Kunc's Colorado Edition

Despite overall increases in Latino college enrollment over the years, large gaps in attainment still persist. One group in Weld County is organizing funds to help women pay for classes and earn their degrees.

Today on Colorado Edition, we hear why a panel of medical experts concluded that a common justification used by paramedics to sedate people has racist implications. We also learn how climate change is impacting fruit-growing across the Western Slope. And, we get the latest on a lawsuit challenging a federal workplace vaccination mandate.

Today on Colorado Edition, we listen back to our favorite stories about two Fort Collins homes with important historical legacies. One is the home of Virgil Thomas, the first known African American to graduate from a Fort Collins high school. The other is an adobe-style home that belongs to the Cordova family, who have lived in Fort Collins for 100 years.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn about the expiration of federal pandemic-related paid time off, leaving employees feeling pressured to show up at work. We also hear how the federal infrastructure bill aims to stem the tide of firefighters leaving the field due to low pay and benefits. And we talk about a group that aims to make hiking inclusive for people with all body types.

Today on Colorado Edition, we talk to early childhood educators about how they’ve been impacted by the ongoing pandemic. And we learn how the end of wildfire season can impact the mental health of firefighters.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn about the four main numbers scientists are using to measure drought. We also hear how Coloradans rallied to save one of the oldest synagogues in the Mountain West, and we learn about the growing industry of green technology.

Today on Colorado Edition, we explore the history of Sundown Towns across the Mountain West, and learn how racism and discrimination in the past still impacts residents of color who live there today.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn about efforts to combat the stigma of opioid addiction. And we hear about a lawsuit challenging Colorado’s ban on Native American school mascots.

Today on Colorado Edition, we hear about upcoming changes to the police and fire departments in Aurora. We also learn about the first nuclear plant that will use Natrium technology, and hear what happens to oil and gas wells when their producers go bankrupt.

Every month, the RiNo Mural Program in Denver’s River North Arts District pays local artists to create community installations. In celebration of Native American Heritage month, three Indigenous artists in Colorado have painted works exploring cultural representation and identity. Colorado Edition spoke with the artists about their murals, and the connection between artistic expression and social change.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn why one species of fish native to the Colorado River is no longer on the endangered list. We also learn about a new set of policy recommendations aimed at protecting Colorado’ big game populations, and hear why many Western cities are recording some of the worst air quality levels on the planet.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn why an increasing number of Colorado universities are becoming Hispanic-serving institutions. And, we hear about efforts to rename natural landmarks that bear offensive titles.

Today on Colorado Edition, we hear why some Coloradans are returning to the small farming communities they planned to leave behind. And, we learn about a new initiative to increase the hiring rates for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Today on Colorado Edition, we speak to Jenny Shank about her new book, Mixed Company, that celebrates diverse voices and perspectives in the city of Denver.

Today on Colorado Edition, we hear what Northern Colorado veterans from the War on Terror are thinking about the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Then we hear about two WWII veterans who were recently given the recognition they deserve.

Today on Colorado Edition, we get an update on COVID-19 safety measures in Northern Colorado. We also learn why Denver is vying to be a host city for the 2026 Men’s FIFA World Cup.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn how Colorado hospitals are grappling with the latest surge of COVID-19. We also hear how schools are dealing with staffing shortages, and the drastic measures some are now forced to take.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn how public schools in the Greeley-Evans district are grappling with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. And we learn about a new collective that seeks to make entertainment events safer and more uplifting.

Today on Colorado Edition, we learn how Gov. Jared Polis plans to spend the state’s recently unveiled budget proposal. And we learn how some oil and gas companies in Colorado are able to skirt methane emission rules.

Today on Colorado Edition, we get an update on the spread COVID-19 cases in Northern Colorado. Then, we learn how schools are acknowledging the role trauma can play in students' lives. And we speak to a rural transgender high school student about documenting his experiences in a photo essay.