Herger to miss Peach Tree charity event

Congressman Wally Herger won't be able to attend the golfing charity fundraiser today at Peach Tree Golf and County Club that's part of events marking the club's 50th anniversary, his spokesman said.

"He really wishes he could be there," Matt Lavoie said, citing congressional votes that he said Herger, R-Chico, must make in Washington, D.C. Herger's district includes Yuba, Sutter and Colusa counties.

Herger is honorary chairman for the event in Linda that seeks to raise more than $75,000.

"The intent behind the event is to raise money for military members and their families," Lavoie said.

Herger, in a message that's part of a Peach Tree brochure about the club's anniversary, noted that the Sept. 11 event is "on a day of remembrance that we will retain throughout our country's history."

Nate Pomeroy, general manager of Peach Tree, said the club has been aware of the possibility that Herger would be unable to attend today's event.

Pomeroy said Peach Tree, which is providing use of the course without charge today, has hosted many charity events.

Its members are part of a club "that does in fact give back to the community," Pomeroy said.

Peach Tree, which opened in 1959, will have its own member celebration Saturday marking a half-century with events that include golf, a band and dancing.

The club's Web site states that its "members only bash" will set the standard for such parties — "at least until our 100th anniversary."