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City Cast Denver

Latest episodes

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7 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 34min

Will Denver Ban Flavored Tobacco Sales? Plus, Listeners Respond to Caring for Denver Investigation

This week, Denver's flavored tobacco ban takes center stage, sparking heated debates about youth vaping and community health. There's an intriguing look at Mayor Johnston's shift in stance and the reactions from locals. Additionally, listeners respond to the revealing findings of the Caring for Denver initiative, shedding light on mental health issues. The conversation also touches on the history of local pizza chains and employee ownership, highlighting the evolving dynamics of workplace culture. Tune in for a mix of community insights and urban politics!
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8 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 35min

Gov. Polis' Big New Transit Plan: More Buses, Fewer Cars, and 3,000 Miles of Bike Lanes?

Matt Frommer, Transportation and Land Use Policy Manager at the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, dives into Governor Polis's ambitious transportation plan aimed at reducing car dependency in Colorado. They discuss the proposed expansion of public transit options, including more buses and 3,000 miles of bike lanes, along with the integration of electric vehicle initiatives. Challenges like the need for better biking infrastructure and the transformation of urban spaces in Denver are also examined, highlighting the balance between safety, accessibility, and sustainability.
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9 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 52min

Taxpayers Spent $170M On What?! Plus, Civic Center’s Controversial New Look and Drones for Xmas

Justine Sandoval, a politics and green chile correspondent, and Catie Cheshire, a Westword staff writer, dive into the scrutiny surrounding the Caring for Denver Foundation's $170 million in taxpayer spending on mental health initiatives. They discuss concerns over transparency and effectiveness in funding. The duo also explores the controversial redesign of Civic Center Park, balancing historic preservation with modern use. Other local highlights include the closure of Biker Jim’s and a nostalgic look at the upcoming Parade of Lights.
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8 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 32min

Even Denny’s is Closing. What is Denver Without Diners?

Suzi Q. Smith, a poet and educator who reflects on Denver's unique diner culture, shares her nostalgia for these community hubs. She and Ethan Hemming, CEO of Warren Village, discuss the challenges Denver teens face in finding safe hangouts as diners close. They highlight the cultural significance of such spaces and the concerning trend of losing social venues. Their conversation underscores the importance of affordable community spots amidst rising costs, advocating for a more connected and supportive neighborhood ethos.
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7 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 34min

Sexy Food Hall Flop, Fancy Apartment Nightmares, and Forgetting the Eiffel Tower

This week’s discussion dives into the ambitious yet failed plans for a Hooters-style food hall in Denver. The hosts dissect the rapid decline of upscale food courts and the woes of luxury living as residents of X Denver face unfulfilled promises. There's a humorous look at the struggles of a local chef's food hall grappling with high costs and foot traffic. They also touch on the importance of community support, from local favorites to mental health initiatives, all while celebrating quirky tote bags in energetic conversation.
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12 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 35min

The Best Kid-Friendly Holiday Fun in Denver

Join David Gilbert, a local history enthusiast and parent, as he shares the best budget-friendly holiday fun in Denver. He discusses delightful traditions like choosing a holiday tree and highlights family activities including free hot cocoa and festive scavenger hunts. David also emphasizes magical light displays, such as those at the City Building and the Mile High Tree. Furthermore, he shares tips for enjoying family dining experiences and community events, ensuring memorable holiday moments without breaking the bank.
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10 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 31min

Your Guide to December 2024 in Denver

Lizzie Goldsmith, Producer for City Cast Denver, shares exciting recommendations for December in the Mile High City. She highlights festive shopping spots and unique social experiences, including a chocolate lover’s paradise and afternoon tea at renowned venues. Lizzie discusses the inclusive contra dance events and Sister Nancy's electrifying performance. Family-friendly activities like drive-through light shows and concerts also feature prominently, ensuring there's something joyful for everyone this holiday season!
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Nov 27, 2024 • 27min

What Denver Is Doing To Build Bike Lanes, Fix Sidewalks, Increase Composting, and More

Amy Ford, the head of Denver's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, discusses the city's ongoing infrastructure improvements. She talks about the balance urban planners must strike between bike lane safety and community needs, particularly concerning the contentious 29th Avenue project. Ford also highlights challenges with e-scooter accessibility and the importance of urban planning for people with disabilities. Additionally, she addresses the frustrations with Denver's composting services and the goal of achieving a 50% waste diversion rate by 2027.
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Nov 26, 2024 • 28min

Mayor Johnston’s Tiananmen Square Comments, a Senate Exodus, and Casa Bonita Goes Union

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: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmWhat do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬Learn 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
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Nov 25, 2024 • 24min

The 9 Best Bars in Denver (Plus, Some Honorable Mentions)

Molly Martin, Westword's food and drink editor, known for her annual bar list, teams up with Justine Sandoval, a political and culinary correspondent, to explore Denver's diverse drinking scene. They dive into the charm of local dive bars and trendy lounges, emphasizing the unique vibes that each spot offers. Highlights include insights on eclectic venues and the nostalgic value of neighborhood bars. Personal anecdotes add lively flair to their recommendations, making the Mile High bar culture come alive!

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