Denver Makes 2016 GOP Bid Official

Denver has formally requested that the Republican party hold its 2016 here.  The bid was submitted today.  Mayor Michael Hancock and former Rep. Bob Beauprez argued that the city has shown it can handle such an event by successfully hosting the 2008 Democratic National Convention.  The young and diverse city also holds symbolism for Republicans who are trying to appeal more to young people and minorities. They'd also like to erase the memory of Barack Obama's two victories in the state. Before Obama, Colorado and several other western states were reliable votes for Republicans in presidential elections. Now they lean Democratic.

Gardner Funeral Tuesday

The funeral for former astronaut Dale Gardner is tomorrow.  He helped haul a malfunctioning satellite into the space shuttle and back to Earth in 1984.  He died last Wednesday in Colorado Springs, near his home in Divide.  Gardner flew two shuttle missions, in 1983 and 1984. He logged 337 hours in space and went on space walks totaling 12 hours.  He was a commander in the Navy and returned to military duty in 1986, serving in the U.S. Space Command. 

Senate Approves Bill on Firearms

In a rare move, the Senate came together, last week, to approve a bill on firearms. It was a win for Republican senators who oppose a state law that only allows Colorado residents to purchase firearms in states that share a common border. If passed, the law would allow Colorado residents to purchase a rifle or shotgun in any state. Gun buyers would still have to follow applicable state laws and federal background check laws, and it would not apply to handgun sales. SB 135 now moves on to the House for further consideration.

Taxpayer Money used to Buy Guns

A judge has rejected a proposed plea deal for a former Montezuma County Undersheriff charged with using taxpayer money to pay for personal items, including firearms. The Cortez Journal reports, Robin Cronk's proposed agreement was turned down Thursday, because it did not include any jail time. Cronk, charged with 17 embezzlement counts involving purchases totaling more than $7,400, was arrested in July after a Colorado Bureau of Investigation probe. Cronk is accused trying to sell some of the firearms by posting classified ads.