John Frank

3 days ago | axios.com | John Frank

Illustration: Brendan Lynch/AxiosThe question sounds innocuous: "When you think about having more courageous and representative politics in Colorado, what does that mean to you?"Yes, but: It's the precursor to much more. The organizers who asked the question just finished a statewide listening tour called Courageous Colorado, the start to an overhaul of the state's elections and campaigns to make them less partisan. The goal is to implement policy changes at the local or state level by 2030.

5 days ago | axios.com | John Frank |Alayna Alvarez

Data: NOAA; Map: Axios VisualsBelow-average snowpack and rapid snow melt will contribute to an early and hot summer across the West, the latest summer forecast shows. Why it matters: Drier and warmer conditions increase the likelihood of wildfires and drought conditions. State of play: Neither El Niño nor La Niña conditions are present, leading to above-average temperatures and active monsoon seasons in the Southwest, according to meteorologists at Colorado-based OpenSnow.

5 days ago | axios.com | John Frank

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/AxiosTravis Campbell shelled out an additional $580,000. Mike Mojica raised prices and laid off workers. Trent Bush is worried he may go out of business. Why it matters: The three Colorado outdoor retail executives say they are casualties of President Trump's trade war. State of play: The sunny skies and huge crowds at last week's Outside Festival in Denver camouflaged a dire reality: Tariffs on foreign goods are pushing the outdoor industry to the brink.

1 week ago | axios.com | John Frank

Breckenridge Ski resort in the summer. Photo courtesy of JP Douvalakis/Vail ResortsDon't pack away your ski pass — Colorado's resorts offer plenty of summer fun. If you go: In mid-June, the lifts at most mountains begin spinning for hikers, sightseers and mountain bikers. On the mountain, you can also find live music, golf and festivals. Zoom in: Mark your calendar for these events:🎸 Vail Summer Sessions features live music at the new Eagle's Nest Rooftop venue June 27-29.

1 week ago | axios.com | John Frank

The view from Rook, the rooftop bar at the Catbird Hotel in RiNo. Photo courtesy of RookThe sunset views. The creative cocktails. And the city skyline at night. This is why Denver's rooftop bars are the place to be when the weather warms. If you go: We have four soaring spots for you to visit. Kisbee on the Roof (Jacquard Hotel, Cherry Creek)The vibe: Think elevated nightlife that matches the luxury hotel's sophistication.