Colorado Matters

In 1922, at a time of deep racial segregation, two Denverites realized their dream of building a resort in the Rocky Mountains for middle class African Americans to socialize and, for a time, escape the stress of racism. State historian Jared Orsi joins Chandra Thomas Whitfield as retired Denver county judge Gary Jackson shares his family’s legacy on the centennial of the Lincoln Hills resort.

The U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, former Colorado Senator Ken Salazar, discusses cracking down on fentanyl trafficking and relations between the two nations. Then, the TABOR check rollout. Also, listening to voter voices before the midterms. Plus, understanding ketamine and its various uses. And, a museum on communication, found inside a library.

As ballots go out in the mail this week, there may be more on voters’ minds than just deciding the issues. In CPR’s podcast, Colorado In Depth, reporter Matt Bloom takes you behind the scenes of Colorado’s elections to meet the people and systems designed to prevent fraud and count every vote. Then, the convergence of affordable housing and community art spaces.

Former Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen says he often thinks about the protests following the murder of George Floyd. He spoke with CPR justice reporter Allison Sherry about the highs, the lows, and what’s next. Then, Purplish explains the affordable housing measure voters will decide this election.

The Colorado Department of Transportation has laid out its plan for the next ten years, from completing the Central I-70 corridor project to re-thinking how people get around. Ryan Warner took a ride with CDOT’s executive director, Shoshana Lew. Then, building an affordable home that’s climate-friendly and withstands climate hazards like wildfires. Plus, restoring trust in science.

As Colorado’s Secretary of State, Jena Griswold has been a persistent voice on issues ranging from ballot access to a woman’s right to choose. Today, we hear from the Democratic incumbent. We heard from her Republican challenger, Pam Anderson, yesterday. Then, author E.J. Levy, who won a Colorado Book Award for best historical fiction for “The Cape Doctor.”

Colorado’s Secretary of State wears a lot of hats, but the aspect of the job that gets the most attention these days is overseeing elections and voting. Today, we talk with Republican candidate Pam Anderson; tomorrow, Democratic incumbent Jena Griswold. Then, the impact of school threats on students’ and teachers’ mental health, even when they’re hoaxes. And remembering the “First Lady of Recovery.”

The Republican county clerk from conservative El Paso county says the “Big Lie” is making his job more challenging. He’s had to beef up security and, in an area where election denialism abounds, it’s his job to debunk it. Then, perspective on climate and weather.