The Week’s Top Stories (May 11, 2025)

Intro:
Welcome to this week’s edition of The Boulder Buzz, your Sunday night rundown of Boulder’s most talked-about moments. From wild wildlife sightings to major university milestones, here’s everything you need to know heading into a fresh week in the Rockies.

Record-Breaking Graduation at CU Boulder
CU Boulder celebrated its largest graduating class ever this weekend, awarding more than 10,000 degrees. Folsom Field was a sea of caps and cheers as keynote speaker and Olympian Emma Coburn inspired the Class of 2025. A special highlight? The presentation of the Chancellor’s Impact Award to 103-year-old CU superfan Peggy Coppom, a beloved local legend.

Cold Case Solved After 50 Years
After nearly five decades, the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office closed a 1975 murder case thanks to advanced forensic science. The breakthrough brought long-awaited closure to the family of John Patterson, marking a powerful moment of justice and community healing.

Moose and Calf Spotted in Eldorado Canyon
A rare and remarkable wildlife moment unfolded this week when hikers spotted a moose and her calf wandering through Eldorado Canyon State Park. While awe-inspiring, the sightings serve as a reminder: moose can be aggressive when protecting their young. Officials are urging caution and reminding visitors that timed-entry reservations are now required on weekends and holidays through October.

Green Ironmaking Takes Root in Boulder
Boulder startup Electra is making headlines with its plan to revolutionize the steel industry. The company secured $8 million in tax credits to fund a green ironmaking facility that could dramatically cut carbon emissions. It’s a bold move that places Boulder on the front lines of climate-forward innovation.

Budget Cuts Could Hit Boulder Science Centers
Proposed federal budget cuts to NOAA have sparked concern from Congressman Joe Neguse, who warned of potential damage to Boulder’s world-renowned scientific institutions. Facilities like NOAA and CIRES play a vital role in environmental research and disaster preparedness—and their future funding is now in question.

What’s Happening This Week in Boulder
• Boulder Startup Week (May 12–16): A celebration of local entrepreneurship with panels, pitch events, and community meetups.
• Colorado MahlerFest (May 14–18): Classical music lovers can enjoy concerts and talks honoring Gustav Mahler.
• Boulder Creek Festival (May 23–26): Coming soon—music, food, arts, and creekside fun. One of Boulder’s biggest events of the year.

Closing Thought:
Whether it was a mother moose and her calf making a surprise appearance or thousands of Buffs stepping into the next chapter of their lives, this week in Boulder was all about bold moves and big moments. Check back next Sunday for another roundup of everything buzzing in Boulder.

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