McCormick won’t run Gilpin Clerk & Recorder seat opens
By Don Ireland
2026 LOCAL ELECTIONS
2026 LOCAL ELECTIONS
PART ONE
PART ONE
Senior Reporter
After serving for eight years as Gilpin Coun-
ty’s Clerk and Recorder, Sahari McCormick (D)
won’t seek a third term, she told the Weekly
Register-Call in an exclusive interview Monday.
However, McCormick’s right-hand man, Chief
Deputy Clerk Joe Self, plans to take over the
position if he wins the Nov. 3 General Election.
Self has filed to run for the position and will
seek the Democratic nomination in the June
recorder since February 2023.
Friday, Jan. 9 –
Teacher in-service day.
Middle school girls’ bas-
ketball hosts Estes Park.
The B-team will play at
4:15 p.m., followed by the
A-team at 5:15 p.m.
Eagle Eye Reporter
The Gilpin High School Interact Club took on the role of donation sorters at the Denver Rescue
Mission on Dec. 22.
The middle school and high school Interact Club members planned a supplies drive for the
Rescue Mission by distributing informational flyers around the building and setting up donation
bins. The club also offered its organizational skills.
Saturday, Jan 10 –
High school wrestling at
Wiggins, beginning at 9
varsity basketball at North
Park at noon. High school
boys’ basketball at West
The Denver Rescue Mission is a nonprofit organization that offers emergency services, includ-
ing meals, overnight housing, and daytime services, as well as rehabilitation, transitional pro-
grams and community outreach.
The Interact Club worked for two hours sorting through large boxes of donations and breaking
down cardboard after receiving a tour of the Mission warehouse.
The Denver Rescue Mission offers a free “store” for unhoused people in the area, with clothes,
shoes, and food
available for the tak-
ing, beds for nightly
warmth and safety,
and jobs for those
seeking a new life.
Next week (Jan. 12-
17)
Monday, Jan. 12 –
Middle school girls’ bas-
ketball hosts East Grand.
The C-team will play at
4:15 p.m., followed by the
B-team at 5 p.m. and the
Gilpin, Clear Creek,
Nederland Students:
Got good grades?
We want you!!
Bring in your report
card and receive:
$10 for every A
$5 for every B
Later the club
members bonded at
the Red Rocks Christ-
mas in Color Christ-
mas lights.
Tuesday, Jan. 13 –
High school basketball
at Denver Academy.
The boys’ jayvee game is
scheduled for 4 p.m., fol-
varsity at 5 p.m. and the
boys’ varsity an hour later.
MONTE
MONTE
Gilpin High Shool Interact
Club members at the Denver
Rescue Mission were
Jennifer Ferrante, JJ Church,
Gretchen Osteboe, Makaela
Johnson and Keira Ferrante
Black Hawk making plans for U.S., state celebrations
By Don Ireland
Eight-foot-tall
statues of
donors since then.”
Among the judge’s favorite initia-
tives sponsored by the commission are
this from the viewpoint of our shared history,” ac-
cording to Jackson. “We’re looking at this as everyday
Coloradoans. The first major event we had was back
in September, when we had a drone show at a Univer-
sity of Colorado football game in Boulder. There will
be another 40 to 60 drone shows throughout Colora-
do this year. We have 64 counties in the state and we
want to have 40 to 60 drone shows, so people in every
county in Colorado will be within a 100-mile distance
of a drone show location. About two or three minutes of
each drone show will include showing the history of that
particular area.”
white and blue. In addition, red,
white, and blue burlap patriotic
bunting will adorn the railings
area a more historical, nineteenth-
century look. This burlap bunting will
give Black Hawk a distinctive flair, once
others will commemorate this great na-
tion’s 250th Anniversary.”
the “14ers Climbs” and the “Passport”
Senior Reporter
The City of Black Hawk plans to showcase its
patriotic spirit this summer.
Jackson said the anniversary will
include a challenge for people to climb
as many 14,000-foot mountains in the
state as possible during the year. “I’m
sure there are quite a few of them in the
Gilpin County area that people will be
coming to,” he noted.
The Colorado Digital Passport program
invites people to visit selected museums, restau-
rants and other attractions. By visiting these places,
participants will earn points to redeem for rewards, badges and
exclusive offers. “Right now, we’re trying to determine which
places will be part of the digital passport program,” Jackson
noted.
installed
around
Gregory
Mayor David Spellman said ideas are being
discussed about how the city will participate in the
America 250-Colorado 150 events this summer. “For
Plaza later
this year,
giving
people a
chance to
take patriotic
selfies.
America’s semiquincentennial, Black Hawk has
purchased fiberglass figures, similar to the Hal-
loween and Christmas figures that so many
Black Hawk is expected to host its
annual Founders’ Day in late June. The
family-friendly celebration features ac-
tivities and exhibits. The event honors
William L. Lee, Dr. Frederick H. Judd,
of Black Hawk Point in June 1860,
about 13 months after prospector
John H. Gregory discovered gold
in the area. Once the community
was established, the Third Session of
the Colorado
Black Hawk on March 11, 1864. It was the second incorporated city
– behind Denver – in the Territory of Colorado, which became the
nation’s 38th state in 1876.
residents and visitors enjoyed in the Gregory
Jackson said he doesn’t know if a drone show will be spon-
sored by any Gilpin County group this year. However, if that
doesn’t happen, county residents can attend one being planned
for 2026 in Boulder and other neighboring counties. “What
should get people excited is that there can be events and vari-
ous projects in communities around the state that will focus on
our history. It’s my understanding that the Belvidere Theater
renovation (in Central City) has received money from one of the
donors who is contributing to the Colorado 150 celebration. To
date, the commission has raised $6 million [toward] the proj-
ects. The state legislature started us off with $500,000 in seed
money. However, we’ve obtained many major sponsors and
Street HARD District. One is an eight-foot-
tall Uncle Sam statue, and the other is an
eight-foot-tall Statue of Liberty.”
Photos
courtesy of
ums, such as Nathan Richie of the Golden History Museum.
There are individuals who represent the military, the disabled
and other communities. There are now 23 commissioners.
Spellman said he wants the list of things
for visitors and residents to do this year to
continue growing in Black Hawk. “We hope to add
to the lineup of fiberglass patriotic-themed items.
Perhaps Uncle Sam will be seated on a Black
Hawk bench, ready for a photo with his fellow
Americans. Or the Liberty Bell may appear on the
the City
of Black
* * *
When Jackson was appointed, there were 15 commission
slots on the America 250-Colorado 150 organization. “There is a
person on the commission affiliated with the state tourism com-
mission,” Jackson explained. “We have Dick Monfort (owner of
the Colorado Rockies), who is affiliated with the philanthropic
community. There are also representatives from various muse-
“I represent the Black communities of Colorado, from Fort
Collins to the San Luis Valley, from Gunnison to Sterling. I
think the governor appointed me because I’ve been around
for 80 years, so I know a little bit about Colorado,” said Jack-
son, with a chuckle in his voice.
Gregory Plaza,” he explained.
For additional information about the America 250-Colo-
The town will also receive a red, white and blue
makeover as part of the forthcoming festivities. The
rado 150 Commission and its growing
list of activities, visit historycolorado.
org/colorado-150 . A master online
calendar will also be added to the
website.
Drone shows wil be big part of state’s 150 th aniversary
By Don Ireland
By Don Ireland
It won’t be the lyrical “rockets’ red glare”
lighting the skies around Colorado in 2026.
Rather, dozens of patriotic-themed drone
light shows – instead of fireworks –will be
part of the many anniversary celebrations
across the Centennial State.
Drones
Drones
The America 250-Colorado 150 Commis-
sion is taking the milestone celebrations to
new heights with its “Stories in the Skies”
series, featuring nearly 150 drone shows now
through the end of December.
Some of the drone light shows were devel-
oped through a partnership with the Commis-
sion, the Colorado Tourism Office, and Visit
Denver. The recent 40-night holiday drone
light shows in downtown Denver during
The“Age of Drones”
column is a 3-time
Colorado Press Assn.
“Better Newspaper Award”
winner, 2022, 2023 & 2024
FAA-
Certified
Part 107
Drone Pilot
November and December were a
preview of what’s yet to come. (The
holiday drone show is also sched-
uled to return for a third season in
November 2026.)
Be prepared before the next power outage.
Another series of drone light
shows, called “Stories in the Sky
Statewide Series,” is sponsored by
Chevron, Tallgrass and UCHealth.
That series of shows, which began
with a drone-light display during
football game this past September,
will be staged around the state from
the Eastern Plains to the Western
“Each drone show will focus for
two or three minutes on the history
of the community in that area,” not-
ed Judge Gary Jackson, a member
of the state’s America 250-Colorado
150 Commission.
Lighted drones will take the form of the Denver Broncos’
mascot and other well-known Colorado symbols at
shows around the state this year.
Photo courtesy of Tammy Broskey
In the near future, the commemora-
follows:
and reused for numerous shows, unlike fireworks,
which are a one-time use.
However, those who prefer traditional fireworks
insist there’s nothing quite like the booming noise
when they go off in the sky – although local dogs
might not agree with their human counterparts.
• Jan. 22: The Ouray Ice Festival in
Ouray.
• Jan 30: The Snowdown Light Parade
in Durango.
Drone light shows have also become part of the
–
wood (Tennessee), Lake Compounce (Connecticut),
Fun Spot America (Florida), and Disney Springs
(Florida), as well as special events at Six Flags parks
nationwide.
• Feb. 7: The Steamboat Winter Carni
val in Steamboat Springs.
The 250-150 Commission is also of-
fering to bring the drone light shows to
communities willing to contribute a share
minutes, including 10 minutes of America
250-Colorado 150 content, in addition to
two minutes of regional content and two
minutes for up to four sponsors.
(By the way, if you’ve never seen a drone light
show – including those set to music – do a search
on YouTube. There are plenty from around the
world available to watch online, including some
Guinness Record-setting drone light shows featur-
ing 16,000 drones at a single event.)
The local communities must be will-
ing to contribute between $10,000 and
$18,000 for their local shows. The pricing
includes full coordination of the show,
FAA approvals required for an evening
show, creative development, and the cost
to execute the show, which includes hun-
dreds of drones. Availability is on a first-
come, first-served basis, pending approv-
als from the Commission and its major
sponsors. For information on sponsoring
a drone show, contact Terry.Fabrizio@
state.co.us.
* * *
A drone equipped with a thermal camera helped
locate and rescue a 61-year-old man from LaGrange,
Kentucky, a few days before Christmas. After taking
his usual walk from home that day, the man became
lost for nearly 29 hours in freezing conditions in the
wooded, mountainous area near his home.
The Oldham County Search and Rescue team was
called for assistance. They brought their thermal
drone, which can detect heat signatures from people
and warm-blooded animals. The S&R’s drone op-
erator, Justin Hilliard, spotted the lost man curled
in a fetal position, allowing ground crews to locate
and rescue him. He was taken to a waiting ATV and
transported to a hospital in good spirits.
* * *
Over the past few years, drone light
shows have been slowly replacing tradi-
tional fireworks shows in communities
across the nation. One primary reason
fireworks can create fire hazards – espe-
cially in areas prone to wildfires. Another
reason is that drones can be recharged
Receive a free 5-year warranty
with qualifying purchase*
– valued at $535.
The patrol division of the Gilpin County Sheriff’s
Office also has a drone equipped with a thermal
lens, which has been used to locate lost hikers
during the summer months. Let’s hope they don’t
receive any calls about lost people in the nearby
mountains during the current, sub-freezing nights.
A badge was given to Central City Fire Chief Linold Begg, who later presented it to Jack Dempsey,
making him an honorary fireman after the fighter visited the city in 1940.
Colorado Native William Harrison “Jack” Dempsey rose to become a global boxing star a century ago
and developed an interesting tie with Central City. Born in Manassa (south of Alamosa in the San Luis
Valley), he was nicknamed Kid Blackie and the Manassa Mauler. He competed from 1914 to 1927 and
was the world heavyweight champion from 1919 to 1926.
Dempsey is ranked No. 6 on The Ring magazine’s list of
all-time heavyweights and is fourth among its Top 100
Greatest Punchers, and in 1950 the Associated Press
voted him the greatest fighter of the past 50 years.
Later, Sam Cocks (right) handed Fire Chief Linold
Begg a badge to present to Dempsey, making him
an honorary Central City volunteer fireman following
his visit to Central City.
The Colorado Department
of Revenue’s gaming office
in Gilpin County has closed
because it is moving to a new
location.
from its former location in a
historic Central City school
building on Lawrence Street.
Richman Street (lower Dory
Hill Road).
With the major holiday
season in the rear-view mir-
ror, CDOT resumed work on
its $700 million Floyd Hill
construction project this
week.
air quality – and that people
remain in their vehicles dur-
ing the traffic stoppages.
According to the division
spokesperson, there is an
additional benefit to having
the office in Black Hawk, the
largest casino city in Colo-
rado. “Additionally, there is
hoteling space available on an
as-needed basis for Division
of Gaming staff,” a division
spokesman said.
The front of the new gaming
division office is Ameristar’s
Richman Beer Garden, which
offers entertainment, bever-
ages and limited food items
during the warm-weather
months. The several-story
building that will be used by
the state was once the Rich-
man Casino, which closed
around 2006 after it was
acquired by Ameristar. Prior
to that time, Ameristar was
called Mountain High Casino.
I-70 lane closures
Expect daytime, right-lane
closures on eastbound and
westbound I-70 between
County Road 65 (Exit 248)
and Hidden Valley (Exit 243)
this week for construction ac-
tivities and punch-list items.
Eastbound I-70 is expected to
be closed between 7 a.m. and
noon tomorrow (Friday, Jan.
9).
The new office will open on
Thursday, Jan. 15, for casino
workers renewing their state
licenses. The gaming division
is no longer in Central City
and will be at 100 Richman
Street in Black Hawk. Corre-
spondence should be mailed
to their new addressed: P.O.
Box 778, Black Hawk, CO
80422.
As a result, a section of I-70
between Homestead Road
(Exit 247) and the Veterans
Memorial Tunnels will be
closed for 20-minute periods
on Mondays through Thurs-
days between 9 a.m. and 3
p.m. A CDOT spokesperson
said the work will support
bridge construction and
straighten roadway curves
to improve safety and sight
distance. “Stay the course
on I-70 – there is no detour
route. Plan for delays up to 45
minutes as each traffic queue
clears. All work is weather-
dependent and subject to
change,” the spokesperson
said.
Michael J. Phibbs, senior
director of the Department of
Revenue’s Specialized Busi-
ness Group, which includes
gaming, previously stated that
the organization wanted to
leave Central City due to the
building’s age. “Our existing
facility has reached a point
where it requires significant
repairs and upgrades. The
building’s aging infrastructure
poses continuous challenges
State documents showed
the gaming division planned
to spend $322,950 on tenant
improvements at 100 Rich-
man Street, a building owned
by the Ameristar Casino Re-
sort Spa (Penn Gaming). The
state also is spending up to
$172,000 to relocate the office
In addition, expect a day-
time closure of the eastbound
I-70 off-ramp to Homestead
Road (Exit 247) for fence in-
stallation between 7 a.m. and
3 p.m. tomorrow (Friday).
Those taking Exit 247 will be
detoured to the El Rancho
exchange (Exit 251) and redi-
rected westbound on I-70.
The local gaming division
office move was announced in
July 2024. The new office will
house the department’s crimi-
nal investigators, compliance
investigators and licensing
staff in the building at the
junction of Highway 119 and
to our daily opera-
tions and compro-
mises our ability
to effectively serve
the public and our
employees.”
Flagging operations
Motorists should expect
potential delays for flagging
operations between 7:30 a.m.
and 5 p.m. this week on U.S.
40, with work concluding
tomorrow (Friday) afternoon.
Crews will be near the high-
way near the U.S. 6 inter-
change and Tonn Valley Drive
for hillside access and utility
work.
While the planned closings
are scheduled to last 20 min-
utes, motorists could expect
delays of up to 45 minutes as
eastbound and westbound
lines clear. As a result, some
late-afternoon closings could
take until 4 p.m. for traffic to
return to the posted speeds of
45 miles per hour.
with the cable car.
When the cable
car is open,
it’s going
to be 100
percent
visible
In addi-
tion, we’re
going to have
press events and
VIP parties. So far,
–
ciaries of a lot of good media
support. People are aware of
our project. The least of our
concerns is how we market it.
not a huge concern of ours
right now.”
July, the Mighty Argo
Continued from page 1
developers hired
Army-style Black
hope to have a soft open-
ing ahead of Memorial Day
Weekend. That will give us an
opportunity to work out any
kinks and get our staff up to
speed before we’re slammed
during the summer season.
Hawk helicop-
ters to airlift
and related
parts for the
project across
Russell Gulch
to the Upper and
Lower Terminals.
* * *
Once the project is com-
plete, visitors will be trans-
lower Argo Station terminal
to Miner’s Point at the Upper
Terminal. The new facility at
the top will include a 300-per-
son concert and event venue,
food truck areas, a bar, rest-
rooms, and observation decks
with views of the mountains
west of Idaho Springs.
When the Mighty Argo Ca-
ble Car is set to open, McFar-
land said he doesn’t believe
there will be any problems
getting the word out that it’s
open for business.
As an example, he said
groups like the Colorado
Mountain Bike Association
(COMBA) attracted thousands
of cyclists to Idaho Springs
when the Trek Trail system at
Virginia Canyon Park opened
near the Upper Terminal last
fall. “They announced on a
Wednesday in late September
that the park was going to
open. That Friday, 100 riders
showed up in town. Those rid-
ers went home and posted [on
their social-media accounts].
had 1,000 riders downtown.
There were another 1,000 rid-
has gone viral. I believe the
same thing is going to happen
* * *
Central City and Gilpin
County played roles in the
Mighty Argo project in 2025.
The project received permis-
sion from both governments
to store some of its gondola
cars and related equipment
on a lot along the Central City
Parkway last spring. The stor-
age lot is in unincorporated
Gilpin County, but the project
developer needed to use the
parkway to haul equipment to
and from the site.
Visitors will also see gold-
colored gondola cars built
to pay tribute to the region’s
historic mining era. Some
passenger cars will have glass
bottoms, allowing people to
look down to the treetops
during the journey to the top.
Other cars will be equipped to
transport mountain bikes and
their riders from the Argo Sta-
tion to the Upper Terminal.
Construction on the Argo Station “Lower Terminal” is continuing
through the winter.
Photos courtesy of the Mighty Argo project
The Upper Terminal will also
provide access to more than 16
miles of trails developed by the
Colorado Mountain Bike As-
sociation (COMBA), known as
Treks Trails at Virginia Canyon
Mountain Park.
“Ultimately, we think it
will grow to attract between
500,000 and 700,000 visitors
a year, though it will be much
lower in the first few years,”
McFarland previously esti-
mated.
Gilpin, rest of Colorado will
party like it’s…well, 2026
Senior Reporter
Need a good reason to attend a party in 2026?
Well, Gary Jackson has dozens of reasons for
Gilpin County and those who live in Colorado’s
other 63 counties this year.
Jackson was appointed to the America
250-Colorado 150 Commission in 2022 by Gov.
Jared Polis. The commission oversees plan-
ning a variety of celebrations for the national
2026. (See the related sidebar for explanations
of each anniversary.)
“The importance of this event is that we want
to focus on local people and local community
participation,” emphasized Jackson.
Marijuana sales near $1B, raises almost $20m of taxes
By Don Ireland
Senior Reporter
– Dec. 19, 2025 — Coloradans have purchased
almost $1 billion of regulated marijuana, generating almost
$200 million of tax and fee revenue in calendar year 2025,
according to new monthly data published today by the Colo-
rado Department of Revenue (DOR).
will no longer take some of the
money you won from a slot
machine jackpot.
President Donald Trump’s
“One Big Beautiful Bill Act,”
which passed in 2025, raised
the Internal Revenue Service’s minimum
$2,000 in 2026.
It was expected that Colorado would likely surpass $1 bil
lion in sales and $200 million in tax revenue by the end of
last year, according to the Colorado Department of Revenue
figures from September.
particularly on modern machines where wins
above $1,200 are common.
The November figures will be published in January, with
complete data for 2025 becoming available in mid-February.
According to researchers at TurboTax, “You
can write off your gambling losses in some cas-
es, but there are limitations. For tax year 2025,
you can write off losses up to the amount of your
winnings. Let’s say you win $4,500 and lose
$5,000; your net result is a loss of $500. Even if
your losses exceed your winnings, your deduc-
tion is capped at the total amount won ($4,500).
any tax on the $4,500 of winnings because you
can deduct the full $4,500 against your win-
nings, resulting in $0 gambling income.”
Under the previous law, which expired on
Dec. 31, 2025, casinos were required to issue
a Form W-2G to slot players who won $1,200
Congress addressed the issue by raising the
information-reporting threshold under two
Internal Revenue Code sections, 6041 and
6041A.
“Colorado’s world-class marijuana industry drives out
criminals and cartels and is supporting Colorado businesses
and jobs while driving revenue for school construction. This
important milestone is one that our state can continue to
build on,” said Gov. Jared Polis.
In its monthly marijuana sales and tax revenue report,
over$19 million, while September marijuana sales figures
were
Casino industry groups and some lawmak
ers argued that the $1,200 threshold no longer
reflects modern gambling or inflation. Gam-
ing industry advocates have said raising the
–
tem and reduce operational friction on casino
floors. As a result, effective Jan. 1, the change
is expected to reduce the number of midlevel
slot jackpots that trigger mandatory reporting,
Meanwhile, Colorado hasn’t announced
–
ing slot machine winnings in 2026. The issue
is expected to be discussed when lawmakers
return to the state capital in Denver later this
Marijuana tax and fee
$19,165,884
(Sept. 2025: $20,040,828)
2025 Calendar Year Total
$199,019,628
(Since January 2014)
$3,072,538,063
October 2025
statements for
jackpots of $1,200
or more were taxed
percent rate.
Date
Marijuana sales
An IRS spokes-
–
tional updates will
–
tions are finalized
$105,334,650
(Aug. 2025: $115,362,506)
$995,357,169
To Date Total
$17,898,291,163
September 2025
(Editor’s note:
The Weekly
Register-Call isn’t
qualified to pro-
Please consult your
accountant, CPA,
or tax advisor for
information on
gambling win-
nings and how
they affect your
taxes.)
by medical and retail marijuana stores monthly by county.
The Marijuana Tax Reports show state tax and fee revenue
collected monthly as posted in the Colorado state account-
ing system. Tax revenue comes from the state sales tax (2.9
percent) on marijuana sold in stores, the state retail mari-
juana sales tax (15 percent), and the state retail marijuana
excise tax (15 percent) on wholesale sales/transfers of retail
marijuana. Marijuana license and application fees generate
the fee revenue.
Central wil get social media guidance from NY consultant
Senior Reporter
attention outside of Gilpin
County.
ing forward to the results of
our campaigns, once again
promoting Central City as
the Richest Square Mile on
Earth.”
worked in the social
media industry for
several years. Her
resume includes work
with Live Nation,
Shabang Music Pro
ductions, and Avant
Gardner. She also cur-
director for Mr. Kills,
a New York-based fine
arts school.
For example, anyone seek-
BID’s 2025 “Great Central
City Beerfest” or “Stills in
the Hills” events could find
event. However, the pages
contained some recycled
and out-of-date informa-
tion. One online page listed
event sponsor, even though
the casino closed in 2022.
Searching online for infor-
mation about Central City’s
upcoming festivals and
–
ing and sometimes confus-
ing” in recent years. This
year, Central City’s Business
Improvement District and
city hall plan to collaborate
on a new, targeted social-
marketing strategy to draw
more attention – and, hope-
fully, additional visitors – to
the “Richest Square Mile on
Earth.”
In 2024, the BID spent
nearly $100,000 on ra-
dio advertising during the
Denver Nuggets’ basketball
season. The spending raised
questions from several lo-
cals, who noted that most of
Central City’s largest festi-
vals and events occur during
the Nuggets’ regular season
from October through April.
As the new year
begins, the CCBID
will have three first-
time members. Chuck
Spencer and Austin
Boulter were elected
to the board last spring.
After longtime president
Tom Robb retired over the
Shane Reilly of G3 Gaming
to fill his position in Decem-
ber. The other board mem-
bers are Hentschel, of GF
Gaming’s Easy Street and
Famous Bonanza casinos,
and Travis Reese of RCI
Hospitality Holdings.
Amaya Bankowski
BID President Jeff
Hentschel said, “ Bankowski
is an experienced marketer
who has worked with many
clients to promote their
brands. Central City will
benefit from her expertise
the Central City brand into
the digital space. She has a
deep understanding of how
to reach minds and hearts
through engaging content,
which will work well for
our community. We haven’t
done much digital market-
ing before, so we are look-
LinkedIn profile photo
Hentschel, who was elect-
ed BID president in August,
said the board’s decision
–
line presence is important.
The BID intends to spend
$35,000 on this project, and
the city is going to add an
additional $25,000 for her
[Bankowski’s] services.”
The BID recently contract-
ed with Amaya Bankowski to
serve as its social media con
sultant in 2026. Bankowski,
her office in Brooklyn, New
York, will coordinate Central
City’s events website and
posts. In the past, a variety
of local residents and volun-
teers handled social media
posts, which local officials
as its consultant based on a
recommendation from Spen-
cer, who had researched
potential social-media
marketing consultants for
several months prior to the
board’s Dec. 16 meeting.
Following the decision to
retain Bankowski, Spencer
remarked, “I came into this
group as the thorn [in May].
I don’t want to be a thorn. I
want this group to be suc-
cessful.”
Bankowski, who holds a
Bachelor of Arts in advertis-
ing from Temple Univer
sity’s Klein College of Media
and Communication, has
Federal drone changes wil impact Gilpin first responders
By Don Ireland
By Don Ireland
What if you woke up one morning and
learned you couldn’t buy a new TV, a cell
phone, or car parts because they were made
in China?
agencies that rely on them as part of their jobs.
the Black Hawk Police Department, and the Black
Hawk Fire Department all own legally compliant
drone models. However, purchasing accessories
for them could be difficult in the future. Plus, if one
of their drones were to crash or break, it may be
difficult to find a repair shop that has the necessary
parts in stock.
Drones
Drones
Unthinkable? For most of the estimated
480,000 drone pilots in this country, the
situation was similar as of Dec. 23, 2025.
That day was the final one for federal regula-
of Chinese-made drones, primarily from DJI
and Autel Robotics, to be sold in the U.S.
Regulators didn’t act, so the “new drone
ban” went into effect.
state and local law enforcement and emergency
response agencies that operate drone programs use
DJI technology; these programs will be at immedi-
ate risk if they no longer have access to the most
cost-effective and efficient drone technology avail-
able,” DJI wrote in a letter to Homeland Security
Secretary Kristi Noem in early December.
approvals for drones from foreign-made en-
tities, primarily because they aren’t exempt
from the government’s “covered list” – a list
of countries that manufacture drones that
forward.
The“Age of Drones”
column is a 3-time
Colorado Press Assn.
“Better Newspaper Award”
winner, 2022, 2023 & 2024
FAA-
Certified
Part 107
Drone Pilot
As a professional drone pilot who shoots photos
and videos for clients, I also face the same chal
lenges as first responders in Gilpin County. If any
of my four DJI drones needs repair, I might find my
self up a creek without a paddle. However, while I
in comparison to what Gilpin’s law enforcement
officers and firefighters are doing with their drones.
They fly drones to help protect the public and assist
officers in avoiding the potential perils of their jobs.
On Dec. 23, 2025, the FCC reiterated a long-
standing concern among U.S. officials—that Chi-
national security of the United States and to the
safety and security of U.S. persons.” The govern-
ment decision came after hearing unconfirmed
reports that foreign-made drones could contain
technology that the Chinese government might
obtain to spy on the U.S. whenever a drone is in the
air. Thousands of U.S. drone pilots sent
protests to their government leaders
opposing such a ban. However, their
protests were ignored.
• If you own or fly a drone manufactured by DJI or
Autel, it’s still perfectly legal to own and operate it
regulations.
• U.S. retailers can continue to sell DJI and Autel
models, provided they received FCC approval before
Dec. 23. It’s perfectly legal to purchase several of
Mini 4 Pro, Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro, Avata 2, Air 3S,
Last week, The Wall Street Journal reported that
the Pilot Institute, which trains drone pilots to pass
the FAA Part 107 Certification test, surveyed about
8,000 pilots about the FCC’s ban. About 43 percent
said they expect an “extremely negative” or “poten-
tially business-ending impact” on their operations.
business within two years. The Journal also reported
that many U.S. pilots had been hoarding Chinese-
made equipment in anticipation of the ban.
Neo 2, DJI Flip and the
Matrice 350 RTK enter
prise drone. However, it’s
difficult to find a retailer
or online store with any
models in stock, due to
stringent import restric
tions currently in place
by the U.S. Customs and
While the legal aspects of what hap-
pened on Dec. 23, 2025, are rather
technical, the decision made by federal
regulators boils down to several key
points that affect anyone who owns or
which manufacture 77 to 90 percent of
all drones purchased in the U.S.
On the other hand, many people believe that ban-
ning the sale of future foreign-made drone models
in the U.S. could help spark the development of new
While the majority of new drone start-ups will focus
on larger, enterprise models for use by those in
construction, mapping, agriculture, infrastructure
inspection and law enforcement, the “little guy” who
wants a small, inexpensive drone for themselves or
their kids may be left out in the woods for a while.
• The “covered list”
will also make it difficult
to purchase drone add-
on supplies such as new
propellers, batteries and
for those models still
considered legal in this
country.
They include:
In the meantime, U.S. drone pilots have their
fingers crossed, hoping a homegrown drone manu-
technological sophistication – and affordable prices
– they’ve seen over the past decade from China.
• If DJI releases any
new models, such as a DJI Mini 6 Pro or Mavic 5,
they won’t be allowed to be sold or flown in the U.S.
However, they will be available elsewhere in the
world, as no other countries have restricted Chi-
nese-made drones.
So, if you woke up tomorrow and had to buy a new
like China – what would you do? It’s a question
worth pondering.
The U.S. “ban” prohibiting the sale of new DJI and
Autel models poses challenges for individuals and
When you are handling a deceased
person’s final affairs, it is possible
that you may encounter one or more
firearms owned by the decedent at
the time of death. Such firearms
standard shotguns that are obviously
hunting firearms. Others may be
military-style firearms with pistol
grips and mounting rails. Some fire-
arms may have a selector switch near
the trigger. What is the best way to
deal with such firearms?
take appropriate steps to obtain and
occupied house, and are not already stored in a
strong gun safe that cannot be carried away, you
should make appropriate arrangements to secure
place the guns in the custody of an individual or
entity that holds a Federal Firearms License until
it can be determined whether and how to dis-
tribute the firearms to the heirs or beneficiaries.
Individuals with a Federal Firearms License can
legally take possession of a wide variety of fire-
arms, including guns that are not typical hunting
firearms, such as machine guns and short bar
rel rifles and shotguns. Such licensees have the
proper authority to possess the guns and perform
necessary background checks before any transfer.
The licensees are also likely to have proper storage
and insurance that will protect the Personal Rep-
resentative or trustee during the administration
of the estate/trust if something should happen to
the firearms during that time. Licensees holding
a Local Federal Firearms License can be found
through websites such as FFLGunDealers.net and
Gunbroker.com.
2. Determine how the
firearms are owned.
The person nominated in the estate
–
er ownership of the firearms has been
transferred to the trust by the one
making the trust, or are owned only
in the name of the deceased person.
the one making the trust typically
signs an assignment of personal
property that transfers ownership of
such property, including firearms, to the trust. If so,
legal authority to take possession of the firearms for
safekeeping and ultimate distribution.
1. Determine who has
legal authority to handle the
firearms.
You should first determine if the deceased person
had a will or trust which nominates or appoints
someone to be in charge of the decedent’s estate. If
such documents exist, obtain them and determine
who is nominated as the Personal Representative, or
appointed as the trustee, or successor trustee of the
trust. You should then contact that person to advise
The Denver Water team working on Gross Dam is celebrating a successful year after
the dam raise was listed as “95 percent complete” at the end of last year.
said Jeff Martin, Denver Water’s program manager for the Gross Reservoir Expansion
Project. “We still have 22 feet left to go to reach the new height, and we’re on track to
reach that in 2026.”
The dam-raising portion of the $531 million Gross Reservoir Expansion Project
wrapped up for the season on Nov. 14, due to the drop in temperatures. The project,
which began in the spring of 2022, is designed to nearly triple Gross Reservoir’s water
storage capacity. While the dam is in Boulder County, some of the surrounding reser
voir property extends into Gilpin and Jefferson Counties, near the Coal Creek Canyon
neighborhood.
“We have to stop placing roller-compacted concrete when temperatures drop below
freezing,” said Casey Dick, deputy program manager for the Gross Reservoir Expansion
getting too cold. That’s because if the concrete freezes while it is still curing, it can lead
to a weakened final product.”
Work associated with the dam raise will resume in spring 2026, when the weather
warms enough to complete the final 22 feet. Once that work is complete, the dam will
be 471 feet tall, 131 feet higher than the original. The completed dam will also be longer
crest that stretches 2,040 feet across the canyon.
Last year marked the second year of construction on the dam raising at Gross. As of December
2025, workers had placed more than 730,000 cubic yards of concrete. To put that in perspective,
Empower Stadium at Mile High, where the Denver Broncos play their home football games,
Gross Dam so far.
Roller-compacted concrete is a special mix of concrete that allows crews to place it on the dam
and then spread it out. The concrete is firm enough to support machinery on top of it. The process
is a fast and efficient way to raise the dam. During construction, crews raised the height of the
dam by about 1 foot per day.
Commander Jacob Upchurch presented Halle Peiffer with her
first place award for her essay How are you showing patriotism
and support for our country at the Gilpin Recreation Center.
Photo by Gary King
Construction crews use GPS technology and survey equipment to monitor how high
they’ve raised the dam.
“The way we keep track of the elevation gain is that the bulldozers are equipped with
GPS-grade control technology, which ensures each layer of concrete is spread to the
correct thickness,” Dick said. “Once the concrete is rolled and vibrated into place, each
layer ends up 1 foot thick. It’s then checked by surveyors with their equipment to verify
the exact elevation.”
7563 awarded Halle Peiffer, a senior at Nederland High School,
first place at the local-post level in the Veterans of Foreign Wars
Voice of Democracy essay contest. Peiffer received a certificate and
Work isn’t completely stopping this winter.
Mechanical and piping work will be performed inside the dam, and crews will build a stilling
basin at the base of the dam. The basin’s function is to slow the flow of water from the dam’s
spillway and safely redirect it into South Boulder Creek.
Post 7563 Commander Jacob Upchurch praised Peiffer’s essay
on this year’s topic, How are you showing patriotism and support
calling it “outstanding and a breath of fresh air to
read.”
“This season was a huge success, and our team met a ton of challenges in raising Gross
faced wildfire safety operation challenges that shut down our power supply up here.
Despite those setbacks, the dedicated team of 500 men and women rose to the challenge.
I’d just like to thank everybody who committed themselves to this project and helped us
make 2025 a success.”
–
tional scholarship programs sponsored annually by the VFW. Essay
shared locally by Post 7563 through its Facebook page and flyers
distributed to area schools in Gilpin County and Nederland.
The Voice of Democracy contest is open to students in grades
9 through 12. Local post winners advance to district competition,
then state, and finally the national level. The national winner re
ceives a $35,000 scholarship, which may be applied toward tuition
at any accredited college, university or trade school.
The Patriot’s Pen contest is open to students in grades 6 through
8. At the local level, VFW Post 7563 awards a $250 prize, while the
national Patriot’s Pen winner receives a $5,000 scholarship.
City files lawsuit claiming RCI is violating SOB regulations
At the time, Langan said he
planned to open a casino with
a nightclub and steakhouse in
the three-story building that
once housed Joey Scarlett’s
Casino and, before that, a
Bullwhackers Casino. How
ever, in June 2024, Langan
announced that he had with
drawn his application for a ca
sino license with the Colorado
Division of Revenue.
ments for any Sexually
Oriented Business that
wanted to open.
Continued from page 1
kind of sexually oriented busi
ness, that regularly violates
the licensing requirement, the
hours regulation, and conduct
restrictions.” It also cites com
pany advertising, in which
“Rick’s Cabaret describes
itself as “a premier three-
story destination combining
upscale dining and world-
class adult entertainment.”
Additional documentation on
the local businesses’ website
describes the place as the
“Strip Club in Central City.”
In the past two years,
RCI has been the sub
ject of several lawsuits
involving its nightclubs
in Texas, Denver and
New York. The larg
est of these occurred in
September 2025, when
New York Attorney Gen
eral Letitia James filed
a lawsuit that indicted
Langan and four other
RCI executives. James
and a grand jury con
cluded that RCI engaged
in a “multimillion-dollar
criminal tax fraud and
bribery scheme … to
avoid paying over $8
million in sales taxes to
the state and New York
City between 2010 and
2024.”
Mayor Jeremy Fey is the
only remaining city alderman
in office who voted to sell the
building. He later came under
public scrutiny after accepting
a free trip with Langan aboard
RCI’s jet to the company’s
headquarters in Houston.
The two, who acknowledged
a friendship, also attended an
NFL game between the Hous
ton Texans and the Denver
Broncos in RCI’s private box.
Langan also provided Fey
with a sales-based lease for a
storefront purchased by RCI
at 127 Main St.
Because the entertainers
inside the building “regularly
expose their buttocks, bare
female breasts, and often their
pubic regions, both on and
off-stage,” Rick’s Cabaret is
considered a “Sexually Ori
ented Business” under Central
City’s Land Development
Code, the lawsuit alleges. “Yet,
defendants [RCI] violate the
SOB Code by allowing enter
tainers to expose specified
anatomical areas when they
are not on a permanent and
non-movable stage. Defen
dants’ entertainers regularly
engage in the “fondling or
other erotic touching of hu
man genitals, buttocks, anus
or female breasts” (a specified
sexual activity) with other en
tertainers as well as patrons.”
The lawsuits are be
lieved to have prompted
Langan to step down
from his role as RCI’s
CEO and President in
November.
Following the initial pub
lic complaints in 2024, Fey
recused himself from all
council discussions related to
RCI. However, in 2025, Fey
changed his mind and again
began participating in RCI-
related discussions.
Last summer, several
Central City residents
and council members
continued to oppose
Rick’s Cabaret, saying
it didn’t meet zoning
regulations and raised
concerns about morality
and safety, including the
type of clientele it would
attract to the city, which
relies on Gilpin County
for sheriff’s patrol deputies
since the city disbanded its
police department nearly a
decade ago.
After RCI purchased 130
Main Street and several ad
ditional buildings in Central’s
History Downtown Gaming
district, Langan and Reese be
came regulars and frequently
attended community events.
The Council appointed Lan
gan to a seat on the Central
City Downtown Development
Authority. Around the same
time, Reese was elected to the
board of the Central City Busi
ness Improvement District.
The corner of Spring and Main streets and the Central City Parkway
has been the site of controversy in Central City for three years
after RCI and Eric Langan bought the property from the city and
announced it would be a casino with a nightclub and steakhouse.
RCI and its related compa
nies, along with Langan and
Reese, are required to re
spond to the lawsuit within 21
days if they are in Colorado;
within 35 days if they are out
of state.
litigation related to the RCI
situation.
and December. The lawsuit
was filed one week after coun
cil’s final meeting of 2025 on
Dec. 16.
On Nov. 4, Central voters
delivered council a clear mes
sage against changing the city
code, voting 153-113 to keep
existing regulations in place.
Since then, council hasn’t
publicly discussed the issue at
its meetings in late November
A court date will be sched
uled after the defendants
respond to the lawsuit.
(Editor’s note: RCI In
terim President Travis Reese
didn’t respond to the Weekly
Register-Call’s request for
comment or a response to the
lawsuit.)
However, in September,
Fey succeeded in winning a
3-2 council decision to place
a referendum on the Nov. 4
ballot, asking voters whether
the council should change
the city code to allow Sexu
ally Oriented Businesses to
operate on Main Street.
* * *
Despite the city’s lawsuit,
Rick’s Cabaret continued to
advertise its Christmas Day
hours and New Year’s Eve
events on its local website and
Facebook pages. The business
describes itself as “Central
City’s top-rated gentlemen’s
club,” open from 6 p.m. to 4
a.m. Thursday through Sun
day. It also advertises on three
city-owned billboards along
the Central City Parkway.
In August 2024, RCI sued
Central City in a federal court
in Denver after the council
upheld an administrator’s
decision regarding the Rick’s
building. The company
dropped the lawsuit a year
later, after Rick’s Cabaret and
Steakhouse opened in late
June.
Timberline, HCA jumped in after winds caused problems
By Don Ireland
who wanted to charge their
phones and other
electronic devices
because power
the developing problems.
make phone calls – while a
–
eral other local businesses
were closed due to the power
able to cook the sandwiches
on a gas stove. Kara Tinucci,
who owns JKQ BBQ with
her husband, Joe, estimated
they supplied food for 25 first
responders. Bradley, his fam-
ily, and Spencer were among
those who delivered the food
to Timberline Fire Station 5 on
Highway 119 in mid-county.
lot of our vol-
unteers had no
service, includ-
ing cellphones or
electricity.”
Most Decembers, Gilpin
County’s first responders are
–
as winter arrives in the region.
Timberline
Fire Protection
District Chief
Paul Onder told
the Weekly Reg-
ister-Call that
the wind prob-
lems led to an
increase in calls
for assistance.
“We are still writ-
ing reports and
up, but prelimi
nary numbers
from Dec. 17 to
Dec. 22, [2025],
including 19 fires
(on utility poles,
trees, wildland
fires, camping
sites, etc.) and 30
line issues (no
fire). The rest
were medical calls, motor
vehicle accidents, carbon-
lines, etc.”
One of the
calls Miller made
was to Nicholas
Spencer, who
owns the Peak
to Peak Market
in Black Hawk.
When Miller
asked if Spencer
had any pre-
made sandwiches
available, Spencer
said his inventory
had been quickly
depleted by Gil
pinites who came
to the store after
losing their refrig-
erator food. How-
to donate some of
the bottled water,
he had remaining
to the HCA.
“We had sold out our sand-
wiches probably within the
first five or six hours after the
wind situation started,” re-
called Spencer. “We told Terri
got in contact with Larry
Bradley, their chef. He made a
bunch of pulled-pork sand-
wiches and other food. So, we
got those, plus the cases of
water and chips, up to the fire
department.”
However, unusually pow-
erful winds caused the most
problems this year in the
county. Between Wednesday,
Dec. 17, and Monday, Dec.
22, parts of the region were
hit by near-hurricane-force
winds of 100 miles per hour
that toppled trees, knocked
down power lines, and caused
other problems. For example,
lost power to their homes
on Wednesday, Dec. 17, and
didn’t get service back un-
til Sunday, Dec. 21. Several
Central City and Black Hawk
residents and small businesses
power outages.
Recalled Ondr, “We contact
ed HCA because the crews had
been running call to call for 15
hours with no opportunity to
cook or eat. HCA, in collabora-
tion with JKQ Barbecue, pro-
vided food to all the crews as
they continued responding, but
they were able to throw down
a few bites between calls. The
next day, Larry Koppelman
[HCA’s vice president] brought
burritos to the station. This
was awesome, as the crews
were still extremely busy.”
Without power, food spoiled
in non-running refrigerators
and freezers. Others com-
plained that their cellphone
service didn’t work for days.
Yet others couldn’t leave
their homes because the wind
blocked their driveways.
Chief Paul Ondr of Timberline Fire Protection District.
Added Miller, “We rallied
and got them fed. Those guys
at JKQ are just the best. Clare
Stone [HCA’s vice president]
was able to deliver some of the
food to Station No. 5, and the
guys were very, very happy.”
As a result, Miller began
calling HCA members and
others – whose phone service
or power wasn’t out – to or-
ganize what could be done to
help the first responders. “As
president of HCA, I’m the first
they need our assistance,” said
Miller. “Fortunately, we didn’t
have any problems with our
cellphone service down here.
I was able to scramble and
News of Gilpin’s wind-
related issues also quickly
of the High Country Auxiliary,
the nonprofit that supports
TPFD and Gilpin’s other first
responders. Miller and her
husband, Eddie, were in Mis
sissippi when they learned of
Added Chief Ondr, “As of
Dec. 26, we have responded
to 148 calls in December. We
typically average 50-60 per
month. Currently, we are at
803 calls in 2025. Before that,
our busiest year was 2017,
with 756 calls.”
The wind-related issues led
the Gilpin County Sheriff’s Of
fice to open a warming shelter
in the Gilpin County School
complex. The Black Hawk
its building to several people
Rebranding and other changes for Bigfot Casino wil take time
company’s gaming devices at
and the Dragon Tiger Casinos
in neighboring Central City.
in there now. We’re not going
to replace all of them. We
might get some new machines
because some of them in there
Continued from page 1
One of the key tasks con-
cerns the slot machines
currently at the Z Casino,
Gaming, also known as RunI-
tOneTime LLC. Maverick filed
for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
protection in a federal court in
Texas in July. The bankruptcy
proceedings included several
in Colorado and other states.
The Z Casino, previously
called Bullwhackers, opened
during the early years of gam
ing in Black Hawk.
“They put all of the slot
monitoring and surveillance
systems [from the three
casinos] into one big com-
puter network up at Grand
Z,” Smith explained. “In order
for us to get going, we have to
order [computer] servers from
China. Then we’ve got to get
them programmed. It could
take a long time to get the
stuff from China.”
In addition, Smith will
need to order new indoor and
outdoor signage for the build
ing as it rebrands from the
Z to the Bigfoot Casino. The
signage will require approval
–
ty Development Department.
any issues with the new signs.
“We’ve got a sophisticated
Springs that most sign people
don’t have.”
Once that’s completed, slot
machine manufacturers –
Konami, Light and Wonder
– will come to the Bigfoot
Casino to update any ma-
chines Smith decides to keep.
According to court docu-
ments, Z Casino has 313 slot
machines across its three
of a Maverick computer net-
work that also connects to the
Smith’s Bigfoot Casino will
also need to obtain a liquor
license from the City of Black
few months and includes a
public hearing and approval
by the city’s Board of Alder-
men.
Be prepared before the next power outage.
Another item on Smith’s
checklist will be to create a
doorway connecting the Big-
foot and Sasquatch casinos,
so patrons can freely walk
between them. “I’d like to get
a set of stairs built like Bull
whackers had [to connect the
casinos]. Bullwhackers had a
set of stairs, and I’d like to get
them put back in,” said Smith.
The businessman’s $25 mil-
lion purchase of the Z Casino
parking lot – something the
Sasquatch lacks – and a gray
metal building across the back
driveway from the casino that
includes office space, a confer-
ence room and a maintenance
shop. Smith noted, “They’ve
kind of kept us out of everything
until they get ready to leave.”
Smith doesn’t yet know how
though he joked that he plans
to remove any “No Sasquatch
Z Casino property. “I have
I was thinking of going over
there and making a video of us
crushing that sign,” he mused.
Ed Smith in front of “Harry,” the statue namesake for
before that, such as upgrading
the computer system.”
the two Central City Maverick
the bankruptcy proceedings.
(Editor’s note: Marnell
Companies didn’t respond
to the WR-C’s request for an
interview or information
about its plans for the Grand
Z or Dragon Tiger casinos in
–
quired as part of the Maver-
Decisions about staffing,
hours and operations will also
face the new owners. Does
Smith have a date for when
he will receive the keys to the
Z Casino? “No, I don’t at this
just got a lot of stuff to do
For the time being, Mav-
erick Gaming continues to
operate the Z, Grand Z and
Dragon Tiger casinos until
Smith takes over the Z Casino
and Marnell Companies an-
nounces its plans to take over
Receive a free 5-year warranty
with qualifying purchase*
– valued at $535.
Call 877-871-4308
to schedule your free quote!
Black Hawk businessman and casino owner Ed Smith purchased the Z Casino on Gregory
a surface parking lot and a gray metal building (right of center), both accessible from Selak
Street.
The amount of money flowing to sports and
entertainment is massive. We seem to have
yet we complain about the cost of groceries.
While the world and nation seem violent
and disruptive, this has always been a troubled
planet, given the diversity of cultures, genders,
religions, governments, and the widening gap
between wealth and poverty. What makes
this so visible is that all this news is broadcast
modern technology.
Ironically, professional athletes and coaches
are paid millions of dollars, while the public
complains about the high cost of food. The
production, processing, and distribution of
food. We should be thankful that we have
grocery stores with wholesome, fresh, and vast
EDITORIAL ………………………………………………… 303-906-9902
ADVERTISING …………………… 303-906-9902 or 303-773-8313
Think about the Civil War being broadcast
on TV every night. Think about coverage of
the Crusades to free Jerusalem. What about
Rome?
LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES ………………………… 303-906-9902
SUBSCRIPTIONS ………………. 303-906-9902 or 303-773-8313
The food industry in America is amazing,
and the quality of farm- and ranch-raised veg-
The point is that we may have our priorities
mixed up.
World War II and MovieTone News first
brought war coverage to local theaters as pho-
tographers captured the many battles.
about the lack of snowfall and the drought. We
are oblivious to the impending disaster of closing
and solar to meet soaring electricity demand.
violent since the beginning, with Adam and
Eve.
Current and future energy demands are in
jeopardy because we’re helpless without our
phones, lights, electric gas pumps, stoplights,
and the list goes on. We can’t hold our high-
power outages in Gilpin and Clear Creek coun-
ties are a prelude to the future.
The new phenomenon, Artificial Intelli-
world. Are humans going to be smarter than
computers? Science fiction novels and movies
are coming true as the Flash Gordon cartoon
drones are now the latest weapons of modern
warfare.
Think back to the Colonists who had almost
nothing, yet they survived and prospered.
Americans have great resilience when chal-
lenged. As we end this year and look ahead
to the future, there are serious challenges to
meet. It will be for all of us, not they or them,
but all of us working together for the common
good of our great nation.
What a world we live in, and each of us plays
a part in this great saga of civilization.
***
I’m almost bleary-eyed from watching so
much football. Millions of sports fans fill col-
lege and NFL stadiums to watch amazing ath-
letes run, throw and catch a pigskin. If football
isn’t enough, we have basketball, hockey, soc
cer, boxing, wrestling, track, skiing, and horse
and car racing. America is gorging on amateur
and professional sports.
