Colorado’s latest economic forecast…and, grocery store workers vote on new contract offers.

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Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan announced a 300 million dollar Recovery Act grant program on Friday for building green public housing units. He made the announcement in Denver as part of a sustainable community tour. Bente Birkeland has more from the state capitol.

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A committee of lawmakers makes proposals regarding Colorado’s state-chartered workers compensation insurance company…the state’s unemployment rate falls…and, the Ski Train may operate this year, afterall.

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H1N1, or swine flu, is suspected in Colorado Springs’ Cesar Chavez Academy absences…County commissioners in three southern Colorado counties are concerned about the economic impacts of the state possibly releasing inmates early…and, the legislative committee tasked with examining the state chartered workers’ compensation insurance company is scheduled to vote tomorrow.

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Many throughout the area are celebrating Local Food Week this week. Sponsored by the Peak to Plains Alliance, the aim is to bring together dining, education, and friendly competition in celebration of local food. Cultivate Health’s Michele Mukatis served as the main organizer of the event, and in this week’s “Citizen Report,” she encourages grocery shoppers to know what foods they’re really buying.

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Disclosure Note: Michele’s husband is a KRCC volunteer.

(The “Citizen Report” is a collaboration between the Colorado Springs Gazette and KRCC. More information is available at Fresh Ink.)

Colorado Springs and El Paso County has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation. In May, area organizations held a conference to address the topic and to come up with an action plan. The Suicide Prevention Partnership of the Pikes Peak Region is tasked with spearheading action items following the conference. KRCC’s Andrea Chalfin recently sat down with Director Janet Karnes to follow-up on the conference and to talk about what’s next.

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Here’s the full conversation (nearly 18 min):

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Click here for the original piece that aired prior to the May conference that talked about the demographics of suicide in the area.

State Democrats knew there would be a fight from Republicans during next year’s senate race. The one thing that they weren’t counting on was competition from their own party. On Wednesday former speaker of the house Andrew Romanoff entered a crowded senate race to challenge incumbent Michael Bennet in the Democratic primary. Bente Birkeland reports from Denver.

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Pinnacol Assurance, the state-chartered workers’ compensation insurance company, issues a statement…Former Colorado House Speaker Andrew Romanoff officially kicks off his challenge to Senator Michael Bennet in the Democratic Senate Primary…and, more.

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In his 87 years, George McGovern has served as a World War II pilot, history professor, Senator from South Dakota, and as the 1972 Democratic Presidential nominee. He’s also an author, taking part in the American Presidents Series with his book on Abraham Lincoln. McGovern spoke at Colorado College last night. KRCC’s Andrea Chalfin had the chance to speak with him before his presentation, about his book, and about current topics in politics.

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Here’s the full interview with George McGovern:

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Click here for George McGovern’s recent Washington Post Article.

Here’s the audio from last night’s presentation, beginning with introductions from Colorado College President Dick Celeste and graduate Patricia Kelly (52 minutes):

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Disclaimer: Colorado College is KRCC’s licensee.

Colorado’s proposal to protect millions of acres of roadless national forest lands has taken another twist now that one of the state’s leading advocates for the rule is slated to head the U.S. Forest Service. Some conservationists are divided over the rule and say this move puts Colorado in a unique situation. Bente Birkeland reports from the Capitol.

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