Colorado Matters

The Wild Animal Sanctuary rescues large carnivores from captivity. Then, how to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower at its peak. And, a first-person account of a mudslide that hit Glenwood Canyon last week. Plus, the search for graves at an Indian School near Grand Junction. Finally, a musical exchange between two of Colorado best-known acts.

Simone Biles has thrown a bright spotlight on athletes’ mental health; we speak with a local psychologist about the pressures they face. Then, “Back to School” takes on new meaning for one family. And, Colorado is considering one idea to keep more water in the Colorado River.

The closing of I-70 in Glenwood Canyon after mud and debris flows affects businesses that rely on the corridor for shipping. Then, meet the US’ first female Olympic gold medalist in Taekwondo. Later, working to stop water from leaking out of irrigation canals. And a new plant species discovered in Rocky Mountain National Park.

CDOT’s chief engineer, Steve Harelson, joins us to talk about what it will take to reopen I-70 in Glenwood Canyon and to make the highway safe from mud and debris flow. Then, licensed psychologist Rick Ginsberg on dealing with the anxiety of trying to return to normal at this stage in the pandemic. Plus, a bike opera! And, working to preserve Camp Amache.

Former Gov. Richard “Dick” Lamm, who died last week, spent his 60-year career on issues still in the spotlight. We share excerpts from his past Colorado Matters interviews and a friend’s memories. Then, the perilous situation in Glenwood Canyon shows what communities grapple with for years after wildfire.

With COVID-19 cases increasing because of the delta variant, there’s increased consideration about making vaccinations mandatory. Then, we talk with actor Reid Miller about his role in the new movie “Joe Bell,” a true story with ties to Colorado. Plus, Colorado Springs celebrates its 150th birthday.

Alex Marrero is the new superintendent of Denver Public Schools, the largest district in the state. We ask about masks and assessing how much learning’s been lost to the pandemic. Then, Broncos training camp begins with questions about the quarterback and team ownership. Also, working to preserve Dearfield, and Lake Powell’s critical water drop.

Colorado’s new state historian, Nicki Gonzales, wants to engage children to understand the past and how it informs the present in a way that ensures inclusivity. Then, a vaccine clinic where a 13-year-old girl took matters into her own hands. Plus, sorting through the space debris in orbit and the threat it poses. And, the legacy of Chuck E. Weiss.