Colorado Matters

The Orion spacecraft splashed down last weekend. Coloradans helped design and build it. Then, how the LGBTQ community fares in traditionally conservative Colorado Springs. Plus, a Colorado nonprofit helps people afford solar power. And, “The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience” taps into pop culture and speaks to diversity and inclusion.

To solve cases of missing and murdered Indigenous Coloradans, the state created a new office. Then, the plan is taking shape to reintroduce gray wolves to Colorado. Plus, Colorado’s new teacher of the year hits just the right note with his students through his love of music. And a reptile rescuer near Boulder wants people to reconsider giving animals as gifts.

Congress just passed some protections for same-sex marriage, but that right to marry is still vulnerable in Colorado. Then, CPR News investigates the number of mass shootings this year in Colorado. Later, how “blah” weather impacts climate. Plus, as “The Whale” opens in movie theaters, it got its debut in Denver as a play. And another runner-up in our Southern Colorado holiday show contest.

Daniel Aston and Derrick Rump, killed in the shooting in Colorado Springs, were considered the heart of Club Q. They were recently lauded by friends, family and coworkers. Then, it’s well-known that the pandemic added new mental health challenges for people. That includes eating disorders like anorexia, where the number of cases is increasing.

Prosecutors have charged the alleged attacker in the Club Q shooting with 305 criminal counts, ranging from first- degree murder to bias-motivated crimes. Then, a look at the fraught history between the LGBTQ community and police. Also, public pressure leads the Colorado Healing Fund to change how it allocates money.

Colorado is the first state with a law designed to ensure underrepresented communities are not overcharged for insurance. Then, we talk with the founder of Latin Fashion Week Colorado about how he uses visual art and design to create inclusion. Also, college faculty who don’t have tenure say they’re at a breaking point at the state’s public universities because of huge pay gaps.

Club Q’s co-owner on how those closest to the tragedy are mourning, and looking ahead. Then, a fundraising organization faces scrutiny. And, remembering Club Q victim Raymond Green Vance. Plus, a fresh start for some people in the criminal justice system. Also, “Neon Deion” comes to CU.

The Sand Creek Massacre is the subject of a new exhibit at History Colorado in Denver. But it is not just the story of the more than 200 Arapaho and Cheyenne slain by U.S. government troops in 1864. It is a meditation on the tribes’ history, their cultures, and their present-day lives. Later, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear a Colorado case about public accommodations. And, the science of influencing others.