Last weekend, all eyes were on the Paseo walkway in downtown Colton for the Second Community Earp Day event organized by CITYTALK w/DrG and the Colton Council of Churches. About 175 people gathered at the “center” of town, dressed in western attire and ready to take a step back into Colton History. Families and friends, as well as several local churches came early in costume to set-up information booths and offer children’s games. In addition, the event featured a gold-panning demonstration, live animals, and a free pancake breakfast.
The entire event was focused on bringing the community together to celebrate our historical roots. When the City of Colton was established in 1887 the trains were creating a community of bustling life and townsfolk living in the area at the time, were served and protected by Virgil Earp, one of the famous (and notorious) members of the wild-west Earp family. This event was a very good way of bringing back to life our Colton history, which is of special interest to DrG and his CITYTALK w/DrG programs.
“This was a nice event,” said Carlos Araiza, President of the Colton Lions Club, who brought several members to provide the homestyle breakfast of pancakes and sausage for everyone, free of charge, during the event. With western music flavoring the bustling activity the families were engaged in the wide array of children’s games which were part of each information booth, set up along the Paseo walkway.
One of the highlights of this event that brought curious eyes to center stage was the presentation on panning for gold given by Mr. Jim Strohm, known as “Tumbleweed.” He gave an interesting talk on gold-panning including a hands-on demonstration of gold panning techniques with authentic equipment, authentic soil samples and “real” gold.
“The kids really loved this show,” exclaimed Karina Martinez who brought her kids to this event to participate. Additional features of the community event was the presence of three horses, and a live petting-zoo, which was a special treat for small kids and large kids alike. The animals were well-trained, and provided just the right atmosphere to complement the western Earp Day theme.
For many DrG supporters, this type of gathering is fairly common. DrG always enjoys meeting with friends, and sharing fun times, great food and positive fellowship. As in typical fashion, DrG usually dresses up in one of his many costumes and loves taking pictures in order to create a photo-diary with the people who attend. This event was no exception, as DrG was dress in a period “lawman” outfit, including hat, vest, tie, jeans and a long jacket. Just about every attendee also dressed-up in western wear making this event a well-adorned community round-up.
The purpose of this gathering was not only to celebrate the western Earp theme, but planned in order to enjoy the company of good friends, good food, and good vibes. “Everything is positive,” said Delma Lesdesma, who helped the Colton Woman’s Club set up their booth. For those who know Dr.G, which are many in the community, know that he maintains close contact with the residents. He is available, likes to create interesting community activities, and is always willing to help “roll up his sleeves.”
Congratulations to Dr.G and his crew for putting together a positive community event. May he be blessed with good health, and may his service to the community continue to be a blessing to all those with whom he comes into contact.