1. CU Buffs versus Nebraska, Oct 25, 1986

In a match-up against No.3 Nebraska, CU Buffs dramatically ended a 17-year losing streak with a 20-10 victory. This incredible win marked the beginning of the Buffs’ golden era which saw them clinch the national championship four years later.

2. The Arrival of the Final Four, Mar 31, 1990

1990 saw Denver house the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament for the first time. This unforgettable tournament featured Larry Johnson and Tark the Shark’s Runnin’ Rebs from Las Vegas, who eventually defeated Duke for the championship in the McNichols Sports Arena.

3. Nuggets versus Sonics, May 7, 1994

Completed by Robert Pack and Brian Williams’ exceptional performances, the Nuggets’ victory against Sonics in the opening round of the NBA playoffs is considered one of the most thrilling comebacks in NBA history.

4. Peaks and Plains of CU Buff’s and Kansas State’s Rivalry, Nov 18, 1995

Kansas State’s competitive rivalry with the CU Buffs was sparked in this nail-biting close confrontation, with the Buffs emerging victorious 27-17 in the Cotton Bowl.

5. Broncos versus Packers, Super Bowl, Jan 25, 1998

The Broncos etched history by bagging their first-ever Super Bowl victory beating the Packers 31-24. Broncos’ first winning moment in the Super Bowl remains one of the most cherished in Denver sports history.

6. Avalanche’s Triumph in Stanley Cup Final, June 9, 2001

In a thrilling performance by the Avalanche against the Devils, Colorado witnessed the historic moment of Ray Bourque lifting the Stanley Cup over his head, marking a win for Avalanche in game 7 of the 2001 Stanley Cup Finals.

7. Oklahoma State versus Oklahoma, Dec 6, 2014

This game saw one of the rarest occasions of a walk-off victory in football history when OSU, behind true freshman quarterback Mason Rudolph, overcame a seven-point deficit and secured a victory against Oklahoma.

8. Nuggets and the Historic NBA Playoffs, May 3, 2019

The game holds the honor of being only the second four-overtime playoff in the NBA history. It was Nuggets’ all-pro edge rusher Von Miller whose 2.5 incredible sacks led Denver to a glorious victory.

9. CU Buffs versus Nebraska, Sep 7, 2019

A memorable game that witnessed CU Buffs turning a 17-0 deficit into a 34-31 victory marks one of the greatest moments in Denver’s sports history.

We have a storied history in Denver, showcasing our relentless spirit, incredible comebacks, and epic wins. Here’s to many more unforgettable moments in Denver sports!

The post Denver’s Greatest Sports Moments appeared first on DenverColorado.org.

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a developing metropolis in the U.S. known for its bustling city life underscoring the grandeur of Rocky Mountains. Let’s compare the city’s expanse to that of the Gaza Strip, a densely populated region on the far eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

Population Density of Denver vs Gaza

The Gaza Strip, with an estimated population of more than 2.2 million, is one of the most densely populated regions worldwide. The population density reaches an approximate 15,600 people for every square mile in the territory. Given these figures, its total area measures just 141 square miles.

In comparison, Denver has a considerably lesser population density. With the city’s population estimated at around 735,000 inhabitants spread over an area of about 155 square miles, the calculated approximate would stand at around 4,741 people for every square mile.

Imagine jamming everyone in the Denver metro area, and Colorado Springs, into an area the size of the I-25 corridor! It’d be terrible.  It’s fair to say that most people that live in Denver consider it to be too dense as is.

Interestingly, if we were to compare the Gaza Strip’s spatial expansion to Denver’s, we would realize that the Strip would roughly stretch from the southwestern outskirts of nearby city Lakewood up to the northeastern satellite town of Henderson.

Contemplating these comparative figures gives us a striking perspective on the realities of population density and urban planning around the world. Issues like living conditions, availability of resources, and civil infrastructure are starkly different, with their challenges varying greatly between locations.

In summary, while Denver is fortunate to boast spacious suburban areas and a comparatively spread-out population, regions like Gaza face significantly more complex dilemmas due to their intense population concentration. Such disparities highlight the vast range of urban realities worldwide, underlining the necessity for tailoring city planning and development to the unique circumstances of each location.

Further, this marked difference in density also influences socio-political circumstances and human experiences in both regions—another point of contemplation for those interested in understanding the intricate relationship between cities and their inhabitants.

Therefore, in comparing Denver and the Gaza Strip, we become better equipped to appreciate the variability of urban experiences and the variety of challenges different cities worldwide face.

The post Gaza Strip’s Size Compared to Denver appeared first on DenverColorado.org.

If you’re a Colorado resident, you’re likely well-acquainted with the term El Niño. As our Denver community bids farewell to La Niña, a weather pattern characterized by cooler than normal equatorial Pacific Ocean temperatures, El Niño steps onto center stage. You might remember El Niño as the ‘fair-weather friend’ with a warmer touch, potentially leading to snowier – or even rainier – winters, particularly enhancing Colorado’s southern mountain regions.

El Niño Marks its Arrival

This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the onset of El Niño conditions in early June. While its impacts are felt across the globe, the Denver community need not worry urgently. El Niño traditionally influences Colorado weather only from September through February, creating wet and dry patterns typical of usual summers.

Come fall, Denver residents can anticipate wetter than usual conditions extending into early February, followed by a slight reduction in statewide precipitation.

A Swift Transition: From La Niña to El Niño

Though on ground level, the climate transition might seem abrupt, NOAA meteorologists assure the shift was gradual, influenced by various meteorological events, such as the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO). Unlike the radical weather flip we experienced an year ago going from a frigid winter landscape to sunlit spring in no time, this change was more nuanced.

MJO, a prominent disturbance of rain, wind, and clouds crossing the globe every 40 to 60 days, has been considerably weakened by La Niña in past years. Lamenting over the 222 snowy days Denver missed in 2021? Blame it on the weak MJO. However, late 2022 marked a promising change, as MJO regained strength, gradually eroding La Niña and making way for El Niño.

El Niño and Monsoon Season: A Relationship?

While El Niño is known to affect weather patterns, its influence on Colorado’s monsoon season (July to September) is minimal. Even if we experience heavier rainfall in the coming months, El Niño wouldn’t be the only culprit. Remember, it’s the fall season that should brace itself for the extra snowfall predicted.

The Unforgettable La Niña Impact

Did La Niña leave a dramatic weather imprint? The answer is largely positive. According to NOAA meteorologists, the first two years under La Niña’s spell skewed towards dryness, with precipitation peaking at below-average levels, only to drop sharply during spring. This year, however, saw improved snowfall periods, indicated by western Colorado’s above-normal precipitation rates.

Denver’s El Niño Impact: A Preview

As we approach fall and winter, Denver should brace for El Niño’s imminent strengthening. Let’s prepare for a potentially white, and unusually wet holiday season – a welcome change given our lingering drought. On the bright side for ski enthusiasts, Denver’s ski resorts may be in for a treat this season, with the possibility of increased snowfall promising perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. This is one weather ‘guest’ who has our wholehearted permission to overstay if it likes.

The post What Coloradans Can Expect From the Strengthening El Niño appeared first on DenverColorado.org.

A woman was shot and killed after midnight on Sept. 6 near East 45th Avenue and North Washington Street. Three days later, a man was shot and killed after midnight near South Platte River Drive and West Florida Avenue.

According to a release, police believe a male suspect is involved and the deaths are connected. Both victims are believed to be homeless, however DPD said neither incident took place at or near an encampment.

The post Safety in Denver appeared first on DenverColorado.org.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, Denver’s impressive growth has brought not just economic prosperity but also some challenges. Among the most pressing issues is the rapid escalation of housing prices making it increasingly difficult for a significant portion of our workforce to access affordable housing options. Recognizing the magnitude of the problem, DenverColorado.org is committed to understanding the nature of Denver’s housing crisis and exploring possible solutions.

## Denver’s Housing Dynamics

As one of the top destinations in the country for in-migration, Denver’s population grew by over 68,000 people between 2010 and 2014, 62 percent of which was from in-migration according to the state demographer’s office. The impressive influx of new residents combined with Denver’s growing millennial population significantly increases demand for entry-level housing.

As demand has increased, rent prices and property values in Denver have soared. In 2014 alone, Denver’s rent spiked by 9.2% – the highest nationwide. The median home price now stands at $398,000, marking a 10.7% increase from previous years.

Creeping up to a median of $1,274 in the first quarter of 2016, the ever-increasing rental rates consign younger age groups to staying in the rental market. This restricts their ability to save for future home investments, leading to a tug in the market dynamics as demand for housing continues unabated.

## The Ongoing Affordable Housing Crisis

The continuous population growth combined with a staggering hike in prices has led to a severe shortage of affordable housing in Denver. This is particularly a critical issue for those making less than $20,000/year.

According to Housing Colorado, there is a deficit of over 100,000 homes priced at an affordable level for this demographic. Given the current rate of affordable rental housing construction of 823 homes per year, it would take over a century to eliminate this gap.

Further exacerbating the issue is the dwindling availability of affordable rental and for-sale housing resources. Federal funding sources for affordable housing, including HOME and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs have been cut by 59 percent and 49 percent, respectively, since 2000.

High litigation risks and unfavourable construction defects laws have also hampered the development of medium to low-priced condominiums, which typically serve as an accessible buying option for first-time homebuyers.

## The Way Forward

To address this pressing issue, various sectors are taking proactive measures aimed at expanding affordable housing options. However, making a significant impact requires concerted efforts and coordination among all sectors of our economy.

Addressing the housing crisis in Denver is a continuous and challenging journey. However, it’s a journey that DenverColorado.org is proud to be a part of, as we strive to foster a vibrant, diverse community where everyone can afford a place to call home. Let’s work together to ensure a prosperous, inclusive future for Denver.

The post Policy: Housing White Paper appeared first on DenverColorado.org.