Alright, Coloradans, here are your top five stories from October 8, 2024—full of the usual chaos that makes us wonder if the Centennial State’s motto should really be “Expect the Unexpected.”
1. Aurora’s Latest Drama: Replica AR-15s Are NOT Toys
Aurora Police had a busy day when a man decided to wave around a replica AR-15 during an altercation. Spoiler alert: it didn’t end well for him. Officers arrived just in time to find him aiming it at them, prompting a split-second decision that ended the situation, permanently. Moral of the story: maybe don’t play guns in Aurora unless it’s laser tag (Colorado Public Radio).
2. Trump’s Aurora Rally: All Hype, No Help
In case anyone was missing some good old-fashioned political theater, Donald Trump is back in Aurora for a rally at the Gaylord Rockies Resort. The former president claims the city’s been taken over by a Venezuelan gang—despite local authorities debunking those claims. It’s like he’s running for “Most Creative Use of Fiction in a Campaign Speech” rather than president. If nothing else, Aurora’s getting some free publicity, though not exactly the kind anyone ordered (The Colorado Sun).
3. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions: Because Fall Isn’t Fire Season Enough
In Northwest Colorado, they’ve activated Stage 1 fire restrictions because apparently, a cozy autumn isn’t complete without some “very high” fire danger ratings. This one goes out to all the hunters who thought they’d get through the season without having to dodge flames. So, if you’re planning to roast marshmallows in Routt County, you might want to double-check the local ordinances first (Steamboat Radio).
4. Bear Attacks in Steamboat: Just Another Day in Colorado
What’s scarier than your average bear? One that’s learned how to break into homes. A man in Steamboat found himself under attack after a bear and her cubs decided to play house—by making his their new den. It’s the first reported bear attack of 2024, and hopefully, it’s the last. But given how things go around here, I wouldn’t bet on it (Colorado Public Radio).
5. Student Protests in Denver: The Campus Walkout Edition
Over in Denver, college students are organizing protests and vigils commemorating the October 7 Hamas attack from last year. From Auraria to CU Boulder, there’s no shortage of student activism. Apparently, hitting the books can wait when there’s a political statement to be made. At this rate, Colorado might just become the national capital of campus activism. Don’t worry—midterms can’t protest back (Colorado Public Radio).
So there you have it, Colorado. Whether it’s bears, fires, or political sideshows, there’s never a dull moment. Stay vigilant out there, and maybe carry a bear spray… or a fire extinguisher.
