The Merc Is Dead, Pharmacies Are Dying, but Cracker Barrel Will Live Forever

When the South Park guys bought Casa Bonita, their credo was simple: Change Nothing, Improve Everything. Now another iconic Denver institution is changing hands — this time The Mercury Cafe — and the new operators are promising the same. But they’re changing the name to The Pearl, so what else is in store for the 50-year-old bastion of alternative culture and community? Denverite neighborhoods reporter Paolo Zialcita joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to talk about what’s next . Plus, we discuss Paolo’s reporting on why so many local pharmacies are struggling and share our wins and fails of the week. Do you think Denver has a dog poop problem? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 You’re invited! Regular guest Joshua Emerson stars in a new short film premiering at The Holiday Theater on March 25, and Paul will be moderating a discussion afterwards with Joshua and the filmmaker, Gabriel Fermin. Tickets are cheap! Get yours today . Paul talked about Cracker Barrel , Meati , and this great episode of The Journal podcast on Walgreens. Olivia mentioned a sunglasses heist . Paolo talked about paid parking at Cherry Creek Mall. We also mentioned the reality TV show “Love is Blind” coming to Denver for its ninth season. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this March 14th episode: Arvada Center Visit Port Aransas 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise