Colorado Edition

Today on Colorado Edition: As the first COVID-19 vaccines are distributed, we examine the logistics of inoculating staff and residents of long-term care facilities. We learn more about how lithium-ion batteries can help power a renewable energy future – but mining for the metal may be cause for environmental concern across the Mountain West. As more people than ever are choosing national parks to recharge during the pandemic, we look at the noisy toll that’s taking on those resources. And we’ll explore a rare celestial conjunction that will be at its peak on Dec. 21.

Today on Colorado Edition: We explore the impact of recent police reform efforts in the state, and what might be next on the horizon. We hear about how restaurants are trying to stay afloat amid COVID-19 health restrictions this winter, and how one small western Colorado community is finding a way to keep people dining comfortably outdoors. And we look at how traditional shopping malls, which had been struggling even before the pandemic, may have to find new ways to operate.

Today on Colorado Edition: Teachers are expected to be able to get the COVID-19 vaccine some time in the spring, but some are calling for educators to be moved to a higher priority. We'll learn more about that, and hear why the start of the new year may be tough for many jobless Coloradans who have relied on federal unemployment benefits during the pandemic. We'll also explore a Great Basin cave to learn what it tells us about global warming. And we get some tips from a seasoned runner on how to jog outdoors during the winter months.

Much of Colorado now has snow on the ground, so if you’re looking for a creative, outdoor, socially distanced activity, why not build a snowman? Steve Mercia, a competitive snow sculptor and founder of the Berthoud Snowfest, joined Colorado Edition to share some creative tips on leveling up your snowman game.

Today on Colorado Edition: Latinos in Colorado have been deeply and relentlessly affected by the pandemic. We look at two big issues facing their community, including mental health and contact tracing. And with restaurant takeout bigger than ever, we take a look at solutions to the large amount of packing waste that’s being generated. Finally, we’ll hear from KUNC’s film critic about the film Ammonite.

Today on Colorado Edition: As the state prepares to receive its first shipment of coronavirus vaccines, we’ll hear the plan for how those first doses will be rolled out. Lawmakers in a recent special session swiftly approved pandemic relief for Coloradans. We look at why it may take months to get that funding into the hands of small business owners. We’ll explore how tribal councils across the Mountain West are making progress toward gender equality. And, we dive into new research that looks at how time spent in outer space affects the human body.

Today on Colorado Edition: We’ll learn more about a lawsuit from the ACLU of Colorado alleging the state isn’t doing enough to protect vulnerable people in the prison system from the coronavirus. We’ll hear about the complex challenges facing unemployed Coloradans who are searching for benefits. Plus, we'll look at the debate surrounding standardized testing in an exceptionally difficult school year. And, we’ll explore the history of outdoor holiday lights, rumored to have started right here in Colorado.

Today on Colorado Edition: As the state prepares to receive the first shipment of COVID-19 vaccines, we’ll look at questions around who should be among the first to get them. We hear about how a decline in one of the Colorado River’s largest reservoirs is presenting rafters with a unique opportunity. We’ll also look at how unemployed Coloradans are navigating the market for health insurance, and we’ll hear about a program helping people experiencing homelessness in western Colorado.

Today on Colorado Edition: We’ll look at some of the many challenges the pandemic is creating for hospitals - from preparing for a potential surge in people hospitalized with COVID-19, to finding enough staff to care for patients. We’ll recap this week’s special legislative session focused on coronavirus relief for Coloradans. Plus, we’ll learn about a plan from the state forest service to address wildfire risk, and hear about a public outreach program aimed at spreading kindness.

Today on Colorado Edition: We talk with the state’s commissioner of agriculture about a program to create stability and resilience in the industry. We’ll learn about the toll that COVID-19 has taken on wages, and get the perspective of a Larimer County commissioner who says some coronavirus restrictions go too far. Plus, we’ll hear from a Northern Colorado man who’s doing what he can to spread joy during the pandemic, one dumpling at a time.