Community-minded attend help day

For those of you who weren't able to attend the Community Help Day, Saturday, you really missed seeing what community can be about. There were 28 volunteers attending, each of whom worked to the maximum. So much was accomplished at the park, and everyone had a good time to boot. The teamwork and camaraderie by all were wonderful to see. There had been hopes of getting a certain amount of the work done by 4 p.m. Not only was that goal reached, but far more, and all by 1 p.m. We had a dump truck and two tractors working all morning, moving the dead branches and junk to burn piles for our fire department to burn at a later time. Local residents, including VFW Post 3567 members, were joined by two Marines from Mountain Warfare Training Center, which was really a help. We got a chance to relax and visit with each other over a tasty barbecue lunch cooked by three Lions Club members. There are too many people to thank individually, but you all know who you are and that you were appreciated.

Relay For Life

The American Cancer Society is holding a Relay for Life in Gardnerville on Aug. 26. A local team is being formed - the Antelope Valley Survivors. If you are interested in participating, please contact Tammy at 495-2239 or MaryAnn at 495-2819. Sponsors are also needed for the team; checks can be made payable to The American Cancer Society. The local team is being formed in honor of Diane Elliott as well as other Valley residents who have fought or are fighting cancer. If you can join the walk or make a contribution, the team will be most appreciative. Plan ahead for this special event.

Valley Regional Planning Advisory Committee

RPAC met July 6 and approved two new alternate members, Dick Petterson and Dave Newman. The committee discussed and began formation of groups to study any possible amendments to the Mono County General Plan for our area's benefit. The public is welcome to participate in these groups and give their input. The first group formed will study development in the Valley, but there will be others formed at the next meeting Aug. 3. If you are interested, contact Lynne at the phone number or e-mail address shown at the end of this column.

West Walker River Fishing Derby

The river is still far from prime condition, but as of July 9, a 4-pound, 8-ounce trout had been registered at the Walker General Store. With all the prizes to win and the bragging rights that go with it, get out there and see if you can catch a winner.

This and That

n Lee and Nancy Sims are justifiably proud of their daughter, Molly, who participated in the Tour of the California Alps (Death Ride) bicycle ride over Ebbetts Pass, Monitor Pass and Carson Pass on Saturday. The ride is 129 miles, with total climbs of approximately 15,000 feet. Over 5,000 riders applied and 3,000 lucky (??) ones were selected by lottery. You all have my respect.

n The Fire Commission is meeting tonight at 6 p.m. at the Walker fire station. It is open to the public.

n John and Mary Nygard wrote to express their thanks to the four fire agencies that responded to the June 27 fire on their property. They said the efforts by our local fire department, the Mountain Warfare Training Center firefighters, Bureau of Land Management and a truck from East Fork Fire saved their home. They just wanted everyone to know that they didn't suffer the worst damage that was possible that day and that they appreciate the concern and help they received from their neighbors as well as the firefighters.

n Lisa Welch is a Johnson Lane resident and can be reached at 267-9350.