Jacqueline Hart Gibson, Gilpin County. The High Country Auxiliary, HCA, held their chili dinner and silent auction fundraising event on March 7, 2020. The festivities kicked off a little earlier this year, at 4 p.m., and were still going strong after 7 p.m. The parking lot was packed by 5 p.m.! 

Chili and bargain hunting enthusiasts may have gotten a heads up that this year the items up for bidding were more diverse and plentiful. Gift cards from local businesses were available from: New Moon Bakery, Roy’s Last Shot, Grand Z, and Crosscut Pizzeria. Handcrafted items from stained glass lamps to a fishing rod designed specifically to catch larger trout were some of the most unique and popular items available at auction. The board members of the HCA reported they were happy to have Sheriff Armstrong serve as auctioneer this year. 

For those who came for the food, HCA did not disappoint. I was not able to find a source to reveal detailed recipes for the four types of chili offered, vegetarian, red, white, and green, but many event goers reported the chili was delicious. Spouses could be seen removing plates from diners who were indulging, undoubtedly hoping to avoid unpleasantness later in the evening! 

Among the activities for the evening, aside from the packed auction, were girl scout cookies sales, fire truck tours, and participants were offered free reflective address signs, to help emergency responders locate residents more efficiently. 

For chili lovers averse to loud rooms, packed with people, like this journalist, warm and welcoming hosts created a comfortable atmosphere. Volunteer Michelle Sullivan, was available to not only describe why she enjoyed being a member of the group serving in HCA and supporting Timberline, Gilpin County Animal Rescue Team and other emergency responders, but also to impart wise stories as I passed through. 

Michelle shared she had witnessed the passing of her parents, her husband’s parents and finally her husband and a close friend this past year. A friend of Michelle’s told her he knew she would be okay because she is strong, she is a survivor. “I don’t like that word, survivor.” Michelle said. “Survival is just existing. I choose joy. And that is what I have here, with these people and the relationships we’ve developed.” Her advice to all, “Choose Joy.” 

The next HCA event is the yearly Flea Market on June 6 and 7, 2020. See you there! 

(Originally published in the March 12, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)