Podcasts about Westword

Joshua Maddux, an 18-year-old from Woodland Park, Colorado, vanished on May 8, 2008, after going for a walk. A bright, creative teen who loved nature, he seemed happy despite the 2006 suicide of his brother. After five days, his family reported him missing, but searches yielded nothing. In August 2015, his body was found in the chimney of an abandoned cabin near his home, upside down in a fetal position, wearing only a shirt, with his clothes folded inside the cabin. The coroner ruled his death an accident, suggesting he climbed in and got stuck, dying of hypothermia or dehydration. However, the cabin owner claimed a grate blocked the chimney, making entry impossible, and the coroner noted two people would be needed to place the body there. Rumors point to foul play, including a tip about Andrew Richard Newman, a convicted murderer seen with Josh, but no evidence supports this. The case remains an accident with no active police investigation, leaving questions about how Josh ended up in the chimney and whether others were involved.   00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 05:15 100 Episode Celebration and Giveaway 07:50 Joshua Maddux 48:18 The Branch of Hope   Sources: Roberts, M. (2015, September 30). Joshua Maddux, R.I.P.: Remains of teen missing 7 years found in Cabin Chimney. Westword. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://www.westword.com/news/joshua-maddux-rip-remains-of-teen-missing-7-years-found-in-cabin-chimney-7197390 StrangeOutdoors.com. (2021, August 6). The strange death of josh maddux, the boy in the chimney. StrangeOutdoors.com. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://www.strangeoutdoors.com/strange-indoors/joshua-maddux Young, N. (2023, May 11). How did Joshua Maddux die in the chimney of an abandoned cabin? Medium. https://medium.com/@nikyoung/how-did-joshua-maddux-die-in-the-chimney-of-an-abandoned-cabin-7502be457cb7 Mendoza, J. (2023, March 13). Disturbing details about the case of Joshua Maddux, the teen found in a chimney. Grunge. https://www.grunge.com/1205963/disturbing-details-about-the-case-of-joshua-maddux-the-teen-found-in-a-chimney/ Migration, & Paul, J. (2015, October 19). Chimney discovery ends mystery over young man's disappearance, but questions remain. The Denver Post. https://www.denverpost.com/2015/10/19/chimney-discovery-ends-mystery-over-young-mans-disappearance-but-questions-remain/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

After months of rumors and speculation, Sen. Michael Bennet announced on Friday that he is officially running for governor — but he also wants to stay in the Senate while he campaigns so he could appoint his own successor if he wins. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the campaign announcement that's got local Dems abuzz — plus, we share a follow-up on the turmoil at Illegal Pete's and respond to even more of your takes on Denver's dog poop problem.  Paul mentioned the Denver Post editorial about Michael Bennet's succession plan and Axios Denver's report on local opinions on Democrats. For more on Bennet, we talked to historian Phil Goodstein about Bennet's biography ahead of his most recent re-election to the Senate. Bennet himself was previously on the podcast talking about his effort to ban TikTok. Bree mentioned her piece on the dog poop problem for Westword way back in 2016. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off The Delores Project Denver Health Energy Outreach PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump's tariffs have already hit Denver, causing massive drops in stock prices and higher costs for businesses and consumers. But are they hitting us harder than other cities? Then, the Nuggets canned their beloved coach, Michael Malone, and opted not to renew the contract of General Manager Michael Booth. Fans and sports analysts alike flipped out — but could this be the vibe shift the Nuggs need? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by standup comedian and Casa Bonita performer Joshua Emerson to dig into these news stories and share all our wins and of the week.  Does Denver have a dog poop problem? We want to know what you think! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 We talked about Westword's coverage of the Bike Lane Uprising app. Bree mentioned Nuggets coverage on the DNVR Nuggets and Locked on Nuggets podcasts, and Bill Simmons' show. She also talked about the benefit show for local photographer Michael McGrath. Paul talked about Rep. Jeff Hurd (R-D3), Wynkoop Brewing near Union Station, and the proposal for Denver to spend $70 million on the NWSL stadium. Joshua mentioned City Cast CEO David Plotz's observation about Denver's dog poop and Sundance's Indigenous Program. Grab tickets to Joshua's new show, Dead Man Talking, tonight at the Savoy! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Port Aransas Denver Urban Gardens PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For almost 30 years, Illegal Pete's has been a local darling. While Chipotle went global, Pete's Mission-style burritos came with killer queso and great margs — and they supported local artists and community groups, too. But over the last couple years, something has changed. People are swapping stories of food poisonings, cuts to worker benefits, and less-than-awesome queso. So what happened? Producer Paul Karolyi put that big question to Illegal Pete's founder and CEO Pete Turner, because he's got some explaining to do.  Paul mentioned Denver Gazette's reporting on the letter that Turner and some other downtown restaurant owners sent to Mayor Mike Johnston complaining about how slow downtown's economic recovery has been. He also recommends this fun queso taste test that Westword's food editor and friend of the show Molly Martin did a few months ago.  What do you think about Illegal Pete's? Do you love it more than ever? Have you had bad experiences? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20th episode: Denver Health Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Who is Abraham Gonzalez?” That pointed question to Mayor Mike Johnston during his big congressional hearing last Wednesday sparked a wave of fresh reporting on how exactly Denver is coordinating with ICE — or not. So today Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about what national Republicans saw that the local media might be missing. Plus, there's a new private security force on the streets in LoDo and listeners have thoughts on Mayor Mike and the state of downtown.  Paul mentioned Kyle Clark's post-hearing interview with Mayor Johnston on 9News, the Denver Post's article on what Republicans could be planning next, and some conservative coverage of the sanctuary cities hearing. You can learn more about the new Ballpark GID and its mission here.  How much do you think Denver should be coordinating with ICE? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 11th episode: Arvada Center Port Aransas 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could ongoing BRT construction mean the end of the road for long-standing Colfax businesses? The public transit project has been in the works for years, but the real impacts of sidewalk closures and disappearing parking spots are finally hitting home. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword staff writer Jason Heller to talk through his reporting on how business owners are balancing concerns with the prospect of better bus lanes. Plus, they dig into more news of the week, including The Lumineers' new album and frontman Wesley Schultz's guide to Denver, gender-affirming care for kids returning to area hospitals, and the questionable names being thrown around for Denver's new National Women's Soccer League franchise. Jason talked about new music from Plague Garden. Bree mentioned a 2013 New York Times article on The Lumineers and budget cuts impacting childcare programs across the state. Paul talked about the “Watershed Alliance" for Sloans Lake.  What do you think about The Lumineers? Are they a distinctly Denver band to you? Do you have a great Lumineers story to share? We'd love to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We're giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It's all going down at HEYDAY, our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this February 21st episode: University of Colorado Denver Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chuck And Julie Show with Chuck Bonniwell and Julie Hayden DOGE continues to shine a light as they follow the slimy Deep State money. Particularly enlightening are the ties to media including organizations in Colorado. Why has Westword been pushing the anti-Trump protests? Follow the money!

Is the Art District on Santa Fe's First Friday summer art walk event in danger of going away? Concerns over crowd sizes at this annual block party has the city hesitant to issue needed permits, leaving the popular event in limbo. Then, a group of women on their way to a protest last weekend were accosted downtown by two men in a truck, and told Westword they didn't feel like law enforcement took the incident seriously. Host Bree Davies is joined by returning faves Hey Denver newsletter editor Adrian González and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into these stories, plus the King Soopers picket lines' impact on Girl Scout cookie sales, Kendrick Lamar's Denver rec center appearance, and more wins and fails of the week.  Justine talked about the City of Denver's Black History Month public art tour. Adrian discussed United Airlines' new flight training center and Osaka Ramen's impending closure. Bree mentioned the Denver Coliseum being used as a temporary shelter and the children who froze to death in Detroit. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We're putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It's family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this February 14th episode: Denver Health University of Colorado Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is legislation the best way to help Denverites avoid paying $20 for a mediocre cheeseburger? Some leading Democrat lawmakers are set to introduce a new bill this week to put some legislative heft behind the proposal you heard about first on our show last week — to essentially lower the tipped minimum wage. Some restaurateurs say it's their only hope. But this stuff is confusing! So producer Paul Karolyi is continuing the conversation with former-restaurant-worker-turned-food-reporter Helen Xu. She recently reported for Westword on some more creative (and risky) ways local restaurants are trying to offer more value, and she's on to put this new “tip credit” proposal in context and demystify the minimum wage debate.  We've got a sneak peek for you of the full text of the draft legislation that Rep. Steve Woodrow (Denver) and state Sen. Judy Amabile (Boulder) are reportedly planning to introduce this week. And don't miss our episode full of recommendations for our favorite cheap eats. Paul mentioned Matthew Fritz-Maur, the executive director of Denver Labor, and the city's chief watchdog of wage theft complaints. You can hear him on an episode from last year, and get in touch with Denver Labor if you suspect you've been a victim of wage theft.  Which Denver restaurant offers the best value? We're looking for great deals, specials, happy hours, or flat out bargains! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We're putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It's family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amid last year's national hysteria over Tren de Aragua — the Venezuelan gang that had allegedly “taken over” several apartment buildings in the Denver metro — then-presidential candidate Donald Trump came to Colorado to announce his plans for a massive crackdown on immigration, dubbed “Operation Aurora.” Now that Trump is in office, social media is rife with stories of ICE raids, security breaches, and people being detained — so how can you tell what's fact and what's fiction? Host Bree Davies sits down with Westword staff writer Bennito Kelty, who has been covering the immigration issue in his hometown of Aurora, to discuss the actual impacts of a second Trump presidency and if any of the rumors are true. Bree mentioned Bennito's deep dive on GEO Group, the for-profit prison company running the Aurora ICE facility. She also mentioned Congress's request for Mayor Johnston to come and testify on Denver's sanctuary city policies in February. For more, the Colorado Sun recently reported that Trump's Department of Justice recently ordered several local non-profits to stop their work, which will leave many people in the ICE facility in Aurora and at the immigration courts in Denver without access to legal representation.  We're doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We're putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It's family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this January 29th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Art Musseum Clear Peak Fertility Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Broncos are headed to the playoffs for the first time in nine years. But do they deserve a new stadium? And should taxpayers pay for it? It's Friday and we're looking back at the biggest news of the week, starting with an investigative series from the Denver Post digging into the economics and politics of big stadium projects. Then, beyond Blucifer and the big blue bear, is there a third big blue creature out there? Host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval dig into these stories, plus the District 31 senate vacancy vote, a loss for the local music scene, and more highs and lows of the week. Bree talked about our interview with historian David Forsyth about Manhattan Beach and Roger the Elephant. She also mentioned Jason Heller's memorial piece in Westword about the passing of musician Luke Fairchild and you heard from one of his many bands, Kingdom of Magic. She also discussed the Park People's Denver Digs Trees low-cost tree program. Paul mentioned this 1998 article about Kyle Shanahan and the Broncos' campaign for a new stadium, the Littleton rezoning situation, and Matt Ball. Justine talked about snow tires and the state budget deficit.  What is your “toxic Colorado trait”? It you're brave enough to share, we want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood — or stay anonymous if you really want to — and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We're putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It's family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is way more snow this morning than news stations predicted. Travis Kelce wants us to know he is not scared of the Bengals. The fires in California continue on. Colorado is sending 200 fire engines, thousands of fire fighters, and some airplanes to help out. LA Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh says he remembers the day he was born. What is your earliest memory? Jamie has a list of things that will tell you if your marriage is over. Jamie has a bet for the Broncos vs Bills games and it's a pretty good one. The Westword just published an article talking about the landscape of Denver Radio. The Westword praised the show for doing so well in ratings. However the picture they put up of BJ and Jamie is not very flattering. This is the last year you can get these two flavors of girl scout cookies.

The Westword just published an article talking about the landscape of Denver Radio. The Westword praised the show for doing so well in ratings. However the picture they put up of BJ and Jamie is not very flattering.

Jamie has a bet for the Broncos vs Bills games and it's a pretty good one. The Westword just published an article talking about the landscape of Denver Radio. The Westword praised the show for doing so well in ratings. However the picture they put up of BJ and Jamie is not very flattering. This is the last year you can get these two flavors of girl scout cookies.

What's the best way to make a change in your community? You could gather signatures and put a question on the ballot, like some animal welfare activists did last year. Or, you could put on a mask, grab a bullhorn, barge into a local restaurant, and demand they stop serving foie gras, a French delicacy made from fattened duck or goose liver. That's exactly the tactic a new group of animal lovers have been trying, and the results are… mixed. Producer Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love are talking about these so-called “foie gras terrorists,” as well as an under-the-radar zoning change making waves on the west side of town and listener responses to our episode yesterday about Denver rents with Drew Hamrick of the Apartment Association of Metro Denver. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We're putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It's family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com. Paul quoted this video of Anthony Bourdain on foie gras, this video The Duck Alliance shared with us of their NYE action at Mizuna, and Westword's coverage of the Duck Alliance's previous activities in Denver.  What do you think about the foie gras protests? We want to hear from you! Is foie gras delicious? Should Denver ban it? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new year is not yet a week old, and there are already tons of local stories to catch up on. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to speculate about Mayor Mike Johnston's new hire to help shape the future of downtown, Bill Mosher, including his connections with the Colorado Convention Center scandal of 2018. They also preview the 2026 governor's race now that AG Phil Weiser has thrown the first official hat into the ring, discuss the recent attack on a TV journalist in Grand Junction, and look back on former President Jimmy Carter's fascinating legacy in Denver. And of course, our first round of wins and fails of 2025. Paul mentioned this piece by Colorado Politics reporter Marianne Goodland and the fate of Merf's hot sauces.  What do you think local journalists' role in covering Trump 2.0? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Given how many people have flocked to Denver because of our proximity to the mountains, craft beer scene, or recreational marijuana, you'd think it'd be easier than ever for singles to connect. But maybe shared interests aren't the problem; maybe it's a question of shared goals? Or maybe the apps just aren't as effective as we'd like to think they are? Westword's Hannah Metzger and Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton from the Denver Post have both been reporting on dating in the Mile High, and earlier this year they joined host Bree Davies to share their insights into how people are — or aren't — having luck finding partners. We're revisiting this conversation today to dig into the pros and cons of Denver's dating scene, whether or not the apps have become obsolete, and how the city's stereotypes affect how we date. Hannah reported on our city's dating scene being a “dumpster fire” and also recapped the Denver edition (and all-time least-successful season) of “Married at First Sight.” Megan interviewed the guys who took out a billboard looking for love for their single brother and wrote about how “Menver” has fizzled out; she also joined us in February to talk about dating stereotypes. Do you have a Denver dating horror story or meet-cute anecdote to share? Leave us a voicemail or shoot us a text at 720-500-5418 and you might hear it on the show! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this December 26th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With food prices on the rise, it was a challenging year for Denverites who love to eat. But who are we to back down from a challenge! Westword food & drink editor Molly Martin and contributor Jake Browne join producer Paul Karolyi to talk about 2024's most exciting new restaurants, biggest trends, saddest closings, and their best bites of the year. Plus, a round of predictions for 2025. Do you have a prediction for how Denverites will eat and drink in 2025? We want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Molly mentioned her recent list of Denver's top 100 restaurants and her article comparing local bagel prices. Paul mentioned this New York Times article on how the junk food industry is responding to the rise of Ozempic. If you haven't heard it already, don't miss the episode Paul mentioned about Jake's experience at BRUTØ.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 18th episode: Meow Wolf - Use code 4PACK at checkout when you purchase your tickets online. PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health University of Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When 6-year-old JonBenét Ramsey was found murdered in her family's home in Boulder in 1996, the story made national headlines. Almost 30 years later, the death remains unsolved but the true crime machine has consumed it, producing endless speculation, conspiracy theories, and plenty of sensational media coverage. This month, Netflix released “Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey,” putting Colorado and this gruesome crime once again in the spotlight. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by regular guest Justine Sandoval to dig into the controversy around the coverage of this murder and discuss why yet another documentary doesn't seem to bring anything new to a case that is still unsolved. We discussed the footage from Geraldo Rivera's “mock trial” in 1997, but neglected to mention Westword's report that Rivera recently apologized to John Ramsey for the episode.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about JonBenet Ramsey and the true-crime machine? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ If you enjoyed the interview with Ethan Hemming, the President and CEO of Warren Village, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this December 11th episode: Office of Climate Action PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday and we're looking back at the biggest stories of the week. First, a big new investigation from CPR reveals that a foundation meant to support mental health and substance use treatment problems may be sending millions in taxpayer dollars to some potentially shady places. Then, the new plan for Civic Center Park has sparked controversy over a proposed modern redesign of the historic space. Host Bree Davies is joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and Westword staff writer Catie Cheshire to dig the oversight scandal and the park plans, as well as the sad ending of Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs, the Parade of Lights turning 50, and more wins and fails of the week. By focusing on the stories and issues shaping our neighborhoods, City Cast Denver bridges gaps and connects the dots in Denver. Become a member today to support local journalism that connects.  Catie mentioned fellow Westword writer Jason Heller's piece digging into the latest chapter in the Tattered Cover saga and a new book on Nikola Jokić from former Denver Post reporter Mike Singer. Justine talked about the new Engines Off For Food Trucks program. What do you think about the plans for Civic Center Park? We want to hear your take! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this December 6th episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Unit E Records Colfax Ave BID Office of Climate Action Coloradogives.org PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and we're flipping through the headlines you need to know before the holiday break. First, the 160th anniversary of the Sand Creek Massacre is on Friday, and Colorado is still grappling with how we've interpreted our own shameful history. Then, Mayor Johnston is already backtracking on some controversial comments he made on Trump's “Operation Aurora,” DPS votes to shut down more neighborhood schools, and state legislators look to overhaul the system for filling vacant seats. Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to dig into these headlines plus the Casa Bonita union vote and more. Bree and Olivia talked about our show last week on endangered architecture with Historic Denver's John Deffenbaugh; here's the correct information on the location of our smoke stacks in the City and County's seal. Bree also mentioned our list of local volunteer opportunities we published in the Hey Denver newsletter.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 26th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Unit E Records Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Denver's got no shortage of places to grab a drink — from fancy lounges with cocktail programs to those down and dirty dives that serve up cheap shots with a smile, there's a place for every taste. But how do you choose? Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin just published the paper's annual “Best Bars We Can't Live Without” and it's a wonderful doozy of a list! She joins host Bree Davies and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into the Mile High's vast selection of watering holes, and share thoughts on the best bars in Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 25th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Unit E Records - Use promo code CITYCAST for a free vinyl record with subscription Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and we're looking at the big stories of the week. First, President-elect Donald Trump's pick of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services has sparked national concerns due to RFK's skepticism over vaccines. More surprising? Gov. Jared Polis' endorsement of him. Meanwhile, the future of RiNo's business improvement district is uncertain — some property owners who lobbied for the creation of BID now want to get rid of it, arguing in a petition that the BID's job is done. Host Bree Davies and Westword editor Patty Calhoun dig into the governor's latest drama and RiNo's predicament; then, producer Olivia Jewell Love joins to talk about one listener's concerns when it comes to recycling in Denver. Bree talked about an RFK Jr. exposé in Vanity Fair from earlier this year, plus her piece for Westword on some of RiNo's past history as an arts hub. We mentioned another Colorado connection in recent Trump cabinet nominations.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this November 19th episode: Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health Unit E Records Warren Village Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're looking for a great cheap eat or a splurge night out, there's never been a better time to eat well in Denver. New bars and restaurants are opening all the time! Every month, our newsletter editor Peyton Garcia rounds up all the new spots that opened (and all the ones that closed), so today we're trying something new on the podcast. Peyton joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the most exciting openings and the most lamentable closings, plus all the other food news, trends, and gossip that hungry Denverites need to know. What's your favorite donut in Denver right now? We need to know! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Bree mentioned her conversation with Chereka and Fathima Dickerson about their family's Welton St. Cafe and Peyton's interview with Michelin Star-winning chef Johnny Curiel. Peyton mentioned DJ Bear Grillz's interview with Westword. Paul talked about Bo Porytko's great quotes and alluded to our ongoing conversation about restaurants closing and the tipped minimum wage. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 11th episode: Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Election Day! We're talking about the biggest stories of the week — Governor Jared Polis says everything has been fixed after the secretary of state's election security breach, but we still have questions as Coloradans steel themselves to watch the results roll in tonight. Then, Five Points business owners say the light rail on Welton Street has been a business killer for decades, and they want it gone. Meanwhile on the Northside, cyclists took to the streets over a drastically diminished plan for a new bike lane. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to talk elections security and unpopular transit decisions, plus hear from listeners about voting for Trump in deep blue Denver.  For more on the Libertarian Party's legal case against the secretary of state's office over the elections security breach, CPR is covering the proceedings. Paul mentioned his reporting on the Trump rally in Aurora and alluded to local billionaire Robert Smith's involvement with Spangalang Brewery. We also talked about last week's episode with the rapping realtors' viral moment, plus Kyle Clark's Next segment about that cringeworthy video. Patty talked about Jena Griswold's press conference about 11 ballots in Mesa County.  What do you think about the light rail line on Welton St.? Should it be removed? Or fixed? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 5th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and we're digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, two local organizations based on innovative strategies for helping our unhoused neighbors — the Denver Basic Income Project and the Denver VOICE — have run into serious funding trouble and could be on the verge of shutting down. Producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi talk about how they may or may not fit into Mayor Mike Johnston's vision for ending unsheltered homelessness in Denver. Then, why does the proposed fur ban have so many exceptions? And finally, a listener question about an eyesore in Cap Hill.  Olivia mentioned this Westword article on the fur ban that Denverites will vote on this November.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think about the DBIP and Denver VOICE? We want to know what those organizations mean to you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this September 24th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery B:CIVIC Logan School Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wage theft is a big problem in Denver, and it's getting worse. The Denver Auditor's Office recovered more than $2 million in stolen wages last year, but according to today's guest, that is just a drop in the bucket. Matthew Fritz-Mauer is the executive director of Denver Labor, the division of the auditor's office that investigates and remediates wage theft, which recently deployed its new subpoena power in an investigation into three local strip clubs. He's on today with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how pervasive wage theft is across a variety of industries, what you should do if you suspect you're a victim, and break down the strip club investigation.  Matthew referenced this Westword article on his office issuing its first subpoenas to three local strip clubs.  Do you think you might be a victim of wage theft? Definitely get in touch with Matthew and Denver Labor, but we want to hear the story, too! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 23rd episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery B:CIVIC Logan School Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former president Donald Trump doubled down on his erroneous statement at last week's debate that a Venezuelan gang has “taken over” Aurora, Colorado, suggesting at a Friday news conference that if he wins a second term in office he would order a mass deportation of Venezuelan newcomers, starting in the Denver suburb. So Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Aurora's moment on the national stage and dig into the other big stories of the week — from a couple of hotly contested historic preservation fights and a new vision for Speer Boulevard to the latest big step forward for Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke's dream of developing the parking lots around Ball Arena. Paul referenced this Instagram post from the Weathervane Cafe about 1709 N. Williams St., and this episode of The Daily about Trump's suggestion that Haitian newcomers are “eating dogs” in Springfield, Ohio. Patty talked about Aurora's cultural renaissance and referenced two of Westword writer Bennito Kelty's recent articles on the Venezuelan gang hysteria in Aurora: “Amid National Spotlight, Aurora Disputes Venezuelan Gang Has ‘Taken Over' City” “Tren de Aragua's Lack of Identifying Symbols, Frequent Impostors Could Spur Overreaction, Crime Writer Says” What do you think about the way Trump is talking about Aurora? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver If you enjoyed today's interview with B:CIVIC'S Director, Jess Welser, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this September 17th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Life Surge What the Buff Podcast Cosmic Howl at Meow Wolf Denver PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plus, a chat with Jenn Zuko at Blue Dime Cabaret and our weekly Colorado Headliners   In this episode of the OnStage Colorado Podcast, hosts Alex Miller and Toni Tresca get immersed in the immersive theater scene in the state. Touching on two Westword stories Toni wrote this week, we get into what makes an immersive production immersive, the companies creating it in the state and what the future looks like for this growing art form.   Later in the episode, Toni catches up with Jenn Zuko from Blue Dime Cabaret. The popup cabaret was performing at DV8 in Boulder, but with the venue recently closing they'll be at Liquor Pie in Westminster in the coming months. Blue Dime Cabaret serves up a mix of burlesque, vaudeville, comedy and more.   And as usual we'll walk through this week's Colorado Headliners, our Top 10 list of cool stuff to check out onstage in Colorado. This week's Headliners:   Always … Patsy Cline, Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, Johnstown, Sept. 17-Nov. 10.  Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express, Vintage Theatre, Aurora, Sept. 20-Oct. 20  Wicked Wanderings, Chautauqua Park, Boulder, Sept. 21-Oct. 27 The Rocky Horror Show, Two Cent Lion, The People's Building, Aurora, Sept. 21-Oct. 3 Kimberly Akimbo, Buell Theatre, Denver Center, Sept. 22-Oct. 5 Murder at Haunted Blood Mansion, Adams Mystery Playhouse, Denver, thru Nov. 10 Dial M for Murder, Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, Sept. 19-Oct. 6 The Bluebird, Millibo Art Theatre, Colorado Springs, Sept. 19-22 Enemy of the People, BETC, Denver Savoy, Sept. 26-Oct. 13 Devil's Crush, Wonderbound, Denver, Oct. 17-27 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Upcoming Shows01:26 Reviews of Recent Theater Productions05:12 Audience Engagement and Feedback08:45 Theater Criticism and Community Response15:18 Exploring Immersive Theater in Denver26:47 The Evolution of Immersive Experiences35:56 Upcoming Shows and Colorado Headliners45:53 Interview with Jen Zuko of Blue Dime Cabaret

Exactly one year after giving out its first stars to Colorado restaurants, the Michelin Guide is back with an updated guide to our local restaurant scene in 2024. So we're skipping our usual Tuesday news round-up, and Westword food editor Molly Martin is joining producer Paul Karolyi to dish on the most surprising winners, biggest snubs, and what Monday's announcement means for Denver chefs, restaurateurs and eaters.  Molly has a list of all the new winners, and the article she wrote last week with her predictions. We also discussed Jake Browne's hilarious review of Brutø and our conversation with Jake about it on the podcast last week.  What do you think about the new winners this year? Do you have a fave that got snubbed? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your take on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 10th episode: Levitt Pavilion Life Surge Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Michelin Guide returns to Colorado next week to award its highly-anticipated stars to local restaurants with the right kind of high-end culinary chops. So, who will make the cut? Can last year's winners retain their glory? And what does it all mean for Denver's dining scene anyway? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by writer and former fine-dining server Jake Browne to dig into the Mile High's more recent foray into the world of Michelin glory and what Colorado has to gain from rockstar chefs and big-ticket culinary tourism. We discussed Jake's review of BRUTØ for Westword. Paul mentioned this great article from The New York Times about how the Michelin Guide has changed and why Michelin came to Colorado last year.  What do you think about the Michelin Guide on its first anniversary in Colorado? We want to hear your predictions, hot takes, and feelings about food media! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 5th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Colfax Bid - Get your tickets to the Colfax Crawl! YMCA of Denver - Sign up for a free 7 day trial membership All American Reptile and Plant Expo - Use code City for 10% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday and we're talking about the biggest stories of the week. First, is the big exodus of businesses from South Broadway really that bad for Denver and good for Englewood? Times are always changing in the Mile High City, but the vibe shift is real. Then, the New York Times took another stab at its visitor's guide to “36 Hours in Denver,” and we have thoughts. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword staff writer and returning fave Catie Cheshire to dig into these stories — plus our wins and fails of the week.  Paul talked about the time he accidentally almost joined the Clayton Members Club; he also mentioned some hope for downtown, and an AI true crime story. Bree talked about Westword's profile of an unhoused handyman who died by suicide, country music star Scott McCreery, and local author Manuel Aragon's stunning photos of Lakeside. Catie mentioned the power outages along Broadway.  Denver Food + Wine Fest ticket giveaway! If you are a member and you want a chance to win two free tickets to the Shake and Brake Showdown cocktail competition this weekend, fill out this form. We're also giving away a pair of tickets to new members who join before Sept. 4. So if you want ad-free listening, a weekly members-only events newsletter, and the chance to win two tickets, become a member today! What do you think about Englewood? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this August 30th episode: Denver Health PineMelon - Use promo code LABORDAY for $100 off your first delivery “Colfax Crawl” with the Colfax Ave BID All American Reptile and Plant Expo Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trash mountains, rat infestations, no hot water for days — every day seems to bring a new horror story about unlivable conditions facing renters across the metro area. Out in Aurora, dozens of tenants were forced onto the streets when the city condemned their apartment building (and the landlord blamed a Venezuelan gang). Meanwhile, in Denver, a group of tenants is calling on the state attorney general to investigate alleged conflicts of interest around the city's new rental licensing program. Denver Post neighborhoods reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton and Westword reporter Catie Cheshire join host Bree Davies to discuss their recent reporting on tenant issues, the landlords behind the horror stories, and the new tools some renters are using to push back. Bree mentioned Hey Denver‘s' guides on getting your safety deposit back, how to form a tenants union, and other resources for renters in Denver. You are officially enlisted to Landlord Watch! If you're a renter, we want to hear about your experiences, good or bad. Do you have a great landlord you want to shout out? Or a terrible landlord story to tell? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬   For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Wana Brands Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heartbreak — it's a familiar feeling for Denverites over the past few years as too many longtime favorites shut down. Soon, you won't be able to stand on 13th Ave. with another late-night slice from Benny Blanco's. You'll never catch a matinee at The Esquire or the Chez Artiste ever again. Mutiny Info Cafe is pulling up stakes for Englewood and The Mercury Cafe is up for sale again. The future of Denver's most defining institutions is unclear — so we're celebrating the ones that are still going strong! Oak Creek bar owner and AAA spokesperson Skyler McKinley and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval join host Bree Davies to celebrate the reliable restaurants, bars, and attractions that still make Denver feel like Denver. Bree mentioned her Westword cover story on the youth boxing program at 20th Street Rec Center.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What are your favorite Old Denver spots? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this August 21st episode: Meow Wolf Wana Brands Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Smashed with crispy edges or thick and juicy? Plain or piled high with a crazy array of toppings? American cheese, blue cheese, or no cheese? These are just some of the factors we considered when taking a closer look at Denver's burger scene. From the most affordable to the most indulgent, host Bree Davies is joined by Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin to examine and rate the Mile High's best patties between two buns. Want more Denver burger content? Check out our burger battle episode from way back in 2021, or get a little history on the Cherry Cricket from when we stopped by to learn more about the famous burger dive's origins. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Check out Meow Wolf's Adulti-Verse, returning Wednesday, September 4th! Fall asleep, get pain relief, or just chill out with Wana Brands' Optimals line Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and we're digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, what should the City of Denver do with a decommissioned, old power plant? The clock is ticking for a potential purchase, so producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with Westword editor Patty Calhoun to discuss why Xcel Energy hasn't demolished the plant in Sun Valley and the possibility that it could be converted into a new food hall, as neighbors have been hoping for years. Plus, Colorado's most famous election denier could be going to prison. As the jury deliberates in the case of former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters, Paul and Patty review the arguments on both sides and the implications for November's election. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ If you enjoyed the interview with Jacob Smith, the executive director of National Organizations for Youth Safety, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this August 13th episode: Choir League See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Denverse PineMelon: Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and Westword editor Patty Calhoun is joining us to help break down the biggest stories of the week. First, who is responsible for e-scooters unsafely zipping down sidewalks? Denverites have been having that debate ever since the scooter companies first arrived in 2018, and now City Councilman Chris Hinds has a new idea to promote safe scooting. So we're talking e-scooters, the nepotism scandal rocking Denver's tiny suburb of Lakeside, and an interesting new vendor that made an appearance at First Friday on Santa Fe last week. Bree mentioned this past episode about Denver's legendary lost music venue, The Family Dog. Paul quoted from this article on municipal firefighter budgets: “As Wildfires Burn, Are U.S. Cities Spending Too Much on Their Fire Departments?” What do you think about scooters on the streets of Denver in 2024? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver If you enjoyed the interview with Jacob Smith, the executive director of National Organizations for Youth Safety, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: National Organization of Youth Safety - #NYTEC2024 (Sept. 20 and 21) See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Regional Air Quality Council - Sign up for summer ozone text alerts Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. PineMelon: Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is cannabis journalism? In episode 71, Denver Westword's News and Cannabis Editor Thomas Mitchell sits down with us for a fun chat! We discuss how Tommy got into his role at the 47-year old magazine, what his day to day is like, and his various preferences for strains and cannabis brands across the state of Colorado. With a circulation of around 67,000 people plus thousands more eyeballs online, his job is just as important as ever with the Colorado industry facing some serious turbulence. Join us as we explore his journey through the evolving media landscape, the challenges of covering cannabis and current events, and his vision for impactful journalism in Denver. Watch the full interview on YouTube here.

It's Tuesday and we're digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, the mere proposal of a new bike lane on the Northside already has people up in arms over precious parking spots. But does a lack of parking really add up to a loss of customers? Then, Glendale has been trying for decades to revive itself as an entertainment destination for adults. With the new “4 Mile District” breaking ground and Alamo Drafthouse signing on, could this finally be the tiny municipality's moment? Plus, listeners weigh in “Peter Pan syndrome” and its impact on dating in Denver.  Paul recommends this super wild breakdown of the whole 4 Mile District Saga (so far) from the Glendale Cherry Creek Chronicle and this more measured report from Westword in 2015. He is also delighted to share the Mike Dunafon/Wyclef Jean collab, “The Trap.” Newsletter editor Adrian González pointed us in the direction of this CityLab article on the bike lane situation: “Note to Store Owners: Not All Holiday Shoppers Drive.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about the new bike lane coming to W 29th Ave.? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Culinary Dropout PineMelon: Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Young people have long flocked to Denver for our proximity to the mountains, Red Rocks' stellar concert calendar, tons of local breweries, and even access to local weed. But do they ever come here for… love? If so, how do single Denverites even meet? Westword's Hannah Metzger and Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton from the Denver Post have both been reporting on dating in the Mile High and have some interesting insights into how people are — or aren't — having luck finding partners. They join host Bree Davies to dig into why the apps aren't always the place to be and how much this city's stereotypes can help or hinder singles looking to make meaningful love connections. Hannah reported on our city's dating scene being a “dumpster fire” and also recapped the Denver edition (and all-time least-successful season) of “Married at First Sight”. Megan interviewed the guys who took out a billboard looking for love for their single brother and wrote about how “Menver” has fizzled out; she also joined us a few months a go to talk about the dating stereotype. Do you have a Denver dating horror story — or a metro area meet-cute anecdote to share? Leave us a voicemail or shoot us a text at 720-500-5418 and you might hear it on the show! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Denver Health Babbel: Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST SCP Colorado Springs Hotel: Book with code CITYCAST for 20% off weekday stays! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So, where does Colorado taxes on marijuana go anyway? Host Jack Armstrong speaks with Westword magazine's Thomas Mitchell about the state of Marijuana tax revenue in the Rocky Mountain (high) state. Thank you to Cannapages for making today's show possible. For more information visit cannapages.com .

It's Tuesday, and we're rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, Union Station is set to unveil the results of a six-month, $11-million renovation this weekend, but is this a revolution for the transit hub? Or yet another evolution in its 110-year history? Then we discuss the Denver Police Department's crack down on what is apparently a huge public safety issue: expired car registrations and temporary plates. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to share license plate hacks, Union Station secrets, and respond to a listener comment on our skepticism ahead of Denver's Fourth of July drone show last week. Paul quoted Axios Denver's coverage of a recent public safety survey. Patty mentioned Councilman Flynn's “investigation” into expired license plates, and we discussed Karl Christian Krumpholz's terrific comic history of Union Station. What do you think about DPD cracking down on expired license plates? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver If you enjoyed today's sponsored interview with the Regional Air Quality Council's Communications and Programs Coordinator, Kelsey Simpkins, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: Regional Air Quality Council Blanco Cocina + Cantina PineMelon Babbel “Lavender Festival” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who is responsible for making the Mile High's food scene stand out? What restaurants have created the culinary landscape we know today as unmistakably Denver? In other words, if there was a Mt. Rushmore of this city's dining innovators, who would be immortalized? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Westword's food editor Molly Martin to dig into our culinary history and create the ultimate list of the people behind the biggest influences on the tastes, innovations, and culture of Denver. Paul mentioned the Jason Sheehan piece on Biker Jim that sparked this conversation. Molly talked about Bill St. John's remembrance of Mel and Janie Master, which first mentioned the idea of a culinary Mt. Rushmore. Bree talked about Adam Cayton Holland's reporting on the Chubby's family saga, Alan Prendergast's story on the formation of Greektown, Patty Calhoun's look back at the fern bars of Denver, and History Colorado's entry on “Daddy” Bruce Randolph Sr. and the Epworth Foundation's Feed-A-Family program. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Blanco Cocina + Cantina Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday, and we're rounding up the news of the week. First, the primaries are over! Now it's time for the Democrats and Republicans to do some soul searching — where will these two internally divided parties go from here? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by our politics and green chile correspondent, Justine Sandoval, to dig into the details of the big losses and surprising wins from this primary. Then, it's really summer now and that means lots of outdoorsy activities and chance encounters with wild animals. Producer Olivia Jewell Love joins to share her list of the top five scariest creatures in Colorado. And of course, our wins and fails of the week.  The team talked about Tiffany Caudill''s post on X on election night and this video of the Colorado Democrats trolling GOP party chair Dave Williams. Bree mentioned Jason Sheehan's brilliant tribute to Biker Jim. Paul discussed our interview with Congresswoman Lauren Boebert and Bennito Kelty's piece for Westword about Bike to Work Day. Justine talked about the first case of West Nile in Colorado this year. We want to hear from you! Who would you nominate to be on Denver's culinary Mt. Rushmore? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: RAQC Denver Health  Denver Century Ride PineMelon Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's no secret — Denver is a tourist destination. But knowing which attractions are worth your time and money can be tricky. If you want to really wow your friends from out of town, which destinations are just tourist traps, and which ones are the real gems, you know — the tourist treats? Last year, host Bree Davies, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love built a list of their can't-miss and definitely-pass attractions from downtown D-town to the ski towns of the Rockies.  We want to hear from you, too! What are the Denver-area tourist attractions that you really unabashedly love? And which made you feel empty inside? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood on the Tourist Trap Hotline, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Here are links to all the places we mentioned: Royal Gorge Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave The Denver Zoo Downtown Aquarium Water World Manitou Cliff Dwellings Tiny Town Winter Park  Peyton mentioned a 2022 Westword investigation into the Downtown Aquarium — we chatted with reporter Catie Cheshire about her findings. Bree also mentioned our tour of Water World last summer. Paul brought up Raven Payment's Twitter thread on the Manitou Cliff Dwellings Every weekday, you can get even more recommendations for fun stuff to do in our Hey Denver newsletter! Subscribe here or by texting “Denver” to 66866 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf PineMelon Monarch Casino  Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some residents living within smelling distance of the Nestlé Purina PetCare plant in Elyria-Swansea have had enough, and have filed a class action lawsuit against the global enterprise. Could the operation's odiferous offenses be bad enough to be considered unlawful? Then, Governor Polis signed HB 1051 into law last week, taking aim at the predatory towing practices of Wyatts Towing in particular. Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to talk the gentrification of stinky air issues, private business-specific legislation, carpetbagger Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, and more news of the week. Bree mentioned a previous episode about Senator Julie Gonzales' towing woes and Skyler McKinley's deep dive into the history and water-conscious future of Riverside Cemetery. Patty talked about her co-ownership of the Wonder View Tower, which resides in congressional district 4.    For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera Arvada Center Summer Concert Series Museum of Outdoor Arts  PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At first glance, Riverside Cemetery's parched plots might appear to be abandoned — but a closer look reveals the graveyard is actually ahead of the curve when it comes to water conservation. The dusty burial ground is also the city's oldest-operating cemetery, home to headstones for some of the Mile High's earliest and most important figures — including Clara Brown and Silas Soule, and the most Civil War veterans of any graveyard in the state. As Memorial Day approaches, Skyler McKinley went digging around to find out more about the long lost history of important Denverites and what the future could look like if more cemeteries embraced an environmentally-conscious approach. Read Skyler's cover story on Riverside Cemetery for Westword this week. Bree and Skyler also talked about the Tabor Grand Opera House, which once stood at 16th and Curtis Streets. We're doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Thanks! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf's Danceportation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday and we're rounding up the big stories of the week. First, the anti-war protest camp that ran for more than three weeks on Auraria campus was dismantled over the weekend, but questions remain over what led to the decision. Then, is violent crime a growing issue for Colorado? According to a new report from US News and World Report, we're the 3rd most dangerous state in America — but a closer look at the data reveals a more complex picture. Finally, the City of Denver says sales of illegal hot dogs are on the rise, leaving us wondering: what's so bad about an non-permitted dog? Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to dig into these stories, plus a listener comment shines a light on the Stanley Hotel's recent film industry past.  Bree mentioned a statement posted to Instagram by the Students for a Democratic Society after the dismantling of the Auraria encampment. We also discussed our previous episode on the fate of the Stanley Hotel and the original Stanley Film Festival that ran from 2013-2015. We also talked about our past episode on auto theft numbers going down.  We're doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Thanks! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf's Danceportation PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday, and we're breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, more and more students and community members are gathering on the Tivoli Quad at Auraria to protest Israel's war on Hamas, and negotiations with the administrators are at a standstill. So we've got the editor in chief of Metro State's student-run newspaper, Sara Martin, joining host Bree Davies and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk about rising tensions on campus ahead of graduation next week. Plus, decorum was supposed to be a priority at the legislature, but state lawmakers keep slugging it out on social media. And finally, DPD's conspicuous arrest of a hot dog vendor and more of our wins and fails of the week. We talked about Jesse Paul of the Colorado Sun's post on X about legislators' social media squabbles as well as Marianne Goodland's story on this issue from Colorado Politics. Sara mentioned her staff's recent Society of Professional Journalists awards; follow Sara's work on Twitter and in The Metropolitan. Justine mentioned the JeffCo GOP's controversial fundraiser guest and the Cobalt Abortion fund. Bree talked about the old Denver matchbooks story from Denverite and Westword's piece on hot dog vendor Alejandro Ramirez's arrest. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Fetch! Your trusted pet sitters and dog walkers Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and we're talking about the biggest stories shaping Denver today. First up, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert got a big boost from Republican Party leaders last week, so we're surveying the state of the races to represent Denver, Colorado Springs, the Eastern Plains and the Western Slope ahead of the congressional primaries in June. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk through the latest developments. Plus, Patty's got the scoop on possible changes coming to the city-owned Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave, the Tattered Cover's bankruptcy, and the historic preservation fight over El Chapultepec.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Colorado Wine Board Newman Center for the Performing Arts  Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices