Colorado Matters

PJ Abernathy of Denver was released early from prison as part of an executive order to try to control the spread of COVID-19. He reflects on life behind bars during the pandemic, and what it’s like now that he’s on parole. Plus, the world’s fastest speed-eater takes on the slopper challenge at the Colorado State Fair. And new music from the Cody Sisters.

Some graduate schools are teaching health care workers about cannabis since many say they don’t feel prepared to answer patients’ questions about it. Also, MDMA — also known as ecstasy — as a treatment for PTSD. Then, a new memoir about one woman’s struggle with eating disorders. And, a Denver museum sends people on an outdoor, virtual excursion.

A CU Boulder study looks at how much Russian social media bots and trolls influenced the 2016 election. Then, Democrat Ike McCorkle will challenge Republican congressman Ken Buck this election. Later, Boulder poet Khadijah Queen on her new collection “Anodyne.” Finally, Daniel Rodriguez, formerly of Elephant Revival, turned heartache into his debut solo album.

With eleven statewide ballot measures, what’s the big theme for voters? And, are wolves already back in Colorado? Plus, the reasons trees are migrating. Also, diversifying the Space Force. Then, remembering a Longmont Marine. Two Colorado women are working to return live theater to Broadway. And, the ‘Platinum Divaz.’

The pandemic has meant big adjustments for students who need special education services, as well as for the teachers and parents who work with them. Then, telecom companies are being asked to provide help for kids without internet access. And, the killing of two Latino men in Longmont 40 years ago that led to a civil rights movement.

Just how hard has the pandemic hit Colorado’s arts industry? Then, affordable housing is harder to find in Telluride because of COVID-19. Later, Fresh Food Connect sends the glut in your garden to hunger relief organizations. Finally, Fort Collins’ Logan Farmer works through climate anxiety on his new album.

Elijah McClain died a year ago after an encounter with Aurora police. The case is a rallying point for reform. Then, two Colorado delegates to the Republican National Convention. Plus, memories of Lincoln Hills. Also, Democrats hope to crack a traditional GOP stronghold. And, the artist behind a Colorado Springs mural about indigenous women wins a big prize.

Colorado’s GOP chair Rep. Ken Buck on mail-in voting and the Republican National Convention. Later, the new podcast, “In The Gap: How And Why Black Women Aren’t Getting Their Green,” explores the history of the wage gap for black women and how to close it. Finally, Longmont folk artist Jayme Stone’s new album delves into the grief of losing his brother.