Your reporter was unable to visit the Fair and see our 4-H’ers in action, however, one of our readers sent me some E-mail photos of the heifers being shown by Jennifer Schaefle, Gracie Azevedo and Justin Azevedo. The smiles on our 4-H’ers faces really brightened my day and made up for not being able to attend the event myself. The smiles just radiated as the threesome displayed their animals for the Judges. Gracie was the recipient of 2nd place overall showmanship and Justin received 5th place in overall showmanship. Jennifer received a 5th place award in dairy cattle showmanship. Thank you so much for sharing the photos with your reporter.
How nice to share the news that Heidi Schaefle was awarded a 2nd place in sheep novice showmanship. Congratulations, Heidi!
Cody Bartholomew came away with several ribbons for his Fair entries. Cody showed his chickens and duck and received 3 first place ribbons, 1 second place and for his Pencil Neck Runner Duck, he received best of variety (hen). Cody also showed his meat goat, Tracker, at the Fair and was awarded 2nd in his class and placed 5th in True Novice Showmanship. Wow, way to go, Cody!
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The following information arrived too late to include in last week’s column. Oakdale High School students Colton Farquer and Katelin New qualified for the National High School Rodeo finals held in Wyoming. Colton qualified in the Tie Down Roping and was in the top five in his district and also the top forty in the State competition. Katelin did quite well also, she was crowned Miss High School Rodeo in her district and was also crowned Miss California High School rodeo Queen. Kate and Colton went to the National High School Rodeo Finals representing California. Congratulations to both young people on your winning efforts, Valley Home is proud of you!
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Another great piece of news coming from the fair is that the Valley Home 4H’ers were given a first place award for cleanest barn in meat animals section. This is another example that is shown by the hard work the members perform and the pride our 4H members have in their organization.
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Bonny Bianchi sends the following information requesting anyone of the Oakdale High School Class of 1950 who might be interested in joining the Lunch Bunch on August 17 for fun and reminiscing! The festivities will be held at Perko’s Restaurant in Manteca at 11:30 a.m. For more information on the event, give Bonnie a call at 847-1634.
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The November 8, 2011 Consolidated District Election is fast approaching and the candidate nomination period for applicants to the Valley Home Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) will be over soon. Those interested in filing their nomination papers must do so directly with the Stanislaus County Registrar of Voters office located at 1021 “I” St. in downtown Modesto. A Candidate Guide has been prepared to assist candidates in the process of running for elected office. The guide is available free of charge to individuals who are interested in running for election or reelection in the upcoming election. Contact the Office of Registrar Voters, 209-525-5200.
The candidate nomination period is now open and ends Friday, August 12, 2011. If an eligible incumbent fails to file during the regulation nomination period, there will be an extension for that specific seat. That extension begins Monday, August 13, 2011 and ends Wednesday, August 17, 2011.  There are 2 or 3 vacancies on the commission this year. All residents should think of how they can assist their community of Valley Home by being a member of the Valley Home MAC. Act now and file your papers for election.
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Happy Anniversary Wishes go out to Kelly & Jessica Rinna and Happy Birthday Wishes go out to Jim Lutz, Brandi Oliver and Bill Watson from all your Valley Home Friends.