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Hollywood writers' contract deal includes historic AI rules

Writers and producers can agree to use AI on a project — but writers can't be made to use it.

Technology

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="agreement to finally end" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/27/wga-strike-end" data-vars-content-id="ee3cccfe-1b52-459f-827f-d58738b92e3e" data-vars-headline="Hollywood writers&#x27; contract deal includes historic AI rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/27/wga-strike-end" target="_self">agreement to finally end</a> the 148-day-long Hollywood writers strike includes landmark rules governing the use of AI in Hollywood projects. Why it matters: Legal, creative and labor norms around AI are unsettled, and the guidelines set today are likely to set patterns for the future.

Illustration of robot hands typing on a typewriter.

Millions more students eligible for free school meals

Some 3,000 more school districts will become eligible for meals at no cost.

Politics & Policy

Millions of more students will gain access to free breakfast and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lunch at school" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/05/10/school-districts-brace-for-rising-lunch-prices" data-vars-content-id="e72061e7-e003-4f19-94a2-fc521930a8fc" data-vars-headline="Millions more students eligible for free school meals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/05/10/school-districts-brace-for-rising-lunch-prices" target="_self">lunch at school</a>, the U.S. Department of Agriculture&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced" data-vars-click-url="https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2023/09/26/usda-expands-access-school-breakfast-and-lunch-more-students" data-vars-content-id="e72061e7-e003-4f19-94a2-fc521930a8fc" data-vars-headline="Millions more students eligible for free school meals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2023/09/26/usda-expands-access-school-breakfast-and-lunch-more-students" target="_blank">announced</a> Tuesday.Driving the news: The expansion of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) will make some 3,000 additional school districts serving more than 5 million students eligible for meals at no cost.

Charted: Congress' most rebellious freshman lawmakers

Voting against your party can be politically risky, especially for a newcomer.

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) has voted against the majority of her party 18% of the time since the start of this Congress — more than any other freshman representative or senator, according to Quorum data.Why it matters: Voting against one&#x27;s party can be politically risky — or a political asset for swing-seat lawmakers seeking to showcase their independence. The stakes are even higher with such narrow majorities governing both the House and Senate.

Democrat Bob Menendez finds unlikely defenders in the GOP

"It's up to him and the voters of New Jersey to make the resignation decision."

As embattled Sen. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bob Menendez" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/26/senate-democrats-bob-menendez-resign" data-vars-content-id="38e84781-58b4-4eec-b6d6-6ec73141bf04" data-vars-headline="Democrat Bob Menendez finds unlikely defenders in the GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/26/senate-democrats-bob-menendez-resign" target="_self">Bob Menendez</a> (D-N.J.) faces calls to resign from more than half of Senate Democrats, a surprising group of lawmakers is backing up his decision to stay and fight: Republicans.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a stark example of how the two parties have diverged on the question of what scandals and legal challenges disqualify someone from serving in public office.

Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says

The ruling comes days before the civil trial is set to begin on New York AG Letitia James' lawsuit.

A New York state judge ruled Tuesday that former <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="97ae79ad-42a1-418d-bd98-7cda21cca066" data-vars-headline="Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump</a> committed fraud by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="exaggerating his net worth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/08/trump-net-worth-inflated-billions-new-york" data-vars-content-id="97ae79ad-42a1-418d-bd98-7cda21cca066" data-vars-headline="Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/08/trump-net-worth-inflated-billions-new-york" target="_self">exaggerating his net worth</a> on financial records, according to a court filing. The big picture: The ruling by Judge Arthur Engoron comes days before the trial is set to begin on Democratic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New York Attorney General Letitia James&#x27;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/09/21/trump-new-york-criminal-referral-fraud-irs" data-vars-content-id="97ae79ad-42a1-418d-bd98-7cda21cca066" data-vars-headline="Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/09/21/trump-new-york-criminal-referral-fraud-irs" target="_self">New York Attorney General Letitia James&#x27;</a> civil fraud lawsuit against Trump and his business on allegations of falsifying business records.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to a crowd during a campaign rally on September 25, 2023 in Summerville, South Carolina.

Axios Denver named best newsletter in Colorado

The Axios Denver team took home four awards from the Colorado Press Association.

News

Denver Walls takes local street art international

Denver is now an international destination for street art and fans of it.

Things to Do

Five Colorado restaurants earn Michelin stars

The stars are given to top restaurants serving some of the best dishes in the world.

Lyons still remembering and recovering 10 years after historic Colorado floods

“It’s not a question of will this happen ... or even when it does happen again."

Native Roots pumpkin spiced cannabis part of new seasonal push

Colorado's Native Roots is releasing its pumpkin spice marijuana vape pen cartridges this week.

Culture

Move aside, Starbucks — pumpkin spice is now the domain of cannabis.What&#x27;s happening: Colorado&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Native Roots" data-vars-click-url="https://nativerootscannabis.com/" data-vars-content-id="ac74e72f-7e07-4e5d-8a14-3249955ff0d8" data-vars-headline="Native Roots pumpkin spiced cannabis part of new seasonal push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://nativerootscannabis.com/" target="_blank">Native Roots</a> is releasing its pumpkin spice marijuana vape pen cartridges this week, and expects them to go as fast as drive-through lattes based on booming sales in the prior two years.

Illustration of a marijuana leaf shown in the negative space of many leaves.

Colorado brewers win big at GABF competition

Colorado brewers took home 40 medals at this year's Great American Beer Festival competition.

Food and Drink

Colorado brewers dominated this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Great American Beer Festival competition" data-vars-click-url="https://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/the-competition/2023-winners/" data-vars-content-id="cccc8d35-705d-4976-a44b-eef8da93702d" data-vars-headline="Colorado brewers win big at GABF competition" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/the-competition/2023-winners/" target="_blank">Great American Beer Festival competition</a>, taking home a stunning 40 medals, including 14 golds.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GABF" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/17/gabf-denver-beer-week-2023" data-vars-content-id="cccc8d35-705d-4976-a44b-eef8da93702d" data-vars-headline="Colorado brewers win big at GABF competition" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/17/gabf-denver-beer-week-2023" target="_self">GABF</a> is the most prestigious U.S. beer contest, and the medal haul is the largest in recent memory.

Wibby Brewing staff hold a University of Colorado flag as they accept their Great American Beer Festival trophy on Saturday in Denver. Photo: John Frank/Axios

Expect more apartments across Denver

Around 12,580 apartments are expected to be completed in 2023.

Real Estate

Roughly 12,580 new apartment units are expected to be completed across Denver this year, up from 10,873 in 2020, according to a new report.Why it matters: A<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" housing shortage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/20/housing-shortage-prices-high" data-vars-content-id="3141f563-91cf-49a7-ae46-36fe79ce956a" data-vars-headline="Expect more apartments across Denver" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/20/housing-shortage-prices-high" target="_self"> housing shortage</a> in the U.S. has contributed to the rising cost of both renting and buying.

How many people are working remotely in Denver and Boulder

Remote work continues to define the Colorado workforce, even as more employers ask workers to return to the office.

Business

Remote work continues to define the Colorado workforce, even as more employers ask workers to return to the office.Driving the news: 24% of Denver metro area workers were working from home as of 2022, compared to 28% in 2021, per newly released census figures.

Denver's food hall craze may be waning

Many food halls are still struggling to capture the crowds they did before COVID.

Denver&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="once-flourishing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denverpost.com/2019/10/09/junction-food-hall-denver/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw06-oBhC6ARIsAGuzdw17opZz9jBAkCrJ0OqKV1vAo0HDZ8swdu6IxJypXEOIiCxnHbICTh4aAtWEEALw_wcB" data-vars-content-id="cd7633b6-de03-4b81-9b95-e1688ace00eb" data-vars-headline="Denver&#x27;s food hall craze may be waning" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denverpost.com/2019/10/09/junction-food-hall-denver/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw06-oBhC6ARIsAGuzdw17opZz9jBAkCrJ0OqKV1vAo0HDZ8swdu6IxJypXEOIiCxnHbICTh4aAtWEEALw_wcB" target="_blank">once-flourishing</a> food hall scene appears to be fading.Why it matters: Apart from being hangout hubs, food halls act as &quot;amazing incubator models&quot; for up-and-coming chefs and offer new opportunities for budding business owners, Denise Mickelsen with the Colorado Restaurant Association tells Axios.

Colorado's fastest-growing companies in 2023, according to Inc. 5000 list

The prestigious Inc. 5000 list named  133 Colorado companies — most of which are based in metro Denver.

The Denver metro is home to more than 100 of the fastest-growing private companies in the country, according to the recently released <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2023 Inc. 5000 list" data-vars-click-url="https://www.inc.com/inc5000/2023" data-vars-content-id="8338c4c8-5356-4eea-9f99-29091567d0bb" data-vars-headline="Colorado&#x27;s fastest-growing companies in 2023, according to Inc. 5000 list" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.inc.com/inc5000/2023" target="_blank">2023 Inc. 5000 list</a>.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Crusoe Energy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.crusoeenergy.com/" data-vars-content-id="8338c4c8-5356-4eea-9f99-29091567d0bb" data-vars-headline="Colorado&#x27;s fastest-growing companies in 2023, according to Inc. 5000 list" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.crusoeenergy.com/" target="_blank">Crusoe Energy</a> was the top Colorado company, coming in at 49th. The Denver-based business specializes in using leftover natural gas to power cryptocurrency mining and cloud computing.

Illustration of an open briefcase with an upwards trending line popping out.  

Deionomics: Coach Prime is big business in Colorado

In igniting Colorado's football program, Sanders has become an economic force.

Sports

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Deion Sanders" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/18/deion-sanders-colorado-buffaloes-football" data-vars-content-id="4c602937-3577-440f-98ce-158fd550ecab" data-vars-headline="Deionomics: Coach Prime is big business in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/18/deion-sanders-colorado-buffaloes-football" target="_self">Deion Sanders</a> has led the Colorado Buffaloes to an early 3-0 record in his first year in Boulder, making them the buzz of college football. He&#x27;s also sparked his own economic engine — directly and indirectly — around <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="apparel," data-vars-click-url="https://shop.cubuffs.com/colorado-buffaloes/coach-prime/t-12608119+c-9058645576+z-92-2711518198" data-vars-content-id="4c602937-3577-440f-98ce-158fd550ecab" data-vars-headline="Deionomics: Coach Prime is big business in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://shop.cubuffs.com/colorado-buffaloes/coach-prime/t-12608119+c-9058645576+z-92-2711518198" target="_blank">apparel,</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tickets," data-vars-click-url="https://frontofficesports.com/deion-sanders-impact-makes-tickets-pricier-than-nfl-games/" data-vars-content-id="4c602937-3577-440f-98ce-158fd550ecab" data-vars-headline="Deionomics: Coach Prime is big business in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://frontofficesports.com/deion-sanders-impact-makes-tickets-pricier-than-nfl-games/" target="_blank">tickets,</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="betting" data-vars-click-url="https://ftw.usatoday.com/2023/09/colorado-buffaloes-colorado-state-public-betting-outpaces-nfl" data-vars-content-id="4c602937-3577-440f-98ce-158fd550ecab" data-vars-headline="Deionomics: Coach Prime is big business in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ftw.usatoday.com/2023/09/colorado-buffaloes-colorado-state-public-betting-outpaces-nfl" target="_blank">betting</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="TV ratings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.buffzone.com/2023/09/19/main-attraction-cu-buffs-draw-high-tv-ratings-announce-another-sellout/" data-vars-content-id="4c602937-3577-440f-98ce-158fd550ecab" data-vars-headline="Deionomics: Coach Prime is big business in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.buffzone.com/2023/09/19/main-attraction-cu-buffs-draw-high-tv-ratings-announce-another-sellout/" target="_blank">TV ratings</a> and more.The big picture: Sanders — aka &quot;Coach Prime,&quot; a derivative of Sanders&#x27; &quot;Prime Time&quot; nickname as an explosive NFL player — has never been shy about promoting his brand.

Photo illustration of an arrow rising out of Deion Sanders' sunglasses.

Empower Field gets high marks for walkability among NFL stadiums

The Broncos' home ranked 7th out of the NFL's 30 stadiums, according to data from WalkScore.

It&#x27;s pretty easy to walk to a Denver Broncos game, even if the 0-2 team is hard to watch at the moment.Driving the news: Empower Field at Mile High ranked 7th out of the NFL&#x27;s 30 stadiums, according to data from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Walk Score" data-vars-click-url="https://www.walkscore.com/about.shtml" data-vars-content-id="37f3d43d-5b03-44fc-812b-4ca62b19ac49" data-vars-headline="Empower Field gets high marks for walkability among NFL stadiums" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.walkscore.com/about.shtml" target="_blank">Walk Score</a>, a Redfin company that promotes walkable neighborhoods.

DIA gets $31 million for new lighting system to reduce close calls

The Federal Aviation Administration is looking closely at recent near-collisions at the nation's busiest airports.

Denver International Airport is adding a new lighting system to a key runway and taxiway to help reduce the potential for airplane collisions.Why it matters: The $31 million upgrade comes in response to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="heightened attention" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/02/15/faa-safety-memo-near-disasters" data-vars-content-id="5d50996a-51b3-4f8b-969e-3c5d82cee801" data-vars-headline="DIA gets $31 million for new lighting system to reduce close calls" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/02/15/faa-safety-memo-near-disasters" target="_self">heightened attention</a> at the Federal Aviation Administration to recent near-collisions at the nation&#x27;s busiest airports.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg visited Denver International Airport on Tuesday to see updated lights for airfield safety. Photo: RJ Sangosti/Denver Post via Getty Images

Denver's migrant and housing crises are colliding

A surge in new migrants is coinciding with an already troubling housing crisis, putting unprecedented strain on resources.

During his first months in office, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has been navigating two housing crises at once: the city&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing number of unhoused people" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/03/denver-homeless-deaths-mike-johnston-sweeps" data-vars-content-id="8dda9143-76be-4c5b-912f-cfaf2c4a8ed0" data-vars-headline="Denver&#x27;s migrant and housing crises are colliding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/03/denver-homeless-deaths-mike-johnston-sweeps" target="_self">growing number of unhoused people</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="thousands of newly arrived migrants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/23/denver-increase-migrant-arrivals-august" data-vars-content-id="8dda9143-76be-4c5b-912f-cfaf2c4a8ed0" data-vars-headline="Denver&#x27;s migrant and housing crises are colliding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/23/denver-increase-migrant-arrivals-august" target="_self">thousands of newly arrived migrants</a>.Why it matters: The city simply doesn&#x27;t have enough affordable homes, shelters or money to help everyone who needs it, straining scarce resources and leaving people out on the street.

Photo illustration of a collage of key shapes, a family of four holding hands and abstract textures.

Denver plans to invest $2 million to build more pickleball courts

Pickleball's surge in popularity is pushing Denver's parks and recreation department to take action.

Pickleball&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="surge in popularity" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/13/denver-pickleball-court-closures-openings" data-vars-content-id="47fd8d5a-f7fa-4493-bd62-224496d7d85b" data-vars-headline="Denver plans to invest $2 million to build more pickleball courts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/13/denver-pickleball-court-closures-openings" target="_self">surge in popularity</a> is pushing Denver&#x27;s parks and rec department to take action.Driving the news: Department leaders want to use $2 million from the mayor&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="proposed 2024 budget" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/14/mayor-mike-johnston-first-budget-2024" data-vars-content-id="47fd8d5a-f7fa-4493-bd62-224496d7d85b" data-vars-headline="Denver plans to invest $2 million to build more pickleball courts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/14/mayor-mike-johnston-first-budget-2024" target="_self">proposed 2024 budget</a> to build new pickleball courts across the city.

How college tuition in Denver compares to the U.S.

The latest numbers show college costs have not spiked in real terms.

The cost of going to college has increased faster than inflation for years.Yes, but: The latest numbers show college costs have not spiked in real terms. For private four-year colleges, they&#x27;ve actually been falling.

Estimated annual tuition and fees among four-year colleges; 2021-22 school year

Nominations now open for Axios Denver Power Players

Submit a nomination for yourself or a local business leader doing good.

We all have memories of the local businesses that shaped our upbringing, whether a shop we often visited with our parents, a dealership where we purchased our first car or the company whose name was emblazoned on our little league jerseys. <ul><li>But those businesses wouldn&#x27;t have left such impressions or had such lingering impact if they weren&#x27;t powered by true community leaders.</li></ul>What&#x27;s happening: We know that at Axios, and that&#x27;s why we&#x27;re celebrating the biggest names, established leaders and rising stars in our business community in the second annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Denver Power Players" data-vars-click-url="https://powerplayers.axios.com/denver-nomination?utm_source=axios&amp;utm_medium=site&amp;utm_campaign=pp-edit-site-2022" data-vars-content-id="ec9baf20-f47f-412f-bb2a-d588fd7d22e7" data-vars-headline="Nominations now open for Axios Denver Power Players" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://powerplayers.axios.com/denver-nomination?utm_source=axios&amp;utm_medium=site&amp;utm_campaign=pp-edit-site-2022" target="_blank">Axios Denver Power Players</a> list.

Despite recent violent spree, Denver's crime rates are falling

While police chief Ron Thomas called the incidents concerning, he tells us overall violent crime rates in the city are trending downward.

Eleven people in Denver have been shot in violent incidents since last Saturday.Catch up quick: The latest incident happened overnight heading into Thursday in the City Park West neighborhood. Two people were shot, one fatally, near 16th Avenue and Downing Street, according to police.

5 takeaways about Colorado's economy right now

Economic risks loom in the distance and warnings are emerging that could pinch the state's financial picture.

Colorado&#x27;s economy is expected to grow 2% this year — a more optimistic outlook for gross domestic product than expected because of robust consumer demand, economists told state lawmakers Wednesday.Yes, but: Economic risks loom in the distance and warnings are emerging that could pinch the state&#x27;s financial picture.

Denver community protests police shooting of Brandon Cole

Denver police's fatal shooting last month of an unarmed Black man is sparking calls for change.

Denver police&#x27;s fatal shooting last month of Brandon Cole, a 36-year-old unarmed Black man, is sparking calls for change.Why it matters: The shooting has further heightened tensions between police and the local community as the first trial in the death of Elijah McClain is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expected to start this week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cpr.org/2023/09/18/elijah-mcclain-trial-death-jury-selection/" data-vars-content-id="4c8a1f4f-dc19-4f2d-81fa-72b4d294ce19" data-vars-headline="Denver community protests police shooting of Brandon Cole" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cpr.org/2023/09/18/elijah-mcclain-trial-death-jury-selection/" target="_blank">expected to start this week</a>.

Photo illustration of a Denver Police cruiser with lines radiating from it.

Why robots won't replace restaurant servers anytime soon

Panelists at Denver Startup Week largely agreed AI won't replace restaurant and food staff, but instead complement their services.

The task seemed simple: Guide someone at Chili&#x27;s to the right table. But the robot got lost.Driving the news: Peter Newlin, co-founder of the fast-food chicken restaurant <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Birdcall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wHgxH7ug6g" data-vars-content-id="4937225d-6daf-43be-8307-a0b9e9ccd82b" data-vars-headline="Why robots won&#x27;t replace restaurant servers anytime soon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wHgxH7ug6g" target="_blank">Birdcall</a>, recalled the moment during a panel discussion Tuesday at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Denver Startup Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/15/denver-startup-week-spotlight-ai" data-vars-content-id="4937225d-6daf-43be-8307-a0b9e9ccd82b" data-vars-headline="Why robots won&#x27;t replace restaurant servers anytime soon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/15/denver-startup-week-spotlight-ai" target="_self">Denver Startup Week</a> about AI&#x27;s impact in the food and restaurant industry.

Illustration of a robotic hand dipping a chicken nugget in sauce.

Denver mass shooting is the 500th nationwide this year

Just five years ago, the country had never experienced 500 mass shootings in one year.

A downtown Denver shooting that wounded five people Saturday night marked the country&#x27;s 500th mass shooting in 2023, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to the Gun Violence Archive" data-vars-click-url="https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/" data-vars-content-id="f0d4972b-08b1-418f-9aac-be61fe1a3082" data-vars-headline="Denver mass shooting is the 500th nationwide this year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/" target="_blank">according to the Gun Violence Archive</a>.Yes, and: The 501st came hours later when one person died and five others were wounded early Sunday in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="El Paso," data-vars-click-url="https://www.ktsm.com/news/el-paso-police-investigating-shooting-in-far-east-el-paso/" data-vars-content-id="f0d4972b-08b1-418f-9aac-be61fe1a3082" data-vars-headline="Denver mass shooting is the 500th nationwide this year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ktsm.com/news/el-paso-police-investigating-shooting-in-far-east-el-paso/" target="_blank">El Paso,</a> Texas.

5 tips on how to interpret and understand street art

"You have to think of it as a voice for the voiceless."

Denver street art and graffiti have become such a draw that you can take a guided tour.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Denver Graffiti Tour" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denvergraffititour.com/about-the-tour" data-vars-content-id="b603683b-f8ac-4b1a-b9c0-32953b1622d5" data-vars-headline="5 tips on how to interpret and understand street art" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denvergraffititour.com/about-the-tour" target="_blank">Denver Graffiti Tour</a> began in 2018 and offers guided 2-hour walks covering 20 blocks in the RiNo Art District most weekends.

Denver weekend events: High Plains Comedy, RiNo mural festival and more

LOL at the High Plains Comedy Fest and visit RiNo for an international mural festival.

This weekend in Denver: attend a comedy show or three at the High Plains Comedy Festival, check out a classic silent film or watch artists paint murals in RiNo.

Overlanding and van-life adventures rising in popularity among women

The recent Mountain West Overland Expo in Colorado dedicated an entire track to women in the community.

Twenty women sat in a half circle, introducing themselves by name — and the make and model of their trucks.What&#x27;s happening: For the first time, the recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mountain West Overland Expo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.overlandexpo.com/mtn-west/" data-vars-content-id="2191b531-6444-4451-bd51-55c9a3ad8c3c" data-vars-headline="Overlanding and van-life adventures rising in popularity among women" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.overlandexpo.com/mtn-west/" target="_blank">Mountain West Overland Expo</a> in Colorado dedicated an entire track of seminars and speakers for women who want to travel off-grid.

What's new for Denver Beer Week and GABF in 2023

Denver is America's beer capital this week.

Denver is America&#x27;s beer capital this week.What&#x27;s happening: The arrival of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Great American Beer Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/" data-vars-content-id="747b1ee9-4c9b-42a4-8278-3502bc7c194e" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new for Denver Beer Week and GABF in 2023" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/" target="_blank">Great American Beer Festival</a> this week coincides with the city&#x27;s long-running <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Oktoberfest celebration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/14/denver-oktoberfest-events" data-vars-content-id="747b1ee9-4c9b-42a4-8278-3502bc7c194e" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new for Denver Beer Week and GABF in 2023" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/14/denver-oktoberfest-events" target="_self">Oktoberfest celebration</a> and combines to make the 14th annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Denver Beer Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denver.org/denver-beer-week/" data-vars-content-id="747b1ee9-4c9b-42a4-8278-3502bc7c194e" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new for Denver Beer Week and GABF in 2023" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denver.org/denver-beer-week/" target="_blank">Denver Beer Week</a> one of the beeriest.

GABF events: Where to find the best beer during Denver Beer Week

Here's where to find the nation's top breweries and special sips that don't pour often in Denver.

The secret about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Denver Beer Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denver.org/denver-beer-week/" data-vars-content-id="a1aa5a6c-c924-47ac-ba78-f3615e9c0745" data-vars-headline="GABF events: Where to find the best beer during Denver Beer Week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denver.org/denver-beer-week/" target="_blank">Denver Beer Week</a>: Some of the best beer is poured on the sidelines of the festival, so you don&#x27;t need a ticket to partake.Where to go: Here are our top picks for where to find the nation&#x27;s top breweries and special sips that don&#x27;t pour often in Denver.<ul><li>Of note: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="What&#x27;s new at GABF" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/17/gabf-denver-beer-week-2023" data-vars-content-id="a1aa5a6c-c924-47ac-ba78-f3615e9c0745" data-vars-headline="GABF events: Where to find the best beer during Denver Beer Week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/17/gabf-denver-beer-week-2023" target="_self">What&#x27;s new at GABF</a> ... <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the best breweries at the festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/17/gabf-guide-best-beer-breweries-2023-festival" data-vars-content-id="a1aa5a6c-c924-47ac-ba78-f3615e9c0745" data-vars-headline="GABF events: Where to find the best beer during Denver Beer Week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/17/gabf-guide-best-beer-breweries-2023-festival" target="_self">the best breweries at the festival</a>.</li></ul>

What to do in Denver for Oktoberfest

Denver Oktoberfest will take place over two weekends in the Ballpark District.

Oktoberfest begins in Munich this Saturday, so we&#x27;ve compiled a list of German celebrations in the Denver area.

Inside Mayor Mike Johnston's first budget

This is Johnston's first budget as mayor and serves as a test to whether he is fulfilling the lofty campaign promises he made earlier this year.

Politics

Mayor Mike Johnston unveiled a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$4 billion budget" data-vars-click-url="https://www.denvergov.org/files/assets/public/v/1/finance/documents/budget/2024/final-september-2024-budget_9.14.23.pdf" data-vars-content-id="051c30b8-41df-4411-a5a7-ccd007d13c8a" data-vars-headline="Inside Mayor Mike Johnston&#x27;s first budget" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.denvergov.org/files/assets/public/v/1/finance/documents/budget/2024/final-september-2024-budget_9.14.23.pdf" target="_blank">$4 billion budget</a> Thursday that includes millions to curb homelessness, build affordable homes, revive downtown, improve public safety and reduce pollution.Why it matters: This is Johnston&#x27;s first budget as mayor, and serves as a test of whether he is fulfilling the lofty <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="campaign promises" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/07/18/five-takeaways-denver-mayor-mike-johnston-inaugural-address" data-vars-content-id="051c30b8-41df-4411-a5a7-ccd007d13c8a" data-vars-headline="Inside Mayor Mike Johnston&#x27;s first budget" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/07/18/five-takeaways-denver-mayor-mike-johnston-inaugural-address" target="_self">campaign promises</a> he made earlier this year.

Illustration of a small dollar sign magnified by a monocle.

How much Proposition HH will lower Colorado property taxes

The question on this November's ballot asks Colorado voters to make a high-stakes tradeoff.

The Proposition HH <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="question" data-vars-click-url="https://www.coloradosos.gov/pubs/elections/Initiatives/ballot/contacts/2023.html#gsc.tab=0" data-vars-content-id="1a856b42-8fbf-4c42-8079-1cedb9711849" data-vars-headline="How much Proposition HH will lower Colorado property taxes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.coloradosos.gov/pubs/elections/Initiatives/ballot/contacts/2023.html#gsc.tab=0" target="_blank">question</a> on this November&#x27;s ballot asks Colorado voters to make a high-stakes tradeoff.<ul><li>The state will lower property tax rates for 10 years — if you <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="give back" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/05/01/colorado-property-tax-tabor-proposition-hh" data-vars-content-id="1a856b42-8fbf-4c42-8079-1cedb9711849" data-vars-headline="How much Proposition HH will lower Colorado property taxes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/05/01/colorado-property-tax-tabor-proposition-hh" target="_self">give back</a> part of your expected refund under the Taxpayer&#x27;s Bill of Rights.</li></ul>

A range plot showing the low and high estimates of total average property tax savings from Prop. HH from 2023 2024.

How much Prop. HH will cut TABOR refunds in Colorado

One word is missing from the Prop. HH ballot language: TABOR.

One word is missing from the Prop. HH ballot language: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="TABOR" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/05/01/colorado-property-tax-tabor-proposition-hh" data-vars-content-id="faa08a7f-d612-491f-94fc-bf7ba0747c9c" data-vars-headline="How much Prop. HH will cut TABOR refunds in Colorado" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/05/01/colorado-property-tax-tabor-proposition-hh" target="_self">TABOR</a>.Yes, but: It&#x27;s a huge factor in the debate.What to know: TABOR refunds will increase beyond current levels for 60% of taxpayers in tax year 2023 if the ballot measure passes.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston names his first cabinet members

Phil Washington was named to continue serving as CEO of Denver's airport, and Anne-Marie Braga was selected to be the next head of human services.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston&#x27;s cabinet is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="finally starting to take shape" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/01/denver-mayor-mike-johnston-cabinet-key-roles" data-vars-content-id="3d35f0aa-a735-4a09-9e9b-732a922aa83d" data-vars-headline="Denver Mayor Mike Johnston names his first cabinet members" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/08/01/denver-mayor-mike-johnston-cabinet-key-roles" target="_self">finally starting to take shape</a>.Driving the news: On Wednesday, Johnston unveiled his first two nominations for key positions in his administration.

Colorado business leaders feel pessimistic about economy

Colorado's escalating cost of living and increasing regulatory burden on business is souring the economic mood.

Colorado&#x27;s escalating cost of living and increasing regulatory burden on business is souring the economic mood.Driving the news: 60% of business leaders say the state&#x27;s economy is on the wrong track compared to the national picture, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new survey" data-vars-click-url="https://cochamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-Business-Survey.pdf" data-vars-content-id="9587d036-f01d-407b-89bf-9bf65846c38b" data-vars-headline="Colorado business leaders feel pessimistic about economy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://cochamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-Business-Survey.pdf" target="_blank">a new survey</a> conducted by research firm CHS &amp; Associates on behalf of the Colorado Chamber of Commerce.

Denver voters support returning police officers to schools, poll shows

Only a slim majority of Denver voters, 51%, believe the city's public schools are safe for students.

Only a slim majority of Denver voters, 51%, believe the city&#x27;s public schools are safe for students, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new poll" data-vars-click-url="https://www.copollinginstitute.org/research/dps-august-2023" data-vars-content-id="ccfbdf58-935d-4202-9ca3-dc7a21c299c9" data-vars-headline="Denver voters support returning police officers to schools, poll shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.copollinginstitute.org/research/dps-august-2023" target="_blank">a new poll</a> finds.<ul><li>And nearly two-thirds support putting police officers back into schools after a series of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high-profile shootings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/03/22/parents-families-frustrated-after-denver-east-high-school-shooting" data-vars-content-id="ccfbdf58-935d-4202-9ca3-dc7a21c299c9" data-vars-headline="Denver voters support returning police officers to schools, poll shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/03/22/parents-families-frustrated-after-denver-east-high-school-shooting" target="_self">high-profile shootings</a> in prior school year.</li></ul>

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