Saturday, May 2, 2026

Good Morning! On this day in 1982, an oil shale boom in Garfield County came to an abrupt end when Exxon, the area’s largest employer, shut down its operations. Thousands immediately lost their jobs, and other companies followed suit in the coming years. The date later became known as Black Sunday.

Welcome to the first Saturday edition of The Colorado Flyover! Beginning today, we’ll be delivering state news to your inbox seven days a week. Let us know what you think by replying to this email.

It’s been a wild week of news, and some of the biggest stories may have flown right under your radar. President Trump hinted that a major UFO file release is coming “in the near future,” engineers are using sound waves to extinguish wildfires, and Saudi investors are pulling the plug on LIV Golf. Tune into The Flyover Podcast as Amy Hess takes an in-depth look at some of the most interesting stories of the week. Tune in here!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner. If you haven’t started shopping, start here: our 2026 Gift Guide has thoughtful, practical, and indulgent picks for every kind of mom.

Today’s sponsor, FinanceBuzz, is sharing 19 smart expenses to cut when money gets tight—practical tips that could help you save more, reduce stress, and take control of your finances faster.

Take The Flyover with you. Busy day? Listen to our daily 15-minute podcast while commuting, cooking, or walking the dog—your Flyover fix, anywhere.

Colorado’s Summer Fire Risk Is High

Gov. Jared Polis joined state and federal firefighting officials to release the 2026 Wildfire Outlook and Preparedness Plan this week, warning of a “significantly increased risk” of fire across the state.

A dry winter, early spring warmup, and persistent drought have left Colorado’s vegetation primed to burn, with officials projecting up to 8,000 wildfires possible this year.

Experts suggest the vast majority of wildfires are human-caused, meaning Coloradans can directly reduce the risk. Officials are especially concerned about June and July, when fire conditions typically peak across the Front Range and mountain communities.

Polis declared May as Wildfire Awareness Month, urging residents to clear defensible space and make evacuation plans now.

Speed Cameras Eye Tighter Ticket Threshold

Colorado lawmakers are debating a bill that would let speed cameras ticket drivers for going just 6 mph over the limit, which is nearly half the current 10 mph threshold.

Senate Bill 26-152 is advancing at the Capitol, backed by safety advocates who say even small speed increases sharply raise crash risk.

Critics, though, say the lower bar turns a safety tool into a de facto tax on drivers, punishing people for speeds well within normal traffic flow.

The bill is still working its way through the legislature, and its fate could reshape camera enforcement statewide.

Film on the Rocks Lineup Announced

Denver Film just unveiled the 2026 Film on the Rocks lineup, as Colorado’s iconic outdoor movie tradition hits its 27th year.

The lineup includes a mix of classics and new hits, including Sinners, Jurassic Park, The Princess Bride, and Little Miss Sunshine, with Denver Film CEO Kevin Smith explaining, “This year’s lineup really leans into that mix of nostalgia and big-screen fun, and we can’t wait to kick things off!”

Each screening features live pre-show entertainment from a local artist or guest, all under the stars at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Tickets went on sale yesterday with quick sellouts expected.

Flying together with our sponsor

Money is tight, and with prices on the rise, deciding where to cut back can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life overnight to see a difference.

Here is how to start: Browse FinanceBuzz’s list of money-saving strategies below and choose just one or two to try today. Even a single small change can create the breathing room you need to breathe a little easier.

LEARN MORE

➤ Palisade: A spring freeze wiped out portions of Western Slope fruit crops, though Palisade’s famed peach orchards were mostly spared. (More)

➤ Summit County: New census data shows population declines across several Colorado resort counties as skyrocketing housing costs push out longtime locals, raising concerns about workforce shortages and community stability. (More)

➤ Denver: A proposal moving through the Colorado Capitol would let Denver bars serve alcohol until 4 a.m., extending the current 2 a.m. cutoff. (More)

➤ Statewide: A bill that would have carved exemptions into Colorado’s right-to-repair laws for IT equipment “intended to be used in critical infrastructure” was voted down 7–4 in a House committee, preserving existing consumer protections that manufacturers had sought to roll back. (More)

➤ Grand Junction: Colorado Mesa University and Grand Junction High School announced a partnership providing eight students $5,000 scholarships toward a CMU education, aimed at improving local college access. (More)

➤ Statewide: Motorcyclist fatalities are up sharply in 2026 as spring riding season ramps up. State safety officials are urging riders to wear proper gear and motorists to watch for motorcycles on busy roads. (More)

➤ The Colorado Rockies dropped their finale to Cincinnati 6-4 Thursday but still closed a solid 4-2 road trip. They opened a new series at home against Atlanta last night. (See Result)

➤ The Colorado Avalanche will face the Minnesota Wild in Round 2 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs next week, holding home-ice advantage throughout the series. (More)

➤ A Colorado sports betting reform bill passed the state Senate this week and now heads to the House. The measure would cap deposits at six per day, ban credit card funding for sportsbook accounts, and restrict advertising aimed at people under 21. (More)

➤ Former Broncos pass rusher Von Miller said he’d like a reunion with Denver next season to mentor the team’s current starters, however it’s unclear if the team is actually interested in signing him. (More)

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Sleep deeper and wake up refreshed with the Baloo Weighted Blanket, crafted from breathable cotton for year-round comfort. Its gentle, even pressure helps reduce stress and promote relaxation, like a calming hug all night long. Experience better sleep, improved mood, and natural comfort designed to help you truly unwind. (SHOP NOW)

Flying together with our sponsor

Your money is getting tight. Prices are going up. And figuring out what to cut back on can feel overwhelming. Here’s what you can do: Read FinanceBuzz’s list of money-saving strategies below, and start with one or two today. Even doing just one can help you breathe a little easier.

LEARN MORE

➤ The Cañon City Music & Blossom Festival is in full swing this weekend, bringing one of southern Colorado’s longest-running community celebrations back to life with live music and spring vibes. (More)

➤ Denver’s Cinco de Mayo festivities are starting early this year, with street parties, parades, and festivals rolling through the Mile High City ahead of May 5. (More)

➤ The Art Center of Western Colorado threw its biggest fundraiser of the year in Grand Junction last night, with live and silent auctions featuring local artwork. (More)

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Struggling with knee pain or instability? The Nü-Knee Brace delivers targeted compression and support to reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and help you move freely again. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable for all-day wear, it’s designed to keep you active—without bulky braces or limiting your mobility.