A great story

A very proud local grandma, Betty Camp, passed this story on to us. Her grandson, Andy Ringnes, graduated from Coleville High School in 1999, then went on to get his degree from the University of San Diego. During his college years, he worked summers for the U.S. Forest Service in Northern California, as a wildland firefighter. Four years ago, he met Meredith Anello, who was also a firefighter. After fire season, Meredith returned to her home in Ohio, which was the beginning of their long-distance relationship. They ultimately became engaged, and are now living in New Orleans, where Andy attends Tulane Medical School. A few months ago, Cosmopolitan magazine announced their first "Funfearlesscouple" contest. Thirteen hundred couples entered to win the first prize of a six-day, five-night trip to Paris. Meredith entered them in the contest and, after voting by the public, they were selected as one of the four final couples. Well - lo and behold, they won the contest and will be going to France, with all expenses paid. There will be an extensive article about them in the April issue of the magazine, which should be fun to read. The voters and the magazine loved the story of their lives since they met, their outdoor activities and worldwide travels together. Good things do happen to good people.

Chamber's holiday social

Saturday evening, the Northern Mono Chamber of Commerce held a successful holiday social and dinner, with a traditional menu, raffles and the debut performance of the Walker River Color Guard. This group consists of 11 girls and boys from the elementary school and is the project of Karla Smith from the Walker Country Store. The group has just recently been formed, but they were really enjoyed by all present. We are looking forward to their next performance.

This and that

n When my stepson, Mike, Jr., visited us a couple of months ago for my husband's birthday, he brought a really cute, relatively small, remote-controlled helicopter. He had it flying around our living room, even upside down. I was fascinated with it and really wanted to try to fly it, but knew I would crash and destroy it. He mentioned that there is a large model that can handle stronger winds and outdoor conditions. Since his birthday is Thursday, we decided to surprise him with the larger one as his combination gift. I was impressed with what all it can do, and I can hardly wait for a report after he opens it and tries it out. The toys they come up with for adults are truly amazing (and not cheap).

n Well, as the community activities have wound down, so have I. I'm ready to get on with the holiday and enjoy it all. From our house to yours, we wish the safest and happiest of holidays for everyone.

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