Colorado Matters

On this Presidents Day, perspectives from the Founding Fathers to the First Ladies. The current pandemic isn’t the first time past leaders have had to overcome sickness. Then, history’s take on the transition of power. Also, presidential confidantes and advisors on the White House kitchen staff. And, notable First Ladies who helped their husbands succeed.

A Denver chef shares what it’s like to lose his senses of smell and taste to COVID-19, and what researchers theorize is happening to the body. Then, CPR’s Washington, D.C. reporter Caitlyn Kim’s observations on the Senate impeachment trial in Purplish. And, filmmaker Lee Isaac Chung’s family story in “Minari.”

Three new places have been added to the list of the most endangered in Colorado. We’ll talk about the evolving goals of preservation. Then, calls to Colorado’s child abuse and neglect hotline are down, but what does that mean? Also, the “Science Moms” are on a mission about climate change. Plus a “Journey to Freedom” with the spirituals radio project.

There are three missions to Mars underway and all hope to find signs of life. Then, more from the education series, “The Workforce Behind The Workforce.” Later, choreographer Cleo Parker Robinson talks dance in the pandemic and racial justice. Plus, why making your own outdoor gear used to be a thing. And, new music from climate activist Xiuhtezcatl.

We talk with the chairperson of a Colorado Springs citizen commission that’s examining policing: from racial bias to crisis response to use of force. Then, assessing Colorado’s special needs parole law. Also, we remember anti-war and civil rights champion Rennie Davis. Plus, Colorado native Tia Fuller brings her love of jazz to Pixar’s new movie, “Soul.”

Mounting frustration with the unemployment system as people are denied benefits because of the state’s efforts to crack down on fraud. Then, a critical moment for the state GOP as the party tries to unify. Plus, an all-out effort to rescue horses from a wildfire. And new reflections on Selena from a stagehand who worked one of her concerts in Pueblo.

Denver’s former independent law enforcement monitor talks about the challenges ahead for his replacement. Plus, two dentists on safety protocols against COVID-19 and how pandemic anxiety is showing up in people’s teeth. Then, meet Koko Bayer, the Denver artist who created hearts with a message of hope. And, the “future funk” sound of Denver band, The Grand Alliance.

State demographer Elizabeth Garner shares stories behind the statistics of Colorado’s population growth. Also, RTD’s new CEO Debra Johnson on the challenges ahead for public transit. Then, we remember civil rights champion Ruth Steele from Pueblo. And “Turn the Page” is reading a book about animals.