILLED BASIL CHICKEN Elisabeth Monaghan, VOICE Managing Editor ITALIAN PASTA SAUCE (FAMILY RECIPE) John Golden, Outgoing VOICE Executive Director INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 T. Olive oil ☐ 1 Large onion, chopped ☐ 3 Large cloves garlic, minced ☐ 2 (28 oz.) Cans tomato sauce ☐ 1 (28 oz.) Can diced tomatoes ☐ 1 T. White sugar ☐ 1 (6 oz.) Can tomato paste ☐ ½ C. Grated parmesan cheese ☐ 3 T. Dried basil leaves ☐ 3 T. Italian seasoning ☐ Garlic salt & black pepper to taste STEPS: 1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir chopped onion and minced garlic in hot oil until the onion is translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. 2. Sit tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, sugar, Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and pepper with the onion/garlic mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, add parmesan cheese, and cook at a simmer, stirring frequently, for 45 minutes. Many of you don’t like Spam, but this tastes different. The Spam fl avor is not too overpowering. INGREDIENTS: ☐ 1 Can of Spam 2 if you like Spam) ☐ 4 Large potatoes ☐ 1 8-16 oz. Bag cheddar cheese ☐ 1 Can French-cut green beans, or peas if you prefer STEPS: 1. Peel the potatoes. (Only if you like peeled potatoes. I like them with the peel on.) 2. Cube then boil potatoes. 3. Cube Spam then fry it. 4. Add spices to your liking as the Spam cooks. 5. When the potatoes are mostly soft, drain the water. 6. Add the potatoes to the Spam. 7. Mix thoroughly. 8. Drain the can of vegetables, then, spread over the top. 9. Cube cheese and sprinkle over the whole thing. 10. Cover and wait for the cheese to melt. 11. I like lightly toasted sourdough bread to go with it, but you can add bread or rolls if that’s your preference. SPAM SURPRISE Brian Augustine, VOICE Vendor INGREDIENTS: ☐ 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes ☐ 1-2 cloves minced garlic ☐ 1/2 C. chopped fresh basil ☐ Olive oil ☐ ¼ C. Soy sauce ☐ 1/4 – 1/2 C. Chicken broth ☐ Extra chicken broth if needed ☐ 1/8 t. Red pepper fl akes (more if you like it spicier) ☐ 2 C. Cooked rotini pasta STEPS: 1. Heat a large pan on the stove with about 2 T. of olive oil and cook. 2. When the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic until it is soft (about 30 seconds) 3. Add the chicken broth. 4. Add the cut-up chicken and lower the heat to simmer. 5. Add the red pepper fl akes. 6. Add a little more broth if necessary 7. Cover the pan. 8. Let the chicken cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. (Check to make sure that there is enough liquid to keep everything moist) 9. After the chicken has cooked on each side, add the soy sauce and basil and stir. 10. Scoop the cooked noodles onto a plate and top them with the grilled basil chicken. Add a bit of the liquid for added moisture and fl avor. December 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

BAR-B-QUE TURKEY: A RECIPE FOR SANTA John Alexander, VOICE Vendor WELL, HERE WE ARE AGAIN, and this year, as last year, I want to share another one of my favorite holiday recipes, only this time, I want to share some of my favorite childhood Christmas memories. It was the night before Christmas when all through our house, you couldn’t hear a mouse because of all the noise we were making. I mean we were playing instruments and singing carols and dancing merrily — but not a creature was cold because we knew how to dress for that time of year. One particular night, when I was about 4 or 5, I wanted to do something special for Santa, and then, the idea came to me. Instead of milk and cookies, I left Santa a bowl of snow cream (homemade ice cream made with snow). This was one of my father’s recipes. Instead of milk, I left Santa a tall, cold glass of pumpkin wine (another of my father’s recipes). (What? Do you really think I was upstairs, tucked in my bed fast asleep? No! I was hiding and watching for Santa like all little kids my age, all over the world do.) This went on every Christmas for the next few years. I was about 11 years old the night I met Santa. I had joined the Boy Scouts and was working on many merit badges. I had taken great interest in cooking. I learned from the Boy Scouts how to cook over campfires, while my mother taught me her cooking techniques in the kitchen. One of my favorite recipes was Bar-B-Que Turkey. So, on this particular night, I left Santa the usual snow cream and pumpkin wine, but I also left a big Bar-B-Que turkey leg. I was at my neighbor’s that night and realized it was getting late. I knew I’d better get home before Santa came. I rushed home and OH MY GOD! The doors were locked, and I couldn’t get in. Waking my parents was out of the question, so I climbed through a window. It was then I heard a voice. No, I didn’t hear the words “Ho, ho, ho.” Instead, the voice told me, “It’s a lot easier if you take the chimney!” It was him. It was Santa! I was shocked. (Where did he put that big sleigh?) So, I closed the window and my mouth. I walked over to Santa, and we introduced ourselves. Santa was very interested in the turkey leg and told me to promise him I would tell my mother what a great cook she was. I let him I would. I also told him that the food he was enjoying was my cooking. Santa was amazed and asked, “You mean, you know the recipe? Would you share it with me?” I told him, “Santa, I will write it down for you right now.” AND THIS IS WHAT I WROTE: “Get yourself a nice big turkey and prepare it the same way you do any turkey you cook — with stuffing and everything — the dressing made with breadcrumbs, cornbread, Stove Top stuffing, etc. (In my dressing, I like to add lemon juice, pepper, and a diced yellow onion.) “And don’t forget those delicious turkey legs, or drumsticks, as some people call them! “Roast the turkey at the usual temperature (duration will vary, based on the turkey’s size.) “When the turkey is roasted to perfection, you slice the turkey, carve it into slices about a quarter-inch thick and serve it traditional style.” And then, I told him how to make the turkey Bar-B-Que-style: “To make your turkey Bar-B-Que-style, you take the turkey legs and breast. Follow Steps 1 through 4 from the first part of the recipe. “Next, get your favorite homemade or store-bought Bar-B-Que sauce and a Bar-B-Que brush for the sauce. “Take those turkey legs and brush them with the Bar-B-Que sauce. Now, wrap those turkey legs in foil — firm, but not too tight. Slice the rest of the turkey into quarter-inch slices, and do the same thing with the turkey you’ve cut up. “Next, take the Bar-B-Que sauce and your Bar-B-Que brush and spread a thin layer of the sauce over the dressing. Place a cover over or wrap that part of the turkey firmly with foil, and place them on a heated grill. “Bake the turkey and dressing slowly until they come to a simmer. “Let the turkey cool down a bit, and now, it is ready to serve. “Santa, I have now shown you two styles of turkey and dressing to serve, along with all of your other favorites, like potato salad, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, pies, cakes, etc.” NOW, NOW, NOW, READERS! Let’s keep good thoughts about Santa. By sampling the food and having me write down my recipe for him, he was not getting lazy or loafing on the job. You see, a few years earlier, Santa and Rudolph had worked hard to figure out how they could deliver presents all over the world and still have the time to stop and leisurely spend time with anyone of their choosing. Who do you think was one of the lucky ones to be on that list? ME! By the time I met Santa, he and Rudolph had perfected their plan to deliver to everyone all over the world and were able to get to me last. You see, I lived in St. Paul, Minnesota. Santa was so happy because that year after everyone’s presents had been delivered on time, he still had time to visit my house. Then, he and his reindeer could leave Minnesota and hurry back home to the North Pole, where it was warm — well, much warmer than Minnesota. Santa returned home with a new recipe and sample dishes for Mrs. Clause, along with some pumpkin wine. SO NOW THAT YOU’VE READ MY STORY, remember there are two ways to Bar-B-Que turkey. One, you bake in your oven, covered with foil or an oven-proof lid, or, you can take those nice drumsticks and cook them right on the grill, Bar-B-Que style, which is the wa I moved away from Minnesota, sev a a and I haven’t seen Santa since. But w on e each other again when I buy me a hou chimney. And even though I haven’t him, I can tell you that sometimes on Christmas Eve, I hear in the distance, a loud HO, HO, HO! ■ 6 DENVER VOICE December 2022 WRAPPING PAPER 2022 Special Issue This seventh-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. BRIAN AUGUSTINE JERRY ROSEN JOHN ALEXANDER LANDO ALLEN RAELENE JOHNSON REA BROWN December 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

IN YOUR OWN WORDS HOW GOOD IT FEELS TO BE OUT OF DEBT, SELF! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA HOW GREAT IT FEELS TO PAY OFF ALL YOUR BILLS, SELF! Sometimes, you chose not to go out or spend money on things you didn’t need or could really afford – that is the problem with credit cards, TVs, or radios, saying things like “buy this or that thing” – to make you feel better about Self because you bought those things. You don’t think about all the interest you’re building up when you use a credit card. The bank or company that sent you the card gets richer. They advertise because they want to make money by making us believe we really need their products, while the person using credit cards to buy those things keeps getting further into debt. Self, thank God you know that before Self spends money, you first ask, “Do I really need this right now, or is it something I just want?” Can you save money over time to buy it? Does Self need to spend money because something broke down? Are you buying something because you feel hurt, and buying new things just makes you feel good for a short time? And then, you get the credit card statement and find out how much you spent. Now, Self, you probably spent more than you should have. So, Self, remember to think about your spending, or you will be making payments on something not really needed. Self, I thank you for learning this lesson of not having to pay interest on those things you didn’t buy because you didn’t really need them. The freedom of being debt-free is the best feeling ever! Thank you, Self, for being debt-free! P.S. Get, ready, Self, because our next “Self talk” is going to be a great way to start the New Year! ■ ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN 8 DENVER VOICE December 2022 IN YOUR OWN WORDS THE GIFT OF GIVING, AND THE GRACE OF GRATITUDE BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE, VOICE VENDOR he couldn’t see people coming. One day, he was staring at his phone, when a man came up to him to buy a paper. The man asked John what he was doing. John said that he was just checking the time and explained his eye condition. The man then gave John a twenty-dollar bill for the paper. A few days later, the man came by and handed John a gift. It was a watch and, when you pressed the button on it, there was a voice that said the time. It’s the thought that counts., and this one counted a lot. The man’s gift was noticing a problem and finding a solution for it. My story is similar. I used to wear an Air Force Academy coat. One morning, the zipper broke, so I was exposed to freezing temperatures. A man walking past saw me and said, “You should zip your coat up.” “I can’t. It’s broken,” was all I could say. A little while later, I was getting ready to go and warm up, when the same man walked up, handed me a large bag, and said, “Happy holidays.” When he was gone, I went into a Starbucks and looked at what he gave me. In the bag was a heavy coat. As I pulled it out, my surprise was even bigger. He had given me a parka with the Denver Broncos logo. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a big Broncos fan. I had never seen the man before this encounter, and I haven’t seen him since, but he saw that I was in need and gave me the gift of filling that need. Being homeless again, one thing I’ve noticed is the lack of appreciation from the homeless who are out there now. There is no, “Excuse me, Sir, do you have a cigarette I could have?” or, “Excuse me, Miss, do you have a dollar you could spare?” I hear very few say “thank you,” to those who give them cigarettes or spare dollars. So, let me take a minute to say this to you, Beloved Ladies and Gentlemen. Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your kindness. Thank you for your time and consideration, and most of all, thank you for listening to what I have to say. ■ BRIAN AUGUSTINE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN I LOVE SAYING, “MERRY CHRISTMAS.” It’s the only holiday that says merry instead of happy. The holiday season is special to the homeless – even if those experiencing homelessness are too depressed and don’t like to admit it to themselves. They still reap the benefits of the giving season. We receive our winter needs of warm hats, scarves, and gloves. (By the way, if you wish to donate gloves, keep in mind that the “one-size-fits-all” variety is great for people with small hands and for children, but they don’t fit a lot of adults.) We even get some hand and toe warmers. We also receive gift cards for places where we can get hot drinks and warm food in our bellies. There is also a group of bikers that hands out one-hundred-dollar bills. I’ve seen some really special and thoughtful gifts during the season of giving over the years. I watched a man in a nice suit step up to a large angry homeless man wearing a tattered coat with a dirty rippedup blanket. Handing the homeless man a heavy coat and a thick comforter, the man in the suit smiled and said, “Merry Christmas,” and then he walked away quickly. The homeless guy just stared after him with a look of bewilderment. (I believe the other man’s real gift was bravery.) Then, there is my friend John. He was a vendor for the Denver VOICE and worked by the Clock Tower on the 16th Street Mall. But, he is legally blind and has foggy tunnel vision. Because of his eyes. he wasn’t very successful as a vendor, as ILLUSTRATION BY BEEZ December 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

DONOR 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 $10,000+ Rose Community Foundation Max and Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Bank of America Charitable Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Walker Family Foundation Katherine Standiford Whole Foods Foundation Jill Haug Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Chris and Susan Pappas Russell Peterson Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Keyrenter Property Management Denver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren and Betty Kuehner Matthew Seashore Michael Dino Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 John Gibson Fire on the Mountain Christopher Boulanger Maggie Holben Sheryl Parker Laura Saunders Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Donald Weaver Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremy Anderson Stephen Saul WalMart 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 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 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! 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 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 10 DENVER VOICE December 2022 EVENTS THE MILE HIGH TREE Create a new holiday tradition with this free, immersive audio/visual event. WHEN: Every night in December from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. INFO: denver.org/milehighholidays/tree DOWNTOWN DENVER ICE RINK Bring your friends and family to this outdoor rink, located right in the middle of downtown Denver. WHEN: Open daily through December. COST: Adult skate rentals are $11; $9 for kids 12 and under. Bring your own pair and skate for free. WHERE: Skyline Park, 1601 Arapahoe St INFO: winterindenver.com/rink APRÈS SKI HOLIDAY MARKET Inspired by a quaint, European ski village, this annual holiday market will feature a wide variety of vendors, food/drink specials, and holiday entertainment. WHEN: Dec 2 – 4, Dec 9 – 11, Dec 16 – 18; Fri 4 – 8 p.m.; Sat + Sun 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Dairy Block Alley, 1800 Wazee St. INFO: dairyblock.com BLACK SHEEP FRIDAYS With just the right amount of sophisticated nonsense, Black Sheep Fridays provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the museum in a whole new way. This month’s events include a Beyoncé dance party, a Disney trivia pajama party, and an XXX-mas Craft Fair. WHEN: Dec 2 and 19 at 6 p.m. and December 16 at 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. COST: $5 - $20 WHERE: MCA Denver, 1485 Delgany St. INFO: mcadenver.org/events NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS What better way to start the new year than with explosions in the sky? Two shows to delight both the early birds and the late-night revelers. Look up and love the one you’re with. WHEN: Dec 31, 9 p.m. and midnight COST: Free WHERE: 16th Street Mall INFO: denver.org ACROSS 1. Gave someone a hand? 6. “Supernatural” network 11. World Service provider 14. Race of Norse gods (anagram of ARISE) 15. Xerox rival (anagram of CHOIR) 16. In the style of 17. Doesn’t bother 19. Yang’s counterpart 20. Make into law 21. Sings like Bing 23. Regular patron (anagram of I.E., AT HUB) 26. Is so minded (to) 27. Skilled speech-giver 28. Smear 29. Any “Seinfeld,” now 30. Fools 31. “Th e Lord of the Rings” fi gure 34. Food stamp abbr. 35. Summer clothing portmanteau 36. ___ Day vitamins 37. Catchall abbr. 38. “Jojo Rabbit” director Waititi 39. ___ mortis 40. Big shot 42. Type of republic 43. Modern no-no in many indoor public settings 45. Avoided court 46. Knight’s tunic (anagram of BAD ART) 47. Second-stringers 48. Andean tuber 49. Unintended consequences 54. Physicist Georg with a unit named aft er him (and its reciprocal unit is his name backwards!) 55. Immune response orchestrator 56. Occupied, as a lavatory 57. “New Rules” singer ___ Lipa 58. Gossipmonger 59. Chance for a hit DOWN 1. Spicy lentil stew 2. A foot wide? 3. Simile words 4. Party hearty 5. Capital on the Delaware 6. Small amount 7. Sword handle 8. “Foucault’s Pendulum” author Umberto 9. Admits 10. Declaration starter 11. Northeastern part of the Indian Ocean 12. Pancakes served with sour cream 13. “Mend when thou ___”: King Lear 18. Lizard’s tail? 22. Th e Buckeyes: Abbr. 23. Fool (around) 24. Don’t exist 25. US president born in Honolulu 26. Nasal dividers (whose etymology has nothing to do with a certain month, despite the resemblance) 28. Modest covering 30. “Nothing ___!” 32. Sierra ___ 33. Unit of capacitance 35. Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes 36. Salve 38. Panting for a potable 39. Sweet cordial (anagram of AT A FAIR) 41. Wanted poster letters 42. Strengthen, with “up” 43. Lost a lap 44. ___ Picchu 45. Inscribed pillar (anagram of LEAST) 47. Boxing trophy 50. Trophy locale 51. Baby bear 52. Bag-checking org. 53. Collector’s goal COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS December 2022 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

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE ADAPTING ADAPT TE CHANGE, THE INUIT MUST ADAPT ONCE AGAIN. PAGE 6 WHAT POVERTY DOES TO CHILDREN A CHILDHOOD OF POVERTY CAN SHAPE PEOPLE THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES. PAGE 8 A VOICE FOR THE HOMELESS: INSPIRED BY HIS LIVED EXPERIENCE AND ENCOUNTERS WITH HOMELESS DURING THE PEAK OF THE PANDEMIC, ERIC PROTEIN MOSELEY CREATES AN UNFORGETTABLE DOCUMENTARY. PAGE 5 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 NOVEMBER 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 11 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) REMEMBERING VICTOR BOWIE FROM YOUR VENDOR: REUTERS/MELISSA RENWICK

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR WITH THE ARRIVAL OF NOVEMBER comes the holiday season, and many folks are working on their lists of what gifts they’d like to receive for Christmas, Hanukkah, or whichever holiday they celebrate. Meanwhile, instead of listing presents they’d like to receive, individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty are hoping they can find what they need — even if it’s someone else’s discards. We post our Wish List in every issue of the VOICE, but donated clothes or personal items — like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap/body wash, and feminine hygiene products — go fast. So, if you happen to be cleaning out closets or are getting rid of any sample-sized toiletries, I hope you will consider putting them aside for Denver VOICE vendors or anyone in need. For those who have come by our office to drop off clothing or toiletries, I wish you could see the vendors’ reactions to your generosity. It never gets old watching someone’s face light up, when a donated coat or pair of shoes fits them. Suddenly, the concerning hole in their boots or the tattered jacket that no longer keeps them warm, is no longer an issue. Thank you, Denver VOICE Readers and Supporters, for your kindness. Your thoughtfulness really does make a difference. Note: If you have any of these items or cold weather wear and would like to donate them to the VOICE, you can call our office between 9 a.m. and noon, Monday through Friday, or leave a message. One of our staff members will be happy to coordinate a time that works for you to drop them off. ■ ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Nikki Lawson MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS BRIAN AUGUSTINE has been a Denver VOICE vendor for12 years and is happy to have an opportunity to share his experiences in his “Back to the Streets” column for the VOICE. ASHTON BROWN graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in convergent journalism and a minor in cinema studies. She and her fiance currently live with their two cats in Lakewood. 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. 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 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. 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. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Gigi Galen WRITERS Brian Augustine Ashton Brown Rea Brown Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen Rodney Woolfolk BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chris Boulanger, President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE 2 DENVER VOICE November 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VENDOR MEMORIAL A TRIBUTE TO VICTOR BOWIE BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE AND BELINDA BOWIE Recently, the Denver VOICE community lost one of its treasured members, Vendor # 107 Victor Bowie. The following is a tribute VOICE Vendor Brian Augustine wrote for Victor, followed by thoughts Belinda Bowie shared on Victor and his love for the Denver VOICE. FROM BRIAN AUGUSTINE Victor Bowie’s greatest joy was vending the Denver VOICE. He was always excited when the newest issue came out. He was also a big supporter of his fellow vendors. He was happy whenever a vendor had a story, drawing, or photo published in the issue because they were putting themselves out there. If a vendor needed papers and didn’t have the money to purchase them, Victor lent them the cash. He told me once he never worried about being paid back because he knew they wouldn’t ask for another loan until they’d repaid the debt. It wasn’t about a borrower feeling guilty about asking for another loan, but rather, a sense of obligation to Victor and his generosity. Victor was a friend to everyone he met, and his death leaves a hole in our world that no one else can ever fill. Thank you, God, for loaning him to us. FROM BELINDA BOWIE “Victor could have become a paralegal, he was so smart. When he came into my life, I was facing possible jail time for PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DENVER VOICE The Denver VOICE family extends its condolences to Belinda, Makiya, and all of the others who loved him and whose lives he touched. ■ something, but he stepped in on my behalf. He went up to that courthouse and told the judge, ‘I’ll help her out. I’ll take responsibility. You don’t have to worry about her. I’ll get her on the right track.’” Shortly after that, Belinda learned about the Denver VOICE. “In 2008, I became a vendor. Uncle Jerome (Cotton) told me about the VOICE and showed me how to vend, and then, I showed Victor how to vend. Then, we showed Uncle Johnny (John Alexander).” For the first four years, Victor and Belinda were just good friends, but after a brief stay in Mississippi, the two went to Georgia, and that’s when they started dating. “After Georgia, we went to Kansas, where I met Victor’s daughter Makiya along with Victor’s brothers and sisters. After that, when we moved back to Denver. Makiya wanted to come with us, so it was Victor, his little girl, me, and my two girls living together, and that year (2012), we got married.” Describing the things that gave Victor joy, Belinda explained, “He LOVED vending the paper! Victor vended the paper every day. When we went to Kansas, he talked about starting a street paper because he loved vending so much. He also loved his daughter, and he loved me.” HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. November 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

AUTUMN WISH LIST Now that the temperatures are colder, we have updated our list. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks Carrier bags USB-C charging cables ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q Which athlete on one of the Denver teams would you invite to Thanksgiving dinner, and why? A BRIAN AUGUSTINE I’d invite Bradley Chubb. I’ve watched him in interviews, and I like his personality. Also, he is a big man, so Thanksgiving for him must a fantastic affair. We could watch some football and talk about the charities that are close to both of our hearts. I would really like to see if we could be friends. REA BROWN Of all the people I could choose from, Kanye West, Dwight Howard or D Rose, etc. It would be nice, I suppose, to devour even cold, especially if it snowed in the flesh, not as a ghost. Mohammad Ali and Floyd (MONEY) Mayweather, just to hear Champions talk together (R.I.P. Ali) so, probably, Floyd and Mike, I pray they don’t fight over broccoli. JERRY ROSEN I would invite the Denver Nuggets for Thanksgiving, as they do such a good job, and they work really hard. RODNEY K. WOOLFOLK I’d invite Russell Wilson, Bronco’s quarterback, to talk about his Grammy Award and discuss game strategies, and whether he thinks we can make the playoffs. (I’d also invite Wilson’s gorgeous wife Ciarra!!!) 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. 4 DENVER VOICE November 2022 What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. COMMUNITY PROFILE DOCUMENTARY REVEALS THE HOMELESS EXPERIENCE IN THE EARLY DAYS OF THE PANDEMIC BY ASHTON BROWN ERIC PROTEIN MOSELEY, the director of the documentary “Homeless Coronavirus Outreach,” knows the struggle of homelessness all too well. Moseley was raised by a single parent in Detroit, Mich. He joined a gang, started experimenting with drugs, took up gambling, and dropped out of school — all before the 10th grade. Moseley’s downward spiral continued until he ended up a single father, who was responsible for raising his young daughter. During this time, he developed a crack cocaine addiction and was homeless. He also traveled across the country with his daughter. After a near overdose, Moseley overcame his addiction. He has been sober since 2001 and is a devout Christian. “It was by the grace of God I was able to come out of that,” Moseley said. In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Moseley traveled to San Francisco, where he met with people experiencing homelessness. He wasn’t that surprised to learn that five out of 10 of those with whom he spoke hadn’t even heard of the virus. By the time the COVID-19 pandemic reached its peak, a significant number of individuals experienced job loss and were unable to find affordable housing, leaving many of them unhoused. Seeing how people experiencing homelessness were treated during the early days of the pandemic inspired Moseley to produce “Homeless Coronavirus Outreach.” “Nobody even speaks to homeless people. Nobody cares, basically. There’s no channel that gives those experiencing homelessness an opportunity to tell their side of the story, so that’s what I did,” said Moseley. Based on his experience, Moseley believes there are three different types of homeless: upper, middle, and lower. According to Moseley, upper homeless are people trying their hardest to make it back into society. They usually can keep a somewhat stable job. The lower homeless are individuals who have accepted their situation and are actively living on the streets. They also may have a drug habit. The middle homeless are those who are trying not to fall into the lower homeless but are struggling too much to be in the upper. “I believe that the underprivileged communities are more valuable to those experimenting with a controlled substance than others,” Moseley said. Moseley also recognizes that people can have the best neighborhood, and still, addiction can find them. “While being homeless, it can be near impossible to juggle more than one thing,” he said. Moseley believes that about 75% of people experiencing homelessness suffer from some sort of addiction. “When you get caught up in that, you don’t want to deal with your regular problems because you’re trying to take care of the drug addiction; it’s just like a hamster on a wheel. You’re not getting anywhere,” he said. Moseley feels one way to reach out to an ignored community is to simply learn about them. “Learn how to speak urban language. Learn how to speak how the people on the streets talk and learn how they think,” he said. This approach bridges the divide between individuals and makes them feel heard. According to Moseley, as long as a profit is being made [by private companies such as homeless shelters], politicians will continue to look the other way, and a true solution to homelessness will never be reached. Moseley continues to travel around the country and is in the process of making his next social impact documentary. Denver Community Media is currently airing the 29-minute documentary “Homeless Coronavirus Outreach” on community access channels. It is also available for free on YouTube.■ teaching and live in the best PHOTO: COURTESY OF ERIC PROTEIN MOSELEY IMAGE: D-WORD.COM November 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE nearly four times as fast as the global average between 1979 and 2021 – far faster than the two or three times the global average usually cited. Separate modeling by experts in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States shows that as soon as 2035, Arctic sea ice might drop below 1 million square kilometers during the summer. Scientists recorded this year’s sea ice minimum on 18 September, which was tied for the tenth lowest on record. The Inuit are practical when it comes to new technology. They use GPS but still teach their children how the prevailing winds cause the snowbanks to lean and point the way home if the device’s batteries die. Skidoos, also known as snowmobiles, have mostly replaced dog sleds and have compressed week-long hunts into day trips. Rifles have replaced harpoons. SmartICE is another tool. And so, with a black-and-red Skidoo, a rifle, and an electromagnetic sensor, Holwell offers a vision of survival that joins the old and the new. “We have to adapt to climate change,” he says. “We’re going to need more tools like SmartICE.” REX HOLWELL, 47, RIDES A SKIDOO DURING A WEEKLY SMARTKAMUTIK RUN TOWARDS NAIN BAY, A POPULAR FISHING SPOT FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN NAIN, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, CANADA, APRIL 21, 2022. THE SMARTKAMUTIK USES ELECTROMAGNETIC SENSORS TO MEASURE THE SEA ICE THICKNESS AND GIVE NORTHERN COMMUNITIES REAL-TIME MEASUREMENTS OF SEA THICKNESS ALONG THEIR ICE “HIGHWAYS” THROUGH A WEBSITE, DOWNLOADABLE PHONE APP OR FACEBOOK. “WE’RE THE FIRST PEOPLE TO BE SEEING THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE, BUT ON THE FLIP SIDE, WE’RE THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE LEAST TO DO WITH IT”, SAYS HOLWELL. “WE HAVE TO ADAPT.” REUTERS/MELISSA RENWICK CLIMATE CHANGE MEANS THE INUIT DO WHAT THEY’VE ALWAYS DONE: ADAPT BY MELISSA RENWICK REX HOLWELL HAS SPENT HIS LIFE on the sea ice that forms each winter off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador in eastern Canada. Like other Inuit, he learned to hunt seals and fish from his father and other men. They would skim over the sea ice, first on dog sleds and then, by the time Holwell started accompanying them, on gasoline-powered Skidoos. Holwell wants this life – and freedom – for his children. Climate change is about to upend it all. “It’s going to be a loss of culture,” says Holwell. “They’ll identify as Inuit and so will their children, but they won’t have the same experiences.” As droughts last longer and heat waves, flooding, and storms intensify in an ever-warmer world, the Inuit are doing what they have always done: adapt. For the past three years, Holwell, 47, has helped run a sea ice monitoring program for the Inuit. Unlike other climate data efforts, this one is completely focused on the needs of the local community. The program is called SmartICE and pairs traditional Inuit knowledge with data collection buoys and electromagnetic sensors to give northern communities real-time measurements of sea ice thickness along their ice “highways” through a website, downloadable phone app, or Facebook. It highlights areas with thicker ice and those with thinner ice. SmartICE is used by more than 30 Inuit communities. The idea is to use the technology to fill in where climate change has made traditional knowledge less reliable or created conditions the Inuit haven’t faced before. Holwell believes tools like SmartICE can extend the time the Inuit have left on the sea ice before it disappears. A new analysis published in Nature Communications Earth and Environment in August showed that the Arctic warmed FOOD AND FREEDOM If the weather is good, a 19-passenger Twin Otter plane flies to Holwell’s hometown of Nain. No carry-ons are allowed. If a bag weighs more than 50 pounds (23 kilograms), it might be left behind for the next flight, or the flight after that if the planes are overweight. There is no de-icer in Nain - or any of the coastal Inuit communities in Labrador - so the planes are often grounded. An elderly couple who was stuck in Goose Bay in mid-April says the longest they’ve waited for a flight was three weeks. The delays are especially bad in the spring when the fog can be thick and unpredictable, they say. In Nain, cars and trucks sit in front yards mounded with snow, while Skidoos zoom along the slushy streets picking children up from school and bringing adults to work. There is only one hotel in town – the Atsanik Hotel – which is also the only restaurant in town. Toilet paper, which comes in bundles of 30 rolls, costs C$40 ($29). More than Nain itself, it’s the landscape around it that is home, says Jim Anderson. “That’s one thing people don’t understand,” says Anderson, 70. “We get culture shock as soon as we go out. We get lost. (We’re) not used to when you can see all the houses – houses end-on-end with no open spaces.” For C$60 in gas, a hunter can kill a seal and feed a family for three or four days, plus make mittens, boots, and other clothing out of the animal’s skin. Shipping in an equivalent amount of store-bought food costs C$300 and clothing isn’t included. The sea ice makes life more affordable. The sea ice also means freedom. Most people can’t afford a boat so in the summer their world literally shrinks and becomes hostile with bugs. But in winter and spring, when the sea ice is frozen, people can fish, hunt, get wood and visit their cabins. Maria Merkuratsuk, who was raised in a cabin north of Nain, says she feels “tingly” when she is out on the ice. “I feel at peace, I can breathe … if I have a lot on my mind, my body can take over … I (can) just drive and drive and drive and think about things,” she says. Isaac Kohlmeister, one of the last two people in Nain to run a dog sled team, says being out on the ice has helped ground him. “When the dogs are running, you can feel everything,” he said. “You can feel the fish under the ice, even.” The Inuit communities Holwell is working with for SmartICE have started compiling their own lists of Inuktitut 6 DENVER VOICE November 2022 INTERNATIONAL FEATURE words for different types of sea ice. In Nain, they’ve come up with 37, which they plan to publish in a booklet next year. BUOYS AND SLEDS There are two parts to the SmartICE program. The first are 9-foot (2.75-metre) tall “SmartBUOYs” deployed in holes drilled through the sea ice at the beginning of the season and removed at the end of the season. The buoys are filled with thermistors, which can be used to measure temperature and record data at specific locations. The sea ice thickness is calculated from the difference in temperature between the atmosphere, snow, ice, and saltwater. The second part of the program is “SmartKAMUTIK” sleds pulled behind Skidoos. The sled carries a plywood box with an electromagnetic sensor. As the skidoo pulls the sled, the sensor sends out electromagnetic pulses to induce a current and measure the thickness of the snow and ice. Holwell typically makes a SmartKAMUTIK run once a week to check the thickness of Nain’s sea ice “highways.” The technology the Inuit are using is the same as what some climate scientists use, but the questions are different. The scientists are mostly asking system-level questions, like what happens next for the planet; the Inuit have more immediate concerns, like whether they will fall through the ice if they go hunting or to visit friends and relatives. The Inuit need more granular data and sampling locations that might be different from where scientists would choose. But increasingly it’s projects that address both scales of concern that are finding support. Katie Winters, 54, who lives in Nain and helped translate the Inuit land claim agreement in Labrador, says even though the sea ice is thicker this year, it has been one of the worst years for people falling through the ice. She immediately names five people and two Skidoos that have fallen through the ice this year but says there are more. Luckily no one died. A community management committee tells Holwell where the SmartBUOYs should go, and as the temperatures warm in the spring, he uses the SmartKAMUTIK to carefully check locations that are known to be dangerous. Holwell trains anyone who is interested in how to make the SmartKAMUTIK runs and teaches teenagers how to build SmartBUOYs during the summer off-season. The team posts every run on the program’s SIKU website and app, and on Facebook. It’s not clear how much people in the community rely on the data but they “like” and comment on the posts. For people without an internet connection, Holwell prints off maps with ice thickness measurements, and, because everyone hunts, he also marks the maps with symbols where animals were spotted or harvested. PEOPLE DRIVE SKIDOOS TOWARDS PIKALUJAK ROCK (INUKTITUT WORD FOR ICEBERG), A FEW KILOMETRES NORTH OF NAIN, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, CANADA, APRIL 14, 2022. AN INUIT LEGEND SAYS PIKALUJAK WAS FORMED WHEN TWO SHAMANS WERE COMPETING AGAINST EACH OTHER TO DETERMINE WHO WAS THE STRONGEST, AND ONE OF THEM REVEALED HIS POWER BY TURNING AN ICEBERG INTO AN ISLAND. REUTERS/MELISSA RENWICK SmartICE got C$400,000 ($293,000) in seed funding from the Arctic Inspiration Prize, the biggest annual prize in Canada. It’s won other prizes too and has slowly been gaining international recognition. Holwell’s pride in the project is obvious. “We’re a production facility in Inuit lands, with Inuit people building the technology for other Inuit,” he says. FLATLINE WARM Ask anyone in Nain about the sea ice and they say they’re seeing the effects of climate change firsthand. The sea ice used to be 5-7 feet (1.5 to 2.1 meters) thick, hard and covered with a thick layer of snow. Now it’s 3-4 feet thick and soft, says Ron Webb, 65. The snow is sugary with a glittery coating - “crappy snow,” Webb calls it. The huge blue chunks of multi-year ice that used to float down from the north are gone and summer tides are stronger, he says. Last year, Webb was driving his Skidoo on 3 feet of sea ice. It felt good but he shoved a stick into it just open water. “Years ago, and the stick went through to you wouldn’t have that. That’s kind of scary because even though the thickness is there, the hardness is not,” he says. REX HOLWELL, 47, POSES FOR A PHOTOGRAPH NEAR A SMARTBUOY, IN TAKTOK, NAIN, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, CANADA, APRIL 13, 2022. THE BUOY IS FILLED WITH THERMISTORS, WHICH CAN BE USED TO MEASURE TEMPERATURE AND CALCULATE SEA ICE THICKNESS AS PART OF THE SMARTICE PROGRAM, WHICH GIVES NORTHERN COMMUNITIES REAL-TIME MEASUREMENTS OF SEA THICKNESS ALONG THEIR ICE “HIGHWAYS” THROUGH A WEBSITE, DOWNLOADABLE PHONE APP OR FACEBOOK. “WE HAVE TO ADAPT TO CLIMATE CHANGE,” HOLWELL SAYS. “WE’RE GOING TO NEED MORE TOOLS LIKE SMARTICE.” REUTERS/MELISSA RENWICK November 2022 DENVER VOICE 7 to check Webb laughs. The Inuit in Nain call themselves “Sikumiut” or “people of the sea ice” but he has started joking that they should make another adaptation – switch to using hovercraft – to navigate sea ice too dangerous for a Skidoo. Spring is the best time to be out on the sea ice. The days are longer but nights are still cold enough to freeze. In April, for example, temperatures usually drop to minus 10 and minus 15 Celsius (5 to 14 Fahrenheit) overnight – but this year temperatures hovered around zero. “Usually, it’s like a heart monitoring machine – up and down – but it’s been flatline warm the whole month of April,” says Joey Angnatok, a former program coordinator for SmartICE. TEAM CANADA Communities living on freshwater lakes and rivers in northern Canada have begun asking about SmartICE. Holwell says Sami caribou herders and others in Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and England have also asked about the technology. “We’re needed, Team Canada, we’re needed,” says Holwell. Then, like a small-town auctioneer or a politician on a stump speech, he delivers his pitch: “We want Joe in Tuktoyaktuk to be a SmartICE champion.” A little later he heads out on his Skidoo, flying across the sea ice like a giant tundra bumblebee in the brief sub-Arctic spring – joyful, free, with no question of his place in the world. Opening the throttle, he speeds toward the horizon where the geese and seals are, deeply certain that his tiny Inuit town on the edge of the sea ice matters, and that now the rest of the world knows it too. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / International Network of Street Papers

INTERNATIONAL STORY PHOTO BY BILL WEGENER ON UNSPLASH PHOTO BY SIGMUND ON UNSPLASH WHAT POVERTY DOES TO CHILDREN INTERVIEW BY BENJAMIN BUCHHOLZ A childhood of poverty can shape people throughout their lives, says sociologist Aladin El-Mafaalani. Good schools could help, he says, in a conversation with street paper Hinz&Kunzt. HINZ&KUNZT: Professor El-Mafaalani, how important is it to you to be addressed by your title? ALADIN EL-MAFAALANI: Not important at all. Might that also have something to do with your childhood home - with your social background? My father also has a doctorate, and it’s more important to him than it is to me. He himself comes from a non-academic household, perhaps that is why he insists on having his title everywhere. To what extent does the milieu we grow up in shape our view of the world as adults? It shapes it a lot. People are interested in different things, depending on whether they grow up poor or wealthy. To put it bluntly, those who grow up poor want exactly what they lack: wealth and fame. That’s why any form of recognition and wealth is enormously important to them. For those who grow up with them, they aren’t that important, because they’re taken as given. In your book, Myth of Education, you write that children who grow up in poverty become “insolvency administrators of everyday life”. What do you mean by that? Their daily lives are characterized by a general state of shortage: they have too little money, too little recognition and too few opportunities for recreational activities. In fact, they have too little of everything. Children then develop a shortage management mentality. An insolvency manager must act for the PHOTO BY YARENCI ON UNSPLASH short term, cannot experiment, and must avoid any risk. These patterns of activity are developed by poor children, as well. Can you give a concrete example? If there’s no money, then children have few options for recreational activities. Once they’ve developed a routine that they can to some extent manage, they stick to it almost exclusively. That’s why, in such milieus, there’s sometimes a lot of media consumption or other activities that the children engage in every day. This always becomes clear when you compare them with children who grow up wealthy in the same city: they are often members of two sports clubs and pursue all kinds of activities. Sounds like children are very good at adapting to their circumstances. Why is that still a problem? It’s a super sensible and highly rational form of adaptation to those circumstances. It becomes problematic, for example, because these people tend not to get involved. If I only see meaning in something that’s of immediate and short-term use to me, then I won’t get involved when a citizens’ dialogue takes place in a neighborhood, asking how “we” want to live in 20 years’ time. An abstract “we” and a long time horizon of 20 years require room for manoeuvre—and poor people are usually other-directed by their precarious surrounding 8 DENVER VOICE November 2022 INTERNATIONAL STORY conditions. And then the district gets planned by others. But it is precisely such long-term plans that are decisive. So, poverty as a problem of democracy. Another example: those who grow up poor do not want to change society, but only their place in society. Those who grow up wealthy want to change or at least shape society. That’s why social movements like “Fridays for Future” will always have problems encouraging disadvantaged people to join in. In your book, you anaFFlyze how children from poor families cope at school. The experiences you mention play a role there, too. If you’re always asking yourself what the point of something is and how it can help you, you’ll hardly have any motivation for half of the subjects at school. Traditionally, education in Germany is not supposed to be functional, but an end in itself. It’s a nice ideal, but it shouldn’t be taken for granted. Instead, children should first be taught to learn something for the sake of learning. To stay with your model: how would that help the children? We see from long-term studies that those investments that are of no immediate benefit are extremely useful to children in the long run. You could say, for example, that learning a musical instrument only makes sense if you want to become a musician. But indirectly, you learn a huge amount that you need for your future life and for success at school. For example? You learn to make an effort, even if only sounds right at the end of a lengthy process. And you learn that you have to practise alone, to be able to make music with others as a team, later on. The learning of a musical instrument is currently distributed extremely unequally in society, depending on how wealthy the parents are. That’s why it would make a great deal of sense for all children at all-day schools in Germany to learn a musical instrument. In Hamburg, depending on the social composition of the parent community, schools receive different amounts of money, for example, for smaller classes or for education specialists. Is that enough to make up for the disadvantages? It definitely makes sense. You have to compensate because, for a variety of reasons, parents aren’t able to support their children in the same way that parents at other schools can. It would also be exceptionally bad if children were experiencing shortages at school, too, and the teachers themselves were behaving like insolvency administrators. Children must be given the opportunity to spend a long time, voluntarily, in a very well-equipped school. In this way, the routine of shortage management can be broken, and that pattern of thinking can be prevented from becoming part of your personality as an adult. Otherwise, you’ll likely be stuck with it for the rest of your life. So the effects of poverty can be mitigated at school. But wouldn’t it make much more sense to remedy shortages among the families and use the money to ease their poverty, instead of investing it in schools? Our society systematically allows child poverty. It doesn’t provoke it, but it does very little to prevent children from growing up in circumstances in which they barely get adequate support. It only steps in if children are already poor and then tries to alleviate the situation somewhat. Of course, it would be best if children didn’t grow up in conditions of structural privation. But that wouldn’t exempt schools from offering something on an all-day basis, because many parents still wouldn’t be able to support their children in the same way. PHOTO BY RENE BERNAL ON UNSPLASH During the pandemic, children from poor families were hit particularly hard by school closures. In compensation, students in Hamburg have had to sit fewer exams for their first and intermediate school-leaving exams in the past two years, to give them more time to catch up. Schools have also been offering voluntary “learning holidays” and other remedial courses. Is that sufficient? There’s no harm in any of that. Whether it’ll have a positive effect remains to be seen, but it certainly isn’t sufficient. All the studies show that not all of the children and young people suffered from the pandemic conditions in the same way. The younger and the more disadvantaged the pupils are, the greater their learning arrears. So they’re the greatest for poor children in primary schools. The pandemic has also resulted in the migration background of children becoming much more important, because they often only learn to speak German outside the home. What happens to these children now? You can’t have all children repeating their classes, as we have neither the teachers nor the rooms for that. Almost all of them will be transferred. The learning arrears are a big problem for them, because in maths lessons, for example, everything is interlinked, and knowledge of past content is assumed. So we will see more and more young people in the 9th and 10th grades who no longer understand anything in maths. This needs to be countered, but it’s far from having happened to any satisfactory degree. If you could choose one measure to combat injustice at school, what would it be? From 2026, the right to an all-day place at primary school will be put into practice. If I could choose just one thing, I would provide primary schools with the means to create extremely good frameworks for all-day teaching—and then successively extend that comprehensive all-day teaching to the higher grades. To iron out disadvantages, treat unequal things unequally, because if you treat everyone equally, you perpetuate the existing inequality. Those who come from unfavourable conditions must, therefore, be given special and targeted support. This can be achieved with wellequipped all-day schools that are able to respond to the children individually. ■ Aladin El-Mafaalani is a sociologist and chair of Pedagogy and Education in Migration Society at the University of Osnabrück. He has published several books on education and migration. In “Myth of Education”, he deals with the problems of the German education system. Further info: www.mafaalani.de Translated from German via Translators without Borders Courtesy of Hinz&Kunzt / International Network of Street Papers DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org November 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY THE RICH ASKING TO BE TAXED INTERVIEW BY CARLOTTA BÖTTCHER Millionaire heiress Marlene Engelhorn loudly demands being taxed fairly. Having just published her first book, entitled Money, the super-rich activist lays out her views and encourages people to rethink the role of capital. 20ER: It is often said that “you don’t talk about money; you just have it”. As a millionaire heiress, you surely have plenty of money, and yet, you still choose to talk about it. In fact, you’ve written an entire book on the topic of money. What is your objective? MARLENE ENGELHORN: As a super-rich person, I approach the subject of money from the perspective of a “super-amateur”. People always assume that the richest members of society are savvy when it comes to money. But I’ve never had to worry about money since I’ve always had plenty of it. My question is, what is money when you have so much of it that you no longer need it? And what does it do to me as a person? I would like to ask this question in systemic terms and to uncover the intertwining of the super-rich with society. What does this inter-twining look like? Money often isn’t about coins and notes, but about power relations within relationships. What, after all, is the reason that I want power within a relationship? Obviously, I do not wish to go through the relationship process – in order to do so, I would have to be on equal footing. Power is alluring because it offers shortcuts to results, and money, in societal terms, works the same way: As a relationship-making instrument, designed to yield results without having to go through the process. However, the results I can achieve in this way are not sustainable, because not everybody will be on board with them. In the worst case, such results are like the results of blackmail. What kind of understanding would you like to see instead? Super-rich people need to acknowledge that their money does not justify dominance. And that, without society and its governmental structures, super-rich individuals wouldn’t exist. Because their existence necessitates an entire infrastructure, including traffic networks, the education system, hospitals, the rule of law, and so on and so forth. Without laws, there can be no property, either. It’s a statutory commodity rather than a natural one. It is easy to forget that this kind of infrastructure isn’t to be taken for granted and that receiving it goes hand in hand with social responsibility. How so? Those who have rights also have obligations. If I live within this framework, I need to see eye to eye with others. I cannot claim things for myself that I have no right to. Super-rich people think that they are entitled to special rules, but this has no basis in democratic legitimization. Privileges are prerogatives, and those are unjust. That is why we need rules, in order to ensure that individuals do not abuse their power without the MARLENE ENGELHORN WILL INHERIT AN AMOUNT IN THE DOUBLE-DIGIT MILLIONS. SHE IS PLANNING TO GIVE UP MORE THAN 90% OF IT. CREDIT: ULRICH PALZER. mandate to do so. In terms of money, this is about taxes; we act like taxes on assets are a new invention, but they have existed for millennia. What is new is personal income tax. That hasn’t even been around for 200 years. But in this case, you don’t hear anyone asking, “Is it okay for you if we take this amount of money from you?” It is absurd to apply double standards to wealth and income. In addition to fairer tax policies, there is also talk of a cap on individual wealth. Bertolt Brecht once said: “Were I not poor, you wouldn’t be rich.” It is important to make this connection. We need a counterpart to the poverty line in order to have some kind of spectrum between those two. Otherwise, there is no upwards limit – it’s blurry. We have to draw the line and say beyond this point, wealth is no longer affluence, but a political problem; beyond this point, there is too much power concentrated in the hands of individuals. Wealth ought to be something that arises between those two lines. We aiming not to have identical circumstances, but to establish equal rights and consistent equality in political and legal terms. We tend to understand money as a neutral means of barter, but there is a lot of money that is simply being hoarded and which does not circulate at all. Is our perception of money flawed? Money is not just a means of barter, but also of debt. For instance, I need outside capital in order to be able to expand my business. Then, I work with the money I have borrowed, which I promise to pay back. I don’t exchange any concrete goods in this case, but rather, I place myself in a framework of relationships. That is why we have contracts in such cases; we want something in writing which proves and certifies this relationship. It is important to understand that first, I need the relationship and the framework, within which I then make those exchanges. And what about the money that is being hoarded? Private money is something that occurs when super-rich people funnel money from the financial stream, thereby destroying the whole ‘instrument’ conception of money. Money is then only understood as a means to an end, and thus, the vicious circle of “needing money in order to have money” begins. This kind of egoistical dynamics, when money is being stored somewhere, gives rise to individual superiority. Should we question the whole concept of money as such? I would not wish to see money as an instrument disappear; it is neither good nor bad. It could be a useful tool since it gives expression to how we treat each other within our societies. Also, it is the ultimate means: the only one all of us, worldwide, have been able to agree upon. However, on top of an economic one, we also need a social and political conception of money. If we talk openly about money and recognize the underlying relational dynamics, we will also start handling it differently. Is this possible within our capitalist system? In principle, I am willing to ask questions about our current system, but I do not want to just knock it on the head, either. The legal scholar and author Katharina Pistor calls this “institutional autopsy”. We should always ask ourselves, “What works well and generates wealth, and where are there exploitative structures and unhealthy dependencies?” We ought to view the system as something permanently undergoing change, since that is what people and societies do, too. This is extremely complex, but it is the only way for us to stop thinking in “-isms”. I don’t think it is helpful to debate 10 DENVER VOICE November 2022 INTERNATIONAL STORY whether capitalism is better than socialism. That would give the impression that I have the answer, when, in actual fact, it isn’t really possible to find one definite answer. All we have is the answering process. Recognizing this is very unsatisfactory, but incredibly important. How can we undergo this process as a whole society? We ought to ask who it is that ultimately shapes society. Who has the means to speak? Who is allowed to have discussions? If we keep boiling the same kind of stew, we will always be left with the same results. We need a notion of public life that is not just based on the perspective of the privileged. Ideally, at some point, there will be no need for me to have to say this anymore, either – because my arguments, just like my class, are already well-represented. It is just the fact that I can see through their seeming contradictions that surprises many people. Are you also looking to discuss this issue with other super-rich people? Yes, and they very often react positively. I should not make myself an exception here, as, for a long time, I went about my life wearing the blinkers of privilege. And also, I could have the strongest sense of justice in the world, but it would be no use if I just kept it to myself. Super-rich people have reading groups on Karl Marx, and they know his writings very well. But what exactly does this bring about? I cannot claim to have understood the political fabric of society if I am not prepared to deduce from it a consistent course of action. Only a few super-rich people are as open about their privilege as you are. Why is that? Many of the super-rich people I know fear that going public means giving up all of their privacy. But they underestimate just how visible their privilege is even before they do go public. People will know that I am rich even if I don’t say so myself. The moment I fear being reduced to one of the super-rich, I begin to define myself by my wealth. I have seen super-rich people burst into tears when they thought deeply about the question: “Who really am I without my money?” Let’s suppose that wealth is fairly taxed in the future, and you lose your money. What kind of work could you see yourself doing in ten years’ time? I grew up with a lot of class privilege and I will have it for the rest of my life. But I do not consider myself above work – on the contrary: I think it would be both important and nice for us to eventually develop a notion of work as a means of participating in a society that does not promote power imbalances or systemize exploitation. No wealth could replace that. ■ Translated from German via Translators without Borders Courtesy of 20er / International Network of Street Papers BACK ON THE STREETS BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE Recently, the rent for Denver VOICE Vendor Brian Augustine went up significantly. No longer able to afford it, Augustine has returned to living on the streets. We asked Augustine to write about his experience and share the experiences of others in similar situations. This is the second in a new column he is writing for the VOICE called “Back on the Streets.” GOD CALLS I’m not crazy or a religious nut. I’ve seen so many different reactions when I’ve told people that God was having me go homeless, or that He did this because He needed me to do something for Him. God doesn’t talk to me. Life would be so much easier if He did. But He does push me with situations. I’ve learned to go with Him. Just keep the faith. I’m not crazy. I know if God started telling me to kill someone, that it wouldn’t be God talking. God doesn’t ask us to break his commandments. But, He will ask us to go into situations that we are not comfortable doing. Homelessness is not a choice we would make as a child. MEETING ANGEL The first night I was homeless and back on the streets ended up with me in the hospital visit. (I will write about this later.) I was nervous. I’m sleeping out in the open with drug addicts, alcoholics, and mentally unstable people. A lot of those folks can be a combination of these at the same time. I’m now in a wheelchair, which is hard to keep pushing with my arms. (I now have different ideas of handicapaccessible. Even a one-fourth inch lip on a sidewalk can stop you like you’ve run into a wall.) Anyway, I was sleeping in a doorway, when a schizophrenic woman came up. She asked if she could sit next to me. I had seen her around, and I knew the she needed any sleep she could get. I said yes, even though it could cost me my life if she had an episode. She said her name was Angel. I’m pretty sure that it is. She laid out her blankets. As she covered up. I said, “You can sleep. I’ll guard our things.” I don’t sleep,” she sold me. “I’ll keep watch.” Then, she began arguing with what I gathered were voices inside her head. I listened for a minute before inserting my own voice into the conversation. I explained that I was safe and trustworthy, and that l would respect our friendship. Twenty minutes later, she was snoring heavily. I kept watch all night, and in the morning I repeated her name until she woke up. I told her I was heading out. As I pulled away in my wheelchair, I’m sure I heard her whisper, “Thank you.” Angel found me for four nights in a row after that. Each night, I listened to her argue with herself, as I tried to piece together some of her story. I figured the more I understood about her, the better I would be able to empathize with her. What I learned about her life was heartbreaking. FIRE ON THE 16TH STREET MALL On the fifth night with Angel, we were sleeping under an awning because it was raining. Suddenly, someone broke into one of the kiosks on the 16th Street Mall. The burglar started a fire. Some homeless folks went to see what they could get, while others just ran. Angel made sure I was awake before running away herself. I haven’t seen her since, but I’m sure I will at some point. I called the police. The woman who broke in was arrested. The reason that all of the homeless people in the vicinity ran away is because they knew if they had stayed, they would have been treated badly the officers. And some probably had misdemeanor warrants. ESCAPING THE PAIN: There are three schizophrenic woman I’ve gotten to know. All of them were sexually abused to the point of breaking them. Those voices they hear are their protection against more abuse by a society that doesn’t take the time or the effort to build trust with them. The ones that do drugs do them to escape their pain; not to dull it. That pain is so sharp that just to think about their experiences, makes their wounds open up. Only time and trust can help them back. ■ REMAYR & SCHERIAU: GELD MARLENE ENGELHORN, KREMAYR & SCHERIAU 2022 BRIAN AUGUSTINE. CREDIT: ELISABETH MONAGHAN November 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA GUESS WHAT, SELF? Life is good because we got it together. Life, for many years, was hard because Self couldn’t love Self. Don’t worry about it, Self Don’t worry about what he or she just said to you to try to hurt you. Just let it go. Do not worry about what people think of you, especially when you know they are not saying anything good about you. Let it go. Don’t worry about who likes you or who doesn’t like you. Live your life for yourself, not for others’ approval. Self, you need to love Self, so you will know what to let go of. Do not take on anyone else’s problems. When you know you can’t handle their problems, speak up and say, “I’m sorry. I can’t help you with your problem.” Don’t worry about what others think about you. You have your own life to live. Other people’s opinions of you shouldn’t matter at all. You can’t make everyone happy, so don’t try. Only care, Self, about people you know are truly there for you. Let everyone else go. Self, stop worrying about everything because worrying won’t change anything. Deal with it, or let it go. Don’t worry every day about things that really don’t matter. Your life, Self, will be a lot better for you. Worrying will kill your health and age you faster Try every day to worry less and to not hold onto things you can’t change. So, Self, Let go and free yourself from worrying. ■ ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN ANNUAL WRAPPING PAPER ISSUE VOICE vendors have been busy coming up with wrapping paper designs for our December issue. Keep your eye out next month for the 2022 creations, and use them to wrap your holiday gifts! . 12 DENVER VOICE November 2022 G 2019 ART BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON T BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNS NE JOHNSON N 2021 ART BY VOICE VENDOR PATRICK BALERIO T B TRICK BALERIO CK BALE BALE 2020 ART BY VOICE VENDOR JERRY ROSEN 20 AR EVENTS WHEN: Nov 2 – Nov 13 COST: Ticket prices vary. WHERE: Multiple venues INFO: denverfilm.org LAUGH LAB Local comedians test out new material and tweak existing crushers at Rise Comedy’s weekly Laugh Lab! Some comics will concoct the perfect formula while other jokes will implode on sight but regardless, the results will be entertaining! WHEN: Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. INFO: risecomedy.com ACROSS EXQUISITE CORPSE For one night only, enjoy this hilarious comedy showcase with an artistic twist! WHEN: Nov 6, 7:30 p.m. COST: $15 WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: bugtheatre.org OPENING DAY OF THE DENVER CHRISTKINDL MARKET Civic Center Park will once again be transformed into a traditional German Christmas Market, complete with festive music, big beers, a heated tent, soft pretzels, Gluhwein, holiday knickknacks, and twinkling lights. Market runs through December 23; check the website for daily hours and entertainment. WHEN: Nov 18, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Civic Center Park, Colfax & Broadway INFO: christkindlmarketdenver.com 60 MINUTES IN SPACE Hear about the latest in space news, including rocket launches, mission updates, cutting-edge astronomy, and more. WHEN: Nov 30, 7 p.m. COST: This event is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please use the West Evening Entrance of the Museum. WHERE: Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Ricketson Auditorium, 2001 Colorado Blvd. INFO: dmns.org 1. Opening 6. Have a bawl 9. They’re entered in court 14. Cat’s cry (Var.) 15. Afghani coin, once 16. Calculus calculation 17. Horse breed with a spotted coat 19. Old Spanish card game 20. Polite palindromic title 21. Common sense 22. Skin layer 23. Coves 25. Talk, talk, talk 26. Post-Civil War period 32. Stage pieces 33. Butcher’s cut 34. Taqueria La ___, restaurant in Northeast Portland 37. Desert of Chile 41. News bit 42. Indian melodies 43. Hoovers 48. Hair raiser? 49. Some billiard balls 50. Lexicographer’s concern 53. ___ of the above 54. Pass over 58. Flummoxed 59. Fish gelatin 61. Gathers leaves 62. Half a score 63. “Be-Bop-___” (Gene Vincent hit) 64. Quench 65. Part of a joule 66. Less ruddy DOWN 1. Muslim holy man 2. Asian palm 3. Spanish appetizer 4. Wander 5. Wise one 6. Gone bad, in Britain 7. Removal from power 8. Early stage of an animal 11-Down 9. Trudge 10. Citrus fruit 11. Fertilized egg 12. Flyboy 13. Porterhouse, e.g. 18. Keeps 23. As originally found 24. Sean Connery, for one 26. Dashboard abbr. 27. Bard’s “before” 28. Trigonometry abbr. 29. Kind of nerve 30. Pageant wear 31. Machu Picchu native 35. Greek god of thunder 36. Coiled fossil shell 38. “Act your ___!” 39. Blemish 40. Biblical beast 43. Ancient Rome’s ___ Virgins 44. Baked ___ 45. Less distant 46. Silver ___ 47. Garden with a snake 48. Food thickeners 51. Avid fan 52. “___ on Down the Road” (“The Wiz” song) 54. Stewpot 55. Injure severely 56. ___ of Man 57. Abdicator of 1917 60. Mind the ___ COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES DENVER FILM FESTIVAL Currently in its 45th year, the Denver Film Festival provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in world-class cinema for 12 straight days. This year’s fest will feature national and international independent films, creative conversations, post-screening Q+As, VR experiences, and additional special events. Choose from fancy-pants red carpet screenings or low-budget indie gems, while you hang with other film lovers and makers. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 November 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Walker Family Foundation Whole Foods Foundation Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Russell Peterson Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Jerry Conover Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Keyrenter Property Management Denver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Kroger Jana and Jim Cuneo Creating Healthier Communities Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren & Betty Kuehner Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 John Gibson Michael Dino Fire on the Mountain Blackbaud Giving Fund Christopher Boulanger Robert E & Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Sheryl Parker Maggie Holben Alistair Davidson Laura Saunders Costco Barbara & Robert Ells Carol & Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremey Anderson Ridley, McGreevy & Winocur Stephen Saul WalMart 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 14 DENVER VOICE November 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org November 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Vendor Profi le: RV LIVING ON THE ROAD TO HOUSING FOR SOME, AN RV IS THE ONLY OPTION. PAGE 5 USING THOUGHTFUL DESIGN FOR NEW HOUSING MODEL SEATTLE DESIGN FESTIVAL SHOWCASES WHAT SUSTAINABLE HOUSING COULD LOOK LIKE. PAGE 8 BACK ON THE STREETS NO LONGER ABLE TO AFFORD HIS RENT, VOICE VENDOR BRIAN AUGUSTINE HAS RETURNED TO LIVING ON THE STREETS. PAGE 11 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 OCTOBER 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 10 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) ALBERT BLAND FROM YOUR VENDOR: “THIS RV SAVED US. IT WAS THE LUCKIEST THING FOR US, OR MAYBE THE BEST BLESSING. I DON’T KNOW WHERE WE WOULD BE WITHOUT IT,” CORNELIUS JENKINS SAID. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR IN SEPTEMBER, I attended the INSP Global Street Paper Summit in Milan, Italy. For nearly 30 years, INSP, which is short for International Network of Street Papers, has provided support for street papers, the vendors that distribute them, and the people who manage the vendor programs and editorial content. In addition to organizing a biennial summit, INSP also has a comprehensive website for its members, with a variety of tools for anyone working with the papers. For example, those involved with vendor relationships, fundraising, or administration, can find documented processes, and resources that other street papers have either helped create or successfully implemented. For the editorial side, INSP has a news service, where street papers share articles about their vendors or updates on important THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. BRIAN AUGUSTINE has been a Denver VOICE vendor for12 years and is happy to have an opportunity to share his experiences in his “Back to the Streets” column for the VOICE. SEPTEMBER 2022: GROUP SHOT OF STREET PAPERS FROM AROUND AT INSP GLOBAL SUMMIT IN MILAN, ITALY. CREDIT: ANDREA CHERCHI, INSP stories affecting them. This helps papers like the VOICE stay current on what is happening within the INSP community. It also allows us to download content from our fellow papers, or upload articles that we previously published in ours. Connecting with our peers in real life, after more than two years of meeting via Zoom, was the elixir so many of us needed. It was inspiring to hear what other street papers and their vendors are doing to address the issue of homelessness. It was also a great reminder that none of us in the street paper movement is alone in our work, and the only way we’re going to find a solution is to continue to work together. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR John Golden MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lara Keith GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen 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 Lando Allen Brian Augustine Albert Bland Giles Clasen Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 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 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. 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. 2 DENVER VOICE October 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US FEATURED VENDOR DON’T LET THE LOOKS FOOL YOU BY ALBERT BLAND People have this misperception that if a person looks clean, wears clean clothes, and gives off an air of confidence, the person could not possibly be homeless. This is something Denver VOICE Vendor Albert Bland has discovered since he first became a vendor 20+ years ago. Consistently among the top VOICE vendors every month, Bland recently shared his thoughts about how people react to him when they see him vending because he takes pride in looking sharp, clean, and put together. For this vendor profile, Bland explains why people should not be fooled into thinking that just because someone looks good they aren’t in need. “PEOPLE THINK IF YOU LOOK CLEAN, you don’t probably don’t need any help. The thing is, just because you are low-income or may be homeless, it doesn’t mean you have to look, act, or smell like you’re homeless. Any person that has a dignity about themselves likes to keep themselves up and be presentable. That’s not to say that I don’t have sympathy for those who can’t maintain [themselves] It’s just that for those who are CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL aware of themselves, had a good upbringing, and know right from wrong, they shouldn’t have to feel like they have to belittle themselves to look the part or be able to ask for help. I try not to be so judgmental. Things happen, so when you look at a person and see something like a hole in their clothes or stain on their shirt, or even if they’re dressed ‘too clean,’ they shouldn’t have to be uncomfortable. I used to worry about what people thought of me when I first started vending, wondering if I was dressed too nice. But it’s not even about that. It’s about being who you are and being sincere. People want to donate regardless of how you look. It’s all in how you present yourself. The other day, I saw a guy in my neighborhood. I’ve seen him around, but when I ran into him at the gas station, he asked me for money. I gave him a few bucks because he happened to catch me at the right time. If I have the money and can afford to give it to someone, I’ll help out regardless of what the person looks like. It’s about being a humanitarian. It makes a difference that he had the decency to ask me for money, was sincere, and got right to the point without wasting my time. I don’t need a sob story or to hear someone play the blame game. It’s to a point now where I don’t care what people think. I’m very aware of myself and my capabilities. People compliment me regularly on how I’m dressed and present myself. Some have asked what I’m doing vending the VOICE and tell me I should be selling cars, but that’s not what I want to do. Not only that, I’m just very comfortable vending the VOICE. I’ve been doing the VOICE for years now, and I know what people like to hear and are interested in what I have to say. I’m not just out there vending the VOICE, I’m promoting myself. You just never know. You may come across that one person who may ask, ‘How would you feel about doing this job for me...?’ If someone is not familiar with the VOICE or our vendors and happens to walk past me, I know I have only a few seconds to grab their attention and get my point across quickly. I tell them why I’m here, and what the paper is about. I explain that the paper provides a service to the public. It creates lots of jobs, and the content is written by actual reporters. Vendors also contribute and get paid for their work. The vendor program accepts anyone. There is meaningful work for volunteers, and paid work for the journalists and photographers. Also, the program gives people an opportunity without discriminating against anyone.” ■ HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. October 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

AUTUMN WISH LIST With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water Paper products for the office GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks Carrier bags USB-C charging cables LANDO ALLEN Most people don’t carry cash anymore, so if someone wants a paper but says they don’t have cash, make sure you tell people that you take Venmo. (It will probably help your income increase, too.) ALBERT BLAND Just because a customer doesn’t have cash doesn’t mean they can’t get a paper. Inform them that you don’t need cash to get a paper and that the Denver VOICE has an option to donate via Venmo or Square. In most cases, by letting them know, you’ll see your sales numbers go up! JERRY ROSEN Most people pay in cash, but some pay in Venmo. I would tell vendors to make sure they write their name and badge number on the front cover of the paper [in the upper-lefthand section, where the Venmo QR code is]. Also, make sure sure anyone paying through Venmo adds the vendor’s name in the comments section when they submit the payment via Venmo. BRIAN AUGUSTINE If the person is making the payment via Venmo right there, I tell them to put my first name and last initial in the comments section of the Venmo form. 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. 4 DENVER VOICE October 2022 What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q What is your suggestion to make sure Denver VOICE vendors receive the donations/payments made to them through Venmo? A LOCAL FEATURE LANDIS HAS ACCUMULATED SEVERAL PARKING TICKETS, DUE TO A LAW REQUIRING HIM TO MOVE HIS CAMPER EVERY 72 HOURS. “WHEN I CAN’T PAY THE TICKET EVERYTHING GETS MESSIER AND HARDER FOR ME,” LANDIS SAID. LANDIS LOOKS FOR A TICKET FROM A CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER WHO HAS HARASSED HIM REGULARLY. THE ROAD TO HOUSING MAY BE PAVED WITH RVS For some, an RV offers more security, more costs, and is the only option. PHOTOS AND STORY BY GILES CLASEN THE FIRST NIGHT, homeless in a camper, was not easy for Devine Carter. “It was scary,” Carter said. “It doesn’t sound too bad until you stay outside and you hear the noise of people walking past, talking, and chattering. It was a little unnerving.” There has been a rise in the use of RVs by those experiencing homelessness in Denver. Cars and other vehicles are often the last resort for individuals who become homeless, but RVs are unique because they stand out when parked in Denver neighborhoods. Denver does not have an accurate count of how many individuals are living in vehicles. Carter and her partner Cornelius Jenkins have been living CARTER AND JENKINS RECEIVED PARKING TICKETS BEFORE A FRIEND OFFERED TO LET THEM PARK THEIR RV ON PRIVATE PROPERTY. in their 22-foot trailer for over 18 months. They have had to navigate Denver’s parking laws, deal with a hit-and-run, and respond to Denver’s weather extremes. Still, their trailer has become a home they worked hard to build. Continued on page 6 October 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE DEVINE CARTER AND CORNELIUS JENKINS BECAME HOMELESS WHEN THEIR SON LOST HIS HOUSING DUE TO A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS. THEY HAD MOVED IN WITH THEIR SON, WHO WAS DIAGNOSED WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA, TO HELP HIM. Carter and Jenkins lost their housing when their son was arrested. Carter and Jenkins moved in with their son in 2020 to provide support when their son began exhibiting chaotic behavior, trespassing at businesses, and eventually, was arrested. Their son lost his publicly supported housing in the process leaving Carter and Jenkins homeless. “We moved in with our son to help him,” Jenkins said. “When he lost his housing, we lost ours. We sacrificed for him but lost everything ourselves.” When her son was arrested, Carter lost her job, as well. Before then, she had been working to care for her son under Colorado’s Family Caregiver Act and was employed through the Mental Health Center of Denver, now Wellpower. Jenkins had his own handyman and construction company but struggled to find work in the early days of the pandemic. “It happened so fast we couldn’t react,” Jenkins said. “We did the best we could, and it led us here.” After their eviction, Jenkins and Carter lived in hotels trying desperately to find a foothold and get another apartment. Instead, the cost of hotels depleted their savings. The saving grace was that Jenkins did some construction work for a woman who had an old RV in her yard. The RV needed new tires but was mechanically sound. “This RV saved us. It was the luckiest thing for us, or maybe, the best blessing. I don’t know where we would be without it,” Jenkins said. OFFERING SECURITY Lisa Barczak, a peer support specialist with Stout Street Health Center, understands why individuals would try to live in a camper when homeless. Stout Street Health Center is a program of the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless that provides medical, dental, and vision services. As Barczak pointed out, RVs are safer than sleeping on the sidewalk and have extra storage space, which is a precious commodity when most shelters don’t have storage. Barczak, who does outreach to unhoused individuals throughout the Metro area, was homeless herself. She often slept on sidewalks without any shelter and had people pee and pour beer on her while sleeping. She even woke to men masturbating, she said. “I do feel like having an RV would be worth it for having that peace of mind and having that safe place to sleep,” Barczak said. “[An RV] would be valuable to be able to actually sleep when you want to go to sleep, to lock the door and feel safe. When you’re sleeping outside on the street you really couldn’t be more vulnerable.” RUNNING AFOUL OF THE LAW The added security of an RV comes with a unique cost. According to an email sent to Denver VOICE from the Denver Police Department’s Media Relations Unit, RVs longer than 22 feet that are parked on Denver’s streets must be moved 100 ft every 72 hours. For the first few months in their camper, Carter and Jenkins spent their time trying to avoid the police. They moved their RV every few days and tried to stay under the radar. It didn’t matter. The two still accumulated their share of tickets. Jeff Landis, another individual living in an RV, has also lived with this threat. He said the biggest hassle he faces is police and code enforcement. “The cops want to run us off and call that the solution,” Landis said. “It is obvious the powers that be don’t want to help us. They want to run us off and move us one block away. But the problem isn’t solved, we don’t get help. It is just one big shell game.” Landis would like to find stable housing. As he explained in an interview with Denver VOICE, he is tired of living in an RV. He is connected with services through the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless and works with a case manager who helps him apply for housing. But the wait for housing is long. Landis has tried to find work but has not been successful. “I can’t find a job in the best job market of my life,” he said. “And it isn’t because I’m not trying. It isn’t because I don’t want a job. When you’re homeless, you can’t find a job. It is discrimination because you don’t have clean clothes and you don’t have a shower. Who is going to hire you?” Additionally, Landis has an injury he sustained after working in construction for 30 years, and that limits his options. He recently applied for SSDI. Landis said he will continue to try and hide from police or parking enforcement until he can get an apartment or other housing. “Sometimes. they find me and give me a ticket,” Landis said. “When I can’t pay the ticket, everything gets messier and harder for me. The next ticket or the ticket after that may mean I get booted or towed. and then, I’ve lost my last bit of shelter. That added cost [of moving the camper every day] means it is even harder for me to get out of this mess.” According to Landis, the higher gas prices have hurt him, making the possibility of getting housing even less likely. “With inflation, I’ve got nothing,” Landis said. “I need to panhandle $50 a day to get 10 or so gallons of gas. And 10 gallons don’t move a camper far.” 6 DENVER VOICE October 2022 LOCAL FEATURE FINDING OFF-STREET PARKING To avoid parking tickets, Jenkins and Carter explored renting space at an RV park. The cheapest they could find was $900 a month, but Jenkins felt it was a “shady” deal. He said a decent one costs $1,400 a month, which was outside of their budget. Eventually, they were lucky to receive an invitation from a friend to park on private property in Northeast Denver. This has ended their run-ins with law enforcement, and now, the two consider the RV their tiny home. “I love living in our RV,” Carter said. “We had to simplify our lives to make it work. We had to get rid of almost everything because there is [little] storage, but it works for us.” ALWAYS A RISK OF LOSING A HOME In addition to the stress and ticket fees, RV owners experiencing homelessness face other costs like licensing and insurance, which can put housing even further out of reach. “A lot of these vehicles don’t run, and the ones that do are in constant need of repairs and money to fix them.” Barczak said. And leaving a vehicle, even if it’s to get services or health care, can result in a vehicle being towed. When an RV is unattended, it could be considered an abandoned vehicle. As the Denver Police Department media relations unit explained, if a vehicle has been determined to be abandoned, they issue a Notice of Abandoned Vehicle and route the information to the Denver Sheriff’s Department Impound, Abandoned Vehicle Unit. The department does not track how many complaints come in about RVs on Denver streets because there is not a specific nature code in the dispatch system, they added. According to Barczak, the threat of being towed prevents some individuals from coming to Stout Street Health Clinic for medical care or other services. “I’ve had clients whose vehicles were towed while they were meeting with me for two hours at the clinic,” Barczak said. “They come back, and their vehicle is gone. [They lose] that last little bit of safety and privacy.” RV LIVING AND LOST OPPORTUNITIES The requirement to move a vehicle every 72 hours can cause Barczak and the Coalition to lose track of individuals. “[When individuals move their campers] it makes it very difficult for people to access services. By being forced to move every couple of days, they have to keep starting over, and starting over, and starting over,” Barczak said. “We have people every day that qualify for housing vouchers. We have maybe two weeks to find them, or the voucher goes on to someone else, and they lose this opportunity because they’re having to constantly move around.” According to the DPD media relations unit, DPD officers can request the Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) unit to engage unhoused individuals living in RVs, rather than directly engaging and issuing citations. The STAR program is a specially trained unit that sends mental health specialists or paramedics to respond to nonviolent situations. The unit, founded in 2020, is designed to “engage individuals experiencing crises related to mental health issues, poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse,” according to its website. During several months of conducting research and interviewing individuals at multiple RV camping locations for this article, none of the individuals who spoke to Denver VOICE had been contacted by the STAR unit. Instead, many of these individuals reported being harassed by on-duty officers Jeff Landis said he had been heavily monitored and harassed by one specific officer but did not want to give the officer’s name for fear of future retaliation. Not all interactions with officers were negative, though. Josh, who asked to be identified by only his first name for DEVINE CARTER AND HER PARTNER CORNELIUS JENKINS HAVE BEEN LIVING IN THEIR 22-FOOT TRAILER FOR OVER 18 MONTHS. “Each lot has a lot of autonomy [to decide who can park and for how long],” CSPI Executive Director Terrell Curtis said. “Right now, they only operate overnight and the vehicles leave in the morning, and that makes it a lot harder with an RV.” Curtis said it is unreasonable to expect unhoused individuals to get off the street on their own, and this expectation comes from a level of ‘privilege’ that is out of touch with the realities of homelessness. “We need to shift our systems and lower barriers to accessing housing,” Curtis said. “There are shelters and affordable housing that you can’t go to if you have some sort of criminal background or drug offense. Most shelters also don’t allow pets. We need to be realistic about the needs. You’re going to be lucky if you can get into housing.” CSPI does not currently have a lot dedicated to RVs, and not all lots allow RVs to utilize the service. October 2022 DENVER VOICE 7 LANDIS HAS USED MANY CREATIVE APPROACHES TO REPAIR HIS CAMPER OVER TIME. Carter spends many nights on the phone with her mother who has dementia. It isn’t uncommon for them to have the same conversation multiple times in an hour. Carter is glad she can be there for her mom and plans to remain in Denver as long as her mom needs her. Eventually, Jenkins and Carter are hoping to find a permanent home – one without wheels. They just don’t think it will be in Denver. Jenkins’ job allows him to transfer to other locations throughout the country. They are looking at Detroit, or possibly Arizona. Someplace with lower housing costs. Jenkins and Carter worry that leaving Denver will make it harder for them to help their children and Carter’s mother. “We got the same problems as people in a house,” Carter said. “We just do it in a smaller place.” ■ privacy reasons, said a DPD officer helped him when he was unable to start his RV. The police officer had Josh’s camper towed to another location at no charge. According to Josh, the officer thought the new location would be a safe place to park while the vehicle was being repaired. TRYING TO REBUILD Jenkins is proud of what he has accomplished. He carries around a black binder with all the licenses and credentials he earned while running his small construction company. It even has letters from the days he worked for Marriott Hotels, including one offering him a job with a six-figure salary to oversee the maintenance of multiple hotels. He has misgivings about not taking the security that comes with a corporate job. He had been told all his life that true prosperity came through owning a small business. Jenkins thought his finances were improving, but then, the pandemic hit, and his son’s mental health became a bigger issue. “I always say I have been rich twice and I have been poor twice. But I don’t know if there is any coming back from this,” Jenkins said. Jenkins now works full-time for a car parts company. Carter works full time, too, but their combined income isn’t enough to come up with a deposit and pay rent. SEEKING A NEW OPTION One organization working towards a solution for individuals living in RVs is the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative, which offers overnight parking for individuals living in vehicles throughout the front range. The organization partners with faith-based organizations and businesses to provide overnight parking at 12 different locations throughout the metro area. Every vehicle must move in the morning because the current lots are used by the host locations for business or programming purposes. “We want to [open a parking lot specifically for RVs] because there is such a high need,” Curtis said. “The City of Denver zoning allows it, but it falls under an ordinance [governing] trailer parks. If we provide for several RV-type vehicles together in a space, it is considered a trailer park, and we have to provide dump stations, electric hookups, and all this other stuff that we’re not in a position to do right now.” CSPI was awarded a $150,000 contract from the city to operate a parking site and to explore providing an RVspecific lot. But the unique requirements of zoning laws for mobile homes and trailers may not make a lot dedicated to RVs feasible. Many of those who park at CSPI have jobs and are experiencing homelessness for the first time. Most are trying to work while actively seeking permanent housing – all while trying to stay safe without running afoul of the law. “There is trauma that comes with the uncertainty when you’re living on the edge,” Curtis said. “You’re trying to stay warm; you’re trying to stay cool, and you’re trying to get to work and not look like you spent the night in your car. That level of anxiety wears on you. Living in a heightened state over time is damaging. Even just one night would be traumatic, especially over time. It can impact folks’ reslience.” Individuals staying in a safe parking lot do have the security of being in the same place every evening. This makes accessing case managers from different service providers easier. FOCUSING ON FAMILY Carter and Jenkins are the hub of a big family. From time to time, Carter and Jenkins’s children and grandchildren come by. “We don’t want anyone to treat us any differently,” Jenkins said. “When the grandkids come by, they go straight for the fridge looking for treats.” “They clean us out,” Carter said laughing.

NATIONAL STORY SEATTLE DESIGN FESTIVAL FILLED LAKE UNION PARK, AUG. 20, FOR THE BLOCK PARTY THAT OPENED A WEEK OF EVENTS CELEBRATING THE THEME OF “CONNECTION” THROUGH DESIGN. CREDIT: TREVOR DYKSTRA/FLICKR. MODELING A NEW HOUSING METHOD, WITH THOUGHTFUL DESIGN BY ASHLEY ARCHIBALD ON A CLEAR DAY LOOKING OUT FROM THE PARK at the southern end of South Lake Union with its low, arching water feature and the gleaming former naval warehouse that is now the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), you’ll see the impressions of the Cascades, made hazy by their deceptive distance. On one such day, a sunny August weekend that had attracted the usual crowd of kayak practitioners, dog walkers, and wooden boat fans, Denise Henrikson stood next to a model of a terraced hillside set with small, wood boxes representing homes and handmade cardboard trees. It was pointed across the lake and toward the mountains: If proportionally tiny denizens lived there, theoretically, they could enjoy the view. Henrikson and the model were there for the Seattle Design Festival, a celebration of innovative ideas and a future that could be. She and the organization she cofounded, EcoTHRIVE, have had a place at the Design Festival for the past two years. In fact, several of the design professionals who have since joined or otherwise worked with EcoTHRIVE discovered the organization there. During that time, Henrikson and co-founder Susan Russell, a former Real Change vendor, conceived of, planned, and began the slow work of creating the community represented by the model: a sustainable, intentional village in the truest sense, born out of a sense of joint responsibility and legal ownership. CREDIT: TREVOR DYKSTRA/FLICKR. 8 DENVER VOICE October 2022 This could be the year, however, that the village morphs from cardboard and paste animated by dreams into wood and nails, constructed by hands and framed by that gorgeous mountain view. By the end of the year, EcoTHRIVE hopes to purchase a plot of land in Burien. If it closes that deal, it will be the site of a village of 26 homes — ranging between 350 and 650 square feet — and shared communal spaces. Residents will have to make a percentage of the area median income (AMI) — hopefully close to 40-50% AMI, Henrikson said — and will buy a share in the limited equity co-operative, creating an affordable home ownership model that guarantees that the unit will continue to be affordable to the next potential purchasers in perpetuity. Unlike “traditional” affordable housing, residents must income qualify to enter, but not to stay. The ownership model means that if their life circumstances change, they aren’t forced to give up their home or relationships with neighbors. “If you own it, there is no disincentive. If you get a better job, you get a better job and you have more money,” she said. The idea began as an art project. Russell envisioned art as a way to break down barriers between housed and unhoused people and “to replace fear with love.” NATIONAL STORY DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. CREDIT: TREVOR DYKSTRA/FLICKR. Henrikson and Russell approached people — housed and unhoused — with a simple but profound question: What do you need to thrive? Hundreds of conversations later, they landed on the village concept and decided to make it a reality. “How hard could that be?” Henrikson said, recalling their early naiveté. Financing and building affordable housing differ from market-rate construction in critical ways that add complexity to a process that must already adapt to factors beyond any organization’s control, such as market conditions, supply chains, unit costs, and more. Land is one of the biggest costs associated with any development, especially in land-scarce areas like the Sound region. Affordable housing developers can sometimes get land transferred or sold below market rate by local governments or other organizations, but they may have to buy the property outright, which is what EcoTHRIVE is doing. Raising money for such a venture is challenging, especially when it comes to affordable homeownership models, which don’t necessarily qualify for the same sources of funding as more typical affordable rental housing. Even that isn’t simple. The Low Income Housing Institute once told Real Change that it can take as many as nine separate streams of funding to complete a typical project. Willowcrest, an affordable homeownership project in Renton that opened in 2021, required 11 sources of funding to create 12 townhomes, according to Homestead Community Land Trust. Affordable housing also comes with different and sometimes more onerous construction standards than typical market-rate housing. The realities of piecing together a project changed EcoTHRIVE’s target audience. The team wanted to create a community for people in the lowest income bracket — those making less than 30% AMI — but it ultimately didn’t seem doable. “The best we can do, and, what we’re shooting for now, is to cap it at 50%. Even that — with all of the increases in cost for labor and materials and land and debt — we’re going to do everything we can to cap it at 50% of area median income, but that’s $55,000 a year!” Henrickson said. The organization aims to raise $1.5 million to $2 million in order to close on the land sale in Burien before the end of 2022 and pay for early site improvements. It’s already sunk more than $150,000 into design and other “soft” costs, so there is a sense of urgency to get it done. But Henrikson remains positive not only for this project but also for the possibility of replicating the model elsewhere. “I think people are going to love living here. The thing that we heard the most is that people want community and that makes a big difference in people’s lives,” Henrikson said. ■ Courtesy of Real Change / International Network of Street Papers AT THE ECOTHRIVE EXHIBIT, VISITORS MANEUVERED WOOD BLOCKS AND HANDMADE TREES UPON A CARDBOARD HILL TO IMAGINE THE SUSTAINABLE VILLAGE THE ORGANIZATION HOPES TO BUILD IN BURIEN. CREDIT: TREVOR DYKSTRA/FLICKR. October 2022 DENVER VOICE 9 The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org

INTERNATIONAL STORY LIFTING UP INDIGENOUS WOMEN ON INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ DAY AND EVERY DAY BY NIA TERO & AMPLIFIER WHILE PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD INCREASINGLY EXPERIENCE THE ALARMING EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE, solutions to healing the planet have been right in front of us all along. Countless Indigenous peoples have lived in reciprocity with Earth since time immemorial. Despite centuries of colonization and ongoing threats to their sovereignty, Indigenous peoples collectively sustain 80% of the world’s HINALEIMOANA WONG-KALU (KANAKA MAOLI) is a Native Hawaiian teacher, cultural practitioner, and filmmaker who uses digital media to protect and perpetuate Indigenous languages and traditions. POSTER DESIGNED BY TRACIE CHING AND CINDY CHISCHILLY. COURTESY OF NIA TERO / AMPLIFIER remaining biodiversity today, including ecosystems essential to our global climate, fresh water, and food security. Indigenous practices offer a critical pathway to healing a planet in crisis, and a unique global art project is recognizing inspiring Indigenous women leaders upholding both Indigenous rights and guardianship of collective territories. ‘Thriving Peoples. Thriving Places.’ is the latest in a series of collaborations between Nia Tero, a global non-profit working in solidarity with Indigenous peoples to strengthen guardianship of Earth and all beings, and Amplifier, a nonprofit design lab that makes art and media experiments to amplify the most important social movements of our time. Expanding upon the 12 portraits commissioned in 2021, this year’s four new portraits are a collaboration between illustrators Tracie Ching (Kanaka Maoli) and Cindy Chischilly (Diné). The art will be available digitally and at public art events in cities including Seattle (USA), Auckland (Aotearoa), and Manila (Philippines). The project celebrates the vibrant and ever-present leadership of Indigenous women in protecting biodiversity and leading grassroots movements to drive action for the health of the planet. This year’s activation launches on 10 October 2022, Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Turtle Island (North America). Like International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in August, activities on this day recognize the harm of colonialism and the importance of Indigenous land sovereignty. The Indigenous women being honored with portraits this year are activists, educators, and climate experts working not for personal gain but for collective thriving, rooted FLOR PALMAR (WAYUU IIPUANA) is a leading figure in Venezuela’s effort to develop bilingual, multicultural education for the nation’s diverse Indigenous peoples. In addition to having worked in Venezuela’s Ministry of Education as coordinator of Programs in the Office of Bilingual Intercultural Education and serving as a member of the National Commission on Curriculum within the Ministry of Education, she has authored and co-authored international publications related to the history and practice of Indigenous education. ALISHA “DIINASHII” CARLSON (NEETS’AII GWICH’IN) follows in the footsteps of her Ancestor’s creativity and imagination. In addition to her filmmaking endeavors, she works for the Arctic Village Tribal Council and is a mother to her two children. She has her AAS degrees in Accounting and Business. She has always been active in ensuring that Gwich’in dance and songs continue for generations to come. She looks forward to making more films in the Gwich’in language that uplift her beautiful culture. POSTER DESIGNED BY TRACIE CHING AND CINDY CHISCHILLY. COURTESY OF NIA TERO / AMPLIFIER POSTER DESIGNED BY TRACIE CHING AND CINDY CHISCHILLY. COURTESY OF NIA TERO / AMPLIFIER NATALIE BALL (BLACK, MODOC, KLAMATH) was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Ethnic Studies in 2005, furthered her education in New Zealand, at Massey University, where she attained her master’s degree in Maori Visual Arts, and earned her MFA from Yale University School of Art in painting and printmaking in 2018. She currently resides with her three children on the Klamath Tribes former reservation, Chiloquin, Oregon where she works for the Klamath Tribes. Natalie Ball is an Indigenous artist who examines internal and external discourses that shape Indian identity through contemporary installation art. POSTER DESIGNED BY TRACIE CHING AND CINDY CHISCHILLY. COURTESY OF NIA TERO / AMPLIFIER 10 DENVER VOICE October 2022 INTERNATIONAL STORY in their ancestral homelands across Turtle Island, Africa, and the Global South. Each carries forward traditional knowledge honoring their ancestors while shining a path for future generations. “THE SOLUTION TO HEALING THE PLANET IS RIGHT IN FRONT OF US” As we head toward the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Sharm ElSheikh, Egypt, and United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in Montreal, Canada, it is crucial to remember that climate solution conversations don’t just happen during state-led meetings. The women honored in this initiative and many more like them are driving change daily and weekly, locally and regionally, and across cohesive networks of Earth guardians. The organic and ceaseless ways in which Indigenous knowledge is conveyed are not unlike the street paper network bringing this story to you today: purposeful, vigilant, community-led, and future-focused. This year’s ‘Thriving Peoples. Thriving Places.’ campaign continues to elevate the importance of women in movements toward Indigenous sovereignty and participation in climate solutions. Despite facing gender-based violence, educational barriers, and economic hardships, unfailingly show up, inspiring action and creating change. The Indigenous leaders recognized here are reticent to put themselves in the spotlight. Instead, they work tirelessly and in reciprocity with the planet and the communities around them. Their work never stops – and nor should our support of them. This Indigenous Peoples’ Day – and every day – is a good time to ask: “How can I support what these dedicated women are doing? And how can I create a brighter future for my community and Mother Earth alongside them?” ■ To learn more about this year’s ‘Thriving Peoples. Thriving Places.’ campaign and see the portraits, go to: NiaTero.org/ThrivingPeoples Courtesy of the INSP / Nia Tero / Amplifier Indigenous women HINDOU OUMAROU IBRAHIM (MBORORO) is a member of the Mbororo pastoralist people in Chad. She is an expert in the adaptation and mitigation of Indigenous peoples to climate change. Oumarou Ibrahim serves as a Member of the United Nations Permanent Forum for Indigenous Issues and was one of 15 women highlighted for championing action on climate change by Time Magazine in 2019. BACK ON THE STREETS BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE POSTER DESIGNED BY TRACIE CHING AND CINDY CHISCHILLY. COURTESY OF NIA TERO / AMPLIFIER Editor’s Note: In May the Denver VOICE published a story that Brian Augustine wrote as part of the International Network of Street Paper’s “Housing for the People” series. In that story, Augustine explained how circumstances led to him losing the house he called home over a decade ago. Recently, the rent on Augustine’s apartment went up significantly. No longer able to afford it, Augustine has returned to living on the streets. We asked Augustine to write about his experience and share the experiences of others in similar situations. Following are the reactions he’s documented leading up to his move, along with the health issues that landed him in the hospital four days after he moved out. This is the first in a new column he is writing for the VOICE called “Back on the Streets.” PACKING UP After over 11 years, I’m losing my place to live. The landlord has raised my rent again, and I cannot afford the rent any longer. I’m not making the income I did before the pandemic, and all my savings have been depleted. Not even a dollar to back me up. I’m nervous. The streets I am returning to are not the ROSA MARINA FLORES CRUZ (AFRO-BINNIZÁ/ AFRO-ZAPOTEC) is from Juchitán, Mexico, an Indigenous town in the state of Oaxaca. She is an activist empowering Indigenous peoples, and her focus is on women’s rights, land rights, agrarian rights, and environmental education. POSTER DESIGNED BY TRACIE CHING AND CINDY CHISCHILLY. COURTESY OF NIA TERO / AMPLIFIER same streets I left so many years ago. More people being homeless means fewer resources to go around. And they’re harder to get. The friends I had then are either housed, live in the suburbs, or have passed away. No matter when you live on the street, homelessness is a hard bed to sleep in. As I pack up my belongings, I’m so happy remembering that many of them are gifts from so many of you. Those gifts are going into storage because when I find a new place, I don’t want to start from scratch again. I will continue to vend the Denver VOICE. I would be lost without seeing all of you. I will also keep you posted through this, my new column. FACING HOMELESSNESS When facing homelessness, there’s the decision of whether to sleep in the shelter system or bag it on the street. The shelter system gives a higher level of security, but it comes with a higher risk of becoming sick while sleeping outside comes with the fear of thieves or even getting a beating. But, on the streets, becoming sick is less likely. I started my first time homeless in the shelter system but moved to bagging it. I did this for health reasons. The best thing that happened to me was the Denver VOICE. It has given me so much – from an income to helping me discover my talent for writing. I have also been able to hang around people who enjoy vending the Denver VOICE as much as I do. FOUR DAYS IN I didn’t see this coming so quickly. Only four days into my second time being homeless, and I’ve been hospitalized. I woke up not being able to move my right leg. I still have feeling in my leg, but my brain signals aren’t reaching the nerves. Not a stroke. I’ve had CAT scans, an ultrasound, and four MRIs. I’ve also seen 10 neurologists. (I feel really taken care of. Everyone has more than shown their compassion.) I’ll be going into a rehab facility for about two weeks because my spine is deteriorating. By the time you read this, I should be back to greet you in the mornings at my regular vending spot. ■ October 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS GUESS WHAT, SELF? WHEN YOU LET PAIN GO, YOU’LL SEE A CHANGE! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR WHICH SHOULD MATTER MOST TO CHRISTIANS: LOVE OR HATE? BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE, VOICE VENDOR Now, I’ve learned to love everybody equally and can’t find hatred in my heart – not for Putin for his killing of innocent people for no better reason than to gain more land for his people – not for Hitler and the mass murders he was responsible for. Not for the person who has done bad things against me. The last book of the Bible, Revelations, says that everyone will stand before God and will be separated from His followers and all the others. It says that some will call out His name. “We are here, Lord.” And He will say, “I know you not.” I believe those people will be the ones that hate. Whether it is for color, sex, or, religious reasons, hate will block your path in life. So, I’ll end with this thought: No matter if we haven’t met, or, if we never do, you have my innocent and truly unconditional love. ■ BRIAN AUGUSTINE. CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL THE DEFINITION OF CHRISTIANITY IS “ follower of the teachings of Jesus.” That comes from the New Testament of the Bible. I am a Christian. It upsets me when I hear these so-called Christian groups spew hate-filled words out of their mouths. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA GUESS WHAT, SELF? Life is good because we got it together. Life, for many years, was hard because Self couldn’t love Self. Things change once we learn to love Self. We learn to put Self first because if we are happy then we make others happy. When that happens, we make life great for others and Self. Guess what? When you feel pain and do not let it go, it keeps you in pain. Pain makes bad choices when Self is hurting. You have the power to do good or bad. The choice is within you. Guess what, Self? Once you let go of the pain, things change. When you start to think of good things, good will come to you. Funny how it works. Holding onto bad things keeps bad coming your way. Flip your way of thinking. If you think of good coming your way, it will. Guess what, Self? At some point, you have to choose. Hold on tight to pain, and you’ll keep calling pain to you. Or, say you can’t change the past, but tell yourself, “I choose to let go of the pain. I choose to live and love Self and others. “ When you do that, you will end up in a life you never thought would happen, and that will be the best for you. Let go, Self. With love. ■ I’ve read the Bible several times, and nowhere, did I come across anything that said, “ Love thy neighbor – as long as they are the same color as you, believe as you do, or have committed the same sins as you.” I remember reading “Love the sinner. Hate the sin.” Nowhere does the Bible give the right for one human to hate another. Even if you believe you are free of all sin, you are guilty of the sin of false pride. My saying is don’t complain about the weeds in your neighbor’s yard when you’ve got even one weed in yours. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not some great Christian. I struggle every day with my problems. (The thorns in my side, so to speak.) I saw a man just the other day take off his shoes and give them to a guy who had none. I felt humbled by this action. And it gave me the knowledge of how far I need to go in my path. For me, that is what it takes to be a good Christian. When I became a Christian. I still had my anger and hatred issues. And my self-esteem was bad. But, I learned by reading the Bible to walk the walk. I’ve never been a chapter-and-verse guy. But, one thing Jesus said changed my self-esteem, “Love thy neighbor as I have loved you.” ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN 12 DENVER VOICE October 2022 EVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES DENVER WALKING TOURS Set out on this popular urban walking tour, while stopping to learn the history and stories behind the city’s top destinations and landmarks. Tour takes about 2 – 2.5 hours. WHEN: Daily at 10 a.m. COST: Pay-what-you-wish tipping model WHERE: Colorado State Capitol, 200 E. Colfax Ave. INFO: denverfreewalkingtours.com INTRO TO IMPROV: DROP-IN CLASS Curious to see if improv comedy is right for you? This drop-in workshop will allow you to sample RISE Comedy’s improv classes in a safe, supportive, and fun environment! WHEN: Oct 6, 13, 20, and 27, 6 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. COST: $10 WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. INFO: risecomedy.com PUMPKIN HARVEST FESTIVAL Celebrate the arrival of fall at this annual family-friendly event. Guests can enjoy live music, seasonal treats, axe throwing, tractor rides, pioneer games, and crafts. WHEN: Oct. 8 and Oct. 9, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. COST: $10 - 18 per person; children 6 and under are free. WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest Street INFO: fourmilepark.org GLOW AT THE GARDENS Start the spooky season off right by strolling through an illuminated gardens filled with carved jack-o’-lanterns. Performing artists add further theatrics at this enchanted and festive experience. WHEN: Oct. 18 - 23, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. COST: $19 - $25, free admission for children 2 and younger WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street INFO: botanicgardens.org NERD NITE If you’re a fan of TED talks, the Discovery Channel, and/or Wikipedia binges, Nerd Nite is the show for you! Three experts will present on three different topics, while the audience drinks and thinks along. Be there and be square! WHEN: Oct 28, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: $8 in advance, $10 at the door WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. INFO: nerdnitedenver.com HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR It’s a spooktacular outing for all boys and ghouls! This family-favorite event features music from films, television, and more! Costumes are encouraged — the best of the bunch will be invited to show off their creations on stage for the whole crowd! WHEN: Oct 30, 2:30 p.m. COST: Tickets start at $27, $10 for children under 12 WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall, 14th Ave. & Curtis St. INFO: coloradosymphony.org COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 N Y S S A D B U C K E Y E P T M A Y A N A R G I L T D V I A F I R R P A L M E B A L M N C T I M B E R R B Y L X O Y E E P L A O R C A G G E U C E R R O E T R R A G V N N S U W Y H P X U E P T A I U E E S W Y C L E A F I A V B L P A T V N L A O R B P L E P I R K I T Y O R T T P E P P H A R U S A L V A L O E L A C M O S C B S M E D T V L K A M C B P H H B C S P E A R E A N M F D D A T E O U E A P D S U K O I B O X L R T B A L S A T T S U G A Q M B October 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Walker Family Foundation Whole Foods Foundation Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Bright Funds Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Russell Peterson Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Jerry Conover Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Keyrenter Property Management Denver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Kroger Jana and Jim Cuneo Creating Healthier Communities Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren & Betty Kuehner Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 John Gibson Michael Dino Fire on the Mountain Blackbaud Giving Fund Christopher Boulanger GivingFirst, Community First Foundation Sheryl Parker Maggie Holben Alistair Davidson Laura Saunders Costco Barbara & Robert Ells Cake Websites & More Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremey Anderson Ridley, McGreevy & Winocur Stephen Saul WalMart 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 14 DENVER VOICE October 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org October 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 N Y S S A D B U C K E Y E P T M A Y A N A R G I L T D V I A F I R R P A L M E B A L M N C T I M B E R R B Y L X O Y E E P L A O R C A G G E U C E R R O E T R R A G V N N S U W Y H P X U E P T A I U E E S W Y C L E A F I A V B L P A T V N L A O R B P L E P I R K I T Y O R T T P E P P H A R U S A L V A L O E L A C M O S C B S M E D T V L K A M C B P H H B C S P E A R E A N M F D D A T E O U E A P D S U K O I B O X L R T B A L S A T T S U G A Q M B DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE TRANSFORMING THE DISCARDED FIERCELY INDEPENDENT, JOHN TORRES SHOWS IT IS POSSIBLE TO TRANSFORM WHAT ONE SEES AS TRASH INTO ANOTHER PERSON’S TREASURE. PAGE 6 ADDRESSING POVERTY IN OLD AGE IS A POLITICAL ISSUE HINZ&KUNZT , THE STREET PAPER OUT OF HAMBURG, GERMANY, DISCUSSES THE REALITIES FOR SENIOR CITIZENS EXPERIENCING POVERTY. PAGE 4 PAYING HOMAGE TO RAUL CHAVEZ PORTILLO JERRY AND JAY JARAMILLO’S COLORFUL AND SYMBOLIC MURAL MEMORIALIZES LOCAL AZTEC DANCER. PAGE 8 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 SEPTEMBER 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 9 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) Vendor Profi le: JOHN ALEXANDER FROM YOUR VENDOR: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE JOHN GOLDEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I HAD A GREAT DAY RECENTLY because I was able to share in the outstanding news that one of our vendors had secured stable housing. Truly something to celebrate. He was so happy to simply have house keys in his pocket, secure in the knowledge that he would return to his own home each night moving forward. As we move through our busy daily routines, it’s easy to forget how blessed so many of us are to have a roof over our ahead and return to the same place every day. It’s no secret that the cost of living in our area, particularly the price of rent, is prohibitive for many. People can’t afford to live in the communities they work in; they struggle to put gas in the car to make it to work so they can earn a living and feed their families. Fuel, food, and housing prices rise, but their income does not increase. Consequently, it is challenging to survive. Older adults planning to retire may find that they need to keep working. And some, retired and living on a fixed income, are forced to return to the workplace. My passion for working in the nonprofit sector is born out of a steadfast belief in community; the opportunity to join together to help those in need, collaborating on solutions to social issues such as poverty. The majority of us live paycheck to paycheck and are only one financial emergency away from needing help ourselves. During the height of the COVID pandemic, for example, many people who never saw themselves needing assistance, sat in long lines at food pantries. I am privileged to lead the Denver VOICE as we continue our longstanding commitment to help those struggling with poverty and homelessness in our community by providing a low barrier opportunity to make an income. I’m proud of our award-winning street newspaper and so thankful for our incredible team of staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and our many hardworking vendors. We welcome you to be a part of our community as everyone can make an impact! ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ASHTON BROWN graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in convergent journalism and a minor in cinema studies. She and her fiance currently live with their two cats in Lakewood. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR John Golden MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lara Keith GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kersten Jaeger Kendall Schmitz Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Asthon Brown Giles Clasen Gigi Galen WRITERS 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. 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. John Alexander Brian Augustine Ashton Brown Giles Clasen David Gordon Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 2 DENVER VOICE September 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US FEATURED VENDOR THE DREAM OF A HOMELESS PERSON BY JOHN ALEXANDER Several years ago, Denver VOICE Vendor John Alexander wrote The Dream of a Homeless Person. Recently, he added an update at the end of the poem. I WOKE UP THIS MORNING still fighting the fact that I have no home. Transient, indigent, I don’t have a key to anything that I can call my own. Looking at my shoes, frowning at my only change of clothes. I stayed there, I stayed here, where I’ll stay tonight only God knows. Hmm, it could be time for a shave, even a bath and some oral hygiene, too. The library restroom? No, maybe the truck stop over on 5th avenue. Well, now, I am getting kind of hungry, Where I’ll eat today, we’ll have to wait and see. Yesterday was breakfast from a restaurant dumpster, Lunch from a fast-food dumpster, And dinner from a grocery store dumpster. They were all the same to me. I will apply for some more jobs today, stop by a friend’s house, who said they had some money I could borrow. I am selling some plasma and cutting this lawn. Thank you, trust me, you’ll get it all back tomorrow. Everything today that I should do, will do, or can do is done. Since I still have time for it, I’ll enjoy the rest of the daylight, and take in some sun. Ahhhh, just feel the air. Look at the squirrels, the birds, why even all the beautiful women seem to be out. Hey, Hey, Hey, romance and sex is something right now, I can’t afford to think about. PHOTO BY BRUCE TANG ON UNSPLASH Well, it is getting cool. Soon it will be dark and cold again. Wherever I sleep tonight, I hope is better than where I slept last night, or anywhere else I’ve been. But tonight, I’ll go sleep with the same thought as every night before. That I’ll wake up tomorrow with a key to my house, and be homeless, no more! TODAY: DREAMS DO COME TRUE! Every word of every thought in this poem is true, and I lived them all. I have been homeless and on the street for 33 years! Sixteen years ago, I put these words together and organized my thoughts. Fifteen years ago, from those words, I wrote this poem. Today, I especially like these words in the last part of the poem, “But tonight, I’ll go to sleep with the same thought as every night before. That I’ll wake up tomorrow with a key to my house, and be homeless, no more!” For years, I have kept those words of that dream close to my heart every night. Well, today, I want to share with all of you, Dreams Do Come True! I woke up this morning, August 11, 2022, with an apartment of my own and a key to that apartment of my own. Both, belonging to me! ■ HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. September 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

INTERNATIONAL STORY ADDRESSING POVERTY IN OLD AGE IS A POLITICAL ISSUE BY ULRICH JONAS STACZEK [NAME CHANGED] SPENT TWENTY YEARS AT SEA, working for a Polish shipping company. According to the 80-yearold, he now receives a pension of 200 euros per month. In addition, he receives a few euros for the six years he spent as a removal worker in Hamburg. The former Hinz&Kunzt vendor was unable to put money towards a greater pension entitlement, as an employer pressured him to carry out illicit work. Later, various illnesses compounded the problem. Staczek is lucky to be able to live with a good friend at a reasonable rate. Thanks to that, and the 400 euros he receives in basic income support, he can just about make ends meet. But compromises are involved. “I used to be able to go home once a year for a week or two,” he says. “With today’s prices, that’s simply out of the question.” Staczek is one of about 50,000 in Hamburg, aged 65, or older, who suffer poverty in old age and therefore depend on the state’s support. That’s almost twice as many as 15 years ago. And the actual number of people in need is probably much higher. According to various studies, six out of every ten people who could receive basic income support in old age do not take advantage of this entitlement, whether out of shame, ignorance, or because the applications are so complicated. “There are people in Hamburg who tend to make themselves scarce at the end of the month. Because they’re worried about meeting someone who will say, ‘Let’s go have a coffee together!’ And they won’t be able to, because they don’t have any money to spare for that kind of thing,” reports Klaus Wicher, chairman of the Social Association of Germany (SoVD) in Hamburg. There are even people who are starving. “The increase in prices has been so tremendous that some people simply don’t have anything left by the end of the month.” The basic pension, a flagship project of the Federal Minister for Labour and Social Affairs, Hubertus Heil (SPD), helps very few. According to Wicher, only about every 50th affected person in Hamburg benefits from it. “And this is not even a basic pension, but rather a pension supplement,” he clarifies. It is paid under certain conditions to those who have been in employment for at least 33 years subject to social insurance contributions. Those who were not employed on a regular basis, who have only held shortterm positions, or who were self-employed are not eligible. Women in particular often have to get by on “minipensions,” according to the statistics. SoVD-chairman Wicher, therefore, consequently calls for fundamentally higher pensions, equal wages for women, and full recognition of periods of time spent in family and caregiver roles. While these are suggestions that the federal government would have to implement, Wicher believes that the Senate in Hamburg can also combat poverty in old age. One way of doing this is by using some of their own money to pay a 10% surcharge on top of the basic social security benefits, just like the city of Munich is doing. The RedGreen coalition rejected this idea already in 2019, citing missing data. The SoVD-chairman claims that this is simply an excuse. “It’s a matter of political conviction and the willingness to provide the necessary funds,” he says. Wicher insists that the Senate should make life easier for all people in need in Hamburg by implementing further measures quickly. These could include free train and bus tickets, free sports activities, and free admission to museums. He has been presenting these suggestions to the social security office, the SPD, and the Green Party for years – without success. In any case, the relief packages offered by the traffic light coalition will barely help those suffering poverty in old age, according to the SoVD-chairman. “One-off payments are of little use,” he says. “Significant increases in monthly allowances are what’s needed.” Michael David, who is in charge of old-age poverty at Diakonie Deutschland [the social welfare organization of Germany’s Protestant churches], made another suggestion. He suggests that if someone applies for a pension and it turns out to be a low one, it should automatically be reported to the social welfare office. The office could then check and verify the person’s further claims and thereby prevent hidden poverty in old age. “That way, the state can make sure that help is given to those who need it,” David concludes. ■ Translated from German via Translators without Borders Courtesy of Hinz&Kunzt / International Network of Street Papers PHOTO BY BRUCE TANG ON UNSPLASH NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water Paper products for the office GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks Carrier bags USB-C charging cables AUTUMN WISH LIST 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. 4 DENVER VOICE September 2022 ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. Q When someone asks “Why don’t you get a ‘real job’ instead of just vending the Denver VOICE?” what do you tell them? A BRIAN AUGUSTINE First, I tell them this IS a real job for me. I’ve kept the same hours, every week, for years. With my back injury, I have to lay on the floor flat on my back, two to three times a day. I will stay that way until the pain lessens enough that I can move. No one else would pay wages to someone who has to do that. DAVID GORDON I would ask what their definition of a real job is. Some define a job as steady, paid employment. As for paid employment, there are many factors to consider, but I hope, if something like that came my way, that it would not interfere with my other job with the Denver VOICE. I define a job as a task or responsibility for a VERY REAL problem. A friendly reminder that being unhoused in this city is a REAL problem. [The Denver VOICE paper] brings awareness to people in a city that has enormous hostility to REAL people who might be considered the most vulnerable on the planet. This is very REAL. I remind people that the Denver VOICE is a grassroots journalistic street paper, that talks about homelessness through those who have experienced it. The VOICE does not push a hateful narrative, based on fear and ignorance. I am on the front lines talking to REAL people about a REAL problem in hopes to have a REAL conversation and REAL solutions. JERRY ROSEN I tell them I AM working a job. I do temporary work and volunteer work, also. I tell them I like selling papers, as I enjoy working for myself. I sometimes do work as a busboy or dishwasher, but I like doing this job, as nobody is on top of me, and I can work my own hours. RAELENE JOHNSON I simply let them know that some of us vendors do not have the required qualifications for an application to be accepted at a lot of places, or that prospective employers would hold our past against us. I would rather be doing the newspaper than holding up a sign or begging for money. This paper gives dignity, self-worth, and respect to the vendors because we are giving our customers an award-winning newspaper, and they’re not just giving; they can see the change in me and the other vendors! JOHN ALEXANDER When people ask, “Why don’t you get a real job?” I express to them that I am not just vending the Denver VOICE; nor am I just working a job, whether they think it’s a “real job” or not. As a Denver VOICE vendor, I am self-employed. I have a job, and I have a real business. The Denver VOICE is my only job. I love it. There is plenty of work for me right here, where I am, and the more I work, the more I am developing and building my OWN business. I am 72. I’ve been working ever since I was seven years old. I have been working this real job for 15 years. I am the employee of the month this month. I have been the employee of the month every month for 15 years, straight. The people that have bought papers from me and the other vendors over the years support us, just like they would any other business, where someone purchases products or services. The ability to give to others is one of God’s kindest and most noble gifts. Helping other people to help themselves is part of the very foundation that our country and all of our American spiritual institutions stand on. Some time ago, a few broad-minded men and women came up with this strange, off-the-hook idea that they could help fight homelessness [by publishing street papers] that would help people get jobs and become self-employed. Wow! Well, today, that concept is practiced in nearly every state in the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. What if the people who had this far-out idea had stood back, and if the only idea they came up with was to ask people, “Why don’t you get a real job?” Because of those few people, there are individuals all over the world, who, like me, DO have a real job, and a real business, too. ■ September 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE TRANSFORMING THE DISCARDED BY GILES CLASEN JOHN TORRES hates when people look at his amputated leg and pigeonhole him or feel sorry for him. “Some people look at my leg, stare at my leg — but I don’t give a fuck,” Torres said. “Some people think I need a lot of help, but I get by fine on my own. It kind of pisses me off when people insist on helping. I can do about anything and will ask for help if I need it — which I don’t.” Now, Torres spends his days scavenging anything he can from alleys and dumpsters. Torres makes an okay living finding, repairing, then selling items on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Torres lost his leg nearly 18 months ago on account of diabetes. He had faced infections and sores for a long time. His leg developed blisters, which caused painful wounds that wouldn’t heal, and those slowed him down. “It wasn’t nothing to lose it. It had to go. It was making me sick. I had sepsis; it wasn’t good,” Torres said. He has a very matter-of-fact demeanor when talking about the amputation. Torres doesn’t lament his leg, and as he talked about losing it, he repeated several times, “It had to go.” Then, after a pause, he said, with a wry grin and in a soft tone, “I never thought I would have a leg like this, though.” While he may not mourn the loss of his leg, Torres misses the community that was once North Denver and the neighborhood where he grew up, surrounded by family members who have since passed away. To honor his loved ones, Torres had a custom tattoo designed with the names of his grandfather, grandmother, and mother listed in one work of art on his left arm. He calls it “the dead arm,” a living memorial to what he has lost. Torres canvases neighborhoods, alleys, and dumpsters for anything of value. He considers it work that is good for his community, the environment, and himself. He is proud that he can find something broken, destined for the landfill — and by showing another person’s trash a little love, he can transform it into a new treasure for someone else. Torres is always on the hunt for items he can make new again. One evening, he received a tip that a mini fridge was sitting in a nearby alley. There also happened to be an abandoned grocery cart near the fridge, so Torres wasted no time getting the shopping cart just right as he positioned his motorized wheelchair. He then lifted his good leg out of the chair, and stood on the concrete, his amputated leg propped on the scooter’s seat. Leaning on the cart for balance, Torres pivoted quickly, wrapping his torso and arms around the fridge. His movement was practiced and intentional. Once he had the fridge within his grip, Torres lifted it and then quickly packed it for the journey home. Torres refers to what he does as both work and a hobby. It gives him purpose and some money. He also enjoys the adventures scavenging offers. “I see it as a treasure hunt. Every day I am searching for something new, something I can sell,” Torres said. There is a lot of skill and a lot of luck in scavenging. It is CREDIT: GILES CLASEN tough to find a diamond in the rough; sometimes it is even harder to find the right person to buy what Torres found, repaired, and returned to service. 6 DENVER VOICE September 2022 LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN He collects disability and has stable housing. But sometimes, money is hard to come by, and his disability payments only go so far. The extra income he earns helps pay the bills. Torres is known to travel 50 blocks a day or more in his scooter, zigzagging through alleys and residential streets. “I charge my scooter and I go,” Torres said. “Just because I’m disabled doesn’t mean I’m going to stop. Losing my leg won’t stop me.” Torres said a lot of people go through depression when they lose a limb or face other serious medical issues. While Torres is upbeat, he acknowledges that he also suffers from depression but says he works hard to fight it and live as normal a life as possible. Torres has the support of his girlfriend, which has been monumental for him. “Sometimes I get down a little bit. But she says, ‘It doesn’t matter, babe. I still love you,’” Torres said with a smile. Torres strives to be the first to find items he believes are worth selling, even though someone else cast them aside. “I’ve got four mortal enemies,” Torres said. “The trash man, skunks, raccoons, and the pawn shop. The trash man’s doing his job, so you let that go. The skunk and raccoon — they don’t know any better. But the pawn shop... they’re thieves. They want to give you nothing in exchange for gold. Pawn shops steal from me, so I only have hate for them.” (And yes, Torres has been sprayed by skunks while working.) When he comes across certain items, Torres sees them as small kindnesses that brighten his day. For example, he came across a TV placed gently against a trash can — as though it had been left there just for him. Torres looked the TV over and noticed a scratch on the surface of the screen, but there was no other damage. He was confident he could CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN buff out the scratch and make the TV as good as new. He then put the remote control in his chair’s storage and lifted the TV to his lap. With the shopping cart full, Torres flicked his chair’s joystick and motored forward, faster than any jogger or a Lime scooter could keep up with. Then, he proceeded to another neighborhood, another set of alleys to patrol, certain he could fit more in the shopping cart before he headed home. ■ September 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE PAYING HOMAGE TO RAUL CHAVEZ PORTILLO Father and son team’s symbolic mural memorializes local Aztec dancer BY ASHTON BROWN AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER of 10th Ave. and Santa Fe Dr., in the heart of the Santa Fe Art District, is a mural commemorating the life of local Aztec dance leader Raul Chavez Portillo, who passed away in May at the age of 70. The mural is the creation of father and son Jerry and Jay Jaramillo, in recognition of Chavez’s legacy. In 1992, Chavez founded his dance group Huitzilopochtli which he named for the Aztec god of sun and war, as a way to celebrate the Aztec culture and create greater awareness of its customs. THE MURAL CREATED BY JERRY AND JAY JARAMILLO “TLALOC,” IS A TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF RAUL CHAVEZ-PORTILLO, AN AZTEC DANCER AND FOUNDER OF THE DANCE GROUP, HUITZILOPOCHTLI. CREDIT: ASHTON BROWN JERRY JARAMILLO (LEFT) AND JAY JARAMILLO (RIGHT) STAND NEXT TO “TLALOC.” CREDIT: ASHTON BROWN 8 DENVER VOICE September 2022 COMMUNITY PROFILE Over several decades, Huitzilopochtli performed frequently on the Auraria Campus. While he was a student at Metropolitan State University, Jay Jaramillo was a regular audience member of these performances. During this period, Chavez spent a lot of time with the Jaramillos and became like family to them. Jerry and Jay Jaramillo titled their mural, “Tlaloc,” after the supreme Aztec god of thunder and lightning. In the painting, Chavez is depicted as Tlaloc, surrounded by several Aztec symbols. Just above Chavez’s head is a roaring jaguar, a symbol of power. In the painting, the jaguar is emitting lightning bolts from its open mouth. The feathered serpent in the mural is a symbol of knowledge and is often seen in Aztec and Mayan art. The feathers also represent Chavez being in the “spirit realm,” meaning he now has feathers in the afterlife. The empty space below Chavez’s head is intentional to represent his soul in the cosmos. Jay Jaramillo said he applied for a permit to create this particular mural because that section of Santa Fe Drive has been like a home to him. Jerry Jaramillo, a renowned artist, jeweler, and sculptor, owned an art gallery in the district, and his art shows and exhibits frequently included Jay’s paintings. Since then, the neighborhood has changed significantly. “We really had a home going on here, but we’ve been kind of displaced like a lot of people in Denver,” said Jay. Painting the mural gave Jay and his father an opportunity to interact with their old community. The Jaramillos believe “Tlaloc” brings honor to the Aztec and Mexican cultures and hope the mural will “preserve the culture of the community,” while also honoring Chavez’s life. What makes “Tlaloc” especially significant is that it reflects the Aztec culture without any reference to European influences. It is purely Aztec art. According to the Jaramillos, “Tlaloc” is ultimately about healing for Chavez’s family and the community he inspired so much. “Raul’s family lives not too far from here, and his daughter drove by here the other day so they could have some healing too, I feel like he passed away a little too young,” said Jay. The mural itself is a bit of a time capsule. States that used to be Mexico such as Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, were called Aztlan, the Aztec capital, which is also referred to as “the land toward the north.” This Aztec influence is still present in these landscapes, including towns and cities throughout Colorado. By creating this memorial of Chavez in the Santa Fe Art District Jay Jaramillo says it’s a way of “going back in time,” and showcasing that Aztec influence on modern-day life. With the mural, Jay Jaramillo believes it will ensure legacy Chavez’s lives on. “Sometimes you lose the grandmother or the grandfather of the family. and the family culture falls apart, so we wanted for the people to see him—especially in the neighborhood where his family still lives,” he said. ■ DONATE YOUR CAR! Need to get rid of your car, truck, or motorcycle? Consider donating it to Denver VOICE. Call (855) 500-7433, or go to: careasy.org/nonprofi t/denver-voice. Your donation helps Denver VOICE succeed in its mission to provide individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty the chance towards a more stable life. The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We 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. VOLUNTEER WITH US! We are looking for volunteers to support our program coordination by helping with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at the Denver VOICE offi ce (989 Santa Fe Dr.) from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at: program@denvervoice.org September 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY IN CIRKONEO, SERBIA, CIRCUS IS A SPACE FOR SECURITY AND TOGETHERNESS BY DIVNA STOJANOV WHEN I FIRST VISITED CREATIVE PLANT, I was struck by the great joy of everyone present. Within the framework of the Cirkoneo circus school, through workshop activities and playing games, the circus pedagogists teach children and youth circus skills including acrobatics, balancing, and juggling. They start every class in a circle where they talk about what new things have happened to them and how they feel. It’s during these moments that the junior elementary school students can talk about peer bullying or the fact that they have learned to multiply by nine. Thus, Cirkoneo is not only a place where children and youth learn tightrope walking, aerial silks, and nonverbal communication; it is also a space of safety, friendship, and mental and physical development that is unburdened by competitive spirit. As Dragan Jajić, the founder of the Creative Plant points out, pedagogy is prioritized over physical prowess in the circus school. “We develop critical thinking in children, and we discuss bullying and mental health with them,” Jajić says. “We teach them values such as cooperation, mutual respect and recognition, and the acceptance of differences. We never impose our own opinions, but we ask them questions so that they can come up with answers on their own.” Contemporary circus, as opposed to the circus that we see in films or remember from our childhood, doesn’t have animal acts, doesn’t show people with physical deformities, and rejects the familiar structure from the past – the rotation of circus acts and clown performances. Instead, it focuses on the process and the mutual work of all participants, it deals with socially relevant subjects, and it uses elements of physical theatre, dance, acting, and improvisation. However, one thing that circus has maintained from its very beginnings to this day is the understanding of the marginalized. “Circus has always, through both its ups and downs, communicated with the rejected, with the marginalized, and with those who refuse to fit into the system,” Jajić points out. The Creative Plant association, according to him, explores and practices social circus, which gathers the community together, promotes imagination, provides support, and improves the position of people of all ages through the artistic, social, pedagogic, and community values of the circus. A very significant activity of Creative Plant is related to their work in the villages of Vojvodina and the founding of independent cultural outposts in rural areas where the cultural content has been reduced to a minimum. Creative Plant starts working with these communities by organizing circus workshops in small locations, which gives the locals of all ages an opportunity to become closer, build trust, exchange ideas, and share problems; then, they work 10 DENVER VOICE September 2022 PHOTOS COURTESY OF CIRKONEO together to resolve problems through joint action. Creative Plant succeeded in rallying the locals of one village to take the initiative and renovate a children’s playground, while in another village, a cultural center was set up in a formerly dilapidated space. Creative Plant helps the local population by empowering them and helping them connect with municipal institutions to gather funds in collaboration with businesspeople or by writing projects. It also assists them in planning projects’ sustainability, and it also helps with renovations, furnishing the space, and networking with other cultural centers. When one cycle ends, Creative Plant stays in active communication with the community, supports their new actions, provides them with the tools for solving future problems, and shows them that it’s possible to affect the quality of life in a local community through activism. Through the new project titled “Find Your Balance – With the Circus”, this organization is going to hold balancing technique workshops in ten elementary schools in Novi Sad and, through them, explore the effects of practicing circus skills on the development of social and emotional skills in children. “Circus improves focus, builds selfconfidence, promotes persistence and patience, and develops communication skills, tolerance, and the feeling of responsibility for oneself and others,” says Ivana Grković from Creative Plant. This is exactly why, in many developed countries, the contemporary circus is one of the favorite compulsory and optional subjects in schools. “Our wish is to foster these skills in our country as well,” she smiles. ■ Translated from Serbian via Translators without Borders Courtesy of Liceulice / International Network of Street Papers INTERNATIONAL STORY HOUSING FOR THE PEOPLE: “THE LANDLORD GREED MACHINE” BY BRONWYN JONES CARVER MY NAME IS BRONWYN JONES CARVER. I have been homeless for seven years this June. At the time, Portland was just starting to experience the landlord greed machine as they raised rents by ridiculous amounts. I was no exception to this. My two-bedroom apartment in inner southeast Portland — where I had lived for 15 years, raised a family, buried pets, and planted flowers — became a casualty of said greed. I paid $850 a month, and the landlord’s son wanted to raise it to $1,625. The increase was not acceptable, let alone affordable. I worked a job I would soon leave due to the burden of high stress. My husband was not employed at the time. I agonized over the impending no-cause eviction. It was June 2015. We went to court to try to mediate an agreement. We had been late twice in the previous five years and could not understand why this was happening. Court was a joke. The judge sided with the landlord and told us we could reapply at the new price of $1,625. Our other option was to vacate voluntarily by June and avoid a formal eviction. Needless to say, we vacated. My husband and I moved into our minivan with our three cats in tow. I tried to make it a positive thing, some kind of adventure we were setting out to encounter. I couldn’t have been more wrong. That summer, we dealt with extreme heat, and I did not know how to cool us down. As the summer moved into fall, we continued to live in the van. We would park for as long as we could in various spots away from the public’s view, to maintain some form of privacy. Portland Bureau of Transportation, commonly referred to as PBOT, seemed to be following us. Each time we found a new spot that seemed out of the way, they would post us for removal. Each time, we packed up, and off we went in search of another spot. As fall turned to winter and the rain came, we discovered the places our van leaked. We discovered how the cat litter would get soaked and spread everywhere. When the cold snap hit and temperatures got so low — into single digits — my husband, myself, and our three cats lay under a pile of blankets shivering and praying we did not die that night. It was horrible. Neither of us had any idea how to stay warm. Our van was slowly starting to have mechanical issues, mostly struggling to start, and PBOT was hot on our bumper, posting those green notices everywhere we parked. Nowhere was safe. I began to get really depressed. The husband and I started to bicker over stupid things. The stress of living in the van in such a tight space was unraveling our marriage. The cold continued, and the snow that started to fall added to the frigid temperature in the van. I worried for the cats more than myself and my spouse. We then saw the Mister Buddy indoor heater another friend used inside their tent. That little heater saved our lives, I am sure. The radiant propane heat was so warm. I can still remember how good that first bit of heat felt on the body. The cats stopped shivering, and it helped to dry the inside of the van. After two years of PBOT chasing us around Portland and placing those green stickers on our windows demanding we move, the van was no longer registered. My husband and I were unemployed, so there was no money to register the vehicle. One Thursday afternoon, PBOT caught up to us. We had parked the van in a spot we thought was OK. It turns out that once you are issued the green notice to move your vehicle, PBOT then excludes you from the “zone” where you have been stickered. However, there is no mention of this on those green stickers, and I found it impossible to decipher what zone I was in. The police also showed up and asked how long I needed to remove my contents. I said, “an hour,” to which the officer replied, “I will give you 30 minutes.” “Then why did you ask me if you already knew how much time you were going to give me?” I responded. I was livid. I scrambled to get as much out as I could. Then the cats and I watched our home for those two years get towed away. I cried so very hard that night as we lay under a tarp in the parking lot in the rain. The next day, my husband came up with a tent and set up a camp for us. That was 2017. We have been camping since. Housing is not really a dream for me. I have a travel trailer now. I got it for free, and it is in great condition. I will be living in the camper as soon as I find a place where PBOT will not hassle me. There are times, though, when I mourn the apartment where my daughters grew up. I miss the color of the living room and how warm and inviting it looked from outside the window. I reminisce about celebrating the highs and getting through the lows together. I don’t know what the immediate future holds. My husband and I are trying to work things out, as we separated for the last two years. My mental health was a subtle killer as I allowed it to run my life, succumbing to the negative speak and being negative all the time. This was a huge factor in my husband’s “taking a break.” I have worked on myself to be a better person, and I am. I owe so much to Street Roots for giving me the opportunity to submit my poetry, which they print, as well as attending the Mobile Journalism and Communications program, which will give me the tools to write for Street Roots and other publications. I already pitched my first freelance story outside of Street Roots in late February. The pitch was accepted and published by a digital publication. Writing is my everything, and I give it my everything. I write because I must. It helps to deal with the reality that is my life. I love when my husband, family, and those at Street Roots who believed in me and my words, are proud of my work. I, too, beam with pride. ■ Housing for the People is a column produced by the International Network of Street Papers from people on the frontlines of the housing justice movement in America and beyond. Courtesy of INSP North America / International Network of Street Papers BRONWYN JONES CARVER SAYS HOUSING IS NO LONGER A DREAM FOR HER, THOUGH SHE DOES MISS THE HOME SHE RAISED HER CHILDREN IN. PHOTO BY STREET ROOTS. September 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS REMEMBER, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS AROUND YOU, remember, Self, you have the power to control your life. Only you can allow how people treat you. Get the power of your voice, because if you don’t have that, you will become a victim of abuse. Remember, Self, you allow people to hurt you by not speaking up. Remember to say, “You can’t talk to me like that! Don’t tell me I am useless. Don’t tell me, ‘You can’t do it. You are worthless,’ and things like that.” By not speaking up, you give them permission to continue to talk to you that way. The first time you speak up for yourself will be scary, but you must care about Self, so you can find peace in Self. Remember, Self, to truly love Self. No matter the pain you find yourself in, love of Self will get you through it. Love will get your life in better shape than hate will. Hating Self for this or that keeps you angry and more self-destructive towards Self. Remember, Self, people come and people go. Some are good, some, bad. You have to trust Self to know Self and let Self do what is best for Self. And that comes with loving Self and believing in Self. Self, remember, I love you, and you can love yourself, too. ■ ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN 12 DENVER VOICE September 2022 EVENTS YOGA ON THE LAWN Revive Bodywork and the Levitt Pavilion Denver are partnering to promote mental and physical wellness. Classes are free to attend and encouraged for people of all skill levels and ages. Bring your own yoga mat, towel, or feel free to practice in the grass. WHEN: Sep 3, 10, 17, and 24, 9 a.m. COST: Free WHERE: Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W. Florida Ave. INFO: levittdenver.org COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW: STAND-UP COMEDY We all need more laughter in our lives. What the World Needs Now is a bi-weekly comedy showcase featuring some of the city’s best comedians, as well as its rising stars. This FREE event occurs every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. WHEN: Sep 8 and 22, 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: First Draft Kitchen & Taproom, 1309 26th St. INFO: firstdraftdenver.com ACROSS ORTHODOX FOOD FESTIVAL & OLD GLOBEVILLE DAYS Come sample homemade cuisine from Greece, Russia, Romania, Serbia, Ukraine, and Italy. Afterwards, stick around for live music, dancing, art displays, and tours of the historic Orthodox church. There will also be a full-service bar to wash down all those pirozhki. WHEN: Sep 10, 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Holy Transfiguration of Christ Cathedral, 349 E. 47th Ave. INFO: globevilleorthodoxfoodfestival.org Across 1. Way, way off 5. “Get ___ of yourself!” 10. With skill 14. Grain with jasmine and basmati varieties 15. Person with Hansen’s disease 16. Hip bones 17. Excited punctuation 20. Bubble makers 21. Shoves 22. Synthetic silk 23. Remote abbr. 24. Sweet-sounding 31. Show the way 35. Free from 36. Ancient alphabetic character 37. Cornstarch brand 38. Campaigner, for short 39. ___ Minor 40. “La Vie en Rose” singer 41. Sun helmets made of pith or cork (Var.) 43. Reply to “Shall we?” 44. Act 47. Grazing area 48. “To err is ___...” 52. Bombard 56. Hilton rival 59. Fluffy French dessert 61. Timbuktu’s land 62. Accustom 63. Bottom of the barrel 64. “Brown ___ Girl” 65. Cavalry weapon 66. Talk back DOWN 1. Carpet layer’s calculation 2. ___-upper 3. Capital of Ghana 4. Pass on 5. One who distributes charity 6. Get wind of 7. Chooses, with “for” 8. Hawaiian garland 9. Fall asleep 10. Goals 11. Hardly thrilling 12. Former Italian money 13. Gabs 18. Bit of physics 19. Partner of void 23. Certain string instrument 25. Type of fatty lump 26. Parkinson’s medication 27. Eurasia’s ___ Mountains 28. Yorkshire river DREAMING NEW DREAMS THROUGH POETRY In this weekly workshop, participants will explore how poetry can help guide them through the aging process, dream new dreams, and live joyful lives. They’ll also learn the fundamentals of poetic craft, write new poems, and get feedback on their work. WHEN: Sep 12, 19, and 26, 12 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. COST: Free, registration required WHERE: Online INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming VIVA SOUTHWEST MARIACHI FESTIVAL The Latino Cultural Arts Center and MSU Denver Department of Music are teaming up to bring you an evening of Mariachi at the Levitt Pavilion Denver. This event is free and open to the community. WHEN: Sep 25, 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W. Florida Ave. INFO: levittdenver.org 29. The U in ICU 30. Caribbean and others 31. Arctic native 32. Canal of song 33. Gelatin substitute 34. Remove, as a hat 41. Vine support 42. Person who plots 45. Assortment 46. Coin with 12 stars on it 49. Uses claws to wound 50. Baffled 51. They smell 52. Crowning point 53. Open carriage 54. It’s under a foot 55. Battery contents 56. Ticket remnant 57. “Try this!” 58. Loch ___ monster 60. Santa ___ winds September 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Walker Family Foundation Whole Foods Foundation Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Bright Funds Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Russell Peterson Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Jerry Conover Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Keyrenter Property Management Denver The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Kroger Jana and Jim Cuneo Creating Healthier Communities Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren & Betty Kuehner Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 Michael Dino Fire on the Mountain Blackbaud Giving Fund Christopher Boulanger GivingFirst, Community First Foundation Sheryl Parker Maggie Holben Alistair Davidson Laura Saunders 10X Business Consultants Barbara & Robert Ells Cake Websites & More Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremey Anderson Ridley, McGreevy & Winocur Stephen Saul WalMart 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 14 DENVER VOICE September 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org September 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Ellie Cat’s FLUID FASHION ELLIE CAT DESIGNS FASHION THAT SHOWS THE BEST PARTS OF EVERY PERSON. PAGE 5 POVERTY GAP GROWTH OVER LAST DECADE A LOOK AT DENVER’S POVERTY RATE INCREASE FOR BLACK AND LATINO SENIOR CITIZENS. PAGE 8 DAY SHELTERS AND THE REALITY OF HOMELESSNESS FOR MANY, DAY SHELTERS ARE THE ONLY PLACE THEY CAN GO FOR BASIC SERVICES. PAGE 10 U.S. ABORTION RULING’S IMPACT ON OTHER COUNTRIES EVEN IN COUNTRIES WHERE ABORTION IS LEGAL, THE SCOTUS RULING IS LIKELY TO FUEL HARASSMENT OF ABORTION PROVIDERS AND WOMEN SEEKING TERMINATIONS. PAGE 11 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 AUGUST 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 8 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR SINCE JOINING THE VOICE THREE YEARS AGO, I have received numerous compliments on our street paper’s quality content and layout. The praise for the paper was nothing new. The previous editors and contributors to the VOICE also received high marks for their effort. But when I hear compliments on the work of our current team, I know exactly why people lavish that praise. Hannah Bragg, our graphic designer, has worked with the VOICE since 2011. Because she has a full-time job, Hannah works on the graphics for our various marketing materials, website, and monthly issues on nights and weekends. She has a keen eye for design and does exceptional work, even when we’re up against an aggressive deadline. Giles Clasen, Robert Davis, Cat Evans, and Adrian Michael continue to share stories and photography covering the unique individuals, organizations, events, and policies that significantly affect us. Sometimes, their profiles shine a light on social injustice. Other times, they introduce us to people or ideas that enhance our community. And while each of the writers does an excellent of crafting their articles, it is the team of volunteer copy editors who review the work and point out typos, grammatical errors, or ideas that need fleshing out. Aaron Sullivan and Laura Wing have been steadfast volunteers since 2019, and Kersten Jaeger came on board in early 2020. Ashton Brown started volunteering a little over a year ago, but as of this issue, she has joined the team of writers for the VOICE. Our newest volunteer copy editor, Kendall Schmitz, started volunteering in June. I always appreciate feedback on the content or images and layout of the paper, but it is our graphic designer, volunteer copy editors, and contributors who deserve credit for producing a publication that resonates with Denver VOICE vendors, readers and supporters. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS ASHTON BROWN graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in convergent journalism and a minor in cinema studies. She and her fiance currently live with their two cats in Lakewood. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR John Golden MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lara Keith GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg 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. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kersten Jaeger Kendall Schmitz Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Robert Davis Gigi Galen WRITERS 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. John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Ashton Brown Giles Clasen Robert Davis Raelene Johnson Josh Nemo Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary 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. 2 DENVER VOICE August 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US NATIONAL STORY RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT CAMPS, SWEEPS, AND DISPLACEMENT IN THE U.S. BY INSP STAFF IN RECENT MONTHS, cities and states across the United States have dramatically increased their efforts to sweep and displace homeless encampments and to criminalize people on the streets. In Tennessee, new legislation has made camping on public lands a felony with a possible jail sentence of up to six years in prison. A series of posters as part of the nationwide campaign “Housekeys Not Sweeps,” led by the Western Regional Advocacy Project (WRAP), is raising awareness and combating criminalization efforts and anti-homeless legislation occurring across the country. ARTWORK COURTESY OF THE WESTERN REGIONAL ADVOCACY PROJECT AND THE SAN FRANCISCO POSTER SYNDICATE. “Houseless people often live in communities or ‘encampments’ for their safety and well-being. Belongings and community are necessary for survival but private and public agencies have deemed both these things illegal and are aggressively and violently policing, sweeping, harassing, and attacking our houseless neighbors,” said Paul Boden, WRAP’s executive director. “They are evicted from their encampments, and their life-preserving belongings are repeatedly stolen.” The campaign notes the effects of the sweeps are many, including mass incarceration, harm to people’s mental and physical health, and additional barriers to receiving housing and economic stability due to convictions and arrest warrants, disqualifying individuals from receiving public housing assistance. “Cruel and discriminatory police enforcements cause serious harm and are an incredible waste of resources that would be more effectively spent on solutions to houselessness, such as treatment and housing for poor people,” Boden continued. “Clearly, our government is not choosing real solutions to homelessness, like human rights, livable incomes, healthcare, jobs, and a reinstatement of federal affordable housing funding.” “In international human rights law, providing shelter to people who are homeless is the absolute minimum standard for any country, regardless of resources. There’s a cruelty here that I don’t think I’ve seen,” said Leilani Farha, the former United Nations Special Rapporteur on Housing. Tens of millions of people have experienced homelessness in America during the past 40 years due to the lack of federal investments in social housing and corporate welfare, the privatization of affordable housing, skyrocketing rents, and the lack of living wage jobs. Currently, more than one million people experience homelessness in the United States, including a high rate of children and families. ■ Find out more about the campaign by visiting wraphome.org Courtesy of the International Network of Street Papers HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. August 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

SUMMER WISH LIST With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list, but we can always use coats and jackets. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water Paper products for the office GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets/shorts (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets/shorts (sizes M, L, XL) Backpacks Carrier bags USB-C charging cables ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q If there were one thing in the world that you could change, what would it be? A BRIAN AUGUSTINE Empathy is what is needed most at this time in the world – especially after the shutdown caused by the pandemic. We got used to living by our own rules, and now, we have to remember to get along with everyone in our lives, whether we’re talking about a lifelong friendship or a chance meeting with a stranger. RAELENE JOHNSON If I could change one thing, it would be that there is no more hate in the world! Without hate, there would be nothing but love and peace, which would make the world a better place for everyone! JOSH NEMO The one thing I would change in the world would be the way people treat each other – have them be kind and live with love towards all, like Gandhi or Buddha, or Jesus. JERRY ROSEN The one thing in the world I would like to change is that we have peace and tranquility. Another change I would like is to live in a pollution-free world. 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. 4 DENVER VOICE August 2022 What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN ELLIE CAT’S FASHION DOESN’T CONFORM BY GILES CLASEN BREAKING THREE SEWING MACHINES wasn’t going to stop Ellie Cat from finishing their clothing line in time for their first showcase: Fluid, A Pride Fashion Show. “I guess the fabric I chose was too thick,” Cat said dryly. But Cat doesn’t dwell on what’s broken. Instead, they want to use fashion to build community “The goal is to bring everybody together in all shapes, all sizes, all genders and celebrate it all,” Cat said. Recently, Cat organized and funded the Fluid show at the Marijuana Mansion in Capitol Hill and brought in Melissa Lux, Chi Marie, and Via Moscato — three other designers — to participate. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Continued on page 6 August 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN The sold-out show was more than just models and a runway. It was a multidimensional event that included a DJ, comedy, and dancing performances. But the focus was on the clothes and the people wearing them. “I want to embrace everybody and show the best parts of every person,” Cat said. “Being in the fashion industry, everybody gets catered to, based on the way that they present [their gender identity], and I don’t think that’s fair. I don’t think fashion should have a gender.” Cat said they believe fashion helps build community and identity. “The fashion line I created is called Fluid,” Cat said. “It is for everyone. Girls can wear it; boys can wear it. It doesn’t matter. You can be tall; you can be short. It is for every body type. It is for every person.” According to Cat, too often, traditional fashion is designed around gender stereotypes. Men wear men’s clothes. Women wear women’s clothes. Historically, there have been stigmas attached to crossing those boundaries. “I am nonbinary. My pronouns are they/them,” Cat said. “I present very feminine with a masculine twist. That is what I mean by gender stereotypes. I could walk around in six-inch stilettos, but I can change a tire faster than you would guess I could.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 6 DENVER VOICE August 2022 LOCAL FEATURE Cat feels the gender norms thrust on children like girls should wear pink, and boys should wear blue, or girls play with dolls, and boys with footballs, pushes people into stereotypes. These stereotypes are unfair and restrictive. This is why Cat is trying to build their own fashion line. They want to create something that doesn’t restrict, but rather, welcomes all identities and opens new avenues of personal expression. Over their 18-year career, Cat has been a model for between 15 and 20 shows and has often been pigeonholed into wearing feminine clothing. “I design clothes that aren’t super feminine. They blur the lines between masculine and feminine. Fashion doesn’t have a gender. It is nonconforming,” Cat said. “Men can wear skirts if they want to. [Clothes are] just articles of fabric.” Cat plans to begin selling their designs this fall. They injured their knee and will use the six weeks of downtime to build up their product line. You will be able to find Cat’s clothing on their Instagram account @elliecatstyles, and they hope to open an e-commerce site not long after. Their long-term goal is to save enough money to open a boutique in Denver where they can showcase their Fluid designs. ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN August 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL NEWS CHASING PROGRESS: POVERTY GAP FOR BLACK AND LATINO SENIOR CITIZENS GREW OVER LAST DECADE BY ROBERT DAVIS ALTHOUGH MELVIN PAGE HAD A LONG CAREER IN PUBLIC SERVICE, retiring proved to be much more difficult than he thought. Three years into his retirement, Page suffered a brain aneurysm that left him with crippling medical debt and no chance of keeping his apartment. The then 70-year-old ended up experiencing homelessness in Denver for more than a year beginning in 2019. He told Denver VOICE that he was lucky to escape within a year, but getting back on his feet has been a struggle. Nearly four years later, Page, 73, works part-time as for Enterprise Rent-A-Car a lot attendant at Denver International Airport. But his hourly income is not enough to pay for food, rent, and transportation each month. Page said he‘s grown increasingly reliant on his Social Security income to pay for necessities and is worried that another economic shock could send him back to the streets. “I’m still willing to go to work and I take full responsibility for my future,” Page said. “But I still can’t help wondering if I’ll be able to afford any more help than what I receive now.” CHASING PROGRESS Denver VOICE examined Denver’s poverty rate for Black and Latino seniors as part of Chasing Progress, a Colorado News Collaborative project on social, economic, and health equity among Black and Latino Coloradans. The project analyzed the Census Bureau’s 5-year American Community Survey data from 2010, 2015, and 2020, a period of historically long economic expansion bookended by the Great Recession and the onset of the pandemic. Overall, Denver’s poverty rate for seniors–defined as people aged 65 and over–decreased from 15.4% to 10.5%. But the data also showed continued disparities among Black and Latino seniors when compared to white seniors. The poverty rate for Black seniors dropped from 21.4% to 16.3% over the last decade, while the poverty rate for Latino seniors dropped slightly from 20.9% to 19.9%, according to the Census Bureau’s 2010 and 2020 five-year American Community Survey. For comparison, the poverty rate for MELVIN PAGE, 73, SITS IN THE CAFETERIA OF THE BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING CENTER IN SOUTHEAST DENVER. 8 DENVER VOICE August 2022 LOCAL NEWS white seniors declined from 11.7% in 2010 to 6.7% in 2020 during that same period. Put another way: Black seniors are now more than twice as likely to live in poverty as white seniors. Latino seniors are now nearly three times as likely as white seniors to live in poverty as well. Meanwhile, Denver’s population has gotten older, with people over the age of 65 making up 12.2% of the population in 2020 compared to just 7% a decade ago. Experts point to several reasons for Denver’s declining poverty rates among Black and Latino seniors such as spending more time in the workforce and the plethora of programs that the city has created to help supplement daily expenses for food and medical care. But others are concerned that programs designed to aid seniors may not be able to withstand mounting economic pressures from Denver’s rising cost of living and persistent inflation. Moreover, some point to a rising number of seniors experiencing economic instability as evidence that Denver’s declining senior poverty rate could reverse course in the future. MORE TIME IN THE WORKFORCE Page, who is Black, said his retirement wasn’t his choice initially. He was working as a landscaper when his declining health ushered him out of the labor force. Without that setback, Page said he would have never stopped working. In fact, census data also shows that an increasing number of seniors like Page are working longer. The labor force participation rate for people aged 65 to 74 increased by three points, from 27% to more than 30%, over the last decade. The participation rate for seniors aged 75 and up also grew from 5.8% to more than 8% over the same time. And the labor contributions of older adults in Denver are hard to overlook. According to the latest Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults by the Denver Regional Council of Governments, older adults contributed an estimated $1.6 billion in economic productivity over a 12-month period in 2018. Approximately $875 million of that total came from “unpaid contributions,” such as volunteer hours and informal labor like helping friends and family. But spending more time in the workforce doesn’t necessarily guarantee that a senior will be able to afford to retire. Perla Gheiler, who leads Denver’s Office of Aging, told Denver VOICE that one reason Black and Latino seniors experience higher poverty rates is that they often don’t have enough savings when they retire. “Our seniors are living much longer, which is putting additional strain on their savings and retirement accounts,” Gheiler said. “Even those who were able to put away a sizable nest egg have seen it dwindle recently because of inflation and high housing costs.” Another issue that Gheiler pointed to is the wage gap between male and female seniors who are employed. Research from the nonpartisan Bell Policy Center (BPC), a financial policy think tank, shows that the median income for Denver seniors is roughly $25,000 per year, with male seniors averaging more than $30,000 in income while women average around $20,000. For Page, who earns a gross income of approximately $3,400 per month between employment and Social Security income, saving money every month is challenging at best. On top of taking the bus from the Southmoor Park & Ride in southeast Denver up to the airport for work, he also must budget for medications to treat his high blood pressure and other ailments. Page said he has no stocks or bonds he can fall back on for additional income. He also doesn’t qualify to participate in his employer’s retirement program because of his part-time employment status, making him one of the 63% of Black Coloradans that do not have access to retirement funding outside of Social Security, according to research from the BPC. “There’s a whole array of people who have fallen through the cracks that just don’t have the strength or financial resources to overcome the challenges they’re facing,” Page said. MAKING ENDS MEET Programs like Social Security have also been instrumental in helping many Black and Latino seniors in Denver make ends meet, Gheiler added. But the pandemic tested the efficacy of these programs to reach seniors living on the fringes of poverty. One mechanism that has helped reduce the poverty rate for Denver’s seniors is the automatic cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) that determine the level of Social Security benefits paid to individuals. On Jan. 1, 2022, the federal Social Security Administration announced it was increasing disbursements by 6% the upcoming year, the largest spike in the administration’s history. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities credited the COLA as one reason that more than 201,000 seniors in Colorado were lifted out of poverty because of the program between 2018 and 2020, a time when Colorado’s overall cost of living increased sharply. “Black and Latino workers benefit substantially from Social Security because they have higher disability rates and lower lifetime earnings than white workers, on average,” Kathleen Romig, CBPP’s director of social security and disability policy, wrote in a blog post in April. Gheiler added that Denver has made significant strides to improve its service pipeline for seniors. For example, the city worked closely with the Area Agency on Aging within the Denver Regional Council of Governments to provide seniors with services to those who need assistance applying for benefits like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid. Denver also created several programs to help seniors age in their homes. For example, the city partners with Brothers Redevelopment to provide some seniors with home repairs. The city also has several tax exemptions that seniors can claim, according to the Assessor’s Office. “There’s really been a greater focus on improving coordination between city departments as it relates to how we serve senior citizens in Denver,” Gheiler said. “And our office really tries to ensure we connect seniors who call us with the right services to fit their situation.” Page said he is a testament to how well Denver’s services can work for seniors. He was placed in a room at the Aloft Hotel in MELVIN PAGE, SITTING AT HIS KITCHEN TABLE, OFTEN READS MAGAZINES LIKE TIME IN THE MORNING BEFORE GOING TO WORK. August 2022 DENVER VOICE 9 downtown Denver during the pandemic after he tested positive for COVID-19. While at the hotel, Page was connected to services and other resources that helped him recover. The service providers Page connected with were able to help him find his apartment at the Brookdale Senior Living Center in southeast Denver. They also helped Page apply for his job at the airport and find furniture for his new home, he added. “That’s when I really started to feel stronger,” Page said. “I don’t know where I’d be if I hadn’t ended up there.” RISKS REMAIN Despite the help from Social Security and local programs, Page said that he faces a challenging financial future. Over the last year, food prices have gone up 10.6% in the Denver metro area while household energy costs advanced 11.7%, respectively, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The $2,100 per month that Page pays to rent his apartment is also more than 60% of his monthly earnings. Housing experts consider people who spend more than 30% of their monthly income on housing expenses to be “housing burdened.” Although the senior living facility provides additional services like on-site skilled nursing and memory care, Page hopes to move to a cheaper apartment by November when his lease ends. The move could allow him to save more of his paychecks so he can afford the extra care later, he said. “Not everyone from different economic groups reaches the same level of success as the others,” Page said. “Some people will inevitably fall through the cracks. We need to recognize that and plan accordingly.” Outside of inflation, Chrissy Esposito, a policy analyst at the Colorado Health Institute, told Denver VOICE that the rapidly rising cost of living resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic is one of the biggest threats to the overall financial health of many seniors in Denver. “It’s not surprising that many seniors have been able to escape poverty over the last decade,” Esposito said. “But the challenges that this population continues to face often go unnoticed once their income gets above the poverty threshold.” Esposito points to data showing that the number of seniors experiencing economic instability—meaning they live between zero and 200% of the federal poverty line—as evidence that Denver’s declining senior poverty rate could reverse course in the future. According to the data, the total number of seniors aged 65 and up that fall into this category increased from 28.9% in 2018 to nearly 30% in 2019. These percentages dipped in 2020, which Esposito said is likely a result of pandemicrelated data collection issues. “It’s sad because people face higher risks for having health conditions as they age,” Esposito said. “But they’re also more likely to live in poverty, which can make it difficult to deal with these challenges.” On top of increased health risks, Denver’s rising average rent is another issue plaguing the more than 30% of Denver seniors who rent their homes, according to the 2018 CASOA survey. And interest rates are also twice as high as they were at this time last year, which makes it much more expensive to buy a home in the first place. “Aging is expensive,” Esposito said. “And we as a society seem to be underprepared for it.” ■ Chasing Progress is a Colorado News Collaborative-led multinewsroom reporting project examining the social, economic, and health equity of Black and Latino Coloradans over the last decade. The project builds off 2013’s “Losing Ground,” an I-News/RMPBS series that tracked similar measures from 1960-2010. We welcome stories of your experiences last decade as well as suggestions for future Chasing Progress stories at chasingprogress@colabnews.co.

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: DENVER VOICE DAY SHELTERS AND THE REALITY OF HOMELESSNESS BY ASHTON BROWN THE WHITE TILED FLOOR IS COVERED with bright orange chairs made of hard plastic. There is one huge room filled with people not daring to look around. A few staff members scramble to answer the ringing phone, while others file paperwork for incoming clients and appear to be avoiding eye contact with walk-ins. Hidden in the corner is a small kitchen, where a heavily tattooed man grabs food and then, quickly leaves. A TV murmurs quietly in the background, and there is a noticeable tension in the air. This is everyday life at St. Francis Shelter, and for some people, it’s as good as it gets. St. Francis is one of the day shelters throughout the Denver metro area that is trying to improve the ever-expanding homeless situation. And though the atmosphere feels uncomfortable, the regular clients have positive things to say. “It’s always been a place to gather yourself and find resources,” said James. Marc, also a regular at St. Francis, agreed, acknowledging that the social work programs have helped him live his life to the fullest. The social programs aren’t the only draw of these shelters, though. Michael Short frequents Haven of Hope, another day shelter in the area, and raves about the food, saying, “Breakfast is especially good. One time, I swear, it looked like it could have come straight from Denny’s.” St. Francis Shelter offers services such as daily showers, mail pickup, storage, and clothing pickup. They also offer bus fare to get to medical appointments or job interviews, as well as help with obtaining IDs and Social Security cards. St. Francis also provides a clothing pantry, as well as a laundry service. Additionally, they have a Fresh Tracks program that addresses physical and mental health. as well as providing individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to find a steady job. Strict requirements to qualify for housing drive many people to shelters. One resident, Mike, said trying to correct his eviction was near impossible, and he had few places to turn. He visits often to shower and enjoy a sack lunch. Chris Peters, who has been a regular at Haven of Hope on and off for four years, spent 12 years in prison in the ‘90s for possession of Marijuana, and he is still unable to qualify for housing. He’s taken to selling t-shirts to make money. Fred, an older gentleman who volunteers at Haven of Hope’s kitchen, explained the challenges with housing. According to Fred, the high cost of living in Denver makes it impossible to live on a single income now, and he believes this is why as many as 50 people come to Haven of Hope each day. Several shelters in the area cap their occupancy, usually at 100 people, and yet thousands of people experience homelessness in Denver. According to a report from Metro Denver Homeless Initiatives (MDHI), more than 12,000 individuals experienced unsheltered homelessness last year. That number is up from just over 1,500 in 2020. With these rapidly increasing numbers and only around 20 homeless shelters in the Denver metro area, people will inevitably be left behind. Denver County is addressing this problem with their Three-Year Shelter Expansion Plan, which will attempt to reinvent the shelter system currently in place. The City of Denver hopes its affordable housing fund will be able to create “permanent housing and supportive services” for individuals at risk of homelessness and also anyone with low incomes. They would also like to see the fund create housing opportunities and stability, while also advancing equity. The plan includes a five-year housing strategy that leaves those who are unhoused today without an immediate solution. The stigma of homeless people being “lazy drug addicts that don’t want any changes in their life” is a generalization, and in most cases, is not accurate. Substance abuse may be a contributing factor for some experiencing homelessness, but there are many other reasons people become unhoused, including rising housing costs, low wages, medical expenses, job losses, domestic abuse, and criminal records. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people experiencing homelessness has grown exponentially. In fact, according to the MDHI 2021 PIT count, there was a 40% increase in those staying in emergency shelters across metro Denver and a 99% increase in those identifying as newly homeless. As Rapper Pras Michel pointed out, “Seven out of 10 people are one paycheck away from being homeless.” That means that as more families and individuals become unhoused, the need for shelters and available resources will become even greater. ■ COURTESY OF FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE COURTESY OF ST. FRANCIS CENTER 10 DENVER VOICE August 2022 INTERNATIONAL STORY proximity to the United States and because some of its 32 states had not yet amended their penal codes. She also warned that extreme right-wing political groups had redoubled their efforts to stop the spread of the “Green Wave” reaching countries like Dominican Republic, Honduras, and El Salvador which retain draconian bans. Evangelical churches, which have seen rapid growth in Latin America and wield increasing political clout, were also pushing for total bans on abortion, she said. Brazil’s right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro, who rose to power with strong support from evangelicals, took to Twitter last week to condemn a decision to let an 11-yearold rape victim have an abortion. In Argentina, the U.S. ruling was welcomed by libertarian lawmaker Javier Milei, who is likely to run against the country’s pro-abortion president, Alberto Fernandez, in next year’s election. Evelyne Opondo, senior regional director for Africa at the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR), urged extra vigilance against moves to erode reproductive health rights in countries that have made recent progress. She said it was crucial to strengthen training with the A WOMAN RAISES HER FIRST DURING A PROTEST IN SUPPORT OF ABORTION RIGHTS HELD BY AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL AND FEMINIST COLLECTIVES AFTER THE U.S. SUPREME COURT RULED IN THE DOBBS V WOMEN’S HEALTH ORGANIZATION ABORTION CASE, OVERTURNING THE LANDMARK ROE V WADE ABORTION DECISION, OUTSIDE THE U.S. EMBASSY IN MEXICO CITY, MEXICO JUNE 29, 2022. REUTERS/TOYA SARNO JORDAN HOW WILL U.S. ABORTION RULING IMPACT OTHER COUNTRIES? BY EMMA BATHA AND DIANA BAPTISTA THE U.S. SUPREME COURT’S DECISION to revoke a woman’s right to abortion could threaten efforts to liberalize laws in other countries and fuel calls to roll back progressive legislation, reproductive rights experts say. They warned that the court’s bombshell ruling on 24 June would embolden anti-abortion groups and lawmakers in Africa, Latin America, and beyond. It could also hurt funding for sexual and reproductive health services in developing nations, rights experts said. “When America sneezes, the world catches cold,” said former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark, chairwoman of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), which is backed by the World Health Organization. The Supreme Court’s reversal of the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide is expected to effectively end access to terminations in about half of U.S. states. Here are some ways it could also impact other countries: INCREASE FUNDING TO ANTI-ABORTION GROUPS The U.S. ruling will give anti-abortion groups worldwide “a massive confidence boost” and be used to leverage funding, said Sarah Shaw, head of advocacy at MSI Reproductive Choices, which provides sexual and reproductive healthcare in 37 countries. Shaw said many anti-abortion groups operating in Africa were supported and partially funded by U.S.-based organizations and private U.S. donors. Paula Avila-Guillen, executive director of the Women’s Equality Center, which supports reproductive rights organizations in Latin America, said the ruling had already emboldened anti-abortion groups. “This is worrying because they will try to attack some of the victories we have achieved,” she said. Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico have recently lifted abortion bans in what has been called the “Green Wave” movement. Reproductive rights experts said U.S. and European antiabortion groups were setting up “crisis pregnancy centers” in Latin America and Africa. These centers often suggest that they perform abortions, but in reality try to stop women from having them. Powerful anti-abortion groups include U.S.based Heartbeat International, which supports crisis pregnancy centers in the United States and abroad; CitizenGO, founded in Spain but funded partly through U.S. donations; and 40 Days for Life, which started in Texas and operates in more than 60 countries. Shaw said a quarter of MSI programs - including those in Malawi, Mexico, and Uganda - reported that opposition to abortion was being driven from outside the country. Some MSI programs have also seen a rise in “mystery shoppers” - activists posing as clients who try to trick staff into offering abortion services in places where it is restricted. Even in countries where abortion is legal, the ruling is likely to fuel harassment of abortion providers and women seeking terminations, she said. THREATEN EFFORTS TO REFORM LAWS The U.S. ruling could energize opponents of abortion in other countries, stymieing efforts to ease bans and even leading to the unpicking of new laws. Avila-Guillen said Mexico, which decriminalized abortion last year, was a particular concern due to its police and hospital staff to ensure they were not influenced by anti-abortion rhetoric, understood the law, and did not harass abortion providers. African countries that have recently eased abortion restrictions include Kenya and Benin. In Malawi, PMNCH said the U.S. repeal could stall efforts to pass legislation to allow abortion when a woman’s health was at risk “and women will continue to die as a result”. The ruling could also hurt efforts to expand access in Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, and Senegal, MSI said. A 2015 bill to legalize abortion in Sierra Leone has yet to be signed into law amid pressure from religious groups. Lawmakers in Liberia are debating a similar bill. DECREASE FUNDING FOR SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MSI’s Shaw said countries that receive large amounts of U.S. aid money may deprioritize maternal health care in general for fear of jeopardizing their funding by being seen as pro-choice. “The ruling will have a chilling effect. We expect to see increased lobbying against passing policies supportive of sexual and reproductive health and rights,” Shaw added. “It’s going to really deter governments from talking about these issues, prioritizing these issues, and investing funding from other sources.” U.S. overseas funding for sexual and reproductive health cannot be used for abortion services under what is known as the Helms Amendment to the Foreign Assistance Act. Pro-choice groups fear the Supreme Court ruling will also hurt efforts to repeal the amendment. DESTABILIZE A GLOBAL SHIFT TOWARDS ABORTION ACCESS MSI’s Shaw described the U.S. ruling as a “massive curve ball” at a time when the overall global trend was towards increasing access to abortion. Around 60 countries have expanded rights in the last 30 years. Only a handful have moved in the opposite direction including Poland, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras. “We cannot lose sight of the progress that is happening all around us,” said Opondo. In Latin America, all eyes are now on Chile, which holds a public referendum in September on a new constitution that enshrines a woman’s right to terminate a pregnancy. In Europe, France’s Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has also backed a parliamentary bill to add abortion rights to the country’s constitution. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / International Network of Street Papers August 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS COMPLACENCY BY JOHN ALEXANDER, VOICE VENDOR ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN The dentist sits you in the chair, and then he gives you drugs JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN IN SPITE OF ALL OF THE HARDSHIPS HOMELESS PEOPLE ENDURE DAILY, why do so many become complacent? To understand why, we must understand the how, what, where, and when. In our society, we see homeless people climbing in and out of dumpsters, living and sleeping on the streets or in shelters, and eating whatever, whenever, and wherever they can. We see them panhandling, battling drug addiction, or alcoholism, and on, and on, and more. But, if it is true and safe to believe in what we see, and if we see only what we look at, then society as a whole is looking only at the surface. We must look beneath the surface to see clearly and to see all. For example, alcoholism or drug addiction among those who are homeless is something we see every day. How did these people end up in the situation they are in? The majority of homeless people once lived in homes. Their own homes. They watched Monday Night Football, Thursday, Saturday Night Football, and Sunday Night Football. Yes, there was a time these homeless people slept in their own beds, which looked pretty good in their own bedrooms and in their own homes. These were people who had jobs and paid bills themselves. This is where many homeless people came from, but you won’t find the banker standing very patiently, next to some dumpster, waiting on a bunch of homeless people to come climbing out of the dumpsters so the banker can serve them foreclosure papers on their houses. Today, not only do you see people who are newly homeless; you see very frightened people who are newly homeless, who are standing on the threshold of a new situation — the world of homelessness. Here, they find themselves at nighttime, waiting in line to get something to eat, as well as a nice bed to get some sleep at a neighborhood shelter among strangers, wondering where they will eat and sleep tomorrow. Only, this is not the whole picture. The same people are about to embark on a situation that may take them to another universe, where, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, 38% of them will abuse alcohol, while 26% will abuse other drugs. What are drugs? What is their purpose? Drugs are mindaltering chemicals, and their job and only purpose is to take you away from reality. You may wake up tomorrow with a toothache. The pain is so bad, you can feel it in your ears and the side of your face, and it is terrible. You rush to the dentist seeking relief. Right now, this is your reality. This pain. LANDO ALLEN. CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL GOOD DAY, PEOPLE, My name is Lando, and I work for the VOICE. My journey has been long and hard. It hasn’t been easy for me. I’ve been on the streets for a long time. A friend called me a warrior from the streets. I’m not proud of that title. I’ve seen a lot of people go crazy from the streets and thank God that didn’t happen to me! It’s so easy to get on drugs or drink yourself to death. I chose not to. I’ve tried everything to get my life better. The big mistake I made was to take on a girlfriend that wouldn’t do anything to make our life better. I had a girlfriend that was a VOICE vendor and made money, but she drank too much, and she liked to fight. 12 DENVER VOICE August 2022 to help you relax and ease the pain. The pain has gone nowhere, but these drugs not only change your mood and minimize the pain, they also prepare you for some even greater pain the dentist is about to inflict on you — the drilling in your mouth. As smoke comes out of your mouth, the dentist is still pulling and poking at your teeth, but there you are, sitting in the chair, all relaxed and enjoying your good mood, while the dentist and you are having a conversation. That is the power of drugs. Reality works on people experiencing homelessness the same as it works on people with homes. When you look at homeless people eating, literally sleeping on the streets, and suffering the discomforts of being homeless, you are looking at their reality and pain. Drugs give all of us a mind, mood, and complacency to help cope with our reality — physical, emotional, and mental. ■ WHERE I PARKED MY CAMPER BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR All I want is a normal life. I think the greatest thing I did was to buy a camper to live in. I’m almost done fixing the camper to make it livable. It made me mad when one of my friends told me to sell the camper and go to the shelter. He tried to sell me on that idea, even though he wouldn’t live in the shelter.. There’s nothing wrong with the shelter, if you don’t have anywhere to go, but it’s not cool that you have to deal with a lot of negative attitudes when you stay there. Where I’d parked my camper, there was a group of guys that decided they wanted to live in the same area, and that brought unwanted attention to my camper. So, when people with the city came to talk to me, I told them that I’d been parked there for a year and had not encountered or caused any problems. I also told them I work for a living and asked them not to put me in the same boat as the people camping in the nearby tents. Then, a couple of days later, one of those city workers saw me, as I was vending the VOICE. Even though he saw me doing my job, he still didn’t consider me any different from the group in the tents. Now that he knows where I vend and where I park my camper, I think I’m going to have to find a new spot to live. ■ YOU CAN’T HOLD ME HOSTAGE! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA YOU CAN’T HOLD ME HOSTAGE by playing emotional games and saying things just to hurt me. You can no longer hold my past against me. I’m not that person anymore! You will not make me worry by telling me goodbye and saying you’re going to kill yourself. When you won’t ask for help or get help for yourself, then that is on you. All I can do is turn the situation over to God because I can’t do anything to change you. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. If you don’t get help and do end up killing yourself, I will be sad, but it will not destroy me. So, if you do it, that is your choice. I wish you would get help. Just know, I did love you! Sincerely, Someone Who Cared ■ EVENTS PEACE LOVE & PAWS REOPENS Due to COVID-19, Peace, Love & Paws, a veterinary clinic for pets of the unhoused and indigent communities, was not able to operate for more than two years. The clinic will re-open on Aug 4 and continue operating on the first Thursday of every month, from 9 a.m. until noon. As it is first come, first served, clients are encouraged to arrive at 8 a.m. Masks are required and will be available to ensure safety for all. WHEN: Re-opening is August 4 and will operate the first Thursday of the month. COST: To qualify, bring proof of need that shows current income and government assistance, if any (such as QUEST card, Medicaid card, or proof of low-income housing) WHERE: St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 1280 Vine St. INFO: peacelovepaws.org VEGFEST COLORADO This exciting annual event will feature vegan eats and sweets from numerous vendors and food trucks, vegan products, clothing, and accessories, as well as information and interactive activities from several local animal sanctuaries. A variety of speakers and presenters will also be featured throughout the weekend. WHEN: Aug 6 & Aug 7 COST: Daily passes start at $11; kids under 12 are free WHERE: Improper City, 3201 Walnut St. INFO: vegfestco.com MUSIC & MOVIES: YESTERDAY Come on out to Infinity Park for a free concert and outdoor screening of Yesterday. WHEN: August 12, band at 6:30 p.m, movie at 7:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Infinity Park, 4599 E Tennessee Ave. INFO: infinityparkatglendale.com/events ACROSS Across 1. Dirt 5. Fishhook’s end 9. Play thing 13. Pop singer Amos 14. Mountain nymph 16. Nevada gambling city 17. Twofold 18. Renter’s agreement 19. “What’s gotten ___ you?” 20. Controversial power source WHEAT RIDGE CARNATION FESTIVAL This 53rd annual community festival will feature live music, classic cars, parade, carnival rides, vendors, food, beer and wine, kids’ activities, fireworks, and more. WHEN: Aug 12 – Aug 14 WHERE: Anderson Park, 4355 Field St. COST: Free entry INFO: thecarnationfestival.com ONLINE POETRY THOUGHTSHOP With the theme of “leaning into uncertainty” participants will listen, discuss, and write their own poetry during this guided workshop. WHEN: Aug 17, 6 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. WHERE: Online COST: $12, participants must register online INFO: shyftatmilehigh.org FREE SUMMER LAWN CONCERT Come celebrate summer in the city with a free outdoor concert, featuring Jen Korte and the Loss. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets, and/or purchase refreshments on-site. During the concert, attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the Museum galleries. WHEN: Aug 26, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. INFO: clyffordstillmuseum.org August 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 23. Pasture (Var.) 24. ___ syrup 25. Cause of ruin 29. First US space station 33. “Cool!” 34. Monastery 37. In poor health 38. In a form that a computer can process 42. Biblical verb ending 43. Pass-the-baton race 44. Dark loaves 45. Expression of gratitude 47. Medicine men 50. Himalayan legends 53. Sean ___ Lennon 54. Mind-numbing 60. Approximately 61. Be a bad winner 62. Pink, as a steak 64. Hammer part 65. Magical wish granter 66. Kuwaiti leader 67. Lays down the lawn 68. Be inclined 69. ___ good example DOWN 1. “___ be an honor!” 2. Verb preceder 3. Lady of the Haus 4. Waterproof fabric 5. Anne ___, Henry VIII’s second wife 6. Length x width, for a rectangle 7. Provide new weapons 8. Iraqi port 9. Spendy 10. Monthly budget item 11. “I’m ___ your tricks!” 12. Impoverished 15. Kind of fishing or diving 21. Floral necklace 22. Resin in adhesives and paints 25. Not fulfilled 26. Poet’s “below” 27. Russian country house 28. Scottish Celt 30. Country home to a 2011 revolution 31. ___ wrench 32. Sanctify 35. Lingerie item 36. Ottoman governors 39. Annoyed 40. Savings 41. Wardrobes 46. Hosiery 48. Made an owl sound 49. “___ questions?” 51. Land in the ocean 52. Pebble 54. Absorbs, with “up” 55. Black-and-white cookie 56. Preowned 57. Drops from the sky 58. Appoint 59. Sand 63. Historic period COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation - CMP The NextFifty Initiative John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund $10,000+ Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 CHFA Direct Effect Anschutz Family Foundation Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Jill Haug Bright Funds Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Russell Peterson Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Jerry Conover Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Walker Family Foundation Matthew Rezek Whole Foods Foundation Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Creating Healthier Communities Benevity Community Fund Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren & Betty Kuehner Kroger Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 Michael Dino Fire on the Mountain Blackbaud Giving Fund Christopher Boulanger GivingFirst, Community First Foundation Maggie Holben Alistair Davidson Laura Saunders Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. 10X Business Consultants Barbara & Robert Ells Cake Websites & More Courage and Community Foundation Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremey Anderson Ridley, McGreevy & Winocur Stephen Saul WalMart 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE August 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org August 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE A SENSE OF TOGETHERNESS THROUGH OPERA, BARITONE JEROME SÍBULO STRIVES TO BE A PERSON FOR OTHERS. PAGE 5 CHANGING THE WORLD WITH MUSIC CHALLONA COLEMAN CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY M Hle Hle ANNUAL TOURISM ISSUE TEACHES HER STUDENTS TO BE PROFICIENT BOTH IN READING AND PLAYING MUSIC. PAGE 6 STORIES THROUGH THE CAMERA LENS ADRIAN MICHAEL IS THE STORYTELLER HE ALWAYS DREAMT OF BECOMING. PAGE 8 THE POWER OF VULNERABILITY LEADING BY EXAMPLE, JEN KORTE BELIEVES AN ARTIST’S JOB IS TO EMOTE. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JULY 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 7 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: CREDIT: DENVER VOICE CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR IN KEEPING WITH OUR ANNUAL JULY TOURISM THEME, this year we’re pleased to showcase some of the artists of color in our community whose talent and commitment to their craft and creative expression have gotten so many of us through the challenging past few years. We hope you enjoy learning about Challona Coleman, Jen Korte, Adrian Michael, and Jerome Síbulo. May the creativity and artists presented in this issue serve as a reminder of why art education and support for the arts are worthwhile and necessary investments of our time and money. ■ WELCOME, NEW STAFF MEMBERS! PLEASE JOIN in a warm welcome for John Golden, who has stepped in as our executive director, and Lara Keith, our new program coordinator. They are a great addition to the VOICE, and we’re confident their expertise and contributions will help the VOICE continue to thrive. Our gratitude goes out to Jennifer Seybold, former executive director, for her three years of leadership with the VOICE. We wish her the best in her new venture working with a nonprofit that helps veterans experiencing homelessness. Also, many thanks to Caitlin Henrie, who served as interim program coordinator from April through June. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR John Golden THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. 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 who specializes in editorial, portraiture, documentary and street photography. He’s been creating images for over 15 years and has a passion for capturing the true essence of people. MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lara Keith GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kersten Jaeger Kendall Schmitz Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Gigi Galen Adrian Michael 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 Lando Allen Brian Augustine Giles Clasen Edward Curlee Robert Davis Adrian Michael Benjamin Eric Nelson Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary 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. 2 DENVER VOICE July 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org July 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

SUMMER WISH LIST With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list, but we can always use coats and jackets. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water 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) Backpacks Carrier bags LANDO ALLEN My focus these days is my own art. I’ve been working on my paintings and music for a while. It seems like I’m busy all the time because I’m always trying to finish projects, like fixing my camper, doing artwork, playing music, and hanging out with a friend. But one day, I would love to treat myself to a movie like I used to. (I really do need to take a day off to get things done!) BRIAN AUGUSTINE I like to go to unconventional, popup places, like the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, or the Chalk Art Festival at Larimer Square. They are free, which means I can afford these events. JERRY ROSEN I enjoy seeing beautiful art in the Nature & Science Museum in City Park. There are so many different paintings, nice landscaping, still life, and other different art. ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Where do you go to take in your favorite kind of art? Q A 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. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE July 2022 CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY be tied up in his underwear while singing, which he says was difficult for him to fathom at first. After the show, Síbulo said several audience members thanked him and the other cast members for giving them more than mere entertainment during the performance. “When you hit something deep, that is uncomfortable,” Síbulo said. “It can be uncomfortable to have someone show you what is important to them, rather than simply telling you.” Síbulo says he also wants his art to be a “bridge of connection” for people. Part of this involves performing music that is deeply personal for Síbulo. During the early days of the pandemic in 2020, Soro and The Prince performed live concerts on YouTube for 12 consecutive weeks. They performed covers of songs from Síbulo’s childhood like “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac and “Your Song” by Elton John. By the end of the series, Síbulo says the duo had people reach out and say they looked forward to the performances and that they helped them deal with the loneliness of the pandemic lockdowns. On June 18, Síbulo and the Opera on Tap troupe PHOTO COURTESY OF JEROME SÍBULO USING OPERA TO BE A “PERSON FOR OTHERS” BY ROBERT DAVIS MUSIC HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PART OF JEROME SÍBULO’S LIFE. Growing up in the Philippines, he enjoyed it when his parents played oldies like the Carpenters and The Beatles at breakfast. He also sang as an accompanist while his grandmother played the piano whenever she visited. While it was clear to him early on that he would become a musician, Síbulo, 39, is now using those skills to be, as he says, a “person for others.” Maybe it’s his Jesuit upbringing. Certainly, his friends and mentors are a part of it, too. But regardless of the source of Síbulo’s inspiration, he told Denver VOICE in an interview that his work as a baritone opera singer often spurs him to find ways to create a sense of togetherness for his audience. He also wants to inspire them to connect with people that they would otherwise overlook. “I like shedding light onto different aspects of life and helping my audience love life a little bit more, even the negative parts of it,” Síbulo said. “There’s beauty to be found everywhere and in everyone, you meet.” Síbulo’s journey to becoming a professional opera singer began when his mom enrolled him in singing classes when he was a child. He mostly sang karaoke at the time, he says, in part because of the musical genre’s popularity in the Philippines. He joined three choruses while he studied for an undergraduate degree in psychology at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, a suburb of Manila. There, he also met a teacher, Antonio Hila, who encouraged him and promised to give Síbulo free voice lessons if he agreed to audition for schools in the United States. Síbulo upheld his end of the bargain. He enrolled at Indiana University, one of the top schools for vocal performance in the country, as a 23-year-old freshman in 2006, and he has earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the university as well. But Síbulo says he had two experiences in Indiana that shaped the way he views his work today. First, Síbulo joined Heartland Sings, a nonprofit vocal performance organization in Fort Wayne that he says taught him how to use his art to help underserved communities. He also met his husband, Jacob Wooden, who convinced Síbulo to move to Denver in 2019. This second experience, Síbulo says, helped set him on a path toward using his art to build community wherever the two go. “If there are three things I could do for the rest of my life, it would be to perform, be an arts administrator, and provide opportunities for other artists,” Síbulo said. “But that job didn’t exist when I moved to Denver, so I had to create one for myself.” Now, Síbulo works as the associate director of Arts & Ministry at Trinity United Methodist Church, which hosts free lunches for the homeless community on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 1820 Broadway St. in Denver. He also teaches voice lessons, both in his private studio and at Neighbor Music Stanley near Central Park. At other times, Síbulo performs with troupes like Opera on Tap, which brings opera shows to breweries and bars, and with groups such as Opera Colorado, Central City Opera, and a duet he and Wooden started called Soro and The Prince. But it’s not just the act of performing that Síbulo enjoys. Part of his drive to be a “person for others” also requires him to make his audience a little uncomfortable during his performances. He describes this as a means of helping them grow both individually and collectively. For instance, he recently performed in a production called Unbound, a kink opera composed by Denver artist Nathan Hall. The show is about searching for a sexual fantasy — one that the seeker wants and one that may forever change them. The performance required Síbulo to performed a show at the Enigma Bazaar that was entirely dedicated to exploring gay identities. One of the songs performed by the troupe was “Reflections” from the Disney movie Mulan. This song is meaningful to Síbulo not only because Mulan was one of the first portrayals of Asian American culture in a Disney film, but because the song was originally sung by Filipina artist Lea Salonga. The song’s message to ensure one’s reflection is representative of who they are is also one that resonates with Síbulo because of his struggles with his identity as a gay man. “I identify with this song a lot because it talks about hiding yourself or disappointing your family if you become yourself,” Síbulo said. “The performance was live-streamed, and I’m sure my parents watched. They were probably a little uncomfortable, too.” As a teacher, Síbulo says he also challenges his students to find a deeper connection to their work. Sometimes that involves going beyond the lyrics to find a new interpretation of a song. It also involves mixing opera with other mediums like performance and visual art to bring the art form to new audiences. “Opera is a very communicative art form,” Síbulo said. “And it’s taught me that no person, or art form, is completely bad. There are always things to appreciate or lessons to learn from everyone.” PHOTO COURTESY OF JEROME SÍBULO July 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY CHALLONA COLEMAN BY ADRIAN MICHAEL FROM A VERY YOUNG AGE, Challona Coleman knew that music was in her blood. At the age of 3, she started playing the piano and became fascinated with the robust sounds and beauty that music creates. Coleman believes in the musical terminology ‘Da Capo Al Fine’ – from the beginning to the end. “Music changes the world around us, and once one is introduced to this wonderful realm, there is no such thing as life without it,” Coleman stated. Coleman was born in Alaska and enrolled in music school before kindergarten. At the age of 10, she started playing the cello, working her way up to being first chair in both middle and high school. Being a creative Black musician is inspirational for Coleman, who says she loves when fans send artwork depicting Black girls playing instruments. “It is always fun to know that I’m like the person they think of when they see a cellist.” But Coleman doesn’t think of herself as only a cellist. Coleman is also proficient in the piano, bass, violin, xylophone, piccolo, and ukulele and is looking to add the saxophone to her musical repertoire. “I’ve always had an interest in music and my music teachers always allowed me to explore different instruments.” This eclectic attitude applies to her overall aesthetic as well, which combines hip-hop with a cyberpunk & futuristic flair. “I never preplan anything, I do what I like and that’s kind of been my motto. Yes, I have tattoos, but I want people to see me for me and I want to be myself wherever I go. You know exactly what you’re getting, and it is who I’ve grown to be” said Coleman, who knows that creativity is not all there is to succeed in the industry. Studying music for essentially all her life, Coleman wants up-and-coming musicians to know that music is discipline. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL 6 DENVER VOICE July 2022 CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL “I don’t want anyone discouraged, no one needs that. Find what you’re interested in, make sure you’re aware of all your opportunities, and figure out how you can make that work for you because you can.” Coleman was able to make more opportunities for herself by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business from Regis University and a master’s degree in business administration from Webster University. She now has her own business teaching music lessons. According to Coleman, it is important that when people are looking for private instructors, the instructor does not just teach how to play, but also how to read music. “It is very easy to pick up an instrument and just play, but how many people actually know how to read music?” It is this characteristic that makes Coleman’s approach to teaching unique because she ensures that her students, both adults, and children, learn to read music. Though she currently works in the corporate world, she is focused on her long-term goals. “How many times do you see a Black kid playing a cello?” asked Coleman, who says her ultimate goal is to have her own orchestra, and eventually, teach music full time. You can view Coleman’s musical style on her YouTube page: tinyurl.com/2p835fw2 ■ CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL July 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL ADRIAN MICHAEL: AN EYE FOR STORIES BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN FOR A LITTLE OVER A YEAR, Adrian Michael has been a contributor to the Denver VOICE. Specializing in street photography, Michael likes to tell people’s stories from behind a camera lens. “I am a Black artist, and I want to become a storyteller — whether that is through the medium of photography, literature, or filmmaking — those three are my main focuses,” said Michael. As a high school student, Michael bought a video recorder to explore filmmaking, and that high school hobby sparked what would soon become his outlet for artistic expression. According to Michael, he did not show his films to anyone else; instead, he made them to see how he could use the medium as a way to tell stories. “I wanted to see if I could figure out the process, so I made some cheesy films, where I played all of the characters, including the starring role,” he explained. “I set it up and pieced it together to see if I could make it flow.” As he continued to pursue the art of movie-making, he found out that one of his classmates dabbled in photography. Watching his friend’s process intrigued Michael, and he wanted to learn more. “I saw how he captured what was going on around us — all of the people within the school, the football team in action, CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL 8 DENVER VOICE July 2022 CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY the girls showing off the latest styles… He would develop those photos, frame them and then give them to people. I thought that was an interesting approach to storytelling, which prompted me to get a digital camera and teach myself how to take pictures.” From that point, picture-taking became Michael’s passion. After graduating from high school, Michael attended Metro State University, where he received a B.S. in business. From there, he got a job working in supply chain management, where he focused his efforts on the 9-to-5 world of adulthood. That meant Michael didn’t spend much time pursuing photography, and he sorely missed it. According to Michael, his life became mundane, and he longed for creative expression, so he returned to photography. While he was happy to reunite with his camera, he decided that after being self-taught, it was time to hone his craft and learn about the art of taking photographs. With that, he went back to school and got an associate degree in photography from the Art Institute of Colorado. During his studies at the Art Institute, Michael learned a variety of photography styles. Drawn by the bright lights, brilliant colors, and excitement of fashion photography, Michael thought that was his calling and had visions of becoming the next David LaChapelle. But Michael soon realized that fashion was an especially challenging specialty, so rather than becoming discouraged, he explored other ways to tell people’s stories with photos. It was then he discovered street photography. By taking photos of people acting naturally without feeling the need to pose or force an awkward smile for the camera, Michael brought out the authenticity of the images. Depending on the angle, each photo could convey a different CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL version of the story. So now, when witnessing a candid moment, he finds a way to capture it without being intrusive. Sometimes, it may be humans interacting that inspires him to snap photos, and other times it may be colors, shapes, or patterns that catch his eye — especially if they’re repeating — because they will tell a more compelling story. It has been a little more than 20 years since Michael first discovered photography. Today, he works full-time as a data analyst, but he remains committed to growing as an artist and sharing the world that his camera lens captures. Through his photojournalism work for the Denver VOICE, Michael has introduced VOICE readers to people and organizations that they otherwise may never have heard about. His stories are well-received — espeially when shared via social media, and the articles and images he’s submitted to the VOICE have garnered attention from our sister publications that are part of the International Network of Street Papers. Michael may talk about becoming a storyteller as ADRIAN MICHAEL IN ACTION. CREDIT: EVAN TARGET something that will happen down the road, but from the moment he first picked up a camera, he already was one, and with every click, his photographic artistry and skill as a storyteller just get better.■ CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL July 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

CELEBRATING ARTISTIC DIVERSITY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN JEN KORTE: SUPERPOWER IS HER VULNERABILITY BY GILES CLASEN KNOWING ONESELF ISN’T AN EASY FEAT. This is something Jen Korte has realized more and more as she begins her 41st tour around the sun. “My grandpa died two years ago, and I started diving into his legacy,” Korte said. “I know who he was to me, but to others, he was a community activist, a Chicano activist. [It makes me wonder] what is my legacy? What is my worth outside of music? Who am I as a person?” Korte is known around Denver for two of her music projects: Jen Korte & The Loss, a traditional band, and Lady Gang, a solo project, where she plays multiple instruments and creates loops to perform songs live. “Music is healing for me. Being on stage is the only place I feel truly empowered, and truly embodied and truly in my spirit, but financially…,” Korte said, pausing as she sought to articulate her thoughts. To pay the bills Korte takes on additional projects and side work. Some of those projects are focused on building CREDIT: GILES CLASEN communities within Denver. This includes Hip Chicks Out, a group that organizes events for the LGBTQ community, and Clear Heads: A Booze Free Hang, which is a monthly alcohol-free concert. Her other side work is cleaning Airbnb rentals. Explaining why she takes on these side jobs, Korte said, “I could pay my bills playing music, but I would have to work seven days a week, and that wouldn’t work. There needs to be a space for me to create. If all I do is hustle, what am I rehearsing for?” Korte is straightforward with her social media posts about her unique rock and roll lifestyle. She has shared her excitement, when she was featured in the Denver Museum of Arts and Sciences exhibit, Guitar: The Instrument that Rocked the World, as well as when she won a grant from the Denver Music Advancement Fund to start Clear Heads. She has also featured photos of herself carrying cleaning materials and wearing rubber gloves to clean Airbnb rentals. She has even talked about the pressures she feels as a woman letting her hair go gray. “I’ve accomplished a lot and reached some of my dreams. I played Red Rocks, then woke up the next morning to get to a cleaning job or work at Instacart.” Korte said. Korte also talks openly about her anxiety. She has been outspoken about crying and being frozen in fear, hours before live performances. She says her anxiety is rooted in feeling like she is not enough and not feeling worthy. “I am realizing being vulnerable is a superpower,” Korte said. “I didn’t realize people had such a hard time with it. I 10 DENVER VOICE July 2022 PAGE TITLE think that makes me want to be more open. I think if people were vulnerable with what they are feeling, we would be able to connect a little bit more or be there for each other a little bit more. If we were more vulnerable, we wouldn’t have to sit alone in the darkness that we’re feeling, or the fear that we’re feeling, or the grief that we’re feeling. We could be there for one another.” Korte recalls being an audience member, where she felt seen by the performer. She has been at shows where the performer’s music spoke to her spirit, and she felt free to dance and escape. “I think that as musicians and artists, it is our job to emote,” Korte said. “We emote for people in ways people may not be able to themselves. I hope I bring that myself for audiences.” This experience is symbiotic for Korte because as she emotes and performs, she feels more alive than at any other time in her life. “On stage, I feel freedom. I feel grounded and alive. I am in my element, giving and receiving,” Korte said. Korte’s generosity as an artist is sometimes rewarded. Korte traveled to LA for her 40th birthday in June. In another moment of vulnerability, she shared with fans her dream to rent a sailboat to celebrate the milestone. She admitted she couldn’t afford the cost and asked for donations. Money trickled in through Venmo, slowly at first, but then, the donations swelled until she had raised more than $1,000. She performed live from the rented boat to reward those whose financial support helped her realize her dream. Korte said she isn’t afraid she is getting too old to perform. Instead, she speaks enthusiastically about starting the second half of her life and believes her best work is ahead of her. She just isn’t sure what form that work will take. “I’m torn between wanting to create an opus, or go get my boat captain’s license and work in a different field, where I don’t have to create to live and pay my bills.” Korte has always dreamed of being a boat captain. But she still has some rock and roll dreams as well. No matter her decision, Korte will likely bare her heart on her sleeve an share it with her fans, once again exposing her vulnerability. Korte will be performing at the Denver Underground Music Showcase July 29-31 and the Down in Denver Fest August 20-21. For more about Jen Korte, visit jenkorte.com. ■ Plenty of time To pass on Deliver us from evil we find Take new spirit by the arm Lead her to victory Placed one above Bled from society Bled for love Scarce to believe Unable to see Unable to breathe Under a knee Tempers erupt Unjustly corrupt EDWARD CURLEE rivers and streams There are rivers to the streams, Rivers of hope, loss, loneliness. Rivers entangled in drama, decadence, Inner outer communiques of breathing, ‘cause that’s what life’s for. So we wiggle and wrangle our way to the truths that we perceive And share them with the streams, Connecting over dirt and rocks, Hoping that from the mud Sprouts seeds to a flower or 2.... WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP BENJAMIN T ERIC NELSON ake New Spirit by the Arm 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org CREDIT: GILES CLASEN July 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

EVENTS Tourism Edition Brace yourself! Summer is here and it’s ready to party. Peruse the events below for your summer-of-fun checklist! Courtesy of Deborah Lastowka. LIVE MUSIC FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The Levitt Pavilion is quickly becoming the darling of Denver’s live music scene. Round up your friends and family, bring your blankets and chairs, and kick back for a night of eclectic music performances. WHEN: Various dates through early October WHERE: Levitt Pavilion, 1380 W Florida Ave. CITY PARK JAZZ Jazz in the park is back! Enjoy live music, sunsets, food trucks, adorable dogs, and a sense of community at this beloved city event. WHEN: Sundays through August 7, 6 – 8 p.m. WHERE: City Park Pavilion, 2001 Steele St. PERFORMANCES IN THE PARK Free family-friendly outdoor concerts in Wheat Ridge. WHEN: Wednesdays through August 3, 6:30 – 8 p.m. WHERE: Anderson Park Pavilion, 4355 Field St. B-SIDE MUSIC FRIDAYS Experience intimate musical performances while enjoying craft beverages and sweeping views from one of Denver’s sweetest rooftops. WHEN: Fridays in July & August; doors 6:30 / show 7 p.m. WHERE: MCA Denver, 1485 Delgany St. COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: mcadenver.org RIVERFRONT PARK SUMMER SESSIONS Check out Denver’s newest music series, which also features food, drink, and art. WHEN: July 21 and August 18, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. WHERE: 19th Street Bridge, S. Platte River Dr. COST: Free INFO: riverfrontparkevents.com THE UNDERGROUND MUSIC SHOWCASE (UMS) Discover your new favorite band at this 3-day “mess” of a festival. One of Denver’s best weekends – hands down. WHEN: July 29 – July 31 WHERE: Various venues along Broadway/South Broadway COST: Tickets start at $50 INFO: undergroundmusicshowcase.com LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET, Mile Hi Church, 9077 W. Alameda Ave. Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., through September 24. ARVADA FARMERS MARKET, 5700 Olde Wadsworth Blvd. Sundays, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., through September 25. HIGHLANDS FARMERS MARKET, Lowell Blvd. & W. 32nd Ave. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 16. SOUTH PEARL STREET FARMERS MARKET, South Pearl St. between E. Iowa Ave. & E. Arkansas Ave. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through November 13. COST: Free, donations accepted INFO: cityparkjazz.org VISIT 5280COMEDY.COM FOR AN ONGOING LIST OF FREE/LOW-COST COMEDY SHOWCASES & OPEN MICS. FARMERS MARKETS COST: Free INFO: rootedinfun.com HEAD TO A LOCAL FARMERS MARKET FOR FRESH PRODUCE AND UNIQUE WARES. GOLDEN FARMERS MARKET, 1019 10th St. Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 8. CITY PARK FARMERS MARKET, City Park Esplanade Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 29. CHERRY CREEK FARMERS MARKET, 3000 E 1st Ave. Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through September 28 and Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., through November 5. UNIVERSITY HILLS FARMERS MARKET, 5505 W. 20th Ave. Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 29. COST: Free INFO: levittdenver.org WHEN: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. ART FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK The Santa Fe Arts District comes alive every Friday night, offering a great opportunity to contemplate art and to people watch. COST: Free WHERE: The bulk of the galleries is along Santa Fe Drive, between 5th and 11th Aves. INFO: denversartdistrict.org COMEDY 12 DENVER VOICE July 2022 MISCELLANEOUS MIXED TASTE Mixed Taste is a long-running series where even the most mismatched of topics fi nd unexpected commonalities in an interactive lecture series that can go pretty much anywhere. Virtual options available. WHEN: Wednesdays July 13 – August 17; 6 p.m. doors WHERE: Holiday Theater, 2644 W 32nd Ave. COST: $15 - $20 INFO: mcadenver.org STREET FOOD SOCIAL: SLOAN’S LAKE Street Food Social kicks off each Saturday with Denver’s ultimate brunch party and turns into your favorite happy hour hang. Come for live tunes, delicious bites, and local sips. WHEN: Saturdays through September 24, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: 1611 Raleigh St. INFO: streetfoodsocialco.com IRONTON EVENTS Whether you are interested in yoga, outdoor movies, live music, and/or comedy, Ironton is hosting a number of ongoing events this summer in their beautiful backyard oasis. WHEN: Various dates/times WHERE: Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse, 3636 Chestnut Pl. DPL EVENTS The Denver Public Library is your friend, offering a variety of free/low-cost workshops on writing, meditation, current events, history, film, English and Spanish language classes, U.S. citizenship, and more! ACROSS WHEN: Various dates/times WHERE: Denver Public Library branches DPR ACTIVITIES Denver Parks & Recreation offers a number of free/low-cost activities for the entire family, including tennis lessons, standup paddleboarding, kayaking, group hikes, youth sports, dancing, arts and crafts, and more! Be sure to also check out their summer pool schedule as well. WHEN: Various dates/times COST: Free or low-cost WHERE: Various locations INFO: denvergov.org/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation COST: Most events are free INFO: denverlibrary.org/events 1. Harrison’s “Star Wars” role 4. Refusals 7. Toy gun ammo 10. Th at woman’s 13. “Th is American Life” host Glass 14. Ocean east of the USA 15. Platform for Siri 16. “Love ___ Battlefi eld” 17. Executive Director Kaia’s chess piece? 20. Trail (behind) 21. Showing no emotion 22. Sets (down) 23. Crossword component 24. Upper limit 26. “Th e View” cohost Joy and family 28. North African country 32. Newsworthy 35. Neighbor of Leb. 36. “Cat on a Hot ___ Roof” 38. Sea between Greece and Italy 39. Derisive look 42. Common sight in yoga class 44. Video game princess 45. Lacking 47-Across (or, more literally, low in hemoglobin) 47. Liveliness 49. Inc. relative 50. Comics troublemaker Dennis and his ilk 52. Up to now 55. Burnt crayon color 57. ET’s ship 58. “To ___ a Mockingbird” 60. Removes from the “No Parking” zone 62. Brief incursion 66. Former Notre Dame coach Parseghian 67. Board Member John’s pet rock? 69. Freight weight 70. “___ chance!” 71. Be in debt 72. Mom and pop school org. 73. Finale 74. Take to the skies 75. Freshly painted 76. What we breathe DOWN 1. Snake’s sound 2. “I smell ___!” 3. Type of iPod 4. Daytona 500 org. 5. Like non-Rx medications 6. Smack on the face 7. Once ___, twice shy 8. Russian ballet company 9. NNW’s opposite 10. Reporter Helen’s goat? 11. Jacob’s twin 12. All the ___ (trendy) 18. Casino cubes 19. Temp worker 23. Common sight during a construction boom 25. Cherry center 27. In alphabetical order 28. Region of India known for its 43-Down 29. Dick Cheney’s wife 30. Senior Reporter Emily’s lot? 31. Objective 33. Soup scoop 34. Put into law 37. Forty winks 40. Inbox contents 41. Paddy grain 43. Hot or iced beverage 46. Grand ___ Bakery 48. Downtown campus 51. Hoity-toity 53. Balance out 54. Stocking stuff er? 56. “How adorable!” 58. “Titanic” actress Winslet 59. Wrinkle remover 61. Winter forecast 63. ___ vieja (national dish of Cuba) 64. Against 65. Once around the sun 67. #1 buddy, for short 68. Country between Nor. and Fin. COST: Costs vary INFO: irontondistillery.com PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN July 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation - CMP The NextFifty Initiative John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund $10,000+ Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 CHFA Direct Effect Anschutz Family Foundation Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Jill Haug Bright Funds Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Russell Peterson Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Jerry Conover Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Walker Family Foundation Matthew Rezek Whole Foods Foundation Keyrenter Property Management Denver SEI Giving Fund The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Creating Healthier Communities Benevity Community Fund Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Warren & Betty Kuehner Kroger Matthew Seashore Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Jim Ashe George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 Michael Dino Fire on the Mountain Blackbaud Giving Fund Christopher Boulanger GivingFirst, Community First Foundation Maggie Holben Alistair Davidson Laura Saunders Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. 10X Business Consultants Barbara & Robert Ells Cake Websites & More Courage and Community Foundation Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Jeremey Anderson Ridley, McGreevy & Winocur Stephen Saul WalMart 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE July 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org July 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE All Hail the K.W.E.E.N. .E.E. BY TAKING ACTION, NONTRADITIONAL AKING ACTION NONTRADITIONAL JUSTICE WARRIOR SHOWS THAT IF YOU CAN SEE IT, YOU CAN BE IT. PAGE 6 A PRAIRIE HOME UNWANTED A GAY COUPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS SEEKS SAME LEVEL OF SERVICES AS THEIR HETEROSEXUAL COUNTERPARTS. PAGE 8 DELIVERING CARE AND COMFORT MAMA BIRD ENSURES THAT WOMEN OF COLOR RECEIVE QUALITY CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER PREGNANCY. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JUNE 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 6 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) International Vendor Spotlight: RALF & MARIO FROM YOUR VENDOR: KWEEN WERK POSES WITH TREKKING POLES. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR WHILE IT IS DISHEARTENING that COVID may not be finished with us, the good news is more vendors are returning to the VOICE. That means more vendors can be found at their posts with the latest issue of the Denver VOICE. My hope is the return of our vendors means more of them will be able to participate in our Ask a Vendor section, submit their work for In Your Own Words, or write an article or story they’d like to share with our readers. Speaking of Ask a Vendor, a few weeks ago, longtime vendor Rea Brown was working on an art piece for a project on housing justice for the International Network of Street Papers. He asked, somewhat rhetorically, “What are the two most important things people who are homeless need?” Rather than make a guess, I opened up the question to our vendors. You can see how some responded in Ask a Vendor on Page 5. While their answers may not be surprising, perhaps they’ll reinforce why compassion for and awareness of our fellow humans, matter. Maybe, if enough of us understand the most critical items and services needed by people experiencing homelessness, those individuals who “just don’t understand homelessness” will recognize that most do not choose housing instability. What’s more, those who cannot take care of their basic needs, due to unstable or unsafe living conditions, have even fewer choices. In our In Your Own Words section, you can read Brian Augustine’s story of how he lost the house he’d co-owned with his brother, suffered a debilitating injury, and now lives in a room, which by no means is a home. Augustine recently returned as a volunteer for the VOICE, helping around the VOICE office on days he’s not vending. If you’re curious about a specific vendor or would like to see one of our vendors spotlighted in a future issue, let me know. Their stories deserve to be heard. ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. ADRIAN MICHAEL is a Denver-based photographer who specializes in editorial, portraiture, documentary and street photography. He’s been creating images for over 15 years and has a passion for capturing the true essence of people. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan INTERIM PROGRAM COORDINATOR Caitlin Henrie GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Andrew Fraieli Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Cat Evans Gigi Galen Adrian Michael WRITERS 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. John Alexander Brian Augustine Sue Blosten Giles Clasen Shawn Cunningham Cat Evans Adrian Michael Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary 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. 2 DENVER VOICE June 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US INTERNATIONAL VENDOR SPOTLIGHT BODO VENDORS RALF AND MARIO: “LIFE WITHOUT DOGS? IMPOSSIBLE!” BY SEBASTIAN SELLHORST ANYONE WHO IS A GUEST AT A BODO CONTACT POINT will always meet one or more dogs there. There is hardly a vendor meeting where a handful of four-legged friends are not present. We accompanied some of them on a walk through downtown Bochum. With Ralf and Mario, we walk through the AppoloniaPfaus Park. With them is a troupe of three dogs, who are happy to romp around again after sitting still for an hour at the vendor meeting. “When I got an apartment in Bochum, I didn’t know anyone here and fell into a hole. I wasn’t with bodo at the time. That’s when my family gave me Maja,” Mario says. “She was 14 months old at the time and came to me from Macedonia and was my salvation. I couldn’t imagine my life without her.” It was much the same for him, Ralf tells us, as he keeps trying in vain to untangle the two dog leashes with Tyson and Cassey. “Sometimes there are days when I’m not feeling well and I wonder why I even bother to get up. Then I look at these two and know why I’m doing all this.” MAJA SITS BY A RECENT ISSUE OF BODO. COURTESY OF BODO LEFT - RALF WITH TYSON AND CASSEY, RIGHT - MARIO WITH MAJA. COURTESY OF BODO As we walk down Kortumstrasse, we keep stopping to say hello to other dog-human teams. “You inevitably strike up a conversation with other pet owners,” Ralf explains. “For many people on the street, their dog is the only constant in their lives. They would never part with their animal. That’s why, for many, overnight shelters where you’re not allowed to take animals are out of the question.” After a few meters, we pass the sales place of Petra, who has already set up with Milo and Amy. For her, too, the animals come first. She can plan expenses for food well. It is difficult with veterinary costs. That can quickly become expensive. “But I would rather save on food than on the health of my two,” she says as she slips them a treat. When we arrive at Mario’s selling point, the first thing we do there is spread out Maja’s blanket. “At first she was skeptical when it came to selling. But now, she’s relaxed and knows all the regular customers,” Mario reports as he fills a small bowl with water. Recently, Maja and Mario had another offspring. “Bella, a beagle with extra length,” as Mario describes her with a laugh. Actually, she should only stay with him for a short time for care, but at the moment it looks like she will stay longer. Because there was one thing everyone agreed on today: A life without a dog? Impossible! ■ Courtesy of bodo / International Network of Street Papers HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. 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INTERNATIONAL STORY stems originally from the Latin “radix,” meaning root. So, getting to the roots of the climate debate means asking ourselves where the climate crisis comes from and how we can mitigate it, while also looking for another system that safeguards our livelihoods. We need radical approaches beyond symbolic politics! Because, if we only introduce a small tax on CO2, then nothing will change. The reasons for our crisis lie deeper. Is it because my neighbor drives a car? Or is it because corporations extract oil from the ground and a few rich people profit from it? Talking about this in a reasonable way is indeed a challenge, but it is also our way out of the crisis. How about radicalizing empathy, that is, by focusing on humanity in a broader sense? This question is vital. But I see a problem here too, in making the individual responsible for solving a global crisis. Put simply, many people cannot concern themselves with the environment or other political issues because they must secure their own livelihoods first. Of course, climate justice is a movement for the people, not just for nature – our climate crisis is a social crisis! Another important question that we must tackle is: why are we living in a system that has normalized a way of life that is environmentally harmful? NISHA TOUSSAINT-TEACHOUT HAS BEEN ORGANISING CLIMATE PROTESTS SINCE 2018. SHE CO-FOUNDED FFF IN STUTTGART, SPEAKS TO MEDIA OUTLETS AND ALSO GIVES TALKS. SOLARISYS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM TALKING TO FRIDAYS ABOUT THE CLIMATE CRISIS BY DANIEL KNAUS TROTT-WAR: Greta Thunberg dismissed existing climate policies as “blah blah blah”; that is, as being insufficient. She was criticized for not being constructive. What did you think about this response to her words? NISHA TOUSSAINT-TEACHOUT: Greta’s criticism has not been limited to these three words, neither at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 26) in Glasgow, where she said these words, nor before then. For decades, the aim of the climate movement has been to call out policies that don’t meet their responsibilities. And yet Greta is criticized for her tone? Her words are justified, after all: there have been 26 COPs held so far, and yet emissions continue to rise. Humanity will not become extinct immediately as a result of climate change, but a large number of species will. Rising temperatures will desertify countries, leading to hunger, mass migrations, and conflict. How can we counter this? The answer is in what we shout during our demonstrations: “What do we want? Climate justice! When do we want it? Now!” Because, where does the climate crisis stem from? If we look throughout history, we can see that the roots of the climate crisis lie in how we organize our societies and economies. Infinite growth is not sustainable on a planet with limited resources, and the exploitation of nature is linked to exploitation by humans. At the same time, the climate crisis is not something for the distant future. Catastrophes are already here: they are being felt globally throughout the South, and here too. The first steps to combat the climate crisis are eliminating climate-damaging subsidies and fossil fuels, ending intensive livestock farming, improving disaster prevention, and practical solidarity with countries that are severely affected. First of all, however, something must fundamentally change; we must democratize the economy instead of orienting it towards growth. This goes hand in hand with overcoming our patriarchal and colonial roots. In his book How to Blow Up a Pipeline, human ecologist Andreas Malm proposes using violence against things as a means of taking action – no people should be harmed by such actions. Malm argues that such an approach is warranted as a result of the urgency of halting the ecological damage humans are causing to the planet. FFF speaks out clearly against violence. How would you assess Malm’s approach? If we look back through history, liberation movements have always taken different forms of action. For example, there is the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S., the English women’s rights movement, and also similar movements in India. And within these forms of action, there has always been civil disobedience and sabotage. To change something, we need different approaches – without, of course, endangering people. FFF Activist Carla Reemtsma spoke of a “radicalization of forms of action.” She was criticized for her comments, even though she also opposed violent action. Is it possible that the climate debate is facing communication issues? Definitely. The word “radical” does not mean “extreme.” Instead, and similar to the root of the word for radishes, it Many people are finding that switching to environmentally friendly alternatives is more expensive. How does change work, in social terms? Ecological change must involve social change as well because individualizing this global crisis will not work. A statement along the lines of “If everyone used bamboo toothbrushes, there would not be a climate crisis anymore” is wrong. A small proportion of the richest people and corporations are responsible for a large proportion of global emissions. Climate justice has to involve everyone, including, for instance, workers in car factories, which is why we sometimes work with trade unions. We need to initiate a broad discussion to hear from those that have been affected by the climate crisis in different parts of society and the world. The good news is that a solution to our climate crisis will also tackle many other injustices. ■ Translated from German by Laura Prieto Calvo Courtesy of Trott-war / International Network of Street Papers WITH AN INCREASE OF TWO DEGREES IN GLOBAL TEMPERATURES, 99% OF CORAL REEFS WILL DIE; WITH A 1.5-DEGREE INCREASE (WHICH WILL PROBABLY OCCUR AS EARLY AS 2030), THIS FIGURE WOULD BE 70-90%. AFTER CORAL BLEACHING EVENTS, ONLY THE WHITE LIMESTONE SKELETONS OF THE CORAL REMAIN. 4 DENVER VOICE June 2022 SUMMER WISH LIST Q What are the two most important things people experiencing homelessness need? With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list, but we can always use coats and jackets. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water 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) Ball caps, hats Fold-up umbrellas, backpacks A JOHN ALEXANDER Medical care, mental health care, safe shelter, food, clothing, water, and more are a package deal. No separation. All these things should be held right up there with drinking water, breathing clean air, and eating good food! The other most important things people experiencing homelessness need are acknowledgment, compassion, great consideration, understanding, and love from society as a whole. All of these are needed for our spirit and our emotional and mental needs. BRIAN AUGUSTINE There are so many things the homeless need. I believe a place to get clean – both body and clothes – and safe shelter year-round are the basic needs, but mental health and additional treatment are always in high demand. SHAWN CUNNINGHAM I think mental health care. I have mental health problems, and it’s a daily struggle. The people [experiencing homelessness] that I see who have mental health issues can’t get much help due to insurance problems. There’s only one place that accepts homeless people with mental health issues – Stout Street Clinic. Anywhere else wants top-of-the-line insurance providers. There are only a few shelters in the Denver area, and they are completely packed, and some people have to resort to sleeping outdoors, and then they’re harassed by law enforcement. JERRY ROSEN The most important things people experiencing homelessness need are good healthcare and a safe shelter, where one can feel comfortable in different surroundings. Also, good/healthy food is imperative. 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. ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. June 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE KWEEN WERK (MIDDLE) AND HIKING GROUP HAVING FUN. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL ENVIRONMENTAL K.W.E.E.N. Challenging the conventional conceptions of an environmentalist one narrative at a time. BY ADRIAN MICHAEL THE SUN RISES OVER THE HORIZON of the Flatiron mountains and a group of seven people, all of whom are of different ethnicities, genders, shapes, and levels of hiking experiences, have come together to enjoy the outdoors and camaraderie while tackling the beaten path of the Flatirons Vista Trail. The organizer of the hike, Parker McMullen Bushman, believes whether you’re a person of color, plus-sized, or new to nature, the outdoors is meant for you. McMullen Bushman is known as K.W.E.E.N. WERK, an stands acronym she developed that for Keep Widening Environmental Engagement Narratives. “I was looking for something to encompass who I am as a person,” said McMullen Bushman. “I love wearing makeup, fun blingy accessories, and very colorful clothing. I saw that those styles did not fit in, and I started thinking about all of my different identities as a fat, Black femme, fashion-loving type of person. I looked for a name that embodied all of those things, and that’s how K.W.E.E.N. WERK was formed.” McMullen Bushman describes herself as a nontraditional environmentalist, who has been in environmental, conservation, KWEEN WERK RECORDING VIDEOS FOR SOCIAL MEDIA AND PROVIDING UPDATES ON HER HIKING ADVENTURES FOR ALL HER FOLLOWERS. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL and outdoor spaces, where she didn’t fit the mold. “I like hiking because I have the ability to go at my own pace. It is always nice to walk in nature, and I realized that it is really important to have a conversation about who is and is not represented in these spaces.” McMullen Bushman’s conservation efforts began when she was young, but she didn’t realize it at the time. “I was 9 years old, living in the Bronx, and didn’t even know what conservation and environmentalism were, but I knew I cared very deeply about the environment. My dad and I would recycle aluminum cans, and I would notice all the trash that was being left behind, and I worried about it.” After a suggestion from her parents to write a letter to the New York Times, McMullen Bushman’s deep passion for the environment grew even stronger. “I remember writing my letter saying, ‘Dear people, we are killing our planet,’ and this helped me gain my sense of place.” Unsure if her article was ever published, McMullen Bushman learned that it is important for people who are living in urban environments to have a voice “I had a love for the environment but never had an outlet for it and didn’t know that conservationist was a job.” After graduating from college with a degree in Anthropology, McMullen Bushman began working at an environmental education center, which would be her introduction to finding her 6 DENVER VOICE June 2022 COMMUNITY PROFILE voice. As McMullen Bushman explained, “Being in this space, I was exposed to the conversations, environmentalism, and conservation — I realized a lot of this stuff was what my family had already been doing naturally, but we were doing it out of necessity and didn’t call it environmentalism. And we need to have this conversation about what is environmental engagement.” For example, McMullen Bushman recalls how her grandmother’s garden was used to provide food for her family. and how she reused Tupperware containers to wash clothes. Her uncle, who didn’t have a car, rode his bike to work but never realized he was saving the planet from carbon emissions. These were conversations they were not having because what they were doing was out of necessity. McMullen Bushman considers herself an Environmental Justice Warrior, a term founded by Dr. Robert Bullard, who focuses on environmental impacts and harms. These harms are a form of discrimination because they are denying lower-class communities equal protection under the law. “Environmentalism and conservation has a rap of being only for white, wealthy people who are able to reuse and recycle items. Sadly, urban areas don’t have access to these services, and it is important to change the narrative around them,” McMullen Bushman said. Ecoinclusive is the name of McMullen Bushman’s consulting firm, where she teaches diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility training for conservation organizations. She also created the Inclusive Guide, a tech startup she co-founded, where people can rate outdoor spaces for safety and how welcomed the business makes them feel. The goal is to change the entire system. “I think that the way our system has been developed, it is not a fluke that we have these disparities,” McMullen Bushman said. “Our policies were designed and developed by white, landowning males. When you’re in power, you are going to create something that works for you, and when we don’t have all people represented at the table at the inception, we end up with the disparities that we see now.” Colorado State Representative Leslie Herod recently contributed to passing HB21-1318, the Outdoor Equity Grant Program, which works with grassroots organizations in Colorado to provide funding to organizations that are trying to get traditionally underrepresented people into outdoor spaces. “Leslie is a champion,” said McMullen Bushman. “I also think of people like Tayshia Adams, who is the first Black woman commissioner to Colorado Parks and Wildlife. She’s been working over the last few years to really try and have a voice and to make a change. There are so many amazing, strong Black women here now and throughout history, so I really feel like I am standing on the shoulders of giants.” Social media has been beneficial in leading the charge for environmental freedom. “I realized there needed to be more representation in this field. I never thought of myself as outdoorsy, as the things I was doing were not typically associated with outdoorsy activities. I wasn’t sky diving or mountain climbing, activities that are traditionally represented as white. I realized it is important to see myself, a plus-sized Black woman, in these outdoor spaces.” With more than 17 thousand Instagram followers and 209 thousand TikTok followers, McMullen Bushman has a strong platform to elevate her voice. “People have told me, ‘Wow, I never thought I could do something like that. You’ve inspired me just by seeing someone that I recognize as my same body shape or size. You’ve inspired me to give it a try,’ and I think that is also really important KWEEN. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL because if you can’t see it, it is hard to be it,” McMullen Bushman said. “Most of all, I want to encourage everyone to use their voice around the causes that are important to them. These conversations for diverse representation in outdoor spaces and environmental justice can seem daunting, but if each one of us does what is meaningful to us, it will have the biggest effect. We have to believe in ourselves, that we can do things that are worthy of change.” ■ THE HIKING GROUP NOTICING AND ENJOYING WILDLIFE. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL June 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY A PRAIRIE HOME UNWANTED BY GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN A RIDE ON THE RTD A LINE, from downtown Denver to Denver International Airport, provides a unique picture of Denver. The train starts at the feet of downtown skyscrapers which give way to old and new neighborhoods, industrial parks, and city parks. Just before the train reaches the airport one blue tent stands in swaying prairie grass. The tent houses two men Niko and Chris. The two moved to Denver from Oklahoma and lost their car in a flood near Trinidad, Colorado a year ago. Their car had been their primary form of income driving for DoorDash and Lyft. Losing their car and income forced them into homelessness. “Unfortunately, there has been very, very, very little help for us in Denver,” Niko said. “Being two gay males with dogs, nobody wants to touch us with a 10-foot pole.” Chris said being a gay couple makes it harder to find support services together. “There are services and programs for homeless straight couples,” he said. “But there isn’t the same support for gay couples.” Chris and Niko grew up in Maryland. Niko was raised in the foster care system after both of his parents died. Chris was removed from his father’s home after being a victim of child abuse. They met in Maryland’s Pathfinder program, a public service program for disabled individuals. Niko and Chris built a life together. Disabled after sustaining a Traumatic Brain Injury in a car accident, Niko received Social Security survivor benefits, which offered the two a basic level of stability to build upon. Meanwhile, Chris worked to pay for their apartment in Southern Maryland. “We felt Maryland wasn’t our future. There wasn’t an opportunity for us,” Niko said. “We moved to Chicago, and then Oklahoma, to find a lower cost of living.” When they moved Niko lost his Social Security benefits. The reason has never been fully clear to him – especially given that he was told moving states wouldn’t impact his benefit. Niko walks with a limp, has slow, gentle speech and his eyes veer in different directions causing vision disorders – 8 DENVER VOICE June 2022 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY all injuries caused by the car accident he survived. Niko reapplied for his Social Security benefits in Colorado but was declined. He is in the process of finding a lawyer to help him appeal the decision. “I don’t understand it,” Niko said. “I have a Traumatic Brain Injury. I qualified in the past. When I apply and interview I get confused. When I try to bring Chris to help me they say he can’t be there. I don’t understand and am not sure what more they need from me to verify I am disabled. It is very frustrating.” Despite the injuries, Niko finds day labor jobs, often with Goodwill of Colorado, using the Veryable app. On the days Niko can’t find work by using the app, he panhandles. “I never thought I would be homeless because I work hard, I work every day still,” Niko said. “We figured if I worked, we could afford a place to live – but the housing costs here do not scale with pay even if you’re working full time.” Niko has tried to find higher-paying work too. He worked as a greeter at an Aurora Walmart for a while. The two lived in the Walmart parking lot during this time, hoping to save for an apartment. Ultimately the store manager required they stop living in the lot. Transportation instability made it impossible for Niko to consistently make it to work on time, which caused him to lose his job. According to Niko and Chris, saving money is nearly impossible because it is expensive to be homeless. They can’t prepare food, so they need to buy more expensive prepared food. They can’t use a restroom without buying something from a store. Trying to travel anywhere is expensive, too. Niko and Chris aren’t able to both work because one must stay with their tent and their dogs during the day or risk having their tent and supplies stolen or destroyed. “Colorado’s experience being homeless is unreal,” Chris said. “It’s very terrible and hard. It’s hard to keep a job. It’s hard to get services. It’s hard to stay sober. It’s hard to have hope.” The two men moved near the airport to get away from people and feel safe. Both said they were embarrassed being homeless and only participated in an interview or allowed their photos to be taken so long as their identities were hidden. “It isn’t safe on the streets,” Niko said. “That is why we are all the way by the airport. When we tried to be near day centers or near downtown, we experienced violence, animosity from other homeless people, harassment by police. Confrontations with people who don’t want the homeless around. So, we’re out here.” But being so far from services for those experiencing homelessness has made it more difficult to receive help. “[Any time we try to find resources] we’re told that we live in the wrong zip code,” Chris said. The two also feel like there aren’t enough services available to individuals who are actively working to get off the street. “There is no room in this world for people like us,” Chris said. “It is too hard to reach a caseworker. It feels like no one answers their phone or just wants to put us on a list with no promise of when we will get help. They just put us on a list, then don’t return our calls or requests for help. There is a waiting list for everything and no promise on when you will get to the front of the line, so you just wait without knowing.” The two have hope that they will be able to move from their tent into some form of housing soon. Niko’s grandmother died and left him a small inheritance. They plan to use the money to buy a car and camper, which they’ll live in, and use the car so they have transportation to jobs and can earn a living again. “Without that inheritance, the future would be bleak. I don’t know how long we would have to wait for help. or if we would ever get it,” Chris said. Chris said he finds his tent oddly beautiful in its location but he is excited to move on. ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN June 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL FEATURE MAMA BIRD BY CAT EVANS OVER THE LAST TWO DECADES, the maternity mortality rate in the U.S. has become higher than at any other time since 2000, according to CDC data. The maternal mortality rate is considered a “key indicator of the state of women’s health,” according to the Department of Health and Human Services.” The U.S. ranks poorly compared to other developed nations, ranking 46th among 181 countries” (usafacts.org). A highly relevant topic that is rarely talked about — especially in predominantly white populations — is how Black women experience maternal mortality at a rate that is two to three times higher than white women (CDC.org). There is a major lack of Black representation in medical spaces and little assistance or information provided for Black women to access maternal care needed, specifically, from women who they can directly identify with — other Black women. Birdie, who is the owner of Mama Bird Maternity Wellness Spa, has made it her mission to ”create resources that would support families of color,“ focusing on health and wellness along with self-care routines. According to Birdie, there are various reasons why there is a lack of support for Black women during pregnancy from other Black women. “We don’t know that we are out there. Everyone who has come to me has told me they have been looking,” Birdie explained. “There is only one midwife of color in the Denver and Aurora areas. A lot of women don’t even know what a doula is, or that they can become a midwife, without having to become a doctor,” Birdie said. Of 49 registered Certified Practitioner Midwives (CPM) in Colorado, only three of them are women of color. After graduating from massage therapy school in 2010, Birdie discovered a newfound passion for working with pregnant women. Shortly after, she began her doula certification. Birdie is now a full spectrum birth and postpartum doula. A doula is defined as a woman employed to provide guidance and support to a pregnant woman during and after labor (Oxford Languages). A midwife assists in childbirth. Birdie differentiates a doula as focusing on the waist up (emotional, spiritual, physical), while a midwife focuses on everything from the waist down. The two work together to assist in a smooth, healthy pregnancy. At the Wellness Spa Birdie, does all she can to have women of color educating other women of color, providing the CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS 10 DENVER VOICE June 2022 PAGE TITLE WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP SUE BLOSTEN PLAY CREDIT: CAT EVANS support and care Birdie knows is not offered elsewhere. “In my experience with my three children and four pregnancies, I was never offered support,” Birdie explained. “I never knew it existed. I never knew there was lactation support, or that there were classes for childbirth education. There is a gap between the things women of color are educated on in medical offices.” The biggest concern surrounding the topic of Black women and childbirth is that no one is discussing it. “How would I know what we lacked, if I hadn’t become a doula?” Birdie asked. “In healthcare, the way we go through the healthcare system, it’s our normal. We don’t know what isn’t being provided or proposed.” Being pregnant with and then giving birth to a child is expensive. The lack of discussion surrounding the role of a doula and a midwife has the potential to take away from our for-profit medical system, where women choose to have children with support from inside of their own private spaces. It otherwise remains a mystery. According to Birdie, support for pregnant women of color is not typical, and many, many women representing minorities are left in the dark or reliant on systems not set up for them. Birdie explained that many predominantly white organizations that reach out to her after learning about Mama Bird’s, tend to ask if her team can offer services for free. Her initial reaction has been thoughts like, “Wait! You’re the organization that receives funding but then, you ask me to provide free services?” Such requests only perpetuate the idea that it’s okay to step over underserved communities. As Birdie pointed out, too many Black birth workers provide free services because they feel pressured to take on more work to improve their resumes and build on their professional experience. As a result, they get taken advantage of. Recalling her work with predominantly white birth workers, Birdie said, “They’re not doing anything for free. Not one of them is doing a free birth. There’s no sliding scale. I ask women of color working with me why they are doing anything for free – we are for profit. We have to eat. If we are not good, how can we be good for the people we serve?“ According to Birdie, it’s not uncommon for people to exploit minorities working in healthcare. “We are authentic in our purpose; we deserve to be paid for what we do. This is our life. Corporate America isn’t paying for our livelihood. Black birth workers are way underpaid.” Mama Bird offers classes in childbirth education and yoga, as well as various massage classes and wellness circles — all taught by Black women. Black doula support and midwife support are also available. For more information, visit Birdie’s website, mamabirdinc.com. ■ Hey say play yay Dance, Prance perchance Jump, bump Pump the swing Shout and sing Zing a sling Sling a dart Stop and start Laugh and giggle wiggle a finger Feel the sun and Have some fun Smell a rose and linger longer than usual Twirl and teeter catapult and somersault Start and halt Slice the air Break a stare Don’t prepare Hop and skip Give some lip Slip and slide Push aside Skip a rock across the creek Simon says, “Take a stride” “Mother May I” go outside? Hide and seek Spin the bottle Kiss a cheek Squish some sand Build a castle Dig a moat Float a boat Pound a drum Hear it thrum Tag you’re it Never quit Launch a kite Lick a cone and take a bite Hula hoop Spy and snoop Cross a log Catch a frog Step on a crack Break your mother’s back Talk and tease Make a breeze Ride a wave Feel the air Without care Freeze then fly Flee this place Make a face Blow a bubble No toil no trouble Splash the water Shake a branch Smash a pumpkin Toss a ball Think of something Think it up Stir the muck and make a pie Mud in your eye Twiddle your thumbs Shake your bum Enjoy amuse Take a snooze All work and no play can’t rule the day Shout or say The word “Hurray!” Reach to the sky Touch a star Wherever you are Climb a tree Skin your knee Carve on bark Leave your mark Quick sit in a chair If the music isn’t there Then run round and round To the sound 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org June 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS UNTIL I CAN MAKE MY DREAM HAPPEN BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE, VOICE VENDOR Editor’s Note: This was originally published by the International Network of Street Paper for its “Housing for the People” series. BRIAN AUGUSTINE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN BEFORE I BECAME HOMELESS, I had a mortgage, truck, and dog. I was buying a house in Northglenn, Colorado, a suburb of Denver. Me and my brother went in on the house together to give our mother a stable forever home. This was going to be my forever home too. We had gotten lucky and found a five-bedroom, twobathroom house for $110,000 – just before Colorado’s housing market started to climb. People offered us $120,000 to buy the house from us. This was home to me because when I came home from work, people were waiting for me, and Ruth, my dog, was thrilled to see me each and every time. After nine years, I came home, and my brother had moved out. His explanation didn’t make sense to me. He said he felt threatened for his life. In my family, that meant someone had a weapon and was coming after them. (Yes, I come from a very dysfunctional family.) I found out later, he had taken a $45,000 loan on the equity of the house, without my knowledge, to pay off his credit cards. He could do this because we didn’t sign an agreement saying he couldn’t. (Yes, that’s the law.) I was stuck not only with the mortgage, but also his loan. So, I got a second job and prepared to spend my next ten years paying only bills. A few months later, my world fell apart. It was the middle of May, and I was raking up the last of the leaves that had fallen after the first snow of winter. That’s when my back blew out. I blew a disc out, plus three vertebrae. The doctors told me it was just a matter of time before it ruptured, and I would be wheelchair-bound for life. I walk with a cane because I refuse to listen to doctors. I still use the cane to stand up straight. I now live in a room, where the rent has more than doubled in the ten and a half years I have lived here, and it would have been tripled if not for the pandemic or having a good landlord. This is in no way a home. There is no one to come home to, nothing waiting for my return – just a shelter. Don’t get me wrong, having a shelter is great after living on the streets. I don’t miss the cold winter nights of Colorado. The house I ended up losing to foreclosure recently sold for $450,000 – four times the amount I paid for it 20 years ago. I don’t miss the house, but the home is a loss that still leaves an ache in my heart. Now, I sell the street paper Denver VOICE to pay my rent, and to live in the place I call home, but it isn’t. Home now are the corners I work. That is where people are happy to see me, where I feel welcome and comfortable. The price of housing has gone up so dramatically, that if I wanted to buy a house in Denver and qualify for a loan, I would have to make in a month what I used to make in six months. But there are no places I could afford to live or a town where a home is affordable and livable. I would move to one of these places. But being on a fixed income, I don’t have the money to move or the transportation to even do my shopping. I don’t mind small towns or country living. I don’t need to be where things are happening, or where there are thousands of things to do, most of which I can’t afford to do anyway, My dream is to have a nice house on 40 acres of land where I can grow food. I’d take that food to poorer areas of big places and give healthy food to people who need it most. And I believe I will be presented with the ability to have what doesn’t come easily. I would spend my free time writing the stories that come to me, maybe get a book published. I’ve heard that throughout America, there is more than enough housing, that everyone could have a place to live without building even one new house. But we build big cities, bigger, while small towns are emptier. Until I can make my dream happen, I will keep stepping forward, looking at the short-term future, and getting prepared for more tough times, while at the same time, keeping an optimistic outlook on life. ■ Housing for the People is a column produced by the International Network of Street Papers from people on the frontlines of the housing justice movement in America and beyond. Courtesy of INSP North America / International Network of Street Papers FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE June 2022 EVENTS WHEN: June 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. WHERE: Western Sky Bar & Taproom, 4361 S. Broadway INFO: facebook.com/westernskybarandtaproom CITY PARK JAZZ Jazz in the park is back! Enjoy live music, sunsets, food trucks, adorable dogs, and a sense of community at this beloved city event. WHEN: June 5, 12, 19, and 26, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. WHERE: City Park Pavilion, 2001 Steele St. COST: Free but donations accepted. INFO: cityparkjazz.org REGIRAMA SUMMER MOVIE SERIES: ENCANTO Come on out for a free outdoor screening of Encanto. Guests are encouraged to bring their own blanket, chairs, and picnics. There will also be a couple of food trucks on-site. WHEN: June 10, 6:30 p.m. WHERE: 3333 Regis Blvd. COST: Free entry INFO: facebook.com/regisuniversity ACROSS RIVERFRONT PARK SUMMER SESSIONS Check-out Denver’s newest music series, which also features food, drink, and local makers selling their wares. WHEN: June 16, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. WHERE: 19th Street Bridge, S. Platte River Dr. COST: Free INFO: riverfrontparkevents.com 1. Dirt 5. Fishhook’s end 9. Play thing 13. Pop singer Amos 14. Mountain nymph 16. Nevada gambling city 17. Twofold 18. Renter’s agreement 19. “What’s gotten ___ you?” 20. Controversial power source 23. Pasture (Var.) 24. ___ syrup 25. Cause of ruin 29. First US space station 33. “Cool!” 34. Monastery 37. In poor health 38. In a form that a computer can process 42. Biblical verb ending 43. Pass-the-baton race 44. Dark loaves 45. Expression of gratitude 47. Medicine men 50. Himalayan legends 53. Sean ___ Lennon 54. Mind-numbing 60. Approximately 61. Be a bad winner 62. Pink, as a steak 64. Hammer part 65. Magical wish granter 66. Kuwaiti leader 67. Lays down the lawn 68. Be inclined 69. ___ good example DOWN 1. “___ be an honor!” 2. Verb preceder 3. Lady of the Haus 4. Waterproof fabric 5. Anne ___, Henry VIII’s second wife 6. Length x width, for a rectangle 7. Provide new weapons 8. Iraqi port 9. Spendy 10. Monthly budget item 11. “I’m ___ your tricks!” 12. Impoverished 15. Kind of fi shing or diving 21. Floral necklace 22. Resin in adhesives and paints 25. Not fulfi lled 26. Poet’s “below” 27. Russian country house 28. Scottish Celt 30. Country home to a 2011 revolution 31. ___ wrench 32. Sanctify 35. Lingerie item 36. Ottoman governors 39. Annoyed 40. Savings 41. Wardrobes 46. Hosiery 48. Made an owl sound 49. “___ questions?” 51. Land in the ocean 52. Pebble 54. Absorbs, with “up” 55. Black-and-white cookie 56. Preowned 57. Drops from the sky 58. Appoint 59. Sand 63. Historic period COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES SOUTH SOUTH BROADWAY COMEDY SHOW Come see some of Denver’s best comedians perform at this friendly, neighborhood bar. COST: $5 COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 DENVER PRIDEFEST Denver PrideFest 2022 is live, inperson, and making up for lost time! Attendees can enjoy a Pride Parade, Dyke March, Pride Rally, a 5K, live entertainment, local vendors, and a number of other pride-related activities! WHEN: Jun 25 and Jun 26, times vary COST: Free to attend; donations accepted WHERE: Civic Center Park, 101 W 14th Ave. INFO: denverpride.org ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN June 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation - CMP The NextFifty Initiative John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund $10,000+ Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 CHFA Direct Effect Anschut Family Foundation Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 Russell Peterson Bright Funds Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Jerry Conover Jill Haug Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Paul Manoogian Creating Healthier Communities Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Keyrenter Property Management Denver Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund SEI Giving Fund Walker Family Foundation Benevity Communtiy Fund Whole Foods Foundation Kroger The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Matthew Rezek Network for Good Lori Holland Megan Arellano and Paul Karolyi Matthew Seashore Michael Dino Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Gaspar Terrana Courage and Community Foundation Jim Ashe George Lichter Family Foundation $500-$999 Christopher Boulanger Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Warren & Betty Kuehner Fire on the Mountain Alistair Davidson Laura Wing Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson GivingFirst, Community First Foundation Maggie Holben Giles Clasen Laura Saunders WalMart Ridley, McGreevy & Winocur Cake Websites & More 10X Business Consultants Barbara & Robert Ells Stephen Saul Jennifer Stedron James Stegman 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE June 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org June 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE THRIFTY A RES U C CUE E ANIMAL CHAMPION DEMI MERRITT CREATED THE PERFECT SPACE FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO RESCUE ANIMALS AND DO A BIT OF THRIFTING. PAGE 8 JEFF TWEEDY FOUNDER AND FRONTMAN FOR WILCO DISCUSSES HIS CREATIVE PROCESS AND THOUGHTS ABOUT SOCIAL JUSTICE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY. PAGE 6 DESIGNING SOS HOUSING DRAWING UPON HISTORY, ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS UNVEIL IDEAS FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING UNITS. PAGE 7 KENYA’S TICKING BOMB DESPITE ONGOING INSTABILITY IN THE HORN OF AFRICA NATION, MANY UNEMPLOYED YOUTHS ARE BEING LURED INTO TRAFFIC DENS. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MAY 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 5 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: CREDIT: CAT EVANS

EDITOR’S NOTE WELCOME TO MAY. It seems to have taken a while for the chilly winds of April to calm down, so here’s hoping we will enjoy a month full of just the right amount of sunshine, plenty of moisture, and an abundance of good health. As you read this issue, you will ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR see we’ve included a note on How to Recognize a Vendor (see page 4). Unfortunately, we have discovered an ongoing problem of a few individuals fraudulently posing as Denver VOICE vendors. Keep in mind that Denver VOICE vendors do not have signs or donation boxes promoting the VOICE. Also, if your vendor uses a square reader, it will be their personal account and will NOT have Denver VOICE or any similar name. If you aren’t sure whether a vendor is “legitimate,” look at their vendor badge, which will include their photo, the current year, and their badge number. If they do not have a badge, or if the badge doesn’t say 2022, they are not a Denver VOICE vendor. On a happier note, for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, we sold out of Denver VOICE issues in the middle of the month. It happened in March, which typically isn’t a month our vendors see high donation numbers, so our successful March was due partly to new vendors who’ve joined the VOICE over the past few months. As more folks are going to their workplaces, dining out at restaurants, or enjoying art exhibits, films, and live performances, our longtime vendors are earning more, thanks to our supporters and their generosity. While the pandemic is not yet finished with us, VOICE vendors are reconnecting with their customers and communities, and the resulting smiles on their faces are a welcome sight! ■ THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold 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. MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan INTERIM PROGRAM COORDINATOR Caitlin Henrie GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Andrew Fraieli Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Cat Evans Robert Davis Gigi Galen WRITERS 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. John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Giles Clasen Robert Davis Cat Evans Raelene Johnson Jacob Marsh Marta Shoman Rodney Woolfolk BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary 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. 2 DENVER VOICE May 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US INTERNATIONAL STORY DEBT COUNSELING EXPERT: “TALK ABOUT MONEY” BY SIMONE DECKNER Catrin Sternberg is head of debt counseling at Diakonisches Werk Hamburg. She would like to see more openness when it comes to money worries. HINZ & KUNZT: How difficult is it for people to go to debt counseling? CATRIN STERNBERG: The subject is afflicted with shame. People who call here are initially reluctant. We then say, “It’s good that you’re coming forward!” After the first few conversations, the shame usually subsides and gives way to a great sense of relief. After all, this is often preceded by a long history of suffering. Who comes to you? Many of our clients are poverty-stricken. Since the pandemic, however, we have also received an increasing number of inquiries from people who are on short-time work or self-employed. What are the main reasons for debt? Wh nemployment, illness, and separation. Peter Zwegat used to help people get out of debt on TV. The impression: Many people can’t handle money! Pe im There are people who live beyond their means, but that’s about 8%. According to a new study, for 45%, the main reason for ver-indebtedness is an unforeseen event, such as an illness or he loss of a job. 8% What are the first steps in counseling? We look at: Exactly how much debt do you have? All the documents are put on the table. Then we examine together what the prospects are - on a completely individual basis. There is no one solution for everyone. In the past there was the budget book, today you can track your expenses with apps - does that make sense? Both are very time-consuming. But you often get an “aha” moment when you see how much you have left: I hardly have any wiggle room at the end of the month. People often make installment agreements that they can’t afford. According to the motto: It will work out somehow. It is important to always pay rent, electricity, and water. If the checking account is seized, it should be converted into a garnishment protection account, so that an allowance of 1260 euros ($1362.30 U.S.) is secured against seizure. How can I avoid debts? It is widely said that “one shouldn’t talk about money”. I think one should definitely talk about money. So that you know how the high income and expenses are. Textbook advice is to have three net monthly salaries in reserve. But my clients often say, “I don’t know how I’m going to manage from the middle of the month!” So, this is more of an ideal. Anyone who is insolvent can file for personal insolvency. More and more people are doing this in Hamburg. Is that good or bad? Private or consumer insolvency is a last resort, but also a good one. Since the reform of insolvency law in 2020, the procedure only takes three years instead of six. The clients have their backs free after successful completion. ■ Translated from German by Lisa Luginbuhl Courtesy of Hinz&Kunzt / International Network of Street Papers CATRIN STERNBERG KNOWS THAT THOSE WHO COME TO HER OFTEN HAVE A LONG A LONG HISTORY OF SUFFERING BEHIND THEM. CREDIT: ANDREAS HORNOFF HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. May 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

PROGRAM UPDATE HOW TO RECOGNIZE A VENDOR BY JENNIFER SEYBOLD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BEFORE YOU GIVE MONEY TO A VENDOR via cash, Venmo, or credit card, verify the person is a current and authorized Denver VOICE vendor. (If they take a credit card, the account will have their personal name and will not have Denver VOICE or anything with VOICE in the name.) HERE’S WHAT TO LOOK FOR: • Denver VOICE vendors wear a badge while they’re working. (Below is a mockup of the VOICE badge. We have added a circle around the date on the badge mockup.) If the vendor’s badge date is not dated 2022, or if the badge looks like it has been altered, do not purchase the VOICE from that vendor and please call the Denver VOICE office: (720) 320-2155 • Vendors will never ask for tax-deductible donations on behalf of the Denver VOICE – your donation on the street is for that vendor to keep. • Vendors will never have tables or booths set-up. If they have a sign, telling you the money goes to the Denver VOICE, they either are in violation of their vendor agreement or they are not a current vendor. • Vendors do not sell any product other than the monthly publication, and they do not take donations for anything other than those you give in exchange for your copy of the VOICE. • While vendors are permitted to give away old VOICE issues free of charge, they should only be vending the current issue of the paper in exchange for a donation. • Each VOICE issue should have the vendor’s name and badge number on the upper left side of the issue. (Check that the vendor’s name and badge number matches that of the vendor you’re getting your paper from.) • Payments should be made in cash or directly through the Venmo app by assigning your gift to your vendor using their name and/or badge number in the notes. The Denver VOICE and our vendors take great pride in the work we do, and we appreciate community supporters like you! If you see someone saying they’re a Denver VOICE vendor, but they do not have a current badge or is they are doing any of the things listed here, please do NOT purchase a paper from them. Please do take note of the name on the badge and call the Denver VOICE with the name of that individual and the location where you saw them: (720) 320-2155. ■ GRAPHIC BY JENNIFER SEYBOLD 4 DENVER VOICE May 2022 SPRING WISH LIST With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list, but we can always use coats and jackets. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries 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) Ball caps, hats Fold-up umbrellas, backpacks LANDO ALLEN The Denver VOICE shows people how to start a business. It helps people who have lost everything, ID, job, and hope. It also shows you how to budget your money because you’ll have to buy more papers. I know it took me a while to learn to put money away. A lot of people who were working for the VOICE told me to do this. The Denver VOICE will do a lot of good for people who do the right thing. [Vending the VOICE] keeps people out of trouble. BRIAN K. AUGUSTINE I love feeling a part of the neighborhood. When I first became homeless, I felt separated from the normal society. While vending the Denver VOICE, I became included with every one. RAELENE JOHNSON This is a job that I excel at. I went from being homeless to owning a home, and if I didn’t have the Denver VOICE, I wouldn’t have a job! Some people can’t get a job because of their past. I thought I was going to die homeless and on drugs. Now I’m clean and sober. That is the reason why I do the VOICE. JACOB MARSH Being able to spend time with my family while I vend is one of the main reasons why I enjoy being a vendor. I enjoy being able to meet new people every day and make new, repeat customers for myself and the Denver VOICE as well. 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. RODNEY WOOLFOLK Talking with people about the VOICE and the smiles I can generate from customers. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. May 2022 DENVER VOICE 5 ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. Q What do you like most about being a Denver VOICE vendor? A JOHN ALEXANDER There are many things I like about being a Denver VOICE vendor, but none of them compare to what I love about being a VOICE vendor. I have been with the VOICE for 15 years. From the first moment of that first day, there were changes. I became financially independent by becoming self-employed and operating, building, and developing my own business. I found respect for others and self-respect. I’ve developed a relationship with myself – one that I love, and I have discovered I have endless opportunities. I can walk out among people and share these blessings with others. I have learned things about myself, like I am a good person to work with as well as work for. I am the employee of the month, every month of the year, and have been for 15 years, straight!

NATIONAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN JEFF TWEEDY: ONE SONG AT A TIME BY GILES CLASEN JEFF TWEEDY, founder and frontman of the band Wilco, finds the act of creating — whether it is a song, a book, or any other art form — to be about intentionally interacting with your imagination and have benefits that go far beyond the final product. Tweedy spoke about his career, creative process, and thoughts about justice in the music business at the Paramount Theater Denver on April 9 in “A Conversation with Jeff Tweedy.” The talk was in support of his recently published book, “How to Write One Song: Loving the Things We Create and How They Love Us Back.” Excerpts from his conversation with comedian John Hodgman have been edited for clarity and length. ON “HOW TO WRITE ONE SONG” JT: I came up with the title trying to give a little direction on creativity. I thought, “Where am I going to start if I want to write a book about creativity?” I tried to boil it down to what I start with when I create. I have realized over time I can’t create songs, or create an album, without first creating one song. That subtle distinction helps simplify things for me because it automatically takes up the ego-side of my brain, which is a little more ambitious and wants lots of songs. That side of me wants to write lots of songs and wants to be somebody and puts it squarely in the world of one task. I just want to make one song that wasn’t there when I woke up this morning. To me, a song is something really simple. The simplest definition of a song is to intentionally create a moment and then be able to recreate it again. CREATING IS AN EXALTED THING Whatever you think of God, I guess the center of the concept of God is creation. I was in a mental hospital. I was in group therapy and art therapy class. The counselor was a very kind and sweet woman who was kind of drawing people out of catatonia. People who had struggled with heroin abuse and other things. People who were real human wreckage struggling to even feel human again. I was probably one of them. The counselor described it as something that “puts you closer to God.” At first, I was like, “That is a lot of weight to put on it.” But it was the opposite. There would be a real, and beautiful, transformation in people. I was good at art. That was my conflict-free zone. I had a lot of trouble in other types of therapeutic environments. The art therapy, I was going to ace that. I was going to get an A-plus there. BEING CREATIVE CHANGES YOU One of the other reasons being creative is so uncomfortable for people is that you can’t spend time in your imagination without learning about yourself, and there are things you don’t necessarily want to know about yourself. Everybody has junk thoughts and things they don’t want to think about — to be free to create and spend time in your imagination, you confront these things all the time. That, I get that. I get not wanting to spend that much time there. WRITE WHAT YOU EMPATHIZE WITH JH: In your book, you point out that Woody Guthrie is the one who said, “Write what you know.” Why is he wrong? JT: Far be it from me to say that anything Woody Guthrie did was wrong. I think he said the right thing, but it has been taken and misinterpreted by a lot of people. People have taken it to mean that if you don’t have an experience, you can’t write about it. I know enough about Woody Guthrie to know he wrote about a lot of things that he didn’t experience, but he did it well because he had empathy, and because he had an imagination. 6 DENVER VOICE May 2022 I think a lot of songwriters have taken that advice and intentionally lived harder lives than they needed to live in order to have something to write about. I want to tell you that is unnecessary. You should take care of yourself and live to write another day. JUSTICE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY I don’t understand why it is hard for people to wrap their heads around the idea that when you have more people comfortable, happy, taken care of, and feeling like they can live safely, that you have a better world for everybody and a better community. I don’t understand why that’s a weird thing to suggest. There is a racial component in the music business that is undeniable to me in terms of which particular artists were taken the most advantage of, and how much that genius has transformed our culture without being acknowledged as the major contribution in all of our lives. I’m not saying it’s not acknowledged at all; I just don’t think people understand how deeply it touches every type of musical entertainment that you have in your life — from country to, obviously, soul music. But rock n’ roll — Black genius — that’s where it comes from. I think as a band, Wilco always looked at itself as part of the community in every city we play. We donate a portion of our poster sales to a local charity because for that day we are a citizen of that community. We’re using their streets, we’re using whatever resources in every city, so I think it just makes sense that you want to be a good citizen wherever you are. ■ If you liked this story, check out these events at the Paramount Theater: Neil Gaiman, 7:30 p.m. May 9 Annie Leibovitz, 7 p.m. June 15 ticketnetwork.com/venues/paramount-theatre-denver-tickets LOCAL FEATURE DESIGNING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SOS CAMPSITE HOUSING BY ROBERT DAVIS CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS ON MARCH 30, architecture students at CU Denver unveiled their design for the next generation of temporary housing units for Denver’s Safe Outdoor Spaces (SOS). Known as a Conestoga Hut, the structure is a micro-shelter that has approximately 60 sq. ft. of interior space for people experiencing homelessness. It looks very similar to a Conestoga Wagon, the precursor to the Prairie Schooner covered wagon that the settlers used when they moved westward. Each structure has lockable doors and windows, as well as insulated floors, walls, and roofs. The hard-shelled structure also has a modular design, which makes for easy assembly, disassembly, and refurbishment. This design also makes Conestoga Huts an affordable shelter option, with a total build cost of approximately $2,500 compared to $10,000 or more for tiny homes. The new design also comes as Denver continues to expand its SOS options. The City approved a contract extension with the nonprofit Colorado Village Collaborative (CVC) for $3.9 million back in February to operate the City’s four SOS campsites until the end of the year. “This is by no means the end of the project,” said Richard McSwain, director of Freedom By Design, a nonprofit architecture firm that helped fund and construct the prototypes. “It’s more like the middle of the road.” The project started in December 2020, when McSwain approached CVC about building better shelters for the SOS sites. Some of the issues that the project seeks to solve are water leaking into the SOS tents, reducing smoke in the surrounding neighborhoods, and building hand-washing stations that don’t freeze in the winter. The team drew inspiration from an operational Conestoga Hut village in Portland that is operated by a group called Community Supported Shelters out of Eugene, ORE. Members of the Freedom By Design team said the legal precedent set by the sites in Oregon gives them hope that Denver will adopt the model. To reduce waste and improve efficiency, the team decided to “flat-pack” their design. This means that all the pieces necessary to build the structures are outlined on plywood using a CNC routing machine and then packaged in a flat assembly box, thereby making it easier to transport. Each structure uses approximately 14 sheets of plywood and an insulated canvas, but McSwain said that the total amount of supplies can be reduced during mass production. The project will also be open-sourced, McSwain said. This means that all of the files required to cut out the structure are available to CVC, and the organization can take them to any supplier or manufacturer to get the best price possible. The opensourced nature of the project also allows future architecture students to continue working on it for years to come. “We want the people to take ownership of this project and carry it forward,” said Andrea Orejas, a graduate architecture student and one of the project’s team leaders. As for the next steps, Freedom By Design is currently working through feedback it received during an open house event on March 30. Members of the public were invited to check out the design and leave comments or suggestions for improvement. Some expressed concerns about the structure’s ability to withstand Colorado’s high winds and the ambient temperature inside the structure itself. CVC also needs to approve the final design before it is introduced at any SOS site. Maslin Mellick, a graduate architecture student and additional team leader, described it as a “labor of love” that will help serve the broader Denver community. “I can’t wait to see where it goes from here,” she said. ■ May 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: CAT EVANS A THRIFTY RESCUE BY CAT EVANS DEMI’S ANIMAL RESCUE (DAR) IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE ANIMAL SHELTER – it doubles as a thrift store as well. Tucked off Evans Avenue in Denver, the no-kill rescue focuses on solving pet homelessness through adoption, spaying and neutering, and increasing pet retention. The nonprofit has been operating for 11 years and is open to taking all cats and dogs, regardless of breed or special care required. The thrifting component was a mid-COVID addition that was initiated to help drive traffic through the rescue. Walking inside, the thrifty nature of the establishment is immediately apparent with recycled, donated clothes stacked high and low, and one room leading to another. There are two cat rooms with glass sliding doors, also known as the cat lodge, which is reserved for high-risk cats – cats that are harder to get homes for. Interested adopters can engage with the cats upon request and observe them as they go by. DAR’s goal is to find long-lasting homes for the pets while providing resources and outreach while promoting awareness on behalf of pets in need. Behind the scenes, you’ll come across a young woman named Demi Merritt. Merritt founded the rescue in high school, after working and volunteering with various animal and human rights organizations. She found herself to be an activist fighting to end breed-specific legislation and, eventually, developed DAR in her parents’ basement. She officially made it a nonprofit when she was just 14 years old. For the first three years, Merritt fostered cats in her own home, and as DAR grew, she began establishing a network with reliable fosters. She now has five board members who have remained the same for the past eight years. Everyone who works at the rescue also has a full-time job, so Merritt is working to expand DAR’s volunteer base. CREDIT: CAT EVANS 8 DENVER VOICE May 2022 COMMUNITY PROFILE Why DAR transformed into a thrift store as well had a lot to do with generating external income for the cause. “We take a ton of hard cases, we have a cat right now getting ready to get two knee replacements,” Merritt explained. People who are aware of DAR drop clothing goods off without being asked. The clothes are provided without the need for much outreach. The organization started collecting donations ahead of time, before their official opening of the thrift store component. According to Merritt, “It just shows up. I don’t know how these people find us. It’s nice stuff. We throw away stuff way less than I thought we would.” She runs the foster program, working with fosters regularly, scheduling vet appointments, trainer appointments, and so on. The intention is to prepare animals for adoption which can be a difficult process as many are not ready to be placed in a home or adopted. “Once we get more systems in place it will be easier to grow within the space itself, be more efficient.” There are many developments with the organization moving into the building mid-COVID. “Everything is a work in progress, trying to navigate new aspects, it’s been a learning process. It’s been fun. I’m exhausted but it’s been fun,” Merritt explained. Although her name is in the title, Merritt is quick to give credit where credit is due. “I am Demi, but it’s all of ours,” she said. “We have a huge team. The board of five does the major decisions. They’ve been working on it the same amount as me for eight years. We also have 10 to 15 volunteers that go so far as to work from home on all the little details.” Getting everything in order is no easy stretch, and there are always new challenges presented that the team is constantly working to improve. There are different people on the staff tasked with different responsibilities. Anybody can be trained on the basic services – DAR offers microchipping and deworming methods in-house. For more complicated medical needs, DAR has specific vets that they partner with, even one right next door. “If it’s basic, we can get on top of it right away, but unfortunately, a lot of them do come in sick,” explained Merritt, and contrary to what one would expect, kittens often come in the sickest. Prior to taking care of the animal, fosters are now required to go through training as many of the animals come in ill, and the care required is often underestimated. Bad health associated with any animal is always a challenge; however, that doesn’t hinder DAR’s desire to help, in fact, it is further incentive for them to step in. “When we go through kill lists or something, we like to take the ones that we think are going to be the least likely to be helped,” said Merritt. Currently, there is a bonded pair of orange tabby cats at DAC that had drawn blood every day at their previous shelter. This shelter reached out and specifically asked for help. Describing the pair, Merritt said, “We are making progress but there have been battle wounds.” The potential for roughness inside the two cat rooms on site is not unfamiliar, and the staff who work with the animals know exactly what sort of personalities they are dealing with. As Merritt explained, “We tell our new cat leads, ‘You may get bitten, you may get scratched, here is the first aid kit.’ We detail who you can just force pet, who you can’t, and so on. They’re all very complicated little creatures.” DAR also encourages fosters to take animals that are less adoptable. The engagement with the volunteers, employees, and shoppers helps to boost socialization with humans and other animals. For those interested in helping DAR, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities, and you can find sign-ups that explain various requirements and duties. Outside contributions of kitten food and kitten litter, as well as dog toys, are always appreciated. Simply shop at their location at 5895 E. Evans Ave. #102. All help is welcome. You can find more information at demisanimalrescue.com. ■ CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS May 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL NEWS KENYA’S TICKING BOMB AS UNEMPLOYED YOUTH LURED INTO TRAFFICKERS’ DENS Young people in Nairobi and Kenya’s coastal regions are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking into Somalia. Despite ongoing instability in the horn of Africa nation, many young people are lured with promises of opportunities to work in humanitarian NGOs and as teachers and translators. BY JOYCE CHIMBI AHMED BAKARI’S ILL-FATED JOURNEY to ‘greener pastures’ started with a social media private message from a stranger back in 2017. The message said an international NGO was recruiting teachers and translators to work in Somalia. “I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Communication in 2013. Other than for the odd job here and there, I was mostly unemployed,” Bakari says. “My mother raised five of us single-handedly, and I was her hope. Taking loans to put me through university, but it was all amounting to nothing.” With a starting salary of $500 and additional food and housing allowances, Bakari had no dilemma – he was going to Somalia. Growing up in Lamu, a small group of islands situated on Kenya’s northern coastline, he knew that Somalia was not far from the border, and the journey there was uneventful. Upon arrival in Somalia, he says, the unexpected happened. Bakari was taken to a house where he cooked and cleaned for between 10 to 20 men – without pay. “I do not know what was going on in that house because they would come in and go at all hours. I lived under lock and key TRAFFICKERS TARGET UNEMPLOYED YOUTH IN KENYA. WHILE THE GOVERNMENT IS WORKING TO COMBAT THIS CRIME, COVID-19 IMPACTED THEIR EFFORTS. HERE A POLICE OFFICER IS IN DISCUSSION WITH A COMMUNITY POLICING COMMITTEE THAT WORKS TOGETHER TO COMBAT CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES, LIKE TRAFFICKING. CREDIT: JOYCE CHIMBI/IPS FREE HOT MEALS Capitol Hill Community Services at Trinity Church 1820 Broadway HOURS Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 11:45 – 12:30 11:45 – 12:30 closed 11:45 – 12:30 11:45 – 12:30 Closed on National Holidays YOU ARE WELCOME HERE 10 DENVER VOICE May 2022 for one year. One day there was a disagreement among them, and a fight broke out. During the chaos, I found my chance to leave the house,” he recounts. “I remained in Somalia for another six weeks until somebody helped me get to the Dadaab border. I crossed over into Kenya like a refugee because I was afraid of telling my story.” Young people in Nairobi and Kenya’s coastal regions are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking into Somalia. Despite ongoing instability in the horn of Africa nation, many young people are lured with promises of opportunities to work in humanitarian NGOs and as teachers and translators. Bakari, who now runs an eatery in Mombasa, says criminal groups are particularly interested in young people who can speak Arabic, Swahili, English, and Somali. “Criminals take advantage of historical marginalization of communities in the coastal region, very high youth unemployment rates, and poverty. They also use radical Islamic teachings to lure young and desperate minds,” says Abubakar Mahmud, an activist against human trafficking. “There was a time when the Pwani si Kenya (Swahili for ‘coastal region is not Kenya’) was gaining traction as a backlash campaign against the national government. These are the emotions that terror groups are happy to stir and exploit,” Mahmud says, adding they also take advantage of the high levels of youth unemployment. According to the most recent census released in 2020, youth unemployment is a serious issue in Kenya. More than a third of Kenyan youth aged 18 to 34 years are unemployed, and the situation has worsened since COVID-19. Kenya National Crime Research Centre says this East PAGE TITLE African nation is a source, transit route, and destination for human trafficking victims. People from Uganda, Burundi, and Ethiopia are trafficked into Kenya for hard labor. Ethiopians are trafficked into South Africa for hard labor. The US Department of State 2021 Trafficking in Persons Report finds that the government of Kenya does not fully meet “the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so.” These efforts include the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2010, which criminalized sex trafficking and labor trafficking and prescribed penalties of 30 years to life imprisonment, a fine of not less than $274,980, or both. The government also allocated $183,320 to the National Assistance Trust Fund for Assisting Victims of Trafficking in 2020-2021. The report finds that “criminals involved in terrorist networks lure and recruit Kenyan adults and children to join non-state armed groups, primarily al-Shabab in Somalia, sometimes with fraudulent promises of lucrative employment.” For years, Al-Shabab has operated clandestine bases in Somalia just across Kenya’s eastern border, enabling the terror group to expand its operations into Kenya and other East African countries. “From my experience, they will befriend you and some of your friends and relatives on social media. You will feel safe because you have friends in common. They will even tell you that you grew up in the same neighborhood years ago. You end up trusting them very quickly and getting involved with them without asking the right questions,” Bakari cautions. Mukaru Muthomi, a police officer with the National Police Service, says that in 2019, Kenya banned trade between Kenya and Somalia through the Lamu border due to insecurity and combat criminal activities such as existing networks and syndicates dealing in human trafficking. The Lamu border crossing is one of four that join Kenya and Somalia, and other border points are in Kenya’s Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa Counties. He says the government is vigilant along the Dadaab and Mandera border point routes used by Somali refugees crossing into Kenya. Kenya hosts more than 500,000 refugees from Somalia. Mahmud says human trafficking is a pressing issue in Kenya partly because criminals are increasingly taking advantage of the large numbers of refugees from Ethiopia, Sudan, and Somalia to complicate the country’s fight against human trafficking. In 2019, the government identified 853 victims of human trafficking and another 383 victims in 2020. Mahmud is quick to warn that many cases have gone unreported, and COVID-19 hampered efforts to counter human trafficking. He also says there are not enough officers to combat human trafficking. Nevertheless, Kenya’s Trafficking in Persons Report shows the country’s investigative capacity of the Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit is gradually increasing. Personnel increased from 33 to 37 officers deployed in human trafficking hotspots. There are 27 officers in Nairobi and 10 in Mombasa, with plans to open a third office in Kisumu. “Increasing personnel is good, but the government must address the root of these problems because human trafficking into and out of Kenya is interlinked with poverty. Find job opportunities for young people,” Mahmud observes. The census, he says, showed that “3.7 million young people between 18 and 34 years without a job were not even actively looking for work because they have no hope of finding employment in Kenya. This is a ticking time bomb.” ■ Courtesy of Inter Press Service / International Network of Street Papers MARTA SHOMAN WORRY, BE GONE I am a renter in senior public housing. Growing old with failing vision and spotty hearing, supported by a personal economy of constriction: this, a formula for worry, fear and fret. I worry. And worry some more. What does it take to slow the anxious, slippery worry mind? To hear its’ monotonous beat each day and give it the kick? Worry: Who invited you to become an unwelcome companion messing with my emotional navigation system? Worry: You may be familiar, Like the dripping faucet whose washers are not replaced. Drip, drip, drip the worry until it runs dry. Worry: I call you out for what you are: a despot of distraction, determined, to derail confidence and hope. I pass you by. As I go, I feel your metal breath breathing across my neck: It is only worry. It is not me. A gift from life: all that is out of balance can right itself. You are a memory that no longer haunts me. Adios, worry. I leave you and head out into the morning sun to sing. To you, a ragged, colorless worry: you who has out-lived your droning mission. I give gratitude for daily, life lessons sharp and numbing; they now lie far behind me. Worry: I see you now. An empty frozen force that chokes courage from the heart, stirring jagged knives of doubt in the mind. WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org May 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS SELF, WHAT THOUGHTS ARE YOU HAVING TODAY? RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA SELF, WHAT THOUGHTS ARE YOU HAVING TODAY? Good, or Bad? Self, Why do you think that about people you don’t know? You probably cursed someone today, Self, even if it wasn’t said out loud. Did you get impatient with someone or try and help that person? Did you look at Self and say, “I wish I was dead”? or did you say, “I love you, Self”? Yesterday, you may have messed up. But today, you can do better! Did you promise to do something for someone, and then leave them hanging? Did you get mad because things didn’t go Self’s way? Did you help anyone today or just wish someone else could do what you know you could have done? Do you hate Self so much, that you blame everyone else for your troubles? Did you make another just as unhappy as you are? Did you think, “If I help others, Self’s problems are not so big after all”? Self, Always talk love to Self, so you will change how you look at the world, or how Self feels and thinks. Let people know who you are by your actions. Happy Self means happy people around Self. Mad Self makes people not want to be around you! Self, You need to control what you think. Be more careful about what you feel because feelings turn into actions that can be good or bad. So, Self, Be careful of your thoughts. ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN Do good for Self! Believe you are worth nothing but good around you. Always put Self first. Then, you will treat people the way you feel. ■ BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE May 2022 EVENTS THE ART OF POETRY In celebration of National Poetry Month in April and Older Americans Month in May, the Lighthouse Writers Workshop presents this poetry writing workshop for older adult poets of all levels – even ones who don’t consider themselves as poets. This event will be a combination of both discussing and writing original poetry. WHEN: May 2, 9, and 16, 12 – 1 p.m. COST: This event is free, but registration is required. WHERE: Online INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 WHAT WE’RE WATCHING WITH JOHN ANZALONE Pixar Studios’ award-winning Monsters, Inc. tells the story of two monsters who must help a little girl return home, and in the process, realize that things aren’t always the way they seem. Join film professor, John Anzalone, for an in-depth look at this classic comedy. WHEN: May 8, 1:30 – 3 p.m. COST: This event is free, but registration is required. WHERE: Online INFO: denverlibrary.org/events DYKETOPIA FILM SERIES Every month, local comedians and queens, Kate McLachlan and Lee Robinson, present a throwback movie + hilarious commentary that will have you LOLing all night. Arrive early to get a good seat! WHEN: May 18, doors at 6 p.m., movie at 7 p.m. COST: $10 WHERE: Wide Right, 2100 Curtis St. INFO: widerightdenver.com ACROSS DOWN 1. Opening 6. Have a bawl 9. Th ey’re entered in court 14. Cat’s cry (Var.) 15. Afghani coin, once 16. Calculus calculation 17. Horse breed with a spotted coat 19. Old Spanish card game 20. Polite palindromic title 21. Common sense 22. Skin layer 23. Coves 25. Talk, talk, talk 26. Post-Civil War period 32. Stage pieces 33. Butcher’s cut 34. Taqueria La ___, restaurant in Northeast Portland 37. Desert of Chile 41. News bit LEARN TO COMPOST Learn the ins and outs of composting at this free, community event. WHEN: May 21, 10 – 11:30 a.m. COST: Free WHERE: Montbello Branch Library, 12955 Albrook Dr. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming SLOAN’S LAKE SPRING BAZAAR This outdoor market will feature 80+ local vendors, pop-up bars, food trucks, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. WHEN: May 21, 12 – 6 p.m. and May 22, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: 1611 Raleigh St. INFO: facebook.com/DenverBazaar 42. Indian melodies 43. Hoovers 48. Hair raiser? 49. Some billiard balls 50. Lexicographer’s concern 53. ___ of the above 54. Pass over 58. Flummoxed 59. Fish gelatin 61. Gathers leaves 62. Half a score 63. “Be-Bop-___” (Gene Vincent hit) 64. Quench 65. Part of a joule 66. Less ruddy 1. Muslim holy man 2. Asian palm 3. Spanish appetizer 4. Wander 5. Wise one 6. Gone bad, in Britain 7. Removal from power 8. Early stage of an animal 11-Down 9. Trudge 10. Citrus fruit 11. Fertilized egg 12. Flyboy 13. Porterhouse, e.g. 18. Keeps 23. As originally found 24. Sean Connery, for one 26. Dashboard abbr. 27. Bard’s “before” 28. Trigonometry abbr. 29. Kind of nerve 30. Pageant wear 31. Machu Picchu native 35. Greek god of thunder 36. Coiled fossil shell 38. “Act your ___!” 39. Blemish 40. Biblical beast 43. Ancient Rome’s ___ Virgins 44. Baked ___ 45. Less distant 46. Silver ___ 47. Garden with a snake 48. Food thickeners 51. Avid fan 52. “___ on Down the Road” (“Th e Wiz” song) 54. Stewpot 55. Injure severely 56. ___ of Man 57. Abdicator of 1917 60. Mind the ___ May 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Rose Community Foundation - CMP Denver Foundation Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 CHFA Direct Effect $1,000-$4,999 Cranaleith Foundation, Inc BNSF Railway Foundation Jerry Conover Bright Funds Jill Haug Key Renter Property Management Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Mary Walker Walker Family Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners Whole Foods Foundation Signs by Tomorrow Michael Dino Energy Outreach Colorado SEI Giving Fund Colorado Credit Union Foundation Mr. Paul Manoogian Donald Weaver Josh Kauer Creating Healthier Communities Kroger Matthew Rezek Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Gaspar Terrana Patrick Hagan Jim Ashe The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Megan Arellano Audrey Chumley Christopher Boulanger George Litcher Family Fund $500-$999 Betty & Warren Kuehner Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Dave and Julia Watson Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson 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 Laura Wing Eileen Di Benedetto Katherine Standiford Ridley Mcgreevey and Winocur Charles and Jennifer Thornton-Kolbe Jennifer Stedron Stephen Saul Matthew Deller Erin Bowers Laura Saunders Dana Rinderknecht Alexander Seavall Courage and Community Foundation 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE May 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org DRUG REHAB USA Addiction hotline: 866-716-0142. Organizations that take Medicaid: https://drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org May 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

D E N V E R T V S O I A C F E 2 A F 2 E U 0 B M N 2 D G R A , METLO ROOFTOP 1111 N Broadway Denver, CO 80203 SUNDAY, MAY 22 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. A 2 N I Y JOIN THE DENVER VOICE FOR OUR ANNUAL RISE & THRIVE BREAKFAST! This complimentary event, put together by some of Denver’s best breakfast and brunch locations, helps raise awareness and funds for our programs and services. Together, we can give those experiencing homelessness and poverty the opportunity to earn a dignifi ed income. I S 2 TO RSVP, SCAN THIS CODE  or visit denvervoice.org/rise-and-thrive R K

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE The RIPPLE EFFECT UNDERSTANDING HISTORICAL CRIMINALIZATION OF PEOPLE BASED ON THEIR ECONOMIC STTUS HELPS EXPLAIN – BUT NOT JUSTIFY – MODERNDA TMENT OF U.S. HOMELESS. PAGE 6 HAND NEWLY-FORMED HOUSEKEYS ACTION NETWORK DENVER (HAND) MAY BE A MODEL FOR OTHER ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS TO FOLLOW. PAGE 7 BRAZIL’S LITTLE UKRAINE PRAYS FOR ANCESTRAL HOMELAND WRACKED BY FEELINGS OF DESPAIR AND POWERLESSNESS, LOCALS PRAY FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILIES BACK IN UKRAINE. PAGE 8 DISCRIMINATION ADDS TRAUMA FOR ROMA FLEEING UKRAINE INCIDENTS OF BRUTAL DISCRIMINATION OF ROMA HAVE BEEN REPORTED AT THE BORDERS OF COUNTRIES TAKING IN REFUGEES. PAGE 9 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 APRIL 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 4 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: PHOTO BY AVE CALVAR ON UNSPLASH

EDITOR’S NOTE ON MARCH 9, temperatures in ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR Denver ranged from a low of 7 degrees to a high of only 23. When the City of Denver conducted a sweep of a homeless encampment that morning, one Denver VOICE contributor commented on Twitter about the cruelty of conducting sweeps without offering shelter to those who were displaced or telling folks where (or if) they could find their belongings. In response, several people commented that they agreed, but there also were comments that took exception to our contributor’s tweet. One person wrote, “Good.” Another accused the contributor of being “fake news,” while another said the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in Denver was actually 6,000, not the12,000 total our contributor mentioned. Regardless of whether there are 12,000, 6,000, or 600 people in Denver experiencing homelessness, these are people sleeping on the streets. Maybe some of them are junkies or drunks who “have chosen to be homeless.” That certainly makes it OK for the City to clear out these encampments, right? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 26% of Americans ages 18 and older suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Granted, not all of those with mental health issues are addicts or end up on the streets, but what if one out of every four individuals experiencing homelessness suffers from a mental disorder? How helpful is it to those individuals to be swept — especially when many of them will simply relocate to a different camp down the road? I’ve said before that homelessness is ugly. But no matter how much pushback we get from others, and regardless of whether anyone considers it “fake news,” those of us who make up the Denver VOICE will continue to point it out when we or members of our broader community forget that regardless of where people sleep, they are our fellow human beings, and they deserve to be treated with dignity. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg APRIL CONTRIBUTOR ROBERT DAVIS is an award-winning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has appeared in Invisible People, The Progressive, Yellow Scene Magazine, Motley Fool, and Medium.com 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. 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. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ashton Brown Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Gigi Galen WRITERS Lando Allen Zakkayah Brooks Rea Brown Frances Ford Raelene Johnson Queene Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 2 DENVER VOICE April 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE JENNIFER SEYBOLD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I HEAR A SENSE OF FRUSTRATION AND DESPAIR from many in our community over Denver’s growing poverty and homelessness crisis. The majority of us stay informed, vote, volunteer, and provide support through mutual aid efforts, but there is much confusion about governmental policy, and, for many, an overwhelming feeling that the problem is just too big. It’s true, these issues are big! They’re complex and cannot be solved through a single approach. The root causes of poverty and homelessness are as varied and unique as the individuals who experience it. Solutions, then, must be varied, too. They must address not just housing, but housing that tackles the issue at every stage. These solutions must include strategies that address equal employment, resource access, and systems of structural marginalization. I’m happy that our community is talking about the need for permanent housing alongside more immediate-need temporary solutions like Safe Outdoor Spaces. It’s great to see organizations breaking apart systems of structural marginalization by building new pathways. Still, there is a lot of work to be done. In a time when jobs are less structured than ever before, ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN our societal norms and expectations still dictate a pretty limited view of gainful employment – especially when it comes to those experiencing homelessness and poverty. Unfortunately, these shifts toward a less traditional workday, and the changes affecting where and how we work, seem to be reserved only for the privileged. Some supportive employment programs take a rescue approach, trying to fit individuals into a 9-to-5 work box, or a structure where they’ll never achieve financial independence. I’m proud to say that the Denver VOICE has always operated from a perspective of rights not rescue, by offering employment and economic opportunity that doesn’t put those we serve into a series of boxes. We believe that a holistic approach to community wealthbuilding must include opportunities that fall into an important middle-ground; a place where individuals can hold meaningful work that isn’t limited by challenges that prevent them from more traditional work. Beyond providing the opportunity we view as right for the individual, the VOICE provides a space for individuals to decide what opportunities are right for them. Our work is constituent-led, equity-focused, and we value the lived experience of individuals to better their own lives and significantly improve our communities! Today, when we are seeing a more open-minded response to varied and unique housing and access approaches to poverty, I am grateful to our supporters for recognizing the Denver VOICE as a critical and cutting-edge approach to employment! I thank our sponsors and readers for supporting meaningful work and for making it possible for those we employ to take the reins of their own lives in whatever direction they choose regardless of age, race, criminal and personal history, or mental/physical disability. Thank you for your ongoing support as we keep forging into the future! ■ HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. April 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

INTERNATIONAL STORY RISE IN DESTITUTION More than 31% of children in Britain were living in poverty in 2019/2020, up from 27% in 2013/14. But the latest data predates COVID-19 and the jump in costs, which charities say have tipped yet more families into hardship. Even before the pandemic, the numbers in extreme poverty had soared. More than a million households, including 550,000 children, experienced destitution in 2019, up 35% since 2017, according to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. Child poverty rates are particularly high in single-parent homes, larger families, and those from ethnic backgrounds. Single mother Jo Barker-Marsh, 49, who lives with 12-yearold son Harry in the northern city of Manchester, said child poverty remained hidden in Britain with many families sliding into hardship after relationship breakdowns and job losses. Ten years ago, she was a filmmaker earning a good salary. But as a single mother raising a son with special educational needs, she could not resume a full-time career. She took a part-time cleaning job but lost it as the pandemic struck. “There’s shame and humiliation that comes with poverty,” Barker-Marsh said. “People think they’re better than us. They accuse you of scrounging.” Poverty is not only exhausting but physically painful, said Barker-Marsh, who like Kim has reduced what she eats. “The cold radiates from the center of your being. Because A WOMAN AND CHILDREN CAST THEIR SHADOWS AS THEY STROLL IN THE SUNSHINE ON THE SOUTHBANK IN LONDON, BRITAIN SEPTEMBER 19, 2015. REUTERS/NEIL HALL U.K. COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS REVEALS ‘HIDDEN’ CHILD POVERTY Families forced to choose between heating and eating as soaring energy bills and food prices spotlight extent of poverty in Britain. BY EMMA BATHA KIM DREADS HER CHILDREN’S BIRTHDAYS. When her son recently turned 11, she gave him a chocolate bar and a card - with food and fuel costs sky-rocketing, it was all she could afford. The family’s north Wales home gets bitterly cold in winter, but heating remains a luxury. Kim’s four sons - among 4.3 million British children living in poverty - walk round the house bundled in layers of clothing, dressing gowns, and blankets, clutching hot water bottles. “I try and make it out to be an adventure to them. But it’s not an adventure for anybody. They’re cold,” said Kim, whose husband lost his job as a builder six months into the pandemic. Poorer families, already squeezed by years of austerity, are struggling more than ever as food prices surge - and things are set to get even tougher in April when energy bills soar by 54%. Anti-poverty charities have called for urgent fixes to the country’s welfare system, saying growing numbers of families are being forced to choose between eating and heating, while parents like Kim skip meals so their children get enough. “It’s shocking. We’re in 2022, living in an advanced country - apparently, but we’ve got families where people are starving,” said Kim. Inflation hit 5.4% in December, a 30-year-high, and could top 7% in coming months - welfare benefits will only rise 3.1% in April in what is the world’s fifth-richest economy. A likely increase in housing costs and a looming tax hike to help fund the country’s struggling health and social care systems will only add to the pressure. The boss of budget supermarket of Iceland, Richard Walker, made headlines recently when he said his stores were losing customers to food banks and hunger, amid rising food prices. Kim, 37, used to cook everything from scratch, but is now reduced to feeding her children “cheap, processed crap”. “That’s the only way I can describe it because it’s not food,” said Kim, who asked not to use her full name. For two pounds ($2.70) she can put chicken nuggets, noodles, and tinned beans on the table. Cooking a roast chicken with vegetables would cost more than four times that - money she does not have. Kim and her husband miss most meals, surviving on toast. It pains her to see the children missing out. “Birthdays are heart-breaking,” she said. “What kid wants to open nothing on their birthday?” you can’t eat enough food, your body doesn’t operate properly. You go to bed freezing and wake up in pain.” ‘UNFIT FOR PURPOSE’ Kim and Barker-Marsh are part of a project called Covid Realities, spearheaded by the universities of York and Birmingham and the Child Poverty Action Group charity, which has charted the lives of low-income families during the pandemic. A report published last month called for major reforms to the social security system, branding it “unfit for purpose”. The government was praised at the start of the pandemic for temporarily boosting Britain’s Universal Credit welfare payment by 20 pounds a week, but it withdrew the top-up in October. Anti-poverty campaigners want it restored urgently. Dan Paskins of Save the Children UK said some European countries, including Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands, had much lower child poverty rates. This was largely due to better childcare support, so more parents were able to work, and higher welfare payments. Britain, however, has seen significant cuts to social security in the last decade and is one of the world’s most expensive countries for childcare, Paskins said. The conservative government has rejected accusations of doing too little, pointing to measures worth 12 billion pounds to help struggling households and a 9-billion-pound package to counter rising energy costs. But the massive hike in fuel prices, which will add hundreds of pounds to household bills, triggered further outrage this month after energy giants unveiled multi-billion-pound profits. Some politicians have called for a windfall tax on their gains to help families facing fuel poverty. Barker-Marsh said the higher bills meant she would have to sell her home and accused energy suppliers of “dancing on the bodies of the poor”. “My son is sick of being cold,” she said, her voice breaking. “I’m really, really angry right now. There are so many of us. But no one is listening.” ■ Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / International Network of Street Papers 4 DENVER VOICE April 2022 SPRING WISH LIST With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list, but we can always use coats and jackets. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries 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) Ball caps, hats Fold-up umbrellas, backpacks ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR JACOB MARSH. Q Do you think Safe Outdoor Spaces are a better or worse option than unsanctioned camping spots? A LANDO ALLEN I’m not sure if they’re better or worse, but I can tell you this: There are a couple of shelters, and if you get kicked out of them, you will have to find somewhere to stay. To me that would suck. A good thing about the Safe Outdoor Spaces is that you won’t get messed with by the cops. I hope that the security at SOS are making sure people don’t get robbed or that anyone doesn’t become a target of anyone else staying there. But if I’m sleeping outside, I would want to be away from people. JERRY ROSEN I think Safe Outdoor Spaces are better because they’re protected by security that patrols the area to make sure it is safe. You have to go by the rules at the SOS and do your part to keep it clean and safe. REA BROWN As I rush to the bus another day, as I go through the same routine to pay, and as I walk to a seat, I think of what I should say about the fate of the homeless and where their head should lay, I feel disgusted. Some trust outdoor living is okay Trust me, even those that love it don’t like when the skies are gray huddled up at the station with faces of disarray. Some looking distant like they’re wishing they were in a different place 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. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. April 2022 DENVER VOICE 5 their prescription is an addiction a pen can’t erase. The only real fix is for it to be replaced And yes, there’s no one right answer for every case. Unless we’re talking a miracle that’s involving faith I know I’m way off the subject, but it’s adjace. Do I think Safe Outdoor Spaces are better or worse than unsanctioned camping spaces? Neither! There must be a better way.

NATIONAL FEATURE JIM CROW LAWS After the American Civil War (1861–1965), most Southern states passed laws denying Black people basic human rights. Later, many Border States followed suit. These laws became known as Jim Crow laws after the name of a popular blackface character that would sing songs like “Jump Jim Crow.” In California, Jim Crow played out against Chinese immigrants more than Black people. From 1866 to 1947, Chinese residents of San Francisco were forced to live in one area of the city. The same segregation laws prohibited interracial marriage between Chinese and non-Chinese persons, and educational and employment laws were also enforced in the city. African and Native American children had to attend separate schools from those of white children. In 1879, the California constitution read that no Chinese people could vote. The law was not repealed until 1926. Oregon and Idaho had similar provisions in their constitutions. In 1891, a referendum required all Chinese people to carry a “certification of residence” card or face arrest and jail. In 1909, the Japanese were added to the list of people who were prohibited by law from marrying white people. In 1913, “Alien Land Laws” were passed that prohibited any Asian people from owning or leasing property. The law was not struck down by the California Supreme Court until 1952. SUNDOWN TOWNS Sundown Towns did not allow people who were considered PHOTO BY PAWEL CZERWINSKI ON UNSPLASH THE RIPPLE EFFECT: Historical criminalization in the U.S. and contemporary treatment of the homeless BY THE WESTERN REGIONAL ADVOCACY PROJECT The United States has a long history of using mean-spirited and often brutal laws to keep certain people out of public spaces and consciousness. Jim Crow, Sundown Towns, Anti-Okie laws, Operation Wetback, and Ugly Laws targeted various populations based on their racial, economic, social, immigration, or disability status. Understanding this history will provide context for the modern exclusionary and discriminatory laws that specifically target homeless people for what are referred to as “Quality of Life” or “Nuisance” crimes. These criminalize sleeping, sitting, loitering, panhandling, and even food sharing. Just like the laws from our past, they deny people their right to exist in local communities. These laws have their roots in the broken windows theory, which holds that one poor person in a neighborhood is like a first unrepaired broken window; if such a “window” is not immediately fixed or removed, it is a signal that no one cares. As a result, disorder will flourish, and the community will go to hell in a handbasket. UGLY LAWS From the 1860s to the 1970s, several American cities had laws that made it illegal for people with “unsightly or disgusting” disabilities to appear in public. Some of these laws were called “unsightly beggar ordinances.” The first ordinance was in San Francisco in 1867, but the most commonly cited law was from Chicago. Chicago Municipal Code section 36034 stated: “No person who is diseased, maimed, mutilated or in any way deformed so as to be an unsightly or disgusting object or improper person to be allowed in or on the public ways or other public places in this city, or shall therein or thereon expose himself to public view, under a penalty of not less than one dollar nor more than fifty dollars for each offense.” ANTI-OKIE LAWS The agricultural workers who migrated to California for work in the 1900s were generally referred to as “Okies.” They were assumed to be from Oklahoma, but they moved to California from other states as well. The term became derogatory in the 1930s when massive numbers of people migrated west to find work. In 1937, California passed an “anti-Okie” law which made it a misdemeanor to “bring or assist in bringing” extremely poor people into the state. The law was later considered unconstitutional. OPERATION WETBACK Operation Wetback began in 1954 in California and Arizona as an effort to remove all undocumented Mexican immigrants from the Southwestern states. The operation was created by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and coordinated 1,075 border control agents along with state and local police agencies. The agents went house to house looking for Mexicans and performed citizenship checks during traffic stops. They would stop any “Mexican-looking” person on the street and insist on seeing identification. Operation Wetback was only abandoned after a large outcry from opponents in both the United States and Mexico. “minorities” to remain in the town after the sun set. Some towns posted signs at their borders specifically telling people of color to not let the sun set on them while in the town. There were town policies and real estate covenants in place to support this racism, which was enforced by local police officers. Sundown Towns existed throughout the United States: there were thousands of them in existence before the Civil Rights Act of 1968 prohibited racial discrimination in housing practices. Sundown Towns simply did not want certain ethnic groups to stay in their towns at night. If undesired people were to wander into a Sundown Town after the sun had set, they would be subject to any form of punishment from harassment to lynching. While the state of Illinois had the highest number of Sundown Towns, they were a national phenomenon that mostly targeted anyone of African, Chinese, and Jewish heritage. TODAY: BROKEN WINDOW LAWS Today’s laws have their roots in the broken windows theory, which holds that one poor person in a neighborhood is like a first unrepaired broken window. If such a “window” is not immediately fixed or removed, it is a signal that no one cares, which will lead to disorder and the disintegration of the community. A direct outcome of this theory is the introduction of legislation to criminalize the presence of homeless people in public. Current “Quality of Life” laws also take a certain population into account: homeless persons. Using these laws, people are criminalized for simply walking, standing, sleeping, and other regular human behaviors. In other words, they are penalized and harassed simply because of who they are. Just as with Jim Crow, Ugly Laws, Anti-Okie Laws, and Operation Wetback, how people look and their very existence is the basis for charging them with criminal behaviors. ■ Courtesy of Street Spirit / International Network of Street Papers 6 DENVER VOICE April 2022 COMMUNITY PROFILE HOUSEKEYS, NOT SWEEPS BY ROBERT DAVIS A NEWLY FORMED ORGANIZATION seeks to address housing instability in Denver by getting more people involved in advocating for affordable housing. Housekeys Action Network Denver (HAND), a nonprofit, officially launched March 7, and its members describe it as a model that other advocacy organizations should follow. HAND will conduct surveys of people experiencing homelessness to learn about their preferred housing options and any roadblocks they experienced while trying to access services. This information will then be used to advocate for specific solutions to the identified problems. The group says this dynamic is currently missing from many of the organizations that claim to advocate on behalf of homeless people. “We have not even come close to regaining housing for people that need it,” Terese Howard, HAND’s lead organizer, told Denver VOICE in an interview. “And, by and large, people on the streets want housing, but there isn’t enough housing being built and there won’t be enough any time soon.” Howard, who has been advocating for Denver’s unhoused for more than nine years, said Denver will be the initial launching site for HAND. According to Howard, the program has already generated interest from cities across the country. One of the key issues that HAND is focused on solving is getting people experiencing housing instability into the housing options that work for them. Howard said the debate about housing in Denver has become too focused on the number of units available rather than the housing types that promote stable living conditions. For example, Howard points to Denver’s declining homebuilding rate as a key driver of HAND’s work. Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis shows that the number of building permits issued for new residential construction projects is still well below levels measured in 1997. This is despite the significant increase in permits issued over the last decade. Government bureaucracy has also helped to To being to unravel the mismatch between available housing stock and demand, HAND developed a 25-question survey in partnership with the Western Regional Advocacy Project to gather data about what housing types can be most beneficial to reducing housing instability. The survey asks respondents questions that range from their opinions about the meaning of affordable housing to more detailed questions about their past housing experiences and knowledge of available services. “This work is about the people experiencing homelessness in our community,” an individual identified as ‘V,’ HAND’s survey coordinator, told Denver VOICE. “There is no reason to spend time trying to come up with solutions that are not based on the current situation.” V said they have personally experienced housing instability in their life, and it was those experiences that drew them to HAND. They added that the pandemic really exposed the need to re-establish a personal connection with our neighbors, both housed and unhoused. Even though HAND has only conducted “a few” test runs of its survey, V said the responses have been eye-opening. They have had experiences where respondents became emotional after they were asked for their opinion, which V said is an example of how detached people experiencing housing instability are often ignored in our communities. Outside of its surveys, HAND also plans to hold a biweekly community meeting for people experiencing housing instability to build a community and help advocate for solutions that will benefit them. Meetings will be held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at the Emerson School Building, 1420 Ogden St., which is at the intersection of Colfax Avenue and Ogden Street. There will be free food at each meeting, and people who need to bring shopping carts or other containers for their personal items are welcome to do so. People who are interested in learning more about HAND or donating to the group can call 701-484-2634 or contact them by email at info@housekeysactionnetwork.com. ■ slow Denver’s homebuilding activity as the time it takes to review the permits is increasing. Just 2% of major or intermediate residential construction permits in Denver make it through the initial review process within six weeks, according to data from Community Planning and Development. These projects include new builds and major renovations or additions of at least 400 sq. ft. For comparison, CPD reviews 31% of small residential building permits are reviewed on time. These projects include minor home renovations such as adding a fence and ground-level patio or shed additions. But even if Denver can increase its available housing stock, Howard said the city is not building the right kinds of housing for the people who need it most. For example, Howard points to Denver’s lack of housing units for people making up to 30% of the city’s area median income. Denver has just over 2,000 units available at this income level despite there being more than 38,000 households that need this housing type, according to data from the Department of Housing Stability. ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: DAVID SOLNIT April 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

INTERNATIONAL NEWS HELENA MARCINEK, 48, A CHURCH KEEPER OF UKRAINIAN DESCENT, STANDS IN FRONT OF THE SAO MIGUEL ARCANJO CHURCH IN LINHA NOVA GALICIA, PRUDENTOPOLIS, PARANA STATE, BRAZIL, FEBRUARY 26, 2022. REUTERS/PILAR OLIVARES BRAZIL’S ‘LITTLE UKRAINE’ PRAYS FOR ANCESTRAL HOMELAND BY PILAR OLIVARES OVER 100 CHURCHES STAND in the southern Brazilian town of Prudentopolis, many built in ornate Byzantine style by Ukrainian immigrants who arrived in such large numbers from the late 19th century that it became known as ‘Little Ukraine’. In recent days after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, dubbed a “special operation” by Moscow, the town’s churches have been packed with locals wracked by feelings of despair and powerlessness, praying for friends and families back in Ukraine. Civil servant Oksana Jadvizak, 35, first visited Ukraine in 2008 on a scholarship. She was still there in 2014, during the Maidan uprising that toppled President Viktor Yanukovich, now exiled in Russia. One of her professors died in those clashes, and Jadvizak said she was horrified by the recent escalation with Russia that has left Ukraine a smoldering pile of rubble. “It’s so impactful to see the tanks of war and planes flying over, and hearing my friends saying they are going to battle,” she said in front of a Byzantine church, wearing the Ukrainian soccer jersey, and a yellow-and-blue flag draped around her shoulders. With the sound of a choir rising behind her, Jadvizak had come out to show solidarity with those in Ukraine. “We’re going to pray so that everything ends well,” said Jadvizak, who is of fourth-generation Ukrainian descent, and counts Portuguese as her second language. 8 DENVER VOICE April 2022 Some in the town drew parallels between their own families’ exit from Ukraine, and that of the millions of refugees fleeing in the wake of Russia’s invasion. Nadia Rurak Techy, 66, a shopkeeper whose parents came to Brazil after living through the “terror” of World War Two, said she feared Ukrainian culture would be erased. “I’m distraught,” she said, breaking into tears at her clothes shop. “Ukraine doesn’t deserve this ... Our homeland has to be free. It needs to remain beautiful, as it always was.” ECONOMIC MIGRANTS Ukrainian migrants, many from the western Galicia region that includes the city of Lviv, began arriving in Prudentopolis in 1896, according to Anderson Prado, a historian from the Federal University of Parana who has studied the town’s roots. He said Ukrainians were fleeing extreme poverty, just a few decades after Tsarist Russia outlawed serfdom. They found a welcome home in the vast, fertile south of Brazil. The country, which had recently abolished slavery, was desperate for workers to develop its farmland, and actively recruited Europeans through publicity campaigns. The first roughly 1,500 Ukrainian families that arrived worked in agriculture and sawmills, industries that remain major employers to this day, Prado said. The people of Prudentopolis, named after former Brazilian President Prudente de Morais, have retained surprisingly close ties with Ukraine, Prado said. Over threequarters of the town’s 52,000 people speak some Ukrainian, its official second language. “The descendants who live in Prudentopolis have a fundamental connection with Ukraine,” he said. “They are very close to their relatives who stayed there, and the vast majority dream of returning or visiting the land of their origins.” Dental surgeon Rodrigo Michalovski, 31, agreed. He is part of a decades-old group in the town known as the “Cossack Brotherhood.” The club seeks to maintain ties with Ukrainian culture through dances and historical presentations. Almost all members are Catholic and dress up in traditional clothes, keeping their hair and beards in the classic Cossack style. “We learn to love Ukraine from childhood ... and we carry that love for our entire lives,” Michalovski said. “Every bit of sad news about the war is a stab in my chest, in my heart. We will only have peace again when the fire in Ukraine stops, when I know that our people are safe.” With few means to help those in Ukraine, Jadvizak, the civil servant, said she was offering whatever support she could. “Today I sent a message to my friends saying that if they needed, my house is open,” she said. “I think everyone here in Prudentopolis, where 70% of the population is of Ukrainian descent, is willing to shelter people.” Thiago Zakalugne, 36, a mechanic and fellow member of the ‘Cossack Brotherhood’, echoed the views of many in Prudentopolis, who were at a loss for ways to help. Like them, he was also putting his faith in the divine. “Each bomb that falls over there, each drop of Ukrainian blood spilled is a piece of our heart that breaks,” he said. “If I could, I would certainly go, to try to help somehow ... but our way of helping from here right now is with prayer.” ■ Additional reporting by Gabriel Stargardter. Courtesy of Reuters / International Network of Street Papers INTERNATIONAL NEWS BRUTAL DISCRIMINATION ADDS TRAUMA TO ROMA AS THEY FLEE WAR-TORN UKRAINE BY ED HOLT ROMA REFUGEES FLEEING WAR-TORN UKRAINE are facing discrimination on both sides of the country’s borders at the end of often harrowing journeys across the country, rights groups have claimed. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has sparked what the UN has described as the fastest-growing refugee crisis in Europe since WWII, and as of 9 March, an estimated 2 million people had left the country. These include Roma who, like other refugees, abandoned their homes and communities as fighting broke out across the country. But having reached borders of neighboring states, they have found themselves subject to what some groups helping them have described as “brutal” discrimination. “Groups working on the ground at borders in Slovakia, Romania, and Hungary have confirmed discrimination to us, and also media reports have backed this up. Roma are facing discrimination both by border guards and then local people, once they get out of Ukraine. It’s very sad and disappointing, but not surprising,” said Zeljko Jovanovic, director of the Roma Initiatives Office at the Open Society Foundation (OSF). Roma living in Europe are among the most discriminated and disadvantaged groups on the continent. In many countries, including Ukraine where it is thought there are as many as 400,000 Roma, significant numbers live in segregated settlements where living conditions are often poor and extreme poverty widespread. Health in many such places is also bad with research showing very high burdens of both infectious and non-communicable diseases and significantly shorter lifespans than the general population. Incidents of discrimination of Roma have been reported at the borders of all countries that are taking in refugees, according to the OSF and the European Roma Rights Centre (ERRC). These have included being made to wait much longer in lines, sometimes tens of kilometers long, in freezing weather, than ethnic Ukrainian refugees, before they are processed. “They are always the last people to be let out of the country,” said Jovanovic. Media reports have quoted refugees describing discrimination and, in some cases, physical attacks. One Roma woman who had made her way to Moldova said she and her family had spent four days waiting at the border with no food and water, and having found shelter were then chased out of it by Ukrainian guards. Groups working with the refugees said Roma who crossed into their countries told them similar stories. Viktor Teru of the Roma Education Fund in Slovakia said: “Roma refugees tell us that on the Ukrainian side there is ‘brutal’ discrimination.” But once they finally make it over the border, their problems often do not end there. Bela Racz, of the 1Hungary organization, which is helping Roma refugees in Hungary, said he had witnessed PEOPLE FLEEING RUSSIA’S INVASION OF UKRAINE REST IN A TEMPORARY REFUGEE CENTRE LOCATED AT A LOCAL TRACK-ANDFIELD ATHLETICS STADIUM IN CHISINAU, MOLDOVA MARCH 4, 2022. REUTERS/VLADISLAV CULIOMZA April 2022 DENVER VOICE 9 discrimination during the three days his organization spent in the eastern Hungarian border town of Zahony at the beginning of March. “Roma arrived in separate coaches – the Ukrainian border guards organized it this way – and when they did arrive, Roma mothers were checked by Hungarian police many times, but non-Roma mothers were not. “Local mayors and Hungarians are not providing direct help, such as accommodation, and information, [for Roma] in their towns – that only comes if we ask for it and organize it. Roma did not get proper help, information, or support,” he said. There have been numerous media reports of similar discrimination at border crossings in other countries, including incidents of Roma being refused transport by volunteers, and being refused accommodation. Jaroslav Miko, founder of the Cesi Pomahaji (Czechs Help) NGO, who has transported more than 100 Roma refugees from the Slovak-Ukrainian border to the Czech Republic, said he had seen “discrimination of Roma among the volunteers who were picking people up at the border”. He said volunteers were picking up some refugees in vehicles and taking them to other places, but that Roma families were being turned away if they asked for help. In another incident, the head of a firefighting station in Humenne, in eastern Slovakia, where many Roma refugees have been sent to a holding camp, told a reporter that the refugees had “abused the situation”. “They are not people who are directly threatened by the war. They are people from near the border, they have abused the opportunity for us to cook them hot food here and to receive humanitarian aid,” the firefighter allegedly said, adding that Ukrainian Roma should not be allowed across the border. Slovakia’s Interior Minister Roman Mikulec and national fire brigade officials have refused to comment on the claims. But despite these incidents of discrimination, Roma refugees are getting local help from other Roma. “Many Hungarian Roma living in nearby villages are providing accommodation for Roma. Due to the presence of groups like ours, and state representatives, the situation with discrimination is getting better,” said Racz. “There is a good network of Roma activist groups coordinating work to help refugees and also there are Roma mayors in many towns near the borders in Romania and Slovakia who are prepared to take Roma refugees and arrange shelter for them,” added Jovanovic. However, all those who commented said the discrimination against Roma refugees was a reminder of the systemic prejudice the minority faces. Meanwhile, Jovanovic said he hoped that the problems Roma refugees were facing now would not be forgotten, as they had been in the past. ■ Courtesy of Inter Press Service / International Network of Street Papers

INTERNATIONAL PROFILE POET MAXINE BENEBA CLARKE ON WHAT MAKES A GOOD HUMAN BY SISTA ZAI ZANDA “IT’S ALWAYS HARD – DIFFICULT – CHOOSING A TITLE. And you feel like you don’t know until you’ve got it,” says award-winning writer, poet, and illustrator Maxine Beneba Clarke over a cuppa on Zoom. It’s the publication day of her latest poetry collection How Decent Folk Behave, and we’re chatting about how it got its name. It’s taken from one of her poems, ‘something sure,’ a conversation between a mother and a son about the murder of Hannah Clarke and her three children, and what this act of domestic violence means for both the little boy and his mother’s social responsibility to raise him well. “You know, the mother in the poem says, ‘I taught you well how decent folk behave’ – and I thought to myself Well this is what this collection is about: it is about what is it to be a good human, what does it really mean?” The author of over nine books for adults and children, including the short fiction collection Foreign Soil (2014), her memoir The Hate Race (2016), and the Victorian Premier’s Award-winning poetry collection Carrying the World (2016), Beneba Clarke identifies her poetic lineage as beginning with the oral storytelling of the West African griots and unfolding into the Caribbean and Black British dub and reggae grassroots poetry traditions popularised by Benjamin Zephaniah, Jean “Binta” Breeze, and Linton Kwesi Johnson. She also named the soulful protest folk songs of Tracy Chapman as another major influence on her writing and performance style that, as a child of Black British settlers in Australia, she now brings to bear on her poetic observations about the world today. “[How Decent Folk Behave] was written in the last two years, during which Melbourne was locked down, on and off, for so long,” says Beneba Clarke. “It really made me think more about what is it we miss. And, when we get back out there, what is it that we need to do to look at things like violence against women, climate change, racial justice, and things like that… Instead of having those conversations with friends – because I wasn’t able to sit around and have those musings – it happened on the page.” There’s an emerging trend, particularly among Black women and non-binary writers, to publish work that encourages readers to imagine what the future could possibly hold. Because we already know the world’s problems, the questions now have to be where are we going? What are we creating? And how are we getting there? Would Beneba Clarke situate How Decent Folk Behave within this genre of Black futurist writing? She laughs and nods, “Yeah, I think that. And during the coronavirus, Black Lives Matter galvanizing after the death of George Floyd, and more interest in talking about Aboriginal deaths in custody in Australia and,” she pauses to reflect, FREE HOT MEALS Capitol Hill Community Services at Trinity Church 1820 Broadway HOURS Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 11:45 – 12:30 11:45 – 12:30 closed 11:45 – 12:30 11:45 – 12:30 Closed on National Holidays YOU ARE WELCOME HERE MAXINE BENEBA CLARKE. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS 10 DENVER VOICE April 2022 PAGE TITLE “because it’s a situation where if you go out on the street, you’re not only exposing yourself to police violence, you are exposing yourself to a deadly pandemic and a virus, and with all of these intersecting issues, it’s suddenly the stakes become that much higher. “It’s like this is so important that we are going to go out there even though it means that we are exposed to this risk. I think that was powerful to me and I’m not – I don’t think of myself as – an activist; I am a writer. So, I don’t think it’s up to me to set the agenda…but I try to ask those questions and to highlight some of the powerful things that did come out of the last few years.” Beneba Clarke first earned her status as a popular slam poet in venues around Naarm/Melbourne. This contemporary street poetry scene owes its Blak grounding to creatives like Shelton Lea, Lisa Bellear and Bruce McGuinness, and Beneba Clarke alludes to the power of observational grassroots poetry in the prologue to the collection: “i said/get the fuck back/i am warning you:/i’ve got poetry/their hands were trembling/their eyes were wild/and I could smell/their fear”. Beneba Clarke and I have known each other for a little over a decade now, back to a time before Australian literature embraced diversity in the canon. She remarks how much the landscape has shifted since then but also how much more work still needs to be done. “There are a lot of uncomfortable conversations to come, and that is part of our job if we want to continue to engage with the fact that this is stolen Blak land and what is our responsibility on this land – as people who have been severely affected by colonization ourselves but are now essentially the beneficiaries of the colonization of another country,” she says. “I think part of our task is to amplify the work of Indigenous writers and engage in those conversations which might be hard and which might require us to do some learning and unlearning, but that is where we are. That is what art is for: art creates this space to have these conversations.” Full of poems that speak to the times we collectively inhabit, in How Decent Folk Behave Beneba Clarke writes with nuance and emotion. Each poem leaves the reader keen to dig a little deeper and learn more about the real-life events that inspired them. In this sense, Beneba Clarke is a people’s poet, an archivist for posterity, like the griots who inspire her. ■ Courtesy of The Big Issue Australia / International Network of Street Papers FRANCES FORD LOOKING IN THE HORSE’S MOUTH My friend, safe in a psych ward, doesn’t watch the news unfolding, that we are unbecoming as a hollow monster, so monstrously mythic is our straw horse at the gate, our unraveling. So, envious of her escape, I phone and tell her. I hear background chirps, a little crack in our connection, then soft buzzing oversounds her silence, as if electronic ghosts whisper spite, deserved disdain, through fateful decades of our narrow view, the covered bridge. Our drivers whipped us to longer days and lessened fodder and burned barns. That’s how we got here from there: from a placid riverbank of blue-haired crones checking voter registrations and vaccinated children safely learning science and history to a quicksand shore of ignorant, unbridled ambition and the whip and the spur, forever. WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP QUEENE INDISPUTABLE REALISM A twin’s fame, Propelled, and spurred on by an exceptional Twin Flame. A flame of which, THAT duck, and her quack, So officially proclaim. In God we trust, and history tends to repeatedly Unravel life’s clusterfucks. Stunning, and awestruck, Within an undeniable majestic creation. It is just a life-sized masterpiece painting.. A painting, By: Monet, Picasso, or say: Mr. Vincent Van Gough.. Perspective is everything. I’d much, much, much rather look @ life THIS way. I’d much rather brighten the sad realities of my homeless days, by, far! Brighten my “hand-to-mouth” moments in time. I’d much rather implement THIS perspective, and wade through this situation, And to, Be blessed enough, To have these rhymes. 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org MAXINE BENEBA CLARKE. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS April 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS ZAKKAYAH BROOKS. CREDIT: ELISABETH MONAGHAN RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA TIME FOR A NEW ENDING BY ZAKKAYAH BROOKS, VOICE VENDOR I NEVER THOUGHT at this particular time in my life I’d feel so much heartache and pain, dealing with the death of a loved one so dear to me. Especially during a pandemic, with family needing family and a shoulder to cry on, someone just to talk to or get a hug from. Two people very close to me – the guy I had three kids with, and my stepsister, my mother’s daughter – took my happiness and dignity, my patience and trust – the only things I had left in me. I always thought love and family came together. I guess that belief and trust was wrong. I need a new ending. ■ HOW DO YOU HANDLE WHAT YOU’VE BEEN THROUGH, SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR WHEN THE WORLD GOES CRAZY, how can we take it all in, Self? Do you just say, “I’ll be ok,” even when you know you won’t? Do you just pretend nothing really happened? Do you shut down? Do you act like you have to be strong, even if you’re not? Do you think you will be able to just get over it? Do you get really mad and just keep it in? Do you just want to end it all? Do you just not think about it? Self, do you not know it is okay to get help? You can’t keep it bottled up because, at some point, you will lose it. And when you do lose it, can you overcome the repercussions of your actions? If you feel anything but happy, you need to find out why! Self, it is ok to reach out and get help from people who can help you truly overcome All that pain and misery. Self, if you have to, you MUST get help so you don’t suffer any longer. Self, this world is falling apart. Don’t take the madness train or life of anger! You only kill yourself with all that madness. Get help if you need it. You can have a blessed life with help! ■ FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE April 2022 EVENTS WOMEN+FILM FESTIVAL Women+Film showcases documentaries, narratives, and short films celebrating the best in women-centric programming; both by and about women. These thoughtprovoking stories from around the world are sure to inspire all audiences. WHEN: Apr 5 – Apr 10, times vary. COST: Individual tickets start at $12; festival passes also available. WHERE: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax INFO: denverfilm.org COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES 1 13 17 20 24 27 28 29 31 37 41 INTRO TO IMPROV: DROP-IN CLASS Want to see if improv comedy is right for you? This drop-in class will let you take RISE Comedy’s improv classes for a test drive, in a safe, supportive, and fun environment! WHEN: Apr 7, 14, 21, and 28, 6 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. WHERE: RISE Comedy, 1260 22nd St. COST: $10 INFO: risecomedy.com WHAT WE’RE WATCHING WITH JOHN ANZALONE The Train (1964), directed by John Frankenheimer and starring Burt Lancaster, is loosely based on the true story of French resistance fi ghters trying to stop the Nazis from stealing a trainload of priceless art pieces during World War II. Get a fresh perspective on this oftenoverlooked classic with fi lm professor John Anzalone. WHEN: Apr 10, 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. WHERE: Online COST: Free but online registration is required. INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming 47 48 49 50 52 58 62 65 59 60 63 66 53 54 61 64 67 44 38 42 45 46 51 55 56 57 32 39 40 43 21 25 26 30 33 34 35 36 2 3 4 14 5 15 18 22 23 6 7 COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 8 9 16 19 10 11 12 ACROSS DOWN 1. Muslim holy man 5. Eyebrow shape 9. “Th e Sun ___ Rises” 13. Star in Orion 15. Pacifi c palm 16. Shakespearean king 17. Insect stage 18. Ski lift 19. Aft er-bath powder 20. Sultan’s palace 22. Concept in Hinduism and Buddhism 24. Cobbler cousin WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW: STAND-UP COMEDY What the World Needs Now is a new bi-weekly comedy showcase featuring some of the city’s best comedians, as well as its rising stars. This FREE event occurs every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. WHEN: Apr 13 and 27, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. WHERE: First Draft Kitchen & Taproom, 1309 26th St. BEEKEEPING 101 Curious about beekeeping? Learn everything you need to know to care for your own hive. This event is in-person and no registration is required. WHEN: Apr 16, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. WHERE: The Table Public House, 2190 S. Platte River Dr. COST: Free INFO: denverlibrary.org/events COST: Free INFO: firstdraftdenver.com 2 8 9 5 4 3 9 2 3 7 1 7 6 3 9 2 5 9 2 1 5 7 8 2 7 9 8 7 2 4 9 3 5 April 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 3 8 6 3 4 25. Flightless bird of New Zealand also known as a takahe 27. Writing a computer program 30. “Once ___ a time...” 31. Tiptop 32. Fall guy 37. Entangle or disentangle 39. Down with the fl u 40. Expresses exhaustion or boredom 41. Bones of the hand and foot 43. Actress Catherine ___-Jones 44. 18-wheeler 45. German songs 47. One with memory loss 51. Behave (like) 52. “I’m a little ___...” 53. Try out 58. Director Preminger 59. Bumpkin 61. Shelf 62. Must-have 63. Canal of song 64. Shouts 65. Gaelic 66. Cincinnati nine 67. Bakery selections 1. Colored eye part 2. Gesturer 3. Gelatin substitute 4. Unit of graphic resolution 5. Dead against 6. Genetic messenger usually abbreviated in crosswords (but not this time!) 7. Tax preparer, for short 8. Car roof style 9. Place to exchange vows 10. Discover 11. Game ragout 12. Killer whales 14. Use a username and password 21. Pants part 23. Snookums 26. Milky gems 27. Food fi sh 28. Brightly colored fi sh 29. Hindu deity 32. Greek letter 33. Geographical index 34. Was in debt 35. Add to the pot 36. Ivan the Terrible, e.g. 38. Cow catcher 42. Nor’s partner 45. Boy 46. With frostiness 47. Do penance 48. Poet’s concern 49. Hoopster Archibald and statistician Silver 50. Lyric poem 54. Hawaiian strings 55. One way to stand by 56. Lecher’s look 57. Bitter end? 60. Anger 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

DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation Max & Elaine Appel The Christian Foundation Rose Community Foundation - CMP $5,000 - $9,999 CHFA Direct Effect Anschutz Family Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Cranaleith Foundation, Inc BNSF Railway Foundation Jerry Conover Bright Funds Jill Haug Key Renter Property Management Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Mary Walker Walker Family Foundation Pivotal Energy Partners Whole Foods Foundation Signs by Tomorrow Michael Dino Energy Outreach Colorado SEI Giving Fund Colorado Credit Union Foundation Mr. Paul Manoogian Donald Weaver Josh Kauer Creating Healthier Communities Kroger Matthew Rezek Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Gaspar Terrana Patrick Hagan Jim Ashe The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Megan Arellano Audrey Chumley Christopher Boulanger George Litcher Family Fund $500-$999 Betty & Warren Kuehner Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Dave and Julia Watson Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson 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 Laura Wing Eileen Di Benedetto Katherine Standiford Ridley Mcgreevey and Winocur Charles and Jennifer Thornton-Kolbe Jennifer Stedron Stephen Saul Matthew Deller Erin Bowers Laura Saunders Dana Rinderknecht Alexander Seavall Courage and Community Foundation 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 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! 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 14 DENVER VOICE April 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org April 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 1 6 2 4 3 7 9 8 5 8 9 7 2 5 6 3 4 1 5 4 3 8 1 9 2 6 7 9 8 4 7 6 3 1 5 2 2 3 5 1 4 8 6 7 9 7 1 6 9 2 5 4 3 8 3 5 8 6 9 1 7 2 4 6 2 1 5 7 4 8 9 3 4 7 9 3 8 2 5 1 6 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13 I M A M R I G E L N I P A A R C H A L S O L E A R I M A G O T B A R T A L C S E R A G L I O D H A R M A P I E N O T O R N I S C O D I N G U P O N A P E X R A V E L I L L P H A L A N G E S S E M I O T T O H I C K N E E D E R I E E R S E R E D S S C A P E G O A T Y A W N S Z E T A L I E D E R A M N E S I A C A C T T E A P O T A U D I T I O N L E D G E Y E L L S R Y E S

D E N V E R T V S O I A C F E 2 A F 2 E U 0 B M N 2 D G R A , METLO ROOFTOP 1111 N Broadway Denver, CO 80203 SUNDAY, MAY 22 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. A 2 N I Y JOIN THE DENVER VOICE FOR OUR ANNUAL RISE & THRIVE BREAKFAST! This complimentary event, put together by some of Denver’s best breakfast and brunch locations, helps raise awareness and funds for our programs and services. Together, we can give those experiencing homelessness and poverty the opportunity to earn a dignifi ed income. I S 2 RSVP BY MAY 1 denvervoice.org/rise-and-thrive R K

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE MORE THAN JUST A JOB FAIR-CHANCE HIRING ORGANIZATION OFFERS EMPLOYMENT TO THOSE FACING SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES. PAGE 6 VENDOR PROFILE: ZAKKAYAH BROOKS FACES OF HOMELESSNESS AUTHOR JEFFREY A. WOLIN EXPLAINS WHY CAPTURING ROUGH SLEEPERS IN THEIR MULTITUDES WAS AN IMPORTANT PROJECT TO TAKE ON. PAGE 8 YOUTH ON RECORD LOCAL ORGANIZATION PROVIDES YOUTH WITH EDUCATION AND ART AS TOOLS TOWARDS LIBERATION AND EQUITY. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MARCH 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 3 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: PHOTO PROVIDED BY CSG

EDITOR’S NOTE WHEN ONE OF OUR VENDORS saw the Ask a Vendor question for this issue, he commented that people who purchase the paper from him already know how to prepare for colder weather. Most of us know how to layer ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR up or keep gloves in our coat pockets in case things cool down quickly. So, I understand the vendor’s point: asking for tips to help people stay warm during the colder months may seem irrelevant if we can select from a variety of clothes or outerwear that will keep us warm. However, it isn’t the question, but rather, the responses to the question that hold value for the unhoused community. Those who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability know to keep warm, but when it’s cold outside, they don’t always have access to everything they need to stay that way, and the pandemic has only compounded this issue. So, as you read the vendor tips on how to keep warm during the colder months, it may not be new information, but each of the vendors is sharing tips based on their own experiences with having to figure out where they can go or what they can do to stay warm. And while their suggestions may seem basic, at the very least, it gives us insight into what it takes for them to find the comfort and security that many of us so easily take for granted. ■ March 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. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG HAVEN ENTERMAN is a Colorado native and has been a volunteer copy editor for the VOICE. While studying English and Journalism at CSU, she taught creative writing workshops for incarcerated men and women. Now, she’s proud to help facilitate the dialogue on homelessness in the Denver community. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ashton Brown Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing WRITERS 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. 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. John Alexander Lando Allen Brian Augustine Stacie Booker Robert Davis Haven Enterman Cat Evans Habeel Harney Raelene Johnson Jacob Marsh Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Julia Watson Cabal Yarne 2 DENVER VOICE March 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VENDOR PROFILE VOICE Vendor Profi le: ZAKKAYAH BROOKS BY ELISABETH MONOGHAN ZAKKAYAH BROOKS has been a Denver VOICE vendor since 2008, but like many of our vendors, her life was disrupted by the pandemic. While she has vended the VOICE since we reopened after a two-month shutdown in June of 2020, she’s supplemented her income with other work. This past September, Brooks began working as a subcontractor for a day labor company that sends her to clean new houses before they go on the market. There, she works with painters, electricians, and other contractors onsite to prepare the homes for sale. Recently, Brooks decided she wanted to launch her own soup and sandwich company, so with the assistance of the day labor company, which paid for her to get her business license and insurance, she began delivering sandwiches to the laborers working at the job sites. Because she is fine-tuning her recipes and working out details like pricing and everything she plans to serve, Brooks is giving the sandwiches to the contractors free of charge. That way, she gets feedback on what they like, and she’s getting her name out there for when she officially opens her ZAKKAYAH BROOKS. CREDIT: ELISABETH MONAGHAN business. Each package with the sandwiches includes a card with her business contact information. She also delivers free food to people in need, which has inspired her to explore making her business a nonprofit. With the money Brooks makes from vending the VOICE and working day labor jobs, she spends it on her four grandsons. Additionally, she sends a lot of her earnings to her daughter, who is studying business administration at a college in Dallas. ■ HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. March 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS DENVER SEEKS TO CAPITALIZE ON HOMEBUILDING ACTIVITY WITH NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING REGULATIONS BY ROBERT DAVIS DENVER OFFICIALS ARE HOPING TO CAPITALIZE on increased homebuilding activity with a new policy that seeks to ensure affordable units are included in new developments. The proposal would require new developments of 10 or more units to designate a certain amount of the units as affordable for households making up to 80% of the area median income. The units must remain affordable for a period of 99 years, regardless of whether the unit is rented or sold. In higher-cost areas such as downtown, the policy would require developers to provide more affordable units. Community Planning and Development (CPD), one of the agencies that is developing the plan, said the plan will require all units to be affordable to households making up to $84,000 per year. In addition, the plan calls for a gradual increase of Denver’s linkage fee, a fee that is assessed against new developments that funds future affordable housing development. Currently, the linkage fee ranges between $0.66 per sq. ft. in residential units up to $1.86 per sq. ft. in commercial and industrial contexts. If adopted, the plan CREDIT: COLIN LLOYD, UNSPLASH FREE HOT MEALS Capitol Hill Community Services at Trinity Church 1820 Broadway HOURS Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 11:45 – 12:30 11:45 – 12:30 closed 11:45 – 12:30 11:45 – 12:30 Closed on National Holidays YOU ARE WELCOME HERE 4 DENVER VOICE March 2022 would raise this fee to between $4 per sq. ft. and $8 per sq. ft. by July 2024. CPD said other cities across the U.S. have already implemented similar policies. The agency added that this tool became available to them after state lawmakers passed House Bill 21-1117 last year, which expanded local authority to regulate affordable housing development in Colorado. “Anyone who has been in Denver for some time can tell you how difficult it can be to find a place that’s affordable, especially if your income has not increased as much as rents and home prices have over the past decade,” said Laura Aldrete, executive director of CPD. “This proposal is a big step toward the city delivering on our commitment to help address housing affordability.” One reason why Denver officials are pushing for the policy now is that building activity in the Mile High City is accelerating. According to building permit data from CPD, the number of multi-unit and mixed-use permits skyrocketed between 2020 and 2021. The number of housing units built in multi-unit structures increased by 45% up to 6,585 last year while the number of mixed-use permits increased fourfold up to nearly 1,700. Overall, new development permits for multi-unit and mixed-use development filed with CPD last year carried a valuation of more than $1.4 billion compared to the more than $550 million worth of permits pulled in 2020. The policy could also help the city build more missingmiddle and workforce housing, two housing types that have been decimated over the last decade. According to a recent state report, Colorado’s homebuilding activity slowed by approximately 40% between 2010 and 2020. At the same time, the state’s population grew by 15%. This dislocation of supply and demand has sent home prices upward and eliminated more than 300,000 units that were once affordable to households making up to $45,000 per year. Data from the Department of Housing Stability (HOST), another agency involved with the policy proposal, shows that there are approximately 72,000 households in Denver make up to $45,000 per year but there are only 9,000 income-restricted units available to them. “One in three households in Denver struggles with housing costs, and 46,000 are paying more than half their incomes toward housing,” said Britta Fisher, HOST’s executive director. “These childcare providers, and social workers – the people who make our city run. This proposal helps ensure they cannot only work here but can afford to live here, too.” The proposed policy is available for public comment through March 14. Denver City Council is expected to take up the proposal later this spring. ■ are our restaurant workers, ASK A VENDOR BRIAN AUGUSTINE Don’t be afraid of being a little cold because the cold will make your blood thicken, and that will help keep you warmer during the really cold days. LANDO ALLEN Dress for the cold, and if you are sleeping outside, avoid drinking, and try to stay off the ground. JACOB MARSH Layers, hand warmers, body warmers. Put newspaper or paper towels between layers. My suggestion would also be to get thermal pants, long-sleeved shirts, and thick, warm jackets to stay warm. JERRY ROSEN The best thing an individual could do is dress appropriately and wear the right clothing. If one does work outside, one should drink a lot of hot beverages and go inside occasionally to stay warm. JOHN ALEXANDER I grew up in St. Paul, Minn, where the temperatures could range from -10 to -60 degrees Fahrenheit. This doesn’t include the windchill, which was often between -60 and -80 Fahrenheit. It would snow – I mean it really snow! What other states considered severe storms were regular snow days for us. I lived well into my adult life thinking that it was supposed to snow one or two times per week. I’ve lived in other states during the winter, but in Minn, I learned winter survival, and one day, it was a real miracle, when I moved from Minnesota to Denver, Colo. And here I am. I would love to share some of the techniques I have learned for winter survival and keeping warm. Step 1: Let’s begin with the upper body. As you start your layers, you want a long-sleeve t-shirt, another shirt or thin sweater, and a heavier sweater or shirt. THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q What is a tip you can share to help people stay warm during the colder months? A Next, between the layers, you’ll want hand warmers or foot warmers to wear in the middle of your chest. Consider placing hand warmers or foot warmers in the middle of your back between the layers. (Use a safety pin to keep them in place. These warmers should never come into contact with your skin.) Step 2: Tuck in your shirt to keep outside air from coming in through your open shirttails. Step 3: To keep your legs warm, wear two pairs of pants, or one pair made of thicker fabric, like corduroy. Step 4: Always wear two pairs of socks, plus foot warmers. One pair of socks is to keep your feet warm and the second protects your skin from getting burned by your foot warmers. Also, if your shoes aren’t waterproof, or the snow is deep enough to seep into your shoes, wear something like an empty bread bag as a layer over your socks. Step 5: For your hands, wear a pair of gloves, and a layer of hand warmers. (This is the only place it’s safe to have the warmers next to your skin but place them next to your palms.) Even better, put the hand warmers and gloves inside a mitten. (Keep an open package of hand warmers in your coat pockets. If your hands get cold, it will be much easier to warm them in your pockets than to warm cold hands in pockets that aren’t already warm. Step 6: Keeping your head warm is important, so you need a good hat. Hoodies work well when you pull them snug around your face and head. Wear earmuffs or an ear warmer headband to keep your ears and the lower part of your neck warm. Step 7: This last step is very important: Whenever you go to a store, restaurant, or anywhere else inside for more than 10 minutes, take off your jacket and loosen your shirt — or whatever upper layers you’re wearing to cool down your body. You do not want to go back outside with perspiration from being hot indoors, because no matter how many layers you have on, when the persperation on your skin cools down, it will make you cold. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. March 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY FEATURE PHOTO COURTESY OF CSG LINDA LENGYEL. PHOTO COURTESY OF CSG MORE THAN JUST A JOB: STABILITY AND DIGNITY WITCONSOLIDATED SERVICES GROUP BY HAVEN ENTERMAN TAMMY VAUGHN’S MORNINGS begin at the intersection of Colfax Ave. and Broadway St. Each workday, she sweeps the sidewalk, empties the garbage cans, and does her part to keep the Capitol Hill neighborhood clean and tidy. Her purple uniform is easy to spot, even amongst the hustle and bustle. Vaughn is employed by Consolidated Services Group (CSG), a fair-chance hiring organization providing employment to those facing significant life challenges. Some employees, like Vaughn, are experiencing homelessness. Others are in transitional living spaces or are trying to reenter the community after incarceration. A former night shift nurse, Vaughn could no longer afford Denver’s rising housing costs. “After spending my life here, I felt resentful about being priced out of a place I’d dedicated my life to,” Vaughn explained. “I consider myself a happy person, so that was out of character. [Working at CSG] has helped me feel less angry. I was happy to get the job, and it feels like forward progress.” Since 2014, the organization has partnered with local business improvement districts to help maintain Denver’s public spaces. CSG employees assist with services like trash removal, custodial maintenance, pressure washing, holiday decoration installation, and lighting repairs. “Clean is serious business,” said CSG Finance Director Linda Lengyel. “Studies have shown that cleaning has a great deal of power behind it. It creates not only an aesthetic, but the image of a community that cares for its own.” For employees like Vaughn, employment at CSG is a meaningful way to contribute to the greater good of the city. “I fancy myself somewhat of an ambassador,” Vaughn added. “I feel like I’m helping to keep the popular part of Denver, the part that’s shown to tourists, healthy and safe.” Lengyel stressed that CSG’s mission isn’t just about helping individuals find employment — it’s about giving them the tools for continued success. Like traditional employers, the organization offers a full benefits package including health insurance and paid time off. But, to help employees navigate their unique challenges, CSG provides additional support through on-site laundry machines, lockers, work phones, and EcoPasses for unlimited free rides on RTD buses and trains. Recently, they’ve hired a part-time social worker to supplement pre-existing training for life skills like time management and conflict de-escalation. This approach has proven to be effective. Those who have been with CSG for an extended period of time — in many cases, three years or longer — are dubbed “core employees.” Nelda Green, personnel and human resources director, estimates that the number of core employees is as high as 58%. Though they assist their team members however they can, CSG doesn’t provide overnight shelter. Partners like the Colorado Village Collaborative (CVC), which oversees a variety of Safe Outdoor Spaces and tiny home villages, add the final piece of the puzzle — a safe, warm place for CSG 6 DENVER VOICE March 2022 COMMUNITY FEATURE NELDA GREEN. PHOTO COURTESY OF CSG PHOTO COURTESY OF CSG employees to rest after a long day’s work. Cuica Montoya, director of the Safe Outdoor Spaces program, understands CSG’s mission better than most. Once unhoused herself, Montoya is acutely aware of the allencompassing instability homelessness can create. “When I was experiencing homelessness, there was so much going on in my life that employment seemed so far away,” Montoya said. “By providing people with a place to call home, knowing that their stuff isn’t going to get thrown away and swept, they can start planning for the future. With partners like CSG, it makes that so much easier. We know they’re not going to be judged for their living situation or for their gaps in employment.” Vaughn herself is a CVC resident. Since December of 2020, she has been a mainstay at the women’s tiny home village. With money in her pocket and a roof over her head, Vaughn is excited for what the coming years may hold. She’s currently laying the groundwork for a business of her own. “I want to revamp an old herbal products line my first husband and I started,” she said. “I made salves, hair and scalp tonics, medicinals, that sort of thing. Now, what I want to do is something more along the lines of health and beauty aids. It’s a retirement business, and I want to make it fun.” ■ PHOTO COURTESY OF CSG March 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

NATIONAL FEATURE IN HIS NEW BOOK FACES OF HOMELESSNESS, JEFFREY A. WOLIN WANTS TO GIVE VOICES TO THE PEOPLE HE PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEFFREY A. WOLIN Homelessness takes many forms beyond living on the streets. Factors besides mental illness and addiction contribute to the problem. There are homeless veterans; families who were evicted when their residences were foreclosed on; people with sudden medical expenses that insurance didn’t cover. Job loss, divorce, death of a spouse or parent, domestic violence, discrimination based on sexual orientation, lack of affordable housing, etc., all drive homelessness. There are working poor who live in vehicles or tents and work full-time jobs. Most people experiencing homelessness are invisible, living doubled up with friends or family, in shelters, hospitals, or Single Room Occupancy hotels. Jeffrey A. Wolin photographs and interviews a wide swath of this vulnerable population and includes their own words directly on their portraits to dispel our firmly-held stereotypes. Below, he shares what this project means to him. MY CURRENT PHOTO/TEXT SERIES, Faces of Homelessness, endeavors to show a wide range of individuals who are currently experiencing homelessness or have experienced it in the past. There’s been a considerable increase in awareness of this crisis as our society is moving in the direction of shredding our social safety net, making the lives of our most vulnerable fellow citizens that much harder. Like my previous long-term projects, I interview my subjects and include their stories in their own words directly on their portraits. This strategy gives voice to the people I photograph and allows audiences to directly connect stories with faces. Given the sensitive nature of this subject, I don’t just wander the streets to photograph. We don’t need more images of people sleeping on heating grates. Instead, I work with organizations that deal with homelessness every day. I’ve been partnering with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, one of the nation’s most respected non-profits dealing with this crisis. CCH helped introduce me to individuals to photograph and interview, which helps with the issue of informed consent, an essential component of all my work. I strive to establish a relationship of trust with the people I photograph and to portray them with dignity. I’ve learned from CCH and other organizations such as Venice Community Housing and Safe Place for Youth in L.A., that homelessness takes many more forms than living on the streets and that the popular image of all homeless as mentally ill and/or drug addicts is simplistic and often incorrect. It’s important to dispel these stereotypes if solutions to this widespread problem are to be found. In fact, most people experiencing homelessness are invisible: living doubled up with friends and family (around 16,000 kids in Chicago Public Schools lack a permanent address); in short or long-term shelters; in hospitals or SRO’s (Single Room Occupancy hotels). There are homeless veterans; individuals and families who were evicted when their residences were foreclosed on; people who had sudden medical expenses that insurance didn’t cover. Job loss, divorce, death of a spouse or parent, domestic violence, coming out as gay, leaving foster care, lack of affordable housing, etc., all drive homelessness. Several individuals I’ve photographed are working poor, living in their vehicles or in tents, and working full-time jobs. While I was engaged in this long-term series, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Needless to say, it had a rather negative impact on this vulnerable population. Accordingly, I added portraits and stories of several homeless individuals who came down with the virus and lived to tell the tale. I hope my images can contribute to the public discourse about causes and possible solutions to some of the difficult issues surrounding the worldwide homelessness crisis. For more information about Faces of Homelessness, visit https://www.kehrerverlag.com/en/jeffrey-a-wolin-facesof-homelessness-978-3-96900-057-1 ■ Courtesy of International Network of Street Papers I left home at 15 and was brought into Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. They had a rigid structure which has helped me. I take my academics more seriously. Kate, my advocate, always cheered me up; could turn my frown upside down. I had bad self-worth. I was overweight; didn’t want to change as a person; kept to myself; didn’t trust anyone. On May 19, 2018, I began my hormone treatment to transition from female to male and moved out of the group home. I came out in 2017 and everyone was supportive but wouldn’t allow me to get a legal name change or move to a boys’ home. I want to be a classical pop musician and be on Broadway. I enrolled in voice classes to develop my vocal range. I’m currently in Triton College as a freshman studying Arts & Music. My goal is to get a Bachelor’s in Musical Theatre and minor in Voice. I’m currently living at El Rascate, a transitional living shelter in the Puerto Rican Cultural Center. The residents range from 18-24; I’m the baby. Since moving there, I got to connect with really good case managers who helped with my legal name change and gender transition. I am a single mom of 2 boys. My oldest, his name is Juan; he is 4 years old and autistic, but not severe. My other son’s name is Francisco and he is 2. They are my world. I was living in a domestic violence relationship. I was unhappy for 5 or 6 years. I thank God for my kids and for opening my eyes to help me leave that life. Nothing is easy. I became homeless January 2, 2020. Me and my 2 kids sleep in the living room at my mom’s house; we don’t have anywhere else to go. My dad gave me an air mattress. Every night I have to pump it up; I have to put the covers and sheets on, give the kids pillows. Every morning I have to take the air out, fold it back up. My goal now is to go back to work and back to school to study child development. I want to work at day care , save money and get an apartment of my own. It’s been 2 months since I left my husband and moved to my parents’ house. Set new goals for your life, especially if you have kids, to show yourself and your kids that Mommy is able to do it. PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS 8 DENVER VOICE March 2022 I was a troublemaker. I was a gangbanger, doing drugs, hanging with the wrong crowd. I hid it from my parents but my mom caught on. The night I left we had an argument. “What if you get us killed?” I didn’t want to cause any more damage to my family I love my mom and dad. Everyone got along but me. I was gonna commit suicide. I was hanging myself from a bedpost when my younger brother, Danny, came in, stopped me and hugged me. He said, “Don’t go!” I cried with him; took him back to his room. I packed up my stuff in the middle of the night. From that time I was homeless. I was 9. I chose to be a real gangbanger and street person. At the age of 18, I had a kid. I got out of the gang the next year. I told them, “I’m a family man. I’m done with gangbanging.” They whipped my ass. Pistol-whipped me, broke my nose, left me with scars. Most people think homeless live on the streets and are dirty. It doesn’t last forever unless you want it to. It’s beauty and struggle. It’s human. I want to become an advocate for the homeless. After working as an auto and bus mechanic for 20 years, 10 as a union mechanic, I returned to writing. I worked in the family business until it failed in 1992. I was 37. I started living in my car. 80% of my meals the past 20 years have come from dumpsters in part because I refuse to take money from the government because conservatives are always accusing poor people of taking handouts. So I only eat food that society throws away. I also organize 4 different “Food Not Bombs” collectives. They are a global anarchist movement. When I was a working class bus mechanic and a typical American consumer, I would go to a market and buy foods advertisers wanted us to eat and my health was not good. I wasn’t eating healthy food and my budget didn’t allow me to buy more nutritious organic foods rich people could afford. But as a homeless person I discovered eating form dumpsters of wealthy people’s markets like Whole Foods was healthier than the food marketed to the average American consumer. PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS BEING BEING PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS BEING HOMELESS DOESN’T DEFINE ME, SURVIVING IT DOES. HOMELESS DOESN’T DEFINE ME, SURVIVING IT DOES. HOMELESS DOESN’T DEFINE ME, SURVIVING IT DOES. PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS First time I was homeless I was 14 years old. I was kicked out of the house. There were 7 of us kids. I was the oldest. My dad died when I was 6, my mom when I was 12. My mom’s brother took us in but I wouldn’t obey the rules. I’ve had housing on and off since then. I’d heard about Uptown Tent City and I wanted to get totally involved. I got a propane stove and tank and I started cooking for the community. There were about 25 of us under Lawrence viaduct and about 20 under Wilson. We help each other. I got elected mayor of Tent City. I’m homeless but I’m happy. I’m doing what I enjoy doing: helping people. I was a Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class in the U.S. Navy and a 5th generation Native veteran. My great-grandfather served in “Big Red One”, 1st Infantry Division in WWI; he was from Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Tribe in Belcourt, ND. He wasn’t considered a citizen. The U.S. didn’t grant citizenship to Native Americans until 1924. My great-aunt was a WAC in WWII. My greatuncle served in Vietnam. I served at the tail end of Desert Storm/Desert Shield. I served in a confl ict zone in Haiti in 1998. Our family has been in every war since the Revolutionary War. I was sexually assaulted at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego after being roofi ed. I was taken back to my room and endured a trauma that changed my life forever. Everyone on the base started pointing at me— “She’s a liar! She deserved it!” I convinced them to transfer me to a different base. There was an altercation at a bar that triggered my PTSD, and I was wrongfully charged. The Innocence Project intervened, and the case was overturned. I got pregnant with my fi rst son right after I got home. I stayed in San Diego for 6 years after that. My husband was an abusive drunk who tried to kill me on multiple occasions. I moved back to Chicago in 2006. I got into another abusive relationship. Since 2008, we’ve had small bouts of homelessness. I wound up staying with my abusive boyfriend. When we were homeless, we stayed doubled up with friends and family. When I couldn’t stay with friends, I’d call my ex and ask for help with rent, food, rides. I know I shouldn’t have called him—he beat me, stalked me, and tried to kill me. I still have the scars as a reminder that I am not a victim but a survivor. I felt at the time I had no choice. I am a single mom of 3, and my son has special needs and required multiple therapies and tutoring. I fi nally got into the VA system last year. My family was placed in housing by Volunteers of America. Being homeless doesn’t defi ne me, surviving it does. I left New York when 9/11 happened. I wanted to see America. Went from NY to Vegas, started painting on the walls there with Magic Markers. A friend suggested I come to Venice Beach. I’ve drawn my whole life. Got into tattoos. Started to paint here in Venice. An oil painter on the boardwalk taught me painting techniques. I learned different techniques from different artists who shared brush strokes. I’ve slept everywhere from alleys to parking garages to sidewalks. I’ve stayed on friends’ sofas. The community takes care of me. They look at me as a resident who lives outside. Homeless has become a dirty word. It should be a hate crime to use that word. I don’t like the stereotype; we’re not all the same. I’m not a shitty homeless person. I’m an artist. I’ve earned that right. I have my art supplies and my bass guitar and that’s it. I don’t have piles of stuff. I’m not a hoarder. I get canvasses donated and I just paint over them. I paint a lot of clowns. They scare the shit out of kids. Scared me when I was a kid. If I had my own place I’d fi ll every square inch with murals because that’s what my life is: one big painting. PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS PHOTO AND TEXT COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF STREET PAPERS March 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

COMMUNITY PROFILE PHOTO COURTESY OF YOUTH ON RECORD THE YOUTH IS ON RECORD BY CAT EVANS CREATIVE OUTLETS, ART, EXPRESSION, AND SOUL are a few underemphasized, necessary elements of our existence that not everyone has access to. Many are unfamiliar with how to engage with those elements of themselves whatsoever, as our society does not directly cater to or encourage those extracurriculars. Founded in 2008, Denver-based Youth on Record (YOR), a small nonprofit located at 1301 W. 10th Ave., is here to change that. There is little debate regarding the impact creativity has on the youth. In their “About Us” section on youthonrecord. org, YOR immediately informs visitors that “education and art, when integrated under the right framework, are powerful tools toward liberation and equity.” The mission is bigger than a moment. According to their website, YOR offers programs that are “intended to equip young people from historically under-resourced communities with the skills needed to find success in life by advancing their academic success, increasing their economic 10 DENVER VOICE March 2022 opportunities and career skills, and strengthening their community connections and networks.” At Youth on Record, social justice and music production come hand in hand. They teach things like creative writing, alongside historical classes. All classes are integrated into programs for schools with underprivileged students. When YOR started, there were only three staff members. Today, there are about 18. YOR also offers programs outside of school. “FEMpower” is a program for femme-identifying or non-identifying people. “It has a lot to do with social justice issues, how to be heard,” said Jelie Jones, a teacher at YOR. An artist and musician herself, Jones’ work is splashed all over the Denver music scene — performing live sets with collaborators, producing beats, running an educational YouTube channel on beat making — going so far as to have performed her own TedTalk. She is a specific type of creative who has found success in her own journey through collaboration and outreach. “Open Lab” is another of the many programs Youth on Record offers. As Jones explained, “Youth can get studio sessions, first come, first served. They really learn what it’s like to be in the booth.” According to Jones, self-mastery and control are key components in production rates and ability. The program teaches students how to mix and master their songs. The program also offers guitar lessons and access to Ableton, a complex, pricey tool considered a staple software in music production. Ableton Live retails at a base price of $749 for six months. “We do Ableton live workshops, how to make your drums bounce etc.,” said Jones. YOR also allows and encourages people to collaborate while they are working on their own forms of art. “They can PHOTO COURTESY OF YOUTH ON RECORD sit anywhere in the space and be cozy while they chill, vibe and get feedback from us directly,” said Jones. “There are always activities running simultaneously.” Schools initiate the contract with Youth on Record, and then they send a teaching artist out to middle schools or high schools two to three times per week. YOR has structures focused on podcasting, as well. Podcasting is a lot of different components, and Youth on Record helps with production, release, and recording, along with mixing/mastering the podcast audio. That is one of Jones’ specialties with the organization. There is a major internship focus through Denver Public Schools. Currently, there are four interns from CU Denver that work for Youth on Record. These are paid internships, and UCD interns are given a $500 stipend per month. PAGE TITLE “Making sure everyone gets paid is what is important to having young people show up,” Jones emphasized. “When they hit 14, they’re able to go to work. It’s important that they can leave that job and contribute with us at Youth on Record as there is an opportunity to get paid there.” YOR pays young producers to use their beats non-exclusively on podcasts. Speaking about the staff, Jones noted there is little room for fault-finding or underwhelming passion with the curated lineup of staff members. “We have great teachers. A lot of teachers. We all learn from each other, and that’s the best part about a team. Sometimes there’s a weak link on the team – that’s not the case here. There are no weak links.” There is heavy emphasis on communication with children. Jones believes that to bridge gaps, adults need to work to engage with the youth. “A lot of teachers lose their cool, and the kids look at them funny for that. It’s a problem I noticed in school. The teachers didn’t know how to communicate with us. They showed their emotions in a negative way, and we knew they were there only for the money.” Jones is firm in her approach with the students and their need for genuine connection and comfort to create high-impact dynamics between teachers and students. Before they even begin any class, the teachers check in with the students to see where they are mentally and emotionally — using universally identifiable signs like emojis to show where they are emotionally on any given day. There are various tactics used by teachers to simply check on students to say how are you doing? A strategy YOR deems vital. A lot of times, the trust barrier between student and teacher is ignored. Youth on Record prioritizes transparency and ease to ensure each student is comfortable with the level of engagement for their chosen program. A student needs to be able to feel like they can express themselves. Shining a light on that barrier that can exist between students and authority figures, Jones explained, “It’s important for them to know [they can express themselves] because often, they are targets.” Jones teaches audio and anything to do with beat making. “I float around a lot. You want to learn to make beats? I can show you to make beats. Ableton, Pro Tools, Fruity Loops, and so on.” Additionally, she teaches podcasting, which involves mixing vocals. “It’s similar to hip hop but without the beat,” said Jones. She also teaches students how to record, edit, and distribute it. These programs exist, like any other regular class inside of schools, and are worth credits for graduation. YOR has found much success in integrating into these spaces filled with the next generation. To learn more about YOR, or their successes and motivations moving forward, visit their website youthonrecord.org. ■ HABEEL HARNEY EMPTY FRUSTRATION Fill me up with your hate to what consumes you Picking out the size of magnitude you want me to injest You place me infront of you like a prize possession you about to accomplish Find the right size hose to make sure no hate leaks out Connect them why dont you and fasten those bolts nice and tight Does everything look right in your line of sight Now double check and make sure I am the right one before you begin Conspire with all that will help keeping your obsession contained There you are ready turn your valves of succession on Fill my space with your hatred you adapted The hissing sound makes approval to your ears it’s working But the silence soon brings your disapproval That my space is filled with your hatred to soon for me to be you WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP STACY BOOKER HAIKU i’ve no emotions not sure why this is the case oops! some just slipped thru. 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org PHOTO COURTESY OF YOUTH ON RECORD March 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS SELF, WHY DO THEY HOLD YOUR PAST AGAINST YOU? BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Foot warmers, hand warmers RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA SELF, why do they hold onto your past, just to make you look bad? They make you the joke of the party, but let me tell you, Self, they are the only ones to really suffer! Self, if you have truly changed, then you have your power. The power to know your higher power, who sees all. Self, you don’t have to argue with someone who just wants to hurt you. Other people in pain like to pass it on. So, Self, just pray for them when they attack you. Self, it doesn’t matter if it is family or a close friend. If you know Self’s true worth and work hard to find Self, then you will not let your past be used as a weapon against you. Let the knowledge of self-change be your strength. Self can choose how much time to spend around them. Self must always choose Self first. When others TRY and hurt you, you should become the bigger person and know they are just in pain. Don’t take on their pain, Self, you are stronger and better than that! So, Self, please think about it before you take on their ways of hurting you. Only you have the power to stop others from holding your past against you! Don’t let others stop you from your truth! You have changed, so claim it. ■ GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: 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. 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 Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office SPRING WISH LIST FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE March 2022 EVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COLORADO DRAGON BOAT FILM FESTIVAL Founded in 2016, this four-day festival will feature in-person film screenings, community conversations, and special events celebrating the power of filmmaking within Asian communities. WHEN: Mar 3 – Mar 6 COST: $12 for Denver Film Society members; $15 for non-members. Prices for special events vary. WHERE: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax INFO: denverfilm.org COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 COLFAX ART CRAWL: MARDI GRAS Join 40 West Arts District for a free, family-friendly Mardi Gras street party. Event to include a traveling brass band, DIY crafts, beads, face painting, new exhibitions, and more. Costumes are encouraged! WHEN: Mar 4, 6 – 9 p.m. WHERE: 40 West Arts District, 1560 Teller St. COST: Free INFO: 40westarts.org FRIDAY MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION A regular meditation practice can help you cultivate kindness and inner peace—two things we desperately need in these stressful times. Each class will include instruction on some mindfulness themes, followed by 30 minutes of practice. All are welcome! WHEN: Mar 4, 11, 18, 25, 10 – 10:45 a.m. WHERE: Online COST: Free; registration required INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming ACROSS 1. Close to closed 5. Accomplishment 9. Buck’s mate 12. Chops fi nely, as potatoes 14. Knight’s “suit” 16. Down with the fl u 17. Magic word 19. ___ City (computer game) MUSIC IN THE GALLERIES: EL SISTEMA COLORADO Complementing the Museum’s exhibition Clyfford Still, Art, and the Young Mind, this event will feature young musicians from El Sistema Colorado, an organization that empowers students from some of Denver’s lowest income communities by offering immersive music training and vital life skills. Performances will take place at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. WHEN: Mar 13, 1 – 3 p.m. COST: Free with museum admission, $6 – $10 WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. INFO: clyffordstillmuseum.org LECTURE: INNOVATIVE PRINTS BY VIENNESE ARTISTS Early 20th century Austrian printmakers created some of the most innovative images of their era. While less famous than Gustav Klimt’s paintings and the commercial designs of Josef Hoffmann, the prints of these and other Secession artists were equally groundbreaking and infl uential to the world of printmaking. WHEN: Mar 23, 6 p.m. COST: $12 for members; $15 for non-members. Visit site for in-person option as well. WHERE: Online INFO: kirklandmuseum.org 20. On-call device 21. Scoundrels 23. Carbon compound 25. Lifesaver 26. Tear-secreting 30. Manatee 33. Have ___ at 34. Beast of burden 36. Steal 37. Zeals 39. Had a meal 40. Behind schedule 41. “Smart” ones 43. Glove material 46. Roofi ng material 47. ___ and Rescue 49. Divination 51. Medical breakthrough 52. “No problem!” 53. Belgrade residents 57. Yes or no follower 61. “Much ___ About Nothing” 62. ___ concertos 64. Neon, e.g. 65. English exam component, oft en 66. Forbidden 67. Mime pair 68. Cassette contents 69. More or ___ DOWN 1. Kuwaiti, e.g. 2. Be in accord 3. Farm division 4. Th e Grim ___ 5. Beanie Babies, e.g. 6. Notable times 7. Early pulpit 8. Synagogue scrolls 9. Become detached from one’s surroundings 10. Assortment 11. Shade trees 13. Picturesque 15. Indian queens (Var.) 18. Fragrance 22. Southern speech feature 24. Spiritual leaders 26. Volcanic outfl ows 27. Catlike 28. Stumble upon 29. Abate 31. Kind of nerve 32. Tiny 35. Lecherous looks 38. Use elbow grease 42. Manuscript copyist 44. Extinguish 45. Digital copy of a document 48. Newspaper publisher William Raldoph ___ 50. Kind of tea 53. Stuffi ng ingredient 54. Wax-coated cheese 55. Astronaut’s org. 56. Ginger cookie 58. Bumpkin 59. God of love 60. Th ey’re infl atable 63. Turn red, perhaps March 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 CHFA Direct Effect Anschutz Family Foundation $1,000-$4,999 Cranaleith Foundation, Inc BNSF Railway Foundation Jerry Conover Bright Funds Jill Haug Key Renter Property Management Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. 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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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org March 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE KEEPING THEIR MEMORIES ALIVE COLORADO COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS TALKS ABOUT ANNUAL MEMORIAL VIGIL GIVING COMFORT QUIL TO MARSHALL VICTIMS PAGE 6 PAGE 8 PEDESTRIAN DIGNITY LOCAL ORGANIZATION RAISES AWARENESS FOR THOSE WHOSE PRIMARY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION IS WALKING PAGE 4 MEDIA LITERACY MATTERS STATE REPRESENTATIVE LISA CUTTER EXPLAINS WHY DISINFORMATION IS A DANGEROUS TACTIC PAGE 3 HOPE ON WHEELS HOW SKATEBOARDS ARE BRINGING TOGETHER INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 FEBRUARY 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 2 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: RYAN PRYOR HOLDS UP HIS QUILT TOP HE MADE THAT HE IS DONATING TO THE VICTIMS OF THE MARSHALL FIRE. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL

EDITOR’S NOTE THE CONTINUED ACRIMONY over people’s vaccination status and division over political affiliations has kept much of our focus on the ugly side of human behavior. Meanwhile, members of our ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR community are in pain caused by the horrific Marshall Fire and the latest shooting spree that killed five of our neighbors. We cannot ignore the darkness or what causes it. At the same time, we must not forget there are more benevolent people in the world than there are evil. That’s why, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we are highlighting the words, actions, and creative expression of those whose compassion and caring are making things more tolerable. For this issue, we asked Denver VOICE vendors to share the nicest thing someone did for them over the past two years. Also in this issue, we are introduced to local organizations like the Arapahoe County Quilters and Pedestrian Dignity, whose efforts prove others are rallying to improve the lives of their fellow humans. One of the most meaningful traditions honoring those who died while experiencing housing instability is the annual vigil hosted by the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. For many, this vigil is the only memorial acknowledging these individuals. You can read more about the vigil in Giles Clasen’s interview with the Coalition’s Cathy Alderman. You will also see the Valentine’s Day-themed illustrations created by Denver VOICE Vendors Gigi Galen and Lando Allen. Valentine’s Day may be a commercialized holiday, but it’s also a day when some of us celebrate those friendships and relationships that make our hearts swell. Right now, many of the people we hold most dear are hurting. We may not have the financial or material means to alleviate that pain, but rather than sit back and feel helpless, we can find ways to make their lives a little easier, and I hope the people and work covered in this issue are a reminder that by taking action, good is possible. ■ February CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. ADRIAN MICHAEL is a Denver-based photographer who specializes in editorial, portraiture, documentary and street photography. He’s been creating images for over 15 years and has a passion for capturing the true essence of people. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE 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 Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Lando Allen Giles Clasen Cat Evans Gigi Galen 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. Adrian Michael WRITERS John Alexander Lando Allen Giles Clasen Cat Evans Raelene Johnson Adrian Michael Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Chris Boulanger, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary 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. 2 DENVER VOICE February 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY MEDIA LITERACY IN A CHANGING INFORMATION LANDSCAPE BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE LISA CUTTER Editor’s Note: I recently asked State Representative Lisa Cutter to write about media literacy, a subject about which she is passionate. In 2019, Cutter co-sponsored HB1901110, and in 2021 co-sponsored HB21-1103, both of which turn a spotlight onto media literacy and why it matters. ON DEC. 4, 2016, Edgar M. Welch, a 28-year-old from North Carolina, arrived at the Comet Ping Pong pizzeria in Washington, D.C. with a military-style rifle and a handgun. He fired the rifle inside the pizzeria, thankfully hurting no one, and eventually surrendered. Because of a conspiracy theory perpetuated by conservative journalists aligned with alt-right media outlets, Welch believed there was a human trafficking and child sex ring run by high-ranking officials of the Democratic party. The shooting did not put the theory to rest. Purveyors of the theory pointed to the mainstream media as conspirators of a coverup to protect what they said was a crime ring and attempted to link the pizza shop’s branding to satanism. This is an example of disinformation – the deliberate dissemination and promotion of false information. Over the past several years, disinformation has been particularly harmful in the areas of election security, pushing anti-science agendas broadly, and specifically, pushing anti-vaccination information. For example, Russia has used Twitter trolls to fuel the anti-vaccination debate in the U.S., and China stepped up its own efforts attacking the U.S.-based COVID-19 vaccines. In addition to the proliferation of misinformation campaigns, political leaders have claimed that there is such thing as fake news in order to diminish trust, and credible media outlets have experienced significant cuts in newsrooms and distribution. To compound this, there is no barrier to entry in online reporting. Anyone can set up a website and write articles, claiming legitimacy. This has all served to create an environment where disinformation can thrive; preventing us from working together to solve the real problems facing our society. Hence the need for a population well-versed in media literacy has become increasingly critical. Media literacy works to prevent the spread of misinformation on two different fronts: the sharer and the reader. Individuals particularly on social media, have a responsibility. People trust the information they receive from their friends more than from other sources, so individuals can have a huge impact by only sharing information that they are certain is factually accurate. But how does someone know they are sharing credible information? Making a practice to only consume media from respected outlets is the first step. There are many ways to evaluate media, including reviewing their editorial and ethics policies (you should be able to locate this information for most major outlets). In addition, there are some excellent tools online that measure both the factual accuracy of most top-tier news outlets and also their left- or right-leaning bias. Ad Fontes Media and AllSides Media publish such tools, and it’s easy to find them in an online search. Searching for other stories on a subject can help determine if other, credible news sources are reporting on it the same way. And because we are all predisposed to believe stories or headlines that are in alignment with our own perspective, it can be incredibly valuable to be aware of your personal bias. The study of media literacy also helps people understand the difference between fact and opinion. In this era of 24/7 cable news, it is sometimes difficult to remember that a panel of pundits discussing a topic for 15 minutes is not news, it is their opinion of the news. Widespread access to the internet has completely sharing information, transformed how we as a society communicate, learn, act, and – perhaps most importantly – react to the changing world around us. A few decades ago, there was not such a limitless reservoir of information to draw on. Access to news, and that claiming to be news, is unfettered and unfiltered. But we still have the power to choose both what information we take in, and what we choose to share back out to our family, friends, and colleagues. Media literacy can help inform this power. ■ LISA CUTTER is a Colorado state representative. She advocates for food access, media literacy, first amendment protections, zero waste, wildfire response, education, and mental healthcare in order to protect our planet, our people, and our democracy. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. February 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

COMMUNITY PROFILE PEDESTRIAN DIGNITY BY CAT EVANS JONATHAN STALLS SPENT 242 DAYS walking across the United States; he now refers to himself as a “walking artist.” Amongst many endeavors, Stalls created a project called Pedestrian Dignity. Pedestrian Dignity is a platform designed to allow everyday people to document and share their experiences operating as pedestrians. There are many fundamental flaws in sidewalks, crosswalks, and accessibility overall, and often, these get overlooked by the general public, making functional needs harder to meet, particularly for people who are handicapped. Stalls, a huge believer in collaboration and unity, believed that togetherness was the only true solution to disrupt apathy toward such important human matters. “I believe in co-creation more than anything,” he said. Pedestrian Dignity exists as a “raw, unfiltered storytelling/ educational/awareness, built around the lived experience.” The education is hyper-focused on people who have no choice but to commute by foot or wheelchair, with an emphasis on the latter. “All the imagery we see, all the lights, all the signals, all the things are the able-bodied person. It’s so important that I use the terms walking/rolling, moving in an unhurried way, and so on,” said Stalls, who through travel and observation, found it apparent there was a huge gap between the streetlevel experience and local government support. “How are our public transportation departments caring for us?” There is much to be documented regarding the lack of support for people who are on foot and even less accommodation for people who are forced to be in a wheelchair. As you walk down Colfax or Broadway, two main, active, huge streets in the Denver Metro Area, you won’t find a single block without the need for upkeep and alterations. Sidewalks have major fractures, certain areas are without ramps from one sidewalk to another, and so on. On some streets, there isn’t even a sidewalk. Pedestrian Dignity has opened a portal of data to tap into for people directly witnessing/experiencing mobility negligence to submit their own findings by sharing publicly on all major social media platforms. The distance between knowing that an issue exists and feeling that a genuine injustice is occurring is the exact bridge Stalls is trying to gap. “We work with local accessibility groups and have them co-host an experience that would have decision-makers move in a wheelchair,” Stalls said. The hope is that people who otherwise would never understand the difficulty of getting from A to B, without the luxury of a vehicle would really see what it’s like “in these totally hostile, irresponsible corridors, intersections.” From his view, apathy shed toward something so crucial exists heavily from a lack of experience. “Moving from a conceptual, theoretical separation into the empathy brain. The heart brain. Like, okay, now I’m out here, and I’m witnessing someone trying to ride this bus during a snowstorm. I’m in proximity to this grandma with groceries waiting for a bus that is 20 minutes late. Most importantly, the physical element being I feel this. I feel the wet spray on Colorado Boulevard as I’m walking down the street. I know because I’ve lived it,” Stalls said. Connecting those two realms is necessary for genuine empathy. Communicating with the City is no easy task but one the project takes on hard-headed. Multiple walks with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) have been organized, and many conversations have been had. Sometimes there is progress, and other times, crickets. Stalls is familiar with the action versus word but is resilient with accountability. “You say you are for a certain thing, but until agency and integration are applied in everyday decisions that disrupt conversations only focusing on motor vehicles, we will continue down the same broken path,” Stalls said. The greater awareness the Pedestrian Dignity community can create, the more pressure the City faces to respond. On a walk with the Colorado State Department, Stalls called out CDOT’s logo for lack of pedestrian inclusion on their updated version. “They say, ‘it’s just a logo.’ No, it’s not just a logo. It’s a brand,” he said. “The current logo shows a road going through a mountain and an airplane — nobody on foot whatsoever. You are communicating in 2021 that you only focus on airplanes and cars as a form of transportation in your logo, publicly branding that there are no people who walk or use public transportation.” Car-centric language and imagery are viewed by Stalls as crucial barriers between visibility and social awareness of street conditions for pedestrians. According to Stalls, there is an air of righteousness in today’s younger generation. With content creation and rapid relay used as tools to influence change and encourage high engagement from younger people, the knowledge of public JONATHAN STALLS OF PEDESTRIAN DIGNITY. CREDIT: CAT EVANS error and room for improvement grows rapidly. “What I’m loving is that young people who never saw it as a space they could organize in, are jumping in, taking JONATHAN STALLS OF PEDESTRIAN DIGNITY. CREDIT: CAT EVANS it to their classes, making it their capstone project, considering urban planning as a career — they’re tangibly weaving their colleagues, teachers, classes, future career framing around this — that is exciting to me,” Stalls emphasized, acknowledging a tangible growth regarding exposure and visibility of pedestrian awareness in younger communities. Stalls is fully aware of the time it will take to make a difference. Each move has to do with raising public awareness, a struggle that will be long and uphill. The lack of support generates an “angst” that encourages Stalls and his collaborators to continue marching forward, creating content, sharing stories, and tapping the shoulder of the City whenever they can get the time of day. When Stalls hosts a walk with City workers, he focuses on dehumanization and the need to get back to each other. “Physically, you are next to the director of the Colorado Department of Transportation. There are so many benefits of us moving together that help us to find each other again. It’s not just about devastation, it’s about healing,” he said. The road to impact will be, ironically, long and bumpy with many progressions, inclines, and plateaus along the way. The more knowledgeable people are about the true conditions of the City-kept streets, the more pressure can be applied to local council members and decision-makers to truly make a difference for those most in need. Pedestrian Dignity has set up its feed inside almost every social media platform: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok with the handle @pedestriandignity — all submissions highlighting spaces in need of pedestrian focus. For those who have the desire to participate, all forms of support and contributions are welcome. ■ 4 DENVER VOICE February 2022 WINTER WISH LIST Q A NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks 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 ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Over the past two years, what was the nicest thing someone did for you? JOHN ALEXANDER When I was a young kid growing up, I was always learning about something. It started with good ole home teaching, followed by school, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, the streets, etc. But no matter where or what I was learning, my parents always made sure that my learning was in balance with something about God. One of the things I was taught about God is that He gave us all gifts, and the most valuable gift of all is the gift of life. About two years ago, I found myself in a situation where I was about to have that gift taken away. I had a double stroke, blood clots, and I was minutes away from a massive heart attack. I was in the hospital for three months, and I was on my deathbed for the first two weeks. I had met a person before this happened, and with God’s help and guidance and the actions this person took, my life was saved. The gift from God was given back to me, which is the nicest thing anyone did for me. LANDO ALLEN The nicest thing someone did for me was to buy me some new shoes. They had seen my shoes were falling apart. I would love to thank them for that and hope they will see this in the VOICE. It’s the small things that count! RAELENE JOHNSON The nicest thing was when a woman, who after years of knowing me, offered to write my life story free of charge. She continues to work on it. All she asked is that I help others, which is no problem at all. JERRY ROSEN (Denver VOICE Vendor of the Year for 2021) The nicest thing someone did for me was give me $100 for being the vendor of the year. Also, I was given a plaque. That really made my day! I enjoy working for the VOICE very much and appreciate the money and plaque. I thought it was the most wonderful thing that could happen to me. 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. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. February 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY FEATURE ROSE RODRIGUEZ DISPLAYS THE QUILT SHE MADE AND IS DONATING TO THE VICTIMS OF THE MARSHALL FIRE. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL TERESA BARBAGALLO STANDS OUTSIDE OF TREELOTTA FABRIC AND CRAFT STUDIO, A DROP-OFF LOCATION FOR QUILTS BEING DONATED TO VICTIMS OF THE MARSHALL FIRE. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL QUILTERS PROVIDE COMFORT TO VICTIMS OF MARSHALL FIRE BY ADRIAN MICHAEL WHEN THE MARSHALL FIRE DEVASTATED sections of Boulder and Louisville, the tragedy was instantly met with compassion from people in the area. “When we heard about the fire, we felt helpless and felt like we were called to help,” said Jenn Dietz, the president of Arapahoe County Quilters. “Nothing helps trauma more than being surrounded by a strong community.” Arapahoe County Quilters was founded in 1986 to bring quilters together to do charitable work within the community. A STACK OF DONATED QUILTS ARE READY TO BE PACKED AND SENT TO THE VICTIMS OF THE MARSHALL FIRE IN BOULDER AND LOUISVILLE AREAS. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL 6 DENVER VOICE February 2022 COMMUNITY FEATURE QUILTERS SEW QUILTS AT TREELOTTA. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL SHARON OSBORNE STANDS NEXT TO A QUILT SHE MADE AND IS DONATING TO THE VICTIMS OF THE MARSHALL FIRE. “I HOPE THIS BRINGS COMFORT FOR THOSE WHO LOST THEIR HOMES” STATES OSBORNE. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL They always look for opportunities to help those in need, and the Marshall Fire inspired them to action. Many members turned to Dietz, wondering how they could help, and she told them, “Start by utilizing your quilting talents.” Working with local churches, ACQ has donated more than 100 quilts to the fire victims. They are also gathering other essential items to donate. “We’ll continue to collect and donate quilts as long as there is a need,” explained Dietz. Englewood Colo-based Treelotta Fabric & Craft Studio is partnering with ACQ to serve as a donation center for the quilts. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to assist,” said the fabric store’s owner Teresa Barbagallo. Quilts may not seem like the first priority for fire victims, but local quilters and members of ACQ Ryan Pryor and his wife Rose Rodriguez see a lot of value in these handmade items. “These quilts are going to people who lost pretty much everything,” explained Pryor. “They are potentially among the first items to help start the rebuilding process.” According to Rodriguez, “Every person who receives a quilt is so appreciative! The quilts are extremely important, and there is a strong connection with a lot of energy in them.” Upon hearing about the fire, ACQ member Sharon Osborne donated one of the quilts she made. “I wanted to help immediately, and I hope this brings some comfort for those who lost their homes.” The Marshall Fire, which destroyed more than 1,000 homes and caused an estimated $500M in damages, has left the community with the daunting task of rebuilding. Dietz hopes to continue providing support to the victims of the fire and plans to reach as many people as she can. “It would be awesome to give one quilt to every family” states Dietz, “It may be a heavy lift, but every bit helps.” ■ THE INSIDE OF TREELOTTA. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL February 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN KEEPING THEIR MEMORIES ALIVE: An interview with Cathy Alderman BY GILES CLASEN Cathy Alderman, chief communications and public policy officer for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, helps organize the annual “We Will Remember Homeless Persons’ Memorial Vigil. After the event, she spoke with the Denver VOICE. Following is the interview, which has been edited for clarity and length. WHY IS THE VIGIL IMPORTANT EACH YEAR? Every year, we honor those who have passed away in the Denver Metro area. We hold the event on the solstice because that’s the longest night that those who are forced to sleep outside are going to be enduring the nighttime. This year, we honored 269 names, and that was not even the full list because we had several people give us names of people they know who have passed, so that number was well over 270 people. We believe the vigil is important because many of these people would otherwise not have a service and like their lives, their deaths would otherwise go unnoticed. We also believe it is a really important community event to make sure everyone is aware of the struggles and dangers for those experiencing homelessness, and that we can bring some community support and advocacy for homelessness resolution. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN HOW DOES THE MEMORIAL IMPACT YOU EACH YEAR? I find the event to be very somber. It is impactful to stand together in community and acknowledge how many people without homes have passed away. It’s a little bit of a double-edged sword. We are doing something that I believe is absolutely right to do. At the same time, it weighs very heavily on my heart that we have to do it. IT SEEMS THE INTEREST FROM MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA FLUCTUATES FROM YEAR TO YEAR. HOW DOES THAT IMPACT THE EVENT? The media is kind of a mixed attendee at these events. Sometimes, the visual aspect of people coming together, holding candles, and speaking together sometimes draws more interest. It is a bit discouraging to report because we’re seeing increases in the number of people who pass every year. We’re seeing increases in the number of people experiencing homelessness every year. But it is an important story to tell. We’re also not able to talk as broadly about the successes [we have in addressing the needs of those experiencing homelessness], or what is working for those people we aren’t honoring on that night. 8 DENVER VOICE February 2022 LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN We have seen a lot of progress with the City of Denver in terms of making investments and creating partnerships for homelessness resolution that are very encouraging. I point to a lot of the things that we did during the COVID response, including changing shelters from checking in at night and checking out in the morning, to 24/7 access. That has been lifesaving for a lot of people because they’re not having to go from place to place for different services; they can get all their services in one spot. That is stabilizing, which puts people on a path to housing resolution. We have also seen efforts like the Social Impact Bond that allow us to expand those things that we know work: housing with supportive services, really intensive engagement with people on the street, and other efforts. We do still see plenty of people sleeping outside, too many people accessing shelters, and too many people dying on the streets. We just have to ramp all of these efforts up and bring them to scale so that we’re not losing more people next year than we lost this year. HOW HAS COVID-19 IMPACTED THE COUNT FOR THIS YEAR’S VIGIL? We are aware of 12 lives [of people experiencing homelessness], whose deaths are tied directly to COVID. There have been more people that have died due to other causes where COVID was maybe the secondary cause. It’s not what we were expecting two years ago. We were really fearful that we were going to lose a lot more of our community members who are unhoused due to COVID. They are vulnerable because of where they sleep and because of their pre-existing health conditions. Some of the measures we put in place have saved lives — especially the efforts to get people vaccinated and into protective action hotel rooms. That being said, we know that people who are experiencing homelessness are at higher risk, especially when they’re staying in shelters. Staying in congregate settings — sharing air, restroom facilities, and food eating spaces — all of that creates higher risks for this particular virus. HOW HAS THE STRAIN ON HOSPITALS DUE TO THE PANDEMIC IMPACTED THE CARE THAT INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS RECEIVE? I haven’t seen any data, but I can certainly say we speak with our hospital partners all the time. They are under enormous pressure. In the past, they may otherwise have been able to hold someone [who is experiencing homelessness] for longer before releasing them. Hospitals just don’t have that option now, and there are just so few places for people to be released to — especially if they have COVID. HOW DOES DRUG USE PLAY INTO THE NUMBER OF DEATHS WE SEE EACH YEAR? Opioids continue to play into the number of people who have died. We’re seeing a higher number of overdoses across all populations. We have to remember that a lot of people experiencing homelessness who use substances or have substance use disorders are doing so for very different reasons than their housed counterparts. Being unhoused is such a struggle. It’s so traumatic, it’s so dangerous on the streets that sometimes, substances are the only thing people kind of can really lean into to deal with the experiences. Also, because they are living on the streets, the unhoused are much more vulnerable to substance distributors and predators just because they’re already struggling so hard. People who are selling and distributing drugs will find a population of people living in an encampment, already struggling with trauma, mental health, and physical health issues, and target them. HOW DO FAMILY DYNAMICS PLAY INTO THE CAUSE OF HOMELESSNESS AND DEATH ON THE STREET? A lot of people are in the cycle of homelessness because of something that has happened in their homes. They’ve gone through a divorce, or they’ve lost a family member. Some are the victim of abuse by a family member. Often, they exit that home and are unable to find another one. One of the reasons why we feel it is important to continually hold this event is that when a relationship is broken, families lose track of each other. This is sometimes the only way to kind of close that loop for a lot of family members. Sometimes, this event is the only way a family is aware of a death. We also have family members who say, “I wish my person’s name didn’t appear in your program, I feel like that’s more information than I wanted the public to have.” I think we have a responsibility to make sure that anybody who’s passed away while experiencing homelessness is recognized and honored. MANY WHO ATTEND THE VIGIL EACH YEAR ARE INDIVIDUALS WHO WORK WITH AND SERVE THE HOMELESS COMMUNITY. WHAT DOES THIS EVENT MEAN FOR THEM? Like any other funeral, it’s a combination of feelings. There are those thoughts of, “Could we have done better, was there something else we could have done to prevent this?” There is also the sense that a person’s suffering has ended. I think there are a lot of emotions that people who come into the homeless service community feel when they attend this event. What we try to do is provide the space for people to feel all those things and to say a proper farewell. ■ To learn more about the 2021 We Will Remember memorial vigil, visit https://www.coloradocoalition.org/vigil. February 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY HOPE ON WHEELS: How skateboards are being used to bring Indigenous communities together BY REBECCA BOLLWITT The non-profit Nations Skate Youth fosters bonding through skateboarding in Indigenous communities throughout British Columbia, Alberta and the Yukon. Megaphone spoke to its founder and those working with her. ONE PANEL DISCUSSION in a room of 200 people a few years ago has resulted in hundreds of donated skateboard decks, visits to more than two dozen First Nations communities, positive change in the lives of hundreds of Indigenous youth, and a mission being fulfilled for Rose Archie with the creation of Nations Skate Youth. It all started in 2019, when Archie curated a panel at the Vancouver Skateboard Coalition’s All Aboard Festival on Granville Island. The topic was the impact of skateboarding on education, mental health, and social awareness. Archie shared her story about her own youth, her passion for skateboarding, and how she dealt with the loss of her sister, who died by suicide. Having been born and raised on a reserve in the B.C. Interior, Archie spent her teen years hitch-hiking for hours to the nearest skatepark in order to skateboard. Through this experience she made a connection with the skateboard community that would last the rest of her life. After the panel discussion, many people reached out to Archie personally to thank her and tell her they were going to see a therapist or talk to a counselor. She then made it a mission to normalize talking about mental health issues— particularly in the skateboarding community. “I wanted to go back to the traditional healing ways,” said Archie, who hails from Tsq’escemcl (Canim Lake, B.C.). “I didn’t even know what that was or what it looked like until my friend got me back into the sweat lodge, and I was talking to more Elders that I didn’t talk to before, asking them for guidance.” She says she realized she needed to work on her own mental health, but didn’t know how to do that. The more she talked to other skateboarders, the more she realized she wasn’t the only one suffering and looking for help. “Even I learned about what intergenerational trauma was – words that [for me] have never been said, never been used – and being on my own healing journey, I was able to share with people in an open, respectful manner about what helped me.” The momentum – and the conversation – was growing. That’s when Archie sat down in her living room with fellow skateboarders Joe Buffalo, Dustin Henry, Tristan Henry, and Adam George and developed the idea of Nations Skate Youth – a non-profit society that empowers Indigenous youth through the positive impacts of skateboarding. Launching in early 2020, the group members aimed to share their stories with First Nations youth in a meaningful way. “The disconnection is there where you don’t have a connection with your culture, your language, or your traditions,” Archie said. “But you’re never too old to start learning.” Nations Skate Youth members began to plan trips to Indigenous communities around B.C. and Alberta, where they would give talks, tell their stories, and center the events around skateboarding. “It’s something as little as skateboarding that we’re bringing to a community, but it’s much more than that when we leave,” said Archie. The group started with a GoFundMe fundraising goal of $10,000 to cover travel costs and other expenses, and within 12 hours, it was reached. Within the first year, Nations Skate Youth was able to crowdfund an additional $92,000, which helped the team get to 25 communities. Archie, who is president of Nations Skate Youth, says the support has been overwhelming and rewarding. By engaging with youth and inspiring them, she says she sees an instant impact. The Nations Skate Youth team – currently made up of Archie, Buffalo, and Dustin and Tristan Henry – roll directly into Indigenous communities (where youth feel comfortable and at home), bringing skateboards, clothing, and shoe donations, and even their own ramps if need be. Dustin and Tristan are Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation. Dustin is a professional skateboarder and Tristan has been skateboarding for 15 years. Buffalo is from Maskwacis, Alberta and is a member of the Samson Cree Nation. Skateboarding helped Buffalo overcome the trauma of residential school and he shares his experiences to inspire a new generation of First Nations skateboarders. Starting in a circle, Archie will often burn sage, then make introductions. It’s at that point they have the full attention of the youth. “The communities that we go to, we can really see the statistics of drug and alcohol abuse, struggles with mental health and suicide rates, and how it affects the next generation. A lot of the kids that we see in the communities are still in the foster care system, so when we’re talking with them, they can get easily triggered by what we say, so we have been learning a lot with that part of it,” Archie said. “It’s can be as simple as something like, ‘Oh, did your dad teach you how to skateboard?’ and [the youth] break down and cry because they don’t have a dad raising them. We learned that really early on.” The community’s youth coordinators are usually present during the skateboarding events for support so the team can reach the kids in a sensitive and effective way. Dustin and Tristan Henry share their personal stories of feeling disconnected and how they used to be ashamed to tell people their father was Indigenous. Archie says Buffalo’s story also leaves a big impression on the youth, demonstrating through his own life choices to never give up. “He went to residential school and he fought with drugs and alcohol. Him sobering up and being on the [recovery] path – I think that’s why I was so inspired to have him because he’s now 45 years old. I know the old Joe, I know how far he came to get to where he’s at.” In 2021, in addition to the sharing circles, Archie introduced another element to the team members’ visits: they give the youth their own skateboard to assemble on site. From picking out their deck, to applying the grip tape, the action builds connection. “We’re teaching them something new, because a lot of the time, they haven’t had that opportunity,” she said, adding that skateboarding is an expensive pastime, with most new brandname models costing $200. The team provides skateboard lessons, helping the youth learn to stand up and get comfortable on the boards. It’s also a great social opportunity for kids who have been so isolated due to COVID-19 for the better part of the last two years. “At the end we do a circle talk again and ask how everyone’s doing, and what they loved about the day. It’s awesome. We see the impact right away when they’re like, ‘Oh my God, it was so fun, I learned something new, I was really scared and now I’m not so scared.’ The good thing about skateboarding is that no one’s JENNICA PIERR, 7, LEVI RATCLIF, 5, AND ANGELINA LEARMONTH, 8, TRY SKATEBOARDING FOR THE FIRST TIME. JILL SCHWEBER PHOTOS. FAITH TURNER, 16, LEARNS HOW TO PUT TRUCKS ON A SKATEBOARD WITH ARCHIE IN THE (SEMA:TH) SUMAS FIRST NATION. JILL SCHWEBER PHOTO. 10 DENVER VOICE February 2022 PAGE TITLE telling you what to do. There’s no right there’s no wrong, there’s no one judging you, and I think that is where a lot of the kids like that.” Last summer alone, Nations Skate Youth gave out 300 skateboards, and the organization forged a partnership with a popular international skatewear brand VANS. Archie said the support has been incredibly valuable as sometimes when they arrive in a community, the youth turn up in moccasins, gumboots, or with holes in their shoes. Nations Skate Youth also partners with Squamish Training and Trades Centre in North Vancouver, which constructed ramps to take to Kamloops, B.C. for a visit. The team traveled there immediately after the Lytton, B.C. wildfire that destroyed the entire town. Team members met with youth and families who were camping at the powwow grounds. They were able to skateboard with youth from Lytton and other communities affected by the fires who had lost everything. “I get emotional because to go there and see their smiles… I couldn’t imagine losing everything… and then seeing how a piece of wood with four wheels makes a big difference,” Archie said. She was also able to collect more clothing donations when she told friends about their trip to Lytton, and VANS provided several boxes of clothing and shoes. “One of the ladies from Lytton said thank you because often the youth are forgotten. People take care of the babies, people take care of the Elders. But the youth, they get forgotten.” She and the team also took the time to talk about mental health and the importance of their culture. “I wish I had someone like that when I was a teen to remind me that when I get out there in the real world and leave the reserve, to not be ashamed of who I am and to not be ashamed of the color of my skin. To honor that my parents and my grandparents taught me the language. They taught me the culture and the history. If the younger kids don’t get that and don’t hear that as a reminder, then what we’re all working for can be lost. That’s a huge reminder when we go out.” After numerous events and trips around B.C., Alberta and the Yukon, Archie says the results of their visits are hugely rewarding. “Youth counselors say, ‘We’ve never seen them smile like that before. We’ve never seen their confidence go up in a matter of a day or a couple of hours even.’ That really means a lot, because a lot of us have got on that healing path of what it takes to do this work.” For now, Nations Skate Youth is a passion project for Archie, who has a different full-time job and usually takes vacation time to go on community trips. As a non-profit society, Nations Skate Youth is grateful for donations as every bit helps with travel expenses and supplies. The money is passed on to the youth through programming and equipment. The organization also accepts donations of skateboards. Your used deck that you’ve upgraded from might be the perfect starter board for a youth. “We want to build future leaders. We want to build the youth up so they can start organizing their own skateboard meet-ups. Another big part of what I want to do is work for more skateboard parks and stuff like that in communities that we work closely with, because they do see the impact right away,” Archie said. “People who watch our videos or who follow our journey, they know. They see the work that we’re doing and it brings them joy. It shares the importance that we need to hold their Indigenous youth high and we need to respect and honor them. That’s my big ‘why’ and why I wanted to start something like this.” ■ Courtesy of The Conversation / International Network of Street Papers 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org D. GLORSO ONLY A WISH Oh he wishes he still had A warm body To lay next to It just did the mind Such good Feel the moment Of sighs and giggles Or count the seconds still Radiant heat passes From one body to the other A glorious gift is transferred With only blood pumping From the hearts To the extremities of limbs A life shared by two souls In love is a splendid mindset Now quietly the lady’s breath Slowly warms the man’s back Aroma soft and clean He can feel her hair Brushing his shoulders wide Sending tingles through to his heart All the way to his toes Won’t you please comeback Just for the feelings Love gives And the scent of beauties missed No more anger Rattles his bones Life is too short And the nights without her Too long Such is the life of an old man Regretful Forgetful And alone BENJAMIN ERIC NELSON OPACITY Strain of the earth To not see snow Like cosmic rebirth Losing control Bringing danger From lack of change A type of weather Now seen strange Leaders have opacity They don’t listen To the cries of the city Lies are given Going backwards Becoming brute force WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP EDWARD CURLEE VISIONS Where does the time run? It’s just you and me And we Agree and disagree We share wine and laugh, We move in and out of rhythms With the greatest of ease. You are my reason to be You are the light with which I see Colors of love in the world. It used to be me, Just me Outside the inner dream, Playing what’s said to be, Sometimes it made the scene Sometimes it just wasn’t me. You are my stability You are the air in which I breathe Moments of magic disbelief. So, where does the time run? Where do those feelings fly, Why won’t this heart stop Beating in and out of rhyme? You are my reason to be You are the light with which I see Colors of love..... February 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS VALENTINES FROM OUR VENDORS Denver VOICE vendors Gigi and Lando created artwork for Valentine’s Day RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA SELF, DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU COULD DO? BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR SELF, DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU COULD OVERCOME? You went through so much and didn’t give up! You survived all kinds of abuse, and now look at you! You overcame death too many times to count. You learned to love Self. You overcame being lost and lonely. You overcame fear that people will hurt you. Do you not know now your past can help others, if you care to help others? Even if no one was there to help you? Did you know you can get help for drugs, alcohol or ____ (fill in the blank with words that work for your struggle )? Did you not know, Self, that you had power over your life? Find your power, only you can do your life! You can do anything you put your mind to. Do your part in your world to make life better! Self, I believe you can DO what is best for Self, and the world! ■ ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI GALEN ILLUSTRATION BY LANDO ALLEN FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE February 2022 EVENTS IN-PERSON STORYTIME Come listen to a handful of stories selected each week. Each story is about 20 minutes— just long enough to keep your little ones engaged and excited. Open to children ages 2-13. WHEN: Feb 2, Feb 9, Feb 16, Feb 23, 11 a.m. WHERE: Tattered Cover Book Store – various locations COST: Free INFO: tatteredcover.com/event COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 FREE DAY AT THE DENVER ART MUSEUM Engage with art, explore onsite activities, and experience exhibitions on view with free admission! Advance ticket reservations are encouraged. WHEN: Feb 8, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. WHERE: Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. BEEKEEPING 101 Curious about beekeeping? Learn everything you need to know to care for your own hive. This event is in person and no registration is required. WHEN: Feb 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. WHERE: The Table Public House, 2190 S Platte River Dr. COST: Free INFO: denverlibrary.org/events ACROSS SELF-CARE WORKSHOP: MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION Excessive or prolonged stress can have negative effects on physical and mental wellbeing and even lead to serious illness. In this workshop, participants will learn about the research behind Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and how to incorporate it into their lives. WHEN: Feb 14, 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. WHERE: Online FREAK TRAIN Held the last Monday of each month, Freak Train has remained Denver’s most unique live entertainment experience for more than 20 years. The fi rst 12 people to sign-up get 5 minutes to do anything they want on stage (well, just about anything). It might be the best 5 minutes of your life; it might be the worst. Either way, there’s free beer! WHEN: Feb 28, 8 p.m. WHERE: Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. COST: $5 INFO: bugtheatre.info COST: Free; advance registration required INFO: denverlibrary.org/events . Big name in mapmaking 5. Aroma 9. Ponzi scheme, e.g. 13. Hodgepodges 15. Teeming 16. Pasty 17. Brazilian dance 18. Aff ectedly creative 19. Pond organism 20. Put together, as IKEA furniture 22. Sovereign state 24. ___ v. Wade 25. Insect commonly called a mosquito eater even though it doesn’t eat mosquitoes 27. Tarzan, e.g. 30. Legal wrong 31. Th e Sail constellation 32. Feeding, as livestock 37. Long-armed primate 39. Load from a lode 40. Tendon 41. Motor home brand named aft er a Native American tribe 43. “Finding ___” (Pixar movie) 44. Arrive 45. Volunteer 47. New York borough 51. Trick taker, oft en 52. In-between states 53. Convert into code 58. Superfood berry 59. Hawaiian tuber 61. Everybody’s opposite 62. Penny 63. Flight data, briefl y 64. Showy fl owers, informally 65. ___ Kringle 66. Bank (on) 67. Formerly, formerly DOWN 1. Civil rights activist Parks 2. “Ah, me!” 3. “___ Island” (2008 Jodie Foster movie) 4. Guard dog breed (Brit.) 5. Kind of hygiene 6. Senior executive position in many agencies and organizations 7. Frequently, in poetry 8. “___ the Fox” (classic fable) 9. Outpouring 10. Ore. neighbor 11. Star in Perseus or a programming language family 12. “A Prayer for Owen ___” 14. Pago Pago’s place 21. London’s Big ___ 23. Chips in 26. Cowbody competition 27. Affi rm 28. Start to scope? 29. Brio 32. Like a latte 33. Roof beam 34. Aware of 35. Roman emperor aft er Claudius 36. Nell ___, 17th-century British actress and mistress of Charles II 38. Small lizard 42. Shore up 45. Amniotic ___ 46. Cake topper 47. “___ is beautiful” 48. Kitchen gadget 49. Muscat native 50. Bye lines? 54. Like a busybody 55. Frost 56. Aims 57. Medical advice, oft en 60. Absorbed, as a cost COST: Free INFO: denverartmuseum.org February 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. 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Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. CLARE’S MINISTRY AT ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. 2nd Ave., dinner at 4pm on Tues. Also offer a change of clothes, toiletries and sleeping bags when available. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.a-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org February 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE VENDOR PROFILE: LARMARQUES SMITH HOW CHAOS BLOOMED NEW IMPROV THEATRE PROVIDES OUTLET FOR CREATIVITY, ENTERTAINMENT, AND INCLUSION PAGE 6 COMMUNITY IS THE SERVICE NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE REOPENS AFTER BEING SHUT DOWN DUE TO PANDEMIC PAGE 8 LEFT BEHIND AFGHAN EVACUEES FEEL LEFT BEHIND AS COLORADO RESETTLEMENT AGENCIES FACE CHALLENGES PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JANUARY 2022 | Vol.27 Issue 1 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: ART: GIGI GALEN

EDITOR’S NOTE IN LATE SEPTEMBER I read a tweet reminding folks it was only three months until Christmas. I like the winter holiday season, but I’ve never been a fan when those countdowns start any sooner than mid-November. After the ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR emotional windburn these past two years have inflicted, however, I was relieved to be reminded that 2021 was coming to a close. And now that we have said goodbye to 2021, many of us are working diligently to honor our New Year’s resolutions. Instead of including an Ask a Vendor question this month about the changes VOICE vendors planned to make for 2022, we went with our vendor Raelene Johnson’s suggestion to have them share their wishes for 2022. We’ve asked vendors about their resolutions more than once in the past, so I appreciate that Johnson wanted to change it up. I prefer the idea of wishes for a new year versus resolutions. It seems to me that a wish may morph from something simple, like good health, to something significant, like the eradication of COVID-19. A resolution seems much more rigid because it requires focus and dedication, and if going to fulfill it, I need to be committed to it and must take action to make it happen — otherwise, it’s meaningless. I do have a resolution, as well as a wish, for 2022. I resolve to be more hopeful and to make more of an effort to see the best in humanity. I can get there if I make an effort to be kinder, more patient, and demonstrate more empathy. I also have a wish, which is that all of us would show more January CONTRIBUTORS GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is an awardwinning freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE 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 ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Cat Evans Sarah Ford Gigi Galen 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 Lando Allen Brian Augustine Osha Bear V. beRt Cat Evans Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen Larmarques Smith 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 compassion, patience, and love for one another. Surely, that’s not too lofty. Whether you have made resolutions, wishes for the New Year, or chose not to do either, here’s to 2022 and the promise this new year holds. ■ 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. 2 DENVER VOICE January 2022 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VENDOR PROFILE my natural tardiness VOICE Vendor Profi le: LARMARQUES SMITH BY LARMARQUES SMITH, DENVER VOICE VENDOR THE PAST TWO YEARS HAVE BEEN THE LONGEST I care to remember. With a worldwide pandemic in effect, it can be hard to recollect notable events of the past two years — like the fact that I LARMARQUES SMITH. CREDIT: SARAH FORD accomplished one of my lifelong dreams: becoming a barista and working in a coffee shop. In the midst of the pandemic, I landed a job working with the Denver VOICE in partnership with a coffee bar in Uptown to give vendors an employment opportunity for those who have been out of the workforce for a minute. The discussions about the partnership started around the time the City of Denver decided to do something about the homeless population during the pandemic. Some of those staying at shelters that had been shut down because of the pandemic were moved to the Western Stock Show Complex to accommodate the social distancing mandate. Despite the shutdown, I began working and started to feel like a regular member of society (whatever that means). It was difficult at first to get into the groove of having a job while staying at the Western Stock Show Complex. No alarm clock, no early morning showers before work, etcetera, coupled with (it’s a flaw I try to combat every day - LOL) made it difficult for me to make it on time to the coffee shop. I managed to pull it together, and with the help of another community organization, Reciprocity, I was able to secure a bike, which ultimately saved my job. It was the week before Independence Day when a good friend of mine and I decided to look into a program that took people who — for whatever reason — were more susceptible to contract COVID-19. The location was a hotel, where everyone was COVID-free in a very controlled environment, provided we take a test and the results were negative. Because my friend and I both are immunocompromised, we thought the test was a good idea and signed up for it just in time for the upcoming holiday. I moved into the hotel later that day after taking the test and worked the coffee shop on the Fourth of July weekend. On Monday morning, my phone wouldn’t stop ringing. Trying to be a responsible employee, I was reluctant to answer. Turns out it was the nurse from the Western Stock Show Complex calling to inform me that I had tested positive for COVID-19. She told me that I needed to stay put, and someone would be there shortly to take me to another quarantine site. Scary! I had to inform my boss as well as fellow employees that I was positive for COVID-19 and would not be at work for a couple of weeks. The most frightening part of this is that I had no signs or symptoms of the virus. I was sent away to another hotel that was designated as a quarantine site for active COVID cases and was told I had to stay on-site at all times. I mean. I couldn’t even go to 7-Eleven, which was right next door. No visitors were allowed at the hotel, and no one was allowed in anyone else’s room at any time for any reason. This lasted about 10 days. During my quarantine, the only symptom I can recall was extreme fatigue which, was odd for me. For being immunocompromised, my immune system was and continues to be in good shape. I’ve been undetectable for several years, and I stay extremely active, but this time, I really felt so tired. One good thing out of my stay at “Chateau COVID Quarantine” is that I got to reconnect with a friend I’d lost contact with over the previous year. He learned he had contracted COVID after being left for dead in a hotel room by his friends. After about 10 days, I received notice that I would be discharged in the next day or two. Relieved I would be able to get back to work, see my friends, and get back to a somewhat normal existence. In the meantime, the coffee shop was shut down for a week and had to be cleaned. All the employees had to take a COVID-19 test, and they had to negative before they could come back to work, myself included. After taking another COVID test, I was able to return to work. I was also able to move back to the hotel for the high-risk group for contracting Coronavirus. Shortly after my quarantine, I made an appointment with my infectious disease doctor, who also happens to be my primary care physician. She wanted to be sure I was well and stayed healthy after surviving Coronavirus. Throughout the past year, working with my medical caseworker, my doctor was able to secure a Section 8 Housing Voucher in an effort to keep me healthy by way of a stable living environment. I can’t say it would have been possible for me to have found safe and stable housing without the coronavirus; Although I still have concerns about the long-lasting effects COVID may have, I’m happy to be housed and healthy. I’m also very thankful for all of the community organizations and partners that made it possible. ■ HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. January 2022 DENVER VOICE 3

NATIONAL STORY KC TENANTS An activist group experiencing the harms of the affordable housing and eviction crisis first-hand offers a model of possibility for fed up tenants worldwide BY ANN-DERRICK GAILLOT Kansas City, smack dab in the US Midwest in a Republican-led state, is often overlooked in the national conversation about the country’s housing crisis. KC Tenants – an organization made up of members of Kansas City’s communities of renters – fights for cooperative housing, social housing, and a dignified response to the city’s housing, eviction, and homelessness crises. Ever since its formation in 2019, it’s made its demands for a better world known through carefully-researched policy proposals as well as direct actions matching the urgency of the issues they’re addressing. Its work offers a model of possibility for fed up tenants worldwide. INSP North America spoke to KC Tenants co-founder Diane Charity. WHEN THE MEMBERS OF KC TENANTS show up together in their yellow shirts, they come boldly proclaiming their demands on their backs: “What we want is safe, accessible, and truly affordable homes.” KC Tenants leader Diane Charity reads the black print to me over the phone from Kansas City, Missouri where the tenants union and advocacy group is based. She emphasizes the last demand with a straightforwardness that has come to define the group’s approach to creating change. “Truly affordable homes doesn’t mean that these out-of-state people that come in and get all this funding to make these affordable houses [that are] cheaply made,” she says. “Hike the rent up every year to the point where it puts us out, which gentrifies our neighborhood, and then they act like they’re doing us a favor.” Rather, KC Tenants, made up of members of the city’s communities of renters, fights for cooperative housing, social housing, and a dignified response to the city’s housing, eviction, and homelessness crises. And ever since its formation in 2019, it’s made its demands for a better world known through carefully-researched policy proposals as well as direct actions matching the urgency of the issues they’re addressing. From leaders chaining themselves to a county courthouse door in an effort to stop eviction court proceedings to confronting city Mayor Quinton Lucas at a protest at City Hall, KC Tenants has never taken it easy on Kansas City’s elected officials. And why would they? Its members experience the harms of the city’s long-standing affordable housing and eviction crisis first-hand on a daily basis. “One of our founding philosophies is that we are the experts on housing,” says Charity, who was a founding member of KC Tenants alongside Founding Director Tara Raghuveer, Board President Tiana Caldwell, and Brandy Granados. “We are the experts because we have the lived experience.” On the day of our interview (18 November 2021), Charity and her fellow KC Tenants members were preparing for the organization’s town hall with the mayor in attendance. That evening, organizers led those gathered at the auditorium of a local school, with hundreds more viewing on Facebook Live. It included an opening song, a panel answering questions on PHOTO COURTESY OF KC TENANTS social housing and the group’s plans for a Housing Trust Fund, and testimony from renters in the audience on their visions for housing in the city. KC Tenants has consistently kept pressure on Lucas to listen to and face the city’s most housing vulnerable residents ever since his election to the office just months after the group was founded. At their dogged insistence, he spent his first night as mayor in the substandard apartment one KC Tenants member lived in with her children, complete with sorely-needed but unprovided repairs and the sounds of gunshots outside. The group’s creative direct action sent a clear message to city officials: Kansas City’s tenants are taking power into their own hands. As in other American cities, renters in Kansas City face rising rents, a dearth of affordable housing, and a general attitude of disdain for the many struggling with housing insecurity and homelessness. But in recent years, by harnessing the power of grassroots organizing, an extensive, months-long research project examining other cities, and unrelenting hope, KC Tenants has managed to achieve big wins for the city’s tenants. These included successfully advocating for the city’s adoption of an historic Tenants Bill of Rights in 2020. “All of these politicians that talked so condescendingly towards it said, ‘We’ll write that ordinance for you and then we’ll get it passed.’ And we said, ‘No, you won’t. You won’t write anything because you don’t live our experience,” remembers Charity about the fight for the Tenants Bill of Rights. In her eyes, the group rejects a local tradition of polite passivity and confrontation avoidance known in the area as ‘Kansas City Nice’. The kind of determination KC Tenants uses to keep public officials engaged and held accountable to their constituents may go against the grain of ‘Kansas City Nice’. However, Charity surmises that sticking to a ‘Kansas City Nice’ attitude does nothing for the fight for truly affordable housing. “We’re saying we’re not taking that BS anymore. We do have rights and we will stand up,” she says. “We’re that beam of light that people are saying, ‘Wow, These people have the nerve to think that they’re going to get the world as it should be instead of surviving the world as it is. And that is what we’re doing. We know it can be better.” Kansas City, smack dab in the Midwest in a Republicanled state, is often overlooked in the national conversation about the US’s housing crisis. And yet the KC Tenants union’s successes and structure — which includes a hotline, a team that researches and crafts policy, a team that organizes tenants unions, and a team that helps tenants fight evictions as well as unfair and illegal housing practices — offers a model of possibility for fed up tenants worldwide. It entered 2021 in high gear, proclaiming the months ahead the Year of the Tenant, beginning with Zero Eviction January, during which the group’s members took direct action to delay more than 900 eviction hearings that month. Then, after months of advocacy and organizing, the group helped win funding for an Office of the Tenant Advocate to enforce the Tenants Bill of Rights in Spring 2021. It ended the year with another major victory: the city council passed an ordinance providing legal counsel to tenants, no matter what their income is. Drafted and pushed by KC Tenants, along with fellow advocacy groups the Heartland Center for Jobs and Freedom and the Missouri Workers Center/Stand Up KC, the historic program is slated to be in place by summer 2022. Now, the union is pushing for an ordinance it drafted for a People’s Housing Trust Fund that calls for the city to divert funding from policing and tax incentives for developers into permanently establishing and maintaining affordable housing. Though many cities already have housing trust funds in place, KC Tenants hopes to establish one with crucial safeguards in place as far as tenant rights and representation in governance, avoiding creating another “a slush fund for developers and property owners,” as the group says in its fund proposal released in June 2021. “ “We can fight for something. We may not get everything, but if we start with housing, that’s a start for us. Then we can go on to the next thing and the next thing,” Charity says. “But if you don’t have a place to lay your head—to actually sleep and then get dressed to go to school and work the next morning— it’s the scariest thing that can ever happen to you, you know? It’s unfathomable that people are doing that.” Though every community has its unique struggles, Charity’s advice for people looking to start their own tenants’ unions is the same. “Give grace. Give grace to whomever you’re speaking with. Listen to them and allow them to tell their story,” she says. “[Whatever] their walk of life, they have that seed of hope in them that things will get better. We spark that seed of hope and it takes us to where we’re trying to get to obtain safe, truly affordable housing that’s accessible for anyone and everyone. Housing is a human right.” ■ Ann-Derrick Gaillot is a freelance journalist and writer based in Missoula, Montana Courtesy of INSP North America / International Network of Street Papers 4 DENVER VOICE January 2022 WINTER 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 BRIAN AUGUSTINE I would like to reconnect with people who were quarantined. To remember that we need to get along. We aren’t treating each other with respect and forgiveness. The anger that is just wrong. Please don’t let your frustrations take over the reality of your life. Oh yeah, I’d also like to win the Powerball. RAELENE JOHNSON I hope I can be helping my fellow worker to help them sell better. I want to help anyone who is lost to get help. If I’m the best person I canb e, then others can see my honesty in wanting to help them. If you help others, you will find your life will be fulfilling. Happy New Year! Be the best you! JERRY ROSEN My wish is to do more sales for the New Year and to do a much better job in many ways. In addition, I wish for better health and to prosper in many ways. ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q What is your wish for 2022? A LANDO ALLEN I wish I could meet some of my goals. For one, I’ve been trying to save money to get my own house. I also am trying to finish getting my music done. I am also trying to sell more papers and make it through the winter. 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. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. January 2022 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE HOW CHAOS BLOOMED BY CAT EVANS SOUTH BROADWAY IS AN EVER-EVOLVING, deeply rooted historical street – essential to the spirit of Denver. Along its length, you will find almost anything you can imagine: a vast array of vintage stores, coffee shops, plant havens, restaurants, and bars — both new and old — where the public can enjoy late nights, early mornings, and everything in between. Among the many emerging businesses calling Broadway their home, there’s one, in particular, you don’t want to miss – Chaos Bloom Theatre. The off-center, quirky Chaos Bloom Theatre, located at 70 S. Broadway, is a creative space where people perform comedic improvisation and can take courses to prepare them for virtually any stage. Chaos opened its doors in mid-2021 and has been firing on all cylinders ever since. This is no ordinary theater, however. Each room at Chaos Bloom, down to its turfcovered bathroom, is done with intention. A customized mural of the Denver skyline rests between the stage and the teaching rooms located at the further end of the building, reminding each passerby of the city in which they are experiencing. This unusual design, detail by detail, was pioneered by one of the four current owners of Chaos Bloom, Amey Goerlich, who within the past year, took creative control. The performing arts deal with major gender disparity within leadership positions, and it is dramatically skewed toward men. The opportunities for a woman to step in, call the shots, and be the face of creative establishments are far and few in between. According to womenarts.org, women “face enormous employment discrimination in the arts and media.” Time will tell how this will shift, but for now, Chaos has handed the reins to a woman with a vision. Goerlich began her theatrical career in 2001 at Upright Citizens Brigade in New York. She performed with them until 2016, when she moved to LA to teach at Westside Comedy. She did that for three years until COVID came and everything shut down in Los Angeles. “I knew I wouldn’t survive off just teaching online,” said Goerlich, explaining why she and her husband were on the hunt for a new opportunity. Serendipitously, Justin Francin, a co-owner at Chaos Bloom, reached out to Goerlich and asked her to come to Denver to be the director of training. The classes Goerlich now offers vary by level/intensity – beginner and onward. A sketch comedy 101 hybrid class costs $125 for six weeks. In the class, sketch comedy basics, include content, editing, script structure, and page to performance transformation. Chaos Bloom also offers various types of training. According to Goerlich, “It’s a different type of training than you can get anywhere else. I built my own curriculum and asked myself questions like how can I make this the most entertaining.” All classes range from $100-$200 and last about six weeks. A full array of their educational offerings can be found on their website, chaosbloom.com. “Given the opportunity to create an entirely new curriculum that was inclusive was a huge opportunity. I don’t think a lot of women in improv get that opportunity.” From the ground up, Goerlich assisted in developing the space that so many would soon call home. For months, CREDIT: CAT EVANS 6 DENVER VOICE January 2022 LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS Goerlich worked for free, along with all other willing bodies that tirelessly pieced everything together until Chaos Bloom opened as the unique space it is today. “The more time I spent here, the more Justin started to see how I could change things on every level,” said Goerlich. With nothing but Additionally, the ongoing pandemic has necessitated a time, amidst a pandemic standstill, Goerlich began organizing finances while shows began happening outside throughout the summer as a sort of preamble to the official opening of the building itself. Improv shows were a roaring success, initially being held in an alley down the block, each night filled with eager observers fresh off the heels of the first COVID lockdown. As a result of her hard work, Goerlich became a co-owner. Two more owners were also included to collaborate and build something new. “We put our very specific skillsets together in order to build what it has become. It’s like a lowgrade Meow Wolf in here,” said Goerlich. Speaking on the impact of COVID and the success of the theater, Goerlich expressed gratitude toward the time that the pandemic provided. “I used the time to organize everything, and we’ve got to a place where it’s a really oiled, maintained machine, and we keep it up.” She is also grateful for the vaccine mandates, as it they have helped to relieve health concerns about a smaller space filled with unfamiliar bodies. “Now I know that when people walk in here, they’re vaccinated. Now I know that everyone will be safe.” need for this sort of entertainment. “I think we have stifled ourselves from laughing because of all these issues going on,” said Goerlich, “We need that release. For me, I have to have that outlet. We all need that outlet.” Most people discover Chaos Bloom Theatre by word of mouth. “We have people in the neighborhood coming in all the time. You rarely see an improviser in the audience, it’s always just random people. Then people become regulars, and they keep coming back and bringing friends.” Every week there are different shows and classes. “Relationsh*t” is a flagship show where the Chaos Bloom players interview someone from the audience about a weird or awkward date that they’ve been on. “Last night we had to turn people away because we were so packed,” said Goerlich. “Every show the audience is engaged with the performers, the space is intimate and immediate and welcoming to all. It’s nice to see people come back out again.” The theater is constantly working toward inclusivity, diversity, and bringing new people in. As Goerlich explained, “We are in schools, we are outside. We are trying to get people on stage where people can be watching and say, ‘Oh, that person is like me.’ There is much emphasis on what voices you can and cannot use as a performer, fine lines as to what is appropriate and what is not. and those expectations do not waver. We’ve got to show people we can do this, and then do it better.” The performers and teachers are nationally trained, ranging from New York to LA, to Chicago – each hub represented. “The improv, the comedy, the sketch – it’s all high level. My curriculum provides the tools for someone to step up and play at high levels,” said Goerlich. This up-and-coming theater has only just begun. The vibe of the room when sitting amongst peers engaging in laughter and relatability is unmatched. For more information on the theater, show times, class scheduling and pricing, visit chaosbloom.com. ■ CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS January 2022 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL STORY KIFLU POURS COFFEE AT NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE. KIFLU SAID HE COMES TO NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE BECAUSE IT HELPS HIM STRETCH HIS SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY PAYMENTS FURTHER. NETWORK ALLOWS HIM TO HAVE A GROUP OF FRIENDS AND A PLACE TO HANG OUT THAT DOESN’T COST HIM ANYTHING. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN COMMUNITY IS THE SERVICE: Network Coffeehouse Reopens After Being Shut Down Due to Pandemic BY GILES CLASEN NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE is built on community. It is a place designed to care for those experiencing homelessness by offering a place to sit together, play cards, share stories, eat some food, and drink coffee. “Network is what I would call a hospitality house,” said Ryan Taylor, director of Network Coffeehouse. “It’s an invitation for folks living on the street, that oftentimes aren’t welcome elsewhere, to experience kinship.” For an organization whose primary service is community, shutting down due to COVID forced them to rethink how to provide to those who relied on them. “People were coming to us pretty quick in March of 2020 and saying they did not have food, so we started coordinating with churches and other agencies to be a food source,” Taylor said. No one was allowed in the building, but every Monday through Saturday, the small nonprofit provided sack lunches. On cold days, they pulled together a hot lunch to serve. “It was a real gift in so many ways because we got to partner with people that we wouldn’t typically partner with,” Taylor said. Network was able to reopen the doors to their coffeehouse in November and is once again serving coffee and comfort to anyone who needs it. Danny, one of Network’s frequent guests before and after the pandemic forced Network to close, said he was happy to be back. “People look down on us, but what they don’t realize is that they’re one step away from being homeless themselves,” Danny said. “This is a place that supports us and doesn’t look down on us. It is important to have that care.” Another guest, Sophrina, said she had been coming to Network for years and missed it during the time it had to be closed. “I’ve been living on the streets since I was 12 because bad things happened to me,” Sophrina said. “There is really nowhere else to go. [Network] gives you hot showers. I like talking with people playing games and coloring the coloring books.” Sophrina then began to cry as she tried to tell friends her homeless encampment had recently been swept by the City of Denver. She lost her phone, tent, blanket, and clothes. She wasn’t sure how she would survive if the weather turned cold before she could replace them. Sophrina was embraced in a hug by Kimberly, another Network guest. They hugged for several minutes until Sophrina was comforted. CASEY TALKS WITH FRIENDS AT NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE. CASEY HAS BEEN COMING TO NETWORK FOR AS LONG AS HE CAN REMEMBER BOTH WHILE HE WAS HOMELESS AND AFTER FINDING PERMANENT HOUSING. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 8 DENVER VOICE January 2022 LOCAL STORY KIMBERLY COMFORTS SOPHRONIA AT NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE. SOPHRONIA HAD LOST ALL OF HER POSSESSIONS DURING A RECENT SWEEP OF A HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT BY DENVER POLICE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Kimberly, who came to Network for the first time after the coffeehouse reopened, shared her story and assured Sophrina that she wasn’t alone. “I ended up kind of homeless and am staying with my nephew,” Kimberly said. “I am trying to make my way to Houston where my daughter lives.” Kimberly came to Denver after her house in Simla, Colo. became infested with mold. She planned to live out of her car until she could deposit her VA disability check. Instead, Kimberly’s car, wallet, and ID were stolen, stranding her in Denver. Kimberly is working on replacing her ID. In the meantime, she comes to Network every day. “This place is great,” Kimberly said. “Having breakfast and cup of coffee and support. There isn’t a lot out there. Having a whole social network is amazing and so important.” While Network was closed, the organization tried to relieve some stress and need by contracting to have a portable toilet in the parking lot available to those living on the streets. “The porta potty company didn’t like us much. Everybody in the company said, ‘We’d rather not work with you,’” Taylor said. At times, the toilet became very dirty from use. Then, during the 2020 protests, the portable toilet was burned to the ground. Losing the toilet to protestors didn’t bother Taylor, other than losing the service the toilet offered. “In the capitalist society, material shit is seen as higher value than a human being because profit comes before people,” Taylor said. “[Society] is often more focused on material possessions being taken or destroyed rather than the root cause of a person’s suffering. We focus on the person here.” A GUEST AT NETWORK COFFEEHOUSE PLUGS HIS PHONE IN TO CHARGE. NETWORK DOESN’T PROVIDE MANY DIRECT SERVICES OR GOODS, JUST SMALL MEALS, COFFEE, AND SHOWERS. BUT THE SUPPORT, THE NETWORK IS THE POINT. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN The new mask mandate that went into effect on November 24 has changed a few things at Network. All volunteers must wear a mask at all times. Guests are invited to wear masks, but like at restaurants, they aren’t required to when eating or drinking. Taylor hopes the mask mandate will slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus and allow places to stay open. According to Casey, Network’s focus on creating an inviting, supportive environment is why he has been a regular for over a decade. He began visiting when he was experiencing homelessness. He has continued to visit even after getting an apartment through Volunteers of America and disability checks through Social Security. “I wish I could work. I wish I had a job and the security that goes with that,” Casey said. “I appreciate that I have this place to come to every day. Without it, it is a lot harder to have friends and have support.” Network doesn’t provide many direct services or goods, just small meals, coffee, and showers. But the support – the network – is the point. “We celebrate when people get housed. We celebrate when people get resourced. We celebrate when people get sober. But we want to see these relationships continue over time, and we want to see people coming back,” Taylor said. To Taylor, it is obvious why Network sees guests return even after they have found permanent housing. “There’s a reason they’re coming back. This is the space that they feel welcome,” Taylor said. “Denver is a landscape where there’s not a lot of welcoming places. The uniqueness of our joint is that we focus primarily pretty much exclusively on the work of relationship.” ■ January 2022 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY manager. Ironically, he adds that his two-year-old daughter was able to get hers through the mail. Siddiqi said he tried going to his case manager’s office to retrieve the documents, but the strategy turned out to be both unsuccessful and expensive. Each trip came with small purchases like a two-way bus fare that Siddiqi said just resulted in more waiting. The same is true of other tasks like shopping and running errands, Siddiqi adds. Every trip eats a little more out of the family’s bottom line. “Now, I call and call and it just seems like no one is ever there,” Siddiqi said. “We’re not the kind of people who ask for or take charity, but they’re all so busy with all of the other people that are coming here that it’s really causing a problem.” One of the logjams was created after President Joe Biden swiftly raised the refugee ceiling to 125,000 per year after former President Donald Trump had lowered it to 15,000 during his last year in office. This increase lifts the ceiling to levels not seen since 1994, according to data from the Migration Policy Institute. However, the funds needed to bolster the stability service pipeline arrived much later than the Afghan evacuees. President Biden signed a bill on December 3 that allocated $7 billion for resettlement programs. States like New York started investing their own funds to help settle the evacuees shortly thereafter despite former Afghan citizens starting to flow into the country in mid-August after the country’s government collapsed. Siddiqi is one of the more than 1,000 evacuees that made it to Colorado so far, according to data from the Colorado Refugee Services Program. Since the state typically accepts three percent of the national resettlement figures, Colorado could welcome another 1,000 evacuees by the end of the year. Maria Farrier, Development Manager at ACC, said many CAPTION: AHMAD SIDDIQI (BACK RIGHT) AND HIS FAMILY IN A PUMPKIN PATCH IN BROOMFIELD, COLORADO. CREDIT: AHMAD SIDDIQI LEFT BEHIND Some Afghan evacuees feel left behind as Colorado resettlement agencies face housing shortages and swelling caseloads BY ROBERT DAVIS AHMAD SIDDIQI, 35, struggles to do nothing. But after his family relocated to Broomfield, Colo from Afghanistan following the government’s collapse in August, it seems that nothing is all he can do these days. After spending nearly two decades as an interpreter connecting U.S. military officials with members of the former Afghan government, Siddiqi says coming to America solved a lot of problems for his family. But, like many of the Afghan evacuees that have already resettled in Colorado, Siddiqi says the warm welcome is quickly fading as Colorado’s initial stability service pipeline struggles to deliver the benefits his family needs to grow roots in their new community. “It gave me a lot of hope to come here to the United States,” Siddiqi said. “But now when I look to the future, it’s kind of opaque.” Siddiqi received a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) from the State Department for his service in Afghanistan. The SIV makes him eligible to receive $500 in monthly federal cash payments as well as health, housing, and food benefits. But accessing these benefits has proven to be harder than Siddiqi initially thought as Colorado’s three resettlement agencies—The International Rescue Committee of Denver (IRC), Lutheran Family Services of the Rocky Mountains (LFS), and the African Community Center of Denver (ACC)—are all face swelling caseloads amid a statewide housing shortage. Resettlement agencies act as liaisons between federal agencies and refugees who qualify for their assistance upon their arrival. They also help people like Siddiqi navigate bureaucratic processes to obtain identification, licenses, and employment. One critical part of their work is to help Afghan evacuees like Siddiqi obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) so they can access additional federal benefits and apply for a federal work permit. However, Siddiqi says he has struggled for more than two months to obtain his SSN from his case resettlement agencies received short notice of the Afghan evacuees’ arrival, which has made it difficult to secure temporary housing for incoming folks. She says ACC is experimenting with a co-hosting model where the agency connects volunteer hosts with Afghan evacuees and their families to help drive down wait times. Private donors have also helped to secure some housing arrangements, she adds. But the high volume of resettlement cases is already thinning out the agency’s scarce resources, Farrier adds. For example, according to the agency’s annual report, ACC welcomed more than 1,200 community members last year, including 70 refugee families and another 55 SIVs, all with a budget of approximately $2.7 million, the lowest it’s been over the last four years. Farrier adds that the agency was already on pace to increase its number of families served in 2021 because COVID-19 caused many former clients to return for additional housing or employment services. “So far, it’s been really challenging,” Farrier said. Floyd Preston, a program manager at Lutheran Family Services in Colorado Springs, echoed Farrier’s sentiments to The Colorado Springs Gazette. He said his organization is struggling to keep up with housing demand because rentals are becoming hard to find in the “hot” housing market. LFS is even asking its private landlord partners for some flexibility on rental payments from refugees. The IRC did not return multiple requests for comment on this story. Despite the current challenges, state economists found that more than 76 percent of the refugees and immigrants who come to Colorado experience “high integration” within the first four years of their arrival, meaning they were able to find employment, place their children in school, and attain health care, among other social measures. 10 DENVER VOICE January 2022 PAGE TITLE But the logjam for services is impacting the everyday lives of Afghan refugees like Siddiqi. Since his wife, Hoira, doesn’t speak English yet, Siddiqi says the family is surviving on federal cash benefits and another “few hundred dollars” of food stamps until he can find employment. And little decisions seem to add up quickly. Siddiqi said that after his daughter spent $40 on books at a recent school fair, he and his wife skipped a meal at the end of the month to balance out the expense. These dilemmas seem to be cropping up more frequently, too, Siddiqi says. Even though the family received a “generous” amount of donation from Broomfield community members upon their arrival, Siddiqi knows it won’t last long once they move out of the home they are currently sharing with a local police officer and his wife. Siddiqi said his family hopes to move out of the house soon but finding a reasonable rental home has been “next to impossible.” Broomfield’s average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is close to $1,800 per month, according to data from real estate website Point2Homes. This means people like Siddiqi need to find a job that pays at least $72,000 annually to not be considered housing burdened or spend more than 30 percent of their monthly income on housing expenses. However, Colorado’s most recent Refugee Integration Survey and Evaluation (RISE) report, found that immigrant and refugee households in the state average between $700 and $999 in weekly earnings during their first four years. If Siddiqi found a job at the high end of the average income range, he would still be paying approximately 45 percent of his monthly income on housing. The mismatch between local wages and housing costs is one of the “structural barriers” identified by researchers at the University of Colorado, Boulder in 2019 that can cause immigrant and refugee families to experience chronic poverty. Siddiqi says he’d like to work in communications, or anywhere where he can make enough money to cover the rent and a few upcoming expenses. He says he wants to become a citizen, but first, he must get over the hurdle of getting a green card, which includes a $1,200 application fee. “It’s one thing to get people out of Afghanistan, but then when you get here, you basically get nothing,” Siddiqi said. “I’m really getting tired of it. I just think to myself, maybe this is all they can do for me?” ■ BEING A CHILDV. beRt All summer, we frolicked in the water sprinklers cooling off from the dry heat, no concern about drinking from the outdoor hose. All summer, we played on lush green lawns, never worried about weed killer on our bare feet. All summer, we had deep brown suntans, not using any sunscreen or fears of exposure to the scorching orb above. All summer, we bounced a tiny red ball playing jacks, shooting marbles on dry dirt, and hopscotch on the colored chalked sidewalk of squares. All summer, we heard the latest Beatles vinyl from our neighbor’s patio on their portable record player. All summer, when the sun had gone down, we waited for the Mister Softee truck, cooling off with their soft serve ice cream, twisted chocolate and vanilla dipped in a rainbow of colored sprinkles on a cake cone. All summer, we never had a care in the world, no planning for the future, just having fun as a child. WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP OSHA BEAR A COLORADO CHILDHOOD Always looking Westward “Red” burnt across the valley The Canyon winds through seasons Simple places In a wooded hiding spot The crunch of snow silent in a Mountain Lions cry the scent of juniper and pine Aspen trees glisten in quivering communication journeys through lapping water Nature’s breathe humming quietly The noise of the city still feels foreign unforgiving bumpy Highways wrapping around each other like spider webs Snow caps ascend The boys discuss How much powder there will be to glide down the slopes Night glistens In Moonlight and countless stars Summer fills with soaked tires and flip-flops littering the creek Books calm the restlessness of rainy afternoons In the midst of candle lit evenings Thunder rattles the house. The click of hooves comes with surprise 10 year old excitement in capturing a pair of frightened horses. The smell of roasting chills signals an abundant Saturday morning The bustling of bright baskets filled with farmers delights. Laughter fills the air in the abundance of beautiful food. 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org AN AFGHAN WOMAN SITS OUTSIDE AT A PROCESSING CENTER FOR REFUGEES EVACUATED FROM AFGHANISTAN AT THE DULLES EXPO CENTER NEAR DULLES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN CHANTILLY, VIRGINIA. CREDIT: REUTERS/KEVIN LAMARQUE January 2022 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA BRIAN AUGUSTINE. CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL SELF, IT’S A NEW YEAR BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR HAPPY NEW YEAR, SELF. We get to start over again in this new year, with no bad stuff. Forget last year. If you feel you messed up, you get to do it over and be better this new year. Self, don’t beat yourself up because you feel last year was not right for you. Let it go. A new year means you got to do better this year. Look forward. Do not dwell on last year. It’s a new year to be a better self, a more caring and loving self. Self, you always look forward; not back. You can’t change the past, but you can always change your future. So, Self, I’m wishing you the best new year ever. Remember, Self, only you can change you, and only you can help others this year. So, Self, be the best you can be this year! ■ LEFT TO RIGHT: JEROME COTTON, ALVIN COTTON, JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: JUSTIN CANALES REST IN POWER, ALVIN “MUSTAFA” COTTON BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN, MANAGING EDITOR THE DENVER VOICE COMMUNITY recently lost one of our vendors, Alvin “Mustafa” Cotton, who died of COVID in December. A brother of long-time vendors John Alexander and Jerome Cotton, Mustafa joined the VOICE in 2011. We will share more about Mustafa in a future issue. All of us at the VOICE extend our love and condolences to John, Jerome, and the rest of their family members. ■ LOSING A DEAR FRIEND BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE, VOICE VENDOR TODAY, A REALLY GOOD FRIEND DIED. He was a Vietnam vet. Tried to live the best he could. I became his medical proxy. Because he didn’t have a lot of friends, I count myself lucky to be one of them. Until he met me, he felt very lonely. I was able to get him to eat better. But, years of malnutrition and smoking took more than I could help him replace. As his proxy, I had to make the final decision. One I hated. But, knew it was best. He couldn’t keep his oxygen level. He was in pain. So, I sent him to hospice, knowing he would leave quickly. He died at 6:37 Sunday night... Three days before his 74 birthday. I really wanted him to see that day. He just wasn’t going to make it. To Patrick Hagan, he gave his all to life. Gave as much to God. As I cry with my loss, I struggle with guilt, for my signature ended his fight and pain. I just don’t know if I caused his death prematurely. He knew that I cared for him in life and will care for his remains. Make sure everyone you care about hears the word from your heart to lips to their ear into their hearts. ■ FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE January 2022 EVENTS WOLFHAWK COMEDY SHOW We all need a laugh after the holidays. Come check out this weekly comedy show and LOL to your heart’s content. WHEN: Mondays, 8 p.m. COST: $10 WHERE: Chaos Bloom Theatre, 70 S. Broadway INFO: facebook.com/ChaosBloomTheater 23 27 31 COOKING ON-DEMAND Whether you’re looking to make empanadas, pierogies, fondue, quiche, or tapas, this online library of cooking classes will make your tummy growl. In-person classes available as well. WHEN: Anytime WHERE: Online COST: $35 INFO: theseasonedchef.com/cooking-on-demand 51 56 60 64 THE BI-AGENDA: A COMEDY SHOW FOR THE SILENT MAJORITY Every month, comedians will gather for laughter and connection in a welcoming space for all. WHEN: Jan 14, 8:30 p.m. COST: $12 WHERE: The Wide Right, 2100 Curtis St. INFO: widerightdenver.com 67 61 57 62 65 68 36 40 44 45 46 52 53 58 63 66 69 32 37 41 47 54 59 48 55 28 33 24 29 34 38 42 49 25 30 35 39 43 50 26 COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES 1 13 16 19 17 20 21 2 3 4 14 5 6 7 8 15 18 22 COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 9 10 11 12 ACROSS DOWN 1. Casual greeting 4. Runs in neutral 9. Crime boss 13. PC core 14. Plunder, old-style 15. Australian horse ARTIST TALK WITH JASON MORAN Jason Moran’s exhibition Bathing the Room with Blues, currently on view at MCA Denver, presents artworks that celebrate jazz history and the importance of music and performance in Black culture and American life. Hear about Moran’s journey as an artist at this intimate event. WHEN: Jan 15, doors at 5 p.m., talk at 6 p.m. WHERE: The Holiday Theatre, 2644 W. 32nd St. COST: $10 - $35 INFO: mcadenver.org/events 16. Bill of ___ (legislative act punishing a person or group without trial) 18. Chipped in 19. Trumpeter Armstrong 20. Like winter weather (but not often in Portland) 22. Overwhelming emotion 23. ___ to oranges 25. More marshlike 27. British rule in colonial India 28. Calendar square 30. Pasta toppings 31. Burgle 33. ___ chi (martial art) 35. Store posting (Abbr.) 36. Illicit trading 40. ___ Wednesday 41. Con opposite 42. “Absolutely!” 44. “Not a ___!” 47. Campaigner, for short 49. In-flight info, for short 51. Knight of the Round Table 54. Sacrificial figure 56. Fraction of a joule 57. Autocrats of old 59. Native New Zealander 60. Accused’s need 62. Units of memory 64. Mixer 65. Flip over 66. Colony member 67. Graceful bird 68. Euripides drama 69. Sign before Virgo 1. Like time, speed, and temperature 2. Satisfactory 3. Prearranged conspiracy 4. Opened or closed, as a lens aperature 5. Animal house 6. Boys 7. Balances (out) 8. Goatlike mammal of Asia 9. Campbell’s container 10. Proposed Asian language family 11. Tiny 12. Doctor’s ___ 15. Guidepost 17. Afflict 21. Lavatory 24. Messenger bags 26. University president who introduced the use of standardized test scores in Harvard admissions 29. Tibetan beast of burden 32. Sauvignon ___ 34. Babysitter’s handful 37. Hardly a hedonist 38. Dadaist Jean 39. Stay dry 43. Compound used in plastics 44. Soccer shoes 45. Vegetarian restaurant on Hawthorne 46. Chest pain 48. Sorority letter 50. Blueblood, informally 52. Caulk on a wooden ship 53. Baloney 55. Beam of light 58. Husky burden 61. Container 63. Half and half CATALYST SERIES FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE: THE POWER OF STORYTELLING In this interactive webinar, Kali Fajardo-Anstine will discuss her book, Sabrina & Corina, and discuss storytelling as a way to retain history and promote social justice. Attendees will then engage in an interactive creative writing activity, led by Fajardo-Anstine. WHEN: Jan 20, 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. WHERE: Online COST: Free, but participants must register online INFO: socialwork.du.edu/events January 2022 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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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 14 DENVER VOICE January 2022 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1700 N Wheeling St., Aurora va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org January 2022 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 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

DIRECTOR’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 WINTER 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

HOLIDAY 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 BIZCOCHITOS 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

LOCAL 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 WRAPPING 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

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 LOCAL 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

DONOR 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 EVENTS 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

WANT 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

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE BASIC INCOME PROJECT STUMBLES THE ROLLOUT OF THE DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT LOOKED PROMISING, BUT LEADING UP TO ITS LAUNCH, THE PROGRAM IS ON SHAKY GROUND. PAGE 10 OVER THE PAST DECADE, LAURA AND MATT PARKER’S EXODUS ROAD HAS SAVED HUNDREDS OF SEX TRAFFICKING VICTIMS. PAGE 6 OVER THE PAST DECADE LAURA SEEKING CHANGE FROM THE INSIDE COMMUNITY ACTIVISTS IN AURORA AND COMMERCE CITY HOPE TO CHANGE THE STATUS QUO BY WINNING SEATS ON CITY COUNCIL. PAGE 8 WRAPPING PAPER ISSUE IS NEXT MONTH! KEEP YOUR EYE OUT IN DECEMBER FOR OUR 2021 VENDOR DESIGNS – PERFECT FOR WRAPPING YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTS! VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 NOVEMBER 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 11 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: COURTESY OF THE EXODUS ROAD

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR BY THE TIME most of you see this issue of the Denver VOICE, the November 2 election will be over. We also will know if either Candice Bailey or Renee MillardChacon, two social justice advocates profiled by Giles Clasen in this issue, won city council seats. Additionally, we’ll know the outcomes of ballot measures like 303, the “Let’s Do Better” initiative. While stories about political candidates or information about ballot initiatives may seem like “old news” at this point, Denver VOICE readers and supporters can access more time-sensitive stories on our website. That’s where we first published Clasen’s story about Bailey and Millard-Chicon. We also ran stories on how certain initiatives on the November ballot would impact those experiencing homelessness. When we temporarily paused printing in the spring of 2020, we began running stories online more regularly. Since then, we have published articles about our vendors, community partners, people experiencing homelessness, and the policies that are affecting them, as well as stories on events and activities happening in our community. Bookmark our website to stay updated in between editions. I hope you find the articles in this issue insightful. As you read them if you think of other people or organizations we should cover, please send me an email. Some of the best ideas come from our vendors, readers, and Denver VOICE sponsors. ■ November CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. @deeOCE 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 Paula Bard Giles Clasen 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 Lando Allen Paula Bard Rea Brown Giles Clasen Cat Evans Shaleen Vanese Figueroa Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen Penny Sandoval Michael Sindler Larmarques Smith Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson 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. 2 DENVER VOICE November 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR STREETS: NOPH BY PAULA BARD I OWN 30 ACRES UP IN BAXTER CREEK, behind Susanville, in California. We had a lightning strike, and fire started up on the mountain. It was the biggest, I believe it’s the biggest forest fire that’s ever happened in the United States. I had 30 acres; I watched it burn up in 30 minutes, I barely made it out alive, me and the fire crew. It was called the Sheep Fire; we lost an entire mountain. I actually borrowed a car to drive up here. And just broke down in Beaver, Utah. It was the first storm of the winter. It took me four days to get back here just to find out that I needed an alternator. I wound up homeless here, sleeping in a tent. The day after Thanksgiving. I’ve pretty much been stuck here ever since last November. And every time it seems like I come up, something happens to bring me right back down. I’ve had my wallet stolen, my ID stolen, I’ve had my pack stolen five times, two bikes stolen. Yeah, and it’s either go to eat and watch your bike or not eating. I mean, it was literally stolen right in front of Denver Rescue Mission, with cameras. I’ve moved around with the sweeps, four actual sweeps. I was on 22nd Street for a little while. I started moving a little further out, but that didn’t really make a big difference. I don’t do shelters because I have severe PTSD, hypervigilance. I have night terrors. Originally I’m from Michigan; I was born just outside of Detroit. I was a specialist in the 16th Airborne Rangers. I’m 49, lived in Tucson for 13 years. Went to the University of Arizona. My kids are still down there. My youngest is 27. I have two granddaughters now. When we’re homeless. It is survival mode every day. ■ OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those our city has abandoned. CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. November 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

ANNUAL WRAPPING PAPER On Tuesday, December 7, our community will come together to “give where we live” during Colorado’s largest one-day online giving event. We invite you to join our community on this day and support the Denver VOICE! This year we have a goal of raising $10,000 on Colorado Gives Day, and all gifts made that day on our website will link you directly to this effort. But you can schedule your gift starting November 1! Simply go to www.coloradogives. org/denvervoice/overview. Under the donation amount, check the box that says “Schedule a donation for Colorado Gives Day” and complete the process. VOICE vendors have been busy coming up with wrapping paper designs for our December issue. Keep your eye out next month for the 2021 creations, and use them to wrap your holiday gifts! Your gift delivers ongoing support for the more than 100 individuals we employ each year through the vendor program - giving everyone that comes to us in need the opportunity that comes from tools of empowerment and hope for change! 4 DENVER VOICE November 2021 2021 ART BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON T BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNS N NE JOHNSON 2021 ART BY VOICE VENDOR LANDO ALLE T DO ALLE T BY VOICE VENDOR LANDO ALLEN LLEN 2021 ART BY VOICE VENDOR REA BROWN 21 AR AUTUMN 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 A ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q Why did you decide to get the COVID-19 vaccination? LANDO ALLEN I got the vaccine to protect myself and others. RAELENE JOHNSON I got it because I have COPD. With my lung issues, I’m even more susceptible towards getting it, so when it was time for my age group to get it, I wanted to do it for my health, and to protect others around me. JERRY ROSEN The reason I got the vaccine is so that it would protect me from getting COVID because I felt it I was doing the right thing. PENNY SANDOVAL I decided to get vaccinated because medical professionals said I should. LARMARQUES SMITH Because I am immuno-compromised, it was important for me to get the vaccine to stay healthy, but also, I had misgivings about taking the vaccine. I wanted to see how others who got the vaccine reacted before I took it just because, typically, there has been mistrust with drugs like that, but if you think about it, the whole world is being vaccinated against this. That’s how polio was eradicated, so I had to take it…. I had to take it. 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. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. November 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE EXODUS ROAD: A WAY OUT FOR SEX TRAFFICKING VICTIMS BY CAT EVANS HUMAN TRAFFICKING is an ongoing and widespread problem that the majority of society knows little about. There is no discrimination when it comes to the victims of trafficking as it impacts men, women, and children internationally. Statistically, however, women and girls are disproportionately impacted. According to freetheslaves.net, “an estimated 71% of enslaved people are women and girls, while men and boys account for 29%.” Trafficking is highly lucrative, with global profits sitting around roughly $150 billion a year — humanrights.org estimates $99 billion of trafficking profits come from commercial sexual exploitation. The majority of trafficking comes into the United States. It’s estimated that 50,000 people per year come from Mexico and the Philippines. Laura Parker is the co-founder, president, and CEO of the Exodus Road, a donation-based organization that develops and engages people with programs to end human trafficking. She and her husband Matt Parker started the organization about ten years ago after a life-changing experience when Matt, a youth pastor, received an offer to run a children’s home in northern Thailand. Once they were overseas, Matt began working at an allgirls home. Trafficking wasn’t even on his radar until he heard about ‘Johns’ — people who recruited young girls and trafficked them. “It brought this overwhelming sense of responsibility to me,” he said. “I was running a children’s home with 48 girls in it; they were all from these villages.” From there, Matt started to investigate different villages to find out if the rumors were true. Everywhere he went, trafficking was a known issue — and even worse, it was a normal issue. “It struck me that something was happening that was systemic,” he said. He and his team met with law enforcement, who invited them to be their consultants and do research on human trafficking. They realized no one was looking for victims of trafficking. The civilians and nonprofits rely on the police, and the police are often corrupt and preoccupied. “This was a significant discovery for us,” Matt explained. To get the police involved, there needed to be solid evidence, verifiable information. Matt sought out informants to do the job and find tangible evidence but fell short because of the significant dangers that going undercover imposed. Growing more frustrated, he and a couple of his close friends took matters into their own hands. Matt was as serious about this cause as he was about his wife and children. Knowing the work was dangerous and that he was risking his life doing more than just research, Matt asked Laura for her permission. Laura, who was hesitant, assumed Matt’s PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE EXODUS ROAD 6 DENVER VOICE November 2021 LOCAL FEATURE COURTESY OF THE EXODUS ROAD project would take a short time to complete, and then, that would be that. Even though she feared for her husband, she ultimately agreed and gave him her blessing. What Matt and his team discovered, as they dug deep into the world of trafficking, was disturbing and shockingly casual. At one point, the team came upon a location where girls were lined up on a stage wearing numbers. In turn, the Johns chose whatever number girl suited them, paid a set amount of money, and got to take the girls upstairs to do whatever they wanted with them for an hour. As Matt explained, “With human trafficking, people are turned into a commodity. Those girls were commodities; they were canned goods on a shelf, and you could pick whichever ones you wanted.” Matt was able to speak to one of those girls, whose name was Belle. She recounted how someone came to her family offering Belle a job for massage work, and once she arrived, she was told she owed a debt and that there was no job; she had to dance. When Matt asked why she couldn’t leave, Belle explained that she didn’t know how to get home. This is a typical way victims of trafficking get trapped. The trafficker entices them with promises of greater opportunity. Then, the trafficker takes ownership of the victim in his possession, delivering on none of the promises he made. Upon returning home, Matt was so moved by what he experienced that he talked to Laura about continuing with the undercover work. Thinking of her own children in a similar situation, Laura agreed. She tracked Matt’s every move, as he continued to go undercover, as he’d go in and out of brothels, studying fiercely, and secretly recording different spaces filled with underage girls for sale. After eight months, Matt turned over plenty of sufficient intelligence to the authorities, but nothing had come of it. He provided footage inside of different locations and spoke with various women regarding their situations. He and Laura began to question whether or not what they were doing even mattered. As time went on, Matt was introduced to a 15-year-old girl named Sarah, whom he and his team tried to rescue multiple times to no avail. Each time they’d go in, there would be an COURTESY OF THE EXODUS ROAD internal, corrupt tip-off from authorities, a common issue among law enforcement with corrupt ties. With the cards seemingly stacked against them, Matt and his team were relentless. They finally saved Sarah and the other girls, and the involved traffickers were arrested during a full-swarm hit on a known trafficking space. From there, they found more and more success. That’s when they knew they could really make an impact. In order to train, deploy, and map at large scales, they needed money. Then came the idea of founding the Exodus Road, which they viewed as “a path out of slavery.” A frequent mantra for the Exodus Road is, “We must make trafficking a dangerous thing to do.” The model of Exodus Road exists to support other law enforcement officers, social workers, and different impact groups – to celebrate good work and make it known what’s happening in the world and to all who are involved. One of the largest issues with trafficking is that it’s rarely mentioned in spaces of action. Over the years, as the organization has grown, it has become more and more evident that trafficking was uncharted, neglected, and a necessary cause to devote their lives to. Speaking on why it’s such a rarity, Laura, who in the past two years opted into a leadership position as president of the Exodus Road, stated, “Trafficking is an issue people are intimidated to talk about, particularly in a sex trafficking space. There’s something about sex trafficking that feels very taboo, so people kind of want to shut their eyes to it.” There are also extreme complexities and misunderstandings of how relevant it is to daily life. “People aren’t even really sure what sex trafficking is. Most people think it’s happening somewhere far away, and they often miss the reality that it’s right here, as well.” What’s most worrisome about the misunderstanding of trafficking is the major lack of information in knowing what to look for, and the best response and intervention methods. Pointing to the universal presence of trafficking, Laura explained, “This issue is really hidden in plain sight. You see what you’d expect, but then you also see people who are professionals – whether they’re users (knowingly engaging with trafficked people) or traffickers.” There are varying types of trafficking. One common form is familial – where people are trafficking out of their own homes. Often, people who are trafficked are in unfortunate or desperate situations, like teens in the foster care system, LGBTQ+ youth, and homeless youth of all genders. Often, undocumented workers are used in labor trafficking. Trafficking also shows up in places like massage parlors, bars, domestic household help, city streets, and lower-income neighborhoods. “It’s hard because it is everywhere. Traffickers are always looking to exploit the vulnerable,” Laura said. Over the past 10 years, the Exodus Road has intensified its focus on information distribution. They now have three prominent programs: prevention, intervention, and aftercare. In the prevention category is TraffickWatch Academy, a program that educates law enforcement, nongovernmental organization practitioners, students, and communities with high-level content from the counter-trafficking community. The intervention program involves training, case building, technology use, and law enforcement support. The aftercare solution provides crisis workers and social workers on search and rescue teams. Recognizing that every shot is one worth taking, the Exodus Road team moves with a trauma-informed approach to help those in greatest need. As of now, the Exodus Road has rescued 1,505 people, arrested 820 traffickers, and is currently operating in six countries. To learn more about www.theexodusroad.com. ■ the Exodus Road, visit November 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL STORY CANDICE BAILEY SPEAKS AT AURORA DEMOCRATIC BREAKFAST FORUM IN OCTOBER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CANDICE BAILEY IS RUNNING FOR AN AT LARGE SEAT ON THE AURORA CITY COUNCIL. “…WORKING ON COMMITTEES AND BOARDS AT THE STATE AND LOCAL LEVEL SPEAKS MORE FOR WHO I AM, AND HOW I WILL LEAD, THAN THE WORK THAT I DO ON CORNERS WITH BULLHORNS.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN RUNNING TO CHANGE BY GILES CLASEN AFTER SPENDING YEARS FIGHTING FOR CHANGE as community organizers, and motivated by their desire to change the system from the inside, community organizers and advocates for social justice are running as city council candidates in Commerce City and Aurora. Candice Bailey, who became known throughout Aurora and Colorado for her vocal criticism of the Aurora Police Department following Elijah McClain’s death, is running for an Aurora City Council At Large seat. “I think that as a Black woman, I’ve always stood up for what was right,” Bailey said. “When I organized protests, with respect to Elijah McClain, I didn’t do something unique; I did something that every one of us should have done – that we had the responsibility to do. Standing up for someone who is brutally murdered — that is the right thing to do.’ Bailey said she wants people to know that she will always fight for justice, but her work for police reform has included more than organizing protests to draw attention to the brutal tactics of Aurora police. Without endorsing any one candidate, Colorado Congressman Jason Crow suggested there are many models of service that help prepare individuals for office. 8 DENVER VOICE November 2021 “No one person or organization can solve all of the challenges we face,” Crow said. “We have never before in our country or community history faced as many and as different types of complicated and overlapping problems. We need lots of different perspectives and different people to come together and figure out how to address those challenges. That’s going to require diversity of thought, it’s going to require diversity of background and experience,” Crow added. Representative Iman Jodeh, who represents Aurora House District 41 in the state house, agrees. “It’s important [for community organizers to run for office],” said Jodeh. “These are the folks that are in the trenches; these are the folks that have the lived experiences that I think the majority of [elected officials] haven’t had.” After years of advocacy for Indigenous and Chicano communities, Renee Millard-Chacon is running for a seat in Ward 3 for Commerce City Council and is campaigning for environmental justice within Commerce City. “Commerce City’s [elected] leaders don’t look at the health and safety of the community as a priority,” Millard-Chacon said. “They focus development on economic benefits. But the economic benefits are only creating a future for a privileged few while harming current generations and future generations.” The two environmental concerns Millard-Chacon has built her candidacy on are the Suncor refinery and potential for new fracking wells being approved in Commerce City. “With the pollution from Suncor, and the future pollution from fracking, we’re getting hit double and adding to those systemic health disparities,” Millard-Chacon said. The Commerce City Council passed Ordinance 2266 in March, which now requires all oil and gas permits be approved by the city council. “This change makes the 2021 Commerce City election the most important election in a long time,” Millard-Chacon said, “because the city council will play a larger role in approving oil and gas drilling permits.” A report released in 2019 by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment found individuals living within 2,000 feet of fracking wells are exposed to benzene and other chemicals that are health risks. Both Bailey and Millard-Chacon have participated in community engagement through nonprofit work. Millard-Chacon co-founded the nonprofit Womxn of the Mountain, an organization focusing on cultural education and inclusivity training. She also formerly worked at Spirit of the Sun, an organization that works with indigenous tribes to create new development opportunities and improve tribal economies. Bailey has founded nonprofits and businesses that train officers on addressing trauma in the community. She also serves on the City of Aurora Community Police Task Force, as well as a half dozen other local and state boards and committees. Additionally, she has trained police officers throughout Colorado on trauma-informed policing as part of her nonprofit and small business ventures. “I think that my track record of working inside of public safety, working on committees and boards at the state and local level, speaks more for who I am, and how I will lead, than the work that I do on corners with bullhorns,” Bailey said. Trauma-informed practices involve recognizing and responding to the effects of trauma in behavior to a police presence. It is a policing practice interwoven with de-escalation tactics to prevent violence during police encounters. Bailey believes that police have a difficult job and face damaging trauma within the job, and she wants police officers to understand they are valued within the community. Still, Bailey believes defunding the police is an important step forward. LOCAL STORY RENEE MILLARD-CHACON SAID SHE IS FRUSTRATED THAT THE ECOLOGICAL HARM CAUSED BY SUNCOR AND FUTURE FRACKING SITES HAVE UNDULY IMPACT LOWINCOME FAMILIES AND PEOPLE OF COLOR. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN RENEE MILLARD-CHACON (CENTER) SPEAKS AT AN EMERGE COLORADO EVENT. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Defunding the police is a movement to reallocate funds from police departments to other public safety and social support programs like social services, housing services, and other community services. Bailey wants to see social workers and mental health providers respond to certain crisis calls that may not require a police presence. She believes this will help lessen the trauma to police officers and help keep the public safer. Aurora has already created two different programs designed to provide help to individuals experiencing mental health crises as an alternative to police intervention. The Crisis Response Team is a partnership between the Aurora PD and the Aurora Mental Health Center to help individuals experiencing mental illness to avoid incarceration, while introducing them to and helping them navigate the Aurora behavioral health programs. The Aurora Mobile Team is similar to Denver’s STAR program and utilizes mental health workers and a paramedic to deescalate crisis situations. It is currently in a six-month trial program and only active in Northeast Aurora. “The programs exist,” Bailey said. “Now we need to tighten them up, and we need to strengthen them. We need to make sure that they’re being utilized properly by our police department.” According to Representative Jodeh, candidates who have worked in the trenches to change their community may be better suited to create new laws and ordinances that are more equitable to individuals who aren’t always recognized by politicians. “When you come from a [Black and Indigenous People of Color] community, this gives you a different lens on advocacy,” Jodeh said. “When you take that into elected office, it also gives a different lens to policymaking. That gives the people a voice that oftentimes is overlooked, misheard, and misunderstood.” Millard-Chacon said she is frustrated that the ecological by harm caused Suncor disproportionally impacts low-income families and People of Color, including undocumented individuals who aren’t able to vote. “Suncor’s pollution causes harm to our disproportionately impacted communities, starting with Indigenous and Chicano communities,” Millard-Chacon said. “When we ask for equity and protection, Commerce City [elected] leaders act as if health and safety is some form of charity. Suncor and so many emitters have been able to secrete a damaging amount of pollution onto Commerce City,” Millard-Chacon said. “They have never been restorative to heal what they’ve done. Commerce City has never provided an enforceable protection and they don’t pursue it either.” Suncor experienced malfunctions in 2017, 2019, and 2020 which caused excessive emissions and a release of catalyst, a clay like emission, to cascade across Commerce City. It is among the largest polluters in the state of Colorado and was penalized by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) for exceeding permit emission levels of hydrogen-cyanide, a cancer causing chemical, in 2019. As recently as August 2021, CDPHE air monitoring found elevated levels of pollutants near the Suncor plant. Suncor released an independent report, just before public hearings in 2021, exploring the state’s renewal of Suncor’s permit. The report, which was funded by Suncor, recommended new actions for the plant to protect the community from future malfunctions. The recommendations were accepted by CDPHE in May of 2021, and Suncor is in the process of implementing them. Suncor’s permit has not yet been renewed by the state. Millard-Chacon said that Suncor wasn’t the only environmental risk facing Commerce City. Commerce City could also be the site of new fracking wells. The Denver-based company, Extraction Oil & Gas, currently has applications for six different permits in varying phases of approval submitted to the city. “I’m not a politician,” Millard-Chacon said. “I am not here to be a celebrity. I have suffered and have seen my whole family suffer from systemic violence. I do not want my children to have to endure this or have to fight these same fights for equity just to be able to live and thrive in their spaces.” For Candice Bailey, it was a fight just to get on the ballot, as the Aurora City Charter prohibited felons from running for office. Bailey pled guilty to a second-degree assault charge in 1999 and attributes her actions to being young and dumb. She said she learned from the experience and believes it gave her valuable insight into how the legal system has a very real and life-long individuals. With help from the ACLU, arguing the charter violated the state constitution, Bailey sued the City of Aurora. The Aurora City Council voted 7-2 to change the charter in an August meeting allowing Bailey to run. Bailey sees the charter as an element of the Jim Crow past and believes it was designed to disenfranchise People of Color and prohibit them from representation. “It is the responsibility of our council members, of our legislators, and of our senators to come in and look at the laws and policies that exist and to have those Jim Crow laws removed,” Bailey said. Bailey believes much of the system needs changing and that her work as an advocate for police reform can help lead Aurora in a new direction. “I’m not here to provoke a fight; I’m here to provoke a change.” ■ November 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY DENVER BASIC INCOME PROJECT STUMBLES BY PAULA BARD “The Denver Basic Income Project is a powerful example of what can happen when the private sector, government, and philanthropy come together to co-create solutions to complex challenges,” says Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Denver Foundation. “Many people in our community need resources to overcome deep, systemic issues that lead them to homelessness in the first place. Basic incomes will create a lifeline for stability, economic opportunity, and wellness.” BASIC INCOME – transferring cash directly to the unhoused – is a sensible and humane vision currently in the experimental stage around the country. For Denver, it could potentially impact up to 600 of the metro area’s 6,104 individuals experiencing homelessness. (This number comes from the 2020 Point in Time survey count.) Mark Donovan, a Denver resident, saw this potential impact and decided to invest in a community initiative. According to Donovan, a basic income would at least stabilize things and create some of the redistributions of the unjust allocation of wealth that is pervasive in our economy. Donovan believes that taking financial action could impact the lives of people in great need. So, with a seed donation, he began the Denver Basic Income Project. The project, which aims to provide a basic income of $12,000 to select individuals, involves a partnership between local nonprofit service providers already involved with caring for the unhoused and community members, along with organizations that can provide funding and support. Importantly, they included an advisory board with lived experience of being unhoused. But it can be a daunting task to gather players from all walks of life to work together and take meaningful action around Denver’s humanitarian crises of the unhoused. Even though the Denver Basic Income Project initially aimed to fully launch this fall, ahead of winter, it has stumbled. The project began earlier this summer with a pilot program meant to iron out any issues. Then, in late August, the nonprofit Denver Homeless Out Loud (DHOL) decided to leave the project after the completion of the pilot. What went wrong? THE PLAN The program is modeled after the groundbreaking New Leaf Project (NLP) in Vancouver and the Stockton Economic Empowerment Demonstration (SEED). Both programs funneled direct cash payments to vulnerable populations and have revealed dramatically positive results. The SEED program reduced income volatility and allowed recipients to find full-time employment. Recipients of a guaranteed income were healthier, showing less depression and anxiety and enhanced wellbeing. The Impact Report from the NLP showed that moving into housing provides stability, reduces 10 DENVER VOICE November 2021 the risk of trauma, improves health, and frees up shelter beds. The report also showed that recipients prioritized spending on recurring essentials like housing, food, transportation, and utility bills. The organization has partnered with the University of Denver’s Center for Housing and Homelessness Research and tasked them with running a randomized control trial to chart results. This will enable them to contribute solid data to the policy debate advocating for Universal Basic Income as an effective tool to address extreme poverty and unhoused populations. The research will analyze the impact of direct cash on housing, wellness, income volatility, and stability. This summer, the Denver Basic Income Project structured its pilot in three tiers of direct cash payments: Group A: Participants will receive 12 consecutive monthly cash transfers of $1,000 on the 16th of each month. Group B: Participants will receive a one-time cash transfer of $6,500 during the initial enrollment month and then will receive 11 consecutive monthly cash transfers of $500 on the 16th of each month. Group C: Participants will be considered the control group for the study. They will receive 12 consecutive monthly cash transfers of $50 on the 16th of each month. DHOL and Mile High Ministries were the two groups actively involved with small pilots, each signing up six participants – two people in each of the three categories. VISIONS COLLIDE Some members of the nonprofit community, those working directly with the unhoused, had concerns around safety and the speed of the program’s rollout. Ana Sofia Cornelius of DHOL, who is running one of the small pilots, saw two significant issues and raised her concerns to the group. “Particularly around the consent form and card limits. I brought it up at the first board meeting. . . If the participants left the program they had to pay back the funds, which I thought was very problematic,” Cornelius explains. “When I was pitched this project I was told there would be no strings attached. And this seemed like a pretty big string, especially for someone who has nothing, to then maybe have a $12,000 bill is a huge handicap and harm.” PAUL WALLS, DENVER BASIC INCOME RECIPIENT. CREDIT: PAULA BARD She was told that she misunderstood and that the form had been informed by a group of lawyers and was finalized due to a shortened timeline. “Because of the deadlines, we were being pushed to keep moving forward, even though there were lots of problems that we wanted to troubleshoot,” says Cornelius. “The other issue was the card limit,” she continues. “If you’re looking to make a big purchase, you can’t, because there are card limits. And if you’re looking to make cash purchases, there are withdrawal limits. And so, for folks who are unhoused and looking for maybe to buy an RV off of Craigslist or something, they’re going to be working with cash. The limit is $705 a day, but an RV is clearly more than $705. So, if you’re withdrawing $705 per day, where are you storing it? If you’re unhoused on the street, having that amount of cash in your tent with no protection can make WHO IS MARK DONOVAN? DESCRIBING HOW HE ENDED UP IN DENVER, Donovan explains, “I went to Indonesia in the early ’90s and fell in love with it,” he says. “I established a business and a life in between Bali, Indonesia and the U.S. and built my company over the years. We were a women’s sweater company. I’m still one of the principals; I’m not as active as I used to be. I’ve learned a lot from that, particularly lean manufacturing, to do a lot with little space and little money. It’s applying that kind of thinking within this space and trying to come up with different approaches, run small tests. If we learn something, then we try again. That’s the way I’m trying to approach it. I think the Basic Income Project is one of those concepts that might create a foundation for accelerated transition towards stability.” Donovan started coming to Colorado about 10 years ago and then moved to Denver in 2017. He started doing personal basic income grants last June. “With the personal grants, I work with a number of individuals who are unhoused. This has been part of my learning experience. Then I started having discussions with some of the partners last December like Jeff Johnson at Mile High Ministries and Cole Chandler at Colorado Village Collaborative. He discusses his approach to problem-solving, explaining, “I started with the personal grants. I run small pilots and learn from them and pivot and see what works and what feels right, and then keep going from there. So, I started doing a deep dive into the research and direct cash everywhere, including child tax credits. I haven’t read anything negative about direct cash so it seemed like this is something we can build upon.” According to Donovan, the efficacy of direct cash has been proven. “What we’re trying to do is get as much out as possible, and learn how to target it better,” he says. “Is the lump sum better than monthly $1,000 [payments]? We can use it in conjunction with different service approaches and the different organizations. Will that impact or show us how to do it better? And so, it’s a lot about learning and also providing this foundational support that will hopefully accelerate and augment the work of these partners that we have.” ■ ANA SOFIA CORNELIUS WITH DENVER HOMELESS OUTLOUD. CREDIT: PAULA BARD PAGE TITLE people vulnerable to attack. We have to do away with the card limits.” Service providers, who work with the unhoused, are not currently set up to organize or provide banking services for the participants. Those living on the streets are very vulnerable to crime, particularly theft; they have no way to protect themselves. Paul Walls, 55, has been unhoused on and off in Denver’s streets for years. Recruited for the project in June, he is part of group B and received the large initial cash payment followed by monthly payments. His bank card has been stolen twice. Walls is a natural leader and identifies so strongly with his community that the money he has received has gone largely toward helping fellow community members who are coping with desperate needs and various health crises. For those living on the streets, community is survival. “It’s not about me, it’s about us,” Walls says. He goes on, “Out here if you put yourself above others, you separate yourself.” ATTEMPT AT RECONCILIATION “I think if we had just sat down and worked together, we could have easily resolved the challenges,” Donovan says in hindsight. “I should have tripled down on building the coalition relationships.” “If you bring in groups with such a different perspective on life, in a project like this, there should be some kind of mediation process when you have conflict,” says Cornelius. The Conflict Center was involved, but according to Cornelius, they were not used effectively, and differing points of view were not valued equally. She did not feel a spirit of cooperation and did not think that the community she represented, the unhoused themselves, was heard sufficiently. So, the group brought in an organizational consultant. Donovan, however, is conflicted about delaying the project to reach consensus within the group. “And so, which is the right move?” Donovan reflects, “I don’t know.” ROLLING FORWARD “We’re going to move forward,” Donovan stated. “The work is super important.” Regarding the potential absence of DHOL, he says, “It won’t be as strong as it would be if they were involved. But it’s still going to be hugely impactful, and we have tons of great partners who have been working in this space for decades and are hugely committed.” Cornelius believes the timeline should be slowed down. “I think that because the pilot is already in progress,” she says. “They should run the pilot, learn lessons from the pilot before they go into a full program. Gaining knowledge would make more sense to me. That gives them time to really assess.” Despite the conflict, the Denver Basic Income Project plans to add more people in the coming months. “We probably won’t be ready by January but will have a better idea by the end of November,” says Donovan, “Our selection committee chose 15 partner organizations, plus backups from the applicant pool. We have not yet publicly announced the partners but are working with them to prepare for the launch.” NEXT To move forward, they will need to place value on all the voices brought to the table and build crucial relationships. This involves listening with patience and learning from diverse experiences. Sometimes “start-up culture” has to slow down and learn from the wealth of experience on the ground. If this project moves forward while building bridges, it could very well have an enormously positive impact on some of the most vulnerable in Denver’s unhoused community. ■ WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP SHALEEN VANESE FIGUEROA KEYS Houselessness tends to be an event that rocks your world, And your senses. It’s how I figured out that the “rod of poverty” spares noone. “Spare the rod, spoil the child.” Just for a sec, Imagine how close to home, being housless, actually is. As close as a COVID-19 diagnosis, a coupled death, or accompanying vaccine. “Then, I became a man, I put away childish things.” It’s a full time job, with “childlabor-like” daily pay. A lot of hustle: Bustle, grappling, sacrifice, and suffering. It has plagued my life, since approximately: 1996. I ran away from home. It’s almost like taking breath, Living life, and/or, just chillaxin, up in “The River Stixx”, And with DEATH, just knocking at your door. Can the intricate, delicate daily tasks of life ever become a bore ‘Lenore? forevermore. forevermore. MICHAEL SINDLER HARD TIMES LIMERICKS Once Jane and Simone and Dan Came up with a wonderful plan To help those in hard times Heal through prose and rhymes Now CAN’T has been changed to CAN The group became a family Where participants felt safe and free To share with trust and with pride What they felt deep inside In a spirit of camaraderie They crafted literary gems Even published many of them Who would have guessed That they’d be so blessed With Hard Times as their eponym? Now a new crop of facilitators and a growing family of creators keep writing and sharing and giving and caring each week it gets greater and greater 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org November 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS BOUND TO GO LEFT BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR I’m not a racist, but these cases, make me have to take a side. How long must this go on? They even killed a man in his own home, eating ice cream, relaxing. It’s like our values is nothing, unlawful cuffing, somebody better do something, before I go live with my cousin. She has guns by the dozen. “Ahem!” Jeff cleared his throat interrupting, “Would anyone else like to share something?” He uttered with compunction, but reluctant, “Maybe on a different subject?” Guy noticed all was looking, so he started. “Aroma dancing like cotton candy, mixed with brandy, with a pinch of dandy, fanning fancy with bubbly silk clothing soft like puppy dogs be, more beautiful than anything you could ever see. Unless you were blessed to be able to roam the sea, salty only if I should ever lose the key. Jeff nods his head as if to agree. That’s when Kaylee uttered so humbly, REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN IT WAS BOUND TO GO LEFT. That’s what was on the mind of Jeff, as he spoke with held breath, “Would anyone else like to bless before I put this class to rest?” Her voice cracks as she says, luckily, it’s obvious she’s trying to dam the flood rushing. He could already see the mess that would ensue after yes, the bullets that would fly hitting all without a vest. “Yes, yes, yes!” was the reply from Kaylee, Queen, and Guy. He smiled and said “OK,” but he was really thinking “Why?” Sifting his vocabulary to find ways to say goodbye, he opened his mouth, but he hesitated to lie. It was at that he that he realized Queen was about to cry With frustration in her voice and justice in her eyes, she yelled, “I’m a Black woman, and I will not stand by and watch the murder of innocent lives. They killed another boy with a toy. It’s like they don’t even try! “Luckily I’ll find my way back to luxury. Godspeed, I’ll return to living comfortably. And when I do, I’ll remember those who looked the other way, cause I will look the other way too, trust me. Jeff, not wanting to sound rushy, plus he was somewhat moved by Kaylee, so he decided that a pause was necessary, even if danger was waiting. They had gone too far to try escaping, so Jeff just slowly started pacing. By now, everyone was bracing. The tension was pervading. It was as if the Reaper started speaking, as he uttered, “That’s neat. At least, they think they’re sweet, but hurt their feet. But they look sleek. Often wore to a meet with teeth. Cheek-to-cheek. Even though bleak. In steps, a creep. Hoping nobody peep and notice your need for a seat, or some sneaks until it’s too hard to hide that you’ve been hero-ing up a hill on heaps.■ “Every year, at least a hundred bums die in the streets, and I can’t help but think, ‘what if one week one of them is me?’ With a haircut, a dress and some clogs, I’m not that ugly. A shower or two and a few people would love me. If only they knew who was me, they wouldn’t think themselves above me. Trust me They would consider themselves lucky and pray one day their babies don’t grow to be junkies. A lot of people are okay, one check away from being dusty, one bath away from being musty,” FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org 12 DENVER VOICE November 2021 EVENTS LAUGH LAB Come watch local comedians tinker and test out new material at Rise Comedy’s weekly Laugh Lab! Some comics will concoct the perfect formula while other jokes will implode but regardless, an outrageous amount of fun is guaranteed. WHEN: Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, 8 p.m. WHERE: Rise Comedy, 1260 22nd St. COST: Free MORE INFO: risecomedy.com DENVER FILM FESTIVAL Currently in its 44th year, the Denver Film Festival provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in world-class cinema for 12 straight days. This year’s fest will feature national and international independent films, creative conversations, post-screening Q+As, VR experiences, and additional special events. Choose from fancy-pants red carpet screenings or low-budget indie gems, while you hang with other film lovers and makers. WHEN: Nov 3 – Nov 14 WHERE: Multiple venues COST: Ticket prices vary MORE INFO: denverfilm.org MUSIC IN THE GALLERIES: THE NOOR QUARTET Enjoy live music as you wander the galleries with performances by The Noor Quartet at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. For the health and wellbeing of the community, all visitors ages 3+ are required to wear face coverings inside the museum. WHEN: Nov 14, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. COST: Free w/ museum admission, $6 – $10 WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. MORE INFO: clyffordstillmuseum.org 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. WHERE: Denver Press Club, 1330 Glenarm Pl. COST: $5 MORE INFO: denverpressclub.org/events OPENING DAY OF THE DENVER CHRISTKINDL MARKET This festive holiday tradition will continue in Civic Center Park this year, allowing for more social distancing between guests. However, much of the charm will remain with festive music, big beers, Gluhwein, traditional cuisine, craft vendors, and heat lamps scattered throughout the park. Market runs through December 23, 2021; check the website for daily hours and entertainment. WHEN: Nov 19, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. WHERE: Civic Center Park, Colfax & Broadway 60 MINUTES IN SPACE Hear about the latest in space news, including rocket launches, updates on missions, cutting-edge astronomy, and more. WHEN: Nov 30, 7 p.m. WHERE: Online COST: Free; advance registration required. MORE INFO: facebook.com/DMNSorg November 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 COST: Free entry MORE INFO: christkindlmarketdenver.com COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 ACROSS DOWN 1. Suffix in some city names 5. Inscribed pillar 10. Invitation request 14. On the briny 15. Eye color 16. On the safe side, to a sailor 17. Giving up one’s own needs on behalf of others 20. Betting option 21. Experts 22. The “turf” in surf and turf 23. A pint, maybe 24. Coming back up 31. Malicious 35. Atlanta-based airline 36. Comply with 37. Punjabi princess 38. “Gimme ___!” (start of an Iowa State cheer) 39. “___, far, wherever you are” 40. Loaded (with) 41. Accumulate 43. Big show 44. Weevil 47. Conned 48. To the left, on a ship 52. ___ Henry’s, Tualatinbased business that was sold to Valvoline in 2015 56. Parting word 59. Period that started with the 1929 stock market crash 61. Big laugh 62. Broadcasting 63. Decorative case 64. Aims 65. Jocks’ antitheses 66. Ink decorations 1. Egyptian goddess 2. Consumers 3. Kindled anew 4. Blooper 5. Living together, with “up” 6. Boor’s lack 7. “The Snowy Day” author ___ Jack Keats 8. Hawaiian garland 9. A Little Rascal 10. Derby 11. A ___ of the tongue 12. Blow off steam 13. Coatrack parts 18. Burn the surface of 19. Brainchild 23. Drawer, e.g. 25. Joined with stitches 26. Arm bones 27. Roadwork site sight 28. Surefooted goat 29. ___ tide 30. Greek sandwich 31. Blows it 32. Conceited 33. Data 34. In ___ of (replacing) 41. With reckless ___ 42. Buffy and Faith 45. “___ Darn Cat” 46. Long narrative poem 49. Beginning 50. Indian yogurt dip 51. Rainbow ___ 52. Shrek, e.g. 53. Monopoly token 54. Show the way 55. 2006 Pixar movie 56. Practice in the ring 57. Bone-dry 58. Spanish liqueur 60. Opposite WSW 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

DONOR 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. Whole Foods Foundation Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Creating Healthier Communities Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Kroger Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Matthew Rezek Jerry Conover The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Megan Arellano Audrey Chumley Mr. Paul Manoogian $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 Pivitol Energy Partners Donald Weaver Key Renter Property Management Eileen Di Benedetto Katherine Standiford 14 DENVER VOICE November 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org November 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

n fighting Pints poverty a fundraiser r 2 C 0 2 i - 1 o s P NOVEMBER 18, 2021 THURSDAY, 6-10 P.M. | STARTS AT STRANGE CRAFT BREWING The Denver VOICE’s annual Pints Fighting Poverty Pub Crawl is a fun opportunity to show support for those in our community experiencing homelessness and/or poverty, gain insight into the realities, and make an impact by helping us raise the funds to continue to provide economic, education, and empowerment opportunities for those we have the privilege of serving! Happening during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the evening kicks off at Strange Craft Brewing with a special guest speaker, and includes three stops and a host of exclusive drink specials at some of Denver’s premier brewery and spirit locations! 100% of proceeds raised go toward our mission 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. DENVERVOICE.ORG/ PINTSFIGHTINGPOVERTY n u b r a w l e p

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE TORN DOWN, NOT AS THE CITY OF DENVER CONDUCTS A SWEEP ON FOUR WINDS, PLANS FOR A SAFE OUTDOOR SPACE FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE BUILDS STEAM. PAGE 6 MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH MUTUAL AID MONDAYS OVER THE LAST YEAR, MUTUAL AID MONDAY AT CIVIC CENTER PARK HAS BLOSSOMED INTO ITS OWN UNIVERSE OF SUPPORT FOR THE UNHOUSED. PAGE 8 A HISTORY OF HOMELESSNESS IN DENVER NEITHER HOMELESSNESS NOR ITS IMPACTS ON DENVERITES ARE NEW TO THE MILE HIGH CITY. PAGE 10 “RUNWAY” TO STABILITY THE U.S. IS URGED TO BOOST HOUSING FOR HOMELESS YOUTH. PAGE 4 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 OCTOBER 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 10 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR RECENTLY, the City and County of Denver decided to close Civic Center Park for at least two months, due to unsanitary and unsafe conditions throughout the park. No one wants to be in a popular gathering place that is littered with used needles, rodents, or human waste, but the park’s closure also means that a variety of programs and food distribution for those who frequent or live in the park will also be paused. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Denver VOICE Contributor Paula Bard has spent much of her time volunteering for mutual aid organizations and coordinating services for those at Civic Center Park. I asked Bard to write about her efforts and those of other volunteers at the Park over the past several months. PAULA BARD: MY EXPERIENCE WITH CIVIC CENTER PARK I walk Civic Center Park weekly inviting folks to come eat with us on Mutual Aid Monday, when we offer home-cooked meals to the hundreds of folks congregating in the park. This outreach has given me a good sense of the community and what some of their needs are. As the delta variant became more threatening in late summer, I organized four vaccine clinics with the Denver Department of Health. We got 31 people vaccinated and aim to do more. After witnessing two (truly life-altering) overdoses in the park, I organized NARCAN training with the Harm Reduction Center for all the volunteers serving those in the Park. So, when we witness an overdose, we can step in, administer NARCAN, and hopefully, save a life. Finding pregnant women living on the streets has been especially disturbing for me. I connected with Nurse Family Partnership, which offers medical and housing support to women through their pregnancy and during their first years of parenthood. This kind of support is crucial and enables women to care for their babies through this vulnerable time. This is what I love about mutual aid organizations. Citizens can step up and offer the help that is needed. It has been a great privilege for me to be able to coordinate all of this. ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG October CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. 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. 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 Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS 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 4,000 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. John Alexander Paula Bard Rea Brown Giles Clasen Robert Davis D. Glorso Habeel Harney Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson @deeOCE 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. 2 DENVER VOICE October 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: SHARON BY PAULA BARD “I’VE BEEN OUT ON THE STREETS SINCE ’90. Thirty years, off and on. I’m 51 now. It started with domestic violence. I felt more secure out here with my friends. I’m from Pine Ridge, Oglala Sioux Tribe. I was adopted. I wasn’t raised in my heritage. I was raised by white people. I was taken from my mom. Well, my grandmother, and she got to a point where she was getting old enough, she couldn’t take care of me, so she gave me up, she chose, okay. She wanted me to have a good life. She knew if I would have stayed up there, I probably would have been dead. Nobody’s really paying attention to where I was. She was too old. And I, you know, I appreciate so much that she did that. My mom, she was young, she had two kids. My dad passed away the day before I was born. But I met her, and I met my real family. They’re all passed away now, they’re all gone. I did have a good life. My adopted family gave me a really good life, and they were white. I grew up in Nebraska. And, they were always encouraging me to get ahold of my family. I’m still meeting family, I have a big family, big extended CREDIT: PAULA BARD family, I wasn’t raised around them. So, I’m learning right now, all this stuff, and it’s so exciting for me. Who my people are, what they’re standing for. But I am a person that likes to be happy and positive, and I think it’s because I have been hurt a lot, you know, and let down. So, I think that’s what keeps me going. My sister’s out here. My sister’s working with me, and I can’t leave her by herself. She was adopted, too. Yeah, so we’re both, we, you know, we’ve been through a lot. Because we lived in two worlds. We’re not afraid. We can help each other out. Yeah, that’s the only way we’re gonna get to anything in life; work together. You know, nobody hears about the Native women who have been killed. I know it’s like we’re not important, and like I was saying, if you’re on the street you don’t exist. You know, we were robbed. Our land. We’re going to keep going on and be strong, no matter what. Others want to cry about what happened to them. I can’t say I was there when our ancestors were there, but still, they taught us how to be strong, be who you are, no matter what.” ■ OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those our city has abandoned. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. October 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

NATIONAL STORY ‘RUNWAY’ TO STABILITY: U.S. URGED TO BOOST HOUSING FOR HOMELESS YOUTH BY CAREY L. BIRON Transitional housing programs are seen as filling a critical gap for the country’s 4.2 million unaccompanied homeless youths, but the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development began to deprioritize such programs in 2012. DASH LEFT HOME WHEN SHE WAS A TEENAGER, after a rough patch with her parents when she came out as gay, eventually landing in the shelter system in Anchorage, Alaska. The shelter was a safe and helpful space, she said, but it was also chaotic and difficult to study as a first-year college student - with three people to a room and constant coming and going, everyone kept their personal belongings in lockers. So, after a few months, she applied to a program that felt tailored to her needs: time-limited “transitional” housing where she would have her own living space, along with help preparing for a more permanent housing situation and a stable life. “Having that quiet space and little desk in my room, I was really able to focus,” Dash, who asked to use her first name to protect her identity, said in a phone interview. “It was helpful to just think and reflect on life but still have the option to communicate with other young people and the staff.” Transitional housing programs are seen by backers as critical, filling a gap at a key point in the lives of the country’s 4.2 million unaccompanied homeless youth. But the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) began to deprioritize such programs in 2012, said Barbara Duffield, executive director of SchoolHouse Connection, which advocates for homeless young people. The agency instead shifted focus to shorter- and longerterm housing, Duffield said, leaving out the many homeless youths who need more help than can be offered through emergency programs but do not have the chronic problems that would require permanent housing. “There’s a slogan ‘housing ends homelessness,’ but it doesn’t really, if young people don’t have what they need to stay in housing and be economically independent,” she said. The pandemic has redoubled that need, Duffield said, pointing to a rise in young people being separated from their families due to lack of employment, evictions, and other economic factors. A spokesperson for HUD did not respond to requests for comment. The department has previously pointed to research finding that transitional housing is “generally more expensive and achieves similar or worse outcomes than other housing models serving similar populations.” ‘BREATHING ROOM’ Duffield and others are hopeful they can turn federal policy on the issue under the new Biden administration, including through proposed legislation that would give local authorities greater flexibility in supporting homeless youths. “The effects of homelessness on a child can last a lifetime,” said Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin, a co-sponsor of the bill, the Homeless Children and Youth Act, in a statement. PEOPLE CAMP OUT ON THE STEPS OF THE U.S. CAPITOL TO HIGHLIGHT THE UPCOMING EXPIRATION OF THE PANDEMIC-RELATED FEDERAL MORATORIUM ON RESIDENTIAL EVICTIONS, IN WASHINGTON, U.S., JULY 31, 2021. REUTERS/ELIZABETH FRANTZV “It is in all of our interests to ensure that vulnerable kids get a roof over their heads in a safe and stable environment. Common-sense reforms, like offering more transitional housing, will help do just that.” That position is backed by new data published in June that examined all young people who exited the U.S. transitional housing programs run by Covenant House International in 15 cities over a year. The findings were highly encouraging, said David B. Howard, who oversees research for the non-profit: nearly three-quarters moved into stable housing, and 69% were employed or in school. Such findings suggest the approach can be an important “runway” to independence, he said. “It’s giving breathing room for that young person to know they’re going to have the time to dig in and figure things out,” he said. That can be particularly important for those who have been in the traditional foster care system and who typically “age out” at 18, Howard noted. In the Covenant House study, the average length of stay was about seven months, but Howard said the data suggests that even shorter stints can be significant. The constricted timeframe also encourages more concerted effort than a permanent model, he said. “It’s meant to be part of a transition, so let’s use the time to really focus in on what the issues are that need to be addressed.” ‘SEISMIC’ SHIFT Covenant House has been able to maintain its transitional programs since the 2012 policy change with additional effort, Howard said. Yet many homeless service organizations rely on HUD funding for some 60% of their budgets, according to the June report. It quoted one Virginia provider as characterizing the change as “seismic”, prompting a quick shift away from transitional programs, eliminating case managers, and more. The change made it “very challenging” to keep transitional programs alive, said Deborah Shore, founder and executive director of Sasha Bruce Youthwork, which runs six such programs in Washington. The move has also hurt youth homeless services more broadly, said Shore, who has worked in the field for 45 years: “Youth programs, which were having trouble competing anyway with the adult system, have had a much harder time competing for any funds.” She said the Covenant House findings comport with their own internal assessments. “If you stay in homelessness for long ... you transition into a long-term way of life. We’re doing everything we can to avoid that,” she said. Today in Anchorage, Dash is doing the same: Five years on, she is back at Covenant House, now working with teens seeking safety and stability. Her time in the transitional program was key in helping her learn how to be on her own, she said - how to budget money, purchase a vehicle and eventually move into an apartment. “I know a lot of other young people who went through the program (and are) becoming better versions of themselves,” she said. “Prior circumstances don’t define who we are.” ■ Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / INSP.ngo 4 DENVER VOICE October 2021 AUTUMN 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 ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q What is your favorite autumn memory? A RAELENE JOHNSON When I was younger, I would love to go into the woods and play in the colorful leaves. I also would climb trees to look at the colors from the treetops. My sister and I loved to gather piles of leaves and jump in them. We also loved collecting the leaves and making pictures with them. Fall is always a beautiful time of the year! JERRY ROSEN My favorite autumn memory is seeing the beautiful fall colors on the East Coast. The colors are really beautiful, with orange, red, and purple. Autumn is when the weather gets cooler. It is my favorite time of year. REA BROWN My fondest fun in fall I fail to find the first flowing frenzy of it all for sure the fantastic 24 or more flies or soars on floors twice as tall though fading walls fence my ALL to recall I will say it was that day fraught with unbelievable awe I promised I would never forget the events and the things I saw sleep walking in wonderland with a band of friends and no law the lightest night or dimmest day no finer sight to look away flanked by feelings of disobey yet to make time stand still I could pray to stay spellbound and amazed with my fella’s from crate plays and bad fades repeating don’t focus on the fire face even if the moon took His place it’s to far for your eyes to chase the eclipse. But that might not have been Autumn JOHN ALEXANDER 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. My favorite autumn memory each year is literally every day of the entire season. Like today, which is part of a new month that is already half over. Summer is gone, and in a matter of days – a few weeks at most – the colder weather will be here. When the cold does arrive, it will take us all into the reality experienced by many of the homeless, who will be trying to keep warm, wishing for warmer clothes they don’t have, living in tents and make-shift beds to sleep in on the ground, out in the cold, etc., etc., etc. But today is another beautiful day, and then, as is the case right now, I will have the memories of all the people enjoying this day. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. October 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: GILES CLASEN NATIVE AMERICAN ENCAMPMENT IS TORN DOWN AS SOS FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE BUILDS STEAM BY GILES CLASEN IT FEELS DISCRIMINATORY Late into the night on Aug. 30, individuals packed all of their worldly belongings outside Four Winds American Indian Council while inside, others prepared for a protest. Nearly a week earlier, the City of Denver had posted notices that on Aug. 31, the City would remove all items obstructing the sidewalk and do a coordinated cleanup around the Four Winds buildings. In short, Denver planned to sweep the area of those experiencing homelessness. “It feels discriminatory,” said Mateo Parsons, a board member at Four Winds American Indian Council, who is also Apache, Yaqui, and Tarahumara. “We’re being targeted because we decided to stick up for these people and give a microphone to their voice.” The grounds of Four Winds had become a communal camping site offering safety and support for Native Americans experiencing homelessness. Considering it part of their mission to serve all Native people, Four Winds chose not to discourage camping on the sidewalks around their property. The nonprofit even provided water and food, as well as extension cords to charge electrical devices. Four Winds helped take care of the campsite and maintain its cleanliness. Most importantly, Four Winds helped build a community for Native Americans experiencing homelessness in Denver. SEEKING COMPASSION Once the notice about the sweep went up, Four Winds quickly sought to stop the sweep. They spoke regularly with city officials in the days leading up to it. The Four Winds board and members of the Denver Native American community even scheduled a Zoom meeting with Denver Mayor Michael Hancock the day before the sweep in a last-minute attempt to convince him the homeless community at Four Winds needed to be seen differently from other homeless encampments. According to Parson, Four Winds was hopeful about the call. After all, Hancock had marched with the Native community in the past. 6 DENVER VOICE October 2021 Those in the meeting pleaded with Mayor Hancock to recognize the sweep would impact Native Americans camping on Native-managed land. Seeking compassion, they pointed out that the Native community disproportionately experiences poverty, Parsons said. They also discussed how two previous sweeps at Four Winds had caused a reshuffling of tents, but the unhoused individuals returned and would likely return. Hancock refused to relent. The sweep would go on. PEOPLE DON’T UNDERSTAND US City officials cited the start of school in August as a major factor for sweeping the campsite, which was six blocks from the Denver Center for International Studies, part of Denver Public Schools. Denver police arrived early in the morning on Aug. 31, armed with paintball guns loaded with PepperBalls and other crowd disbursement weapons. They faced a peaceful protest from the Native community. Some held signs and flags; others played a drum and chanted. The camp was quickly cordoned off with a chain-link fence, and within hours, the campsite dissolved. LOCAL FEATURE Some who were displaced were offered 14-day motel vouchers upon moving, while others moved their tents off the sidewalk and onto the Four Winds property. “People don’t understand us,” said Sharon, a Native American experiencing homelessness and camping on the sidewalk in front of the Four Winds American Indian Council. “They see a problem. But we are Natives on our Native land. We care for this land.” Sharon said the community built at the Four Winds was irreplaceable. “If someone takes my stuff [during a sweep], or I lose it, it is just materialistic stuff I can replace,” Sharon said. “If I lose my family, my sisters I live with out here, I can’t replace them.” A SYMPTOM OF BIGGER PROBLEMS According to Renee M. Chacon, a protestor at the sweep on Aug. 31, sweeps of homeless American Indians from Four Winds is another act of inequity and trauma. Chacon, a Diné, Xicana, and Filipina woman, is the co-founder of Womxn from the Mountain and the youth program development leader at Spirit of the Sun. She also is running for a seat on the Commerce City Council. “Our system isn’t broken but is working as designed to choke out and flesh out disproportionately impacted communities,” Chacon said. Chacon understands how easy it is for Native Americans to end up without a home. She has experienced homelessness, as have other members of her family. Her brother died while living on the streets. Chacon also said she thinks the City should use the money it spends on sweeps to find housing for those experiencing homelessness. “There are so many stories of us dying from systemic neglect and dying from systemic violence because the City won’t acknowledge and address these issues with adequate funding,” Chacon said. “Instead, the Mayor and the City want to sweep away the homeless, who are nothing more than a symptom of much bigger problems.” There are many guesses as to how much each sweep costs the City of Denver, but so far few absolute answers. Community activist John Staughton told the Denver Channel that his audit of the sweeps suggests each sweep costs around $21,000. In an article that ran in January 2021, The Denver Post used invoices to calculate the cost of homeless sweeps in 2020, estimating the total to be more than $400,000. By mid-2021, Denver has already surpassed the total number of sweeps completed in 2020. If Staughton’s audit is accurate, the City has also surpassed the total amount it spent on sweeps in 2020. Chacon views the money the City puts toward the sweeps as ineffective. “The City simply doesn’t care about investing in the health and safety of all the people of Denver, the poorest people of Denver,” Chacon said. “Elected officials only care about those who pay property taxes and bring economic benefits to the City.” NATIVE-PREFERENCE SAFE OUTDOOR SPACE Mateo Parsons is hoping this will be the last sweep at Four Winds because the organization is working with Colorado Village Collaborative and the City of Denver to set up a Safe Outdoor Space for indigenous people experiencing homelessness. Safe Outdoor Spaces are sanctioned campsites within the city of Denver for individuals experiencing homelessness and managed with 24/7 staffing by Colorado Village Collaborative. Plans for a Native-preference SOS are in the early phases, but Parsons has been encouraged by the response from city CREDIT: GILES CLASEN officials and is hopeful the site can be up and running within three months. It wouldn’t be the first public housing facility created in the U.S. specifically for Native Americans. California has begun creating housing for Native Americans managed by Native Americans as part of Project Homekey, a partnership between Los Angeles County and the State of California to convert buildings into permanent, long-term housing. Seattle is also building a housing facility specifically for homeless and low-income indigenous people. The Native American SOS does not seek to be a permanent housing facility like the Seattle and California programs. Instead, it would provide a first step from homelessness and create a new level of security for those living on the street. Originally as part of the Denver pandemic response, other Safe Outdoor Spaces in Denver have been successful. Still, according to Parsons, any sanctioned campsite for Native Americans seems a long way off. RESPECTING NATIVE “LIBERATED ZONES” To Parsons, the sweeps at Four Winds feel targeted against Native people. He cites two previous sweeps at Four Winds. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN No white campers received citations during these sweeps, while some Native American campers did receive them. Also, one Native American camping at the site was arrested and eagle feathers, which he used in Native ceremonies, were confiscated by police. Four Winds declares itself an American Indian “liberated zone” and may be the only communal Native land in Denver. It was founded after the Rocky Mountain Lutheran Church Synod Council gave two buildings to the Native Community of Denver. This act was inspired after Lutheran leaders visited the site of the Sand Creek Massacre. Parsons views the gift as part of the Land Back movement, which is a drive to return land taken from Native people during colonization. While Parsons acknowledges the idea of a liberated zone carries no special legal protections, he believes the land should be viewed as something sacred and that it should be respected by city officials. The land shouldn’t be barricaded and cordoned off by police. The way Parsons sees it, “[the City of Denver] is using the legal mechanisms and tools at their disposal to force us off our land in a new way.” ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN October 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL STORY MUTUAL AID MONDAY BY PAULA BARD Vans pull up to the far southwest corner of Civic Center Park on Mondays around 3 p.m. Volunteers begin unloading big pots and pans brimming with home-cooked ribs and slow-cooked chicken, mac and cheese, ham, rice and beans, sandwiches, cakes, cookies, and fruit. Folding tables are unfolded, and boxes of clothing and multiple water containers are set up. This is the scene of Mutual Aid Monday: home-cooked meals, lifesustaining supplies, and services for up to 200 people. IT ALL STARTED WITH WALL OF MOMS Last summer Jess Wiederholt, a mother of seven, came out to protest racism and police brutality. She joined the Black Lives Matter protests after George Floyd and Elijah McClain died at the hands of the police. She joined thousands of other outraged citizens all over the country, hitting the streets in the summer of 2020. Wiederholt joined the Wall of Moms, a group seeking to protect the protestors. Out on Denver’s streets, the Moms came face-to-face with what she referred to as the city’s “ugly treatment of the unhoused.” Together, they discovered a world in crisis and found a new community in the protests. They began offering support to the folks living in the tent encampments that were being decimated by the City’s early morning displacements, euphemistically called by the City “cleanups” or “sweeps.” They brought coffee at 5 a.m., as the police threw up chain link fences in the dark. The Moms then helped move unhoused folks when the dump trucks threatened to scoop up all of their worldly belongings. Wiederholt’s stereotypes quickly fell away, as she discovered that everybody has a story. CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD 8 DENVER VOICE October 2021 LOCAL STORY “I would have one couple in my van for a number of hours, trying to find them a new place to set up their camp,” Wiederholt explained. “That was my chance to get to know them. You know their life, how they got homeless and what their immediate needs are. I was very humbled, and realized truly who our unhoused neighbors were.” A Buddhist nun and member of the Kadampa Meditation Center of Denver, Kilsang virya, came to Denver initially to help care for her granddaughter, now eight years old. Kelsing also got involved with the Wall of Moms and made connections with the community that was built around the protests. She watched as the increase in the unhoused population led to as many as three or four sweeps per week upon homeless encampments. Horrified at the city’s police brutality and treatment of the unhoused, she began showing up to sweeps at the crack of dawn, moving folks to safety in her van. Along with a large contingent of supporters, she has been showing up to offer support since the summer of 2020. EVOLUTION OF MUTUAL AID MONDAY The original Wall of Moms has grown into a sizable civic support system. Mutual Aid Monday spun off when the group showed up for Denver City Council meetings on Mondays, where the Moms voiced their concerns with Denver’s treatment of its unhoused. In early November 2020, they began feeding the folks in Civic Center Park. They brought clothing and built carts, heaters, and eventually swamp coolers. They brought personal care items, backpacks, tarps, and tents. Kelsing, along with many others, now spends her Sundays baking sweetbreads and cooking enormous pots of nourishing food to serve on Monday afternoons. Over the last year, Mutual Aid Monday has blossomed into its own universe of community support for the unhoused. Members still speak to the City Council about conditions on the street. The volunteer food line serves home-cooked meals to up to 200 folks in one afternoon. Blaire Sagan, master of a mean buzzcut, sets up a haircut stand weekly. An acupuncture clinic called Natural Highs offers trauma treatments. Massage and beauty treatments are offered on spa days, complete with facials and a rainbow of nail polish choices. CREDIT: PAULA BARD Four vaccine clinics have been offered this summer in collaboration with the Denver Department of Public Health. The Harm Reduction Center has collaborated with mutual aid volunteers on NARCAN training to support the crises of overdoses. Carol Funk reliably sets up her COVID testing tent every week. Nurse-Family Partnership has recently gotten involved, offering support to those who are pregnant. Recently, the mutual aid groups introduced the game of chess and began hosting epic poetry readings. They also started offering workshops for those in need of an ID or who wish to receive their GED. The cart builders have grown into a separate organization, aptly named Scrap Works. By nature, mutual aid groups provide a place for citizens to step up and offer what they can and what is needed. “I guess, like a lot of folks, I just trusted that our elected officials were doing the right thing.” – Jess Wiederholt Citizens know best what their neighbors need, and they reach out with solidarity, not charity. Mutual aid groups have been springing to life all over the country since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Kelsing and Wiederholt, linchpins of Mutual Aid Monday, hold the view that the community is fully capable and will offer what is needed. They have made ample room for the community, and the community is energetically stepping up. ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD October 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY A PEOPLE’S HISTORY OF HOMELESSNESS IN DENVER: THE EARLY YEARS BY ROBERT DAVIS HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY were not new phenomenons in the U.S. when Denver’s first camps formed along the Platte River in 1858. Almost as soon as gold was discovered, land speculators arrived. These speculators then monopolized powers to distribute the land, leaving those who arrived without means to continue living in squalor. In turn, the speculators formed a government and thereby enshrined a system of incentives and punishments that rewards property ownership at the expense of seemingly transient residents. At the same time, Denver’s institutional approach to poverty and homelessness was solidified. The needs of those who are perceived to “pay for” municipal services are held above the needs of other groups like renters and people experiencing homelessness. Despite these events, a flame of reverence for the poor existed within many early settlers, primarily among women and the pious. However, the will of that community was slowly eroded by the forces of industry as the settlement grew to become a city. “PORT IN THE PRAIRIE SEA” Historians Stanley Dempsey and James Fell Jr. described early Denver as the “port in the prairie sea” in their book, “Mining the Summit: Colorado’s Ten Mile District, 1860-1960.” Since only pan gold was found along the Platte River, the city thus became a resource hub for miners. Early businesses in Denver included farms, manufacturers, and supply stores. As a fledgling municipal corporation in 1858, the Denver Town Company established a series of incentives and punishments in its constitution that were meant to lure individuals to the town that could help it prosper. For example, company shareholders (who we would call property owners today) were given the power to elect town officials annually, vote on new taxes and fees, revise the company constitution, and receive donations of land and building materials from the company. They were also given access to two-thirds of the 600 parcels of land in the Denver Town Company’s portfolio. In return, Denver essentially served as an agent for the businesses who operated in the city. The company was responsible for maintaining public roads and infrastructure that helped bring resources into Denver for businesses to use. It was also responsible for all record keeping of shareholder transactions and approving the sale or purchase of company land, according to its charter. However, these benefits were not available to anyone who traveled to Denver. As with most towns in the U.S. at the time, bigotry and racism pervaded the West. Because of this, non-white residents were excluded from accessing Denver’s resources and thereby created generational wealth gaps between white Denverites and all other races that can still be measured today. Individuals who were allowed to become shareholders had to follow strict rules. Shareholders were required to build a 10 DENVER VOICE October 2021 CREDIT: MARKUS PETRITZ, UNSPLASH home or business within 60 days of receiving a donated lot from the company. Otherwise, the company’s charter deemed the lots were vacant and the individual’s shares would become null and void. The company also “assessed” (taxed) businesses to maintain its public infrastructure. People who did not pay these assessments within 60 days of receiving notice lost their land and their ability to participate in the company altogether. Denver assessed $1 on all males between the ages of 21 and 55 years old except those who were employed as miners or farmers. Gambling parlors and saloons were assessed at $2.50 per table. PROSPEROUS PEOPLE Despite stories of vast wealth being created in the Rocky Mountains, the promise of gold proved to be too little to attract people to Denver. So, the city’s early boosters offered to pay for up to $100 in building expenses to those who made the trek out west, according to an early article in the Rocky Mountain News. Historical wage data shows this $100 offer would have equaled two-thirds of an average worker’s annual wages in 1859 in states where Denver settlers commonly emigrated from like Georgia and Iowa. Within six months, the Rocky Mountain News reported that Denver had erected more than 150 homes with another 100 under construction. However, the deal was made available to the wealthy as well as the indigent, which resulted in some well-to-do individuals like banker Edward H. Thomas of the bank Green, Thomas & Co. using the funds to open a bank branch in Denver. Meanwhile, those who moved to Denver found its economy was unstable, at best. Denver’s economy was primarily driven by agriculture and mining — both of which were heavily reliant on technological advances in order to be productive. Early market reports from the Rocky Mountain News show the price of commodities like flour fluctuating by as much as 10 cents per pound over a six-month period. To that end, technology offered farmers the opportunity to produce crops at sustainable economies of scale and helped miners and manufacturers produce their products safer. According to an early directory of town residents, some settlers were also inventors. For example, Samuel Adams, an attorney from Des Moines, Iowa, was credited with inventing an “amalgamator” — a machine that combined mercury with silver to help extract silver more easily. Thomas Fortune of Atchison, Kansas, invented a “steam wagon” that was used on some mine tracks, and Charles Giles invented a stamp mill to refine quartz ore. Local historian Phil Goodstein says the imbalance between Denver’s population and its housing stock came to a head in the 1870s as the city was working to industrialize its economy. He wrote in his book “Denver From the Bottom Up: From Sand Creek to Ludlow” that Denver’s pursuit of railroads to bring more resources into town resulted in “shanties [popping] up” along the railroads and in warehouse districts “leading city hall to dismiss the section as a slum. Floods sporadically washed away homes and businesses.” This area became known as “The Bottoms” which was “a haven for newly arrived immigrants,” according to research in the Western Genealogy Newsletter from the Denver Public Library (DPL). “It would be an understatement to refer to many of these communities as hard-scrabble,” the research says. “Often, whole families suffered brutal winters in poorly constructed, unheated shacks, as they had little to no money for coal or other fuels.” WOMEN AND SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS While the number of people experiencing poverty and homelessness seemed to climb with Denver’s economic output, women and social organizations led the charge to provide relief. DPL highlights the work of Dr. Laura Bancroft and a group of other women that provided health care and medical services to the city’s poor. Poor people received treatment at places referred to as “poor houses,” according to the library’s research. These houses worked to augment the demand for the city hospital. Another early anti-poverty organization was the Ladies Relief Society. It was formed in 1872 by several ladies of the Trinity Methodist Church and run by Ella Vincent, who was the wife of the pastor, Bethuel T. (B.T.) Vincent. The group aimed to provide milk for infants, reading rooms, and homes for indigent elderly women. One member of the LRS that came to be a major figure in shaping early Denver’s anti-poverty efforts was Frances Wisebart Jacobs. Shortly after joining the ranks, she began canvassing the city and saw just how widespread poverty was in Denver. She then began to stress “soap above everything,” according to Goodstein. Eventually, Jacobs became a “onewoman social work corps” who also helped found Denver’s first free kindergarten, which served as a daycare center for working mothers. Early advocates of public education also sought to instill a culture where parents kept their children from living on the streets of Denver “whether through pride, poverty, or indifference,” according to an early edition of the Rocky Mountain News. The newspaper ran a few articles imploring the community to “help raise the children” when their parents proved incapable. Meanwhile, social lodges such as the Elks, Masons, Woodmen of the World, and Knights of Pythias served as the early social safety net for many settlers. For example, Denver had an especially strong Masonic presence, according to Goodstein. The temple included some of Denver’s most famous settlers such as territorial governor John Evans, William Byers of the Rocky Mountain News, real estate broker Walter Cheesman, and former Colorado Governor John Routt. However, not every race was represented equally among the social lodges, either. Goodstein found that only four or five social lodges catered to Blacks, Asian Americans, or PAGE TITLE Catholics that lived in Denver at the time, despite there being nearly 70 other social organizations for whites. UNDERCURRENT WASHES OUT According to Goodstein, the numerous charitable and antipoverty organizations in Denver earned the city a national reputation for its social climate. In turn, Goodstein writes that other states would literally bus their impoverished to Denver to receive services. Several church congregations also banded together to help the city’s poor. Pastors such as Myron W. Reed, who preached at the First Congregational Church in Denver during the 1870s, would tell his well-to-do audience to support antipoverty causes, which can “quell revolutionary upheavals,” according to a report by the Rocky Mountain News. However, Denver’s robust social services system and the individualistic needs of an agrarian and domestic manufacturing economy didn’t mix well. This juxtaposition created an undercurrent of resentment against those who were seen as simply “emptying the stores” of supplies that other, more productive Denverites might need, according to news reports. Similarly, B.T. Vincent gave a sermon at Trinity Methodist where he said the only way to treat the “moral ill of poverty is with kindness.” However, one listener published a rebuttal in the Rocky Mountain News the following day saying the masses of Denver “are too matter-of-fact” to understand such abstract reasoning. Those who were successful saw the city as a testament to the human spirit. Founded some 500 miles from the Kansas Territory capital of Topeka, Denver was known as an outlaw’s paradise. An article from The Daily Herald sums up the views of many of Denver’s early settlers: “When we consider the numerous difficulties with which it has been necessary to contend — difficulty of access, of materials, and supplies — we doubt whether the Anglo-Saxon race, with all its boasted triumphs, has yet to achieve anything which compares to Denver City,” it reads. News reports suggest this sense of pride in Denver City pervaded the local business community at the time. Meanwhile, people in poverty emerged as tricksters who were perceived to be seeking the riches of the successful miners, manufacturers, and farmers. An obituary for a noted horse thief named “Pendergrast” accused the person of using “the guise of poverty” to defraud their victims. As one writer in the Rocky Mountain News so eloquently surmised: “If a person is too poor to support a government with taxes, then they are too poor to need government at all.” The same article continues: “Such persons can have no property worth protection, and the lives of such povertystricken individuals are never in danger, unless they should be the drunken brawlers of the streets of Denver.” Denver’s first property tax assessors were also told to exclude those who seemed to be so impoverished that it was unlikely that they could contribute any property taxes, which further added to the sentiment of distrust. Eventually the undercurrent that helped support Denver’s impoverished slowly settled as the expeditious needs of Denver’s industrious class continuously outweighed the social needs of the city’s poor. Some of the city’s first ordinances restricted the sale of bootleg liquor and gambling on the sidewalks, as they were a threat to more legitimized competitors. Following the economic downturns at the end of the 19th Century, Denver would work to instill a culture of industrious productivity among its people. To that end, Denver found champions in the moguls who molded the city into what it is today. ■ 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org HABEEL HARNEY IT’S JUST CRIMINAL I dreaded closing my eyes Not to be knowing I would miss anything But knowing I would have to wake to the same thing Eventually after the war Of who was in charge You latch shut with paddle locks Everything still echoing For there is no peace Blackness arrives with surprising comfort Silence followed creeping through the souls Still I am in darkness Why was I distill Waiting like patient capture For the blackness to command. WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP D. GLORSO SMELL THE CLEAN AIR Smell the clean air of morning As the sun rises bright Morn no more When sorrow grieves the eyes Look away just for a moment Relax the tension in your mind Think of better times past Imagine a life of only good If one can think it Calm again is possible Listen for the calling of love Sweet acts of friendships past Can be repeated in the mind Believe in smiles ever so slight They carry with them hope Laughter needs parted lips Relax the jaws of pain Search the room for objects of joys The cup from which a lover drank Memories sparkle in the home When unity was the norm As with time the world will turn From grief to joys again October 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS IT’S OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR I KNOW, SELF. Sometimes, we are a mess. Life can be hard. Sometimes, our Self believes that if we have to ask for help, we are weak. We’re made to feel like a fool. We’re told to suck it up, get over it. Self, if you are not happy with your life, no matter what you are going through, ASK FOR HELP! There should be no shame in asking. We all need help! No one can do life all alone .We need others in our life, and if the people around will not help you, or even care about what’s going on RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA with you, then they are not for you. Only true friends would want you to get help. When you don’t ask for help, you only suffer. You will stay trapped, and it will only get worse over time! Life can be great, but when you feel overwhelmed, or that joy is gone from Self, they you must ask for help! People around you are not mind readers. Asking for help is a great gift to Self, so ask for help! You are worth it. ■ FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org Become a Denver VOICE subscriber and get the paper delivered directly to your mailbox every month. Both personal and business subscriptions are available. Your donation goes directly to support our program! 12 DENVER VOICE October 2021 EVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES DENVER WALKING TOURS Set out on this popular urban walking tour, stopping to learn the history and stories behind the city’s top destinations and landmarks. Tour takes about 2 – 2.5 hours. WHEN: Daily at 10 a.m. COST: Pay-what-you-wish tipping model WHERE: Colorado State Capitol, 200 E. Colfax Ave. MORE INFO: denverfreewalkingtours.com PUMPKIN HARVEST FESTIVAL Celebrate the arrival of fall at this annual family-friendly event. Guests can enjoy live music, seasonal treats, axe throwing, tractor rides, pioneer games, and crafts. WHEN: Oct 1, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m., Oct. 2, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Oct. 3, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. COST: $8 - 16 per person; children 6 and under are free. Advanced tickets purchases are strongly encouraged. WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest Street MORE INFO: fourmilepark.org ACROSS ROOFTOP YOGA Reconnect with yourself at this donation-based, rooftop yoga class. Bring your own mat and water bottle – all levels are welcome! WHEN: Oct. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. COST: By donation. WHERE: Briar Common Brewery + Eatery, 2298 Clay Street MORE INFO: facebook.com/briarcommon MUSIC IN THE GALLERIES: THE PATTERSON/SUTTON DUO Enjoy live music as you wander the galleries with performances by The Patterson/Sutton Duo at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. For the health and wellbeing of our community, all visitors ages 3+ are required to wear face coverings inside the museum. WHEN: Oct. 10, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. COST: Free with museum admission, $6 – $10 WHERE: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. MORE INFO: clyffordstillmuseum.org HABLA SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB This new Spanish Conversation Club is hosted by the Museo de las Americas. While it is intended for members of the museum, non-members can attend their first session for free to learn more and practice their Spanish! WHEN: Oct. 13 and 27, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. COST: No cost for members and first-time participants. WHERE: Wah Gwaan Brewing Company, 925 W. 8th Ave. MORE INFO: facebook.com/MuseoDenver 1. Like some hair 5. Scarecrow stuffing 10. Computer command 14. Certain cookie 15. “...there ___ such a clatter...” 16. Nile bird 17. The supreme Supreme 18. Lively baroque dance 19. Cold cuts, e.g. 20. Excessive 23. Process of elimination? 24. Common Market inits. 25. Roll out of bed 28. Beverages 30. Quarantine 32. Oolong, for one 33. “___ rang?” 34. Bar topic 35. Received Pronunciation 40. Baking measure 41. Beef au ___ 42. Balloon filler 43. Certain cryptocurrency 46. Louisiana language 49. Certain nursery rhyme runaway 50. Sundial figure 52. Lawn ornament 54. Entrenched 57. UN flight org. 59. Old Roman port 60. Sparkling wine of Italy 61. Mongrel 62. Golf course shouts 63. Portland college 64. At liberty 65. Poet Robert 66. Gaelic language DOWN 1. Inferior 2. “See you ___” 3. Evening prayer 4. National park in the Sierra Nevadas 5. It’s a long story 6. Biblical dozen 7. Scoundrel 8. Capital of Paraguay 9. Do some gardening 10. British fruitcake eaten at Easter 11. Instigations, for instance 12. By way of 13. Guinness suffix 21. Hindu queen (Var.) 22. “Give it ___!” 26. 2002 Winter Olympics locale 27. Church bench 29. Japanese writing system 31. Dearie 33. Word on a Ouija board 35. Bon mot 36. Current 37. Glare blocker 38. Feudal lord 39. Heavy pots and pans 40. “The Twilight Zone” network 44. Wild animal sometimes seen in Portland 45. It’s next to nothing 46. Dickens title pair 47. Less tight 48. Is melodramatic 51. Foreword, for short 53. Drop in pronunciation 55. Remove, as a hat 56. “...why ___ thou forsaken me?” 57. World banking grp. 58. Scoundrel COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 October 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org October 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

n fighting Pints poverty a fundraiser r 2 C 0 2 i - 1 o s P NOVEMBER 18, 2021 THURSDAY, 6-10 P.M. | STARTS AT STRANGE CRAFT BREWING The Denver VOICE’s annual Pints Fighting Poverty Pub Crawl is a fun opportunity to show support for those in our community experiencing homelessness and/or poverty, gain insight into the realities, and make an impact by helping us raise the funds to continue to provide economic, education, and empowerment opportunities for those we have the privilege of serving! Happening during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the evening kicks off at Strange Craft Brewing with a special guest speaker, and includes three stops and a host of exclusive drink specials at some of Denver’s premier brewery and spirit locations! 100% of proceeds raised go toward our mission 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. DENVERVOICE.ORG/ PINTSFIGHTINGPOVERTY n u b r a w l e p

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Denver, ARE YOU LISTENING? DHOL’S “SWEPT TO NOWHERE” REPORT ASKS DENVER TO REDIRECT ITS PRACTICES TOWARD HEALTH EQUITY AND ATTAINABLE HOUSING INSTEAD OF SWEEPS THAT DO NOT WORK. PAGE 8 CARE WORKERS NEED HELP, TOO TO GIVE BETTER CARE TO THE ELDERLY, WORKERS NEED TO BE TREATED BETTER. PAGE 4 TO DEGREE OR NOT TO DEGREE? COLLEGE AND POSTCOLLEGE DEGREES ARE EXPENSIVE, BUT ARE THEY WORTH THE INVESTMENT? PAGE 10 A PLACE TO CALL HOME AUSTRALIA’S POST-PANDEMIC HOUSING CRISIS PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 SEPTEMBER 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 9 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: CREDIT: PAULA BARD

EDITOR’S NOTE IN JULY, I celebrated my second anniversary as the managing editor of the Denver VOICE. ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR Taking a look behind the scenes here, our board of directors, Executive Director Jennifer Seybold and Program Coordinator Anthony Cornejo put in time and effort to keep the paper and our vendor program running smoothly. Even in the middle of a pandemic, we continue to thrive as an organization thanks to the generous support of our donors. When it comes to the editorial side, one of the core reasons we have grown as a street paper is the work our contributors put into researching and writing about the people, policies, and activities that impact those experiencing housing instability. I’m fortunate to work with an excellent team of freelance reporters and photographers, Paula Bard, Giles Clasen, Robert Davis, Cat Evans, and Doug Hrdlicka. They may not contribute to every issue, but each of these contributors diligently seeks out stories on the people, community leaders, and others, who either may be hindering any progress to mitigate homelessness or strive to lift up those experiencing homelessness or housing instability. It is because of our talented graphic designer, Hannah Bragg, that the VOICE is a visually compelling newspaper. While our contributors do receive some compensation, it is minimal. They work with the VOICE because they believe in our mission of empowering our vendors by providing them with a source of income. The result is a street paper that tells the stories of those whose lives are impacted by poverty and homelessness. Because I haven’t done so in a while, I’d like to acknowledge and thank Cat, Doug, Giles, Hannah, Paula, and Robert. It is your work and talent that make the VOICE a paper we can be proud of. ■ September CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes and covers stories on people and organizations who often are overlooked. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Haven Enterman Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Cat Evans WRITERS 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 4,000 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. 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. John Alexander Paula Bard Cat Evans Doug Hrdlicka Raelene Johnson Benjamin Eric Nelson Pete Simon BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Jeff Cuneo, Treasurer Zephyr Wilkins, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson 2 DENVER VOICE September 2021 STAFF STAFF BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: NATE BY PAULA BARD I LOST MY JOB IN MARCH, when Covid hit. I had a custodial job. But I was low man on the totem pole. I worked in restaurants, bars. Kind of my own business. Freelance. They couldn’t keep me because they could find someone cheaper. I was already homeless when I lost the job. I was also a professional magician and also a musician. I charged $150 an hour when I was a magician, but that was before Covid. I play bass, drums, piano, guitar. Started out in high school with the clarinet, and then I played French Horn. I played in the jazz band, honor band, and marching band. I was the second chair. I helped out in the school cafeteria, but the school bully messed with me. I defended myself. I got kicked out of school. I still play music with church bands and those outside pianos. Grew up in Alaska and California. I have family in Colorado Springs. My parents don’t approve of my lifestyle; I am an alcoholic. Beer is legal. I have heart problems and lung disease. I got Covid, but it wasn’t that bad. I didn’t vote this last time. I have voted, but the people I voted for don’t take care of me. What am I supposed to do? Where am I supposed to go? ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those our city has abandoned. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 193 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. September 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS CARE WORKERS FOR ELDERLY NEED BETTER TREATMENT TO ENSURE BETTER CARE BY DOUG HRDLICKA NURSING HOME RESIDENT RECEIVES A SHOT OF COVID-19 VACCINE AT KING DAVID CENTER FOR NURSING AND REHABILITATION, A NURSING HOME FACILITY, IN BROOKLYN’S BATH BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD IN NEW YORK CITY. CREDIT: REUTERS/YUKI IWAMURA COMING UP WITH SOLUTIONS For care workers whose job is to serve the elderly, their jobs entail more than taking care of older people. Not only must they serve those who may not be able to handle their own basic needs, but they also face physical challenges, long hours, and emotionally-draining work. Melissa Marts is the program development administrator at Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Area, or PPACG. Part of her job is coming up with solutions to everyday tasks some elderly people may not be equipped to solve due to restricted mobility or finances. It could be as simple as organizing a ride, as was the case for a mother and daughter Marts works with. Both women have macular degeneration, a disease that affects their vision. The daughter, who is 60, also suffers from a number of disabilities that restrict her from being able to fulfill daily tasks such as cleaning. The mother is similarly unable to help with those chores. What’s most pressing is the women’s financial challenges. Five years ago, the father died, leaving the property to his wife and daughter. He was the one who took care of the finances and upkeep of the property. The two women grieved for years after his passing, and the responsibilities began to slip. The mother and daughter verged on homelessness before the pandemic paused foreclosures. This story of the mother and daughter is not a fringe scenario, but instead it’s a part of a reality that is quite common. Those who are renting may find their situations even more difficult. For them, the difference between being housed and homeless may be triggered by something as simple as a rent increase. To add to their plight, long-term facilities that accept Medicaid are in short supply and often have a waiting list. “Literally you will find older adults and other individuals on the streets, homeless because they qualify for Medicaid, but they can’t get into a long-term care because there are just so few facilities that take Medicaid,” Marts said. What’s more, elderly people who do not have stable housing often struggle to find roommates because of their age. “Nobody wants a 70-year-old man to move in with them,” said Marts. “Nobody wants a 62-year old woman who has a hard time walking and is on oxygen to move in with them.” There are solutions and people out there who want to help, but for them, it too can be a struggle. This is certainly true for direct care workers. IN NEED OF EMOTIONAL SUPPORT Pascale Adou is a CNA who is also a member of the Direct Care Workforce Collaborative that was formed to advocate for better working conditions for long-term and direct care workers. “The importance and impact direct care workers have on the community is huge. Every day, we have 10,000 people in the country that turn 65 years old, meaning they may need to be taken care of,” said Adou. “Even in the home hospital, HEALTHCARE EDUCATOR RAINELLE WHITE (REAR) CHECKS THE WEIGHT OF CLIENT NORMA FERGUSON IN THE FAMILY VAN IN BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS. CREDIT: REUTERS/BRIAN SNYDER 4 DENVER VOICE September 2021 nursing home long-term facility, they may need care, and we have a big turnover of direct care workforce,” said Adou. The job of direct care and long-term care workers is to provide for elderly who have become too disadvantaged by their age to maintain all aspects of their life. The work is 24 hours a day and can range from basic household needs to bathing and dressing. The job also demands so much from the care worker. Watching people as they reach the end of their lives can weigh on a person over time. “If they don’t have emotional support, they might not be able to provide the care for the consumer. If you’re not emotionally OK, how can you provide care?” Adou asked. BETTER CARE, BETTER JOBS Stressing the poor conditions some care workers face, Adou noted one employee who made as little as $8.75 an hour. But, according to Adou, what’s been most strenuous on these employees is the treatment they’ve received during the pandemic from direct care agencies. “Some of the direct care workforce quit because they were seeing the lives at risk,” explained Adou. “This means they were going to work and using paper towels to cover their noses; they were using kitchen gloves to give enemas to their clients. They saw their lives at risk and also that they were risking the clients’ lives because they had no PPE.” Adou and the Direct Care Workforce Collaborative want these agencies that take advantage of their employees to value them and show that by paying them a livable wage with benefits. But today, there is little the care workers can do, which is why Adou and the Collaborative are pushing the Better Care Better Jobs Act, a bill that will give these workers leverage to negotiate for better conditions. “Direct care workers need to be paid a livable wage, and we need to fight to do that,” said Adou. “We need to get the state legislators together to look into that bill, and that’s what we are doing.” Adou and Marts have partnered to try and bring positive change to the challenges elderly people and their caretakers face, but for now, the situation remains bleak. As Marts explained, “On the terrible end of the spectrum, care workers end up scrambling, calling everyone, trying to find some place for an older adult to live. That happens a lot.” ■ SUMMER WISH LIST Q A NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Reusable water bottles Sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Umbrellas that can fit into a backpack Gloves Backpacks Ponchos & windbreakers (Men’s L, XL, XXL) ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. What is something you want people to know about the reality of homelessness? JOHN ALEXANDER I wish I could share all the harsh realities of being homeless. To be hungry, cold, no place to rest your body and get a good night’s sleep. No security for yourself. These are a lot of the most common realities that come to mind. But, I would tell people the one reality to know about homelessness, and the one thing that homeless people value and long for the most, is every day, one-on-one, common acknowledgment. Tomorrow, next week, or just the next time you may cross paths with a homeless person, and he smiles your way, says hello, or wishes you a good day, remember, he is most likely reaching out for no more than he is trying to give – acknowledgment. RAELENE JOHNSON I’d like people to know they are wrong if they think homeless people like the way they live and are lazy. Some of the homeless were runaways, who never had much of a chance to survive hard knocks. Some had medical bills they couldn’t pay, and that made them homeless. The longer someone is homeless, the harder it gets to be able to get their own [home]. It’s costs more to be homeless when it comes to eating, using restrooms, getting ticketed because you are sleeping in the wrong place... If the body can’t sleep, it starts to break down. Homelessness shouldn’t be a crime. JERRY ROSEN Homelessness is when one does not make enough money on a job to afford housing. Homelessness is when one cannot afford housing or is unable to save money for different things. A person wants to save money so they can live somewhere, or with family or a friend. 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. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. August 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

INTERNATIONAL STORY A PLACE TO CALL HOME: AUSTRALIA’S POST-PANDEMIC HOUSING CRISIS When COVID struck last year, more than 40,000 Australians were housed in emergency accommodation. The Big Issue Australia asks, where are they now? BY MELISS FULTON “IT’S JUST BEEN LIKE, ‘IS THIS FOR REAL?’” says single mum and Big Issue vendor Jannah on the moment she found out she’d been accepted for transitional housing in Perth. “It was an enormous relief. It was like, ‘Wow! A place to call home.’” Over the phone, Jannah sounds relaxed, positive, happy. It’s Thursday when we talk, and she just moved in on Monday – to a humble three-bedroom home with a front gate and some friendly neighborhood birds, including a cheeky mudlark that visits every day. Already, Dakota*, Jannah’s 10-year-old daughter, has turned her bedroom into a TikTok studio, complete with LED lights. “She’s done her own bedroom, her own little design,” says Jannah. It’s been a long road for the two of them. In August last year, Dakota was diagnosed with a tumor in her foot. She was booked in for surgery and they were staying at Ronald McDonald House when they got the news from their landlord that they were being evicted. Since then, they’ve been homeless, bounced around between boarding houses, hotels, and other crisis accommodation. They did three different two-week placements at Perth’s Beatty Lodge, and a few hotel stays – some of which cost Jannah $130 a night, a huge portion of her income support payments. They lived in a share house for a while but that didn’t work out. Jannah says that if she had a car, they would have slept in it. Jannah and Dakota were able to get help in the short term, from emergency housing providers, but when it came to secure long-term accommodation, there was just nowhere to go; there were no suitable rentals available, no social housing. We’re in the throes of a housing crisis. Jannah and Dakota are among the 155,000-plus households on waiting lists for social and public housing nationwide. “It’s really, really tough out there,” says Jenny Smith, CEO of the Council to Homeless Persons, which cites a lack of affordable housing as the single biggest cause of homelessness in this country – a problem that has only increased since the onset of the pandemic. So how did we get here? One of the few silver linings of COVID was that it put the right to housing back on the agenda. Nationwide, when the pandemic struck, governments snapped into action, adopting a public health response to homelessness, securing and funding emergency short-term accommodation for Australians without a safe, secure place to call home – mostly in hotels and student accommodation. A UNSW study found that some 40,000 Australians in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland were given emergency accommodation between mid-March and September last year. JobKeeper payments and the doubling of JobSeeker, coupled with eviction moratoriums and restrictions on rental increases helped stave off disaster, protecting vulnerable Australians against the pandemic. It suggested a solution to homelessness was possible. The problem is that even before the pandemic, we were in a state of crisis. More than 116,000 Australians are homeless on any given night, and 15,800 of them are children under 12, like Dakota. In the 12 months before COVID, some 290,000 people received support from homelessness services, an increase of 14% in four years, while another 250 people were turned away by emergency homelessness services each night due to a shortage of beds and a system buckling under the weight of demand. Now, with the winding back of many of the temporary crisis supports, coupled with the continued social and economic costs of the virus, we’re facing a substantial risk of increasing homelessness, according to a University of Melbourne study – especially among young people. Of those 40,000 people given emergency accommodation during the pandemic, only onethird transitioned into more permanent housing. ILLUSTRATION BY MICHEL STREICH 6 DENVER VOICE September 2021 INTERNATIONAL STORY Following the recent lockdowns in NSW and Victoria, ACOSS reported that the demand for emergency relief services has increased by more than 800%. “Requests for food, emergency relief, and financial support have spiked significantly during lockdowns, while demand for housing support, mental health, and family violence services have been increasing steadily over the course of the pandemic and are now at record levels,” says David Spriggs, CEO of Infoxchange Group, which operates Ask Izzy, a mobile app that connects people in need with services. “I would say I’ve observed in my personal interactions that people are inclined to think that something’s been done about homelessness, that homelessness has been solved, if you like, by the short-term hotel response,” says Jenny Smith. “And I’ve had to let them know that actually the fundamentals in our country have not changed in the slightest. We’ve missed a huge opportunity not to have a national initiative in relation to social housing.” “I sleep where I work – right out the front of 7-Eleven,” says Big Issue vendor Nathan from Brisbane. “As a homeless person, male or female, it’s safety first. And because I work there as well during the day, it’s a lot more plausible for me to actually sleep there. Because you never know, someone might actually turn up and say ‘Hey, I’ve got a room available here. You can stay here, or here’s a feed.’ It’s little things.” When I call Nathan, he’s just checked into a hotel room. They charge a weekly rate of $300 a room, and he springs for it when he can. He’s been on the waiting list for social housing for 10-plus years. In that time, he’s slept rough, on couches, and in a boarding house. When Brisbane was locked down earlier this year, he was put up in a hotel by Micah Projects, but when lockdown finished, he no longer had a roof over his head, and he was back to sleeping on his pitch. “It’s more stressful than anything else, you know?” says Nathan of living homeless. “And when you’re stressed out like that, and you’re trying to get a place, it does take it out of you – you’re exhausted.” It’s clear, Australia’s housing system isn’t working for everyone. With real-estate prices soaring to record highs, it’s locking people out of homeownership. Just 50% of households aged 25-55 are expected to own a home by 2040, compared to 60% in 1981, according to the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute. For young people, the news is even worse: for those in the 25-to-34 bracket, homeownership dropped by 28% between 2002 and 2015, to around 45%. “We’re seeing a wealth-creation event for the haves who can afford to buy another property at the moment,” says Jenny Smith. “But for people on low incomes, it’s a difference between being able to just put a roof over your head, and not.” a single person on JobSeeker ($620.80 per fortnight). For those on Youth Allowance ($512.50 per fortnight), there were none. Without more affordable homes, the options are limited for those struggling to afford private rents. Over 1.5 million Australians are living with housing stress, stretched by rent or mortgage payments totaling more than 30% of their income. It’s why housing bodies and homelessness providers are calling on all levels of government to invest in affordable and social housing to meet the shortfall of 600,000 homes needed to satisfy national demand. “[Social housing] is an asset to the community and it provides jobs,” adds Smith. “Providing social housing and increasing the JobSeeker payment [means] people can live, and we’re not all just bouncing people around temporary outcomes.” The pandemic has prompted governments to consider long-term housing solutions. At the end of last year, the Victorian state government announced its $5.3 billion “Big Housing Build”, which aims to create 12,000 homes in four years, with 9300 of these being social housing. New South Wales has allocated $812 million to social housing and homelessness services, including a pledge to build 800 social housing dwellings. Meanwhile, back at Jannah and Dakota’s place, they’ve ILLUSTRATION BY MICHEL STREICH With more than a third of us now renting, demand has meant rental properties are less affordable than ever. Across the country, the median rent of houses and units has increased 6.6% over the last 12 months. In regional areas, it’s even more extreme: rents have surged by 11.3% – the biggest hike on record – as tree-changers flee the city during the pandemic. In Perth, where Jannah and her daughter live, the median rent jumped 16.7%. It’s perhaps unsurprising that Anglicare Australia’s latest Rental Affordability Snapshot found that of the 74,226 rental listings across the country on a given weekend in March, only three were affordable for been sleeping better, getting up early, and starting to build a routine, alive to all the simple pleasures that come with a stable home. “It’s so good to cook a meal again!” says Jannah. “Like last night, I could use an oven instead of a fry pan.” She made Dakota’s favorite Dino snacks. “I’m looking forward to stability, getting back on track. Hopefully, we can get some pets here – Dakota’s asked our Salvation Army caseworker if we can get a chicken coop and some chickens.” Dakota’s recovering well and is happy to be back at school, and Jannah’s looking forward to getting back to her studies too – she’s working towards Certificate III in Social Work, Community Services, and Domestic and Family Violence. “This is for real now,” says Jannah. “I’ve got my little humble home. A place to call home, I call it.” ■ Courtesy of The Big Issue Australia / INSP.ngo * Name changed FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org September 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL FEATURE in Denver’s frigid winter temperatures. Dehydration and heat stroke arrive with the blazing summer heat. At least 222 people died on Denver’s streets during 2020. Daily life for them is laced with drug overdoses, rapes, assaults, and increasingly now, shootings. Street life can take 30 years off an individual’s life span, according to the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. Officially, CDC guidelines require that unless housing options are available, encampments should be left in place and provided with sanitation resources, including bathrooms, hand washing stations, and hand sanitizer. Denver does not provide adequate services or trash collection. The inevitable accumulation of trash and human waste causes ongoing, acrimonious friction with neighborhoods surrounding the growing tent encampments. There are only eight public restrooms in central Denver and only one of them is available at night, according to Denverite. DENVER, WHY? This ugly cat and mouse game has only intensified over the last year as more and more people have lost jobs and apartments and are tumbling onto the street. Denver has conducted more sweeps in response to the growing numbers. This creates even more trauma and more suffering for a vulnerable population. Many of Denver’s citizens have witnessed this escalating, repetitive abuse of the unhoused. They have responded by offering support and speaking out. Volunteers with mutual aid groups feed the unhoused and march for them. They help move their belongings during sweeps, pour them hot coffee at 5:30 a.m., provide clothing, solace, and compassion. The community is increasingly vocal in asking about the CREDIT: PAULA BARD DENVER, ARE YOU LISTENING? BY PAULA BARD THE UNHOUSED SCATTER in front of the large mobilized police force – there to perform a sweep of the encampment. At 4:30 a.m., chain link fences are thrown up while dump trucks and Bobcats begin to munch up tents, survival gear, and precious family photos. Despite this show of force, over the next few days, many of the unhoused migrate back. They have run out of options. There is nowhere else to go. In 2020 the City of Denver conducted 34 of these socalled “sweeps.” In 2021, Denver had already conducted 56 sweeps by the end of June. The City generally conducts three or four sweeps per week, often returning repeatedly to the same blocks because the unhoused inevitably drift back. The advocacy not accomplishing anything, much less connecting people to services or getting people into housing. Many respondents of “Swept to Nowhere” stated that they “just wanted to know where they could be.” People staying at encampments and on the streets are desperate to know where they can stay without being swept or treated as criminals. The report showed that the concerns of the unhoused, the housed, and businesses are very much aligned. Respondents elaborated, “Everyone wants an answer to the question of where we can be. Everyone knows human beings cannot just disappear, but there is no honesty about this reality.” Sweeping human beings is an ugly and grueling process. group, Allies To Abolitionists, researched the economics of the city’s sweeps, or “violent displacements,” as they call them. They found that Denver spends $21,000 in city resources for each one. Over the course of a year, this adds up to a substantial expenditure for the city. Denver Homeless Out Loud, another local advocacy group, recently conducted a survey and released the subsequent report, “Swept to Nowhere: Experiences and Recommendations from Unhoused People During the Covid-19 Pandemic.” They found that 70.4% of respondents eventually returned to the same location from which they had been swept. Therefore, they point out that sweeps are It terrorizes the already fragile poor, adding trauma and more loss to marginal lives steeped in suffering. “Swept to Nowhere” reports that 72.6% of respondents reported having property taken in a sweep. Property seizure puts the unhoused in further danger by forcing them to sleep with no protection from the elements or to stay in a friend’s tent, which can leave them vulnerable to assault, rape, or abuse. They then have to spend days trying to replace basic necessities, like clothes or blankets, and months trying to replace food stamp cards or IDs. Even without the threat of constant sweeps, living on the streets in Denver involves a constant struggle to survive. Frostbite, including the loss of fingers and toes, is normal CREDIT: PAULA BARD purpose of these sweeps. The advocates, the mutual aid groups, and the unhoused all ask, “Why?” Social service organizations ask for a solution: housing. Denver’s Department of Housing Stability (HOST), highlights the importance of affordable housing. Why then, Denver, are these repetitive, cruel sweeps not leading to the goal of housing? Tess Dougherty, a local activist, spoke at the August Denver City Council hearing. She closed her commentary by repeating the phrase, “Denver tortures its poor,” a full 60 times. “I am among many other residents of the City of Denver, who have been coming to City Council week after week, for over a year, calling on them to stop the traumatic displacement of people experiencing homelessness. Each sweep is a serious human rights violation, according to the UN’s definition.” 8 DENVER VOICE September 2021 LOCAL FEATURE ACTIVISTS MARCH TO THE MLB GAME ACTIVISTS AGAINST THE SWEEPS staged a march from Curtis Park toward Coors Field, but “We’ve seen that trauma and that violence on a they were CREDIT: PAULA BARD DENVER’S HUMANITARIAN CRISES BY THE NUMBERS There are alarming numbers of citizens who are priced out of housing in Denver. Census data reveals that Denver grew 19.2% between 2010 and 2020, adding 115,000 residents. As a result, the recent five year strategic plan released by HOST claims that Denver has a shortage of nearly 19,000 rental units for the extremely low-income earners, those earning $21,000 yearly; a shortage of 20,000 rental units for those earning $35,000 yearly; a shortage of more than 11,000 rental unit for those earning $42,000 yearly. This adds up to a shortage of 50,000 rental units. HOST states that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the housing crisis, pointing out that, “Median rent spiked 78% over the past decade, far outpacing wages. Denver’s unemployment quadrupled, requests for rent and utility assistance increased 270%. Now, more than 250,000 Coloradans are behind on their rent and mortgage payments.” According to the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, at the beginning of 2020, there were 6,104 unhoused people in Denver, with 1,561 of them unsheltered. But over the last year and a half, according to the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, homelessness and housing instability have increased dramatically during this public health emergency. Denver has housed 2,000 temporarily in hotel rooms and 6,000 in shelters, plus 100 in the two SOS sanctioned camping sites. and 33 in tiny home villages. A CHALLENGE FOR DENVER Among the high-level themes identified in the plan is the need for more affordable housing, more quickly, with embedded support services and fewer restrictions. To get there, we must shift from being reactive and scarcity-driven to a proactive, outcome-based approach. “Swept to Nowhere” asks Denver specifically to “redirect practices toward health equity and attainable housing instead of sweeps that do not work.” They further ask for leadership from Denver as to where the houseless community should go while housing is created. As they put it, “Ultimately, homelessness ends with a home.” The “Swept to Nowhere” report concludes with, “We are facing unprecedented times together. The challenge of a COVID world has exacerbated the number of unhoused residents throughout our nation. Many of the standard solutions for homelessness have proven ineffective. But humans have a resounding ability to adapt. This is our challenge.” ■ blocked by the Denver Police Department before reaching the ballpark. They were repeatedly told they could walk single file down the sidewalk. DPD then kept blocking the march, pushing the marchers further to the East. Virya Kelsing, a Tibetan Buddhist nun, was thrown to the ground while following instructions to proceed single file down the sidewalk. The group finally broke up their march and set their sign-bearing tents up at the State Capitol. A few persevered and made it to the MLB game, their original destination. Was Denver listening? Sweeps continued unabated, with three more sweeps conducted that week. weekly basis.” Wren, an activist and service provider, said about the sweeps. “They’re constantly under stress, people are constantly getting moved around. They’re constantly losing everything they own. Every single sweep that I have been at, at least one person lost everything they own. This happened to a friend of mine. And she called me afterward, in tears. She was sobbing, she was suicidal, talked about wanting to kill herself, because she lost medications, she lost important documents, she lost irreplaceable family mementos. And that’s the kind of trauma that we’re talking about here, three times a week.” ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREATIVE SUGGESTIONS FROM THE NEIGHBORS How about buying up all those hotels for sale and putting the unhoused to work, converting them into small apartments? How about hiring the unhoused to rehab all those old, unused school buildings sitting empty in Denver? How about rehabbing some of those dead malls? How about building villages out on the plains in Eastern Colorado? More camping sites? More parking lots for RV living? How about converting parking garages to camping sites? CREDIT: PAULA BARD September 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY TO DEGREE, OR NOT TO DEGREE BY CAT EVANS THE WEBSITE EDUCATIONDATA.ORG ESTIMATES that there are 43.2 million student borrowers in the United States, averaging $39,351 owed per person. Accumulated debt totals $1.73 trillion and grows six times faster than the nation’s economy. The average public student borrows $30,030 to attain a bachelor’s degree. The great debate of the value of a bachelor’s degree in modern times is frequent: is it worth the investment? “I was the first generation to graduate and actually go to college. I felt like it was very important for me to do that, more for my family’s sake,” said Donnie Aguilar, a college graduate. “I studied psychology because I really wanted to understand people and to help people. That being said, I don’t think it was necessary. I sort of feel like it hindered me in a way — it’s really expensive. If I had more money I would go back, but I see a lot of opportunity outside of it.” Currently, Aguilar works in the entertainment and food service industries and has yet to find a direct path alongside his major. Many lucrative opportunities with a bachelor’s in psychology are presented once a student move forward with a master’s program. In an article published by Northeastern University, Tim “Master’s degree holders Stobierski wrote, earn nearly $13,000 more per year than four-year-degree holders.” This bump translates to an average of $77,844 per year, with an unemployment rate of 2%. Compare that to a yearly income of $38,792 for individuals who did not complete any form of higher education beyond a high school diploma. Mariana Sesserman graduated from Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo., for a degree in exercise science, with an emphasis in administration. “Nowadays, it’s not valuable. It’s pigeonholed and limited. The problem is there are no jobs to apply for,” Sesserman said. “It’s not even that I’m applying and getting the door shut in my face; there’s just no demand for this type of employment, especially after COVID. I’m going back for my master’s to pair my MBA with my bachelor’s degree. Really, I feel with a bachelor’s, you get those to further them into a master’s or a doctorate. It doesn’t necessarily benefit you to just get a bachelor’s, at least not for me; I’m literally selling cell phones right now.” Before COVID and while living in a smaller city, Sesserman started an LLC and was able to open a volleyball club in Durango after graduating from college. Once she moved to Denver, that changed. “The lack of demand and larger population made that more difficult,” explained Sesserman. “To me, I knew it was probably going to take an additional $30,000 and four years down the road to make that degree beneficial.” A company geared toward assisting students in paying off their loans, studentloadnhero.com, states that the average cost of a public master’s degree is $30,000 annually. Private school graduate students spend an average of $40,000 per year on tuition and fees. Prices vary depending on focus of the degree and which school the student attended. For example, educationdata.org, says a master’s of education typically costs $55,200, while according to besteducationdegrees.com, the average salary for an 10 DENVER VOICE September 2021 DONNIE AGUILAR. CREDIT: CAT EVANS PAGE TITLE educator ranges between $30,000 to $60,000 per year. Postgraduate income varies heavily. Some won’t even apply the degree at all. CNBC notes that graduate students owe around 50% of all student debt. Lauren Hughes has been using her bachelor’s degree in business for nearly six years. “I worked at a lot of places before working where I am now,” Hughes said. She currently works in marketing and also screens prospective employees for her company. Hughes acknowledged that for many, trade schools may be a good option. However, as she explained, “the only problem is that for a lot of jobs, you wouldn’t even be considered without a degree of some sort.” While Hughes described her college experience as, “a lot of stupid qualities that don’t apply to today’s world,” she believed that just to be considered for a job that requires a four-year degree, formal education was worth the investment. “I’m certain that they wouldn’t have hired me had I not had a college degree,” Hughes said. “It shows a level of commitment in an employer’s eyes.” Hughes’ college degree may be the reason she has her job, but she has discovered that to receive a promotion to management or a future job with higher pay, she may need a graduate degree. Weighing the risks associated with investing in a master’s degree, Hughes stated, “I don’t think the amount of debt you often have to accumulate to reach potential higher incomes is always worth it.” Whether it is worthwhile to pursue higher education, and how use it to their advantage, is up to each individual to determine. The world is evolving, and so are the ways employers gauge workers’ value — degree or no degree. ■ WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP PETE SIMON ICE CUBES IN THE HEAT / POLITICIANS IN THE HEAT Even though we may pour filtered water into ice cube trays, the cubes still form half-pure; white impurities surrounded by clear ice purity. As ice cubes melt in the heat of the day, or in beverages warm and cool; their decline begins, with clear ice on the outside disappearing first as; impure whiteness hangs on, releasing gunk as whiteness becomes exposed. Ice Cubes in the Heat, just like politicians in the Heat; even though they all start out with pure exteriors; safe to consume, that exterior has an interior, with impurities you don’t notice at first. Some impurities are manageable; others can be toxic; be careful which politicians you choose; to place in your beverage glass of life; it takes more than a fork or spoon to fish them out. Impurities are too much to bear, and elections only come every four years; in some places elections never come; in other places election drinks can be spiked. Watch who is pouring; watch your politicians, and watch your ice cubes. BENJAMIN ERIC NELSON VAPOR ESCAPES THE EARTH To show mercy To contemplate forgiveness A mystery Profound Subtle witness Driving towards freedom Thanksgiving Theological power Words twisted Appreciative notion conflicted by mistrust Desire to walk away A longing for rest Able to breathe Vapor escapes the earth Stern lesson for the departed Connoisseur of good vibes In the arms of violation Eccentric Saving lives A reason to survive The others lied 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org LAUREN HUGHES. CREDIT: CAT EVANS September 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS HOMELESSNESS AND HOMELESS PEOPLE: QUESTIONS, ANSWERS, AND OPINIONS! BY JOHN ALEXANDER, VOICE VENDOR Whatever you give is a gift from God – through you – to them. Whatever the person does with your gift is their thanks to God. God will not let you lose. Q: Why are so many homeless people drug addicts or alcoholics? A: Drugs are mood-altering chemicals. Alcohol is considered a drug. The purpose of drugs is to remove or help you escape reality. If you have a toothache or back pain, you might reach for Ibuprofen – which is a drug. If you are depressed, the doctor gives you drugs. That’s your reality. To be homeless, no place to stay or sleep, consumed by fear JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN RECENTLY, I WAS INVITED to the home of Joyce Wagner to describe what it’s like to be homeless. Following are a few of the questions that came up and the discussions that followed: Q: How do I give cash donations to homeless people without worrying they’ll spend the money on drugs or alcohol? A: By understanding what you are doing when you give your money. You are presenting that person with a gift. A true gift from the heart. Once given, it is no longer your department. of never-ending poverty… these are the realities of a homeless person, and they, too, reach for drugs to relieve their pain. The only difference is the drugs you reach for are legal. The drugs the average homeless person takes are illegal. OPINION (FROM ONE OF THE GUESTS): I have seen and been around homeless people all my life. I have never seen or heard of a homeless person worth speaking to during his life, or after his death. They have no ambition. They have nothing. Never had anything, and will never want anything in life. Every person you see, today or opinions on their past and present, but only God knows their future. I am not the oldest person alive. I am nowhere near the youngest, but I, too, have been very aware of homeless people. Joseph and Mary, and the Children of Israel all were homeless once. Every year, people around the world commemorate the holidays by sharing best wishes, having dinner together, and exchanging gifts. All of this is to celebrate the birthday of the most famous homeless person that ever lived and walked on this earth – Jesus Christ. Q: Where do all of these homeless people come from? Why do so many people choose to be homeless? A: Homeless people come from right here on Earth. You show me a homeless person, past present, fictional or spiritual, and I will show you a person that was faced with circumstances beyond their control. People don’t settle for or choose to be homeless. There are as many circumstances that cause homelessness as there are people – natural catastrophes, wars, the economy, lost jobs, companies going out of business, health – all are circumstances that are beyond a person’s control. ■ tomorrow, homeless or housed, has a before, a now, and an after. We can all give our SELF, NO MATTER WHAT… BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR NO MATTER WHAT, you must care about what is around you! Self, you cannot sit back saying, “I wish things were different.” Self, you can’t change the whole world, but you can do something where you are. Just look around you. What can you do? Did you make someone’s day? Give someone something to make them feel better? Did you treat everyone with respect, no matter who they are? No matter what, you must treat others as you wish they would treat you back! RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA No matter what, speak up when you see someone being hurt by others. Self, put yourself in their place. You would want that kindness yourself! Self, at the end of the day, can you look yourself in the mirror, knowing you did your best? No matter what, if you do your best that day to care about others, you can be very happy with self. So, Self, no matter what, be your best Self. Self, share your heart for good! ■ Become a Denver VOICE subscriber and get the paper delivered directly to your mailbox every month. Both personal and business subscriptions are available. Your donation goes directly to support our program! 12 DENVER VOICE September 2021 EVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES CHERRY CREEK ARTS FESTIVAL The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is a world-class and award-winning celebration of visual, culinary and performing arts. This year’s event includes 220 renowned and emerging artists, culinary vendors, kid’s activities, and live music. WHEN: Sep 4 and 5, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sep 6, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. COST: Free entry but you must pre-register WHERE: Creekside at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 3000 E. 1st Ave. MORE INFO: cherrycreekartsfestival.org DRY HUMOR OPEN MIC Come on out for a night of comedic experimentation and laughs at Denver’s new inclusive sober bar. WHEN: Sep 15; sign-up at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Awake, 2240 Clay Street #100 MORE INFO: awakedenver.com ACROSS THE NARRATORS If you haven’t been to The Narrators before, it is pure gold. It is essentially like This American Life unfolding right in front of your beautiful, smiling face. One of the best things to do in Denver – hands down. This month’s theme is Inside Out. Beer and wine available by donation. WHEN: Sep 15; doors at 7:15 p.m., show at 8 p.m. COST: Free, but you must register online WHERE: Buntport Theater, 717 Lipan St. MORE INFO: thenarrators.org ORTHODOX FOOD FESTIVAL & OLD GLOBEVILLE DAYS Come sample delicious homemade cuisine from Greece, Russia, Romania, Serbia, Ukraine, and Italy. Afterwards, stick around for free live music, dancing, art displays, and tours of the historic Orthodox church. There will also be a full-service bar to wash down all of those pirozhki. WHEN: Sep 18, 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Holy Transfiguration of Christ Cathedral, 349 E. 47th Ave. MORE INFO: globevilleorthodoxfoodfestival.org ART PARK GRAND OPENING RiNo Art District is thrilled to invite you to the grand opening of ArtPark, a creative hub in the Five Points neighborhood designed to spark innovation and bring people together. This event will include tours, workshops, demonstrations, art activations, live music, exhibits, performances and more! WHEN: Sep 24 - Sep. 26, various times COST: Free entry WHERE: RiNo Art Park, 1900 35th St. MORE INFO: rinoartpark.com August 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 1. “Aladdin” prince 4. 2006 Pixar film 8. Said something 13. (In) harmony 15. Sandler of “Big Daddy” 16. Reacted to fireworks 17. Jewish month 18. ___ good example 19. “___ Green Tomatoes” 20. Keystone XL and Dakota Access, for two 22. Muscle weakness 23. Had a homecooked meal 24. Emmy-winning Lewis 26. TV teaser 28. Croquet hoop 32. Beach, in Barcelona 35. Alternative to a fade 37. Reverse 38. Campus military org. 39. Dizzy 40. Opera house box 41. Aroma 42. Counter call 43. Wait with ___ breath 44. Take off 46. Fragrant wood 48. Consider, as options 50. Who’s who 53. Islamic teacher (Var.) 56. Withdrawing clerical status from 59. Be of use 60. “I’m ___ your tricks!” 61. Edible taro root 62. Change, as a clock 63. Ancient 64. Slap on, as paint 65. Flip, in a way 66. Viral sensation 67. Floral necklace DOWN 1. PDQ 2. One of the sisters in “Pride and Prejudice” 3. Not suitable 4. Slot spot 5. Gulf of ___, off the coast of Yemen 6. Numbers needed when converting currencies 7. Huge hit 8. Wildlife ___, animal park in Winston, Oregon 9. Specified 10. Buckeye State 11. Astute 12. Small whirlpool 14. Bugs 21. Turkish money 25. Missing from the Marines, say 27. Filly’s mother 29. Granny ___ COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 30. Halftime lead, e.g. 31. Pigeon-___ 32. Egg on 33. Mother ___ 34. Above 36. Network of nerves 39. Debate side 43. Island near Java 45. Property 47. Crack 49. Twilight, old-style 51. Kind of wave 52. Provide (with) 53. Neighbor of Earth 54. Eye layer 55. Glasgow gal 57. Tabloid twosome 58. Mongolian desert 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

DONOR 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. Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Creating Healthier Communities Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Kroger Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. 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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 14 DENVER VOICE August 2021 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org August 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE SWEPT A ENCAMPMENT SWEEPS MEAN EMOTIONAL TRAUMA FOR THOSE WHO HAVE TO MOVE. PAGE 8 LOCAL ORG “EEQUAL” COMES OF AGE THREE YEARS AFTER FEATURING THEM, THE VOICE CATCHES UP WITH EEQUAL’S MATINE KHALIGHI AND ALYSSA GORKIN. PAGE 5 CATS NOT COPS THEY WERE FORMED TO STAND AGAINST POLICE BRUTALITY. TODAY, THEY FOCUS ON FEEDING THE UNHOUSED. PAGE 6 DENVER’S AFFORDABILITY CRISIS THE CITY’S LACK OF LOWINCOME HOUSING IS PUSHING MANY ADULTS INTO HOUSING INSTABILITY. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 AUGUST 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 8 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR AS I WRITE THIS, locals and tourists alike are flocking to downtown Denver for the 2021 Major League All-Star Game. The game comes when local businesses need an infusion of funds and optimism. The city streets that were practically empty this time last year are bustling with activity. Many who have been jobless for the past 18 months will return to work – at least during the All-Star festivities. Unfortunately, that same pride that has gone into showcasing all that makes this such a great location for big events like the All-Star Game is also responsible for sweeping the homeless camps lining the city streets. It is easy to understand why the homeless encampments are not a feature Denver wishes to show off, but what about those individuals who sleep in the tents? Where are they supposed to go? Even if every one of those who were of sound mind and body were to hit up all of the businesses looking for workers, how are they supposed to “clean up” so they can look presentable? It’s not like the encampments have shower stalls with running water. Those camps don’t even have latrines. Where do the people living on the streets clean the few clothes they have? If that weren’t challenging enough, a high percentage of these folks don’t even have the documents employers require for proof of identity, given that many who may have had these records lost them during previous sweeps. It’s no simple matter to get duplicates of birth certificates or social security records without an ID. No doubt, the camps and those living in them are an endless headache for our city. The street enforcement teamsMayor Hancock recently created is a solution to sweep the camps and keep folks from resettling, but is that really the best we can do? ■ August CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes and covers stories on people and organizations who often are overlooked. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Cat Evans WRITERS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Edward Curlee Cat Evans Doug Hrdlicka Raelene Johnson V. beRt 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 4,000 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. 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. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson Zephyr Wilkins 2 DENVER VOICE August 2021 STAFF STAFF BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: BILLY MCAFEE BY PAULA BARD AT 72, BILLY MCAFEE IS FRAGILE. He negotiates the world in a wheelchair piled high with his belongings – a precarious balance. He spends his days on Denver’s 16th Street Mall, seeking out shade in the summer. He makes his way to the Rescue Mission at night and catches their bus out to the 48th Avenue “I WISH I HAD SOMEONE TO HELP ME. ” CREDIT: PAULA BARD Center shelter to sleep. “I had a camera, used to videotape the eagle nests out at Barr Reservoir. Did photography for years. Had my first photo published in the New York Times when I was seven! I Grew up in Capitol Hill. Worked at Jefferson County Schools and the Parks and Rec. Retired in my 50’s. My brother, David, died of COVID last year, [at age] 68. Didn’t go to the hospital. They found him right inside his door. I just cry. My other brother is in Arizona with cancer. No more family. I pray every day — ‘God, why is this my path?’ I have been in car wrecks, and I have brain injuries. I have trouble getting stuff done. I wish I had someone to help me. Just got out of the ER. Yep, just turned me out. Sometimes, I stay with my friend out on Parker and Havana. I take buses. I spend time out at the church on South Pearl.” McAfee waits, while Jessie, who works for Allied Security, stops by and then calls the Rescue Mission to get McAfee some transport help. “Yeah we know him,” Jesse explains. “He was showing me yesterday how he used to box. Used to be a boxer. Everybody knows him down here. The kids all help him. If he starts yelling they will come running to help.” It turned out, there was no transport available to help Billy make it the 10 blocks back to the Rescue Mission. ■ OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those our city has abandoned. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER SUBSCRIBE We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. August 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

INTERNATIONAL NEWS A DRUM IS HELD ALOFT DURING A WOMEN’S MEMORIAL MARCH IN VANCOUVER HONOURING MURDERED AND MISSING INDIGENOUS WOMEN AND GIRLS. CREDIT: MELANIE GRAHAM-ORR ACKNOWLEDGING A PAINFUL PAST AND PRESENT IN CANADA BY JULIA AOKI I HAVE BEEN SITTING WITH the devastating news that has come from Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation. I won’t detail that tragedy here, for reasons I convey below. But for those who have not yet encountered the news, I encourage you to search “Kamloops Residential School” and become familiar with the recent revelations from that region. Addressing a tragedy of this magnitude is For settler Canadians, these are tools used in our name, seemingly impossible in a short editorial. To summarize or condense the terrible truths of the Kamloops Residential School (KRS), without the time or resources to adequately hold space for those directly living this trauma to speak on their experiences, has the potential to do harm — particularly to those readers who continue to be impacted by colonial violence. Instead, I want to use this space to draw attention to the shared obligations of settler Canadians in the pursuit of the “truth”, if there should ever be “reconciliation”. Settler Canada needs to become familiar with its own history and present. Canada has used its self-designated authority to systematically erode traditional cultural practices and exact violence on Indigenous communities through the imposed reserve system, residential schools, the disenfranchisement of women, subversion of traditional governance systems… and on, and on, and on. tools by which land has been expropriated, seized, and dominated; peoples and cultures have been systematically dismantled; children have been taken from families; and generations of women have been dehumanized and made susceptible to violence. One of the foundational tools for this work was the Indian Act, as it conferred responsibility for the education of Indigenous children across most of Canada to the federal government. These schools were then administered by various Christian churches, with the express intention of dismantling Indigenous culture. The horrors and atrocities that occurred in those schools have been documented through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, neglect, malnutrition, unattended disease, and a devastating confirmed death count, with a much higher presumed death count. While it is often cited that the last residential school closed in 1996, it would be a mistake to assume that so too closed a chapter in Canadian history. In 2019, more than 40% of children and youth in the guardianship of the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development were Indigenous, according to the province of B.C. In 2018, the BC Coroner’s Office released a report of findings from a study of 200 deaths of people with links to the foster system between 2011 and 2016, and found a disproportionate number of those deaths were Indigenous children and youth. This is all entangled with poverty and homelessness, the issues we confront every day at Megaphone. The 2019 Homeless Count in Metro Vancouver showed once again that the homeless Indigenous population in Vancouver is radically out of line with the general population. 46% of unsheltered homeless people counted in Vancouver in 2019 identified as Indigenous, whereas Indigenous Peoples make up only 2.2% of Vancouver’s general population. While it’s painful to confront the violent histories of the place we call home, there is power in knowing our past as we try to divert our path toward a different future. While I implore our readers to actively reflect on the history and active presence of colonialism, I also encourage you to seek out First Nations, Métis, and Inuit stories and media and self-determined reporting on these issues. ■ Courtesy of Megaphone / INSP.ngo 4 DENVER VOICE August 2021 LOCAL NEWS EEQUAL COMES OF AGE BY DOUG HRDLICKA WHEN MATINE KHALIGHI AND ALYSSA GORKIN were in the eighth grade, they took a course on community outreach. The idea was for each student to volunteer for a specific cause. Khalighi chose to help foster children, and Gorkin selected an animal rescue. Helping their community resonated with them so much that the two looked for other ways to volunteer outside of the course. “The class was about building a better community, as well as the importance of community and community involvement,” said Gorkin. “It was a really rewarding experience but was very telling about how different parts of our community are underrepresented and also, how difficult it is to have a voice of leadership in the nonprofit world.” That summer, they founded Helping the Homeless Colorado, which delivered meals and hygiene products to homeless communities. Later on, the two would start the Colorado Scholarship Awards Program, which assisted homeless youth in paying for post-secondary education. It was soon after this that the Denver VOICE first featured Khalighi and Gorkin. The Colorado Scholarship Awards Program would help lay the foundation for what would later become EEqual, the next step in the evolutionary cycle of Helping the Homeless Colorado. Through their work, Khalighi and Gorkin heard how many people began experiencing homelessness when they were young adults. As young adults themselves, Khalighi and Gorkin often identified with the youth who were currently homeless. It seemed to them the cycle of homelessness could be prevented at a young age, with the right type of intervention, but it wasn’t until their senior year that they would begin MATINE KHALIGHI, FRONT WITH HIS EEQUAL COLLEAGUES. PHOTO CREDIT: EEQUAL to reconcile the ideals of eighth-graders with the business foundations of a non-profit to grow that mission. “There was this elephant in the room, that we have this really successful grassroots initiative happening right now, but how do we take this to the next level? How do we make this last, while also acknowledging the fact that when we created this we were eighth-graders, and as eighth-graders, we knew nothing about business plans, strategic plans, building a brand – that was all out of our league,” remembers Khalighi. The year following their high school graduation, Matine and Gorkin would reimagine Helping the Homeless Colorado, beginning with changing the name to EEqual and continuing with developing a mission that encompasses what they learned as high school students. They wanted to make sure EEqual was reaching its full potential. “We had two successful galas. We also had a pretty strong individual donor base through networking, and by that point, we could be doing more,” said Gorkin. The two adjusted their programming to be more youth-focused. They continued to include the scholarship program, to which they made some adjustments. They also added the Chapters Program, which helps youth become active in their communities. “By January 2020, we kind of had an idea of what we needed to be doing, and we weren’t able to accomplish that with our programming. It looked like it was programming that was designed by eighth-graders, and that’s okay because that’s what it was,” said Gorkin. The Scholarship Awards Program, which they are finetuning, will be helmed by both Khalighi and Gorkin and is intended to introduce the prospect of higher education to homeless youth. Further, the program offers mentorships to each recipient as an extra measure to ensure their success. “I want to build this family among young people, and I want them all to be able to come back and support each other,” said Khalighi. “We follow this research concept that higher education can break the cycle of poverty, so we are equipping students with that chance.” They launched the program this year and have nine students, who are either currently enrolled or will be enrolled in some form of higher education program. That could include four year college, trade school, or certification programs. The Chapters Program shares a similar goal to their scholarship program, but instead of creating a pipeline to education, the program allows young students to have leadership roles in their community by offering them foundational support when pursuing advocacy work. “Our chapters are … getting others involved with how housing insecurity affects education in their community,” said Gorkin. “Education is a very different issue in different geographic locations and so getting that conversation started so that people have the tools to learn about it in their community is one of the things that I think is really cool about chapters.” Both programs were launched nationally in April 2020 and, even amid a pandemic, were met with success. The Chapters Program is running strong in 15 states, being run locally by middle and high school students, and the scholarship program had 180 applicants for its first year.. Gorkin is now beginning her second year at Reed College and, after a gap year, Khalighi will attend Harvard in the fall for his freshman year. Although their studies are sure to be challenging, they remain excited about about the newly launched EEqual. “When you give young people an opportunity to use their voice and listen to their ideas, really incredible change can come from it. I think that is what drives a lot of the passion that I know I have, and that I see in our team at large,” said Gorkin. ■ Spring WISH LIST 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. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Reusable water bottles Sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Gloves Umbrellas that can fit into a backpack Ball caps/hats for warm weather Backpacks Ponchos & windbreakers (Men’s L, XL, XXL) August 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: PAULA BARD CATS NOT COPS “WE ARE A COMMUNITY BY PAULA BARD PROGRAM, WE’RE MUTUAL AID. WE’RE NOT HERE TO HARASS COPS, WE’RE JUST HERE TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY.” Tara De La Fuente CATS NOT COPS SETS UP TENTS and hot food stations in Benedict Fountain Park three afternoons a week. Mutual aid volunteers descend on the small park with tents, tables, and an abundance of home-cooked food, drinks, and even pizzas. They feed up to 50 unhoused people in an afternoon. They know each other now; they’ve made friends. Cats Not Cops evolved organically in Denver out of last summer’s protests over the murder of George Floyd. The volunteers and Cats Not Cops Founder Tara DeLaFuente came together and bonded initially over their mutual concern with ongoing police brutality. They formed a caring, supportive community among themselves. But, witnessing the distressing crises of the unhoused out on Denver’s streets, they began focusing on food. Alan, one of the original volunteers, says he has worked all year with Cats Not Cops, feeding the unhoused and providing clothing. “We care about each other.” As to their somewhat mysterious name, Cats Not Cops? Well, it has nothing to do with cats. DeLaFuente says her daughter drew the picture they use as their logo, and a protestor came up with the name. It stuck. DeLaFuente, who also goes by Ash Marie, said, “During COVID, I started talking to people and collecting stories. Finding out what people needed. It was good food and hot food. And because of COVID, they needed social interaction and community.” At first, she reached out last year to churches and government agencies to help. But according to DeLaFuente, “Nobody was willing to help or find a place for us to be, so I just started serving on the streets, on the sidewalk.” Their mutual aid focus was formed. Volunteers gave what they could to support their community. To start, they were feeding 80–100 people, seven days a week. They were outside of St. Francis Center, just north of downtown. At the end of their first year, they dropped down CATS NOT COPS LOGO CREATED BY ASHLEY DELAFUENTE 6 DENVER VOICE August 2021 COMMUNITY PROFILE to three days a week: Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, from 4 to 5 p.m. “We realized it was beneficial to a lot of people, said DeLaFuente. “People were happy to see us, they were happy to have food. Happy to have more resources. People who care. And we provided a safe place.” “WE BELIEVE THE COMMUNITY NEEDS LESS COPS AND MORE LOVE. WE BELIEVE BLACK LIVES MATTER! WE BELIEVE NO HUMAN SHOULD EXPERIENCE HARASSMENT, INJURY, OR DEATH FROM POLICE OFFICERS OR ANY PERSON OF AUTHORITY.” Tara De La Fuente “We can’t ignore the stories of police brutality and excessive force that have been happening for years in our community,” said DeLaFuente. “This is not something that just happened all of a sudden with George Floyd. This has been going on. And it’s going to continue to go on because these problems are so deep-rooted in our society and in our country. It’s why we have to talk about it and why we have to work together, to make a difference.” CREDIT: PAULA BARD DeLaFuente is a single parent with a solid Catholic foundation. She is on a mission. Her spiritual life is driven by a strong focus on supporting families. She and her daughter Ashley volunteer together as a team. “I am all about families having a positive way of living. All families. I’m seeing that some families are being mistreated, segregated. There are so many social issues that are going on.” She is deeply concerned with increasing racism and wealth distribution. “Our city says it’s building affordable housing, but most people can’t qualify. So, what happens? They’re left on the street or on somebody’s couch. There are so many people, it’s not just people living in tents; it’s people couch surfing, people living in shelters.” DeLaFuente grew up in the small town of Brush in northeast Colorado (2019 population of 5,420). She came to Denver in 2008 for a job with the University of Colorado. Three years ago, she started a Ph.D. program at CU with a focus on family science. In addition to Cats Not Cops, she runs her own business helping families access higher education. She also works part-time in CU’s Family and Community Engagement Department. Feeding people on Denver’s streets fits in with her long-term vision of supporting families. The next step for Cats Not Cops is media. They’ve been collecting data and filming stories, ultimately aiming to share them with the public. And they are collaborating with other mutual aid groups by hosting and sharing skills. “They can take back the knowledge to their own communities,” said DeLaFuente. “I believe it’s important to share the skills and knowledge that we have gained. We hope to always teach and learn. Especially appreciating each other, valuing each other.” Cats Not Cops serves free food Tuesday, Thursday, and CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD Sunday 4-5 pm, Benedict Fountain Park, 401 East 20th Avenue, Denver. To learn more about them, visit catsnotcops.com. ■ August 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL FEATURE SWEPT AWAY BY GILES CLASEN OVER THREE DAYS IN JULY, the City of Denver planned to forcibly move all homeless encampments from a 20-square block area leading to Coors Field. As soon as one camp was taken down, fencing went up around another a few blocks away. By the end of the week, another 20-square block area between 20th and 24th Streets and Arapahoe and Welton Streets, with multiple homeless encampments, had been disassembled and forced to move by Denver City crews and police. “During sweeps, the cops put up the fencing around us as though we are caged animals for the world to watch, only we aren’t treated as well as animals in a zoo,” said Caitlin, a college student, who was forced to relocate after the first day of the July sweeps. This was one of many sweeps the City conducted between July 9 and 13, leading up to Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game that played at Coors Field. Denver Mayor Michael Hancock told reporters at a press conference on June 30 that Denver “is enforcing the law,” as it looks beyond the pandemic. His office said repeatedly that the homeless sweeps were not related to the All-Star Game. But a study obtained by the Denver VOICE found that nearly 90% of the sweeps occurred between April 6, when it was announced that the All-Star Game was moving to Denver, and July 1. Describing her experience, Caitlin said it is hard for those who have houses to understand how damaging a sweep is to the homeless community. Individuals lose items they need to survive, like tents and propane, as well as personal records, like IDs and birth certificates, that are necessary for moving off the street. “It is chaos when someone wakes you up and you have to move everything you own in minutes,” she said. “IDs are the biggest issues for people. We can’t get jobs or housing or apartments if we don’t have IDs.” Caitlin refers to the individuals she camps with as her family. “My real family kicked me out,” Caitlin explained. “My street family welcomed me in, they accept me.” Caitlin has never had a stable home life. Social Services removed her from her mother’s care when she was young and placed her with her father. When Caitlin was six, her father abandoned the family, so her stepmother raised her. Caitlin and her stepmother never got along, prompting Caitlin to flee to the streets when she was still a teenager. “My stepmom only wanted my brother because he was a newborn,” Caitlin said. “Social Services wouldn’t separate us, so my stepmom got stuck with me. I tried to accept that fact, but it is hard to get around the idea that you weren’t wanted.” For individuals like Caitlin, the sweeps are more than an inconvenience. By breaking up homeless encampments, Denver also is forcing individuals experiencing homelessness to move away from support networks and areas of town that are located near services for individuals experiencing homelessness. “There have been more attacks on women lately, mostly down by the river,” Caitlin said. “Camping with the people you know makes it safer. We have a sense of security and safety that we all want [by camping in familiar areas close to services].” Caitlin explained how having homeless individuals near VIEW OF ENCAMPMENT WITH COORS FIELD IN THE BACKGROUND. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN venues of major events, like the All-Star Game, may create a unique danger to those who are living on the streets. 8 DENVER VOICE August 2021 LOCAL FEATURE CAITLIN (RIGHT), PUSHES HER CART ACROSS DOWNTOWN INTERSECTION. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN POLICE OFFICER APPROACHES ONE OF THE ENCAMPMENTS. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CITY CREW PREPARES TO SWEEP AN ENCAMPMENT. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN “Someone could come out of the park drunk and harass us and start a fight,” she said. “It isn’t unusual to have a person visiting downtown to feel like they have a right to harass us, call us names, or start a fight. This, of course, gets worse when people are drinking. The City sees us as animals, and so does everyone else.” Caitlin suggested that if the City wanted to effectively move homeless encampments, they should offer a place for homeless individuals to go. She also said the City could offer hotel vouchers or expand sanctioned encampments like the Safe Outdoor Spaces during the week of the All-Star Game as a stop-gap. Long-term, however, the City must address the core issue – housing for low-income individuals, while also having resources available that could be quickly accessed as need demands. Caitlin would like to be a part of Denver’s long-term solution to ending homelessness. At Metro State University, she hopes to earn a college degree in social work. She plans to spend her career working with individuals experiencing homelessness. She also acknowledges it is difficult to complete college classes and submit homework on time because of her circumstances. Caitlin expressed frustration with how instead of offering additional resources to individuals experiencing homelessness, the City put up more fencing, sent out more garbage trucks and cleanup crews, and increased the number of sweeps on homeless encampments. “The sweeps cause harm and solve nothing.” ■ CREW REMOVES PROPERTY IN AN ENCAMPMENT . CREDIT: GILES CLASEN August 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY service] industry. That was a pay cut but more aligned with my interests and a step in the right direction toward my future goals. If I didn’t have that ability, I wouldn’t have been able to take this job and would have to be working in restaurants, miserable, but making enough to just afford Denver rent.” Now that she is living at home, Straka has decided to pursue her master’s degree. “There would be no way for me to go back to school without taking out massive loans and accumulating major debt if I was on my own.” According to Straka, there is a certain stigma attached to adults returning to live with their parents. She also notes that often, people avoid talking about the reality of balancing lowpaying jobs with the escalating cost of living in Denver. “I honestly feel embarrassment and shame around still living at home. I know it makes logical financial sense and is temporary, but it makes me feel like a failure. Like MARY STRAKA. CREDIT: CAT EVANS KURT VIERS. CREDIT: CAT EVANS THE HEAVY TOLL OF DENVER’S AFFORDABILITY CRISIS BY CAT EVANS ACCORDING TO PAYSCALE.COM, the cost of living in Denver is 12% higher than the national average. Median rent sits at $1,451 per month, while the median home price is $463,245. An estimated 9,846 people are experiencing homelessness on any given day as reported by Continuums of Care. The total number of homeless students is far higher, being an estimated 22,369. With homelessness increasing every day alongside the cost of living, the question remains how does one bridge that gap? Graduating from CU Denver with a B.S. in environmental science, 28-year-old Mary Straka has struggled with finding long-term housing in the Denver Metro area. Bouncing between different restaurant jobs while trying to find a career in her field, Straka lived with her boyfriend and his brother until they broke up. Once on her own, she was forced to return home. Shortly after, she moved into an apartment, where her lease was month-to-month. Not long after that, COVID-19 hit, and Straka once again returned home as she could not afford to exist solely on unemployment. “I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have this option” explained Straka. “For me right now, the ability to move back home allowed me to take a new job out of the [food I failed at being a normal adult who can live on their own. I’m trying to reframe that into thinking of it as an investment in my future to have more financial and housing security.” Straka is not alone. According to Zillow, more than one in five adults nationally are either living with or returning to live with their parents to offset the lack of affordable housing, combined with low-paying wages and student debt. Kurt Viers, a 37-year-old barista from Kansas City, has been on and off the street since moving to Denver in 2008. “I survive as a roomer from place to place maintaining through luck, and circumstance, and the people I am fortunate enough to meet,” said Viers. “My current rent is about half my income, and it’s off the books, so there isn’t much room for missteps or unforeseen difficulty. I hesitate buying furniture or anything resembling permanence or potential burden.” While Viers has grown accustomed to his circumstances, he acknowledges the challenges he faces. “Living with housing insecurity takes its toll,” said Viers, “even when you have a place to put your head for the night – always vulnerable to any potential catastrophe. Hopefully, one day, 10 DENVER VOICE August 2021 PAGE TITLE I’ll find myself more protected, but for now, I’m just grateful for the people who have helped along the way.” It’s not as simple as just getting on a lease. The standards for approval vary, but often, applying for housing comes with application fees and no guarantees. There are also security deposits, credit scores requirements, background checks, rental history, and proof of income. Many have bad credit or no credit at all. Unhoused people are also frequently unable to build credit or have accumulated massive debt. Living on the streets often leads people into criminal activitiy because there are few tools available to them. Consequently, these individuals are usually stuck without the option of finding secure housing. Ten months ago, Sandra Hendrix followed her boyfriend to Denver and was living out of a car. “My whole world revolved around him,” explained Hendrix. When the relationship dissolved, she found herself alone on the streets. V. beRt ODE TO A FLOWER Your brilliant color expands the iris in my eyes! I watched you and nurtured you to keep you vibrant in my space. As the days passed, your colored edges browned, your head bowed down and seem tired from the earlier days when you first arrived so proud and perky. I carefully cradle your fragile leaves and brittle stem, and place you in the garden to enrich the soil for new life tomorrow. ❤ WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP EDWARD CURLEE WHAT IS A LIFE? SANDRA HENDRIX. CREDIT: CAT EVANS “I’m a woman of faith; I have faith,” she said. “It’s almost impossible, it’s like it works against you. I’m waiting on money to come in, and then I will qualify for housing.” Mary Straka, Kurt Viers, and Sandra Hendrix are just three examples of how difficult it has become to find lowincome housing. There are different assistance programs available, but those are plagued by long waitlists, and often, only offer temporary stays. Assistance programs can also keep people stuck in a cycle of poverty because they don’t want to make too much money in fear of compromising their qualifications for affordable housing. In addition to the job market devastated by the pandemic, the cost of living continues to climb, as minimum wage remains low. If this trend continues, we can expect to see more adults living with their parents, more individuals living paycheck-to-paycheck, and unfortunately, more individuals experiencing homelessness. The further one falls in society, the more challenging the climb back up becomes. As the poverty gap grows, so will the need for local politicians not only to acknowledge that this is a crisis, but to take action to address the conditions that are intensifying housing insecurity. ■ Hey, what is a life? Hardships, joy, beliefs to hold, Wants that unfold now. 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org August 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS SELF, WHAT WILL YOU DO? BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR SELF, WHAT WILL YOU DO when you see someone mistreating another person? Will you just look away and do nothing? Self, will you hurt someone with your words, or will your words be a blessing to someone? Self, will you hold someone up, or let go and not care? Self, do you see your fellow human going hungry and not care, or will you help someone eat that day? Self, can you set your mind to doing what you can for at least one person today, or do you hope someone else will step up so Self does not need to get involved? Does Self only care about Self, or can Self share Self with someone to help both them and Self? Self can overcome Self’s past pain by helping others with RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA the things Self wished someone else would have done when Self was lost and in pain. Self has a lot of power over Self – more power than anyone else can have over Self. Self can change things around Self, but only if Self wants to make a positive difference in someone else’s life. Once Self comes out of Self and owns pain of the past, then Self can know what made you stronger for it. That’s when Self will be able to reach out and make a true change in someone else’s life! Self, that will be your reason for all you went through. Be a blessing to someone else and watch the blessing that will come back to your Self. Self, love others as you love your Self. ■ FREE ADDICTION SUPPORT FOR DENVER RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FINANCIAL HARDSHIP (855) 539-9375 WeFaceItTogether.org Subscribe online: NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! DENVERVOICE.ORG/SUBSCRIPTIONS 12 DENVER VOICE August 2021 Become a Denver VOICE subscriber and get the paper delivered directly to your mailbox every month. Both personal and business subscriptions are available. Your donation goes directly to support our program! EVENTS MONDAY MOVIE MADNESS: FOOTLOOSE Fight for your right to dance at this free screening of Footloose (1984). Bring your own cooler of snacks but leave the glass containers at home. WHEN: August 9, gates at 6 p.m., movie at 7 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Infinity Park, 4599 E Tennessee Ave. MORE INFO: infinityparkatglendale.com/events WHEATRIDGE CARNATION FESTIVAL This 52nd annual community festival will feature live music, classic cars, a parade, carnival rides, vendors, food, beer and wine, kids’ activities, fireworks, and more. WHEN: Aug 13 – Aug 15 COST: Free entry WHERE: Anderson Park, 4355 Field St. MORE INFO: thecarnationfestival.com FAMILY FUN RUN Grab your crew for a short fun run, followed by buy-one-get-one cones at Little Man. WHEN: Aug 18, 6:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Little Man Ice Cream Factory, 4411 W Colfax Ave. MORE INFO: facebook.com/littlemanfactory VEGGIE VIERNES This monthly event features vegan food from Latinx/BIPOC/ woman-owned businesses, local art, Aztec dancing, live music, lowriders, youth activities, and more. WHEN: Aug 20, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Cultura Craft Chocolate, 3742 Morrison Rd. MORE INFO: facebook.com/culturacraftchocolate HIGHLANDS STREET FAIR Stroll along W. 32nd Avenue, enjoying live music, signature bevvies, tasty eats, local makers, and more. WHEN: Aug 28, 12 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Highlands Square, W. 32nd Ave. between Irving St. and Perry St. MORE INFO: highlandsstreetfair.com COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 ACROSS DOWN 1. Dirt 5. Fishhook’s end 9. Play thing 13. Pop singer Amos 14. Mountain nymph 16. Nevada gambling city 17. Twofold 18. Renter’s agreement 19. “What’s gotten ___ you?” 20. Controversial power source 23. Pasture (Var.) 24. ___ syrup 25. Cause of ruin 29. First US space station 33. “Cool!” 34. Monastery 37. In poor health 38. In a form that a computer can process 42. Biblical verb ending 43. Pass-the-baton race 44. Dark loaves 45. Expression of gratitude 47. Medicine men 50. Himalayan legends 53. Sean ___ Lennon 54. Mind-numbing 60. Approximately 61. Be a bad winner 62. Pink, as a steak 64. Hammer part 65. Magical wish granter 66. Kuwaiti leader 67. Lays down the lawn 68. Be inclined 69. ___ good example 1. “___ be an honor!” 2. Verb preceder 3. Lady of the Haus 4. Waterproof fabric 5. Anne ___, Henry VIII’s second wife 6. Length x width, for a rectangle 7. Provide new weapons 8. Iraqi port 9. Spendy 10. Monthly budget item 11. “I’m ___ your tricks!” 12. Impoverished 15. Kind of fishing or diving 21. Floral necklace 22. Resin in adhesives and paints 25. Not fulfilled 26. Poet’s “below” 27. Russian country house 28. Scottish Celt 30. Country home to a 2011 revolution 31. ___ wrench 32. Sanctify 35. Lingerie item 36. Ottoman governors 39. Annoyed 40. Savings 41. Wardrobes 46. Hosiery 48. Made an owl sound 49. “___ questions?” 51. Land in the ocean 52. Pebble 54. Absorbs, with “up” 55. Black-and-white cookie 56. Preowned 57. Drops from the sky 58. Appoint 59. Sand 63. Historic period August 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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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 14 DENVER VOICE August 2021 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org August 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

WANT 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

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE Back on TRACK THE PANDEMIC FORCED TONY MASON TO WORK IN A JOB HE HATED. TODAY THE MUSIC PROMOTER IS BACK TO DOING WHAT HE LOVES. PAGE 6 VOICE LAUNCHES VENDOR TOURS BY SHARING THEIR STORIES, VENDORS SHARE DENVER’S HISTORY. PAGE 4 TRANS AMERICA COLORADO HAS LEGISLATION PURPORTING TO PROTECT TRANSGENDER INDIVIDUALS, BUT DO THOSE LAWS MAKE A DIFFERENCE? PAGE 8 HAVEN FOR THE HUNGRY FOR 14 YEARS, HAVEN OF HOPE’S MISS KAY HAS PROVIDED KINDNESS AND NOURISHMENT TO THOSE IN NEED. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 5, 11 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGES 12-13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JULY 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 7 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR ON THE BLOCK IN EAST DENVER WHERE I GREW UP, kids in my neighborhood would gather to play dodgeball and other games in the middle of the street in front of my house. The first one to spot a car alerted the rest of us, and we would step out of the street and pause the game until the vehicle parked or drove away. Today, with the Denver traffic and increasing population, it’s difficult enough for groups of children to cross the street; let alone play in them. I miss a lot about living in a smaller Denver, but I grudgingly acknowledge there are some positives to the city’s growth. I appreciate that we have bigger and better sports arenas, live performance venues, and restaurants, but I miss the cow town charm for which the Denver where I grew up was known. For sentimentalists like me or anyone interested in learning what our city was like before ranking among the 10 most expensive cities in the U.S., the Denver VOICE will launch a vendor tour program this month. The idea is to showcase sections of the city with which the vendor guiding the tour has a personal history. You can read more about the program on page 4. Keeping with our annual July theme of tourism, this issue includes a list of summer events to enjoy in person, as well as suggestions for some of the area’s best live music. Also in this issue is a story about Miss Kay and the kitchen crew at Haven for Hope. Why would we feature Miss Kay in our tourism issue? Simple. Not all who move to or visit Denver arrive with a job, a place to live, or much, if any, money. For newcomers experiencing poverty and looking for shelter or other resources, Haven of Hope is there to welcome and help them, and Miss Kay has made an art form of cooking healthy and delicious meals for those most in need. As we work towards a majority of vaccinated individuals, we have more opportunities to attend events and social gatherings in person. Once you’ve had a glimpse of activities and performances starting up in or returning to the Mile High City, I hope it will inspire you to get out and embrace what this growing city has to offer. ■ July CONTRIBUTORS DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. 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. CAT EVANS is a Colorado native born and raised in the Baker neighborhood of Denver. She is a musician, poet, photographer, cinematographer, and free thought enthusiast. She is focused on translatable activism through visuals and sound. DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes and covers stories on people and organizations who often are overlooked. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Haven Enterman Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Cat Evans 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. 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: Starting June 1, we will be open Mondays through Fridays 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. WRITERS Lando Allen Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis Cat Evans Lisa Gibson Doug Hrdlicka OshaBear Raelene Johnson Whitney Roberts BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson Zephyr Wilkins @deeOCE 2 DENVER VOICE July 2021 STAFF STAFF BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: MARY ANN BY PAULA BARD “WE EACH HAVE OUR OWN STORY. For me, healing is being able to tell that story. I didn’t come to Denver wanting to be homeless. I came to Denver from Arizona, about ten years ago. I was a nurse, 56. I had met this guy from Denver. The day that I arrived, we were in a motel, turns out, he had a crack pipe. Nope, no drugs and alcohol for me. I told him to get the hell out. So here I was, brand new to Denver, “I WILL SURVIVE AND KEEP ON GOING ” CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 didn’t know anybody, didn’t have a job, didn’t have anything. I said, ‘I will survive and keep on going.’ My mail was forwarded to the motel. But come to find out you can’t use motel addresses for job applications! I’m an LPN, and the person who updated LPN licenses had retired; I couldn’t update my license. With that hotel address, I couldn’t get a job. I went to stay at Samaritan House, the shelter. With their address I got a job at the Arapahoe County Jail. I liked it. But I worked odd and late hours. And it was hard getting back into the shelter at night. They close at 9:00. If you’re late, you can’t get back in. So, when I worked a 3-11 shift, I slept in my car in the parking lot. But, they told me they would call the police if I continued it. And then, someone destroyed my car. Intentionally. The security guard wouldn’t let me call the police. I was using light rail and buses to get to Arapahoe County from downtown. Plus, I was keeping up with chores and classes at the shelter. It was exhausting and hard! All I could do was cry. Then, when I was doing my chores in the kitchen, this guy, another resident, grabbed my breast. I ran down to the security guard. He said he couldn’t report it to the police. This was sexual assault, but the guy was from the prison in Sterling, an ex con. ‘You know, if you call the cops, you’ll get thrown out of here,’ said the guard. I left.” ■ OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER SUBSCRIBE We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. July 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS VOICE VENDOR TOURS OFFER UNIQUE INSIGHT INTO DENVER’S HISTORY BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN AND WHITNEY ROBERTS ON JULY 12, the Denver VOICE will launch its VOICE vendor tours, where participants will learn pieces of Denver’s history as told by our vendors who have personal relationships with these locations. The cost of each tour will be $18, with 50% of that going directly to the individual leading the tour. We plan to have at least three different tours lined up by the end of the summer. The first will follow longtime vendor John Alexander as he guides participants through the Five Points neighborhood, where he owned a gift boutique for several years. Before RiNo was a trendy, overpriced neighborhood, it was Five Points. With deep cultural roots in the Jazz Age and the Civil Rights era, Five Points was a mostly Black community featuring live jazz at any number of clubs in the area. It didn’t matter if it was a Monday, the middle of the week, or a weekend – music played late into the night. Alexander aims to present the best parts of what he lived and experienced in this historic neighborhood. On his tour, he will transport participants back 40 years to a time when locals and visitors to the area delighted in the hottest nightclubs, the best food, and a place where one could buy fresh fish and illegal food stamps in the same spot. “Picture the best party you’ve ever been to or your favorite holiday gathering, where everyone is laughing, enjoying each other and having a good time,” Alexander says. “That’s how it was there every night of the week.” For more information about Denver VOICE Vendor Tours, CREDIT: CHRIS BAIR, UNSPLASH visit www.denvervoice.org/vendortour. ■ Subscribe online: NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! DENVERVOICE.ORG/SUBSCRIPTIONS 4 DENVER VOICE July 2021 Become a Denver VOICE subscriber and get the paper delivered directly to your mailbox every month. Both personal and business subscriptions are available. Your donation goes directly to support our program! IN YOUR OWN WORDS I wanted to get back to Denver in time to watch my football team play. So, I was trying to catch the Greyhound bus back home, but they wouldn’t let me on the bus with my bike. I decided to ride my bike on the highway, so that I could watch the football game the next day. I’d been riding my bike on the highway for about half an hour when the cops kicked me off the highway and made me go through small towns. The ride was breathtaking. I saw buffalos and prairie dogs for the first time. I also saw an emu farm along the way. Meanwhile, I stopped in every little town I went through, and then, I finally made it to Castle Rock. I didn’t want to sleep out where the prairie dogs were, so I got a motel room and started to watch the football game. After the game ended, I got back on the highway, and rode my bike to Denver.■ LANDO ALLEN. CREDIT: SARAH HARVEY A different kind of BICYCLE TOUR BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR ONE YEAR, I was interested in people who were riding bikes to other cities. I thought that was very cool. I heard about people who would ride their bikes to Atlanta from Colorado. I asked all kinds of questions about what they did and how they survived. So, I was catching a bus from Denver to Colorado Springs for a job I was doing down there. A lady I worked with in Colorado Springs sold me her bike, and I picked it up after I was finished working for the day. Good Morning, Self. LET’S TALK! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR GOOD MORNING, SELF. Did you thank your Higher Power for waking you up? Soon as you wash your face, look in the mirror and say, “Today will be a good day. I love you. Think positive always! It will be a great day. I believe in you. You can do anything!” Keep looking deeply at Self so you can know it’s true! Do it all day. Say it over again all day. And if you do, your mind will believe it, and good things will come your way! Self, when you get up and say, “I know someone will mess with me, I’m no good at anything, no one likes me or wants to be around me, no one can love me because that is what everyone said to me all the time, so you know it must be true,” RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA all you are doing is sending the negative messages to the universe, so the universe sends that back to you! So, Self, talk nice to Self. Believe you deserve the best. Tell Self, “I will take nothing less than the BEST!” Self, do you know that self-talk is positive? Like yourself, hypnotize yourself to only take in good. Do not let anyone say you’re no good, you’re a dummy, you’re not worth love. If they do, you have to tell them that’s not true. Speak up for Self. Self, you get to choose the words you keep in or let go of. If it sounds good, feels, good and is not painful, then go for that. You will find how great it is to care about Self and not let unhealthy words keep you down. Think hard. Only you can change your life, Self. I love you, Self. ■ Spring WISH LIST 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. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Reusable water bottles Sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Flat screen TV Gloves Umbrellas that can fit into a backpack Ball caps/hats for warm weather Backpacks Panchos & windbreakers (Men’s L, XL, XXL) July 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN BACK ON TRACK: AFTER A PANDEMIC-CAUSED HIATUS, TONY MASON RETURNS TO HIS PASSION BY GILES CLASEN TONY MASON WAS NOT DESTINED to become a music promoter. Tony Mason’s destiny was to paint houses, like his parents and their parents before them. The plan was simple – he would one day take over Thomas A. Mason Painting, the successful business that has been around since 1912. But Mason was drawn to the music business rather than the family business. That’s not to say that he didn’t try to be a painter. It was simply that Mason found more passion for his “terrible” punk bands than a paintbrush, and just before he turned 21, he told his parents he was going to move from Grand County to Denver to go to college. Once again, Mason was faced with the dilemma of following the family tradition or forging his own path. If he studied business or construction management his parents would pay for college. Instead, Mason chose to start at Red Rocks Community College studying music performance and had to foot the bill himself. “I barely made it through high school,” Mason said. “I almost failed out of high school. I was suspended several times. I was expelled once. High school was just not a good experience for me.” Once Mason found his passion, though, school became easy. He was getting all A’s and B’s at Red Rocks Community College, and an academic advisor pushed him to attend the music business program at CU Denver. During his first semester at CU, Mason’s eyes were opened, and he realized he wasn’t going to be a musician. “I transferred to CU Denver, and all of a sudden, I was surrounded by, like, really talented musicians and people who were so amazing,” Mason said. “I knew I couldn’t compete. I kind of lost my will to play and practice every day at that point.” So rather than compete, Mason determined he would promote his friends and their abilities. “I kind of decided rather than trying to be a rock star, I wanted to work for all of my friends who were amazing musicians,” Mason said. “I wanted to help them with their careers.” In 2008, Mason started booking his first shows, singersongwriter showcases at Leela’s European Cafe, the Mercury Cafe, and any other spot that he could convince to let his friends play. He called his little venture Tonedynamix – a play on his name and his dynamic range of music genre interest. Those early shows led to him booking bigger shows at bigger venues until he found a place as the in-house booking agent for Lost Lake Lounge, Larimer Lounge, and Globe Hall. “I loved working at Lost Lake and the Globe,” Mason said. “It was a lot of work for little money, but I was so passionate about working for small independent venues. It was worth it.” Then in early 2020, Mason was offered a big career move. A much larger venue in Texas offered him a higher-paying job and the opportunity to book big, national shows. 6 DENVER VOICE July 2021 LOCAL STORY With 15 years in the business of booking music acts in Denver, Tony Mason has assembled the following list for the VOICE of the best places to hear different types of live music in 2021: TOP 3 BEST VENUES FOR LOCAL MUSIC: 1. Number 38 2. The Oriental Theater 3. Larimer Lounge CREDIT: GILES CLASEN But just as 2020 giveth, 2020 taketh away. Soon after he received the job offer, the pandemic hit, and days before Mason was set to move, he received a call. With the pandemic bringing live music to a halt there were no promises that the venue would survive. To tighten their belt, they were laying off staff – including Mason. To make ends meet, he went on unemployment and even did some shifts working for his parents’ painting business. “I was literally almost crying walking out the door in the mornings,” Mason said. “I was just on this huge track, new job, huge venue, huge raise, full benefits. I finally got my big break in the music industry and now, all of a sudden, I’m putting on a hard hat and steel-toe boots and doing something that I, like, hate. I was grateful for the work and hated that I wasn’t working in music.” The life changes brought clarity. Mason had a stronger feeling than ever before that he wanted to be a music promoter, but he no longer wanted to work for other people. He longed for the early days when he was hustling to book shows as an independent promoter. He wanted the freedom to schedule national acts at larger venues while helping budding performers book smaller shows. As quarantine restrictions began to ease up, Mason dusted off his old Tonedynamix brand and got to work reaching out to old colleagues, musicians, and venues and bringing his business back to life. He has already booked several shows throughout Denver and is negotiating with some national acts. He even took on the job of managing the Colorado shows for Denver’s Flobots. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN A little more than a year ago, Mason knew where his life was heading, but as it did for so many, the pandemic completely altered this path. However, his struggle over the past year and a half has reinforced Mason’s passion, pushing him to rebuild his business and land on what might an even better path. ■ TOP 3 BEST VENUES FOR NATIONAL MUSIC: 1. Red Rocks 2. Levitt Pavilion 3. The Oriental Theater TOP 3 BEST VENUES THAT ARE FAMILY-FRIENDLY: 1. Levitt Pavilion 2. Jazz in the Park (City Park) 3. Mutiny Information Cafe July 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL FEATURE TRANS AMERICA BY CAT EVANS THE STATE OF COLORADO has generated a slew of protective and inclusive laws for the transgender community in recent years, including the right to change your legal gender without sex reassignment surgery, the third gender option, and anti-bullying laws in schools/colleges. With all this considered — what is the actual impact on the day-today life of the individual in comparison to the legislative backing on paper? How does more acknowledgment by our local government impact the oppressions faced when it comes to personal engagement and visibility in the community? These are questions that can only be answered by people who are members of marginalized communities and exist outside of “normal” identities. There are various forms of legislative protection for the LGBTQ+ community, but this does not necessarily translate into tangible improvements for the people who exist in these realities day to day. While one could argue that the general public has become more accepting and tolerant of the LGBTQ community, it is important to note that not all members of this community have the same experience or are afforded the same treatment. The transgender community, specifically, is one that has faced extreme ridicule, hate, violence, accusation, and systemic oppression from the general population and governing bodies that often vilify what they simply do not understand. What “progress” means depends on who you speak to and is specific to the life experience of each individual. When it comes to social issues in the vague sense in which it impacts others, many hope for progress, but for some of us, progress is critical to survival and is a key component of everyday life. GOOD INTENTIONS ARE NOT ENOUGH Emma Parks, who began her transition in Mississippi, left for various reasons, one being that there was no statewide protection. She was drawn to Colorado for its protective acts. “It’s written into the Colorado constitution, and it’s been updated and amended recently, that gender and gender identity is a part of the protected classes – not just a law, but in the constitution,” Parks said. Parks describes her perception of legislation as “not just some half-assed here or there where politicians could seem inclusive and weren’t actually – but something that existed where you could actually protect yourself.” Parks explains that despite elected officials’ good intentions, a lack of trans representation in the legislature ultimately leads to ineffective laws and legislation. There is currently one Colorado lawmaker who identifies as trans, Brianna Titone, and she is one of very few transgender state legislators nationwide. “If you want to be able to have the power, you need to fight for your community,” Parks said. “We need the support of other people. There’s not enough solidarity between minority communities. We are minorities. On our own we cannot stand up against our oppressors. If we came together truthfully, imagine what could happen.” Parks explains that the laws legislators selectively support are the ones that receive media representation, and this creates division. This was a key point that highlighted the importance of authentic representation. With greater representation for the trans community on TV screens, in board rooms, in classrooms, in courtrooms, and so forth — not just as a “representative” or mouthpiece for a community, but as an actual member of the community — acceptance, understanding, and inclusion would begin to evolve quickly. What it means to identify as transgender and what it means to be protected within this identity may have different implications depending on who is interpreting them, especially in tandem with each other. Certain obstacles JULIAN CAMERA. CREDIT: CAT EVANS 8 DENVER VOICE July 2021 LOCAL FEATURE taken matters into his own hands. Camera, who works for the American Civil Liberties Union, a national nonprofit organization, says it’s no secret that there is a major lack of advocacy for civil rights in this nation as a whole. “We focus on civil rights and civil liberties issues in Colorado, through law, litigation, and advocacy,” Camera said. “So we take on civil rights cases in the courts.” Camera believes that the path to change is through effort and consistency: “We try to pass and defend legislation for civil rights and civil liberties. We also do community advocacy for civil rights issues,” he said. Camera’s position is in community advocacy, focusing on LGBTQ+ issues in general while also working on other issues like immigration. Camera was recommended for the position through an internship, and although his degree was in communications and anthropology, he chose this path because it aligned with his cause. “I was able to transfer my passion for those issues into civil rights,” Camera said. “And that was right at the beginning of my transition. It was the perfect time, and Trump had just been elected. I was worried about my community, not only mine, but immigrants, minorities.” Camera was initially drawn to civil rights matters in high EMMA PARKS. CREDIT: CAT EVANS trans folks face may be more obvious to those outside their community, while other challenges are pocketed or swept away for the sake of “fitting in,” or trying to get by. There is much avoidance tied to the desire to experience normalcy, thus day to day life can be tricky and sometimes daunting for those who are not out or are out in some spaces and not others. For many transgender people, the experience of coming out is one of extreme vulnerability and a time when perception of protection – or lack thereof – is highly relevant. IN SEARCH OF PROTECTION Consider 11-year-old Avani’s story. Born male, now identifying as female, she is no stranger to the turbulence of a society that will forever look at her differently. At such a young age she has already experienced rejection based on her identity, beginning with her father’s response. “Her dad was still seeing her every weekend,” Avani’s mother said. “We weren’t allowed to grow her hair.” Avani, who lives with her mother, first asked for girl clothes on her ninth birthday. It was all that she wanted. Her mother cried, mostly out of fear for her child, but agreed nonetheless because she knew her child was living a secret life at home and at school. Her father reluctantly agreed, only to demand when picking her up from school a short time later, that Avani remove her female clothing the second she got in his car. “I was just so mad; I didn’t talk to him the whole way to the house,” Avani said. “Like, literally right when I got in the car, he gave me [boy’s] clothes. I don’t even think he said hi to me.” Avani’s mom recalls her father’s blunt rejection of Avani’s femininity and how he would try to make her act like a boy. “She couldn’t scream a certain way; it was too girly,” Avani’s mother said. “She was under a magnifying glass. He would make her do crazy things to make her more manly. That was one of the biggest fights we ever had. He would make her do things like go on roofs, put her in dangerous situations — like, why?” Avani’s coming-out experience is common. There are numerous factors that contribute to resistance and dismissal from family members, including religious background, politics, gender roles, gender expectation, fear, societal implications, and an overall lack of understanding. Bridging these gaps can seem overwhelming, especially when such a small portion of the population is visible. According to GLAAD, a nonprofit advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, in 2017 roughly 3% of the nation identified as transgender. The fact that transgender people comprise a comparatively small portion of the population sheds light on the ways in which legislation can be ineffective and can fail to translate into improvements in people’s daily realities. In Avani’s case, although she lives in Colorado. where there is legislation in place to protect her, these laws have no impact on her daily existence. She describes her coming-out experience as traumatic and filled with fear. She did not feel protected within her immediate surroundings. With long, dark brown hair and a full rosy face, Avani is female-passing; you would never know that just a few years prior she was seen as a boy to the outside world. As she began to fully embrace her long-awaited femininity in physical form, she changed schools to avoid the potential social repercussions from her peers who knew her as “he.” That didn’t stop news from traveling, and she was bullied by a “friend of a friend” who blurted out in the middle of class, “That guy only likes her because he doesn’t know she’s transgender.” “I started to cry; I was bawling my eyes out,” Avani said. “I didn’t know what to do. I’ve never been in that situation. No one has ever said that.” Before she left school that day, one of her teachers made the situation even more hurtful by pulling her out of class and asking, “Was it really necessary to call your mom?” Avani is grateful that her mother has been understanding and supportive of her experience. Currently, her mother is in the middle of deciphering the legality and protections for her daughter in the school system. There is only so much that can be done on a legal level, as microaggressions are both prominent and subtle. THE PATH TO CHANGE Julian Camera, a trans male born and raised in Denver, has AVANI. CREDIT: CAT EVANS school while learning about racism and feeling utter disgust in both what had occurred and what has become. Having experienced the feeling of being a minority himself, initially identifying as a lesbian and ultimately deciding to follow his truth into full transition to male, there was really no other route for him. Already having a passion for civil rights in general, it seemed only right to continue his pursuit, and as a highly visible transgender male, there is much impact to be had through varying advocacy, and much to be learned, analyzed, and applied en route to a safer world for those who are fighting to exist in it. Reflecting on Colorado’s role in advancing protections for the transgender community, Emma Parks stresses the goodness of what has come so far but is quick to mention that there is a lot of work to be done. “Laws are impactful,” explains Parks, ”but there is much room to fill in regard to true acceptance of what is thought to be different.” ■ July 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

COMMUNITY PROFILE MISS KAY OFFERS A HAVEN FOR HUNGER BY DOUG HRDLICKA WHEN YOU WALK INTO THE DINING ROOM at Haven of Hope any preconceptions of what it may be like are washed away, and you are left with a welcoming feeling. Your meal is brought to you, and each bite is imbued with the nostalgia of home cooking. The noise of kitchenware clinking and coworkers laughing spills from the kitchen into the dining room, and all at once, the troubles of the world fade into the background while everyone eats. Miss Kay, the head chef, arrives at Haven of Hope at 5:45 a.m., five days a week, to begin lunch prep. She oversees food service and decides what meals are going out. The oven is preheated to 350 degrees, and lunch begins cooking while breakfast is being served. Today, seasoned chicken is on the menu. VOLUNTEERS. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA The chicken, so tender the meat falls off the bone, is paired with baked green beans and carrots with butter. Miss Kay’s cooking is exceedingly delicious, and anyone taking part will forget where they are and be taken to a place of comfort and safety. “I make everything here. Pretty much everything,” said Miss Kay. “I don’t do much frying here. Everything is boiled or baked. Once in a while, we’ll order fried chicken from King Soopers for the occasional holiday.” The food, which is donated, arrives every Thursday, and the dishes Miss Kay makes depend on what all was delivered. Sometimes, she serves spaghetti, and other times, she serves pinto beans with turkey - two classic dishes that are favorites among the diners. Occasionally, they will get in steaks, which is always a treat. Like most cuisine, the food that Miss Kay cooks inspires a sense of community at Haven of Hope. For many, that feeling of belonging and security is essential. “People feel safe here, and that’s what they want, to feel safe and be treated like human beings,” said Miss Kay. Serving meals has been a tradition at Haven of Hope since its inception in 2003. During the early years, food was served from an 800-square-foot house and fed between 80 and 90 people. Over the years, the organization has grown. MISS KAY. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA VOLUNTEERS. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA 10 DENVER VOICE July 2021 PAGE TITLE WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP OSHA BEAR THE LURE OF SILENCE Wisps of Breath Descend on my Being Aware of Loneliness Nothing Certain A VOLUNTEER. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA Today, Haven of Hope operates out of a building that is nearly 6000 square feet and feeds 400 to 500 people daily, with Miss Kay at the helm. The growth has included new services, too. Laundry and showers have always been a part of what Haven of Hope offers, along with food, but now the sanctuary offers vocational classes and assistance with any legal troubles one might be facing. Her work for Haven of Hope is not Miss Kay’s first role in a kitchen, though. Originally from Indianapolis, she cooked in restaurants owned by her relatives. In 1987, she relocated to Denver, following siblings who already lived here. Fourteen years ago, a friend who worked at Haven of Hope and needed assistance with cooking called her. Miss Kay was hired that day and has been there ever since. “Haven of Hope is exactly what it says. It gives people hope. It’s a safe haven; it saves lives,” said Miss Kay. While the kitchen staff changes regularly, some volunteers have been coming for more than five years. Others, like Kevin Davis, are members of the Haven kitchen staff and work under Miss Kay. Davis has been working in the kitchen for three years and is Miss Kay’s right-hand man. He arrives at the same time she does and helps prep the lunch and serve breakfast. “I came down here to eat,” explained Davis. I had a few hours of community service to do at the time and asked Miss Kay if they needed any help. I was in the right place at the right time. [Miss Kay] told me to come back the following Monday at 6:30 a.m. I came; haven’t left yet.” Miss Kay’s dining hall is not simply a place to eat, but a gateway to showers, laundry, and other services that can improve the lives of those who’ve fallen on hard times. “We don’t deny anybody,” said Miss Kay. “We don’t turn anybody down for food. We welcome everyone, with no questions asked.” ■ July 2021 DENVER VOICE 11 Standing in Urban Relishes Forgetting Crackling fires Prayers go up Offered silence Grounding on Barefoot Earth Luxury Soft pillows of Musty Seasons Surrounded by canopies Forest delight Without a care For time or compasses Silence is a Lure Awaiting my patience LISA GIBSON SWEET ROCK-A-BYE Sailing on ship at night. Gentle rocking to soothe a troubled soul. Ebb and flow of tide that time can’t control. Stars winking and blinking, Growing bright in a darkening sky. Knowing I’m safe from all in the sweet rock-a-bye. A warm breeze engulfs me, Caressing tendrils of my hair. I’ve mapped my destination with great care. We’re all sailors in this world, Plotting our course as we go along. Discovering each time we dock whether it’s right or wrong. Gathering things from each port, That guide our journey through time. Setting our sails and casting a line. 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org

EVENTS Tourism Edition This just in – summer is back! After a long year of Zoom happy hours, Netflix binges, and virtual events, your summer of in-person fun starts now! i bk! Aft l f Z h h COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA LIVE MUSIC FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The Levitt Pavilion is quickly becoming the darling of Denver’s live music scene. Round up your friends and family, brings your blanket and chairs, and kick back for a night of eclectic music performances. WHEN: Various dates through early October. COST: Free but you must register online. WHERE & MORE INFO: Levitt Pavilion, 1380 W Florida Ave. • levittdenver.org CITY PARK JAZZ This Sunday evening tradition is back! Enjoy live music, sunsets, food trucks, cute dogs, and community at this beloved city event. WHEN: Sundays through August 8, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free but donations accepted. WHERE & MORE INFO: City Park Pavilion, 2001 Steele St. • cityparkjazz.org B-SIDE MUSIC FRIDAYS Enjoy an intimate musical performance while sipping craft beverages and relaxing on one of the sweetest rooftops in town. WHEN: Fridays in July and August; doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: Tickets start at $30. WHERE & MORE INFO: MCA Denver, 1485 Delgany St. • mcadenver.org RIVERFRONT PARK SUMMER SESSIONS Check-out Denver’s newest music series that also features food, drink, and art. WHEN: July 8, August 19, September 16, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE & MORE INFO: 19th Street Bridge, S. Platte River Dr. • riverfrontparkevents.com THE UNDERGROUND MUSIC SHOWCASE (UMS) Discover your new favorite band at this 3-day “mess” of a festival. WHEN: August 27 – August 29 COST: Tickets start at $50. WHERE & MORE INFO: Various venues along Broadway • undergroundmusicshowcase.com The Denver Public Library is your friend, offering a variety of free/ low-cost workshops on writing, meditation, current events, history, film, English and Spanish language classes, U.S. citizenship, and more! WHEN: Various dates and times COST: Most events are free. WHERE & MORE INFO: Denver Public Library branches • denverlibrary.org/events For an ongoing list of free/low-cost comedy showcases and open mics, visit 5280comedy.com. COMEDY & OPEN MICS COMEDY 12 DENVER VOICE July 2021 Whether you are interested in yoga, outdoor movies, live music, and/or comedy, Ironton is hosting a number of ongoing events this summer in their beautiful backyard oasis. WHEN: Various dates and times COST: Costs vary WHERE & MORE INFO: Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse, 3636 Chestnut Pl. • irontondistillery.com VARIOUS WORKSHOPS This weekly market will feature 40+ local vendors, pop-up bars, food trucks, live music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. WHEN: Saturdays through October 2, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free entry. WHERE & MORE INFO: 1611 Raleigh St. • facebook.com/DenverBazaar VARIOUS EVENTS MISCELLANEOUS FRIDAY NIGHT BAZAAR: RINO ART DISTRICT Drink, eat, and shop local at this festive community event. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. WHEN: Fridays through August 27, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. COST: Free entry. WHERE & MORE INFO: 2424 Larimer St. • facebook.com/DenverBazaar SATURDAY NIGHT BAZAAR: SLOAN’S LAKE FILM ART SUMMER MOVIE SERIES Free Wednesday night movie series. Selections include Onward, Black Panther, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and Wonder Woman. WHEN: July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28, at dusk COST: Free WHERE & MORE INFO: E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, 11701 Community Center Dr. • northglennarts.org FILM ON THE ROCKS After a successful run of drive-in films in the Red Rocks parking lot, the Denver Film Society is bringing it back inside the amphitheater with three modern classics: Casino Royale, Jurassic Park, and The Princess Bride. WHEN: July 12, July 19, August 2, doors at 6:30 p.m. COST: Tickets start at $16 WHERE & MORE INFO: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy. • denverfilm.org MONDAY MOVIE MADNESS Free Monday night movies series. Selections include Spiderman into the Spiderverse, Raya and the Last Dragon, Footloose, The Croods – A New Age, and Disney Pixar’s Soul. WHEN: July 12, July 26, August 9, August 30, September 13, doors at 6 p.m. COST: Free WHERE & MORE INFO: Infinity Park, 4599 E Tennessee Ave. • infinityparkatglendale.com/events RIVERFRONT PARK SUMMER SESSIONS Check-out Denver’s newest music series that also features food, drink, and art. WHEN: July 8, August 19, September 16, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free WHERE & MORE INFO: 19th Street Bridge, S. Platte River Dr. • riverfrontparkevents.com THE UNDERGROUND MUSIC SHOWCASE (UMS) Discover your new favorite band at this 3-day “mess” of a festival. WHEN: August 27 – August 29 COST: Tickets start at $50. WHERE & MORE INFO: Various venues along Broadway • undergroundmusicshowcase.com MIXED TASTE Mixed Taste is where even the most mismatched subjects find common ground in an interactive lecture series that can go pretty much anywhere. Each evening will conclude with an original poem inspired by the topics and performed by a local poet. WHEN: Wednesdays from July 7 through August 11, 7 p.m. COST: $10 for virtual; $20 for in-person attendance. WHERE & MORE INFO: Seawell Ballroom (in-person event), 1350 Arapahoe St • mcadenver.org FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK The Santa Fe Arts District comes alive every Friday night offering a great opportunity to contemplate art and to people watch. WHEN: Fridays, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. COST: Free WHERE & MORE INFO: The bulk of the galleries are located along Santa Fe Drive, between 5th and 11th Avenues. • denversartdistrict.org VARIOUS LOCATIONS FARMERS MARKETS EDGEWATER FARMERS MARKET, 5505 W. 20th Ave. Thursdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., through September 16. GOLDEN FARMERS MARKET, 1019 10th St. Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 2. CITY PARK MARKET, City Park Esplanade. Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 20. CHERRY CREEK FARMERS MARKET, 3000 E 1st Ave. Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through September 29 and Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., through October 30. UNIVERSITY HILLS FARMERS MARKET, 5505 W. 20th Ave. Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 30. LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET, Mile Hi Church at 9077 W. Alameda Ave. Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., through September 25. GOLDEN TRIANGLE FARMERS MARKET, 1115 Acoma St. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through September 26 ARVADA FARMERS MARKET, 5700 Olde Wadsworth Blvd. Sundays, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., through September 26. HIGHLANDS FARMERS MARKET, Lowell Blvd. & W. 32nd Ave. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through October 10. SOUTH PEARL STREET FARMERS MARKET, on South Pearl St. between E. Iowa Ave. and E. Arkansas Ave. Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., through November 14. PUZZLE SEARCH WORDS Bin Bombe Broil Bun Cafe Caters Chill Cob Crust Cup Date roll Dill Eggs Flan Flip Flute Fruit Fryer Fuse Grog Ham Hash Honey Hot Jug Lime Lunch Mangle Manna Margarine Mess Mug Muslin Mussel Nut oil Pan Pasta Plug Polish Pot Prune Pulse Punch Rabbit Salt Scoff Sesame Smart Soap Starch Stove Tart Th yme Tin Toss Trap Trivet Tub Tuna Urn COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 July 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 PUZZLE COURTESY OF STREET ROOTS, DENVER VOICE’S SISTER PAPER IN PORTLAND, OR

DONOR 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 DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation $1,000-$4,999 BNSF Railway Foundation Bright Funds Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado City Side Remodeling SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Caring Connection Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Kroger Gaelina Tesfaye Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Matthew Rezek Jerry Conover The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Colorado Cross Disability Colalition Graham Davis Betty & Warren Kuehner Jeremy Anderson Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Paul Hoffman Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Jennifer Stedron Mr. Paul Manoogian 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 Gaspar Terrana Catherine Hegedus Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi James Stegman 3M Foundation 10X Business Consultants SEMOptimize Laura Wing Pivitol Energy Partners Donald Weaver Key Renter Property Management 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 14 DENVER VOICE July 2021 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org July 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLE IS ON PAGE 13

WANT 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

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE MUSIC WILL W PREVAIL WITHOUT AUDIENCES, MUSIC INDUSTRY PROS FIND NICHE IN COVID RESPONSE SERVICES. PAGE 6 HEALTH CENTERS ARE STEPPING UP AS COLORADO’S VACCINATION RATE INCREASES, COMMUNITY HEALTH PROVIDERS LIKE SALUD ARE BECOMING MORE THAN MEDICAL OFFICES. PAGE 4 SKEPTICISM IN THE SERVICE INDUSTRY AS RESTAURANTS AND BARS BEGIN TO FULLY OPEN, SOME SERVICE INDUSTRY WORKERS ARE HESITANT TO RETURN. PAGE 5 HYGIENE AND HEALTH LOCAL NONPROFIT “SHOWERS FOR ALL” AIMS TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND MEET PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE. PAGE 8 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JUNE 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 6 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE TODAY, WHEN I WENT to the grocery store, the arrows that directed people to go “that way” up or down the aisles, had been removed. There were no reminders to keep two cart lengths between me and the person ahead of me in the checkout line. While countless people ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR consistently went the wrong way in grocery aisles when the directional arrows were all over the store, it was strange having the flexibility to decide which direction I would go to get my produce, toilet paper, or coffee. Yesterday, I was at a small outdoor gathering, where all of the attendees had received our COVID-19 vaccinations, so we felt comfortable going mask-less. I forgot how nice it is to see people’s smiles. These are two positives about returning to how we did things before the pandemic, but I wonder how long it will be before we see the negatives. Will those who experienced extreme isolation or depression recover, or have they hit an emotional state of no return? What about those who will continue to consider the virus a hoax or have no intention of getting vaccinated from COVID? How do we get beyond the acrimony that divided so many friends and families? As we return to live concerts, plays, sporting events, restaurants, or any other activities we put on hold during the pandemic, I don’t expect things will instantly (if ever) return to “pre-COVID normal.” I do hope I can appreciate not being paranoid about catching the virus or risking the chance I could pass it on to someone with a compromised immune system. I doubt many of my memories of the pandemic will be positive, but for the most part, I witnessed people coming together, taking care of themselves, and most importantly, looking out for and taking care of each other. ■ June CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. 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. DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Haven Enterman Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. 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: Starting June 1, we will be open Mondays through Fridays 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. John Alexander Brian Augustine Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis Doug Hrdlicka Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson Zephyr Wilkins 2 DENVER VOICE June 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: IVAN EKONEK BY PAULA BARD “I’M 27, FROM GHANA, Accra, in West Africa. I came to this country for education — Chicago community college. That’s why I came to America. I came to the U.S. for advanced education. I lived in Chicago when I first came to America; I was in Chicago, going to school. Yeah, I got a degree; I’m a good electrician. My parents sent me here. I wanted to come to Chicago because when I was in Africa, they have school online from the U.S. And so, then to Denver after that...because it’s dangerous in Chicago. Chicago is so dangerous. Too dangerous. Oh my God! The police were called on me three times. The first one was out at the park. I was just jogging to the park and trying to, you know, raise myself. The police arrive to ask me a question. ‘We had a call on you,’ so I had to wait like 30 minutes [for them] to run my background, everything. ‘Keep walking, just keep walking.’ I went downtown. So, the second time, and it happened again, it was at night in downtown Chicago. They were just focusing on me. I think it’s because I’m Black. Yep, that’s why. Yeah, they just focus on me. They came straight to me. ‘Hey man, we want to have your ID,’ the man is like, ‘are you selling drugs?’ No, I was not selling drugs! Chicago is too dangerous. I’m focused now on getting out; I just want to go, to go home. In Ghana, we got lands, we got horses, we got a farm. A whole plantation, we grow pepper, okra, tomatoes. My grandfather built a lot of things. Families should be helping if you got family. I’m a Christian. But the truth, without a doubt, the truth — America is getting more dangerous, and America is in trouble. Yes.” ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. June 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

Ask a VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q How would you respond if someone asked you, “If I donate to the Denver VOICE today, how will that money benefi t you six months from now?” A JERRY ROSEN It would benefit me in many ways as it would help me support myself in many ways with having the things I need and being able to get the things I need in the future. RAELENE JOHNSON I would let them know if they donate to the VOICE, the money goes to keeping the paper in print, so vendors can keep earning a living. The money also helps keep the office [running] and pays some staff. Please keep the aper going! Thank you from all of us vendors! BRIAN AUGUSTINE You help the Denver VOICE continue publishing, which means I will be able to continue working. I not only keep earning to pay my rent. But, I stay connected with the community I feel so close to and included in now. Also, you keep me the happiest I’ve ever been in my life by doing the job that I love. It’s people that donate to the Denver VOICE that help all the vendors working. Thank you so very much. From all of us. Please see page 12 for an additional response. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE June 2021 CREDIT: GILES CLASEN LOCAL NEWS COMMUNITY HEALTH PROVIDERS TAKE THE LEAD ON VACCINATIONS BY ROBERT DAVIS KARLA CARRANZA of Denver said she got her COVID-19 vaccine because she was ready to reunite with her family and friends after spending a year apart. Dr. Hannah Fields of Estes Park got hers to protect both her family and her patients. Stephanie Flores from Fort Lupton said she got it because her work as a medical provider puts her in close contact with the public. What each of these women has in common is that they got their vaccines from the Salud Family Health Clinic, a community health center that focuses on helping Colorado’s low-income and immigrant communities get vaccinated. As Colorado’s vaccination rate increases, community health centers like Salud are becoming more than medical offices. They are now off-hours service providers, trusted sources of information, and community resource centers, too. They’re also serving as lynchpins of the state’s vaccination efforts. Maisha Fields, the director of community partnerships at Salud Family Health Centers, described this workload to Denver VOICE in an interview as “heavy.” But, she’s found the key to success lies in “connecting with people where they are.” “Normal health care comes with normal business hours. Rather than be another normal provider, we aim to be a trusted provider. We’re able to adjust our method of delivery to meet the needs of our community members,” Fields added. VACCINE EQUITY According to the Center for Disease Control, only 10% of vaccines distributed in Colorado have gone to Hispanic and Latinx communities. Meanwhile, these communities made up 41% of cases and 25% of deaths, according to an analysis of the data by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The song remains the same in the Denver metro area. Communities with strong Hispanic and Latinx populations such as Montbello and Westwood are reporting low vaccination rates, according to the Colorado Health Institute’s COVID-19 Vaccination Map. To address these disparities, Denver opened five community vaccination centers at the following locations: • Barnum Recreation Center - 360 Hooker St. • Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center - 2650 E. 49th Ave. • Swansea Recreation Center - 2650 E. 49th Ave. • John F. Kennedy High School - 2855 S. Lamar St. • Montbello High School - 14274 E. 51st Ave. However, these statistics confirm the fact that several communities in Colorado are not getting the quality of healthcare they deserve, according to Fields. She said that’s why Salud and other community healthcare centers are focusing their efforts on culturally-responsive services in an attempt to increase vaccination rates. Some examples include hosting vaccination drives during the evening or on weekends; driving mobile clinics to churches, parks, and other community centers, and providing walk-in vaccinations. Fields said there have been two keys to Salud’s success: flexible services and building trust in the communities they serve. “It’s not always the voices of the sports stars that people listen to. That’ll work for some, but others will pay more attention to what their neighbor says than what someone on the Denver Broncos says about getting vaccinated,” she said. INFORMATION PIPELINE When Governor Jared Polis retired the state’s COVID-19 dial framework in mid-April, he simultaneously gave local healthcare providers more control over case management and disrupted an information pipeline that many relied on for local data about the pandemic. At the time, officials said the decision was due to several factors including increasing vaccination rates and lower hospitalization rates of elderly Coloradans. In response, several counties—Denver included—made their COVID-19 data publicly available. Others such as Douglas County took the opposite approach. However, the patchwork county-level data available coupled with sensationalized reports of complications caused by the vaccine have made it difficult to repair the information pipeline between scientists and the general public. For community health providers, Fields said, closing this information gap between vulnerable communities and sound science is a critical element of their work. Chief Medical Officer for Salud Tillman Farley told Denver VOICE about some focus groups that Salud has conducted. He said those who self-reported as vaccine hesitant often believed that scientists had a profit motive behind the inoculation. Others were distrustful of medicine more generally. He said these results made one thing resoundingly clear: those who are vaccine-hesitant are becoming tougher sells. Unfortunately, the result is that people distrust an element of medicine that scientists know best: vaccines. “There is nothing that medicine knowns better than vaccines, from the molecular level to the population level,” Farley said. “Immunology is very sound science. There aren’t any hidden dragons left to discover. We’re only getting better at it.” Meanwhile, state COVID data shows Denver County has more than 450 confirmed cases of variant strains – threefourths of which are from the B.1.1.7 strain, which was first identified in the United Kingdom. According to the latest vaccination data from Denver Public Health, 63% of Denver residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Another 43% are fully vaccinated. ■ LOCAL STORY Spring WISH LIST THE LOGO OF A CHIPOTLE RESTAURANT IS SEEN IN GOLDEN, COLORADO. CREDIT: REUTERS/RICK WILKING NOT EVERYONE IN SERVICE INDUSTRY FAVORS LIVING WAGE MODEL BY DOUG HRDLICKA THE FINAL HOURS OF COVID-19 may be upon us – so it would seem with the restrictions being lifted. The joyful idea of the pandemic coming to an end starkly contrasts the call for social distancing and mask-wearing because others may be a threat to us, and we may be a threat to them. But of all the doom and gloom that is present now, as restaurants and bars begin to fully open, is that service industry workers are hesitant to return. In the Facebook group Stupid Questions in the Service Industry, which has more than 16 thousand members, the answer to the hesitancy was varied. In some instances, people used this past year as an opportunity to pursue career ambitions outside the service industry, but among the top reasons are low pay and rude customers. The minimum for a tipped employee is $9.30 across Colorado; the remainder relies on the generosity of the guests. That being the case, jobs in the service industry have been less than gainful this past year, and members of the Facebook service industry group report the attitudes of guests being far more egregious. Some establishments, however, have abolished tips in favor of a salary – the most recent being Chipotle. Starting June 1, the company began paying a minimum wage of $15 per hour in addition to incentives such as education, referral bonuses, and a pathway towards management positions that pay an annual salary of $100,000. “Chipotle is committed to providing industry-leading benefits and accelerated growth opportunities, and we hope to attract even more talent by showcasing the potential income that can be achieved in a few short years,” the company wrote in a newsletter. The decision for a company to pay a salary to its employees is not unique to Chipotle. During the spring of last year Amethyst Coffee, which has three locations in the Denver metro area, also abolished the tips system and began paying their employees $50,000 per year. “We cannot keep relying on tips to pay people a living wage in cities that only get more and more expensive like Denver,” Winn Deburlo with Amethyst Coffee said last year. The move drew national attention and garnered praise from community members and worker advocates. Some, however, disapproved because the wage hike was being passed on to the customers through the price of coffee. The Colorado Restaurant Association added to that by noting employees stand to gain more from a tips system over a salary. Sonya Riggs, the CEO and president of CRA cited Union Square Hospitality Group’s attempt at salary as a cautionary tale. “When Union Square Hospitality Group moved away from tipping, they reported that 40% of their best servers quit,” Riggs said in a letter. “We’ve also heard from some local restaurant groups who have moved away from the traditional tipping model that they lost upwards of 80% of their front-ofhouse staff, who left to work at restaurants operating under traditional tip models.” In the same letter, Riggs, also confirmed the difficulty restaurants are having with finding workers. Small business owners shared similar struggles in the Stupid Questions Facebook group. Many insisted upon wanting to be able to pay workers more, but with the rise in food cost and PPE, they simply didn’t have the revenue. “Restaurants across the state have shared with us that they are struggling to hire enough workers to meet the current demand from diners as patio season gets underway and capacity restrictions ease or are eliminated,” said Riggs. The truth of the matter has yet to be unveiled, though. As of right now, restrictions remain in place, and many people are still receiving pandemic unemployment. But if cases remain low, we may return to normal before summer even begins. “It’s time to say goodbye to capacity limits and distancing requirements,” said Mayor Michael Hancock in a post on his Facebook page, “and for those of us who are vaccinated, time to remove our masks in most circumstances.” ■ DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. June 2021 DENVER VOICE 5 NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Reusable water bottles Sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Flat screen TV Backpacks Umbrellas that can fit into a backpack Ball caps/hats for warm weather Gloves Panchos & windbreakers (Men’s L, XL, XXL)

LOCAL STORY When Sarah Slaton lost her work as a musician due to COVID-19, she and others in the music industry, found new work testing patients for the virus. “It was devastating fi nancially. Between losing my job and having all of my shows canceled, I was really in a rough spot. I was really in a place of self-doubt last summer going into last fall.” Credit: Giles Clasen WITHOUT AUDIENCES, MUSIC INDUSTRY PROS FIND NICHE IN COVID RESPONSE SERVICES BY GILES CLASEN FACING DEVASTATION COVID-19 wasn’t the first time Sarah Slaton’s life was interrupted by illness. In 2009, not long after Slaton graduated college and moved to Denver, her mother was diagnosed with brain cancer. Slaton returned to Arkansas and cared for her mother, who passed away 14 months later. “I felt so fucking lost without her,” Slaton said. “It was like the whole world was upside-down, and I didn’t want to have anything to do with it. I bought a one-way flight to Europe. I took off and went backpacking for a little bit.” In time Slaton returned to Denver and started the band Edison as a tribute to her mother, even using a photo of her mom on the band’s first album. “I just always wanted to pursue being a musician, and I was always afraid to really go for it,” Slaton said. “Things changed, having her voice in the back of my head; I knew I had to just try.” 6 DENVER VOICE June 2021 In 2018, Edison broke up and Slaton began her solo career. She had built momentum going into 2020 and had scheduled a national solo tour. The coronavirus pandemic brought everything to a screeching halt for Slaton, as it did for many other Americans. Unlike some businesses during the pandemic, the music industry couldn’t continue at a limited capacity. Events were canceled and concerts were put on hold. The revenue dried up, and Slaton had no choice but to start collecting unemployment insurance. “It was devastating, financially,” Slaton said. “Between losing my job and having all of my shows canceled, I was really in a rough spot. I was really in a place of self-doubt last summer going into last fall.” Slaton was used to pinching her pennies as a touring musician, but this was different. In December of 2020, Slaton found another break, of sorts, in the music industry. She took a job with a COVID-19 response team for Highline Medical Solutions, an offshoot of Highline Events Solutions. FINDING A SOLUTION Highline had been an experiential marketing company that produced music and sporting events around the world since the mid-1990s. But as was the case with so many, when COVID-19 hit, Highline lost all of its business, and the Highline Event Solutions business struggled to survive. James Deighan, Highline’s managing partner and founder, said in the summer of 2020 the company had to furlough most of their 15 full-time staff and inform their 250 contractors around the country that there would be no work until the pandemic ended. “It was devastating,” Deighan said. “It was very, very difficult. It was very sad, but at the same time, there was absolutely nothing I could do. I held on as long as I possibly could before telling employees we have had for 13 or 18 years.” Deighan looked for any solution to keep his company going. He considered selling his house and even considered becoming a bartender again, a job he hadn’t done since the founding of Highline 26 years ago. Highline did qualify for a Paycheck Protection Program loan from the federal government, which helped him keep his staff paid a bit longer, but it ultimately wasn’t enough. “Come late July, early August, there wasn’t a dime left to spend on staff, let alone overhead,” Deighan said. Just as Highline looked like it might fall, Deighan had an idea. A friend with experience in the medical industry told Deighan about the logistical complexities involved in testing Colorado’s population for COVID. LOCAL STORY Highline had years of experience organizing large-scale events like the Winter X Games, Super Bowl Half Time Shows, Vail Snow Days, and Deighan saw this as a great way to parlay that experience into a different type of enterprise. In the early fall of 2020, Deighan began applying for requests for proposals from the state of Colorado to manage and staff COVID testing sites. Highline Medical Solutions, a new wing of the Highline events business, was born. “I was so excited,” Deighan said. “We kind of put the word out across the country, to the Highline family, to anyone that didn’t have work, to apply their very strong skill sets and help address a serious need in fighting the pandemic.” OPPORTUNITIES FOR PAID WORK Deighan wasn’t the only individual in the music business excited to have paid work in a new industry “We lost not only our jobs but our identity this past year,” Stacy Wiseman said. “Not only are we working now, but we are helping the country open back up.” A tour manager for A-list comedians and bands, Wiseman spent 14 years traveling around the world before the pandemic hit. She learned about the job opportunities with Highline through a Facebook group for music industry professionals. At the vaccine sites, Wiseman helps manage the administration side of the vaccination sites. Wiseman said Highline has managed the sites extremely well because they applied the same efficiencies as those they used to produce events. “This is a mini-festival,” Wiseman said. “We set it up like a tour production office because it works. We say put us in charge because we know how to do this work.” Before working for Highline, Wiseman lived on $167 a week from unemployment. Her unemployment was interrupted on two different occasions because she was a victim of fraudulent claims. “I’ve talked with friends [in the music industry] around the country who are really floored that this is what Denver is doing, hiring industry people,” Wiseman said. “Other individuals around the country haven’t had this option, haven’t been this lucky.” WHATEVER COMES NEXT After Sarah Slaton joined the Highline Medical Solutions team in late December, she got right to work in her new role. In no time, she was donning N95 respirators and face shields, traveling to rural communities, and conducting COVID tests. Slaton learned quickly, despite having little medical experience in her background. She said the biggest demand on her team was helping to calm nerves for people scared of a virus they didn’t fully understand. She was also nervous about getting the virus and spreading it to the people she cared about. “I wasn’t vaccinated the first couple of months that I was doing it,” Slaton said. “There were hundreds of people coming Your Own Medicine plays a streamed show at The Armory Denver. “We were the fi rst to close and may be the last to open because you can’t really book a national tour.” Credit: Giles Clasen to the sites every day for tests, and quite a few people were positive. I’m not going to lie and tell you that I wasn’t anxious, but I knew that we were doing good work.” To cope with the anxiety of the ever-present threat of the virus, Slaton was meticulous about cleanliness. She never went anywhere in public without a mask and used copious amounts of hand sanitizer. Being on the road and living out of hotels as part of the COVID response felt a little like traveling as a musician, too. She even brought her guitar and a mobile recording studio to continue writing music. “I have written a lot of music in the past year,” Slaton said. “I don’t have a full album’s worth by any means, but I definitely have been writing a lot of music, and I’m figuring out what way I’m going to release it. I’m figuring out how I’m going to afford to get it all recorded.” Sam Krentzman said he has seen a lot of resiliency in the creative community this year. Krentzman, the founder of The Armory Denver, a music and recording venue, has been working on “When the Music Stops,” a documentary about the pandemic’s impact on the Colorado music scene. “I actually think that’s the thing about the creative community. It’s not like they’re only able to be creative in a particular scenario,” Krentzman said. “Their creative energy transcends difficult scenarios. We actually saw a lot of people who couldn’t tour or play for audiences go to the studio and start recording. There are a lot of people getting ready for whatever comes next.” REBUILDING THE INDUSTRY But the damage to the Colorado music scene may be lasting and has gone beyond hurting musicians and companies that organize shows. Krentzman said thousands of tradespeople lost their incomes due to COVID. Great shows require skilled sound board operators, lighting technicians, riggers, stage builders — even bartenders — to ensure they run smoothly. Some of these tradespeople left the industry completely in 2020, looking for other work. Some moved away from Colorado during the pandemic. “I know steelworkers and riggers who moved to Florida and Apdiela Pulido receives her second dose of the Pfizer vaccine from Laura Vanston. Highline Medical Solutions. Credit: Giles Clasen Texas building stadiums and stages,” Krentzman said. “Those states had fewer restrictions, so production moved. But [those workers] had to expose themselves to additional risks of COVID in those spaces, leaving the regulations of their home state for work elsewhere.” Krentzman said The Armory Denver struggled to survive. The business only survived because of a grant, virtual shows, the support and generosity from the building’s owner, and Krentzman using his unemployment income to pay the business’s bills. “This is a family affair,” Krentzman said. “It is a group of artists who built this place, and it took a lot of people to keep it going this past year.” There is a chance that Colorado will have a lot of work rebuilding the music scene here. But the music industry is important to Colorado’s economic success. A recent study by Economists, Inc., an economic consulting firm, found that for every dollar generated by music activities, an additional 50 cents is created for adjacent businesses. The music industry supports 2.4 million jobs nationally. The total economy does well when the music industry is thriving. “Everyone benefits from every stage of a musician’s development,” Krentzman said. “I just wish there were more direct investments in the creative arts in Colorado, both in industry development and also artistic development.” Krentzman also said he thinks the live music industry will come back slower than other parts of the economy. “We were the first to close and may be the last to open because you can’t really book a national tour,” Krentzman said. “Every state has different restrictions, so it is very difficult to book right now.” The Colorado Music Relief Fund, managed by Redline Contemporary Art Center, has helped support individuals who work in the Colorado music industry, but the biggest thing someone can do to help bring live shows back to Colorado is to get vaccinated, Krentzman said. “In my personal opinion, the vaccines are very important,” said Krentzman, who was vaccinated. “I feel a sense of personal responsibility for my own health and who I’m obligated to care for in my own life and business. There needs to be a sense of social responsibility to prevent the transmission of the disease and the development of new variants. We need to do as much as we can to keep people safe. The more that people get vaccinated, the fewer [number of] people will die of COVID. I think that that’s a very good goal.” If music events are attended by a mix of individuals who are both vaccinated and unvaccinated, concerts could become hotspots for the spread of the virus. Krentzman said that would likely lead to another shutdown of live music. A second shutdown could be a more devastating injury to the music industry and could be even more difficult to recover from. CREATING MOMENTUM Slaton has already given up hope of reviving her national tour that had been scheduled for 2020. She was vaccinated due to her high risk of exposure while working for Highline and now, she feels safe playing live shows. But she will limit any touring to Colorado this year. She is hoping that the U.S. continues to open safely throughout 2021 and she can have momentum leading into 2022. “I create momentum,” Slaton said. “That’s the reason I am where I am. Everything that I’ve ever done, anything that I’m super proud of, it because I worked at it. I’ll create momentum whatever year it is or whatever day it is.” Slaton released two new songs in 2020, “Time to Go,” and “Get Up.” She has received a strong reception to both and is excited about the following she now has and hopes to expand it significantly over the next year. “I feel like I’m still just trying to keep going and keep getting up each day and just loving the present moment as much as I can,” Slaton said. “I don’t know what I’m going to be doing in two or three months; I don’t know when this is going to end or when I can go back to playing music full-time. I just have to remember that I’ll find my way eventually.” ■ June 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: PAULA BARD HYGIENE AND HEALTH The Dignity Project: Outreach to the Most Vulnerable and Threatened. BY PAULA BARD CLEANLINESS ASSURES US BASIC DIGNITY and allows for participation in the world. Could showers and clean clothes also empower the journey away from homelessness and poverty? Could showers and clean clothes encourage those struggling to feel human and remind them that they matter? For Jennifer Kloeppel and Kellen Berrigan, founders of the Dignity Project, the answer is a resounding yes. Floating above a cityscape splashed with fuchsia and blue mountains, the sign on their open shower and laundry trailer boldly declares “Showers For All.” Kloeppel and Berrigan intend, as their mission statement says, to “restore dignity and hope.” The Showers For All mobile trailer is capable of providing 60 loads of laundry and 60 showers per day in sparkling white bathrooms to anyone who shows up and requests one. They aim to build relationships and, in their words, “meet people where they are.” Kloeppel and Berrigan learn names and share stories while offering the much-appreciated free shower and laundry service. Hygiene is inextricably linked to health. According to Kloeppel, living in dirty clothes can lead to skin conditions 8 DENVER VOICE June 2021 and insect infestations. During menstrual cycles, women unable to keep clean are at risk of infection and toxic shock syndrom, which can be deadly. Job seeking is impossible when hygiene cannot be maintained and puts one at a steep disadvantage when competing with other applicants. Regular showers and laundry can also mean fewer missed school days for children. Overall, as Kloeppel explained, “personal hygiene means feeling valued.” Berrigan and Kloeppel crossed paths while working at St. Andrew Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch. Berrigan was doing audiovisual support and Kloeppel is an outreach and worship director. “We started talking at work and realized that we had a similar passion for making this happen,” said Kloeppel. “We just started dreaming about how we could create this nonprofit and what it would look like to build a combination shower and laundry trailer because the need is here all the time.” They jump-started the project with an online fundraiser. This provided the resources to build out the trailer, According to Kloeppel, “Everything after that has come CREDIT: PAULA BARD COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD from small donors, who have helped just keep it alive. We do a lot of talking to people and telling them why this is important — who benefits. People can recognize the need for it.” Both Kloeppel and Berrigan learned independently that access to showers and laundry was important to those experiencing homelessness. Kloeppel was student teaching in Los Angeles, working in Skid Row, where people would say to her, “I can find food and I can find a shelter if I need it, but I can’t find a laundry or shower.” On the other side of the world, Berrigan was in Australia, when he saw a little car towing around a trailer that had a washer and dryer, doing laundry for people. “Well, this is cool,” he thought. They both carried the seeds of the program when they met in Denver and launched the Dignity Project. “It’s a labor of love, so I get to do my real job, and then I get to do this passion project,” said Kloeppel, “and Kellen gets to do the same thing. We have incredible volunteers. It’s fun!” They both work as volunteers themselves, and they set the Dignity Project up as a nonprofit, so they have no paid staff. So far, the trailer alternates on Fridays and Saturdays the Capitol Hill between two safe outdoor spaces in neighborhood, and they’ve just added Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Amphitheater at Civic Center to their schedule. The Denver Public Library refers people that could use CREDIT: PAULA BARD the services. They have been working with Denver Parks and Recreation to add more parks to the schedule. “Denver Parks and Rec has actually been an incredible partner for us, and they’re working really hard to help us find spaces that will work in the city,” said Kloeppel. “I’m so grateful for them and the work that the team has done to help this happen in city parks.” Showers For All is not the only mobile laundry and shower service available. Denver-based Bayaud Industries also runs a fleet of laundry and shower trucks. Their first laundry truck was created as a result of a specific request from individuals in the unhoused community and was inaugurated back in 2016. According to Cindy Chapman, who oversees Bayaud’s mobile units, participants have said that being able to wear clean clothes can change their whole week. During the pandemic, the City of Denver contracted most of Bayaud’s fleet for the emergency shelters. But when summer warms up, their trucks will again roam throughout the city with their regular schedule published on the Bayaud website. This summer, they look forward to introducing their new combination laundry and shower truck. The attractive Showers For All trailer sits at Denver’s safe outdoor sites on Fridays and Saturdays, and Civic Center’s Amphitheater all day Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is staffed with welcoming volunteers who are busily doing laundry and cleaning while talking to folks. It’s a lively scene. Laundry and showers are free for anyone who just shows up. To see their current schedule, visit www.showersforall.org. ■ June 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY FUNDING NOT GOING DIRECTLY TO TRIBES Typical of this year’s wildfire bills is House Bill 3160, which would establish a fund for community protection against wildfires. The fund draws from a proposed surcharge on insurance policies. It sends the money to the state fire marshal, the Department of Forestry, and the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board. None of that money is set aside for tribal efforts, such as the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s fire program, which has previously collaborated with Oregon Metro on prescribed burns. Rep. Pam Marsh (D-Ashland), vice chair of the House Special Committee on Wildfire Recovery, said this bill is designed to distribute funding through existing state agencies, but some of it might reach tribes secondhand. “Although tribes aren’t called out in the initial legislation, I am confident that they would be targeted in the funding process,” she said. “However,” she added, “We should think about that.” But Danny Santos, interim director of the Legislative Commission on Indian Services, said the perception that non-tribal participants, such as the Forestry Department, will take up tribal interests has not historically worked in the best interests of tribes. “Some state agencies, other governmental entities, and PHOTO BY KARSTEN WINEGEART ON UNSPLASH WHY ARE INDIGENOUS TRIBES EXCLUDED FROM POLICYMAKING WHEN THEIR PRACTICES ARE USED TO FIGHT WILDFIRES? BY BRIAN OASTER Last year, lawmakers responded to 2020’s devastating wildfires, which burned over a million acres in Oregon, by introducing a slew of bills aimed at wildfire prevention, management, and recovery. Also last year, a growing body of scientific research came to light supporting the effectiveness of traditional Indigenous land management practices in preventing uncontrolled wildfires. But Native representation in decision-making processes is meager compared to business interests. ANOTHER WILDFIRE SEASON IS ALREADY UNDERWAY, with fires burning around Klamath Falls. Drought conditions across 85% of Oregon have threatened a worse fire season than last year. Lawmakers responded to 2020’s devastating wildfires, which burned over a million acres in Oregon, by introducing a slew of bills aimed at wildfire prevention, management, and recovery. Also last year, a growing body of scientific research came to light supporting the effectiveness of traditional Indigenous land management practices in preventing uncontrolled wildfires. Foremost among these practices are prescribed burns, a method of intentionally burning the land every few years, under controlled conditions, to prevent the build-up of fuel like deadfall and overgrowth and promote fire-adapted ecosystems, thus preventing uncontrolled outbreaks of wildfires like the ones we saw last year. But despite the research supporting Native expertise, Oregon lawmakers have left Native people almost entirely out of the decision-making and funding processes aimed at changing the pattern of uncontrolled summer and autumn fires — even as the state works to implement tribal knowledge. legislators may still assume that tribal interests (for one and sometimes every tribe) are covered in their meetings, memos, policies, and proposals,” Santos said. But consultation means “having meaningful dialogue in developing plans, not simply informing tribes of what actions (are) to be taken.” Another bill, House Bill 2273, seeks to establish a forestry task force and doesn’t specify the inclusion of tribal representatives. Yet another proposal, House Bill 3282, would require the Forestry Department to study and make recommendations about wildfire prevention, but makes no mention of consulting Indigenous scientists. The absence of Native people from these bills contrasts starkly with the strong representation of business interests. A few fire bills have overt economic tones. House Bill 3279 would offer grant money to private contractors with air curtain burners to help with fuel reduction — money that could go to tribal fire programs for the same purpose. House Bill 2795 aims to give $5 million from the general fund to support “Good Neighbor Authority Agreement projects.” These are projects, according to Oregon law, “that increase timber harvest volume” and “maximize economic benefit to this state.” One wildfire bill mentions Natives directly. House Bill 2722 seeks to create a committee to advise policymakers on land use and wildfires. The 22-person committee would include one Native person to represent the nine federally recognized tribes across Oregon. Also around the table would be developers, real estate agents, farmers, utility companies, and landowners. One Native person out of 22 slightly over-approximates Oregon’s Native population by percentage — 3% of Oregonians are Native — but doesn’t necessarily account for the unique expertise Native communities can bring to the table and their unique stake in caring for the land. Santos said that expecting one person to represent the diverse governmental, economic, and environmental positions of the nine tribes — which are not always in strict accordance with one another, or with settler conservation efforts — is like expecting a representative of Portland to speak for other parts of the state. “The city of Portland cannot be seen as speaking for all Oregon cities. Malheur County cannot be seen as speaking 10 DENVER VOICE June 2021 PAGE TITLE for all Oregon counties,” Santos said. “At the same time, notifying a tribe and consulting with them clearly does not reflect all the interests, concerns, and needs of Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes.” NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED TRIBES At a federal level, Santos noted, two Oregon tribes recently became the first to be nationally recognized for their forest management systems. The Coquille Indian Tribe was the first to apply for, and to be granted, the Indian Trust Asset Management Plan. This federal program gives Coquille the authority to manage their lands, which are held in trust by the Department of the Interior, without needing approval from the secretary of the Interior. Earlier this year, the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians in Southwest Oregon became the second tribe to win land management sovereignty through the Indian Trust Asset Management Plan. The program gives the Coquille and Cow Creek Umpqua tribes sovereignty to manage their forest lands as they see fit, but it doesn’t provide funding or engage them with statewide land use planning or wildfire prevention efforts. Susan Ferris, public affairs person with the Cow Creek Umpqua Tribe, said Native people should be included in statewide discussions about land management and wildfire prevention. “In the beginning,” she said, “all the forest lands in Oregon were managed, and managed well, by Oregon’s Indigenous peoples. … It would seem now that people are making a concerted effort to manage our forests better, that it would only be sensible and right to include Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes.” USING KNOWLEDGE, BUT NOT LEADERSHIP While Native people are largely omitted from state wildfire legislation, Native knowledge is not. Controlled burns have arrived at the doorstep of Oregon law. House Bill 2572 would allow neighboring property owners to collaborate on controlled burns. This would update the current state law, which calls any fire crossing property lines “uncontrolled.” And House Bill 2571 would commission a study of liability for prescribed fires, to see what’s worked in other states. Marsh, the Democrat from Ashland, acknowledges these two bills are explicitly based on traditional Indigenous knowledge. “When we talk about them, we always note that we are trying to re-establish traditions that were known and implemented by our tribes,” she said. These two bills pave the way for more prescribed burns, but they don’t mention Natives, designate Native leadership, or fund Native wildfire efforts. Santos said there remains a lack of understanding of how much tribes have to contribute to statewide discussions. “While challenges remain, there have been great advancements in having tribal voices around the table,” Santos said. At a meeting on 13 April for the Natural and Cultural Resources Task Force, part of Gov. Kate Brown’s disaster cabinet response to the wildfire relief and recovery efforts, Santos said, “Tribal representatives got information and made valuable inquiries related to tribal interests” and were “made aware of funding opportunities.” He said tribal consultations like this are happening more frequently across other cabinets and state agencies, as well. Government-to-government relations between tribes and the state have improved, Santos said, but there’s still a long way to go. ■ Courtesy of Street Roots / INSP.ngo 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP DANIEL ANGEL MARTINEZ MY MAKESHIFT HOME Why would I want a roof over my head? Why would one want boxed-in isolation? I would rather have open space instead. I can go anywhere in nature’s spread With no particular destination. Why would I want a roof over my head? As for partnerships that share a bed, Maybe I don’t need cohabitation. I would rather have open space instead. “There is room for everyone,” they said. Yet, shelters lack accommodation. Why would I want a roof over my head? With a world of campsites, no need to dread Whether one can book a reservation. I would rather have open space instead. All the so-called comforts of home I shed In my bittersweet emancipation. Why would I want a roof over my head? I would rather have open space instead. A COLLABORATION BY THE EDGEWATER HARD TIMES WRITING WORKSHOP HOPE Hope is the breath that makes survival possible, a little word, well-balanced. When you’re an outsider, it’s almost impossible to come inside— so hand out public encouragement, for we are picked & pruned for the purpose of romance. Hope is a bird once nestled in a tree beneath your ribs, an eagle in flight that will escape. It is the phoenix within us that will soar. Hope is the last crumb that tells me I can go on. June 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS Pain, BE GONE! BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR FOR SO LONG GROWING UP, all Self felt was pain, misery, despair, and unhappiness. How does Self know to just let go, tell someone their pain, keep telling someone until someone can help Self? What about for kids, that don’t know they keep the pain going, lost, trapped? Self gets good at hiding their pain, masking all they went through. Over time, Self believes they can handle it – “the pain.” As Self gets older, drugs and alcohol will numb the pain, RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA and at first, it works. Self feels better with a little help! Self just doesn’t know what will happen over time to them until it is too late! Self will keep killing Self until Self lets go of what is holding them back. Deal with whatever Self went through or is still going through so Self can heal! Once healing happens, Self can start a better life. Freedom is the best gift Self can give Self, so, Self, let go of pain. Let pain be gone! Self, is worth it! ■ Subscribe online: NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! DENVERVOICE.ORG/SUBSCRIPTIONS Become a Denver VOICE subscriber and get the paper delivered directly to your mailbox every month. Both personal and business subscriptions are available. Your donation goes directly to support our program! Ask a VENDOR BY JOHN ALEXANDER, VOICE VENDOR The following is John’s response to this month’s Ask a Vendor question. Because there wasn’t room to fit his entire answer on page 4, we have published it in this section. The question was, “How would you respond if someone asked you, ‘If I donate to the Denver VOICE today, how will that money benefit you six months from now?’” IF I AM OR WERE TO EVER BE BLESSED to cross paths with a person wanting to donate the Denver VOICE, and their only requirement of me in exchange would be to give them some idea of how that money would benefit me six months later, I would start by sharing that their support enables the VOICE to accomplish things like paying for the lease for the office, the utilities, [the cost of printing] our papers, and the many, many other obligations that are constant. The fact being pointed out here is that your support, donations, and cash are gifts that keep on giving. For example, six months from now, I and many people like me will still be able to come to a sheltered place, buy papers, and maintain our business. We will still have a place to congregate with friends and seek help, counsel, etc. There will be many things and countless ways that I will benefit from any donations, six months or even six years from now. ■ JOHN ALEXANDER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 12 DENVER VOICE June 2021 EVENTS FIRST FRIDAY: JAZZ IN THE PLAZA Free jazz in the plaza, featuring Purnell Steen and LeJazz Machine. WHEN: June 4, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. COST: Free WHERE & MORE INFO: Charles R. Cousins Plaza, 2401 Welton St. | facebook.com/FirstFridayFivePoints SATURDAY NIGHT BAZAAR: SLOAN’S LAKE This weekly market will feature 30+ local vendors, pop-up bars, food trucks, live music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are welcome; this event runs through October 2. WHEN: June 5, 12, 19, and 26, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE & MORE INFO: 1611 Raleigh St. | facebook.com/DenverBazaar BOULTER’S FARMERS MARKET ACROSS Check out this new Thursday morning market, featuring fresh produce, prepared foods, and a variety of crafts and quality goods from local makers. WHEN: June 17 and 24, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m COST: Free entry. WHERE & MORE INFO: 5505 West 20th Ave. | boultersfarmersmarkets.com LOST CITY LIVE WITH SARAH SLATON AND BRIANNA STRAUT Come on out for a night of live, local music and feel-good vibes on the patio of Lost City. WHEN: June 25, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. COST: Tickets start at $25 WHERE & MORE INFO: 3459 Ringsby Ct. | facebook.com/lostcitydenver DENVER PRIDEFEST Denver PrideFest 2021 is combining both virtual and in-person events for folks to celebrate however they’d like. Participants can enjoy a virtual parade, a virtual + in-person 5K, an online marketplace, and in-person pride hubs, featuring a pool party, live music, DJs, drag brunch, family-friendly events, and more! WHEN: Jun 26 and Jun 27, times vary COST: Donations accepted WHERE & MORE INFO: Online and various locations | denverpride.org 1. Andean tubers 5. Glasgow gal 9. Imitates a crow 13. Big name in pineapples 14. Celtics point guard ___ Irving 15. Assortment 16. In an unsettling manner 19. Does without 20. Held off 21. German river to the North Sea 22. “Back in the ___” 23. Big name in child education 27. Big-ticket ___ 31. Fencing swords 32. Disobeyed a zoo sign? 33. Ricelike pasta 34. “My Name Is Asher ___” (Chaim Potok novel) 35. Plant bristles 37. Painter’s medium 38. Not kosher 40. “___ you nuts?” 41. Hot spot 43. Wrapped garment 44. Plan that has no chance of success 47. X-ray units 49. Breakdancing move, with “the” 50. Operatic villains, oft en 52. Capital of Indonesia 55. Reproduction without fertilization 58. Jewish month 59. Basic assumption 60. Rational 61. Frost-covered 62. Newspaper page 63. False alternative DOWN 1. Eccentric 2. Hairdo 3. ___-ran (loser) 4. Exude 5. French high schools 6. Greek war god 7. Knight’s title 8. Reserved 9. With vigor, musically 10. Aquatic plant 11. Cunning 12. Kind of sauce 14. Door openers 17. Makes eyes at 18. “___ magic!” 22. Fertilizer compound 23. Cheesy sandwiches 24. “Th e Barber of Seville,” e.g. 25. “Well, I ___!” 26. Frequently 28. Rainbow ___ 29. Online publication 30. Back tooth 35. Home of a famous zoo 36. God of love 39. “To begin with...” 41. Kitchen wrap 42. Chair part 45. Bent or shaped metal 46. Arcade coin 48. ___ Wednesday 50. “___ Ha’i” 51. Lily variety 52. “By ___!” 53. Boris Godunov, for one 54. Hokkaido native 55. Th e “p” in m.p.g. 56. Chill 57. “Didn’t I tell you?” COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, who provides this list of ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 June 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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 DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation $1,000-$4,999 BNSF Railway Foundation Bright Funds Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado City Side Remodeling SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Caring Connection Kroger Gaelina Tesfaye Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. 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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 14 DENVER VOICE June 2021 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org June 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

EAT & benefi ts the GIVE! Bring this ad to Fat Sully’s Tennyson location, and they will donate 25% of the cost of your meal to the Denver VOICE! TJUNE 15 uesday, 5-11 p.m. 4275 Tennyson St. 80212 WHEN / WHERE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE VEHICLE DWELLING IN RURAL COLORADO HUNDREDS ARE ESTIMATED TO BE SHELTERING IN VEHICLES IN THE DENVER METRO AREA PAGE 8 CLOWNING IS SERIOUS BUSINESS PSYCHIATRIST FLAVIO FALCONE HAS BECOME AN ICON IN BRAZIL FOR HIS UNIQUE APPROACH TO REACHING HOMELESS DRUG ADDICTS PAGE 4 PAYING THE PRICE RENTERS FACING EVICTION MUST SELF-ADVOCATE TO RECEIVE HELP PAGE 6 WORDS FROM VACCINATED STREET PAPER VENDORS STREET PAPER VENDORS ARE BEGINNING TO RECEIVE THE COVID VACCINE, AND WITH THE WORLD OPENING UP AGAIN, THAT’S MORE THAN WELCOME. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MAY 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 5 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: CREDIT: PAULA BARD

EDITOR’S NOTE SINCE LAST MARCH, several VOICE vendors have not been comfortable with being around others, so as more of them return to their vending spots, we are finally getting a chance to hear their stories of how things have been for them. For this issue, we asked vendors ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR what things they weren’t able to do this past year that they’re looking forward to doing again. You can read their responses on page 4. We’re also hoping to publish a special issue later this summer, where vendors will share more about their experiences over the past 12-plus months. An additional outlet where vendors will be telling their stories is the recently launched City Cast Denver podcast. Each month, City Cast airs VOICE on the Street, which is a segment that features a Denver VOICE vendor. For their first installment in March, they interviewed John Alexander. Early on in the shutdown, Alexander had COVID. One day, he wakened in a hospital bed to discover he’d been there for several weeks, recovering from the virus. You can check out City Cast, or subscribe to their newsletter by visiting citycast.fm/denver. If you are among those who are leaving the house more these days, keep an eye out for Denver VOICE vendors. If you would like a copy of the latest issue but don’t have any cash on hand, you can pay with Venmo. As VOICE vendor Raelene Johnson points out, not only are Venmo payments convenient for both readers and vendors, it also can be a happy surprise when vendors discover that one of their buyers has donated more than the suggested $2. That additional amount can make all the difference in a vendor’s day. ■ May CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. 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: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. WRITERS Lando Allen Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis Frances Ford Pepper-Lee Raelene Johnson Jerry Mullenix Larmarques Smith BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Chris Boulanger Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson Zephyr Wilkins 2 DENVER VOICE May 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: CHARI BY PAULA BARD CHARI AND HER HUSBAND began their married life at Resurrection Village, a tent city set up north of Downtown Denver. The Village was created to honor Dr. King’s 1968 Resurrection City, a Washington DC vision of organizing the poor for racial and economic justice. ■ OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. May 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

Ask a VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q Over the past year, what was something you couldn’t do that you’re looking forward to returning to? COURTESY OF REUTERS / INSP.NGO CLOWNING IS SERIOUS BUSINESS FOR DOCTOR TO HOMELESS COMMUNITY IN A RAELENE JOHNSON Being able to visit in people’s homes. Being able to go sight-seeing at places that have been closed for the last eyar. Also, being able to travel more! JERRY MULLENIX Getting back to work for the VOICE and getting my camper running so I can get on the road. LARMARQUES SMITH Going to an amusement park. I used to go to amusement parks every summer. I plan to get a season pass to Elitch Gardens. BRAZIL’S “CRACKLAND” BY JAKE SPRING Costumed as a jester with a bright red nose, psychiatrist Flavio Falcone has become an icon in Brazil’s “cracolandia,” treating a growing number of Brazilians driven onto the street by the COVID-19 pandemic which has devastated the country’s economy. Working with actress Andrea Macera, Falcone uses costumes and music to break the ice with those who are homeless as a first step to getting them the mental health and addiction treatment they need. IN HIS WHITE DOCTOR’S JACKET, psychiatrist Flavio Falcone could not get homeless drug addicts to talk. But costumed as a jester with a bright red nose, he has become an icon in Brazil’s “cracolandia,” or crackland: a dangerous wasteland of about eight blocks in the historic center of Sao Paulo where addicts twitch and pushers roam. Falcone’s patients know him as The Clown, not as a doctor. He treats a growing number of Brazilians driven onto the street by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has devastated the country’s economy. Early government support, a lifeline for many, has also wavered. “This character represents the exposure of mistakes, of the fragility of what exists in the shadow. The exposure of failures,” said Falcone. “What makes you laugh is the clown that trips, not the What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE May 2021 clown who walks straight. The people who are on the street are really the failures of capitalist society.” Falcone is not your average carnival clown. Infused with hip-hop street culture, he sports a gold chain and flat brimmed cap and struts the streets followed by a speaker blaring rap. Working with actress Andrea Macera, Falcone uses the costumes and music to break the ice with the homeless as COURTESY OF REUTERS / INSP.NGO a first step to getting them the mental health and addiction treatment they need. During “radio” time organized by Falcone and Macera, homeless people in crackland can request songs and even rap along. Around the public square, addicts huddle together and openly light up slim crack pipes. His work in the neighborhood since 2012 has earned him a loyal following. One man who received addiction help from Falcone tattooed the word “clown” in Portuguese on his wrist. With government support receding from crackland, Falcone has tried to fill the void. In April 2020, one month after the pandemic first hit Brazil, the government closed down a homeless shelter as part of an effort to clean up the city center to make way for construction. The nearest shelter is about 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) away. Falcone and Macera helped find housing for about 20 of those displaced and distributed 200 tents provided by a Brazilian non-government organization. In late 2020, they launched a new program called “Roof, Work and Treatment” to offer support to the homeless, with funding from the local labour prosecutor’s office. NATIONAL STORY LOCAL NEWS The homeless population has surged after 600 reais ($106.16) per month government emergency aid payments to the poor were reduced and eventually ran out at the end of 2020. After a delay in congressional approval, payments are set to resume this month at an even lower rate. For many, that help is too little, too late. Millions have sunk into poverty since the start of the year. For Jonatha de David Sousa Reis and Bruna Kelly Simoes, that meant losing their home. The couple moved into a makeshift tent strung between two trees on a public square in crackland this year. “As long as there are no jobs, the emergency payment should have been maintained as it was,” Reis, 34, said. “It’s been difficult, very difficult.” They are arriving on the streets just as COVID-19 hits the deadliest point on record in Brazil. Every week since late February has seen new daily records for deaths from coronavirus. Soon, Brazil may overtake the U.S. record of 3,285 deaths per day, based on a seven-day average, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington. Reis said he hoped to get a job back at habitability standards – received 1,268 substandard living complaints. That total has grown by 20% since 2017, according to the agency’s data. However, the new license would only apply to parcels of land, not individual units. The ordinance says this approach is meant to create more equity and streamline both the implementation process and fee collection. The ordinance is co-sponsored by Councilwoman Robin Kneich (At-Large) and Council President Pro Tem Jamie Torres (District 3). The stakeholder group includes the City of Boulder, Elevation Community Land Trust, and the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. “This code shall be construed to ensure public health, safety, and welfare insofar as they are affected by the continued occupancy and maintenance of these structures and premises. In the future, efficiency standards for rental properties to ensure emission reductions, improved indoor air quality and affordability of rentals for tenants and landlords may be implemented into these provisions,” the ordinance reads. According to data from Denver’s assessor’s office, the the shipping company where he used to work once the pandemic eases, although that seems unlikely to happen soon. Epidemiologists expect the outbreak to worsen in the months to come. Brazil is second to only the United States in deaths and cases. For Jailson Antonio de Oliveira, 51, Falcone is his main lifeline. The clown’s philanthropy effort pays for a room for himself and his girlfriend, even if he can no longer afford meat after the emergency payments ran out. “Today I have a better life because of Flavio Falcone, the clown,” said Oliveira, with clown tattooed on his wrist. “He’s my right arm, he helps with everything he can.” ■ Courtesy of Reuters / INSP.ngo ordinance would apply to approximately 37% of the city’s housing stock that is currently rented – or around 520,000 properties. This includes 19% of single-family homes, 38% of condos, and 26% of rowhouses. Phase 1 is expected to go into effect on January 1, 2022. It will open rental licensing for all dwelling units on a given parcel. Phase 2 will go into effect the following year and require landlords who offer, provide, or operate two or more rental dwellings to be licensed. Examples include apartment buildings, condo units, and rowhome units. Phase 3 will require landlords who offer a single rental unit on a given parcel to be licensed. This includes single-family homes and ADUs. These licenses will be renewable every four years unless property ownership changes. Application fees for the license will vary by property type, DENVER PLANS LONG-TERM RENTAL PROPERTY LICENSE AMID PUSH FOR GREATER PROTECTIONS FOR RENTERS BY ROBERT DAVIS COUNCIL PRESIDENT STACY GILMORE (District 11) introduced an ordinance on Wednesday, April 14, to create a long-term rental license for landlords designed to promote healthy homes across the city. The purpose of the ordinance is to centralize regulations for landlords and tenants of residential property, according to the ordinance’s text. Currently, Denver does not track its rental stock data nor keep records of landlords and operators. If passed, the ordinance would require landlords to provide an executed copy of leases greater than 30 days to the city and provide tenants with information about their rights. Tenants must also be informed of their rights and resources in cases where a landlord formally demands rental payments. To obtain a license, landlords would need to have a certified private home inspector inspect their units before applying. Parcels with two or more rental units will be required to have at least 10% of their units inspected at random. These provisions mirror Boulder’s rental license model. Last year, Denver’s Department of Public Health and Environment – which oversees the city’s residential according to the plan. Early licensing during Phase 1 will be $25 but can be cut in half during the early phase. Phases 2 and 3 will require a $50 application fee. Similarly, license fees will be assessed depending on the number of units a rental property offers. Single dwelling units such as apartments will have a $50 license fee, while a building offering 250 or more units will pay a $500 license fee. These fees are refundable if the license is not approved. Building types that are exempt from these regulations include on-campus college housing, boarding homes, shortterm rentals, and commercial lodging such as hotels. This includes new builds that are less than four years old. Affordable housing developments where 80% or more of units are income-restricted must show proof of inspection, even those owned by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The plan was announced amid a concerted effort by City Council and state lawmakers to increase legal protections for renters across the state. Council members Candi CdeBaca (District 9) and Amanda Sawyer (District 5) are working to build on the city’s eviction legal defense program from 2018. The proposal would limit protections to renters earning up to 80% of the city’s median income—approximately $60,000 per year. It would also establish a new office within the Department of Housing Stability that would be responsible for overseeing the problem. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are debating Senate Bill 21-173, which would provide renters with a legal avenue to seek recourse against a landlord for an illegal eviction. It also prohibits rental agreements from containing provisions that would shift fees from landlords to renters. ■ Spring WISH LIST NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Reusable water bottles Hand-warmers, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Refurbished laptops or desktop computers Backpacks Ball caps/hats for warm weather Gloves Panchos & windbreakers (Men’s L, XL, XXL) DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. May 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL STORY PAYING THE PRICE Renters facing eviction must self-advocate to receive help BY GILES CLASEN AND ROBERT DAVIS ALLEN BOE LIVES FOR THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE. He gets joy from volunteering and serving others. He enjoys a smoke. He likes getting takeout now and again. And he loved his old apartment. The apartment wasn’t much to speak of, but it was Boe’s. He kept it clean and spent a lot of time watching TV. Most importantly, Boe could afford the apartment on his Social Security income. Boe had $250 left of his Social Security each month after paying his rent and his phone bill – his most significant monthly expenses. He also had food stamps. “I could live a good life on $250 a month after my bills were paid,” Boe said. On October 20, 2020, Boe found a note taped to his door from Cornerstone, an apartment management company, saying he had less than two months to vacate the apartment he loved. The building had been sold and would be undergoing construction before it was reopened to new renters. Cornerstone was hired by the new owner to manage the building moving forward. Boe didn’t have a backup plan or significant savings. He was never able to save much for retirement. After receiving the notice that his lease wouldn’t be renewed, Boe looked for a new apartment. Realizing he couldn’t afford much in the Denver area, Boe wasn’t sure what his next step would be, but he was coming to the realization that he was likely to be homeless. Luckily, Boe walked by the Safe Outdoor Space in Capitol Hill as volunteers were working on it. The Safe Outdoor Space’s campsite is a legally sanctioned, temporary encampment for individuals experiencing homelessness. It is managed by Colorado Village Collaborative and located in the parking lot of Denver Community Church. Boe utilized his background in construction and volunteered to help build the shelter. This ensured that Boe was able to live in the encampment when he moved out of his apartment. After moving into the camp, Boe realized the space serves a much bigger purpose to the unhoused community. “I don’t think people understand what it is like to be homeless,” Boe said. “Everyone else looks at you like you’re worthless. But I want to see them try it. It takes a lot of work to get through a day. Just getting the things you need, getting around, getting to appointments, trying to find food, trying to find housing – it takes work to be homeless.” Boe also acknowledged the role community plays for those experiencing homelessness. “Everybody is in this together. We need to help each other. Sometimes, just a pat on the back means everything to these people.” At 65-years-old, Boe still has the energy to work a regular job, but it’s been difficult to find someone to give him the opportunity. After fracturing his leg on a job site several years ago, Boe was forced into retirement. He’s been collecting disability and Social Security benefits ever since and hopes to find rental assistance to afford an apartment in Denver. A PRICE TO PAY Before being evicted, Boe lived at the Cornerstone Apartments at 1317 N. Pearl St. in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. For their part, Cornerstone offered to refund residents one month of rent plus their security deposit for the inconvenience. Shannon MacKenzie, deputy director of the Colorado CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Poverty Law Project, described Boe’s case as heartbreaking because it represents a loophole that landlords exploit in the eviction moratoria put in place due to COVID-19. The moratoria, issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Congress via the CARES Act, protected approximately 6 DENVER VOICE May 2021 LOCAL STORY 46% of the nation’s renters from eviction in most cases, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. Meanwhile, the moratorium Polis issued in March 2020 provided a broader set of protections for renters and homeowners. However, Polis’s order expired on January 1, 2021. State lawmakers went a step further to provide residents of mobile homes with additional means of avoiding eviction. They passed several amendments to the Colorado Mobile Home Park Act during the 2020 legislative session, one of which allows tenants to stay in their unit after their lease expires if they have nowhere else to go. Only under very limited circumstances could these renters be evicted. MacKenzie said Boe might have been protected from a lease termination if he had filed a Declaration of Need, the document required to evoke state-level protections from eviction. This document could have allowed Boe to stay in place until June 30, 2021. However, MacKenzie said this raises another issue with Colorado’s system – it doesn’t fully educate renters about their rights. “We are seeing tons of folks who don’t know about the protections or that they have to sign a declaration to evoke the protections,” MacKenzie told the Denver VOICE in an emailed statement. Since Colorado’s protections ended, MacKenzie said the courts that once dismissed eviction holdover cases are now ushering them through. She has also seen cases where tenants obtain rental assistance, pay their landlord back and future rent, and still have eviction proceedings filed against them by landlords. One way to stem the impending flow of evictions would be to implement protections for apartment lease holdovers similar to those afforded to mobile home residents, MacKenzie added. However, Colorado’s political climate makes it difficult to imagine a path forward for this kind of legislation. “I can guarantee pushing forth that legislation would be met with great opposition from the Apartment Association, the Tschetter law firm (a Colorado law firm specializing in representing landlords in eviction cases), and other property owner groups,” MacKenzie said. THE SYSTEM FAILED Charlie Hogan, who is the chief operating officer with Cornerstone, said that Boe’s situation was unfortunate. He said Cornerstone tried to offer Boe and the other residents as many opportunities as possible to find a new home before they had to vacate their apartment. Cornerstone also offered to return the rental deposit to all renters and gave an incentive that if renters moved out by November 30, 2021, the renters would receive back one month’s rent. “Understand that from a property management standpoint, our clients, our customers, are renters,” Hogan said. “We really do come from a place of trying to make sure that we’re providing great customer service.” Hogan said that Boe and the other residents of the building were on month-to-month leases. Landlords and renters each can find value in this kind of lease because it offers flexibility to both parties. Unfortunately, such a lease also leaves renters vulnerable to a lease that may be terminated by the landlord at any time and with little notice. According to Hogan, the previous landlord did a disservice to Boe and the others by not signing long-term rental agreements. Landlords are required by law to give renters a 15-day notice when their lease is being terminated. Cornerstone went beyond that requirement, providing the residents of 1317 N. Pearl St. with a 52-day termination notice. Hogan said Boe never reached out to Cornerstone to ask about other rental possibilities within the company or explain his circumstances. Instead, Boe stopped paying rent and remained in the apartment beyond the date he was required to move out. Disputing this claim, Boe said that he has records of the calls he made to Cornerstone, but those calls were focused on getting back his deposit, not asking for help with finding a new apartment. Cornerstone started the eviction process in December of 2020 but stopped once Boe left the property on December 18. Cornerstone then waived any legal fees associated with beginning the eviction process. Additionally, the company did not pursue the back rent Boe had not paid and returned his security deposit to him. Hogan said Cornerstone works to offer apartments at competitive rates. The company manages 4,700 apartments, and the company’s average rent is $1,200 per month. This is below the average Denver rental cost of $1,464 according to the Apartment Association of Metro Denver. The average household income of Cornerstone’s renters is $43,000, well below the Denver median household income of $68,592. Cornerstone also has more than 100 renters who receive Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, a housing assistance program for low-income individuals. Hogan said he couldn’t guess at a hypothetical of what he would have done had Boe called the company for help. He also said that because Boe didn’t reach out and instead stopped paying rent, there isn’t much Cornerstone could do. They can’t help someone if they don’t know a renter needs help. Jim Lorensen, president and founder of Cornerstone, seconded Hogan, adding, “We’re not a social agency. At some point, people need to ask for help. Where is his family? Where are his friends? Where is his church? If [Boe] needed it then he should have asked for assistance. There are systematic failures here, and unfortunately, this guy got caught in that downdraft.” Lorensen said he believes his company went above and beyond in trying to show compassion to Boe and the other renters of the building. Cornerstone could have pursued collection of the back rent Boe didn’t pay, or they could have kept the deposit in lieu of rent. Instead, Cornerstone issued Boe a new check for the deposit once they learned Boe hadn’t received the first one. Lorensen also explained that the sale of the Pearl Street property was not a major corporate transaction. “The individual who owns this property is not some wealthy individual or some large corporation. They bought this building as an investment.” According to tax records from the Denver Assessor’s Office, the building at 1317 Pearl St was sold to a company called 1317 Pearl, LLC. for $3.5 million in October 2020. That LLC was formed in September 2020, and the main address registered for 1317 Pearl, LLC. with the state of Colorado is the same address as Riker Capital, a Chicagobased investment company. MARKETED OUT Boe said that staying at the Safe Outdoor Space has given him a little hope. He’s seen several of his neighbors get jobs and move out of the camp, and he is saving every penny he can to help him move into a new apartment. Boe believes he’ll get his chance to find an apartment and is hopeful he will receive some rental assistance. But he fears without assistance he won’t be able to afford an apartment for long. According to the latest data from the Colorado Association of Realtors (CAR), Denver’s affordability index dropped 10% during 2020. The affordability index measures whether housing is affordable for those earning the median income for the region. In Denver, the median wage is now approximately 70% of what is necessary to afford a median-priced single-family home and just 78% of what is needed to be competitive in the overall market, according to the index. One factor for the drop in affordability is the city’s historically low inventory. In March 2007, shortly before the Great Recession began, Denver had more than 25,000 homes listed for sale. In March 2021, that total stood at just over 1,900, representing a 70% year-over-year decline, according to CAR data. The short supply of homes also has caused home values to appreciate at record paces. Last year, home values appreciated nearly 22% in Denver County, according to CAR. The median home price stands at $635,000 while the average sale price is nearly $100,000 more. Because of increasing home prices and lower inventory, more individuals are renting. This increased demand for rental properties means an increased cost for apartments, adding financial stress to those with lower incomes. Meanwhile, the pool of competitors for homes has grown to include private equity and other investment firms. A report by The Wall Street Journal found many firms are investing in large swaths of land and existing apartment structures to renovate and flip for a premium return. According to the John Burns Consulting Firm out of Houston, investors have likely accounted for around 24% of home sales in real estate boomtowns such as Miami and Las Vegas. The firm also anticipates this trend to continue, which will lead home values to see two more years of doubledigit increases. The fast-rising costs of housing in Denver leave individuals like Boe more vulnerable to becoming homeless. Boe said he never expected to be homeless. He worked his whole life and took care of himself. He never made enough to save much for retirement but hoped his Social Security would be enough so that he wouldn’t have to worry about money once he left work. As Boe pointed out, if this could happen to him, it could happen to anyone. Explaining how he felt about being evicted, Boe said bluntly, “It is kind of heartless,” he said. “People should be a lot more understanding of other people’s situation and not be so worried about money.” ■ For information about emergency rental and mortgage assistance, visit cdola.colorado.gov/rental-mortgage-assistance. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN May 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE Seen but Unseen: VEHICLE DWELLING IN RURAL COLORADO BY PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD THE SAFE PARKING INITIATIVE Sheltering in vehicles is often the last stop. SHELTERING IN VEHICLES is often the last stop. Hundreds of individuals and families are estimated to be sheltering in vehicles in the Denver metro area. According to the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative Point-in-Time Survey, there are nearly a thousand individuals statewide, a figure supplemented by municipal- and county-level counts. The actual number tends to be higher than official counts because surveys of the unhoused tend to undercount people living in vehicles. Vehicle dwellers are considered the ‘seen but unseen’ unhoused — very easy to miss. They are indistinguishable on a lot with many other cars or discretely parked in a neighborhood. Sheltering in vehicles is often the last stop for those who lose jobs and permanent housing. Cars tend to break down and are increasingly expensive to fix, register and insure. (Not so long ago, repair shop rates were $20 per hour.) Without intervention and support, many vehicle dwellers can spiral down into homelessness and end up on the streets. The Safe Parking Initiative is a volunteer organization that focuses on creating safe parking spaces for people living in their cars. They collaborate with faith-based organizations and have set up safe parking lots in Arvada, Broomfield, Longmont, and Boulder. They are working on lots in Denver and Adams County. Each small and dispersed site hosts fewer than 10 Vehicles. “What we want to see is that every community could do this if they’ve got people who are living in vehicles,” said Chelsey Baker-Hauck, co-founder of the Safe Parking Initiative. “They need to be connected to services and need a safe place to park.” Right now, the group is focusing on the 7 county Denver metro area and aiming for underutilized church parking lots. In Jefferson County, in addition to the safe parking lot in Arvada, there is one planned for Golden. Working in concert with community partners, the goal is not just to create a place for people who shelter in vehicles, but to wrap them around with essential support that includes sanitation, showers, help with keeping vehicles road-worthy, and keeping track of who’s coming and going — with a formal check-in process. They encourage the hosting groups to offer housing assistance, job training, healthcare access, and food. Breckenridge has led the way in Colorado. Their local overnight parking program offers a safe and supportive environment just at night for 10 residents living in their cars. It is an overnight parking lot with portable restrooms and snow plowing for both the working and non-working people who are unhoused. It began as a collaboration between Good Bridge Community and the Summit Colorado Interfaith Council with local county partners. First in the state, it has proven to be a successful working model. “We’ve heard about people in Montrose and Durango. So there really is need. I think wherever people are living there’s probably people experiencing homelessness,” said Baker-Hauck. “What we want to do is make this model available and provide technical support assistance to as many communities as possible. It is such a low-barrier service; it’s low cost for communities to do. It is easy to scale up or down.” She pointed out that it’s easy and effective in fitting in with community norms. The Safe Parking Initiative group can work with unique individual needs, enabling the community to do it for themselves. NIKI “They are not designed to live in, and they don’t last.” IMAGINE LIVING THE TRAVELING RV LIFE, and your partner dies unexpectedly. Do you carry on? Niki’s partner, Kenny, died in her arms a year ago. They had been traveling together for 10 years. “It’s a choice; we had to keep the scenery changing, otherwise he got bored.” She intends to resume a solo RV traveling life after a challenging year of grieving. She has been living at her mother-in-law’s ranch up in Park County while fixing up the RV. Confident about her own abilities, she intends to depend on their previous itinerant handyman skillset for travel — an ambitious project with her older RV. Niki is antsy; she and her dog are ready to hit the road. “Living in a vehicle is a choice because that means you go CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD anywhere, anytime.” She is ready. Possibly, she’ll head back to back to California, where she grew up. “At least the part that hasn’t burned,” She is anxious to meet her first grandchild. Alone now, she still hears the road call. 8 DENVER VOICE May 2021 COMMUNITY PROFILE JESSE She bought her current RV a year ago, and everything was supposed to work. It doesn’t. BURSTING WITH STORIES, Jesse laughs easily, “I have literally been robbed like five times here. I’ve had to replace all my clothes and jewelry, and all I have, all the beads and stuff. So, they steal the beads and whatever they can get their freaking hands on. They will take it if you turn your back.” Ah yes, life on the road. Friendly and engaging, Jesse talks a mile-a-minute, all the while doting on her two companionable little dogs. It’s cold in Colorado, and the shivering little dogs need jackets, she said. They all live in her RV, currently parked at the Rainbow Trout Campground just off Highway 285 in Jefferson County. It is one of the few winter RV campgrounds in the state. She migrates between the campground, which costs $600 a month, to the free dispersed camping out on Jefferson County’s vast National Forest and BLM lands — camping is free for 14 days at a time. Sometimes. she travels down to the Colorado state campgrounds, like Chatfield. But she finds the city often dangerous — more drugs, less safety. After 10 years as a Head Start teacher and a stint at Denver’s Purina Plant, she “snapped her foot pushing a thousand-pound cart;” no workers comp. At 54, after work injuries and debilitating migraines, Jesse is living on disability. Her last job as a West Colfax hotel manager didn’t last, she said. She was too kind. Then she was jailed after rescuing her mother-in-law from a nursing home, another story that comes with a bemused smile. CREDIT: PAULA BARD Jesse and her partner, Derrick, a commercial electrician who “knows how to do everything,” live in two uninsulated 1980’s RV’s that require endless repair and clever innovations. The roofs leak, the four batteries alternately go out, the generators break down, they run out of gas when the temperature plummets, leading to emergencies with no heat and no cooking. Jesse is insulating the walls, which, she says laughingly are just, “metal and wallpaper.” But it’s no joke when temperatures are below freezing. She bought her current RV a year ago, and everything was supposed to work. It doesn’t. And now it won’t pass emissions. After growing up in LA, she raised her five children in CREDIT: PAULA BARD Northern California. She stays in touch with all of them and tells everyone she hopes fervently for grandchildren. An ambitious cook, she treats everyone in her vicinity with generous home-cooked meals and sometimes, even pies. Capable and buoyant, she is at peace with her current life. BLAIR Aligning her activism with freedom of movement. BLAIR LIVES THE COMMITTED LIFE of an activist and online graphic designer, all from her car — as long as she can maintain internet access. With her souped-up jeep, she has lived the vehicle life for almost a year. Her Colorado activism began with a legislative research job and has moved on to support the Safe Parking Initiative, where she helps organize sanctioned parking spaces for fellow vehicle dwellers. She supports Denver’s unhoused with Allies to CREDIT: PAULA BARD Abolitionists. Currently, she is offering haircuts on Mutual Aid Mondays to those in Denver’s unhoused encampments. Originally from Alabama, she enjoyed summer church visits to Colorado and eventually migrated to the state. Now she has managed to align her activism with freedom of movement and huge doses of the outdoors, while avoiding Colorado’s prohibitive housing costs. With glorious views, she is currently nestled up on a jeep trail overlooking Idaho Springs. Her strong environmental leanings drive decisions; she has fashioned a sturdy rock fire-pit and cleaned up the area around her campsite. With creativity, Blair has fashioned a life that suits her. CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD Next, she heads to Arizona to help stave off international mining giant Resolution Copper’s exploitation of sacred Apache lands, called Oak Flat. She can hit the road in a flash. May 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CONTRIBUTOR DISPATCHES FROM VACCINATED STREET PAPER VENDORS: “NOBODY SHOULD GO WITHOUT THE SHOT” BY JILL SHAUGHNESSY EDITED FOR LENGTH AND CLARITY With Covid vaccines being rolled out differently across the world, that means marginalized and vulnerable communities in different parts of the world are receiving immunization at different rates. But it does mean some good news: street paper vendors are beginning to receive the jab, and with the world opening up again, that’s more than welcome. WITH PFIZER, ASTRAZENECA, MODERNA, JOHNSON AND JOHNSON, and more vaccines beginning to become available, countries are starting to vaccinate their populations, starting with the elderly. The rollout of the vaccine begins to provide a light at the end of a very dark tunnel that is the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the process to grab a vaccine appointment remains a mystery to many. Homeless populations are eligible for the shot in different parts of the world. The requirements differ globally, but a few street paper vendors have gotten their jab. In Nashville, Tennessee, soon-to-be expired doses are being sent to homeless shelters around the city. As of 5 April, 10 DENVER VOICE May 2021 Tennessee was in phase 3 of the vaccine distribution. That means all people considered homeless, regardless of age, are eligible to get the shot. Three vendors from The Contributor street paper in Nashville have already received their vaccine. In an interview, vendor Paul describes his experience getting the jab at Music City Center. He tells The Contributor that the entire process took about 30 minutes. In Paul’s experience, it took 15 minutes for the shot, and 15 minutes of observation time to ensure he didn’t have a bad reaction. He describes how he experienced no pain with the shot and was ready to grab a cup of coffee and get to work afterward. Paul encourages everyone to get the vaccine. “Nobody should go without the shot. Nobody. The more people get the shots, get vaccinated, the sooner the city can reopen to full capacity,” he said. Teresa is another vendor who received her vaccine in Nashville. She was originally turned away at the Walmart vaccination center because she didn’t have health insurance. To her relief, after an hour of waiting, she was able to get the shot anyway. Teresa had no real pain after, just a little discomfort in her arm. “It’s not as bad as you think it would be. Even the scaredy cats that are afraid of shots, it’s not that bad,” she said. Megaphone in Vancouver, Canada is also seeing some success with vaccine distribution for their sellers. “We have been fairly fortunate in Vancouver, B.C. There have been several vaccination clinics for marginalized people — including vendors — in the Downtown Eastside, which is home to mostly low-income residents and also a lot of people experiencing homelessness. In fact, the office building where Megaphone is located hosted a vaccine clinic (Friday 26 March) and many of our vendors signed up,” said Megaphone editor Paula Carlson. Peter Thompson, a vendor for Megaphone, received his vaccine at the Carnegie Community Center. He did not PAGE TITLE WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP FRANCES FORD THE FAMILY FOOT ITCH My grandmother wanted wheels to turn and bells to jingle each toss of the harness, brightness of many paints and arcane carvings to curve about the wagon boards, rolling hills and road dust and river roars, and streams of strangers vague or distinct as dreams can be. She dreamed of an omened life, unveiled in the crystal or the card by candlelight, lines that loop the open hand. She couldn’t touch PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CONTRIBUTOR that unguarded fate, but she always said she wished she were a gypsy. Kee-ack, kee-ack, kee-ack, kee-ack: as if the heart counts schedule an appointment ahead of time but rather walked into the vaccine center after hearing about it from the Megaphone office. “It is a feeling of relief as it brings me one step closer to seeing my family again. It has been so long since I have seen them... It takes a toll on a person — mostly the emotional stress,” he said in the March edition of Megaphone. After the shot, Thompson is feeling “fine, grateful, and relieved.” In the United Kingdom, seventy-year-old Gordon was the first Big Issue North vendor to get the shot. Gordon received the jab in January due to his lung condition and it provided a beacon of hope for him. “I know loads of people are still waiting to have the first injection so I’m very lucky,” said Gordon. In Hamburg, Germany, residents of emergency shelters will be vaccinated in the coming weeks, but the rollout remains slow. One vendor of the Hinz&Kunzt street paper has been vaccinated, however. “Elsa is older than 80 years and those people have the highest priority to be vaccinated here in Germany,” said Benjamin Laufer, an editor at Hinz&Kunzt. It appears more and more vendors will be getting the jab in the upcoming months. In the United States, President Biden plans to have 500 million total doses administered by August. Although the European Union missed its first vaccination goal, the world is closer to normalcy than it was a year ago. “It’s really important that people get it. Better to be safe than sorry,” said vaccinated vendor Gordon. “The quicker we can get out of this lockdown, the better. I’m sick of this lockdown. I’m bored of it. I just can’t wait to get back selling the magazine again.” Big Issue North and Big Issue (UK) vendors in England and Wales return to their pitches. ■ Courtesy of INSP.ngo May 2021 DENVER VOICE 11 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org far off whispers of a train on track. It travels at the speed of thought, snags at me, takes me along, and I, too, can dream. PEPPER-LEE A THANKLESS JOB So I think Im falling in love. In love with the fame, that accompanies this game. ...Just in love with the pain. A pre-meditated plan gone all awry. A well articulated genius Not at all privy to pry. Cannot tell a lie, Promises: meant to be broken. Trauma: Life’slove token, Of appreciation As well, A memory of life’s degradation. Why love me and not touch me? Hug me, and NEGATE our lovemaking, Just totally? Kiss me, And yet, ABANDON me? A stranger to these streetsssss, I’d by far much rather be, Rather I’ve harbored a tendency To share myself so intimately To a beloved stranger, All up in, and within my sheets! “Who pays you to think?” It’s what they consistently told me. Put yourself in my shoes, Catch yourself elatedly molding.

IN YOUR OWN WORDS Man! It is already known that we help a lot of rich people get richer, and people in power are fighting pay raises already. I wonder what we’re going to do when we reach the future. There are things that are here already like the selfcheckout lines at the grocery store. Cars that drive themselves will replace Uber drivers, truck drivers, and more. I don’t want to scare people. I just want to give people a heads up on what is coming our way. ■ A Hard Talk WITH SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR LANDO ALLEN. CREDIT: SARAH HARVEY TODAY! BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR I LOOK AT ALL THE PROBLEMS IN OUR COUNTRY, from Q-Anon, to people who are racist and say racist things, trying to put Americans against each other. People who are hungry on keeping power, and the people who get elected by us and don’t do anything to help us when we need them to give us a hand. Personally, I’m tired of the separation stuff they put us through, but once in a while, I hear something that keeps me up at night. Right now, [what keeps me up] is technology that can take people’s jobs. That’s the way of the future, and it got me scared. People are already struggling to get jobs, pay for housing and keep themselves from being homeless. WE HAVE TO TALK ABOUT MASS SHOOTINGS in the USA. It was very hard to know that where you shop, someone can walk into a store and kill people. When will the madness with guns stop - guns that should never be on our streets? How can we be safe to go about our everyday lives, Self? It could have been me, Self. How can all the shootings keep going on, and no party in government will do anything? Neither side can get it right for us. Why do we have to live in the madness we are put in? You overcame death so many times. Now, Self, you have to be on the lookout, for you may catch a bullet while you’re out shopping. How can that be? How can 20 babies in school get killed? Why can’t we stop making guns for war? Why do we allow people with mental problems to have guns, Self? Five days after [the shooting at the King Soopers in Boulder], I’m waiting for a friend at Collyer Park in Longmont and saw police surround a car at the same time my dog wanted to get out of my car. As I shut my car door, a cop ran and told me I was in the line of fire. He took me to safety, and 15 minutes later, it was over. I couldn’t believe just going to the park I could be in the line of fire. Thank God it came to a peaceful conclusion. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA Then, a few days after that, the Motel 6 in Thornton had a hostage situation for 14 hours. That is the same place my son and daughter happened to be staying. Thankfully, they were on their way back from work when it happened. They were told no one was allowed in or out until it was over. They couldn’t get to their dogs that were in their motel room until later in the night, with the police escorting them. Self, we can’t be so afraid to leave the house, but you must be careful about what and who is around you. Be right with your higher power. Always tell your loved ones how much you love them because you or they may never hear those words ever again. Just think if your last words were hateful. How do you think you or your loved ones would feel? So, Self, be careful. Watch around you and always tell loved ones how much you love them before it’s too late. ■ Subscribe online: NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! DENVERVOICE.ORG/SUBSCRIPTIONS 12 DENVER VOICE May 2021 Become a Denver VOICE subscriber and get the paper delivered directly to your mailbox every month. Both personal and business subscriptions are available. Your donation goes directly to support our program! EVENTS DENVER FILM: VIRTUAL CINEMA Choose from a wide variety of arthouse and festival hits, all from the comfort of your own home. A portion of the proceeds will support Denver Film, which operates Colorado’s only nonprofit movie theater, the Sie FilmCenter. WHEN: Ongoing COST: $13 MORE INFO: watch.eventive.org/denverfilm RICK GRIFFITH: NON-VIOLENCE & ACTIVISM Artist Rick Griffith is joined by Evan Weissman and Stephen Brackett to discuss nonviolence and activism in art and beyond, asking the questions: How do we continue to apply pressure to our government? What is the action that moves the needle? How do you take activism from the digital world and social media to the real world? WHEN: May 5, 5 p.m. COST: Pay what you can. MORE INFO: mcadenver.org/events FRIDAY NIGHT BAZAAR: RINO ART DISTRICT Drink, eat, and shop local at this festive community event. WHEN: May 7, 14, 21, and 28, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. COST: Free entry. WHERE & MORE INFO: 2424 Larimer St. | facebook.com/DenverBazaar SPRING ARTS AND POTTERY SALE Purchase one-of-a kind gifts and eye-catching essentials made by the students and teachers of Washington Heights Arts Center. Just in time for Mother’s Day! Masks are required. WHEN: May 8, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE & MORE INFO: Visitor Center at Heritage Lakewood, 801 S. Yarrow St. | lakewood.org DENVER REFLECTIVE STORYTELLING WORKSHOP The folks from StoryCenter, a non-profit that helps individuals find and tell stories from their lives, will create a supportive, online space where participants can gather as a community to share their own personal struggles, joys, and moments of resilience. WHEN: May 14, 12 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. COST: Free but registration is required. MORE INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming ACROSS 1. Muslim holy man 5. Eyebrow shape 9. “Th e Sun ___ Rises” 13. Star in Orion 15. Pacifi c palm 16. Shakespearean king 17. Insect stage 18. Ski lift 19. Aft er-bath powder 20. Sultan’s palace 22. Concept in Hinduism and Buddhism 24. Cobbler cousin 25. Flightless bird of New Zealand also known as a takahe 27. Writing a computer program 30. “Once ___ a time...” 31. Tiptop 32. Fall guy 37. Entangle or disentangle 39. Down with the fl u 40. Expresses exhaustion or boredom 41. Bones of the hand and foot 43. Actress Catherine ___-Jones 44. 18-wheeler 45. German songs 47. One with memory loss 51. Behave (like) 52. “I’m a little ___...” 53. Try out 58. Director Preminger 59. Bumpkin 61. Shelf 62. Must-have 63. Canal of song 64. Shouts 65. Gaelic 66. Cincinnati nine 67. Bakery selections DOWN 1. Colored eye part 2. Gesturer 3. Gelatin substitute 4. Unit of graphic resolution 5. Dead against 6. Genetic messenger usually abbreviated in crosswords (but not this time!) 7. Tax preparer, for short 8. Car roof style 9. Place to exchange vows 10. Discover 11. Game ragout 12. Killer whales 14. Use a username and password 21. Pants part 23. Snookums 26. Milky gems 27. Food fi sh 28. Brightly colored fi sh 29. Hindu deity 32. Greek letter 33. Geographical index 34. Was in debt 35. Add to the pot 36. Ivan the Terrible, e.g. 38. Cow catcher 42. Nor’s partner 45. Boy 46. With frostiness 47. Do penance 48. Poet’s concern 49. Hoopster Archibald and statistician Silver 50. Lyric poem 54. Hawaiian strings 55. One way to stand by 56. Lecher’s look 57. Bitter end? 60. Anger COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, who provides this list of ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 May 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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Jones Maggie Holben Elsbeth Williams Michael Vitco Gaspar Terrana Catherine Hegedus Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi James Stegman 3M Foundation 10X Business Consultants SEMOptim Laura Wing 14 DENVER VOICE May 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org May 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,400 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION The LONELINESS EPIDEMIC HARVARD RESEARCH DESCRIBES LONELINESS AS THE NEW EPIDEMIC SWEEPING THE COUNTR. COMMUNITY LIVING OFFERS A SOLUTION. PAGE 10 CITIES URGED TO LEARN FROM THE PANDEMIC LESSONS LEARNED DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC COULD BE HARNESSED TO IMPROVE CITY LIFE FOR YEARS TO COME. PAGE 5 BASIC NEEDS INSECURITY IN U.S. COLLEGES STUDENTS NEGLECTED BY THEIR INSTITUTIONS AND GOVERNMENT ARE COMBATING POVERTY WITH THE HELP OF NONPROFITS. PAGE 6 A STAR TOUCHES DOWN LIGHTLY IN DENVER A COLLABORATION OF GOVERNMENT, HEALTH CARE, AND NONPROFIT ENTITIES, STAR PROVIDES A UNIQUE MOBILE CRISIS RESPONSE. PAGE 8 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 APRIL 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 4 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) @DenverVOICE FROM YOUR VENDOR: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

IN CELEBRATION OF NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH GIVING TIME COSTS NOTHING AND BENEFITS EVERYONE NIKKI LAWSON BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR BEING A LIFELONG VOLUNTEER is one of my proudest accomplishments. My first experience volunteering was as a Girl Scout at the Denver Dumb Friends League. I was there for an afternoon filling food and water bowls, sweeping up animal hair, and taking out the trash. It was a day I will never forget. After college, I moved to China to serve two years in the Peace Corps. Rather than sweeping up hair, I taught English to eager young adults on the doorstep of the Gobi Desert. I came back to Denver with more volunteer experience than I ever thought possible. In 2017, when I found out I was expecting my first child, I was eager to get back to volunteering. After spending so much time abroad, it was time to find a cause in the community my daughter would call home. Choosing to volunteer with the Denver VOICE was easy. As a long-time reader of the paper, I knew the VOICE is an organization that not only creates an excellent paper, but it also offers an incredible opportunity to the person vending it. Being a distribution volunteer for the VOICE has become the most rewarding volunteer role I have ever held. Volunteering is far more than giving your time, experience, and resources. It is committing to an organization because you believe in its cause and want the organization to succeed. Volunteering is a simple and accessible way to help your community and become a catalyst for positive change. It is also one of the few things in life that costs nothing but offers everyone involved something in return. Whether it is halfway across the world or in your own backyard, volunteering makes the world a better place. ■ April CONTRIBUTORS DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ty Holter Kersten Jaeger Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. 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: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. John Alexander Lando Allen Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis David Gordon Nikki Lawson Benjamin Eric Nelson Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson Zephyr Wilkins 2 DENVER VOICE April 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: MARK AND JESSICA BY PAULA BARD MARK I’ve been homeless since I was 11 years old. When I wasn’t in prison, I had an apartment, and I lived with Jessica. I’m 43 now. I’ve been writing a book [about political scandals in Arapahoe County]. It’s almost finished. The police stole my bike. For this new bike, we found pieces of it behind a dumpster in Glendale. We put it together, and I can ride her in the front, a chariot! The dog has a home in the back. As we were getting ready to go live in the streets, I didn’t want Chico to have to feel the strain of it, so I made him the best seat in the house. I just felt like if we had a place to sit down and rest that things would just be better for us.” JESSICA I lost my place, I was renting a janitorial closet on Ogden with the plumbing, electricity, $450 a month. I’m 28. I can’t get an ID so I can’t get help for getting off heroin. My mom passed away 4 years ago, my grandpa died on the same day. My anxiety is just through the roof. I’ve never set foot in a shelter. I’d go hungry first. ■ OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. “I’VE NEVER SET FOOT IN A SHELTER. I’D GO HUNGRY FIRST.” CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. April 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

Ask a VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Do you plan to get a COVID vaccine? If so, once you are vaccinated, will you feel safer vending the VOICE? Q A DAVID GORDON I plan to get the vaccine for COVID. I will feel safer however, what would ultimately make me feel even safer would be if vaccines distribution increases while the number of cases goes down. I will still protect myself and others until the numbers dictate so. I will feel safer... JOHN ALEXANDER Yes. I have been blessed with victory because I had the COVID virus. I was in the hospital for a little over two months. I was in the hospital for COVID blood clots, and a double stroke – all related to the virus. During the first two weeks, I was on my death bed, and my family was making funeral arrangements. I have learned firsthand that the diagnosis of COVID is not an automatic death sentence, but I do have familiarities with this disease, and I will feel very much safer vending the Denver VOICE once I do get my vaccinations. RAELENE JOHNSON Yes, I will feel safer! I have COPD, and this last year was very hard on me! I felt safer not working than to end up dead! I am thankful the end is in sight. I know the vendors will see more people out and about. Thank you, Everyone, who worked to make and distribute the vaccinations! JERRY ROSEN Yes, I plan to get a vaccine, as I was told it was very safe. Yes, I will feel safer, as I know it will be effective in many ways. Vendors interested in receiving the vaccination can speak to Program Coordinator Anthony Cornejo. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. INSIDE THE RESTROOM. PHOTO COURTESY OF DENVER’S DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE 4 DENVER VOICE April 2021 RESTROOM LOWERED INTO FOUNDATION. PHOTO COURTESY OF DENVER’S DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE RENDERING OF FINISHED AREA. PHOTO COURTESY OF DENVER’S DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE The new restrooms come five years after the City initially DENVER TO OPEN PUBLIC RESTROOMS DOWNTOWN BY ROBERT DAVIS DENVER’S DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE (DOTI) announced Wednesday the City will open public restrooms downtown near Champa Street. and the 16th Street Mall. The freestanding unit includes one standard restroom and one American with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant room. DOTI said it anticipates the facilities opening in the spring after the utility connections and other site work details are complete. It measures approximately 18 feet by 7.5 feet and is installed in what was previously a parking lane along Champa St. “I’m proud to have worked with city agencies to launch the creative, mobile restroom program that expanded access to sanitation for those who are away from home or living without one in Central Denver,” At-large Councilwoman Robin Kniech said in a statement. “I look forward to building upon this success to ensure our infrastructure matches the vibrancy and needs of our city,” she added. piloted a public restroom program. In 2016, the city parked mobile restrooms on Clarkson Street in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood and along East Colfax for 50 days to gather data about the need. Each unit was in operation for 12 hours per day. In 2018, the City released its final report about the pilot, which described the data it collected as “compelling” evidence to continue the program. It found that some locations would see as many as 200 users per day. One-third of the users were people experiencing homelessness. LOCAL NEWS NATIONAL STORY DOTI said the program is designed to offer “convenient, clean, and safe facilities for the whole community.” Amenities include a full-time attendant, security cameras, waste and recycling stations, and a micro-mobility station for users to park their bicycles. “Providing residents and visitors with access to a comfortable, clean restroom meets a basic and universal human need and we’re proud to deliver this facility to the people of Denver,” said Mayor Michael B. Hancock. “By making restroom facilities more accessible to all, we increase people’s ability to get out and enjoy our downtown area with confidence and improve quality of life and the way our city looks and functions,” he continued. ■ TURNING POINT: CITIES URGED TO ACT ON LESSONS LEARNED IN PANDEMIC BY CAREY L. BIRON From Chicago to Mumbai, the public health crisis created by the coronavirus could be a chance to tackle long-standing problems in major cities – from social inequality to infectious diseases. FROM BETTER HYGIENE to greater awareness of inequality and recognition of ‘essential workers’, lessons learned during the coronavirus pandemic could be harnessed to improve city life for years to come. The health crisis has gutted urban economies, emptied offices and public transport, and shuttered communal spaces, but it might mark a watershed as cities seek to get back on their feet, the annual CityLab global summit heard. “One of the big headlines coming out of the pandemic is that the things we thought were impossible before are actually possible and really absolutely necessary,” Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot told the three-day event, this year held virtually. COVID-19 has laid bare “a lot of the economic fault lines around race, around class, gender and inequalities that people believed were intractable – too big to actually solve,” Lightfoot said. In the United States, the pandemic’s economic effects have taken a far heavier toll on Black and Hispanic families, while federal data from December showed women have been disproportionately affected by job losses. “The crises we face have made clear the inequity and injustice that persist,” U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris told the event. “We want our cities and countries to thrive, not just survive.” There are hopeful signs, several participants said. The pandemic creates an opening to tackle issues exposed over the past year, such as the financial struggles of low-paid workers and their lack of social protection, said Ai-jen Poo, executive director of the National Domestic Workers Alliance. “Now we all see that some of the work that was least visible to us is actually essential – to our safety, health, and our well-being,” Poo said. She noted advances made amid the pandemic for domestic workers, most of whom are women and from minorities, including a new “bill of rights” in Philadelphia and a push in Chicago to ensure fair wages, time off, and safe workplaces. Such opportunities are not limited to rich countries, said Reuben Abraham, chief executive of the IDFC Foundation and IDFC Institute in Mumbai, suggesting the pandemic could be a “turning point” for cities in the developing world. “Is there a way for us to embed the good behaviors that we’ve learned during COVID?” he said, noting the possibility of addressing “crowding” in cities through land use management, zoning, and the provision of affordable housing. Diseases such as cholera and typhoid have dropped substantially in Mumbai due to COVID-related hygiene practices such as hand-washing, Abraham said, while the wearing of face masks has had a significant effect on tuberculosis. “[The pandemic] has been a disaster for all of us,” he said. “But if we do the right thing now, net-net we end up with a positive outcome.” ■ Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / INSP.ngo NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Bottled water, non-perishable snacks Hand-warmers, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Refurbished laptops or desktop computers Backpacks Gloves Heavy jackets (Men’s L, XL, XXL; Women’s M, L, XL) Spring WISH LIST PEDESTRIANS WALK PAST A STORE WITH GUIDELINES FOR SOCIAL DISTANCE AND FACE MASKS AS THE GLOBAL OUTBREAK OF THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) CONTINUES, IN NEW YORK CITY, U.S., NOVEMBER 14, 2020. REUTERS/CAITLIN OCHS DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. April 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

NATIONAL STORY PHOTO BY NATHAN DUMLAO ON UNSPLASH THE KNIGHTS FOR NUTRITION PANTRY RECEIVES ITS DONATIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY. PHOTO COURTESY OF INSP.NGO U.S. COLLEGE STUDENTS BATTLE BASIC NEEDS INSECURITY BY JILL SHAUGHNESSY Three in five college students in the United States faced problems like housing insecurity or hunger in 2020. Despite their effort to receive a higher education, many students are neglected by their institutions and the government in terms of basic needs. Strides are being made across the U.S. by students and nonprofits to combat these issues. THE STORY OF THE “STRUGGLING COLLEGE STUDENT” is perpetuated in the United States. It may bring to mind the idea of subsisting on a diet of Ramen noodles or couch surfing for a semester. The example of a hungry, poor college student has been made out to be a common rite of passage. It’s considered almost normal to “struggle” during those crazy, college years. A demographic often overlooked in terms of hunger and homelessness is college-aged citizens and those enrolled in college. In some cases, these problems arise because parent support stops when entering college, while others have experienced hunger or housing insecurity prior. Some college students may find themselves financially unprepared to meet their basic needs after paying for tuition. Beyond that, universities are often ill-equipped to help these students. The COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened this. In 2020, when many schools were forced to hold only virtual classes, some students had to scramble for accommodation. While many students find themselves back with their parents, others just don’t have the option. Those who used to rely on university meal plans may no longer have this accessible food resource. The Hope Center is a nonprofit aiming to assist colleges and universities with research and resources about food and housing insecurity. Their study surveying over 38,000 college students found 3 in 5 students were experiencing basic needs insecurity. Food insecurity affected 44% of students at two-year colleges and 38% at four-year institutions. 15% of the students surveyed who attended 4-year colleges were experiencing homelessness due to the pandemic. Maya is a 21-year-old college student who currently attends Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. Maya struggled with food insecurity before going to college. As a high school student, she relied on her mother’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly referred to as food stamps, to supplement her family. When she entered university, she was no longer receiving any government benefits nor financial support from her mother. Maya was used to working 40 hours a week to help support herself, her sisters, and her mother. Once entering college, this all changed. “I think a lot of people think college at a four-year university is a luxury, but it shouldn’t be,” she says. “When I was living with my mom, she couldn’t really help me, I was helping her. Since parents can’t always step in, the government should be the helping hand because we are just starting off on our own”. Maya recalls a time when she was not able to make ends meet for the semester. She was denied a loan and couldn’t figure out how to continue to take all of her classes and pay for groceries. She sat down with her roommates and they looked at her budget. She had bills to pay and was unable to manage everything. Her roommates offered to pay for her food for the term. “They had the resources, and they were kind enough to help. But I just don’t want to rely on anybody else. It’s not their responsibility to take care of me,” she says emotionally. Existing challenges have been only compounded by the pandemic in the past year. For example, Maya received the stimulus check from the United States government which helped her during the pandemic, but other students were excluded from this relief bill. The first 2 rounds of stimulus checks did not grant college-aged dependents the benefits. The term ‘dependent’ refers to an adult that is still claimed on their parent’s taxes. It is often not the choice of the student. The government ignored dependents; despite the fact the group was hit hard by the pandemic. With dining halls shut down and student housing paused, the stimulus check would have gone far for many students. Many schools have been trying to fix these problems and make sure their students can meet their basic needs. At Arcadia University in Glenside, Pennsylvania, this meant allowing housing-insecure students to continue living on campus while the majority of the school was shut down. In addition, they are helping students by offering a free food service, called Knight’s for Nutrition Food Pantry, to supplement their food needs. The Knight Pantry was to combat the obstacle of college hunger. There are no started before the pandemic 6 DENVER VOICE April 2021 NATIONAL STORY restrictions on who can get food or what items can be taken. They have a “no questions asked policy” for the students. The pantry is managed by the housing office but almost completely student-run. Tyanna Taylor operates the pantry three days a week. “I will say there has been a high demand for the pantry. We are trying to do our best to destigmatize its use. We want everyone to feel comfortable coming to get the things you need for free because you have the right to feed yourself,” she says. The pantry has things like feminine hygiene products, laundry detergent, and deodorant, as well. There is an option for groceries to be delivered at no cost right to the student’s doors through a larger local pantry, if needed. These services go a long way for the food insecure. Taylor says keeping up with studies at a university is a full-time job. She believes college students should not have to worry about feeding themselves, especially in a pandemic. Taylor says: “We are trying to make it known that it is not just a food pantry, but a resource pantry. We want to be able to educate students, like how you can apply for food stamps. We want to be that bridge for students.” There are other efforts being made across the country to tackle college hunger. Swipe Out Hunger is a national nonprofit based in California. They were founded in 2010 to help college students and universities design anti-hunger programs. Tenille Metti Bowling is the communications director for Swipe Out Hunger. She describes one of their more popular resources, the Swipe Drive, as a project that “allows students from different colleges to use their leftover meal swipes for their peers on campus who are facing food insecurity.” In most colleges in the U.S., meal plans work on a swipe system where students have a certain number of swipes or points that can be exchanged for access to a dining hall or a meal. The students who have extra, unused “swipes” are able to give them to students who are food insecure at no charge. The eligibility for this resource varies between the 130 campuses affiliated with Swipe Out Hunger. Swipe Out Hunger believes in “the lowest barrier to access” for college students. They work directly with different universities to allow students to receive the help they need with projects like the Swipe Drive. The nonprofit is determined to destigmatize college hunger by allowing students to be at the forefront of the cause. “We know no matter who you are or where you come from, food insecurity really can affect you. It’s a spectrum. I know I was most struck to hear some of our students who started programs at their universities did so because some of their friends who are athletes, who are representing their school, were hungry. I think hunger is right in front of us, but we haven’t really been able to identify it as such because of the stigma associated with food insecurity,” says Metti Bowling. She discusses how different programs have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some schools are partnering with Grubhub to allow students access to discounted, delivered food despite closed dining halls and programs. Furthermore, the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice was founded in 2013 and is currently located at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Part of their initiative is #RealCollege, that is “redefining what it means to be a student-ready college.” The Hope Center and #RealCollege understand basic needs like food and a safe place to stay are needed for learning and that “students are human first.” In addition to research, The Hope Center is dedicated to informing students about the resources available to them. From food pantries to programs like the Swipe Drive, the Hope Center compiles the different types of support on their website. Dr. Jennifer King, a practitioner-researcher at the Hope Center, notes that the issue of basic needs insecurity existed prior, but the coronavirus pandemic has further exposed the situation. “We encourage all thinkers and doers in higher education to view the Hungry to Learn documentary, which features the lives of #RealCollege students navigating their academic journey while managing a host of vulnerabilities that were practically nonexistent 20 years ago,” she says. The documentary, presented by Soledad O’Brien, shows what college hunger is like for four unique students. Within the Hope Center, the Policy and Advocacy staff follow legislation regarding this issue and systematic change on both the federal and state levels. Dr. King says: “Number one is the research. We want research to be actionable through engagement and communication with colleges, universities, and students, as well, about what’s going on, and what can be done. That communication then extends itself to state and federal legislation to ensure these are not just institutional changes, but there is systemic change, for college students to thrive, while they’re completing their degree.” In January of 2021, President Joe Biden announced his $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan which includes hopeful policy for college students facing basic needs insecurity. As of early March 2021, the plan has been approved by the Senate and awaits a final vote in the House of Representatives before receiving the President’s signature. The bill aims to extend the third stimulus legislation to include adult dependents. This would mean eligible college students would receive the $1,400 stimulus check. In addition, part of this plan allowed qualifying college students the option to receive food stamps after being excluded previously. Although these efforts are slowly coming along, many students will be able to benefit from the food stamps. It is important to mention: this is temporary SNAP eligibility due to the pandemic. A statement by the Hope Center reads: “We hope the administration will build on this stimulus plan, and codify many of the opportunities and expanded support that are set to disappear when COVID-19 is finally eradicated.” Permanent actions will still need to be examined and established in the future. With the help from resources like the Hope Center, Swipe Out Hunger, and more, progress can be made. “As students, we are just getting our feet in the door. In college, you still have to perform like everyone else, even if you’re struggling. Being expected to pay my bills, earn enough to feed myself, and attend college full time is a lot to handle alone,” says Maya. In the U.S., a college education is not a given. Many students cannot afford to attend university at all. But for those trying to get a higher education, their basic needs should not be neglected. After all, college is more than “living on Ramen.” ■ Courtesy of INSP.ngo THE STUDENTS HAVE THE OPTIONS TO PICK UP PRE-STOCKED BAGS OF GROCERIES. PHOTO COURTESY OF INSP.NGO BOARD MEMBERS WANTED! The Denver VOICE is looking for volunteer board members to help lead and strengthen our programs to provide economic empowerment and education tools to those experiencing homelessness or poverty in our community. If you are looking for a meaningful way to participate in advocating on behalf of those we serve, email your resume or CV to president@denvervoice.org Ideal candidates will have nonprofi t development and or fundraising experience and have a passion for making a difference in traditionally marginalized communities. April 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE A STAR TOUCHES DOWN LIGHTLY IN DENVER BY PAULA BARD Prior to STAR, the Denver 911 system, with its one million calls for service in the City and County of Denver, routed calls to either the criminal justice system or the health/hospital system. STAR now offers a third path to the de-escalation of crises and can provide an entry into services that may be available for people in crises. Carefully directed calls now go to STAR and its social workers and paramedics instead of an emergency department visit or law enforcement. For the city, this third path also increases efficiency. It offers costsaving while allowing traditional police, fire, and emergency medical services to be directed toward calls requiring their training and experience. Carleigh Sailon and Chris Richardson, the two clinical social workers who ride with the van, offer blankets, water, food, warmth, rides to safety, and a healthy dose of kindness. Sailon and Richardson have solid backgrounds in accessing resources for folks in crises and de-escalating public health emergencies. They see the STAR van as a perfect resource for Denver, as does Lateef Hodge, the Montbello paramedic who rides with STAR. The STAR van can be assigned to a call for service in three ways: 1. 911 call takers flag incoming calls and directly dispatch STAR. This accounted for 313 calls or 41.8% of the call load. 2. Police requests STAR to respond on-scene. This accounted for 260 calls or 34.8% of the call load. 3. STAR initiates a response in the field. This accounted for 175 or 23.4% of the call load. CREDIT: PAULA BARD 911 CALLS “Someone called 911 because the woman was sitting on a curb, crying and drinking a beer,” recalled Carleigh Sailon, a social worker with the STAR program. “They were concerned about her well-being and wanted to see if they could get her some help. STAR was dispatched, and I approached her, it was the middle of July. It was really hot. “She was sitting there, and we said, ‘We’re here to help you today. What’s going on?’ She basically just said that she’d gotten stranded in that part of town that she wasn’t familiar with and didn’t have any way to get anywhere else. No transportation and no fare for the bus, and it was really hot. She didn’t have any water. It was a retail area. She was just having a bad day. But she was crying, you know, and they were concerned about her, so they called 911. We carry water and snacks on the STAR van. So, I offered her some of that pretty quickly because of the heat. Asked her where she was trying to go, you know. We told her, ‘We’d be happy to give you a ride,’ and she said, ‘You know, I’d really just like to get somewhere inside, and, you know, sleep inside tonight.’ “I said ‘We’d be happy to give you a ride where you’d like to go?’ And she was really kind of pleasantly surprised that we were able to transport her. And we were happy to do that. “She was able to seek shelter and get some air conditioning and, you know, access to food and all those things at the shelter. And she was really grateful and gave us really positive feedback that felt really supportive. She couldn’t believe that people in a van would just kind of roll up and give her water and give her a ride!” HOW DID WE GET HERE? STAR, or the Support Team Assisted Response, was up and running by June 2020. This innovative program was launching about the same time that Denver’s streets were exploding with police brutality protests, and the program provides one remedy which could help to reduce conflict. The two-person STAR team consists of an experienced social worker and a paramedic who drive around in a nondescript blue and white van. STAR is called on for nonviolent public health crises when there are no weapons. Much of their interface with the community revolves around Denver’s unhoused community, amounting to a huge 68% of their calls. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., five days a week, they patrol the central business district and along the South Broadway corridor. Many of the issues they are called to address involve trespassing. In its first six-month pilot program, the STAR van responded to 748 calls for service. During the same period in the Denver Police Department, District 6 responded to 92,482 incidents. STAR was able to respond to 2.8% of the overall call load. STAR is made possible through collaboration between the Caring for Denver Foundation, Denver Police Department, Mental Health Center of Denver (MHCD), Denver Health Paramedic Division, Denver 911, and community support and resources. It provides mobile crisis response to community members experiencing mental health problems, poverty, homelessness, or trespassing. These public health issues are not often easily or appropriately addressed and are often exacerbated, in fact, by a police presence. 8 DENVER VOICE April 2021 DENVER POLICE PERSPECTIVE Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen, one of STAR’s founders, is now a strong advocate. STAR has been at least three years in the making. “My involvement in this goes back to a lunch at a restaurant in north Denver, where four of us sat down and asked if there could be an alternative response to the 911 calls that did not involve violence or weapons,” Pazen explains. The group began exploring organizations like Cahoots in Eugene, Ore., which had an innovative track record of 31 years of providing a nonpolice response for crises involving mental illness, homelessness, and addiction. “We did a lot of research on this, and then we shared that,” says Pazen. “We learned with other stakeholders, including Denver Homeless Out Loud and Denver Justice Project, folks from our 911 call center, and Caring Denver. We had numerous conversations with the folks from up there and the police chief.” The group sent a team up to learn about their program first-hand, and they came back very impressed and ready to implement it in Denver. “We want better outcomes for individuals that are in crisis,” says Pazen. “We believe that STAR is a critical component when people are in crisis or in need, where there’s not a weapon or where the individual is not demonstrating violence.” The 911 Call Center uses a decision tree; asking multiple questions to determine which calls go to the police and which would instead be a low-level, nonviolent crisis and appropriate for the STAR van. Often, the police determine that a call does not require police presence, and they call the STAR van themselves. Pazen believes that STAR’s impact on the unsheltered community is overwhelmingly positive. “And for the police,” Pazen says, “we see the value in having a medical professional COMMUNITY PROFILE and a mental health clinician address individuals who are in crisis. They can get us better outcomes. I can tell you that our officers all say, ‘Hey, this is great! It frees up police officers to focus on crime issues, property crime and violent crime, and traffic safety.’” According to Pazen, the mayor is committed and has essentially put $3 million going forward into expanding the project. This will bring more vans, a larger coverage area, and extended hours. The city would like to see the program expanded to additional police districts. Pazen calls the program’s success a “win-win for the people that we are serving, which is most important, right?” STREET PERSPECTIVE Denver still wrestles with grief around the trauma and heartbreak caused by some of the community’s high-profile deaths at the hands of the Denver Police over the last 25 years. If these deaths could have been avoided by a STAR team with a lighter touch, then names like Michael Marshall, Paul Castaway, Paul Childs, Marvin Booker, Jessica Hernandez, and Aurora’s Elijah McClain might not be seared into the DNA of the city, still painfully echoing years after the deaths. Cities may never truly grieve or accept the loss of life at the hands of their own police. “STAR IS DEFINITELY AN IMPROVEMENT, YOU KNOW, FROM LIKE SENDING BADGES AND GUNS IN TO TELL PEOPLE TO CALM DOWN.” — THERESE HOWARD Therese Howard of of Denver Homeless Out Loud (DHOL) was involved with the inception of STAR. She has watched the police presence and accompanying trauma and criminalization inflicted on the unhoused for many years. But she does not see the STAR van as a strong presence yet out on the street. “I don’t know that people on the streets even know who they are or what they are,” said Howard. “It’s not like a presence that people are that aware of. I mean, there’s only one unit.” Howard thinks the social workers, Sailon and Richardson, are good at de-escalating crisis situations. “Carleigh and Chris, I’ve spoken to both of them. They’re great. I personally really like them both a lot. They’re both really good at connecting people and resources.” Howard also thinks it is better than the previous heavy-handed police involvement in the unsheltered communities. “STAR is definitely an improvement, you know, from like sending badges and guns in to tell people to calm down. Yeah, that is not necessary. So, it has actually cut down on trauma. STAR is able to be part of an official presence but to do it in a more humane way. They are able to de-escalate.” But for Howard, “a huge amount of their time and energy is being spent nicely telling homeless folks to stay off private property. Having nice people to tell them to move is of course better, but, ultimately, the issue is that they don’t have anywhere to be. It’s not wrong that they have mental illness or whatever. The issue is housing.” Howard supports the project. She also feels that it is heavily tilted toward police influence and needs more community direction. Howard says, “It’s like it’s one of those situations where we have agreement on enough of a front. There is a lot that we like. But moving forward, there definitely needs to be a lot of work to keep the city from just turning it into another basically nicer police department.” “WE USE OUR POLICE IN OUR CITY TO CRIMINALIZE UNHOUSED PEOPLE.” — VINNIE CERVANTES Vinnie Cervantes recounts that Denver Alliance for Street Health Response (DASHR) was one of the program’s main drivers. “In 2017, members of the community created DASHR specifically to bring a nonpolice response to street crises in Denver, which eventually became STAR. It’s been a good proof-of-concept that we can do something different and that it could be a more effective, humane approach to issues like homelessness, substance abuse, and health crisis.” Cervantes has been involved for many years in criminal justice reform efforts, “And, you know, we were pretty successful in those efforts, but from my end, I really wanted to do something that more closely aligned with my values.” This brought him to help implement STAR. Now he is focused on creating alternatives to police, in general, getting away from using the criminal justice system to solve social conflict. “The calls STAR receives are overwhelmingly around trespassing,” Cervantes says. “I knew that that would be a big component of this program. We use our police in our city to criminalize unhoused people, and it hasn’t had the really deep impact that I wanted it to with the homeless so far. I think as the program continues to build and to expand, becoming more effective, it will continue to become ingrained into the communities around Denver that need this kind of support.” Cervantes says DASHR has talked to about 10 different cities around Colorado about this kind of nonpolice intervention to address public safety crises. According to Cervantes, Aurora will be rolling out their version very soon. “I think it’s in a really interesting stage right now because the pilot program still is under the Police Department,” says Cervantes. “That’s where it started. But it’s already been expanded. So, the program and its expanded model actually live with the Denver Department of Health and Environment. It’s not gonna be with the Police Department, won’t even be in the Department of Safety, but still kind of a Department of Safety umbrella. So, I think that there is kind of a fear that it lives with the police too closely, right now.” He projects that it will be healthier when it moves further away from the Police Department, becoming more accountable and community-driven. STAR LIGHTS A NEW DIRECTION FOR OUR COMMUNITY Many 911 calls reflect not violent emergencies but cultural, economic, racial misunderstandings and conflict. Police are ill-equipped to deal with many of these nonviolent emergencies. For Denver, the STAR van is pointing in a new and hopeful direction for our community. It provides part of a possible answer to the protests against police brutality that exploded last summer in Denver. It definitely lowers the heat on unhoused communities. ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD April 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY the second-highest group with 51% of respondents. Overall, 43% of Americans reported feeling increasingly lonely. And increased loneliness and isolation come with serious health costs. According to the study, loneliness is linked to “early mortality and a wide array of serious physical and emotional problems, including depression, anxiety, heart disease, substance abuse, and domestic abuse.” Brogan admitted she’s been feeling irritable lately, which she knows to be a sign of her depression. She began battling depression more than 20 years ago, before her first stint in homelessness. She’s seeing a therapist now and is fostering kittens to help abate the loneliness. However, Brogan also developed an infection in her GI tract because of the stress and anxiety she’s felt since midMarch of last year. Over the summer, her condition was so bad that she only ate bowls of chicken stock and white rice. Some therapists say that this loneliness can also manifest in misdirected anger, from sharp tones in casual conversation to episodes of outright rage online. In an interview with Vice News, Therapist Ashley McHan reported that she’s noticed an increasing number of incidences of misdirected anger among her patients. According to McHan, “Over time, we get fatigued. If there hasn’t been change happening around us or there hasn’t been improvement of situations, our ability to tolerate them is going to decrease...our ability to cope might eventually piddle out.” Andrea Bonior, a therapist and author of the upcoming book “Detox Your Thoughts” shared similar insight. “We are, right now, just chronically living under threat; even the smallest decisions that normally we would take for granted now feel very threatening,” she told VICE News. ROCHELLE BROGAN SITS IN HER APARTMENT BENEATH A PAINTING MADE FOR HER BY JOSE ACEVES, WHO PAINTED MURALS AS PART OF THE WORKS PROGRESS ADMINISTRATION. BROGAN, LIKE MANY, HAS FELT GREATER ISOLATION AND LONELINESS DUE TO THE PANDEMIC. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN “We’re also just more irritable because most of us are in situations where we’re stifled, we maybe feel trapped, and we’re not able to actually do what we want to do.” COMMUNITY LIVING OFFERS SOLUTION TO LONELINESS EPIDEMIC BY GILES CLASEN AND ROBERT DAVIS ROCHELLE BROGAN, 60, still talks about the hug she shared with her son last October. “That hug was great. It was the best; my kids give good hugs,” she told the Denver VOICE. She said she could feel the weight of the pandemic lift off her chest as she held him tight. Prior to that day, Brogan struggled to cope with the social isolation caused by the pandemic. As a self-proclaimed extreme extrovert, she clamored for her former life—one filled with people: hugs, handshakes, and all. Before the pandemic hit, Brogan worked as a peer resource navigator at Denver Rescue Mission. In her role, she helped 10 DENVER VOICE April 2021 people find resources to escape homelessness or get substance abuse treatment. She also worked shifts at the Denver Public Library until her physical health began to decline. Brogan was also active in her church and volunteered with the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative, a campaign to allow people experiencing homelessness in Denver to sleep in a legally parked car that they own. As she held her son, Brogan thought about how she had not seen either of her children in over six months. Her daughter was pregnant with Brogan’s first grandchild, and to be safe and maintain social distancing, Brogan did not go near them. She always wanted to be a part of her daughter’s pregnancy journey, from rubbing her feet when they hurt to watching her grow into her new role as a mother. To Brogan, these are more would-be memories that COVID-19 prevented from becoming reality. “My energy and life are enhanced by interacting with people. I wasn’t getting my energy and stimulation,” Brogan said. “I couldn’t see my kids and it was killing me. I couldn’t see my granddaughter and it was killing me.” It would be another three months before the family could reunite. THE LONELINESS EPIDEMIC Recent research by the Harvard Graduate School of Education describes feelings of loneliness as a new epidemic sweeping the country. The study found that 36% of Americans, like Brogan, are experiencing “serious loneliness.” This condition is defined by researchers as being isolated “frequently, almost all the time, or all the time.” This epidemic is primarily impacting young people aged 16 to 25 years old. Sixty percent of respondents in this age group reported feeling increasingly isolated. Mothers were COMMUNITY LIVING, COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS Social isolation and loneliness are causes for significant concern, especially in regard to persons from vulnerable and marginalized groups who are at risk of experiencing homelessness. However, some alternative housing advocates in Denver say a solution to the city’s ailments is right underneath its nose: community living. The term “community living” often refers to three types of living arrangements—collectives, cooperatives, and co-housing properties. There are several types of each living arrangement, but some of the most common are rental collectives, market-rate cooperatives, and nonprofit cooperatives. Rental collectives can be operated in single-family homes, apartments, townhomes, or condos. Oftentimes the building is owned by an offsite landlord. Roommates often vote on cable and internet packages or rules regarding food storage and common space usage. For example, an individual who purchases a share of a group equity cooperative is required to return an agreedupon percentage of their share’s equity to the cooperative once the share is sold. This arrangement helps ensure the cooperative stays affordable for future members. Market-rate cooperatives allow residents to purchase a share of the corporation that owns the building. An example of this is the Holly Street Townhomes, a potential project developed by the Co-Own Company in Hilltop that will bring 24 affordable units to the neighborhood. Nonprofit cooperatives offer subsidized affordable housing to people earning between 30% and 60% of an area’s median income. The building is owned and operated by the nonprofit organization to ensure affordability. These arrangements sometimes come with “group equity” arrangements, which prohibit property owners from draining a property’s equity after selling it. PAGE TITLE WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP BENJAMIN ERIC NELSON PRAISING THE NIGHT’S SILENT DRUM Discipline Walking down dark road I see White ghost of sin Boiling remedy ROCHELLE BROGAN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Oppressed by dreams Left to become Tearing apart at the seams Choice of one There are no nonprofit cooperatives in Denver, but there are several collectives and co-housing properties. One of the most well-known is the Queen City Collaborative at 901 Clarkson St. in Capitol Hill. During a recent co-buying class hosted by LivWork Denver, Laura Cowperthwaite, who owns another co-housing arrangement known as Casa Gala, said she decided to invest in community housing because she didn’t want to couch surf after retiring. “Rather than handing down my homes to my children, I’m going to create housing for my community,” she said. As home values continue their meteoric rise across Denver, housing is becoming increasingly out of reach for many potential homebuyers. This is leading many to seek to split the costs with others, even total strangers, Cowperthwaite added. Economists at the World Economic Forum (WEF) expect co-living arrangements to become increasingly popular as COVID-19 upended the traditional office culture. Additionally, urban properties remain in high demand for younger homebuyers. WEF estimates up to 70% of people will live in cities by 2050. As a result, cities across the globe will need to find a way to adapt to an increase of tenants working from home. Community living provides both an environmentally and urban-friendly solution. Cowperthwaite said Denver’s housing market is already seeing increased demand for alternative living styles. According to the Colorado Association of Realtors, the average home price in Denver is now over $600,000, while the U.S. Census reports that the median household income from 2015 to 2019 was $68,592.00. “Now that COVID-19 happened, we’re seeing a lot more demand for live-work spaces because of the shift in work environments,” she added. “And, it’s shown no signs of slowing down.” ■ April 2021 DENVER VOICE 11 Fetter to this world... Hurting Wraith transcends fate Direction to being I elate That curse undone Praising the night’s silent drum 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org

IN YOUR OWN WORDS Life’s Got to Get BETTER TODAY! BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR I THOUGHT MY LIFE WOULD BETTER. I made things work for me when it came to the papers I sell. I bought a camper. I’m also trying to get a truck and get my business to jump off. I was doing well until the pandemic got here. I found myself putting a lot of money to the camper just to keep it running. It scares me that the City isn’t nice to people that own [the campers]. So, when the pandemic hit Denver, they told us to stay home and stay safe, and the camper was the safest way to do that. But my camper wouldn’t work sometimes, and it didn’t feel like home. So, I had to do a lot of work to it. I already made up my mind to do what it takes to keep it clean and make it a good home because I got it for a good price, and if I wanted a better one, it would cost too much. So, I had it parked in a good place by the Crossroads Shelter, where I kept it for 9 months. Then, people with tents set up camp over there. That’s when it changed. You had people doing drugs. You also had gangs over there, people who would steal cars then leave them there. LANDO ALLEN. CREDIT: SARAH HARVEY One day, a guy got killed there where I parked my camper, and the City made us move. That’s when the nightmare began. I got to the spot where they let me park my camper; about 2 weeks later, my car broke down, and at the same time, my camper got towed away. We called the police every day to see if they would could release [my camper] and pay for the towing because the policeman didn’t leave me any warning that he was going to tow my camper. I was shocked that they left me with a broken-down car in the freezing cold. A friend had to talk me into getting my camper back, so the next day, I walked to the office and talked to the lady [at the front desk] of the impound lot. We talked about getting my camper out. I told her I had the money and insurance for it. She said “Why didn’t you have a tag?” I told her that it is the pandemic and it was hard to get down to Colorado Springs [where I bought my camper] to get my tags. She said that she didn’t care and told me that “cops own the city.” I got so mad that I walked out of the impound lot. I didn’t want to go back. That night, I was vending the VOICE and I broke down in tears. I realized that it would cost me way more money to buy anything else. Then, my girlfriend got her son to send us $150 to help us get the camper out. But when we got the camper, [my girlfriend] became very sick and ended up in the hospital. Meanwhile, we got to do something about the City robbing people and taking their cash. I think it’s a shame that they would do that. ■ Thank you, VOLUNTEERS! BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN, MANAGING EDITOR IN THIS ISSUE, Denver VOICE Board Chair Nikki Lawson shares her thoughts about volunteering. Some may read Lawson’s words and not give them another thought. For those of us in the Denver VOICE community, volunteers are unsung heroes whose time, knowledge and compassion make all the difference in our ability to fulfill our mission. In recognition of National Volunteer Month, the VOICE staff and vendors would like to acknowledge the wonderful people who donate their time and talents to the VOICE. ■ If you are interested in volunteering for the VOICE, visit denvervoice.org/volunteer. To explore volunteer opportunities in Denver, visit sparkthechangecolorado.org. KERSTEN JAEGER ANDREW KLOOSTER KATE MARSHALL AARON SULLIVAN LAURA WING WE MOVED! 12 DENVER VOICE April 2021 Our vendor offi ce is now located at : 989 Santa Fe Drive Denver, CO 80204 We are still settling into our new Denver VOICE office. When it is safer to gather in large groups again, we hope you will stop by and say hello! LANIE LEE COOK TY HOLTER EVENTS COURTESY OF DEBORAH LASTOWKA PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, who provides this list of ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. GARAGE BAND: FELIX AYODELE & THE NEW MOONS + THE GRAND ALLIANCE Discover your new favorite band…from the comfort of your own couch. The MCA’s live music series is back and this time, you have the option of watching from home. WHEN: Apr 2, 6 p.m. COST: Free; visit the site for in-person ticketing options as well. MORE INFO: mcadenver.org/events QI GONG EXPLORATION AND PRACTICE Qi Gong is the cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine. Sometimes called “meditation in motion”, Qi Gong includes slow, dance-like movements to improve breathing, reduce stress, and gently move and stretch the body. WHEN: Apr 6, 13, 20, and 27, 4 p.m. – 4:45 a.m. COST: Free but registration is required. MORE INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming ACROSS MUSICAL PERSPECTIVES (A MUSIC IN THE GALLERIES EXPERIENCE) The Clyfford Still Museum has teamed up with Friends of Chamber Music to offer unique selections of musical interludes that enhance the viewing experience of their spring– summer exhibition, Stories We Tell: The Collection Two Ways. Bring your smartphone or tablet with headphones or earbuds to partake in this multisensory experience. WHEN: Apr 11, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. COST: Free for members and those 17 and under; $6 - $10 for others. WHERE & MORE INFO: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St.; clyffordstillmuseum.org WOMEN+FILM FESTIVAL Now entering its 12th year, the Women+Film Festival celebrates outstanding cinema that examines the roles, challenges, and triumphs of women from all over. WHEN: Apr 13 – Apr 18, times vary COST: Individual tickets cost $12 for members, $15 for non-members. Festival passes are also available. MORE INFO: denverfilm.org LANDSCAPING FOR CLIMATE CHANGE We’re all striving to do our best to mitigate climate change, so why not start in your own backyard? Alison Peck of Matrix Garden shares how to decrease water, increase biodiversity, and why conserving resources at home can add up to make a big difference. WHEN: Apr 26, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. COST: Free MORE INFO: facebook.com/GardenInABoxCO 1. Drug buster 5. Container 9. Stallion, once 13. ___ shirt (colorful garment) 15. “Th e ___ Duckling” 16. Affi rm 17. “Encore!” 18. Income-driven plan for federal student loan reduction (Abbr.) 19. Remote button 20. Daff odils 22. Slender 24. Ornamental pond fi sh 25. 2004 Jon Heder movie “___ Dynamite” 27. Most people 30. Urban haze 31. Floor coverings 32. Oscar, e.g. 37. Be a bad winner 39. “Live from New York, ___ Saturday night!” 40. Early anesthetic 41. Is more important than 43. Oil company 44. High point 45. Showy 47. Victim of memory loss 51. Batman and Robin, e.g. 52. A place on Earth, according to Belinda Carlisle 53. Species of fl owering plants in the sunfl ower family, also called southernwood 58. Hamburg’s river 59. Heroic poem 61. Boot brand owned by Columbia Sportswear since 2000 62. Long, long time (Var.) 63. Breakaway group 64. S-shaped moldings 65. Money owed 66. Pseudonym of H. H. Munro 67. Bygone time DOWN 1. Indian bread 2. Aquatic plant 3. Big laugh 4. Native American nation forcibly moved to Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears 5. Tarot suit 6. Under time pressure 7. Craft y 8. Peacock tail feature 9. Beast of burden 10. Immature egg 11. Numbers game 12. Many a middle schooler 14. Negatively charged particle 21. A sib 23. Fashion magazine 26. Build up 27. Cornstarch brand 28. “Star Trek” navigator 29. “___ You Babe” (Sonny & Cher hit) 32. Greek letter 33. Branch of cultural anthropology 34. TV’s “___-Team” 35. Dry run 36. Gaelic language 38. Make fun of 42. Chilly attitude 45. Eccentric 46. Actress Rene 47. Coming up 48. Free-for-all 49. Mucky-muck 50. What’s happening 54. Italian wine region 55. ___ O’s (sugary Post cereal) 56. Swerve 57. “So what ___ is new?” 60. Podded plant COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 April 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation The NextFifty Initiative Help Colorado Now $10,000+ John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Jerry Conover Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 BNSF Railway Foundation Kauer Construction and Design Bright Funds Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado City Side Remodeling SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Caring Connection Jeff and Carrie Cuneo Kroger Gaelina Tesfaye Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Matthew Rezek Conover/Wonder Family Fund The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Colorado Cross Disability Colalition Graham Davis Betty & Warren Kuehner Jeremy Anderson Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Paul Hoffman Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Jennifer Stedron Mr. Paul Manoogian 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 Gaspar Terrana Catherine Hegedus Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi James Stegman 3M Foundation 10X Business Consultants 14 DENVER VOICE April 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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES) Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. 833-931-2484 sunshinebehavioralhealth.com VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org April 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

D E N V E R T V S O I A C F E 1 A F 2 E U 0 M N 2 B D G R A , METLO ROOFTOP 1111 N Broadway Denver, CO 80203 SUNDAY, MAY 16 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. A 6 N I Y JOIN THE DENVER VOICE FOR OUR ANNUAL RISE & THRIVE BREAKFAST, THIS YEAR HAPPENING BOTH IN-PERSON AND ONLINE! This complimentary event, put together by some of Denver’s best breakfast and brunch locations, helps raise awareness and funds for our programs and services. Together, we can give those experiencing homelessness and poverty the opportunity to earn a dignifi ed income. I S 1 RSVP BY MAY 1: INFO@DENVERVOICE.ORG In-person seating is limited – please reserve your spot early to participate. Online participation is unlimited, but requires registration to receive goodies provided by our breakfast sponsors! R K

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE THE UPHILL BATTLE OF HOMELESS YOUTH Y DENVER IS MAKING STRIDES TO REDUCE YOUTH HOMELESSNESS, BUT THE SKYROCKETING COST OF LIVING MAKES IT TOUGH TO LEAVE THE STREETS BEHIND. PAGE 6 SECOND CHANCES IN A TINY HOME VILLAGE THE NEW WOMEN’S VILLAGE OFFERS COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND INDEPENDENT LIVING IN PRIVATE TINY HOMES. PAGE 8 COVID-19 AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN SERBIA AS MANY AS ONE-THIRD OF WOMEN ARE EXPOSED TO SOME FORM OF VIOLENCE. PAGE 10 FORGET NO ONE FEDERALLY MANDATED POINTIN-TIME COUNT OFFERS SNAPSHOT OF THE UNHOUSED POPULATION, BUT THE DATA HAS LONG BEEN CRITICIZED BY HOMELESSNESS ADVOCATES. PAGE 12 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 MARCH 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 3 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE FOR THE PAST SEVERAL DAYS, temperatures have been brutally cold. Before the pandemic, our office was a place that vendors could get a cup of hot tea or coffee, have a snack and warm up before heading out to their vending spots. One year later, with COVID-19 ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR still raging, we must continue practicing social distancing, so large groups cannot gather in our office, and those who do come in must conduct their business and then leave. Although vendors can no longer linger in the office, they know they can at least grab a snack to take with them. On days we have hand warmers in stock, they can take a pair of those, too. I am sick of the pandemic. It is a terrible inconvenience that is taking a toll on even the most benevolent among us. Resenting the negative effects of the pandemic, however, is not going to make it go away; nor is complaining. Even so, I await the time when our stories about the pandemic or personal experiences with getting COVID are all past tense. I look forward to no longer worrying about too many people being in confined spaces. I am especially looking forward to seeing our office full of vendors purchasing their papers and then sitting in one of our mismatched chairs, a cup of coffee or other hot beverage in hand, as they catch up with each other and the Denver VOICE staff. ■ CONGRATULATIONS to Denver VOICE Peer Navigator Rachel Gotwald on the birth of her daughter, Paisley Rose, who was born on February 3. March CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @deeOCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Anthony Cornejo GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg 25 Years OF THE VOICE THANK YOU, readers and supporters, for empowering thousands of Denver VOICE vendors to improve their quality of life. Here’s to another 25 years of giving voices to thousands more! VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ty Holter Kersten Jaeger Andrew Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. 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: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. WRITERS Lando Allen Paula Bard Dean Glorso Habeel Harney Jacob Marsh Jerry Rosen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Pamela Gravning Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins 2 DENVER VOICE March 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY New Program Coordinator: ANTHONY CORNEJO OUR Streets: RAY BY PAULA BARD ANDREW KLOOSTER, who joined the VOICE as our program coordinator at the end of the summer, has accepted a full-time position with the non-profit for whom he had been working part-time. Fortunately, he will not become a stranger and instead, will volunteer for the VOICE as his schedule permits. After an extensive search, we recently hired Anthony Cornejo to fill the program coordinator role. Following is a brief introduction from Cornejo. Hello, Denver VOICE Readers. My name is Anthony Cornejo. I am a third-generation Colorado Native, who grew up in Aurora and currently lives in Denver. My work in non-profits includes Aurora Mental Health Center and Fort Collins Housing Catalyst. Most recently, I worked as an emergency shelter services coordinator with Denver Human Services and also was part of the DHS Early Intervention Street outreach team. I am enjoying getting to know the Denver VOICE vendors and look forward to working with them, the staff, and our community partners. ■ RAY LIVES IN A TENT north of downtown. He delivers sandwiches to his unhoused neighbors. OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. March 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

Ask a VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q Why do you think you’re successful as a Denver VOICE vendor? CREDIT: GILES CLASEN A LANDO ALLEN You’ve got to have a good attitude and keep things positive when you vend the VOICE. Being successful at the VOICE is making enough to pay bills and putting money away for a rainy day, but the real success you can have is that you get off the streets. The success I’ve experienced has allowed me to buy a camper and keep me on a path to buying a house. JACOB MARSH I don’t stay in one spot for more than a week unless I have built a client list. Then I keep that spot and find better or newer spots. We have a great production crew at the [VOICE] office, and I have a great peer navigator. Having a family that pushes both personal goals and family goals, helps as well. I also have awesome coworkers that strive to push each other to get our sales up. That’s why I’m a successful vendor here at the VOICE. JERRY ROSEN I’ve been successful vending the paper for quite a while because I’m courteous to customers, and I like working with the Denver VOICE. I try to vend full-time. I have had some slow periods, but I try to be persistent always. CITY COUNCIL APPROVES CONTRACT FOR NEW SAFE OUTDOOR SPACES BY ROBERT DAVIS IN A CONTENTIOUS VOTE, Denver City Council approved a nearly $900,000 contract that will allow two temporary safe outdoor spaces to operate through the end of the year. One site will be at Denver Community Church, while the other location has yet to be determined. Like their predecessors, both campsites will accommodate up to 100 households and provide full access to housing, rehabilitation, and labor services. Colorado Village Collaborative (CVC) is responsible for operating both sites and finding the land to accommodate them. “We need these spaces all around town so we can connect people to services,” said Cole Chandler, CVC’s executive director. “However, right now all the outreach efforts and services people need are concentrated downtown.” Chandler said the current safe outdoor spaces focused their outreach efforts within a four-block radius of both camps. The reason was to reduce the impact of the sites on the surrounding Capitol Hill neighborhood. According to Chandler, within minutes of the campsite opening, campers in an encampment across the street moved in and filled up the outdoor space. The other camp has since dispersed, and those staying there have not returned. The contract approval passed by a 10-1 vote with District 5 Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer voting against it. Sawyer took issue with the fact that Denver is actively funding a campsite that violates city ordinances while also paying legal fees to defend enforcing its camping ban in court. She added that over 80 percent of Denverites voted against campsites in 2019 when Initiative 300 was on the municipal ballot. “It’s What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE March 2021 really causing confusion for our most vulnerable residents,” Sawyer said. “And, frankly, they deserve better. They deserve a warm home with a roof and a door. But, right now we have about 2,000 people sleeping on the streets, in addition to those in our shelters and couch surfing. We can do better.” Chandler replied that the safe outdoor spaces are very different from the unregulated camping that I300 would have allowed. CVC holds a permit with the City and is under contract with the Department of Housing Stability. Outside of regulation, Chandler says the sites are also achieving their aims: to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and connect people with housing and services. Since the campsites opened, five people have been placed in the Beloved Tiny Home Village, and two others were connected with a case manager who helped them with housing vouchers. Another eight residents were connected with services. Both campsites currently house 80 people. Meanwhile, the camps have experienced a zero percent transmission rate, Chandler said. At-large Councilwoman Robin Kniech said she hasn’t heard the same complaints about the campsite even though her office has done extensive informal and scientific polling on the issue. Kneich’s primary concern is that the City’s approach to solving homelessness is too focused on long-term solutions when emergency fixes are needed right now. Without the temporary safe outdoor space, Kniech wondered how many more of Denver’s unhoused could have succumbed to hypothermia or worse, hopelessness. Kniech said supporting the outdoor space makes sense right now but urged her colleagues and the Hancock administration to keep thinking creatively about solutions. “We have a long road ahead of us. If this is our destination, then we are in big trouble,” Kniech said. ■ MISTRUST AND MOBILITY SLOW COVID-19 VACCINE PUSH FOR NORTH AMERICA’S HOMELESS BY MATTHEW LAVIETES AND JACK GRAHAM Homeless people are at higher risk of COVID-19, but groups face challenges in finding them and convincing them to have the shot. WITH THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC showing no signs of abating in the United States and Canada, some cities have begun vaccinating their homeless - an effort clinicians warn will be challenging given the incomparable circumstances they face. Homeless people’s mobility, tendency to mistrust the vaccine, and focus on more immediate needs like finding LOCAL NEWS NATIONAL STORY food and warmth all make it harder to protect them against COVID-19, health experts say. “The struggle [homeless people] go through every day to survive, on the streets or in the shelters, has a real immediacy to it,” said Dr. Jim O’Connell, president of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP). “As many people have told me, ‘a little virus’ doesn’t seem frightening to them because they face death every day and the virus is just one of the many things they face,” said O’Connell. The BHCHP, a non-profit which provides medical services to the northeastern city’s homeless population, has vaccinated roughly 200 homeless people and 300 staff since the program started in late January. The group is expected to administer about 3,500 doses of the Moderna vaccine in shelters across the city within the next month. Similar rollouts are underway in other cities around the continent. So far, New York City has vaccinated more than 500 homeless people and staff who serve them. Over 730 of Montreal’s homeless population have been vaccinated to date, according to official figures. VULNERABLE Since the pandemic started pummelling the globe last year, advocates and physicians have been urging lawmakers for greater protections for the homeless. Without regular access to healthcare, homeless people are often much more susceptible to chronic medical conditions, which may predispose them to a more severe illness from COVID-19. Sheltered homeless people in New York City were 75 percent more likely to die from COVID-19 than the city’s general population, according to the Coalition for the Homeless, an advocacy group. Pandemic shutdowns have also cut off homeless people’s access to public spaces, such as restaurants and libraries, that they usually use to stay warm and wash their hands during the day. And packing homeless communities into overnight shelters has also become a problem, due to concerns over social distancing. People eat together, share bathrooms and often sleep on beds within several feet of one another. “On one hand, you have higher individual vulnerability because of health,” said Tim Richter, chief executive of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness. “But people experiencing homelessness can’t follow public health measures: social distancing, staying at home, isolating, accessing healthcare when you need it, hygiene.” In response, some cities throughout North America have moved people off of the streets or out of shelters into hotels to alleviate concerns over spreading the virus. Under former U.S. President Donald Trump, cash-strapped cities were promised 75 percent of the money to pay for the hotels and were not given a timeline of when aid would run dry. Last month, President Joe Biden vowed to reimburse cities for the full cost of the hotels and fully cover the costs through September. In Canada, the federal government has made extra funding available for provinces and municipalities VIOLA ROBERSON, 75, RECEIVES A CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) VACCINATION AT THE LA MISSION HOMELESS SHELTER ON SKID ROW, IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, U.S., FEBRUARY 10, 2021. REUTERS/LUCY NICHOLSON “The first 25 percent is always easy. We had no problem recruiting for the first number of clinics that we had to deal with,” said Sam Watts, chief executive of Montreal homeless charity Welcome Hall Mission. “But, as we’re moving along, it’s harder and harder because there are some people who don’t want to get it for a variety of reasons,” he said in a phone interview. Some are afraid of needles, others believe in a variety of conspiracy theories that question the safety of the vaccines or have mental health issues, like paranoia, that impede them from complying with vaccine rollouts, explained Watts. Marty Hames, the spokeswoman for Circle the City, a non-profit that provides healthcare services to the homeless in Phoenix, Arizona, echoed similar concerns about vaccine compliance. “Just like you’re going to find people in the general population that are not going to want the vaccine or they’re not going to want to see a doctor when they’re ill, the same exists within the homeless population,” she said. None of the groups the Thomson Reuters Foundation spoke with were making vaccinations mandatory for the homeless people they serve. SLOW THE SPREAD Other barriers include a lack of internet access to sign up for online vaccine portals, a lack of transportation to vaccination sites, and difficulties tracking down homeless people to give them the second dose of the vaccine, health experts say. The consequences of not getting the vaccine rollout right to prevent the spread of the virus among its homeless. Ottawa announced in December it would spend an additional $300 million to help local communities. COMPLIANCE So far, clinicians and advocates say they have been successfully able to find homeless people - a group that is largely distrustful of healthcare providers - who want the vaccine. However, they caution that things may soon change. can spread beyond homeless populations and to entire communities, warned O’Connell at the BHCHP. At the start of the pandemic in late March, O’Connell and other Boston researchers found a 36 percent positivity rate among homeless people. “Most people recognize that if homeless people have the virus, they’re walking all day and passing it (around),” he said. “If you’re riding the subway and there’s a homeless person and they have a 30 percent chance of having the virus, you want to protect yourself as much as that person.” ■ Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / INSP.ngo DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. March 2021 DENVER VOICE 5 NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Bottled water, non-perishable snacks Hand-warmers, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Refurbished laptops or desktop computers Heavy jackets Scarves Winter hats Gloves Backpacks Winter WISH LIST

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN DENVER IS MAKING STRIDES TO REDUCE YOUTH HOMELESSNESS, BUT ISSUES REMAIN BY GILES CLASEN AND ROBERT DAVIS JOSHUA LEFT HOME after his grandmother began stealing from him to subsidize her drinking habit. Had it been something of lesser sentimental value, he may have overlooked it. Instead, Joshua said his grandmother stole his Magic the Gathering cards and sold them for booze. “She isn’t a violent drunk; verbal assaults are more her style,” Joshua explains. After one particularly incendiary incident, he reported her to the Denver Sheriff’s Department and has been staying in a city-funded hotel room on Colfax ever since. This isn’t his first experience with homelessness, either. At 15 years old, Joshua ran away for a week because his parents wouldn’t let him smoke pot. He camped in Boulder, but the looming threat of blizzard snow drove him back home. Now at 19, Joshua says it’s been particularly difficult to find work during the pandemic because he doesn’t have access to the internet. Most days, he panhandles downtown. He wants to get back home to Washington and says his mom is trying to scrounge up enough money to help. 6 DENVER VOICE March 2021 “I don’t think Denver is the place for me,” Joshua told the VOICE. BACKWARD SLIDE While Joshua isn’t alone on the streets of Denver, he represents an alarming trend — a growing number of unaccompanied youths are experiencing homelessness. Too old for the foster system and often overlooked for work, unaccompanied youth face an uphill battle in Denver as the city’s skyrocketing cost of living and competitive job market make it tough to leave the streets behind. According to the 2020 Point in Time (PIT) Count, which was conducted before COVID-19 began, 189 unaccompanied youth were experiencing homelessness in Denver. Eighty youths slept in emergency shelters, 55 were placed in transitional housing, and another 54 youths were unsheltered. Compared to 2016, this represents a net increase of six youths experiencing homelessness. The latest McKinneyVento numbers reported by Colorado’s Department of Education show Denver had a total of 1,849 homeless students, 108 of whom were unaccompanied, a 17 percent increase since 2016. Over the same time frame, Denver has drastically revamped its reporting of PIT Count data. Four years ago, the City released a detailed 11-page report that statistically compared the age and demographic information collected. A revealing data point is that youths between the ages of 18 and 24 years old made up the highest percentage of Denver’s homeless population in 2016. In comparison, data from the 2020 Count was released in a one-page fact sheet with an experimental online dashboard accompanying it. The dashboard itself doesn’t delve any deeper into the numbers; it merely reports statistics based on a user’s selected criteria. NUMBERS AND LIVED EXPERIENCE To better understand how to help Colorado’s homeless youth, the State’s Office of Homeless Youth Services (OHYS) developed the Youth Supplemental Survey (YSS) in 2016 to help bridge the gap between the state’s PIT Count data and the lived experience of homelessness. The survey is conducted in partnership with the state’s four Continuums of Care (COC): El Paso/Pikes Peak, the Metropolitan Denver Homeless Initiative Balance of State, and the newly formed Northern Colorado COC. Each COC is required to participate in the survey. However, not all have enough resources or volunteers to do a physical count. Instead, all COCs provide OHYS with sheltered youth counts for the relative ease of pairing it with the PIT Count. The YSS data is then subdivided between youths who are enrolled in school and those who are not, according to OHYS Director Kristin Toombs. “Comparing school status amongst youth experiencing homelessness helps identify potential trends in demographics, social determinants, homelessness history, LOCAL STORY or other barriers and life experiences,” Toombs told the VOICE. “One of the most revealing parts of the survey was that 85 percent of youth counted were older than in previous counts, suggesting they are experiencing multiple episodes of homelessness or prolonged periods of homelessness,” Toombs added. The survey also found higher incidences of youths experiencing homelessness with various mental, physical, or behavioral health issues, something the State was making good progress to reduce. Between 2017 and 2019, the prevalence of homeless youth reporting mental health issues dropped by 30 percent, according to the YSS. Similarly, the incident rates for physical health and domestic violence issues dropped 19 percent and 9 percent, respectively. However, the incidence rates in each category increased in 2020. The number of homeless youths experiencing mental health issues increased by 20 percent; physical health issues increased by 7 percent, and domestic violence increased by four percent. While these figures are useful in determining trends, OHYS Program Specialist Paul Vong cautions against using the data to make deductions. The survey only identified 401 homeless youth statewide in 2020, a very clear and obvious undercount. According to Vong, the amount of overlap between YSS data and other youth homelessness counts is unknown to researchers as well. Current privacy laws and the anonymous nature of the survey make it impossible to compare data at the individual level. “There is no conclusive evidence provided from YSS data to determine the spike in youth experiencing homelessness. Much more information is needed regarding the ways youth enter into homelessness and the manner youth exit homelessness into permanent housing,” he said. WHY YOUTHS BECOME HOMELESS Data captured through the YSS does reveal two significant needs and gaps in youth homelessness: affordable housing and access to income. Colorado’s affordability crisis is well-documented, but the impact of the pandemic on youth employment is still coming into focus. According to Mathematica, a data analytics company, Colorado experienced a 20 percent spike in youth unemployment after the pandemic began, accounting for one of the highest increases in the nation. Economists at the University of Colorado Boulder anticipate Denver’s economy to fall short of a full recovery in 2021 as well. Industries most primed for growth include hospitality, transportation, and finance, according to the Leeds School of Business Research Division. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows more than 20,000 workers were shed from Denver’s workforce in the first four months of 2020. The workforce has since nearly returned to its January 2020 totals, but the city’s available job stock remains low. In practice, this means homeless youth are competing with adults for part-time and entrylevel positions. The pandemic’s economic impacts have also increased the number of households facing housing instability. Federal and state funds are available for Colorado renters facing eviction, but a report by The Colorado Sun found many landlords aren’t accepting the assistance. As a result, the Denver County Court may hear tens of thousands of eviction cases if the state moratorium ends. Meanwhile, many low-income and homeless youths can’t participate in city-run youth employment programs because they transitioned to a virtual setting. FORGING A PATH FORWARD An easy solution the YSS data points to is helping unaccompanied youth enroll or stay in school. Only 44 percent of YSS participants said their last stable residence was in Colorado. Sixty-nine percent of those who reported a stable residence in the state attended school, which speaks to the important role schools play in providing children and their families with necessary services. YSS data also shows that school attendance correlates with a greater quality of life. Homeless youth who attend school often have a connection with their family but live doubled up with relatives or friends. On the other hand, a majority of homeless youths not in school are more connected to caseworkers and often sleep on the streets or in shelters, the survey found. Another solution is to increase supportive housing and social services. One way is to build permanent supportive housing and pass rental assistance policies for homeless and low-income youth, the survey said. For example, in 2020, the City of Fort Collins built a 34unit apartment complex for homeless and at-risk teens known as the House. The House serves as a temporary shelter for kids aged 13 to 20. Social support services should also address the overrepresentation of LGBTQ+ youths experiencing homelessness, the survey recommends. YSS data shows nearly 30 percent of survey participants who disclosed their sexual orientation reported being LGBTQ+. However, there is still so much researchers don’t know about youth homelessness in Colorado, according to the survey. The questions volunteers ask do not address whether the experiences with the child welfare or juvenile justice systems are a result of homelessness, or if the system’s involvement contributed to the experience of homelessness. “The report certainly highlights what some homeless youth have in the past, or are currently experiencing across Colorado. However, the highlight really is on areas where we need to learn more,” Toombs said. ■ The Denver VOICE is looking for volunteer board members to help lead and strengthen our programs to provide economic empowerment and education tools to those experiencing homelessness or poverty in our community. If you are looking for a meaningful way to participate in advocating on behalf of those we serve, email your resume or CV to president@denvervoice.org Ideal candidates will have non-profi t development and or fundraising experience and have a passion for making a difference in traditionally marginalized communities. BOARD MEMBERS WANTED! CREDIT: GILES CLASEN March 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE SECOND CHANCES IN A TINY HOME VILLAGE BY PAULA BARD TAMMY “With this COVID thing, everything got harder.” A NATURAL STORY-TELLER, her face brightens with a mischievous smile. Tammy is a self-styled hippie in her late 50s. She came out to Aspen from New York in the early ‘80s to be a ski bum and stayed, because, as she explained, “I loved the sun!” She worked as a nurse in Capitol Hill for years, often commuting to her teepee near Deckers while volunteering with environmental groups. She and her husband traveled to Rainbow Gatherings all over the country, giving her “lots of practice in intentional community living.” She feels prepared to handle her new communal life in the Women’s Village at Clara Brown Commons, Denver’s second tiny home village. Tammy was struggling before the pandemic. A longtime CREDIT: PAULA BARD ICU nurse for PresbyterianSt. Luke’s, she had always worked the night shift. After her second husband died, Tammy just didn’t have it in her to keep it up. She took a job working on the 16th Street Mall at a medical clinic but could no longer afford housing in Denver’s skyrocketing rental market. To survive, she began sleeping in her broken truck while it was parked at a friend’s house in Lakewood. Then the clinic closed when the pandemic hit last spring. “I was saving money to fix the transmission, keeping it in my friend’s driveway. I would take the last bus out of Denver to Lakewood and sleep in my car at night. My friend didn’t know I was sleeping in it. But then it needed more repairs than a transmission; I couldn’t afford it. So last summer I stored it up in RINO, but then it got stolen. No insurance.” Tammy camped out in Lakewood all summer, often under her tarp with a sleeping bag, to avoid being seen. She camped along the RTD W line and in Belmar. “I was getting unemployment, but then they changed the website, and I stopped getting it.” Finally, in late fall, the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless hooked her up with the opening of the Women’s Village. In early December, she moved in. This new stability has allowed Tammy, a restless soul, to look forward to joining some friends putting together an organic farm. She now muses about getting her Airstream trailer outfitted for travel, teaching yoga, and dispensing medical herbs. She is currently involved in an online yoga certification program. Eager to get on with her life, she just needs a running truck to carry the rig. VALARIE “It’s good that we help each other out here, and it feels supportive, you know – you get a second chance.” VALARIE AND HER TWO DOGS joined the Women’s Village recently after her heart surgery. She is recovering and feeling optimistic. She has welcomed the support in the village. Originally from Denver, Valarie worked for an AARP community center supervising the kitchen, which closed during the pandemic. She really likes working with seniors and hopes to go back when she has recovered – and they reopen. As a woman in her 60s, she is very aware of the rough road for the elderly in today’s economy, having lived it herself. “Things happen you know, I mean ... everybody knows that half the population is one paycheck away from being homeless.” Valarie ended up on the streets in Denver after her mother died, and their house in Park Hill was sold. “It’s really hard to take care of yourself when you’re out on the streets. To feed yourself. It’s too hard, and especially for women, it’s too hard. Especially for older women it’s much too hard.” She feels grateful to have such a supportive community in the Women’s Village for her recuperation and to be able to have her dogs with her – dogs are not allowed in the shelters. CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD 8 DENVER VOICE March 2021 COMMUNITY PROFILE KIMBERLY Support has made the difference. “I love to look forward to doing things – these people helping you.” ORIGINALLY FROM NEW YORK, Kimberly slept on friends’ couches and stayed on the street, all while trying to study for the GED and work on her cosmetology certification. She wants independence and fights to do it on her own. But, unhoused, it was too hard, never knowing where she will sleep or shower or eat and “having to worry about safety, you know.” On the wall of her colorfully decorated tiny house, she has posted pictures of the beautiful two-year-old daughter that she hopes to reunite with, eventually. Children are not allowed in the women’s tiny home village. It’s been rough. She is researching the possibility of acquiring a service dog to help with her anxiety. CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD “NOW THEY ARE SLEEPING IN A SAFE, STABLE, BRIGHT, COMMUNITY-BASED ENVIRONMENT WHERE THEIR HEALING JOURNEY CAN BEGIN TOGETHER.” – Cole Chandler, executive director of Colorado Village Collaborative CREDIT: PAULA BARD NEAR I-70 IN NORTH DENVER, the Women’s Village at Clara Brown Commons sits behind a fence in an inconspicuous cluster at 37th Ave. and York St. It includes 14 homes and a common house with a bright, spacious kitchen, bathrooms, and storage. This is Denver’s second tiny home village organized by the Colorado Village Collaborative. Building on their success in housing the unhoused and getting people back on their feet, they plan more tiny home villages in the future. The new Women’s Village offers independent living in separate, private tiny homes, plus community support for formally unhoused women and transgender folks. The University of Denver’s Center for Housing and Homelessness Research began monitoring Denver’s first tiny home village, called Beloved Community Village, back when it opened in 2017. They found that residents were four times more likely to be working or in school. They also reported lower levels of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Hannah Fageeh, who has a background working in domestic violence programs at SafeHouse Denver, is the Women’s Village coordinator. She first worked with the Beloved Community Village, which is now situated in the Globeville neighborhood. Fageeh started as a volunteer for Beloved Community and ended her stint there as the village coordinator. Fageeh is excited about all the support they are able to offer the residents at the Women’s Village. This includes a resource navigator for education and employment and a new mental health grant with many choices for individual and group care, both on-site and via telehealth. “We want to see people actually healing and not sticking in survival mode, because I think that’s really the hardest thing – getting out of this survival mode.” Survival mode is understandable. Women coming off the streets often carry a heavy burden of trauma. One resident reported she had been raped four times while she was living on Denver’s streets. Trauma therapy can make all the difference. In both tiny home villages, residents can stay in their new community for a year or more if they need it. They have assistance finding appropriate, attainable, and affordable housing when they are ready to move on. According to Fageeh, some stay at Beloved Community Village for a year. Some people for only three, six, or seven months. Some people stay for a couple of years. Both tiny home communities are flexible with a primary focus on healing and community. The Women’s Village, which is the anchor for a large property at 37th Ave. and York St., is owned by Mile High Ministries. They are expanding ambitiously and aim to build 60 affordable, below-market-rate apartments in the near future. Habitat for Humanity will build affordable homes. Tiny home villages will not solve the crisis of the unhoused in Denver, but they are one humane and successful piece of the puzzle. Tonight, 14 more people in our community are off the streets. They are safe and on the road to healing from the trauma of economic hardship and displacement. They have a second chance. ■ March 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY report violence safely, say the researchers who worked on the report “Gender Analysis of the COVID-19 Response in the Republic of Serbia”, which was produced by the OSCE Mission to Serbia and Women’s Platform for the Development of Serbia 2014–2020. “It’s been confirmed worldwide that violence against women in the family and intimate partnership increased during the crisis, as well as the risk factors that impacted the manifestation of violence,” the report stated. “Hence, it is certain that during the state of emergency in Serbia and other countries violence against women has increased, not decreased.” This was also confirmed by the large numbers of women who sought help from women’s organizations during the spring of 2020. Although the number of reported cases of violence AN ACTIVIST POSES FOR PICTURE DURING A PROTEST BY NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION (NGO) RIO DE PAZ (RIO OF PEACE) AGAINST RAPE AND VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ON COPACABANA BEACH IN RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL, JUNE 6, 2016. REUTERS/SERGIO MORAES COVID-19 AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN SERBIA BY JOVAN DJUKIC The measures implemented around the world in the attempt to halt the coronavirus pandemic have triggered a parallel epidemic of violence against women. As part of Liceulice’s ‘COVID-19 and Marginalised Groups’ series, Jovan Djukic examines how Serbia has responded to the challenge of supporting women who are victims of domestic violence during the pandemic. WHEN THE STATE OF EMERGENCY WAS ANNOUNCED on March 15th, it was tagged with the message, “Stay home, stay safe.” However, it has turned out the be quite the opposite for women whose homes weren’t a safe place before the coronavirus pandemic. And there are lot of them. World Health Organization data paint a devastating picture of modern society, identifying that as many as one-third of women are exposed to some form of violence. Most often, this takes the form of economic violence, which is followed by psychological aggression and, finally, physical violence, which in its most brutal form leads to death in the form of femicide. STRESS AND UNCERTAINTY LEAD TO BREAKDOWN While the eyes of the public were focused on the novel coronavirus as it swept around the globe, violence could take place unhindered within four walls. “We were all caught by surprise by the rapid decisions that were made on restrictive measures – that includes non-governmental organizations, institutions, and the victims of violence themselves,” says Mirjana Mitic from the Autonomous Women’s Centre. “Restrictive measures, which included curfews and quarantine, facilitated the use of one of the basic techniques of the perpetrators of violence – the isolation of the victim. When it comes to domestic violence, in many cases the victim was unable to get in touch with other people and get 10 DENVER VOICE March 2021 necessary information and support. This made it easier for the perpetrator to convince the victim that there was no one to help and that state institutions had more important things to deal with.” Lidija Vasiljevic, a psychotherapist and feminist activist, explains that it was to be expected that any kind of pressure, and especially the great amount of stress and uncertainty caused by the pandemic, would affect even those who wouldn’t lose control under “typical” circumstances. “Violence is a form of communication, and people who lack control project themselves onto others,” she explains. “In our society, violence is also a mechanism for gaining false control and maintaining control in intimate partnerships. The longer people feel helpless and are exposed to a crisis, the more violence can be expected. Unfortunately, women are the easiest target: they are the ones closest to the perpetrator, they often have nowhere to go and, in the patriarchal system, it is thought that they deserve such treatment if they are not obeying [their partner]. The increase in violence is already happening, and we are yet to appreciate the true numbers [of those affected].” She points out that violence is not necessarily most common in families with a low social status and low level of education; however, members of such families often find themselves in the local news because conflicts can be more intense. MORE VIOLENCE; FEWER POLICE REPORTS According to the Ministry of the Interior, the number of women who reported violence during the state of emergency in 2020 was 48.6 percent lower than the average; however, organizations working with victims warn that this does not mean that the amount of violence decreased. The lower number of reports is a result of the limited ability to decreased, and the number of calls to the National SOS helpline remained unchanged, the number of women who contacted the Autonomous Women’s Centre during the first month of the state of emergency state tripled. The number of calls to the Human Rights Committee SOS helpline in Vranje increased by 25 percent, and the number of calls to the Roma Women’s Association – Osvit – in Nis doubled. According to Mirjana Mitic from the Autonomous Women’s Centre, the civil sector had to adapt overnight and transfer all its work online; as a result, SOS services were provided via mobile and messaging services such as Viber, WhatsApp and Facebook, and over e-mail. Women approached the Autonomous Women’s Centre primarily because state institutions were either not available or would give them conflicting and sparse information. There were also cases where women reported violence to state institutions but did not receive appropriate protection as the perpetrators were only given verbal warnings. “If you have institutions that do not send a clear message,” Mirjana Mitic says, “it cannot be expected that women will contact these institutions to report violence.” In addition, she says, it is vitally important to never ask women to report violence without first creating a safety plan; this is because reporting violence is the point at which the level of violence may escalate. MASK 19 AND OTHER SOLUTIONS The first wave of the pandemic in spring 2020 made clear the importance of the state reacting quickly and systemically during a crisis. Many countries came to the conclusion that banning movement is dangerous for women who are in intimate partnerships or share a living space with an abuser; as a result, a number of customized solutions were developed. The above-mentioned report by the OSCE Mission and Women’s Platform for the Development of Serbia states that the introduction of a solution that would enable women to seek help without risking their safety was on the agenda of the Coordination Body for Gender Equality and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. However, no specific solutions were implemented in Serbia. One of the few institutional reactions to the issue of domestic violence during the pandemic was the decision of the High Court Council, which stated that domestic violence cases should not be delayed as a result of the pandemic. Between March 15th and April 25th, 44 urgent measures were imposed against abusers, although it can be assumed that this number would be far higher if violence could have been easily and safely reported at the time. Sadly, there are numerous cases in which the existing solutions proved to be inadequate under the new, changed conditions brought about by coronavirus. For example, women’s safe houses accepted new users only if they were COVID-19 negative, but at that time you could only get tested if you were showing symptoms. Another blow to women at risk of violence was the case of a woman being sentenced for trying to report violence during the ban on movement – this despite the fact that top state officials encouraged her to do so on PAGE TITLE several occasions. The sentence was later withdrawn; however, we know that the initial story will always reach more people than its retraction, Mirjana Mitic reminds us. She adds that the Autonomous Women’s Centre is in regular contact with the Centres for Social Work and that state institutions did not provide clear instructions to these centers. “We even addressed the Ministry in writing and demanded that they provide specific guidelines when it comes to models of seeing children during curfew, according to a verdict or a temporary measure,” she says, “and to this day we haven’t received an answer.” There are many examples of how the problem of violence against women has been dealt with worldwide during the pandemic. In France, transit information points were opened in shopping malls in cooperation with local associations, public services, and shopping center managers. These have enabled women to seek help in conditions that guarantee confidentiality and their safety, particularly in terms of their health. In parts of the UK, police have trained postal workers and drivers delivering goods to recognize the signs of abuse. There is also the Mask 19 initiative (which was initially launched in Spain but has since spread to many countries). If a woman asks for such a mask in a pharmacy, she is discreetly indicating that she is a victim of abuse. In France, women and children were given accommodation in empty hotel rooms instead of being placed in collective accommodation. GETTING READY FOR A NEW WAVE The Autonomous Women’s Centre used the lower incidence of COVID-19 during the summer months to prepare for how to provide support during future waves of the pandemic and future emergencies. Consultants were trained in how to safely use video applications to provide individual sessions to female victims of violence. The center’s staff also distributed leaflets containing SOS numbers in the seventeen municipalities of Belgrade (in Centres for Social Work, private clinics, and pharmacies). However, Mirjana Mitic believes it is necessary for both state institutions and civil society to act together. “Even without a crisis, we have to have a unified response to domestic violence and agree on the minimum standards for providing different services,” she says. Lidija Vasiljevic agrees with this statement and points out that systemic institutional support is lacking, regardless of the current health crisis. “The problem is the lack of permanence and continuity in providing support,” she explains. “Help is sporadic and often inadequate. There is a lack of free help and free counseling, but also a lack of mental health crisis centres. Both the mental and physical health of individuals are equally threatened. “A good model would be self-organization, which formerly existed within the networks of psychotherapists and psychologists. However, due to the excessive administrative and technical procedures, fewer people were able to get help,” Vasiljevic continues. “The Mental Health Crisis Centre could be the place where those who need help can stop by 24/7, in compliance with all the current COVID-19 measures. At the moment, so much money has been made available for online conferences and other less necessary things.” We do not know whether there will be any further developments in this area as the pandemic continues. We are also unsure about what the response of institutions will be and whether they have learned something from the challenges encountered during the pandemic. Judging by the experience of other countries, we can conclude that it is vital to have a unified response from state institutions and civil society organizations in order to create sustainable solutions during crises and find new and specially tailored ways to help vulnerable women. ■ Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / INSP.ngo March 2021 DENVER VOICE 11 HABEEL HARNEY GOD You make rules that seem absurd! Ones that make us think! Others we dare not try in our conscious! So we strive for the impossible! Hoping on clouds and winds! To be let down and disappointed! Yet through the constant discussion! Your appearance shows! Through unexpected wonders! D. GLORSO INCENTIVE With this COVID-19 Pandemic Dreams have become Almost too real for me In last night’s dream you were so glad to see me As I was thrilled seeing you Others told me you were waiting Near the end of my slumber We were finally connected As the clouds cleared You drove up in the old Woodie Your left elbow was hanging out The driver side window You’re smile greeted me You said it’s been a long time son I’m glad you finally invited me Into your dreams I love you mom I’m sorry I’ve been away so long I didn’t know you kept The old woody Why did I not remember We had such great times together I recall you driving A carload of kids To Lake Wakanda We swam all day long Those hot summers were cool I recall finally being tall enough To go down the giant slide You coached me As we watch the other kids Climb the steep tower Viewing a shiny stainless steel slide Almost vertical My eyes glued to the face Of each kid hanging from the bar Release and tuck their hands Behind their heads Bracing now for the giant loop Casting their bodies into the air High above the water surface Feet first gliding into the wind Then splashing deep into the water Your repetitious words of coaching Helped me gain courage Through my entire childhood Why did I not ever thank you? Many challenges You bolstered in me As now I write down my thoughts And read them back to you I love you always Mom Thank you For all the incentives you instilled in me WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP 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. Virtual workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times More writing by these featured poets: writedenver.org

NATIONAL STORY FORGET NO ONE: U.S. CITIES USE REAL-TIME DATA TO END HOMELESSNESS BY CAREY L. BIRON As U.S. President Joe Biden vows to tackle the country’s housing affordability crisis, one group is trying to convince cities they can end homelessness outright armed with one thing: better data. The Built for Zero anti-homelessness program says a pause on the annual federal homeless count could help local officials tackle the problem. FOR HOMELESS SERVICE PROVIDERS across the United States, this time of year means the “point-in-time” count, in which volunteers spend a single night combing streets, parks, and forests for people sleeping rough, or living in cars or tents. The federally mandated count offers a key snapshot of the unhoused population, but the data has long been criticized by some homelessness advocates. “It’s crazy,” said Jake Maguire, co-director of the antihomelessness program Built for Zero at the national nonprofit Community Solutions. “We’re told it’s scientific, but it produces a very uncertain number.” Local officials send their findings to the federal government and get back aggregated statistics 11 months later, he explained. “It’s data for someone else – it doesn’t give us any insight to improve our system. We don’t know who these people are and what they need.” Now the pandemic has complicated the annual count, and many local officials are calling it off for this year due to public health concerns. As of 21 January, nearly 60 percent of point-in-time counts had requested exemptions or waivers, according to figures from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Instead, the agency is allowing communities more flexibility in how they determine this estimate. And for some, Built for Zero thinks it has an answer: using the constantly updated homelessness data it has been helping cities produce since 2015. Unlike the once-a-year federal tally, Built for Zero cities create a comprehensive list of people experiencing homelessness, including information on their situation and needs, that is updated at least monthly, Maguire and other organizers said. Local groups and agencies involved in homelessness response not only have access to this “by-name” list but regularly come together to address each individual case and any obstacles standing in the way of getting them housed. “We cannot expect to drive meaningful reductions in a ... dynamic problem like homelessness without comprehensive, real-time, person-specific data,” said Built for Zero co-director Beth Sandor. She called HUD’s decision on this year’s count a major step and urged the department to make the change permanent and provide funding “so every community can collect real-time, quality data.” HUD did not respond to requests for broader comment. ‘ADDING A YEAR OF HOMELESSNESS’ Built for Zero’s name comes from its aim to bring homelessness down to what supporters call functional zero, “where homelessness is rare overall, and brief when it occurs,” according to the project website. Fourteen communities working with the program have reached this point for either homeless veterans or chronic homelessness – when someone has been homeless repeatedly or for at least a year – and more than 80 jurisdictions are currently participating. Maguire recalls a Los Angeles workshop early on in the project, where the group brought together local officials and others to map the process for a homeless person to get housing. The teams figured it took an average of 389 days and 44 steps for one person to get through the process, Maguire noted. “So, you’re adding a year of homelessness to someone’s experience,” he said. They realized that constantly updating the data and looking at individual cases can help dramatically cut down this wait, sometimes to 30 days or less. That was a major help for Marvin Minor Jr. of Lynchburg, Virginia, who was homeless from July 2019 to December last year, eventually living in his car until a respiratory illness forced him into the hospital for weeks. He was referred to homeless outreach specialists and placed into a process that had been created with Built for Zero, which led to getting Minor, 41, quickly into housing. Within a week, he had been placed in a motel, and shortly thereafter he moved into his own apartment. “By having a (home) of my own, now I’m able to wash and bathe, cook, have fresh food and clean clothing. I just became a grandfather a few months ago, and now it’s a place where my granddaughter can come,” Minor said by phone. INFLOW AND OUTFLOW Last year, Lynchburg achieved “functional zero” for veteran homelessness – from about 20 homeless vets in 2019 – and the federal government has acknowledged Built for Zero’s efforts nationally. Randal Noller, spokesman for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, highlighted in an email the initiative’s use of real-time data to analyze the “inflow” of those entering homelessness. That issue has been key for Lynchburg, which is now shifting its focus to ending chronic homelessness. “The change is that no one gets forgotten – there’s an accounting that has to happen for every single (person),” said Sarah Quarantotto, executive director of Miriam’s House, a non-profit that leads the Lynchburg effort. Rosten Callarman, coalition coordinator for the West Texas Homeless Network, has been working with Built for Zero in Abilene, Texas, one of five communities that the program considers to have ended chronic homelessness. He said the project represents a shift in attitude for homelessness service providers. Usually, he explained, “the talk is not about progress, but about maintaining the system as it is. It’s very pessimistic, a sense that homelessness is not something that can be fixed.” DYNAMIC PROBLEM Some anti-homelessness advocates worry that Built for Zero’s strategy potentially glosses over critical gaps in efforts to eradicate the problem. “This idea of functional zero is not actually ending homelessness,” said Megan Hustings, deputy director of the Washington DC-based National Coalition for the Homeless. Hustings acknowledged that the program has built a system that can identify people who need housing and quickly get them resources. But, she worried that by saying they have ended homelessness in an area, the community can assume the issue has been addressed. That does little to tackle the root causes of homelessness, she said, primarily the major shortfall of affordable housing nationwide. For Katie Hong, director of special initiatives at the Raikes Foundation, where she has focused on youth homelessness, understanding the inflow and outflow of homelessness can help response as a whole. The sector has long focused on crisis response, with no incentive for other systems – hospitals and prisons, for example – to take responsibility for those moving into homelessness, she said. With COVID and the eventual end of eviction moratoriums, “everyone is now bracing for the inflow,” Hong said by phone. “I don’t think we’ve gotten smart enough as a community to understand that this is a dynamic problem. If we don’t talk about that, it makes it seem like we’re not making progress.” ■ A MEMBER OF THE HOMELESS COMMUNITY WALKS PAST A HYATT HOTEL THAT IS COMPLETELY CLOSED TO GUESTS DURING THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) OUTBREAK, IN WASHINGTON, U.S. MAY 8, 2020. NEW UNEMPLOYMENT DATA SHOWS THE U.S. ECONOMY LOST A STAGGERING 20.5 MILLION JOBS IN APRIL. REUTERS/JONATHAN ERNST 12 DENVER VOICE March 2021 Courtesy of Reuters / Thomson Reuters Foundation / INSP.ngo EVENTS COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, who provides this list of ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. 1 14 17 FRIDAY MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION A regular meditation practice can help you cultivate kindness and inner peace – two things we desperately need in these stressful times. Each class will include instruction on some mindfulness themes followed by 30 minutes of practice. All levels are welcome! WHEN: Mar 5, 12, 19, and 26, 10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. COST: Free but registration is required. MORE INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming ADAM CAYTON-HOLLAND VIRTUAL EVENT 51 52 Local funnyman, Adam Cayton-Holland, brings his bits online to be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. And who doesn’t need a laugh these days? There will be birds. WHEN: Mar 11, 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. COST: $15 MORE INFO: comedyworks.com VIRTUAL FAMILY PROGRAM: CONNECTING FROM AFAR – CELEBRATING WOMEN All artists have family and loved ones supporting them behind-the-scenes, and Clyfford Still was no exception. Celebrate Women’s History Month at this virtual event and discover the women who played key roles in Clyfford Still’s life, career, and legacy. For children ages 4 – 8 years old and their families. WHEN: Mar 13, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. COST: Free but registration is required. MORE INFO: clyffordstillmuseum.org/events SATURDAY MATINEE: WALTER CHAW AND BARBARA CRAMPTON TALK WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE? Join film critic Walter Chaw and the American actress Barbara Crampton to take a closer look at this iconic film. What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is available on DVD at the Denver Public library. Not a cardholder yet? Grab your ID and get started online at denverlibrary.org/library-card. WHEN: Mar 20, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. COST: Free but registration is required. MORE INFO: denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming FROM LAWN TO XERISCAPE: RETROFITTING A SMALL SUBURBAN LANDSCAPE This program provides a practical how-to guide for transforming a water-dependent lawn into a natural, thriving ecosystem. WHEN: Mar 21, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. COST: $9.99 MORE INFO: facebook.com/coloradonativeplantsociety 6 5 2 9 4 56 60 63 57 61 64 32 37 41 44 45 48 49 53 58 62 65 50 54 55 59 38 39 42 46 47 20 23 25 26 27 33 34 35 40 43 21 24 28 29 30 31 36 2 3 4 5 6 15 18 22 7 8 COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 9 10 11 12 13 16 19 ACROSS DOWN 1. One of the senses 6. Arctic native 10. It’s a long story 14. Bathsheba’s husband, in the 17-Across 15. Doing nothing 16. Ball of yarn 17. Christian scriptures, with “the” 18. Pinocchio, at times 19. Character in a play 20. Smug 23. Ear-related 24. “Cheers” regular 25. Full of vigor 28. Flamethrower fuel used in the Vietnam War 32. First man in the 17-Across 33. Des Moines resident 36. Royal insomnia cause 37. Backstage 41. Web crawler? 42. Illegal fi ring? 43. Part of a bottle or guitar 44. Take out a policy on 46. Princes of India (Var.) 48. Egg holder 50. Pudding starch 51. Place on the body that may be targeted in martial arts or alternative medicine 56. Croat, e.g. 57. Bibliographical abbr. 58. Merger 60. Sweat source 61. Astronaut’s insignia 62. On edge 63. Gulf of ___, off the coast of Yemen 64. Hidden valley 65. Th at is, in Latin 1. Grinder 2. Colored eye part 3. Jeer 4. Cheese from Cyprus 5. Burglaries 6. Light purple 7. Mine entrance 8. Garden-variety 9. Outward appearances 10. ___ and save (be frugal) 11. ___ vera 12. Neuter 13. Amaze 21. Canine command 22. Coin replaced by the euro 25. Jewish scholar 26. Ancient Greek theater 27. Th ai coins 29. Sleeper’s breathing problem 30. Bloodsucker 31. Divers’ gear 33. Part of TGIF 34. “Well well well!” 35. Cyst 38. Nostrils 39. Salad ___ 40. Legally prohibited 45. Lopsided 46. 50 Cent piece 47. South American rodent 49. ___ ligation (one form of surgical sterilization) 50. Four-door 51. Trudge 52. Pink, as a steak 53. Climb 54. Primetime time 55. Jettison 56. Mudbath locale 59. Aft er expenses 5 1 6 8 7 2 3 1 4 6 3 7 2 7 8 9 1 8 4 March 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 3 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

DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation The NextFifty Initiative Help Colorado Now $10,000+ John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Jerry Conover Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 BNSF Railway Foundation Kauer Construction and Design Bright Funds Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Signs by Tomorrow Energy Outreach Colorado City Side Remodeling SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Caring Connection Kroger Gaelina Tesfaye Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Matthew Rezek Conover/Wonder Family Fund The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Colorado Cross Disability Colalition Graham Davis Betty & Warren Kuehner Jeremy Anderson Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Paul Hoffman Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Jennifer Stedron Mr. Paul Manoogian 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 Gaspar Terrana Catherine Hegedus Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi James Stegman 3M Foundation 10X Business Consultants 14 DENVER VOICE March 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. 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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 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org March 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 7 5 1 3 8 6 2 9 4 2 9 6 1 7 4 5 3 8 4 3 8 5 9 2 6 1 7 8 7 9 6 3 5 4 2 1 3 4 2 8 1 9 7 5 6 1 6 5 2 4 7 3 8 9 5 8 4 7 2 1 9 6 3 9 2 3 4 6 8 1 7 5 6 1 7 9 5 3 8 4 2 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13 S I G H T U R I A H B I B L E R O B U S T A D A M I N S U R E N E S T S L A V L A P P S A G A I D L E C L E W L I A R R O L E S E L F S A T I S F I E D O T I C N O R M N A P A L M I O W A N P E A B E H I N D T H E S C E N E S B O T A R S O N N E C K R A J A H S S A G O P O R E N A S A A D E N G L E N P R E S S U R E P O I N T I B I D U N I O N T E N S E I D E S T

Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,400 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE COMMUNITY FRIDGES COMBAT FOOD INSECURITY DENVER ORG HELPS FEED THE HUNGRY WITH BRIGHTLY-PAINTED FRIDGES BURSTING WITH FREE FOOD PAGE 8 ALLIANCE COMES TO MOBILE HOME RESIDENTS’ AID GROUP WORKS WITH THOSE IN MANUFACTURED HOUSES TO UNDERSTAND THEIR RIGHTS PAGE 4 ZONING’S IMPACT ON HOMELESSNESS IN DENVER CITY COUNCIL TO VOTE ON CPD’S LATEST OVERHAUL TO DENVER’S ZONING CODE PAGE 5 2020’S ANNUAL HOMELESS PERSONS’ VIGIL IN UNUSUAL YEAR, SOMBER VIGIL AND FESTIVE HOLIDAY MARKET HAPPEN SIMULTANEOUSLY PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 FEBRUARY 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 2 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: CREDIT: PAULA BARD

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR EVERY MONTH, when it is time to identify the question for Ask a Vendor and I don’t already have one lined up, I ask the vendors if there is a question they answer all the time. In the past, because vendors frequently have people ask why they’re homeless, we asked, “How do you respond when people tell you they think homelessness is a choice?” For the February issue, the question “Why do you think homelessness has existed for so long?” was suggested by Denver VOICE Vendor Rea Brown. This question is not one that anyone can succinctly answer; however, based on the participating vendors’ responses, it is a subject they felt compelled to address. As long as people continue to assume that homelessness is a choice or an inconvenient unpleasantness that interferes with a city’s charm, these two questions will continue to resurface, and Denver VOICE vendors will continue to talk about them. If you have a question you’d like the vendors to answer, or if there’s a topic you’d like them to discuss, please send it to me at editor@denvervoice.org. ■ DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. February CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. @OCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Andrew Klooster GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ty Holter Kate Marshall Austin Scott Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. 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: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open, but prospective vendors must arrive by 10:00 a.m. John Alexander Paula Bard Rea Brown Kendell Clarke Giles Clasen Robert Davis Fran Ford Doug Hrdlicka Raelene Johnson Jerry Rosen Val U Able Rodney Woolfolk BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins 2 DENVER VOICE February 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: LEVI BY PAULA BARD LEVI IS FROM THE SOUTH, where his children still live. He came to Colorado when marijuana was legalized. He caught a staph infection when he stayed in Denver’s homeless shelters. OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. February 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

Ask a VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Why do you think homelessness has existed for so long? Q A JERRY ROSEN It has existed so long due to economic situations. A lot of people cannot afford housing, as some people don’t make that much money. A lot of people want to save money, and they don’t want to spend it on housing. RODNEY WOOLFOLK Lack of compassion. I was homeless for many years, and no one would help me. Everywhere I’d go, the answer was, “No!” But these days, eyes are opening because homelessness is now in their backyard. JOHN ALEXANDER “Things are bad, and they are going to get worse before they get better.” These are the words from our leaders and experts. With this kind of attitude, homelessness will always be around. One reason homelessness has existed so long is greatly because of negative attitudes and lack of understanding – especially among our leaders and so-called experts. Our society, as a whole, must understand that there is no big mystery about where homeless people come from. Simply put, homelessness is caused when an individual is faced with situations beyond their control. Homelessness can and does happen to anyone, regardless of age, color, gender, political affiliation, etc. You show me someone that has experienced homelessness, and I will show you a person who has experienced a difficult situation they had no control over. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE February 2021 MOBILE HOMES ARE SEEN AT THE BELLA-B MOBILE HOME PARK, WHERE OWNER YACOV SINAI DECREASED RENTS BY $225, OR ABOUT 27%, TO HELP RESIDENTS IN DIFFICULT ECONOMIC SITUATIONS DUE TO THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK, IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON. CREDIT: REUTERS/DAVID RYDER “UNOFFICIAL” ALLIANCE COMES TO MOBILE HOME RESIDENTS’ AID BY ROBERT DAVIS AMANDA COBB COULDN’T FIND THE EMERGENCY CONTACT for Denver’s Front Range Mobile Home Park after her gas was inadvertently shut off on December 26. So, she turned to her friends in a Facebook group, the Colorado Mobile Home Residents Alliance (CMHRA). Within an hour, she was in contact with the manager. “We went the whole weekend without gas. Luckily it was nice that weekend, but we still couldn’t cook, shower, or heat our home,” she told the Denver VOICE. Little wins like Cobb’s success with reaching CMHRA are exactly what the group is about, according to its founder, Billy Bear Jarrett. He describes CMHRA as an unofficial residents’ union because the group has helped members win legal battles, find jobs, furnish their homes, and understand their rights as manufactured home residents under Colorado law. Jarrett said a 2019 lawsuit filed against Kingsley Management, a Utah-based corporation that owned several manufactured home parks in Colorado, really solidified the group’s resolve. In the lawsuit, plaintiffs claimed Kingsley should return unwarranted fees it charged tenants. In response to the lawsuit, Jarrett said the management company sent residents outrageous water bills, and that he and other group leaders were also subjected to intimidation tactics. An investigation by Colorado’s Consumer Protection Division revealed Kingsley had wrongfully held security deposits and collected more than $20,000 in excessive fees. The lawsuit was settled in October 2020, with state Attorney General Phil Weiser returning a $150,000 settlement. Jarett said the victory doesn’t change the fact that several families were illegally removed from their homes, but it is progress. “Before this, and even for the first couple of years, I had no clue that mutual aid existed. I thought it was just us vs. them. If that had been true, CMHRA wouldn’t exist at all. I would hope that we’ve been of some help to all of [the families] in return. I know I do my best to jump to assist any time any of them have a need, and a lot of others do too.” PROTECTIONS FOR MOBILE HOME RESIDENTS A decade ago, Jarrett may not have been able to bring the lawsuit against Kingsley. Colorado law simply didn’t have a mechanism for mobile home renters — who are often lowwage earners — to bring claims against landlords without paying for a lawyer. In 2019, Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) released a sunset review recommending lawmakers update the Mobile Home Park Act (MHPA), a bill from 1985, that outlines the rights and responsibilities of mobile home landlords. Shortly thereafter, legislators like Edie Hooton (D-Boulder) got to work. During the 2019 legislative session, lawmakers passed HB-1309, which allows both park owners and residents to file complaints with DORA’s Division of Housing. Before the law passed, park residents could only request a voluntary mediation with the owners. “MHPA set the standards for park living before 2019, but it lacked teeth because there was no public enforcement mechanism,” Hooton told the VOICE. “With the Dispute Resolution and Enforcement Program, every homeowner in a park can now file a complaint if they believe their rights have been violated, even if they don’t have the money for an attorney.” During the 2020 regular session, lawmakers passed two bills strengthening other protections for mobile home residents. HB-1196 increases the time a homeowner or renter has to cure instances of noncompliance from 30 days to 90 days, and HB-1201 requires landlords to provide a notice of impending sale or land-use change. It also allows renters a 90-day window in which they may purchase the rental property from their landlord if it is put up for sale. Hooton said her team isn’t working on any legislation specific to manufactured homes for the 2021 session, but they are considering taking action to continue protecting renters from eviction. She added that these policy decisions will be guided largely by both state and federal approaches to evictions. During the 2020 extraordinary session, held between November 30 and December 3, lawmakers passed a housing relief bill that provided $60 million in direct rental and mortgage assistance. “The pandemic has led to serious economic problems, which has taken a great toll on people of fixed or lower incomes. Increases in homelessness right now will only make the public health impacts of the pandemic worse, especially during our cold weather months,” Hooten said. “This is a time when we as a society need to make sure as many Coloradans as possible have warmth, running water, and shelter,” she added. FAIR SHAKE Jarrett thinks mobile home residents are better off now than they were because of the new laws, but there are still several issues to resolve. Chief among them is housing affordability. “It’s hard enough overcoming the park owners, now we’re contending with major developers too, who are building $300,000 ‘low income’ housing they think will be subsidized when in truth, there are really no subsidies left,” Jarrett said. But simply lowering the cost of homes is just the start. Once people like Jarret can afford to move into other neighborhoods, the community needs to be willing to accept them. “I don’t know if we’ll ever actually see fair treatment across the board. The parks see us as an exploitable commodity, most of the city governments consider us ‘trailer trash’ and uneducated LOCAL NEWS LOCAL NEWS drug addicts that lower their tax income and property values,” Jarrett said. CMHRA is working on developing a pilot program that will place mobile home residents in stable affordable housing. In partnership with local food banks and other service organizations, Jarrett thinks the program can help lower someone’s cost of living to around $700 a month or less, depending on the family size and size of the home. Until that day arrives, Jarrett hopes local leaders focus on helping people keep the homes they’re in until the pandemic ends. Otherwise, the state could see a drastic increase in poverty and homelessness. “COVID-19 distracted everyone from the lesser epidemic, the national housing crisis, which is really going to go crazy when the moratoriums on evictions eventually expire,” he said. ■ ZONING’S IMPACT ON HOMELESSNESS IN DENVER BY ROBERT DAVIS zoning classification and was used primarily in neighborhoods like Cherry Creek, Washington Park, and Hilltop. This new group is known as Former Chapter 59. Today, 20 percent of Denver’s land is zoned as Former Chapter 59, according to estimates by Community Planning and Development (CPD). In 2015, Denver’s auditor conducted a performance audit of CPD’s administration of both codes. He found they hampered the agency’s ability to produce equitable re-zonings, even though the code is intended to promote the “health, safety, morals, or general welfare” of city neighborhoods. Denver also places limits on who can be considered a household or a family, thereby restricting who can buy homes in certain areas of town. Under the 1925 code, dwellings were limited to one household which consisted of “any number of individuals, depending on the type of unit, sharing one kitchen.” This definition could allow multiple generations or different families to live together under one roof. In 1956, Denver’s zoning code further restricted households to just “families,” or “any number of persons immediately related by blood, marriage or adoption.” City Council also added new zoning classifications and increased restrictions to keep certain dwelling types out of the city. For example, rooming houses and basement apartments were prohibited under the R-0 residential classification, the City’s most restrictive form of residential zoning. These dwelling units were primarily rented by Blacks, immigrants, and poor whites. MAP COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY’S WESTERN HISTORY COLLECTION. LAST DECEMBER MARKED THE 110TH ANNIVERSARY of the first comprehensive zoning codes in the U.S. Passed in Baltimore, Md., on December 17, 1910, The Baltimore Sun hailed the law as “probably the most remarkable ordinances ever entered upon the records of a town or city in this country.” At the time, limited zoning ordinances had been on the books for two decades. Washington D.C. enacted height requirements in 1899. Los Angeles later adopted the first “use” zoning ordinances to separate residential and industrial developments in 1908. But, the deliberate targeting of Black and immigrant communities by Baltimore’s ordinances was unique to the times. While the practice of overt racial segregation in housing was outlawed six years later by the Supreme Court in Buchanon v. Warley (1917), racially motivated zoning continues to impact communities of color, the impoverished, and people experiencing homelessness to this day. ZONING IN DENVER Denver’s form-based zoning code, restrictions on what qualifies as a “family,” and deference to residential development all are regulatory burdens on the city’s ability to help its poor and unhoused. The City adopted form-based zoning in 2010 after emerging from the 2007 housing crash nearly unscathed. Form-based zoning does not consider a building within the context of a city, only its built form. It also nullifies the ability of city councilors to reject a project for political reasons. Applications that meet the requirements outlined in the zoning code are approved, no matter the consequences. A component of the City’s new zoning code was that properties previously zoned as R-0 in Denver’s 1956 code were exempt from the new provisions. R-0 was the most restrictive HOMELESSNESS AND GROUP LIVING CPD’s latest overhaul to Denver’s zoning code is up for a vote by City Council on February 8. Known as the Group Living Text Amendment, it would expand the definition of “family” to include four unrelated adults and allow community corrections and residential care facilities to be developed in single-family neighborhoods. Under current zoning guidelines, homeless shelters and other residential care units can only be built in industrial areas along I-70 and some areas of southwest Denver. This amounts to about 1,200 parcels citywide, CPD estimates. The Group Living proposal would increase the number of available parcels to approximately 19,000 by “allow[ing] these uses on commercial corridors around the city, where there are structures that could accommodate them and access to transit, jobs, and daily needs,” according to the proposal. While the group living proposal is a big step forward for equity in Denver’s city planning, it does not address more burdensome aspects of the zoning code that impact homelessness. For starters, the amendment doesn’t address the review criteria city officials are expected to adhere to. For homeless shelters, officials must consider whether a proposed development would “substantially or permanently injure the appropriate use of conforming residential properties located within 500 feet of the proposed use.” Furthermore, shelters are limited to 200 beds and are not permitted near many residential and mixed-use zone districts. Buildings must also be able to provide commercial parking. Other use restrictions apply depending on what kind of entity operates the shelter. Like other aspects of law, zoning codes are malleable to public sentiment. According to CPD’s website, some of the primary concerns property owners raised about the prospect of a homeless shelter operating in their neighborhood include the “spacing, density, and size” and “unintended consequences” of homeless shelters. So while lawmakers spar with residents about the amendment’s impacts on residential properties, thousands of unhoused Denverites eagerly await the day fighting in their name is as noble a venture. ■ NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Bottled water, non-perishable snacks Hand-warmers, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office GENTLY USED ITEMS NEEDED: Refurbished laptops or desktop computers Heavy jackets Scarves Winter hats Gloves Backpacks Winter WISH LIST DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. February 2021 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN COVID-19 CHANGES FORMAT OF ANNUAL HOMELESS PERSON’S VIGIL BY GILES CLASEN NOT A NORMAL YEAR Most years, the stairs of the Denver City and County Building create a shelter for the “We Will Remember: Homeless Persons’ Vigil;” the building’s U-shape blocking out the noises and lights of the city. Normally, the event put on every December 21 by the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless is attended by a few hundred individuals who stand in silence while the name of each individual who died during the year is read. But 2020 wasn’t a normal year, and the vigil was surrounded by dissonant brightness and noise because a short distance from the site, Civic Center Park was hosting the annual Christkindl Market. The Market was moved to the larger venue for 2020 to accommodate social distancing requirements. Sharing the space with the Market meant those enjoying the holiday wares were festive and upbeat, while those attending the vigil mourned. Still, the reverence for the people Denver lost was front and center. REMEMBERING EACH ONE “It is so important to remember each individual,” said Cathy Alderman, chief communications and public policy CREDIT: GILES CLASEN officer for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. “Many of these individuals aren’t connected to family and generally don’t have funerals. Sometimes they can feel forgotten. We think it is really important to honor each person that passes and make sure that we’re acknowledging the risks people experience when they’re forced to sleep outside.” To ensure safety and compliance with COVID 19 restrictions, the Coalition changed the structure of the 2020 event. Instead of a group gathering in one space, the vigil was streamlined, so participants could pass through the space individually, safely socially distanced from others. Rather than read the names of the more than 220 people who died, each name was printed on a lantern. The sidewalks were lined with rows of names, giving a visual sense of how many of those living in homelessness were lost. Among them was Dwayne Pride, a beloved Denver VOICE vendor. PRIDE MEMORIALIZED Pride was a gentle man and very kind. An important part of the community, he lived a humble life. Pride died after being found sick on a bus while traveling to Detroit in 6 DENVER VOICE February 2021 LOCAL STORY community. He had been volunteering with other organizations and helping in so many different ways.” She even learned he had been a long-time member of the African American Council in Denver. “He really broke all of the stereotypes of individuals experiencing homelessness,” Seybold said. The VOICE was planning a memorial for Pride when COVID-19 restrictions made it an impossibility. Seybold said more than 350 people were expected to come together to remember Pride. Now, like so many others, it may be a long time before a group can gather to honor his memory. “I think it is a reminder that people often die too young and for senseless reasons when they are living in homelessness and poverty,” Seybold said. “That was a really tough loss for us.” Individuals living unhoused existences die from many different causes and often have multiple contributing factors. They are more likely to die from trauma or accidents than their housed counterparts. Trauma includes violence but also exposure to extreme temperatures. With COVID-19 came an resulting in the deaths of at least 14 people in Denver who were stricken with the virus while living on the streets. WE’RE NOT DOING ENOUGH According to Alderman, the annual vigil serves as a call to action because every year the number of individuals dying while living on the streets of Denver goes up. “If more people are dying while experiencing homelessness, then we’re not doing enough,” Alderman said. “It is a call to the community that not only do we need to remember these individuals that passed, but we also need to do better to make sure these numbers don’t continue to increase.” As the vigil wound down, the somber mood of the vigil CREDIT: GILES CLASEN February 2020. He was adventurous and on occasion would scrape together enough money to visit friends or go watch a basketball game in other cities. When he was found, the only ID he had with him was his Denver VOICE badge. Authorities had trouble tracking down Pride’s family, so they reached out to Jennifer Seybold, executive director of the Denver VOICE. With a little help from Facebook, Seybold was able to reach Pride’s family. Then, she began to learn more about Pride than she had known while he was alive. “He was an amazing person,” Seybold said. “When he passed, I heard from hundreds of community members. I had no idea that he was doing so much in the Denver attendees did not go unnoticed by some of those visiting the Christkindl Market. One woman leaving the Market, strobe wand in-hand, inquired about the vigil. Upon learning the purpose of the quiet gathering, she said to the friend leaving with her, “I didn’t even know this was happening. It’s so sad. We should do something about it.” ■ additional vulnerability, CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN February 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE COMMUNITY FRIDGES COMBAT FOOD INSECURITY CREDIT: PAULA BARD BY PAULA BARD “IT IS THE MOST SIMPLE HUMAN THING YOU CAN DO.” – Jim Norris, Mutiny Information Cafe I VISITED THE COMMUNITY FRIDGE on Ellsworth Ave. and Broadway St. on a warm Saturday afternoon recently. This Denver fridge, bursting with free food, sits outside Mutiny Information Cafe. Painted exuberantly with greens and blues and orange mountains, you can’t miss it! The neighborhood has made sure to keep the well-organized and clean fridge jam-packed with food. The fridge is quickly becoming a valuable neighborhood resource. While I was there, a man and woman came by and left a loaf of fresh, home-baked bread. “Still warm!” the woman announced, clearly pleased with her contribution. With trepidation at first, Jim Norris of Mutiny Information Cafe agreed to host the fridge. Now, after a trial of two months, he is delighted and feels that “this gives the people donating a sense of ownership in our community. You give food to someone in your neighborhood, you see that reaction right away.” Norris has lived in the neighborhood for 20 years. “We can make sure that our community is fed and is safe,” said Norris. “We can do it ourselves. We can do these things.” It is important to him that they are not relying on the government or charities for help. As Norris explained, “We can watch people that have been lying in the street, watch their color improve, it gives them a sense of self-confidence because they’re eating regular food. It is the most simple human thing you can do.” Mutiny Information Cafe’s community fridge opened at the beginning of December and has been embraced by the neighborhood. Since then, three more community fridges have opened in Denver. Denver Community Fridge was founded by Eli Zain, a graduate student at the University of Colorado. What exactly is a community fridge? According to the Denver Community Fridge website, “Our fridges are a type of mutual aid project that is aimed for local business and community members to drop off fresh plus homemade meals to support and combat food insecurity within the community.” Zain believes that “if you give people the opportunity to step forward and help their community, they will.” These fridges are beautifully painted, well maintained, and abundantly stocked! Clearly, the community has embraced this mutual aid food exchange as a critical, collaborative way to sustain each other. Base Coat Nail Salon hosts a fridge at 27th Ave. and Walnut St. in the RINO district. Huckleberry Roasters hosts their fridge at North Pecos St. and 43rd Ave. Amethyst Coffee company hosts theirs at 4999 W. 44th Street in the CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD Sunnyside neighborhood. There are more planned for East Colfax and Capitol Hill. Ana Sofia Cornelius, an organizer with Denver Homeless Out Loud, said they are looking at putting one in front of their office at Park Ave. and California St., north of downtown. That is, if they can figure out the electrical hook-up situation. Estimates vary, but the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment has estimated that 25 percent of the population is struggling with food scarcity some or most of the time. That amount represents one in four, a staggering number that has more than doubled since the pandemic started. IT BEGAN IN BROOKLYN The first community fridge in the U.S. was placed last February, by Thadeus Umpster, an organizer with In Our Hearts and associated with the Bed-Stuy Food Not Bombs community food share. He set up the group’s first refrigerator in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, a city struggling with hunger, calculated around 25 percent. According to an article in the New York Times, Umpster had snatched the fridge from Craigslist for free, hoping to put it in his building’s laundry room. But when it didn’t fit through the front door, it ended up outside and was immediately utilized by the community. “We are trying to have a different type of relationship with people, a relationship between equals and not a hand out from a higher authority or privileged person,” said Umpster, referring to the standard lack of hierarchy, which is a core value of mutual aid projects. The idea of community fridges and offering free food to those who need it – has been around for decades. More than 50 years ago, the Black Panther Party distributed free breakfasts to children. Mutual aid groups have been stepping up to sustain each other through hard times since the mid8 DENVER VOICE February 2021 COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: PAULA BARD nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. During the big mining strikes, workers pooled resources and offered medical care, women’s health care, strike pay, food, and sick leave. Community fridges have continued to take off in New York and New Jersey. Los Angeles and Oakland both have Community Fridge networks which are expanding to Houston, Minneapolis, San Francisco, Miami, and Seattle. Fridge Yourself (freedge.org) encourages everyone to start a community fridge in their neighborhoods. They track the community fridge movement expanding worldwide: UK, Canada, Quebec, Ontario, Brazil, France, Germany, Argentina, Singapore, China, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Israel, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, Denmark, and India. Community fridges are spreading rapidly across the U.S. and the world, as poverty and food scarcity, currently exacerbated by the pandemic, roll through communities. In true mutual aid fashion, neighbors are getting involved because they see a need, and, in the most fundamental and essential ways, they are reaching out to the vulnerable, stepping up to sustain each other. Citizens are seeing each other through this crisis. ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD February 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY PHOTO PROVIDED BY NIKKI JOHNSON, PSY. D. DENVER SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT APPOINTS FIRST CHIEF OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES BY DOUG HRDLICKA ROUGHLY 50 PERCENT of people incarcerated are suffering from mental health issues at any given moment, noted Dr. Nikki Johnson, chief of mental health services for the Denver Sheriff Department. Upon intake, 35 percent of incarcerated people report that they’re either homeless or transient, and 65 percent report they have nowhere to go upon release. “Those individuals stay in jail longer than individuals without mental health issues,” Johnson said. “I definitely think that the treatment of those with mental illness is a large priority for the Denver Sheriff Department.” Johnson has led an impressive 15-year career migrating, overseeing, and bolstering mental health access to inmates at correctional institutions. That time includes long stints at the Colorado Department of Corrections, in a maximumsecurity prison, and as program coordinator of Jail Based Evaluation and Restoration for the Colorado Department of Human Services, to name just a few. Most recently, Johnson served as the director of mental health for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Detention Facility before moving to Denver to assume the first-ever position of chief of mental health services. “I think that this position will really give the Denver Sheriff’s Department the opportunity to be at the forefront of criminal justice reform,” Johnson said. 10 DENVER VOICE February 2021 During her first year with the Denver Sheriff Department, Johnson plans to focus on three main goals. First, she plans to implement a 12-bed competency restoration program trial to track an inmate’s level of competency during the court process. That trial will happen in partnership with the Office of Behavioral Health. “We have at least weekly meetings, where we have an ongoing list of individuals who are involved in the competency process,” Johnson said. Her second goal is to bring on a round-the-clock team of civilians with backgrounds in mental health and crisis intervention to step in when inmates succumb to behavior brought on by mental illness. “Crisis in the jail can look similar to in the community,” she said, in reference to Denver’s Co-Responder Program, which enlists the help of medical and mental health professionals on scenes in lieu of officers. Johnson’s team will act much like the folks on the CoResponder Program to help prevent the worst outcome for both inmates and staff. “Criminal charges can be pressed if [a mental health breakdown] escalates, so the goal is that we decrease those types of incidents and keep our staff safe,” Johnson said. Next, she plans to develop a strong exit strategy with the aim of reducing a person’s likelihood of returning. This starts with access to basic needs like shelter, food, and employment. “The third goal is looking at entry-to-exit mental health treatment in the jail system and reviewing and ensuring that we are really providing the best practices from right when the individual enters the facility to when they exit the facility,” said Johnson. “A large focus will be on that reentry process and making sure those individuals have those connections they need to be successful within the community.” Many of the programs were put in place prior to Johnson’s arrival, but with oversight and implementation of new and useful tools, the aforementioned 50 percent of inmates with mental health issues might find reprieve. “I think there are a lot of options within the Denver community, and we’ll be partnering and working with them to make sure we can create those relationships and foster that transition process.” ■ WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP 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. INFORMATION ABOUT VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS: LIGHTHOUSEWRITERS.ORG/WORKSHOP/DENVER-PUBLIC-LIBRARY-HARD-TIMES MORE WRITING BY THE POETS FEATURED IN THIS COLUMN: WRITEDENVER.ORG FRAN FORD IHELDMYBREATHALLTHROUGHTHEINAUGURATION Half expecting something awful to happen, but it didn’t! So my gratitude is-Oh! like helium, like white water under the keel, like a sapling that curls under my heels between my toes and sunders the soil with roots that swell and draw power from the core of every blessed, beautiful, earthly, molecular thing until the tender shoot shoot shoots thick branches that embrace the sky and leaf-lips that kiss the slender fingers lifted by the clouds. What an even greater relief it is to remove this mask of our transparent authenticity with a mask exodus to end our mask-erade once and for all! VAL U ABLE MASK-ERADE It wasn’t your typical masquerade ball. It didn’t fall on Halloween, nor New Year’s Eve. Instead, on this sweltering summer day we sat sizzling in the scorching sunshine... invited over by a brave soul, amidst a cacophony of COVID cancellations. Following precisely prescribed guidelines, one by one we marched single file around the side yard of our host’s home and perched on the parched lawn the predetermined 6 feet apart, all mouths muzzled and voices muffled by masks. As a primary portion of our group discussion, we were encouraged to contemplate, then share, what we’ve learned from the lingering global pandemic. My immediate conclusion was: what a relief it is to remove the mask! This concept cascaded into an additional reckoning of the invisible mask we all tend to wear — and wore long before a virus forced us to don a facial facade. PRESENTED BY: February 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS SELF, THANK YOU FOR LOVING SELF BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR WHY HOMELESSNESS HAS EXISTED FOR SO LONG BY REA BROWN, VOICE VENDOR VALENTINE’S DAY POEM BY KENDELL CLARKE, VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA REA BROWN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SELF, THANK YOU FOR LOVING SELF! When Self doesn’t love Self, we let others do wrong to Self. Self, you finally found Self. Before finding Self, you let people walk all over you! Before Self knew Self, Self was very lost. Self didn’t know how to stop the abuse. Over time, the only thing Self knew was pain and couldn’t find a way out. Why did this or that happen to me? Why do they cause me pain? Questions that keep you stuck in pain. That pain can last for years until Self steps up for Self and wants the pain to stop. Self must start to love Self. Self must speak up so everyone knows, “You can’t talk to me that way. You can’t use me anymore!” Speak up and show love to Self. When you stop letting bad things around you, then you can start to love Self. Over time, Self will find Self, and then, Self will find peace in Self. When Self has found love and peace, Self will live a happier life. February is the month of love, so truly love Self because if Self doesn’t speak up, you will be lost. Thank you, Self, for letting me find my Self. Self, now we have found real love and peace in Self. May you find your true Self, and give it love, and find peace. ■ The following is a poem that Rea Brown wrote in response to the question he suggested for this month’s Ask a Vendor: Why do you think homelessness has existed for so long? Because there was no space in that column for his response, we are including it here: IT’S AMAZING, to say the least, wickedly nonetheless, that such a thing should exist on a planet so blessed. I ask How can Africa have poverty bleeding diamonds forever, year-round good weather with gold and historical pleasures. Yet poverty has continued so long? From the richest to the poorest country, it’s all the same, weak or strong the blame falls on the grown, as well as the child and has carried on from the first man until now it’s wherever in man selfishness found all those years and it still drags us down it’s crazy how much it is true it’s like the ancients knew when they made the golden rule do unto others as you would have them do unto you ■ KENDELL CLARKE. CREDIT: JUSTIN CANELAS SWEET SUGAR, add a little lemon lime for my valentine. Right on time beneath the sunshine. Bright or dark wine, depending on the circumstances of a treasured time. Sharing your heart with the intentions of being smart, Optimistic of the bridge, which is built on a solid foundation of two equal parts, never to depart Cheers. Glad everyone’s happy and yelling loud Cause someone must have let out a silent fart Even the dog was smart to bark! ■ WE MOVED! 12 DENVER VOICE February 2021 Our vendor offi ce is now located at : 989 Santa Fe Drive Denver, CO 80204 We are still settling into our new Denver VOICE office at 989 Santa Fe Drive. When it is safer to gather in large groups again, we hope you will stop by and say hello! EVENTS COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. VIRTUAL STORYTIME WITH RIO CORTEZ Tattered Cover welcomes author Rio Cortez as she reads aloud from her newest book, The ABCs of Black History, a story that spans continents and centuries, triumph and heartbreak, creativity and joy. WHEN: Feb 4, 10:30 a.m. COST: Free MORE INFO: facebook.com/tattered.cover COLORADO DRAGON BOAT FILM FESTIVAL Founded in 2016, this four-day Asian and Asian-American Film Festival is programmed with the theme, “representAsian,” which focuses on films, organizations, and individuals that boldly highlight culture and identity. This yeah, the entire festival will take place online. WHEN: Feb 4 – Feb 7 COST: $12 - $15 per film MORE INFO: denverfilm.org BEER SCHOOL Learn about a variety of beer styles in these educational, guided tastings. Classes will be offered virtually and the link and “shopping list” will be sent out by Wednesday prior to each class. WHEN: Feb 13, 20, and 27, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: $20 MORE INFO: facebook.com/doslucesbrewery ARVADA WINTER SESH This year’s WinterFest will look a bit different, hence the name change. However, a few core things will remain - local artisan and craft vendors, food trucks, a beer garden, and family-friendly entertainment. WHEN: Feb 20, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: McIlvoy Park – 5750 Upham Street MORE INFO: arvadafestivals.com MEDITATE & MINGLE - COMMUNITY WELLNESS Meditation and breathwork can improve your state of being, state of performing, and your overall ability to show up in areas of your life. In this session, participants will be shown how to tap into the power of breath to enhance the ways they think, behave, and interact with the world. WHEN: Feb 28, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. COST: Free WHERE: Cheesmen Park Esplanad – on Williams St., between E. 7th Ave. and E. 8th Ave. MORE INFO: facebook.com/HabitualRoots ACROSS 1. Auspices (Var.) 5. Have the lead role 9. Cookbook abbr. 13. Hands (Sp.) 15. Container weight 16. Ancient alphabetic character 17. Trudge through melting snow 18. Guinness and others 19. Persia, now 20. Follower of the Pope 23. Dejected 25. Tolkien beast 26. Pain in the neck 27. One who came before 31. Fairly tale baddies 32. Gardener’s supply 36. Lug 37. Macbeth, for one 39. Backside 41. Mast attachment 43. Small lizard 44. Letters notifying customers of a partial refund 47. Noah’s landfall 51. Cause for a shootout 52. Anger 53. Chief commander of combined armed forces 57. “Dream on!” 58. Level, in London 59. Church council 62. Apple, pear, or other fleshy fruit 63. “___ do you good” 64. Big mess 65. Water pitcher 66. White hat wearer 67. Choir member DOWN 1. Middle of summer? 2. Hoedown participant 3. “...___ form a more perfect Union” 4. Mediocre 5. Position on an issue 6. After-bath powder 7. Region 8. Residential care facility 9. Small bands 10. Tree knots 11. Slowpoke 12. Change for a shilling 14. Nobodies (Var.) 21. ___ welder 22. Stringed instrument 23. Assist, as a weightlifter 24. Insider’s vocabulary 28. Hard to fathom 29. Burn with hot water 30. Prince, to a king 33. Creme-filled cookie 34. Type of sofa 35. Selfish sort 37. ___ acid (baking powder component) 38. Hurry 40. Like some wines 42. Slash mark? 43. Banded metamorphic rock 45. “The only thing we have to fear is fear ___” 46. “___ the season to be jolly” 47. Slack-jawed 48. Seed again 49. “Cowboy Bebop” genre 50. Allude (to) 54. Strip of wood used in building 55. “Cast Away” setting 56. Chatty bird 60. Frequently, in poetry 61. Tegan and Sara, e.g. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 February 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation The NextFifty Initiative Help Colorado Now $10,000+ John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Jerry Conover Cranaleith Foundation, Inc $1,000-$4,999 Kauer Construction and Design Bright Funds Russell Peterson Phoenix Capital, Inc. Signs by Tomorrow City Side Remodeling SEI Giving Fund Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Josh Kauer Caring Connection Kroger Gaelina Tesfaye Network for Good Charities Aid Foundation of America Jim Ashe Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Matthew Rezek Conover/Wonder Family Fund The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Colorado Cross Disability Colalition Graham Davis Betty & Warren Kuehner Jeremy Anderson Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Community Health Charities Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Paul Hoffman Michael J. Fehn & Jan Monnier Jennifer Stedron Mr. Paul Manoogian 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 Gaspar Terrana Catherine Hegedus Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi James Stegman 3M Foundation 10X Business Consultants 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 add 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 14 DENVER VOICE February 2021 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Hot meals served at 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church), Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 mealsforpoor.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org February 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,400 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE VENDOR PROFILE: DAVID GORDON DOING MY BEST TO TR T Y TO FIND THEM FOR SEVEN YEARS, DALE SAWIN HAS HANDED OUT SANDWICHES, WTER, AND CLOTHING TO FOLKS LIVING ON THE STREETS. PAGE 8 BILLS ADDRESS HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS LAWMAKERS ADD NEW PROTECTIONS FOR RENTERS, LOW-INCOME EARNERS, AND COMMUNITIES TO HELP ALLEVIATE HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DISCRIMINATION. PAGE 5 WE NEED TO BE HAVING CONVERSATIONS LISA RAVILLE WITH THE HARM REDUCTION CENTER TALKS ABOUT COLORADO’S SYRINGE ACCESS PROGRAM. PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 11, & 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JANUARY 2021 | Vol.26 Issue 1 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: CREDIT: PAULA BARD

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR WRITING THIS FIRST EDITOR’S COLUMN FOR 2021, I am not filled with the same enthusiasm as I usually feel this time of year. Looking ahead to 2021, I don’t want to dwell on the negativity that the past year spewed at the world, but it’s difficult to mention 2020 without mentioning how awful much of it was. Working with Denver VOICE vendors and our community partners has helped me keep my whining about the past 12 months somewhat in check. I have running water, electricity, clean clothes, warm meals, and a roof over my head. If I am exposed to anyone who may have tested positive for COVID, I can quarantine at home without fearing that the place I rest my head and keep my belongings will be swept while I’m away looking for food or work. Despite my reticence over expecting great things from 2021, I will continue to hope that the New Year delivers more positive news about good people and their acts of kindness. I’ve learned not to ask, “what could go wrong?” but my hope is that there will be more stories about things going right. So, I will go ahead and wish you all a healthy and happy 2021, which I mean most sincerely. ■ January CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. @OCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Andrew Klooster GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ty Holter DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. Kate Marshall Austin Scott Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis Doug Hrdlicka 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. Daniel Angel Martinez Jerry Mullenix Marianne Reid Jerry Rosen Pete Simon Viggo Wallace BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins 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: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE January 2021 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY Vendor Profile: DAVID GORDON BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN Growing up in Denver during the 1970s, Gordon has witnessed first-hand the city’s growing pains and events that paved the way for the challenges the city and its residents face today. While the VOICE was on a printing hiatus, Gordon navigated the streets of Denver, observing the civil unrest over the killings of Black men and women throughout the country. If you ask him about his observations, he will tell you he doesn’t favor violence or the destruction of property, but he believes that for people to move past the pain, they need to have an uncomfortable conversation. For Gordon, it is active communication that will lead to healing – let people speak, even if you don’t agree with them. Listen to each other, and treat each other with respect. Gordon brings to the Denver VOICE his passion for people treating each other with dignity, no matter where they sleep or what their jobs may be. And he treats his customers or prospective buyers with that same dignity – even those who walk right past him, pretending he’s not there. When a group of sixth-graders recently visited the Denver CREDIT: ELISABETH MONOGHAN THIS IS THE DENVER VOICE’S FIRST TIME handing out a Vendor of the Year award, and even though the VOICE’s vendors are all worthy of recognition, it is David Gordon who received the award for 2020. VOICE, Gordon took time to speak to these students as his equals. When the students asked, “How can young people like us make a difference to those experiencing homelessness?” Gordon let them know that their voices mattered and reminded them that everyone deserves to be treated with compassion and dignity – regardless of a person’s age, or where they sleep at night. Based on the positive feedback we received from his customers and fellow vendors, it’s no wonder that David Gordon was recognized as the 2020 Denver VOICE Vendor of the Year! ■ OUR Streets: CHRISTINA & MICHAEL BY PAULA BARD CHRISTINA AND MICHAEL WERE LIVING IN ARIZONA UNTIL RECENTLY. WHEN THEY CAME TO DENVER, THERE WERE NO SHELTER BEDS AVAILABLE. THEY WERE TICKETED WHEN THEY TRIED TO FIND SHELTER FROM THE SNOW. CREDIT: PAULA BARD OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. January 2021 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS Ask a VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. Q What positive changes are you hoping to make in 2021? LAWMAKERS PASS BILLS TO ADDRESS ISSUES ON HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS BY ROBERT DAVIS HISTORICALLY, COLORADO HAS BEEN a landlord-friendly state. However, lawmakers recently have added numerous protections for renters, low-income earners, and communities to help alleviate housing and economic discrimination. The following laws will either take or remain in effect on January 1, 2021. A JERRY MULLENIX I want to get my camper running and to make a lot more money [vending the VOICE]. JERRY ROSEN I hope to make more sales in 2021. I hope to please more people by doing a really good job in many aspects. I also will make positive changes by thinking positive and being more productive. VIGGO WALLACE Positive changes I would like to make: setting and sticking with my short- and long-term goals, being consistent with my goals and following up... take the time to celebrate people while they’re living, showing appreciation for life, stopping to smell the roses every now and then, working on personal growth – mentally and physically. SPECIAL SESSION HOUSING SUPPORT AND PROTECTIONS Governor Jared Polis announced on November 23 that he was convening a special session for lawmakers to address housing instability and economic issues caused by COVID-19. A week later, lawmakers held their first session, introducing several key pieces of legislation that would become law by the weekend. Some of the bills passed include: SB20B-0052 Direct Housing Assistance Payments SB20B-003 Money for Energy Bill Utility Payment Assistance HB20B-0034 Food Pantry Assistance Programs In total, these bills make $70 million available in grant funding. Of that, $60 million comes from the direct assistance payment program. Effective upon passage, these bills are scheduled to sunset in June 2021. All funds appropriated by these bills must be spent before the deadline. HB20-1332 PROHIBIT HOUSING DISCRIMINATION SOURCE OF INCOME In 2019, Colorado prohibited landlords from rejecting a potential renter’s application because of the source of their income. However, the bill lawmakers passed left much to be desired. During the 2020 session, the General Assembly added protections for those who draw government or private rental assistance by defining them as a person’s “source of income.” It also prohibits a landlord from refusing to rent, limiting the duration or terms of a rental agreement, or falsely advertising a home’s availability for the purpose of discriminating against someone’s income. SB20-224 What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE January 2021 IMMIGRANT TENANT PROTECTIONS ACT Over the summer, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, lawmakers introduced the Immigrant Tenant Protections Act to help undocumented persons and families stay in their homes. The Act prohibits landlords from refusing to rent a unit or repossessing a unit based solely on a tenant’s immigration status, or demanding a current tenant prove their citizenship to avoid eviction. However, landlords are still required to comply with state and federal immigration laws. If a tenant brings a successful action against a landlord for violations under this Act, the tenant can be awarded up to $2,000 per offense and “other equitable relief the Court finds appropriate,” the bill says. HB20-1196 MOBILE HOME PARK ACT UPDATES Colorado adopted the Mobile Home Park Act in 1985 to regulate the relationship between landlords and their tenants. However, until 2019, these provisions were kept separate from the State’s other landlord-tenant laws and had no oversight authority enforcing them. Lawmakers updated the Act in 2020 to clarify notice requirements for landlords who intend to terminate a tenant’s occupancy. The bill increased the time a tenant has to cure instances of noncompliance from 30 days to 90 days. If a landlord intends to sell the property, the notice they must give tenants has increased from 60 to 90 days. Landlords must also give their tenants a 12-month notice if the property is rezoned for a different usage. Prior to the Act’s passage, mobile home management companies could charge up to two month’s rent as a security deposit. This law reduced that to no more than one month’s rent. HB21-1201 MOBILE HOME PARK RESIDENTS OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE The additional notice requirements give mobile home tenants time to make financial plans to purchase their units, if the opportunity arises. In an instance where a mobile home management company intends to sell their property, they must give tenants a 12-month notice. Tenants then have 90 days to submit an offer to the management company to purchase the unit the tenant currently occupies. If a sale occurs and the tenants are not the buyers, the company must send their city and county an affidavit of compliance with the law. SB20-106 CONSENT TO SHELTER FOR HOMELESS YOUTH Individuals who are at least 15 years old are now allowed to enter the homeless shelter system. Referrals can be made by county social workers or a host family. However, the stay cannot last longer than 21 days. Within 72 hours of intake, the shelter or care center caring for the youth must attempt to contact the youth’s parent or legal guardian and identify counseling options, the availability of longterm care, or a possibly refer the youth to a county department. Youths between the ages of 11 and 14 years-old, who return to a shelter or care facility, will automatically be referred to a county department. ■ To read more about these bills, visit: https://leg.colorado.gov/ special-session-bills-authorized-sponsors-pre-release. PROGRAM UPDATE Volunteer of the Year: LANIE LEE COOK BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN A LITTLE MORE THAN A YEAR AGO, Lanie Lee Cook saw a post from the Denver VOICE come across the news desk at KDVR/KWGN, where she works as an assignment editor. Curious, she read the post and saw the VOICE was looking for volunteers to help on different days of the week. Among those days was Wednesday, the one day that Cook happened to have open. Cook called the VOICE to ask how she could get started. Since joining the team of VOICE volunteers, Cook has proven to be a calming influence and significant morale booster for the Denver VOICE vendors and staff, alike. Cook studied journalism in Lafayette, Louisiana, which is where she grew up. After cutting her teeth as a journalist in Louisiana, she was ready to take on a bigger market and decided to move to Denver. When she returned to the VOICE after our offices were closed from March through May, due to the pandemic, Cook helped establish safety protocols for Denver VOICE vendors, so they could purchase their papers while remaining socially distanced. Cook said she had no idea what volunteering at the VOICE would be like, but as a newcomer to Colorado, she saw quickly how homelessness here was very visible. She wanted to know more about the causes behind homelessness and to know more about the people experiencing CREDIT: ELISABETH MONOGHAN homelessness. Volunteering for the VOICE was a way for her to learn. The fact that the Denver VOICE produces a newspaper appealed to Cook’s journalist side, but it is the social interaction with the vendors that she appreciates the most about her volunteer work. Cook’s kindness and her ability to remain calm amid the numerous challenges wrought by 2020 have been a beacon to the Denver VOICE community, and we are so grateful for her generous and compassionate spirit. ■ NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Bottled water, ARE YOU READY FOR TAX SEASON? TAX PLANNING & PREPARATION | PAYROLL & BOOKKEEPING INVESTMENT MGMT. & WEALTH ADVISORY | NETWORK MARKETING non-perishable snacks Hand-warmers, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office 1” notebooks GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Refurbished laptops or desktop computers Heavy jackets Scarves Winter hats Gloves Backpacks WE CAN HELP! VISIT US AT DBS-CPAS.COM For years, 10x Business Consultants, Inc. has been providing quality, personalized fi nancial guidance to individuals and businesses. Our expertise ranges from basic tax management and accounting services to more in-depth services such as tax planning and QuickBooks advisory services. 10x Business Consultants, Inc. is one of the leading fi rms in and throughout the area. By combining our expertise, experience and the team mentality of our staff, we assure that every client receives the close analysis and attention they deserve. Our dedication to high standards, hiring of seasoned tax professionals, and work ethic is the reason our client base returns year after year. DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. January 2021 DENVER VOICE 5 Winter WISH LIST

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN WE NEED TO BE HAVING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT SYRINGE ACCESS PROGRAMS BY GILES CLASEN LISA RAVILLE JOINED THE HARM REDUCTION CENTER in 2009 as its executive director. The center is the largest syringe exchange program in the state of Colorado and provides clean needles to drug users, as well as other support services, to more than 10,000 individuals. In 2020, the program had more than 4,000 participants. What makes the center unique is that it provides services to both participants who are housed as well as those experiencing homelessness. The organization seeks to build trust with the people it serves and does not judge individuals seeking new needles. This approach, at the very least, helps reduce the public health risks related to drug use. (Raville is eager to tell you no one has gone to rehab after they died.) The center’s success lies in the fact that the staff treats all participants with the highest level of respect and provide other services. The organization also can be a place to receive mail, find help getting on Medicaid, or even receive wound care. Ultimately, the Harm Reduction Center helps keep individuals alive by teaching the safest way to use drugs. It also teaches individuals to never inject alone and provides training on how to administer Narcan, a medication that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose. Additionally, the Harm Reduction Center collects and safely disposes of thousands of used syringes a year, which helps protect the public and the environment from exposure to the waste. Since Raville joined the Harm Reduction Center, the organization has worked to help pass multiple pieces of statewide legislation to expand services to drug users and helped make multiple policy changes in Denver. The following are comments Raville made during a recent interview and have been edited for clarity. HOW HAS 2020 IMPACTED DRUG USE IN DENVER? I just got the new numbers from the coroner’s office on drugrelated deaths in Denver this year, and they’re super high, so everyone’s upset, as you can imagine. There have been 284 drug-related deaths in Denver, as of December 4, 2020. In 2019 the number of deaths was 225, so this is the deadliest year ever in Denver for overdoses, and we’ve got to do better. Doing better will take a multi-pronged approach. We need to be having conversations with folks that fentanyl is here. Getting fentanyl testing strips and having access to Narcan is essential. We also know that using alone is a problem, so we need overdose prevention sites, where we can remove use out of the public sphere and put it into a controlled environment. We need to be having conversations about stimulant overdoses. A lot of people who use stimulants don’t know that they can overdose on them. Stimulant overdoses present a little different, more like a heart attack, stroke, or seizure. I think we need a lot of education and a supervised use site. Lastly, we have a very unpredictable drug supply so we need to start talking about what a safer supply would look like, as they do in other countries. WHAT WILL IT TAKE TO CREATE OVERDOSE PREVENTION SITES? It’s difficult to go from zero to an overdose prevention site. We have to talk about what we can currently do with a syringe access program and engage with folks in the deadliest overdose crisis we’ve ever had in parallel with an unprecedented global pandemic. The number one substance use treatment admission requirement in Denver, Colorado and the United States is that people have to be alive. Dead drug users do not have the opportunity for recovery, and when people are alive, there’s hope. The problem is there’s no good media representation of a syringe access program. A lot of times people think it’s dark and dingy; they’re not sure what’s going on in there. We had a lot of those issues initially with syringe access programs. In particular, we heard, “Oh, it’s going to decrease property values in the neighborhood; they’ll be terrible neighbors.” Well, of course, we’ve been great neighbors, dare I say, award-winning neighbors. What’s nice about how we’re 6 DENVER VOICE January 2021 LOCAL STORY pushing forward is that syringe access programs, such as the one I oversee, have a good relationship with neighbors. We know that people need to be a good neighbor in the community and have folks rise to that occasion. [Critics] were concerned that [the center] would increase inappropriately discarded syringes in the neighborhood. We have safe disposal here, so it’s better to be within a mile of a syringe access program because people can take those used syringes and properly dispose of them here. What happens is there’s a lot of misinformation. I’m always on the defense rather than being able to be on the offense. Misinformation comes out and people just start spewing it. It’s very difficult to come back to them with evidence, science and public health, and things like that. Ultimately, people don’t want to hear you’re going to be a good neighbor; they want to see it. That’s why it’s so important for us to be a good neighbor in the communities in which we serve. Our folks are invested in being that good community member because they want to be part of a community; they want to keep us safer and healthier. I want to be really clear: in the state of Colorado, when we talk about an overdose prevention site, it’s simply a program arm of an already flourishing syringe access program. We can do everything possible to prevent and eliminate the transmission of HIV and Hepatitis C — resources, referrals, naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl testing strips — but it’s not legal for them to inject on my property. Use and possession on the property can get seized. So [our participants] go a few blocks away to an alley or a business bathroom and they inject there, often alone. Then they’re dying in these public places. We can do better than that. HOW DO OVERDOSE PREVENTION SITES BENEFIT THE WHOLE COMMUNITY? Everybody that overdosed was found by somebody. We know that RTD transit stations struggle. They’ve had 13 overdose deaths in the last two-and-a-half years in a transit station in Denver. Who’s coming up on people overdosing in the transit station? Is it a transit worker, or is it a community member? WHO’S TALKING TO THAT PERSON AFTER THAT? It’s a larger community trauma issue that no one’s really talking about. We want to reduce that larger community trauma. I want [it to be safe and legal for] people to inject at my place. I want them injecting with me present. When has anyone said something like that? It’s safer [to inject] when experts are present. We want to take that off of the businesses and the larger community, as well. It reduces public injecting and promotes public safety. Harm reduction increases public safety. Drug use is already happening. We want to reduce the harms associated with public injecting; we want to reduce the harms associated with overdosing and dying of overdoses. When people are alive, there’s hope. So, 284 drug-related deaths in Denver in 2020 is unacceptable; 225 in 2019, unacceptable; 209 in 2018, unacceptable. We need to be chipping away — we’re getting worse, not better. WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE PUBLIC’S PERCEPTION OF SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAMS? The United States has never done a good job with the war on drug users. The war on drug users has been incredibly racist and classist. The DEA, the police, they can’t arrest their way out of drug use. They continue to try stigma, shame, and incarceration. Incarceration never should have been the answer and never worked. Stigma and shame haven’t worked, either. We’ve never had a good conversation in the United States, in general, about drug use. There’s so much misinformation out there. There’s a lot of misinformation even among health care CREDIT: GILES CLASEN providers about chaotic drug use. Health care providers have a lot of terrible information, too. Here’s the thing: I don’t want it to have to affect you for you to give a fuck. I don’t want to give the example of, “What if it was a family member?” That shouldn’t even matter. People should not have to die of preventable overdoses. People matter, even if they use drugs. So many people have such misinformation about people who use drugs like, “Oh, they’ll never go to a syringe access program, they don’t care about their health.” Actually, [our participants] do. That’s all we talk about sometimes: necrotizing fasciitis, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, Hep B, Hep C, HIV. My people thirst for factual health information. I think there’s just so much misinformation, and then, it just perpetuates that stigma. DO NEEDLE EXCHANGES AND OVERDOSE PREVENTION SITES ENABLE DRUG USERS? People talk a lot of shit about “enabling.” I’m not sure where that comes from. Rock bottom is death. We need to have a better conversation about that. We’re enabling folks for a healthier and safer “them” today. We are engaging with folks with dignity and compassion. When [drug users] want to do something different, we’re the first folks they come to. WHAT WILL CHANGE WHEN MEDICAID BEGINS COVERING DRUG ADDICTION? I think a lot of people are thirsting for an inpatient setting. Twenty-eight days, though, isn’t the greatest inpatient that’s ever lived. That’s all that usually the insurance companies will pay for. But 28 days to give you some time to figure out what life is going to look like without using substances has value. But there aren’t a lot of great solutions to drug use. Medicationassisted treatment is a possible answer. The problem is that you have millions of people using drugs, and you only really have a few treatment modalities: inCREDIT: GILES CLASEN patient, AA/NA, LifeRing or Lifeline, and medication-assisted treatment. That’s about it. WHAT IF TREATMENT DOESN’T WORK? There is a lot of relapse that happens for folks in recovery, but also sometimes, people are like, “Oh, I don’t know, I failed treatment.” And it’s like, “No, what that sounds like is treatment failed you. So how can I be supportive?” We need to be supportive. Our staff doesn’t talk about treatment unless participants bring it up with us. The world wants [the people using drugs] abstinent, and for one reason or another, today may not be the day. And abstinence may never be in the cards. But today is the day to do something healthier and safer and engage with folks who are just, quite honestly, fucking rooting for you. We’re rooting for you. WHAT HOPE IS THERE FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP DRUG USERS? 2020 has been a hard year for being optimistic, I got to tell you. But I think there’s still hope. There are still opportunities for people to find solace in one another, to find mutual aid opportunities to save people’s lives. We continue to train drug users to help one another, to use Narcan. People who use drugs are the true first responders in midst of this overdose crisis. I also see people testing their drugs with fentanyl testing strips and being, like, “Yeah, I did a behavior change; there was something I did differently because I knew what was in my drugs.” That’s overdose prevention. Fentanyl testing strips test to see if fentanyl or fentanyl analogs are present in your drug before you use your drug. It just shows if it’s positive or negative. It doesn’t say how much or anything like that. Once you know what’s in your drug, you can do something about it. Sometimes, they’ll throw the drug away entirely. Sometimes they do a little bit — they don’t do as much as they were initially going to do. Once you know what’s in your drug, then you can do something about it, and that’s an overdose prevention technique. They’re quite literally lifesavers. ■ January 2021 DENVER VOICE 7

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: PAULA BARD DOING MY BEST TO TRY TO FIND THEM BY PAULA BARD SCOUTING OUT MARGINAL SOULS living on Denver’s streets, Dale Sawin wends his way through Confluence Park, downtown Denver, and then catches the edges of the RINO district. One of his gloved hands firmly grasps the handle of his wagon train. It’s cold. He devotes hours to making sandwiches and shoring up his wagons before he heads out on Saturday afternoons, often trudging late into the evening. From his wagon train, called “Atheist Alley,” he hands out sandwiches, jackets, water, socks, and sometimes, cans of beer, to folks living on the streets. He has been doing this for seven years. He went out once a week until last summer, then backed off to just once a month. for now. Sometimes, he brings his kids, but mostly this is his personal project. He collects donations from friends, coworkers, and local businesses. “For the most part I buy the food myself,” Sawin explained. “Sometimes, families will call me up and say they’d like to make the sandwiches. But mainly, I get a lot of donations, like socks, toiletries. Last year the Fallen Owl [tattoo parlor] on West Colfax, did a huge donation and asked everybody on their mailing list to donate. They filled up my truck with their donations. Sometimes, my work [at Jeffco Open Space] gets together donations; they all know what I do.” His mission has evolved. “The first year I didn’t really tell anybody, but these days, lots of people donate. I thank everybody. Otherwise, I couldn’t afford this. I have spent thousands and thousands of dollars doing this. But you know what? I’m not starving, and my kids aren’t starving. And the mortgage is paid, so why not try to give a little bit?” CREDIT: PAULA BARD 8 DENVER VOICE January 2021 CREDIT: PAULA BARD COMMUNITY PROFILE Street Stories FROM DALE SAWIN THE THIRD TIME I WENT OUT, I wasn’t sure I was going to keep doing this. I knew people were hungry, and I knew people were living on the streets, but I didn’t know people were actually starving, ya know? So, the third time I went out, I went out through Confluence Park, and I got right to where the creek and river meet, right there by that little hill, and I was walking through. A guy was sitting in the grass, sitting in the sun, he felt blah, just kind of there. So, I walked by, and I said, “Hey, Man, do you need anything, are you hungry?” He didn’t answer the first time, and he looked up, and he said, “What did you say?” I said, “Are you hungry? I have sandwiches CREDIT: PAULA BARD and water.” And he looked at me and just started crying. He was just crying non-stop, and I thought he was kind of crazy at first. I was like,“Hey, Man, are you all right?” And he was like, “Dude, I can’t even tell you how hungry I am right now.” He was just crying, like non-stop. “I rode the train from Kansas City to here, I don’t know anybody here. I don’t know where to go, I don’t know where the shelters are, and I haven’t eaten in three days. I am so hungry you wouldn’t believe it.” And he was crying. Because he was so hungry, he was crying. I didn’t realize there were actually people in the streets that were starving. There must have been a hundred people CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD GROWING UP ON DENVER’S WEST SIDE. Sawin went to Alameda High School. Once a painter with an art degree, he now works at Jefferson County Open Space. Earlier, his life followed the predictable pattern; married and two kids within a secure Baptist community and family. Uncles and cousins were Southern Baptist ministers. He had an affinity for “old Denver,” which he loved to document. He played a record player for the elderly at the Barth Hotel, downtown. Still does. But at some point, his life fractured, and he found himself in a painful divorce, while around him, his secure Baptist life broke open and let in the sharp light of doubt. Sawin’s life faltered. And then, he resurrected himself; created a new path. And thus, the name of his wagon train was etched: Atheist Alley. WHEN I STARTED QUESTIONING, I REALIZED I JUST DIDN’T BELIEVE ANY OF IT ANYMORE. “There was a lot of hypocrisy going on. I just didn’t believe the whole thing of it.” I was like, ‘this is not real.’ That was cool; I felt free all of a sudden. But it was frightening because when you give up religion, you give up everything with it.” Although Sawin welcomed a new level of accountability, it came with added responsibility. He worried that at the end of his life he would look back and say, “Ya know, I lived a full life, and I did the best I could. I have no regrets. What does that mean for me…? I gotta do something with my life, more than I’m doing now.” His answer to those deeply human and unsettling questions was to hook up a wagon full of homemade sandwiches and make his way downtown. He made direct contact with troubled folks and brought sustenance. “If I only have one life, I’ve got to make the most of it. What can I do to make the world a better place? I didn’t know. I don’t have any way, you know? But I knew I could make a few sandwiches and walk them out to those kids on ‘Stoner Hill.” Stoner Hill sits just west of Confluence Park, and unsheltered kids began making it their home back about seven years ago. “And that’s what I did. That first day I took ‘em out I was like, ‘oh my god, this is something. It’s a little thing. But man, it’s something better than just going to work, and being a dad, and being a good son, and a good employee. It’s something more than that.’ That’s when I started doing it.” The wagon train was born. Sawin now looks for the few people off by themselves to contact, and he offers food, conversation, and warmth. “Because, you know, that the people in the camps are going to share everything they’ve got, or they can make it to the shelters. Or, they can show up for dinners at the places that provide them. But, there’s always the people that are more isolationist, or by themselves. That’s why I always start at the far-off places like down by the river, or at Confluence, to hit those guys that are by themselves, but then I work my way to the camps, too.” ■ walking by him; nobody knew this guy was sitting there. Just in total isolation, in the middle of this huge city, starving. He was the same age as me, so at the time, late 40s. But he was so desperate, he didn’t know what to do; he didn’t know where to go. I gave him a bunch of food and told him where the shelters were. THE HUMANITY BETWEEN THEM I was walking down 16th Street with one sandwich left. And this guy walks by and says, “Is that food? Oh my god, I’m so hungry.” And he just took the bag and started eating it, like right there. He ate the sandwich, and he ate the chips, and he was standing right there, right in the middle of the mall, just eating everything as fast as he could. And this other guy walks by and asks if we have any sandwiches left. I’m like, “No, Man. This guy just got the last one.” And the homeless guy, who just ate the sandwich, says, “Oh wait, there’s still a candy bar left here. You can have it.” I was like, “Holy shit! You know people sitting in a restaurant aren’t going to say, ‘Hey, I’m not going to eat this, do you want it? You eat it.’” How they share everything. They seem more giving, more human, than the majority of the world. From those few sandwiches for kids out on Stoner Hill to reaching out to the hundreds of marginalized and unseen folks on Denver’s harsh streets, Sawin’s epiphany brings a touch of kindness to those among us who need it the most. ■ January 2021 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 2021 POINT-IN-TIME SURVEY EXPECTED TO REVEAL RAVAGES OF PANDEMIC BY DOUG HRDLICKA THE ANNUAL POINT-IN-TIME (PIT) count is set to take place at the end of January, and many wait with bated breath to see the impact the past year has had on people experiencing homelessness, as well as the strain on services for the upcoming year. The 2020 PIT count revealed that 6,104 people were experiencing some form of homelessness at any given time. It was the latest number in an increasing statistic, yet only telling of pre-pandemic life. Projections predict the severe cost-burdened population will double by 2022. And to make matters worse, on August 28, the unemployment trust entered a state of insolvency and is estimated to remain there until 2026, while Colorado borrows from the federal government to pay out its current claims. The Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund Status Report of 2020 reported that “Benefits will continue to be paid through loans from the Federal Unemployment Account after the UITF becomes insolvent. Those federal loans are interestfree through 2020—no determination has been made as to whether the interest deferral will continue beyond that.” The last far-reaching catastrophe this alarming was the Great Recession of 2008. The PIT count documented more than 8,000 people experienced some form of housing insecurity. During that time, many homes were foreclosed, 10 DENVER VOICE January 2021 and the job market yielded few opportunities. There are similarities between the two catastrophic events regarding housing and unemployment, but in the past, the City of Denver was able to launch construction projects to offset the backlash. Colorado has used many of its funds to offset depleted trusts and provide healthcare initiatives and short-term housing, among countless other programs, all while revenue streams from small businesses have been cut off. Last March, Gov. Polis issued several executive orders to help curb the fallout and slow the spread of the virus. One of the most talked-about is the eviction suspension moratorium. The order protects renters who have been culled from the workforce and whose unemployment benefits fall short of financial demands. As of December 31, 2020, all measures protecting tenants from evictions will have lifted, and the New Year could mark the beginning of 26,112 evictions that were filed in 2020. But it is difficult to say whether or not these evictions are a true representation of the renter landscape, considering the freeze. To help understand and offer guidance on how to proceed, Gov. Polis formed the Special Eviction Prevention Task Force made up of people with diverse backgrounds. “Eviction filings are slightly lower than they were during the Great Recession. Colorado eviction filings peaked between July 2008 and 2009 at 55,000 annually—or nearly 4,600 per month,” the Special Task Force reported. Between August 26 and Nov. 28, the Task Force set out to estimate just how critical the housing situation is. Once it is disbanded, the Task Force will be absorbed by the Department of Housing. During non-pandemic times, the renter population for Colorado is 760,000, the study reported. Of these, 150,000 are cost-burdened and pay 50 percent or more towards living; one-third of whom face evictions each year. The renters most affected are those who have historically been pushed to the fringes, such as low-income families and communities of color. According to the Task Force, “Models based on unemployment predictions and cost burden suggest that between 150,000 and 230,000 Colorado households could be at risk of eviction by December 31, 2020.” By January 2021, the cost-burdened population is estimated to reach 360,000. With influenza and COVID-19 in full swing, the strain of services and aid could reach a critical point. “As of October 2, 2020, Colorado’s new Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP) has served 1,192 households, with nearly $2.5 million of assistance provided. The Department of Housing (DOH) estimates that current funding dedicated to the EHAP program will run out in late December 2020,” the Task Force reported. After the report was completed, the Task Force offered short-, medium-, and long-term solutions to mitigate against mass evictions. They recommended another eviction moratorium and to increase funds for rent relief, late fees, and interest forgiveness. “The primary purpose of regulatory intervention in landlord/tenant laws is to mitigate the most extreme consequence of housing instability—housing displacement that leads to homelessness,” the Task Force reported. ■ WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES COURTESY OF DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND LIGHTHOUSE WRITERS WORKSHOP 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. INFORMATION ABOUT VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS: LIGHTHOUSEWRITERS.ORG/WORKSHOP/DENVER-PUBLIC-LIBRARY-HARD-TIMES MORE WRITING BY THE POETS FEATURED IN THIS COLUMN: WRITEDENVER.ORG PETE SIMON THE SWEARING-IN CEREMONY Everything was too quiet, all was too peaceful as they welcomed another believer into their unmasked midst. The procession continued too quiet, when the invisible destroyer fell them one-by-one; leaving each gasping for air; like gasping ones who were placed on triage, because there are not enough hospital beds and respirators left. Like Old Man River, The Invisible Destroyer of no boundary; no social; no economic status; just keeps quietly moving along. DANIEL ANGEL MARTINEZ TIME TO BURN Under a viaduct a homeless veteran stands before a barrel fire. He feeds it with badnewsletters, notwantedads and crumpledpastlifenotes. An overwhelming smoke joins forces with storm clouds overhead conspiring to stir up the barrel ingredients to create a toxic brew. Will it swallow him up or will he swallow it up? He takes a deep breath, reaches in his tattered coat for his rot gut (now his chaser) and he drinks his medicine. MARIANNE REID ACROSTIC POEM Racial unity Essential to our survival Cultural exchange to engage Options for meaningful peace No political division Careful to honor the Image of God we see in each person Loved equally Inspired forgiveness A peace that overcomes fear To cover us, to Inhibit misconceptions Of others Nothing is impossible PRESENTED BY: January 2021 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS CREDIT: GILES CLASEN PRETTY LIGHTS TELL SAD STORIES BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN FOR THE THIRD YEAR IN A ROW, a display of purple and white lights has returned to Sonny Lawson Park and will remain there until the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative (MDHI) conducts its annual Point in Time survey of those experiencing homelessness in Denver. Each of the purple lights represents an individual sleeping unsheltered at night, and the white ones represent individuals staying in shelters or transitional housing. The total number of lights in the display at Sonny Lawson Park is a little more than 4,000, which is up from 2019’s total of 3,445. Among those represented by these lights is Denver VOICE vendor Jerry Mullenix. Mullenix recently purchased a camper, but before that, he spent his most of his nights in encampments around Denver. On Tuesday, November 17, Mullenix was staying at the encampment located on 19th Avenue and Emerson Street when the Denver Police Department conducted a sweep of the property. Following is an account of his experience. “The camp that I was at got raided by the police on Tuesday. We were asked to pack up and go, and we had a week to do so. [Protesters from] Denver Homeless Out Loud got put in jail for trying to stop the police, who put up a fence around our campsite to make us move out of the area. I left the camp with what I could grab, which was not much, just my pillow and blankets.” As unemployment rates surge and more people are being evicted from their homes, we can expect the number of lights in next year’s display, and the individuals represented, to be even higher. ■ CREDIT: GILES CLASEN WE MOVED! 12 DENVER VOICE January 2021 Our vendor offi ce is now located at : 989 Santa Fe Drive Denver, CO 80204 We are still settling into our new Denver VOICE office at 989 Santa Fe Drive. When it is safer to gather in large groups again, we hope you will stop by and say hello! EVENTS WHEN: Anytime (online) COST: Free MORE INFO: dazzledenver.com/dazzle-online-stage COOKING ON-DEMAND Whether you’re looking to make empanadas, pierogies, fondue, quiche, or curries, this online library of cooking classes will make your tummy growl. WHEN: Anytime (online) COST: $35 MORE INFO: theseasonedchef.com/cooking-on-demand ACROSS GENTLE YOGA FOR TERRIBLE TIMES Simple and accessible breathing exercises, stretches, and guided meditation for all bodies, minds, and spirits. No experience necessary but you must register in advance. WHEN: Jan 9, 16, 23, and 30, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. (online) COST: Free MORE INFO: eventbrite.com 1. Small whirlpool 5. Factions 10. “Hey, over here!” 14. Singer India.___ 15. Braid 16. On the safe side, at sea 17. Comfortable indoor setting PAUL RAMIREZ JONAS IN CONVERSION WITH KENDAL HENRY What is “public” about public art? And who is the public it’s for? Join artist Paul Ramirez Jonas for a conversation with artist and curator Kendal Henry, who directs the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ Percent for Art Program, about public art – how it’s made, who it’s for, and why it’s important. WHEN: Jan 13, 5 p.m. (online) COST: Free MORE INFO: mcadenver.org/events ANTI-HERO SHORT FILM FEST The Anti-Hero Short Film Festival seeks to share and celebrate stories and experiences that have been left out of history by highlighting the voices of women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ communities. WHEN: Jan 22, 6 p.m. (online) COST: Free MORE INFO: mcadenver.org/events 20. Crabwise 21. Religious retreat 22. Andrea Bocelli, for one 23. “Pat, I’d like to buy ___” 24. Isolating by race 31. Leveling wedge 35. Way to go 36. Time piece 37. Cotton fabric 38. ___ Wednesday 39. Sicilian rumbler 40. From a distance 41. Beginning 43. “No sweat” 44. Traditional 47. Carte start 48. Battery type, briefly 52. Sustained, in music 56. Scampered 59. With deep grief 61. Filly’s father 62. Spiny Scottish shrub 63. Allocate, with “out” 64. Writes 65. ___ limit 66. Periods DOWN 1. All ___ 2. French right 3. Electron tube 4. Land on the Red Sea 5. Harpoon wielder 6. Full of certain shade trees 7. Beanies 8. 20-20, e.g. 9. Peculiar 10. Trail 11. Epithet 12. “Buona ___” (Italian greeting) 13. Abound 18. Rare bills 19. ___ Minor 23. Heavens (Var.) 25. Australian monitor lizard 26. Either director of “Avengers: Endgame” 27. Quaker’s “you” 28. Little bit 29. Women with habits 30. Overcast 31. Petty quarrel 32. LP player 33. Muslim holy man 34. Filly’s mother 41. Tea varieties 42. Like some professors 45. Despise 46. Scuttlebutt 49. ___ de menthe 50. Support person 51. Atlanta-based airline 52. Cookbook abbr. 53. Lake near Niagara Falls 54. Norse goddess of fate 55. Hawaiian strings 56. Arid 57. Detective’s assignment 58. Salon supplies 60. ___ Fastpass (TriMet fare card) COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. DAZZLE ONLINE STAGE PERFORMANCES Free, on-demand performances from your favorite or soon-to-be-favorite musicians. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 January 2021 DENVER VOICE 13 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

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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 add 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 14 DENVER VOICE January 2021 RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs TRINITY UNITED METHODIST 1820 Broadway, meals served Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 trinityumc.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org January 2021 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,400 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE “WRAPPING UP” 2020 WITH THE HOLIDAY CHEER WE ALL NEED Original heartwarming designs from vendors inspire our fifth-annual wrapping paper insert. 72 AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS COMING TO SOUTHWEST DENVER LORETTO HEIGHTS CAMPUS WILL BE HOME TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING. PAGE 6 SYSTEMIC RACISM AND HOMELESSNESS JERRY BURTON DISCUSSES RACISM AND THE RECENT THREE-DAY HOMELESSNESS AND RACE VIGIL. PAGE 4 USING ALLEGORY TO EXPLORE RACISM WITH ART AS HIS PLATFORM, DENVER ARTIST REVEALS ONGOING SYSTEMIC RACISM. PAGE 8 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 11 EVENTS PAGE 11 DECEMBER 2020 | Vol.25 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 LANDO ALLEN

DIRECTOR’S NOTE LIKE EVERYTHING ELSE, things at the Denver VOICE have looked a lot different in 2020. Our offices aren’t jam-packed with folks the way they normally would be, and with social distancing guidelines in place, our holiday celebrations won’t be quite the same. Since March, we temporarily JENNIFER SEYBOLD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR halted printing; established a vendor relief fund as we shifted our focus during stay-at-home orders to more immediate needs of vendors; instituted Venmo sales; decreased the rate our vendors pay for the paper by 50 percent when we resumed printing; canceled one fundraiser, while shifting a second fundraiser to a virtual event; distributed papers in the parking lot of our building; and trained several new vendors, increasing the number of individuals we’ve served since 2007 to 4,600. That’s a lot of change, but thanks to your unwavering support, we have managed to not just survive but thrive in the face of challenge! For 24 years, the VOICE has provided opportunities and given a voice to those experiencing homelessness and poverty. This year, alone, we’ve tackled major challenges of inequity, division, and community misunderstanding and bias that most heavily impact individuals like our vendors. And while this year has presented a constant stream of challenges, it has also provided reasons to celebrate, including the addition of new vendors and community supporters. Another positive step for the VOICE is our move to a new home in the Santa Fe Art District, which will allow us to serve our vendors more effectively, even as the pandemic and social distancing continue to be the norm. As you reflect on 2020, I hope you will recognize the resilience of our community, which your generous support has made possible. As the VOICE heads into our 25th year, I am so proud of the incredible community you’ve helped us build and look forward to the promise the future holds for all of us. Thank you! ■ DECEMBER CONTRIBUTORS DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Andrew Klooster GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Ty Holter DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. Kate Marshall Austin Scott Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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 Brian Augustine Paula Bard Giles Clasen Ed Curlee Robert Davis Doug Hrdlicka BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins @OCE 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 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. WE’VE MOVED! 2 DENVER VOICE December 2020 VENDOR OFFICE (AS OF DEC. 1, 2020) 989 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO 80204 OFFICE HOURS: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: RICKY RESOURCES DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST For individuals in the metro Denver area experiencing homelessness – resources for food, medical care, counseling, education, holiday assistance, and more. RICKY IS SICK AND HOPES TO GET TO CALIFORNIA WHERE IT IS WARMER. HE HAS FOUND DENVER TO BE HARSH. CREDIT: PAULA BARD Denver has more than 6,000 people without homes, and more than 3,000 trying to survive on its streets. In 2012, Denver passed an urban-camping ban making it illegal for the homeless to protect themselves with “any form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.” Violations can bring a $999 fine or a year in jail. OUR Streets are stories of Denver’s unhoused residents as captured by Paula Bard, who walks the streets of Denver to photograph the faces and collect the stories of those her city has abandoned. WINTER WISH LIST DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Mon, Weds, Fri., 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. December 2020 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL STORY A DISCUSSION WITH JERRY BURTON ON SYSTEMIC RACISM AND HOMELESSNESS BY PAULA BARD “I tell people that the best person to advocate for you is yourself because you know what you want. You know what you’re trying to get to. I advocate for what we all have in common. Try to get people housed, try to get people jobs. But as far as what you want out of life, you have to advocate for yourself.” –JERRY BURTON BLACK ADULTS COMPRISE 5.3 PERCENT of the general population, but 20.5 percent of the homeless population, according to the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative Census data. Each Wednesday, Jerry Burton with Denver Homeless Out Loud offers a home-cooked meal, along with animated talks that encourage self-advocacy for the unsheltered. Jerry helped organize the three-day Homelessness and Race Vigil in Denver’s Civic Center Park during fall’s final days in October. The following is a recap of our conversation with him: Why did you organize the vigil about race with Denver Homeless Out Loud? There’s a lot of things in life that a lot of people don’t understand. How and why we [Black people] are in this position that we’re in. A lot of that comes from not knowing the history of their own country. The people that came here. The majority of the people that are Black have been homeless all of their lives. They’ve had a hard time finding or renting a place. And this goes way back to 1863 when the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. We have always been on the outside looking in. I’m just trying to get people to educate their white counterparts that we are not in this because we chose to be in this. We’re in this because it is the system in America. So, the vigil was a way to focus on this racial disparity and talk about it? When you bring up race, a lot of white people do not feel comfortable. So, doing it this way, I felt we could educate. It can be talked about. Positive in a way, we don’t have to be upset. If you do get upset, get upset about the way it was. Try to move on and try to fix this. We are all Americans, and we should be treated as such with dignity and respect. Most white people believe the myth about us instead of the truth. That’s why the country is so split right now. What myth is that? Such as, we don’t know how to do anything. No other race has been through what we’ve been through as Black people. This country gained its riches off our backs, and we still don’t own anything. Those African slaves did the work; they created the wealth of the country. How does this tie in with homelessness? Well, if everyone would have gotten 40 acres and a mule, that’s economic, it could have set up families for generational wealth— all the way down to this day. We did not get that. [Slaves] were turned out in a country they did not know about. They had no education. They were lost. A lot of them had nowhere else to go. Most of them had to walk from the south, to the north, and to the west just to make it. We were treated wrong. Our ancestors were turned away from the start and are still being turned away. So, what happens to those Blacks that are now homeless? Those guys arrested when they are 18, locked up in prison, and then dumped out on the street when they are 25? No education, no job skills? They end up on the streets, living in tents. It’s the same thing going on. It’s just a different approach. You got no education and go to court and get locked up for five or six years of your life. One or two things happen when you’re in prison. You’re either going to perfect your criminal craft or get out, not knowing anything. When you get out, you won’t be able to rent a house, apartment, or get a job to take care of yourself. You’re stuck, right back where you came from. Unless by some unforeseen incident, you get a second chance. But everyone doesn’t get a second chance. Unless you had money before you went in, your second chance is gone. What about going to their families for support? Most of the families aren’t going to be any help. Most of them are in the same situation. CREDIT: PAULA BARD 4 DENVER VOICE December 2020 LOCAL STORY “At its core, homelessness is a result of systemic issues and the resulting inequities which disproportionately affect different races. As evident in ... all data on the issue, there is a glaring overrepresentation of Black, Indigenous, people of color in the homeless population.” –METRO DENVER HOMELESS INITIATIVE CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD Barely making ends meet from month to month. Barely eating from day-to-day. See, the country has a debt to pay to Black people, and until this is done, we will not be on an equal economic base. You’re talking about an economic as well as a moral base. Blacks were enslaved, this history just hovers there, like a ghost. Can our country reckon with its history? It’s got to be dealt with in a way that is beneficial to all, especially Black people. Just to apologize, that’s not enough. With an apology, you still wake up hungry. COMING FROM ANNISTON, ALABAMA How does this feel to you personally to see this go on and on? It’s a messed-up feeling. It’s about power, keeping things under their control. Most of the bad things that have happened to me have come from the hands of white people. Can we talk about that? That you have been treated that way. That you carry this. Me growing up in the South, there are things you can and can’t do. Cannot say. Even though it was 100 years past slavery, you could not be hanging out with white people too much. Once you got to be 12 years old, you were not to be with a white person. What year was that? How old were you? I’m 58 now, so ’72, give or take. So, it was dangerous to hang out with white people, then? It was very dangerous. You had to be very careful about what neighborhood you walked through—any time of day. For me to come home from school sometimes when I was in junior high, I couldn’t take the short cut. I had to walk all the way downtown. What would have happened? I could have gotten jumped, or sometimes you gotta run because a bunch of white people would be out there waiting for you. THE JESTER ELICITS A SMILE — HIS HUMOR AS A SHIELD. CREDIT: PAULA BARD So, you’re learning at a really young age that things are not what they seem? To pay some attention because there are multiple layers? I grew up in a world where things are not as they seem. But at the same time, you have to be able to process it in a way to where it can benefit you in the long run and not hinder you, you know? So, I was able to do that. And you were able to do that because your family and your teachers told you that you had value and encouraged you. You felt recognized. It sounds like you had a deep sense of your own value. Well, I knew who I was. People are going to do what they are going to do and say what they are going to say. I have no control over that. The only thing I have control over is what I can do. That is the way I was brought up. A PLATFORM FOR THE ISSUE OF RACE People came, people gave talks, so after the vigil, then what? We should have gotten city council and the mayor involved, talked to them about what we need to do as a community, as a city. Well, Denver, maybe this work will help bring us another step closer to a much needed and long-overdue conversation. ■ This happened to you, just walking down the street? This happened to me on many occasions. So, trying to get home from school, home from football practice, and all of a sudden, you see three or four white guys start chasing you out of the neighborhood. They’re chasing you because they don’t want you in the neighborhood? Not only that, no matter what you do, they are going to treat you like you’re a second-rate citizen. Not treated with respect. How does it feel to be raised in a culture that told you that you had less value than someone else with a different color of skin? How does that feel? How do you process that? I had a mom that cared; I had sisters that looked out for us. I had a family that ate together every single day. I had teachers that were Black that lived in my neighborhood. They saw value in me. I went to a mostly Black school. I was taught that I was somebody. Some of the white people that I knew gave me encouragement. Like Mundy’s, for instance, back home, they owned a store; I used to shop there for my mom. They would sit down and talk to me as if I was a person. But, I understood and remembered some of their voices from under a sheet. It was kinda like that. December 2020 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL NEWS SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER WITH WRAPPING PAPER INSPIRED BYVOICE VENDORS BY ELISABETH MONAGHAN CREDIT: ROBERT DAVIS ONE THING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS NOT AFFECTED is Denver VOICE vendors’ holiday spirit, which means once again, the VOICE’s December issue includes wrapping paper with festive designs, inspired by our vendors. Even so, you will notice that the pandemic played a starring role in several of those designs. Our first design came from Brian Augustine, whose illustrations remind us that “social distance doesn’t bother me, as long as remember that you are so close to my heart.” Keeping with the theme of celebrating the holidays while being mindful of other people’s health, Rea Brown’s charming design shows a young man staying a safe distance from his snowman friend. The design inspired by Lando Allen is that of Santa smiling as he raises his arms in the air and with the word “Joy” floating above him. Raelene Johnson’s illustration of a crackling fire and fireplace with the words, “Merry Christmas, Best Wishes,” evokes the warmth of the holiday season. Jerry Rosen’s artwork inspired the wrapping paper with Christmas trees and candy canes. Jerry Mullinex, our newest vendor of the six mentioned here, created his paw print design with the help of his dog and frequent visitor to the VOICE office, Starla. Each participating vendor will receive $35 for their design, which is a small reward for the generous holiday spirit their creativity brings to this issue and the smile they will bring to the fortunate souls whose holiday gifts are wrapped with the vendors’ designs. BY ROBERT DAVIS THE CROWN JEWEL OF THE LORETTO HEIGHTS campus is on its way to becoming a 72-unit affordable housing development for families in southwest Denver. Known as the Pancratia Hall Lofts, the development is the result of a two-year community engagement effort. It will comprise “large apartments for families,” including 15 threebedroom apartments and two four-bedroom units, according to city officials. All of the units will be income-restricted, serving families making between 30 and 80 percent of the area median income, according to the Department of Housing Stability (HOST). Amenities include a landscaped courtyard, a business center, and open space for future shops and restaurants. Funding for the project was secured through a complex web of loans and tax credit financing. HOST provided a $3.3 million grant, while Denver utilized a slew of Private Activity Bonds, federal and state historic tax credits, and several loans from banks and investment firms. “Denver is proud to be a partner on this affordable housing project and historic restoration, one that aims to house families in our community and keep them housed,” Mayor Hancock said in a statement. “We are thrilled to be working with our partners to ensure these units are kept affordable for Denver families for decades to come.” Pancratia Hall is named after Mother Pancratia Bonfils, a nun educated by the Sisters of Loretto and founder of the Loretto Heights Academy, which was a Catholic boarding school for women. 6 DENVER VOICE December 2020 The Academy, built in 1889, predates Denver’s chartering. Pancratia Hall was constructed in 1929 with its red sandstone bell tower that has served as a landmark for Southwest Denver. During World War I, the campus was a training grounds for Colorado soldiers. In 1918, the Academy was a degreeattaining institution for women. This was two years before the passage of the 19th Amendment guaranteed women’s suffrage. Over its 120-plus year history, the building has been part of several educational institutions. After the Academy closed in 1941 due to declining enrollment, it served as dormitories and classrooms for Loretto Heights College. In 1988, the college was sold to Teikyo University, which operated Colorado Heights College for 29 years before selling it to Westside Investment Partners, Inc., in 2018 for $16.5 million. After the sale of the campus, Denver City Council rushed to pause development on the site until a land use plan could be developed. This effort resulted in City Council adopting the Loretto Heights Small Plan in 2019, one which incorporated 100 percent of the community comments into the final document. Many of the comments concerned keeping the Loretto Heights history alive for future generations. “It turned anxiety over potential loss into excitement for a lively, welcoming addition to our part of town where new neighbors of all means and cultures could prosper, the community could gather together with them, the campus buildings could be restored and re-used, and the rich legacy of the Spirit of Loretto could be preserved,” Councilman Kevin Flynn (District 2) said in a statement. ■ I PANCRATIA HALL TO BRING 72 AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS TO LORETTO HEIGHTS Got these cards? Get more. Get more benefits than you’re currently getting from Original Medicare with a UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete® (HMO D-SNP) plan. It combines your doctor, hospital and prescription drug coverage into one plan — for a $0 plan premium. Additional benefits may include: Dental Coverage $2,000 toward dental services. Health Products Card™ Up to $680 loaded onto your card to buy health products you may need. Fitness Benefit A fitness program for body and mind with access to participating gym and fitness centers at no extra cost. Transportation Assistance Up to 24 one-way rides every year. Call today to enroll or get answers to your questions. Debbie Beaudry Licensed Sales Agent 303-881-9362, TTY 711 b00a5c@hotmail.com UHCCommunityPlan.com/CO Participation in the Renew Active™ program is voluntary. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine. Renew Active includes standard fitness membership. Equipment, classes, personalized fitness plans, and events may vary by location. Certain services, classes and events are provided by affiliates of UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or other third parties not affiliated with UnitedHealthcare. Participation in AARP® Staying Sharp and the Fitbit® Community for Renew Active is subject to your acceptance of their respective terms and policies. UnitedHealthcare is not responsible for the services or information provided by third parties. The information provided through these services is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor. The Renew Active program varies by plan/area. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Participation in the Renew Active™ by UnitedHealthcare program is voluntary. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine. Equipment and classes may vary by location. Services, including equipment, classes, personalized fitness plans provided by fitness centers, and brain activities provided by BrainHQ, are provided by third parties not affiliated with UnitedHealthcare. UnitedHealthcare does not endorse and is not responsible for the services or information provided by this program. Availability of the Renew Active™ program varies by plan/area. Y0066_190904_083721_M December 2020 DENVER VOICE 7 20CST20874_H0624-001-000

LOCAL STORY ALAN BROOKS: USING ALLEGORY TO EXPLORE RACISM BY GILES CLASEN R. ALAN BROOKS has always been creative and tried to find a way to lace that creativity into his life. A few years ago, he decided to change direction and make his artistic endeavors into a career. He stopped selling health insurance and started writing comics. In 2017, Brooks published his first graphic novel, the “Burning Metronome,” and just released his second book, “Anguish Garden,” in November of 2020. Both books use allegory to explore systemic oppression. Brooks also is an associate professor of writing at Regis University and writes a comic for The Colorado Sun news site. He also presented at the TEDxMileHigh Rise event in August 2020. The following was edited for clarity and length. How has art impacted social movements today? Oppression works best when the people who are oppressed don’t get a chance to speak up about it, so people can deny it. Art has always played a role in inspiring a revolution. There’s a reason that dictators and despots work so desperately to censor it. They recognize the power in it. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN 8 DENVER VOICE December 2020 LOCAL STORY The common person may ask, “Is art silly? Does it have a purpose?” But people in power, like Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s, believed art had power. He wouldn’t have been doing what he did to the entertainment industry, otherwise. It’s been interesting to watch this year. I don’t know why George Floyd’s murder mattered more than, say, Philando Castile’s, or other unarmed Black men who’ve been murdered. It seems like it’s a confluence of events that suddenly made people care about it in a different way. There was a litany of these kinds of videos for as long as people had videos on their phones. Or all the way back to the Rodney King beating in the 90s. In this particular case, you had George Floyd. You had Breonna Taylor. You had the brother walking through Central Park where the woman threatened to call the police, saying she was being attacked by Christian Cooper, a Black man in New York. People have had to sit home during the pandemic. Maybe without the distractions of life, they had time to actually look at the ugliness of what’s being done. That doesn’t answer [the] question about how art fits into it. But it goes to why it’s hard for me to identify it. This movement has been present virtually my entire life. It’s cool that it’s showing up on other people’s radar, really. But it’s hard to identify why. There has been plenty of art about police brutality, including my book, “The Burning Metronome.” [Police brutality] shows up in “Lovecraft Country,” the HBO show, in the first episode. It’s continuous. I guess because I’m so immersed in it and I see the art about it all the time, it’s hard for me to say, “Oh, there’s something this year that makes it different.” Even in [1999], there was Amadou Diallo. He pulled out his wallet to show his ID, and police shot at him, I think it was like, 41 times. That was in New York. All these rappers put out a special hip hop project talking about Diallo’s murder at the hands of the police. Seriously, all my life this has been a thing and there’s been art about it. I believe 100 percent that art helps to advance a cause. I think art can help people see through the perspective of a different group. Art does help people see from [the oppressed person’s] perspective. My difficulty is in saying what’s different about right now. I feel like maybe, finally, the people who were not affected by police violence had to sit down and pay attention. And that’s never happened in my lifetime. So, I think the fact that the art is there and that it exists is beneficial for the people who did not have to have this issue right up in their face the whole time. They had a chance, and finally, they had to listen. I don’t feel like there’s a new artistic movement about it so much as there’s a new awareness about the issues and the art that is pushing the issue to the forefront. Can art make a difference in today’s world? In the late 1890s, Tolstoy wrote his book, “The Kingdom of God Is Within You,” which was about being nonviolent. About 30 years later, Gandhi said that book was one of the top three influences of his life. Tolstoy created art that inspired Gandhi, who led a movement that changed the world. Then, Gandhi inspired Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. What if Tolstoy had never written his book? Would the Civil Rights Movement in America be different? Would it have happened at all? It’s hard to say, but it’s clear how one book had an impact. The point I made earlier about dictators working hard to censor art is one of the greatest indications of the power of art to influence. Why would people in power waste the energy? CREDIT: GILES CLASEN I think about Stalin and Hitler. They both worked hard to censor artists, they would burn books and things. Those people had no doubt about the power of art to influence social change. What role can allegory play in helping individuals see a story differently? When it comes to change, I think people feel like they’re being blamed. Fingers pointed at them, like, “You need to do X.” That’s challenging to anyone’s ego. When you can take that same principle and place it into a different context, then, suddenly, people aren’t as defensive. I think people can understand right and wrong in a different way when it’s put into allegory. In the Old Testament, Nathan the prophet told David about a shepherd and his sheep and all that, and David was like, “Who is this unrighteous person?” The prophet was like, “It’s you!” It’s not so clearly an indictment of what [people] are doing. After they’ve absorbed the message, they can think about how it applies to their own life. Sometimes that has good effects. All of these isms — racism, sexism, etc., — come from either a failure or a refusal to see the humanity of the other party. For people who fail to see the humanity of someone else, art is really powerful at communicating that humanity. As soon as you start to connect to humanity, [you can see] this is another human who is negatively impacted by something I’m doing or something I believe in. Art is really good at connecting humanity that goes beyond a list of facts or demographics. What must artists do to keep connecting us to one another’s humanity? I’ve been teaching a seminar called Overcoming Creative Fear. There are so many people I know who are good people and legitimately talented in a variety of areas, be it writing, drawing, or singing, or whatever. But they’re so terrified of finishing something, at the possibility of failing or succeeding, or of someone being mean to them on the internet. The state of the world right now adds to that anxiety for a lot of people. To any creative person reading this, if there’s any time for your voice to be heard, that time is now. I think about all the hateful people who don’t have any problems speaking up. Nazis aren’t having a problem speaking up right now. If they’re not afraid to say crazy stuff, then I really need people who have a sense of compassion and righteousness to take this time and speak up, too; whether it’s directly or through their art. This is the time we need to have it happen. ■ December 2020 DENVER VOICE 9

DONORS & LOCAL NEWS DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation The NextFifty Initiative Help Colorado Now $10,000+ John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund The Christian Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Community Foundation of Boulder County Jerry Conover Meek-Cuneo Family Fund $1,000-$4,999 Josh Kauer Bright Funds Network for Good Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Arc Thrift Stores Jeremy Anderson City Side Remodeling Matthew Rezek Schuster Family Foundation Russell Peterson PEN America Craig & Teresa Solomon Signs by Timorrow Jim Ashe Wynkoop Brewery George Lichter Family Foundation Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Kauer Construction & Design Gaetanos Restaurant Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Gaelina Tesfaye Donald Weaver Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Comedy Works Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi Jill Haug Caring Connection Alistair Davidson Paul Manoogian Kroger Grocery Ridley McGreevy & Winocur Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Keyrenter Property Management Denver Gaspar Terrana 10x Business Consultants, Inc. Travis & Margaret Ramp Elizabeth A. Mitchell Stephen Saul Leigh Bingham and Chris Forgham James Stegman William Thorland Betty & Warren Kuehner Zephyr Wilkins Celestina Pacheco ACM LLP Cuneo Law Firm Paul Hoffman Jim and Nancy Thomas Peggy Mihelich Susan B. Jones 10 DENVER VOICE December 2020 DENVER AIMS FOR ECONOMIC REBOUND BY DOUG HRDLICKA IN 2019, the Denver Department of Finance recognized signs in short-term and long-term bonds that indicated a recession. Other markers and inconsistencies also forecasted a bust, so the City planned a conservative 2020 budget for good measure. Indeed, February 2020 marked the end of the longest economic expansion in Denver’s history. In March, Denver saw the largest decline in projected revenues in a single period since 1933. The economic fallout has left Denver in a crisis, but a rebound is sure, and the City plans to come back with equity at the forefront. “The thing about trying to anticipate and react in February is a little difficult because you don’t really know that you’re in a recession until six months after you’re already in it,” said Director of the Office of Economic Development Eric Hiraga. “It’s something that we had closely monitored. Then COVID hit, and it was just the nail in the coffin,” Statewide restrictions pushed unemployment to 5.2 percent in March, and in April it more than doubled. “The US economy lost 22.2 million jobs in a two-month period. So, if you look at our statistics since April when we spiked at 13.4 percent, we’ve almost recovered half of that in September, at 7.4 percent,” said Hiraga. Denver lost $221 million in projected revenue. The City quickly reached out to all its departments and asked them to cut 3 percent from their budgets, then 7 percent, and is now asking for 10 percent going into 2021. City employees were asked to work from home and were given mandatory furlough days, with higher-paid employees taking more days. These are not sweeping cuts, though. The Department of Health and the Department of Housing and Urban Development need sustained or additional revenue to operate at the demand COVID has yielded. Also, some departments operate with 90 percent or more staff, and the City doesn’t want to add to the unemployment crisis. The first cuts did save on ancillary costs like utility and travel. But the City still needed to pull from its reserves and its Special Revenue Fund — a 2 percent contingency reserve for city emergencies — to cover some of the costs to operate and provide emergency services related to public health. A portion of that money was covered by FEMA as part of a reimbursement program. The money being reimbursed was used specifically for PPE gear and shelter initiatives. “Those federal dollars have allowed us to recoup money that the City has spent responding to the emergency, but they don’t allow for revenue replacement,” said City and County of Denver’s Chief Financial Officer Brendan Hanlon. But thinning government spending and using reserve funds is only a temporary solution. One of the biggest factors when planning for a rebound after a pandemic is curbing consumer behavior. “This is a public health crisis that has led to a reduction of public activity, and we’re just not sure how it’s going to rebound,” said Hanlon. The service industry has undoubtedly suffered the brunt of the pandemic, with shutdowns and restricted capacity immediately impacting businesses. But it is the consumer that will ultimately decide the longevity of that impact. “If we can give people that financial support to get them through this difficult time, including the expansion of unemployment benefits, it will help people get through this level of economic uncertainty,” said Hanlon. The last period of comparable economic strife was during the Great Recession of 2008. At the time, the approach to recovery was to build the economy first. But over the five years it took to boom, people were sidelined from the success as an unintended consequence. This time around, Mayor Hancock has in his arsenal the Division of Social Equity and Innovation to consult on how to cut the budget so people who live in the throes of economic strife aren’t further impacted. “You have to look at it in tandem, as a nexus. Both of these forces are interconnected, and if we tease those out, we are doing ourselves a disservice. Our economy is built to serve our people, and our people are part of our economy; they’re interconnected, and we have to make sure both of those things work,” said Kim Desmond, director of the Office of Social Equity and Innovation. Through conversations about equity for all marginalized people, the City has discovered that certain revenue streams like property tax and court costs disproportionately affect low-income groups. “When we look at different outcomes across all different areas, the goal is to make sure there is no racial or ethnic disparity in all the different systems that we see, like health, like education, and like housing,” said Desmond. The service industry suffers more, compared to the tech and financial industries, and a significant number of its employees are minorities. During the pandemic, these are the groups that have historically been most disadvantaged and are paying the price. “If you look at unemployment statistics, you will see that the hospitality sector, restaurants and hotels, the retail sector, and some of the other sectors where you see a disproportionate number of Black and Hispanic workers, are the vulnerable jobs that are being lost the most right now,” said Hiraga. In addition to the equity group, Denver applied to be part of a multi-city project headed by Bloomberg Philanthropies to assist in budgeting equitably. “Multiple cities are put together to share experiences around financial health and sustainability, but also how to bake equity into your financial decision-making process. That is in both how you spend your money and also the origins of revenue,” said Hanlon. The Bloomberg project has accepted 30 cities as participants. City leaders will meet to collaborate toward an economy that serves their entire populations. “What I’m looking forward to is pilfering good ideas. I think we’ve made a lot of strides here in Denver, especially this budget year,” said Hanlon. What happens next is unknown. A third wave of the pandemic could mean more shutdowns and additional economic strain. But a vaccine could put to rest this dark period. “From my side of the shop, I feel like it’s about trying to make sure we’re doing what we need to do financially to maintain core services in the city and making sure we have a quality of life here in Denver that people and businesses are attracted to,” said Hanlon. ■ EVENTS COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with deardenver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. CARNE Y ARENA (VIRTUALLY PRESENT, PHYSICALLY INVISIBLE) Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s conceptual virtual reality installation explores the human condition of immigrants and refugees. Based on true accounts, the lines between subject and bystander are blurred and bound together, as participants navigate through a vast space and live a fragment of the refugees’ personal journeys. WHEN: Dec 1 – Jan 30; times vary COST: $35 - $55. Tickets must be purchased online. WHERE: The Hangar at Stanley – 2501 N. Dallas St. MORE INFO: denvercenter.org SHIKI DREAMS Shiki Dreams is a multi-sensory immersive art experience that combines traditional art forms with cutting edge technology to create a dreamlike universe. While this journey is designed for adults, it also appeals to children as young as 3-years old. WHEN: Dec 3 – Dec 31, Thursdays – Sundays at various times. COST: $14 WHERE: 2219 E. 21st Ave. MORE INFO: facebook.com/Prismajic DECEMBER DELIGHTS Don your most festive snowsuit and enjoy December Delights, a winter spectacular that features seasonal food and bevvies, twinkling lights, ice skating, crafts, and a winter scavenger hunt. WHEN: Dec 4 – Dec 27, Fridays – Sundays from 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. COST: $10 - 19; children 6 and under are free WHERE: Four Mile Historic Park – 715 S. Forest St. MORE INFO: facebook.com/FourMileHistoricPark THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE HOLIDAY MARKET Shop local and stay safe at this second annual holiday bazaar. Support local artisans while shopping holiday gifts, wreathes, beauty products, jewelry, and more. WHEN: Dec 4 & Dec 5, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. COST: Admission is free, but you must reserve a timed ticket in advance. WHERE: 1115 Acoma St. MORE INFO: facebook.com/goldentrianglefm FULL MOON YOGA NIDRA Relax, reset, and balance the nervous system with a guided yoga nidra session on the last full moon of 2020. WHEN: Dec 29, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. COST: $8 WHERE: Online MORE INFO: facebook.com/SacredGroveHealing SANTA RESPONDS BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE, VOICE VENDOR I TEND TO BE A WORRIER. Not for myself, for other people – family, friends, or people in the news. So, as Halloween went by, my thoughts turned to Christmas. I started to worry about Santa, Mrs. Claus, and all of the elves, and what was going on at the North pole. So I sent an email to my favorite friend. This is what he wrote in reply: Dear Brian, Thank you for your concern. Covid-19 has changed things here. Like everyone else, we are taking all the steps to stay healthy, wearing our masks, and doing social distancing. That is really hard on the elves. They are very social and love to hug and pat each other on the back. We have cloth screens between their workplaces. So to cheer their friends up, they sing to each other. When we first heard about the sickness, we never considered a shutdown. Some elves have gotten sick, but all of those who were, have gotten better. We are working hard to keep making Christmas presents. We are a little behind schedule, but Christmas will go on as scheduled. We haven’t had much time to make the extras we usually give to the less fortunate. They need more this year than in the past. We are hoping to catch up. We love to watch our Christmas tree lights grow brighter as children open their presents and smile. It is how we know that we have succeeded in our year’s worth of work. There is a way for everyone to help this Christmas. Along with the treats you leave for me and the reindeer, some hand sanitizer would be nice. So, I will be delivering on Christmas. Yes, Brian, we are so happy to say that Christmas will happen, and this year will be no different. Just a little more special. Again, thanks for your concern and your letter. I wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Your friend, Santa Claus VOICES DARK OF OUR COMMUNITY BY ED CURLEE, HARD TIMES CONTRIBUTOR In my aloneness I find you Though we live And laugh And love as two It’s from deep within the silence we are one As Snow blanket woods melting downstream, The frozen quiet The dark running in us The Hard Times writing workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. This workshop is open to all members of the public—especially those experiencing homelessness. December 2020 DENVER VOICE 11

GIVE where you Dec 8th LIVE COLORADO GIVES DAY DONATE TO and make your donation go further /DENVERVOICE YES, I WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT THE DENVER VOICE! ☐ JOIN OUR TIME TO THRIVE CIRCLE $150 ☐ $500 ☐ $250 ☐ $100 ☐ GIVING FORM NAME: ADDRESS: EMAIL: PLEASE MAIL DONATIONS TO: THE DENVER VOICE / PO BOX 1931 / DENVER CO 80201 PHONE: ADD TO EMAIL LIST? YES/NO BY CHECKING AN AMOUNT ABOVE, you pledge to give to the VOICE. TO SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC MONTHLY GIVING, go to denvervoice.org. THE DENVER VOICE RECEIVES 50¢ FOR THIS PAPER. WE DEPEND ON YOU FOR THE REST. ON THE DENVER VOICE IS A 501(C)3 AND ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE SURVIVING COVID ON THE NA T AJO RESERVTION LIFE WAS DIFFICULT ENOUGH FOR THE NAAJO PEOPLE. THEN COVID-19 HIT PAGE 8 STATE HOUSING POLICY DURING PANDEMIC SCORES LOW RESEARCHERS GIVE LOW GRADE FOR STATE’S FAILURE TO AID THOSE FACING EVICTION. PAGE 4 RESTORING VOTING RIGHTS TO FLORIDA’S EX-FELONS FORMER LAWYER TAKES CAREER BREAK TO REGAIN VOTING RIGHTS FOR EX-FELONS. PAGE 10 NEW BILL ADDRESSES FOOD INSTABILITY SINCE THE PANDEMIC, ONE IN THREE COLORADANS FACES FOOD INSTABILITY. PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 5, 11 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 NOVEMBER 2020 | Vol.25 Issue 11 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: JOYCE DALE SITS IN THE KITCHEN OF HER 50-YEAR-OLD HOUSE. DALE HAD A STROKE SIX YEARS AGO AND HAS BEEN IN A WHEELCHAIR SINCE. HER HOME HAS BEEN IN DISREPAIR FOR DECADES BECAUSE OF THE BENNET FREEZE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR WHEN VENDORS VISIT the Denver VOICE office to pick up their papers, either they will tell me, or I will overhear them telling someone else about someone they met or conversations they had while vending the VOICE. Frequently, when someone stops long enough to focus on what the vendor is telling them about the VOICE and suggests a $2 donation in return for a copy of the paper, the passer-by will ask something like, “Why should I give you $2 for that paper?” Hearing vendor Raelene Johnson talk about her latest encounter with someone who asked why the paper was worth $2 was what prompted the Ask a Vendor question for this issue. (For those who are not familiar with how the process works, Denver VOICE vendors purchase each of their papers for 50 cents. Anything they receive over that amount is theirs to keep, so for the suggested donation amount of $2, the vendor keeps $1.50.) Sometimes, a vendor’s response to the question in Ask a Vendor is just a few words. Other times, it is a long answer woven around an experience, but before they answer, every one of the vendors takes time to think about the question. If, as you read this or some future issue of the VOICE, you wonder how the vendors might react to or think about a situation, I hope you will take a minute to send an email to editor@denvervoice.org and let me know. That way, we can pose that question to our vendors. Not only does this give the Denver VOICE community a chance to get to know the vendors better and learn more about the difference a donation makes to a vendor, but it also gives the vendors another opportunity for their voices to be heard. ■ NOVEMBER CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @OCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Andrew Klooster GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kate Marshall Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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 Paula Bard Rea Brown Giles Clasen Jerome Cotton Robert Davis Shaleen Vanese Figueroa Raelene Johnson Jerry Mullenix Benjamin Eric Nelson Janis Olson BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins 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 1600 Downing St., Ste. 230, Denver, CO 80218 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. OFFICE HOURS: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE November 2020 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY INTRODUCING OUR NEW PROGRAM COORDINATOR, ANDREW KLOOSTER LAST MONTH, we introduced Denver VOICE readers to our new program coordinator, Andrew Klooster. Klooster recently relocated to Denver from Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked for the Doan Brook Watershed Partnership. Kooster has a B.A. in anthropology and sustainability from the University of Michigan and an M.S. in natural resources and environment with a focus on environmental justice from the University of Michigan School of Natural Resources and Environment. The timing of Klooster’s arrival at the Denver VOICE could not have been better for the organization. With new safety and social distancing protocols in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the VOICE and its vendors have had to make a number of adjustments. From the moment he arrived, Klooster has focused on getting to know the vendors, catching up on paperwork, moving forward with best practices, and identifying areas in need of improvement. As program coordinator for the VOICE, Klooster oversees the Peer Navigation Program and works closely with Denver VOICE vendors to meet our mission of providing individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty a chance to take their first steps towards a more stable life. ■ OUR Streets: MARK BY PAULA BARD “I’M 44, I DID EIGHT YEARS in the United States Marine Corps, 2000-2008. Then, after that, I became a New Mexico State Police officer. I came from New Mexico, I was living in Longmont, me and my wife. She passed away on me. She had a pacemaker. She was living on life support. I gave up on her, I lost her. I couldn’t take it no more. So, I left Longmont. That’s how I ended up down here. This was October 14, last year, 9:02 a.m. Every day after work, I went down to the hospital just to be next to her, hold her hand, you know, stuff like that. I been through a lot, man. I lost my brother, I lost my gramma, I lost my niece. There are a lot of uncles and aunties I lost. Everything went downhill ever since I lost my wife. So, I am working on picking myself up right now. But at the same time, it’s not working. Cuz of all this peer pressure that’s around me. You know what I mean? I mean, at some point, I’ve got to think about my health, too. It’s a main issue. A lot of people told me a lot of things to do, different ways. But it’s up to me. I am a Navajo, Diné, full blood.” ■ Author’s Note: In the fall of 2015, just ahead of Colorado’s winter, Denver sent the full force of its police department and SWAT team to destroy five tiny homes that people “living without homes” had built north of downtown. Something in me snapped: Denver is behaving like a bully! Denver has more than 6,000 people without homes, and more than 3,000 trying to survive on its streets. It is an ugly business. In 2012, Denver passed an urban-camping ban making it illegal for the homeless to protect themselves with “any form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.” Violations can bring a $999 fine or a year in jail. I began walking those streets where the homeless are trying to survive, photographing the faces and collecting the stories of those my city has abandoned. So began OUR Streets – stories of Denver’s unhoused residents. CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. November 2020 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS ASK A VENDOR Because the pandemic has affected vendors differently, we hope to give all of our vendors a chance to tell their stories. Some are vendors we’re hearing from for the first time since we started printing again. When someone asks, “Why should I donate $2 for the paper?” what do you tell them? Q A REA BROWN Who are we kidding? Something’s missing far from social distancing and face covering. Everyone seems to sound a death knell as they spray paint on the wall. Although many try to stay calm and stand tall, the hushed whispers call, screaming, “It’s all gonna fall.” Good thing we can trust the law, or, should I say, can we trust the law? After all, we saw and see in real life and TV or PC, the police policing harshly is starting to be a recurring news theme. Protesting, grouping and burning, in the midst of campaigning, COVID, and burning. Yet, I stand under the economy, not returning, learning how to survive with low or no earnings, trying my best to evade germing. But I have a paper to vend with my sanitized hand. So, what I would say to the woman or man who asks why should they give $2? What I can say is one good deed is multiplied in three different ways, 12 times a year, and that to me, is an awfully small price to pay. RAELENE JOHNSON This paper is the best thing that ever happened for homeless people. The VOICE doesn’t care if you’re a convicted felon, or have no education, no job history or references. I became a vendor in Jan of 08. I’d been homeless and living under the Arapahoe Bridge in Boulder. The VOICE gave me a chance to be self-employed. By January of 09, I was the top female VOICE vendor, and boy, did that give me pride. [Vending] the newspaper has given me self-esteem. It gives people an opportunity, and it’s up to you what you do with that. The paper has allowed me to become who I was meant to be, and now, 13 years later, I have my own home, my own car. I’m even on the board and treated as a valued member of the organization. So, your $2 donation empowers and impacts a vendor’s life. It gives them an opportunity for a home, and maybe a vendor eventually leaves the paper, but while they’re vending, it gives them money until they find what they really want to do. Or someone like me, who can’t get a job anywhere else, can work here as long as they want to. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ASK? We would like to engage more Denver VOICE vendors and readers. If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE November 2020 EXPERTS GIVE COLORADO’S COVID-19 HOUSING POLICY HALF-STAR REVIEW BY ROBERT DAVIS A RECENT REVIEW of state COVID-19 housing policies by Eviction Lab, a team of housing and poverty researchers at Princeton University, rated Colorado’s response a half-star out of five for failing to provide basic protections and assistance programs for those facing eviction because of the pandemic. Colorado’s half-star rating was good enough for an 18thplace finish in Eviction Lab’s 50-state COVID-19 Housing Policy Scorecard report. Massachusetts earned first-place honors with a score of 4.15. The report was compiled in consultation with state housing and homelessness lawyers and advocates, along with tenant groups and public health experts from around the country. The data is current as of September 12. Each state was scored after researchers analyzed state governor emergency declarations, state legislation, and court orders. They focused on state prohibitions on initiating evictions, suspension of court procedures, enforcement of eviction orders, short-term assistance, and tenancy preservation measures. According to Eviction Lab’s website, the two categories that were most influential in a state’s review were “initiation” (40 percent) and “tenancy preservation measures” (20 percent). As for initiation protections, Governor Polis signed an order on June 13 allowing landlords to begin evictions proceedings against tenants who are behind on their rent. On the other side, Colorado law offers its nearly two million renters scant protections. Landlords are allowed to initiate evictions for nonpayment after providing the tenant a 30day notice, can evict tenants who have experienced financial hardship caused by the pandemic, and can evict tenants for non-emergency reasons. Colorado has just as few tenant preservation measures, according to Eviction Lab. State law allows landlords to raise rents during the pandemic and does not guarantee legal representation for tenants who face eviction. Instead, courts rely on eviction defense fund grants from the General Assembly to fund legal defenses. In 2020, the lawmakers appropriated $350,000 to the Eviction Legal Defense Fund. In September, the CDC published a rule in the Federal Register placing a nationwide moratorium on evictions through the end of the year. However, the rule didn’t reach all renters and only covered renters in federal housing. Absent local protections, as many as 40 million people could have been at risk for eviction, according to CDC estimates. The moratorium had three goals: keep people in their homes and out of congregate housing, stop the increase of people experiencing homelessness, and inspire states to pass their own eviction protections. Had eviction been allowed to proceed, it could contribute to an increase in homelessness, a class of people the CDC says are a high-risk population. “It may be more difficult for these persons to consistently access the necessary resources in order to adhere to public health recommendations to prevent COVID-19. For instance, it may not be possible to avoid certain congregate settings such as homeless shelters, or easily access facilities to engage in handwashing with soap and water,” the moratorium says. While housing advocates are hopeful Colorado lawmakers will step in and pass a moratorium similar to the CDC’s, they are also preparing for the alternative. Colorado Village Collaborative (CVC) recently debuted its model temporary safe outdoor space, a sanctioned campsite that would provide homeless residents basic services and connect them with employment options and treatment programs. Some of the services offered would include food, clean drinking water, handwashing stations, laundry, and shower units. CVC plans to provide residents with tents, self-care baskets with hygienic products, and weather-proof storage containers that they can take with them upon departure. ABOUT EVICTION LAB Eviction Lab was founded by Matthew Desmond, who began studying poverty, housing, and eviction in 2008. Through his research, Desmond discovered that eviction is often the cause, not a symptom, of poverty. His work was summarized in the book Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City (2016). He currently serves as the Maurice P. During Professor of Sociology at Princeton University. According to its website, Eviction Lab receives funding from the Gates, JPB, and Ford Foundations, as well as the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. Eviction Lab hosts nationwide eviction data on its website to provide educators, policymakers, nonprofit organizers, and communities statistically-driven understanding of eviction at a local level. If you want to know more, visit Eviction Lab’s website: https://evictionlab.org/ ■ NEW REPORT FINDS METRO DENVER’S HOMELESS DISPROPORTIONATELY BLACK, INDIGENOUS, AND PEOPLE OF COLOR BY ROBERT DAVIS BLACK, INDIGENOUS, and people of color experience homelessness at significantly higher rates than their white counterparts in the Denver metro area, a new report by the Metro Denver Housing Initiative (MDHI) concluded. The report synthesized information from the sevencounty body and federal data from the Point in Time Count, the Homelessness Management Information System, The Vulnerability Index, and the number of students identified by schools as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act. “For the first time, we have real-time data on how many people are seeking support as a result of homelessness,” Matt Meyer, executive director of MDHI, said in a statement. “While there are variances between data sets, one thing is consistent – racial inequity.” The report argues against the stereotypical narrative that homelessness is often caused by drug abuse and mental health issues. Instead, the report posits high housing costs, loss of work, and strained relationships with family are the primary causes. At $471,084, average home values in Denver are more than twice the national average of $231,000, according to data from Zillow. Since last year, home values have grown 3.3 percent and are predicted to grow another 4.4 percent by 2022. Even though the secretary of state’s office reported Colorado’s wage growth outpaced national wage growth in 2019, the Colorado Fiscal Institute (CFI) found this growth was due largely to the detriment of Colorado’s Black, Indigenous, and people of color because it raised the cost of living and helped usher low-wage jobs out of the state. Currently, a minimum-wage worker in Colorado would need to work 88 hours per week to afford a market-rate twobedroom apartment, the report found. In Denver specifically, LOCAL NEWS / IN YOUR OWN WORDS the same worker would need to log 100 hours per week to afford the same home. Black, Indigenous, and people of color are more likely than their white counterparts to work minimum-wage jobs, jobs Colorado has shed faster than the national average since 2016, CFI found. This decline is due to the state’s historic low unemployment and rising minimum wage, both of which contribute to the prevalence of part-time employment in lowwage jobs. CFI found 56 percent of low-wage workers work 30 hours per week. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Black people have been unemployed twice as frequently as white people since the COVID pandemic began in March. However, a report by Colorado Public Radio found they only represent 7.5 percent of unemployment claims filed during that timeframe. BLS did not report on indigenous populations. “We have yet to see the full impact of the pandemic,” Jamie Rife, director of communications and development at MDHI, said in a statement. “We’re nearing a cliff on evictions. Once the moratoriums expire at the end of the year, we’ll see the full impact of households that have fallen months behind on rent, right as the winter months are at their worst.” The report argues part of the reason the metro area struggles with responding to homelessness is that they do not operate under a consistent definition of the problem. Instead, different agencies define homelessness based on what part of the homeless experience they are meant to serve, thus leading to inconsistencies in data collection and racial reporting. Another reason is that city planners in the separate counties update their zoning codes without considering the impact of those changes on neighboring jurisdictions. So, when jurisdictions pass restrictive zoning codes that decrease housing affordability, the impacts ripple throughout the metro area. The report also mentions ways counties and cities can begin making lasting impacts on homelessness, like addressing inequalities in criminal justice, healthcare, and allowing those who are currently experiencing homelessness to help craft responses to homelessness. “As a community, we must strive for racially equitable response. This begins by outcomes in our homelessness recognizing this inequity, measuring this disproportionality at a population level, and striving to ensure an equitable response with the ultimate goal of eliminating overrepresentation of any one population,” it reads. ■ MY STORY BY JERRY MULLENIX, VOICE VENDOR MY STORY BEGINS IN IDAHO. I am homeless, and I have been moving around from state to state. Now I am here, and I have been fighting for the rights of the homeless in the nation. I am now in the great state of Colorado. I have bought three tents and have been living out on the Platte River for almost a year. Then I bought a camper, and it caught fire. I was burnt in it. As soon as it went up, I was out of it. The police took it to the pound yard, and I went to the hospital for minor burns to my skin, face, hands and arm. I went back to the hospital for blood poisoning, and they put me on antibiotics to get rid of it. ■ WHEN I SEE YOU BY JEROME COTTON, VOICE VENDOR When I see you standing and needing, I feel a pain inside, my heart is bleeding. When I see you walking until your shoes are worn, I do not judge, I can only mourn. When I see your sign that reads “Anything helps,” I want to give, but I also have no money. When I see the tent where you live, I want to tell you a better day is coming. When I lay my head to sleep, I see you there. My heart for you, it weeps. When I see you there, I am praying for you, don’t forget I care. ■ NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Bottled water, non-perishable snacks Hand-warmers, toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Paper products for the office 1” notebooks NEXT MONTH: WRAPPING PAPER ISSUE! GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Refurbished laptops or desktop computers Heavy jackets Scarves VOICE vendors have been busy coming up with wrapping paper designs for our December issue. Keep your eye out next month for the 2020 creations, and use them to wrap your holiday gifts! Winter hats Gloves Backpacks Drop-offs are accepted Monday–Friday, 9–12 p.m.,or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. AUTUMN WISH LIST DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS November 2020 DENVER VOICE 5 2019 ART BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSCE V NE JOHNSON ON VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON 2019 ART BY VOICE VENDOR BRIAN AUGUSTINE VOIC VENDOR BRIAN AUCE V AUGUS GUS USTINE 2019 AR 019 ART BY VOICE VENDOR REA BROWNE V

COMMUNITY PROFILE CREDIT: PAULA BARD FOOD PANTRY BILL OFFERS ONE SOLUTION FOR FOOD INSTABILITY BY PAULA BARD 6 DENVER VOICE November 2020 “ONCE COVID HAPPENED, WHAT REALLY MATTERED WAS HELPING PEOPLE IMMEDIATELY.” –Colorado State Representative Lisa Cutter STATE REPRESENTATIVE LISA CUTTER, who is finishing her first term representing House District 25 in Jefferson County, recently explained one of the bills she sponsored during the 2020 legislative session. “We originated the Food Pantry Bill in the House,” said Cutter. “It happened very quickly at the end of the legislative session. [State Representative] Daneya Esgar and I worked on it with Hunger Free Colorado. People were eager to support it.” According to the text of Food Pantry Bill, nearly one in three Coloradans report being concerned about the costs of food since the coronavirus pandemic hit. Passed in May, the grant program now connects emergency food providers around the state with Colorado-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat products from local farms. For many of Colorado’s small farmers, this program is an opportunity to shore up their business following coronavirus-related revenue losses. The Bill’s seed was planted when Hunger Free Colorado surveyed food pantry clients on the impact of the coronavirus. Eighty-three percent of pantry clients wanted more produce, meat, and dairy products during their visits. Jason Harrison, food pantry network manager, recalled, “We worked with our pantry partners and members of the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) to create a program that would provide pantry clients with those critical resources while simultaneously supporting our local agriculture communities.” Through the CARES Act, Colorado received almost $1.7 billion in federal coronavirus aid, signed into law on March 27. Over half of this money was directed to education, but the Colorado Proud and Food Pantries Act, HB20-1422, was awarded $500k in May from this CARES Act money. Governor Polis issued an executive order on October 9, allocating another $100k. COMMUNITY PROFILE FOOD PANTRIES ON THE FRONT LINES OF THE PANDEMIC BY PAULA BARD IN THE MOUNTAINS of Jefferson County, tucked up behind what long-time area residents call the “old Safeway” (as distinguished from the “new Safeway” across the highway), sits a large, rambling building called the Mountain Resource Center of Conifer. Just off of Highway 285, it offers an abundance of services to mountain folks, covering anything from emergency financial assistance to boxes of food. They even offer cooking classes. The pantry also offers support services to veterans, and parents can enroll their children in the Resource Center’s early childhood classes. Community advocates hand out tents and sleeping bags. Supporters can purchase hand-made bowls at the yearly fundraiser. Between March and June, Food Pantry Coordinator, Ingrid Wilson saw a 145 percent increase in food needs over what they distributed in 2019. They currently serve 250-400 families a month, 50 food boxes a day, Monday through Thursday. “It’s a drive-through right now, and we will have to adjust in the winter,” Wilson explained. Winter hits hard in Conifer; their drive-through setup will indeed become treacherous, if not impossible. Wilson sends a driver down to Food Bank of the Rockies every Monday to Thursday. “We pick up boxes of food and supplies. We get a bunch of dry goods and a bunch of fresh goods. It ebbs and flows,” said Wilson. “We try for fresh goods, but it just depends on what they’ve got. We pick up anything else that looks good — like we got corn on the cob for people. Last week, we got deodorant and diapers, baby supplies, toilet paper, toothpaste.” The mountain community contributes to this effort generously. As Wilson explained, “For grocery rescue up here in Conifer, we go to Starbucks, Safeway, Natural Grocers, King Soopers, and the Kum and Go. Last year, we rescued nearly 20,000 pounds of food.” The food pantry has two full-time staff members, Wilson and Shellie Logan McKeown, who organize this extensive, bustling, and efficient food transfer. Regular volunteers drive the food up from Denver. One or two extra volunteers come in each day to help fill boxes, organize the food, and hand it out to community members. A recipient of the Food Pantries Act grant, the Conifer Food Pantry brings much-needed food to hungry families, as well as some mountain folks who now live in their cars and even tents. This effort aims to keep the Conifer community fed. ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD Colorado Food Pantries report an increase of two to six times their previous client numbers. In April, Healthier Colorado conducted a survey on the impact of the coronavirus, which painted a disturbing picture for many Coloradans. According to their findings, 47 percent of respondents said they or someone in their household had lost their job, lost income, or had hours reduced due to the coronavirus. People taking the brunt of this economic contraction include younger people 18-29 (64 percent lost job/income), people who rent (57 percent), those who work outside the home (57 percent), those on Medicaid (61 percent), households living on $30K income or less (53 percent), and homes with an individual 18 years or younger (54 percent). Cutter understood the urgent necessity for the Food Pantry Bill in this dire economic environment. “Hunger is something that I have always cared about. It has been important to me. It has been a problem for a long time,” Cutter said. CREDIT: PAULA BARD Hunger fits into a broader vision for Cutter. “I’m really interested in the juxtaposition of hunger, food waste, climate change, soil health, and composting. All of these come together. Climate change is going to make it harder to feed people. Regenerative agriculture, good soil health – that’s what’s going to help folks. We have to look for solutions that address this on a number of levels and create systemic change.” Cutter believes the Food Pantry Bill is a start. If she wins a second term during the November election, she will continue focusing on these issues. ■ November 2020 DENVER VOICE 7

NATIONAL STORY FROM LEFT SHUNDEEN WILLIAMS, MARIE WILLIAMS, KEVIN FURCAP AND GLORIA ERIACHO REST IN THE SHADE AFTER COOKING DINNER. ALL FOUR HAD COME BACK TO CARE FOR THEIR MOTHER AND GRANDMOTHER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SURVIVING COVID ON THE NAVAJO RESERVATION BY GILES CLASEN HAULING WATER Every day Franklin Martin walks to the Chevy truck he inherited from his cousin, who died too young in an alcoholrelated driving accident. Martin’s life has been marked by the loss of loved ones long before COVID-19 came to the Navajo Reservation. Today, however, that loss feels closer than years past because the spread of the coronavirus has hit his people uniquely hard. Martin could replace the truck; it is well over 20 years old and has the miles to match. Still, Martin likes the connection to his past, even the tragedy. He doesn’t want to forget the people he has lost. These days Martin uses the truck to transport water and other supplies to individuals in need on the Bodaway-Gap chapter of the Navajo Reservation. He and his daughter, Alicia Martin, started hauling water and other supplies to individuals living on the Navajo Reservation in March of this year. To live in the Arizona desert without running water requires each family to haul water to their home. Often, Navajo families live on less than 100 gallons of water a week to cook, clean, and drink. The average individual in the United States uses close to 100 gallons of water in a day, but the Navajo Nation has had a precarious relationship with water for years. The Arizona desert is very dry, and the bedrock is difficult to break through. Even if you could dig deep enough to reach water, the uranium mining of past decades has made much of the ground water unsafe for human consumption. THE VIRUS STRIKES Day to day life was difficult enough, then COVID-19 hit. In the early days of COVID, the Navajo Nation had some of the highest case rates for the virus in the United States. The Federal Government did little to help. The situation got so bad that Doctors Without Borders stepped in to help control the spread. The guidelines to stay safe were simple. Wash your hands, wear a mask, and social distance. When water is scarce, it is difficult to follow the guidelines. It is difficult to clean and wash your hands with such little water. It is difficult to social distance when you need to drive into a city center frequently to get more water. Arizona does not have a statewide mask mandate, and outside the reservation, mask usage is somewhat scarce in the smaller cities. As of October 14, there have been 10,780 confirmed cases on the Reservation. That is nearly one case per 30 people. Simply put, the Navajo Nation is not in a strong position to fight COVID-19 without help. THINKING BIGGER At a local level, individuals like Alicia and Franklin also sought to help. “We started collecting supplies and delivering them as soon as we could,” Alicia said. “It’s not right to say, ‘No’ when someone needs help, and people are dying right now. Our people need help.” The work started slowly, as the two learned how to organize a relief team. With permission from the restaurant where she was working, Alicia took water to give to families. Her restaurant had been shuttered due to the virus, and she had been furloughed. She began thinking bigger. In April, Alicia started a GoFundMe campaign and raised $10,000. She brought in help to manage the money and ensure the donations went to supplies for her people. Things were moving rapidly. Then, Franklin was diagnosed with the virus. He spent two weeks in the hospital recovering. By the time the two got back to delivering water and supplies, three family members, Franklin’s aunt, uncle, and cousin, had died from COVID-19. DELIVERING SUPPLIES As the battle with the virus took a personal toll on the Martins, they continued delivering supplies. Cheryl Osorio and her family live in a house that is not connected to the power grid and has no running water. Osorio uses a generator to power her house when needed. She uses her wood stove to cook and purify her water. Osorio and her family hadn’t been willing to drive into Page, Ariz. The city didn’t enact a mask mandate until June 24, and the trip to the tourist town seemed too risky. Osorio is grateful to the Martins for the supply runs, but living conditions on the Reservation remain difficult. “I want to move out of here,” Osorio said. “I feel like we’re forgotten with everybody else getting help. This has been going on a long time. Just with COVID, it’s different now. It is scarier.” The Martins eventually started receiving help from other sources. Compassionate Colorado delivered four trailers of food, water, and cleaning supplies to the Martins in June. (See “Compassionate Colorado Lives up to Its Name” in the Denver VOICE July 2020 issue.) 8 DENVER VOICE November 2020 NATIONAL STORY KENDRICK WEEKS CARRIES HIS SON ARIES WHILE PUTTING DONATED SUPPLIES INTO HIS TRUCK. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN The Martins insisted every can of food, diaper, and water bottle be cleaned with bleach before going into storage. They couldn’t risk carrying the coronavirus onto the Reservation. The items in highest demand have been hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes. “They are like gold,’ Alicia said. FROM BAD TO WORSE The problems for the Navajo people started long before COVID. A land dispute between the Navajo and Hopi tribes led to a freeze of all development and construction on the Navajo Reservation. The Bennet Freeze, as it was known, was intended to encourage negotiations between the two tribes. Instead, it prevented individuals from legally repairing or replacing their homes. The Freeze lasted over 40 years, until the Obama administration removed it in 2009. But the ramifications continue to impact individuals. Joyce Dale lives in a home that has no working plumbing. The foundation became damaged during the freeze and went unrepaired for years. Dale qualified for a subsidy to help with her housing, but her home was deemed damaged beyond repair, so she is not permitted to use the subsidy to repair the home. “I’m fighting to keep mice and other wild things out,” Dale said. “I’m so ashamed of my house, how it looks. I wish I lived in a better home in a place with water. I wish we could repair what we have.” The house has been re-sided with plywood over the years, and she has a bathroom that stores boxes because the plumbing doesn’t work. She and her husband repeatedly apply hand sanitizer and are isolating themselves to avoid COVID. She fears that if she were to get COVID-19 she would not make it through. She is medically vulnerable due to having had a stroke. DOING WHAT THEY CAN “People don’t understand what we are going through on the Reservation,” Alicia said. “We were forgotten long before COVID, and now we are struggling more because of years of being abandoned.” The Martins are doing what they can to help people during COVID but are already thinking about what they can do for their people once COVID-19 is no longer a threat. They have set up a nonprofit — Families to Families Ajooba’ Hasin — and are close to raising another $100,000 on GoFundMe. Franklin is running for president of his Navajo Chapter. He and Alicia have been talking weekly with their nonprofit board to organize deliveries and seek needed supplies. They work six days a week, often 12 or more hours a day. The Martins are hopeful that their work can help their people today and create more opportunity for their people in the future. They have no plans to stop. ■ To donate to or learn more about the Families to Families Ajooba’ Hasin COVID Relief Fund, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/clean-water-for-navajo CHERYL OSORIO TELLS HER SON JESUS TO TURN THE LIGHTS OFF TO HER HOME. OSORIO AND HER FAMILY LIVE IN A HOUSE WITH NO RUNNING WATER AND NOT CONNECTED TO THE POWER GRID. OSORIO USES A GENERATOR TO POWER HER HOUSE WHEN NEEDED. SHE USES HER WOOD STOVE TO COOK AND PURIFY HER WATER. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN November 2020 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY RESTORING VOTING RIGHTS TO EX-FELONS IN FLORIDA : AN INTERVIEW WITH SARAH PARADY BY GILES CLASEN SARAH PARADY IS A FORMER LAWYER and current partner of Parady Lebsack Law Firm, which specializes in employment law and civil liberties. Parady was the president of the Colorado Women’s Bar Association in 2019-2020 and was recognized as the 2017 New Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association. But when she first became a mother a couple of years ago, Parady found it difficult to balance her professional responsibilities with mothering responsibilities. She said the weight she felt for her clients was almost overwhelming. She often served individuals with mental health issues in employment cases and fought for their rights. When she first started having panic attacks, she didn’t recognize that she was the one who needed mental health care. Parady went to her partners in early 2020 to let them know she was struggling. The next day, the firm reassigned her cases to help her recover. Parady has been taking a break from the law since then but has not stopped living her values. She began working as a volunteer with Resistance Labs and has sent more than 8,000 texts to individuals in support of community outreach on progressive campaigns. Parady said she recognizes that not all individuals are as fortunate as she has been. Not all are able to take leave of their careers when it interferes with their health. She also believes this needs to change so all people can meet their needs and their families’ needs no matter the circumstances. She believes employees’ rights and the American Safety Net program need to be strengthened. The following interview with her has been edited for length and clarity. “LEADING UP TO THE ELECTION, I tried to test drive different ways to help with different get-out-the-vote campaigns. I wanted to do anything to bolster our democracy into the run-up to this election. I eventually signed up for an organization called Resistance Labs that CREDIT: GILES CLASEN voting access. The goal is to return to felons the rights that the voters intended. There’s a court decision upholding the law that the legislature passed; it’s just that the courts have punted on and essentially have refused to consider it on an emergency basis, all the way up to the Supreme Court. And so, getting involved in as far of the opposite end as runs text campaigns for all kinds of mostly smaller, progressive nonprofits and campaigns around the country. They do local elections, they do different kinds of get-outthe-vote programs, and a lot of stuff with the 2020 Census. One of the campaigns this year was for the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC). What they had us do was to send out massive numbers of text messages to people in Florida asking if they or anyone they knew needed to pay off legal fines to be able to vote. Florida succeeded at the campaign [to give ex-felons back their voting rights], and then immediately after that, the state legislature turned around and passed a law that said that, essentially, in contravention of what the state’s residents had voted on, former felons could not vote unless they had paid off all of their fines and fees from the criminal justice system. These fines can be thousands and thousands of dollars. And that might include restitution to victims, but it can include other things, as well. So, the FRRC campaign involved raising money to help people pay off those fines so that they could get back their 10 DENVER VOICE November 2020 you imagine: sending texts to people and saying, ‘Hey, do you need help with your fines and fees so you can vote?’ was just satisfying on a level that I can’t even begin to explain. It was like, ‘Forget the Supreme Court, we can fix this sort of democratically,’ and I would get quite a few responses. Throughout the campaign, I texted thousands of people, and I’m sure I got at least 50 or 60 that said they needed fines or fees paid off or knew someone who did. One of the beautiful things about that is that it’s not just that you’re going to get your voting rights back. Any kind of debt is probably impacting people’s ability to get housing, lines of credit, all those things. Assisting people’s reentry to society is a fantastic anti-poverty measure, as well. The instructions we received were detailed. For example, we might be told ‘If you’re viewing [specific information] on your phone screen, you may need to shrink the window to see Question Four, and that may be why you’re getting that error.’ We walked people through the steps, helping them get their applications in. We made sure to follow up and help people get to the polls. That’s as direct a relationship to helping people access their constitutional rights as I’ve ever had, and it was a lot of fun.” In some ways Parady felt this campaign work was more impactful than the work she did to restore rights to individuals in the courtroom. “One thing that is a little bit frustrating for an attorney is the ratio, the limited number of clients we’re allowed to take on. There are two different outcomes that a case can have. Obviously, the number one concern is helping the client right the wrong that happened to them, but another possibility is that you might make a good case law for another case, and that happens from time to time. For example, I had a case once that was a wage theft class action. We got the first ruling in the District of Colorado saying that two different entities, whether employer or temp/ staffing agency, could be jointly liable for unpaid wages. This is important in this economy because you frequently have things like staffing agencies, temp agencies, franchising, or what people call fissuring of the workplace. The Colorado wage laws provide that if you are acting as someone’s employer, then you and whomever you shifted that job off to on paper should be jointly liable for the terminated employee’s wages. That case made it so you can’t contract away your obligations as an employer. A decision like that is helpful and important and is kind of motivating in a different way. But when it came to representing individual clients, I worried about them and tried to stick with them through the big slug of litigation to eventually get them a good outcome. It took a lot of their time, a lot of my time. It was very emotionally difficult to get there for a lot of my clients, to spend all this time in this very uncertain state where you’re waiting to see if you’re going to get compensated. You have financial worries, and you’re having to tell the story of what happened to you over and over again, the system is super complex. Those outcomes often, at the end of the day, were very, very good. We’re frequently able to recover a lot of money for some of our clients, but it’s not immediate. And it’s a whole lot of effort for both the attorney and the client to get there. So, it’s pretty different [from the volunteer work with the FRRC], I would say. In Colorado, we don’t have felon disenfranchisement, which is a wonderful thing. Several states still do. There’s been a movement for decades now to try to change that. The thought is that you’ve paid your debt to society and you’ve seen a part of society that a lot of us haven’t seen, frankly. Most Americans have never even been inside a prison or jail or had a relationship with someone who was. [Being inside a prison] really does change your view of what the government does and how the government should use its power. Those are people who I want to see voting because they’ve experienced both the criminal justice system, the courts, the legal system, maybe the public defender system, and then incarceration in a way that many people have not. They have a very relevant and important voice. More fundamentally than that, they’re citizens of this country, and once they’ve done their time and been released, I see no reason why we should continue to keep them out of our political processes.” ■ IN YOUR OWN WORDS WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES Each month, the Denver VOICE publishes a selection of writing from workshops sponsored by Lighthouse Writers Workshop. The Hard Times Writing Workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. This workshop is open to all members of the public—especially those experiencing homelessness. Contact the Lighthouse Writers Workshop for details about virtual Hard Times writing workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times The Lighthouse sponsored workshop at The Gathering Place is specifically for that organization’s clients. To check out more writing by the poets featured in this column, go to writedenver.org. JANIS OLSEN THE KEY SHALEEN VANESE FIGUEROA CHARLOTTE & WILBUR I still have her keys Singing in all the betweens The key to her heart. Such the tangled web we weave, When first we conspire to deceive. Direly at a loss, we diligently strive, to indeed achieve, To retain a win we had once thought, We would never ever receive. BENJAMIN ERIC NELSON WEPT Leaves are placed upon his dead body His eyelids pulled down for respect Ambulance is coming... Oddly To scoop him up he is blessed Order of name Scrub belief Scrub insane To lose my mind was a release It helps sometimes Force of habit Spell unwinds Alure is tragic Honor kept Seeing another one has wept Hurry up and wait. That’s how we play the game. Each day in and each one out, Seems to just never cease to amaze. Just never winning for losing, Is just LIFE, very simple, and cruising, Praying that one day there will be a win for all that losing, And maybe we can triumph over all those hardships, we tend to just daily grieve. ...To be continued. PRESENTED BY: November 2020 DENVER VOICE 11

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Equipment, classes, personalized fitness plans, and events may vary by location. Certain services, classes and events are provided by affiliates of UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or other third parties not affiliated with UnitedHealthcare. Participation in AARP® Staying Sharp and the Fitbit® Community for Renew Active is subject to your acceptance of their respective terms and policies. UnitedHealthcare is not responsible for the services or information provided by third parties. The information provided through these services is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor. The Renew Active program varies by plan/area. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Participation in the Renew Active™ by UnitedHealthcare program is voluntary. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine. Equipment and classes may vary by location. Services, including equipment, classes, personalized fitness plans provided by fitness centers, and brain activities provided by BrainHQ, are provided by third parties not affiliated with UnitedHealthcare. UnitedHealthcare does not endorse and is not responsible for the services or information provided by this program. Availability of the Renew Active™ program varies by plan/area. 12 DENVER VOICE November 2020 Y0066_190904_083721_M 20CST20874_H0624-001-000 EVENTS WHEN: Nov 2, 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Stanley Marketplace – 2501 Dallas St. MORE INFO: facebook.com/OhHeyStanley MLK/FBI AT THE DENVER FILM FESTIVAL MLK/FBI is the first film to uncover the extent of the FBI’s surveillance and harassment of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Based on newly discovered and declassified files and utilizing a trove of documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act and unsealed by the National Archives, this documentary explores the government’s history of targeting Black activists and leaders and the contested meaning behind some of our most cherished ideals. WHEN: Nov 7 COST: $18 MORE INFO: Online at denverfilm.org/dff43 VIRTUAL TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE No spaceship? No problem. Learn about our place in the universe, how we fit into the solar system, and the ways we are integrally connected to space, all from the comfort of your own living room. Content is geared towards the entire family. WHEN: Nov 11, 6:30 p.m. COST: $8 MORE INFO: Online at facebook.com/DMNSorg OPENING DAY OF THE DENVER CHRISTKINDL MARKET This festive holiday tradition moves to Civic Center Park this year, allowing for more social distancing between guests. However, much of the charm will remain with festive music, big beers, Gluhwein, traditional cuisine, craft vendors, and heat lamps scattered throughout the park. Market runs through December 23, 2020; check the website for daily hours and entertainment. WHEN: Nov 20, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Civic Center Park – Colfax & Broadway MORE INFO: christkindlmarketdenver.com AFRO-CUBAN DANCING IN THE PARK Although the world of Afro-Cuban dance is vast, the instructor will focus on a few concepts for each class, explaining each movement and the connection of the dance to the music and history. All are welcome, this class takes place outdoors. Masks are required. WHEN: Nov 29, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: Cheeseman Park – 1599 E. 8th Ave. MORE INFO: facebook.com/RastaSalsaDance November 2020 DENVER VOICE 13 ACROSS 1. “Aladdin” prince 4. 2006 Pixar film 8. Said something 13. (In) harmony 15. Sandler of “Big Daddy” 16. Reacted to fireworks 17. Jewish month 18. ___ good example 19. “___ Green Tomatoes” 20. Keystone XL and Dakota Access, for two 22. Muscle weakness 23. Had a homecooked meal 24. Emmy-winning Lewis 26. TV teaser 28. Croquet hoop 32. Beach, in Barcelona 35. Alternative to a fade 37. Reverse 38. Campus military org. 39. Dizzy 40. Opera house box 41. Aroma 42. Counter call 43. Wait with ___ breath 44. Take off 46. Fragrant wood 48. Consider, as options 50. Who’s who 53. Islamic teacher (Var.) 56. Withdrawing clerical status from 59. Be of use 60. “I’m ___ your tricks!” 61. Edible taro root 62. Change, as a clock 63. Ancient 64. Slap on, as paint 65. Flip, in a way 66. Viral sensation 67. Floral necklace DOWN 1. PDQ 2. One of the sisters in “Pride and Prejudice” 3. Not suitable 4. Slot spot 5. Gulf of ___, off the coast of Yemen 6. Numbers needed when converting currencies 7. Huge hit 8. Wildlife ___, animal park in Winston, Oregon 9. Specified 10. Buckeye State 11. Astute 12. Small whirlpool 14. Bugs 21. Turkish money 25. Missing from the Marines, say 27. Filly’s mother 29. Granny ___ 30. Halftime lead, e.g. 31. Pigeon-___ 32. Egg on 33. Mother ___ 34. Above 36. Network of nerves 39. Debate side 43. Island near Java 45. Property 47. Crack 49. Twilight, old-style 51. Kind of wave 52. Provide (with) 53. Neighbor of Earth 54. Eye layer 55. Glasgow gal 57. Tabloid twosome 58. Mongolian desert COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. DAY OF THE DEAD FAMILY CELEBRATION Come experience this unique tradition at this family-friendly event, featuring music, dancing, a pumpkin patch, and beautiful altars throughout the building. Masks will be required inside and outside of the Marketplace. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 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

DONORS DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation The NextFifty Initiative Help Colorado Now $10,000+ John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel DEDO Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Community Foundation of Boulder County Jerry Conover Meek-Cuneo Family Fund $1,000-$4,999 Josh Kauer Bright Funds Network for Good Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Arc Thrift Stores Jeremy Anderson City Side Remodeling Matthew Rezek Schuster Family Foundation Russell Peterson PEN America Craig & Teresa Solomon Signs by Timorrow Jim Ashe Wynkoop Brewery George Lichter Family Foundation Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Kauer Construction & Design Gaetanos Restaurant Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Gaelina Tesfaye Donald Weaver Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Comedy Works Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi Jill Haug Caring Connection Alistair Davidson Paul Manoogian Kroger Grocery Ridley McGreevy & Winocur Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Keyrenter Property Management Denver Gaspar Terrana Travis & Margaret Ramp Elizabeth A. Mitchell Stephen Saul Leigh Bingham and Chris Forgham James Stegman William Thorland Betty & Warren Kuehner Zephyr Wilkins Celestina Pacheco ACM LLP Cuneo Law Firm Paul Hoffman Jim and Nancy Thomas Peggy Mihelich Susan B. Jones 14 DENVER VOICE November 2020 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 add 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 RESOURCES RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs TRINITY UNITED METHODIST 1820 Broadway, meals served Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 trinityumc.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 112 E. 8th Ave.; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org November 2020 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 THURSDAY, 6-7:30 P.M. The Denver VOICE’s second annual Pints Fighting Poverty Pub Crawl on November 19, 2020 is an incredible opportunity to show support for those in our community experiencing homelessness and/or poverty, gain insight into the realities, and make an impact by helping us raise the funds to continue to provide economic, education, and empowerment opportunities for those we have the privilege of serving! Happening during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the evening kicks off VIRTUALLY this year with a special online guest speaker and a series of featured vendors - includes four virtual stops and a host of exclusive drink selections at some of Denver’s premier brewery and spirit locations! You can register as an individual, couple, or host a small group in your home with special group pricing packages. 100 percent of proceeds raised go toward our mission 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 during a time when need is at an all time high and the challenges of the pandemic mean your support is more important than ever before. TICKETS: DENVERVOICE.ORG/PINTSFIGHTINGPOVERTY fighting Pints poverty a fundraiser v i r t u a l 2 0 t 2 r 0 t o u r

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE “SOLIDARITY, NOT CHARITY” AS THE PANDEMIC BEGAN ROLLING THROUGH THROUGH DENVER, A GROUP OF FRIENDS FOUND A WAY TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THEIR COMMUNITY. PAGES 8-9 DENVER COURTS UNFAIR TO BLACK PEOPLE STUDY FINDS DENVER’S MUNICIPAL COURT SYSTEM POSES STRICTER SENTENCES ON BLACK PEOPLE COMPARED TO OTHERS WHO COMMIT THE SAME CRIME. PAGE 4 THE PROBLEM ISN’T POVERTY RYAN TAYLOR WITH NETWORK COFFEE HOUSE TALKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS AS A STARTING POINT TO ACHIEVE SOCIAL JUSTICE. PAGE 6 THE HIDDEN IMPACT OF CORONAVIRUS SOME OF THE MOST MARGINALIZED PEOPLE IN THE UK ARE OFTEN LEFT OUT OF RESEARCH AND OUTREACH PROGRAMS. PAGE 12 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 SEPTEMBER 2020 | Vol.25 Issue 9 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: CREDIT: PAULA BARD

EDITOR’S NOTE OVER THE PAST MONTH, I’ve spoken to countless people, who seem to be at a breaking point. Thrown into a tumultuous election cycle and a season of countless hurricanes, wildfires, a global pandemic, and a massive loss of jobs and income, it’s no wonder a cloud of malaise seems to be hanging over so many of us. While our individual challenges ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR may be numerous, those who have a steady income and stable housing are in much better shape than people, whose best option is to live in a tent somewhere on the streets of Denver (even if they have to move the tent and any personal belongings, whenever the city conducts its sweeps). It won’t be long before we see a dramatic increase of families that have been evicted or are facing eviction, which means, it’s only a matter of time until we see more people standing on street corners with signs requesting “a little help,” longer lines waiting to get into the local shelters, and more encampments scattered around the city. With so many job losses and so much uncertainty, any one of us could find ourselves in financial distress and facing homelessness. This chaotic world is difficult for everyone, but for some, it is even worse. So, as we witness an influx of unhoused individuals, rather than click our tongues or turn our noses at those less fortunate, now is an opportunity to show our humanity, be humbler, kinder, and demonstrate more compassion. After all, isn’t that what we would want if we were the ones holding up the signs or looking for somewhere to sleep? ■ SEPTEMBER CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @OCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Kate Marshall Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS Brian Augustine Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis Doug Hrdlicka Raelene Johnson Myra Nagy Jerry Rosen 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. Rachel Sulzbach Nathanial Trotter Rodney Woolfolk Howard Zaremba BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins 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 1600 Downing St., Ste. 230, Denver, CO 80218 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. OFFICE HOURS: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE September 2020 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: DJ BY PAULA BARD A FOURTH-GENERATION COLORADAN, DJ, lived briefly at Resurrection Village, the tent city north of downtown. “Suddenly, I had the blind light of reality smack me upside the head. I walked out of CU in 1997 with a piece of paper, English Lit, $38,000 in debt, and I went, ‘Well, what do I do now?’ And, yes, I knew there wasn’t going to be a job waiting for me at the end. I wasn’t able to get employment; wasn’t able to get the student loan thing settled down.” “I still have that debt, can’t get a telephone, can’t get anything that’s got any sort of credit required. It’s been so long now, I have no idea what it would be like to go purchase something, get a telephone, an apartment, you know. These are all tied in. They look at that background check, do a credit report to rent you an apartment. “Spent a couple of years down at Denver Health as a prep cook. Staying in a hotel was affordable back then. Now, 90 percent of my income is spent on rent. Or I sleep outside, what’s the choice?” ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD Author’s Note: In the fall of 2015, just ahead of Colorado’s winter, Denver sent the full force of its police department and SWAT team to destroy five tiny homes that people “living without homes” had built north of downtown. Something in me snapped: Denver is behaving like a bully! Denver has more than 6,000 people without homes, and more than 3,000 trying to survive on its streets. It is an ugly business. In 2012, Denver passed an urban-camping ban making it illegal for the homeless to protect themselves with “any form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.” Violations can bring a $999 fine or a year in jail. I began walking those streets where the homeless are trying to survive, photographing the faces and collecting the stories of those my city has abandoned. So began OUR Streets – stories of Denver’s unhoused residents. HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. September 2020 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS ASK A VENDOR Q Did the shutdown/shelterin-place period affect your life in any way? A BRIAN AUGUSTINE The shutdown made me realize how much I enjoy my job. Going from 300 or 400 smiling faces a day to just mine was hard on my psyche. Shopping was not too hard, but missing my “King Soopers family,” hurt a lot. RAELENE JOHNSON I have to stay home because I have COPD. I haven’t been able to work much because I’m scared of getting the coronavirus. I’m grateful that I live on 25 acres of land. That has helped me not to be so lonely. I get to take my dogs on long walks. Life is getting better for me because my daughter, grandson, and son have moved to Colorado. I don’t feel so lonely anymore! (I’m a very social person.) JERRY ROSEN The shutdown did affect me in some ways. Public transportation wasn’t too efficient. The bus started quite late. [Because the April and May issues of the paper were not printed,] I sold older issues, and even though they were old issues, I did quite well. NATHANIAL TROTTER Not going to work was a big change; however, I worked on my art a lot. I bought more food that I would not have gotten otherwise. I bought a water purifier, as well. RODNEY WOOLFOLK Yes, I spent it at home. I picked up a little of this or that at stores. RACHEL SULZBACH My husband lost his job. Now we stay in motels. TEMPORARY SAFE OUTDOOR SPACE DELAYED, DDPHE ANNOUNCES BY ROBERT DAVIS HOMELESS PEOPLE IN DENVER will have to wait until at least September before the city’s temporary safe outdoor space will open, Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) announced. The Denver Coliseum is no longer being considered as a location following a contentious public comment session before Denver City Council, where neighborhood residents voiced concerns about encampments taking over their streets and parks, and about the overall health and safety of their potential homeless neighbors. During the meeting, Councilwoman Debora Ortega shared a statement from the Globeville Elyria-Swansea neighborhood against the use of the Coliseum as an outdoor space. “We oppose placing the outdoor tent city in our neighborhood because once again, the community was excluded from the decision-making process,” the statement said. The neighborhood is also grappling with noise pollution from the I-70 expansion project and is home to an EPA Brownfield. DDPHE says they hope to open at least three sites initially, with about 60 people allowed in each site. 9News reported that other locations being considered include Riverside Baptist Church, Landry’s Aquarium, and the Coors Field parking lot. Meanwhile, the city continues its practice of sweeping homeless camps. Two major camps—Lincoln Street and Morey Middle School—were dispersed on consecutive days. Despite protests and intervention from community members and some elected officials, several other camps were swept throughout August. In late July, Denver School Board member Tay Anderson was struck in the head by a police officer during one of the protests. He was later hospitalized for a concussion. ■ STUDY FINDS DENVER MUNICIPAL COURT OVERWHELMED WITH HOMELESS CASES, PUNISHES BLACK PEOPLE MORE SEVERELY BY ROBERT DAVIS A STUDY CONDUCTED by Denver’s Office of the Municipal Public Defender (OMPD) found the city’s municipal court system is overwhelmed with homeless cases and imposes stricter sentences on Black people compared to non-Black individuals who commit the same crime. Alice Norman, the city’s chief public defender, and attorney Nathaniel Baca, presented the findings to the Denver City Council during a Safety, Education & Homelessness Committee meeting. OMPD’s team oversaw more than 10,000 cases from 2018 WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ASK? We would like to engage more Denver VOICE vendors and readers. If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE September 2020 to 2019, but was only able to dig deep into 65 percent of the cases because the remaining were still active. Their goal was to better understand the population living in Denver’s jails to determine how the city’s court system can better serve them. Three notable conclusions stood out in the report. First, a majority of cases the court hears involve people experiencing homelessness. Second, the court’s procedural requirements potentially deprive people of their Sixth Amendment rights.* Further, according to the report, Black people are overrepresented in the overall population of those arrested. Homeless people primarily enter Denver’s municipal court system in three ways: park violations, trespassing, or being drunk in public. In all, 38 percent of cases heard by the court involve people experiencing homelessness. “What these people are experiencing is essentially a revolving door, where they are let out and wind up coming back a few weeks or months later on another trespassing case. Meanwhile, their situation is slowly deteriorating,” Baca said Inside, the court’s operational procedures are misaligned with the needs of the people it serves and potentially strip individuals of their Sixth Amendment rights. The study found that 57 percent of arrestees either don’t or can’t pay Denver’s $25 fee to apply for public defender representation within the 21-day requirement and subsequently risk their right to a jury trial. Cases sent to a judge are dismissed more than 69 percent of the time, while only two percent go to trial. Compared to the statewide system, the city’s probation department doesn’t provide much support for those released on probation, either. Almost half of those released end up incarcerated, compared to the statewide rate of 35 percent. One factor driving Denver’s recidivism rate is that the city struggles to get people to appear for court dates. Sixty-eight percent of people miss their court date, and more than 1,200 of the sampled cases had active warrants for arrest. These factors contributed to OMPD’s conclusion that Black people are treated differently by Denver’s municipal court system, which results in higher incarceration rates than non-Black individuals convicted of the same crimes. During the meeting, councilmembers audibly gasped when OMPD presented the fact that Black people make up nearly 30 percent of the municipal jail population and 28 percent of the state’s homeless population while accounting for just under 10 percent of the state’s population. Black people who face charges of interference or resisting arrest are sentenced to jail in 75 percent of cases. Non-Black individuals receive jail sentences 43 percent of the time. Norman recommended several solutions, including reconsidering what role police play, how they should be funded, and finding ways to keep homeless people out of the court system. “How are the police supposed to be enforcers, mediators, therapists, social workers, case managers, and mental health experts, all in one?” she asked. Norman also mentioned how OMPD could be used to stop the revolving door for Denver’s homeless and connect them with services such as mental health counseling, empowerment, or to the Department of Human Services. Both solutions could reduce recidivism and improve outcomes for homeless people in the court system. According to the American Bar Association, homeless individuals can receive credit for time served by participating in program activities such as AA/NA meetings, training programs, or by seeking employment and counseling. “We want to be the front door to procedural justice,” Norman said. “The people who need these services are homeless, indigent, or mentally-challenged, and they are already in our office.” ■ *The Sixth Amendment guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, including the right to a public trial without unnecessary delay, the right to a lawyer, the right to an impartial jury, and the right to know who the defendant’s accusers are, and the nature of the charges and evidence against the defendant. LOCAL NEWS WHERE COLORADO’S CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES STAND ON HOUSING ISSUES BY ROBERT DAVIS IF THERE IS ONE THING 2020 HAS PROVEN, it’s that fair housing legislation is essential to public health. Currently, more than 30 people are vying to represent one of Colorado’s seven congressional districts after the general election on November 3. In the Senate race, former governor, John Hickenlooper, and his opponent, incumbent Cory Gardner, are currently joined by six other contenders, according to the Secretary of State’s office. Each candidate has an opportunity to influence housing policy, an issue that the Denver VOICE cares about deeply. To help our readers understand where each candidate stands on this issue, we asked them each three questions: • What will you do during your time in office to support unhoused people in Colorado? • Do you support rental/mortgage assistance programs and other programs that help homeless people find temporary indoor shelter during the pandemic? Why or why not? • Why should individuals experiencing homelessness in Denver vote for you? These are their responses: SENATE JOHN HICKENLOOPER (D): “Our nation’s homelessness crisis is a tragedy — and at a time when the Senate should be working around the clock to pass rental assistance and extending the eviction moratorium, they took a two-week vacation. In the Senate, I’ll fight to expand affordable housing, drive down costs, and support Section 8.” HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IKE MCCORKLE (D; CD-4): “In Congress, I will address the affordable housing crisis by increasing funding for the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund and expanding Housing Choice initiatives. Amongst the many other fair housing policies that must be expanded, I support rental and mortgage assistance legislation and federal eviction moratoria because every Coloradan has the right to economic security — and that includes a safe roof over their heads. Colorado’s homeless are just one of the many groups neglected by establishment politicians. I am ready to serve those who need representation most.” JILLIAN FREELAND (D; CD-5): “We have to address the root causes of housing insecurity; low wages and inflated housing costs. A lack of access to mental healthcare and addiction treatment also leaves people vulnerable to losing their housing. Legislation must address these underlying issues immediately through increased federal minimum wage, caps on rental rates, and complete access to medical services. For folks who are currently unhoused, we must reduce our dependence on shelters; they only solve the problem of where to sleep for one night. I will explore solutions such as distributed subsidized housing, tiny homes, and residential therapeutic communities to ensure that everyone has access to services that help people achieve independence and live with dignity. The Trump administration failed to take adequate action to prevent the disease from spreading; as a result, millions DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOROFTHEYEAR The Vendor of the Year recipient will receive a cash award of $100. Additionally, the winning vendor will be honored by the Denver VOICE community at our virtual Pints Fighting Poverty event in November. VOTE FOR OUR VENDOR OF THE YEAR! Now that the Denver VOICE is back in print, and more importantly, that most of our vendors have returned, we will resume our vendor profiles in the October issue. For now, we would like your help in nominating the Denver VOICE Vendor of the Year. Cast your vote today! of people lost their jobs. We have a moral obligation to protect them from losing their homes. I support rental and mortgage assistance as well as eviction moratoriums. Every single person deserves to have real representation in their government. The sad fact is that the Trump administration has prioritized businesses, not people, and it has left a lot of people without the resources they need to live with dignity. I will fight to guarantee access to the healthcare, education, and support services that give people the tools we need to THRIVE, not simply survive.” JAIMIE LYNN KULIKOWSKI (D; CD-6): “Rather than tell you what I will do, I am going to tell you what I have done and am currently doing to support unhoused people in Colorado. While dancing at a studio in Five Points, I befriended a homeless man who played the drums there. He was where he was being unhoused. I was where I was being housed. We never made that our focal point of conversation. It wasn’t the main part of his identity. My point is that I understand being unhoused is deeply personal and only represents a fraction of who you are as a whole. I also understand your experience transitioning from unhoused to housed will come from your own fortitude, not from anyone else’s charity or political agenda. In addition to befriending homeless people, I also speak up to state leaders regarding their treatment of them. Here is part of a message I sent Mayor Michael Hancock on April 27, 2020, regarding his order to displace the unhoused: “The unhoused don’t have traditional homes, but wherever they are is where their home is. They need to stay at home just like you have ordered everyone else to do. Everyone knows that forced migration of large groups of people increases risk of illness. We are already in a dangerous pandemic, or so all senior leaders say. Forcing Denver’s unhoused to move will endanger their lives as well as the lives of the people living in the community they get moved to. Don’t do this.” CASPER STOCKHAM (CD-7): “For over 10 months, while running for Congress in Congressional District 7, I studied the homeless problem extensively. We fed and provided clothes to the homeless. We also conducted tours of many of the homeless locations in the Denver area. The directors of the shelters all said their number one problem in helping more homeless people was government intervention. One director told me he could help an additional 100 families that same day if the local and state governments were not stopping them. So the homeless problem could be brought back to manageable levels by doing the following three things: 1. Get the government out of the homeless business. 2. Use the current money spent on the homeless, over $50K per year, per chronic homeless person — and provide it to the current, established shelters with very few if any strings. 3. Force people to use the shelter system to get off the streets and get help or move to a different state.” ■ This story will be updated with additional campaign responses. September 2020 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN THE PROBLEM ISN’T POVERTY An Interview With Ryan Taylor BY GILES CLASEN RYAN TAYLOR IS THE DIRECTOR of Network Coffee House and the pastor of Saint James Urban Church. Network Coffee House is a ministry serving unhoused individuals in Denver, providing resources and human connection for those living on the streets. Ryan has been involved in both ministries for more than 10 years. The following story includes excerpts from a conversation with Taylor edited for length and clarity. HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Growing up, there wasn’t a lot of chaos in my life, and I am very grateful for that. I grew up in a conservative environment—a very conservative home—but a very dedicated, churchgoing home. Berean Bible Church in Columbus, Indiana was the church I grew up in. It was quite conservative, and we were there any time the doors were unlocked. I don’t think I would be able to do what I’m doing now if I didn’t come from that stability. I had a very traditional Norman Rockwell type of upbringing. I would say my college years and early adult years were a part of exploring the permeable membrane of faith. It was about taking some chances with God. A lot of that started to come through encounters and relationships with people who were experiencing deep poverty and oppression. SOCIAL JUSTICE MUST BEGIN WITH RELATIONSHIPS In my early thirties, I started to realize we aren’t on a telling journey, we’re on a listening journey. Social When you fall in love, you want to advocate for your beloved. Love helps you feel compassion for those who are suffering. Love helps you connect to others and realize, “hey, this person isn’t getting a fair shot.” That is how you get to social justice, by loving. Today, social justice is like a brand. Social justice needs to be a part of the church but it must begin with an ethic of love. If it begins and ends with an ethic of love, then social justice is all about relationship. Relationship is what bonds and binds society together. If a person doesn’t have a shot at being in a relationship with the rest of us—whether it is because of trauma, mental illness, their economic disadvantages—then we’re weaker as a society because of it. It would be ideal to start To make room we need to communicate humanity to people who are easily overlooked and considered an eyesore in society. We had a volunteer who came down one Sunday to serve lunch at an encampment at Logan Street and 14th Avenue. She passes by this tent of a woman who is inside bathing. Karen, our volunteer, asked if she wanted a sandwich and offered to pray with her. In prayer, the bathing woman asked to be relieved of the mental illness and the blockages that keep her in a tent bathing, naked and vulnerable, in front of everybody. Karen’s willingness to look in, see humanity, and pause on a Sunday—that is what this is all about. That is relationship. I think that is what’s distinct about what I inherited here from the perspective of relationship fueled by love. Inevitably, that will lead you to some areas where you feel pretty incompetent. It will lead to a place where you’re using your voice, you’re marching on the streets, and you’re exploring legislation and policy stuff that is going to uplift the overlooked. THE PROBLEM ISN’T POVERTY I think unchecked wealth is a burden on the community. I also think unaccountable capitalism is a burden on our community. I don’t think you can call people a burden on the community no matter where they are living. Downtrodden people can be a prophetic voice to all of us. justice is not the best starting place. Instead, I think starting with love and compassion is the key. Social justice should be born of that love. It can force us to interrogate our own selves and ego. We have to create and provide room for the “inconvenient” people of our society, on the “burdensome”, the “extra needy.” To make room, we have to slow down, check our egos, check our personal agendas, and be able to look somebody in the eye. at Network. We are a ministry and we serve unhoused people, but our central focus is relationships. During the pandemic, we have started providing hygiene products and emergency resources. Our end goal here is to look people in the eye and develop a relationship and not just hand out food or clothing or some other material resources. Our goal is to have a “life-on-life” encounter with people. RELATIONSHIPS HEAL So many of the folks we serve are in the position they are in due to an inability to bond or attach to others, or even attach to reality. This is usually due to childhood trauma, military trauma, or simply the trauma of being on the streets. These traumas create a psychological detachment. The relationship is the balm. The relationship is the invitation to detached people Relationships help people see themselves as a beloved person who is worthy of love and attention. to see themselves again as valued. 6 DENVER VOICE September 2020 LOCAL STORY We’re all walking around here so damn lonely. That’s the real pandemic: loneliness. Relationship is the basic building block for rehabilitation or any sort of progressive trajectory. To say, “Hey, I see you for who you are. You’re loved.” Sometimes that is expressed by giving someone a bottle of water. Or even saying, “Let’s find you a safe place to inject, rather than in a dark alley.” This harm-reduction idea goes right along with seeing humans for who they are: loved. Relationship is so important because we live in a world of commodification and objectification. We need to value humanity and creation. We can’t see people as objects. We need to recognize the Imago Dei, the image of good. It’s been said that the longest space to travel is from the head to the heart. When I think of people that are unhoused, can I name names of people that I’m in relationship with? That’s how it goes from theory to action. It’s a terrible thing to be given a heart, because a heart breaks. When your heart starts to break over a relationship, then it moves from theory to something very tactile. FROM HOUSING FIRST TO RELATIONSHIP FIRST I think we need to move from the Housing First model to a Relationship First model. People think, “Well, you don’t have a home, let’s get you a house. Let’s get you resources and a paycheck and a home, and then eventually you’ll find a job, and then you’ll become a productive member of society.” What the hell does that mean—a productive member of society? If loneliness is the pandemic, if detachment is an issue, then relationship is what people need. We need a Relationship First model that will work in tandem with a Housing First model. We need to not just start with those who can sustain housing, we need to start with those who can never sustain housing apart from someone holding their hand throughout the process. A good example of this type of model is something like AA, where everyone supports one another and leans on one another. The physical stuff—like a house or a job—is important, but it’s only part of the solution. We need to move from objectifying to humanizing. We get tricked into thinking there are levels of superiority and inferiority. The beauty of AA is, “Man, we’ve all hit bottom. We might do it again, and actually, it’s pretty likely.” There’s just this humanizing environment in AA that we could use a lot more of in our society. DENVER VALUES THE RICH, NOT THOSE IN NEED We have segmented our community by those who have options and those who don’t. Some of the encampments, they grow to 100 people and they take on a life of their own because there are no other options. And yet, when you drive around town. you’ll see there’s a ton of options for the wealthy developer and entrepreneur. You’ve got people flocking here to put in high-end housing, luxury condominiums. And then at the same time, there are people being kicked off of certain properties and public spaces because they’re a “nuisance.” Our priorities are whacked. The change has got to start from the top. I have been part of conversations where we’ve tried to develop these safe outdoor spaces, and it gets to a certain point in the food chain, but then it goes no further. Why is that, when there are luxury townhomes being installed all throughout the city? It isn’t a priority for our leaders. It gets me boiling a little bit because it’s entirely incongruent. Our leaders are communicating a very clear and strong message of who belongs and who doesn’t. At the end of the day, we’re going to be a weaker society if we keep giving a voice to one demographic—one income bracket—and not the others. So, yeah, that will fire me up. ■ CREDIT: ALYSSA MAGALONG A BETTER USE FOR PLASTIC BAGS BY DOUG HRDLICKA ALYSSA MAGALONG, who was crowned Miss Colorado Earth 2020, makes mats out of plastic bags and distributes them to people experiencing homelessness. She processes the bags in such a way that allows them to be knit together as one would do with gloves or a hat. “If there was any silver lining during COVID, this project was one of them,” said Magalong. “I was stuck at home, and with my current title of Miss Colorado Earth 2020, I’d been trying to think of ways in which I could educate others and how I could do that at home.” The idea began as a way to educate people on how to reuse old items that would otherwise collect dust or be thrown out. As Magalong explored new ways to educate others, she would eventually stumble upon the tutorials on how to turn plastic bags into a synthetic yarn dubbed “plarn,” which is the result if stringing together multiple bags. “I started by showing individuals how to repurpose old T-shirts. I started also with how to create personalized vases made out of bottles for Mother’s Day, and then I just continued to do more research,” said Magalong. Magalong found that plastic bags are largely produced for just one use, lasting 12 minutes, and after it has served its purpose, the likelihood of the bag being recycled is low. “The research that I found was that American’s use about 100 billion plastic bags a year. On average, American families take home 1,500 plastic shopping bags a year,” said Magalong. Finding that plastic bags have a short lifespan yet continue to be manufactured in the billions prompted Magalong to conduct additional research. In doing so, she found a community of people spanning the globe who practice knitting mats out of plastic. “The very first time that I heard mats like this existed, I was reading about a nonprofit in Australia, and from there I was curious, ‘Has this been done in Colorado?’” said Magalong. “I found out there were a couple of individuals who had done that years ago, and so I ended up finding contact information of an older woman who I had the pleasure of speaking with.” The woman offered guidance and foreshowed the community effort she would need. But Magalong wasn’t new to the world of charitable giving and environmental consciousness. Throughout her life, her family instilled those values, preparing her for the challenges to come. “This is definitely a big community effort because you have to collect the bags and find those donations, and then you have to process the bags,” said Magalong. Under the stewardship of her parents, Magalong was taught the importance of environment and community. They would take her to volunteer at church and during supper would impart the importance of conservation by making her eat all her vegetables. These lessons would shape her as an adult and compel her to help and change the community and environment. “I give a lot of credit to my parents; we’ve always been a very community-centric type of family,” said Magalong. “Even when I was very little, I was volunteering at my church,” she added. “I’ve just noticed that pattern about myself. I feel the most fulfilled when I’m reaching out to the community and I have that interaction with them.” With the help of volunteers, Magalong’s goal to educate about and practice repurposing household items gained enough traction for her to consider extending the project to other cities. “I definitely want to continue [focusing on] local, but again I have been bouncing ideas of how can I make this bigger. Even if that lasts for another few months, I think that’s what I’ll continue to do,” said Magalong. ■ September 2020 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL FEATURE “SOLIDARITY, NOT CHARITY” MUTUAL AID OF DENVER BY PAULA BARD “We see [the unhoused] as human beings who deserve respect and dignity, and we want to give them that.” — Alex JO JO DELIVERS GALLONS AND GALLONS, and more gallons of water to more than half a dozen water and hand-washing stations sprinkled throughout the homeless encampments north of downtown Denver. Several times a week he hauls water on his bicycle. A bright-eyed and fit young man in his early 30s, Jo Jo grew CREDIT: PAULA BARD up in Denver. As Jo Jo explained, “I remember going to Food Not Bombs when I was 16 to help out, and there was a dude that was serving. He really influenced me. You do this work because it is what you do. It just feels right.” From there, Jo Jo was led to a bicycle collective called Derailer. He also discovered the punk world, and he hopped a few freight trains along the way. Eventually, he spent a decade in the music scene, traveling and “playing shows.” “So, when I was introduced to Mutual Aid work, it just It feels meaningful; it’s easy work helping made sense. people,” Jo Jo said. “I’ve often seen charity work as something that you do for recognition; the opposite of that would be you do something for solidarity because it’s the right thing to do. Solidarity, not charity,” he added. CREDIT: PAULA BARD MUTUAL AID OF DENVER The seeds of Mutual Aid of Denver (MAD) were planted when a few friends got together last fall to look at what they could do to meet the needs of their community. As the pandemic rolled through Denver during the spring, and the homeless encampments swelled, the needs of the unhoused became paramount. During the pandemic, there was no sanitation for thousands living on the streets. And then, in the sizzling heat of summer — no water. Denver was simply not providing basic necessities for those vulnerable citizens losing jobs and housing, those forced out on the streets. MAD jumped in and helped set up port-a-potties. Then they hand-built and welded hand-washing and water stations throughout the encampments. Water is a literal lifesaver for the residents carving a precarious existence on the streets where temperatures regularly reach into the 100s. They are currently working on a very clever, inexpensive, hand-built, shower setup ($25, without the shower curtain). As Alex, a member of MAD, explained, “We believe that you need to directly talk to the people who you’re trying to give aid to. Ask them what they need or want, rather than assume for them. “None of the folks in MAD have been unhoused, but we go directly to the encampments and don’t like, force anyone to talk to us, you know? We just ask people how they are and if they could use anything. We ask them if there is anything CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD they need. Or, what would make their life, living in an encampment, safer or more comfortable? And then, we provide these things for them. “I think for a perspective on charity, it’s one of assuming that you know what’s best for the people you’re trying to give aid to, and not asking what they need or want. We don’t agree with that,” she added. MAD assistance comes with no strings attached. According to Alex, “We try not to project our ideals on to anyone. Of course, we hope folks recognize that it’s separate from the state and, therefore, more alternative types of, I guess community engagement, then what is socially normal. But we don’t project any religion on anyone or anything like that. Whereas, a lot of the charities do, and the shelters do too.” A WELL-WORN PATH Mutual aid organizations have historically distinguished themselves from charities. Other than churches, mutual aid networks were the most popular associations in the U.S. 8 DENVER VOICE September 2020 LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: PAULA BARD throughout the mid-nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Hispanic miners in Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico participated in mutual aid networks. Generally, miners were characterized by solidarity and maintained a strong aversion to philanthropy. Hard-rock and silver miners created benefit societies to ensure that they did not rely on charity. The striking miners of that era were fierce and proud men who guarded their independence. With mutual mid societies, they provided assistance for themselves, preserved their dignity, and were able to fight for safe working conditions and livable wages. By providing medical care and stike benefits, they helped solidify the labor movement. Mutual aid societies provided women’s health care, and many exclusively Black organizations provided care for members, particularly in New Orleans. By the turn of the century, mutual aid provided hospitals, doctors, disability insurance, and sick leave for workers. There were explicitly Hispanic and Indigenous mutual aid networks. In Florida, Cuban and Spanish cigar workers were covered. AND NOW? Mutual aid assistance now comes in many forms, and more mutual aid societies have stepped up all over the country. Mutual aid is said to come alive, especially, when central authority begins to break down and becomes less able to sustain citizens. People tend to come together to form networks, share resources, and support each other — out of necessity. Occupy groups, in cities around the country, beginning in the fall of 2011, utilized mutual aid networks to provide themselves with what they needed: shelter, food, medical care, music, protection. Many of the participants carried these cooperative skills forward when the Occupy groups disbanded. The DC Mutual Aid network is an example of a multifaceted support network. It grew out of Black Lives Matter - DC. It has evolved to tackle gentrification issues, provide food sustenance, support for victims of domestic violence, and support for seniors, children, and the vulnerable in public housing and the unhoused. In keeping with the historic mutual aid focus, there is no centralized leadership. This movement grew out of the need to listen to the community and step up with support. They actively debate best practices. Their Facebook page describes their mission as, “Protecting each other, not policing each other.” Closer to home in Colorado, mutual aid networks have grown all over the state: Front Range Mutual Aid, Mutual Aid in Colorado Springs, Grand Junction Mutual Aid, and Western Slope Mutual Aid all see their role a bit differently but provide essential assistance to their local communities. ■ “We like to meet folks at their level, and yeah, see what they might need, right where they’re at.” — Alex CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD September 2020 DENVER VOICE 9

INTERNATIONAL STORY COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INSP.NGO COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INSP.NGO SLAVE TO THE ALGORITHM BY CHER TAN Shalini Kantayya’s new documentary Coded Bias is a deep dive into the algorithms that are increasingly shaping the way we live our lives. It makes clear the fact that, contrary to popular opinion, technology is not neutral. The reality is that its biases are working their way into every part of our daily lives — and often with negative consequences. IN MARCH 2016, Microsoft released a bot that made its debut across apps like Twitter. The technology company hoped the bot, named Tay, would gain “conversational understanding”— meaning that the more a human being chatted with it, the smarter it would get. But as a result of Tay’s programming (Microsoft did not implement key safeguards), it proved easy for people to feed it offensive content. Within 24 hours of its launch, Tay was shut down as its content morphed from “Humans are super cool!” to dozens of misogynistic, racist, and fascist tweets. While Tay remains a rudimentary example of how AI can backfire, a bigger question lies in whether technology is able to detect biases inherent within its own codes — particularly if they are created by a group of people who don’t reflect the diversity of the global population. As software algorithms become increasingly allencompassing, who will end up bearing the consequences of their discrimination? Enter Coded Bias, a new documentary by the award-winning Brooklyn-based filmmaker Shalini Kantayya, which highlights the insidious ways technology further entrenches the racial- and gender-based prejudices already present in society. “All of my work as a filmmaker explores how disruptive technologies make the world less or more fair… [But] I don’t think I was prepared to fall that far down the rabbit hole,” Kantayya says when asked about the impetus behind her documentary. “It really was this incredible discovery.” COURTESY OF THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA / INSP.NGO Coded Bias takes viewers on this same path. It follows the journey of MIT computer scientist Joy Buolamwini from her shocking initial discovery of the flaws inherent in Amazon’s Rekognition software (where she had to put on a white mask for her African-American face to be detected) to her founding of the Algorithmic Justice League (AJL), an organization that works to highlight the social implications and harms of AI. This is juxtaposed with talking-head interviews with data rights experts such as Safiya Umoja Noble, Zeynep Tufekci, and Weapons of Math Destruction author Cathy O’Neil, all of whom are engaged in similar battles for a freer technological landscape. The documentary makes plain the fact that Big Tech has a hold on everyday life. Often marketed under the guise of “connection”, “community” and “convenience”, platforms such as Facebook and Google (to name but two) harvest individual data that is then sold to advertisers, government institutions, such as the FBI, and other corporations. “Algorithms can impact things like who gets hired, who gets healthcare, who gets into college, who gets a longer prison sentence,” Kantayya says. “They’re already making such important decisions about human destiny. Computers are not unbiased, and we’ve sort of put them in the position of being our gods.” Numerous case studies in Coded Bias underscore this. In what is referred to as “algorithmic determinism” — where an algorithm makes uniform decisions regardless of its variables — Daniel Santos, a schoolteacher in Houston, received a damning evaluation despite his consistent track record of excellence. Further afield, a facial-recognition trial deployed by police in Britain saw Black teenagers get mistaken for wanted felons. In China, a burgeoning social credit system threatens to take over every facet of a citizen’s life. Through what O’Neil terms “algorithmic obedience training”, facial recognition is required for even mundane activities like shopping and taking the train. The system delivers a “score”, and “rights” can be withdrawn depending on the score. The fact that there is barely any regulation around the inner workings of AI is cause for concern. “We don’t have basic understanding and literacy around these algorithms that we use every day and how they impact our lives,” Kantayya explains. “The truth is that we actually need the space to be regulated the way television is regulated.” Indeed, if structural inequalities such as racism are “becoming mechanized [and] robotized”, as apartheid historian Patric Tariq Mellet says in the documentary, what can individuals do to reverse this? Kantayya has her answer: “I think the only way is through laws. A small group of people can make a difference. I’ve seen that with my allies in the making of the film.” It’s undeniable: the rigorous campaigning that Buolamwini engages in throughout Coded Bias saw its fruits in June this year when the United States introduced legislation to ban federal use of facial recognition. AJL’s work has also resulted in Microsoft recently stating that it will not sell facial recognition software to police departments until laws regulate it and Amazon setting a one-year pause on the sale of facial recognition code. “This is a sea change that we never thought was possible when I started making the film,” Kantayya continues. “And it happened because of the women in my film. We owe them a debt of gratitude. “I hope this is what people glean when they watch the film: that a small group of people can make a big change.” ■ Courtesy of The Big Issue Australia / INSP.ngo 10 DENVER VOICE September 2020 IN YOUR OWN WORDS WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES Each month, the Denver VOICE publishes a selection of writing from workshops sponsored by Lighthouse Writers Workshop. The Hard Times Writing Workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. This workshop is open to all members of the public—especially those experiencing homelessness. Contact the Lighthouse Writers Workshop for details about virtual Hard Times writing workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times The Lighthouse sponsored workshop at The Gathering Place is specifically for that organization’s clients. To check out more writing by the poets featured in this column, go to writedenver.org. MYRA NAGY BED IN TOW HOWARD S. ZAREMBA PAJAMAS ON THE PORCH We roam around Wanting a place to belong Lots of strangers Crowds sing their song. Bag in tow Bed in bag Searching for food Someone provides a tag. Tags are lists Of places to go For food, for showers And faces you know Now you are one With the scattered community Everyone is helpful They rely on unity All share the same name Homeless but in search Looking for a home Somewhere to perch We watch each other’s stuff And share our food It’s a well-oiled community Regardless of the mood We are safe together In large numbers We are all different But do not encumber It is year seven of the pandemic, and a confluence of mutated viruses and unknowable diseases have spread across all national borders creating a global viral soup. The most desperate, suffer from isolation so great, that connection and physical touch are now too distant and suspect. The streets are filled with decaying carcasses of those broken by the endless promise of more plague. Suddenly, a door swings open, and in tattered pajamas and slippers, poor creature, a barely recognizable form, atrophied limbs, a sunless pallid demeanor and hanging wasted flesh, makes its way slowly, painfully to the edge of the, porch. No longer able to recall a pre-plague image of themselves, or grasp a thread of hopeful possibility, they stand and let out a defiant howl, a final remnant of a once “sacred humanity.” They exclaim, to any within earshot, “I was once a human being and I will not descend further into a shadow of digital light, cold touch, garbled chatter and lost communication.” Those last and lost, their proclamation complete, manage a few more steps into the unfamiliar and lifeless streets, before the viral ooze surrounds, penetrates and crushes them, and they crumple into a lifeless heap. And those still behind closed doors, peeking through heavy curtained windows, stare at each other and do not, cannot not come to aid, as they know what fate will hold. PRESENTED BY: September 2020 DENVER VOICE 11

INTERNATIONAL STORY THE HIDDEN IMPACT OF CORONAVIRUS ON TRAVELLER COMMUNITIES BY VANESSA HEASLIP AND JONATHAN PARKER It is now well known that the COVID-19 virus is affecting minority groups on a disproportionate level. It’s clear that this disease heightens existing inequalities. Some of the most marginalized people in the UK are Gypsy and Roma Travellers, yet they are often left out of research and outreach programs. Two experts in social welfare and health at Bournemouth University seek to redress the balance. WE KNOW WELL BY NOW that coronavirus does not affect everyone equally. In England and Wales, Black people are four times more likely to die from COVID-19 than white people, while people from a Bangladeshi background are twice as likely. Coronavirus has also had a disproportionate effect on people experiencing poverty. It’s clear that this disease heightens existing inequalities. Some of the most marginalized people in the UK are Gypsy and Roma Travellers, yet they are often left out of research and outreach programs. We do not currently know the rates of death and severe illness among these communities. And without better data about their experiences of COVID-19, the true impacts of the pandemic on Traveller communities could remain dangerously hidden. HEALTH INEQUALITIES Gypsy and Roma Travellers are not a homogeneous group, but rather consist of different communities with diverse needs. Even within the same community group, there can be many varied experiences of living through the pandemic depending upon personal, social, and environmental factors. That said, research indicates that the continuing COVID-19 pandemic will be extremely challenging for many individuals within the disparate communities. The last census in 2011 noted that 76 percent of Travellers in England and Wales lived in houses or apartments. This offers the least challenging experience, as people have access to basic amenities such as electricity, gas, sanitation and water supplies. Those living in caravans, however, are likely to experience more difficulties. A 2019 Houses of Commons briefing paper noted there were 22,662 Traveller caravans in England, of which 57 percent were on private sites, 29 percent were on local authority sites and 14 percent were on caravan sites. There are increased challenges for those living on these sites during the pandemic, including accessibility of gas bottles, sewerage, and obtaining fresh water. Those living on unauthorized sites experience the most significant problems, especially in accessing suitable sanitation, and waste disposal. Discriminatory policies towards these communities have meant that sites, whether they are provided by a local authority or privately run, are more likely to be located close to motorways, major roads, railways, refuse tips, sewage works and industrial estates, all of which are damaging to the health of people who live there. It is perhaps not surprising therefore, that Travellers have a worse health status than the wider community average, dying between seven to 20 years earlier than the rest of the population. A review across five regions in England and Wales noted that 66 percent of Gypsy and Roma Travellers had bad, very bad, or poor health. Poor air quality, proximity to industrial sites, asthma, and repeated chest infections in children and older people were noted in around half of all interviews undertaken for the review. Health access is incredibly difficult for people in these communities, which means that such problems are often not picked up until much later in the illness trajectory, leading to poorly managed chronic conditions. As COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease, this places them in a precarious position – many will meet the criteria for high or moderate risk. THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL DISTANCING As well as physical health impacts, we also know that there are mental health consequences that come from the COVID-19 pandemic. These too are likely to disproportionately affect Traveller communities. These communities often have a very strong family culture, and many live in large, extended family groups. This culture is an important protective mechanism against the harsh stigma and discrimination they face in wider society. A desire to roam and travel is also deeply embedded as a core part of the identity of Travellers. The distancing measures enacted in response to coronavirus reduce social contact within communities as well as people’s ability to be nomadic and roam. Both of these factors have implications for the longterm mental health and well-being of people within these communities in which mental ill-health is on the increase. RAELENE JOHNSON. CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA AT SOME POINT IN YOUR LIFE, you have to take responsibility for yourself! You can’t keep blaming others for how you act now. Yes, we all have pain from the past, but do you choose to stay stuck in it and pass it on to others? People in pain can only pass it onto others. Even if they don’t mean to. They just do. Things like being homeless for years can break a person down, leave them believing they are no good, worthless, or whatever negative thoughts someone might have about homeless people without caring to find out why or what happened to cause it. If you feel the world is against you, then you send that feeling of worthlessness out to the universe. On the other hand, if your self-worth is positive you get that back. I’m grateful today that I have peace. True peace. Too bad I didn’t find it until my late 50s. I’m grateful today for a home and for having true friends that trust me. I trust them not to ever hurt me. That is the best peace I know. When they know your past but see you how you’ve truly changed, and they say to you they didn’t know you then, and that the person they see before them is someone they’re proud to call their friend! I’m grateful for the Denver VOICE who saw me, a lost person worth helping, by giving me an opportunity to vend the paper. It changed my life. If you are reading this, thank you for supporting the VOICE. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know all our vendors also thank you. Your support around the world has changed our lives. Peace with self is the best happiness there is! So, if you don’t have true happiness, then please find it before it’s too late. Do not share pain. Instead, live a life of happiness, and share that! ■ A YOUNG ROMA PULLS A TROLLEY AS HE LEAVES WALKING PAST CARAVANS AFTER THE EVICTION OF ROMA FAMILIES FROM THEIR ILLEGAL CAMP IN LILLE SEPTEMBER 11, 2013. FRENCH POLICE EVACUATED SOME 30 CARAVANS AND THEIR OCCUPANTS WHO RESIDED IN AN ILLEGAL CAMP OF AROUND 500 TRAVELLING PEOPLE AND ROMA IN NORTHERN FRANCE. REUTERS/PASCAL ROSSIGNOL 12 DENVER VOICE September 2020 A LACK OF DATA As well as widespread stigma, a major difficulty in truly understanding the impact of coronavirus on these communities is a lack of systematic data collection. While Gypsy and Roma Travellers were recognized as a distinct ethnic minority category in the last census, the NHS does not currently incorporate this category into their ethnicity data. As such, individuals are not identified in health services as originating from these communities. Nor are they included as a specific ethnicity in Public Health England’s reports on COVID-19 health disparities. Instead, they are merged into the category of “any other white background”. Unless this is addressed at a national level, the health impact of coronavirus on these marginalized communities will remain hidden. ■ GRATEFUL FOR PEACE BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR EVENTS YOGA IN THE PARK Join The River for outdoor yoga classes all summer long! Please meet at the Great Lawn on the west side of park near 14th and Bannock, just south of the McNichols Civic Center Building. Please wear a mask at all times to respect the health and safety of everyone. Registration is required: weseektheriver.com/schedule. WHEN: Monday – Thursday through September, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. COST: $10 and free on Tuesdays WHERE: Civic Center Park – Colfax & Broadway MORE INFO: facebook.com/TheRiverYoga SCULPTURE PARK FITNESS SERIES Denver Arts & Venues is partnering with local fitness studios and cultural arts organizations to bring you a full schedule of workouts from meditation and dance-inspired classes to heart-pumping cardio and boot camps. Face coverings are required for this event. WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays through September, various times. COST: $17 per class WHERE: Sculpture Park – enter on Champa St. between 13th St. and Speer Blvd. MORE INFO: artscomplex.com LOST SUMMER MUSIC SERIES Every weekend, the crew at Zeppelin Station will be creating a vibey eating/drinking experience by bringing your favorite local artists, DJs, and musicians to their enhanced outdoor patio. WHEN: Fridays and Saturdays until September 18, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Zeppelin Station – 3501 Wazee St. MORE INFO: facebook.com/ZeppelinStation RINO FALL BAZAAR Denver BAZAAR returns to RiNo this Fall, bringing the best artists and crafters together for a shopping and sipping party at Zeppelin Station. Masks are required. WHEN: Sep 12, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sep 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Zeppelin Station – 3501 Wazee St. MORE INFO: facebook.com/DenverBazaar HANDMADE IN COLORADO EXPO The 12th annual Handmade in Colorado Expo is a juried event showcasing some of Colorado’s best fine art and contemporary craft. The event will feature a vast array of independent designers producing original handcrafted goods from a wide array of media including metal, paper, glass, fiber, clay, gems, and more. Live local music will round out this free event. WHEN: Sep 18 and 19, 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Sep 20, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. COST: Free entry WHERE: Skyline Park – 1600 Arapahoe St. MORE INFO: handmadeincolorado.com September 2020 DENVER VOICE 13 ACROSS 1. Suffix in some city names 5. Inscribed pillar 10. Invitation request 14. On the briny 15. Eye color 16. On the safe side, to a sailor 17. Giving up one’s own needs on behalf of others 20. Betting option 21. Experts 22. The “turf” in surf and turf 23. A pint, maybe 24. Coming back up 31. Malicious 35. Atlanta-based airline 36. Comply with 37. Punjabi princess 38. “Gimme ___!” (start of an Iowa State cheer) 39. “___, far, wherever you are” 40. Loaded (with) 41. Accumulate 43. Big show 44. Weevil 47. Conned 48. To the left, on a ship 52. ___ Henry’s, Tualatinbased business that was sold to Valvoline in 2015 56. Parting word 59. Period that started with the 1929 stock market crash 61. Big laugh 62. Broadcasting 63. Decorative case 64. Aims 65. Jocks’ antitheses 66. Ink decorations DOWN 1. Egyptian goddess 2. Consumers 3. Kindled anew 4. Blooper 5. Living together, with “up” 6. Boor’s lack 7. “The Snowy Day” author ___ Jack Keats 8. Hawaiian garland 9. A Little Rascal 10. Derby 11. A ___ of the tongue 12. Blow off steam 13. Coatrack parts 18. Burn the surface of 19. Brainchild 23. Drawer, e.g. 25. Joined with stitches 26. Arm bones 27. Roadwork site sight 28. Surefooted goat 29. ___ tide 30. Greek sandwich 31. Blows it 32. Conceited 33. Data 34. In ___ of (replacing) 41. With reckless ___ 42. Buffy and Faith 45. “___ Darn Cat” 46. Long narrative poem 49. Beginning 50. Indian yogurt dip 51. Rainbow ___ 52. Shrek, e.g. 53. Monopoly token 54. Show the way 55. 2006 Pixar movie 56. Practice in the ring 57. Bone-dry 58. Spanish liqueur 60. Opposite WSW COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 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

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PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs TRINITY UNITED METHODIST 1820 Broadway, meals served Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 trinityumc.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org September 2020 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 THURSDAY, 6-7:30 P.M. The Denver VOICE’s second annual Pints Fighting Poverty Pub Crawl on November 19, 2020 is an incredible opportunity to show support for those in our community experiencing homelessness and/or poverty, gain insight into the realities, and make an impact by helping us raise the funds to continue to provide economic, education, and empowerment opportunities for those we have the privilege of serving! Happening during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the evening kicks off VIRTUALLY this year with a special online guest speaker and a series of featured vendors - includes four virtual stops and a host of exclusive drink selections at some of Denver’s premier brewery and spirit locations! You can register as an individual, couple, or host a small group in your home with special group pricing packages. 100 percent of proceeds raised go toward our mission 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 during a time when need is at an all time high and the challenges of the pandemic mean your support is more important than ever before. TICKETS: DENVERVOICE.ORG/PINTSFIGHTINGPOVERTY fighting Pints poverty a fundraiser v i r t u a l 2 0 t 2 r 0 t o u r

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE FAR FROM SETTLED “WIN, “ THE JUNE 15 SUPREME COURT RULING PROTECTING LGQA+ PEOPLE FROM DISCRIMINATION AT WORK MAY BE A ” BUT IS IT ENOUGH? PAGES 6-7 SHINING LIGHT ON WIDESPREAD DISCRIMINATION REPRESENTATIVE BRIANNA TITONE, FIRST TRANS PERSON ELECTED TO STATE OFFICE IN COLORADO, FOCUSES HER 2020 SESSION ON WORKERS’ RIGHTS AND FAIR HOUSING. PAGE 8 DÉJÀ VU AS THE LOOMING TSUNAMI OF EVICTIONS HOVERS ON OUR HORIZON, IT IS WORTH A GLANCE IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR. PAGE 10 BLACK STUDENT IN A WHITE SCHOOL AS AN AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENT AT A PREDOMINATELY WHITE HIGH SCHOOL, YOU HAVE TO BREAK THE STEREOTYPE. PAGE 12 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 11, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 AUGUST 2020 | Vol.25 Issue 8 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: CREDIT: REUTERS/JONATHAN ERNST

EDITOR’S NOTE A LITTLE MORE THAN HALFWAY through the year, the insanity that appears to be a never-ending party favor that 2020 handed out upon its arrival rendered many of us exhausted. Rumor has it, Denver may undergo another shutdown due to the unrelenting spread of COVID-19. A significant percentage of the U.S. population has no jobs to return to and is facing likely eviction, job loss, and unbearable financial, emotional, and physical strain. The current political climate is intense enough to rival the sweltering heat of the desert southwest, and often, it seems one has to look hard to find any sign of human decency. I doubt I am the only one who feels so beaten down when we still have five months of 2020 remaining. This past month, as I read the drafts Denver VOICE contributors wrote for the August issue, I felt ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR grounded again. The experiences or opinions shared in this issue will not make any of us feel “all better.” If anything, these articles may reinforce a sense of powerlessness and frustration. Instead, the stories reflect the ugliness so many in our community deal with daily. No, it isn’t pleasant, but it is real, and until the rest of us finally recognize and speak out against the existence of hate and intolerance, there will never be such a thing as liberty and justice for all. ■ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg ASHIRA CAMPBELL is a proud African American woman, activist and Denver native. She enjoys photography and is looking forward to her senior year of high school. ZEPHYR WILKINS is a Denver native interested in languages, travel, culture, food, history, politics, and the human experience. After teaching abroad for more than a decade, he’s grateful to be back teaching English in the Denver metro area. VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS Paula Bard Ashira Campbell Giles Clasen Robert Davis Dean Glorso Doug Hrdlicka Pete Simon Zephyr Wilkins 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @OCE EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT editor@denvervoice.org VENDOR PROGRAM program@denvervoice.org • 303.539.7226 ADVERTISING ads@denvervoice.org MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1931, Denver CO 80201 VENDOR OFFICE 1600 Downing St., Ste. 230, Denver, CO 80218 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. OFFICE HOURS: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE August 2020 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US AUGUST CONTRIBUTORS VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: MONICA BY PAULA BARD “GOTTA HAVE SUPPORT.” “Yeah, I wanna work, having a hard time getting them to hire me anywhere. Walmart greeters, I’m overqualified, I’m like, really? Come on, I just want to work, that’s all. I’ve worked all my life! I’m on housing lists all over town, a bunch of different ones for four years. I raised five kids, mostly by myself. I single-parented a lot. I had two husbands, but they were not there a lot. One was an over-the-road truck driver, so gone a lot, and the other was in a working band, traveling, rehearsing. I had to grow up tough. I mean, moving every three and-a-half years is really tough on a kid. New people, new schools. That was really tough for me. I’m an Air Force brat. My dad had a bar here in Denver, I worked as a bartender and waitress. I’m an alcoholic, I’m trying really hard to quit drinking. It’s just slow, ya know. I’m doing really well. I’ve cut down so much it’s amazing. I still have the DTs, it hurts, it hurts your body, it hurts really bad sometimes. I had quite a few CREDIT: PAULA BARD Author’s Note: In the fall of 2015, just ahead of Colorado’s winter, Denver sent the full force of its police department and SWAT team to destroy five tiny homes that people “living without homes” had built north of downtown. Something in me snapped: Denver is behaving like a bully! Denver has more than 6,000 people without homes, and more than 3,000 trying to survive on its streets. It is an ugly business. In 2012, Denver passed an urban-camping ban making it illegal for the homeless to protect themselves with “any form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.” Violations can bring a $999 fine or a year in jail. I began walking those streets where the homeless are trying to survive, photographing the faces and collecting the stories of those my city has abandoned. So began OUR Streets – stories of Denver’s unhoused residents. sober years under my belt. It just, I don’t know, some reason or another, I fall back. I have friends that I can stay with now, friends that keep me safe. [My rape last year] was pretty traumatic. I don’t like to talk about it too much cuz it just makes my anxiety go way high. Gotta have support. My friends, we can talk about how we feel. We help each other out in this aspect. We’re empathetic, and we know what each of us is going through, so we help in whatever way we can. Make it easier on each other.” ■ HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. August 2020 DENVER VOICE 3

ASK A VENDOR The idea for this issue’s Ask a Vendor question came when Carolyn Tyler, communications director with the Denver DA’s office, approached the VOICE to discuss how the City can work with unhoused indiviuals who are victims of or witnesses to a crime. From the responses, it is clear we have an opportunity to improve communication between law enforcement and those experiencing homelessness. Q How did you pass the time during the COVID-19 Shelter-in-Place order? A JACOB MARSH I spent it risking my life to keep my family safe and housed. JERRY ROSEN I spent it selling old issues of the Denver VOICE. I did really well. I also did some volunteer work. NATHANIAL TROTTER Working on my art. LARMARQUES SMITH I spent my time in quarantine with 4 others at a hotel. We ate, talked about many things, and made different and deeper connections. I love to sing, so we sang songs, laughed, and cried. Q Where did you stay during this time? A JACOB MARSH The White Rock Motel. JERRY ROSEN I stayed at a shelter in Boulder, as well as a few other places. NATHANIAL TROTTER Home, at my apartment. LEMARQUES SMITH At the Belcaro Hotel on Colorado Blvd. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ASK? We would like to engage more Denver VOICE vendors and readers. If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. 4 DENVER VOICE August 2020 HOUSING POLICY SUMMARY FROM 2020 LEGISLATIVE SESSION BY ROBERT DAVIS AS HAS BEEN THE CASE with so many situations, this year’s legislative session was anything but ordinary. Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, Colorado’s Supreme Court ruled the six-week recess it granted to lawmakers would count against their 120-day schedule. When lawmakers returned to Denver on May 26, they planned to cover a $3.3 billion shortfall in the state’s budget. Meanwhile, protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis were taking place throughout the state. These issues resulted in 26 percent fewer bills passing compared to 2019. Lawmakers passed 13 out of 19 bills addressing housing issues while managing to negotiate only a one-percent cut in state spending on Human Services. EVICTION PROTECTION DURING COVID In May, Governor Jared Polis issued executive order D 2020-012 limiting evictions, foreclosures, and public utility LOCAL NEWS 2020 PIT COUNT SHOWS INCREASE IN HOMELESSNESS BY ROBERT DAVIS ACCORDING TO THE 2020 POINT IN TIME COUNT, 4171 people reported being homeless in Denver — an increase of 228 people from 2019. Volunteers with Metro Denver Homeless Initiative contacted members of the community during the last 10 days of January and distributed donations like new socks and other in-kind goods to encourage participation. The count revealed a significant decrease in the number of families experiencing homelessness. However, there were increases in chronic homelessness, those living unsheltered, and unaccompanied youth. Less than half of the community reported living in the city’s shelters. Outreach teams were only able to record 30 percent of the data even though MDHI’s said “this year’s volunteers focused more on connecting with those staying outdoors than in the past.” The remaining data was taken from the Homelessness System (HMIS), Management Information a disconnections for people who could not legally travel to work under the state’s stay-at-home order. Similarly, federal lawmakers in Washington passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) Act which provided private and public funding to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. The bill also protected renters in federally subsidized housing from eviction. According to the Denver County Court, the order cut filings of new eviction proceedings in the county by more than 80 percent. However, the order did not stop the proceedings filed before the order was issued, allowing thousands of cases to move forward. To help fund these measures, Gov. Polis signed two bills, federal database the Department of Housing and Urban Development uses to calculate emergency service grants funding for service providers. MDHI cautions readers against analyzing the count for trends because this is the first year it has used HMIS in its methodology. The report’s summary credited the unusually warm weather at the beginning of the year for the accuracy of its count of unsheltered and chronically homeless. Instead, the organization drew attention to the racial inequalities its volunteers reported. This year’s count revealed nearly 40 percent of Denver’s homeless population is non-white, with Black people representing 25 percent respectively. The representation of Black people increased by four percent in 2019, even though they make up about five percent of the city’s population. “The overrepresentation of people of color, specifically black and Native Americans, among those experiencing homelessness is critical to the response,” MDHI’s Executive Director Matt Meyer said in a press release. “Homelessness is an issue of race and must be approached through this lens.” ■ H.B. 1410 and H.B. 1412. These bills allocated $30 million from the CARES Act to the state’s general fund, $19.65 million to the Housing Development Grant Fund, $10 million to a cash fund which a nonprofit partner of the Colorado Energy Office uses to provide utility assistance to households, and another $350,000 to the Eviction Legal Defense Fund. HOUSING DISCRIMINATION Several bills addressing housing discrimination were passed as a growing number of Coloradans faced housing instability. H.B. 20-1332 prohibits landlords from discriminating against prospective tenants based solely on their source of income, including housing vouchers, student loan debt, or social security income. The law also prohibits landlords from advertising their properties with preferred sources of income. However, it does not apply to landlords who own three or fewer properties. Lawmakers also passed S.B. 20-244, known as the “Immigrant Tenant Protections Act,” which prohibits landlords from asking about or taking certain actions based on a tenant’s immigration or citizenship status. The bill applies to both prospective and current tenants and goes into effect in January 2021. However, lawmakers were not able to pass H.B. 20-1333, a bill that would have required homeowners’ associations in common interest communities (CIC) to do business more transparently. CICs include condominiums, apartments, and other housing types where residents are required to pay fees for common area maintenance. Rep. Brianna Titone (D-Jefferson) sponsored the bill and argued that CIC bylaws can restrict available housing options for people of color and members of the LGTBQ+ community. RENTERS PROTECTIONS Bills such as H.B. 20-1141 and S.B. 20-108 that aimed to reform Colorado’s landlord-tenant laws never made it out of committee. H.B. 1141 would have limited fees landlords can charge tenants and require rental contracts to contain a 14-days’ grace period tenants to pay their rent. S.B. 108 would have prohibited landlords from refusing housing to immigrants based on their legal status. The law went through the amendments process several times before the Business Affairs & Labor Committee postponed it indefinitely. However, lawmakers were able to pass H.B. 20-1201 which requires owners of mobile home parks to provide tenants an opportunity to purchase their home if the owner decides to sell the land or change its use. BASIC LIFE FUNCTIONS IN PUBLIC SPACES It’s been four years since Rep. Jovan Melton (D-Arapahoe) first introduced the homeless bill of rights legislation with former Rep. Joe Salazar (D-Adams). The bill would allow those experiencing homelessness to sleep in legally parked cars, eat in public, and reserve a reasonable right to privacy. Still, the legislature has yet to pass the bill. This year, Melton and Rep. Adrienne Benavidez (D-Adams) cosponsored legislation aimed at creating LOCAL NEWS In 2019, the No on 300 campaign solicited over $2 million in donations from businesses like The National Association of Realtors, The Downtown Denver Partnership, and Denver’s tourism agency—Visit Denver—to defeat Initiative 300, also known as the Right to Survive. Initiative 300 (I300) would have given unhoused persons basic rights such as eating and sleeping in public and allow them to sleep in their cars if they are legally parked. Those who opposed I300 said the initiative didn’t go far enough to address the health and safety concerns of unhoused communities or of the communities that would share space with unhoused persons. “We love Denver and want our city to be a safe and supportive place for everyone. Allowing people to sleep outside in public places is not safe, healthy, or helpful for the people experiencing homelessness or our community,” Together Denver wrote on their website. CHRISTOPHER SAID HE PREFERS TO SLEEP IN A TENT TO A SHELTER BECAUSE HE HAS PRIVACY AND FEELS SAFER IN A TENT. HE SAID YOU ARE MORE LIKELY TO GET SICK OR ATTACKED IN A SHELTER. HE ALSO SAID HE WOULD BE WILLING TO MOVE TO A CAMP SITE DESIGNATED BY THE CITY OF DENVER IF THEY SET IT UP CORRECTLY. HE DID NOT WANT TO MOVE TO A PLACE THAT FELT LIKE A PRISON. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN protections for those performing “life functions” on public property or occupying a legally parked car to sleep. H.B. 20-1233 defines life functions as eating, sleeping, sitting, standing, lying down, or sheltering in a nonobstructive manner. It would also require a peace officer or municipality to prove there is adequate shelter for its homeless population before either can remove a homeless person from public property. The bill never made it out of committee. ■ MAYOR HANCOCK ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR SAFE OUTDOOR SPACES BY ROBERT DAVIS HOMELESS PEOPLE IN DENVER breathed a sigh of relief when Mayor Michael Hancock announced his administration is working with the Colorado Village Collaborative to create a long-awaited temporary, safe outdoor space. And the Mayor seems eager to complete the project relatively soon. In July, he asked City Council to come up with a list of potential sites for the safe outdoor space. The Denver Coliseum has been shortlisted. “I’m hopeful we can provide a new pathway that leads to more stable housing options for people experiencing homelessness,” Mayor Hancock said in a press release. “At the same time, we can also address the public health and safety risks that the growing number of encampments in our city are posing to our neighborhoods.” The outdoor space will not include any permanent structures. Instead, it will be a neutral site where homeless people can rest and use the resources and services provided by the City and Colorado Village Collaborative. Some of the resources include mobile restrooms, hand washing stations, laundry services, and places to get clean water. Residents will receive daily wellness screens while mental health professionals and service workers provide hotel and housing referrals. “In moments of great crisis, great societies respond by centering the needs of their most vulnerable citizens,” said Cole Chandler, director of the Colorado Village Collaborative. “Our peer cities across the country have demonstrated that safe outdoor spaces provide a resource-rich environment for unhoused neighbors to safely survive the global pandemic while creating longer-term links to health care and housing.” Homeless service providers had initially pitched the safe outdoor space idea to Mayor Hancock’s team in April. But the administration dragged its feet until statewide COVID cases began to increase just before the 4th of July weekend. A LONG TIME COMIN’ While the safe outdoor spaces are not currently being considered as permanent solutions to the city’s homeless problem, they do represent a step that’s taken Denver over 16 years to make. “Safe outdoor sites, while vital in our immediate need, are not the final answer,” Denver Homeless Out Loud said in a press release. “Everyone deserves housing. As we create immediate options for people to survive in tents now, the City must be creating attainable housing for all.” In 2004, activists submitted the first tent city proposal to the Commission to End Homelessness. The 39-page report outlined several ways in which tent cities could benefit Denver’s unhoused population, including centralizing service delivery, providing sanitation and privacy, and allowing for self-help peer governance. “Tent cities are no alternative to expanding permanent low-cost housing or providing quality emergency support and shelter that might transition homeless people into independent housing. But the choice is not between a tent city and adequate permanent housing. The choice is between allowing a tent city and forcing people into inhumane living conditions without any kind of shelter at all,” the report reads. However, the tent city initiative was met with fierce criticism from The Denver Post, The Rocky Mountain News, and the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, who said the plan “fails to address health, safety, sanitary issues and [the] causes of homelessness such as mental illness, substance abuse, job loss, and the lack of affordable housing.” Then, during the Occupy Denver protests in 2011, former John Hickenlooper, Denver Mayor Michael SUCCESS STORIES Meanwhile, other cities in Colorado have figured out how to put together successful safe outdoor spaces for their unhoused communities. In September 2019, Durango opened the Purple Cliffs camp, a 200-acre plot of county land allocated for the city’s unhoused community. The camp is located in an area where coronavirus has not spread very far and currently houses several unhoused persons living in La Plata County. County officials are working on moving the camp closer to town so residents can be nearer to essential services. And then about six hours north of that area, Pitkin County opened a camp in Aspen at Brush Creek after a local shelter shut down. Even though the county doesn’t see the camp as a permanent solution to homelessness, it provides residents with a place to abide by the state’s Shelter in Place and Safer in Place orders, according to Nan Sundeen, director of Pitkin County Human Services. “Given our extreme weather conditions up here, we knew we needed to act to get our homeless the help they need,” Sundeen told the Denver VOICE in an interview. She says Pitkin County has learned a lot from Durango’s camp, including the importance of being flexible as the camp evolves, and setting enforceable guidelines for campers. Residents at Brush Creek must adhere to quiet hours between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m., are not allowed to bring guests to the camp, and will be immediately evicted for violent acts of any kind. Campers are allowed to leave the camp at any time. Since the camp’s founding, county workers have had to turn away some unhoused individuals who travel up the I-70 corridor and recreational campers who want to visit the camp. Doing so helps save room and resources for Pitkin County’s unhoused residents, Sundeen said. The camp is managed by a trusted camp member and is regularly visited by volunteers for food delivery, mental health workers, and caseworkers who help those some members cope with living in a communal setting. County employees campers to discuss living conditions and whether also hold regular meetings with there is anything else the county can do to support the campers. Some volunteers from Aspen even built a small solar module for Governor Hancock, and former Attorney General John Struthers teamed up to disperse a tent city of protesters from the downtown area. Mayor Hancock said during a press conference at the time that the policy was about protecting the health and safety of the protesters. Health and safety are now synonyms for justification as Denver continues its practice of sweeping unhoused communities away from resources and voting down policies that seek to aid its most vulnerable residents. campers to be able to charge their phones and electronics. “We obviously don’t want to evict anyone from the camp because they don’t have another place to go. However, we define safe behavior very clearly because we want all of our campers to feel safe,” Sundeen said. Even though Sundeen describes the camp as being in the midst of a “What happens next?” phase, she says there is plenty that Denver can glean from Pitkin County’s experience. “If there is any advice I’d offer Denver, it’s this: be flexible and communicate with your residents. That’s the only way these campsites will work,” she said. ■ August 2020 DENVER VOICE 5

NATIONAL STORY MATTHEW BRADFORD. PHOTO PROVIDED BY MATTHEW BRADFORD WHAT THE SUPREME COURT DECISION ABOUT LGBTQIA+ RIGHT TO WORK ACTUALLY REVEALS BY ZEPHYR WILKINS “SURREAL.” This was the most common response from members of our city’s beloved Denver Gay Men’s Chorus (DGMC) and Denver Women’s Chorus (DWC) in regards to the Bostock v. Clayton County Supreme Court ruling on June 15 which protects LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination at work. The ruling was handed down as the nation grapples with a rising death toll from coronavirus, an unemployment rate climbing to Great Depression levels, and a president more intent on protecting statues of Confederate traitors from vandalism than protecting Black and Brown human beings from police brutality. Any type of “progress” under these circumstances would be jarring. Perhaps it is for this reason that most chorus members were thrown when they got the push notification on their phone that the decision had been made. “I was not even aware that the Supreme Court was considering, let alone going to issue, a ruling for any outstanding LGBT cases,” stated Matthew Bradford from the DGMC. TJ Kizuka, Bradford’s chorus compatriot, agreed. “For me, the ruling on marriage equality was such a huge day…I was with many of my LGBTQ+ friends at the time, so it really mentally struck me in a bigger way than this ruling. I think also there were less hard-hitting distractions in our nation at the time, so [the marriage equality ruling] was easier to follow.” But the jolting surprise of the ruling doesn’t affect their ability to understand its historical significance. “I would love that this — along with the Stonewall Riots, the Pulse Massacre, marriage equality, Harvey Milk, Marsha P. Johnson, and other notable LGBTQ+ moments — were included in textbooks and history lessons for America’s youth,” Kizuka said. Even if this doesn’t come to fruition, it will still have a profound effect on millions of lives because, like Bradford, who works in human resources, pointed out: companies across the U.S. will now be reviewing their existing policies and, in the process, may find they need to make adjustments in their employment practices. To be clear, this ruling does not require them to rewrite their policies by adding “sexual orientation” or “gender identity” to the policies they already have. Rather, the ruling states that LGBTQIA+ rights have been protected since 1964 when Title VII of the Civil Rights Act forbade employers from discrimination “because of [an employee’s] race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.” Denver-born Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, who wrote the majority opinion on this case, argued that an “employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or the AIDS crisis, transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex.” Gorsuch gives an example. If an employer fires a man for loving a man but doesn’t fire a woman for loving a man, then the employer is discriminating against the male employee because of his sex; that is illegal. Thus, because the ruling indicated that the term “sex” in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act includes both gender identity and sexual orientation, companies will not have to rewrite their policies to include these terms. What, then, do HR departments across the U.S. need to focus on? Drawing on personal experience, Madison Kuebler of the DWC provided insight. Like many LGBTQIA+ people across the country, Kuebler “hid in plain sight.” As a result, she had to endure the pain when “employers [would] say hateful things about LGBTQIA+ folx in front of me.” She also felt guilt and shame from being “disingenuous” with her friends and colleagues out of fear of being fired. Situations where LGBTQIA+ people “come out” to employers and colleagues that say hateful things about them are a potential powder keg; if not handled properly, the result could be disastrous. As such, Bradford believes companies should review their approaches to employee retention, risk 6 DENVER VOICE August 2020 NATIONAL STORY them see that the LGBTQIA+ [people] in their workplace have been treated unfairly,” this is not the most likely outcome. “Often, when rights or protections are provided to marginalized groups, we do see backlash or failure to uphold the law,” Cruz-Teixeria said. It’s this kind of backlash that concerns Darin Stewart of DGMC. With more people coming out of the closet, more people also are becoming isolated by those they once thought were their friends; HR departments should consider this as they update their policies. Also, with a greater number of people coming out of the closet, comes a higher number of harassment cases; HR departments should be preparing for these, as well. Worst, with more people coming out of the closet, comes a greater risk of being murdered. It is not hyperbole to say that as visibility increases, so does the body count. “Transgender activists have spoken and written about the correlation between greater trans visibility and violence against trans women, particularly Black trans women and other trans women of color,” Stewart said. It is called a culture war for a reason. Anytime your identity is the focus of a culture war, it is more prone to being collateral. “Rights might bring inclusion but they don’t bring liberation,” said Stewart. Instead, Kuebler lamented, they “give a false sense of comfort in our country to those who aren’t marginalized.” The reason for this, Steward noted, is explained by trans LGBTQ ACTIVISTS AND SUPPORTERS HOLD A RALLY OUTSIDE THE U.S. SUPREME COURT AS IT HEARS ARGUMENTS IN A MAJOR LGBT RIGHTS CASE ON WHETHER A FEDERAL ANTI-DISCRIMINATION LAW THAT PROHIBITS WORKPLACE DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX COVERS GAY AND TRANSGENDER EMPLOYEES IN WASHINGTON. CREDIT: REUTERS/JONATHAN ERNST mitigation, and discrimination whistle-blower protocols to ensure they comply with the June 15 ruling. They also should consider developing seminars to help their staff understand what anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination looks and sounds like so employees can rest assured they don’t inadvertently commit a reprimandable offense. Beyond this, establishing LGBTQIA+ affinity groups and revisiting healthcare options are also likely to be on the agenda of many HR departments in light of this ruling. Finally, some companies, like the one Denver Women’s Chorus member Natalya Cruz-Teixeira works for, are hiring diversity and inclusion officers to help navigate these potentially explosive situations. Regardless of the steps individual companies take, the Black Lives Matter protests highlight that the struggle for “equality” is not over based on a single law or court ruling. “Black lives have had full rights in this country for several decades, and yet, in practice, we see voting rights taken away, bias in the workplace, housing discrimination, [and] the simple right to live [violated],” Cruz-Teixeira said. LGBTQIA+ history reveals the same sad truth. “Unfortunately, we’ve seen circumventive behavior before from those who do not wish to see LGBT+ equality, á la Kim Davis of Kentucky, who blatantly defied her legal responsibilities of issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. So, while an employer may not explicitly fire someone for their affinity, they may invent creative ways to terminate employment,” Bradford said. Terwanda McMoore, a member of the DWC, can attest to this very thing happening. Although she did not lose her employment because of her sexual orientation, McMoore has been TERWANDA MCMOORE. PHOTO CREDIT: MIKE PAPROSKI “discriminated [against] in the past for being gay and butch.” This is despite Senate Bill 25, which was passed in 2007 and is supposed to protect her right to work. So, even though one can hope, like Kuebler, that this June 15 ruling will “put things into perspective for people and let scholar Dean Spade, who says the way we focus on “rights” prevents us from focusing on structures, and it is these structures that isolate and divide us. It’s the structures that need to be addressed to bring about full inclusion based on understanding and acceptance. But addressing structures is something that the June Supreme Court ruling fails to do. In fact, as Bradford pointed out, “While it’s a ruling in our [LGBTQIA+ person’s] favor, to be sure, it was because Title VII of the Civil Rights Act technically says ‘sex,’ not because such discrimination against humans with different affinities is wrong.” And that’s the crux of this ruling…it doesn’t advance the values that all are equal, that all deserve justice or even that employment is an essential aspect of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and thus needs to be open to everyone. No, this decision was made on the interpretation of a single word, not the bedrock of American values. Perhaps this is ultimately the reason why the ruling was so jarring and “surreal” — it pointed out the fragility of the “progress” that the LGBTQIA+ population has made, and which some, like Kizuka, “took for granted.” This time, in this particular case, a Trump-appointed judge was convinced that a single word protected the rights of millions of people. Next time there might not be such a word. It is for this reason, as Bradford observed, “We cannot become complacent. Our fight is not over until we can all enjoy the benefits and privileges of equality.” The Denver Gay Men’s Chorus and the Denver Women’s Chorus, which have entertained audiences for 38 years, not only engage with educational programming, participate in community outreach events, and partner with advocacy groups, they also build community to continuously fan the through music flames of justice. By singing inspiring anthems that represent diverse and marginalized populations, chorus members remind themselves, each other, and the greater Denver community of the American values, and lives, at stake in the current culture war. To learn more, hear them sing, and get updates on upcoming events, visit denverchoruses.org. Sarah Gumina, with the Denver Women’s Chorus, contributed to this story. ■ August 2020 DENVER VOICE 7

LOCAL STORY BRIANNA TITONE’S COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP SHINES LIGHT ON WIDESPREAD DISCRIMINATION BY GILES CLASEN REPRESENTATIVE BRIANNA TITONE is in her first term in the Colorado General Assembly. Titone grew up in the Hudson Valley in New York. She lived all over the world working as a geologist before landing in Colorado for work. Titone is the first transgender individual elected to state office in Colorado. She represents State House District 27, a district that falls predominantly in Jefferson County. Historically, the county has been conservative but has become more moderate in recent years. Titone won her 2018 election by just 439 votes, all while finishing up a master’s degree in information and communications technology from the University of Denver. Nearly 50,000 total votes were cast. Titone was instrumental in getting H.B. 20-1307 passed in the latest legislative session. Called the “gay and transgender panic defense bill,” it prevents defendants from blaming their victim’s sexual orientation or gender identity as a justification for their violent acts. Here are excerpts from my conversation with Titone, edited for length and clarity: WHEN I WAS 16, I WAS A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER, and I really got the sense of what it means to do service for your community. That mentality really stuck with me. When I was in college, I watched the attack on the World Trade Center. That was traumatic to me. That renewed my spirit to help stop bad things from happening to people and to help my community. I became interested in working for the FBI, but I was too young and inexperienced at that point. I decided to get my degrees, in science, and put some time into building professional experience. Eventually, I returned to the idea of working for the FBI. Unfortunately, I waited too long. I ended up getting too old to finish the process. The FBI ages you out at age 37. Once my 37th birthday rolled around, that was a turning point for me. If I was going to do something positive for the world — whatever that was — then I was going to have to find a different way to do it. After I got out of [the FBI selection process], I realized that I should look into myself. I should think about me for a little bit. I realized I was depriving myself of a lot of happiness because I wasn’t being my authentic self. Out of that, I ended up coming out as trans. BRIANNA TITONE. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN I didn’t really know a lot about trans people over my life because I grew up in a pre-internet childhood. The things I did see on TV were on talk shows like “The Phil Donahue Show” and Jerry Springer. And then, there were all of the jokes that permeated Hollywood for a long time. As much as I felt, as much as I wished I had grown up as a woman and not a man — that idea wasn’t available to me as a child. I didn’t know there was anything I could do about it. I didn’t have any role models or anyone to really look up to. Society kept saying [being trans] is not something that is going to be positive for you. There were so many negative perceptions on trans people that it wasn’t something I thought I could do. I thought that it would be a harder life and that it would make me into a joke. I continued my life mostly considering myself as a crossdresser because that was all that I was willing to consider for myself. I didn’t want to put myself in that category of being trans. I was afraid people would think of me — think that it is a terrible thing to be trans. I suppressed being myself for a long time. I hid it from everybody because of societal norms and the stigmas and stereotypes that trans people have to deal with, even still. It wasn’t until 2015 when I came out. Finally, I felt like there were enough resources around and people I could talk to. There were organizations that were supportive, that I never even knew existed before I got to Colorado. That is what really helped me figure things out for myself — to help me accept me for who I am. I was struggling with relationships before I came out. It was hard to find people that would accept me for who I was, even as a cross-dresser. I felt like nobody wanted me. I got people to tolerate me but never to go all-in on accepting who I wanted to express myself as. I could only be my true self behind closed doors. I didn’t go out and get to know a lot of people. I could only be myself at home. It was very eye-opening that there were people that wanted to be with me as myself. To find my wife, who really truly accepts me, is a blessing. I spent a lot of my life thinking no one would ever want me. When I came out, I found my true love. We got married in December of last year. That’s why turning 37 was such a turning point for me. If I was going to do something positive for the world, whatever that was, then I was going to have to find a different way to do it. The first thing I really realized was that I am now part of a community that is not accepted widely. I knew that it was something I could do something about. I knew I could stand up for people in this new community that I belong to. I started being an advocate first. I started working with One Colorado on some of the bills they were advocating for. Usually, you don’t set out to run for office, you have to be convinced. My race was such a sleeper. Everybody thought there was no way that I could win. Nobody really invested in it, paid attention to it. Even the Republicans didn’t fight me very much. They thought there was no way I was going to win. We did our own thing. We knocked on the doors. We had conversations with people. We made calls. We had events. We did everything you’re supposed to do to win an election, and my opponent didn’t do anything. It was kind of like “The Tortoise and the Hare.” We just kept trucking on, no matter what was thrown in our way. We beat the other side because they were napping. On election night I was losing. I was down a couple hundred votes. My opponent actually had a party for the win. But I wasn’t giving up because I knew there were a lot of votes that hadn’t come in. We chased after a lot of people at the last minute to hand in their ballots. We had a feeling [after election night] that we were going to end up more votes than the other side. It wasn’t until Thursday [two days after the election] before I had enough votes to not only get me up but also out of the need for a recount. It wasn’t official until Friday. I think a lot of people who voted for me before are on board again this year. And a lot of people are joining in who didn’t realize I am worthy of the job because of the hard work I put in. I set the bar really high. I worked extremely hard. I want to make sure nobody considers taking this position if they aren’t willing to do hard work, because that is what people will expect. I have been working to help lower housing costs for Jefferson County and all of Colorado. One of the bills I am proud of and think is a really meaningful piece of legislation is the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Bill, a bill that I sponsored. It creates a new tax credit that incentivizes builders to create affordable housing. It encourages builders to make apartments that are actually affordable. Builders don’t build housing that is affordable because it is not as profitable. This tax credit helps to fill in some of the 8 DENVER VOICE August 2020 LOCAL STORY costs associated with building affordable housing. This is not subsidized housing. Instead, the plan has an incentive and cost savings that they can build into the rent. Another bill I did last year covered rental application fees. It limited the amount a landlord could charge for a rental application. This is particularly useful for seniors or anyone looking for housing. Landlords were charging as much as $200 for an application fee. This bill limits the ability to turn a profit on applications. Housing is in very high demand, so if you had a unit available, you used to be able to take 10 or more applications, in some cases, turning a profit without renting the unit. Now, they have to take the application and rent the apartment more quickly or lose money, creating a fairer process to renters. I was also a cosponsor for the bill that allowed state workers to have collective bargaining rights. This bill was important to me because I grew up in a household that was a union household. Because of that, we had good health benefits, and my dad had a good retirement. He ended up having a good life and a good, stable family life because of the union. I believe there is a lot of benefit for workers to have collective bargaining and the strength of a union to support the needs of the people. The workers of Colorado are the backbone of our economy and what it has grown to be, so we want to make sure we are protecting workers and their families to ensure they’re not being taken advantage of. Representation really matters. It is especially critical now to have trans representation, with all of the attacks on the trans community. Having a diverse group of people with different experiences is always a benefit for any leadership body. The way the government legislates LGBTQ+ issues shapes everything for our community. The perspectives I bring can help shape how the Colorado government interacts with the LGBTQ+ community, and that shapes the way people see and perceive and interact with the community. The [gay panic or transgender panic defense bill] ended up dying in committee after we got back from the COVID recess. I was kind of shocked because the bill didn’t cost any money. There was really no reason we shouldn’t have passed it. I contacted a few of the members on the committee, and they said we are trying to cut costs down because of COVID. I said, “Have you been listening to what people have been saying outside our building?” This was right after the George Floyd and Black Lives Matter protests were getting started. For me, as a trans person, I have really begun to understand that among the trans community, Black trans women are the most vulnerable. When they were saying Black Lives Matter, it made me think about what that bill does and how it’s important that we protect Black trans women. I wrote a letter to the Senate President and the House Majority Leader to see if there was the ability to bring that bill back. I wanted to bring this bill back because I believe it is a strong statement we could make to the people outside our building, that in addition to the police reform bill, this is a bill that can protect Black lives and, in particular, Black trans lives. We started in the Senate and got it through very quickly, and we only had one “no” vote in the entire assembly. What it really symbolizes is that we value LGBTQ+ people and, with this bill, in particular, trans and Black trans people. We now join 10 other states that have banned this practice. It is symbolic of how we stand with the LGBTQ+ community, that Colorado stands with the LGBTQ+ people. We won’t accept violence against this community. We’re not giving anyone a “get out of jail free” card to inflict violence on the gay and trans community anymore. ■ LIFTED EVICTION FREEZE EXPECTED TO INCREASE HOMELESS COUNT BY DOUG HRDLICKA BRIGGS HARLAN IS A RESIDENT NEAR CHEESEMAN PARK in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. When Harlan goes to the laundry and opens the washer, there is mold inside. When he checks for mail, the need for a key is moot because, like many other doors that stand as barriers, it is damaged. His apartment building has been broken into, mail has been stolen, and other tenants have witnessed lewd behavior and skulking figures. When COVID-19 struck, it took Harlan’s job prompting him to file an unemployment claim that would similarly go the way of the job, and after two months, disappear. In the third month, Harlan tapped into his savings to cover bills, depleting the finances he had saved. Harlan’s landlord offered a differed payment plan, allowing Harlan to miss one month’s rent, but splitting the rent over the following two months. However, going back to work meant taking a pay cut that equaled less than his total bills for the month. The eviction freeze set early in the shutdown has been lifted, and those who’ve defaulted on rent because of layoffs and furloughs, are now at risk of eviction. “I have enough family in the East I could rely on,” said Harlan. “For me, moving home is worst-case. I’m lucky enough that homelessness isn’t on the table, but without them, it would be.” The eviction moratorium began in late March with the idea of freezing all eviction claims and halting nonpayment and late payment fees. The freeze had been extended multiple times, eventually finding its finish on July 13, with concern from nonprofit groups that evictions will skyrocket. “We are doing everything we can to get Coloradans back to work, but this process is gradual and must take into account the evolving public health conditions,” read the latest update on the eviction moratorium provided by Gov. Polis. “Many Coloradans continue to experience a substantial loss of income as a result of business closures and layoffs, hindering their ability to keep up with their rent or mortgage payments through no fault of their own.” The COVID-19 Eviction Defense Project was formed in March as a resource for people who have endured eviction and homelessness as a result of COVID-19. They have been anticipating the day the moratorium ends. The defense project released a study projecting that evictions will escalate to nearly 700,000 by December. According to the study, In the nine weeks since the COVID-19 state of emergency declaration, more ore than 495,000 Coloradans have filed for unemployment insurance. In the coming months, many of these Colorado renters will run out of money, and when renters run out of money, they are at risk of eviction. The study also states that by September 2020. the accumulated renters’ debt will reach 765,000,000 dollars. Also noting that marginalized members of the communities being the most likely to be affected by the end of the moratorium. “Communities of color, undocumented residents, and lowincome workers will be especially vulnerable to evictions caused by the COVID-19 emergency,” the study says. The study predicts evictions will come in three waves, with the first having begun illegally and happening to the vulnerable and financially insecure, and finishing in early to mid-winter. Although the predictions of a bleak future in housing are looming for many people, the Colorado Apartment Association tells of eviction rates at a low of 3 percent of the normal 3000 that occur each month. But that 3 percent happened during the freeze, and people like Chris Gee, also a resident of Capitol Hill, has experienced such a fate after being laid off and unable to make rent. “I have not been evicted yet; although this will most likely happen in a few weeks. My landlord is unwilling to work with me regarding a payment plan or waiting for TRUA (Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance). I was never late on rent before,” said Gee. Gee has underlining health issues that put him at high risk, and he is waiting on unemployment to come in while he looks for work. His landlord, however, has been unwilling to accommodate. “He essentially stated that I should be able to figure out how DEMONSTRATORS SHOUT AND DISPLAY SIGNS OF PROTEST WHILE DRIVING OUTSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE DEMANDING THE CANCELATION OF RENT PAYMENTS, FOLLOWING MAYOR MURIEL BOWSER’S STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION DUE TO THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK IN WASHINGTON. CREDIT: REUTERS/TOM BRENNER to and tried to probe into my finances. [He] told me, ‘where there’s a will there’s a way,’” said Gee. ■ August 2020 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD DÉJÀ VU BY PAULA BARD AS THE LOOMING TSUNAMI OF EVICTIONS hovers on our horizon, it is worth a glance in the rearview mirror. Our country survived a crisis of this scale less than a hundred years ago. The COVID-19 Eviction Defense Project estimates that 19 to 23 million, or one in five of the 110 million Americans who live in renter households, are at risk of eviction by September 30, 2020. Looking back, our history offers us an abundance of creative, resourceful models for weathering the current crisis. In the depths of the Great Depression, due to his woefully inadequate response to the country’s economic collapse, President Herbert Hoover was voted out of office. Franklin Roosevelt was voted into office in 1933. Millions had lost their homes and savings; one in four Americans was unemployed. Almost half of the banks had failed, and industrial production had plummeted by half. Bread lines and soup kitchens had sprung up across America’s cities. Farmers couldn’t harvest their crops, and had to leave their crops to rot in the fields while people went hungry. Thirteen million people were displaced during the Great Depression. Many drifted to shantytowns called “Hoovervilles,” named for President Herbert Hoover. Thousands lived along California highways, and Dust Bowl migrants were stopped at “bum blockades.” In Oakland, Pipe City, called Miseryville, 200 men lived in sections of unused sewer pipes. Thousands of homeless resided in New York City’s Central Park. Denver’s own shantytown, called Petertown, offered a marginal, cobbled-together home to many of the newly destitute in the Platte Valley. CREDIT: PAULA BARD The Civilian Conservation Corps, authorized by Congress in 1933, became one of the most popular and successful programs of Roosevelt’s New Deal. Young men (but not women) were able to sign on for six months and receive free housing, meals, health care, clothing, vocational high school, and training in trades. They were paid $30 a month; $25 of which was sent home to their impoverished families. Over nine years, almost three million men across the country worked with the CCC. From 1933 through 1942, 57,944 Coloradans joined 170 camps, living up to their motto: “Save the Soil, Save the Forests, Save the Young Men.” (Denver Post, 1958.) They lived in barracks and tents around the state. They built structures (1,278) in state and national parks, planted trees (21,848,085!), ridded farms of grasshoppers, rescued children, fortified highways and trails, and fought fires. (Robert W. Audretsch, Civilian Conservation Corps in Colorado.) Eight hundred U.S. parks display the vast legacy left by the CCC, with roads, bridges, visitor centers, water systems, CREDIT: PAULA BARD picnic areas, lodges, campgrounds, cabins, bathhouses, trails, lookouts, shelters, and comfort stations. These CCC structures still grace many of our parks here in Colorado. One of those is Red Rocks amphitheater, a local gem and one of the most ambitious and beloved in the state. Eighty years later, it would be hard to find a citizen anywhere on the front range who doesn’t fondly remember a concert or sunrise service at Red Rocks. As our current crisis grinds on, looking back can offer hope and creative solutions. We’ve been here before. ■ Update: On July 17, 2020, Governor Polis announced that the state of Colorado is budgeting $20 million in emergency rental and mortgage assistance for those whose housing has been impacted by the pandemic. Called the Property Owner Preservation Program, the funding comes from the federal CARES act targeting financial hardship. It must be spent by the end of the year. But, according to the Department of Local affairs, there is money available beyond this if it proves insufficient for local needs. Author’s Note: Thank you to the helpful people at Denver Public Library for their assistance with this article — especially Coi E. DrummondGehrig, manager, digital image sales & research, and Alejandro Alex Hernandez, research librarian. Sources: • Trials and Triumphs, A Colorado Portrait of the Great Depression by Stephen J. Leonard • America’s Parks: Cultural Landscapes of the New Deal by Susan Ives – livingnewdeal.org 10 DENVER VOICE August 2020 IN YOUR OWN WORDS WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES Each month, the Denver VOICE publishes a selection of writing from workshops sponsored by Lighthouse Writers Workshop. The Hard Times Writing Workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. This workshop is open to all members of the public—especially those experiencing homelessness. Contact the Lighthouse Writers Workshop for details about virtual Hard Times writing workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times The Lighthouse sponsored workshop at The Gathering Place is specifically for that organization’s clients. To check out more writing by the poets featured in this column, go to writedenver.org. D. GLORSO MIRACULOUS PETE SIMON ODE TO PEGGY LEE An old song “Catch a falling star And put it in your pocket Save it for a rainy day” These days song lyric May never occur to children To be absurd But why should miraculous Be discounted as we age? There is a reason Only the good die young Could it be the innocent Are keepers of miracles? While the so called realists Look to science for fact As the young Glide through the day With smiles In a make believe world Understanding the only need Marvel like a comic book Used as bibles by some Casting blame on evil Or admiring gods As the reason for all good The creator of the universe Or in fact the architect Or map maker needed To align existing stones In the voids of space According to some master plan Devised by children gone Free to think and believe Mystically No preconceived notions Is there a reason The good die young? Their minds are free From old philosophies As to how the universe is organized Wrap your minds around them Breathe in the miraculous The pure of heart The young a universal Breath of life There’s interference in the ionosphere; my receiver picking up lottsa static. No stimulus check in the U.S. Mail, poor folks singing a new verse of no breaks to be had; their numbers multiplyin like ain’t nothin else under the sun, yet stock market bells keep ding dongin along; this ain’t no time to get high, but that’s all there is Peggy Lee. PRESENTED BY: August 2020 DENVER VOICE 11

VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY When you are the only African American student in the class, other students expect you to speak up on behalf of all African American’s and their experience. It is an overwhelming weight to carry. It’s not my responsibility to educate my peers. I am there to learn, just like everyone else. The staff needs to be better prepared and ready to talk about racial issues in Colorado high schools. “I do not feel like [teacher’s adequately address race] because race is such a sensitive topic,” Johnson said. “It is definitely a hard conversation to have but they do not have any conversations about it.” If teachers better equipped white students to empathize with the African American experience then students could google on their own, watch youtube videos and learn to be a white ally to People of Color. The problem becomes bigger when the issue isn’t racial history but racist behavior. The worst is when the Hard R starts being thrown around. ASHIRA CAMPBELL. CREDIT: PORSHAI CAMPBELL BLACK STUDENT IN A WHITE SCHOOL BY ASHIRA CAMPBELL AS AN AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENT at a predominately white high school, you have to break the stereotype. The stereotype is that we African American students are loud, “ghetto,” and don’t belong with high-achieving students. These stereotypes aren’t true — but it is how I feel perceived at DSST Byers, a charter high school within the Denver Public School district, where 12 percent of the student body is black, while 48 percent is white. Many African American students participate in something called “code switching.” Some think code switching happens when an outsider acts within the norms of a dominant group to fit in and be accepted. Truly, code switching for us is trying to survive a white world. “I feel that code switching is something that you have to do honestly because you don’t want to seem too ghetto. I can’t talk a certain way, say certain words or else I live up to the Black stereotype,” Aariyah Johnson said. Johnson is a senior and African American student attending Eagle Crest High school in the Cherry Creek School District. Eaglecrest has a 51 percent white student population and a 14 percent African American student population. Johnson’s experience isn’t unique. Code switching may not seem like the biggest deal for an African American student, but it is part of an overall system that limits the success of African American students. “I feel I have to change who I am to be viewed as capable of succeeding,” said Taylor Harkley, an incoming freshman to the US Air Force Academy and 2020 graduate of Doherty High School in Colorado Springs. Doherty High School’s student population is 57 percent white, a higher percentage of white students than the Colorado average, with only 8 percent of the student population being Black. “I feel like most of the classes I take are based off of rigor, and all of my classes are predominantly white,” Harkley said. “I get certain looks, and I’m being perceived a certain way. I’m being stereotyped before you walk through the door. It’s not the most positive feeling. I do struggle with the need to prove them wrong.” The myth that an African American student isn’t capable of high achievement is still present in our Colorado schools. “I’m a student that takes AP classes, and it’s a majority of white students in those classes, Johnson said. “It is frowned upon for African American students to take AP classes. You don’t see us in those classes. I would receive comments [from teachers] like ‘Are you sure you want to do that?’ and ‘What about another class?’” The negative expectations conveyed on African American students leads to less participation in class discussions. This can limit our learning experience compared to white students. It makes us feel unwelcome in our classrooms. “In class I usually behave maturely. The way I act, compared to Caucasians, there are different kinds of consequences and outcomes. If I get an answer wrong, it looks like everyone is looking at me. I will stay quiet for the rest of class,” said Nya Johnson an incoming sophomore to Eaglecrest High School, and Aariyah’s sister. The expectation that African American students must code switch to have equal footing also creates a double standard. It means we Black students can’t be ourselves. Harkley said she frequently hears, “You’re the whitest Black person I know.” She is told other students are blacker than she is, or worse, that her behavior or the way she talks means she isn’t even African American. I have had similar experiences. The only time it feels it is acceptable to be African American in my high school is when we cover “Black History.” Unfortunately, the only time African American history is brought up is during slavery. Sadly, the history of other People of Color in the United States is completely ignored. To read a Colorado high school history book is to learn that this country was built by white men — period. 12 DENVER VOICE August 2020 The Hard R is when someone uses the N-word with the intent to hurt or cut others. It is when the N-Word is used as a weapon. Honestly, the Hard R is anytime a person of nonAfrican descent uses the N-word. The Hard R is a reminder that African Americans were once property, and to some people we still are. “This past school year there were racist things written on the bathroom stalls,” Aariyah Johnson said. “All [the administration] did was cover them with paint. They did not look for who did it. The N word with the hard R was written and curse words and a lot of negative things.” Harkley said she had experienced a student aiming the Hard R directly at her during a class. A white male student turned to her during an English class and called her the N-word. She told her teacher, and to her knowledge, there were no consequences for the white male student. Instead, she found a note on her desk with just one word, “Rat.” “My school does not address racism in an appropriate way,” Harkley said. “And in most cases, it’s not addressed at all” This is one of the problems of being a Black student in a predominately white school. Aariyah Johnson said she often doesn’t report racist comments from her classmates because in her experience, the school administration doesn’t punish the offending students. Worse is when teachers use racist language in reference to African American students. “I had a field trip with some classmates. We were going to a college and a teacher had said to us, ‘Make sure that you guys don’t dress like thugs,’” Aariyah Johnson said. The word “thug” has become, over time, a word used primarily to describe African American individuals. It is used as a replacement for the N-word. You don’t use the word thug to describe an individual with blonde hair and white skin. You don’t call white officers in blue uniforms thugs when they hurt or kill African Americans. You call them heroes and protectors. That is the problem. We live in a world where perceptions, developed early in life, influence the way we see one another for the rest of our lives. It can be very difficult to overcome these barriers once they are established in an individual’s mind. Those barriers are built by our predominantly white Colorado schools. That is why the experience of the African American student must be understood. More importantly, why it must be changed. We may be students now, but we will grow up and have an impact on the world. I want to grow up in a world where my experience as an African American student is different than the life I will have as an African American adult. Right now, that is not true. ■ EVENTS ONLINE WRITING WORKSHOPS Have you been wanting to sharpen your writing skills and/or engage with a community of fellow writers? Now is your chance! Choose from topics such as Writing 101, Introduction to Poetry, Writing and Personal Transformation, Intro to Writing The Personal Narrative and Memoir, and more. DATE: Various dates throughout August COST: Prices vary MORE INFO: Lighthouse Writers Workshop – lighthousewriters.org COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 GOLDEN TRIANGLE FARMERS MARKET Don your favorite mask and shop a variety of local vendors offering baked goods, flowers, teas, tinctures, kombucha, and ice cream. DATE: Aug 2, Aug 9, and Aug 16, 23, 30 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. COST: Free entry MORE INFO: 1115 Acoma St. – goldentrianglefm.com ACROSS FIRESIDE AT FIVE Log in for a free, virtual happy hour discussion about local and global issues with different organizations each week. This week’s topic is A Coalition for What’s Next - Where to Go from Here with Legislation and Governmental Support. DATE: Aug 4, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. COST: Free but you must register online MORE INFO: Fireside at Five – firesideatfive.com/upcoming-firesides 1. Darjeeling and oolong 5. “Ugh!” 9. What icicles do 13. Cupid’s projectile 15. Gas, e.g. (Abbr.) 16. Attorney General Janet 17. Dickens’s ___ Heep 18. Former New York City mayor Giuliani 19. Load to bear 20. Cowardice 23. Astern 25. Caribbean, e.g. 26. Little one 27. The last one left is in Bend 31. Yoga position 32. Spanish Cubist 36. Christmas season 37. Shakespearean lament 39. Arctic native 41. Overnight flights 43. Lockboxes 44. Project leaders 47. “The ___ a bucket of ashes”: Sandburg 51. Delivery vehicle 52. Sylvester, to Tweety 53. It may help with a lisp 57. A chip, maybe 58. Flatten, in a way 59. November birthstone 62. Ponce de ___ 63. Throw, as dice 64. Accused’s need 65. A bunch of 66. Vortex 67. Become unhinged DOWN 1. Letter after sigma 2. Be mistaken 3. Plato’s pupil 4. Daytime TV offering 5. Chest of drawers 6. “Being Mortal” author ___ Gawande 7. Carnival attraction 8. Insignificant bit 9. Go on and on 10. Extend, as a subscription 11. Occupied, as a bathroom stall 12. Sheriff’s group 14. Egg beaters 21. Colo. neighbor 22. Word repeated after “Que,” in song 23. With skill 24. Bread ingredient 28. Gave a signal on stage 29. Involuntary twitch MIXED TASTE: AT HOME Get your culture on at home, for free. Mixed Taste: At Home is where even the most mismatched subjects find common ground in an interactive lecture series that can go pretty much anywhere. Each evening will conclude with an original poem inspired by the topics and performed by a local poet. DATE: Aug 5, Aug 12, and Aug 19, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. COST: Free but you must register online MORE INFO: MCA Denver – mcadenver.org 30. ___-tac-toe 33. Croat, e.g. 34. Diaper fastener 35. “The Phantom of the ___” 37. Scottish cattle breed 38. Floral necklace 40. “Hey, over here!” 42. Sweeping story 43. Beethoven’s “Moonlight ___” 45. In a balanced manner 46. Feb. follower 47. Hymn 48. Breathing problem 49. Attack 50. Itsy-bitsy 54. Walked (on) 55. Grasp 56. DC bigwigs 60. Legal org. 61. Nada OUTDOOR MOVIE SERIES Come join Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse as they host a summer of cult classics, paired with themed nibbles and drinks. Attendees must bring their own chair or blanket; please refer to their Facebook page for additional social distancing requirements. DATE: Aug 13 (This is Spinal Tap) and Aug 27 (The Big Lebowski), set-up at 8 p.m., screenings at dusk COST: $5 entry; proceeds go towards Big City Mountaineers. Advanced tickets are required. MORE INFO: Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse – facebook.com/Irontondistillery August 2020 DENVER VOICE 13 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

DONORS DONOR 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+ Denver Foundation The NextFifty Initiative Help Colorado Now $10,000+ John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Community Foundation of Boulder County Jerry Conover Meek-Cuneo Family Fund $1,000-$4,999 Josh Kauer Bright Funds Network for Good Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Arc Thrift Stores Jeremy Anderson City Side Remodeling Matthew Rezek Schuster Family Foundation Russell Peterson PEN America Craig & Teresa Solomon Jim Ashe Wynkoop Brewery George Lichter Family Foundation Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Kauer Construction & Design Gaetanos Restaurant Patrick & Jan Rutty Conover/Wonder Family Fund Gaelina Tesfaye Donald Weaver Phoenix Capital $500-$999 Comedy Works Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi Jill Haug Caring Connection Alistair Davidson Paul Manoogian Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Keyrenter Property Management Denver Gaspar Terrana Travis & Margaret Ramp Elizabeth A. Mitchell Stephen Saul Leigh Bingham and Chris Forgham James Stegman William Thorland Betty & Warren Kuehner Zephyr Wilkins Celestina Pacheco ACM LLP Cuneo Law Firm Paul Hoffman Jim and Nancy Thomas Peggy Mihelich Susan B. Jonesa 14 DENVER VOICE August 2020 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 add 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 RESOURCES RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR FOOD, MEDICAL CARE, SENIOR SERVICES, YOUTH PROGRAMS, COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SHELTERS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE, HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE, AND MORE. EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG WITH CORRECTIONS OR ADDITIONS. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am denvercathedral.org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm citysquare.org DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St., VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm. dicp.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 denverrescuemission.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8am, and lunch is served at 11am frwoodyshavenofhope.org FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thurs. of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events.html FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park facebook.com/ThePeoplesPicnic HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the Month, 8-10am, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am. hislovefellowship.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am holyghostchurch.org JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee St., Tues. lunch 11:30am-1:00pm jordanamedenver.churchfoyer.com OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. stelizabethdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). sfcdenver.org ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. saintpauldenver.com ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 stpeterandmary.org SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays, 720-530-6853 soallmayeat.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ seniorsupportservices.org/programs TRINITY UNITED METHODIST 1820 Broadway, meals served Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 trinityumc.org URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thurs. dinners, 6pm-7pm lovedenver.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10am-8pm; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm & Sun. 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. denverlibrary.org/ctc THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., Mon.Fri., 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. careercenteroffices.com/center/231/denver-westside-workforce-center MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CareVan at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St., Tues. 9am-12:30pm DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. denverhealth.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri., 9am-12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. harmreductionactioncenter.org LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302. Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered. 800-522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org, liverhealthconnection.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Tues. 9am-5pm; Sat. 8am-2pm. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Dental 303-286-6755. Medical 303-286-8900. Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout St. Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. coloradocoalition.org/healthcare VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. va.gov/find-locations/facility/vha_554A5 WORKNOW 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement work-now.org DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303-447-1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 attentionhomes.org CITYSQUARE DENVER 303-783-3777; 2575 S. Broadway; Mon.-Thurs. 10am-2pm, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers citysquare.org FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more thoh.org THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, and more. tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., help with lost IDs and birth certificates holyghostchurch.org HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-community-center OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI odmdenver.org ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 55 and older. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928 urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 urbanpeak.org August 2020 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,400 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE

$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY DENVERITES, COMMUNITY LEADERS, AND BUSINESSES SHOW US THAT POSITIVE CHANGE AND ACTIVISM IS ALIVE AND WELL. PAGES 4-11 REACHING PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE TAY ANDERSON DID HIS HOMEWORK AND TOOK ACTION TO ENSURE ALL VOICES WOULD BE HEARD PAGE 6 COMPASSIONATE COLORADO LIVES UP TO ITS NAME COLORADANS BAND TOGETHER TO COLLECT AND DELIVER SUPPLIES TO COVID-STRICKEN NAVAJO NATION PAGE 9 LOCAL ARTISTS OPEN UP NEW AVENUES AMID PANDEMIC DESPITE THE STRAINS OF THE PANDEMIC, FOUR LOCAL ARTISTS DRAW INSPIRATION FROM THEIR CRAFT PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 EVENTS / PUZZLES BACK PAGE JULY 2020 | Vol.25 Issue 7 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: CREDIT: GILES CLASEN

EDITOR’S NOTE TYPICALLY, WE PUBLISH our tourism issue in July, showcasing some of Denver’s hidden gems like street art, breweries, independent bookstores, and coffee shops, as well as locally-owned restaurants. Facing the reality that it may be ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR a while before local attractions, eateries, and entertainment venues fully re-open, we decided to focus on a different aspect of Denver’s hidden treasures by sharing stories of individuals, whose advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities or ability to navigate through the murky uncertainty left in the wake of COVID-19, enhance the quality of life for all Denverites. In this issue, we introduce a photographer/performer/ makeup artist, dancer, visual artist, and musician, who have found a way during the pandemic-caused shutdown to practice their different forms of art, while making money doing so. Also in this issue, Paula Bard writes about Courtney and Jules Carag, who have partnered with local businesses and nonprofits to feed those sheltering in local encampments. Terese Howard with Denver Homeless Out Loud and Tay Anderson, director-at-large for the DPS School Board, are not exactly “hidden” gems, but when it comes to taking action and spreading compassion, kindness, and hope, both Howard and Anderson are shining examples of true leadership. Denver’s best-known nickname is the Mile High City, but it is also known as the Queen City of the West. The individuals and organizations we feature in this issue are the rare gems who make this city shine. We hope you enjoy learning more about the people covered in this issue and the remarkable work they do to bring awareness to their causes and the people they serve. ■ JULY CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. DENVERVOICE.ORG CE.ORG @OCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Kelly Nix GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing DOUG HRDLICKA is a Denver native who reports on the city’s changes. PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen WRITERS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Robert Davis Maggie Hadden Doug Hrdlicka Gregory Miller Benjamin Eric Nelson 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT editor@denvervoice.org VENDOR PROGRAM program@denvervoice.org • 303.539.7226 ADVERTISING ads@denvervoice.org MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1931, Denver CO 80201 VENDOR OFFICE 1600 Downing St., Ste. 230, Denver, CO 80218 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. OFFICE HOURS: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE July 2020 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY & LOCAL NEWS OUR Streets: MIGUEL BY PAULA BARD I STAY ON THE STREETS NOW, pretty much in front of the Mission (sleeping quarters upstairs are not wheelchair accessible). I grew up in Curtis Park. This is my neighborhood. I’ve been in a wheelchair for about three years. Something just happened with my back and my legs with my nerves not acting right. The doctors — it’s always three visits to get anything done. It’s the same drill for everything. Come on, man. I don’t like that. I don’t need more mind games. It’s been a financial strain because I get no money. I’m not getting food stamps. No ID. All my stuff has been stolen twice. CREDIT: PAULA BARD Out here I’ve got friends I consider family, we’re all out here struggling together. All going through the same things. ■ Author’s Note: In the fall of 2015, just ahead of Colorado’s winter, Denver sent the full force of its police department and SWAT team to destroy five tiny homes that people “living without homes” had built north of downtown. Something in me snapped: Denver is behaving like a bully! Denver has more than 6,000 people without homes, and more than 3,000 trying to survive on its streets. It is an ugly business. In 2012, Denver passed an urban-camping ban making it illegal for the homeless to protect themselves with “any form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.” Violations can bring a $999 fine or a year in jail. I began walking those streets where the homeless are trying to survive, photographing the faces and collecting the stories of those my city has abandoned. So began OUR Streets – stories of Denver’s unhoused residents. DHOL posted videos of the` Denver Department of Public CITY OFFICIALS FAIL TO PROVIDE REQUIRED HOMELESS SENSITIVITY TRAINING BY ROBERT DAVIS DENVER OFFICIALS HAVE FAILED to provide sensitivity training, which is required by the February 26, 2019, settlement agreement in Lyall v. City and County of Denver. The training is for city employees and contractors who regularly interact with homeless people. The training requirements contained in the settlement are: “Denver’s Road Home shall develop training on homeless sensitivity for City employees and contractors who regularly interact with people who are experiencing homelessness. Denver Homeless Out Loud and other advocacy groups may provide suggestions or recommendations concerning the sensitivity training, but Denver’s Road Home shall retain the ultimate responsibility for developing and providing the training. The sensitivity training shall take place on an annual basis.” The Denver VOICE filed two open records requests with the Department of Housing Stability (HOST), one in January and again in June, to retrieve any documents from Denver’s Road Home related to sensitivity training conducted. Denver replied that the training had not taken place yet. Attorney Jason Flores-Williams, who represented the homeless plaintiffs in Lyall, told the Denver VOICE that he “isn’t going to be a jerk about” the city not providing the training because of the COVID-19 pandemic. For their part, Denver Homeless Out Loud (DHOL) put together a three-page document outlining several aspects of the homeless experience that city officials need to keep in mind during their frequent interactions with homeless people. Specifics covered in the training document include accessibility to basic life-sustaining activities such as eating, sleeping, and using the restroom, as well as understanding the trauma underlying the homeless experience itself. “We will never address homelessness in our society if we do not treat it as the systemic problem it is, as opposed to an individual problem of individual homeless people,” DHOL’s training document reads. Meanwhile, the city has conducted several homeless sweeps of camps, including sites near the state capitol, in Lincoln Park, on the property of St. John’s Catholic Church, and others. Many of these camps have been cleared by city employees before providing the required seven-day notices stating when and where a homeless sweep will occur. Health and Environment (DDPHE) employees clearing a camp from 21st Avenue. and Stout Street. City employees posted a notice saying the camps would be “access restricted” only minutes before conducting the sweep. In mid-June, DDPHE also cleared a camp of more than 250 residents from the area near 22nd and Stout St., claiming that the camp presented a threat to public health. However, the city recently conducted voluntary COVID testing within the camp and found no cases of COVID. At the time this article was written, more than 100 homeless people living in the city’s shelter system have tested positive for COVID. It remains to be seen when the City will be able to provide the sensitivity training. ■ HOMELESS COMMUNITIES CAUGHT IN CROSSFIRE DURING GEORGE FLOYD PROTESTS BY ROBERT DAVIS SEVERAL HOMELESS COMMUNITIES in Denver found themselves caught in the crossfire between Denver police officers and rioters as some of the protests over the in-custody death of George Floyd turned violent. A camp in the Lincoln Park neighborhood had a tent burned by a smoke bomb Denver police officers threw at protesters. Another tent and several blankets were also damaged during the encounter. And another camp at Colfax and Broadway was forcibly removed as police fired pepper balls and tear gas at protesters indiscriminately. One woman at the camp was hospitalized for stomach issues she believed were caused by the amount of pepper spray police officers used. Amidst the chaos that ensued during the first nights of the protests, some homeless people in the community still aren’t blaming the police for their tactics. “I actually thanked the cops because nobody got blown up and they left us alone,” a man identified as Rook told Denverite. “The cops did their work right.” However, the ACLU of Colorado and Denver Homeless Out Loud (DHOL), a housing rights advocacy organization, both condemned the police tactics that led to the injury of protesters and the city’s most vulnerable residents. DHOL activists drew a link between the George Floyd protests and the plight of homeless people across the country. “Police terrorize people for being homeless, who are forced to survive in public, every day. These fights are all together,” they wrote in a Facebook post. The ACLU took issue with the militarization of Denver’s police force and the city-wide curfew implemented in response to the protests. “We are alarmed at the increasing militarization of Denver police, and Mayor Hancock’s decision to impose a weeklong curfew in Denver and Governor Polis’ decision to call in the Colorado National Guard,” the organization said in a statement. “This city-wide curfew is an unprecedented and extraordinary measure that poses a risk of selective enforcement in Black and Brown communities.” The National Alliance to End Homelessness found that more than 60 percent of homeless people nationwide are non-white, even though minorities make up 25 percent of the population. In Denver, more than half of the city’s homeless population is non-white, according to the 2019 Point in Time count. During the protests, three homeless people were arrested for curfew violations. Each of them was subsequently released and all charges against them were dropped by the Denver District Attorney. In response to the treatment of protesters and vulnerable communities by city police officers, lawmakers introduced SB-217, known as The Law Enforcement Accountability Act. The bill would end qualified immunity for police officers and require their body cameras to record any contact police officers have with the public. “Now is the time for accountability. We are committed to working with lawmakers and stakeholders from all communities, in every corner of our state, to create and reform systems and policies that tear down the systemic and structural racism that is tearing our country apart,” the ACLU said. ■ JAVIER DE JESUS SITS AT HIS CAMP ON 13TH STREET AS BLACK LIVES MATTER PROTESTORS GO BY. “The protests made everything feel a lot more dangerous out here. Fires. Pepper Spray. More people. More police. It is more dangerous right now. I support what they’re doing. I’ve experienced police brutality. That’s why I’m homeless. The police arrested me over a fi ght with my wife. I made the mistake of calling the police when she was out of control. When they got there, they arrested me. That arrest literally destroyed my life, took everything from me.” PHOTO CREDIT: GILES CLASEN tied July 2020 DENVER VOICE 3

DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY CREDIT: PAULA BARD TERESE HOWARD WITH DHOL TALKS ABOUT DENVER’S ONGOING SWEEPS BY PAULA BARD TERESE HOWARD works with Denver Homeless Out Loud (DHOL), a gritty, five-person organization that strives relentlessly to give voice to Denver’s citizens experiencing homelessness. She walks the large encampments growing on the northern edge of downtown and knows first-hand the extent of this humanitarian crisis. Recently, the Denver VOICE spoke with Howard about Denver restarting the “sweeps” after a several-month respite dictated by the CDC as a safety measure during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Sweeps consist of the city breaking down homeless encampments, scooping up people’s belongings, forcing the people to move, and often fencing off the area. Sweeps have been a regular activity for years, the city’s attempt to quell Denver’s exploding homeless population. DHOL blasts out news of the streets on social media, and they raise legal challenges to the city over the inhumane treatment of those without homes. They bring bills to the legislature and ballot initiatives to the City of Denver, seeking to bring down (so far, unsuccessfully) Denver’s camping ban, which has made life a living hell for those on Denver’s streets. In the last week of May, during the sweep of the blocks around California Street and 22nd Avenue, DHOL handed out 100 tents in three days and fed 60 people home-cooked dinners. They also helped many of the displaced relocate their meager belongings. DENVER VOICE: Terese, give me your take on what is happening to the community because of the harassment, moving, and displacement. Do you get a sense of what it does to people with this much disruption in their lives, the trauma associated with it? Terese Howard: So, with Corona, a lot of outside help dried up. There was a period of about two months when there was relative stability. Not the regular sweep disruption. During that time, people were starting to build community in a much deeper way, like really getting to know their neighbors. There was a lot more effort to keep the camps clean, folks were up to invest in the space. What happens when people have stability, and they are able to put their lives together? I see people more likely to get jobs, more likely to work on social progress things, more likely to stay in contact with case managers. Increased general understanding of who’s your community, looking out for each other. 4 DENVER VOICE July 2020 Safety issues? Safer for women? Able to get help if they need it? Yeah, people know this [tent] is where I can go, they stay in this tent, this is who I can talk to. When it isn’t a stable camp, this all gets disrupted, throws people into a lot of chaos. Folks don’t know where to go; people lose property, disconnect from friends and social safety nets. Moving to another camp with no safety net, they don’t know who can help out. People that are disabled and have health issues depend on other campers to look out for them. [So, when camps are disrupted] they are left on their own. In the camps when people are disabled, do other people in the community help them out with things, get food, set up tents? Would you agree with the statistic that 40 percent of those living on the street without homes are disabled? Yes, and various types of disabilities, like some folks who have a physical disability where they are not able to set up a tent or move or haul things, they depend on somebody else to do that for them. That’s one of the most tragic things about the effects on so many people that are super vulnerable and disabled or are struggling, [they] just get totally screwed. They depend on a safe encampment to turn to when they have crises and other needs. DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD What kinds of crises? Mental breakdown or women that are raped or abused, couples that are having relationship problems . . . People with physical disabilities can’t take care of themselves, they need someone to go get food for them, throw away the pee bottle for them, and give them that level of care. And when it comes to the sweeps and that level of disruption when you’re physically disabled, the process of packing up and moving is super difficult if you don’t have a community that you are doing that with. As to shelters, if you choose to stay in a shelter, you have no level of autonomy or control over what you do or what things you have with you. Just the fact that we don’t even think about valuing these things, the ability to choose who you hang out with. Who you are sleeping next to. . . Having some extra things, the value of the privacy of a tent, a visual barrier from other people. How is it that as a society, we can’t see the value of all these things, completely bypass all of these and say no, shelters are the answer!? Just a roof and warmth. Ah, no, like are you completely ignorant of other human needs and desires, like human choice and freedom? Shelters are not conducive to that. And people just think you’re homeless, you don’t have the right to make those kinds of choices. You give up your rights You should be able to sleep till 8 a.m.; you should have that as a choice. Yeah, it is so ridiculous how disconnected we are from the human experience, and like why people choose different environments. Why do you think people are disconnected from this experience? I don’t know. Part of it is just discrimination against the homeless community, you know, they don’t deserve those freedoms, luxuries, or whatever. These are luxuries, aren’t they? That’s what they act like, like a couch, for example. If you are a homeless person and you have a couch? People flip their shit. They’re like “a couch, you’re homeless!” Things like that, like having more stuff, like having a pet. But all these things are things that housed people already have. Most housed people have TVs and couches. They are used to having these. But I do think a lot of it comes from, things about our own lives in general, as a housed society in general — like we’re not thinking about the privileges of the house, that may be part of CREDIT: PAULA BARD July 2020 DENVER VOICE 5 it. Like people are blind to their privileges, they’re just used to having these privileges so don’t actually recognize that those things are of value. Or understand them as human needs. I would wonder if people just find it hard to pay attention or if they have been taught not to see. Do we have an inability to see and take in another human being’s experience, a lack of empathy? People turn to the most egregious things first, even if it’s a perfectly clean, low-profile camp. These camps still get the heat of the neighbors. It is the idea of the tent representing the person who is not living in society. Breaking the rules. Rule-breaking, fear of people outside. Challenges the whole system, somehow something is wrong with the whole system. Also, there are these huge cultural differences, ways of dealing with conflict. Very different ways of dealing with a lot of things. Street culture vs. upper-class house culture. A lot of it is race-related, a lot of racist stuff. Yelling loudly to find community solutions (for instance), turning to violence as opposed to calling cops, not using the criminal justice system. Not trusting the criminal justice system is very much a race issue. At this point, 40 percent of the nation’s homeless population is African American. Things like that are major cultural differences. And this is an issue with service providers, too. Most of them are middleclass white folks and don’t necessarily set the services up in a way that understands that there are differences in cultural ways of being. On the housed neighbor-side, they look down and see people yelling at each other and think there’s some kind of fight going on. It might just be people joking or whatever. ■

DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN REACHING PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE: A CONVERSATION WITH TAY ANDERSON BY GILES CLASEN TAY ANDERSON IS IN HIS FIRST TERM as a Denver Public School Board member, serving as its at-large director. He was elected at 21 years-old beating two older – some might say – more experienced candidates. He started participating in social activism at a young age and has experienced time in foster care and as a homeless teenager. Anderson has been vocal on social media about what he perceives as injustices, and in what direction the Denver Public Schools should go to address the needs of minority students. Just one month after being elected to his position on the DPS School Board, Anderson received the Rising Star Award at the Colorado Democrat’s 3rd Annual Obama Dinner – which no doubt is the first of many awards he will receive for his thoughtful leadership. Here are excerpts from a recent conversation with Anderson, edited for length and clarity. GETTING STARTED “My senior year of high school I was a homeless student trying to figure out what my place in society was. And it became apparent that we didn’t have representation. I was reflecting on a conversation that I had with then-schoolboard member Happy Haynes around a decision that was made to co-locate my current high school with a middle school. And I asked her, 6 DENVER VOICE July 2020 ‘Why wasn’t our decision – our voices – why weren’t our voices included in your decision, and what do we need to do to have our voices heard?’” And she responded, “Well, you need to run for School Board and win like the rest of us.” “So, I ran for School Board in 2017 as an 18 year-old high school senior, and I lost. I came third place, got 6,200 votes, and lost to Vice President Jennifer Bacon. I then went to work for DPS, where I started off as an executive assistant to my former principal. Then I went in to [work with a first-grade class] and did some para-professional work. From there, I went into campus safety and did some work in Aurora Public Schools. Finally, I moved over to Denver Public Schools and started my career in restorative justice programming. “Throughout my time at North [High School], I decided, ‘I’m going to run for School Board again.’ But this time, for the whole city. And a lot of people doubted [my] ability to run for school board at a citywide level if I just lost a district level. So, I said, ‘I believe we can get this done. I just need you to believe in me.’ And there were people that told me there was no way Denver would elect a 21 year-old Black male to a citywide seat. That’s just not possible. I said, ‘All right, cool.’” When he ran for the School Board, Anderson faced a Republican opponent and a Democratic opponent. A registered Democrat in an unaffiliated race, Anderson was outspent. “One of my opponents raised millions of dollars, and they had millions of dollars supporting them on the soft side, and I won. It was a shocker. We came out with 51 percent of the vote in a three-way race. 67,213 votes. We led with an 18,000-vote margin. And we won 82 percent of Denver precincts. And that was all through community activism, grassroots, and meeting people where they were at.” STAYING IN THE FIGHT Those who have observed Anderson over the past few years have seen him emerge as the community leader he was destined to become. They also have seen that Anderson is not one to give up easily.” “You often see politicians lose a race, and then they disappear,” said Anderson, “but I decided to stay in the fight. It’s not like I went and did something else and then tried to run again. I did exactly what I loved. I wanted to make sure people were able to see themselves reflected in the classroom. So, I stayed in education. I did the fight, did the work, and came out on top because I led with bold ideas that had real solutions.” DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN Since winning his seat on the school board, Anderson has seen almost every one of the issues on which he ran come to fruition. “We’ve ended [having police officers present] in schools. We’ve provided gender-neutral restrooms. We’re now a safe storage district. We updated our policies to educate our kids and families on how to properly store their firearms. We endorsed a measure for students to be able to vote in school board elections. There’s so much more work to do, but the majority of the things I ran on have already been accomplished in under 200 days. “I worked in a school that had two SROs (school resource officers) on site. Some days, they weren’t there, some days they were. I’ve dealt with fights. I’ve dealt with drugs. I’ve dealt with weapons. [We were able to work with officers] by having good communication with my team and with the school administration about when to properly get involved, the cops involved. The cops in Aurora were actually kind of a hands-off approach most of the time. They sent a lot of stuff back to the school. But there were non-negotiables. “I can’t take a weapon and then not expect the [school resource officer] not to do anything about it, right? So, there are non-negotiables, and then there are things where we can have a little bit more leverage in saying, ‘Is this something that they can just be given a detention or suspension for, versus them getting a ticket that impacts them their entire life?’” DRAWING FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE Anderson recognizes the importance of establishing relationships through open communication, but his own experience is what sets him apart from most community leaders. “I think it really came down to understanding the background of the students,” said Anderson. “Not all students have the same background, nor do they share the same story. And so, listening to those kids and their stories also impacted the way that I did my job. Nobody wants to see kids get in trouble. There are times where you must be able to step in and say, ‘How can I help?’ versus, ‘You’re doing this wrong.’ “When I was homeless, I had a family near northeast Denver that took me in and allowed me to stay with them [until] six months after I graduated high school, and then I decided to save up my money and get my own place and move out. And that’s how that happened. “The first week [I was homeless], I was on the street, and then I went to living with my family. [Denver Public Schools] gave support because they have a program for homeless students. [I became homeless] just because of disagreements in the home and just…just situations that led to us departing or going our separate ways. Me and my mother have a really good relationship now. I’ve never met my father. STANDING WITH HIS COMMUNITY “I got involved with Black Lives Matter in the summer of 2016, when Philando Castile was killed. I don’t know if it impacted my campaigns because that was years before I ran. But I was in the community doing activism before I was elected. It was definitely a plus. “I’ve been showing up for my community since, so it’s nothing new to have me out there helping lead. I was on the front lines of the gun control movement here in Colorado and other different movements…I’ve been out doing this work, so it was no surprise that I would be there. I think all elected officials should be helping with their communities. “I was there when the [protests] started the first Friday night [in May 2019], when the riots began. But I got out when they started tear gassing the crowd. “I’m a Black male, so it directly impacts me. I’ve been pulled over; I’ve had negative interactions with law enforcement. I understand, and I live this every day. So, it’s no surprise that I would be out during these times trying to make sure that we’re consistently saying, “Black lives matter.” Because I could have been in one of those who have been killed by police. “[Students] want to use their voices, and so I want to make sure that I’m helping them use their platform. That’s been something that I want to make sure that we’re able to continue to do. They’re my students, so I want to make sure that they’re supported. “I believe that we need to divest certain funds from the police department and put them toward community-based resources. USING THE RIGHT RESOURCES TO ADDRESS THE ISSUES “If you’re having a mental health crisis, instead of having a law officer show up to your home, you would have somebody that specializes in mental health showing up to your home. There are several different ways that you can, that we can, help our communities versus calling law enforcement that may not have the same specialty like others do. “I want people to remember to stay involved, continue to support people that are running for office at the local level, state level, and the national level that are going to do a good job for their community, and to make sure that we’re always putting our future generations first. “Now we got to start talking about destroying systems that continue to uphold oppression and white supremacy because they’re everywhere.” Anderson understands there is no simple solution to erase the long history of racism, but that will not hold him back. “It’s going to be a complex process, bringing everybody together to make sure we can bring those changes that we want to see, but we must continue to keep the pressure on and make sure that we’re changing our systems. It’s going to be through elections. It’s going to be supporting those in office that are currently trying to make a change. We need to make sure that people understand there are leaders fighting for them that actually have the power to change policy and to change the laws.” ■ July 2020 DENVER VOICE 7

DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN COMPASSIONATE COLORADO LIVES UP TO ITS NAME BY GILES CLASEN LUCAS GARCIA HASN’T HAD ANY SECOND THOUGHTS about starting an organization to provide aid to Navajo Nation and other tribes during the coronavirus pandemic. He has not backed down from the hard work or the challenges. There were no second thoughts when towing his trailer to Page, Ariz., broke down at 6 a.m. trying to haul a trailer up I-70. There were no second thoughts when the whole team had to pull over, brakes smoking, after hauling trailers over Wolf Creek Pass near Pagosa Springs, Colo. There were no second thoughts even when learning that the hotel they booked in Page had closed. “[Members of the Navajo Nation] need our help, so we’ll do what it takes to help,” Garcia said shrugging off the adversity. Garcia started Compassionate Colorado in the Spring of 2020, but the initial goal had nothing to do with helping Native Americans. “I’m a high school teacher. When school was out [because of COVID-19 shutdowns], my job was kind of null and void,” Garcia said. “I wanted to help out people with the virus. I went to Safeway, and I saw a lot of elderly people there. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN I started that day just shopping for people. I stood outside Safeway, and when people came into the parking lot I would hand them my card and volunteer to shop for them so they didn’t have to risk their health in the store.” Garcia continued to help elderly people shop for a couple weeks, eventually putting a notice up on Facebook volunteering to help anyone in need. While looking at Facebook, Garcia noticed it wasn’t just people in his neighborhood who needed help. He also noticed the people needed more than just having someone shop for them. Through Facebook, Garcia learned about the needs of the Navajo Nation in New Mexico and Arizona. The Navajo Reservation has had a higher rate of COVID-19 transmission than almost any other region in the country. Part of the problem is that most individuals living on the reservation don’t have access to running water, making sanitation against the virus an even more difficult feat. The Navajo Reservation has also shut down most economic activity due to COVID-19. This has had a disproportionate financial impact on a community already 8 DENVER VOICE July 2020 DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY CREDIT: GILES CLASEN CREDIT: GILES CLASEN struggling with poverty. The need for basic supplies was incredible. Garcia connected with a few different Navajo individuals and organizations to learn what he could do to help. Then, he posted his plans to help on Facebook. “The community of Colorado caught on to what we were doing and came out big with donations,” he said. Like the Pied Piper, Garcia started drawing in others to his cause. Among them was Ashlee Lewis, who learned about what Garcia was doing from a friend on Facebook. She had never met Garcia but felt compelled to join his cause. “I was making masks for anyone who needed it,” Lewis said. “A friend said they saw a Facebook post about getting things to Navajo Nation, so I reached out to Lucas. I knew I had to get involved.” Lewis has been involved in nonprofit work for many years and is the executive director of The Initiative, a Denver-based nonprofit that advocates for individuals with disabilities who are the victims of abuse. Her nonprofit experience helped build an organizational structure for Garcia’s work. The two created a donation website to make it easy for individuals to send supplies to Native Americans. Compassionate Colorado now has 25 volunteers along the front range who collect donations from individuals then bring the donations to Garcia’s house right before scheduled delivery to the reservation. Once the items are collected, they are loaded onto trailers and a camper and towed to communities on reservations in South Dakota, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah. Every step of the process is completed by volunteers, including towing the items to where they are needed. The most difficult part of the process is the delivery. “It has been a lot of work to rent a truck,” Lewis said. “We did not anticipate how heavy our loads would be. We did not expect the difficulty of getting through the mountains. The cost of the truck rental is really expensive. The travel times are much worse than we anticipated. Something that should take 7 hours ends up taking us 12 hours to get there. We expected it to take 12 hours to drive to Arizona. Instead, it took 17 or 18 hours. We are so grateful for our wonderful volunteers.” The most difficult part so far has been getting over Wolf Creek Pass. “I was afraid we all were afraid to go over it,” Garcia said. “Halfway down we had to stop and take in the beauty, take pictures, take a deep breath, and take in what that area had to offer. We had to stop to let our brakes cool down, too.” Alicia Martin is one of Compassionate Colorado’s contacts in Page. She and her dad, Franklin Martin, have gathered the donated water and items from Compassionate Colorado and have been getting the donations to individuals and families living on the reservation. They live in the Bodaway-Gap chapter of the Navajo Reservation, where few people have electricity in their homes, and fewer have plumbing. The reservation has been shut down since the early days of the pandemic, and many families have moved back to the isolated reservation to escape possible exposure to the virus. The Martins are driving water, food, cleaning supplies, and hand sanitizer down unmarked roads to deliver what Compassionate Colorado has collected to houses that have no addresses. “We’re trying to keep people home,” Franklin Martin said. “We’re delivering food. We have disinfectants and Clorox to help them clean everything. We clean everything they get [from Compassionate Colorado]. We inform them not to go anywhere. This virus is not good.” So far, Compassionate Colorado has delivered more than 3,000 gallons of water as well as thousands of food and cleaning items. When a delivery is made, every single item is disinfected by hand, using a bleach mixture to ensure the coronavirus won’t inadvertently be carried onto the reservation. “Our biggest fear is taking COVID to the reservations,” Lewis said. “So, we are making sure we are taking all the safety precautions we can. Masks, gloves, and we are starting to implement getting ourselves tested before and after each trip.” The organization’s work is starting to have an impact for communities on the Navajo Reservation. “Since compassionate Colorado – there is a tiny relief,” Alicia Martin said. “Groups [on the reservation] reached out and asked for help. People I know have reached out or given us the names of family members they want us to check on. We have supplies to help.” For Compassionate Colorado, the work is just getting started. They have filed paperwork to become a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and are planning to help Native communities through the pandemic and beyond. “With every delivery – once we are unloading – we take a moment on the side to share a few tears together,” Lewis said. “Because of the work, the organization, the volunteers, and everything it took to get there, it is a huge relief of mission accomplished when we get there. There is so much more to do.” ■ July 2020 DENVER VOICE 9

DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY RACHEL GRAHAM. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA KYMI PARKER. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA DURING PANDEMIC, LOCAL ARTISTS OPEN UP NEW AVENUES BY DOUG HRDLICKA THIS SUMMER, although restricted in many ways, can still be the year we hoped for ourselves as we faced the end of December and looked forward to the year ahead. That resolution of new skills to learn, books to read, or healthier routines to adopt may seem like a vestige of 2019, but it is most certainly not. Amid the throes of a pandemic are people dedicated to their craft, who are opening up avenues for people to share in that craft and stay the course. Following is a look at four Denver-based artists, whose creativity is an inspiration for those of us who, despite the strains of the COVID pandemic, have a desire to learn and fulfill personal resolutions. RACHEL GRAHAM is trained in theater and has made a career as a performer, starring in shows such as Peter Pan. Her keen knowledge and predilection towards all things theater would lead to opportunities in directing and teaching. Her understanding of stage acting would give way to photographing performances in which she had no role. Before the pandemic forced theaters to close, Graham’s schedule was rigorous and booked as far out as October, but such a demanding schedule is merely business as usual for a workaholic. “I started shooting shows when I wasn’t in the cast, and I slowly became one of the number one theatrical photographers in Colorado,” said Graham, who typically booked two to four shoots each week. “On March 10, the rug was just ripped out.” The pandemic would come, and a wave of closures would 10 DENVER VOICE July 2020 follow, devastating Graham’s schedule for the foreseeable future. It was a huge blow. But those who work in theater learn resilience because “the show must go on,” and Graham refuses to let the curtain drop before the scene is through. She was taken back by the onslaught of closures, and her prosperity seemed slight, but a new calling would emerge. A parent reached out to her through Facebook asking if she had any classes on Zoom available for children. At that time Graham didn’t offer such a class, nor was one in the works. Recognizing the situation as an opportunity, not just to get back to work but to teach aspiring young actors a trade that will surely help them on their path, Graham built a syllabus. Being an actor in theater means versatility, and one skill that can be the difference between appearing on stage and watching as an audience member is the performers’ makeup. Applying stage makeup may seem like a simple task but it requires artistry and focus. Graham’s vocation and natural curiosity lend themselves to such knowledge and ability. “If you learn how to do it, and you also have the skills and the reference sheet, when theaters are open again, [the art of applying stage makeup] would be a handy skill,” said Graham. The course Graham designed is offered in two parts, the first being about how to work with stage makeup. This class begins with contouring and smoothing everything out. Next, Graham teaches shadowing and highlighting to give shape, leading to the darkening of hard lines that look real even to the people in the back row of the theater. Lastly, part one of the course addresses texturing. The combination of all these techniques allows a person to change their face to nearunrecognizable, and the final result of the first course teaches how to apply makeup to transform an actor of any age into an old person with liver spots. The second part of the course is all about the special effects of stage makeup. This is where her students learn the technique of creating scars, or blisters, or applying mermaid makeup — whatever is needed to give life to fantasy and sci-fi. The art of makeup is like many other crafts in that if it’s done with skill and diligence, then it will appear easy, but that assumption can’t be further from the truth. A big part as to why it is difficult can be partly attributed to the time required. The makeup needs to be stripped or reapplied during a performance while maintaining true-to-life contouring because even a green-faced ghoul has textured skin with highlights and shadows. “I’ve always wanted to do a makeup class,” said Graham, “and they [theaters] give me all these duck noises of excuses, and I’m like ‘ok, well I think it will be cool, I think the kids will like it.’” It took a pandemic for Graham to be able to teach stage makeup, and she suffered a great loss, but future performers and makeup artists will be better prepared with her guidance. So, whether for theater or the zombie walk, makeup is a skill that will most certainly serve whoever learns it. If classes on stage makeup aren’t your forte then perhaps dance is. And not many move with grace and poise like Kymi Parker. KYMI PARKER began dancing when she was eight-years-old, focusing on classical. Her training began in Albuquerque, N.M., and she would grow in technical skill but found it hard for the genre to accept all body types, and she was often discouraged from pursuing it as a career. “My entire life I’ve said I want to grow up and be a professional dancer,” said Parker, “Many teachers and my parents were like ‘You’re good but…,’ and it was always because dance was a mean-ass world. There is very little body positivity in classical dance.” But when she was in her early 20s, she took a trip to Denver to visit her sister and found The Clocktower, where she saw for the first time, professional dancers of all cut and creed performing DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY with eloquence. Upon returning home, Parker quickly found a burlesque performance group who took her in and elevated her to a status of such notoriety that when The Clocktower had an opening, she auditioned, and they took her on. “I was walking down 16th Street Mall, saw The Clocktower Cabaret clapboard about the show that was happening that night and was like, ‘This looks awesome, let’s go see what it is.’ I went and saw my very first burlesque show ever, and it was this moment where the emcee and the performers looked more like me than any other professional dancer.” She made similar strides there and became a staple in the community. Then, the pandemic hit. Like many others, Parker’s job ended abruptly, but nothing can be gained through submission, so she took to the web to impart a “lifetime of training and performance” to those who wish to express themselves through movement. Parker teaches a variety of dance, from ballet techniques to burlesque. She has taught in professional studios before but prefers small, more intimate classes. The idea behind it is people want specific things out of a class, and her ability to cater to the desires of the individual gives them a greater experience. “When you do private lessons and have one or two people, it is so much easier to be like ‘Hey, do you have any physical limitations?’ I just think that the amount you can absorb in an hour of private lessons as opposed to a class is so much more.” Along with teaching classes, Parker and The Clocktower ensemble will be live streaming shows. On the docket are Disney performances and a variety of other shows. It could be, though, that reorganizing your apartment or house to impart something reflective of yourself or cozy for evenings in is the goal. Well, best begin with the walls, and nothing cures monotone décor much like art. LA’ DONNA JONES sums up her work as “loud colors.” It is of no particular style or genre, but merely a melding of how she experiences the world. “I’ve always thought about that question, ‘What is the style of my art?’” Jones said. “I don’t know how to legitimately answer that question, and the reason why is because I don’t know what that means. That work style is very like, sterile. I have to categorize how I feel… I don’t know,” Jones added. Much like the previous two artists mentioned, Jones has dedicated her life to her art. It flows through her like a river cutting through a canyon emerging on canvas as a single piece greater than the parts it took to make. Landing with it is the success of overcoming self-doubt and all the challenges it takes to believe that course is the correct one. Jones was born in Madison, Wis., where she connected to her desire for art and to produce it, a practice that drove her. There was a five-year lapse when she felt the pressure to get a “real job” and ended up in a job as a debt collector. The job deprived her of what she lived for, art. And it wasn’t until a particularly hard call with an elderly woman who just lost her husband when Jones examined her course and concluded that it was time to step back to the thing that gave her life. “She told me that living your life for someone else is so easy, being who you are is so much harder, but it’s worth it,” said Jones about the conversation she had with the elderly woman. “I was like, ‘I got to go.’ I’m 26 years-old and I don’t know what I’m doing with my life, but this isn’t it.” That move led her to meet people who were connected to the art world and saw in her what she knew was in herself. She began teaching and commissioning work, and those people who were integral are still part of her life today. She eventually found herself in Denver, where she continues to build a network of artists to give to the world what it gave to her and facilitate the flow of art from the marginalized artist to the curator or enthusiast. “I don’t want to be fearful; I don’t want to be afraid to be me, and I don’t want other people to feel that way, especially teenagers. Teenagers are going to be a huge part of this program,” Jones said about the soon-to-be artist collaborative Brush Box Arts. To have a piece commissioned by Jones, the buyer undergoes a process where she seeks to understand you, to know what moves you, and show what’s in your heart through her loud colors. “You reached out to me for my particular version of art and with that being said I have to give it to you my way. But I need to know you a little at least to get a feel of what you’ll see when you walk past your piece, will you see you or will you see me, or will it be a feeling you try to evoke in your home?” said Jones. All art creates a story, one that moves us, and it does so by taking us on a journey provoked by our own understanding of the world. It works like a ship and its crew, synchronized to land us at a destination, and if theater was the crew, painting the ship, and dance the tasks it takes to operate, then music would be the wind that moves it. DAN GRANT is a music teacher who tutors online. He found music as a teenager and, as unlikely as it sounds, developed a fondness for it through skateboarding. “Skateboarding kind of opened some doors to some music that I didn’t know existed, and it sparked a passion in me,” said Grant. It wasn’t until after high school that Grant sought to elevate his love for the art and turn it into a lifelong pursuit. He had taken lessons early in life and grew his talent through practice. He would later audition at Metropolitan State University and be denied. Dedicated as he was, it did not temper his desire. Before his second audition, Grant took lessons. A friend of his reached out and offered to teach art music, a category that enlists both classic and jazz. The interim between auditions was six months, but what he gained in that short period set him apart from his prior attempt. “The second audition I passed with flying colors,” said Grant. “It’s really important to distinguish what I was interested in and what these people wanted to hear.” For the next four years, music would be what sustained him, it was in the water he drank and the air he breathed. Grant would practice for recitals and join multiple bands over his tenure at MSU. He would gradually begin sharing his knowledge of piano and guitar and tutor other aspiring musicians. And if any of his students part with something, it should be to strive in being the player that they can be. “Music is about you,” said Grant. ”If you’re somebody who’s interested in it — I always encourage it — if you do it, realize it’s about you and your development. The benefits, I think, are pretty high.” We have all lost a great deal because of the pandemic, but what is certain is that many of us refuse to fold under the pressure and instead find that spark within that allows us to rise to the challenges. ■ LA’ DONNA JONES. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA DAN GRANT. CREDIT: DOUG HRDLICKA July 2020 DENVER VOICE 11

DENVER’S HIDDEN GEMS OF HUMANITY SHAPE-SHIFTING WITH COMMUNITY CARE COLLECTIVE BY PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD WHILE THE WORLD WAS SHUTTING DOWN in mid-March, Community Care Collective became sharply aware of the growing hunger around them. The health care clinic in Curtis Park, north of downtown Denver, slowly turned its focus to food justice and partially away from health care, acupuncture, and LGBTQ support. The Curtis Park neighborhood is now laced with burgeoning homeless encampments. Boxes and stacks of food have now edged out the clinic space, leaving just a few treatment rooms. Community Care Collective, still living up to its name, has become a bustling place with a new purpose. When I asked Courtney Carag, a naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist about Community Care Collective, she responded, “Is it food justice? I think it’s one arm. We believe food is a right, not a privilege.” Courtney and Jules Carag, the energetic force behind this evolving project, feed 1500 sandwiches a week from their makeshift wagon, hand-pulled through Curtis Park, and then on to the homeless encampments north of downtown. Eight to 10 volunteers help make hundreds of sandwiches and fill multiple brown paper bags with overflow donations from Food Bank of the Rockies, Whole Foods, Vitamin Cottage, and Food Not Bombs. Their diversified offerings include ham and cheese, turkey, salami, peanut butter and jelly, bagels and cream cheese. They always offer a choice and a bottle of water. “We started with ham and cheese, but we needed more options. Some people don’t eat meat, some people don’t eat pork, and the whole point is everybody gets fed regardless. So, we make sure there is something for everyone. Some people don’t have any teeth, or are in immune-compromised conditions and have trouble swallowing. We have donations of liquid and protein meal drinks; they love these.” Courtney tells me this while hauling multiple containers overflowing with paper bags up a flight of stairs to their borrowed car/supply van. 12 DENVER VOICE July 2020 CREDIT: PAULA BARD And it’s not just food; they distribute toilet paper (2000 rolls since March) and bags of essentials for women. Jules told me, “hygiene supplies are a privilege these days, not everybody has access.” I accompanied them on their route on a warm Saturday afternoon in June. Jules pulled the wagon, and Courtney drove the supply van. Jules hands sandwich bags to many regulars who are grateful and enthusiastic about his visit. They are friends by now, he knows them by name. He tells CREDIT: PAULA BARD them he will be back tomorrow. Lots of smiles, thank you’s. He moves fast, covers a lot of ground from 4 p.m. through 8 p.m. The day I went with them, they delivered 350 sandwiches. They hit the streets Monday through Saturday. In these trying times, as they deliver food to the housed as well as unhoused. Courtney and Jules expect more hungry folks in their neighborhood as summer rolls on, and they are ready for them. ■ IN YOUR OWN WORDS WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES Each month, the Denver VOICE publishes a selection of writing from workshops sponsored by Lighthouse Writers Workshop. The Hard Times Writing Workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. This workshop is open to all members of the public—especially those experiencing homelessness. Contact the Lighthouse Writers Workshop for details about virtual Hard Times writing workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times The Lighthouse sponsored workshop at The Gathering Place is specifically for that organization’s clients. To check out more writing by the poets featured in this column, go to writedenver.org. GREGORY MILLER GOD IS Read them all, and all the arguments lead us back to what we already believed. A very few seekers work through all the discussions, arguments, proofs, experiments and experiences, doing all this over decades, becoming distracted by the demands of real life. But then these serious searchers return to the quest again and again. Those few thinkers courageously refused bullying in favor of their hearts and minds. Remember the three key issues: Creation; Life; and Free Will. MAGGIE HADDEN DUST TO DUST May the bridges I burn one day light my way home, But no one welcomes you after the mess that was made, After the house of lies you built fell to pieces, The life you had pretended to live crumbled into dust, I was a dream seller, spinning lies at will, Weaving untruths for survival, Taking from the hand that fed, Stealing from your soul, The ties that bind us together Became the ropes I used to hang myself with, No one could save me, Not even myself, So how would you welcome me home? After I looted and destroyed, Pillaged and then I ran, As I bring back the ashes from the bridges I had burned, I carry the rubble now, on my back, I breathe new life into this mess I left, Dust to dust, I’m coming home. BENJAMIN ERIC NELSON WHEN ONE MUST GIVE Heart of stone Precursor to ill will Left alone Savagery of mind until The crib is broken The tree breaks Words unspoken We retaliate Careless we fall Prepared to stand Sick of it all No way to understand Love... it just is When one must give PRESENTED BY: July 2020 DENVER VOICE 13

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Jones 14 DENVER VOICE July 2020 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 add 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 RESOURCES RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. WE ARE IN THE PROCESS OF UPDATING THIS LIST. IF YOU HAVE ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Saturday lunch at 11:30am CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; Sandwiches & coffee Mon-Fri 8:30am CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. at 12pm CHURCH IN THE CITY 1580 Gaylord S., breakfast every Tues.-Thurs. at 8:30am, free hot meal every Thurs. at 4:30pm. CITYSQUARE DENVER 303.783.3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10-6 DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St, VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10-12pm. DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Monday-Friday 7-1. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8 a.m., and lunch is served at 11 a.m. FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thursday of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45pm-7:30pm HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11. HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee Streets, Tuesday lunch 11:30-1:00 OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 PEOPLE’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2780 York St, Hot lunch Mon. 11am-12:30pm. ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon-Sat, 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & Holidays, 720-530-6853 SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ STREET BEAT, ARVADA SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS 7090 64th Ave. Arvada; food/clothing every 3rd Sat. 2-4pm. 303-422-2369 TRINITY UNITED METHODIST 1820 Broadway, meals served Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thursday dinners, 6pm-7pm VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am) and dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30-4pm Mon.-Thurs. CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER, Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: M & Tu 10am-8pm; W, Th, F 10am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm & Su 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., M-F, 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/ applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CAREVAN at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St. Tues. 9-12:30 DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 231 East Colfax; Monday-Friday, 9 am -12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302, (800) 522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org The mission of Liver Health Connection is to educate the general public about hepatitis C and to provide resources and support for those affected by the virus. Free Hep C testing offered. INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon, Weds-Fri 8-5; Tues 9-5; Sat 8-2. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC dental 303-286-6755, medical 303-286-8900, 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout Street; Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. WORKNOW work-now.org; 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303.447.1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 CITYSQUARE DENVER 303.783.3777 2575 S. Broadway; Mon-Thurs 10-2, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; frwoodyshavenofhope.org/contact-us; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more. THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime, drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Services include: meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, and more. Also, referrals to other resources and services. HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hepatitis C/HIV education, & health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., can help with lost IDs and birth certificates HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St. Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St., open daily from 6am-6pm; Storage for one bag offered, when space is available. Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, and Fri. 7:30-3:30; Wed. 12:30-4:30 SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave, TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more for those 55 & older. SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer Street; Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Services include: meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, Internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928. URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver & Colorado Springs. Services: overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. Urban Peak: 730 21st St. 303-974-2900. July 2020 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON THE BACK PAGE

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 EVENTS COURTESY OF DEAR DENVER DEARDENVER.NET PUZZLES Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. WEEKLY CURBSIDE FARMERS MARKET A weekly curbside Farmers Market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, family meals, to-go cocktails, pantry staples, pet goods, and more! DATE: Thursdays – Sundays; visit website for order/pickup times. COST: Free entry MORE INFO: denverbazaar.com COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 SOCIALLY DISTANT CULTURE CLUB The Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Center for Visual Art (CVA) presents the Socially Distant Culture Club. Culture Club is CVA’s “arty” hour where art makers of all types can virtually gather to explore creative techniques. Discussions take place via Zoom. DATE: Jul 1 and 8, 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. COST: Free MORE INFO: msudenver.edu/cva/events/sociallydistantcultureclub ACROSS USICCONNECTS SERIES Join the Arapahoe Philharmonic for their weekly Tuesday night MusicConnects Series featuring live and recorded performances by Philharmonic musicians and special guests. DATE: Jul 7, 14, 21, and 28, 7 p.m. COST: Free MORE INFO: facebook.com/ArapahoePhilharmonic 1. Priests’ vestments 5. Not level 10. Classic clown 14. Hilariously funny thing 15. Fragrant wood 16. Th or’s father 17. DEET, e.g. 20. Passionately orates 21. Debacle 22. Plumed military cap 23. ___ and Jerry 24. Picturing 31. Amorphous mass 35. Th e New Yorker cartoonist Edward 36. And others, for short 37. Dalai ___ 38. Back muscle, familiarly 39. Crowning point 40. Elliptical 41. Rwandan people 43. Quaker’s “you” 44. Fangs 47. General pronoun 48. American symbol 52. On the train 56. Th urgood of the Supreme Court 59. Loss of neuromuscular coordination caused by degeneration of the spinal cord 61. Brio 62. Fair-sized musical group 63. Brings home 64. “...or ___!” 65. Plant bristles 66. Greek war god DOWN 1. Bone-dry 2. Queues 3. “Garden of Earthly Delights” artist 4. Inscribed pillar 5. Th ey speak louder than words 6. School session 7. Bad day for Caesar 8. Drink from a dish 9. Girl Scout cookie 10. Gaucho’s weapon 11. Lyric poems 12. Galvanizing metal 13. Able to see right through 18. Wedding reception centerpiece 19. Fancy wheels 23. African fl y 25. Curved funnel 26. All worked up 27. “Cool!” 28. Allergic reaction #SUMMEROFPOD Join leaders in the podcast space as they share their experiences with launching, marketing, monetizing, and sustaining their podcasts. Classes will take place via Zoom. DATE: Jul 7, 14, 21, and 28, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. COST: Free but donations are accepted. MORE INFO: facebook.com/houseofpod 29. Label 30. Delight 31. Alliance 32. ___ lamp 33. Arabian Sea nation 34. Indonesian island 41. Sinews 42. Stress, in a way 45. Benchmark 46. “And ___ thou slain the Jabberwock?” 49. Accra’s land 50. Less strict 51. Upper crust 52. On the safe side, at sea 53. ___ weevil 54. Edible Andean tubers 55. Bang-up 56. ___ Blanc 57. Length x width, for a rectangle 58. Colleen 60. Water tester MCNICHOLS BUILDING – TOUR OF SUMMER EXHIBITIONS Join curators and special guests online as they guide viewers through the summer exhibits. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions via Facebook chat. DATE: Jul 10, 12 p.m. COST: Free MORE INFO: facebook.com/McNicholsBuilding

$2 SUGGESTED DONATION FIGHTING OUR WAY BACK WILL POST-SHUTDOWN LIFE CHANGE FOR DENVER’S UNHOUSED? PAGE 6 SWEEPS CONTINUE, DESPITE COVID THE CITY SWIFTLY SWEEPS ENCAMPMENT EVEN AS SHELTER ORDER CONTINUES PAGES 4-5 OUR STREETS JUST PASSING THROUGH, CHRISTOPHER AND TASHA TALK ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCE DURING THEIR BRIEF STAY IN DENVER. PAGE 3 ANTI-HOMELESS XERISCAPING “DECORATIVE” LARGE ROCKS PLACED ALONG DENVER MEDIANS MAY MINIMIZE THE USE OF WATER, BUT THEY ALSO ENSURE THE LACK OF ENCAMPMENTS. PAGE 10 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 3, 4, 7, 11 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JUNE 2020 | Vol. 25 Issue 6 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: ART: REA BROWN

EDITOR’S NOTE I WOULD BE FINE if I never again hear the phrases “the new normal” or “in these challenging times.” Unfortunately, both terms are going vernacular, as we remain in the midst of incredibly challenging times, and it will be awhile until we discover what our new normal is. Yes, the past few months have ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR been a strain on all of us, but for those experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty, the obstacles have been numerous and brutal. While many citizens spilled onto city streets throughout the country because they wanted to go to the gym or beauty salons, those without stable housing were more concerned than usual about where they would wash their hands, store their personal belongings in the event of a sweep, or shelter-in-place when there was no place to shelter. In this issue’s “In Your Own Words,” four of our vendors share their thoughts about COVID-19. Raelene Johnson encourages VOICE readers to reconcile with the pain of their past. Kendall Clarke shares a “letter from COVID-19,” while Brian Augustine expresses the difficulty he had while isolated from the work and people he so enjoys chatting with when he vends papers. Lando Allen writes about conversations he had and observations he made during the shutdown. In the early stages of the shutdown, news shows, leaders emphasized advertisers, and community the message, “We are all in this together,” but very few of us PHOTOGRAPHERS/ILLUSTRATORS Paula Bard Giles Clasen Rea Brown 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 metro Denver area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,000 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 Val U Able Lando Allen Brian Augustine Paula Bard Sue Blosten Giles Clasen Kendall Clarke Robert Davis Raelene Johnson Sue Volle BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nikki Lawson, President Michelle Stapleton, Vice President Lori Holland, Treasurer Jeff Cuneo, Secretary Donovan Cordova Raelene Johnson Josh Kauer Craig Solomon Zephyr Wilkins experienced being cast aside because there wasn’t enough room to shelter us. Because the shutdown resulted in the loss of many jobs, to become part our it is likely that we will see an increase in homelessness. For those individuals, the concept of returning to normal or figuring out what a new normal will look like is a luxury and one more thing I take for granted. ■ JUNE CONTRIBUTORS PAULA BARD is an award-winning fine art photographer, writer, and activist. She lives on a mountain top southwest of Denver. DENVERVOICE.ORG @denverVOICE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Seybold GILES CLASEN is a freelance photographer who regularly contributes his work to the VOICE for editorial projects, fundraisers, and events. He has also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ROBERT DAVIS is a freelance reporter for the Denver VOICE. His work has also appeared in Colorado Public Works Journal, Fansided, Colorado Journal, and Medium.com. MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan PROGRAM COORDINATOR Justin Canelas INTERIM ASSISTANT PROGRAM COORDINATOR Daniel Cohen GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Bragg VOLUNTEER COPY EDITORS Aaron Sullivan Laura Wing 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 • 303.539.7226 ADVERTISING ads@denvervoice.org MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1931, Denver CO 80201 VENDOR OFFICE 1600 Downing St., Ste. 230, Denver, CO 80218 OFFICE HOURS: For the immediate future, we will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Orientation is held every day we are open. New vendors must arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. 2 DENVER VOICE June 2020 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY OUR Streets: CHRISTOPHER & TASHA BY PAULA BARD “I AM CHRISTOPHER, 42 years old. I’m from Long Island, New York. This is Tasha. We’re traveling, passing through. Kind of got stranded with money, actually. We took the Greyhound bus and Mega bus and jumped a freight train and hitchhiked the rest of the way here from New York.” “I was a taxi driver for five years out of St. Petersburg, Florida, for Independent Taxi. When we get to Oregon; we might do the Uber thing, you know, we can invest in a car and start driving for Uber. They pay twice as much as taxi drivers. We stay away from the Jesus Saves places. That place is a very violent place. People that are on parole. They are forced to stay in that area. And there’s crime. Since we’ve been in Denver Tasha’s MacBook Pro and her purse were stolen.” “Yeah, all my music, all my movies, my family photos. It was the only thing I had that was worth anything. It was our entertainment.” “She was sitting five feet from it. It was a set up.” “And our sleeping bags were stolen too. Sleeping bags! Who would take a sleeping bag?” “I gave a homeless guy the shoes off my feet. We’re not thieves, we’re not rogues, we are not vermin. We are just passing through and that’s the truth.” “You never travel without two pairs of shoes. And another thing about traveling, we don’t have insurance and we’re poor. And I chipped my tooth so there is no way I can get things taken care of till we get there, to start over. We’re okay, as long as we’re happy, we’re together, we don’t mind if we’re broke.” ■ Author’s Note: In the fall of 2015, just ahead of Colorado’s winter, Denver sent the full force of its police department and SWAT team to destroy five tiny homes that people “living without homes” had built north of downtown. Something in me snapped: Denver is behaving like a bully! Denver has more than 6,000 people without homes, and more than 3,000 trying to survive on its streets. It is an ugly business. In 2012, Denver passed an urban-camping ban making it illegal for the homeless to protect themselves with “any form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.” Violations can bring a $999 fine or a year in jail. I began walking those streets where the homeless are trying to survive, photographing the faces and collecting the stories of those my city has abandoned. So began OUR Streets – stories of Denver’s unhoused residents. CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. DONATE Give a one-time or recurring donation online through denvervoice.org. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductable. ADVERTISING Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on @denverVOICE VOLUNTEER SUBSCRIPTIONS We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. June 2020 DENVER VOICE 3

LOCAL NEWS Rather than focusing its efforts on finding an area for an DENVER SWEEPS CAMP FROM ST. JOHN’S CATHEDRAL BY ROBERT DAVIS FOR THE PAST 12 YEARS, Ryan Taylor has been the pastor at Network Coffee House, an urban ministry focused on building relationships with Denver’s homeless community. After witnessing what he considers a coordinated effort to sabotage a homeless community camping on the lawn of St. John’s Cathedral, he has begun describing himself as an activist. On the morning of May 20, city officials dispersed encampments on the Cathedral property, supposedly to clean the campsite. The city had alerted campers of the cleaning the week prior and told them they would be allowed to return to the campsite once the cleaning was complete. Instead, campers returned to find the city had put up temporary fences around St. John’s and that the site was closed for sidewalk repairs. Housing advocates agree with Taylor that this act was just a disguised sweep rather than an actual cleaning. “What I witnessed was the most clear human rights violation I’ve ever seen,” Taylor told the Denver VOICE in an interview. “It was a ruse, a trick.” Many of the campers were regulars at Network, Taylor admits. He explained that some won’t go inside [shelters] because of traumatic experiences they endured in their youth, physical or sexual. Those experiences had driven some of them to hitchhike, train-hop, or join the military, all of which furthered the trauma. “When you get to know their backstory, you’re going to hear a story about trauma that’s led many of them to be afraid of being indoors. It’s a trigger for them,” Taylor said. Taylor said he has reached out to Mayor Hancock’s office and District 6 Representative Paul Kashmann about the incident but has not received any answers. Even though St. John’s was tolerant of the camp, Taylor said this act made the City’s intentions unequivocally clear. Denver area service providers have been working with the Mayor’s office since April to develop safe outdoor spaces for homeless communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, Pitkin County dedicated the Brush Creek Park and Ride as a place where Aspen’s homeless communities can safely camp. However, Denver’s leadership has been reluctant to implement a similar plan. outdoor homeless community, Denver has been working to develop a temporary outdoor expansion plan for restaurants and bars that would allow businesses to expand into parking lots and sidewalks to accommodate social distancing requirements. There are 14 restaurants and bars within a quarter-mile radius from St. John’s, but none have been designated as a campsite for the homeless, who were displaced from their previous location at St. John’s. The few city officials Taylor has contacted have provided no clear answers to his requests for information about where homeless people can find essential services. In one instance, Taylor called the City to help a homelessman with cancer find resperatory care but was passed between different departments until the call dropped. “This whole ordeal has been very disappointing. These people [who were sheltered safely in the encampment] have nowhere else to go,” Taylor said. ■ CDPHE TO DENVER’S HOMELESS: YOU’RE ON YOUR OWN BY ROBERT DAVIS RECENTLY, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) argued in a court filing that the agency has no responsibility to protect individual members of Denver’s homeless population from contracting the COVID-19 virus. The filing is in response to a lawsuit filed in April on behalf of several homeless advocacy groups asking CDPHE to abide by its statutory mandate and provide housing for homeless in communities affected by the virus. “The Department is tasked with protecting the public at large,” the motion reads. “Because this is the case, the Department does not owe any of the plaintiffs an individual duty, much less a clean non-discretionary duty. The Department does not have housing, and providing housing is far outside its statutory mandate.” The agency further argued that the lawsuit would not survive judicial review because the petitioners failed to state a factual claim against CDPHE. However, since the petitioners filed a Writ of Mandamus – asking the court to force a state agency or government officials to properly fulfill its or their official duties or to correct an abuse of discretion – the petitioners simply have to show that CDPHE is not abiding by its statutory mandate. CDPHE is regulated by Title 25 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, which says the agency reserves the administrative power “to establish, maintain, and enforce isolation and quarantine, and, in pursuance thereof and for this purpose only, to exercise such physical control over property and the persons of the people within this state as the department may find necessary for the protection of the public health.” While the word “housing” is not explicitly mentioned anywhere in the agency’s mandate, the attorney for the homeless advocacy groups argues it can be reasonably inferred that the agency’s powers require it to work with the state government to get homeless people off the streets during the pandemic. “All they had to do was work with Governor Polis to issue a temporary order removing local barriers to housing and we could have saved lives,” said Jason Flores-Williams, attorney for the advocacy groups. Recently, the agency utilized its powers to create a Residential Outbreak Task Force, charged with mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in high-density, group-living settings such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities. No such task force exists for homeless shelters even though both types of settings are exempt from the State’s public health order limiting gatherings to 10 people or fewer. The city has said that exempting homeless shelters from the public health order is necessary in order to control the spread of COVID among homeless communities. This exemption allowed the city to open temporary shelters in the National Western Complex and the downtown hotel Aloft so that homeless people could receive essential services while abiding by social distancing protocols. Housing advocates say these exemptions don’t go far enough to protect the city’s most vulnerable residents. “Despite having a Democratic governor, a progressive attorney general and an agency that calls itself the Department of Public Health, the State of Colorado has done less for the poor and voiceless during this epidemic than many cities and states around the country,” advocates from Denver Homeless Out Loud wrote in a press release about CDPHE’s filing. As a statement posted on Denver Homeless Out Loud’s Facebook page satirically summed up CDPHE’s apparent message to the exponentially increasing number of unemployed and unhoused: “Drop Dead.” ■ Vendors of the Denver VOICE are looking forward to seeing their customers again and also to introduce new readers to the street paper. The Denver VOICE team would like your thoughts on what would we could do to protect our vendors and readers from spreading COVID-19 or other contagious diseases. To help us, please take our brief survey online: DENVERVOICE.ORG/SAFETY-SURVEY YOUR OPINION MATTERS TO US! 4 DENVER VOICE June 2020 LOCAL NEWS COMMENTS FROM THOSE AFFECTED BY THE CLEANUP OF THE ENCAMPMENT AT ST. JOHN’S CATHEDRAL PHOTOS BY GILES CLASEN REIKO. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN REIKO REIKO STANDS IN FRONT of the site near 14th and Washington, where he had been camping with other individuals living on the street. Reiko said homeless advocates, police. and a printed document had communicated to the individuals living at the site that the City planned to clean the area on May 20, 2020. All communication assured the individuals camping at the site indicated that they would be allowed to return once the area was cleaned. But before individuals could return people came and created a barrier preventing those living on the streets from returning. “I don’t think they should be allowed to put up the fence without fair warning,” Reiko said. “If you’re trying to do what’s right stand on what’s right, don’t sneak around and do it the way they did, the way the city allowed it.” ROY. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN ROY “I DON’T WORRY ABOUT COVID because if it’s my time, it’s my time. It’s always constantly survival, survival, food, sleep, food, sleep, water, water, food, sleep. That’s what I worry about. I’ve seen people and friends become suicidal. “I served in the infantry in the Army. Did two tours in Afghanistan. Took shrapnel in my right leg and head and got two Purple Hearts. I got in a fight. I hit the wrong person and got discharged. My wife left me, cheated on me, and here I am [living on the streets without a home]. “Most people look at us like dogs. They treat us like dogs. Now, they keep their distance more, and care less [about unhoused people]. Everyone’s scared of getting sick. So, everyone cares less about others. They treat us like we have bugs. People call the police because we go through dumpsters looking for food. “It is so hard to get food or anything right now. “I don’t think the world owes us anything. But I think there should be opportunity. They should let us clean the alleys or the street or let us mow your lawns and let us take care of ourselves. Let us work so we can feed ourselves. “The law hates us. “I don’t use drugs but if someone buys me a Budweiser, I’ll drink it. I drink a little because it eases my pain. There is so much pain on the streets. It’s hard to survive because the city makes it hard. Even if you have ID or a Social Security card you don’t have an address - so you can’t get a job. What choice do we have? We can’t clean our clothes. We can’t get a job because we stink. When I see the sun come up in the morning, I’m happy because the night’s over. “When I find food in the trash can I thank god because I’ve gotten something to eat to feel better. “People don’t want us in the city because we bring the value of their homes down. “We have to pee and poop outside. Do you think we want to? No. But there’s no choice. There’s no mercy. “Where were sitting right now, they can come run us off or arrest us. We don’t have a choice. “There’s no restrooms. We don’t have a choice. The city doesn’t give us a choice. Then they arrest us for making the wrong choice. For going to the bathroom outside. For sitting in the sidewalk. For anything. “They don’t want to see us, no one wants to see us. And if they do see us they want to have us arrested not help us. “My feet are black and blistered. My feet are falling apart because sometimes I have to walk for three days straight without a decent rest. Walking, walking, walking, looking for some place to stop and rest and sleep. But there is no place to stop in this city. No place for rest and no place for mercy.” DARRIAN. CREDIT: GILES CLASEN DARRIAN DARIAN STARTED L&D GIVES, a nonprofit that focuses on providing homeless individuals with the necessities they need to be on the streets. Right now, they are also providing masks. “We have been getting donations of masks and I’ve had some made to give out to people.” ■ June 2020 DENVER VOICE 5

LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: PAULA BARD SHELTERING IN PLACE WHILE UNHOUSED BY PAULA BARD ACCORDING TO THE Metro Denver Homeless Initiative’s Point in Time (PIT) report, there are more than 5,755 unhoused citizens in Denver. Of these, 700 men have been bussed out to the National Western Complex, 700 of the vulnerable and frail have been offered free hotel rooms, and between 1,500 and 2,000 individuals occupy Denver’s additional shelter beds. This leaves Denver with possibly more than 2,000 unhoused individuals carving out an edgy existence on its streets. Meanwhile, the coronavirus stalks, and public health issues loom dangerously on the horizon. In this dystopian cityscape, the remaining unhoused and economically disenfranchised citizens have just created a new city within our city, north of downtown. At the center of this pop-up city is Denver’s blue mobile public restroom equipped with a mere three stalls and a few hand-washing stations scattered throughout the area. None of these resources are sufficient for an at-risk population of 2,000 citizens. Stepping up to help, Denver Homeless Out Loud and Mutual Aid Denver will donate four additional portable toilets, along with hand-washing and trash stations in late April. ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD 6 DENVER VOICE June 2020 LOCAL FEATURE LIVING ON THE STREETS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC PHOTOS BY GILES CLASEN OVER THE PAST FEW WEEKS, Giles Clasen, who is a regular contributor to the Denver VOICE, has captured images of the streets of Downtown Denver (while practicing social distancing and protecting himself and those he photographed). These are comments from a few of those with whom he spoke. ■ MICHAEL— “EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED FOR US. THERE IS NO ACCESS TO BATHROOMS. THERE IS NO ABILITY TO GET FOOD ANYMORE. EVERYTHING IS CLOSED. AND IT AIN’T POPULAR TO SAY, BUT THERE IS NO ACCESS TO NARCOTICS. YOU TRY LIVING ON THE STREETS SOBER. IT AIN’T POPULAR, BUT IT AIN’T EASY BEING ON THE STREET, AND THIS IS MAKING IT HARDER.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN JOSEPH MITCHELL— “THE CORONAVIRUS IS MESSING WITH EVERYTHING IN MY LIFE. THE LITTLE SUPPORT AVAILABLE [TO HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS] IS GONE. NO ONE IS OUT, SO THERE IS NO CHARITY, NO CARE. I CAN’T EVEN RAISE ENOUGH MONEY IN A DAY TO BUY A HAMBURGER FROM WENDY’S. TWO DIFFERENT PEOPLE TOLD ME ABOUT THE CHECKS FROM THE GOVERNMENT. BUT HOW CAN I GET THEM? HOW? I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE PAYMENT. I DON’T KNOW HOW TO GET IT OR EVEN HOW TO START. I JUST FEEL VERY ALONE AND AM NOT SURE WHAT TO DO.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN SPRAY— “WE DON’T KNOW ANYONE WHO HAS GOTTEN SICK, BUT THIS IS HARD. THERE ARE SOME BRIGHT SPOTS. THEY ARE LETTING US SET UP TENTS AND LEAVING US BE. THE COPS ARE BOTHERING US LESS AND BEING NICE WHEN THEY CHECK ON US. WE ARE TRYING TO BE CLEANER AND RESPECTFUL. BUT FOR PEOPLE ON THE BOTTOM, PEOPLE DON’T UNDERSTAND HOW HARD IT IS TO SURVIVE THIS, HOW HARD IT IS TO GET A JOB. PEOPLE SAY WE’RE LAZY, WE NEED TO JUST GET A JOB. IT ISN’T AS EASY AS GETTING A JOB. IT IS HARD TO GET CLEAN AND PRESENTABLE. IT IS HARD TO GET TO AN INTERVIEW ON TIME. AND THIS - WELL THIS IS MAKING EVERYTHING HARDER. FORGET GETTING A JOB - TRY GETTING FOOD NOW.” CREDIT: GILES CLASEN June 2020 DENVER VOICE 7

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE JACKIE HALIBURTON POSES OUTSIDE HER CLOSED-UP GASTOWN APPAREL STORE ANGEL VANCOUVER. THE MURAL BEHIND HER WAS PAINTED BY BREECE AUSTIN. JACKIE HALIBURTON POSES OUTSIDE HER CLOSED-UP GASTOWN APPAREL STORE ANGEL VANCOUVER. THE MURAL BEHIND HER WAS PAINTED BY BREECE AUSTIN. IN VANCOUVER, ART PLAYS A PART DURING COVID-19 SHUTDOWN Local artists transform boarded-up shops in Vancouver neighbourhood Gastown with colourful public health messages in a heart-warming show of community and support in the face of the coronavirus crisis. STORY AND PHOTOS BY BOAZ JOSEPH EVEN IN THE CASE OF EMERGENCY, Kim Briscoe wasn’t interested in breaking glass. On 28 March, six days after the closure of Kimprints — her Gastown arts supply and framing store—to avoid break-ins and vandalism, like other merchants around the iconic sixstory Hotel Europe, she boarded up. The COVID-19 shutdown had reached the business 8 DENVER VOICE June 2020 community of Vancouver neighborhood Gastown. “When this all started happening, we lasted as long as we could,” she notes. “Our last day was the 22nd [of March], but there was nobody coming in. Everybody was told to go home and stay home.” Briscoe’s shop sits where Carrall, Alexander, and Powell Streets intersect a few steps away from the statue of Gassy Jack. She’d been paying close attention to the novel coronavirus news coming out of China and Italy and expected the worst for Gastown’s residents. But she didn’t like the ugly, derelict new look of her shuttered business. After thinking overnight about what to do, Briscoe reached out to her contacts in the arts community. “We boarded up on the 28th and started painting on the 30th,” she says. The first, and most iconic of the images, was the face of Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief public health officer, painted by artist Breece Austin. “I thought, ‘okay, that’s pretty good. That looks better’,” Briscoe recalls. Word got around, and portraits of other health officials soon appeared: BC Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry (painted by abstract artist and Breece’s friend Abi Taylor); Alberta’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Deena Hinshaw (painted by Breece’s brother David Austin); and across the street at the Angel Vancouver clothing store, Federal Minister of Health Patty Hajdu (also painted by Breece Austin). Izzie Cheung (@this_iz_art on Instagram) a recently graduated respiratory therapist who works at Vancouver General Hospital, painted the masked faces of three coworkers, Andrew, Natasha, and Kenny, all in light-blue scrubs. While artists put their portrait stills to work on the wooden panels, other participants, including non-artists, worked on messaging, with thank-you notes and advice for passers-by. “We love you Vancouver,” wrote Briscoe’s daughter (and non-artist) Sydney Alleyne, 18, on one of her murals. “Stay safe, stay strong.” Another posting by Alleyne thanked garbage collectors and janitors, pharmacists, postal workers, teachers, grocery store workers, and delivery drivers. A few blocks away, artist James “Smokey D” Hardy, known locally for his visual messages about drug overdoses, targeted the marginalized population of the Downtown Eastside with a COVID-19 mural featuring warnings about flattening the curve, keeping distance from others, washing hands, and not touching one’s face. “It may seem surreal, but it’s not,” he wrote, signing off, “Love to all, Smokey.” The Gastown Business Improvement Society (GBIS) rallied to the cause with appeals to owners of the closed stores asking for permission for artists to decorate the plywood covering their storefronts. “While I’m personally doing well, my heart went out to the businesses,” says GBIS Executive Director Stefanie Schulz, who says more than 20 stores quickly got involved. About 35 murals are now up in the community, with more expected. Some locals, in coordination with GBIS, donated supplies such as hand sanitizer, ladders, and food vouchers. “This is a story of true community resilience,” adds Schulz. Public attention to the project brought in more artists and support from Dulux Paints and the City of Vancouver, which teamed up to launch the Give a Hand Mural Program, which provides up to $400 in paints and supplies to artists who sign up for the project. Lisa Parker, branch manager of Street Activities in the city’s engineering department, says she got on board as soon as she saw the murals of Drs. Tam and Henry in the first week of April. INTERNATIONAL FEATURE SPRING WISH LIST DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS ARTIST IZZIE CHEUNG IS A RESPIRATORY THERAPIST AT VGH AND PAINTED THIS MEDICAL TRIBUTE TO CO-WORKERS. The city already had a graffiti management program in place with resources, including vouchers for paint, to support mural activities on private properties, Parker explains. Schulz says it would have been difficult for the project to be as successful without outside help. “The city has been truly amazing to work with. We’re all quick to talk about how slow (a bureaucracy) can be. Not in this case.” Fresh, creative artists kept coming. Tattoo artist @iamextinkt, 24, a part-time Shaolin monk with 18,400 Instagram followers, brought a decidedly theological angle to the north side of the triangular building. “I haven’t painted in a long time, so this is good practice” she says from a ladder while working on detailed images of Buddha, Jesus and Shiva, the third god in the Hindu triumvirate—the deity tasked with destroying the universe in order to re-create it. @iamextinkt specializes in single-needle tattoos and focuses on religious and animal images. For the Islamic elements to complete her four-religion mural, she used a crescent moon and wrote poetry in Arabic and Farsi calligraphy. Second-year Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) student and North Vancouver resident Emerald RepardDenniston, 20, painted a light-blue mural with 40 faces, nearly half with masks on, adding short phrases from her mother’s poetry. “I’ve been doing a lot of abstract faces this year,” she says. “I was (thinking) this was the perfect opportunity to put what I had in my sketch book on a larger scale.” For her third and final year at OCAD, Repard-Denniston had planned on joining an exchange program in Italy for the fall semester. “I don’t think that’s happening anymore,” she says. ■ Courtesy of Megaphone / INSP.ngo JAMES “SMOKEY D” HARDY, KNOWN LOCALLY FOR HIS VISUAL MESSAGES ABOUT DRUG OVERDOSES, TARGETED THE MARGINALIZED POPULATION OF THE DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE USING A COVID-19 MURAL WITH WARNINGS ABOUT FLATTENING THE CURVE, KEEPING DISTANCE FROM OTHERS, WASHING HANDS, AND NOT TOUCHING ONE’S FACE. HEARTS FOR HEROES Some of the hand-written thank you messages for heroes on a board put up by Sydney Alleyne include these: “Julien Lacroix for driving Whole Foods truck” “Everyone who keeps their masks on” “My mom” “Heather Clark for managing and cooking for the food programs that feed hundreds in DTES daily” “Gregg and Lori” “People staying home” “Wal-Mart for letting me steal all sorts of stuff” In light of current events, instead of providing a list of items for our vendor wish list, we encourage you to contribute financially at DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE. This will allow us to direct funds to the most immediate needs at the VOICE during an unpredictable and challenging time for us all. If you are not able to make a financial contribution and would like to donate hand sanitizer, masks, gloves, bottled water, snacks, or gently used clothing and backpacks, please email us to coordinate – at program@denvervoice.org. P.S. Social distancing does not mean social isolation. Be aware, be safe, and remember that we’re all in this together! June 2020 DENVER VOICE 9

LOCAL STORY XERISCAPING KEEPS CREDIT: PAULA BARD HOMELESS OFF MEDIANS NORTH OF DOWNTOWN DENVER BY PAULA BARD DENVER HAS BEEN BUSY XERISCAPING ITS MEDIANS north of downtown by strewing around various large rocks on these small scraps of green space. This conveniently minimizes the use of water for the grass (try mowing over these rocks!) and will now, passively, keep encampments off as well. ■ CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD CREDIT: PAULA BARD 10 DENVER VOICE June 2020 IN YOUR OWN WORDS WRITING THROUGH HARD TIMES Each month, the Denver VOICE publishes a selection of writing from workshops sponsored by Lighthouse Writers Workshop. The Hard Times Writing Workshop is a collaboration between Denver Public Library and Lighthouse Writers Workshop. This workshop is open to all members of the public—especially those experiencing homelessness. Contact the Lighthouse Writers Workshop for details about virtual Hard Times writing workshops: lighthousewriters.org/workshop/denver-public-library-hard-times The Lighthouse sponsored workshop at The Gathering Place is specifically for that organization’s clients. To check out more writing by the poets featured in this column, go to writedenver.org. SUE VOLLE WHEN I WEAR MY BACKPACK I love my backpack It’s a status symbol When I wear my backpack I belong I feel sorry for those people The ones with leather purses And nice shoes They’re blind They don’t see love. When I wear my backpack They honk at me “Get out of the street!” When I wear my backpack No one sits with me at the church social I like it that way My backpack protects me When I wear my backpack I am accepted by The Rejected Ones I have friends on the street I can talk to anyone SUE BLOSTEN CORONATION Hi there Where are you? Why do you hide Crowned thorn in our sides? Who will host you Oh king of beasts Not to be seen With our eyes? We’ve heard of you And seen your strength. We hide from you. When can we come back To life as we knew it? VAL U ABLE SPRING FORWARD As a youngster, I was taught the mnemonic “Spring forward / Fall back” to assist in recalling which way to move the short arm of the clock when Daylight Savings Time commenced — and concluded — each year: Spring forward an hour in the vernal season. Fall back one hour in the autumn. While the positive connotation of “Spring forward” evokes a certain energy of momentum, the harsh reality is…we thereby lose an hour of precious time! Time is our most valuable commodity. Is it therefore a benefit to “Spring forward” while simultaneously sacrificing 60 elusive minutes? Conclusion: At times, advancement comes at a cost. This Spring, as I sit enclosed in my secluded snow globe, sheltered in place, I can’t help but believe this worldwide pandemic will thrust us ahead in advancements yet to unfold… I hold onto this hope while eagerly awaiting that hour I will reclaim this Fall! PRESENTED BY: June 2020 DENVER VOICE 11

IN YOUR OWN WORDS CORONAVIRUS AND THE HOMELESS BY LANDO ALLEN, VOICE VENDOR A LETTER FROM COVID-19 BY KENDALL CLARKE, VOICE VENDOR TODAY, I’M GOING TO TALK ABOUT the coronavirus and how it has affected the homeless people in Denver. First, the VOICE closed its office, which took me out of a job. I tried to go to the labor pool to make things work, but it was slow there. Some of the people who sell LANDO ALLEN CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL the VOICE kept working to try to make it. I bought a camper and tried to stay safe, but the bills kept coming. The VOICE did me give us some relief by giving us some cash to pay some bills, but I still needed more to fix my camper and keep food on the table. After the Denver VOICE office closed the office, KENDALL CLARKE CREDIT: JUSTIN CANELAS they called me about a part-time job opportunity. The news of work made me happy, and I decided to write a story about it. So, what was cool about this job is I started interviewing homeless people about how they felt about the coronavirus. They told me that the government forgot about them; they felt misplaced, and some people couldn’t even work to support themselves. We started to talk about how rents were jacked up when we voted in favor of marijuana. After that, the government took away the project apartments, along with the option for the apartment owners to let those with low incomes stay there. I wrote an article for the VOICE at that time, and I told people we could do better – build project apartments tiny houses, and trailers – that’s what I meant when I said we could do better. Now, the coronavirus has us at a disadvantage. Meanwhile, I witnessed two bodies being wheeled out of a shelter on the same day. Later that day, there was a guy on a building ready to jump off. Firefighters and cops had to come to get him down. As all of this was happening, the temporary job I had ended because the organization I was working for ran out of funds. The VOICE gave me cash that helped me. I knew I couldn’t get by for the month, so I turned back to vending papers. I talked to another vendor, who was still selling, and he said everything was cool, so I started selling papers part-time. Then, I ran into a friend who works in healthcare, and we started talking about what was going on in the hospital where he works. He told me the hospital has three floors dedicated to patients with the coronavirus. He said he was scared to work on those floors. He also told me that the doctors had to take a pay cut, while the “suits” all received bonuses. That day, after an hour of vending, I got on the bus and started talking to homeless people. They told me that some people went to different shelters, like the National Western Complex, Crossroads, and Jesus Saves [the Denver Rescue Mission]. The people who were sick were put up in motels, where they got to eat better food than what the shelters provide. I wish the services and shelters we have now had been as good when I needed them and before I bought my camper. And about my camper, I got it to run, but I still have to get a tune-up for it. I also bought tires, so I need to have them put on, and then I need to build a bathroom and shower. ■ BRIAN AUGUSTINE CREDIT: JESSE BORRELL DEAR FELLAS, WOMEN, everybody listening, this just may be a letter for the children I’m coming through With something real sickening Coughing and sneezing, breathing then you’re wheezing You think you’re HOT, huh? Now you’re freezing! You sleep then you woke ya folks in western slopes like the snow Sippin on ice-cold coke when they smoke ■ I COULD BECOME A HERMIT BY BRIAN AUGUSTINE, VOICE VENDOR I COULD BECOME A HERMIT, as this stay at home order goes on. I figured out one thing. I’m okay being by myself. I’m not lonely. Don’t get me wrong. I do miss people. Working on my corners. Seeing people smile. Talking with my friends. But, I’m not lonely. I don’t feel any pressure to get away from myself. Because when you’re with other people, you don’t rely on who you are. You have someone else to share time with. In public, people can give you a sense of who you are. but I don’t rely on other people to do that for me. I’m a good person with good moral values. Why? I like me. I can live every day with me. Of course, with my belief system, I never consider myself to be truly alone. He’s always in my heart. Guiding me through my decisions. Without Him, I would still be a bad guy. Not caring what He thought of me. I do really miss all my friends that I saw regularly on my corners. I will go back there to greet them as they go to work. Trying to make their day a little bit better. Seeing them smile. I’m okay being by myself, but that doesn’t mean that I want it that way. Yes, I could be a hermit, but, why, with all the beautiful people out there? I’m going to start back on my corners soon. I know I won’t see the smiles because of the protective masks. (I’ll be wearing one, too) But I know those smiles will be there. Mine will be there, also. See you then. Love always. Brian ■ RAELENE JOHNSON CREDIT: CORTNEY TABERNA BEFORE YOU PASS ON PAIN BY RAELENE JOHNSON, VOICE VENDOR IF BAD THINGS HAPPENED TO YOU when you were young, get help. Don’t run away from the pain because you will run and stay lost and stay broken. Don’t do drugs or alcohol, thinking you will be able to escape the pain of your past; it will not happen! You will become a victim of other people’s abuse, and over time, you will believe that you deserve it when you don’t! Don’t run from people who are really reaching out to you and trying to help you because you may lose your opportunity to get the help that you need! Don’t have children just to have someone to love you because it doesn’t work that way! You will be bringing a child into this world that you’re not ready for, and the pain of your past and what you’re going through will end up being put onto your child! You need to have yourself together before you pass on pain that you can’t change in your child’s life that they will have to deal with in the future because of your lack of help for yourself! Don’t pass onto your children the pains of your past because then your children will have to deal with a lot of pain that they shouldn’t otherwise have to go through! When you don’t get help for your problems, all you’re doing is passing on your problems to your family, your kids, and everyone that loves you! Think about the damage you will do to your child if you’re having it just to be loved! I know you want to be loved, but if you don’t love yourself, you don’t have to love to give others, and that’s being selfish to a newborn! I now have to deal with the pain that my children went through when they were young because of how broken I was when I had them! We do not want to keep this cycle going from child to mother, mother to child because passing the pain from one generation to the other means nobody gets help with anything! It is not a sign of weakness to admit that you need help! Seeking help shows that you want to get healthy and that you want to deal with whatever happened to you in the past because it’s keeping you stuck now in the future. As long as you keep thinking about the past and keep going over it, you’re missing the future, which is now! A lot of us lost our children to the system years ago! And when you get your children back in your life once they’re adults, you then have to deal with all the crap they went through because you thought that you wanted a baby to be loved by! Love yourself first before you pass pain to an innocent child who ends up having to deal with all of your crap. just because you had them for that reason! If your life is a mess, get help, if you reach out to someone and they’re not there for you, keep trying until you find the right person or organization that’s willing to help you! Learn to love yourself before you get into a relationship with someone you end up destroying! Do not pass your troubles or pain onto your children or family. It’s not fair! So, if you’re in pain from your past or even going through something bad now, please get help You are Worth it Today! My prayer is that this will reach someone who needs to hear it! God bless you, if this message reaches you! I had to learn the hard way about how the pain in my past affected my children’s future! ■ 12 DENVER VOICE June 2020 EVENTS DATE: Ongoing COST: Donations accepted MORE INFO: holdthephone.tv Offering live comedy and storytelling (almost) every night, HoldThePhone.TV allows you to get your LOL on without the two-drink minimum. BY DEAR DENVER FOR MORE EVENTS, CHECK OUT DEARDENVER.NET Thanks to Deborah Lastowka, with Dear Denver.net, for coming up with some great ideas for entertainment people can enjoy while practicing social distancing. PUZZLES DATE: Ongoing COST: Prices vary MORE INFO: voodoocomedy.com Voodoo Comedy hosts an assortment of online comedy classes including, drop-in improv, sketch writing, storytelling, scene work, and much more. COURTESY OF STREETROOTS ANSWERS ARE ON PAGE 15 DATE: Mar 12, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. COST: Sliding scale from $5 - $20 MORE INFO: DATE: Jun 20 and Jun 21 COST: Donations accepted MORE INFO: denverpride.org cleoparkerdance.org/academy Express yourself and learn something new by participating in these weekly classes from the comfort of your own home. Choose from pre-recorded and on-demand lessons for the whole family. Denver PrideFest 2020 is going online. Enjoy a virtual parade, virtual 5K, virtual dance party, online marketplace, and a pride decorating contest, while supporting the local LGBTQ community. ACROSS DOWN 1. Harrison’s “Star Wars” role 4. Refusals 7. Toy gun ammo 10. That woman’s 13. “This American Life” host Glass DATE: Ongoing COST: Donations go directly to the artists MORE INFO: facebook.com/ undergroundmusicshowcase The Underground Music Showcase presents daily live performances from local artists. 14. Ocean east of the USA 15. Platform for Siri 16. “Love ___ Battlefield” 17. Executive Director Kaia’s chess piece? 20. Trail (behind) 21. Showing no emotion 22. Sets (down) 23. Crossword component 24. Upper limit 26. “The View” cohost Joy and family 28. North African country 32. Newsworthy 35. Neighbor of Leb. 36. “Cat on a Hot ___ Roof” 38. Sea between Greece and Italy 39. Derisive look 42. Common sight in yoga class 44. Video game princess 45. Lacking 47-Across (or, more literally, low in hemoglobin) 47. Liveliness 49. Inc. relative 50. Comics troublemaker Dennis and his ilk 52. Up to now 55. Burnt crayon color 57. ET’s ship 58. “To ___ a Mockingbird” 60. Removes from the “No Parking” zone 62. Brief incursion 66. Former Notre Dame coach Parseghian 67. Board Member John’s pet rock? 69. Freight weight 70. “___ chance!” 71. Be in debt 72. Mom and pop school org. 73. Finale 74. Take to the skies 75. Freshly painted 76. What we breathe 1. Snake’s sound 2. “I smell ___!” 3. Type of iPod 4. Daytona 500 org. 5. Like non-Rx medications 6. Smack on the face 7. Once ___, twice shy 8. Russian ballet company 9. NNW’s opposite 10. Reporter Helen’s goat? 11. Jacob’s twin 12. All the ___ (trendy) 18. Casino cubes 19. Temp worker 23. Common sight during a construction boom 25. Cherry center 27. In alphabetical order 28. Region of India known for its 43-Down 29. Dick Cheney’s wife 30. Senior Reporter Emily’s lot? 31. Objective 33. Soup scoop 34. Put into law 37. Forty winks 40. Inbox contents 41. Paddy grain 43. Hot or iced beverage 46. Grand ___ Bakery 48. Downtown campus 51. Hoity-toity 53. Balance out 54. Stocking stuffer? 56. “How adorable!” 58. “Titanic” actress Winslet 59. Wrinkle remover 61. Winter forecast 63. ___ vieja (national dish of Cuba) 64. Against 65. Once around the sun 67. #1 buddy, for short 68. Country between Nor. and Fin. June 2020 DENVER VOICE 13 ONLINE COMEDY CLASSES DENVER PRIDEFEST STREAMS WITH GRIT CYBER DANCE HOLDTHEPHONE.TV CLASSES WITH CLEO PARKER ROBINSON 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

DONORS DONOR 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 $20,000+ Denver Foundation $10,000+ Kenneth King Foundation Max & Elaine Appel John & Laurie Mcwethy Charitable Fund $5,000 - $9,999 Community Foundation of Boulder County Jerry Conover $1,000-$4,999 Josh Kauer Bright Funds Network for Good Matthew Seashore & Nikki Lawson Arc Thrift Stores Jeremy Anderson City Side Remodeling Matthew Rezek Schuster Family Foundation Russell Peterson PEN America Craig & Teresa Solomon Jim Ashe Wynkoop Brewery George Lichter Family Foundation Walker Family Foundation The Sidney B. & Caleb F. Gates Jr. Fund Kauer Construction & Design Gaetanos Restaurant Patrick & Jan Rutty $500-$999 Comedy Works Michelle Stapleton & James Thompson Michael Dino Christine Muldoon and Pete Iannuzzi Jill Haug Caring Connection Alistair Davidson Lighthouse Writer’s Workshop, Inc. Keyrenter Property Management Denver Gaspar Terrana Elizabeth A. Mitchell Stephen Saul Leigh Bingham and Chris Forgham James Stegman William Thorland Betty & Warren Kuehner Zephyr Wilkins Celestina Pacheco ACM LLP Cuneo Law Firm Paul Hoffman Paul Manoogian 14 DENVER VOICE June 2020 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 add 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 RESOURCES RESOURCE LIST FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DIAL 211 FOR A MORE COMPLETE LIST OF RESOURCES IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. WE ARE IN THE PROCESS OF UPDATING THIS LIST. IF YOU HAVE ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@DENVERVOICE.ORG. FREE MEALS AGAPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2501 California St., Sat., 11am CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1100 Fillmore St., Saturday lunch at 11:30am CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES Go to mealsforpoor.org for meal locations CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 1530 Logan St.; Sandwiches & coffee Mon-Fri 8:30am CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. CHRIST IN THE CITY Home-cooked meal; Civic Center Park at Colfax & Lincoln at 1pm every Wed. & 2nd Sat. at 12pm CHURCH IN THE CITY 1580 Gaylord S., breakfast every Tues.-Thurs. at 8:30am, free hot meal every Thurs. at 4:30pm. CITYSQUARE DENVER 303.783.3777, 2575 S. Broadway; Food pantry Tues. 10-6 DENVER INNER CITY PARISH 303-322-5733, 1212 Mariposa St, VOA Dining Center for Seniors, free 60 yrs and older, Wed.-Sat. 9am-12pm. Food Bank, Wed.-Fri., tickets at 9am, food bank open 10-12pm. DENVER RESCUE MISSION 1130 Park Avenue West, 3 meals 7 days/week: 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm 303-294-0157 FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 1101 W. 7th Ave. 303-607-0855. Monday-Friday 7-1. Not open weekends. Breakfast is at 8 a.m., and lunch is served at 11 a.m. FEEDING DENVER’S HUNGRY Food service on the second and fourth Thursday of each month; locations found at feedingdenvershungry.org/events FOOD NOT BOMBS Wed. 4pm/Civic Center Park HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45pm-7:30pm HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 910 Kalamath, community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10, women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11. HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., sandwiches, Mon.-Sat., 10-10:30am JORDAN AME CHURCH 29th and Milwaukee Streets, Tuesday lunch 11:30-1:00 OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St., Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm) meal served at 6pm. 303-830-2201 PEOPLE’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2780 York St, Hot lunch Mon. 11am-12:30pm. ST. ELIZABETH’S Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; food, coffee. ST. FRANCIS CENTER 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month). ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN 1600 Grant St., Street Reach meal Mon. 1-4:30pm. Grocery room open at 11:30am every Mon. ST. PETER AND ST. MARY 126 W. Second Ave., dinner at 6 on Tues. 303-722-8781 SAME CAFÉ 2023 E. Colfax Ave. restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen: Open Mon-Sat, 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & Holidays, 720-530-6853 SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave. 3 meals, Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm. 55+ STREET BEAT, ARVADA SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS 7090 64th Ave. Arvada; food/clothing every 3rd Sat. 2-4pm. 303-422-2369 TRINITY UNITED METHODIST 1820 Broadway, meals served Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 11:45-12:15 URBAN OUTREACH DENVER 608 26th St., Thursday dinners, 6pm-7pm VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am) and dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. Food & clothing bank 9:30-4pm Mon.-Thurs. CAREER SERVICES COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER, Level 4, Denver Central Library, 14th Ave. & Broadway. 720-865-1706. Hours: M & Tu 10am-8pm; W, Th, F 10am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm & Su 1-5pm; FREE services include computer/internet use, wifi, computer classes, job search/resume classes and one-on-one tech help appointments. THE WESTSIDE ONE-STOP CAREER CENTER Denver Department of Human Services, 1200 Federal Blvd., M-F, 7:30am-4:30pm; Services include: employment counseling, assisted job search, résumé preparation, job/ applicant matching, phone bank for calling employers, access to computers, copiers, fax, etc. MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY L.I.F.T. CAREVAN at Open Door Ministries, 1567 Marion St. Tues. 9-12:30 DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER 303-436-6000, 777 Bannock St. HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800; 231 East Colfax; Monday-Friday, 9 am -12pm. HIV/Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Our services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on how to properly dispose of dirty syringes. LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite B302, (800) 522-4372, info@hepc-connection.org The mission of Liver Health Connection is to educate the general public about hepatitis C and to provide resources and support for those affected by the virus. Free Hep C testing offered. INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER 303-296-1767, 3800 York St. Mon, Weds-Fri 8-5; Tues 9-5; Sat 8-2. Emergency walk-ins. SALUD CLINIC dental 303-286-6755, medical 303-286-8900, 6075 Parkway Drive, Ste. 160, Commerce City; Medical Hours: Mon.-Wed. 8am-9pm, Thurs.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Sat. (Urgent Care only) 8am-5pm; Dental Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm; Pharmacy Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5pm; After Office Hours: 1-800-283-3221 STOUT STREET CLINIC 303-293-2220, 2130 Stout Street; Clinic hours for new and established patients: 7am-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs., & Fri. The clinic is open Wed. 11am-7pm. VA MEDICAL CENTER 303-399-8020, 1055 Clermont St. WORKNOW work-now.org; 720-389-0999; job recruitment, skills training, and job placement DROP-IN & DAYTIME CENTERS ATTENTION HOMES 303.447.1207; 3080 Broadway, Boulder; contactah@attentionhomes.org. Offers safe shelter, supportive programming, and other services to youth up to age 24 CITYSQUARE DENVER 303.783.3777 2575 S. Broadway; Mon-Thurs 10-2, Denver Works helps with employment, IDs, birth certs; mail services and lockers FATHER WOODY’S HAVEN OF HOPE 303-607-0855; 1101 W. 7th Ave.; frwoodyshavenofhope.org/contact-us; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Six private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch & more. THE GATHERING PLACE 303-321-4198; 1535 High St.; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm. Daytime, drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals. Services include: meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, and more. Also, referrals to other resources and services. HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER 303-572-7800, 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am-12pm. Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hepatitis C/HIV education, & health education classes. harmreductionactioncenter.org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1900 California St., can help with lost IDs and birth certificates HOPE PROGRAM 303-832-3354, 1555 Race St.; Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm. For men and women with HIV. LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-294-0157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES 1567 Marion St. Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center: bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI ST. FRANCIS CENTER 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St., open daily from 6am-6pm; Storage for one bag offered, when space is available. Satellite Clinic hours- Mon., Tues., Thurs, and Fri. 7:30-3:30; Wed. 12:30-4:30 SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES 846 E. 18th Ave, TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more for those 55 & older. SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES) 2017 Larimer Street; Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Services include: meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, Internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.-Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) 2100 Stout St. 303-291-0442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. If you are a youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, please contact 303-974-2928. URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES) Youth 14-24 in Denver & Colorado Springs. Services: overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. Urban Peak: 730 21st St. 303-974-2900. June 2020 DENVER VOICE 15 DON’T LOOK NOW! PUZZLES ARE ON PAGE 13

Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,400 people experiencing homelessness. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE