The American Dream IS possible

Sometimes we tend to forget how much is achieved by regular folks from small communities in our country. I have been reminded of that again lately, with the increased public prominence of General John Abizaid, Commander of the Central Command for 27 countries in the Middle and Far East. He was raised in Coleville by his widowed father and was a schoolmate of several of our local residents. He went on to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, then progressed up the military ladder. He is a great example of what can be achieved, if we make the most of our abilities and opportunities.

Last call for flu shots

Carolyn and her staff from the Mono County Health Department will be at the Walker Senior Center Tuesday, Nov. 28 from noon to 2 p.m. If you haven't already got your shot this year, this is an easy way to take care of it.

New animal control law

A few days ago, all owners of licensed dogs were sent a mailing from Mono County Animal Control. This explained the new California law taking effect January 1, 2007, regarding tying dogs to stationary objects like trees. It can be considered either an infraction (with a fine) or a misdemeanor (with a fine and possible jail sentence). If, for any reason, you didn't receive the mailing and will be affected by this law, contact Animal Control at (760) 932-5630 with any questions. This is important for the health and well-being of all dogs in the area and will definitely be enforced.

Local volleyball players honored

Last week, some of the Class 1A West League volleyball players were recognized for their excellence. The league's "player of the year" was our own Kymberlee Curti from Coleville High School. Our coach, Kevin Kraft, was named "coach of the year." The first team included Kymberlee Curti and Kayla Johnson of CHS, with Amara Rowley and Kimberly Torley receiving second-team honors. Way to go, girls!

Coleville Boosters dinner

Saturday night we had a super Mexican dinner (our compliments to the chefs), which we enjoyed with lots of good company. There were 60 raffle prizes, an auction of desserts that were to die for, as well as a beautiful and interesting variety of silent auction items. The winner of the big door prize was Olga Gilbert. The preliminary tally is that approximately $5,000 was raised that evening for this group's future generosity to the high school's athletic and academic programs. Thanks go to all who helped to make it such a success.

Longtime volunteer retires

After almost 17 years of volunteering, both at the original senior center and then later for the Antelope Valley Senior Citizens Workshop (thrift store and recycling center), Alice Campbell has tendered her resignation as a workshop board member and store volunteer. Through the years, she and her husband, Ray, were involved in helping to put on so many events for seniors, as well as volunteering at the thrift store. A big thank-you goes to her, and we hope she enjoys her second retirement.

This and that

n Dec. 2 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Antelope Valley Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization will host their yearly bazaar and pancake breakfast at the school cafeteria. They will be serving pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee. There will be booths with crafts and other items, as well as raffle prizes and gift baskets put together by the students. The proceeds go to help the school and teachers to obtain additional teaching aids. If you'd like to rent a booth, call Sara at (530) 495-2978.

n Dec. 1 and 2, the Antelope Valley Lions Club basketball tournament will take place at Coleville High School. We'll give game times and teams playing when available.

n Remember the Northern Mono County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Social on Dec.16 beginning 5:30 p.m. at the Walker Community Center. You must make your reservations no later than Dec. 10 at (530) 495-9666 or (530) 495-2508. Their holiday home decorating and lighting contest will be judged Dec.12, but also must be entered by Dec.10 by contacting the chamber at either of the above numbers. First prize is $100, so it will be worth trying for.

n Last week, members of Antelope Valley United Methodist Church filled 70 boxes with items for children in Third World countries for Christmas gifts and sent them to the Rev. Billy Graham's son for distribution overseas.

n Lynne Katusich can be reached at lynnekat@gbis.com or (530) 495-2552.