State Democrats Make Plans Using TABOR Workarounds
Colorado’s state government has some ambitious spending plans for the years to come … from child tax credits to massive transportation upgrades, paid family leave and new funding for schools — totaling billions of dollars of new money for state services and benefits. And it’s all happening despite the strict financial limits set by the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights.
By Avery Lill
June 8, 2021: Coroner Sees ‘Vital Signs’ In His Community; Kids Put Emotions Into Words
At the state’s busiest coroner’s office, Dr Leon Kelly identifies stressors that are killing people in his community. Then, prompted by the simple word “imagine,” students write about their feelings. And, memories of WWII internment camp Amache as it’s considered for designation as a national historic site. Plus, the founder of the Colorado National Monument.
By Avery Lill
Million-Dollar Drawings, Drag Queens And Free Beer — How Effective Are COVID Vaccine Incentives?
Community organizations, counties, and Colorado are trying different tactics to boost immunization rates as COVID-19 vaccination appointments go unfilled.
By Avery Lill
June 3, 2021: Fentanyl Overdoses Rising In Colorado; COVID-19 And Domestic Violence
Fatal overdoses from fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far stronger than heroin, occur more frequently in Colorado than the national average. A look at the factors behind the numbers and possible solutions. Then, advocates say the stresses and isolation of COVID-19 has made it even more challenging for victims of domestic violence to seek help.
By Avery Lill
Explaining The ‘Unexplainable’: Looking At UFOs
The Pentagon will release a report this month about what the U.S. government knows about UFOs. It’s supposed to detail “unexplainable” sightings and unidentified aerial phenomena. Denver author and Popular Science contributing editor Sarah Scoles explores the fascination with these phenomena. Her book is called “They Are Already Here: UFO Culture And Why We See Saucers.”
By Avery Lill
June 1, 2021: Summer Camp’s Pandemic Evolution; Creating Air Awareness
Camp Granite Lake near Golden welcomes back kids this summer. How will the pandemic change things? Plus, a final visit to “Room 132.” Then, raising awareness about the air we breathe to stop the spread of COVID-19. Purplish looks at the final push at the state capitol. We hop on-board the California Zephyr, and kick off the next “Turn the Page” book event!
By Avery Lill
Summer Camps Evolve With Changing Pandemic Protocols
Camp Granite Lake near Golden is getting ready to welcome back kids after the pandemic forced it to shut down last summer. Camp director Tommy Feldman talks about the excitement of reopening, the changes, and the support the camp’s received from parents and kids who are eager to return.
By Avery Lill
May 27, 2021: ‘Systemic’ Explores Police Reform From Outside And Within
What will it take to create real change when it comes to police reform? CPR’s new podcast “Systemic” explores that through first-person stories. Producer and host Jo Erickson joins us to talk about the project. Then, evictions during the pandemic have been relatively rare in Colorado thanks to protections for renters, but that may change in the months ahead.
By Avery Lill
May 25, 2021: The Roots of Camping, From S’mores To Shelter To Protest
CU Boulder historian Phoebe Young traces the history of camping from the Civil War to the Occupy Movement, exploring the booming recreation industry, the use of camping in protests, and the controversy over camping bans. Her new book is “Camping Grounds, Public Nature in American Life from the Civil War to the Occupy Movement.” Then, a toxic cave.
By Avery Lill
May 20, 2021: Understanding How Viruses Spread Through The Air To Stop The Next Pandemic
Jose-Luis Jimenez is a professor of chemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder who studies how viruses like COVID-19 spread through the air. So what’s been learned over the past year to prevent another pandemic? Then, we revisit the history of medicine with Dr. David Schneider and how it led to the quick development of COVID-19 vaccines.
By Avery Lill
May 18, 2021: Colorado Artist Challenges Indigenous Stereotypes; ‘Going To Trinidad’
Artist Gregg Deal draws on stereotypes to break them down. The title of his exhibit, “Merciless Indian Savages,” comes straight from the Declaration of Independence. Then, the Southern Colorado town of Trinidad was known as the “Sex Change Capital of the World.” Author Martin Smith’s “Going to Trinidad” tells the story of pioneering surgeon Stanley Biber.
By Avery Lill
Gregg Deal’s Paintings Challenge Stereotypes And Champion Visibility Of Indigenous People
Paintings line the History Colorado Center mezzanine in Downtown Denver. At first glance, some of the images play into stereotypes of Indigenous people.
By Avery Lill
May 13, 2021: The Rift Among Republicans; What To Know About The COVID-19 Vaccine & Kids
A group of Republicans wants the GOP to reform and embrace clear principles or they may consider creating a new political party. Then, what parents need to know now that children 12 and older can get vaccinated against COVID-19. Plus, creating energy from the sewers. And “On Something” is back to explore the connection between cannabis and social justice.
By Avery Lill
May 11, 2021: CU’s President Resigns; A Farmer Turned Author With ‘Site Fidelity’
What’s next for CU as President Mark Kennedy moves on. Then, what the post-pandemic office might look like. And, an Aurora singer earns another chance on “The Voice.” Plus, author Claire Boyles’ debut story collection. Also, a Colorado Springs high school where employees must reapply. Finally, Bruce Randolph Jr. carried on his legendary father’s legacy.
By Avery Lill
Author Claire Boyles’ New Story Collection Has Its Roots On Her Farm
Claire Boyles started writing her book, “Site Fidelity,” while living on a farm outside Greeley. Her family sold the farm but the stories kept coming.
By Avery Lill
May 6, 2021: The DREAM Continues 20 Years Later; Grappling With History Of KKK In Denver
Twenty years ago, Congress first debated the DREAM Act. We’ll reflect on the ongoing discussion about undocumented immigrants with two DACA recipients in Colorado. Then, addressing vaccine hesitancy. Also, how KKK Ledgers from the 1920s help explain inequities that exist today. Plus, low carbon farming.
By Avery Lill