Colorado Matters

The holidays are all about giving and goodwill. But that can extend beyond people and pets — we talk with sustainability experts about everything from gift wrapping to fashion. Then, how to take care of poinsettias. Also, a veteran sailor’s memories of being at Pearl Harbor 80 years ago. And, an increasingly tight housing market in Pueblo.

Assistant state climatologist Becky Bollinger on why Colorado’s so dry. Then, how the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on abortion might impact the state. And, remnants of an esoteric religion in Southern Colorado. Also, hidden secrets of the Ludlow Massacre. Plus, helping early learners catch up. Finally, “We Are Santa.”

Fifteen teenagers were shot in almost as many days in Aurora. Officials are struggling to identify a pattern. Then, an analysis of 1993’s “Summer of Violence” shows the importance of context in crime reporting. Plus, remembering justice and poet Gregory Hobbs. Also one woman’s journey through Alzheimer’s. And Dolly Parton helps Colorado kids read.

What are monoclonal antibodies and how effective are they if someone catches COVID-19? Then, the “Youth Gun Violence and Suicide Prevention Wellness Weekend” is designed to help people, especially young Black men, cope with life’s “triggers.” Plus, remembering Colorado Music Hall of Fame drummer Jim Gallagher of the Astronauts.

Long-haul COVID offers an opportunity to learn more about chronic fatigue, a condition that’s often dismissed. We’ll hear from a doctor about how he navigated the illness. Then, a former drug user and federal prisoner in Pueblo who grew his family’s small business. And, the story of Grammy-winning musician Marc Cohn and his near-death experience in Denver.

We talk with pulmonologist Anuj Mehta about the state’s work to track the omicron variant, and to get grounding about the concern. Then, Colorado Sun reporter David Gilbert investigated sexual misconduct and abuse allegations at the Colorado Center for the Blind. Also, restoring the Air Force Academy chapel.

Rev. Paula Stone Williams, of Left Hand Church in Longmont, transitioned at age 60. The evangelical circles she’d dedicated her life to as a man rejected her as a trans woman. Williams’ new book is “As A Woman: What I Learned about Power, Sex, and the Patriarchy After I Transitioned.” She joined us in July for “Turn The Page,” our regular reading circle.

At age 15, Curtis Brooks was sentenced to life without parole. He was granted clemency and released in 2019. He’s adjusting to a new life, and recently was married. Then, the Women’s Bean Project thrives as it trains women. Also, emotional growth in the pandemic. And, using social media influencers to draw students to college. Plus, Mexican dance in Pueblo.