Friday 7-31-09

In the Area News:
Fire ignited in Yosemite,
Attendance at fair plunges 30 percent,
Councilman rips press, then runs,
Sierra Conservation Center Joins Knight Fire
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Out on Ben Hur Road someone tied up a few stray dogs.
An assault and battery was reported on Country Lane.
A resident on Hirsch Road reported possible fraud.
Down at Briceburg a family dispute was taking place.
Identity theft was reported from Coachman Road.
Over on McNally Road someone was reported as shooting unsafely during the evening hours.
Three of those 'Skateboarders' were reported at the Gold Coin...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Another Gorgeous Day:
Friday's Forecast
91-101 Today: Under sunny skies with some clouds floating by, the high temps will be inline with Thursday's high temps, rising possibly a degree or two. Overnight lows are running inline with yesterday's lows.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. HIGHS 88 TO 98 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...66 TO 76 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. LOWS 48 TO 58 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...39 TO 49 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
California's default rate soars to 9.5%
About 1 in 10 Californians with a home loan is now in default, and there's growing evidence that the mortgage meltdown is spreading to commercial real estate. ..
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Need a higher return on your cash?
CD Investment Rates Results : Bankrate.com
Or
(If you are a California resident these debt instruments are tax free)
Kathleen Pender - Net Worth Plus : Question of the day: How can I buy California debt?

California Economy
Fed survey: Stabilization seen in some regions
Four Fed regions — San Francisco, New York, Cleveland and Kansas City — pointed to "signs of stabilization," the Fed survey said. Two regions — Chicago and St. Louis — reported that the pace of economic decline appeared to be "moderating."
San Jose Mercury News

United States Economy
Disney Q3 Profit Falls 26%
Third quarter revenue from parks and resorts fell 9% to $2.8 billion, while segment operating income slid 19% to $521 million due to lower income from the Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Vacation Club and Disneyland Paris.
Disney Q3 Profit Falls 26%
AND
Nintendo Profits Tumble
The Japanese company said Wii sales for the quarter ended June 30 fell by more than half to 2.23 million units from 5.17 million units in the same period a year ago. Sales in the United States fell by nearly two-thirds to 880,000 consoles and more than half in Japan to 21,000 units.
InformationWeek

Thursday 7-30-09

In the Area News:
Climate impacting big trees in Yosemite, scientists say,
CAL Fire To Join Forces With U.S. Forest Service,
Post office closure eyed
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
One reported accident in the county yesterday and that accident occurred on Mormon Bar Road near Old Highway where a garbage truck hit several wires that were laying on the roadway during the morning commute hours.
Out on Chowchilla Mountain Road some jerk dumped their junk.
(Public Works say they are working on a plan to curtail this activity as
it is increasing in the county.)
During the evening hours a verbal dispute on South Highway 49 led to an individual not Passing Go and going straight to jail...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Another Gorgeous Day:
Thursday's Forecast: Cooler Today
90-100 Today: Under sunny skies with some clouds floating by, the high temps will be cooler today by two to three degrees over the area as the high temps are back in the normal range for this time of year. Overnight lows are running two to three degrees below yesterday's lows.
Yosemite: MOSTLY SUNNY. ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. HIGHS 87 TO 97 IN
 YOSEMITE VALLEY...65 TO 75 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING...THEN MOSTLY CLEAR AFTER MIDNIGHT. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. LOWS 49 TO 59 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...41 TO 51 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Home Prices End Their Three-Year Plunge
The release of the surprisingly strong Case-Shiller Price Index, compiled by Standard & Poor’s, followed earlier reports that sales of existing homes rose last month for the third consecutive time, while sales of new homes rose in June by the largest percentage in eight years...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

CalPERS
Real Estate Losses Lead To Historic Value Declines for CalPERS, CalSTRS -
The worst performer for CalPERS was real estate, which was down by 35. 8%. CalSTRS' real estate loss was worse -- down 43%. The real estate returns for both funds reflect market values through March 31 not June 30, pending appraisals.
CoStar Group

California Vehicle Theft Decreases
Joe Farrow, Commissioner California Highway Patrol
Anyone who has had their car stolen can attest to the hardship that results.  In addition to the feeling of being victimized and dealing with reporting the crime to police and your insurance company, your mode of transportation is now gone and you suddenly have no way to get around.  Your daily routine is disrupted.  You now have to shoulder the extra expense and inconvenience of buying or borrowing another car or make other arrangements to go to work, drive the children to school or go to the grocery store or to any number of appointments. Fortunately, due to the combined efforts of state, county and local law enforcement agencies, the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the insurance industry, and the public, the above scenario happened less often last year. 
I am pleased to share some good news for automobile owners throughout California - vehicle theft decreased 12.2 percent in 2008.  The decline wasn’t just in a handful of counties, but in the majority of counties statewide.  What’s more, the double digit decrease is the largest in more than 10 years.
Even with the decrease, the economic loss to Californians due to vehicle theft continues to exceed $1 billion.  But, of the 199,766 vehicles reported stolen last year, 86.8 percent were recovered.
I applaud the efforts of law enforcement officers statewide and the members of task forces that have played a big role in last year’s reduction in vehicle theft.  Technological advances, such as Bait Cars and License Plate Recognition Devices, have helped to identify and locate stolen vehicles and catch thieves.  Prosecutors statewide have also been instrumental in trying car thieves.
Law enforcement cannot do it alone; the public is to be commended for their efforts in discouraging vehicle theft. Continue deterring thieves by parking in secure or highly visible locations, locking vehicle doors, using alarm systems and not leaving cars running, unattended.  Report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
By remaining vigilant, you increase the odds of not becoming a victim.

California Economy
California seeks sponsors for state parks 
State parks officials and nonprofit organizations scrambled Wednesday to find funding and possibly new corporate sponsors to keep as many as 100 parks and beaches open after Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger slashed an additional $6.2 million out of the state parks system.
Los Angeles Times

Wednesday 7-29-09

Sultry Summer Shindig
Happening Saturday, August 1st
The Coulterville Park will be rockin' on Saturday, Aug 1st from 11 am ‘til 8 pm with 4 great local bands and the Show Your Chrome_sm car and motorcycle show. Classic and antique cars, hot rods and customized bikes ….
Mariposa News - Sultry Summer Shindig

Don Weston Seriously Injured
One of Mariposa’s favorite citizens, Don Weston, was seriously injured Sunday morning when a deer ran in front of his motorcycle just south of Coulterville. Don was treated at the scene by his beloved firemen and emergency personnel and air lifted to Memorial Hospital Trauma Center in Modesto where he is currently under intensive care. We are keeping a close watch on Don and will report his progress.

In the Area News:
Moratorium on gold dredging permits in California ,
Calaveras sees new case of swine flu,
New senior center in Murphys offers meals, classes
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
The caller from Madison Street in Coulterville was having some sort of problems with a bat.
During the Midnight hour suspicious circumstances were reported on
Spring Creek Drive.
A resident on Schoolhouse Road reported a scam.
During the afternoon hours grand theft was reported from Bear Trap Road.
Vandalism was reported from Darrah Road and then three hours later another report about vandalism on Darrah Road was called in.
Someone on Paloma Court was being threatened.
Petty theft was reported from Jones Street...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Another Gorgeous Day:
Wednesday's Forecast: Cooler Today
91-101 Today: Under sunny skies with some clouds floating by, the high temps will be cooler today by 5+ degrees over the area
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
June new home sales rise 11 percent
WASHINGTON -- New U.S. home sales rose by the largest amount in more than eight years last month, in another sign the housing market is finally bouncing back from the worst downturn in decades..
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California Economy
Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Budget to Solve $24 Billion Deficit
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a $24 billion budget solution that includes $16.1 billion in spending reductions. Over the past five months, the Governor has consistently led the difficult task of solving a combined $60 billion budget deficit - roughly a third of our entire state budget over the 2008-09 and 2009-10 fiscal years.
State Parks
The $14.2 million reduction to the Department of Parks and Recreation reflects an expenditure reduction to the state park system. This reduction will achieve $22.2 million in savings when fully implemented. It will result in the closure of probably more than 100 parks which will be identified once the Department has been able to complete a full assessment of its remaining resources and be in a position to determine where it will need to shut facilities down.
Suspend Williamson Act Program
The budget amendments reflect only $1,000 for the Williamson Act Open Space program, effectively suspending the program. These monies partially backfill property tax revenues that local governments forego when they enter into voluntary contracts with property owners who agree to use their land for agricultural or open space purposes in exchange for a lower property tax assessment.
Suspend Proposition 1A
The budget amendments include $1.9 billion in property tax monies borrowed from cities, counties, and special districts pursuant to Proposition 1A (2004).
Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Budget to Solve $24 Billion Deficit
AND
The Budget
09 (.pdf, <1 MB)
AND
Vulnerable Children Suffer Under Final Budget Package - Counties Left to Deal with Devastating Cuts to Critical Social Services Programs
July 28 - California counties are outraged over the Governor's line-item vetoes today that targeted vulnerable Californians - especially children and seniors - by substantially cutting vital programs that ensure their health and safety and leaving California counties holding the bag.
More on the Budget from CSAC
(.PDF File)
AND
Read CSAC's July 28 Budget Action Bulletin on Governor's Vetoes by clicking
here  (.PDF File)

United States Economy
U.S. Economy: Home Prices Rise, Confidence Declines
A gauge of U.S. house prices posted its first monthly gain in three years, providing some solace to consumers shaken by rising joblessness.
The Conference Board’s confidence index dropped to 46.6, a second consecutive decline, following a reading of 49.3 in June, the New York-based research group said. The figure reached a record low of 25.3 in February.
Bloomberg.com
AND
Bank Failures by the Numbers
Studies of US banks show they have been charging off soured commercial mortgages at the fastest pace in nearly 20 years. The losses, if kept up at the same rate, could reach $30 billion by year's end. Losses by regional banks on their commercial real-estate loans will be among the most watched details, as thousands of banks report second-quarter results over the next two weeks. Many of the most troubled banks have heavy exposure to commercial real estate.
Bank Failures by the Numbers

Tuesday 7-28-09

United States Economy
Almost $165 Billion in Commercial Loans Due in ‘09
The value of hotel properties in default or foreclosure almost doubled to $17.3 billion in the second quarter through June 24 from $9 billion at the end of the first quarter, data compiled by New York-based Real Capital show.
Bloomberg.com
AND
(Business and Consumers keep what little powder they have dry)
Canon Profit Tumbles 86%, Company Cuts Sales Forecast
Income at the business machines division, accounting for 80 percent of overall operating profit last year, declined 61 percent to 55 billion yen. Profit at the camera operations, Canon’s second-biggest division, dropped 42 percent to 38.8 billion yen.
Bloomberg.com

Monday 7-27-09

United States Economy
Surging Profit Estimates Signal 26% Rally for S&P 500
Housing starts unexpectedly rose in June as construction of single-family dwellings jumped the most since 2004, while industrial production shrank less than forecast, reports from the Commerce Department and Federal Reserve in Washington showed. Smaller job losses also helped lift the Conference Board’s index of leading economic indicators to a third monthly advance, the longest streak in five years.  
Bloomberg.com
(The Roller Coaster of Opinions Continues)
Call for Rapid Recovery Is Bubble All Its Own: William Pesek
...The need to retool economies away from exports toward domestic demand has never been greater. The Dow Jones Industrial Average being above 9,000 doesn’t alter the basic calculus. Confidence among U.S. consumers fell in July for the first time in five months as mounting unemployment and stagnant wages shook households. That’s what matters to Asia, not buoyant stocks.
Bloomberg.com

Sunday 7-26-09

Sunday Special SlideShow:
Sierra Vista Scenic Vista Byway By Linda Gast
The Sierra Vista Scenic Byway is not for the faint of heart. Parts of the road are unpaved and are in poor condition.  A four wheel drive vehicle is not a necessity, but it does help. It is closed in winter and would be a difficult drive in wet weather.
Sierra Sun Times - Sierra Vista Scenic Vista Byway By Linda Gast

Home Burns in Lushmeadows Fire
The fire call came in during the noon hour about a fire in Lushmeadows on Glacier Point Road near Meadow Lane. When firefighters arrived smoke was emanating  from inside the house. The home owners were not at home when the fire started...
Mariposa News -  Home Burns in Lushmeadows Fire 7/25/2009

Mariposa County Health Department Flu Information
July Newsletter
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Health Department Flu Information

Plan Your Weekend
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
Yosemite: KC museum reviews missing plane crash artifacts,
Tuolumne CAO Has Mixed Reaction To State Budget,
College campus close to reality in Calaveras
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
No reported accidents in the county yesterday.
During the later morning hours a dog was locked inside a truck at the Miners Inn.
Someone on Stroming Road reported a lost 'Old Black' dog.
On Bullion Street a dead cat was on the road.
During the evening hours someone who was creating a physical disturbance at the Lake McClure Campgrounds was lucky enough to get arrested and spend the night at the county lock-up...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Check on your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
95-105 Today: Under sunny skies the high temps will be warmer today by three to four degrees. Overnight lows are running three to four degrees warmer than yesterday's low temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING THEN BECOMING MOSTLY SUNNY. HIGHS 91 TO 100 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...71 TO 81 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLEAR. LOWS 50 TO 60 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...43 TO 53 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Robert B. Jacobs
The homeowner had listed the home, found a buyer, and had presented the offer with a request that the lender agree to this short sale, at a loss. But in this situation, the lender would agree only if the buyer signed a promissory note for a very significant amount — leaving foreclosure the only option.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Protecting Local Revenue is Top Priority of Summit Delegates
Hundreds of local government officials gathered in Sacramento July 17 and 18 to tackle key solutions for restoring efficiency, transparency and accountability in state government. The 545 local government officials present represented California's nearly 8,000 city, county and school elected officials. The two-day summit, Rebuilding California from the Ground Up, was the launch of a major local government effort to develop reform measures and strategies that provide greater autonomy, flexibility and fiscal tools to local governments.
League of California Cities

California Economy
Budget deal puts state in hole for next year
The budget deal Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to sign Tuesday relies on roughly $8 billion in accounting maneuvers and questionable new revenue that experts say will result in what the governor vowed never to do: kick the problem down the road.
Budget deal puts state in hole for next year

United States Economy
Regional banks face a big commercial real estate problem
"The problems facing commercial real estate are severe and will likely take many years to resolve," Deutsche Bank analyst Richard Parkus told the Joint Economic Committee of Congress this month. He said the biggest losses are likely to come from banks' $550 billion of construction loans, such as loans to homebuilders.
Regional banks face a big commercial real estate problem
AND
Sales Fail to Keep Pace With Profits as Economy Stays Sluggish
“Expectations of corporate earnings will have to be downgraded again,” Nouriel Roubini, the New York University economist who predicted the credit crisis, said in a July 23 research note. “Demand will be weak, most prices will be falling, and companies will therefore have little pricing power and their profit margins will remain squeezed. The expectation that in these conditions profits will rebound strongly is quite far-fetched.”
Bloomberg.com

Saturday 7-25-09
 

Today is the one year anniversary of the Telegraph Fire:
The Telegraph fire began on Friday afternoon July 25, 2008 as a smoke plume was observed coming out of the Merced River Canyon. What began as a small fire started by target shooting ended up being one of the worst fires in Mariposa County history.
To follow a time line along with photos of the fire, click the link and scroll down to Friday, July 25, 2008 and then scroll back up the page and into the month of August.
Sierra Sun Times - July 2008 Archives
Telegraph Fire Archives

Record Breaking Trout Caught at Merced Irrigations District’s Lake McSwain
Lake McSwain, Calif. (July 24, 2009) — Debbie Heiber from Modesto caught a 17 ½ pound, 34” Rainbow Trout, the largest trout ever caught out of Lake McSwain. 
Mariposa News - Record Breaking Trout Caught at Merced Irrigations District’s Lake McSwain

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting 7-21-09- Preparing for the 2009-2010 Budget
Mariposa County CAO Rick Benson tried to put the best spin he could on the upcoming budget as the tabulations keep increasing from being down $1,000,000 last Friday to Tuesday’s revelation that now the budget is off $1,500,000.
SIERRA SUN TIMES

Monterey County Crop Report Higher in 2008 over 2007 but not by very much
Monterey County Crop Report for 2008

Plan Your Weekend
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
Telegraph Fire One Year Anniversary ,
Tour of farms shows variety in Tuolumne,
Fire Burns In Stanislaus National Forest
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Also during the later morning hours suspicious circumstances were observed on Smith Road.
Out on Country Lane a verbal dispute was taking place in the afternoon hours.
Vandalism was reported on Ganns Corral Road.
Petty theft was reported from Main Street in Coulterville during the evening hours.
During the late evening hours a disturbing party was happening out on Terrace View Lane...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Check on your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
92-102 Today: 
Under sunny skies the high temps will be inline with Friday's high temps, possibly up to two degrees cooler.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING THEN BECOMING MOSTLY SUNNY. HIGHS 89 TO 98 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...70 TO 80 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. LOWS 55 TO 65 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...42 TO 52 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Mortgage relief efforts are criticized
Reporting from Washington -- Federal programs aimed at modifying loans to stem foreclosures aren't working, witnesses told a Senate Judiciary subcommittee, and some lawmakers called on Congress again to pass a bill allowing bankruptcy judges to modify home loans -- a procedure known as mortgage cram-downs.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Senator Cogdill Urges Lawmakers to Adopt Reforms to Prevent Future Budget Shortfalls
“With a historic deficit that only continues to worsen, few palatable options are left on the table. I understand the need for an urgent budget solution and this legislation takes a number of steps in the right direction, such as maximizing surplus properties and implementing oversight protections to reduce fraud in the In-Home Supportive Services program. Unfortunately, I could not support this package in its entirety because of the negative impacts it will place on the communities..."
Mariposa News - Senator Cogdill Urges Lawmakers to Adopt Reforms to Prevent Future Budget Shortfalls

California Governor Schwarzenegger - The Budget Solution: Solving the Entire Problem
This budget solution includes $15.9 billion in spending reductions, which on top of the $15 billion made in February amounts to approximately $30 billion dollars - roughly a third of our entire state budget. While there are some one-time solutions in the budget agreement, the Governor fought to minimize those one-time moves, and also to stave off the alternative of higher taxes. There are no tax increases in this budget agreement. Below is the math of how the Governor and legislative leaders agreed to solve the $24.1 billion deficit.
Mariposa News - California Governor Schwarzenegger - The Budget Solution: Solving the Entire Problem

California Economy
(Looking into the Future)
California's Fix Won't Last Long
Bond Buyer Article

United States Economy
Commercial mortgage delinquency up 585%
Delinquencies on commercial mortgage-backed securities soared $10 billion in June, hitting a 12-month high of almost $29 billion, according to Realpoint Research.
California led the nation with the highest amount of delinquent loans, closely followed by Texas and Florida.
Denver Business Journal
AND
U.S. Economy: Consumer Sentiment Falls on Job Concern
Confidence among U.S. consumers fell in July for the first time in five months as mounting unemployment and stagnant wages shook households.
The biggest employment slump of any recession in the last eight decades is making Americans less secure, which is likely to restrain spending and lift savings
Bloomberg.com

Friday 7-24-09

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting 7-21-09- Preparing for the 2009-2010 Budget
Mariposa County CAO Rick Benson tried to put the best spin he could on the upcoming budget as the tabulations keep increasing from being down $1,000,000 last Friday to Tuesday’s revelation that now the budget is off $1,500,000.
SIERRA SUN TIMES

Reminder: Today:
Planning Commission Meeting at 9:00 A.M.
Mariposa News - Mariposa Public Notices

Leroy Radanovich's
Mariposa Life:
Interesting that members of our Congressional delegation voted over
whelming to not join whatever new health care system that they are creating for us but keep the luxurious system that they now have for themselves as a benefit of being elected. It is not at all difficult to understand their attitude because to the victors belong the spoils, etc.
Health Care and Congress

Plan Your Weekend
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

Yosemite National Park Celebrates Arrival of Hybrid Tractors Used in Yosemite Valley Floor Tours
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in Yosemite Valley to commemorate the arrival of four hybrid (electric/diesel) tractors that will be used in the popular Yosemite Valley Floor Tours. Acting Superintendent Dave Uberuaga and DNC Parks and Resorts at Yosemite, Inc. Chief   Operating Officer Dan Jensen cut the ribbon as 60 park visitors were embarking on their tour of Yosemite Valley.
Mariposa News - Yosemite National Park Celebrates Arrival of Hybrid Tractors Used in Yosemite Valley Floor Tours

More Comments:
Coulterville Community Club Meeting and the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce | SIERRA SUN TIMES

From the Email Bin
Thanks to Bill S.
Yosemite History Link:
National Park Service: Presenting Nature
Thanks to Tom O.
For this Link:
L.A. fire chief says budget cuts will mean longer response times | L.A. Now | Los Angeles Times

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-28-09
CA-8 Approve the Use of $22,000 of Proposition 40 Funds from the Remaining Balance Originally Allotted for the Amphitheater Lighting to bring the Mariposa History Center’s Entrance and Sanitary Facilities into American Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance (Public Works Director)
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-28-09

Editorial
Emails and Perpetuating Lies and Half Truths
How many Emails do you get a week? How many Emails do you get a week that perpetuates Lies and Half Truths?
Probably quite a few. The newest one we received yesterday which is actually an older one but must have been new to the sender was about 9/11 and a store in California where the Budweiser driver went into the store and the owners/workers were happy about 9/11. Well, the story goes on about how the driver pulled all the products and then got Pepsi to do the same thing.
All False.
Check Snopes before perpetuating all the hate. 

In the Area News:
Visitors Bureau pushes hotel tax hike,
Mark Twain St. Joseph's Hospital Captures National Award,
Bites reminders to use caution in rattler territory
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
A vehicle was burglarized on Converse Road.
During the afternoon hours suspicious circumstances were observed on Hirsch Road and during the evening hours in Fish Camp.
Attempted fraud was reported from Schoolhouse Road.
A resident on Meadow Lane heard someone shooting.
On Darrah Road some jerk dumped their junk...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Check on your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Friday's Forecast
94-104 Today: Under sunny skies the high temps will be inline with Thursday's high temps within a degree or two. Overnight lows are running a couple of degrees cooler than yesterday's low temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY SUNNY WITH A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 95 TO 102 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...75 TO 85 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. LOWS 58 TO 68 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...41 TO 51 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
June existing home sales rise by 3.6 percent
The National Association of Realtors said Thursday that home sales rose 3.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.89 million last month, from a downwardly revised pace of 4.72 million in May. Home sales haven't risen for three straight months since early 2004, during the housing boom.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

CalPERS
Calpers Hopes Riskier Bets Will Restore Its Health
...Mr. Dear wants to embrace some potentially high-risk investments in hopes of higher returns. He aims to pour billions more into beaten-down private equity and hedge funds. Junk bonds and California real estate also ride high on his list. And then there are timber, commodities and infrastructure.
Calpers has a lot riding on Mr. Dear’s effort to achieve above-market performance. The fund just posted a loss of 23 percent, the worst in its history. That leaves it 66 percent funded, the lowest level in two decades, meaning it has only $66 on hand for every $100 in benefits promised to 1.6 million California public employees and their families.
NYTimes.com

Thursday 7-23-09

Yosemite Gifts is back in Business
The red tag was removed.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK:
Rangers Deal With Two Multiple Injury Accidents Within Five Days
 Mather District rangers dealt with two serious accidents that injured a total of 15 people this past week. On July 15th, the driver of a passenger van carrying eight people fell asleep on the Tioga Road east of Yosemite Creek.
Mariposa News - YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Rangers Deal With Two Multiple Injury Accidents Within Five Days

From the Email Bin
(Thanks for the information)
From Bill S. about the link to the article yesterday on the plane crash:
the plane was found approx 1 mile east of Buena Vista Peak and 200 feet
below the crest just south of Mt. Bruce.
There is a small plaque on a rock and bits of metal can still be found.
AND
from Forrest W. :
If you can locate a copy of the book, As We Were Told, published by the Coarsegold Historical Society, ISBN 0-9626377-7-7; on page 101 you will find a short account of the first official party to reach the crash site.
Missed the article yesterday?
Here is the link:
Yosemite
Blown off course, the DC-2 with nine souls aboard smashed into a snowy mountain in Yosemite National Park, just a couple of hundred feet from the crest.
Drama of 1938 TWA crash echoes anew as museum in KC reviews artifacts - Kansas City Star

Mariposa County Health Department  Public Health Notes –Preventing Heat Related Illness
The body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature, adjusting for the temperature outside, is not as good among the elderly and infants as in the rest of us. Therefore, when outside temperatures exceed 100 degrees, the elderly (particularly those with chronic illness) truly do have an increased risk of illness and even, in rare cases, death from the heat.
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Health Department

As the Merced River Plan undergoes it's third revision:
Court Rules For National Park Service On Colorado River Management Plan
A coalition of four wilderness advocacy groups (River Runners for Wilderness; Rock the Earth; Wilderness Watch and Living Rivers) brought suit against the National Park Service in March 2006, under the Administrative Procedures Act, challenging the park’s 2006 Colorado River Management Plan (CRMP), which among other things, permits the continued use of motorized rafts and support equipment on the Colorado River within Grand Canyon National Park. 
Mariposa News - Court Rules For National Park Service On Colorado River Management Plan

Alex McInturff ,who walked from the Bay to Yosemite a few weeks ago, as he traced John Muir's footsteps
In Muir’s Footsteps

In the Area News:
California to lose grants aimed at combating drugs,
Calaveras libraries feel budget pinch,
Exploring the charm of the Sierra towns
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Out on Usona Road an Orange Tabby was reported lost.
An assault and battery was reported from Hospital Road.
On Circle Drive petty theft was reported.
During the later afternoon hours, suspicious circumstances were observed on Mariposa Creek Circle.
On 49 North near Mount Bullion some of the Mariposa Bears were up a tree doing something or other...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Check on your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Thursday's Forecast
94-104 Today: Under sunny skies with clouds moving in over the Sierra, today's high temps will be within two to three degrees warmer, depending on cloud cover, of Wednesday's high temps. Overnight lows are running four to five degrees warmer than yesterday's low temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 95 TO 102 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...75 TO 85 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING...THEN PARTLY CLOUDY AFTER MIDNIGHT. LOWS 51 TO 61 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...44 TO 54 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Fannie & Freddie: The most expensive bailout
Since Congress essentially wrote a blank check to the Treasury Department in July 2008 to do what needed to be done to inject capital into the two firms, Fannie (FNM, Fortune 500) has received $34.2 billion of direct government support while Freddie (FRE, Fortune 500) has received $51.7 billion.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

CalPERS
SF pensions: Once a model, now cause for alarm
(An Effective Grand Jury)
The grand jury said public officials and unions negotiated “extraordinary” retirement benefits, an apparent conflict of interest because “everyone involved” is a member of the pension system.
The grand jury said the “staggering” pension and retiree health care costs are “like having a secondary police and fire department — one active member and one retired member.”
Calpensions

Garamendi Sole Vote Against Drastic Last Minute Student Fee Increases at CSU Trustees Meeting
LONG BEACH – With hundreds of students rallying outside the meeting room, the California State University trustees approved a new 20 percent student fee increase for the fall semester just weeks before classes are set to begin. Lieutenant Governor John Garamendi, a CSU trustee, cast the sole vote against the $791 fee increase, an increase that comes only two months after the CSU trustees already approved a $306, or 10 percent, student fee increase in May
California Chronicle

California Economy
Is Marijuana the Answer to California's Budget Woes?
While 13 states permit the limited sale of marijuana for medical use, and polls show a steady increase in the number of Americans who favor legalization, federal law still bans the cultivation, sale, or possession of marijuana. In fact, the feds still classify marijuana as a Schedule I drug, one that has no "currently accepted medical use" in the United States.
TIME

United States Economy
(This Speaks Volumes About Consumer Purchasing)
UPS 2Q Income Falls 49%, Sees 3Q Earnings Below Views
Chairman and Chief Executive Scott Davis provided a much-looked-for outlook on volume, saying declines in the domestic and international business appear to be stabilizing but volumes will likely remain "significantly" below last year's levels.
Article - WSJ.com

Wednesday 7-22-09

Mariposa County goes from 'doing alright' as they give $90,000 in Department Head raises a few weeks ago to a $1,500,000 hole in the 2009-2010 Preliminary Budget.
At the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors meeting yesterday that is what the County CAO, Rick Benson presented to the Supervisors as they begin the 2009-2010 budget negotiations.
How to get out of the hole?
Suggestions ranged from Lay-offs to Furloughs and other cost cutting measures.

Letter to the Editor - Thank You From Mariposa County Hi4H Club
I would like to Thank all of our great community for helping Mariposa Hi4h Club with their fundraisers. We strive to help the community and give back to others as we can. This year we had a Spring Bulb Sale, this sale went great and it is a recurring fundraiser for us, we also had a Excellent Taco Salad Pre Sale Fundraiser.
Mariposa News - Letter to the Editor  Thank You From Mariposa County Hi4H Club

Upcoming Mariposa Evening's
The Mariposa County Arts Council and their many fine sponsors are proud to present the next Cousin Jack’s Mariposa Evenings, featuring performances by: The Redding Bros. Band on Fri. July 31^st, and TurboEagle on Sat. Aug. 1^st.
Goldrushcam  Out And About In Mariposa County  A Monthly Listing Of Things To Do In Mariposa County

Christina Welch named as Stanislaus National Forest Deputy Supervisor
Sonora, Calif. (July 21, 2009)… Christina Welch, currently the Field Manager on the Central Oregon Resource Area of the Prineville District of the BLM in Oregon, will be the new Deputy Forest Supervisor of the Stanislaus National Forest in Sonora, U.S. Forest Service officials announced today.
Mariposa News - Christina Welch named as Stanislaus National Forest Deputy Supervisor

Fire Restrictions Go Into Effect in High Hazard Areas of the Stanislaus National Forest
Sonora, Calif., (July 21, 2009)…The Forest Service today announced that, because of high fire danger, effective Wednesday, July 22, 2009, a Forest Order enacting temporary fire restrictions will go into effect in High Hazard Areas of the Stanislaus National Forest (NF).
Mariposa News - Fire Restrictions Go Into Effect in High Hazard Areas of the Stanislaus National Forest

In the Area News:
Drama of 1938 TWA crash echoes anew as museum in KC reviews artifacts,
Murphys “Old Timers Museum” A Virtual Gold Mine of Mother Lode History!,
Angels Camp hits road for party
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
A loose bull was running around Yaqui Gulch Road.
During the very early morning hours a verbal dispute on East Whitlock Road resulted in an individual getting a free ride to the county lock-up.
A burglary was reported on Woodview Lane and at the Yosemite View Lodge.
Trespassing was reported from Darrah Road during the afternoon hours.
During the evening hours someone was having a party on Coakley Circle...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Check on your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Wednesday's Forecast
94-104 Today: Under sunny skies today's high temps will be within a degree or two of Tuesday's high temps. Overnight lows are running slightly cooler than yesterday's low temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY SUNNY WITH ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. HIGHS 92 TO 101 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...71 TO 81 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. LOWS 51 TO 61 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...43 TO 53 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Are Home Buyers Paying Too Much for Title Insurance?
The U.S. title-insurance industry faces increasing pressure from regulators to justify the fees charged to consumers for ensuring they have clear ownership of their homes.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

CalPERS
Calpers Lost 23.4% in 2008, Worst One-Year Decline
Declines totaled 28.5 percent on stocks, 35 percent on real estate and 31 percent on alternative investments, such as private equity and hedge funds, Calpers said. Bonds grew by 0.6 percent. The $118 billion California State Teachers’ Retirement System, the second-largest U.S. public pension, said today that the value of its investments fell 25 percent last year.
Bloomberg.com

California Economy
No recovery in California until 2011, forecast says
Unemployment in California and Los Angeles County will increase well into 2010, continuing to exceed the highest levels since at least the end of World War II, according to a local economist whose projections for the Southland economy are among the most negative to date.
Los Angeles Times

United States Economy
Obama’s Student-Loan Overhaul Passes House Committee
Obama and Miller seek to end a 16-year-old arrangement in which the Education Department runs competing college loan systems. The 43-year-old Federal Family Education Loan Program subsidizes and guarantees loans made by private lenders. A second program, created in 1993, enables the government to make loans directly to students.
Bloomberg.com

Tuesday 7-21-09

Reminder: Today:
Coming up at this Tuesday's Board of Supervisors Meeting the CAO, Rick Benson will present a Preliminary report to the Supervisors on the 2009-2010 budget.
Mr. Benson mentions there is a $1,000,000 gap in the proposed budget.
Here is part of his presentation.
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-21-09

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK-Rangers Rescue Climber Perched On Tiny Ledge
Park dispatch received a cell phone call from climber Daniel Susman around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15th, in which Susman reported that he’d become ledged-out while scrambling on a dome near Merced Lake and that he’d need assistance getting off the ledge. He said that he wasn’t in any immediate danger, but that he was unable to ascend or descend from his location.
Mariposa News - YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK-Rangers Rescue Climber Perched On Tiny Ledge

Reminder: Today:
Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce Business Mixer
Goldrushcam  Out And About In Mariposa County  A Monthly Listing Of Things To Do In Mariposa County

H1N1 Flu
(SF GATE)
Public health experts are gearing up for swine flu vaccinations this fall in what could be the largest mass-immunization campaign since the polio vaccine was introduced more than 50 years ago
Agencies to set up mass swine flu vaccinations

In the Area News:
Mapping America's giant trees,
Travel through Time: The History of Sonora Pass,
GE engineer worked on Apollo 11 program
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
It was one of those dog days in Mariposa County yesterday that seems to happen every once in awhile.
There were lost dogs, aggressive dogs, biting dogs, missing dogs and a dog that was messing around with some chickens.
Along with a stray cat report thrown in for good measure.
Mail theft was reported from Chowchilla Mountain Road...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Check on your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Tuesday's Forecast
95-105 Today: Sunny and cooler today by five plus degrees over most of the area as a cooling trough enters into the Central Valley. Possibly the cooling air may not reach up into the foothills today, but we should still be a few degrees cooler than yesterday. Overnight lows are still running right inline with yesterday's low temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY SUNNY WITH ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. HIGHS 90 TO 100 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...68 TO 78 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. ISOLATED SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. LOWS 53 TO 63 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...44 TO 54 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
New federal rules protecting applicants for home loans take effect July 30
Among other key changes, the new Federal Reserve regulations require lenders to provide you with initial disclosures of your estimated mortgage costs within three business days of your loan application. If you don't get them, you can pull the plug.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Governor Schwarzenegger Announces $27 Million in Savings from DGS Renegotiated Contracts
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced the Department of General Services (DGS) has saved the state $27 million on commercial leasing rates through a targeted effort to renegotiate the terms on 1,200 of the state’s commercial leases. DGS estimates that its efforts will eventually achieve $80 to $100 million in savings over the life of the leases.
Governor Schwarzenegger

CalPERS:
CalPERS Will Report Big Annual Decline
The California Public Employees' Retirement System is expected to report this week a decline of roughly 23% for its latest fiscal year, the worst return in decades for the largest public pension fund in the U.S. as it struggles with other problems.
WSJ.com
AND
California public employee union retirees - the new bourgeois?
A complete meltdown of budgets for the State of California and many Northern California Counties pits public employees and their lofty lifetime retirements against all other interests for policy makers. 
California public employee union retirees - the new bourgeois?

California Economy
Final Countdown - State Budget to Change the Face of California Counties for Many Years to Come - CSAC
There is not a shred of good news in the package for counties. Of all the increasingly catastrophic ideas the Legislature and Administration have thrown on the table over the last weeks and months, counties are "all in."  Over the weekend, Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg told the press "there is no question" that local governments are part of the budget solution.
Executive Director's Watch
(.PDF File)

United States Economy
Obama’s Ad Hoc Strategy to Reverse Manufacturing’s Fall
...Though manufacturing has long been in decline, the loss of factory jobs has been especially brutal of late, with nearly two million disappearing since the recession began in December 2007. Even a few chief executives, heading companies that have shifted plenty of production abroad, are beginning to express alarm...
NYTimes.com

Monday 7-20-09

Mariposa County Landfill Continues to Lose Money
$189,500.  That is the number the Solid Waste and Recycling Division has lost in 2008 to the four transfer stations in Mariposa County.
With operating expenses of $255,000 and income of $65,500 the $189,500 difference has been borne by the division. This is the scenario that Department Head, Dana Hertfelder presented to the Board of Supervisors at the Board of Supervisor meeting on July 14, 2009.
SIERRA SUN TIMES

Where were you on
July 20, 1969?
In front of a console television watching history being made.
NASA - Apollo 40th Anniversary

The Wawona Friends of the Library are hosting an 'Evening with the Artist'
The featured artist will be Guido Stauffer on Tuesday, July 28 in the Bassett Memorial Library in Wawona at 7 p.m.
Mariposa News - The Wawona Friends of the Library are hosting an 'Evening with the Artist'

From the Email Bin:
Fresno County, left in the dust - Los Angeles Times

Think it Was Hotter Yesterday than Saturday?
It sure was!
Temps from around the area yesterday:
Personal Weather Stations not Official Weather Stations.
Mariposa Fairgrounds: 105.0
Sierra Sun Times Weather Station in Mariposa also 106.0
Out on Usona Road: 104.1
Yosemite Lakes Park near Coarsegold: 115.5
Nipinnawasee 109.6
Ahwahnee 104.7
Oakhurst 106.2
Also112.6 at Bear Valley
Whew!
Also the Weather page contains additional information
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

In the Area News:
Merced County landfill more than a dumping ground,
Modesto sizzles for a sixth straight day,
Angels Camp Will Celebrate New Bypass
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
A barking dog in the early morning hours was keeping the neighbors on Pautzke Court wide awake.
The caller from Leonard Road was missing a horse.
Out on Silver Bar Road someone abandoned a pet rat.
(Tough Times in Mariposa County leads to Tough Decisions.)
During the evening hours down in Catheys Valley some fool was lighting off fireworks in the Whispering Oaks area ...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hotter Today than Yesterday
NOAA has Issued and Excessive Heat Warning for Today!
Check your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Monday's Forecast
102-112 Today: Sunny and hot today with the high temps rising a degree or two from Sunday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY SUNNY WITH A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 93 TO 102 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...70 TO 80 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLEAR. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. LOWS 53 TO 63 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...44 TO 54 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
New Administration Proposal Would Let Foreclosed Borrowers Rent Their Homes
If enacted, the plan would attempt to address the glut of vacant properties in neighborhoods across the country, helping drag down home values. It would be yet another acknowledgment by the Obama administration that some borrowers cannot be saved from foreclosure despite government and industry efforts.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

CalPERS
Think this could not happen in Mariposa?
It Has.
Pension Calculus Draws New Scrutiny
A California dustup over large pension payments is shining a spotlight on the practice of spiking -- increasing a salary just before retirement and boosting the lifelong payout.
WSJ.com
AND
...A case in point for Crane is what legislators were told about the SB 400 benefit increase, The California Public Employees Retirement System expected state pension contributions to “remain below the 1998-99 fiscal year for at least the next decade.”
Instead, state contributions to CalPERS, which were $766 million in 1998-99, had climbed above that amount four years later. The state payment to CalPERS in the fiscal year that began this month is $3.3 billion.
Calpensions

California Economy
Highway spending isn't the stimulus it was envisioned to be
...The allocation for transportation projects is a tiny part of the stimulus bill's overall spending, but it's one of the most powerful in terms of potential economic impact per dollar. The White House calculates that every $1 billion spent on highway work will create 11,000 jobs, directly or indirectly. Private estimates are as high as 35,000 jobs per $1 billion...
Los Angeles Times

United States Economy
Pimco’s Gross Reduces Mortgage Holdings, Adds to Cash
...In an investment outlook published earlier this month, Gross said investors should look for “secure income” offered by bonds and dividend-paying stocks. “The outlook for risk assets -- stocks, high-yield bonds, and commercial and residential real estate will involve just that -- risk,” he said in the July 1 report...
Bloomberg.com

Sunday 7-19-09

See how your water cooler should be performing in today's heat

Think it Was Hot Yesterday?
It sure was!
Temps from around the area yesterday:
Mariposa Fairgrounds: 104.6
Sierra Sun Times Weather Station in Mariposa also 104.6
Out on Usona Road: 102.8
Yosemite Lakes Park near Coarsegold: 112.8
Nipinnawasee 107.1
Ahwahnee 102
Oakhurst 102.8
Also about 108 at Bagby
Whew!

Another fabulous history story on Mariposa County as Tom Phillips researched the history of Mariposa's many early newspapers with some surprising information.
A Sunday Special
Mariposa County History
by Tom Phillips
Mariposa Newspapers
Mariposa Newspapers

Start Sunday with a Smile
Click on 'The Movie'
Evian Live Young - Le Film

Coming up at this Tuesday's Board of Supervisors Meeting the CAO, Rick Benson will present a Preliminary report to the Supervisors on the 2009-2010 budget.
Mr. Benson mentions there is a $1,000,000 gap in the proposed budget.
Here is part of his presentation.
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-21-09

Reminder: Today:
Bill Coate from Channel 26 will be at the Mariposa Museum and History Center at 2:00 P.M. to give a presentation on a 'Surprise Topic.' This is another in a continuing series of Fireside Chats presented by the Museum. There is no charge to for this presentation.

Coulterville Community Club Meeting and the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce
More Comments...
Coulterville Community Club Meeting and the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce | SIERRA SUN TIMES

Plan Your Day
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
Yosemite Archaeology and Paiute Indians,
Oakhurst's new 'mayor' works hard for the money,
Community Day Of Caring Rally
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
A vehicle was burglarized on the 140 near El Portal.
During the afternoon hours someone was making threats on Joe Howard Road.
Over on Chowchilla Mountain Road someone was riding a Quad on the roadway.
Petty theft occurred at the Jerseydale Fire Station.
During the evening hours the sheriff was called out to the Jerseydale Campground as someone was making noise during the quiet time...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hot, Hot, Hot Today!
Check your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Sunday's Forecast
100-110 Today: Sunny and hot today with the high temps in the neighborhood of Saturday's high temps within a degree or two.
Yosemite: MOSTLY SUNNY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 94 TO 103 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...71 TO 81 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. LOWS 57 TO 67 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...47 TO 57 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
New Administration Proposal Would Let Foreclosed Borrowers Rent Their Homes
If enacted, the plan would attempt to address the glut of vacant properties in neighborhoods across the country, helping drag down home values. It would be yet another acknowledgment by the Obama administration that some borrowers cannot be saved from foreclosure despite government and industry efforts.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California Economy
June jobless rates a downer
...Stephen Levy, a Palo Alto economic consultant, said the collapse of the real estate market remains the single biggest factor behind California's problems. But the budget standoff, which has resulted in three monthly furloughs and the prospect of up to 7,000 layoffs, is making things significantly worse, said Levy, director of the Center for Continuing Study of the California Economy. That's especially true in Sacramento...
Sacramento Bee
AND
Two California banks closed - FDIC
Bank regulators closed two California banks -- Vineyard Bank in Rancho Cucamonga and Temecula Valley Bank in Temecula -- on Friday, the 56th and 57th U.S. banks to fail this year as the struggling economy and falling home prices take their toll on financial institutions.
Reuters

United States Economy
TARP Inspector Urges Treasury to Track Banks’ Aid More Closely
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner should press banks for more information on how they use the more than $200 billion the government has pumped into U.S. financial institutions, according to a new oversight report.
Bloomberg.com
AND
CIT’s Peek May Be Paid Ahead of Treasury in Case of Bankruptcy
Peek is owed $14.7 million if he’s terminated or there’s a change of control at CIT. A compensation claim would put him ahead of shareholders -- including the U.S. Treasury -- in the event of liquidation, Scott Peltz, managing director of the corporate restructuring group at RSM McGladrey, said in an interview.
Bloomberg.com

Saturday 7-18-09

Coulterville Community Club Meeting and the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce
More Comments...
Coulterville Community Club Meeting and the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce | SIERRA SUN TIMES

YARD SALE FUNDRAISER
Saturday, July 18th at 5050 Smith Road in Mariposa (by the hospital)
All proceeds will support a team of 3 (2 high schoolers, one adult) going to China in August to teach English to children at a community center in Taiyun. We will begin at 8:00 am! Please no early birds

Mariposa County Unemployment Report For June 2009 Shows a Rise in Unemployment
The Mariposa County Unemployment rate for June 2009 stood at 10.9 % (Prelim).
A Rise of .8% from the May 2009 (revised 10.1 %) report (That is twenty more residents were unemployed compared to May 2009) and 4.7% higher than June 2008. That is 340 more residents were unemployed compared to June 2008.
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Unemployment Report For June 2009

4TH ANNUAL MARIPOSA MOUNTAIN RIDER VERSATILE RANCH HORSE COMPETITION
Mariposa Mountain Riders hosted it’s 4th annual Open Breed Versatile Ranch Horse Competition on Saturday June 20^th at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds.  This competition showcased the working ranch horse in 5 classes:  Ranch Riding, Reining, Cattle work, Trail and Halter. 
13 riders competed in two divisions.  Mariposa News - 4TH ANNUAL MARIPOSA MOUNTAIN RIDER VERSATILE RANCH HORSE COMPETITION

Mariposa High School Graduate Kimberly Van Meter, has another new book out:
Kids on the Doorstep
This book is also available on Kindle
Amazon
This is from a while back when Kimberly was in Mariposa for a book signing:
GOLDRUSHCAM-MESSAGE BOARD: 2008,SEPTEMBER,15,MONDAY

The Mariposa County Sheriff Deputy Association has changed the Look of their Website.
Check it out.
Mariposa DSA

Yosemite National Park Extends Merced River Plan Public Scoping 90 Days
Please note that the following scoping meetings have been postponed at this time:
Wednesday, July 22 Mariposa Government Center 5100 Bullion St., Mariposa, CA 95338 (2nd Floor)
AND
Tuesday, July 28 Mono Basin Visitor Center Highway 395, Lee Vining, CA 93541
AND
Wednesday, July 29 Yosemite Valley Auditorium Open House Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
AND
Thursday, July 30 Groveland Community Hall Groveland, CA 95321
Mariposa News - Yosemite National Park Extends Merced River Plan Public Scoping 90 Days

Planning Commission Agenda for July 24, 2009
Mariposa News - Mariposa Public Notices

Plan Your Day
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
...fellow Patriots lineman, Logan Mankins, couldn’t have cared less.
“I don’t remember too much about it,” he said of his football experience at Mariposa County (Calif.) High School.
Unemployment Rate Increases Across Mother Lode,
June jobless numbers harsh across valley
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
During the evening hours unlocked gates were reported at the Coulterville Cemetery but the responding deputy could not find a unlocked gate.
(Strange Happenings in Coulterville.)
Vandalism was reported on Creel Road.
At seven in the morning a burglary in progress was reported at the El Portal Market.
A resident on Whitmore Road reported a phone scam...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hotter Today!
Check your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Saturday's Forecast
100-110 Today: Mostly sunny and hot today with the high temps around two degrees hotter than Friday's high temps. Clouds could be moving in throughout the day leading to partly cloudy conditions for tonight.
Yosemite: MOSTLY SUNNY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 95 TO 104 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...73 TO 83 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. LOWS 53 TO 63 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...43 TO 53 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
U.S. Economy: Housing Starts Gain to Seven-Month High 
Housing starts in the U.S. unexpectedly rose in June as construction of single-family dwellings jumped by the most since 2004, signaling the market is stabilizing even as unemployment worsens.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California Manufacturing Bottoms Out
A quarterly survey of California purchasing managers points to a moderate rebound in the manufacturing sector in the third quarter of 2009. An index value over 50 shows expansion. Hence the reading of 53.3 for the third quarter is the first time since the first quarter of 2008 that the index is above 50.
Chapman University (.PDF File)

State Budget Deal Appears Closer, City Funds Remain in Jeopardy
Legislative leadership and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, also known as the Big Five, met multiple times this week to attempt to resolve the state's deficit. The budget gap is now estimated at $26.3 billion. While the leaders say they are close, in the absence of a final agreement, the remaining legislators returned to their districts for the weekend. Of critical importance to cities is that local government funding remains "on the table" and is extremely vulnerable through a variety of irresponsible and illegal budget proposals and scenarios. In an article that appeared in today's Sacramento Bee it is being reported that "California cities and counties will take a multibillion-dollar hit to help close the state's massive budget gap."
League of California Cities

Reforming State Government - Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
Throughout his entire administration, Governor Schwarzenegger has proposed ideas to make state government more efficient, root our waste and abuse of taxpayer dollars, and protect our state against future budget deficits. Again, in the context of the current year's $26.3 billion deficit, the Governor has offered many of those same ideas as compromise solutions to achieve savings that will enable California to save programs and break the gridlock in the Legislature.
Reforming State Government - Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger


California Economy
California's budget gap won't close for long
... But a balanced budget is seen as fleeting because California's economy, which is reeling from high unemployment and the recession, will remain in the dumps for some time. Closing the current shortfall does not account for further deterioration in the economy -- and revenue -- that many economists expect. "It will be horrible next year," said economist Steve Levy of the Center for the Continuing Study of the California Economy...
Reuters

Friday 7-17-09

Lookout Gold Dredgers!
Stop the suction dredging of state's rivers

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-21-09
Highlights:
10:30 a.m. CALENDAR
Preliminary Report, Discussion and Direction Regarding Fiscal Year 2009-2010 Budget
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-21-09

Letter to the Editor - Thank You
Thank you to my most wonderful friends and family!
Reaching the age of 60 is a monumental stage in a person's life.  You either are dreading it or can't wait for it to happen.   I could not wait to turn 60.  To finally be a senior citizen is exciting.  But to have all my friends and family surprise me with a birthday party after the 40th Annual Deep Pit Bar B.B.Q. was really amazing. Mariposa News - Letter to the Editor - Thank You

Acorn Cooperative Preschool Moves To The White House
Acorn Cooperative Preschool’s long search for a new home has finally come to an end. The preschool will open the 2009-2010 school year at the White House on 5034 Darrah Road in Bootjack and as the big sign in front of its new home reads “Preschool Now Enrolling.”
Mariposa News - Acorn Cooperative Preschool Moves To The White House

Another Media First For Mariposa County From The Sierra Sun Times!
The Sierra Sun Times has put their scanner online. Mariposa County EMS, Fire and Sheriff are monitored online though the Sierra Sun Times Scanner.
24 hours a day, seven days a week.
When you click the link select the station that has the Sheriff listed.
That is the Sierra Sun Times Scanner.
Enjoy
Mariposa County, California (CA) Live Police, Fire, and EMS Scanners on RadioReference.com

Footnotes from North County Lyle Turpin, Mariposa County Supervisor District 2
Governor Schwarzenegger - hold your ground on the State Budget.  Our state government needs to become smaller.  More government just cannot support itself. Our state has become so anti business and this attitude must be reversed.  Another part of this scenario is that the same attitude has trickled down to Mariposa County. Mariposa News - Footnotes from North County Lyle Turpin, Mariposa County Supervisor District 2

Mariposa Pines News
The next Mariposa Pines/Jerseydale Fire Safe Committee regular membership meeting will be held on Wed., July 22, 2009, at Jerseydale Fire Service Station at 7:00 pm.
Mariposa Pines News

Make Your Weekend Plans
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

Reports: Revenue from State Parks Exceeds Cost
In June, Sacramento State University published a report stating that the average party that spends a night in a California state park spends $57 at local businesses.
Santa Cruz News

In the Area News:
No Yosemite decision yet in superintendent post,
Machinist carves out role at Railtown,
Hess puts gardening myths to bed
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
One accident was reported in the county yesterday and that accident took place on the 140 near Aqua Fria Road during the afternoon hours that involved minor injuries.
Eight stray kittens were found on Woodview Lane.
During the evening hours on Cedar Avenue in the Fish Camp area a caller reported that vandalism had taken place.
Some abandoned dogs were found on Silver Bar Road.
Petty theft of gas was reported from Joe Howard Road..
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hot Today!
Check your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
They can go to the Senior Center in Mariposa to cool off.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Friday's Forecast
98-108 Today: Sunny and hot today with the high temps inline with Thursday's high temps. Clouds could be moving in throughout the day leading to partly cloudy conditions for tonight.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY SUNNY WITH A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 92 TO 102 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...70 TO 80 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. LOWS 54 TO 64 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...42 TO 52 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
U.S. Foreclosure Filings Hit Record 1.5 Million in First Half Defaults by subprime borrowers with poor credit histories spurred the housing recession and spread to prime borrowers as home prices and sales declined. The Mortgage Bankers Association said May 28 that prime fixed-rate home loans to the most creditworthy borrowers accounted for 29 percent of new foreclosures in the first quarter, the biggest share of any type of loan.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Radanovich applauds Colleagues Efforts to Solve Regulatory Drought, But More Needs to Be Done
Congressman Radanovich (R-Mariposa) today spoke on the House floor during debate on the Fiscal Year 2010 Energy and Water Appropriations bill.  Radanovich applauded amendments offered to help alleviate the San Joaquin Valley’s regulatory drought but acknowledged there is still much work left to be done.
Mariposa News - Radanovich applauds Colleagues Efforts to Solve Regulatory Drought, But More Needs to Be Done

Investigating Loan Modification Scams
The Department of Real Estate (DRE) is now investigating over 800 cases involving loan modification complaints, up from less than 10 a year ago.  The DRE has taken action against hundreds of respondents, most of whom are unlicensed, who illegally collect advance fees in exchange for promises of a loan modification.
Office of the Governor

California Economy
S&P Cuts California Economic Recovery Bond Rating
Standard & Poor's on Thursday lowered its long-term and underlying ratings on California's $8.6 billion in economic recovery bonds to A from A+ and placed the ratings on CreditWatch with negative implications.
Bourse - UPDATE: S&P Cuts California Economic Recovery Bond Rating
AND
California workers’ confidence drops
Nearly half – 44 percent – fear they will lose their jobs, an increase of nine percentage points from the same question asked in a May survey.
Fewer workers say they are confident in their ability to find a new job – 43 percent in June compared to 49 percent in May’s Spherion survey. And nearly eight out of ten (78 percent) of workers believe there are fewer jobs available compared to 69 percent who felt that way in May.
CVBT

Thursday 7-16-09

Acorn Cooperative Preschool Moves To The White House
Acorn Cooperative Preschool’s long search for a new home has finally come to an end. The preschool will open the 2009-2010 school year at the White House on 5034 Darrah Road in Bootjack and as the big sign in front of its new home reads “Preschool Now Enrolling.”
Mariposa News - Acorn Cooperative Preschool Moves To The White House

Another Media First For Mariposa County From The Sierra Sun Times!
The Sierra Sun Times has put their scanner online. Mariposa County EMS, Fire and Sheriff are monitored online though the Sierra Sun Times Scanner.
24 hours a day, seven days a week.
When you click the link select the station that has the Sheriff listed.
That is the Sierra Sun Times Scanner.
Enjoy
Mariposa County, California (CA) Live Police, Fire, and EMS Scanners on RadioReference.com

Make Your Weekend Plans
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

Leroy Radanovich's
Mariposa Life;
COMMUNITY OF EVENTS ON HISTORIC PROPERTY
This last Saturday evening, sitting on my favorite porch, listening to the music from the Art Park drifting up my way, I began
appreciating even more the efforts of the Mariposa County Arts Council and my friend Ronnie Sweeting. Dear friend “Cousin Jack” Franklin had a lot to do with us having this Art Park where many
events can be held outdoors downtown
COMMUNITY OF EVENTS ON HISTORIC PROPERTY

A couple of days ago we had a headline that read 'In Another of a Series of Missteps the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce has the Residents of Coulterville riled up on how the Chamber hires and fires employees at the Northern Mariposa County Visitor Center.'
The information in the following column is what took place at that meeting with an editorial about these 'Missteps' to follow later on.

Coulterville Community Club Meeting and the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce
On Monday evening July 13, 2009, members of the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce attended a meeting of the Coulterville Community Club. According to Chamber of Commerce President MaryAnn Huff some items that came up at the June meeting of the Community Club made her feel that she needed to explain to the Community Club members what the Chamber is all about.
SIERRA SUN TIMES

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting of
July 14, 2009 -
Catheys Valley Community Plan
At the Tuesday July 14, 2009 evening meeting of the Board of Supervisors, the Board continued a meeting from a few weeks ago on the Catheys Valley Community Plan. The Board was now into the Deliberation Phase and no public comment was permitted. About forty interested citizens were in attendance to watch the BOS deliberate on the Plan
SIERRA SUN TIMES

Midpines Planning Advisory Meeting July 16, 2009
Today
Midpines Community Hall
7:00-9:00P.M.
Agenda

In the Area News:
Scott Peterson Wants To Appeal Conviction,
A fire near Bass Lake has destroyed a house,
Thousands more Lode residents to get high-speed Internet access,
General Plan addition eases Ag development
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Grand theft was reported from Carleton Road.
Someone on Old Highway Road called in about harassment.
A neglected animal call came in from near the intersection of Main Street and Chinatown Street in the Coulterville area.
The caller from Woodview Lane reported feral cats creating a problem.
On Princeton Way a domestic dispute was taking place during the afternoon hours..
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hot Today!
Check your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
They can go to the Senior Center in Mariposa to cool off.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Thursday's Forecast
98-108 Today: Sunny and hot today with the high temps rising another couple of degrees over Wednesday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY IN THE MORNING THEN BECOMING MOSTLY SUNNY. HIGHS 92 TO 102 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...70 TO 80 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY IN THE EVENING THEN CLEARING. LOWS 50 TO 60 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...41 TO 51 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY..
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
U.S. Foreclosure Filings Hit Record 1.5 Million in First Half Defaults by subprime borrowers with poor credit histories spurred the housing recession and spread to prime borrowers as home prices and sales declined. The Mortgage Bankers Association said May 28 that prime fixed-rate home loans to the most creditworthy borrowers accounted for 29 percent of new foreclosures in the first quarter, the biggest share of any type of loan.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California DMV Online Transactions Increase Dramatically
During the first six months of 2009, DMV handled some 4.7 million online transactions, which amounts to a 20.4 percent bump over the 3.9 million transactions that occurred during the same period in 2008.
Office of the Governor

Governor Swears in New Appointees to the Board of Registered Nursing
Well, as you know, we had some problems with previous boards, with the previous board. And basically, before you go off and do your work, I wanted to personally swear you in and just to encourage you. When we talk about public safety we traditionally always think about, you know, protecting people on the streets and their communities and their homes, kids in schools and so on.
Governor Swears in New Appointees to the Board of Registered Nursing

California Economy
Counties, CSAC Gear Up for Reform Effort
Nearly 100 county supervisors, county administrative officers and other leaders will join their city and school board partners at the Local Government Summit on State Governance and Fiscal Reform, July 17- 18, in Sacramento.
Counties and CSAC Gear Up for Reform Effort

United States Economy
CIT Calls Bailout Unlikely, Fuels Bankruptcy Concern
...Supporters of U.S. aid pointed to CIT’s 1 million customers who may lose funding, including 300,000 retailers. Tracy Mullin, chief executive of the National Retail Federation, said in a letter to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner that a CIT failure “cannot be allowed to happen at a time when retailers are already struggling to survive the national recession.” Bloomberg.com
 

Wednesday 7-15-09

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting of
July 14, 2009 -
Catheys Valley Community Plan
At the Tuesday July 14, 2009 evening meeting of the Board of Supervisors, the Board continued a meeting from a few weeks ago on the Catheys Valley Community Plan. The Board was now into the Deliberation Phase and no public comment was permitted. About forty interested citizens were in attendance to watch the BOS deliberate on the Plan
SIERRA SUN TIMES

Yosemite Gifts and The Gold Coin Red-Tagged by Mariposa County
At the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 14, 2009,  Su Carney owner of Yosemite Gifts addressed the BOS about ongoing problems with the destruction of the Gold Coin building as her building and the Gold Coin have a common wall between them. Su Carney had a letter from Floyd Davis, a State Civil Engineer who she has retained for advice on the situation.
Mariposa News - Yosemite Gifts and The Gold Coin Red-Tagged by Mariposa County

Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce Business Mixer
We would like to invite the community to attend the “Business after Hours” event on Tuesday, July 21^st, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  This business mixer will be hosted by the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce and San Joaquin Drug. The event will be held at the home of the owners Mike and Mary Bass, located at 4453 Scrubby Oak Road in Mariposa.
Goldrushcam  Out And About In Mariposa County  A Monthly Listing Of Things To Do In Mariposa County

First Case of Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Reported in Mariposa County
The case in Mariposa County is a child under five years old who was seen for flu-like symptoms and whose lab test is positive for Influenza.  The Pandemic H1N1 strain currently causes more than 95% of cases of Influenza in California.  The patient is recovering well.  Flu symptoms are low grade fever, sore throat, dry cough and muscle aches. The ill child and identified contacts have been advised to stay home until they are not contagious.
Mariposa News - First Case of Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Reported in Mariposa County

Wednesday Food For Thought
Calaveras County:
Judges uphold road impact fee,
The Road Impact Mitigation fee in Calaveras County is $4,062 per single-family home.
San Andreas

The County now has the Grand Jury Report online:
2008-2009 Report

Midpines Planning Advisory Meeting July 16, 2009
Thursday
Midpines Community Hall
7:00-9:00P.M.
Agenda

The Sonora area  had a little shaker yesterday
A microearthquake occurred at 9:54:54 AM (PDT) on Tuesday, July 14, 2009.
The magnitude 2.1 event occurred 8 km (5 miles) WNW of Chinese Camp, CA.
Info for event nc71248291

In the Area News:
Angels Camp: Magazine notices thrift shops,
Proposed Transit Fare Hike Approved,
County planning document to account for housing crisis
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
One reported accident in the county yesterday and that accident took place on Hirsch Road near Creekview Road during the later morning hours.
On Cricket Hill Road some cows were out having a meeting during the morning commute hours.
Vandalism was reported at Lake Don Pedro Elementary School.
Out on Cat Town Road a couple of neighbors were having a dispute
during the noon hour.
On East Whitlock Road a landlord and a tenant were having a dispute.
Grand theft was reported from 5th street during the afternoon hours.
A resident on Princeton Way was receiving annoying phone calls..
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hot Today!
Check your elderly neighbors to see that they are okay.
They can go to the Senior Center in Mariposa to cool off.
Also watch out for animals in distress.
Another Gorgeous Day:
Wednesday's Forecast
98-108 Today: Sunny and hot today with the high temps rising another two to four degrees over Tuesday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY. HIGHS 93 TO 102 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...70 TO 80 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLEAR. LOWS 49 TO 59 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...39 TO 49 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Bill would suspend new home appraisal standards
Major real estate groups are pushing for a moratorium on new appraisal standards that they say are scuttling sales, hampering refinancings and depressing prices at a time when the sector desperately needs a boost...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Senator Cogdill Leads Tribute to Jordan Family for Largest CSU Cash Gift in History
The California State Senate honored the Jordan family for their generous donation of $29.4 million to the Fresno State College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, now known as the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology. The donation, from the late Hanabul “Bud” Jordan, and his brother, the late Lowell Jordan, is the largest single cash gift ever given to any California State University. Bud ran a general contracting business in Hayward and Lowell ranched cattle in Dublin.
Mariposa News - Senator Cogdill Leads Tribute to Jordan Family for Largest CSU Cash Gift in History

California Economy
Economic woes cause stone-fruit packers to close
Rising production costs, lower returns, a slumping national economy and other factors have hit the stone-fruit business in the central San Joaquin Valley. At least eight fruit packinghouses have closed in just the last year, and analysts say they expect more could follow.
Economic woes cause stone-fruit packers to close

World Economy
Global Confidence Drops as Unemployment Surge Counters Stimulus
“No one can wave a magic wand,” said David Semmens, an economist at Standard Chartered Bank in New York and a regular survey participant. “We aren’t pulling out of the recession in the same way as in past recessions. The economic outlook isn’t improving as strongly as people would have hoped.”
Bloomberg.com

Tuesday 7-14-09

Mariposa Residents and Schoolchildren take the Bus to Sacramento
On Monday morning July13, 2009 some of the residents and schoolchildren of Mariposa County along with other school districts in the State made a bus journey to Sacramento to protest the possible cutting of transportation dollars to the busing of schoolchildren, as the State is locked in a budget deadlock and a deficit of $24 Billion plus is facing the State.
Mariposa News - Mariposa Residents and Schoolchildren take the Bus to Sacramento

In Another of a Series of Missteps the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce has the Residents of Coulterville riled up on how the Chamber hires and fires employees at the Northern Mariposa County Visitor Center.
It was a hot time at the Coulterville Community Club last night as the Chamber of Commerce explained to the residents of Coulterville, of which between twenty and twenty five were in attendance how the Chamber functions and what they do for the Chamber Members. But the pressing questions were coming from the Community Club and the audience about how the Chamber hires and fires employees. One employee has quit and the other employee was not called back this year and was replaced by a Director from the Chamber who then after being hired for the position stepped down from the Director's position.
More later on.

Mariposa County Fire Department Log
Week of July 4th to July 10, 2009
Jul 4^th
●EMS call on Indian Gulch - #23 Catheys Valley● EMS call on Old Highway - #27 Mormon Bar●
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Fire Department Log

Reminder: Today:
Board of Supervisors meeting today at 9:00 A.M.
Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda: 7-14-09
After a two week time-out,  the BOS is back with a very, very long agenda for the day that ends with the continuation of the Public hearing of the Catheys Valley Plan at 6:30 P.M.
AND
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-14-09
Coming up at the 7/14/2009 Board of Supervisors Meeting:
Solid Waste Transfer Stations Loosing Over $190,000 a Year,
Possibly More Money for Personnel, The Condition of Housing In Mariposa County from the Block Grant Application
AND
Catheys Valley Community Plan
Tuesday 7-14-09
Government Center in Mariposa
6:30 P.M.
Mariposa County, CA - Official Website - Catheys Valley Community Plan - Draft

The County now has the Grand Jury Report online:
2008-2009 Report

Midpines Planning Advisory Meeting July 16, 2009
Thursday
Midpines Community Hall
7:00-9:00P.M.
Agenda
And
6-17-09 Minutes
Mariposa News - Midpines News News Of The Midpines Area Of Mariposa County

In the Area News:
Ten Hikers Rescued Near Bass Lake,
Atwater City Council lambastes Cal Fire,
SPI closure postponed until next month
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
During the afternoon hours a loose dog was running around the Coulterville Park.
An unknown disturbance was reported from Fairgrounds Road during the evening hours.
Someone on the 140 was bitten by a cat.
Two cases of possible elder abuse was reported in the county yesterday...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Hot Today!
Check your elderly neighbors
and animals for distress
Another Gorgeous Day:
Tuesday's Forecast
96-106 Today: Sunny and hot today with the high temps rising six plus degrees over Monday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY. HIGHS 90 TO 99 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...65 TO 75 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...CLEAR. LOWS 53 TO 63 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...41 TO 51 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Appraisers shunning FHA work
New rules governing appraisals on loans slated for purchase by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are also affecting valuations conducted for loans guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration, trade groups representing appraisers say...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Senator Cogdill Legislation to Protect Access to Health Care in Rural Communities Headed to Governor’s Desk
The California State Assembly unanimously approved Senate Bill 198 by Senator Dave Cogdill (R-Modesto), which would provide healthcare districts with the financial flexibility needed to serve patients better. SB 198 would allow healthcare districts to consolidate and refinance old debts using long-term lines of credit and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for approval.
Mariposa News - Senator Cogdill Legislation to Protect Access to Health Care in Rural Communities Headed to Governor’s Desk

Senator Cogdill Continues Push for Comprehensive Solution to State’s Water Crisis
Senator Dave Cogdill (R-Modesto)  issued the following statement after the Senate voted to form a conference committee to examine water related issues:
“Dealing with California’s water crisis is imperative and the time to act is now. I look forward to close collaboration with our Democrat colleagues on all the water-related issues facing California.
Mariposa News - Senator Cogdill Continues Push for Comprehensive Solution to State’s Water Crisis

Radanovich Signs Pacific Legal Foundation’s ‘Save Our Water’ Petition to Schwarzenegger and Obama
Congressman George Radanovich (R-Mariposa) signed the Pacific Legal Foundation’s petition to Governor Schwarzenegger and President Obama urging Governor Schwarzenegger to ask the federal government to convene the Endangered Species Committee, or ‘God Squad’, to exempt the operations of the state and federal water delivery systems from the draconian Endangered Species Act regulations.  The petition also asks Obama to act favorably on the request.
Mariposa News - Radanovich Signs Pacific Legal Foundation’s ‘Save Our Water’ Petition to Schwarzenegger and Obama

California Economy
California Politicians Negotiate to Close Deficit
California’s credit rating was cut a week ago for the second time in as many weeks by Fitch Ratings, which cited the state’s inability to reach a budget agreement. Fitch lowered its rating of California’s general obligation bonds by two steps to BBB from A-, placing the debt two ranks above so-called high- yield, high-risk junk ratings, and said the state may be cut further.
Bloomberg.com

United States Economy
Banks Made ‘Bloody Fortune’ While Subsidized by U.S.
Spitzer said new rules proposed by President Barack Obama’s administration are irrelevant because regulators failed to enforce existing regulations.
“Regulatory agencies already had the power to do everything they needed to do,” he said. “They just affirmatively chose not to do it.” “You don’t need new regs to do it, you just need the will to do what they were supposed to do,” he said.
Bloomberg.com

Monday 7-13-09

California budget cuts target school bus service
Budget cuts and increased fuel costs are combining to make it harder for school districts to provide bus service for students. And a new state proposal could render transportation funding as optional for school officials.
Sacramento Bee

YouTube
Cousin Jack Music Festival 2009 - performer Ronnie Sweeting

Catheys Valley Community Plan
Tuesday 7-14-09
Government Center in Mariposa
6:30 P.M.
Mariposa County, CA - Official Website - Catheys Valley Community Plan - Draft

New Report from the United States Geological Survey
Groundwater Availability of the Central Valley Aquifer, California
California’s Central Valley covers about 20,000 square miles and is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. More than 250 different crops are grown in the Central Valley with an estimated value of $17 billion per year. This irrigated agriculture relies heavily on surface-water diversions and groundwater pumpage. Approximately one-sixth of the Nation’s irrigated land is in the Central Valley, and about one-fifth of the Nation’s groundwater demand is supplied from its aquifers.
USGS Professional Paper 1766: Groundwater Availability of the Central Valley Aquifer, California

SULTRY SUMMER SHINDIG Calling All Car, Bike Buffs and Music Lovers!
The Show Your Chrome_sm car and motorcycle show will add some sizzle to a hot day filled with the sultry vibes of four great bands…all happening on Saturday, August 1^st at the Coulterville park from 11 am ‘till 8 pm.  Classic and antique cars, hot rods and customized bikes ….both inside and surrounding the park… will be vying for a whole host of awards.
Mariposa News - SULTRY SUMMER SHINDIG Calling All Car, Bike Buffs and Music Lovers!

Reminder:
This coming weekend is another free weekend to get into Yosemite and the other National Parks in the U.S. A.

Midpines Planning Advisory Meeting July 16, 2009
Thursday
Midpines Community Hall
7:00-9:00P.M.
Agenda
And
6-17-09 Minutes
Mariposa News - Midpines News News Of The Midpines Area Of Mariposa County

Own a Small Business?
The I.R.S. has issued new guidelines for their agents
IRC § 183: Activities Not Engaged in For Profit (ATG)

Monday Food For Thought:
California Hotel Defaults, Foreclosures Surge; Reflect Nationwide Trend
In news that could have national implications for the hotel industry, 175 hotels in California are in default on their loans and an additional 31 have been foreclosed, according to a June 28 report by Atlas Hospitality Group.
A sharp decline in room revenues, combined with a jump in cap rates, has contributed to significant declines in property values, the report indicated.
According to University of California economist Kenneth Rosen, as many as one in five hotel loans in the United States may default through 2010.
Atlas Hospitality Group - The Market Leader in California Hotel Sales

In the Area News:
Changes Proposed For Tuolumne County Transit,
Geological Survey finds steep drop in Central Valley's groundwater,
Bass Lake Drowning
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
One accident was reported in the county yesterday and that accident took place near the Bootjack Market  on Darrah Road and involved property damage after two white vehicles collided.
A request for service on Miller Road during the early morning hours resulted in an individual getting a free lift to the county pokey.
Vandalism was reported on Triangle Road.
Someone was being harassed on East Westfall Road.
The Sheriff was called out to Yosemite Gifts over a civil matter during
the noon hour...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Enjoy today as the Temps are going to heat up this week
Another Gorgeous Day:
Monday's Forecast
90-100 Today: Sunny today with the high temps rising two to three degrees over Sunday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY. HIGHS 85 TO 93 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...63 TO 73 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...CLEAR. LOWS 46 TO 56 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...37 TO 47 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Foreclosed Homes Pitched In Auction
The auction, conducted by Auction.com, collected $11.5 million at the first of two northern California auctions in two days. A statement released by the Real Estate Disposition Corp. group indicated that 133 foreclosed homes in the Sacramento area quickly sold for $30,000, to $60,000, to more than $100,000...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

United States Economy
The Case For Unavoidable Increases In The Stimulus Package
President Obama’s main economic advisor, former Harvard president and Secretary of the Treasury Lawrence Summers told the FT last week that “I don’t think the worst is over … It’s very likely that more jobs will be lost. It would not be surprising if GDP has not yet reached its low.” That is a remarkably grim and pessimistic statement by a man who is supposed to be the primary cheerleader of the efficacy of the government’s fiscal policy. The economy is getting worse. Nearly everyone sees that. Honesty is taking the place of posturing and the difficult evidence that the recovery is not at hand continues to roll in.
24/7 Wall Street
AND
CIT Group Says Its Failure Risks Demise of Customers
CIT became a bank in December to qualify for a government bailout and received $2.33 billion in funds from the U.S. Treasury.
The stock declined 12 cents, or 9 percent, to $1.41 as of 11:26 a.m. in Frankfurt today. It dropped 46 cents, or 23 percent, last week in New York Stock Exchange composite trading.
July 13 (Bloomberg) -- CIT Group Inc., the century-old lender that hasn’t been able to persuade the government to back its debt sales, says its demise would put 760 manufacturing clients at risk of failure and “precipitate a crisis” for as many as 300,000 retailers.
 Bloomberg.com

Sunday 7-12-09

Class A Consignments has new summertime hours:
New Hours: Monday 11:00-4:00
Tuesday & Sat 10:30-5:30
Wed-Fri 10:30-7:00  Sun-Closed

Coming up at the 7/14/2009 Board of Supervisors Meeting:
Solid Waste Transfer Stations Loosing Over $190,000 a Year,
Possibly More Money for Personnel, The Condition of Housing In Mariposa County from the Block Grant Application

Like Gold?
Here is a forum for you
(Use the Search for Mariposa)
Nuggethunting Forums

(A fabulous presentation by Linda)
Sunday Special SlideShow
Living With The Past - By Linda Gast
When you first come across the old building in Bear Valley you might think it is an antique store. Once you ring the huge bell above the front door and step inside you might think it's a museum.   It's actually the home of David Trabucco and  Shalmaria Jones.  They've made the old store their home for two years.   Shal, who has been busy displaying David's and her collection of family memorable said "It (the building) was pretty rough when we moved in". 
Sierra Sun Times - Living With The Past - By Linda Gast

Odella's Antiques & Nostalgia is Having a Customer Appreciation Sale this month
Odella's Antiques & Nostalgia - Mariposa, California
 
Plan Your Weekend
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
Bass Lake Drowning,
Yosemite Birding: Daily Kos: Dawn Chorus Birdblog,
Yosemite Valley protection plan back to square one
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Over on Harris Road during the evening hours someone was being harassed.
A burglary was reported from Wilburs Way.
Two lost dogs were on Highway 49 South.
During the early morning hours vandalism was reported from Saint Andrews Road.
The water fountain at the Skate Park was 'Spewing' water...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Another Gorgeous Day:
Sunday's Forecast
88-98 Today: Becoming partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers in the morning...then a slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation 20 percent with the high temps within a degree or two of Saturday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY WITH A SLIGHT CHANCE OF SHOWERS IN THE MORNING...THEN MOSTLY SUNNY WITH A SLIGHT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. BREEZY. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 20 PERCENT. HIGHS 82 TO 91 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...61 TO 71 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLEAR. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. BREEZY. LOWS 42 TO 52 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...35 TO 45 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Dramatic increase in loan rescue scams
...Law enforcement officials say the scams are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially in California, where the Department of Real Estate has reported an explosion from 10 open cases a year ago to more than 750 this spring. Nationally, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has said that the FBI's "rescue scam" caseload is up 400 percent from five years ago...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California Economy
Assembly Member Mendoza Opts Out of Vote on Municipal Bankruptcy Bill
Assembly Member Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia) announced to the Senate Local Government Committee on Wednesday, July 8, that he would not take his bill, AB 155, up for a vote. However, Assembly Member Mendoza told the committee that he still wanted to go ahead with a hearing on the bill and take testimony from proponents and opponents. This means that AB 155 did not pass the committee and remains under the jurisdiction of the committee until further notice. No further Senate Local Government Committee meetings are currently scheduled for the remainder of the year.
AB 155 would require local agencies contemplating bankruptcy to first obtain approval from the California Debt and Investment Advisory Commission (CDIAC) prior to filing for bankruptcy. The bill would also authorize CDIAC to charge local governments a fee to cover the costs associated with rendering a decision as to whether a municipality would be granted the ability to file for bankruptcy.
League of California Cities
AND
This is not a drill - brace yourself for cuts in California school programs this fall
On top of the tireless warnings about the California economy, comes a new report that evidences the continuing realities of a $25 billion budget shortfall in California education.  It was just announced on July 9, that a $4 billion apportionment to the Department of Education will not be made as scheduled.
This is not a drill - brace yourself for cuts in California school programs this fall

United States Economy
U.S. Stocks Extend Slump to Fourth Week as Sentiment, Oil Drop
July 11 (Bloomberg) -- U.S. stocks fell for a fourth week, matching the longest stretch of declines in a year, after consumer sentiment dropped more than estimated and oil’s steepest retreat since January dragged down energy shares.
Bloomberg.com

Saturday 7-11-09

Odella's Antiques & Nostalgia is Having a Customer Appreciation Sale
Odella's Antiques & Nostalgia - Mariposa, California

Mariposa News - Yosemite National Park Archeologist Laura Kirn Wins Prestigious Award from Goucher College
Yosemite National Park Archeologist Laura Kirn was selected as the 2009 winner of the Goucher College Master of Arts in Historic Preservation Alumnae Prize (MAHP) as the outstanding first year student in the historic preservation graduate program. Kirn was selected by a committee of alumnae from Goucher College.  Specifically, Kirn was recognized for her academic paper entitled "Historic Preservation in a Multicultural United States." Goucher is a private college located in Baltimore, Maryland.
Mariposa News - Yosemite National Park Archeologist Laura Kirn Wins Prestigious Award from Goucher College

Mariposa County Health Department Update on Flu Virus H1N1
The Mariposa County Health Department has been carefully watching the emergence of the flu virus that appeared in late April 2009...
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Health Department Update on Flu Virus H1N1

Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce Presents Checks from Gold Rush Golf Scramble Fundraiser to County Fire and Clubs
The Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce presented donations totaling $4500.00 from their second annual Gold Rush Golf Scramble fundraiser.
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce Presents Checks from Gold Rush Golf Scramble Fundraiser to County Fire and Clubs

Large Rummage Sale
July 17 &18‏
Mariposa Methodist Parish Hall will be the site of a  very large multi-family rummage sale with many household items, including glassware, books, exercise equipment among others. Located on Sixth Street in Mariposa.

Friday Update-Sierra NF Motorized Travel Management
It has been nearly two weeks since the public comment period closed for the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for Motorized Travel Management and we wanted to update you on what the Sierra National Forest is working on.
Mariposa News - Friday Update-Sierra NF Motorized Travel Management

Coulterville’s History Center Whips Up Breakfast Every Month
The Northern Mariposa County History Center has been cooking up a great breakfast on the second Sunday of every month for over 20 years!  Produced entirely by volunteers, this event is a fund raiser for the private, nonprofit museum located in the heart of Historic Coulterville…“the gold rush town to tough to die!”  The next scheduled date is August 9^th.
Mariposa News - Coulterville’s History Center Whips Up Breakfast Every Month

Home gardening trend is boon to seed producers
With a desire to eat fresh food and save money during the recession, more and more Americans are ripping up their lawns and planting vegetable gardens, a national trend that has spurred a boom in nursery sales of vegetable plants and seeds.
Home gardening trend is boon to seed producers

Plan Your Weekend Today
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
Mariposa: Debbie Croft: Taking a road back in time,
When Yosemite Miwok elders were Paiutes,
Lack of Timber Industry Devastating to Both Local Economy and Forests
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
A burglary was reported on Blue Oak Ridge Road during the afternoon hours and a burglary at the Rite Aid resulted in someone going to the pokey.
Two calls came in from out on Dogtown Road yesterday with the first call about someone trespassing while the second call was about ATV's on the road.
During the later evening hours someone was shooting unsafely
on the Jerseydale Road.
(Night vision scopes?)..
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Another Gorgeous Day:
Saturday's Forecast
88-98 Today: Mostly sunny with the high temps rising three to four degrees from Friday's high temps.
Yosemite: MOSTLY SUNNY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON. HIGHS 83 TO 92 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY... 62 TO 72 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...PARTLY CLOUDY. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING. BREEZY. LOWS 44 TO 54 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...35 TO 45 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
S.J. home inventory remains low
San Joaquin County's median home price dipped slightly in June, but a shortage of inventory still indicates a seller's market, according to figures released Friday.
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California Economy
Local Government Officials Will Gather Next Week to Tackle Rebuilding California From the Ground Up Summit July 17-18, Sacramento
With California in the midst of a severe budget crisis that has magnified the current system's weaknesses, hundreds of local government leaders are coming to Sacramento July 17-18 to explore state governance and fiscal reform. These almost 400 leaders represent California's 7,930 elected city, county and school officials who are committed to reinvigorating California's system of governance to restore efficiency, transparency and accountability.
League of California Cities
AND
State's imports, exports fell in May
The Golden State’s merchandise exports fell by 25.2 percent, while imports decreased by 31.7 percent compared to May of last year, according to an analysis compiled by the University of California Center Sacramento based on data released Friday morning by the U.S. Commerce Department.
Sacramento Business Journal

United States Economy
AIG Examined by New York, Pennsylvania on Prices, Brooks Says
State regulators, brokers and buyers of business coverage “have seen no indications that AIG’s commercial property- casualty insurers are selling coverage at prices inadequate to cover the risk involved,” GAO said. AIG provided the GAO with examples of lost business, GAO said. AIG posted a $99 billion loss last year and needed four federal bailouts to stay afloat.
Bloomberg.com

Friday 7-10-09

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda: 7-14-09
After a two week time-out,  the BOS is back with a very, very long agenda for the day that ends with the continuation of the Public hearing of the Catheys Valley Plan at 6:30 P.M.
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Agenda - 7-14-09

Scoping Open For New Merced River Plan
MERCED RIVER PLAN KICKOFF
Yosemite National Park is opening a new public scoping phase for a new Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan, which will include planning and environmental impact analysis.   Public scoping comments will be accepted through August 29, 2009.  Mariposa News - Scoping Open For New Merced River Plan

Tourism In Northern California:
Tourism businesses look for a vacation from sour economy
The economy and changes in visitor behavior may be the biggest challenges facing tourism in 2009.
Redding Record Searchlight

Yosemite National Park hosts Public Site Visits for the Communication Data Network EA
The purpose of the CDN project is to improve Yosemite’s internal communications system by developing a more reliable, efficient network that can support all the park’s communication needs. The new network will employ modern technology to provide a uniform platform for computer LAN data, emergency radio communications, security and safety video systems, telephony, alarm systems, and data collection.
Mariposa News - Yosemite National Park hosts Public Site Visits for the Communication Data Network EA

National Park Foundation Launches “Your Parks” Video Challenge
Visitors can upload their park videos to www.YourParks.com and explain what America’s national parks mean to them -- How do they inspire you?  Why are they important?  Why should we protect them?  The video that showcases the most inspiring, meaningful and thoughtful story and/or experience will win.
Mariposa News - National Park Foundation Launches “Your Parks” Video Challenge

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Rescued Park Visitors Present Plaque To Ranger
Park visitors James Bachman and Dorothy Hovland, from Huntington Beach, California, returned to Yosemite in late June to present a plaque to park ranger Dan Abbe to show their appreciation for his heroic efforts and saving their lives. Abbe rescued the pair after their truck and trailer slid off of Highway 41 and down a steep hillside. The plaque was presented during a ceremony in Yosemite Valley. Mariposa News - YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Rescued Park Visitors Present Plaque To Ranger

Plan Your Weekend Today
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

(Grand Jury Report 2008-2009
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Juvenile Suicide
AND
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Field of Dreams Sports Complex
AND
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Planning Department and Other Investigations
AND
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Williamson Act and Other Investigations)

In the Area News:
Cool evenings but hot nights: Cousin Jack's Mariposa evenings,
Tuolumne Meadows the soul of Yosemite,
 Mariposa -Utilitarian art,
GOLD! - Shock: a golden tour leader
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
On Circle Drive someone was having problems with a neighbor.
A caller from Lehamite Fall Road reported that someone used a credit card without having permission.
Out on Sebastopol Road someone called in about fraud.
Someone on Evergreen Lane was refusing to leave during the afternoon hours...
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report  
Another Gorgeous Day:
Friday's Forecast
85-95 Today: Sunny with the high temps rising a degree or two from Thursday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY. HIGHS 84 TO 94 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...60 TO 70 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLEAR. LOWS 45 TO 55 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...36 TO 46 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Geithner Urges More Mortgage Help
"We believe there is a general need for servicers to devote substantially more resources to this program for it to fully succeed and achieve the objectives we all share."
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

County Leaders, Advocates Denounce Governor's Misstatements on CalWORKs Program
During a recent press conference, the Governor erroneously said there is "massive waste, fraud and abuse" in the CalWORKs program and "80 percent of California’s welfare recipients aren’t meeting simple work requirements, yet they are receiving weekly their paychecks and their benefits…" In a Los Angeles Time editorial Friday, he also claimed that "only 22% of CalWORKs clients are working or participating in the program, and 78% are doing nothing at all."
CSAC   (.PDF File)
California State Association of Counties

California Economy
Payments to Medi-Cal providers will not be cut, federal court rules
A bill passed by the Legislature last year reduced Medi-Cal compensation by 10%, driving away even more providers from the shrinking ranks still taking state patients and endangering their ability to get treatment, a three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said in unanimously upholding an injunction against the cuts.
Los Angeles Times

United States Economy
U.S. Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index Fell to 64.6 This Month
Unemployment last month rose to the highest level since 1983 while lower home values and rising gasoline costs are eroding Americans’ wealth. The report signals that consumer spending, which accounts for about 70 percent of growth, may remain subdued even as the economy starts to recover.
Bloomberg.com

Thursday 7-09-09

Notice of the Public Review Period for the 2009 - 2014 Mariposa County Housing Element Update
Mariposa News - Mariposa Public Notices

Why Move to Mariposa County?
The Mariposa County Board of Realtors has several reasons listed in the July Real Estate Newsletter
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Costco Member?
Get paid to recycle your electronics.
Costco.com Trade-In & Recycle Program Powered By Gazelle

Sign up to participate in the Yosemite West Defensible Space Project; deadline extended to July 15th

Update on Managed Fires in Yosemite National Park
July 8, 2009
Activity on the Grouse and Harden fires in Yosemite National Park has slowed significantly with the fires reaching the established boundaries that managers planned for the incidents. The Grouse Fire is three miles southwest of Yosemite Valley and north of Glacier Point Road. The Grouse Fire is 3,029 acres and 93 percent contained. The Harden Fire on the north side of the park, west of Harden Lake and northwest of White Wolf is currently 1,661 acres and 95 percent contained.
Mariposa News - Update on Managed Fires in Yosemite National Park July 8, 2009

Tuolumne River Plan Summer Workshops and Open Houses to Take Place in Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park
As part of the continuing public involvement process for the Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (Tuolumne River Plan), all interested members of the public are invited to attend two summer planning workshops. Each will take place at Parsons Lodge in Tuolumne Meadows from 11am-3pm.
Mariposa - Yosemite News - Tuolumne River Plan

Reminder: Today:
Mariposa County Agricultural Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday July 9, 2009 from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at the Government Center
Question and discussion on Ag-Tourism
With Fred Lustenberger, Building Director, Dr. Mosher, Health Director, Dana Hertfelder, Public Works Director and Steve Dahlem, County Counsel.
Also consideration and recommendation to the Planning Commission on Ag-Tourism Zoning Amendment.
090709 Advisory Committee Agenda

Grand Jury Report 2008-2009
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Juvenile Suicide
AND
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Field of Dreams Sports Complex
AND
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Planning Department and Other Investigations
AND
2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Williamson Act and Other Investigations

Plan Your Weekend Today
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

In the Area News:
County retirees losing insurance help,
Foreclosures Continue To Increase In Tuolumne County,
Charges in Yosemite film case dismissed
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
On Live Oak Road some jerk dumped their junk so the county can pick it up.
An hour later another call came in from Live Oak Road about
suspicious circumstances taking place.
(Coincidence?)
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report 
Another Gorgeous Day:
Thursday's Forecast
85-95 Today: Sunny with the high temps rising two to three degrees from Wednesday's high temps.
Yosemite: TODAY...SUNNY. HIGHS 82 TO 91 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...56 TO 66 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...CLEAR. LOWS 42 TO 52 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...32 TO 42 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Falling prices, low rates prod California homebuyers
A new survey of California homebuyers shows that nothing prods behavior like falling prices and low interest rates..
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Governor Holds Press Conference Discussing the CalWORKs Program
..."And some people seem to think that we have only two options as we address this budget deficit; one is to raise taxes, or the other one is to make cuts. But I say we have a third option, which is that we make government run more efficiently and therefore we don’t have to raise the taxes...
As a matter of fact, the numbers here say it all, that almost 80 percent of our welfare recipients are not meeting the simple federal work requirements—80 percent, almost 80 percent. And I want to stress, there are a variety of different things that they have to do in order to comply with these work requirements. It’s not like they have to work. For instance, they can go and have on-the-job training, they can go to school and get some education, they can go to work, they can look for work, or they can go and participate in community service or volunteering. So there are all kinds of options available in order to ring up the 32 hours a week."
Governor Holds Press Conference Discussing the CalWORKs Program

California Economy
California Commissioner Rejects Workers' Comp Bureau Rate Increase Request
Citing testimony that self-insured employers have been able to reduce overall workers' compensation costs, California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizer has rejected the Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau's request for a pure premium rate increase of 23.7 percent.
California Commissioner Rejects Workers' Comp Bureau Rate Increase Request

Wednesday 7-08-09

Mariposa News - 2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Planning Department and Other Investigations

Mariposa News - 2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Williamson Act and Other Investigations

2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Field of Dreams Sports Complex
The Grand Jury report for the Field of Dreams does not mention the consultants name for the project nor the Supervisor who apparently was a member of the church when the idea for this project began but was not a member of the BOS when it came to the vote for the land purchase.
In one of the concluding statements the Grand Jury states that the property is unsuitable for a Sports Complex.
Mariposa News - 2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Field of Dreams Sports Complex

2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Juvenile Suicide
This juvenile suicide occurred up in the North County area of Mariposa County during the month of February 2008. The Grand Jury notes that a Mariposa County Sheriff Deputy was at the residence in November of 2007 and then made three phone calls to the Child Welfare Services without any response from that agency. The Grand Jury in one of it's concluding statements mentioned that they question the procedures, competence and credibility of the Human Services Department.
Mariposa News - 2008-2009- Mariposa County Grand Jury Report Juvenile Suicide

Plan Your Weekend Today
Goldrushcam  Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuolumne County and Calaveras County

Watch for updates today as the SST reports on the 2008-2009 Grand Jury Report.
Some of the items the Grand Jury looked into included (1) A Juvenile Suicide (2) The Field of Dreams (3) Lake Don Pedro Community Services District (4) The Deputy Sheriff (5) Williamson Act Violations (6) The Planning Department and others.

The Mariposa Grand Jury Report for 2008-2009 is out and costs $10.00 to buy it.
It has been circulating for about a week but is still not up on the county website.
Mariposa County, CA - Official Website - Grand Jury Reports
Here is the Calaveras County Grand Jury Report for 2008-2009.
WOW! On the county website
Calaveras County Grand Jury

Help Draft Yosemite Plan 3.0
Wednesday July 22, Mariposa, Government Center 5100 Bullion St., Mariposa, CA 95338 (2nd Floor)
Public hearings will be held on the following dates & locations (all meetings from 4 PM to 8 PM):
Daily Kos: State of the Nation

Reminder: Tomorrow:
Mariposa County Agricultural Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday July 9, 2009 from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at the Government Center
Question and discussion on Ag-Tourism
With Fred Lustenberger, Building Director, Dr. Mosher, Health Director, Dana Hertfelder, Public Works Director and Steve Dahlem, County Counsel.
Also consideration and recommendation to the Planning Commission on Ag-Tourism Zoning Amendment.
090709 Advisory Committee Agenda

Yosemite Fire Update #21 July 7, 2009
The Grouse and Harden fires in Yosemite National Park are nearing the boundaries that managers planned for the incidents. The Grouse Fire is three miles southwest of Yosemite Valley and north of Glacier Point Road. The Grouse Fire is 3,007 acres and 90 percent contained. The Harden Fire on the north side of the park, west of Harden Lake and northwest of White Wolf is currently 1,661 acres and 95 percent contained.
Mariposa News - Yosemite Fire Update #21 July 7, 2009

See the smoke in Yosemite
Yosemite NP Web Camera
AND
Yosemite Association | Live Yosemite Web Cam Views

In the Area News:
Mary Wilson, a Yosemite Miwok Chief?,
Flu victim's family mourns,
Health Department Warns Of Beef Recall
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Also during the very early morning hours someone just abandoned a vehicle on East Whitlock Road.
(Possible scratch-off winner?)
Some jerk dumped their junk out on Usona Road.
Grand theft was reported from 10th Street in Mariposa.
Identity theft was reported from Broadway Street.
A resident on Clouds Rest Road reported a phone scam.
A barking dog on Holtzel Road was driving the neighbors out of their minds..
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report 
Another Gorgeous Day:
Wednesday's Forecast
87-97 Today: Sunny with the high temps rising three to four degrees from Tuesday's high temps.
Yosemite: TODAY...SUNNY. HIGHS 82 TO 91 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...62 TO 72 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...CLEAR. LOWS 45 TO 55 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...33 TO 43 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Time to Tune-Up Your Water Cooler & Check Your Air Conditioner!
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Let's Treat Borrowers Like Adults
 ...And unlike toasters, borrowers have substantial say over whether their loan "explodes." Foreclosures have risen throughout the country, but an epidemic exists only in a handful of areas -- Las Vegas, Phoenix, Miami and the Inland Empire region of California are all places where foreclosure rates are five to 10 times higher than the national average...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

California Economy
Schwarzenegger holds his ground on budget
In his latest efforts to close the staggering $26.3 billion deficit, Schwarzenegger is demanding ever-deeper cuts that Democrats say will shred the social safety net. He is even entertaining what some Democrats regard as a "nuclear option" in California politics - the suspension of Prop. 98, the landmark initiative voters passed in 1988 to ensure that 40 percent of the general fund goes to public schools and community colleges.
Schwarzenegger holds his ground on budget

United States Economy
Consumer Bankruptcy Filings Up Nearly 37 Percent Through First Half of 2009
U.S. consumer bankruptcy filings totaled 675,351 nationwide during the first six months of 2009 (Jan. 1-June 30), a 36.5 percent increase over the 494,610 total consumer filings during the same period a year ago, according to the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI), relying on data from the National Bankruptcy Research Center (NBKRC).
American Bankruptcy Institute

Tuesday 7-07-09

Reminder: Today:
No Mariposa County Board of Supervisors meeting today.
Tuolumne, Calaveras and Madera County will have their meetings today.
Everything must be hunky-dory in Mariposa County.

Mariposa County Fire Department Log
June 27 - July 3, 2009
June 27
EMS call at Briceburg Visitor Center - #21 Midpines· EMS call at Tenaya Lodge - #33 Fish Camp· EMS call on Triangle Road - #29 Lushmeadows· EMS call at McCabe Campground - #21 Midpines·  Vehicle Accident; Motorcycle Down call on Smith Station Road - #31 Greeley Hill, #26 Coulterville Vehicle Accident call on Yosemite Oaks Road - #37 Bootjack, #21 Midpines, #22 MPUD Rescue·  EMS call on Baytree Lane - #27 Mormon Bar· 
Mariposa News - Mariposa County Fire Department Log

California Invasive Weed Awareness Week
July 20 – 26, 2009
They’re out there… waiting to pounce and move…on your tire, in the mud on your shoe, in the soil of the plant you give to a friend or in the sand you bring up from the Valley for your pool. What are they? Invasive noxious weeds and July 20 – 26, 2009, is California Invasive Weed Awareness Week. Who are they? Italian thistle, Klamath Weed, and Yellow Starthistle – just to name three of the top ten noxious weeds in Mariposa County.
Mariposa News - California Invasive Weed Awareness Week July 20 – 26, 2009

Telemedicine Program Begins at JCF’s Northside Clinic
Can you be seen by a specialist physician in Greeley Hill?  Yes you can.  John C. Fremont Healthcare District’s, Northside Clinic in Greeley Hill, now offers patients the consulting services of a variety of specialist physicians through television.
Mariposa News - Telemedicine Program Begins at JCF’s Northside Clinic

The Grouse Fire in Yosemite National Park is approximately 3007 acres. It is located south of Yosemite Valley and north of Glacier Point Rd. The fire continues moving toward the established management boundary and meeting managers' objectives for the incident. Ninety percent of the fire is contained. The objectives include restoring fire dependent forest systems, reducing hazardous fuels accumulation, managing smoke production, protecting wildlife habitat and preserving cultural and natural resources. Please expect brief road delays along Wawona Road, (Hwy 41) and/or Glacier Point Road. Smoky conditions exist late evening and early morning in the park and surrounding areas. All park facilities are open. 373 personnel are fighting the fire. Demobilization of several crews and other resources will begin 7/7/2009.
 

See the smoke in Yosemite
Yosemite NP Web Camera
AND
Yosemite Association | Live Yosemite Web Cam Views

In the Area News:
Federal stimulus money may breathe new life into fire station project,
County Board of Supervisors considers joining gas tax lawsuit,
No Mother Lode Traffic Fatalities Over The Fourth
and more...
Area News

Sheriff Report
Also during the very early morning hours someone just abandoned a vehicle on East Whitlock Road.
(Possible scratch-off winner?)
Some jerk dumped their junk out on Usona Road.
Grand theft was reported from 10th Street in Mariposa.
Identity theft was reported from Broadway Street.
A resident on Clouds Rest Road reported a phone scam.
A barking dog on Holtzel Road was driving the neighbors out of their minds..
MARIPOSA COUNTY DAILY SHERIFF REPORT

Weather Report 
Another Gorgeous Day:
Tuesday's Forecast
84-94 Today: Sunny with the high temps dropping another degree or two from Monday's high temps.
Yosemite: SUNNY...BREEZY. HIGHS 80 TO 90 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...59 TO 69 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
 TONIGHT...CLEAR...BREEZY. LOWS 41 TO 51 IN YOSEMITE VALLEY...32 TO 42 IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.
Time to Tune-Up Your Water Cooler & Check Your Air Conditioner!
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Real Estate News
Lenders avoid redoing loans, Fed concludes
...The Boston Fed’s findings suggest the Obama administration’s major effort to solve the foreclosure crisis by giving the lending industry $75 billion to rewrite delinquent loans to more affordable levels is not likely to work...
Sierra Sun Times Real Estate - Homes and Land For Sale In Mariposa County

Governor Meets with District Attorneys Regarding Combating IHSS Fraud
...So this is why, to root out the fraud and to let the people know that we are fighting for them and we don’t want people to pay taxes and then part of that money is being wasted in fraud and all of this. We cannot continue doing that here. And this is why we urge the legislators, obviously, to go and move forward and to pass legislation that we have proposed where we want to get into some of those things...
Governor Meets with District Attorneys Regarding Combating IHSS Fraud

California Economy
California: Teetering closer to junk
Citing the Golden State's ongoing budget upheaval, Fitch Ratings on Monday downgraded California's long-term debt to BBB, one category above junk bond status. The next step is BBB- before the state's bonds would be considered speculative debt.
California: Teetering closer to junk
AND
Who Killed California's Economy?
The people who preside over these pensions represent the apex of this labor aristocracy. This year two of the biggest public pension funds, CalPERS and CalSTERS, handed out six-figure bonuses to its top executives even though they had lost workers billions of dollars. Almost no one dares suggest trimming the pension funds, particularly Democrats who are often pawns of the public unions. Some reforms on the table, like gutting the two-thirds majority required to pass the budget, would effectively hand these unions keys to the treasury.
Forbes.com