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The Denver Zoo revealed that its baby African pancake tortoise has been named Maple, winning 49% of a reader poll. This marks the first successful breeding and hatching of an African pancake tortoise in the zoo's 129-year history. Maple resides with her mother, Waffles, and three male tortoises in the Tropical Discovery exhibit.
Denver residents are flocking to purchase Labubu dolls, a viral toy from China's Pop Mart. With prices at local shops ranging from $59.99 to $77.99, demand exceeds supply, leading to long lines and a resale frenzy. Authentic dolls feature a QR tag to distinguish them from counterfeits.
About 1.22 million Colorado residents rely on Medicaid, with 39% being children. Proposed cuts from President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act could jeopardize coverage for an estimated 377,000 residents, particularly affecting rural communities.
New restaurants are opening across Denver, showcasing diverse global flavors. The city's food and drink scene is evolving, attracting food enthusiasts. Notable new spots include offerings from various cuisines, reflecting the city's culinary growth.
Denver International Airport allows travelers to keep their shoes on during security screenings, following a nationwide policy change by the TSA. This marks the first time in 19 years that general passengers can skip the shoe removal requirement, which was established after a failed al-Qaeda shoe bomb plot.
Approximately 27,000 Coloradans face food assistance cuts due to President Trump's new legislation. The changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) raise work requirements and could leave many vulnerable populations without support. Local leaders express concern over the potential rise in food insecurity.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston proposes an $800 million bond package for infrastructure projects on the November ballot. The proposal includes various improvements across public health, parks, housing, and infrastructure, reflecting extensive public input. A formal package will be submitted to the City Council for a vote in the coming weeks.
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science unearthed a partial dinosaur vertebra fossil 763 feet below the surface during a geothermal drilling test. The fossil, linked to herbivorous dinosaurs such as the Thescelosaurus or Edmontosaurus, is now displayed in the museum's "Discovering Teen Rex" exhibition.
The family of Megan Trussell, a University of Colorado student found dead in Boulder Canyon, questions the suicide ruling by investigators and has initiated an independent probe. Her parents believe insufficient investigation was conducted and have gathered community support to seek further evidence regarding their daughter's death.
Colorado lawmakers face the challenge of cutting billions more from the state budget after President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The bill is projected to result in a $500 million loss in revenue and significant health insurance coverage reductions for residents. Lawmakers must address these cuts before reconvening on January 14.