It was one of those wonderful Ketchum nights when locals gathered together to honor one of their own. After 22 years at the Gold Mine, Director Jan Mason was retiring and The Community Library threw a party to thank her for all her selfless and caring work. During her reign, the Gold Mine contributed millions of dollars to the library, clothed and furnished thousands of folks and won the hearts of everybody in the valley. Now, that's a legacy few can attain—and she did it all with that wonderful smile. Is there any doubt why we all love her?
I was fortunate to work for the library from 2000 to 2007 and got to know Jan well. But even before that, when I was involved in entertainment in the community, whenever a costume or a stage prop was needed, Jan and her gals were always there with the perfect idea or fit. Why? Because they were in show business as well. Many a time I would tell Jan what I was looking for and she would come up with it. Those gals knew comedy and never let me down. What wonderful laughs and times we all had.
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Friday night at the library was dead-on in its preparation for Jan's event as Colleen Daly and her marvelous staff outdid themselves in assuring every well-wisher that he or she would remember this night for a long time. Everyone was presented with a photo of a smiling Jan Mason on a stick, wonderful hot'dourves catered by the town's key restaurants, the song lyrics to "Happy Trails" and short speeches. It was a night to remember, a lifetime to forget.
Jan was so gracious in her farewell talk that even the toughest to please had a bit of moisture in their eyes. We'll miss you, Jan. You gave us all so much. Thank you.
Nice talking to you.
