By Katy Sweeny
Chico Enterprise-Record
CHICO, Calif. — For years, the owner of Scotty’s Landing has helped area fire departments raise money and save lives.
Now those same firefighters are helping John Scott keep open his river access they use to rescue tubers, boaters and others caught on the Sacramento River west of Chico.
Hamilton City fire crews are putting on a fundraiser for Scott called the Rescue Tradition River Walk Wine & Brew Festival April 29 at Scotty’s.
“We want to save the river access because if the property goes away, boom, it’s going to cripple a lot of the rescue operations we do,” said Deputy Chief Hank Irick of Hamilton City fire.
Scott’s brother, Gary, died in 2009 leaving behind about $36,000 of credit debt and $86,000 owed on the land next door to the business, Scott said. The indebted land controls the well, septic tank and the river access public safety agencies use to load ambulances, land helicopters and board boats to make rescues. Scott has until a July 12 court appearance to settle his brother’s debt.
Irick thinks the best place for safety workers to access the river is Scotty’s, so he will do what it takes to help, he said.
Scott said he feels overwhelmed by the generosity.
“It’s amazing that so many people have come forward to help out and save our tradition out here of rescues,” Scott said.
The festival will include beer and wine tasting, food and live music. Tickets for the event 2-6 p.m. April 29 can be purchased at Scotty’s Landing, the Hamilton City Fire Department, Chico Sportsmen’s Den, KPAY Radio, Diamond W Western Wear and from any Hamilton City volunteer firefighter.
In advance the tickets cost $30 each; at the door they are $40.
Scotty’s Landing is located at 12609 River Road west of Chico. To make a donation, people can go to www.paypal.com and enter the recipient address: scottyswaterfrontgardens@aol.com
Copyright 2012 Chico Enterprise-Record