City Cast Denver

Join Justine Sandoval, a politics and green chili expert, local history buff David Gilbert, and Denver Public Library Director Rachel Fewell as they revisit Colorado's wildest viral moments. From the infamous Balloon Boy hoax to the humorous backflipping FBI agent fiasco, they explore how these stories reflect the state's culture. They also discuss the library's grand reopening and share insights on shifting perceptions about Aurora, all while inviting listeners to recall their own memorable Colorado moments.

With Election Day looming, the conversation heats up around Proposition 131 and the tight race for reforms like open primaries and ranked choice voting. Mayor Mike's sales tax hike for affordable housing raises eyebrows as listeners weigh in on its implications. Political heavyweights, including Senator Michael Bennet, debate the merits of these electoral changes. Beyond politics, excitement builds for the Denver Film Festival, showcasing local talent and unique stories that bring the community together.

Ian Silverii is a Democratic strategist and co-host of the Get More Smarter podcast, while Kelly Maher is a Republican strategist and former debate partner on 9News. They dive into the competitive dynamics of Colorado's eight congressional races, discussing candidate strengths and voter sentiments. Key topics include the impact of social issues like abortion and same-sex marriage, and the challenges facing the Republican Party in defining its identity. Predictions about the tight District 8 race between Evans and Caraveo add to the excitement!

Joe Rubino, a City Hall reporter for the Denver Post, shares insights on a pressing E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald's, highlighting food safety concerns in Colorado. The discussion dives into the ramifications of this health crisis on public perception and fast-food politics. Rubino also explores the ambitious redevelopment near Ball Arena, focusing on community impacts and the balancing act between urban development and affordable housing. Lastly, they touch upon the influence of political misinformation in local campaigns, raising questions about community engagement.

Patty Calhoun, Editor-in-chief of Westword, and Deep Singh Badhesha, a savvy lobbyist and campaign consultant, dive into the intricacies of Denver's pressing ballot measures. They tackle topics like proposed tax increases for healthcare and affordable housing, exploring their implications for the community. The conversation touches on the controversial slaughterhouse ban and collective bargaining rights for city employees, while also predicting how these measures might shape Denver's political future and reflect the city's priorities.

Mayor Mike Johnston, a dedicated advocate for affordable housing and homelessness solutions in Denver, discusses his success in getting 2,000 people off the streets but acknowledges ongoing challenges. He dives into the controversial proposed sales tax hike to fund housing, urging listeners to weigh its impact on struggling residents. Additionally, Johnston tackles crime concerns, highlighting incidents like the closure of a Natural Grocers due to theft and the struggles faced by local restaurants over wages. The mayor also addresses traffic safety measures and community policing strategies.

City officials are backpedaling on a protected bike lane amid community uproar and a leaked email revelation. Housing remains a hot topic as the mayor's budget proposal faces scrutiny from the city council. A fascinating Maurice Sendak exhibit showcases art aimed at children, blending whimsy with life's truths. Plus, listeners weigh in on Thanksgiving plans, including where to score deep-fried turkey and the future of Elitch Gardens in the wake of redevelopment. It's a lively look at Denver's current debates and delights!

WM. Riley Holmes and Joshua Emerson, Casa Bonita performers advocating for unionization, share their insights on the unique challenges within their roles. They discuss the push for safer working conditions and fair pay amid the revitalization of the beloved eatertainment venue. The duo tackles the complexities of maintaining artistry in a corporate environment and reflects on the impact of rowdy patrons on their performances. Matthew Campbell sheds light on the intersection of entertainment and labor, tying it all to the upcoming Denver Film Festival.

It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, Aurora councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky made an appearance at Trump’s rally at the Gaylord last Friday, now she claims she’s in possession of “haunting” video related to Venezuelan gang activity and is calling for an investigation into Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. Then, a reddit thread popped up with some wild urban legends about the Mile High City. Are any of them true? Producer Paul Karolyi, host Bree Davies, and producer Olivia Jewell Love dig into the lore, speculate about Jurinsky’s video, and share their wins and fails of the week. Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Denver and Hey Denver running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Denver today. Every member makes a difference!Paul spoke in more detail about his experience at the Trump rally on friend of the show JD Lopez’s podcast Left Hand Right Brain. He also talked about CBS’s 2023 report on Denver sending newcomers to Aurora, the mysterious building at Denver Federal Center, new business filings, and a big pumpkin. Olivia talked about some great voter guides for suburban elections and MAKfam. Bree mentioned our episodes about those “We Buy Ugly Houses” signs and Denver’s old Chinatown, as well as the Broadway Halloween Parade this weekend. What should we ask Mayor Johnston next week? Something about the election? How he feels about the Broncos’ rookie quarterback? His favorite new donut shop? We would love to put your questions to him directly. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and he might answer you directly: 720-500-5418‬For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/DenverLearn more about the sponsors of this October 18th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first deliveryLooking 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

Donna Lynne, the CEO of Denver Health, sheds light on the hospital's staggering $155 million deficit largely due to uncompensated care for vulnerable populations. She discusses the urgent need for a 0.34% sales tax increase to sustain essential healthcare services. Lynne also compares Denver's funding challenges to those of other safety-net hospitals nationwide. The conversation delves into the community's role in supporting accessible healthcare and the potential consequences if taxes aren't raised, including serious cuts to services.