Colorado Matters

Democratic Congressman Ed Perlmutter talks about his decision not to run for re-election after eight terms. Then, assessing the start of the legislative session and the State of the State address. Also, a woman returns to her neighborhood after the Marshall Fire. El Taco Rey, a longtime Colorado Springs restaurant, is closing.

As cases of COVID-19 climb in Colorado, the omicron variant creates new unknowns in the effort to predict the path of the virus. Then, an update on the King Soopers strike and the bigger picture of organized labor. Also, the disparity in college rates among Hispanic men. And, preserving the Ute Mountain Ute language.

A Louisville couple returns to the ruins of the home they lost in the Marshall fire. And, a nonprofit helps fire victims. Then, CPR reporter Andrew Kenney on economic resets in the pandemic. Also, new state laws that took effect January 1. Plus, a Denver Rescue Mission program for people in recovery. Finally, a new school uses the community as a classroom.

Lawmakers return to the state capitol Wednesday. House Speaker Alec Garnett and House Minority Leader Hugh McKean share some of the priorities and challenges as they convene. Then, reality star Colton' Underwood's journey after coming out brings him to Colorado for support and connection. Plus, remembering Colorado abstract painter Clark Richert.

Missy Franklin is an Olympic gold medal swimmer, but that's not what defines her. She shares her journey through depression at the University of Colorado's Depression Center. Plus, how the center's helping train CU coaches to support athletes' mental health. Then, preserving former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir's Colorado legacy.

We get life-saving tips from Micki Trost, of Colorado's emergency management division. Then, the survival story of a cat name Merlin. Plus, pet sociologist Leslie Irvine on the toll the Marshall Fire took on critters. Plus, Judge Raymond Jones was an early Black judge, and now his Denver neighborhood is a historic landmark.

CPR's Jenny Brundin finds educators, kids, and families are between a rock and a viral hard place. Then, our D.C. correspondent Caitlyn Kim shares memories of last year's insurrection. Plus, Valèria Martinez Tenreiro wants to improve Latinos' access to mental health care. And, a new mixed-use development in Denver features a gardeny gash.

The Boven family returns to their block in Louisville for the first time since the Marshall Fire. Then, a woman who twice lost homes to fire offers perspective. And, efforts to get more shots in the arms of Colorado's Spanish-speakers. Also, a new book examines how COVID-19 fits into the state's boom and busts.

Congressman Joe Neguse details how the federal government is offering aid to those affected by the Marshall Fire. Then, Avista Adventist's CEO recounts his hospital's massive evacuation effort. Plus, back-to-school amid the omicron surge. And, former Denver mayor and U.S. cabinet secretary Federico Peña talks about his new biography.

The Marshall Fire in Boulder County displaced scores of families. The Bovens were among them. Then, assistant state climatologist Becky Bolinger explains the weather and climate that led to the fires. Plus, Dr. Justin Ross offers some on-air counseling. And, physicians in the state talk us through the omicron variant, the newest chapter of the pandemic.

2021 was challenging and music helped us through. In our final show of the year, Alisha Sweeney, local music director at Indie 102.3, shares some of her favorite Colorado tracks from '21. We remember a short-lived but influential music venue called The Family Dog. Plus, the team behind CPR's new music appreciation podcast.

As 2021 comes to a close, we're listening back to memorable interviews from the past year. Nhi Aronheim's story of fleeing post-war Vietnam as a child is one we won't forget. In "Soles of a Survivor," she writes about her trek through the jungle, her traumatic stay in a refugee camp, and her life in the United States.

In August and September, the masked and vaccinated Colorado Matters team set out on a two-week road trip. Stops included Rocky Ford, Colorado Springs, Fort Morgan, Grand Junction, Durango, and Alamosa. It was a chance to ask Coloradans "how ya doin'?" As 2021 winds down, we listen back to highlights from our time on the road again.

In a favorite from 2021, we listen back to a conversation with Colorado journalist-turned-novelist Peter Heller. Earlier this year, we chose his thriller "The Guide" for our reading circle "Turn The Page with Colorado Matters." The book is set at a posh mountain resort where something is clearly amiss.

Pinto beans are queens of the table in Southwest Colorado-- even inspiring a fudge recipe. Our colleague from KRCC, Andrea Chalfin, tries her hand at the recipe. Then, cookie recipes from a town that no longer exists. Plus, flavors from the first Thai restaurant in the US. And barbecue history from the Soul Food Scholar.

Masked and vaxxed, the Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza returns to the stage at the University of Denver's Newman Center to share music, memories, laughter and light.

Ten thousand people have died in Colorado because of COVID. Nate McWilliams of Denver was almost one of them. Then, concern about protecting the space between cities and untouched wilderness. Also, voting on a new rule limiting the greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks. Plus, finding the world's southernmost tree, and recovering a treasured bracelet.

A new space telescope will orbit the sun using a state-of-the-art optical system built by Colorado's Ball Aerospace. Plus, fighter pilot Nichole Ayers, of Divide, Colorado, joins the newest astronaut class. Then, the complexity of housing instability. Also, books by Colorado authors or with a Western theme to read or give as gifts.

We reflect on the life of Broncos' great Demaryius Thomas, on and off the field after his sudden death at the age of 33. Then, from redistricting to midterm elections to federal relief money, Purplish looks at what state lawmakers will face in the next legislative session in January. And, a new "flight plan" for Denver's landmark airport tower building.

A survival story today. Of a small business that has survived shutdowns, changing public health orders, and labor & supply shortages. Step into a day in the life of Zomo Asian + American Eatery in Englewood. From dawn ‘til dinner, it's a race to find ingredients, prepare them, and serve a hungry (and sometimes impatient) public.

With broad access to vaccines, Governor Jared Polis says the medical emergency is over. We ask Polis about masks, abortion access, wildfires, highway construction, and crime. Then, the new star-studded satire "Don't Look Up" is about a comet hurtling towards Earth, a metaphor for climate change. And a member of the Colorado Matters family is moving on.

Months after they fled Afghanistan, many refugees remain temporary housing on U.S. military bases. We talk with a Marine Corps reservist and a Colorado district attorney who's helping them. Then, a Navy Seal seen as a shining star falls from grace. And, a history professor's lifelong dream. Also, young people unite in the wake of shootings in Aurora.

The pandemic's meant challenges and opportunities in the workplace, especially for restaurants. That's where concepts like "ghost kitchens" come in. Then, the "new builders" are redefining entrepreneurship. And, Olympic hopeful Alex Hall and the Winter Games' newest sport, Freeski Big Air.

The holidays are all about giving and goodwill. But that can extend beyond people and pets -- we talk with sustainability experts about everything from gift wrapping to fashion. Then, how to take care of poinsettias. Also, a veteran sailor's memories of being at Pearl Harbor 80 years ago. And, an increasingly tight housing market in Pueblo.

Assistant state climatologist Becky Bollinger on why Colorado's so dry. Then, how the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on abortion might impact the state. And, remnants of an esoteric religion in Southern Colorado. Also, hidden secrets of the Ludlow Massacre. Plus, helping early learners catch up. Finally, “We Are Santa.”

Fifteen teenagers were shot in almost as many days in Aurora. Officials are struggling to identify a pattern. Then, an analysis of 1993's "Summer of Violence" shows the importance of context in crime reporting. Plus, remembering justice and poet Gregory Hobbs. Also one woman's journey through Alzheimer's. And Dolly Parton helps Colorado kids read.

What are monoclonal antibodies and how effective are they if someone catches COVID-19? Then, the "Youth Gun Violence and Suicide Prevention Wellness Weekend" is designed to help people, especially young Black men, cope with life's "triggers." Plus, remembering Colorado Music Hall of Fame drummer Jim Gallagher of the Astronauts.

Long-haul COVID offers an opportunity to learn more about chronic fatigue, a condition that's often dismissed. We'll hear from a doctor about how he navigated the illness. Then, a former drug user and federal prisoner in Pueblo who grew his family's small business. And, the story of Grammy-winning musician Marc Cohn and his near-death experience in Denver.

We talk with pulmonologist Anuj Mehta about the state's work to track the omicron variant, and to get grounding about the concern. Then, Colorado Sun reporter David Gilbert investigated sexual misconduct and abuse allegations at the Colorado Center for the Blind. Also, restoring the Air Force Academy chapel.

Rev. Paula Stone Williams, of Left Hand Church in Longmont, transitioned at age 60. The evangelical circles she'd dedicated her life to as a man rejected her as a trans woman. Williams' new book is “As A Woman: What I Learned about Power, Sex, and the Patriarchy After I Transitioned.” She joined us in July for “Turn The Page,” our regular reading circle.

At age 15, Curtis Brooks was sentenced to life without parole. He was granted clemency and released in 2019. He's adjusting to a new life, and recently got married. Then, the Women's Bean Project thrives as it trains women. Also, emotional growth in the pandemic. And, using social media influencers to draw students to college. Plus, Mexican dance in Pueblo.

A top stressor for patients with diseases such as cancer is paying for treatment. Colorado has a plan to help and experience in other states will pave the way. Then, a recent Russian missile test threatened the space station and may signal increased militarization of space.

Nhi Aronheim, of Englewood, has navigated between two families and two cultures, and from fear to gratitude. She shares her story in "Soles of a Survivor." Then, as Colorado Matters marks 20 years, we revisit one of our favorite segments, answering a Colorado Wonders question about the Front Range.

How has Colorado's Congressional delegation helped shape the president's Build Back Better Act? CPR public affairs reporter Andrew Kenney provides insight. Then, the comeback story of Rapids head coach Robin Fraser with a record-setting season. Plus, students find common ground with a virtual exchange. And remembering the legacy of the Brown Bombers.

Making everyday decisions during the pandemic can be like a case of whiplash -- and there are the moral considerations too. We get a daily risk assessment with two medical experts. Then, did you know there are actually different types of snowflakes?

As COVID drags on, we ask Coloradans how they're doing. One massage therapist describes how she loses work each time she's exposed to the virus. Then, our health reporter searches for why COVID cases are so high in Colorado. Plus, the high cost of airline tickets. And, a Grand Junction couple says singing's for everyone even though it may not feel like it.

The ongoing Rocky Mountain Women's Film Festival features the documentary "Youth v Gov," about a group of young people suing the U.S. government over climate change. Then, "Storm Lake" explores the challenges facing newspapers and the idea that "news deserts" are a threat to democracy. Plus, thousands of kids in Pueblo County get paid to read.

Democratic Rep. Ed Perlmutter on running for re-election, the Build Back Better plan, and helping Rocky Flats workers. Then, a shelter's financial struggles highlight housing instability challenges in the state. Also, a new program to help rescuers dealing with their own trauma. Plus, the "cliché killer." And Telluride singer/songwriter Emily Scott Robinson.

NPR investigative reporter Tim Mak talks about audio recordings he obtained of NRA leadership discussing their response and messaging after the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. Then, measuring water in Colorado. Plus, the documentary, "Running with my Girls." And banjo player Chris Pandolfi's new solo project.

The biggest wildfires in Colorado have cost lives and caused millions of dollars in damage, yet no one knows specifically how they started. CPR investigative reporter Ben Markus has a special report. Then, "Operation Veteran Strong" is helping veterans transition back to civilian life and focus on being well. Plus, sharing stories of World War II.

Denver Comedian Adam Cayton-Holland's new one-man show is called “Happy Place.” It's loosely based on his memoir, "Tragedy Plus Time,” which is both a tribute to his little sister Lydia and an account of his grief after she took her own life. He spoke with Ryan Warner in 2018. Cayton-Holland performs November 17 at the Comedy Fort in Fort Collins.

As world leaders debate how to handle climate change, we speak with a Colorado lawmaker in Glasgow about where state policies come into play. Then, a mother accused of human trafficking calls it racial profiling. And, an outlook for the flu season. Also, we go to a mobile home park for our series on housing insecurity plus a primer on Colorado names.

CPR News followed police recruits through training to find out what they learned and why they chose the job when the profession is under intense scrutiny. Then, what happens when real estate investors and mobile home residents face off. And, a Denver-based company is working to recycle space junk.

The pandemic continues to keep a tight grip on the supply chain. When it come to cars, inventory is low and prices are high. Then, the fight over renewables in one Colorado county. Plus, what's the best way to replant after a wildfire? Also, art at DIA. And we meet the new Pikes Peak poet laureate.

The Western Slope has been a hot spot for COVID-19. We check in with an infectious disease doctor in Grand Junction on the impact. Then, college students from Colorado are at the global climate conference in Scotland. And, in our regular talk with Gov. Jared Polis, we ask about the pandemic, the upcoming state budget and new reporting on his taxes.

Voters rejected all three statewide ballot measures in the election. Then, we answer a Colorado Wonders question about pronunciation. Also, housing insecurity through the eyes of an LGBTQ senior. Former Bronco Ryan Harris talks about the Von Miller trade and Miller's impact in Denver off the field. Finally, the Artnauts deploy to countries in conflict.

The state's taking new steps to fight COVID-19 as children as young as five are poised to get the vaccine. Plus, the pandemic's impact on mental health, food insecurity, and basic respect. Then, Colorado's new teacher of the year. And Colorado Mesa University's new mountain bike champion. Finally, the art of "Smoking Mirrors."

Former secretaries of state Madeleine Albright and Condoleezza Rice spoke recently about their mutual connection to the University of Denver and about American policy. Then, what to know about open enrollment on the Colorado health exchange. Plus, searching for the source of the water that fills the iconic Hanging Lake. And, music from The Mañanas.

On October 29, 1929, financial markets crashed and set off the Great Depression. In Colorado, and across the West, that segued into the Dust Bowl, which pummeled farms and livelihoods for a decade. Today we re-share the stories of five Coloradans who grew up during this defining time.

When you die, what do you want done with your body? A new law in Colorado allows a new option: human composting. Then, what happens when someone can afford the land, but not the house? Plus, Colorado Matters' 20th anniversary revisits a conversation with pastor Nadia Bolz-Weber. And a special Halloween treat, Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven."

Marty Lindsey, an actor from Colorado who's in the movie "Rust," reflects on the death of the film's cinematographer and on filming scenes with firearms. Then, the baker's dozen measures on Denver's ballot. Plus, Jewish horror stories just in time for Halloween. And marking 20 years of Colorado Matters with founding host Dan Drayer.