Hello, Bucket Listers, and Happy New Year! We hope 2026 is off to a gentle, hopeful start for you. As we turn the page on another year, we want to begin by saying thank you, truly, for reading, sharing, contributing (you helped us raise over $16,000 in our #newsCOneeds fundraising campaign) and showing up for local journalism in 2025. Because of you, Bucket List Community News enters this new year stronger than ever. Our first newsletter of 2026 is all about reflection and intention: where we’ve been, what we’ve learned and how we plan to keep showing up for our neighbors in the year ahead. Let’s get into it.
Setting the Tone for 2026 at Bucket List
As 2026 begins, publisher Vicky Collins shares the five intentions guiding Bucket List Community News through a pivotal year for Colorado. From expanding hyperlocal coverage during major commemorations and midterm elections to deepening mentorship for student journalists statewide, the piece offers a clear look at how the newsroom is evolving. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at how Bucket List plans to keep showing up for its neighbors.
January Radio Show Looks Back and Forward
The January episode of the Bucket List Community News radio show opens 2026 by taking stock of the stories that defined Denver in 2025. Editor Toni Tresca, publisher Vicky Collins and radio editor Ryland Scholes connect the dots between national policy shifts and their local impacts. The conversation also looks ahead to the unresolved questions shaping the city in the year to come. Listen in for a thoughtful, wide-ranging reset as Denver turns the page.
A New Tuesday Newsletter Is Coming
We’re shaking things up in 2026. Starting on Jan. 6, we’ll be phasing out our standalone events newsletter (but don’t worry; we’ll still have events for you on our website) and we’re introducing a brand-new weekly Bucket Listicle on Tuesdays. Curated by Natalie Montoya and Ryland Scholes, this new feature will spotlight “I didn’t know that” info, insider tips for cool happenings, unexpected finds and interesting stuff you might otherwise miss. Think of it as your shortcut to the fun, quirky and wonderful corners of our community.
Stuff We Noticed
New Colorado Laws Take Effect. Nineteen new state laws went into effect on Jan. 1, touching everything from deceptive pricing practices and tenant screening to food trucks, gun show security, disability services and pregnancy-related care. Several bills also impact health insurance coverage, accessibility standards, veterinary workforce rules and digital asset kiosks. If you live or work in Colorado, these changes are worth a closer look.
ACA Cuts Begin to Ripple Outward. Major provisions of the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act are now taking effect, setting the stage for higher ACA marketplace costs, stricter Medicaid eligibility rules and reduced access to coverage for millions nationwide. Health care advocates warn that the changes could lead to delayed care, worse outcomes and financial strain, especially for low-income families and immigrants.
Baker Wine & Spirits Prepares to Close. After nearly 15 years on Broadway, Baker Wine & Spirits will close sometime this month. Co-owner Timmy Martin cites rising costs, tariffs and competition from grocery store wine sales as part of a growing squeeze on independent liquor stores. The closure reflects broader pressures facing Denver’s small businesses and the fragile future of neighborhood retail.
As we step into the new year, we’re carrying forward what has always defined Bucket List Community News: listening closely, reporting with care and staying rooted in community. This year will bring big moments, like the midterm elections, but also countless smaller stories that shape daily life across Colorado. We’re excited to keep telling them alongside you. Thank you for starting the new year with us, Bucket Listers. We’ll see you next week and all year long.
Warmest Regards,
Toni Tresca
Editor/Bucket List Community News
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