Hello, Bucket Listers! Our team has been busy this week covering stories that get to the heart of some of Colorado’s most pressing issues. Safety is top of mind in Denver, where residents are demanding stronger action as pedestrian deaths have risen 50% this year. Across the state, we spoke with voters frustrated by Democratic leadership and asked what they want to see prioritized by the party. At the Denver Press Club, we checked in with Crafting for Democracy, a group “fighting fascism” by knitting community ties. And with spooky season upon us, we’ve rounded up Denver’s best haunted history attractions.
Pedestrian Deaths on Rise: What is Denver Doing?
According to Denver city officials, 25 pedestrians have been killed in Denver car crashes this year. While local officials, including DOTI executive director Amy Ford, have expressed their condolences for these incidents, Denver safety advocates are demanding more than words. Our Cassis Tingley continues her string of excellent reporting on the city’s transportation challenges by sitting down with Ford and others in the community to share what is being done to prevent more deaths.
Colorado Wants More From State Democrats
Although Coloradans have overwhelmingly voted for Democrats, a growing number of voters are dissatisfied with the party’s performance. With rising grocery and utility bills, Colorado Democrats are struggling to support Democrats, who many voters perceive as being primarily concerned with “niche social issues or celebrating legislative wins.” Our reporter, Mauricio Menedez, interviews voters across the state to learn about the issues they want the Colorado Democratic Party to prioritize moving forward.
Can Crafting Crush Fascism?
Every month, crafters filled a room in the back of the Denver Press Club with boxes of materials for Crafting for Democracy. This meetup began in 2024 and occurs on the second Friday of each month. The event provides attendees with space to work on their own projects and aims to “fight fascism” by fostering community among Denver residents. Journalist Sadie Gonzales attended the group’s October meeting and shares some of the stories she heard there.
Haunted History in Denver
Looking for some spooky fun that’s also a bit educational? This week, we published an updated Top 5 Guide to Haunted History Attractions in the Denver Metro area. The guide includes activities such as guided ghost tours for all ages, haunted landmarks, historic cemeteries, The Stanley Hotel and the Denver National Airport’s spooky secrets, making it ideal for ghost hunters and history buffs.
Stuff We Noticed
RTD Gets Its Own Detective Bureau. Earlier this month, the RTD Police Department Detective Bureau tasked five detectives with investigating crimes on RTD property. The unit is in charge of pursuing suspects across eight counties and forty municipalities. Julie McKinster, a Victims Advocate Program specialist, will also be available to assist victims. RTD’s internal unit hopes to speed up crime investigations and reduce reliance on external agencies for transit-related issues.
Colorado has the Country’s Lowest Obesity Rate. Good news! Colorado has the nation’s lowest obesity rate (25%). Obesity is linked to health issues like diabetes, heart disease and COVID, so having the lowest rate in the U.S. is a cause for celebration. Bad news? It is still 5% higher than the state’s 2019 level.
Pickle Fest Comes to Lakewood. Pickle lovers rejoice. Pickle Fest is tomorrow from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at WestFax Brewing Company in Lakewood. Organizers encourage people to “come dressed in green” to enjoy a variety of pickle vendors onsite, a pickle sample bar and the food truck, Mischief Pizza, with a special Pickle Pizza. The festival will also feature $5 pickles on sticks, a beer-chugging contest and other pickle-themed activities not to be missed.
That’s a wrap on this week’s news, Bucket Listers. Thanks for reading and for being part of our growing community of neighbors who care about what’s happening around them. If you liked what you read, forward this newsletter to a friend or family member and consider contributing to support our work. Your support keeps local, independent journalism alive and ensures stories that matter don’t go untold. Until next Friday, enjoy the crisp fall air, maybe catch a haunted tour, and we’ll see you back here with more neighborhood news that connects us all.
Warmest Regards,
Kathryn Cronin
Editorial Intern/Bucket List Community News
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