Colorado Matters

The Martin-Drake power plant in Colorado Springs burns its last coal this week after nearly a century, then transitions to natural gas. We talk with plant manager Somer Mese about the change, and a panel of guests on the bigger picture. Then, a teaching shift in Cripple Creek. And remembering Luis Ibarra, who brought Tejano music to southern Colorado.

Sheneen McClain says she’ll fight for the rest of her life to defend her son’s name and to reform policing. CPR criminal justice reporter Allison Sherry joins us with additional insight. Then, the Purplish team begins a special report on redistricting. And Coloradans are in Tokyo for the Paralympics, including Kyle Coon of Carbondale.

We’re on the road again to hear how Coloradans are navigating lives complicated by the pandemic. Lives that are also enhanced by community and creativity. In southeast Colorado, some young people are trying to create staying power through entrepreneurship. Later, a listener asks “what’s the status of Camp Amache?” And Pueblo musician Inaiah Lujan.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis joins us for our regular conversation about issues impacting the state. Ryan Warner asks about masks in school, roads, reducing emissions and creating affordable housing. Then, hear from kids about what’s on their minds as they go back to school. And “On Something” explores the racist history of the word marijuana.

The epicenter of a massive earthquake in Haiti is just miles from where a relief group in Colorado has operated for more than 30 years. Then, an estimated 65,000 pipes in Colorado are made out of lead — which can pose health risks for drinking water. And, how some local companies are bringing workers back together in the office.

A longtime champion in Colorado of Afghan women’s rights talks about the uncertainty & danger ahead and the effort to help women get to safety. Then, a school principal shares her reasons for getting a booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. Also, autonomous vehicles on the roads of Golden. And exploring “Identity Capitalism.”

Colorado Rep. Jason Crow, a former Army Ranger who served in Afghanistan, joins us with insight into what’s happening. Then, Dr. Anuj Mehta, a pulmonologist who’s advised the state on vaccines, talks about the science behind a third shot. Also, a new comic book traces a daughter’s grief through an abandoned shopping mall and a supernatural world.

CDOT’s chief engineer, Steve Harelson, updates the I-70 cleanup through Glenwood Canyon. Then, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, (D) Colorado, talks about addressing critical infrastructure needs, from roads to broadband to water. Then, the future of Denver’s iconic Casa Bonita. Plus, “Black Ice” uses climbing to explore what it’s like to be Black in America today.