Colorado Matters

As cases of COVID-19 climb in Colorado, the omicron variant creates new unknowns in the effort to predict the path of the virus. Then, an update on the King Soopers strike and the bigger picture of organized labor. Also, the disparity in college rates among Hispanic men. And, preserving the Ute Mountain Ute language.

A Louisville couple returns to the ruins of the home they lost in the Marshall fire. And, a nonprofit helps fire victims. Then, CPR reporter Andrew Kenney on economic resets in the pandemic. Also, new state laws that took effect January 1. Plus, a Denver Rescue Mission program for people in recovery. Finally, a new school uses the community as a classroom.

Lawmakers return to the state capitol Wednesday. House Speaker Alec Garnett and House Minority Leader Hugh McKean share some of the priorities and challenges as they convene. Then, reality star Colton’ Underwood’s journey after coming out brings him to Colorado for support and connection. Plus, remembering Colorado abstract painter Clark Richert.

Missy Franklin is an Olympic gold medal swimmer, but that’s not what defines her. She shares her journey through depression at the University of Colorado’s Depression Center. Plus, how the center’s helping train CU coaches to support athletes’ mental health. Then, preserving former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir’s Colorado legacy.

We get life-saving tips from Micki Trost, of Colorado’s emergency management division. Then, the survival story of a cat name Merlin. Plus, pet sociologist Leslie Irvine on the toll the Marshall Fire took on critters. Plus, Judge Raymond Jones was an early Black judge, and now his Denver neighborhood is a historic landmark.

CPR’s Jenny Brundin finds educators, kids, and families are between a rock and a viral hard place. Then, our D.C. correspondent Caitlyn Kim shares memories of last year’s insurrection. Plus, Valèria Martinez Tenreiro wants to improve Latinos’ access to mental health care. And, a new mixed-use development in Denver features a gardeny gash.

The Boven family returns to their block in Louisville for the first time since the Marshall Fire. Then, a woman who twice lost homes to fire offers perspective. And, efforts to get more shots in the arms of Colorado’s Spanish-speakers. Also, a new book examines how COVID-19 fits into the state’s boom and busts.

Congressman Joe Neguse details how the federal government is offering aid to those affected by the Marshall Fire. Then, Avista Adventist’s CEO recounts his hospital’s massive evacuation effort. Plus, back-to-school amid the omicron surge. And, former Denver mayor and U.S. cabinet secretary Federico Peña talks about his new biography.