Colorado Matters

The general election ballot is mostly set with the moderate Republicans winning their races. Political analyst Eric Sondermann explains what to expect ahead of the general election. Then, election distrust hung over this election, but Matt Crane from the County Clerks Association explains why voting is safe in this state.

The abortion ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court has sent worrisome signals to Colorado's LGBTQ community. Then, three professors of color reflect on why they've chosen to leave the University of Denver's Graduate School of Professional Psychology. Plus, meet the keeper of the Stanley Cup.

Ron Hanks is currently a state representative from Fremont County. He faces Joe O'Dea in Tuesday's Republican primary. Chandra Thomas Whitfield asks Hanks about a range of topics including inflation, abortion access, gun control, and the January 6th insurrection. Later, the artistry and symbolic meaning behind one of the floats in Denver's Pride parade.

The Supreme Court has ended the federal right to abortion, but access remains legal in Colorado. Abortion opponent and columnist Krista Kafer hopes new restrictions here won't be far off. Then, Karen Middleton of abortion rights advocacy group Cobalt, wants to add reproductive freedom to the state constitution. Later, a discussion of abortion alternatives when there's an unintended pregnancy. Finally, Soul 2 Soul Sisters on how the ruling perpetuates what the group calls reproductive oppression.

Colorado businessman Joe O'Dea is a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate. He's in a primary race with state representative Ron Hanks. The winner will face the incumbent, Democrat Michael Bennet, in the general election. We ask about issues including inflation, abortion access, climate change, and gun control and crime. Then, a new book explores the history of curanderos. And soap box derby's young racers.

In "Tell Me Everything," former private investigator Erika Krouse writes about the landmark sexual assault case she was assigned to in Boulder. It expanded the scope of Title IX. We read her book for "Turn The Page with Colorado Matters." Then, why Denver model and activist Jasmine Colgan has developed "Tough Skin" as she gets comfortable in her own.

The primary election could determine the future of the Republican party in Colorado. Voters will choose between two very different types of candidates in key statewide races. Purplish assesses the GOP divide. Then, mountain towns are hiring for the summer. And exploring Colorado's history of booms and busts.

Spirituals are rooted in a history of pain and hope. Today, Colorado Matters presents a "Journey to Freedom" with the Spirituals Project Choir based at the University of Denver's Lamont School of Music. Our colleagues at CPR Classical spent the last year sharing spirituals chosen by the choir's director, M. Roger Holland II. The collaboration culminated in a special event at DU's Newman Center.

CU Regent and entrepreneur Heidi Ganahl believes her experience as a business owner, in addition to being the only Republican in statewide office, makes her the best candidate to run against incumbent Gov. Jared Polis. Then, Black Coloradans discuss what it means to recognize Juneteenth as a holiday.

Whether it's crime or the cost of living, Republican gubernatorial candidate Greg Lopez sees himself as a convener on issues like gun laws, housing and climate change. But, he's short on specifics. Lopez traces some of what ails the state to pandemic shutdowns, which he thinks destroyed livelihoods while trying to save lives. Lopez is running against CU regent Heidi Ganahl in the GOP Primary. Also, Juneteenth approaches and the origins of an Avs victory song.

Ten years ago today, President Obama created the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA. It allows young people brought to the US unlawfully as children to attend college or work legally. About 18,000 Coloradans have taken Obama up on that offer. We'll hear some of their stories today. We'll also talk with Marissa Molina, herself a DACA recipient, who advocates for immigration reform.

"El Ultimo Hilo" is an international choral collaboration between Colorado's Kantorei and singers in Guatemala, and both companies have learned lessons about music and history. Plus, finding energy efficiency without making homes even more expensive.

The first all-Black team of climbers reached the summit of Mt. Everest this spring. We speak with two of the Coloradans who were part of the expedition. Then, using genetic testing to improve medical treatments. And, rethinking housing in Greeley.

Sandy Phillips lost her daughter nearly ten years ago in the Aurora movie theater shootings. Now she and her husband travel the country, helping survivors of other mass shootings cope. Then, working to preserve the language of the Ute Mountain Utes. And, "Rainbows and Revolutions" at History Colorado.

The world first heard John Denver's "Rocky Mountain High" 50 years ago. It served as something of a musical magnet, attracting people to Colorado. Lawmakers here declared it the state's second official song in 2007. Today, we reflect on Denver's legacy -- musically and environmentally.

An ownership group led by Rob Walton is buying the Broncos, pending final approvals. We get perspective on the deal. Then, CPR's investigation into the Adams County Sheriff's Office. Also, answering a Colorado Wonders question about earthquakes.

Reflections from a cyclist who refused to dope. Scott Mercier, of Basalt, has a new book: "Win True: How You Win Matters On & Off The Bike." Then, Aidyn Reid from Colorado Springs competes in the national "Poetry Out Loud" competition. Plus, students say they're more than just test scores. And, as United expands its flight training center in Denver, pilots' mental health is also top of mind.

Republicans are divided ahead of the June 28 primary. Will unaffiliated voters tip the balance? Then, during the pandemic Julia Walker provided food for the needy. Now she helps parents find baby formula. Plus, In the San Luis Valley, Esteban Salazar forages for verdolaga – the Spanish word for purslane. And, Denver poet Nicky Beer's new work.

Emergency physician, Dr. Emmy Betz, wants parents to talk with their kids about guns and mental health to prevent suicide deaths. Then, a GAO report raises concerns over the decision to move Space Command from Colorado Springs. Plus, the prize money for the Colorado Women's Open will finally match that of the Men's Open. And, “Runner's High” explores how athletes use recreational cannabis.

Journalist Dave Cullen has examined school shootings and their aftermath in his books "Columbine" and "Parkland." Now, he's reporting on the misunderstood history of gun laws. Then, even when people experiencing homelessness get housing, it doesn't end tensions in the neighborhood. And, a school desegregation case in Colorado-- nearly lost to history.

Fertility treatments like IVF can cost tens of thousands of dollars. A new state law may help couples with some of that hardship, but there will still be challenges. Then, what Colorado's doing to improve behavioral health care. Also, the podcast, Wild Thing, examines nuclear energy in the age of climate change. And, remembering Dusty Saunders.

With the unofficial start of summer, we spend today's show outside. First, a trek that (almost) leads to Hanging Lake, where trail and bridge repairs are progressing. Plus, we meet the TikTok star known as @fatblackandgettinit at a park in Jefferson County. Then, how not to love the land to death. Also, byways over highways and 1-star national park reviews.

On this Memorial Day, we re-share stories of service and sacrifice, from the Honor Bell that tolls in remembrance of the servicemen and women who died defending the U.S. to a thought-provoking battle that reflects the often untold trauma of war.

Boulder historian Pete Chandler and his son Ty went on a mission to find the more than 2,000 Colorado veterans buried abroad during World War I and World War II. Then, a new documentary shares the stories of pilots whose mission was to disrupt supply lines during the Vietnam War. And, a Telluride singer-songwriter memorializes a cousin who was an Army Ranger.

Children's Hospital psychologist Jenna Glover has advice on talking to kids about mass shootings. Then, Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Mike Nelson predicts a hot, dry summer. And, a Denver jury's $14 million award to George Floyd protesters could change the playbook for demonstrators nationwide. Plus, as wildfires worsen, there's a firefighter shortage.

Two years ago today, George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer. His death sparked a racial reckoning across the U.S. and protests calling for police reform and accountability. In Denver, some of those protests turned violent, and a federal jury recently found police used excessive force against demonstrators. CPR'S race, diversity and equity reporter Elaine Tassy sat down with three people who were hurt.

White supremacist propaganda -- and incidents -- have been on the rise in Colorado. But this state is also a hotbed for research into hate groups -- and prevention. Then, the Mesa County district attorney disproves claims that the county's election hard drives contained evidence of possible fraud. Also, a sooner-than-expected floral update. And, the DACA Monologues continue.

Colorado's largest utility says it messed up when that cold snap hit last year, and natural gas prices skyrocketed. The company says it ought to have warned people. A top executive addresses that, renewables, and the future of a Pueblo coal-fired power plant. Then, Sportico reporter Eben Novy-WIlliams on the crucial contest to become the Denver Broncos' new owner.

A pair of Ukrainian-Americans in Boulder, Viktoria Oliynyk and Andriy Zakutayev, send much-needed supplies to Ukrainian soldiers via their aid group, Sunflower Seeds Ukraine. Then, abortion rights groups express dismay with pro-choice governor Jared Polis. And, the 50th anniversary of Durango's Iron Horse Bicycle Classic.

It's been decades since anyone's seen the roses bloom that were planted by Japanese-American prisoners at Colorado's Camp Amache. But that may soon change. Then, the fight to recertify a creek and what that means for clean water. Plus, a Denver food critic shares "50 Things to Bake Before You Die." Later, a big step to preserve Chicano murals in Colorado.

In Ryan Warner's regular interview with Colorado's governor, he asks Jared Polis about enshrining reproductive rights in the state constitution, the new penalties for fentanyl, and a range of other topics. Then, Denver's unauthorized urban camping ban was signed 10 years ago today. Plus, Colorado's unique contribution to electric cars.

COVID numbers are rising just as people let down their guards. We review the state modeling outlook and ask a pulmonologist how health care workers are holding up. Then, where will the U.S. Space Command land? State leaders step up the fight for it to remain in Colorado. And a DACA recipient's journey from despair to inspiration. Plus, Aladar the Alpaca!

The wildfires in New Mexico are burning through lands that are ancestral homes for some Coloradans. Then, the legislative session wrapped up with some new bills to address climate change. Plus, Colorado had the highest rate of bank robberies last year.

With lawmakers wrapping up their work for the year, we hear from our public affairs team about new Colorado laws. Then, a researcher's quest to find what triggers obesity. Plus, gardening expert Fatuma Emmad answers listener questions about planting flowers, veggies, and more in the age of climate change and drought.

Colorado may give millions of dollars to public transit agencies to make bus rides free to reduce pollution but there are questions about whether it will make a difference. Then, Cliff and Avery Moers of Evergreen share their real-life CODA story. Plus, a valedictory speech from 1943 that finds hope inside a World War II internment camp.

Colorado's a technical leader; Democratic Representatives Joe Neguse and Ed Perlmutter say Congress is in the position to ensure it stays that way. Then, Purplish examines efforts by state lawmakers to improve mental health care in Colorado.

Colorado Matters today is all about trying to buy a home. Prices have jumped astronomically this year and some buyers are using huge amounts of cash to compete. We'll talk about who can afford this market and what to do if you don't have the cash. Plus, why many Coloradans still want to buy, despite the mind-boggling prices.

It may be a leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft, but Coloradans are mobilizing as if Roe v. Wade is over. Then, our series 'On Pain' focuses on the frustration of fibromyalgia.

With the U.S. Supreme Court poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, what does it mean for abortion law in Colorado? Then, a special election in Glenwood Springs focuses on housing and growth. Plus, we revisit our conversation about empowering entrepreneurs as the "new builders" of the economy. And nominating which endangered historic places in Colorado should be saved.

What issues remain outstanding as the legislative session winds down? Then, Colorado has one of the highest rates of mental illness in the nation, but those who need help struggle for access. Plus DACA recipient Cristian Solano-Cordova explains what the program has meant to him.

Next year, Colorado families will get 10 hours of free preschool after Governor Jared Polis signed a bill into law earlier this week. But there are lots of details to work out. Then, to support the metaverse, the cable industry has to be fast. And, pianist and composer Mary D.

Cases of COVID-19 are rising but experts are more hopeful this time around. We get perspective from Dr. Anuj Mehta, a critical care physician at Denver Health Medical Center, about cases, vaccines for very young kids and masking. Then, a 19-year-old shares his challenges as a transgender man and his journey beyond drugs in CPR's podcast “Back from Broken.”

Todd Saliman, the sole finalist for the University of Colorado's presidency, answers questions about diversity, tuition, and funding. Plus, Governor Polis on the upcoming TABOR refund. Then, honoring Latino history through preservation. Also, what long-COVID might indicate about M.E., also known as Chronic Fatigue. And, pond skimming is back and making a splash!

The debate over banning flavored tobacco and nicotine products reveals divides over everything from taxes to racial justice. Purplish explores the issue with help from CPR health reporter John Daley. Then, a small theater company in Denver marks a milestone. Ryan meets some of the founding members of Buntport Theater on the set of their 50th original production.

The biggest landlord in the U.S.-- the federal government-- is making a big push for greener buildings. Then, in the face of climate change and water worries, can you still have an attractive -- yet eco-friendly-- yard? The answer, is yes. Plus, how climate change anxiety inspired Fort Collins musician Logan Farmer.

High fire danger escalates to "extreme" in parts of Colorado by Friday; dry conditions are to blame -- but so are fierce winds. Our regular conversation with Denver7 chief meteorologist Mike Nelson. Then, a Colorado Wonders question on earthquakes. Also, a Denver photographer in Ukraine. Plus, Kitchen Shelf recipes. And, DJ Cavem's eco-hip hop.

In our regular conversation with Colorado's Democratic governor Jared Polis, we discuss the deterioration of air quality on the Front Range, early childhood education and tougher punishments for fentanyl possession. Polis likened fentanyl to a poison. Then, the sounds wild animals make and why. Also, the best concerts you may have missed at Red Rocks.

Denver Post reporter Shelly Bradbury talks about her research into a group known as the Twelve Tribes in Boulder County. Then, a new idea to help with housing in Colorado. Plus, an old family photo inspires a Colorado Wonders question about a giant petrified tree trunk. Also, should a new fee on the price of gasoline be delayed? And, another Red Rocks regret about missing a U2 milestone.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Jason Crow on the military and refugee aspects of the Ukrainian crisis. He's just back from Poland. Also, a Ukrainian refugee family living in Colorado Springs copes with uncertainty. And, remembering former state Rep. Gloria Tanner. Then, a Colorado connection to Pixar's new movie, “Turning Red.” Plus, your Red Rocks regrets.

Former Douglas County Schools Superintendent Corey Wise explains the circumstances of his firing and his decision to sue the school district. Then American Rabbi Yisroel Silberstein escaped Ukraine at the start of the war and he will celebrate Passover in Denver. Plus, Bente Birkeland and Andy Kenney analyze the parties' state assemblies in Purplish and how they will shape the primary election.

In the latest edition of our series "On Pain," a veteran and his wife share their frustrating journey seeking relief. Then, families in Commerce City await a decision that'll determine the fate of their schools. Also, a new sculpture of Denver's first Black mayor, Wellington Webb, at the downtown municipal building that also bears his name.