Colorado Matters

Former Denver Nugget Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf's NBA career seemed to end "In the Blink of an Eye," which is the title of his new autobiography, reflecting on his decision not to stand for the National Anthem and how it still resonates today. Then, how RTD counts change. And celebrating the artistry and genius of Mozart.

In a new memoir, Oscar "Osi" Sladek shares the unforgettable story of how he and his parents survived the Holocaust, while many other members of their extended family perished. "Escape to the Tatras" culminates in the story of Sladek's folk music career, performing alongside Judy Collins and Odetta. The interview coincides with Holocaust Remembrance Day.

County clerks met this week to discuss ongoing efforts to ensure election transparency and integrity in Colorado. Then, developments in the trials of those involved in the death of Elijah McClain in Aurora. And, Systemic explores why so many Black teachers are leaving the profession.

A Colorado Matters special about Coloradans with long Covid: Many say everyday tasks like showering, reading and exercise have become monumental. We hear their stories and give them an opportunity to ask questions of a physician who specializes in the condition. Then, two researchers on the cutting edge of understanding long Covid and finding treatments.

Robin Farris is the first Black woman to receive a form of clemency in Colorado in thirty years. CPR race, diversity and equity reporter Elaine Tassy spoke with her and her attorneys, as well as the sisters of Beatrice King, who was killed, about the possibility of early release. Then, one teen's take on mental health in schools. And a Colorado Wonders question about the state's songs.

Would you pay a premium for a primetime dinner reservation? At the start of a new year, we check in with longtime Denver restaurateur-turned-consultant John Imbergamo. Restaurants continue to adapt in the face of inflation, COVID, and labor & supply shortages. Then, homeowners struggle to rebuild after the Marshall fire. And award-winning chef Caroline Glover on a Napoleonic comfort food.

Metro Denver saw a record January snowstorm, although it wasn't the snowmageddon some were braced for. So what's the interplay between weather and climate? It's something we navigate each month with Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Mike Nelson. Then, Systemic explores equity in school, as a mother and educator fights for her child's safety.

Continuing our exploration of emerging treatments for mental health challenges, we look at promising help for people with obsessive compulsive disorder -- and how that same treatment might work for addictions. Then, Black babies --and those who birth them -- are dying in record numbers in Colorado. A Denver organization is working to raise awareness of the issue.

Governor Jared Polis says housing is the key to just about everything: the cost of living, transportation, health. And he plans an overhaul of land-use policy. Colorado Matters senior host Ryan Warner also asks about gun laws, migrants, hospital profits, and state spending. Then, what recent migrant arrivals might indicate about the state of immigration policy.

A new president, Amy Parsons, will soon lead Colorado State University. We'll ask about her priorities and the challenges of recruiting a diverse student body. Then, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s influence in places around the world, including Northern Ireland. And, the people who shine shoes at DIA. Also, hip hop music from the American South.