Iris Serrano
Editorial Intern/Bucket List Community News
Hello there, Bucket Listers! This week’s newsletter is sponsored by Maverick PR, a full-service PR & communications agency trusted by brands in sustainable technologies, renewable energies, biotech and agri-business.
Have you heard the good news? Bucket List Community News showed up at the Colorado Press Association awards. We received 19 honors, with 11 of them being first-place prizes! We couldn’t have done it without your investment in us. It’s the last day of our Back to School Fundraiser and we’re asking that you make your contribution today so we can continue to shape the future of community journalism. If you still need convincing, read this and this and watch this. We’ve done everything we can think of. Now it’s up to you!
This week, our journalists covered Elyria-Swansea residents’ concerns about AI Data Centers and the Arvada Harvest Festival’s return despite the event’s permits being denied and more stories across the Denver metro.
Elyria-Swansea Residents Get Real about AI Data Centers
Residents, community leaders, and activists gathered in the Elyria-Swansea neighborhood to discuss AI data centers and the impact they’re having on the community. Khaleigh Reed reported on community members’ concerns about pollution, development and more.
Arvada Harvest Festival Pushes Ahead Despite No City Permits
The City of Arvada denied permits for the beloved Arvada Harvest Festival, but the celebration will still take place. Our Thomas Hinton looked into the festival’s impact and the organizers’ decision to hold a smaller version of the event.
Activists Use Denver Overdose Grief Day to Demand More Action
Advocates asked the Denver City Council to strengthen efforts to prevent overdose deaths and support recovery. Reporter Trinity Schermerhorn covered the meeting where council members pointed to existing resources aimed at preventing overdoses.
How Cookies Support These Local Nuns’ Sequestered Life
Capuchin Poor Clare nuns bake cookies four days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. as a way to support themselves. Reporter Linus Loughry spoke with the nuns to learn about the significance of these popular cookies and how sales will help them build their new home.
What Happened at the Denver Nuggets’ Affiliate Team Tryouts?
More than 90 basketball players arrived in Denver for a chance to be in the Denver Nuggets’ G League affiliate. Matthew Spivack sat down with Jaxson Baker to hear about his journey and pursuit of a spot in the league.
September 2026 Radio Show Recap
This month’s Bucket List Community News radio show on KGNU, hosted by editor Toni Tresca, covered some of the biggest stories in the Denver Metro. We talk to the new president of Emily Griffith Technical College, dig into the use of AI, the Anythink Nature Library, CU Boulder’s upcoming football season and more!
The Front Range had unhealthy ozone levels for more than 60 days. This summer was one of the worst for air pollution in the Front Range, compared to just 24 unhealthy ozone days last year. This can be explained by emissions from oil and gas operations, as well as wildfire smoke. Exposure can cause a range of respiratory issues.
Sloan’s Lake might get a $50 million restoration. Denver’s largest lake has been struggling with toxic algae blooms and shallower water, making it an unpleasant place for visitors. Mayor Mike Johnston revealed a restoration plan that still needs to be approved by the Denver Urban Renewal Authority Board and the Denver City Council.
Students at Colorado schools plan walkout to protest ICE. Over 100 high schools and middle schools across the state are planning a protest today after ICE agents detained parents outside of schools. The walkout is scheduled for this afternoon and those in the Denver area will meet at La Alma-Lincoln Park afterward.
Thank you so much for reading this week’s newsletter. As always, we’ll be in your inbox next week with more stories and headlines. Enjoy the long weekend! If you need some ideas of how to make the most of it, check out our guide to Labor Day weekend.
Here’s one last reminder to invest in us and the future of community journalism. Our fundraiser ends today! Don’t miss your chance to help us keep the community informed and connected.
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