Colorado Matters

We talk with former Colorado U.S. Attorney John Walsh, who called the immigration policy, “dangerous, expensive and inconsistent with the values of the institution.” Then, marijuana tour bus businesses hit a rough patch. Next, what to look for at the Aspen Ideas Festival and at various classical concerts this summer. Then, a tale from a storytelling event.

A week from the primaries, we showcase our interviews with the Democratic candidates for governor. Listen to the full interviews with Mike Johnston, Cary Kennedy, Donna Lynne and Jared Polis at www.cpr.org/news/colorado-governor-candidates-2018. Also check out the CPR podcast “Who’s Gonna Govern?” www.npr.org/podcasts/616863526/who-s-gonna-govern.

A week from the primaries, we showcase our interviews with the Republican candidates for governor. Listen to the full interviews with Greg Lopez, Victor Mitchell, Doug Robinson and Walker Stapleton at www.cpr.org/news/colorado-governor-candidates-2018. Also check out the CPR podcast “Who’s Gonna Govern?” www.npr.org/podcasts/616863526/who-s-gonna-govern.

The Coffee Joint is the first in Denver to receive a social consumption license. Then, Julia Greeley’s legacy of service could earn her Catholic sainthood. Next, we talk to a woman moving back to Puerto Rico to help rebuild. Then, we learn about a new novel set during the War of 1812. Finally, why artists are putting cats in these alleyways.

Students at two very different schools – one urban and high-poverty, the other suburban and affluent – discuss the ubiquity of cannabis, self-medicating and more. Then, the latest theater experience at Denver Center isn’t in the theater. Next, how green roofs work. Finally, a transwoman and her doctor talk about her gender confirmation surgery next month.

Wildfire season kicked off with a bang this year with the 416 Fire. Here’s what you should know about fire evacuation orders. Then, new businesses in the flowering cannabis industry include yoga classes and bus tours. Next, a decline in newspapers correlates to higher interest rates for taxpayers. Finally, we hear from Colorado musician Brent Cowles.

Sen. Cory Gardner says there is “some confusion” about the impact of the North Korean summit and hopes to hear clarification from President Trump soon. Then, three marijuana entrepreneurs weigh in on the past, present and future of the industry. Next, a new play tackles slavery and race with dark comedy. Finally, a composer who writes music about prehistory.

Colorado’s black market marijuana problem is often assumed to be connected to recreational legalization, but that’s not quite right. Then, we hear from a crisis intervention expert on how to spot and help a loved one, friend or colleague contemplating taking their own life. And, members of the Trump administration headlined the Western Conservative Summit including Attorney General Jeff Sessions and E.P.A. Administrator Scott Pruitt.