Today on Colorado Edition: We learn more about how Coloradans are following social distancing practices. We also take a look at changes in the airline industry and how they impact small airports in our state. Plus, we explore how the coronavirus pandemic could lead to a suicide epidemic, and we discuss adjusting field research to factor in health measures.
Are Coloradans Staying Away From Each Other?
It’s now been three weeks since Colorado’s stay-at-home order was lifted, and we’ve moved into the less restrictive safer-at-home phase. To learn more about how well Coloradans are following social distancing practices, and what the models say about future cases of COVID-19 in our state, we spoke with Dr. Jonathan Samet. He is the dean of the Colorado School of Public Health.
Small Mountain Airlines To See Less Traffic
Last week, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that airlines would be allowed to stop serving some airports. Airlines had been pushing the department for weeks to make the move, after flying near-empty flights to small airports across the country, including ones in Aspen, Eagle, Gunnison and Steamboat Springs. Jason Blevins has been reporting on this for the Colorado Sun, and joined us to discuss how the change will impact small airlines in our state.
COVID-19 And Suicide
The global coronavirus pandemic is putting a strain on Americans’ mental health. Calls to crisis lines are on the rise in many states, including Colorado. Add to that a surge in gun sales, and experts say we may be at risk of a suicide epidemic. Heath Druzin brings us that story. And a note to our listeners, this story deals with the topic of suicide.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
How Does Field Research Work During A Pandemic?
To learn more about how field research has changed, and will change, due to the coronavirus pandemic, we spoke with Brett Wolk, an assistant director of the Colorado Forest Restoration Institute at Colorado State University.
Colorado Edition is made possible with support from our KUNC members. Thank you!
Our theme music was composed by Colorado musicians Briana Harris and Johnny Burroughs. Other music in the show by Blue Dot Sessions:
- "Throughput" by Holyoke
- "The Wooden Platform" by The Bulwark
- "Only Lonesome" by Calumet
Colorado Edition is hosted by Erin O'Toole (@ErinOtoole1) and Henry Zimmerman (@HWZimmerman), and produced by Lily Tyson. The web was edited by digital editor Jackie Hai. Managing editor Brian Larson contributed to this episode.
KUNC's Colorado Edition is a news magazine taking an in-depth look at the issues and culture of Northern Colorado. It's available on our website, as well as on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can hear the show on KUNC's air, Monday through Thursday at 6:30 p.m.