Good morning, Denver.

At American Legion Post 178 in Lakewood, Denver7 honored everyday hero Ranya Kelly for 32 years of supporting veterans and military families through her nonprofit, The Redistribution Center (which has provided over $100 million in donations) during community dinners.

Denver's former Blake Street Tavern reopens as Tavern on Blake Street under the management of Jeff and Ashley Moerke, with plans to add a live entertainment venue on the lower level and move the arcade upstairs; the bar is set to open in the first week of June.

Legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform with the Colorado Symphony at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on Wednesday, June 3 and at Ford Amphitheater on Friday, June 5 as part of a summer concert series.

A ticket giveaway ends Monday, May 25 at 11:59 p.m. for a chance to win admission.

Colorado lawmakers avoided cutting core education funding in session and referred a November ballot measure (asking voters whether part of their tax refunds should fund schools and key services).

Several education bills were also approved, with many awaiting the governor’s signature.

An independent report found that former Cherry Creek Schools officials misused district funds for travel and vendor contracts; HR director Brenda Smith was terminated for cause while Superintendent Chris Smith resigned earlier.

Investigators found no evidence of improper gift acceptance (report dated May 12).

Generation Z in Colorado is seeking debt counseling as rising costs drive unsecured debt to record levels (about $34K on average).

Kaleb Knoll of Westminster cut his interest rates through nonprofit Money Management International and plans to pay off his balance by spring.

Douglas County health officials reported an adult died from a hantavirus infection likely linked to local rodent exposure, not to the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak, and they said the investigation is still ongoing + the public risk remains low.

Aimee Ward of Denver joined a clinical trial for CAR T cell treatment for systemic sclerosis in 2022 and now reports improved symptoms after weeks of treatment.

Dr. Richard Nash from HCA HealthONE Presbyterian St. Luke’s said the trial is advancing to Phase 3 and could lead to an FDA-approved therapy.

Fort Collins driver Scotty Milan will make his NASCAR ARCA debut at Colorado National Speedway in Dacono on Saturday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m. Local fans will cheer him on as he takes a big step in his racing career, plus his childhood around cars fuels his passion.