Colorado Matters

As the war escalates between Israel and Hamas, we hear from state lawmakers with roots in the region. Then, as the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets start their new season, a familiar voice will call the players to the court. Kyle Speller begins his 19th year as the team's stadium announcer. He's also the team chaplain. Plus, how did "No Name" get its name? And rethinking how we buy and discard clothing.

CPR’s “Purplish” podcast explains Proposition II, regarding excess tobacco tax money. Then, Elijah McClain’s mother, Sheneen, on the verdict in the first trial for officers charged in the death of her son. Plus, the first Native American on the Water Conservation Board. And, flying insects in a warmer climate. Then, a Colorado legend joins the National Rodeo Hall of Fame.

Colorado had a wet spring but it's dry now. What does that portend going into the winter? Denver7 chief meteorologist Mike Nelson joins us for our regular weather and climate discussion. Then, the call goes out for teachers with unique skills. Plus, exploring Denver's old airport tower. Also, the story of the two women who braved a "wild river." And Colorado Wonders questions about license plates.

The Yampa Valley is doing some economic soul-searching, as Colorado weans itself from fossil fuels. We'll visit a historic granary that's been reimagined. There's also a push for a commuter train from Craig to Steamboat. Also, CPR's Caitlyn Kim talks with Rep. Ken Buck about his position on the House Speaker vote. And the new RMPBS documentary, "Return of the Buffalo."

One of the statewide issues voters will decide in this election is Proposition HH, designed to lower property taxes. We look at both sides with Purplish, CPR's podcast about politics and policy. Then, why do small airports still use fuel containing lead for planes? Also, a new LGBTQ+ community center opens soon in Colorado Springs. And we answer a Colorado Wonders question about the Blue Book.

County clerks across Colorado are leaving office – many because of pressure from election skeptics. Then, Mesa County voters will decide whether to extend term limits for jobs including county clerk. And, Aurora NAACP head Omar Montgomery calls for an independent police monitor. Plus, an authentic Indian restaurant in Colorado Springs.

One trial ends with split verdicts for two Aurora police officers and the next trial is beginning in the death of Elijah McClain. We'll take a closer look at police accountability and changes to Colorado law. Then, we speak with a Colorado doctor who is in Gaza, unable to leave. And the U.S. Forest Service is rethinking housing on Forest Service land.

There’s no “one size fits all” solution for homelessness, but one big idea being tested is literally giving unrestricted money to those struggling. We ask how the Denver Basic Income Project is working out and hear from a man who says it's transformed his life. Then, 25 years ago... a young college student named Matthew Shepard was brutally attacked and left for dead -- all because he was gay. His parents reflect on his legacy and their ongoing work toward acceptance.

In our regular interview, Gov. Jared Polis says he’ll revive a landmark proposal to give the state more control over land use. The measure, designed to increase the stock of affordable housing, died in the 2023 legislative session. Then, documentarian Ken Burns on “The American Buffalo.”

The forceful tactics Aurora police used to stop and subdue Elijah McClain four years ago, and protests a year later, led to a state investigation. It concluded that the Aurora Police Department has a pattern of racist policing. As a result, Aurora became the first city in Colorado placed under state oversight. It's now required to overhaul its policies and practices. We ask how that consent decree is going.