Schmalz named Citizen of Year
Central City Elks Award
Central City Elks Lodge 557 awarded Buddy Schmalz “Citizen of the Year” in recognition of his community service. The Lodge, which organized in 1900, has made its home in the same building midway along Central’s Main Street since 1902. There are currently more than 150 members.
Although the “Citizen of the Year” recipient doesn’t have to be an Elks member, Schmalz has belonged to the Lodge since 1987. “He’s done a tremendous amount of good work for the community,” said Exalted Ruler Bill Mehrer. That was affirmed by another Lodge leader, D’Lynn Morse, Leading Knight. “Buddy’s given to this community all year long, as (Central City) Mayor and now as (Gilpin County) Commissioner.” Schmalz grew up in Central City and now resides there with his wife and children. He is the award-winning brew master of Dostal Alley’s pub. Last October, Schmalz was elected to the Board of County Commissioners and now represents Gilpinites on numerous local, state and regional committees. He’s also known to many in the community for coaching local youth in various sports.
The Elks presented Schmalz with a framed certificate in honor of his efforts and achievements at a special ceremony earlier this month. “He was so surprised,” Morse said. The Elks had not given the award for several years, said Mehrer, but are pleased to bring it back this year. Schmalz was unaware of the awards and confirmed Morse’s assessment, “I was really surprised,” he said, “It was very nice. I am honored.”