Colorado Matters

Chalkbeat investigates why more than half of Colorado's third-graders are behind in reading. Then, the budget crisis facing schools. Also, how much power does the state have to restrict the public? And, the outbreak’s mental health toll. Plus, how journaling can help record history and ease anxiety. And making a violin and bow to help struggling musicians.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock talks about what's next for the city as it shifts from "Stay at Home" to "Safer at Home." Then, understanding the state and local efforts to contact trace the virus. Plus, a CPR news investigation into the pandemic response. And, the U.S. Supreme Court could decide the fate of the Electoral College based on a Colorado case.

More stay at home orders expire this weekend across the state. But what ethical dilemmas crop up in their place? Then, clinical trials are underway to find out if existing drugs could treat COVID-19. Later, developments in the senate race, like which candidates will end up on the primary ballot. And, one musical family uses their time at home to record together.

A nurse practitioner wrestled with COVID-19 for more than two months before tests showed she’d conquered it. Then, convalescent plasma offers promise for the sickest virus patients. And, acts of kindness on the first anniversary of the STEM school shooting. Plus, Pueblo voters reject a city-owned utility. Also, singles date virtually -- with an audience.

Today’s show is a love letter to the experiences we’ve lost, at least for a while, because of COVID-19. Things we may have taken for granted, like rock concerts and road trips. They’re activities we’ve given up to protect one another. The show also reflects on what we’ve gained during the pandemic, moments one man encourages us to share in postcards to be sent in the future.

In the age of the pandemic, what might the future of restaurants be? Then, we will soon know whose names will be on the Democratic primary ballot in Colorado. Plus, 50 years of Colorado as a leader in space missions. And from "The Kitchen Shelf" comes a community cookbook with recipes from health care workers in Kit Carson County.

Gov. Jared Polis talks about his decision to lift the stay at home order and his plan to ramp up testing in our regular conversation. Then, a check-in with the state’s nurses and doctors. Later, a flower farm in Arvada is trying to fill bellies. And, how Yeti Cycles is adapting to the pandemic. Finally, CPR podcast “At a Distance” tries a virtual escape room.

Teens were stressed about school, friends, and expectations before the pandemic. How are they doing now? Then, another entry in the "COVID Diaries Colorado" series. Also, "At a Distance" explores ways to process loss while in isolation. And, the winning entry in Denverite's flash fiction contest was inspired by health workers on the front lines.

Meet one of the first patients to be successfully taken off a ventilator in Colorado. Then, the perspective on why minority groups have higher infection rates of COVID-19. Later, an update from CU’s scientific mission studying ice in the Arctic. And, a virtual film festival made by Colorado teens. Finally, Denver singer Rob Drabkin wants you to “Wash Your Hands.”

From people spitting on grocery store clerks to suspects telling police they have COVID-19 during arrests, how are district attorneys handling violations of the state's public health order? Then, sharing one of the "COVID-19 Diaries Colorado." And Denver's "The Lumineers" talk about how addiction in their families influenced their latest album.