21 El Paso County Sheriff Candidate Forum – October 6, 2022
Hear from County Sheriff candidate John Foley. Both candidates accepted the invitation to this forum, however Joseph Roybal later reported a conflict and did not attend.
Two Chicano Warriors Fight Southern Colorado Battles
In this Indigenous Peoples’ Day conversation, Joe Barrera and George Autobee discuss the truth about Christopher Columbus and share heartfelt stories about serving in Vietnam and the physical and emotional combat wounds.
Arts Month October 2022
Walk, don’t run, to the virtual buffet of cultural activities happening during Arts Month in Colorado Springs.
93: Colorado Water Plan 2023
An update on the Colorado Water Plan from Jeff Rodriguez, Regional Water Coordination Specialist with the Colorado Water Conservation Board.
Blues on the Mesa 2022
“Steady Rollin” Bob Margolin joins Amy and George Whitesell for a sneak preview of music and details about the music festival at Gold Hill Mesa on October 1, 2022.
What If Festival of Innovation & Imagination 2022
Leave your inhibitions at home and unleash your creativity at the What IF Festival in downtown Colorado Springs on Saturday, September 10.
92: Green Standards for Stormwater Infrastructure
Stormwater management is a critical environmental concern for a large urban area like Colorado Springs.
Music at the Indy: Ryan Flores
Get to know Colorado Springs musician Ryan Flores, and hear him perform three original songs.
91: Native Plants Support a Healthy Watershed
Learn about the newly revived Kathleen Marriage Garden at Sondermann Park, and how you can incorporate native plants into your landscape and help support a healthy watershed.
The Way – by David Flanagan
Self-esteem, purpose, social justice and emotional intelligence are among the topics, as are empathy, charity and compassion.
Music at the Indy: Joe Johnson and Grant Sabin
Get to know Colorado Springs musicians Joe Johnson and Grant Sabin, and hear them perform three original songs.
Summer of Music: Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative
Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative Executive Director (and MeadowGrass director) Nicole Nicoletta sat down with Dave Gardner at the MeadowGrass Music Festival to debrief on the festival and to share details of other live, local music events planned for the summer.
13 Cycle to the Summit of America’s Mountain
Whether you’re a world class athlete, a weekend warrior or an ebiker who has ever dreamed of taking it on, you’ll want to bicycle up 14er Pikes Peak in the Broadmoor Cycle to the Summit after listening to this episode.
90: Conserving Water at Home
A dry winter, long-term drought, and record low levels in major Colorado River reservoirs have all of us wondering what we can do to minimize our water consumption.
12 719 Ride – A Homegrown Cycling Challenge of Epic Proportions
If you’re looking for a true Colorado challenge to test yourself against the climbs and altitude of Colorado, look no further than the 719 Ride.
MeadowGrass Music Festival This Weekend
The MeadowGrass Music Festival starts this Friday, May 27 and features live Americana Music under the sun and stars through Sunday.
89: Our Water System and Meeting Future Demand
How will Colorado Springs meet its water needs for the next 50 years?
Music at the Indy: Harry Mo and the Cru
Get to know Colorado Springs reggae band Harry Mo and the CRU, and hear them perform three original songs.
11 SRAM and the Power of Bicycles
SRAM, the parent company for bicycle parts brands like RockShox, Truvativ, Zipp, Quarq, Time and Hammerhead, is much more than a company that builds bike parts; they’re community builders.
11 Child Abuse Prevention Month
Help for children experiencing abuse is discussed, since April is child abuse prevention month.
Gone Dark
Colorado Springs Utilities’ new fiber network is sparking questions about transparency, bidding practices and the model chosen.
20 Judge Regina Walter – Community Leader Making a Difference
We continue one-on-one conversations with community leaders we met at the 2022 Love the League event.
88: City of Colorado Springs Sustainability Efforts
Colorado Springs Sustainability Coordinator Samantha Bailey fills us in on her current efforts, the new SustainableCOS project, and her goals for the future of Colorado Springs.
19 Growth! Planning for the Future of Colorado Springs
Two city planners for the City of Colorado Springs share highlights about the city’s new comprehensive plan and proposed zoning updates.
2022 Superintendents Panel
Hear from superintendents of six local school districts in a panel discussion hosted by The Colorado Springs Business Journal.
10 Prison Re-Entry: How to Ease a Rough Transition
We speak with a dynamic leader who not only knows how hard the transition is from prison to community at a community level, he knows it from a personal level. too.
18: Kristen Faith – Community Leader Making a Difference
Kristen Faith discusses why she founded Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence and shares about The Nonprofit Makeover and Boss Babe Networking.
17 Dr. Wendy Birhanzel – Community Leader Making a Difference
Dr. Wendy Birhanzel, Superintendent of Harrison School District 2, shares valuable perspectives about engaging our youth, and some impressive initiatives in D2.
16 Marcy Morrison – Community Leader Making a Difference
Manitou tea and a lot of wisdom from iconic community leader Marcy Morrison
15 Love the League 2022
It’s the League’s 102nd Birthday and this year we honored 9 Community Leaders Making a Difference.
87: Convert Your CO2 Emissions into Energy Savings and Pollution Reduction for Families in Need
Learn how to calculate the carbon footprint of some of your common activities and convert that it into work that reduces overall carbon emissions.
14 Health Equity in Colorado and El Paso County
Dr. Kristine Hembre, Dr. Radhika Nath and Anne Beer share their knowledge about the status and challenges of achieving health equity.
24 Meet the Fine Arts Center’s New Heads of Museum and Theater – SPECIAL EPISODE
Meet two exciting new leaders at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College.
MeadowGrass Music Festival 2022
Live music under the stars on Memorial Day Weekend – get to know MeadowGrass Music Festival 2022.
7 Resolutions, The Mind Body Connection and The Immune System
Why do resolutions fail, and how can you be successful?
86: Pups and Packs: Protecting Wolves in 2022
Get the state of the science and public policy related to wolves in the U.S. today.
13 Health Equity
We chat with Dr. Kristine Hembre about Health Equity & Inequity, the League’s monthly meeting coming up on January 22nd about Health Equity.
23 Philharmonic Comeback Celebration
The meaning of “comeback”, resilience, and live performance in a pandemic are explored in this wide-ranging conversation ahead of the Philharmonic’s Comeback Celebration concerts on Jan. 15-16.
Jill Gaebler and Jan Martin Ring in 2022
A roundup of noteworthy local happenings from two former Colorado Springs city councilors who return to the studio after a 4-year break.
85: Arts Vision 2030
An introduction to Arts Vision 2030, the new cultural plan to support arts and culture in the Pikes Peak Region.
10 Winter Biking Tips
When the snow hits and the temperatures dip, winter doesn’t have to mean the end to your biking season.
22 Studio Tour with Karen Mosbacher
Get a personal studio tour with Karen Mosbacher at Cottonwood Center for the Arts, and be inspired to buy gifts from local makers this holiday season
84: Car-Free Transportation in the Pikes Peak Region
Learn about opportunities to lower your carbon footprint by getting around town without a car.
Community Conversation: Real Estate Nov 2021
What is the state of commercial real estate in the Pikes Peak Region today?
9 That eBike Smile!
Get the lowdown on electric bike offerings in the Springs from our local ebike share program to a full service ebike delivery and outfitting service.
8 School for Bike Mechanics
If you’re looking to break into or hone your craft as a bicycle mechanic, we’re talking with those in the know about what it’s like to go to the U of Q school for bike mechanics right here in Colorado Springs.
12 Women’s Suffrage Equity Wall-Scape Mural Celebration
The “soft” dedication of a mural by Shanah Cooley on a wall at Palmer High School between Boulder Street and Nevada Avenue.
83: Environmental Design Projects: Integrating Social, Financial, and Legal Systems
What should be considered in designing projects to address environmental issues, and how can we best integrate these?
Community Conversation: Insurance
Everything you want to know about business and personal insurance.
11 Ballot Issues Forum Oct 23 2021
Ballot issues in the November 2021 election are discussed by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region.
D20 Candidate Forum Oct 14 2021
Hear from candidates campaigning for three open seats on the Academy District 20 (ASD20) Board of Education (BOE).
Community Conversation: Non-Profits
Running a non-profit is not all heart and no head, as Teddy Rosendo says in this conversation about managing non-profits and philanthropy in today’s climate.
9 Breaking Down What Critical Race Theory Is & Isn’t
Dr. Nathaniel Granger, Jr. and Mr. Anton Schulzki discuss Critical Race Theory – what it is, and what it isn’t.
Coffee Connect: Combating Vaccine Hesitancy
What do local medical experts have to say about safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines, masking, mandates and especially hesitancy to get vaccinated?
82: Profiting from the Peak
How and why has Colorado Springs grown to be the second largest city in Colorado, and what are the environmental implications of this?
Superintendents Panel Sept 23 2021
How are area school districts addressing staffing and budget challenges, COVID protocols, politics, diversity and other divisive social issues?
8 Manitou Springs Election Forum Oct 11 2021
Learn about your choices in Manitou Springs for the November 2, 2021 election.
7 D49 Board of Education Candidate Forum Oct 6 2021
Get to know the candidates running for board of education in Falcon District 49.
6 D20 Board of Education Candidate Forum Oct 5 2021
Hear from candidates campaigning for three open seats on the Academy District 20 (ASD20) Board of Education (BOE).
21 Painting the Front Range in Monument
In celebration of Arts Month 2021, the community of Monument is invited to Monument Lake to help paint a mural of the Front Range designed by local artist, Lawson Barney.
81: Creek Week 2021 and the Watershed
Creek Week events give you an opportunity to take care of our local water resource.
20 Blues on the Mesa Festival
In celebration of Arts Month 2021, A Music Company Inc. is producing a one day blues music festival, Blues on the Mesa, featuring national and regional artists.
Thoughts Captured During August Music at the Indy
We roamed the crowd at the August Music at the Indy, to find out what’s on the minds of the people of Colorado Springs as summer 2021 winds down.
9 Affordable Housing in Colorado Springs
What are the top affordable housing issues and what is being done to address these in Colorado Springs?
19 Front Range Open Studios + Monument Art Hop
Monument, Colorado has a lively arts community that will be showcased at two local events in the coming week – Front Range Open Studios (Sept. 11-12) and Monument Art Hop (Sept 16).
80: Quality of Life Indicators – Local Government Council Report
How do our local city and county governments compare to other communities in Colorado and the nation?
Community Conversation: Human Resources
Get up to date on current employment laws and regulations in this July 30, 2021 Community Conversation.
5 Get Out Your Calendars! Lots Going On with LWVPPR
Women’s Equality Day Potluck Picnic, Critical Race Theory Discussion, Candidate Forums, School Board Elections & more.
Community Conversation: Economic Recovery
The economy is coming back – what does recovery look like now and what might it look like in the future?
79: Quality of Life Indicators: Demographics
The Demographics council of the Peak Progress Quality of Life Indicators Report share the contributions they’re making to the next version of the report.
4 American Exile Documentary – Veterans Deported
Veterans are being deported, and we can do something about it, but aren’t.
Mayors Panel 2021
Learn how communities of Southern Colorado can be, and are, working together to benefit the entire region.
7 High Altitude Advantage
Find out more about what attracts world class athletes to come and train in Colorado Springs and the amenities that make our City unique and can inspire you to new cycling heights!
Community Conversation: Health Care
How has health care philanthropy managed during the pandemic, and how does it fit into the local business scene?
3 El Paso County Election Integrity & Transparency (Part 3 of 3)
How can we improve our election systems and what can we do? Wrapping up our conversation with Harvey Branscomb, ElectionQuality.com.
2 El Paso County Election Integrity & Transparency (Part 2 of 3)
Security flaws, Dominion Voting Systems and more transparency as we continue the conversation with Harvey Branscomb, Election Quality.com.
18 Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill by Theatreworks
Come ON STAGE with us before dress rehearsal of THEATREWORKS’ new production of “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill”, running July 15-August 1 at Ent Center for the Arts.
1 El Paso County Election Integrity & Transparency (Part 1 of 3)
Why is El Paso County conducting a 3rd review, its 2nd audit, of 2020 election results at a cost to you, the taxpayers?
Making Democracy Work Coming Soon
Join us as we enlighten ourselves and look for better and better ways to make democracy work.
Caring for the Homeless Population of Colorado Springs
We discuss myths about people experiencing homelessness, what Homeward Pikes Peak is doing for the population, and Pikes Peak Library District’s efforts to help the homeless crisis.
8 Library for the People
Today’s library is not just about books anymore, it is a vital hub where community, people, art, and technology intersect.
Be More Like June Waller
A short chat with June Waller, local community activist & League of Women Voters member, about what is going on and how you can get more involved in our community and the League.
78: New El Paso County Master Plan
Get a tour of the new El Paso County Master Plan recently adopted by the county commissioners.
17 Boot Barn Hall
The newly-opened Boot Barn Hall is already wowing audiences with its impressive venue in the rapidly changing North Gate area of Colorado Springs, Colorado.
A 2021 Summer Night
We roamed the crowd at the first Music at the Indy, to find out what’s on the minds of the people of Colorado Springs as we kick off summer of 2021.
Making Democracy Work News – June 24
Get the latest League of Women Voters news, and learn about some exciting upcoming podcast episodes.
16 Green Box Arts Festival
Join us live in beautiful Green Mountain Falls, CO as this summer’s Green Box Arts Festival begins.
77: Environmental Education in Colorado
How do we ensure all Colorado children are engaged in outdoor learning experiences?
Build Back Stronger: Workforce Development for Women
Today, we’re chatting with Traci Marques with the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and Katherine Keegan with the Colorado Dept of Labor and Environment about Build Back Stronger in Colorado.
2021 Juneteenth Festival
This year’s Juneteenth celebration in Colorado Springs promises to be bigger and better.
15 Colorado College Mobile Arts
The arts are hitting the streets of our community in a new way thanks to Colorado College’s new Mobile Arts program!
Community Conversation: Banking
What you need to know about the Payroll Protection Plan, and the latest banking regulations – for large and small businesses.
14 The Art of Weidner Field
A creative look at the state-of-the-art new stadium (and art) at Weidner Field in Downtown Colorado Springs.
6 Creating Community with Bikes & Beer: Trails End Taproom & Routes Outfitter
The lowdown on one of the most popular hangouts for trail lovers in the Springs, the Trails End Taproom – and one of the best outdoor fitness social clubs and gatherings around – Trails End Trailblazers.
Community Conversation: Marketing
How do you stay top of mind for your clients, and how can you impact and increase sales as the pandemic ends?
76: Backyard Gardens and Local Food
Why do we need to grow more of our own food?
Community Conversation: Retirement
Learn how to prepare for retirement: options for saving, investing and how to choose a retirement living facility for yourself or for your family member.
Public Space Design for Public Health Equity
What needs to change to make our city center safe and healthy for all?
75: Creating a Community Built Park: You Can Do It!
An ambitious new project near downtown is cleaning up an old construction materials dump and turning it into an amazing community treasure.
74: Going Solar Made Easy – Solar United Neighbors
A new non-profit co-op is working in Colorado to help people go solar, simplifying the process and reducing costs.
13 Counterweight Theatre Lab’s “Dream by Day”
A new outdoor theatrical experience in downtown Colorado Springs April 9-18 Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
12 Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
Learn about tours and events at the beautiful Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center sanctuary in Divide, CO
How to Retain Your Community’s Soul During Rapid Development
On the eve of Colorado Springs’ sesquicentennial, what does our city need to thrive in the next 150 years?
73: Jack’s Solar Garden
Boulder County told Byron Kominek you cannot put solar panels on agricultural land; it violates zoning. But Byron persisted.
11 New Manitou Springs Library
Explore the new PPLD – Manitou Springs Library inside of Manitou Art Center and all of the new creative benefits available to library cardholders thanks to this partnership!
72: Why the Climate Crisis is a Concern for Conservatives
Explore the good reasons for political conservatives to be concerned about the climate crisis in this conversation with the Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL).
2021 City Council Candidate Forums
Here’s help deciding which candidate earns your vote. The deadline to turn in your ballot is 7 pm April 6, 2021.
2021 City Council Candidate Forum D5
Hear from candidates for Colorado Springs City Council District 5 in the April 6, 2021 election.
2021 City Council Candidate Forum D4
Hear from candidates for Colorado Springs City Council District 4 in the April 6, 2021 election.
2021 City Council Candidate Forum D3
Hear from candidates for Colorado Springs City Council District 3 in the April 6, 2021 election.
2021 City Council Candidate Forum D2
Hear from candidates for Colorado Springs City Council District 2 in the April 6, 2021 election.
2021 City Council Candidate Forum D1
Hear from candidates for Colorado Springs City Council District 1 in the April 6, 2021 election.
City Center Series: Equity in Transportation
How do we ensure the benefits of active multimodal transit are accessible to ALL citizens?
71: A New Era for the Bureau of Land Management?
What steps can the Biden administration take to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Bureau of Land Management to better address its conservation and climate change goals?
70: Colorado Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap
Will Toor shares a summary of State projects, activities, and initiatives, and the Colorado Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Pollution Reduction Roadmap.
Community Conversation: Cybersecurity
Learn how you can keep your business safe as scams, phishing attacks and other cyber crime grows more sophisticated.
69: Drake is Closing – Now What?
What can you do to create a sustainable, just, and carbon-free city?
10 Fakes and Forgeries Art Show & Sale
We visit Alvarez Gallery & Art School in Colorado Springs for a look at their “Fakes and Forgeries” Art Show & Sale with owner and local artist, Chris Alvarez
Healthcare Inequities During the Time of COVID with Emily Maney and Maggie Youkhana from El Paso County Health Department
Today, we’re chatting with Emily Maney and Maggie Youkhana from El Paso County Health Department on healthcare, and healthcare inequalities, in the El Paso county region.
Community Conversation: Restaurants
What challenges face the local restaurant business – both before and during COVID?
Talent Development in the City Center
A panel of Colorado Springs tech industry leaders talk with Bitwise co-CEOs Irma Olguin and Jake Soberal about what it takes to equitably develop local talent in a way that builds success for all.
Community Conversation: Community – Homelessness
How can we best address the challenge of reducing the number of people in the Pikes Peak Region who are homeless?
68: Northern Water’s Regional Water Efficiency Program
Frank Kinder, Water Efficiency Program Manager for Northern Water, updates us on the conservation work of this regional water provider.
9 20th Annual Chinese New Year Celebration
We’re live with Rhonda Maehara to hear about how Colorado Springs Chinese Cultural Institute is adapting their 20th Annual Chinese New Year Celebration to be a virtual feast of Asian culture, starting Saturday, Feb. 6/1
Community Conversation: Health in Home Care
Local in-home health care executive Kathy Miller of Gentle Shepherd Home Care discusses running a senior home care business in these times of COVID.
Love the League on February 14 2021
Celebrating 101 years (LWVUS) with Dr. Carolyn Jefferson-Jenkins
67: Colorado College Students Take Local Action
Colorado College students demonstrate just how engaged and activated their generation can be.
Community Conversation: Real Estate
Local experts discuss the real estate market, COVID and where the top is on Colorado Springs’ rising home prices.
Where Are We as a Country? As a Community?
Was this domestic terrorism, an insurrection, a coup, white supremacists?
Women Bear the Brunt of COVID’s Impact with Dena T. Smith, Mileah Kromer, and Louise Myrland
How women are handling, or not handling the pandemic.
66: Sustainable Holiday
The holidays are coming and that means shopping, gifts, and food. Do you approach the holidays mindful of the environmental impact of all these activities?
Music & Dance Week
In this episode, we tune in to the music scene and dance community of the Pikes Peak region with interviews and performances that will get your toes tapping!
Women Making Change with Stephany Rose Spaulding
Stephany Rose Spaulding talks about her work in the Colorado Springs area, and what she sees for the future – including her Truth and Conciliation project.
65: Does This Flight Make My Footprint Look Big?
Flying, driving, bus, train, bicycle, on foot, even staycations. What do we need to know to make responsible decisions about the way we move about? Dave Gardner, host of the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living, shares data and tools to guide us.
After the Election: What Can I Do?
Feel good now that you voted and posted a selfie with your I Voted sticker? Think that’s all there is to being an active and engaged citizen?
64: New Energy Plan
Christian Nelson and Michael Avanzi of Colorado Springs Utilities share the future of energy production in our community.
Poetry, Prose & Comedy Week
We listen in to the literary, poetic, and laugh-out-loud funny creativity of the Pikes Peak region in this fourth episode of our special 5-week series for Arts Month 2020!
Theatre & Film Week
In this episode, the Pikes Peak region’s theater and film scene are in the spotlight, with interviews and multimedia that will leave you applauding.
Visual & Culinary Arts Week
Savor the visual and culinary arts scene in the Pikes Peak region with interviews and features so good you can taste them … almost!
Arts Month Overview
Everything in 2020 has had to adapt to these historic times, and our region’s celebration of Arts Month has, too. In this episode, we explore those adaptations and new Arts Month features,
63: The New Energy Market
What’s happening and what can we expect in terms of how we get electricity to power our homes, business and industry? How clean can it be, and what it will cost?
VOTING Matters with June Waller, Voter Advocate
June Waller joins Mary Lou Makepeace, outside the studio for safety, to discuss her efforts to get indivdiuals registered to vote, why so many people don’t vote, and what we can do to get registered, and get more people active in running for important roles in our city.
VOTING Matters with City Clerk of Colorado Springs and County Clerk of El Paso County
The City Clerk and the County Clerk & Recorder discuss how voting works, what elections they handle, the security of our voting system, and why your vote matters.
62: Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative Kick-Off
This ceremony kicked off the Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative, in which Manitou will be planting tree guilds – natural communities of tree/plant relationships.
Issue 2B – Parkland Conveyance by Voters – Vote Yes on 2B & Don’t Vote on 2C
During Episode 3 of Making Democracy Work, we breakdown Local Issue 2B with Kent Obee, POPS (Protect Our Parks) Advocate, and we say goodbye to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Women Vote: Kaleigh O’Donnell and Mattie Gullixson – Part 2
On Empowering Pikes Peak Women, we dive into Part Two of our Women Vote series. We’ve got Kaleigh O’Donnell and Mattie Gullixson joining us today to discuss their experience with voting, both in national and local elections as a younger generation. Subscribe for more episodes, and reach out to us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen and let us…
61: Creek Week Cleanup 2020
Don’t miss the 7th annual Creek Week Cleanup, September 26 – October 4th. Every year, citizens of Southern Colorado step up, put on their environmental steward hats, and join with friends and neighbors in what’s become the largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado. In this episode, Alli Schuch shares how we can all participate this year.…
Women Vote Part 1: Rachel Stovall & Rosita Carmago
On Empowering Pikes Peak Women, we dive into Part One of our Women Vote series. We’ve got Rachel Stovall, & Rosita Camargo joining us today to discuss their experience with voting, both in national and local elections. Subscribe for more episodes, and reach out to us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen and let us know what…
Welcome to Empowering Pikes Peak Women
Welcome to our brand new podcast! Check out who we are, what we’re doing, and subscribe to our new episodes coming soon.
60: Voices for Wolves
A conversation about why Colorado needs gray wolves and why Proposition 114 is an epic opportunity to restore a natural balance – The 2020 election in Colorado is shaping up to be historic, but not for the reasons you might think. Voters in Colorado will get the chance to direct wildlife managers to reintroduce gray wolves, nearly 80 years after they were eradicated on behalf of the livestock industry.
National Popular Vote – Vote Yes on Proposition 113
A chat with Sylvia Bernstein, Coalition Coordinator for the Yes on National Popular Vote campaign. Also, hear host Shelly Roehrs’ rebuttal to false information on the National Popular Vote from letters to the editor in The Gazette. This is the second of a series of Town Square episodes, titled Making Democracy Work, from the League…
Rampant Voter Fraud! Be afraid!
With information from our neighbors, local paper (LTE’s), friends, co-workers, family & leaders about how mail-in voting is rampant with fraud, we chat with Chuck Broerman, El Paso County (CO) Clerk & Recorder about voter fraud, turnout, suppression & apathy. We also celebrate the Suffrage Centennial Milestone & Women’s Equality Day with an ask for…
EPIC Launch
Get to know EPIC, the new music organization in Colorado Springs that promises “We will NOT be another “stuffy” classical music series!” EPIC was founded right before the pandemic began this spring.
Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates Exec Director Cory Sutela is the guest
On this week’s podcast, Bob chats with Cory Sutela from Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates. They discuss recent changes in the organizations structure, their effort to get more people involved in advocacy, and much more.
First Friday August 7 2020
This episode features highlights from the August 7th First Friday gallery openings in Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs Creative District – plus the debut of Curbside Culture and a performance by My Name Is Harriett!
First Friday July 3 2020
Highlights from the July 3, 2020 gallery openings along the Creative Corridor of Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs
59: Updating the Regional Sustainability Plan
How can we improve the Pikes Peak Region 2030 Plan? Konrad Schlarbaum (director of Green Cities Coalition) discusses his recommendations for improvements to the regional sustainability plan (PPR 2030).
First Friday Live – June 2020
A behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening in the Colorado Springs arts and culture scene, with a focus on both in-person and virtual First Friday events. This is a replay of live coverage of the first hour of First Friday, co-hosted by Studio809 and Peak Radar on June 5, 2020.
58: Indigenous Land Management for Growing Food Locally
What can we learn from indigenous people about caring for the land on which we depend for our food?
First Friday Live (May 1, 2020)
This is a replay of Studio 809’s first live webcast, from May 1 of 2020. It’s a rundown of happenings during that evening’s Virtual First Friday, and a great way to find out how the Pikes Peak Region’s arts community is responding to the COVID crisis.
Check Out the New Studio 809 Online Radio Station
More about this in our next email update. Subscribe here so you don’t miss out on all the buzz. Now playing: Update Required To play the media you will need to either update your browser to a recent version or update your Flash plugin.
Peak Town Square: Downtown Colorado Springs Coronavirus Update
How are Colorado Springs’ downtown businesses weathering the COVID-19 shutdown? And how can local residents best support our local businesses?
Peak Town Square: Colorado Springs Arts, Culture & Coronavirus
Public gatherings are out of the question at least through April. Traditional ways of enjoying the arts are all out of play now. But across the country – and right here in the Pikes Peak Region – artists are finding creative ways to continue playing their important role in society.
In this episode we’re joined by Andy Vick, executive director, and Angela Seals, deputy director, of COPPeR – the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. They share what they know about the impact of the coronavirus shutdown on the arts community, how it’s adapting, what the Cultural Office is doing to help, and what area residents can do.
Peak Town Square: Meeting Critical Food Needs during Coronavirus
How is Care and Share helping to meet critical food needs in Southern Colorado during the Coronavirus shutdown? Lynne Telford, CEO of Care and Share, fills us in.
Peak Town Square: Pikes Peak Region Business, Economy & Coronavirus
How is the Colorado Springs business community responding to the Coronavirus slowdown? There is a lot going on, and an array of resources to help businesses survive this emergency.
57: The PFAS Story in El Paso County Colorado
You can’t escape toxic PFAS chemicals. They are everywhere. Get an update on what we know and what’s being done about water contamination by PFAS
Peak Town Square: Puerto Rican Nocturne Performs in March
A thought-provoking interview with the cast, director and producer of Puerto Rican Nocturne, THEATREdART’s groundbreaking premiere of a new play by local Puerto Rican playwright Jonathan Marcantoni.
56: Colorado Needs Wolves
Colorado needs Wolves – not merely to restore a natural balance or the wildness that we all seek – though wolves will do that if they are present for long enough, in sufficient numbers and with wide enough distribution – but also to ensure that we pass on a Colorado intact, with a complete suite of native wildlife, to enrich future generations.
4: Pedal the Springs Special – Pikes Peak APEX Race
Join Torie Giffin, Colorado Springs’ #1 cycling devotee and owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort and friends, as they take you on a witty and informative ride around their treasured mountain cycling escapes in her brand new podcast “Pedal The Springs.”
Peak Environment: 55 Tiny Homes, Big Questions
Big things are happening for tiny homes in Colorado Springs. Colorado Springs Principal Planner Lonna Thelan fills us in on how city planning and zoning issues affect tiny home locations, and Shelley Jensen, founder, CEO and chief community strategist of We Fortify, shares details of her first development, Working Fusion at Mill Street.
3: Mountain Biking Mecca
Join Torie Giffin, Colorado Springs’ #1 cycling devotee and owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort and friends, as they take you on a witty and informative ride around their treasured mountain cycling escapes in her brand new podcast “Pedal The Springs.”
Peak Environment: 54 Smart Cities for a Sustainable Future
Does the City of Colorado Springs have a plan in case of a Zombie Apocalypse? Find out on this episode of Peak Environment. Learn about the myriad projects and initiatives managed or assisted by the City of Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability.
53: Smokebrush Farm Feeds Mind and Spirit
Learn all about a very unique community asset. Smokebrush Farm is a small, biodynamic farm in Manitou Springs that serves as an educational model as well as a retreat center. Yoga classes, an art club, Indian dance class and artist residency programs are part of the program, which is part of the Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts.
52: Reducing Waste
Did you know less than 15% of donated clothing in the U.S. ends up in our second-hand market? Or that each cycle of a washing machine can release more than 700,000 plastic fibers into the environment? Paper and paperboard account for 29 percent of our municipal waste stream, and yard trimmings and food scraps account for another 27 percent.
51: The Dark Side of Renewable Energy
The future looks bright for renewable energy, according to Joe Jenkins, Principal at Environmental Compliance Systems LLC, but there is a dark side.
1: Rocky Mountain Rides
Join Torie Giffin, Colorado Springs’ #1 cycling devotee and owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort and friends, as they take you on a witty and informative ride around their treasured mountain cycling escapes in her brand new podcast “Pedal The Springs.”
50: Leading the Way: Libraries and Sustainability
You might be surprised at all the ways your library contributes to sound environmental stewardship. The American Library Association Council passed a resolution in 2015 on the importance of sustainable libraries.
a Place for everyone: 4 How Does Data Inform Services?
This interview with Dr. Tatiana Bailey will examine what we know through research about individuals who experience homelessness in Colorado Springs
49: Westside Community Garden
A one-of-a-kind approach to community gardening pulls out the stops on community building. Richard Mee and a few fellow community garden advocates wanted to take the “my” out of community gardening and make it “ours.” They charted new territory in their effort to launch the Westside Community Garden in Colorado Springs.
48: Air Quality in the Pikes Peak Region
learn about progress, challenges and initiatives pertaining to environmental air quality in the Pikes Peak Region
47: C Springs Energy Future Panel – Peak Environment Podfest
Colorado Springs Utilities is in the early stages of updating its EIRP – the Electric Integrated Resource Plan, a road map for the city’s electric generation mix over the coming years. Studio 809 assembled a panel of experts to educate us and offer their views on the subject.
46: Making Local Food Flourish Panel – Peak Environment Podfest
Less than 1% of our food is grown within 50 miles of Colorado Springs, estimates Larry Stebbins. Larry is one of the panelists gathered by moderator Ellen Johnson-Fay to discuss what is needed to help local food flourish in the Pikes Peak region.
45: PFAS Water Contamination Panel – Peak Environment Podfest
Is your water safe to drink? Is your soil safe to grow veggies? These questions are front of mind for many residents of the Pikes Peak region. For years, firefighting exercises at air bases in Colorado Springs used chemicals that we now know have contaminated area groundwater and are bad for our health. Find out what we know, and what’s being done about it, from an expert panel convened at the Peak Environment Podfest.
44: The Wonder of Dark Skies
Light pollution is the one pollution that costs less to solve than it does to continue polluting. It also represents a lot of wasted energy and has potential negative health effects. Plus, the lights of the city hide the wonders of the night sky from us. Clint Smith reacquaints us with what we’re missing and tells the story of how the Wet Mountain Valley (Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, CO) became the first International Dark Skies Community in Colorado.
2 Westside CARES
Food, financial and medical assistance top the list of critical services Westside CARES provides “neighbors” in need.
43: Planet in Peril – Senate Candidate Forum Part 2
Candidates for Colorado’s U.S. Senate seat up for grabs in 2020 share their positions on issues related to the climate crisis. This candidate forum was hosted by Indivisible Denver and fourteen other organizations, held at the Ent Center for the Arts in Colorado Springs on October 6, 2019. Ten candidates (links below) participated. U.S. Senator Cory Gardner and former Governor John Hickenlooper did not. This is part 2, the last half of that forum.
42: Planet in Peril – Senate Candidate Forum Part 1
Candidates for Colorado’s U.S. Senate seat up for grabs in 2020 share their positions on issues related to the climate crisis. This candidate forum was hosted by Indivisible Denver and fourteen other organizations (links below), held at the Ent Center for the Arts in Colorado Springs on October 6, 2019. Ten candidates (links below) participated. U.S. Senator Cory Gardner and former Governor John Hickenlooper did not.
41: Podcasting to Save the Planet
Learn what’s going on at the podcasting hub of the Pikes Peak region, the Studio 809 podcast collective. Over a dozen podcasts originating in the area can be found at studio809podcasts.com. Studio 809 founder Dave Gardner fills us in specifically on the environmentally focused podcasts originating in the “basement studio” – Peak Environment, the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living and The Overpopulation Podcast.
40: Sustainability in Progress – Arts in C Springs
October is Arts Month! Have at least one “arts and culture” experience this month. Art and culture have a lot of value to our community both in quality of life and economic impact. Just the non-profit arts in our region generate 153 million dollars of economic activity annually. The most recent Sustainability in Progress gathering at Ivywild School featured two speakers telling us about arts and culture happenings during Arts Month and year-round as part of a sustainable community.
a Place for everyone: 1 Housing Challenges in Colorado Springs
Who are the homeless, how did they get here, and what do they need? This inaugural episode of the podcast defines the problem of homelessness for our community – central El Paso County and Colorado Springs.
39: Creek Week 2019
What is about 40 times as heavy as a hippopotamus, 180 times as heavy as a grand piano, and 42 times as heavy as a car? Listen to this week’s episode to find out. You can pitch in to have clean, healthy waterways in the Pikes Peak Region, starting September 28, in the 2019 Creek…
38: Shave Your Utility Bill – Energy Resource Center
It’s one of the best-kept secrets in town! There is a service that can evaluate your home’s energy-efficiency and potentially trim your utility bill by 25%. Energy Resource Center is a non-profit that focuses on providing the service at no cost to families that most need the help.
37: How Should Colorado Springs Generate Its Electricity?
Coal, gas, solar, wind? How should each of these factor into our utility’s future energy plans? CSU is beginning to develop a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan (EIRP), and the utility wants your help. Michael Avanzi, Energy Planning Manager for the utility, provides an overview of the process, and Jim Riggins, president of Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society, provides an engineer’s perspective on why renewable energy is not just the wisest, most responsible generation resource, but is also now the most economical.
36: Protecting At-Risk Public Lands and Values in Central Colorado
When the Trump administration messes with Central Colorado’s public lands, the results are not pretty. Hear what’s happening and what you can do to help protect our “Big Back Yard.”
Active for Justice: #3 Gun Violence – Not One More
Colorado Springs needs to have some conversations, changes, and healing in the aftermath of the death of De’Von Bailey – shot in the back on August 3 as he ran from two police officers. Community members gathered for dialogue in this “listening session” at the Sand Creek Library on August 19, 2019.
35: Glimpse of Manitou at Green Drinks
Manitou Springs has a rich history, and is taking action on climate change. If you missed the July 2019 Green Drinks event at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, this episode is the next best thing to being there. Michael Miao gives us the lowdown on this museum, and Manitou Mayor Ken Jaray shares about a proposed Manitou resolution for city action to reduce the city’s net carbon footprint.
34: Voices of Sustainability from Sustain-a-Fest 2019
If you missed Sustain-a-Fest, this is the next best thing to being there. Over 50 exhibitors and hundreds of Colorado Springs residents and visitors converged on Acacia Park July 27 to crank up the volume on sustainable living. In this episode, Peak Environment Co-Producer Dave Gardner visits with several exhibitors and with Ryan Trujillo, the city’s Innovation & Sustainability Manager to bring us perspectives and stories of sustainability efforts in the Springs.
33: Developing Ecological Stewards: Catamount Institute
When kids put their hands in the dirt and connect with nature, the results are awesome. Catamount Institute is dedicated to connecting kids with nature and helping them develop into ecological stewards. In this episode, recorded at the July Green Drinks event of the Green Cities Coalition, we learn about the activities of Catamount Institute and Generation Wild, a special Colorado program to provide nature experiences for youth.
32: Navigating Climate Chaos Resiliently
Pikes Peak Permaculture leaders Brian Fritz and Becky Elder sit down with Carolyn Baker for an intimate conversation about finding ways to live well as we observe and experience climate disruption, species extinction, and the many other effects of humankind living outside planetary boundaries.
Peak Town Square 33: Celebrating Unique Places
PlanCOS kicked off its first year following approval of the Colorado Springs Comprehensive Plan update by Celebrating Unique Places. The event was held July 18, 2019 at Lincoln Center. It included libations at Goat Patch Brewery, bicycle rides courtesy of PikeRide, fire truck tours, pop-up workouts by Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, and a panel discussion with residents from different parts of the city discussing how their neighborhoods provide a sense of community.
31: Sustain-a-Fest 2019
Join the crowd and get your sustainability game on at Acacia Park in downtown Colorado Springs on Saturday, July 27, 2019. In this episode, Peak Environment co-producers Ellen Johnson-Fay and Dave Gardner are joined by Ryan Trujillo, Innovation & Sustainability Manager for the City of Colorado Springs. Ryan fills us in on the upcoming Sustain-a-Fest event, and also answers questions about the interesting activities of his office and staff.
30: State of Pikes Peak Region Sustainability
How are Pikes Peak Region sustainability efforts doing? What are the challenges, achievements, strengths, weaknesses, progress and setbacks? This episode provides a valuable history of efforts to promote sustainable policy and practice in Colorado Springs, and a snapshot of where we are today.
Town Square: 23 Examining Privilege: Citizens Project 2019 Creating Community Breakfast
The Citizens Project 2019 Creating Community Breakfast, featuring speakers from community organizations and conversations examining our privilege and ways we can use it. Idris Goodwin’s American Prom: Springs Mag interview CS Indy interview Gazette interview Spirettes band Instagram: @spirettes Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Institute Twitter: @RMWFF Instagram: rmwfilm Julissa Molina Soto: Documentary Program video by…
Council Matters: Improving City Governance – June 24 2019
Better pay? Larger staff? Separate utilities board? How can Colorado Springs City Council be improved?
Town Square: Town Hall with Pete Lee, Tony Exum, Marc Synder – June 6 2019
Legislation that was passed and not passed in Colorado’s 2019 legislative session pack the agenda in this town hall featuring Pete Lee (Senate district 11), Tony Exum, Jr. (House district 17) and Marc Snyder (House district 18).
Council Matters: Alphabet Soup: ADUs, STRs and PlanCOS – June 17 2019
Host and City Councilor Bill Murray welcomes Bob Cutter back to the guest mic, and they come out swinging.
29: Forest Gardening
You can fight Mother Nature or you can work WITH her. Forest gardening is a way of landscaping that saves time, money, water…and the planet. Learn all about this ethical style of Earth care, and how you can practice it in your own garden, from permaculturist Becky Elder. This episode is a recording of her…
Town Square: Jena Griswold CO Secretary of State – June 8 2019
The Omnibus election bill, dark money, voting machines, foreign money in Colorado politics, lobbyists, and more were on the agenda as Jena Griswold, Colorado Secretary of State, spoke on June 8.
Council Matters: How’s Our Local Economy Really Doing? – June 10 2019
Bob Cutter joins Council Matters host and City Councilor Bill Murray to take a hard and honest look at Colorado Springs’ economy.
28: Cooperatives and Solidarity Economy for Colorado Springs
Can cooperation and collaboration trump competition and profit maximization in generating community wealth? Matt Noyes, son of Chinook Bookstore founders Dick and Judy Noyes, shares his vision for the variety of ways Colorado Springs can benefit from models of cooperative organization and solidarity economy.
27: PikeRide’s Contributions to Sustainability
Everything you want to know about the PikeRide bikeshare program in Colorado Springs. How does bikesharing help us achieve the objectives of our sustainability plan (Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030)? What are the various ways it serves the needs of, and provides joy to, city residents and tourists?
26: Health and Sustainability
Everything you wanted to know about vaping, but didn’t know who to ask. How much do you know about the dangers of vaping? Did you know e-cigarettes contain toxins and carcinogens? That youth who vape are four times as likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes? That second-hand vape smoke can affect the health of bystanders? Plus, a preview of the new Children’s Hospital in Colorado Springs. Our health and the health of those in our community is an essential part of sustainability.
25: Bikesharing in Colorado Springs
Did you know there are over 200 bikes in a 12 square mile area of central Colorado Springs available for you to borrow? Over a million calories have been burned by riders on PikeRide bicycles since bikesharing began in Colorado Springs ten months ago. Jolie Nesmith, Executive Director of PikeRide Bike Share fills host Ellen Johnson-Fay in on how bikesharing works, the genesis of the bike share system in Colorado Springs, and the benefits of bikesharing.
Town Square: Governor Polis Town Hall – Colorado Springs May 4 2019
Colorado Governor Jared Polis offers his perspective on the recently concluded legislative session and his first few months in office.
24: Who Gives a Scrap?
Who Gives a Scrap is a donation based scrap store in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins that carries an impressive mix of arts, craft and hobby supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. At the April, 2019 Green Drinks, co-founders Jayne Blewitt and Lorrie Myers shared their story and how the store works.
Town Square: National Popular Vote
The history of the Electoral College and advantages of a national popular vote for U.S. President and Vice President.
SoapBox: Vaccinations – Who Should Decide? – April 29 2019
To immunize or not to immunize? Are concerns about harms from vaccinations valid, or an unfounded conspiracy theory? Should parents have the right to decide whether or not their children are vaccinated?
23: Getting the Word Out on Sustainability
How do we get the sustainability message beyond the choir? Social media is an opportunity to tell your story, capture people’s attention, engage with supporters and build community. Skyler Leonard, digital communications specialist for the City of Colorado Springs, shares how to better engage the community about sustainability using social media.
Council Matters: Old North End – April 22 2019
Traffic, the ONEN, ADU (accessory dwelling units), political candidates, CORA (Colorado Open Records Act requests), communication flow, parking, and other subjects are on the table. We’re back, after a post-election pause. City Councilor Bill Murray hosts (Tom Strand is AWOL for another week) conducts this spirited conversation about neighborhoods with Vic Appugliese of the Old…
Town Square: Surprised by Property Value Increase?
Learn how your property tax bill is determined from El Paso County Assessor Steve Schleiker. He explains the 2019 re-appraisal process and how it affects property owners. This town hall was held April 2, 2019 by the El Paso County Assessor’s Office and the Council of Neighbors and Organizations. Contact the Assessor’s office with your…
22: Fungi, the Forgotten Kingdom
“All mushrooms are edible – at least once,” quips environmental scientist and mushroom expert Mike Essam, president of the Pikes Peak Mycological Society. Mike shared the wonders of fungi in this very popular talk at the March 22 luncheon of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The photographs Mike showed are a key part of the…
Town Square: #25 – MeadowGrass Music Festival 2019
Everything you need to know about spending a beautiful Memorial Day weekend listening to amazing music under the sun and stars. Now in its second decade, MeadowGrass is the perfect getaway for families and music lovers. The festival features more than 20 national, regional and local artists, music workshops, yoga, kids’ activities, and camping –…
Town Square: #24 – Tools for Transparency – Civic Superhero Training
Report a pothole, avoid cone zones, watch a particular agenda item in a city council meeting, see candidates’ campaign finance filings, see where your tax dollars are going. These are just a few of the powers in your hands with the City of Colorado Springs website and COSprings app. Jay Anderson, Open Data and Citizen…
21: PFAS Contamination in Our Water
The chemicals used in firefighting foam, Teflon, stain-resistant carpet, outdoor sports apparel, and even the lining of your movie theater’s popcorn bags, are everywhere. Since they were first developed in the 1950s, they’ve become so widely used that traces of them have been found in the most remote regions of the globe, and in the…
20: Moving Colorado Springs Beyond Coal
Singer/Songwriter and climate/energy activist Lindsay Facknitz joins host Ellen Johnson-Fay to share how and why she added activism to the busy life of a mother of two young children. From January 2019 through August of 2020 Colorado Springs Utilities is developing a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan. Lindsay wants to mobilize citizens to let our…
Town Square: #23 CC Ice Arena Mtg 3 Q&A – March 23 2019
City for Champions, building materials, neighborhood congruity and existing neighborhood parking challenges are among the topics brought up in the Q&A section of public meeting #3 about the proposed Robson ice arena at Colorado College. Public meeting schedule and additional information can be found here. (Episode 23, recorded 3/23/19)
Town Square: #22 CC Ice Arena Public Mtg 3 – March 23 2019
Major changes in the planned arena were explained in this third meeting about the Colorado College Robson Ice Arena: a parking garage and parking lot, plus a relocation of the arena and the tennis courts. The meeting also included more discussion of the architecture. Listen to the next episode of Town Square for the Q&A…
Town Square: #21 Council Candidates Forum – March 21 2019
Growth, marijuana, homelessness, public safety, public transportation and affordable housing are among the topics addressed by the 11 candidates for 3 at-large positions on Colorado Springs City Council. Douglas Sharp and a few friends organized this forum at Cheyenne Mountain Elementary School on March 21. This is a “warts-and-all” recording without the help of microphones…
19: Open Mic at Green Drinks Feb 2019
Local food and farmers, composting, permaculture, renewable energy and recycling are among the topics of conversation and announcements as we try something different – “Open Mic” at a Green Cities monthly Green Drinks event. At every Green Drinks attendees get the chance to introduce themselves and make announcements about important local environmental issues and events.…
Town Square: Collective Bargaining Ballot Issue Forum – March 18 2019
Learn more about Issue 1, Collective Bargaining for All Uniformed Fire Department Employees – the only question on the 2019 Colorado Springs ballot. Speaking for the proponents is John Roy, Deputy Campaign Manager for the Colorado Springs Professional Firefighters. Speaking for the opponents is Mayor John Suthers, representing Citizens Against Public Employee Unions. The forum…
Council Matters: No City for Old Men? – March 18 2019
Do we have a battle of the generations heating up? An off-hand remark about Colorado Springs wanting all the millennials we can get has sparked some conversation. Do we not value the oldsters? This episode has something for everyone to get excited about: bike lanes, taxes, traffic, red light cameras, and mentorship. (Episode 114, Recorded…
Active for Justice: #2 Eat, Pray, Peace
Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission Executive Director Victoria Stone welcomes RAWtools founder Michael Martin and peace activist/artist Mary Sprunger-Froese into the studio.
18: Environmental Action Summit
The Colorado Springs Environmental Action Summit on March 5, 2019 brought together organizations and individuals working on environmental action – in order to coalesce a more effective environmental movement. Members and leaders from over 50 organizations, including Sierra Club, 350.org, ENACT, Green Cities Coalition, the Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission, and GrowthBusters. Kevin Mitchell…
Town Square: Candidate Forum March 9 2019
Taxes, growth, traffic and collective bargaining for firefighters are among the topics debated by 11 candidates vying for 3 at-large Colorado Springs City Council seats. This forum was held at the Penrose House on March 9, hosted The Gazette, KOAA News 5 and the El Pomar Foundation’s Forum for Civic Advancement. (Episode 19, recorded 3/9/19)
Council Matters: Campaign Forums – March 11 2019
Co-hosts Bill Murray and Tom Strand (who happen to be City Council incumbents running for re-election) discuss the slew of candidate forums. Should they all follow a standard formula? If candidates get questions in advance, should their answers be published? (Episode 113, Recorded 3/8/19)
Town Square: Candidates Debate Environment, Energy, Open Spaces
Candidates for Colorado Springs City Council debated environmental issues March 7 at Colorado College. Hosted by the Colorado College Collaborative for Community Engagement, the Trails and Open Space Coalition, the Colorado Springs Independent and The Colorado Springs Business Journal. (Episode 18, Recorded 3/7/19)
17: What You Wear Matters
We’ve heard about our Watershed and Foodshed, but did you know we have a Fibershed? Learn why it matters what cloth you choose and where you acquire it. Judith Rice-Jones shares what she has learned about the clothes we wear, the fabrics from which they’re made, and our “fibershed,” a concept originated by Rebecca Burgess.…
Council Matters: A VooDoo Local Economy? – March 4 2019
Jobs “created” in Colorado Springs in 2018 were apparently only one third of the number originally estimated. Are overly optimistic economic numbers steering our city off course? Are we too busy creating minimum wage jobs? Sales tax, jobs, and economic development decisions under the microscope in this episode. The Scheels economic development incentive comes up, and…
16: Sustainability in Progress: Water Quantity
Water is in short supply on the Front Range of Colorado. You probably knew this, but the details might surprise you in this episode of Peak Environment. Where will the 20-plus metropolitan water districts in El Paso County get their water in the future? Water rights are already being shifted from farms in the Lower…
Active for Justice: 1 – Let’s Buy a Gun or Two Before Dinner
Justice activist Josh Rumple joins host Victoria Stone to discuss gun violence.
Town Square: Beyond Dialogue – Tools for Reclaiming Truth
Shaun King provides insights and ideas on how to combat the effects of “fake news,” reporting bias and declining media independence. King made this presentation to a sold-out audience in the Shove Chapel at Colorado College on February 20, 2019. Shaun King is a Brooklyn-based writer and activist who focuses on civil and human rights,…
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Architectural Q&A – Feb 16 2019
The Q&A session on architectural plans for the Colorado College Robson Ice Hockey Arena. This is part two of the second public meeting on the arena. Public meeting schedule and additional information can be found here. (Episode 15, recorded 2/16/19)
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Architecture Presentation – Feb 16 2019
Architecture design and criteria are laid out by the project team in the second in a series of discussions about the Colorado College Robson Ice Arena. Be sure to listen to the next episode of Town Square, as well – the Q&A segment that followed this presentation. The arena is part of the Colorado Springs…
15: Life, Laughter, & Love of Green
From growing gardens to creating community to transforming lives, take a peek at what your community library’s Green Team is all about. Pikes Peak Library District Regional Manager Michael Doherty and Senior Library Assistant Debbie Vitulli join host Ellen Johnson-Fay for a tour of the Green Team’s many activities LINKS: Green Team on Facebook Food Not Bombs Colorado…
Council Matters: Strand & Murray Town Hall – Feb 14 2019
A dialogue with Colorado Springs citizens was held by City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand in this town hall on February 14 at City Hall. In this unedited and unfiltered special edition of Council Matters, Tom and Bill find out what’s on the citizens’ minds, and we get to hear the Councilors respond. (Episode…
Special: Terry Martinez City Council Candidate – Feb 13 2019
Get to know Terry Martinez, candidate for at-large city councilor in Colorado Springs’ April 2019 election. An in-depth conversation about issues affecting Colorado Springs. (Recorded 2/11/19) List of Candidates & Issues on the April 2019 Ballot For more information or to follow Terry Martinez: Terry Martinez on Facebook Terry Martinez on Twitter
Peak Environment: #14 Foodshed Forum 2019
Keeping our local farms intact and productive is in everyone’s best interest, but it takes much more than just shopping at the farmers market. Creating, nurturing and growing local agriculture will be explored at the Foodshed Forum in Colorado Springs February 22-23, 2019. In this episode of Peak Environment, co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay discusses the forum with Sean Svette,…
Special: Town Hall Pete Lee, Tony Exum & Marc Snyder – Feb 9 2019
The Colorado state budget, and TABOR and Gallagher amendments explained and discussed in the town hall hosted by Colorado Senator Pete Lee and Colorado Representatives Tony Exum and Marc Snyder. Don’t miss the lively and informative Q&A at the end of the program. The elected officials answered forthrightly and honestly. (Episode 38, Recorded 2/9/19)
Council Matters: USAFA Visitors Center – Feb 11 2019
Will the Air Force Academy Visitors Center project bring Colorado Springs the promised economic windfall? Co-hosts and City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the project and dig into the subject of tax giveaways by Colorado Springs. What do YOU think? Post your comments below. (Episode 210, Recorded 1/25/19)
Peak Environment: #13 Sustainable Palm Oil
You’ve probably heard palm oil production is causing deforestation and biodiversity loss on a massive scale. You might be surprised, however, how many products contain palm oil. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Tracey Gazibara shares how the zoo protects species and habitat by supporting efforts to produce Sustainable Palm Oil. (See links below for her slides.)…
Council Matters: Collective Bargaining for Firefighters? – Feb 4 2019
Should firefighters be able to organize to negotiate pay? It’s on the April ballot. Plus: the Chamber & EDC is proposing “new financial arrangements” for business development to our City Council. Co-hosts and City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand dig into the pros & cons of collective bargaining, discuss economic development incentives, and ponder…
Colorado Latino Issues & Answers: Mouth-Watering Food – Jan 24 2019
The ultimate food experience is always on host Joe Barrera’s front burner. In this episode, Lorena Jakzuczak discusses Oaxaea Mexican food and J. L Fields dishes on Veganism. Prepare to be hungry! (Episode 5, Recorded 1/24/19) Check out Joe’s Almagre Review, a Colorado Publication : Where the Mountains Meet the Prairie – A Literary Journal Founded…
Peak Environment: #12 Brief Intro to Permaculture
What is permaculture? According to Becky Elder, it’s not what you do, but how you think about what you do, using nature as a guide. The co-founder and chair of Pikes Peak Permaculture joins host Ellen Johnson-Fay for a very brief permaculture primer. The conversation includes a great tip on eliminating some or all of…
Council Matters: CC Ice Arena Part Deux – Jan 28 2019
The proposed new ice arena at Colorado College gets more attention from Council Matters co-hosts Tom Strand and Bill Murray (also Colorado Springs City Councilors). Parking seems to be the big issue. Also, the history of City for Champions gets a review. Somehow, Alabama football creeps into the discussion. (Episode 108, Recorded 1/25/19)
Peak Environment: #11 Sustainability in Progress – Agriculture
Agriculture and local food play a vital role in the Pikes Peak Regional 2030 Sustainability Plan. Three local food practitioners share how local groups are promoting agriculture and local food in the Pikes Peak region. The speakers share how their work is supporting the goals to: promote urban agriculture and knowledge about food encourage regional…
Council Matters: Bike Lane Heartburn Continues – Jan 21 2019
Some motorists are still losing sleep over conversion of auto lanes to bike lanes. Co-hosts (and City Councilors) Bill Murray and Tom Strand continue to explore this issue in search of a solution. Are parties in full possession of the facts? Are there any opportunities for improvement in planning or implementation? (Episode 107, Recorded 1/4/19)
Council Matters: The Deer, the Park & a Few Other Things – Jan 14 2019
What to do about deer and homeless in our parks (and everywhere else for that matter)? Co-hosts (and city councilors) Tom Strand and Bill Murray explore what council should do. “Cull” the herd? Also on the table: should council put on the ballot an initiative requiring a citizen vote to sell, trade, lease, or transfer…
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Meeting Q&A – Jan 5 2019
Parking, traffic, funding and return on investment top the issues as neighbors ask challenging questions of the city and Colorado College. This is the Q&A portion of the January 5 public meeting on the proposed Robson Arena. Listen to part one of the meeting here. The arena is part of the Colorado Springs City for…
Town Square: CC Ice Arena Public Meeting – Jan 5 2019
This is the opening presentation by Colorado College on the concept of the proposed Robson Arena and the projected impact on the neighboring area. Robson Arena is a planned sporting event venue on the southern edge of the campus that will seat 3,000. Groundbreaking on construction of the arena is anticipated late in 2019. Robson…
Council Matters: Cold Shoulder for CC Ice Arena – Jan 7 2019
Serious questions about the proposed hockey arena at Colorado College are being raised by North End neighbors. Has the planning been sufficient for the existing neighborhood? Why is Colorado Springs giving money to a private college for this project? Can parking issues be addressed and resolved? Who will cover infrastructure costs? Will the Robson Arena…
10: Sustaining Communities with Local Food – 2019 Grain School
Eat your way to good health with local foods and grains! Locally grown grains are essential to successful and sustainable local food economies. Beyond environmental impacts, there are also social, health and economic benefits to our communities. UCCS Sustainability, Wellnss & Learning Manager, Associate Professor of Health Sciences, and mastermind behind Grain School, Nanna Meyer, joins Peak Environment Co-Producer…
Council Matters: Springs 2018 in Review – Dec 17 2018
It was never a dull moment in 2018 for the City of Colorado Springs. Co-hosts (and city councilors) Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss a new CEO, new governance committees, renewed commitment to renewables, and developments related to closing the coal-fired Martin Drake power plant at Utilities. Also on the docket: the new regulation of…
Peak Environment: #9 Rainwater Harvesting
Now that Coloradoans are able to collect rainwater, with some limitations, you’ll want to pick an expert’s brain about smart rainwater harvesting. In this episode of Peak Environment, we’re sharing permaculturist Becky Elder’s “Rainwater Harvesting” class from the 2018 People’s Tiny House Festival. This episode of Peak Environment comes to us courtesy of Pikes Peak…
Council Matters: Can Cars & Bikes Get Along? – Dec 10 2018
Bike lanes (340 miles of them) and other efforts to modernize city streets are making a few people cranky. In this episode, two volunteers from Bike Colorado Springs offer their take, and take some licks. Corey Sutela, advocacy chair, and Cully Radvillas, communication chair, sit down with co-hosts Bill Murray and Tom Strand (also Colorado…
Special: State of Our City – Dirk Draper – Nov 27 2018
A review of recent accomplishments and a glimpse into the future by Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC CEO Dirk Draper. This meeting was hosted by Leadership Pikes Peak at Coquette’s Bistro. (Recorded 11/27/18) LINKS: Leadership Pikes Peak Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC Coquette’s Bistro Subscribe (free) to Studio 809 Specials podcast:
Council Matters: The Ugly Stormwater Mess – Dec 3 2018
Stormwater management in Colorado Springs is a mess. Co-hosts and city councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray get into the ugly truth in this episode. What’s next now that the city lost the EPA lawsuit? Will stormwater fees be increased? Will new taxes be levied? Is the city in a financial hole it can’t get…
Peak Environment: #8 Our Community of Giving
Local nonprofit organizations play a key role in creating a healthy, sustainable community. Many nonprofits are working towards the goals of the 2030 Sustainability Plan and need community support in various ways. This episode features a discussion of the giving nature of the Pikes Peak Region. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable…
Council Matters: 3 Important Employees – Nov 26 2018
Just three important city employees out of about 4,000 report directly to Colorado Springs City Council. Councilors (and co-hosts) Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the 3 positions: city auditor, council administrator, and CEO of Colorado Springs Utilities. They have other musings about regionalization, the Martin Drake power plant, and the AMI system. (Episode 101,…
Council Matters: Your Fortune Told Here (Post-Election) – Nov 19 2018
Political ads, term limits, and special interests are in the mix as co-hosts (and city councilors) Tom Strand and Bill Murray interpret election results. Plus: a look into the future. This is Bill and Tom’s 100th episode. Cheers! (Episode 100, Recorded 11/16/18)
#7 Peak Environment: Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate
There is a lot of good sustainability practice happening in the Pikes Peak region. The Green Cities Coalition was formed in 2008 to connect the good people and organizations working in this area and foster collaboration. In this episode of Peak Environment, Green Cities Chair Konrad Schlarbaum chats with podcast co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay about the history of…
Council Matters: Amy Sweet of Colorado Springs Business Journal – Nov 12 2018
From city growth and traffic congestion to bike lanes and sustainability, everything’s on the table as Amy Sweet, editor of the Colorado Springs Business Journal drops in for a chat. Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand co-host, as always. (Episode 99, recorded 11/2/18)
Council Matters: Election Poll Numbers – Nov 05 2018
Poll numbers surprise co-host and city councilor Bill Murray. The voters are interested in conservation, healthcare, and making Colorado better. Money, ballot issues, and an unpopular judge are also discussed, with co-host and also city councilor Tom Strand. (Episode 98, recorded 11/2/18)
Special: CONO Neighborhood Chat on Roads & Traffic – Oct 23 2018
Roads, traffic, development, parking, traffic signals and bike lanes all get mic time in this Northside CONO neighborhood chat. Tim Roberts (principal transportation planner/traffic engineer for City of Colorado Springs), Jim Reid (El Paso county public works), and Grant Smith (president of the Cragmor Neighborhood Association) share their perspectives and experiences. (Episode 37, recorded 10/23/18)…
Peak Environment: #6 For Love of Bluegrass (Or Maybe Not?)
“Stop Dissing the Grass,” was the cry of turf expert Nick McNamee to permaculturist Becky Elder. In the arid southwestern United States, thirsty, manicured grass lawns have been getting a bad rap. Is it deserved? Or is there more to the story? This episode of Peak Environment brings you a fascinating discussion held at the…
Council Matters: Bikes, Deer & Short Term Rentals, Oh My – Oct 29 2018
Do we have too many deer, bicycles and short term rentals? These controversies are revisited by co-hosts and city councilors Tom Strand and Bill Murray. (Episode 97, recorded 10/12/18)
CO Latino Issues & Answers: Music of 50s 60s 70s – Oct 16 2018
Professor Craig Warner joins host Joe Barrera for a trip down memory lane, discussing the music of the 1950s, 60s, & 70s. This ties into their real life experiences during the Viet Nam War. This is real history. It’s a must-listen episode of Colorado Latino Issues & Answers. (Episode 4, recorded 10/16/18)
Peak Environment: #5 Be a Civic Superhero
It’s easier than ever to be an informed, engaged citizen. October’s Sustainability in Progress meeting, hosted by the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, gives us a glimpse of the amazing powers at the disposal of Colorado Springs citizens through the city’s website and its app for smartphones. Jay Anderson, Open Data and Citizen Engagement…
Special: CONO Northside Neighborhood Chat – Oct 16 2018
Local governments highlight this meeting at Amanda’s Fonda hosted by the Council of Neighbors and Organizations (CONO). Did you know the City of Colorado Springs web site is making it easier than ever to be informed or involved? Plus: City Councilors Don Knight and David Geislinger discuss Short Term Rentals. And El Paso County’s Dave…
Council Matters: Taking the City Budget Apart – Oct 22 2018
All about how your tax dollars will be spent. City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand turn the mayor’s proposed 2019 city budget upside down and shake it to see what comes out. Public safety gets significant attention in this episode. Let the number crunching begin. (Episode 96, recorded 10/12/18)
Special: Citizens Project Issues Forum
Learn more about ballot issues affecting funding for public schools and transportation, and safer setbacks for oil and gas wells from schools, residences and offices. 3 statewide issues were debated in this forum hosted by Citizens Project on October 17 at Sierra High School in Colorado Springs. Amendment 73 (Education funding) Roberta Rizzo Michael Fields,…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 4
Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley headlined the “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party on October 13 in Colorado Springs. Part Four features O’Malley’s powerful and inspiring address. Subscribe (free) to Studio 809 Specials podcast:
SoapBox: Vote YES on 112, NO on 74
Should oil wells be required to be drilled no closer than 2500 feet from your kids’ school or your own backyard? Don’t get your information from the spin on TV ads funded by the oil industry. Amy Gray and Leslie Weise of 350 Colorado – two concerned mothers who are active and knowledgeable on this…
Town Square: New Colorado Springs Comprehensive Plan
Are you turned on by vibrant neighborhoods, unique places, a thriving economy, strong connections, renowned culture or majestic landscapes? Learn all about the proposed new Comprehensive Plan for the City of Colorado Springs, PlanCOS, a plan that will guide our community’s physical development over the coming decades. The City’s Carl Schueler (Comprehensive Planning Manager) and Conrad…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 3
The “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party was held October 13 in Colorado Springs. Part Three features remarks by Parkland school shooting survivor Brooke Harrison and her mother. They are followed by a special presentation by Stephany Rose Spaulding (candidate for U.S. D5 Representative) and by U.S. Representative (and Colorado Governor…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 2
The “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party was held October 13 in Colorado Springs. Part Two features remarks by party candidates for statewide office: Phil Weiser, candidate for Colorado Attorney General Jena Griswold, candidate for Secretary of State Dave Young, candidate for State Treasurer Leslie Smith, candidate for CU Regent at…
Special: Democratic Party Annual Dinner – Part 1
The “Everybody Welcome!” dinner for the El Paso County Democratic Party was held October 13 in Colorado Springs. Highlights include remarks by U.S. Representative (and Colorado Governor candidate) Jared Polis, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, and Parkland survivor Brooke Harrison. Part One features opening remarks by chair Electra Johnson. Subscribe (free) to Studio 809 Specials podcast…
Special: Candidates Forum – Oct 10 2018
Candidates for national and state office in the November, 2018 election are heard from in this forum hosted by Citizens Project on October 10. Moderated by KOAA Anchor/Reporter Andy Koen. Candidates present: Stephany Rose Spaulding, Pete Lee, Brenda Krause, Andrew Smith, Tony Exum Sr, Marc Snyder, Frank DeLalla, Holly Williams, Cami Bremer, Grace Sweeney-Maurer, Liz…
Special: Statewide Candidates Debate – Oct 13 2018
Candidates for Attorney General: Phil Weiser and George Brauchler, Colorado Secretary of State: Wayne Williams and Jena Griswold, and Colorado State Treasurer: Dave Young and Brian Watson, duked it out in this fast-paced debate. The event took place October 13 in Colorado Springs at the Penrose House, sponsored by The Gazette, Colorado Politics and KOAA…
Special: Colorado Governor Debate – Oct 13 2018
Congressman Jared Polis and State Treasurer Walker Stapleton came out swinging in this Colorado Governor candidates debate. The debate took place in Colorado Springs at the Penrose House on October 13, sponsored by The Gazette, Colorado Politics and KOAA News5. KOAA anchor Rob Quirk moderated. Elizabeth Watts (KOAA News5 anchor) and Joey Bunch (senior political…
Council Matters: Ballot Measures 74 & 112 – Oct 15 2018
Two controversial ballot measures are under the microscope in this episode. Colorado Springs City Councilors and co-hosts Bill Murray and Tom Strand stake their positions on Amendment 74 & and Proposition 112. 74 would require state and local governments to reimburse property owners for any loss of value due to new regulations. 112 would increase…
Special: Growing Downtown and What It Means to You
This Neighborhood Chat includes Susan Edmondson of the Downtown Partnership, Crystal LaTier with El Paso County Housing & Community Development, and Colorado Springs Department of Housing & Urban Development’s Steve Posey). Local residents chime in on what they’d like to see happen to downtown Colorado Springs, plus affordable housing and short term rentals. This is…
SoapBox: Brenda Krause HD 15 Candidate
Education, healthcare, roads and gun safety are on the table as Brenda Krause introduces herself. She’s running for Colorado House District 15 and would like your vote. Election day is November 6. Watch for your ballot starting October 15. Check your district and voter registration at govotecolorado.com (Recorded 10/8/18) Links: Electbrendakrause.com Brenda on Facebook
Special: Renters’ Rights – Oct 1 2018
Do Renters have rights? Some landlords think not. But in reality, renters do have legal rights – as explained by Colorado Legal Service’s Clinton Albert. This program was organized by Catherine Duarte of Colorado Springs Community Development Division, the First Congregational Church and Pastor Jackie. (Recorded 10/1/18)
Council Matters: City Budget Preview – Oct 8 2018
How is the City of Colorado Springs going to spend our tax dollars in 2019? Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand discuss the beginning of the 2019 budget process. Should health & safety, broadband internet service, IT infrastructure, and the homeless have a piece of the budget pie? (Episode 94, Recorded 9/13/18)
Peak Environment – #4 Sustainability and Art
Arts and culture are an important part of a vibrant community, and strong community ties are crucial to a resilient, healthy economy. The Pikes Peak Region is lucky to have many organizations dedicated to Art in its many forms. September’s Sustainability in Progress meeting, hosted by the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, provided a…
Special: State of the City 2018
Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers delivered this address on September 27, 2018 at a luncheon hosted by the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. If you couldn’t afford the ticket or for some other reason missed this event, you can hear it here. Past accomplishments and future aspirations were among his remarks in this “annual report”…
Council Matters: City Councilors Town Hall – Oct 1 2018
In this “No Holds Barred” town hall, Colorado Springs City Councilors Bill Murray and Tom Strand hear from an energetic crowd. Citizens voiced concerns about homelessness, Colorado College, vacation rentals, and more. No pitchforks or torches, but a robust discussion. Can Tom and Bill deliver? (Episode 94, recorded 9/27/18)
Council Matters: Strategic Plan Plus Short Term Rentals Update – Sept 24 2018
Should Short Term Rentals collect the LART (Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax)? A follow up to episode 90 about regulating VRBO and Airbnb in the Springs. Should we care about the Municipal Administrative Budget? Why should I read the city charter? What is the city’s Strategic Plan? Does it have useful metrics? (Episode 92, Recorded…
Special: Changing Colorado Springs’ Climate – Jim Hightower
Columnist/Humorist/Activist/Author Jim Hightower highlights the all-star lineup that graced the stage at Stargazers Theatre on September 16 for this event hosted by Together for Colorado Springs. Big announcements are among the varied subjects addressed, all related to elections, politics, and positive progress for Colorado Springs. Speakers include John Weiss, Jill Gaebler, Lisa Villanueva, Yolanda Avila;…
SoapBox: Marc Snyder Candidate CO House District 18 – Sept 14 2018
Marc Snyder discusses his positions on Restorative Justice and the issues that will be on the Nov 6, 2018 ballot. There is mention of his opponents and the “dark money” flowing into the district. Plus: “Why am I running?” Gary Casimir hosts this “kitchen table conversation.” (Recorded 9/14/18) You can learn more about Marc Snyder…