Ione – Developers of the Ione-area Rancho Arroyo Seco have pledged to match the money gathered in a computer lab fund drive that aims to gather $20,000 for a new computer lab at Ione Elementary School. The city of Ione reported that Rancho Arroyo Seco will match dollar-for-dollar the funds raised in the Ione Elementary School’s “Bulldog Byte Bash” set for October 23rd. Organizers said: “The goal is to raise $20,000 to build a state-of-the art computer lab that will accommodate up to 32 stations.” The city newsletter announced the Bash, and said to meet the “goal will require businesses, organizations and the community to support the effort.” The city newsletter said: “Rancho Arroyo Seco will once again match all donations dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000.” Rancho Arroyo Seco is owned by Amador Ranch Associates, a partnership led by John Telischak of Corte Madera and Bill Bunce of El Dorado Hills. Sharon Long said the Rancho for the last 2 years has matched funds in a fundraiser for the Ione Fire Department, raising $20,000 each year. 2 years ago, she said the IFD was able to replace all of their wildland gear. And last year, Ione Fire was able to leverage the $20,000 into $40,000, through a grant, and replace all of the department’s structure equipment, used in fighting structural fires. Long said the all-volunteer Ione Fire Department, with close to 40 personnel, was able to replace “very, very worn equipment.” This year, they will stage the fundraiser, with Rancho Arroyo Seco’s match, to benefit Ione Elementary. Rancho Arryo Seco will also sponsor the “Bulldog Byte Bash” from 5:30 until about 9:30 p.m. Friday, October 23 in the Big Red Barn at the Ranch on Highway 104. The family Bash “will feature many activities for kids including a ‘spook alley,’ bounce house, cotton candy, games, s’mores and more.” Tickets are on sale at Ione elementary, Clark’s Corner and City Hall. The Bash includes a spaghetti dinner, silent auction and raffle with a Grand Prize Drawing of a $1,000 trip to Disneyland, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ione. Those not attending the Bulldog Byte Bash can send donations to “Computers for Kids,” Rancho Arroyo Seco, P.O. 1730, Ione, CA 95640. All funds donated will be dedicated to this project. For more information, contact Sharon Long at (209) 304-5118. Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.