Colorado Matters

As Colorado swelters in record heat, we talk with Denver7 Chief meteorologist Mike Nelson about the connection to climate. Then, Montrose emerges as a leader in preventing school violence. Plus, a man who’s spent nearly 40 years helping people experiencing homelessness. Also, how Black barber shops are helping with health. And, remembering Clela Rorex, a pioneering Boulder County Clerk.

We remember Leila Morrison who lived in Windsor. She treated soldiers on the frontlines of World War II and saw the horrors of concentration camps. She reflects on the high cost of freedom. She passed away July 16, just a week after her 100th birthday. Later, the Colorado Theatre Guild applauds the creative effort to bring the legacy of Rattlesnake Kate to the stage.

Ten years ago today, the world watched in horror after a man opened fire at a movie theater in Aurora. A memorial garden ensures that those whose lives were affected, aren’t forgotten. Organizers also hope the memorial will give strength to other families whose loved ones died or were injured in mass shootings.

Fentanyl deaths in Colorado are 10 times higher than they were even a few years ago. We talk with three people working to stop the trend. Then, CU's waiting game with the Pac-12. Plus, award-winning Aurora chef Caroline Glover talks about her love of cooking and shares some comfort food. Also, remembering those lost in the Aurora theater shooting t10 years ago.

From variants to fall boosters, Dr. Anuj Mehta from Denver Health gives us a checkup on COVID-19 in Colorado. Then, outgoing state historian Nicki Gonzales reflects on her mission to learn about Colorado's diverse history. Plus, a mapping project highlighting Japanese Americans in Five Points. And, Judy Collins returns to her Colorado roots.

Incumbent U.S. Senator Michael Bennet is gearing up for a tough reelection campaign. He answers questions about the Supreme Court, abortion access, the filibuster, President Biden's leadership, and inflation. Then, an innovative effort to save water. Plus, working to diversify the prestigious James Beard Awards. And, a special bond over violins.

It's illegal. And a party drug. But MDMA., also known as Ecstasy and Molly, is showing revolutionary promise as a way to treat PTSD. Then, a Colorado company that wants to remove greenhouse gasses. And, dancing galaxies are just some of the cosmic marvels spotted by the James Webb Space Telescope. Also, local artists on the eve of the Underground Music Showcase.

The STAR (Support Team Assisted Response) Program is designed to help people in crisis, without involving Denver police officers. A new study suggests it's working. Plus, Colorado In Depth features CPR's Caitlyn Kim's trip with the Colorado National Guard on its mission to Estonia. And a summer camp that's helping kids catch up on learning.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser calls recent decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court “destabilizing.” He says he'll protect abortion access and he’s prepared for challenges to the state's red flag gun law. Then, CPR’s new podcast asks, ¿Quién Are We?

National Book Award finalist Kali Fajardo-Anstine sets her new novel "Woman of Light" in both Southern Colorado and Denver. Many of the characters are based on her ancestors. Fajardo-Anstine joined Colorado Matters in front of an audience at the Tattered Cover Book Store.