GilpinDems Fundraiser: Mission Accomplished

The Gilpin County Democratic Party hosted its annual fundraiser on Sunday, August 13 at the Gilpin County Arts Association in Central City. With over 40 attendees, including our friends from the Clear Creek Dems, the event featured all Democratic elected officials who directly serve our community:

• Congressman Joe Neguse

• Senator Dylan Roberts

• Representative Judy Amabile

• Commissioner Sandy Hollingsworth

• Commissioner Susan Berumen

• Coroner Zane Laubhan

• County Clerk and Recorder Sahari McCormick

• Assessor April Nielsen

Also in attendance were future candidates for office:

• Lesley Smith (House District 49 as Judy Amabile plans to run for state senate)

• Elliott Hood (CU Regents)

• Tami Velasquez (Gilpin County School Board)

As live music provided by Tres Burros played, guests enjoyed fine food, beverages, and lively conversation. One guest commented, “I always enjoy this event because the people are so happy and the art gallery, with all of its historical value and local art, is such a wonderful space. It just feels good to be here.”

We are grateful to donors who provided as well as those who purchased auction items including art, jewelry, wine, food, and services such as acupuncture, reiki, and Pilates training. Funds raised will primarily be dedicated to help promote high-quality candidates, especially those in our community, who support the safety and education of our children, proper resources for teachers, the Community Center, first responders, and the integrity of elections in our community.

After Senator Roberts and Representative Amabile shared their cooperative vision for the people of Colorado, Congressman Neguse took the stage. After the applause subsided, he spoke about the challenges of working in Washington D.C. during the past seven months. As an example, he described Republican priorities as “deeply divorced from the values of the American people as demonstrated by a policy proposal to defund the Department of Justice.” In closing his remarks, he went on to say, “While fear can be contagious, so can hope. While there may be plenty to be fearful about, the Democratic Party is the party of hope.”

As speakers Lesley Smith, Elliott Hood, and Carolyn Collins Petersen concluded, notable members of the community in attendance were recognized and honored for their leadership and tireless energy: former Commissioner Gail Watson, former GilpinDem Chairs Julia Shaw and Tom Wingfield along with current Chair Eric Douglas. These individuals, along with others who were unable to attend, have helped to drive the local party’s success.

Written by Phil Gibbs. Photos courtesy of April Nielsen.