Colorado Matters

It's the 5th Annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza. Grammy-nominated jazz cornetist Ron Miles headlines; Broadway star Beth Malone channels Judy Garland; and Colorado Springs comedian Rion Evans brings some levity to 2020. They're just some of the acts in a virtual event this year-- so we spread merriment and not virus. We hope you enjoy!

Creating clear communication around the COVID-19 vaccine will be important to its rollout and acceptance. Then, how sanctioned encampments in Denver are helping people experiencing homelessness. And Colorado comedian Josh Blue finds a creative outlet through fine art.

Today, answering questions about the COVID-19 vaccines. Who gets a shot and when? Will your doctor let you know when to get a shot? What if you don't have a doctor? What’s known about allergic reactions? What's the difference between vaccines? What's the plan to reach out to communities hardest hit? A panel of guests helps answer these questions and more.

The Tattered Cover is now the largest Black-owned bookstore in the country. We talk with the new owners about their vision for the future. Then, a Western Slope artist shares how the pandemic's influenced her work. Also, a 17-year-old songwriter finds success with "Ratatouille" and TikTok. And, Colorado's holiday light tradition and poinsettia pointers.

What lessons have colleges and universities learned about the pandemic from the fall as they get ready for students this spring? Then, hear from teachers as they grapple with another return to the classroom. Plus, two celestial shows to watch for in the night sky this week! Also, two Colorado astronauts lead the return to the Moon. And the messages of masks.

Before more pandemic talk, a little escape to two secluded islands that, yes, are in Colorado. Then, CPR’s COVID-19 reporting team answers questions about the vaccine rollout. Later, why Denver's "Queer Santa" had to get used to that name. Finally, The Lumineers’ frontman Wesley Schultz talks his debut solo album, “Vignettes.”

Colorado researchers talk about the goals and challenges of the MOSAIC expedition, the biggest research mission ever in the Arctic. Then, some Colorado Springs high school students explore a new way to stage a theater production during the pandemic. And the Vocal Coalition works to unify through music.

Republican Lauren Boebert answers questions about the Affordable Care Act, pandemic restrictions, and guns in the U.S. Capitol. Then, how farmers and ranchers are adapting for climate change. Plus, we reflect on El Chapultepec's legacy of jazz and blues. Also, we talk with Time's Kid of the Year. And, ensuring the state capitol is "truly the people's house."

Republican Congressman Doug Lamborn wants to keep Space Command in the state permanently. Then, a Netflix series tells the tale of Felix Sparks who led the liberation at Dachau in WWII and went on to become an influential leader in Colorado. Finally, Doris Goodteacher shares what it was like to be relocated from the Santee Sioux Nation to Denver in the 1950s.

Elizabeth Hernandez, of Denver, shares how the pandemic is affecting her family and her job reporting on higher education disparities. Plus, Ken Buck tries to reassure the GOP that Colorado's election system is reliable. Then, stories of Colorado women who played a key role in World War II. And, Colorado's Clare Dunn has new music in time for the holidays.