Colorado Matters

During the pandemic, the US government required states to keep people on Medicaid without checking their eligibility. Then, as the pandemic wound down, those who found jobs or earned too much to qualify, had to find other coverage. The problem was, some people who still qualified for Medicaid also lost coverage.

What's next now that former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters has been convicted on seven charges connected to breaching election system security? Then, "Aging Matters" on how to avoid real estate scams. Plus, working through challenges to harvest Olathe sweet corn. Also, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra on bird flu in Colorado. And how Project Play is working to make sports accessible to all kids.

A packed school bus, stranded in a blizzard. The driver's gone for help, and the older children are left in charge. Today, "Children of the Storm," the story of the Pleasant Hill school bus tragedy on Colorado's southeastern plains in 1931. Author and historian Ariana Harner joins us. Then, Colorado Paralympian YanXiao Gong heads to Paris already a world champion. He talks about his childhood love for his sport.

Ira Flatow wants to turn science... into dinner conversation. The host and creator of Science Friday has spent a career quenching our curiosity, and his, and making science accessible. But amidst the fun are serious issues, like water shortages, climate change, genetic engineering, and artificial intelligence. Flatow was in Colorado recently. He spoke with CPR Southern Colorado Reporter Dan Boyce in front of an audience.

Colorado's county clerks have been fighting back against disinformation and election lies for years. But this election, there's a twist -- Artificial Intelligence -- and they're training to ensure election integrity, before and after the vote. Then, ballroom culture has been sweeping the nation -- and the world -- for more than 40 years. How the spirit of the LGBTQ sub-culture that originated in New York City in the 1960s is shaping pop culture globally today, and making its mark here in Colorado. Plus, finding the right tree for your yard.

Céline Dion’s Olympic performance came despite her struggle with stiff person syndrome. She's finding help, and hope, in Colorado. Then, lawmakers may try again to address high property taxes. Plus, Cherry Creek bucks the office vacancy rate. Also, the future of the historic Zuni power plant. And, what would your Olympic sport be? Finally, Ryan Tedder and OneRepublic premiere a new outdoor venue in Colorado Springs.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston is optimistic as he takes on the high cost of housing, reducing homelessness and rebuilding trust with the police. Then, a job fair that helps people with felony records start over. Plus, meet Colorado cyclist Olivia Cummins as she makes her Olympic debut and celebrates her birthday at the same time. And Aging Matters looks at the importance of advance medical planning.

As Colorado endures another tough wildfire season the state has expanded its investigative team and hopes to hold people who start the blazes accountable. Then, Melissa Stockwell of Colorado Springs trains for the upcoming Paralympics in Paris. And, a Colorado Wonders question about bunnies. Plus, echoes of an epic Summer of Love concert in a college archive.

A late-night donation highlights the spirit of community in the town of Lyons amidst the nearby Stone Canyon fire. Lyons Mayor Hollie Rogin joins us. Then, both sides position their arguments in the trial of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters. Also, a new state law will help protect pollinating insects and rare plants. And the Taste of Ethiopia celebrates 10 years!

Does Colorado have what it needs to fight so many wildfires at once? Governor Jared Polis discusses the three current blazes and how federal funds could help in combating them. Then, fire's effect on the air we breathe is significant. And as climate change supercharges the season, health effects become a bigger and bigger concern, says pulmonologist Dr. David Beuther. Also, a new superheroine whose tag line is, “transforming disabilities into SUPERabilities.” And, celebrating Colorado Day.