Valley Home residents were saddened to receive word that long time resident of our community, John De Boer passed away on April 13, 2012. John was very active in our community and farm organizations and was the recipient of many awards for his services. He had a long time involvement with the Farm Bureau. One of the most notable accomplishments while he was on the board was helping to write the Williamson Act. When one wishes to put their land under the Williamson Act, they sign a contract that requires them to keep their land in farming, ensuring that the land will not be developed into subdivisions or used for other purposes. In addition to his work as a member of the Farm Bureau, John was the recipient of a distinguished service award from the state of California.

John bought a ranch in Valley Home in 1970. He had always liked working with livestock and decided that our area was the place to do all that he wanted to do. John was well known for helping out in various organizations such as Oakdale FFA and 4-H, his main concern was to the younger generation interested in agriculture.

He was the recipient of the Good Egg award, which was awarded by the Farm Bureau and poultry industry in recognition of all the work he had done for the community. Among many other organizations in which John served, were the Stanislaus County Fair Board and Valley Home Fire District Commissioner and Camp Sylvester 4-H development.
Several years ago John lost his eyesight, however, not even this hindered his strong involvement in the community.

Although unable to see the slides and other material presented at the FFA and 4-H meetings, he continued to participate, even to donating a $500 scholarship each year to a well deserving senior planning to attend college.

Our deepest sympathy to his stepson, Frank Kelly and family members, we all deeply share in the lost of are longtime friend!
*****
Ashley Barreto with the Valley Home 4-H reports that The Friends and Families of Valley Home 4-H fundraiser on Saturday, April 21st at Tractor supply was a great success. Ashley says Thank You to everyone who made this possible.

We raised over $1,000 for Jason Zenker to help out with his medical treatments. There were a lot of 4-H families and friends who worked throughout the day. I would also like to thank the people from our community that brought their cars to be washed, bought goodies and made donations. May God Bless All of You!
*****
Our community was saddened to hear of the passing of good friend and neighbor, Karen Bradford. We understand that Karen and her husband, Jimmy enjoyed many good times riding their Harley Davidson’s together. The couple also raised cattle on their Valley Home ranch. We will miss Karen and her smiles!
*****
Many of our 4-hers are gearing up for Lemonade Day, which will be held on May 19 throughout our County. More information on this event next week!
*****
The Carpenter family has returned from a fun trip to Disneyland! Tired, but happy, they were glad to be back home.
*****
Cooper Bartholomew is busy taking care of his new baby chicks that just hatched out. Cooper is especially excited because they hatched from hens he raised himself. Great job, Coop!
*****
Members of Oak Valley Art Society enjoyed a very successful Art Show held at the Escalon Library this past weekend. A large crowd of art lovers turned out for the show which also featured photo art in addition to works of Oil and Acrylic, Watercolor, three Dimensional, Youth, Mixed Media, Graphic and soft Pastels. One of the highlights of the show were two entries by our Valley Home youth member, Bryce McKenzie which were awarded 1st and 2nd Place ribbons.

Congratulations Bryce, we are all proud of you!
*****
Valley Home members of the Oakdale Garden Club were all on hand Saturday to help out at the Club’s fundraising sale of Dogwood trees held at Tractor Supply in Oakdale. It was a sell-out sale for the Club of pink and white blossoming trees as their continuing work in beautifying Oakdale’s homes and gardens, which began in 1908 as a section of the Oakdale Woman’s Club. Just one of the many Oakdale beautification projects that the Club has been involved in over the years.
*****
Enjoying birthday celebrations during this week are Richard Mullin, Karen and Kari Heiny, Cody Bartholomew and Mike Osmundson. Many Happy Returns of the Day to All!