Turning Back the Pages

30 years ago – December 20, 1985

Many people that attended the seventh annual Christmas concert Tuesday night at the Gilpin County RE-1 School agreed that it was one of the best performances. The first through third grade classes sang a variety of songs while Shannon Blood narrated the story “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The kindergarten class sang the alphabet song and “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.” The fourth through the sixth grades sang while the high school drama class did the play “Christmas in Court.” Performances were also given by the girls’ chorus, the beginners’ band, the advanced band, the jug & bottle band, and the concert band. Directors for the play “Christmas in Court” were Ruthann Anderle and Fred Gribshaw. The musical director for the show was Lon Huckaby.

The Christmas spirit is alive and well and living in Gilpin County and in the hearts of those with connections to the “Little Kingdom of Gilpin.” Many people have contributed in many ways to make this a joyous holiday season for their friends and neighbors and even people they have never met. Sunday afternoon, a group of locals gathered at the Gilpin Hotel to wrap Christmas presents for the “Give a Kid a Christmas” community project. Gwen Thomas and Marion Lewis donated their time Sunday. Under the direction of Susie Lala of the county’s social services department and Jesse Andre of the Mountain Musicians Guild, gifts were wrapped for 38 kids. There are 19 families that will receive presents. Presents and cash for the project were donated by many local organizations as well as by many individuals. Some donations came from as far away as California and New York. Each year at Christmastime, the Central City Elks donate food baskets to the needy. Between the Elks and social services, 16 families will receive baskets this year. Tomorrow, Bob Brusco will host a party at the Gilded Garter Saloon & Restaurant for the people who are to receive presents. Santa will be on hand to pass out gifts to the children.