Jacqueline Hart Gibson, Gilpin County. Cake walks, abundant supplies of candy on trick or treat street, and of course, the haunted house, were among the most popular attractions at this years Halloween bash at Gilpin County combined School. Other activities included; pumpkin carving and costume contest, bounce houses and a silent auction. 

Ninth graders, Abigail Smith, Jada Leal and Sierra Ramsey, reported that although they did not actually win the cake walk it was their favorite event. Abigail, who came to the event with her friends dressed as a frat boy, stated jovially, “You get cake if you win. My friend won, so I got cake!” The young ladies also said the Haunted House was well acted and the lights and other effects were great this year. 

Sixth graders Sebastion Panelo and Dennis Mahoney were impressed with the candy as well. But this year they were most excited about getting to scare people in the haunted house. Although they were not on the roster for official fright duties on Saturday night, Dennis said after they went through, “The lady,” said to them, “Hey, you wanna work this?” The young men couldn’t resist and excitedly volunteered. They smiled widely recounting their antics, hiding behind a large black well and grabbing the feet of their classmates as they passed. 

Grade schoolers Aaron and Aliza Dysart attended the festivities with mom LA, local dance teacher extraordinaire. The family came dressed as Lego people from the Lego movie, at dad’s behest, although Paul was unfortunately unable to attend because of work. Aliza was the lucky winner in a cake walk and happily reported she won FOUR cupcakes! 

A silent auction benefiting GCS and supplied by local vendors offered early Christmas shopping opportunities. Donated items included; a one hour massage from Get Moving Chiropractic, Subscriptions to The Mountain-Ear,  Christmas ornaments from Hippie Geek Studios, a one year subscription to the Weekly Register Call, a gift certificate to JKQ BBQ, two hours of electrical services from Bohan Electrical and donated tickets to Bandimere Speedway. 

The event was scheduled to last until 8 p.m. but was still winding down at almost 9 p.m., indicating this years Halloween Carnival was a massive success. The hard work and dedication of the GCS PTA, and staff, student and parent volunteers, was apparent in the laughter and satisfied smiles of all who attended this Gilpin gala. 

(Originally published in the October 31, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)