The Flatirons in Boulder, Colorado, on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026.

Happy Friday, Bucket Listers! Today, there are several protests against ICE and Palantir taking place throughout the metro area. If you are going to protest, please be safe. This week, we bring you five stories that discuss a dangerous drug in plain sight, traffic safety in 2026, cellphone bans in schools, Marshall Fire survivors reuniting and the impact of warm weather. Please visit our website to check out all of our team’s local reporting.

Kratom’s Quiet Toll: Families Warn as Potent 7-OH Spreads

Smokes & Vapes in Glendale is one of many shops in Colorado that sell Kratom. Photo courtesy of Cole Bachman

A “natural” supplement advertised for pain relief has sparked concern in the local community. 7-hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7-OH, is derived from kratom and has earned the nickname “gas station heroin” for its strong opioid effect and ease of availability. As kratom usage grows in Denver, public health officials are working on regulations to limit its distribution. Our Cole Bachman reports on the impact of kratom poisoning and the government’s efforts to combat the drug.

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Kathryn Cronin is originally from Wilton, Connecticut and came to Colorado to attend the University of Colorado, Boulder in the fall of 2022. Kathryn is a senior in the College of Media, Communication...