Once a month throughout the summer, the Douglas County Senior Center organizes a hike at one of the innumerable beautiful spots in and around the Carson Valley. In June, Ranchos residents Mario and Judy Giallongo participated in an excursion to Hot Springs Creek Falls (also known as Markleeville Falls), just outside of Grover's Hot Springs.
When they arrived in the parking lot at 9 a.m. it was already 85 degrees. The group set off toward the waterfall on the 1 1/2-mile trail.
Things got a little tricky along the way as Mario has a form of muscular dystrophy and uses a power wheelchair. Though the grassy areas of the path presented a challenge, Mario expertly operated the chair through the uneven terrain. Then there was soft sand and a wooden bridge to cross. Mario says the maneuverability of his chair combined with the assistance of others on the hike helped him along.
Then they came to a point on the trail where it was impossible for Mario to continue. The path leads to a series of boulders that must be climbed up and over in order to make it all the way to the falls. Mario simply stayed on the side of the trail, pulled out a book and enjoyed the gorgeous day while Judy and the rest of the group trekked onward.
Navigating the boulders was a feat she didn't expect, but Judy says she enjoyed the challenge of doing something she didn't think she could do.
"I'm still amazed," she says with a laugh.
The hikers enjoyed a picnic lunch on the walk back from the breathtaking falls.
It didn't bother Mario that he didn't see the falls for himself.
"I enjoy just getting out in the open and being around other people. Oh, I love it!" he said, beaming.
This wasn't Mario's first hike, either. Judy says she's got a photo of him on top of Mammoth Mountain. The Giallongos and some friends took a tram part of the way up the mountain then hiked to the summit together.
Although she didn't accompany him on the Hot Springs Creek Falls hike (it was too hot for her that day), Mario's dog, Salinas, is a constant companion. She is an assistance dog provided through the nonprofit organization Canine Companions for Independence, and has been with Mario since 1998.
They are a familiar sight on their daily walks, and she has become a mascot of sorts for the neighborhood. Judy says Sali even knows which neighbors give out treats and will gently guide you toward the goodies.
She accompanies Mario on many trips organized by the senior center, most recently a bus trip to Boomtown. Her claim to fame is her ability to put a smile on just about anyone's face.
"She loves everybody and wants to join right in," said Mario.
If you see Mario and Sali out and about in the neighborhood, be sure to give them a wave or stop to say hello. Having a doggy biscuit on hand wouldn't hurt either.
n Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com.
