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rWotD Episode 2948: San Luis Valley Welcome to Random Wiki of the Day, your journey through Wikipedia's vast and varied content, one random article at a time.The random article for Friday, 30 May 2025, is San Luis Valley.The San Luis Valley is a region in south-central Colorado with a small portion overlapping into New Mexico. The valley is approximately 122 miles (196 km) long and 74 miles (119 km) wide, making it the largest alpine valley in the world. It extends from the Continental Divide on the northwest rim into New Mexico on the south. It contains 6 counties and portions of 3 others. It is an extensive high-elevation depositional basin of approximately 8,000 square miles (21,000 km2) with an average elevation of 7,664 feet (2,336 m) above sea level. The valley is a section of the Rio Grande Rift and is drained to the south by the Rio Grande, which rises in the San Juan Mountains to the west of the valley and flows south into New Mexico. The San Luis Valley has a cold desert climate but has substantial water resources from the Rio Grande and groundwater.The San Luis Valley was ceded to the United States by Mexico following the Mexican–American War. Hispanic settlers began moving north and settling in the valley after the United States made a treaty with the Utes and established a fort in the early 1850s. Prior to the Mexican war the Spanish and Mexican governments had reserved the valley to the Utes. Later in the 19th century Anglo settlers began to settle in the valley and engaged in mining, ranching, and irrigated agriculture. Today the valley has a diverse Anglo and Hispanic population.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 00:12 UTC on Friday, 30 May 2025.For the full current version of the article, see San Luis Valley on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Brian.
Today, Sun rural reporter Tracy Ross talks about her latest travels through the San Luis Valley and some of the hidden gems that can be found in southern Colorado.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The nutrition title was first included in the 1973 farm bill. It's projected to make up 84% of total Farm Bill spending, with most of the funds going to SNAP. That's because the program helps more than 40 million low-income individuals provide food for their families each month. Some of those people are farmers. In this episode, we talk to Mark Nicholson, Senior Director of Policy at the Fair Food Network to dig into how the farm bill links farms and food access. And we'll talk to farmers about how they are uniquely positioned to directly provide nutritious food for the families in their communities. Mark Nicholson, Senior Director of Policy, Fair Food NetworkMark joined the Fair Food Network after an extensive career in leading organizations involved in national agriculture policy and specialty crop production. He is a third-generation apple farmer and spent much of his professional life co-running a New York-based family business, including developing value-added products to increase revenue to the farm. His work advocating for the specialty crop industry over the past two decades earned him national recognition as a skilled and dedicated policy expert, included roles as the Chairman of the Board and member of the Government Affairs Committee for the U.S. Apple Association (USApple). Mark also spent time in his early career working in government at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and at USApple. Mark brings multiple perspectives to the agriculture policy world, and a strong passion and understanding for the myriad issues that face family farms today. Read his full bio. Shannon Maes, Rancher, San Juan Ranch + Young Farmers Water FellowWhat's a ground-level view from a cattle ranch in southern Colorado as fall turns to winter amidst prolonged drought and as legislative work on the next Farm Bill wraps up? Shannon Maes shares some of her experiences of drought, working with water and grazing for soil health and climate resilience as well as a few thoughts on agricultural and food policy from her perspective of working on ranches and ditchriding in her home region of Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. Shannon has worked in agriculture since 2017 and completed a Water Advocacy Fellowship through the National Young Farmer's Coalition during 2023. Currently she works with cows, dogs, horses, people, soil, grass, and weather at San Juan Ranch in the San Luis Valley. Benu Amun-Ra, Farmer and Owner, Sacred Ancestors Seed Initiative + Young Farmers Land FellowBenu Amun-Ra (We/Our/Ours) is a generational farmer, seed-keeper, and the owner of S.A.S.I (Sacred Ancestors Seed Initiative) Farms located in Centennial, CO. We teach about the importance of seeds and the reciprocal relationships we once had with Mother Nature by reinvigorating indigenous ways of knowing. We live at the intersections of being a single mother, a BIPOC farmer, LGBTQ+ community member and have over 32 years' experience as a primary caregiver for those living with disabilities. Our advocacy includes working with organizations that address these issues in the capacity of a Community Council member for Hunger Free Colorado, an alumnus of the Family Voice Council for the Colorado Department of Human Services, an alumnus of the Creative Leadership Institute with the Colorado Health Foundation, and as a Land Fellow with the National Young Farmers Coalition. Read our full bio here. To find out more about our work, visit: www.sacredecocenter.org Celina Ngozi, Farmer and Founder, Dry Bones Heal Bottomland + Young Farmers Land FellowCelina Ngozi is an agrarian of 10 years. Her experience in food production, access, and distribution has led her back to her maternal ancestral land in rural East Central Texas. There she grows a variety of herbs and culturally relevant foods along with advocating for returning to heirs' property and greater land access for Black and Brown growers. Learn more about the SNAP program here, the Healthy Food Finance Initiative here, and the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP) hereCheck out Fair Food Network hereLearn more about the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program hereThe Farm Report is hosted by Leigh Ollman and Alita Kelly, produced by Leigh Ollman, Evan Flom and H Conley, and edited by Hannah Beal and H Conley. Audio engineering is by Armen Spendjian and H Conley. Music is by Breakmaster Cylinder and JangwaLearn more about the National Young Farmers Coalition here and consider becoming a member. Click here to take action on the farm bill and other important policy issues. The Farm Report is Powered by Simplecast.
This episode of the Bourbon Road podcast features Jim Shannon (traveling in Denver, Colorado) interviewing Al Laws of Laws Whiskey House. Laws shares the history and philosophy behind his Denver-based distillery, emphasizing their grain-to-glass approach using heirloom Colorado grains like Centennial white wheat and San Luis Valley rye. He discusses the mash bill of their flagship Four Grain Bourbon (60% corn, 20% wheat, 10% rye, 10% malt) and the specific flavor contributions of each grain, including the unique "penny metallic bite" from the rye and nutty finish from the scarlet barley. Laws explains how they adjusted their cooking technique to achieve balance in the Four Grain Bourbon and credits his mentor, Bill Friel, a veteran distiller from Bardstown, Kentucky. Laws recounts his personal journey from oil and gas finance in Canada to pursuing his obsession with American whiskey, driven by a desire for hands-on artistry and authenticity. He highlights the historical significance of the Bottle in Bond Act as the first U.S. consumer protection law and Laws Whiskey House's pioneering role as the first Bottled-in-Bond whiskey in Colorado. The conversation also delves into their 100% Rye Whiskey, exploring the earthy notes derived from the soil where the grain is grown at high altitude in the San Luis Valley. They taste a Cognac Cask Finished Bourbon, discussing the process of layering in different aged bourbons into French oak casks and a large 1600-gallon foeder for integration, resulting in a richer, more integrated flavor over years. This Solera-style finished bourbon is a special, limited annual release. They also try a high-proof, high-wheat blend called "Super Wheater," noting its intense flavor and how water or ice can open it up. Laws describes the unique distillery visit experience, featuring a "Whiskey Church" for educational tastings and a "Whiskey Sanctuary" tasting room with panoramic mountain views. He emphasizes the importance of their team, calling the distillery a "village". They discuss distribution, noting availability in about 15-16 states, with Illinois being a strong market, and the best way to purchase is often directly online or at the distillery. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!
How much did Colorado lawmakers cross off their "to do" list, and what's left to do as they head into the final day of the legislative session? Then, what potential federal funding cuts could mean to public media in Colorado. Plus, how the Colorado Flower Collective is helping local flower farmers. Later, words to remember to stay safe from lightning this severe weather season. And celebrate 25 years of otherworldly observations in the San Luis Valley.
An Anniversary Celebration for Memorial Day weekend will be a good time for first contact.
She was the first in her family to go to college. Now she's a college president, helping other first-gen students navigate higher ed. We speak with the new president of Fort Lewis College, Dr. Heather Shotton, about job readiness in rural Colorado. Then, the San Luis Valley braces for cuts to Medicaid. And artist and historian Chloé Duplessis' new exhibit, "12 Tablecloths" at the Trinidad History Museum, gives a seat at the table to Black domestic workers whose stories were nearly forgotten.
Tucked between the Sangre de Cristos and the San Juans, Colorado's San Luis Valley is more than just a scenic drive—it's a vital hub for agriculture, wetlands, and water conservation. In this recast episode, we revisit Haley's conversation with Rio de la Vista, a longtime conservationist and water expert, to unpack why this unique region matters not only to Colorado, but to the entire West. From community-led water solutions to cultural heritage and ecological gems, this conversation dives into the Valley's challenges and triumphs—and why it just might be a model for the future.Topics[0:00] Welcome and Introduction[4:00] Why the Valley Matters[8:30] The Water Crisis and Community Response[14:30] Conservation in Action[20:30] Looking Ahead[26:30] Closing ThoughtsNeed professional help finding, buying or selling a legacy ranch, contact us: Mirr Ranch Group 901 Acoma Street Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (303) 623-4545 https://www.MirrRanchGroup.com/
Alien abductions, cryptid creatures, secret government programs, portals to other worlds, cattle mutilations – the San Luis Valley may be the strangest and most terrifying place you've never heard of.IN THIS EPISODE: We've had several episodes before about mysterious locations that are host to strange, paranormal activity. Skinwalker Ranch, for example, or The Bennington Triangle, or even the harsh terrain of Alaska. Perhaps one of the locations that appears to persistently slip under the radar is the San Luis Valley in Colorado. The region is home to very much the same variety of paranormal activity as other apparent hot spots. UFO sightings here are in abundance, for example. As are cases of cattle mutilation, sightings of strange creatures, and even alien abduction. In short, the San Luis Valley could be one of the most interesting locations in the world.SOURCES AND RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE…“The Paranormal, Extraterrestrial, and Otherworldly Explanations for Cattle Mutilations” by Marcus Lowth for UFOInsight.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/66a64hu5, https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/vhykeezp=====Darkness Syndicate members get the ad-free version. https://weirddarkness.com/syndicate=====(Over time links seen above may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)= = = = ="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46= = = = =WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2025, Weird Darkness.=====Originally aired: March 2022EPISODE PAGE at WeirdDarkness.com (includes list of sources): https://weirddarkness.com/CattleMutilations
Farmers are now dealing with the impacts of the climate crisis on a daily basis. Experts predict weather events including droughts and flooding will only get worse. Young and beginning farmers, especially BIPOC farmers, are feeling those impacts the most. Are there opportunities to advance water and climate action and justice through the Farm Bill? We interview Abi Fain, Chief Legal and Policy Officer at the Intertribal Ag Council. And we'll talk to young farmers building solutions to address water access and climate issues. Abi Fain, Chief Legal & Policy Officer, Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC)Abi works with her colleagues at IAC to develop and implement education and advocacy strategies that support the policy priorities identified by IAC's member Tribes and advance IAC's overall mission of pursuing and promoting the conservation, development and use of Tribal agriculture resources for the betterment of Tribal people. To this, Abi and IAC's policy team focus their efforts on ensuring Tribal producers have opportunities to meaningfully participate in programs administered by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Affairs through administrative or legislative solutions. Prior to joining IAC in May 2022, Abi practiced law for seven years at Pipestem Law and specialized in the representation of tribal governments, tribal enterprises, and Native organizations. Abi is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Susan Mitchell, Owner and Operator, Cloverleigh Farms + Young Farmers Land FellowSusan Mitchell is the owner/operator of Cloverleigh Farm in Columbia, CT. As a first-generation farmer, she grows certified organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers for a robust CSA program alongside her partner Josh Carnes, who raises pastured-livestock. They landed on their “forever farm” a few years ago after leasing land for many years while searching for long-term tenure and security. Susan is one of the co-founders of the New Connecticut Farmer Alliance, the Connecticut Chapter of Young Farmers. facebookinstagram Matt Hollenbeck, Hollenbeck's Cider Mill + Young Farmers Land FellowMatt Hollenbeck lives and farms in Virgil, NY and is the 4th generation steward of Hollenbeck's Cider Mill. He has been a factory worker, cubicle jockey, geologist, outdoor adventure guide, worked on a small organic csa farm, a butcher shop, and many other varied jobs before settling into continuing his family's 90+ year old ag processing business. He's a first generation orchardist with impostor syndrome, a staunch and vocal advocate for rural issues, smallholder agriculture, and appropriate technology. Matt is also a firm believer that family is the most important part of a family business. And a luddite to boot! LeVar Eady, CEO and Founder, BluRok Farms + Young Farmers Water FellowBluRok Farm was born out of LeVar's determination to grow the best hemp/cannabis possible while building a business that helps people become business owners and heal the planet. His path started in the garden where I learned to grow roses with his grandmother. Visit BluRok Farms at https://blurokfarm.com/. Shannon Maes, Rancher, San Juan Ranch + Young Farmers Water FellowWhat's a ground-level view from a cattle ranch in southern Colorado as fall turns to winter amidst prolonged drought and as legislative work on Farm Bill 2024 wraps up? Shannon Maes shares some of her experiences of drought, working with water and grazing for soil health and climate resilience as well as a few thoughts on agricultural and food policy from her perspective of working on ranches and ditchriding in her home region of Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. Shannon has worked in agriculture since 2017 and completed a Water Advocacy Fellowship through the National Young Farmer's Coalition during 2023. Currently she works with cows, dogs, horses, people, soil, grass, and weather at San Juan Ranch in the San Luis Valley. Check out the Intertribal Agriculture Council hereLearn more about the USDA's EQIP program here and the crop insurance agent training program Abi mentions hereMore information about the Small Farms Conservation Act and the Farmer to Farmer Education Act can be found here and hereConnect with the farmers featured in this episode. Visit Cloverleigh Farm, Hollenbeck's Cider Mill, San Juan Ranch, and BluRok FarmThe Farm Report is hosted by Leigh Ollman and Alita Kelly, produced by Leigh Ollman, Evan Flom and H Conley, and edited by Hannah Beal and H Conley. Audio engineering is by Armen Spendjian and H Conley. Music is by Breakmaster Cylinder and JangwaLearn more about the National Young Farmers Coalition here and consider becoming a member. Click here to take action on the farm bill and other important policy issues.The Farm Report is Powered by Simplecast.
In this episode of the OutThere Colorado Podcast, Spencer and Seth chat about the state's best outdoor destinations (Seth made a bracket), a wild thrill ride on the Front Range, Spencer's gator wrestling experience in the San Luis Valley, and more.
In the eyes of the Trump Administration, trans people do not exist. The president signed an executive order declaring, in part, “it is the policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female." Reality is more nuanced than that. We get perspective from Rev. Paula Stone Williams, a pastor, therapist, and mayor pro tem of Lyons, Colorado. Then, the sandhill cranes return this weekend to the San Luis Valley. Plus, how USDA cuts are affecting Colorado.
While this flock appears to have not been impacted by bird flu, an eastern population of sandhill cranes saw 1,500 die.
Tylor Barrett is the founder of Alpine Valley Mushrooms, a family-owned certified organic mushroom farm and business I the San Luis Valley of Colorado. Tylor and his family are in their fourth year of running their mushroom venture, and share a ton of wisdom they've learned from their journey so far.Please rate and review this episode wherever you're listening ( : Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
John Horrigan received five Boston/New England Emmy Awards (and had twenty nominations) for his role as host and writer of the critically-acclaimed television show entitled "The Folklorist". The program even featured paranormal segments on the Gloucester Sea Serpent, Ape Canyon, The Angels of Mons, Spring-heeled Jack and the Dover Demon. He has had an interest in unexplained mysteries and paranormal events for nearly 40 years. He began broadcasting about the unexplained on local access television and radio beginning in 1991, producing programs dedicated to mysterious phenomena such as Nightime Talk Television (1989), Omnibus Unlimited (1992), Tails (1993), AAHA (1999) and Forteana (2000). He was the last person to interview Betty Hill (alleged first alien abductee) in 1999 with “The Lost Betty Hill Interview”. His research into Unidentified Flying Objects took him to Roswell, New Mexico (three times); Area 51; Kecksburg, Pennsylvania; Shag Harbour, Nova Scotia; Gulf Breeze, Florida; the San Luis Valley (investigating cattle mutilation), the Lockheed Skunk Works; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; Eglin Air Force Base; Cheyenne Mountain; Edwards Air Force Base; Hill Air Force Base; Dugway Proving Grounds; White Sands Missile Range and Hurlburt Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.
John Horrigan received five Boston/New England Emmy Awards (and had twenty nominations) for his role as host and writer of the critically-acclaimed television show entitled "The Folklorist". The program even featured paranormal segments on the Gloucester Sea Serpent, Ape Canyon, The Angels of Mons, Spring-heeled Jack and the Dover Demon. He has had an interest in unexplained mysteries and paranormal events for nearly 40 years. He began broadcasting about the unexplained on local access television and radio beginning in 1991, producing programs dedicated to mysterious phenomena such as Nightime Talk Television (1989), Omnibus Unlimited (1992), Tails (1993), AAHA (1999) and Forteana (2000). He was the last person to interview Betty Hill (alleged first alien abductee) in 1999 with “The Lost Betty Hill Interview”. His research into Unidentified Flying Objects took him to Roswell, New Mexico (three times); Area 51; Kecksburg, Pennsylvania; Shag Harbour, Nova Scotia; Gulf Breeze, Florida; the San Luis Valley (investigating cattle mutilation), the Lockheed Skunk Works; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; Eglin Air Force Base; Cheyenne Mountain; Edwards Air Force Base; Hill Air Force Base; Dugway Proving Grounds; White Sands Missile Range and Hurlburt Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.
John Horrigan received five Boston/New England Emmy Awards (and had twenty nominations) for his role as host and writer of the critically-acclaimed television show entitled "The Folklorist". The program even featured paranormal segments on the Gloucester Sea Serpent, Ape Canyon, The Angels of Mons, Spring-heeled Jack and the Dover Demon. He has had an interest in unexplained mysteries and paranormal events for nearly 40 years. He began broadcasting about the unexplained on local access television and radio beginning in 1991, producing programs dedicated to mysterious phenomena such as Nightime Talk Television (1989), Omnibus Unlimited (1992), Tails (1993), AAHA (1999) and Forteana (2000). He was the last person to interview Betty Hill (alleged first alien abductee) in 1999 with “The Lost Betty Hill Interview”. His research into Unidentified Flying Objects took him to Roswell, New Mexico (three times); Area 51; Kecksburg, Pennsylvania; Shag Harbour, Nova Scotia; Gulf Breeze, Florida; the San Luis Valley (investigating cattle mutilation), the Lockheed Skunk Works; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; Eglin Air Force Base; Cheyenne Mountain; Edwards Air Force Base; Hill Air Force Base; Dugway Proving Grounds; White Sands Missile Range and Hurlburt Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.
We return for a brand new season of MU, kicking off by plunging into the obscure world of occult groups and secret societies. We explore the recent work of Frederick Dodson, who spent years investigating the hidden aspects of Freemasonry, only to uncover an even more secretive group recruiting members through what he came to know as "side doors." Who are these groups, and how are they using spiritual or invisible methods to exert influence and control over society? Then, for our Plus+ members, we cover reports of energy-zapping orbs, cloud-cloaking UFOs, and strange phenomena of the San Luis Valley nexus. Links Secret Societies and Spiritual Warfare Lynne McTaggart Brothers of the Shadows: Overlords of Chaos The Kaiser's Dream Brothers of the Shadows: A Perspective on Conspiracies Russia Builds 3 New Churches a Day, Orthodox Leader Says The World of Esoteric Orders: Secrets Within Secrets Plus+ Extension The extension of the show is EXCLUSIVE to Plus+ Members. To join, click HERE. 'UFO' appears in the sky just weeks after eagle-eyed Aussies spotted unusual 'spaceship' cloud Enter The Valley Stalking the Herd Help Honor Christopher O'Brien's Legacy The Art Larabie UFO Encounter UFO Related Blackouts Art Larabie witnessed a glowing UFO hovering over power lines near Kukagami Lake Road, Ontario, 1973 Controversial Steven Greer moment for sure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's YOUR time to #EdUp In this episode, #1,002, President Series (Powered By Ellucian) #325, & brought to YOU by the InsightsEDU 2025 conference YOUR guest is Dr. David A. Tandberg, President, Adams State University YOUR host is Dr. Joe Sallustio How does serving 5 of Colorado's 10 lowest-income counties shape Adams State's mission? What makes the "Adams Promise" & direct admissions a game-changer for access? How is the one-stop student service center transforming the student experience? Why is being Hispanic-serving different than Hispanic-enrolling? How are grow-your-own initiatives keeping talent in the San Luis Valley? What strategies drive success in state funding advocacy? Ad-Free & extended conversation ONLY for #EdUp Subscribers includes: Dr. Tandberg's insights on public policy strategy & state funding The art of crafting compelling narratives for legislative presentations His perspective on building relationships with other institutions Strategic approaches to Joint Budget Committee testimony Views on preparation vs perception in leadership communications Listen in to #EdUp Do YOU want to accelerate YOUR professional development? Do YOU want to get exclusive early access to ad-free episodes, extended episodes, bonus episodes, original content, invites to special events, & more? Do YOU want to get all this while helping to sustain EdUp? Then BECOME A SUBSCRIBER TODAY! Want to get YOUR organization to pay for YOUR subscription? Email EdUp@edupexperience.com Thank YOU so much for tuning in. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to EdUp! Connect with YOUR EdUp Team - Elvin Freytes & Dr. Joe Sallustio ● Join YOUR EdUp community at The EdUp Experience! We make education YOUR business!
E13: Winter is here in the San Luis Valley and Jolie might get cold feet.E14: Ken and Christine try to conquer their unforgiving landscape in the name of family. Jenn and Jolie fight to keep their love alive. Charlie takes a big step toward Jen, who is staying on the mountain, but her trip back home may prove its too little too late.Please rate and subscribe to our podcast. You can rate us at either Apple Podcasts, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/realitea-times-two/id1689517536 or spotify, https://open.spotify.com/show/7rInYf1BD8YiFeCeOOx8gI. I will also start reading your 4 or 5-star ratings on the air!If you like us, please share with your friends.Please visit and follow us on:Facebook: https://facebook.com/realiteatimestwoIG: https://instagram.com/realiteatimestwoThreads: https://www.threads.net/@realiteatimestwoTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/RealiteaxTwoPod Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realiteaxtwopod?lang=en You can also e-mail us at realiteaxtwo@hotmail.com. If you want to be a guest on the podcast, please e-mail at us at the above e-mail and please put in the subject line "Guesting on Your Podcast". Please also mention which show you would prefer to guest on.You can find us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@realiteatimestwoFind us on Discord at realiteaxtwoFollow us on Reddit at https://www.reddit.com/r/realiteatimestwopod/ I got a new website!!!! Visit https://realiteatimestwo.podcastpage.io/?v=zzea where you can listen to the episodes, review the podcast and so much more!!Listen to my new podcast with my friend Mikel called "Next Take Podcast" at the below YouTube link at: www.youtube.com/@NextTakePodcast/featured or by going to our website www.solo.to/nexttakepodcastIf you want to start your own podcast, please click the link: https://alitu.com?fp_ref=realitea to get 20% off on starting your very own podcast, plus it supports the show!Have you ever wanted to be a guest on a podcast. Well you can make that happen by going to PodMatch and signing up to become a podcast guest. Use the unique link below to and find us! https://www.joinpodmatch.com/realitea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
E1: Five city dwellers leave modern comfort to chase love off-grid.E2: Joe and Myesha find out if Lauren is a good addition to their relationship; Jolie leaves her family to be with Jenn in brutal San Luis Valley; Arune's lover leaves her stranded.E3: Shayla wants more romance and less hard work at Ryan's homestead; Jolie struggles with the hardships of off-grid life to prove her love to Jenn; Arune finally brings Samuel home.E4: Craving alone time, Arune shows Samuel where they can get frisky off-grid.Please rate and subscribe to our podcast. You can rate us at either Apple Podcasts, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/realitea-times-two/id1689517536 or spotify, https://open.spotify.com/show/7rInYf1BD8YiFeCeOOx8gI. I will also start reading your 4 or 5-star ratings on the air!If you like us, please share with your friends.Please visit and follow us on:Facebook: https://facebook.com/realiteatimestwoIG: https://instagram.com/realiteatimestwoThreads: https://www.threads.net/@realiteatimestwoTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/RealiteaxTwoPod Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realiteaxtwopod?lang=en You can also e-mail us at realiteaxtwo@hotmail.com. If you want to be a guest on the podcast, please e-mail at us at the above e-mail and please put in the subject line "Guesting on Your Podcast". Please also mention which show you would prefer to guest on.You can find us on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@realiteatimestwoFind us on Discord at realiteaxtwoFollow us on Reddit at https://www.reddit.com/r/realiteatimestwopod/ I got a new website!!!! Visit https://realiteatimestwo.podcastpage.io/?v=zzea where you can listen to the episodes, review the podcast and so much more!!Listen to my new podcast with my friend Mikel called "Next Take Podcast" at the below YouTube link at: www.youtube.com/@NextTakePodcast/featured or by going to our website www.solo.to/nexttakepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
John Horrigan received five Boston/New England Emmy Awards (and had twenty nominations) for his role as host and writer of the critically-acclaimed television show entitled "The Folklorist". The program even featured paranormal segments on the Gloucester Sea Serpent, Ape Canyon, The Angels of Mons, Spring-heeled Jack and the Dover Demon. He has had an interest in unexplained mysteries and paranormal events for nearly 40 years. He began broadcasting about the unexplained on local access television and radio beginning in 1991, producing programs dedicated to mysterious phenomena such as Nightime Talk Television (1989), Omnibus Unlimited (1992), Tails (1993), AAHA (1999) and Forteana (2000). He was the last person to interview Betty Hill (alleged first alien abductee) in 1999 with “The Lost Betty Hill Interview”. His research into Unidentified Flying Objects took him to Roswell, New Mexico (three times); Area 51; Kecksburg, Pennsylvania; Shag Harbour, Nova Scotia; Gulf Breeze, Florida; the San Luis Valley (investigating cattle mutilation), the Lockheed Skunk Works; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; Eglin Air Force Base; Cheyenne Mountain; Edwards Air Force Base; Hill Air Force Base; Dugway Proving Grounds; White Sands Missile Range and Hurlburt Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.
John Horrigan received five Boston/New England Emmy Awards (and had twenty nominations) for his role as host and writer of the critically-acclaimed television show entitled "The Folklorist". The program even featured paranormal segments on the Gloucester Sea Serpent, Ape Canyon, The Angels of Mons, Spring-heeled Jack and the Dover Demon. He has had an interest in unexplained mysteries and paranormal events for nearly 40 years. He began broadcasting about the unexplained on local access television and radio beginning in 1991, producing programs dedicated to mysterious phenomena such as Nightime Talk Television (1989), Omnibus Unlimited (1992), Tails (1993), AAHA (1999) and Forteana (2000). He was the last person to interview Betty Hill (alleged first alien abductee) in 1999 with “The Lost Betty Hill Interview”. His research into Unidentified Flying Objects took him to Roswell, New Mexico (three times); Area 51; Kecksburg, Pennsylvania; Shag Harbour, Nova Scotia; Gulf Breeze, Florida; the San Luis Valley (investigating cattle mutilation), the Lockheed Skunk Works; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; Eglin Air Force Base; Cheyenne Mountain; Edwards Air Force Base; Hill Air Force Base; Dugway Proving Grounds; White Sands Missile Range and Hurlburt Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.
John Horrigan received five Boston/New England Emmy Awards (and had twenty nominations) for his role as host and writer of the critically-acclaimed television show entitled "The Folklorist". The program even featured paranormal segments on the Gloucester Sea Serpent, Ape Canyon, The Angels of Mons, Spring-heeled Jack and the Dover Demon. He has had an interest in unexplained mysteries and paranormal events for nearly 40 years. He began broadcasting about the unexplained on local access television and radio beginning in 1991, producing programs dedicated to mysterious phenomena such as Nightime Talk Television (1989), Omnibus Unlimited (1992), Tails (1993), AAHA (1999) and Forteana (2000). He was the last person to interview Betty Hill (alleged first alien abductee) in 1999 with “The Lost Betty Hill Interview”. His research into Unidentified Flying Objects took him to Roswell, New Mexico (three times); Area 51; Kecksburg, Pennsylvania; Shag Harbour, Nova Scotia; Gulf Breeze, Florida; the San Luis Valley (investigating cattle mutilation), the Lockheed Skunk Works; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; Eglin Air Force Base; Cheyenne Mountain; Edwards Air Force Base; Hill Air Force Base; Dugway Proving Grounds; White Sands Missile Range and Hurlburt Field.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.
Today the Boys celebrate Terroir with two bottles that have plenty of, bring it in, nuance to spare. Matt brings the Laws Whiskey House San Luis Valley Straight Rye, highlighting the grain in a high-altitude valley in Colorado. Drew brings the Lagrimas Del Valle Plata 2022 Palo Verde, a single-field agave release. The QuickSips™ have a clear winner in one direction, and even a surprising realization. Listen and sip along as the Boys share their tasting notes and random wanderings. Invite your friends and Make It A Happy Friday™!
Tonight, we discuss an area of the United States with more than it's far share unbelievable anomalies such as UFO's, strange creatures, portals, paranormal activity, underground bases, unsolved disappearances and cattle mutilations. Get The Book No other region in North America features the variety and intensity of unusual phenomena found in the world's largest alpine valley, the San Luis Valley of Colorado and New Mexico. Since 1989, Christopher O'Brien has documented thousands of high-strange accounts that report UFOs, ghosts, crypto-creatures, cattle mutilations, skinwalkers and sorcerers, along with portal areas, secret underground bases and covert military activity. This mysterious region at the top of North America has a higher incidence of UFO reports than any other area of the continent and is the publicized birthplace of the “cattle mutilation" mystery. Hundreds of animals have been found strangely slain during waves of anomalous aerial craft sightings. Is the government directly involved? Are there underground bases here? Does the military fly exotic aerial craft in this valley that are radar-invisible below 18,000 feet? These and many other questions are addressed in this all-new work by one of America's top paranormal investigators. Take a fantastic journey through one of the world's most enigmatic locales! Critics argue that all UFO evidence is anecdotal[90] and can be explained as prosaic natural phenomena. Defenders of UFO research counter that knowledge of observational data, other than what is reported in the popular media, is limited in the scientific community and further study is needed.[91][92]Studies have established that the majority of UFO observations are misidentified conventional objects or natural phenomena—most commonly aircraft, balloons including sky lanterns, satellites, and astronomical objects such as meteors, bright stars and planets. A small percentage are hoaxes.[note 4] Fewer than 10% of reported sightings remain unexplained after proper investigation and therefore can be classified as unidentified in the strictest sense. According to Steven Novella, proponents of the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) suggest these unexplained reports are of alien spacecraft, however the null hypothesis cannot be excluded; that these reports are simply other more prosaic phenomena that cannot be identified due to lack of complete information or due to the necessary subjectivity of the reports. Novella says that instead of accepting the null hypothesis, UFO enthusiasts tend to engage in special pleading by offering outlandish, untested explanations for the validity of the ETH, which violate Occam's razor.[93]Follow Our Other ShowsFollow UFO WitnessesFollow Crime Watch WeeklyFollow Paranormal FearsFollow Seven: Disturbing Chronicle StoriesJoin our Patreon for ad-free listening and more bonus content.Follow us on Instagram @mysteriousradioFollow us on TikTok mysteriousradioTikTok Follow us on Twitter @mysteriousradio Follow us on Pinterest pinterest.com/mysteriousradio Like us on Facebook Facebook.com/mysteriousradio
Amye is joined by Amanda to chat about Love Off the Grid S2:EPS 1&2 Moving Day and Three's CompanyPoly couple Joe and Myesha find out if Lauren is a good addition to their relationship; divorcée Jolie leaves her family in Albuquerque to be with her girlfriend Jenn in Colorado's brutal San Luis Valley, while Arune's lover leaves her stranded.Support the show:To get ad-free and bonus episodes including: Sister Wives, cult content, murder shows, and Gen X content, sign up here:https://www.patreon.com/littlemissrecaphttps://littlemissrecap.supercast.com/Give the gift of Little Miss Recap EXTRA: https://littlemissrecap.supercast.com/gifts/newSPONSORS:You can support the show by checking out this month's sponsor!Get 50% off your first box of Factor Meals!www.factormeals.com/littlemiss50 and use code: littlemiss50 THE SHOW:Get in touch with us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/littlemissrecapFacebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/littlemissrecapInstagram: @littlemissrecap Voicemail: www.littlemissrecap.comEmail: littlemissrecap@gmail.comGet your Little Miss Recap Merch: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/littlemissrecap?ref_id=33625You can find Amanda's substack: https://amandalipnackradel.substack.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's Friday, and we're breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, a notorious Venezuelan gang called Tren de Aragua has reportedly arrived in Denver, and they've already been connected to a violent jewelry store robbery, a condemned apartment complex in Aurora, and some rumored violence at a political rally. So is this gang a big problem or just another scapegoat? City Cast newsletter editor Adrian González joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about newcomer narratives, a report about plummeting birth rates, and our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. We're giving away tickets to see some awesome chamber music! If you want to support us and see a great concert, sign up to become a member of City Cast Denver today. We're giving away a free pair of tickets to any show on the Friends of Chamber Music's fall season to each of the first four people who become members today. Sign up for as little as $8/month right here: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Paul mentioned Bree's interview with César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández, author of “Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of the ‘Criminal Alien.'” He also talked about the new gondola project in Idaho Springs and the Chez Artiste closing. Bree mentioned Mutiny Information Cafe moving to Englewood and Wash Park's 125th anniversary. Adrian discussed llamas in the San Luis Valley and bike lane plans. Paul also recommends this recent analysis of the effects of U.S. sanctions foreign economies and politics from the Washington Post. What do you think about Tren de Aragua? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 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 episode: See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Regional Air Quality Council - Sign up for summer ozone text alerts Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. PineMelon: Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this final podcast with the LOR Foundation, we get together with DJ Salazar, Founder of Valley Veterans Recreation. Listen as Monte Vista Community Officer Ivette Atencio and DJ discuss the special equipment funded by the LOR Foundation, for veterans here in Monte Vista and the San Luis Valley, as well as past activities, ongoing programs, future plans, other project ideas, and a whole lot more. Enjoy...
Bill first picked up a camera in 1965, at age 20, little knowing that photography would become his profession. Since then camera work has taken him to India, China, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Alaska, Egypt, Ireland, Bhutan, Zambia, Chilean Patagonia and the American West. Bill's images have appeared in magazines, books, calendars, newspapers, catalogs, annual reports. In 1995 Bill moved to the San Luis Valley, took up residence in a travel trailer near Crestone, Colorado and started building a strawbale house.Intro music “Brightside of the Sun,” by Basin and Range. Outro: “Smoke Alarm,” by Carsie Blanton. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chrisryan.substack.com/subscribe
IN THIS EPISODE: We've had several episodes before about mysterious locations that are host to strange, paranormal activity. Skinwalker Ranch, for example, or The Bennington Triangle, or even the harsh terrain of Alaska. Perhaps one of the locations that appears to persistently slip under the radar is the San Luis Valley in Colorado. The region is home to very much the same variety of paranormal activity as other apparent hot spots. UFO sightings here are in abundance, for example. As are cases of cattle mutilation, sightings of strange creatures, and even alien abduction. In short, the San Luis Valley could be one of the most interesting locations in the world.SOURCES AND REFERENCES FROM THE EPISODE…“The Paranormal, Extraterrestrial, and Otherworldly Explanations for Cattle Mutilations” by Marcus Lowth for UFOInsight.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/66a64hu5, https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/vhykeezpWeird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library. = = = = =(Over time links seen above may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)= = = = ="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46= = = = =WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2024, Weird Darkness.= = = = =Originally aired: March, 2022CUSTOM WEBPAGE: https://weirddarkness.com/cattle-mutilations-bigfoot-aliens-mind-control/
The US state of Colorado possesses a colourful history of strange and inexplicable incidents. From the San Luis Valley to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, many residents have reported bizarre phenomena including strange lights and cattle mutilations. In this episode, we will hear the accounts of one man who spent almost a decade in charge of a buffalo ranch, on which he would almost lose his sanity.MUSIC Tracks used by kind permission of Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0Tracks used by kind permission of CO.AGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The San Luis Valley has always had dust storms, for as long as humans have been there. The problem now is that as water dwindles, temperatures warm, a multi-decade drought rages on, and people continue altering the landscape, dust is increasing. Dust and sand storms impact farming economies by reducing valuable topsoil, and breathing in dust can have immediate and long-term respiratory and health impacts. We talk with farmer and rancher Kyler Brown and Dr. Lisa Cicutto about the impact of dust on public health and the state of farming in the Valley, along with the constant challenge of embracing change and uncertainty amid climate change. Learn more about the podcast at clearingtheair.org. Sign up for the Institute for Science & Policy's mailing list. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube. If you like our work, consider making a tax-deductible donation. The Institute for Science & Policy is a catalyst for thoughtful dialogue, working toward solutions to society's greatest challenges with scientific thinking, empathy, and inclusivity. The Institute is a project of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Episode Credits: Reporting, writing, hosting: Kristan Uhlenbrock Producing, marketing: Tricia Waddell Additional reporting and fact-checking: Nicole Delaney and Kate Long Sound design: Seth Samuel with tracks from Epidemic Sounds Audio engineering: Jesse Boynton
Lost Highways: Dispatches from the Shadows of the Rocky Mountains
Colorado's San Luis Valley is the last place you might expect to find a centuries old lineage of Sephardic Jews. But a rare form of breast cancer and a host of odd traditions, artifacts, and rituals led researchers to discover an enclave of Crypto-Jews that fled Europe for the New World in the 16th Century to hide out in one of the most remote areas of the lower 48 states. On this episode, we'll unveil a secret Jewish faith and identity rooted deep in the American Southwest.
On this episode of Water Buffs, we examine how drought can harm human health, specifically how dramatic flucutations in water availability can lead to increasingly toxic water supplies. Dr. James is an award-winning epidemiologist and engineer specializing in environmental and climate risk factors and their connection to health in vulnerable populations. She is an associate professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, one of three institutions that make up the Colorado School of Public Health. Dr. James recently spoke to journalist Melissa Bailey for a Water Desk-supported article, “Once 'paradise,' parched Colorado valley grapples with arsenic in water.” The article, originally published by KFF Health News, centered around Dr. James' community-based research projects that investigate exposure to heavy metals, in particular a rise in carcinogenic arsenic in drinking water in Colorado's drought-stricken San Luis Valley.
I am a financial professional with a passion for adventure and a love for my family. My wife, Jennifer, the Head Coach for Franklin College's Women's Soccer team and our two children, Atlas (3) and Skylar (2), bring joy and fulfillment to my life. Alongside them, our 15-year-old black lab, Olie, completes our happy home. Throughout my life, I have accomplished various feats. On a whim, I moved to Colorado's San Luis Valley to work on a honeybee farm for a year. I've ran across the clouds in the Leadville Ultra and summited Mt Rainier; having had the opportunity to watch glass grass grow within its crater. I hike, backpack, climb, swim, sand/snowboard, and most often wander. I love to run. Especially on dirt trails. I've excelled at almost every sport I've played…soccer being the most revered. It's global. And I believe that life can be simplified down to what happens between four lines, two goals and a black and white ball. I believe in teamwork. When I'm not in my suit I wear superhero T's on the regular…and often believe I am one. I love people. When asked what the most important attributes are person can have, I start with the ability to listen, ability to share, and ability to learn. In that order. I'm a teacher, student, and philosopher whose favorite video game is TLoZ. In addition to my personal pursuits, I am a financial professional running a small firm that covers two-thirds of Indiana. Our firm specializes in retirement planning, life insurance, investments, and other financial services. I am extremely proud of the team we have within Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial. Aside from being a part of a organization that helped to raise over $44 million dollars across the country ($3.3 million here in Indiana!) and is determined to make a lasting impact within our community, we are also dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complex world of finance and make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals and aspirations. With a personalized approach, we strive to provide comprehensive solutions that address the unique needs and circumstances of each individual, couple, family or business we serve. As a fiduciary, we prioritize the best interests of our clients and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Our commitment to excellence sets us apart, and we take pride in building lasting relationships based on trust and transparency I bring a diverse range of experiences and a love for sports, literature, and the arts to my life and work. Within the central Indiana region, I run a small firm that doubles as a catalyst for positive impact within the community and resource for financial security – specializing in retirement planning, life insurance, investments, and other financial services for everyone. You can find/connect with me on: LinkedIn Facebook Business Facebook Personal Thank you for following Everyday Leaders. If you've been following us since 2018, we appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to add value to you if this is the first time you're finding us, welcome! We are a husband and wife media team based in Indianapolis, IN, and have been helping clients build their marketing and media strategies for over 20 years. I am your host, and my husband Joe, https://Joeakestudios.com, is the producer, director, and editor of the Everyday Leaders media programs, virtual and live event broadcasts, and more. We are excited to bring you a new focus on this platform, celebrating Everyday Business Leaders in our local community. Don't forget to subscribe to our YOUTUBE Channel, turn on notifications, and never miss an episode! Watch the full LIVE in-studio interview here from JPtheGeek Studio in Greenwood, Indiana: https://www.youtube.com/@MelahniAkeEverydayLeaders Everyday Business Leaders is a program dedicated to elevating our business leaders who inspire us to connect and thrive in our local community. A note from Melahni Ake, Founder of Everyday Leaders. When you visit EverydayLeaders.com, you will find valuable resources to become a better leader in your life, including. Women's Leadership Programs, including Top Floor Women Monthly Networking events, corporate workshops, and strategic business coaching services, discover personal development classes and products to develop yourself, including morning leadership devotionals and more. Order one of my inspirational books, sign up for classes, or pick up some gear in the leader store, listen to the Everyday Business Leaders podcast, apply to be a guest in our studio, or sponsor our show with your commercial advertisement. Contact us today at https://www.everydayleaders.com. #everydayleaderschangetheworld #interviews #inspiration #businessleaders #inspiration #jpthegeek #podcast #studiointerview #passiontopurpose #communitybuilding #collaboration #celebration #supportlocal #supportsmallbusiness #maxwellleadership #familybusiness #nonprofit #becauseone #podcast
Sponsored by Tecovas, Western Week reaches a thrilling finale! The Downtown Denver Partnership and Mayor Mike Johnston rolled out a new safety program this week in the form of 650 yellow-vested private security and nonprofit outreach workers. Could these new “ambassadors” be the signal of a safer downtown? And as homelessness and migrant arrivals take up city resources, will the mayor make good on his promise to prioritize the arts? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dissect all the stories that mattered to Denverites this week, plus a round of Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows. Justine talked about a four-part series in the Denver Post on alcoholism in Colorado. Bree mentioned at story from the Colorado Sun on artists moving to the San Luis Valley and an obituary for her great uncle, John Litz. Paul discussed the IRS and TABOR, this week's Rocky Flats news, and his five-part podcast series “Unclear Danger: The Colorado Story of Rocky Flats,” which he neglected to mention was supported by a Denver Arts & Venues grant — what a coincidence! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 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 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
,The Light Gate” welcomes researcher/author Christopher O'Brien. Date: January 8th, 2024 Episode: 37 Discussion: High Strangeness in the San Luis Valley About The Guest: Since 1992, Christopher O'Brien has investigated over one thousand paranormal events reported in the San Luis Valley--located in South-central Colorado/North Central New Mexico. Working with law enforcement officials, ex-military, ranchers, and an extensive network of skywatchers, from 1992 to 2002 he documented one of the most intense waves of unexplained activity ever reported from a single geographic region of North America. His ten-year investigation resulted in the three books of his "mysterious valley" trilogy, The Mysterious Valley, Enter the Valley, and Secrets of the Mysterious Valley. His meticulous field investigation of UFO reports, unexplained livestock deaths, Native American legends, cryptozoology, secret military activity and the folklore, found in the world's largest alpine valley, has produced one of the largest databases of unusual occurrences gathered from a single geographic region. He is currently working with a team of specialists installing a high-tech video surveillance and hard-data monitoring system in and around the San Luis Valley. His 2009 book Stalking the Tricksters distills his years of field investigation and research into an ingenious unified paranormal theory that is sure to create intense interest and controversy. His latest book Stalking the Herd (600 pages) is being called "The Bible of cattle mutilations books" and has received dozens of positive reviews. It is the first book on the subject that objectively examines the unexplained livestock death phenomenon—one of the most perplexing mysteries of our times. He has also written many articles for such publications as Open Minds, Fate Magazine, UFO Universe, UFO encounters and many others. (He's also an accomplished musician!) His media credits include “Coast to Coast,” and all the other major radio shows and podcasts. He has appeared on TV shows such as, Ancient Aliens, Weird or What, Conspiracy Theory and UFO Hunters. He has worked with such shows as, Sightings, Inside Edition, Extra, Showtime's Sci-Friday Chronicles, UFO Files, Exploring the Unknown, The Unexplained, Secrets of:, Profiles in Ufology, Unexplained Mysteries and so many others. He is the recipient of two EBE film festival awards. He also hosted his own regional Colorado/New Mexico radio show, Mysterious Valley Report (1996-1999), and published the bi-monthly Mysterious Valley Report (1993-2000.) He is a sought-after speaker at UFO conventions, so we are lucky to have him joining us tonight! LINKS: http://ourstrangeplanet.com https://www.facebook.com/christopher.obrien.3363
Street art, history and neighborhoods feature in the new podcast “Off the Walls,” from CPR and Denverite. Then, the fight to represent Colorado's Third Congressional District is intensifying. And, singer/songwriter Antonio Lopez draws inspiration from his Indigenous roots in the San Luis Valley.
Street art, history and neighborhoods feature in the new podcast “Off the Walls,” from CPR and Denverite. Then, the fight to represent Colorado's Third Congressional District is intensifying. And, singer/songwriter Antonio Lopez draws inspiration from his Indigenous roots in the San Luis Valley.
This is a real life story set in a vast land, the San Luis Valley of Colorado. It's a huge flat prairie flanked by mountains, and it's far off the beaten path. Author Ted Conover takes us there in this Desideratum. A desideratum is an essential thing and this story got me thinking about lots of essential things - like wide open spaces, what to do with a rattlesnake, the peace you find in silence, and the need for connection. Ted Conover is perhaps best known for spending a year as a prison guard at the maximum security prison Sing Sing in New York. The book he wrote about that experience was called Newjack and it earned a National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction and made Ted a Pulitzer Prize Finalist. His work expands and deepens what we think of as Journalism. He submerges himself in often uncomfortable situations and then takes readers along with him. Today we're talking about his latest immersive experience and book called Cheap Land Colorado. In his observation of small details side by side with his big picture perspectives, he paints a very complete picture with his own voice as narrator in your ear. I hope you enjoy getting to know Ted Conover as much as I have. I want to thank The Colorado Sun for shining their light on Ted's work. I listen to the Sun's podcast called The Daily Sun-Up, and every Sunday I check out their SunLit feature for author spotlights. Sunlit editor Kevin Simpson often talks to authors on The Daily Sun-ups Friday podcast. Check it out at coloradosun.com or wherever you're listening to this podcast. Ted will be in Denver for the Colorado Sun's SunFest ideas conference. Here's a link for tickets: https://coloradosun.com/sunfest/ And here's a link to the La Puente organization Ted volunteers with so you find out more about the good work they do. https://lapuentehome.org/ One more big thank you to the audio publisher Random House Audio for the excerpt from Cheap Land Colorado. And, as always, thank you for listening. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theresa-bakken/support
On episode 335 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are joined by author and researcher, Christopher O'Brien. From 1992 to 2002, O'Brien investigated over 1,000 paranormal events reported in the San Luis Valley—located in south-central Colorado/north-central New Mexico. Working with law enforcement officials, ex-military, ranchers and an extensive network of skywatchers, he documented what may have been the most intense wave of unexplained activity ever seen in a single region of North America. His ten-year investigation resulted in the three books of his “mysterious valley” trilogy" and a book titled, "Stalking the Herd", which examines our relationship with cattle and how this has manifested into the modern “cattle mutilation” mystery. We will discuss all of this and more on this special livestream episode where we'll also take your listener questions. Find Christopher O'Brien's work at: http://www.ourstrangeplanet.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesVenmo: @Ryan-SpraguePayPal: Sprague51@hotmail.comWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's new book: https://a.co/d/4KNQnM4Order Ryan's older book: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREOpening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2023 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sarah Jones and her husband Michael are fourth generation potato farmers in Hooper, CO. Their farm, Jones Farms Organics, is paving the way in the San Luis Valley (the nation's second largest fresh potato growing region in the U.S.) for regenerative and sustainable farming practices. In addition to helping manage day to day operations at the farm, Sarah has also recently transformed a local gas station and café into a neighborhood whole-food eatery, and helped to bring Marguerite Humeau's 160-acre earthwork “Orisons” to life by convincing her in-laws to donate an unused/fallow circle-pivot to the project. Sarah and I discuss the unexpected and humbling path life sets forth for us when we stop getting in our own way, and how fulfilled and grateful we feel to live in a place where dreams can so easily become a reality.Find the Jones Farm at JonesFarmsOrganics.com, and on InstagramSongs featured: “Without You” by Sjors Mans, “Appaloosa Bones” by Gregory Alan Isakov & “Happiness Does Not Wait” by Ólafur ArnaldsPoem that I read: “To Be Of Use” by Marge PiercySign up for the MGSW book club here.How to support the show:Rate, review and subscribe to the podcast on iTunesBecome a paid subscriber on SubstackVisit my website - AnyaKaats.com & Find me on Instagram Get full access to A Millennial's Guide to Saving the World at anyakaats.substack.com/subscribe
Lauren Boebert's fundraising lags Democratic challenger Adam Frisch | Rep. Yadira Caraveo (D-CO) raises $450K as her GOP challenger has yet to start fundraising | Anti-LGBTQ laws are being struck down around the country for violating First Amendment rights | Utah Supreme Court considers challenge to GOP gerrymandered Congressional map | Denver Mayor Mike Johnston declares a state of emergency around homelessness | Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Ziggy Marley, Mavis Staples, Robert Randolph Band play Vail on July 24.Song playsIntro by hostWelcome to High Country - politics in the American West. My name is Sean Diller; regular listeners might know me from Heartland Pod's Talking Politics, every Monday.Support this show and all the work in the Heartland POD universe by going to heartlandpod.com and clicking the link for Patreon, or go to Patreon.com/HeartlandPod to sign up. Membership starts at $1/month, with even more extra shows and special access at the higher levels. No matter the level you choose, your membership helps us create these independent shows as we work together to change the conversation.Alright! Let's get into it: COLORADO NEWSLINE:Lauren Boebert's Democratic challenger raised 3x what she did in the 2nd quarterBY: SARA WILSON - JULY 17, 2023 4:07 PMDemocrat Adam Frisch raised over three times what Republican incumbent Rep. Lauren Boebert did over the last three months in Colorado's 3rd Congressional District, as the seat appears likely to be a competitive — and expensive — race in 2024.In 2022, Boebert beat Frisch for a second term by 546 votes. Both candidates are actively fundraising with 16 months until a general election rematch.Frisch reported raising about $2.6 million during the most recent campaign finance reporting period, which ran from April to June, according to reports filed with the Federal Election Commission. The former Aspen City Council member spent about $1.4 million and has about $2.5 million in cash on hand.During his 2022 campaign, Frisch raised about $6.7 million, including personal loans, and spent about $6.4 million.Boebert reported raising over $800,000 from April to June. She spent a bit over $400,000 and has about $1.4 million in the bank.In 2022, Boebert raised almost $8 million and spent about $7.4 million.Both candidates brought in a large amount of donations under $200 that don't need to be individually listed on reports — about 66% of Frisch's cash and 47% of Boebert's.Frisch listed about 1,400 individual donations from Colorado residents for a total of about $280,000. Boebert listed about 600 donations from people in Colorado, raising about $150,000.Both Boebert and Frisch spent heavily on advertising during the quarter. Frisch reported spending over $600,000 on contact list acquisition and digital advertising and another $290,000 on direct mail. Boebert spent $52,000 on digital advertising and over $100,000 on direct mail. She reported spending over $28,000 on campaign-related travel during the quarter.The 3rd Congressional District encompasses the Western Slope, San Luis Valley and swings east to Pueblo County.In other districts - Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo in the 8th Congressional District raised about $450,000 during the quarter. She spent about $120,000 and has about $625,000 in cash on hand.Republican Scott James has announced his candidacy but has not reported any raising or spending so far this cycle.The National Republican Congressional Committee listed the district as a target race for 2024, priming it for an influx of national party attention and resources. At the same time, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will also likely pour money into the race, listing Caraveo as a potential vulnerable freshman member.The 8th Congressional District includes Denver's northeast suburbs into Weld County.ARIZONA MIRROR:.Anti-LGBTQ laws in the US are getting struck down for limiting free speechDR. MARK SATTAJULY 13, 2023 7:11 AMAnti-LGBTQ laws passed in 2023 included measures to deny gender-affirming care to trans children. Photo by Mario Tama | Getty Images via The ConversationNearly 500 anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced in state legislatures in the U.S. in 2023. Many of those bills seek to reduce or eliminate gender-affirming care for transgender minors or to ban drag performances in places where minors could view them.Most of those bills have not become law. But many of those that have did not survive legal scrutiny when challenged in court.A notable feature of these rulings is how many rely on the First Amendment's protection of free speech. In several of the decisions, judges used harsh language to describe what they deemed to be assaults on a fundamental American right.Here's a summary of some of the most notable legal outcomes:Drag performancesSeveral states passed laws aimed at restricting drag performances. These laws were quickly challenged in court. So far, judges have sided with those challenging these laws.On June 2, 2023, a federal judge permanently enjoined Tennessee's attempt to limit drag performances by restricting “adult entertainment” featuring “male or female impersonators.” When a law is permanently enjoined, it can no longer be enforced unless an appeals court reverses the decision.The judge ruled on broad grounds that Tennessee's law violated freedom of speech, writing that it “reeks with constitutional maladies of vagueness and overbreadth fatal to statutes that regulate First Amendment rights.” He also ruled that the law was passed for the “impermissible purpose of chilling constitutionally-protected speech” and that it engaged in viewpoint discrimination, which occurs when a law regulates speech from a disfavored perspective.Three weeks later, a federal judge granted a temporary injunction against Florida's anti-drag law on similar grounds.And in Utah, a federal judge required the city of St. George to grant a permit for a drag show, ruling that the city had applied an ordinance in a discriminatory manner in order to prevent the family-friendly drag show from happening. As in the other cases, the judge's ruling was based on First Amendment precedent.Gender-affirming careOn June 20, 2023, a federal judge permanently enjoined an Arkansas law, passed in 2021 over the veto of then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson, preventing transgender minors from receiving various kinds of gender-affirming medical care, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy.The judge held that Arkansas' law violated the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection clause – which ensures laws are applied equally regardless of social characteristics like race or gender – because the law discriminated on the basis of sex.Arkansas claimed its law was passed in order to protect children and to safeguard medical ethics. The judge agreed that these were legitimate state interests, but rejected Arkansas' claim that its law furthered those ends.The judge also held that Arkansas' law violated the First Amendment free speech rights of medical care providers because the law would have prevented them from providing referrals for gender transition medical treatment.During June 2023, federal judges in Florida and Indiana granted temporary injunctions against enforcement of similar state laws. This means that these laws cannot be enforced until a full trial is conducted – and only if that trial results in a ruling that these laws are constitutional.Free speech for the LGBTQ communityIn striking down these unconstitutional state laws on First Amendment grounds, many judges went out of their way to reinforce the point that freedom of speech protects views about sexual orientation and gender identity that may be unpopular in conservative areas.In his ruling on the St. George, Utah case, U.S. District Judge David Nuffer stressed that “Public spaces are public spaces. Public spaces are not private spaces. Public spaces are not majority spaces. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution ensures that all citizens, popular or not, majority or minority, conventional or unconventional, have access to public spaces for public expression.”Nuffer also noted that “Public officials and the city governments in which they serve are trustees of constitutional rights for all citizens.” Protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens includes protecting the constitutional rights of members of the LGBTQ community and of other gender-nonconforming people.Free speech rights also extend to those who want to use speech in order to help promote the well-being of LGBTQ people. In ruling that Arkansas' law violated the First Amendment, Judge Jay Moody stated that the state law “prevents doctors from informing their patients where gender transition treatment may be available” and that it “effectively bans their ability to speak to patients about these treatments because the physician is not allowed to tell their patient where it is available.” For this reason, he held that the law violated the First Amendment.As additional anti-LGBTQ state laws are challenged in court, judges are likely to continue to use the First Amendment to show how such laws fail to respect Americans' fundamental free speech rights.This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The ConversationNEW YORK TIMES:Utah G.O.P.'s Map Carved Up Salt Lake Democrats to dilute their power. Is that legal?The Utah Supreme Court heard arguments on Tuesday over whether a congressional map drawn to dilute Democratic votes was subject to judicial review, or a political issue beyond its reach.By Michael WinesJuly 11, 2023Last week, Utah's Supreme Court justices appeared skeptical of arguments put forward by the State Legislature that it had essentially unreviewable power to draw a map of the state's congressional districts that diluted the votes of Democrats.The Republican-controlled Legislature approved a map in 2021 that carved up Democratic-leaning Salt Lake County, the state's most populous county, and scattered its voters among the state's four U.S. House districts, all of which were predominantly Republican.The lawmakers acted after repealing a law — enacted by Utah voters in a 2018 ballot initiative — that outlawed political maps unduly favoring a candidate or political party.The Legislature's map was widely acknowledged at the time to be a partisan gerrymander, including by the Republican governor, Spencer J. Cox, who noted at the time that both parties often produced skewed maps.The question before the justices on Tuesday was whether the state's courts could hear a lawsuit challenging the Legislature's map, or whether partisan maps were a political issue beyond their jurisdiction. It was not clear when the court would hand down a ruling.Much of Tuesday's hearing — which was streamed on the state court's website — focused on the Legislature's repeal of the 2018 ballot initiative, given the provision in the State Constitution that all political power resides with the people and that they have the right “to alter and reform” their government.Mark Gaber is a lawyer for the Campaign Legal Center, an advocacy law firm based in Washington that represents the plaintiffs in the case before the court. He said, “the Legislature has for decades engaged in this anti-democratic distortion of the process. And the people said: ‘We have had enough. We are going to alter and reform our government and recognize that we hold the political power in this state.'”Taylor Meehan, a lawyer with the law firm Consovoy McCarthy who is representing the Legislature, said Utah citizens had many ways to exercise political influence even after the repeal. “The people can advocate for a constitutional amendment,” Ms. Meehan said. “The people also can elect and lobby and propose ideas to their Legislature. The Legislature will still be politically accountable for whether they vote maps up or down.”Chief Justice Matthew Durrant questioned the claim. “That seems like an empty promise,” he said. “Ultimately, under the system you're suggesting, the Legislature is always going to have the final say.”In court filings, legislators said that the State Constitution gave them exclusive authority to draw political maps, and that the plaintiffs were trying to impose “illusory standards of political equality” on the mapmaking process.With the U.S. Supreme Court having barred federal courts from deciding partisan gerrymander cases, state courts are becoming a crucial battleground for opponents of skewed maps. Joshua A. Douglas, an expert on state constitution protections for voting at the University of Kentucky, said the growing body of legal precedents in state gerrymandering cases was important because many state constitutions shared similar protections for elections and voters, often derived from one another.Courts in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Alaska, New York and, last week, New Mexico have ruled that partisan gerrymanders can be unconstitutional. So have courts in Ohio and North Carolina. However, the Ohio court proved unable to force the legislature to comply with its rulings, and the North Carolina decision was overturned in April after elections shifted the court's majority from Democratic to Republican.The Kentucky Supreme Court will hear a challenge to that state's congressional and legislative maps in September. And a lawsuit contesting an extreme Republican gerrymander of the Wisconsin Legislature is widely expected after an April election gave liberals a majority on the state's high court.Perhaps the closest analogy to the Utah gerrymander is in Nashville, where the latest congressional map by the Republican-led state legislature divided the city's former Democratic-majority U.S. House district among three heavily Republican districts. Democrats have not challenged the map in state courts, presumably because they see little prospect of winning in a State Supreme Court dominated by Republican appointees.In Utah's case, however, the State Supreme Court's five justices do not have reputations for bending easily to political winds. They are chosen through a merit-based selection process.The Utah plaintiffs — the state chapter of the League of Women Voters, the advocacy group Mormon Women for Ethical Government, and a handful of Utah voters —say that the gerrymandered map ignores a host of state constitutional provisions, including guarantees of free speech, free association and equal protection — provisions that they say should be read as prohibiting partisan maps.Republican legislators contend that they had the right to repeal the 2018 redistricting law, just as they could any other state law. And they say that the plaintiffs' aim is no different than their own: to tilt the playing field in their side's favor.But Katie Wright, the executive director of Better Boundaries — the group that led the effort to pass the redistricting law and that is backing the lawsuit — argued that there was a difference between the two. She noted that the Utah Legislature's disclosure of its new maps in 2021 sparked an unusually large public outcry that continues even today.“The reason we have this gerrymandered map is to keep the people who are in power in power,” she said. “But Utahns have not given up.”Michael Wines writes about voting and other election-related issues. Since joining The Times in 1988, he has covered the Justice Department, the White House, Congress, Russia, southern Africa, China and various other topics. More about Michael WinesA version of this article appears in print on July 12, 2023, Section A, Page 16 of the New York edition with the headline: Utah's Supreme Court Weighs State Gerrymandering Case. Order Reprints | Today's Paper | COLORADO SUN:Denver's new mayor declares state of emergency on homelessness, sets goal of housing 1,000 unsheltered people by end of 2023Elliott Wenzler9:54 AM MDT on Jul 18, 2023In his first full day as Denver's new mayor, Mike Johnston declared a state of emergency around homelessness and announced that he plans to house 1,000 unsheltered people by the end of the year.Johnston said he will tour 78 neighborhoods across the city to accomplish his goal and that his staff will work with landlords, property owners and hotels to find housing availability. His administration is also looking at nearly 200 public plots to place tiny home communities where people experiencing homelessness can be housed.“This is what we think is the most important crisis the city is facing,” Johnston said at a news conference at the Denver's City and County Building. “We took the oath yesterday to commit to taking on this problem.”Homelessness has been an increasingly polarizing issue in Denver and it was a major focus on Johnston's mayoral campaign. He vowed to create tiny home communities on city-owned property as a way to get people off the street.Johnston said the state of emergency declaration will help the city access state and “possibly” federal funding. He also said it would allow the city to more quickly work through construction, renovation and permitting processes for new housing units.“And it sends a real message to all the rest of the state that we are deeply focused on this. We have real evidence to support that housing first as a strategy will get the great majority of people access to the support they need to stay housed and then access follow up resources,” he said. Johnston's inaugural address Monday was centered on the theme of what he called the “dream of Denver.” He mentioned housing costs, safety, mental illness, addiction and reimagining downtown as top priorities.Johnston said “Those of us on this stage took an oath today. But for us to succeed, every Denverite must take their own oath- an oath to dream, to serve, and to deliver. To dream (of) a Denver bold enough to include all of us. To serve our city above ourselves. To march on shoulder to shoulder, undeterred by failure, until we deliver results.”And your unsolicited concert pick of the week, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue! With special guests Ziggy Marley, Mavis Staples, and the Robert Randolph Band. Monday July 24 at the Gerald Ford Amphitheatre in Vail. I've seen every one of these acts, and I'll just any one of them would be worth the trip on their own. Welp, that's it for me! From Denver I'm Sean Diller. Original reporting for the stories in today's show comes from Colorado Sun, New York Times, Colorado Newsline, Arizona Mirror, and Denver's Westword.Thank you for listening! See you next time.
Lauren Boebert's fundraising lags Democratic challenger Adam Frisch | Rep. Yadira Caraveo (D-CO) raises $450K as her GOP challenger has yet to start fundraising | Anti-LGBTQ laws are being struck down around the country for violating First Amendment rights | Utah Supreme Court considers challenge to GOP gerrymandered Congressional map | Denver Mayor Mike Johnston declares a state of emergency around homelessness | Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Ziggy Marley, Mavis Staples, Robert Randolph Band play Vail on July 24.Song playsIntro by hostWelcome to High Country - politics in the American West. My name is Sean Diller; regular listeners might know me from Heartland Pod's Talking Politics, every Monday.Support this show and all the work in the Heartland POD universe by going to heartlandpod.com and clicking the link for Patreon, or go to Patreon.com/HeartlandPod to sign up. Membership starts at $1/month, with even more extra shows and special access at the higher levels. No matter the level you choose, your membership helps us create these independent shows as we work together to change the conversation.Alright! Let's get into it: COLORADO NEWSLINE:Lauren Boebert's Democratic challenger raised 3x what she did in the 2nd quarterBY: SARA WILSON - JULY 17, 2023 4:07 PMDemocrat Adam Frisch raised over three times what Republican incumbent Rep. Lauren Boebert did over the last three months in Colorado's 3rd Congressional District, as the seat appears likely to be a competitive — and expensive — race in 2024.In 2022, Boebert beat Frisch for a second term by 546 votes. Both candidates are actively fundraising with 16 months until a general election rematch.Frisch reported raising about $2.6 million during the most recent campaign finance reporting period, which ran from April to June, according to reports filed with the Federal Election Commission. The former Aspen City Council member spent about $1.4 million and has about $2.5 million in cash on hand.During his 2022 campaign, Frisch raised about $6.7 million, including personal loans, and spent about $6.4 million.Boebert reported raising over $800,000 from April to June. She spent a bit over $400,000 and has about $1.4 million in the bank.In 2022, Boebert raised almost $8 million and spent about $7.4 million.Both candidates brought in a large amount of donations under $200 that don't need to be individually listed on reports — about 66% of Frisch's cash and 47% of Boebert's.Frisch listed about 1,400 individual donations from Colorado residents for a total of about $280,000. Boebert listed about 600 donations from people in Colorado, raising about $150,000.Both Boebert and Frisch spent heavily on advertising during the quarter. Frisch reported spending over $600,000 on contact list acquisition and digital advertising and another $290,000 on direct mail. Boebert spent $52,000 on digital advertising and over $100,000 on direct mail. She reported spending over $28,000 on campaign-related travel during the quarter.The 3rd Congressional District encompasses the Western Slope, San Luis Valley and swings east to Pueblo County.In other districts - Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo in the 8th Congressional District raised about $450,000 during the quarter. She spent about $120,000 and has about $625,000 in cash on hand.Republican Scott James has announced his candidacy but has not reported any raising or spending so far this cycle.The National Republican Congressional Committee listed the district as a target race for 2024, priming it for an influx of national party attention and resources. At the same time, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will also likely pour money into the race, listing Caraveo as a potential vulnerable freshman member.The 8th Congressional District includes Denver's northeast suburbs into Weld County.ARIZONA MIRROR:.Anti-LGBTQ laws in the US are getting struck down for limiting free speechDR. MARK SATTAJULY 13, 2023 7:11 AMAnti-LGBTQ laws passed in 2023 included measures to deny gender-affirming care to trans children. Photo by Mario Tama | Getty Images via The ConversationNearly 500 anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced in state legislatures in the U.S. in 2023. Many of those bills seek to reduce or eliminate gender-affirming care for transgender minors or to ban drag performances in places where minors could view them.Most of those bills have not become law. But many of those that have did not survive legal scrutiny when challenged in court.A notable feature of these rulings is how many rely on the First Amendment's protection of free speech. In several of the decisions, judges used harsh language to describe what they deemed to be assaults on a fundamental American right.Here's a summary of some of the most notable legal outcomes:Drag performancesSeveral states passed laws aimed at restricting drag performances. These laws were quickly challenged in court. So far, judges have sided with those challenging these laws.On June 2, 2023, a federal judge permanently enjoined Tennessee's attempt to limit drag performances by restricting “adult entertainment” featuring “male or female impersonators.” When a law is permanently enjoined, it can no longer be enforced unless an appeals court reverses the decision.The judge ruled on broad grounds that Tennessee's law violated freedom of speech, writing that it “reeks with constitutional maladies of vagueness and overbreadth fatal to statutes that regulate First Amendment rights.” He also ruled that the law was passed for the “impermissible purpose of chilling constitutionally-protected speech” and that it engaged in viewpoint discrimination, which occurs when a law regulates speech from a disfavored perspective.Three weeks later, a federal judge granted a temporary injunction against Florida's anti-drag law on similar grounds.And in Utah, a federal judge required the city of St. George to grant a permit for a drag show, ruling that the city had applied an ordinance in a discriminatory manner in order to prevent the family-friendly drag show from happening. As in the other cases, the judge's ruling was based on First Amendment precedent.Gender-affirming careOn June 20, 2023, a federal judge permanently enjoined an Arkansas law, passed in 2021 over the veto of then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson, preventing transgender minors from receiving various kinds of gender-affirming medical care, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy.The judge held that Arkansas' law violated the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection clause – which ensures laws are applied equally regardless of social characteristics like race or gender – because the law discriminated on the basis of sex.Arkansas claimed its law was passed in order to protect children and to safeguard medical ethics. The judge agreed that these were legitimate state interests, but rejected Arkansas' claim that its law furthered those ends.The judge also held that Arkansas' law violated the First Amendment free speech rights of medical care providers because the law would have prevented them from providing referrals for gender transition medical treatment.During June 2023, federal judges in Florida and Indiana granted temporary injunctions against enforcement of similar state laws. This means that these laws cannot be enforced until a full trial is conducted – and only if that trial results in a ruling that these laws are constitutional.Free speech for the LGBTQ communityIn striking down these unconstitutional state laws on First Amendment grounds, many judges went out of their way to reinforce the point that freedom of speech protects views about sexual orientation and gender identity that may be unpopular in conservative areas.In his ruling on the St. George, Utah case, U.S. District Judge David Nuffer stressed that “Public spaces are public spaces. Public spaces are not private spaces. Public spaces are not majority spaces. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution ensures that all citizens, popular or not, majority or minority, conventional or unconventional, have access to public spaces for public expression.”Nuffer also noted that “Public officials and the city governments in which they serve are trustees of constitutional rights for all citizens.” Protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens includes protecting the constitutional rights of members of the LGBTQ community and of other gender-nonconforming people.Free speech rights also extend to those who want to use speech in order to help promote the well-being of LGBTQ people. In ruling that Arkansas' law violated the First Amendment, Judge Jay Moody stated that the state law “prevents doctors from informing their patients where gender transition treatment may be available” and that it “effectively bans their ability to speak to patients about these treatments because the physician is not allowed to tell their patient where it is available.” For this reason, he held that the law violated the First Amendment.As additional anti-LGBTQ state laws are challenged in court, judges are likely to continue to use the First Amendment to show how such laws fail to respect Americans' fundamental free speech rights.This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The ConversationNEW YORK TIMES:Utah G.O.P.'s Map Carved Up Salt Lake Democrats to dilute their power. Is that legal?The Utah Supreme Court heard arguments on Tuesday over whether a congressional map drawn to dilute Democratic votes was subject to judicial review, or a political issue beyond its reach.By Michael WinesJuly 11, 2023Last week, Utah's Supreme Court justices appeared skeptical of arguments put forward by the State Legislature that it had essentially unreviewable power to draw a map of the state's congressional districts that diluted the votes of Democrats.The Republican-controlled Legislature approved a map in 2021 that carved up Democratic-leaning Salt Lake County, the state's most populous county, and scattered its voters among the state's four U.S. House districts, all of which were predominantly Republican.The lawmakers acted after repealing a law — enacted by Utah voters in a 2018 ballot initiative — that outlawed political maps unduly favoring a candidate or political party.The Legislature's map was widely acknowledged at the time to be a partisan gerrymander, including by the Republican governor, Spencer J. Cox, who noted at the time that both parties often produced skewed maps.The question before the justices on Tuesday was whether the state's courts could hear a lawsuit challenging the Legislature's map, or whether partisan maps were a political issue beyond their jurisdiction. It was not clear when the court would hand down a ruling.Much of Tuesday's hearing — which was streamed on the state court's website — focused on the Legislature's repeal of the 2018 ballot initiative, given the provision in the State Constitution that all political power resides with the people and that they have the right “to alter and reform” their government.Mark Gaber is a lawyer for the Campaign Legal Center, an advocacy law firm based in Washington that represents the plaintiffs in the case before the court. He said, “the Legislature has for decades engaged in this anti-democratic distortion of the process. And the people said: ‘We have had enough. We are going to alter and reform our government and recognize that we hold the political power in this state.'”Taylor Meehan, a lawyer with the law firm Consovoy McCarthy who is representing the Legislature, said Utah citizens had many ways to exercise political influence even after the repeal. “The people can advocate for a constitutional amendment,” Ms. Meehan said. “The people also can elect and lobby and propose ideas to their Legislature. The Legislature will still be politically accountable for whether they vote maps up or down.”Chief Justice Matthew Durrant questioned the claim. “That seems like an empty promise,” he said. “Ultimately, under the system you're suggesting, the Legislature is always going to have the final say.”In court filings, legislators said that the State Constitution gave them exclusive authority to draw political maps, and that the plaintiffs were trying to impose “illusory standards of political equality” on the mapmaking process.With the U.S. Supreme Court having barred federal courts from deciding partisan gerrymander cases, state courts are becoming a crucial battleground for opponents of skewed maps. Joshua A. Douglas, an expert on state constitution protections for voting at the University of Kentucky, said the growing body of legal precedents in state gerrymandering cases was important because many state constitutions shared similar protections for elections and voters, often derived from one another.Courts in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Alaska, New York and, last week, New Mexico have ruled that partisan gerrymanders can be unconstitutional. So have courts in Ohio and North Carolina. However, the Ohio court proved unable to force the legislature to comply with its rulings, and the North Carolina decision was overturned in April after elections shifted the court's majority from Democratic to Republican.The Kentucky Supreme Court will hear a challenge to that state's congressional and legislative maps in September. And a lawsuit contesting an extreme Republican gerrymander of the Wisconsin Legislature is widely expected after an April election gave liberals a majority on the state's high court.Perhaps the closest analogy to the Utah gerrymander is in Nashville, where the latest congressional map by the Republican-led state legislature divided the city's former Democratic-majority U.S. House district among three heavily Republican districts. Democrats have not challenged the map in state courts, presumably because they see little prospect of winning in a State Supreme Court dominated by Republican appointees.In Utah's case, however, the State Supreme Court's five justices do not have reputations for bending easily to political winds. They are chosen through a merit-based selection process.The Utah plaintiffs — the state chapter of the League of Women Voters, the advocacy group Mormon Women for Ethical Government, and a handful of Utah voters —say that the gerrymandered map ignores a host of state constitutional provisions, including guarantees of free speech, free association and equal protection — provisions that they say should be read as prohibiting partisan maps.Republican legislators contend that they had the right to repeal the 2018 redistricting law, just as they could any other state law. And they say that the plaintiffs' aim is no different than their own: to tilt the playing field in their side's favor.But Katie Wright, the executive director of Better Boundaries — the group that led the effort to pass the redistricting law and that is backing the lawsuit — argued that there was a difference between the two. She noted that the Utah Legislature's disclosure of its new maps in 2021 sparked an unusually large public outcry that continues even today.“The reason we have this gerrymandered map is to keep the people who are in power in power,” she said. “But Utahns have not given up.”Michael Wines writes about voting and other election-related issues. Since joining The Times in 1988, he has covered the Justice Department, the White House, Congress, Russia, southern Africa, China and various other topics. More about Michael WinesA version of this article appears in print on July 12, 2023, Section A, Page 16 of the New York edition with the headline: Utah's Supreme Court Weighs State Gerrymandering Case. Order Reprints | Today's Paper | COLORADO SUN:Denver's new mayor declares state of emergency on homelessness, sets goal of housing 1,000 unsheltered people by end of 2023Elliott Wenzler9:54 AM MDT on Jul 18, 2023In his first full day as Denver's new mayor, Mike Johnston declared a state of emergency around homelessness and announced that he plans to house 1,000 unsheltered people by the end of the year.Johnston said he will tour 78 neighborhoods across the city to accomplish his goal and that his staff will work with landlords, property owners and hotels to find housing availability. His administration is also looking at nearly 200 public plots to place tiny home communities where people experiencing homelessness can be housed.“This is what we think is the most important crisis the city is facing,” Johnston said at a news conference at the Denver's City and County Building. “We took the oath yesterday to commit to taking on this problem.”Homelessness has been an increasingly polarizing issue in Denver and it was a major focus on Johnston's mayoral campaign. He vowed to create tiny home communities on city-owned property as a way to get people off the street.Johnston said the state of emergency declaration will help the city access state and “possibly” federal funding. He also said it would allow the city to more quickly work through construction, renovation and permitting processes for new housing units.“And it sends a real message to all the rest of the state that we are deeply focused on this. We have real evidence to support that housing first as a strategy will get the great majority of people access to the support they need to stay housed and then access follow up resources,” he said. Johnston's inaugural address Monday was centered on the theme of what he called the “dream of Denver.” He mentioned housing costs, safety, mental illness, addiction and reimagining downtown as top priorities.Johnston said “Those of us on this stage took an oath today. But for us to succeed, every Denverite must take their own oath- an oath to dream, to serve, and to deliver. To dream (of) a Denver bold enough to include all of us. To serve our city above ourselves. To march on shoulder to shoulder, undeterred by failure, until we deliver results.”And your unsolicited concert pick of the week, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue! With special guests Ziggy Marley, Mavis Staples, and the Robert Randolph Band. Monday July 24 at the Gerald Ford Amphitheatre in Vail. I've seen every one of these acts, and I'll just any one of them would be worth the trip on their own. Welp, that's it for me! From Denver I'm Sean Diller. Original reporting for the stories in today's show comes from Colorado Sun, New York Times, Colorado Newsline, Arizona Mirror, and Denver's Westword.Thank you for listening! See you next time.
It's Friday and we're talking about all the local stories that grabbed our attention this week — aka, the election. Mike Johnston is officially Denver's mayor-elect, and he made a lot of promises along the campaign trail, so which ones will he keep? Plus Casa Bonita gets a write-up in a little paper called the New York Times, Governor Jared Polis vetoes a housing bill, and the last drive-in theater in the Denver metro is closing. Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by host Bree Davies and founder of investigative news outlet The Lever and Academy Award nominee David Sirota for a rundown of everything Denver's talking about. As always, stick around until the end for a round-up of the coolest events happening this weekend in the Mile High, curated by Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia. If you haven't read the Times' take on Casa Bonita, here's a link. Paul talked about Colorado's changing drive-in movie theaters, including this one in the San Luis Valley, and predatory towing. Bree mentioned about a story from Nate Minor in Denverite about RTD's bad bus stop management. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein! P.S. CONGRATS ON GETTING MARRIED, ANDY!!!!!! Here are links to the weekend events Peyton recommended: Lighthouse Writers Workshop Grand Opening Summer Farm Fest The Taylor Swift Party Denver Chalk Festival (Watch out for the weather forecast though!) Five Points Jazz Festival For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 or by visiting our website. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Council badboyboards Energize Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
George Whitten, along with his wife Julie, own Blue Range Ranch (also known as San Juan Ranch) located in the high desert of Colorado's San Luis Valley. Originally pastoralists, George and his family have been ranching on the same land for well over a century, and have been practicing regenerative agriculture and holistic land management since 1893, long before either of those terms even existed. Sam Schmidt, a New York City-area native, joined the ranch in 2020 through an apprentice program, and is now the Assistant Ranch Manager, alongside his partner Noelle. George, Sam and I speak about the rise and fall of industrial agriculture, the challenges of making a living from land stewardship, what it means to bridge the divide between environmentalism and agriculture, and how taking a regenerative and holistic approach to the land also means applying those same principles to our relationships and communities.Find Blue Range Ranch at bluerangeranch.com, on Instagram, and learn more about the ranch's apprenticeship program here.For those local to Crestone and the SLV, check out my article about Blue Range Ranch in the June edition of The Crestone Eagle.Songs featured: “El Jardin” by Hermanos Gutiérrez & “The Universe” by Gregory Alan IsakovSign up for the MGSW book club here.Join myself and Christopher Ryan + Cameron and Melayne Shayne in Montana this summer for the Sex at Dawn retreat, August 20-25. To apply, click here.Come hang out at the Crestone Energy Fair September 16th & 17th! Here is the link for more info.How to support the show:Rate, review and subscribe to the podcast on iTunesBecome a paid subscriber on SubstackVisit my website - AnyaKaats.com & Find me on InstagramA Millennial's Guide to Saving the World is a reader and listener-supported project. If you find this content valuable, and have the means to contribute financially, please consider becoming a paid supporter for only $5/month and get access to bonus content, a community book club, and more: anyakaats.substack.com Get full access to A Millennial's Guide to Saving the World at anyakaats.substack.com/subscribe
Back in September of 2022, I held the first annual Strenuous Life Retreat at the renowned Zapata Ranch in Colorado's San Luis Valley. The retreat consisted of five days of adventure and education inspired by Theodore Roosevelt's well-known commitment to living “the Strenuous Life.” We hiked high into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, rode horses in Great Sand Dunes National Park, and enjoyed world-class meals. And each afternoon, we enjoyed facilitated conversations about land stewardship, conservation, and regenerative agriculture. This episode is a recording of one of those conversations. - I was honored to be joined by conservation veteran Nancy Fishbein, who serves as Director of Resilient Lands for the Colorado Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. Nancy has been a long-standing leader in the Western conservation community, so we were all honored that she took time out of her full schedule to join us and share some stories and hard-earned wisdom. The Zapata Ranch is owned by the Nature Conservancy and managed by Ranchlands, so Nancy has a unique insight into the history of the ranch, as well as the importance of conservation in the San Luis Valley. - We recorded this conversation at the ranch's education center, one afternoon after a morning of horseback riding. The first half consists of me asking the questions, and the second half consists of questions from the retreat participants. We cover everything from the history of the Zapata Ranch to the establishment of Great Sand Dunes National Park, which adjoins the ranch to the north. We talk about the conservation bison herd that calls the ranch home, and some of the ongoing challenges in the San Luis Valley created by water speculation and development. We discuss how mineral rights development can coexist with conservation, the protection of biodiversity on ranches, how TNC and the National Park Service work together, and much more. As you'll hear, everyone in attendance was super engaged and curious about Nancy's work, and it showed in the range of interesting and thoughtful questions. - I hope this episode will give you a bit of insight into the types of conversations we had at the 2022 Retreat and the kind of conversations you can expect in 2023 and beyond. Colorado is blessed to have so many committed conservationists like Nancy who devote their time and energy to protecting and stewarding these spectacular landscapes, and I can't thank Nancy enough for taking the time to join us. - If you're interested in joining me for the 2023 Retreat, as of this recording, there are still a few spots left. You can click here to learn more and reserve your spot. Thanks for listening, and I hope you enjoy! --- Nancy Fishbein Zapata Ranch Strenuous Life Retreat Full episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/nancy-fishbein/ --- SUPPORT M&P: Become a Patreon supporter today! --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:30 - A quick intro to Nancy 5:30 - The story of the Education Center on Zapata Ranch 7:00 - How Zapata Ranch first got onto TNC's radar 10:00 - How TNC goes about acquiring properties like Zapata Ranch 12:15 - Why the previous owner of Zapata Ranch did not charge TNC full fair market value for the property 13:30 - The importance of relationships in TNC's work 15:30 - What happened after TNC acquired Zapata Ranch 18:15 - Explaining a conservation easement 20:00 - Why the bison herd on Zapata Ranch were such a focal point of TNC's conservation work there 22:15 - Why TNC has chosen to hold onto Zapata Ranch as an owner for so long 25:45 - How TNC works with various levels of government agencies 27:30 - Nancy's biggest concern for the San Luis Valley 29:00 - The most recent scheme to remove water from the San Luis Valley 31:45 - Audience questions begin 32:00 - Whether or not Nancy wished that TNC had done something different in their acquisition of Zapata Ranch 32:45 - Nancy's surprises and lessons learned about Zapata 34:30 - Why an easement cannot be put on San Luis Valley's aquifer 36:15 - TNC's role in the establishment of Baca Wildlife Refuge and the Great Sand Dunes National Park 40:45 - The distinction between a national park and a national monument 41:30 - How the TNC navigated purchasing land that was managed by a private company (Rocky Mountain Bison) but on leased state land 42:30 - Exploring the potential causality between water export schemes in the San Luis Valley and the establishment of the Great Sand Dunes National Park 44:00 - Whether or not there remains the appetite for bipartisan action, such as the kind that led to the creation of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, in our current political climate 45:00 - Exploring TNC's support of agriculture as a conservation service 43:30 - Whether or not TNC deals with agricultural leases 51:30 - How easements impact mineral and mining rights on a property 53:30 - How fracking might complicate conservation easements, and whether or not easements are a successful tool for reducing oil and gas development 55:45 - How TNC measures success in its conservation work and the preservation of biodiversity on a property, and how they respond to and act on those measurements 1:00:55 - What TNC is working on right now in Colorado --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts
Help spread the darkness! VOTE FOR THIS EPISODE at https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/mvjsnkbz – you can vote up to 3X per day! Find Weird Darkness in your favorite podcast app at https://weirddarkness.com/listen. PLEASE SHARE WEIRD DARKNESS® in your social media and with others who loves paranormal stories, true crime, monsters, or unsolved mysteries like you do!IN THIS EPISODE: We've had several episodes before about mysterious locations that are host to strange, paranormal activity. Skinwalker Ranch, for example, or The Bennington Triangle, or even the harsh terrain of Alaska. Perhaps one of the locations that appears to persistently slip under the radar is the San Luis Valley in Colorado. The region is home to very much the same variety of paranormal activity as other apparent hot spots. UFO sightings here are in abundance, for example. As are cases of cattle mutilation, sightings of strange creatures, and even alien abduction. In short, the San Luis Valley could be one of the most interesting locations in the world.SOURCES AND ESSENTIAL WEB LINKS…“The Paranormal, Extraterrestrial, and Otherworldly Explanations for Cattle Mutilations” by Marcus Lowth for UFOInsight.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/66a64hu5, https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/vhykeezp = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =Weird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library. Background music provided by Alibi Music Library, EpidemicSound and/or StoryBlocks with paid license. Music from Shadows Symphony (https://tinyurl.com/yyrv987t), Midnight Syndicate (http://amzn.to/2BYCoXZ) Kevin MacLeod (https://tinyurl.com/y2v7fgbu), Tony Longworth (https://tinyurl.com/y2nhnbt7), and Nicolas Gasparini (https://tinyurl.com/lnqpfs8) is used with permission of the artists.= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =(Over time links seen above may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = ="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =WeirdDarkness™ - is a production and trademark of Marlar House Productions. © 2023, Weird Darkness.= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =TRANSCRIPT: https://weirddarkness.com/archives/15385
Today's stories include voices on the wind, universal confirmation, memorable engagements, San Luis Valley weirdness and overstaying your welcome. Outsiders Only bonus stories available on Patreon for Apple Subscribers! We love our National Parks and we know you do too but when you're out there, remember to enjoy the view but watch your back. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe from wherever you're listening to NPAD! Become part of our Outsider family on Patreon to gain access to ad-free episodes, bonus content, and more. Follow our socials Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. To share a Trail Tale, suggest a story, access merch, and browse our book recommendations - head over to our website. Thank you so much to our partners, check them out! Microdose: Use code NPAD to get free shipping and 30% off your first order. Skylight Frame: Get 10% off, up to $30 off at SkylightFrame.com/PARK. Miracle Made: Use our link and code NPAD to save over 40% and get 3 free towels. BetterHelp: National Park After Dark is sponsored by BetterHelp. Get 10% off.