Episode Focus: Art, Policy, and the Path to Youth Wellness

In this November episode of State of Art, host Bree Pappan explores how the arts are transforming the conversation around youth mental health and wellness in Pueblo and beyond.

Bree welcomes Emma Gilchrist, Deputy Director of the Farley Health Policy Center and Instructor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, who shares insights on advancing behavioral health integration and the role of policy in shaping prevention and wellness initiatives.

Also joining the conversation are Kennedy Pugh, Executive Director of Colorado Arts and Artist Associates, and Roxanne Pignanelli, founder of The Arts Academy at Pueblo County High School and C.A.T.C.H. Youth. Together, they discuss how cross-sector partnerships are using creativity as a bridge to healing—empowering young people through fine art, music, theater, and community engagement.

This episode offers a powerful look at how Pueblo is leading a statewide movement that connects art, science, and compassion to build resilience and reimagine mental health support for the next generation.

Gimme Shelter, Gimmer Justice: Breaking the Silence After Epstein is a compelling episode of the Voices of Pueblo Podcast, hosted by Molly Cotner and co-host Gregory Howell, with returning guest Chantal Woodyard—PSJ board member, advocate, and survivor. Earlier in the year, Chantal sat down with Molly and Gregory to revisit her deeply personal journey featured in “Gimme Shelter: A Survivor’s Fight for Justice,” the March cover story of the Pueblo Star Journal. Together, they explore the intersection of power, secrecy, and justice at the heart of the Epstein case.​​

Listeners will hear unfiltered stories of survival, the long shadow of sealed files, and the urgent need for transparency, all set against the broader landscape of systemic abuse, including harm to children and vulnerable populations. Chantal brings firsthand insight into living with the consequences of institutional failures and misinformation, while the hosts foster a conversation that connects global headlines to local realities in Pueblo, Colorado.

Trigger Warning: This podcast contains discussions of sexual exploitation, abuse—including the abuse of children and vulnerable populations—as well as institutional failures that may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Please take care of yourself while listening, and feel free to skip or step away if needed. The episode addresses survivors' experiences and sensitive topics surrounding the Epstein case, including issues of accountability and healing. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or abuse, support is available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or RAINN.org.​

This episode is a testament to truth-telling, advocacy, and the power of community journalism to spark change.​​

See links below more information about Gimme Shelter and SeriesFest:

Gimme Shelter Article

Gimme Shelter Podcast

SeriesFest Season 11 2025

On Nov. 7, as Pueblo entered the 38th day of the government shutdown, Bree sat down with three community leaders who are on the front lines of the city’s growing food insecurity crisis. Evans Auden Gonzalez Garcia, owner of Super Market Gonzalez, joined Diego Rivera and Luanne Maes of United Way of Pueblo County to talk about how families can access food and essential resources during what many are calling a manmade disaster.

With more than 40,000 Pueblo residents relying on federal nutrition benefits, the impacts of the shutdown are immediate and widespread. Two federal judges initially blocked cuts to SNAP funding, and the Trump administration signaled it would draw from contingency funds. But while the courts deliberate, children, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities are being left hungry.

This episode dives into what local organizations are doing right now, how residents can get support, and why community partnerships matter more than ever. Bree’s guests offer practical guidance, compassionate insight and a clear message: Pueblo has your back.

The latest episode of 45 Degrees features a special Japan Edition with host Gregory Howell in conversation with artist and muralist Miranda Cisneros. Speaking from her home in Japan, Miranda reflects on the growing Japan Colorado connection and how living abroad has deepened her understanding of cultural identity, wellness, and creative expression. Her work on the Pueblo Levee murals brings these influences to life in bold and meaningful ways.

Miranda opens up about the role art has played throughout her life, tracing her creative roots back to her family in New Mexico. She shares memories of discovering ancestral portraits of her grandmother, images that sparked early dreams, questions, and a lasting curiosity about the stories that shape who we are. Those portraits became a bridge between generations, inspiring her path as an artist and guiding her understanding of lineage and belonging.

As communities across Pueblo celebrate Dia de los Muertos, this conversation invites listeners to pause and honor the connections that link past, present, and future. Miranda’s reflections on art, healing, and memory offer a powerful reminder that creativity is not only an outlet but also a form of wellness and remembrance. Her story weaves together heritage, place, and imagination in a way that resonates far beyond the levee walls.

Bree on a Budget: Pueblo, We Got Your Back! This Halloween season, Bree Pappan is turning up the festive spirit with a special treat for listeners. In this spooky and fun-filled episode, Bree welcomes Chris Segura, Director of Communications and Engagement at United Way of Pueblo County, to talk about a community favorite: the annual Trunk or Treat. Together, they share all the details about this year’s event, from creative costumes to decorated car trunks, showing that Pueblo knows how to make Halloween both safe and spectacular.

Bree also announces the Pueblo Star Journal’s first annual Halloween Budget Costume Contest, open to kids and adults alike. It is all about creativity, fun, and community pride without spending a fortune. Bree’s October article focuses on helping families enjoy the holiday while saving money, proving that with a little imagination, everyone can join the celebration.

We know how hard it can be these days to make ends meet, and that is why Bree on a Budget is here to say, “Pueblo, we got your back.” Whether you are hunting for candy, crafting the perfect costume, or simply looking for local Halloween fun, this episode is your guide to a safe, spirited, and budget-friendly holiday. Tune in, get inspired, and let the magic (and savings) begin!

DON'T FORGET TO EMAIL YOUR HALLOWEEN COSTUME PICTURES TO BREE BY OCT 30! EMAIL TO BREE@PUEBLOSTARJOURNAL.ORG.

Your Voice, Your Vote: District 3 Interview with Ted Hernandez The Pueblo Star Journal continues its Your Voice, Your Vote series with District 3 City Council candidate Ted Hernandez. As part of PSJ’s expanding Investigative Channels, this conversation builds on earlier interviews with local leaders, including Joe Perko, to give Pueblo voters clear, factual, and community-centered insights ahead of the election.

In this special State of Art episode, host Bree Pappan welcomes musician and lecturer Aaron Zimola, who joins the Pueblo City-County Library District’s All Pueblo Reads 2025 celebration of The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb.

Aaron, now celebrating his first year living in Pueblo, shares his journey of discovering our community, exploring housing opportunities, investments, and the welcoming spirit that defines the city. He takes listeners on an inspiring exploration of Pueblo’s cultural institutions, offering a fresh appreciation for the creative treasures that make this region so unique.

Their conversation bridges literature, history, and place, connecting Slocumb’s story of music and identity to Colorado’s own "Stradivarius of the West," George W. Fisk. The episode concludes with Aaron’s violin performance, a reflection of craftsmanship, passion, and the power of art to unite us all.

What an episode!

Your Voice Your Vote: Pueblo City Council Candidate Joe Perko

In this episode of Your Voice Your Vote, the Pueblo Star Journal sits down with Joe Perko, candidate for Pueblo City Council. This conversation explores four key topics that matter most to voters: city budget priorities, public safety and community well-being, governance and accountability, and Perko’s personal vision for Pueblo’s future.

Perko shares his perspective on addressing Pueblo’s fiscal challenges, building trust in public safety efforts, and strengthening collaboration in local government. In the final segment, he speaks directly to voters about why he believes he is the best choice to serve on the City Council.

Whether you’re an undecided voter or simply looking to learn more about those shaping Pueblo’s future, this episode offers clear insights into the ideas and priorities of one of the candidates seeking to represent you.

To learn more about Joe Perko and his campaign, please visit: https://www.perkoforcc3.com/