Colorado Matters

CPR’s Vic Vela hosts weekend edition. Before that, he covered the State Capitol for us. Vic says his CPR gig is the first job he’s ever had sober. And it’s in the clarity of sobriety that he had an idea: A podcast about recovery, in all its forms. Season one of “Back From Broken” debuts today Friday, February 21. We share the first episode in this special Colorado Matters. And Vic will take us behind the scenes.

As a bill that would restrict vaccine exemptions in schools advances in the state senate, a sociology professor breaks down where vaccination concerns come from. Plus, how one teen is overcoming trauma and helping others. Later, Carter Wilson’s “The Dead Girl in 2A” is nominated for an award. Finally, what CPR News is hearing from voters ahead of Super Tuesday.

Former U.S. Attorney for Colorado Bob Troyer explains why he signed a letter calling on Attorney General William Barr to resign. Then, remembering Donald Stratton, who was one of the last survivors of the attack on the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. Plus, Denver contemporary artist Jordan Casteel on her love of painting as her work sells big at auction.

The folks who run Colorado elections are prepping security measures for Super Tuesday, March 3. Then, CPR reporters have traveled the state to hear what’s on voters’ minds. And, yep, ski traffic is getting worse. Plus, when scientist Albert Einstein and opera star Marian Anderson met.

On this Presidents Day, we get insight into “The President’s Kitchen Cabinet” where some African-American chefs also became confidantes and political advisers. Plus, the founding fathers and the harsh reality of health care. Also, defining the new role of First Lady. And, in search of Dr. Justina Ford’s former patients for a tribute in Denver.

Denver comedian Ben Roy updates his ongoing journey to fight back against the sexual abuse he says he endured as a boy at a Catholic Church summer camp. Then, rising from poverty to creating sustainable communities, Abel Chavez now helps students succeed and innovate. Plus a University of Denver student’s new film searches for a sense of belonging.

Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute elders are sharing their stories with younger generations in the project, “Native Braids” from Ignacio public radio station, KSUT. And, Ebony Flowers, author of “Hot Comb,” reflects on the idea that hair can be a referendum on race and societal norms. Finally, Denver band Tennis on the new album “Swimmer” out Friday.

Colorado’s primary vote is three weeks away and several presidential candidates will be visiting the state this month. We offer an analysis of what’s to come and look at Senator Michael Bennet’s decision to pull out of the race. Then, what you should know before you fill out your ballot. And, how to master winter bicycling. Plus, ballet meets country music.