City Cast Denver

It’s the most delicious time of year here in Colorado. The farmers markets are buzzing, the roadside chile stands are roasting, and the locally grown produce is overflowing from grocery store shelves all across the metro area. So we got our whole team together to do some research and swap crazy, fun facts about Palisade peaches, Rocky Ford melons, Olathe sweet corn, and of course Pueblo chiles. Olivia would like to let you know that there’s a big truckload sweet corn sale coming up on September 7 at Mile High Thrift. Do you know any crazy fun facts about peaches, chiles, melons or corn? We’d love to hear them! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬Recommended ReadingPaul learned about Pueblo chiles and Dr. Michael Bartolo from these articles by Colorado Country Life and History Colorado. Olivia discussed “professor corn,” the cornsilk earworm, the correct pronunciation of Olathe, and the economics of sweet corn. Peyton shared highlights from the history of Palisade peaches, and previewed the 2024 Palisade Peach Festival. Bree looked to the City of Rocky Ford for historical facts, and gleaned a lot of great info from the Rocky Ford Growers Association as well as a story in The Gazette by Teresa Farney.For 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/CityCastDenverLearn more about the sponsors of this August 29th episode:Denver HealthLooking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Peter Heller, an acclaimed novelist known for his deep literary insights and new book 'Burn,' shares his expertise on Denver’s rich literary scene. He discusses the nuanced portrayals of the city that go beyond traditional Western tropes. Heller highlights connections between Denver and the Beat Generation, emphasizing cultural representation. He further explores novels that capture Denver's unique geography and personal narratives. The conversation also critiques the genre of Westerns, underlining themes of exploitation and friendship.

It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into all the stories Denverites are talking about this week. First, football is back! ESPN is broadcasting CU head coach Deion Sanders and the Buffs’ season opener from Folsom Field in Boulder this Thursday evening, but unlike at every home game last season, tickets are not sold out. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk about the fizzling enthusiasm for Coach Prime and his uneasy relationships with the press and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Then, we discuss the CEO carousel at Denver’s most famous burrito company (and revisit why Chipotle left the Mile High in the first place), and respond to your comments and questions on landlords and A/C in DPS. How do you feel about Coach Prime going into his second season at CU? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 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.fmLearn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode: Denver Health PineMelon - Use promo code LABORDAY for $100 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Phil Weiser, Colorado's Attorney General, dives into the controversial $24.6 billion merger between King Soopers and Safeway. He discusses the community's fears about rising grocery prices and job security, along with the significant legal challenges they face. Weiser outlines the potential impacts of reduced supermarket competition, including diminished access to fresh produce in vulnerable neighborhoods. The conversation also touches on historical antitrust concerns and the ongoing lawsuits aiming to block this major merger.

It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, DPS students returned to hot, sweaty classrooms this week as 29 Denver public schools are still without air conditioning. DPS leaders have a plan to help, but is anyone asking the right questions about the cost of a cool, consistent 72°? Chalkbeat Colorado bureau chief Melanie Asmar and stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson join producer Paul Karolyi to talk A/C in DPS, as well as a new city-led reconsideration of historic Denverite William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, and our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Paul mentioned the ALLCITY Network’s fundraising, REI’s recent stumbles, $5 cocktails, and this episode of The Daily about air conditioning. Joshua talked about Denver’s latest jobs report and wolf pups. Melanie discussed peaches on pizza and compost pick-ups expandingWhat do you think about the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave & Restaurant & Gift Shop? We’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts about the city-owned landmark! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 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 episode: Meow Wolf Wana Brands 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

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: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denverLearn 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

Denver is experiencing a wave of nostalgia as beloved venues like Benny Blanco's and The Mercury Cafe close their doors. The conversation celebrates enduring local treasures that keep the city's spirit alive, such as Panaderia Rosales and The Thin Man. Listeners are invited to reminisce about their favorite spots while exploring iconic locations like the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Personal stories highlight community connections and encourage everyone to cherish their own beloved Denver haunts.

Biker Jim, Denver's iconic hot dog entrepreneur, makes a triumphant return after a tumultuous legal battle. He discusses his new venture, Bikers and Bakers, which creatively combines hot dogs with innovative desserts. The conversation also dives into the heated debates over bike lanes and affordable housing in the city, highlighting the local community's challenges and victories. Listeners will find insight into the ongoing struggle against NIMBYism and the drive for more accessible housing amid affluent opposition.

Join Peyton Garcia, editor of Hey Denver, and Molly Martin, Westword's food and drink editor, as they explore the vibrant burger scene in Denver. They discuss everything from budget-friendly delights like Snarf Burger to extravagant creations at Snipe Burger. Unique flavors, including veggie and lamb options, take center stage. The duo highlights imaginative burgers such as the sour cherry chipotle and engages in a lively debate on casual versus high-end dining experiences, making this a must-listen for burger enthusiasts!

Deep Singh Badhesha, a savvy political analyst known for his sharp insights on Denver's political scene, joins the discussion. They delve into Colorado's heated property tax debates, revealing surprising alliances and the potential implications for voters. The conversation then shifts to the local restaurant scene, exploring how rising minimum wage and economic pressures are challenging beloved eateries. Badhesha also touches on the Tina Peters conviction and the ongoing homelessness count, framing these topics within the vibrant context of Denver's community dynamics.