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Colorado Edition: The Story Behind The Blue Book

Ashley Jefcoat
/
KUNC

Today on Colorado Edition: We learn the origins of the blue ballot information booklet that gets sent to Colorado voters ahead of the election. We’ll also hear how people with gardens are helping people without stable access to food. Plus, we get a look at a unique orchestra that’s beginning to find its way back to the stage and we’ll see how the cannabis industry has kept profits high during the pandemic.

The Origin Story Of Colorado’s Blue State Ballot Information Booklet

Ballots will begin to be mailed to Colorado’s voters next Friday, Oct. 9. But one thing you’ve probably already received in the mail is a thick publication known as the Blue Book. Colorado voters are often asked to weigh in on some complicated issues, so every statewide election, before ballots go out, voters get this booklet in the mail to help them study the issues and make informed choices. KUNC’s state Capitol reporter Scott Franz joined us with more about the book, its history and how it gets produced.

Gardeners Help Folks With Food

The loss of work and COVID-19 are factors behind an uptick in food insecurity. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities said 8% of adults in Colorado didn’t have enough to eat in July. And 12% said they didn’t have enough money to feed their children. State and federal programs can help, but as KUNC’s Stephanie Daniel reports, people are also using their gardens to support their neighbors in need.

Back To The Stage

It’s well-documented that music can be medicinal, improving brain function and lowering stress. But when you’re an essential worker during a pandemic, taking time out for music can be tough. KUNC arts reporter Stacy Nick met up with a unique orchestra that’s just beginning to find its way back to the stage.

Cannabis: A Pandemic-Proof Industry?

The numbers are in, and even during this pandemic and the economic fallout, it turns out that Colorado’s cannabis industry is doing fine... or even better than fine. Lucas High, a reporter with BizWest, joined us to discuss how the cannabis industry has managed to grow through the pandemic.

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:

  • “Le Marais” by The Sweet Hots

Colorado Edition is hosted by Erin O'Toole (@ErinOtoole1) and Henry Zimmerman, and produced by Lily Tyson. The web was edited by digital editor Jackie Hai. KUNC news director Brian Larson is our executive producer. We get production help from Rae Solomon.

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.

Related Content
  • Today on Colorado Edition: we’ll hear about the ballot question that asks voters about whether or not Colorado should have a statewide paid family leave program. We also learn about childcare shortages, and a newly created principals union. Finally, we’ll look at a volunteer wilderness ranger program.
  • Today on Colorado Edition: We look ahead to Tuesday night’s presidential debate in Ohio. We’ll also learn about two upcoming ballot measures in Colorado: one about reintroducing gray wolves to our state, and the other about the ever-complicated Gallagher Amendment. Lastly, we’ll hear about a critical shortage of substitute teachers around our state.
  • Today on a special episode of Colorado Edition: we've teamed up with 1A Across America for a series exploring election issues leading up to November. Today we look at two of the ballot questions that Colorado voters will have a say on in November — Propositions 113 and 118.