30 years ago – March 24, 1989
Claiming to be 31 years old, Verl Jones, Gilpin County building inspector and sanitarian, was honored by fellow workers on Wednesday. The combined surprise celebration was to thank Jones for all of the work he has done above and beyond his duty,as well as a celebration for his birthday, which was March 19. Commissioner Leslie Williams quickly disputed Jones’ claim to being 31 years of age, saying that he was really 39! Williams read an appreciation poem to Jones and presented him with a new assistant, “Mr. Blue,” a blue teddy bear she had made. She pointed out that “Mr. Blue” was wearing a tie, which she jokingly said is also the appropriate attire for Jones. Following presentation of the cake to Jones by Nancy Robinson, the courthouse staffers enjoyed a superb potluck.
The City of Black Hawk has reassumed management and operation of the historic Lace House. Previously under responsibility of the Gilpin County Historical Society, the decorative building, including its charming, quaint interior comprised of antique furniture, will now be run by the city after the Historical Society announced it was operating at a deficit of approximately $1,500 annually. At Black Hawk’s council meeting on Tuesday, extended from the March 14 meeting, the city fathers decided to revive the Lace House Committee. It will be co-chaired by Aldermen Trish Harris and Joanne Lah. To initiate a fund for the historic structure, the council allocated $1,000. “It was the feeling of the City of Black Hawk that agreeing to a lease with the Historical Society for only one year would lead to the city having to take over management in 1990,” Harried explained on Wednesday. She added that the Historical Society has helped to make the transition very smooth. Those who wish to make donations to the Lace House to insure its continuation may send a check to the Lace House Committee.
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