Colorado Matters

Fort Morgan, unlike other communities on the Plains, is adding people. Many of them are immigrants and refugees. We’ll meet two women trying to up Morgan County’s vaccination rate, which lags behind the state average. Then, a Main Street businessman with a vision for helping Fort Morgan grow. And remembering Fort Morgan High School’s most famous graduate.

Colorado’s population is diverse, but its doctors don’t reflect that. We’ll explore the reasons why, the importance of inclusion, and break down the obstacles to building a broader community of physicians. Then, Ryan previews the next stop on our road trip! And Purplish asks, “How do you take politics out of something that’s inherently political?”

The Martin-Drake power plant in Colorado Springs burns its last coal this week after nearly a century, then transitions to natural gas. We talk with plant manager Somer Mese about the change, and a panel of guests on the bigger picture. Then, a teaching shift in Cripple Creek. And remembering Luis Ibarra, who brought Tejano music to southern Colorado.

Sheneen McClain says she’ll fight for the rest of her life to defend her son’s name and to reform policing. CPR criminal justice reporter Allison Sherry joins us with additional insight. Then, the Purplish team begins a special report on redistricting. And Coloradans are in Tokyo for the Paralympics, including Kyle Coon of Carbondale.

We’re on the road again to hear how Coloradans are navigating lives complicated by the pandemic. Lives that are also enhanced by community and creativity. In southeast Colorado, some young people are trying to create staying power through entrepreneurship. Later, a listener asks “what’s the status of Camp Amache?” And Pueblo musician Inaiah Lujan.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis joins us for our regular conversation about issues impacting the state. Ryan Warner asks about masks in school, roads, reducing emissions and creating affordable housing. Then, hear from kids about what’s on their minds as they go back to school. And “On Something” explores the racist history of the word marijuana.

The epicenter of a massive earthquake in Haiti is just miles from where a relief group in Colorado has operated for more than 30 years. Then, an estimated 65,000 pipes in Colorado are made out of lead — which can pose health risks for drinking water. And, how some local companies are bringing workers back together in the office.

A longtime champion in Colorado of Afghan women’s rights talks about the uncertainty & danger ahead and the effort to help women get to safety. Then, a school principal shares her reasons for getting a booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. Also, autonomous vehicles on the roads of Golden. And exploring “Identity Capitalism.”