A special Memorial Day

In spite of questionable weather, May 27 at the Coleville Cemetery was one of the most impressive events I have been to in many years. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3567 had their annual Memorial Day ceremony. As always, it was well attended by local adults, as well as the students from the Coleville schools.

This year had a very special bonus, in that Gen. John Abizaid, a graduate of our high school, attended with his wife, Kathy, also a Coleville graduate. During the ceremony, he was asked to say a few words, and he responded with a very motivating brief talk to the students and adults there.

I was fortunate enough to meet him and his wife, and it was one of the high points of my life. I can tell you that the general and his wife are two of the nicest and most down-to-earth people that I have met. What a pleasure. I will tell you more after he speaks at the Coleville High School graduation this Friday evening.

Coleville graduation

This Friday, 6 p.m., at the high school gym, the graduation will take place. As always, it will be fun evening, with great stories about the kids and their successes. They will also be addressed by Gen. Abizaid, which will be something I won't miss.

Success story

Coleville High graduating senior Brittney Rupp is the recipient of a national honor for superior academic achievement. Brittney has been selected for membership in the National Society of High School Scholars. This group recognizes top scholars and only invites students with superior academic achievements to belong. The society's goal is to empower those special students with scholarship opportunities to enhance their skills and have a positive impact on the world. What a compliment. Our congratulations to her.

Relay for Life

Our local Relay for Life team is again very busy putting together several fundraisers for the American Cancer Society's Relay that will be held at Lampe Park in Gardnerville on July 26. Our group will start fundraising with bins at local businesses to collect recyclable aluminum and plastic.

The Walker Country Store, Walker River Real Estate and Sierra Retreat Pizza Parlor are all selling stars and moons for $1 each. Walker River Real Estate will hold a combination garage and bake sale starting at 9 a.m. June 14. They have more activities scheduled, which I will tell you about as the times approach.

Please find a way to contribute to this wonderful cause. If you would like to participate in Relay for Life, contact either Tammy at 495-2239 or Mariann at 495-2819.

New RV park coming

Ground will soon be broken for an RV park adjoining the Meadowcliff Lodge on Highway 395. It will contain 34 spaces, including nine pull-through spaces for overnight stays or longer. They will be providing water, sewer, electricity, WiFi, laundry facilities and a meeting room. In addition, this will be one of the few places that provides private individual restrooms, each with its own shower. This will be a great place for travelers through our area to stop over and enjoy our valley.

New fitness studio

I heard from Brenda Fisher that she will be opening Healthy Bodies fitness studio behind the red A-frame in Topaz Ranch Estates on June 12. The grand opening will take place from 5-7 p.m. at 1290 Albite Drive. They will be offering a ton of different types of classes and training for everyone of all ages. It is a great opportunity for those of us to get these services much closer to home. You can call Brenda at (775) 720-4199.

Kids vs. cops softball

Saturday, Mike and I attended the third annual game between these teams. It was really fun, and even more so when the kids won in the bottom of the final inning. The Coleville Boosters did their usual fine job of supporting the kids and programs. Try not to miss it next year.

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