Colorado Matters

We ask three physicians – in Denver and Grand Junction – for their long-term outlook on COVID-19. They offer their take on long COVID, vaccines, and masking. Then, one of the oldest people to graduate from CU-Boulder and why she decided to get her degree. Later, the pandemic gave two filmmakers a new home in Colorado and new inspiration for a sequel to their blockbuster.

Days of rain are finally letting up along the Front Range. State climatologist Russ Schumacher joins us with perspective. Then, new funding for search and rescue teams in Colorado. Plus, a touching and unexpected commencement speech at Western Colorado University. And, gardening expert Fatuma Emmad answers your spring planting questions!

A small school district in Colorado is drawing attention as school boards become political flashpoints. Then, why are more students in Boulder County experiencing housing instability -- and homelessness. Plus, at least two state legislatures expelled lawmakers this year...what are the rules in Colorado? Also, bringing your yard back from the winter doldrums.

A trial is underway that could put a stop to a law enforcement tactic known as the "Kansas Two-Step," which appears to target people from states where cannabis is legal. Then, a wildfire season preview. And as climate change and overuse parch the Colorado River, how's this for a solution? Bring in water from another river-- like the Mississippi. CPR's podcast "Parched" explores that idea.

As the legislative session wraps up, a look at what state lawmakers accomplished and how it will affect average Coloradans. Legislation on guns and property tax prevailed, but a major land use bill failed. Then, foreign consolutes in Colorado. And, racist themes in a popular opera Also, girls in computer science and a high school poet competes in Washington, DC.

Clippings from the rose bush at Colorado's Camp Amache are now in the ground at Denver Botanic Gardens. A survivor's daughter pays the plant a visit. Then, in Purplish, as state lawmakers pass hundreds of bills-- many with elusive pricetags, they must also balance the budget. Plus, Pueblo through the lens of a Japanese photographer.

As the pandemic emergency officially ends, the state is sending notices to people whose Medicaid benefits could end. Then, a new space race ushers in new types of businesses, like a communications provider on the moon. Also, how the "great fire" of 1863 reshaped Denver. And Denver singer/songwriter Travis McNamara's debut album is full of surprises.

We continue our conversations with the candidates for mayor of Colorado Springs. Today, former city councilman and former secretary of state Wayne Williams points to his record as a leader and why he should be elected over his opponent, Yemi Mobolade. And, how Colorado's state historian is using poetry to make the state's history more inclusive.

The candidates for mayor of Colorado Springs join us today and tomorrow. Ballots in the runoff election are due May 16. Today: political newcomer Yemi Mobolade hopes to shake things up with a new perspective. Then, a Boulder high school student envisioned a smart gun for a science fair; now he's made it a reality. Later, a special mural at East High School.

Candidate Mike Johnston wants to ensure that Denver’s teachers, nurses and firefighters can afford to live in the city where they work. In an interview with Ryan Warner, Johnston outlines his solutions for renters and homebuyers, and explains how he’d approach public safety. Then, Colorado Wonders digs into the numbers assigned to political districts.