Colorado Matters

The heat dome that’s gripped the Northeast is headed our way, with temperatures hovering close to 100 degrees. We’ll get the summer outlook from Denver7 chief meteorologist Mike Nelson. Then, Purplish takes a closer look at the primary races in congressional districts 5 and 8. And later, educators share their stories in a new podcast and on-stage event, “Hot for Teacher.”

When Denver celebrated its first Pride 50 years ago, about 50 people took part. Now that number is 500,000. On a special Colorado Matters, we share “A Half Century of Pride Stories,” reflecting on the past while looking forward to the future.

To commemorate the Juneteenth holiday, we’re re-sharing an event that highlights Black culture and history while building community along the way. “Black People Know Things” is a trivia night held monthly at local breweries. We sat in on a special Colorado Black history edition in February at Spangalang Brewery in Five Points.

When it comes to Colorado’s so-called “Red Flag” gun violence prevention law, where you live often dictates when it’s used, if it’s used at all. Then, her family’s musical legacy goes back four generations, but JoFoKe isn’t relying on that as she makes her own mark, baring her soul on stage. For Black Music Month, we re-share our February interview with the Denver singer/songwriter. Plus, a big fossil find near Colorado Springs.

“Purplish” reviews at a crowded GOP primary in Colorado’s third congressional district. Then, “The Delta in the Rearview Mirror” chronicles how things went south at Di Rushing’s Mississippi winery, leading her to Colorado. And, a Colorado Wonders question about those big sculptures in Golden. Plus, singer-songwriter Bay Bryan.

It’s not something any political party wants heading into an election but the Colorado Republican Party is embroiled in a very public leadership struggle, with a growing effort to oust state GOP chair Dave Williams. Then, the two people vying to lead the Denver District Attorney’s office. Plus, Jenna Bainbridge’s trailblazing journey to Broadway. And the FACC Padayon Philippine Festival this weekend!

There’s been a slight uptick of the COVID-19 virus in wastewater around the state. We’ve tapped an expert to ask why. What’s the latest protocol for testing? And what about vaccines? Then, a plan to clean up fossil fuel combustion. Also, Father’s Day is this weekend, but what does it mean to be an active and engaged father — and why does it matter?

Of the suicides reported in El Paso County in 2021, roughly a third were military veterans. It prompted a pilot program called Next Chapter, a name carefully chosen to offer hope. The program has already expanded into Pueblo and Teller counties. Then, how a Colorado Springs-based clothier is creating community. And high school biology teacher Colin Prater is heading to the U.S. Open.