Turning Back the Pages

30 years ago – October 10, 1986

American War Games of Colorado Inc., a three man partnership, has opened for business in Gilpin County. According to Erwin Goetzfried, one of the partners, the company names means that males and females enter into “tactical pursuit games.” The games consist of two teams and one team tries to beat the other team. The game being played at this point is called “capture the flag,” Goetzfried said. To play the game, each participant is given a carbon dioxide powered paint ball pistol, two tubes of carbon dioxide, and 30 rounds of paintballs. The object is to hit members of the other team with a paint ball. When hit, the opponent is out of the game. Goetzfried said the paint ball “can sting,” but does not seriously hurt anyone. “Head shots” are to be avoided. Goggles and ear protection are provided. The games are “just another sport,” Goetzfried said. There are no hand to hand combat, real guns, or tanks. To enter as a participant, there is a $25 fee. That entitles a team player to six games per session. Apparently, several residents who live near the property, located near mile post 14 on Highway 119, became alarmed at the spray painted sign placed along the highway. Goetzfried has said that the sheriff has spoken to him. According to Goetzfriend, the business is still in the process of getting organized. He said that the plans are to “start full force in March.” Goetzfried avoided giving the names of his two partners in the business. He would only say there are “two other partners, also.” Apparently, there is a similar business located in Colorado Springs.

Judge Andrew J. Krodshen of the Gilpin County Court is being forced to retire. Krodshen has been the county judge for 18 years. He assumed the position two weeks before Christmas in 1968. He has served the county for four terms of office. According to Colorado statues, on February 4, 1987, Krodshen must retire from office. The statutes states that “on attaining the age of 72 a justice or judge of a court of record shall return and his judicial office shall be vacant… “ Krodshen says, “I have a feeling of sadness. I feel lost.” His plans are “questionable.” He is disappointed that he is being forced to retire by virtue of the constitutional provision. The many years he has spent as the county judge have “all been a good memory,” he comments. He attributes those pleasurable years to the cooperation he has received from county commissioners and county officials. Krodshen says that best of all has been his staff, the court clerks and bailiffs. Those people have been “the best and most efficient in the state.” The First Judicial District Nominating Commission will be meeting in Central City on October 16 to select nominees. The actual appointment to fill the judgeship will be made by the governor. The application deadline is today. Gail Murray, court clerk, said that as of Wednesday, nine people had picked up the application forms from her. Three other applications have been picked up from the office in Golden.