Coyote crazy in Johnson Lane

MINDEN, Nev.

If you live in the Johnson Lane area, I don't even have to tell you how loud the coyotes have been the last few nights. Is it because of the full moon or that there is a lot of food here for them? Why would they come down out of the Pine Nut Mountains to feast on our chickens, cats, ducks and small dogs? I don't know the answer but they have been very present the last few mornings around 4 a.m.

I thought on Friday night they were in my backyard right by my bedroom window, they were making such a ruckus. It is amazing to see seven or eight together in a field in the early morning hours. When they start yipping like they got a neighbor's chicken, wow.

They are beautiful animals especially the golden one I saw last week crossing the road. Can you imagine if you were a wild animal (or dog) and had to find food for yourself? My dogs are spoiled rotten with the food dumped in the food bowl every morning. What if they were out in the wild, here in our climate? If you factor in the weather it must be a tough existence.

Right now I can say with certainty I am feeling sorry for the coyotes.

Pinon Hills

Elementary School

Yeah! The 11th annual geography bee winners are Riley Hollis, first place; Joey Bottino, second place and Dominique Groffman, third place. Other children who participated are Jack Hays, Riley Wilkinson, Zane Roberts, Lely Ginocchio, Anne Thurston and Kealy Moss. Riley Wilkinson actually took a written test to try and qualify for the state geography bee and is waiting to hear how that went.

The 11th annual spelling bee winners were Alexis VonSchottenstein, first place; Nicole Anderson, second place and Kacey Coleman, third place. There were more children who participated: Brianna Koskin, Cale Kynett, Jewel Verano, Dominique Groffman and Ariah Barth. Go Pinon Hills Mustangs!

Dates to remember: There is no school on Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 16 and Feb. 17. Picture day is Friday, Feb. 20.

Remember the word "budget?" The school district is having a special meeting at Douglas High School about the budget 5 p.m. today in the media center. All members of the community are welcome to attend.

Personal note: Happy birthday sister Christy " 29 again. We love you!

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