There are a variety of long-standing events in Teller County. We are a community rich in history and as time goes on, locals respect traditions and are determined to protect them. I’m a firm believer in maintaining the status quo while also organizing things so they work like new. Afterall, it takes everything that happened in the past to make today a reality but a good reorganization will keep things fresh.

Recently, I got a flier about the Cripple Creek GOLD RUSH Rodeo and noticed that things are different than what I remember. The rodeo, which happens June 13–15, has rebranded. I’ve been to the rodeo in the past but have not really noticed it lately, UNTIL NOW. They have polished the buckle, so to speak, enhanced the location and are ready to show the community why they continue to exist. The City’s website says, “The City of Cripple Creek and Top of the World Rodeo Committee proudly present the Cripple Creek GOLD RUSH Rodeo. For over a decade, Top of The World Rodeo has been sanctioned a CPRA (Colorado Professional Rodeo Association) rodeo. In 2025 the rodeo is being rebranded in honor of the area’s rich mining history.”

Wonderful things are happening at the fairgrounds in Cripple Creek as things change and yet, remain the same. The rodeo in June is one thing and then there’s the Teller County Fair at the end of July stretching into August. There are so many activities surrounding the fair, and maybe you have always known about them but some of these are new to me. The fair is July 25 – August 3. A Free Senior Lunch & Show is scheduled on July 30 with the 4H kids. There is a talent show that day. The buyers’ dinner and a livestock auction are scheduled for August 2. Then, August 3 is the Little Rascals Pee Wee Show. The website, http://tcafas.org/ says, “The Teller County Association of Fairs and Shows is a not-for-profit organization that serves Teller County and the public. We provide entertainment in a safe and family-oriented environment while providing education on agriculture and its importance.”

The crux of this column is to express the value of showing your age because it honors the history you have endured thus far. It also expresses that rebranding creates a fresh look, which often gets you noticed as you grow older. I have mentioned two wonderful events but there are many more activities happening in Teller County. You can check the community calendars through the City’s websites and the chambers of commerce to see what’s up.

The phrase “we are not getting any younger” is meaningful in a good way when it comes to tradition. A long-standing activity has value. My hope is that values always age with grace and reverence in order to keep history thriving into the future. The Rodeo and Fair are just two examples. There are many more in our great community.

Contact Gayle Gross at iwantto@soarwithnetworkfundraising.org or 719-233-9902 if you want your nonprofit to be part of this column or to be part of the Nonprofit Cooperative of Teller County. Gayle Gross has worked with nonprofits since 1998. Now, she facilitates SOAR’s Nonprofit Cooperative of Teller County. Meetings are on the second Tuesday of each month, 9:30 a.m. – 10:45. The group meets at Reserve Our Gallery or at a nonprofit’s location. Join the group on March 12 at the gallery.